Recently, Trip Advisor posted the Traveler’s Choice Awards Top 25 Destinations in India. I particularly love reviewing an award list when selected by everyday travelers. Admittedly, I expected to see a few of the destinations, including #2 Varanasi, #9 Jaipur, #12 Udaipur, and #16 Goa. However, I was pleasantly surprised to see #3 Manali, #11 Hampi, #15 Shimla, and #25 Kodaikanal.
The #1 destination was Leh, the capital of Ladakh. And so it seems this hidden treasure is now becoming a popular haven for travelers! Back in 2009, I wrote about Leh’s untouched splendor in Destination: Ladakh. Over the past couple years, we have seen quite a surge in the interest to experience this remote region in Jammu and Kashmir.
I was also happy to see Darjeeling awarded as the #4 destination. Many travelers are quite familiar with the Darjeeling tea varieties but seldom include a visit to this Himalayan region that blends Indian, Tibetan, Nepali, and Bengali traditions. I have discussed the attractions of Darjeeling in many of our posts, and our Eastern Odyssey tour is featured in our most recent video, An Indian Experience.
One year from now, I will be interested to review the 2012 awarded destinations and compare the trends of travelers worldwide!
Sodha Travel is excited to announce a special price on a 4 day/3 night package to beautiful Goa. Goa has notably been called The Pearl of the Orient and India’s Paradise. Settled by the Portuguese in the 15th century, the region intricately blends European heritage and Indian traditions.
This package is available from either Delhi or Mumbai, and includes roundtrip domestic airfare, airport transfers, and 4 days/3 nights at the beautiful Lemon Tree Resort in Candolim. For only $399/person from Delhi or $349/person from Mumbai*, this price also includes daily breakfast buffet and all taxes. *Based on double occupancy*
Relax on the pristine beaches, shop in the vibrant bazaars, dine and dance on the white sand shores, discover the hidden European pastry shops, hike the forests, and discover the local flavor of this unique paradise. I recommend sampling the many restaurants along the beaches that provide private moonlit dining on the shores. The seafood is delicious and incorporates Indian spices to enhance the flavor. If interested, additional excursions and/or tours can be arranged.
This price is only valid for travel completed by October 30th, so contact us for more information or to book your reservation.

