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1. What are the options if one wants to go on a cruise in Alaska? How much would a weeklong cruise cost and which country is the starting point for the cruise?

Alkesh Jain, Bangalore

Royal Caribbean offers seven nights cruises to Alaska. A weeklong cruise starts at a minimum of USD 980 (approx.) for an inside stateroom cabin for a sailing from Vancouver to Vancouver. The ports of call are Vancouver (British Columbia), Hubbard Glacier, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, Vancouver. For more information please visit www.royalcaribbean.com

2. When is the best time to visit Valley of Flowers? How many days would be sufficient for the trip and how does one reach there? Is there any good accommodation facility there?

Vanita Naik, Nagpur

The best time to travel is between mid-July to mid-August when nature is in full bloom. A weeklong tour is long enough to experience the beauty of nature. You can travel by rail to Rishikesh and then by road till Joshimath and then on to Govind Ghat. From Govind Ghat, the Valley of Flowers is accessible only on foot, a trek of 17 kms. The last overnight stay is at Ghangaria, which is just 3 kms. from the valley. There are small hotels and restaurants here, which serve fast food, Chinese food, cold drinks and vegetarian food. From Ghangaria, tourists can visit the valley and return the same day. Govind Ghat is also equipped with hotels and guest house. Accommodation varies from forest bungalows, budget hotels or lodges in the meadows.

3. Are there any hill-stations in Kerala other than Munnar? If so, please recommend some along with the best time for a visit?

Ashalata Tripathi, Surat

The major hill resorts of Kerala are Munnar, Ponmudi, Peerumade, Neliyampathy, Peruvannamuzhi, Tusharagiri, Wayanad, Pythal Mala, Ezhimala, Ranipuram, Devikulam, Wagamon etc. The best time to visit is from October to April.

4. What are the options of good trekking trails in South India for a hard core trekker?

Karun Iyer, Pune

There are several trekking trails in South India. You may check out options in the Nilgiris where Udhagamandalam (Ooty) offers several trek routes, which vary in distance, altitude and terrain. There are also trek routes to various points within Western Ghats. The down hills of Western Ghats on the North end up with meeting the extensions of Eastern Ghats, where the sprawling Mudumalai Sanctuary is located opening vistas for adventure tourists. There are options at Mahendragiri Hills, Orissa, perched at an altitude of 1,600 metres., the hill is about 175-kms from Beradpur, and is a popular destination for trekkers. For detailed information, please log on to www.trekkinginindia.com

4. How good is Vishakapatnam as a holiday destination and does it have good accommodation facilities?

Muneza Naqvi, Kochi

Vishakapatnam, also called Vizag, is located on the Bay of Bengal. This city has a variety of sightseeing options, right from the lakes and beaches to its beautiful hill ranges as well as caves and valleys. Vizag also has many tourist spots that represent the culture and heritage of India. The most prominent among them are the Aruku Valley, Borra Caves and the Rishionda Beach. Accommodation catering to all kinds of budget is available.