Must See India Blog

Most Scenic train Journeys in India

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 09 Jul 2014 04:58:00 +0000

Indian Railways which is the largest railway network in the world carrying 30 million passengers and joining 65,000 km, is not only known for its unique numbers but also for the diversity it offers to the tourists. Getting on a train is perhaps the easiest and most economical way to discover hidden cultures, unexplored regions and experience the country’s myriad offerings. There are numerous train journeys in India, which are already famous for uniqueness. Listed below are some of the lesser known yet exotic train journeys that you should not miss on your holidays in India.

Qazigund-Srinagar-Baramulla Route, Kashmir

Kashmir Traverse – The Kashmir railway has been a very challenging engineering project in India, due to the high altitudes and unfavourable terrains. The verdant beauty coupled with landscape sceneries make it one of the most exotic train holidays in India. The Jammu-Udhampur train route passed through 20 major tunnels and 158 bridges which offers eye pleasing scenic beauty to the tourists. The train route Qazigund-Srinagar-Baramulla is part of the greater Kashmir railways and promises the tourists with best of sceneries. During the winters the region is covered with snow thus increasing the beauty of these train journey multi-folds.

Kangra Valley Route, Himachal

Kangra Valley Stretch– Starting from Pathankot in Punjab till Jogindernagar in Himachal Pradesh, the Kangra valley railways is part of sub- Himalayan region and is the only unreserved operational train in this route. A laid back 165 km ride from Pathankot to Jogindernagar takes 10 hours and tourists are greeted with the best of natural splendors with the white peaks of Dhauladhar in the backdrop. It is among the list of tentative UNESCO world heritage site and one of the two railways that run in Himachal Pradesh.

Konkan Train Route, Maharashtra/Karnataka

Konkan Delight – The Konkan rain journey which takes the route Ratnagiri-Madgaon-Honnavar-Mangalore is a perfect route for any railway enthusiast planning a trip from Mumbai. Passing though charming greenery, numerous water bodies, striking curves and the Shayadri Mountains, this is truly a journey to remember. Running along the Konkan coast from Mumbai to Mangalore, it travels a total distance of 741 km. The hostile loose terrains with frequent landslide tendency make the Konkan train route one of the most difficult and ambitious engineering projects in the country.

Train Crossing Dudh Sagar Falls

Goan Voyage – While Goa holidays is famous all over the world for its beaches and water delight, very few know about the enchanting way that tourists can reach Goa. The blockbuster film ‘Chennai Express’, put this scenic train route on the spot. On this route tourists will travel through thick jungles, green villages and numerous waterfalls. Hop on the train from Vasco and travel on this route to see vast stretches of unexplored beaches and cross the might and exquisite waterfall, Dudh Sagar.

Dooars Odyssey – The experience of travelling on routes less explored is truly amazing. One of such route is the Siliguri-New mal-Hasimara-Alipurdua route which takes the tourists across the dense jungles, towering hills and numerous streams and waterfalls. The fascinating diversity of the route will take your breath away. Some of the places which tourists can sight on this route are – Mahananda wildlife sanctuary, Chapramari forest, Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary and Buxa tiger reserve. The Assam rail routes covering Guwahati-Lumdin-Silchar is another scenic trail journey in North East India.

Araku Valley Train Route, AP

Araku Express – If history and culture is your thing, then this is a not to be missed train journey in South India tours. A rare broad gauge hill railway in India, this train is the best way to travel to Araku Valley from Vishakhapatnam where the train slowly chugs tourists through numerous caves and waterfalls.

Chambal Saunter – The ravines of Chambal have much more to offer than the horrifying stories of dacoits, murder and robbery. Take the train from Agra to Gwalior that passes through this deserted terrain. A trip across Chambal is a delightful experience that will excite, enthral and entice you.

Koraput to Rayagada Route, Orissa

Orissa Tribal Tours– With downhill depths and horseshoe curves, the Orissa tribal route which is also known as KR line takes tourists from Koraput to Rayagada. The journey begins from Koraput which is at 800 mts above sea level and ends at Rayagada which is at just 200 mts and take the tourists through thick forests and undulating landscape.

Chilika Lake Tour– The Chilika Lake tour is a must indulge for those planning a holiday in Orissa. Tourists can take the morning train from Bhubaneshwar to Brahmapur to experience the grandiose of this lake. With the lake on one side and Eastern Ghats on the right, this journey will take your breath away.

Some of the other lesser known train journeys in India are - Shindavane and Ambale on Pune-Satar route, Gir safari on Junagarh-Delvada route, Aravalli on Himmatnagar – Udaipur or Mavli – Marwar route, Dhone and Cumbum on the Guntakal – Guntur route, Punalur to Sengottai on Kollam-Punalur-Sengottai route, the backwater tours on Ernakulam-Kollam-Trivandrum route and the sea bridge ride on Mandapam- Pamban- Rameswaram.

Enchanting Unknown Monsoon Destinations in India

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 30 May 2014 04:11:00 +0000

Breaking the mythical shackles that monsoon is not a good time holiday; we bring to your some of the most exotic and lesser known monsoon destinations in India that will take your breath away.

Cherrapunji, Shillong

Bundi – Whoever told you that Rajasthan is only a winter destination has not been to this beautiful region during the monsoon. Bundi is a small historical town around 200 km from Jaipur and during the monsoon the charm of the forts, palaces and step wells increases a lot. You can also extend you holiday by taking up Bharatpur tours to enjoy bird watching.

Panhala – Located in Kolhapur district and far from the glisten of the city lays this quaint hill station which is popular for its historical forts and invigorating ambiance. Just 20 km from Kolhapur, it can be conveniently visited by taking Maharashtra tour packages. Numerous caves, temples and more than 300 varieties of flowering plants can be enjoyed here.

Lansdowne, Uttaranchal

Lansdowne – Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Lansdowne is a charming unexplored destination in Uttaranchal. A popular place to holiday in monsoon, it is also a perfect place for a romantic honeymoon in Uttaranchal. The town is surrounded by thick pine and oak forest and the views of the Himalayas along with fresh and unpolluted ambiance during the monsoon, makes it one of the most ethereal places to holiday in India.

Kakkabe – If you thought that Kerala is the only place for a monsoon holiday feast, then do not miss a trip to Kakkabe. Located just 250 km from Bangalore, numerous packages from Bangalore to Kakkabe are available. A part of Coorg district, the monsoons brings out the best of natural beauty of this hill station. A trekker’s paradise, there are numerous heritage as well religious attractions available to keep the tourists engaged.


Kakkabe, Karnataka

Netarhat – Around 95 km from the Jharkhand’s capital Ranchi is Netrahat, which is a popular hill station famous for its crystalline rock formations. Covered with thick forest, the hill station is home to varieties of avian species. A few waterfalls along with spectacular sunrise and sunset views are the major attractions here.

Ranikhet – When dark cloud hover the skies, the greenery at Ranikhet blooms to it best. Monsoon is one of the most romantic times to visit Ranikhet and numerous honeymoon tours to Ranikhet are available. The proximity of Ranikhet from Nainital and Delhi makes it a cool choice for a quick holiday.

Dhanaulti – Very close to Dehradun, yet very far from the hustle and bustle of the city lays the picturesque hill station of Dhanaulti which a popular place to holiday in Uttaranchal. When the monsoon sets in and the air becomes cooler and crisper, Dhanaulti becomes the haven for those seeking natural bliss. Set within lush alpine forests of Pine, Deodar, Rhododendron and Oak trees, this is a perfect relaxing destination. Chakrata is another monsoon destination close to Dehradun.


Dhanaulti, Uttaranchal

Kumily – A part of Thekkady and situated on the border of Kerala and Thekkady, Kumily is magical during monsoons. If you are sucker for misty hills surrounded by thick jungles with animals in their natural habitat, then this is the place to be. Boating and trekking during monsoons in Kumily will be a wonderful experience on your Kerala holiday tours in Kumily.

Orchha, MP

Orrcha – When the splitter-spatter of rain urges you to hit the road and get one with nature, take a trip to Orchha. This temple town in Madhya Pradesh transforms itself into an uber cool destination during the monsoon making it ideal for adventure aficionados. The dry and dull scenery at the Orchha wildlife sanctuary suddenly becomes alive and chirping of birds reverberates through the air. Fishing, river rafting, canoeing, boating, trekking, camping and jungle trekking and hiking opportunities are available during monsoon.

Malshej Ghat, Maharashtra

Malshej Ghat – This rainy season think beyond Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar and head to Malshej ghat. A fascinating tourist destination with rejuvenating climate, lush greenery, cascading waterfall and endless opportunities for adventure and activities, Malshej Ghat is truly divine during the monsoon. You can reach Malshej Ghat by taking packages from Mumbai or Pune.

Top Secret Destinations in India

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 14 May 2014 04:20:00 +0000

Looking for a holiday beyond the contemporary and want to explore the destinations which have managed to remain camouflaged from the travel spotlight? Take a look at some of the top secret destination and enjoy a ‘never before’ holiday experience in India.

Simlipal National Park

Simlipal – The national park of Simlipal in Orissa is one of the lesser known attractions but offer plentiful things to astound the tourists. An elephant reserve and previous hunting ground for the royal family, today Simlipal offers great opportunities of trekking and jungle safari. The park serves home to 99 royal Bengal tigers and 432 wild elephants along with numerous varieties of fauna and flora. The best time to visit is from 1 October to 15 June. You can reach Simlipal by taking a trip to Bhubaneshwarwhich is 300 km away.

Kaas Plateau – Most of you have seen or even heard of the enchanting Valley of flowers in Uttaranchal, but have you heard of Maharashtra’s ‘Valley of Flower’? Take up Maharashtra tour packages to visit Kaas Plateau around 22 km from Satara. Also known as ‘Kaas Pathar’, it has been declared as Biodiversity World Heritage Site by The UNESCO and is surrounded by dense forest. The place has more than 850 different species of flowers and during the month of August and September colourful flowers blanket the whole region, giving a visual treat to the onlookers.

Kaas Plateau

Dholavira – If are a history buff then you cannot afford to miss a visit to Dholavira. An archaeological site in Kutch district in Gujarat and contains ruins of the historical Indus valley civilization and is one of the five largest Harappan sites. The town is 278 km the capital of Gujarat, Ahmedabad, and you can enjoy a trip to Dholavira on your holidays in Ahmedabad.

Udaygiri & Khandagiri Caves – Another hidden gem in Orissa, the Udaygiri and Khandagiri caves near Bhubaneshwar are part natural and part artificial caves of archaeological, historical and religious importance. Located on the hills of the same name, the Udaygiri hill has 18 caves while Khandagiri cave has 15 caves that tourists can explore. These caves are best visited from the months of October to March and are just 7.5 km from Bhubaneshwar.

Horsley Hills – A small hill station in the state of Andhra Pradesh, Horsley hill is just 160 km from Bangalore, which makes it a popular choice for those planning a weekend trip from Bangalore. Since it is a small place there is not much to do but enjoy the panorama. A wildlife sanctuary and a temple are a few things tourists can explore here. The road to the hills is very narrow with beautiful surroundings and a trip to Horsley hills is perfect for those planning a quick getaway to relieve their minds and senses.

Horsley Hills

Majuli – An outlandish island in the delta of Brahmaputra River in Assam, Majuli is a heavenly delight for those looking for exoticism of nature. Considered as one of the largest fresh water islands in South East Asia and among the biggest river islands in the world, Majuli is accessible only by taking boat rides. The scenic beauty is spectacular and awe-inspiring and it is a must visit place for those planning a holiday in North East India.

Majauli

Tarkali beach – Another delight of Maharashtra, Tarkali beach is an isolated beach in the Sindhudurg district. The beach is approximately 100 km from Goa and can be easily visited on your Goa vacations. Beside the numerous forts, temples and heritage attractions, here adventure options like snorkelling, scuba diving, boating and water rafting can also be enjoyed.

Tarkali Beach

Lepchajagat – A small forest village, Lepchajagat is just 13 km from Darjeeling but still has not been explored much. Surrounded by hilly forests of rhododendron, pine and oak the village can be explored on your trip to Darjeeling. Numerous forest bungalows run by the West Bengal government are available for those planning an overnight stay.

Magnetic Hill – The ‘gravity hill’ which is also known as magnetic hill is a unique attraction that you can enjoy on your trip to Leh. The hill is located on the Leh-Kargil-Srinagar national highway, about 50 km from Leh, at a height of 11,000 feet above sea level. The optical effect which is caused by the layout of hills creates an illusion where in a person sees the object to be moving uphill, thus rendering it the name - 'Magnetic hill'.

Malana

Malana – An ancient village in Himachal Pradesh, Malana is a solitary village in the Parvati valley. It is one of the oldest democracies in the world and the local follow strict customs and cultures. The natives believe that Malana was founded by remnants of Alexander the Great's Army. You can visit this village by taking holidays in Manali, which is just 77 km from Malana.

What's next on your Summer travel list?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 16 Apr 2014 12:44:00 +0000

The summer is at its peak and it’s the perfect time for a holiday! So what plans have you made for your travel this season? Want to spend a lazy holidays with a chilling beer on the beaches or meander your way atop the summer hill stations. What is your pick? Mentioned below are the perfect beach destinations and hill stations which will help you decide which place you should head to this summer!

Beaches – If you are looking for a beach vacation, then think beyond a trip to Goa. The long coastline of India offers plentiful options of beaches where tourists can enjoy a relaxing vacation. Some of the most popular beach destinations in Karnataka are – Gokarna, Mangalore, Murdeshwara, Karwar, Surathkal and Udupi. All these beaches are popular for their white sand beaches and offer peaceful ambiance to the tourists.

Gujarat

You can take Pondicherry tour packages to visit the beaches in Pondicherry along with enjoying a wonderful cultural holiday. The beaches of Tamil Nadu – Kanyakumari, Madurai, Rameswaram and Mahabalipuram are perfect beach destination for tourists inclined towards religion. In Kerala Kovalam, Varkala, Chowara, Chavakkad, Nattika, Cherai, Kizhunna and Poovar are the most popular beach destinations. If you are in East India, then take a holiday in Orissato visit Gopalpur, Chandrabhaga and Pradip.

Almora, Uttaranchal

Hill Stations – If you are planning a vacation in the hill stations of India, then the options are endless. Starting from the Himalayan hill stations to the green hill tops in South India, from the cascading mountains in the west to the winding hill destinations in North East, the list is inexhaustible. Go for a long Himachal Pradesh holidays or take quick holidays to Matheran. Ooty, Kodaikanal, Chikmagalur, Yercaud, Coorg, Munnar and Wayanad are among the major hill station tourists can plan a visit this summer.

Ugadi – Welcoming the New Year

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 26 Mar 2014 05:25:00 +0000

The festival of Ugadi marks the commencement of the New Year for the people of Deccan region of India. However, many regions in the country celebrate this day as their new year as well, albeit with different names. While in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, people call it as Ugadi or Yugadi, the people of Maharashtra celebrate it as Gudi Padwa. The Marwari people of Rajasthan celebrate call it as Thapna while the Sindhi celebrate this day as their New Year day, Cheti Chand. Sajibu nongma panba in Manipur and Baisakhi in Punjab are observed on the same day.

The Etymology & Observance

The word, Ugadi has been derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Yuga’ and ‘adi’ which means ‘the beginning of a new age’. The festival usually falls during the month of March-April every year and is celebrated with great fanfare in Karnataka, Maharashtra, Goa, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

The Celebration

Celebrations of the Ugadi festival begin weeks before the main event. Houses are cleaned and shopping for new clothes and items related to the festival are done in advance. On the day of Ugadi, people get up at dawn to take bath and the whole house is decorated with mango leaves. As per the legend, Karthik encouraged people to tie green mango leaves to the doorway as it signifies a good crop and general well-being.

The main event of the day is the ‘Ugadi Pachhadi’, which is a symbolic meal consisting of a dish with six different components. The ingredients of this preparation are of different tastes but when mixed in definite proportions, they find perfect harmony resulting in a delicious dish.

Jaggery is sweet and represents happiness in life. Saltsignifies taste while the bitter Neemflowers represent unhappy moments in life. The sourness of Tamarind is the representative of sad moments of life while the hot Chilli powder suggests angry moments. The tangy Raw Mango pieces added in the dish are suggestive of the element of surprise in our lives. These different tastes represent six faces of life that should be handled by and balanced in such a way as to make one’s life on earth, a beautiful and complete experience.

In Andhra Pradesh, a special dish called Bhakshyalu or Puran Poli is prepared. The people of Karnataka make Holige which is gram and jaggery filling stuffed in flat bread and eaten with ghee or milk. People also gather to read the religious Panchagam of the year in congregation. It is a customary practice to attend the temple in the evening of this day where a Siddhanthi (Pandit) recites Panchanga Sravanam.

Other Customs

This is beginning of the mango season and since raw mangoes are available in abundance and people make lot of pickles to last a year. Kavi Sammelanam, which is a literary feast, too is held across many cities in Andhra Pradesh.

Top Tips on Keeping Your Children Calm on a Holiday Trip

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 20 Mar 2014 06:49:00 +0000

The Universal Approach of Bribe – In the world of parenting, bribing is a controversial but popular child control method. The best time to practice appropriate bribery is on a road or air-plane trip. The trick is to offer the bribe before any bad behaviour starts. This will keep the kids motivated to follow your instructions during the trip.

Planning and Direction – Plan the nap time of your child during the journey to make sure they sleep for most part of the trip. In case of older children, establish rules as to how quiet and calm they must keep. Also carry their toys to keep them engaged. Also when choosing your holiday destination, make sure you pick a place which has lot of open space and kid-friendly activities.

Appreciation and Punishment – Make sure you compliment your kid time and again to make him or her fell how good they are doing. A simple “wow, thank you for being so quiet” or “I am so happy with your behaviour’, will drive them to behave in order to be praised. In case, they are not listening to you then use small consequences like 2 minute time out or anything you feel is appropriate. The idea is to be firm and not mean.

Keeping the Kids Engaged– Kids are store house of energy and it very difficult to keep them seated in a place for long. Carry your kid’s favourite toys or any hand held device which will keep them busy. Make a list of low-noise games you can play on the plane or in the car. You can also offer new toys to your kids as new and unseen toys will keep them silently fascinated.

Involve Yourself – Rather than giving them deadly stares or the silence treatment, involve yourself in your child’s activity. You can read or sing along with them to keep them engaged. Also rotate your child care duties with your spouse before you run out of your batteries.

Holi – Spreading the Colors of Love

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Mar 2014 11:54:00 +0000

Holi marks the onset of the spring season in India. Held in the month of March, it is the most colorful festival of the country and definitely one of the most popular. Holi is a traditional ancient Hindu festival which has become popular even among the non-Hindu communities. The festival has, in recent times, spread in parts of Europe and North Americas as a spring celebration of love, frolic and colors. Holi is celebrated at the approach of vernal equinox, on the Phalguna Purnima (Full Moon).

Religious Significance

The festival of Holi has numerous legends and mythological stories associated with its celebrations. The cultural rites of holi have been mentioned in the Puranas, Dasakumara Charita and by the famous India poet Kalidasa during the 4th century reign of Chandragupta II. The festival is signified by the legend of Holika. It is said that Holika (a demon), the sister of King Hiranyakashipu and aunt of Prahlad was burnt to death with help of Lord Vishnu, in order to save Prahlad. Her death marked the victory of good over evil and thus the celebration of Holi came into existence.

Other significance

Beside the religious angle, there are numerous other reasons which can be attributed for the celebration of Holi across the country. In many culture, Holi marks the beginning of the spring season, the festive day to end and rid oneself of past errors, end conflicts by meeting others.

Rituals

There are several cultural rituals associated with Holi. Celebrations begin many days before the festival, with people gathering wood and combustible materials for the bonfire in parks, community centers, near temples and other open spaces. On the night before the holi, an effigy signifying ‘Holika’ is put atop the pyre and burnt. Inside the homes, food, party drinks and festive seasonal foods such as gujiya, mathri, malpuas and other regional delicacies are savoured. The most enjoyable part of the festival is playing with colors which begin in the morning after the Holika bonfire and enjoying the traditional drink, ‘bhang’.

Celebrations of Holi across India

Holi is celebrated all over India with great pomp and show. It will not be an understatement to say that the whole country gets drenched in the color and revelry of this festival. If you want to enjoy the true essence of Holi then take up packages of Mathura Vrindavan, which is famous for its traditional festivities. Here the celebrations begin 40 day prior and dancers from various parts of India put on shows depicting Krishna's flirtations with the village maidens. Folk music and 5 day celebration held in the famous Shri Banke Bihari Temple here is legendary. The ‘Lath Mar Holi’ celebrated in the town of Barsana, near Mathura is a unique local celebration.

To enjoy loud and extravagant holi celebration, go to Mumbai, where high profile parties are arranged. Due to the presence of many Bollywood celebrities, extravagant private parties are organized to play holi. Similar is the case in Delhi where frenzy of music, colour and madness coupled with bhang lassi, street food, and sprinklers can be enjoyed.

Elephant Festival at Jaipur

If you happen to be on a trip to Jaipur, during the time of Holi, then do not miss the Elephant festival which takes place at Jaipur's Chaugan Stadium from 4 pm until 7 pm. Elephant parades, elephant beauty contests, folk dances and tug-of-war between elephants are some of the main events at the festival. Tourists in Rajasthan can also go to Banaswara to enjoy the tribal way of celebrating Holi. Local villagers dressed in traditional attire and carrying a sword is a common sight. If you want to enjoy the traditional Gair dance, then this is the best time to go.

The unique tradition of celebrating Holi in Shantiniketan in West Bengal can be attributed to the famous noble laureate, Rabindranath Tagore. Annual events where students dress up in spring colors and perform cultural programs are conducted here and everyone, including the foreigners is allowed to participate. Purulia is another town in West Bengal where holi is celebrated in folk style. Along with folk dances like Chau dance, Darbari Jhumur, Natua dance, and songs of West Bengal's wandering Baul musician, tent accommodation with portable toilet is available for the tourists. Purulia is a small town which can be easily reached by taking up packages from Kolkata.

Each region and state has their own unique way of celebrating Holi and no matter where you are, the colors, festivities and joy of Holi will not leave you untouched.

Top 4 reasons to Visit Ooty during 29th - 31st March

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Mar 2014 07:06:00 +0000

Its Holiday Time! South India is celebrating Ugadi on Monday, 31^st March, making it a long weekend. So you can enjoy a 3 day Ooty holiday without taking a leave!

In March, the climate of Ooty will be cool yet comfortable, ideal for experiencing the town's leisure activities like hang gliding, angling and trekking.

Since the spring season has begun, the Nilgiri hills come alive during this time. The natural panorama will be at its best with pleasant sunny weather, shimmering lakes and blooming gardens, making it the best time to book Ooty honeymoon packages.

Ooty Toy Train

March is the beginning of the exam season around the country, therefore the crowd will be lesser as compared to the rush during April-May and you can get the best hotels at comparatively lesser price.

Weekend Trip to Kanyakumari

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 25 Feb 2014 06:29:00 +0000

Kanyakumari, the beautiful sea side town in Tamil Nadu, is a popular weekend destination from Bangalore or Chennai. An exotic tourist destination, Kanyakumari is also known as Cape Comorin and marks the southernmost point of India. At Kanyakumari, tourists can enjoy the rare sight of the confluence of three water bodies – Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean.

How to Reach

Kanyakumari is 690 km from Bangalore and around 711 km from Chennai. Tourists are advised to take a bus to reach the town as driving on one’s own can be pretty tiring. Regular bus services are available from Bangalore as well as Chennai and it takes approximately 11 hours to reach Kanyakumari.

What to See

The town of Kanyakumari is blessed with some of the most exotic natural as well as religious attractions.

Thiruvallur Statue

Thiruvallur Statue– This is the most important landmark in Kanyakumari. Standing at a height of 113 ft, it weight almost 7000 tons and is the result of the effort of 500 craftsmen who were a part of its construction. It is located on a small island very close to Kanyakumari.

Vivekananda Rock Memorial – The Vivekananda memorial is a small island around 500mt from Kanyakumari. The place has been named after the famous philosopher, Swami Vivekananda, who meditated on these rocks in order to seek enlightenment. The merger of the three water bodies, Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal can be seen from here. This attraction is open for public all days of the week from 7 am till 4 pm.

Gandhi Madapam – A special temple in Kanyakumari, the Gandhi Mandapam is located near the famous Anna University. Built to commemorate the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, the mandapam is built at the exact place where his ashes were kept for public darshan before immersion in the sea on February 12, 1948. It is open from 7am till 7pm daily.

Kumari Ammam Temple– The most famous temple in Kanyakumari, Kumari Ammam temple, is beautifully located overlooking the beach. This temple is dedicated to Virgin Goddess Kanyakumari and is more than 3000 years old.

Kumari Ammam Temple

Besides the above mentioned attractions there are numerous places to visit on your trip to Kanyakumari. If you are here on a pilgrim tour do not miss visiting Lord Subramanya temple, Suchindram and Thirunandhikarai Cave temple. For those looking for a leisure vacation, head to the various beaches - Kanyakumari beach, Sanguthurai beach, Sothavilai beach and Thengapattinam beach. Courtallam falls, Olakaruvi falls and Thiruparrapu falls are popular places where tourists can enjoy picnicking. If you are history buff then plan a visit to the Padmanabhuram palace, Sitharal Jain monuments, Udaygiri fort and Vattakottai fort. Baywatch and wax museum are among other attractions tourists can explore on their holidays in Kanyakumari.

Where to Eat

There are numerous eating places in Kanyakumari suitable for both vegetarian as well as non vegetarians. Saravana is pure vegetarian restaurants located in Hotel Saravana and offer South as well as North India delicacies. Hotel Sea view on East Cart Street is a top end hotel serving varieties of veg and non veg multi cuisine options. Another good place to enjoy awesome sea food is Sangam restaurant at Main Road in Kanyakumari. If you are looking for Chinese options, head to Hotel Annapoorna on Sannidhi Street. Hotel Triveni on the Main Road is famous for its quality food at reasonable rate.

Where to Shop

While in Kanyakumari tourists should not miss shopping for the various handicrafts which are unique to this region. Antiques, sea shell artifacts and electronic good constitute major buys in Kanyakumari. The beach side of Kanyakumari has numerous small shops and costermongers selling varieties of trinkets and other stuff at very reasonable price. The street markets in Kanyakumari are the major shopping destination where tourists can find almost everything under the sun. The small shops outside the Kumari Ammam temple are a good place to buy god figurines and idols along with religious stuff.

Kanyakumari is close to the pilgrim destinations of Rameswaram and Madurai and tourists can also include a trip to these destinations when holidaying in Kanyakumari. Do not wait anymore, book your packages to Kanyakumari to enjoy a nonpareil holiday in South India.

Browse for various exciting Kanyakumari tour packages at Mustseeindia.com which offers numerous deals and discounts on holiday packages. All the tour packagesoffered at Mustseeindia.com are customizable and can be altered as per the requirement of the tourists.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 06 Feb 2014 05:56:00 +0000

Goa Carnival from 9^th to 12^th Feb 2014 – Are you There Yet

Street Procession During Carnival

One of the most exciting festivals in Goa, the Goa Carnival, is scheduled to be held from the 9^th till the 12^th of February 2014. Other than Christmas and New Year, this is the best time to take up Goa tour packages and enjoy the great Goa tourism in India.

Goa Tourism

Goa is the most vibrant state in India boasting of long stretches of palm fringed beaches. It is the most popular tourism places in India and a must visit place for both domestic as well as international travelers. Divided roughly in two regions – North and South Goa, the state offers water sports, heritage attractions and holy churches as its main attractions. The cities in Goa are very charming and are worth exploring on your Goa holiday tours.

Carnival at Goa

The whole of Goa is prepping up for this exciting holiday season. Tourists specifically book Goa tourism India packages during this time to explore the best of Goa culture. During the days as well as night festive zest can be seen on the streets which come alive with colors, music, dance, processions and floats. This festival was once celebrated only by the local population but of recent, it has become a global rage with a lot of people even planning their honeymoon in Goaduring this time.

Floats During Carnival

What to Enjoy During Goa Carnival

The carnival in Goa is not only confined to music and dance but this is also a great time to enjoy lip smacking food that is served on the beach shacks and various restaurants. Tourists in India, who have come specially for the Goa Carnival festival can enjoy visiting the various flea markets as well. The awesome Goa carnival parade which is held is spectacle to watch. The famous red-and-black dance held at Clube Nacional is a not to be missed event.

There are numerous tourism places in India which tourists can explore while on their holidays in Goa. This year plan a wonderful holiday by booking Goa packages during the time of the Carnival festival and enjoy a great holiday.

Top Destinations to Visit in January

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 17 Jan 2014 10:34:00 +0000

January, the first month of the New Year is also one of the best time to holiday in most part of the country. While the Northern most part of India is shrouded with snow, the southern part of India is cozy and comfortable with mild winters. While honeymoon couples go to the Himalayan hill stations to enjoy snowfall, there are numerous destinations which are perfectly suited for those planning their holidays in India for leisure. Find below the best cities and regions to explore in the month of January.

Shimla

Himachal Hill Stations – Be it Srinagar, Shimla or Manali, most of the Himalayan hill stations are covered with snow during this month and hence attract honeymooners. There is nothing much to do except enjoying with your spouse and indulging in winter sports. All these hill stations are part of North India tour packages and are perfect for those looking for a romantic getaway.

Rajasthan

Rajasthan – The state of Rajasthan is should be visited during this month as the weather is at its best. Rajasthan is one of those destinations which are visited only during the months from October to March as during the rest of the year, extremely hot weather prevails in the state. Therefore enjoy the best of Rajasthan by booking Rajasthan holiday packages in January.

Tamil Nadu – Boasting of the eternally famous holiday destinations like Ooty, Coonoor, Kodaikanal and holy destinations like Madurai, Rameswaram and Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu is indeed a great place to holiday in South India. In the month of January, the weather becomes comfortable and enjoyable. The hill stations are comparatively much colder than the plains, but they are totally worth visiting.

Kerala

Kerala – Though Kerala is termed as an all-year destination, but January brings out the best of the state. Take a trip to Munnar or enjoy a houseboat holiday in Alleppey, the charm of the state is nonpareil. January is also a good time to take up exclusive tours to the Eravikulam National Park before it closes due to the calving season from the 1^stfor February.

Others – Goa is among the most popular destinations that tourists can visit in January. The New Year festivities continue till the end of this month. The cities in North East India too are great places to be at during this month. You can take a trip to Darjeeling or enjoy the best of nature by booking Sikkim holiday trip. Jim Corbett National Park and Nainital in Uttaranchal are among the most popular holiday destination tourists should explore during this month.

Featured Bloggers -

Manav Lalotra is a passionate blogger who reviewed Mustseeindia.com and in the review he talks about why he will recommend Mustseeindia to his friends and avid travelers. Read the review here.

Thoughts of the Lost is an avid bloggers who reviewed Mustseeindia.com two weeks ago and shares his insight here.

Theoff.infois a famous travel blog. In their own words, “we focus on adventure travel and tourism, with special reference to the Himalayas”. They reviewed mustseeindia.com recently and their review is worth reading. Read the review.

Getaheadindia.comis an informative blog which helps reader learn more about their hard earned money and know how to take care of your money for better return. They also reviewed Mustseeindia.com which you can read here.

If you would like to be part of Featured Bloggers, please email us on marketing@mustseeindia.com.

Exploring Ooty – Beyond the Contemporary

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 06 Dec 2013 12:26:00 +0000

Ooty is one of the most celebrated names in the tourism industry. Located in Tamil Nadu, its proximity to the major cities like Chennai and Bangalore makes it an ideal place to visit even for a short duration. A lot has been explored and much has been said about the facets that makes Ooty a desirable destination. Let us shift the paradigm from the regular ‘what to see and do in Ooty’ and focus on ‘unique places and unexplored attractions in Ooty’ which you can visit on your next trip to Ooty.

Avalanche Valley

Avalanche Valley– This is one of the less frequented yet one of the most charming attractions in Ooty. Located around 28 km from Ooty, the valley is filled Shola trees, rhododendrons, orchids, magnolias and a trout stream, not to miss the unending natural beauty. What was once an adventurer’s delight has now become a favorite hot spot for those planning their honeymoon in Ooty. The valley is open for public from 10 am till 5 pm. Please note that vehicles are allowed only till a certain point and from there one needs to take the government vehicles in order to explore the forests. Vehicle tour begins at 11 am and last vehicles leaves at 3 pm.

Upper Bhavani

Upper Bhavani – When the roads turn rough, weather starts to change every 10 minutes and mists gets denser, you are about the reach the very less explored Upper Bhavani. This attraction is 38 km from Ooty and takes approximately 1½ hours to reach. What greets the eyes is worth all the effort and risk one undertakes to reach the place. With the endless stretch of water, gurgling streams and captivating mist, the place is beyond words and renders its onlookers, speechless. Do not miss exploring this place on your Ooty tour packages in Tamil Nadu. Western catchment, Porthimund Lake and small isles are among the attractions you can explore around Upper Bhavani.

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake – Emerald Lake is a part of the Silent Valley and is enroute to the Avalanche valley from Ooty. Shaped like the number ‘8’, the lake is all about scenic beauty. This popular picnic spot is around 25 km from the Ooty town and is beautifully surrounded by tea plantation. If you want to holiday away from the buzzing Ooty town, then a resort located close to the lake, is the answer to your prayers. Mountain biking, bird watching, fishing and trekking are among the popular activities tourists can enjoy on their Emerald lake tours in South India.

Ooty is well connected to most parts of South India and for those travelling to the town, the fairy tale ‘toy train ride’ from Mettupalayam to Ooty or from Ooty to Coonoor and back is a ‘not to be missed’ indulgence. If you are in Ooty for a couple of days then you can also include a trip to Bandipur National Park or Mudumalai National Park as both of these wildlife destinations are extremely popular and are at a close distance from Ooty.

Top Places to Visit this Winter

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 28 Nov 2013 12:20:00 +0000

Winter in India begins in October and this season also marks the beginning of the tourist season for most of the states. Mentioned below are some of the most popular winter destinations tourists should not miss on their holiday in India.

Rajasthan– The state of Rajasthan is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world, but due to the extreme weather conditions during most part of the year, winter is the best time to take up Rajasthan tour packages. The month from October to February is the best time not only to explore the state but is also a good time to indulge in desert safari and numerous activities. Jaipur, Jaisalamer, Udaipur and Jodhpur are great places to visit in Rajasthan.

Jaipur, Rajasthan

Jammu and Kashmir – Though winter might have been categorized as not the best time to visit Kashmir, but there is one destination in Kashmir which is thronged by the tourists during the chilly winter months as well. Plan a trip to Gulmargduring these months when the mountains slopes are shrouded with snow making it an exceptionally popular place to enjoy this winter sport. Winter is the time the snow reigns the region making it the best time for skiing aficionados.

Gulmarg, Kashmir

Uttaranchal – Talking about skiing, another place which too is very popular for its ski resort is Auli in Uttaranchal. Auli has been blessed with some of the most beautiful skiing slopes which make it a chosen destination for numerous skiing events. When on your Auli skiing tours in Uttaranchal, tourists should only limit their stay in the ski resort, but also extend their holidays to Nainital and Corbett, which too are popular places to spend chilly winter holidays.

Uttaranchal

Shimla and Manali – The state of Himachal Pradesh, especially the hill stations – Shimla and Manali are popular choice for honeymoon during the winter season. Couples book exclusive Himachal honeymoon tours during the month of December and January to enjoy the snowfall.

Shimla

Goa – This is where the action happens! Goa is one of the few destinations in India which is extremely famous for its Christmas and New Year celebrations. It is evident by the fact that the prices of hotels skyrockets during this time. Winter is a very good time to indulge in the various water sports in Goa as well. The weather is not very cold and the parties and nightlife set the temperature soaring. So book your Goa holiday toursduring the winter months for an exciting and enchanting holiday.

Goa

South India – While the whole of North India is ruled by the chilling winds and snow, the climate of South India during this season is more or less pleasant, making it ideal for tourists to book South India tours. Visit Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu for an exotic holiday experience. Please note that the hill stations in the respective states will be very cold and you need to carry woolens as well.

Munnar, Kerala

This winter, do not remain confined to your home. Layer yourself up and hit the roads to enjoy the best of this beautiful season.

The Mystic Highlands of Karnataka

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 11 Nov 2013 05:09:00 +0000

Karnataka, a popular state in South India is an extremely popular holiday as well as honeymoon destination. Blessed with high mountain terrains which foster some of the most quixotic hill station, the highlands of Karnataka are truly mystical making them irresistible options when planning holidays in Karnataka. Below are some of the most popular and celebrated hill destinations in Karnataka which should not be missed on your holiday in South India.

· Coorg– Coorg is among the most popular holiday destination in Karnataka and large number of tourists book Coorg tour packagesto visit and experience the best of nature. Often sobriquet as ‘Scotland of India’, Coorg has all the facets that make it a popular place to enjoy a relaxing holiday. Sprawling coffee estates, lush greenery, breath taking views and endless panorama are some of the most fascinating draws of Karnataka. A visit to Bylekuppe, which is a famous Tibetan settlement camp here is the prime attraction. Numerous waterfalls, sightseeing points, adventure activities and a day trip to Dubare elephant camp are numerous opportunities to make your holiday a splendid experience.

· Chikmagalur– Another celebrated name in the list of Karnataka hill stations is Chikmagalur. Located on the hills of Babu Budan giri, Chikmagalur is all about peace and tranquility. Tourists can enjoy a great holiday or honeymoon trip to Chikmagalur to explore the true beauty of the region. Chikmagalur is very close to Bangalore and numerous customizable Chikmagalur tour packages are available for an extra ordinary holiday in Chikmagalur.

Kemmanagundi– One of the most popular names for all those looking for a holiday in Karnataka is Chikmagalur, which is a famous place for enjoying honeymoon in Karnataka as well. The hill station is a haven for those interested in nature and adventure. Hebbe falls, Kalhatti falls, rock garden and trekking are some of the popular attractions as well as activities that tourists can enjoy here.

Bandipur– A famous wildlife destination, Bandipur is a popular place to holiday in both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and the national park shares its border with the two states. Large number of tourists book Bandipur tours to experience the unique stay in the jungle resort along with enjoying jeep as well as elephant safari to sight the tigers.

· Others– The list of hill stations in Karnataka is endless as there are many other small hill destinations which promise equal charm and much more peace and serenity. Kudremukh, Nandi hills, Agumbe, Kundadri, Biligirirangana hills and Savandurga are not only popular hill stations one can visit on their South India toursbut are easily accessible from Bangalore as well.

The Isolated wildlife of Goa

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 07 Oct 2013 09:39:00 +0000

Much has been said about Goan beaches, Goan culture, Goan adventure delights, Goan nightlife and festivities and Goan flea markets and shopping. One the major facet in Goa which still has to get its due credit is the enchanting wildlife of the state. When planning a holiday in Goa, tourists should not miss visiting these popular wildlife sanctuaries where you can find the best of flora and fauna. The monsoon season, which has been tagged as the low tourist season in Goa is a good time to explore these wildlife hubs. Mentioned below are some of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries one can visit on their holiday trip to Goa.

· Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary – Sprawling on an area of 240 sq km, this is Goa’s largest wildlife sanctuary located at Molem village, which is just 55 km from Panaji. Surrounded by evergreen forests, the wildlife sanctuary is a perfect place to relax. You can reach this wildlife destination conveniently by taking up tour packages from Mumbai or many places close by. Herds of elephants, deers and occasional sighting of tigers are the major attraction. This sanctuary is home to numerous black panthers as well. If interested you can also explore the 13^thcentury Mahadev temple at Tambdi, which is just 12 km from the sanctuary.

Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary – Located just 60 km south of Panaji, Cotigao is a popular and second largest wildlife sanctuary in Goa. Varieties of tour packages from Bangalore to Goa are available which includes a trip to this beautiful wildlife destination. Sloth bears, hyena, wild board, deers and varieties of reptiles and monkeys can be sighted here. The wildlife sanctuary covers an area of 86 sq km and is ideal for a day trip. However, government rest house along with a few small hotels is available but bookings should be made well in advance. The tree top watch tower is a not to be missed place as from here one can enjoy splendid view of the sanctuary.

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

· Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary – Among all the wildlife hubs in Goa, Bondla wildlife sanctuary is the smallest one, but is blessed with the most exotic blend of flora and fauna. Goa tourism department has set up cottages for those interested to take up Bondla wildlife sanctuary tours. Tiny zoo, elephant rides, botanical garden and a small nature education centre are some of the prime attractions here. On your holiday or honeymoon trip to Goa, tourists can not only enjoy a calm holiday but also indulge in safaris to keep themselves occupied. The park remains closed on Thursday.

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Goa is a charming holiday destination and is well connected from all over the country by flights, trains and buses. Varieties of Goa tour packages from Delhiand all the other metros and popular cities are available. Come to these wildlife destinations in Goa during any part of the year and enjoy holidaying in Goa with a difference.

Beaches of Goa

Featured Bloggers:

John is a passionate blogger who reviewed mustseeindia.com last week and gave his inputs on how we have managed to help the travel community in India through our tool called CYOP (Create your own package). Read the review.

Reema in her own words is a wandering soul who is on a perennial quest to experience new things. She also reviewed www.mustseeindia.com recently and her inputs are really worth reading. Read the review.

If you would like to be part of Featured Bloggers, please email us on marketing@mustseeindia.com.

Dhanushkodi and Kachchatheevu: Oasis of Indian Ocean

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 23 Sep 2013 08:55:00 +0000

Dhanushkodi and Kachchatheevu are among the lesser known destinations in Tamil Nadu. While Dhanushkodi is located at the southern tip of Rameswaram, Kachchatheevu is a popular catholic shrine located on the Sri Lankan side of the maritime boundary. Tourists can enjoy visiting both these cities on their Rameswaram tour packages.

The Secret Island of Dhanushkodi

Dhanushkodi – Considered to be a holy spot, there are many mythological stories associated with Dhanushkodi. Located at the South east Pamban, Dhanushkodi is merely 30 km from Sri Lanka and has the only border between India and Sri Lanka. Pilgrims come to take a dip in the holy water of Dhanushkodi. The region was once connected to Pamban with a railway line but the infamous storm in 1964 destroyed it and hence tourists need to either take jeep, tempos of the fisherman or walk through the sand dunes in order to reach Dhanushkodi. Dhanushkodi in Rameswaram is a popular pilgrim destination and a must visit for those planning to holiday in Tamil Nadu. Dhanushkodi is well connected to many other cities like Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruchy and Tanjavaur. Besides indulging in ritual baths, tourists can also explore the various monuments. At the end of Dhanushkodi lies the popular chain of rocks which is believed to be the famous Rama’s bridge, constructed by Lord Ram.

Remains of the Church at Dhanushkodi

Pamban Bridge that connects Rameswaram to Indian Mainland

Kachchatheevu – A small uninhabited land administered by the Sri Lankan government, Kachchatheevu was a part of India till the year 1974. The island is only 1.6 km long and 300 mt in breath and a popular picnic spot. It is a sacred place famous for its catholic shrine. It is one of the few places which share its borders with India and Sri Lanka and it is a visa-free zone, meaning one requires an Indian or Sri Lankan visa in order to visit Kachchatheevu. St Anthony’s Church is the only standing monument there and the best time to visit is during the annual three day church festival held in March. There is nothing available on the island and even food and water is brought over from Rameswaram. This is a quiet and peaceful place where one can enjoy the clam blue water of the Palk Straits. Boats are the only means of transport available from Rameswaram. You can come to Kachchatheevu by taking up Rameswaram tours in South India.

Catholic Shrine at Kachchatheevu

For those planning a holiday in Rameswaram or taking up tours of Kanyakumari are recommended to include a trip to Dhanushkodi and Kachchatheevu, which are the two most enchanting places in Southern India.

Sunset at Kanyakumari

Kerala – What Makes it God's own Country !

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 06 Sep 2013 08:47:00 +0000

A lot of things have been said about Kerala, but it is very true that none of the words used to describe the region justifies its ethereal beauty and myriad opportunities. Kerala is known as God’s own country – not just because of the numerous temples which reverberates the whole ambiance with its soothing bells, but also because of the unending scenic beauty which brings you closer to god’s marvels. Some of the most popular tourist places in Kerala which are the gems of Kerala’s crowning glory are mentioned below.

1. Alleppey – Offering endless visual and soulful retreat, Alleppey is undoubtedly the most popular holiday places in India. Famous for its labyrinth of backwaters, this is the place to be. What once started as a sole means of transport within the region - houseboat has redefined itself into becoming a luxurious indulgence. Plan a holiday in Alleppey to enjoy a nonpareil stay in the houseboats during the night and enjoy cruising during the day.

Photo Submitted by Ajayashish

2. Munnar– Housing some of the most majestic forms of nature, Munnar is indeed a popular holiday destination in Kerala and a trip to Munnar will take you to the most picturesque regions of Kerala. Vast stretches of tea gardens with museums and hotels within, are a world in themselves. If you are interested in a calm and romantic holiday with a dash of heritage and adventure, then Munnar is the place to be.

Photo Submitted by Nidhi Sharma

3. Kumarakom – Kumarakom is a popular backwater as well as wildlife destination, and is a perfect place to sojourn. There is abundance of natural attractions that will keep the tourists happily engaged. So think no more, pack your bags and come to Kumarakom. Take Kumarakom tour packages or extend your holiday to Alleppey, either way the charm of Kumarakom is infectious.

Photo Submitted by Manoj

4. Wayanad – Another marvel of God’s nature, Wayanad is a perfect mix of nature, adventure, heritage and history. Travelers to Wayanad visit this destination during the monsoon when the natural beauty of Wayanad is at its zenith. An out-of-the-world experience one should not miss on their Wayanad tours is the chance to stay in tree house accommodations at Vythiri.

Photo Submitted by Vikas

5. Other Destinations – The magnanimity of Kerala is not restricted only to the above listed cities. There are too many offerings for the wildlife enthusiasts as well. There are Periyar and Thekkady holidayswhich will allow exploring the wild world of Kerala from proximity. Kovalam is the beach destination of Kerala while pilgrims visit Palakkad and Sabarimala to pay their reverence purify your soul. Kerala has it all!

Photo Submitted by Mrinal

If you want to test the limit of how much green can your eyes behold – then take up tours of Kerala to experience a never-before holiday. Kerala is indeed one of the most popular tourism circuits in India and one should not miss experiencing this heaven on earth.

Top destinations to visit in September

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 22 Aug 2013 07:04:00 +0000

Want to holiday in September, but not sure if monsoon will cause any hindrance to your memorable vacation! It is true that the month of September sees a lot of rainfall across the country, but this surely should not be the reason for you should postpone your holiday during this month when the natural beauty is at its pinnacle. Mentioned below is some of the most popular destinations one can visit during the month of September to enjoy a great and safe holiday.

Ooty – The charming hill station of Ooty dons a mesmerizing look during this month and enthralls the tourists with its verdant greenery and intermittent rainfall which is more of a joy rather than convenience. There are countless attractions and activities tourists can enjoy on their trip to Ooty, so start planning a trip to Ooty in September for a nonpareil holiday.

Photo Submitted by: Jayyachandran

Kerala Hill Stations – It is said that Kerala season never ends; however, the region is the most beautiful at this time of the year. Though the copious rainfall swallow up most of the beaches, the waterfalls and hill station thrive during the monsoons, making Kerala one of the coolest destination to holiday in September. Thekkady, Munnar and Wayanad are some of the most popular hill stations tourists can visit by taking up Kerala tours in September.

Photo Submitted by: Ajayashish

Yercaud - The region of Yercaud is a delightful destination to holiday during the month of September as the landscape delights of the region increases bounty times during this month. Getting up to the sweet chirping of the birds is not an uncommon delight at Yercaud. Book your Yercaud tour packagesin the month of September to enjoy a fantastic monsoon holiday at comparatively lower price.

Photo Submitted by: Sanjay

Dandeli – Dandeli, a small town in North Karnataka has still not got its due credit. Surrounded by lush greenery and offering amazing opportunities of enjoying wildlife and adventure, this is a must visit destination for those planning their holiday away from the city and into the arms of nature. Book a Dandeli holidayin Karnataka to enjoy a mesmerizing and soulful holiday which will give a relaxing break.

Photo Submitted by: Manoj

Bangalore – The capital of Karnataka, Bangalore, is not only a popular tourist place but serves as a perfect base for weekend packages from Bangaloreand excursions to various hill stations and destinations across the South Indian states.

Photo Submitted by: Pamio

Other Destinations – Some of the other more popular destination tourists can explore during the month of September are – Mount Abu, Coorg, Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar. September, the post monsoon month is also the best time to visit the famous waterfalls in Southern India.

September marks the beginning of most tourist destinations across the country. September is also the time when the climate of the country gets cooler and the preps for grand festivities of Navratra begins. So pack your bags and gear up for an enchanting holiday in September.

Visit us for customized holiday packages @ http://www.mustseeindia.com/packages

Email us: holidays@mustseeindia.com

Call us: +91 8067-683-939

Customers First policy

noreply@blogger.com (Vikas Rana) — Wed, 06 Mar 2013 11:30:00 +0000

We started into holiday packages about 1.5 years back with the intention of solving the pain points of travelers in India. Typical 'chalta hai' attitude towards customer service and lack of infrastructure makes planning difficult for travelers - wrong / half-baked information, delayed or no response, no transparency in prices, overcharging customers.

At Must See India, we have been working hard at solving exactly these type of customer problems. We've been taking a product-centric approach with heavy use of tech, minimizing human mistakes, giving more power to customers and overall bringing in efficiency. This is what we call "Customers First" policy.

It feels extremely good when you get thumbs up from your targeted audience. This response yesterday from one of our customers Mr Sagar Panda made my day. This backs our claim of booking a customer's package even before our competitors revert. Sagar travelled to Kashmir in last week of Feb and had a fabulous trip.

Special thanks to Nagaveni, who helped me to choose and customize my package and finally made it. I must say I tried GoIbibo, Make My Trip and Must See for more than two weeks. Found all prices are completive, but found the executives lake of confidence and getting irritated while customizing again and again except Nagaveni. She helped me till the end and create the faith and confidence to go by Must See, keeping behind MakeMyTrip. Also waited for the payment till end and suggested the rights.

About Must See: As this was my 1st expensive trip yet I was quite reluctant to pay to some unknown travel agency, but the executive’s cooperation and confidence made me to select Must See.

I like the most: Got reminder calls day before, trip Dash board the way its organized, cancellation policy, travel tips.

- Sagar Panda (Must See India customer)

We obviously have a long way to go before we can pat ourselves. This is just a confirmation that we are on the right path.

If you haven't tried us, now is the perfect time to join our thousands of happy customers. Take a look at our customizable packages, it's super easy to book your trip.

Launching E-commerce for Holiday Packages

noreply@blogger.com (Vikas Rana) — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 08:34:00 +0000

We have been working all this while behind curtains to try and figure out the conundrum called Holiday Packages. We are happy to formally launch our ecommerce packages, available at http://book.mustseeindia.com/packages.

This gives you the power to customize your package and book it online without any help. You can customize every piece of your package ranging from hotel to meals and transportation to sightseeing.

Of problems and solutions
As we have all experienced in past, booking a holiday package is a big pain. You can order a book online in 10 mins flat, so with a flight ticket. But why not a holiday package?

Well, now you can. And there's a perfectly good reason why it was not available till now. Anywhere. Because it is humongously complex.

It took us about 8 months of effort to come up with a version that is seamless. We soft launched it in Apr earlier this year and have seen extremely good results since then over a thousand bookings (which I'll talk about in another post).

Beginning of an epic journey for us. More features coming soon. Have fun holidaying this season!

Also check out the Press Release.

Report on mobile usage in India, Must See India ahead of Tripadvisor

noreply@blogger.com (Vikas Rana) — Fri, 23 Nov 2012 12:00:00 +0000

As per a report by Opera, India has the highest number of Opera Mini users worldwide. Most domains, including travel have shown exceptional growth in recent times.

They have also published the top 10 travel sites, and Must See India is no. 6 in the list, ahead of Tripadvisor and Cleartrip.

Top 10 travel sites in India

indianrail.gov.in
mapsofindia.com
indiarailinfo.com
makemytrip.com
trainenquiry.com
mustseeindia.com
indianrailways.gov.in
tripadvisor.com
cleartrip.com
jetairways.com

For other trends, check out the full report at opera.com.

Tiger Population Rises In Assam

noreply@blogger.com (Brindaa) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:35:00 +0000

The announcement of the increased rates of the Bengal tiger counts in Assam made by the State Forest Minister Rockful Hussain has brought smiles to many wildlife lovers. The latest tiger census revealed the presence of 143 big cats in the state, which is good news for wildlife lovers.

The census reveals the increased of tigers in various wildlife sanctuaries, with the highest number of them being at Kaziranga National Park in Upper Assam, which is a world heritage site. Tigers are present in Manas tiger reserve and Nameri and Orang wildlife sanctuaries.

The biggest threat of disappearing of big cats has now been little lessened with the increasing population of tigers in Assam.

Enthusiasts to celebrate: India’s tiger population has grown. Check out this clip to celebrate.

Must See India wins Manthan Award

noreply@blogger.com (Vikas Rana) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 09:23:00 +0000

It gives me great pleasure to announce that Must See India has won the Manthan Awards in e-Travel & Tourism category.

Manthan Awards celebrate excellence in each of the fields across entire South Asia. It received over 450 nominations. We are honored to receive this award.

This award is a tribute to the awesome team that has put tons of effort in creating mustseeindia.com as the no. 1 Travel information portal in India. We thank all our users for their faith and contribution in the awards and accolades this season.

Nominated for Multiple Awards

noreply@blogger.com (Vikas Rana) — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 10:13:00 +0000

We are glad that Must See India has been nominated for multiple awards, including

Times Travel Honours

Top 50 startups by Nasscom

Best company in South Asia

Congratulations to all! It's an amazing feeling and entire Must See India team thank you all for your support.

Top travel sites in India

noreply@blogger.com (Vikas Rana) — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 10:57:00 +0000

Tnooz, leading blog focusing on latest news and analysis in travel and tourism sector, has started publishing list of top travel sites in India and we are glad to be in top 3.

Thanks for all the love, looking forward to similar support in future.

And oh, we're hiring.