Lagoons of Kerala

Introduction

Kerala backwaters are syndicate of several lakes lying parallel to the Arabian Sea. They lie in India in the state of Kerala located towards the south of the country. This chain has around five main lakes and a few canals, some of which are artificial and some are God-gifted. These lakes are fed by some thirty-eight rivers present In India. In this article the focus will be laid on Varkala beach, Marari Beach and Kovalam Beach. These beaches personify the actual bloom of Kerala.

Antiquity of The Beaches

The past of Kovalam beach relates to the tradition of India and its bygone cultures. It received attention when Regent Maharani Lakshimi Bai of Travancore constructed her beach resort Halcyon castlee here towards the end of the 1920s. Soon the place was put into public scrutiny by her nephew. Then the European guests of the Travancore dynasty came across the charm in the Kovalam beach. This was the glorious time when Kovalam beach turned into a fishing center but soon its tourist potential was recognized ad gradually resorts were built.
On the other hand is the Varkala beach. Its history reflects the old beliefs of the people of that time and the way they considered nature as a blessing for them. A common belief is that lord Brahma ordered Pandyan King to construct a temple on this position in order to restore him from his transgressions.

According to another myth, a cluster of pilgrims come up to Saint Narada informing about their wrong doing, Narada‘s valkalam fell  on this picturesque town and for this reason, the area is called Varkala. Pilgrims were told by Narada to ask for their release at Papanasam, that means rescue from sins. With these stories people became aware of this place and it once again came to public attention. After this many people came here and on covered its beauty and gradually with the developments this place became a tourist resort.

Another beach on this state is the Marari beach. Being just a village Marari beach does not possess a vast background or any sort of history. Therefore, historians are quite about its past. Today it has developed into a very beautiful and bloomy tourist spot with its natural clear water.

ALLURING GLIMPSE OF KERALA:

With the vastness of Kerala many tourist attractions can be found here apart from beaches. There are many temple festivals which take place nearly every year from February to April for continuous ten days. One of these festivals is Thrissur Pooram, in which large processions of drummers, musicians, bejeweled elephants, colorful floats that must be carrying goddesses and gods as well as fireworks are noticed. With music many cultural dances are observed which catch the public eye.

Another important practice in this region is Ayurveda which is a form of Yoga for healing and is being practiced for over five thousand years. With the passage of time many resorts have been built specifically for this rejuvenation. In this process meditation is a focal point and other than that many herbal liquids are poured on the body for relaxation. Many workaholics specially visit Kerala for this treatment.
Beaches give a high peak to the significance of this area. Snake boat races are a noticeable activity in this region. People might wonder hearing the name snake boat race, if there would be real snakes while riding, well it’s not like that. Snake boat racing is done in the beaches of Kerala where people ride on a snake shaped canoe and race with each other. Its history traces back to the time of Alleppey Kings, where they had to fight each other and fought in boats. One of them used snake boats and fought successfully. From that time onwards people use snake boats and do different activities in them.

The beaches of Kerala are a prodigious place to visit. Watching the waves crash or sun bathing are two very healing activities for tourists. These beaches offer a serene environment away from the busy city lives. What else can one desire, if they get cool winds touching the face and seeing the white blue yonder above and clear sparkling water crashing into one another and covering the fine sand with it in the front., shadowed by the date and coconut trees in the vicinity.

Today’s Kerala

Today Kerala is a very engrossed state with a huge population and billions of travelers. Around two and a half million people visit this place every year. There are many tourist facilities such as resorts with most gratifying rooms and lobbies and salons. Many guides are available who help the tourist find the most adequate places and activities to do. Moreover, with the growing world many modes of transport are present. Every year people travel either by air as there are many international and domestic airports present in the region. 

As far as only domestic travelers are concerned they can easily travel through train. Around three hundred trains connect Kerala to the other parts of India. Many private and government controlled buses operate in the region and travel during the night to prevent the scorching heat of the day. Therefore, it becomes very easy to travel through road, rail and air. With this not only kids but also adults and old-aged people can have a wonderful time there. One can be entertained by traditional rituals, rich culture and immense hospitability offered by the locals. He health care, yoga and meditation offered by the domestics is worth giving a try to ensure that the relaxation and peace of mind is achieved. After all the main reason to plan a holiday is to spend some quality time to enjoy harmony and tranquility.

Being the cleanest states of India with over 100 percent literacy rate this place is definitely deserves a visit. All this facilitates a perfect holiday to Kerala. So why not plan a next holiday to Kerala? What are you waiting for then, book your flight today to Kerala.

Taj Mahal - Symbol of Love Architecture

Taj Mahal, also known as the crown of palaces has been sanctioned in the top Seven Wonders of the World. It’s also recognized as the most dominant tourist spot in the brightest jewel of crown-India. The actual reason for its presence is still unknown, yet it stands as the sign of love of the mughal emperor- Shah Jehan for his wife. Shah Jehan was just a fourteen years old boy when he met Mumtaz and fell in love with her. Just a few years later in 1612 they got married and started with their new life. Mumtaz gave birth to the kids of the Emperor and at the time of the birth of the fourteenth child, she passed away. To commemorate her wife, Shah Jehan built this beautiful palace. The arts and ideas used in this alluring work portray the love of Shah Jehan for his late wife. Around thirty-two million rupees were spent on its construction, which once again displays the inclination of Shah Jehan towards his wife. Construction started in 1631, right after his wife’s death and was completed in 1653.

Interesting Facts and Features

Taj Mahal basically is the white marbled cemetery positioned in Agra city, in the province of Uttar Pradesh, India. It covers around forty acres land. On the other side it has five main features which are as following; Garden (bagheecha), Masjid (mosque),Naqqar Khana (rest house), Rauza( main mausoleum) and Darwaza (grand hallway). It amalgamates the most perfect arts of India, Persia and Ottoman Empire. The gate is quoted with verses from the Holy Quran and is made up of fine black stone. The dome is itself of eighty-one feet in height and the diameter lengths around fifty-nine meters. In the vicinity, four beautiful and around one hundred and thirty seven feet high minarets stand. Towards west a sumptuous mosque enhances the glorious attraction with a rest house towards east, made of red sandstone. Next is the heaven-like garden, which depicts the paradise. The garden has a beautiful well. The raised walkways segregate each of the four quarters into 16 flowerbeds.

Tomb is another salient feature of the palace, which is even higher than a twenty storey building. The white limpid marble for construction was brought down from Makrana, Rajhastan. The proprietor-Shah Jehan, himself was also buried there. On the crypt of Mumtaz Mahal, ninety-nine names of Allah were carved.

To complete the work, a two-mile ramp was built to take the construction material to the dome. It took around twenty-two years to complete the splendid palace. Precious stones were imported from far flung areas. A work force of around twenty thousand people was engaged including calligraphers, carvers, stone-cutters etc. The design was formed by an Italian Geronimo Verroneo and Indian Ismail Khan.

Today’s Taj Mahal

Today, Taj Mahal is looked up on as the premium site to pay a visit. It attracts not only the people Asia but it also captures the vision of the outlanders.

Most people visit it to bring out and rejuvenate the pages of past and glorious light of the Mughal dynasty. Travelers walk on the pathways of the gardens and soothe out their minds. Its gardens portray the excellence in one’s life as the field itself is-perfect. Its beauty not only magnetizes the old aged people but also the youngsters, where all they see and sense is the purity in its charm.

In the present day life any soul which visits this palace definitely thinks and re-thinks of the love that the Emperor showed for his wife. In general it may be believed that Shah Jehan’s reign gave a very high peak to architecture but his love and affection can never be overlooked.

Around sixty to seventy thousand visitors go to the palace daily and capture its purity and the secrets of love it veils. The best times to capture its pictures are either at the time of sunrise, very early morning, or at the afternoon when it’s all dazzling. At the time of sunset, where it is all shaded with various blues. Visitors also take pictures after the fading of twilight where they see beautiful white lights rising from within itself in the vicinity of darkness of the night.

Here tourists enjoy elephant rides and snake and monkey dances. The best juncture to tour the palace is from late October to early April where heat is not really intense and the winters are bearable. The best part for tourists is that every sort of visitor either rich or poor can easily visit it anytime. Yet, the best means of transport are air, road and railway, which are available all year round. With this foreign visitors must have a visa before they get in India and then for sure they can easily get to their destination. Agra is not a port city so it isn’t accessible through sea. 

With a lot of ease a large number of people come and visit Taj Mahal every year.

Visitors of Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal is considered among the most visited places of the world. Yearly, around two to three million people visit this master piece of art. Almost one quarter of a million visitors come to India to visit Taj Mahal.

How You Can Visit Taj Mahal

The interior of mausoleum is outstanding that really deserve the exploration. However, if you look at the building from outside, you have to spend hours to appreciate a fraction of its glorious structure. You can imagine the mood of world outside of this mighty structure, by looking at shiny white marbles. Therefore, it’s good if you can study about the Taj Mahal beforehand. Each and every corner of the Taj Mahal is worth seeing but you must know about the most striking points so that you would not have missed during your visit to this mausoleum.

Bottom Line

If you are travelling to India and you don’t have plans to visit Taj Mahal, then you are going to miss the golden chance to visit this Wonder of the World. 

Rishikesh - World Capital of Yoga

"Rishikesh - World Capital of Yoga"

Introduction

Rishikesh is a small, serene, picturesque town situated in the foothills of Himalaya Mountains. Being one of the ancient core places for spiritual healing and religious activities, this town is surrounded by hills and located on Ganga River’s bank. This hub of yoga is located in North of Uttarakhand, India. The term “Hrishikesh" is derived from the word Hrishik meaning Vishnu that is ' lord of the sense' therefore the word Hrishikesh refers to lord Vishnu or Lord of Sense. Being the gateway for Hindu pilgrimage, Rishikesh is also famous for its rich culture and heritage as well as exotic range of food that is offered here.

History

Several myths are associated with this place. A common believe is that a Saint namely Raibhya Rishi came here and performed penance on the Ganges River bank. Being contented with his gestures, Lord Vishnu appeared to him in shape of this beautiful city Hrishikesh which is now known as Rishikesh. This place gained popularity after the Adi Shankarcharya visited it in the 9^th century. He was regarded as popular religious chief of modern era. It is also stated that Lord Rama came here to seek repentance for killing Ravana who was the demon. His younger brother crossed this River Ganges at the spot where the bridge made from jute is standing today. By law this city is considered a vegetarian place and a holy city too.

Getting to Rishikesh

Fortunately its popularity has gained so much that tourism industry has provided almost all means of travelling to this place ranging from bus to plane. Rishikesh is nearer to Dheradun where a small airport is located facilitating two flights from Delhi but initiatives are planned to stretch the runway so that more and more flights are operated not just locally but internationally also. If one is not in a hurry and has ample time to travel so an option of travelling by road is perfect. Especially if an individual is visiting to calm themselves so going by road is quite amusing. Traveling by train is more suitable in the peak time when buses are diverted to Haridwar and trains often are empty offering low fares. Bus is a cheaper option but then takes 5-7 hours to reach from Delhi.

When To Visit

Located on foothill of Himalaya Mountains, it presents a fresh and cool flee during summers. March-April and also September-October is an ideal visiting time. From second quarter the weather gets hotter and in July-August, heavy showers are experienced making the place muddy and mushy. In the monsoon season the climate is humid with roads and pavements being more slippery because of the steepness this hilly area has. Right after the rainy season the surroundings are fresh, moist, greener and soothing so that time is preferable too. In the month of July a festival called Saavan is celebrated, for which many people visit this place so Rishikesh is crowded during this time of the year.

Attractions

The vicinity is surrounded by many sacred temples and other than these religious attractions, historical orphanages as well as national parks are looking forward to welcome you. Trevini Ghat, Bharat Temple, Lakshman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Neelkanth Mahadev, Kailash Niketan Temple, Kunjapuri Temple and exclusive Vashisht Cave are few of the temple that are a must visit. Trevini Ghat is named after the three mountainous streams that flowed here in the old times. Rajaji National Park, Swarga Ashram and Gita Bhuvan are some delightful spots to wander across and discover. The best and hassle free way to visit these allures is to wear comfortable joggers and walk around the city. People who love experiencing adventures can come here for rafting and trekking as well. They can also go camping, rappelling, rock climbing, cliff jumping, kayaking, and bungee jumping and enjoy astrology services.

You can also entertain yourself by going to music festivals organized by music centers there. It will be an awesome experience to meditate one’s own self through live music offered in Ram Jhula or take music classes to learn the basics and specific types as well. The music instructors are professional degree holders who are renowned internationally.

Yoga in Rishikesh

Apart from performing pilgrimage, people can come here to indulge in yoga. This philosophical science, as is termed, lets one enjoy the charm of being existent. Rishikesh is titled as world capital of yoga because it was this place from where yoga was originated. Being the center of yoga almost every tourist who comes here never ends up their tour without going to any yoga centers and trainers. A common belief among locals is that yoga brings nearer to accomplishment of moksha (release) or liberation. A dip with therapeutic powers in River Ganges is also worth a try to feel the sense of being pure and relaxed, away from the worldly tensions and disturbances.

Rishikesh is also an institution in itself to learn about different meditation, postures, and tricks of reiki through experienced reiki masters. Some reputed yoga centers include Rishikesh Yog Dham, Himalayan Yoga Academy, Rishikesh Yog Peeth, and Institution for Higher Meditative Consciousness etc.

Food & Accommodation

As Rishikesh is a sacred town so one may not expect to find meat related food items. For a change tasty and healthy herbal food is exciting enough to fill your stomach. The ayurvedic teas are a must drink item because the refreshed feeling it gives is unmatched to ordinary sodas and juices. Chotiwala restaurant offers the most exotic Indian cuisine in town. Other than formal eateries, road side cafes and stall are always there to greet you to enjoy some authentic Indian entrees on low and reasonable prices. Rishikesh is always known for its miniatures and Shikhawati paintings that can be a best souvenir for friends and family back home. One can also shop for books related to religion, clothes, and locally manufactured handicrafts.

As far as accommodation is concerned, Rishikesh has a wide range of resorts and hotels from cheap rates to premium prices. It depends upon your budget and pocket for how much can you readily pay. The more cheaper and traditional option is to stay at ashrams which in many cases also offer free meals and medical treatments to the visitors. The overall holy and composed environment amuses and inspires visitors to inculcate virtuous thoughts within themselves. The unique factors held by Rishikesh are fascinating enough to grab attention. Not forgetting the picturesque beauty and nature it has, this is one of those scenic places that rejuvenates and helps to revitalize an individual’s personality.

101 places to visit in India

Spiritual India

1. Rishikesh : Rishikesh is a holy city for Hindus located in the foothills of the Himalaya in northern India. It is also known as the gateway to Himalayas and is considered an access point for the cities of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri, together known as the Char Dham. Rishikesh also translates to mean - The land of the Rishis (Saints).

2. Haridwar : Haridwar is a holy Hindu city located in the state of Uttaranchal in Northern

India. Haridwar, according to Hindu mythology, is one of the four places where the drops

of the elixir of immortality, Amrita accidentally spilled over from the pitcher in which it was being carried away by the celestial bird Garuda, the vehicle of Vishnu.

3. Badrinath : Situated 297 kms from the holy town of Rishikesh at an altitude of 3,133 m above sea-level, Badrinath is considered to be amongst the most pious of the eternal Hindu shrines of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. Badrinath is located in the lap of Nar-Narayan Parvat, with the picturesque Neelkanth peak in the background.

4. Kedarnath : The most remote of the four Char Dham sites, Kedarnath is located in the lap of the mighty Himalayas, about 3584m above sea level. Kedarnath is the abode of one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a popular destination for Hindu pilgrims from all over the world.

5. Gangotri : Couched in the magnificent Garhwal hills, Gangotri is at an altitude of 3048 meters above sea level. It is on the northernmost part of the state of Uttaranchal and is located close to the Indo-Tibetan border. Gangotri is believed to be the place where Goddess Ganges descended from the heavens.

6. Yamunotri : One of the Char Dhams according to Hindu mythology, Yamunotri is the origin place of the sacred river Yamuna. Famous for its thermal springs and glaciers, it is one of the most important stopovers on the itinerary of the Hindu pilgrim. According to a legend, Asit Muni, a revered sage, used to reside here.

7. Golden Temple : The Golden Temple or Harmandir Sahib, located in Amritsar in the state of Punjab is the most sacred shrine of Sikhism. Considered to be a symbol of freedom and spiritual independence, devotees come to the temple from all over the world to enjoy the serene environs and offer their prayers.

8. Benaras : Also known as Varanasi, Benaras is the most visited pilgrimage in all of India. One of the seven holy cities, it is the most favored place for Hindus to die and be cremated. A bath in the holy waters of the Ganges is believed to wash away the sins of a person.sightseeing.

9. Amarnath : Amarnath is one of the most famous Hindu temples located in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva os believed to be over 5000 years old and houses an naturally formed ice shivling and attracts thousands of devotees during the 45 days of annual pilgrimage.

10. Ujjain : Ujjain is an ancient city of central India, located in the state of Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the seven sacred cities of the Hindus, and the Kumbh Mela religious festival is held there every twelve years. It is also home to Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva.

11. Puri : Situated in the east Indian state of Orissa, Puri is one of the oldest cities in India. The city is famous for its Jagannath Temple as also a popular beach resort. The temple was built in the late eleventh century.

12. Vrindavan : Vrinadavan in the state of Uttar Pradesh is the place where Lord Krishna spent the days of his youth, thousands of years ago. The city, visited by thousands of devotees is famous for its numerous beautiful temples and ghats built on the banks of river Yamuna.

13. Kanya Kumari : Kanyakumari is the southernmost point of peninsular India and the meeting point of three oceans-the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. Besides its importance as a Hindu pilgrim center, it is famous for its beautiful views of sunrise and sunset over the waters.

14. Kanchipuram : Situated in the southern part of India, Kanchipuram is famed for the beautiful Ekambareswara Temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple was constructed in the mid of 9th century by the Pallavas. It has a 200 ft gopuram with more than 10 stories of intricate sculpture.

15. Dwarka : Dwarka, on the west coast of Gujarat on the shores of the Arabian Sea, features in most of the legends surrounding Lord Krishna. It is from here that Lord Krishna is supposed to have ruled over his kingdom. Dwarka is a significant pilgrimage site for the Hindus.

Indian Wilderness

16. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary : The calm and peaceful Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is reputed to be the largest wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka. Housing some of the rarest animal and bird species, it is an unspoilt, untouched and unexplored treasure of wildlife that is sure to leave you spellbound.

17. Corbett National Park : Located in the foothills of the Himalayas in the state of Uttaranchal is the majestic Corbett National Park. Home to a variety of flora and fauna, it is most famous for its wild population of Tigers, Leopards and Elephants.

18. The Little Rann of Kutch Sanctuary : The Little Rann of Kutch Sanctuary also known as Wild Ass Wildlife Sanctuary in the state of Gujarat is the largest wildlife sanctuary in India. The sanctuary is one of the last places on earth where the endangered wild ass sub- species Khur (Equus hemionus khur) belonging to species Onager (Equus hemionus) can be spotted.

19. National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary : The National Chambal Sanctuary, founded in

1979 is famous for the rare gangetic dolphin. The sanctuary is part of a large area co- administered by Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh with its other residents being the magar (crocodile) and gharial (alligator), chinkara, sambar, nilgai, wolf and wild boar.

20. Bandhavgarh National Park : This is a small National Park, compact, yet full of game. The density of the Tiger population at Bandhavgarh is the highest known in India. This is also White Tiger country. These have been found in the old state of Rewa for many years.

21. Van Vihar National Park : Van Vihar National Park in Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya

Pradesh, spans over an area of about 445 hectares. Although it has the status of a

national park, Van Vihar is developed and managed as a modern zoological park, following the guidelines of the Central Zoo Authority.

22. Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary : Situated in Rajasthan, the landscape of Sariska is dominated by sharp cliffs of hills and narrow valleys of the Aravallis. Besidest the numerous animal and bird species, within the wildlife sanctuary are the ruins of medieval temples of Garh-Rajor, belonging to the 10th and 11th centuries.

23. Melghat Tiger Reserve : A prime habitat of the striped predator, Melghat Tiger Reserve is located on southern offshoot of the Satpura Hill Range in Central India, also known as Gavilgarh hills. The high ridge running East-West forms the South Western boundary of

the Reserve.

24. Ranthambore National Park : The former hunting ground of the Maharajas of Jaipur, the Ranthambore National Park is situated in Eastern Rajasthan at the confluence of the Aravali hill ranges and the Vindhyan plateau. The park is known for its population of tigers and leopards.

25. Periyar National Park : Periyar or Thekkady is a protected area, and a Project Tiger nature reserve in the South Indian State of Kerala. Amongst the wild residents of the park are over 62 mammal and and 320 bird species.

26. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary : One of the finest bird parks in the world, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary (Keoladeo Ghana National Park), is located in the state of Rajasthan. The park is said to house over 400 species of birds, including a number of rare migratory birds which arrive here during the winter season.

Adventurer ’s Paradise

27. Kanha National Park : Located in the Mandla district of Madhya Pradesh, Kanha national park cum Tiger reserve extends over an area of over 1,940-sq-kms. Besides being home to the tiger, the other major feature of the region is the horseshoe shape valley and the large open areas infested by spurs of Mekal.

28. Arunachal Pradesh : The 'Treasure trove of Nature', Arunachal Pradesh is a picturesque state in India. Famous for its varied landscape, the state is a heaven for nature lovers and adventure sports enthusiasts. Some of the opportunities available are trekking, mountain climbing, camping and mountain biking.

29. Auli : Auli in Uttaranchal is one of the major tourist destinations, famous for its beautiful slopes covered with oak and coniferous trees. The miles of white snow laden mountain slopes make Auli every skier's dream come true.

30. Billing : Sheltered by gigantic mountains and surrounded by lush tea gardens, Billing a small village with a Tibetan Colony and monasteries in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh. The place has long served as a landing ground and a base for Hang and Para gliders.

31. Cauvery : The Cauvery Fishing Camp, situated on the banks of the River Cauvery, has surroundings ideal for an eco-tour. Dry deciduous forests dominate the vegetation. The picturesque and the tranquil location make the Cauvery Fishing Camp an unforgettable experience.

32. Dodital : Situated at an altitude of 3024 mts above sea level, Dodital, in Uttaranchal is famous for its crystal-clear lake, that make it a perfect spot for those enjoy the sport of trout fishing. The place also offers exciting opportunities for trekking and mountain climbing.

33. Gulmarg : Gulmarg, which means the "Meadow of Flowers," was discovered as a tourist destination by the British during the 19th century. The place with its varied landscape and snow covered mountain slopes makes an ideal base for adventure sports like trekking and snow skiing.

34. Leh : Famous for its barren beauty and Buddhist monasteries, Leh is a wonderful destination for adventure sports lovers. The town offers some magnificent trekking trails as also exciting opportunties for jeep safari.

35. Manali : Manali is a place of immense natural beauty, situated in the state of Himachal Pradesh. The place has recently shot to fame as a most favored spot for adventure sports enthusiasts with exciting opportunities of trekking, snow skiing and mountain climbing.

36. Zanskar : The adventure destination of Zanskar is an isolated and scantily inhabited

Himalayan Valleys. Dotted with high hills and gorgeous gompas, Zanskar offers fun filled

Beaches in India

37. Calangute : One of Goa's busiest and most commercialised beaches, Calangute is a serene fishing village which became a favourite hideout of the hippies in the 70's and 80's. Today, Calangute beach symbolise Goa's reputation as a haven for beach and coastal splendour

38. Dona Paula : Situated in Goa, the beach is named after Dona Paula de Menzes, the daughter of a former Indian viceroy. The beach is known for its numerous exciting water sports opportunities.

39. Bogmalo : A former fishing village in the state of Goa, Bogmalo beach sports a mixture of serenity and commercialism, splashed with simple beauty where one can happily lose oneself. THe beach is known for its immense natural beauty.

40. Kovalam : On the Malabar coast along the Kerala shore line is a small village known as Kovalam. This sleepy town suddenly came on the tourist map when its fabulous beaches were discovered and has today become one of the most popular beach hangouts in India.

41. Varkala : Varkala beach, is the best spot along the coast of Kerala for watching the sunset. The sight of the sun melting into the sea would blossom your poetic sense. The mineral springs gushing from the hill is believed to have medicinal properties.

42. Beypore : Situated at the mouth of the Cheliyar river in Kerala, Beypore beach is an ideal heaven to provide a welcome break to your jaded urbanised souls. The clean waters of the beach are ideal for practising such sports as swimming, para sailing ans sea surfing.

43. Juhu : Juhu Beach is the most famous beach in Mumbai city. It is situated on the shores of Arabian Sea in Juhu suburb and famous for its Mumbai 'street food', notably bhelpuri, pani puri, shevpuri, chaats, and of course pav bhaji.

Magnificent Forts & Palaces

44. Red Fort, Delhi : One of the most spectacular pieces of Mughal Architecture is the Lal

Quila or the Red Fort. Built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, it has walls extending up

to 2 kms. in length with the height varying from 18 mts. on the river side to 33 mts. on the city side...a truly amazing construction.

45. Agra Fort : Built by the great Emperor Akbar in 1565 A.D. the fort is a masterpiece of design and construction. Within the fort are a number of exquisite buildings including the Musanman Burj, where Emperor Shah Jahan died in imprisonment.

46. Amber Fort, Jaipur : The magnificent Amer Fort was built by Raja Man Singh. The major attractions are Sheela Devi Temple and Sheesh Mahal ( Hall of mirrors). The museum here houses one of the world`s biggest cannon on wheels and a rich collection of arms and weapons.

47. Jaisalmer Fort : The golden hued fort is a sentinel to the bleak desertscape from its 80 metre high perch on the hill, housing the entire township within its ramparts. It has an enchanting cow-web of narrow lanes dotted with some lovely havelis, three beautifully sculptured Jain Temples and five interconnected palaces. The fort is approached through four towering gateways.

48. Hawa Mahal, Jaipur : Hawa Mahal is the most strikingly designed monument in Jaipur. The five storeyed crown shaped structure was conceived to provide an adequate vantage position behind delicate stone-carved screens for the palace women to watch the royal processions passing through the Bazar below.

49. City Palace, Jaipur : The historic City Palace has carved arches supported by grey- white marble columns studded with floral motifs in gold and coloured stones. Two elephants carved in marble guard the entrance, where retainers whose families have served generations of the rulers are at hand, to serve as guides.

50. Lake Palace, Udaipur : In the middle of lake Pichhola is the Lake palace or Jag Mandir where prince Khuman Singh, later known as emperor Shahjahan who built the world famous Taj Mahal, sought refuse from his father emperor Jahangir. This three story building was completed by Maharana Jagat Singh in 1652 A.D.

51. Lalgarh Palace, Bikaner : Located 3 km north of the city centre, the red sandstone palace was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in memory of his father Maharaja Lal Singh. The palace has beautiful latticework and filigree work. Part of the palace has been converted into a luxury hotel and a museum.

52. Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur : Built during the 20th century to provide work to the famine struck people, Umaid Bhawan is one of the largest private residence in the world. A part of the palace is used as residence by the royal family while the other part has been converted into a heritage hotel.

Hill Stations in India

53. Gangtok : Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim with a population of approximately 50,000 has emerged into the mainstream of the Tourism Industry, with more and more tourist visiting this little Himalayan state every year. Gangtok has developed into a cosmopolitan flavour where old-world charm and hospitality exist along with the Internet Age.

54. Darjeeling : Gifted to the British East India Company in 1817, Darjeeling is a picturesque hill station in the state of West Bengal. Amongst the prominent tourist attractions of Darjeeling are the Japanese Peace Pagoda, Tiger Hills and the Tenzing Norgay Himalayan Mountaineering Institute.

55. Dharamsala : Set against the backdrop of the dramatic Dhauladhar mountains, Dharamsala is perched on the high slopes in the upper reaches of Kangra Valley. Today, Dharamsala has become the synonymous to the Tibetan government in exile and the home of Tibetan leader Dalai Lama.

56. Dehradun : Besides being a popular hill station in India, Dehradun is also home to the famed schools of the order of Doon School and Welhams as elite centers of learning in India. Apart from being a much sought after hill station in India, they qualify Doon valley to be a star class educational center.

57. Kasauli : Kasauli is a beautiful hill station located just 77 kms from Shimla in the state of Himachal Pradesh. The small town was founded during the 19th century by Britishers as a summer retreat and still retains the old charm, which attracts thousands of visitors every year.

58. Khandala : Khandala is a hill station, which dazzles the visitors with its spectacular scenery, verdant hills, deep green valleys, beautiful lakes and cascading waterfall. Situated at an altitude of 625 mt in the Sahyadri hills, this hill resort is a popular weekend gateway from the hectic life of Mumbai.

59. Mahabaleshwar : At 1,372 meters above sea level, Mahabaleshwar is one of the most spectacular and the largest of Maharashtra's hill-stations. The place is known for its immense natural beauty as also a popular getaway from the hectic city lives.

60. Mount Abu : Mount Abu was founded by the British as a relaxation place to rewind along with the royalties. The place sways in an interesting contrast of British style bungalows, the holiday lodges of the royals, with the presence of the various tribal communities.

61. Munnar : Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathani & Kundala. This once summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India, Munnar is known for its sprawling tea plantations, picture book towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities that make it a popular resort town.

62. Kodaikanal : Situated at an altitude of 2133 mts amidst the verdant Pali hills, Kodaikanal is one of the most popular hill stations in India. With her wooded slopes, mighty rocks, enhancing waterfalls and a beautiful lake, Kodaikanal is a charming hill station, and one of the favourite getaways in South India.

63. Dalhousie : Located in the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, Dalhousie is one of the most popular hill stations and a honey mooner's paradise. The place offers numerous exciting adventure sports opportunities including snow sports during winters.

64. Kullu : The serene little town of Kullu is famous for its colourful Dussehra festival. Decorated palanquins and processions convey Gods and Goddesses from temples all over the valley to Kullu. A Fair springs up during the festival which is celebrated with a great deal of singing, dancing and festivity.

65. Khajjiar : A small picturesque saucer-shaped plateau surrounded by dense pine and deodar forests is one of the 160 places throughout the world to have been designated "Mini Switzerland". Khajjiar is a place of immense natural beauty, situated in the state of

Himachal Pradesh.

66. Mussoorie : Mussoorie, with its green hills and varied flora & fauna, is a fascinating hill resort. Commanding snow ranges to the north-east, and glittering views of the Doon

Valley & Shiwalik ranges in the south, the town presents a fairyland atmosphere to the tourists.

67. Ooty : The serene hill station of Ooty draws swarms of tourists every year. The weather is quite pleasant at a mean of 15-20 C year round, dropping to lows of 0 C during winter. The landscape is marked by rolling hills covered with dense vegetation, smaller hills and plateaus covered with tea gardens, and eucalyptus trees.

68. Nainital : The hill resort of Nainital has since long been a refuge for the sun scorched souls of the plains. The British made it there summer headquarter. The natural beauty and especially the Lake has made Nainital one of the favourite summer destinations and a reason why people throng this hill resort.

69. Shimla : Shimla or Simla is the capital of the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is a very popular holiday-retreat during the summer months and is well-known for its Victorian architecture, which is reflected in certain areas of the Mall and The Ridge.

70. Srinagar : Located in the center of the Kashmir valley, the district of Srinagar towers at a height of 1,730 m above sea level. The city is well known for its lush gardens and the Dal Lake, where the tourists can enjoy a shikara (house boat) ride.

71. Darjeeling : Originally just a cluster of villages that was administered intermittently by Nepal and Sikkim, Darjeeling grew in prominence when the British discovered the suitability of the area for growing tea. The town was subsequently annexed by the British Indian Empire and a small railway was constructed linking the town with the lowlands.

Cities of India

72. Agra : Situated  in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, Agra houses the most magnificent monument of love on the planet, the Taj Mahal. Besides, there are other historical structures as well as the famous Mughlai cuisine.

73. Ahmedabad : Ahmedabad is the sixth largest city of India and the commercial hub of the state of Gujarat. The city is certainly worth a visit for people who like to be away from hectic activity while relishing on the few available tourist attractions.

74. Ajmer : Ajmer is a little town situated in the northern state of Rajasthan. Famous for its religious attractions, the chief objects of interest in Ajmer are Pushkar, and the Dargah (tomb) of the most revered Muslim sufi saint Moinuddin Chishti, the Gharib Nawaz.

75. Allahabad : Located at the Sangam (confluence) of the rivers Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati, Allahabad is one of the oldest cities of India and a pilgrimage centre of utmost importance, also famous for the Kumbh and Ardh Kumbh Melas held every twelve and six years respectively.

76. Alleppey : This fairly pleasant market town is built on canals and surrounded by coconut trees. With the Arabian Sea on its west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons and several freshwater rivers criss-crossing it, Alleppey (Alappuzha) is a district of immense natural beauty.

77. Amritsar : Amritsar is the spiritual capital of the Sikh religion. The city houses the holiest place for the Sikhs, the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple). The people are nice and friendly and it is great to sit for a few hours in the shade of the temple and relax.

78. Bangalore : Bangalore, officially known as Bengalooru, is one of the most hip and happening cities in India and also a major center of the I.T. industry. Some of the major landmarks of the city are Vidhan Soudha, Bangalore Palace, Bull Temple and Cubbon Park.

79. Bikaner : Lying in the north of Rajasthan state, Bikaner is dotted with scores of sand dunes. The city beautifully retains the medieval grandeur that permeates the city's lifestyle. The city is distinguished for the best riding camels in the world and hence boasts of having one of the largest Camel research and breeding farm in the world.

80. Bodh Gaya : In the state of Bihar, Bodh Gaya is the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment and thus laid the foundations of Buddhism. Amongst the prominent attractions of the place are the Bodhi tree and the Mahabodhi temple.

81. Chandigarh : Situated 270 km north of Delhi, Chandigarh is a serene city lying in the valley surrounded by Shiwalik Hills that hem the great Himalayas. Besides its numerous tourist attractions, Chandigarh also serves as an access point for the hill resorts of Kulu, Manali, Dharmashala and Dalhousie.

82. Chennai : Chennai, also known as Madras, is the capital of the southern state of Tamil Nadu. The city was one of the first outposts of British East India Company and is known for its numerous beautiful colonial structures.

83. Shirdi : Situated in Maharashtra, Shirdi is famous for saint Saibaba. A special aarti is performed at the Saibaba temple every Thursday, which is attended by numerous devotees. Other places of tourist interest are Gurusthan, Khandoba Temple, Shani Mandir and Sakori Ashram.

84. Delhi : A city of great character, of contrasts and convolutions, Delhi is the capital of India. A city with antiquity dating back over 2,000 years, it is also a modern metropolis with fast cars and neon lit shopping malls. So varied are the shades of Delhi's different faces, it is difficult to grasp it in a short span of time.

85. Goa : Goa is often sobriquet the 'Beach Capital of India', however, there's much more to it than sun, sand and psychedelia. The allure of Goa is that it remains quite distinct from the rest of India and is small enough to be grasped and explored in a way that other Indian states are not.

86. Hyderabad : The capital of Andhra Pradesh, Hyderabad is a big, lively and traditional city, which offers travellers fascinating glimpses of a four hundred years old legacy. Also known as the Istanbul of India, here, in every corner of the city, you will see its dualistic character, the coming together of Muslims and Hindus.

87. Jaipur : Jaipur, the largest city in Rajasthan, offers several massive forts such as the Hawa Mahal and the Amber Fort. Besides, the city also serves as a stepping stone to the enchanting desert cities of Jodhpur and Jaisalmer. Jaipur is called the "pink" city because of the color of its historical buildings built by Maharajah Jai Singh.

88. Jaisalmer : The city of Jaisalmer shimmers like a mirage amidst the desolate beauty of the hot barren deserts of Rajasthan. The Jaisalmer Fort, perched atop the triangular- shaped Trikuta Hills, contains some gems of Jain temple buildings, while beautifully decorated havelis are scattered throughout the town. The city is also famous for its beautiful embroidery.

89. Jammu : Jammu is situated at the footsteps of the Himalayas. The city is also known as the City of Temples for its numerous temples built around the city and also in the province. The immense natural beauty of the surroundings also make it a favored spot for nature lovers.

90. Jodhpur : Situated in Rajasthan, Jodhpur is mainly known for its impressive Mehrangarh Fort, located on top of a hill, from where a panoramic view of the surroundings can be had. There are other numerous opportunities for sightseeing and camel safari into the desert.

91. Khajuraho : Situated in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho is a small village, known the world over for its temple architecture and exquisitely carved erotic sculptures. The annual fair held here is a popular attraction for the tourists.

92. Kolkata : Called Calcutta in British times, Kolkata still conjures up images of squalor, poverty and urban disaster. But don't believe the hype, for India's third-largest city is defined not by its poverty but by the energy, imagination and zest for life of its people.

93. Lucknow : Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh is a city of Nawabs and friendly people. The city is best known for its elaborate cuisine and 'chikankaari' or exquisite shadow work embroidery on fine muslin cloth.

94. Mumbai : Mumbai is charactersied by the glamour of Bollywood cinema, shopping malls full of designer labels, cricket on the streets and promenading families eating bhelpuri on the beach at Chowpatty. Some of the famous tourist attractions of the city are the Gateway of India, Marine Drive and Elephanta Caves.

95. Pushkar : According to the Padma (Lotus) Purana, Pushkar, 15km northwest of ajmer, came into existence when Lord Brahma, the Creator, dropped his lotus flower (pushpa) to earth from his hand (kar) to kill a demon. Pushkar remains a holy Hindu city as also the site for the only Brahma temple in the world.

96. Udaipur : One of the most romantic cities in Rajasthan, Udaipur is also known as the city of lakes. The marble palaces, beautifully laid out gardens and the lakes make Udaipur seem almost like a mirage. Surrounded by ancient Aravali Mountains and set on the edge of three lakes, Udaipur is a brilliant kaleidoscope of narrow lanes flanked by bright stalls, gardens, lakes, palaces and temples.

97. Pune : Pune is a historic city with a past of nearly 600 years, both illustrious and romantic. Fast emerging as a metropolitan of Maharashtra state, some of the most important tourist attractions in Pune are the Aga Khan's Palace, Appu Ghar, Bund Garden and Osho Commune.

98. Bhopal : Bhopal, the city of lakes, is a fascinating amalgam of scenic beauty, old historic city and modern urban planning. The capital of Madhya Pradesh, the city with its lush gardens, excellent upper and lower lakes and a beautiful pink mosque, is definitely worth spending

some time.

99. Gangtok : Gangtok is the capital and largest town of the Indian state of Sikkim, situated in the lower Himalayas. Known for its clean surroundings and temperate climate, this hill station of about fifty thousand people is the centre of Sikkim's tourist industry.

100. Kanpur : Kanpur, the industrial centre of Uttar Pradesh, is known for its cotton and woollen textile industries as well as the Indian Institute of Technology, one of the premier educational institutes in the country. The city also boasts of numerous tourist attractions.

101. Surat : Surat is an industrial town, situated in the west Indian state of Gujarat. Surat is the main textile market of India as also the centre of various multinational companies involved in the field of petrochemicals, steel and cement.