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Dear Travel Partners,
As we step into August, it's time to gear up for an exciting new season of travel and exploration in East and North East India. This is a time of preparation, anticipation, and renewed energy. Our team at Clubside Tours and Travels is ready to guide you through the wonders that await in this vibrant region.
In this issue, we offer a preview of the upcoming season's highlights, from the lush green landscapes of Assam to the cultural festivals of Sikkim and the pristine beaches of the Andaman Islands. Each destination is meticulously prepared to welcome you with open arms and unforgettable experiences.
Look out for our curated itineraries, tailored to provide immersive and authentic experiences, and our updated travel resources to ensure your journey is seamless and enjoyable.
As we prepare for the new season, we invite you to join us in exploring the hidden treasures and breathtaking beauty of the East and North East. Let's make this season the most memorable one yet.
Warm Regards,
Amit Periwal
Clubside Tours and Travels
Upcoming Festivals
Ziro Festival of Music
Date: 26th 29th September.
Celebrated at: Arunachal Pradesh.
Significance: The Ziro Festival of Music is an annual outdoor music festival held in the scenic Ziro Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, India. It features indie, folk, and alternative music against the backdrop of lush green landscapes. The festival promotes cultural exchange, sustainability, and showcases both local and international talent, making it a unique and vibrant event.
Nepali Bhasa Manyata Diwas
Date: 20th August.
Celebrated at: North Bengal and Sikkim.
Significance: Nepali Bhasa Manyata Diwas, or Nepali Language Recognition Day, commemorates the Nepali language as a language with official status in India. This milestone unified diverse ethnic groups, promoting national unity and identity. Celebrations include cultural programs and literary activities, highlighting the importance of preserving and promoting the Nepali language.
Sector Updates
The Belgadia Palace, Mayurbhanj
- 04 Heritage Standard Room (Ground floor).
- 01 Heritage Deluxe Room (Ground floor).
- 05 Heritage Jr. Suite (01 Ground floor + 04 01st Floor).
- The Belgadia Palace is an 18th century victorian brick-built double-storey structure offering 10 heritage bedrooms with modern amenities and comforts.
- Guests can stroll through 7 acres of mango orchards, outdoor patios, and gardens nothing like the smell of monsoons hitting the red laterite soil as you lounge in the verandah enjoying the natural landscape!
Cherry Blossom Festival in Shillong
- The Cherry Blossom Festival in Shillong is a captivating celebration of nature's beauty and cultural heritage. This year, the festival will be held on 15th and 16th November, transforming Shillong into a picturesque haven with cherry trees adorned in delicate pink and white blossoms.
- The festival offers a stunning display of cherry blossoms against the backdrop of Shillong's rolling hills and scenic landscapes.
- Featuring a range of activities, including traditional music and dance performances, local food stalls offering delicious treats, and vibrant parades that showcase the cultural richness of the region.
Road Update -NH10
- The Gangtok to Siliguri road (NH10) is closed from July 13th.
- Vehicle movement on NH10, which connects West Bengal with Sikkim, has been halted indefinitely due to restoration work following continuous rainfall and a landslide at the Selfie Dhara viewpoint in Kalimpong, West Bengal. Traffic is being diverted via Mungsong 17th Mile, Lava, and Gurubathan for Siliguri and vice versa.
Night Flights Now Available at Port Blair Airport
- Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair is now equipped for night flight operations.
- This new development brings more flexibility and convenience for travel plans, allowing travelers to arrive and depart even after the sun goes down.
- Upgraded infrastructure ensures a secure and efficient travel experience.
Independence Day in Kalimpong
One of the longest Independence Day celebrations in the country is organised in Kalimpong, West Bengal. The main Independence Day celebration will take place at the Mela Ground, which is in the heart of Kalimpong town, with 18 schools and colleges taking part in a march-past, band-display and other events. After the school events senior division football finals are held. On August 16, a cultural programme by various academies and a band display competition among various schools will be held. On August 15, no vehicles will be allowed to enter Kalimpong town.
Important to know!
North Sikkim is currently not accessible. Lachung, Yumthang, Zero Point, Lachen, Gurudongmar, and Kalapathar will remain inaccessible for a few more months due to ongoing road restoration work.
DE-CODING PARADISE UNEXPLORED!
Mechuka, A valley in Arunachal Pradesh
- Mechuka, nestled in the picturesque valleys of Arunachal Pradesh near the Indo-Tibet border, is a hidden gem surrounded by the Eastern Himalayas. Known for its pristine natural beauty.
- Mechuka features snow-capped mountains, verdant forests, and meandering rivers.
- Visitors can enjoy trekking, mountain biking, and water-based activities on the Siyom River. Mechuka's remote location makes it a tranquil retreat, and the journey there, with its winding roads and breathtaking scenery, is an adventure.
Walk in College Street, Kolkata
Duration: 02 hours for walk & 03 hours from hotel to hotel.
Distance Covered: 02 kms (approx.).
Pick Up Point: Hotel.
Walk Starting Point: Medical College.
Season: October - March.
Suitable For: 01 to 08 pax.
Inclusions: AC Transport, Local guide, Mineral Water & Incidentals.
Places Covered: Medical College - Calcutta University - Asutosh Museum - Mirzapur Street Eateries - Radhanath Mullick Lane - College Square - Sanskrit College - Presidency College - Indian Coffee House - Old book shops and eating houses - College Street Market.
Discover the Thrill of SEAKART at Corbyn Cove Beach
- At Corbyn Cove Beach in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, SEAKART offers a unique blend of excitement and safety, perfect for all ages-SEAKART is the ultimate water sport experience!
- Ideal for families and adventure seekers alike, SEAKART allows you to navigate the stunning waters and soak in the breathtaking views of Corbyn Cove Beach. Whether you are looking for a fun-filled family outing or an adrenaline-pumping ride, SEAKART promises a memorable day at the beach.
Flag down ceremony at Bangla border
- From Siliguri, approximately 16 km or about a 45-minute drive away, lies the Bangladesh border known as Banglabandha, where you can witness a flag-lowering ceremony.
- Timing is key for this worthwhile event, which lasts 15-20 minutes and provides chairs for spectators. It takes place only on Tuesdays and Saturdays at 4:30 pm, with entry starting at 4:00 pm. Foreigners are allowed and must show their passport and visa. There is no entry fee.
Singshore Bridge (Sunguray Pool):
Singshore Bridge, with an height of over 100 m and 240 m in length, is the highest bridge in Sikkim and the second highest bridge in Asia. It is truly a man made marvel that offers the spectacular base view of immense greenery that makes it difficult to distinguish between the lowlands and the mountains. You can feel the thrill when you are standing in the middle of the bridge and the strong wind blows. The river flowing through the uneven rocks seems breathtaking along with the effusive sound of the waterfalls. It is one among the oldest bridge that connects two hills and shortens the travel time as well as the distance for the trekkers. This engineers triumph is certainly one of the most popular tourist destination in Sikkim.
Flavours of the East
Kala Bhat with Kumura
In Assam, black beans and pumpkin come together to create a delicious and nutritious dish that reflects the region's culinary traditions. The combination of earthy black beans and sweet, tender pumpkin makes for a hearty and comforting meal.
Method
- Soak black beans overnight.
- Peel, seed, and cut pumpkin into cubes.
- Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in mustard oil.
- Add spices such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander for flavor.
- Add soaked black beans and water or vegetable broth; simmer until beans start to soften.
- Add pumpkin cubes and cook until both beans and pumpkin are tender.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with steamed rice or roti.
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