Life Breezy

Puri is the holy pilgrim destination in east India. It has earned its place as the holy Jagannath Puri Dham in comparison to the other three pilgrim destinations, namely, the Badrinath, the Ramnath (Rameswar) and Dwarka among the pilgrims. It lies at the banks of the Bay of Bengal and its prime attractions include the sea beaches of the wide ocean and the Shri Jagannath temple. Not surprisingly, it acquires its name from the Jagannath temple lying in its vicinity and visitors gather at this holy spot throughout the year. Moreover, Rath Yatra is the main festival, people celebrate here in the monsoons while the Puri Beach festival attracts people in great numbers. The Rath Yatra festival devoted to the deities Jagannath, Subhadra and Balabhadra. Lying in the coastal region it enjoys the tropical climate with the maximum temperature of 40 degree Celsius and the minimum of 17 degree Celsius. The rivers flowing in neighborhood supports the agriculture system of the state. The handy works at display in various retail shops for sale proves that many cottages and handicraft industries flourish in the place.

Gopalpur is another sea beach attraction locating at the south of Orissa. It lies 167 kilometres away from the state. Learn more about Gopalpur, how to go there and its top attractions from this website.

To get there

Different modes of transport like the air, rail and bus available to reach Puri. Traveling by the train is the most comfortable mode of transport.

Air Transport– The nearest airport, the Biju Patnaik Airport, lies 60 kilometres away from the Puri at Bhubaneswar.

Rail Transport– The Puri railway station connects with all the major cities of India. A brief list of trains leaving from particular cities given below:

Kolkata: Puri-Howrah daily Duronto Express, Shri Jangannath Puri Express.
Chennai: Coromandel Express
Delhi: Purushottam Express
Banglore: Prasanthi Express, Guwahati Express
Mumbai: Konark Express
Pune: Pune-Bhubaneswar Express
Ahmedabad: Adi Puri Express
Amritsar: Hirakund Express

Bus Transport (Kolkata)– Direct bus services available from the Dharmatala Bus Terminus. Besides, one may get down at the Bhubaneswar and board another bus for Puri. Further, book bus tickets days before the journey to avoid last-minute confusion.

Lodging

Autos available from the Puri railway stations and bus terminus to the sea beaches. The autos may charge RS 100 for the four to five kilometres journey. However, one should bargain and fix the price before boarding in any autos.

Several hotels/resorts available in the Marine Drive area. However, booking hotels/resorts before arriving here is advisable. The check out time is most of the hotels/resorts is 8am. Some of the hotels/resorts along with the cost given below:

Hotel New Sea Hawk: It lies in the New Marine Drive Road. The cost ranges from RS 900 to RS 2800.
Surya Beach Inn: It lies at the Chakratirtha Road, two minutes away from the Puri beach. The cost of a double bed room ranges from RS 3000 to RS 4000.
Deep Resort: It lies on the sea beach. The cost of a double bed ranges from RS 2000 to RS 3000.
Holiday Resort: Lies on the Chakratirtha Road. The cost of one room is RS 2965.
Hotel Seagull: It lies on the sea beach, ten minutes away from the station. The price ranges from RS 700 to RS 2200.

Note: Actual prices may vary according to the time, season and other influential factors.

Attractions

The top attractions of Puri includes the Puri sea beach and the Sri Jagannath temple. However, visitors also explore several other important attractions including temples, sanctuaries, etc. Some of the noteworthy attractions given below:

The Swargadwar

It means door to heaven and a perfect place for the visitors to take the first holy dip before starting the day. People believe, once Shri Chaitanya Dev took the maiden dip in this holy waters of the sea. According to tradition, taking a holy dip here sanctifies one from sin. The golden sea beach holds testimony that the big waves of the Bay of Bengal touching its feet through the ages. Moreover, bathing in the sea along with other visitors, one most exciting experience people enjoy.

The Jagannath Temple

After taking the holy dips in the Swargadwar, one may go ahead to visit the historical temples. One may walk or hire a rickshaw to go to the Jagannath temple. A 22 steps ascend takes one to the doors of the temple. The four doors of the temple facing the north, south, east and west known as the Lion Gate, Tiger Gate, Elephant Gate and the Horse Gate. The Rath Yatra festival of the July/August center on this temple and draws people attention. Taking cameras inside the temple prohibited, but one may shoot snaps outside the temple. The temple inside houses the deities Balarama, Subhadra and Jagannath. The big Sudarshan Chakra lies at the sideways. On the left side of the Jagannath idol stands the Goddess Mahalakshmi and on the right side is the Goddess Maha Saraswati.

The Konark Sun Temple

The temple popular as the 'Black Pagoda' dedicated to the Sun God. Since, the structure made of black granite hence is the name. King Narasimha Deva-1 build it in the 13th Century. The temple constructed in the theme of the Sun God's Chariot, pulled by the seven horses. The seven horses stand for the seven week days while the 24 giant chariot wheels symbolize the 24 hours day. Besides, some of the other important temples rest in the zone. Moreover, the Konark museum has its own unique charm as many antiques preserved and displayed here. This temple has earned its fame as the world heritage site by the UNESCO.

The Balukhand Wildlife Sanctuary

It lies between the Konark and the Puri coastal area stretching from the Puri to the Daluakani. This is a beautiful place covered by the natural growth of plantations, yellow beaches and flowing rivers. It houses the preserving place for the Olive Ridley turtles. One may enjoy the boat ride, the charm of the cool green forest and beautiful sight of the Black Buck deer, herons etc.

The Vimala Temple

It lies close to the Jagannath temple. Considered as the holiest temple, known as the 'Shakti Pitha' among the masses. The structure made of sandstone and laterite. The Durga Puja festival celebrated here for 16 days. Devotees who visit the Jagannath temple also visit the Vimala temple.

26th January, 1950 is an important day in the History of India. After India got the independence, it started framing the constitution. It took two years, 11 months and 18 days to frame the Indian constitution. Finally, it got authorized and instrumented on the 26th of January, 1950.

History

In the 26th of January, 1930 Pundit Jawaharlal Nehru addressing a meeting at the banks of the Ravi river in Lahore. Learn more about Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru from this website. In this meeting many freedom fighters took the pledge to fight for the freedom of mother India. The breeze for an independent India spread throughout the country. People fought hard for the freedom of the country. They did not lag to sacrifice anything that came as a hurdle to freedom. Finally, on the 15th of August, 1947 India saw the first morning of freedom. The national flag or the 'Tiranga' hoisted at different places. People came out of their houses to rejoice in the freedom.

Significance

The day is important because on this day India got freedom from the foreign rule. India became a secular nation where all the religions got equal status and respect. It is one reason this day known as the Republic day. The word republic means electing one's own representatives to rule the country. In 26th January, 1950 the home-made constitution of India came into effect. The constitution eases the countrymen with rights that help them to develop and prosper in life.

Celebration

Republic day is one of the three national festivals celebrated in India. On this day, the national flag hoisted at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi, Rajpal Bhavan in Kolkata, government offices, buildings, etc. People sing the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana Adhinayaka, with great pride and enthusiasm. The happiness among the children, youths, men, women and the aged adds a cheerful atmosphere. Moreover, different types of cultural programs, sports, concerts, exhibitions and activities held everywhere. Moreover, special awards for bravery also given on this day. The Indian national flag hoisted about the Republic Day Parade. People gather in numbers to watch the event or watch the celebration in their Television sets at home.

Conclusion

This day is an important landmark for India. People rejoice and commemorate the sacrifice of the great leaders who fought for the freedom. They are the examples to the young generation living and breeding in the nation. The young generation is the fundamental force on which the future prospect of a nation rests. They need to follow the footsteps of these great leaders and lend their hand in the different spheres of society as per their ability. Their humble efforts would surely help India to meet more glory in the coming years.

Budge Budge town locates in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. It connects well with the metropolitan city Kolkata with the local trains and the public buses. People regularly travel between the places for the education, office and business purpose. In the last few years, it has developed well and the economy would flourish more in the coming years. It has some cool picnic spots like the Rabindra Kanan Sishu Uddyan, the Achipur Pujali picnic spot, etc., where people travel in groups to relax in a serene atmosphere.

Rabindra Kanan Sishu Uddyan

The Rabindra Kanan Sishu Uddyan locates close to Kolkata at the South 24 Parganas, Budge Budge. This picnic spot lies in the Birlapur New Road. The Budge Budge Block Panchayat Samiti, under the East Nischintapur Gram Panchayat, maintains the park. The spot locates either side of a wide canal. The greenery at the either side of the canal consists of the Sal, Teak, Casuarina, Ashoka, Gulmohar, Orchid, Arjuna and Eucalyptus trees. The flower beds look ornamental with seasonal flowers blooming all around the park.

Guest houses and cottages

The park equipped with three beautiful bungalows – The Uttarayan, the Oikotan and the Nirjhar-Nirala. The Uttarayan has the two spacy rooms while the Oikotan has a cozy room. The rent for the rooms in the Uttarayan, and the Oikotan is RS 500 per day. The two rooms of the Nirjhar-Nirala costs RS 450 each for a day.

The cool, and serene atmosphere relieves one from the tensions of regular city life. It brings one at the sphere of nature, where one could breathe easy in the fresh air. A cottage available at RS 800 where 40 to 50 person could have a picnic party. The other side of the canal has the 10 cottages with attached restrooms. The rent for these cottages are RS 250. Besides, one may picnic at the open space outside at a nominal fee of RS 150.

Activities

An ideal children park for the young ones to spend some time in recreation activities. The could have a great time enjoying in the slides, swings, balancing rocks, kangaroo swings, merry-go-round, sea-saw, jungle gymnasium, etc.

The elders could enjoy the boating on the pedal boats. The rate is RS 40 per hour. One has to pay a nominal entry fee of RS 3 to enter the park.

How to reach Rabindra Kanan Sishu Uddyan

Trains available from the Sealdah Station south section. For instance, the Budge Budge local takes one to the Budge Budge Station. Autos, and rickshaws from the Station. Besides, buses for Budge Budge available from the Taratala bus terminus. Furthermore, the driving route follows from the Taratala crossing through the Trunk road.

Note:- The Achipur Pujali picnic spot also locates in the Budge Budge, South 24 Parganas. Learn more about the Achipur Pujali picnic spot, how to get there and its contact details from this website.

Contact details for Booking

One may book the spot before going to the place. The contact details, given below:

East Nischintapur Gram Panchayat Samity,

Budge Budge, South 24 Parganas,

Phone – (033) 2482-7757/1697.

The North 24 Parganas ranks second as the most populated district in India. It divides into the Barasat (District Headquarters), Basirhat, Bangaon, Bidhannagar (or the Salt Lake) and Barrackpore. Several rivers like Ganga, Ichhamati, Jamuna, Bidyadhari, etc., flows through the district. It entertains a tropical climate with dry winters and humid summers. Since, the economy of the district depends mostly on the fishing, farming and the other agricultural activities, monsoon plays a significant role in the district. The famous Sundarbans National Park locates in the regions of the North 24 Parganas and the South 24 Parganas. Learn more about the South 24 Parganas and its top picnic spots from this website. The awesome experience of a weekend getaways near the riversides keep one refreshed for long. Given below, some of the wonderful riverside picnic spots of the north 24 Parganas.

The Mancharanga Dweep

In English, the name means Kingfisher Island. A unique picnic spot lying at the bosom of the Ichapur river in the Hasnabad. Similar to this picnic spot, the Sabuj Deep picnic spot of the Hooghly/Hugli district lies at the bosom of Hooghly river. Without any doubt, these two picnic spots are the top picnic spots in their respective districts. Learn more about the Sabuj Deep picnic spot and other best picnic spots of the Hooghly/Hugli district from this website. The India-Bangladesh international border lies beside the islet. The Hasnabad Panchayat Samiti maintains the spot. During the monsoon, the islet gets submerged into the river waters. However, during the winter, the spot gets active with visitors flocking to the region.

To reach there: One may board the Hasnabad local from the Sealdah Station, Kolkata to reach the Hasnabad Station. The ferry ghat locates within the 10 minutes of walking distance from the station. The electric steamers from the ferry ghat carry people to the islet. As a precaution, one should leave the spot before the evening. For staying at the cottage, one needs to get permission from the Panchayat Samiti and the BSF (Border Security Force). For more details, one may contact the Hasnabad Panchayat Samiti.

The Taki Town

Besides the Mancharanga Dweep, several other spots flourish in the north 24 Parganas. Taki, a town in the north 24 Parganas, located 80 kilometers away from the Kolkata. A noteworthy spot, famous for the Durga Puja idol immersion. Since it lies in the India-Bangladesh border, boats from both the countries ply on the river to immerse the Goddess Durga idol. This activity attracts visitors to the region during the Bijaya Dashami festival. Moreover, during the winter, people gather in the region by groups for small picnics. Several picnic spots including the Panchayat and the private spots cover most of the region. Sachindra Banabithi picnic spot of the Taki Municipality locates at the banks of the river. People also enjoy the boat riding across the river.

To reach there: To reach the Taki Station, one needs to board the Hasnabad local from the Sealdah Station, Kolkata. The Eco-tourism park, the Mini-Sundarbans, now open for the visitors. It has the thick growth of the Sundari and the Palm trees. For boating activity, inside the park, visitors need to pay RS 10 per person.

The Parmadan Deep Park

People also know it as the Bibhutibhusan Wildlife Sanctuary. It lies in the Bangoan region under the Bagda Police Station. The forest area covers more than 90 hectares and locates 36 kilometers from the Bangoan Police Station. The natural forest greenery, the Mini zoo, boat riding makes it a noteworthy place among all the age groups. The deer, monkeys and birds of different species set the atmosphere for the visitors.

To reach there: One may board a local train from the Sealdah Station, Kolkata to reach the Bangoan Station. Next, buses available from the station takes one to the Naldungri bus stand. The park locates within minutes walk from the bus stand. Besides, suitable parking space available for parking vehicles. The Forest Department Tourist Lodge available for the visitors. For detail information, one may contact the Forest Department Office at Barasat. The entry fee per person is RS 45

The Sangati Park

Ashokenagar, a city in the Barasat, has the Sangati park and the Millennium park for the visitors. The former park gaining in popularity as an ideal picnic spot. The Kalyangarh Municipality maintains the park.

To reach there: Trains like the Bangoan local and the Habra local from the Sealdah Station, Kolkata available for the Ashokenagar station. Rickshaws and autos available from the station to reach the park. One may enter the park by paying an entry fee of RS 10. Toy trains and boats are the other attractions of the park. Besides, eatables available from the restaurants inside the park. Suitable spots for picnic available outside the park.

The Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary

This sanctuary dedicated to well-known Bengali writer, Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay. It lies at the banks of the Ichhamati river in the Bangoan. A three-hour journey from Kolkata takes one to the natural kingdom of wildlife. It has deer, birds, snakes, monkeys, tortoises, etc. Trees like the Bamboos, Arjuna, Manjiri surrounds and decorates the park.

To reach there: Board a local train from the Sealdah Station, Kolkata to reach the Bangaon Station. Buses and autos available to reach the spot.

The long rows of the casuarina trees, the tidal waves of the Bay of Bengal, the sandy beaches and the calm ambiance makes Digha one popular tourist spot in the West Bengal. Since it locates close to the city Kolkata, people from the nearest towns and cities crowd here during the weekends and holidays. The easy connection of the spot with the buses and the trains to the different places have raised the number of tourists, of late. The New Digha, locating two kilometres from the Old Digha, has become an ideal place for tourists to take a dip in the sea waters in the morning.

Tajpur, another sea beach attraction lies close to Digha, in the east Midnapore. Learn more about Tajpur, how to reach there and its top attractions from this website.

How to reach Digha

From the Kolkata, West Bengal, travelling by the bus takes four to five hours while by trains it takes the most of four hours. Buses for the spot available from the different areas of Kolkata including the Howrah Station, Dharmatala, Garia, Belghoria, etc. Besides, buses also available from the Basirhat, the Barrackpore and the Basonti. However, a train journey guarantees a comfortable journey to the travellers and it takes three and a half hours only to reach the spot. Some of the trains available from the Howrah Station (Kolkata) are the Tamralipta Express (morning), Duronto Express (afternoon) and the Kandari Express (afternoon). From the New Jalpaiguri the weekly Pahari Express and the Puri-Duronto Express available for the spot. The Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Airport locates 215 kilometres away.

Lodging

The West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation (WBTDC) hotel, the Digha Tourist Lodge, locates near the sea beach. The rent starts from RS 1800. Other budget hotels/lodges of the tourist spot, given below:

Orbit Residency – Price ranges from RS 1800 to RS 3700.
Hotel Santiniketan – Price ranges from RS 1200 to RS 4300.
Hotel Dolphin – Price ranges from RS 700 to RS 2500.
Hotel Royal Bengal – Price ranges from RS 700 to RS 800.
Hotel Sonar Bangla – Price ranges from RS 800 to RS 1800.

Besides, several Holiday Homes and lodges available in the Digha.

Food, activities and shopping

A full dish or rice and fishes available in most of the hotels/dhabas in Orissa. One may have a full tummy of tasty lunch at a dear price. Cooked fishes like the pomfret, prawns, hilsa, etc., available in the hotels are delicious to taste. Moreover, one may enjoy cashew nuts and coconut water in plenty.

One may enjoy activities like swimming, sitting or walking on the sea beach, playing games, riding on a pony and have their snaps shots from the local cameramen.

One may buy different items available from the near roadside market like the shell ornaments, sea shells, handmade designer mats, conch-shells etc.

Attractions

Digha, an ideal destination to spend some time with friends and family to rejuvenate one's spirit. One may hire a rickshaw to explore the near attractions like the Amravati Park, the Marine Aquarium, the Digha Science Centre, etc. Besides, one may hire a car to visit the Chandaneswar Temple (Orissa border), the sea beaches of the Talsar Beach. Furthermore, one may visit the Udaipur Beach by hiring a rickshaw from the New Digha. To roll ones eye on the different varieties of fishes, one needs to get up early and hire a rickshaw to Mohna. Some of the attractions of Digha, given below:

The New Digha

It locates two kilometres away from the Old Digha, an ideal spot for bathing in the sea water or to relax under the sunshine. Besides, it has the washrooms and locker facilities for the visitors. Furthermore, several suitable hotels/resorts and eating places available around the place. Moreover, the Science Centre founded by the National Council of Science Museum locates in the neighbourhood. An absorbing place that makes Science an easy subject to the viewers. Besides, a park by the lake, another attraction of the place, eases the tourists with boat riding.

The Marine Aquarium Research Centre

An inbuilt aquarium built at the centre during the seventh year plan project. It covers 24 marine tanks and eight fresh water tanks. Constructed in 1989, it focuses on displaying the marine diversity to the visitors and does various researches related to marine science. The largest aquarium in the Asia remains open from 10 am to 6 pm every day.

The Talsar Beach

It locates within 10 kilometres from the Digha and has to depend on the local transport to reach the spot. The name 'Talsari' means 'rows of the Palm trees' and the palm trees are the major attraction besides the calm sea beach. The sight of red crabs on the white sea beach, catches the visitor's attention. Trees like the palm and the casuarina cover the surrounding region. The morning fish market displays a variety of sea fish. A fascinating place to enjoy the morning sunrise and the evening sunset.

The Amravati Lake

It has the fame of one major attraction of the place. It provides the visitors with the unique opportunity of boat ride across the clean waters of the lake. A snake garden beside the lake displays different varieties of snakes to the visitors.

The Lord Shiva Temple

The ancient temple lies within seven kilometres from the Digha. An ideal place for the religious visitors and it draws a crowd on special occasions. In the first month of the Bengali year (Boishakh), an annual fair gathers devotees from different corners of India.

The three trinity strengths, of the universe, are the Goddess Kali, Goddess Lakshmi and the Goddess Saraswati. Goddess Kali known for strength/power, Goddess Lakshmi known for wealth/prosperity and Goddess Saraswati known for knowledge/arts. Saraswati, the Goddess of knowledge, arts and wisdom, holds an important place among the heart of the students. During the Saraswati Puja, they decorate the Goddess, shower flowers on her feet and pray to bless them with knowledge, wisdom and conscience. Any educated, successful and righteous person believed to have received the Goddess's blessing. Great poets/authors like the Kalidasa, Valmiki, Tulsidas, Surdas, etc., and their literary works have become immortal because of the blessing of the Goddess.

Timing

The holiest time of the celebration of this festival begins with the arrival of the spring (Vasanta). People celebrate this festival in the first week of February, every year. On the day of Vasanta Panchami, people worship the idols of Goddess Saraswati. Several educational institutes and social groups celebrate the festival in an organised way. These idols done by the talented artists gather everyone's attention.

Significance

A perfect festival for the students to pray for knowledge and wisdom from the Goddess. Knowledge makes one modest, modesty builds one's character, talent helps to earn wealth, and wealth brings happiness. So, knowledge, the root or string of all the happiness in life. This is the reason this festival holds significance in the life of students.

Celebration

<img src="Saraswati.jpg" alt="Saraswati"/>

Idols of the Goddess decorated in the homes, schools, colleges, local clubs and streets. The idols get crafted by the hands of expert artists who make these look alive and beautiful. Dressed in a white sari, the goddess sits on a white swan or on a white lotus flower and blesses her pupils with knowledge. She has the four hands that depict the four elements of human characteristics. She holds the holy book, lotus and plays the musical instrument, Veena. The students, together with the organisers decorate the idols. The mandap or the place of worship gets decorated with different coloured papers and flags. The prayer begins with the help of the experienced Brahmins (Pundits). The prayer completes with the Saraswati Vandana and the beating of drums, bells and blowing of the conch-shells. The students, make sure to put their books, pens, pencils, etc., on the feet of the Goddess. At the end of the prayer, people pay Pushpanjali (offering of flowers) to the goddess. After the Puja ceremony, the prasad or the gift of the god distributed to everyone. Reading or learning on this festive day, not allowed.

Lesson

Saraswati Puja, the most cherished festival among the student groups. This festival teaches to step ahead in the light from the darkness of ignorance. A special day dedicated to the Goddess of knowledge help us understand the value of learning and how to move ahead in our future life. Those who pray with devotion and follow a rightful life gets blessed with the almighty blessings of the Goddess. Let's again celebrate and pray together in the rightful spirit, this Saraswati Puja, for a better tomorrow.

The Gadiara picnic spot is located in the Howrah district at the confluence of the Hooghly, the Damodar and the Rupnarayan rivers. These three rivers connect the Howrah, the South 24 Parganas and the East Midnapore district.

Attractions

The natural beauty of the Gadiara town has earned it the fame of an ideal picnic spot. The place attracts visitors from the surrounding regions round the year. The village atmosphere attracts people to spend some time in the pollution free environment. A riverside silence, the view of green grass, and the chirping of the birds soothe the heart. Besides, an old fort in its ruined state and a lighthouse rest on the place. Lord Clive built the fort, years ago, during the British rule. Famous, as the Fort Mornington or Clive's fort, it eases the view of the sunrise/sunset from its top. Besides, the Geonkhali Water Treatment Plant, at Geonkhali, another attraction of the region. Furthermore, at the Geonkhali, the Mahishadal palace and the Sri Radha Krishna temples are the major attractions. One may board a boat or a steamer to cross the river and then hire a van rickshaw to reach the spot.

How to reach Gadiara

The town locates within 100 kilometres from the city, Kolkata. One may board any train going to Kharagpur from the South-East Railway Network of the Howrah Station (Kolkata) and get down at the Uluberia Station, or the Phuleswar Station or the Bagnan Station. Next, from any of these stations, one may board a bus to the Gadiara.

Besides, one may reach the Gadiara by a bus or a car via the Atanna Gate, Shampur way. Both the State owned and private buses available from the Dharmatala bus terminus (Esplanade), Kolkata. However, one easy way to reach the spot is to board a bus to the Nurpur. After crossing the river by a ferry launch, the spot lies within 12 minutes. The nearest Airport, the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, connects the place

Activities

One may enjoy the early sunrise and the evening sunset at the riverside. One may walk or sit on any of the benches on the river bank to have a glimpse of the wide stretch of the Hooghly river. Besides, one may also enjoy the bird watching activity for hours. One may spot different species of birds like the seagulls, cranes, etc., across the river front. Moreover, boating on the clear waters of the Rupnarayan is an awesome experience for the visitors. Furthermore, one may sail across the other side of the river to visit the Geonkhali picnic spot of the East Midnapore district.

Lodging

The Rupnarayan Tourist Lodge under the West Bengal Tourist Department provides the suitable lodging to the visitors. Both AC and Non-AC rooms available, here. The rent for the non-AC double bedroom ranges from RS 600 to RS 900.

Among the private hotels/lodges, the Gadiara Lodge and Resort available. The rent for the non-AC double bedroom ranges from RS 500 to RS 1200.

Contact Details

For a suitable picnic spot booking, one needs to contact the West Bengal State Tourism Development, at the Kolkata. The contact detail is given below:

West Bengal Tourist Office

Address: 3/2, B.B.D Bag,

Kolkata –700 001.

Phone number: 033-2248-8271.

The Sundarban mangrove forest, on the shore of the Bay of Bengal, has more than one hundred islands. The Kalash Dweep Island, on the Matla estuary in the South 24 Parganas, one such island flourishing in the kingdom of the Bon Bibi Goddess. Learn more about the South 24 Parganas, and its attractions from the website. The Sundarban forest never runs out of adventures as it embraces many rivers, rivulets and the land beaches. Besides, the Royal Bengal Tiger one big attraction of the forest region.

The Kalash Dweep

The Kalash Dweep Camp, covering an area of four acres, fortified by high rising fences. Moreover, a trench separates the spot from the neighboring forest areas. Furthermore, tourists not allowed to visit alone in the region as the area often frequented by wild animals including tigers. So, guards available to go with the visitors. Bird watching an absorbing activity visitors enjoy, as different species of birds crowd here. The Olive Ridley Turtles attract visitors in the monsoon as it has an ideal breeding ground for the reptiles. All these special characteristics blended with natural wild life make it an ideal destination for the visitors.

How to reach Kalash Dweep

Buses available from the Dharmatala bus terminus (Esplanade), in Kolkata for the Ram Ganga. Boats/motorboats available from the Ram Ganga for the Kalash Dweep. Besides, one may also travel in ferries from the Sajnekhali to the Kalash Dweep.

Lodging

The South 24 Parganas Forest Division Camp available for the suitable shelter. Tents, double bed cottages and ethnic cottages available for booking of the visitors. However, one may book for accommodation before leaving for the place. For the Kalash Dweep Camp booking, one needs to apply with three copies of applications at the Forest Office Department. One needs to mention name, address, age in the application and attach xerox copies of the permission letter for touring the region along with the registration number. For booking, one needs to contact the D.F.O., South 24 Parganas Forest Division.

Attractions

<img src="Crocodile.jpg" alt="Crocodile"/>

Sundarban, an awesome place on this earth, as it unfolds some unique characteristics every time one visits there. People, travelling to the place, witness it to their bones. Visitors have to depend on tides while travelling on ferries. The ferry journey takes long but it keeps one engaged absorbing the vast surrounding. Dense growth of the Sundari, Hetal, Goran, Koda, Mahagoni, Gorjon, etc., cover the region. Besides, one may find crocodiles resting on the banks of the muddy water pool. The Kalash Dweep, lying on the Ram Ganga range, well-kept and maintained for the visitors. One may plan to visit the nearby sea beaches of the Namkhana after spending a couple of days here. Moreover, one may also visit the Lothian Island Wildlife Sanctuary and the Bhagatpur Crocodile project.

Points to note

Make sure to do proper research before planning to tour the place. One have to spend more on ferry journeys. However, the cost per person may vary between RS 1,500 to RS 2000 every day.

Bakkhali, one popular weekend destination, for those who want to unwind in a peaceful and placid atmosphere. Some characteristic features of the spot including the calm sea beach, its solitude, the fresh breeze and electricity driven from the windmills make it a special one. Located in the close vicinity of the city Kolkata (130 kilometers) and within the district of South 24 Parganas of West Bengal, it attracts people during the holidays and weekends. Learn more about the South 24 Parganas and its attractions from the website.

Bakkhali: Attractions

<img src="Bakkhali beach.jpg" alt="Bakkhali"/>

The Crocodile Park locates close to the Bakkhali bus stand. The saltwater crocodiles, the tortoises, the deer and the different species of birds are the main attractions of the park. Besides, the presence of the Bono Bibi Temple, the Ganga Temple and the Bishalakshmi temple adds some religious fervor to the spot. Frasergunj, named after the British governor-general Andrew Fraser, locates within two kilometres from the beach. Visitors often cover the distance by feet, which give them the opportunity to explore the local region. At Frasergunj, locates the local fishery harbour and the house of the governor Fraser, now in its ruined state. Moreover, Jambudwip island is located within 10 kilometres from Frasergunj. Boat journey, one important activity, visitors enjoy here.

How to reach Bakkhali

Since, the place locates close to Kolkata, people come here during the weekends and holidays. An absorbing experience to spend time in the peaceful and pollution free atmosphere. The different options available to reach here from Kolkata.

Bus Route: Direct buses of the West Bengal Surface Transport Corporation (WBSTC) available from the Dharmatala bus terminus. It takes four hours to reach the spot. Besides, several state-run and private buses also run for the Namkhana. Boats available from the Hatania Doania river bank to cross the river. After crossing the river, one may hire a rickshaw, trekker or board a bus for Bakkhali.

Rail Route: It takes two and a half hours to reach Bakkhali via the rail route. Trains available from the Sealdah Station (South Section) for the Namkhana. Van rickshaws available from the station to the Hatania-Doania river bank. After crossing the river, one may hire a trekker or board a bus for Bakkhali.

Lodging

Several hotels available for the visitors for suitable lodgings at the Bakkhali and the Frasergunj. However, the West Bengal State Tourism Development Corporation deserves a special mention. Rent for a two bedrooms range from RS 2000 to RS 5000. Besides, Sangam, Amravati and Sahana are the private lodges of the region.

Plenty of hotels/resorts available for booking at the Frasergunj. One may plan to stay at the Benfish Bungalow, for suitable lodging. The contact details, given below:

Benfish

P-161/1, VIP Road, 4th Floor,

Kolkata – 700 054.

Henry Island, one best weekend tourist spot, locates in the South 24 Parganas of the West Bengal. Understandably, it attracts tourists, mostly from the nearby regions, including the metropolitan city Kolkata. Since, the distance 130 kilometres not too far from the city, people from the Kolkata and surrounding regions find it as an ideal place to revitalise their energies. The village atmosphere, the scenic beauty, the water bodies, the sea beach, and the chirping of the birds lure one to spend a day or two in the sphere of nature far away from the rigmarole of a regular city life.

Henry Island: Attractions

<img src="Henry Island.jpg" alt="Henry Island"/>

True, this nearby sea beach, locating in the calm atmosphere, one big attraction of the spot. Besides, the thick canopy of mangrove growth adds color and shade to the spot. Popular, as the neighbouring weekend sea beach resort of the Sundarban, it backpacks the Sundari, Hetal, Dhudal, Goran, Gaon, Banyan trees, etc. Moreover, several varieties of birds like the woodpecker, the red knot, the whistling ducks nest in the locality. Of course, the red crabs, though shy, welcome the visitors on the sandy sea beaches. Further, spreading over more than 200 hectares of land, it hosts several canals and lakes for pisciculture.

Activities

One may enjoy the fishing activity carried out by fishers near the canals and lakes in the morning. One may spot fishers busy with their vessels in the oceans. The evening sunset equally absorbing to the visitors. Moreover, the Sundari Complex Tower gives one the unique opportunity to roll their eyeballs on the surrounding scenic beauties from a raised platform. One may explore some of the surrounding islands of the Sundarban from its top. Visitor travelling here, may also plan to visit the Bakkhali. Learn more about Bakkhali, how to reach there and its attractions from the website. The distance, between the places, is three kilometers. One may cover the distance by walking or by hiring a van rickshaw.

How to reach Henry Island

Bus Route: State Transport buses available from the Dharmatala (Esplanade) bus terminus. One may board any of these buses to reach the Bakkhali. Alternatively, one may board any of the buses going to the Namkhana from the Dharmatala Bus Terminus. From Namkhana, one needs to cross the Hatania Doania river. Next, one has to board a jetty to reach the Henry Island.

Rail Route: One have to board the Namkhana local from the Sealdah Station and get down at the Namkhana Station. Van rickshaws available from the station to the Hatania Doania river. After crossing the river, one has to board a trekker to reach the Henry Island.

Lodging and contact details

Two resorts of the State Fisheries available for a suitable night stay. The Sundari Resort has the two bedrooms available for rent. Rent of a double bedroom is RS 800. Besides, the Mangrove Resort also has the two bedrooms with rent ranging from RS 200 to RS 500. The rent for the AC double bedroom ranges from RS 800 to RS 1000.

For booking one needs to contact:

State Fisheries Development Corporation

North Block,

Bikash Bhavan,

Salt Lake,

Phone Number: 033-2358-2123.

Sabuj Deep locates comfortably in the map of the Hooghly district, West Bengal. People recognize it as one ideal picnic spot at confluence of the Hooghly and the Behula rivers. Since the island lies 75 kilometres away from the metropolitan city, Kolkata, it nurtures a clean, pollution free, tranquil and green environment. It attracts visitors in volumes from the Kolkata city and the neighboring districts of the West Bengal state. It attracts visitors of all age groups, including small children and the aged. Rightly so! It has something to offer for everyone and this is one reason for its recent rise in a popularity.

The Sabuj Deep Natural Garden and Resort

<img src="Sabujdeep.jpg" alt="Sabujdeep"/>

The island has the thick growth of the Akashmoni, Eucalyptus, Krishnachura, Arjuna, Sal, Mahogany, Segun (Teak), and Debdaru (Ashoka) trees. Besides, several other varieties of green plantations, including the trees, flowers and shrubs cover the region. The natural green canopy, park filled with different species of flowers and bushes, the fresh water bodies running by and the colorful flocks of migratory birds has earned it the fame of a popular picnic spot in no time. The Hooghly Zilla Parishad has nurtured and developed this picnic spot, keeping in view the rich natural characteristics of the region intact. Learn more about the top picnic spots in the Hooghly district from this website.

Attractions

<img src="Sabujdeep river view.jpg" alt="Sabujdeep river view"/>

The beautiful park, the big flower garden, the open space restaurants and the spot near the river bank all set up the place for an ideal picnic spot. Besides, spot bathrooms and drinking water facilities available to the visitors. One may enjoy boat riding at the free time or looking at the small boats in the rivers searching for fishes. Moreover, the view of the evening sunset, near the river side, sets up the mood. Some of the boats make their way to the river banks, the flowing river current slows down and the twittering of the birds remind its time to get back home. The Sabuj Deep Natural Garden and Resort remain open from 8 am to 6 pm every day. The last boat to ferry boating available at 4 pm. One needs to pay RS 20 (without boating facility) and RS 25 (including the boating facility) as an entry fee, per person. One needs to pay RS 50 for a suitable picnic spot booking. Some eating houses available inside the spot for the visitors. From here, one may travel to the nearby Balagarh Temple attraction, locating less than 500m from the picnic spot

How to reach Sabuj Deep

Regular local trains available from the Sealdah and Howrah Stations. Local train like the Katwa local available from the stations to get to the Somra Bazar Station, at Balagarh, in the Bandel/Katwa railway network. Rickshaws available from the station to the Sukharia Gram Ferry Ghat. From here, boats available for the Sabuj Deep Natural Garden.

Contact details

One needs to book the spot, at least, two weeks before visiting the place. For suitable booking one has to contact the Hooghly Zilla Parishad or the Balagarh Panchayat Samity.

Are you the one who loves nature, water bodies and birds? If your answer is affirmative, then Rasikbill, also known as the Rashikbill, is the right place for you. It is located in the Cooch Behar district in the state of West Bengal. Spreading over 175 hectares in the Sinchula hills, it was once the hunting spot of the Koch kings. Now, popular as an ideal spot for the bird watching and surrounding a lake in the middle, it invites several varieties of birds in the winters while several local birds rest of the year. Rasikbill has some swamps or low water lands together with the natural flora and fauna that make it the befitting spot for the birds to mushroom in its vicinity . A village resides beside the forest region.

Attractions and activities

<img src="Rasikbill.jpg" alt="Rasikbill"/>

The big lake in the region in one big attraction of the place. You may enjoy boat riding in the cool breeze and crystal clear waters of the lake. The surrounding greenery of the adjoining forests would lure you to spend most of time on the boats. While on the boat you could spot different varieties of the local birds like the Common Kingfishers, Northern Shoveller, Cotton Pygmy-Goose and several migratory birds. Moreover, the Aquarium of the Fishery Department, the Deer Park, the Museum, the Python Rehabilitation Centre at Bachamari, the Crocodile Rehabilitation Centre, the Tortoise Rehabilitation Centre are the other top nearby attractions of the region. Of course, the Children Park keeps the youngsters engaged for long.

Furthermore, the Cooch Behar district with rich cultural fervour has some of the noteworthy temples (Madan Mohan Temple), Cooch Behar palace (Rajbari), royal buildings, forests (Gorumara Forest) and picnic spots (Jaldhaka picnic spot), etc.

How to reach Rasikbill

Board any of the trains from the Kolkata going towards the Guwahati and get down at the Kamakhyaguri Station. It locates within six kilometres from the station. Autos available from the exit point of the station. Besides, the New Cooch Behar Railway Station connects well with all the other main cities of India.

Lodging

Lodges of the West Bengal Forest Department available for suitable staying. The hire of the cottage ranges from RS 1000 to RS 1200. One may book a suitable lodge from the Kolkata Office. Alternatively, one may stay in any of the lodges available in the Cooch Behar and visit Rasikbill.

Best time to travel

It experiences the moderate type of climate favouring the visitors to tour the place at any time of the year. However, one should avoid travelling during the monsoon season from July to September.

Saptasajya locates 12 kilometers away from the Dhenkanal district in Orissa. The word “Saptasajya” means seven beds. According to the mythology, these seven beds are the beds of the Lord Vishnu – The Protector. However, the place also relates closely with other religious and traditional beliefs. People believe, once Lord Ramchandra, along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana spent few days here during his exile. Moreover, the spectacular characters of the holy Mahabharata, the five Pandavas, once took refuge in the Saptasajya forest in disguise (angyantavasa). Furthermore, the locals believe that the seven hills of the spot symbolise the seven meditation places of the seven sages. Among the festivals, the Ram Navami festival deserves a special mention. Not only does it attracts a special crowd during the festive days, but people celebrate it here for three days with full enthusiasm.

Saptasajya: Attractions

<img src="Saptasajya.jpg" alt="Saptasajya"/>

Whatever may have been the reason behind the name of the place or the place being holy, if one has to express the beauty of the place in a phrase – It is simply – Superb! The spot blessed with seven hills, seven caves and seven hills running down from the peaks. The greenery spreads all around with the thick growths of the evergreen trees. Different species of the plants like the Orchids and the Cycas cover the region. The dense forest has greater medicinal value as it has a rich growth of some rare medicinal plants. The hills inhibited by the deer, hyenas, tigers, insects, snakes and butterflies. Several varieties of the birds live and breed in the green nature. The roads leading to the Saptasajya refreshes the tiring visitors by its beauty, especially when one travels to the Raghunath Temple. A hundred steps ascent would take one to the corridor of the temple. Besides, one may also plan to visit the Goddess Durga Temple, the Goddess Kali Temple, the Kalki Narayan Temple and the Lord Shiva Temple. Moreover, the place also invites the trekking enthusiasts. Boat riding, an absorbing activity visitors enjoy here.

Nearby attraction: After touring the spot one may also plan to visit the Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary in the Lapanga Forest.

How to reach Saptasajya

One may board a train to Cuttack, in Orissa. Bhubaneswar, in Orissa connects well with the rail and air routes to the different cities of India. From Cuttack, buses available for the Dhenkanal. Another bus journey from here would take one to the Saptasajya. Alternatively, one may hire a car to the spot. However, one should bargain and fix the price before boarding on any of the cars.

Lodging

Saptasajya do not have any lodges/hotels for staying. One may book a lodge at the DhenKanal. Some of these hotels/lodges provide pickup facility at an extra cost. Some of the suitable lodges available for hire listed below along with their rents.

Hotel Shakuntala: Hire for a double bedroom ranges from RS 450 to RS 800.
Hotel Surya: One may hire a double bedroom for RS 750. For hiring an AC double bedroom, one needs to pay RS 1500.

www.lifebreezy.com gives priority and respect to every visitor's privacy to its site and therefore, it describes below what personal information it collects from the visitors of this site and how it uses the same.

Like any other web servers, www.lifebreezy.com collects general information of the visitors like Internet Protocol address, entry pages, exit pages, referring pages, Internet Service Provider, etc. However, these information does not personally identify any of the visitors of the site and these general information is used for regular maintenance and managing of the site.

www.lifebreezy.com uses cookies to store visitors information like their browsing history, preference, etc. This is important because it helps to serve the visitors of the site better. Moreover, advertising partner/partners of www.lifebreezy.com may also use cookies/scripts from their own servers to track visitors information and behavior so that they could serve better advertisements/ information in the site. They have their own respective policy for the same.

If any of the visitors have a privacy concern, he/she could change the settings of the browser to disable cookies. However, disabling cooking in full, for all the sites is not advisable and it may cause problem in overall browsing experience. One may enable/disable cookies on site basis. Visitors are advised to check with the web browsers cookie management information on their respective site.

Weekend destinations give the opportunity to recharge one's energy. A destination that locates within the close proximity not only saves the time but also saves from the unnecessary expenditures. Moreover, an offbeat or not so popular weekend destination has the charisma to satisfy the inner spirits to the full. Besides, the idea of exploring an unknown spot along with the family adds a certain degree of excitement and thrill on the card. The Deucha village weekend spot lies close to the Kolkata city and it would soon gather the attention among the nature lovers.

Deucha Village: Attractions

Deucha, an independent village, in the Birbhum district of the West Bengal state. The Eco Resort located at the meeting point of the Dwarka river and its canal. The spot, an ideal destination, to spend a couple of days (weekends) in the rural ambiance far away from the unwanted crowd of the city life. The wide open sky overhead, the clayey roadways, the cool breeze and the tranquil locality all set to welcome one to the place. The slow movement of the bullock carts on the clay roads, farmers busy in the fields and the cattle grazing around adds to the beauty of the spot. The chirping of the sparrows break the silence in between. One best way for nature lovers to witness the natural beauty of the spot to get up early in the morning and go for a walk near the river through the wet clayey road. The river flows by the village and invites different migratory birds. One may hire a boat to sail on the river and view the surrounding region from the water body. Furthermore, the children would love this place as it well equipped to entertain and engage them for long.

Nearby Destination: Visitors who travel here may also visit the Shantiniketan.

How to reach the Deucha Village

The spot located 250 kilometres away from the metropolitan city Kolkata. Buses available for the place from the Dharmatala bus terminus. Alternatively, one may board any train going to the Rampurhat from the Howrah or the Sealdah Station. Local conveyance available from the station to reach the spot. The Eco resort also provides car at an extra cost to the visitors.

Lodging and Food

One may plan to stay at the Deucha Eco Resort. Suitable tents, cottages, and AC bed rooms available for rent ranging from RS 750 to RS 2500. Food is also available at the resort.

Since the Talasari beach lies 200 kilometres away from the metropolitan city Kolkata, it attracts regular visitors from the city and its surroundings. It is located in the Baleswar/Balasore district of the Orissa state. A place known for the long rows of palm trees and the sea beaches. Besides, the Casuarina trees and the coconut trees enhance the greenery of the spot. The place experiences hot summers while the winter temperature ranges from 12 to 14 degree Celsius. One may visit the place any time of the year except the hot summer months. Though the beach, neither popular nor often toured by the visitors compared to the other beaches of the state, but it promises something unique to the visitors.

Talasari: Attractions

<img src="Talasari Beach.jpg" alt="Talasari"/>

View of the Talasari Beach in Orissa

The cool sea breeze pacifies the inner soul whilst the view of the uneven tides touching the endless shores, a treat to the eyes. The distant blue hills, the paddy fields and several water bodies welcome the visitors. One may also notice the red crabs on the wet sea beach. All these, assure the visitors they are at the right place to spend a couple of days (weekends).

The backwaters, another attraction at the Talasari. One has to cross the stream to reach the main seashore spot. During tides, one has to cross the water body riding on boats to reach the main spot. The morning sunrise attracts the visitors to come, and experience the beauty of the place. During the day one may spot fishers fishing with their nets in the sea. The evening sunset brings with it the calmness as everything around rests in peace. The dusk, lefts one alone only with the sounds of the waves crashing to the shores.

How to reach Talasari

The Talasari beach locates 10 to 12 kilometres from the Digha. Learn more about Digha, how to reach there and its attractions from the website. One may hire a van or a car from the Digha to reach the Talasari beach. The Bhubaneswar Airport is located 300 kilometres away from the Talasari.

Lodging/Food

The Orissa Tourism Development Corporation or the OTDC has the Panthanivas for the visitors. Recently, it renovated to offer better facilities to the visitors. One may book rooms from the OTDC's Kolkata office or online at www.otdc.in. The contact details for booking at the Kolkata office, given below:

Orissa Tourism,

55, Lenin Sarani,

Kolkata 700 013

Phone Number: 033 2249 3653

Hire for the non AC double bedroom is RS 800 while the hire for an AC double bedroom is RS 1400. Moreover, hiring a suite costs RS 1750. The restaurant has the option for the visitors to choose their favourite dishes.

Gautam could not sleep, tonight, because tomorrow he has to meet his wife, Nisha, on the court. They have not seen each other for two years. Yes! For two long years, they are living away from each other – Nisha with her parents and Gautam at his own house, alone. Tomorrow, after going through all the legal formalities, they would get divorced.

Gautam, a school teacher by profession in a government aided school, made it clear to his wife before

marriage about his limited earnings. Nisha agreed and they tied the holy knot. Soon, after the marriage, Nisha secured a job in a multinational company (MNC). She wanted her husband to leave his present job and join a better job – A job that guarantees a better salary and a secure future.

However, it is difficult for Guatam to even think about giving up teaching. He has done it for so many years and now teaching not only his hobby, but also his passion. He not only teaches the students for the sake of teaching, but also educates them so that they could secure good marks before leaving the school for colleges. He has the charisma to inspire the weakest of students in the school to secure high marks within a few months with his abilities and experienced guidance. Nisha tried her best to persuade her hubby to secure a better job, but failed in her initiative. Finally, one fine day, she left him and went to live with her parents.

Nisha is a practical woman of today while Gautam is someone who lives in the virtual world of dreams and theories. For instance, a morning dawn for Nisha meant a new day to work hard and earn livelihood where as for Gautam it meant hearing the cacophony of birds, glaring at the dew drops spread over the green leaves or an opportunity to walk barefoot on the green grass. Now, you may argue, both of them are right in their views, but believe me, there is a difference – Difference in the thoughts, ideas and approach towards life!

Next morning, Gautam and Nisha met at the court, as scheduled before. After getting divorced, they took their respective ways out of the courtroom. Gautam went to the spot, he used to meet Nisha before their marriage. He went under the tree where they used to sit for hours before their marriage dreaming and planning about their future. Perhaps, he was cursing himself by saying, “Hey! Look at me, I am the teacher who solved the most difficult problems for my students, but could not solve a simple problem of my life.” He thought, the leaves of the tree, unsettled by the breeze, teasing him by calling him a failure. He could not bear this any longer and left the spot, at once.

<img src="A Couple.jpg" alt="A Couple"/>

He came back home and saw the main door open. He went inside to find Nisha resting on a chair with his personal diary on her hand. He whispered, “Nishu – Sorry! Nisha-ji (Since they divorced) I have kept your jewelries safe.” He opens the locker, takes out the jewelry box and hands it to her. She kept the jewelry box aside and unfolds her palm, which has vermilion (the holy red Sindoor). She said, “Who cares for jewelries, success, riches and for a better future, when one has the gem of a person in her life.” Both of them broke into tears holding each other, and the words like … Divorce ... No more ... Never .., could only be heard from outside the room. In no time, their sobbing changed into high-pitched giggles that could be heard from a distance, outside.

Pension comes in handy when one retires from job or business. Not only it provides financial security, but also moving on smoothly when one comes of age. Therefore, one needs to opt for a suitable pension plan today for a stable tomorrow. Pension plan varies in nature/types and it has become diversified with time to suit its customers. One could enroll in pension plan schemes either through the employer or institutes like insurance companies and banks. Important to mention here that in the past pension plans were only limited to government employees. However, keeping the interest of people in mind, anyone now could the opportunity including the non-government employees and business people.

Pension Plan

A pension plan, actually a retirement plan, guarantees an assured (fixed) sum of money to the pensioner regularly. This plan benefits all the pensioners irrespective of anyone working in the government sector, private sector or engaged in business.

The LIC Pension Plan

As said before, one could choose a suitable pension plan with an insurance company or a bank of one's choice. For instance, the LIC or the Life Insurance Company Of India has suitable plans favoring the same. The LIC has the two types of pension plans called the Immediate pension plan and the Deferred pension plan. In the Immediate policy, the pension starts soon after investing in the plan. Contrast to this is the Deferred policy whereby the pension starts after 25 years of investment. One may choose a suitable plan from any of these two plans.

Age Requisites: The minimum age need for the Immediate policy is 30 years and for the Deferred policy is 18 years.

Investment in pension plans

The minimum amount required for the Immediate policy is RS One lakh three thousand and ninety. One may invest more as there is no limit for maximum investment. However, there is no such rule in the Deferred policy as one needs to pay RS 6000 annually. Certainly, one may invest more if one wants. Besides, one may pay the premium in one go or on the per month basis.

Benefits of pension plans

Apart from the financial benefits, one also gets the security for the future. The present rate of Interest in the LIC Immediate policy is 6.9 percent. One may withdraw the pension every month or once annually. Furthermore, once the Deferred policy gets matured, one would get the value at the then rate of interest. If required, one may withdraw the amount after three years. In that case, the sum assured and bonus would depend on the number of premium paid untill date.

Documents required

The following documents required:

Photocopy of address proof
Photocopy of Identity proof
Photocopy of Age proof
Income Proof (In case of bigger investments)

Things to remember

Before investing in any policy, one needs to make sure to find out every details of the policy. The interest rates also changes every year. One may pay a visit to the nearest bank, insurance company, surf the websites concerned or contact the financial advisors.

Some of the banks that offer pension plan policies are the State Bank Of India, Allahabad Bank, Central Bank Of India, etc. Some of the policies provide guarantee bonus, maturity benefits, death benefit, life cover, etc.

To find out more details one may log into www.sbilife.co.in, www.allahabadbank.in, www.centralbankofindia.co.in

At the moment, Mass Communication and Journalism course baking hot for a suitable career. Even though, one may find many reasons for the same, but the varied prospect of this course is one main reason behind it. Therefore, in comparison with other courses, this course is at the top of the preference list of many. Now, the big question, who can pursue this career? Well, the answer is anyone who loves the company of the people (social), has abilities to carry on researches on any given subject and has the flair for writing. Moreover, this course guarantees a decent salary, scope to express one's creativity and several career opportunities in the future.

About the Mass Communication and Journalism course

Thinking about a suitable career?

Firstly, one should mind out that this job is not like the regular ten to five jobs. Having a job profile in mass communication means one is ready for the 24 X 7 work slot. Secondly, for the common interest of the masses one should keep one's own personal interest at bay. The job profile itself demands to shoulder others responsibility before anything else. However, at the end, it gives one the self-satisfaction, personal identity and success. Several Government/Non-government colleges and institutes offer this course at different levels like the Bachelors, Masters, Short-term diploma and the Post Graduation Courses. Though duration of these courses varies, but one gets the opportunity to get trained and equipped in various work skills. Listed below are some of the institutes that offer the course:

Indian Institute Of Mass Communication

State – Delhi Website – www.iimc.in/

Calcutta University

State – West Bengal Website – www.caluniv.ac.in

Symbiosis Institute Of Media And Communication

State – Pune Website – simc.edu/

Mumbai University

State – Maharashtra Website – www.mcjmumbai.org/

Required Qualification

Students regardless of any stream (Humanities/Commerce/Science) could pursue a career in this profession. One needs to have a good set of communication skills. Ability to present complex subjects and unknown information in a simplified way to the people. Besides, some other requisites like hard work, patience and smart work, crisis management talents, ability to understand the difference between facts/fiction and presence of mind are essential. One has an option to pursue a graduation or a post graduation course. For better prospects and jobs, one needs to have a post graduation diploma or a degree in mass communication and journalism.

Expenses/Income

While pursuing the course much emphasis given in practical than theory therefore one has to go through several fieldwork, projects and internships. All these, in turn adds up to the cost of the course. For the undergraduate course, one has to spend RS 60,000 to RS 1,00,000. In comparison, the diploma or the short-term course costs less. The cost for the short-term courses start from RS 10,000 to RS 20,000. However, in government institutes, the cost for these courses, is less. Besides, some institutes has options for scholarships. A candidate may also opt for educational loans from banks.

A mass communication and degree holder has a range of career options. The pay package, though decent, depends upon the institute from where one has done the course. At the beginning of the career, as a trainee, one may earn RS 5000 to RS 10,000. After getting permanent in the job, the salary cap may rise to RS 15,000 to 25,000. With time, energy and experience, one gets an identity and establishes a name for oneself. Then, one may earn RS 50,000 to RS 1,00.000 per month.

Career Prospect

After completing the course, one has a lot of career options like the electronic media, web media, publishing house, TV/Films, public relation, advertising, editor, producer, director, art director, script writer, photo journalist, Radio/TV jockey, copy writer, etc. Since, the options too many, one may choose a profession according to one's interest. Moreover, one could also switch from one profession to another.

Sometimes, I find people grumbling not having too many weekend destinations nearby the city Kolkata. However, I feel this type of presumption comes to play in mind when one remains unaware about the surroundings and its suburbs. This has made me come up with an exciting, interesting and peaceful weekend destination locating close to Kolkata, West Bengal. The Piyali Island lures people to come, enjoy and spent some time in peace in the sphere of nature. It is also the one of the many entrances to the Sundarban mangrove forest. Therefore, often, people travelling to the Sundarban do not mind relaxing here for some time in the midst of their journey. The Sudhanyakhali, the Netidhopani and the Sajnekhali connects with the Piyali through the waterways. Piyali, a small river, mixes with the Matla river at the Piyali Island.

How to get there

It locates only 78 kilometres away from the metropolitan city, Kolkata, in the West Bengal state. It takes around two and a half hours by road from Kolkata to get there. There are many roads route to reach there, (depending on the place where one starts from Kolkata). The most common way would be via the Baruipur, Gocharan and the Dhosa. Alternatively, one board the Lakhikantapur Local from the Sealdah Station (South Section) and get down at the Barasat Station. One needs to journey another 24 kilometres in a trekker from the station.

Attractions and activities

<img src=''Piyali river.jpg'' alt=''Piyali''/>

View of the Piyali river at dusk

One could enjoy a boat ride at the vast expanse of the river viewing the surrounding greenery on both the sides. The vast expanse of green paddy fields share the pleasure of calmness and tranquillity with the visitors. The beautiful surrounding gears up the inner spirit to relax in the rural ambiance far away from the boredom of city life. Though one may trip the place at any time of the year, but the best time to trip is between October to March. During winter, different types of migratory birds flock in the region. The beautiful charisma of the Piyali river at the dawn touches the soul.

Moreover, during the high tide of the moon lit night, the view of the shinning waters of the river could stay in one's sweet memory for a long time. Furthermore, one may also plan to visit the nearby places like Kaikhali (around 17 kilometres from here) and the Jharkhali. Learn more about the Kaikhali, its attractions/activities and how to get there from the website.

Lodging

For a cosy stay at the Piyali, the Piyali Island Tourist Lodge available for the visitors. The lodge has the plenty of double bedrooms with suitable infrastructure to suffice the needs of the visitors (around 19 double bedrooms). The rent per room is RS 850 and the cost of food is RS 350 per day.