Sonipat, Haryana, India

Sonipat also known as Sonepat, district of Haryana, and about 50 Km from Delhi, is surrounded by the River Yamuna on its eastern side.  It is a nice place to visit if staying in nearby Delhi.

Being close to New Delhi, the place enjoyed special attention from Mughal rulers and the evidence of the same can be seen in the architectural structures present in the city.  Sonipat visit is incomplete without a mention of its rich cultural and spiritual legacy. Temples, Mosque of Abdullah Nasir-ud-din and Khwaja Khizr Tomb are the famous tourist attractions worth visiting in the city.

The tomb of Khwaja Khizr houses the remains of the saint and son of Darya Khan who lived during the rule of Ibrahim Lodhi. The structure was built between 1522 and 1525 AD.  The tomb stands on an elevated platform which can be accessed by a flight of steps.

Choki Dhani is the place to see and a must when coming to Sonipat.  This place is awesome and I had the best time here.  Chokhi Dhani Sonipat is set in an ethnic Rajasthani village theme.  Chokhi Dhani has dining, live entertainment and camel rides.  For a great evening Rajasthani style then you must come here.  Live dance and music performances all through the evening is one of the major attractions at Chokhi Dhani Village.  The magic show, puppet show, and the acrobats was all very entertaining.

For dinner, you entered a big hall where you are asked to sit on mattresses on the floor. There were several people who served the food.  As soon as you sit down they start serving the food, and it did not stop. You are served somewhere around 15 to 20 dishes, there were so many different food dishes that I really can’t recollect extactly, but all traditional Rajasthani dishes.  It felt homely, and I can’t remember the last time I had so much food before!   My stomach was packed and I had a smile on my face from all the delicious, wonderful food.  All pictures are from Choki Dhani, what an unforgettable, magical evening :-)))

Bangkok & Phuket Island, Thailand

Bangkok is a cultural and spiritual place, with so much history and so many things to see and do; you hardly know where to start.  From the night life, ritzy shopping malls, water sports, stunning temples, colorful festivals, mouth-watering delicacies, world class facilities, enchanting islands and beaches.  Bangkok is one the top destinations to visit in the world, with different people coming from all different places around the globe, this place in one global mesh.

Just a few of the top, must-see spots in Bangkok:

Wat Arun meaning the Temple of Dawn.  This temple is impressive and stunning, and one of the most recognized in Southeast Asia. Constructed during the first half of the 19th century, the ornate floral pattern decked out in glazed porcelain is stunning up close.  It is decorated by bits of porcelain which had previously been used as ballast by boats coming to Bangkok from China.  It was thrilling, but a little scary walking up the very steep stairs to the top, which gives a nice view of the Chao Phraya river.  Another wonderful temple to see in Bangkok is Wat Pho.  It is one of the most impressive, being the largest and oldest in Thailand.

The Grand Palace.  The Grand Palace is where the kings of Thailand reside.  It is full of luxury and majesty.  Built in 1782 and for 150 years the home of the Thai King, the Royal court and the administrative seat of government, the Grand Palace continue to have visitors in awe with its beautiful architecture and intricate detail.  Grand Palace is an absolute MUST, as it is an outstanding architectural achievement, which also houses the infamous Emerald Buddha.  It is recommended that you do not wear shorts, but if you dress inappropriately, they have clothing you can rent during your tour.

Chinatown in Yaroawat.  This Chinatown is packed with culture, full of market stalls and gold shops.  During major festivities like the Chinese New Year and the Vegetarian Festival, Chinatown is a must visit.  Also, don’t forget the Floating Market.  The infamous market were the Thais sell their fresh produce on boats. The market is about 80 Kilometers outside of Bangkok.  Everyday hundreds of boats crowd the market area.  You will be able to travel around in a boat and see a little of Thai village life, although do remember that this is now a very famous excursion, so it will not be your normal Thai village.

National Museum.  This museum which is within walking distance from the Grand Palace is one of the largest in Southeast Asia.  The museum was once used as a palace and consists of several old yet beautiful buildings. The museum houses many artifacts found from all parts of the country, ranging from Neolithic, Sukhothai and Ayutthaya times, to modern Bangkok. The admission fee is 40 baht per person, and the museum is open everyday except Mondays, Tuesdays and National holidays, from 9 am to 4 pm.

Definitely visit one of the many beautiful islands of Thailand.  I went to Phuket Island for two nights, it was a nice break from the bustling and banging Bangkok.  My favorite part of Phuket Island was my Thai massage right on the beach J