Pandaw Cruises in India – A Luxury River Journey

Pandaw Cruises offers unique small-ship expeditions across India’s most iconic rivers, combining luxury, cultural immersion, and scenic beauty. With its colonial-style vessels and intimate atmosphere, Pandaw has become a favorite for travelers seeking authentic river journeys. 

RV Kochi Pandaw India

Photo Credit: Pandaw River Cruises

Cruise Destinations & Pricing

1. Brahmaputra River (Assam): A 7-night expedition exploring Assam’s wilderness. Highlights include Kaziranga National Park jeep safaris, village visits, and spotting Gangetic dolphins.

• 7-night cruise ("The Brahmaputra")

  • From US$3,634.94 per person (main deck, twin sharing)

• 10-night "Full Brahmaputra" expedition

  • Starts at US$4,455 per person (all-inclusive with no single supplement)

• Combo: Brahmaputra + Kerala Backwaters (15 nights)

  • From US$9,483.83 per person

2. Ganges / Hooghly River (West Bengal): Explore the sacred Ganges with visits to ancient terracotta temples, riverside villages, and historic towns. Perfect for history and culture lovers.

• 9-night cruise ("The Hooghly Ganges")

  • Starts from US$3,148 per person (main deck, twin sharing)

3. Kerala Backwaters (Kochi): Launching in October 2025, the new Kochi Pandaw will offer 8-day cruises through Kerala’s tranquil lagoons, artisan villages, and beaches.

• Launching October 2025, 7-night circular cruise on the Kochi Pandaw

  • From US$4,950 to US$5,445 per person, depending on dates and cabin (twin sharing, upper availability)

Combo Cruises

Pandaw also offers longer combined journeys:

• Brahmaputra + Kerala Backwaters (15 nights): Wildlife expeditions in Assam paired with tropical relaxation in Kerala.

• Ganges + Kerala Backwaters (22 nights): From sacred temples in Bengal to serene houseboat-style backwaters.

Life Onboard

• Classic Design: Ships like the RV Katha Pandaw and RV Orient Pandaw feature teak wood interiors, spacious decks, and elegant colonial-style design.

• Dining & Comfort: Inclusive meals, regional specialties, free beverages, and onboard activities like cooking demonstrations and cultural lectures.

• Intimate Experience: With smaller vessels (14–30 cabins), guests enjoy a private-yacht-like feel, avoiding the crowds of larger cruises.

What's Included in the Price

• All meals, select beverages (local beer, spirits, wines), transfers, guided excursions, and onboard entertainment.

Price Comparison

Cruise Itinerary	Region	Duration	From (USD per person)
Brahmaputra Expedition	Assam	7 nights	US$3,635 (main deck, twin share)
Full Brahmaputra	Assam	10 nights	US$4,455
Hooghly Ganges Journey	West Bengal	9 nights	US$3,148 (main deck, twin share)
Kerala Backwaters	Kerala	7 nights	US$4,950–5,445
Combo: Brahmaputra + Kerala Backwaters	Assam + Kerala	15 nights	US$9,484

 Why Choose Pandaw?

Pandaw combines luxury with authenticity, offering travelers an immersive way to see India’s rivers. Guests often describe the journeys as feeling like a private yacht experience, enriched by deep cultural connections and personalized service. 

For more details visit :  Pandaw Cruises in India

check Cordelia's 3-Night Cruise from Vizag to Puducherry & Chennai

 

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Karma Parv Festival 2025 – Celebration of Nature and Culture

Karma Parv, also known as Karam Festival, is one of the most important tribal festivals of Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and West Bengal. Celebrated with devotion and joy, this festival honors Karam Devta, the god of youth, strength, and nature. In 2025, the festival will bring together communities once again to celebrate the harmony between humans and the environment. 

Karam Festival-Jharkhand

Significance of Karma Parv

Karma Parv is rooted in agrarian traditions and nature worship. The word Karam comes from the sacred Karam tree (Nauclea Parvifolia), which symbolizes fertility, prosperity, and life. The festival is a prayer for:

• Good harvests 

• Family well-being 

• Protection from misfortune 

It reflects the deep connection of tribal communities with forests and agriculture.

Rituals and Celebrations

• Karam Tree Branch Ritual: A branch of the sacred Karam tree is brought to the village and placed in the courtyard, symbolizing blessings from nature.

• Songs & Dances: Traditional folk songs and dances are performed around the Karam branch, especially by young men and women.

• Offerings: Grains, fruits, and local delicacies are offered to Karam Devta.

• Nightlong Festivities: The celebrations often continue with drum beats, cultural performances, and storytelling.

Karma Parv 2025 – Dates

• The festival usually falls on the 11th day of the lunar fortnight in the Bhadra month (August–September) as per the Hindu calendar.

• In 2025, Karma Parv is expected in September 03rd.

  

  Karam Festival-Jharkhand

   

Attractions for Visitors

If you are planning to witness Karma Parv 2025, here are the highlights:

• Colorful Tribal Dance Performances with traditional costumes and music.

• Community Feasts serving local cuisine.

• Cultural Tours in Jharkhand showcasing tribal art, crafts, and markets.

• Eco-Spiritual Experience centered on forest rituals and worship of nature.

Travel Tips

• The best places to experience Karma Parv are Ranchi, Hazaribagh, and Dumka in Jharkhand.

• Respect local customs and join the celebrations as a participant, not just a spectator.

• Carry light cotton clothes, comfortable footwear, and be ready for open-air festivities.

  Karma Parv is more than a festival; it’s a celebration of life, agriculture, and the bond between humans and nature. Visiting during this time offers a rare chance to see India’s tribal traditions in their most authentic and vibrant form. 

   

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Araku Valley by Vistadome Coach from Visakhapatnam

Nestled in the Eastern Ghats, Araku Valley is one of Andhra Pradesh’s most beautiful hill stations.Vistadome coach was introduced on the Visakhapatnam–Araku route, travelers can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of hills, tunnels, valleys, and waterfalls like never before. The glass-roofed coach with 360° swivel seats transforms a simple train ride into an unforgettable experience.Journey through 58 tunnels and 84 Bridges.

Araku Valley Vistadome Coach

Visakha Railway Station -vista coach

VSP-Araku Vistadome Coach

Train Route & Travel Time

• Train Route: Visakhapatnam → Simhachalam → Kottavalasa → Borra Caves → Araku Valley

• Total Distance: ~130 km

• Travel Time: Around 3.5 to 4 hours one way

• Highlights: 58 tunnels, 84 bridges, and scenic valleys throughout the Eastern Ghats

Vistadome Coach 

• Glass Roof & Wide Windows: Perfect for photography and sightseeing

• Rotatable Plush Seats: Can turn 360° for flexible viewing angles

• Observation Lounge: Large viewing area at the end of the coach

• Entertainment System: LCD screens and Wi-Fi-based infotainment

• Modern Amenities: Automatic sliding doors, bio-toilets, and comfortable interiors

Araku Valley Vistadome Coach inside

      Ticket Cost & Booking

• Fare (One-way): ₹750–₹950 per seat (approx., depending on class and season)

• Booking: Tickets available via IRCTC website, mobile app, or railway reservation counters

• Trains with Vistadome Coach: Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Express and special tourist trains

Tip: Book tickets at least 2–3 weeks in advance, especially during weekends and holiday seasons.

 Nearby Attractions in Araku

• Borra Caves: Stunning limestone caves with stalactites and stalagmites

• Tribal Museum: Showcasing Adivasi art, culture, and traditions

• Coffee Plantations: Famous for organic Araku coffee

• Katiki Waterfalls: A short trek leads to this scenic waterfall

• Padmapuram Gardens: Beautifully landscaped gardens with tree-top huts



Araku Railway Station

Accommodation 

• Luxury: Haritha Hill Resort (APTDC), private resorts in Araku

• Mid-range: Budget hotels and homestays near the valley

• Unique Stay: Tree huts and eco-tourism cottages for a rustic experience

Traveling from Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley in the Vistadome coach is more than a train ride—it’s a visual spectacle through the heart of the Eastern Ghats. With rolling hills, tribal culture, coffee aromas, and nature’s beauty at every turn, this journey is a must-do for every traveler.

Check details of Indian Railways Round Trip Package

Witness spectacular Hot Air Ballon Festival Araku 

 

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Mungmung Festival: A Celebration of Culture and Faith

The Mungmung Festival is one of the most important cultural and religious festivals celebrated by the Sangtam Naga tribe of Nagaland. Marking the beginning of the harvest season, it is a vibrant expression of gratitude, community bonding, and faith. With a blend of rituals, traditional music, dance, and feasts, the festival showcases the deep connection between the Sangtam people and their agricultural roots.The word “Mongmong” meaning “Togetherness Forever”. 

MungmungFestival

 Representative image: MungmungFestival: (Ministry of DoNER, Govt of India) 

Significance of Festival

• Agricultural Gratitude: Mungmung is observed to thank the divine for a bountiful harvest and to seek blessings for future prosperity.

• Cultural Identity: It strengthens tribal unity and preserves the customs passed down through generations.

• Spiritual Practices: Sacred rituals are performed to ward off evil and ensure health, peace, and happiness within the community.

Traditions and Celebrations

• Rituals: Performed by village elders and priests, these include prayers, offerings, and purification ceremonies.

• Folk Music & Dance: Traditional songs accompanied by drums and folk dances are performed in colorful tribal attire.

• Community Feast: Families and neighbors share food prepared from freshly harvested crops, symbolizing unity and abundance.

• Games & Social Gatherings: Indigenous sports, storytelling, and youth gatherings add to the festival’s lively atmosphere.

Festival Dates

The Mungmung Festival is celebrated every year in the first week of September, with the main festivities observed on September 1st. It coincides with the agricultural calendar of the Sangtam Nagas and the readiness of crops for harvest.

Day-by-Day Schedule

While the exact schedule may vary by village, a typical Mungmung Festival spans several days of activities:

• Day 1 – Preparations & Rituals: Villagers clean homes, perform purification rituals, and prepare offerings. Elders lead prayers for prosperity and protection from evil.

• Day 2 – Folk Dances & Music: Colorful cultural performances begin with traditional songs, dances, and drum beats that bring the community together.

• Day 3 – Community Feast: Families prepare dishes from newly harvested crops. Everyone gathers to share meals symbolizing unity and abundance.

• Day 4 – Indigenous Games & Youth Gatherings: Wrestling, traditional sports, and storytelling sessions are organized, encouraging youth participation and social bonding.

• Day 5 – Thanksgiving & Closing Rituals: Elders perform final prayers of gratitude, seeking blessings for the future harvests, followed by closing celebrations.

The Mungmung Festival is more than just a harvest celebration—it is a reaffirmation of faith, heritage, and the unbreakable bond between people, nature, and spirituality. For visitors, it offers a glimpse into the colorful traditions of Nagaland and the enduring spirit of the Sangtam tribe.

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Hyderabad’s Artificial Beach: A Coastal Getaway in the City

Hyderabad is set to redefine urban leisure with its first-ever artificial beach — which  brings coastal vibes to the heart of the city. Imagine walking on golden sands, splashing in a wave pool, or enjoying adventure sports — all without leaving Hyderabad. 

Hyderabad’s Artificial Beach

Slated to come up at Kotwal Guda, this ₹225 crore project will cover 35 acres and offer locals and tourists a seaside escape without the need to drive to Visakhapatnam, Goa, or Chennai.

Location and Accessibility

• Site: Kotwal Guda, near Outer Ring Road, Hyderabad

• Area: 35 acres of beach-style development

• Connectivity: Easily accessible by road from all parts of Hyderabad, making it a convenient weekend getaway

Attractions and Highlights

1. Artificial Beach & Wave Pool

The centerpiece will be a man-made lake lined with soft sand, along with a wave pool to replicate the ocean experience.

2. Adventure & Thrill Sports

Visitors can look forward to:

• Bungee jumping

• Sailing & water sports

• Skating zones

• Even winter-themed activities for variety!

3. Leisure and Relaxation

The project will feature:

• Cycling tracks

• Parks & play areas

• Scenic fountains & open-air theatres

4. Luxury Stays and Food Courts

For those seeking a staycation:

• Floating villas & luxury hotels are part of the plan

• Food courts, beach shacks, and cafés will cater to every taste

Eco-Friendly Design

The beach is not just about entertainment but also sustainability. Authorities promise:

• Eco-friendly materials

• Water conservation & recycling systems

• Efficient waste management

This ensures Hyderabad enjoys its beach vibes while staying environmentally responsible. 

Why It Matters

• Convenience: No need to drive 600+ km to the nearest natural beach

• Tourism Boost: Adds a modern leisure landmark to Hyderabad’s heritage and tech appeal

• Economic Impact: Jobs in hospitality, adventure tourism, and retail will benefit locals

Quick Facts

Aspect	Details
Location	Kotwal Guda (near ORR)
Size	35 acres
Investment	₹225 crore
Timeline	Construction begins December 2025
Key Features	Wave pool, sandy beach, adventure sports, floating villas, food courts
Eco-friendly	Water & waste management, sustainable design

Hyderabad’s artificial beach is more than an entertainment hub — it’s a lifestyle upgrade. Whether you’re a family looking for weekend fun, a couple chasing romantic sunsets, or an adventure seeker, this urban coastal retreat will be a game-changer.

Soon, the City of Pearls will proudly add another jewel to its crown — a beachfront escape without the ocean. 

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Seethathode Kayaking Festival : Kerala’s Backwaters

Kerala is all set to make a splash this monsoon with the Seethathode Kayaking Festival 2025! Scheduled for September 2, 2025, this adrenaline-packed event will be held at the scenic Seethathode Fire Station, Konni, Pathanamthitta. Organized by the Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society (KATPS) and Kerala Tourism, the festival celebrates water sports, eco-tourism, and community spirit in one of Kerala’s most picturesque forest ranges.  

Seethathode Kayaking Festival 2025

Seethathode Kayaking Festival

 

Event Schedule

Aspect	Details
Date	September 2, 2025
Time	10:00 AM onward
Venue	Seethathode Fire Station, Konni, Pathanamthitta
Organizers	Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society (KATPS) & Kerala Tourism
Tech Partner	Kerala Kayaking & Canoeing Association
Registration	Free, open from Aug 21 – Sep 1, 2025 (till 11:59 PM)

Categories & Prize Money

Participants can compete in five categories:

• Single Male

• Single Female

• Double Male

• Double Female

• Mixed Teams

 Total Prize Pool: ₹3,45,000

• Singles: ₹25,000 (1st), ₹15,000 (2nd), ₹5,000 (3rd)

• Doubles/Mixed: ₹50,000 (1st), ₹25,000 (2nd), ₹10,000 (3rd)

 All participants receive:

• Free T-shirt

• Lunch & snacks

• Certificate of participation

• Commemorative souvenirs 

The Venue: Seethathode

Seethathode, tucked away in Pathanamthitta’s Goodrical Range, is surrounded by 90% lush forest cover and hilly terrain. Just east of the famous Sabarimala pilgrimage site, it offers a peaceful yet adventurous setting for kayaking enthusiasts.

The combination of serene backwaters and thick greenery makes this festival not just a sporting event but a nature escape. 

Safety & Inclusivity

The festival emphasizes safety for all:

• Life jackets are mandatory

• Kayaks, paddles, and gear provided by KATPS

• Fitness declaration required for participants

• Well-structured race management with expert oversight

This ensures a safe, enjoyable experience whether you’re competing or cheering from the sidelines.

✅ Adventure + Fun: Perfect for thrill-seekers and families alike
✅ Eco-Tourism Boost: Promotes responsible, green tourism in Kerala
✅ Community Spirit: A chance to connect with like-minded adventurers
✅ Discover Seethathode: Explore forests, streams, and nearby attractions beyond the festival 

Tips for Visitors

• Register Early: Last date is September 1, 2025

• Stay Fit: Good stamina and swimming ability recommended

• Pack Smart: Sunscreen, hydration, and personal gear

• Explore Locally: Pair your trip with Konni’s elephant camp, Adavi boating, or a trek through Gavi

The Seethathode Kayaking Festival 2025 isn’t just about paddling to win — it’s about celebrating Kerala’s love for adventure, nature, and community. Whether you’re a professional kayaker or a first-time participant, this festival guarantees thrills, camaraderie, and memories that flow as freely as its rivers.

Mark your calendars, pack your spirit of adventure, and get ready to make waves in Seethathode 

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Mangi-Tungi Trek: Where Spirituality Meets Scenic Adventure

The Mangi-Tungi is more than just a trek—it’s a journey into history, devotion, and breathtaking landscapes. Known as the “Everest of Pilgrimage” by Jain devotees, these twin peaks rise over 4,300 ft and house ancient rock-cut temples, sacred caves, and the world’s tallest Jain idol—the 108-ft Statue of Ahimsa located in the Sahyadri ranges of Maharashtra, its a memorable trail experience for trekkers and pilgrims. 

Mangi-Tungi Trek

Trek Experience

• Steps & Distance: Be ready for a climb of about 3,500–4,500 stone steps (one way).

• Duration: 2.5–4 hours to reach the plateau, depending on fitness.

• Difficulty: Moderate—well-paved steps but physically demanding.

• What You’ll See on the Way:

  • Rock-cut caves with carvings of Adinath, Mahavira, Chandraprabhu, and Ram Chandra.

  • The serene Krishna Kund pond.

  • Statues of Bahubali (31 ft) and other Jain idols.

  • Sweeping Sahyadri views that make every pause worthwhile.

At the top, the twin pinnacles Mangi (4,343 ft) and Tungi (4,366 ft) stand tall, connected by a plateau that radiates peace and offers panoramic views. 

The Statue of Ahimsa

The biggest highlight is the Statue of Ahimsa—a 108-ft tall idol of Lord Rishabhdev carved directly out of the mountain. Recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records, it’s a modern marvel rooted in ancient tradition, drawing pilgrims and curious travelers alike.

 Best Time to Visit

October to February is the most pleasant season for trekking—cool, breezy, and clear skies. Summers can be hot, while monsoons make the steps slippery.

Nearby By Attractions

Make your journey fuller by exploring nearby gems:

• Vadakhel Dam (2.6 km) – a peaceful water spot for relaxation.

• Mulher Fort & Ganesh Mandir (10 km) – historic ruins with a touch of spirituality.

• Vani Saptashrungi Devi Temple (84 km) – one of Maharashtra’s famed Shakti Peethas.

• Satana & Taharabad villages – for local culture, simple food, and rural charm. 

Accommodations

• Jain Dharamshalas near the base provide simple, clean lodging with meals, but may have restrictions for non-Jain visitors.

• Budget hotels in Satana or Taharabad are available for families and groups.

• For more comfort, Nashik (125 km away) offers a wide range of hotels and guesthouses.

Travel Tips for Trekkers

• Start your climb early morning (sunrise) for cooler weather and fewer crowds.

• Carry water, light snacks, sunscreen, and good trekking shoes.

• Dress modestly—this is a deeply spiritual site.

• Go with a group if possible—it makes the trek both safer and more enjoyable. 

Why Visit Mangi-Tungi

Recently, industrialist Mr.Anand Mahindra called it a “hidden gem”—just 6–7 hours’ drive from Mumbai and Pune. And rightly so: Mangi-Tungi is not just about reaching the top; it’s about walking alongside centuries of faith, history, and natural beauty.

 The Mangi-Tungi trek blends adventure with spirituality in a way few treks can. With every step, you’ll find yourself closer to ancient Jain heritage, breathtaking Sahyadri views, and a profound sense of peace. Whether you come as a pilgrim or an explorer, this journey will leave you with stories—and serenity—to last a lifetime.

Suggested Itinerary for Mangi–Tungi Trek :

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Travel Itinerary for Mangi–Tungi Trek

 Travel Itinerary for Mangi–Tungi Trek: 

Mangi–Tungi Travel Plan

Overview:

• Location: Satana Taluka, Nashik District, Maharashtra

• Best Season: October – February

• Trek Difficulty: Moderate (3,500–4,500 steps)

• Duration: 2.5 – 4 hrs (one way)

  Day 1 – Arrival & Spiritual Welcome

  Time	Activity	Highlights
  Morning / Afternoon	Arrive in Nashik, drive to Satana/Taharabad (2.5–3 hrs)	Scenic Sahyadri drive 🌄
  Evening	Visit the Statue of Ahimsa Complex	World’s tallest Jain idol (108 ft) 🙏
  Night	Stay overnight near base (Dharamshala/Hotel)	Early rest for trek 💤

  Day 2 – The Trek to Mangi–Tungi

  Time	Activity	Highlights
  5:30 – 6:00 am	Start trek at sunrise	Cool weather + peaceful atmosphere 🌅
  On the way	Explore ancient caves & idols	Adinath, Mahavira, Chandraprabhu, Ram Chandra 🕉️
  Mid-morning	Pause at Krishna Kund	Scenic pond + devotional stop 💧
  Late morning	Reach Plateau between peaks	Panoramic Sahyadri views 🌄
  Noon	Begin descent	Return in 2–2.5 hrs
  Afternoon	Lunch + rest at base	Recharge 🍲
  Evening	Optional visit to Vadakhel Dam	Quiet sunset spot 🌇

  Day 3 – Nearby Excursions & Return Time Activity Highlights Morning Drive to Mulher Fort & Ganesh Mandir (10 km) History + spirituality 🏯 Optional Visit Vani Saptashrungi Devi Temple (84 km) Shakti Peetha & pilgrimage 🌸 Afternoon Return to Nashik / onward travel Wrap up trip 🚗   Accommodation  Jain Dharamshalas near base: simple, spiritual lodging with meals (restrictions may apply for non-Jains). Budget Hotels in Satana/Taharabad: good for families & groups. Nashik (125 km): modern hotels ranging from budget to luxury.  Travel Tips  Start trek at sunrise to avoid heat & crowds. Carry water, fruits, sunscreen, trekking shoes.  Dress modestly— sacred site Go with a group for safety and better experience. With this 3-day plan, you get the perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, and local exploration—a complete Mangi–Tungi experience!  This 3-day plan, you get the perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, and local exploration—a complete Mangi–Tungi experience! More details of  Mangi–Tungi Trek :

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