Manas National Park: A Travel Guide

A jungle habitat of unparalleled beauty, Manas National Park is situated at the foothills of Himalayas in the state of Assam. It is a renowned UNESCO natural heritage site, biosphere reserve, project tiger reserve and an elephant reserve. Not only for its long list of credentials, one must also visit this green paradise for its unique biodiversity and landscapes.

Seen as some of the rarest gifts of nature, Manas National Park is like a melting point of the west and east, when it comes to its fauna. Blessed by a semi-tropical climate, the biomes of this reputed national park provide a natural home to the some of the most exotic and endangered species of wildfire that are hard to find anywhere else on this planet.

Main Entrance Gate View of Manas National Park - UNESCO World Heritage Site

Wildlife of Manas National Park

The lands of the Manas National Park are ruled by a huge variety of wildlife. If statistics are to be believed, the region is home to around 55 species of mammals, 380 species of birds and 50 species of reptiles.

Wildlife photographers can save the sight of different species like the Wild Water Buffalo, Asian elephants, Indian rhinoceros, tigers, Clouded leopards, Asian Golden cat, Assamese Macaque, Hoolock gibbons and Capped Langurs in their cameras.

Elephant safari in Manas National Park in Guwahati, Assam

If lucky, one can even watch the Golden langur, Hispid hare, Assam roofed turtle and pygmy hog, which are some of the few endangered species of animals, breathing in the national park.

Besides, Manas also breeds more than 450 species of birds, which include the endangered Bengal Florican, giant Hornbills, Fishing eagles, Jungle fowls, Finn’s weaver and Magpie Robins.

Varied dimensions of Flora

From the gorges of Bhutan, flows the river Manas which sprouts the entire national park with a lush green vegetation cover. This thick vegetation growth in the eco-region of the Brahmaputra valley is predominantly divided into grasslands and forest cover.

About half of the Manas National Park is covered in grasslands of Terai and Bhabar type, whereas the rest is confiscated by the deciduous forests of the eastern Himalayas. Unlike the majority, the northern portion of Manas has a vegetation of evergreen forests.

Main vegetation of Manas National Park can be described as-

• Assam valley semi-evergreen  alluvial grasslands
• East Himalayan mixed dry and moist deciduous forests
• Low Alluvial Savanna Woodland
• Sub Himalayan light alluvial semi evergreen forests

With a total that counts to more than 500 species of plants, there is no harm in calling Manas National Park one of the richest biodiversity areas in the world. Prime plants species in this tropical paradise are the Pithraj tree, Kadam, orchid tree, Kumkum tree and Chinese deciduous tree.

Accomodation and Jungle Safari options

Near Manas National Park, visitors can stay in the comfortable rest houses at Bansbari and Mothanguri. From these forest lodges, one can embark on an exciting jungle safari, organized by the forest department.

It is certainly exhilarating to explore the extreme wilderness of Manas, sitting on top of an elephant like some King. Besides, jeep safaris are also an effective option to scale the vast landscapes of the national park.   

Jeep Safari in Manas National Park, Assam

Best Time to Visit Manas National Park

To enjoy the exotic Manas National Park in the best possible manner, it is best advised that tourists make their visit between the months of November and April. June to September, the national park remains closed for visitors. However, one must consult with the forest authorities before making a visit to the region, as it is prone to sudden outburst of rains.

How to Reach Manas National Park

By Air

Nearest airport to the Manas National Park in Assam is at Guwahati, which is around 176 kms from the destination. Guwahati airport is well connected to the other parts of India.

By Rail

If you are planning to travel via train, then one must get down at the railway junction of Barpeta road. The junction is around 32 kms away from the Manas National Park.  You can also choose to travel till Guwahati railway station before heading to Manas through road.  

By Road

From Guwahati, one can take national highway 31 to get close to Manas National Park. Adjoining Barpeta road in Assam, the highway will lead you to Bansbari, which is the entry point of Manas. This road journey from Guwahati to the national park is expected to take near about 5 hours. Besides Guwahati, tourists also have the option of driving from Darjeeling, Kajiranga, Siliguri and Shillong.

Manas National Park Travel Tips

As Manas has a subtropical climate, light cotton clothes can surely prove beneficial. Similarly, if you are wishing to travel during the time of autumn, do not forget to pack some woolens. Besides proper packing, one must also keep a tab on the different aspects of the trip, like prior booking of lodges and other travel arrangements. Foreigners are advised to carry much Indian currency to avoid further problems. 

Opening hours and Safari Timings

• 5:30 am to 6:30 pm every day (opening hours)
• 5:30 am to 10 am (Morning safari duration)
• 2 pm to 5:30 pm (Evening safari duration)

Manas National Park Entry Fees

• Rs 20 for Indians
• Rs 250 for foreigner tourists

Manas National Park Camera Fees

• Rs 50 (Indians)
• Rs 500 (Foreigners)

[ Looking for more? Check out the best national parks and wildlife reserves in India ]

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Festivals in India in October 2019

Festivals in India are times when families, friends and even entire communities come together to mark the occasion The air is redolent with the color and enthusiasm. There's joy, celebrations and events to mark the religious and cultural fests in India. The festivities are further enhanced by colorful lights, music and dance.

From the dances and rituals to mark the victory of good over evil across India to world's largest cattle fair in Pushkar, festivals in India in October give you ample reasons to pack your bags and head to the locations where they are celebrated at their best.

Here are the most important fair & festivals in India in October in no particular order:

Navratri Festival

A nine-day festival, Navaratri is when Mother Goddess is worshipped in all her manifestations. These manifestations include Maa Durga, Saraswati and Lakshmi.

During this festival, devotees worship and fast all day. At night, devotees enjoy the festival with dancing and feasting. The festival ends with Dussehra on the tenth day. Plays are organized all over Delhi and they feature the Navaratri celebrations. 

When: 29 September - 7 October, 2019
Where: All across India. Celebrated particularly in Gujarat, Mumbai, Varanasi, Mysore and Manali

Ramlila 

Sita Putting the jaymala around the neck of Rama

Ramlila is one of the best ways Hindus depict their epic Ramayana (the story of Lord Rama). And to enjoy the best of the numerous Ramlilas that are staged all across the Northern part of India, you need to schedule your plans to Ramnagar near Varanasi. Being dwelling in the mystic charm of Varanasi, it is quite obvious the connection it would be having with the prime religion of India, Hinduism.

The emulsification of Hinduism in one of the oldest habitats in the world, gave the people of Ramnagar a sense to reenact the story of Lord Vishnu’s incarnation, Lord Rama in the form of a play, some 200 years ago. This started the trend of Ramlila in India. Unlike the other small budgetary Ramlila’s in the country, this one has lavish sets and permanent structures that resemble a lot like those of the locations mentioned in the mythology. All this makes the whole city look like a giant set, where every soul is immersed completely in his respective role. When the other Ramlilas in India bail out after a period of 10 days, it continues for 31 days.

When: 29 September -11 October 2019

Address: Ramnagar, on the banks of Ganges River, opposite Varanasi

[Read More about Ramlila and Plan your trip]

Mysore Dussehra

Yes! Mysore Dussehra festival has something different to it. The festival is celebrated on a large scale. The festival is celebrated to honor the Goddess Chamundeswari who killed the great demon Mahishasur. It is celebrated to enjoy the victory of good over evil. 

When: 29 September to 7 October 2019
Where: Mysore, Karnataka

Jaipur Shopping Festival

Jaipur shopping festival is India’s biggest shopping festival which runs for a month. The festival features more than 7,000 retailers who come from major markets of the city.

The craft bazaar showcases the best handicrafts which have been designed by local and national artisans. And shopping is not all! The festival brings along, tons of entertainment in the form of music, plays, folk dancing, competitions, fireworks and fashion shows. 

When: 25 September – 23 October, 2019

Where: Different locations in Jaipur, Rajasthan

Durga Puja Festival

Durga Puja is celebrated in the honor of warrior Goddess Durga. During this festival, one can witness beautifully handcrafted statues of Maa Durga which are installed all around the city. People from different places roam around the streets to see the statues of Goddess Durga. 

At all the streets, there are different light shows and food stalls offering lip smacking dishes. All the statues of Maa Durga are paraded throughout the city before they are submerged into the river. 

When: 4 - 8 October, 2019

Where: Kolkata, West Bengal

[Browse through our collection of Kolkata tour packages]

Matsya Festival

It is the Matasya Festival which provides a look of the Rajasthani culture and heritage at its best. This colorful festival has a number of attractions including folk music, folk dance, exhibitions, competitions and sports. 

When : 21 - 22 October 2019
 Where: Alwar, Rajasthan

Ashwa Poojan

Ritual performance

Ashwa Poojan is a unique Rajasthani festival which is well-known as the Worship of the Horse. It is celebrated on a grand scale by the Mewar royal family of Udaipur on the last day of Navaratri. 

The festival celebrates and honors the relationship between the warrior and horse. So, the royal horses are worshipped by the current head of the royal family which is accompanied by the palace band. The key highlight of the festival is the mouth-watering Rajasthani cuisine which is served during the festival.

When: October 18, 2019

Where: Udaipur City Palace, Rajasthan

Dussehra

Dussehra is celebrated on the tenth day of the Navaratri festival. The festival is all about celebrating the victory of good over evil. 

It recalls the defeat of Ravana by Lord Rama. During the festival, a number of fairs are organized wherein the large models of Ravana are burnt on bonfires.

When: October 8, 2019

Where: Particularly in North India

Kullu Dussehra

Ceremony in Kullu

Kullu Dussehra is a week-long festival during which Goddess Hadimba is carried from the temple in Manali down to Kullu. From here, she is taken to the palace where she blesses the royal family. The goddess is then taken to Dhalpur where the idol of Lord Raghunath joins.

Gods and goddesses from all over the valley come to meet Hadimba and Lord Raghunath. Further, they are taken to the Dhalpur Maidan where they stay till the end of the festival. There are cultural performances and exhibitions which are organized during this festival.

Lastly, the chariot carrying Goddess Hadimba and Lord Raghunath is taken to Beas River. Here, a pile of thorn bushes are burnt to show the burning of Lanka. 

When: 8 October, 2019

Where: Dhalpur Maidan, Kullu Vallery, Himachal Pradesh

Marwar Festival

This festival mainly celebrates the culture of Rajasthan’s Marwar region. The festival lasts for two days over the full moon. It is organized to remember medieval heroes of the state.

Classical folk dance and music is the key highlight of this festival. There are many fun activities which are organized including horse riding, horse polo and camel tattooing.

When: October 12-13, 2019

Where: Jodhpur, Rajasthan.

[Read More about Marwar Festival]

Rajasthan International Folk Festival

Rajasthan International Folk Festival

The Rajasthan International Folk Festival is a unique one where in regional root music and art is presented. A number of things are organized during this festival such as jam sessions, interactive educational events and staged performances.

The public gets to enjoy great performances of dancers, singers, instrumentalists and storytellers who come from different Rajasthani folk communities. Performances are also given by nationally and internationally renowned artists. The festival is organized in Mehrangarh fort and this further adds to the colors of the festival.

When: 10 October - 14 October, 2019

Where: Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur, Rajasthan

[ Read More about Folk Sounds of Rajasthani Music ] 

Pushkar Camel Fair

Pushkar Camel Fair is a traditional Indian style festival in which around 50,000 camels come together on the desert town, Pushkar. All these camels are dressed up and for them, beauty contests, parades and races are organized. From 3rd to 6th November, the festival changes its focus to the religious celebrations.

When: 4 November - 12 November, 2019

Where: Pushkar, Rajasthan

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Best Places to Visit in India in January

January will be the best time to explore the various tourist destinations of India, as you are exempted from the scorching heat. The onset of winter season brings forward a large number of tourists in the country. You should take advantage of the favorable climate that lasts for a short period of time and plan out a holiday to celebrate your new year in India. Here are some of the best places for you to visit during the month of January:

Daman & Diu

The twin islands of Daman and Dui is the second smallest union territory in India, located on the west coast. It is culturally and historically rich and that can be reflected through the old forts, temples and churches scattered around these cities. Having been colonized by the Portuguese for about 450 years, the area still dwells under the colonial architecture. 

The other factor that attracts the visitors is the pristine white sandy beaches, offering a tranquil view. It remains pleasant during the winters, making the water activities more enjoyable. One of the most overwhelming experience in the peak of the winter season will be to witness the exotic migratory birds entering the islands, which makes the place vibrant and attractive.  

Rann of Kutch

Rann of Kutch is situated in the Thar Desert, Gujarat and is considered as the world’s largest salt desert, but it is seasonal. It remains underwater during the monsoon and becomes dry during winter and summer. The region is home to various tribes, each with their own customs and traditions and that is what appeals to visitors. Each year the Gujarat Government organizes a famous festival of “Rann Utsav” promoting exposure for this part of the state. 

It is an elaborate celebration that lasts for months, here are greeted with friendly faces and offered a close view of their lifestyle, through cultural performances and activities. Almost all the festivals are celebrated during the winter season, January would be a perfect time to visit.

Jaipur

India’s first planned city, Jaipur is the center of the Rajasthan’s culture and heritage. It is one of the top tourist destinations in India, alluring visitors with its spectacular fortifications and colorful bazaars  (markets). The best time to visit Jaipur would be in between the months of October - March, at this time the temperature cools down and allows an enjoyable sightseeing experience. 

The vibrant nature of the city can be observed through the festivals that are celebrated in a grand scale, mostly during the winter season. The fairs and festivals are exotic, the common ones are: Teej festival, Kite festival, Camel festival and more. You will never run out of thing to do or places to visit, when in Jaipur. It offers a great number of options to explore, you can visit the City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, Lakshmi Narayan Temple and many more. You can also have a wildlife experience through the National Parks and Sanctuaries located in and around Jaipur.

[Read More about Jaipur ]

Phawngpui

The landscape of the state of Mizoram is mostly of hills and valleys. Phawngpui (Blue Mountain)Peak is the highest mountain peak in the area and is greatly valued by the locals, it is considered to be the abode of the Gods. Located on the southeastern side of Mizoram and is fairly close to Burma. Phawngpui offers a platform for adventure activities like trekking, nature walks and more. 

The view it offers of the exotic flowers along the way is simply breathtaking against the backdrop of the blue hazed hills. This area is gifted with the beauty of nature, there is a beautiful waterfall nearby and on top of the hill you are greeted by numerous colorful butterflies and the panoramic view of Mizoram is enchanting. One of the main feature of the peak is that is home to exotic wildlife, the National Park is one among the two parks in the state.

Chadar Trek

  
One of the exclusive expeditions offered in India is the Chadar Trek, that takes place only during the winter season. ”Chadar” means blanket and is used to imply to the trek along the frozen River called Zanskar, one of the largest rivers in Ladakh. The trek route connects Chilling with the Zanskar valley, this path has been used for transportation and trade purposes for centuries. 

However, the main challenge you face in the trek is that of the temperature, it has the capacity to drop to -35. The landscape at certain points will leave you speechless, you come across some ancient monasteries and isolated villages of the Indus valley. The famous Spithup’s monastery festival is a must visit that gives you a close view of the local culture. The trek is unique and exciting and at the end of it, you get a sense of fulfillment.

[Also check out some of the Top 10 Hiking Trails in India]

Amritsar

The city is located in the Northern part of the country and is home to the sacred Golden Temple. It holds a great significance, both spiritually and culturally among the Sikhs and attracts many visitors from all over the globe. 

The peaceful and humble air within the temple is totally opposite of the chaotic and noisy market, right outside. Amritsar is known for its rich cuisine and friendly people, it also carries much importance in the Indian freedom struggle. The best time to visit Amritsar is during the winters, the temperature favors you an enjoyable sightseeing experience.

[Read More about Golden Temple]

Kabini

The Kabini River, runs along the Nagarhole National Park and offers an amazing backwater experience. It is originated in the Wayanad District of Kerala and flows eastward to join the Kaveri River, Karnataka and empties into the Bay of Bengal. This location is perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Get ready to have a fun loaded trip to Kabini; safari, backwaters, food, sightseeing and more. 

If you want a peaceful holiday, you can simply indulge in some lighter activities like nature walks, bird watching and studying the local villagers. Kabini trip is sure to flush out all the monotony of your city life with its tranquil atmosphere. During the winter season,the temperature goes down and refreshes the place.

Nasik

Mangi-Tungi Fort in Nashik

A very blessed place, Nasik is historically rich with numerous temples and forts; the location offers a great view of the ranges; and the agricultural yields in fruits and some vegetables are the highest in the country. 

It is considered as one of the holiest places for Hindus and attracts a large number of visitors. Today, Nasik is home to several industries and holds some important government offices, it is a perfect mixture of old and new. Winter seasons are the best time to explore Nasik as the climate remains pleasant at the time.

Goa

The beach capital of India, Goa has a number of surprises on hold for you. The scenic view and tranquility of the beaches are contradicted by the vibrant parties along it and the rare culture of the place is very appealing. Goa, once colonized by the Portuguese, can be reflected in their architecture, faith and cuisine. 

There are many imposing forts and ancient churches in and around the place. You can gain a refreshing experiencing by just relaxing  on the beaches with a drink and indulging in the fine cuisine. You can try out the various water activities and enjoy the happening parties for a more exciting experience. Goa has much to offer you, and the most recommended time to visit is during the month of December to February. The Christmas and New year celebrations are grand in Goa.

Nagaland

The state of Nagaland is located in the North - East part of the country , bordering several states and Burma is divided by a natural barrier. The tribal people, Nagas are considered to be very hospitable and friendly. The history of the Nagas is mysteriously interesting, though most of them have now become Christians, they hold on to their culture and some ancient traditions. 

The place is hilly with a suitable climate, Nagaland is not on the top ten list for visiting as it has very less to offer. However, during the Hornbill Festival, held during the winter season a wide range of tourists visit at this time. You can witness the vibrant culture of the different tribes.

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Places to Visit in India in May

Summer is the perfect time for a holiday. Usually, people pack their things and search for hideouts away from the burning heat of sun. What could be a better place than the hill stations of India? Indeed, the hill stations up north and down south are some of the best place to explore in summers. Not only because they offer respite from the burning sun heat, but they take care of your life. In this blog, we have listed top 10 tourist places to visit in India for your kind perusal. 

Ooty

Fondly referred to as the ‘Queen of the Hills’, Udhagamandalam, also known as Ooty, is a beautiful hill town in Ooty. In Ooty, tourism is the backbone of economy and contributes a significant share in the economy of the Tamil Nadu state.

The town is famous for its abundant natural beauty and is clearly apparent through some of the most popular tourist places in Ooty. Some of the major tourist attractions in Ooty include Doddabetta Peak, Botanical Garden, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Mudumalai National Park, Rose Garden, Sim’s Park and Emerald Lake.

[Read more about Ooty]

Kodaikanal

One of the finest hill stations in Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is located in the Palani hill range in the southern part of India. It is located at an altitude of 7,200 square feet above sea level. The most salient feature of this hill station is that it witnesses the full blooming of Kurinji flowers once in every 12 years. The hill town is well promoted by Kodaikanal Tourism Board which promoted it efficiently. The hill station has a host of adventure activities to offer to its tourists.

[Also check out top 5 hill stations in India]

Puri

One of the holiest pilgrimage places in India, Puri, for Hindu pilgrims, is a religious destination where life revolves around the great Jagannath Mandir and its famous Ratha Yatra.

The other attraction of Puri is its long and sandy beach. This destination is situated in coastal plains of Odisha and certainly a traveler’s delight. Some popular temples in Puri include Shri Jagannath Temple, Sri Lokanath Temple and Sun Temple at Konark. One of the four sacred Dhams in India, Puri is also famous for its beautiful beaches.

                      [Interested in knowing more about the top 10 Temples in India]

Shimla

The popularity of Shimla is unconquerable. When it comes to North Indian hill stations, this hill station in Himachal Pradesh takes edge over other hill stations in this state. It is fondly known as a traveler’s paradise and is teeming with greenery, recreational facilities and enamoring flora and fauna.

The hill station abounds with medieval churches and superbly built mansions that will make you fall in love with city’s history and culture. There are endless opportunities to satisfy your desire. Besides, there are a handful of recreational activities such as paragliding, birding and trekking.

Tirthan Valley

One of the most beautiful places in Himachal Pradesh, Thirthan Valley draws its name from Tirthan River, which originates from glaciers of Himalaya. It is a persistent river of cold and clear glacier water. It houses abundant of trout fish and is a virtual paradise for anglers. There is a Himalayan Trout House, which is a friendly place for locals and visiting fisherman, campers, trekkers and other holidaymakers. The Trout House offers different options of accommodation such as The Eco Cabin, The Mud Hut Suites and The Stone Cottage Suites. It is also Wi-Fi enabled. 

Bandhavgarh National Park

One of the most famous national parks in India, Bandhavgarh National Park is located in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh. It was declared as a national park in 1968. It sprawls over an area of 437 square kilometers and has a large bio-diversity. Bandhavgarh houses the highest density of tigers known in the world. Once the hunting reserve of the royal family of Rewa, today, Bandhavgarh was declared as the national park in 1968.

There are also certain species such as Elephant Black, Nilgai, Wild Boar, Chital, Chausingha and Wild Boar. The avian population of this national park include little grebe, egret, dove, Indian rollers, black vulture, black ibis and kingfishers. Here tourists can enjoy jeep safari to experience the charm of emerald green forests. Drive deep in the jungle and encounter the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger.

[Plan your trip to Bandhavgarh National Park with our packages]

Mussoorie

A popular tourist spot located in Uttaranchal, Mussoorie is a famous hill station and claims to be the ‘Queen of the Hills’. It is a perfect holiday getaway for many people around the country. With its picturesque backdrop and a variety of tranquility & mysticism, Mussoorie is a perfect hotspot for honeymooners, holidaymakers and trekkers alike. Some popular attractions in Mussoorie include Lal Tibba, Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Jwalaji Temple, Municipal Garden and Camel’s Back Road. The best time to visit this place is either between mid-April to mid-May and September to November.

[Also check out our feature on best places to go for summer holidays in India]

Munnar 

Situated in Central Kerala, Munnar is one of the most visited tourist destinations of the South Indian state. The literal meaning of the word ‘Munnar’ is three rivers. The hill town is located on the confluence of three small rivers- Kundala, Nallathani and Mudrapuzha.

[Read more about Munnar] 

This beautiful hill station is located at the foot of the Western Ghats and was the most favorite summer destinations for the British officials. It is also home to the highest peak in South India-Anamudi-which is around 2,900 meters above sea level. One of the major aspects of this hill station is a blue flower-Neelakurinji-which flourish once in every 12 year. 

Meghalaya

One of the most beautiful and serene land of abundant natural beauty in North-East India, Meghalaya attracts the tourists with gushing waterfalls, enchanting caves, intimidating mountains, fresh air and rusting pines. The capital of Meghalaya, Shillong is an awe-inspiring hill station.

There are several beautiful waterfalls in the state that offers wonderful vistas to the guests. Nohkalikai Waterfall in Meghalaya is the fourth longest waterfall in the world. The exotic variety of flora and rare species of birds make it a botanist and ornithologist delight. 

Mysore

The second biggest city in Karnataka, Mysore serves as the capital of Wodeyar dynasty. It is also known as the city of palaces and known for its exquisite architecture. Once a sleepy town, Mysore evolved into a city of apartments, complexes, malls, supermarkets and IT companies.

Some popular tourist places to visit in Mysore include Brindavan Gardens, Jaganmohan Palace, Lalit Mahal Palace, Mysore Zoo and St. Philomena’s Church. The city is also famous for its silk saris and sandalwood carvings.

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Best places to visit in India in February

The month of February in India is a special one when the chilling winter season slowly gives way to the spring season. Popular for ‘Valentine’s Week’, February is also known as the month of celebration of love. Planning a short vacation during this time looks like an ideal option to spend some quality time with your better half. The blog enlists the best places to visit in India in February, mainly due to their pleasant climate:

Jaipur

Tourist Attractions in Jaipur

The capital and the largest city of the royal Rajasthan state, Jaipur is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. A part of the most sought-after Golden triangle tour, the largest city of the state is also famed as the ‘Pink City’. Dotted with a number of tourist attractions, it was founded in November 1727 by the ruler of Amber, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Amer fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Chokhi Dhani, the Royal observatory, Albert Hall and Laxmi Narayan Temple are some of the must-visit places. Do not miss shopping for some exclusive stuff from the local bazaars.

Kochi (Cochin)

Tourist Attractions in Kochi

Referred to as the Gateway to Kerala, Kochi or Cochin is a popular as well as an important city of the south Indian state Kerala. Also called Ernakulam, this city has a history that can be traced back to 600 years ago. The city boasts of several tourist attractions including Bolgatty Palace, Jewish Synagogue, Chinese fishing Nets, Dutch Palace, Cherai beach, Willingdon Island and St Francis Church. The city is sandwiched between the Western Ghats on the East and the Arabian Sea on the west.

Delhi

Tourist Attractions in Delhi

The capital city of India, the vibrant city of Delhi is a part of the extremely popular Golden-triangle tour. The melting point of politics, Delhi boasts of being a cultural hotspot as well. Every year, it attracts a crazy number of holidaymakers as well as business visitors. Humayun's Tomb, Laxmi Naryana temple, Akshardham temple, Qutub Minar, National Museum, India gate, Red Fort, Gurudwara Bangal Sahib,Purana Qila are some of the popular attractions from a long list of tourist attractions. If you are a shopaholic, Delhi has a lot to offer.

Udaipur

Tourist Attractions in Udaipur

The most romantic city of the royal Rajasthan state, Udaipur is famed as the ‘Jewel of Mewar’. A famed travel destination, Udaipur boasts of rich culture and heritage and an enchanting landscape, including the placid Lake Pichola. City Palace, Jag Mandir Palace, Bharatiya Lok Kala Museum (Udaipur Folk Museum), Vintage Car Museum, Shilp Gram, Saheliyon-ki-Bari are some of the attractions, you must visit.

Do not forget a romantic boat ride in the lake, while enjoying the mesmerizing sunset views. The local bazaars sell some excellent handicrafts and much more.

Jodhpur

Tourist Attractions in Jodhpur

Famed as the ‘Sun City’ and the ‘Blue City’, Jodhpur in Rajasthan is also a popular tourist destination, because of being close to the Thar Desert. The erstwhile princely state of Marwar, Jodhpur  is dotted with a number of tourist attractions such as the Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Umadi Bhawan Palace and Museum, Takhat Sagar Lake, Mahamandir temple and Mandore Garden are the major attractions of this historic city.

Agra

Agra Fort

One of the 3 cities of the world-renowned Golden-triangle tour, the Mughal City of Agra is located on the banks of river Yamuna. Famed all around the world for the Taj Mahal- one of the Seven Wonders of the World’, it is home to a number of tourist attractions including the World Heritage Sites of the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. Do not miss to take Petha and Dalmoth- popular local renditions back to your home. When in Agra, shop for handicrafts, carpets, rugs, gold threads and leather articles.

Andaman and Nicobar islands

Andaman and Nicobar islands

A Union territory of India, Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a group of islands on the meeting point of the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. One of the extremely popular honeymoon destinations in India, it offers several opportunities to indulge in a number of water sports activities. Here, you can also visit popular attractions like Anthropological Museum, Cellular Jail, Samudrika Marine Museum, Radhanagar beach, Ross Island, North Bay Island, Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park etc.

Interested in vacation in Andaman? Check out this 6 nights Andaman Island tour package.

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Contributed by Geetika Handa

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Why Luxury Train Travel in India is recommended over Private Car Packages

What luxury train does is that it lets you leave behind the hassles of airplanes and car rentals and bumpy rides on your tour to India.

With the ability to experience luxurious accommodations, amazing culinary events, and breathtaking scenery, plus the chance to hop on and off at some of the India's most iconic destinations, luxury train travel can be immensely rewarding, romantic, and eye-opening. It not just transports you to places but even a different era - better than any other mode of transportation.

Guests of Maharajas' Express arriving at Jaipur Railway Station

As far as sightseeing in New Delhi is concern, none of the luxury train offers a day’s tour program in Delhi. You may better choose either Delhi metro for the local sightseeing of Delhi or go for the HOHO tourist bus service which takes you to over 19 tourist places in Delhi.

HOHO service is air conditioned and also provided on board guide.

Delhi Metro will also take you to prominent tourist destinations but you’ll have to research the stations where you need to get down and then at most of the tourist places, you’ll have to either walk some distance or need to hire tuk tuks or 3 wheel rickshaw to get to the monuments/attractions. Here's some more infornation on Delhi Metro Rail.

Now luxury train are a different breed altogether. They take you on 4 to 7 night’s journeys across some of the most prominent destinations in India cutting across the state boundaries. There are 5 luxury trains to be precise with a total of 11 journeys to choose from.

Palace on Wheels is the first ever to be introduced in India offering luxury train tour to Rajasthan along with a halt in Agra to visit Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri and Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. The all inclusive seven night journey (http://bit.ly/1iS7q3K) starts from USD 2730 per person per journey. The guest accommodation is basic but reminiscent of a bygone era.

The most luxurious and the latest is Maharajas’ Express which has been voted World’s leading luxury train for 2nd consecutive time this year at World Travel Awards. Maharajas’ Express is like a moving 5 star hotel on wheels with facilities such as Wi-Fi internet, attached washroom with showers and even bathtubs in suite, live television, dining cars and lounge bars.

The journey on board Maharajas’ Express starts from USD 3840 per person per journey for 3 nights journeys (Treasures of India & Gems of India) in Deluxe Cabins whereas the same journey will cost you USD 12900 for the Presidential Suite accommodation. The 7 nights itinerary starts from $6840 per person for Deluxe Cabins which goes as high as $23,700 for Presidential Suite accommodation.

Then there are other luxury trains like The Golden Chariot which offer 2 journeys in South India whereas yet another train Deccan Odyssey offering 3 itineraries -1 covers Maharashtra along with Goa and 2 other starts from Mumbai and Delhi and covers destinations in Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Agra.

Yet another luxury train Royal Rajasthan on Wheels offer 7 nights luxury train journey to destinations in Rajasthan along with halts in Khajuraho, Varanasi and Agra.

Depending upon your budget and preference, you could select one of these luxury trains in India to have an exclusive holiday experience in India. Here’s the detail of all luxury train for your further research http://bit.ly/1iS7EHV.

Contributed by Nikhil Chandra

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