History of Golden Temple, Amritsar

Golden temple is one of the famous temples of Amritsar. It is also known as historical place of India. Today I will tell you a brief history of golden temple and why to visit this beautiful place of Amritsar. Let us start with location of golden temple.

Location

Golden temple road,

Amritsar,

Punjab

Brief history of golden temple

                First of let me tell you that this great temple of India is also known as Harmandir sahib and darbar sahib. Let us start with how hari sahib is named. It is named after the god of sikh shri hari. And because, it is made from gold it is also known as golden temple. 

Shri hari sahib temple is situated in the center of small lake which is made by man. Name of this lake is Amritsar Lake.  Construction of this lake is started in 1573 under the leadership of fourth guru of sikh guru ramdas ji. After the four years in 1577 construction of Amritsar Lake is completed. In 1588 construction of golden temple is started under the leadership of fifth guru of sikh , guru arjan dev ji. As we all know that in construction of this temple too much gold is used and because of this thing golden temple is attacked too many times.

Why to visit golden temple?

               You might have visited too many places and too many temples but when golden temple comes into picture I am sure you will forget all these places. When you stand in this temple with close eyes for just five minutes you will get great peace of mind. There is a very peaceful atmosphere. This temple has awesome Sikh architecture.  If you look this temple from front side it looks very beautiful. So if you don’t visited golden temple yet then don’t waste your time and visit this temple just once in your life.

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Top 5 Tourist Places in India to travel in summer

India abounds with tourist places to cater to the different sensibilities and needs. Immense geographical diversity along with cultural richness beckons people from around the world to visit tourist places in India and explore its rich heritage and variety of experiences. For those planning summer vacations in India, there is more to it than just Kashmir, Leh and Ladakh. Western Ghats and Nilgiris in South India are home to some of the most scenic hill stations in India. Mentioned below are top 5 tourist places in India which comes to my mind where you could enjoy your summer holidays in India.   

Coorg (Kodagu):

Nestled amidst the lush rolling hills and valleys of the Western Ghats, Coorg is one of the most affluent hill stations in Karnataka offering unequaled luxurious holidays to tourists. Fondly referred to as the 'Scotland of India' and sometimes as 'Kashmir of the South' due to its verdant beauty and salubrious weather conditions, Coorg has a special place among all hill stations in India.

Nestled at the altitude in the range of 3500 ft above sea level, the mountainous Kodagu (or Coorg) region is home to the Kodava people and Tibetan refugees. The natural majesty and lush environs of this hill station make it an ideal place for trekking, bird-watching and rejuvenation. If you are traveling here in April-May, then driving along the winding roads over hills offers spectacular vista as you drive past spice and coffee plantations recently bloomed into fragrant white blossoms.

Located as it is in the Western Ghats, Coorg also offers trekking opportunities which vary from easy to moderate. While trekking in Coorg, you may hire local guides who arrange for food and lodging. Other activity to let you indulge is golf with 3 golf courses which are located in Polibetta, Mercara and Coorg Golf Link in Bittangala.

Best Time: Except for Monsoon (June to September), Coorg is best visited throughout the year. Maximum temperature seldom go beyond 30 degrees even during peak summer season.

Ooty:

Established as a retreat from the scorching heat of summer by British in then Madras,  Ooty is still pervaded by distinct colonial charm. The ride to this tiny hamlet of Raj era countryside in India is on a toy train (The Nilgiris Mountain Railways) which recreates the romance of bygone century, the scenery is stunning and its best if you have managed to get seat on the left-hand side. After that, it’s a visual delight, with pretty cottages, bijou fenced flower gardens, lush surroundings, thatched-roof churches and terraced botanical gardens.

The charming little hill station Ooty is best for languid stupor.  Although the urbanization and popularity of this place has taken its toll, you just need to venture a few kilometres out to find yourself amidst the peace of hills, an almost Shakespearean pastoral refuge.

Activities here include visiting various sunset points, botanical gardens, tea plantations, lakes and various waterfalls. Doddabetta Peak, Tiger Hill and Ooty Lake are most popular attractions here.

Best season: Ooty is a welcome relief from October till June which makes it one of the most evergreen hill stations in India which could be visited throughout the year.

Shimla:

Things changed dramatically for Shimla when the Scottish civil servant Charles Kennedy built his summer home in Shimla in 1822. When the British arrived here there was nothing but wilderness and climate and surroundings which reminded them of their home, Shimla was soon developed into the official summer capital of the Raj in 1864.

Every summer till the last years of Raj, the entire East India Company and the government took refuge from sweltering heat of Delhi in cool and lush environs of Shimla. Construction of the Kalka–Shimla narrow gauge (now toy train) in 1903 cemented Shimla’s status as one of the leading hill stations of India.

Best Time: Shimla is best visited from October to June. In the summer, one could see rolling cotton wool peaks and during winter, you could frolic in snow and enjoy an array of snow sport and adventure activity. Shimla also happens to be one of the most popular places for honeymoon in India.

Mahabaleshwar:

Mahabaleshwar is perched atop a height of 1372 meters above sea level in Satara district, around 115 kilometers southwest of Pune. 25 in numbers, the ‘Points’ in Mahabaleshwar will give you breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys from different angle. In old times, Mahabaleshwar was known as Malcolm Peth and was under the influence of the foreign hands in the development of this hilly resort. Apart from that its princely past is reflected in the colonial mansions and palatial buildings that remind the visitor about the richness of artistic caliber of the bygone generation.

Known as Malcolm Peth in past, this hill station in Maharashtra will remind you of its glorious past with its colonial buildings, resplendent mansions. As the base of five lovely rivers, the scenic beauty of Mahabaleshwar presents awesome vistas, which enthralls the tourists. It is picturesque hill resort nestled in the lap of sky-scrapping mountain ranges of the Western Ghats. It offers a mesmerizing view of the soaring peaks, lush valleys, sparkling rivers and verdant forests.

 

The term Mahabaleshwar literally means great power and the scenic beauty of this hill town is a testimony to that name.  The hill town invites tourists, from all around the globe, to feel the respite of a tranquil and serene holiday spot. Mahabaleshwar offers a rejuvenating ambience where you can savor charming views of nature at its blooming best.  There are many things to do in Mahabaleshwar such as boating, horse riding, trekking and sunrise & sunset watching. Other than this, one can roam around the bazaars for shopping.

Best time: Mahabaleshwar is open for tourists throughout the year. However, October to June is considered the best time to visit this scenic hill town. If your passion is to enjoy the sizzles of nature in relaxed surroundings, Mahabaleshwar is where you should head to.

Darjeeling:

Nestled on the precipice of a mountain ridge and bounded by verdant plantations of globally renowned teas, Darjeeling is so not West Bengal. With jagged peaks of magnificent Himalayas offering spectacular panorama - you could even see the peak of Mount Kanchendzonga - Darjeeling is the place to be to savor unruffled luxury and to rejuvenate your senses.  You could also take Darjeeling Mountain Rail (popularly known as the Toy Train) to explore and soak in the magnificent surroundings of this scenic hill station in India.

As with most other hill stations in India which were the playgrounds of erstwhile British rulers during Raj, you could find colonial mansions and churches as well as recent structures such as Buddhist and Hindu temples and botanical gardens. The steep narrow streets are crowded with colorful souvenir and handicraft shops and a good steaming brew and excellent Indian and Tibetan fare are never far away. You could also choose from exciting trekking trails which trace ancient trade routes not to mention the breathtaking sights.

Best Time: Most tourists visit after the monsoon (October and November) and during spring (mid-March to the end of May) when skies are dry, panoramas are clear and temperatures are pleasant.

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Great Himalayan National Park

All About Great Himalayan National Park

Being inducted in 1999, Great Himalayan National Park also happens to be the latest addition to the list of National Parks in India. This sanctuary was initially declared a protected region in 1984. Located in the Kullu region in Himachal Pradesh, Great Himalayan National Park is bestowed with unique ecological aspect nestled in the Western Himalaya. The four valleys of the park are named Sainj Valley, Tirthan Valley, Jiwa Nal Valley and Parvati Valley.

Great Himalayan National Park is home to over 180 bird specials, some rare mammals that include Himalyan Brown Bear, musk deer and snow leopard along with a number of invertebrate, reptiles and rare amphibian species.

Location: Kullu in Himachal Pradesh

Highlights: 180 species of birds and rare mammals such as black bears, blue sheep, Himalayan Brown Bear, musk deer and snow leopard

National Park Area: 754 km² core area and a buffer zone of 5 km from the western boundary of the park which covers 265.6 sq km. and is also known as ecozone with home to around 1,500 households in 141 village.

Altitude: 1800 to 5200 meters above sea level

Eco-region: Sub tropical and Alpine Forest

Terrain: An array of dense ridges, deep gorges and precipitous cliffs, rugged cliffs, glaciers and narrow valleys.

Best Season: From April to June and between October-November

How to reach: Chandigarh is the nearest major railway station 296 km away. Or you can come all the way up to Joginder Nagar (143 km), in Mandi which is connected through a narrow gauge line to Pathankot. Take a cab or bus from here. Closest airport is Bhunter at 63 km

An introduction to the Great Himalayan National Park

Located in the upper reaches of Western Himalaya, Great Himalayan National Park is a delight for the new breed of ecotoursits, trekkers and adventure seekers. Verdant oak and rhododendron forest, gushing water streams and unpolluted air and sweeping view of pristine Himalayan peaks makes Great Himalayan National Park one of the ideal retreat from the hubbub of city and civilization.

Not only the natural profusion evident in the rich flora but the multitude of wildlife, both rare and elusive makes this national park a must visit for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts and trekkers.

Eco-tourism inside the Great Himalayan National Park

Great Himalayan National Park offers plenty of ecotourism activities. From relatively easy walks in ecozone inside the park to relatively easy, moderate and tough trekking trails spanning over several days, there are an array of ecotourism activities to choose from.

Habitat inside this National Park varies from lush Oak, Conifer and Rhododendron forests to alpine meadows and from sweeping valleys and gushing water streams to high altitude glaciers.

Ecozone

Ecozone is the reserve area inside the National Park where the locals reside. There are several day walks to acquaint you with the lifestyle and culture of the local people.

These day walks also give you a glimpse into the fact that how ecotourism could help balance the man vs. nature to preserve and sustain the fragile ecology.

The best time to visit for a glimpse into the local culture is during Dusshera festival in September-October when locals gather to celebrate their cultural ethos and tradition.

Treks and Hiking

Inside the Great Himalayan National Park, one could choose from 2-3 days easy to moderate hikes to moderate to tough treks to high altitude glaciers and alpine meadows.

It is mandatory for the tourists to acquire prior permission and permits from the park official for multi-day treks inside the park.

Some of the treks available inside the Great Himalayan National Park are:

Sainj Valley Trek
Duration: 5 Days
Grade: Easy to Moderate
Maximum Elevation: 3700 meters
Total Distance Covered: 66 km

Sainj - Tirthan Valley Trek
Duration: 8 Days
Grade: Moderate to Tough
Maximum Elevation: 4120 meters
Total Distance Covered: 85 km

Gushaini - Shilt Hut Hike
Duration: 3 Days
Grade: Easy to Moderate
Maximum Elevation: 3100 meters
Total Distance Covered: 30 km

Jiwa Nala - Parvati River Valley Trek
Duration: 7 Days
Grade: Tough
Maximum Elevation: 4636 meters
Total Distance Covered: 110 km

Gushaini - Tirhan Valley Trek
Duration: 8 Days
Grade: Moderate to Tough
Maximum Elevation: 4000 meters
Total Distance Covered: 76 km

Rakhtsar in Sainj Valley (Pin Parvati Trek)
Duration: 8 Days
Grade: Moderate to Tough
Maximum Elevation: 5319 meters
Total Distance Covered: 90 km

Trekking to other routes is also possible with the prior permission from the park officials.

Entry Fees for Great Himalayan National Park

Tourists visiting Great Himalayan national Park have to pay certain fee for entrance, belongings and purpose (camera/filming) of the visit. For Indian Nationals the entrance fee to this park is INR 50 per person per day. Additionally, they also need to pay INR 150 per day for carrying video camera for non-commercial purpose.

For Foreign Nationals, the entrance fee is fixed at INR 200 per person per day. For carrying non-commercial video camera, foreign national need to pay an extra amount of INR 300 per day.

Climate of the Great Himalayan National Park

The park is best visited in spring (April to June) and autumn (October-November). Rain during monsoon means that tourist should avoid visiting Great Himalayan National Park. During winter, even the low lying regions receive snowfall and the weather is extremely cold.

Wildlife in the Great Himalayan National Park

The rich biodiversity of this national park makes it a home of numerous birds and mammals species. Over 180 bird species, 30 mammals, various insects and reptiles and been found and recorded inside GHNP.

Mammals

Several common as well as rare species reside in the Great Himalayan National Park. Some of the most spotted mammals in the park include goat-antelope, Himalayan Goral and Himalayan Tahr. There has been rare spotting of Blue Sheep and Snow Leapord above the tree line. Other major mammals residing in the park include Asiatic Black Bear, Musk Deer, Barking Deer, Common Leopard and Himalayan Brown Bear.

Birds

One of the major attractions of Great Himalayan national Park is the numerous bird species found inside this park. Whereas Bearded Vulture, Golden Eagle and Himalayan Vulture are the common sightings in the park, it is also home to the endangered Western Tragopan.

Some important species in the Park are Long Tailed Minivets, Laughing Thrush, Golden Bush Robin, Black Throated Thrush, Yellow Bellied Fantails and Grey Winged Blackbirds among others.

Other common species of pheasants inside the park are White Crested Khaleej, Koklass, Himalayan Monal and Cheer Phesant.

Besides 50 species of birds also migrate each summer to the Great Himalayan national Park which include Eurasian Woodcock, several cuckoos, Oriental Turtle-dove, Ashy Drongo and Grey Nightjar among others.

How to reach Great Himalayan National Park

This national park is best visited by road as there is no train connectivity and even the nearest airport at Bhunter 63 kilometers away is not connected with major airports in India as hardly  any commercial airline have a connecting flight to Bhunter.

By Road
Great Himalayan National Park is well connected by road. It is located approximately 500 km from Delhi, 243 km from Shimla, 75 km from Kullu, 296 km from Chandigarh and 241 km from Dharamsala. Both state run and private bus service operate regularly from Delhi, Shimla, Chandigarh, Manali and Dharamsala.

From Delhi to Great Himalayan National Park is:
Delhi – Ambala (188 KM) – Chandigarh – Roopnagar (282 KM) – Kiratpur – Bilaspur (371 KM) – Mandi (440 KM) – Pandoh – Aut (481 KM) – Larji – Gushaini – Tirthan (511 KM).

By Train
There are 2 ways to reach Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) through train. First is to take the train to Chandigarh which is well connected through rail line with other major cities of India. From there one could travel by bus or hired taxi to GHNP.

Another way is to reach Pathankot by train which again is well connected by rail with other cities. From Pathankot, one could catch the narrow gauge train (popularly referred to as toy trains) till Joginder Nagar in Mandi which is 143 km away. It’s a 10 hours but scenic ride from Pathankot to Mandi.

A hired cab or bus from Joginder Nagar will take you to GMNP.

By Air
The nearest airport is at Bhunter located 63 kilometers away but it is not well connected with any major airline service.

Accommodation in Great Himalayan National Park
There are ample homestays in the ecozone where one could stay inside GHNP. Limited accommodation/camping options are available in Forest Rest House (3 rooms) and Community Training & Tourist Center (40 dormitory beds) in Sairopa, inspection huts and designated camping grounds at select places along the hiking trails.

If you are planning for multi day trek in the park, it is always advisable that you carry tents, sleeping bags, insulated mats, cooking equipments etc.

General Information of Great Himalayan National Park

- It is required to seek prior permission to enter GHNP
- The number of tourist inside this national park is regulated due to its fragile ecosystem
- You might be required to pay for personal photography
- Filming and photo shoot for commercial requires additional fees and permit
- All multi day treks requires certified guides and porters
- Trekkers need to produce their trekking route to the park officials before entering GHNP
- Foreign Visitors on multi day trekking must carry their travel insurance documents in case emergency   medical or evacuation in needed.

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Tips for women travellers in India

Some women travellers, and especially solo women travellers, are reassessing their travel plans in India following the fatal rape of a local Delhi woman, and the gang rape of a Swiss tourist. These much-publicised Delhi cases have sparked protests and opened up discussion about violence against women in India and new legislation has subsequently been passed. You're very unlikely to experience violent crime as a woman traveller in India; it’s sexual harassment that you may experience – more so in tourist towns and larger cities in the north of the country. Rude comments, voyeurism, and men ‘brushing against’ or groping women are all common. Come prepared for this: be ready to make a fuss when it happens, and don’t let it put you off experiencing beautiful, chaotic India.

What's the current advice for women travellers to India?

Although crimes against women in India, including foreigners, are on the rise, incidents are still rare. Foreign governments give a wide range of advice on travelling to India. Canada advises its citizens simply to avoid travelling alone, especially at night, on public transportation or in remote or unlit areas; Australia and the UK give similar advice, recommending that women 'exercise caution'. Only the US advises women against all solo travel in India, noting that verbal and physical harassment by men is commonly reported by foreigners, especially by those of African descent. Indeed, much more frequent than rape are sexual harassment and molestation, which are, alas, not uncommonly experienced by travellers – more so in tourist towns and larger cities in the north of the country. These can range from rude comments to voyeurism to men 'brushing against' women as they walk by to outright groping. The more physical incidents tend to happen in busy areas, like crowded trains or markets, or during festivals. (The festival of Holi, in which coloured powder – which can be temporarily blinding – is tossed about, is notorious for this.)

What about travelling solo?

Don't rule out travelling solo. Inconveniences and annoyances are more frequently encountered than criminal behaviour, and many travellers don’t have any trouble at all. If a disturbing situation does arise, remember two things: firstly, if you think something weird just happened, it probably did; and secondly, make sure you speak up! Creating a fuss, especially on public transportation, will shame the creepy guy and will likely rally your fellow passengers to your aid. In situations that are just uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to find a new spot on the bus, or take a different train/bus/sidewalk/hotel room altogether. Don’t be afraid of speaking out. In situations that have become dangerous, call 100 for police. Take time to observe local customs during your stay, and especially on your arrival: behaviour and clothing that mean one thing back home may mean something totally different in India, and you may unwittingly send the wrong messages. First-time travellers to India may want to consider starting trips off with a homestay, where you can learn invaluable lessons about culture and safety the easy way. One of the joys of travelling solo in India is that you're more likely to be 'adopted' by families, especially if you're commuting together on a long rail journey. It's a great opportunity to make friends and get a deeper understanding of local culture.

 

What simple steps can women travellers take to feel safer?

Although there’s no proven link between revealing dress and sex crimes, in India western standards of dress can be seen as an invitation to hassle. In a UN Women survey of women, girls, men and boys in Delhi, 75% of the men and boys agreed with the statement 'women provoke men by the way they dress'. Dressing modestly is also considered respectful in India for both men and women, so avoid sleeveless tops, shorts, miniskirts (ankle-length skirts are best) and anything skimpy, see-through or tight. A dupatta (long scarf) can be worn over T-shirts — or anything, really — and helps deflect attention. Many Indian women dress as they like, rightfully finding these codes oppressive and believing that the onus should be on others not to assault or harass women. But foreigners attract a lot of attention as it is, and most travellers find that dressing modestly just makes things easier.

Few Practical tips

1. When travelling by overnight train, choose an upper berth to avoid prospective gropers and have more privacy. (Many travellers report better luck with more expensive train seats, which have fewer passengers per car.)

2. Avoid eye contact and chit-chat with unknown men: both can be misinterpreted.

3. Ride in women’s cars on trains, where they exist, and try to book seats near the front of long-distance buses. Sit next to other women when possible.

4. Wear a T-shirt and long shorts over a bathing suit when swimming, following local custom.

5. Avoid public transportation at night, and never ride in empty buses or trains at night.

6. Use taxis with call services at night; don’t flag them down in the street, especially if you’re alone.

7. Travelling with a companion may ward off advances, especially if your companion is male. (Mentioning your husband frequently – whether or not you have one – may also help.)

8. Wear sunglasses: people will stare at you, no matter what.

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Top 10 Places to See While Visiting India

India is the second most populated country in the world with approximately 1.2 billion citizens. The country has a rich and storied history that captivates people from around the world. As such, India is steadily growing as a tourist destination. Both citizens and foreign visitors flock to India’s most popular landmarks every year.

1. The Taj Mahal, Agra

One cannot think of tourist spots in India without considering the Taj Mahal. With nearly 4 million tourists arriving at the Taj Mahal every year, it is considered to be the most visited attractoin in the country. Built between 1632-1653 in honor of Mumtaz Mahal, the wife of the Mogul Emporer Shah Jahan, the Taj Mahal is often listed as one of the Wonders of the World and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. The Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya

Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, was said to have achieved enlightenment at this spot in Bodh Gaya. Near the temple is the Mahabodhi Tree.

3. Tomb of Humayun, Nizamuddin East, Delhi

This tomb to the Mugal Emperor Humayun was commissioned in 1562 and was built over the course of eight years. If you are traveling to Delhi, you should consider visiting this tomb, as it has undergone extensive restoration in recent years.

4. The Beaches of Goa

Goa is one of the most visited spots in all of India, accounting for approximately 12 percent of the country’s tourist revenue. The most popular spots to visit in Goa are the many beaches, particularly those in North Goa. Anjuna, Baga, and Calungute draw the largest number of tourists, though beaches in Southern Goa, like those in Varca, are becoming increasingly known for hosting world class resorts.

5. Lotus Temple, New Delhi


Those taking flights to Delhi cannot pass through without paying a visit to the Lotus Temple. Formally called the Baha’i House of Worship, Lotus Temple is given its nickname due to the unusual shape of the building.

6. Mysore Palace, Mysore


The second most visited tourist attraction in India, Mysore welcomes about 2.7 million visitors annually. The palace welcomes the most tourists in September and October during the Mysore Dasara festival. During the festival, the palace is decorated with nearly 100,000 lights to pay homage to the Goddess Durga.

7. Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

Gulmarg is known for its winter sports. A popular tourist destination between December and March, skiing enthusiasts can choose from one of over 40 hotels in the region.

8. Elephanta Caves, Elephanta Island, Mumbai


Located about six miles from Mumbi, the Elephanta Caves are a group of five Hindu caves and two Buddhist caves that contain intricately carved stone sculptures.

9. Harimandir Sahib, Armritsar, Punjab

The Harimandir Sahib is popularly known as the Golden Temple due to the fact that the upper floors are covered in gold. The construction Harimandir Sahib was completed in 1604, but attacks left it seriously damaged until the time that it was rebuilt in 1764.



10. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Tamil Nadu

This steam locomotive railway system passes through 26 miles of land over the course of about nine hours. Tourists can pass over 250 bridges and can enjoy the steepest train track in Asia.

Have you been to India? If so, please share your tips and favorite places to see in the comments!

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Top 10 Wildlife Sanctuaries in India

India is blessed with enchanting wildlife sanctuaries which consist of beautiful floral and fauna. More amazing is the animal wealth of India. Sadly, many of them are getting extinct rapidly. Thus wildlife sanctuaries in India as well as national parks aid in preserving the wildlife of India.  Watching untamed wildlife in its real and natural habitat is a treat and the destinations mentioned below offer the visitors to indulge in just that.

1. Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand

The Corbett National Park in Uttaranchal is undoubtedly the most sought after and popular wildlife tourist destinations of India. The oldest national park of Asia has had many documentaries made in its entourage. It is active in the Government of India’s initiative to protect the endangered and soon becoming extinct Tigers. The park has derived its name from the writer Jim Corbett, whose wildlife stories are very popular and unique as the park’s history itself.

2. Kaziranga National Park, Assam

The Kaziranga National Park in the state of Assam is one of the finest national parks that are working actively in conserving the rare One Horned Indian Rhinoceros. There are a lot of Rhinos in the park as well as some of the rarest breeds of wildlife of North East India. Kaziranga boasts the highest density of tigers among protected areas in the world and was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2006. The Kaziranga National Park is situated between the two districts of Assam, namely, Nagaon and Gola ghat.

3. Bandipur National Park, Karnataka

The famous Bandipur National Park is a famous national park of south India. It is located in the state of Karnataka. It is home to the Asian Elephants and one can see them in their natural habitat. It is placed in between the Deccan Plateau and the regal Western Ghats. Lush greenery and awesome backdrops make the Bandipur National Park the most beautiful national parks of India. The place is almost 80 km away from Mysore and Ooty and almost 215 km away from Bangalore.

4. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh

The Bandhavgarh National Park is one of the most prolific national parks of Madhya Pradesh. It is also one of the most visited national parks of India, and rightly so. Located 197 km away from Jabalpur, it is quite easily reachable. The Bandhavgarh National Park is definitely one of the best places to visit to enlighten oneself of the preserved wildlife of India.

5. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Kanha National Park is another of the famous national parks of Madhya Pradesh. It was established in the year 1955. The park has garnered a lot of attention due to its efforts in saving the rare and almost extinct species – the Swamp Deer, also known as Barasingha. It is also one of the best maintained parks in the whole of Asia. The other feature of the Kanha National Park is the Bamni Dadar, another name for Sunset Point. The view from this point, of the animals grazing, etc is something that the visitors never forget in their lifetimes.

6. Gir National Park and  Sasan Gir Sanctuary, Gujarat

The Gir National Park and the Sasan Gir Sanctuary of Gujarat are the only places in India having Asiatic Lions. The best time to visit the place and watch some lions strolling by is between the months of October and June. The park was established on 18th September, 1965 and had especially come up to preserve the rare Asiatic Lions. The National Park as well as the sanctuary has lots of rivers, streams, rocky hills as well as deep ravines.

7. Keoladeo Ghana National Park – Bharatpur, Rajasthan

The Keoladeo Ghana National Park in Bharatpur, Rajasthan was formerly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. The prolific national park houses many varieties of thousands of bird species. These flock in the winters and thus is the best season to visit the national park. Visitors get first hand knowledge on the various types of birds of India and get to see them in real life. It is the best trip for families who have school going children. They may have just learnt about the birds in their school books and this would be the perfect opportunity for a real life experience.

8. Periyar National Park, Kerala

The Periyar National Park is a very famous national park of southern India. It is located in God’s own country, Kerala and covers a total land area of 925 sq. km. It was established in the year 1950 as a wildlife sanctuary. It got transferred as a tiger reserve in the year 1982. The Periyar National Park is on the hills of Western Ghats and thus there is lush greenery everywhere. The animals live in their natural habitat. The main animals found here are elephants, Tigers, Nilgiri Tahrs, Nilgiri Langurs, etc.

9. Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Nestled in the lower side of the Satpura hills, the Pench National Park sits beautifully. Established in the year 1975, the sanctuary was declared as a National Park due to its importance and role in giving shelter to many animal and bird species. The river Pench flows through the park and that is how the Pench national park got its name.

The major inhabitants of the park are sambhar, nilgai, wild boar, striped hyena, gaur, chowsingha and barking deer, and birds like  red-vented bulbul, racket-tailed drongo, magpie robins etc.

10. Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan

The Ranthambore National Park is situated in the south of Rajasthan, in the Sawai Madhopur district. Located at a distance of almost 130 km away from the nearest city of Jaipur, the Ranthambore National Park is one of the most celebrated national parks of not only Rajasthan, but the whole of India.

Source: Thrillophilia Team Blog

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Top 10 beaches in India

India has some of the most beautiful beaches of the world spread across its vast coastline.

Treat yourself with an Indian beach holiday - seafood having a wide range of cuisines, spas and massage parlors to relax you, wide variety of water sports as scuba diving, water skiing and wind surfing.

We present to you the top 10 beach destinations in India.

As summer approaches, people head to the beaches, to enjoy the beautiful seaside weather, the soft sand and to cool off in the sea.

 

India has a coastline of over 7,500 km, with some of the most stunning beaches, which are ideal holiday locations for sea lovers. 

 

So before you plan your next seaside vacation, check out the 10 must visit beach destinations in our country.

1. Baga Beach, Goa

Baga Beach is located in North Goa, 16 kilometers from Panaji, the state capital. 

 

 

Thousands of tourists from India and around the world visit this popular destination every year. The beach shacks at Baga are ideal hangouts to unwind over drinks and exotic seafood. The beach also has attractions such as water sports and dolphin cruise for adventure lovers.

 

Best time to visit: October to May

 

2. Mandarmani, West Bengal

 

Mandarmani is an isolated beach located in East Medinipur, one of the southern districts of West Bengal. It is almost 180km from Kolkata airport.

 

Away from the hustle-bustle of city life, this newly developed destination has become a tourist hotspot. This 13 km long sea-beach on the Bay of Bengal coast offers plenty of accommodation options for tourists with budget hotels, resorts and other lodging facilities.

 

Best time to go: Anytime except the monsoon season

 

3. Chera, Cochin

The lovely and shallow Cherai beach is located 25 kms from Kochi city in Kerala.

The beach has become one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Kerala because of the unique blend of sea on one side and backwaters on the other side .The calm seawater makes it ideal for swimming and occasionally dolphins are also seen at Cherai.  Tourists also enjoy boating on the beautiful backwaters, just a few minutes away from the beach.

 

Best time to visit: September to March

4. Kovalam, South Kerala

Kovalam beach, located in south Kerala, comprises three adjacent crescent beaches separated by rocky outcroppings. It is 16 km from Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city.

 

There are plenty of leisure options for tourists such as Ayurvedic massage centres, catamaran cruises, shopping zones around the beach complex. The calm water is ideal for swimming and many foreign tourists frequent this popular destination.

 

Best time to visit: Kovalam has a tropical dry climate and September to March is the best time to head there.

5. Tarkarli beach

The beach embracing the Arabian Sea is 546 km away from Mumbai, on the west coast of India.
 

The long and narrow stretch of beach with clear blue waters has been attracting tourists in recent times.  On a sunny day, one can see the seabed up to a depth of 20 feet    

 

For adventure water sports lovers, snorkelling and scuba diving facilities are also available at Tarkarli.

 

Best Time: November to April

 

6. Radhanagar Beach, Havelock island

This beach also known, as Beach No. 7, is located on Havelock Island in the Andaman and Nicober Islands. It has been voted as one of the most popular beaches in Asia by a popular travel magazine.

The calm waters and the scenic surroundings make it the perfect gateway for relaxation. Nature lovers can also explore the wide range of flora and fauna around the beach.

 

Best time: Anytime except monsoon

 

7. Karaikal

 

The beautiful blue waters of Bay of Bengal at Karaikal, provides a fantastic view of the sea.

 

Located in Pondicherry, Karaikal beach is frequented by tourists mainly because of the breathtaking view of the confluence of Arasalar River and the sea.

 

The nearest airport is Trichy (Trichirapalli), nearest railway station is at Nagore.

 

Best time: September to March

 

8. Mandrem

 

Mandrem is a beautiful isolated beach, located in North Goa.

It is considered to be a haven for newly married couples because of its secluded location. Nearby Mandrem are Ashvim and Morjim beaches, famous for turtle nesting.

 

For accommodation there are hut camps and hotels all around the beach

 

Best time to go: October to April

 

9.  Palolem

 

Palolem beach is located in south Goa, 76 kilometers from Panaji, the state's capital. The beach, surrounded by thick forest of coconut trees, is popular with tourists from India as well as abroad. 

 

Palolem offers plenty for tourists, including relaxation and adventure. There is a market just behind the beach that sells jewelry, clothes, and souvenirs. Tourists can also visit Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, which is close by.

 

Best time to go: September to May

 

10. Murud

Murud beach, which is 140 km away from Mumbai, is a popular summer destination for beach lovers.

 

Nestled between palm trees on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other, the beach is a sight to watch. Murud is also famous for its proximity to the Janjira Fort, a famous sea fort that has never been conquered. There is plenty on offer for seafood lovers at Murud. Hotels and resorts are available for lodging along the beach.

 

Best time to visit: September to May

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Top 10 must see cities in India in 2013

Top 10 must see cities in India in 2013

1. Kashmir-  The Paradise on Earth
After visiting Kashmir, people often struggle to describe it since adjectives like, beautiful and awesome don’t seem to do it any justice. For lack of a better superlative, Kashmir is generally described as Heaven or paradise on Earth.  Kashmir is at the peak of the map of India and is surrounded by the Great Himalayas and the Pir Panjal mountain range. The valley’s beauty is enhanced by the truly spell bounding lakes, fresh water streams, delicious apple orchards, mighty ice capped mountains and lush meadows. Adding some spectacular views, Lush green surroundings, fresh non polluted mountain air and scenic landscapes makes Kashmir one of the best places to visit in India.

Also if you are an adventure junkie, Kashmir has its share of adrenaline pumping activities like Water Rafting, Trekking, Winter Sports, Wetlands, Wildlife, etc.

All in all, Kashmir has something for everyone. So be it Adventure fanatics, spirituality or just holiday revelers, Kashmir is sure to satisfy everyone. So don’t wait and visit this amazing tourist destination or at least put it on your bucket list.

2. Ladakh- The Moon land
A close second to Kashmir, there probably is no other place in the world quite like this travel destination. Set high up in the Himalaya’s at 3,000 m (9,800 ft), Ladakh is a plateau in the Indus Valley between the Karakoram mountain range in the north and the main Great Himalayas to the south. Its altitude ranges from 9000 to 25000 feet.

Ladakh is renowned for its remote mountain beauty and culture. It’s sometimes referred as “Moon land” & “Little Tibet” because of its natural barren beauty landscape and inhabitation by Tibetan people respectively. The main source of water is winter snowfall, this feeds the glaciers from which melt water, carried down by streams, irrigates the fields in summer.

3. Goa- God’s heaven on Earth
The common quote “Good things come in small packages” holds true for Goa since in terms of geographical area, Goa is the smallest state in India. However that doesn’t stop it from being the best places to visit in India attracting more than 2 million visitors annually.  With its pretty beaches, awesome seafood, vivid nightlife, picturesque churches and water sports, it’s not hard to figure out why.

And the fun does’nt stop just there. Goa has oodles of activities you can indulge in depending on your choice and taste. If you are a bit on the laidback side, then you can just idle away time on popular beaches like Anjuna Beach and Baga Beach or visit some of the awesome churches. If you are looking for your dose of adrenaline, you can indulge in water sports like paragliding, windsurfing, jet skiing and lots more.  If food and drink makes your day, try out some of the sumptuous seafood (our pick Goan fish curry!) and the famous Fenny (Goan Liquor) at your disposal.

 4. Kerala- God’s own Country

Not including tourist places in south India would not make this list complete. And they don’t come any better than Kerala. Kerala offers a very unique travel experience; it is famous for its natural beauty, amazing white sand beaches, delicious sea food, ayurvedic health resorts, enchanting art forms, magical festivals, cultural monuments and backwaters.

Backwaters which are a chain of lagoons are an integral part of Kerala’s Tourism Scenario and provide a really relaxing experience. Linked by a myriad of manmade and natural canals, they criss cross half of the length of Kerala. The ever popular houseboats navigate this labyrinth giving you amazing views and a sense of calm which rejuvenates your mind and body.  Must visit places along these backwaters include Kumarakom (bird sanctuary), Astamudi Lake (largest fresh water lake) and Kannur-Valiyaparambu (scenic beauty).

5. Rajasthan- The Land of Royals

The mere mention of Rajasthan conjures up images and visions of the Maharajas, Rajputana, Brave and fearless Rajput warriors, Breathtaking Palaces and Forts along with royal hospitality and splendor.  If there is one place that can transport you into a bygone era, it has to be Rajasthan.

Decked with monuments covered in history, Rajasthan is home to some of the most stunning places you can see. Be it Jaipur the capital, the famous lakes and palace of Udaipur, the barren but beautiful desserts of Bikaner, the blue hued Jaisalmer or the high hill station Mt Abu, Rajasthan’s bag of surprises are never-ending.  Combined with ASI’s amazing preservation work, most of the monuments, forts and palaces of Rajasthan still seem like time capsules where time has stood still.

6. Mumbai- The city of Dreams

Think Mumbai and you think Glitz, Glamour, Movies, Fashion, Finance and of course Bhel Puri. Probably one of the most cosmopolitan cites in India, Mumbai is as diverse an experience as you can imagine.  Dotted with impressive old monuments like Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, architectural masterpieces like the splendid Taj Mahal Hotel and the famous skyscrapers which dominate the Mumbai skyline; this is a city full of surprises and a tourist’s delight

For the foodies, Mumbai boasts of some amazing street food like Pav Bhaji, Bhelpuri, Vada Pao and Pani puri. Although the hygiene standards might not be top class, the taste of the street food makes it worth a try. In case you feel adventurous and have a strong stomach, head over to Khau Galli where you are sure to find some of the best street foods in Mumbai.

7. Kodaikanal-Princess of Hill Stations

Yet another awesome tourist place in South India makes it to our list. For it’s hard to pronounce name, Kodaikanal is one of the most peaceful and popular hill-stations situated on the Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu, about 120 kms away from Madurai.  Originally served as a refuge for the British Bureaucrats to escape from the hot plains, it has now blossomed into a popular summer retreat.

In Tamil language Kodaikanal name means “The Gift of the Forest”. Kodaikanal has many places of interest. Everywhere you go, you are surrounded with enchanting waterfalls and scenic  beauty which sometimes seem straight out of a dream.

Kodaikanal has beautiful tourist attractions which are sure to wow you. The most popular one is Kodaikanal Lake (star-shaped man-made lake), bicycles and horses are available for rent at this lake to ride around the lake), Bryant Park or the Botanical Garden, Coaker’s Walk (1 km pedestrian path running along the edge of steep slopes on the southern side of Kodai), Bear Shola waterfall, Green valley view, Shembaganur museum and Guna caves are some of the other major attractions of Kodaikanal.

8. Darjeeling- Visitor’s Paradise

This list wouldn’t be complete without including this tourist destination. Starting from its humble beginnings as a cluster of villages, this was the first hill station established by the British.  Located in the state of West Bengal, Darjeeling is famous for its natural beauty, tea production, trekking and awe inspiring views of Kanchenjunga ( 3^rdhighest peak in India)

Darjeeling is speckled with some interesting and must visit tourist attractions. Some of the remarkable places to visit in Darjeeling are Tiger Hill (gives an immense view of Peak Kanchenjunga during sun-rise), Zoo, Mahakal Temple, Singalila National Park (trekking destination), Buddhist monasteries and the Himalayan Zoo.

9.Agra-City of Taj

A city that has three of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites is hard to keep out of this list. Located at the banks of Yamuna River, Agra is about 200 kms away from New Delhi.  From its early references in the Mahabharata to being the capital of the Mughal Empire, Arga is a city that shines with examples of intricate Mughal Architecture wherever you look.

The Taj Mahal probably is best described by Rabindranath Tagore as “a teardrop on the cheek of eternity”.Attracting thousands of tourists in a day, the Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Built in 23 years with the help of over 20000 workers, it is so perfectly designed and constructed that it looks similar from all its four sides. The Quranic inscriptions on its four entrances are carved in such subtle increase in size that may appear to be of the same size from top to bottom. Craftsmen from Italy and Persia were hired by Shah Jahan to help design his tribute of love to his wife. These and many more reasons make this monument a crowning achievement in Mughal architecture.

10.The Andaman and Nicobar Islands

This tourist destination might not be one everyone’s list and also off the beaten track. However that does’nt means it should be missed. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a group of islands which lie in the Bay of Bengal. The Andaman is separated to the north while Nicobar separated towards the south. Both the islands have been separated from Thailand and Burma by the Andaman Sea. Although these islands are one of the remote places on the planet, their beauty makes them a must visit destination.

Initially the islands were populated mainly by the local people who comprise of a bunch of aboriginal tribes some of which are totally cut off from the world. Port Blair does not have a glory past where it was used as a jail for rebels and freedom fighters by the Britishers. However contrary to that gory detail, the Andaman and Nicobar islands have some of the most beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters and a good list of things to do along with places to visit.

Source:
http://www.incredibleindiatravels.in

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Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations in India

Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations in India

1. Manali: Manali, "Land of the Gods” is the popular tourist destination located in the Northern state of India - Himachal Pradesh. Manali is a romantic and beautiful hill resort nested in the lap of the majestic Himalayas. It is a splendid destination for a honeymoon. Fruit orchards, splendid mountains, deodar and pine forests, caves and temples all around in Manali makes an excellent destination for a honeymoon.

                                  

Best time to visit: April to June and post-monsoon during the months of September- November.  

2. Munnar: Munnar is a misty and lush green hill station situated on high ranges of the Western Ghats in “Gods Own Country” - Kerala. It is a refreshing place to visit at most times of year and is located in Idukki District of Kerala. Munnar has cool climate, calm atmosphere and is surrounded by the scenery hills and greenery, which attracts the honeymooners throughout the year.

Best time to visit: during the months of September-May.

3. Shimla: Shimla is one of the most famous hill stations and popular honeymoon destinations of India, located in the state of Himachal Pradesh . Shimla has pleasant climate and picturesque green hills with snow peaks, which attracts the most of the honeymooners.

                                   

Best time to visit: during the months of September - December and April – June.

4. Ooty: Ooty is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in South India, located in Tamilnadu. It is also known as "Queen of the hills" and is surrounded by Beautiful hills, and Botanical Gardens. Ooty is the short-form used for Ootacamund, is nestled in the Nilgiri Hills or "Blue Mountains".

                                    
Best time to visit: during the months of April - June and September - November.

5. Kodaikanal: Kodaikanal, which means “A Gift of the Forest”- located in the Palini Hills of the Western Ghats of Tamilnadu. Kodaikanal is referred as the princess of Hill stations. It is surrounded with deep green valleys, waterfalls, lakes and trekking trails, which makes it an ideal honeymoon destination.

                                 
Best time to visit: During April - June and September – October.

6. Mysore: Mysore is an ideal honeymoon destination of  India which provides a sense of serenity and peace among the beauty of its palaces, temples, gardens, lakes. It is situated in the state of karnataka– India.

                                      

Best time to visit: during the months of March – June.

7. Goa: Goa is one of the most popular and romantic honeymoon destinations of India, located in the state of Goa. Goa is renowned for its beautiful beaches, heritage buildings, greenery and churches/temples.

                                      

Best time to visit: during the months of September – May.

8. Coorg: Coorg or Kodagu is one of the popular hill stations surrounded by beautiful landscapes in the majestic Western Ghats of karnataka state. Coorg has many tall hills and is also concerned as" Scotland of India".

                                      

Best time to visit: during the months of April – November.

9. Darjeeling: Darjeeling is another top most honeymoon destinations of India located in West Bengal.

                                       

Best time to visit: during the months of April – June.

10. Lakshadweep Island: Is a beautiful destination with islands and romantic beaches.

                                  

Best time to visit: during the months of November and May.

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