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Indian Cuisine   A Food Lover’s Guide to Indian Cuisine Indian cuisine may be said to be an art, an array of colored pots filled with mouthwatering dishes that could each retell a history of India. The food ranges from the exotic mountain fare of the himalayas to the exotic sea food of the coconuts of kerala and thus having an array of taste buds that savor the tongue and mind. In this all-India guide, we will go on the regional trip and discover the main dishes and the component that make Indian cuisine exceptional. Introduction: The Essence of Indian Cuisine The Indian food is well known for its spicy and aromatic qualities as Indian spices form the major part of food preparation. One thing that is unique to Indian cuisine is the use of spice like cumin, corriander, turmeric and garam masala to offer a fragrance and flavor to the food. Apart from the spices, Indian cuisine is also defined by the manner of preparing foods through methods such as roasting, grilling, sautéing, and steaming. Coupled with assorted climate and geographical conditions, these techniques have produced a wide spread of regional specialties that are distinguished by their individuality. Suggested Tour: Culinary Tour North Indian Cuisine: Rich and Robust 1. Punjab: The Land of Butter and Spice The province of Punjab is known as ‘The Land of Five Rivers’ and its food is rich, dense, and heavy on spices. Here, I have noted that most of the food is spicy, liberally supplemented with ghee and cream in some meals making the food delicious and creamy. Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani): This delicious chicken contains chicken pieces prepared in a tomato-based gravy that is further thickened with butter and cream. Sarson ka Saag and Makki di Roti: A traditional Punjabi winter special preparation of mustard greens (sarson) and typically eaten with cornmeal flatbreads cooked on griddle known as makki di roti. Amritsari Kulcha: A stuffed flour based bread rolled and cooked in a tandoor (clay oven) can have a stuffing of spiced mashed potatoes, or paneer. 2. Rajasthan: The Royal Feast The food of Rajasthan is spicy, dry and has been greatly influenced by the royal rule of the state. It lacks fresh vegetables, fruits and fancy items as most of the foods that are prepared are spicy and are prepared with food items that do not perish easily like lentils, beans and millets. Dal Baati Churma: It is a conventional food preparation that consists of cooked lentils with spices (dal), baked round wheat cakes (baati), and a coarse sweet bread (churma). Laal Maas: A spicy meat curry dish prepared with red chilies and yogurt usually the goat or lamb meat is used for this dish. Gatte ki Sabzi: This is a preparation made from chickpea flour and shaped into dumplings which is then cooked in a gravy, prepared from yogurt. South Indian Cuisine: Spicy and Flavorful 3. Tamil Nadu: The Land of Temples and Idlis Tamil Nadu has a tradition for vegetarian food and it is also the dominant staple food in the state – rice and lentils. This restaurant’s food is usually spicy, and you’ll notice that tamarind and coconut are used quite frequently. Idli and Dosa: Rice soaked in water for several hours then fermented and ground into a paste and steamed into soft round cakes (idli) and the same material spread out and cooked on a griddle to form thin, crisp pancakes (dosa). Chettinad Chicken: A curry type chicken dish from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu and it is very hot because it uses a lot of spices. Sambar and Rasam: Koras, a type of lentil based soup that has tamarind as a primary ingredient and a host of spices used to enhance the flavor and is usually taken with rice or dosa. 4. Kerala: The Spice Garden of India In terms of food, like all other aspects of life in the state, Kerala is unique in that the people consume a significant amount of fish and coconut due to the land’s geographical location. The food is tasteful, and I noticed that the spices are combined well and do not overpower the other ingredients. Fish Molee: An aroma of fish curry immediately prepared in coconut milk and garnished with curry leaves and green chilly. Appam and Stew: Fermented rice pancakes (appam) topped with a delightful aromatic vegetable or meat curry. Puttu and Kadala Curry: Steamed rice flour cakes with beef, chicken or mutton curry Kadala (Black chickpea curry). East Indian Cuisine: Unique and Diverse 5. West Bengal: The Sweet Tooth The state of West Bengal is well-known for its range of sweets and desert items, but it’s equally rich in a variety of non-vegetarian items to relish. The cooking involves the use of mustard oil and panch phoron popularly used in Bangladeshi recipes. Fish Curry (Machher Jhol): A very light fish preparation, which is cooked with a dash of mustard oil, turmeric and green chili. Rasgulla and Sandesh: Cheeseballs made of soft spongy material and cooked in syrup (rasgulla) and a delicate milk sweet (sandesh). Shorshe Ilish: Hilsa fish which is cooked in mustard sauce is something that people in Bengal reverence. 6. Odisha: Simple yet Flavorful Odisha is rich in flavors and spices with an emphasis on fresh produce which could be sourced locally. Thus, the food is less spicy compared to other parts of the state, yet it is equally flavorful. Dalma: A comforting dish made from lentils and vegetables spiced with Whole spice mix (panch phoron) Pakhala Bhata: Steamed rice soaked with water then fermented together with yogurt to come up with a food that can be best eaten during summer. Chhena Poda: A cooked dessert made from fresh cottage cheese, sugar, and cardamom. West Indian Cuisine: Spicy and Savory 7. Maharashtra: The Diverse Palette Even within the state, there are differences in the type of food that is consumed, especially when comparing the coastal areas to the interior parts of Maharashtra. The

India, the birthplace of yoga, offers an array of yoga and wellness retreats that cater to individuals seeking physical, mental, and spiritual rejuvenation. For Canadian travelers, exploring these retreats can be a transformative experience, combining the allure of Indian culture with the profound benefits of traditional and modern wellness practices. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the best yoga and wellness retreats in India, highlighting essential information to help Canadian travelers plan their journey.   Why Choose India for Yoga and Wellness Retreats?   India has been a hot spot for wellness tourists because the country has a heritage connected with the practice of Yoga and Ayurveda treatments. A serene environment ranging from landscapes to religious temples and other religious oriented places in the country provide an appropriate backdrop to other healing retreats. Specifically, in India, it is possible to visit ashrams for spiritual practices, erotic wellness centers, as well as luxurious hotels for patients with various diseases.   Historical Significance of Yoga in India   Yoga is an ancient practice that originated in the Indian subcontinent over 5000 years ago and has therefore been developed into different styles. The historical perspectives of yoga can be dated back to the vedas and Upanishads, which are the sacred texts of Hindus’ the practice of yoga has been enhanced and expanded by the successive pioneering sages and modern yoga masters. Therefore, one can argue that yoga in India is genuine due to the historical Indian connection to the practice.   Top Yoga and Wellness Retreat Destinations in India   Rishikesh: The Yoga Capital of the World   Rishikesh, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas along the banks of the Ganges River, is renowned as the world’s yoga capital. It offers a tranquil environment perfect for spiritual and physical practices. Here, you can find a multitude of ashrams and yoga schools, such as the Parmarth Niketan and Sivananda Ashram, providing immersive yoga teacher training programs and short-term retreats. Notable Retreats in Rishikesh Parmarth Niketan: Known for its serene ambiance and comprehensive yoga programs, Parmarth Niketan offers daily yoga classes, meditation sessions, and Ayurvedic treatments. Sivananda Ashram: This ashram provides a traditional yogic lifestyle with programs focusing on the five points of yoga: proper exercise, breathing, relaxation, diet, and meditation.   Kerala: The Cradle of Ayurveda   Kerala, located in the southern part of India, is famous for its Ayurvedic treatments and tranquil backwaters. Combining yoga with Ayurveda, many retreats in Kerala offer personalized wellness programs aimed at detoxification and rejuvenation. Notable Retreats in Kerala Somatheeram Ayurveda Village: Though it is not a solely thematic resort, the Somatheeram Ayurvedic resort is the world’s first Ayurvedic resort offering yoga, Ayurvedic treatments, and individually personalized diet. Vana Retreat: This retreat facility also focuses on the Ayurveda practice of India, yoga, and the Tibetan techniques associated with healing.   Goa: Beachside Serenity   The beautiful beaches of Goa, its serene environment, and the nature of yoga and wellness holidays make Goa ideal for yoga retreats. Here you may practice yoga indulging in the beautiful view of the nearshore and the climate of a warm tropic. Notable Retreats in Goa Ashiyana Yoga Retreat: Located in Goan village, just 10 km from Mandrem Beach, Ashiyana is about yoga with special focus on rejuvenation and personal development. Purple Valley Yoga Retreat: Being a center for Ashtanga yoga classes Purple Valley serves yogis from all over the world to come and practice yoga at this calm place.   Dharamshala: Himalayan Tranquility ln addition to the tourist attractions like the scenic beauty, snow-capped mountains and beautiful monasteries, Dharamshala is also the abode of the 14th Dalai Lama and a large population of Tibetans which makes it an ideal place for having Yoga and meditation retreat. The beautiful surrounding views especially the snowy peaks of Mount Himalaya complement the general feeling of serenity and reflection.   Notable Retreats in Dharamshala Tushita Meditation Centre: This center is strictly aligned to the Buddhist religion, with classes being available in beginners, intermediate and advanced levels. Himalayan Iyengar Yoga Centre: This center specializes in yoga courses in Iyengar yoga that are methodical and characterized by the therapeutic approach with incredible views of mountains. Conclusion Visiting India to take a yoga and wellness retreat is more than just a holiday but rather a perfect way of breaking the shell. Being an Indian culture and Indian geographical region, with lots of sacred places, spirituality is an integral part of any trip to India for people from Canada. Whether one wants to find spirituality in Rishikesh, healing touch in Kerala, beachiness in Goa, or simply comfort in the lap of nature.

Essential Travel Tips for Canadians Visiting India   I hope that as your travel advisor you will find this information useful in the planning of your trip to India. This beautiful country has a lot to offer and having some level of readiness helps to maximize the fun that is encountered when on a trip. Below are some of the recommendations that can be given to any individual when it comes to traveling, moving around, getting transportation and eating out. We are going to share some travel tips for Canadians visiting India. Suggested Tour: Golden Triangle Tour of India Travel Preparations (Travel tips for Canadians) Visas and Documentation: Make sure you have the correct tourist Visa before you set out for the trip. The e-Visa for India is as follows: You may apply for an Indian e-Visa if you are a Canadian citizen. It is advisable to always have photocopies of passports, visas, and any other necessary documents. Health Precautions: The next thing that a visitor should do is to obtain the right vaccinations by visiting a travel clinic. Some of the popular tours suggest to take Hepatitis A and B vaccines, Typhoid and Tetanus. The patients should carry prescribed medicines and a simple emergency kit for minor emergencies. Travel Insurance: The travelers should ensure they take adequate travel insurance that includes health and accident covers, as well as loss of baggage and personal property. It is always wise to be safe than to be sorry! How to Travel  Flights: Most airlines offer cheap fares and this is usually the best time to book your flights. Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore are linked to many international destinations. Domestic Travel: India is a large country, so if you are going far, consider the time and include flights whenever possible. Indigo, Vistara and Air India are few of many airlines that have established multiple domestic flight connectivity. Train Travel: I can vouch for the Indian Railways and would recommend this as a great way to explore India. Tickets booking can be done through internet booking or through any authorized traveling agents from IRCTC website. Choose the AC classes when it comes to comfort and security. Local Transportation: For first and foremost, Uber and Ola are the best applications for availing taxi services. Auto-rickshaws are one of the most popular modes of transport in India but never settle for a fare without bargaining or always demand the use of the meter. Suggested Tour: Golden Triangle Tour of Shimla Exploring Places (Travel tips for Canadians) Guided Tours: It is sometimes useful to organize tours to popular places yourself, turning to the services of guides. Local guides are key assets that help not to overlook important points and navigate you through unknown territories. Cultural Etiquette: Avoid dressing provocatively and be cautious regarding the type of clothes worn in the villages and unpopular tourist attractions, religious institutions. This means that one has to respect the laws of the country, and part and parcel of these laws is to respect the customs and traditions of the local people. It is useful if you learn a few basic words in Hindi or any other local language that you are familiar with. Safety: Be careful when in and around the public places, do not walk alone, try to avoid lonely places, and be careful with your personal belongings at crowded places. Keep emergency contacts handy. Accommodation  Hotels and Guesthouses: India houses all sorts of accommodations from high end luxury hotels to basic guest houses for tourists. Read more about it on sites such as TripAdvisor or Booking to determine the particular hotel’s reputation. com before booking. Homestays: Since the most popular accommodations type are hostels, for a deeper cultural experience, it is only possible to stay in home-stays. Sure there are many accommodations available on website like Airbnb where you can get Indian ambiance and food as well. Suggested Tour: Leh Ladakh Tour Food and Dining (Travel tips for Canadians) Eating Safely: Indian food is quite varied and can be very tasty, however it is necessary to eat at a safe place. The first precaution is to only drink bottled or filtered water, steer clear of ice in drinks as well as freshly cooked food where possible. Street Food: Taste street foods but do so with utmost precaution. Select more stalls that are crowded and those which food items are sold out quickly. Some of the commonly chosen foods are pani puri, samosas, and dosas. Restaurants: Dine at popular, established restaurants to test the local food culture. India has regional specialities – Delhi’s butter chicken, Hyderabad’s biryani, and Kerala’s seafood are all must-tries. Money Matters  Currency: The currency used in India is called Rupee which has the international code symbol INR. Over-the-counter cash can be obtained from ATMs, and inform the bank of your travels to avoid problems with the cards. Digital Payments: The world is more and more digital and India is no exception to this evolution. The modern population uses such applications as Paytm and Google Pay, but carrying some cash is still reasonable. Tipping: The most popular form of gratuities is a percentage of the bill which is usually around 10-15% in restaurants, hotels and for guides and drivers. Make sure that one of the extra fees mentioned above such as the service charge is not already factored into your bill. Connectivity (Travel tips for Canadians) SIM Cards: Buy a local SIM card upon arrival with the hope of making calls and have Internet access. The service providers such as Airtel and Jio are quite good and there are affordable tariff plans available. Internet: Internet connection particularly in hotels, cafes, and restaurants is easily accessible through the Wi-Fi connection. But it is helpful to have mobile data at least for navigation purposes and to stay connected with the rest of the world. Packing Essentials Clothing: Pack casual, comfortable and light wear that is suitable for the weather conditions in India. Carry a scarf or shawl when