Indian Stays

A popular event to look forward to :: Sao Joao Feast, Goa. A...

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 07:20:22 -0400

A popular event to look forward to :: Sao Joao Feast, Goa.

A common sight during this festival is excited men jumping into overflowing village wells to retrieve bottles of local feni alcohol. Sounds like fun! There are also boat races, singing and dancing.

Also called the fertility feast of Saint John the Baptist, this day is an auspicious day for aspiring mothers. They offer their wishful prayers into the ponds or wells.

A good time to try out Goan delicacies like Sanas with Sorpotel and Patodio.

The festival starts Thursday, 24th June in Siolim, Goa.

Yours Truly

www.namastay.in

+91 9920. 807280

CustomerCare@namastay.in

Acc no. 54670 :: A leading heritage lake resort , situated in...

Mon, 14 May 2012 16:08:02 -0400

Acc no. 54670 :: A leading heritage lake resort , situated in the prime water front of Kerala ‘s largest lake Vembanad at Punnamada, Alleppey

This is the first and leading heritage lake resort.We have 12 independent Tharavad Rooms ( Ancient Kerala Houses).This has a typical old Kerala House architecture which is more than 150 years old.

They have the following facilities - Multi cuisine restaurant, house boats, speed boats, country boat, fishing, trekking, village tour, sight seeing, a visit to the world famous Kuttanad region - this is the only place in the world where paddy field farming is 2 to 3 meters below sea level, Butter fly garden, Yoga & Medication center, cycling, cultural shows, prime water front rooms and taxi arrangement.

Yours Truly

www.namastay.in

Call :: +919920. 807280

Acc no. 54605 :: More than hundred years old, this heritage...

Mon, 14 May 2012 16:05:00 -0400

Acc no. 54605 :: More than hundred years old, this heritage house has all the makings of a relaxed home stay.

More than hundred years old, this heritage house has all the makings of a relaxed home stay.

Exteriors
The arecanut-drying pillars typical to old houses of the region, mark the exterior. The outdoor dining area is a delight, just as much as the host’s award winning bonsai garden.You can choose to stay back and enjoy homemade delicacies or swing in a hammock and gaze at the arecanut plantation beyond, play table tennis or just sit in the courtyard with a book.

Host
The keen hosts take the guest for hiking and swimming in the river close-by. If you are fond of literature and history, you can also visit the noted poet Kusempu’s house cum museum and Kanyashila.

The quiet ambiance, the blend of old furniture and modern bathroom fittings, the scenic hills around and the wonderful hosts, all make it an experience to cherish.

Yours Truly

www.namastay.in

Call :: +919920. 807280

Acc no. 54605 :: More than hundred years old, this heritage house has all the makings of a relaxed home stay.

Mon, 14 May 2012 15:52:25 -0400

Yours Truly

www.namastay.in

Call :: +919920. 807280

Top 6 Heritage Stays in India

Mon, 14 May 2012 15:44:13 -0400

Acc no. 54685 :: Kerala hospitality at a 500 year old Portuguese Homestay in Kochi

Built with four-foot wide walls and a high ceiling, one can experience the grand old city of Cochin here. The windows open up to the street where you can see one of the oldest churches of India; the St. Francis Church which is about 500 years old. Vasco da Gama is buried in this church.

At this homestay they serve both South Indian and Continental cuisine.

Experience living in a historical monument, enjoy the old street, the breeze from the Arabian Sea at homestay run by a pleasant family for the last 13 years.

Acc no. 54711 :: Homely hospitality with a professional touch in a 150 year old heritage home in Kumarakom

This is a 150 year old traditional Kerala home. The house has been significantly built in wood. There is a small courtyard and very nice verandah and sit out.

The rooms are well furnished. The antique furniture has been well preserved in this homestay.

There is also a canal on the property where one can go boating or fishing.

Both Indian and western cuisine is served.

Activities
Farm tour can be conducted at no extra cost
Canno rowing on the backwaters can also be conducted at no extra cost
You can visit 3 pilgrimage centers located at a distance of 15 kms from the accommodation. These pilgrimage centers include Kotayam Shiva Temple, St Thomas Church and St. Alias Church. A vehicle can be arranged at an extra cost of approx Rs. 800.00.
A massage can be organised @ Rs.800.00 per person for 1 hr.
You can watch a Katakali Performance that is held at a distance of 1 km from the accommodation @ Rs. 800.00 per person.
You can spend time on a House Boat @ Rs.1000.00 for 1 hr. and even have lunch @ Rs.250.00 per person.

Food Traditional Syrian Christian food is cooked and served by the host. Meals are charged at Rs.250 per person per meal including tea/coffee in the evening and a light snack.

Acc no. 54717 :: A restored heritage stay in Curtorim styled along colonial Portuguese lines, set amongst verdant fields and wooded areas

This homestay is more than a 100 yr old elegantly restored Heritage House built on a sprawling, terraced 1.5 acre property.

Location

This homestay is located in a quiet village in South Goa about 7 kms from Margaon and is popular for bird watching and historical sites.

Homestay

This stay overlooks a seasonal lake and is styled along Portuguese lines with a high plinth, imposing columns, high ceiling and excellent ventilation.

Rooms

The House encloses a living room, dining room, five bedrooms, a lounge and a library. The rooms are furnished with antique furniture sourced from across India. The dining table that seats 8 people is made out of one of the doors of the house!

Food

Complimentary breakfast served is a combination of both Indian and Continental cuisine. Lunch/Dinner served is a mix of Indian and Goan cuisine which includes a dal, 2 vegetarian dishes or 1 vegetarian and 1 non vegetarian dish (either fish or chicken), salad and dessert.

The Host will be glad to offer assistance in terms of leisure activities, sight seeing options, transfer arrangements or just about anything to make your stay more memorable in Goa.

Acc no. 54719 :: A Heritage Home in Panjim that offers furnished rooms with antiques, contemporary art and other collectibles

This accommodation is a stately colonial mansion that is over 130 years old.

Location
This heritage mansion is located in the Latin Quater of Fontainhas.

Rooms
The rooms are furnished with antique furniture: four poster double/single beds in rosewood, almirahs, divans, dressing tables, gilded pelmets, original art, Planters chairs & Lace Curtains. The bathrooms are modern styled and have mosaic bathtubs. The ground floor houses the gallery Gitanjali, showcasing paintings by contemporary Indian and overseas artists.

Acc no. 54614 :: A colonial jungle lodge on 98 acres of coffee plantation on the edge of the Mudumalai Sanctuary

Each room at this Heritage House is refreshingly different and eclectic, combining a rustic style with functional luxury. Rooms are with attached bathrooms that have bathtubs and other essential luxuries.

There is a common room where there is plenty of reading material available from wildlife to biographies. The dining hall is quaint with antique chairs and dining table. The food here has always got great reviews from our guests.

There is a raised platform that offers you almost a perfect 360 degree view of the plantation and the forest beyond.

Catch untamed wildlife at its best
Experience a thrilling rough ride through the jungle in an open 1942 ford jeep
Trek the land with a naturalist @ Rs. 250/- per head per hour
Sit yourself down by the river
Visit an elephant camp
or Picnic at beautiful spots. A Jeep can be arranged for this purpose, snacks or meals can be packed at an extra charge as per the requirements of the guest.
A Jeep Safari can be arranged at Rs.1850.00

Food
Lunch/ Dinner : Rs. 450.00 per head per meal
Complimentary Continental breakfast is served.
Meals are Indian and served in a buffet style. Non-veg is included.

Room Service and food for pets is charged for. A bonfire, walk around the plantation and a welcome drind are complimentary services.

BSNL and Vodafone networks are available on the property.

Acc no. 54616 :: Colonial Heritage Bungalow amidst picturesque gardens and lawns right near the heart of Ooty!

This homestay is a 100 year old Colonial bungalow on one acre of land, only a km away from Ooty town.

The Bungalow

All the rooms have wooden flooring and panelling, Victorian furniture and bay windows overlooking the lawn. The bathrooms are large with modern fittings. All the rooms have have a TV with cable connection.

The garden surrounding the bungalow is large enough for families to enjoy some outdoor games or to also relax under the garden umbrellas. The garden has walnut, tomato, peach and passion fruit trees and two quaint waterfalls crafted from springs.

Local sightseeing, trekking, pick-up from nearest railway/ bus station or airport can be arranged on prior request. The bungalow is located barely a 10 min walk from the Ooty town centre.

The owners live on the premises on the upstairs portion of the bungalow. This homestay is ideal for families with children or for groups of friends.

Food

There is a fixed menu for breakfast and meals. Guests can order individual dishes from our South Indian menu which comprises of idli, dosa and ootappams and can also avail of continental breakfast like toast with eggs, butter and jam. Tariff for breakfast would range from Rs.25 to Rs. 40/- Lunch/dinner can be ordered from a set menu which would include rice, chappati, salad, dal, a vegetable and a chicken preparation. Tariff for individual meal items would range from Rs.10 to Rs.40/-

Yours Truly

www.namastay.in

Call :: +919920. 807280

4 best Wildlife Destinations to head to this summer!

Mon, 14 May 2012 14:57:38 -0400

Wayanad, Kerala

Also referred to as the green paradise of Kerala, Wayanad is truly all of it and more. The name literally translates to the Land of Paddy Fields, and yet it also has the lofty Western Ghats in its diverse landscape.

Things to do ::

This is paradise for trekkers for the spectacular views the trek provides. The Soochipara, Kanthanpara and Meenmutty waterfallsare the biggest crowd pullers when it comes to falls of the region. Pookot lake is a freshwater Lake where you can enjoy paddle boating while Banasura dam, the largest earth dam in India is a beautiful place that can be explored on a speed boat.

A simple nature walk too gives you ample chances to spot birds, deer and other small wildlife. There are several indigenous tribes in Wayanad that you can visit to see their way of life. Wayanad is also dotted with several spice plantationsthat are a pleasure to walk through. It is also a place where you can do nothing but appreciate the natural beauty around.

Attractions ::

Of great historical importance are the Eddakal Caves that contain prehistoric rock carvings that are very interesting. Due to a large forest cover, Wayanad has a lot of wildlife that you can see at the famous Tholpetty or Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuaries.

Masinagudi, Tamil Nadu

Masinagudi is a small town, part of the Mudumalai Forest Reserve in Tamil Nadu. It offers an interesting contrast of vast forest land on the foothills of the Nilgiri mountains.

Things to do ::

The most interesting things to do in Masinagudi are going on a wildlife safari and taking a nature trek. You can either travel by our own vehicle or take a safari in the local jeeps. It’s the easiest to spot Bison and Elephants, a little more luck may be needed to spot Sambar or Spotted Deer.

Bandipur National Park, Karnataka

Situated in the Nilgiris, Bandipur National Park is amongst the most beautiful and oldest national parks in the country. Located 80 km from Mysore in Karnataka, Bandipur National Park is one of India’s well known protected areas and an important Project Tiger reserve.

Declared a National Park in 1974, Bandipur once served as the hunting ground of the Mysore Maharajas.

Bandipur National Park covers an area of 890 sq km housing some of the most exotic species of flora and fauna. Bandipur, along with Nagarhole National Park, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and Madumalai National Park, has forest cover spread over an area of 2183 sq km. It is the largest protected area in south India and a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.

Apart from Moyar, Kabini and Nugu Rivers, various other streams also pass through the river providing it with abundant water supply.

Attractions ::

Bandipur National Park is popular for being home to over 75 Royal Bengal Tigers. Asian Elephants and chittals are other prime attractions of the park. One can also spot other wildlife like sambar, wild boar, jackal, gaur, barking deer, langur, etc. as well. Sightings of King cobra, viper, rat snake, python, common cobra, etc. are also common in the park.

Pangot, Uttaranchal

A sleepy hill village, Pangot lies at the Himalayan foothills and has all the charm and beauty of a small settlement.

Things to do ::

A birding hotspot, Pangot is a huge favourite with avid birders. If you are a birding enthusiast, Pangot gives you the opportunity to spot rare Himalayan species you won’t find elsewhere. Pangot is a nature lover’s dream, and apt for those who wish to enjoy some solitude. You can even go for small hikes around the place, but it is largely a place to unwind in the lap of green mountains.

Pangot is an ideal place to get away from the heat of the plains from March to May. July to September can be rainy, but not very heavy though it could be foggy. October onwards is a cold time, and the region receives heavy snowfall through the winter. It’s cold but very beautiful at the same time and hence a good time to visit.

Yours Truly

www.namastay.in

Call :: +919920. 807280

condenasttraveler: Top 10 Islands in the United States |...

Mon, 14 May 2012 14:48:04 -0400

condenasttraveler:

Top 10 Islands in the United States | Nantucket, Massachusetts

Top 5 stay options in Uttaranchal

Thu, 03 May 2012 12:38:14 -0400

For those of you planning to head to this part of India this summer, here is a list of our best picks for an authentic stay in Uttaranchal.

For those of you looking for suggestions for a summer getaway, here is why you should consider Uttaranchal ::

The lesser explored of the famous Northern hill states of India, Uttarakhand is fast emerging out of the shadow of its more famous neighbour Himachal Pradesh.

Replete with mountains, rivers and forests, it is every inch the typical Himalayan paradise. What you won’t find though is as much commercialization, especially if you wander in the remoteness of its idyllic villages. Ensconced high in the Himalayas, Uttarakhand is the new hideaway of the offbeat traveller. Broadly divided into Garhwal and Kumaon regions, it has everything from adventure to relaxation, wildlife to natural beauty.

Pick #1 :: Acc no. 54535 :: This resort is in the midst of a jungle and yet you can experience being in a different world.

Reaching this stay requires a short hike through the jungles of Binsar, its only a teaser for the true wilderness tryst you are about to experience. Slowly towards the end, the place will reveal itself between a cluster of trees and you will see the various tents and concrete blocks spread out with snow capped mountains in the backdrop.

Tents

All the luxury tents and rooms have viewing balconies, some attached and some a walk away, apart from a common view point from where you can gaze at the Himalayas.

Pick #2 :: Acc no. 54538 :: Located in the midst of the Sat Tal Jungles, apt for spotting rare species

This camp is located in “Sat Tal”, a cluster of seven lakes. This accommodation is a camp that consists of a group of tents that are comfortable and border on luxury as well. This site was chosen after careful consideration and the jungle patch was selected after scouting by experienced birders who spotted rare species in the area that was not found elsewhere.

Tents

These tents have been built keeping in mind birding enthusiasts. The tents are spacious and with views of the jungle outside. The main dining tent has been designed to resemble a typical Kumaoni hut with village art everywhere. The calm place only echoes with sounds of the forest and you may even be surprised by a deer outside your tent.

Pick #3 :: Acc no. 54635 :: A heritage house in Nainital with a rich past, it has as many stories as its large number of rooms

This heritage stay dates back to the 19th century when it was a tea parlour for English ladies with a tennis court at the back for recreation.Slowly it developed into a place that hosted Europeans in pre-independence days during which a new wing was added specifically as the summer residence for Indian Nawabs.Much of the quaint building speaks of the rich history of this heritage property,in which no two rooms are the same.Well-maintained gardens and deodar covered paths surround the place which has been in the Sah family for four generations.The large place can accommodate over a hundred guests and hence is ideal for large groups.This stay is conveniently located and is a short walk from the town area.

Pick #4 :: Acc no. 54630 :: An adventurous stay with supreme luxury at Ramnagar, Nainital

This resort was established with the thought of providing luxury with an edge to nature lovers. Here you can unwind in the prime of luxury after a tiring wildlife expedition in the Corbett park near by.

Cottages

The various cottages and dining area are connected by paths flanked by trees and there is also a beautiful stretch canopied by bamboo trees. This resort is also inter-connected to another resort, guests can walk in to this place and make use of its ayurvedic centre and spa facilities.

Pick #5 :: Acc no. 54537 :: A quiet Lodge to enjoy wildlife especially birds

This jungle lodge in Pangot is truly what its name means- Tales of the forest. This lodge is situated at a prime location in the mountainous village of Pangot. This place has cottages scattered across its beauteous property.

The USP of the place is the amount of wild life you can enjoy, especially birds. Many guests come year after year even in the cold winters to see rare Himalayan Peasants and other birds. This place hires birding guides from renowned places such as Bharatpur and Gir for their guests. This serene place is great for a quiet getaway and for an enriching experience.

5 exciting ways to beat the heat this summer!

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 06:09:30 -0400

We have compiled a list of 5 destinations to beat the heat at, this summer. This list not only brings together some of the best hilly destinations of our country but also the most beautiful and scenic. We hope that you spend some of your most memorable times this summer.

Dalhousie

Nestled in the beautiful Chamba valley, Dalhousie is its crowning glory. A colonial retreat popular in pre-independence days, it retains its popularity till date.

For wildlife enthusiasts, there is the Kalatope Wildlife Sanctuarynearby. Dainkund Peak is the highest point to which you can hike to get a stunning view of the valley. You can also shop for artefacts at the Tibetan Handicrafts Centre.

The Chamba Valley itself is bewitchingly beautiful, and most people come here just to experience the lush beauty around. The Lakshmi Narayan temple is of great architectural value and stands tall in the valley. Satdhara, or seven waterfalls, are an added attraction.

You can also visit the Bhuri Singh museum here.

Dharamshala

Also called ‘Little Lhasa’, Dharamshala is what it literally means - a spiritual dwelling. Divided into Upper and Lower Dharamshala, Mc Leod Ganj or Upper Dharamshala is the famous home of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in exile.

The Dalai Lama Temple complex is something that every visitor invariably goes to. There is an interesting museum here and a gift shop where you can buy beautiful artefacts. A beautiful fifteen minute walk from either McLeod Ganj or Naddi leads to the Church of St. John in the Wilderness that dates back to 1853. Quite literally, it is in the midst of a deodar and pine forest near Forsyth Ganj. The Dal Lake is 11 kms from Sharamshal and makes for a scenic small trek. Dharamkot is another wooded spot getting to which makes for a lovely day hike. You can also volunteer for teaching programs in Dharamshala schools if you wish to stay longer and interact more intensely with the locals.

Ooty

Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam is the capital of the Nilgiris; the “Blue Mountains” of Tamil Nadu. At an altitude of 2240 m above sea level, Ooty is a botanical paradise and tea planations in particular dominate the landscape.

The Todas are one of the more prominent tribes of the Nilgiris. Have a look at their wonderful red and black embroideries at the Green Shop near Ooty Club or at the govt. shop near Charring Cross. Do pick up your share of homemade Ooty chocolatesfrom the main market street. You can try King Star which has made Ooty chocolates famous.

The best way to enjoy Ooty is by driving around in the hills, taking tea stops in the little villages and hamlets that you drive through…the views once you step out of the main town centre of Ooty are breathtaking!

Coonoor

Coonoor is a lovely hill station near Ooty, in the Nilgiri Hills. The Nilgiris are famous for their hill plantations of tea, their fantastic climate and hues of blue the mountains take on at dusk. Coonoor is one of the nicer destinations in the Nilgiris at an altitude of 1800 meters.

There is loads to do in Coonoor. Besides the endless walks one can take, there are some lovely tea/ coffee lounges too. A visit to a Tea Plantation and a Tea Factory are a nice relaxing way to spend an afternoon. For the more touristically inclined, there’s the Dolphin’s Nose View Point and Catherine Falls.

Munnar

Munnar is best described as the Darjeeling of the south, only much quieter. Sprawling tea gardens, soothing weather and quaint churches characterise the beautiful hill station.

Not surprisingly, it is a highly popular honeymoon destination!

Munnar is an idyllic place that has several scenic spots from where you can either go for small treks or just gaze at the misty valleys around. Walking through lush plantations of tea, coffee or cardamom is another activity that you must indulge in while here. Don’t forget to sample the different teas produced here. Devikullam is a great place to spend a day. You can also go fishing at the Sita Devi Lake here. The Eravikulam National Park is a must visit, especially if you have never seen the Nilgiri Tahr. The Mattupetty Dam is an ideal picnic spot, and you can also visit its famous, highly specialised dairy farm close by.

Yours Truly

www.namastay.in

+919920. 807280

somewhereintheworldtoday: A Carpet of flowers at the foot of...

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 05:42:12 -0400

somewhereintheworldtoday:

A Carpet of flowers at the foot of Mount Fuji…

The Fuji “Shiba-sakura” festival is a form of Japanese “flower viewing” festival held sometime during April and May when the flowers are blossoming. Incredible carpets of small red, white, pink and purple flowers bloom as far as the eye can see with the awesome Mount Fuji acting as a backdrop.

More on Shibasakura by Somewhere in the world today…

Picture: Fuji Shibazakura (Moss Pink) by YYZDez, on Flickr

Watch Ooty come alive this May during the Ooty Summer Festival....

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 11:37:00 -0400

Watch Ooty come alive this May during the Ooty Summer Festival. Lovely flower show at the Botanical Gardens, cultural events, boat racing and trekking are some of the activities to look forward to! Needless to say, Ooty will also be an absolute relief from the May heat!

Yours Truly

www.namastay.in

We would love to hear from you!

Write to us on CustomerCare@namastay.in or;

Call us on +91 9920. 807280.

condenasttraveler: The Best Places to Stay in the World |...

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 11:35:00 -0400

condenasttraveler:

The Best Places to Stay in the World | Mandarin Oriental Dhara Devi in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Yours Truly www.namastay.in We would love to hear from...

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 13:46:00 -0400

Yours Truly

www.namastay.in

We would love to hear from you!

Write to us on CustomerCare@namastay.in or;

Call us on +91 9920. 807280.

5 things to do in Munnar!

Sun, 01 Apr 2012 13:42:00 -0400

Every place has its romantic nuances and these are what a traveler wants to capture in his memories. We thought of compiling a list of all the things that are unique to Munnar. We highly recommend this list because we too have been reminded of why this Indian Hill Station is so special, all over again!

1. Unending expanse of green - The sprawling Tea Plantations in God’s Own Country!

To stand at the Top Station - the uppermost located Railway Station a short distance from Munnar and take in the most pleasant views. To walk back down along the road with a loved one.

The Kolukkumalai tea estate claims to be the highest in the world. It is situated at an altitude of 7130 feet. The scene from here is totally mesmerizing.

2. Wildlife for the adventurous - Spot the wild animals in their peaceful habitat!

Driving down to the Rajamalai National Park from Munnar takes approximately 45 minutes. This Park covers about 97 square kilometers of the Rajamalai Hills and has an abundance of flora and fauna for all to savor. Here you can catch sight of the Nilgiri Thar or Hemitragas hylocres, which is an endangered species of mountain goats, the lion-tailed macaque, tigers, the Atlas moth and leopards. The gently sloping grasslands will overwhelm you.

At many more such National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries you could spot the Nilgiri tahr, Nilgiri langur, lion tailed macaque, Asian elephant, Indian bison, tiger, leopard,wild dogs, mangoose, otter, large brown flying squirrel, mouse deer, sambar, barking deer etc.

3. Exotic Birds for the Bird Lovers - Watch these birdies fly past your nose!

While walking alongside the cardamom groves, you will spot the Great Malabar Hornbills. Red Whiskered bulbuls are everywhere.

The Western Ghats endemic are India’s tiniest sun birds found in the Shola Forests of Munnar. Please see the picture below.

Those who revel in bird watching should head straight to the Salim Ali bird sanctuary. People from all over the world are drawn towards this place for the Malabar grey & Pied Hornbill , Malabar black woodpecker, Blue winged parakeet, Flame-throated Bulbul, Dark-fronted & Rufous Babbler, Malabar Whistling Thrush, Malabar Trogon, Crimson-throated Barbet, White-bellied Blue Flycatcher, White-bellied Treepie, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Grey Jungle Fowl, Grey-headed and Yellow-browed Bulbul, Crimson-backed Sunbird, Spot-bellied Eagle Owl, Black throated Munia, Crimson-fronted Barbet, Jerdon’s Nightjar, Southern Hill Myna, Sri Lanka Frogmouth, Black Baza, Black Eagle, Great-eared Nightjar, Dollar Bird, Red Spurfowl, Lesser Yellow-nape Woodpecker, Speckled Piculet, Chestnut-winged Cuckoo, Drongo Cuckoo, Vernal Hanging Parrot, Mottled Wood Owl, Green Imperial Pigeon, Crested Goshawk, Malayan Night Heron, Indian Blue Robin.

Yes! A bird watcher’s dream come true!

4. Waterfalls and Eco Points - A picnic you will never forget!

Have a picnic lunch at Echo Point at Metupetty dam, take a Boat Ride on the Metupetty dam lake. Enjoy an Elephant Ride on main road between echo point and the dam wall!

Be sure to visit the Indo - Swiss Dairy Project on the main road to Matupetty Dam. Cattle grazing freely on the rolling hills in the vast farm campus will be a good experience. A great milestone was the evolution of the Swiss Brown cross breed of cattle that is perfectly suited to the conditions of Kerala. The Indo - Swiss diary farm is a landmark in the field of cattle rearing in Kerala.

Kundala Dam is ravishing. Golf enthusiasts can catch a game or two as there is a Golf Course nearby.

5. Cultural Heritage of Munnar - The prehistoric burial sites - Muniyara Dolmens - near Marayoor, the Punarjani Traditional Village and the CSI Christ Church!

The Dolmens Muniyaras are a part of Megalithic Age and were burial chambers. It was made of four stones placed on edges and roofed by a fifth one called the capstone.

Punarjani means rebirth. This traditional village aims to nurture the rich and varied traditions and cultural heritage of Kerala, in Munnar. It has two theaters conducting daily shows of Kalarippayattu - the most ancient martial art of Kerala and Kathakali - one of the oldest and the most exquisite theatre forms in India.

Don’t we adore a quiet peaceful visit to a church? CSI Christ Church is small and charming!

Built of rough-hewn granite with un-plastered walls, it was constructed by the British in 1910. The stained glass windows depicting the saints and Biblical characters lends the church its unique charm. It has a number of brass plaques in memory of British era tea planters.

Yours Truly

www.namastay.in

We would love to hear from you!

Write to us on CustomerCare@namastay.in or;

Call us on +91 9920. 807280.

Largest Elephant Pageant in God’s Own Country :: Watch...

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 11:03:00 -0400

Largest Elephant Pageant in God’s Own Country :: Watch more than 60 Elephants adorned with make-up and jewellery, line up to be judged on one of the oldest Temple Festivals in Kerala. Other attractions include drum concerts, ornamental parasol displays, and fireworks. The festival is a huge cultural event that runs through the night with exuberant celebrations. The Festival starts 4th April and goes on till the first week of May!

Yours Truly

www.namastay.in

We would love to hear from you!

Write to us on CustomerCare@namastay.in or;

Call us on +91 9920. 807280.

A typical South Indian meal is known to be hearty, wholesome and...

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 13:02:34 -0400

A typical South Indian meal is known to be hearty, wholesome and colorful. It starts with the servings of an array of mouth watering Indian pickles. It moves on to some flavorsome Dal which is the heart of all Indian meals. Then starts the generous variety of vegetable curries. Grated coconut, nuts, spices, some secret ingredients handed down from the great grandmother and fresh coriander give these curries a unique flavor. Apart from being delicious, these curries are nutritious and full of goodness!

Then come heaps of rice!The first stage of a South Indian meal consists of vegetable curries, Dal and rice. The second stage consists of rice with Sambar. Sambar is nothing but Dal in a more soupy consistency with plenty of tamarind or tomato puree. The aromatic Sambar is supposed to help you digest this three coursed meal. The third stage consists of rice with plenty of fresh curd or yogurt.

Curd rice, as it is famously called, is supposed to help you keep your body cool. South India is known for its scorching heat and humidity! Curd rice is one of the things that help their bodies survive this heat.

At the end of this meaningful meal, you are expected to wash your hands on the banana leaf with your glass of water! A loud burp is a welcome sound that satisfies your host! A contented smile will also do.

Our country men are very grand in their hospitality and make sure you eat well. These king-sized meals are quite modest as they call themselves ‘mini meals’!

Do visit our awesome country and experience it the authentic way with our stays.

Enjoy the video!

Yours Truly

www.namastay.in

We would love to hear from you!

Write to us on CustomerCare@namastay.in or;

Call us on +91 9920. 807280.

This stay is a unique combination of eco friendly luxury...

Sat, 24 Mar 2012 11:20:00 -0400

This stay is a unique combination of eco friendly luxury accommodation, organic produce and wild life experiences located on a 140 acre organic estate.

This plantation stay has 3 bungalows on the estate:

The Estate House
This bungalow has 2 guest rooms, the Mosaic Room and the Estate Room. Both the rooms are located on the first floor. The Mosaic Room has a King size bed and an exquisite handmade mosaic bath. The Estate Room has two single beds which can be combined to form a double bed. There is a kitchen, living room, reception and lounge on the ground floor.

The Pepper House
This bungalow has 3 rooms: the Family Room, the Panorama Room and the Studio. The Family Room and the Panorama Room are located on the First Floor and the Studio is on the ground floor with a separate entrance. The Family Room and the Panorama Room have two single beds which can be combined to form a double bed and the Studio has one King size bed.

The Hornbill House
This bungalow has 2 rooms: the Jackfruit Room and the Waterfall Room. The Jackfruit Room is located on the first floor, has a balcony and a King size bed. The Waterfall Room is located on the ground floor, has a King size bed which can also be used as a Twin bed. There is also a living room, a pantry, dining area and a balcony located on the ground Floor. Both rooms have a view of the waterfall in the monsoons, especially the Jackfruit room where the bath overlooks the waterfall.

Food
For breakfast, eggs & toast with butter and jam is served along with a South Indian preparartion. For Lunch/Dinner there are two vegetarian dishes and one non vegetarian dish with rice and chapatis. All meals re served in the dining room at the Estate House. The distance from the Hornbill House to the Estate House is 300 mts and from the Pepper House to the Estate House it is 75 mts.

Activities
There are a number of exciting activities in and around the property like tea/coffee plantation tour, hiking, bird spotting and forest treks. Wildlife such as elephants and bears occasionally visit the property and bison are almost always there. Enjoy the view of the forest from the machaan at the edge of the property.

Toy Train
The toy train runs from Mettupalayam to Ooty via Coonoor in the Nilgiri Hills. The train leaves Mettupalayam at 7:10 am and arrives in Ooty at noon. The train leaves Ooty at 3 pm and arrives Mettupalayam at 6:35 pm. Guest who would like to enjoy a ride on the toy train can book their tickets online on http://www.irctc.co.in/.

Environmentally Responsible

Being eco-friendly, the accommodation uses solar lighting, bio mass water heaters, water saving devices, reclaimed wood and bamboo furniture and low energy appliances.

Yours Truly

www.namastay.in

We would love to hear from you!

CustomerCare@namastay.in

Ph :: +91 9920. 807280

Top 5 Summer Destinations in India

Sat, 24 Mar 2012 11:07:00 -0400

Dharamshala

Dalhousie

Nestled in the beautiful Chamba valley, Dalhousie is its crowning glory. A colonial retreat popular in pre-independence days, it retains its popularity till date.

Palampur

Palampur is a beautiful hill station in the Kangra Valley. Cradled in the midst of tea gardens and pine trees, this place is believed to have a healing climate.

Almora

A picturesque hill town in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand at a height of 1638 metres, Almora has grown from a hamlet to a bustling tourist town.

Coonoor

Yours Truly

www.namastay.in

We would love to hear from you!

CustomerCare@namastay.in

Ph :: +91 9920. 807280