Blog - My Universal Diary

12 Popular Varieties of Mangoes in India

Food
Main

-

May 26, 2019

Mangoes are undeniably the king of fruits and one of the best places where you can get mangoes is definitely India. There are 12 best and famous varieties of mango in India and today we are going to discuss about the same. Running from north to south, the Indian soil is like a manufacturing unit of mangoes which is why you would like to have the taste of each and every variety.

Here are 12 Popular Varieties of Mangoes in India

1. Ratnagiri Alphonso Mango

Among mangoes this is the best of the lot with an amazing taste and it is found in the the area of Ratnagiri in Maharashtra. It is also known as Hafoos and it is expensive as well. It is absolutely right Orange or Golden yellow in colour, and is distributed all over India as well as exported in the other parts of the globe. It is one of the very first mangoes which has been able to achieve the geographical indication tag.

2. Kesar Mango

This is a specific variety of mango Which is found in the Junagarh area of Gujarat. It is a bright Orange coloured mango that Rose specifically at the foothills of the Girnar range of mountains. Not only it is absolutely delicious but it is also one of the most expensive variety that you can find in mangoes. Also another impressive fact about it is that it has been able to receive the geographical indication status in the year 2011.

3. Banganapalle Benishan Mango

Benishan mango is also called Banganpalle and it is found in the Kurnool district in Andhra Pradesh. It is absolutely 70 kilometres in the South District of Pune and it is also known as the king of mangoes in South India. It has got registration of the geographical indication and is very famous in and around South India.

4. Dasheri Mango

The Shady mango is mostly found in the Lucknow district of Uttar Pradesh and it is an amazing mango with delicious taste and mesmerizing fragrance. District is one of the largest producers of Dussehra mango in the North India section. District also produces some other varieties of mango like jouhari, safeda, chausa and fazli. The dasheri mango comprises of beautiful flavour which is why it becomes popular.

5. Badami Mango

Badami mangoes are also known as the Alphonso of Karnataka and is one of the most amazing mangoes that has been able to gain popularity in the southern part of India. This is the best kind of mango that you can have in order to make mango milkshake. It is expensive but also tasty.

6. Langra Mango

Langra mango are grown in Banaras and is one of the best kind of mangoes for slicing and Canning purposes. These are mostly green or lemon yellow in colour and they appear when the mango season is almost going. This is one of the best mangoes that is distributed all across the country and is mind-bogglingly tasty.

7. Chaunsa Mango

Chausa or Chaunsa mangoes is very popular in the Northern part of India and also Central India but its production area is Uttar Pradesh. Decision of this kind of mangoes starts from June and remains till the month of August. Dosa is very tasty and can be used to be eaten raw or in milkshakes.

8. Totapuri Mango

Totapuri mango has a very weird shape because it is large in size and is greenish yellow in colour. It is grown specifically in South India and the inner part of Karnataka. It is not only distributed all over India but is also exported to other parts of the globe.

9. Fazli or Malda Mango

Fazli mango and Malda mango is mostly grown in West Bengal and the state of Bihar in India. This kind of mango is eaten raw as well as used in jams and pickles. It is a very special variety of mango and large in size. It is grown mostly for commercial purpose and exported all across the world.

10. Himsagar Mango

Himsagar mango is mostly originated in Murshidabad in the state of West Bengal and also in some parts of Orissa. It is ranked among one of the top five varieties of mangoes in India and is one of the best kind that you will ever have. It is mostly round in shape and greenish-yellow in colour with an amazing flavour.

11. Raspuri Mango

This is mostly and oval shaped mango Which is absolutely juicy and delicious and looks different from other kinds of mangoes. If himsagar and Alphonso are the king of mangoes then this is the queen of mangoes in India. They are reddish in colour in the upper half and greenish in the lower half.

12. Neelam Mango

This is the kind of mango Which grows in a number of areas of India and is found in plenty in the month of June. This kind of mangoes are an absolute favourite in the area of Hyderabad and it is one of the most popular varieties of mango in South India.

Summing Up

Now that you have complete insight about the 12 of the best varieties of mangoes in India, all you have to do is to start collecting them right away so that you can have an assortment of dishes using these. Most of them can be eaten raw and you can also make pickles and other things out of them. So enjoy this summer season with these amazing kinds of mangoes and have the best of mango eating experience!

Basanta Utsav at Shantiniketan

Pritha Shyam

-

March 16, 2019

0

It is an undeniable fact that West Bengal is one of the warehouses of festivals and the upcoming festival is none other than Holi all what we specifically call as the Basanta Utsav. Holi is one such festival which is celebrated all throughout India but if you want to have the actual essence of this festival then you definitely have to plan a visit to Bolpur Santiniketan for witnessing The Incredible celebration of Basanta Utsav.

The spring season is absolutely mind boggling in Bengal when there is moderate temperature and all the flowers start blooming. Nature comes with its own beauty and that itself calls for celebration. If you visit Bolpur Shantiniketan you will find that it is covered with trees of Palash and Shimul, and looks absolutely gorgeous.

Shantiniketan is the Institution of the world famous poet and writer Rabindranath Tagore who is also known as Gurudev, and Basanta Utsav was initiated by him only. He wanted all his students and disciples to celebrate the festival of Holi and till date if you visit this place you will feel in the romanticism in the spot.

Current scenario

It is true that the festival started with only the visva-bharati students, but right now it is not confined to any particular area. Right now, it is open to all which is the reason why you will be able to visit this place and enjoy the celebrations without any restrictions. This year Basanta Utsav is on Friday 14th March, 2025.

Things to see and do During Basanta Utsav

The very first thing that will grab your attention is the decoration that has been made by the Visva Bharati students. The entire place is covered with garlands and an array of flowers to make it look absolutely colourful and vibrant. Not only that there is a lot of cultural function is going on in every corner of the place and students flock together to be a part and parcel of it.

It seems like more of a cultural fair going on which is absolutely entertaining and it seems delightful to see the students be a part of the song dance and theatrical performance is being done on the Vishwa Bharti grounds. When Basanta Utsav get celebrated in the Visva Bharati University it becomes known as Rabindrik Basanta Utsav.

Vision of the Basanta Utsav

The program starts with a Prabhat Pheri in which the students of Visva Bharati University gets dressed in different shades of yellow and orange and they walk around in a synchronised group in and around the campus in Santiniketan while singing songs of Tagore and praising the season of spring.

Later on, as the Prabhat Feri ends the students greet Each Other as well as the strangers with best wishes and also smears Abir on their faces. They perform beautifully choreographed a Rabindrik dance, and the university program ends with Rabindra Sangeet.

All the girls wear sarees on that particular day and you will be able to notice colourful flower decorations on their heads while the boys wear “panjabi pajama”. This is done to bring the traditional and authentic essence of Bengali culture and interweave it with the nationwide celebration of Holi.

Right after the visva-bharati university program ends, The Other universities start having their programs under the specific tree named as the amrakunja in front of the university hostels.

The best success of this program lies in the fact that people are not only all over India but all over the globe flock together to see this festivity and celebration that goes on the entire day. It is photographed by a number of professional photographers to be put up on the Global websites, which is another reason why it is so popular.

If you are an introvert or shy kind of a person, even then you will be forgetful of your shyness, and you would participate in the dance and song that is going on.

There is a number of Handicrafts items that you would find in this place because during the basanta Utsav a lot of people come here to sell handmade things which are indeed beautiful.

Here you will be able to interact with a number of different kinds of people and we can bet that is going to be great pleasurable experience for the people who love cultural Unison.

If you look at the stalls you would love to see Handicrafts made up of cotton, straw, wood, Terracotta, et cetera.

After the entire program in sweets are distributed among all the people who have participated and greetings are exchanged. It is said that the Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore love to the spring season and that is why many of his poems and songs are repeated in this festival to bring out the beauty of spring and how it brings happiness in our life.

Another impressive step that has been taken by the visva-bharati University authority is that all the colours that will be used in the festival should be organic in nature and therefore you will not be entitled to any toxins or allergic reactions. Each and every colour is crafted out of dried flowers and leaves so that everyone can play colours without any fear or apprehension.

Summing Up

In a nutshell, we would love to say that Bolpur Shantiniketan is in itself a beautiful place to visit at least for once, butts try to visit in during the Basanta Utsav because then you get to understand the true colour of celebration amidst the serenity of the place.

If you want you can return on the same day but it is advisable that you stay there for at least two days to participate in each and every activity that is going on. You will be able to find ample accommodations over there so staying would not be a problem. Once you visit this place during Basanta Utsav you would want to attend it every single year.

Top Honeymoon Destinations in India

Main
Travel

Ishmeet Kaur

-

March 9, 2019

0

Marriage is a divine relation that binds not just two families or individuals, but also two souls with an eternal bond for a lifetime! With the knot being tied, life just takes a new turn towards love, bliss and romance.

Such an auspicious bond in life, why not and add some more strokes of romance and affection with a pleasant honeymoon trip? But then…that one question strikes the mind: where to go?

Well, no more worries about planning a dreamy honeymoon trip!

1. Shimla

Shimla Mountain rail — Image Credit: wreindl on Pixabay

Honeymoon is not just about traveling to a distant place but also about knowing your partner. So, what could be a better destination than Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. Situated amidst the Himalayas, Shimla lies at an elevation of 2205 M above sea level with the places you can’t afford to miss.

Referred to as the ‘Queen of Hill Stations’, Shimla is popularly known for its scenic locations and the chilly white snow. White is not just a colour! It also signifies the amount of purity, wholeness and completion.

Shower the new beginning of your married life with the essence of the white snows and relinquish yourselves with the rejuvenating things to do in Shimla. Complete each other with love and affection and make it for the most romantic moments of your life!

2. Jaisalmer

Romantic Jaisalmer — Image by MangoTraveler on Pixabay

Honeymoon in Jaisalmer is truly a hearty affair! Located right at the heart of the great Thar Desert, honeymoon in the ‘Golden City’ is an awe-striking plan.

You and your partner can have hearty conversations and savour the delectable Rajasthani cuisine. Jaisalmer is all about art and crafts, culture and tradition, the warmth of each other’s company and promises for life.

Explore the unusual beauty of this place on a thrilling camel safari. Jaisalmer is an abode to several magnificent Havelis and Forts, which will add a royal touch to your honeymoon.

3. Kovalam

A quaint town full of beaches located in Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala is Kovalam. This place lies in close proximity to the Arabian Sea and is blessed with a perfect environment to be a honeymoon destination. The mouth-watering seafood, the ayurvedic massages, the shallow waters make it an ideal resort for the newly wedded.

Kovalam is popularly known for its traditional Ayurvedic massages. Honeymooners looking forward to relaxing and feel stress-free can go for these massages. Both of you can rejuvenate and revitalise by getting a royal pampering at the ayurvedic centres here.

There are several niche hotels that offer you sea view rooms and high-end services making your stay at Kovalam spectacular and an extremely pampering one. The shallow of beaches of Kovalam waits for you to take a romantic swim. Ending your trip with a houseboat cruise completes this royal trip in a splendid fashion!

4. Goa

Popularly known as the party capital of India, this little heaven on earth is a package full of enthralling surprises and contradictions. Goa not only boasts commercialized beaches and crowded nightclubs, but it also proffers some immaculate and quaint spots for all you romantic couples.

Be in awe of the fascinating waters, bestowed with unique and multi-hued flora and fauna, which both you lovers can explore. Goa offers scuba diving which will not only add spice to your honeymoon, but also take you two to another world altogether.

Take a walk on the shimmering sands of these beaches and watch the sun meet the horizon. Other highlights of Goa include the essence of the rich Portuguese culture, mouth-watering seafood and hospitable locals.

5. Srinagar

The houseboats and the Shikharas on those shimmering lakes and the mesmerising Mughal gardens make Srinagar a beloved destination for honeymooners. The glistening snow-capped hills during the winters and the colorful summers, rightly tags Srinagar a paradise on earth.

To make your honeymoon in Srinagar a memorable one, indulge in the plethora of adventure activities like skiing, trekking, white water rafting, paragliding, camping and Kayaking. The perfect weather, the love in the air and immaculate exquisiteness of Srinagar, will bless you with an ideal beginning of your married life.

So, take the shikara ride in the stunning Dal Lake, visit the many colourful gardens and fill your honeymoon with the most romantic moments! Well, when in Srinagar, words can’t just define the experience; you need to feel it!

6. Gulmarg

Situated in Baramula district Jammu and Kashmir. The town is based in the Pirpanjal range in the western the Himalayas.

The snowy meadows of Gulmarg await you to bring all your romantic emotions to life! The alluring charm of the snow-clad hills and valleys of this hill station outlooks any other honeymoon destinations in India.

It is also a hub for winter sports activities, especially skiing and serves as one of the best leisure spots in the country. Gulmarg honeymoon package is a perfect way to plan your most memorable journey in this beautiful town.

7. Wayanad

Wayanad Kerala — Image by MuhsinMohd on Pixabay

For an alluring honeymoon in Kerala, the most quixotic one is still Wayanad, circumscribed by lush green forests, tea plantations, cold water reservoirs and waterfalls. Not to be specifically said about the restorative tourism concepts of the Government as well as private sectors that solicit visitors in a large amount, especially honeymoon couples. Rather, the resorts, honeymoon cottages, and homestays are the well-settled examples for how deeply Wayanad influenced the number of honeymoon couples selecting this breath-taking panorama to increase.

All these resorts and homestays together perpetuate a relishing setting in the interior and exterior without upsetting the precious nature. To name a few, Vythiri Resort, Banasura, Orchard Holiday Resort etc are some of the quite famous ones in the area.

8. Kabini

Kabini, yes, it is the name of a river, but fortunately, it has been added to the tourist sector of Karnataka in recent years since a revelation saying there is not just this river but a wild forest of lush greenery, an abode for rare species of animals came into being. That is why it satisfies any type of travellers including honeymoon couples, indeed.

The wildlife safari, the elephant safari, the Coracle ride, the visit to the Kabini dam, the safari in Nagarhole National Park are just a few of the mainly available sequence of reverberating activities. Don’t you think your perfect half will experience the ultimate thrill here? The quiet nature stands as a blanket that leads you to attain the highest comfort level, rather beyond you can imagine. Inside the jungles, you will be able to get a promising offbeat stay. Shhhh! Listen, the wild speaks.

9. Cherrapunji

Although Cherrapunji owns a coveted place in travellers’ diaries, many of them don’t know it lodges an unusual facet extending a good time to honeymoon couples in an exemplary way. Mawsmai waterfalls, acting as a cascade amidst the greenery stops your breath for a second by which it is considered as one of the best waterfalls in the world. Likewise, countless points which are rich in serenity and tranquillity could be explored out with your perfect partner of life.

Isn’t it triumphant to know that there are numerous stay options as well near to the extravagant location, that too aiming at honeymoon couples? You can be more excited to see bumper offers from these resorts helping you to don’t miss out even a single minute without exhilaration.

10. Manali

Manali is a hill station located at the northern side of Himachal Pradesh in India. Based close to River Beas, Manali proffers an alluring panorama to its visitors. Plan your honeymoon at Manali and begin the new journey of life embraced by these mesmeric creations.

Manali, also known as the mistress of Himachal is one of the most visited places in India due to it scenic beauty and adrenaline pumping things to do, To make your honeymoon more eventful, take your better half for activities like skiing, trekking, paragliding, rafting in the white waters, camping under a starry night of Manali and many more adventure activities. Trigger their adrenaline rush and discover how your partner welcomes thrill.

There are other major attractions in Manali like the Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries and picturesque waterfalls. Have a tryst with the snow-capped peaks, romance the untouched beauty of nature and fall in love with each other amidst the enchanting greeneries at Manali.

Have a super happening Honeymoon fellas!

8 Best Things to Do in Delhi

Main
Travel

Shivali Singla

-

February 3, 2019

0

Delhi is old, very old, and also exotic. Delhi welcomes its visitors with a sense of enthrallment and awe. Primarily, this sense of wonder emanates from the fact that visitors have so many things to do in Delhi. In some ways, Delhi might even seem mysterious to some.

Probably, the most wonderful thing about the city is its perfect blending of the old and the new. At the same time, Delhi is grand and mundane, posh and poor, spotless and filthy. Delhi has all the complexities which an age-old capital city truly deserves.

So, if you are planning to visit Delhi, one of the obvious questions that come to your mind is – What to do in Delhi? This article is meant to help you with that.

At the outset, let me begin by assuring you that your trip to Delhi is bound to be fruitful. After all, there are so many things to do in Delhi. In this article, I’ll put forward a list of the best places to visit in Delhi. So, let’s begin with the list of things to do in Delhi and the best places to visit in Delhi.

1. Visit the India Gate

If you are in Delhi, you simply can’t miss the India gate. Undoubtedly, this is one of the best places to visit in Delhi. While you are at the India gate, you could have a picnic there. You could even take an early morning walk along the historic and serene Rajpath.

Also, you can enjoy the splendid sunrise and sunset while taking a boat ride. The splendid silhouette of this ancient city is truly a sight that you must see. When it comes to food in that area, you could savor the famous “chuski” or enjoy bhutta (corn) with tea.

If you are a night owl, and even if you aren’t, make sure to witness the India gate at night. It is a splendid sight indeed.

2. Savor the Tastes of Paranthe Wali Gali

If you are a foodie, this is by far one of the best things to do in Delhi for you. Located in the Chandni Chowk area, this place is famous for its street food. Especially if you’re visiting Delhi in winters, you must taste the paranthas, kababs and the sweets of this place.

Although most of the shops are equally good, Kanai Lal Durga Parshad Dixit Paratha is the most popular.

3. Chill and Shop at Connaught Place

The British established Connaught place (CP) in 1933 and since then, it has been one of Delhi’s primary business centers. Typical to British architecture, the locality is built in three concentric rings. With a central park, the locality is adorned with Georgian-style buildings.

Quite deservingly, Connaught place is regarded as Delhi’s heart and is well connected with every corner of the city.

A few years back, CP was mostly a few shopping malls, bars, and stores selling clothes. However, it has completely changed its appearance over the years, especially with the opening of the Metro in the area.

Now, with its posh bars and restaurants, CP is like a night-life hub of Delhi. During the day, you may visit the Bangla Sahib Gurudwara which is a holy place of the Sikhs. You may also visit the ancient Hanuman temple or the Janpath market. Another interesting place to visit in the area is an ancient well, known as Agrasen ki Baoli.

Apart from these, you may also witness the manual laundry at Devi Prasad Sadan Dhobi Ghat. To reach CP, you may take a metro to Rajiv Chowk.

4. Explore the Lodhi Art District

Known as Delhi’s art district, the walls in Lodhi Colony are adorned with splendid street art and graffiti. Artists from around the world and also from the locality have collaborated with St+art India which is an NGO.

Together, they have created more than 20 murals to decorate the locality. During your visit, you may also drop into one of the restaurants in the area which serve delicious food.

5. Hang Out at Hauz Khas Village

If you’re thinking about what to do in Delhi to have fun, you must check out the Hauz Khas Village. This place is one of Delhi’s oldest, as well as, hippest places. In ancient times, the locality housed a royal water tank, from which the area derives its name. Hauz Khas undoubtedly ranks quite high on the list of best places to visit in Delhi.

Apart from the Hauz Khas complex, there is also a madrasa and the tomb of Tughlaq ruler Firoze Shah. Very close to the locality, there is a Deer Park which has become quite famous.

If you choose, you may also visit one of the many high-class boutiques, bars, restaurants and art galleries. If you are looking for a nice place to hang out, I’d recommend the Kunzum Travel Café.

6. Experience Qawwali at Nizamuddin Dargah

Qawwali is the music form of the ancient folk cult known as the Sufi. At the Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah, the tomb of Nizamuddin Auliya, you can experience live Qawwali every Thursday evening. The Qawwalis are performed by different devoted families, some of which have been performing for more than a century.

Apart from this, there is also a happening market nearby which you may choose to explore.

7. Cycle through the Streets of Delhi

If you wish to truly experience any city, you have to witness it up close. This is particularly true of Delhi, which demands that you physically sense all its colors and smells. It’s a marvelous experience to cycle around the streets of Delhi. A Dutch company, Delhi By Cycle, organizes early morning bicycle tours, which you might avail.

8. Explore Delhi on Foot – City Walk

If cycling is not your forte, or even if it is, you may take a walk around the city. Trust me when I say that it’s a truly wonderful and enriching experience. Various organizations conduct city walks in Delhi. You may look them up on the internet and participate in one of these. If you wish to be self-dependent and would love to walk around on your own, of course, nothing stops you.

Top 8 Royal Cities of India

Main
Travel

Vaidehi Sharma

-

February 3, 2019

0

India, there is something unique in this name which is enough to win your utmost attention every single time. This country signifies the incredible existence of composite culture. There is no doubt that India reflects major travelling goals for every traveler. This nation is well known for its ravishing royalness which is capable enough to soothe the eyes of the beholder. This is the reason why we are bringing the essence of top 8 royal cities of India only for you. Here we go-

1. Jaipur

Jaipur Hawa Mahal — Image Source: dventureTravelTrip on Pixabay

This city is carrying all the rainbows of royalness. Jaipur is very commonly known as “the pink city”. This city is worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. Amer Palace is holding the vast pride of this place more than that the food, the shimmering beauty of streets, the spectacular sequence of the market, the beyondness feel of Rajasthani traditions makes this place something out of this planet. If you want to cherish your craze for the amazing beauty of the city than this place entitles the first position in our list. Be a part of this loyal legacy. Jaipur is one of the most terrific cities of India.

Places to Visit

Amer Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jal Mahal, City Palace, Rajmandir talkies

2. Delhi

Red Fort Delhi — Image Source: TAugustine on Pixabay

Taking ahead the values and customs of India to the next level. Delhi is not just the capital of India but also standing as the gem of the country. It is needless for telling that Delhi has been the biggest trade centre of India in the old times. This place takes into consideration magnificent magic for every wanderer. Some of the most precious building has been established in India which is stealing the supreme love of India. This is the main factor why Delhi is enjoying a second place in our list of top 8 royal cities of India.

Places to visit

Qutub Minar, Red Fort, India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb, Lotus temple, Akshardham Temple.

3. Udaipur

Udaipur is the place which owns the heart of every traveller. Apart from being the former capital of Mewar in the history. This city is blessed with eternal peace in terms of scenic elegance. At present time Udaipur is grabbing the first status in the bucket list of all tourists. Moreover, the city is an ideal destination for the photobombers too. If you are looking to plan an implausible trip for your loved once the Udaipur is the lovable space for you. This city is the hub to an entire sense of royalness which formulates the remarkable image of India.

Places To Visit

Sajjangarh Palace, Lake Pichola, Bagore Ki Haveli, Fateh Sagar Lake.

4. Agra

Agra is the place which determines the blissful meaning of love for everyone. It is the home to the most precious monument of India known as Taj Mahal. Agra is bringing the unbeatable charm of royalness for every tourist. In case if you targeting to witness the striking grace of India than we would like to suggest you outline your trip for Agra as soon as possible. The mouth-watering dishes of Agra contribute in the league of reasons for visiting this place. There is no doubt that this city is the keeper of peace and prosperity.

Places to visit

Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Itmad Ud Daula, Tomb of Akbar the Great, Chini Ka Rauza.

5. Jodhpur

Here is another member belonging from the Rajasthan family. Jodhpur is the city which personifies the true meaning of colourful life. This city has earned the honour of being the second largest city of India. If you are willing to reload your soul with real hues of Indian culture than Jodhpur is the right place for you. Situated at the edge of the Thar desert this city showcases the exact feel of royalness. The scrumptious cuisines of Jodhpur make it by far more special as in comparison to any other tourist location.