Top 10 Indian Destinations with their Specialties

India, a country with its glorious past and glaring present, has a bamboozling charisma that fascinates thousands of global nomads every year to plan their tour to India. The country displays an in-your-face diversity in every walk of life and even in landscapes and seasons. From snow dusted mountains to sun bathed beaches, peaceful temples to lively festivals, lantern-lit villages to software-supremo cities, every shade of human civilization can be seen in this diversely unified country of India. From Kashmir to Kanyakumari and from Gujarat to Assam, every part of India has its own specialties which distinguish the one from the other. The following are top 10 Indian destinations famous for their very own specialty:-

Delhi

Red Fort in New Delhi

With its medieval monuments, spiritual shrines, colorful street markets and modern urban developments, you can still hear the saga of medieval India in each corner of Delhi. The culture of the city is so rich that it could blend with any culture without losing its own colors. Apart from the colorful culture and different historical monuments in this capital city, it has two other special features also- its variety of foods and its local markets. The Mughal and north Indian food varieties of Delhi and its buzzing local markets are the best two things that still cloaked the traditional culture of the city.

 Jaipur

Hawa Mahal in Jaipur

The city of Jaipur, often referred to as the ‘Pink City’, is an all-time favorite to the travelers for its forts, palaces and royal lifestyle. The Rajputana lifestyle and royalty is still visible in ever detailing of the city which sets it apart from the other cities of the deserted state of Rajasthan. Moreover, Jaipur is also famous for its puppetry culture and handicraft items. So, whenever you plan a tour to Jaipur, Don’t forget to take a trip to the local markets and spend one or two hours of your evening time watching a puppetry show.

Agra

Tajmahal In Agra

Taj Mahal, the monument that immortalizes a king’s love for his beloved queen, is not only a pride of Agra but of entire India. Taj Mahal is the signature monument of Agra and the prime attraction of this city. Taj is also one of the brilliant manifestations of Mughal Dynasty’s design aesthetics. The best time to visit this splendid place is in the early morning. The shimmering fresh rays of sun glamorize the beauty of Taj which never fails to impress the visitors. The marble stone items of Agra are also famous worldwide; you can take a roam to the markets of the city to bag pack some fabulous marble items along with you.

Varanasi

Ganga Aarti in Varanas

One of the oldest living cities in the world, Varanasi or Banaras is the ultimate destination for the spiritual peace seekers around the world. It is a melting pot where life and death meet each-other. Ghats of the river Ganges, the fleet of temples and the shrine of Lord Buddha are the prime attractions of this ancient Indian city. Moreover, the Banarasi pan (a chewing mouth freshener made up of betel leaf, betel nut and other mouth fresheners) and Banarasi saree catches the attraction of every traveler. The Banarasi sarees are also a part and pride of rich Indian tradition.

Kerala

Munnar Hill Stations in Kerala

 The very beauty and specialty of Kerala lies in its natural world only. The backwaters and the palm groves cast a magic spell on every traveler who travels through this land. Moreover, the bewitching sights of Athirapally waterfalls infuse freshness to every tired soul. The classical idea of ‘Picturesque’ finds a true embodiment in the form of this waterfall. Kerala is also one of the best seats for spa and Ayurvedic massage therapy. A host of resorts and hotels are there in Kerala that provide top-notch Spa and Ayurvedic therapies to the guests.

Goa

Goa Beach

There is no doubt that the golden sandy beaches are the prime attractions of Goa, but the night life and casinos will also make you fall in love with this place. The identity of the state is rooted in deep enjoyment of food and drink. Different restaurants serve sumptuous sea food varieties and native Goan beverages. As the Portuguese ruled the land for a long period of time, so their influence in architecture and lifestyle is also reflected in Goa.

Kolkata

Victoria Memorial Kolkata

Music and art characterizes the city culture of Kolkata, or to a broader sense of entire West Bengal. The Visva-Bharati University in West Bengal, founded by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore is an institute of National importance. To preserve the art and culture of the country and to give a scope to the young minds to explore their own world of creativity, this University offers a number of courses and materials. Popularly known as Shantiniketan, this university presents well the cultural heritage of the country to its visitors. Furthermore, while you are into a tour to Kolkata, you might not want to miss to taste the world famous sweet ‘roshogolla’ which is very own of this city.

Bandhavgarh
 

Bandhavgarh National Park

With its impenetrable forest land and its valorous Bengal tiger, the vicinity of Bandhavgarh in Madhya Pradesh is a heaven for the wild photographers, adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. The Bandhavgarh National Park is home to around 250 species of birds, the Bengal tigers and various other species of flora and fauna. The Bandhavgarh fort is a witness to the thousands of year old culture of the country. This national park is one of the best tiger reserves in the world and thus thousands of travelers come to this place every year to get a glimpse of the jungle king.

Assam

Kaziranga National Park in Assam

The two most appealing attractions of the Indian state of Assam are its far stretching tea plantations and its unique one horned rhinoceros. The blessing of Mother Nature can be seen in every part of the sate with its rich natural resources and a pampering weather throughout the year. The Majuli Island in the river Brahmaputra in Assam also turned out to be a tourist attraction for its rustic lifestyle out of the reach of modern vanity. Apart from nature and wildlife, the Bihu song and dance of Assam made an international appeal for its grandeur and colorfulness. 

 Kashmir

Shikara Ride in Kashmir

People may call it ‘paradise on earth’ or ‘princely state’, the Kashmir region never fails to spell its magic charm on the visitors. Its scenic beauty is the prime attraction of Kashmir. Though this part of the country has witnessed many invasions from time to time, it has still well restored its charisma and charm. The handicraft industry of Kashmir is also very rich and has a uniqueness of its own. Those who come in a tour to Kashmir, take these handicraft items as a memento of the land.

The uniqueness of different regions of India together presents the unity and diversity of the country. Each state and regions with their own characteristics are the gem stones in the casket of India. Come, feel and share the magnificence of this country in a luxury holiday tour to India.

Top 10 Hidden Destinations in India

Thirst to know the unknown and explore the unexplored often leads to great discoveries and innovations. The world is full of mysteries and travelling is the best way to unlock this mysterious box. 

By area basis India may be the seventh largest country in the world, but it is one of the richest in terms of culture, color, diverse landscapes and natural resources. 

Every year millions of travelers from all around the world plan their tour to India to explore the romanticism hidden in it; still there are various hidden places in the country that are less explored. The following are the top 10 hidden destinations in India that can present this mysterious country quite well:-

1. Cherrapunji

Cherrapunji

Just 56 kilometer away from the state capital Shillong (capital of Meghalaya), Cherrapunji is truly a heaven’s garden away from the reach of collapsing city life.

This natural abode is characterized by heavy rainfall, impenetrable woody hills and the white feathery waterfalls. A walk on the clouds may appear dreamy, but it is possible in Cherrapunji.

The sky scrapping hills offer a view of the lush green area, the floating clouds and the rustic lifestyle of the local residents.

2. Majuli

Majuli

In the seven sister’s region (North-East) only there is another natural wonder. Majuli in Assam is the largest river island on earth nestled amid the river Brahmaputra.

Declared by UNESCO as a world natural heritage, this river island has preserved well the antique weapons, utensils, jewelry and other items of cultural significance of the hundreds of year old Assamese civilization. The natives of Majuli are worshipers of Mother Nature; agriculture and fishing are the prime source of earning for the local people.

3. Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves 

Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves

In the Indian state of Odisha the Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves are the earliest group of Jain rock-cut shelters. A feed for the eyes, these caves are of high importance preserving history, rock-cut architecture, art and religion.

The wall carvings and rock-cut painting in these caves tell us much about the origin and development of Jainism.

4. Tarkarli Beach 

Tarkarli Beach

Take a few hours’ drive from Mumbai and you will reach the land of pristine waters, Tarkarli. Located at the convergence of river Karli and Arabian Sea, Tarkarli gives you a clearer picture of the sea water.

It is a heaven for the adventure lovers who love to do snorkeling and scuba diving. You can still feel the tranquil whispering of the sea waves in this less tourist frequented beach of Maharashtra.

5. Wayanad 

Wayanad

The majestic rugged terrain of Western Ghats is the main attraction of this district town in the Indian state of Kerala. The land of Wayanad is blessed by different spices and crops such as coffee, pepper, ginger, areca nut etc.

The early remains found in Wayanad bear witness to its thousands of year old existence. The nature is well restored in this part of Kerala and thus planning your next tour to this region will surely be a good option for the peace lovers.

6. Bhimbetka Rock Shelters 

Bhimbetka Rock Shelters

Declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Center, the rock shelters of Bhimbetka talk much of the 30,000 years old existence of human civilization in this part of India.

Comparatively the terrain of Bhimbetka is less explored and thus spending a holiday vacation in this part of the country could be a good idea for knowledge seekers. The magic spell of nature can also be felt in the vicinity of Bhimbetka.

7. Daman & Diu

Daman & Diu

Enclosed by Gujarat, Daman & Diu is the 2nd smallest Union Territory in India. The reflections of both Gujarati and Portuguese lifestyle can be seen in this part of the country.

The far stretching shoreline adds on enchanting charm to this beautiful abode. Dotted by forts and churches, Daman & Diu is a good choice for those who want to explore the unexplored.

8. Pangong Tso

Pangong Tso

One of the best things that the film ‘3 Idiots’ does for the tourist is that it has presented the scenic beauty of Leh & Ladakh. Located in a high altitude in the Himalayan Ranges, the salty water of Kumarakom lake is bluer than blue ever was, clearer than clear ever could be, purer than the purest and is certainly regal.

Presenting a fine fusion of land, water and the cloud kissing mountains, Pangong Tso is one of the best less hundered tourist destinations in the country.

9. Chitrakoot

Chitrakoot Dham

A gift of nature and of the gods, the district of Chitrakoot in Indian state of Madhya Pradesh is a tranquil retreat on the northern spur of the Vindhyas.

Dotted with several temples, shrines and natural wonders, this Almighty’s abode is also a good option for the spiritual peace seekers.

10. Athirapilly Falls 

Athirapilly Falls

Apart from the romantic backwaters and coconut grooves, Kerala is also famous for the Athirapilly waterfalls. Not just calm and sweet, but something really wild and natural, these waterfalls provide you a silent escape from the stressful daily life of metro cities. The word ‘picturesque’ hold true while we talk of these giant natural wonders.

India is such a diverse country that you need to plan frequent visits to this land to unlock its casket of jewels. Thus experience something unexpected and unexplored in your next tour to India.

Contributed by Gaurav Kumar

Heritage Tours to India : Visit Prominent Historical Sites in India

Heritage of a country symbolizes that how well the ancient and medieval legacies have been  preserved to retain the charm of bygone era. The glorious tales of chivalry and romance that have passed on from one generation to other have actually occurred in the premises of these monuments during the course of history. With heritage tours to India, one can feel the aura of yesteryear's from close quarters while strolling through the history-laden corridors of these monuments. Such tours enable you with the real glimpse of history way better than the imaginative picture one forms while unfolding the pages of history books.

Buland Darwaza, Fatehpur Sikri

When it comes to heritage tours to India, the adversary for Rajasthan repertoire is hardly there. The allure of this desert realm lies in its awe-inspiring forts, palaces, exotic fairs &festivals and folk culture. Almost all Rajasthan tours revolve around these aforementioned themes. Fairs and festivals that took place here from time to time are the best way to enrich your knowledge about their cultural heritage. Rajasthani folk dancers & singers such as Kalbeliya and Manganiars and puppeteers speak volumes about the golden age of Rajasthan through their performances.

The cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Jaisalmer are regularly frequented by tourists to get the glimpse of Rajasthan’s royal heritage. Palace on Wheels, India’s first luxury train, is one of the best and luxurious alternatives to explore the aforementioned destinations of this Rajputana state.

Travel to south India and you will find the richness of cultural heritage everywhere in this region. The most common feature that one can find in all states of south India is the presence of Dravidian temples in large numbers. Each of these temples was built by different south Indian dynasties in reverence of their favorite deity.

Hassan and Hampi are two breathtaking temple sites in Karnataka that dates back to the ancient times. Whereas Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising of monumental ruins which still resonates with the old-world charm, the Hoyasala temples built around 11th and 13th century in Hassan showcases the glory of Hoyasala Empire. Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram, Madurai and Badami are some of the prominent temple cities in southern region which are capable of leaving onlookers enchanted with their artistic beauty.

India plays host to diverse religious faiths that resides here in perfect harmony. One of the prominent religions in India is Buddhism which although got originated from India but has spread its roots in entire Asia. Ajanta & Ellora, Dharamshala, Bodhgaya, Sarnath and Sanchi are some of the prominent Buddhist destinations in India.

Among all aforesaid destinations, Bodhgaya is the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage in India due to the presence of Bodhi tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Dharamshala in Himachal is the center of Tibetan Buddhism and the seat of Tibetan Buddhist leader Dalai Lama. Another important Buddhist heritage site in India is the rock-cut caves of Ajanta and Ellora. Built by assiduous Buddhist monks, these caves showcase Buddhist religious art through its mural paintings and sculptures.

The temples of Khajuraho have an aesthetic appeal that beckon travelers from all around the world. Emblazoned as UNESCO World Heritage Site, Khajuraho Group of Monuments encompasses groups of erotic medieval temples built during the reign of Chandela dynasty and are included in most of the heritage tour packages.

Besides Khajuraho, there is sun temple of Konark which is considered to be the landmark in Dravidian architecture. Also known as black pagoda, the temple is constructed in a shape of stone chariot depicting twelve pairs of wheels pulled by seven horses. Due to the presence and preservation of all these heritage sites, we can say that India is not just a country of unity in diversity but also respects and value its cultural heritage that is prevailing here since time immemorial. 

Golden Triangle Tours : A seamless fusion of traditions and modernity

Imagine yourself on a journey where history meets with its successors in the modern time; such is the charm of Golden Triangle Tours covering three majestic cities of India- Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. The sand of time may have brought many changes in the lifestyle and outlook of these cities, but they still bear the essence of a soulful land where every day is a celebration and every night is full of merriment. This holiday package in India is a juxtaposition of modernism and medievalism with its ancient beliefs and values that could well be witnessed in each of these three cities of India.

After completing its 100 years of journey as a capital, Delhi is still a pleasant ménage giving a shade to everyone who comes under its roof. On the one hand the Red Fort, Ajmeri Gate, Qutub Minar etc. are standing like silent meditative Yogis hymning the chronicle of an era marked with royalty and valor; and on the other hand the India Gate, President’s House and Raj Ghat bear witness to a time when the entire country fought together to liberate the motherland. Keeping its step forward with the circle of time, Delhi has also become a great business hub in the southern part of Asia.

The diversity in Indian culture, lifestyle, its geography and its scenic beauty magnetizes the global nomads towards this land since time immemorial. The city of Jaipur, often referred to as the ‘Pink City’ because of the pinkish aura created by the color of its buildings, is one of the most visited and preferred tourist destinations in Western India, and especially in Rajasthan. The gigantic forts and palaces of the city are not only the architectural wonders of the bygone era; they are also the cultural landmarks of this city. The different kinds of puppetry show, folk dances and songs of the land have made an appeal even in the international sphere also.

Where Jaipur contains an aroma of the Rajputana rulers, the city of Agra reflects the Mughal lifestyle in its every heartbeat. This city is known worldwide as the home to the majestic Taj Mahal; one of the best symbols of everlasting love. Simple words might not be enough to express the charisma and beauty of this white marbled mausoleum. Agra also contains many other gem stones in its casket such as the Agra Fort, Baby Taj, Sikandra, Fatehpur Sikri; the list may be endless.

In a journey to the Golden Triangle to India, the visitors not only get an insight to the history and lifestyle of this land, they also get to feel the heartbeat of the country. Thus, a tour to these three cities is a must for those who want to delve into the golden history of the world.

Hill Station Tour : Travel Ideas

Nature is probably the best utopia for people of every age group. Recently India is awarded the best and most favored tourist destinations around the world. Thus planning a hill station tour in this country of scenic beauty could be the best gift that a husband can give to his spouse or parent can give to their kids. One can experience the best hill station tours in the northern and north eastern part of the country.

The highest mountain range in the world, the Himalayas, houses some of the best and spectacular hill stations of the world. Shimla, Ooty, Manali, Nainital, Mount Abu are just to mention a few from the long list of hilly natural abodes that this magnificent country has. Whether you travel to the roads of Nainital or set off to explore the beauty of Ooty or Shimla, each of these stations will cater to you an exciting exotic experience every time you visit these places.

A vacation, far away from the pollution and dirt of the city life is a real retreat not for the eyes but for the body and the mind too.  Moreover, those who want some thrilling experiences during their summer vacations, a tour to Indian hill stations is a must need for them. Bungee jumping, river rafting and paragliding will definitely bring down shivers to your spine. Some hill stations in India make you experience some of the best wild sports in the country.

The spellbinding beauty of these hill stations in India attracts a good number of visitors every year, both from within and outside the country. A family tour to these places in a sumptuous way gives an exotic travelling experience, especially to the young members of the family.

Though there are different means of exploring the greenery of Indian hill stations, an exotic journey to the mountain ranges, boarding a luxury train, is a completely different experience of its kind. The interior decor of these trains as well as the services that they provide is sufficient enough to tempt your senses.

Cultural Tours in India : An Enchanting Mix of Diverse Travel Options

For past few decades, India has been basking in the glory of ‘Unity in Diversity’. It is a phrase which defines the tolerance level of this country in terms of different religions which either originated in India or arrived here seeking refuge from the atrocities of their own people. The diversity of this incredible land presents a beautiful blend of geographical disparity, varied cultures, multiple languages and a wide spectrum of heritage sites. Cultural tours in India offer an opportunity to experience the varied Diaspora of this land as well as some inborn traditions which have found admirers all over the world.

From exploring the forts and palaces of Rajasthan to rejuvenating in age-old traditions of yoga & Ayurveda and from trailing the path to Buddhist monasteries to paying homage to the revered temples of central & south India, there is no dearth of options for cultural tours in India.

Rajasthan Tours

In the western frontiers of India lies the glorious region of Rajput warriors called Rajasthan. The forts and palaces of Rajasthan quintessentially draw travelers from all around the world to feast upon the royal heritage of this erstwhile Rajputana state. The architectural resplendence of this desert realm can be witnessed during trip to cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and Mandawa. Besides marveling at the architectural beauty, Rajasthan tours allow tourists to experience the local ways of living by being a part of colorful fairs and festivals of this region like Pushkar Fair and Desert festival.

South India Tours



The bonafide picture of ancient Indian culture and regional diversity becomes more apparent during trip to south India. Besides mesmerizing beauty of the nature, South India tours offer great opportunities for cultural exploration due to the presence of various music and dance, exotic cuisines and scores of Dravidian temples.

Pilgrimage Tours 



India is a region where several religions co-exist in perfect harmony. Various temples, monasteries and shrines that are housed in the bosom of this country beckon people of diverse religious faith from all around the globe. Be it the ancient Dravidian temples of south, Golden Temple of Amritsar, Buddhist stupas of Sarnath and erotic temples of Khajuraho, there are various temples in India which exemplify brilliant artistry as well as form an intrinsic part of Pilgrimage Tours in India.

Ayurveda Tours

Ayurveda, the age-old tradition of holistic wellness has emerged as the global choice for cultural tours to India in past few years. This ancient Indian medical science has become the selling proportion for tourism in India due to the significant changes that it brings in our hectic and unhealthy lifestyle. One of the best places for true Ayurvedic  experience is Rishikesh. Its proximity to holy river Ganga and tranquil luxuriant surroundings proves perfect for Ayurvedic treatments. Ananda in Himalayas has been voted as the best destination spa in the world and attends people from all over the world.