Your big day of dreams is ahead of you. You cannot wait to make it official. Family and friends, all are excited to be a part of your day. You want your wedding to be perfectly designed. Weddings are about many intangible moments. A successful wedding celebration depends upon the choices you make. In between tons of things, you are required to filter the ‘wedding space.’ The wedding venue is the most crucial element which requires careful attention.

So, before you, both say, ”we do,” make a wise choice and choose a perfect hall to impress all. Below are a few steps which will guide you to make a stress free plan.

1. Define your budget

Wedding planning comes with a lot of excitement. Add to the excitement by pre-planning the events. Weddings are all about various fun events. Map out the elements and list a budget. Pen down the intricate elements ‘decoration’, ‘food,’ ‘stay’ and ‘photography.’ An indoor banquet hall is perfect for a ‘winter wedding.’

Budgeting can assist you in choosing a fabulous venue with great service. Budget means an approximation of expenses that are allowed on each occasion. Firstly, know the maximum amount you can spend. Secondly, decide the location where functions have to occur. Thirdly, look for online offers available in different wedding halls. To check the offers you can always talk to specialists. Finally, choose the best option within your budget.

2. Evaluate the location

Location is an essential aspect while finalizing the wedding venue. The location should have ample space for organizing various small and big events. For a local wedding, choose a space which is easily reachable and accessible for the guests.

The location should possess ample parking space. Most of the time venue booking is done without studying the locations. One needs to visit the site before finalizing the location to host an event.

Check wedding service providers who offer a variety of venues with best locations. You’ll get ‘Hotels,’ ‘Banquets’ and ‘Marriage halls’ which provide explicit catering and accommodation services. The staff is equipped with ready-to-use solutions for each complex need. The online specialist schedule meetings, so you can visit the site personally.

Always select a wedding banquet hall which has the following facilities:

• Approachable venues which are located nearby posh areas.
• The Management Reserves ample parking space
• The Venue can be located via GPS for local travellers
• Provides accommodation and extra rooms for single or group stay
• Various cuisines and food items are available as per the request

3. Conduct proper research

You might have googled “how to choose a wedding banquet hall’ hundreds of time.

Why not make the best use of technology? Solutions are just a few clicks away!  You always look for ‘ratings’ and ‘reviews’ while ordering food online.  Don’t you?  Then why not use this superpower and check the actual reviews and ratings of wedding venues?

Banquet halls illustrated online have customer reviews and ratings. Most of them are genuine and can be relied upon. Based on these votes, you can check the authenticity of the venue and know about their hosting service.

4. Ask for an expert opinion

There is a various dedicated website which allows you to book hotels and banquets online. You can always talk to the representative and ask a couple of questions.

The specialists will help you book the banquet at the most affordable rates. You will be provided with a tailor-made solution as per your requirements.

Seems easy right!

Let’s walk you through a set of questionnaire that will help you discover your needs for an ideal wedding function.

• The availability of the venue for your wedding date.
• Does that date require a pre-booking?
• You can always ask for suggestions and flexibility of options.
• Discount available for different seasons
• The duration for which the venue can be used(Number of Hours)
• Additional amount required for extending the hours
• In-house and Additional facilities provided

5. Decide on the theme of your wedding

Your wedding arrangements will be a piece of cake, once you do theme finalization. A theme gives the wedding a frame which leads to further decorations including lights, and flowers. Wedding theme could be ‘Traditional,’ ‘Fusion’ ‘Rustic’ or ‘Royal.’ Choose Banquet halls which incorporate various themes, so you are left with options.

• The traditional wedding theme: It is all about, idols, flowers, and mystic backdrop. Instrumental music like shehnai with a tinge of the flute is heavenly. Food is served in traditional style. For a traditional style wedding, less is more. It easily blends with the ambiance and style.
• Royal wedding theme: Colours play a vital role, the shade of red is given more importance. A royal theme is for those who want their wedding to be glamorous. They want special arrangements just like the royalties. A royal theme is made grand with ‘candles,’ ‘chandeliers,’ ‘folk dancers,’ ‘traditional music,’ ‘art and crafts.’ Life effects make this theme unforgettable. Mannequins and artifacts add glitter to the Regal Ambiance.
• The flower theme: Another spectacular theme for the perfect wedding is “Flower Theme.” The entrance is decorated with flowers. Different Colour tones, orchids, roses add a magical touch. With fragrance all around a flower, theme enlightens soul with happiness and calm. The ambiance turns pious with embellishments, mirrors, and flowy curtains. This theme is more about simplicity and charm.

6. Evaluate the wedding banquet hall

For evaluating the wedding venue, here is a checklist for you:

• Catering services: Always choose Banquets with affordable catering services and unconventional food choices. The bespoke menu includes Multi Cuisine like Continental, Italian, Mughlai, Chinese, Indian. Food served is known for purity and quality. The food served is so good that its taste will linger on mind for years. You can always ask for customized decorated fruit corners. Drinks, cocktails, can be arranged on demand.  Any celebration is incomplete with those sumptuous sweets. The catering staff equally manages to serve delectable treats to satisfy all the cravings.
• Size of the hall:  A wedding is incomplete without guests.  Music, chit chats, dances, set the celebration mood. So, whether it is mehendi, sangeet or shagan, ample space is required for fun. You can always choose banquets which can accommodate your guests easily. There are wedding banquets and marriage halls for different types of gathering. Some venues have a capacity of serving more than 600 guests. So, Regardless of the size of the gathering, a suitable banquet can be arranged. However, the selection priority should be a picturesque backdrop, food, and accommodation.
• Additional Services: Additional services include valet parking, Wedding DJ, Tattoo Artists, Dancers, Bridal Makeup and more. Leading Banquet chains have online specialists who take care of additional service bookings. So, utilize their resourceful networks to get more facilities.
• Safety Measures: When a lot of people are involved in a chaotic environment, things can go wrong. To keep the mishaps at bay, there are venues with appropriate safety measures. So, you can be at peace of mind. First aid, fire safety, and emergency services are always on the standby. Emergency power backup in case of unwanted power cuts is an additional facility. CCTV cameras are also allocated in the function zone for venue safety.

7. Check for backup plans:

Backup plans make an event better even under irregularities. The biggest problems which arise during a wedding event is the unexpected rise in the number of guests. Wedding specialists counter all big or small challenges. Arrangements include room for backup facilities. Arranging extra food, extra parking space or even additional rooms is never a challenge.

Customization services are also available. Sometimes couples want a personal touch in their wedding. The team designs wedding themes for those who have exquisite tastes.

8. Book it well in advance

Last-minute bookings may lead to compromises. Once you have your wedding date, go ahead with pre-bookings. The availability of banquet halls may vary depending upon the peak season demand.

To be on track, six-month prior booking is recommended. You might end up losing great deals. Those who are looking for top-notch service should not wait. Sought out wedding days called ‘lagan’ are always expensive.  If booked in advance you’ll be able to save a lot.

9. Know your guest’s profile

Transportation, and stay have always been a matter of chaos. It is essential to know your guest’s profiles. If it is a local gathering, guest uses their conveyance. All they will need is a ‘safe parking space.’ For outstation guests, pick and drop facility is a must.

Make a rough count of locals and outstation attendees. Handover the list to the specialist. And yes, don’t hesitate to take their favour. Banquets and wedding halls have facilities for transportation, parking, and accommodations for guests. Guests can also utilize the shuttle facility to reach venue on-time.

With a clear guest profile, the staff will go the extra mile for making travel related logistics.

So, forget the hassle!

10. Availability of the services

Looking for Bridal makeup, Mehndi, Ceremonial rites?

Brides can avail the best makeup and tattoo artist services which are attached to wedding venues. The professional photographer can be hired to capture candid moments. “Entertainment” adds more zeal to the event.

So, why not arrange a folk dance or a puppet show?

Wow your guests by enhancing the entertainment quotient with these inclusions;

• Photo Booth: Photo Booths are trending these days. Use photo props, so the photographer gets some amazing shots. Ask your guests to join and enthral them with fun activities.
• Magic show: Magicians can impress the guests with certain card tricks.
• Folk Dancers: Rajasthani folk dancers performing ghoomar are popular these days. A Rajasthani wedding theme with folk dancers performance is treated to watch.
• Bhangra: Bhangra dance form is a typical wedding thing. Groom’s friend can join the troop matching their steps with artists.
• Tattoo Artist: Just like henna, Tattoos are cool funky elements of events. Small girls and bride’s friends love to have tattoo designs on their hands.
• Cocktail Corner: Wedding is evening celebrations. Guests love to chill and groove on the music beats with some cocktail shots. A special dedicated cocktail corner will just solve the purpose.

Leading Banquet halls make sure that your guests remain captivated with full-on entertainment. Ask the specialists for customizing wedding packages which include entertainment features. Put a tick on the ideas and start following it to get the best one. So start getting ready and list the best Hall before it is too late!

Book Banquet Halls

OR
Give us a Missed Call
  08750287502

The months leading up to your wedding are often stressful ones. Right from finding the best wedding halls in Delhi to selecting the best bridal trousseau, the bride goes through a lot of stress. From planning to the pressure, to look stunning in every photo – there’s a lot of anxiety going around as well. And the bride is always supposed to look beautiful, glowing and radiant at all times. Well, not many know this, other than beauty products, it is the food you eat which can help you achieve the glowing skin. Food serves two important purposes: to nourish and provide us with energy and to bring us pleasure.

Before you begin to plan your pre-wedding prep, you must give up all the fizzy drinks and fried stuff, sugary treats that you love secretly indulging in and focus on the right foods in your diet.

As they say, what you eat is what you become, here’s the perfect bridal diet chart for glowing skin that can help you to stay in shape and get that natural glow on your wedding day. Add these healthy foods to your diet:

• Eat Raw Veggies

Having Raw Vegetables like carrots, beetroot, cucumber and Indian gooseberries will provide nourishment to your skin and make them rosy pink. Have these veggies raw as a salad or blend them together to make a smoothie and gulp it down directly. You cannot even begin to imagine the benefits it will provide to your skin.

• Green Tea

Green tea comes with multiple health benefits. Not only does it boost metabolism and aid in weight loss, green tea also has powerful antioxidants that fight premature ageing. These antioxidants nullify the damage caused by the sun to a great extent, if not entirely. Further, it aids in skin rejuvenation and regeneration, because of that, your pimple scars, or acne marks, or blemishes have a better chance of healing quickly. Green tea has anti-inflammatory properties which help keep pimples and acne at bay, and because it aids in flushing out toxins, the texture and complexion of your skin will improve. It is also one of the best Anti-Anxiety foods being in use these days.

• Consume Nuts

Nuts are the powerhouse of fibre, antioxidants, healthy fat, calcium and vitamins and minerals, like vitamin A, C, E, zinc and copper, and many extraordinary benefits. Nuts naturally give a boost to healthy collagen, which in turn keeps your skin healthy and youthful. This nutrient-rich food is one of a must to be included in your pre-wedding bridal tips for glowing skin. Eat Nuts every day to get that ultimate glow on your face, but make sure not to binge on them because they are high in fat and the last thing a bride-to-be would want, is to develop a paunch right before her wedding.

• Papaya

If you check what goes into your skin cream, you will often find papaya to be an active ingredient. That is because this fruit contains enzymes like chymopapain and papain that come with multiple skin benefits. Chymopapain helps soothe skin inflammation while papain aids in fading of scars and blemishes. To improve your skin clarity to a great extent, apply mashed papaya on your face as a mask. Because it contains many other essential vitamins and minerals, having papaya as a fruit is really the best option for you.

• Drink Water

For a bride-to-be, it’s important to keep yourself hydrated all the time, especially during summers as they suck a lot out of your body. Drink around 3 to 4 litres of water every day. Water flushes out the toxins out of your body and clears out acne, marks, and blemishes from your face, turning your skin bouncy and lissome. Apart from making your skin healthy and glowing, water has other health benefits as well.

• Turmeric

It is known to enhance the complexion and provide a golden glow to the skin. It also has anti-inflammatory properties which protect the skin from damage by free radicals and is one of the best bridal beauty tips for glowing skin. In India, we typically use the powdered variety of turmeric, which will work just fine, although turmeric root is always better. You can add turmeric to your diet in several ways – you can add a pinch to your smoothie, scrambled eggs, or to any other food you eat. Alternatively, you could also apply turmeric externally after mixing it with yoghurt.

• Yoghurt

Yoghurt is deemed as a natural anti-aging food. It aids in removing wrinkles, fades sunburn and combats acne. Most importantly, it helps to get rid of dark circles and make your beautiful luscious eyes pop. A cup of yoghurt a day keeps the skin clear. Even the lactose intolerant people can feast on yoghurt as it contains the acid which is useful for the overall well-being of the skin.

• Almond

Rich in Vitamin E, almonds are another natural ingredient that has been used for beauty treatments since forever. Vitamin E promotes cell regeneration and therefore aids in the healing of wounds, lightening of scars, acne, blemishes, and improves the skin texture in general. It also helps in building skin’s defence against sun damage. Further, almond oil can help remove dark circles when applied externally. You can add a handful of almonds to your diet by mixing it with your food or smoothies or having soaked almonds

• Delicious Dark Chocolates

Don’t rub your eyes in shock. Yes! You read it right. Who would have thought that caring for skin can be fun. A major portion of Dark chocolates contains Cocoa that has antioxidants and a substance called flavonoids that help in diminishing stress hormones, which entails less collagen breakdown, and lesser wrinkles.

• Spinach

This leafy green vegetable well known for its high iron content can also help you improve your skin texture. Iron, which is essential to the production and circulation of haemoglobin, makes sure that optimum levels of red blood cells are maintained in the body. This, in turn, ensures that there is always enough flow of oxygen in your system. This prevents your skin from looking pale and good circulation of blood will give you a healthy rosy glow.

• Avocado

While most fruits are high in carbohydrates and sugar, avocado, also known as butter fruit is enriched with healthy fats. The monounsaturated fats present in avocado will keep your skin soft and supple, and will also help your body absorb the fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E and K. You can consume avocado as a whole fruit, in the form of juice or in salads. A well-known preparation using avocado is guacamole and is pretty simple to make at home.

• Tomato

Tomatoes contain a phytochemical, or plant chemical called Lycopene. It is a pigment belonging to the carotene and the carotenoid group that gives a tomato its bright red colour. For you, lycopene can spike collagen production which will keep your skin supple, toned, and youthful. Collagen is a protein that forms the main texture and structure of your skin. It also helps to delay the ageing process, and most anti-aging treatments involve methods that increase collagen levels in your body. Tomatoes also contain antioxidants which speed up the cell renewal process of your skin leaving it healthy and glowing.

• Flaxseed Oil

One of the best bridal tips for glowing skin is using flaxseed oil. Flaxseed is a very rich source of healthy omega 3 fatty acids. A healthy dose of omega 3 fatty acids every day will keep your skin well hydrated and glowing. It also reduces fine lines and prevents new ones from forming. Omega 3 fatty acids also improve your body’s ability to heal scars and spots. Grind them and mix them in your food or you could also buy flaxseed oil and use it to cook your meal. Ground flaxseed will also add the necessary fibre to your diet.

• Eggs

You’ll be surprised to know that the amount of cholesterol contained in one egg is reasonably less when compared to other sources of saturated fats such as red meat. Moreover, the benefits that a whole egg brings with it are more, than it compensates for the traces of cholesterol, it contains. Among these benefits, one is that egg yolks contain Biotin or Vitamin B7 which plays a major role in the health of your skin, nails and hair. Also known as the “beauty vitamin”, biotin keeps skin free from rashes, acne and other breakouts and strengthens nails and hair.

• Some other bridal beauty tips for glowing skin

Exercise daily for at least an hour to improve blood flow to the skin. Use correct sun protection for your skin type after consulting a skin specialist. Yoga and breathing exercises can help to reduce stress levels. Do not touch or prick pimples or acne. Wash your face twice daily to prevent oil clogging in the pores. Do not touch or prick pimples or acne. Wash your face twice daily to prevent oil clogging in the pores.

Bridal Diet chart for Glowing Skin

• Start your day with a glass of lukewarm water mixed with lemon juice. You can also drink a cup of green tea or mix some crushed mint for a unique flavour in your lemon water.
• Have fruit or home-made vegetable soup (no packet soups) whenever you feel hungry
• Include pulses or grilled fish, one piece of chicken, low-fat probiotic curd, salad and green vegetables and wholegrain cereals, to make your lunch or dinner healthy.
• Containing Omega, fatty acids, which makes our hair and skin shiny and healthier, make sure you consume walnuts on daily basis.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking.

Ladies, stick strictly to this pre-bridal diet and follow the bridal beauty tips for glowing skin and don’t make compromises on your food choices if you pine for an ultimate glow on your skin on your big day. The countdown is on as you are getting hitched. For your marriage, dressings, ornaments and accessories must not be the only area of concern but you also need to bring some remarkable changes in your appearance.

These tips, simple though they may seem, are fantastic suggestions for staying sane during wedding season. And as the elegant Audrey Hepburn once said, “happy girls are the prettiest girls.”

Riding horses to your wedding – so behind-the-times and overdone, it’s time to get creative gentlemen, Right? Innovation! Creativity! Wedding! So let’s get started! It’s your big day! You may be a shy soul, you may be a bookworm or an outright introvert – but let’s face it, all of us want that grand wedding that no one has ever seen before. Well, the start of a grand wedding is at the entrance itself! Leave the endless search of wedding halls to the family and instead get into planning that dhamakedaar entry with your groom and wedding planner!

This moment should be the most memorable memory as it should be remembered by your guests as well. Its high time when the couple used to come one after the other, the couple should enter together with the jaw-dropping amazing entry. It’s that moment when the traditional ceremonies and rituals end and the real fun begins. It only makes sense to make it a spectacle that no one will forget as the bride and groom walk into the reception area hand-in-hand.  From the passé ‘phoolon ki chaadar’ to the over the top and done to death hydraulic entries, we have seen it all.

Are you ready to make your wedding entry like a show stopper? If yes then just scroll down to the options and explore and make your wedding entrance the best one!

So here are some of the amazing entries which you can really try on your wedding and make it a unforgettable moment:

1. Lighten Up

This one is definitely out-of-the-box and that means, glowing fairy lights and fun lighting ideas. The wedding sure has all the kids running about and playing under the fairy lights.

So why not the bride and the groom? Let them both be covered with sparkling fairy lights over a flowing fabric amidst a dark entrance and as they get lost in the darkness of the skies and their own deep love, they will look like two angels walking the path of love. No one will ever forget the look on the faces of your guests and this one will surely make for great photographs. The other thing you can use is the sparklers light on the pathway and when they enter, the pathway will lit-up like crackers. It will be an amazing experience and the guests will be amazed.

2. Segway – The Karan Grover style

Riding a ghodi or an elephant is oh so passé. Why not try something new and quirky to make jaws drop at your wedding venue? Take inspiration from actor Karan Singh Grover who married the sultry actress Bipasha Basu in style. The handsome hunk ditched the traditional haathi-ghoda style and made a grand entry to the venue on a Segway. And yeah, this style is not just restricted to the entry of the groom; if you are cool bride do give this dashing entry a shot and the couple can make a splashing entry together.

3. Make a Heavenly Entry

If money is not one of your major concerns, you can finally fulfil your Bollywood dreams by deciding to make an impressive starry style entry. Just like the way celebs do it at award functions – enter your wedding venue hanging from cranes, cables etc, or simply rent out a chopper and make everyone’s jaw drop as you make that impressive and rocking entry. As you land into the venue, you sure will make news with that oomph factor you just added!

4. Be a Jai-Veeru

If you are a die-hard Sholay fan, you definitely should go ahead with this style of entry. Ride to your wedding with your bride for an adventurous couple entry after you rent out a vintage scooter with a sidecar and decorate it with flowers.  Not so long ago, Actress Gul Panag adopted the same style and made a cute entry with her hubby at her wedding. Giving you one beautiful memory to cherish forever this ride will not burn a huge hole in your pocket. Of course, don’t try this for a monsoon wedding.

5. Bollywood style!

Well, the name says it all. An auto rickshaw decked in genda Phool (marigold) and Bollywood posters is just what you need to make that typical a hero and heroine entry just out of a Bollywood film.

A badass bride with a gun and her man driving her into the venue will have everyone laugh it up with the couple. Now, this is something we hope to get to see more often! We are loving every bit of this couple entry!

6. Piece of Jugglery

Holy Cow! Where’s the bride? The anxious guests are about to declare the bride’s been missing when she appears in a glass cabinet on stage decked up in wedding attire amidst the billowing smoke holding a magical wand and chanting a magic spell which makes her husband-to-be emerge from a giant lotus! Countless of such stupendous magic tricks are a glamour quotient for the couple and a visual delight for the guests.

7. One Step at a Time

Indian weddings are tagged as ‘fun unlimited’. Whether you can shake a leg or not, here you can freely express and rejoice in your family’s or friend’s wedding processions. You and your guests can shake a leg to the beats of dhols. From wedding songs to your favourite tunes, it’s amusing to watch your friends perform live not only increases the charm of your wedding but also euphoria for the couple.

8. Dance, dance and dance

This is one of the jubilant Indian wedding bride and groom entry ideas and is a splendid way of keeping the guests happy. Right from the entrance to the mandap the bride and the groom will dance their way out with this one. You can even encourage your close friends and family members to participate in your entry dance.

9. Choose Elephant, Horse or Camel

Choose any of these animals, decorate them and use them for your special entry. It need not be an elephant or a horse only. If you are crazy and flexible enough, you can even choose donkey or other animals which will escort you and your fiancé to the wedding reception. Make sure the Animal welfare association doesn’t have a problem with the proceedings!

10. Flash Mob

You can arrange for a flash mob and if you want to be a part of it, you can practice the dance moves well in advance. You can have the flash mob and follow their dance moves when you enter the hall. Not only is it the best way to enter the hall by surprising and entertaining your guests who are eagerly waiting for your arrival but also thrilling for the couple at the same time. Ensure that you practice it well so that there are no confusions on the day of the performance.

11. Music, drums and band

It can be the most exciting entry as a couple when you enter the wedding reception hall with loud music and band.

It grabs the attention of the audience and you can feel the cynosure around you! Make sure you don’t feel sick because of the noise. Enjoy the dramatic way of entering the reception hall with your partner.

12. Horse Carriages

Well, we all want to feel like royalty, even if it is for a day. Rent out a few horses and live it up or get your decorator to get a metal carriage and decorate it with flowers! Have some cutesy moments and enjoy in the glory of the beautiful and royal carriage as you make that dashing couple entry. This one’s as creative as it can get, so go wild!

13. A Hoverboard Entry

Try zooming in at your wedding on a Hoverboard if you are good with the balancing act and all. Hoverboards are really a trend these days and are catching up with the wedding season. Do mind your ghagra though or even the long train of your dress if you are a bindaas bride trying to give this one shot with your hubby.

14. Vintage Vehicle or Tractor

Get creative and get hold of some flowers and other fancy decors as you choose your dream vehicle – a tractor, a scooter or any vintage vehicle for this purpose. Enter the reception hall using the vehicle as a couple.

When the bride or groom drive the vehicle together, it becomes so much fun and a pleasant memory for everyone. Practice it well in advance and make sure you know the condition of the vehicle well enough before you do this! Leave no room for goof-ups!

15. ATV Style

This one’s really for those who aren’t faint-hearted. To bring out that adventurist in you, make that powerful entry as a couple on an ATV. The ATV adds a luxe but adventurous vibe and a beach wedding more than support that. We love the floral decor with the ATV – you could really up to the ante with this one!

So it’s really important that you make your wedding’s moments the best one. Every moment should be amazing because it’s happening for the first time and you need to make it memorable so that your guests also can’t forget the moments. You yourself should be rejoiced remembering the time.

Just go ahead and make your wedding entry the best and memorable one!

Shirdi is considered as one of the holiest cities in India. Situated in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra, it is renowned as the birthplace of the 19th-century saint, Sri Sai Baba, and has a world-renowned temple dedicated to him. Apart from this supreme temple, the city is home to many other divine temples as well. Plan a visit to Shirdi and let its spiritual atmosphere calm your spirits. Visit its age-old temples and feel the divine vibes around. Here is a list of the top 10 temples you can visit in Shirdi.

Find Best Hotels In  Shirdi

Top 10 temples you can visit in Shirdi

1. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
2. Dwarka Mai Mosque
3. Gurusthan
4. Shani Shingnapur
5. Khandoba Mandir
6. Sai Heritage Village
7. Baba Chavadi
8. Maruti Mandir
9. Abdul Baba Cottage
10. Shri Ganesh Temple

1. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple

One of the major landmarks of Shirdi, the Sai Baba Temple is visited by an average 25,000 pilgrims a day. It houses an idol of Sai Baba, which seems to be his sheer personification. Revered by the both Hindus and Muslims, the Sai Baba Temple has its gates open to devotees at all times of the day. From the Italian marble to the old stone bricks, the interior of the temple is worth a sight.

Location: Tal. Rahata Dist. Ahmednagar, Shirdi, Maharashtra

Timings: 4:00 am to 11:00 pm. Daily Aarti is held at 4:30 am, 12:00 pm and 10:30 pm

2. Dwarka Mai Mosque

Dwarka Mai is considered to be one of the holiest places in Shirdi, as Sri Sai Baba is said to have spent a significant amount of time here. It is the only mosque in the world that has houses a temple (dedicated to Sai Baba). The aura of the temple attracts devotes from near and far in large numbers to visit the place and pay their respects to the saint.

Location: Pimpalwadi Road, Rahata, Dist. Ahmednagar, Shirdi, Maharashtra

Timings: 5:30 am to 9:45 pm

3. Gurusthan

A small shrine with a Shivalingam placed in front of Sai Baba’s portrait, Gurusthan is the place where the 16-year-old Sai Baba was first found sitting under a neem tree. Devoted followers of Sai Baba believe that burning incense sticks on the spot heals all types of their illnesses.

Location: Manmad State Highway No.10, Shirdi Town, Ahmednagar, Shirdi

Timings: 5:00 am to 10:00 pm

4. Shani Shingnapur

One of the many temples that make Shirdi a pilgrimage site, the Shani Shingnapur Mandir is an open-air temple that consists of a five and a half feet high idol of Lord Shani that has been carved out of black stone. The locals have such strong belief in the temple deity, that there is no door in the houses around. They believe that their Lord will protect them against all the odds.

Location: Sonai, Nevasa, Ahmednagar, Shingnapur

Timings: The temple remains open at all times.

5. Khandoba Mandir

Dedicated to Khandoba, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, the Khandoba Temple attracts many travellers with its serene ambience. The calm temple is well-maintained and quite famous amongst devotees of Sai Baba. The folklore states that Sai Baba wanted to make this temple his residing quarters but was not allowed into the premises as Mahalsapati.

Location: Main Road, Near Shri Sainath Hospital, Shirdi

Timings: 5:00 am to 10:00 pm

6. Sai Heritage Village

One of the best sightseeing places in Shirdi, the Sai Heritage Village doubles up as a theme park apart from being a pilgrimage site. The village, established in the year 2014, is home to a number of statues that depict the vital events of Sri Sai Baba’s life.

Location: Maharashtra State Highway 10, Taluk Rahata, Dist. Ahmednagar, Shirdi, Maharashtra

Timings: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm

7. Baba Chavadi

A huge procession of pilgrims along with palkis following the idol of Sai Baba starts from Baba Chavdi every alternate night to commemorate his memories. The place, situated close to Dwarka Mai, is where Sai Baba slept when he was staying at the mosque. It is filled with a peaceful aura that pulls devotees towards it.

Location: Mauli Nagar, Shirdi, Maharashtra

Timings: The temple remains open at all times.

8. Maruti Mandir

Considered as one of the oldest temples in Shirdi, the Maruti Mandir pays homage to Lord Hanuman. Sai Baba’s palki always stops at the Hanuman Mandir allowing pilgrims to worship both the deities together.

Lacation: Mauli Nagar, Shirdi, Maharashtra

Timings: 7:00 am to 10:00 pm

9. Abdul Baba Cottage

A fascinating temple, the Abdul Baba Cottage is the resting place of Abdul Baba, who was an ardent follower of Sri Sai Baba. His tombstone is situated inside the tranquil Samadhi Mandir in the compound.

Location: Opposite Chavadi, Shirdi

Timings: 4:00 am to 11:00 pm

10. Shri Ganesh Temple

Highly revered by the worshippers, the Ganesh temple is located in the temple complex of Shirdi. According to the legend, Sai Baba always stopped to pay homage to Lord Ganesh while on his way to Lendi Baug.

Location: Sonai | Nevasa, Ahmednagar, Shingnapur

Timings: The temple remains open at all times.

Where to Stay:

There are a number of affordable stay options in Shirdi mostly because it is a temple town and people come from far and wide to visit the temples in Shirdi. The pilgrims here come from all strata of society, which is why there are a number of budget options here to choose from which are fitted with all the basic amenities. The demand for the rooms is of course high when there are festivities held in the temples. You can book room conveniently through the Oyo app and you can choose to stay close to the temples, or to the bus terminus, or choose rooms according to the budget. Most of the hotels here serve vegetarian food though some sell non vegetarian food items as well.

How to Reach:

Pilgrims come from all over the country to visit the temples of Shirdi.

If you are going to visit Shirdi from out of Maharashtra, then the nearest airport is the Aurangabad Airport which is 130 km away. You can easily get cabs to your location from here or alternately, arrange for transport from the hotel.

If you are traveling by bus, then the Maharashtra state transport corporation buses will take you to this revered city. You can get frequent buses from Nasik, Bombay, Pune, Aurangabad and Kopargaon to Shirdi. There are also luxury buses to be availed.

If you are traveling by train, then you must book your tickets for the Kopargaon railway station, which is about 16 km away. From there you will easily get buses and cabs to take you to Shirdi.

What to Eat:

Shirdi is a holy town so the food available here is simple but is cooked with a lot of love. Almost all the items here are vegetarian. You can get rice and roti, with a number of vegetables. There are also some cafes and restaurants here recently opened for tourists and they sell pizzas and ice creams of all sort. The Prasad from the temples are most eagerly awaited and some of it can be bought from the temple stalls as well. Fresh fruits are also available here and the fruit juices are served in quite a few eateries.

What to Shop:

As Shirdi is a temple town, the shops here also mostly sell effigies of Sai Baba and that of other gods and goddesses which the pilgrims take back with them with a lot of reverence. The idols are made from polished wood, brass, clay or porcelain. There are also religious books and scriptures to be bought, both written in vernacular and also translated in other languages. There are alter cloths, incense sticks, dry fruits and sweets to be got here as well. There are a number of items that one can get here for one’s puja room. The entire region has a very holy air about it and everyone likes to take back some of it with them with the things they buy here.

Planning a pilgrimage tour to Shirdi? Get great deals on hotel bookings with OYO. Enjoy the best of comfort while you set out on a journey to embrace serenity and calmness.

An eclectic mix of the old-world charm with a modern touch, Chennai offers the varying shades of traditional culture and tastes that make it a favourite tourist spot. Apart from its beaches and eateries, the city is also a shopping hub with various streets that satiate your need for budget buys.

Let’s take a look at some of these shopping centres that you can explore when you are in Chennai.

1. Pondy Bazaar

One of the most famous shopping streets in the city, Pondy Bazaar boasts of a wide array of street shops selling trendy accessories, clothes and footwear. Apart from the delightful snacks that are served along the street, you can also find gadgets such as mobile phones in the stores that line the street.

Best buy: Clothes, shoes and mobile phones

2. T. Nagar

Thyagaraya Nagar, better known as T. Nagar is the most sought-after shopping destination in Chennai. The area is full of saree stores that sell the indigenous designs of the city along with huge jewellery stores that offer a wide range of beautiful gold ornaments.

Best buy: Traditional sarees and gold jewellery

3. Burma Bazaar

Just near the Central Railway Station is the Burma Bazaar. A huge hub for electronic goods, the place has many stores that sell imported electronic devices such as handsets, music players, television sets as well as movie DVDs. If you are lucky, you can even get yourself an imported doll in this exclusive bazaar.

Best buy: Television sets and DVDs

4. Phoenix Market City

Possibly one of the biggest malls in the city, the Phoenix Mall is home to numerous international brands that cater to the fashion needs of youngsters. The mall also has restaurants and gaming arcades where families can enjoy some quality time together during weekends and holidays.

Best buy: Branded clothes

5. Sowcarpet

A small Rajasthani hub in Chennai, Sowcarpet is a narrow, winding lane with small shops that are full to the brim with vibrantly coloured merchandise. You can find glittering lehengas and sarees as well as fashionable accessories to go along with them. There are stores that sell kurtis and salwar suit materials in a wide variety.

Best buy: Colourful bangles

6. Cotton Street

If you are looking for some budget buys in Chennai, make sure you make a trip to Cotton Street. The modest street has hawker stalls that sell the beautiful cotton fabric at thirty rupees a meter. You can get dupattas and cotton kurtas as well as sarees in this place without burning a hole in your pocket.

Best buy: Cotton fabric for your custom designs

7. George Town

If you want to experience the authentic taste of Chennai, book your stay at hotel rooms nearby and visit the streets of George Town. One of the oldest areas of the city, the place is full of market lanes that shine brightly with vivid colours and make sure you can have a wonderful time picking up local stuff that will help you stock up on some of the best buys.

Best buy: Sarees

8. Ritchie Street

A favourite among locals, Ritchie streets is a labyrinth of lanes comprising a large number of shops that sell electronic goods. All these devices can be bought at half their actual price, however, it is best to visit the shops with locals for better bargains.

Best buy: Electronics

9. Anna Nagar

A prime residential area in Chennai, Anna Nagar is also a major shopping hub. It is the centre of many big brands that sell the latest fashion. These stores started developing after the World Trade Fair boom and are more popular amongst the young crowd, offering them a space to enjoy some recreational time.

Best buy: Branded merchandise

10. Panagal Park

Snugly situated near Usman Nagar, Panagal Park is most renowned for selling sarees and jewellery. Bags and handicrafts are also thrown into the mix. The green pastures of Panagal Park that is quite close to the market pull in many tourists who wish to enjoy delightful shopping time.

Best buy: Jewellery and colorful bags

11. Nungambakkam:

This is more of a pricey shopping area in Chennai and the stores here have hefty price tags on their products. However, this is also the place to be in if you like all this fancy and stylish. From branded products to unique boutiques, this region has it all. Many celebrities come here to shop as well.

Best Buy: Branded clothes and handmade items.

12. Kottivakkam:

When it comes to shopping, you have to have some good food in between and Kottivakkam offers you both. The streets of this region are lined with quaint shops that sell everything from clothes to footwear but it is the food joints in between that really steal the show. Having a plate of street food right after you have made a good bargain is really great.

Best Buy: Food and local clothes

13. Nalli:

A center completely dedicated to high quality silk and other premium fabrics, Nalli is the market to go to if you are looking for premium cloth and fabrics. The huge store has everything from sarees to men’s clothing and the choice of fabrics one gets here is overwhelming. Also the fact that the store was established in 1928 and is still among one of the most well known stores in the state speak volumes about the store.

Best buy: Sarees and silk kurtas for men.

14. Parry’s Corner:

A wholesale market in the city that sells almost everything under one roof, Parry’s Corner is the go to destination for all kinds of household shopping. From household knickknacks to steel utensils, from toys to handmade dress materials, name it, and you are sure to find it in this massive market.

Best buy: Frankly, everything!

15. Naturally Auroville:

While this is one of the pricier shops in Chennai, what makes it special is that the products available here are made in Auroville in Pondicherry, and are hence handmade and almost completely organic. There are candles, carpets, cushions and clocks made from wood and a number of other such items.

Best buy: Candles and carpets.

16. Koyambedu Vegetable market:

You should head for this vegetable market in Koyambedu if you want to make something fresh and enticing for your family. The market will always give you fresh produce to choose from and has a large number of vendors gathering here every day from various suburbs around Chennai with their produce of fruits, vegetables and fresh flowers.

Best buy: fresh vegetables and flowers

17. Kapaleeshwarar Temple Eat Street:

Well, if it is food- shopping you are interested in, then you have to head to Kapaleeshwarar Temple Street. The alleys here are lined with street food shops of every kind, from dosa, uttappam, idli, vada, sambhar, rice, chutneys, appam and what not. The street is visited regularly by office goers who want to take a quick bite.

Best buy: Dosa and rose milk

18. Kasimedu Fish market:

It is hard to find a non vegetarian food platter in Chennai that does not contain fish and the Kasimedu fish market is the best place to find the day’s fresh catch. Not only can one get a large number of fish, but prawns, crabs, scallops and squids are also available here. Be sure to come early to pick up the best of the lot.

Best buy: Fish and crabs

19. Spencer Plaza:

A sprawling shopping mall, the Spencer Plaza will help you find all branded goods under a roof. From premium American brands selling jeans to Indian wear, you will find everything here. Catch a movie at the multiplex, hop into a coffee shop and shop till you drop, all under one roof.

Best buy: Almost everything

20. Express Avenue:

Another major shopping mall in the city, this destination is not just known for the clothes and other standard items available in a shopping mall, but also for its dedicated gaming section. The PIX 5D movie section and the Kid’s Play zone are almost always full where parents often drop their kids till they complete their necessary shopping.

Best buy: entertainment section.

Shopping in Chennai will be a real pleasure if you can take out some time and come here to shop while you are in the city.

All set to explore the shopping delights that Chennai has to offer? Find the perfect hotel in Chennai near these hubs and make the most of your Chennai trip. Choose from the best hotel booking site and opt for the online room booking at OYO.

P.s. You might like these related resources:

• The best time to visit Chennai and the best places to make your visit worthwhile
• Historical Places In and Near Chennai That You Can’t Afford To Miss Out On
• The top places to visit in Chennai for a great holiday

Bridal outfits! Well, of course, this is the dress of the hour when your wedding is getting nearer. But come out of the haze of wedding planning where you are just immersed in booking wedding venues in Pune, calling caterers from Delhi, bringing in bridal makeup artist from Mumbai or buying your saree from Chennai.  Pheww…that’s a lot to think about.

But, in this scramble do not forget about your bridesmaids and how you are going to dress them up for your wedding. The concept of bridesmaid is gaining popularity in Indian weddings these days.

As a bridesmaid, you have the role to stay close to the bride and help her out with all her personal wedding preparation for the day. But, in the midst of all this keep it in mind that you are going to share a tiny bit of spotlight while you are walking along with her. So, in a way your dress matters too. Choosing a perfect bridesmaid dress is not easy. You need a lot to think about the colour, style and pattern of the dress before picking “the one”.

Go ahead and grab some inspiration from these below-mentioned bridesmaid dresses for your wedding. Some sexy, some quirky but some traditional as well!

• White Sexy Gowns

It’s never too late to switch to western ones actually, it’s amazing swap to try something new and peculiar. As in Indian wedding always we have to wear Indian traditional attire, we will be talking on that as well but choose the white sexy gowns. Which will definitely make your look appealing and amazing? White always have a different texture and look and it gives you a really fresh feeling.

• Embossed Lehenga

If  yours is a red lehenga, then letting your bridesmaid wear a white one would be a great idea. Bridesmaid Dresses in India have taken a creative meaning. Now it’s no more about the bright colours. Girls today are open to lighter, subtle and pastel shades. Just design each of their dresses differently but keep the colour code same to preserve the symmetry in their dresses. It would look enchanting enough when your bridesmaids are following you in an ethereal view behind your bright fiery lehenga.

• Pretty Pink Georgette Saree

When you are wearing a white or beige lehenga for your wedding then pairing it up with a pink georgette saree would just look drop dead gorgeous. Just pick a lighter yet luminous colour of pink with a glittery border or pallu to make the picture all the more enticing.

• Go Green

Play with colours and choose green! A bright yet an awesome shade, it heightens up the liveliness of the wedding to another notch. If your own bridal dress is sporting some green colour within it, then this would be a perfect occasion to showcase the green colour on your bridesmaids. Just choose whatever dress you want. A lehenga, Anarkali, saree or churidar would look equally great when worn with proper accessories. You may pick an olive colour, sea green, apple green or emerald as per your choice.

• Pink Pyjamas

After saree pyjamas, it is a really drastic change but yet amazing. You can make your bridesmaid photo amazing with wearing pyjamas and giving it a fun moment in your wedding. Definitely, they will change afterwards but the moments which will be captured or you can always do the pyjama party for that will be the next level thing.

• Scintillating Silver Dresses

Get a little sparkle into your bridesmaids’ dresses. With yours being a wine or maroon lehenga and your bridesmaids’ dresses being in the combination of silver, it would definitely build an intriguing view for the guests in the wedding. Let them sport some ethnic pieces of jewellery in combination with their dresses and you are sure to get the look that you have been longing for.

• White & Red South Indian Saree!

After the saree, dhoti, its time to go regional, the south Indian sarees are literally amazing and if you are wearing it with a style, it will definitely give a gorgeous look. Remember the Alia Bhatt saree in the movie 2States just like that it will make your body look good and as well as the personality. It will brighten up your natural look instantly.

• Hip n Happy Yellow

You cannot deny that yellow could be a splendid choice to be picked among the thousands of Indian bridesmaid dresses. A very cheerful shade in itself, it will definitely complement your bridal dress. Just create a design that is not too bright and goes well with the complexion of your bridesmaid which is the foremost reason of concern among the girls. Choose sunflower yellow, it goes well with every kind of skin tone and enhances the way any girl dresses up.

• Sequined Shararas

This attire always capture the attention because of it’s beauty and the jewellery which are paired with it especially, the Pashas. Sequined Shararas  will really go with the whole bridesmaid thing. The outfit should light not too heavy so that you can easily carry it out. Experiment the best pastel colours with it to look more and more amazing and vibrant.

• The Picture Perfect Pastels

Somehow among the bright ones, pastels have taken a front seat in these 21st-century weddings. The baby blues, baby pink, vanilla shades, grey-blue, delicate orange with a hint of yellow, mauve are some of the shades that come under this category. If your bridesmaids are not partial to bright colours, then you may suggest them these colour pallets.  A lehenga, Anarkali, salwar kameez, ethnic gown and saree, all these would look excellent with these colour shades.

•  Dhotis Style!

Yes, why not try dhotis, it will give a unique look and presence and the outfit will be different to wear. Trying something fresh and quirky is not a bad thing. So try the dhotis and give your personality a different look and make the most memorable memories in that outfit because in many situations out speak a lot.

• Saree Synchronization

If you could not spend much of your time dwelling on the design and style of your bridesmaid dresses, then it would be better to give them free reign with their choice of colour but keep the type identical. Like if you want to go with silk, then get all the dresses say saree or lehenga in silk regardless of the colour. It would not look weird at all. Rather it would be much more alluring when you will see the same variation among their colours.

• Keep the Colours in the Same Palette

Another way to dress up your bridesmaids in the most captivating of ways is by using colours that belong to the same family. If blue is what you have chosen to be your bridesmaid dress, then go through the colours under it. Light blue, sky blue, navy blue, royal blue, cornflower blue etc. are some of the colours that come with it. The same goes with any other colour. You just need to be very cautious about the lehenga colour combinations.

• Combo of Wine, Beige & White Sarees

It’s not just the bride who can sport a red lehenga. Even the Indian bridesmaids are given that liberty these days. If your bridal dress is among the lighter tones like a beige, off-white, powder blue etc. then sporting a red, beige or white coloured saree would be a nice choice for the bridesmaids.

• Pick a Colour From Your Dress

Now, this would be creative enough. Choose your dress and then pick the colour for them that matches a part of yours. So, pick yours wisely and give equal consideration while choosing theirs. This contrasting combination would look just fabulous in every picture of your wedding.

Lucknow’s love for the finer things is legendary. From architecture to literature and music to culture, the city always has the best to offer. Here we will explore what lies on the platter for those who want to delve into its famous food culture. Following are the top ten street snacks of Lucknow.

• Tunday Kababs – Lucknow’s Favourite Treat

A trip into history is required as you approach the famous Tunday Kabab stalls. Located in the old town, the aura of the Awadhi era still prevails here. The kababs taste of rich history—the spices that give them their unique texture and flavour have been a secret guarded for generations.

• A Veggie Delight

Why should only the non-vegetarians have all the fun? Veg kababs combined with hearty paranthas make for a perfect evening snack as well as for a hearty breakfast. You can find these lip-smacking delicacies everywhere in the city. (Alambagh and Charbagh are good places to explore).

• The Office Break Combo

It can be a quick breakfast for the on-the-go generation or a side snack on a lazy weekday afternoon. One cup of sweet chai, a buttered bun and a delicious samosa make a simple yet yummy combination. Enjoy this trio of treats that complement the busy life of a Lucknow resident in almost every place. (They say Hazratganj’s Sharma tea corner is a good choice).

• Pav Bhaji

Hazratganj is the venue for our next entrant on the list. Pav Bhaji maybe a Mumbai delicacy but Lucknow certainly knows how to put a twist to the dish. It is a convenient and absolutely tasty street snack—combining soft buttered bread and spicy curry. Those who prefer experimenting with their food can try pav bhaji with fried rice.

• Chole Bhature

Best served hot with some cool shredded salad, chole bhature now has a national presence, but its Lucknow avatar is considered very special. Gorge on the goodness of the chickpeas and tangy mango pickle smothered by the soft, fried dough. Head over to the Chowk or Lalbagh for the tastiest serving.

• Not Without my Biryani                                                            

It is not strictly street food, but Lucknow’s biryani is a good representation of what this city is about—the finest details, an intricate cooking procedure and an end result of the wholesome flavours. Head over to Gomti Nagar and gorge on a street biryani with a partner before you explore the rest of the old city.

• Soft and Subtle Nimish

A dessert that we all owe to the extravagant urges of the Nawabs, Nimish is a combination of cream, saffron and other exotic ingredients. It is also referred to as makkhan malai and is available during the winters. Head over to the mazy lanes of the Chowk and hunt for this delightful sweet treat.

• The World Famous Basket Chaat

The famous Royal Café is now a city-wide franchise. Find the nearest and order a Katori or basket chaat—the ingredients include fresh greens and herbs, lime and cream among the many others.

• Faluda Kulfi – A Cool Treat

Expect a brain freeze when you have some faluda kulfi, a cold dessert that has enthralled foodies for generations. The creamy combination of milk, saffron and cardamom provides the base of a unique taste. Prakash Kulfi is regarded as the best place for this treat.

• Pandit’s Special Thandai 

The dessert run cannot be complete without thandai. Dry fruits, dairy products and exotic spices combine to give you a royal taste. Find your way to Pandit Raja Thandai in the bustling Kasturba Marg for this wonderful culinary experience.

So plan a trip to Lucknow soon to get the best of the food. We recommend booking hotels in advance before you venture out on your food expedition. Find the best hotels on OYO and ensure yourself a comfortable stay.