Author: Gozocabs

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Jim Corbett National Park – Naam hi kaafi hai

e second destination of our ‘Weekend Quickie Campaign’ is Jim Corbett National Park, the oldest National Park in India which is located in Nainital district of Uttarakhand. The favourite destination for tourists and wildlife lovers it is home to over 400 different species of flora and over 550 different species of fauna. It was established in 1936 to protect the Bengal Tiger, a critically endangered species.
The town of Ramnagar is the headquarters of the Corbett Tiger Reserve. Apart from this species, Leopards, Asiatic Elephants and Spotted Deer are the other star attractions of the park which spans over a massive area of 520 sq. km. One of the best weekend getaway spots for nature lovers, there are around 1 lakh tourists who come to this place annually! It is well connected by road to major towns and lies on the NH 121 highway. Buses, taxis and cabs to Jim Corbett National Park are available aplenty.

How to get there?

Cabs: Cabs to Jim Corbett run from all major cities including New Delhi, Agra, Shimla, Haridwar and Chandigarh. Specially, taxis’/cabs/ shared cabs from New Delhi to Jim Corbett have an excellent frequency and the journey takes around 6 hours. One can also drive down from Delhi (295 km) via Gajraula, Moradabad, Kashipur to reach Ramnagar. To book cabs to Jim Corbett kindly contact us at www.gozocabs.com

Distances from Jim Corbett: Delhi – 295 km, Agra – 330 km, Nanital – 66 km, Ranikhet – 112 km

Trains: There are overnight trains available from Delhi, Lucknow, Kanpur, Agra and Varanasi to Ramnagar. The railway station is located at a distance of 12 km from the main city. Ranikhet Express takes you from Old Delhi to Ramnagar in 6 hours and Kumaon Express is a daily train from Agra to Ramnagar.

Buses: Buses from New Delhi to Jim Corbett run at a frequency of half hour. They will take you to the Ramnagar Bus Terminus, which is around 8 km from the national park. Delhi Transport Corporation runs a semi deluxe service which takes you directly to Ramnagar. There is another route via Haldwani and Nainital from where there are bus services are available. Uttarakhand State Transportation also runs buses to Jim Corbett National Park.

Flight: The closest domestic airport to Corbett National Park is 50 km away from Jim Corbett National Park at Phoolbagh, Pantnagar. Domestic tourists may land at the Delhi or Dehradun Airport from where the connectivity to Jim Corbett is good. For international tourists, the best option would be to land at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi and take a cab to Jim Corbett.

Where to Stay?

A number of guest houses, resorts, holiday inns and hotels in Jim Corbett are available that can be booked for a good weekend stay. Jim Corbett is divided into 5 tourism zones namely, Dhikala, Jhirna, Bijrani, Sonanadi and Domunda all of which have rest houses available. However, the availability of the rooms is dependent upon the season. Staying overnight inside the park is recommended instead of booking a room in the main city. Being a part of vast expanse of flora, lighting a bonfire at night and experiencing the beauty of nature are things that cannot be missed.

The Budget Stay Options and Packages to the Wild Jungle Lodge for a night for 2 people are:

Accommodation Type

Tariff (2 people)

Adventure Camping

950

Mud Hut

1500

Camp Cottage

1750

Jungle Cottage-DX

2250

River View Cottage-Ground Floor

3350

River View Cottage-First Floor

3850

Luxurious hotels in Jim Corbett are Corbett River Creek Resort and Spa, Damy Royal Hotel, The Homestead at Corbett Country, Aranya Safari Resort, Corbett Mango Bloom and Tarika’s Jungal Park.

What Lies in Store!

The vast variety of flora and fauna is the main attraction here. Jim Corbett, one of the 9 tiger reserves in India is home to nearly three-fourths of the total Bengal Tigers in the country. Asiatic elephants, deer, wild boar and jackals are found in huge numbers inside the wildlife sanctuary. Some of the smaller residents of the park are Himalayan Palm Civet, Langur, Rhesus Monkey, Indian Gray Mongoose, Common Otter, Blacknaped Hare, Himalayan goral, Indian pangolins and Porcupine. Along the Ramganga River shores, one can spot the long-snouted, fish-eating Gharial Crocodile and the ‘Mugger’ Crocodile. The most celebrated fish in the region is Golden Mahseer. Also seen on the rocky hillsides is the Ghoral or Goat Antelopes.

A rich assemblage of Sal forests, chaurs (grasslands), khair-sissoo forests can be seen. The most visible trees found in Corbett are Sal, Sissoo and Khair. Many other species that contribute to the diversity are found scattered throughout the park. Chir Pine is the only conifer here and is found on ridge-tops. The upper reaches near Kanda ridge have Oak growing, which is essentially a Himalayan species. Other major tree species are Bel, Kusum, Mahua, Bakli.

Fun Stuff!

Jeep Safari: Guests coming to Jim Corbett Park can book Jeep safari in Jim Corbett Park, in advance for morning or afternoon trips. Permits are issued starting 30 days in advance.

Elephant Safari: The elephant rides are available for the guests coming to Jim Corbett Park. It is advisable to go during dawn instead of dusk since the wild animals may turn aggressive during the evening times.

Fishing: Jim Corbett Park has 2 rivers, where guests can go for angling (catch-and-release). Permits can be obtained from director office, while staying at Wild Jungle Lodge at very nominal prices.

Trekking: Trekking expeditions and backpacking tours in the Himalayas are organized periodically.

Adventure Activities: Rock-climbing, rappelling, river-crossing and slithering is available. Parasailing, mountain biking are the sporting activities available in Jim Corbett. Camping activities during the night are also part of the bucket list here.

Other Attractions!

Dhikuli: Situated at the fringes of Patli Dun valley, there is a rest house, built a hundred of years ago from where Kanda ridge forms the backdrop and one can enjoy the spectacular beauty of the valley.

Kalagarh Dam: It is located in the south-west of the wildlife sanctuary and is one of the best places for a bird watching tour, especially the migratory waterfowl that comes during the winters.

Corbett Falls: Located 25 km from Ramnagar on the Kaladhungi–Ramnagar highway, the falls is surrounded by dense forests and pin drop silence.

Crocodile Pool, Dhikala Machaan, Getheryo Library (Dhikala), Corbett Museum (Dhangadi gate), Garjia Temple, Jim Corbett House are other attractions in the area. One can extend one’s trip to other nearby hill stations like Nainital (65 km), Ranikhet (95 km), Kausani and Mukteswar as well.

Do’s and Dont’s!

Walking or trekking inside the park is strictly prohibited. Avoid perfumes and bright clothes, wear clothes of colour which merge with the natural surroundings. Carry a litter bag while entering the reserve and bring back non-biodegradable litter. Don’t talk loudly inside, nor smoke inside the forest. Do not collect plants or pluck flowers. While taking photographs or shooting videos, do not disturb the animals. Shouting, teasing or chasing animals or attempts to feed them are prohibited.

Ideal Season!

The weather is extreme in Jim Corbett Park. Winters is a great time for bird-watching and tiger sighting while monsoons are a good time for walks and trekking. The best time to visit Corbett Park is between October till May end. The Jhirna Range and Sitabani Forests remain open round the year while the Bijrani and Dhikala Ranges open only from November till June each year.

Ideal Time n Budget!

The stay at Jim Corbett Park depends on your interest and liking. Minimum suggested stay at Corbett Park is for 3 Days. If you get a Friday or a Monday off, you should pack your bags and not think twice before going to Jim Corbett. Book a cab to Jim Corbett and stay inside the forests to experience the beauty of nature. A stay in a tree house or a camp would be an experience of a lifetime. A conservative budget for a 3 day stay would be INR 4,000 but a comfortable estimate would be INR 6,000. So what are you waiting for? Book a cab for Jim Corbett and enjoy your stay there!!

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Lansdowne – An Adobe in the Clouds

The crowing jewel of Garhwal Hills (Uttaranchal), Lansdowne is an exotic holiday destination for anyone who yearns for mental peace and rejuvenation. Placed at a height of 1,700 metres above sea level, this place got its name from Lord Lansdowne, an erstwhile Viceroy of India. Its salubrious weather and pristine environment make the city an ideal ‘Weekend Getaway’ spot for all Delhites. Located 260 kilometres north of New Delhi in the mountains of Uttarakhand, it takes just 7 hours to reach the city from the capital. It houses the headquarters of Garhwal Rifles, the eminent battalion of the Indian National Army. Endowed with a picturesque landscape, the city’s aura includes beautiful buildings, temples, museums and lakes. A perfect holiday destination for a ‘weekend quickie’, Lansdowne welcomes all its visitors with open arms and promises a visit to remember.

How to get there?

Delhi to Lansdowne Route
Delhi to Lansdowne Route

Cabs: Taxis and cabs are available from New Delhi to Lansdowne. Lansdowne is well connected by road through a network of state and national highways including NH24, NH58, NH119 and NH199. For families, booking a cab from Delhi to Lansdowne is recommended since it is convenient and takes lesser time. There are several prominent tour operators and cab providers that provide cabs on this route. For more information kindly contact us at www.gozocabs.com

Trains: There is no direct train from New Delhi to Lansdowne. However, 2 trains leaving from Old Delhi Railway Station (namely Mussorie Express n Garhwal Express) take you to Kotdwar – a place 41 kilometres from Lansdowne. Beyond this place, you would have to book a cab to Lansdowne. Shared cabs for Lansdowne are also available. We would recommend going by Garhwal Express since it runs in the morning. Throughout its route, the train cuts through the gigantic mountains making it a treat for the eyes.

Buses: Travelling by road from Delhi to Lansdowne is much more convenient than by train. Private non-A/c and Volvo buses are available in plenty to travel from Delhi to Kotdwar. They leave from ISBT at a frequency of 3 hours every day. Flight: Lansdowne does not have an airport and Dehradun is the nearest airport connecting to Delhi. From the airport, taxis and cabs for Lansdowne are available costing about INR 2,000.

Where to Stay?

Budget Hotels: Ajanta Guest House, Lans View, Shri Gobind Highway Motel, Vinayak Resorts are the hotels in Lansdowne where you can stay for under INR 1,000 per night.

Mid-Range Hotels: Hotels in Lansdowne charging a tariff in range of INR 1,500 – 2,000 per night include Forest Palace, GMVN Lansdowne, Jadali Guest House, Shantiraj Resorts, The Oak Grave, Mayur Cottage. The ambience of these places is good, especially that of Forest Palace.

Classy Hotels: These are places that would ensure you have a stay to remember. Excellent service quality and food, amidst great locales, the tariff charged here would be in excess of INR 2,500 per night. These include Le Osh Hotel, Blue Pine Resort, The Garhwali Inn, Bright Sunny Pines Resort, Kasang Regency Resort, Lans Castle. Out of these we recommend Lans Castle for its hospitality!

Places to Visit!

Lansdowne is endowed with a natural beauty with its plush landscape and exotic terrain. It also houses some man-made architectural marvels that leave you intrigued.

War Memorial: Located at Parade Ground, this is a tribute to the indomitable spirit of renowned regiment, Garhwal Rifles.

Darwan Singh Museum
Darwan Singh Museum

Darwan Singh Museum: Consists of photographs of army, patriots in various wars, certificates and citations signed by the royalty, old uniforms, guns, real medals and weapons.

Garhwali Mess: Built in Jan 1888, it is one of the oldest buildings in Lansdowne and an integral part of the city’s heritage.

Tarkeshwar Temple_Lansdowne
Tarkeshwar Temple

Tarkeshwar Mahadev Temple: A secluded temple amidst lush green forests of deodar trees, it is a magnificent sight to feel the calmness and enjoy nature free of urbanisation!

Tip-n-Top Point: It is the highest point of Lansdowne and the view of the Joshimath’s snow clad mountains from there is amazing; best time to go is early morning!

Tip-N-Top Point_Lansdowne
Tip-N-Top Point

Bhim Pakora: Cute place that has a stone which moves with thumb force but not on pushing by hand. Word of caution: the 2 km road from the main market to the place is badL!

Bhulla Tal Lake: Boating in the lake early morning refreshes and recharges you. You’ll get to see a lot of different birds in the vicinity. The nursery alongside the lake is good for buying different medicinal plants too. Try to walk down from Tip n Top hill to this lake!

Fun Stuff!

Camping in Lansdowne is possibleJ. Get your tents along and enjoy the night with a bonfire and soothing music. However, camping needs military’s permission. It is allowed in the Tarkeshwar Temple area after seeking permission from the temple priest. But the threat of wild animals including bears, boars and leopards is imminent.

Trekking at Lansdowne is easier than other hill stations since the stretches are not that steep. Also, there is a small nursery run by Garhwal regiment; you may buy plants from here!

Nearby Holiday Destinations!

In case you have time, there are places along the Delhi-Lansdowne route that are worth visiting!

Nearby places around Lansdowne
Nearby places around Lansdowne

Rudraprayag: A popular tourist and pilgrim site, it is 121 km from Lansdowne.

Haridwar: About 112 km from Lansdowne, it is one of the seven holiest cities of India.

Rishikesh: Renowned for its adventure sports like rafting, it is located at 129 km from Lansdowne.

Pauri: A quiet hill-station famous for its calm climate and green cover, it is 57 km from Lansdowne.

Where to Eat?

Gandhi Chowk area is the place to have our lunch or dinner. Momos of Hotel Zayaka and the gigantic Aloo parantha of Hotel Mayur are must haves.

Ideal Season!

The ideal season to visit the city is during the summers. April – September would be the peak with majority of the crowd coming from nearby cities like Delhi, NCR, Chandigarh and Dehradun. The weather is pleasant and the calm breezes would act as a tranquilizer from the hectic city life.

Ideal Time n Budget!

The ideal time needed to visit Lansdowne is around 2 days. A train or a cab can be taken from New Delhi to Lansdowne and you would be able to reach your destination the next morning. However, more than roaming around, just staying at this hill station would be an amazing experience. On a tight budget, you might be able to complete your entire trip within INR 2,500. However, a realistic and optimum range would be INR 5,000 per person for a good weekend stay at Lansdowne. And if you are in the mood to splurge, sky is the limit 😛

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Gozocabs Celebrates its 4000th Booking

As India approaches the dawn of a new government coming into power, we at Gozocabs also have something to cheer about. We recently received our 4000th Booking which marks a new milestone in our eventful journey. Within a span of nearly 18 months we have catered to a plethora of customers always keeping giving paramount importance to their preferences and priorities. And it has been one hell of a journey. In hindsight, it is probably fair to say that our goal of making a difference in the society is what prompted us to take the leap and quit of well cushioned MNC jobs. Currently, what we are feeling is exemplified by the age old adage – ‘With great power, comes great responsibility’. We have a responsibility towards our existing stakeholders’ as well new members of the Gozo Community who keep joining us at various points throughout journey.We feel we’ve taken steps in the right direction and although there are ‘Miles to go before we sleep’, we are glad to have come this far! Our earnest endeavors would be to expand our operations from 17 cities currently to 50 cities by the end of this year. We would require your support for the same and an opportunity to serve you.

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Happiness – The mantra at Gozocabs

Happiness -1

Happiness -1
Most of us often wonder, ‘What is the secret to remaining happy’? Is it by doing things that one is passionate about? Does it mean having a good job and feeding one’s family? Is it about compromising in the present scenario to gain higher returns (monetary and non-monetary) in the future? Or does it involve helping others? Well, the answer is all of this and more! Every action of ours is governed by the thought of attaining happiness. All the goals that we set for ourselves and everything that we want to achieve in life, is driven by this simple motive. What most of fail to realize though is that it is not the ‘End’ that counts, but the ’Journey’ that makes us what we are! At Gozocabs, we feel that every day of ’Journey’ needs to be filled with ‘Happiness’.

Happiness -3“Gozo” in Spanish, means ‘Delight’. Our name epitomizes our philosophy of being happy and making others around us happy. Professionally, we would want to provide the best cab service facilities to our customers at the most subsidized rates, ensuring their happiness. But as people, our motto behind running Gozocabs is that we are happy to make a difference every day. We are passionate about working by ourselves instead of taking up a mundane job in an MNC and channelizing our energies for someone else. The challenges that we face on a daily basis, the quick decisions that we need to take in order to take satisfy our customers and the pleasure that we derive with each positive customer feedback gives us happiness.

We are cognizant of the fact that legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Roger Federer and Lata Mangeshkar, have spent endless hours following their ‘passion’ which enabled them to accomplish the great things that they did.
Happiness -4They would have tried, failed, learnt from their mistakes and tried again. We believe in this philosophy of ‘trying’. We are as passionate for our venture, as these stalwarts were passionate for honing their skills in their respective fields. Our vision is to organize the inter-city cab market and to be a leader in introducing advanced technologies to make cab journey’s more efficient, affordable and hassle-free. Whether it is trying to build awareness about Gozocabs or trying to create a difference, we are learning and improving every day. We have that child-like enthusiasm to learn new things and the energy to take that extra step. For clients and employees alike our mantra is the same – Happiness. We would like to create an environment that makes us and people around us energetic, satisfied and hungry for more!!

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Gozocabs Celebrates Valentine’s Day!!

 

Valentine's Couple  With trembling feet and a nervous smile, the   guy waited for a reply,                                 She shrugged him off and her eyes implied:     “Thank you for the try”,                                 He still tried and still failed, yearning for the     right moment to say,                                     But this time round, she said “Yes”, cause it     was Valentine’s Day!

This is the power of Saint Valentine, the original ‘Love-Guru’. A girl on any normal day may slap you if you propose to her, but she can’t refuse you on Valentine’s Day. We believe that anything is possible; all it requires is a little push, little pull and 100% madness. On this day one person (usually a guy) professes his love for his partner (usually a girl :P) and irrespective of the answer he becomes a wiser person with each Valentine’s Day!

CupidHave you ever had this strange feeling of anxiety and longing in your heart on seeing someone? Did you get butterflies in your tummy while talking to someone special? Or if you haven’t experienced the above, do you remember ogling over the most beautiful girl in your class and not having the guts to go upto her. These are all symptoms of “Loveria” and indications that Cupid is nearby. And this would in turn translate into a gift that she (or he or them) would remember for a lifetime.

We at Gozocabs are there to help you in celebrating this festival of love. The best gift that you can give your beloved is your presence. We understand and value your time and emotions and would explain to you 3 simple steps to make this Valentine’s Day special:

Idea1)     Get a Date. In case you have been rejected or you are short of options, do not hesitate to call your friends (:P). We are sure some of them would be sailing in the same boat as you. Single friends are the next best thing to getting an actual date on this day. Point is – Have some around.

2)     Make a Commitment. No matter what you’ll be spending the night of 14th Feb, 2014 with him/her/them (in some tragic cases).

3)     Give a Gift. Book a cab with Gozocabs telling us when and where you want to picked up and dropped and we’ll do the needful for you!

So if you’re a techie working in Chandigarh or Jaipur and your partner is in a finance firm in Delhi, or if you are single (not by choice :P) who wants to spend time with his beloved

 single friends (may or may not be gay), then just dial +91-8288054205 and we’ll provide a cab at your doorstep to take you to your loved one. We would charge just a one way tariff so in case you want to spend some days at your destination you just need to pay a one-side fare. We’re offering 10% Valentine’s Week discount from 8th – 14th Feb, 2014. Use Coupon Code: VAL121 to avail the discount. Looking forward to serving you in the coming days and in future!!