Dekho Apna Desh
Dil se! Pyaar se! Samman se!
Lahaul-Spiti is a district in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The ancient monasteries here narrate stories from centuries past. The village of Komic, situated at an altitude of 4,587 meters, is connected by the world’s highest motorable road. In the local language, Komic means "eye of a snow cock."
This region is home to Hikkim, which houses the world’s highest post office at an altitude of 4,400 meters. This post office has been run by the same postmaster for decades and still functions regularly. Travelers especially enjoy sending postcards from here, stamped at the world’s highest post office, to their loved ones.
Langza village in this region was once submerged under the Tethys Sea. Even today, you can find marine fossils over 50 million years old, including ammonites and other ancient marine creatures. Because of this, locals refer to it as the "Fossil Village."
The sky over Spiti is considered the clearest and darkest in India, making it a favorite for astronomers who often organize sky-watching and stargazing events here.
In Pin Valley National Park, one can still spot the rare and majestic snow leopard roaming in the wild. The park is also home to the Siberian ibex, Tibetan gazelle, and several rare bird species.
In Gue village, near the Indo-Tibetan border, there's a monastery that preserves a 500-year-old naturally mummified Buddhist monk. No chemicals were used for preservation—the dry, cold climate and high altitude naturally mummified the body. This site holds special significance for the Dalai Lama, who has often referred to Spiti as one of the purest lands for spiritual practice in the modern world.
Historically, Lahaul-Spiti was a key trade route between India and Tibet. Even today, several trekking trails follow those ancient caravan paths. Due to its isolation, Spiti’s culture has remained untouched and well-preserved. For nearly six to seven months a year, Spiti is cut off from the rest of the world due to snow, keeping it shielded from the impacts of modernity. This is why one can still witness authentic Buddhist culture and native dialects here.
So, what are you waiting for to visit such a dreamland?
Oh! I didn’t know this…
Lofoten Islands, located in northern Norway above the Arctic Circle, are part of Nordland County and stretch into the Norwegian Sea. This region is renowned for its towering mountain peaks, breathtaking coastlines, and charming fishing villages.
The Lofoten Islands are rich in marine biodiversity. For thousands of years, they’ve been a hub for Arctic cod (known as "skrei") fishing. Every winter, these cod migrate to Lofoten to spawn. The waters here are among the richest fishing grounds in Europe, as a majority of Atlantic cod come here during the spawning season. Traditional red fishermen’s cabins, known as rorbuer, were initially built just for this season. Fishermen from across Norway would gather here and stay during cod season. This natural phenomenon has played a crucial role in shaping the economy and culture of the region.
Lofoten is also home to sea eagles, cormorants, colorful puffins, and other seabirds. At the end of the E10 highway lies a tiny village with a one-letter name, “Å”, which is among the shortest place names in the world. In Old Norse, “Å” literally means "stream."
Here, you can experience 24 hours of daylight in summer and 24 hours of night in winter. These extreme conditions deeply impact the local way of life. Residents adapt to seasonal mood shifts and changes in their daily routines.
Near Borg, archaeologists discovered the grand house of a Viking chieftain, measuring 83 meters (272 feet) in length. This house is now part of the Lofoten Viking Museum, which preserves many artifacts from the Iron Age and Viking era.
Some parts of Lofoten show magnetic anomalies, believed to be due to the mineral-rich mountains. At Unstad Beach, you can go cold-water surfing in a wetsuit. The annual Arctic Surf Festival is held here, offering the unique experience of surfing within the Arctic Circle.
The weather on the islands can change dramatically and quickly. In winter, tourists flock here to witness the Northern Lights—with lighting that changes every moment, mesmerizing artists and photographers alike. One moment, it’s stormy skies; the next, it’s golden light pouring over the landscape. People are left in awe, soaking in this magical spectacle of nature.
If you'd like to visit this extraordinary place, join Veena World's "All of Scandinavia" tour!
Travelling is a passion!
I’m Jeevrekha Kulkarni, and I live in Mira Road. I’ve been travelling with Veena World for the past 12 years. I used to book my tours from their Borivali office, but for the past few years, I’ve been booking through their Mira Road office, which is much closer now.
My first tour was to Thailand in 2014, and since then, I’ve done 21 tours. I’ve travelled with family on a few occasions, but since my husband is working, we haven’t always been able to travel together. And because travelling is my true passion, I chose the Women’s Special tours. Since then, I’ve done around 12 to 13 Women’s Special tours.
Internationally, I’ve travelled to Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, Australia, Bali, Mauritius, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and the Europe tour covering 9 countries in 9 days. Within India, I’ve explored Rann Utsav, Marwad-Mewad Rajasthan, Andaman, Madhya Pradesh, Varanasi-Allahabad, Dharamshala-Dalhousie, and more.
I travel with Veena World because they cover most of the important destinations. I prefer travelling abroad because every single day of these tours offers something new, exciting, and different. You get to taste new cuisines, explore new cultures, and experience different environments—and I absolutely love that. The specially curated activities for us on tour really make us feel special.
Veena Tai herself has accompanied us on some of these tours. While I enjoy travelling with family, I love the freedom and carefree experience of travelling solo. You get your own space, with no responsibilities—something that feels liberating.
Out of all my tours, several places stood out. I especially loved the clear, pristine beaches of the Maldives—they’re the best! I also loved Europe for its diversity. Of course, visiting 9 countries in 9 days was a bit hectic, but still very enjoyable. I also liked Mauritius and the Andaman tour. Since I love beaches, all such tours remain special to me. I also remember the Singapore tour fondly—it was a luxurious experience.
Each tour has been special in its own way. I manage to go on at least 1 to 2 tours every year. I prefer Veena World because it’s just so comfortable. From their office staff to the tour managers, everyone is extremely cooperative. So I simply decide the dates and destination, and leave the rest to Veena World. I can travel worry-free.
My next dream destination is the USA, and I plan to make it happen soon!
- Jeevrekha Kulkarni, Mira Road, Mumbai
The Great Migration
This is considered the largest animal migration in the world. Over 1.5 million wildebeests, around 300,000 zebras, and hundreds of thousands of antelopes journey across Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara in a circular route during this time. The migration path spans roughly 800 to 1,000 kilometers. It is guided by rainfall patterns and the search for fresh grazing pastures.
This migration turns into a feast for predators like lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and crocodiles. During February and March, thousands of wildebeest calves are born daily, providing easy prey for carnivores. The birthing season, the routes, and the drama of the journey are truly fascinating to witness.
Wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes alert each other of approaching danger. Still, every year, about 250,000 animals die due to predation, starvation, exhaustion, or drowning. Male wildebeests also battle for dominance.
These animals can sense approaching rains and storms through smell in the vast grasslands. The best places to witness this spectacle are Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, Grumeti Reserve, Northern Serengeti, and Kenya’s Masai Mara.
So, when are you heading out to witness The Great Migration?
Private Holiday Ideas
Vietnam – A Trending Holiday Destination
A land filled with natural beauty, culture, and adventure – that’s Vietnam for you. With short haul flights and an easy visa process, this amazing country could be your perfect summer holiday escape!
Hanoi & Halong
- Experience gourmet dining, onboard spa, and private floating village excursions on an overnight cruise in Halong Bay.
- Enjoy kayaking adventures through the limestone mountains of Halong Bay.
- Choose from various types of cruises – day, overnight, party, or luxury – all in Halong Bay.
- Take a day trip to Ninh Binh for a boat ride on the winding Ngo Dong River, surrounded by lush green rice paddies.
- Explore Hanoi’s nightlife and street food on a vintage Vespa tour with a guide.
- Watch a traditional water puppet show and experience Vietnamese folklore.
- Sit at Hanoi’s famous Train Street, sip on a unique egg coffee, and feel the thrill of a train passing right beside you!
Hoi An & Da Nang
- Cycle through the ancient town of Hoi An and admire its charm.
- Learn lantern making from local artisans.
- Take a zip tour to the mystical Marble Mountains.
- Drift through Bay Mau Coconut Forest on a traditional bamboo basket boat.
- Enjoy a beautiful lantern-lit boat ride on the Hoi An River.
- Watch the spectacular fire & water show at Da Nang’s Dragon Bridge on weekends.
- Take a speedboat to Cham Island from Da Nang and go snorkeling.
Phu Quoc Island
- Ride the world’s longest sea-crossing cable car to Pineapple Island.
- Stay in Sunset Town, famous for its Italian architecture and quaint cafés.
- Visit top attractions like Vinpearl Safari, VinWonders, and Grand World.
- Explore the underwater coral gardens and vibrant marine life through scuba diving or sea walking.
- Enjoy grilled seafood and shopping at the Phu Quoc Night Market.
- Go island hopping, snorkeling, or simply relax on beautiful beaches.
Ho Chi Minh City
- Discover the underground world of the Viet Cong at Cu Chi Tunnels – hidden doors, bunkers, and even try rifle shooting.
- Take a day trip to Mui Ne to see the red and white sand dunes.
- Visit the creative Café Apartment building.
- Shop for souvenirs at Ben Thanh Market and other local craft markets.
So, are you ready to experience the magic of Vietnam this summer vacation? Plan your private holiday with Veena World Customized Holidays today!
Call us today: 1800 22 7979 | Write to us at: customizedholidays@veenaworld.com
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