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International Ganpati Festival by Maharashtra Tourism – a worth experiencing festival

Maharashtra – a state with vivid hues and myriad of colors, it brims with hospitality and experiences that are memorable.

When I got an invite to witness the International Ganpati festival, I was more than elated.  The city is the main hub of celebrating the welcome of Lord Ganesha; for ten days the festivities continue with pandals decorated to celebrate his presence. Devotees sing and dance, modaks are served as prashads and all over the state, and there is a reverence for Lord Ganesha.

My experience with Maharashtra Tourism –

As we touched down the Mumbai International Mumbai airport, I could not hold back my excitement to experience the sheer magic of Mumbai’s most celebrated festival.

The team from Maharashtra tourism and Thomas cook welcomed us at the airport and escorted us to the bus which then moved towards our first halt for breakfast. A traditional welcome with dhol and bigul was all set up to begin the festivities and welcome us. My heart started racing and I couldn’t stop myself from dancing to the tunes of the electrifying music. I could instantly feel the connection and the warm vibe of Maharashtra, welcoming lord Ganesha.

After a hearty authentic breakfast, we boarded the bus that had representatives waiting to take us on to the next destination – Palghar.

The Bus, equipped with all essentials had tour representatives to guide us and help us with the itenary. A passport was handed to us with my initials and a boarding pass to Palghar. I loved the creativity and personalized attention.

Please also read : A detailed blog on Palghar

Palghar

Distance from Mumbai – 2.5 hours

Palghar, a lesser known tribal village is home to scenic views of waterfalls, lakes, clean beaches, delectable cuisine, local culture and worth visiting temples.

Palghar is approximately 2.5 hours from Mumbai. The road is smooth and free from traffic overload. What is worth appreciating is the scenic beauty that is worth admiring on the way.  With the downpour, the leaves of trees glistened and gleamed making it look even more alluring. After a beautiful scenic drive, we reached the Fern Hotel – located on the highway with beautiful rooms and a grand lobby. The hotel boasts of its location and picturesque views from rooms. A warm welcome and a smooth check-in later, we retired to our rooms and relaxed for some time.

1.Pandal Visit in district Palghar

We visited a famous temple in the district, followed by a house visit to see the pandal decoration of Mr. Tiwari, our host from Palghar. His house and family was as welcoming as the Maharashtra tourism. Lord Ganpati was placed in a beautiful pandal. We were awe-struck with the fabulous decorum and the charming hospitality of the family. We chanted bhajans with the family, devoured Prasad and bowed with reverence in front of Ganpati.  It was a delight to see how locals were welcoming Ganpati in their homes with so much enthusiasm.

Later, we went for a nice Maharashtra meal that comprised of Bhaji like val, mugachi usal, ananas aamti, val vanga shegvachya, roti, dal, rice, salad, papads. I haven’t come across such indegenious flavors bursting with aroma and so delicious to taste.

Mumbai was our next destination, where we witnessed a grand celebration of Ganpati mahotsav by MTDC.

2.Ganesh Gali, Lal Bagh Parel, Central Mumbai

The theme this year was coronation of Shivaji maharaj. Mumbai Cha Raja of Ganesh Gali is one of the old and popular pandals. Founded in 1928, the Mandal is celebrating its 96th year of inception with a special theme. This year, the Lalbaug Sarvajanik Utsav Mandal celebrates 350 years of Shivaji Maharaj’s coronation with a special theme. A huge crowd awaits for the darshan of Mumbai cha Raja standing tall at 22 ft and displaying grandeur with its illuminous glow. The darshan amidst the huge crowd is worth it and you feel empowered with the divine blessings of Mumbai Cha Raja.

3.Sidhivinayak Temple

Our bus moved towards the most awaited darshan at the Sidhivinayak temple. The temple has a small mandap with the shrine for Siddhi Vinayak (“Ganesha who grants your wish”). The wooden doors to the sanctum are carved with images of the Ashtavinayak (the eight manifestations of Ganesha in Maharashtra).

The inner roof of the sanctum is plated with gold, and the central statue is of Ganesha. The exterior of the temple consists of a dome which is lit up with multiple colors in the evenings and the statue of Shri Ganesha is located exactly under the dome. The pillars are carved out with the images of ashtvinayak. This temple is mostly visited by people who believe in Lord Ganpati and coming to the temple on Ganpati mahotsav is an experience of a lifetime. The darshan of Lord Ganpati was smooth with the help of our friends from Thomas cook who ushered us with ease in the temple.

4.GSB Wadala Pandal Ganpati

GSB Seva Mandal is one of the popular Ganesh pandals of Mumbai, with an installation of Lord Ganesha adorned with 69kg of gold and 336 kg of silver. The divine statue looked endearing with its glitter and is worth visiting, What I loved most was the comfortable darshan inspite of the huge rush during the festival. Prasads are distributed to the devotees in a line by the pandits.

The day comes to an end with a glimpse of the procession of Lord Ganpati taken back by devotees. It is such a beautiful sight to see a musical parade of devotees taking the effigy of Lord Ganesha and immersive in the sea. Prayers are chanted and lamps are lit where Lord Ganpati is revered. The soft wind and gentle rain on the night of Ganpati immersion marks the end of the second day of the auspicious ten day festival. It was a lovely sight to witness the devotion and belief of people in lord Ganesha, who is symbolic of destroyer of evils and paves the path for all possibilities. We signed off after the darshan and moved back to our hotel.

Maharashtra is the state that brews fervor of celebration of the ten day long festival with processions, chants, hymns and togetherness. It is a delight to witness a harmonious blend of mysticism and devotion. A big gratitude to Maharashtra Tourism for introducing us to the auspicious International Ganpati festival and making us a part of the celebrations.

Agni Ayurvedic Village – Best Ayurvedic Wellness center in Maharashtra

On my recent trip to Mumbai, I was welcomed by a major downpour in the city. I wanted to escape to somewhere serene and relaxing. My search ended at Agni Ayurvedic Village near Panvel, Maharashtra. The Kerala themed ayurvedic village has everything to match your detox program. The place is a healing land that offers beautiful views, wholesome food devoid of preservatives and rejuvenating therapies to pacify the agitated mind, body and soul.

Rooms – Simple and minimalisitic

After a check-in during late evening, I was escorted to my room on the ground floor. The room is simple, clean and hygienic with basic amenities like double bed with duvet and soft pillows, an almirah, table with stationary and a balcony with stunning views.

Dining

The dining area is open that lets in fresh air greet up while you dine. The huge space has simple yet rustic dining tables and chairs that are made with pine wood. The meals served here are devoid of wheat, rice, sugar, milk and cornflour. Everything is satvik, pure and tailor-made as per the requirement by the guest.

After a satvik meal of vegetables, lentils and ragi chapati, I slept peacefully like a log. The next day I woke up surprisingly late.

Nature Trail around Agni Ayurvedic village

As I moved the drapes and looked outside the window, I saw the beauty of nature all spread across. The trees, clouds and green grass looked so inviting that I had to step put and take a walk around.

The lake near the property looks beautiful after the rains. I was loving the silence, swaying trees, bushes along the path as I walked around. Nature is at its finest at the Agni Ayurvedic village. There is a cowshed that is located in the premises.

Consultation with the doctor

A resident doctor is appointed who takes a survey of the guest. After a complete analysis, she advices the best diet, therapy and lifestyle correction to help maintain optimum health. I was adviced a therapy called Abhyangam and a scru with rice and rose petals – a therapy that was one of the best experience of my life.

Abhyangam, a 45 minute massage lies at the foundation of Ayurvedic massage treatment. It works wonders on the body, giving it strength, keeps your limbs firm, improves circulation and is anti-aging. Two trained therapists ushered me to a quaint room and made me sit on a chair for a prayer.

Then, I was made to lie on a wooden bed face down. The oil for abhyangam is not fragrant but is definitely healing and helps to relax the aching joints and muscles.

The warm oil soothed my lower back almost instantly. Both the masseurs worked up the magic of their hands in a circular motion that helped me to relax and fall asleep. I was transcended in a different world. The medicinal herbs were magical and I could feel the pain
in my back almost gone.
The thing I loved about the massage was the long one powerful stroke from the neck to the ankle.

The best thing was yet to come and it was the scrub. The rice and rose petals help in cleansing and detoxification, pulling out the disturbing elements from the skin. The sensation is cooling and very therapeutic.  

After a nice warm shower, I felt relaxed and rejuvenated already and thanked my therapists for the amazing experience.

The programs at Agni Ayurvedic village Include :-

Doctor’s Consultation , 2 Therapies per day , Sattvik Meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Snacks + Dinner),  Comfortable Accommodation, Yoga and meditation sessions every day. 

They specialize in illnesses related to Ortho and neuro issues, stroke rehabilitation and lifestyle disorders such as diabetes management, weight management, PCOS, etc. In Wellness programs we are experts in Stress management, panchkarma, Detoxification, general body fitness, post delivery care, skin care etc.

The monsoons are best for experiencing Ayurveda at Agni Village. You can contact them here for a consultation and get enrolled for their detox and wellness packages.

10 Best Places to Travel in Monsoons in India – Embrace the Magic of Rain

Monsoon in India is more than just a season — it’s a celebration of nature. The rain-soaked mountains, misty mornings, blooming valleys, and overflowing waterfalls make it one of the best times to explore the hidden beauty of the country. If you’re planning a monsoon getaway, here are the 10 best places to travel in monsoons in India that promise breathtaking views, cozy weather, and unforgettable experiences.

1. Munnar, Kerala

Why Visit:

  • Verdant tea plantations covered in mist
  • Gushing waterfalls like Attukal and Lakkam
  • Romantic weather, ideal for couples
  • Monsoon treks and Ayurvedic treatments

Best for: Nature lovers, honeymooners

2. Coorg, Karnataka

Why Visit:

  • Lush coffee estates and scenic hills
  • Abbey Falls and Iruppu Falls in full glory
  • Fresh aroma of rain-soaked forests
  • Great monsoon drives and homestays

Best for: Families, road trips, wellness retreats

3. Udaipur, Rajasthan

Why Visit:

  • Romantic boat rides on Lake Pichola during rain
  • Fewer tourists and cooler weather
  • Monsoon Palace offering panoramic views
  • Cultural experiences with local music and cuisine

Best for: Couples, culture lovers

4. Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand

Why Visit:

  • UNESCO World Heritage site in full bloom during monsoon
  • Rare Himalayan flora and snow-capped peaks
  • Ideal for trekking and adventure seekers

Best for: Nature photographers, trekkers

5. Lonavala & Khandala, Maharashtra

Why Visit:

  • Close to Mumbai and Pune
  • Lush greenery, waterfalls, and misty hills
  • Famous monsoon spots like Tiger’s Leap and Bhushi Dam

Best for: Weekend getaways, romantic trips

6. Shillong, Meghalaya

Why Visit:

  • Known as the “Scotland of the East”
  • Spectacular waterfalls like Elephant Falls and Nohkalikai Falls
  • Foggy pine forests and lakes

Best for: Explorers, offbeat travelers

7. Cherrapunji, Meghalaya

Why Visit:

  • One of the wettest places on Earth
  • Living root bridges and caves
  • Monsoon magic like nowhere else

Best for: Adventure lovers, photographers

8. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

Why Visit:

  • Misty hills and strawberry farms
  • Scenic viewpoints like Arthur’s Seat and Elephant’s Head
  • Great for long walks and hot chai with rain views

Best for: Romantic travelers, nature seekers

9. Alleppey, Kerala

Why Visit:

  • Rain adds charm to backwater cruises
  • Houseboat stays with lush views
  • Ayurveda therapies and peaceful atmosphere

Best for: Relaxation, wellness travel

10. Agumbe, Karnataka

Why Visit:

  • Called the “Cherrapunji of the South”
  • Rich biodiversity and rainforest trekking
  • Sunset point with a dramatic view

Best for: Wildlife lovers, eco-tourism

Best Experience at Luxury Ecoglamping Festival in Nashik

Maharashtra, one of the most vibrant and diverse states in India, offers an incredible array of experiences for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, adventure seeker, or someone looking for a peaceful getaway, there is something for everyone.

So when I received an invitation from Maharashtra tourism to experience and write about their eco glamping festival and experience the natural terrain of this beautiful wine city, I couldn’t refuse. I had my luggage packed and boarded the Indigo flight to reach Nashik with other fellow bloggers.

The anticipation was huge as I had always wanted to experience the surreal beauty Nashik, popular of its vineyards, beautiful landscapes, historic lanes and beautiful temples.

We were greeted by the Ecoglamping team at the airport, who whisked us to the venue that would be our abode for three days.

As the car drove off, I enjoyed the sprawling vineyards, with this season being best for harvesting.

Nashik is not only known for the scenic vineyards but also for being a growing hub for luxury travel and experiences. One of the most unique and memorable ways to explore Nashik is through the luxury glamping Festival.

Ecoglamping – Experiencing Nashik the right way

Ecoglamping fest is organized for people to come closer to the cultural heritage of the vibrant city. The glamorous camping offers the perfect blend of adventure and comfort, providing an unforgettable experience for those seeking a blend of nature, luxury, and relaxation. Nashik’s serene landscapes and vibrant festival culture make it the ideal destination for such an experience.

On arrival at the ecoglamping site, only 40 minutes away from the airport, we were welcomed by the team and ushered to our luxury tents that were not just luxurious, but exuded comfort.  The tent was complete with comfortable beds and mattresses and duvet, space to stack clothes, chair and table and a washroom with rain shower. It was perfect.

The dining tent only a few minutes’ walk from our accommodation, had a delicious buffet spread of authentic Indian delicacies. The food here is not only flavorful, but healthy and delicious too.

Day 1

Photography workshop

It’s quite interesting that a camera captures every emotion. Hiren, a renowned photographer and naturalist, comes with an exhaustive experience of animal photography, and loves capturing minute details of the animals, during the day. I got to learn the nuances of the fine art of photography at the workshop where I learnt several things to improvise my shots.

Day 2

After a hearty breakfast, we left for the Trimbakeshwar temple, the one with the sacred jyotirling. The temple is renowned in India for its mystical powers. It was a beautiful darshan, standing in front of the jyotirling and feeling blessed. The team of ecoglamping ensured we made the most of our visit. Later, we visited the coin museum, where we witnessed the journey of the coin that later transcended to become the powerful currency. The hardships and labor that went into making the currency was depicted through a miniature doll form, which simply captivated us.

The evening was booked for a heritage walk with urban….. . The walk organizer, Ulka is an excellent orator who speaks at length about the bylanes of Nashik, each echoing the story behind the intricate architecture, speaking a thousand tales about the making of the prestigious homes also called waadis.

It was a delight to walk aound the lanes and gather an understanding about the Maharashtra architecture, made with finesse to allow ventilation and yet look beautiful. The walk was later followed by temple visit where we were lucky to witness the divine arti near the ghat. It was a blissful moment to be lost amidst the harmonious chanting and rhythmic bells, creating a stir of emotions and reverence in that moment.

Day 3

The morning was booked for some adventure activities, where we did paragliding, speed boat and ATV rides. The weather was on our side, so we enjoyed the land and water activities with full enthusiasm. It’s important to fill in few details to enjoy these activities.

The day was planned for a visit to the Sula Vineyards, where we enjoyed wine tasting and had a walkthrough about wine making. The odyssey of wine from farm to bottle was an interesting one to watch and we loved learning the details of the most loved wine of India. Our lunch was planned at the farm, where enjoyed indigenous flavors of Maharashtra, with some missal, chicken and other delicacies that were cooked live. I personally loved the aamras that was made with perfection.

Evening was made special with a warli art workshop. I loved this art form as you get to create interesting format that depict the livelihood of villagers. The art form is very frequently practiced in villagers, where they decorate walls of the houses and create an interesting story form. Since it was women’s day, the team of ecoglamping felicitated all female bloggers with a goody bag that contained our picture frame, some jewellery, notebook and a rose. I loved the special gesture of the team and thanked them for the hospitality.

My three days went smoothly and I loved their special attention to make my stay comfortable. The food at the camp is homely, healthy and fresh, so you can definitely enjoy all meals.

Why you must choose Ecoglamping for Luxury Glamping?

  1. Nashik is widely known for its beautiful vineyards, tranquil lakes, and picturesque hills, making it a perfect setting for a luxury glamping festival. The city is also culturally rich, with temples, forts, and a history that dates back thousands of years. If you’re someone who loves to connect with nature without compromising on comfort, Ecoglamping experiences are designed just for you. Think of sleeping under the stars in a fully equipped tent, enjoying gourmet meals, and exploring local attractions—all while being immersed in the beauty of the great outdoors.
  2. The Luxury Glamping Experience in Nashik provides an all-encompassing experience, blending adventure, relaxation, and a touch of extravagance.
  3. Glamorous Tents with All the Comforts:  At a Ecoglamping festival, you won’t be roughing it. Forget about sleeping on the ground or worrying about cold nights in a regular tent. These glamping setups feature spacious, well-designed tents equipped with plush bedding, air conditioning (or heaters, depending on the season), and elegant decor. Think of king-sized beds, soft linens, and stylish furniture, providing you with the luxury of a five-star hotel, all while being surrounded by nature.
  4. Gourmet Dining :  Food is one of the highlights of any luxury glamping experience. The glamping festivals in Nashik pride themselves on offering gourmet meals made from locally sourced ingredients. From freshly baked bread to traditional Maharashtrian delicacies, you’ll be treated to a variety of dishes prepared by professional chefs. Dining at the festival is often an outdoor affair, with beautifully set up dining areas under the twinkling stars, making the experience even more magical.
  5. Exclusive Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tours:  Nashik is often referred to as the ‘Wine Capital of India,’ and no visit to the city is complete without exploring its famous vineyards. During your glamping experience, you can take part in exclusive wine tasting sessions and vineyard tours. Ecoglamping has partnered with Sula, where everyone gets to enjoy wine tasting amidst lush vineyards.
  6. Wellness and Relaxation : Ecoglamping isn’t just about adventure and exploration; it’s also about unwinding and rejuvenating.  Surrounded by natural beauty, you can engage in morning yoga sessions, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk near the river beds. This combination of luxury and tranquility is perfect for those looking to recharge their mind, body, and soul.
  7. Adventurous Activities:  For those seeking adventure, Nashik offers plenty of options. Eco glamping festival organizes guided treks, nature walks, and adventure sports such as land and water sports and cycling. These activities allow you to connect with nature in an active and exciting way.
  8. Cultural Experiences and Local Attractions:  Nashik is a city steeped in history and culture. As part of the glamping festival, guests may have the opportunity to explore the local temples, forts, and ancient ruins. The Trimbakeshwar Temple, a significant pilgrimage site, and the Sita caves are just a few of the cultural gems of Nashik. The festival might also include performances of traditional music and dance, allowing visitors to experience the local culture in a truly immersive way.
  9.  Stunning Natural Beauty : Nashik’s diverse landscapes make it an ideal glamping destination. Whether it’s the lush hills, the sprawling vineyards, or the serene Godavari River, the natural beauty of Nashik will take your breath away. Imagine waking up to the sounds of birds chirping and the sight of mist-covered hills or lush greenery.

Unplug and Relax: One of the main attractions of luxury glamping is the opportunity to disconnect from the digital world. Take advantage of this by unplugging and fully immersing yourself in nature.

Book your glamping adventure today and discover Nashik like never before with Ecoglamping.  The festival is on till 19th April.

image courtsey : agoda

6 Best Eco-Resorts in India that embrace sustainability


In a world where sustainability is becoming increasingly crucial, eco-friendly resorts offer a refreshing alternative for travelers seeking to minimize their environmental footprint while indulging in luxury and relaxation. India, with its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, is home to some of the finest eco-resorts that seamlessly blend luxury with environmental consciousness. Let’s embark on a journey to explore some of the best eco-resorts in India, where nature and hospitality coexist harmoniously.

  1. The Machan, Maharashtra: Tucked away in the lush Western Ghats, The Machan offers an enchanting retreat amidst towering trees and serene surroundings. This eco-resort features beautifully crafted treehouses, each designed to minimize impact on the environment while providing utmost comfort to guests. From breathtaking views to organic meals sourced locally, The Machan exemplifies sustainable living without compromising on luxury.
  2. Banjaar Tola, Madhya Pradesh: Situated on the fringes of Kanha National Park, Banjaar Tola offers a unique wilderness experience with a strong emphasis on conservation and community engagement. The resort features elegant tented suites that blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Guests can immerse themselves in wildlife safaris, guided nature walks, and cultural encounters with local communities, all while supporting conservation efforts in one of India’s premier tiger reserves.
  3. Vythiri Resort, Kerala: Nestled in the heart of Wayanad’s pristine rainforest, Vythiri Resort is a haven for nature lovers seeking tranquility and rejuvenation. The resort’s eco-friendly cottages and treehouses are designed to complement the natural beauty of the region, with sustainable practices incorporated into every aspect of its operations. Guests can unwind with Ayurvedic treatments, explore the lush surroundings on guided hikes, or simply relax amidst the sounds of chirping birds and gushing streams.
  4. Spice Village, Tamil Nadu: Located in the picturesque town of Thekkady, Spice Village is a testament to sustainable tourism and responsible hospitality. Set amidst a spice plantation, the resort offers charming cottages built using traditional tribal architecture and eco-friendly materials. Guests can participate in spice plantation tours, interact with local artisans, or embark on a wildlife safari in nearby Periyar Tiger Reserve, knowing that their stay contributes to the preservation of the region’s rich biodiversity.
  5. Shakti 360° Leti, Uttarakhand: Perched high in the Himalayas, Shakti 360° Leti is a remote mountain retreat that combines luxury with off-grid living and environmental stewardship. The resort’s eco-friendly cottages offer panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks, while renewable energy sources and sustainable construction techniques minimize its ecological impact. Guests can explore the surrounding villages, engage in guided treks through alpine meadows, or simply bask in the serenity of this Himalayan paradise.
  6. Dune Eco Village & Spa, Tamil Nadu: Situated along the pristine coastline of Puducherry, Dune Eco Village & Spa is a pioneering eco-resort dedicated to sustainable living and holistic wellness. The resort features a diverse range of accommodations, including earth villas, treehouses, and beach bungalows, all designed to blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. Guests can enjoy organic farm-to-table dining, rejuvenate with Ayurvedic treatments at the spa, or participate in eco-friendly initiatives such as beach cleanups and conservation workshops.

These eco-resorts represent a growing trend in the hospitality industry, where luxury and sustainability go hand in hand. By choosing to stay at these establishments, travelers not only experience the beauty of India’s natural landscapes but also contribute to the preservation of its fragile ecosystems for generations to come. So, why not embark on a journey of discovery and immerse yourself in the wonders of eco-tourism in India?