Agra: A World Famous Tourist Spot

Tourists and history lovers have endless love for Agra for its exceptional buildings and monuments. Agra is also a prominent pilgrimage center due to the presence of several religious places. Temples, mosques and other structural wonders in Agra provides religious and spiritual feelings for the visitors.

Presence of numerous tombs, stones and graveyards dedicated to well known religious leaders are famous in the land of Agra.Mariam’s tomb the tomb of Mariam, wife of great Mughal Emperor Akbar is also present here.

The secular lookout of the city is depicted in several famous places of worship for both the Muslims and the Hindus like the Jama Masjid and the Mankameshwar temple. The Guru Ka Taal located at Agra is a large tank with beautiful towers erected around it. The Jama Masjid and Moti Masjid located at Agra built by the great Mughal emperor Shahjahan are excellent examples of the splendid Mughal architecture.

JAIPUR

The Pink Cityaˆ¦.

The glistening Jaipur also known as the the Pink City was founded by and named after Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. The royal Rajput heritage is clearly visible in the imposing forts and impressive palaces of Jaipur attract tourists from all over the world. Jaipur is a land of natural beauty and great history. The warm hospitality of people and ofcourse a plethora of colourful handicrafts drags the visitors to this magnificent land. In addition to that Jaipur hosts several festivals from the modern Jaipur Literary festival to the traditional Gangaur, Teej and the Kite festival glorifying its image.

The City Palace Complex is abundant with a rare combination of the finest blends of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture and is one of the most magnificent marvels in Jaipur. The vast area right in the heart of the old city is indeed a remarkable sight. Several buildings, huge courtyards and well-planned gardens make this complex a beauty.

The Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum includes the mahal comes before the main complex. A long series of royal costumes like embroideries, shawls, Benares silk sarees, the maharaja’s pyjamas, kamarbands, chogas, jamawars etc are an attraction in the museum. Giant sized musical instruments like the tanpura and sarangis are also displayed in the museum.

The Maharani’s Palace includes the deadly Rajput scissor-action daggers which have a unique working action are a delight for visitors. There are wide varieties of early handguns, the ones that served as walking sticks, etc. One of them was the size of a small canon fired from a camel’s back, pistols attached with swords, matchlocks, double-barrel guns and percussion cap guns.Daggers with handles of crystal and ivory are priceless. Peak-kubz jambhiya, katars, chhuris, Rajput and Persian swords are also a great attraction. The shield of Sawai Pratap Singh and Raja Man Singh’s sword, a big range of shields made from the skins of crocodile, rhino, and turtle skin is also on the display.

UDAIPUR

Venice of East…..!!

Udaipur formally known as the city of lakes and Venice of East is the lovely lakeside capital of Mewar. Udaipur was founded by Maharana Udai Singh II as the final capital of the erstwhile Mewar kingdom. The kingdom of Mewar was the most respectable of all Rajput princely states in Rajasthan. The warriors of Mewar are still remembered for their bravery & courage. The numerous rivers crisscrossing the town gave Udaipur another name as the city of lakes. The beauty and remarkable past of Udaipur remain in the hearts of visitors for a long time.

Udaipur is a beautiful city in the state of Rajasthan also referred to as the “Kashmir of Rajasthan” or the “Venice of the East”. Udaipur the “Romantic City of India” is one among the most romantic and most beautiful cities of the country. The lush hills of the Aravalis around the azure water lakes make this land beautiful.

Udaipur city of Rajasthan state is a blended with fascinating sights, sounds and experiences drenched in romance and beauty. The land is inspired by the poets, painters and writers for the serene atmosphere. The flavor of heroic past carried by the temples, fairy-tale palaces, gardens, lakes and narrow lanes strewn with stalls is an epitome for the valor and gallantry of the city.

The enchanting lakes, palaces and lively workspaces and culture attracting both the foreign and domestic visitors have made Udaipur a popular tourist destination in India. Udaipur is also a favourite marriage destination of many prominent people of the country. The Swaroop Sagar Lake, Fateh Sagar Lake and the Lake Pichhola are the three interconnected lakes of Udaipur. Major cities of the country including Delhi, Ahmedabad and Mumbai are easily accessible from Udaipur.

GOA

One of the most preferred holiday destinations of India is Goa. The place especially during the monsoon is a tropical paradise enchanting all the year round. Goa is one of the most visited destinations of the country. Fringed by coastal trees and lapped by Arabian Sea the Goa beaches are a delight and the perfect destination for a wonderful hangout.

Goa is a picturesque blend of tremendous natural beauty and traditional and modern facets of Indian life. The windy palms, plush landscape, sun-kissed beaches, and the adjacent Arabian Sea tapping on shores make Goa a very lovely destination. The catholic churches and gothic synagogues make the architecture of Goa a reminiscent of the colonial era. Other prominent ones are the Church of St. Francis, the Church of St. Augustine, St. Anne Church, the Reis Magos Church, and the Mary Immaculate Conception etc.

It exhibits one of the finest beaches in the world and especially for beach lovers Goa is an absolute delight. With the flea markets and Trance parties, Anjuna beach is the prominent one in Goa. The Chapora Fort located nearby Anjuna beach offers a magnificent view of the vast blue Sea. The Calangute beach of Goa being the most commercialized beach of the South Western part of India is one of the not to be missed beaches . These beaches are a favorite to the tourists for the eating spots and shops that are lined up here. Some other prominent shores of Goa are Vagator Beach, Candolim beach, Baga Beach, Bambolim Beach, etc. Every year this enchanting destination attracts plenty of tourists with its exotic beaches and energetic nightlife. The spice plantations are also a major attraction in Goa.

MYSORE

City of Palacesaˆ¦aˆ¦aˆ¦!!

Mysore also called as the “City of Palaces” is a major tourist destination of south India. The place is prominent with palaces, temples, royal buildings, museums, gardens, waterfalls and amusement parks. Mysore the former capital of Karnataka played an important role in the South Indian history. Along with its drastic growth as a famous tourist destination the rich cultural and historical legacy of the city is well maintained. The magnificence of the city of Mysore made it a favorite destination for visitors all over India. Visitors from within as well as outside the country are greatly attracted to this splendid destination. The City of Mysore is known as the ‘City Of Palaces’ for the number of glorious buildings built by the Royal families. Many of the traditional buildings are exquisite examples for the Dravidian architecture.

There are number of other tourist’s attractions that one can visit in Mysore, apart from the Palaces and architectural splendor. The Chamundi hills temple on top of the hills is one of the popular spots in Mysore. It is a favorite destination for the locales and a prominent landmark of Mysore. The KRS dam and the adjacent Brindavan Gardens are worth visiting in Mysore. The Garden of Brindavan is unique. This garden is famous for its colorfully lit dancing fountains that come alive once the sun sets. Another destination worth visiting is the Mysore Zoo which is the oldest Zoo in the country.It was set up by Maharaja Chamaraja Wodeyar in the year 1892. At present equipped with the most modern facilities the zoo is a pioneer in breeding animals in captivity. With a relic of the 3rd century St. Philomena the Philomena Church is another famous monument of Mysore city. It is preserved in a catacomb in below the main altar. The high spires with a height of 175 feet are a well known feature of this church. Set in lush green surroundings the three lakes in Mysore have become a haven for migratory birds.

KASHMIR

The paradise on Earthaˆ¦aˆ¦aˆ¦!!

The everlasting charm and splendor make Kashmir an amazingly beautiful destination of the country. Due to its natural beauty, tempting snow capped mountains, musical waterfalls, scenic lakes, lush green surroundings, verdant woods and many other places of tourist interests, the land is called the Paradise on Earth. Located at the northern most tip of the country Kashmir is one of the most sought after holiday destinations. The Great Himalayan Ranges and the Pir Panjal surrounds the magnificent land of Kashmir from the north and south respectively.

The captivating natural splendor, blissful ambiance, sightseeing places, cultural diversity, humble locals, and the cool climatic conditions make the Beauty of Kashmir unique. The Kashmir valleys are crisscrossed by prominent rivers. These spectacular features enhance the beauty of Kashmir to give it a place close to “Heaven on Earth”.

Kashmir is an ideal place for pilgrimage, adventure sports and trekking as well as leisure vacation. The natural heavenly beauty of Kashmir lures thousands and thousands of tourists from all over the world. The lakes of Kashmir dotted with houseboat facilities are the unique attraction of the region.A Cruise on the fabulous Houseboats in the lakes of Kashmir is an enchanting experience. The hills of Kashmir capped with snow exhibits very low temperature making it ideal for excursions. Some of the prominent locations of Kashmir are Bahu fort, Raghunath temple, Sonamarg, Mubarak Mandi Palace, Chadar Trek, Gulmarg and Peer Baba.

KANYAKUMARI

With the Arabian Sea in the west and the Bay of Bengal in the east Kanyakumari is a very unique destination of India in the state of Tamil Nadu. Kanyakumari or Cape comerin is located in the southernmost tip of the country, where the three seas get united. The beautiful sunrise and sunset of Kanyakumari made it a popular destination of India.

A lot of tourists are attracted by the serene beauty of Kanyakumari. It is one of the rare destinations in the world where both sunrise and sunset can be observed from the same point. Murugan Kundram is atop a hill at Kanyakumari which gives a magnificent view of both sunrise and sunset throughout the year. The sunset is visible only from October 15 to March 15 in a year; whereas the sunrise can be viewed from this southernmost tip throughout the year. This spot offers a wonderful panoramic view of the entire Kanyakumari. On full moon days both the sunset and moonrise can be seen almost simultaneously from the same spot. This unique spectacle is witnessed at Kanyakumari.

Two rocks In the midst of the sea known as ‘twin rocks’, with the monuments of swamy Vivekananda and Saint Thiruvalluvar contribute to the rich Indian heritage. The rich cultural heritage and the history of Kanyakumari date back to decades. Kanyakumari is the hub of civilization for centuries and is prominent for the culture, arts, economy, and history. Kanyakumari is one of the prominent pilgrimage destinations of South India due to the instances of many religions like Islam, Christianity, or Hinduism. The structures, arts and even in the cuisines of Kanyakumari reflects this mixed culture.

KERALA BACKWATERS

God’s own country……!!

Kerala blessed with a unique feature called the backwaters is the southernmost state of the country. The broad stretch of waterways is a lasting source of tourism as well as a livelihood for the state. The backwaters surrounded by the tall palms and coconut trees exhibits the rippling beauty of nature. Every year thousands of domestic and international tourists are drawn towards these enchanting backwaters. The green surroundings, vibrant people of the locale and small villages make the visitors feel elated.

The major feature of Kerala backwaters are the houseboats which attracts plenty of tourists. Houseboats traditionally named as the “ketuvalloms” are actually large all-wood vessels with all facilities provided inside. Equipped with modern facilities house boats meets up to the world standards such as large hotel suites etc. We can watch the beauty of the backwaters right from a room inside the houseboats. Most of the rooms are well furnished, air-conditioned with no compromise in safety of inmates. They are assisted by a general manager, chefs or cooks.The traditional Kerala cuisines and special sea foods of Kerala are served deliciously in the houseboats. There are amenities like dining extravaganza, ayurveda massage and beauty treatments inside the houseboat.

Alappuzha, Kuttanad, Thiruvallam, and Kollam are the prominent backwater regions of Kerala. The backwaters of Alappuzha witness the exciting snake boat races of Kerala which brings lots of visitors to this enchanting land. In these prestigious boat races the traditional boats of Kerala participate.

DELHI

Delhi the capital city of India also known as New Delhi is one of the main arrival point for overseas tourists. The Qutub Minar, Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple and Jama Masjid are the main places of tourist attraction in Delhi. Delhi locally known as Dilli offers a large opportunity for a tremendous shopping of unique and diverse traditional products. Karol bagh, Connaught Place, Chandni Chowk, Sarojini nagar Market, Palika Bazzar, Gaffar market and Lajpat Nagar Market are the main markets of Delhi. Another not to miss destination is the Delhi Haats.

The city is not only the capital of the country but is acclaimed for being the cultural capital of the country too. The spectacular architecture is depicted by the antique monuments of Delhi. The city witnesses the interesting blend of cultures, the mysterious eternity of the rise and fall of many great empires. There are seven cities in the contemporary Delhi which were built by different emperors in mean time. Some major tourist attractions are made from the ruins of this ancient city. The city of Delhi consists of two parts, one is the old part and the other is the new one. The Old Delhi is full of Mughal and British architectural structures, by-lanes and alleys whereas New Delhi contains several modern buildings and offices.

The climatic conditions of Delhi are extreme. The summer can be very hot. Temperature often goes above 45° Celsius while it is chilly and foggy in the winter. The ideal time for sightseeing and adventures is from the month of October to March.

AJANTHA ELLORA

Ajanta and Ellora Caves are rock-cut cave monuments and are two different tourist destinations in Maharashtra. The Ajanta-Ellora Caves are located near the city of Aurangabad in the state of Maharashtra. They are declared as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Beautiful paintings and sculptures are featured in these caves. Situated just outside the village of Ajanta are the prominent Ajanta Caves, 107 km away from Aurangabad city. Dating back to the 2nd century BC, there are around 29 rock-cut cave monuments in this complex. The first group of these caves was built around 200 BC, while the second group was built in later 600 AD.

Ajanta caves are nestled in the semi-arid Sahayadri Hills above the Waghur River and are prominent for the beautiful paintings and sculptures. It is built using only hammer and chisel. These caves are the secluded retreats for Buddhist monks to perform their rituals in the chaityas and viharas. The well preserved wall paintings of Boddhisattva, Padmapani and Avalokiteshvar are the prominent artworks in the caves.

The archaeological site of the Ellora cave complex is located 30 km from the city of Aurangabad. These caves were built by the Rashtrakuta rulers between the 5th and 10th centuries. There are 34 caves in the cave complex that were hewn out of solid rocks of the Charanandri Hills. These are the monasteries for Buddhists as well as temples for Hindus and Jains. The Ellora complex comprises of 12 Buddhist, 17 Hindu and 5 Jain caves which symbolizes the religious harmony of that time. The Ajanta-Ellora Festival organised every year in Aurangabad is meant for paying tribute to the legendary caves of Ellora, Ajanta and other historical assets of the country.

DARJEELING

Queen of hillsaˆ¦aˆ¦..!!

Darjeeling is a prominent Himalayan city located in the state of West Bengal. It is well known for the charm and is considered to be one of the best hill stations in India. The surrounding areas of Darjeeling like Mirik, Jaldapara, Gangtok and Pelling are also prominent tourist destinations. This hidden paradise of North Bengal includes a joy ride in the world famous toy train which has been listed as UNESCO World Heritage site.

Darjeeling is one of the most significant and organized hill resorts of India. It lies 686 kms from the plains of Kolkata perched at a height of 2134 meters with a backdrop of the mighty snow clad Peaks of Himalayas. The world’s highest peak and the third mightiest and highest mountainous snow peaks can be viewed clearly from this sight. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site prominent for the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and the tea industry. Finest blend of tea can be tasted from this hill station.

Darjeeling had now become the most desired holiday destination of the country with innumerable tourists who throng it. The Buddhist monasteries and the Hindu temples are the most visited destinations of Darjeeling. The Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway, Singalila Range Trek, the ultimate Toy Train trip in Darjeeling and much more provides an Adventure Tourism in Darjeeling.

Along with tea, oranges and cardamom are also available in plenty in Darjeeling. Amazing products of Traditional arts and crafts of Tibet and Sikkim are available for shopping. Delicious cuisines of traditional Tibetan and Sikkimese style are available in the hill station along with the other Indian dishes. Summer and spring are the ideal seasons to visit Darjeeling. The hill station receives a moderate rain throughout the year.

SHIMLA

The Summer Refuge

Shimla is the present capital of Himachal Pradesh and the former summer capital of British in India. The land of Shimla has been blessed with all the natural bounties making it an ideal tourist destination. It is surrounded by green hills with snow capped peaks with tremendous scenic beauty. The spectacular cool hills of Shimla are accompanied by the structures made during the colonial era which creates an aura different from other destinations.Shimla retains its colonial heritage with grand old buildings bulging at it seems with unprecedented expansion. The stately Viceregal Lodge, charming iron lamp posts and Anglo-Saxon names are few of the architectural splendors of Shimla.

Shimla unfolds many parts that remain hidden to vehicles. Sankat Mochan and Tara Devi can be linked with a short train ride to Tara Devi station. The stroll and shopping on the Mall and in Lakkar Bazaar is inevitable for the tourists. The Lower Bazaar that runs parallel to the Mall at a lower level flavors a typical Indian market place. The wild flower hall, Mashobra, Naldehra, Tattapani, Fagu, Narkanda and Chail are some of the major sightseeing areas in Shimla.

The best time to visit Shimla is during April to August or during December to January however it can be visited throughout the year and can enjoy the charm of each season. Shimla experiences cold and chilly winds from the upper Himalayas during winter. Shimla witnesses many winter sports and ice skating carnival during winter.

UTTARANCHAL

Uttaranchal is a north eastern state of the great Indian Territory with immense beauty and tranquility. The snowy mountain ranges, gusting rivers, natural serenity and lakes made the place more attractive. The western part of the Himalayan ranges provides a picturesque of snow capped hills in Uttaranchal. It is known as the land of God with many prominent temples and pilgrim centers. The green valley, lush forestry, rich flora and fauna add to its beauty.

Uttaranchal is a common picnic spot with many adventurous sports like trekking, skiing, skating, wildlife safaris etc. The hill stations, Glaciers, wildlife, pilgrim centers and national parks are the major tourist destination of the state. The valley of flowers made the place more colorful with plenty of different species of flora. Musoorie, Khirsu, Pauri, Nainital, Kausani, Haridwar, Rishikesh and Auli are the most prominent hill stations of Uttaranchal. Experience the most mesmerizing beauty of nature from these prominent destinations of Uttaranchal.

RAJASTHAN

The state of Rajasthan is well known for its delightful tourist destinations. The imperial land of Rajasthan is known as the state of colors, forts, festivals and quaint nature. The state is located in the north western part of the nation with hilly terrain and Thar Desert. The pink city of India-Jaipur, the Golden city of India-Jaisalmer and the city of Lakes-Udaipur are the major significance of the state.

Explore the grandeur of impregnable palaces and forts, astonishing lakes, golden deserts and exotic wildlife of Rajasthan. The unique culture, festivals, traditions and lifestyle of people made the place a mesmerizing tourist spot. The Rajasthan cuisines and sweets are very famous for its different style and taste. The attractive handicrafts of Rajasthan are famous for its beautiful hand embroidery. The desert festival is one of the popular festivals of Rajasthan which attracts lots of tourists from all around the world.

KULLU MANALI

Kullu And Manali are the most astounding hill stations of North India. These famous destinations are located at a distance of 40km from each other and at 570km and 521km respectively from the state capital of the country, Delhi. This fascinating destination has snow covered mountain ranges, rhythmic rivers, dense forest ranges, cascading waterfalls, valleys and many more. There are wide options for adventures activities like skiing, trekking, rafting etc at this astounding destination. Above all these panoramic view, there are also a number of temples and monuments at Kullu-Manali.

The best time to visit Kullu Manali hill station situated at Himachal Pradesh is during the month of May, June, and September to November. This picnic spot is one of the most crowded one in India being the haven for adventure lovers, vacationers and honeymooners. Manali hill station is located at a height of 6398feet above sea level with intense cold climate. The temperature varies from 15 to 20 degree Celsius but it may even go below -5 during October to March. Rohtang Pass, Hidimba Temple, Maa Sharvari Temple, Solang Valley, Rahala Waterfalls, Rozy falls, Zana falls, Naggar, Monasteries, Manali Gompa are few of the major destinations at Kullu Manali.

AMRITSAR

Amritsar is a perfect tourist destination of India showcasing the compound traditions and secular culture of the nation. The city of Amritsar is also regarded as an important devout center for the presence of many enchanting temples. The glorious past, magnificent present and a hopeful future are well exhibited in the city of Amritsar. This fascinating land is titled as the jewel of Punjab for the prosperous depository of national heritage and religion. Amritsar is the largest and most important city of Punjab and is located 280 miles from Delhi. Amritsar is known for the prominent golden temple devoted to Sikh religion. The sacred tank surrounding the temple offers a lovely sight of the temple. The Durgiana temple situated earby is a partial replica of Golden temple dedicated to Goddess Durga. The Harike Wetland Lake is another prominent tourist destination of Amritsar which is declared as national wildlife sanctuary. The spot is formed on the point of confluence of the rivers Beas and Sutlej. Amritsar experiences a semi arid climate suitable for excursion on any time of the year. The Jallianwala bagh memorial commemorating the sacrifice of many lives is located near to Golden temple. Another prominent site is the Rambagh garden which is laid out in the pattern of Shalimar Bagh at Lahore.

VARANASI

Varanasi is an important Hindu pilgrim center of the country and is the oldest city of the world. Varanasi is the land of spiritualism, Indian philosophy, mysticism and Hinduism. These are well depicted in the prominent temples, numerous sects, Ashrams and Ghats. Along with Hinduism, other religions like Jainism and Buddhism is also practiced in this sacred land. The old Indian civilization is greatly reflected in Varanasi. The city is the home for many fairs and festivals all round the year in Varanasi which includes the prominent Bharat Milap, Kartik Purnima, Ganga Festival, Buddh Purnima, Ramlila, Panch Koshi Parikrama, Nakkatyya, Hanumat Jayanti and Mahashivratri. Varanasi is the city of Ghats associated with history dated back to centuries. Varanasi tourism reached its heights for both its historic and renowned pilgrimage significance. Varanasi also known as Banaras or Kashi has many prominent tourist destinations. The Ghats of Varanasi, Bharat Kala Museum, St. Mary’s church, Nandeshwar Kothi, Banaras Hindu university, Ram nagar Durg etc are few of the attractions. The pilgrimage spots of the city include Durga Temple, Bharat Mata Temple, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and Tulsi Manas Temple. The adventure lovers can enjoy the beauty of nature and diversity of wildlife from the Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary and Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary.