0 LADAKH Overrun by travellers in the summers, at least in the well- known tourist spots, Ladakh in winter is a special treat both as a visual treat and for being less explored when snow and sun show up next to each other. Though many parts of the recently sanctioned Union Territory will be snowbound and inaccessible and most of the hotels will be shut, for the adventurous there will always be some areas to explore, especially those who are interested in wildlife and wish to seek the elusive Snow Leopards and other wildlife and birds of the trans-Himalayas. Winter is also the time when some of the shepherd communities come down from the higher altitudes with their livestock to escape the harsh winter, mainly sheep-rearing nomads who lead an interesting life depending on sheep rearing and weaving as they move from place to place. Another reason to be in Ladakh in the winter is to be a part of some of the winter festivals like Losar and the Oracle Festival and games like ice skating. Connect with your travel agent to help them curate a program that allows you to explore Ladakh at your own pace without the crowds. Just before the region transitions to winter, is the time when myriad colours light up the landscape as the poplars, willows and various wild shrubs take on fall hues. Closer to spring is also the time when the apricot flowers bloom in gently blushing clusters. Where to Stay: One of the best hotels in Leh, The Grand Dragon Ladakh. is on the edge of the main town. A 15-minute drive from Leh Airport, the property is a family-run standalone hotel with the best suites in the entire region. The Grand Dragon boasts a multi-cuisine restaurant and a vibrant atmosphere that is perfect both for families and friends travelling together. For couples celebrating events, the hotel’s top suites are an other- worldly indulgence. On request, the hotel can organize close-by excursions to the Indus confluence, LAMO and Central Asian Museum with a guide, besides visits to monasteries that are open at this time.

0 Train rides are not just another mode of travel, rather a very important part of your journey that doesn’t end with the destination. Here are the 5 most magical train rides in India that you need to experience at least once in life! Kalka to Shimla There are about 8 trains that ply to and forth Kalka to Shimla. Wbu is this train ride so beautiful you ask? This unique track route is about 5 hours long, depending on which train you take, and the entire route is overflowing with the beauty of the Himalayan forests and sceneries. Hubli to Madgaon This travel route can be covered in almost 5 hours depending on the currently active 4 trains plying to and fro. This route is covered in bewitching waterfalls and forests that just rekindle the spirit! Bangalore to Kanyakumari The only two trains plying from Bangalore to Kanyakumari range between a travel time of 13 hours to 18 hours. This scenic route is nothing short of spectacular scenery and picturesque views. Chennai to Rameshwaram The estimated travel time via train between Chennai and Rameshwaram is somewhere between 10 hours and 12 hours, depending on the two trains plying back and forth. The travel route will amaze you and leave you awestruck with the magical beach views and the crystal blue waters! Nilgiri mountain railways This locomotive has the steepest tracks in entire Asia, and travels between the greeny hills and sparkling peaks.

0 Travelling is all fun and games until you’re in a situation that weren’t prepared for. These hacks and tips will help you travel safely without anything holding you back! Keep copies of important documents handy It is very easy to lose your original documents while travelling, especially if you take a busy route or commute. Keep offline copies of your important and most necessary documents on your phone with easy access. Download offline Google Translate One common mistake any traveller is bound to do is forgetting to download the offline version of Google Translate. There are very high chances that your network fails to work where you’re unfamiliar with the regional languages. Carry safety essentials Always carry pepper spray and a pocket knife just to keep yourself safe from being mugged or attacked by stray animals. Keep local emergency numbers handy It is extremely important to keep the local emergency numbers like Police, Fire station, nearest Hospital, Forest helpline handy.

0 A bespoke private pool villa resort situated in North Goa has launched the highly anticipated ‘Baale Private Members’ Club’. This exclusive club marks the debut of Goa’s first luxury landmark private members’ club curated for the discerning few who share the adoration of bespoke experiences, quality lifestyle and holistic well- being. From unparalleled restaurants and bars, experiential wellness workshops to connoisseur wine tastings and innovativegastronomical experiences, including offering multiple venues to members to host private get celebrations, the club’s one-of-a-kind experiences are curated with unwavering integrity and meticulous focus on indulgence, exclusiveness and privacy. This sanctum provides a space where its members are pampered, indulgence is the norm, and luxury is a promise. Priced at INR 1,75,000 + GST for individuals and INR 2,50,000 + GST for a couple per annum, a truly never-ending party to christen Goa’s newest icon, the Baale’s Private Members’ Club promises to inspire and unite its members, ignite personal passions and spark debate.