Category Tourist Spots in India

               If one seeks relaxation and peace of mind. Amboli is the perfect answer. The scenic hills and the dense forests amidst the refreshing cool air make this place a paradise on Earth. Amboli, a pretty little hill station is situated at an altitude of about 690 metres in the state of Maharashtra. This tourist hotspot lies in the Sahyadri Ranges and comes under the Sindhudurg district.

               Amboli abounds in unusual flora and fauna. The source of the Hiranyakeshi River lies in the hills around Amboli village. Amboli is a haven for waterfalls. Shirgaonkar Point, Mahadevgad and the Nangarta Falls are some of the numerous waterfalls that can be found here. The Nagatta Falls provides for an excellent location for picnics and relaxing. The Hiranyakeshi Falls houses a small and archaic Shiva Temple near the mouth of its caves.

               Amboli has many viewpoints, like the Sea View Point, the Kavelsad Point, the Parikshit Point and the Mahadevgad Point. All these points offer panoramic views of the confluence of the Arabian Sea and the Konkan Coast.

               Apart of Bhutan until it was wrested by colonial Britain and joined to the Indian Territory, the hill station of Kalimpong boasts of ancient Buddhist monasteries, quaint old churches and popular temples. Situated on the lower ranges of the Himalayas, Kalimpong offers panoramic vistas of the Teesta Rangit Valley in Sikkim.

               Kalimpong is situated on the northern edge of West Bengal in eastern India and is about 53 km from the hill station of Darjeeling. The town was added to the district of Darjeeling in 1866.

                The Indian Army’s 27 Mountain Division is located on the outskirts of the town. Horticulture is important to Kalimpong – it has a flower market notable for its wide array of orchids. Nurseries, which export Himalayan grown flower bulbs, tubers and rhizomes, contribute to the economy of Kalimpong. There are numerous tourist places, attractions and activities in and around Kalimpong. There are so many lovely viewpoints offering sweeping views of Kanchenjunga and Chola range as well as of river Teesta.

               ‘What Bengal thinks today, India thinks tomorrow’, is a famous line associated with the city for having produced some of the greatest thinkers, artists, filmmakers, and writers.

               Kolkata’s recorded history began in 1690 with the arrival of the English East India Company.

               The first capital of the British in India, Kolkata has a history that’s different from that of any other city in India.

               The city was established when British moved to the small villages of Sutanati, Govindpur, and Kalikata from their trading port of Hooghly. It served as the capital of British India till 1911 and then was shifted to Delhi. The city was renamed, Kolkata in 2001. Located along the banks of river Hoogly, Kolkata is connected to Howrah by the iconic Howrah Bridge.

               The city’s colonial past is reflected in its architecture. Some famous places of attractions are Victoria Memorial Kumortuli, Mullik Ghat flower market, Botanical gardens, Magen David Synagogue etc.

               Daman and Diu have become synonymous with  blue sea, rustic beaches, picturesque villages and relics from its Portuguese past. Daman and Diu is a union territory of India and was under the rule of the Portuguese for more than 450 years. The territory comprises two distinct regions Daman and Diu, geographically separated by the Gulf of Khambhat. The state of Gujarat and Arabian Sea border the territory. The main settlement is the town of Diu.

               The influence of the Portuguese is evident in its architecture, way of life and food habits. People belonging to European, African and Indian origin have settled in Daman and Diu. Nani Daman Fort, Diu Fort, Fort of Moti Daman, Nadia Caves, Tower of Silence, Daman Freedom Memorial, Fortim do Mar, Portuguese Fort etc showcase Portuguese architecture. Besides this, Daman and Diu have many beautiful beaches too.

               The Keoladeo Ghana National Park or Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is situated in the country’s north-western state of Rajasthan. The park is renowned as a birdwatcher’s paradise.

               The Keoladeo Ghana Park is famous as one of Asia’s finest birding areas, with over 380 resident and migrant species, including the demoiselle cranes and the rare Siberian cranes. It is also an excellent place to watch mammals like golden jackal, striped hyaena, fishing cat, jungle cat, nilgai, sambar, blackbuck and wild boar. The park derives its name from the temple of Keoladeo (Shiva) and ‘ghana’ which locally means dense, implying the nature of the vegetation. During the cool winter months, it is also possible to see large Indian pythons sunning themselves.

               The park occupies an area of roughly 29 sq km and features a range of man-made wetlands and micro-habitats including low lying lands completely submerged in water, grasslands and dense tree growth.

               The Belum caves in the Vishakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh are the second largest caves in India after the Meghalaya caves. They are created naturally by the action of flowing water on limestone deposits forming stalactites and stalagmites, siphons, water galleries etc.

               The relics found in the caves are from the Buddhist era proving that Buddhist monks were living in these caves. There are other relics from older times, which prove that these caves were inhabited around 4500 BC. These ancient caves were first discovered by an English inspector of land and property called Robert Bruce Foote in 1884.

               The entrance to the caves is from a pit which was much smaller, and has been made larger now. There is a metal stairway now to climb down into, and up from the pit. In 1988, the state government declared the site protected, and the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation developed the caves as a tourist attraction in February 2002.

               Situated in the Hassan district of Karnataka, Sakleshpur is a quaint hill station that boasts a scenic environment, pleasant climate, and lofty green hills that are full of cardamom, coffee, pepper and areca plantations.

               It’s a spectacular town tucked away in the Western Ghats on the Bangalore-Mangalore highway. Sakleshpur is known for its salubrious climate, and had earned the sobriquet ‘poor man’s Ooty’ during the British rule.

               Tourists can enjoy exploring the flora and fauna of the Bisle Reserve Forest, which is just 45 km away from the city. The view of the forest is really extravagant.

               Besides, trekking to Bisle Reserve Forest and Kumara Parvatha are also the best ways to explore the rich biodiversity of the place.

               Manjarabad Fort is another major attraction, which provides an aerial view of the Western Ghats.

               The Sela Pass is the high-altitude mountain pass located in the Tawang district of the Arunachal Pradesh. It has an elevation of 4170 metres. It connects the city of Tawang to Tezpur and Guwahati and is the main road connecting Tawang with the rest of India.

               The Sela Pass is situated at a distance of 78 km from Tawang town. The pass is open throughout the year. During landslide and heavy snow the pass is shut down temporarily. Tawang district lies in close proximity to Tibet.

               The pass has hardly any vegetation, and is usually snow-covered year around. During winter, the temperature in the pass can go down to minus ten degrees. This place is snowed in most of the year, and offers excellent and heavenly views all year round.

               This part of the eastern Himalayan range is a sacred site for the Buddhists as it is believed that about 101 lakes exist in and around the Sela Pass, and each of these lakes has a huge religious significance for the Buddhist community.

               Shimoga, meaning the ‘face of Shiva’ is situated at a distance of 275 km from Bangalore, and is also known as the bread basket of Karnataka, because of the rich fertility of this region. For every travel and adventure lover Shimoga is like heaven on Earth.

               Shimoga has been officially renamed Shivamogga. It is often called the cultural capital of Karnataka, and is a place brimming with nature and beautiful landscapes. This magnificent hill station, which is the gateway to India’s beautiful Western Ghats, is a perfect tourist attraction.

               Shimoga is a true nature’s gift, spread with waterfalls, and enchanting natural scenery of hills, dense forests, flora and fauna. Its forts, swaying palms and abundant paddy fields. All these make Shimoga a picturesque locale.

               This place has many tourist attractions. One among them is Shivappa Nayaka Palace, which is located in the heart of Shimoga city, on the banks of River Tunga. This palace was built in the 16th century by the Keladi ruler, Shivappa Nayaka. There are several waterfalls around Shimoga that attract the senses of every nature buff.

               The Maikal Hills are range of hills in the state of Chhattisgarh. The Maikal Hills are an eastern part of the Satpuras in Kawardha district of Chhattisgarh.

               The hills are filled with lush green forest and the atmosphere is serene. The hills have an altitude ranging from 340 metres to 941 metres above sea level. Many rivers are formed from the foot of the hills. Tributaries of Narmada and Wainganga rivers are formed from the hills. The hills are populated by local tribes called Baigas and Gonds.

               The Kanha National Park of Madhya Pradesh is located in the Maikal Hills of the Satpuras. The park’s landmark achievement is the preservation of the rare, hard ground swamp deer (Barasingha), saving it from near extinction. Stringent conservation programmes for the overall protection of the park’s fauna and flora, makes Kanha one of the most well maintained national parks in Asia.

               Sandakphu is the highest peak in the state of West Bengal. It is the highest point of the Singalila Ridge in Darjeeling district on the West Bengal-Nepal border. The peak is located at the edge of the Singalila National Park and has a small village on the summit with a few hotels. Four of the five highest peaks in the world, Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu can be seen from the summit.

               Sandakphu is a true paradise for all adventure lovers. Trek to the highest point on this hill station and you will get a never seen before view of the Himalayan Range.

               A long stretch of the Himalayas, starting from Bhutan till Mount Everest is visible. The River Teesta flows through Sandakphu at quite a pace. The River Teesta also offers a great option for adventure sports especially river rafting. Sandakphu is the only place in the world where you will find rhododendron and silver fir forests.

               Located around 48 km away from Imphal, the capital of Manipur, the Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in northeast India. The lake is mostly famous for the floating phumdis (floating decomposed plant materials) that even host a national park. Resembling miniature islands, these phumdis are found in various forms, floating on the lake.

               The lake’s rich biological diversity comprises 233 species of aquatic plants, more than 100 species of birds, and 425 species of animals, including the Indian python and the sambhar. The Keibul Lamjao in Loktak is the only floating national park in the world. It is home to the last of the brow-antlered deer, one of the most endangered deer in the world. The park, which was initially declared to be a sanctuary in 1966, was subsequently declared a national park in 1977, through a gazette notification.

               Loktak is also a bird watchers paradise. The most commonly sighted birds in the region include the black kite, northern hill myna, lesser skylark, Burmese pied myna, and more.

               Dhanaulti, Uttarakhand, known for its quiet and serene ambience, lies on the way from Chamba to Mussoorie. It is known for its quiet environs amidst the alpine forests of deodar, rhododendron and oak.

               This town is popular among tourists mainly because of its proximity to Mussoorie, which is just 24 km away. Travellers can enjoy the mesmerizing views of the Doon Valley from this place. One of the prominent tourist attractions of Dhanaulti is the Eco-Park surrounded by deodar forests.

               In addition, the place is also popular among travellers for its potato farm, locally known as ‘Aloo Khet’. The Dashavatar Temple, New Tehri Township, Barehipani and Joranda Falls, Deogarh Fort, and Matatila Dam are some of the other tourist hotspots located nearby. Visitors can also enjoy various adventure sports like rock climbing, river crossing, hiking, and trekking in the Camp Thangdhar.

               Since the heavy snowfall during winters, tourists flock here in huge numbers.

               Nestled amidst the Palani Hills in the Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is a very popular hill station in India. Kodaikanal is also referred to as the ‘princess of hill stations’ and has a long history as a retreat.

               The location of Kodaikanal, at 2133 metres above sea level, makes it a traveller’s paradise with all its charm and charisma. The history of Kodaikanal says that it was established as a hill station by American missionaries in 1845, seeking a resort in order to keep the glare of high temperatures, and the tropical diseases of the plains at bay.

               There are many high waterfalls and ubiquitous gardens and flower beds in bloom. Kodaikanal is known for its rich flora. Among the big trees, cypress, eucalyptus and acacia are the dominant varieties. There are numerous pear trees here, and the fruits are of high quality.

               Kodaikanal has some amazing places to visit like the Guna caves and the Dolphin’s Nose.

               Coakers Walk is a great place to catch some stunning mountain views.

Picture credit: google

               If you are interested in adventure, Kasol is the right place for you. It is an ideal destination for backpackers, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts due to its scenic valley, untouched mountains, and great climate throughout the year.

               Kasol is situated in Parvati Valley, on the banks of the Parvati River, on the way between Bhuntar and Manikaran. It is located 31.2 km from Bhuntar and 5 km from Manikaran. Kasol acts as a base for nearby treks to Malana and Kheerganga.

               Kasol has good weather throughout the year and receives fair amount of snowfall from late December to February.

               Kasol is ideal for a vacation if you want to chill in the lap of nature. The picturesque spots around this surreal town have some delightful tourist destinations like Kullu, the Parvati River, Malana Village, Kheer Ganga Peak, Bhuntar Town, Manali and these are considered as the best tourist places in India.

               Kasol is often known as mini Israel because of the huge number of tourists from Israel.

               A paradise for nature-buffs, Cherrapunji is an ideal destination if you want to take a break from your monotonous life. It was known for being the wettest places on Earth, but nearby Mawsynram currently holds that distinction. Cherrapunji is ideal to experience the bliss of rains.

               There are spectacular waterfalls in Cherrapunji credited for the beautiful landscape. Among the most popular waterfalls in Cherrapunji are the Nohkalikai Falls and Dainthlen Falls.

               Cherrapunji is a sub divisional town in Meghalaya. Meghalaya state government has renamed Cherrapunji back to its original name, ‘Sohra’.

               It is blessed with profuse vegetation, containing numerous endemic species of plants, including Meghalaya subtropical forests. In general, Cherrapunji is a good place for trekking. The most popular trekking route is the one that leads to the Double decker living Root Bridge.

               There are many other living root bridges too, like the Umshiang root bridge, Ritymmen Root Bridge and Mawsaw Root Bridge.

               Beyond the dazzling royal cities of Rajasthan lie Jaisalmer, the gateway to the Thar Desert, and a popular tourist destination in India, notable for its incredible yellow stone architecture, and the Jaisalmer Fort, also known as ‘Sonar Quila’. This fort contains a royal palace and several ornate Jain temples.

               Many of the houses and temples of both the fort, and of the town below, are built of finely sculptured sandstone. Jaisalmer is situated on a level plain in the heart of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan. Jaisalmer is one of the last big towns in Rajasthan closest to the India-Pakistan border and stands in the heart of the Thar Desert. The city, also dubbed the ‘golden city’ was established in the mid-12th century by Rawal Jaisal.

               Jaisalmer have many artistic structures, and monuments of local historical importance, that attracts tourists. The Gadsisar Lake is another great attraction here. Desert Festival of Jaisalmer is the most awaited and famous cultural and colourful event that dominates the sands of Rajasthan.

               Pay a visit to Darjeeling, you will be lured by the dazzling snow peaks of Kanchenjunga overlooking the hill town, the beautiful tea gardens on the slopes of rolling hills, the orchids, pines and rhododendrons, and the cute Himalayan toy train whistling its way through the mountains.

               Darjeeling is the headquarters of the Darjeeling District which has a partially autonomous status within the state of West Bengal. It is also a popular tourist destination in India.

               One of the popular tourist attractions here is the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Darjeeling has been a popular hill station since the British established it as a rest and recreation centre for their troops in the early 19th century. Darjeeling offers a plethora of options for those seeking an adrenaline rush. Visit the Singalila National Park to catch a glimpse of the red panda or for some high altitude trekking. Colonial architecture characterizes many buildings in Darjeeling, exemplified by the Raj Bhawan and the Planters’ Club.

               Standing against the backdrop of the Vindhyas, Khajuraho presents a magnificent view to the beholder.

               It is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. It is also one of the most popular tourist spots in Madhya Pradesh. It is famous for its ancient temples that depict some of the finest art in the world. Built between 950-1050 AD by the Chandela dynasty, these temples depict various forms like meditation, spiritual teachings, kinship, wrestling, and royalty.

               Some of the famous temples in the complex are the Lakshmana Temple, the Vishwanatha Temple and the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple.

               The temples in Khajuraho are broadly divided into three parts: the Eastern group, the Southern Group and the Western group of temples. The Khajuraho Dance Festival is held every year in February. It features various classical Indian dances set against the backdrop of this architectural marvel. The Khajuraho temple complex hosts a very good sound-and-light show every evening.

               If you are an adventurer and a wildlife enthusiast, Kaziranga is the place for you. Kaziranga National Park which is also a world heritage site, hosts two-thirds of the world’s greater one-horned rhinoceros.

               Kaziranga also boasts the highest density of tigers among the protected areas in the world, and was declared a tiger reserve in 2006. Though sighting of tigers is difficult, because of the tall grasses that provide excellent camouflage, their presence can be felt everywhere by way of pug marks, kills, and territorial markings. The park is home to large breeding populations of elephants, wild water buffalo, and swamp deer.

               First established in 1908 as a reserved forest, it subsequently was designated a wildlife sanctuary before becoming a national park in 1974. Kaziranga National Park is a birding paradise; the grasslands are a raptor country that can be seen on safari makes a remarkable experience. Huge numbers of migratory birds descend on the park’s lakes and marshy areas during winters, including grey-lag geese, bar headed geese, gadwall, falcated duck, red crested pochard, and the northern shoveller.

               Located at about 1,600 metres above the sea level, Munnar is a beautiful hill station in the district of ldukki, Kerala.

               Once a summer resort for the British, Munnar is known for its pleasant climate and pristine beauty. The rolling hills covered in mist, intersected by the winding road, the dark emerald green coloured plantations, and the few lone houses in their midst, will make you fall in love with this place instantly.

               Munnar is also an ideal place for nature lovers, wildlife lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. You can indulge in boating, trekking and paragliding. Munnar rises as three mountain streams merge – Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala.

               Among the flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flower which bathes the hills in blue once in every twelve years will bloom next in 2018. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2,695 metres.

               Some of the main attractions here are the Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Pallivasal, Munnar Tea Museum, trekking to Chokramudy, Kundala Dam etc.

               If you wish to see two million tulips over 60 hectares of the Kashmiri landscape at an altitude of 1706 metres, you must visit Asia’s largest tulip garden — the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden.

               One of the best gardens to visit in the month of April, this Tulip Garden was formerly known as the Siraj Bagh. The garden covers the banks of Dal Lake with a colourful carpet of flowers. This Tulip Garden was created in the year 2007. Overlooking the picturesque Dal Lake, the enchanting garden sprawls over the foothills of the Zabarwan mountain range.

               The climatic condition of Kashmir is ideally suited for tulips. The garden is built on a sloping ground in a terraced fashion, consisting of seven terraces. Apart from tulips, many other species of flowers, including hyacinths and daffodils have been added as well.

               The Tulip Festival is an annual celebration that aims to showcase the range of flowers in the garden as a part of the tourism efforts undertaken by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir.

               A popular weekend getaway from Mumbai, Matheran is located just 90 km from the big city. Perched on an elevation of about 800 metres on the Western Ghats in Maharashtra, the hill station has a pleasant climate. Literally meaning ‘forest on the head’, Matheran refers to the thick woods at the top of the hill. This is the smallest hill station in India.

               Matheran was first frequented in the mid-19th century by British officials and visitors from Bombay, and it has continued to be a popular tourist destination. It is Asia’s only automobile-free hill station. Automobiles are not permitted here, and with ponies transporting luggage, people on horseback and the lack of tarred roads, Matheran retains the vintage charm of hill stations developed by the British.

               There are around 38 designated look-out points in Matheran, including the Panorama Point that provides a 360-degree view of the surrounding area, and also the Neral town.

               The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is the highlight of a visit to the popular hill settlement of Ooty, in India’s southern state of Tamil Nadu.

               The Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR) was built by the British in 1908. NMR is the only rack railway in India. Although the railway was proposed in 1854, it wasn’t completed until 1908, as the rocky terrain and thickly forested hills made the work difficult. A Swiss inventor, Riggenbach, worked on the first part of this mountain railway, and built up the initial line up to Coonoor by the year 1899.

               The railway mostly relies on its fleet of steam locomotives. Covering a distance of 46 km in around 5 hours, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway takes tourists from Mettupalayam to Ooty. This is a truly amazing journey that takes tourists from a height of 325 to 2203 metres. The uniqueness of this rail line lies in it being the steepest one in Asia. It covers a total distance of 116 km and crosses 250 bridges and 16 tunnels.

            Though it was among the underexplored destinations, this hill station, thanks to its picturesque landscapes has earned a lot of attention from tourists across India.

            Chikmagalur is a town located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka. It is located at the foothills of the Mullayanagiri Range. The town with its favourable climate and coffee estates attracts tourists from around the state.

            Chikmagalur also has many wildlife tourism spots and adventure sports locations. Hill stations, beautiful waterfalls and national parks – Chikmagalur has them all!  

            The hill station is sometimes referred to as ‘coffee land of Karnataka’ because of its numerous coffee plantations. There are many waterfalls located in this district like the famous Hebbe Falls, Shanti Falls and several others.

            Located close to the city of Bangalore, it is a popular weekend getaway for the people of India’s Silicon Valley, Bangalore. Chikmagalur attracts tourists due to its hill stations like Baba Budan giri, Kudremukha, Mullayanagiri, Kalasa, Jayapura and Mudigere.

               Rishikesh, a most tranquil place in Uttarakhand, surrounded by hills, and bisected by the wide and sluggish Ganges, is often claimed to be the ‘yoga capital of the world’. The city is located in the foothills of the Himalayas. It is known as the gateway to the Garhwal Himalayas.

               Located near the Himalayas, Rishikesh has been revered as one of the major pilgrimage destinations since ancient times. The Ganges is the river that flows through the city, and rafting in its waters is one of the popular tourist attractions for tourists, both from India, and abroad.

               Rishikesh is considered as the adventure capital of India. For adventure seekers, Rishikesh is the ideal place suggested for starting their trekking expeditions to the Himalayan peaks and for white water river rafting. India’s first fixed platform bungee jump destination is at Mohan Chutti, a pristine location tucked in the Shivaliks, near Rishikesh.

               There are lots of holy temples and ashrams here, including the Vanprastha Ashram, Omkarananda Ashram, Sivananda Ashram and Parmarth Niketan.

               Would you like to tour the captivating backwater destinations? Then you should be spending part of your vacation at the backwater stretches of Kerala.

               Kerala’s backwaters are many and varied. The scenic backwaters of Kerala comprise serene stretches of lakes, canals and lagoons, located parallel to the coast of the Arabian Sea. The backwater regions of Kerala are among the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

               The network includes five large lakes linked by canals, manmade and natural, fed by 38 rivers. The Vembanad is the largest of the lakes, covering an area of 2033 sq km. The tranquil backwater cruises are a once in a lifetime experience.

               Alappuzha, known as the ‘Venice of the East’, is especially popular for its houseboat cruises. Kerala houseboats are an integral part of the vast expanse of waterways, and form the backbone of Kerala’s backwater tourism. These houseboats serve as the most popular mode of transportation for tourists.

               Standing majestically on the banks of the Yamuna River, the Taj Mahal, for most people, is synonymous with India’s beauty. The name ‘Taj Mahal’ was derived from the name of Shah Jahan’s wife, Mumtaz Mahal, and means ‘crown of buildings’.

               Shah Jahan got this monument constructed in the memory of his beloved wife. The purity of the white marble, the exquisite ornamentation, precious gemstones used, and its picturesque location, all make a visit to the Taj Mahal gain a place amongst the most sought-after tours in the world.

               Nothing short of an architectural marvel, it’s no wonder that the Taj stands proud at being one of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World’.

               Ustad-Ahmad Lahori was the main architect of the Taj Mahal. It was commissioned in 1632. The construction was completed in 1643, but work continued on other phases of the project for another 10 years.

               Masons, stone-cutters, painters, calligraphers, dome builders and other artisans were requisitioned from the whole of the Mughal Empire, and also from Central Asia.

               Home to one of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World’ – the Taj Mahal – Agra is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. It is as loved by Indians as it is by foreigners who throng here in large numbers to admire its beauty.

               Agra is a city on the banks of the River Yamuna in Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the most populous cities in Uttar Pradesh, and the 24th most populous in India. The city stands as testimony to the great amount of architectural activity of the Mughals, most notably the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri.

               Right from the epic Mahabharata to the Mughal dynasty, Agra has been monumental, and has played a significant role in shaping India’s history. From the Persian Gardens on the banks of the Yamuna, to monuments and mausoleums, this great city’s golden age started during the rule of the Mughals. Agra Fort attracts many tourists. Largely overshadowed by Taj Mahal, this fort is one of the finest Mughal forts in India.

               Gokarna is a small temple town in the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. It is a famous pilgrim centre, and also one of the top destinations of Karnataka tourism because of its beautiful and pristine beaches.

               The name of the town Gokarna is derived from two words, Go and Karna, which means cow’s ear. According to mythology, Lord Shiva appeared from a cow’s ear, after he was sent to Patal Lok by Lord Brahma.

               The town is located at the confluence of two rivers, Aganashini and Gangavali, and the place where the rivers converge, forms a shape that is similar to the ear of a cow, hence the name Gokarna. Gokarna is known for its beaches. The main Gokarna Beach, in town, and Kudle beach are west facing. Om Beach, Half-moon Beach, Paradise Beach and Belekan Beach are south facing.

               This town is now an emerging beach destination that offers something to different types of tourists with its natural beauty and its history steeped in mythology.

               Ziro is a town in the Lower Subansiri district in Arunachal Pradesh. It is known for its pine-covered hilly slopes lowering towards the ground, its forests, beautiful paddy fields, and active cultural life.

               It has been a favourite town for World Heritage Site for a number of years now.

               Apatani Plateau, as Ziro is popularly known, is situated at an altitude of 1500 metres above sea level. It is the perfect place to connect with nature. It really is one of the most beautiful valleys in the country, with layered rice fields, and blue skies, surrounded by a ring of deep green forests and the towering jagged Eastern Himalayan range in the distance.

               There are many places of interest in Ziro. The Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Meghna Cave Temple, Kile Pakho, Ziro Puto, Dolo Mando, Dilopolyang Maniipolyang, Pine Grove, Bamboo Grove, Tipi Orchid Research Centre etc. are a few among them.

               The Great Rann of Kutch is a salt marsh located in the Thar Desert in the Kutch District of Gujarat. The Great Rann of Kutch spans an area of 7505.22 sq km and is reputed to be one of the largest salt deserts in the world. This area has been inhabited by the Kutchi people.

               It is home to a wide array of flora and fauna. The area is very famous for the Indian wild ass, found in the Indian Wild Ass Sanctuary there, which is the largest in India.

               The Government of Gujarat hosts an annual, three month long festival during winter called the ‘Rann Utsav’. Rann Utsav gives visitors not only a chance to experience full moon on salt deserts but also get a taste of the local culture, cuisine, and hospitality.

               The beauty of the Rann increases manifold when a riot of colours are splashed when people wearing colourful, ethnic wear perform folk dances and music during the ‘Rann Utsav’.

               Kamshet is a hill station in Maharashtra. It is 16 km away from the twin hill stations of Khandala and Lonavala.

               Luscious green cover, placid lakes and enticing hilly terrains make it a perfect holiday destination. Kamshet has many small houses that are built in the traditional style – with mud, thatch, and reeds. The hills in and around Kamshet are dotted with ancient cave temples and medieval fortresses. Nestled in the Western Ghats about 110 km from Mumbai, Kamshet straddles the ancient trade route between the Konkan region and Pune.

               The world-class paragliding facilities attract a large number of flying-sport aficionados to Kamshet. It is one of the two main paragliding spots in Maharashtra.

               It also has many beautiful lakes such as Vadivale Lake, Thokarwadi and Pawna. Other attractions are Caves of Karla, Bedsa and Bhaja, and Temples of Wadeshwar, Kondeshwar and Sangameshwar.

               Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is a hill station located in Karnataka famous for its coffee and tea plantations. Coorg is called the ‘Scotland of India’ and also the ‘Kashmir of the South’, because of its majestic beauty and cool climate.

               The rain-drenched forests and mountain ranges provide a unique ecosystem in which many species of birds, animals, and plants find sustenance.

               It also scores as a popular destination because of its culture and people. The Kodavas, a local clan specializing in martial arts, are especially notable for their keen hospitality. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Kodagu include Talakaveri, Bhagamandala, Nisargadhama, Abbey Falls, Dubare, Nagar hole National Park, Iruppu Falls, and the Tibetan Buddhist Golden Temple.

               Located 18 km away from the state capital of Kerala, Kovalam is a haven of serenity. It’s a pleasant tourist spot in ‘God’s Own Country’. It’s a magnificent beach supported by sharply mounting headlands, enclosed by coconut palms.

               Kovalam is known to be home to a varied range of flora and fauna. It also has a bird sanctuary, which is famous for having migratory birds of different species. Kovalam is among the most prominent tourist spots in India. It is very popular among tourists, who arrive mostly from Europe and the US. There are a large number of beach resorts in and around Kovalam.

               Kovalam is blessed with a moderate climate all through the year. The climate of Kovalam is of a balanced tropical form. The main tourist attractions here are Karamana River, Vizhinjam Lighthouse, Samudra Beach, Vellayani Lake, Kovalam Art Gallery, Valiyathura Pier, Halcyon Castle, Neyyar Dam and Hawwah Beach.

               Popularly known as the ‘cultural capital of Karnataka’, Mysore is a place that beautifully blends the splendour of history with the living vibrancy of traditions and culture. It is located in the foothills of the Chamundi Hills.

                It was the lush green sandalwood forests that gave the city names like ‘city of palaces’, and ‘sandalwood city’. Recently the city was declared the ‘second cleanest city’ in India. The rich cultural heritage and historical significance of this glorious city attracts tourists from around the world.

                Mysore is a major tourist destination in its own right, and serves as a base for other tourist attractions in the vicinity.

               Other than the famous Mysore Palace, the Jaganmohan Palace, the Sand Sculpture Museum, the Jayalakshmi Vilas and the Lalitha Mahal are other palaces in the city.

               Chamundeshwari Temple, Chamundi Hills, St. Philomena’s Church are other places of tourist attractions. The Mysore Zoo also attracts tourists from around the world.

               The only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu, is located 475 km from Jaipur, in the Sirohi district on the highest peak of the Aravalli range. It is known for its Dilwara Jain temples. With coniferous trees and flowering shrubs covering the hillside, the climate in Mount Abu remains quite cool, making it the summer capital of Rajasthan.

               The highest peak on the mountain is Guru Shikhar at 1,722 m above sea level. It is referred to as ‘an oasis in the desert’ as its heights are home to rivers, lakes and waterfalls.

               The Dilwara Jain temples are a complex of temples, carved out of white marble, that were built between the 11th and 13th centuries AD. The historical Achalgarh Fort, built in the 14th century by Rana Kumbha of Mewar, encloses several Jain temples, including the Achaleswar Mahadev Temple, and the Kantinath Temple.

               In the heart of the city is the Nakki Lake, another attraction for tourist to Mount Abu. It also constitutes ecotourism sites such as Arna Village. The setting sun scene on Mount Abu is famous among tourists.

               Puducherry, also known as Pondicherry, situated on the east coast of India, 135 km south of Chennai. The union territory of Puducherry was under French rule until 1954. Even years after the French left it, Pondicherry has managed to retain its French influence with Mediterranean style houses.

               One of the prominent attractions here is the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, founded in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo and a French woman called ‘Mother’. The Sri Aurobindo Ashram still operates from Puducherry.

               A major attraction in the area is Auroville, an experimental township where people from all countries, races, castes, creeds and political ideologies can live together in peace and progressive harmony.

               Made up of four small unconnected districts- Puducherry, Karaikal, Yanam and Mahe – the union territory of Puducherry is bordered by Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala.

               Other attractions in Puducherry are the Police museum, Manakula Vinayagar temple and the Immaculate Conception cathedral. The quiet beaches in Puducherry are really wonderful too.

Picture credit: google

               Gangtok is one of the prominent destinations for travel enthusiasts simply because of its Himalayan environment. Gangtok, capital of Sikkim, is located in the eastern Himalayan range, at an elevation of 1,650 metres.

               The state is bestowed with a great variety of vegetation and undisturbed valleys, total sanitation, peaceful environment, hospitable and humble people and a rich cultural heritage. It is known for its scenic beauty and striking views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world.

               Tourism, which peaks in spring and summer, is the main source of income in Gangtok.

               Gangtok is surrounded by dense forests which are full of poplar, oak and elm trees. From coniferous green trees of the wet alpine zone to rare orchids and bamboos, this region has it all.

              Kanchenjunga view point, Teesta River rafting, the Nathula Pass, and Buddhist monasteries, including the Enchey monastery, are the major attractions.

               Binsar, in Uttarakhand, nestled amidst the beautiful Himalayas every tourist’s dream destination. A few kilometres away from Nainital, Binsar is surrounded by Alpine forests.

               The summer capital of the erstwhile Chand kings of Kumaon, Binsar is one of the most scenic spots in the Himalayas. Perched at an elevation of 2420 metres, Binsar is known for offering spell-binding views of the majestic Himalayan peaks such as Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, Panchchuli, and Kedarnath.

               Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1988 for the conservation and protection of the shrinking broad leaf oak forests of the Central Himalayan region, and it has over 200 bird species.

               The main attraction of Binsar is the 300 kilometres of majestic and panoramic view of Himalayan peaks from Zero Point. Apart from this, the popular tourist attractions located in the vicinity of Binsar include the Bineshwar Mahadev Temple, Binsar Sanctuary Museum, and the Kasar Devi Temple.

               The temple city of Mahabalipuram (also called Mamallapuram) is situated just 75 km off Chennai, on the Bay of Bengal coast, in Tamil Nadu. This place, a UNESCO world heritage site, is known for a group of monuments that are a collection of 7th and 8th century religious monuments.

               There are ten major rathas, ten mandapas, two rock bas-reliefs and three structural temples. The monuments were built during the Pallava dynasty.

               The site has the largest open-air rock reliefs in the world. The site, restored after 1960, has been managed by the Archaeological Survey of India.

               The Mahabalipuram Beach, recognized as one of the pristine beaches of Tamil Nadu, attracts thousands of tourists every year. There are many breathtaking attractions and places here, offering an ideal spot for holidaying.

               Known for its numerous tea estates, the queen of hill stations has several picturesque picnic spots with lofty mountains, dense forests, and scenic grasslands. Its natural environment attracts tourists and it is a popular summer destination.

               Between April and June, Ooty serves as a getaway from the heat with its pleasant weather.

               Ooty, also known as Ootacamund, Udagamandalam or Udhagai, is the capital of Nilgiris district in the state of Tamil Nadu. Ooty was established by the British as the summer headquarters of the Madras government.

               The Ooty Botanical Gardens which were laid out in 1847, cover an area of about 22 hectares, and contains about 650 species of plants and trees, including the fossil of a tree believed to be more than 20 million years old. The Doddabetta Peak, the highest point in the district, is another tourist attraction.

               Alibaug is a coastal town in the Raigad district of Maharashtra. Situated 30 km south of Mumbai in the Raigad district, Alibaug was an important naval base of the Maratha king, Shivaji.

               Alibaug is an all-season destination. Alibaug is known for its abundant greenery and scenic landscape. Alibaug and the surrounding areas were of strategic importance in the past, and the Marathas, the Portuguese and the British, vied for its control.

               The sea port of Kolaba, which Shivaji built in 1680, is also the town’s most popular attraction. Alibaug was developed by the Maratha admiral, Kanhoji Aangre.

               The other attractions in Alibaug are the Alibaug Fort, Varsoli Beach, and Nagaon Beach.

               Celebrated for its picturesque beauty, Mahabaleshwar is a beautiful hill station nestled in the Satara district in Maharashtra. It is located in the Sahyadri mountain range.

               It served as the summer capital of Bombay province during the British Raj. Its colonial past is reflected in its architecture. The British-built mansions, cottages and bungalows around the town, only add to the overall charm of the city. Several of the viewing points in Mahabaleshwar are named after the British officers who visited it.

               Lodwick Point gets its name from Col. Lodwick, who, in April 1824, climbed up the mountain face with a contingent of soldiers and Indian guides. Arthur’s Seat is named after Arthur Malet, and so on. Mahabaleshwar is also famous for its strawberry gardens and honey.

               Being a famous hill station in the Western Ghats, Mahabaleshwar is one of the few remaining evergreen forests of India.

               Needle Hole Point, Arthur’s Seat, Sunrise Point, Kate’s Point, Three Monkey Point, and Venna Lake are some of the popular attractions in Mahabaleshwar.

               Kanyakumari is a town in the Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu. 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 pilgrim centre, it is famous for its beautiful views of sunrise and sunset over the waters. On full moon evenings locally called Chitra Pournami, one can also see the moon rise and sun set at the same time. The multicoloured sand is a unique feature of the beach here. The name comes from the Devi Kanya Kumari Temple in the region.

               Kanyakumari was once referred to as the Alexandria of the East. This place has been a great centre for art, culture, civilization, and pilgrimage for years.

               Since the early 1970s, tourism has been an industry in the town. Because of this, it is one of the few small towns in South India where one can hear many of the different languages of India spoken in the street.

               Kanyakumari has many places of interest for visit such as the Kumari Amman Temple, Gandhi Memorial, Vivekananda Memorial, and Thiruvalluvar statue.

               Khajjiar is a popular hill station about 24 km from Dalhousie in Himachal Pradesh. One of the places in the world that bears tropical resemblance to Switzerland, Khajjiar is situated at a height of 2000 metres above sea level, and bestowed with natural beauty and a pleasant climate. Vast expanse of green meadows and dense forests, besides vistas of majestic snow-clad Himalayan peaks make Khajjiar a popular destination among tourists.

               Willy T. Blazer, Vice Counselor, and Head of Chancery of Switzerland in India put Khajjiar on the world tourism map by calling it ‘mini Switzerland’. He also put a sign board of a yellow Swiss hiking footpath showing Khajjiar’s distance from the Swiss capital Berne-6194 kilometres!

               Khajjiar is also called the Gulmarg of Himachal Pradesh, and serves as the starting point for treks to Chamba, and Dalhousie.

               Panchgani, also called Paachgani, is a majestic hill station at an altitude of 1293 metres above sea level. It is bestowed with beautiful colonial period cottages, forests, cool ambience, woody regions, and much more.

               Tucked away in the Satara district of Maharashtra, it is renowned for the many premier residential educational institutions there. It is named after the five hills located in this region. The climate here remains stable and pleasant throughout the year. The lush green scenery, fresh air, and view of the Krishna River are simply breathtaking. One can enjoy a spectacular view of Krishna River, which accompanies you all the way through, until you reach Panchgani.

               A summer retreat for the British, Panchgani owes its exotic array of fauna to its initial inhabitants. It is a dwelling for several plant species like silver oaks and poinsettia which enhance the beauty of this place. Panchgani has many tourist destinations like Sydney Point, Table Land, Parsi Point, Devil’s Kitchen and the Mapro Garden.

               The Dudhsagar Falls is a four-tiered waterfall situated inside the Bhagwan Mahavir wildlife sanctuary in the Sanguem taluk of Goa, close to the border with Karnataka. It is about 60 km from the state capital, Panaji.

               One of the most scenic waterfalls in India, Dudhsagar literally means the ‘sea of milk’. According to legend, the waterfall was once the abode of a beautiful princess. The princess used to drink sweetened milk from a golden jug after she took a bath. One day, she spotted a prince watching her while she drank the milk. She poured the milk to form a curtain to hide her modesty.

               Dudhsagar Falls is amongst India’s tallest waterfalls, with a height of 310 metres, and an average width of 30 metres. The falls are perched high on the peaks of the Western Ghats on Sanguem taluk and are ravishing, especially during monsoons.

               Trekking to the waterfalls is the most popular activity and the path passes through steep mountain terrain.

               The capital of Uttarakhand, Dehradun, is a gateway to some of the most popular hill stations in the country like Nainital and Mussoorie. It lies between the Ganga and Yamuna Rivers, two of the most prominent water bodies in the country.

               The city is famous for its picturesque landscape and slightly milder climate, and provides a gateway to the surrounding region. The landscape of Dehradun gives the city a majestic charm that complements its beautiful temples and structures. Dehradun is very near to some of India’s most popular pilgrimage sites such as Haridwar and Rishikesh.

               Some of the attractive places to visit are Laxman Siddh, Tapkeshwar Temple, Santala Devi Temple, and Ram Rai Gurudwara. Some of the other prominent places in Dehradun are the Malsi Deer Park, Sahastradhara, and the Indian Military Academy.

               Dehradun has always been famous for different sports such as ice skating, and cricket, and is also home to the first ice rink in India.

               Commonly known as the ‘Lake District of India’, Nainital is one of the most beautiful hill stations in North India. Nainital is surrounded by mountains on three sides.

               Situated at an altitude of 2,084 metres above sea level, Nainital is set in a valley containing a pear-shaped lake, surrounded by mountains.

               Nainital used to be the summer capital of the United Provinces during the British era, and remained so for many years even after independence. The British were the first to ‘discover’ Nainital as a holiday resort in 1841. Today, it has grown into a highly popular tourist destination. Packed around a wide, lush volcanic lake, Nainital is Kumaon’s biggest town, and favourite hill retreat. Many hotels are set in the hills around the lake. There is a bustling market and hillside viewpoints facing the distant Himalayan peaks.

               Nainital, in the Kumaon hills, maintains pleasant weather throughout the year. Some of the other places of tourist interest are the Mall, now known as the Govind Ballabh Pant Marg.

               Lonavala, a popular hill station, is a part of the Sahyadri slopes between Pune and Mumbai. Tourism peaks during the monsoon season. With lots of waterfalls, lakes and hills around, Lonavala is frequented by all sorts of people, especially hikers and trekkers.

               This tourist destination has many attractions to its name like the Bhaja caves, Bushi dam, Karla caves, and Rajmachi fort, Ryewood Park, among others. The host of caves like Bhaja, Bedsa and Karla, are believed to be the reason why Lonavala derives its name from the Sanskrit word lonavli, which means caves.

               The hilly landscape makes it an ideal destination for adventure sports such as trekking, fishing, and camping. Lord Elphinstone, the Governor of Bombay Presidency in 1871, is credited with the discovery of Lonavala.

               Another place of interest is the Tungi Fort; one of the forts captured by Malik Ahmad nears the village of Karjat, known for its natural strength. Several forts including Lohagad, and Tikona were important battle stations during Shivaji’s reign, and fell into Mughal hands under the ‘Treaty of Purandar’.

Pictures credit: google

               Auli is one of the less explored hill stations in India, located in the northern state of Uttarakhand. Auli is towards the north of the state, and forms a part of the Garhwal mountain range. It is at a distance of 16 km from Joshimath, on the Badrinath route.

               The slopes, which are as high as 3050 metres above sea level, are covered with dense deodar and oak forests, and this often reduces the velocity of the chilly winds to the minimum. The slopes offer a panoramic view of many a famous Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi, Kamet, Mana Parvat and Dunagiri.

               Auli is known for its enthralling ski retreats and beautiful surroundings. Some of the well-known attractions surrounding the vicinity are Auli Artificial Lake, Joshimath, Winter Ski Resort, Trishul Peak and much more. The slopes are intended for both professional skiers and novices. The Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Limited, a state government agency, which takes care of this resort, and the Uttarakhand Tourism Department conduct winter sport competitions at Auli to encourage skiing in India.

               Situated off the coast of Kerala, Lakshadweep is spread over 36 islands and surrounded by 4,200 sq km of lagoon rich in marine wealth and is one of the most spectacular tropical island systems.

               The ten inhabited islands are Agatti, Amini, Andrott, Bitra, Chetlat, Kadmat, Kalpeni, Kavaratti, Kiltan and Minicoy. The precious heritage of ecology and culture is supported by an extremely fragile eco-system. Most of the islands are endowed with the beauty of coral reefs, sandy beaches, unpolluted and clear water and hospitable settings. Due to its isolation and scenic appeal, Lakshadweep was already known as a tourist attraction.

               Water sport activities such as scuba diving, wind surfing, snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, canoeing; water skiing, yachting and night sea voyages are popular activities among tourists. Tourists flock to these islands throughout the year, except during the south-west monsoon months, when the seas are extremely rough.

               Gulmarg is a town, a hill station, and a popular skiing destination in Jammu and Kashmir. The beauty of Gulmarg and its proximity to Srinagar makes it one of the most popular hill stations in India. Originally called Gaurimarg, Gulmarg got its current name from Sultan Yusuf Shah in the 16th century.

               The town of Gulmarg is not just a mountain resort which boasts of exceptional beauty, but it also has other claims to fame like the highest golf course in the world, and India’s premier ski resort which has earned it the title of the ‘heartland of winter sports in India’.

               The picturesque landscape offers myriad options for sight-seeing in Gulmarg. It’s not so much a town as a twisting 4 km long loop of road ringing the undulating ‘meadow of flowers’ for which it’s named.

               There are many tourist attractions in Gulmarg like Gondola Lift, Gulmarg Ski Area, Golf Course, Apharwat Peak, Khilanmarg, Tangmarg, Verinag, Alpather Lake, Ferozpore Nallah, and much more.

               Known for its pleasant climate and natural beauty, Dalhousie is one of the most famous hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. Dalhousie is located in the district of Chamba at an elevation of around 2,000 metres.

               Dalhousie was established in 1854 by the British Empire’s government as a summer retreat for its officials. It was acquired from the Raja of Chamba by the British, and was named after its founder, Lord Dalhousie, the British Governor-General in India. The fragrant pines, rhododendron and oaks, along with several other types of trees, cover the slopes of the mountains. This scenic hill station is framed by the River Ravi flowing at the base of the town. Dalhousie is one of the most visited hill stations in the country.

               There are several amazing places to visit in this hill station like Kalatop, Dainkund and Panch Pula. Subhash Baoli and Lohali village are other popular tourist attractions.

               Situated along the Konkan coast, Goa is the smallest state in India in terms of its area, and the fourth smallest by population.

               Goa has only two districts – North Goa and South Goa. The boundaries of Goa are defined in the north by the Terekhol River which separates it from Maharashtra, and in the east and south by Karnataka, and in the west by the Arabian Sea. Goa was under Portuguese rule for about 450 years until it was annexed by India in 1961.

               Panaji is the capital of Goa, and is the third largest city after Vasco and Margao. Goa is one of India’s most popular holiday destinations, with its idyllic beaches, lush paddy fields, coconut plantations, and villages dotted with pretty whitewashed churches and grand mansions.

              Goa has rich flora and fauna, owing to its location on the Western Ghats range, a biodiversity hotspot.

               Beaches like Baga and Calangute offer jet-skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, water scooter rides, and more.

               Goa is visited by large numbers of tourists.

               Manali is located at an altitude of about 2050 metres above mean sea level and is one of the main tourist towns of Kullu Valley. Only forty kilometres away from Kullu to the north, Manali is situated near the end of the valley, on the national highway.

               Manali is the most beautiful destination in Himachal Pradesh. It serves as the gateway to Lahaul and the Spiti district, as well as Leh.

               The town has a reputation of a popular tourist hub that attracts thousands of visitors every year. Manali has spectacular views of snowcapped peaks and wooded slopes. The River Beas rushes along its rocky course amid grassy meadows carpeted with wild flowers, and wagtails hop along from stone to stone along the stream’s edge.

               Manali, with its mountaineering institute, is a popular base for trekking in summer and skiing in winter. There are plenty of tourist attractions surrounding the town like the Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Beas Kund, Chandrakhani Pass, Pandoh Dam in Kullu, and much more.

Picture credit : google

               Roopkund Lake is one of the most mysterious places in India. This frozen lake which glorifies the beauty of the Himalayas, has a mystery story to it. The Roopkund Lake has a lot of traditional myths attached to it.

               Roopkund has attracted attention because of the human skeletal remains that are visible at its bottom when the snow melts. Scientists have concluded that the skeletons of about 200 people discovered near the frozen lake belonged to the people of a 9th century Indian tribe who died due to a hailstorm. The skeletons were first found by a British forest guard in 1942. Initially, it was believed that the skeletons were those of Japanese soldiers who had died while crossing that route during World War II.

               Alpine forests, green meadows, and snow-capped mountains are the specialities of the region.

               The Valley of Flowers national park is located near Badrinath in the Chamoli district of the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand state. It is about 300 km from Haridwar, and 500 km from New Delhi. This national park is famous for its meadows of alpine flowers and outstanding natural beauty.

               The valley of flowers was discovered in 1931. This lush region is also home to some rare and endangered animal species, like the Asiatic black deer, snow leopard, musk deer, red fox, brown bear and blue sheep. Birds found in the park include the Himalayan monal pheasant, and other high altitude birds. This reserve is in the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves since 2004.

               While for the most part the valley remains covered with snow, during the summer months, it comes alive with a riot of colours, which makes it one of the most beautiful places in India.

               Havelock Island is one of the most pristine and scenic islands of the Andaman and Nicobar group. Its sparkling white sand beaches, transparent sea water, plush greenery, and serene surroundings are tempting and fascinating. It is one of the populated islands in the Andaman group, with an area of 113 sq km. It is located 39 km of north-east of Port Blair. It belongs to the South Andaman administrative district.

               Havelock Island is the largest of the islands that comprise a chain of islands to the east of Great Andaman in the Andaman Islands.

               From scuba diving to parasailing, and elephant rides on the beach to game fishing, the list has it all to cater to all kinds of travellers. Havelock Island offers one of Asia’s best beaches, famous for its swimming elephants and unbeatable reefs. Although there are coral reefs, it’s the marine life here – dolphins, turtles and very large fish – that make it so interesting.

               Radhanagar Beach on the western coast, also known as Number 7 Beach, is one of the most popular beaches on Havelock, and was named “Best Beach in Asia” by Time Magazine in 2004.

            Known as the ‘Valley of Gods’, Kullu is a cluster of beautiful valleys in Himachal Pradesh. Located between the majestic Himalayas and the River Beas, Kullu is situated at an altitude of 1278 metres.

            With its developed and tourist-oriented economy, this beautiful place is considered as the backbone of the state. The valley is famous for its temples, beauty, and its majestic hills covered with pine and deodar forest and sprawling apple orchards. Kullu was earlier known as Kulanthpitha, meaning ‘the ending point of inhabitable world’.

            Kullu is a hotspot for adventure sports. Trekking, river rafting, mountaineering, paragliding, angling, and hiking over the Himalayan glaciers are some of the activities that Kullu offers.

            Kullu valley is sandwiched between the Pir Panjal, Lower Himalayan and Great Himalayan Ranges. The valley has varied biodiversity. It has some of the rarest of animals like the Himalayan tahr, Western tragopan, monal and the Himalayan brown bear.

               Ladakh, often known as ‘the land of high passes’ is an extraordinary tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir that extends from the Kunlun mountain range to the main Great Himalayas to the south. Ladakh is renowned for its remote mountain beauty and culture. It is a sparsely populated region.

               Leh is the erstwhile capital of the kingdom of Ladakh. It is one of the coldest deserts in the world, located at a distance of 434 km from Srinagar, and 474 km from Manali in Himachal Pradesh. Leh is also famous for the Leh Palace, the former mansion of the royal family of Ladakh.

               Buddhist monasteries dominate the Ladakh landscape. Colourfully clad with flags and wheels, they have become popular tourist attractions.

               The scenic beauty, the rugged terrain and the majestic mountains wrap this enchanting place. The road access requires crossing tortuous high passes, which close altogether from around October to May. Tourism is the main source of livelihood for Ladakhis. The Indian Army maintains a strong presence in Ladakh, due to its strategic location.

picture credit: google

               The Dal Lake is an enticing spot in the lap of Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir. The lake is also dubbed as the ‘Jewel of Srinagar’.

               The Dal Lake is part of a natural wetland that covers an area of about 21 sq km, which includes the floating gardens. The floating gardens are known for the lotus flowers that blossom during the months of July and August.

               The Dal Lake is lined by gardens and parks. The best views of the lake can be seen from the Shalimar Garden and Nishat Garden. There are many houseboats floating around in the lake carrying tourists. The lake is also an important source for commercial operations in fishing and water plant harvesting.

Picture credit: google

               Do you fancy a wonderful abode in the Himalayas for your holidays? Then you should visit the exotic destination of Shimla. At a distance of 348 km from New Delhi, Shimla is one of the most popular hill stations in India. It is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, and is popularly referred as the ‘queen of hills’.

               Covering an area of 18 sq km at a height of 2206 metres, Shimla is surrounded by pine, deodar and oak forests. The colonial architecture and the famous skiing facilities mostly attract tourists to Shimla. Besides being the ultimate summer retreat, it remains an ideal spot for adventure sports. The city also has the largest natural ice skating rink in south East Asia.

               Shimla is one of India’s renowned tourist spots. It is full of reverberations of its former role as the summer capital of British India. The Kali Bari Temple, Annandale, Vice Regal Lodge, Christ Church, The Ridge and Jakhu Temple are the top Shimla tourist places in Shimla.

               The Kalka-Shimla Railway, a mountain railway, was built in 1898, and its toy trains still ply between the two stations, passing through many tunnels.