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Have you ever stumbled upon a magnificent ruin and wondered about its story? Or are you simply just looking for one? Odiham Castle, almost hidden away in the English countryside near Hook, is one such place. Otherwise known as "King John's Castle," its distinctive octagonal keep hints at a time of power struggles and architectural innovation. But Odiham's story goes far beyond a single king. This captivating castle was once a bustling symbol of royal authority. Kings resided within its walls, and its strategic location made it a key point along the route between Winchester and Windsor. Yet, Odiham has also witnessed the darker side of history. It served as a prison and endured a siege during a rebellion. As centuries passed, the castle transitioned from a formidable fortress to a hunting lodge, and ultimately, a picturesque ruin. Intrigued by Odiham's journey? In this blog post, we'll delve into the castle's fascinating history. We'll explore its construction under King John, its role in medieval conflicts, and the reasons behind its decline. Join us as we unlock the secrets of Odiham Castle and discover a captivating chapter in England's history. Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here for more information. Want to visit Stonehenge while you are in England? Get a tour direct from London with Klook ● Uncover the secrets of Stonehenge and learn about its fascinating history and purpose. ● Customize your experience by adding visits to other famous sites like Windsor Castle, Bath, Oxford, or Lacock. ● Choose from various tour options: ticket-only, guided coach tours, small group tours, or private tours. Our Odiham Castle highlights If ever there was a castle 'off the beaten path', then it is this one! Tucked away in the countryside just off of the Basingstoke Canal, this is a castle that despite its dilapidated state, is a real gem that caught our attention the moment we read about it. After watching a compelling documentary on the 300 year Plantagenet Dynasty, it seemed rather fitting that we would visit a major project of perhaps one of its most infamous Kings. The walk up to the castle is really nice, although you would never know it was there but for the small brown signs pointing you in the right direction! It is a lovely walk along the narrow canal pathway, its entrance a rather unassuming gap in the trees and foliage that line the path. Not much is left of the Odiham now, with all of its outbuildings, walls and gardens now lost to history. All that remains is its octagonal keep, which is still pretty impressive, despite most of it too being lost to time. Honestly there is not much to see here, and it is rightfully free to browse. There has been a recent conservation effort, along with some informative signs being placed, so despite its limitations there is still enough to help you picture what once was. That is almost the best part about Odiham; the imagination it encourages. It is incredible just how thick the walls are, walls which once withstood a French invasion force with just 13 English soldiers. Despite its relatively small square footage, it is incredible how attractive this castle was to successive monarchs and earls alike, providing sanctuary, refuge and even imprisonment capabilities. For all of King John's faults, he certainly picked a good spot and design for this place. Perhaps his most endearing legacy? The story of this castle is undoubtedly more than simply just what you will see when you get here. That is what makes it just as magical as other more well preserved royal residences. There is definitely a special atmosphere here, and we hope it continues to be protected for future generations. Read the stories and let your imagination run wild... this is a castle that should never be forgotten! RETURN TO CONTENTS Save for later: One of THE finest in all of England, the historic Arundel Castle This magnificent castle emanates beauty both inside and out! A true English gem boasting almost a thousand years of history. Will you visit? The history of King John's Castle Odiham Castle, nicknamed "King John's Castle," boasts a rich history that reflects the power struggles and changing fortunes of medieval England. Here's a comprehensive look at its journey: ⪢ Royal Beginnings (1207 - 1216) King John, facing discontent within his realm, commissioned Odiham Castle's construction in 1207. The strategic location between Winchester and Windsor offered a convenient stopping point and a symbol of royal authority. The castle stood out with its octagonal keep, a rare feature in England at the time. Flint, a readily available local stone, formed the core structure, while dressed stone likely adorned the exterior, hinting at its grandeur. John himself frequently resided at Odiham, making it a royal residence. However, the castle also served a darker purpose. King Henry V's brother, the Duke of Clarence, was imprisoned here, reflecting the castle's dual role as a residence and a jail. ⪢ A Site of Conflict (1216 - 1400) During the First Barons' War (1215 - 17), tensions between King John and rebellious barons escalated. In 1215 the English Barons persuaded King Philip of France (with the promise of the English throne to his son Louis) to pressure John into creating fairer land and taxation laws. Under duress, King John rode from Odiham to Runnymede and put his seal to the Magna Carta, but the Barons saw little change of heart from John, and called on Louis and his French army to invade England. In 1216, the French prince, Louis VIII, besieged Odiham in support of the barons. Despite a small garrison of just 13 soldiers, the castle held out for two weeks before surrendering with full honors, demonstrating its defensive strength. Ultimately the Barons' plans with the French were thwarted, and Henry III became King of England and owner of Odiham after King John's death in 1216. King Henry III commissioned repairs to Odiham Castle shortly after his coronation. In 1236 Henry gave Odiham to his young widowed sister, Eleanor of Pembrokeshire. Eleanor was soon re-married to the French noble, Simon de Montfort. He was invested as 6th Earl of Leicester and together they transformed the castle into their residence. Simon was popular, and his political and religious views caused several confrontations with Henry. In 1265 Simon and his eldest son left Odiham for the last time, to lead the second baronial rebellion against a Plantagenet monarch. Simon met his death during the Battle of Evesham, fighting an army led by the future King Edward I. Eleanor was exiled to France, never to return to England. Odiham remained under the control of the Plantagenet dynasty, serving as a reminder of their dominance in the region, for a further 200 years. As the 14th century progressed, Odiham Castle's primary function started to shift. While it likely remained a fortified structure, its use as a royal residence began to decline. ⪢ Transformation and Decline (1400 - 1700) By the 15th century, Odiham Castle had transitioned primarily into a hunting lodge. Kings and nobles likely used it as a base for hunting expeditions in the surrounding area. The castle's decline began around the 16th century. With the development of more advanced weaponry, fortifications like Odiham became less strategically important. By 1605, records describe Odiham Castle as a ruin. The reasons for its total neglect are not entirely clear, but a combination of factors likely played a role. The rise of more modern residences, the decline in its military significance, and the cost of maintenance probably all contributed to its abandonment. ⪢ Rediscovering the Past (18th Century - Present) The construction of the Basingstoke Canal in the late 18th century carved through part of the castle grounds, further altering the landscape. Archaeological excavations conducted in the mid-20th century unearthed valuable artifacts and provided insights into the castle's layout and daily life within its walls. Today, Odiham Castle stands as a picturesque ruin, a testament to a bygone era. It offers visitors a glimpse into medieval architecture, military strategy, and the changing fortunes of English royalty. Odiham Castle's story is one of power, conflict, and ultimately, neglect. Despite its current state, it remains a significant historical site, offering a tangible connection to England's rich past. RETURN TO CONTENTS Who was King John? King John, also known as John Lackland (because he wasn't expected to inherit significant lands), ruled England from 1199 to 1216. John Plantagenet was the youngest of Henry II's five legitimate sons. He was a complex and controversial figure, known for both his failures and a pivotal event in English history. John's reign was marked by military struggles. He lost most of England's French territories, including Normandy, to King Philip II of France. This significantly weakened the Angevin Empire (possessions held by the House of Plantagenet during the 12th and 13th centuries). However, John's reign also saw the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215. This landmark document, forced upon him by rebelling barons, limited the king's power and established certain legal rights. It's considered a cornerstone of English liberty and a precursor to modern constitutions. Was King John a Taxman or a Tyrant? His reputation is certainly tarnished by accusations of high taxes and ruthless behavior. This discontent among the barons fueled the rebellion that led to the Magna Carta. While the historical accuracy is debated, King John is often depicted as an antagonist in Robin Hood stories. This portrayal reflects the negative perception of his reign. Regardless of how he was perceived, and all of the struggles of his reign, King John had a significant impact on English history. While he suffered military defeats, the Magna Carta signed under his duress remains a lasting legacy. And honestly, could we really imagine a history without the awesome story of Robin Hood?! RETURN TO CONTENTS What is the Magna Carta? The Magna Carta, meaning "Great Charter" in Latin, is a landmark document signed by King John of England on June 15, 1215, at Runnymede, a meadow near Windsor. King John's reign was marked by high taxes, unpopular wars, and a disregard for feudal customs. This discontent led a group of powerful barons to rebel against him. The Magna Carta was essentially a peace treaty, forced upon John by the barons, to limit his power and address their grievances. ⪢ Limiting Royal Power For the first time, a document explicitly stated that the king was not above the law. The Magna Carta outlined restrictions on the king's ability to levy taxes, imprison people, and seize property without legal justification. ⪢ Foundation for Legal Rights While some of its specific clauses are no longer relevant, the Magna Carta established the principle that everyone, even the king, is subject to the law. This concept became a cornerstone of English legal tradition and influenced the development of constitutions and legal systems around the world, including the United States. ⪢ A Symbol of Liberty The Magna Carta has become a powerful symbol of individual rights and limitations on governmental power. Although its initial focus was on protecting the privileges of the nobility, it paved the way for later advancements in human rights. ⪢ A Complex Legacy It's important to note that the Magna Carta wasn't a perfect document. It primarily addressed the concerns of wealthy landowners and didn't offer protections for the vast majority of the population. Additionally, King John never truly accepted its limitations, and the document went through several revisions in the following years. Despite its limitations, the Magna Carta's influence on legal systems and its symbolic representation of standing up to tyranny make it a document of enduring historical significance. RETURN TO CONTENTS 10 interesting facts about Odiham Castle 1. Unique Keep: Odiham Castle boasts the only octagonal keep (central tower) in all of Britain. This unusual design sets it apart from other castles and hints at its innovative construction. 2. Royal Residence: Kings weren't strangers to Odiham. King John, for whom the castle is nicknamed, frequently resided there. It also served as a prison for King Henry V's brother, the Duke of Clarence. 3. 'Flintastic' Construction: The castle's thick walls are a marvel of engineering. Built almost entirely of flint, a readily available local stone, they provided formidable defense. 4. Dressed for Success: While the core structure was flint, the castle wasn't all about rough and tumble. Evidence suggests the exterior was once clad in dressed stone, giving it a more polished look. 5. Moated & Magnificent: An additional layer of defense originally surrounded the keep – a moat and ditch. This watery obstacle discouraged unwelcome visitors and made storming the castle even more challenging. 6. A Haven for Outbuildings: Odiham wasn't just a central keep. Archaeological finds hint at an array of outer buildings that likely housed everything from kitchens to stables, making it a bustling mini-settlement. 7. Plantagenet Power: The castle's construction is attributed to the Plantagenet dynasty, a powerful line of English monarchs who ruled for over 300 years. Odiham served as a symbol of their authority in the region. 8. A Long and Eventful History: Odiham Castle's story stretches back centuries. Its construction began in the 12th century, and it remained in use for hundreds of years, witnessing various historical events. 9. Partial Picture: Today, only the octagonal keep remains of the once-extensive castle complex. Time and neglect have taken their toll, but the remaining structure offers a glimpse into its former glory. 10. Transformation Through Time: Odiham Castle transitioned from a formidable fortress to a ruin over the centuries. Despite its current state, it serves as an important reminder of medieval England's architecture and history. RETURN TO CONTENTS Odiham Castle opening times & ticket prices ⪢ Opening times Odiham Castle is open to the public 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. ⪢ Ticket prices There is no entry fee for Odiham Castle or the surrounding grounds. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to get to Odiham Castle While Odiham Castle doesn't have direct access by public transport, getting there is fairly straightforward. Here are your options: ⪢ By Bus The Stagecoach route 13 bus runs between Hook and Odiham. The closest stop to the castle is Castle Bridge Cottages, a pleasant 5-minute ride from Hook station. From the bus stop, you'll need to follow the Basingstoke Canal towpath for about a mile (1.6 km) to reach the castle. Buses run every two hours, Monday to Saturday, so be sure to check the timetable before you go. ⪢ By Taxi Taxis are readily available at Hook Station. A taxi ride to Odiham Castle should take around 4 minutes and cost approximately £8 - £10. ⪢ By car There is no on-site parking at Odiham Castle. The closest car park is Colt Hill car park, which is a 1.5-mile walk down the towpath from the castle. The walk from the bus stop or car park is along a flat towpath, but it may not be suitable for those with mobility restrictions. ⪢ Walking / Cycling The Basingstoke Canal towpath offers a scenic 2-mile (3.2 km) walk or cycle from Hook to Odiham Castle. This is a great option for a leisurely visit, especially on a nice day. Address: North Warnborough, Hook RG29 1HQ Open 24 hours, 7 days per week RETURN TO CONTENTS Don't miss: Portchester Castle History, Photos, Facts and Visitor Information Uncover 2000 years of history at Portchester Castle. Check out our photo highlights, fun facts, its incredible history, ticket info and more Our Odiham Castle experience rating King John had many faults and made many mistakes, but the construction of this castle was not one of them. What is left of it might only be big enough to fit in one picture, but the tales and history of this place are extensive enough to fill out more than just this small blog! While much of the castle has been lost to history, it is a place of 'what once was', and is also one of significant English historical importance. If you are castle and history buffs like us, it is most certainly a spot worthy as part of a castle tour, just for that alone. There is nothing else to do here though, aside from enjoying the canal stroll, so be prepared for a quick visit! RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our Blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram, you can join our broadcast channel for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog, and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your FREE interactive map of England Check out all of the places we visited in England courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! RETURN TO CONTENTS Explore England with special offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of England. Whether you're looking for Stonehenge, a tour of London, or some castle trips Klook has it all. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of England. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your GUIDE to visiting England First time in England? Check out our comprehensive guide with all you need to know including our latest posts, must-see places, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, connectivity, visa information, useful links and much more!

Bodmin Jail, perched on the windswept edge of Bodmin Moor in Cornwall, is more than just a tourist attraction. Its granite walls hold a chilling history, echoing with the stories of prisoners past. Built in 1779, it was once a progressive model, a stark contrast to the earlier, brutal dungeons. Yet, within its seemingly enlightened design, a darkness unfolded. Public hangings drew crowds, a grim spectacle that stained the very stones and memories of this place. Echoes of Suffering: A Spine-Tingling Exploration of Bodmin Jail As whispers of executions and harsh punishments intertwine with reports of unexplained activity, Bodmin Jail beckons. Is it simply a monument to a bygone era, or does a more sinister presence linger within? This prison, abandoned for almost a century, has been restored to tell a story, one of harrowing conditions, torture, executions and even that of the infamous Beast of Bodmin that stalks the Cornish moors. Join us as we delve into the chilling history and unsettling legends that shroud this captivating landmark. Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here for more information. Our Bodmin Jail Tour When we had initially seen information about Bodmin Jail online, we only saw the pictures of one of the former wings of the prison, in a decrepit state with no floors or even a roof. We did not delve into it too deeply; it immediately looked like a place we would want to check out. Historical places are always attractive to us, and after our first foray into urbex style exploring in Tskaltubo, Georgia, we have always had an attraction to it. So honestly we were pretty surprised when we rocked up to the jail to see it had not only been renovated into a museum, but that the jail wing we saw, both in fact, have been transformed into a hotel! So the urbex idea was obviously out of the window. That being said, this was still a very old former jail, and we were excited to check out what we could. So we went on through the huge foreboding entrance, to see what we could find. The part of this old Victorian prison that is not a hotel is now a museum / tour of sorts. There is only one ticket option, which is to go through a non-guided tour, learning some of the most prominent stories from the prison's history. You are navigated through a series of old prison rooms where there are numerous shows, some with full 4D effects, which we though would be tacky but are actually pretty good. The final show is the courtroom, which after sentencing, then leads you to a restored prison block. The shows were very informative, as we learned about several prisoners of which tied in to the very cells they were housed in. Whilst the prison block was not at all what we were expecting, it was dark, gloomy and very well restored. Every cell had information accompanying them, some about the prisoners we had learned about, others giving information about prison hygiene and medical care. The story of Bodmin Jail is hugely present throughout, from some of its darker history surrounding poor conditions and overcrowding, to its revolutionary renovation that incorporated a prison standard that had not been seen in its time. This included segregation of women and men, better ventilation for cells, cleaning standards and a gradual improvement in rehabilitation attempts for prisoners, including work and study. We were very impressed with how well it was put together, and considering the tour was not accompanied, it was very easy to navigate through each area. There was no time limit per-se and plenty of opportunity to check out each cell and room, read the signs ad ultimately get a real feel for the place. Even though we were in a decent-sized group it still felt very chilly, haunting and sombre. One of the more disturbing areas was the 'torture' room, where there were a number of devices that prison officers would force prisoners to use as a form of punishment for bad behaviour. One such device was 'The Crank', a piece of machinery designed for no other purpose other than to exhaust and punish. The Crank consisted of a large handle with a counter. The crank handle was Hand Crank attached to a set of cogs, which pushed a paddle through sand or gravel. The Warders could tighten up the crank, making it harder to turn, which is where they got the nickname "screws" The prisoners would have to turn the handle up to 15,000 times a day, without any end product of their hard work In 1818, an English civil engineer named Sir William Cubitt devised a machine called the treadmill to reform idle and stubborn convicts. As if the Crank was not enough of course. Prisoners would step on the 24 spokes of a large paddle wheel, climbing like a modern day gym machine. The earliest Bodmin machine had a capacity for 26 prisoners, it was a feared punishment and many prisoners were injured In gruelling 8 hour shifts, prisoners would climb the equivalent of 2,400 meters in one day, in a 6 day week they would climb 14,500 meters, Mount Everest is 8,848 meters high just for perspective! This is perhaps where the 'dark tourism' effect starts to come in here. It is a fine balance indeed; it all seems so morbid and must have been horrendous for the people that suffered here. Should we be exposed to it? Or should it be left in the past where it belongs? It is hard to answer, and while we felt very conflicted we wanted to learn more. Indeed there is much more to come after the shows and the jail block; after this section we then moved on to the Prison Warden and Governor quarters, a secret room full of artifacts that was accidentally discovered, and then on to the haunted section of the jail. Not to mention the gallows right at the end, Yes that is right, the public execution area. More on all of that to come! Bodmin Jail is just full of twists and turns. Some of the stories were pretty heartbreaking, especially given some of the horrendously harsh sentences given out to people in those times. For example, some of the crimes amongst the condemned at Bodmin Jail were sheep stealing (yes you read that right), stealing a purse, forgery and burglary. Is it any wonder the prison is said to be haunted? We know times were different back then. But it makes it no easier to understand if we are honest. Make no mistake, this was a cruel and harsh place. And one we will not forget in a hurry. Read on for the history of Bodmin Jail, find out about the Beast of Bodmin legend, discover some interesting facts, and get all the information you need before you go including ticket prices, opening times and more. RETURN TO CONTENTS Save for later: Uncover Arundel Cathedral: A Magical Piece of British History A magical majestic masterpiece overlooking the ancient town of Arundel, this cathedral is one of England's finest and well worth a visit! The history of Bodmin Jail Bodmin Jail boasts a rich and complex history. Here's a glimpse into its transformation from a symbol of punishment to a popular tourist attraction: ⪢ A Progressive Beginning (1779) Built in 1779 under the reign of King George III, Bodmin Jail marked a significant shift in prison design. Influenced by the ideals of prison reformer John Howard, it was one of the first prisons to feature individual cells and segregated areas for men and women. This move away from the harsh communal conditions of earlier institutions aimed to provide a more humane environment. Military engineer Sir John Call designed the prison, and its construction used a staggering 20,000 tonnes of local granite quarried from Bodmin Moor. Interestingly, the prisoners of war themselves became the workforce for this project. ⪢ A Century of Change (1800s) Bodmin Jail initially housed a mix of debtors and criminals. However, by the 1840s, a national crime wave led to overcrowding within the prison walls. Extensions were built to accommodate the influx of prisoners. In 1850, the limitations of the original structure became clear, and it was deemed unfit for purpose. A new, larger 220-cell prison was constructed on the same site to address these concerns. Another innovative development came in 1859 with the introduction of a unique ventilation system. This involved a network of ducts that channeled stale air from cells to a massive chimney, ensuring better air quality for the inmates. A dark chapter also unfolded within the prison walls during this period however. Public hangings took place for crimes ranging from murder to burglary, with records suggesting over 55 executions occurred, with the last one carried out in a chilling ceremony in 1909. An interesting twist in Bodmin's tale came in 1877 when one wing of the prison was designated to house a specific population – naval prisoners. This marked the establishment of H.M Naval Prison Bodmin. ⪢ Shifting Tides and Closure (1900s) The early 20th century witnessed a significant decline in the prison population at Bodmin Jail. The female wing closed its doors in 1911, with inmates transferred to another facility. During World War I, the jail took on an unexpected role. In an effort to safeguard important national documents, including the Domesday Book, they were housed within the prison walls for safekeeping. The last civilian prisoner left Bodmin Jail in 1923, and the Naval Prison ceased operations shortly thereafter in 1922. With a dwindling population and changing needs, Bodmin Jail officially closed its doors in 1927, marking the end of an era. ⪢ From Prison to Tourist Attraction & Hotel (1900s - Present) Deserted in 1927 and slated for destruction, demolition crews attempted to reduce the prison to rubble for its valuable stone. However, the formidable one-meter-thick granite walls proved too tough for the explosives of the era. The roof, however, met a different fate, succumbing to the process. Since then, the jail has remained a picturesque ruin, slowly surrendering to the elements. Ivy snakes gracefully across its exterior, while bats and pigeons have claimed the exposed spaces as their own. Nearly a century exposed to the harsh elements had ravaged the two wings, leaving only a skeletal frame of walls. Scars from the failed demolition attempt remained etched on the granite. To add insult to injury, builders of a nearby housing estate, located on a lightly higher plain adjacent to the prison, devised a 'creative' solution for their waste. They simply dumped the construction debris over the edge, burying the north wing's walls up to the third floor. The imposing structure, however, retained a certain allure. In an unusual turn of events, the 1960s saw the jail experience a brief revival as a nightclub and casino, although this project did not last and closed down not long after opening. Fast-forward to just prior to the Covid pandemic in 2018, and a Russian entrepreneur was out for a walk, saw the building, fell in love with it, and bought it. An incredible project aimed at preserving and showcasing its past began. Despite huge challenges, from bats to nesting pigeons, Covid and hugely difficult building adjustments, Mallino Developments bravely tackled the task and today, Bodmin Jail is the popular tourist attraction we are writing about. The renovations of the hotel wings are also now complete and have been transformed into an incredible hotel, which you can read about later in this post. A huge credit must go to the owners, who have carefully brought this piece of Cornish history back to life in a positive way for future generations. The stories and tales should never be forgotten; a stark reminder of a dark past. You can read more about the incredible beginnings and challenges of this ambitious project here. RETURN TO CONTENTS The Beast of Bodmin Bodmin Jail boasts a rich history, but the surrounding Bodmin Moor holds another mystery – the Beast of Bodmin Moor. This legendary creature is said to roam the wild landscape, striking fear (and perhaps a little excitement) into the hearts of visitors. The Beast is often described as a large black cat, resembling a panther, puma, or even a leopard. Sightings began in the 1980s, and reports of livestock attacks, particularly on sheep, have fueled the legend. The size of the creature seems to vary in different accounts, ranging from the size of a dog to much larger. Some descriptions mention glowing eyes and eerie sounds like growls, hisses, or even screams. Despite the numerous sightings, there's no concrete evidence to confirm the Beast's existence. No clear photographs or physical remains have been found. Theories abound, with some suggesting escaped big cats from zoos or private collections might be responsible. Others believe it could be a surviving wildcat species thought to be extinct in Britain. There's even a fringe theory that the Beast is a paranormal entity, but this lacks scientific backing. The high number of sightings prompted an official government investigation in 1995. While the report concluded there was no verifiable evidence of a large cat, it couldn't definitively rule it out either. The mystery surrounding the Beast of Bodmin Moor continues to draw tourists and cryptozoology enthusiasts. It adds a layer of intrigue to Bodmin Moor, making it a more captivating place to visit! RETURN TO CONTENTS One of the UK's most haunted places Whether Bodmin Jail is haunted is a matter of personal belief. The jail's history and imposing structure certainly contribute to its reputation as a paranormal hotspot, not to mention some very interesting videos online, and of course the hype from the tour itself. The jail even featured in the UK show Most Haunted, although some of the findings on the show were later debunked. So what is it about Bodmin Jail? Let's take a look... ⪢ A Dark History Bodmin Jail witnessed countless tragedies over its operational years. Executions, harsh living conditions, and the suffering of prisoners all leave a mark, sometimes leading to the belief that these restless spirits linger within the walls. ⪢ Unexplained Activity Visitors and staff have reported strange occurrences like unexplained footsteps, disembodied voices, sudden temperature drops, and even apparitions. Certain areas of the jail are associated with specific hauntings. The figure of a priest is said to appear in the chapel area, while the spirit of a young boy might be felt in the former hospital wing. These add a layer of detail to the paranormal claims. ⪢ The Skeptical View It's important to acknowledge alternative explanations for these experiences. Drafty corridors, creaking floorboards, and suggestive lighting can create illusions or feelings of unease. Additionally, the power of suggestion, especially when visiting a place known for its haunted reputation, can influence what people perceive. ⪢ Our Verdict? Ultimately, the question of whether Bodmin Jail is haunted is up to you to decide. The jail itself leans into its spooky reputation, offering ghost tours and events for those seeking a paranormal thrill. If you're open to the possibility, a visit might leave you with a chilling encounter for sure. We both felt a presence here in certain spots, especially in the gallows. But even if you're a skeptic, the historical significance and unique atmosphere of Bodmin Jail make it a fascinating place to visit. RETURN TO CONTENTS 10 interesting facts about Bodmin Jail 1. Progressive Beginnings: Built in 1779, Bodmin Jail was one of the first prisons to feature individual cells and segregated areas for men and women, reflecting a shift towards a more humane approach to punishment. 2. Wartime Safehouse: During World War I, Bodmin Jail served an unexpected purpose – safeguarding important national treasures like the Domesday Book, highlighting its secure nature. 3. Public Spectacle: Over 55 executions took place within the prison walls, with the last one carried out in 1909. These public hangings drew large crowds, a grim reminder of past practices. 4. Naval Imprisonment: Interestingly, one wing of the prison housed naval prisoners from 1877, establishing H.M Naval Prison Bodmin as part of the larger facility. 5. Explosive Resistance: When the jail closed in 1927, attempts were made to demolish it for its granite. However, the incredibly thick walls (one meter!) proved too strong for the explosives of the day. 6. Rooftop Ruin: While the demolition crews couldn't bring down the walls, they did succeed in removing the roof. Exposed to the elements for nearly a century, the jail became a picturesque ruin, slowly being reclaimed by nature. 7. Unintended Backfill: The construction of a nearby housing estate in the 20th century resulted in an unusual consequence. Builders seeking a quick waste disposal solution simply dumped debris over the edge, burying parts of the north wing's walls. 8. Nightclub Experiment: In a surprising turn of events, the 1960s saw Bodmin Jail experience a brief revival as a nightclub and casino, offering a stark contrast to its former purpose. 9. Ghostly Reputation: With its dark history and imposing structure, Bodmin Jail has gained a reputation for paranormal activity. It is said to be one of the most haunted buildings in Britain. Today, visitors can even embark on chilling ghost tours for a spooky experience. 10. Living History: Preserved and transformed into a popular tourist attraction, Bodmin Jail offers visitors a chance to explore the prison cells, learn about the lives of prisoners and staff, and step back in time to experience a unique chapter in Cornish history. RETURN TO CONTENTS What is Dark Tourism? Dark tourism, also sometimes referred to as thanatourism, black tourism, or grief tourism, is a travel trend that involves visiting places associated with death, tragedy, and suffering. It's not about enjoying the macabre, but rather about understanding and learning from dark chapters in human history. Dark tourism sites can be battlefields, concentration camps, genocide memorials, graveyards, prisons, or even sites of natural disasters. People are drawn to dark tourism for various reasons. Some seek to learn about history first-hand, confront the darker aspects of humanity, or pay respects to those who have suffered. While visiting places of death and disaster has been around for centuries (think of attending gladiator games in the Roman Colosseum), dark tourism as a defined concept is a relatively recent phenomenon, gaining traction in the late 20th century. Places like Auschwitz in Poland, Chernobyl in Ukraine, Hiroshima in Japan and the Catacombs of Paris (France) are all considered dark tourism sites. As is Bodmin Jail too. Dark tourism can be a sensitive topic. Critics argue that it can be disrespectful to victims and insensitive to survivors. It's important to be respectful when visiting such sites and to learn about the history involved. We believe that these sites are an important way to educate our current generations about the mistakes of the past, but some may argue that they become more about social media sharing than about honouring the dead or education for the most part. What do you think? RETURN TO CONTENTS Bodmin Jail opening times & ticket prices ⪢ Opening times Bodmin Jail is open from 9.30am to 4pm, 7 days per week. ⪢ Ticket prices There are a number of different ticket options for Bodmin Jail: ** Prices are correct at time of writing (April 2024). Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information. RETURN TO CONTENTS The Bodmin Jail Hotel Bodmin Jail isn't just a historical site these days; it's also home to a unique hotel experience too! We did not stay here, but having checked it out, maybe we will give it a try in the future. Here is a breakdown of what to expect: ⪢ A Luxurious Transformation The hotel, known as The Bodmin Jail Hotel, occupies the very space where prisoners once resided. However, the original cells have been meticulously transformed into luxurious bedrooms. Each room is thoughtfully designed, incorporating elements of the historic structure like original doors and barred windows. Yet, they boast modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, sumptuous bedding, and en-suite bathrooms, some featuring underfloor heating for ultimate comfort. ⪢ Blending History with Hospitality The hotel takes pride in seamlessly blending the historic charm of the jail with modern hospitality standards. Guests can truly feel like they're stepping back in time while enjoying all the comforts of a luxurious stay. ⪢ Room Options The hotel offers a variety of room options to suit different needs. You can choose from: ● Double Rooms with one double bed. ● Twin Rooms with two single beds. ● Family Rooms with a double bed and a sofa bed, perfect for families or groups. ● Accessible Rooms with double beds, specifically designed for guests with disabilities. ● Some rooms are even dog-friendly, so you don't have to leave your furry companion behind. ⪢ Beyond the Room The hotel offers more than just a place to sleep. Guests can enjoy: ● The Chapel Restaurant: Serving delicious contemporary Cornish cuisine with a nod to history, this restaurant provides a delightful dining experience. ● A Bar: Perfect for relaxing with a drink after exploring the jail or the surrounding area. ● Fitness Center: For those who want to stay active during their stay. ⪢ A Unique Experience Staying at The Bodmin Jail Hotel offers a truly unique experience. You can combine a relaxing getaway with a fascinating exploration of history. It's a perfect choice for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone seeking an unconventional and memorable stay. If you are interested in a stay at Bodmin Jail Hotel, you can book through the official website. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to get to Bodmin Jail Bodmin Jail is situated in Bodmin, Cornwall, England, specifically on the edge of Bodmin Moor. There are a couple of ways to get to Bodmin Jail depending on where you're coming from: ⪢ By Train The nearest train station is Bodmin Parkway, which is located about four miles outside of Bodmin Town. From there, you can take a taxi or catch a bus to the jail. ⪢ By Bus The local bus route won't take you directly to the jail, but it will drop you off in Bodmin Town, which is an easy 10-minute walk away. Buses are more frequent during peak season, so be sure to check timetables with First Group before your visit. ⪢ By Bike The jail is situated along the popular Camel Trail cycle route which runs from Padstow, through Wadebridge, to Bodmin Town centre. The jail is at the end of the trail, but note that there are limited bike storage facilities / racks available. ⪢ By Car Bodmin Jail is accessible by car (see postcode below), but parking is limited within and just outside the jail. You are however able to park in the Sainsbury's car park, free for up to 2.5 hours, just a 5 minute walk away. Address: Berrycoombe Rd, Bodmin PL31 2NR. Sat Nav: Use PL31 2PL Phone: 0120876292 Email: info@bodminjail.org Website: bodminjail.org Hotel Website: bodminjailhotel.com Instagram: @bodminjail | Facebook: @bodminjail RETURN TO CONTENTS Don't miss: Exploring Whitby Abbey & Dracula's Birthplace via the Pickering Steam Train Our day trip exploring the North Yorkshire Moors – A ride on the Pickering Steam Train to Whitby & Whitby Abbey, England’s Coastal Gem! Our Bodmin Jail experience rating Prior to our going to the jail we were expecting it to be more of a museum or historical type of experience, which for the most part, it was. The 4D interactive experience part of the tour at the beginning was still worth the experience if that's what you are going there for, but we do think that there should be a second option at half the price where you can simply visit the museum section. The staff member said we could indeed bypass the 4D part, but we'd have to pay the same price. That would be our only slight critique, aside from that, it was a spooky-yet-informative experience that we would highly recommend. In keeping the stories of its prisoners alive, showcasing the conditions and punishments, Bodmin Jail does a fantastic job of reminding us where we have come from. It is harrowing in most cases to say the least, but a stark reminder of how much progress we have made as a society. A really good tour well-put together and definitely worth the trip. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our Blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram, you can join our broadcast channel for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog, and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your FREE interactive map of England Check out all of the places we visited in England courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! RETURN TO CONTENTS Explore England with special offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of England. Whether you're looking for Stonehenge, a tour of London, or some castle trips Klook has it all. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of England. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your GUIDE to visiting England First time in England? Check out our comprehensive guide with all you need to know including our latest posts, must-see places, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, connectivity, visa information, useful links and much more!

When we arrived in Georgia in October we honestly had no idea we were soon to be celebrating both Christmas and New Year twice! It was super fun and we have nothing but fond memories and smiles for the wonderful 5 months we lived here. We made amazing friends, had some epic experiences alongside lovely locals and sumptuous food. Our time here in Georgia will always remain one of our very top countries for travel! So on this New Years Eve at time of writing, Jan 13th, lets see why these occasions synonymous with December 25th and January 1st are celebrated differently in Georgia. We also have some interesting calendar facts, plus our YouTube video of the manic firework extravaganza that takes over the sea port city of Batumi! Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here for more information. When does Georgia celebrate its new year? Georgia celebrates Christmas on January 7th, in keeping with the Julian calendar used by the Orthodox Church. This calendar is used for religious holidays holidays, although the New Year is celebrated on the 14th of January at the same ratio it is for the Gregorian calendar. It was fantastic for us and is indeed for the whole country, a double holiday! The Julian calendar was established by Julius Caesar in 46BC during the life of Jesus Christ and that of the early church. It became a global standard for five centuries! The Gregorian calendar was proposed by Latin Pope Gregory of Rome in 1582 and was eventually adopted by almost every country in the world. The change came as the Julian calendar did not correctly reflect the actual time it takes the Earth to circle once around the Sun, known as a tropical year. In the Julian calendar, a leap day was added every four years which was too frequent, unlike the Gregorian calendar which adds one quarter every year. Hence the huge year difference! Don't miss: 5 reasons why you should head to Batumi, Georgia this summer Five HUGE reasons why you need to plan your summer vacation in the up-and-coming beautiful black sea coastal city of Batumi, Georgia! RETURN TO CONTENTS An absolute BLAST on New Years Eve in Batumi on YouTube In this post, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on what was a truly amazing 5 months in this wonderful country of Georgia. We made so many connections there that we are so so grateful for! We were part of an awesome local expat community in Batumi, we made life long friendships, went on an epic cross country road trip and enjoyed stunning views and brilliant nights out. Our good friend we met in Mexico even came to see us and went on our road trip too! Georgia we thank you and wish you a very happy new year! Check out the video below for some pretty manic celebrations as we saw in the new year 2021 with our friends in Batumi! Also feel free to check out our interesting facts about calendars just after and read about how the world changed, to literally save time! If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures please do like and subscribe! Your support truly is invaluable to us and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! RETURN TO CONTENTS Interesting facts about Calendars around the world Here are a few facts we found on our research that we thought we should share with you! ⪢ The Orthodox Churches of Ukraine, Russia, Serbia and Montenegro, N.Macedonia and the Jerusalem Patriarchate also all still use the Julian calendar to calculate the days for Christmas and Easter. ⪢ The calendar was officially changed in 1752 when the new legal year was moved from March 25th to January 1st. ⪢ It was necessary to drop 11 days for the transition and the month of September was chosen on the year of the change. ⪢ To date there is a 13 day difference between the Julian and Gregorian calendars. ⪢ Just five countries have not adopted the Gregorian calendar; Afghanistan (Solar Hijri calendar), Iran (Solar Hijri calendar), Ethiopia (the Ethiopian calendar), Thailand (Buddhist Calendar), and Nepal (Nepal Sambat). ⪢ In Ethiopia, there is actually a thirteenth month. The thirteenth month, placed between February and March, is called Vern, due to its proximity to the vernal equinox and the beginning of spring. ⪢ The Hindu calendar, Vikram Samvat, is generally 57 years ahead of Gregorian Calendar, except during January to April, when it is ahead by 56 years. ⪢ Thailand uses the Buddhist calendar, in which the epochal date (year zero) is the year in which the Buddha attained parinibbāna. This places the current year 543 years ahead of the Gregorian calendar. The year 2023 CE (common era) is 2566 BE (Buddhist era) in Thailand. ⪢ The Buddhist calendar is also commonly used in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, India, Sri Lanka. If you have any interesting facts about calendars that you think we could add here, feel free to let us know in the comments! RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram, you can join our broadcast channel for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog, and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your FREE interactive map of Georgia Check out all of the places we visited in Georgia courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! RETURN TO CONTENTS Explore Georgia with special offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Georgia. Whether you're looking for a wine tasting tour, a private tour of the the mountain villages, or even airport transfers and sim cards, Klook has got you covered. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Georgia. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience. RETURN TO CONTENTS Your GUIDE to visiting Georgia First time in Georgia? Check out our comprehensive guide with all you need to know including our latest posts, must-see places, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, internet availability and much more!

This sea side resort-style city really left an impression on us with its infusion of Georgian, Soviet, Turkish and European styles. It is packed full of places of interest including several monuments, towers, fountains, a Ferris wheel and truly fantastic boardwalk. This list is by no means exhaustive and is activity based; we will not even mention the plethora of great bars and restaurants we enjoyed here! Batumi is a great spot for budget travel as much of what there is to see is free! It is also perfect for a leisurely vacation or indeed for adventurers and fast travellers who are just passing through. It has a little something for everyone but this list is our pick of the bunch - will you visit them all? Feel free to save this post as your Batumi itinerary / travel guide! Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here for more information. 1. Alphabetic Tower The $65 million Alphabetic Tower is a 130 meter high monument symbolizing the unique Georgian alphabet and its people. 33 letters adorn the tower in the from of a double helix, promoting a language that dates back as far as the 5th century. There is also a rotating observation deck and restaurant within the dome at the top affording a 360 degree view of the city and the Black Sea. You will be charged to take the elevator to the top and there is no additional cha (unless you want to buy food or drinks). COST: 20 GEL / $7 USD / £6 GBP OPENING TIMES: 10am - 12pm, 7 days per week LOCATION: Tap here for directions RETURN TO CONTENTS 2. Ali & Nino Monument Created by artist Tamara Kvesitadze, the Ali and Nino Monument is a moving piece that represents the story of love between a Christian princess and Muslim boy who were forced to separate during the Bolshevik Revolution. The statues rotate on a 10 minute loop, with both eventually coming together seamlessly as one. Its inspiration came from a famous 1937 novel by Azerbaijani author Kurban Said and it is one of the most prominent attractions in the city. COST: Free OPENING TIMES: Anytime LOCATION: Tap here for directions RETURN TO CONTENTS 3. European Square & The Medea Monument Also known as Era Square, this is a beautiful and attractive plaza featuring some of Batumi's most historic buildings, a fountain, many restaurants and its star attraction, The Medea Monument. The square is in the centre of the city and is a hub of activity on most days, with live music and various fairs / carnivals featured throughout the year. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere of Batumi with plenty of outdoor dining and café areas. We found some of the best places to eat in Batumi were at European Square! The monument represents the Greek princess Medea holding the Golden Fleece. She is known for falling deeply in love with the explorer and adventurer Jason of the Argonauts and was said to have the power and gift of prophecy. It was unveiled in 2007 by the President of Georgia at the time, Mikheil Saakashvili. COST: Free OPENING TIMES: Anytime LOCATION: Tap here for directions RETURN TO CONTENTS 4. Batumi Piazza This stunning Italian renaissance style public square bears the hallmarks of places like Venice with its amazing bell laden clock tower and incredible main central floor mosaic. With various restaurant options too it is a fantastic place to enjoy the spirit of Batumi's European vibes and is generally quieter than European Square. It is located in old town, around 4-5 blocks from the Black Sea. There are also several boutique hotels here too and it is considered one of the city's most ornate areas. The figurative mosaic itself is the largest of its kind in Europe and was painstakingly put together from over 88million cut marble pieces. Yes, 88 MILLION! It was created in 2010 by designer Natali (Natalia) de Pita Amirejibi and you can find out more information about what it depicts here. COST: Free OPENING TIMES: Anytime, restaurants close approx. 10pm LOCATION: Tap here for directions Read more: 5 reasons why you should head to Batumi, Georgia this summer Five HUGE reasons why you need to plan your summer vacation in the up-and-coming beautiful black sea coastal city of Batumi, Georgia! 5. Astronomical Clock There is a special plaque located opposite the Astronomical Clock which explains its purpose and operation. The Roman numeral clock shows not only real time but also astronomical positions of the sun, moon, planets and zodiac constellation. It also records sunrises and sunsets, the age of the moon, and the actual motion of the moon around the earth. It was commissioned in Germany to the sum of 1.7million GEL and the building it is installed on is the restored former National Bank of Georgia. COST: Free OPENING TIMES: Anytime LOCATION: Tap here for directions RETURN TO CONTENTS 6. Fountain of Neptune & Theatre Square You will find the Fountain of Neptune in front of Batumi Drama Theater in Theatre Square. It was erected in 2010 and is a copy of the Fountain of Neptune in the Piazza del Nettuno in Bologna, Italy. This square hosts an excellent view of the variety of architectural styles Batumi offers, with the marble statue a prominent feature amongst the backdrop of the Roman style Drama Theatre, fantastic modern gold wheel of the Ferris Tower, the old palm tree lined shop parade to the left and Soviet era tower blocks to the right. The fountain is not always on, but we did manage to catch it once or twice during our stay. COST: Free OPENING TIMES: Anytime LOCATION: Tap here for directions RETURN TO CONTENTS 7. Chacha Clock Tower & Dancing Fountains The Chacha Tower is located on the seafront promenade near to the main port of Batumi and Miracle Park in old town. It was originally built over 100 years ago and was restored by the government in 2012 after falling into disrepair. On its opening actual Chacha flowed from its four fountains. Chacha is a pomace brandy and a traditional (and very potent) Georgian alcoholic drink. It is now non-functioning with its taps said to have been turned off since 2015. It is a replica of an Ottoman era building and has been heavily vandalised, perhaps seen as a symbol of Turkish oppression in the city. One of our particular highlights are the Dancing Fountains, of which there are 2. These beautiful fountains operate from 7pm to 2am and are water displays that are illuminated at night by colorful bulbs and lasers accompanied by wonderfully sweet and epic music. They are a great place to chill and another must see attraction in the city! The video shows the larger of the two, which are separated by a 20-25 minute walk along the boulevard. COST: Free (both) OPENING TIMES: Chacha Tower Anytime / Dancing Fountains from 9pm to 2am daily LOCATION: Tap here for the Chacha Tower / Tap here for the Dancing Fountains RETURN TO CONTENTS 8. Batumi Ferris Wheel & The Octopus Cafe Perfectly positioned with great views of the Black Sea and the city skyline, this Ferris Wheel is well worth a visit, especially for the price. It is hard not to include this as a must see attraction given how prominent it is on the promenade! The Soviet era 'Octopus' was built in 1975 and is a fascinating feature sitting just off of the main boardwalk at the centre of the brilliant Batumi Boulevard. It was originally a café although it has been closed for several years. Its colorful mosaics make it an interesting place to visit and no doubt it will continue to attract visitors due to its vibrant design. COST: Ferris Wheel 3 GEL / $1 USD / 80p GBP. Café is not open and free to visit OPENING TIMES: Ferris Wheel 9am to 10pm 7 days / Café anytime LOCATION: Tap here for the Ferris Wheel / Tap here for the Octopus Café RETURN TO CONTENTS 9. Batumi Sea Port & Boardwalk The Batumi Boardwalk Boulevard is the pride of the city and stretches for 7km along the black sea coast. Its development stretches back to 1881 and it boasts a vast array of highlights including the aforementioned Ali and Nino Statue, the Batumi Lighthouse and the Batumi Colonnades. The active seaport at the start of the Boardwalk is a hub of activity at times and we were lucky enough to witness a docked warship while we were here! The boulevard is neatly separated for pedestrians and bikers and is very popular with fitness enthusiasts out for their morning runs. It is also home to many beautiful themed gardens and grand monuments. If that doesn't tempt you, then head out after 6pm and watch as it captures an epic sunset! It runs the full length of the coast although be advised that it is a stone beach. COST: Free OPENING TIMES: Anytime LOCATION: Tap here for directions RETURN TO CONTENTS 10. Monument of Ilia Chavchavadze Known as the 'Father of Georgia', no trip to Batumi would be complete without a visit to this grand dedication statue overlooking the Georgian coast. It is located near Batumi Theatre and Miracle Park. This is Prince Ilia Chavchavadze, a Georgian public figure, journalist, writer and poet who lead the revival of the Georgian national movement in the second half of the 19th century. He played a major role in the creation of Georgian civil society during time of Russian rule and led the contemporary youth intellectual movement named “tergdaleulebi”, who spread modern and European liberal ideals. He even founded 2 newspapers and played an important role in the first financial structure - Land Bank of Tbilisi. Other famous achievements include helping to spread literacy to maintain the Georgian language. COST: Free OPENING TIMES: Anytime LOCATION: Tap here for directions Save for later: Discover Tskaltubo, an urbex playground of abandoned hotels & grand sanatoriums We explore this crumbling yet alluring collection of dilapidated spa resorts and bathhouses in our first ever urbex adventure in Georgia. RETURN TO CONTENTS Watch our first impressions of Batumi on YouTube Take a look at our first impressions of Batumi for an extensive look at our 5 months of living in Batumi and other cities from our road trip across Georgia! If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures please do like and subscribe! Your support truly is invaluable to us and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram, you can join our broadcast channel for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog, and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your FREE interactive map of Georgia Check out all of the places we visited in Georgia courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! RETURN TO CONTENTS Explore Georgia with special offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Georgia. Whether you're looking for a wine tasting tour, a private tour of the the mountain villages, or even airport transfers and sim cards, Klook has got you covered. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Georgia. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience. RETURN TO CONTENTS Your GUIDE to visiting Georgia First time in Georgia? Check out our comprehensive guide with all you need to know including our latest posts, must-see places, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, internet availability and much more!

With its local vibes yet bright and modern architecture, fine wine and traditional cuisine, beautiful sunset views and public spaces, awesome bars and a lively expat community, Batumi is an affordable and memorable place to visit for travellers and families alike! We spent 5 months living in this vibrant European-esque city, the capital of the autonomous region of Adjara in the country of Georgia. We know many people have not even heard of Georgia the country, let alone Batumi. So we just had to put together 5 BIG reasons why Batumi is one of those cities that you simply MUST put on your travel list! Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here for more information. Batumi, the GEM of Georgia Batumi is a Black Sea resort city and is the capital of the Georgian autonomous republic of Adjara. It has its own airport and is certainly up-and-coming with striking new buildings cropping up all over the city. Mixing modern architecture with its European 19th century cobbled street old town Batumi certainly offers a truly unique experience! It also has a plethora of hotels, bars, casinos and restaurants and an amazing expat community for world travellers. Perhaps one of its most famous features is the wonderful Batumi Boulevard, a 7km long waterfront promenade of beautiful parks, fountains and monuments. But more on that later! RETURN TO CONTENTS 1. Food & Cuisine If there is one thing for sure about Batumi, it is that you will not run out of food options. There is everything from traditional local restaurants to fast food, and what's more, with the Bolt and Wolt food apps you can order for home delivery from anywhere in the city. There are many blog posts about traditional Georgian food, of which we certainly indulged! So rather than tell you about Khinkali, Khachapuri, Churchkhela or Mtsvadi (which are all excellent of course), we wanted to share with you our top thirteen places to eat. We were in Batumi for 5 months and tried many options; these are just a few restaurants that we have picked out that you simply MUST try while you are there : ⪢ Free (as long as you play) Casino Iveria ⪢ Affordable Posh Nosh Aromi Italiani Plov Lagman Batumi Ukraine Restaurant Batumi ⪢ Mid Range Heart of Batumi Mary's Irish Bar Erti Kava Tokyo House Cha Cha Time ⪢ Higher Range Radio Kitchen & Bar Black Sea Restaurant Batumi RETURN TO CONTENTS 2. Modern Architecture & European Flair If you like sightseeing and good photo, Batumi has opportunities in abundance! We absolutely loved the city for this very reason, and were completely enamoured and honestly quite surprised by what it had to offer! Batumi owes its name to the ancient Greeks and there is evidence of settlement as far back as the 7th century BC. It has been occupied by the Romans, Ottomans and Russians and has a deep sense of history running through it. We were enchanted by the mix of modern buildings and monuments, built amongst the throngs of old Russian residential buildings, palm trees and the quaint narrow cobbled streets of Batumi's old town. Batumi is a pretty large city yet somehow seems really easy to walk around and many of the key buildings and monuments you may want to visit are all easy to get to. Here are just a few that we highly recommend you check out : Alphabetic Tower - a 130 meter high monument symbolizing the unique Georgian alphabet. There is also an observation deck and restaurant at the top. Ali & Nino Monument - a story of love between a couple which had to separate during the Bolshevik Revolution. Europe Square - a beautiful plaza featuring restaurants and The Medea Monument. Piazza Square - stunning Italian style public square with restaurants, mosaics and an amazing clock tower. Astronomical Clock - famous heritage building. Fountain of Neptune - an epic example of magnificent Georgian architecture located in front of the Batumi Drama Theatre. Cha Cha Tower / Fountain - now non functioning, this is a stark reminder of the Soviet era. Batumi Tower Ferris Wheel - a unique tower building with a built in Ferris wheel. Batumi Sea Port - for stunning black sea views. Monument of Ilia Chavchavadze - known as the 'Father of Georgia', no trip to Batumi would be complete without a visit to this grand dedication statue overlooking the Georgian coast. It is located near Batumi Theatre and Miracle Park. Save for later: 10 Awesome places to check out in Batumi, Georgia Ten best things to see in Batumi including the Alphabetic Tower, Ali & Nino, Europe Square, Astronomical Clock and the Fountain of Neptune. RETURN TO CONTENTS 3. Boardwalk & Sunsets The Batumi Boardwalk Boulevard is the pride of the city and stretches for 7km along the black sea coast. Its development stretches back to 1881 and it boasts a vast array of highlights including the aforementioned Ali and Nino Statue, the Batumi Lighthouse and the famous 'Octopus' café. The boulevard is neatly separated for pedestrians and bikers and is very popular with fitness enthusiasts out for their morning runs. It is also home to many beautiful themed gardens and grand monuments. If that doesn't tempt you, then head out after 6pm and watch as it captures an epic sunset - more on that later! One of the particular highlights are the Dancing Fountains, of which there are 2. These beautiful fountains operate from 9pm to 2am and are water displays that are illuminated at night by colorful bulbs and lasers accompanied by wonderfully sweet and epic music. They are a great place to chill and another must see attraction in the city! One of perhaps Batumi's most charming features is its ability to capture a magnificent sunset... almost every day. Even if it is cloudy, there is a strong chance that come 6pm the sun will dip below the clouds and drench the East of the city with a warm orange glow. RETURN TO CONTENTS 4. Affordability & Ease of Transport A key factor for any city is being able to get around easily. We were really impressed with the ease at which we could do this in Batumi. The taxis are efficient and convenient - within a couple of taps of the excellent Bolt app you can have a driver waiting in front of you within minutes. It is super affordable too with most journeys costing less than $3. To put that in context, a 20 minute ride from one side of the city to the other was less than $5 USD. There are two main taxi apps you can use, Yandex Taxi and Bolt. Both are very good, but we preferred to use Bolt. It offers 4 car options for every ride - standard, eco-friendly, luxury and XL. Plus Bolt also have a food app (Bolt Food), where you can order anything from take out to toothpaste! If you would prefer to get around in the great outdoors, it is also worth noting that Batumi offers an excellent scooter service. While we did not try them, it looked really fun to take one on a trip along the boardwalk on a sunny day. They are offered by Georgian start up company Scroll and are available to rent via the Bird App. You will find them scattered all over the city and on average they cost around $4 for a 15 minute ride. RETURN TO CONTENTS 5. Accommodation Batumi offers many different types of accommodation across the city. Whether you are looking for a high rise with a view of the black sea or a cute apartment in Old Town, there will be no shortage of options. We found that all of the places we stayed in were great and affordable. We arrived in Georgia in November and stayed for 5 months in total. It is worth noting that we did stay in the 'off' season, but for a rough idea we paid between $400 - $550 USD per month for the places you see in the photos. Prices do spike significantly from May onwards for the summer months. All of our hosts were excellent and we had no issues during our stay. We were really happy that we could find places with balconies and washing machines too; two essential things for long term stays! While we chose to stay in Airbnb's you will also find a plethora of hotels in the city. There truly is an option for everyone! Must see: Discover Tskaltubo, an urbex playground of abandoned hotels & grand sanatoriums We explore this crumbling yet alluring collection of dilapidated spa resorts and bathhouses in our first ever urbex adventure in Georgia RETURN TO CONTENTS Our Batumi experience rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Honestly Batumi was not even close to being on our radar when we set off on our travels originally. When we thought of Asia we were thinking Bali, Thailand, Vietnam, and cities like Hong Kong and Tokyo. No offense to Georgia but we simply had not even heard of it. We were in Mexico when Covid was really starting to bite, and countries around the world were closing their borders. With our 6 month stay up, we had to leave, and after stopping in Türkiye for 3 months, Georgia was one of the very few countries that were still allowing people in. Not to mention the incredible 12 month visa-free stay option for foreigners! So off we went, and it genuinely turned out to be one of our best-ever travel choices. Batumi is such an incredible city that is constantly changing and evolving. It has grown at a phenomenal pace in recent years, with its expansion showing no signs of slowing down. It really does have a bit of everything, is super affordable, and is a place where you can make friends and memories to last a lifetime. We do hope this post has helped convince you to head over to this slice of city paradise! We miss it terribly, and we know we will be back at some point! Maybe we will see you there... RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram, you can join our broadcast channel for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog, and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your FREE interactive map of Georgia Check out all of the places we visited in Georgia courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! RETURN TO CONTENTS Explore Georgia with special offers from Klook Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Georgia. Whether you're looking for a wine tasting tour, a private tour of the the mountain villages, or even airport transfers and sim cards, Klook has got you covered. In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Georgia. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience. RETURN TO CONTENTS Your GUIDE to visiting Georgia First time in Georgia? Check out our comprehensive guide with all you need to know including our latest posts, must-see places, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, internet availability and much more!

Kashmir Although summer is the best time to visit Kashmir, every season has its own charm and specialities. Be it winter or spring, Kashmir has something to offer to adrenaline junkies for an adventurous trip. You can see flowers blooming in summer with light drizzle while in winter the whole place is covered with a thick layer of snow. Kashmir welcomes tourists the whole year offering outdoor activities like skiing in freezing cold to trekking in mild temperatures. The best time may depend on your preferences like the places you want to visit, activities you wish to try. If you are planning your Kashmir trip then you can take the help of these well-designed Kashmir tour packages suitable for everyone. Here, we have provided information relating to every season of the year so that you can pack your bags without any second thoughts and take off for Kashmir. ⪢ Spring (March to May) Spring in Kashmir is short-lived but it shows the most beautiful faces of nature. Weather is not freezing as the temperature rises. It ranges between 10 - 15°C (50 - 59 Fahrenheit) but may drop down at night making it colder. Days are tolerable though. You will see vibrant wildflowers in lushy meadows with greenery everywhere. Kashmir offers varieties of activities to do in spring like trekking, sightseeing, bird-watching, photography etc. you can visit Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Badaamwari during this time of the year. Gulmarg also called as ‘meadows of flowers’ is a prime tourist spot from march to may. The biggest festival of Kashmir, Tulip festival, is celebrated in spring showcasing varieties of Tulips. You can also visit Tulip Garden. Roads start to get cleared and declared open by March end or April start. ⪢ Summer (June to September) Summer is considered as the ideal time to travel to Kashmir. Weather conditions are the prime reason for this. Temperature fluctuates between 20 - 30°C (68 - 86 Fahrenheit) with lesser degrees at night. All the places are open and accessible and you can visit Pahalgam, Gurez Valley, Yusmarg, Sonmarg, Gulmarg etc. The tour in the summer season is famous for undertaking treks. Some of the popular summer treks of Kashmir are Tarsar Marsar trek, the great Kashmir lakes trek, Naranag Gangabal trek etc. The atmosphere is not freezing and trails are clear and easy to navigate. Some other adventurous activities available are swimming, river rafting, fishing, paragliding etc. Frozen lakes have almost melted by June. All the highways, internal roads are cleared out by BRO and you can visit off-beat places that are secluded from the rest of India. Rainfall is infrequent in India unlike the other states of Kashmir. Hotels and other accommodations are fully packed during the peak season and you can book Kashmir tour packages in advance if you are visiting Kashmir in summer. ⪢ Autumn (September to October) Kashmir turns into a golden paradise during “Harud”, that is, Kashmiri autumn. Leaves turn yellow and start to fall. It is that time in Kashmir when many crops are ready to be harvested such as apples, walnuts etc. Some must-visit places in Kashmir in October and November are Naseem Bagh. Chashma Shahi, Nishant Bagh etc. The atmosphere again starts to get cold after the summer and it can go as low as 0°C (32 Fahrenheit) in the early mornings. Autumn is every photographer’s delight and it is the perfect time to click stunning pictures. All the outdoor activities like trekking, sightseeing are still available. RETURN TO CONTENTS Ladakh Summer is the ideal time to plan a trip to Ladakh. However, it does possess uniqueness during the whole year. Temperature is low all the time in Ladakh but it is tolerable during summer, spring and autumn. You can visit lakes, monasteries, valleys in Ladakh while attending different kinds of festivals celebrated there. They have a fixed time for it. Valleys are magnificent there with flowers everywhere. Trees stand tall and high enhancing the beauty of the place. It is very important to choose a good travel agent to plan your Ladakh trip, we strongly recommend you to check this tour operator in Kashmir and Ladakh with high reviews on Google. ⪢ Spring (March to April) After being stagnant in winter, tourism in Ladakh restarts with full enthusiasm in the spring season lasting from March to April. The mercury level varies from 10 - 15°C (50 - 59 Fahrenheit). Nights are colder while days are warm. Snow starts to melt, clearing the roads. You can opt for Kashmir-Leh Highway to visit Ladakh if you are on a bike trip. Manali-Leh Highway is closed in March - April. You can visit monasteries like Hemis monastery, Thiksey monastery, Pangong lake etc. Lakes have melted hence are open for tourists to visit. Inner Line Permit (ILP) is needed for some of them though like Pangong Lake and Tso Moriri Lake etc. Hotels and other stays are not very congested hence, you can get good deals, saving some bucks. ⪢ Summer (June to September) Arguably, the best time for a trip to Ladakh, summer showcases the beauty of the place to its core. The ideal weather for everything makes Ladakh fully packed from June to September. Temperature is higher, fluctuating between 15 - 25°C (59 - 77 Fahrenheit). Skies are clear and sunny with a balmy climate. Roads and highways are fully open with very little snow to be seen around. You see gorgeous views all around with crystal clear peaks in the backdrop. One of the highlights of a trip to Ladakh in summer is the ‘Hemis Festival’ celebrated in June. It is held at Hemis Monastery to honour Padmasambhava. Lamas gather around and Cham Dance is performed during the ceremony. Lastly, you can visit Ladakh in summer without thinking twice. You will experience the best of it, doing every outdoor activity available and navigating to top attractions there. ⪢ Autumn (September to October) The whole place turns into hues in autumn, leaves falling all around. It looks very dreamy with colder days than summer. It is still pleasant in Ladakh with mercury level at around 15°C (59 Fahrenheit). September - October is a good time for a Ladakh trip. You can witness light snowfall in high-altitude passes by the end of autumn. It does not snow heavily. You can rent a bicycle to ride around a bit to witness the dramatic change of colours in the valleys of Ladakh. Try to plan all the adventures in the September - October month of autumn, as most of them start to close by November as winter is about to onset. Some of the outdoor activities are not available too in the end. You will have limited service there. Take a trip in autumn to enjoy all of Ladakh. The Gustor festival is celebrated in Thiksey Monastery every year in October. Cham dance is performed by Lamas in the monastery. A trade fair is held too where the barter system is organised. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our Blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram, you can join our broadcast channel for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog, and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your FREE interactive map of India Check out all of the places we visited in India courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your GUIDE to visiting India First time in India? Check out our comprehensive guide with all you need to know including our latest posts, must-see places, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, connectivity, visa information, useful links and much more!

EVERY DAY for 64 years, flags are lowered at the Attari-Wagah border for the famous Beating Retreat Ceremony. It is a rare moment of co-operation between the two countries, who have been arch-rivals for some time. We have put together the history, timings, entry fee and important things to know before you go. We were really excited for this, and it did not disappoint! We have now joined the tens of thousands who attend this event daily and we are very proud of that! When we first arrived we did not really know what to expect, and honestly even now we still do not entirely understand everything that was going on, but it certainly makes for an amazing memory. Thank you for stopping by, and a warm welcome to our India series here on Jenn & Leon Travel Blog. We had always wanted to visit this country, officially the 7th oldest in the world, and not only was the time finally upon us, but it came with our good friends and fellow Youtuber's Jackson and Marjo. If you missed our earlier posts and would like to catch up, head over to our dedicated INDIA page or look out for the links in this blog. Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here for more information. Visit the Wagah Beating Retreat Border Ceremony with Klook ● Visit the Saragarhi Memorial Gurudwara and learn about the Battle of Saragarhi. ● Experience the beating retreat at Wagah Border, famous for the ceremonial closing of gates. ● Have dinner at a local restaurant to sample some local cuisine. ● Let Klook take care of the arrangements, so you don't have to! What is the Wagah Border Ceremony? The Wagah Border Ceremony, also known as the Beating Retreat Ceremony, is a daily event held at the India-Pakistan border near Amritsar, Punjab. It's a vibrant and energetic display of patriotism, discipline, and cultural pride, attracting thousands of spectators from around the world. The ceremony itself is a synchronized and symbolic lowering of the national flags of India and Pakistan, accompanied by a series of coordinated drills by the Border Security Force (BSF) of India and the Pakistan Rangers. The ceremony is known for its high-energy marches, elaborate footwork, and intense expressions, creating a spectacle that is both awe-inspiring and emotionally charged. The Wagah Border Ceremony, which began in 1959, can be seen as a symbolic expression of the ongoing tensions and the need for disciplined communication between the two nations. Despite the history of conflicts, the ceremony serves as a platform where both sides can engage in a display of military prowess and national pride while maintaining a strict protocol. While the ceremony has its roots in the need for closing the border gate, it has evolved into a cultural and patriotic spectacle that attracts spectators from both sides. The intense drill performances reflect the deep-rooted history and, in a way, the theatrical nature of the event serves as a reminder of the shared heritage of India and Pakistan, despite their political differences. Read on for our highlights, why there are tensions between the two countries, how to get there, opening times and ticket information. RETURN TO CONTENTS Our Wagah Border Ceremony highlights The atmosphere here is supercharged from the moment you enter the border complex. There are people everywhere, announcements, music and all sorts of other things going on. Of course being such a popular attraction there are a host of souvenir and food vendors too. We had arranged our trip with our hotel (the Pribson Hotel, check it out here), and our driver waited for us in the car park. We would highly advise this as we can imagine finding a taxi or Grab straight after would have been super difficult. Bear in mind that the souvenir sellers are fully on to this, and will be waiting the moment you get out of the car! That being said, we all certainly could not resist getting into the spirit and donning some patriotic gear and make up. We opted for some face (and arm paint), caps and a flag. Just outside the car park is a price list on a board, which is cleverly obscured when you are still inside. Sadly our vendor did try to charge us more, by over 150 rupees, but we did not bite having already done our research on what we should have been paying (well done Jenn). Honestly it is not the amount, it is the principal! We had to leave our bags in the car, as anything larger than a small purse is prohibited. You will see long crowds as you enter the main security check area; this is the men and women only queues for Indians. Foreigners have their own entryway, as you can see in the photos below. It is right over to the far left and is marked on the wall, and the line up is far far smaller. It seemed a little chaotic, but we actually breezed through and it was very efficient. Probably only took us around 5 minutes. Once through security, you will pass a few more refreshment stalls, before hitting the main road that will lead up to the stadium. We did not know this at the time but this is one of the oldest roads in all of Asia, and was the main connection between the two regions, going back far beyond the border formed by the partition of India under British rule. Another point of note is that this would also have been one of the main routes of pilgrimage for Hindus traveling between the Golden Temple (Amritsar), and Kartarpur. This is a town once in India, now in Pakistan. It is said to have been founded by the first guru of Sikhism, Guru Nanak, where he established the first Sikh commune. Since the borders were drawn, most Sikhs have been unable to visit this site, and have to now settle for seeing it through a telescope at a special viewing point. As we made our way towards the imposing stadium the noise and intensity was growing louder and louder. We were around 40 minutes early but it was already pretty packed from a local point of view. Thankfully the foreigners area not so much, although it did eventually fill up by the time the ceremony started. We only really knew what we knew about the ceremony from what we had seen on YouTube. Honestly if we had just rocked up here with not much sense of what was going on, we would have been clueless! Inside the stadium it is raucous, with all manner of chanting and cheering, but we had no idea what was happening. We were stoked by the buzz and energy and were happily cheering though! We thought that the ceremony would start at 5pm (as we were told), but it was actually 5.15pm. In the build up the crowd were being whipped into a frenzy by a very passionate MC, patriotically putting power into chants of 'Hindustan Hindustan' and 'Jai hind' (victory to India). There was also a lot of long low tones that would hang in the air to suspense from the crowd, erupting in a final hurrah to thousands of screams and ole's. This happened throughout! Really wild! It was like being at the Emirates (Arsenal stadium), albeit smaller, and without a football pitch. The stadium is said to house a cool 25k though, and it certainly feels like it. Especially as most of that number is housed in two opposite stands, as the main entrance has above it an ornate gallery looking down on proceedings. Several BSF soldiers were up there, looking out ominously at things with an eagle eye and all manner of seriousness. We sat back, grabbed some popcorn (literally, for 100 rupees), and enjoyed the show. It is a real spectacle, at first starting with a massive hoard of women who dance fanatically through the entrance to about a third of the way into the stadium. The MC guy keeps hyping them up as the DJ belts out traditional and modern party songs. It is a fascinating scene, and this proceeds the ceremony itself, which involves sets of soldiers high-kicking their way to the border gate. They beat their chests, and antagonize the Pakistanis, who by the way, are doing the same thing, albeit with much less aplomb. Dressed in a khaki uniform, fantail headgear and those traditional waxed twirly moustaches, it all feels a bit like a pantomime. The Pakistanis are the villains, to which no doubt the Indians are dressed up as to them. Both sides continue to brow beat, chest thump and high kick their way towards the gate. All the while the crowd does not stop cheering and chanting, and the whole affair just continued to get more and more elaborate. On the Pakistan side, it certainly seemed like the show was a tad more low key. As with the competitive spirit of the ceremony, each DJ was cranking up the volume to drown out one another, so we can't be too sure of sound. But the curved white stand on that side was not quite full, and its spectators not quite as animated. The soldiers were doing their part though, as was this incredible one-legged whirling dervish, who amazed us both after doing this for a good few minutes! The final hurrah, after what seemed like an age, was the lowering of the flags. This happened after the gates were opened with pomp and tenacity, after which there was a brief moment where the two sets of soldiers come face to face. It may seem like it should be a tense point in the affair, but it kind of felt a little tame to us. All of a sudden, just like that, the gates were then closed. It was all over, and it was time to face the crowd of people to get out. At this point we weren't really sure what we had just witnessed, but we felt we had a great time nonetheless. A moment to show some patriotism, and thanks in a way, to India. This being our last excursion here before flying back to Thailand! We did not learn much from our time there, but we did learn a great deal more afterwards when researching for this post. The Wagah Border Ceremony may come across like a bizarre patriotic knees-up, but it is so much more than that. So much more than just for ceremonial purposes too. This is people coming together - thousands of people - every day, in sweltering temperatures, to showcase their nationality and allegiance to their country. Be it India or Pakistan, it's all in good faith, jest and harmony. It is an exceptional event that has prompted this very blog, alongside a rising litany of videos and other blogs elsewhere in the ether. It has made its name for a reason. It demonstrates a value of co-operation, a value that splinters from the narrative given by politicians. A value that we can only hope the leaders that refuse to relinquish their differences may yet embrace! Save for later: DON'T MISS the Dharohar Folk Dance Show & the Bagore Ki Haveli in Udaipur We are in Rajasthan for the incredible Bagore Ki Haveli Dharohar Folk Dance Show in Udaipur! All you need to know including VIDEO highlights. RETURN TO CONTENTS What are the tensions between India and Pakistan? The history of the conflict between India and Pakistan is complex and multifaceted, with roots in the partition of British India in 1947. Here's an overview of key events leading to the establishment of the Wagah Border Ceremony: ⪢ Partition of British India (1947) The British decision to leave India in 1947 resulted in the creation of two independent nations – India and Pakistan. The partition was based on religious lines, with the predominantly Hindu areas becoming India and the Muslim-majority regions forming Pakistan. ⪢ Kashmir Conflict (1947-48) One of the earliest points of contention was the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. The Maharaja of Kashmir, a Hindu ruler governing a Muslim-majority population, decided to accede to India, leading to conflict. This sparked the first Indo-Pakistani war in 1947-48, resulting in the Line of Control (LoC) dividing Kashmir. ⪢ 1965 & 1971 Indo-Pak Wars Another war broke out in 1965, primarily over the Kashmir issue. The conflict ended with the Tashkent Agreement, mediated by the Soviet Union. The Bangladesh Liberation War, also known as the 1971 Indo-Pak War, eventually won by India, resulted in the creation of Bangladesh as a separate nation. This region had originally been formed as East Pakistan, owing to its large Muslim population. ⪢ Nuclear Proliferation (1998) Both India and Pakistan conducted nuclear tests in 1998, becoming nuclear-armed nations. This added a new dimension to the regional dynamics, heightening concerns about the potential for nuclear conflict. ⪢ Kargil Conflict (1999) In 1999, tensions escalated over the Kargil region in the northern part of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. This conflict brought the two nations to the brink of war once again. ⪢ Terrorism and Proxy Wars Over the years, Pakistan has been accused of supporting terrorism in the region, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir. This has been a major source of ongoing tension between the two nations. Read on for details on how to get there, opening times, ticket prices, our experience rating, and our YouTube video! RETURN TO CONTENTS Things to know before you go ⪢ Entry Vehicles are not allowed past the parking lot, so be advised that there is around a 500 meter walk to the entrance. Men and women must form separate queues to get through security, although as a foreigner this is not necessary. Indeed there is actually a foreigners-only queue, which is far smaller than the domestic ones! We were told that we needed our passport, although they did not check this at security. This was only requested right at the entrance to the stadium. Good news is that you needn't worry about language when inside, as the border officers speak understandable English, and all seem very willing to offer help. ⪢ Seating Interestingly there is a foreigners-only section which is less than 50 meters from the border gate, a pretty good place to watch the ceremony. As you walk into the stadium it is on the far left, and painted white. The rest of the stadium is available for domestic spectators, albeit slightly further away. ⪢ Children Children are of course allowed to attend, but be aware that upon leaving the stadium crowds do bottleneck at the exit, and there seems to be little order. It is shoulder-to-shoulder, so we would recommend waiting until the initial throng has dispersed before leaving. ⪢ Safety The border is teeming with security guards and border patrol people, so there is no real worry on the safety front. This is one of the most heavily guarded borders in the world. There has indeed been no incidents of note in over 30 years, although there has been a steady rise in pickpocket activity, so be careful about that. ⪢ Arrive Early Due to its popularity, it's advisable to arrive early to secure a good vantage point. The gates usually open around 3pm, but 30 - 45 minutes before 5pm should be fine. Try to avoid weekends, as typically crowds can reach as high as thirty thousand! ⪢ Security Measures Expect thorough security checks before entering the venue. Carry only essential items, and only small bags. Large bags or backpacks are not permitted. ⪢ Dress Code It's recommended to dress modestly and respectfully. Avoid clothing with political or controversial messages. ⪢ Photography Photography is allowed, but there are restrictions on certain angles and areas. Follow the instructions of security personnel. ⪢ National Anthem Stand respectfully during the national anthem. The atmosphere is charged with patriotism, and participating in the national anthem is a sign of goodwill. ⪢ Local Customs It is important to respect local customs and traditions. The ceremony is a symbol of national pride, and spectators are expected to behave accordingly. ⪢ Food There are plenty of ice cream vendors and other snack stalls around, plus a large restaurant that is open up until when the ceremony starts. There are also people selling drinks and popcorn during the event to spectators. Bear in mind this will all be cash only. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to get to the Wagah Border from central Amritsar We were able to arrange transport through our hotel, but there are a few other ways to get from central Amritsar to the Wagah Border. Just bear in mind that getting ad-hoc transport after the event is very tricky, so ideally you would want to arrange for your driver to wait for you in the onsite car park. Most should offer this service, but will charge more than the one-way prices we have quoted below. ⪢ By Car This is the fastest and most convenient option, and it will take about 37 minutes. The distance is 31.7 kilometers. You can take NH 354 and Grand Trunk Rd. Here are the directions. ⪢ By Taxi This is also a convenient option, and it will take about the same amount of time as driving. Taxis are readily available in Amritsar, and you can negotiate the fare in advance. We would not expect to pay more than 250 rupees. ⪢ By Bus This is the cheapest option, but it will take the longest. Buses run from Amritsar to the Wagah Border every hour, and the journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. ⪢ By Rickshaw This is a fun and unique way to get to the Wagah Border, and it will take about 45 minutes. Rickshaws are readily available in Amritsar, and you can negotiate the fare in advance. Prices vary, but should not be more than 150 - 200 rupees. Address: JH3F+WJP, Grand Trunk Rd, Wagah, Hardo Rattan, Punjab 143108, India Email: shqamritsar@gmail.com Contact: +91 0183 2990419 Website: attari.bsf.gov.in Instagram: @bsf_punjab_frontier Facebook: @BSFPunjab RETURN TO CONTENTS Wagah Border Ceremony ticket information and operating times There is no charge for Indians or foreigners to attend the Beating Retreat Ceremony. There is a small charge of note for cars to enter the parking lot however, which was 300 rupees per vehicle. Visit the Wagah Beating Retreat Border Ceremony with Klook ● Visit the Saragarhi Memorial Gurudwara and learn about the Battle of Saragarhi. ● Experience the beating retreat at Wagah Border, famous for the ceremonial closing of gates. ● Have dinner at a local restaurant to sample some local cuisine. ● Let Klook take care of the arrangements, so you don't have to! ⪢ Opening hours The start time of the Beating Retreat Ceremony varies depending on the season as shown below. The ceremony is conducted daily, regardless of weather conditions. Summer (April-September): 5:15pm Winter (October-March): 4:15pm The ceremony lasts around 45 minutes. Leaving the stadium can be a little challenging due to the crowds, and it took us around 30 minutes to get back to our driver. The whole experience can take up to 2.5hrs from entry point. The Wagah Border itself is open for visitors between 10am to 4pm. RETURN TO CONTENTS Watch the Wagah Border Ceremony on YouTube Check out our highlights in this action packed video. You won't want to miss this! If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures please do like and subscribe! Your support truly is invaluable to us and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Save for later: India Bus travel goes WRONG: we take a $170 Grab across Rajasthan and are shocked by what we see Our Sindhi Camp Bus Stand nightmare, a wild ride in a $170 Grab and our SHOCK at the state of India's countryside. Find out why (with VIDEO). RETURN TO CONTENTS Our Wagah Border Ceremony experience rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 The Wagah Border Ceremony is a must-see experience for anyone visiting Amritsar. It's a powerful reminder of the shared history and cultural heritage of India and Pakistan, and a unique opportunity to witness the display of national pride and military discipline. While the ceremony has its roots in the need for protocol and closing the border gate, it has evolved into a cultural and patriotic spectacle that attracts spectators from both sides. The intense and coordinated drill performances reflect the deep-rooted history and, in a way, the theatrical nature of the event serves as a reminder of the shared heritage of India and Pakistan, despite their political differences. We highly recommend checking it out! RETURN TO CONTENTS Our final thoughts on an incredible 2 weeks in India And with this post, we find ourselves at the completion of what has been a thoroughly enjoyable India Series! We have really enjoyed putting this together for you and we hope it has been useful! Of all of our 13 countries in Asia, or indeed the 26 others we have visited, India was the most challenging. Without question, one that tested us to our limits like no other. Of course, anytime one gets ill they question their surroundings, but even with our stomach problems to one side, India was tough. Looking back on it all there is just so much more we could have seen and done, things that may well have tipped the scales for us. It does kind of feel like most of what we saw was the inside of our accommodations, which says it all really. Just to put that in perspective Jenn missed the Taj Mahal. Yes missed it. Added to the local scene in the places we stayed, things were not looking good. We have seen some dirty places before, but the things we saw on the streets far exceed anything we have ever encountered. Not going to go into it now, but we were uneasy. Couple that with a growing feeling of travel burnout and we were ready to get out of dodge. We left India exhausted, fatigued and feeling very fragile. It took several weeks for our bodies to fully recover, physically and mentally. There is never too much time to stay still though, and sure enough a month after leaving we were back on the road again. So the tough parts of India started to become a distant memory, almost forgotten, and our thoughts now only turn to the good times. The more we think about it, we had a lot of them! Being with our friends Jackson and Marjo certainly made the experience a whole heap better and we thoroughly enjoyed being there together. Delhi was actually really awesome, especially Humayun's Tomb and the India Gate, and then there was of course a brilliant night at the Dr Zombie Restaurant and Bar. Navigating trains and buses, riding 8 hours in a Grab to Udaipur, watching a traditional folk dance, meeting friends in our first ever hostel stay. We did so much in two weeks, despite the days spent inside. We made it work, and we are most grateful and blessed for all of the lovely people of India who helped us through, offered wonderful hospitality and made us feel welcome. Oh and to all of the scammers, ya'll know what you can do! And with that we bid you farewell and goodnight from India, and on to our Round the World Series on our blog. Be sure to stay tuned for it! RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our Blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram, you can join our broadcast channel for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog, and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your interactive map of Northern India Check out all of the places we visited in India courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your GUIDE to visiting India First time in India? Check out our comprehensive guide with all you need to know including our latest posts, must-see places, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, connectivity, visa information, useful links and much more!

In what was to be our last accommodation in India, we stay at the Pribson Hotel in Amritsar, conveniently located just 15 minutes away from the famous Golden Temple. We had a great stay here and enjoyed the food, ambience and hospitality. This hotel is fairly new and offers great sized rooms along with excellent service and good food. We always knew that this was one of the more 'bougie' hotels on our itinerary and it certainly did not disappoint. There are a few small not-so-important things that perhaps need to improve, such as better WiFi, cleaner linens and a better food range. But these are minor concerns, and do not do enough to push this out of the four star range for India. Overall we had a really good stay and we hope this review will convince you to try it too. Thank you for stopping by, and a warm welcome to our India series here on Jenn & Leon Travel Blog. We had always wanted to visit this country, officially the 7th oldest in the world, and not only was the time finally upon us, but it came with our good friends and fellow Youtuber's Jackson and Marjo! If you missed our earlier posts and would like to catch up, head over to our dedicated INDIA page or look out for the links in this blog. Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here for more information. Save 5% off on your 1st hotel booking on the Klook app PROMO CODE: HotelOnApp Our Pribson Hotel highlights Throughout our time in India one of the things we were most looking forward to was this very trip to Amritsar, in the main to see the Wagah Border Crossing Ceremony and the Golden Temple. The Pribson Hotel ticks all the boxes on that front, providing transport services to both places, with them being 45 and 15 minutes away respectively. Plus it is a fantastic cost too for a 4 star hotel! Let's take a closer look... ⪢ The location: the Pribson Hotel in Amritsar There are a lot of places to see in Amritsar, and even though we only got to see one of them in the end, we wanted to list some of the options here. Just to show you how ideal the location of the Pribson is! All times refer to a taxi or rickshaw. ● 10 minutes away from the Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Durgiana Temple, Gobindgarh Fort, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama and Amritsar Junction Railway Station. ● 20 minutes away from Sadda Pind. ● 45 minutes away from the Wagah Border. ● Local Transport: nearest Bus Stand 5 minutes, Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport 30 minutes. The hotel can accommodate most excursions, arranging transport, tickets and a personal driver if need be. For example when we went to the Wagah Border, our driver waited almost 3 hours for us. ⪢ The cost With Canada and Britain being our home countries, the price per night at $59 cad is an absolute steal! This being India though, we do see this on the higher side of what you can get. The hotel does do enough to justify the price and its rating, yet there are many more in Amritsar that we looked at that offer a similar standard for more around the $40 mark. Per night cost: $59 CAD / $43.47 USD / £34.47 4 night cost: $236 CAD / $173.83 USD / £137.94 ** prices quoted are at time of writing (April 2024) and are subject to change at any time. Please check the official website for up-to-date information. ⪢ The Rooftop Terrace Even though the hotel has been open for over 18 months, it is still a work in progress. As we were not told about it, we had no idea there was a rooftop terrace until our third day here! As we said though, parts of it are still under construction so it is not up to all that much. The view is really nice though, giving you a good extended view of the city from 3 different angles. As the hotel is opposite an overpass, it is very loud up here. It's nice to watch the traffic go by though, catch some sun and pass a bit of time. No doubt this area will continue to improve though, starting with some seating hopefully! ⪢ Inside the Pribson Hotel The hotel has been furnished really nicely and the lobby and hallways are pretty pristine when it comes to decorating and cleaning standards. It is really bright and open when you come into the building, and there are plenty of places to sit and relax. We could sense the young age here with everything feeling fresh and new. There is a high standard and it certainly gives off a four-star vibe! Save for later: Dreamyard Udaipur: Our first ever hostel stay in India One Udaipur's highest rated hostels, Dreamyard offers fantastic views on Lake Pichola, along with great service and traditional Indian decor. RETURN TO CONTENTS The Food at Pribson Hotel So of course, despite feeling a lot better in Udaipur, our stomach issues (see pretty much all of our previous posts) came back to haunt us here in Amritsar, albeit far milder than before. We managed to add a bit more variety into our food choices though thankfully, which was something we were very much looking forward to. We were stopped in our tracks on the second day however, and ended up sticking to eggs and toast, along with plain maggi (noodles). The menu does seem fairly limited, and very similar to much of what we have seen in other hotels. The restaurant is located on the ground floor, and room service is also available. The dinner menu is bigger than the breakfast one (below), and offers a mix of Indian and Chinese cuisine. From what we tried, we cannot complain about the food. Taste-wise it was good, although it often came lukewarm when ordered as room service, which is a shame. There are a few things to be careful of when ordering to your room, in particular around drinks, whereby there are different sizes and charges which got confused several times. ⪢ Make a note We were not provided with a bill on ordering, and these are all kept and collated at the front desk. We would definitely advise keeping a close eye on your tab, if not clearing it daily. Be sure to ask for the itemized bills, as we found that at first we were just given a plain sheet with the total value and therefore could not see exactly what we were paying for. We did have a fair few incorrect charges, water being one of them, which the manager kindly removed after we informed him of the errors. RETURN TO CONTENTS Our Room at the Pribson Hotel There are four room choices available, the standard, deluxe, premium club and Pribson suite. We had a standard double booked, but we were kindly upgraded to the deluxe suite. The room was nicely decorated and fairly modern. It was a comfortable place to spend time in, especially given that we weren't up to going out much with our bathroom needs. The bed was not spectacular but fairly comfortable. It was a little on the firm side, and also the sheets had a couple of stains on them (not fresh ones thank goodness). But it did have good pillows, which can always be a saving grace! The room comes with a kettle, TV and air conditioning. We seldom use TV's but they are always good to have, especially if you want to cast to a bigger screen (we mainly stream on our laptops). The staff were a little patchy on replacing the tea and coffee but we could easily get more when we needed. Perhaps the weirdest thing, was that the provided plastic cups kept splitting at the bottom. We say 'kept' because we actually went through two of them, and Jackson and Marjo did too. We do drink a lot of coffee, apparently enough to break cups! ⪢ The bathroom The true test of any bathroom is its cleanliness of course, but also its space, lighting, hot water and water pressure (for us anyway). This one excelled on that front; the pressure in the shower was so strong it was practically like a massage. The water was on the more warm side, but still ok. Lighting was just fine and overall the bathroom is a very nice space. There are some basic supplies provided such as toothpaste, shampoo and bodywash, although bizarrely no hand soap. There was also no hair dryer, although we think we could have asked for one. ⪢ A bit scruffy, and terrible towels! We must add that despite its young age our room was a little scuffed in places, with markings on the walls and furniture fraying a little at the edges. We also had a problem with the bath towels we were given, both of which had big stains on them. We asked for replacements, only for them to come with stains too. This is definitely an issue for the hotel, and we did raise this to profuse apologies to the manager. Hopefully this has been resolved now! RETURN TO CONTENTS Pribson Hotel Hotel Facilities There are not a great deal of services to talk about here, so if you are looking for a pool or gym, you may be disappointed. It does look like there is more work happening towards to the upper floors so more could be added in the future. For now, you will have to make do with a multi-cuisine restaurant and the room service. We did order a fair bit of room service, although we did eat downstairs in the morning a few times. The restaurant is a really nice space, clean and tidy, and the servers are friendly and helpful. The same can be said of the room service team, although they were a tad slow on occasion, and kept forgetting drinks (or saying they were sold out, and not removing them from the bill). RETURN TO CONTENTS Pribson Hotel Services The Pribson Hotel offers a number of key services including: ● 24 hour concierge ● Front door security + CCTV ● Elevator ● Foreign Exchange Facility ● Doctor on Call (how cool is this?!) ● Cloak Room / Baggage Storage ● Laundry ● Central Air-conditioning ● Airport transfer ● Excursions (such as the Golden Temple & Wagah Border) All major Credit Cards are accepted too, which is very handy given there are not many ATM's nearby ⪢ Make a note When it comes to laundry, typically most of us would never consider hotel services because of their quite frankly, exorbitant costs. That being said, in India however, prices are fairly reasonable and given our full-time travel limited wardrobes, and lack of laundry facilities in general, we did do this in our homestay back in Jaipur. It was a disaster though, paying $10 for all of our clothes to come back damp and smelling pretty bad. We complained and found out that as per 'custom' clothes are usually washed in the nearest body of water. Nearest body of what now?! No thanks! Needless to say we did not use the service at the Pribson, but we did read a review of someone who did, and they complained that their clothes came back damp and smelly... go figure. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to find the Pribson Hotel in Amritsar The Pribson Hotel is as close to the centre of the city as you can get, and is easily accessible for taxis and rickshaws. There is ample parking available, and the hotel can service transport and airport needs efficiently. We did also order a Grab from here, which found the Pribson easily. ⪢ Contact Information Address: 46-Hide Market, Chowk, Grand Trunk Rd, opp. Post Office, Hussainpura, Amritsar, Punjab 143001, India Contact Number: +91 9878 187 818 Opening times (manned concierge): 24 hours Website: thepribsonhotel.com Check-in: 14:00 / Check out: 12:00 Save for later: All Seasons Homestay: A beautiful and convenient Jaipur hotel A 3-star homestay that really feels like so much more! This beautiful hotel is in a great location and is themed on the six seasons in India. RETURN TO CONTENTS Our Pribson Hotel experience ratings ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 The Pribson Hotel certainly stands out as a good 4 out of 5, although there are some improvements that are needed before we could give it a clean sweep. The service is excellent here and the staff are really friendly. It is an excellent location and is a good price with the rooms nice and spacious, and the hotel itself very modern and clean in the common areas. Downsides for us were the dirty towels (several times), lack of complimentary supplies and the under-developed rooftop. The food could improve too, but overall, we would definitely recommend the Pribson Hotel. RETURN TO CONTENTS Coming up: Our final adventure in India, the incredible Wagah Border Crossing Genuinely one of the standout excursions of all of our travels, the Wagah Border Crossing is a place like no other! Here, every day for a mammoth 64 years, both India and their great rivals Pakistan conduct the Beating Retreat Ceremony. The ceremony kicks off with a synchronized goose-stepping march by the soldiers. Think synchronized high kicks, stomps, and elaborate arm movements, all meant to impress and intimidate the other side. This isn't just a silent display, though. Verbal challenges and playful banter fly back and forth, adding to the electrifying energy of this place. Then comes the highlight: the flag-lowering ceremony. As the national flags of India and Pakistan are majestically lowered, the thousands in attendance erupt in cheers and patriotic chants. While the ceremony might sound aggressive, it's important to remember its history. It began in 1959 as a goodwill gesture, and despite the political tensions between the nations, it continues to be a symbol of shared heritage and border discipline. For the locals, it's a source of immense pride and a way to connect with their cultural roots. For tourists, it's an unforgettable window into the complexities and nuances of India-Pakistan relations. Don't miss this post, the last in our India Series! RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our Blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram, you can join our broadcast channel for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog, and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your interactive map of Northern India Check out all of the places we visited in India courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android. It is super easy to use and has a whole raft of really useful features including destination and itinerary suggestions, hotel recommendations, guides and maps. For even more convenience Wanderlog can also scan your email inbox and automatically import flight and hotel bookings, so you can have everything you need in one place (our favorite feature). It even works offline too! We highly recommend checking it out. Download Wanderlog here. RETURN TO CONTENTS Your GUIDE to visiting India First time in India? Check out our comprehensive guide with all you need to know including our latest posts, must-see places, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, connectivity, visa information, useful links and much more!

Standing proudly as a landmark in the beautiful city of Udaipur, Nexus Celebration Mall is much more than just a shopping destination. It is a testament to the city's rich heritage, a melting pot of modern amenities and ethnic charm, and a vibrant hub of entertainment and leisure. Join us as we check it out, do a random video shoot there AND try McDonald's for the first time (in India). With our time in India starting to wind down to its close, we thought that we simply had to get a mall visit in. We had just come from Manila (Philippines), which is like the capital of malls, so we were always going to try. As ever with India this trip was not without its surprises. Treated to some awesome background music in our rickshaw, we were then approached for a video shoot by an Instagram creator while we were in the mall. Plus we enjoy McDonalds with no beef. And no Big Macs! Thank you for stopping by, and a warm welcome to our India series here on Jenn & Leon Travel Blog. We had always wanted to visit this country, officially the 7th oldest in the world, and not only was the time finally upon us, but it came with our good friends and fellow Youtuber's Jackson and Marjo. If you missed our earlier posts and would like to catch up, head over to our dedicated INDIA page or look out for the links in this blog. Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here for more information. Getting to Celebration Mall from Dreamyard Hostel This rickshaw was an entertaining one to say the least! We have become accustomed to wild rickshaw rides here in India, with one of our highlights fitting six in one, and also all four of us with our luggage on our laps. But this one here in Udaipur had to be the most memorable of all, thanks to in part, some pretty awesome background music. Our driver was super friendly and we would not even have noticed the speakers in the back had he not mentioned them. His music choice was really interesting, a compilation of sounds with no words that came out like a backing track to what we were seeing on the roads with our eyes. The music fitted perfectly with our surroundings and added another layer of charm to our Udaipur adventure. The mall was around 15 minutes away from our hostel, and even though it was early afternoon, the roads were pretty clear most of the way. Udaipur certainly does not suffer from congestion issues like some of the cities we have been to! The drive was smooth and steady, and it was great to catch a glimpse of the wider area away from our hostel. Udaipur is certainly a cultural heritage city and you can see it in every building you look at. It is charming for sure, and we can see why this city makes the Golden Triangle list. We would definitely recommend getting around Udaipur by rickshaw. RETURN TO CONTENTS Nexus Celebration Mall in Udaipur The journey of this mall began in 2010, when it was christened as "The Celebration Mall." It was a joint venture between CapitaMalls Asia Limited and Advanced India Projects Limited (AIPL), marking its grand opening on July 2nd, 2011. What truly sets Nexus Celebration Mall apart is its unique architectural style. The facade boasts stunning Rajasthani stonework, reminiscent of Udaipur's historical palaces and forts. Stepping inside, you're greeted by a contemporary marvel - 23 cascading water bodies and fountains that dance playfully amidst the modern shops and restaurants. This harmonious blend of heritage and modernity has earned the mall the title of "India's first iconic heritage mall." It's a place where you can shop for international brands, indulge in delicious cuisines, and catch the latest movies, all while being enveloped in the timeless beauty of Udaipur's cultural essence. Over the years, Nexus Celebration Mall has garnered numerous accolades and achievements, solidifying its position as a premier shopping and lifestyle destination in Udaipur: ⪢ Footfall Champion: The mall consistently ranks among the highest footfall malls in Rajasthan, attracting over 10 million visitors annually. ⪢ Retail Excellence: It houses over 150 national and international brands, catering to diverse shopping needs and preferences. ⪢ Entertainment Hub: From the pulsating PVR multiplex to the exciting Hungama Game Zone, the mall offers endless entertainment options for all ages. ⪢ Community Catalyst: Nexus Celebration Mall actively hosts cultural events, art exhibitions, and social initiatives, fostering a vibrant community spirit. ⪢ Sustainable Practices: The mall implements various eco-friendly initiatives, such as rainwater harvesting and energy conservation, demonstrating its commitment to responsible development. In 2019, the Blackstone Group acquired the mall, adding it to their prestigious "India Nexus Malls" portfolio. This strategic move promises further expansion, exciting new brands, and even more innovative experiences for visitors. Nexus Celebration Mall is more than just a shopping mall; it's a symbol of Udaipur's vibrant spirit, a testament to its rich heritage, and a beacon of modern progress. It's a place where families create lasting memories, friends catch up over laughter, and tourists discover the essence of Udaipur's charm. As it steps into the future, one thing remains certain: Nexus Celebration Mall will continue to be the heart of Udaipur, beating with the rhythm of its people, culture, and aspirations. Read on for how to get there, opening times and contact information. RETURN TO CONTENTS Our Celebration Mall highlights & YouTube video This mall has a bit of everything as you would expect, with lots of well-known brands and food outlets. We recognized many of the stores and while we were not planning on buying much, we did feel like this is a good spot to come if we were doing so. As it happens, Leon did end up finding a Bluetooth mouse for his laptop, plus an extra SD card for our camera. While we were wandering around, enjoying the air-conditioning, we were approached by a couple of guys who wanted us to participate in a special video shoot they were making for Instagram. We have become used to being approached for photos here in India, but this was different! As you can see from the post, we followed a script of helping this chap who is weary of the escalator. We all did it except for Jenn who was filming. It did seem kind of awkward and a little weird, but it was fun in a way! We took photos and chatted for a while, before parting ways as we were super thirsty and needed a drink. They actually wanted to do another one, and oddly seemed to be following us for a while after we declined, and eventually went away. The did not mean any harm and we didn't mind helping out, but there came a point where we wanted to get on with our time there. Sometimes you just have to say no! It does feel safe in the mall, as one would expect, but it did not necessarily feel comfortable outside of it. It seemed to be surrounded by lots of shacks, ragged stores, dusty roads and a lot of beggars and homeless people milling around the streets. It is fairly shocking to see things like this directly outside a mall; one would usually find the surrounding areas of a place like this to be a little more developed. We almost felt conflicted being there, given the extent of the poverty outside. It is a moral conundrum for sure. If you want to see more of the mall, plus the hostel we stayed at in Udaipur, please do check out our YouTube video! You can watch it all above or go straight to your point of interest by using the timestamps below: ● 00:45 Dreamyard Hostel, Udaipur Room tour, Yummy Food etc!! ● 06:40 The BEST auto rickshaw ride in India EVER ● 08:00 Nexus Celebration Mall, Udaipur High end shopping mall! ● 08:30 Trying McDonalds in India for the FIRST TIME It was a bit hectic in the McDonalds, and ultimately a tad confusing until we realised there would be no beef. Duh! We embraced it nonetheless, even if it did not feel like a McDonald's without a Big Mac! Unfortunately we did not take any photos, but you can tap the time stamp above to check it out if your interested. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to get to Celebration Mall in Udaipur Here are some options for getting from the city centre of Udaipur to Nexus Celebration Mall: ⪢ Rickshaw This is the most affordable option, and it will take about 12 minutes to get there. You would expect to pay between 50 - 100 rupees. ⪢ Taxi This is a bit more expensive than a rickshaw, but it will be faster and more comfortable. It will also take about 12 minutes to get there, and the distance is 4.5 km. ⪢ Walking This is the most eco-friendly option, and it will take about 54 minutes to get there. The distance is 3.9 km, and you can see the route on Google Maps. ⪢ Contact information & Opening Times Address: Opposite Devendra Dham, Pulla Bhuwana, Bhuwana, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313004, India Email: infodesk.celebrationmall@nexusmalls.com Contact: +91 294 244 5111 Opening Hours: 10am to 10pm daily Website: nexusmalls.com/nexus-celebration Instagram: @nexus_celebration ⪢ Best time to visit If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting the mall during weekdays in the morning or afternoon. However, if you enjoy the buzz of a lively atmosphere, evenings and weekends are the best time to go. Save for later: Dreamyard Udaipur: Our first ever hostel stay in India One Udaipur's highest rated hostels, Dreamyard offers fantastic views on Lake Pichola, along with great service and traditional Indian decor. RETURN TO CONTENTS Our India recap; The journey so far With our time in India drawing to a close at this point, we thought it would be a good moment to recap on our time here so far! We have probably already said this a whole bunch of times but there had been so many highs and just as many lows. It has been a mixed bag of emotions, with some really awesome experiences and some not so much. Lets take a look! ⪢ India's Golden Triangle is, sorry to say it, but very dirty The first thing that stands out when we think of India is of course its unique and diverse culture and heritage. It is a country full of color, faith and wisdom, and one that will continue growing on the world stage in the years to come. That all being said, a close second to this thought is that India is kind of dirty. We are sorry folks, because we do not mean to offend, but it really is. We have been generous with our photos here, in part because we do not want to misrepresent all of India, or try to be over-zealous and shed a negative light. We have written previously about our growing understanding of the reasons for this, amongst others poor infrastructure, over-population, corruption in government and lack of education. The sanitation issue will only continue to get worse, especially when one factors in the terrible air pollution in cities like Delhi and Agra. The causes are well documented but ultimately it all feels a little like excuses. On ALL sides, that of government and that of people, something needs to be done. ⪢ Why no trash cans? It has to be said that we did travel the famed 'Golden Triangle', the likes of Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur. These are tourist-crazy cities, along with being major population hubs. There are SO many people everywhere, and this of course makes keeping things clean difficult. But that being said, how hard is it to install trash cans? And surely there are enough employable people to empty them? ⪢ Cows roam free Another major element to life in India's big cities is the combination of animals (namely cows and monkeys) and congestion. Cows are considered sacred animals in Hinduism, the majority religion in India. Hindus believe that cows are the mothers of all living beings and that they should be treated with respect. As a result, cows are often allowed to roam freely in India, even in cities. In many parts of India, there is simply not enough infrastructure to keep cows off the roads. There are not enough fences, and there are not enough cowsheds. As a result, cows are often left to their own devices. The presence of cows on the roads can pose a number of challenges, causing traffic accidents, and spreading diseases. However, many Indians view cows as a blessing, and they are willing to tolerate the inconveniences that they cause. In recent years, there has been a growing movement in India to address the problem of stray cows. The government has introduced a number of initiatives to reduce the number of stray cows, such as providing subsidies to farmers who keep their cows in cowsheds. However, the problem of stray cows is still a significant one in India and we do feel it is an issue that needs to be resolved. ⪢ No control: the roads are chaos There are few places to escape the chaos of the roads. You can find just about everything going on here; guys manually dragging carts and barrows on their backs, horses, cows, rickshaws, buses, cars, vans, trucks. Oh and less we forget scooters, and bikes. Lots of scooters and bikes. Couple that with practically no traffic controls, no road markings, poor signage and barely-there traffic lights. It is akin to carnage! Many Indians will proudly joke about things online, in that they are raised in this environment, are used to it, and love seeing foreigners' reactions. We totally get that, although we are glad that as foreigners we are not permitted to drive vehicles on India's roads. The government of India itself says it is too dangerous - and we agree. ⪢ Old vehicles and a lot of pollution The intensity of the road system is like nothing we have ever seen. We have travelled across Asia and seen incredible collections of bikes and whatnot, but the scale in India is unrivalled. Especially how it all seems to blend and meld with each other, almost traversing seamlessly through intersections with barely a bump or a scrape of note. It is pretty spectacular to look at actually, if you can comprehend the madness of it all. The biggest issues with the chaotic roads is that of the shocking level of air pollution; most vehicles seem to be very old and worn here. And perhaps unsurprisingly, poorly maintained and therefore heavily polluting. The air is awful and it is really hard to be outside for too long, in particular in Delhi. No wonder it ranks as one of the worst cities in the world for air quality! Oh and by the way, we haven't even got onto the honking yet. Yes the honking. Yes we have already whined about it but seriously, the honking!!! Noise is an element of pollution too... ⪢ Crazy 24/7 honking! Incredibly many of the rickshaws and trucks actually encourage honking, such is the custom on the roads here in India. Honking is a way of life, something drivers do in such a way that it almost seems natural to honk at every turn, every stop, every passing of a vehicle, and pretty much every time one sees a bike or scooter. Which is all the time. This all culminates in cities devoid of anything that resembles peace. There is no quiet; just noise and chaos, 24/7. You would think it would stop at night, or early morning, but it does not. It is constant. We could never live comfortably in any of the cities we have visited purely for this reason. We even resorted to using a fan app to try and drown out the noise so we could get some sleep! Scams, beware for scams! Much of the scams on tourists in India are very well documented, and you will find them easily in a few searches on Google or YouTube. That being said, it is a double edged sword because if you go in to India believing you will be scammed at every opportunity, you will never be able to trust anyone. And many people are good people. The scammers give a bad rep, and most of the time they are only trying to wheedle you out of a couple of extra dollars. Not the point, but still. We got caught out a lot to be honest, in particular with rickshaw drivers overcharging. We also got charged higher prices at stores, got charged for food on a train even though free food was coming, and stayed in a terribly decrepit hotel which could not have been further from the pictures we saw online. We were even dropped off in the wrong spot on our first day here, and coaxed into what turned out to be a non-official 'tourist centre'. It is easy to understand why people try scamming, but very hard to stop them. We do not know if the Indian government is working that hard to fix the issues, but as long as scamming is so rife on tourists in India, it will continue to give India a bad name. Hawkers and beggars We have encountered several countries that have a notable amount of hawkers and beggars, but here in India, it feels like it is next level! Literally within moments of stepping into any public space, someone will be around to approach and offer something. It is everywhere, especially at public transport points and hotels. The most frustrating thing is that whomever it is, they seldom leave you alone. And if they do at all they stop and stare. Incessantly. It is weird!! The beggars are of course incredibly sad to see, especially the children, of whom we saw such a worrying amount of. This is sadly something that is part of the fabric of India and we hope this will change. So much more can be done. Aside from all that, there is so much to see too! The things that we have spoken about so far came first because they all hit you so quickly! There is so much that we were prepared for, yet so much that shocked us. It requires far better planning and preparation than we had done, and we were nowhere near as ready as we thought we were. It took some adjusting, but with our travel experience behind us we got over it and got out there to see some stuff. And we certainly did, before we were struck down with food poisoning! Take a look at some of our highlights: ⪢ Humayun's Tomb Humayun's Tomb in New Delhi turned out to be a real gem. Not just the main attraction, there is also Isa Khan's Tomb and Mosque, and the wonderful gardens surrounding and connecting everything on the site. Gardens which also happen to be the first ever tomb gardens on the Indian sub-continent! ⪢ India Gate The India Gate is a prominent war memorial located in the heart of New Delhi. It was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, a British architect, as part of the larger architectural plan for New Delhi, which was then under British colonial rule. The foundation stone was laid in 1921, and the monument was completed in 1931. We head to this spectacular gate at night, before a unique first time KFC India experience! ⪢ Vande Bharat Express In what was our first train ride as foreigners in India, we take the Vande Bharat Express directly to Agra from Delhi. In this post we will show you what the train was like, how we got tickets, what to do at both stations, and other things you may need to know. ⪢ Taj Mahal In the heart of northern India, where the Yamuna River winds its way through the historic city of Agra, stands a testament to love that has transcended centuries. A masterpiece of marble, a symbol of eternal romance, and a jewel in the crown of architectural wonders – the Taj Mahal is more than just a monument; it's a living chronicle etched in white stone. ⪢ Dharohar Fold Dance Show Udaipur, the enchanting City of Lakes, beckons travelers with its mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Among its many treasures, the Bagore Ki Haveli Dharohar Folk Dance Show stands as a captivating cultural must-see, weaving together the rich traditions of Rajasthan into an unforgettable spectacle. Struck by stomach issues but we live to fight another day! So to say things had been eventful in India would be an understatement, and on top of that our descent into the sorry depths of stomach issues threatened to derail our whole trip. Most of what we saw in India was before this happened, and we saw little thereafter. Our list of places to see is littered with unticked boxes, as for at least half of our 2 weeks here we stayed in our accommodation. By the bathroom. Yes it was that bad (and well-documented in previous posts, so keeping it brief here). It was only at this point, as we were leaving Udaipur, that things improved enough for us to 'stomach' a day out. And so onwards to Amritsar, and the famous Wagah Border Ceremony! RETURN TO CONTENTS Coming up: Our Pribson Hotel review, and highlights from the incredible Beating Retreat ceremony at the Wagah Border in Amritsar We review our final hotel stay in India, at the Pribson Hotel in Amritsar. We chose this hotel for its proximity to the Golden Temple, although we could not make it there as it was closed for a state visit. We show you what you can get for your money here. We did find our way to the Wagah Border Ceremony though, an experience like no other on the land border between the two great rivals of India and Pakistan. This incredible ceremony has been taking place every day for 64 years and is attended by thousands of people. It is called the Beating Retreat for the unique way the soldiers march and gesture towards each other. We cannot wait to share these highlights! RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our India Series There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with our India series here on Jenn and Leon Travel Blog. If you follow us on Instagram, you can join our broadcast channel for our latest updates including our posts. You will also find us on YouTube, and we can't wait to share some epic footage with you over there! Last, but most certainly not least, you can simply subscribe to our blog right here, and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. RETURN TO CONTENTS Your interactive map of Northern India Check out all of the places we visited in India courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your GUIDE to visiting India First time in India? Check out our comprehensive guide with all you need to know including our latest posts, must-see places, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, connectivity, visa information, useful links and much more!

Udaipur, the enchanting City of Lakes, beckons travelers with its mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Among its many treasures, the Bagore Ki Haveli Dharohar Folk Dance Show stands as a captivating cultural must-see, weaving together the rich traditions of Rajasthan into an unforgettable spectacle. Stepping into the Bagore Ki Haveli, a magnificent 18th-century mansion overlooking the serene Pichola Lake, is akin to embarking on a journey through time. The haveli's grand architecture, with its intricate carvings and graceful balconies, transports you to an era of royalty and splendor. The Bagore Ki Haveli Dharohar Folk Dance Show is more than just a performance; it is a cultural odyssey, a window into the soul of Rajasthan. It is an invitation to experience the rich tapestry of traditions, the vibrant colors of life, and the enduring spirit of this enchanting land. Thank you for stopping by, and a warm welcome to our India series here on Jenn & Leon Travel Blog. We had always wanted to visit this country, officially the 7th oldest in the world, and not only was the time finally upon us, but it came with our good friends and fellow Youtuber's Jackson and Marjo. If you missed our earlier posts and would like to catch up, head over to our dedicated INDIA page or look out for the links in this blog. Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here for more information. Save 5% off on your 1st hotel booking on the Klook app PROMO CODE: HotelOnApp What is the Dharohar Folk Dance Show of Udaipur? The Dharohar Folk Dance Show is a cultural event held daily at the 18th century Bagore Ki Haveli in Udaipur, India. The show showcases the vibrant and diverse folk dances of Rajasthan, giving visitors a glimpse into the state's rich cultural heritage. The show features a variety of folk dances, each with its own unique style, costumes, and music. Some of the most popular dances include the Ghoomar, Bhavai, and Chari. Our favorite dance, the Bhavai, involves balancing clay pots on the head while dancing, with a plethora of gravity-defying moves. The show has been running for 14 years and is the brainchild of Mr. Deepak Dixit, who wanted to bring elements of the Rajasthani culture under one roof to revive and promote the rich heritage and art of the region. Read on for our highlights, details of the five different dances about it, the history of Bagore Ki Haveli, how to get there, opening times and ticket information. RETURN TO CONTENTS Our Dharohar Folk Dance Show highlights When we arrived at our hostel, we heard the music coming from the Bagore Ki Haveli and were instantly drawn to it. In fact, we could see right into the courtyard from our balcony. Lights and sounds emanated from the former mansion with rhythm, color, and storytelling. We knew we had to visit and arranged it the very next day. We did not know much, if anything, about the museum part. We did not have the time to check that out, but from what we saw of the courtyard, this beautiful building has a whole heap of stories to tell. No doubt the museum would be worthwhile! Heading inside we were made aware of a 'camera' charge, although ours was in our bag, and no-one checked at all. It may be an outdated charge, and is not much, but be aware of it. Also be sure to adhere to the 'no spitting' rules, as they are taken very seriously here haha! Inside the central atrium, there is a large tree opposite the main performance area, and the lighting is really nicely done with fairy lights too. The seating is either on the floor on mats and rugs, on long benches, or if where we were, on a ledge against a wall. Coupled with the ancient architecture, the entire scene totally felt like we had just walked straight into Indian culture 101. It is really beautiful, and even before the start of the show we were already glad we had come. There are five dances in total, and all of them are unique in their own way. There are quite a few solo performances too, and the dancers themselves were all fantastic. One could tell how seriously they were and getting it just right, with all of the intricate hand and feet movements. It was accomplished, attractive and dare we say patriotic almost, and we loved it. It was so much fun! One of our favorite performances was of one particular dancer who performed 'chari', a pretty incredible feat of dancing with no less than eight clay pots on her head. They were taller than she was! Not to spoil it for you, but this highly talented artist actually rubbed her feet on broken glass too - yes your read that right. She also did some pretty insane balancing tricks, and we were quite frankly shocked that the pots on her head barely moved an inch. Even when she then started running around in circles. Another charming act is the puppet show, and although we could only see it from the side, it was still a lot of fun. The audience really enjoyed this one too and it was actually a nice interjection between the dances. This is also one of the oldest of the Rajasthani traditions on display here; indeed puppetry was used widely many centuries ago as a way of conveying messages and stories to children and adult alike. Kind of like an old-school TV without the tech haha. Overall this was a really good experience and we would recommend it for sure. It is not expensive at all and is a great way to throw yourself into culture and custom in India. The dance is great and the setting for it in the museum is a great touch. There are some real vibes here and we will definitely come again if we are ever back in Udaipur. Save for later: Dreamyard Udaipur: Our first ever hostel stay in India One Udaipur's highest rated hostels, Dreamyard offers fantastic views on Lake Pichola, along with great service and traditional Indian decor. RETURN TO CONTENTS What are the different Rajasthani dances and shows? There are no less than five different dances that you will see in the one hour show, and we have put them together here including their history and significance in Rajasthan: ⪢ Ghoomar Ghoomar, also known as Ghumar, is a traditional folk dance of Rajasthan, India, performed primarily by women. It is a captivating dance characterized by its graceful movements, vibrant attire, and lively music. Originating from the Bhil tribe, Ghoomar was initially performed to worship Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge, music, and arts. Over time, the dance gained popularity and spread across various communities in Rajasthan, becoming an integral part of their cultural celebrations. Ghoomar is typically performed during auspicious occasions, such as weddings, festivals, and social gatherings. The dance is known for its synchronized movements, where a group of women gracefully swirl their long, flowing skirts, known as ghaghara, in unison. The skirts, often adorned with intricate embroidery and mirror work, add a touch of elegance and vibrancy to the performance. The rhythm of Ghoomar is set by a combination of percussion instruments, including dholak, manjira, and dhol. The music, often accompanied by folk songs, creates a lively and energetic atmosphere that complements the dancers' movements. ⪢ Terah Thaali Terah Taali, meaning "thirteen claps" in Hindi, is a folk dance from Rajasthan, performed primarily by women of the Kamad tribe. It is a rhythmic dance characterized by the synchronized clapping of thirteen pairs of manjira cymbals attached to various parts of the dancers' bodies. Terah Taali traces its origins to ancient Rajasthan, where it was performed as a form of worship and storytelling. The dance is often associated with the worship of Lord Shiva and is believed to possess the power to ward off evil spirits. Terah Taali is also performed during various festivals and celebrations, adding to the festive spirit with its lively rhythm and synchronized movements. Terah Taali is a highly energetic dance that demands skill, coordination, and stamina. The dancers stand in a circle, their bodies adorned with colorful ghagras (traditional skirts) and intricate jewelry. The thirteen pairs of manjira cymbals are strategically attached to their wrists, ankles, elbows, and knees. As the music begins, the dancers begin clapping their manjira cymbals in a synchronized pattern, creating a rhythmic symphony that fills the air. Their movements are energetic and precise, their bodies swaying and twirling to the beat. The dance demands a high level of focus and coordination, as the dancers must maintain the rhythm while keeping track of the intricate patterns. The music for Terah Taali is typically provided by traditional percussion instruments, such as dhol, dholak, and manjira. The music is fast-paced and energetic, creating an atmosphere of excitement and engagement. ⪢ Bhavai Bhavai is a vibrant folk dance and theater tradition that originated in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, India. It is a captivating blend of dance, music, drama, and storytelling, performed primarily by men and women of the Bhavai community. Bhavai traces its roots back to the 15th century, when it emerged as a form of entertainment and social commentary. The dance-drama often addressed contemporary issues, satirizing societal norms and criticizing the ruling class. Bhavai performers were considered social commentators and held a significant position in the community. Bhavai performances are characterized by their energetic and expressive movements, often incorporating elements of acrobatics and improvisation. The dancers, dressed in colorful costumes adorned with intricate embroidery and mirror work, move with grace and agility, captivating the audience with their storytelling and performance skills. The music of Bhavai is an integral part of the performance, setting the mood and tempo for the dance-drama. Traditional percussion instruments, such as dhol, dholak, and manjira, provide the rhythmic backbone, while the soulful melodies of folk songs and classical music narrate the story and evoke emotions. Bhavai performances often revolve around mythological tales, historical events, and social issues. The stories are presented in a captivating manner, with the performers using their dance, gestures, and expressions to convey emotions and engage the audience. ⪢ Gavri Gavri is a folk dance and theater tradition that originated in the Mewar region of Rajasthan. It is a blend of dance, music, drama, and storytelling, performed primarily by men and women of the Bhil tribe. Gavri traces its roots back to the 13th century, when it emerged as a form of entertainment, storytelling, and religious devotion. The dance-drama often addressed mythological tales, historical events, and social issues, and was used to invoke blessings from the gods and goddesses. Gavri performers were considered storytellers and cultural guardians, holding a significant position in the Bhil community. Gavri performances are characterized by their energetic and expressive movements, often incorporating elements of acrobatics, improvisation, and mime. The dancers, dressed in colorful costumes adorned with beads, feathers, and animal hides, move with grace and agility, captivating the audience with their storytelling and performance skills. The music of Gavri is an integral part of the performance, setting the mood and tempo for the dance-drama. Traditional percussion instruments, such as dhol, dholak, and madal, provide the rhythmic backbone, while the melodies of folk songs and classical music narrate the story and evoke emotions. Gavri performances often revolve around mythological tales, particularly those of the Bhil community's deities, such as Amba Mata and Pabuji. The stories are presented in a captivating manner, with the performers using their dance, gestures, and expressions to convey emotions and engage the audience. ⪢ Chari Chari dance is an inspirational folk dance performed by women in Rajasthan. It is known for its graceful movements, vibrant attire, and balancing of earthenware pots on the dancers' heads. Chari dance originated in the Ajmer and Kishangarh regions of Rajasthan. It is primarily performed during auspicious occasions, such as weddings, festivals, and celebrations. The dance is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity. Chari dance is characterized by its synchronized movements and graceful balance. Dancers swirl and twirl, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. They wear colorful ghagharas (traditional skirts) and adorn themselves with jewelry and ornaments. The focal point of the dance is the balancing of earthenware pots, known as chari, on their heads. The pots are often filled with water and lit oil lamps, adding to the visual appeal and challenge of the dance. The rhythm of Chari dance is set by a combination of percussion instruments, including dholak, nagada, harmonium, bankia, and thali. The music is lively and energetic, creating an atmosphere of excitement and engagement. The dance represents the joy, celebration, and rich cultural heritage of the region. It is a testament to the skill, grace, and resilience of the women of Rajasthan. ⪢ Puppet Show Puppet dancing, also known as Kathputli, is a traditional form of entertainment in Rajasthan. It has been practiced for centuries and is an important part of the state's cultural heritage. Kathputli puppets are made of wood and are controlled by strings. They are typically brightly colored and dressed in traditional Rajasthani clothing. The puppeteers use their hands to manipulate the strings, making the puppets dance and move in a variety of ways. Kathputli performances are usually held in open-air spaces, such as marketplaces or village squares. The stories told in the performances are often based on mythology, folklore, or current events. The performances are typically humorous and satirical, and they often poke fun at social norms and political figures. Read on for details on how to get there, opening times and ticket prices, our experience rating, and our YouTube video! RETURN TO CONTENTS What is the Bagore Ki Haveli? The Bagore Ki Haveli is a magnificent structure that stands proudly on the banks of Lake Pichola in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. Its intricate carvings, elegant balconies, greenery and grand courtyards offer a glimpse into the grandeur of a bygone era. ⪢ 18th Century Origins The haveli, meaning 'mansion' or 'townhouse' in Hindi, traces its origins back to the 18th century when Amar Chand Badwa, the Prime Minister of Mewar, commissioned its construction. Badwa, a man of refined taste and a patron of the arts, envisioned a grand residence that would reflect his status and the cultural vibrancy of Mewar. The construction of Bagore Ki Haveli spanned over two decades, from 1751 to 1778, and involved a team of skilled artisans and craftsmen. The haveli's design incorporated elements of Rajput architecture, characterized by its intricate carvings, arched windows, and courtyards. ⪢ Transformation into a Museum After Badwa's passing, the haveli remained in the possession of the Mewar royal family until 1947 when it was acquired by the government of Rajasthan. Recognizing its historical and cultural significance, the government decided to transform the haveli into a museum. The Bagore Ki Haveli Museum was officially opened in 1954, showcasing a collection of artifacts, paintings, and sculptures that chronicled the history and culture of Mewar. The museum's exhibits span various periods, from the ancient to the modern, and offer insights into the region's art, traditions, and way of life. ⪢ A Cultural Hub Beyond its role as a museum, Bagore Ki Haveli has evolved into a vibrant cultural hub. The haveli's courtyards often host cultural events, including the traditional folk dance we attended, music performances, and art exhibitions. ⪢ Architectural Splendor Bagore Ki Haveli stands as a masterpiece of Rajput architecture, captivating foreigners and locals alike. The haveli's exterior is adorned with intricate floral and geometric patterns, while its interior features spacious rooms with arched windows and balconies overlooking Lake Pichola. The haveli's courtyards, once used for social gatherings and celebrations, now serve as exhibition spaces for the museum's collection. The courtyards' lush greenery and serene atmosphere provide a tranquil backdrop for the museum's exhibits too. ⪢ A Legacy of Heritage Today, Bagore Ki Haveli stands as a symbol of Udaipur's rich heritage and cultural legacy. The haveli's transformation into a museum has not only preserved its architectural splendor but also ensured the preservation and promotion of Mewar's cultural heritage for generations to come. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to get to the Bagore Ki Haveli Udaipur Getting to the Bagore Ki Haveli is fairly straightforward from the center of the city. We were just a few hundred yards away at the Dreamyard Hostel, so it was an easy walk for us! Find out more about the hostel here. ⪢ By Walking If walking is your thing, then it is possible to walk here from the center of Udaipur. It is just under 4km and would take around an hour. India is notorious for lac of sidewalks though, so be careful on the roads and always stay alert to traffic around you, in particular bikes and auto-rickshaws. ⪢ By Car / Taxi It takes about 12 minutes to get to the Bagore Ki Haveli from the center of Udaipur. The city can get quite congested, and there are also restrictions on bringing vehicles in to this part of town. If you are taking a taxi, they may not stop directly outside, so be prepared to walk or take a rickshaw for the final distance. ⪢ Local Transportation in Udaipur The best way to get around Udaipur is by rickshaw. The are super affordable and are a fun way to see the city. They are also fairly nimble in traffic so can be quicker than taxis too! Address: Haveli, opp. Gangaur Ghat Marg, Near Hotel, Old City, Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001, India Email: lokdharohar2022@gmail.com Contact: +91 9530469046 Website: lokdharohar.com RETURN TO CONTENTS Dharohar Folk Dance Show ticket information, opening times and entry requirements ⪢ Ticket outlets You are able to purchase online (website link below), or at the ticket booth just outside of the museum entrance, to the left of the gate that leads to Lak Pichola (see YouTube video). ⪢ Admission ● Domestic / Indian Adults: ₹90 ● Domestic / Indian Children: ₹45 ● Camera fee (locals): ₹50 ● Foreign Adults: ₹150 / £1.42 / $2.45 CAD / $1.80 ● Foreign Children: ₹75 / £0.71 / $1.22 CAD / $0.90 ● Camera fee (foreigners): ₹150 Prices stated are correct as of April 2024, but are subject to change at anytime. See the link below for the most up-to-date information. Book tickets online: lokdharohar.com/booking ⪢ Opening hours The Bagore ki Haveli Museum is open from 9:30am to 5:30pm everyday. The Dharohar Dance Show is held between 6pm to 7pm everyday. The onsite ticket booth is open from 4.30pm. ⪢ Best time to visit The show is typically busy on most days but the best time should be during the week. It also sells out quickly, so if you are planning on buying the tickets when you get there, try to aim for 5pm. RETURN TO CONTENTS Dharohar Folk Dance on YouTube Watch our dance show experience on our YouTube channel, Jenn and Leon Travel. In this video, we share our full experience in Udaipur. First we show you our first ever hostel stay, which we absolutely loved. We also tasted McDonalds in India for the VERY FIRST TIME, and take an incredible auto rickshaw ride that had the BEST music speakers, all the way to the ultra modern shopping mall NEXUS CELEBRATION MALL in central Udaipur. You will find the dance show at 11:20 at the Bagore Ki Haveli, just after we enjoyed a beautiful lakeside sunset. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures please do like and subscribe! Your support truly is invaluable to us and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Save for later: India Bus travel goes WRONG: we take a $170 Grab across Rajasthan and are shocked by what we see Our Sindhi Camp Bus Stand nightmare, a wild ride in a $170 Grab and our SHOCK at the state of India's countryside. Find out why (with VIDEO). RETURN TO CONTENTS Our Dharohar Folk Dance Show experience rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Is there any better place to experience the magic of traditional folk dance in Udaipur? Well if there is, it would have to be exceptional to top this. The Dharohar is hugely popular, attracting attention from all over India and beyond for good reason. The setting in the the 250 year-old Bagore Ki Haveli adds to the drama and purpose of this beautiful show, that packs so much in to just one hour. Sitting around on the perimeter benches, or on the floor, this places oozes history and the acoustics of the old courtyard are magic. Such a fun activity that is super affordable, and offers a real insight into the traditions and culture of this incredible region of India. RETURN TO CONTENTS Coming up: A trip to Nexus Celebration Mall, and our final thoughts on Udaipur before heading to Amritsar If you have seen our recent Philippines series on YouTube, you will know that we very much started to enjoy checking out malls - unsurprising given that the Philippines is the mall capital of the world. So we thought we would give a mall in India a try, and found Nexus Celebration Mall. As with everything in India, it was a unique experience in its own way. We try McDonalds for the first time in India, which insanely has no beef, and we are also approached to take part in a video shoot for an Instagram creator. We then bid farewell to the city of lakes, sharing our final thoughts of what was a lovely stay overall in Udaipur. We had recovered from our illnesses, made friends and had a great time. With our time in India drawing to a close, we reflect on our experiences so far and let you know what we really think of the Golden Triangle. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our India Series There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with our India series here on Jenn and Leon Travel Blog. If you follow us on Instagram, you can join our broadcast channel for our latest updates including our posts. You will also find us on YouTube, and we can't wait to share some epic footage with you over there! Last, but most certainly not least, you can simply subscribe to our blog right here, and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. RETURN TO CONTENTS Your interactive map of Northern India Check out all of the places we visited in India courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your GUIDE to visiting India First time in India? Check out our comprehensive guide with all you need to know including our latest posts, must-see places, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, connectivity, visa information, useful links and much more!

Easily our worst experience in India, the Sindhi Camp Bus Stand will haunt us for many years to come. The most chaotic of situations led us to missing our bus, and having to substitute it with a very dilapidated Grab for a SEVEN HOUR drive from Jaipur to Udaipur in Rajasthan. We left the Sindhi Camp Bus Stand with our shoes and luggage covered in muck, our heads banging from the noise and our moods thoroughly dampened from missing our bus. It was impossible to find, or to find anyone to help, and we were now faced with getting a Grab instead. No chance of finding another bus online, and even if there was, there was no way in hell we were going back to that bus stand! This is our experience, which actually starts off with a super cool Sari Draping, before it all goes horribly wrong! Thank you for stopping by, and a warm welcome to our India series here on Jenn & Leon Travel Blog. We had always wanted to visit this country, officially the 7th oldest in the world, and not only was the time finally upon us, but it came with our good friends and fellow Youtuber's Jackson and Marjo! If you missed our earlier posts and would like to catch up, head over to our dedicated INDIA page or look out for the links in this blog. Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here for more information. Save 5% off on your 1st hotel booking on the Klook app PROMO CODE: HotelOnApp Jenn and Marjo's Sari Draping From Jenn's perspective: One of the things I knew I wanted to experience while in India was a traditional saree draping. Having known only little about the cultural associations with the colour, styles etc I was looking forward to learning more. While the experience that we chose left me with more questions than answers and not having the pleasure of choosing from different colours patterns and styles the little we did learn was enjoyable. The time and care that is taken to dress and fasten the sari is incredible right down to the last fold! I’m not usually one to dress in bright colours or have an overly feminine style but the instant this material and method was draped upon me I felt this instant pulling back of my shoulders. My head held up a little higher. It felt like getting ready for your wedding day and many women dress this way daily! I definitely would encourage you to add this to your itinerary and make some time to get dressed up, take some photos and possibly head out for a night on the town while in India! For more info on this Sari Draping in Jaipur check out Trip Advisor. Read more: All Seasons Homestay: A beautiful and convenient Jaipur hotel A 3-star homestay that really feels like so much more! This beautiful hotel is in a great location and is themed on the six seasons in India. RETURN TO CONTENTS Getting tickets with Red Bus Booking tickets for trains and busses in India is available online for foreigners, and can be done while out of the country. There are several websites offering this, with the best being those provided by Red Bus and IRTC (Indian Railway Catering & Tourism Corporation). As far as pros go, the ability to book online is about as far as it goes for us. Everything about out our experience with these companies was poor, from the useability of the website to the confirmation of where to go. Let's go through why that is, so hopefully your journey with them does not end up in disaster like ours! To start, one of the things you must do as a foreigner with IRTC is to register yourself on their platform, which is very buggy to say the least. Uploading ID's was tricky and they seem to require quite a few details about you, enough to make us question why! Once signed up, finding the correct bus is pretty straight-forward, until you come to pay. One thing to be sure of in India is that seeing a 'Mastercard' or 'Visa' logo does not always mean it will be accepted. We actually use Curve, an online card that has worked all over the world, yet here it did not. After much kerfuffle we managed to push the payment through, but it was not easy. After completing this process you will be sent a confirmation email and tickets. All good then right? Well we thought so, feeling nice and organized, and dare we say even galvanized after our first train experience on the Vande Baharat Express went so well. But they do say not to count your chickens until they have hatched and it is an expression that works very well here. Little did we know, but the tickets would not be worth the energy it took to even send the email! RETURN TO CONTENTS Sindhi Camp Bus Stand Jaipur: an absolute nightmare With our bus scheduled to leave at 5am, we did not exactly have much margin for error when it came to finding the bus in the morning. The information on the ticket was simply 'Sindhi Camp Bus Stand'. After checking it out on Google it all seemed pretty legit, a large bus station which was just a short rickshaw ride from our homestay. Nonetheless we asked our hotel for more information, and they told us that this was the place to go. Having already taken a bus from Agra to Jaipur, we were prepared for the pick-up point to be a tad unassuming; the last spot was literally a small hut which we never would have guessed but for a knowledgeable rickshaw driver. This time around we were going to a proper bus station (or so we thought). What actually greeted us was one of our lowest points in all of India. A place of chaos and dare we say it filth, this so-called transport hub is the last place anyone should be at 4.30am in the morning. It was awful. Honestly. We did not film much at all, as our time here quickly descended into farce. Getting dropped off was the only part that went to plan as we got there around 40 minutes before the bus was due to depart. We thought it would be as simple as asking someone, a guard or a bus driver, but little did we know that our ticket would mean nothing here. The first thing to say about this 'bus stand' is that it goes way beyond the parking lot that bears its name. Buses and coaches are actually everywhere on the road too, lining the underpass, accompanied by hundreds of rickshaws and taxis all tooting horns and nipping into any free space of road. The acoustics reverberate around this underpass, and honking is a staple custom of any vehicle operator in India. It does not stop. EVER. We started by asking one 'guard' where to go, showing him our ticket. Go straight down there, leave the station, walk 100 metres and then to the left he says. So off we go, actually believing that this could be trusted. But it was wrong, along with the 4 other spots we were suggested to wait by people who looked like they had some semblance of understanding of the chaos all around us. Walking around on these 'streets' with roller suitcases and flip flops is not something we would advise anyone who reads this to do. Most of the walkways are broken, full of trip hazards, dirt and trash. It must have rained because the ground was wet, sludgy and smelly. Many of the coaches were just left running, and along with the hundreds of cars and tuk-tuks the air was thick with exhaust fumes. This accompanied the stale smell of trash, urine and faeces that was also present and evident anytime you we even looked at a wall or corner of a building. Just trying to cross the road was playing with fire. It was hard to breathe or even concentrate as we frantically tried to locate this damn bus before 5am. It didn't happen. We did try calling the 'helplines', indeed several of them, but no-one seemed to have any clue as to how to locate the bus. Apparently, the operator is supposed to send a text message to customers with the pick up point at least 12 hours before the journey is scheduled. However, as a foreigner, when we booked our tickets we did not have an Indian phone number, which happens to be the only way they can message. Not that they tell you this online before you book the tickets of course. Surely they can do better than this?? So without this number, the people on the phone washed their hands of it. We had as much back and forth with them on the phone as we did with the people who kept sending us traipsing around this station. We were on our own, and the longer we stood here within this disorganized mess, the worse it was going to get. By this point in our tale we had actually been walking around in circles for nearly 45 minutes, dragging ourselves and our luggage through the dirt, and the rain that was now starting to fall. We (we were with Jackson & Marjo too) could barely hear ourselves through the honking, which just reverberated around the steel underpass like a percussion instrument going off deep inside your ear. We had very persistent beggars coming up to us, people staring, others trying to coax us into taxis and rickshaws. 5am, no bus, no coffee, surrounded by madness. All we could do is get back to the peace and safety of our homestay as soon as possible. We love to travel, and we can handle mishaps, but this was pushing us way past our limits. RETURN TO CONTENTS Our $170 Grab experience We were all so very relieved to get back to the homestay. It was still quiet, and we knew we had time to re-assess given our check out was not until 11am. We had a few possibilities on the table, from staying another night to booking another bus, or getting a Grab. The Grab option seemed to be the most suitable given what we had just been through. None of us wanted to step foot near the Sindhi Camp station again, and so this was all we had. Fortunately we were splitting the bill! One of the bonuses about travelling as two couples! We contemplated waiting but eventually decided to just order the taxi and get going. We knew we had a long drive ahead of us. Given we had already experienced a fair few packed cars and rikshaws owing to our luggage, Jenn was sure to order a 6-seater bucket-seat passenger van, so we could be as comfortable as possible. But again, as with much of India, this did not exactly work out either! The car itself was not as described. At all. It was more like a 5-seat saloon, and was as rough on the outside as it was on the inside. Three in the back, tightly packed with some very uncomfortable seats, one in the front with some kind of fluid dripping from the glove box and a driver who spent most of the drive trying to keep himself awake by watching YouTube. Yes YouTube in his lap... and it was not even our channel! Just kidding, but seriously, given the state of India's highways and the incredibly dangerous driving habits of road users, we were not feeling too happy as we set off from the All Seasons. With most of us still feeling fragile from our gastro issues, barring Jenn, we were all nodding on and off for most of the journey. It seemed like the best way to get through it, and we were all devoid of energy given the lack of food we had eaten in the past week. Sadly for Jenn, she is not easily able to sleep in vehicles, and so she had to endure the reckless driving of our Grab more than any one of us. She was sat just behind him, watching him drift off or look down at his phone. It was very unnerving, even if he did breeze through herds of cows like he had been doing it his whole life. We had been warned about dodgy drivers, so we were naturally paranoid (when we weren't sleeping). Not just Jenn, but we all felt it. The guy seemed off. But given we had no other way to get to Udaipur, we had to suck it up. Despite the lack of comfort and safety considerations from the driver, we did see an upside though in that at the very least we could get a closer look at the Indian countryside and smaller towns. We love this kind of thing and it is a good way to see what otherwise we would most likely never would. And we were shocked by what we saw. Read more: Taj Mahal: Pictures, history, where to stay and how to get tickets Plan your visit to one of the world's Seven Wonders. Uncover the history of this iconic monument, our hotel recommendation & ticket info. RETURN TO CONTENTS Shocked by India's rural countryside We have often heard India referred to as a rich country with poor people. Indeed the stats do not lie, in fact, in the case of India they are quite extraordinary. Consider that in 2023 India overtook China as the most populated country on Earth. India now houses over 1.4 billion people, and with it, has become the world's 4th largest economy (worth over $4 trillion). So how has it come to pass that it ranks a shocking 139th in the world for GDP per capita? How has a country with over 5,000 years of history, the 7th oldest in terms of formed government, and with wealth beyond the dreams of many, failed its people so badly? We are seasoned travelers and we have visited many countries with the 'developing' title to their name. We certainly aren't ones to judge poverty of one place over the other, but honestly what we saw in India shocked us to the core. It literally felt like we were walking around in a post-war world. In the near 8 hours it took to get to Udaipur, we can barely remember seeing a building that was not abandoned or in the process of crumbling to the ground. The air was a constant orange haze, and with no sidewalks to speak of swirls of dust and dirt were all that stood between roads, highways, houses and stalls. Where there had been rain, it all became a muddy mess and on top of that there was more garbage on the streets than anywhere we had ever seen. And some (with no exaggeration). It was like there were mini-landfills on street corners, coupled with random piles of rubble, and oddly bricks, all over the place. Mounds of orange bricks often accompanied derelict or crumbling places, but these piles showed their age, as if they had been placed long ago. Homelessness seemed rampant and the scene just seemed all so apocalyptic. This seemed like a landscape lacking in hope, devoid of any kind of prosperity. There are many reasons for this, easily found with a couple of google searches. Corruption, lack of education, lack of local governance, over-population, political turmoil. The list goes on. Even colonialism can be put in there. All of it has contributed to the current status-quo. We just could not help think just how bad it is though. It almost felt like a hundred years behind what we see in Europe or the Americas. It might all sound a little harsh but we saw it all and felt it all with an extremely heavy heart and almost anger. How on earth has it got to this? 14 of the top 20 most polluted cities in the world are in India. 39 in the top 50. This is a shambles, a failure of governance, a failure of people and leaders who should be doing far more for the citizens they are supposed to protect and serve. Basic roads, infrastructure and facilities are the job of government and India is failing. 7 hours of driving and not a single public restroom, or indeed even a proper service station. Just in general there seems like so little is being done here. We barely noticed construction of any sort, and it all just looks so bleak. With all the fanfare of holding the G20, and with some of the highest poll ratings of any sitting PM, India's Narendra Modi does seem to be making progress. We can only hope so, because what we saw from a country with such size and power should be an outrage. We hope India will get to grips with things soon. The people deserve no less from their leaders. RETURN TO CONTENTS Watch it all unfold on YouTube See a more personal version of our experience over on YouTube! We show you more of the car and the journey, along with a sneak peak of our final destination, Dreamyard Udaipur. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures please do like and subscribe! Your support truly is invaluable to us and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! RETURN TO CONTENTS Coming up: Dreamyard Hostel, our first EVER hostel experience in the City of Lakes, Udaipur We have always been apprehensive when it comes to hostels. More so a Leon thing than a Jenn thing, and as such, we had never tried one. So many travelers do though and they are far more affordable, and come with much more than just a cheap price. Another great advantage is the social one, and here at the Dreamyard Hostel we found that for sure. We had such a wonderful time here, albeit we did book a private room with our own bathroom! For a first ever hostel stay it was great, we met some good people, had some fun game nights and awesome conversations. It was quirky and cool, and we really enjoyed it. We had a few of our best nights here! Welcome to Dreamyard Hostel Udaipur; all you need to know with our full review. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our Blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram, you can join our broadcast channel for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog, and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your interactive map of Northern India Check out all of the places we visited in India's Golden Triangle courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android. It is super easy to use and has a whole raft of really useful features including destination and itinerary suggestions, hotel recommendations, guides and maps. For even more convenience Wanderlog can also scan your email inbox and automatically import flight and hotel bookings, so you can have everything you need in one place (our favorite feature). It even works offline too! We highly recommend checking it out. Download Wanderlog here. RETURN TO CONTENTS Your GUIDE to visiting India First time in India? Check out our comprehensive guide with all you need to know including our latest posts, must-see places, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, connectivity, visa information, useful links and much more!

The All Seasons Homestay is a warmly furnished guesthouse offering home-cooked meals, a garden, and roof terraces with a 360 view of Jaipur. It is located in a quiet area and is a great place to relax and unwind, or to use as a base for exploring the Pink City. Jaipur is known as "The Pink City" due to the dominant color scheme of its buildings. In 1876, Maharaja Ram Singh had most of the buildings painted pink—the color of hospitality—in preparation for a visit by Britain's Queen Victoria. The tradition of painting buildings pink has continued ever since, and today Jaipur is a vibrant and colorful city that is well worth a visit. It has become a popular tourist destination and we think the All Seasons Homestay is both an attractive and affordable spot that you shouldn't miss out on! Read on to find out why! Thank you for stopping by, and a warm welcome to our India series here on Jenn & Leon Travel Blog. We had always wanted to visit this country, officially the 7th oldest in the world, and not only was the time finally upon us, but it came with our good friends and fellow Youtuber's Jackson and Marjo! If you missed our earlier posts and would like to catch up, head over to our dedicated INDIA page or look out for the links in this blog. Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here for more information. Save 5% off on your 1st hotel booking on the Klook app PROMO CODE: HotelOnApp Getting to All Seasons Homestay: The bus from Agra to Jaipur, checking out the local area and finding a pharmacy Before we get stuck in to the review of All Seasons Homestay, feel free to check out our YouTube video! After Jenn sadly missed out on a visit to the Taj Mahal in Agra due to travellers diarrhea (see last post) we had a 5 hour bus ride to get through to Jaipur. We share the experience and some information on India bus travel, along with the process of buying the bus tickets. Once we arrived at All Seasons Jenn took a turn for the worst, so Leon went for a walk through the streets of Jaipur to find a pharmacy, which he eventually found after several attempts. He found some interesting locals along the way too! Enjoy the video, and please do subscribe if you want to see more from our travels. Many thanks in advance! Read more: A hotel 5 minutes away from the Taj Mahal with an EPIC rooftop view in Agra Just a five minute rickshaw ride away from the Taj, this is a very convenient location. But is it worth it? Our full review and highlights! RETURN TO CONTENTS Our All Seasons Homestay Review - a comfortable hotel with excellent service and spectacular decor! We were most looking forward to the All Seasons Homestay given its growing reputation and excellent location in Jaipur. We have not really visited many homestay's either, so we were certainly excited about trying something new too. Sadly for us we were not able to exactly enjoy this homestay, or even Jaipur itself, owing to bad cases of travellers diarrhea which seemed to hit its peak the moment we showed up. So much so that when we arrived, we could barely even check in as we were so desperate for a bathroom! We missed our arrival tour, and spent virtually all of our first night and day in our room. We did try to have a bite to eat, but with everything going on, we weren't that hungry. After collecting medication and spending a good period of time recuperating, we were finally able to get out of the room and check this place out. What a wonderful place it is too! Themed on the six seasons of India, each floor and room is named and decorated on which season it represents. India has a wide range of climates and weather patterns due to its geographic size and varied topography. The year is divided into six seasons of two-month duration each. These seasons are Vasant Ritu (Spring), Grishma Ritu (Summer), Varsha Ritu (Monsoon), Sharad Ritu (Autumn), Hemant Ritu (Pre-Winter) and Shishir Ritu (Winter). The concept is really neat and the owners have done an exceptional job of conveying this with a unique blend of traditional and modern motifs and decorations. Everything feels very local here; Rajasthani designs and paintings adorning the walls and ceilings with such color and style. Even with a dampened enthusiasm given our issues, we were really impressed and felt very much at home. Every floor seems to have something interesting, be it colored glass windows or cool paintings and sitting areas. There are so many picturesque opportunities here and it would have been a great place for a photo shoot. We had kind of planned that although it did not happen in the end, as we spent most of our time in our room. Now all we can do is imagine what could have been! Given that we already had a couple of accommodations not exactly live up to their billing, we were really hoping that this one would hit the mark when it came to all of our parameters such as cleaning, facilities, location, value-for-money etc. We are pleased to say it did! Rated as a 3-star, we would go as far to say that it deserves at least one higher than that. Let's dig a little deeper to find out why... ⪢ The Location A key selling point here is the excellent location in Jaipur. If you are here for some sightseeing, Jaipur sits in the famous Golden Triangle and the All Seasons Homestay sits basically in the middle of the top sights in the Pink City. Sadly we were unable to even start our itinerary in Jaipur, and devastatingly missed out on all of the attractions here. Nonetheless, here is a list of places we would have visited, and how close they are to All Seasons Homestay by car / rickshaw: ● Amber Fort - 4 minutes ● Hawa Mahal Palace - 20 minutes ● Jaigarh Fort - 45 minutes ● Nahargarh Fort - 45 minutes ● Gaitore Jaipur - 20 minutes ⪢ The cost At $42 CAD per night, the All Seasons Homestay is a steal in our opinion! Given its convenient location, beautiful furnishings and on-site kitchen, it has everything you could need and is very affordable. This is an excellent 3-star accommodation that could easily be a 4-star and is one of the best value hotels in the area. 3 night cost: $126 CAD / $91.81 USD / £73.70 ** prices quoted are at time of writing (April 2024) and are subject to change at any time. ⪢ Rooftop Terraces All Seasons Homestay boasts no less than three terraces, each with their own appeal. The first terrace has lovely seating areas for chilling and relaxing, the second a gym, foosball table and library, and the third, a beautiful panoramic view of the city. Again we had booked this homestay with these terraces in mind and we were fully expecting to enjoy them with our friends Jackson and Marjo! It was another disappointing aspect of our time in Jaipur, only getting to enjoy these spaces in a fleeting moment before rushing back to the bathroom. They are all very nicely put together though and it is a shame we never got to play games and enjoy the evenings here. But we are sure you will, should you book this homestay! ⪢ Inside All Seasons Homestay There are plenty of 'wow' moments to be had inside the homestay. This feels like India! Beautifully and carefully decorated with local and regional traditions in mind, each floor is colorful and vibrant from wall to ceiling. We enjoyed exploring it and we have to note that it was spotlessly clean too. With so much to look at across five floors it is worth spending time here for the decor alone! ⪢ The front gardens & security Located at the front of the property, the well-manicured garden still feels very private owing to a wall topped with some beautiful trellis. Lush and green, with places to sit and admire the plants and greenery, it certainly does not feel like you are in a city when you step inside. It is lovely and quiet too! A really good space to relax and unwind for sure. The entrance is gated and there is a guardhouse here, although we never saw one. That being said the concierge is manned 24 hours and we believe the front gate is actually locked after 11pm. It does feel very secure here and there is also a local police station nearby for good measure. RETURN TO CONTENTS The food at All Seasons Homestay With a beautiful kitchen and dining area and a very attentive cooking staff, we know that the dining experience here would have been traditional, homely and delicious! Unfortunately we were unable to try much at all, as we were only just beginning to get our appetite back, and were sticking to basic foods that we could only hope would not bring on yet more excruciating stomach pains. The staff were well aware of our issues and were really understanding, allowing us to eat in the comfort of our room, and preparing some basic foods with the hope we would be able to digest it okay! It is with great sadness that we could not enjoy dining downstairs, where we would have really been able to immerse ourselves in the homestay style eating that All Seasons has made a USP of their establishment. One of our unique selling points is our home-cooked meals. Our kitchen prepares fresh and delicious dishes, offering a taste of authentic Rajasthani cuisine. Experience the flavors and aromas of home-cooked food made with love and care, providing a truly fulfilling dining experience. - allseasonshomestay.com These two simple photos are all the food we ate between us in the three days we spent here. They may seem fairly unassuming but they were still good, as far as basic foods go. There was not a menu as such, and the kitchen is open to preparing requests along with traditional dishes and suggestions. We hope you get to enjoy the full compliment of meals here and would love to hear of your experience! RETURN TO CONTENTS The Room at All Seasons Homestay Our room was on the second floor and was very comfortable. We spent most of our time in it as you may have gathered by now! Nice and spacious, it had all we needed. Mostly a good bed and strong WiFi, so we could work or watch movies while we focused on recovering. The bed was firm but nice and we had plenty of pillows which we always like to have. There is also a small wardrobe and a TV in this main room, but no mini-fridge or kettle. This can actually be found on each floor as a communal kitchen, of which is fully furnished and also has a basic compliment of tea and coffee which is a nice touch. There is also a microwave which we always like to have for heating up food and coffee. The bathroom is really nice and we particularly liked the stones that edged the floor. Along with the marble-style tiles and pastel colors it felt really natural and almost reminded us of the open bathrooms in Bali! Shower gel and shampoo is provided, along with a hairdryer which is always appreciated, especially as we try not to bring one to save on space and weight. The hot water and pressure is spot on too which is a great bonus (do not always assume this to be the case in India!) Read more: Taj Mahal: Pictures, history, where to stay and how to get tickets Plan your visit to one of the world's Seven Wonders. Uncover the history of this iconic monument, our hotel recommendation & ticket info. RETURN TO CONTENTS How to find All Seasons Homestay Jaipur The distance from Jaipur Central Bus Station to All Seasons Homestay is 3.5 km along Hathroi Fort, Hari Kishan Somani Marg, Ajmer Road, behind Vidhayakpuri Police Station. It should take 46 minutes to get there by transit. See the directions here. The distance from Jaipur Train Station to All Seasons Homestay is shorter, at 1.2 km. It should take 17 minutes to get there by transit. See the directions here. ⪢ Contact Information Address: 63, Hathroi Fort, Hari Kishan Somani Marg, Behind Vidhayakpuri Police Station, Ajmer road, Jaipur 302001, Rajasthan, India Email: ranjana@allseasonshomestayjaipur.com | ranjanagoel9@gmail.com Contact Numbers: Bina Goel +91-98291-61369 Ranjana Goel +91-94603-87055 Dinesh Goel +91-94140-41553 Land line +91-141-2369443 Website / booking: allseasonshomestayjaipur.com Instagram: @allseasonshomestay Facebook: @allseasonshomestay RETURN TO CONTENTS Our All Seasons Homestay experience ratings ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Even without being able to take full advantage of all the All Seasons Homestay has to offer, we are still rating this accommodation 5 stars! Based on what we experienced, we doubt you will get much better bang for your buck than this. A great homestay with lovely people, you will be missing out if you do not try it! Check out the All Seasons Homestay on YouTube If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures please do like and subscribe! Your support truly is invaluable to us and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! RETURN TO CONTENTS Coming up: Jenn & Marjo go for a Sari Draping in Jaipur, and our journey to Udaipur almost becomes a disaster We were both still feeling pretty unwell when we made it to the All Seasons Homestay. Most grateful for the medication we found and our comfortable surroundings, it made for a great place to recover. By the end of our stay we were feeling much better, although very sad that we were unable to explore Jaipur at all. It was a sad predicament to be in, as honestly we do not know if we will ever make it back to the Pink City. We had not really seen anything but the inside of our room and a short tour of the building, and we really felt like we needed at least something to stand for our time here. Cue a Sari Draping session, something which Jenn was really keen on doing prior to us even coming to India. So off Jenn and Marjo went, with Leon as the cameraman! The following day we had a long bus ride pre-booked to Udaipur. We were more worried about our tummies the day before, but little did we know that was to be the least of our concerns. With it leaving at 5am we had been scheduled for pick up from the Sindhi Camp Bus Stand, which turned out to be one of the worst experiences we have ever had on our travels. Stay tuned! RETURN TO CONTENTS How to follow our Blog There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with Jenn and Leon Travel. If you follow us on Instagram, you can join our broadcast channel for our latest updates and posts. You will also find us on YouTube of course, or you can simply subscribe to our blog, and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. It is that easy! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your interactive map of Northern India Check out all of the places we visited in India courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android. It is super easy to use and has a whole raft of really useful features including destination and itinerary suggestions, hotel recommendations, guides and maps. For even more convenience Wanderlog can also scan your email inbox and automatically import flight and hotel bookings, so you can have everything you need in one place (our favorite feature). It even works offline too! We highly recommend checking it out. Download Wanderlog here. RETURN TO CONTENTS Your GUIDE to visiting India First time in India? Check out our comprehensive guide with all you need to know including our latest posts, must-see places, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, connectivity, visa information, useful links and much more!

In the heart of northern India, where the Yamuna River winds its way through the historic city of Agra, stands a testament to love that has transcended centuries. A masterpiece of marble, a symbol of eternal romance, and a jewel in the crown of architectural wonders – the Taj Mahal is more than just a monument; it's a living chronicle etched in white stone. Taj Mahal beckons visitors from across the globe to immerse themselves in its timeless allure. Join us as we unravel the history, facts, and spellbinding beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. A journey into the heart of a monument that needs no introduction, and deserves all the admiration. Thank you for stopping by, and a warm welcome to our India series here on Jenn & Leon Travel Blog. We had always wanted to visit this country, officially the 7th oldest in the world, and not only was the time finally upon us, but it came with our good friends and fellow Youtuber's Jackson and Marjo. If you missed our earlier posts and would like to catch up, head over to our dedicated INDIA page or look out for the links in this blog. Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links. Tap here for more information. Our Taj Mahal highlights When we initially booked our tickets we had hoped to visit the Taj on the Friday as we were due to take a bus to Jaipur on the Saturday. We then found out that it was closed on Friday's, meaning we would have to see it on Saturday morning, with our bus scheduled for 2pm. So we were kind of forced into the sunrise slot, of which we did not mind at all. That being said, we could not have possibly foreseen the gastro issues we suffered while in Agra, making that 5am start supremely difficult. We suspect we were being hit by a severe bout of food poisoning, and for those of you who have experienced this, you will know that being close to a bathroom is just about all you can do about that. Judging by the state of us both on the Friday, the chances of making it to the Taj at 5am on the Saturday was very slim. With no food and only water for company, our energy was low, and our need for consistent bathroom breaks was as infuriating as it was necessary. Most unfortunately, when the time came and our alarms went off, Jenn was still completely incapacitated with severe piercing abdominal pain. The same can be said for Leon, although he was feeling a little stronger. Despite the pain we knew we could not both miss out. It's the frickin Taj Mahal! One of our biggest reasons for coming to India was to see this famous mausoleum and we just couldn't bail on it. With Jenn's situation looking pretty dire, Leon had to take up the baton and gingerly made it outside to meet a now recovered Jackson and Marjo (Jackson had also been severely sick but got hit a couple of days before us). In case you did not know, you are able to use Uber in India to call a rickshaw, so we did that, hopped in and headed over to the East Gate. It only took 5 minutes from our hotel (Lucky Guesthouse, we highly recommend it). After saying good morning to a cow (yes, a cow in the road, check that out in our YouTube video) and waiting in line for a few minutes, the gates were opened at precisely 5.30am. The queue was really small when we arrived at just after 5am but by the time the gate opened it was very, very long. So our first tip is to get there as early as possible if you want to avoid missing the sun as it rises behind the Taj. The security at the Taj Mahal is pretty intense. Tickets must be presented with a valid ID, and there is a security check that resembles that of what you see at airports. Men and women are separated, all bags scanned and a body search conducted too. There are very strict rules on what can be brought in, with lighters, tripods and bags bigger than a small purse all prohibited. Only one professional camera per group can be brought in, and fortunately for us only Jackson had one of those, as Leon had left our Insta 360 back in the hotel (it is not great in low light so he opted for his phone). Once through security, we made our way through a long corridor before stepping out into the large walled courtyard, sandwiched between the main gate and the Taj Ganj. It was still pretty dark, and the anticipation was running high. In that moment, it was as if the gastro pains had drifted away. The great Taj was was almost upon us. Completely surrounded by pink stone walls, the main forecourt is immaculate and is very impressive. It houses the servant quarters and royal tombs, and of course the main gate to the Taj. The gate is another architectural marvel, and is as imposing as it is beautiful. The view of the Taj through its archway is absolutely spectacular, and no doubt you have seen that photo shot before! It was already getting pretty busy but the Taj is so mesmerizing that none of that matters. As soon as it enters the vision, it is hard to pull away. The allure is intense, and the desire to take photos and videos is almost as natural as breathing! After spending some time on the main Charbargh (Charbagh is a Persian and Indo-Persian quadrilateral garden layout based on the four gardens of Paradise mentioned in the Quran), we made our way to the lotus pool, which reflects the Taj in such an amazing way. The symmetry of it is pretty stunning and a huge credit to its builders. For some reason the fountain was not operational, but this did not take anything away. By this point the time was approaching 6.30am, and sadly the sky was so cloudy that the sun was unable to come through. Rain seemed to be on its way, and thus the hope for that epic sunrise had all but ended. That being said, it did contribute to it being slightly cooler, which was a welcome break from the intense heat we had been experiencing so far in India. After much filming, photographing and admiring, we made our way to the mausoleum entrance. The closer we got, the more spectacular the Taj Mahal became. Whilst not as sparkly white as it once was (owing to years of intense pollution in the area), it is still pretty phenomenal to look at and we can only imagine what a difference sunlight would have made. One thing that was quite surprising was the Masjid Mosque and Mehman Khana (library), which are built on either side of the Taj. Most of the photos that we have ever seen just show the Taj itself, and these structures, made of vibrant red brick are a wonder to look at themselves. The riverfront terrace on the Yamuna River behind the Taj is also incredible and perhaps these are the lesser talked about elements of the Taj that make for a very nice surprise. The mausoleum was also very interesting as prior to going in, we did not expect there to be Arabic writing adorning the walls of the tomb chamber. It was also quite small; much smaller than we anticipated. When going inside you are able to walk around the tomb area, which is hidden by ornate barriers, and then through a short passageway and out of the rear entrance overlooking the Yamuna River. As short as it is we would still recommend doing this, as stepping foot inside this mausoleum has to be one of the most surreal things any traveler can do! It is too good an opportunity to miss, just bear in mind you must book tickets in advance for this and cannot buy them on-site. All in all, even with stomach issues, no sun, and rain that started as we were leaving, this whole experience was brilliant and we would not change anything about it. If anything it made us appreciate being there even more. The Taj Mahal certainly has that wow factor and it is a true blessing to have ticked this one off the list! Read on for more on the history of the Taj Mahal, some interesting facts about it, how to get there, plus opening times and ticket information. RETURN TO CONTENTS The history of the Taj Mahal Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1632, and it took approximately 22 years to complete. The main mausoleum was completed in 1643, but the entire complex, including the gardens and other structures, was finished in 1653. The construction involved the efforts of over 20,000 workers and craftsmen from across the Mughal Empire and beyond. The Taj Mahal was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Mumtaz Mahal died during childbirth in 1631, and Shah Jahan was devastated by her death. In her memory, he decided to build a magnificent mausoleum.The Taj Mahal is often regarded as a symbol of eternal love for this reason. The story of Shah Jahan's love for Mumtaz Mahal and the exquisite beauty of the monument have contributed to its romantic reputation. The Taj Mahal is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, blending elements from Islamic, Persian, Ottoman Turkish, and Indian architectural styles. The principal architect is believed to be Ustad Ahmad Lahori. The white marble used in its construction was brought from the quarries of Makrana in Rajasthan. Shah Jahan ruled the Mughal Empire from 1628 to 1658. However, in his later years, he faced internal strife and was eventually deposed by his son Aurangzeb. Shah Jahan spent the last years of his life under house arrest in Agra Fort, where he could see the Taj Mahal from a distance. The Taj Mahal was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. It is recognized not only for its architectural beauty but also for its cultural and historical significance. Over the years, the Taj Mahal has faced challenges such as pollution, environmental degradation, and the effects of time. Conservation efforts, including restoration projects, have been undertaken to preserve this iconic monument. Save for later: A hotel 5 minutes away from the Taj Mahal with an EPIC rooftop view in Agra Just a five minute rickshaw ride away from the Taj, this is a very convenient location. But is it worth it? Our full review and highlights! RETURN TO CONTENTS Some Taj Mahal facts The Taj Mahal is a unique structure in so many ways, and much of the facts and interesting things about it have been well-documented over time. We have put together a few of them here for you; do you know them all? ⪢ Symmetrical Design: The Taj Mahal is renowned for its perfect symmetry. The four minarets surrounding the main dome are tilted slightly outward to prevent them from falling on the main structure in case of an earthquake. As a result, if you draw a line down the center of the monument, the Taj Mahal's components on one side mirror those on the other. ⪢ Changing Colors: The color of the Taj Mahal appears to change at different times of the day. It can appear pinkish in the morning, milky white in the evening, and golden when the moon shines. This phenomenon is due to the reflection of the sunlight on the white marble and the varying atmospheric conditions. ⪢ Inscribed Verses: The Taj Mahal is adorned with intricate calligraphy from the Quran, and the inscriptions include passages that speak of judgment and the afterlife. The calligraphy is skillfully integrated into the design, with the size of the letters appearing larger at the top and smaller at the bottom to create a uniform look to the viewer. ⪢ Mumtaz Mahal's Tomb: Contrary to the typical Mughal tradition, the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal is placed at the center of the Taj Mahal complex, whereas the tomb of Shah Jahan is later added next to hers. This departure from tradition highlights the extraordinary importance Shah Jahan placed on his beloved wife's memory. ⪢ Black Taj Mahal Myth: There is a popular myth that Shah Jahan planned to build a black marble Taj Mahal as his own tomb, located on the opposite bank of the Yamuna River. However, this claim lacks credible historical evidence. It is likely a romanticized addition to the Taj Mahal's story, adding an element of tragedy and symmetry. No substantial remains or archaeological evidence of a "Black Taj" have been found. ⪢ A tourist phenomenon: The Taj Mahal attracts over 10 million visitors annually, with more than 1 million visitors coming from overseas. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. ⪢ A religious divide: Many people believe that the Taj Mahal was originally a Hindu temple, despite it being built by a Muslim emperor. It underscores India’s polarization between Hindus and Muslims, and at one point a petition was filed seeking an inquiry from a fact-finding panel into the “real history” of the monument. The petitioner also urged the opening of 22 sealed rooms inside the Taj, for the possible presence of idols of Hindu gods inside. That being said, Islamic symbols adorn the inside of the mausoleum. Did you know them all? Let us know in the comments, or indeed if there are any other interesting facts you think we should add! Read on for details on how to get there, opening times and ticket prices, our experience rating, and our YouTube video! RETURN TO CONTENTS How to get to the Taj Mahal in Agra Getting to the Taj Mahal involves traveling to the city of Agra in the northern part of India. Here are the general steps to reach the Taj Mahal: ⪢ By Air The closest airport to Agra is the Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in New Delhi. From there, you can either take a direct flight to Agra's Kheria Airport (AGR), which is a domestic airport, or you can choose to travel by road or train from Delhi to Agra. ⪢ By Train Agra is well-connected by train. The city has four railway stations, with Agra Cantt being the main one. Trains from major cities across India, including Delhi, Jaipur, and Mumbai, connect to Agra. The train journey provides scenic views and is a popular mode of transportation. ⪢ By Road Agra is well-connected by road, and you can reach the city by bus, car, or taxi. The Yamuna Expressway connects Agra to Delhi, making it a convenient option for those traveling from the capital city. You can also hire a taxi or use intercity buses that operate from various nearby cities. ⪢ Local Transportation in Agra Once you reach Agra, you can hire local transportation options like auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, or taxis to get to the Taj Mahal. The monument is located near the city center, and transportation is readily available. Address: Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001, India Email: info@tajmahal.gov.in / agrauptourism@gmail.com Official contact no: +91 562-2226431 (10am to 5pm) / 0562-2421204 (6.30am to 9.30pm) Website: tajmahal.gov.in RETURN TO CONTENTS Taj Mahal ticket information, opening times and entry requirements ⪢ Ticket outlets If you choose not to buy online, you can get tickets at the Taj Mahal Western and Eastern Gates. The ticket counters are open one hour before sunrise, and up to 45 Minutes before Sunset. ⪢ Admission ● Domestic / Indian: ₹50 ● Foreigners: ₹1100 / £10.78 / $18.20 CAD / $13.19 ● Citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC Countries: ₹ 540 ● Mausoleum standard fee: ₹200 (all visitors) Prices are accurate at time of writing (April 2024) and are subject to change at any time. Please check the official website of the Taj Mahal for the most up-to-date information. ⪢ Book tickets online: asi.payumoney.com or asiagracircle.in ⪢ Opening hours The Taj Mahal opens 30 Minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes before sunset. It is open to tourists every day except for Friday's. ⪢ Best time to visit The number of visitors to the Taj Mahal can vary depending on the time of year, with the peak season being during the cooler months of October, November, and February. On busy days, the Taj Mahal can receive up to 40,000 visitors. Avoiding these months, going on a weekday, or attending at sunrise can be the best time to avoid crowds. Book a private tour and save money with Klook Explore the two most beautiful UNESCO World Heritage sites in India in the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort on a private tour with Klook. Learn about the iconic love story behind the 17th-century white marble mausoleum, and marvel at its design. Go on a “no-shopping” tour where you will not be taken to any unwanted places for shopping, unless requested. Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of India. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of the India. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience! RETURN TO CONTENTS Things to know before you visit the Taj Mahal Here are some important things to bear in mind before you visit. Note that there is no dress code as such, but it is advised to dress conservatively. ● Tickets bought online are not transferable. ● Entry Fee's are not refundable. ● E-ticket cancellations are not permitted. ● The Monument is open for visitors between sunrise and sunset only and is closed on Fridays for Islamic prayer. ● Visitors are required to show photo identity proof at the entry to the monument. A passport, driving licence or identity card is sufficient. ● Food and drinks are not allowed inside the monument. ● Inflammable/dangerous/explosive articles such as lighters and power banks are not permitted inside. ● The entry gates to the Taj Mahal are closed 30 minutes prior to the official closing time. ● Tickets are booked via morning or afternoon slots and are valid for only 3 hours from the time of entry. ● Searches are conducted on all visitors with strict restrictions on what is allowed inside. ● Selfie sticks with tripods are not permitted and only one camera / device is allowed per person or group. Bags larger than a small purse are required to be stored in lockers. ● If you have booked the mausoleum and would like to go inside you will be required to wear shoe covers, which are available at a small recess area outside the library building. This is directly opposite the mausoleum entrance gate. Save for later: Humayun's Tomb highlights, history and HI-FIVES in New Delhi The first ever garden tomb in India, this near 400 year old UNESCO Heritage site is the tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun. It was also said to be the inspiration for the Taj Mahal. We also share hi-fives with a literal train of children! RETURN TO CONTENTS Our Taj Mahal experience rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 What is there to critique about a wonder of the world? Certainly not much if anything at all. This is certainly one of the most spectacular places one can ever visit, and simply must be on any India tour or bucket list. Our time here in Agra was deeply affected by our gastro issues though which does take the gloss of a bit, especially as Jenn was unable to go at all. Thankfully in our world of photos and videos she was able to see it, at the very least, through Leon's eyes. And even with such misfortune, she was still able to catch a glimpse from the top of our hotel too, which in the end, is far better than nothing. RETURN TO CONTENTS Coming up: Taking the bus from Agra to an incredible homestay in the heart of Jaipur With Jenn sadly missing a visit to the Taj Mahal in Agra due to stomach issues (travellers diarrhea), we then had to embark on a FIVE HOUR bus ride to get to Jaipur. We share the experience and some information on India bus travel, along with the process of buying the bus tickets and where to go to get it. We will then review the incredible All Seasons Homestay, our first ever stay in this type of accommodation. Even with our bowel struggles, we try to make the best of it! This was actually one of our favorite places in all of our India travels, and we are sure you will agree! RETURN TO CONTENTS Follow our India Series There are lots of ways for you to stay up to date with our India series here on Jenn and Leon Travel Blog. If you follow us on Instagram, you can join our broadcast channel for our latest updates including our posts. You will also find us on YouTube, and we can't wait to share some epic footage with you over there! Last, but most certainly not least, you can simply subscribe to our blog right here, and we will drop our latest posts straight into your email inbox. RETURN TO CONTENTS Your interactive map of Northern India Check out all of the places we visited in India courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more. Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends. It is super handy and has made a big impact on our travel planning. It saves time and is super easy to use! RETURN TO CONTENTS The Taj Mahal on YouTube Watch Leon's full Taj Mahal experience on our YouTube channel, Jenn and Leon Travel. With Jenn still bed-ridden, Leon heads to the Taj with Jackson and Marjo at 5am to see the sunrise, despite still feeling ill himself. Sadly the sunrise did not materialize due to the weather, but regardless this monument is still as spectacular as ever. If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures please do like and subscribe! Your support truly is invaluable to us and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! RETURN TO CONTENTS Your GUIDE to visiting India First time in India? Check out our comprehensive guide with all you need to know including our latest posts, must-see places, and key information about health & safety, transport, local customs, connectivity, visa information, useful links and much more!