The end of the Ramadan months signals the beginning of a festival called Hai Raya Puasa in Malaysia. With most of the population in the country being Muslims, the festivities are celebrated in on a grand scale. Here are some facts about Hari Raya Puasa. Before the feast Ramadan is said to be the 9th month on the Islamic colander is also one of the holiest months for Muslims. During this period, the devotees avoid eating, drinking and smoking during the day. This act of fasting and abstinence is for one to learn good virtues like patience, humility and spirituality while surrendering oneself to Allah. The period of fasting begins at dawn and ends at 4 pm. Prayer time During this one month of fasting, …

Bali is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, especially where the tropics are concerned. If you’re seeking a romantic getaway, this island landscape has much to offer. Pura Taman Ayun This beautiful temple garden complex is one Bali’s most treasured attractions and renowned across the world for its exotic beauty and tranquil ambiance. It is a place brimming with adventure as well as beauty. Tanah Lot This refers to a spectacular rock formation that rises out of the sea just off the beach in Tabanan. The name itself means “Land in the Sea”. The landmass was apparently discovered in the 16th century by a Hindu traveller, and eventually, a shrine and temple were built. Ubud Monkey Forest You don’t always discover …

There is a host of festivals and events that are popularly celebrated by the residents of Bangkok. Given below are some of the most fervently celebrated occasions in this city Chinese New Year This joyously celebrated festival is particularly important to residents of Chinese descent. Bangkok’s Chinatown, the locality of Yaowaraj comes vibrantly alive with dragon dances, innumerable firecrackers and a joyous festive ambience. Loy Krathong This unique and distinctive festival is an occasion that is important to Thais. This significant event usually falls in November on a full moon night, when innumerable Thais make their way to rivers, canals and lakes in order to release pretty little rafts created in the shape of a lotus flower. Visitors can stay in Bangkok luxury hotels the likes of Anantara …

An event of profound religious and spiritual significance, the Wai Kru Festival or the Sak Yant Festival claims to bring physical and spiritual protection by way of the many exotic Sak Yant tattoos. What is the Wai Kru Festival? An intense experience and one of the famous festivals in Bangkok, the Wai Kru Festival is also known as the Sak Yant Festival. The Wai Kru Festival is not to be confused with the traditional phrase “Wai Kru” that is part of a ritual where students pay gratitude to their teachers. Tattooing the Devotees Over 10,000 Buddhist devotees gather at the Wat Bang Phra (temple) in Thailand for the Wai Kru Festival. The tattooists or the monks at the temple draw protective tattoos on the devotees with …

Dubai is a major tourist destination in the world and in order to provide a wholesome experience for tourists the country is packed with festivals and events throughout the year. Most festivals are closely related to Islam due to the dense Muslim population of the country. Here are a few of the most popular festivals in Dubai. Dubai shopping festivals This is a massive shopping fiesta usually scheduled from January 1st to the 2nd February. Stocked with tons of clothes, shoes and bags for bargain prices, this is a shopper’s paradise. The festival involves every shop in the city, fireworks, and fun activities for kids and many more. Festival of Taste This is a vibrant city with diverse varieties of food. This is held in …

India is a nation that is full of heritage and has a vast selection of incredible places to visit, but one of the most significant of these is Bodh Gaya, where Lord Buddha achieved enlightenment. History Somewhere around 500BC, Lord Buddha discovered the Noble Eight-fold Path under a sacred bodhi-tree in Bodh Gaya. The first temple to be built on this site was under the behest of King Asoka, and resulted in the renowned Mahabodhi Temple. Getting There and Accommodation You can reach Gaya Airport, just 12km from Bodhgaya, through a direct flight from Kolkata. The other nearest airport is in Patna, a 3-hour drive away. If you’re looking for a hotel in Bodhgaya there are a few to be found such as Oaks Bodhgaya. When to Visit …