Category: Transforming Travels
Kausani, Uttarakhand: The Switzerland of India with Stunning Himalayan Views
1. Introduction – Why Kausani Is Called the Switzerland of India It is one of the most peaceful Himalayan villages in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. This destination is a quiet place, unlike overcrowded hill stations, where one can travel slowly and enjoy uninterrupted views of the Himalayas. This is exactly why the term ‘Kausani, Switzerland of India’ remains very appealing to tourists seeking the untamed beauty of nature. The comparison goes back to Mahatma Gandhi, who stayed here in 1929. During his visit, he was deeply impressed by its vast Himalayan landscape and the serene environment. As a result, ... Read more
Bal Mithai and the Best Foods of Almora You Must Experience
1. Introduction – Exploring the Real Foods in Almora Beyond Bal Mithai Naturally, no conversation about Almora feels complete without mentioning its most famous sweet, Bal Mithai. Locals prepare it by roasting khoya and coating it with tiny sugar balls. The culturally rich and picturesque town of Almora, nestled in the Himalayas of the Kumaon region, is much more than a picturesque location. It is an animated repository of traditions, and its cuisine narrates a history formed by geography and climate, by centuries of local wisdom. The core of this culinary identity is Kumaoni cuisine, a style rooted in sustainability, ... Read more
Kasar Devi Temple, Almora: Mystery and Magnetic Field Explained
Kasar Devi Temple is famous for its magnetic field and sits quietly in Almora in Uttarakhand. Over the years, monks, backpackers, writers, and researchers have visited Kasar Devi Temple, drawn by its calm surroundings and mysterious aura. Though it’s located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, it feels extremely different from its surroundings. People say it sits inside a rare geomagnetic zone, sometimes compared to the Van Allen belts. Scientists talk about energy, but visitors just feel it. All this spirituality and science has made Kasar Devi, Almora, one of the most discussed yet secret places of the Himalayas. Kasar ... Read more
Why Uzbekistan Food Will Exceed All Expectations
Uzbekistan food is among the least recognised in the world. Although the country has a history of the Silk Road and beautiful architecture, the food culture is what amazes the travellers the most. Each dish is a symbol of centuries of tradition, cultural exchange, and hospitality. You will soon discover that there is one thing you will learn during your visit to Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan’s food is not merely about food consumption. It has to do with connection. It unites people, perpetuates traditions, and narrates stories with each bite. In the crowded streets and markets, in the small family houses, each ... Read more
Chitai Golu Devta Temple Almora: The Sacred Court of Justice with Bells and Letters
1. Introduction to Chitai Golu Devta Temple One of the most exclusive holy places in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand is the Chitai Golu Devta Temple. In this case, faith does not stay silent. Rather, it has a written, visible form in the form of letters and bells. At Chitai Golu Devta Temple, devotees do not always express prayers verbally; instead, they write them as letters and submit them as petitions. Moreover, people frequently arrive with problems that they cannot resolve anywhere else. Consequently, over time and through deep faith, this place has come to symbolize justice. In addition, the ... Read more
Katarmal Sun Temple: The 9th-Century Architectural Marvel You’ve Never Heard Of
1. Introduction – A Forgotten Sun Shrine in the Hills of Kumaon Katarmal Sun Temple sits quietly on a forested ridge near Almora, mostly unnoticed by tourists who flock to Kumaon. It’s old. It’s architecturally impressive. Yet, if you ask most people traveling through the region, they have no idea it’s even there. That’s why you should check the Transforming Travels Almora & Kausani tour once before planning a tour to go there. Locals call it the Katarmal Surya Temple, a nod to its dedication to the Sun God, Surya. Long ago, this place was just as important to the ... Read more
Arunachal Pradesh ILP: Complete Inner Line Permit Guide for Travellers
If you are planning to travel to Arunachal Pradesh, you must apply for an Inner Line Permit (ILP) before entering the state. This guide explains how to apply for an Arunachal Pradesh ILP online, the required documents, fees, validity, and common mistakes to avoid. Who needs ILP: All Indian citizensWhere to apply: Official ILP portalValidity: Usually 14 daysFee: ₹300–₹500Processing time: Same day to 24 hours 1. What is Arunachal Pradesh ILP? When you plan a trip to Arunachal Pradesh, you must first understand the Inner Line Permit. Many travellers discover the Arunachal Pradesh ILP only after they start researching the ... Read more
Bum La Pass: Complete Travel Guide from Tawang
Bum La Pass Quick Facts Location: Near Tawang, Arunachal PradeshAltitude: 15,200 ftDistance from Tawang: 37 kmPermit required: YesBorder: India–China Line of Actual Control 1. Bum La Pass: Where the Road Meets the Border Bum La Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass located near Tawang, in Arunachal Pradesh, at around 15,200 feet. It lies on the India–China border and is one of the most sensitive yet accessible border points that tourists can visit in India. Bum La is remote and wild, unlike other crowded hill stations. The mountains are covered in snow for most of the year. Strong winds blow across the ... Read more
Tawang Monastery: Travel Guide, History, Timings & Best Time (2026)
Tawang Monastery emerges from the misty Himalayan clouds, offering a serene, spiritual view in Arunachal Pradesh. 1. Introduction to Tawang Monastery Tawang Monastery, located at an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet in Arunachal Pradesh, is the largest monastery in India and one of the most significant centres of Tibetan Buddhism. This travel guide includes its history, opening hours, the best time to visit, entry fees, and additional tips for travellers. Tawang Monastery is situated 2km west of Tawang town centre, West Kameng district, close to the Indo-China border. This magnificent monastery, overlooking the Tawang valley, is not only a worship ... Read more
30 Best Places to Visit in Arunachal Pradesh (2026 Travel Guide)
Arunachal Pradesh is one of India’s most remote and scenic states, known for monasteries, high-altitude passes, and tribal culture. Most travellers plan a 6–10 day itinerary covering Tawang, Dirang, and Ziro Valley. If you are searching for the best places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh, this guide covers 30 destinations across the state, from famous monasteries in Tawang to remote valleys near the Indo-China border. Travellers who want to explore these places through a guided Himalayan journey can also check curated trips to Arunachal Pradesh by Transforming Travels. Entrance of the historic Tawang War Memorial, honouring soldiers who fought in ... Read more