Best Places in India to Discover Under Rs. 10000

India as a country has all kinds of experiences to offer to you. Depends on you, which one you decide to undertake and absorb completely. We have realized one thing though- people love to spend more on experiences than places. So, at Sumera Travel we came up with a list of amazing places where you would want to spend on. These places are picked keeping in mind that you would choose to get here by train or bus and not flights. Also, most of the hotels recommended here are not luxurious, but amazing enough to give you a perfect experience of exploring the place. The prices of the hotels may vary depending on the time you decide to visit. Check out this list of places in India that you can visit under Rs. 10k. 

1. Dharamshala and McleodGunj

Image Source: Flickr/Grootscholte

Somehow, your mind jumps to spirituality as soon as you think about Dharamshala or McleodGunj. The snow clad ranges visible from the mesmerizing town offer you views that do complete justice to the beauty of Himachal Pradesh. McLeodGunj is a suburb in Dharamshala and is easily the biggest highlight of the town. The best part is that, some of the most beautiful attractions here are completely free of cost. No reason to not visit a place that hardly takes anything from you but gives you an experience of a lifetime in return!

Hotel Recommendation: Snow View, Approx Tariff - Rs.1400                                               

Attractions not to be missed:

Bhagsu Falls - Free Entry

Dip Tse Chok Ling Gompa - Free Entry

*Tariff may vary

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2. Pushkar

Image Source: Flickr/JasonRufus 

Pushkar is the perfect getaway for anybody who wants to connect with Rajasthan’s cultural roots. Rajasthan is known for its deserts, safaris, royalty and more than anything- for the coloRs. of liveliness that you can witness here. Pushkar is one such place. Right from the Pushkar mela, to the camel safaris, everything is so reasonable and most importantly it basically means taking back a hoard of memories from the interior of Rajasthan.

Hotel Recommendation: Teerth Palace, Approx Tariff - Rs.1500

Attractions not to be missed:

Pushkar Lake - Free Entry

Pushkar Camel Safari Tour - Entry Fee - Rs. 350 (For one hour)

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3. Gokarna

Image source: Flickr/saltychocolate

Gokarna is the perfect amalgamation of religion and recreation. A small temple town located in Karnataka offers a wide variety of water sports as well. It is the one of the most sought after beach destinations in the India. Famous for its beautiful white-ish sands and blue waters, Gokarna is perfect because for the kind of experience it offers, it’s a surprise that it does not burn a hole in your pocket! 

Hotel Recommendation: Lotus Beach Hotel Resorts, Approx Tariff - Rs.800

Attractions not to be missed:

Om Beach - Free Entry

Mirjan Fort - Free Entry

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4. Puducherry 

Image Source: Flickr/Arvind Thampi 

Puducherry commonly known as Pondicherry is one of the most famous union territories of India. There is a lot of hint of all the cultures that came in over time to Pondicherry. You will see a lot of French, British, Portuguese and in some places even Dutch influences. It is a beautiful place to visit as it offers you a very unconventional experience which is historical and yet charmingly modern in its own ways. 

Hotel Recommendation: Lotus Bay View Hotel, Approx Tariff - Rs 2700

Attractions not to be missed:

Puducherry Museum - Entry Fee:- Rs 10

Sri Aurobindo Ashram - Free Entry

Auroville - Entry Fee:- Rs. 10.00

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5. Mysore 

Image Source: mysoreguide.net

Neighboring the plush Bangalore lies the humble town of Mysore. Famous for Tipu Sultan’s bravery and valor- this place is still known for its unique history. The town is really small but definitely one of the best tourist destinations in the country. The air of the city is completely different and it has a lot to offer to you in terms of the light show, the beautiful gardens and a lot of other attractions.

Hotel Recommendation: Hotel M.B International, Approx Tariff - Rs.1000

Attractions not to be missed:

Mysore Palace - Entry Fee:- Rs 40

Brindavan Gardens - Entry Fee:- Rs 15

Mysore is definitely one of the most historical, royal and exciting places to visit. Planning a trip? 

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6. Gangtok

Image Source: indiatoday.in

Gangtok is one of the most underrated destinations in our country. It has some breathtaking sights to offer to everybody who wants to explore this quaint town. Today, it is famous as one of the most religious Buddhist pilgrimage sites. It also serves as the perfect base for Himalayan treks that begin from Sikkim. You will see a lot of influence of the Tibetan culture here. One thing is for sure, for the money that you have to spend here- it gives you a lot in return. The chance to explore yourself, understand yourself in the midst of the monasteries is something you should definitely not miss out on! 

Hotel Recommendation: Mayal Retreat, Approx Tariff - Rs.2000

Attractions not to be missed:

Lake Tsomgo - Free Entry

Himalayan Zoological Park - Entry Fee:- Rs. 25

7. Khajuraho 

Image source: youramazingplaces.com

Madhya Pradesh has the most amazing tourist ads. You can see that people of MP are very proud of their cultural heritage and the most important reason is- Khajuraho. Khajuraho basically offers you a lot in terms of aesthetics. A lovely set of temples, this place is most definitely a must visit for people who are into art, culture, religion or even simply just out to exploring a completely new and a different place. Honestly, India has some amazing sites that have been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites- this one most definitely is one of them.

Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Surya, Approx Tariff - Rs.800

Attractions not to be missed:

Kandariya Mahadev Temple - Entry Fee:- Rs 300

Chitragupta Temple - Entry fee:- Rs 300

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8. Goa 

Image Source: Flickr/Santimano 

Honestly, that is definitely the first option that comes to your mind every time you have even a little saving. Also, Goa is the first option for literally any age group. The beaches cater to all kinds of crowd, the clubs make the city lively- the shacks are the essence and the churches are probably the most beautiful in the country. This one goes without saying, any body with money and time on their hand takes the first bus, train, flight or plans a road trip to Goa. It is easily accessible and definitely one of the best options to get away in a reasonable rate. 

Plan your trip: A go around Goa

Hotel Recommendation: Veeniola Holiday Home, Approx Tariff - Rs.700

Attractions not to be missed:

Aguada fort - Free Entry

Candolim Church - Free Entry

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9. Alleppey 

Image Source: Photomitra.in

If somebody gave me the chance to discover the backwaters of Kerala in under 10 k, trust me I would take it right away. Alleppey is also known as Alappuzha and offers you unparalleled views of the backwaters. A quaint town, in the midst of coconut trees and unending sea, Alleppey is definitely one of the best options to get away to! You can spend hours on the beach, or hours even staring deep into the horizon and not get bored at all. Everything right from the house boats to the snake boats, have a lot of Kerala culture filled in them and it is definitely worth trying out once. Remember to put on Lungis to completely absorb the beauty Alleppey has to offer to you.

Hotel Recommendation: Illikkalam Lake Resort, Approx Tariff - Rs.1000

Attractions not to be missed:

Alapuzzha Beach - Free Entry

Ambalapuzha Shree Krishna Temple - Free Entry

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10. Hampi

Image Source: Flickr/travelsethu

Hampi can easily be described as a land lost in time, but Hampi’s historical excellence is almost unmatched. Even the remains, that do not really look ruined have lovely stories to tell. The temples here are of high architectural value and teach us a lot about how architecture was of utmost importance in the olden times. Hampi is basically a great option, if you are looking at travelling through times and exploring a culture that in a way evolved, but also lost a major part of it in the pages of history.

f history.

Plan a Tour to the Ruins at Hampi

Hotel Recommendation: Kishkinda Heritage Resort, Approx Tariff - Rs.1000

Attractions not to be missed:

Vithala temple complex - Free Entry

Elephant Stables - Free Entry

Kedarnath Yatra 2016 to Begin from May 9

On the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri, the dates for the commencement of pilgrimage of Kedarnath were declared. According to the reports, the opening day of the shrine’s portal has been fixed as May 9, 2016.

At early Monday morning in Onkareshwar Temple, Ukhimath, the Panchang was calculated, and May 9 was set by Mandir Samiti headed by Rawal (head priest) of the temple Bhima Shankar Ling. Kedarnath, which remains shut for nearly six months in the winter, will be open for the devotees after the performance of mandatory rituals at 7 AM of the scheduled day. It is to be noted that the date of the opening of the temple is always declared on the occasion of Mahashivratri and the closing date on Bhaidooj.

Kedarnath is one of the four shrines of the Chhota Char Dham Yatra circuit in Uttarakhand. The temple was the worst hit of the flash floods in the state in June 2013 but with constant efforts of the Uttarakhand Government and its people, the temple and the routes leading to it have been almost reconstructed.

Breaking the Myth- South Indian Food is definitely much more than Idli Dosa!

Image source: Youtube

90 percent of the North Indians are of the view that South Indian food is all about Idli and Dosa. But just like every region’s cuisine has a plethora of dishes to offer, the same goes true for south Indian food as well. Gorge on some of the non-veg dishes of South India and they would indeed rival the standard butter chicken for that matter. Let us see how south India is equally a haven for non-vegetarians as the North India is:

1. Kerala Karimeen Fry

Image source: kothamally.com

Karimeen or the Pearl Spotted Fish is a rich offering from the land of Kerala in South India. As for its preparation, the fish is marinated in spices and fried on a low flame until it achieves a deep red hue. 

2. Chicken Chettinad

Image source: lekhafoods.com

A well known offering from Tamil Nadu, Chicken Chettinad demands a unique way of cooking. A variety of marinated spices are applied as a paste on the chicken which is then cooked until it is tender and super juicy.

3. Aila Curry

Image source: yummytummyaarthi.com

Mackerel Fish Curry or popularly known as Alia curry is conspicuous as it tastes best when served a day after it is cooked. The fish is slow cooked in a clay pot which allows it to absorb all the flavour. Thanks to its flawless blend of sourness and spice due to the dried Kudampuli (Gambooge), eating this dish can be heavenly.

4. Prawns Kuzhambu

Image source: ramnarestaurant.nl

A Tamil Nadu dish, this mouth wateing recipe is a perfect example of the typical "heat" of South Indian cuisine. The soft meat of the prawn along with the uniquely marinated masala provides a flavour rich in taste.

5. Kerala Chicken Roast

Image source: morningcable.com

So roasted chicken is not just limited to North India! In South India, Chicken marinated in spices is refrigerated before frying in a low flame until it is golden brown. It is then cooked with vegetables and coconut milk until the gravy becomes thick. 

6. Chicken Salna

Image source: desifoodbuzz.com

Native to Tamil Nadu, the ingredients used are more or less common but it is the uniqueness of the gravy that makes it special. Instead of being thick, the gravy is a fragrant and watery and hence can be served with rice as well.

7. Kori Gassi

Image source: fabfriday.com

Popularly known as Mangalorean Chicken Curry, this recipe from Karnataka is served with grated coconut and is rendered hot due to the excessive use of red chilli powder.

8. Hyderabadi Chicken Biryani

Image source: indiafoodnetwork.in

Who would not have heard of this mesmerizing dish? This true blue biryani has several varieties across South Indian but none more famous than or as tasty as the Hyderabadi Biryani. Prepared with chicken or mutton, this biryani has historical significance as well as it was used to be the food of the Nizams and Mughals. 

9. Bommidayila Pulusu

Image source: solutioncountry.com

A traditional fish recipe from Andhra Pradesh, this one is is all about the spices. Preparation is neither time consuming nor difficult but if you can get the spices right, you can whip up a classic!

10. Chicken Nizami

Image source: pridehotel.com

Chicken Nizami is mostly eaten with Hydrabadi biryani. Chicken Nizami has a fragrant and rich cream that lends to the natural taste of the chicken. Coconut milk and spices result in its typical orange colour. One of the favourite dishes of nizams.

11. Royyala Iguru

Image source: angler.im

This prawn food from Andhra Pradesh is drier and much spicier. So prepared for a rich tasting experience!

12. Squid Fry

Image source: abowlofcurry.in

Cut into rings, the squid is marinated and fried on medium flame until it is golden brown. The masala-coated rings have a tangy taste in the mouth!

13. Kheema with Coconut Curry

Image source: oyepetu.com

Minced meat cooked in coconut milk! The best preparation can leave you appreciating it like nothing before!

So which of these non vegetarian dishes would you like to try? Let us know.

Madhya Pradesh (MP)

Best Tour of Madhya Pradesh (MP)

Madhya Pradesh abbreviated MP, often known as the Heart of India and this state is also in a central of India. Bhopal is the capital city of MP and Indore is the largest city.

If you give number according state’s area then Madhya Pradesh is the second largest state by area and with over 75 million inhabitants the sixth largest state in India by population. It borders the states of Gujarat to the west, Uttar Pradesh to the northeast, Maharashtra to the south, Rajasthan to the northwest, and Chhattisgarh to the southeast. There are several National Parks in Madhya Pradesh, Pench National Park, Sanjay National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park, Satpura National Park, Satpura National Park, Madhav National Park, Pench National Park Van Vihar National Park, Kanha National Park, Panna National Park and Mandla Plant Fossils National Park.

Madhya Pradesh as a Holiday Destinations

When you are on Madhya Pradesh package tour you have an amazing opportunity to explore ancient  forts and temples. If you want the detailed itinerary for Madhya Pradesh as a Holiday Package then it mentioned in this website. In this tour you can see Kanha, Bhopal, Jabalpur, Pachmarhi, Sanchi, Pachmarhi are the very popular tourist destinations of MP. Pack up your bags and get ready to enjoy Madhya Pradesh Tour Packages – Get best holiday packages and deals on Madhya Pradesh tour and all over India holiday packages at Sumeratravel.

The Best of Madhya Pradesh package involves magnificent places which are known for their historical importance such as Orchha, Khajuraho and Gwalior. The attractive and thick green forests, magnificent mountain ranges, historical monuments and diverse culture of Madhya Pradesh attract tourists from all over the world.

 

This MP tour includes visit to temples like The Varaha, Chaunsath Yogini, Parvati, Lalguan Mahadev, Lakshmana, Matangesvara, Nandi and Vishvanath, Devi Jagdamba, Chitragupta, Kandariya Mahadeo and many more.
Madhya Pradesh is popular in tourist  due to rich history and culture. The beautiful town of Khajuraho famous for its Hindu and Jain temples, situated in the Bundelkhand region. While on a best of Madhya Pradesh tour Khajuraho is a place you must have to visit. During a Madhya Pradesh holiday tour, try out some local sweets like cashew burfi, shikanji, jalebi, lavang lata, khurma, kusli, moong dal ka halwa and sabudana ki khichadi.

Jain-Temples-in-Sonagiri

Some other popular cities of Madhya Pradesh are Ujjain, Jabalpur and Gwalior. Ujjain is an ancient holy city for Hindus. It is very famous for the Kumbh Mela, which is a religious festival and held there every 12 years. In Madhya Pradesh tour packages included visit to Ujjain and its temples.
Enjoy Madhya Pradesh Tour Packages – Get best holiday deals on Madhya Pradesh tour and holiday packages at Sumeratravels. Enjoy Madhya Pradesh Tours, Madhya Pradesh holiday packages.

International Destinations

8 International Destinations That Will Cost Us the Same as an Iphone 6

There are many people in India who fancy buying an iphone 6 even it means spending their precious salaries for it. However, we have a better option for you through which you can spend your money on experiences rather than material possessions. An iphone in India costs somewhere around 50 to 60k! Just imagine if you can spend that money on exploring international destinations how much fun and knowledge that would entail. Let us tell you 8 international destinations that can cost you the same as having an iphone 6. But do keep in mind that this list is meant for people who choose to stay with budget options and plan their trips 5-6 months in advance. 

1. Bhutan

Laden with an element of mystery and magic, Bhutan is considered to be one of the centres of Buddhism. Sharing its borders with India, this country is full of natural as well as cultural beauty that can be visited at budget prices.

Recommended Duration of stay: 6 days

Air Tickets: The best way to reach Bhutan from India is to take a domestic flight to Bagdogra Airport which is the nearest airport to the Bhutan border. The round trip can cost INR 6000 onwards. Take a 5 hour bus journey ahead which could cost approx INR 1900.

Cost of Stay: a decent guesthouse would be available from Rs 500 onwards.

Where to eat: These are good budget restaurants in Bhutan such as Bhutan Kitchen, Bukhari Restaurant, Karma's Coffee and Musk Restaurant that offer good meals at affordable prices.

What to see and do: Places to visit in Bhutan are Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Haa Valley. Attractions cover Monasteries, temples, farm houses, National Memorial Chorten, Takin Zoo and Folk heritage Museum.

Approximate total cost for this trip: INR 40,000

2. Singapore

The bustling commercial centre of Asia, Singapore spoils its visitors with its vibrant energy, recreation options and cruises. Just 5 hours away from India through flight, this is where you will find a large Indian population.

Recommended Duration of Stay: 2 days

Air Tickets: If booked atleast 6 months in advance, the airtickets to Singapore will cost around 25000-26000.

Cost of Stay: A single room can start from INR 2000/ night in a decent budget hotel.

Where to eat: Budget restautants in Singapore: Chopsuey, Ding Dong, Blue Ginger and Zam Zam

What to do and see: Exploring Sentosa, Underwater world or Universal Studios and checking out tourist attractions like Gardens By The Bay, Woodlands, Singapore Flyer, Merlion Bay, Little India.

Approximate total cost for this trip: INR 60,000

3. Indonesia

Straddling the Equator between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean,  Indonesia is the largest archipelago with 18,110 islands.  The largely volcanic nature of the islands here has lead to the creation of tall cloud-swept mountains.  Indonesia’s terrain is populated by rice terraces or rainforest, bright beaches and vivid blue seas that offer as an ideal backdrop against Southeast Asia’s biggest wilderness areas and wildlife sanctuaries.

Recommended Duration of Stay: 4 days

Air Tickets: Air tickets will cost you around 35000. However, the prices can be lower if booked much in advance.

Cost of Stay: There are budget hotels and hostels in Indonesia that cost you around RS 700 per night.Air Tickets: Air tickets will cost you around 35000. However, the prices can be lower if booked much in advance.

Where to eat: Budget Restaurants in Indonesia: Warung (Food Stalls), Lesehan, Kaki-Lima and Warteg.

What to see and do: Bali, Java, Yogyakarta, Jakarta, and Sumatra. Apart from these there are fun activities to indulge in such as Bali Village cycling tour, Spa treatments at places like Anika spa, water sports, and volcano tours.

Approximate total cost for this trip: INR 52,000

In order to visit this enchanting country, plan with us for a perfect itinerary!

4. Vietnam

Exotic and beautiful, Vietnam has come up well in travel industry after ages of obscurity. The country is laden with natural charm and locations that inspire awe .

Recommended Duration of Stay: 3 days

Air Tickets: The round trip flight tickets can cost INR 30,000 onwards when planned 4-6 months in advance. Air Asia also offers budget flights from India to Vietnam.

Cost of Stay:  Ho Chi Minh City offers dormitory rooms starting from as low as INR 400 per night. There are also decent hotels whose single room ranges from INR 700 onwards per night.

Where to eat: Budget Restaurants in Vietnam: Cha Ca Street, Nguyen Truong, Spicy Restaurant and Ganh Hao

Things to do: Local market tours, island tours and wildlife tours. Hanoi, Kayakking at Ha Long Bay, Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh City.

Approximate total cost for this trip: INR 48,000

5. Thailand

Thailand is perhaps the nearest most happening destination from India that can be visited at budget costs. This country is known for tropical beaches, opulent royal palaces, ancient ruins and ornate temples displaying figures of Buddha, a revered symbol. 

Recommended Duration of Stay: 6 Days

Air Tickets: The round trip flight tickets can cost around 25000, if boarding from New Delhi or Mumbai.

Cost of Stay:  Thailand is full of budget staying options that cost as low as INR 573 per night per person.

Where to eat: Thailand is famous for its street food but other budget restaurants are: Om Garden Café and Baan Benjarong

Places To Visit: Bangkok, Pattaya and coral islands, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai . Must see attractions will include Ancient Buddha temples, floating markets and elephant show etc.

Approximate total cost for this trip: INR 43,000

6. Qatar

Qatar beams with heritage souqs, world-class Museum of Islamic Art, and lyrical sand dunes. All this offers an excellent introduction to the Arab world that waits to allure its visitors. The tradition here meets with modernity that stands evident with world class skyscrapers and a dazzling skyline.

Recommended Duration of Stay: 4 days

Air Tickets: The roundabout trip to Qatar will cost you approximately 25000 if booked 6 months in advance.

Cost of Stay: There are budget hotels in Qatar that offer stay at Rs 1000 per night.

Where to eat: Budget restaurants in Qatar: Al-Mourjan, Al-Tawash Restaurant and Batteel Café

What to do and see: Doha, Dhal Al Misfir, Khor Al Adaid Natural Reserves and Zubarah Fort. If you are an adventure seeker, you can opt for helicopter rides, dune bashing and camel rides.

Approximate total cost for this trip: INR 57,000

7. Sri- Lanka

The endless beaches that combine with temples, wildlife sanctuaries, memorable scenery and cultural highlights is what makes up Sri Lanka’s panoramic view!

Recommended Duration of Stay: 5 days

Air Tickets: The roundabout tickets From Delh cost INR 20,000 onwards. However, the best option is to take a flight from Chennnai that costs around INR 8000 onwards

Cost of Stay: There are dormitory style accommodations that starts for INR 600/night. Similarly in other places like Kandy, Bentota and so on, hotel rooms can range from INR 1000 onwards per night.

Where to eat: Budget restaurants in Sri-Lanka: Yaal Restaurant, Bombay Sweet Mahal, Ceylon Tea Moments and Hansa Coffee.

What to see and do:  Colombo, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Bentota. Attractions include Temple of tooth Relic, boating or fishing on Lake Gregory, Seetha Eliya garden and temple from famous Ramayana, turtle hatchery etc.

Approximate total cost for this trip: INR 54,000

8. Egypt

Just imagine if you could such an ancient city at budget prices. Egypt is one of those countries that have suffered the ravages of time and still have remained unscathed!

Recommended Duration of Visit: 5 Days

Air Tickets: Kuwait Airways from Mumbai: INR 29,500

Cost of Stay: INR 5000 for 5 days at Cecilia Hostel, Cairo

Where to eat: Budget restaurants in Egypt: Mohammed Ahmed Restaurant, Sofra Restaurant & Café and Kadoura

What to see and do: Tourist attraction includes the Pyramids at Giza while other tourist cities include Alexandria, Aswan, the Red Sea and Sinai.

Approximate total cost for this trip: INR 60,000

So which one of these countries you think are worthy enough to forsake your iphone for!