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From Mechuka To Mayudia, 8 Offbeat Destinations In Arunachal Pradesh For The Bold Traveller

Nestled in the northeastern corner of India lies a land of unparalleled beauty and mystique – Arunachal Pradesh. Blessed with rugged landscapes, verdant valleys, and snow-capped peaks, this enchanting region calls adventurers and wanderers alike to uncover its hidden treasures. As the sun casts its golden hues upon the mighty Himalayas, Arunachal Pradesh emerges as a haven for those with wanderlust in their hearts. For those with wanderlust coursing through their veins, the offbeat destinations of Arunachal Pradesh are a playground waiting to be explored. 1. Anini Anini, nestled in the heart of the Dibang Valley district in Arunachal Pradesh, is all about raw, untouched beauty. The headquarters of the district, this small town primarily hosts the Idu Mishmi tribal community, adding to its cultural richness. Despite its remote location, Anini offers a serene escape from the bustling world. Surrounded by the Dri and Mathun rivers, it sits atop a miniature plateau, shrouded in mist and clouds. Its simplicity is its charm, with basic road and air links connecting it to the outside world. 2. Dong Valley Dong Valley, situated in the Anjaw district, is a hidden gem awaiting discovery by adventurous souls. Enveloped by snow-capped mountains and lush pine forests, Dong Village exudes a serene tranquillity that captivates the heart. Renowned for witnessing the earliest sunrise in India, it holds a mystical charm that beckons travellers to its serene embrace. The village, perched at the easternmost edge of the country, offers breathtaking vistas. 3. Sangti Valley Nestled in the Eastern Himalayan Foothills, Sangti Valley emerges as a haven for nature lovers and trekkers alike. Located in the West Kameng district, this picturesque valley is blessed with unparalleled scenic beauty. Trekkers are drawn to its trails, weaving through towering ranges and verdant forests. Sangti village, situated at the heart of the valley, offers a glimpse into the traditional life of the Monpa communities. However, the valley’s true treasure lies in its role as a breeding centre for the endangered black-necked crane, revered as a symbol of holiness. 4. Shergaon Shergaon, nestled in the picturesque landscape of the West Kameng district, invites travellers with its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking vistas. Recently awarded the title of “Best Tourism Village of India,” Shergaon offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of its inhabitants. The village’s pleasant climate and panoramic views, especially during the months from October to March, make it an ideal destination for exploration. 5. Mechuka Mechuka, also known as Menchukha, stands as a testament to Arunachal Pradesh’s hidden treasures. Situated amidst gentle hills and snow-capped mountains, Mechuka Valley offers a retreat for the soul. The Siyom River, locally known as Yargyap Chu, flows through the valley, adding to its scenic allure. At its heart lies a 400-year-old Buddhist Monastery, a beacon of spiritual tranquillity amidst the rugged terrain. Visitors can explore ancient statues and immerse themselves in the valley’s rich cultural heritage. Bold Traveller Arunachal Pradesh calls you to uncover its secrets and create unforgettable memories. by Mallika Khurana Updated: March 11, 2024 From Mechuka To Mayudia, 8 Offbeat Destinations In Arunachal Pradesh For The Bold Traveller Nestled in the northeastern corner of India lies a land of unparalleled beauty and mystique – Arunachal Pradesh. Blessed with rugged landscapes, verdant valleys, and snow-capped peaks, this enchanting region calls adventurers and wanderers alike to uncover its hidden treasures. As the sun casts its golden hues upon the mighty Himalayas, Arunachal Pradesh emerges as a haven for those with wanderlust in their hearts. For those with wanderlust coursing through their veins, the offbeat destinations of Arunachal Pradesh are a playground waiting to be explored. Offbeat Destinations In Arunachal Pradesh 1. Anini Offbeat destinations Arunachal PradeshPhoto Credits: Wikimedia Commons Anini, nestled in the heart of the Dibang Valley district in Arunachal Pradesh, is all about raw, untouched beauty. The headquarters of the district, this small town primarily hosts the Idu Mishmi tribal community, adding to its cultural richness. Despite its remote location, Anini offers a serene escape from the bustling world. Surrounded by the Dri and Mathun rivers, it sits atop a miniature plateau, shrouded in mist and clouds. Its simplicity is its charm, with basic road and air links connecting it to the outside world. 2. Dong Valley DongPhoto Credits: Wikimedia Commons Dong Valley, situated in the Anjaw district, is a hidden gem awaiting discovery by adventurous souls. Enveloped by snow-capped mountains and lush pine forests, Dong Village exudes a serene tranquillity that captivates the heart. Renowned for witnessing the earliest sunrise in India, it holds a mystical charm that beckons travellers to its serene embrace. The village, perched at the easternmost edge of the country, offers breathtaking vistas. Also Read: From Agave To Rum, Saké To Ultra-Premium, Expert Insights Into The Hottest Alcohol Trends Of 2024 3. Sangti Valley Offbeat destinations Arunachal PradeshPhoto Credits: Wikimedia Commons Nestled in the Eastern Himalayan Foothills, Sangti Valley emerges as a haven for nature lovers and trekkers alike. Located in the West Kameng district, this picturesque valley is blessed with unparalleled scenic beauty. Trekkers are drawn to its trails, weaving through towering ranges and verdant forests. Sangti village, situated at the heart of the valley, offers a glimpse into the traditional life of the Monpa communities. However, the valley’s true treasure lies in its role as a breeding centre for the endangered black-necked crane, revered as a symbol of holiness. 4. Shergaon ShergaonPhoto Credits: Wikimedia Commons Shergaon, nestled in the picturesque landscape of the West Kameng district, invites travellers with its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking vistas. Recently awarded the title of “Best Tourism Village of India,” Shergaon offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of its inhabitants. The village’s pleasant climate and panoramic views, especially during the months from October to March, make it an ideal destination for exploration. 5. Mechuka Offbeat destinations Arunachal PradeshPhoto Credits: Wikimedia Commons Mechuka, also known as Menchukha, stands as a testament to Arunachal Pradesh’s hidden treasures. Situated amidst gentle hills and snow-capped mountains, Mechuka Valley offers a retreat for the soul. The Siyom River, locally known as Yargyap Chu, flows through the valley, adding to its scenic allure. At its heart lies a 400-year-old Buddhist Monastery, a beacon of spiritual tranquillity amidst the rugged terrain. Visitors can explore ancient statues and immerse themselves in the valley’s rich cultural heritage. 6. Tuting Tuting, nestled along the banks of the Siang River in the Upper Siang district, offers a gateway to adventure and serenity. Populated primarily by the Adi tribe, with a sprinkling of neighbouring tribes, Tuting treats travellers with its natural wonders. From the enchanting Dampo Tso lake to the majestic Sibe-Re waterfall, the town is a playground for nature enthusiasts. Trekkers can explore the remnants of the now-defunct Kapangla Pass and revel in the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape. 7. Mayudia Pass Mayudia Pass, nestled in the Dibang Valley district, stands as a gateway to a winter wonderland. Situated at an altitude of 2,655 metres, this hill resort offers panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and lush forests. The journey from Roing to Mayudia is an adventure in itself, winding through twelve-necked points of the road. Whether it’s the peak tourist season in winter or the lush greenery of other months, Mayudia Pass promises an enchanting retreat. 8. Ziro Ziro, the headquarters of the Lower Subansiri district, invites travellers on a cultural odyssey amidst nature’s embrace. Renowned for its inclusion in UNESCO’s Tentative List for World Heritage Sites, Ziro boasts the Apatani cultural landscape. The town, also known as Hapoli, offers a blend of economic activity and administrative importance. Perched at an altitude of 1500 metres, Ziro mesmerises visitors with its lush green forests and terraced paddy fields.

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PM Modi To Lay Foundation Stone Of & Inaugrate 112 National Highway Projects Worth ₹1 Lakh Crore

The Prime Minister of our country, Narendra Modi, is currently visiting Gurugram in Haryana. There, he is slated to inaugurate as well as lay foundation stones for a total of 112 National Highway Projects in the country. These projects have a combined worth of a whopping ₹1 Lakh Crore! Dwarka Expressway, among others, are included in this. Here are all of the other important details that you would need to know about this event. According to an article which was recently published by ANI, the Haryana section of the Dwarka Expressway will be inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi. This is being done with the aim of reducing traffic congestion on the NH-48 between Gurugram and Delhi. This particular project has been built at a cost of ₹4,100 crores. It also includes two packages. One stretches across 10.2 kilometres from the Delhi-Haryana border to Basai ROB. The other package stretches across 8.7 kilometres from Basai ROB to Kherki Daula. The Dwarka Expressway will also provide connectivity to the Indira Gandhi International Airport or IGIA as well as the Gurugram Bypass. This is just one of the National Highway projects inaugurated by the PM. As per the official release cited in the ANI article, other projects include Package 3 of Urban Extension Road, Package 3 of Nangloi-Najafgarh Road to Dwarka’s Section 24. In addition to this, three packages of Lucknow Ring Road will also be inaugurated. These packages are developed at a total cost of ₹4,600 crores. The Anandapuram-Pendurthi-Anakapalli section of NH-16 in Andhra Pradesh has been developed at a cost of ₹2,950 crores. Himachal Pradesh’s Kiratpur-Nerchowk Section of NH-21 was developed at a cost of ₹3,400 crores.

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Tamil Nadu: Special toy train service between Mettupalayam-Ooty-Coonoor-Ooty to attract foreign tourists in Nilgiris

Southern Railway Salem Division has announced that a special mountain train will be running between Mettupalayam-Ooty-Coonoor-Ooty from March 29, 2024, to July 1, 2024, for tourists given the summer season in Nilgiris district. Summer Escapade: Special mountain train returns to Nilgiris district in Tamil Nadu, will run between Mettupalayam-Ooty-Coonoor to attract foreign tourists. Nilgiris district is an international tourist destination and the summer season falls in April and May. Thousands of tourists visit every day to enjoy this summer season. "During the summer season, many tourists prefer to travel by mountain train, which has UNESCO heritage status. Travelling by mountain train over 206 bridges and 16 caves while enjoying the scenery is an exhilarating experience. In this case, in the coming summer season, a special mountain train will be run between Coonoor and Coonoor-Ooty on 4 days i.e. Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday from March 29, 2024," Salem Division of Southern Railway said. Salem Division of Southern Railway has announced that a special mountain train will be operated between Mettupalayam-Ooty on Fridays and Sundays and between Ooty-Mettupalayam on Saturdays and Sundays from March 29, 2024 to July 1, 2024. Despite the summer special Toy train will run from March 29. A large number of tourists are expected to visit Nilgiris Ooty and enjoy the Toy train.

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International Yoga Festival in Rishikesh from March 15-21 – know all about the event

The International Yoga Festival – 2024, running from March 15 to 21, is an eagerly awaited event set against the serene backdrop of the holy Ganges in Rishikesh. Nestled along the banks of the sacred river, the Yog Bharat Ghat in Muni Ki Reti emerges as a hub of profound spiritual awakening and holistic wellness during this week-long celebration of yoga. Renowned figures such as Swami Sukhabodhananda, Dr. Hester O'Connor, S. Sridharan, Douglas Atmananda Rexford, Swamy Ajay Rana, and Anshuka Parwani will grace the event, sharing their knowledge and insights to guide attendees towards holistic well-being. An interesting blend of yoga sessions, spiritual talks, and expert guidance will help participants embark on a transformative journey towards vitality and enlightenment. Rishikesh, in particular, has cemented its position as the foremost centre for yoga, drawing pilgrims and seekers from around the globe. This year's festival is anticipated to be exceptional, providing a magnificent platform for yoga enthusiasts to immerse themselves in learning and personal growth. With its rich spiritual heritage and serene surroundings, Uttarakhand continues to be a beacon for those on the path to holistic well-being through the practice of yoga. The event is organised by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board. This event unites premier international yoga institutions, offering participants a distinctive chance to immerse themselves in the age-old tradition of yoga. Esteemed schools such as the Art of Living, Isha Foundation, Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram, Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute, Sivananda Ashram, and Manav Dharam Ashram will provide attendees with the opportunity to delve into various meditation techniques amidst a serene environment. Experts will lead panel discussions at the event, covering topics such as the benefits of music therapy and the science of intuition through Pragya Yog, Marm Chikitsa, Yoga, and Strishakti, among others. Each evening, the serene Ganga aarti will create a mystical ambiance, accompanied by enchanting melodies expressing devotion and love for the divine. Renowned bands like Kabir Cafe and Pandavas Band, fusion rhythms by Swaraag, Kathak dance by Aditi Mangal Das, Dance Ballet by Anuj Mishra, and more will be featured. Additionally, the festival offers an opportunity to delve into India's rich cultural heritage through various cultural programs. For further information, yoga enthusiasts can visit the festival’s official website.

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UK student visa: Check whether new policy changes can affect Indian students

As per the latest development, the United Kingdom has implemented significant changes in visa regulations, including those for students, leading to speculation about the impact on immigrants. In this scenario, while many view it as a 'wait and watch' situation, experts from the British Council have expressed that the impact of these changes will be relatively limited. Here's a comprehensive overview that will help you to clear your doubts. What changes have been made to student visa rules in the UK? The UK recently implemented a rule in its student visa policy, stating that from January 2024, international students enrolled in postgraduate research programs won't be allowed to bring their dependents and family members to the United Kingdom. However, it's crucial to note that this rule excludes Master of Research (MRes) and Doctorate program students. Rittika Chanda Parruck MBE, Director of Education India at the British Council, highlighted that the impact would be minimal. She stated, "The majority of UK postgraduate programs are relatively short-term, typically lasting around a year. Therefore, the impact of this change is comparatively limited compared to study durations in other major international education destinations. Consequently, it does not significantly alter the overall educational experience or opportunities available in the UK. Furthermore, Parruck added, "This policy adjustment does not impact alternative visa routes such as the Graduate Route, Young Professionals Scheme, visit visas, or Skilled Work visas, ensuring students have other avenues available. Undergraduate students are not permitted to bring dependents, and this has not changed." She clarified that the changes in the dependent visa policy are commonly misconstrued, which will likely impact only a segment of international students and programs, with inherent exemptions for specific student categories. In spite of these modifications, the United Kingdom remains an enticing destination, drawing individuals with its top-notch universities and state-of-the-art research facilities. The allure of pursuing education in the United Kingdom has not waned, and the country's academic landscape continues to be lauded globally. Undoubtedly, the UK's reputation for providing quality education at its top-ranking universities, coupled with cutting-edge research opportunities, is a significant magnet for international students, including a growing number from India. The consistent rise in the number of Indian students choosing the UK as their educational destination speaks volumes about the country's enduring appeal.

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What is a 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa all about

A Schengen visa serves as a travel permit enabling holders to freely visit and traverse the Schengen Area, comprising 27 European countries where internal border controls have been abolished. This visa facilitates entry, exit, and movement between member states without the need for passport checks at their shared borders. Simplifying travel across the Schengen Area, it encompasses renowned destinations like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, among others. A Schengen visa allows for transit or short visits of up to 90 days within a 180-day period in the Schengen region. While any Schengen state acknowledges a visa issued by another, registration is necessary with the country designated as your main destination. If visiting multiple Schengen countries without a clear primary destination, it is advisable to apply from the region of first entry. What is a 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa? The 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa, obtainable from India, allows travel to any Schengen country. Eligibility extends to individuals who have previously held and lawfully utilised a multiple-entry visa valid for at least two years within the previous three years. Within a five-year period, this visa permits unlimited entries into 27 European nations, provided the 90/180-day limit is adhered to. The 5-year multiple-entry visa requirements and fees Demonstrate a legitimate need for multiple entries into the Schengen Area in the upcoming year(s). Maintain a clean visa record, with no history of illegal work or overstaying previous visas in the Schengen Area. Have no criminal convictions in their home country. Provide proof of travel insurance for the initial trip into the Schengen Zone. While a multiple-entry visa allows for several visits totaling less than 90 days within its validity period, the cost of a 5-year multiple-entry Schengen visa remains the same as a standard short-stay visa: €80 or $90. Schengen countries: Austria, Portugal, Germany, Czech Republic, Poland, Italy, Luxembourg, Estonia, Latvia, Spain, Lithuania, Finland, Iceland, Slovenia, Slovakia, Denmark, Hungary, Malta, Switzerland, Belgium, France, Liechtenstein, Greece, Norway, Sweden, Netherlands, and Croatia.

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