Rising Stories in the East, July 2024

Tsungremong Festival

Travel Tips

Indians need no permit for Sikkim except for restricted areas of Changu Lake Baba Mandir Nathu La Pass and North Sikkim for which valid Indian photo ID address proof is required (Aadhar and PAN are not accepted). Foreigners require an Inner Line permit to enter Sikkim which can be issued at the border or DM office in Darjeeling. Restricted/Protected Area permits are required for foreigners to visit Changu Lake, North Sikkim, or Trek in West Sikkim for which a minimum of 2 foreigners have to travel together, guide mandatory. Nahum La Pass and Baba Mandir Gurudongma Lake are not allowed for foreigners to visit.

Sector Updates

Gulmohar Royals, Cooch Behar

• Location: Bangchatra Road, Cooch Behar, India, West Bengal
  Hotel category:4*
  Rooms available: Standard Room, Suite Room, Deluxe RoomFurnished with elegant suite rooms infused with the finest interior designs and alfresco dining areas, the hotel will induce you to immerse in absolute comfort and luxury.

Kathmandu to Pakyong Flights Soon

• In a boost to connectivity, Nepal based Buddha Airlines is all set to start flight services between Kathmandu and Pakyong in Sikkim soon, as per Nepali media sources.
•  Pakyong Airport is also set to receive a major infra boost as it will be connected by a double lane, all-weather road very soon. In this regard, Airport Director SK Singh has initiated the process with the Sikkim government.

Relimai Retreat, Kalimpong

• Location: Relimai Retreat, Saureni, Bara Bhalukhop, Kalimpong, West Bengal
• A picturesque retreat surrounded by nature, verdant views, and a flurry of birds. Enjoy glistening views of Mount Kanchendzonga and the Teesta River.
• Relimai Retreat in Kalimpong offers three luxurious bedrooms on a sprawling 2.5 acres of natural forest.
• This boutique stay features a stone-clad exterior, plush interiors, a modular kitchen, a fireplace, ceiling lights, and colour-coordinated décor, making it a warm and inviting home away from home.

Commercial Paragliding Launches in Kurseong

• Kurseong Aero Club a company with the support from the Tourism department of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), has started this adventure sport facility in Kurseong.
• The first ever commercial paragliding in Kurseong commenced with two flights on Sunday, June 2nd.
• The booking counter is located next to the Rohini Guest House, from where transportation is provided to the take-off point 3 km away. After landing, participants are transported back to the booking counter area.

Interesting Facts

DE-CODING PARADISE UNEXPLORED!

Chimney Strawberries Garden & Park (IOF)

• Located in Kurseong, Chimney Strawberries Garden & Park (IOF) is 25 km from Tiger Hill, 22 km from Ghoom Monastery, and 22 km from the Tibetan Buddhist Monastery in Darjeeling.
• Enjoy various activities and facilities, including photography, organic berry picking, enjoying natural environments, sweet hill strawberries, dry picnics, relaxation spots, exotic hill product marketing, organic farming knowledge, and fresh strawberry juice.

Mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Baje Kadamtala Ghat, Kolkata

• Baje Kadamtala Ghat is renowned for its rich history and tranquil surroundings, making it a special place for offerings to the Ganges.
• The ghat's traditional style of puja, accompanied by devotional songs and prayers, brings a sense of peace and reverence to visitors.
• Similar to the aartis in Varanasi and Rishikesh but with a touch of traditional Bengal, the Ganga aarti at Ramakrishnapur Ghat features Bengali hymns and beautiful rituals performed with flowers and incense.

Discover Depths With Ocean Refale

• The OCEAN RAFALE offers an immersive underwater coral viewing experience around North Bay Island, allowing passengers to marvel at vibrant marine life without getting wet.
• Equipped with comfortable seating and air-conditioning, the vessel ensures a pleasant journey while adhering to stringent safety standards with life jackets and emergency protocols in place.
• Knowledgeable guides provide informative commentary during guided tours, enhancing the experience by explaining the marine environment, types of coral, and the ecological significance of the region.

Explore the Tranquil Beauty of Mawphanlur, Meghalaya

• Mawphanlur is a high-altitude paradise with meadows, lakes, and charming cottages. Ideal for an overnight trip, it offers stunning starlit skies and cool temperatures at night. The verdant scenery, with chirping birds, wandering calves, and playful canines, is a visual treat.
• Enjoy activities like kayaking on the lakes and climbing the large boulders. Hikers will love the walk to nearby Mawthadraishan, offering clear views of the Eastern Himalayas and Assam plains on unclouded mornings.
• Best time to visit is October to April, but Mawphanlur is beautiful year-round, even during the monsoons.

Be Monsoon Ready

If you're traveling during the monsoon season, carry umbrellas, extra comfortable shoes, warm layered clothing, sturdy trekking gear, and plenty of socks.

 

Flavours of the East

Traditional Delicacy from Nagalang - Akhuni Chutney

Akhuni Chutney, also known as Axone Chutney, is a cherished traditional delicacy from Nagaland, a state in northeastern India. This chutney is renowned for its distinctive, potent flavour and aroma, resulting from the fermentation of soybeans. Akhuni Chutney is more than just a culinary delight; it is an integral part of the cultural fabric of the Naga people. This chutney is often prepared during festivals and special occasions, underscoring its significance in Naga society.

Method

1. Cook soybeans until soft.

2. Allow the boiled soybeans to ferment for several days to weeks, developing a pungent aroma and robust flavour.

3. Grind the fermented soybeans into a smooth paste using a mortar and pestle.

4. Combine the ground soybean paste with finely chopped green chilies, crushed garlic, and salt to taste.

5. Akhuni Chutney is served as a condiment, enhancing the flavours of rice dishes, meats, and vegetables in traditional Naga cuisine.

Awards And Recognitions

Awarded The Tally Msme Honors 2024 In The Business Maestro Category

We are incredibly proud and grateful to share that Clubside Tours and Travels Pvt. Ltd. has been honored with the Tally MSME Honors 2024 for the Business Maestro category. This recognition is a testament to our dedication, hard work, and the unwavering support of our team, partners, and clients. Thank you for being a part of our journey and helping us achieve this milestone. We are committed to continuing to deliver exceptional services and creating memorable experiences for all our travelers.