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The Best Places to go to Bhutan in 2025

Posted on by praxis

Introduction

You might have often seen the country of Bhutan mentioned as the world’s happiest, and it is all for a good reason. Focusing on metrics like Gross National Happiness, the government has its unique charm with its blend of culture, nature, and calm vibes.

 

Praxis Holidays, a luxury travel and tour operator in India, capitalised adequately on this opportunity with excellent results. Here are some of the best places to visit and enjoy in Bhutan this travel season.

 

1. Paro – Gateway to the Kingdom

  • This scenic place is home to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Fortified monasteries are otherwise called Dzongs, so this should clear any confusion should you travel over there and keep hearing this term.
  • Paro Dzong and scenic riverside strolls are major highlights, but the international airport at Paro is part of your fly-in itinerary. It is famous for being tricky to operate flights on. And the view is remarkable, with the airstrip located in the meeting valley of two mountains.

2. Thimphu – Where Tradition Meets Trend

  • Bhutan’s capital city, Thimphu, is one of the best tourist destinations that Bhutan has to offer. Thimphu illustrates the art, history, culture, and architecture of Bhutan.
  • One of the largest cities of the Kingdom of Bhutan, Thimphu is a mix of culture and heritage from the old and the new generations. And it’s become an important tourist destination with mostly fascinating and jaw-dropping destinations.
  • Don’t miss the Buddha Dordenma, a gigantic Shakyamuni Buddha statue in the mountains of Bhutan, celebrating the 60th anniversary of the fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, made of bronze and gilded in gold.
  • Tashichho Dzong, otherwise known as the ‘Fortress of the Glorious Religion’ or ‘Fortress of Auspicious Doctrine’, is an impressive structure that houses the throne room and offices of the king, the secretariat and the ministries of home affairs and finance. So it should give you a glimpse into Bhutan’s Royal History.

 

3. Punakha – Nature, History & Tranquillity

  • The majestic Punakha Dzong fortress is situated at the confluence of the two rivers, Po Chhu (Male River) and Mo Chhu (Female River) in Punakha Valley. The sheer size, architecture and the rivers flowing around it are a sight to behold and etches itself in one’s memory. The Punakha Dzong is not to be missed as it has deep religious, cultural and historical significance to Bhutan.
  • Suspension bridge adventures and riverside picnics. As one of Bhutan’s oldest and longest suspension bridges, it offers fantastic views of the valley and mountains. Spanning around 170 metres, it’s sure to give you an adrenaline rush while walking on it.

 

4. Trongsa – The Heart of Bhutan’s History

  • Trongsa Dzong is straight out of a movie set. This commanding dzong, high above the roaring Mangde Chhu (a river), is perhaps the most spectacularly sited Dzong in Bhutan, with a sheer drop to the south that often just disappears into cloud and mist.

5. Bumthang – Bhutan’s Cultural Soul

  • Bumthang is a cluster of valleys filled with sacred sites and serene trails.
  • The Jakar Dzong, meaning ‘the Castle of the White Bird’, was built in 1667 and can only be accessed with a guide, as it is a combination of government offices and a dzong, allowing only a tour of the courtyard and one temple. The two courtyards are the most eye-catching as the area is narrow, and the surrounding buildings are very tall, with good views outside the dzong.

6. Phobjikha Valley – Nature’s Peaceful Masterpiece

  • A glacial valley that feels like a breath of fresh air.
  • Spot the rare black-necked cranes (especially from Nov–Feb).
    A great spot for hiking, biking, and quiet reflection.

7. Gangtey – Rustic Charm & Highland Beauty

  • Gangtey has all the raw, untouched beauty you’d expect. One should consider a visit to the Gangtey Monastery, mingle with locals, and soak in the highland serenity.

 

Wrap-Up: Why 2025 / 2026 is the Perfect Year for Best of Bhutan

If you’re looking to travel, you need to get your permits for travel to Bhutan. A luxury travel and tour operator like Praxis Holidays will tailor-make your tour itinerary, including permits, travel, stay, etc, for Bhutan. Bhutan is the best mix of luxury, culture, and nature.

The final tip: Go slow, take it all in, and let Bhutan work its magic.

Exploring Vietnam: A Journey Through Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Ho Chi Minh City

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If you were to look at Vietnam on the map, you would find it difficult to properly make out its shape along the vast Asian continent, and yet it is a fascinating, diverse and history-laden country. Located in the eastern edge of mainland Southeast Asia, it is undoubtedly a land of rich history, with stunning landscapes and dynamic cities and is a destination that appeals to travellers with open arms. 

This was close to what I had gone through when I recently embarked on a 10-day journey across Vietnam, covering Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). All thanks to Praxis Holidays, a Luxury Travel and Tour Operator in India, whose overall planning and management was excellent, and I can’t wait to share my experience of the same.

Day 1-3: Hanoi – The Heart of Vietnam

First Impressions of Hanoi

While deboarding the plane in Hanoi, you might feel like stepping into a whole new world, and you would be right to assume so. The air, filled with the aroma of street food and the bustling energy of scooters zipping through the narrow streets, ought to give anyone an instant adrenaline rush, as it did for me. 

Exploring the Old Quarter

The Old Quarter was an incredible spot with streets which was lined with colonial architecture, street vendors, and you should try out the frothy egg coffee at Cafe Giang. Egg coffee mixes a sort of creamy custard with robust Vietnamese coffee, which to me was a highlight of this place.

Hoan Kiem Lake: A Peaceful Escape

Need an escape from the hustle of the Old Quarter? A short walk from there should bring you to Hoan Kiem Lake. When I visited it in the early morning, there were locals who were practising Tai Chi, and the way it blended with the surroundings created a serene atmosphere that was worlds apart from the chaos earlier, so I suggest doing the same. 

 

Also worth noting is the iconic red bridge leading to Ngoc Son Temple, which is a perfect spot for photos. The temple is on an island, and the bridge is the only way in on foot.

A Taste of Hanoi: Street Food Heaven

A foreign trip would have been incomplete without indulging in its street food. So I made it a point to try as many local dishes as possible, without going overboard by overeating. 

The first and most common of them all will most likely be Pho (pronounced ‘fuh’), a fragrant noodle soup with tender beef and fresh herbs, which had become like a daily ritual for me. 

Then came bun cha, a dish of grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles and a tangy dipping sauce. 

Day 4-5: Halong Bay – A Natural Wonder

Setting Sail Through the Limestone Karsts

Halong Bay, which was next on my bucket list, did not disappoint me at all. Booking a 2-day, 1-night cruise with a mid-range company was genuinely worth it. Seeing the boat glide through the emerald waters, the towering limestone karsts that seemed to rise dramatically from the sea mesmerised me, even as an idle viewer. 

These limestone karsts are formed when the bedrock dissolves, creating these types of landforms and landscapes.

Opting for a Luxury Travel and Tour Operator, like I did,  can elevate this experience immensely, thereby offering private guided tours and premium kayaking routes to explore the most secluded spots in Halong Bay so that you can maximise the benefits of your trip abroad.

Day 6-10: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – The Pulse of Vietnam

The Energy of Saigon

Ho Chi Minh City, otherwise known as Saigon, is in complete contrast to Hanoi. It has the pulsing energy of a metropolis where ancient temples are right alongside sleek skyscrapers. My stay over there ensured I was within walking distance, as it is the heart of the city.

The War Remnants Museum: 

The War Remnants Museum, as you might have guessed, presented a sobering perspective on the Vietnam War via impactful photographs and displays. It’s a challenging visit, but also an undeniably crucial one, as it allows us to learn Vietnam’s history and strength in difficult times.

Ben Thanh Market:

On a lighter note, I strolled through Ben Thanh Market to experience Vietnam’s local culture, from aromatic spices to artisanal souvenirs; the market presented a sensory feast to my foreign senses. 

My negotiation skills were subpar though, so I ended up leaving with several lovely silk scarves and a hand-painted ceramic, both of which I certainly don’t regret purchasing and the bowl itself now proudly resides on my kitchen shelf. 

Cu Chi Tunnels:

A day’s excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels can be a potentially essential viewing for history enthusiasts. Navigating the cramped, subterranean passages utilised by the Viet Cong during the conflict, one can only wonder how these people fought in such conditions, even won in the end.

Culinary Explorations in Saigon 

The street cuisine in Saigon is delicious, as are most exotic foods to my foreign tongue. The banh mi, a renowned Vietnamese sandwich, was irresistible, and it was followed by com tam (broken rice), whose accompaniments were grilled pork, pickled veggies, and a fried egg. 

My participation in a community food tour one night easily became one of my best choices, and I believe it’s the simplest method to uncover hidden treasures and popular local spots. 

 

Final Thoughts

I feel that it would be a significant understatement if I were to say that my experience in Vietnam was truly remarkable. A lot of praise should go to the Luxury Travel and Tour Operator called Praxis Holidays, which made my Vietnam stay and experience memorable, worthwhile and without untoward incidents or unwanted surprises like long delays. It might be worth considering them for the other tourist destinations that they offer on their website.

The historic lanes of Hanoi,the  pleasant and idyllic viewing of Halong Bay and the vibrant pulse of Ho Chi Minh City, each instant felt like an exploration. I could go on, but I won’t spoil more for eager thrill seekers and travel enthusiasts.

Vietnam is a nation that embraces you warmly, delights your palate with exceptional tastes, and provides you with tales to cherish for eternity. I was only aware of Vietnam from a historical point of view, but that changed with this particular visit. If Vietnam isn’t included in your travel plans yet, it’s time to rectify that.

Introducing Praxis Holidays

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Praxis Holidays LLP, based in Chennai, India, was founded in January 2018. Registered with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (Govt. of India) under ID number AAL-8342, the company is led by Mr. B. Vanchi and Dr. Pravin Kumar Vanchi, who are both passionate travellers.

Praxis Holidays offers tailor-made vacations that match the exact needs and preferences of every traveller. Our experienced team of travel advisors has been creating personalised travel plans for our clients since 2018.

Praxis Holidays

 

What We Do

We design personalised tours tailored to each client’s requirements. We do not sell ready-made travel packages unless they suit you perfectly. Instead, we connect with you, understand your travel needs and then craft a trip that suits your interests, calendar, and your budget.

 

Whether you’re searching for a family holiday, a romantic holiday, a luxury holiday, or solo travel, we have the appropriate experience for you.

 

Our Top Experiences

We offer a wide variety of travel experiences so that everyone will find something according to their needs:

  • Wildlife Safaris
  • Romantic Holidays
  • Pilgrimage Tours
  • Nature and Adventure Travel
  • Luxury Getaways
  • Honeymoon Trips
  • Heritage Tours
  • Family Vacations
  • Cultural Experiences
  • Beach Holidays

If you‘re unsure where to start, please let us know what kind of experience you are looking for. Our team will recommend the best places that suit your desire.

Our Signature Tours

Praxis Holidays offers more than 300 tailor-made tours, each designed to focus on comfort, quality, and personalised service. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, we can still create a custom plan just for you.

Some of our top-selling tours include:

  • Ultimate Dubai & Abu Dhabi – From ₹145,000 – 7 Days
  • Luxury Sun City, Johannesburg, Sabi Sands Safari, Cape Town in South Africa from 3,55,000 INR onwards
  • Best of Dubai – Family Adventure – From ₹100,000 – 5 Days
  • Luxury Bhutan – Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey – From ₹125,000 – 8 days
  •  Best of Turkey – From ₹180,000 – 10 Days
  • Best of Bali – from ₹90,000 – 7 days
  • Luxury Botswana Safari from ₹4,85,000 – 6 days

 

Spiritual Pilgrimages: Amarnath Yatra, Chardham Yatra and Kailash Manasarovar Yatra

 

Each year, Praxis Holidays conducts and runs three of India‘s sacred pilgrimages, Amarnath Yatra, Chardham Yatra and Kailash Manasarovar Yatra. We do not miss these, and neither should you.

 

Chardham Yatra 

 

Chardham Yatra is one of the most popular pilgrimage tours in India, undertaken every year by lakhs of pilgrims. It is a journey to four holy places in Uttarakhand: Haridwar, Barkot, Yamunotri, Harsil, Gangotri, Guptkashi, Kedarnath, Joshimath, Badrinath, Rudraprayag and Rishikesh.

 

  • Suitable for seekers of spirituality who wish to cleanse their souls and attain inner peace
  • The Uttarakhand government has established mechanisms for a secure and organised pilgrimage: Compulsory Registration, Online and Offline Registration Centres
  • Praxis Holidays will arrange the entire tour logistics, stay, and travel assistance to make the Yatra experience smooth.

 

Amarnath Yatra 

 

  • Amarnath Yatra is a profoundly spiritual Hindu trek to the Amarnath Cave in Jammu & Kashmir.
  • Held every year during July and August
  • The cave is famous for the naturally occurring ice lingam of Lord Shiva, which appears and vanishes with the moon.
  • Attracts thousands of pilgrims across the world
  • Hiking up through the Himalayas to reach the shrine is a big part of the experience.
  • Praxis Holidays ensures you have the required permits, travel bookings, and guidance to achieve this high-altitude trek safely and comfortably.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra

  • Kailash Manasarovar Yatra is a pilgrimage for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon believers, leading to the heavenly abode of Lord Shiva.
  • Organised every summer  (June to mid-September)
  • Mount Kailash is considered to be the centre of the world and a point of spiritual emancipation.
  • The helicopter and plane route through Lucknow–Nepalgunj–Simikot–Purang offers quicker connectivity with stunning sights.
  • Thousands take up this faith journey every year.
  • Praxis Holidays organises all the needed permits, flying, comfortable stays, and experience guidance to try and ensure that you do this high-altitude trek easily and safely. 

 

Why Choose Praxis Holidays?

  • Personalised Travel Arrangements – Designed according to your wishes
  • Experienced Travel Advisors – With in-depth destination knowledge
  • Premium Quality and Luxury – Only reliable and high-quality services
  • Extensive Variety of Experience – For all travel tastes
  • Excellent Support – Prior, throughout, and after your stay

 

Let’s Plan Your Trip

If you’re ready to reserve your next holiday break, see us online. Whatever you want – to relax, to learn, or to celebrate – Praxis Holidays will guarantee that your holiday is trouble-free, well-organised, and worth the memory.

 

Travel with Praxis Holidays – where quality, comfort, and personalisation come together just for you.

Best Places to Visit in Dubai (2025): Your complete guide to an unforgettable trip

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Introduction

Imagine watching the sunset from the world’s tallest building, riding camels in the golden desert, and dining under the stars. Dubai isn’t just a city. It’s an interface with cultural heritage, providing experiences you will not find anywhere else in the world. It could meet the interests of all types of travellers, whether they are looking for luxury, adventure, culture, or family fun.

From sky-high towers and beautiful malls to traditional souks and desert safaris, Dubai’s blend of modernity and tradition is truly unmatched. If you’re searching for the best places to visit in Dubai, this guide will cover them all.

Dubai remains incredibly connected around the world, along with being a safe environment; its infrastructure and services have been designed to provide tourism in a hospitality economy efficiently. There is much to see, experience, and remember!

This ultimate travel guide shows you how to explore Dubai efficiently and make every moment count.

Safety, Security & Realities of Dubai

Dubai is amongst the safest cities in the world, with very low crime rates, strong laws to protect tourists, women, and families.


Security in public transportation, tourist locations and hotels is often exceptional, and everything can be done with the stress-free convenience of taxis or Luxury Chauffeur-driven vehicles who will be there at your disposal.

Dubai is a modern city with a welcoming attitude and is incredibly safe. All in all, Dubai is a must-visit destination for all sorts of travellers. Many of the best places to visit in Dubai are built with tourist safety in mind, making the city enjoyable for everyone.

Best Time to Visit Dubai

Best Season: October to March. Pleasant weather, outdoor events.

Avoid: June–August. Extreme heat, indoor-only experiences.

Ideal Duration & Itinerary: 7 Days in Dubai

Day 1: Arrival & Downtown Dubai

  • Burj Khalifa
    The tallest structure globally, the Burj Khalifa, offers breathtaking views of Dubai’s skyline and the desert. Sunset is the golden hour to enjoy beautiful sights and capture the best moments.Truly one of the best places to visit in Dubai.
  • Dubai Mall & Dubai Fountain Show
    Start by exploring one of the largest malls in the world with more than 1,200 stores, an aquarium, and an indoor waterfall. The fountain shows a musical, light-and-water spectacle that runs every 30 minutes in the evening.
  • Dinner – Souk Al Bahar
    A beautiful Arabian-style marketplace next to the Dubai Mall.
  1. For Luxury experience: Dine at Atmosphere (the world’s highest restaurant).
  2. For Budget: Grab fusion bites at Social House with fountain views.

Day 2: Culture & Old Dubai

  • Al Fahidi Historical District
     Step back in time with restored wind-tower buildings, art galleries, and cultural centres. Representing a pre-modern Dubai.
  • Dubai Museum and Al-Seef
    Located inside the 18th-century Al Fahidi Fort. Showcases Dubai’s transformation from a traditional fishing village to its current global city. Al Seef has a heritage style with modern eateries and shops.
  • Abra Ride across Dubai Creek
     A traditional wooden boat ride for just AED 1. Offers a peaceful, nostalgic look at the city’s trading roots and is one of the best places to visit in Dubai for culture lovers.

Day 3: Desert Adventure

  • Morning Relaxation or Beach Time
     Relax at Kite Beach or JBR Beach – clean, family-friendly beach with cafés, watersports, and incredible views.
  • Evening Desert Safari
     An adrenaline-fueled trip over the sand dunes followed by camel rides, henna painting, falcon photography, and a live BBQ dinner under the stars. Cultural shows include belly dancing and Tanoura. Desert Safari is often included among the best places to visit in Dubai.

Day 4: Modern Attractions and Activities

  • Museum of the Future
     A visually captivating Museum powered by AI, showcasing science, tech, and sustainability. The experience is immersive and thought-provoking for visitors of all ages.
  • Dubai Frame
     A giant picture frame-shaped observatory building to look at old and new Dubai. The glass floor walkway at the top is thrilling and symbolic!
  • Mall of the Emirates
     It is a luxury mall with high-end brands, fine dining, and indoor entertainment options like cinemas, arcades, and the famous Ski Dubai.
  • Ski Dubai
    Located inside the Mall of Emirates. An actual indoor ski resort with slopes, penguin encounters, snowboarding, and snowball fights! remains one of the best places to visit in Dubai for families and couples alike

Day 5: Beach & Water Park

  • Atlantis the Palm: Explore the Aquaventure water park, Dubai’s best and the beaches of Atlantis the Palm. A must on the list of the best places to visit in Dubai.

Day 6: Theme Park Day

Choose Between Dubai Parks and Resorts
  A mega complex with:

  1. Motiongate: Hollywood-themed rides.
  2. Legoland: For kids aged 2–12.
  3. Bollywood Parks: For fans of Indian cinema and dance.
  4. IMG Worlds of Adventure: The world’s largest indoor theme park. Perfect for kids and adults, making it one of the best places to visit in Dubai for thrill-seekers.

Evening:

  • La Mer Beach or Global Village
    • La Mer Beach: Trendy beachfront with street art, restaurants, and a waterpark.
    • Global Village (seasonal from October to April): International pavilions, street food, cultural shows, and carnival rides, all in one location.

Day 7: Leisure & Departure

  • Miracle Garden (Seasonal: October to April)
     The world’s most extensive flower garden with over 150 million flowers laid out into shapes; heart tunnels, Disney characters, and even aircraft covered in flowers. Truly one of the best places to visit in Dubai during cooler months.
  • Souvenir Shopping at City Walk or Mercato Mall
    • City Walk: An upscale open-air lifestyle experience with designer boutiques and cafes.
    • Mercato Mall: A European-style shopping centre with charm, ideal for a quieter shopping experience.
  • Relaxation or Spa Day
     Treat yourself with a hammam or luxury wash at Talise Spa, Anantara Spa, or a local wellness centre before you head home refreshed.

Traveller-Specific Stay & Attractions

For Bachelors

  • Skydive Dubai for a thrilling freefall over Palm Jumeirah
  • Party at WHITE Dubai, Soho Garden to experience top nightlife and DJ venues
  • Dune buggy adventures at a high-adrenaline desert off-roading

Stay at: JBR – Rixos the Palm – Central, vibrant locations.

For Families with Kids

  • Aquaventure Waterpark, which has giant slides and lazy rivers
  • Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo to see sharks, rays, and exotic fish
  • Motiongate & Legoland for Movie-themed fun for all ages

Stay at: Atlantis The Palm or Jumeirah Beach Hotel – Family-friendly beach resorts.

For Couples

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride for a romantic sunrise over the desert
  • Private yacht dinner cruise for a luxury dining on the water
  • Dinner in the Sky with skyline views

Stay at: Burj Al Arab (luxury), Anantara The Palm (Budget) – Elegant and intimate stays.

For Older Adults

  • Heritage Village to explore Emirati culture and crafts
  • Sunset show cruise for a relaxing ride with scenic views
  • Spa and wellness centres, rejuvenating therapies, and massages

Stay at: The Ritz-Carlton DIFC or Al Seef Heritage Hotel – Peaceful, premium accommodations.

Accommodation Options (Budget to Luxury)

Budget (Under $100/night)

  • Rove Hotels (Downtown, Marina, City Centre)
  • Premier Inn Dubai Al Jaddaf

Mid-Range ($100–300/night)

  • Hyatt Place
  • Aloft Palm Jumeirah
  • JA Ocean View Hotel

Luxury ($300+ per night)

  • Burj Al Arab
  • Atlantis The Palm
  • Armani Hotel (inside Burj Khalifa)

Food & Culinary Spots in Dubai

Budget-Friendly

  • Al Ustad Special Kebab: An iconic Iranian restaurant known for juicy kebabs and a quirky retro design.
  • Automatic Restaurant (Lebanese): Cheap Lebanese chain serving delicious shawarma, hummus, and grilled meats.

Mid-Range

  • PF Chang’s: American Chinese favourite known for bold flavours, dim sum, and trendy designs.
  • Din Tai Fung: Famous Taiwanese chain known for xiao long bao (soup dumplings) and noodle dishes.
  • Reif Kushiyaki: Innovative Japanese street food with a twist, created by Chef Reif Othman.

Luxury

  • Zuma: Luxury trendy Japanese izakaya with sushi, robata grill items, and a cool vibe.
  • Nobu: Famous Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant, known for its black cod miso.
  • Atmosphere (Burj Khalifa): Fine dining on the 122nd floor with views and gourmet European cuisine.

Tips & Secret Strategies for a Smarter Dubai Trip

  • Obtain a Nol Card for convenient public transport.
     The Nol card is Dubai’s rechargeable smart card, which you can use for the metro, buses, water buses, and even for parking. It is convenient and cheaper than a single journey ticket for Dubai public transport.
  • Book Major Attractions in Advance
     Book tickets early for high-demand experiences, such as Burj Khalifa at sunset, the Museum of the Future, and Desert Safari. Early reservations help you avoid long queues, secure your preferred time slots & come with online discounts.
  • Visit on Weekdays for Fewer Crowds
     Dubai’s weekend is Saturday & Sunday. Visiting the major attractions on Monday to Friday is generally a better time, as it’s less busy than the weekends.

Conclusion

Dubai is much more than a destination: it’s an experience filled with culture, luxury, and adventure. Plan it right, because it is essential to experience innovative, safe, and unforgettable moments. This guide highlights the best places to visit in Dubai to make your trip unforgettable.

Dubai assures an unforgettable journey. Just think of it as a trip you are going to take; after all, a memorable week is starting here.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2

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We a group of friends had been september 2017 to kailash Manasarovar . the trip for our group of 32 pilgrims was meticulously planned and organized by Mr P B Vanchi , promoter of Praxis Holidays. We were very fortune to be at Lake Manasarovar on 3rd September 17…

5 of the Best Luxury Safari Lodges

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Whether it’s the ultimate honeymoon holiday or a once-in-a-lifetime getaway with your family and friends, there are a handful of exquisite luxury safari lodges. Scintillating safaris, spectacular scenery and surreal sophistication, s geared perfectly for honeymoon couples…

Why we should explore africa by walking safari?

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There are five species of rhino that can still be found in the wild, namely the black (5000 animals) and white (19000 animals) rhinos of sub-Saharan Africa, the greater one-horned rhino of India, (3500 animals) the Sumatran rhino (80 animals) found on the Indonesian is…

How to Survive a Walking Safari in Africa

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Do you have a death wish?” “Are you crazy?” “Did you make out your will?” These were all questions posed to me by friends, family, and neighbors when I told them I was off to South Luangwa National Park in Zambia to take a walking safari, where, instead of seeing wildlife from the relative safety confines of a tricked out Jeep, I would be traversing the grasslands on foot. Regular safaris – once you get past the initial excitement of seeing your first lion, zebra, leopard, rhino, or elephant in the wild – are safe (or at least safer as you are in the confines of a metal structure) but can be… challenging.

A normal day in a safari camp goes like this: Wake up at dawn, have breakfast, get in a truck and go find some animals for up to four hours. Return to camp, have lunch, take a siesta and go back out for an evening drive at around 4 p.m. During the evening drive, you will likely stop at some beautiful spot with expansive views of the sunset for a “Sundowner” – a drink next to the vehicle. This is usually the only point during the drive in which you are allowed out of the truck. After drinks are drunk and the sun has set, you re-enter the vehicle and try to spot night hunts, returning to camp around 8 p.m. for supper. Repeat this schedule for the next few days until you leave.

“I sink under the weight of the splendour of these visions! A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring”

At first, it is exciting. Visitors get to see every animal they’ve ever heard of or spied on the small screen.

But by the third day, seven to eight hours in a vehicle can wear on one’s patience. And the unimaginable happens – what was initially so exciting becomes quickly mundane. Especially if you don’t come across a pride of lions or any actual action.

Tips for Walking Safari

  • Always start out early in the morning. In the mornings, the predators are presumable sated from catching and killing some prey the night before and trying to catch some sleep. Therefore, they are less likely to surround you and rip your throat out. This is a good thing.
  • You can walk for as long as you like but should stop around 3 p.m. when the predators wake up from long naps and start to realize they might be hungry again. I ended up walking for around four hours every day and was happy to head back once the midday sun went into full effect.
  • Wear muted colors
  • Walk in a single file line. At the head of the line will be a guard from the National Park services who carries a rifle (just in case). Behind him is the head guide, the visitors and finally, another guide.
  • Keep voices low. If you talk too loudly all the animals will run off.
  • If you should happen upon a pride of lions (and we did) – stop. Group together and follow the guide and guard’s suggestion (which usually means be quiet and move slowly out of the way).
  • Drink plenty of water. In the mornings it is cool but it heats up real quick! Dehydration is real and there’s nothing worse than being stuck out in the bush with dry mouth.
  • Avoid all bodies of water – they are likely full of crocodiles and hippos.
  • Be aware of what’s in the trees and the tall grass. Lions and leopards are masters at camouflage and often, unless you are a trained expert (which, thankfully, your guides are), you won’t notice them until you are literally on them. Or under them.
  • While big cats may be the scariest animals, elephants, buffalo, and hippos are just as – if not more- dangerous. Keep a good distance from them at all times.
  • Relax and have fun.
  • The first day on foot was relatively calm. Fred led me through the bush and from distances I spotted impala, puku and other antelope, but it was more about what Fred called “behind the scenes.” He taught me how to identify scat – important signs to know where animals have been, what they are eating and if they are healthy – different trees, ground plants and other parts of the ecosystem. We went through a vast area of dead trees and stumps left over from the poaching in the 1970s and 1980s.
  • “There used to be over 100,000 elephants and 4,000 black rhino in this park,” Fred said. “The elephants are very destructive. They will eat the bark of trees and rub against them until they fall down. However, through their scat, the trees get replanted. In less than ten years starting in 1976, 90 percent of the elephant population and 100 percent of the rhino population were wiped out but poaching and this area never recovered. It never got the chance to get replanted.”

King of the Forest

On the second day of walking, we hit paydirt. We followed a group of impala to a small herd of giraffe who allowed us to get relatively close. Suddenly, they galloped off and, in the distance, baboons started barking.

“Lions are near,” said. Ahead of us, in tall grass, a pride of lions was lounging, camouflaging perfectly into their surroundings.

The End

My heart was pumping. Our guard had his shotgun at the ready just in case, but it only had four bullets. There were five in the pride.

Following protocol, we silently grouped together, and slowly circumvented the pride.

It was thrilling. And fascinating. And as we made our way back to camp, we caught a herd of impala and zebra, walking single file, just like us, the other way.

It felt as if I had become part of the bush, part of the daily drama of life and death in the Luangwa crater. And that was worth it all.

Why Vacations Matter?

Posted on by praxis

Exploring the beautiful places with family gives a break from the routine environment. Family vacations are real stress-busters for people. People get a chance to be away from the monotonous routine. The busy and stressful life is good for a positive mind set and life style…

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Posted on by praxis

We a group of friends had been september 2017 to kailash Manasarovar . the trip for our group of 32 pilgrims was meticulously planned and organized by Mr P B Vanchi , promoter of Praxis Holidays. We were very fortune to be at Lake Manasarovar on 3rd September 17…

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