Colourful kites, smart parades, delectable barbecues, children waving flags and fireworks bursting in air. The long Independence Day weekend is tailor-made for a quintessential all-Indian summer getaway, as destinations around the country woo families with events that celebrate all that's kesariya, white, and green. The options for fun are as varied as the colours in those fireworks: head to a city for big parades and a splash of culture, sprawl on a blanket under the starry sky, or experience a little bit of both. Here's a sampling of some top packages for families this Independence Day weekend to some of the most-sought after destinations in the picturesque state of Uttarakhand.

The Fort Unchagaon

The Fort Unchagaon stands majestically in village Unchagaon. Just about an hour's drive from the bustling town of Bulandshahar in UP, it is a mere 110 kms from New Delhi. Unchagaon is very close to river Ganges. The particular stretch is very famous for Dolphins. The present Raja Surendra Pal Singh inherited this early 19th century fort at the age of ten. The young heir took personal interest in the maintenance and preservation of this ancestral residence. This palace was renovated under his guidance and thus is evident the influence of early 20th century blend of Indian and colonial architecture. Being the private domicile of a prince, the décor is authentically aristocratic. As the years rolled by, all modern amenities were added to the old palace making it much loved weekend getaway for many close friends and relatives of the family. Under the management of Leisure Hotels, the fort-turned-resort offers double rooms and suites along with numerous activities & recreational games.

The imposing white façade of the fort is surrounded by well-manicured, lush verdant lawns. The décor with its understated elegance is a reflection of the time, when style remained a way of life. Passing through the corridors, one is struck by muted opulence of its interior decors, another aristocratic feature of the palace. A set of royalty, this architectural heritage is a fine example of an early 20th century blend of Indian and colonial influences and offers you a chance to live the old 'Zamindari' way of life.

One may bask in the solitude in the warm sunshine, sit beneath the orchard trees in the farm, walk along the river, enjoy horse riding on Peshawari breed horses and bullock cart rides, walk through village haat and play billiards, squash, croquet, badminton to name just a few.

Activities:
» Bullock Cart Ride
» Horse Riding – Peshawari breed horses.
» Artisan Display
» Orchard & Farm Visit
» Folk & Cultural Performances
» Boat Ride (Proposed)
» Walk through village Haat

Other Activities / Gaming Options -
» Jogging Tracks
» Billiards
» Squash
» Jogging Tracks
» Croquet
» Pony-Cart rides for children
»Badminton

The cost of package for a couple for two nights and three days is from Rs 6,400/- to Rs. 7,600/- and the package is valid from August 14, 2009 to August 16, 2009.

The Special Offer also includes:

• Welcome Drink on Arrival
• Fruit Basket in the room
• Evening Tea in the lawn
• Guided Village walk
• Bullock Cart Ride
• Pottery making activity in the village
• Folk Song in the evening

The Haveli Hari Ganga, Haridwar

Situated on the banks of river Ganga, Haridwar is a city that signifies an arresting blend of Indian culture and spiritual beliefs. To capture the true essence of the city's spiritualism and simplicity, exuberance and enthusiasm a visit to The Haveli Hari Ganga, Haridwar is a must.

Designated as a heritage property by the Department of Tourism, Government of India, The Haveli Hari Ganga is a beautiful heritage resort situated on the banks of the Holy Ganga, a mere 500 meters walk through the bazaar at the sacred 'Har ki Pauri' in Haridwar.

The interiors of the haveli are interestingly reminiscent of ancient Indian architecture where there are balanced tones of poise & comfort. Twenty luxurious air-conditioned rooms and suites have been designed over-looking the Ganga ghat, which open into airy courtyards and balconies. It enhances the feeling of peace and tranquility that is so much a part of surroundings. The hotel also offers clean private bathing ghats, which is a first for a hotel in Haridwar.

While the soul gets nurtured by the flowing Ganga, the body gets rejuvenated at hotel's spa that offers a complete revival of the psychic energies and relaxes by actively prescribing yoga and meditation techniques.

The gracious hospitality extends itself into the cuisine offered at the homely restaurant that serves a great variety of excellent continental and Indian cuisines. The emphasis is on freshness of produce and the choicest of ingredients laced with the flavors of India, Southeast Asia, Europe and beyond. The Hotel also offers complete Saatvik food including delicacies like 'Gujhias', 'Papris'. The guest can watch a performance of Raas-Leela at the local market, guided by somebody from the Hotel. The Hotel has Private Ghats and you can enjoy the Holy dip at the Ganges.

The cost of package for a couple for 2 nights-3 days is from Rs 10,999/- to Rs. 12,500/- and the package is valid from August 14, 2009 to August 16, 2009.

The offer also includes:

· Welcome Drink on Arrival

· Fruit Basket in the room

· Tea/ Coffee makers in the room

· Transfers Ex Railway Station by private rickshaws

· Interaction with Yoga Expert every day

· Steam Bath

· Escorted visit to Har- Ki Pauri during Evening Aarti

· Bhajan & Kirtan

· Complimentary Foot Massage once during stay

· Daily Havan at the ghat in the morning.

· Visit to Rajaji National Park –Once during stay ( Till 15th June )

· Visit to Rasyia Bad – once during stay (16th June-15th Oct)

The Riverview Retreat, Corbett National Park

The Riverview Retreat is a set of luxury family cottages that provides with a city lifestyle right in the middle of a jungle. Fifty-four independently air-conditioned lifestyle lodges with drawing room & small kitchenette are aesthetically done up for people who want to do their own thing. Sloping tiled roofs, cool stone floors with throw rugs, block wood furniture allow maximum comfort while continuing the illusion of being in the wilds.

The Riverview Retreat is a charming retreat that's big on style. A resort full of fresh innovative design ideas those are simple, yet truly stylish, which give you freedom to relax and leave the world behind at the front door.

The facilities at the resort include:

• Swimming Pool
• Multi-cuisine Gol Ghar Restaurant
• Table Tennis, Badminton, Volleyball, Beach Cricket, Archery, Chess & Carom
• Jeep, Horse and Elephant Safari
• Nature Walks
• Folk Dance/ Cultural Programs
• Evening Bonfires

The cost of package for a couple for 2 nights & 3 days is from Rs 11,999/- to Rs.13,999/- and the package is valid from August 14, 2009 to August 16, 2009.

The Special offer also includes:

· Welcome Drink On Arrival

· Bonfire during Winters

· Fruit Basket & Cookies in the room on the day of arrival

· Tea /Coffee makers in the room

· Cultural Performance every alternate evening

· Slide Show/ Wildlife Movie every alternate evening

· 20% Discount at Jim’s Grill (Specialty Grill House)

· 20% Discount on Spa Therapies at The Corbett Hideaway (next door)

· 20% discount at the Tusker Bar during happy hours.

The Naini Retreat, Nainital

Nestled in the Naini hills lies The Naini Retreat, one of the finest hotels in Nainital that is owned by Leisure Hotels.  Once the residence of Maharaja of Pilibhit, the resort’s majestic building exudes an 'Old World Charm’ that houses the most modern luxuries one could ask for. Furnished with all the modern day amenities, the hotel blends the world of hospitality with exceptional services for each of its guests.

Just 1 km from the mall, The Naini Retreat is situated on the picturesque Ayarpatta Slopes overlooking the Naini Lake. It provides a breathtaking view at an altitude of 1,995 metres. Sophisticated bedrooms, an intimate dining room overlooking the valley, a well-equipped fitness centre, a huge conference hall and the view of the Himalayas go towards the makings of a complete experience. There are 37 luxurious rooms with wooded floor and television, intercom facilities forms a restful backdrop to verdant environs. The rooms have attached baths with running hot & cold water.

Activities

One can also experience trekking in the mountains, a golfing date at the regal 100-year old Raj Bhawan Golf Course, a special cultural evening featuring performances by traditional Kumaoni artists, relaxation at the in-house spa, boating or sailing in vivid coloured yachts, horse riding, walking along shaded roads, cable car riding, handicrafts shopping etc.

The cost of package for a couple for two nights and three days is from Rs.11,555/- to Rs.13, 555/- and the package is valid from August 14, 2009 to August 16, 2009

The Special Offer includes:

• Buffet Breakfast & Dinner
• Welcome Drink on Arrival.
• fruit basket & Bakery products on arrival
• Guided Nature & Heritage Walk.
• Live entertainment every evening
• Entry to Boat House Club (Nainital)
• Special Meal Discount Coupon at The Himalayan View Retreat (Ramgarh)
• 20% discount on spa therapies.
• 20% discount on Stella Bar during happy hours from 7pm - 9pm.
• Souvenir on departure.

Sun N Snow Inn, Kausani

Far Away from the madding crowd, Leisure Hotel's Sun N Snow Inn is built to provide solitude and is ideal for a romantic getaway. One can have a mesmerizing view of the vistas and photogenic scenery of the landscape including the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.  It is just the perfect way to escape from the din and dust, hustle and bustle of big cities. Well furnished rooms with a quaint multi-cuisine restaurant, a relaxing lobby and outdoor facility to bask in the sun, the resort provides all modern amenities that one could ask for

Kausani is a tourist's paradise, situated in the middle Himalayas near Almora. Surrounded by thick, dense coniferous forests, this place gives a panoramic view of the mighty Himalayas in all its grandeur. From here, one can also get a spectacular view of the snow-clad peaks of Nanda Devi, Trishul, Panchchuli, Nandakot, and Chaukhamba.

Kausani is frequented by thousands of tourist every year who come here to enjoy its pleasant climate and natural beauty.

Activities

This enchanting mountain retreat has a lot to offer to the tourists- ranging from sports, pilgrims spots, sightseeing, to complete relaxation.

The cost of package at Sun N Snow Inn for 2 nights & 3 days is Rs 7,999/- and the package is valid from August 14, 2009 to August 16, 2009

The Special Offer also includes

· Welcome Drink on arrival

· Fruit Basket

· Bonfire & Live entertainment every evening

· Guided walk through a Tea Estate

· Guided Trek to Rudradhari Temple through the forest

· Tea/ Coffee at Sunrise and Sunset in the rooftop lounge

The Himalayan View Retreat, Ramgarh

Ramgarh in Uttarakhand is the right destination for those seeking the bliss of a quiet holiday amidst the Himalayan mountain ranges. It is an idyllic place for nature lovers, as one can marvel at the picturesque sunrise and sunset, admire the majesty of the mighty Himalayas and relish the taste of juicy Himalayan fruits. Ramgarh is known for orchards of a variety of Himalayan fruits like apples, apricots, and peaches. The famous poet Rabindra Nath Tagore once visited Ramgarh in order to give his ailing daughter a chance to recuperate. He later established his ashram and created some of his compositions here.

Leisure Hotels' The Himalayan View Retreat is located in Malla Ramgarh (also known as the fruit bowl of Kumaon) and surrounded by thick forests. The Himalayan View Retreat offers breathtaking views of the Nanda Devi & Trishul peaks of Himalayas. All the rooms are spacious with attached baths with running hot & cold water. This valley-facing hotel gives all kind of luxuries one wants in a secluded hill station.

Activities

Ramgarh has a variety of activities both outdoor and indoor for visitors to pamper themselves with. Outdoor activities include night trekking, star gazing and nature walk. Nainital’s boat and cable car riding can be arranged easily from Ramgarh.

The cost of package for a couple for 2 nights & 3 days is Rs.7, 555/-and the package is valid from August 14, 2009 to August 16, 2009

Special Offer also includes:

• Welcome Drink on Arrival.
• Fruit Basket in the room.
• Bonfire in the evening
• Morning Yoga session every day
• Full day sightseeing in private car with guide
• Boat Ride, Cable Car Ride, Horse Ride
• Picnic Lunch
• Bar-be-que snacks in the evening
• Unlimited Tea/ Coffee at the resort
• Guided Nature Walk
• Treasure Hunt for the kids
• Complimentary use of recreational facilities

Get In Touch:-

Leisure Hotels Ltd.,
F - 3/6, Ground Floor,

Okhla Inds. Area, Phase I,

New Delhi - 110 020

Tel : 91-11- 4652 0000

Fax: 91-11- 4652 0050

website: www.leisurehotels.co.in

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com

Himalayan region is no doubt a blessing in disguise for the nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts, who wish to take the rare experience of wilderness. There is a long list of such trekking destinations located in the Himalayan mountains and challenge trekkers from far away places to come and show their sporting spirits along with guts.

Counted amongst the youngest mountain ranges on the earth, Himalayas offer trekkers with spectacular sights and many things to explore, which definitely make a memory in their life experiences. Spreading from North India to North Eastern states, Himalayan mountain range covers many beautiful states like, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. Nature has bestowed everything on these Himalayan areas from varieties of Flora to some of the rare species of Fauna and Avi Fauna, which make them a must visit place and enjoy the mesmerising and enchanting aura of nature.

Favourite Trekking Routes in Indian Himalayas

Mussoorie-Nag Tibba Trek

Mussoorie is one of the most visited hill stations of Northern India, both by domestic as well as foreign tourists. It offers its visitors with a mesmerising view of high rising snow covered ranges towards North East, Shivalik ranges and scenic beauty of Doon valley. The trek starts from Dhanaulti through the forests of Morna Dhar to Nag Tibba, which is located at an altitude of 3,048 meters. Though there are some of the villages on the route but during winters these are also abandoned because of snowfall. Having a view of the sunset behind the hills covered with evergreen dense forests is an awesome experience.

Adi Kailash Trekking Tour

This trekking expedition is one of the most sought after treks by adventure lovers and pilgrims. Adi Kailash tour is considered next best to visiting Kailash Mansarovar. Adi Kailash is also known by the name of Chhota Kailash and is situated at a height of 4,770 meters close to the Indo-Tibetan border. Most of the trekking route is common and is also taken by Kailas Mansarovar travellers. The trek, which starts from Tawaghat towards its destination point Mt. Adi Kailash, offers trekkers with a beautiful view of snow covered mountains, waterfalls, and rivulets with a background music by chirping of birds.

Ghangaria-Hemkund Trek

Hemkund is also known by the name if Lokpal Lake and is located at an altitude of 4,329 meters. This site is considered pious pilgrimage for both Hindus and Sikhs. A temple of Lakshman and world's highest Gurudwara have been built on the side of Lokpal lake. The lake is fed by waters from Hathi Parvat and Saptarishi mountain peak, from where Himganga water stream originates. The trek starts on a steep climb from Ghangaria. Best time to visit this region is from August to October.

Govindghat-Valley of Flowers Trek

Valley of Flowers is located at an altitude of 3,600 meters above sea-level and surrounded by snowy mountains. It remains covered by snow during winter season and blooms with a variety of flowers with the end of winters. This valley has been declared as World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The trek starts from Govindghat, which is at a distance of 1 hour drive from Joshimath. During the total trek, one has to cover a distance of around 17 km one side upto Valley of Flowers. A visit to Valley of Flowers gives a life long memory to trekkers.

Know more about trekking : http://www.hill-stations-india.com/holidays-in-hill-stations/trekking-in-india.html

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/exotic-locations-articles/himalayan-trekking-1120190.html

Garhwal and Kumaon regions are situated in one of the beautiful Himalayan states, Uttarakhand. A paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, Garhwal and Kumaon areas have been endowed with spiritual bliss and fascinating beauty.

Himalayan foothills of Garhwal and Kumaon are ideal for trekking enthusiasts. The evergreen hills here are covered with dense forests of Deodar, Oak and Pine trees and have been blessed with flora, fauna and a number of bird species. These areas are also famous for Hindu pilgrimage tours. It attracts trekkers from around the world to quench their thirst of exploring nature in Himalayas.

Trekking in Himalayas gives you an unforgettable life experience of exploring the rugged beauty of its lofty mountains covered with snow and evergreen Pine forests. These mountains have the potential of touching the adventure freak in anyone. Apart from trekking there are enormous opportunities for adventure lovers in Himalayas.

Major Trekking Routes of Garhwal and Kumaon Regions

Kedarnath-Vasuki Tal Trek

Kedarnath is a pilgrimage place of Hindus and is located at an altitude of 3,584 meters above mean sea level. Trekking on this route starts from Gaurikund. Gaurikund is famous for its hot water Sulphur springs and it is believed that a bath in Sulphur water treats all your ailments. Passing from dense green forests, blessed with a variety of flora, the trip ends at Vasuki Tal. Vasuki Tal is a beautiful lake with clear water and from here one can see beautiful peaks of Chaukhmba and Mandakini. The best season to visit is from May to June and August to October as the month of July witnesses heavy monsoon in this region.

Gangotri-Gaumukh-Nandavan-Tapovan Trek

This is one of the treks in Uttarakhand where a trekker can have all kinds of experiences from climbing mountains, traversing glaciers and rock climbing. On the way one has to cross jungles of Pine and Birch trees in Chir Basa and Bhojasa. Before reaching Tapovan, which is surrounded by many mountains, one has to cross the Gangotri glacier. This trekking route is a rare experience for trekkers seeking adventure and having basic knowledge about mountains.

Rishikesh-Pauri-Binsar Trek

This trekking expedition passes from rich forests of Oak, Pine, Deodar and Fir trees, which are a habitat for a number of species of birds. Rishikesh is a holy place of Hindus with famous temple of Lord Shiva located in its calm environment. It starts from Thalisain, located at an altitude of 1,579 meters above sea level and passes from enchanting hills of Pauri, to culminate at its destination, Binsar. Binsar is a picturesque place in Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand from where one can have a view of snowcapped Himalayan mountain range.

Know more about adventure activities in Himalayas : http://www.travel-himalayas.com/himalaya-adventure-activities-sports/

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/exotic-locations-articles/trekking-in-garhwal-kumaon-region-uttarakhand-1120220.html

There are two parts of the Bellows Beach, one is open only in weekends to the masses and general public from 7:00 AM- 8:00 PM and the other section is military-only part which remains open in weekdays only for military members.

In addition to the shallow waters perfect for beginner surfboarders and swimmers there are two lifeguard stations (on weekends and during summer). There are plenty of other facilities which make the beach more comfortable to spend a day and even if you want to spend a night. To spend a night, all you have to do is to get the camping permit. There is plenitude of picnic tables, shady areas, rest rooms, showers, reef area.

Cabins is the main attraction for military members and come with  a couple of room, kitchenettes, table, chairs, a couch, refrigerator, cable TV, barbecue and housekeeping services but it fills up quickly so book early. The reservations can be made up to one year (off season). Active duty AFS have the priority and for them reservations can be made 90 days in advance during the peak season.

Boogie Boarding is endearing of Bellows. Other attractions of Bellows include tennis courts, golf course, playgrounds, restaurants, driving ranges. Bellows Beach offers plethora of activities like horseback riding, bike tours, paintball sports, golf and many in water activities too. As mentioned, the beach is open for general public only in weekends it can get crowded and fills up quickly so book early for your convenience. There are number of hotels priced to fit every budget and can make your vacation a memorable one.

However , you should be cautious as there are stinging blue jellyfish also called Portuguese Man-O-War as it can ruin your day and also watch out for limu.  They are brought by the trade winds and can harm you so obey the rules.

Bellows Beach Park is among the guarded beaches of Oahu Island. Bellows is owned by the AFS and is military controlled beach. The military members also use the place for training. Along with the cabins Bellows provides the military members with many more facilities like beach club, mini-mart etc.

The closest airports to Bellows Beach are the Lanai Airport (LNY) in Lanai city approximately miles from Bellows Beach and the other one is the Kalaeloa Airport (JLF) in Kapolei which is about 23 miles from Bellows Beach.

The climate of Bellows is tropical. During winters of Hawaii, windstorms and rains are very frequent but does not stay for long and clear up within a day. The rainfall varies from location to location. Humidity is moderate but the pleasant winds make the weather comfortable and enjoyable.

Bellows Beach is a perfect place for those who are intriguing for pleasant tropical beach. Visiting this place, you will surely go back home with wonderful memories of this beach.

For more information about Hawaii Travel Guide, please visit our website.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/exotic-locations-articles/knowing-about-bellows-beach-1109019.html