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Best Wildlife Tourist Destination in Gujarat

The Landforms of Gujarat are dynamic and diverse in topography. Gujarat is home to 500 mammals and 500 bird species and various reptiles and amphibians. The state is a favorite destination for worldviews. Bird lovers and photographers across the world visit in large numbers to view the wildlife in their natural habitat. Gujarat has 4 National parks and 21 wildlife sanctuaries all managed by the forest department and the government of Gujarat.

Some Park and Wildlife sanctuaries are discussed below.

The Gujarat wildlife tour will enrich your first-hand experience with the wildlife and their habitats.

Gir National Park

Gir National ParkGir National Park and Wildlife sanctuary is located in the Junagadh district of Gujarat. The park spreads across an area of about 1,295 square km. The deciduous region is the only habitat for Asiatic Lions. These majestic cats can be spotted roaming free in the wild. Apart from Lions and leopards, there are smaller carnivores like Jackals, striped hyenas, and wild foxes. It’s interesting to watch four horned Chinkara grazing around, other herbivores include the Sambar, Blue bull, and Antelope. The water area of the sanctuary is the breeding spot for the marsh crocodile, tortoise, and monitor lizard. Snakes like cobras, vipers, and others crawl in the lush bushes and along the streams. The reserved area has flourished with more than 300 species of birds. Some birds frequently visiting include Serpent Eagle, Woodpecker, Rock Bush-Quail, and Indian Pita. Jungle Safari on a Jeep with an assistant guide will help you see the lions and other species from a close range and provide you with the utmost information.If you visit 15 days after Holi, you can attend the folk dance and food festival by the Maldhari and the Siddis tribe.Top attractions in Gir National Park include Kamleshwar Dam and Kankai Mata. Temple, Kankai forest check post, and Jamjir Waterfall.

Velavadar Blackbuck National Park

Velavadar Blackbuck National ParkThis park spreads across 34 square km and is located 47 km from Bhavnagar. The grassland stretches between two seasonal rivers and is famous for blackbucks. The beautiful, fast antelopes with spiraling horns leaping, running, feeding, and drinking water is a sight to watch. Over 120 species of birds can be spotted around the park. The wetland part attracts birds like Flamingos, White storks, cranes, and Raptors. Lesser floricans one of the rarest birds in the world are spotted here. If you visit the park in the early morning you can catch a glimpse of wolves and hyenas. A wildlife safari to this park will allow you to watch the prolific wildlife from close range. Carry binoculars to catch actions in the park.Also, you can visit Takhteshwar Temple. A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Marine National Park and Sanctuary

Marine National Park and SanctuaryMarine National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Gulf of Kutch in Jamnagar District and spreads across 163 square km. The region offers a  peek into marine habitats including grasslands, marshy areas, creeks, coral reefs, and mangroves. The mangroves are a breeding spot for endangered species of birds such as the Darter, Painted Stork, and Black-necked ibis. It’s spectacular to watch many species of birds such as Gulls, Kingfishers, and Eagles swooping down to catch fish. Winter season thousands of migratory birds flying in V-formations assemble on the banks. The water land is home to 40 species of aquatic animals including giant sea anemones, colored starfish, and octopus. The beaches of the coast are a habitat for Green Sea Turtles, olive ridleys, and leatherbacks.

Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary

Nal Sarovar Bird SanctuaryThe coral area about 121 sq. km is a natural lake with shallow waters and lagoons. Several species of migratory birds travel here in winter. The sanctuary breeds cranes, storks, spoonbills, ducks, and geese. This sanctuary is reputed and is inhabited by several endangered species including Flamingos.A boat ride is a good idea for bird lovers and photographers.

Rann of Kutch 

Rann of KutchRann of Kutch is divided intoGreat Rann of Kutch and Little Rann of Kutch. Rann of Kutch is an expanse of cracked earth, inland from the sea that will leave you spellbound. The water bodies and shrub forest are homes to wild assets and beautiful birds.

The Great Rann of Kutch

The Great Rann of KutchThesanctuary is a salt marsh in the Thar desert and is the largest salt desert in the world. Thousands of Flamingos gather here flying, pecking, and catching fish. Some birds like Houbara, Spoonbill, bustard eagle, Kite, and common cranes are spotted here frequently. A tour here is an enchanting experience. Walking or riding in deserts and watching the sunset is a treat.

Little Rann of Kutch

Little Rann of KutchThe entire region is an expanse of arid and muddy salt-flat land. This sanctuary has around 300 species of birds and 42 mammal species including Wild Ass. Birds like the Houbara bustard, eagle, pelican, kites, flamingos, and common cranes are spotted here. This sanctuary is inhabited by endangered species of birds including Florican. The hospitality of the department towards the tourist is admiring.Travel Agency in Atlanta is a leading promoter of world tourism, contact to learn more about the offers exclusively provided by the agency.

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Dubai Travel Guide for First Time Travelers

Dubai, a city and emirate in the United Arab Emirates, is known for elegance, ultramodern architecture, vibrant nightlife, and luxury shopping. The city of skyscrapers, ports, and beaches will fascinate tourists.

Dubai

Apply for a Travel Visa

There are different travel visa rules for different nationals. Citizens of GCC countries are exempted from Visa or permit travel in UAE. Citizens of certain countries do require visas on arrival. Those travelers can get a 30-day or 90-day visit visa for single or multiple entries.

However certain nationals must acquire a visa before they depart for the UAE. The government of UAE has a website providing all the requisites to travel.

Things to take note of,

  • Book Flight tickets in advance to get access to affordable rates
  • Book accommodation in lieu of duration of visit
  • Check the list of banned items on travel to Dubai
  • Get a sim card at the airport

Travel Around Dubai

  1. There is a lot of traffic in Dubai. There are times the traffic gets peaked. Sunday is a working day and weekends are on Friday and Saturday. Traffic is less on weekends.
  2. Tourists can use regular taxi cabs. Taxi fares are comparatively inexpensive to other destinations in the world. Taxi services are available everywhere. You can book one by phone or via app services.
  3. Dubai has an effective metro system. The metro stations are located near major attractions, sites, cities, and malls. The Red Line starts near Dubai International Airport and travels along the city highway. The green line travels from the Al Twar area to Dubai Creek. It is the world’s largest driverless train system, has comfortable seating, affordable prices, and is fully air-conditioned. Buy a Nol card, keep it topped up or buy a ticket at the starting station.
  4. Bus are low-cost options. You can hop on a bus at Dubai’s Airport terminals with routes intersecting every major neighborhood and are available for 24 hours. You should buy a top-up NoI card in advance as drivers don’t use cash.

 

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Not Permitted in Public

If you are visiting Dubai for the first time do abide by the rules set by the authorities. You have to dress conservatively in public places. They don’t tolerate people flaunting their skin in public.

Have to be well-behaved in public meaning no display of affection, no swearing in public, no alcohol consumption in public, and taking photos only with due permission, Unmarried couples are legally banned from cohabiting. During the month of Ramadan, you are prohibited from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours

The outdoor attractions in Dubai are best experienced in the winter season, as summer is extremely hot to venture out.

Must Visit Attractions in Dubai

Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa is the tallest structure in the world and a global icon. The building represents the conceptual heart and soul of the city. The towering structure is based on an abstraction of the Hymenocallis flower, with three sections around a center. Viewed from the top it looks like an onion-dome design found in Islamic architecture. The base of the tower is for entertainment and dining, and Dubai Mall and musical Dubai Fountain nearby attract a plethora of tourists from around the world.

Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah

Admire the splendid architecture of Palm Jumeirah island literally shaped like a palm tree. It is an iconic man-made island. Palm Jumeirah island has posh towers and classy global restaurants. You can marvel at Palm Fountain, the world’s largest dancing fountain. All towers offer majestic views of the Arabian Gulf, Dubai skyline, and Burj-Al Arab.

Museum of Future

museum of future

Museum of the future is a modern-age museum dedicated to the exploration of the future showcasing how the world will look in 2071. Explore digital amazon exhibits and discover rainforests. The architectural expertise of Shaunkilla in the walls of the museum is engraved with Arabic poetry.

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

The underwater tunnels at the aquarium are home to thousands of marine species. Endangered tiger sharks are preserved in ginormous tanks of the underwater zoo. You can visit the king crocodile exhibit. Try your experience at cage snorkeling.

Dubai Fountain

Dubai Fountain

Marvel at the tallest dancing fountains in the world and take an Abra boat ride during a fountain show to catch the marvel from marine water. You can enjoy lavish meals at high-end restaurants. Many tourists come to catch a glimpse of the fountain.

Do grab the chance to visit the high-end city during the vacation for unforgettable memories.

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Must Visit Travel Destinations in Asia for Vacations

Leisure trip!!  A great way to unwind yourself and explore nature’s beauty. Asia with its diverse topography, deep oceans, gigantic mountains, steep valleys, and above all a deep culture will offer you a euphoric experience. Never miss a chance to witness the grandeur of magical places. There are so many places worth watching but here are some chosen must-visit places.

Bali, Indonesia 

Bali, IndonasiaBali is a major tourist destination. The town will enchant you with its tranquility, long beaches, white sandy shore, and magnificent temples. You can stroll along the beaches, go for adventures like trekking to Mount Batur for beautiful views, riding on a Bali swing, or surfing on beaches. Visit Uluwatu Temple, a majestic and finest of Balinese temples located on a cliff-top, adjacent to the Indian Ocean. The archaeological remains, enchanting oceanic views, and the sunset will captivate you. If interested you can watch the traditional  Kecak dance, a form of dance-drama that narrates the story of the Ramayana epic, It is performed at the adjacent cliff-top stage from 6 pm to 7 pm against the breathtaking background of sunset. During your stay can also indulge in luxurious resorts, and rejuvenate with SPA sessions. Some major attractions include Ubud Monkey forest, Sidemen valley Sekumpul waterfall

Phuket, Thailand

Phuket, ThailandPhuket is a secluded island. The place is stunning with long benches, and turquoise shades of water with limestone, and cliffs. You can enjoy snorkeling, and diving, and indulge in vibrant nights. There are villas to stay in and overview the coast. You can visit the Phuket Thai Hua Museum, a British -Colonial architectural mansion displaying the history of Chinese immigrants in Phuket.Besides sightseeing you can do lots of shopping and enjoy street foods like pancakes, noodle soup, fried rice noodles with shrimp, Thai steamed dumplings, and exotic papaya salad is best served with grilled chicken. All yummy treats for food lovers.

Singapore

SingaporeSingapore is a technologically advanced country with a remarkable blend of eccentric skyscrapers and verdant space. From spending time meeting characters at universal studios to catching stunning visuals from Singapore Flyer, Singapore caters to the interest of all kinds of visitors. You can enjoy all water activities at Sentosa Island, embark on a wild nocturnal adventure at Singapore Zoo, and Visit the National Gallery. You will enjoy visiting shopping malls, parks, and dining restaurants to pamper you with mouth tantalizing cuisines.

Kathmandu, Nepal

Kathmandu, NepalKathmandu is Nepal’s famous city and is considered one of the most beautiful places in Asia. Kathmandu’s culture is influenced by Buddhism and Hinduism. There are monasteries and temples with engraved architecture depicting unique tales. The famous 15 days Mount Everest Base Camp attracts thousands of adventure lovers across the world. From historical sites to shopping marts, Kathmandu will be worth viewing.

Sri Lanka

Sri LankaSri Lanka is an attractive tourist destination. The country is covered with mountains, steep valleys, long beaches, and lush green tea plantations. Sri Lanka resembles India in topography.  Train rides at the valleys of Nuwara Eliya, the sight of beautiful Gregory lake, and breathtaking views from Adams Peak will appeal to you. At Jaffna, you can visit temples of historic importance. Travelers gather at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to watch baby elephants playing in the river. Mirissa, in Sri Lanka, is featured as the best Honeymoon destination in the world.

Maldives

MaldivesMaldives is exclusively for people who are fond of beaches, seas, and water villas. The islands in the Maldives are spectacular and perfect for a relaxing vacation. Tourists Can lie basking on beaches or enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling and others. Banana Reef, the oldest reef in the Maldives is adorned with stunning caves, and majestic cliffs, and is full of coral growth. The reef is inhabited by Sharks, and barracudas, preferred by divers, exploring the marine world. Other attractions include Vaadhoo Island, Sun Island, and Glowing Beach.

Myanmar

MyanmarMyanmar is home to beautiful landscapes and numerous shimmering pagodas. Myanmar is rich in culture and tradition with a little touch of western influence. Sule Pagoda, Mahamuni Buddha Temple, and Mandalay royal palace are worth visiting. Kuthodaw Pagoda contains the world’s largest book, there are 729 marble slabs in total, and on every single slab, there stands a white stupa inscribed with text from Tripitaka, the Buddhist scriptures. What a sight to behold! 

Rajasthan, India

Rajasthan, IndiaRajasthan is home to spectacular and vibrant cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, Ajmer, Jaisalmer, and various others. The majestic forts and grand palaces signify the reign of the glorious past of Royal kings who once ruled the country. The soft and granular sand deserts and camel rides make it an unforgettable experience.  Ranthambore National park is exclusively for White tigersThen Mount Abu only hill station state,1722 meters above sea level covered with green forests, lakes, and scenic waterfalls. It is a place of religious importance for Jain followers. Rajasthan offers exclusive stays at hotels and villas for tourists from all around the world.Asia is a great place to spend memorable time with near and dear ones. If you’re interested, check out the Asian vacation package.It will give you brief details related to traveling and lodging.

 

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7 Best Places to Visit in Singapore and Malaysia

Singapore and Malaysia are the wonderlands of Asia. Exploring the vast expanse of both the country is an overwhelming experience. You will be enchanted by beautiful cities, cultural heritage, long beaches, and spectacular sights. From Feasting, shopping, parks, and wildlife you will find it bountiful. 

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Here are the best places to visit on a tour of Singapore and Malaysia:

Sentosa Island, Singapore

Santosa, SingaporeSentosa Island was conceived for complete leisure time. Here you can lounge on the beaches and get a tane. You can find plenty of activities to do on the island’s golf course. The theme parks, shopping malls, dining restaurants, and places will pamper you with choices. Some attractions include Resorts World Sentosa, Universal studios, Fort Siloso, and Capella Hotel.

Garden by the bay, Singapore

Garden by the bay, SingaporeSpread across the expanse of 250 acres, Garden by the bay is a must-visit island. The island Is covered with a lush green garden. You will see towering steel-framed super-tree structures. Then the two greenhouses were filled with orchids and plants.

National Gallery, Singapore

National Gallery, SingaporeAt the national gallery, you will find the largest and most valuable collections of modern art in Southeast Asia numbering 8000 masterpieces. The gallery is the jewel in Singapore’s crown and a delight for aesthetes across the world. As you scroll across the gallery you will find collections of Italian Renaissance paintings with works of great Florentine and Venetian painters of that period. Also impressive works of British, French, and Spanish painters from the 15th to 19th centuries.

Singapore Night Safari

Singapore Night SafariEmbark on a wild nocturnal adventure. Night Safari is an awesome experience, a guided tram ride together with night encounters is a must. This zoo is an unusual world-class attraction that is a habitat for exotic and endangered animal species including Himalayan griffon vultures, gazelles, rhinoceroses, and wild cats. This zoo also happens to be a rescue, conservation, and research center. Here you can enjoy gourmet food while exploring the night adventures.

Skywalk on Petronas Twin Towers, Malaysia

Skywalk on Petronas Twin Towers, MalaysiaThe twin towers are an iconic structure in the world. These towers are the tallest in the world. If you enjoy the skywalk then there is a bridge that connects two towers. You will get a bird’s eye view of Kuala Lumpur city from the top of the skyscraper.

Portuguese Architecture in Malacca, Malaysia

Portuguese Architecture in Malacca, MalaysiaLocated next to Malacca Strait, Malacca is an architectural wonder of the country. It was priorly a Portuguese colony, you will find Portuguese influence in churches, buildings, galleries, museums, and other historic places. The city provides Double-decker bus services for tourists to move around the city.

Orangutans in Sabah, Malaysia

Orangutans in Sabah, MalaysiaYou can watch the arboreal apes covered with reddish-brown hair in Sandakan in the state of Sabah, East Malaysia. Sepilok is the first orangutan rehabilitation center that opened in 1960. This center is home to orphaned apes or those rescued from illegal possessions. This is a point of the major attraction for tourists. Make your tour a memorable experience with family and friends.You can also book cruise vacation packages where you can have an amazing experience on the cruise during vacations. If you are looking for recommendations for your own ideal itineraries, please contact our Akshar Tours team for the most comprehensive Malaysia-Singapore Travel Guide.

 

 

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Overview of the OCI Card Application and Process from the USA

OCI is an acronym for Overseas Citizenship of India. It is an immigration status authorizing a foreign citizen of Indian origin to live and work in India for a prolonged period. The OCI card was introduced by the government in 2005 to meet the demands of millions of Indians residing overseas who insisted on dual citizenship. India does not approve dual citizenship, but OCI smart cards do grant certain privileges to the holder.

Eligibility for an OCI Card

The eligibility criteria state the foreign national was an Indian citizen after 26th January 1950 or belonged to a territory that later became a part of India post Independence. Likewise, his or her children and grandchildren are eligible for registration. Minor children of the applicants are also eligible for OCI.

While applying for an OCI, it is mandatory for former Indian nationals to provide a Certificate of Renunciation of Indian Citizenship. In case you don’t have the certificate, apply for it. Once you have the certificate, you can proceed with the OCI application.

Step By Step Guide to the OCI Card Application

Here are some procedures to follow for applying for an OCI card. In-person applications are not entertained. Applicants can submit their application to a center in their jurisdiction.

OCI Visa Services makes the process simple and easier for you.

1. To identify the OCI Application Category.

The OCI classifications are listed below:

  • New OCI Registration
  • OCI Registration in lieu of PIO card validity
  • OCI Registration in lieu of lost PIO card
  • OCI Miscellaneous Services
  • The applicant was issued a new passport
  • A change in the applicant’s particulars like name, nationality
  • Loss or damage of OCI registration
  • Change of address or occupation
  • Cancel or renunciation of OCI

2. Fill out the online application form for the OCI card

Complete your OCI application at the Indian government website. There must not be more than 180 days between the submission of the form and the submission of 3 forms to the Embassy.

The form must provide complete and correct details. As part of the procedure upload recent photographs, signatures, and relevant documents

3. Register with VFS Global and pay your fee

Look for an authorized VFS Indian Consular Application Centre. Once the online form is filled, prepare a hard copy with relevant documents to be sent by post to the VFS Indian Consular center.

4. Submit a Physical Application to the VFS Global website

Reach out to the Indian Embassy USA to help you choose the center to submit your application. The VFS center accepts physical applications duly filled with black ink only. Select the right postal method during the registration process like prepaid courier labels.

5. Submit the receipt of the Application by post

Once you receive the receipt of your application, the VFS system will get updated and you will receive an email on your id. The application will be duly reviewed by the authority. This takes some time.

OCI Card Fees must be paid in US Dollars

The OCI card application process takes anywhere between 8 to 19 weeks depending on the nature of the purpose.

The Travel Agency in Atlanta wishes to provide its customers with the best flight deals and discounts. As a promoter of travel and tourism, they handle all the documentation processes transparently and quickly..

 

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International Kite Festival of Gujarat 2023: All You Need to Know

Gujarat remains vibrant throughout the year by hosting numerous festivals. One of the popular festivals, among others, is the International Kite Festival. The International Kite Festival is celebrated on the eve of Makar Sankranti. This festival commemorates the transition from winter to summer, and also the forthcoming winter crop harvest. Kites are traditionally flown to represent God’s spiritual awakening from its winter slumber. 

A kite festival is a fantastic event where beautiful blue skies shine brightly with colorful kites flying around and people’s laughter rings in the wind. You will be dazzled to find thousands of vibrantly colored kites supported on a sturdy frame looming high up in the sky. International kite flyers and local champions compete with fervor and enthusiasm. People of all ages gather to witness our Indian paper kites competing with those from Japan, Indonesia, the USA, the UK, and other countries. 

kite festival

Where Does the Kite Festival Take Place?

Other than Gujarat, the state of Telangana as well as Rajasthan is also known for celebrating this festival. Cities like Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Surat, Vadodara, Rajkot, Hyderabad, Nadiad, and Dakor are among those that participate in the festivities. Kite flying is an international event that will take place in Ahmedabad, which is often referred to as the Kite Capital of Gujarat. The festival this year will run from January 8 to 14, and a large number of visitors from all over the world will be arriving in Ahmedabad to participate. Kite flying begins at 5 a.m. and continues until late into the night.The International Kite Festival is celebrated in January every year and is the main attraction of Gujarat tourism. The first international kite festival was celebrated in 1989 in Ahmedabad. Various cities in Gujarat hold kite flying competitions, the showstopper contest is held in Ahmedabad, the kite capital of Gujarat. The Sabarmati riverfront, with a capacity to accommodate over 5 lakh visitors, is the best place to witness and enjoy the event. If you are tempted by a passion for touring, check out Rann Utsav Tour Packages.

How Do the Locals Celebrate it?

Uttarayan is among the most well-known festivals in Gujarat and therefore holds significant significance, to the point that every household begins preparing for the event in the weeks prior to the festival. The entire celebration lasts one week and concludes on the morning of Uttarayan, also known as Makar Sakranti, a North Indian festival.Gujarat serves special foods on the eve of Makar Sankranti like chikki, ladoo, and rewadi, which are made from sesame seeds. The famous dish Undhiyu (a mixed vegetable including yam and beans) is served best with jalebi.The Patang Bazaar, a famous marketplace in the heart of Ahmedabad, is open throughout the day for a week. The place exhibits the craftsmanship of kite makers, who create strong and resilient kites. People crowd the street to grab their kites from their favorite kitemakers. Next is selecting Manja, a sharp thread used in kite-flying competitions for cutting the opponent’s kite strings. Manja is made of sharp material or coated with finely crushed glass, metal, or other substances. Even after the competition is over, the spirits fail to die. Lanterns are attached to strings and kites continue to fly. This adds to a spectacular night view.It doesn’t matter what country you are from or what cultural convictions you hold; it is possible to enjoy the kite festival across India in all its splendor and find out the details about Uttarayan. So, if you are planning to be traveling to Gujarat during January, make certain to book Gujarat tour packages that include the world-renowned kite festival in order to experience on your own some of the most stunning places in India.