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| Few famous honeymoon destinations : |
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| Andaman & Nicobar Island |
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| Agra is a city on the banks of the Yamuna River in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh,. Legend ascribes the founding of the city to Rājā Badal Singh (around 1475), whose fort, Badalgarh, stood on or near the site of the present Fort. Sultan Sikander Lodhi was the first to move his capital from Delhi to Agra in the year 1506; he died in 1517 and his son Ibrahin Lodhi remained in power there for nine more years, finally being defeated at the Battle of Panipat in 1526. It achieved fame as the capital of the Mughal emperors from 1526 to 1658 and remains a major tourist destination because of its many splendid Mughal-era buildings, most notably the Tāj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur SIkri, all three of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. |
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| Agra |
| Agra is a land with a glorious past created by skilled architects as the seat for the Mughal Empire. Situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, with its crowded alleys and its predatory rickshaw riders, Agra is much like any other north Indian city. Also referred to as Agarbana (Paradise) in the epic of Mahabharta, the city houses the finest monuments of the period, which bear testimony to the aura of grandeur. |
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| Ajanta & Ellora Caves |
| Ellora and Ajanta aren't cities, but ancient sites filled with religious carvings and paintings. Ellora is a collection of 34 cave-shrines chiseled out of solid rock between the fourth and ninth centuries. The oldest carvings honor the figures and stories of Buddhism, the middle-period work honors Hinduism and the last phase is devoted to Jainism. The marvel of these hand-carved temples is that they were chiseled out of the hillside from the top down. |
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| Perhaps the most incredible is the immense Kailash Temple, a Hindu shrine twice the size of the Greek Parthenon. It took 800 workers some 150 years to build, and it's clear why. Cave 12 is a three-story domicile that was used as monks' quarters during the seventh century. The monks' beds and pillows were, like everything else, carved out of rock. Don't miss the colonnaded hall of Cave 33, the hall of Cave 10 and the Ravana rock carvings. |
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| Their detail and beauty are astounding. Ajanta is more touristy than Ellora, largely because its caves are considerably older and often even more impressively sculpted. The earliest date to the second century BC, and several of them have retained color in their painted frescoes (all the surfaces of both sites were once painted). Nearly all of the carvings at Ajanta are devoted to Buddhist stories and characters. Pay particular attention to the sculpted wall panels, beautiful facade and court of Cave 19. Recent conservation has restored deteriorating cave paintings and the monuments there. |
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| Allepey |
| With the Arabian Sea on the west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons and fresh water rivers criss crossing it, Alleppey is a district of immense natural beauty. Referred to as the Venice of the East by travelers from across the world, this backwater country is also home to diverse animal and bird life. |
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| Amritsar |
| Literally meaning "holy pool of nectar", home to the Golden Temple, and the spiritual and cultural centre of the Sikh Religion. Amritsar is the most holy city for the Sikh community where the Golden Temple, their most important shrine, influences life. |
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| Economically it’s the showpiece of the prosperity and wealth of Punjab Amritsar is one of the most ancient and fascinating cities of India with historical and religious it is an important seat of Sikh history and culture.. Being the gateway for travelers coming to India on the overland route from central Asia it soon became the centre of various commercial activities. There are various historical and religious sites. The most famous of them all in the Golden Temple |
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| Ahemdabad |
| Often referred to as the ’Manchester of the East’, is situated along the Sabarmati River in the western state of Gujarat. Founded in AD 1411, the city of Ahmedabad was named after its founder Sultan Ahmed Shah. The city became an important business centre after it was annexed by Mughal Emperor Akbar in AD 1572. In 1818, the city was taken over by the British who set up a number of textile mills here. |
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| Aurangabad |
| Aurangabad was an important seat of the Mughal Empire during the Mughal rule in India. The town holds a good number of Mughal architectural marvels making it an important historical destination of Maharashtra. The town is situated on the banks of the Kham River. The medieval monuments, cultural heritage and proximity to the famous world heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora make Aurangabad an increasingly popular city for tourists to visit. |
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| Bikaner |
| This Royal walled city was founded in 1486 AD by the Rathore prince, Rao Bikaji, hence the name Bikaner. Bikaji was son of Rao Jodhaji who had asked his son to establish a kingdom of his own. The challenge was accepted and Bikaji choose the wild country Jangaldesh as his territory and thus the city of Bikaner came into existence. |
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| The city flourished as an important trade centre between Gujarat seaports and West Asian countries. The unbroken line of descendants of Bikaji ruled Bikaner till India got Independence. The city is distinguished for the best riding camels in the world and hence boasts of having one of the largest Camel research and breeding farm in the world Bikaner has many magnificent buildings made of Reddish Pink sandstone that transcends the surrounding barren wilderness. Unlike other cities of Rajasthan, Bikaner has been able to preserve its traditional aura of the medieval era, which makes a visitor come here year after year. |
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| Bangalore |
| Ranking as one of the fastest growing cities in Asia, Bangalore, is a vibrant cosmopolitan city and a major industrial and commercial centre of the country. This “Garden City” has well laid out parks, long avenues of blossoming trees, modern marvels, historical monuments, bustling shopping plazas, a racecourse and golf courses. |
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| With many multinational Computer companies setting up their offices here and the rich technical expertise found in the city it has become known as the "Silicon Valley of India". While in Bangalore, you can’t just afford to miss out on some of the 200 local pubs, serving finest Indian draught beer. Despite the frantic industrial expansion and the increase in the population, Bangalore has managed to maintain its essential old-world appeal. |
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| Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary |
| One of the finest bird Sanctuary in Asia with over 300 species of birds and now a world heritage site. Among the rich fauna are Siberian crane, Cormorant, Painted stork, Pelican, Ibis and Snakebird. Exotic migratory birds flock here as far as Central Asia, Siberia, the Arctic region and China. |
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| Bijapur |
| This city has many interesting Islamic monuments. See the Gol Gumbaz, a huge domed tomb with an amazing whispering gallery (any slight noise on one side of the dome can be heard perfectly on the opposite side and can even echo as many as a dozen times). Visit the museum, the Ibrahim Roza tomb, the citadel and some of the dozens of other mosques and monuments. |
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| Bodhgaya |
| It was in Bodh Gaya that Buddha attained enlightenment under a bodhi tree—which you can still visit. As you might expect, Bodh Gaya has interesting temples, notably the Maha Bodhi, an ornate structure believed to have been built more than two millennia ago. (Much of the original building was destroyed by invaders in the 11th century and rebuilt with assistance from the Burmese. |
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| Chandigarh |
| This city is the capital of two states, Hariyana and Punjab, but what it's known for is impressive modern architecture. Chandigarh was designed by the great French architect Le Corbusier, who was commissioned for the job by the Indian government. The High Court Building is a standout. Less aesthetic but equally interesting is the Rock Garden, which is decorated with castoff items, industrial waste and household junk. It represents 12 years of labor by a single man who built the garden to protest environmental degradation. government in the late 1800s.) You'll also find meditation centers—many offer multiday courses and retreats. |
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| Chennai |
| At the southern tip of India in the state of Tamil Nadu lies the states capital city Chennai, or Madras as it was known earlier. It is also the third largest metropolis in India. Chennai will put you in touch with a different face of India classical, ancient & gentle. Definitely touched by colonialism but not ravaged by wars and intensely aware of its roots and traditions. Chennai was the site of the first settlement of the East India Company. It was founded in 1639, on a piece of land given by the Raja of Chandragiri, the last representative of the Vijayanagar rulers of Hampi. |
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| Coorg |
| The coffee-growing, hilly region in Karnataka, Coorg has steep hills, valleys and streams that are good for trekking and rock climbing. Kodavas (local people) follow a unique and interesting lifestyle and are naturally hospitable people. Many farmhouses offer home-stays to tourists. Talakaveri, in the nearby hills, is the source of the holy river Cauvery, and bathing in it in the month of October is considered sacred. The surrounding forest region has many wild animals. |
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| Darjeeling |
| This pretty resort, built among tea plantations, is one of the cool hill stations where leaders of the British Raj escaped summer heat. The place now attracts Indians and foreign tourists seeking the same natural air-conditioning. |
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| Delhi |
| Delhi, where an empire rose and fell before the dawn of history; where citadels of emperors appeared and disappeared; a city of mysterious eternity whose old ruins proclaim a majestic and imperial past. There have been at least eight cities built in and around modern Delhi, and the old saying that whoever founds a new city at Delhi will lose it has come true every time, most recently for the British who built New Delhi in 1911. Officially two separate cities, the old city of Delhi, which the Mughuls built and lived in, and New Delhi, built by the British and expanded since Independence in 1947, are really two parts of one sprawling metropolis known simply as Delhi. |
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| Deogarh |
| Built in the 1670 AD by Rawat Dwarka Dasji as a family residence, Deogarh castle lies on the borders of Mewar, 80 miles north-east of Udaipur. Its chieftain known as The Rawat was one of sixteen umraos (feudal barons) privileged to wait upon the Maharana of Udaipur, the capital of Mewar such feudal estates, called thikanas were granted by the ruling Maharana to a nobleman either due to blood relationship or for an act of bravery. |
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| The castle stands atop a hill and offers a commanding view of the Aravalli mountain range and the numerous lakes, strewn across the countryside. With its greying battlements, domes, turrets, jharokhas and huge gateways, it is a picturesque sight from the town below. The Mahal also has some exciting rooms to browse through - Sheesh Mahal - the colourful hall of mirrors, is just one of them. Deogarh is also renowned as a school of miniature painting which adorn the personal collection of the present Rawat Sahib. Frescoes of this art form can also be seen on the fort walls. |
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| Dharamshala |
| Set in a thick forest with grand Himalayan peaks looming in the distance, this small town in northern India is best known as the home of the Dalai Lama. Since 1959, when the Buddhist spiritual leader fled Chinese-occupied Tibet, Dharmsala has become a haven for Tibetan exiles and refugees and a frequent destination for Buddhists worldwide. The Dalai Lama himself spends a good part of the year traveling, but Dharmsala remains a stirring, intriguing place. |
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| The upper part of the town, known as McLeod Ganj, is where the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government-in-exile reside. Sometimes called "Little Lhasa," in reference to the Tibetan capital, upper Dharmsala teems with markets (offering excellent handmade Tibetan carpets), craft sellers, restaurants and guesthouses. Monks in oxblood-colored robes stroll amid colorful prayer flags and visit with locals as they walk to and from various monasteries. |
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| Among Dharmsala's attractions are the Dalai Lama's Namgyal Monastery, the Tibetan Children's Village (which houses and educates some 2,000 students) and the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts. The institute stages traditional Tibetan musical and dance performances, culminating in the 10-day Folk Opera Festival in mid April. |
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| Goa |
| Located on the western coast of India in the coastal belt known as Konkan, the state of Goa is a virtual “Tourist Paradise”. In 1510 the charm and the geographical location of Goa attracted the Portuguese to the land. Their aim was to control the spice route from the east and to spread Christianity. St Francis Xavier with his Jesuit missionaries arrived in 1542. |
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| Apart from the Portuguese, Goa has captivated many from the west, the Turks, the British, the French and the Dutch. Having been the meeting point of races, religions and cultures of East and West over the centuries, Goa has a multi-hued and distinctive lifestyle quite different from the rest of India. Besides the natural beauty, the fabulous beaches and sunshine, travelers to Goa love the laid-back, peaceful, warm and friendly nature of the Goan people. After all, more than anywhere else on planet earth, this is a place where people really know how to relax. |
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| Gwalior |
| Steeped in the splendor of its past, the ancient capital of Gwalior has yet made a successful transition into a modern Indian city, vibrant and bustling. A multitude of reigning dynasties, of the great Rajput clans of the Pratiharas, Kacchwahas and Tomars have left indelible etchings of their rule in this city of palaces, temples and monuments. |
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| Hampi |
| Hampi was the capital of the fortified metropolis of Hindu Vijayanagar in the 15th century. The mighty kingdom covered one third of India and was known for its riches, foreign trade and exemplary administration. It was later destroyed by invaders in the 17th century. See the extensive ruins of this former capital of a Hindu kingdom. See the relief carvings and Hindu shrines (still in use). The ruins are spread over a huge area, so wear comfortable shoes. Strike the stone pillars at Vitthala Temple to listen to different musical notes. |
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| Hyderabad |
| The city was founded in 1591 by Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah. Although it was under Muslim rule for centuries, Hyderabad is architecturally different from other Mughal-founded cities. Its best-known landmark is the rectangular Charminar with its four minarets. It's especially memorable at twilight. Built by the fifth sultan of Golconda, this towering city landmark is illuminated to become the centerpiece of an old city straight out of an Arabian fantasy. |
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| Jaipur |
| Jaipur, popularly called the pink city, is the capital of the state of Rajasthan. It is one of the largest city in Rajasthan, built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in 1727 AD, who had the vision to create a meticulously planned city as his capital. The whole city was painted pink in 1876 during the visit of Prince of Wales, later king Edward VII. Today the houses in the old city including the famous Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) are still painted pink. |
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| Jaisalmer |
| This desert fortress is straight out of an Arabian fairy tale, more reminiscent of medieval Afghanistan than 20th-century India. Founded in the 12th century as a staging post for camel trains traveling between India and Central Asia, Jaisalmer is a golden sandstone city with crenellated city walls, a magnificent fortress and a number of exquisitely carved stone and wooden havelis. Seen at sunset from afar, it glows with the luminescence of a mirage. Located at the heart of the great Thar Desert, Jaisalmer offers the visitor an enchanting world of fable, colour, and history. The magnificent wood-and stone-carved mansions and buildings display the love and interest Rajputs had for the fine arts. |
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| Jodhpur |
| Amidst the sand dunes and thorny vegetation of Thar Desert lies the bustling city of Jodhpur, the second largest city in Rajasthan after Jaipur and has a landscape dominated by the massive Meherangarh Fort topping a sheer rocky ridge. A 10 km long wall surrounds the old Jodhpur city with eight gates serving as entrances. |
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| The Maruthal or land of death’ came into life when the Rathores of Kanauj moved in. Rao Jodhaji founded the city of Jodhpur in 1459 AD, The city prospered as it was on the silk route of the 16th century and was host to many travelers. In Jodhpur, the genius of its sculptors comes to life in its exquisite palaces, forts, temples and havelis, which stand testimony to the imperial grandeur. The most alluring part of Jodhpur is the traditional lifestyle, festivity and the smiling people who treasure this former princely state. |
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| Kanyakumari |
| Kanyakumari occupies a unique place among the tourist centers of India. It is one of the important pilgrim centers of India. This is the only place in India where one can enjoy the unique experience of watching the sunset and moonrise simultaneously on a full moon evening. A fine beach landscape with sands of different colors is another interesting aspect of Kanyakumari. |
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| Kanha |
| Kanha is original Kipling country of which he wrote so vividly in his Jungle Book. The same abundance of wild life species exists today in Kanha National Park. |
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| Khajuraho |
| Situated in a beautiful region of hills, lakes and 10th- and 11th-century Chandela Dynasty temples, this town has much to recommend it. But it's the temples and their leave-nothing-to-the-imagination erotic carvings that make it a must-see. (this is a favorite honeymoon spot; the carvings are regarded as educational.) Originally there were 85 temples, but many were destroyed by the British. Today, only 22 are in even fair condition. Be sure not to miss Kandariya Mahadeo and Khajuraho temple, Khajuraho Museum, Lakshman Temple (beautiful carvings of women), the Amorous Couple at Devi Jagdamba Temple, the Vraha Temple (dedicated to the god Shiva) and Parvati Temple. |
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| Kochi |
| Kochi, once visited by King Solomon and the intended destination of Christopher Columbus, is called the Queen of the Arabian Sea. It is one of the finest natural harbors, Kochi earlier known as Cochin, is the oldest European settlement in India. Many influences including Chinese, Arab, Jewish, British, French and Portuguese are contained within its environment. |
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| Kolkata |
| Formerly known as Calcutta, the city is fascinating. Visit the Marble Palace mansion (to see the paintings and statues), the Jain Temple, Dakshineswar Hindu Temple (12 Shiva shrines), Belur Math (a Buddhist monastery), the Victoria Memorial, Dalhousie Square (interesting architecture) and the Nakhoda Mosque. For a spectacular view of the city, climb the Octherlony Monument (218 steps up). Of course, Kolkata is the home of Mother Teresa's Ashram Home of Children—a visit there can be an emotional and enlightening experience. Skip the zoo, but spend time in the Maidan (a market). The Indian Museum is a 19th-century British institution with collections of ancient art and relics beginning from India's Buddhist era. |
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| As in many large Indian cities, Kolkata has a fascinating train station, which is worth a visit even if you're not taking a train. A microcosm of Indian life, Howrah Station is filled with thousands of people eating, sleeping and even living in its interiors. Outside the station is one of the city's most recognized structures—the massive steel Howrah Bridge across the Hooghly River. If the volume of people in the station doesn't impress you, the mass movement of people across the bridge will. A less modern form of transportation is readily available in Kolkata—the hand-pulled rickshaw. A few years back the Indian government tried to take them off the streets, but relented in the face of opposition from the pullers themselves. |
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| Khimsar |
| Perched on the edge on the great Thar Desert in the Heart of Rural India, the unique fort at Khimsar offers a wide range of Experiences. The Battle scarred walls and turrets remained one of the Glorious past. The initial Construction began in 1523 AD, the family moved in during the 18th Century When a new 'Zenana' (Ladies Wing) was constructed. Thakur Onkar Singh built a regal wing for himself in 1940s.Today the khimsar fort ranks high amongst the premier classified heritage hotels of India. |
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| Kumarakom |
| Bordered by the lofty Western Ghats on the east and the Vembanad Lake and paddy fields of Kuttanad on the west, Kottayam is a land of unique characteristics, panoramic backwater stretches, lush paddy fields, highlands and extensive rubber plantations. Late afternoon take a walking tour of the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, situated on the banks of the Vembanand Lake is known for its varied avian population. |
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| Kovalam |
| The internationally renowned beach, which is a strip of golden land lying side by side with the serene blue waters of Arabian sea and rich greenery of the coconut groves, has been developed into an integrated seaside resort. |
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| Kovalam consists of three consecutive crescent shaped beaches, a massive rocky promontory on the beach has created a beautiful bay of calm waters ideal for sea bathing. There are numerous bars and cafes lined up on the shore side and you can enjoy a variety of fresh seafood or continental cuisine. |
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| Little Ran Of Kutch - Gujrat |
| This playfully named place is a desert wildlife area where you'll see gazelles, blackbucks, wild asses, a wide variety of birds and other animals. |
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| Leh & Ladhakh |
| Ladakh is the name of the eastern two-thirds of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It's in a beautiful Himalayan range, characterized by a desolate, moonlike landscape and snowy peaks (it's inaccessible by road during winter). Ladakh is extremely dry—with rainfall levels as low as in the Sahara—because the mountains keep clouds out. In some ways, it's more purely Tibetan than the Tibet of today. When Tibet was swallowed by China in the 1950s, the Chinese did their best to dilute Tibetan culture, but Ladakh's Tibetans have carried their traditions forward unimpeded. That's not to say Ladakh is untouched by outside influences. |
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| The area has been open to tourists since the mid 1970s, and substantial changes have occurred. There are still sections, however, that seem to have remained unchanged for centuries. Some of the treks through the area include white-water rafting. As the sky-high (11,499 ft/3,505 m) capital of Ladakh, Leh is where most travelers stay while visiting area monasteries. It's a fun town to walk about—you may see sidewalk magicians, monks chanting, elderly women spinning prayer wheels and Tibetan refugees selling wares in the market. Leh Palace, which resembles Tibet's Potala, is in such disrepair that it's not worth going inside, but the view from the entrance is quite grand. The Leh Gompa (a gompa is a monastery) is in good shape, has interesting artifacts and is within walking distance of town. Alchi is the oldest monastery accessible by public transportation from Leh. |
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| Lucknow |
| Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, extends along the banks of the River Gomti. The creator of Lucknow as it is today was Nawab Asaf ud Daula. The city became known as a centre for Urdu poetry and courtly diction, and reached its acme during the reign of Wajid Ali Shah who was a connoisseur of music and poetry. |
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| Today, the city is dotted with remnants of its rich historic past. Lucknow is also known for its elaborate cuisine and Chikankaari or exquisite shadow-work embroidery on fine muslin cloth. |
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| Mandawa |
| Mandawa Castle, is a perfect example of the splendour amongst the sleepy storybook town possess some of the worlds best colour frescoes covering various subjects, ranging from the religious to the erotic; from copies of popular English prints to witty social satire, rendered in the inimitable style of the local artist. |
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| Castle Mandawa was built in the year 1755 and is approachable through two gateways mounted with cannons. Several narrow staircases and courtyards connect the dinning room with the rest of the rooms, which were added to the palace over the centuries. A terrace offers a view over the entire town. Now converted into a charming heritage hotel. |
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| Mahabaleshwar |
| A hill station set at an altitude of 4,500 ft/1375 m amongst the Western Ghats. Walks and drives through the terraced hills and green valleys offer a relief from the busy life of cities. There are many marked places to view mountains, waterfalls and streams. Locally grown and processed strawberries, other fruits, juices and jams are available at special shops en route. |
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| Madurai |
| Nestled down near the southern tip of India, this 2,500-year-old city is famous for its Hindu and Tamil cultural attractions. A must-see is the impressive multitowered Sri Meenakshi Temple built in 1560. Actually, you can't possibly ignore it: The temple is covered with brightly painted sculptures and statues, and the effect is practically psychedelic. You can climb a couple of the towers for a good view of the entire complex. |
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| Make sure you have plenty of film - the temples are very photogenic. You can observe Hindu devotees bathing in the Tank of Golden Lilies and see the Hall of 1,000 Pillars (all but the inner sanctum is open to non-Hindus). In ancient times, the area around the tank was the meeting place for the academy of poets, who are said to have evaluated works of literature by throwing them into the tank - the ones that floated were the only ones deemed worthy of consideration. Other temples are Koodal Alagar, where Vishnu is depicted in three forms, and Mariamman Teppakkulam, a small temple set in a large tank. Also visit the Tirumala Nayak Palace for its stucco arches and domes. |
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| Mararikulam |
| Somewhere around the middle section of Keralas coast, the Indian Ocean finally realises that it has now become the Arabian Sea. The result of this personality change is a splendid azure colour, quite distinctive, with frothy whitecaps and a translucent, pearl-like quality. The sands that fringe this coastline for endless miles are themselves distinctive, deep and rich and fine, in a shade closer to ocher than gold The village of Mararikulam is tucked away behind a line of dense palms that rise like a sudden rampart of green out of the sands. Like all villages, it has evolved naturally, in picturesque disorder. |
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| Mathura |
| Mathura is an area intimately connected with the life of Krishna and considered to be amongst the holiest of pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Virtually every site in Mathura is associated with legends related to Krishna. The Dwarkadeesh temple in Mathura is a modern temple. The Gita Mandir is located on the Mathura Brindavan road. Gokul near Mathura, is where Krishna was raised; Mahaban is said to be the seat of the palace of Nanda, Krishnas foster father. Barsana is said to be the original home of Radha. |
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| Matheran |
| Matheran is a hill station 2,625 ft/800 m high, on the mountains of Sahyadri. A ban on motor vehicles there makes it a tranquil place. A heritage train chugs up the 16 mi/26 km route from the foothills. Many activities such as trekking, riding and walking offer panoramic views of mountains, sunsets, villages and towns. |
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| Mount Abu |
| The Raj period approached it as a relaxation place to rewind along with the royalties and semi royalties. The place sways in an interesting contrast of British style bungalows, the holiday lodges of the royals (Thikhana) along with the presence of the various communities of the tribals located amidst the thick lush of the forest on the hills surrounding the region. |
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| The flora and fauna enjoys the adulation of the tourist to the fullest. Among the flourishing ranges is the highest point of the Aravalli is the Gurushikhar with a vast sanctuary that shelters a number of species like langur, wild boars, Sambar, leopards and many more along with a number of flowering trees thus enhancing the whole scenario. This glorious ambience suited mainly to the likes of sages and tribals and both made a great impact in the history of the region. The prime attraction here includes Dilwara Temples, Gomukh Temples, Nakki Lake and sunset point |
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| Munnar |
| Breath taking beauty and a haven of peace and tranquility make Munnar one of the most idyllic tourist destinations in Kerala. Set at an altitude of 6000 ft, Munnar was the favored summer resort of the British rulers in the colonial days. Unending expanse of tea plantations, pristine valleys and mountains, exotic species of flora and fauna in its wild sanctuaries and forests, aroma of spice scented cool air, Munnar has all these and more. |
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Mumbai
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| Mumbai - or Bombay, as it was known until 1997—remains India's city of dreams. It is so dynamic that immigrants still flock there in hopes of becoming successful entrepreneurs. Despite its rich heritage and friendly citizens, Mumbai can overwhelm foreigners with the sheer headcount. |
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| Built largely by the British around one of the best-protected natural harbors in the world, Mumbai is India's business center and one of the most important commercial hubs between Singapore and Europe. It generates more than a third of India's gross national product, and half of the country's foreign trade moves through this busy seaport on the Arabian Sea. Mumbai also is home to the country's prolific Bollywood film industry, which cranks out more feature films than any place in the world. |
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Mysore
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| Mysore, or Mahishur as it was called then, traces its history back to the mythical past, when Goddess Chamundeshwari of Chamundi Hills killed the wicked buffalo-headed demon, Mahishasura. Mysore Dussehra is the celebration of this victory of good over evil. Mysore also has associations with the Mahabharata and King Ashoka of the 3rd century B.C. Mysore is also known as the city of palace. For centuries Mysore has been visited for sandalwood and silk. |
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| The Mysore palace is often compared with the Buckingham palace in England. The St. Philomenas Church and the Mysore Dussehra are added attraction to this place. Vrindavan Gardens on the KRS dam is one of the most visited gardens in India. The musical fountains here have fascinated not only visitors and have been taken on silver screen too. |
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Ooty
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| Known locally as Ooty, this was the most popular hill station in south India for colonial officials on summer holiday. (It remains a popular tourist destination and is a common location for Indian feature films). Attractions include the Ooty Club, St. Stephen's Church (intriguing headstones in the cemetery) and the Government Botanical Gardens (more than 2,000 species of plants). |
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Puskhar
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| Pushkar is an ancient city and has seen history being made since the Ramayana period. The account of this city can be found in the 4th century writings of the Chinese traveler Fa-Hien and also in the scripts written during the era of Muslim invasions. |
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| The city is considered by Hindus to be one of the most sacred places in India and has, perhaps, the only existing temple in Asia, dedicated to Lord Brahma. Life in the city is very much related to the Pushkar Lake. Mythology says that this ancient lake was formed when a lotus flower fell in the valley, from the hands Brahma. The famous Pushkar fair is held every year on the Kartik Purnima day. This fair is famous as a bazaar for the animals particularly the camels. But the folk dancers and the folk musicians add traditional colour in the fair, which gives a new leash of life to the town |
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Pondicherry
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| A hint of the Riviera in the subcontinent, this former French colonial city along the Bay of Bengal didn't come under Indian rule until 1954. You can still hear a fair bit of French being spoken as you stroll along its remaining seaside villas and cobblestone streets. The city is really two towns in one: La Ville Blanche, the colonials' former playground, and La Ville Noire, the crowded inland area where the native Indian population was forced to live. |
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| The distinctions have lost much of their meaning, but La Ville Blanche still feels more European. Some of the notable colonial remains include the Hotel de Ville (city hall), from the 1700s, and the Church of Notre Dame, a century older. There's also a pleasant botanical garden and the Pondicherry Museum, which houses relics from the colonial era. (Antiques shops around town have a wonderful selection of items you can purchase.) The other side of town, full of markets and peddlers, feels more robust and authentically Indian. Pondicherry has two noteworthy institutions from a wholly different legacy. |
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| Sri Aurobindo Ashram was built by the followers of Sri Aurobindo, a prophet and philosopher who went to the city in 1910. Auroville, a kind of utopian commune inhabited by people of diverse nationalities, was the idea of a French woman who chose Sri Aurobindo as her guru. |
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| Ranthambore |
| The Ranthambore Park is set between the Aravalli and Vindhya ranges. Its deciduous forests were once a part of the magnificent jungles of Central India. Ranthambhore is a heritage site due to the picturesque ruins that dot the park. There are lake palaces, chhatris, old fortifications and a majestic 1,000-year-old fort overlooking the park. |
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| Noted for daylight Tiger sightings the reserve is dynamic in the diversity and density of fauna it supports, due to conservation efforts, the tiger population has stabilized, tigers can be spotted at their normal pursuits hunting and taking care of their young ones. |
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| Rishikesh |
| The gateway to the Garhwal Himalaya and one of the holiest towns in India, Rishikesh has attracted poets, artists and mystics for thousands of years. Hindus regard it as highly as Muslims regard Mecca. Meat and alcohol are forbidden, and the inhabitants display a public air of sanctimony. The Beatles went to Rishikesh in the 1960s and sat at the feet of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the guru whose Transcendental Meditation Center still markets his spiritual programs with jarring capitalist enterprise each year. |
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| Pilgrims clad in loincloths tread the town's dusty streets or pitch camp on the banks of the sacred Ganges, which sweeps majestically through the town and out into the great Indian plains. Head for Triveni Ghat to watch pilgrims participate in the daily worship ritual known as Aarti. About 30 kms outside of town is Ananda, a luxurious Western-style spa housed in what was once a British viceroy's hilltop estate. |
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| Shimla |
| One of the most popular hill Resorts of the North. The town is situated at an altitude of 6810 ft, initially chosen as a sanatorium for invalid European officers, but soon developed into a big hill town and then became the summer capital of the country. Spread across 12 kms along a ridge that overlooks terraced hillsides and cultivations, Shimla is magnificently robed in dense forests of oak and pine, fur and rhododendron, and it is best to travel here on the slow train from Kalka. Shimla also is a convenient base for variety of adventure sports. |
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| Srinagar |
| Srinagar, at an altitude of 5,800 ft/1,800 m, is the capital of the troubled region of Kashmir. Once a favored vacation spot, Srinagar today suffers frequent attacks by militants that have badly crippled businesses, public institutions and the daily lives of the local residents. In less difficult times, Srinagar has been known for its houseboat vacations on Dal Lake and Nagin Lake, which arose after the local maharajah forbade foreigners to own land. The British, who went there to escape the summer heat, built floating castles instead. |
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| Those accommodations range from dark, moldy, claustrophobic quarters to masterpieces of carved wood, Oriental carpeting and fine furnishings. Most boats contain two or three bedrooms, a shared dining room, living room, porch and sunroof. Some, particularly those on Nagin Lake (which is farther from town), have magnificent views of the mountains. Sellers paddle from boat to boat, peddling everything you could want, and plenty you don't want: cold drinks, fruit, nuts, fresh flowers, film, baked goods, papier-mache boxes, woolen shawls, silk carpets, leather goods, money-changing services and on and on. |
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| Thekkady |
| Thekkady is tucked amidst lush green tea gardens, it is one of the best places to see tea, coffee and spice gardens. Adjacent is the Periyar wild Life Sanctuary with its unsullied grasslands and "Blue Mountains". |
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| A boat ride in the lake running through the sanctuary provides an opportunity to watch wild animals such as Elephants, Deer and scores of Water Birds. A guided walk through the serene forest with beautiful birds and scent of the woods is a wonderful and invigorating experience. |
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| Trivandrum |
| Located at the southwestern tip of India, Trivandrum is the capital of Kerala is and is located on the southern tip of India, swept by the Arabian Sea to the west. A long palm fringed shoreline, with internationally renowned beaches, historic monuments, backwater stretches and a rich cultural heritage make this district a much sought after tourist destination. Slow paced and laid back city as it may seem to an outsider, it is the political hub of Kerala. |
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| Tirupati |
| The town of Tirupati is one of the most ancient and spectacular places of pilgrimage in India. It is situated in the Chittoor district in southern Andhra Pradesh. The town owes its existence to the sacred temple of Lord Sri Venkateswara situated on the Tirumala Hill adjoining it. |
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| With a history that dates back to over twelve centuries, the temple is the jewel in the crown of ancient places of worship in southern India. The sacred temple of Sri Venkateswara is located on the seventh peak, Venkatadri (Venkata Hill), and lies on the southern banks of Sri Swami Pushkarini. There are several legends associated with the manifestation of the Lord in Tirumala. |
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| Udaipur |
| Udaipur is a fascinating blend of sights, sound and experiences. Right from the medieval times, the city has been an inspiration for poets, painters and writers. Founded in 1559 and named after Maharana Udai Singh. |
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| According to legend, the Maharana was out hunting one day when he met a holy man meditating on a hill overlooking the Lake Pichola. The hermit blessed the Maharana and told him to built a palace at that very spot, as it would be well protected. The Maharana followed the holy mans advice and Udaipur came into being. |
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| Varanasi |
Varanasi: formerly known as Kashi, the city that illuminates. The religious capital of Hinduism, Varanasi is one of the worlds’ most ancient cities and the oldest living city in India. The present name is derived from the fact that the city is at the confluence of the rivers Varuna & Asi. Providing the backdrop is an incredible array of temples and ancient buildings, several of them standing at odd angles because their foundations have been eroded unevenly by flood waters.
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| There are 2,000 temples and shrines in Varanasi, but the holiest, Vishvanatha, is closed to non-Hindus. Nonetheless, the occupants of the house across the street supplement their income by letting tourists look in from above, and a viewing hole has been made in the wall at the back of the temple. The Durga Temple, which can be visited, is teeming with monkeys (hold onto your valuables). There's also a wonderful temple devoted to the Ramayana, a Hindu tale of love and adventure. The temple's walls tell the story, and in back there's a gallery of mechanically animated displays. There's also a lovely temple and garden on the university campus. Farther downstream on the eastern bank of the Ganges is the Ram Nagar Fort. It isn't one of the country's best, but it does have a fascinating, if gruesome, collection of weapons (from huge serrated swords to machine guns to rhino-skin shields). |
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