Popular destinations among Indian travellers in 2016

Figures from the past years’ data to reveal the top seven destinations that may attract experimental Indian travellers in 2016

As 2015 passed by, travel enthusiasts around the country have started looking for destinations to explore in the new year. Travel search engine Skyscanner has collected the figures from the past years’ data to reveal the top seven destinations that may attract experimental Indian travellers next year.

Commenting on the findings, Ravish Doctor, manager, Growth Strategy, Skyscanner India, said, “With a significant growth in outbound travel to less explored cities, it appears that Indians are keen to make the transition from a wide-eyed tourist to a more receptive traveller. Based on our data, Indian travellers are eyeing for roads less travelled in countries that have been traditional destination magnets. For 2016, while Tropical Asia continues to be a favourite holiday region for Indians, destinations which are extremely rich in culture, traditions and history such as Russia is coming to the fore.”

Laos

With a significant growth of 934 per cent, Savannakhet, Laos is among the fastest emerging destinations that Indians are looking to explore in 2016. Laos offers some of the best lements in Southeast Asia. Savannakhet’s pristine environment against the Mekong River, is home to diverse cultures where the Lao people act as welcoming hosts.

Thailand

Thailand continues to lure Indian travelers to its shores with Trang, Buri Ram, Ranong and Pai (Mae Hong Son) featuring in the top seven hot spots for 2016. Trang competes with Krabi in terms of offshore islands, white-sand beaches and inland limestone mountains. There are dive sites, national parks, waterside caves and villages. Buri Ram, the city of sandstone sanctuaries, where the Ancient Khmer ruins are commonplace, Phanom Rung is one of the best preserved Khmer temple complexes in Southeast Asia.

Ranong

Known for its mangrove forests and hot springs, also has street food and local traditions is appreciated by travelers. On the other hand, Pai (Mae Hong Son), a town with a strong Burmese influence, is well-known among backpackers for its laid back atmosphere. Home to several waterfalls and natural hot springs, Pai lies at the foot of the mountains which tourists use as a base for trekking.

Russia

Located on the Yenisei River, Krasnoyarsk is one of the most popular tourist places for Indian travelers. Known for its nature and often referred to as the most beautiful city in Siberia, Krasnoyarsk offers many hiking opportunities in the nearby forests. City of the Tsars, St. Petersburg is said to be a treasure trove of art and culture, home to perhaps the best collection of Russian art in the world. 

To Know more about Crossworld Holidays, visit - www.crossworldholidays.com

Contact Details.

Crossworld Holidays Tours & Travels (IATA approved)

Address : Grounf Floor, Ram Smruti,
Opp. to New English School,
Ram Maruti Road, Cross Road,
Thane (W) - 400602, India
Tel:+91 - 22 - 4038 4747
Fax:+91 - 22 - 2542 3427
E-mail: crossh@gmail.com

Shopping in Singapore for big spenders

From world-class brand showrooms with gleaming glass facades, shopping in Singapore is never a dull affair. Being a world-class shopping destination, the city is known for housing an extensive array of stylish local and international brands. Swanky interiors, designer brands, incomparable shopping experiences and the trendiest merchandise make these places perfect for a much needed retail fix. Here is your guide to the top luxury shopping destinations in Singapore.

The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands 

A shopper could dive in and never resurface in this Singapore mall dedicated to world’s most famous luxury brands. The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is one of Singapore’s largest luxury shopping malls offering a mix of international brands, emerging labels and concept stores. Located in the heart of the Central Business District, the mall’s eye-catching building features a contemporary design, with breathtaking views of the Marina Bay skyline. A man-made canal runs through the mall’s retail belt, where shoppers can take a relaxing boat ride through the premises.

Paragon Shopping Center 

Singapore’s Paragon Shopping Centre epitomises the city’s fanaticism for luxury products and quality services. A prominent mall in the heart of Orchard Road, Paragon is the preferred choice for many up-market shoppers. With six levels of fashion and luxury boutiques, sports and lifestyle shops, restaurants and cafés, Paragon offers a complete shopping experience for tourists and locals alike. The mall houses luxury retailers like Miu Miu, Gucci, Alfred Dunhill, Armani Exchange and Miss Sixty. It’s not just a fashion lover’s paradise - there is also a mixture of other labels here, including sportswear brands like Nike, Adidas and Pan West.

Mandarin Gallery 

Situated in the heart of Singapore's premier shopping belt, Orchard Road, Mandarin Gallery endorses the island's reputation as the shopping capital of the region. Home to a plethora of international luxury stores such as Dolce & Gabbana and Emporio Armani, the Mandarin Gallery is a high-end retail space spread across four levels of the Mandarin Orchard Hotel—featuring international fashion designers, lifestyle shops, as well as restaurants and bars. The storefront, with its undulating curvy facade and all-glass spaces, displays brand names that can only be found here, such as Y-3, Bread and Butter and Mauboussin. The Mandarin Gallery is also an ideal place to relish some delicious food. Try Wild Honey for an eclectic range of Asian and International fare - their sumptuous all-day breakfasts are quickly becoming the talk of the town.

Takashimaya, Ngee Ann City

Singapore’s favourite one-stop luxury shopping precinct, Takashimaya houses everything from fashion and food to household supplies and bookstores. Head right in, and you’ll find a sprawling swimming pool as well as a swanky fitness club. One of the many Japanese establishments in Singapore, Takashimaya caters to affluent customers, with global brands like Armani, Burberry, Christofle and Harrods. Shopping enthusiasts will swoon at the variety of products on offer, ranging from sportswear, crafts and stationery to cosmetics, home décor and music. Head to the mall’s basement for a quick bite, and sample a plethora of Chinese, Korean, Indonesian, Thai and Japanese dishes.

ION Orchard 

Built to resemble what might appear to be a futuristic space voyager, ION Orchard is a monster-like monolith spanning eight floors. It envelopes a whopping 333 stores, where you can shop, dine and drink all under the same roof. Those with a big budget need not look any further, the stores here cater specifically to the discerning shopper.

To Know more about Crossworld Holidays, visit - www.crossworldholidays.com

Contact Details.

Crossworld Holidays Tours & Travels (IATA approved)

Address : Grounf Floor, Ram Smruti,
Opp. to New English School,
Ram Maruti Road, Cross Road,
Thane (W) - 400602, India
Tel:+91 - 22 - 4038 4747
Fax:+91 - 22 - 2542 3427
E-mail: crossh@gmail.com

Top 10 Indian destinations searched on Google in 2015

Here's the list of the top 10 destinations in India that were searched on Google in the year 2015.

2015 has been an eventful year for more reasons than one. But for travellers, it has proved to be a really interesting one with people looking for more new and exciting places to explore. We bring you the travel destinations in India that were searched the most on Google this year. And if you haven't made your year-end travel plans yet, you might like to consider one of these.

1. Udaipur

Sitting at the top of the most searched Indian destinations on Google, 'the city of lakes' is also known for its wooded Aravalli hills, glorious palaces, temples, havelis and some really colourful streets in the city's oldest quarters. It was way back in 1829 that Colonel James Tod of the East India Company had named Udaipur 'the most romantic spot on the continent of India.'

2. Nainital

Nainital is counted among one of the most sought after weekend getaways by Delhiites. The place is known for its beautiful Naini Lake, which is set amidst the towering peaks of the Kumaon mountains. On a clear day, travellers are blessed with views of the famous Nanda Devi Massif from the upper reaches of Nainital. Sattal and a few other tourist attractions are also located close to this place.

3. Darjeeling

Darjeeling is one hill station in the country which offers most of the good things that a mountain destination can offer. Set a midst lush green hills, the place is known for wide stretches of tea gardens and views of some of the greatest mountain ranges in the world, including that of Kanchenjunga.

4. Kashmir

Words always fall short when you talk about a place like Kashmir. The Mughals had aptly called it 'Paradise on Earth' and the title still holds true for the place. While there are huge meadows and snowfields in places like Pahalgam and Gulmarg, there's Dal Lake in Kashmir which offers with 360-degree views of the enchanting mountain.

5. Mahabaleshwar

This quaint hill station has been a favorite among Mumbaikars for years. Known for its marvelous viewpoints and strawberry farms, this place has been a favorite among a lot of Bollywood filmmakers as well. Looking at the multiple shades of greens on the mountain walls and occasional waterfalls finding their place through the hills is a treat for any traveler.

6. Kodaikanal

Lofty mountains, dainty valleys and beautiful waterfalls make Kodaikanal one of the most scenic hill towns in the country. Often for Indians looking to travel to the southern part of the country, this place tops the list of preferences. Kodaikanal, which literally means "The Gift of the Forest," is also a favorite among honeymooners.

7. Varanasi  

  

Varanasi, once known as Benares, is one of the oldest cities in the world. In spite of being crowded, the place is a traveler's favorite because of its mystical ghats by the River Ganga and an atmosphere which is made colorful by the huge number of pilgrims that visit this place throughout the year. 

8. Visakhapatnam

 

 Once a part of the Kalinga territory, Visakhapatnam holds a lot of historical significance. A favorite among the history buffs, there are a lot of amazing Buddhist relics spread across the place. Some of the most popular tourist attractions of the place include Borra Caves, Dolphin's Nose, Kondakarla Ava beach, Araku Valley, Matsyadarshini Aquarium, Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary.

9. Lansdowne

 Located in the Pauri-Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, Landowne sits quietly at an altitude of 1700 metres. Another Delhi favorite, this is one hill station in India which is still less-crowded and not overdeveloped. The quaint town has two churches belonging to the pre-Independence era a major Hindu temple. If you are looking for a quiet getaway to the hills, this is the place for you.

10. Ladakh

Even though it's at the last position of Google searches this year, Ladakh is one destination in India that travelers simply can't ignore. Known for its spectacular arid mountains and picturesque Buddhist monasteries, a road trip to this place proves to be one of the most memorable trips taken by anyone with a love for travel.

To Know more about Crossworld Holidays, visit - www.crossworldholidays.com

Contact Details.

Crossworld Holidays Tours & Travels (IATA approved)

Address : Grounf Floor, Ram Smruti,
Opp. to New English School,
Ram Maruti Road, Cross Road,
Thane (W) - 400602, India
Tel:+91 - 22 - 4038 4747
Fax:+91 - 22 - 2542 3427
E-mail: crossh@gmail.com

Popular destinations among Indian travellers in 2016

Figures from the past years’ data to reveal the top seven destinations that may attract experimental Indian travellers in 2016

As 2015 passed by, travel enthusiasts around the country have started looking for destinations to explore in the new year. Travel search engine Skyscanner has collected the figures from the past years’ data to reveal the top seven destinations that may attract experimental Indian travellers next year.

Commenting on the findings, Ravish Doctor, manager, Growth Strategy, Skyscanner India, said, “With a significant growth in outbound travel to less explored cities, it appears that Indians are keen to make the transition from a wide-eyed tourist to a more receptive traveller. Based on our data, Indian travellers are eyeing for roads less travelled in countries that have been traditional destination magnets. For 2016, while Tropical Asia continues to be a favourite holiday region for Indians, destinations which are extremely rich in culture, traditions and history such as Russia is coming to the fore.”

Laos

With a significant growth of 934 per cent, Savannakhet, Laos is among the fastest emerging destinations that Indians are looking to explore in 2016. Laos offers some of the best lements in Southeast Asia. Savannakhet’s pristine environment against the Mekong River, is home to diverse cultures where the Lao people act as welcoming hosts.

Thailand

Thailand continues to lure Indian travellers to its shores with Trang, Buri Ram, Ranong and Pai (Mae Hong Son) featuring in the top seven hot spots for 2016. Trang competes with Krabi in terms of offshore islands, white-sand beaches and inland limestone mountains. There are dive sites, national parks, waterside caves and villages. Buri Ram, the city of sandstone sanctuaries, where the Ancient Khmer ruins are commonplace, Phanom Rung is one of the best preserved Khmer temple complexes in Southeast Asia.

Ranong, known for its mangrove forests and hot springs, also has street food and local traditions is appreciated by travellers. On the other hand, Pai (Mae Hong Son), a town with a strong Burmese influence, is well-known among backpackers for its laid back atmosphere. Home to several waterfalls and natural hot springs, Pai lies at the foot of the mountains which tourists use as a base for trekking.

Russia

Located on the Yenisei River, Krasnoyarsk is one of the most popular tourist places for Indian travellers. Known for its nature and often referred to as the most beautiful city in Siberia, Krasnoyarsk offers many hiking opportunities in the nearby forests. City of the Tsars, St. Petersburg is said to be a treasure trove of art and culture, home to perhaps the best collection of Russian art in the world. 

To Know more about Crossworld Holidays, visit - www.crossworldholidays.com

Contact Details.

Crossworld Holidays Tours & Travels (IATA approved)

Address : Grounf Floor, Ram Smruti,
Opp. to New English School,
Ram Maruti Road, Cross Road,
Thane (W) - 400602, India
Tel:+91 - 22 - 4038 4747
Fax:+91 - 22 - 2542 3427
E-mail: crossh@gmail.com

10 best places to visit in India during January

From Kochi to Ahmedabad and Jaipur to Hampi: here are the 10 places you should be visiting in January.

Come January 4 and all the excitement that has led up to the New Year’s Eve comes crashing down. But don’t let the lack of parties discourage you from traveling the country. India with its varied cultures and religions has enough and more to do every month and January is no different. So get rid of your January blues and head out to these ten places to experience something new.

Kochi
Kochi Carnival may well be drawing to a close on January 1 but that doesn’t mean you don’t have reasons to visit Kochi. The Kochi Muziris Biennale that had its inaugural edition in 2012 is underway even as you read this and quite frankly is reason enough to visit the coastal town of Kerala. Witness groundbreaking work of art or take a walk in Kochi’s old Jewish Town or simply shop till you drop for gold and clothes, Kochi has a way of keeping you occupied in a way that will drive your blues away. And if you’ve just got married, we’ve even planned out this Kerala honeymoon package just for you!

Kochi- Muziriz Biennale was started in 2012 when the Government of Kerala approached artists like Bose Krishnamachari and Riyaz Komu to promote contemporary art in the state. Kochi- Muziriz Biennale 2016 will have an array of global artists who will be addressing the audiences at the third edition of the Biennale. 

 Goa
You don’t need a reason to visit Goa really but India’s favorite beach state has a lot going for it even after the wild 31st parties have wound down. Take a walk along the beaches or simply detox yourself by participating in the India Yoga Festival (January 4 to January 8) where 25 renowned yoga teachers will teach you to be one with yourself.

Ahmedabad
The city may not be on your list of places to visit in January (or really any other month of the year) but Ahmedabad throws a pretty awesome kite flying party each year around Makar Sankranti. The festival marks the end of winter and the city comes alive as do its skies that are dotted by kites of all shapes, sizes and colors. Salman Khan couldn’t resist the temptation of visiting it a few years ago, we don’t see how mere mortals such as us can! Visit it already!

Kovalam
The tiny town of Kovalam that is more a suburb of Kerala’s capital Thiruvananthapuram has more than its share of five star hotels and should most definitely be on your list of places to visit in January for several reasons. For one the weather is great as are its beaches that are also surfing friendly. But come mid-January and Kovalam will host Gramam, an annual festival whose aim it is to revive the cultural traditions of Kerala. Partake in traditional Keralan cuisine and watch the locals who step out in their ethnic best during this time if the year.

Jaipur
There is something quite overwhelming to find a well-preserved historic monument at every turn or 19th century havelis dotting the landscape or a fort that stands on the outskirts of the city, almost as if guarding it against an impending invasion. Jaipur is one of our favorite destinations in India but January really is the best time to visit it since you will be in good company of authors — everyone from bestselling ones to Nobel Laureates and Man Booker Prize winners among others address the audience will be attending the Jaipur Literature Festival from January 21 to January 25.

Sirpur
Chhattisgarh has only recently begun to open up to tourists and is becoming more and more savvy with the ways of the Internet. Sirpur in Chattisgarh is one such place that is embracing tourists more warmly than ever before. The archaeological remains of Sirpur are the state’s pride and its Buddha Viharas are older than those in Nalanda. If history doesn’t interest you, you also have the Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary that will keep your little ones interested. But the one big reason you should visit Sirpur is its National Dance and Music Festival that was started in 2013 as part of promotion for tourism in Chhattisgarh. The festival is expected to host several legends including Pt Birju Maharaj and Pt Hariprasad Chaurasia among several others.

Madurai
You don’t necessarily have to be religious to visit Madurai. It is, of course, a center of pilgrimage but even the atheist in you would stop to admire the very impressive Meenakshi temple that lies at the heart of the towns’ economy. Madurai itself is some 4,000 years old and has several temples and buildings whose architecture reminds you that it has always been an important town for several millennia. Take a walk through the old city that offers a glimpse into life in another era but also time your visit so you can witness Teppothsavam, the festival during which Meenakshi, along with her consort, Sundareshwarar is taken out on a grand procession in the lake Teppakolam.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands
India’s latest sweethearts, Andaman and Nicobar islands are a must-visit especially in January. Most of the New Year’s Eve crowd would have dispersed by now and you will be free to witness the varied cultures of the archipelago. A part of this experience is the 10-day Island Tourism Festival that will start on January 5 and will feature exhibitions, dances and song performances as well as adventure sports like parasailing and surfing among others.

Bhubaneshwar
One of the first few planned cities of India along with Chandigarh and Jamshedpur, Bhubaneshwar is one of India’s most underrated travel destinations. Famous for its architecture and ancient temples, Bhubaneshwar forms an integral part of the Golden Triangle that includes the holy city of Puri (Jagannath Temple) and Konark (Sun temple). Bhubaneshwar is also hosting the Mukteshwar Dance Festival from January 14 to January 16 that promotes talented Odissi performers from around the country.

Diu
The tiny union territory has been on our radar for some years now and we are quite thrilled to see it embracing tourism like few other states have. It is currently hosting Asia’s longest beach festival that will go on till February 15. But there’s a lot more to do in Diu besides the festival. Diu has some pretty outstanding beaches and forts that you must absolutely visit as well as churches that will keep you busy for a good few days. And if the video below doesn’t make you want to visit it, we really don’t know what will!

To Know more about Crossworld Holidays, visit - www.crossworldholidays.com

Contact Details.

Crossworld Holidays Tours & Travels (IATA approved)

Address : Grounf Floor, Ram Smruti,
Opp. to New English School,
Ram Maruti Road, Cross Road,
Thane (W) - 400602, India
Tel:+91 - 22 - 4038 4747
Fax:+91 - 22 - 2542 3427
E-mail: crossh@gmail.com

 

10 Things To Keep In Mind When Traveling Abroad

Whether you’re embarking on a two week adventure to America for a community service trip or moving to Paris for a year to study abroad, traveling in another country can be an exhilarating experience

When you exit the airplane and step into that country's airport, the list of things to do may pile up. You want to see that museum, travel to an island off the coast, and try the local coffee. How do you come home completely fulfilled, without feeling like there’s something you missed?

We've compiled a list of what we believe are some universal guidelines to maximize your experience.

Learn About The Local Laws

Once you enter a country, you are subjected to its laws. Therefore, for your own safety, it's important to learn them before visiting. For instance, in Singapore you can be arrested for spitting in public.

Be Mindful Of The Culture

Even if the new culture's way of life is unnatural to you, you want to be respectful of it. Be aware of traditions and customs so you can pack appropriate clothes or learn basic skills like how to use chopsticks. 

Learn the native language

Pick up enough phrases to help you when you get inevitably lost, or to ensure that you don't get ripped off at the local markets. If you're staying for awhile, then immerse yourself in the language fully to be able to spark interesting conversations everyday and become more of a member of the community. It's no fun having to always respond to someone with "I don't understand".

Take precautions for the worst

Just to be safe, leave copies of your passport and address/contact information of where you are going with someone at home. Also, make a few extra copies to keep in your suitcase during your trip in case the original gets lost or stolen. Furthermore, become fully acquainted with the whereabouts of the Indian embassy in the country you are visiting. 

Know what may be hazardous to you

If you are visiting a country that serves mainly spicy food and you know that won't sit well with your stomach, pack appropriate medicines and supplements. If you are visiting a country that is prone to specific bugs or diseases such as malaria, give yourself time to receive the necessary vaccinations and shots. 

Watch the news

Be fully up to date with the happenings in the city you are visiting as well as neighboring countries. Don't be ignorant of potential dangers.

Be smart with your belongings

Always firmly hold your belongings in a way that they can't be snatched from you and don't dress extravagantly in expensive jewelry or accessories. Travelling abroad may turn you into a photographer but be cautious of flaunting your digital SLR camera. It's important not to make yourself seem vulnerable to robbery and theft. 

Keep in touch just enough

Though you shouldn't lose touch with your family and friends at home, don't let them inhibit your experience. Consider starting a blog or sending a postcard from your travels so your family and friends can be kept up to date on your adventures. Be in contact enough so you don't lose touch with what's happening at home but also focus on your adventure. 

Travel 

If you're spending a more lengthy time abroad, take advantage of your location to travel. 

Do What Natives Do

This is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Ride the elephant in Thailand, drink the Viennese Wine in Vienna, go sand duning in Dubai and brave through the Singaporean fish pedicure. And have fun!

Source- huffingtonpost.com

The best places for skiing in India

With the increasing popularity of winter sports, there are plenty of destinations offering skiing in India, along with snow boarding and trekking. Come winter and the picturesque Himalayas turn into a white wonderland. Carpeted in layers of fresh snow, they have some of the highest ski slopes in the world. Equipped with good accommodation, training centres and instructors, these ski towns in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand Kashmir are ideal for an adventurous getaway. From the magnificent high-altitude snowy landscapes of Gulmarg to the more gentle slopes around Narkanda and Solang Valley, there are a range of options to choose from.

Kufri

If you're visiting Kufri during the winter, it's the best time for a spot of skiing. For beginners, there are several gentle slopes to ease into things, while the pros can flaunt their skills down the slope from Mahasu. The government offers a number of ski courses ranging from a day to several days—ski equipment is available for hire as well—where experienced instructors teach you the ropes. A relatively new winter sport, tobogganing has recently gained popularity in Kufri, and is a favourite with tourists who want to enjoy sliding down the slopes without too much skill.

Solang Valley

Around 13 kilometres away from Manali, this pretty valley is a popular spot for adventure sports, especially skiing. Situated between Solang village and Beas Kund, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains and glaciers. In summer, it has facilities for paragliding, zorbing, mountain biking and horse riding. In winter, especially between January and March, it is used for skiing, snowboarding and sledging. It also hosts a winter skiing festival. The Directorate of Mountaineering & Allied Sports in Manali also organises basic, advance and intermediate level courses in skiing. For the less-adventurous, there are also plenty of walking trails all around.

Gulmarg

If you're looking for a destination which is as breathtakingly beautiful as it is adventurous, then look no further than Kashmir. The Kashmir valley is considered heaven on earth, and when it's blanketed in snow, it exudes a charm few other places do. The tiny and isolated hill village of Gulmarg is situated at the western extremity of the Himalayas in a subsidiary range called the Pir Panjals. Lying about 50 kilometres from Srinagar, it can be easily accessed by tourist buses, taxis and even by air. Owing to its location, Gulmarg gets some of the heaviest snowfalls in the Himalayas and has earned the distinction of being the best ski resort in the country. So once you've feasted your eyes on all the beauty, immerse yourself in some activity by hitting the slopes. Catering to both beginners and pros, skiing here can be one of the most powerful experiences. For the more mild adventure enthusiasts, there's the option of sledging, cable-car rides and snowboarding. Ski season starts mid December and lasts till the beginning of April. As for accommodation, there are various options. From state-owned huts and cottages, and beautifully appointed mid-range hotels for luxury accommodation there's something to suit every budget. Crossworld Holiadys also help you in Hotel Booking for Gulmarg.

In addition, Gulmarg offers several other sites of interest for tourists. It has the highest golf course in the world, the frozen Alpine lake of Alpather, the Baba Reshi shrine and the Gulmarg Biosphere Reserves.

Auli

A twelve-hour-long drive from Delhi, Auli is the closer and more affordable alternative to skiing in Gulmarg. Plan your trip between December and March, to catch the snow, and get in some ski time. For beginners looking to get a crash course, the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) offers several programmes, and also rents out all the necessary gear and equipment. There’s a 500-metre-mong ski-lift between the upper and lower slopes, and a superb, 20-km-long slope which is a treat for veterans. The days are usually nice and sunny, but the evenings get chilly, so pack heavy, and don’t forget to slather on a strong sunblock.

Narkanda

Perched at a height of 2708 m on NH-22, Narkanda is famous for its apple orchards as well as its skiing. The best season for skiing is between January and mid-March, when Narkanda is carpeted with thick snowfall. Situated only 65 km from Shimla, it is a quick and convenient winter getaway from Delhi and a popular skiing hotspot. The slopes around the hill station offer beautiful views of snow-covered forests and mountains. The main skiing area is in Dhumri, whose gentle slopes are ideal for beginners. Most hotels run by HPTDC along with the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports offers courses in skiing with qualified instructors, along with rental equipment.