Exploring nature is one of the common reasons why we go on road trips, and the trip from Guwahati to Tawang is one such trip. Having said that, you have to read this article completely to prepare yourself for the trip. It does require overnight halts and the journey is long. The average distance is about 510 kilometres and you need to obtain permits. One thing is certain, this trip of Northeast India will show you a side of India you haven’t seen before. So buckle up for this epic drive.

Best Time To Visit

Arunachal Pradesh is a state with multiple colours. From snow covered passes to tribal populations, from frozen lakes to gushing rivers, Arunachal Pradesh is one unique state. The drive to Tawang will show you a glimpse of all these flavours and hence, travelling at the right time is important. Both, peak monsoon season and peak winter season should be avoided for the trip. Generally speaking, the time period between February to May and October to December is a good time to hit the road. Another point to consider is the closing of the Sela Pass. Make sure you find out if the pass has been closed temporarily due to weather conditions.

Places To Eat In Tawang

The cuisine in Tawang is a beautiful blend of the traditional North Eastern food and the colourful influence of the Monpas. This makes the cuisine truly different and makes it stand out. Street food culture is also very famous in Tawang, giving it a vibrant colour. There are a certain must try which include Paratha Sabzi and Gyapa Khazi. Here, we have a small list which you can explore.

Orange Restaurant: In the easternmost state, this restaurant is like an oasis for food lovers. The service is efficient and the food is delicious. You will enjoy your meals even further when good music fills up the room.

Dragon Restaurant: It is said that, if you wish to savour the local dishes with the earthy regional taste, this is the place to be. There is a famous dish here called Churpi and we highly recommend you to try it.

Mon-Valley: This restaurant is located in a nice and airy region of Tawang. Try the Momos here. They are supposed to be really good.

Woodland Restaurant: Sit at the back corner in this restaurant and enjoy the beautiful sight of the Tawang monastery while you enjoy your meal. The restaurant serves a good selection of soups and local dishes without burning your pocket.

Route

Getting to Tawang from Guwahati, you have two options. Both routes take approximately the same time and cover a similar distance of about 500 kilometres.

Route:1 This route goes through NH13 and is slightly shorter.

Guwahati Baihata Sipajhar Kalaigaon Bhairabkund Kalaktang Rupa Rahung Marmang Tawang.

Route: 2 This route avoids traffic and can be taken if you want to have a relaxed, smooth drive.

Guwahati Khetri Nagaon Kaliabor Tezpur Balipara Bhalukpong Bomdila Dirang Marmang Tawang.

In this article, we would cover route: 2.

What to Eat and Stopovers

During your trip, there are multiple destinations where you can halt, explore the nearby attractions and then continue on your journey. Some of the well-known stopover points are.

Tezpur: On a relaxed, well timed trip, you can halt at Tezpur for the first night. It is a bustling commercial center. While you are there, and if time permits, do take a walk along the Brahmaputra, a wide river which is also calm. A perfect walk to end the first day in peace.

Nameri National Park: Another beautiful destination to park your car for the night. Not only is the park very diverse, but there are also multiple staying options. While you are there, try to get a tour by the forest guards. You can stay at the Eco Camps or a lodge or a resort.

Dirang: Dirang is a perfect stop for a small holiday or a relaxed night. It's a small hill station which comprises of an old settlement and a new town. While you are there, the hilltop fort should be on your list. You can find small hotels both in the old settlement as well as in the new town.

While you are travelling, try and consume light meals. If you are staying in high-end accommodation, you may experiment with the food but otherwise, stick to the basics.

Reaching There And Places To Visit

Reaching Tawang might take you upwards of 3 days depending on your stops and the time you have.  We would suggest you to pace your journey so you can enjoy the attractions which are on the way as well.

Day 1: Guwahati to Tezpur

Day2: Tezpur to Nameri National Park

Day3: Nameri National Park to Dirang

Day4: Dirang to Tawang

When you reach Tawang, there is no shortage of places and things to do. Make sure you have ample time to soak in the mesmerizing views, amazing Monasteries and the Giant Buddha Statue.

Tawang will capture your senses with its unparalleled beauty. You will be amazed at how nature has laid itself at every square inch of Tawang.

Sela Pass: The only high altitude mountain pass in the world which can be accessed by vehicles. You will be crossing the Sela Pass to reach Tawang. Do not miss the “Paradise Lake” while you are at Sela Pass. You will surely cherish the views of the sun kissing the mountain tops and rays being reflected off the frozen lake.

Tawang Monastery: Tawang Monastery is the second largest in Asia. Established in the 17th Century, its location is perfect. This is the place where young Buddhist monks learn about culture. Needless to say, this monastery is of high importance for followers of Buddhism.

Shonga-tser Lake: It used to be a grassland until an earthquake in 1971 caused it to become a lake. It is famously known as the “Madhuri Lake”. An absolute delight for the photographer in you, take a stroll along the pathways and soak in the magnificent views of the snow clad mountains.

Bap Teng Kang Waterfalls: Bap Teng Kang Waterfalls is located at around 80 kilometres from Tawang but is totally worth a visit. There is a reason this waterfall is one of the most visited, it's 100 feet high. Don't be surprised if you are tempted to swim looking at the crystal clear water. It is popularly known as the “BTK Falls”.

Jaswant Garh: Not many people fight for their motherland until their last breath. Jaswant Singh was one such brave soldier. Jaswant Singh Rawat, of the Indian Army, held this post against the Indo-China war in 1962. He stood at this position for 3 long days at an altitude of 10,000 feet. Something we can't even imagine of doing. Today, Jaswant Garh stands tall as our gratitude to the brave soul.

A road trip from Mumbai to Pune is the ultimate urban touring experience that can be completed in 2 days. All petrol heads like to undertake this super fast and super smooth journey that connects two of Maharashtra’s most cosmopolitan cities. This exciting road trip is what a real traveller plans whenever there is time on hand. The best part of this journey is that it can be undertaken on a long weekend. You can plan the food stops and shopping halts all along the way. You can take an overnight break at Lonavala as well. Western India is full of fun-filled trails that are ideal for a memorable road trip. Bikers and automobile aficionados are always on a lookout for newer routes for a road trip. The excitement of setting out on a road trip is simply incomparable.

One of the most famous routes for an enjoyable and comfortable road trip starts in Mumbai and ends at Pune. The historically famous places amaze the tourists with fantastic things to see en route. Della Adventure Park, Lohgad Fort, Rajmachi Fort, One Kiss Tunnel, Neelkantheshwar Temple, Ekveera Devi Temple, Bhimashankar, Karla Caves, and Pawna Lake are some of the most beautiful places that you can plan to visit on your way to Pune. Plenty of superb restaurants and dhabas will take care of your food cravings. This exciting trip will expose you to the hustle-bustle and razzle-dazzle of two of the most glamorous cities of western India. Let us look at all the important aspects of this amazing journey.

Best Time To Visit

The most ideal time period is between October to January and June to August as the climate is pleasant during the winters and the monsoon is breathtakingly beautiful. The drop in the temperature gives a much needed relief to the bikers and drivers on this road trip. The Western Ghats present a magnificent view all through the year. However, winter and monsoon are two of the best seasons to enjoy the weather and natural beauty through the road trip. Maharashtra’s warm and robust culture can be witnessed when you undertake a road trip from Mumbai to Pune.

Places To Eat

Maharashtrian cuisine is delicious and there are a lot of amazing places to explore the local dishes like Misal-Pav, Vada-Pav, Kande Pohe, Upma, Thalipeeth, Sheera, and Maharashtrian Veg or Non-Veg Thaali. There are at least 5-6 restaurants with options for all preferences of cuisine. It is a great idea to sample local dishes made from local ingredients. Rama Krishna, Rudra’s Kailash Parbat Restaurant, Golden Wada Pav Food Stall, Manashakti Research Centre Restaurant, Homely Food Joshi’s Sanatorium, Sheetal Da Dhaba, Sunny Da Dhaba, Kinara Village Dhaba, La Boulangerie Bakery, Ganesh Pav Bhaji Center, and Blue Water are some of the best restaurants en route Pune. Sheetal Da Dhaba has friendly and warm staff. The chicken biryani at this joint is simply delectable. You can even enjoy their famous gajar-ka-halwa. Blue Water is famous for Paneer Makhanwala and Prawn in Butter Garlic. At Manshakti, you can enjoy Maharashtrian delicacies like Sabudana Khichdi, Pohe, and Vada Pav. Please make sure that you have informed the restaurant owner about your preferences. Many eateries serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is also advisable to pack some snacks for the journey. The various Dhabaas are a great choice for planning your meals with your friends and fellow travellers on the road trip.

Route

The highways of Maharashtra are smooth and safe for a road trip. A road trip from Mumbai to Pune will cover a distance of 148 km. A road trip from Mumbai to Pune will take around three to four hours depending on the detours undertaken by you. The usual routes between Mumbai and Pune (around 140 to 160 kilometres), a route with detours will be around 340 kilometres or more if you take an overnight halt at a hotel. If you are travelling in a car then you can use the super fast and super smooth Expressway. However, if you are planning to travel on the bike then you will have to use the Old Bombay-Puna Highway. Since it is a journey that can be undertaken in a day, you can plan it over a long weekend of 2-3 days. The route will make you witness the warm and cosmopolitan culture of Maharashtra. Rural Maharashtra is rugged and it is exciting to explore the forts, temples, and local food. You will begin at the Megapolis called Mumbai and travel to a historically significant city of Pune which is a distance of about 148-155 kilometres from Mumbai which can be covered in around 3 h 10 min via Bengaluru - Mumbai Highway/Mumbai Highway/Mumbai - Pune Highway. Get on NH 48 in Mukai Nagar, Pimpri-Chinchwad from Bengaluru-Mumbai Highway/ Mumbai Highway/ Mumbai-Pune Highway. Head southwest on Dadar TT flyover. Use the left lane to merge with Dr.babasaheb Ambedkar Road. Take the exit towards Dr.Babasaheb Ambedkar Road. Make a U-turn at Dadar TT. Continue onto Dadar TT flyover. Continue onto King Circle flyover. Continue onto Sion Hospital flyover. Continue onto Rashtrsevika Laxmibai Kelkar Marg. Keep right to continue on Chunabhatti flyover and Sion flyover. Continue onto Eastern Express Highway / Mumbai – Agra National Highway. Turn right onto Ghatkopar Mankhurd Link Road. Slight left onto Kachra Depot Road. Slight Right. Slight right toward Ghatkopar - Mankhurd Link Rd/Jeejabai Bhosale Marg. Continue straight onto Ghatkopar - Mankhurd Link Rd/Jeejabai Bhosale Marg. Turn left. Merge with Bengaluru - Mumbai Hwy/Mumbai Hwy/Mumbai - Pandharpur Rd/Mumbai - Pune Hwy/Sion - Panvel Expy. Keep right to continue on Bengaluru - Mumbai Hwy/Mumbai Hwy/Mumbai - Pune Hwy. Keep right and merge onto NH 48. Continue on NH 48 to your destination in Shobhapur, Pune.

What To Eat And Stopovers

The road trip from Mumbai to Pune will present you with many gastronomical delights. There are at least 5-6 restaurants with options for all preferences of cuisine. Maharashtrian cuisine is delicious and there are a lot of amazing places to explore the local dishes like Thalipeeth, Sheera, and Maharashtrian Veg or Non-Veg Thaali, Misal-Pav, Vada-Pav, Kande Pohe, and Upma. It is a great idea to sample local dishes made from local ingredients. The food mall en route expressway is a good place for a quick bite. There are the usual options like MacDonald and KFC. The Vada Pav at the food mall is fresh and popular. There are washrooms and parking facilities at the food mall. You can even try a variety of fruit juices. Rama Krishna, Rudra’s Kailash Parbat Restaurant, Golden Wada Pav Food Stall, Manashakti Research Centre Restaurant, Homely Food Joshi’s Sanatorium, Sheetal Da Dhaba, Sunny Da Dhaba, Kinara Village Dhaba, La Boulangere Bakery, Ganesh Pav Bhaji Center, and Blue Water are some of the best restaurants en route Pune. Sheetal Da Dhaba has friendly and warm staff. The chicken biryani at this joint is simply delectable. You can even enjoy their famous gajar-ka-halwa. Blue Water is famous for Paneer Makhanwala and Prawn in Butter Garlic. At Manshakti, you can enjoy Maharashtrian delicacies like Sabudana Khichdi, Pohe, and Vada Pav.

Reaching There And Places To Visit

Pune is an ancient city with great historical importance. During your journey, you can take a detour and visit Della Adventure Park, Lohgad Fort, Rajmachi Fort, One Kiss Tunnel, Neelkantheshwar Temple, Ekveera Devi Temple, Bhimashankar, Karla Caves, and Pawna Lake. Once you reach Pune, there are amazing things to see, visit and explore. Aga Khan Palace – A Palace built in the 19th century by Aga Khan and it is also the site of Mahatma Gandhi's two year imprisonment in the 1940s. Sinhagad Fort, a historically significant fort that attracts hoards of visitors all throughout the year. Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum is a three-storey building that is home to various sculptures dating back to the 14th century. Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple in Pune is dedicated to Ganesh. It is one of the most popular temples in Maharashtra and is visited by thousands all through the year. The annual ten-day Ganeshotsav festival is vibrant and a thing of great pride for the people of Pune. Pune has plenty of amazing locations that visitors can explore. You can visit Khadakwasla Dam, Lal Mahal, Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, Pashan Lake, and Mulshi Dam. Make sure you have all the necessary information about timings and entry fees before visiting the museums and parks.

The road trip from Jaipur to Ranthambore is a perfect blend of royalty and wilderness. And you may have such unique experiences that you may certainly turn into a storyteller.

Best Time To Visit

The best time for a road trip from Jaipur to Ranthambore is between October and April. After April, it is torturously hot. Post the extreme summers, it pours heavily till September. November and December are extremely cold, but still conducive for a road trip with some woolen clothing on.

Places To Eat At Ranthambore

Chokhi Dhani serves authentic Rajasthani fare.

Oberoi Vanyavilas boasts about a fantastic dining experience. If you go there, you cannot miss the sinful watermelon and goat cheese amuse-bouche and the rose petal panna cotta.

Streets are replete with samosas and kachoris, which are delectable.

Route

Route 1: Jaipur – Chaksu – Vanasthali – Tonk – Sawai Madhopur via NH52 and NH552

This route for the Jaipur to Ranthambore road trip is a driving distance of 191 kilometres. It takes three and a half hours.

What To Eat And Stopovers

This trip of 200 kilometres has myriads of dhabas and stalls. One cannot guarantee the quality of the street food though.

The road is in a state-of-the-art condition and has ample opportunities where you can halt and click pictures. Certain spots are so scenic that your Instagram feed might just get crowded with pictures of those vistas.

Reaching There And Places To Visit

• Ranthambore National Park – This tiger shelter welcomes you with open arms. People from all over the world come to visit this animal house. It is close to 400 sq.km. It has beauty, nature and wildlife - all in one place. Safari timings are well laid out. It houses tigers, hyenas, jackals, elephants, leopards to name a few.
• Ranthambore Fort – This fort has played an important role in taking Rajasthan tourism to another level. It is famous as rulers in ancient days used to come here for hunting. In addition, near the fort, you can see valleys, lakes, picnic spots, wildlife species etc.
• Padam Talao – This lake is replete with Lily flowers and that’s how it gets its name. It is the largest lake inside Ranthambore National Park. At the edge of this lake is the very famous Jogi Mahal.
• Dastkar Ranthambore – It’s a must visit. You can see women creating the most intricate and gorgeous bags and other products.
• Last but not least, a place for art lovers is Ranthambore School of Art. You can relive your moments to see wildlife species on canvas.

Points To Note While Planning The Trip (Four Wheeler/ Bike)

Ensure that you are carrying a spare tyre/stepney in the car. It is also helpful to know how to change tyre. One must also be adept at tinkering with what lies under the hood. The ability to conduct basic repairs comes very handy if your vehicle gets stuck at a place where there are no mechanics. Ensure that your cell phone is charged and you are carrying car and portable chargers. Pack ample snacks and few bottles of water. Carry a hammer which could be used to break car windows in case you get stuck in the car. Also make sure that your car insurance policy or Two Wheeler Insurance policy is not expired.

Diesel/Petrol Pumps

There are upwards of 20 fuel stations of Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum and HP on this route so one will have ample supply of fuel at all times on this road trip.

Road trips make us spark our wanderlust emotions back to reality. Life can drain much of our energy and we tend to forget to live the life we wanted to live. That is the magic road trips create. If you are considering a road trip, let your emotions flow, but at the same time, you should minimize your travelling risk. Road trips are more than just packing your bags and hitting the roads. And that’s where we can guide you.

Best Time To Visit

The best time for this memorable Jaipur to Jaisalmer road trip is between the months of November to February, the winter season. This is when the desert sun is kind and daytime is pleasant. Remaining parts of the year can be either too warm or too wet, both unconducive for a road trip. Summers, between April and June, are unbearably scorching, whereas monsoon, July to September, is rather pleasant, but may not be recommended for a road trip.

Places To Eat At Jaisalmer

The most frequented places in Jaisalmer for traditional food are:

1. Restaurant Romany at Hanuman Chowk, on roof-top of Hotel Prithvi Palace. Order the to-die-for Shahi Rajasthani Thali out here.

2. 1st Gate Home Fusion atop a hotel of the same name, this open terrace restaurant gives you spectacular views and offers scrumptious Italian dishes like Fusilli with Vegan Pesto for vegetarians.

3. The Trio offers traditional food again served in unique Rajasthani crockery with a Rajasthani feeling by giving amazing views of the old bazaar. Don’t forget the ‘chai in kullad’.

Route

Route 1: Jaipur - Jobner - Kuchaman – Nagaur Rd via NH11

This route for the Jaipur to Jaisalmer journey is a driving distance of 560 kilometres. It takes close to 10 hours by this route.

Route 2: Jaipur - Ajmer – Jodhpur – Jaisalmer via NH 48 and NH 45

This route takes a little over 10 hours.

What To Eat And Stopovers

One staple dish in Rajasthan is Dal baati churma - state's classic signature dish, which is available in restaurants and also is a famous street food.

Another dish commonly available is Gatte ki subzi. And the last but the most scrumptious is pyaaz kachori.

You may consider the first halt at Nagaur and satisfy your palate for Rajasthani cuisine at Rajbhog restaurant. You cannot miss the Rajasthani thali there. Alternatively at the Food Court & Café for more cuisines like Indian, American and Fast Food. Next halt could be at Phalodi. The sought after experiences here are visiting a heritage place called Hotel Lal Niwas, which is known for traditional Indian food and spending time at Old Town Café & Lounge with unique junk themed interiors.

These are well maintained and well serviced with hygienic restrooms and water. However, there are many other options on the way, which you could explore.

You may consider halting at Krishnagarh fort to immerse into the unseen remains of a gigantic and an imposing fortress with huge walls towering high above the lake. It was built in 1649 and is known to be the epitome of the Rajputs and Mughals architecture.

Another highly recommended halt is in Pushkar. It is engulfed with mountains and in between is the picturesque Pushkar Lake. The top of all the highlights is the most renowned temple of all, the Brahmaji Temple dating back to the 14th century. It is the finest existence of Hindu architecture.

Reaching There And Places To Visit

Jaisalmer, the Golden city is distinguished by yellow sandstone architecture.

• This city’s skyline is dominated by a sprawling desert fort, the Jaisalmer fort. It is amongst the very few ‘living forts’ as even now some of the city’s population lives inside the fort.
• The other magnificent place here is Patwon ki Haveli. It used to be a series of 1800s palaces, but now a museum not worth missing. It features intricate carvings, furniture & artwork. It is the first ever haveli erected in Jaisalmer.
• Another destination to soak yourself in is the famous Gadisar Lake, built by the first ruler of Jaisalmer and it was used as the only water supply to the entire city. Lake is artistically carved by Chattris, Temples, Shrines, and Ghats. You can go boating and click a few memorable pictures.  It will be an unforgettable experience with friendly boatmen giving an overview and anecdotes about the place.

Road trips in India offer an exhilarating experience to the entire family. One has to take care of certain factors, which can otherwise upset your apple cart such as weather, car servicing, route, etc. But the thrill in terms of what India has to offer is unparalleled.

And Agra fits the bills on all fronts, world class roads, royal feel and a relatively quick drive from Delhi. Agra had traditionally been the religious and commercial centre for centuries. Later on, Mughals took over. Today, Agra is overwhelmingly hosted as Shah Jahan’s Taj Mahal. The drive to Agra is royal, smooth and larger-than-life.

If you want to feel the Mughal era, get a car, munchies, good company. What better than this for a good weekend and to unshackle from the city life!

Best Time To Visit

October to March is undoubtedly the best time to visit Agra. This is the time when the heat has ebbed and it is the onset of winter, when the weather is pleasantly cold making it perfect for sightseeing. It is unbearably sultry from April to July. Due to the geographical positions of these places, the winters are cold and the summers are sweating hot. August marks the start of the monsoon in Agra and is a great time to witness the Taj Mahal in its rain-washed splendour.

Places To Eat

Agra cuisine is influenced by the way Mughals ate, which is meat with rich curries with true-to-Indian origin spices. Parathas also originate from here. As such, most restaurants serve rich curries and tongue tickling kebabs with parathas.

One extremely popular dessert is “Agra ka Petha”. It is made from white pumpkin or sometimes ash gourd and flavoured with nuts.

You can visit the following restaurants:

• Esphahan is Agra’s finest restaurant, which is located inside the stunning Oberoi Amarvilas hotel. It is famous for North Indian tandoor dishes and Kerala shrimp curry. The atmosphere is soothing, as live santoor players play music in the background.
• Shankar Ji is a local dhaba, for an authentic dhaba experience.
• Saniya Palace is known to have one of the best views of the Taj Mahal. At the same time, this rooftop restaurant offers good ambience.

Route

Distance between Delhi to Agra is 233 kms. Delhi to Agra by road takes between 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic. It is expected to take at least 4 hours approximately through Yamuna Expressway if you leave in the morning hours after 9 am or 10 am. If you leave early in the morning i.e. 6 am, it can take as less as 3 hours. The road is smooth and easy. Also, there are many routes from Delhi to Agra, however, the most expensive and the fastest route is via the Yamuna Expressway, starting from Noida to Agra. And the signboards and patrolling Bike on the highway are very helpful while driving.

What To Eat And Stopovers

Meat marinated in Indian spices, Naan, a thick creamy Lassi completes a North Indian meal. On your way to the city of Agra, you will find tons of such legendary dhabas like Gulshan ka Dhaba, Amrik Sukhdev Dhaba and Pahalwan Dhaba at Murthal. Most of them have comfortable and air-conditioned seating with clean washrooms. You will also find Mc Donalds near Mathura.

Reaching There And Places To Visit

The epic iconic majestic Taj Mahal is the most of the times the main reason to select Agra as a destination. There many other memorable spots to Agra, which are unique to Agra.

• Agra Fort is a historical fort boasting of Islamic architecture. It used to be the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638.
• Tomb of I'timād-ud-Daulah often described as "jewel box" or "Bacha Taj" is a Mughal mausoleum.
• Meena Bazaar, where the ladies shop handicrafts, souvenirs, etc.
• Last and the best is the Taj Mahal, ivory-white marble mausoleum. It was made IN 1632 by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, for his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It also houses the tomb of Shah Jahan.

Are you planning a road trip this summer? A road trip from Bangalore to Goa is one for your bucket list even with the long distance and stressful driving hours. The Bangalore to Goa road trip is a scenic ride with amazing places to stop at and eat sumptuous meals.

Best Time To Visit

Goa is known for its calm and balmy weather between November and March. These are the best months to visit Goa and enjoy the gorgeous sea breeze and clear blue skies. Winter in Goa is the peak tourist season with visitors from all over the globe. Beach parties, night markets, pop up restaurants are the things to look out for during this time. If you intend to visit and spend Christmas or New Year’s, make sure you book in advance.

For those who love to be on quieter end, monsoon would be an ideal time to plan a visit. Anytime between June and September is great because the rains bring out the lush greens of the fields across the state.

Route

There are two different route options to reach Goa from Bangalore all via NH48. The whole trip is a thrilling road journey where the highways are well maintained and fun to drive on.

• Route 1 is via NH48 which the Karwar Route. It is a scenic drive with lots of beautiful places which are worthy of a pit stop. The scenery is stunning and genuinely worthy of every stop you make and collect memories along the way on this trip.

The route takes you from Bengaluru – Nelamangala – Tumkur – Chitradurga – Sirsi – Ankola – Karwar – Panjim and it is 556 kilometres by car. The journey will take approximately 11 hours to reach your destination.

• Route 2 is also via NH48, -through the Belgaum Route. This too is a scenic drive, and your pit stops are filled with attractive, picturesque and undulating landscape.

The route takes you from Bengaluru – Nelamangala – Tumkur – Chitradurga – Hubli – Dharwad – Ramnagar – Anmod – Panjim; it takes approximately 12 hours to reach Panjim. Here you are covering a distance of 643 kilometres.

What To Eat And Stopovers

There are exciting places to eat at along with making exhilarating stopovers which beckon you to take in mother natures in its true essence. Once you cross Yellapur, you are driving through lush green forests leading to NH66. Here you get to experience the two magnificent waterfalls the Vibhuuti and the Magod. This is also known as an express road compared to other routes. The drive from Dharwad to Goa is strikingly beautiful.

Driving all the way through Mahadayi Wild Life sanctuary, you will see several waterfalls during the monsoons. Magnificent valley views and the exceptional roads make this an enjoyable drive. Stop over at locations to enjoy the beautiful valley views. Chill at any of these places and eat the delicious southern eateries and dhabas serving food that’s delightful.

Along the way, you can make breakfast and lunch stops at these places:

• Sri Guru Kottureshwara Benne Dose Hotel – has acquired legendary status among those who drive on the highway. The restaurant is famous for its rich variety of dosas. It is approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes outside Bangalore, and is one of the best places to fill yourself with much needed food for the soul.
• Kamat Upachar, Dobaspet is about 63 kilometres outside Bangalore and is known for the local cuisines served piping hot for hungry travellers. The eatery is close to the Reliance Petrol/Diesel Pump as well. So refuelling yourself and your vehicle is ideal. The journey will take approximate 1 hour 36 minutes by road via NH75.
• Café Coffee Day, Arasikere via NH75 is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes from Bangalore and serves hot coffee when it's most needed on a road trip. The view is scenic and fresh air will energise you for the next few hours on the road.
• Updhaya Veg, which is on the way to Chitradurga after the windmills offer a great drive for nature lovers. It is an excellent place for a stopover because it serves amazingly tasty and delightful food. Also, an ideal spot for couples to check out the scenery and capture memories.
• Sai Palace is yet another place to stopover for hearty meals for the family, especially if it is for brunch. The eatery is approximately 2 hours and 42 minutes outside of Bangalore.
  
• Mollem Karibu Garden Restaurant: It a great restaurant to stop for lunch, best known for its service and food. The ambience is peaceful and refreshing. A homely place on the way to Dudhsagar falls.
• Roshan Restaurant: It has a pleasant environment with homely staff with good food. They have great veg dishes and some lovely fish, served with a smile. Well worth the ten-minute walk if you're staying at the nearby Spa Resort.
• Bhalekar Hotel: If its seafood you love and relish Malwani cuisine, take a lunch break in Sawantwadi. Try their mutton or Malvani fish thali. If you are brave to adventure out and try some authentic Malvani or Konkani food, then this is the place to go. Bhalekar's is a shack so do not expect top class ambience, only great food.
• Amruth Hotel: This is a seafood speciality restaurant best suited for lunch in Karwar. Try the crab ghee roast, prawns, oysters. Fish thali is a must try along with mussel sukka, fish masala fry and anjal tawa fry.
• Swetha Lunch Home: This is an authentic seafood restaurant which specializes in Konkani cuisine. It is an unpretentious little place with the most delectable food! Try their crabs, prawns and other sea fish preparations which are perhaps the best that you will have on your road trip between Bangalore and Goa.

If you are on the Belgaum route you can stop for an early lunch in Belgaum which offers good options. Else, there are many suitable options like the Delta Eco Huts on the highway before turning to Surla falls.

Reaching There And Places To Visit

Deserving detours and pit stops -when you drive via Hubli and Karwar, starts with Chitradurga, which is a 100 kilometres on the NH48 that is known for its huge boulders and mesmerising valleys.

Here are some of the places that you should visit en-route through NH48:

• Onake Obbava: NH48 is well-known for its stone fort with seven round walls, huge grindstones and oil cauldrons amongst other things. The renowned marvel of Onake Obbava, where a soldier’s wife, all alone subjugated Mysore’s Hyder Ali’s soldiers, who furtively tried to get into the fort to attack them is something that you should check out.
• Ranebennur: Just a few kilometres from the town of Ranebennur, you come across the famous Ranebennur Blackbuck Deer Sanctuary. It was declared as a sanctuary to protect the blackbucks, and the endangered species - the Great Indian Bustard. It also has a healthy wolf population, a rare sight in India – perfect for nature lovers.
• Anshi-Dandeli Tiger Reserve: This opens between 06:00 – 18:00 hrs and is located off the NH63, and has Kali Adventure Camp, which is known for its white water rafting.
• Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary: If you have a passion for the wildlife, you will undoubtedly love the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary that opens between 07:00 – 17:30 hrs, a sight to see with gorgeous sky high tall trees. If you are a treetop watchtower, get above the watering holes and observe the flying squirrels, the slender loris and a diverse sanctuary of beautiful animals here.
• Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary & Mollem National Park: If you want to take a shorter route drive via Ponda, the gateway to Goa’s wildlife through the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park which is open between 08:00 – 17:00 hrs. It is a protected quarter because of the endemic species of flora and fauna it houses. It also has quite a lot of attractions and requires an entry permit. The Dudhsagar waterfalls, that’s renowned for trekking makes a great place to visit, and it is a part of the park. A must visit is the Butterfly Conservatory which is open between 09:00 – 16:30 hrs. The sanctuary has specific guided tours on Sundays and serves meals and a trek.

If you want to take a less travelled route try the one via Shimoga, Honnavar and Karwar. There is a lot on offer, and it will be a welcome break in the journey around Shimoga.

• Baba Budangiri range: Visit the Baba Budangiri range in the western ghats. It is a pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Muslims with shrines of Sufi Saint Baba Budan, on the hill. It is a famous trail from here to Mulayangiri peak, it is also the highest in Karnataka. The route is an excellent trekking experience for adventurous people. The trek is spotted with many caves. It is apparently frequented by saints, and it’s a challenge for courageous people.
• Kemmangundi: Kemmangundi is close by a small hill station which has mesmerising ornamental gardens with a view of the hill and valley. It also has a government horticulture department project that’s a nursery.
• Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: A must visit is the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary which opens between 06:00 – 10:00 hrs and 15:00 – 18:00 hrs, its en-route Shimoga. It has a diversity of ecotypes like the shola forests and mountain grasslands. It is also a part of Project Tiger and has about a small population of 33 magnificent tigers. Along with it are the Tunga and Bhadra rivers that pass through the sanctuary.

The road trip between Delhi and Ranthambore can still be identified as a significant amalgamation of the regal charm of a city that likes to take a walk along the wild side. The highway which connects Ranthambore to Delhi is a picturesque drive that is abundantly speckled with beautiful towns and villages. This absolutely exemplifies the region’s rich heritage and exquisite culture.

Best Time To Visit

Home to the majestic tigers, the Ranthambore National Park only remains open during certain times of the year. The park opens on the 1^st of October, right after the monsoons, till 30^th June every year.

Most travellers who frequently visit this region agree that the best time to visit the area is between October and February. The winters can be quite pleasant with temperatures ranging between 8°C - 15°C.

Summer, on the other hand, could get scalding with temperatures skyrocketing to 45°C. While the days have such high temperatures, the scorching heat dries most of the vegetation making tiger sightings probable. Animals in the summer heat can be frequently found near water holes, making them traceable.

The park remains closed during the monsoons. While you can explore the region, entry to the park is prohibited.

Route

There are three routes that you can select from when embarking on your road trip to Ranthambore from Delhi.

• Not the fastest route, but comes highly recommended is driving via NH 48 and NH148
• Delhi to Ranthambore via RJ SH 25
• Alternatively, take the NH 48

Route 1:

This route takes you via the NH 48 and NH 148 and is around 394 kms in distance. Time taken while driving on this route is about 8 hrs and 24 mins.

Delhi – Gurugram – Neemrana – Dausa – Sawai Madhopur - Ranthambore

Route 2:

You take around 8 hours and 29 minutes covering 376 kms via the RJ SH 25 route.

Delhi – Gurugram – Alwar – Lalsot – Sawai Madhopur – Ranthambore

Route 3:

Even with a longer distance of 457 kms, the time taken is probably the shortest at 8 hours and 23 minutes.

Delhi – Gurugram – Neemrana – Jaipur – Vanasthali – Sawai Madhopur – Ranthambore

What To Eat And Stopovers

Whichever route you choose to take, you will come across several attractions. Many are historical but a lot of them natural too. Take some time out and explore them.

• Neemrana Fort Palace: Converted into a luxury heritage hotel, this is one of the main attractions on the Delhi – Ranthambore route. This was established as a fort way back in 1467 by Raja Dup and was the capital of the Chauhan dynasty.
• Sariska National Park: Cushioned between the breath-taking Aravalli Hills, Sariska is a must see when you pass through Neemrana. Its dense forests, lush green grasslands are home to a healthy tiger population along with other species such as leopards, jungle cat, dhole, hyenas and chital amongst many others.
• Bala Quila or Alwar Fort: Bala Quila constructed on a hilltop in the Aravalli range, is possibly the oldest gem in the Alwar sightseeing list. Adding to the fort’s magnificence is its 15 large and 51 small towers. This makes it one of the architectural wonders which are worth witnessing in person. As you climb all the way to the top, you can catch spectacular views of the city.
• Angeethi: As you pop into Alwar for a bit of exploring, take some time out to drop into this budget restaurant that serves a limited yet mighty delicious menu. With a humble ambience, the taste and quality of food make your visit really worth.
• Peacock Rooftop Restaurant at Hotel Pearl Palace: This all-day restaurant has been themed after a peacock, which also boasts of a rooftop seating arrangement. As you drive through Jaipur, drop in here to sip a drink or grab a bite as you sit and admire the old Hathroi Fort, which is located only a few metres away.
• Rajasthani Midway: Focussing on the Indian cuisines, Rajasthani Midway is a great traditional restaurant located in Mahwah, near Jaipur. You have the option of outdoor seating where you can sit and sip a cup of ginger tea along with steaming hot chicken samosas. The restaurant also offers a vegetarian menu. It might be a tad bit expensive, but worth every penny that you spend.
• Rajasthan Motel: A popular haunt for tourists driving between Delhi and Ranthambore, great food, great service and great people are what truly defines Rajasthan Motel. Located in Dausa on Bharatpur Road, just midway between Jaipur and Agra, it has been voted one of the best places to stop for a bite. Apart from chicken tikka masala, which is absolutely delicious, you can access free Wi-fi and indulge in some retail therapy with their attached lifestyle store.
• Food Plaza: A master in Indian, Chinese and Argentinian cuisines, Food Plaza, is undoubtedly, the king of the roads. Located close to Balaji temple in Mahwah, you will get tasty, freshly cooked food which will not pinch a hole in your pocket. They have a live kitchen and some of their must try items on the menu are kadai paneer, vegetarian thali and seal the meal with a glass of good cold lassi.
• Highway Tadka: Known for their variety in food, Highway Tadka caters to a global palette with dishes ranging across Indian, fast food, Asian, diner style, vegetarian and vegan options to choose from. Tourists highly recommend this joint and it can cater to big group lunches too.

Reaching There And Places To Visit

Ranthambore is undoubtedly world famous for its national park. However, there are other attractions in the region which draw travellers from far and wide.

• Ranthambore National Park: Topping the list is this tiger reserve that is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise. With a tiger population of 70, this is the perfect forest for safaris, nature hikes, bird watching and several other thrilling activities.
• Ranthambore Fort: This 8^th century fort is believed to have been built by the Chauhan dynasty, making it a must for your Ranthambore sightseeing list. There are lakes, multiple species of flora and fauna around the fort making it a hotspot picnic destination amongst decades of history.
• Surwal Lake: Located among pictographic settings, Surwal Lake is a haven for migratory birds during the winter season. And if it is tranquillity that you are after, then this is certainly the place to be.
• Dastkar Ranthambore: You may be on a peaceful getaway, but there is never any harm in indulging in some retail therapy. Rajasthan is famous for its artisan crafts, art, etc. Dastkar Ranthambore was an initiative started to resettle communities in the Sawai Madhopur area directed towards reviving local craftsmanship such as tie-dye, block printing, patchwork, etc.
• Raj Bagh Ruins: Ranthambore National Park gets a touch of Rajasthan’s royalty from the Raj Bagh ruins that remain standing magnificently even today. The ruins still retain their sense of uniqueness, making them a sought after destination of the list.
• Jogi Mahal: Initially used as a rest house or a hunting lodge located on the edge of Padam Lake, Jogi Mahal is one of the most photographed monuments in the region. Next to it stands a large banyan tree which is among the biggest in the country. Constructed by the royal family of Jaipur, catch a glimpse as you take an early morning gipsy safari.
• Kachida Valley: Encircled by rugged mountains makes this valley a relatively unexplored sight in Ranthambore. Kachida is surrounded by lush green vegetation with a thriving population of panthers and bears. Apart from the Rathambore National Park, this should be next on your list of wildlife sightings.

Overnight Halts If Any

Even if this is an 8 hour+ drive, there are tons of locations along the route where you can halt for a night, not necessarily because you are tired but just as an opportunity to explore the sights along the way.

• Ramada by Wyndham Neemrana: Neemrana can be your first stop where you get the chance to explore the grand and imposing Neemrana Fort Palace. The hotel is a mid-range property and is located just off the Delhi-Jaipur Highway. With well-appointed rooms displaying modern designs, the hotel is a welcoming sight for a tired traveller. As you drive towards Ranthambore, the Ramada by Wyndham Neemrana is a perfect mid-way stopover on your road trip.
• V Resorts Utsav Camp: Stay extravagantly amongst enormous topography in the cushion precinct of Sariska National Park and discover not only wildlife and forests but also numerous dwellings of archival significance. The harmonious sound of wind rustling leaves, strolling peacocks, little groves, the perfect vista of Aravalli hills, and the perfume of wildflowers is sure to indulge your sanities. A short break in the V Resorts Utsav Camp will certainly delight you with boundless exhilaration.

Stay And Eat At Other Eating Places

Ranthambore is located in the small district of Sawai Madhopur which can charm your taste buds in a variety of ways. For those not aware, the region is well known for its sweet treats.

• The Oberoi Vanyavilas – Ranthambore: If you are happy to splurge then this is the place for you to do it. Topping the list of fine dining experiences in Ranthambore, the Oberoi Vanyavilas is an unforgettable experience. With tented rooms, that defines luxury, brings the sound of the jungle as you lie in your king-sized beds. Take an early morning walk through the grounds and indulge in some bird watching as this a haven for a variety of bird species. The food and ambience are amazing. Menu options include international as well as Indian cuisine. Service is prompt, friendly and attentive. Remember to try their chicken and mustard baguette which is simply delicious.
• Vivanta by Taj - Sawai Madhopur Lodge: Offering a much more reasonable stay, the Vivanta by Taj - Sawai Madhopur Lodge is a heritage property is located only 3 kms. from the railway station and 20 minutes from the national park. A former hunting lodge of the Maharaja of Rajasthan built in 1930, the Taj Group of hotels converted into a luxury accommodation that is spread across 12 acres of the forest. Offering international dining at its restaurants, the food is absolutely a delight for your taste buds with a service experience that is spot on.

A road trip brings joy to travellers like no other travelling experience. Kolkata to Puri is a fabulous journey that will create an ultimate adventurous experience. Eastern India is full of beautiful trails that are perfect for a fun-filled road trip. Bikers and automobile aficionados are always on a lookout for newer destinations for a road trip. The sheer anticipation and thrill of embarking on a road trip are unmatched by any other journey. The sights, smells, and human experiences create a lifetime of memories.

One of the most famous routes for a thrilling road trip starts at Kolkata and ends at Puri. The historically famous places enchant travellers with amazing things to see en route. Chilika Lake, Shree Jagannath Temple, Konark Sun Temple, Puri Beach, and Handicrafts of Pipli are some of the most famous destinations in Odisha. Puri is one of the most famous cities in the state of Odisha. Puri is situated on the east coast by the Bay of Bengal. Konark is a fascinating town situated in Puri District in the State of Odisha. A journey from Kolkata to Puri is full of amazing features. This enchanting trip will make you witness the cultural heritage of eastern India. Let us look at all the important aspects of this fantastic journey.

Best Time To Visit

The most ideal time period is between July to March and December to February as the climate is pleasant and you can enjoy the beautiful sight of flora and fauna. The drop in the temperature makes the journey pleasant for the bikers and drivers. The Eastern part of India presents a fabulous view all through the year. However, winter and monsoon are two of the best seasons to enjoy the weather and natural beauty through the road trip. The warm and welcoming culture of West Bengal and Odisha can be witnessed when you undertake a road trip from Kolkata to Puri.

Places To Eat

Bengali and Oriya cuisine is delicious and there are a lot of fantastic places to explore the local dishes like Pakhala, Khichdi, Dalma, Santula, Kanika, Chaatu Rai, Kadali Manja Rai, Besara, Amba Khatta, Dahi Baigana, Ou Khatta, Machha Besara, Machha Chadchadi, Ghugni, Muri Mutton, Rasgulla, and Chakuli Pitha. There are at least 5-6 restaurants with options for all preferences of cuisine. It is a great idea to sample local dishes made from local ingredients. Chung Wah, Honeybee, Bhojohari Manna, Wildgrass, Gajapati, Baron, Bidesh Ghar, Peace are some of the most famous places to relish a variety of dishes. Peace Restaurant is a simple and clean place that is friendly to vegetarians. You can enjoy delicious thalis and local delicacies at this humble yet superb place. Please make sure that you have informed the restaurant owner about your preferences. Many eateries serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is also advisable to pack some snacks for the journey. The various Dhabaas are a great choice for planning your meals with your friends and fellow travellers on the road trip. You can stop over at several good and hygienic restaurants that serve vegetarian food. Plan a visit to Stone Carvers of Odisha en-route Marine Drive. There are amazing temples situated on either side. You can plan a stopover to visit Ramchandi and Beleshore Temple. The temples are surrounded by beaches where you can spot crabs, turtles, and wild bores as well. Sudam Sand Art Museum is an unmissable treat of sand art.

Route

The highways of West Bengal and Odisha are smooth and safe for a road trip. A road trip from Kolkata to Puri will cover a distance of almost 500 kilometres. A road trip from Kolkata to Puri will take around ten to twelve hours depending on the detours undertaken by you. Since it is a journey that takes around 10-12 hours to complete, you can plan it in advance. The route will make you witness the vibrant culture of West Bengal and Odisha. The rural part of eastern India is beautiful and it is exciting to explore the forts, temples, and local food. You will begin at the Megapolis called Kolkata and travel to a historically significant city of Puri which is a distance of about 518 kilometres from Kolkata which can be covered in around 10-12 hours via Bankura - Beliator - Sonamukhi - Khandaghosh - Nischintapur Rd/Kona Expy/Mumbai - Kolkata Hwy/Vidyasagar Setu in Hastings from Raja Ram Mohan Sarani, BB Ganguly Street, Marx Engels Beethi Rd, Indira Gandhi Sarani and Khiddirpore Rd. Use the right lane to take the ramp onto Bankura - Beliator - Sonamukhi - Khandaghosh - Nischintapur Rd/Kona Expy/Mumbai - Kolkata Hwy/Vidyasagar Setu. Follow NH16 and NH316 to Badshahi Rd/Bhubaneswar - Puri Hwy/Cuttack - Puri Bypass Rd/Jagannath Sadak/Puri-Balanga Rd in Odisha. Merge with Bankura - Beliator - Sonamukhi - Khandaghosh - Nischintapur Rd/Kona Expy/Mumbai - Kolkata Hwy/Vidyasagar Setu. Continue on Badshahi Rd/Bhubaneswar - Puri Hwy/Cuttack - Puri Bypass Rd/Jagannath Sadak/Puri-Balanga Rd. Drive to Grand Rd in Puri. Slight left onto Badshahi Rd/Bhubaneswar - Puri Hwy/Cuttack - Puri Bypass Rd/Jagannath Sadak/Puri-Balanga Rd. Turn right to stay on Badshahi Rd/Bhubaneswar - Puri Hwy/Cuttack - Puri Bypass Rd/Jagannath Sadak/Puri-Balanga Rd.

What To Eat And Stopovers

The road trip from Kolkata to Puri will present you with plenty of options. You will get to eat the cuisine of Odisha and Bengal. You can sample the tasty Pakhala, Khichdi, Besara, Amba Khatta, Dahi Baigana, Ou Khatta, Machha Besara, Dalma, Santula, Kanika, Chaatu Rai, Kadali Manja Rai, Machha Chadchadi, Ghugni, Chakuli Pitha, Muri Mutton, and Rasgulla. There are many other tasty options of street food as well as a scrumptious Oriya Thaali. It is safe to eat moderately spicy food to avoid any stomach upsets or heartburn during your road trip. Avoid drinking any alcoholic beverage during your road journey from Kolkata to Puri. You can stop over at several good and hygienic restaurants that serve vegetarian food. There are amazing temples when you approach Puri. You can plan a stopover to visit a few temples. Sudam Sand Art Museum is an unmissable treat of sand art which you can visit if you plan a little detour.

Reaching There And Places To Visit

Puri is an ancient city with great historical significance. Jagannath Temple, Puri Beach, Raghurajpur Artist Village, Konark Beach, Chilika Lake, Swargdwar Beach, Daring Badi, Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary, Puri Light House, Sakshigopal Temple, Alarnatha Temple, Vimala Temple, Balukhand Wildlife Sanctuary, Baliharchandi Beach, Loknath Temple, Balighai Beach, Lakshmi Temple, Sudarshan Craft Museum, and Daya River. Make sure you have all the necessary information about timings and entry fees before visiting the museums and parks. From Kolkata to Puri toll has to be paid at Vidyasagar Setu, Dhulagarh, Debra, Rampura, Laxmannath, Seragarh, Panikholi, Manguli, Pipli and finally after entering Puri City, a Terminal Tax.

Points To Note While Planning Trip (Car/Bike)

The most important thing is to service your car or bike before you embark on the road trip from Mumbai to Pune. Make sure all the basic features are functioning properly. Check the condition of the engine. Check if the safety functions are working properly. Although there are fuel stations (gas stations) on your route, it is advisable to carry fuel with you. In the next section, you can read about the diesel and petrol pumps/station en route.
It is a safe and well built highway. However, make sure you know the gas stations (petrol pumps) on route.
Eat at clean eateries and pack dry snacks and water for the journey.
Learn some local phrases and words to communicate at the gas stations and restaurants.
Carry a first aid kit for minor medical emergencies. Carry anti-vomiting medicines for motion-sickness. Check the weather before starting the journey. Apply a good quality sunscreen to avoid excessive exposure to the sun.
Check the renewal date of your car insurance policy bike insurance policy.

The drive to Gokarna is filled with fun and frolic. Travelling over the weekend to let your hair down to relax is the best way to unwind and release the tension. Plus, small getaways are genuinely helpful to get out of the city and its hustle bustle. Sequestered spots with scenic beauty rejuvenate the soul.

The town of Gokarna located by the Arabian Sea is situated on the southwestern side of Karnataka. This is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus. People come here to gain the blessing of the mighty Shiva. The renowned Mahabaleshwar Temple is home to a shrine dedicated to the deity Lord Shiva. Another temple, the Koti Teertha is known as a temple tank for devotees to step down in the holy waters, and bathe to cleanse their sins and seek a new beginning in life.

Gokarna is a destination with gorgeous virgin beaches. Its mesmerising palm lined Gokarna beach, Om and Kudle beaches are located not too far away from each other. There is also the Half Moon Beach, the Small Hell Beach and a few more exciting places to visit in this small town. The beaches here are known for their idyllic white sand and pristine blue waters.

Best Time To Visit

Gokarna is an excellent destination for a weekend getaway and is at its best during the monsoon season. It usually starts from June right through to August post which the weather becomes hot, dry and sunny. An alternative time to visit Gokarna is between October and March when the weather turns warm and pleasant, and temperatures touch 32 degrees Celsius during the day.

There are a number of water sports in Gokarna that will satisfy the soul of adventure seekers. It is a favourite vacation spot for travellers who travel here looking for a peaceful weekend. It is also a laid back and less commercialised version of Goa.

Route

There are three ways to reach Gokarna from Bangalore. And all three are amazingly scenic roads to drive through.

Route 2 co-joins with Route 1. Route 1 takes approximately 8 hours and 50 minutes to reach Gokarna. The journey is about 479 kilometres from Bangalore and the drive is spectacular. Route 2 takes roughly 9 hours and 26 minutes to Gokarna and the journey is approximately 513 kilometres in distance. Route 3 is also about 9 hours and 35 minutes from Bangalore to Gokarna, and it is 513 kilometres long.

Via NH48 – Bangalore Chitradurga Route

Bangalore – Tumakuru – Hiriyur – Chitradurga – Tilyalli – Sirsi – Gokarna

Via NH48 and NH69 – Bangalore Devpura Route

Bangalore – Tumakuru – Hiriyur – Ajjampur – Shivamogga – Kumta – Gokarna

Via NH69 – Bangalore Shivamogga Route

Bangalore – Kunigal – Arsikere – Kadur – Shivamogga – Hinnavar – Kumta – Gokarna

What To Eat And Stopovers

On the way to Gokarna, some of the eateries and restaurants serve some delicious south Indian food. The spices and flavours are incredible when one begins the meals and lingers on the taste buds until you return again to try them out. That's the secret to the cuisine served in these small but amazingly cool highway restaurants and eateries.

• Lakshmi Bhavan Tiffin Room: This is a must visit eatery in Chitradurga. The restaurant serves Indian, Asian styles cuisine. They have a vegetarian and vegan friendly menu too. This may be a relatively small place but is quite popular among the local residents. The dosas served during breakfast are simply delicious. It is known to be one of the best hotels to try out the masala dosa as well.
• Reddy Military Hotel: Their loyal customers simply rave about this small but well-kept restaurant. Their food is simply superb. In reality, when you reach, the restaurant does not have a military feel to it in any way and gives out more family oriented vibe instead. Their mutton chops, mutton fry, kheema, natti chicken, rice and chapathy are some of their most in-demand and frequently ordered dishes.
• Swathi Delicacy: This restaurant serves Indian, Asian, and also vegetarian dishes across breakfast, lunch, dinner, brunch. This restaurant is located just off the highway. The food here is delicious. Must try dishes on the list are the south Indian idli vada, poori, pulao.
• Vilasi Delight: They serve Indian and Asian food and is so popular with travellers that there is always a queue or you need to reserve a table in advance. One of the best vegetarian eateries on the highway in Tumkur, the food prices are affordable, with superb ambience making it the ideal choice for groups and families.
• Kamat Upachar: This restaurant is popular among travellers. Their menu is Indian heavy but they also offer vegan options along with a special vegetarian menu. They are open for three meals - breakfast, brunch, lunch. Their plantain leaf lunch with jowari roti is a favourite among customers, which comes with delicious side dishes with a variety of South Indian flavours. ­

Reaching There And Places To Visit

Gokarna is filled with temples, beaches, fun in the sun and water sports. If you fancy a lonely walk on these virgin beaches, then this is definitely the place to be. The temples are some of the best destinations that you can choose within the country to pray, meditate, connect with your inner soul or just simply relax. Here are some of the places that you must visit in Gokarna:

• Om Beach: This is a trendy beach for its shape which is like the OM famous sign among Hindus. People also visit here because it is a serene and gorgeous place to relax. Walking in the sand and enjoying the tranquil beaches calm people and refresh the energy.
• Mahabaleshwar Temple, Gokarna: This is in Gokarna, and it is a Hindu temple located in Gokarna, many people travel to this religious pilgrimage centre in Karnataka.
• Half Moon Beach: This beach earns its name for its shape as well. It is difficult to access the Half Moon Beach via the roads, so to reach the beach, one has to hike or use a motorboat from Om beach. Alternatively, take a walk towards Dolphin Cafe at the southern end of Om beach. Later, you can follow the signboard pointing in the direction of the Half-moon beach.
• Kudle Beach Road: Visiting this beach is going to make you fall in love with it instantly. The waves here are softer than most Indian beaches where the waves are aggressive. It is ideal for children to play in the sea. The sand is soft and perfect to build some sandcastles. Kudle beach isn't as exposed as Om beach. Therefore, less crowd ensures a cleaner beach. The beach also has a couple of quaint beachside restaurants where you can grab a bite before jumping into the sea.
• Paradise Beach: This beach is genuinely a paradise being almost entirely cut off from the mainstream. Paradise beach is a treat to one's senses. If in Gokarna, this is not to be missed at any cost. Paradise beach can be accessed by trekkers through the Kudle beach, which is the most used route. You can also hire a bike to ride till Belekan beach through the picturesque Belekan village and catch a glimpse of the local life here. Belekan beach takes one through a short 20 minutes hike to this secluded paradise beach. Stay back and watch the sunset or the sunrise and experience pure joy.
• Maha Ganapathi Temple: Visit the Mahaganpati temple before the Mahabaleshwar temple as the legend goes that one needs to visit here before they go to the revered Shiv temple. The history of this temple is unique, and people are always intrigued to see the idol which is in a standing position and it is black in colour. One can also see the high bump in the idol’s head.

Protein can help you shed those unwanted pounds and keep your belly full. But it's important to eat the right amount and the right kind of protein to get its health benefits. Protein is considered to be the building block of the human body. The body needs protein-rich food to account for the daily wear and tear of muscles, to speed up recovery, and to gain strength.

Seafood:

Seafood is an excellent example of protein-rich food because it's usually low in fat. Fish such as salmon is a little higher in fat, but it is the heart-healthy kind- it has omega-3 fatty acids.

White-Meat Poultry:

Stick to the white meat of poultry for excellent, lean protein. Dark meat is a little higher in fat. The skin is loaded with saturated fat, so remove the skin before eating.

Milk, Cheese, and Yogurt:

Not only are dairy foods like milk, cheese, and yogurt high protein foods, but they also contain valuable calcium, and many are fortified with vitamin D. Choose skim or low-fat dairy to keep bones and teeth strong and help prevent osteoporosis.

Eggs:

Eggs are one of the least expensive forms of protein.

Pork Tenderloin:

This versatile white meat is 31% leaner than it was 20 years ago.

Lean Beef:

Lean beef has about two grams more saturated fat than a skinless chicken breast. Lean beef is also an excellent source of zinc, iron, and vitamin B12.

6 High Protein Vegetarian Foods:

While we know that meat and eggs contain a good amount of protein, there is a common misconception that a vegetarian meal plan comes up short in this regard. That is a myth, however, as vegetarian food can also be protein rich food. Although a lot of vegetarians turn to protein powder as their source of nutrients, here is a list of protein-rich foods for vegetarians to help them meet their daily requirements without any meat.

1. Chickpeas (Channa)

They’re high protein food and fibre, and low in calories. Snack on them boiled, toss them into salads, or puree into a yummy hummus.

2. Kidney beans (Rajma)

Kidney beans are chock-a-block with protein, carbohydrates and fiber. Paired with boiled or steamed rice, Rajma-Chawal is an all time favourite dish in the Indian household. Apart from being delicious, it’s a wholesome meal, which can be enjoyed in the form of a curry, as a topping in salads, in enchiladas or in the form of spicy chili.

3. Milk

Drink milk regularly? If you do, you’re sure to do well on your protein test. Apart from being high protein food, milk is rich in calcium and ensures good bone health, strong teeth, a healthy immune system and glowing skin. Avoid full-fat versions; look for skimmed options that have been fortified with vitamin D, and make the best of the protein in milk.

4. Cottage Cheese (Paneer)

Paneer is to India what cheese is to the rest of the world. High in casein, a slow-digesting dairy protein, paneer also offers you a good amount of calcium, keeps you fuller for longer and helps burn more fat. Reason enough to have more? Add it to vegetable preparation, toss it into sauteed vegetables or eat as it is, and enjoy the benefits of protein in paneer.

4. Lentils (Dal)

Indians can’t do without their dals, be it arhar, urad or moong. A part of almost every meal, lentils are an easy and inexpensive way to up your intake of protein, fiber and essential minerals. Serve with a side of rice or roti for a complete meal.

5. Green Peas (Matar)

Not many vegetables are as rich in protein as this winter staple. You get the protein and fiber from frozen green peas too, so go ahead and stash a bag in your freezer. Make sure you pick up the bag and check how the peas have been frozen – if you can feel them, they’re good to go.

6. Mixed Seeds

Seeds add crunch and quite a bit of protein to your meals. Choose from sesame, sunflower, pumpkin, or poppy seeds – as they’re all high in protein and healthy fats. Apart from salads, you can also add them to raita, cereal, or homemade granola.

So how does protein add to your healthy life? Here are 10 reasons:

Due to its ability to assist the human body with quicker recovery, protein is considered an extremely important nutrient.

For most of us, whenever we think of vitamin C, we immediately picture an orange. That is how synonymous the two are. Sure, orange is loaded with vitamin C, which is an important vitamin to maintain overall good health.

Vitamin C is needed to keep practically our entire body in good condition – right from our teeth, skin, bones, and tissues. Vitamin C is what helps our wounds heal when we get cut and bruised. It is also important for building our body’s natural immunity.

But the point is that experts recommend we consume 90 mg of vitamin C per day and a medium-sized orange has about 69.7 mg of vitamin C. So what are the foods that can provide us with higher vitamin C content than an orange?

In this article, we give you a list of 12 fruits and vegetables that have beaten the orange in terms of their Vitamin C content. To know more simply read on.

1.Mango

Mango is often hailed as the king of fruits and eagerly awaited as the summers begin. Turns out that mango also ranks quite high on the charts when it comes to vitamin C – with a whopping 122 mg per fruit. In fact, raw or green mango is richer in vitamin C than the ripe yellow and red mango.

2.Guava

The humble guava is also high on the list of foods that are rich in vitamin C content. There is as much as 126 mg of vitamin C in just one guava and more than 200 mg per 100 gms. It is one of the most common and inexpensive fruits that you often find being sold in baskets by the roadside in the summer months. Look for the ones that are pink on the inside if you can.

3.Papaya

Papaya is a fruit that usually finds a place on the breakfast table due to its roughage or fibre content thereby aiding in digestive health. But it is also surprisingly high in vitamin C. Even a small size ripe papaya has as much as 95 mg of vitamin C.

4.Strawberries

Who does not wait for juicy red strawberries to hit the market each year? These pretty-looking fruits are not great to eat they also are high in vitamin C content, with about a cup of strawberries giving you 85 mg of vitamin C.

5.Pineapple

Another fruit that packs in more vitamin C than an orange is pineapple. Having pineapple in any form can help boost your daily required amount of vitamin C. One cup of chopped pineapple pieces contains about 79 mg of vitamin C.

6.Kiwifruit

Kiwifruit can also be an option or an addition to oranges if you are looking for vitamin C-rich foods. A single kiwifruit is said to contain as much as 84 mg of vitamin C.

In the midst of so many other more popular or trending natural fruit drinks such as lime juice, orange juice, pomegranate juice, cranberry juice, and so on, the humble and very affordable sugarcane juice that is so commonly available in most parts of the country in make-shift stalls all through the Indian summer, is actually packed with innumerable benefits.

But it is so much more than just a very refreshing local summer drink. From building strong teeth and bones to enhancing your digestion and preventing kidney stones, did you know that there is a whole lot of good that sugarcane juice can do to improve your health and well-being?

Sugarcane is technically a grass that grows in abundance in India. Sugarcane juice is a very rich source of a number of vitamins and minerals that are extremely beneficial for your health in more ways than one.

In today’s article on health and fitness, get to know 5 awesome benefits of sugarcane juice.

Sugarcane juice is great for a glowing youthful complexion

There are some amazing benefits you can get for your skin by regularly having sugarcane juice. From curing acne to delaying the appearance of lines and wrinkles, sugarcane juice is your skin’s best friend.

Sugarcane juice is rich in glycolic acid which has anti-ageing properties to keep your complexion firm and youthful, delaying the appearance of wrinkles. And to avoid skin problems like acne, just mix sugarcane juice with multani mitti or Fuller’s Earth and rub it on your face. It acts as an exfoliating mask to remove impurities and keeps your skin acne-free, giving you a healthy radiant complexion.

Sugarcane juice helps improve your digestion

An important health benefit of sugarcane juice is its ability to soothe the tummy and help in easing the digestive system. If you tend to suffer from bouts of acidity, irritable bowel syndrome, and overall poor digestion, try including sugarcane juice in your diet as a natural remedy.

It is a very good source of potassium which balances the pH levels in your stomach, keeping your tummy happy and healthy. The potassium and high fibre content in sugarcane juice together aid smoother digestion and bowel movement. Sugarcane juice is also naturally alkaline which is beneficial in getting rid of acidity and that accompanying burning sensation that you feel inside.

Sugarcane juice is an instant energy-booster

If you are feeling physically drained out and low on energy due to the heat, just grab a glass of sugarcane juice. It is the best natural drink you can have for a quick pick-up that will give you an instant burst of energy. Thanks to the high content of sucrose (simple sugars) and essential minerals present in sugarcane juice, it is not only effective in refreshing and hydrating you quickly but also helps to replace lost sugars and fluids in your body.

Coconut water is extremely invigorating. It is full of electrolytes and many other vital nutrients. It not only works wonders for you if you are dehydrated but has tremendous health benefits too. This refreshing drink has sugars, minerals, vitamins, amino acids, and phytohormones, apart from inorganic ions which give a boost to the body’s antioxidants. This wonder drink can protect against heart attack and keep hypertension at bay. The meat of the coconut fights inflammation, helping wounds to heal quickly. Many sportspersons swear by the efficacy of coconut water to restore their frayed tissues after a strenuous workout. Most importantly, coconut water is very effective for treating dehydration, particularly in cases of severe diarrhea. So, let us look at the many salutary benefits of coconut water on our health.

• Coconut water improves performance during exercise: Coconut water, or nariyal pani as it is called colloquially, has more electrolytes than even colas. It has hydrating effects which are just like the common carbohydrate-electrolyte sports drinks, or the so-called energy drinks. The effects of nariyal pani during exercise or performance are as good as that of sports drinks, but coconut water doesn’t contain added sugars and sweeteners, and is a natural source of potassium, so, it can be used as a substitute for other sports drinks.
• Consumption of coconut water is also easy on the stomach compared to carbohydrate-electrolyte drinks. Because coconut water has electrolytes, it is very effective in treating muscle cramps, providing almost immediate relief. But, you should first consult your doctor, if you are a sportsperson, and are planning to take nariyal pani after heavy workouts, as coconut water is low in carbs and sodium, two nutrients which are vital for supporting you through long workouts, which can cause excess loss of water through sweat, and therefore a loss of sodium. However, if you are planning to do just light workouts, coconut water is ideal as a post-workout drink. And on a hot summer afternoon after sweating profusely, hardly anything can match the delicious coconut drink.
• Nariyal pani is good for heart health: Studies have decisively shown that drinking coconut water can lower blood cholesterol levels. And, as we all know, it is the bad LDL cholesterol that is the culprit in most heart attacks and strokes. Coconut water maintains the levels of HDL, which is good cholesterol while battling against the increase in LDL, or bad cholesterol. Studies have also shown that the effect of drinking coconut water was similar to the effect of lovastatin, a medication that inhibits the build-up of cholesterol in the arteries. Nariyal pani is also known to reduce hypertension. This is achieved by the antioxidant levels and insulin sensitivity.
• Nariyal pani improves digestive health: The rich fiber content in coconut water can produce laxative effects, besides the fact that it is a natural diuretic. Coconut water is great for treating diarrhea. It has iron, calcium, and magnesium. Manganese has an electrolytic balance which is the same as human blood.  Drinking a glass of coconut water within an hour after a bout of diarrhea can be of immense help. Moreover, coconut water is good for countering sodium-induced bloating. It not only flushes out the sodium from the body but also streamlines the cleansing process. Electrolytes in nariyal pani promote pH balance in the body, which is vital for keeping acid reflux in check.
• Coconut water helps overcome hangovers: Though studies are not conclusive, it is generally accepted that coconut water replenishes the potassium you lose when you consume too much alcohol, thereby helping you overcome the terrible hangovers in the morning after.

Kokum is a tropical summer fruit with a sharp tangy taste. The small round kokum fruit is red in colour when on the tree but the colour changes to deep purple, almost blackish when it is ripe and dried. The kokum tree is indigenous and extensively found along the Western Ghats in India. You will find the dried kokum fruit is often used in various traditional preparations in the cuisines of this region mostly as a souring agent. Chilled kokum juice is consumed as a delicious and cooling summer drink. In fact, all parts of the kokum fruit including its seeds are very rich in nutritional content and have the power to benefit your body in many ways, building your natural immunity.

Did you know that this local summer fruit is power-packed with so much nourishment that it can give you some really great health benefits? Here are 7 health benefits of the kokum fruit that you may be surprised to learn about.

Kokum Is Useful To Ease Acidity And Improve Digestion

For long, it has been known and advised to have kokum for good digestion and to soothe acidity attacks and those burning sensations in the heart and stomach due to indigestion. As per ayurveda, the dried kokum fruit, made into and consumed as kokum juice is a natural remedy to enhance the digestive agni or fire and improve the body’s pachan shakti or digestion.

Kokum Can Elevate Your Mood

The simple kokum fruit has the wonderful health benefit of easing your anxiety, calming your mind, and uplifting your mood when you are feeling low. Consuming kokum helps increase the level of serotonin in your body; the mood-enhancing hormone which is responsible for making you feel positive and cheerful. When serotonin level increases, brain activity is stimulated and that helps to drive away stressful and negative emotions and feelings.

Kokum Is Good For Healing Cuts, Wounds, And Swelling

Studies have shown that kokum has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. This is due to the presence of certain phenolic compounds in the kokum fruit. That is why kokum has several healing applications according to ayurveda. It is said that applying kokum to any allergy sores, swelling, cracks, cuts, and even a burn injury can help to soothe and lessen the inflammation.

Kokum Can Be Helpful For Weight loss

If you are struggling to manage your weight, along with following the recommended workouts and diets, do give kokum a try. The rind of this locally grown fruit is rich in hydroxy citric acid, a compound that can help you lose weight naturally. How you may ask. In many ways actually; it helps burn excess fat through oxidation, induces a feeling of fullness so you don’t feel too hungry and eat less. Plus kokum has zero fat itself and almost no calories at all. That is why it is great for helping you achieve your weight loss goals.

Want to be a more creative person? Start walking more. Steve Jobs would take power walks. Plus, there is enough research done to show that walking can actually play a role in improving one’s creativity by a whopping 60 percent. That is not a bad deal for something so simple, can be done anytime, anywhere, and costs nothing!

In our busy and largely vehicle-dependent lives, there is often a complete lack of exercise or any physical activity. In this scenario, walking is the most humble and doable form of exercise with multiple health benefits, which is why it is widely recommended by doctors and fitness experts. Walking regularly can help you become more physically active and stay fit and healthy in body and mind. In short, it can enable you to lead a better life.

However, walking also happens to be the most underrated and overlooked form of exercise. Today let us take a look at the various reasons, that might motivate you to take it up regularly. All you need to get started is a good pair of trainers and the will to include walking in your fitness routine.

1.Promotes Heart and Cardiorespiratory Fitness:

Among the most important benefits of walking, is its role as a good cardio exercise that gets the heart to pump blood more efficiently to all organs and parts of our body. Walking 10,000 steps per day is what experts suggest. Walking can increase your heart rate to the level where it is beneficial to keep common ailments like high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes in check. It also works to improve your cardiorespiratory fitness.

2.Reduces Stress and Anxiety:

While any form of exercise is a natural anti-depressant and is useful to overcome stress and anxiety, stepping out for a walk is the simplest with noticeable results. It lowers the stress hormone cortisol to improve your mood and energy levels. If you are at work and feeling stressed out over a particularly challenging task try taking a power walk during your lunch break, either with colleagues or solo. It can help calm you down, clear your head and restore your self-esteem so, you can get back to performing at your best. Walking may be classified as a moderate-intensity aerobic exercise but, it still produces sufficient happy hormones such as serotonin and norepinephrine to make you feel good, trigger positive and happy feelings and boost your confidence.

Whether you are a fitness enthusiast or the one who finds excuses to step out for a daily walk, there is no debating the fact that it is necessary to stay physically and mentally active in order to enhance overall fitness and improve your ability to perform daily activities better.

Aerobic exercises are ideal to fit into your busy day as many of them require no special facilities or equipment and can easily be done at home.

Is Aerobic Different From Cardio?

You may have come across the terms aerobic and cardio exercises being used interchangeably. A cardio workout intrinsically means doing aerobic exercises, because you cannot increase your cardio or heart rate without increasing the oxygen intake which is what aerobic refers to. So the exercises and results of both are interlinked; increasing the heart rate and body’s oxygen intake, thereby improving the heart’s ability to pump blood and oxygen flow more efficiently throughout the body.

What Can Aerobic Exercise Do For Your Health

After a session of even moderate intensity aerobics, the body tends to feel lighter, more agile, and the mind more alert, focussed, and energetic.Research has shown that doing some form of regular aerobic activity has many health benefits such as –

• Stronger muscles
• Improved energy level
• Better blood circulation
• Weight loss and fat reduction
• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improved quality of sleep

Aerobic Exercises You Can Do At Home

It is totally possible for you to stay fit and enjoy the health advantage of an aerobic workout without leaving the comfort of your home. Before you begin the main aerobic exercises remember to do at least 5 minutes of warm-up.

Spot Jogging

This is the indoor version of the popular high-intensity outdoor aerobic exercise. Spot jogging is super simple and can be done even during commercial breaks while watching your favourite TV show. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart. Lift your knees as high up towards your chest as you can. Lift your knees as high up towards your chest as you can. Try spot jogging without stopping for a minute. Do one-minute bursts of spot jogging multiple times a day.

Have you been curious to know more about Zumba which has gained a lot of popularity among fitness enthusiasts? And if you want to lose weight fast, you may have been checking out and trying to decide which latest diet plan to follow to get in shape quickly. To shed excess kilos, apart from watching your calorie intake you also need to get moving and be consistent with exercise in order to burn more calories than you consume.

Latin dance-inspired Zumba is a peppy, high-energy aerobic exercise that can be an effective part of your weight loss plan and so much fun too! Today we tell you more about how Zumba can help you dance your way to a leaner, fitter, and more toned you.

How Does It Work?

A Zumba session is usually an hour to an hour and a half of a fitness dance class. It typically begins with a short warm-up session, followed straight by energetic fusion dancing, set to lively dance music such as salsa, hip-hop, and Bollywood numbers.Since Zumba involves vigorous dance moves, it burns calories rapidly and helps in weight loss.

Zumba And Weight Loss

Zumba is a great full-body workout that increases strength and cardiovascular fitness, aids in weight loss, and tones the body along with other benefits. If you are joining a Zumba class for the sole purpose of weight loss, do keep in mind the following points:

• The pace of dancing can vary from medium to high intensity, which will have a bearing on the number of calories you burn after each session.
• Studies show that it is possible to burn around 300 – 900 calories during a 60 minute mid to high-intensity Zumba workout.
• To burn more calories and fat, you may consider going in for a high-intensity interval training Zumba session.
• Apart from the intensity of your session, other factors such as your current physical fitness level, weight, age, and genetics come into play while calculating the number of calories you can burn by doing Zumba.
• You should set a weight loss goal beforehand so that, you can monitor your progress after each session. Preferably consult your gym or fitness instructor for this.
• Take it slow in the beginning with the duration, intensity and frequency of your Zumba dance routine. Allow your body to get used to the pressure and strain of the new fitness workout.

The liver is the natural detoxifier of our body. When the toxins present in the liver get out of control, the organ cannot function to its full capacity. Moreover, the liver cannot produce anti-oxidants that keep cancer at bay, nor can it detoxify fat-soluble hormone disruptors as it should. Neither can your liver break down hormones like estrogen or insulin efficiently.

Detoxification of the body can eliminate these toxins from your body for months at a time.

A diet that supports detoxification consists of plenty of organic, fresh vegetables and fruits and a moderate amount of water. Aerobic exercise is a great detoxifier, as well as a good night's sleep.

Signs For A Detox

Here are a few symptoms that your body needs detoxification:

• Frequent fatigue
• Constipation
• Inability to focus
• Depression
• Lack of sleep
• Headaches
• Weight gain
• Muscle soreness

Listen to your body and prepare yourself for body detox, to cleanse stressful life situations. A detox diet is a great way to take the pressure off your organs, so you can keep them healthy for the future.

How Often Should You Detox?

Our body is capable of self-healing, self-renewing, and self-cleansing. When you create the right conditions, you bring out the vibrant well-being in its natural state.

The importance of detoxification of your body is that,it serves to promote the intake of foods and drinks that are either useful in flushing out toxins or are the building blocks of the body cells. It is, therefore, suggested to detox at least four times a year to get rid of the toxins in our body.

Taking time to cleanse the body and nurture the vital organs, goes a long way in the prevention of health conditions, and also has immediate effects, including higher clearer skin, better digestion, mental clarity, and so much more.

For centuries, turmeric has been an indispensable part of kitchens across India. Turmeric is not only a cooking staple, but it also has tremendous medicinal value. Turmeric has many benefits – it can be used as an antiseptic while cleaning wounds or as a condiment with milk to develop immunity against infections. No wonder, Turmeric is rightly called the ‘Golden Spice.’

If you are interested in knowing more about this spice, here’s a lowdown on the various turmeric benefits and uses

Relieves Pain and Inflammation

Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. The spice belongs to the ginger family, and due to its properties, turmeric is known as an effective cure for inflammation commonly experienced by arthritis patients.

The Arthritis Foundation even suggests that if a person suffering from inflammation takes about 400 to 600 milligrams of turmeric up to three times a day, their pain will alleviate considerably.

Heals Wounds

We have experienced situations where our mothers and grandmothers would apply turmeric on our injuries. They even followed it up with a glass of turmeric milk. This is because turmeric has antiseptic properties that are known to cure both internal and external wounds. The antiseptic turmeric benefits also help in stopping the blood from oozing out of the injury and any further infections.

Improves Liver Function

Turmeric has excellent antioxidant properties, which enable it to flush out toxins from our bodies. Many people suffer liver damage or disorders because of too many toxins that accumulate in the organ and the bloodstream. Some individuals suffer toxin build-up in their bodies due to the medication they undergo for health issues such as diabetes and renal complications. The daily consumption of turmeric in small quantities can help your body get rid of such toxins.

A simple mantra for everyday health and vitality is to start your day with some amount of moderate exercise. Exercising in the morning helps you shake off that post slumber lethargic feeling, releases happy hormones to make you feel good, and keeps you active all day.

No matter how busy your mornings are, we really recommend that you take out time to do a few exercises. It will help you get moving, stay fit, and be physically and mentally ready to take on the day.

1. Lunge Forward Exercise

Lunges are a simple exercise, where you begin by standing straight, then bend with your right leg and push the left leg straight back, without bending the knee and mount your toes. The right leg in front should be bent to make a square such that the knee is in line with your ankle. Stretch completely pushing your left buttock forward in line with the other. You can keep your hands on your hips or better still raise them straight above your head, once you balance yourself. Change quickly. Aim for reps of 10 on each leg and gradually increase to 15. You should consider doing lunges every morning, as this exercise works brilliantly to release morning body stiffness, and strengthen your hamstrings, quadriceps, and gluteus muscles.

2. Spot Jog While the Tea Brews Exercise

Spot jogging is a good cardio exercise that can easily fit into everyone’s morning routine. Cardio exercises improve cardiovascular fitness that works to increase your lung capacity and make your heart strong to pump oxygen-rich blood effectively. This keeps you fit and energetic to keep you going all day. Try doing reps of 30 spot jogs in a minute and raise your knees as high up as you can, to get the maximum benefit out of this exercise.

3. A Brisk Walk or Run Exercise

There is nothing better than being able to step out in the early morning for a brisk walk or run. An early morning walk, jog or run is a basic and most doable exercise, that has been widely and often recommended by experts, because of its great benefits for an active mind and body. Make sure you wear the right footwear, to cushion your feet and keep challenging yourself, by setting higher goals for the time and length of your walk or run.