Tourist Places to see in Dehradun

Robber’s Cave: Also known as GachchuPani, situated at a distance of 8 km away from Dehradun. Robber’s cave is one of the beautiful picnic spot. It display here one of nature’s strange phenomena; a stream of water initially goes underground and reappears again after a few meters away. This peaceful and serene cave is surrounded by hills and is a beautiful getaway for those looking for quiet and peace of the hills and springs.

Sahastradhara:The meaning of name Sahastradhara means ‘‘the site of ‘thousand springs’ . Sahastradhara is situated near Rajpur Village, which is about 16 km away from Dehradun, it is one of the very popular picnic spot. The main attraction of this place is during rainy season, when there is plenty of water in the springs. The water of sulphur spring is assumed to have exceptional medicinal value that can help cure skin ailments and have miraculous effects on many diseases. The dripping caves and a bath in the Baldi River near the spring believe to rejuvenate the soul and body.

Tapkeshwar Temple: Tapkeshwar temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and an ancient place of worship of Lord Shiva. The annual fair held during Shiva Ratri is the major attraction here. It is situated 8 km away from Dehradun, on the banks of a stream, in Garhi Cant. The temple is associated with legends from the Mahabharata.

The Rajaji National Park: It is named after Late Shri C.Rajgoplalachari the last Governor General of India, popularly known as Rajaji. Rajaji National Park was founded in 1966 and spreads over an area of 820.42 sq.kms, the park with it’s magnificent ecosystem, is nestled in the lush valley of Shivalik ranges. It represents the flora of several zones of the reverine, forest, scrub land and grassy pasture lands broad leaf mixed forest, chirpine forest.This National Park is home to many important species of animals, birds and plants. There are 315 of avi-fauna and 23 species of mammals. The main attraction of the park is the elephant population. It is one of the major tourist spots near Dehradun, situated at a distance of 23 km away from Dehradun.

Forest Research Institute: one of the famous institutes in Dehradun, this is one of the interesting place to visit in Dehradun. The botanical garden and museum are the chief attractions. Forest Research Institute is established as Imperial in 1906, Forest Research Institute (FRI) Dehradun is a premier institution under the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE). Set in the sylvan surroundings of Doon Valley, the Forest Research Institute is a proud testimony to the vision of foresters, foresight and administrators of long ago.

Malsi Deer Park: Malsi Deer Park is refuge for deer is a beautiful forest and is very popular as a picnic spot. It is recently developed picnic spot cum mini zoological park on Mussoorie Road, situated approximately 9 km away from Dehradun. This is one of the perfect places for refreshment as well as for having a great time with your family. Malsi Deer Park is a miniature zoological park, comprising a children`s park, natural surroundings, encased within splendid, and building up Dehradun`s nature tourism to the utmost reachable position.

Dakpatthar: It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Dehradun. This place is noted for the magnificent scenic tourist beauty surrounding it in the western Doon Valley. Dakpathar has come forward as a lending esteem to the touring guidance of nature tourism in Dehradun, and as a brilliant tourist spot under the Yamuna Hydel Scheme.

Lachhiwala: 3 Kms from Doiwala and 22 Kms away from Dehradun, It is located on the Hardwar/Rishikesh road is Lachhiwala. The blissful and serene spot is famous for its picnic spots. The place also provides accommodation to all the tourists in the Forest Rest House nestled all over the greenery.

Near By Tourist  Attraction in Dehradun

Chakrata : Chakrata is situated approximately 98 km from Dehradun. It is the perfect destination for trekkers and nature lovers.Chakrata is another nearby hill station, but it is a good 80 km away. Paonta Sahib is a pilgrimage place for Sikhs with a historic Gurudwara on the banks of the Yamuna.

Harkidun : Har ki Doon Trek is situated in the Western Garhwal Himalayas, at the base of Fateh Parvat. This cradle shaped valley, South-east of Jaundar glacier is surrounded by dense forests of pine, deodar and other coniferous trees. It is totally covered by a blanket of blue and purple flowers. The surrounding forest is rich in wild life and exotic birds and forms part of the Govind Wildlife Sanctuary & National Park. The main snow clad peaks visible from here are Swarga-Rohini, Bandarpunch and Kala Nag.

Mussoorie : Mussoorie, ‘Queen of Hills’, is a scenic town situated in Uttaranchal – at a distance of mere 35 km from the capital city of Dehradun and 290 km from delhi by road. The pine-covered slopes of the hill resort, combined with the exquisite views of the surrounding snow-clad mountains, make it one of the popular weekend getaways. Mussoorie is one the beautiful hill stations in India and the most frequently visited.

Dhanaulti : Dhanaulti is 325 km from Delhi (an 8-9 hour drive) and 25 km from Mussoorie.Situated amidst misty and dreamy surroundings, in the Garhwal Hiils, is the pictorial town of Dhanaulti. The lush greenery, comprising of soaring tress of deodar, rhododendron and oak, makes the hill station look like a painting created by Almighty himself. Dhanaulti Hills is one of those places with beauty that remains etched in your memory forever.

Haridwar : One of the few places in India that seem to be infused with the holy spirit, Haridwar lies at the foot of the Himalayas. It stands sprawled over the west bank of Ganges, in which one dip is said to wash away all the sins of a person. Delhi to Haridwaris 220 km and takes about 6 hrs by road.

Rishikesh : Located amidst the reaches of the lower Himalayas, Rishikesh is a small town that enchants its visitors. It is located hardly 25 km from the holy city of Haridwar and is regarded as the Gateway to the Char Dhams.Rishikesh is easily accessible by bus from Delhi. It is 6 hours (250 kms) journey.

Dehradun – Best Time to Visit

The hill resort of Dehradun is ideally located amongst the hills and experiences moderately pleasant climate throughout the year. The temperature hovers between 44.5°C and 16.7°C in the summers. While in the Winters Dehradun grows colder with the temperature varying between 23.6°C and 5.4°C. Dehradun is flocked by tourists all through the year. In summers it is the retreat from the plains and in winters it is the snow-time! You can enjoy the snow in the Garhwal Himalayas during November/December. April to July is the ideal time for a trip to the Doon valley and skip the heat and the dust of the Indian summer in the hill resort of Dehradun.

How to Reach Dehradun

By Air: The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant airport, 25 km away, which is linked with flights to Delhi.
By Rail: An excellent rail network connects Dehradun to other important cities like Delhi, Mussoorie, Mumbai, Varanasi, Lucknow, and Kolkata.
By Road: Well-connected by an extensive network of roads, Dehradun has regular bus services to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Agra, Jaipur, and Lucknow. Renowned tourist places of Uttaranchal like Haridwar, Rishikesh, Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Rajaji National Park are also connected by road to Dehradun.

Facts & Figures About Deharadun

Area : 3088.00 sq. kms
Latitude : 30.19° N
Longitude : 78.04° E
Temperature : Max.: 27.8 °C; Min.: 13.3 °C
Average Rainfall : 2073.3 mm
Forest Land : 2200.56 sq. km.
Population : 1025680 (2001 census)
Population Density : 332 per sq. kms.
Literacy Rate : 69.50%
No. of Tehsils : 4
No. of Villages : 764
STD Code : 0135

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Delhi serves as the seat of the Government of the National Capital Territory of New Delhi and the Government of India.

The leading 20th century British architect Edwin Lutyens initially planned the city. New Delhi is an international metropolis having recreational facilities and with excellent tourist spots. One of the remarkable features of Delhi is the extent of greenery all over. New Delhi is one of the dream cities for its visitors looking for various items of handicrafts, not only the rich artistic crafts of its own craftsmen but also of craftsmen from all over the country. New Delhi offers attractions to the visitor and a multitude of interesting places.

Laid out by British architect Edwin Lutyens, the Indian capital is a striking modern metropolis. A gracious contrast to Old Delhi’s winding streets, the grand avenues and stately buildings of New Delhi are rich with history and culture, from Gandhi’s Delhi home (and the site of his assassination) to the tomb of Humayun, a complex of Mughal buildings reminiscent of the Taj Mahal. Chaotic traffic is best left to the locals. Negotiate a good price for taxis or travel on the new Delhi Metro. There are several places to explore, see and visit in New Delhi.

Places to see In delhi

Red Fort or Lal Quila
The Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, laid down the foundation of Red Fort in 1639 and got it done in 1648. Red Fort is built with red stone and that is how the fort got its name as Red Fort. The total area of the fort is about 2.41 km and the shape of the fort is octagonal. A wide moat that was originally connected with theYamuna River surrounds the fort. Lahori Gate is the main entrance to the Lal Quila. Some of the main buildings in the fort are: Naubat Khana (music house), the Hamam (the bathroom set), Moti Masjid (pearl mosque), Diwan-i-Am (hall of public audience), Diwan-i-Khas (hall of selective audience), Mumtaz Mahal (one of the main palaces). After India got its independence, the Prime Minister of India hoisted the National Flag at the Red Fort every year on 15th of August. The Red Fort is the center of attraction that offers diversity to its visitors. It is a place must see by all tourists visiting Delhi.

Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar is named after Qutab-ud-din Aibak. He is the first Muslim ruler of the South Asia. This world heritage site is the tallest brick tower in the world, built in 1193 AD. It is one of the first achievements of the Indo-Islamic architecture. Qutub Minar is located in Mehrauli, South of Delhi. This tower is 72.5 meters tall with 399 steps towards the top and is covered with engraved verses from the Quran. The top floor is 2.75 meters wide and the base is 14.3 meters wide. He ruled initially from Lahore and later moved the capital to Delhi; while visiting this Minar, do not miss the nearby Iron Pillar. Your trip to Qutub Minar will be one of the fascinating trip.You will immensely enjoy the tour of this world heritage site monument.

Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantaris a masterpiece of Indian architecture which shows the scientific acumen of ancient India and a complex of astronomical instruments of stone and marble built in 1710 A.D by Sawai Jia Singh II of Jaipur around 3 centuries ago and is situated in the heart of Delhi that Parliament Street, close to Connaught Place. There is also a similar structure in Jaipur as well. It has always been an attraction for the architects, scientists and historians from all over the world. This is one of the popular tourist site to explore place. This structure consists of fourteen geometric devices used for forecasting weather changes, measuring time, finding extraterrestrial altitude and predicting behavior of planets

Lotus Temple
This is remarkable architectures of Bahai faith of Worship. It is located at Kalkaji in South Delhi. The shape of temple is in the form of lotus, due to it’s shape the temple is called Lotus Temple. Lotus is a symbol of purity, peace, immortality and love, due to all these specialty of Lotus flower makes the flower an important icon in Indian culture and society. Lotus Temple was opened to public in December 1986. This temple is so popular that it is one of the most visited places in the world. Atmosphere inside the temple is quiet and serene.

ISKCON Temple
Temples in Delhi are renowned both for its historic connection as well as religious fervor. The interior walls have been decorated with aesthetic works of Russian artists representing the different phases of life of various deities like Sita-Ram and Radha-Krishan. The main attractions are its temple museum and the central prayer hall. The birth of Lord Krishna is known as the festival of Janmashtmi, which is falls in the month of August or September. The festival of Janmashtmi is celebrated in the ISKCON temple premises on a large scale, during which the enthusiasm of the devotees and in the temple are religious activities at their highest level. On Janmashtmi thousands of devotees visit the temple and the atmosphere of joyous celebration is truly exhilarating.

India Gate
You have to visit India Gate, the famous landmark of New Delhi, India. It is one of the largest war memorials in India and commemorates the members of the former British Indian Army who laid their lives fighting for the Indian Empire in World War I and the Afghan Wars. The foundation stone for India Gate was laid in 1921 by the Duke of Connaught and was completed in 1931. This enormous structure was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens. After India’s independence, India Gate became the site of the Indian Army’s tomb of the unknown soldier, known as the Amar Jawan Jyoti. The 42 meter high archway is made of red stone and has the name “INDIA” written on both sides. More than 70,000 names of soldiers are also inscribed on the arch. The archway is located on the Rajpath in New Delhi. This monument is surrounded by lawns, children’s park and a boat club. Locals and tourists gather near the India Gate and spend their evenings in leisure.

Akshardham Temple
This 100 acres of sprawling Hindu temple is visited by thousands of people every day. Within this temple, under the central dome, the statue of Bhagwan Swaminarayan is erected, which is 11-foot high. This statue is surrounded by other similar statues of the gurus of the sect. This is a popular tourist spot. The temple was inaugurated in 2005. You can enjoy programmes in the IMAX theater as well as the musical fountain along with Swaminarayan temple in this Akshardham complex in Delhi.

Near By Delhi

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
Located at the distance of 180 kms from New Delhi Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is suitable for outing at the weekends. If you love adventure Bharatpur, the pride of Rajasthan, is the perfect place to go if you love to watch exotic birds frolicking away in their natural habitat. The sanctuary boasts of the title of a World Heritage Site.

Dehradun
Dehradun, being the capital city of Uttaranchal, is visited by many people.Dehradun, also known as the Doon Valley, is situated in the state of Uttaranchal. Lying at the foothills of the Shivalik ranges in India, the city is said to have been founded by Guru Dronacharya (as per the Hindu Epic of Mahabharata). Delhi to Dehradun is 245 km and takes about 6 hrs by road.

Mussoorie
Mussoorie, ‘Queen of Hills’, is a scenic town situated in Uttaranchal – at a distance of mere 35 km from the capital city of Dehradun and  290 km from delhi  by road. The pine-covered slopes of the hill resort, combined with the exquisite views of the surrounding snow-clad mountains, make it one of the popular weekend getaways. Mussoorie is one the beautiful hill stations in India and the most frequently visited.

Dhanaulti
Dhanaulti is 325 km from Delhi (an 8-9 hour drive) and 25 km from Mussoorie.Situated amidst misty and dreamy surroundings, in the Garhwal Hiils, is the pictorial town of Dhanaulti. The lush greenery, comprising of soaring tress of deodar, rhododendron and oak, makes the hill station look like a painting created by Almighty himself. Dhanaulti Hills is one of those places with beauty that remains etched in your memory forever.

Haridwar
One of the few places in India that seem to be infused with the holy spirit, Haridwar lies at the foot of the Himalayas. It stands sprawled over the west bank of Ganges, in which one dip is said to wash away all the sins of a person. Delhi to Haridwaris 220 km and takes about 6 hrs by road.

Rishikesh
Located amidst the reaches of the lower Himalayas, Rishikesh is a small town that enchants its visitors. It is located hardly 25 km from the holy city of Haridwar and is regarded as the Gateway to the Char Dhams.Rishikesh is easily accessible by bus from Delhi. It is 6 hours (250 kms) journey.

Corbett National Park
Corbett is situated about 290 km northeast of Delhi, in Uttaranchal province. Jim Corbett National Park is one of the most popular protected areas of India. Located in the state of Uttaranchal, at the foothills of Himalayas, the national park has its inception dating back to the year 1936.

Nainital
Nainital : (Uttaranchal)-320 kms North-East of Delhi. Nainital, the beloved of the British, is blessed with scenic natural splendor. Nainital – the mere mention of the name brings the thought of cool breezes, mesmerizing locales, snow-capped mountains and serene lakes. Nestled amidst the hills in Uttaranchal, the hill station has an altitude of around 1900m.

Shimla
Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the most popular hill stations in India. Perched at an altitude of approximately 2100 m above sea level, at the foothills of Shivalik, this quaint little town boasts of striking beauty.

How to reach delhi

AIR : Delhi is well connected with domestic and international flights, to all the major cities within and outside India. Almost all the major airlines have their flights operating from Indira Gandhi International Airport of New Delhi. As mentioned, Delhi is connected to all the major cities in the world through Airways. Regular flights are available to almost all the European capitals and cities of prominence. Delhi is also well connected to the rest of India with domestic flights. Delhi has two airports to cater the needs of commuters, Indira Gandhi International Airport and Palam Domestic Airport.

RAIL : Delhi is connected to all the major cities of India through broad gauge as well as meter gauge railway tracks. Direct trains are available to Delhi from nearly all the major tourist points. Make it a point to book tickets in advance, as there is heavy rush round the year.

Road :Being the capital city of India, Delhi is connected to the rest of India through well-maintained, 8/6-laned expressways. Various State transportation corporation buses ply to and from the city. The major service providers are Himachal, Utter Pradesh, Uttaranchal, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan Roadways corporations. Besides Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) also ply inter-state buses. Moreover DTC also has a biweekly service to Pakistan. This bus connects Delhi with its sister city Lahore.

Local transport :Buses One of the cheapest modes of transport in Delhi consists of the local buses. Taxis are easily available in Delhi for hiring purposes. Auto Rickshaws fall in between taxis and buses. Radio Cabs facility is also available in delhi now.

Delhi Metro
The local transportation of Delhi boasts of the relatively introduced Delhi Metro. Metro has still not reached all the parts of Delhi but it is under construction and some of the routes have been completed and are already operational. The fare of Metro is quite reasonable and the journey amounts to a pleasurable experience.

Facts about delhi

Area: 1,483 sq km
Population : 9.4 million
Main Languages : Hindi, Urdu, English & Punjabi
Telephone area code : 011
Best time to visit : October to March
Weather : Summers are hot with the temperature rising up to 45 oC and the winters are also quite cold with temperature dropping as low as 5 oC.

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Find Hotels In Gwalior

The strategically important fort at Gwalior dominates the city and for centuries it controlled one of the major routes between north and south India. Its history goes back to 2000 years, with rock inscriptions from the 5th century still to be found. From the 12th century control of the fort and surrounding area passed through a succession of Muslim, Tomar Rajput, Afghan, Mughal and finally Maratha rulers. During the 12th century Qutb-ud-din Aibak was the first ruler to hold it but eventually the Tomars took possession. It was under Man Singh who came to power in 1486 that many of the great battlements and interior palaces were built. After a short period of control by Lodhis, the first Mughal emperor took over the fort, and described it as a “Pearl among the fortresses of Hind”. During the collapse of Mughal empire, the Scindia line of Marathas conquered the area in 1754.  The British took control of it during the Maratha wars and held it for 30 years after capturing the Rani of Jhansi within its walls in 1858.

Place To See In Gwalior

Gwalior Fort : The city’s most renowned landmark  Positioned at a height of 100m above the main town of Gwalior around 3 kms in length, this staggering citadel dominates the skyline of the place and is acknowledged as the most impregnable fort in the whole of Central and Northern India. The fort was built by Raja Man Singh Tomar as a token of love for his wife, in the 15th century,The great Mughal Emperor Babur reputedly quote it as, “The pearl in the necklace of the forts of Hind”.  The fort is girdled by sandstone walls and stretches over an area of 3 sq km. It houses three temples, six palaces and a large number of water tanks. Among the temples are the beautifuly adorned ‘Sas Bahu Ka Mandir’, Sikh Gurudwara, Jain Temple which has been also been praised as a mosque and the Teli-ka-Mandir. The massive fortress of the Gwalior fort signifies the manifold dynasties of Mughals, Tomars, Britishers and Scindias.This fort have seen the the life of the Buddhist saint Lord Buddha and anecdotes related to the spread of Buddhism. The Chinese dragons that have been crafted at the hilt of the pillars depicts the mutual trade between China and India.

Tansen’s Tomb : The father of Hindustani classical music and one of the nine jewels of Akbar’s court, legendary singer Tansen is buried in Gwalior. Built in the memory of Tansen,the great musician during the time of Mughal. This tomb is situated near the tomb of Saint Hazrat Ghaus and is a part of Gwalior’s cultural heritage .The headstone is surrounded by beautiful gardens on all its sides. Apart from being an ancient monument, the site also underlines the rich cultural heritage of Gwalior. It is an excellent tourist destination and is also addressed as the hall to annual Tansen Music Festival.Every year in the month of November/ December, a national level music competition is held at the place, to venerate this great musician.

Teli Ka Mandir : This religious place marks the presence of Lord Vishnu in the earth. Built in the 9th century AD, it towers at a height of 100ft. According to legends, the temple is so named as it is believed to be fabricated in the ‘Telangana’ architectural style. The temple’s architecture, design and layout features an outstanding fusion of architectural styles. The roof of the temple resembles a Dravidian style while the entire decorations highlights the art of North Indian.The temple exhibit a circular barrel,also called shikar and provides a stunning sight.

Saas-Bahu Temple : The Saas-Bahu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is also a major landmark of Gwalior. Built in 11th century, the name of the temple can be quite misleading. The temple, as many people believe, is not dedicated to ‘Saas’ (mother-in-law) and ‘Bahu’ (daughter-in-law). The name metaphorically and traditionally implies to two temples of different sizes adjoined to each other. The larger is more elaborately patterned with intricate artwork and attractive sculptures. The detailing and the beautiful interior of the temple, especially the roof which exhibits carved lotus, attract many tourists throughout the year.

Jai Vilas Palace :  Though Jai Vilas Palace is the current residence of the Scindia family;about 35 of its palatial rooms have been converted into the ‘Scindia Museum’. The architectural style of this imperial structure is dominantly Italian, with a fine blend of Corinthian and Tuscan architectural modes. Handpicked royal treasures and historical artifacts from different countries are displayed in the museum. The most striking one is a silver train, with cut-glass wagons and miniature rails, which chugged along dinner tables and was used to serve food to the guests.The enormous Jai Vilas Palace built in the 19th century has a pair of world’s heaviest chandeliers in the Durbar Hall, and a crystal staircase.

Mausoleum of Ghaus Mohammed : The sandstone mausoleum of the Afghan prince Ghaus Mohammed, Located in the old town of Hazira.Tthe ‘Afghan Prince turned Sufi Saint’ who helped Babur in annexing the Gwalior Fort. Built in the 16th century, this sandstone tomb is an exemplary piece of Mughal architectural adroitness. Built opulently in early Mughal lines, the screens of the monument have been carved using the pierced stone technique. Thus, these fine trellises look like delicate and exquisitely patterned laces. The beauty of the monument is also enhanced by the dappling gardens that surround it.

Gujari Mahal : Gujari Mahal is fascinating as it portrays the King’s love and admiration for the beautiful and bold Mrignayani, which is now part of folklore. The place now converted onto a museum is known for its collection of Jain and Hindu artifacts and rare collection of stone carvings and other art works. . The Fort is also known for the temples in its precincts.

Near By Attraction  Gwalior

Shivpuri : 114 kms from Gwalior is the old summer capital of Scindias. Set in formal gardens, the Chhatris (tombs) are the main attraction here. With Mughal pavilions and sikhara spires these beautiful memorials to the Scindia rulers are inlaid in Pietra dura style like the Taj Mahal.

Daita : Daita is known for its seven-storied palace of Raja Bir Singh Deo built atop a hill. This unique structure was known in Mahabharata as Daityavakra. The other interesting sights are Gopeshwar Temple and the tantric peeth of Pitambara Devi.

Dholpur : Between Gwalior and Agra, in a part of Rajasthan that separates Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, Dholpur was the scene of a pitched battle between Aurangzeb’s sons for inheritance of the emperor’s throne. There is a very old fort called Shergarh Fort, which is now in ruins.

Sonagiri : Sonagiri is a sacred place of Digambar Jains. It has several white Jain temples around it. King Nanganang Kumar, along with his 15 million followers, achieved liberation at this place.

Tigra dam: Tigra dam is a famous picnic spot, which is constructed on the river Chambal. It is located 23 km away from the city of Gwalior.

How To Reach Gwalior

AIR : Gwalior Airport (8 kms from the main city) is connected by Indian Airlines to Bombay, Bhopal, Indore, and Delhi. The services are operational three days a week. Air Deccan to and from Delhi, Indore and Bhopal to Gwalior’s airport. Indian Airlines Delhi to Jabalpur line also stops at Gwalior.

RAIL : Gwalior is on the Central Railway’s main Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Chennai lines. It iis connected with all major cities in India.Gwalior is very well connected to major cities across India by direct train links. You can reach Gwalior from India’s capital New Delhi, in 3 hours by New Delhi-Bhopal Shatabdi Express(India’s fastest train).

Road : Gwalior is fairly well connected to other parts of Madhya Pradesh and India with national and state highways. The Agra-Bombay national highway (NH3) passes through Gwalior. The Agra-Bombay Road runs though the city connecting it to Shivpuri on one end and Agra on the other. The city is connected to the Jhansi by the National Highway 75, towards the south of the city. In the Northern, the city is connected to the holy city of Mathura via National Highway 3. There are bus services to and from all major and minor cities near Gwalior. The prominent one being Bhopal, Agra, Delhi, Jabalpur, Jhansi, Bhind, Morena, Datia, Jaipur and Indore.

Local transport :Tempos cheapest way to move inside the city, but you may need to share it with other passengers. Gwalior’s public transport system consists of tempos and horse drawn tongas (which run fixed routes much like a bus system) and auto rickshaw taxis. Recently the municipal corporation has launched Gwalior City Bus covering some routes in the city.

Facts About Gwalior

Population : 780,000
Main Languages : Hindi.
Telephone area code : 0751
Best time to visit : October to March
Weather : Summer  24°C-45°C
Winter 6 degress Celcius and 21°Cs

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Lucknow city is popularly known as the ‘the city of Nawabs’. Situated on the banks of the river Gomti, it dates back to the time of the Suryavanshi dynasty. Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, was founded by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula. In the olden times, it served as the capital of the nawabs of Awadh and it is one of the reasons why it is also called as the city of the Nawabs. The era of the Nawabs bestowed Lucknow with the courteous culture as well as mouthwatering delicacies for which it is famous today. Travel to Lucknow with us to find more information on this interesting city!

Speciality of Lucknow

The Awadh region has its own distinct Nawabi style cuisine, with various kinds of biryanis, kebabs and breads. The city has a range of fine restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets. Makkhan Malai, ‘Malai Ki Gilori’ of Ram Asrey (an oldest shop of pure ghee sweets, established in 1805) Chowk , the famous Tundey Kebabs, named after the one-armed chef Haji Murad Ali and ‘Kakori kebabs’ are very popular with food lovers. The Chaat in Lucknow is one of the best in the country. There are quite a few places serving outstanding chaat, like Shukla Chaat and Moti Mahal in Hazratganj, Radhey Lal in Aliganj, Chhappan Bhog in Sadar and Neel Kanth in Gomti Nagar. After a delicious dinner, one can have Paan at any of the innumerable Paan vendors

Place to visit in Lucknow

Bara Imambara – The Bada Imambada or Asafi Imambada (Imambada: patriarch’s place) is an important tourist attraction of Lucknow. this is a religious building belonging to the Shia muslim sect. the complex comprises magnificent buildings, including the splendid Imambara, an impressive mosque, and a complicated maze known as Bhulbhulaiya, which is a major attraction of the Imambara complex. The Bara Imambara is said to have been commissioned by Asaf-ud-Daula inn 1784 as part of his famine relief programme.

Rumi Darwaza – Apart from the Bada Imambada, Asaf-ud-Daula also built the great Roomi Darwaza as a relief work during the famine of 1783, this magnificent gateway is one of the most impressive gateways in India. It is one of the major tourist attractions of Lucknow, and features prominently in all guidebooks about Lucknow.  Said to be a facsimile of one of the gates of Constantinople, this soaring edifice, which is 60 feet high, can match any similar structure in point of beauty and splendor.

Chota Imambara – The Hussainabad or Chota Imambada is an exquisite building built by Nawab Muhammad Ali Shah in 1839 as a burial place for himself. Chota Imambada has the tombs of Mohammed Ali Shah and his family members, the former being the builder of the structure. . The beautiful Imambada, reflected in the placid water of the tank is one of the prettier sights in Lucknow. On either side of the courtyards stand a miniature version of the Taj Mahal.

The Residency – The red building is today in a dilapidated state and marks of cannon shots can be seen on almost every wall. The Residency was built in 1800 by  last Nawabs of the state Nawab Saadat Ali Khan for the British Resident at his court. Originally a very extensive and beautiful building, it received heavy shelling during 1857, when the First War Of Indian Independence took place.The residency saw brutal action during the 1857 revolt, when a lot of lives were lost here.

Sikandar Bagh – this garden was built in early 19th century and later used as the summer palace by Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, the last ruler of Oudh who was deposed by the British East India Company. The garden was also the sight of fierce fighting during the 1857 revolt.

Lucknow has several well-kept parks that attract the citizenry in large numbers on evenings, holidays and weekends. The bigger parks are Ambedkar Memorial and Lohia park in Gomti Nagar, Swarn Jayanti park and Aurobindo Park in Indiranagar, Dilkusha Park, Begum Hazrat Mahal Park, Globe Park, Mukherjee Phuhaar, Haathi Park, Buddha park, and Neebu Park. The sprawling National Botanical Garden at Sikandarbagh on the banks of Gomti river is also worth visiting. The city also has a Reserve Forest, Kukrail Crocodile Park (a picnic spot and Gharial rehabilitation centre). Moosa Bagh and Utretia are other popular picnic spots.

The city is also home to many other interesting structures and gardens, including –
·  Chattar Manzil,
·  Qaiser Bagh palace,
·  La Martiniere College,
·  State Museum
·  Aurangzeb’s mosque.

Places Around Lucknow

Nawabganj Lake : Located at a distance of 40 kilometers form Lucknow is the Nawabganj Lake. It is a colorful bird sanctuary. There is a motel run by the Tourist Department.

Kukrail : Fifteen kilometers from Lucknow is Kukrail, developed as a picnic spot by the Forest Department. There is a deer farm and a crocodile nursery. A children’s park, cafeteria, and a rest house have also been built to facilitate the visitors here. One can see spotted deer, black buck, sambhar, and a variety of birds in their natural abode.

Chinhat Picnic Pavilion : At a distance of 15 kilometers from Lucknow is the Chinhat Picnic Pavilion. There is a rest house by the side of Kathauta Lake. One can also visit the neighborhood Chinhat pottery units.

Best Time To Visit Lucknow

Lucknow is a wonderful place and can be visited just about anytime through the year. However, the best time to visit Lucknow is usually from October to March. This is usually the peak season for Lucknow travel. The weather in Lucknow varies from time to time and there are some extremities in the climatic conditions also. Although there is no answer as such for describing the ideal time to visit Lucknow, one usually visits Lucknow during the months of October to March

How to reach Lucknow

Air: Air access to Lucknow is very convenient nowadays. A large number of domestic airlines operate regular flights to the Lucknow airport, which is located about 15 kilometers from the city. The airport can be reached easily from the city by availing many modes of transport.

Rail: Lucknow is well connected with the rest of the country by a large number of trains, including some of the best known passenger trains operating in Northern India, including the New Delhi bound superfast Shatabdi Express. Some other trains passing through Lucknow include – the Sadhbhavna Express, Shramajivi Express, Neelachal Express, Awadh Assam Express, and Shaheed Express. There are two major railway juctions in the city, namely the Charbagh, and Lucknow Junctions, which lie side by side.

Bus Services: Road transportation in Lucknow is very well maintained, except in some congested parts of the city. The city can be reached conveniently from the major cities of Uttar Pradesh and Northern India. The national highways, NH 24, 25 and 28 pass through the city. Distances from some of the major cities are given below.
Delhi :   497 km, Agra :   363 km,Allahabad :   238 km,  Dehradun :   582 km, Kanpur :   77 km , Varanasi :   300 km.

Facts About Lucknow

Temperature: Summer- Max 47.7°C, Min 24.9°C
Winter- Max 24.5°C, Min 9.1°C
Area: 310 sq km
Altitude: 123 meters above sea level
Rainfall: 972 mm. average yearly
Language: Hindi, Urdu, and English
Lucknow STD Code (Area Code): 0522

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But during monsoon the clouds are thick and the drive is difficult. The sights to see here are the Khasi monoliths and Mawsmai falls during the day time and Limestone caves can be visited on the way back.However, it does not rain during the months of winter and becomes completely dry.The city of Cherrapunjee is 1290 meters above sea level and much of the torrential rain runs off the mountains into the valley below. Another reason why this place has been undiscovered is mainly due to the lack of hotels and lodgings close by.
This is a stunning location and the year-round rain earned Cherrapunji coveted entry long ago into the Guinness Book of World Records as the wettest place on earth, the place where the rainfall can be recorded in feet rather than in millimeters.

Cherrapunji is a town in Meghalaya, India which is credited as being one of the world’s wettest places. It holds two Guinness world records :- For receiving the maximum amount of rainfall in a single year :- 22,987 mm (904.9,973 inches) of rainfall between August 1860 and July 1861. For receiving the maximum amount of rainfall in a single month :- 9299.96 mm (366.14 in) in July 1861.

Specialty :- Cherrapunji is a series of memorable views and one can see as far as Bangladesh. Orchids blooming a few feet away form a belt lacking of vegetation. The place exhibits a dense woods interspersed by rocky, cliffs broken by erosion. An amazing variety of rare orchids, ferns, and moss convert each sector into a botanist’s paradise. Cherrapunji produces the best quality of oranges as well as pineapples. In fact, Cherrapunji oranges are the forefathers of the famous Nagpuri oranges in the Central India.

Places To See in Cherrapunji

Mawsmai Falls :- Mawsmai Falls is the fourth highest falls in India. It is the alluring, the spectacular, cascading 1,035-ft-high fall lie just a few kilometers beyond Cherrapunji.

Khasi monoliths :- It is located near Mawsmai Falls which is a beautiful labyrinth of underground passages beneath age-old caves. The must visit place for amateur and experienced explorers. Elsewhere around Cherrapunji, Khasi monoliths (stones in memory of their ancestors) lie scattered around.

Noh Kalikai Falls :- A few kilometres to the west of Cherrapunjee, a clear bubbling stream emerges from its steep mountain bed to hurtle down a rocky precipice into a deep gorge, creating a captivating view of magnificent beauty. A local legend is connected with the Waterfall from which it has derived its name. Compared favourably with the well known Job Falls of South India, are Noh Kalikai Falls, a few kilometres to the west of Sohra (Cherrapunji). A clear fizzy stream emerges from its steep mountain bed to hurl down a stony precipice, into a deep gorge, creating an arresting view of the nature’s bounty. The cascading waterfall compares favourably with the well known Job Falls of South India.

Krem Mawmluh :- The krem mawmluh cave is located about half a km west of Cherrapunji adjacent to the small hamlet of Mawmluh. The cave interestingly has a five-river way with impressive proportions. With a length of 4503 m, this cave is at present and it is the 4th longest cave in the Indian sub continent.

Krem Phyllut :- It is Situated in village Mawsmai to the south of Cherrapunjee.This cave has a large section of fossil passage, two stream ways and three entrances. The length of the cave is 1003 m.

HOW TO REACH CHERRAPUNJI

By Air :- Pawan Hans has provided a Dauphin helicopter to Govt. of Meghalaya for running regular passenger services on Guwahati- Shillong – Tura sector. After reaching Shillong, you can take a bus or taxi to Cherrapunji.

By Road :- Cherrapunji is 60 km from Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. A steep motorable road are available which leads up to Cherrapunji. Buses and taxis ply to Cherrapunji from Shillong.

Staying in Cherrapunji

Cherrapunji has several comfortable private hotels. Staying at the Circuit House and the Dak Bungalow require prior permission from the administration.

Facts of Cherrapunji

State : Meghalaya, in the north east of India.
Best time to Travel : Through out the year.
Weather Conditions : Monsoon is the only season at Cherrapunji. The land is wet through out the year.
Location : Cherrapunji is just 60 km from Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya.

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About Kashmir

Set like a jeweled crown on the map of India, Kashmir is a multi-faceted diamond, changing its hues with the seasons – always extravagantly beautiful. Two major Himalayan ranges, the Great Himalayan Range and the Pir Panjal, surround the landscape from the north and south respectively. They are the source of great rivers, which flow down into the valleys, forested with orchards and decorated by lily-laden lakes.

The Mughals aptly called Kashmir ‘Paradise on Earth’ where they journeyed across the hot plains of India, to the valley’s cool environs in summer. Here they laid, with great love and care, Srinagar’s many formal, waterfront gardens, now collectively known as the Mughal Gardens. Anecdotes of four and five centuries ago describe their love for these gardens, and the rivalries that centered around their ownership. They also patronized the development of art & craft among the people of Kashmir, leaving behind a heritage of exquisite artisanship among these people and making the handicrafts of the land prized gifts all over the world.

Kashmir is a land where myriad holiday ideas are realised. In winter, when snow carpets the mountains, there is skiing, tobogganing, sledge-riding, etc. along the gentle slopes. In spring and summer, the honey-dewed orchards, rippling lakes and blue skies beckon every soul to sample the many delights the mountains and valleys have to offer. Golfing at 2,700 m above the sea, water-skiing in the lakes and angling for prized rainbow trout, or simply drifting down the willow fringed alleys of lakes in shikaras and living in gorgeous houseboats are some of the most favoured ones.

Places to see in kashmir

Srinagar : The city of lakes nestles in the heart of one of the loveliest areas of the country, The Kashmir Valley. Srinagar is located in the western part of the State of Jammu and Kashmir and is famous for its lakes and the charming rows of houseboats floating on them. Srinagar is the first place in the world to offer a stay on luxurious accommodation world over know as “ houseboats” which offers the facility of almost 5 star hotels. The northern most state of the Indian mainland is rightly called “paradise on earth”. It is also known for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and dry fruits. The Mughal Gardens are an important tourist attraction. The best time when tourists can seize an opportunity to travel to Srinagar is from June to early November to enjoy the extended summer and from December to February in winter.

Gulmarg: Gulmarg is also known as “The Meadow of Flowers”.The meadow of Flowers is a world famous tourist spot in the Baramulla Distt of Kashmir.  With pretty views of green undulating country in spring and snow blanket in winter, its often called Switzerland of India. Gulmarg is famous for skiing, often national level skiing competitions take place here. Gulmarg has a fine 18 hole green golf course which is highest in the world. Gulmarg also has the longest cable car of Asia which takes you to an altitude of 30,000 feet above sea level.The meadow of flowers “Gulmarg” is in the shape of bowl, it is 3.5 Km in length and 1 Km wide. The bowl is encircled by hills, and in the distance are snow-covered peaks.

Pahalgam : Pahalgam, a world famous hill station is 45 Kms. from the District Head Quarter at Anantnag and located on the banks of river Lidder at an altitude of 7200 ft. from sea level. Pahalgam is one among the five tehsils of Anantnag district and tehsil head quarters are located in the main town of Pahalgam. Once a great tourist puller and favourite place for shooting of Bollywood films is perhaps the best health resort in the country. Pahalgam also serves as base camp for the famous Amarnath Ji Yatra. The Pahalgam Valley presents glamorous look due to its pine forests, snow clad mountains, healthy climate and vast meadows and pastures. Pahalgam skirts Lidder river and torrential flow of water in Lidder river enriches the awesome beauty of the Valley.The region is extremely popular among tourists for its outdoor activities like fishing, horse riding, golf and trekking. Tours and travel to Pahalgam usually offer opportunities for outdoor activities.

Dal Lake : Located in close vicinity of the lake are the blooming Mughal-era gardens teeming with a wide variety of beautiful and colorful flowers. The gardens boast of amazing terraced lawns, lovely fountains, numerous flowerbeds, wonderful trees and shrubs and blissful environment, which never fail to impress visitors.If you really want to experience and enjoy life on water, then Dal lake is the best bet. It is dotted with a variety of houseboats, which serve as interesting accommodation options for tourists. Some houseboats are highly luxurious and some are simple. You can take your pick depending on your budget and taste. Their interiors are decorated in traditional style with beautiful handicrafts such as amazingly carved furniture, mesmerizing paintings, arresting carpets, elegant chandeliers etc.

Houseboats : Many tourists are attracted to Srinagar by the charm of staying on a houseboat, which provides the unique experience of living on the water in a cedar-panelled elegant bedroom, with all the conveniences of a luxury hotel. Srinagar’s thousand or so houseboats are moored along sections of the Dal and Nagin Lakes and river Jhelum, each decorated fancifully and named romantically and even whimsically. Like hotels, houseboats vary in degree of luxury and have been accordingly graded by the Department of Tourism.  The cost per day of hiring a houseboat includes all meals and free rides from the houseboat to the nearest jetty and back, as no houseboat on the lakes is directly accessible from the banks.Every standard houseboat provides a balcony in the front, a lounge, dining room, pantry and 3 or more bedrooms with attached bathrooms. All houseboats not moored to the bank of the river or lakes provide a shikara as a free service from the houseboat to the nearest ghat (jetty).

Yusmarg : Yusmarg is approximately 47 km from the Srinagar and lies in the Badgam district of Jammu and Kashmir. The two-hour drive to the place is an enjoyment in itself. Grassy pastures stretching to acres of land, the dense forests full of pine trees, with the backdrop of splendid snow capped mountains leave you almost speechless.  Neel Nag of Yusmarg would have been one among the sources of Jehlum, the second source (present) day source at Verinag was the third source of the river. However, the geologists widely are of the opinion that Neelnag (Yusmargh), whose water level always remain constant even in the rainy days owes to the reason that it must be contributing its precious water to ‘Verinag’ owing to the transfer of water from lake at higher altitude to the lake at lower place.

Sonamarg : Situated at an altitude of 2730 m, Sonamarg (‘The meadow of gold’) has, as its backdrop, snowy mountains against a cerulean sky. The Sindh River that meanders through the valley abounds with trout and mahaseer. Ponies can be hired for the trip up to Thajiwas glacier, which is a major local attraction during the summer months.Sonamarg is the base of a major trek that passes along several mountain lakes –Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar and Gangabal. Sonamarg is also the take off station for the drive to Ladakh across the Zojila, a major pass in the Great Himalayan Range, through which the Srinagar-Leh Road passes.

Sonamarg is also a base for undertaking the yatra to the holy Amarnath cave, during Sawan Purnima. For details about the yatra, refer to the Amaranathji Yatra Link. The drive to Sonamarg is through the Sindh Valley which presents yet another spectacular facet of countryside in Kashmir.

Manasbal : Mansbal is a Scenic Quiet Lake situated just 30 Kms from Srinagar City Center. In spite of its proximity to the city, Manasbal is one of the least known and least visited Resort near Srinagar City when Compared to Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens etc. This makes it a perfect place for a quiet day out with friends and family.
The lake also has facilities for Shikara Riding. Shikaras are the Kashmir Counterparts of Gondolas of Venice. They are small wooden boats suited for ride by 3-4 people. The ride is an experience a few people can forget.
The Lake is surrounded by mountains from three sides. A beautiful and well maintained Garden overlooks the Lake. Its a nice place for having lunch before a boating trip.
Manasbal is situated in GANDERBAL District. Its about 15 Kms from Soura and 18kms from Hazrathbal Shrine and just 7 Kms from the Khirbawhani Shrine at Tulmulla.

Ladakh: The two of the world’s most powerful mountain ranges – the Karakoram and the Great Himalayas – make Ladakh a much preferred adventure destination. The altitude in Ladakh ranges between 3505 m and 2750 m. Ladakh has been described as “The Last Shangrila”, a living museum of Tibetan Culture. Nestled high in the Himalaya and surrounded by two of the world’s mightiest mountain ranges, the Great Himalaya and the Karakoram, it lies athwart two other, the Ladakh range and the Zanskar range. Accessible by road just 2 months out of the year, this isolated ancient Tibetan Kingdom is home to one of the last surviving authentic Tibetan Buddhist cultures. It is magical, remote, with delightful gentle people. It is an otherworldly place with strange monasteries perched on soaring hilltops, ancient palaces clinging to sheer rock walls and landscapes splashed with small but brilliant patches of green. Ladakh beckons for more than one reason. The raw beauty of its barren landscape ,its unique flora and fauna, its culture ,its clear blue skies and clean air ,’ the land where snow never melts and only corn ripens’, has more to offer : a good holiday.

Leh : Leh is located in the Indus river valley at a crossroads of the old trading routes from Kashgar, Tibet, and Kashmir. Its importance as a trading town slowed down with the partition of British India, and ended with the closure of the border in 1962 during the Sino-Indian war. Since the 1999 war with Pakistan, and the consequent development of the Manali-Leh highway, it has become a bustling tourist town, with large numbers of Kashmiri traders.

It’s a small town, easy to get most places by foot. The old town is a compact area of mud brick houses and narrow lanes directly to the east of Main Bazar. Changspa is the agricultural “suburb” northwest of the center, with many guesthouses.

Its elevation is approximately 3500 meters (11,490 feet), so take it easy on your first few days there or risk possible altitude sickness. Even experienced high altitude travellers (Andes) might have some trouble.

Seasons

Kashmir has four distinct seasons, each with its own peculiar character and distinctive charm. These are spring, summer, autumn and winter.

Spring, which extends roughly from March to early May, is when a million blossoms carpet the ground. The weather during this time can be gloriously pleasant at 23 degree Centigrade or chilly and windy at 6 degree Centigrade. This is the season when Srinagar experiences rains, but the showers are brief.

Summer extends from May until the end of August. Light woollens may be required to wear out of Srinagar. In higher altitudes night temperatures drop slightly. Srinagar at this time experiences day temperatures of between 25oC and 35oC. At this time, the whole valley is a mosaic of varying shades of green – rice fields, meadows, trees, etc. and Srinagar with its lakes and waterways is a heaven after the scorching heat of the Indian plains.

The onset of autumn, perhaps Kashmir’s loveliest season, is towards September, when green turns to gold and then to russet and red. The highest day temperatures in September are around 23oC and night temperatures dip to 10oC by October, and further drop by November, when heavy woolens are essential.

Through December, to the beginning of March is winter time, which presents Srinagar in yet another mood. Bare, snow-covered landscapes being watched from beside the warmth of a fire is a joy that cannot be described to anyone who has not experienced it. Some houseboats and hotels remain open in winter-these are either centrally heated or heated with ‘bukharis’, a typically Kashmiri stove kept alight with embers of wood, quite effective in the winter.

How to get kashmir?

By Air: Indian Airlines operate regular daily flights to Srinagar from Delhi, Mumbai and Jammu. They leave from Delhi directly, from Delhi via Jammu, and from Bombay via New Delhi and Jammu. Jet Airways also operate daily flights to Srinagar from Delhi as well as Jammu. Indian Airlines has its city office in the Tourist Reception Centre, while the Jet Airways office is close by.

Srinagar airport is 14 kms from the city. The taxi ride to the Tourist Reception Centre costs about Rs.250/-. Jammu & Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (J&KSRTC) operates special coach services between the airport and the city.
Note: All foreigners are required to register themselves at the Foreigners Regional Registration Office, at its Airport counter.

By Rail: The nearest railhead for Srinagar is Jammu Tawi (305 kms) where trains arrive from Delhi, Calcutta, Pune, Mumbai, Kanyakumari, Ahmedabad, etc. As with flights, train bookings have to be made well in advance. During the holiday season, additional trains operate to and from various parts of the country.

By Road: National Highway 1-A, connecting Srinagar with Jammu, is a good, all-weather road with several sharp inclines and hairpin bends. It is maintained by the Border Roads Organization (BRO), which clears the road of any obstructions resulting from natural causes like landslides and heavy snowfall. The famous Jawahar Tunnel that connects Jammu with the Kashmir Valley across the Pir Panjal range falls en route.

Kashmir Facts

The beautiful Kashmir valley looks like a paradise on earth. The valley is so beautiful that you will fall in love with it at the first sight itself. Infact, the charm and magnificence of Kashmir are beyond the scope of mere words. In the following lines, we have provided some quick information on Kashmir, India. Read on to know fast facts about Kashmir.

Area: 105 sq km
Altitude: 1,730 m
Climate: Summers – 29.5 deg C to 10.6 deg C
Winters - 7.3 deg C to1.9 deg C
Rainfall: 52.9 cm
Population: 930,136 (2001 Census)
Best Time to Visit: March to October
Airports: Srinagar, Jammu and Leh
Clothing: Spring and autumn – Light woolens
Summer - Cotton
Winter - Heavy woolens
Languages: Kashmiri, Urdu, Hindi and English
Religions: Islam and Hinduism
Currency: Rupees
Major Festivals: Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Zoha, Lohri, Baisakhi and Navratri
Major Fairs: Jhiri Mela, Bahu Mela, Mansar Food and Craft Mela, Pumandal Mela and Chaitre Chaudash
Tourist Attractions:    Dal Lake, Nagin Lake, Houseboats, Mughal Gardens, Dachigam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, Patnitop, Charar-I-Sharif, Shankracharya, Hazratbal, etc.

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The hill resort of Darjeeling was given to the British Governor General of India Lord Bentinck in 1835 as a gesture of friendship. Darjeeling was developed into a hill resort by the British, where their officers and merchants could enjoy a peaceful holiday away from the humidity and crowds of Calcutta. Many fine educational institutions were set up in Darjeeling. It is also famous for its tea estates and picturesque toy train. You’re sure to enjoy your peaceful holiday in the picturesque hill resort of Darjeeling in West Bengal, with Incredible India Holiday.

The Darjeeling Toy Train is a heritage railway line, which carries visitors on holiday up to Darjeeling. The train passes hill slopes covered with tea estates up to Ghoom, at 7407 feet, which is the highest stop on the railway line and then comes down to the hill resort of Darjeeling. On the way you can see Mt Kanchenjunga in the distance. The toy train was built by Franklin Prestage in 1888 and the tiny engine and coaches travel on a scenic route. The train moves at a slow pace so visitors can even hop off the train, admire the view, and catch up with the train again. Enjoy the attractions of Darjeeling on your Incredible India Holiday in Darjeeling a hill resort in West Bengal, India. Darjeeling has some very fascinating places of interest. The Botanical Gardens that contain a representative collection of Himalayan plants, flower and orchids. The hot houses are very interesting. The Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre established in 1959 to help rehabilitate Tibetan refugees who fled from Tibet produces superb carpets, woollens, wood carvings and leather work.

Getting Around in Darjeeling

Entering Darjeeling is like travelling back in time to the days of the British Raj, a vertical Victorian London – like town populated with oriental faces. Church spires and brick chimneys dominate the skyline. Darjeeling is a small town and the salubrious climate means walks around town are an extremely enjoyable means of getting around. For longer trips, taxis are available in stands near the entrance to the Mall.

Dhoom Gompa, Darjeeling :About 8 kms from Darjeeling is the Dhoom Gompa. Here a very beautiful statue of the Maitrayie Buddha is established. The Monastery has also preserved some of the rare handwritten Buddhist manuscripts.

The Mall: The Mall is Darjeeling’s popular commercial street. It is lined with Tibetans selling hand-knitted sweaters and souvenir shops chock-full of Himalayan artifacts and both real and imitation antiques. Photo shops carry turn-of-the-century photos as well as specialising in hand-painted black and white prints with glowing oil colours. The Mall leads to Chaurasta, a square, which doubles as a bandstand, a pony riding arena for children and a haven for lovers.

Chowrasta: The Chowrasta, meaning crossroad, is a hive of commercial activity. The Mall Road originates and culminates at the Chowrasta. This is the heart of Victorian Darjeeling. Here hotels, restaurants and shops brush against each other. The shops and stalls are a veritable paradise for souvenir collectors. The Bhutanese sellers display their wares. Woollen garments, tribal ornaments, Thankas, rosaries, brass statuettes and Gorkha daggers are kept on display for sale. Foreign goods are also available in some shops. Local handicrafts are much in demand.

Obeservatory Hill: This point provides one of the breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga peaks,The oldest site in Darjeeling is Observatory Hill, known locally as “Makal-Babu-Ko-Thaan”. According to legend, a Red Hat Buddhist Monastery called Dorje Ling, or ‘place of the Thunderbolt’, stood at this very spot. The Nepalis destroyed it in the 19th century. The Shivas and Buddhists share the temple that stands there today. Be aware of the monkey groups as some them are very aggressive.

Botanical Gardens, Darjeeling: This place is worth a visit for its exotic and exclusive collection of a variety of Himalayan plants, flowers and orchids. This place is near the Darjeeling taxi stand. The gardens also has a green house.

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: A spot not to be missed is the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute created by the late Tenzing Norgay, the Sherpa who conquered Mt Everest with Sir Edmund Hillary on 29 May 1953. A display of equipment used on the climb is one of the highlights. A zoological garden nearby has an assortment of wildlife such as yaks, Siberian tigers and red pandas who call the region their home.

Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway: At North Point about 3-km from the town, this is the first passenger ropeway in India. For reservation of ropeway seats please contact – Officer in-charge, Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Ropeway Station, North Point, Darjeeling. Regular share taxi service is available from Market Motor and Taxi Stand is to the Ropeway Station.

Nearby Attractions from Darjeeling

Tibetan Refuge Camp: The area in and around Darjeeling is a treasure chest of interesting destinations. The Tibetan Refugee self-help scheme produces traditional artifacts, jewellery and carpets for tourist consumption.

Lloyd’s Botanical Garden: Lloyd’s Botanical Garden displays a fine collection of Himalayan fauna for those with an interest, and for punters there is horseracing at Lebong, the smallest and highest racecourse in the world.

Tiger Hill: Situated at an altitude of 2,590m (8,482 ft.) and 13-km from the town, this spot has earned international fame for the magnificent view of the sunrise over “Kanchenjunga” and the great Eastern Himalayan Mountains. Even Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak, is visible from here.

Phalut & Sandakphu: A week’s smallest-trip of Phalut and Sandakphu will get one within reach of the high peaks; for the onlooker it affords a more spectacular panorama than at Tiger Hill. Giant flowering Rhododendron trees, a pointillism of reds pinks and whites Dwarfs comprise of the en route trail. On attaining heights of over 3,048m, one is surrounded by skeletal trees devoid of leaves and branches, which are especially eerie when the clouds roll in and envelop the area.

Pashupati: Further afield, in Pashupati on the Nepal border, one can purchase foreign goods at reasonable prices, view wildlife such as the endangered one-horned Rhino, Deer, Gaur, and wild boar while seated atop an Elephant’s back at Jaldapara Game Park; learn of the Lepcha legend at the confluence of the Teesta and Ranjeet Rivers; relive Kalimpong’s past glory as a trading post by visiting the market filled with traditional Tibetan medicine, spices, musk, wool and silk; or for the truly adventurous-hire some ponies and a crew and take to the hills.

Kurseong: Kurseong is mid-way between Siliguri and Darjeeling. The way from Darjeeling to Kurseong is generally open through out the year. So, the toy train is not coming to Siliguri then one can come up to Kurseong. This place is equally beautiful and is full of natural splendour.

Mirik: Mirik is 52-km from Siliguri and 55-km from the nearest Airfield of Bagdogra. Mirik is being developed as a new hill station in the mountains. Tea estates, orange orchards and cardamom plantations surround Mirik. It has all the facilities to fulfill the needs of a tourist. The lake of Mirik is a nice stretch of water where you can enjoy horse riding and boating. You will be chased by a number of horse riders who will offer you an affordable ride on the horse, even if you dont want one. The best way to avoid them quickly is to tell them that you will take a ride after boating and lunch. Some riverside restaurants can offer average quality meals.

Siliguri / New Jalpaiguri: The twin Cities of Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri are the departure point to Darjeeling, Sikkim and the North Eastern States. Being the nodal point this place has become very busy and crowded. Siliguri also acts as a transit point for Nepal. Tourists come to Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri mainly to change bus or catch trains.

Kalimpong: Kalimpong is within Darjeeling province and is a sub-division of Darjeeling. It is a small but bustling town in the Himalayan foothills of West Bengal – Kalimpong is at an altitude of 1,250m. This bazaar town was originally a part of Bhutan but later it was taken over by the British and finally it settled down with West Bengal. This is a must see for all the nature lovers visiting Darjeeling. The view of tea gardens from a park on the top of this hill will sweep you off your feet. You will find yourself in a garden on the top of the hill. You’ll be surrounded on all sides by tea gardens going thousands of feet deep, and the entire picturesque landscape guarded well on all sides by high rise mountains. Kalimpong is a little warmer than Darjeeling. On your way from Darjeeling to Kalimpong, you will come across many hill points and a picturesque view of river Teesta. You can enjoy rafting on the river, if you have enough number of enthusiasts in the group.

Natural History Museum, Darjeeling: A great place to be at, for all those who have great interest in knowing about the history.The museum has a collection of over 4300 specimen . Established in 1903, this natural history museum packs in its folds a rich collection of fauna found in the Himalayas and in Bengal. Among the attractions are included the estuarine crocodiles. This unique museum also has a good collection of butterflies. The mineral forms of various stones are displayed in a very attractive manner in the museum.

Kanchenjunga View, Darjeeling: From Darjeeling one can have the best, uninterrupted view of the worlds third highest peak. Bhan Bhakta Sarani provides one of the enthralling views of these snow capped peaks. The Chowrasta also gives you a good sight to the Kanchenjunga peak.

Darjeeling Zoological Gardens: The zoo is situated two kms form the main town. This zoological garden of Darjeeling houses some of the rare species of animals and birds. This is the only zoo in India having the Siberian Tigers. Apart from these the rare Red Panda is also there. The Snow Leopards, Great Grey Birds, Snow Yaks are some the animals which are attracting tourist in great numbers.

What to do in Darjeeling – Adventure Sports

Darjeeling is one of the oldest hill stations in India, and has plenty of options, both for those seeking a lazy getaway from the hot plains, as well as nature enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies. Apart from sights within the town, there are plenty of trek options along the Himalayan ridges on the Indo-Nepal border near Darjeeling. The most popular one being the Singhalia Ridge Trail. Bookings for guides, porters and accommodation on the trail can be made in Darjeeling or in the nearby town of Manebhanjang, which serves as the trail-head.

Senchal Golf Course: This 9-hole Golf Cource is one of the highest Golf Cource in the world (altitude 8,150 ft). It is near Tiger Hill and has a Club House and a Tourist Lodge.

Lebong Race Course: About 8-km from the town, it is one of the smallest and highest Race Course in the world. Races are held during Spring & Autumn season under the management of local Gymkhana Club

Trekking: Trekking in the Darjeeling Hills began almost a century ago. Infact, the first organised trekking route in India was established here along the Sangalila range. The trek begins in Darjeeling and proceeds through Maneybhanjyang, Tonglu, Sandakphu and ends in Phalut. The alluring natural beauty is replete with countless varieties of Rhododendrons, Magnolias, Orchids and Wild Flowers. The dense forests, the verdant meadows, the savage mass of Mt. Everest, the everlasting beauty of Kanchenjunga, the rugged Lhotse or the mysterious Makalu – all in one sweeping glance, present an experience that can never be equaled. To top this there are glorious mountain sights including the view of the four majestic over 8000 meter high peaks of Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu and Lhotse from the vintage point of Sandakphu.

What and Where to Eat

‘Momos’ – a steamed delicacy are a staple food offered by almost every eating joint. Several eateries which dish out North Indian, Nepali, Tibetan, and continental fare dot the area around the Mall.

Glenary’s Bakery and Cafe. A good place for pastries, the ubiquitous Darjeeling cuppa, sizzerlers and North Indian fare. Offers nice views of the Kanchendzonga on clear days.

Hot Stimulating Cafe. On the way to Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, on Hooker Road, is this lovely little cozy place. The Momos here are awesome! They even offer a Momo-cooking course! The guy who owns it can double up as your local guide, trekking along with you to some adventurous outings from Darjeeling.

One major problem is everything closes pretty early in the night (8 PM). So do keep something in stock to eat, if you are planning to stay up late.

Darjeeling – Where to Stay

Accommodation is easily available at the hill resort of Darjeeling. There are several hotels that dot Darjeeling. Resorts and Hostels also offer comfortable stay. You may pick the one that suits your budget.

Good and hygienic food is also available at reasonable rates in Darjeeling. There are many restaurants and eateries that cater to the needs of the tourists. There are eating joints known especially for milk shakes, pastries and scrumptious patties. For whose who wish to lift their spirits a glass of the local chhang (an intoxicant drink made of barley) is a must try!

Darjeeling – Fairs and Festival

The Teesta Tea and Tourism Festival is an annual festival that takes place in Darjeeling during the months of December-January. Competitions and stalls add color to the festival.

Darjeeling – Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Darjeeling is from March-May or September-November. The rains which start by May end are heavy downpours making living conditions cold and dreary. In winter there is a drastic fall in temperature from the summer’s 15 to 25 degrees centigrade to 2 to 10 degrees in winter.

How To Reach Darjeeling

Air: The nearest airport to Darjeeling in Bagdogra, 100-km south. ADGHC bus leaves the tourist lodge and club side around 8 am each day to connect with flights; tickets for the bus can be booked at the tourist bureau.

Rail: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) near Siliguri is the nearest station on the main inter-city line. Direct trains to NJP run from Delhi (approx 27 hours) several times a day. From there, the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, known to all as the ‘Toy Train’ completes the journey to Darjeeling. This route is very popular with tourists as it passes through some very picturesque mountain scenery and has been the subject of many romantic articles. They have tourist quotas for trains to Delhi, Kolkataa, Bangalore, Cochin and Thiruvananthapuram.

Road: Buses and minibuses run every thirty minutes or so to Siliguri from the bus stand at the bazaar. Buses leave for Mirik every thirty minutes. Two minibuses run each day run to Gangtok and one minibus leaves every day for Kalimpong. Although it’s possible to buy bus tickets for Kathmandu, tourists still have to change buses at Siliguri.

Darjeeling – Fast Facts

Area 10.57 sq km
Altitude 2,134 m above sea level
Population 73,062
Languages Bengali, Nepali, Hindi, and English
Religion Hindus (77.95%), Buddhist (11.95%), Others (10.1%)
Annual Mean Rainfall 3,200 mm
Maximum Temperature 14.89°C
Minimum Temperature 5°C
STD Code 0354

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On your holiday to Jaipur do check out the picturesque places to see in and around. Rajasthan’s beautiful Pink City Jaipur, was the stronghold of a clan of rulers whose three hill forts and series of palaces in the city are important attractions. Known as the Pink City because of the colour of the stone used exclusively in the walled city, Jaipur’s bazaars sell embroidered leather shoes, blue pottery, tie and dye scarves and other exotic wares.  Most of the places you get to see in Jaipur take you to a royal era. The journey into the past continues in tourist places around Jaipur too.

Find Hotels In Jaipur

The city of Jaipur or the ‘City of Victory‘ was named after Sawai Jai Singh, the Kachhwaha King and the founder the city. The started was built between 1727 AD and 1731 AD. It is the first planned city in India built on the basis of principles of the Shilpa Shastra, the ancient Indian treatise on architecture. The city became famous as the ‘Pink City’ when the entire city was painted with pink color in the honor of the Prince of Wales, who visited Jaipur in 1853 AD.  The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is steeped in history and culture. Here the past comes alive in magnificent forts and palaces, blushed pink, where once lived the maharajas.

Jaipur has been laid according to the conventional nine-grid pattern that astrologers believe to be lucky, and which has been recommended in the ancient Indian treatise on architecture. Each grid consists of a square, and these have been planned so that, at the heart of the city is the City Palace. Spread around it, in rows, are public buildings, the residences of noblemen, the living and trading quarters of merchants and artisans. Straight, wide roads run through the city, while a high, crenellated wall that forms its defense is pierced with seven gateways that serve as entry points. Today, these walls may be more difficult to spot since the city has grown far beyond its original plan, but they are still there, proof that though Jaipur saw no great siege, it was more than adequately prepared for it.
Jaipur has much to offer visitors — everything from pageants and festivals to extraordinarily clad people, a wealth of handicrafts, a royal legacy of palaces, and sightseeing — that will occupy their time. However, should the visitors simply choose to walk around the streets of the old city instead, they will not regret it. All of Jaipur is an architectural gem, and no scheduled sight seeing can even hope to do justice to this rare city.

Holiday in Jaipur can be exciting with several historic places to visit. The forts, palaces and museums are bound to impress you. City Palace, the former royal residence is the first place to be visited in Jaipur. The palace built incorporating the features of both the Rajput and Mughal style of architecture. The palace houses a museum, which is a treasure trove of the Rajputs glorious past. The exhibits in the museum include various swords, their sheaths, carpets, miniature paintings, rare collection on astronomical works and numerous royal artifacts.

PLACES TO SEE IN JAIPUR

Jaipur forms part of India’s popular Golden Triangle tourist circuit, and lures visitors with its stunning remnants of a bygone era. The royal forts and palaces of Jaipur are the most popular attractions. Most of them boast stunning views and elaborate architecture. Elephant safaris and hot air balloon rides are on offer for the more adventurous visitors. Shopping is fantastic in Jaipur, with everything from jewelry to handicrafts available. Staying in Jaipur is also particularly enjoyable. The city has some incredible heritage hotels that have been converted from old palaces, giving guests a very regal experience.

Jantar Mantar :

This is the largest observatory among those built by the astronomer king Sawai Jai Singh II in various parts of the country. Also called as the “Yantralaya”. Its various instruments (yantras) were used to observe the movements of heavenly bodies as also to measure the local time and predict eclipses.

Hawa Mahal

Jaipur’s signature building, the Hawa Mahal, a multi layered palace, was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. The intricate and fascinating facade of the Palace of the Winds is probably Jaipur’s most recognized building. Constructed in 1799, it has five floors that contain rows of small windows and screens. Legend has it that the palace, which overlooks the main street of Jaipur’s lively Old City, was built so that the women of the royal household could watch the street scene below without being observed. The stark maze of pillars and passages inside is nowhere as impressive as the palace’s exterior, but a panoramic view of the city can be had from the top of the building.

Amber Fort

Around half an hour’s drive from the city center, like something out of a fairy tale, Amber Fort is set on a hill top overlooking the Maota Lake. It was the original home of Rajput royalty until Jaipur city was constructed, and contains a number of breathtaking palaces, halls, gardens, and temples. Inside, the elaborate mirror work adds to the grandeur. The fort entrance is reached by walking up the hill, going in a jeep, or taking a lurching elephant ride. Within the Fort lies the famous Jai Mandir (Temple) with its world renowned Sheesh Mahal, a hall full of Mirrors.

Jaigarh Fort

It is one of the few military structures of medieval India preserved almost intact, containing palaces, gardens, open and covered reservoirs, a granary, an armoury, a well-planned cannon foundry, several temples, a tall tower and a giant mounted cannon . Flanked by towering gateways and watchtowers, it contains the world’s largest cannon on wheels. Jaigarh doesn’t have the delicate interiors of Amber Fort, and therefore appears as a real fortress. Climb the Diwa Burj watchtower to get an excellent view over the plains.

Nahargarh Fort

Nahargarh Fort, also known as Tiger Fort, is perched high on the rugged Aravali Hills overlooking Jaipur city. The fort was built 1734 to help defend the city. It found fame in 2006, after many scenes from the movie Rang De Basanti were filmed there. Nahargarh Fort offers spectacular views, which are best seen at sunset. It also makes a great place for a picnic as there’s a cafe on the premises, which serves beer and snacks until 10 p.m. The fort looks particularly attractive at night when it’s lit up.

City Palace

The City Palace is an imposing blend of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal art and architecture.Upon visiting the magnificant City Palace, it’s easy to see that the royal family of Jaipur was one of the richest in India. The huge complex of courtyards, gardens, and buildings blend both Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The Peacock Gate is exquisite, and contains an alluring display of detailed workmanship featuring bright peacocks. Today, the royal family lives in the graceful Chandra Mahal (Moon Palace) bordering the courtyard. Also inside the City Palace complex is a museum, art gallery, and interesting displays of royal costumes and old Indian weapons.

Diwan-e-Aam / Diwan-e-Khas

Diwan-e-Khas (hall of private audience) is housed between the art gallery (once the diwan-e-aam-hall of public audience) and the armoury. The most attractive feature is the two sterling silver vessels (in the marble-paved gallery) in which Maharaja Madho Singh II, a devout Hindu, took holy Ganga water during a visit to Europe. The two vessels are massive standing 160 cm and have a capacity of 9000 litres each. They are listed in the Guinness book of Records as the biggest silver vessels in the world. From the ceiling of the hall hang a number of chandeliers which are covered with plastic to prevent dust and bird droppings falling on them.

Jal Mahal

Jal Mahal of Jaipur is a pleasure palace built in the 18th century. Situated amidst the picturesque Mansagar Lake, the palace has the Nahargarh hills forming its backdrop. Jaipur Jal Mahal Palace is an architectural beauty and was meant to be used for the royal duck shooting parties. Developed as an enjoyment spot, it is entered through a causeway situated in the middle of Mansagar Lake. Jal Mahal of Jaipur, Rajasthan is a five-story palace, with the first four floors being submerged under water. The Nahargarh Fort situated nearby offers a splendid view of the lake as well as the palace. You can also get magnificent views of the Jal Mahal place of Jaipur from Mansagar Dam on the eastern side of the lake. The Mansagar Lake is also a bird watcher’s paradise as it serves as the home of a variety of local as well as migratory birds. Opposite the palace are the cenotaphs of the royal family.

Fairs & Festivals

Teej (July-August) is probably the best known, and marks the onset of the monsoon. Women in full festive dresses symbolically play on flower-decorated swings.

Gangaur Festival (March-April) is another festival concentrating on women when they pray of Goddess Parvati, and a procession in full regalia is taken out through the city.

Elephant Festival (March) Playing holi on these majestic mammals is a unique sight during the festival.

Getting there

Air : Indian  Airlines connect Jaipur with Delhi, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Aurangabad, Bombay, Varanasi,  Calcutta, Ahmedabad.
Rail: Jaipur is  connected by rail with Delhi, Agra, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Abu Road (Mount Abu), Udaipur,  Bombay and Sawai Madhopur.
Road: Good  motorable roads connect Jaipur with Delhi 258 km, Agra 236 km, Bikaner 321 km, Udaipur 405  km, Ajmer 131 km, Jodhpur 316 km, Bharatpur  176 km, Jaisalmer 638 km and Bombay 1202  km
Bus : Regular  buses ply from Jaipur to the above places and Alwar, Kota, Sariska, Mathura, Indore,  Chittorgarh and Barmer.
By car : This is the most popular way of reaching from Delhi. The journey by car from Delhi to Jaipur takes less than 4hrs. National Highway no. 8 connects Delhi to Jaipur via the industrial township of Gurgaon. The road is excellent.
Where to Stay in Jaipur
Jaipur “The Pink City” has a number of hotels that are well equipped with modern amenities and facilities. You can select an accomodation from Heritage hotels to five star hotes to budget hotels depending upon your pocket. Jaipur has a number of heritage hotels, which have been converted into hotels from the erstwhile palaces and havelis of Jaipur royalty.

Shopping in Jaipur

A major gem and jewellery centre, Jaipur is famous for Kundan work (enamel work on gold). Also there are woollen carpets, cotton rugs, marble statuary, enamelled wares, brass ware, hand-block printed Sanganeri and Bagru Cotton fabrics, exotic blue pottery made from crushed quartz, leather footwear and more

General Information about Jaipur

State: Rajasthan
STD Code: 0141
Area : 64.75 sq. km. Jaipur City
Altitude : 431 metres
Population : 1.9 million
Climate : Summer 45°C (MAX)-25.8°C (MIN)
Winter 22°C (MAX)- 8.3°C (MIN)
Rainfall : 64 centimeters
Best Season : September – March
Clothing : Summer – Light tropical
Winter – Light Woollen
Language : Rajasthani, Hindi, English

Image Gallery Of Jaipur

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Kerala, a tiny strip of land at the southernmost part of India, is a much loved tourist destination thronged by holiday makers. Referred to by the tag line ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala is frequented by both locals and foreigners alike. Holiday destinations in this small State are scattered across in different pockets. Be it beaches, dense forests, hill stations, rich culture and hip hangouts, Kerala has something cut out for every kind of tourist. All you got to do is know your special needs and head straight to the place that offers it.

Kerala will particularly appeal to the beach lovers, as there are plenty of beaches across the State, right from the Kovalam Beach of Trivandrum to Bekal beach of Kasargode. Kovalam Beach, which has three crescent shaped beaches, is a surefire amongst the tourists. You will love it for its cleanliness, beach side shacks, open grills and the handicraft shops.

Apart from the beaches, what attracts tourists to this lovely State is its scenic splendour. If you are in the mood for a good trek up the hills, then think no more, just land up in Kerala with your trekking gear. Of all the high ranges in Kerala, Munnar is the most popular one. Munnar, with its wide expanses of tea plantations, tree houses and rich flora and fauna is an attractive hill station.

Kerala enjoys unique geographical features that have made it one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Asia. An equable climate, a long shoreline with serene beaches. Lush hill stations and exotic wildlife. Waterfalls. Sprawling plantations and paddy fields. Ayurvedic health holidays. Enchanting art forms. Magical festivals. Historic and cultural monuments. An exotic cuisine… All of which offer you a unique experience. A Journey through the curving and winding backwaters of Kerala is an experience of returning to nature. Houseboat holidays have become popular in the backwaters of Kerala and provide an extremely soothing experience

Kerala, India’s most advanced society :A hundred percent literate people. World-class health care systems. India’s lowest infant mortality and highest life expectancy rates. The highest physical quality of life in India. Peaceful and pristine, Kerala is also India’s cleanest state.

Taking a honeymoon in Kerala :- Looking for something a little different from the Maldives or Mauritius, then Kerala could be perfect for you. Every bit as romantic or luxurious but with a wonderful culture and “get away from it all” experience.

Kerala Ayurveda

Ayurveda Kerala :-Kerala is the spiritual and historical to the healing system called Ayurveda, which in many ways is there original models for the world’s other healing systems such as Western Medicine. Although Ayurveda is growing popular as an adjunct to beach resorts and five star hotels throughout India, the real thing is not simply a massage or two in the hotel spa, but rather a serious medical practice that can resolve many ailments and is extraordinarily effective with conditions such as obesity and muscular problems.

Kerala Houseboats :- Traditionally, the Kerala houseboat was called Kettuvallam, which means a boat

made by tying together pieces of wood. Unbelievable as it may sound, not a single nail is used in the making of a Kettuvallam. Jack wood planks are joined together with coir rope and then coated with black resin made from boiled cashew nut shells. The materials that go into the making are all local and Eco friendly bamboo poles, coconut fiber ropes, bamboo mats, coir carpets etc These traditional country boats were used as the mode of transport in the early times from the isolated interior villages to the towns. But these boat services have been laid off with the developments taken place in the transport services in the recent past. Today these giant 80-foot long crafts have been adapted into luxuriously furnished houseboats. A Kettuvallam usually has one or two bath attached rooms, an open lounge, deck, kitchenette and a crew comprising two oarsmen and a cook. Traditional lanterns are used as lights.

House Boats

Some of the major holiday destinations in Kerala are:

Alleppey (also Known as Alappuzha)

Alleppey (also Known as Alappuzha) :-The town was founded by Raja Keshawadasan, Divan of Travanacore in 1762. With the arabian sea on the west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons and fresh water rivers crisscrossing it, alappuzha is a district of immense natural beauty. Referred to as the venice of the east by travellers from across the world, this backwater country is also home to diverse animal and bird life. By virtue of its proximity to the sea, the town has always enjoyed a unique place in the maritime history of Kerala. Today, Alappuzha (Alleppey) has grown in importance as a backwater tourist centre, & also famous for its boat races, houseboat holidays, beaches, marine products and coir industry.

Places to Visit in Alleppey:Kuttanad, Alappuzha (Alleppey) Beach, Pathira Manal, Champakulam Church, Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple

Kathakali dance

Cochin (also Known as Ernakulam ) :-Fort Cochin with its stunning location between the Arabian Sea and the backwaters and its historical associations is one of Kerala’s prime tourist destinations. Along its winding narrow lanes are some Old Dutch houses, spice markets, the Dutch Palace, India’s oldest European church built in 1503 and a Jewish synagogue. Huge, elegant chinese fishing nets that line the tip of Fort Cochin are a must see and when you’re there, you can savor the fresh catch of the day at nearby restaurants. It is in Cochin that you can enjoy the spectacular Kathakali dance-drama performances in one of the many studios.

Places to Visit in Cochin: Fort Kochi, Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), Synagogue, Bolghatty Island, Willingdon Island.

Munnar :-A scenic four-hour drive from Cochin takes you to Munnar, a nature lover’s paradise. This place with its hillside rivulets and streams running along the roads, extensive te

a plantations, and breathtaking views also has a sizable population of wildlife. A stroll through Eravikulam National park will bring you ‘face to face’ with a good population of Ibex. Mudapetty Dam is an ideal picnic spot on the route to the ‘Top station’, from where you can enjoy the views of the valley. . Sprawling tea plantations, picturebook towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular resort town. Munnar also has the highest peak in south india, anamudi, which towers over 2695m. Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking.

Places to Visit in Munnar: Pothamedu, Devikulam, Nyayamakad, Rajamala, Eravikulam National Park.

Sunset in Kumarakom

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, extensive rubber plantations and a totally literate people have given this district the enviable title : the land also boasts the first malayalam printing press which was established by benjamin bailey, a christian missionary, in 1820 A.D.

Places to Visit in Kumarakom: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.

Thekkady (also Known as Periyar) :-The very sound of the word thekkady conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hills and spice scented plantations. In the periyar forest of thekkady is one of the finest wildlife reserves in india, and spread across the entire district are picturesque plantations and hill towns that hold great opportunities for treks and mountain walks.

Places to Visit in Thekkady: The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kumily, Murikkady, Vandanmedu.

Kovalam :- Kovalam is the only beach resort of Kerala, and is very popular with the Indian as well as international tourists., Kovalam lies about 12Km south of Trivandrum. It consists of two palm-fringed beaches separated by rocky headlands.Kovalam consists of three successive small crescent beaches; the southern most known as Lighthouse Beach, is where most of the visitors spend their time. The beach is bordered with low cost lodging houses, and restaurants which offer adequate facilities, at affordable tariffs – ideal for a long stay. The light house on the promontory at the southern end of the beach, offers a spectacular view across to the Vizhinjam mosque. Photography is prohibited here.

Varkala :- This is another good beach 50 km from Trivandrum. The Papanasan beach here is not as crowded as the one in Kovalam. This small town in Kerala is well-known because of the Janardhana Swamy temple, which holds its legend for over 2000 years. To honour the ancestors the residents of this town celebrate Arattu every year in March/April. The sun, sea and the calm beach under the red cliff attracts western visitors to this delightful place.

Thiruvanthapuram (also known as Trivandrum) :- Thiruvananthapuram (known as Trivendrum) the capital of Kerala. Located at the South Western tip of India, is bounded by the Arabian sea on the West and Tamil Nadu on the East. The wooded highlands on the Western Ghats in the Eastern and North Eastern borders give some of the most enchanting picnic spots, a long shorline, with internationally renowned beaches, historic monuments, backwater stretches and a rich cultural heritage make this district a much sought after tourist destination.

Places to Visit in Thiruvanthapuram:Kovalam Beach, Padmanabha Swamy Temple, Kuthiramalika Palace Museum, The Napier Museum, Sree Chitbra Art Gallery.

Kollam (Quilon) :- Quilon or Kollam is located 155 km south of Cochin with old timber buildings and red clay tile roofings, which is a mark of typical Kerala architecture. For most tourist Kollam is either a starting point or the last stop of their backwater trip. The much cherished ashram of Mata Amritanandamayi is in the proximity of Kollam

Kozhikode (Calicut) :-Once the capital of the powerful zamorins and a prominent trade and commerce centre, Kozhikode (Calicut) was the most important region of Malabar in the days gone by. Today, lush green countrysides, serene beaches, historic sites, wildlife sanctuaries, rivers, hills, a unique culture and a warm, friendly ambience make Kozhikode (Calicut) a popular destination.

Kannur :-With the western ghats in the east (Coorg district of Karnataka state), Kozhikode (Calicut) and Wayanad sistricts in the south, Lakshadweep sea in the west and Kasaragod in the north, Kannur district is bounded by a wealth of natural beauty. The district itself which shares much of this natural splendor has been a key contributor to the cultural, religious, political and industrial heritage of the state. In addition, Kannur enjoys the credit of  having been the cradle of many a colourful folk art and folk music of Kerala.

Travel Guide Line

Best time to visit
High season: December – May ,Monsoon Rejuvenation programmes: June – November

Travel Kit
Cotton outfits, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen lotion etc.

Drugs
Heavy penalities including imprisonment for possession of narcotic drugs.

Ayurveda
Go only to those Ayurveda centres that are classified/approved by the Department of Tourism

Food
All standard restaurants offer a variety of cuisines including Continental, Chinese, Indian and typical Kerala fare.

Water
Tap water is purified and quite safe to drink. It is not advisable to drink water from slow moving streams, lakes or dams. Bottled water is also available.

Emergency number
Police control room: 100
Fire station: 101
Ambulance: 101

Temple codes
Some temples do not permit entry to non-Hindus. Strict dress codes are followed in most of the temples. Footwear is banned inside the temple premises

Nudity
Nudity is not allowed in any Kerala beach.

Smoking
Smoking is banned in public places

Footwear in houses
Visitors to most Kerala houses leave their footwear outside before entering the house.

Demonstrativeness in public
Behaviour demonstrating affection in public like hugging or kissing is not an accepted practice in Kerala.

Wildlife sanctuaries
To visit a wildlife sanctuary, prior permission has to be taken from the concerned authority of the sanctuary.

Image Gallery of Kerala

	
	

		
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The Gateway of Four Pilgrimages

Haridwar is considered as the gateway to the four pilgrimages in the Uttrakhand region, The Ganga leaves the mountains and enters the plains with Hardwar being the first major town on the plains. Though the Ganges does not lose its rapids completely nevertheless it becomes very quite and calm here. The water is clean and people prefer taking bath on the numerous ghats built on the river shores. It is said that taking bath here purifies the soul and opens the way for the ultimate freedom, Nirvana

It is believed that Haridwar has been sanctified by the presence of three Gods: Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. Devout believers feel that they will attain salvation and go to heaven after a dip in the sacred Ganga at Haridwar. Haridwar is also one of the four venues of the Kumbh Mela (occurring after a rotation of every twelve Years) and Ardh Kumbh (after every six years). According to mythology drops of Amrit (Elixir) fell in to the Brahmkund of Har-Ki-Pairi, therefore a dip in the Brahmakund on this particular day is considered very auspicious.

Haridwar has not only remained the abode of the holy men and saints but also served as a center of attraction for many, for learning the arts, science and culture. Haridwar is not only religiously important but also has industrial importance as it has one of the biggest industrial clusters of Uttaranchal- SIDCUL. Haridwar also has one of the most prestigious engineering institutes of India- the Roorkee University (now an IIT).

Haridwar has since ages been a source of Ayurvedic medicines and has been providing herbal remedies. Hardwar one of the first towns to be developed on Ganges is still lush and green with forest and trees. With Rajaji Park in the vicinity Hardwar has also been the destination for the wildlife and nature lovers. The city acquires a unique charm in the evening when the ghats become breath taking beautiful with thousands of Diyas and Marigold floating in the waters of Ganges. About three and half lakh People reside in this city. Hindi, Punjabi, Garhwali and English are the main Languages of Communication.

Excursions:

Rajaji National Park
The Rajaji National Park is around 10 km from Haridwar. It’s an ideal destination for wild life and adventure lovers. It has 23 species of mammals and 315 avifauna species. One may watch a herd of elephants roaming majestically in the jungle or may find oneself excited by wildlife of many kinds including tigers, leopard, jungle cat, Himalayan yellow throated marten, samber, cheetal, barking deer, wild boar, langoor, ghural, sloth beer, king cobra, woodpecker etc

Rishikesh
Rishikesh is another popular Hindu pilgrimage center located along the right bank of the River Ganga. A breathtaking experience of natural beauty and undiscovered wildlife wait at Rishikesh. Main attractions at Rishikesh are the Ghats, temples, Ashrams and Laxman Jhoola. Rishikesh is also a center for learning and research in yoga and meditation- the renowned Indian methods for mental and physical health. The weeklong International Yoga festival, that attracts participation from all across the world, is held here.

Dehradun
Dehradun is the capital of Uttaranchal state. It is an important and popular tourist destination of North India. The climate and location of Dehradun makes it a popular tourist destination. Mussoorie, the queen of hills and many nearby places attract a large number of tourists from different parts.

Area : 12.302 sq. km.

Population : 3,48,142 (1991 census)

Altitude : 294.70 meters above sea level.

Season : Round the year.

Clothing : Summer – Cottons; Winter – Woollens

Language : Hindi & English

Local Transport : Taxis, Tongas, Tempos, Buses, Cycle-Rikshaws, Auto-Rickshaws

STD Code : 0133

Location
It is located on the foot hills of Shivaliks and on the banks of River Ganga. This major pilgrimage center is well connected by trains to all the major towns of India. In fact trains bring the major load of pilgrims and tourist inflow to Haridwar. Haridwar is located at a height of almost 300 meters . One Should never expect any sort of pleasant high altitude climate here. During the summers the temperature usually hangs around 40 degrees but winters sees the mercury dipping as low as six degrees. So neither of the seasons are suitable or ideal for tourists to venture in Haridwar. The monsoons further add to the miseries of the visitors.

Distances of major tourist destinations from Haridwar are :

Rishikesh – 24 kms, Kedarnanth – 241 kms, Corbett National Park – 180 kms, Gangotri – 250 kms, Deharadun – 55 kms, Nanital – 320 kms, Badrinath – 288 kms, Mussourie – 87 kms, Yamunotri – 250 kms, Roorkee – 29 kms, Ranikhet – 325 kms.

Image Gallery Of Haridwar

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