Tourism and travel places in india

India tourist Map

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Goa Tourist Attractions

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Goa is the perfect place where you will find a blend of traditional and modern aspects of life. On one hand you have plush beaches and on the other hand you have the most natural landscapes that make you wonder if time ever touched this place. Goa is the perfect place to go on a sightseeing tour. These tours will truly show you an entirely new side of Goa that is sure to take you by surprise. The waterfalls, the forests, the spice farms, all are unique in their own way and are a must visit on your tour to Goa in India. Check our related sections for further information.

Goa Beaches

Goa Churches

Goa is literally synonymous with churches. They are living testimonies of the rich historical past of Goa. During the early days of the Portuguese rule in India, church building was the primary concern and occupation in Goa. This was because of their zeal to spread Christianity and convert as many people as they can.

Goa Carnival

When: February, before Easter
Where: Entire Goa
Duration: Three Days
Highlights: Street plays, songs, dances, parades, feasting and merry making

One of the most colorful and popular festival of Goa is the Goa Carnival. This three day extravaganza, of fun, frolic, amusement and merry-making, takes place in the month of February. The Goa Carnival festival is one of the most eagerly awaited events of the year. Though essentially a Christian festival, all people of Goa, irrespective of their faith and religion take part in this festival. The word Carnival has been derived from the Latin word "Carnavale" which means to throw away meat. The main highlight of Goan carnival is to have fun by indulging in singing, dancing, feasting, etc. before the 40 day abstinence period of Lent before Easter.

The history of the Goan carnival goes back to almost 500 years. It was essentially introduced in Goa by the Portuguese. The trend of celebrating the Carnival with hedonistic pleasures dates back to ancient Rome and Greece. It came to be known to the Portuguese and Spanish people with time and when the Portuguese established their colony in Goa, they introduced the concept there. Since then, the carnival is regular feature every year and a time when people all over Goa take part in it with pleasure.

Just before Easter Sunday, all Goans celebrate the carnival as a feasting and merry making time. The carnival is absolutely colorful and lively and the whole of Goa comes alive with this festival. The entire state is decorated with streamers and colorful ribbons and papers. Throughout the state, many fun parades are organized and people belonging to different communities and areas prepare their tableaus with different representations and themes.

On the opening day of the carnival, King Momo presides over the festival and "orders" his subjects to party and indulge in merry making. The mornings are dominated with singing, feasting and organizing street plays while the evenings are usually full of dancing, balls, etc. on the wide open streets. With the increase in the number of tourists to Goa, the carnival is gaining more and more popularity and is visited by a number of tourists. In a nutshell, Goa Carnival is festival that is dominated by enjoyment and merry making where people come together and spread cheer and happiness.

Dudhsagar Waterfalls

Location: Sanguem district in Goa, near the Karnataka border
Highlights: Listed as one of the highest waterfalls in the world and India's fifth highest waterfall
How to Reach: Dudhsagar waterfalls can be easily reached by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from Panaji or even Margao.

The Dudhsagar waterfalls are located in the Sanguem district of Goa near the Goa-Karnataka border. It is located at a distance of around 60 kilometers from Margao and can be reached easily by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from either Margao or Panaji. Dudhsagar waterfalls of Goa have the distinction of being ranked as the fifth highest waterfall in India and they list in the Top 100 highest waterfalls in the world.

The Dudh Sagar waterfalls have a milky white appearance which is why it is named as Dudhsagar which literally means "Ocean of Milk". The Dudhsagar waterfalls plunge down from a staggering height of 2000 feet. The waterfall is located amongst lush green surroundings of the forests of Western Ghats which is what makes it even more scenic and beautiful. During monsoons the Dudhsagar waterfall becomes very lively and attracts tourists in hordes.

Many tourists who visit Dudh Sagar prefer swimming in the calm waters. It is quite safe to swim there provided one is careful enough. The Dudhsagar waterfalls provide a breathtaking view from the top and they look scintillating during the crack of dawn. Those who love adventure and thrill can always try to climb to the head of the waterfalls though the rough path full of rocks, vegetation and water. It may take a couple of hours but it will definitely be worth it! So if you want to spend an entire day in serenity, come to Dudhsagar waterfalls of Goa.

Goa Spice Plantations

Location: Ponda, situated in the center of Goa
Highlights: Two major spice plantations that produce exotic spices and grind them in a powder form for use.
How to Reach: Ponda can be reached easily from Panaji by hiring a taxi or an auto. You can also hire a private van or jeep to reach the spice plantations of Goa.

Goa is synonymous to its exotic beaches and pulsating nightlife. Tourists come here to enjoy the relaxed pace of life and rediscover themselves in peaceful and serene surroundings. But there is more to Goa than just beaches, churches, nightlife and casinos. A major attraction in the rural side is the spice plantation of Goa. Situated in the region called Ponda (central Goa), the spice plantations in Goa use organic methods of cultivation and farming. The spices that are produced are then cleaned and ground into powder.

The spice plantations of Goa are quite popular as a tourist attraction. On a typical excursion to the spice plantations, you shall begin your day by starting to explore the fields and the farms. It is very astonishing to see men climbing on very tall trees while maintaining a balance and at the same time plucking betel nut fruits from those swaying trees. The spice plantations are managed by people who have comprehensive knowledge and excel in technical know how of farming spices. Some major spices produced in these spice plantations are:

Black pepper
Cardamom
Nutmeg
Vanilla
Cinnamon
Cloves
Chillies
Coriander
Cashew
Betel nut palm

Apart from these spices, many tropical fruits are also grown here that include Custard apples, Papaya, Bananas, Pineapples, Citrus fruits, etc. Information regarding the major spice plantations is given in the following lines.

Sahakari Spice Farm
Located at a distance of just 2 kilometers from Ponda, the Sahakari spice plantation is famous for its farms and grows many fruits. One of the most unique spices grown here is vanilla. The farm is spread over 130 acres and also has two small streams flowing right through.

Abyss Spice Farm
This spice plantation is located on high mountains amidst stunning surroundings near Ponda. Many tourists visit the Abyss spice plantation as it is famous for the medicinal herbs that are grown over here on a large scale.

Savoi Spice Plantation
This spice plantation is located at a distance of around 10 kilometers from Ponda. The main spices grown here are cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, turmeric, ginger, basil, nutmeg and pepper plantations. The cashew distillation unit is an added attraction here.

Goa Beaches

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The ideal combination of sun, sand, sea and surf is enough to send a person packing his bags and go on a short holiday. It becomes even better when that holiday is in one of the popular Goan beaches. Goa has a long coastline that makes it the ideal state to have beaches. The beaches of Goa are the perfect destination for a relaxing vacation and holiday in India. Right from lazing around to enjoying water sports and relishing the exotic sea food of Goa, the beaches have everything that goes into making your vacation the perfect one. In case you want more information regarding the beaches in Goa, you can always check our related sections that cover each and every beach in Goa and get the necessary details.

Agonda Beach

Location: 37 kilometers from Margao, South Goa
Highlights: Cabo De Rama fort which is now in ruins
How to Reach: Agonda beach is slightly difficult to reach since it is a bit cut off from the main land. One can reach Agonda beach by hiring scooter or a cab. Buses don't ply.

Situated at the south of Goa, some 37 kilometers from Margao is the Agonda beach. Secluded and a bit cut off from the mainland, the Agonda beach of Goa is the place to be if you want to be just with yourself and the never ending sea in front of you. The Agonda beach of India is dotted with palm trees on golden brown sands and the shores are softly washed by the gentle waves of the sea. The south of the beach has a large hill which looks beautiful and dramatic. Though the beach is not frequented much by tourists, it is the ideal getaway if you are looking for peace and silence.

Since the Agonda beach of Goa is a bit secluded from the mainland, there are not many facilities that are provided here and one should take necessary things along if visiting this beach. It is not advisable to swim too far away on this beach because there are no lifeguards and the current is strong here. You will not find any souvenir shops, flea markets, restaurants, etc here. The beach is approximately 3 kilometers long and is a long stretch of peace, silence and tranquility. There are no resorts near the beach. Still if you want to stay here, you may put up a tent, though at your own risk.

The beach is an ideal getaway if you are looking for a secluded spot in an otherwise crowded Goa. The swaying coconut trees, untouched golden sands, long uninterrupted stretch of land and blue sea all make the Agonda beach the perfect spot to come for a picnic with your friends and family. The fort of Cabo De Rama forms a dramatic background of the beach and gives it an air of mystic romance. It is said that Lord Rama (incarnation of Lord Vishnu) came here to stay with his wife Sita during his 14 year long exile. You can always hire a taxi or an auto rickshaw to reach Agonda beach from any nearby city in south Goa. So for a magical trip and an unparalleled experience, visit the Agonda beach.

Anjuna Beach

Location: 8 kilometers from Mapusa in Goa
Highlights: Flea markets, Chapora Fort, Albuquerque Mansion, trance parties
How to Reach: Anjuna beach can be easily reached by hiring a cab or an auto rickshaw from the capital city of Panaji or the Mapusa city.

One of the most popular beaches of India, the Anjuna beach of Goa never fails to amuse its visitors. The Anjuna beach is famous for its trance parties that take place almost everyday. The exotic Anjuna beach of Goa is the ideal beach to go swimming in the placid blue sea. The turquoise blue waters of the sea form the perfect foreground for the magical sunset every evening. This beach is located at a distance of around 8 kilometers to the west of Mapusa and can be easily reached by hiring a local cab or an auto.

The sea at Anjuna beach is always calm and many people enjoy swimming over here. One can always see hordes of people flocking this beach just to relax and enjoy the sights this beach offers. Tourists amuse themselves by swimming, trying out adventure sports, shopping at the Anjuna flea market and trying out the heavenly local cuisines! The evenings are magical here as the scene at the Anjuna beach changes drastically. Evenings are the time for the beach parties that Anjuna is famous for.

Anjuna beach has a couple of other tourist attractions nearby too. These include the Chapora Fort and the Albuquerque Mansion. The Chapora fort offers a splendid view of the deep blue sea and the beach while the Albuquerque Mansion is a testimony of the Portugal rule in Goa. Anjuna beach is a favorite of all sorts of people. Be it kids who want to build sand castles, youngsters who want to try water sports, couples who just want to be with each other surrounded by serene beauty, party animals who love the idea of a beach party at night, Anjuna beach is the place to be. So visit the Anjuna beach of Goa to experience the perfect blend of fun and beauty.

Arambol Beach

Location: 50 kilometers from Panaji in North Goa
Highlights: Secluded beach still unspoilt by visitors, Sulphur springs and freshwater lakes nearby
How to Reach: Arambol beach can be easily reached by local transport like taxis, autos and buses that can be hired from any nearby place or Panaji

Arambol beach of Goa is one of those beaches that is less frequented by visitors as compared to other popular beaches. Its secluded location in the north of Goa makes it untouched and unspoilt. Though it is not thronged by crowds, the Arambol beach is visited often by tourists who look for tranquility and peace and a dreamy place such as the beach to relax. The Arambol beach of India also has sulphur springs that have medicinal properties and freshwater lakes where one can swim.

The Arambol beach is a long stretch of uninterrupted beach that is bordered with coconut trees on one edge and has the endless sea on the other side. Arambol beach is the place to be if you are looking for undisturbed peace and exotic beauty. Though the beach is not much frequented by people, it is usually swarming with local people on Sundays who come here for family picnics. There are no resorts or hotels in the immediate vicinity of the beach but on searching, you may find some budget hotels located somewhere near the beach.

The beach is home to some villagers who greet visitors with an open heart. They go out of their way to ensure that you are comfortable and look after any important need of yours. They are the warmest people you will come across while on this beach. For those who want to exercise their muscles a bit, there is a well constructed running track that extends for quite a long stretch. A little away from the beach, you shall find sulphur springs and freshwater lakes where people take a swim and just relax.

Baga Beach

Location: An extension of the Calangute beach, the Baga beach of Goa lies 10 kilometers west of Mapusa

Highlights: Best restaurants, liveliest nightlife in Goa, water sports.

How to Reach: Baga beach can be reached easily from Mapusa and Panaji by buses, cabs and auto rickshaws.

Located at a distance of around 10 kilometers from Mapusa, the Baga beach of Goa is considered to be an extension of the Calangute beach. Though the starting point of the Baga beach and the ending point of Calangute beach is not known, the Baga beach can be reached easily from the Calangute beach. Considered to be a beautiful beach in India, the Baga beach is quite popular with tourists who come here for enjoying the natural beauty of the exotic locales.

The scenery of the Baga beach is picture perfect and even the worst photographer can click some good pictures here! The Baga River flows into the sea near the beach and the conjuncture of the river and the sea, one can find many rocks against which the waves crash thus giving it a dramatic look. Baga beach has unarguably the best nightlife in Goa and is frequented by mostly British tourists.

Most of the people, who want to enjoy the nightlife of Baga beach, go to Tito's which has a disco floor and a mind blowing music system. Couples and single men have to pay to enter while women are allowed in for free. Baga beach has no dearth of food and you can find some of the best range of restaurants in Goa over here. Baga beach is famous for its beach shacks that serve local cuisine which is absolutely scrumptious. In case you are not the experimenting types, you can also find swanky pizzerias as well as roof top cafes that serve amazing espresso coffee. So come to Baga beach and enjoy the serene beauty of the beach while you sip a cup of hot espresso.

Bambolim Beach

Location: North of Goa, 7 kilometers from Panaji
Highlights: Famous for the Bambolim beach resort
How to reach: The Bambolim beach can be reached by hiring a local cab or an auto from Panaji or any nearby place.

Bambolim beach is the ideal beach if you want to spend maximum time regaling in the sea and soak up the sun. It is located in the north of Goa near the Dona Paula beach. The Bambolim beach of Goa is a bit secluded from the mainland and this is what gives it a desolate and exotic look. The Bambolim beach resort in India is quite famous and one can find many tourists availing the modern and latest facilities provided in this resort while enjoying the beach. The Bambolim beach is a delight for all those who love to go out in the rough seas on a boat and enjoy.

The Bambolim beach has its beach shacks where exotic Goan cuisine can be tasted. The restaurants offer not just amazing food but the very location gives you the combination of beauty and delight. Try the sea food that is prepared here and indulge yourself in sinful gluttony. The food is so good that you can never eat to your heart's content! You can also have the food prepared to your choice and specify if you want it really spicy or mildly hot.

The Bambolim beach resort offers tourists very comfortable accommodation amidst serene surroundings. The resort is fully air conditioned and there are some 126 rooms that are beautifully decorated and have the latest amenities that any good beach resort should have. You can just laze around the resort exploring the various recreational areas, or you can go for a massage at the Ayurvedic massage center to relax your muscles or you can try out the cuisine at the restaurants in the resort. You can be sure to have the time of your life at the Bambolim beach, which has a lot to offer to its visitors.

Benaulim Beach

Location: Near the Colva beach towards the south of Goa
Highlights: Private nightlife, water sports, variety of eating joints
How to Reach: Benaulim beach can be reached easily by either hiring a cab or taking an auto from any place nearby. It is an extension of the Colva beach and can be reached easily.

The history of the Benaulim beach of Goa has an interesting legend behind it. It is said that the land of Goa was formed when the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu known as Parashuram shot an arrow in the sea and it receded to reveal the land of Goa. The place where the arrow fell is known as "Banali" in Sanskrit which was later corrupted by the Portuguese to Benaulim. That is how the Benaulim beach of India received its name. A welcome change from the other commercialized beaches, the Benaulim beach of Goa is a less hyped yet beautiful beach.

The rapid inflow of tourists has turned this once fishing and rice farming village into a popular beach that commands a decent inflow of tourists every year. The Benaulim beach, which hardly made its way to the list of an average backpacker ten years back, has today gained much reputation and fame of being a happening beach in Goa. The Benaulim beach is now famous for its water sports and lavish resorts. A peaceful place, this beach is one of those few beaches that provide unspoilt beauty away from the maddening crowds.

The beach provides a natural landscape and makes the surroundings absolutely photogenic. The tall swaying palm trees, the blue ocean, the golden sands, the wooden boats scattered at strategic places, all make this beach a scene out of Paradise. Occasionally you may find hawkers, fruit sellers, wandering masseurs, roaming on the beach. The Benaulim beach is also popular because people can easily go swimming here as the water is free of jellyfish and other hazards.

Benaulim beach boasts of some of the best eateries. The fresh sea food, cooked in the exotic Goan style and served with a warm smile is unbeatable. Besides restaurants and cafes, you can find some high end resorts and hotels that get booked the minute the tourist season sets in. So book your rooms in advance if you want to enjoy the Benaulim beach without any hassles and tensions.

Bogmalo Beach

Location: 4 kilometers from the Dabolim airport in Goa
Highlights: Bogmalo Oberoi hotel is located on this beach. The beach is also famous for diving expeditions.
How to Reach: Since Bogmalo beach is near the airport, it can be reached easily by hiring a taxi or an auto from the airport or any nearby place.

Bogmalo beach of Goa is small fishing village that is bordered by palm trees and is breathtakingly beautiful. It is located at a distance of 4 kilometers from the Dabolim airport of Goa and can be reached easily by hiring a taxi, auto or a bus. The location of the Bogmalo beach of India is such that it forms the end of the Colva bay. This sandy beach dotted with tall palm trees makes the Colva bay even more beautiful. The Bogmalo beach is relatively clean and not much crowded and that is what makes it attractive to a family as well as a lone traveler.

The Bogmalo beach of Goa is famous for the diving expeditions that tourists can enjoy over here. The water is safe and shallow till quite some distance which makes it ideal for going on a diving expedition. The concerned authorities at the beach provide all necessary facilities for diving at the Bogmalo beach. So if you want to set your adrenalin rushing, you would definitely want to try your hand at diving over here. Though the coastline is not that long, there is plenty of space for diving, swimming and just lazing around.

The beach has many places where you can eat and rest. You must try the local restaurants lined up on the coastline that provide awesome sea food which is sure to be a treat for your taste buds. The food is prepared in true Goan style and the taste will linger on long after you have eaten to your heart's content. The Bogmalo beach is famous for the Bogmalo Oberoi which makes a grand background for the beach. The beautiful Arabian Sea in the foreground and the golden sandy beach with one of the grandest hotel in the background makes the Bogmalo beach the perfect combination of natural beauty and sophistication.

Calangute Beach

Location: 16 kilometers from the capital city, Panaji
Highlights: Known as the "Queen of Beaches" due to its increased popularity
How to Reach: The Calangute beach can be reached quite easily by hiring a cab or an auto from Panaji or any nearby place.

The Calangute beach of Goa is known to be the busiest and the most commercialized beach. This beach is a favorite among tourists who come to India to visit this paradise called Goa. The Calangute beach was discovered by the hippies who came here during the 1960's and made this beach their favorite hideout. As more and more hippies came to know about this beach, it became popular and attracted many more people. The Calangute beach was known as "kolli gutti" in local language which means "land of the fishermen". Due to the Portugal rule the name got corrupted to Calangute.

The Calangute beach of Goa is supposed to be a wonder of nature and a heaven for beach lovers. The long shoreline is dotted with palm trees that sway hypnotically and the vast blue ocean just mesmerizes you into staring at the horizon where the sun sets magically. Sounds tempting? Wait till you get there and see this for yourself. On top of it, the shacks and restaurants located on the coastline offers lip smacking cuisine and chilled beer thus taking care of those hunger pangs that suddenly erupt when you are appreciating this masterpiece of nature.

The beach is lined with local shops and stalls that sell everything like trinkets, souvenirs, beach wear, exotic beach stuff, handicrafts, etc. Don't be afraid to bargain with the shopkeepers. The quality of the items is usually good and if you can bargain well, you can buy most of the things that catch your eye. The handicrafts sold over here are usually from nearby states like Karnataka, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, etc. So you can expect to find some good ethnic stuff in the stalls of the Calangute beach.

Candolim Beach

Location: 14 kilometers to the north of Panaji the capital of Goa
Highlights: Fort Aguda, variety of water sports that can be tried here
How to Reach: Candolim beach can be easily reached from Panaji by hiring a cab or an auto. Regular bus service also ply over here.

Candolim beach is the ideal getaway for those who are looking for a lonely spot in a beach just to relax and wind off. It is also a welcome getaway from those highly crowded and commercialized beaches that are always brimming with tourists. The Candolim beach of Goa will be an ideal getaway for you in India and you can be sure that the beach has much more to offer than just sun, sand and the sea. The beach can be easily reached from any nearby place in Goa and all you need to do is hire a cab or an auto.

Your fatigue will take a backseat when you reach the Candolim beach in Goa. With a variety of water sports being offered for tourists, your tiredness and weariness will vanish in thin air when you run towards the sea like an excited six year old! The Candolim beach offers sports like Para sailing, paragliding, water skiing, wind surfing, fishing, etc. You cannot possibly resist the temptation of soaring like a wild bird over ocean and watch the entire sea and the coastline from the eyes of a bird. The thrill that you get in trying out adventure water sports like paragliding, sailing etc. cannot be described in mere words.

For the less adventurous, the beach offers the wonderful scenery that seems to change every other minute. You can also explore the fort Aguda which forms a spectacular backdrop as against the beach. The wonderful sunset against the blue waters while you sip coconut water sitting between two swaying palm trees is just magical and you have to experience it when you go to the Candolim beach. With a camera in hand and mind blowing scenery in front of you, time will simply fly and you wouldn't even know! Candolim beach is especially magical to look at during twilight and the sky is painted in a tinge of purple while the horizon at the end of the sea looks a faint orange. Visit the Candolim beach to experience this yourself.

Cavelossim Beach

Location: South Goa
Highlights: Beach resorts, dolphin spotting tours and luxury hotels
How to Reach: Cavelossim beach can be easily reached by hiring a cab or an auto from any nearby place in south Goa.

One of the most famous beaches in India, the Cavelossim beach of Goa will give you the experience of a lifetime when you come here for a vacation. Known for its luxury hotels and wonderful beach resorts, the Cavelossim beach knows how to combine style, comfort and beauty. The Cavelossim beach lies in south Goa and is located between the Arabian Sea and the Sal River. The paddy fields in the backdrop and the calm Sal River make the beach look beautiful and create a very soothing ambience. The Cavelossim beach is the ideal beach to enjoy your vacation, relax and pamper yourself in the luxury resorts that are situated very close to the beach.

The Cavelossim beach is famous for its dolphin spotting tours and expeditions. Tourists can rent a boat and ask the concerned authorities to send a guide along. One can also go on sunset cruises on the Sal River. Feel the magic take over as you feel completely at peace with yourself when you see the sun set at a distance and water gets painted golden orange. Swimming is allowed on the beach in the shallow areas but you need to consult the concerned authorities before you jump in the water. Dolphin cruises in the sea are fun and you can be sure to spot a dolphin or two cruising along your boat. If you are lucky enough, they can come real close and allow you to touch them.

The luxury resorts and hotels near the Cavelossim beach in Goa offer world class service and you can be sure to be spoilt silly by the amount of attention they shower on you. You can find everything that you need for a perfect vacation in the resorts near Cavelossim beach. There are some local shacks at the beach also that provide accommodation though it may not be as good as the resorts. But when it comes to sea food and Goan cuisine, the resorts and the shacks score equal points. The food is absolutely delicious and will leave you asking for more. So come to Cavelossim beach and enjoy life in its best form.

Chapora Beach

Location: 10 kilometers from Mapusa, North Goa
Highlights: Chapora fort, local markets
How to Reach: Chapora beach is easily reachable by hiring a taxi or an auto from Mapusa or any other nearby place in north Goa.

Chapora beach of Goa is a small fishing village located at a distance of 10 kilometers from Mapusa in north of Goa. It has managed to ward off commercialization and too many tourists by being essentially a fishing village. The Chapora beach has retained its natural charm and maintains itself on a meager budget and constant efforts of the local villagers. It is nestled under a thick canopy of coconut trees and though the beach is not as vast as other commercialized beaches, tourists come here since it is less crowded and serene.

An added attraction at the Chapora beach is the magnificent Chapora fort that was built many years ago during the Portugal rule. The fort is now in ruins and provides a mystical and dramatic look to the Chapora beach. You can easily go and explore this fort and feel the old world charm that still lingers here. The fort provides a breath taking view of the beach and sure to leave you mesmerized once you go there. One can easily climb the old walls of the fort but be careful as they are really old and you may slip if you are not alert.

The Chapora beach has no dearth of eateries and one can find many small shacks lined up on the beach that offer delectable cuisines along with chilled drinks. There are many cafes and restaurants that you will find on the road to Chapora beach. They offer good services and tasty food at reasonable prices. The food scores full marks and the taste will leave your taste buds craving for more. If the spicy and pungent food leaves you with a grumbling tummy, worry not. You can cool it down by gulping the fresh and chilled milkshakes that are available here. One can always stay at the guesthouses that are located near the Chapora beach and provide good service at decent amounts.

Colva Beach

Location: 6 kilometers from the city of Margao, south Goa
Highlights: White sandy shores, oldest beach of Goa best beach resorts in Goa
How to Reach: Colva beach can be easily reached by hiring a cab, auto or even a bus that plies from Margao or any other major city of south Goa.

Located at a distance of 6 kilometers from Margao, the Colva beach is a wonder of nature. This beautiful beach extends to nearly 20 kilometers and is supposed to be the oldest beach in Goa. The beach has natural white sand of very fine quality, tall coconut trees, turquoise blue water and some of the best resorts that you can find in Goa. If you want to see a scenery that is absolutely picture perfect and looks like a canvas painting, come to Colva beach in India.

The entire stretch of the Colva beach is beautiful and marvelous to look at. It is a favorite among tourists and they come here to spend a nice holiday and pamper themselves in the resorts that are lined up near the beach. The evenings at the beach are truly mesmerizing with sun setting at a distance into the sea and small fishing boats sailing on the calm water coming back home after collecting their catch of the day. The natural splendor of nature at Colva beach can inspire many people to even paint or write poetry.

You will find some of the best beach resorts at Colva. You will also find some very good hotels near the Colva beach that provide world class service and attend to every need of a visitor. On the beach, you will find a variety of things that will keep you amused like souvenir stalls, snack bars, small restaurants, etc. The beach is a delight for shell collectors and you will find beautiful patterned shells over here. People can also enjoy themselves by swimming in the shallow waters as the current is not that strong here and it is considered quite safe to swim in the sea. Get ready for the experience of a lifetime in this Colva beach which is sure to win your heart and make you come again and again!

Dona Paula Beach

Location: 7 kilometers from Panaji, North Goa
Highlights: Water sports, National Oceanography Institute, Cabo Raj Niwas
How to Reach: Dona Paula beach can be easily reached from Panaji or any nearby city by hiring local transport like a cab or a taxi. There is regular bus service to the Dona Paula beach from any nearby place in north Goa.

The Dona Paula beach is one of the most famous beaches of India. The beach is definitely one of the most happening in Goa and for all the right reasons. The Dona Paula beach of Goa is one of the most popular beaches that provide opportunities for trying out water sports in Goa. It is located at a convenient site, at distance of around 7 kilometers from Panaji. This makes it easily accessible as almost every mode of local transport shall take you to the Dona Paula beach. The Dona Paula beach in Goa has an interesting story behind its name. Read about it in the following lines.

According to legends, Dona Paula was the name of the daughter of a viceroy who came to Goa during the colonial period. She fell in love with a local fisherman named Gasper Dias. The viceroy did not approve of their union and prohibited Dona Paula from having any kind of contact with him. Depressed and dejected, she jumped off the cliff into the sea. It is said that even today during a moonlit night, one can suddenly see a faint figure of a woman rising from the waves wearing a pearl necklace. This haunting love story attracts many people to this beach who come here just to feel the haunting presence of a broken heart.

Besides this interesting past, what attracts tourists here is the plethora of water sports that are provided here. One can choose from the milder ones like kayaking, snorkeling, motor boat rides to the wilder ones like windsurfing, parasailing, yachting, etc. It is sure to set your adrenalin rushing and this will be one holiday that you are not going to forget for a long time to come. If you are not the one with an adventure streak, worry not. Visit the National Oceanography Institute and check out the impressive Marine Biology Museum there. You can also check out Cabo Raj Niwas which is the Governor's house and it is said that Dona Paula was entombed here. So visit Dona Paula beach of Goa and have the experience of a lifetime.

Majorda Beach

Location: Majorda beach is located in Salcete district in Goa
Highlights: European bakeries, beach resorts and luxury hotels
How to Reach: Majorda beach is very easily accessible as it is very close to the airport and the Margao railway station.

One of the most popular beaches, Majorda beach of Goa is located on the 26 kilometer stretch of fine white sand. This lovely beach looks absolutely mesmerizing with its white sands, blue water and swaying coconut trees. The blue sky and white clouds above only make it look even more magical and picturesque. The Majorda beach also has historical significance in India. It is believed that Lord Rama (of the Indian epic Ramayana) was kidnapped when he was a kid and was brought here.

The Majorda beach is famous for other reasons too apart from the scenic sands and the blue sea. This beautiful beach is very popular for its bakery and it specializes in the baking of European bread. The bread is fermented by using the juice of coconut palm also known as today juice. This bread is famous till date and numerous tourists come here to taste it. Apart from this, Majorda is also famous for its huge variety of sea food that leaves you only craving for more.

There are a number of luxury beach resorts and deluxe hotels located near the Majorda. These resorts and hotels offer world class services and make sure that tourists have the time of their lives while on this vacation in Goa. In case your budget does not allow you to splurge on luxury resorts and five star hotels, you can always try out budget hotels and local accommodation like guesthouses and shacks on the beach. These places also offer good quality services at reasonable prices and have rooms to suit every pocket. So come to Majorda beach and have the vacation that you have always dreamt of.

Miramar Beach

Location: 3 kilometers from Panaji, capital city of Goa
Highlights: Confluence of Arabian Sea and River Mandovi, famous spot for viewing migratory birds
How to Reach: Miramar beach is easily reachable from any place in north Goa as it is very close to the capital city Panaji. One can hire local transport to reach the Miramar beach in Goa.

Located at a distance of just 3 kilometers from the capital city Panaji, the Miramar beach in Goa is definitely worth the visit. It is easily accessible as it is quite close to the capital city and any kind of local transport like taxi, auto or a bus can take you there. The Miramar beach is located at the confluence of the Arabian Sea and an estuary of River Mandovi. The Miramar beach is also known by the name of Gaspar Dias. The beach was named Miramar by the Portuguese when they came to India and the name essentially means "viewing the sea".

The Miramar beach is a beautiful expanse of fine golden sands that is dotted with tall coconut trees. The vast blue sea in front of the beach is just mesmerizing and during sunset, looks absolutely marvelous. The beach is lined with thick covering of palm trees that provide an exotic look to the beach. Tourists can always take a long walk under the shady trees and relax on the beach. The Miramar beach looks magical on a moonlit night when the silver moonlight makes the sand glow in a whitish silver shade.

The Miramar beach is thronged by numerous winged guests during the migrating period. Tourists frequent this place during the time the migratory birds come here. One can find over 500 species of birds like gulls, plovers, etc. coming to the Miramar beach every winter in order to escape the harsh winters of the north. The beach provides the ideal site for them to stop and nourish themselves. Food is available in plenty in the form of small fish, crabs and other small aquatic creatures. They provide tourists an opportunity to capture them in their cameras as they fly and dive here and there. So visit Miramar beach for this magical experience.

Palolem Beach

Location: Canacona district in south Goa
Highlights: Dolphin trips, fishing trips and swimming
How to Reach: Palolem beach can be reached very easily from anywhere in south Goa by hiring local transport and it is just 3 kilometers from Konkan railway station.

The Palolem beach is the most popular beach in south Goa. In fact, one can reach Palolem beach even from Karnataka in India, since it flanks Goa towards the south. The Palolem beach is considered to be the most photogenic beach in Goa since it has a crescent shaped coastline and fine white sand. The coast is lined with swaying coconut trees that form the most picturesque beach when seen in totality with the white sand and the blue sea.

Many tourists frequent the Palolem beach yet it looks tidy and well maintained. One of the major attractions at the beach is the ferry rides that are provided for tourists to ride over the seas and spot dolphins. Don't be surprised to find dolphins cruising along suddenly with your ferry and if you are lucky they might come close enough for you to touch them. It is the perfect beach to relax and unwind with nature in its best form.

The Palolem beach was discovered by tourists long back but it was developed in the recent past. Now, you can find seaside shacks and local stalls here that offer anything and everything that Goa is famous for like sea food, curios, souvenirs, beachwear, etc. The Palolem beach is usually filled with tourists and locals during the weekends, so if you are looking forward to calm down and loosen up go to the beach on a weekday. You will find few guesthouses and shacks here that offer accommodation, so it is better you come here to spend some time rather than come here to stay. Make it a point to visit the Palolem beach in Goa for an unforgettable experience.

Vagator Beach

Location: In Mapusa, North Goa at a distance of 22 kilometers from Panaji
Highlights: Freshwater springs, Old Portuguese fort, scenic beauty
How to Reach: Vagator beach can be easily reached from any major city in north Goa or from Panaji by hiring a cab, auto or a bus.

One of those few beaches with a naturally mystical look, the Vagator beach does not have to try too hard to attract visitors. It is located in north of Goa in Mapusa district and can be reached easily by hiring a taxi or an auto. Certain buses from Mapusa also come to the Vagator beach. This lovely beach has been the locale of many film shootings in India. The beach looks absolutely ravishing with red laterite cliffs and black lava rocks here and there on the fine white sand. The swaying coconut trees and turquoise blue sea with a ship on the horizon looks like painting moving in front of your eyes.

Another dramatic effect to the beach is given by the 500 year old Portuguese fort situated on the beach. The fort provides breath taking view of the sea and the beach and you can click some really stunning pictures from the fort. These factors make the beach truly enjoyable and worth visiting. It is the perfect place to be if you are looking for a romantic holiday with your beloved or a quick getaway with your best friend. The beauty of the beach provides the perfect treat for your soul.

The Vagator beach is also famous for the freshwater springs. The tourist inflow at the Vagator beach is quite relaxed thus making it a laid back destination. You can easily let your hair down and be at peace with yourself as you let the magic of unspoilt nature take over you. The Vagator is split into two beaches known as north Vagator and mini Vagator beach. These beaches are very popular with mostly British tourists who come here to enjoy the natural beauty of unspoilt surroundings. So come visit the Vagator beach and experience the magic first hand.

Varca Beach

Location: 2 kilometers from Benaulim, south Goa
Highlights: Unspoilt beauty, Benaulim beach just 2 kilometers away
How to Reach: Varca beach can be reached easily in south Goa by hiring a taxi or an auto. Any local transport can bring you to Varca beach.

The Varca beach in Goa is not as commercialized and crowded as other major beaches of Goa. Instead the quiet beach attracts visitors without fail since it is less crowded and cleaner than other big beaches. Come to Varca beach if you want a holiday in India that is absolutely relaxing and rejuvenating. The Varca beach has soft sandy shores dotted with coconut trees and the turquoise blue sea right in front. Nature is virtually unspoilt over here and you can really indulge yourself in some soul searching and moments of peace.

The Varca beach is ideal for just lazing around and exploring local shacks. The idea is to be free of any hassles of exploring and sight seeing and just do what your mind feels like. You can also hire a boat and go out boating in the sea with an expert guide. You can also spot dolphins if you are lucky enough. There are many local shacks and restaurants near the beach that provide exceptional Goan food. You have to try the sea food or your trip to Goa is incomplete. Finding a place to eat should be your last thought.

The Varca beach offers decent accommodation. You can find resorts, deluxe hotels as well as budget hotels near the beach that offer good services and also suit different budgets. You can pamper yourself silly at the resorts with an Ayurvedic massage or stay at the budget hotels that provide good quality service and true Goan lifestyle even though they are not as extravagant as resorts and deluxe hotels. When you visit Varca beach, you can be sure to the time of your life in this place.

Ajmer

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Ajmer

Ajmer situated in the green oasis wrapped in the barren hills has been a witness to an interesting past. The city was founded by Raja Ajai Pal Chauhan in the 7th century A.D. and continued to be a major centre of Chauhan power. When Prithviraj Chauhan lost it to Mohammed Ghauri leaving behind indelible marks of their culture and traditions on the cities history, converting it to an amalgam of various cultures and a blend of Hinduism and Islam.

Places to Visit:-

The Dargah : At the foot of a barren hill, is situated India's most important Piligrimage centre for people from all faith. It is the splendid tomb of the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, more popularly known as Khwaja Sharif.

Mayo College : One of Indian's best public schools located in the south east of the city. It was founded in 1875 A.D. only for the princes. Each prince along with his entire retinue and an English tutor had his own house in the spacious college grounds covering 81 hectares. Now it is a public school open to all.

Shahjahan's Mosque : In the corner of the inner court of the Dargah, is a magnificent building in white marble with a long (30.5) and narrow court having low arcade and delicate carvings with trellis work. It is the most marvellous all the sanctums within the sanctuary of the Dargah.

Adhai-Din-Ka-Jhonpra : A remarkable structure, this is a masterpiece of Indo Islamic architecture located on the outskirts of the city. Just beyond the Dargah. As the legend goes, its construction took two and a half days. (Adhai-Din) to complete. It was originally a Sanskrit college, built within a temple. In 1193 A.D. Mohammad Ghauri conquered Ajmer and converted the building into a mosque by adding a seven arched wall in front of the pillared hall in just two-and-a-half days (adhai-din) and hence the name. The district pillars and arched "screen with its ruined minarets make it a splendid architectural masterpiece.

Taragarh Fort : A steep one and half hour climb beyond the Adhai-Din-ka-Jhonpra leads to the ruins of the Taragarh Fort, perched on a hill. One can have an excellent view of the city from here. The fort was the site of the military activity during the Mughal period later used as a sanatorium by the British.

The Museum : Once the royal residence of Emperor Akbar, the museum houses a rich repository of the Mughal and Rajput armor and exquisite sculptures.

The Circuit House : The former British Residency, overlooking the artificial lake, Ana sagar, has now been converted to the circuit House. The lake and the cenotaph and the shrine of the Hindu reformer Swami Dayanand, founder of the Arya Samaj movement in India,can be viewed from here.

Pushkar Lake (11km.) : The lake, situated on the edge of desert and surrounded by hills on the three sides is separated from Ajmer by Nag Pahar-the snake mountain. On this mountain the Panchkund and the cave of saint Agastya are located. It is believed that Kalidasa the 4th century Sanskrit poet and playwright, choose the setting for its masterpiece "Abhigyana Shakuntalam" in this forest heritage. According to legend, the origin of Pushkar dates back to the time when Lord Brahma was on his way in search of a tranquil land to perform a "Yagna", A lotus fell from the hand of the Lord into this valley. A lake spring upon this spot and was dedicate to him. A Brahma temple located here is a popular place of pilgrimage.

Puskhar Fair : It is one of the most colourful fairs of India. Lakhs of pilgrims throng the lake during the annual cattle fair. Beside trading of horse camels, cows and bulls, there are exciting camel-cart races and culturalecents, clothes household items and leather goods are for sale during the fair on the full moon of Kartik (Nov.), pilgrims take a holy dip in the lake.

Man Mahal : Along the banks of the Pushkar Lake is the former residence of Raja Man Singh of Ajmer, Man Mahal. Presently it is covered to RTDC sarvour Tourist Bunglow ensuring convenient accommodation to travelers. Pushkar palace (Kishagarh House) adjoining it is a heritage hotel.

Foy Sagar (5km) : A picturesque artificial lake named after the engineer foy who created it under a famine relief project.

Rajasthan

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Rajasthan

Rajasthan is rich in architecture and is a delight for all kinds of tourists with its sandy dunes, mighty forts, lush blossoming gardens, shimmering lakes and outstanding monuments. The medieval zeal of honor among the Rajputs rings true in Chittorgarh Fort, men and women alike, while the romantic reverie hovers over the island palaces of Lake Pichola. One can almost see the shy royal ladies chuckling to see the royal procession on the roads of Jaipur, unseen and safe behind the screens of Hawa Mahal. The religious fervor of the staunch devotees at Dargah Sharief at Ajmer and Shrinath ji at Nathdwara is no less than the grandeur of City Palace of Jaipur and astronomical wonders of Jantar Mantar. We present here a list of the top favorite tourists' places that are not worth a miss in this land of wonders:

Albert Hall Museum

Positioned amidst the gardens of Ram Niwas Bagh in Jaipur, this museum has an assortment of rare articles on its display including textiles, carpets, paintings, metal and wood crafts, pottery, arms and weapons.

Amer Palace

Raja Man Singh built Amer Palace in 16th century. It is a mesmerizing blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Rajputs made use of the Amber Fort from the 16th century up to the foundation of Jaipur in 1727 both for defense purpose as well as the residential purposes.

City Palace

Situated in the capital of Rajasthan, the City Palace of Jaipur or the chief palace is a titillating fusion of conventional Rajasthan and Mughal architecture. The gigantic palace complex engages one seventh of the walled city of Jaipur.

Chittorgarh Fort

The Chittorgarh Fort has witnessed three bloody sieges and 'jauhars' (a Rajput tradition in which royal maidens and ladies immolate themselves in the fire to save their honor from the cruel hands of the enemy, when there is no chance of defeating the enemy).

Dargah Sharif

'Dargah Sharif' or 'Holy Dargah' is one of the most sacred Muslim shrines in the country. Venerated by both Hindus and Muslims, it is the tomb of Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chisti, a Sufi saint who came from Persia and devoted his life to the service and upliftment of the poor and downtrodden.

Fateh Sagar Lake

The pretty Fateh Sagar Lake of Udaipur is located to the north of Lake Pichola was originally built in 1678 by Maharana Jai Singh as a medium-sized perennial storage reservoir. Surrounded by holls on three sides and Pratap Memorial on the fourth, it presents captivating scenery.

Havelis of Jaisalmer

The beautiful sandstone mansions of Jaisalmer's wealthy merchants are known as 'havelis'. Their elaborate homes are a poem etched out in sandstone with infinite details and pains, carved and pieced together in different patterns, and though they are lavish and loud in nature.

Hawa Mahal

Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh erected Hawa Mahal or the Palace of the Wind in 1799, which eventually became one of the major landmarks of Jaipur. An integral part of the City Palace, it is actually an extension of its women's chambers, and is secluded from the main complex.

Jantar Mantar

In Sanskrit, 'Jantar Mantar' is used for 'Magical Devices' and it is undoubtedly so with the huge masonry instruments, which were placed here to measure 'the harmony of the heavens'. Conceived by Sawai Raja Jai Singh II, it was completed in seven years from 1728 to 1734.

Lake Pichola

Maharaja Udai Singh did not underestimate the panoramic beauty of Lake Pichola surrounded by beautiful hills when he chose to widen it. Later Maharaja Jagjit Singh conceptualized the two beautiful island palaces in the middle of the lake, now, known as Jag Niwas (the much-renowned Lake Palace) and Jag Mandir that adds to the shimmering beauty of the lake.

Pushkar

Pushkar is one of the most famous Hindu pilgrimage sites and it is said that a dip in the sacred lake of Pushkar is akin to the visits to the four main Hindu shrines known as 'Chaar Dhaam'. The charming lake of Pushkar is surrounded by hills on three sides and sand dunes on the fourth and presents an ideal site for the religious and cattle fair, which is held every year in the month of October or November.

Sahelion Ki Bari

Saheliyon-ki-Bari or the 'Garden of the Maids of Honor' of Udaipur was once reserved for the royal ladies who came here for a stroll. A well planned garden, with extensive lawns and shady walks situated on the banks of the dainty Fateh Sagar Lake was constructed in 18th century by Maharana Sangram Singh for forty-eight young ladies-in-waiting sent to the royal house, as part of the dowry as a cool summer retreat for them.

Shrinathji Temple

48 km from Udaipur, Shrinathji of Nathdwara is actually a temple of Lord Krishna with his image carved out of a single block of black marble. Set amidst idyllic hills, it is said to be the second richest temple in the world. The royalty of Udaipur pray at the temple and as the head of his clan, the Maharana is also called as Shriji among his people.

Umaid Bhawan Palace

The famine had struck the arid and barren land of Jodhpur and farmers were dying of hunger as their lands yielded nothing and they had no money to buy food. It was then, when like a judicious king, Maharaja Umaid Singh of Jodhpur undertook the construction of this magnificent building as a famine relief project to provide employment and a regular source of income to his subjects.

Delhi

2012-01-13T07:50:00.001-08:00

Places to See in Delhi

There are several places to see, visit, and explore in New Delhi. New Delhi is an international metropolis with excellent tourist spots, recreational facilities, and a history that goes back to antiquity. A remarkable feature of New Delhi is the extent of greenery all over. New Delhi is also a dream city for visitors looking for items of handicrafts, not only the rich artistic crafts of its own craftsmen but also of craftsmen from all over the country. New Delhi offers a multitude of interesting places and attractions to the visitor, so much so that it becomes difficult to decide from where to begin exploring the city.

India Gate

A memorial inscribed with the names of the valiant Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in World War I. The green, velvety lawns at India Gate, particularly, are a popular evening and holiday rendezvous for young and old alike. A must visit place in New Delhi.

Rashtrapati Bhawan

Modern New Delhi, or New Delhi as it is called, centers around the Rashtrapati Bhawan. It is architecturally a very impressive building standing at a height, flowing down as it were to India Gate. This stretch called the Rajpath is where the Republic Day parade is held. The imposing plan of this area conceived by Lutyens does not fade in its charm with the numerous summers or winters that go past. For lovers of flowers and beauty, the annual spring opening of the glorious, meticulously tended Mughal Gardens at the stately Rashtrapati Bhawan is a bonanza topped by an amazing assembly of roses in perfect bloom-perhaps the best in the whole of India. Mughal Gardens is indeed a place to see.

Red Fort

In Old Delhi, you may visit the ramparts of the Red Fort. The decision for constructing the fort was taken in 1639, when Shahjahan decided to shift his capital to New Delhi from Agra. Within eight years, Shahjahanabad was completed with the Red Fort-Qila-i-Mubarak (fortunate citadel)-New Delhi's seventh fort, ready in all its magnificence to receive the Emperor. The Red Fort still retains some of its lost glory. The Red Fort was the last fort built in New Delhi and it witnessed the vicissitudes of fortune, the splendour and the fall of the Mughals, British rule, and finally the dawn of Indian Independence. A place must see by all tourists visiting Delhi.

Raj Ghat

Raj Ghat On the bank of the legendary Yamuna, which flows past New Delhi, there is Raj Ghat-the last resting place of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation. It has become an essential point of call for all visiting dignitaries. Besides Raj Ghat the other near by places must see in New Delhi are the two museums dedicated to Gandhi.

Qutab Minar

The Qutab Minar is located at a small village called Mehrauli in South New Delhi. Qutub-ud-din Aibek of the Slave Dynasty, who took possession of New Delhi in 1206, built it. It is a fluted red sandstone tower, which tapers up to a height of 72.5 metres and is covered with intricate carvings and verses from the holy Qur'an. The landmark of New Delhi is a place to see.

Laxminarayan Temple

Also called the Birla Mandir, the Laxminarayan Temple was built by the Birla family in 1938. It is a temple with a large garden and fountains behind it. The temple attracts thousands of devotees on Janmashtami day, the birthday of Lord Krishna. The temple is a place to visit by most of the tourist coming to New Delhi.

Humayun's Tomb

Humayun's wife Haji Begum built his Tomb nine years after his death. Designed by a Persian architect named Mirak Mirza Ghiyas, and completed in 1565, the edifice was a trendsetter of the time by remains a must visit place in New Delhi till date.

Chandni Chowk

The living legacy of New Delhi is Shahjahanabad. Created by the builder of Taj Mahal, this city, with the Red Fort as the focal point and Jama Masjid as the praying centre, has a fascinating market planned to shine under the light of the moon, called Chandni Chowk. Shahjahan planned Chandni Chowk so that his daughter could shop for all that she wanted. It was divided by canals filled with water, which glistened like silver in moonlight. The canals are now closed, but Chandni Chowk remains Asia's largest wholesale market. A must visit place in New Delhi

Shanti Vana

Lying close to the Raj Ghat, the Shanti Vana (literally, the forest of peace) is the place where India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru was cremated. The area is now a beautiful park adorned by trees planted by visiting dignitaries and heads of state.

Bahai Temple/Lotus Temple

The Bahai Temple, situated in South New Delhi, is shaped like a lotus. It is an eye-catching edifice worth exploring. Built by the Baha'i community, it offers the visitor a serenity that pervades the temple and its artistic design.

Purana Quila

The Purana Quila is a good example of medieval military architecture. Built by Humayun, with later-day modifications by Sher Shah Suri, the Purana Quila is a monument of bold design, which is strong, straightforward and every inch a fortress. It is different from the well planned, carefully decorated, and palatial forts of the later Mughal rulers. Purana Quila is also different from the later forts of the Mughals, as it does not have a complex of palaces, administrative and recreational buildings, as is generally found in the forts built later on. The main purpose of this now-dilapidated fort was its utility, with less emphasis on decoration. The Qal'a-I-Kunha Masjid and the Sher Mandal are two important monuments inside the fort.

Tourist places around Rishikesh

2012-01-11T07:53:00.000-08:00

Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a holy city on the banks of the River Ganges. This holy city a part of Dehradun district is called the Devbhoomi and is considered as the doorway to Himalayas. Located in the magnificent foothills of Himalayas, this place in Northern India attracts huge number of tourists and pilgrims from all parts of the country to offer their prayers at this holy site.

Ancient history suggests the presence of Rishikesh in the legendary “Kedarkhand” region. In mythological scriptures Lord Rama meditated and practiced penance at this place after he executed of Ravana. Lord Rama’s younger brother Lord Laxmana crossed the Ganga from here due to which the popular Laxman Jhula was constructed.

Originally, Laxman Jhula was built from jute rope. This rope bridge was quite unsafe and was replaced with a stronger iron- rope bridge in 1889. Due to floods in 1924 the bridge was damaged and finally replaced with a stronger suspension bridge supported from strong engineering labour.

Rishikesh offers several tourist attractions right from religious locations to thrilling adventure sport activities. Religious places include Gita Bhawan, Nilkanth Mahadev, Triveni Ghat and Swarga Ashram. A walk on Laxman Jhula is visited by many tourists.

Rishikesh embodies many popular yoga and meditation centre. There are private universities which have short term yoga courses that attract international tourists and visitors. Rishikesh, sometimes also referred to as World Capital of Yoga as it is a perfect place to learn and study yoga meditation and other spiritual practices.

On the other hand after attaining peace and tranquillity, adventure sports and trekking forms a major reason to lure tourists from all parts of country. White water rafting is the main thrilling adventure sport that is popular amongst water sports. River crossing is yet another challenging sport in which the individual is supposed to cross the river sliding on a single rope just above the heavy water currents of River Ganga.

Other surrounding districts are Tehri Garhwal and Pauri Garhwal, whose governing agencies have brought a ban on the use of plastic bags and selling of alcohol in the city, thus making it an alcohol free district. Another holy city Haridwar is just 25 km away, which is also located on the Ganges.

Abounding in magnificent temples and ashrams, Rishikesh occupies a prominent place on the tourist map of north India. This place holds a lot of importance for the Hindu pilgrims as it is the point from where the journey to the Char Dhams (four sacred spots) begins. Blessed with varied natural wonders, Rishikesh is an ideal spot for the pilgrimage and adventure tourism in the state of Uttarakhand (formerly Uttaranchal). Here, you will come across a number of fascinating attractions and some of the noteworthy tourist attractions in Rishikesh are:

Bharat Mandir -

It is an engrossing temple established by Adiguru Shankaracharya near in the 8th century AD. It is in the center of the old town on the Banks of the River Ganges. According to the ancient records, it is one of the oldest temples of Rishikesh and is among the most important places to visit in Rishikesh. In the inner sanctum, you will find an idol of lord Vishnu. Several old statues, coins, pots and other artifacts of historical importance have been found during recent excavations within the premises.

Rishikund -

It is located adjacent to Triveni Ghat and is one of the most significant among the tourist attractions in Rishikesh. According to the legend, this pond was saturated by Goddess Yamuna and it mirrors the temple of Ragunath, which is devoted to lord Rama and his wife.

Triveni Ghat -

It is a sacred spot where the pilgrims swarm to for a holy dip. A large number of pilgrims throng in to this place every evening to attend the Ganga Arti that takes place at this Ghat.

Geeta Bhawan -

This is the oldest temple complex in the entire area and you can find the description of well-known Indian epic Ramayana and Mahabharata on its walls. Only peace and harmony seem to dwell at this place and it is must visit among the tourist attractions in Rishikesh.

Lakshman Jhula -

It is one of the most prominent landmarks at Rishikesh. This is a suspended bridge and was built in the year 1929. According to the beliefs, the river at this place is said to have been crossed by Rama’s brother Lakshman using a jute rope. To savor the panoramic views of the surroundings and the cool breeze, this bridge is an ideal spot.

Ashrams -

The ashrams strewn all over the town are indisputably the leading tourist attractions in Rishikesh. On your tour to Rishikesh, you will come across lots of them. Most of them impart spiritual studies and lessons on meditation and well-being of the mind. Some of the leading ones are Paremarth Niketan, Sivanand Ashram, Yoga Niketan, Omkaranand Ashram, Vanprastha Ashram, Shankaracharya Nagar Transcendental Meditation Centre, Vithal Ashram and Yoga Study Centre.

Find useful travel information regarding Rishikesh tourist attractions on the site touristplacesinindia.com that also offers valuable inputs on the other places of tourist interest in India.

NARENDRANAGAR -

Over the past few years, Narendranagar has gained much popularity as a small hill station in Uttarakhand. If you are a spa lover, you can not afford to miss a visit to this place. It has become popular, as it is where the world renowned spa resort 'Ananda in the Himalayas' is located. World class yoga and alternative therapeutic treatment is offered at the spa. The galvanizing environment of the Himalayas (Shivalik ranges) and the eye-catching views of the Ganges contribute much to the picturesque location of the spa resort. Being the one-time capital of the former state of Tehri, Narendranagar is also home to many palaces of the former King Narendra Shah.

SHIVPURI -

It is a rafter's paradise. If you are a river rafting enthusiast, Shivpuri offers you some of the most thrilling adventure opportunities. The stretch of River Ganges here has multiple excellent rapids, categorized from Grade I to Grade V. Whether you are a first-timer, a non-swimmer or a seasoned adrenaline junkie, there are opportunities for all abilities. Camping at Shivpuri has also its own unique taste. Starting from Shivpuri, you can choose to raft along popular Ganges rapids including Three Blind Mice, Sweet Sixteen, Cross Fire, Roller Coaster, Golf Course etc.

CHILLA -

The state of Uttarakhand welcomes tourists of all backgrounds and tastes. If you are a wildlife lover holidaying in Rishikesh, you can also plan to visit Chilla, where the popular Rajaji National Park is located. Spread over an area of 820.42 sq km, the national park shelters around 23 mammalian species and 315 avian species. Popular wildlife species to watch here include elephant, tiger, panther, wild cat, bear, wild boar, sambar, python, monitor lizard, king cobra etc.

HARIDWAR -

One of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage destinations in India, Haridwar is world popular for its Ganges ghats, temples and of course the Kumbh Mela. The word 'Haridwar' is a combination of two Hindi words- 'Hari' (meaning god) and 'dwar' (meaning gateway). That is why, Haridwar is referred to as the Gateway to God. The Mansa Devi Temple and the Har ki Puri ghat are two of the most important tourist attractions here. The Ganga Arti ceremony, performed at the Har ki Pauri ghat, is a spectacle to watch for all.

CHAMBA -

Tucked away at an elevation of around 1,676 m, Chamba lies in the Tehri district of the state of Uttarakhand. The region has come into limelight owing to its unpolluted beauty and tranquility that it offers to tourists. Dense deodar and pine forests surround Chamba from all sides, making it a tourist destination of exquisite beauty. The village lifestyle and culture of the people living in small villages around Chamba is also of much interest to travelers. From Rishikesh, tourists can reach Chamba easily by undertaking a 2 hours road journey. Tourist bungalows are also available at Chamba for accommodation purpose.

KUNJAPURI MATA MANDIR -

The temple has the distinction of being counted among the 52 shaktipeeths (sacred places of cosmic power). The temple stands on top of a hill. To reach the temple from the foot of the hill, tourists and devotees need to climb up a flight of 80 steps. From upon the hillock, where the temple is located, tourists can also afford eye-catching views of the Garhwal Himalayan peaks including Banderpunch, Chaukhamba and Swarga Rohini among others.

Photos of Varanasi

2012-01-10T09:06:00.000-08:00

Photos of Varanasi

Varanasi

2012-01-10T06:07:00.000-08:00

Varanasi

Being the oldest city of the world and an important Hindu pilgrimage center, Varanasi attracts a large number of people from all over the world. For centuries, Varanasi is famous for spiritualism, mysticism, Indian philosophy and Hinduism. All these are reflected in numerous sects, temples, Ashrams and Ghats. Varanasi is associated not only with Hinduism but also with Buddhism and Jainism. Besides numerous temples, Varanasi also boasts of Buddhist Stupas and Jain temples. Varanasi is also a mirror of the age-old Indian civilization. The archaeological museum at Sarnath houses numerous remains of the past, including the National emblem of India, the Ashoka pillar.

Since Varanasi is mainly associated with Hinduism, temples form the main attraction. The Ganga Ghats (river fronts) are the main center of religious activities and rituals and also form one of the main attractions of Varanasi. The Alamgir Mosque, blend of the Hindu and Mughal styles of the architecture, is another important attraction of Varanasi. Some of the most important temples of Varanasi are Durga temple, Vishwanath temple, Sankat Mochan temple, Tulsi Manas temple and the Bharat Mata temple. The Bharat Mata Temple houses a huge relief map of the whole of Indian subcontinent and Tibetan plateau. Other attractions of Varanasi are the Benaras Hindu University (BHU), the Archaeological Museum, Sarnath, Bharat Kala Bhavan and the Buddhist Stupas and temples at Sarnath.

Festivals of Varanasi

Varanasi is the most popular pilgrimage place for the Hindus. The rich cultural heritage and tradition of Varanasi makes it the cultural capital of India. For ages, Varanasi has been a center of learning of Indian philosophy, spiritualism, mysticism and other branches of education. Varanasi is essentially a melting pot of Indian culture. In Hindu religion, it is believed that one, who dies and is cremated at Varanasi, gets an instant gateway to liberation from the cycle of births and re-births. Being associated with Hindu traditions and religion, Varanasi is home to numerous temples, muths and Ashrams.

By virtue of its religious and cultural importance, Varanasi is abuzz with fairs and festivals all round the year. Almost every month, some important festival is celebrated in Varanasi. Besides festivals and holidays, many "Melas" or fairs are also held at Varanasi. At Varanasi, fairs and festivals are celebrated with traditional gaiety and fervor and are symbolic of celebration of life at its best. The festive atmosphere never seems to end in Varanasi. It's not important to make itinerary according to the dates and months as one can come and enjoy the festive season of Varanasi anytime of the year!

Shopping in Varanasi

Silk weaving is perhaps the most popular art of Varanasi and Banarasi silk sarees form an indispensable part of an Indian bride's trousseau. The world-famous gold and silver brocades and richly worked saris are known to have passed on from generations to generations much like family jewels without loosing their charm. Besides Banarasi saris and brocades, you may look for wonderful pieces of brassware, copperware, wooden and clay toys and antique designs of heavy gold jewellery in Varanasi.

Other shopping attractions of Varanasi include the hand-knotted carpets of Mirzapur, musical instruments, the 'khatta-meetha' (sweet 'n' sour) 'Langda Aam', a popular variety of mangoes available during summer season and the famous betel leaf that is considered a specialty of the place. Benarasi people can be seen chewing betel leaves as a part of their cultural upbringing and they even welcome their guests by offering them the famous betel leaves.

The shopping hotspots in Varanasi are Chowk, Gyan Vapi, Vishwanath Gali, Thatheri Bazar, Lahurabir, Godoulia or Dashswamedh Gali and Golghar. Besides the illustrious and fine silks and brocaded fabrics, one can also buy shawls, carpets, wall hangings, Zari work; stone inlay work, glass beads and bangles, masks of Hindu and Buddhist deities and lampshades. However, one has to be on watch while buying silk saris and beware of the imitations that are much cheaper than the real silk ones but are not so easy to distinguish.

One can also buy 'kamandalam' or brass water pot from Varanasi, which is often used by saints to carry water. People buy bottled 'Ganga jal' or jerrycans from the riverbank too for religious purposes or to be used as Holy Water in various rituals. Besides, people can also take water of Ganges themselves from the river.

Art & Culture of Varanasi

The art and culture of Varanasi is unique. It is the rich cultural tradition of Varanasi that makes it the cultural capital of India. A combination of archaeology, mythology, geography, art and history makes Varanasi a great center of Indian culture. Though Varanasi is associated mainly with Hinduism and Buddhism but one can find glimpse of many religious beliefs, types of worship and religious institutions at Varanasi. It is amazing to see the primitive worship cults being practiced at Varanasi.

Varanasi presents a complete museum of Indian art and culture. At Varanasi one can feel the changing patterns and movements in course of history. It has a rich and unique style of art forms and folk art. For centuries, Varanasi has produced master craftsmen and earned name and fame for its beautiful Sarees, handicrafts, textiles, toys, ornaments, metal work, clay and woodwork and other crafts.

Since ancient times, Varanasi has been the Capital of all knowledge (sarva Vidya ki Rajdhani). Varanasi has produced numerous famous scholars and intellectuals, who have left their mark in respective fields of activity. Varanasi is home to numerous universities, college, schools, Madarsas and Pathshalas and the Guru Shishya tradition still continue in many institutions. The literary tradition of languages, dialects, newspapers, magazines and libraries continue to even this day.

Varanasi presents a unique social and cultural fabric. Cultural and linguist pluralism and various ethnic groups are so very eternal to the holy city, Varanasi. At Varanasi one gets to explore the city of affluence, intellectuals, oral traditions, castes and customs, personalities, professions and communal harmony. There is another interesting facet to Varanasi, where one gets to enjoy Benarasi pans, Thandai, Gamcha, Bahri Alang and Mauj Masti.

Music, drama and entertainment are all synonymous with Varanasi. Benaras has long been famous for its music, both vocal and instrumental and has its own dance traditions. Add to this, Varanasi has a very rich stock of folk music and drama (esp. Ramlila), fairs and festival and the rich tradition of akharas, games and sports. All these combine together to give a distinct look to the city of moksha, Varanasi.

Varanasi Ghats

Varanasi or Kashi is older than traditions. Varanasi presents a unique combination of physical, metaphysical and supernatural elements. According to the Hindu mythology, Varanasi liberates soul from human body to the ultimate. It is the Ganga Ghats of Varanasi that complement the concept of divinity. Ghats of Ganga are perhaps the holiest spots of Varanasi. The Ganga Ghats at Varanasi are full of pilgrims who flock to the place to take a dip in the holy Ganges, which is believed to absolve one from all sins.

There are number of temples on the bank of the Ganga river in Varanasi. It is believed that people are cleansed physically, mentally and spiritually at Ganga Ghats. It is at the Ganga Ghats where we see life and death together. For thousands of years people have been thronging these Ghats to offer their morning prayers to the rising sun. There are more than 100 ghats along side Ganga in Varanasi. Some of the prominent and popular Ghats at Varanasi are the Dasaswamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Harischandra Ghat, Kabir Ghat and Assi Ghat.

Bharat Kala Bhavan

Located within the BHU campus, Bharat Kala Bhavan is an art-and-architecture museum, which puts to display a huge collection of Hindu and Buddhist sculptures, paintings and various other artifacts.

Jantar Mantar

An observatory built by Jaipur’s Maharaja Jai Singh, Jantar Mantar was built to measure the local time, declination of the Sun, the stars and planets, and to determine eclipses. Till date, it contains several masonry instruments to record the same, including the Krantivritta Yantra, Samrat Yantra, Digansha Yantra, Prakash Yantra, Ram Yantra, Dhruva Yantra and Disha Yantra.

Ramnagar Fort

Located on the opposite bank of the Ganges, about 14 kms from Varanasi, this fort is the ancestral home of the Maharaja of Banaras.

The Temples

A City of Temples, Varanasi is home to numerous Hindu temples which attract a large number of devotees from all over the world. Notable among these tourist places in Varanasi are the Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Golden Temple), Durga Temple, Kedaresvara Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple and Shitala Temple. One of the most revered and sacred Hindu temples, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is renowned all over the world. It is believed that every Hindu wishes to visit this temple at least once in a lifetime. The Bharat Mata Temple contains a huge relief map of the Indian subcontinent and Tibetan plateau.

Historic Monuments and Educational Institutions

Also prominent among the tourist destinations in Varanasi is the Ramnagar Fort and Palace, located about 14 kilometers from Varanasi. This fort is the ancestral home of the Maharaja of Banaras, and now serves as a museum. Places to see in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh also include the Banaras Hindu University (BHU), which is one of India’s greatest centers of learning, especially for subjects like philosophy, religion, classical languages and culture.

There are a number of other tourist destinations in Varanasi worth seeing like the ABC Art Gallery, Bharat Kala Bhavan and Jantar Mantar.

Touristplacesinindia.com offers online information on tourist destinations in Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, and tourist places in other parts of India.

Kullu Manali

2012-01-09T07:04:00.001-08:00

kullu manali

Kullu is located at 240 kms from shimla,the capital of Himachal Pradesh. Kullu Manali is the most exotic hill station among the most favored tourist destinations among the hill stations of India. In the ancient times Kullu Manali was also known as “Kulanthpitha” which means the end of habitable world because the ancient Hindus regarded Kullu as the farthest limit of human habitation. Even in the epic of the Ramayana and mahabharta the original name of Kullu has been mentioned. Among this tourist complex of Kullu Manali, kullu is the central point and it is located on the bank of river Beas.This main river valley runs from North to South an it is only 80 km long and its width is not more than 2 km but still a fairly wide area is open to the visitors to enjoy the spectacle of beautiful mountain scenery. Kullu is also known as Valley of Gods as it has many temples. The Dashehra of Kullu is world famous. Kullu Manali is natural paradise with full of numerous tourist attractions in and around Kullu Manali.

Tourist attractions are abundant in and around Kullu Manali and some the tourist attractions in and around Kullu Manali are as follows:

Raghunathji Temple

This is the holiest temple of Kullu. It is dedicated to as its name suggest, to Lord Raghunathji that is Lord Ram. It is said that in 17th century then king of Kullu, Raja Jagat Singh committed a great wrong. After his sin to atone for his wrong doing he sent a courtier to Ayodhya to bring a statue of Lord Raghunath that is Lord Ram Then he built the temple for the diety to house the image and even today, is greatly revered. There is an image of Shri Raghunath in his chariot in the shrine.

The Bijli Mahadev Temple

This is the most striking temple in Kullu and is located at a distance of mere 10 km from the centre of Kullu Town. Lord Shiva is the main deity of this temple and this temple is dedicated o Lord Shiva. There is a 20 meter tall image or “Linga” projecting out of the shrine. It is said that it catches lightening in the skies and due to this Linga turns into pieces which is then restored by the temple priests with only butter and sattu. The legend says that this experience of lightening and reducing of Shivlinga into pieces is because Lord Shiva absorbs the lightening when it strikes the earth and thus the world is saved by the Lord. As this cycle of lightening and reducing of Linga into pieces and restoring of Shivalinga by the priests happens every year therefore the name of this temple is Bijli mahadev Temple. A panoramic view of Kulu and Parvati valleys can be seen from the temple. The temple has a 60 feet high staff which glistens like a silver needle in the sun.

Jagatsukh

6 Km South of Manali Jagatsukh is one of the biggest villages in Kullu district. Although the place is dotted with numerous old temples but one of the major attraction of Jagatsukh is an ancient Shiva temple. This Shiva temple is built in Shikhara style. Other tourist attractions of Jagatsukh include small shrine of Gaurishankar and the temple of Goddess Sandhyadevi which is chalet-roofed temple.

The Manali Sanctuary

This is a wildlife sanctuary which is located at the distance of 2 km from the main town of Manali. At this sanctuary a wide variety of animals and birds can be seen which includes many varied species of lions, leopards and ibex.

The Winter Carnival: In the month of January a five-day event is celebrated at Manali every year. This winter carnival is one of the most favored tourist attractions. Tourists from not only India but from all over the world come to attend and enjoy this winter carnival of Kullu. At this time of the year the whole city is covered with the thick blanket of snow. The winter carnival starts with the worship of Hidimba Devi and the celebration starts from the temple itself. A large amount of tourists come to Kullu Manali to be a part of the celebration.

VASHISHTHA BATHS

The hot water spring of Vashishtha is famous for its medicinal effect. A large number of people come here and take dips in to holy water as the water of the spring is believed to cure several diseases. There is also a pyramidal stone temple dedicated to Vashishta Muni.

TIBETAN MONASTERY

The Tibetan monastery is famous for its carpet-weaving unit where the residents, the immigrants from Tibet, produce handicrafts of various kinds that attract the tourists a lot.

ARJUN GUFA

It is Located at a distance of 15 km from the Manali town, near the Prini Village, According to a legend, Arjuna, one of the Pandavas, used to practice meditation here to get the powerful Pashupata Ashtra (apower ful weapon).

AGATSUKH

It is located at a distance of 6 km from Manali, Jagatsukh is the largest village of Kullu district. It is situated on the bank of the river Beas, The village has a famous temple of Lord Shiva. The temple is built in Shikhara style. Jagatsukh also functioned as the ancient capital of Kullu for about ten generations.

NEHRU KUND

It is located on the Manali-Keylong road at a distance of 6 km from Manali town The Kund is named after the first Prime Minister of India, Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru. The place is especially famous for the clean water spring, from the Brhigu Lake.

KOTHI

Kothi is at a distance of 12 km from Manali, on the Lahaul-Spiti-Leh highway.It served as the camping place for tourists when the 3,978-metre-high Rohtang Pass had to be trekked. It also has a comfortable staying option in the beautiful PWD Rest House, which lies in the middle of snow-capped peaks and glaciers.

SOLANG VALLEY

At a distance of 13 km from Manali town, Solang Valley is known for its beautiful landscape, snow-capped mountain peaks and the view of the glaciers. It also has skiing training facility, Department of Mountaineering and Allied Sports hostel, and ANTREK Campsite Resort.

REHALLA FALLS

At a distance of 16 km from Manali town, the Rehalla Falls is a result of spilling water from steep rocks and melting glaciers. at an altitude of 9,000 ft. it provides you an excellent view of the nature around. The entire area is surrounded by Deaodar and birch forests.

Tourism in Kullu is mainly concerned with temples and hot springs around the entire Kullu area. There are not only many famous temples like BijliMahadev temple, Jagannath Temple, Raghunathji Temple, Bajeshwar temple but along with these temples Manikaran and its hot spring is also very famous and attractive. There is also avery fine camping site at Kullu and that is Raison. Manali Tourist complex is world famous which offers many adventurous sports activities. Not only in summer but Manali is thrilling and shows a lavish display of natural beautyeven in winter. In fact Manali is one of the most key tourist attractions of Himachal Pradesh and it attracts tourists throughout the year.

Beautifull Manali

Fun in Lucknow

2012-01-08T23:18:00.001-08:00

Lucknow Tourist Attractions

2012-01-08T05:57:00.001-08:00

Lucknow Tourist Attractions

Lucknow is a beautiful city that still retains its old world charm. Your tour to Lucknow will be a truly memorable one when you travel in India. While arranging for Lucknow sightseeing tours, make sure that you visit the following tourist attractions that are worth seeing. The exquisite monuments that were built during the ancient times are still preserved for the present to see and cherish. So check out these tourist attractions as a part of Lucknow Tours.

The India Travel Destinations takes you on travel to the most romantic city Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh, India. It is a capital of Uttar Pradesh. Lucknow is the most important center of tourism in Uttar Pradesh, India and is famous all over the world for the lovely Hussainnabad Imambara.

Lucknow city is the one of the famous destinations of the World Tourism with three tradition monuments -Bara Imambara, Lucknow Zoo & Laxman Tila. Lucknow is an energetic centre of Culture, Art and Religious philosophies that have enriched mankind and shaped human thought over centuries. Lucknow is famous for handicrafts products such as silks, Leather work, Zari and Embroidery work. We provide information on tourist destinations in Lucknow Travel including the beautiful Lucknow Zoo. Lucknow tour is one of the most popular travel places amongst tourists. Lucknow Tourism has many other tourist places to provide for the tourists visiting Lucknow (India). A tour to Lucknow is lifetime knowledge to remember forever as the tourist destinations within and around the city go away the travelers captivated.
Lucknow is situated on the banks of the Gomti River. Lucknow is the cultural center of northern India where people are too polite and have their own charming culture and tradition. Lucknow is also famous for its, jewelry silks, perfumes and mouth-watering nawabi cuisines.
Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, is popularly known as the 'the city of Nawabs'. Lucknow city was founded by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula. In the past times, it provided as the capital of the nawabs of Awadh and it is one of the reasons why it is also called as the city of the Nawabs. Lucknow tourism gets one closer to the glorious day's city, through a visit to its several monuments and ruins. The capital city of Lucknow has a magical attraction surrounding it. The city of Lucknow leaves an everlasting impression on its visitors. Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, is one of the few places where one can still find people saying 'aap', 'janab', 'pehle aap', etc.
Some famous places are situated in Lucknow city like Hussainnabad Imambara, Bara Imambara, Laxman Tila, Rumi Darwaza, The Residency, Clock Tower and Chattar Manzil. Hussainnabad Imambara is also known as the Chhota, or Small Imambara. It was built by Mohammed Ali Shah in 1837 as his own mausoleum. Bara Imambara was built by Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784. The central hall of the Bara or Great Imambara, at 50m long and 15m high, is one of the largest vaulted galleries in the world. Laxman Tila is situated north of the Imambara complex which houses the Alamgir Mosque. It was built by Sultan Ali, the governor of Awadh during Aurangzeb's reign. Rumi Darwaza was built by Nawab Asaf-ud-daulah in 1784. It is a very big gateway situated west of the Bara Imambara. Clock Tower was built by Nawab Mohammed Ali Shah in 1881. It is situated near the Rumi Darwaza. Height of Clock Tower is a 221 feet.

Clock Tower

Between the Bara Imambara and Chhota Imambara is the Clock Tower of Lucknow. This huge tower was constructed by Nawab Nasir-ud-Din Haider in the year 1880. The Clock Tower in Lucknow reaches upto a staggering height of 221 feet and is the tallest Clock Tower in India. The Clock tower also has the biggest fitted clock that cost the government around Rs. 1.75 lakhs at that time.

Moti Mahal

The Moti Mahal in Lucknow is one of the most beautiful monuments of India. The Nawab of Lucknow, Saadat Ali Khan, constructed it. The Lucknow Moti Mahal is also known as Palace of Pearls. The Moti Mahal is located on the borders of Gomti and provides a spectacular view of the city of Nawabs. The Nawabs used this palace to view birds in flight and spend time in leisure. There are three buildings that comprise the whole construction.

The two other buildings are known as Shah Manzil and Mubarak Manzil. These two buildings were added later by Nawab Ghazi-ud-din Haider. These were used by the Nawab to watch animal combats and animal fights. The Moti Mahal is preserved till date by the concerned authorities and is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Lucknow.

Lakshmana

Tila It is said that the original site of the town was actually at Lakshmana Tila. The story goes back to ancient times when the brother of Lord Rama, Lakshmana laid the foundation of the city of modern Lucknow. It was known as Lakshmanpur then. This place is supposed to be one of the earliest sites of human settlements in Lucknow.

Hussainabad Imambara

The Hussainabad Imambara is a major tourist attraction of Lucknow. The monument was built by Mohammed Ali Shah in the year 1837. The tombs of Mohammed Ali Shah and his mother are located over here. The walls of the monument are decorated with Arabic verses that have been carved beautifully by efficient craftsmen. The structure has an imposing white colored dome and many pillars or minarets. The interiors of the monument are worth seeing. They have been decorated beautifully with elaborate chandeliers, mirrors with gold frames, the majestic throne of the King. There are small miniatures of the Taj Mahal on either side of the monument. The Hussainabad Imambara is beautifully decorated during the festival of Moharrum. The whole structure is bordered with thousands of little bulbs, which give it a royal look when illuminated in the evening.

Bara Imambara

The Bara Imambara was built in the year 1784 by the fourth Nawab of Awadh known as Asaf-ud-Daula. It was built as a part of a relief project for a major famine that took place in the year 1784. The Bara Imambara of Lucknow is one of the most famous monuments of this place. It is also called Asfi Imambara after the name of the Nawab of Lucknow who got it constructed. It is an important place of worship for the Muslims who come here every year to celebrate the religious festival of Muharram.

The Bara Imambara has a unique style of construction. The central hall of Bara Imambara is said to be the largest arched hall in the world. The hall measures 50 meters long and goes upto a height of 15 meters. What makes the construction unique is the fact that the blocks have been put together with interlocking system of bricks and there has been absolutely no use of girders and beams. The roof stands steady till date without any pillars to support it.

The Bara Imambara is known for its incredible maze called Bhulbhulaiya. This is located in the upper floor of the monument. A stairway leads to this level. One can view a scenic panorama of the city from the top of this monument, which is absolutely breath-taking. The Bhulbhulaiya is a must see and the best way to find your way out without getting lost is by hiring a guide. It is said that great treasures are hidden in the secret tunnels of this maze. The monument remains open from morning 6am to evening 5pm.

British Residency Lucknow

The British Residency of Lucknow is a famous historical landmark of this place. It is now in ruins and has been declared a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India. The British Residency was the place that served as a refuge for approximately 3000 British inhabitants during the time of the uprising of 1857. Lucknow was center of all British activities during the siege and the Residency became the monopolistic center of the British for almost 90 days.

The Residency still has within its walls, the graves of around 2000 British soldiers who died in the Revolt of 1857. The people of Lucknow tell intriguing stories of British who fled from their homes to seek shelter in these red buildings. Only a 1000 inhabitant survived this tough ordeal. On November 17th, the British troops led by Sir Colin Campbell defeated the Indian forces. Though they triumphed, it was victory in the true sense.

Today, the British Residency of Lucknow serves as a government office. The Residency also has a museum that is well-maintained by the authorities. One also finds the tombs Sadat Ali Khan, who was the first Nawab of Awadh, Kaisarbagh Palace and an observatory built for Colonel Wilcox, who was a British astronomer.

Chattar Manzil

One of the imposing structures built by the Nawabs of Lucknow, Chattar Manzil is a very famous tourist attraction of Lucknow. The most unique thing about the Chattar Manzil of Lucknow is the strikingly different architecture. The most prominent feature of this grand structure is the Umbrella-shaped dome from which it has derived its name. The construction also has some elements of the European architecture thus proving that it must have been pretty much influenced by the modern style of architecture of Europe.

The Nawab of Lucknow, Ghazi-ud-din Haider started the construction of the Chattar Manzil but he died in between. It was then completed by his son Nasir-ud-din Haider. The Chattar Manzil still retains its old world charm. Some say it was later remodeled by the British as per their tastes. Today, the Chattar Manzil has been remodeled to serve as an office for the Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI).

Jama Masjid Lucknow

In the year 1423, Sultan Ahmed Shah constructed the Jama Masjid in Lucknow. It is built entirely with yellow sandstone and is known for its intricate style of design and architecture. The Jama Masjid of Lucknow is known to be one of the most beautiful mosques of India. The Jama Masjid is also known by the name of Jami Masjid in Lucknow. The mosque is an important place of worship for the Muslims in Lucknow who collect here on all auspicious occasions.

The Jami Masjid is located in the heart of the city of Lucknow. The structure has a combination of Hindu and Muslim architecture. The structure stands upright on 260 pillars that support 15 arched domes that different elevations. The domes are intricately designed and ornamented and are no less than an architectural splendor. The pillars have carvings that have been inspired from Hindu and Jain culture.

The courtyard is a vast area that measures around 75 meters X 66 meters. The western chamber is a big hall that is supported by 260 pillars. The tomb of Sultan Ahmed Shah lies on the Eastern side entrance. It has been beautifully preserved by the concerned authorities. Thus, one can say that Jami Masjid of Lucknow is an architectural wonder in every sense of the word.

Rumi Darwaza

The Rumi Darwaza of Lucknow is one of the most impressive architectural structures in India. It was constructed in the year 1784 by Nawab Asaf-ud-daula. The Rumi Darwaza is an example of the fine architectural style of Awadh. The Rumi Darwaza of Lucknow is also known by the name of Turkish Gateway since it is supposed to be identical in design to a similar gateway in ancient Constantinople. Read more about Rumi Darwaza of Lucknow.

The Rumi Darwaza goes upto a staggering height of 60 feet. The uppermost part of Rumi Darwaza comprises of an octagonal Chatri (Umbrella) carved beautifully that can be accessed by a staircase. The word "Rumi" is derived from the modern day Rome that used to be Istanbul, the capital city of Eastern Roman Empire. The Rumi Darwaza is one of the finest gateways that has been built in Lucknow and is highly inspired by a similar gateway in Istanbul.

On top of the Rumi Darwaza was kept a huge lantern that would light up the structure at night making it look absolutely fabulous. Little jets of water would rush out of the sides of the arch from beautifully carved flower buds thus making it look like a gateway to Paradise. The beautifully carved flowers and designs speak volumes about the unique architectural style and eye for detail. The Rumi Darwaza is truly a splendor and must visit if you are traveling Lucknow.

Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary

The Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary is one of the major wildlife sanctuaries of Uttar Pradesh. This bird sanctuary can be visited as a part of excursions from Lucknow. The Nawabganj bird sanctuary in U.P. is spread over a small area of less than 3 square kilometers. The Nawabganj bird sanctuary is a major hub for migratory birds that visit this place during winter months. The best season to visit this sanctuary is from November to March, since this is the time when many species of migratory birds come here.

The main area of the sanctuary is around a shallow lake, which serves as the perfect place for migratory and water birds to dwell around for a while. The Government of India declared Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary a protected area in the year 1984. The sanctuary is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. The sanctuary also a Bird Interpretation Center, which gives knowledge about birds an their behavior in detail. From Lucknow, the sanctuary is located at a distance of around 35 kilometers.

The sanctuary has some very rare birds that come visiting during the migratory season. These birds come from as far as Europe and Siberia, traveling a distance of around 5000 kilometers every year. These birds include Graylag Goose, Pintail, Cotton teal, Red Crested Pochard, Gadwall, Shoveller, Coot and Mallard. Other residential and local birds include Spotwill, Sarus crane, Painted Stork, Peacock, White Ibis, Dabchick, Whistling teal, Open billed stork, White necked stork, Pheasant tailed jacana, Bronze winged Jacana, Purple moorhen, Lapwing, Tern vulture, Pigeon, King crow, Indian roller and Bee eater.

The Agra

2012-01-07T04:52:00.001-08:00

City of Taj Mahal - The Agra

Welcome to the city of the Taj Mahal, Agra. Located about 204 km south of Delhi in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, Agra is one of the most famous tourist destinations of India. The city, situated on the west bank of Yamuna River, is historical as it is ancient.

Agra has a rich historical background, which is amply evident from the numerous historical monuments in and around the city. Though the heritage of Agra city is linked with the Mughal dynasty, numerous other rulers also contributed to the rich past of this city. Agra was founded by Sikandar Lodhi (Lodhi dynasty; Delhi Sultanate) in the 16th century. Babur (founder of the Mughal dynasty) also stayed for sometime in Agra and introduced the concept of square Persian-styled gardens here. Emperor Akbar built the Agra Fort; Jahangir beautified it with palaces and gardens. Shahjahan marked the zenith of Mughal architecture, when he built the Taj Mahal. The post-Mughal era of Agra saw the rule of the Jats, Marathas and finally the British taking over the city.

Sightseeing Agra Travel

The main tourist attraction of Agra is the majestic Taj Mahal, a mausoleum in white by the banks of the River Yumana. Agra Fort is another tourist attraction of this historic city. The fort complex houses palaces, gardens and mosques within its large precincts. The Jami Masjid of Agra (Mosque) is an important tourist spot, as is Itmad-Ud-Daulah's Tomb, both of which are near the fort.

Agra Excursions

There are a number of important tourist spots and historical towns near the city of the Taj, Agra. One can visit Akbar's Tomb situated in the town of Sikandra, which is 4 km northwest of Agra. Forty km west of Agra lies Fatehpur Sikri, the perfectly preserved but deserted city of red sandstone built by Akbar. The Tomb of Saint Khwaja Salim Chisti is built within the Fatehpur Sikri complex. The ancient city of Mathura lies 47 km northwest of Agra. It is famous for its temples and is an important pilgrimage center in India, along with the town of Vrindavan, which is 10 km from Mathura.

Fairs & Festivals in Agra

Agra city is known for its Taj Mahotsav (Taj Festival). This cultural festival is held every year in the month of February. The Taj Mahotsav brings traditional Indian music and dance on a single platform for the tourist to relish.

Shopping in Agra

Apart from the magnificent monuments, a delightful shopping experience awaits tourists when they travel to Agra. The city of the Taj has both traditional and modern shopping areas. It is known for leather products, jewelry, rug weaving and marble work. The Sadar Bazaar area, and the area south of Taj Ganj, boasts of many emporiums and shops. Shilpgram or crafts village is located 1 km from the eastern side of the Taj Mahal, from where one can buy good quality craft items. Of special importance is the miniature marble replica of the Taj Mahal.

Travelling in Agra

One can travel to different parts of the city using different modes of transport like Taxi, tempo, auto-rickshaw and cycle rickshaw. Prepaid taxis and autos from the railway station are available. Prepaid transport is also available for excursions in and around the city limits. Bicycles can also be hired on hourly basis from different parts of the city.

Accommodation in Agra

Agra offers different categories of boarding and lodging facilities suited for every pocket. The Taj Ganj area near the Taj has a number of low-budget hotels and lodges. One can find such accommodation in the Sadar Bazaar area. Agra boasts of some of the best five-star hotels in India.

Places to Eat in Agra

Agra is known for its traditional Mughlai cuisine. A traveler can find a number of eating-places across the city, depending on his budget. One can choose from makeshift restaurants in the Taj Ganj area to the luxury hotels in Agra, which are famous for their Mughlai dishes. Agra is famous for its local specialty, the peitha, which is sweet candied pumpkin.

The story of the Black Taj Mahal

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The story of the Black Taj Mahal

Another interesting story associated with the mesmerizing Taj Mahal in Agra is about Taj Shahjahan's dream to build another Taj for himself, but this time in black. He intended to build the other Taj on the other side of Yamuna River and join them with a bridge, but unfortunately his dream could not be materialized.

There have always been some beliefs, legends and myths related to the famous historical monuments all over the world. And it is nothing surprising that most visited travel destination in India, the Taj Mahal in Agra, is engulfed with myths and legends.

Synonymous with India, the Taj Mahal is undoubtedly the epitome of India tourism. India travel is incomplete without experiencing the Taj Mahal. This supreme temple of love, standing gracefully by the sacred Yamuna in Agra, is not only a monument of wonder, but also of endless curiosity and legends.

And that strikes bright is the legend about Shahjahan intending to build one more Taj on the other side of Yamuna, but this time in black. It has been recorded by Tavernier - a French merchant, "Shahjahan began to build his own tomb on the other side of Yamuna but the war with his sons interrupted his plans and Aurangzeb who reigns at present is not disposed to complete it".

Later the historical guidebooks and gazetteers mention this story almost invariably. The irregular position of the cenotaph of Shahjahan as compared to that of Mumtaz Mahal, which occupies the exact centre of the hall, is said to be proof of this assumption. The Mehtab Burj and the wall adjoining it opposite the Taj Mahal are generally said to be the foundations and remains of the proposed plan.

Many scholars, however, believe that this is a myth and has no relation to truth. The traces, which are identified as the foundations of the second Taj, are actually the enclosing wall of a garden founded by Babur. The irregular position of Shah Jahan's cenotaph in comparison to Mumtaz Mahal's, is similar to that at the Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, and thus should not be of any striking significance. Besides, according to Islamic law, bodies are buried with their faces towards Mecca and legs towards the south, and the husband is placed on the right hand side of his wife. The interpretation that the cenotaph of Shah Jahan was not meant to be placed here appears to be superfluous.

The legend of the sinking Taj Mahal

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The legend of the sinking Taj Mahal

There have always been some beliefs, legends and myths related to the famous historical monuments all over the world. And it is nothing surprising that the magnificent Taj Mahal in Agra is engulfed with myths and legends. One that rises above all is the 'Story of the sinking Taj Mahal'. In spite of taking all possible care in constructing the Taj Mahal it was believed that it was sinking. Building Taj Mahal on the bank of Yamuna River in Agra proved to be its biggest disadvantage.

Beautiful Taj Mahal

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Beautiful Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal

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Taj Mahal

No word can justify the beauty of the Taj Mahal. A wonder of the world, the Taj Mahal in Agra is a monument which no other in the world can match its beauty and grandeur. Called the most beautiful temple in the world, the white marbled mausoleum at Agra has become the epitome of a man's love for a woman.

Synonymous with India, the Taj Mahal is undoubtedly the epitome of India tourism. India travel is incomplete without experiencing the Taj Mahal. This supreme temple of love, standing gracefully by the sacred Yamuna at Agra, is set amongst the serene ambience of a well laid out garden. The massive white marble structure was built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Shah Jahan was so disheartened by her death that the royal court went in mourning for two years and there was no music, no dancing, no celebrations and no feasting for two years. After such a long period when he recovered his consciousness Shah Jahan decided immortalize their love in the form of the Taj Mahal. He had selected the place for the Mahal Taj in Agra so that he could see it from his personal palace at Agra Fort.

Designed by the local Muslim architect Ustad Ahmad Lahori, the Taj Mahal is a reflection of the gardens of Paradise to which the faithful ascend. The entire complex, with gardens, gateway structures, and mosque, was completed in 1643. The mausoleum stands at one end of the garden adorned with fountains and marble pavements. The garden contains four water channels to echo the four rivers of the Islamic Paradise.

It is more than 350 years since Taj Mahal was built in Agra, but it has not lost its romantic aura, which attracts millions of visitors to India to experience it. It is because of this everlasting charm that the Taj Mahal in Agra can boast of being one of the most popular world heritage monuments on earth.

One of the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal in Agra is a monument which no other in the world can match its beauty and grandeur. More than 350 years have passed since Taj Mahal was built in Agra, but it has not lost its romantic aura, which attracts millions of visitors to India to experience it. Called the most beautiful temple in the world, this white marbled mausoleum of India has also been a subject of curiosity for many. With time many beliefs, myths and issues have been related to Taj Mahal in Agra.

Taj Mahal is regarded as one of the eight wonders of the world, and some Western historians have noted that its architectural beauty has never been surpassed. The Taj is the most beautiful monument built by the Mughals, the Muslim rulers of India. Taj Mahal is built entirely of white marble. Its stunning architectural beauty is beyond adequate description, particularly at dawn and sunset. The Taj seems to glow in the light of the full moon. On a foggy morning, the visitors experience the Taj as if suspended when viewed from across the Jamuna river.

Taj Mahal was built by a Muslim, Emperor Shah Jahan (died 1666 C.E.) in the memory of his dear wife and queen Mumtaz Mahal at Agra, India. It is an "elegy in marble" or some say an expression of a "dream." Taj Mahal (meaning Crown Palace) is a Mausoleum that houses the grave of queen Mumtaz Mahal at the lower chamber. The grave of Shah Jahan was added to it later. The queen’s real name was Arjumand Banu. In the tradition of the Mughals, important ladies of the royal family were given another name at their marriage or at some other significant event in their lives, and that new name was commonly used by the public. Shah Jahan's real name was Shahab-ud-din, and he was known as Prince Khurram before ascending to the throne in 1628.

Taj Mahal was constructed over a period of twenty-two years, employing twenty thousand workers. It was completed in 1648 C.E. at a cost of 32 Million Rupees. The construction documents show that its master architect was Ustad ‘Isa, the renowned Islamic architect of his time. The documents contain names of those employed and the inventory of construction materials and their origin. Expert craftsmen from Delhi, Qannauj, Lahore, and Multan were employed. In addition, many renowned Muslim craftsmen from Baghdad, Shiraz and Bukhara worked on many specialized tasks.

The Taj stands on a raised, square platform (186 x 186 feet) with its four corners truncated, forming an unequal octagon. The architectural design uses the interlocking arabesque concept, in which each element stands on its own and perfectly integrates with the main structure. It uses the principles of self-replicating geometry and a symmetry of architectural elements.

Its central dome is fifty-eight feet in diameter and rises to a height of 213 feet. It is flanked by four subsidiary domed chambers. The four graceful, slender minarets are 162.5 feet each. The entire mausoleum (inside as well as outside) is decorated with inlaid design of flowers and calligraphy using precious gems such as agate and jasper. The main archways, chiseled with passages from the Holy Qur’an and the bold scroll work of flowery pattern, give a captivating charm to its beauty. The central domed chamber and four adjoining chambers include many walls and panels of Islamic decoration.

The mausoleum is a part of a vast complex comprising of a main gateway, an elaborate garden, a mosque (to the left), a guest house (to the right), and several other palatial buildings. The Taj is at the farthest end of this complex, with the river Jamuna behind it. The large garden contains four reflecting pools dividing it at the center. Each of these four sections is further subdivided into four sections and then each into yet another four sections. Like the Taj, the garden elements serve like Arabesque, standing on their own and also constituting the whole.

Taj Mahal Architecture

The Mughals are famous for their architectural passion, which is evident from the numerous majestic monuments they built across India. But the one that strikes out is the magnificent Taj Mahal in Agra, built by the fifth Mughal Emperor Shahjahan. Taj Mahal not only marks the zenith of Mughal architecture but is also the culmination of tomb architecture, which began with the building of the mausoleum of emperor Humayun (the second Mughal emperor and the great grandfather of Shahjahan). Renowned for its architectural magnificence and aesthetic beauty, the Taj Mahal is synonymous with India and is undoubtedly the epitome of India tourism.

The structure of Taj Mahal adheres to the Islamic style (Mughal style) of architecture, which flourished in India during the medieval period. The Islamic style of architecture is also referred to as the Indo-Islamic style of architecture. This magnificent monument is set around a Charbagh or 'four garden' plan, which is split by watercourses - a reflection of the Persian style. The Taj Mahal itself is not set within the Charbagh but is located towards the far end of the enclosure near the bank of River Yamuna.

Taj Mahal is built on a high plinth, which has four tapering minarets at each corner. At the center of this plinth is an octagonal structure comprising of a central hall, with four smaller halls grouped around it. A central bulbous dome stands atop the roof of the Taj that is surrounded by four chhatris (domed canopy, supported by pillars, mainly seen in Hindu or local monuments and sometimes in Islamic buildings). The Taj Mahal is a two-storied structure, each having arched recesses with a highly decorated iwan in the middle. The tombs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shahjahan are actually located in the basement, while their replicas are placed directly above in the upper hall.

The Taj Mahal is entirely made of white marble and its pure white walls are decorated with exquisite pietra dura (stone inlay) work. It is said that different types of precious and semi-precious stones were used in the intricate inlay work done on Taj Mahal.

In spite of its massive proportions, Taj Mahal looks weightless and airy. Each section of this unique monument blends harmoniously with each other to create a perfect unit. Broadly, the Taj Mahal complex can be divided into distinct parts to understand its design and architecture. These are:

The Taj Gateway: Befitting the most beautiful symbol of love, the Taj Mahal, is the gateway to this great monument. Taj Mahal looks like a miniature on the landscape from a distance, but appears to grow as you start to approach it. But, the minute you would enter the open square before the main entrance, you will be surprised to find the Taj Mahal disappear from your sight. Actually, the Taj is hidden by the massive red sandstone gateway within this square. The massive Taj Gateway was completed in the year 1648 and stands 30 m high. The gateway is topped by small cupolas or chhatris. Symbolic of the divide between the material and the spiritual, the gateway is decorated in calligraphy with verses from holy Koran.

Charbagh - The Taj Garden: Leaving the entrance gateway you can see a sprawling garden in front of you, which goes all the way up to the plinth of the Taj Mahal. The beauty of the Taj Mahal is accentuated by the garden laid out in the Persian Charbagh (four garden plan) style. The entire area of the Taj complex is 580 m (1,902 ft) by300 m (984 ft), while the garden alone makes up an area of 300 m (984 ft) by 300 m (984 ft).

The Tomb: The tomb stands on its own marble plinth, which rests on a red sandstone platform. Four tall pillars, 138 ft each, rise up from the corners of the white marble plinth are topped with eight windowed cupolas. This has been made to replicate throne of God in paradise. Immediately below the dome is the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal which is centrally lined with the main entrance. Besides Mumtaz Mahal's tomb is the tomb of Shahjahan. The tomb of Shahjahan was not actually intended to be there but Aurangzeb placed it there thus breaking the symmetry.

Pietra Dura: The crypt and the cenotaphs at the Taj carry pietra dura decoration of a fabulous unexcelled elegance. As Percy Brown, the noted art historian observes, the Taj "resembles the spirited sweep of a brush rather than the slow laborious cutting of a chisel". As many as 35 different types of precious stones have been used on a single bloom-turquoise, jade, agate, coral, lapis Lazuli, onyx, bloodstone, cornelian, jasper, garnet and malachite used to fashion blooms of fuchsias, lily, honeysuckle, etc. The ninety-nine names of Allah have been used to decorate the eastern and western sides of Mumtaz's grave in the crypts. Today, much is left to the imagination of the visitors as most of the precious stones have been plundered or destroyed in the years when Taj Mahal fell into insignificance.