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Top 10 Pilgrimage Destinations in India

2016-07-11T08:57:00.000-07:00

This post offers info on top 10 pilgrimage destinations in India along with other popular pilgrimage places of India.

India is a vast country, with diverse cultures and ancient civilizations. Spiritual sites has made many ordinary destinations into important religious places in India. Let us learn about some of the most visited religious places and best pilgrimage destinations in India.

Most Popular Top 10 Pilgrimage Destinations in India

Haridwar and Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons

Haridwar is an important pilgrimage city and municipality in the Haridwar district of Uttarakhand. It is the gateway to the four pilgrimages (Char Dham Yatra) of Uttarakhand and is known as the “Gateway of God”. Haridwar is the place of origination of river Ganges and every evening devotees lit lamps and sent them floating down the river after evening aarti.

Many pilgrims, devotees, and tourists come together in Haridwar to perform ritualistic bathing on the banks of the Ganges to wash away their sins to attain Moksha. Brahma Kund, the spot where the Amrit fell, is located at Har ki Pauri ("footsteps of the Lord") and is considered to be the most sacred ghat of Haridwar. The Mansa Devi temple in Haridwar, is belived to grant the wishes of those who visit the temple.

Some of the famous Pilgrimage sites in Haridwar are Har Ki Pauri, Chandi Devi Temple, Mansa Devi Temple, Maya Devi Temple, Ram Mandir, Sapt Rishi Ashram and Sapt Sarovar, Parad Shivling and many others. Haridwar is one of the most visited India pilgrimage destinations.

Rishikesh is a city in the northern state of Uttarakhand. It's situated on the banks of the Ganges River, surrounded by hills on three sides, and is located approximately 25 km north of the city Haridwar and 43 km south-east of the state capital Dehradun. It is known as The Gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas and yoga capital. The place offers a perfect spot for pilgrimage along with meditation and yoga facilities.

The whole place is considered to be sacred as it is believed that meditation at this place leads to attainment of salvation. Rishikesh attracts those seeking knowledge and peace with its numerous temples, ashrams, and yoga institutes. It is also suggested place for starting their trekking expeditions. Some of the major attractions are - Lakshmana Jhula, Mahadeo Temple, Triveni Ghat, Swarga Ashram and Vasishtha Goofa.

Video on Haridwar and Rishikesh Yatra

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons

Varanasi is a North Indian city with old history and spiritualism on the banks of the Ganga in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Varanasi is also known as the favourite city of the Hindu deity Lord Shiva. It is often referred to as "the holy city of India", "the religious capital of India", "the city of Shiva", and "the city of learning".

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with settlements dating back to the 11th century BC. Many Hindus believe that dying in Varanasi brings salvation/nirvana.

The Vishwanath Temple, built in 1776, is a popular Hindu holy place. The River Ganga is a sacred river for the Hindus and you will see traditional rituals and bathing occurring at all times of the day.

Ghats in Varanasi (has at least 84 ghats) are an integral complement to the concept of divinity represented in physical, metaphysical and supernatural elements. All the ghats are locations on "the divine cosmic road", indicative of "its manifest transcendental dimension.

Some of the most popular ghats are: The Dashashwamedh Ghat (the main and probably the oldest ghat of Varanasi located on the Ganges, close to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple where every evening visitor assembles for ‘aarti’ or prayer ceremony), Panchganga Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Rana Ghat, Narad Ghat, Harishchandra Ghat, Hanuman Ghat, Shivala Ghat, Tulsi Ghat and Assi Ghat. Varanasi is the most famous India pilgrimage destination.

Varanasi Ganga Aarti Holy River Hindu Worship Ritual

Bodhgaya, Bihar

Bodh Gaya is a religious site and place of pilgrimage associated with the Mahabodhi Temple Complex in Gaya, Bihar. As the place where Gautama Buddha is said to have obtained Enlightenment under a Bodhi tree, Bodh Gaya is the most revered of all Buddhist sacred sites. The main temple complex houses the famous Mahabodhi temple and a descendant of the original Bodhi Tree under which the Buddha gained enlightenment.

Some of the famous sites to visit: Bodhi Tree, Mahabodhi Stupa,Thai Monastery, 80-foot Buddha Statue, Royal Bhutanese Monastery, Japanese temple and Archaelogical Museum.

Video:

Amritsar, Punjab

Amritsar, is a holy city in the state of Punjab. It is home to the the Golden Temple (also known as Harmandir Sahib), the spiritual and cultural center for the Sikh religion. The Golden Temple looks mesmerizing at night and even worth a visit at day time for prayer. Pilgrims take a bath in the Amrit Sarovar, a scared water pool around the Temple.

The Golden Temple is the main attraction in the city, and the most important religious place to the Sikhs. Some other tourist places in Amritsar are: Gobindgarh Fort,Jallianwala Bagh, Wagah Border, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Garden, Ram Tirath Temple and Durgiana Temple.

Video-Golden Temple, Amritsar

Shirdi, Maharashtra

Photo courtesy: Shrisaibabasansthan.org

Shirdi is a town in the Ahmednagar district, located approximately 296 km from Mumbai, capital of Maharashtra in India. It is called the Land of Sai. The Shirdi Sai baba Temple, built over the Samadhi of Sai Baba is located at Shirdi. Millions of Sai baba devotees from all over the world come each year to pay their respects.

The closest and most highly connected city from Shirdi is Ahmednagar city. Shirdi is one of the most popular pilgrimage destinations in India.

Official Website of Shri Saibaba Sansthan Trust,Shirdi: Shrisaibabasansthan.org (External link)

Tirupati Balaji, Andhra Pradesh

Photo courtesy: tirumala.org

Tirupati is a city in Chittoor district of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Tirupati is considered one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites because of Tirumala Venkateswara Temple (also known by other names like Tirumala Temple, Tirupati Temple, Tirupati Balaji Temple), besides other historical temples, and is referred to as the "Spiritual Capital of Andhra Pradesh".

Devoted to Lord Venkateshwara, Tirupati temple is a must visit pilgrimage destination for Hindus. Located 10 km away from Tirupati city center, Tirumala Venkateswara temple is the most notable temple for being the world's richest.

Beside Tirupati Balaji Temple Temple, the city is known for many other ancient temples, such as Padmavathi Temple at Tiruchanur, Govindaraja Temple Kapileswara Temple at Kapila Theertham, Sri Kodandaramaswami Temple etc. It is another most famous sacred destination of India.

Video- Tirupati Balaji Temple

Jammu and Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir is a state in northern India. It is located mostly in the Himalayan mountains, and shares borders with the states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab to the south.

Vaishno devi

Photo courtesy: Maavaishnodevi.org

A pilgrimage to the Holy Shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji is considered to be one of the holiest pilgrimages of our times. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji resides in a Holy Cave located in the folds of the three peaked mountain named Trikuta. Pilgrims start trekking to the cave temple, which is 13 km from Katra,which is close to Jammu. At the end of the cave are shrines dedicated to the three forms of the mother goddess — Mahakali, Mahalakshmi and Mahasarasvati, which is manifested as Vaishno Devi. It is one of the most visited pilgrimages in India

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Official Website: Maavaishnodevi.org (External link)

You can also visit Raghunath Temple-dedicated to the Hindu Lord Shri Rama. This temple is located in the centre of Jammu.

In Kashmir Valley
Amarnath temple - pilgrimage site for Hindu devotees of Shiva. The cave is situated at an altitude of 3,888 m (12,756 ft), about 141 km (88 mi) from Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir and reached through Pahalgam town.

Note:
If you are planning for Amarnath Yatra, it is highly recommended to check the useful information, Yatra schedule or contact for the queries related to Amarnath Yatra by visiting:
http://www.shriamarnathjishrine.com/help-desk.html (Contact details of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board-External Link)

Kedarnath and Badrinath, Uttarakhand

Kedarnath, located in the Indian state of Uttarakhand in the Rudra Himalaya range. It has gained importance because of Kedarnath Temple- a Hindu temple dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva. It’s a thousand year old temple built of massive stone and a home to Lord Shiva in the form of ‘Jyotirlingam’ or the cosmic light.

Lord Shiva is worshiped as Kedarnath, the 'Lord of Kedar Khand', the historical name of the region. A journey to Kedarnath can be the most sacred and religious journey in any individual’s life.

Badrinath is a holy town in the state of Uttarakhand, India. It is the most important of the four sites in India's Char Dham pilgrimage and gets its name from the temple of Badrinath. The temple is also one of the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Vishnu, who is worshipped as Badrinath—holy shrines for Vaishnavites.

It is open for six months every year (between the end of April and the beginning of November), because of extreme weather conditions in the Himalayan region. The temple is located in Garhwal hill tracks in Chamoli district along the banks of Alaknanda River at an elevation of 3,133 m (10,279 ft) above the mean sea level.

Ajmer, Rajasthan

Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons

Ajmer is the city in the Indian state of Rajasthan and is the centre of the eponymous Ajmer District. The city is located at a distance of 135 km from the state capital Jaipur and 391 km from the national capital New Delhi. Ajmer is surrounded by the Aravalli Mountains and is a well-known sacred destination for the Muslims as well as Hindu pilgrims.

It is a pilgrimage centre for the shrine of the Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti (situated at the foot of the Taragarh hill) and is also the base for visiting Pushkar (about 14 kms), an ancient Hindu pilgrimage city, famous for the temple of Brahma.

You can check here (External link to Wikipedia) for more info on Ajmer Sharif Dargah
Visit here (External link to Wikipedia) for info on Brahma Temple, Pushkar.

Puri, Odisha

Photograph courtesy: Wikimedia Commons

Puri is a city located in the state of Odisha in eastern India. Puri is also known as Jagannath Puri after the 12th-century Jagannath Temple located in the city.

The Jagannath Temple of Puri is a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Jagannath. The temple is an important pilgrimage destination for many Hindu traditions, particularly worshippers of god Krishna and god Vishnu, and part of the Char Dham pilgrimages. The temple was built in the 12th century and is famous for its annual Rath Yatra, or chariot festival.

Other Spiritual (pilgrimage) destinations in India

Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu

Rameswaram is located in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Together with Varanasi, it is considered to be one of the holiest places in India to Hindus, and part of the Char Dham pilgrimage. It is said that this is the place from where the Hindu god Rama built a bridge across the sea to Lanka to rescue his wife Sita from her abductor Ravana. The Ramanathaswamy Temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, is located at the centre of the town and is closely associated with Rama.

Udupi, Karnataka

Udupi is a city in the southwest Indian State of Karnataka. Udupi is famous for Sri Krishna Temple (dedicated to Hindu god Sri Krishna). It is also known as Lord Parasurama Kshetra, and is famous for Kanakana Kindi. Udupi, also known as Rajata Peetha and Shivalli, a centre of pilgrimage, is situated about 60 km north of Mangalore and about 422 km northwest of Bangalore.

Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu

Located around four hours from Chennai in Tamil Nadu, Tiruvannamali attracts spiritual seekers to its Sri Ramana Ashram and Hindu pilgrims who walk around holy Mount Arunachala and pray at Annamalaiyar Temple, where Lord Shiva is worshiped as the element of fire.

Madurai, Tamil Nadu

The Meenakshi temple at Madurai is a holy place for millions of Hindus. Madurai has been an important spiritual and learning center for more than 2500 years. Popular Meenakshi Amman Temple is located in the heart of Madurai. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh

Popular for Triveni Sangam. In Hindu tradition Triveni Sangam is the "confluence" of three rivers (two physical rivers — Ganges and Yamuna — and the invisible Saraswati River). A bath here is said to flush away all of one's sins and free one from the cycle of rebirth. It is the site for historic Kumbh Mela held every 12 years.

You can check for more info on Triveni Sangam here (External link to Wikipedia)

Mathura and Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

Mathura is the birthplace of Lord Krishna which is located at the centre of Braj or Brij-bhoomi, called Shri Krishna Janma-Bhoomi ('Lord Krishna's birthplace’). It is located approximately 50 north of Agra, and 145 kilometres south-east of Delhi.
Vrindavan is the site where according to Hinduism, Lord Krishna spent his childhood days. The town is about 11 km away from Mathura, Krishna's birthplace on the Agra-Delhi highway.

Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh

An ancient city of India, believed to be the birthplace of Rama. Ayodhya has been regarded as one of the seven most important pilgrimage sites (Saptapuri) for Hindus.

You can check here (External link to Wikipedia) for detail info on Ayodhya.

Dwarka, Gujarat

Dwarka is one of the foremost Chardhams, four sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites, and is one of the Sapta Puri, the seven most ancient religious cities in the country. Dwarka is often identified with the Dwarka Kingdom, the ancient kingdom of Krishna.

Hemkund Sahib, Uttarakhand

Hemkund Sahib, known as Gurudwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib Ji, is a Sikh place of worship and pilgrimage site in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, India. It is devoted to Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru, and finds mention in Dasam Granth, a work dictated by Guruji himself.

Official website of Gurudwara Sri Hemkunt Sahib: Shrihemkuntsahib.com (External link)

Mumbai, Maharashtra

Famous for the Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Mandir- a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shri Ganesh. It is located in Prabhadevi, Mumbai, Maharashtra.

Prabhas Patan, Gujarat

Popularly known as Somnath Pata. The Somnath temple is located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Saurashtra, Gujarat, is the first among the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva. It is an important pilgrimage and tourist spot. The temple is considered sacred due to the various legends connected to it. The temple is open daily from 6AM to 9PM.

Suggestion:
If you are planning for spiritual (pilgrimage) tours in India, we suggest to have proper knowledge of that India pilgrimage destination which you are planning to visit. You can even get in touch with your tour operator for complete info.

You can explore here (External link to Wikipedia), for the complete list of Pilgrimage places in India.

Read more Travel Articles on India

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Top 10 Places to Visit in Rajasthan

2015-08-22T10:19:00.004-07:00

Rajasthan, earlier called Rajputana obtained statehood when it was merged with the Dominion of India in 30th March 1949. It covers an area of 342,239 sq kilometers and is 10.4% of India’s total area. It is located on the northern side of the country, where it comprises most of the Thar Desert. All the things that come to mind when you think of India can be found in Rajasthan -palaces, forts, desert, camels, elephants, and snake charmers.

In this post read about a list of the top 10 places to visit in Rajasthan. There are innumerable tourist places to visit in Rajasthan. Each and every place, extremely unique with an enthralling story behind it. Rajasthan’s strong adherence to tradition is precisely what makes it a compelling place to travel around.

Top Ten Tourist Places to Visit in Rajasthan

Jaipur

Jaipur is popularly known as "Pink City" and is the capital city of Indian state of Rajasthan. It was founded 'Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II' in the 18th Century and city was named after him. It is one of the top places to visit in Rajasthan.

It’s the 10th most populous city in India. Jaipur is a nexus of heritage, modernity and sheer beauty. It holds cultural heritage sites like the fort of Amer and Hawa Mahal. Jaipur is a part of India’s golden triangle tourist circuit.

A visit to Jaipur will give you a feel for how the monarchy once lived in all its glory.

Udaipur

It is the historic capital of the kingdom of Mewar. Udaipur is a dazzling city full of ancient manors, intricately designed temples, and grand mansions overlooking exquisite lakes.

The City Palace, which stretches along the eastern shore of Lake Pichola, is a highlight.

Other amazing places to visit in Udaipur are The Lake Palace located near Jag Niwas Island, The Monsoon Palace which was the summer getaway for the royalty in the erstwhile era and also The Jagdish Temple.

Jaisalmer

Also known as the Golden City of Rajasthan. The city is best known for its beautiful sand dunes, its impressive fort and the exotic culture and traditions of the people.

Jaisalmer looks like the city where all of the Allahdin cartoon series was shot. It looks as if it has risen straight from the sand dunes and a must visit place in Rajasthan. A must visit places in Jaisalmer are The Jaisalmer Fort, locally called Sonar Quila, Sam sand dunes s a place where one must go to experience the vastness of the Thar Desert. Gadsisar lake and and The Desert National Park are the other major tourist spots.

Jodhpur

Informally known as the "Blue City" for its blue painted buildings, Jodhpur is a must visit place in Rajasthan. Mehrangarh Fort stands tall over the old part of the city giving it an exquisite and royal look. It is one of the largest forts in India standing 400 ft above the ground. Every October it has the honor of providing the setting for the Rajasthan International Folk Festival.

Other places to visit are the serene lakes of Balsamand and Kailana. Both of the lakes are surrounded by beautiful lush green lands and are a must visit for bird lovers.

Bikaner

Before the 15th century, Bikaner was called Jangladesh and was all barren wildernesses and now it’s popular for its food and forts. It is the home of the Junagarh Fort, all of which has been preserved to show the grandiosity with which Maharanas lived.

The very famous Karni Mata Temple is also located in Bikaner. The various arts and crafts of this place are also unique, especially the intricately carved windowpanes called jharokhas.

If one wants to taste authentic Rajasthani Cuisine, Bikaner is the place to go and explore.

Pushkar

It lies in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan and is described as the most important of all the pilgrim places. Pushkar lies beside the famous Puskar lake which has been said to form out of Lord Shiva’s tears. The town is one of the oldest cities of India and the date of its origin is unknown and is often associated with the Hindu mythology.

One of the most prominent attractions in Pushkar is the annual camel festival. It’s a week long affair where exchange of livestock is done. But that’s not it, the entire week is filled with music, creative arts performances and multiple other events.

Chittorgarh

Chittorgarh also called Chittor was founded by the Mauryan Dynasty. It has had a major role in defining history, a lot of prominent historical figues like the The Great Maharana Pratap and the saint Meera Bai, both were born here.

One of the major places here is the Chittorgarh fort, which is the largest fort in India. The fort was the former capital of Mewar before its relocation to the more secure city of Udaipur. The fort was founded in the 7th century by the 1st Sisodiya Rajput Ruler Bappa Rawal and spreads over an area of 2.8 sq kilometers and its highest elevation point is 1,075 meters above sea level. The Chittorgarh fort exemplifies the best of Raiput Architecture.

Shekhawati Region

If you're an art lover, or even someone who's into architecture and history, the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan is well worth including on your itinerary. It’s located in the Northern Region and is on list of tourist places to visit in Rajasthan. History has it that during the 18th and 19th century, the Marwari merchants in a quest to outdo each other in display of affluence and wealth constructed beautifully intricate and expensive havelis. Therefore, this unique region is often referred to as the world's largest open air art gallery. To see- Mandwa Fort, The Vivanaa Culture Hotel and the Dundlod Fort.

Bundi

It is located in the Hadoti region of Rajasthan and isn’t a very known place in terms of the traffic of tourists it gets. It’s a place of rich heritage, ornate forts and palaces and step well reservoirs known as Baoris. The Targargh Fort or the Star fort is a marvel of architecture from Medieval India.

The reservoir was constructed with three tanks, which at no point during the year goes dry. The technique was precise and well calculated that the baori still stands and fulfills its purpose.

Bharatpur

It is also known as Lohagarh it has now been included in the National Capital Region (NCR). The city is also considered to be the Eastern Gateway to Rajasthan. Deeg Palace is one of the most important tourist attraction in which was constructed by Badan Singh, what started off as a summer resort for the royalty was also briefly the capital of the Jat kings before they shifted To Bharatpur. Deeg witnessed the legendary battle between the Jats and the Mughals and Marathas combined.

Another major tourist spot is the The Keoladeo National Park which was formerly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. The park plays host to a large number of migratory birds during the winters. An estimated number of 230 species of birds have made the Keoladeo National Park their home.

Other Places to Visit in Rajasthan

Mount Abu
It is a popular hill station in the Aravalli Range in Sirohi district of Rajasthan state. It is referred to as 'an oasis in the desert' as its heights are home to rivers, lakes, waterfalls and evergreen forests.

Kumbhalgarh
It is a city in the Rajsamand District of Rajasthan located 102 km west of Udaipur and is an interesting destination, which attracts tourists for its massive citadel built 1443 A.D. and the wildlife sanctuary nearby.

Kota
An important historic city of Rajasthan. Kota is famous for its architectural heritage comprising of beautiful palaces, temples, museums, all reflecting the splendor of the bygone era. The major tourist attractions in Kota Tour include the City Fort and Palace, Rao Madho Singh Museum, Jagmandir Palace, Haveli of Deaji and Chambal Gardens among many more. Best Time To Visit : September To March.

Ranakpur
A village located in Desuri tehsil near Sadri town in the Pali district of Rajasthan in western India. 162 km from Jodhpur and 91 km from Udaipur. Ranakpur is widely known for its marble Jain temple, said to be the most spectacular of the Jain temples.

Hanumangarh
Hanumangarh is a city in northern Rajasthan state in western India, situated on the banks of the river Ghaggar also identified as Ancient Sarasvati river, located about 400 km from Delhi. Major tourist attarctions of Hanumangarh, Rajasthan are Bhatner Fort, Temple of Mata Bhadrakali , KaliBanga and Historic Gurudwara.

Churu
It is a town in the desert region of Rajasthan state of India. It lies in the Thar Desert. It is famous for the shifting sand dunes of the Thar Desert and beautiful grand havelis with marvelous fresco paintings, namely Kanhaiya lal Bagla ki Haweli and Surana Haweli, with hundreds of small windows.

Rajsamand
Sixty-five kms from Udaipur, it is arguably the most beautiful lake in Rajasthan. Major Tourist Attraction -Rajsamand Lake. Best Time To Visit -October to March.

Jhunjhunu
A town in the state of Rajasthan located a 180 km away from Jaipur, 220 km from Bikaner and 240 km from Delhi. The town is famous for the frescos on its grand Havelis; a special artistic feature of this region.

Bhilwara
The beautiful city in the state of Rajasthan, is famous for its culture, clothing, tranquility and prehistoric architectural wonders.

Places to see -Harni Mahadev, Mejha Dam, Menal, Joganiya Mata, Triveni, Mandalgarh Fort and Shahpura.

Dausa
It is 55 km from Jaipur, 100 km from Hindaun City, 240 km from Delhi and situated at NH-11. It is also known as "Dev Nagari". Major attractions-Abhaneri and Mehandipur Balaji Temple .

Jalore
It is 240-km From Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Places to visit in the city are Jalore Fort, Kirti Stambh and Nadishwar Deep Tirth, Jalore Wildlife Sanctuary and Fort Gateway.

Best time to visit-October To March.
Climate- Extreme cold in winter and hot in summer..

Mandawa
The beautiful small town, known for its forts and havelis. Best time to visit -October to March.

Dholpur
It is located at a distance of 113 km from Bharatpur. Places to visit in the city are Ramsagar Sanctuary, National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary, Shree Ramchand and Hanuman Temple and Van Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Osian
An ancient town located in the Jodhpur District of Rajasthan state in western India and is famous for its Hindu and Jain temples.

Banswara
The native place of the Bhil tribe, Banswara is also called as "City of Hundred Islands". It is about 160 km away from the lake city of Udaipur.

Dungarpur
An historic city that is located in the Dungarpur district in the state of Rajasthan. The major places worth visiting in Dungarpur are Baneshwar Fair, Dungarpur Museum, Gaib Sagar Lake, Juna Mahal, Udai Bilas Palace and Urs- Galiyakot. Best time to visit-October to February

Ghanerao
A small village located in the district of Pali, Rajasthan, is famous for its heritage, landscape and wildlife. Best time to visit-October to March.

Also read: Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations in India

Map:
Explore Rajasthan Map Here (External Link to Google Map)

Photos:
Check Rajasthan Photos Here (External Link to Flickr)

You can help in editing this post. Please share your thoughts/changes (if required) through comment. We will give you proper credit.

Top 10 Scuba Diving Destinations in the World

2015-07-09T02:32:00.001-07:00

This post offers info on top 10 scuba diving destinations and best scuba dive sites in the world.

Scuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (scuba) to breathe underwater. A scuba diver usually moves around underwater by using fins attached to the feet, but external propulsion can be provided by a diver propulsion vehicle, or a sled pulled from the surface.

Read in detail - About Scuba Diving and Scuba Diving History

Image courtesy: flickr.com/photos/dkeats/6211565580

Scuba diving is an excellent way to see some amazing and beautiful sites. Tropical coral diving destinations are most popular for colourful sea life, however other scuba diving attractions include tropical and temperate rocky reefs, shipwrecks, caverns and caves.

Many best scuba diving sites are accessible (under the care of an instructor) after a short briefing and training dive.

Check below the top 10 scuba diving destinations in the world as well as also learn about best scuba diving sites and decided for your next diving underwater trip.

Top 10 Scuba Diving Destinations

Costa Rica, Central America

Costa Rica is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea in the heart of Central America. It is a prime ecotourism destination. It is widely recognized as one of the world's most biodiverse nations. Costa Rica is among a top scuba diving destinations in the world, especially along the Pacific coast, where crystalline waters are home are home to a variety of marine life.

Dive Season: You can dive all year, rainy season: May to November

The Best Diving sites in Costa Rica

Cocos Island : Just four miles long, peaking at 3,000 feet, this island, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a top diving destination. "Scuba Travel" and "The Guardian" list Cocos Island as one of the world's best.
Caño Island : Offers some of the most exciting diving anywhere in the world. A wide variety of marine life can be discovered. Catalina Islands: well known for finding some manta rays, sharks, multi-colored tropical fish and amazing coral reefs.
Bat Islands (or Islas Murciolago): Large shark species like bull, tiger and whale sharks, as well as manta, eagle and devil ray can be found here.

Video:

Fiji

Fiji,is an island country in Melanesia in the South Pacific Ocean. It lies about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand and consists of an archipelago that includes 332 islands.

Fiji is an amazing tourist destination. For the diving lovers, it offers some of the World's best scuba diving with a comprehensive range of excellent dive locations.

The Dive Destinations in Fiji:

Taveuni and the Koro Sea : Dive the amazing Rainbow Reef, The Great White Wall, The Purple Wall, The Zoo, The Fish Factory and many others. Wakaya and Namena in the Koro Sea is Fiji's best claim as a world class dive destination and is a prime adventure cruising ground for liveaboards.
Beqa Island (Beqa Lagoon): Famous for its firewalkers and turquoise lagoon.
Kadavu : The best diving destination in southern Fiji, explore the rugged untamed reefs of Kadavu's Great Astrolabe Reef where mantas play over vast fields of pristine hard corals.
Rakiraki, Viti Levu: Offers divers access to colourful pristine reefs and an abundance of fish.

Mexico

Mexico is a country in North America, between the USA to the north, and Guatemala and Belize to the southeast and a diverse landscape of mountains, deserts and jungles. Its extensive coastlines of more than 10,000 kms include the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west.

If you are interested in the exciting open ocean dives then a liveaboard cruise in the Pacific is the best choice. Mexico is among the top 10 scuba diving destinations in the world. For land-based diving and other tourist activities, look to the Caribbean Sea.

Top Scuba Dive Locations and Sites in Mexico:

Mexico's Pacific Coast

Islas Marias: An island off the pacific coastline of Mexico, it is a great scuba diving site. The deep and clear waters of the Pacific give a great view of the life underwater.
Baja Peninsula: The town of Coba is the paradise for experienced scuba divers. Coba is situated at the tip of the Baja peninsula and offers a wide range of diving options.
Puerto Vallarta: Popular spot for scuba diving along the pacific coastline. Clear waters and scattered reef system.
Acapulco: The low temperature of water here offers a different kind of challenge for scuba diving. Here you would want an expert diver escorting you.

Best diving options in Gulf of Mexico Caribbean Sea

Riviera Maya and Costa Maya: The best place for a great scuba diving experience. At the meeting point of the Caribbean Sea and the Yucatan Peninsula it offers warm and clear blue waters, excellent for both beginners and professional divers.
Cancun: Ultimate tourist spot with all its fun and adventure activities. Access more than 400 submerged sculptures of the biggest underwater museum in the world.
Isla Mujeres: 6 kilometer island off the coast of Cancun various of fun activities including scuba diving.
Cozumel: Popular scuba diving and snorkeling destination which is famous for its ‘balneario’ or seaside resort town. Cozumel allows you to do some deep wall dive as well as drift dives.
Puerto Morelos: See the natural and artificial reefs and also the coral covered gunboat.
Banco Chinchorro: The secluded and protected area. See the amazing colors of the reef in coastal waters. Wide range of fish and other marine animals can be seen here.
Anton Lizardo: Relax on the pristine beaches and go diving as per your convenience. You can also explore the Veracruz reef here. It is a different ecosystem altogether untouched by heavy tourist activities.

Egypt

The rich history of the Red Sea is matched by the richness of its waters and the abundance of marine life it supports. It is considered to be one of the 7 Wonders of the underwater world, harbouring more than 1,000 species of invertebrates and over 200 species of soft and hard coral. Almost all dives in that area are walk-ins, visibility is regularly 20 to 30 meters, and the color and variety of the underwater life is spectacular because the coral is still in excellent condition.

The Red Sea dive sites offer you unobstructed opportunities to spot tropical marine life in crystal clear waters, ranging from sharks and dolphins to gorgonian fans and feather-stars. Red sea is yet another best places to scuba dive in the world.

North Red Sea: The resort destinations such as Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada and the more laidback Dahab. Sharm El Sheikh offers excellent wreck diving , Hurghada offers good conditions to learn scuba diving as well as great wreck diving with 4 beautiful wrecks to explore in Abu Nuhas Reef. Dahab is famous worldwide for the Dahab Blue Hole.
The South Red Sea is less popular and offers much less crowded dive. Most of the people coming here are experienced divers looking for world class scuba diving. Marsa Alam is the main gateway.

Video:

Indonesia

With 18,110 islands, 6,000 of them inhabited, Indonesia is the largest archipelago in the world. Indonesia is known for its pristine diving and incredible underwater experiences. It is possible to dive in Indonesia all year round. Although it is important to know weather conditions varies greatly from place to place so it is advised to conditions in advance.

The best and main scuba diving destinations in Indonesia are:

Bali: Most popular tourist resort island has plenty of options for scuba divers of all levels of experience. Deep walls, drift dives through deep water channels, coral reefs, volcanic muck diving, a world famous wreck, mola mola and mantas, best island scenery makes it a popular dive destination.
The Gili Islands Lombok: Good for beginner divers as the conditions are usually good. The visibility good around 20 meters. Water around the Gilis are full of turtles.
Komodo: Best for intermediate to advanced divers.see a multitude of fish and some larger pelagics and marine mammals such as mantas, dolphins and sharks.
Sumatra: Place to see clown fish, turtles, stingrays, moray eels and black snappers hanging between the rocks.
Wakatobi, Sulawesi: Home to creatures ranging from the small and strange to giant mantas and resident turtles.Accessible coral garden at Teluk Maya harbors Pegasus sea moths and pipe fish. Many sites feature thick forests of vibrant soft corals, which hide lots of animals.
Raja Ampat, Papua: Richest place for Marine life. Magnificent hard and soft coral, clear water and a teeming reef life. spot many Sharks, Giant Trevally or the Dogtooth Tuna, very rare Dugong and more.
Lembeh, Manado & North Sulawesi: Offers a plethora of dive sites and is suitable for divers of all experience levels.

Palau

Palau, is an island country located in the western Pacific Ocean. Palau is a chain of 200 islands in the western Pacific lying some 650 km (528 miles) to the southeast of the Philippines. Currently rated as the “hottest dive spot on planet earth,” Palau is well-known for its quantity of pelagic and strong currents. It is home to large permanent schools of barracuda, large numbers of fairly harmless grey, white-tip, and black-tip reef sharks, and sea turtles.

Palau’s most famous and best scuba diving sites.

For Reef Diving
Best Five:

Blue Corner, Blue Holes
German Channel
Ulong Channel
Peleliu Wall
New Drop-Off

Other:

Big Drop-Off & Ngemelis Wall
Chandelier Cave
Devil Fish City
Ngedbus Coral Garden, Wall & Corner
Ngerong Outside & Inside
Peleliu Express & Yellow Wall
Shark City
Short Drop Off
Siaes Corner, Wall & Tunnel
Turtle Cove & Barnum’s Wall
Turtle Wall
Virgin Blue Hole

For Wreck Diving

Best Five:

Jake’s Sea Plane
Amatsu Maru (Largest Wreck in Micronesia)
Helmet Wreck
Iro Maru
Chuyo Maru

Others:

Amatsu Maru
Bichu Maru
Buoy 6 Wreck
Raizan Maru
Ryuko Maru
Teshio Maru
Zeke Fighter

Australia

Australia is an Oceanian country comprising the mainland of the Australian continent, the island of Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands. Australia, one of the top scuba diving destinations in the world, offers some of the best diving in the world.

It is most popular for the Great Barrier Reef, Great White Shark cage diving and the Ningaloo Reef where you can swim with Whale Sharks. Water clarity varies greatly depending on the area and time of year.

The best and main scuba diving destinations in Australia are:

Queensland & The Great Barrier Reef: A long tropical reef system off Far North Queensland, is Australia's biggest dive attraction. Home to the Great Barrier Reef, which is the largest coral reef system in the world.
New South Wales (NSW): Offers a rich variety of year round diving with both warm and cold water currents spread across the coastline
Victoria: Encounter beautiful marine life including cuttlefish, octopus, giant sea stars, rays, sea horses and even seals.
South Australia: Bio diverse temperate waters offer amazing shore dive opportunities under the many jetties in and around Adelaide, as well as some stunning wreck dives.
Western Australia: Home to 200 species of hard coral, 50 soft coral and over 500 species of fish.
Tasmania: known for its natural and untouched beauty. The many wrecks, huge rocks structures, caverns and endemic marine species make diving in Tasmania an adventure. Water has visibility between 10 to 40 metres.
Northern Territory: The coral reefs off Darwin have a rich diversity of reef fish and invertebrates, and Australia’s best collection of World War II shipwrecks.

The Best dive sites:

North Horn
Cod Hole
The Yongala Wreck
Navy Pier in Exmouth

Video:

The Maldives

Maldives, is an island nation in the Indian Ocean–Arabian Sea area, consisting of a double chain of twenty-six atolls, oriented north-south, that lie between Minicoy Island and the Chagos Archipelago.

Scuba Diving around the Maldives has become hugely popular among the diving community. The hundreds of isolated and deserted Islands offer an enormous playground for divers to explore.

Ari Atoll has the most popular scuba diving operations because of its marvellous diving sites, the presence of both pelagic fish and colourful reefs, and the ease of reaching it.

North and South Male Atoll offer also different diving sites and being near the capital Malé and the airport makes it even easier to reach the resort islands.

Diving typology in Maldives:Thila, Kandu and Lagoon

Diving destinations and diving sites in the Maldives

Ari Atoll
Located in the western part of the Maldives Islands, the Ari Atoll is one of the largest atolls in the Maldives, and as such is home to a wide selection of dive sites, including:

Broken Rock
Gangehi Kandu
Hukrueli Faru (Rangali Madivaru)
Kudarah Thila
Maalhos Thila
Maaya Thila
Mushi Mas Mingili Thila (Fish Head)
Pannettone (Kalhahandi Kandu)

South Male Atoll
The Male Atoll is divided into 2 sections, the North Male Atoll and the South Male Atoll. They are both located on the eastern side of the Maldives. The South Male Atoll is home to a number of tourist resorts and some of the finest scuba diving in the Maldives.

Cocoa Corner (Cocoa Thila)
Guraidhoo Kandu South

North Male Atoll
One of the most developed atolls in terms of hotel and resort development. There are at least 20 resort islands operating in the North Male Atoll. It is also home to some excellent diving spots.

Banana Reef
Kuda Haa

Addu Atoll
The only area in the Maldives that was not affected by the 1998 global coral bleaching.Those who want to dive at Maldives biggest wreck British Loyalty, with large manta rays, eagle rays, sharks, turtles and generally big fish all year around, well be delighted. There are four kandus in the atoll: Gan kandu, Viligili Kandu, Maa Kandu and Kuda Kandu.

Explore here (External link to Wikipedia) for more info on Diving in the Maldives.

Iceland

Iceland, is a Nordic island country between the North Atlantic and the Arctic Ocean. Iceland has some of the most amazing and unique dive & snorkel sites. Diving in Iceland is a challenging but exhilarating activity, mostly because of the cold conditions all year round but it is definitely worth it and will be a memorable experience.

The Silfra rift is one of the best dive sites in the world.

When to Go: Silfra is good year-round. Other sites, April to October.

Cayman Islands, British Overseas Territory

The Cayman Islands are a British Overseas Territory in the western Caribbean Sea. The territory comprises the three islands of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, located south of Cuba and northwest of Jamaica, is known for its beach resorts and varied scuba diving and snorkelling sites.

It provides a great opportunity to see a wide array of saltwater creatures from stingrays to angelfish. It is also known for having good weather condition all year round. Cayman Brac is popular for deep-sea fishing of tuna, marlin and barracuda.

Check some other scuba diving locations and dive sites below.

Other Scuba Diving Destinations

Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Offers more than romance when it comes to its underwater menu. Often called as the “Shark Capital of the Pacific”.

The Islands of Micronesia
Scattered over a large area of the Pacific, the islands of Micronesia offers different kinds of dive experiences.

The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Landing is not permitted on these islands, liveaboards are the only way to tap such awesome experiences.

Semporna Archipelago, Borneo
Located off the coast of the Malaysian state of Sabah, this is where giant sea turtles swim alongside schools of sleek reef sharks, and vertical walls drop thousands of meters from the edge of powder-soft beaches into mysterious blue depths.

Ambergris Caye, Belize
For divers who are looking for a diverse ecosystem, Belize offers a great number of reefs.

Grand Turk, Turk & Caicos
Clear waters and untouched reefs, drop offs and dunes.

Thailand
Thailand, which is known as the “Pearl of the South,” is famous for its marine life teeming coasts. From Phuket to Phi Phi, Krabi and the Similan Islands, Thailand boasts some of the best and most accessible scuba around.

Bonaire, Netherlands Antilles
It stands out among its sister islands Aruba and Caracao for being a spectacular scuba diving destination.

Rocktail Bay, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa
The water in the Maputaland Marine Reserve can be on the cool side, but there are plenty of tropical fish and excellent chances of seeing some really big pelagic species

Malaysia
Malaysia is now a haven for divers eager to see for themselves the wonders of Sipadan and Mabul. Schooling hammerheads, mantas and critters galore all await you here. Malaysia’s only oceanic island is a tiny dot in the South China Sea. Underwater it is a magnet for fish: schools of barracuda, trevally and horse-eye jacks swarm over the reefs.

Bikini Atoll, Marshall Islands
This is shipwreck heaven.

Ambergris Caye, Belize
The main attractions are the Belize Barrier Reef and its beaches. That barrier reef is the second largest in the world, after the Great Barrier Reef of Australia.

Kimbe Bay, Papua New Guinea
Surrounded by deep blue water and quite distant from the nearest reef structure, Bradford acts as a magnet for big fish and pelagics.

The Tiputa Pass, Rangiroa, Polynesia
An island in the Tuamotu archipelago in French Polynesia. It is the second largest atoll in the world. Scuba Diving is breathtakingly fabulous in and around the Tiputa pass, with dolphins, sharks, manta rays and turtles.

References:
Padi.com, Divezone.net, Dive-the-world.com

Some useful links:

Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) - Padi.com (External Link)
Log dives, Share photos, Find buddies, Dive sites, Destinations and more - scubaearth.com (External Link)
Online channel in HD about scuba diving and underwater videos - youdive.tv (External Link)
You can explore here (External Link to wikitravel) if you are looking for the complete list of Scuba diving destinations in the world.
Also Read: 10 most dangerous scuba dives in the world (External Link to theactivetimes)

You can help in editing this post. Please share your thoughts/changes (if required) through comment.

Top 10 Delhi Tourist Attractions

2015-06-18T05:10:00.000-07:00

Below are the lists of top Top 10 Delhi Tourist Attractions
Delhi famous places and the Top Ten list of Delhi attractions

India Gate and Rajpath

Situated along the ceremonial Rajpath avenue in New Delhi, India Gate, popular Delhi attraction is a memorial raised in honour of the Indian soldiers who died during the Afghan wars and World War I. The names of the soldiers who died in these wars are inscribed on the walls.

It is the ceremonial boulevard of the Indian republic that boasts of ornamental parks, pools and gardens alongside. It is here that the much-awaited event of Republic Day Parade takes place on 26th January every year. Rajpath runs through India Gate and Vijay Chowk and has Rashtrapati Bhavan at one end and National Stadium at another. The green lawns at India Gate are a popular evening and holiday rendezvous for young and old alike.

Rashtrapati Bhawan

Rashtrapati Bhawan of Delhi is considered to be the best known monument of India next to glorious Taj Mahal and Qutub Minar. Built with a mix of Western and Indian styles, Rashtrapati Bhavan was originally built for the Governor General of India. Inaugurated in 1931 as the Viceregal Lodge, the name was changed in 1950 after India became a republic.

Birla Mandir
Also called Laxminarayan Temple, the Birla Mandir was built by the Birla family in 1938. Along with the temple itself, the name 'Laxminarayan Temple' encompasses a large garden with fountains behind it. The temple attracts thousands of devotees on Janmashtami day, the birthday of Lord Krishna and is popular Tourist attraction in Delhi.

Akshardham Temple
The Akshardham Mandir is situated in The Akshardham Temple Complex in East Delhi one of the major Delhi attraction. The Akshardham temple is spread in the area of nearly 100 acres on the banks of river Yamuna. Akshardham Temple it is the largest Hindu temple in the world. The complex boasts off an IMAX theatre, a food court, a gallery and an open-air theatre.
Read details about Akshardham temple delhi

Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar at Delhi is a 5 storied tower. Each tower of the famous Qutub Minar has unique designs. The Qutub Minar is located in a Mehrauli in South Delhi. The world famous towering Qutub Minar, started in 1192 by Qutub-ud-din Aibak. The Qutub Complex is a fine example of the Indo-Islamic style of architecture.

The balconies in the tower are supported by exquisite stalactite designs. The tapering tower has pointed and circular flutings on the first storey and star-shaped ones on the second and third stories. The Qutub Minar is also significant for what it represents in the history of Indian culture and is one of the main Delhi tourist attractions.

Red Fort
Red Fort another popular Delhi attractions also known as Lal Quila.The Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, after ruling from Agra for eleven years, decided to shift to Delhi and laid the foundation stone of the Red Fort in 1618. It took nine years to build this mighty citadel and it got completed on 16th April 1648.

The Red Fort Delhi has two main entrances, the Delhi Gate and the Lahori Gate. The main entrance to the Red Fort is through the Lahori Gate. Beyond the gate, there is a roofed passage, flanked by arcaded apartments leading to the palaces, known as Chhatta Chowk. Even today, the Red Fort is an eloquent reminder of the glory of the Mughal Empire.

Chandni Chowk
Chandni Chowk, a main marketplace in Delhi, keeps alive the city's living legacy of Shahjahanabad and is popular Delhi attraction. It is also one of the Delhi famous places. Created by Shah Jahan the builder of Taj Mahal, the old city, with the Red Fort as its focal point and Jama Masjid as the praying centre, has a fascinating market called Chandni Chowk. Legend has it that Shah Jahan planned Chandni Chowk so that his daughter could shop for all that she wanted. The market was divided by canals. The canals are now closed, but Chandni Chowk remains Asia's largest wholesale market.

Across the street from the Red Fort lies Chandni Chowk, an area completely dedicated to shopping, trading and eating. While the Red Fort offers tranquillity, Chandni Chowk is its opposite. It is an enormous area, packed with all sorts of shops, bazaars, people of all kinds.

Lotus Temple
Popularly known as the Lotus Temple, Baha'i Temple is a major feature of Delhi and is well known for its appearance and is one of the main Delhi attractions.

Lotus Temple is one of the remarkable architectures of Bahai faith. It is located at Kalkaji in New Delhi. The temple looks like a lotus flower and is made of marble, cement, dolomite and sand. The temple has no restrictions for visitors and is open to people from all religions. The design looks like a half opened Lotus flower with 27 freestanding "petals" made of marble. The architect, while designing the temple took into account the eternal beauty of Lotus flower.

Old Fort (Purana Qila)
The Old Fort (Purana Qila), another Delhi attraction is a good example of medieval military architecture. Built by Humayun, with later-day modifications by Sher Shah Suri, the Purana Qila is a monument of bold design, which is strong, straightforward, and every inch a fortress.The current entrance is a grandiose red sandstone gate on the western wall. This is called as Bara Darwaza or the main gate. It has a double-storeyed façade that has chhatris (elevated dome shaped pavilions) and a steep ramp. The Qal'a-I-Kunha Masjid and the Sher are two important monuments inside the fort. It was made by Aqeel in 1853.

Humayun's Tomb
The famous Humayun's Tomb of Delhi represents the first of the many monumental Mughal architectural structures. The Humayun's Tomb is one of the fulgurous landmark in the evolution of regal architecture of the Mughal in India.

Humayun's Tomb was built by Humayun's widow, Hamida Banu Begum. Designed by a Persian architect named Mirak Mirza Ghiyas, the structure was begun in 1562 and completed in 1565. The tomb established a standard for all later Mughal monuments, which followed its design, most notably the Taj Mahal. The tomb stands majestically at the center of the enclosure and rises from a platform faced with a series of cells with arched openings. The surrounding of Humayun's Tomb of Delhi is dotted with fountains. During the tourists season you will find the place is crowded with tourists and the street vendors are busy selling various food items to the cheerful public.

Other Delhi famous places and Delhi attractions are:
ISKON Temple Delhi
The ISKCON Temple is another popular Delhi tourist attractions and is located at Sant Nagar, near the East of Kailash locality. It is one of the 40 temples in India that belongs to the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, dedicated to Lord Krishna.

Gurdwara Bangla Sahib
One of the many Gurdwaras in Delhi, Gurdwara Bangla Sahib is the most visited one in the Delhi area.

Salimgarh Fort
Salimgarh Fort, which is now part of Red Fort complex, was constructed on an island of the Yamuna River in 1546. But a gate called the Bahadur Shahi Gate for entry into the Fort from the northern side was constructed only in 1854-55 AD by Bahadur Shah Zafar, the last Mogul ruler of India. The gate was built in brick masonry with moderate use of red sandstone.

Jama Masjid
The Masjid-i-Jahan Numa, commonly known as Jama Masjid, is the principal mosque of Old Delhi. Commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and completed in the year 1656, it is one of the largest and best known mosques in India.

Raj Ghat
On the bank Yamuna River, which flows past Delhi, there is Raj Ghat, the final resting place of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation.

Jantar Mantar
The Jantar Mantar consists of 13 architectural astronomy instruments, built by Maharaja Jai Singh II between 1727 to 1734.

Safdarjung's Tomb
The Safdarjung's Tomb is a garden tomb in a marble mausoleum.

National Museum in New Delhi
The National Museum, New Delhi is the largest museum in India. It holds variety of articles ranging from pre-historic era to modern works of art.

Know About Delhi

2014-11-21T22:57:00.000-08:00

Here is the Delhi Quick Facts About Delhi, the Capital Of India.

About Delhi
Delhi, known locally as Dilli and also by the official name National Capital Territory of Delhi (NCT), is the largest metropolis by area and the second-largest metropolis by population in India.

Delhi was initially a ruling ground of the Mughal Empire. However, in 1803 AD Delhi became a dominion of the British Kingdom and in 1911 the city was acknowledged as the capital of India.

The prime languages in Delhi that are spoken by majority of the city's population comprise of English, Punjabi and Hindi.

Symbolizing the old tradition and heritage of the city, the people of Delhi follow various social customs and celebrate festivals throughout the year. Known for their jovial nature and helping attitude, the people of Delhi are quite popular in the entire country.

Delhi Geography
Delhi is the capital of India. The state is spread over an area of 1483 square kilometer.

The latitudinal and longitudinal location of Delhi are 23.38 degree north and 77.13 degree east. The state stands at the northern part of India. Haryana and Uttar Pradesh are the other states, which share their borders with Delhi in the west and east respectively.

Weather of Delhi
Delhi Weather varies with the different climatic conditions that are faced by this city. Delhi is a city characterized by weather extremes. The geographical location of this city influences the weather conditions of Delhi. Delhi experiences tropical steppe type of climate and hence its seasons are marked with extreme temperatures.

The summer season commences in the month of April and continues till July. On the contrary, winter, which lasts from December to January, is extremely cold. The rainy season in Delhi begins in June and continues almost till October.

Best Time to Visit Delhi
February to March and September to November

Culture of Delhi
Delhi being capital city of India, people from all over the country have come and settled. Therefore, the culture of Delhi represents the culture of all the states of India in parts. In other words, it is a kind of synthesis and reflection of the culture of India, as a whole.

Owing to the migration of people from across the country, Delhi has grown to be a cosmopolitan metropolis. Today Delhi is a major cultural, political, and commercial center of India

Major Tourist Attractions in Delhi
While knowing about Delhi you will like to know tourist attractions. Major tourist attractions in Delhi include Lotus Temple, Dilli Haat, Humayun's Tomb, India Gate, Jama Masjid, Jantar Mantar, Lakshmi Narayan Temple, National Science Center, Parliament House, Purana Quila, Qutab Minar Complex, Rajghat, Rashtrapati Bhavan and Red Fort.

Quick View About Delhi
* Area-1,483kmsq
* Population-13,782,976 (2001 census)
* Density-17.075 million
* District-9
* Prime languages -Hindi, Punjabi, English
* Telephone Code- 011
* Pin Code-110 xxx

Map Of Delhi
Click here to view, Delhi Map on Google Maps

Diverse cultural elements absorbed into the daily life of the city have enriched its character. Exploring the city can be a fascinating and rewarding experience.

Recommended Reading:
Winter Holidays in India
How to Plan a Honeymoon

All About Singapore-Information

2010-11-25T05:10:00.000-08:00

This post on all about Singapore will give you brief descriptions on climate, culture, geography, business, nightlife, shopping, including facts about Singapore and much more. Also check useful links to explore more Singapore information, maps, and images.

All About Singapore

About Singapore

Lying almost on the equator, Singapore is not just one island but a main island with 63 surrounding islets. Singapore, officially the Republic of Singapore, is an island country off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, 137 kilometres (85 mi) north of the equator, in Southeast Asia. It is separated from Malaysia by the Straits of Johor to its north, and from Indonesia's Riau Islands by the Singapore Strait to its south.

Singapore is the world's fourth leading financial centre and a cosmopolitan world city, playing a key role in international trade and finance. The port of Singapore is one of the five busiest ports in the world.

Brief Singapore Information
Singapore Climate info
Temperature ranges from 24o to 32o C (75-89o F) with an average daily maximum relative humidity of 84.3%. Rain falls all year round but is most abundant from November to January. The wettest months are November to January, the driest May to July. Rainfall occurs mostly as sudden showers. The good thing is: you can expect to enjoy sunshine almost the whole year round.
The temperature averages around:
*28°C (84°F) daytime, 23°C (76°F) at night in December and January.
*32°C (90°F) daytime, 26°C (81°F) at night for the rest of the year.

Economy
Singapore has a free market economy, with a stable prices, low inflation rate, and a high per capital GDP. The economy was traditionally driven by its strengths in electronics and manufacturing, oil refining and distribution, and shipbuilding and repair. Today, it is increasingly fuelled by its growing services sector.

About Singapore Culture
Due to its diverse population and immigrant background, Singaporean culture has often been described as a mix of cultures – British, Malay, Chinese, Indian and Peranakan. Foreigners also make up 42% of the population in Singapore and they play an important role in influencing Singaporean culture .

Media
Singapore's media sector covers broadcasting, film and video, publishing, music, online and mobile media, games and animation. As advancements in digital technology continue to shape the future of entertainment, Singapore has its eye on developing new media infrastructure and services.

Business
Singapore is, simply, a great place to do business. With a highly-skilled workforce and a regulatory environment Singapore is Hub for Business. It enjoys strong reputation as a global financial centre, with a top-rated banking system.

Living in Singapore
Singapore info on living: Singapore has one of the highest living standards. Living conditions in Singapore are amongst the best in Asia with state-of-the art facilities for education, shopping, sports and recreation Daily necessities and luxuries are readily available.

Sport and recreation
Favorite’s Singaporean sports include outdoor sports such as football, basketball, cricket, swimming, sailing and various indoor sports such as table tennis and badminton.

Infrastructure
About Singapore info on Infrastructure:-Singapore has world-class infrastructure and state-of-the art facilities are well-known to the world. The famous Changi Airport, constantly ranked by travellers as the best airport. On-island transportation is a breeze with a clean, affordable and well-connected public transport system, including its Mass Rapid Transit network. Singapore communications network, top-of-the-line infrastructure links the nation to the rest of the world.

Information on Singapore Shopping
Singapore is an excellent place for shopping and has over 250 shopping malls to visit. Ranging from hi-tech wares to designer wear, there is something for everyone. Famous shopping centers in Singapore are Orchard, Marina, Suntec City, Little India, Chinatown, Holland Village, Parkway Parade.

Singapore Nightlife Brief Info
After hours, Singapore practically transforms itself from an ever-so-efficient business hub to a buzzing network of bars and nightclubs. The Night Life in Singapore is very interesting and refreshing if you visit the Night Clubs in Singapore. The Night-Clubs of Singapore are some of the best spots for boozing and partying through the night. Pubbing and clubbing at Singapore is a must if you want to feel the night-pulse of the city.

Events
Singapore holds numerous events each year. Some of its famous festivals and events include the Singapore Food Festival, the Singapore Grand Prix, the Singapore Arts Festival, the Chingay Parade, the World Gourmet Summit and ZoukOut.

Get around in Singapore
Getting around Singapore is effortless: the public transportation system is among the best in the world and taxis are reasonably priced.

Nature and wildlife:
Popular tourist attractions are Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, Jurong Bird Park and the Botanical Gardens are all in the North and West. City parks full of locals jogging or doing tai chi can be found everywhere.

Restaurants in Singapore
Singapore offers a wide variety of full-service restaurants as well, catering to every taste and budget.

Medical care
The standard of medical care in Singapore is uniformly excellent and Singapore is a popular destination for medical tourism (and medical evacuations) in the region. Despite the lower prices, standards are often as good as those in the West at both public and private clinic

Quick - Singapore Information

Full country name :-Republic of Singapore
Capital :-Singapore
Area :-704 sq km (252 sq mi)
Currency :- Singapore dollar (SGD)
Language :- English, Malay, Chinese (Mandarin), and Tamil.(English is the most dominant language in Singapore)
Religion :-Buddhists, Christians, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, Taoists and many other religious groups.
Internet TLD :-.sg
Calling code for Singapore :- +65
Time zone :-SST (UTC+8)

Singapore information while traveling can help you to explore the various cultural precincts, beautiful places, and religious landmarks around the island and get acquainted with Singapore’s multicultural society. Whether you join a tour or discover your own Singapore, you’ll be sure to catch a glimpse of the impressive history, cultural diversity and lifestyles of Singaporeans during your visit.

It is also takes pride in its world class hotels with complete amenities that would totally give you complete comfort and relaxation. Today, Singapore is rapidly taking its place among the world’s premier global cities, where talents from all around the world gather to share innovative ideas and start new businesses.

Below are few useful links which you may like to check for more info on Singapore:

*View Singapore Map here (External link to Google Map)
*Explore here (External link to Flickr) for Singapore images
* Know detail info here (External link to wikipedia) about Singapore

All About Goa Information

2010-05-16T12:51:00.000-07:00

All About Goa
Below is the information on Goa. Learn all about Goa info, for vacation in Goa

About Goa
Goa is India smallest state by area and the fourth smallest by population. Panaji is the state's capital, while Vasco da Gama is the largest city.

Goa Information
Goa, is split into two districts - North Goa and South Goa.

North Goa includes the capital city of Panjim, the former capital of Old Goa, Fort Aguada and Candolim, Chapora, Vagator, and the beaches Calangute, Anjuna, and Baga.

South Goa includes Vasco da Gama, Bogmalo, Margao, Colva and Benolem. The beaches such as Dona Paula, Calangute, Anjuna, Colva, Miramar, and Vagator can be compared with the best beaches around the world.

Goa is popular for its beaches, places of worship and world heritage architecture, Goa is visited by large numbers of international and domestic tourists each year.

Getting Around in Goa
Depending on your budget, you can choose to explore Goa in various ways. Hire a cab to take you around the city. Motorcycles can be hired to explore the city or you can choose to ride along as a pillion on a motorcycle taxi. Buses also connect various cities within Goa. Autorickshaws are another option to travel within the city.

Climate Information Goa:
* Summer: 26 °C - 33 °C (Peak Summer Months - Mid March to End of June)
* Winter: 20 °C - 31 °C (Peak Winter Months - Late November to Mid February)
* Monsoon: 350 cm (from June to Late September)

Best Time to Visit Goa
Tourist season is from October to December and from May to June.

Quick Overview & Facts About Goa
*About Goa location: Goa is located on the western coast of the Indian peninsula. It is separated from Maharashtra in the north, Karnataka in the south, the Western Ghats in the east, and the Arabian Sea in the west by the Terekhol River.
*Capital of Goa: Panaji or Panjim is the capital of Goa.

*About Largest city in Goa: Vasco da Gama
*Liberation Day of Goa: December 17.
*Statehood Day of Goa: May 30.
*Languages of Goa: Along with English which is widely spoken all over Goa, Konkani and Marathi are the state languages. The national language Hindi is also well understood in most areas around the state.
*Area of Goa: 3,702 square kms.
*Official Language of Goa: Konkani.
*Telephone Code of Goa: The national code is 0832; when dialing internationally it is done as +91 832
*How to reach Goa: Flights, Roadways, Railways

*Near Getaways of Goa Information: The two major gateway cities to Goa are Mumbai, Maharashtra and Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Maps of Goa:
Check here (external link to Google Map) to view Map of Goa

Goa is known for its virgin beaches, Gothic churches, whitewashed chapels, crumbling forts.Palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves, ferry rides, and bubbly folk music are some of the things that make Goa the paradise for tourists.

Top 10 Places in Australia to Visit

2010-02-14T12:39:00.000-08:00

Australia has a number of interesting destinations, sites, beaches in Australia and a unique culture that should be explored. Popular places in Australia to visit range from the islands that are found near the mainland Australia to the desert area known for its bushes, trees, and wilderness. Australia is home to a number of exotic animal and bird species and therefore it is not surprising to see such a huge number of national parks in Australia. Australia's coastline is home to a great number of beaches and bays that offer some of the best water sporting facilities.

Here is ten of the must see places around Australia that you can consider for your next holiday. This list of Top 10 places to visit in Australia will also help you with your itinerary planning. Check below the Top ten places to visit in Australia

Top 10 Places to visit in Australia
Popular Places in Australia to visit
*Perth
Perth has a range of attractions and activities to enjoy from sight-seeing, wildlife up close, Aboriginal culture and dance, to aquatic fun and adventure. It is one of the most popular place to visit in Australia. Attractions and places to visit in Perth, Australia in the Perth include King's Park, Perth Zoo, the Perth Mint, Stirling Gardens, Lake Monger, the Art Gallery of Western Australia, Western Australian Museum, Concert Hall, Cultural Centre, His Majestys Theatre and the Institute of Contemporary Arts., Burswood Casino.

*Adelaide

Adelaide is the capital and most populous city of the Australian state of South Australia, and is the fifth-largest city in Australia. Adelaide is a thriving city that includes some of the most prestigious vineyards in the country.

There are a number of places around the city that are ideal for getting away from it all for a few days, as well as enjoying a night life that is low key but very active. Close to Adelaide are the Adelaide Hills with national parks and reserves. To the west is Adelaide 's coastline with beaches and seaside suburbs.

*Tasmania
Tasmania has long been considered one of the most popular places to visit in Australia. It is the place where you go to escape the rat race of over populated cities, the place where nature and wilderness meets, and the place where convict history and Tasmanian culture come together to form a rich and diverse story. Tasmania offers breathtaking scenery, hiking and camping. Nice cities with excellent infra structure to visitors. The nature is the highlight, with spectacular beaches.

* Sydney
Here is the world renowned Opera House. Destinations such as the Hunter Valley Wineries, Blue Mountains or Sydney dinner cruise through the famous harbor are very affordable. Other Places in Sydney, Australia to visit include the Harbour Highlights Cruise, Jenolan Caves, and the Outback Snapshot. Don't forget to stop at the marine aquarium at Darling Harbor to be absolutely amazed with their large collection of marine wildlife.

*Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef
Cairns is the main entry point and from there you can travel north or south and out to beautiful island resorts. Luxury holiday homes are a great accommodation option in this part of Australia.
Home to colorful marine life the Great Barrier Reef, located in Cairns, Queensland's most northerly city is one of the natural wonders of the world. The Great Barrier Reef is known as the world's largest coral reef. Listed as a World Heritage Site, the Great Barrier Reef is a premier holiday destination in Australia. Many varieties of fish and other forms of sea life make the Reef home, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn about and observe.

*The Great Ocean Road
Enjoy the view from the Great Ocean Road. Running for over two hundred miles along the coastline in the area of Victoria, the view is breathtaking any time of the year. There are plenty of interesting local restaurants to try along the way, as well as several great places to stop and enjoy a beer.

*Fraser Island and Gold Coast
Fraser Island is the world's largest sand island. Once a major immigrant and industrial port encompassing much of the area now marketed by tourism authorities as the Fraser Coast, the island is a growing hub for eco tourism. The unique sand dunes system, the rainforests on sand and the beautiful fresh water Lakes all add charm to the allure of the Fraser Island making it a hot holiday destination for people all over the world. Gold Coast is major attraction for surfers and beach lovers.

*Kakadu National Park
One of the most beautiful National Parks in Australia with plenty of wild life and variety of native plants. The Kakadu National Park is a natural marvel encompassing a variety of habitats, a mass of wildlife and significant rock-art sites.

*Magnetic Island
It is home to great colonies of kangaroos and koalas. Located near the town of Townsville, Queensland, and the Great Barrier Reef, Magnetic Island is famous for its great beaches.

*Uluru
Consisting of mineral rich sandstone, Uluru measures 2.4km (1.5 miles) long and 1.6km (1 mile) wide, and is one of earth's great natural wonders. Also known as the Ayers Rock, resting in the middle of the Australian continent lies the imposing monolithic sandstone structure of the Uluru, a major tourist attraction of the region. Uluru is considered to be an ideal activity at sunrise and sunset, when the range of colors across the red rock seems to waver and change in fascinating patterns.

There is so much to see and do in this amazing country. Hope this guide on most popular places to visit in Australia, will be helpful in planning your Australia Trip. Australia has something for just about everyone. From simple holidays to culture filled excitement, there are all sorts of options to enjoy.

Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations in India

2010-02-01T01:12:00.000-08:00

After tying the knot, couple wants to relax and enjoy sometime together, away from others. It is also the time when the newly married couple gets to know each other better. Honeymoon destination must be special to celebrate the memorable occasion of being together Check below some top honeymoon destinations in India.

Top ten honeymoon destinations in India

Goa

Colva beach, Goa | Photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons

Goa (Land of Sun, Sand and Sea), one of the most popular romantic destinations and one of the top honeymoon destinations in India. The setting sun, miles upon miles of golden sand, coconut palms playing with the wind. This is the charm of Goa. It is the perfect place for togetherness. Multi-cuisine restaurant, clean and secluded beaches make Goa an ideal setting for romance and relaxation. The lush natural beaches, excellent infrastructure and facilities, warm and welcoming people - all add to the special magic of Goa.

The Palolem beach of goa is the most attractive beach. Tourists love to visit this place and have fun sunbathing or fishing trips. No wonder this tourist destination is one of the most preferred honeymoon couple spots. Goa gives the opportunity to newlyweds to savor it their way and to keep its landscape etched in their heart forever. Just get in to the celebration with the combination of pristine beaches, scenic views, warm weather and luxurious lifestyle in the land of pearls

Ooty

Located on the Nilgiri hills and surrounded by blue mist, Ooty is probably the most celebrated honeymoon spot and one the top 10 honeymoon destinations in India. It promises you a very romantic honeymoon. There are lots of attractions in the town and around it. Places you must visit include the Botanical Garden, Rose Garden, Ooty Lake, Dodabetta peak. Plethora of beautiful flowers on the hilly slopes, splendid tea and cardamom plantation and mist covered mountains indeed make Ooty a very romantic place.

The abundant flowers, lushy vegetation and majestic hills add charm to this quaint hill-station. Ooty is perfect place for couples who like to be in the lap of nature.

Shimla

Shimla is one of the most popular and another top honeymoon destinations in India. The moment you enter, you’ll be greeted with salubrious climate, and picturesque green hills with snow peaks surrounded by thick forests of fir, pine and oak making it a favorite among honeymoon couples.

It is one of the most famous hill stations and has been attracting Honeymooners for quite a long time now. Most attractive feature of Shimla is its salubrious climate that is very conducive to for a romantic holiday. Shimla has plenty to offer trekking enthusiasts as well as those looking for easy hikes and scenic drive. You can view some of the most beautiful mountainscapes and flower-filled meadows in Shimla. A drive around Shimla will take you to rustic villages, river gorge, temples and pastures. Exploring Shimla with your beloved will add zing to your romantic holiday.

Srinagar

The lush valleys, sparkling lakes, high mountains and beautiful scenery make Srinagar a tempting place for honeymooners. Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir, a very popular honeymoon destination. It is a perfect place to start you life in the wonderful company of your partner.

Snow peaks stare at you from the horizon. Scenery is simply spell binding. Beautiful lakes, charming rivers, lofty glaciers, and pleasant weather throughout the year make it an ideal destination for newly weds. A holiday in this paradise, glittering in nature’s beauty will linger in the minds of the visitors for long. The house boats of the Dal Lake are the biggest attraction and "Shikara" rides in the lake are a symbol of romance worldwide.

Coorg

Coorg, also Known as Kodagu, is an excellent honeymoon destination in south India. Lush green, serene, scenic and devoid of city chaos Coorg is a virtual heaven for those seeking some private time in the lap of nature. Honeymooning in the intoxicating and invigorate beauty of Coorg would be a wise choice if a secluded getaway is what the couple is looking for. The orange orchards, the refreshing aroma of coffee and acres of verdant greenery is ideally suited for a cozy honeymoon.

Sprawling in the midst of cloud-wreathed hills, this misty town is a haven for walkers. Coorg can be visited around the year owing to its pleasant weather. There are some hill resorts that cater to the special needs of honeymoon travelers. Some of the suggested places to visit would include the Madikeri fort, Harangi Dam, Bhagamandala, Irupu Falls, minarets of Dodoveearaja, Abbi falls and many of the famous temples.

Darjeeling

In the refreshing hilly air of Darjeeling, acres of tea plantation will offer you a majestical and cherishable honeymoon like no other destination. Lying in the eastern state of West Bengal the city offers the cool and chilly weather of Himalayas.

Darjeeling promise young couples green picturesque hills and bubbling waterfalls and is the top honeymoon destinations of India. Walking in the sloppy tea estates and terraced farms could be one of the most memorable things after this Whether you prefer to relax, adventure or savor the flora and fauna of this region, Darjeeling is really a traveler delight. River rafting and canoeing are also widespread in Darjeeling apart from mountaineering and trekking.

Rajasthan

Rajasthan is one of the most historic destinations of India, it has so much history and huge palaces that make it a class apart from the rest. You can enjoy elephant back rides, camel rides, Rajput style water gardens, historical forts, moonlit boat ride and much more.

Most popular honeymoon destinations in Rajasthan include cities like Jaipur, Pushkar, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Mount Abu, Barmer and Mandawa.

Udaipur, the lake city, is the most romantic place to visit in Rajasthan.
Mount Abu the only hill station in Rajasthan has everything that the newly wed would like to experience. The area is the coolest when compared to the neighboring states both Rajasthan and Gujrat.
Bikaner is a romantic tourist destination in Rajasthan state. This historical city consists of religious shrines, beautiful forts and castles.

Rajasthan is the land that breathes both romance and chivalry in an exceptionally traditional way. It has the most pictorial scenes that are worth viewing. Catch the lovely sunrise on the sand dunes with your partner at your side and experience the royal Rajputana heritage that can be cherished for a lifetime.

Kerala

Today Kerala, a state in south India is best known as ayurveda centre, backwaters destination and a honeymoon’s paradise. Kerala is also known as the “Gods Own Country” is one of the top ten honeymoon destinations of India. It is one of the most beautiful parts of india where the natural beauty will not only amaze you it will sweep you off your feet.

It is a perfect destination for vacations Honeymoon, art, culture, tradition, health care, yoga, ayurveda and meditation. Kerala is famous for its natural beauty, amazing beaches, delicious sea food and backwaters. Backwaters - a unique web of lakes, lagoons, canals and rivers - are an integral part of Kerala's Tourism Scenario. You can also stay in the houseboats and enjoy your honeymoon in Kerala in a traditional style.

Attractions in Kerala
* Lakes
* Shimmering Backwaters - a sight cherished by lovers
* Verdant Green Hill Stations - to freshen you up
* Secluded Beaches- a perfect romantic spot
* Friendly people- to help you
* Top facilities for your accommodation

All these ingredients make up Kerala a prefect romantic vacation spot.

Kovalam is a beach town on the Arabian Sea in Kerala, a state in south India. It is located around 13 km from downtown Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum). With natural beauty at its best, planning your honeymoon in Kovalam is no brainer. Rows of swaying coconut trees are lined along the sandy beaches of Kovalam. With its expertise in ayurvedic techniques over centuries, town makes sure you pamper yourself and leave in the pink of health. Natural and romantic surrounding will surely make your moment with your loved one captivating and delightful.

Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep is the smallest union territory of India, is a group of islands 200 to 300 km off of the coast of Keralam in the Laccadive Sea.

The pristine coral paradise of Lakshadeep with a tinge of bluish-green waters is an exotic archipelago in the Arabian Sea. Lakshadweep Islands lives up to the expectation as the best honeymoon destinations in India. The most romantic place to stay at Lakshadweep would be the beach cottages. The beaches of this wonder world amidst the sound of the roaring waves, the rustling sound of the swaying palm tree, and the amazing marine life makes this island most preferred romantic gateway.
The adventurous sports along with a wonderful combination of scenic splendor adds a special dimension to the island Lakshadweep. Soak your souls in the tranquil beauty of nature and make the most of the romantic ambience.

Manali

Located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is an ancient town surrounded by snow capped peaks and close in proximity to the snowline. It has a flourishing orchard industry and is a popular destination for adventure sport enthusiasts, campers, trekkers as well as honeymooners. About 550 km from Delhi, the capital of India, Manali offers visitors some amazing natural sites like hot water springs , waterfalls and the river Beas that runs right through. Apart from those there are beautiful temples scattered across the place and the city center has a monastery as well as some good shopping and eateries to enjoy. . If you want to mix romance with a spice of adventure then this is the ideal destination for a couple who wants to spend time together.

Hope the above list top 10 honeymoon destinations India, will be helpful. There are many other romantic destinations in India, choices always depends on what you like.

Other popular honeymoon destinations in India

Agra

Agra in Uttar Pradesh state is famous for one of the eight wonders of world the Taj Mahal. Anyone who is on a travel spree his trip would be incomplete without the visit to the most elegant Taj Mahal. This is one of the must see places list of India, the eternal symbol of love.

Mahabhaleshwar

A tourist destination situated near Mumbai. With strawberry gardens to allure you this will take you into the This picturesque hill station, also known as the Queen of Maharashtra's hill stations, is located in the Western Ghats

Nainital

Nanital promises a typical honeymoon in a romantic hill station. Pleasant weather, enchanting lakes, lovely scenery and cozy boat rides make it a preferred destination.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The emerald islands can be another choice as a honeymoon spot. There are a lot of places in Andaman and Nicobar that you would like to visit. Three of the most romantic here are Mount Harriet, Viper Island, Ross Island.

Useful tips while deciding honeymoon destinations in India
Contact your near travel agent and ask for details according to your budget and choices. You can also ask for further information about the locations mentioned above.

Other Recommended Reading:
About Delhi

Scuba Diving History

2010-01-29T02:53:00.000-08:00

This post is about the history of scuba diving.

A history of a word Scuba

The term SCUBA (an acronym for Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus) arose during World War II, and originally referred to United States combat frogmen's oxygen rebreathers, developed by Dr. Christian Lambertsen for underwater warfare.
It is now usually thought of as a regular word—scuba. It has become acceptable to refer to "scuba equipment" or "scuba apparatus".

Today, the term has come to refer to diving in general and the open circuit breathing system in use today.

Also Read: What is Scuba Diving

Early Scuba Diving History

Early diving relied exclusively on air pumped from the surface, scuba divers carry their own source of breathing gas (usually compressed air), allowing them greater freedom than with an air line.

Looking back to early history of scuba diving, during the 16th and 17th century, innovators developed a diving-bell that holds compressed air within the device. By the 18th century, compressing air into a container able to withstand high pressure was developed. Trapped air was compressed in oak barrels, carried by divers. During this time, waterproof diving suits were also made by placing grease on leather. By the next century, helmets were used in diving. The helmets were linked to a tube taking in air above water. It was also during this time that diving suits were matched with helmets, although the head gear was joined to the suit with straps. After a decade, rubber suits and helmets were sealed to make the equipment airtight.

The invention of underwater technology

History of scuba diving equipment invention. By the 1930's, the basic equipment of scuba diving mask, scuba diving fins and snorkel were widely used. Rubber goggles with glass lenses were developed by Guy Gilpatric in 1930. Scuba fins, or "swimming propellers," as they were referred to, were patented by Louis de Corlieu in 1933.

In1943 when Jacques-Yves Cousteau and Emile Gagnan redesign and test the first "aqualung," or open air circuit, we use today. This allowed divers to receive compressed air on the slightest intake of breath.

The first wetsuit was introduced by researchers at the University of California in 1956. The first wetsuits were made by Edco.

Scuba Diving History refers that in the 1970, scuba equipment continued to evolve and the typical scuba system was enhanced by buoyancy compensation vests, better valves and submersible pressure gauges. Through the 1980's and 1990's, scuba as a recreational sport became a multi-billion dollar industry with its popularity prompting even more innovation in the design and the engineering of better, safer, lighter, more comfortable equipment. This invention revolutionizes the sport of diving.

Today, scuba diving is accessible to almost anyone with only a modest investment in equipment. Anywhere you want to dive you can usually find a dive shop to buy or on rent.

The history of scuba diving suggests that scuba diving developed out of man's drive to survive and learn more about life underwater. With new technology, the reasons for wanting to breath underwater diversified. Initially, this was considered as a profession and source of livelihood. Then this became viewed as a scientific research exploration before becoming a recreational activity.

Also Read:Top 10 Scuba Diving Destinations in the World

About What is Scuba Diving

2010-01-06T03:44:00.000-08:00

All the basics information, meaning about scuba diving

What is Scuba Diving?
Let us start about scuba diving meaning
The word Scuba is actually an acronym for Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus. Scuba diving is swimming underwater using SCUBA. Using a cylinder of compressed gas to breathe (usually air, but sometimes other gases), scuba divers can stay underwater much longer than would be possible by just holding their breath - for hours or even days. It may be done for recreation, industrial or commercial purposes.

Scuba diving commonly refers to two things.
First, as the activity of diving under water with the aide of a breathing apparatus and swimming gear. As an activity, scuba diving has been generally categorised into skin diving and free diving.
Second, as the equipment used in swimming underwater. As an underwater diving equipment, SCUBA, an open-circuit apparatus allowing the user to breath air contained in a tank, placed over the back of divers.

Scuba diving developed out of man's drive to survive and learn more about life underwater. With new technology, the reasons for wanting to breath underwater diversified. Initially, this was considered as a profession and source of livelihood. Then this became viewed as a scientific research exploration before becoming a recreational activity.

Why is scuba diving popular?
Let us know about scuba diving popularity
Over two-thirds of the planet is covered by water. The allure and mystery of the underwater world has inspired the human imagination since prehistory, from the mythological monsters described by seafaring people, to the science fiction of Jules Verne and the modern underwater adventures in Hollywood films. Breath-hold diving, dangerous though it can be, has been used to collect pearls, sponges and valuable commodities from the sea floor for many generations.
Advances in underwater exploration began nearly three centuries ago using diving bells and large cumbersome sealed suits using pumped air from the surface. Only very recently advances in technology and mechanics have allowed people to visit this domain safely for exploration using comfortable, self-contained air delivery systems.

For some it is the beauty of the reef and the marine life that inhabits it, for others it's the thrill of discovery deep inside a wreck or cave - everyone has a different reason for scuba diving, but most would agree that it is for the sheer enjoyment of experiencing the underwater world, a world so far removed from ours that it will truly amaze you. Whether you want to relax while photographing brightly colored tropical fish, be thrilled by the power and grace of a school of sharks, or make a living working underwater, scuba diving has it all.

Types of Scuba Diving
There are many types of scuba diving which means there's always something new to do and see. The most popular types of diving are mentioned below:

*Recreational diving
Recreational diving or sport diving is a type of diving that uses SCUBA equipment for the purpose of leisure and enjoyment. In some diving circles, the term "recreational diving" is used in contradistinction to "technical diving", a more demanding aspect of the sport which requires greater levels of training, experience and equipment. After Open Water certification you can complete courses in all sorts of specialties including, but not limited to: night diving, wreck diving, deep diving, navigation, fish identification, underwater naturalism, photography, videography, cave diving, ice diving, altitude diving, and rescue diving.

*Technical diving
Technical diving, also referred to as Tec diving is a form of scuba diving that exceeds the scope of recreational diving. Technical divers require advanced training, extensive experience and often breathe breathing gases other than air or standard nitrox. Technical dive encompasses areas such as extreme deep diving, advanced wreck diving, and advanced cave diving. Technical diving is for very experienced recreational divers and requires specialised training and equipment.

*Commercial Diving
Commercial divers dive for a living. They build underwater structures such as oil platforms, fish farm maintenance, carry out underwater maintenance, conduct surveys, create maps, carry underwater welding, participate in salvage operations, and work in many other diving related occupations.

* Military and Naval diving
Military diving covers all types of diving carried out by military personnel. Military diving is similar to commercial diving but also involves such tasks as underwater surveillance, mine clearing, and military research. Military divers and scientists have historically been responsible for most advances in dive equipment and dive medicine.

Naval diving is the military term for commercial diving, and is drastically different from military diving. Naval divers work to support maintenance and repair operations on ships and military installations.

*Police diving
Police divers are normally police officers who have been trained in the use of diving techniques to recover evidence and occasionally bodies from rivers, canals and the sea. They may also be employed in searching shipping for contraband substances fitted to the outside of hulls to avoid detection. The equipment they use depends on requirements, but the requirement for communications at some sites does often require the use of full-face masks with communication equipment, either with SCUBA or surface supplied equipment.

Below are the various Types of Scuba Diving
(Words in Bold below - Classification)

aquarium maintenance in large public aquariums - commercial, scientific
boat and ship inspection, cleaning and maintenance - commercial, naval
cave diving technical- recreational
civil engineering in harbors, water supply - commercial
crude oil industry - commercial
demolition and salvage of ship wrecks - commercial, naval
diver training for reward - professional
fish farm maintenance - commercial
fishing, e.g. for abalones, crabs, lobsters, pearls - commercial
frogman, manned torpedo - military
harbor clearance and maintenance - commercial, military
media diving: making television programs, etc. - professional
mine clearance and bomb disposa- military, naval
pleasure, leisure, sport- recreational
underwater photography - professional, recreational
policing: diving to investigate - police diving, military, naval
search and recovery diving - commercial
spear fishing - recreational
stealthy infiltration - military
marine biology - scientific, recreational
underwater tourism - recreational
underwater archaeology- scientific, recreational
underwater welding - commercial

Reference of diving types: wikipedia (External Link Here)

Scuba diving is about a sport that is practiced recreationally all around the world and can even be a profession. There are many diving jobs such as recreational dive master and instructor, commercial diver, police diver, scientific diver, and military diver.

Akshardham Temple Delhi

2009-12-28T02:00:00.000-08:00

Akshardham in Delhi

"The Akshardham temple, carved by 7,000 sculptors out of pink sandstone and white marble, is beautiful in the way that all elaborately ornate things are beautiful."

About Akshardham
Akshardham means the eternal, divine abode of the supreme God, the abode of eternal values and virtues of Akshar as defined in the Vedas and Upanishads where divine bhakti, purity and peace forever pervades.

Akshardham is a Hindu temple complex in Delhi, India. Also referred to as Delhi Akshardham or Swaminarayan Akshardham, the complex displays centuries of traditional Indian and Hindu culture, spirituality, and architecture. The building was inspired and moderated by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual head of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha, whose 3,000 volunteers helped 7,000 artisans construct Akshardham.

For the first time ever in the world witness the heritage of India in all its facets, insights and beauty at the Swaminarayan Akshardham through its mandir, exhibitions, verdant gardens and other attractions.

Akshardham Temple - Delhi
Akshardham Temple in Delhi has an important place in Delhi tourism. The structure depicts great Indian culture and its architecture is simply immaculate. This amazing structure of Akshardham Delhi, India comprises of 20,000 statues, floral motifs and exquisite carved pillars made of stones. This beautiful structure and masterpiece architecture was built under the support and funding of the Bochasanvasi Aksharpurushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS).

It is built along the river Yamuna and lies over an area of around 100 acres with beautiful gardens, water fountains and carved pavilions.

The main monument, of depicting ancient Indian “vastu shastra” and architecture, is a masterpiece in pink sandstone and white marble that is 141 feet high, 316 feet wide and 370 feet long with 234 ornate pillars, over 20,000 sculptures and statues of deities, eleven 72-foot-high huge domes and decorative arches.

Swaminarayan Akshardham, Delhi complex features a large central monument crafted entirely of stone, exhibitions on incidents from the life of Swaminarayan and the history of India, an IMAX feature, a musical fountain, and large landscaped gardens.

Visitor information Akshardham Temple Delhi
Location: NH 24, Noida Mor, New Delhi, India
State: Delhi
Year of Construction: 2005
Specialty: The structure is spread over 100 depicting Indian culture, history, art, values.

What is Akshardham Temple Delhi Timings?
Akshardham Delhi timings
April to September:
Complex: 10.00 am to 7.00 pm
Exhibitions: 11.00 am to 6.30 pm
Musical Fountain: 7.30 pm
October to March:
Complex: 9.00 am to 6.00 pm
Exhibitions:10.00 am to 5.30 pm
Musical Fountain: 6.30 pm
Akshardham Temple In Delhi is opened from -Tuesday to Sunday.
(The entire Swaminarayan Akshardham Complex is closed on Mondays)
Night Lighting: On Saturdays, Sundays.
Souvenir Shop: 9:00 am to 8:00 pm

Time needed to view Akshardham in Delhi
Main Mandir and Gardens: One and a half hours
Hall of Values, Boat Ride and Theatre: Approx. 3 hours.

Entry info on Akshardham in Delhi:
Entry into the Swaminarayan Akshardham Delhi Complex is Free.
Entry to the Mandir and Gardens is Free.
Tickets Needed: To view the Exhibitions and shows organized in the temple.

Restriction while visiting Delhi Akshardham
NOT ALLOWED:
Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking, tobacco, alcohol and drugs are not allowed in the complex.

Mobile Phones, Cameras
Cameras, video cameras, mobile phones or any electronic items are not allowed inside the complex.

Food
Visitors are not allowed to carry food inside the premises of ure, fresh vegetarian food and snacks are available at Premvati Food Court. The restaurant caters to a wide variety of traditional dishes and delicacies, both cold and hot.

Pets
No pets are allowed in the complex.

Imp:
Please view for any changes in Akshardham Delhi Timings and other informations here ( External Link to Official Site of Akshardham Temple Delhi )

Akshardham Temple Delhi map – Know how to reach there
Check Map Link here ( External Link to Google Map )
Recommended Reading:
About Delhi
Winter Holidays in India

Top Beaches in Australia

2009-11-14T13:24:00.000-08:00

Discover Australia's best beach destinations.

There are an awful lot of beaches in Australia and most of them are deserted. Australia boasts some of the best beaches on the planet and the huge coastline stretches for nearly 37,000 km. Most of Australia's cities and towns are situated on the coast, within a few kilometres of the ocean, which amounts to 85% of Australia's population living within one hour's drive of the coastline. The following are some of the Australia beaches;

Top Beaches in Australia - Australian Beach Guide
Cottesloe Beach (Perth , Western Australia)
Perth’s Cottesloe Beach is one of the city's most popular places for swimming, snorkelling and surfing. Here, towering Norfolk pines line a boulevard buzzing with cafes and pubs. Enjoy an early-morning breakfast beside the Indian Ocean, or a refreshing sunset beer at the pub. At Cottesloe, the clean, clear coastline and smooth terraced lawns are filled with locals who flock here to enjoy the sun. This long, wide beach is great for games, surfing, and sunbathing. Sunday drinking sessions at “The Cott” are famous throughout the country

Cape Tribulation Beach
Cape Tribulation Beach is located in Northern Queensland. Relax here in the crystal blue waters and fine white sand and let the day’s pass you by. This is where the jungle meets the water and paradise is born. Cape Tribulation Beach is located on the northern side of the Cape Tribulation headland and is the most sheltered location when the south east trade winds are blowing.

Cable Beach (Broome, Western Australia)
Cable Beach in Broome, is situated 7 km from town along a good bitumen road. Cable Beach is home to one of Australia's most famous and best beaches in the world. This beach is so big, you’ll always find room for yourself and the water is bathtub warm. The beach itself is 22.5 km long with beautiful white sand washed clean daily by tides that can reach over nine metres. The water is crystal clear turquoise, and the gentle swells hardly manage to topple over as they roll up onto the almost perfectly flat beach. Sunset camel rides operate daily along the beach.

Bondi Beach (Sydney)
Bondi Beach is a popular beach and the name of the surrounding suburb in Sydney, Australia. The place to be seen, Bondi beach is famous all over for the hard bodies it attracts. This one kilometer beach can get kind of crowded but this a must see stop for any trip to Sydney. Catch some rays with locals and cool off with the surfers. Watch out for the rip current as it can be deadly. Signs are posted and lifeguards are always on duty.

Surfer Paradise (Gold Coast)
Surfers Paradise is a suburb on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia. Surfer’s Paradise is a great beach to meet locals and travelers a like. It’s wide, beautiful, and the water’s nice and warm. The waves here are also great for surfing. Surfer’s is a definite party spot and for those looking to mix their beach activities with some social activities.

Whitehaven Beach (Whitsunday Islands)
Whitehaven Beach is a 6 km stretch along the Whitsunday Island. Whitehaven is the masterpiece of the Whitsunday islands. Located on a deserted island and nearly four miles long, this stretch of sand will have asking people to pinch you. No one walks away disappointed.

Bells Beach (Victoria)
Bells Beach is a coastal locality of Victoria, Australia in Surf Coast Shire and an internationally famous surf beach, located 100 km south-west of Melbourne, on the Great Ocean Road near the towns of Torquay and Jan Juc. Everything about Bells Beach is geared for surfing. From the shops, to the number of major surf goods manufacturers who base their global operations there, to the chilled-out disposition of the locals themselves, it's clear that Bells Beach is a surf town.

Byron Bay (North Coast, New South Wales)
Byron Bay is a beachside town in the north of the state of New South Wales in Australia. It is located 759 kilometres north of Sydney and 140 kilometres south of Brisbane.Byron Bay is the easterly most point of the Australian continent, and one of the most popular surfing beaches in New South Wales.

Four Mile Beach (Port Douglas, Queensland)
Four Mile Beach, aptly named for the four miles of clean white sand, curves around one side of Port Douglas. Located just an hour north of Cairns, along one of Australia's most scenic coastal routes, against a backdrop of rainforest mountains with a foreground of the Coral Sea

Hyams Beach (Jervis Bay, New South Wales)
Hyams Beach is a small seaside village in the Shoalhaven, New South Wales, Australia, on the shores of Jervis Bay. The village, roughly 3 hours drive south of Sydney, is bordered by 3 beaches, Chinaman's Beach to the north, Hyams Beach and Seaman's Beach to the south. Seaman's Beach is the largest of the three beaches, stretching for approximately 2 kilometres (1.6 miles). Hyams Beach is renowned as having the whitest sand in the world, the sun seems to reflect off of the water and sand even more so at this beach than others because it is so brilliant. It is an excellent holiday area for families.

Manly Beach (Sydney Suburbs, New South Wales)
Manly Beach is a well known beach situated in Sydney's Northern Beaches, Australia. A visit to Manly by ferry provides you with the quintessential Sydney experience. The thirty-minute cruise across Sydney Harbour puts you in a relaxed mood to enjoy this easy-going and cosmopolitan suburb. With the famous surf beach on the Pacific Ocean side and a serene inner harbour beach on the other, Manly has the best of both waterfront worlds and is a popular place to swim, windsurf, parasail, snorkel, kayak, surf and scuba dive.

Ninety Mile Beach (Gippsland, Victoria)
The Ninety Mile Beach is a sandy stretch of south-eastern coastline of Victoria, Australia which separates the Gippsland Lakes region from Bass Strait. Ninety Mile Beach itself is the ocean-facing edge of one giant sand dune and is the perfect place to stretch your legs and go for a short stroll. Located just over 250 kilometres from Melbourne, Ninety Mile Beach is home to some of Australia's biggest surf fishing and provides ample opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating and sailing.

Palm Beach (Sydney Suburbs, New South Wales)
Palm Beach is a northern beachside suburb of SydneY, in the state of New South Wales, Australia. Palm Beach is located 41 kilometres north of the Sydney central business district, in the local government area of Pittwater Council, in the Northern Beaches region. Palm Beach sits on a peninsula at the end of Barrenjoey Road, between Pittwater and Broken Bay. Palm Beach is the exclusive, high-end of Sydney's long stretch of the northern beaches; it's everything you'd expect from the insular-peninsula amid the playground of the nation's rich and famous

Pebbly Beach (New South Wales)
Pebbly Beach, one of the park's major attractions, lies between two headlands and forms a splendid sand beach for bathing and surf, followed by hilly grassland towards the bush.

The Sunshine Coast
This destination is similar to the Gold Coast, but without the glitz. Little Cove is an excellent place to rub surfboards with some of the world's best. There are also world-class surfing schools to help the beginning surfer learn how to hang-ten.

Kangaroo Island
Find friendly encounters with sun-loving sea lions on the beaches of this wildlife wonderland. Kangaroo Island is Australia's third largest island - after Tasmania and Melville Island. It is 112 kilometres (70 mi) southwest of Adelaide at the entrance of Gulf Saint Vincent.

Beautifully sculpted by nature's hand, the beaches of Australia are unlike any other known to man. Clean white sands and crystal blue waters are as pleasing to eye as they are to the rest of your body and senses. A meeting place of nature's raw strength and man's need to face it is what makes the Australia beaches such a destination of choice for the world's foremost surfers. Whether you wish to ride the pipeline or simply bask in the golden rays of the sun, exploring the top beaches, plan Australia tour.

A vacation getaway unlike any other, allow Australia to surround you with her mystifying enchantments and world-famous beaches.

Brisbane City-Queensland-Video

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Brisbane City, is rich in beauty, culture and natural attractions. Check this video to view Brisbane City, Queensland attraction. Video uploaded on YouTube ( Link).

Plan a Vacation to Australia

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You may like to know “Why Plan a Vacation to Australia?”, read below to find the reason…..........

Vacation is fun, and when you are planning vacation to Australia, there is no doubt that you are going to witness the best. The history of this country ranges back to around 50,000 years. The culture of the country comes from the difference in the languages and cultures of the aboriginal or native people of the country. An eclectic mix of all these cultures makes this country as wonderful as it can be. Australia vacations promise you some of the most wonderful days of your life. This land of brave soldiers and sporting heroes will remain in your mind and heart till eternity.

Australia stands at the sixth place when it comes to the size of countries. On this flattest continent, you would find a number of places of tourists’ interest. The cities are one better than the other. None of the Australia trips would be complete without a visit to Queensland. You can visit the Gold Coast and enjoy sunbathing. What make the state perfect are the beaches and the amazing weather. This is the pure essence of an Australia holiday.

Attractions of Australia:
Australia is a beautiful and interesting place to spend a holiday in. It has great beaches, great cities, and great people. It wouldn't be a surprise if you, of all people, decide to become a tourist and plan a vacation to Australia.

Every part of the country has something special to offer to the travelers, be it exotic locations or the special events that take place in the city like the marathons, flower festivals, cricket seasons, Hobart summer festival and the balloon fiesta.

There are hundreds of famous places to visit in Australia. Sunshine coast has stunning panoramic views that overlook Noosa and Mooloolaba. Nearby is Rainbow Beach, which is a coastal town that is full of life, miles of colored sands and a completely relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for your memorable Australia vacation. Whitsunday is a paragon of any diver paradise. It lies in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, with 74 islands that stand out like shimmering oases for divers.

Another state that you ought to visit during an Australia holiday is New South Wales. This is the country oldest state and has a number of tourist places. The scenic beauty of the place makes you understand why Australia vacations are so valued and special. Await some surprises when you visit Victoria which is a comparatively smaller state than other ones. The country is packed with some of the most wonderful of the sights and one such state that takes you by complete awe is Tasmania. This state again has an incomparable natural heritage. Australia vacations are plain enough to prove this statement right.

If you love to savor some good wine, then vacation to Australia will never leave you disappointed. South Australia, where Adelaide is situated, is famed for its laid back atmosphere, great wine from the Barossa valley regions and its beautiful coastline.

If southern Australia has wine, the and the western part of the country has a rich marine life northern part has the rainforests and red plains.

Vacation to Australia deliver more than what you ever expected. And if you travel south across the border into New South Wales, don't miss Byron Bay. It's got a terrific coastline with wide, sandy beaches as far as you can see. A drive up to the Lighthouse at Cape Byron will reward you with sweeping views across the coast and the Pacific.

Best Vacation Season:
The best time for vacation to Australia is the spring season. The spring season lasts from September to November. Holiday planned in between these months will give you memories that last for a lifetime. The city of Melbourne also has some amazing events that you can be a part of. Surfing and diving will leave you stress free and the wildlife is bound to get you crazy.

Do not miss the scenic drive along the Great Ocean Road if you are in Victoria. The Northern Territory which includes breathtaking landscapes and wonders including the beautiful National Parks such as Uluru-Kata Tjuta where the famous Ayers Rock.

Useful tips:
Vacations, like all other things, require planning. Planning means you have to choose what city you'll want to stay in, and in what hotel in that city will you be booking yourself into.

Recommended Reading:
Australia travel guide
Australia Tourist attractions

Winter Holidays in India

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Winter is the most exciting season in India. Breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas, ample snowfall, snowflakes on the lakes, bonfire, winter festivals and more!

India offers broadly two kinds of winter vacation options – the destinations having warm climate during the winter season and secondly, the destinations where you want to experience snow and winter sports or somewhat snow adventure activities. As India is geographically, a diversified country having both the extreme at same time and season, so it has become prime attractions for both domestic and international tourists to rejuvenate and find vacation places of their choice. India has got something or the other for every section with numerous flavors.

Winter is, undoubtedly, the best season to tour and discover India. If oppressive heat and downpour hinders travelling in summer and monsoon, winter beckons with its agreeable clime and rain-free allure. It also holds the ticket to ride a perfect vacation - and, revitalise your mind, body, and soul.

The plains in the north and even the barren countryside of Rajasthan reel under a cold wave every year in December-January. Minimum temperatures could dip below 4° C but maximum temperatures usually do not fall lower than 12° C. In the northern high altitude areas of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Sikkim, and parts of Uttar Pradesh, it snows through the winter and even summer months are only mildly warm.

The east receives rain from April to August. September to November is relatively dry and the region only has sporadic showers. There are winter rains in December and January. The central plateau has similar climate to the north but the mercury does not dip as low in winter.

Best time
October to March is undoubtedly the best time to visit most of the tourist destinations in India. From the colorful desert land of Rajasthan to the north Indian belt (encompassing Delhi, Jaipur & Agra) and from the south west coastline of Goa to the tropical south India (including Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu) - every destination blooms in winters. Be it your honeymoon tour or family holiday, winters offer a lot of fascinating attractions in India.
Winter holidays in India
The winter holiday can be a great opportunity for tourists to experience the joy of the season. Dark days of winter sing the song of setting the sun early and wind blowing; this gives us the idea to spend winter holiday in open house which is an outstanding and unique fun in itself. Some people also plan their wedding in winters so why not make it a holiday based on winter theme. Winter can also be best time for family vacation or honeymoon tours. You will find many romantic getaways for winter trips in India.

Winter holiday in India offer many tourist spots. What can you do in winter in India? Skating, skiing, snowboarding, river rafting, sledding and ice climbing are a few.

The famous destination for winter holidays in India are Auli, McLeod Ganj, Haflong,Mount Abu, Shimla, Ooty, Backwaters of Kerala, Goa, Jaisalmer, Corbett National Park, New Delhi, Hawaii etc.

Keep checking to find more details on winter vacation

How to Plan a Perfect Honeymoon

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Honeymoon is supposed to be one the most memorable part of your married life. Newly married couple has a deep desire to enjoy a really unforgettable honeymoon and a memory that they can cherish for rest of the life. Honeymoon can also work as wonder for understanding your mate closely by being together. No doubt that honeymoon is surely the most exciting step of your married life; still it is not easy to plan an ideal honeymoon. To make it lovelier, we have a buffet of some really cool secrets of honeymoon packages. It is more important for a bridal couple to examine all the options available to obtain the best honeymoon value.

Selecting Honeymoon Vacation Package
A honeymoon trip is not like an ordinary vacation. It is first trip together for married couple and a vitally important way to relax after the wedding, together. Since most couples share in the dreaming and planning stages, making a successful honeymoon tour together is a great way to start a marriage.

Everybody wants a perfect honeymoon. Selecting the right honeymoon vacation package is very important. A single mistake or ignorance can spoil your most memorable period.

Just imagine that the place you have chosen for honeymoon is not good enough to stay, no food available when needed and many other problems that can give a bad shape to your honeymoon vacation. Then with honeymoon vacation package inclusive of all can do wonders. Always go for the one that suits you and your soul mate, list out common things that both of you would like to include in your honeymoon vacation package.

How to Plan a honeymoon
Perfect honeymoons have to be carefully planned. The more you do your honeymoon homework, the more romantic - and the more fun-your honeymoon will be. Read useful tips below, which if taken care of, would go a long way in making your honeymoon a most memorable.

Useful Tips

Communicate with your partner
Find out the expectations of your partner to make honeymoon planning easy.
Choose a destination that is new to both of you.
Spend some time on internet to find the best honeymoon packages or call a travel agent. Many travel companies have developed prearranged honeymoon packages to make planning easier.
Allow ample time between booking and travel to ensure that all of your dream accommodations are available.

Choose honeymoon trips that suits your budget
Now consider the monetary aspect of the honeymoon. One should select the honeymoon tour package that is worth your money that is accepting the package that aptly fits into your budget. While planning for your honeymoon, try to do some research on the web where some holiday specialists offering worthwhile honeymoon packages, by this not only you will have a rough idea on the cost of your trip but sometimes fortunately you may also be able to get special offer available on the web.

Crux of the matter is that honeymoon packages inclusive of all in any case is a better deal since it typically includes all the expenses you might incur on your trip including food, lodging and other entertainment based attractions. Hence, it is advisable to consider above mentioned points while planning your honeymoon vacation so as to make it incredible enough to cherish in future.

Australia Tourist attractions

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There are many tourist attractions in Australia. And those tourist attractions are what bring the people to choose Australia for travel.

Australia- a country of vibrant culture witnesses thousands of travelers every year. The popularity of traveling Australia has increased over the years as every city of the country guarantees a lovely stay to the travelers. The country has some major cities as well that have turned out to be tourist destinations due to the impeccable beauty and amazingly hospitable people. The major portions of the country are New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, Victoria, South Australia and west and north Australia. Sydney being the capital of the country gathers the most number of Australia tourists every year. Melbourne, Perth and Adelaide are some of the cities that are a must on every traveler itinerary.

Australia Accommodation, such as hotels, motels and resorts is affordable. The country boasts of all types of budget and luxury hotels as well. There are many travel and tours operators in Australia who provide prior booking to some hotel or resort. While a resort offers great views, the hotels give you a chance to observe the life in the inner parts of the city. While you head on a road trip to the amazing destinations in any of the cities, make sure you take out some time to relax in a motel. You can rent a serviced apartment or spend your vacations in a country farm.

Australia tourist attractions are what bring the people to choose Australia for travel. The cities are all pulsating with amazing life and superb destinations that every traveler would love to visit. One of the best out of many Australia tourist attractions is the Sydney harbor. You can catch a live opera or theater performance in the Opera house too. If you are in an adventurous mood, try kayaking under the harbor bridge. Go shopping, hop on to a cozy beach or dig in some delicious food in the restaurants in the shopping complexes of Sydney, the city will never let you down and you will never feel tired of being a part of the spectacular lifestyle.

Melbourne, Canberra, Perth and Brisbane are those four places that you should not miss out if you want to visit the most impressive of the Australia tourist attraction. While Melbourne boasts of the best eateries and shopping places, Canberra keeps going with a horde of exciting events and activities all round the year. While Melbourne has hidden laneways, has an abundance of extroverted parklands.

Every city has something special for every traveler. Adelaide has some other attractions such as botanic park and Barossa valley. Nightlife in the city is fabulous and you will find pubs and bars some of which remain open till wee hours of night.

Free Online tours tips, travel, vacation, destination guides

Top 10 Pilgrimage Destinations in India

Most Popular Top 10 Pilgrimage Destinations in India

Haridwar and Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Bodhgaya, Bihar

Amritsar, Punjab

Shirdi, Maharashtra

Tirupati Balaji, Andhra Pradesh

Jammu and Kashmir

Kedarnath and Badrinath, Uttarakhand

Ajmer, Rajasthan

Puri, Odisha

Other Spiritual (pilgrimage) destinations in India

Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu

Udupi, Karnataka

Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu

Madurai, Tamil Nadu

Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh

Mathura and Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh

Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh

Dwarka, Gujarat

Hemkund Sahib, Uttarakhand

Mumbai, Maharashtra

Prabhas Patan, Gujarat

Top 10 Places to Visit in Rajasthan

Top Ten Tourist Places to Visit in Rajasthan

Jaipur

Udaipur

Jaisalmer

Jodhpur

Bikaner

Pushkar

Chittorgarh

Shekhawati Region

Bundi

Bharatpur

Other Places to Visit in Rajasthan

Top 10 Scuba Diving Destinations in the World

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Costa Rica, Central America

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Mexico

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Egypt

Indonesia

The best and main scuba diving destinations in Indonesia are:

Palau

Palau’s most famous and best scuba diving sites.

Australia

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The Maldives

Diving destinations and diving sites in the Maldives

Iceland

Most popular top scuba diving locations in Iceland:

Cayman Islands, British Overseas Territory

List of Diving sites in Cayman Islands:

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Top 10 Delhi Tourist Attractions

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Top 10 Places in Australia to Visit

Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations in India

Top ten honeymoon destinations in India

Goa

Ooty

Shimla

Srinagar

Coorg

Darjeeling

Rajasthan

Kerala

Lakshadweep

Manali

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Agra