Peaks of Uttar Pradesh

 Though more known for its grasslands and forests and iconic Indian structures, such as the Taj Mahal, Uttar Pradesh nonetheless contains 282 named mountains. The highest of these peaks is Amsot, at around 943m/3,093ft above sea level with 341m/1,119ft of prominence, and the most prominent is Kotadei Hill, with a prominence of 361m/1,184ft and a height of 605m/1,985ft.

The most notable feature of Uttar Pradesh, however, might be its rivers, with more than 30 spread throughout the land, resulting in rich and fertile valleys and thus intensive cultivation, as well as forests webbed by river streams.

.Highest Peaks in Uttar Pradesh

1) Amsot(957 m) 

2) Ranikothi Pahar(646m) 

3) Kotadei Hill(605m) 

4) Basai Pathar(602m) 

5) Kari Pathar(596m) 

6) Manjpara Pahar(559m) 

7) Jharara Pahar(559m) 

8) Patna(557m) 

9) Richhna Pahar(548m) 

10) Kutka Pathar(545m)

Taj Hotel and Convention-Agra Uttar Pradesh

 Agra’s newest landmark, the Taj Hotel & Convention Centre, lies a short walk away from the Eastern Gate of this fabled monument. This modern 5 star hotel near Taj Mahal reimagines all that Agra can be.This luxury hotel in Agra has 239 plush rooms including 12 lavish suites and one presidential suite to whisk guests away into a world of repose.

A refreshing rooftop infinity pool with magical views of the Taj Mahal, an invigorating spa and a buzzing fitness centre are at hand to rejuvenate every guest.

There is also an abundance of dining options to delight the epicurean.The Tea Lounge welcomes guests with a wide selection of rare teas, gourmet coffees, freshly baked breads and light bites.

The Liquid Lounge has an extensive wine list and a vast collection of Single Malts.

And Infini - The Sky Lounge, enlivens evenings with inventive cocktails and a live DJ. Guests can dance the night away here under the silvery gaze of the Taj Mahal.These event spaces & meeting venues in Agra have been designed to truly do justice to those annual sales meets or to big fat Indian weddings.

The luxury hotel also provides the perfect vantage point to take in the many riches of Agra.

Facilities offered here include-
239 guestrooms
Daily housekeeping
5 restaurants and bar/lounge
Full-service spa
Outdoor pool
Breakfast available
Free children's club
Health club
Conference center
Airport shuttle
Terrace
24-hour front desk
Free WiFi and free parking

For Families-

Free cribs/infant beds

Children's pool

Children's club (free)

Supervised childcare/activities (free)

Rollaway/extra beds (surcharge)

Connecting/adjoining rooms available

Arriving/leaving
Check-in time 2:00 PM-midnight
Check-out time is noon
Express check-out

Restrictions related to your trip
This destination may have COVID-19 travel restrictions in place, including specific restrictions for lodging. Check any national, local and health advisories for this destination before you book.
Due to COVID-19, this property’s food and beverage options may be limited.

Children
Up to 2 children (5 years old and younger) stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding
Free children's club

Pets
No pets or service animals allowed

Internet
Free WiFi  and wired Internet access in public areas
Free WiFi  and wired Internet access in rooms
Transfers
Airport shuttle (available 24 hours)*
Train station pick-up*
Parking
Free onsite self parking
Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking on site
Height restrictions apply for onsite parking.

Rooms Available-
1) Deluxe Suite features a generous living room perfect for hosting intimate get-togethers with friends and family and a spacious bedroom.

2) Luxury Suite
The Luxury Suite is for those who don’t like to be hemmed in. Encompassing a generous 80 square metres, this suite comes with separate living and dining areas, a 4 fixture washroom with standalone bathtub, a separate powder room, a walk-in wardrobe and a writing table.

3) Presidential Suite
The Presidential Suite is every bit as impressive as its name suggests. Encompassing an area of 140 Sq Mt (the size of a medium-sized apartment), this suite features a luxurious bedroom, a vast living area with an 8-seater table, a bathroom with a sunken bathtub and a walk-in rain shower, a guest powder room and a separate walk-in wardrobe. Every room in the suite comes with a view of the pool. The suite also opens out onto private lawns that are perfect to welcome soft mornings and balmy evenings.

4) Superior Room
Our superior rooms exude an air of eminence.

5) Deluxe Room Taj Mahal View
These are Deluxe Rooms with an added allure: shimmering views of the Taj Mahal from our luxury hotel rooms. You can feel the aura of the world’s most beloved monument when you stay here. These swish rooms also feature modern furnishings and amenities. And luxurious bathrooms that with a standing bath tub and walk-in rain shower. 

Here are some of the pictures-

Banquet halls for functions.. 

Location-
Taj East Gate Rd, Taj Nagari Phase 1, Telipara, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001

Contact-0562 233 5555

Aadrai Jungle Trek, Malshej Ghat

 Hill station - Malshej Ghat
District - Pune
State - Maharashtra
Event - Aadrai Jungle trek
Best time for the trek - Monsoon and post monsoon 
Distance of trail - 14 - 15 km 
Expected time to complete the trek - 4 -5  hours
Starting point - Khireshwar Village
Trail Landmarks - 

• Kulu Waterfall

• Nageshwar temple

• View of Malshej ghat, Harishchandragad, Konkankada

• Pimpalgaon Joga Dam

• Pushpawati river

• Ajoba hill fort

• Naneghat

• Jivdhan Chawan fort

• Darkoba peak

• Buddhist caves 

• Konkan kada 

• Taramati peak

Malshej Ghat located in the Sahyadri ranges, Maharashtra is surrounded by deep and dense forests. The forests are home to quite a few wild animals and exotic birds. There is great variety in the flora as well.

One of the most popular activities preferred by the trekkers and adventure enthusiasts is the Aadrai ( अड़राई )Forest Trek.

It is believed that this trek was discovered by mistake by a local villager who lost his way and  ended up in these uncharted locales.

This forest trek is full of fun, adventure and thrill and one of the most sought after jungle treks in the state of Maharashtra. The best season would be monsoon and post-monsoon when the jungle is lush, fresh and full of greenery and the waterfalls on the way are active. Though due to the height and sheer denseness of the trees sunlight hardly reaches the ground. This makes the weather cool and pleasant.

The trek goes through the forest and due to the elevation, the views of the valleys, mountains and peaks are breathtaking. The trail is fairly easy and accessible, though getting a local guide or an experienced leader would be advisable so as not to lose the way.  The call of the various birds fill the air while the gentle wind blows all around.

There are many small and big waterfalls on the way but the biggest and the most  majestic Kalu Waterfall falls from a height of 1200 feet. It is the highest one in this region. Getting soaked and frolicking in the water is one of the highlights of the trek. If it rains, it adds to the thrill. Though the monsoon season makes the surroundings misty and foggy due to the presence of clouds and decreases visibility. Utmost caution must be taken.

Taking one's food items and enough water is a must. Goes without saying that the trekkers dress appropriately as per the weather conditions with sensible tough grip shoes / sneakers. It's always better to go for group treks instead of solo ones. 

In conclusion, this trek has it all - forest, animals, birds, waterfalls, rain, wind, panoramic views of the surrounding Sahyadri peaks and valleys and various other landmarks of Malshej ghat region.

There are innumerable trekking organisers from both Mumbai and Pune among other places. 

They provide the novice trekker with necessary guidance and the support system for a successful and safe experience.

Picture credit  - Shrihari Shastry

Fatehpur Sikri-Uttar Pradesh

 The District Fatehpur is lying in between two big holy rivers of India Ganga and Yamuna.

Here, a rich period of Mughal history comes alive through the ornate mix of marble and sandstone.Like the Agra Fort, this city is a fortress containing a series of royal palaces, harem, courts and the sprawling Jama Masjid mosque. There is reference about Asani and Bhitaura, nearby places to this city, in Lord Cunnigham’s writings when he discusses about the remnants of  Vedic times. Proofs of Chinese traveller Huen Tsang having visited Asani has also been found there.

 A number of archaeological findings from around 800 BC, Gupta Period, Kushana period and Maurya period have been unearthed all over the district of Fatehpur, which makes this region a place of great interest to tourists.

Cuisines of Fatehpur-
Fatehpur is very similar as those of any north Indian recipe preparation. Wheat being the staple food in Fatehpur hot and tasty chapatis for a main dish in Fatehpur locals meals. But, this City of Victory is also important to foodies, with Agra and Fatehpur Sikri one of the best places in the country and try the best of Mughlai Food, there’s plenty of places in Fatehpur Sikri that offers the best of Mughlai Cuisine.

So, here’s a list of the best among the best in Fatehpur Sikri to quench your Mughlai cravings.

1. Mughal Garden

2. Sher-e-Punjab Hotel and Restaurant

3. Lake View Restaurant

4. Jodha Restaurant

5. Joshi Restaurant

Beyond the beauty of Agra’s Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri is another feather on the cap of the Mughal Emperors. Once considered to be the capital of the Mughal Empire, this medieval city holds a special place in the history of the Mughals. Let's witness the beauty of this city-

1) Jama Masjid

Jama Masjid is considered as one of the country’s largest mosque which was recognised as a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1986. The interior of the mosque is decorated with glazed tiles, inlaid stones and also paintings which are intricately carved with the Holy Quran.

Timings: 6AM-6PM
Distance from the city: 1 kms
Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians and INR 260 for Foreigners

2) Buland Darwaza

Also called the Gate of Magnificence, the Buland Darwaza is the main entrance to enter the Jama Masjid complex located in Fatehpur Sikri.Rising at a height of 54m tall, this 15 storied gateway is the entrance to the city of Fatehpur Sikri. The most beautiful thing about this gateway is that the pillars and archway is inscribed with Holy Quran and Persian inscription.

Timings: 7AM-6PM
Entry Fee: INR 20 and INR 260 Foreigners

3) Birbal’s Palace

The Birbal palace was built around the time of 1571 which was the official residence of Raja Birbal who was Akbar’s Hindu Prime Minister.This palace is the true depiction of the Mughal architecture which can be witnessed through intricate carvings, surreal jharokhas and also elevated floral patterns.

Timings: 7AM-6PM (Closed on Friday)
Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians, INR 260 for foreigners.

Image credits-Google

Back Waters of Kerala, the best tourism of India

 Backwaters - Lakes that are formed when the sea water collects closer to the beach by the to and fro motion of waves from the sea. These not only form lakes - whcih are fresh water lakes, but also form low barrier islands which are natural beauty. The manmade and natural backwaters help in and water flowing back into the land mass. Though these are formed by the motion of waves, these backwaters have either little or no current.  

Pic from Indian Holiday

In Kerala there are lots of backwater lakes and they are called as Kayals. The land in and around these Kayals are rich in flora and fauna. Backwaters in Kerala are a network of 1500km of canals that are both natural and manmade. There are 38 rivers and 5 big lakes in this network.  

The  backwaters of Kerala are either stretch of canals and lagoons and lakes that are located parallel to the coast of Arabian sea. These backwaters are the major tourist attractions of Kerala state and is one of the kind in the entire world. Cruising in these backwater is a wonderful experienceand they are safe even for the solo travellers. The house boats have crews to help the travellers.  Apart from the cruise, these backwaters also attract tourists for the annual Snake Boat race held between the months of June and September. Swimming is prohibited in most backwaters as they are not safe due to the incoming water into these.

Apart from the tourism support these back waters also form an economical means of transport and are helpful in local trades as they are easy to navigate than land. The industry that surrounds the back water are fishing and fish curing. Agriculture also thrive and survive around these backwaters. 

Different back water destinations in Kerala, India. 

Alleppey Backwaters.

Kozhikode Backwaters.

Kuttanad Backwaters.

Ashtamudi Backwaters.

Thrissur Backwaters.

Kavvayi Backwater.

Padanna Backwaters.

Sasthamkotta Backwaters.

Peer Chattershah

 PEER CHATTERSHAH, KATHUA DISTRICT, JAMMU AND KASHMIR

Peer Chattershah is a pious site that is situated at a distance of about 13 kilometers away from Kathua District in Parole Village. The Peer Chattershah is also famous for Nagri Parole, and a holy spring is located very close to the shrine (bolies). People trusted that the spring has medicinal properties, which can cure and heal all types of skin ailments when people take bath in the spring which is near the shrine (bolies).

(Source- nativeplanet.com)

Trident Agra-Uttar Pradesh

 Near the Taj Mahal, Trident, Agra is one of the best hotels in the city. Beautifully landscaped gardens and water fountains welcome you to this charming leisure hotel. Built in local red stone, reminiscent of the Mughal era, the hotel features 135 tastefully appointed rooms and suites, which overlook the central courtyard and gardens. 

Facilities At Trident Agra-

•Business Centre

•Meeting rooms with audio-visual •equipment

•Travel desk

•Laundry and valet service

•Rooms for guests with special needs

•Doctor on call

•Babysitter on call

•Kids club

•Experienced travel guides

Compliment Facilities-

•Tea and coffee maker

•Currency exchange

•Car park and car wash

•In-room safe

•Dental and shaving kit

•Shoe shine facility

•Shoe horn

•Slippers

•Iron and iron board

•Sewing kit

•Rest rooms for guests with special needs

•Wheelchairs

•High speed internet for up to 4 devices

•Left luggage facility

Foods and Drink

•American

• Chinese

• Indian

• Italian

• Japanese

• Pizza

• Thai

• Asian

• International

Dietary options

• Halal

• Vegetarian

• Vegan

• Gluten-free

• Dairy-free

Public transport

Rail Stations Yamuna Bridge

4.2 km

Closest airports

Agra Airport

10 km

Advantages During Covid times-

•Hotel Staff and Guest's body temperature monitored at hotel entry points. Refused entry if the temperature is above 99.1 ( F ) degree Fahrenheit.

•Hotels are advised to keep sanitizer in room and face mask in every room for guest use.

•Every hotel staff to have Aarogya Setu App as advised by Govt.

•Every staff member wears face masks and gloves at all service times.

•Hotel rooms/floors and public areas are cleaned with hospital-grade disinfectants.

•The hotel has In-Room Dining options available with minimal contact service and disposable/sanitized crockery & cutlery.

•Hotel staff ensures to maintain social distancing at all times.

•Every guest's travel records are maintained as per local and central Government of India guidelines.

•While working with supplier and contractors hotel complies with health advisories and Government guidelines. 

Nearby Landmarks-

Distance Name of place

0.09 km Pizza Hut Fatehabad Road

0.16 km Axis Bank

0.16 km Mcdonalds Tourist Complex

0.18 km Pizza Hut Tourist Complex

0.29 km Hotel Howard Park Plaza

0.52 km Domino'S Pizza

0.52 km Pizza Hut Bansal Nagar

0.62 km Hdfc Bank

0.69 km Shopping Emporium

0.71 km Shahjahan Garden

0.8 km All India Radio Station

0.81 km M.I.G Shaheed Nagar

0.86 km Saga Art Gallery

0.89 km Central Bank Of India

0.89 km Golf Course

0.91 km Saaga Emporium

0.94 km Taj Mahal South Gate

0.97 km Taj Mahal West Gate

0.99 km Victoria Park

1.01 km Shilpgram Marble Market

Address-

Fatehabad Road Near TDI Mall, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001

Contact-Trident, Agra

T. +91-11-23890555 / +91 562 223 5000

F. +91 562 233 1812