Ramathra fort,a blissful escape

Ramathra fort, a blissful escape

Stepping into the shoes of royalty and keeping abuzz my love for heritage, i contemplated Ramathra fort this winters, as an idyllic holiday spot which was well designed to suit my senses.

Tucked away to the Rajasthan’s country side, Ramathra fort is nestled in Jaipur-Agra-Delhi triangle on the foothills of Aravalies and approximately 165 km from the pink city of Jaipur via NH 23. This small fortress is 350 year old and is undeniably piece of architecture from the 17th century. This was further expanded and fortified by Thakur Bhojpal and is witness to many historical battles which is now turned to a heritage boutique hotel and serves a wonderful honeymoon destination with a perfect amalgamation of old world charm dotted with impeccable hospitality and contemporary comforts of the 21 st centaury amidst the breathtaking vistas of lush green fields which is a must visit.

My journey to the fort was bit bumpy and hilly but was worth a drive. Wrapped in rich opulence ,the fort entrance was absolutely palatial with arched doors .After a steep walk through the cobbled path till the reception ,I found the whole complex was full of trees, bushes and bougainvilla creepers .Exploring courtyards, walkable roofs , hallways and round turrets on each corner revealed royalty. Interestingly once a home to the kings, the fort resonates with the stories of the kingly era which suffused a royal feel in me and drove my senses to the yore of the rich past.

The heritage hotel features 4 rooms (including 2 grand suits ) and 6 garden facing luxury tent rooms. Apparently, mine was a valley facing luxury suite layered with state of art amenities, It featured spacious sitting area with a fire place, while the bedroom featured king size four poster bed with  the big windows that opened out to the balcony offering a sweeping view of the countryside. The bathroom was big with a outdoor bath tub with a sweeping view and against the backdrop of Aravali hills. Ramathra fort is more on the lines of a boutique hotel so don’t expect to be pampered like the way you are in a five star hotel. All the rooms are adorned with furniture that evokes old times and is tasteful, there is no television and rooms have paddle locks. Windows are arched that fold downwards showing off carpenter’s skill and uphold the majesty of the royal medieval era. Each room is different and has its own style decor .While garden facing luxury tents are set against the fort’s rampart walls surrounding lush courtyard lawn.

Fort Ramathra ‘s signature lies in their hospitality and leaves the guests spoilt for choices with their gracious services. The property houses a multi-cuisine restaurant which serves an array of appetizing veg and non veg cuisines with well crafted menu. It serves fixed menus for breakfast ,lunch and dinner. Chefs give authentic touch to the food and personally offers guests choices of four course dinner menus and customize meals as per their preference and tries to match their palate. Apart from this what i liked the most is the culinary expert practice “Farm to table “concept and dig out the most Indian and international cuisines prepared by the home grown organic produce.

To rejuvenate mind body and soul you can indulge in Jacuzzi and spa at the turrets which indeed offers a panoramic view of the dawn and dusk. The tranquil beauty of the lake Kalisil in the vicinity offers exotic eye pleasure especially to the bird watchers. The best way to get soaked in the sublime beauty of the surroundings is by taking a boat ride service at lake offered by the fort in the evening. The incredible vistas of the hills and the majestic fort will leave you awestruck. While there are many activities for the adventure enthusiasts like trekking, nature walk, bird watching and village visit.

Away from the hustle and bustle of the cities, Ramathra fort proves to be an ideal locale which lets you soak in the royal charm of the kingly era, where you hear the call of the birds, crackling of the fresh air, rustling of the trees and laid back ambiance of the serene surroundings. Well equipped with amenities Fort Ramathra is a perfect place for your honeymoon especially for the couples who are looking to infuse peacefulness with royal heritage on their special stay.

Singapore , a paradise for kids

Singapore , a kids paradise

Is there a better place to visit in the world with kids than Singapore? Undoubtedly no, as Singapore spells its charm on travelers from around the globe as this lion city is a blend of a kid’s paradise, heaven for shopaholics, a treat to adventure enthusiasts and joy to connoisseurs. So, i contemplated a visit to this buzzing country this year with my family which offered a host of activities for my little one. Here is a sneak peak of some must visit places of Singapore which add fun and frolic to your child's visit.

Singapore flier

Singapore flier claims to be the largest ferry wheel in Asia. Enjoy the breathtaking view of Singapore from 540 feet with all iconic landmarks right in front with the bird eye view. Advisable to visit the place in a clear weather.

Gardens by the bay

It is another eco friendly man made wonder which is fairly designed for families to enjoy the pleasure of music and nature together. It is a huge manicured garden which is advisable to take a audio tour shuttle when you are accompanied with kids .The outdoor garden features Super tree grove which consists of multiple 50 meter high vertical gardens with large shady canopies .As the dusk falls,these super trees are illuminated with lights which add beauty to the entire scenery hence a photographers delight. Super tree light and sound show is a must watch held in the evening at fixed times which is true audio visual treat for young children. In addition, this place also houses two conservatories namely Cloud forest and Flower dome.

Cloud forest: Cloud forest is artificially created rain forest inside the glass dome which is sure to leave you amazed. Entering this place will certainly let your soul feel the actual forest vibe. The indoor waterfall with the mist rolling in is the key attraction. There are ponds, unusual plant life and tree top walkways which will interest every child while they explore. It is advisable to carry warm clothes as this dome is a bit colder.

Flower dome: Step in to this climatic controlled glass dome and you will stand in awe .Galore of countless beautiful blooming flowers of different climatic zones from around the world adorn the dome. The fact is that it is largest glass green house in the world hence a photographers delight. A place not only for enjoyment but also educates kids about values of plant life and know the importance of conserving our environment.

Jewel in the crown Marina bay sands

Your trip remains incomplete without treating your eyes to the tallest hotel of Singapore swaddled in luxury, Marina bay sands which is the jewel in the crown. It houses Sky Park observation, soaring 57 levels above the heart of the city. The place offers world class cityscape, including the vistas of stunning Super tree grove. A place from where you can marvel at the spectacular spectra light and water show and the entire skyline of the city. Hence the best vantage point in the city from where you can hone your photography skills.

Merlion park

Merlion park is bound to captivate lot of interests from across the world. Half lion and half fish ,the iconic Merlin resides at the waterfront .Interestingly, the fish body symbolizes the Singapore’ s humble beginning as a fishing village and the head represents Singapore’s original name “singapura” a lion city. Kids would love to have a glimpse of this legend with spouting water from its mouth. A perfect landmark where you would love to have a family photograph clicked.

Singapore zoo

A family holiday would be completed only after a visit to the zoo, which is not only a unique attraction for the children and animal lovers but also educates them about the animal kingdom . The zoo is set in the natural rain forest with spacious landscaped enclosures with plethora of animals including rare ones like sea lion, puma, otter etc.in the live form .To add more amusement to the young children there are animal feeding programs and shows at fixed times. Elephant and seal shows are must watch as they perform their best skills and stunts which will leave you engrossed and spell bound, while breakfast with orangutans is a rare chance which elevates the entire zoo experience and hence not to be missed.

Night safari and the river safari

Nestled in the 40 acres of lush green forest in the vicinity of the zoo, Night safari is another legendary fun place in Singapore with families, having lighting in the enclosures just like moonlight. The tram ride through the forest is the best way to get close and view hundreds of nocturnal animals in natural habitat, recorded audio guide played during your tram ride narrates the spiel about the animals is quite educative while adventure enthusiasts can go around the trails.

River safari is a new attraction where kids of all ages would love to indulge in .It houses largest collection of fresh water fauna.

Jurong birds park

It is world s largest walk in aviary and a unique place of interest for nature lovers where they can spend full day as well. It houses 5000 birds over 400 species from round the globe. To a special excitement for children, there are interesting bird shows and feeding times where kids can feed birds like pelican, penguin , ostrich etc .Lory feeding at the Lory loft is the highlight of the park as it is fun to see lory interacting , fluttering around feels like a whole new world and a sight to behold. Water play area in the vicinity adds more charm to this place, hence an ultimate treat for younger children so don’t forget to carry your child swim attire.

Highlights of Sentosa island (A must visit)

Universal studios

Laced with enticing selection of entertaining movies, rides and exciting shows, this place is paradise for the children which lights up their imagination no matter what age they are. On entering, this park will drag your spirits to the fantasy world as there are several rides for children right from the boat ride for the younger children to the dueling roller coasters like cyclone, mummy for the elder children which is sure to offer you a adrenalin pumping experience. The theme park also offers an delightful opportunity for the kids where they meet their favorite characters like Elmo, Shrek, minions etc and strike a pose with them thus making the highlight of the place.

Trick eye museum

Trick eye museum is a world of illusion which gives a 4 d effect to your picture. The concept is fun for all ages where you can get scary pictures like volcano flooring the lava through the village to fairy tale pictures like flying on the carpet like Aladdin .Hence a perfect place to experience the impossibilities of reality.

Cable car ride Segway ride and luge ride

Cable car ride is the adventurous way to reach Sentosa island from singapore main island as the ride ensures the scenic beauty and the bird eye view of the harbor area, Singapore skyline and Sentosa island. Luge and Segway ride is also a great experience for kids which are not supposed to be missed.

Adventure cove water park

Adventure cove is another fun place which offers many thrilling rides catering to the kids of all ages which charge them up. Perfectly designed for the families where they can indulge in fun with water and spend time together. It houses a specially designed play area structured for younger kids with friendly and professional staff .You can also indulge in activities like wave pool, lazy river splash maze etc. Photography services captures the best moments of your aquatic adventure. To add fun to your adventure, you can swim and snorkel with the beautiful marine fishes while encounter with dolphins offers a surreal touch to the venue at the Rainbow reef which is a rare and a must try experience while in Singapore.

Wings of time

Wings of time is a beautifully scripted light and sound show held by the sea side in evening with incredible combination of 3 d projection and mapping, spectacular laser lights and pyrotechnics while the glimmering fireworks at the end of the show is a treat for youngsters.

Serenade your soul by relaxing, playing and making sand castles at the beach or do cycling by the bay. This is an experience which your child can relish all their lives. Apart from the above Singapore is replete of galleries, botanical gardens and museums. The city has an equatorial climate with summer temperature reaching more than 40 degrees and so it is advisable to visit this lion city between September to January and is advisable to carry an umbrella as it rains quite often. Orchard road is a perfect shopping strip for all the shopping enthusiasts as massive high end shopping malls line this street. While if you looking for budget shopping then Haji lane and Mustafa shopping centre is the place for you. Known as the most culturally diverse city Singapore is a food heaven. To please the palate of the international travelers there are eateries serving fusion authentic cuisines from different cultures round the world .But if you are looking for Indian cuisine, look no further than the Little India area which is tucked away with north and south Indian restaurants where you can engulf your senses in the enticing aromas of freshly made Indian delicacies to satiate your taste buds.

Singapore leaves no stone unturned to offer you an action packed holiday to keep your bundle of joy entertained. A locale stuffed with adventure, family fun, scenic beauty and a chilled out place all rolled into one. No wonder it is huge hit with family. So spin out your days into a Singaporean holiday with your loved ones.

However, there are certain things in remember:

1. For the children below 7 years of age, it is advisable to carry a stroller as the distances are long for the kids to walk.

2. Singapore is well connected with MRT and is the most economical way to commute.

3. Look out for discounted tickets of theme parks and places to visit like zoo,    flyer, and gardens by the bay on klook .com.

4. If you are looking for accommodation cocooned in luxury then you can consider sentosa island, while budget travelers can look for accommodation in little India.