Indian Destinations

Jeep Safari in India

2008-10-17T01:34:00.000-07:00

Jeep Safari in India is becoming a popular adventure sport among the local as well as in foreign tourist. It was very difficult to explore mountain regions in the past but now it is very much easy through Jeep Safari. Jeep safari is the mean to explore and visit out of the magnificent temples, local houses, weaving and village life, hot springs, lush forests, abundant flowers and bird life. An adventurous tour to any part of India is accomplished in a better, easy and more exciting way on jeep safaris. Jeep safari is the best way to travel on a rugged terrain, hilly terrain, desert or any other off beaten track in India. Jeep Safari in India helps you in discovering those aspects of India that you have read in the books or seen on informative channels.

Jeep Safari in India is the best way to cover Himalayan regions where it is very difficult task to pass through twists and turns on every corner and to cross wild rivers. Explore the unknown and unexplored areas of India while admiring the natural beauty on a jeep safari. Jeep safari in India is better way to explore uneasy and toughest destinations like Leh, Ladakh, Kinnaur, Spiti, Manali, Kumaon and Garhwal.

Beside the hills, one can travel around the cities, forts, places and deserts and other places on jeep safaris. Jeep safari, a unique aspect of adventure tourism in India is becoming very popular as an adventure sport. Jeep safari has undertaken tourism with a difference very much to be kept in a different plane then all the rest of the breeds of adventure tourism in India.

Like Camel and Horse safaris, another popular form is the Jeep Safari. During Jeep Safari one feels close to nature while driving through the quiet and beautiful countryside. Jeep safaris are organised in every part of India. Jeep Safari is the best and safer way to explore any wildlife region. During the tour to any wildlife park or sanctuary on Jeep Safari you can cover the whole region, take pictures of wildlife animals from near and it is also a safer way.

Jeep Safari in India is very much popular because it is very difficult for everyone to explore a wide region in short time. Jeep Safari is the best mode of transportation through which one can visit most of the places in short time and also it provides a comfortable journey. Jeep Safari is easily available in every part of India. So come to India and take a ride in Jeeps to experience and explore the unexplored regions of India.

Delhi in India

2008-09-10T03:38:00.000-07:00

Delhi, the capital of India is known for its several and unmatched tourist attractions. Being capital of India, Delhi is a commercial hub. Here one can find hundreds of shopping complex and tourist attractions, which shows the excellence of Mughal architecture. Delhi has two distinct parts, Old Delhi and New Delhi. If someone wants to see the real old part of Delhi then he can visit Old Delhi and if you want to visit the growing and developed part of Delhi then visit New Delhi. Both parts of Delhi have their own significance.

Delhi offers numerous tourist places to visit like Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, India Gate, Old Fort and many more. If you want to buy something unique from Delhi then you are most welcome to visit vibrant shopping complex of Connaught Place, Delhi Haat (famous for its
handicraft goods and delicious food bonanza). There is one more place in Delhi famous for cheap and best items, known as Janpath and Palika Bazaar. There are some famous monuments made during the British era like India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhawan.

Jodhpur in Rajasthan

2008-09-02T01:58:00.000-07:00

Once known as Marwar, Jodhpur, was founded by Rao Jodha in 1459. This medieval city was the 16th century capital of the Rathore Rajputs. Jodhpur came into life when Kanuj Rathores moved in. The desert city is famous for its quiet, unhurried grace and its people. Jodhpur became capital of the Rathore Rajputs five centuries ago, when Mandore, the former capital, was abondoned.

Jodhpur is situated amidst the sands of Rajasthan's Thar desert. It is 621km SW of India's capital, Delhi and 336 km from Jaipur and 249 km from Bikaner, and is connected both by air and rail. Jodhpur is a colorful place where ancient forts compete with palaces, camel races and temples. Jodhpur, the heart of Rajasthan is the second largest city of Rajasthan and bounded by Nagaur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Barmer and Pali. Its blue houses give impression that the entire city is a sea of azure. Jodhpur is a wonderland of sand dunes and shrubs, rocky terrain and thorny trees. This city Jodhpur is protected and fenced by a wall nearly 10 km. in length and has eight gates facing various directions. Jodhpur has two railway stations, City and Rai Ka Bagh. Both railway stations are outside the city and the bus stand is right outside the Rai Ka Bagh. This desert kingdom is also acknowledged for its heritage hotels and palace hotels.

The climate of Jodhpur is variable because of Thar desert and varies from 49 degree in summer to 1 degree in winter. Rainy season in Jodhpur is only of 15 days in a year.

Jodhpur, known for its several famous forts, museums and palaces like

The Mehrangarh Fort - It is a stunning hill fort perched on a 150 m high hill founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha. Mehrangarh fort from the outside is impressive, and is certainly forbidding. Within the fort are some magnificently ornamented palaces, while close to its entrance is a perfectly detailed marble memorial, Jaswant Thada.

Umaid Bhawan Palace - It is the largest private residence of the world having three hundred and forty seven rooms which are finest extant example of art and decoration.

Jaswant Thada - A graceful royal memorial in white marble built in 1899 A.D. by Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.

Mehrangarh Fort Museum - Excellent museum with rare and interesting artifacts built in March, 1972 by The Maharaja Gaj Singh II. This museum houses and displays collection of paintings, portraits, books, manuscripts, weapons and other art objects.

Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum - Recently a part of the gigantic Umaid Bhawan Palace has been converted as a Palace Museum by the ruling family of Jodhpur. This place is highly advocated for its display of weapons, stuffed leopards, a huge banner of Queen Victoria and incredible collection of clocks.

Government Museum, Mandore - This becharming place having beautifully carved cenotaphs, halls of heroes, palaces and old fort, is of immense historical importance.

Other famous and well known places for their beauty and past in Jodhpur are Balsamand Lake and Garden, Mandore, Sadar Samand Lake, Guda Bishnoi, Mahamandir Temple, Kailana Lake, Jhalamand Garh, Luni Fort and many more.

Temples of Khajuraho

2008-08-18T22:15:00.000-07:00

India is well known for its temples and pilgrimage centers in all over the world. The temples of Khajuraho are deservedly one of India's major attractions. Khajuraho was once a great Chandela capital but now it is now a small village. Khajuraho has several unique and ancient temples which are famous for their sculptures. You won't find finer temple art anywhere in the world. Temples of Khajuraho were built by the Chandela dynasty, which survived for five centuries before falling to the Mughal onslaught. These temples are known for their unmatched beauty and size. But there are several questions about these temples that why and how they were built here. These beautiful temples of Khajuraho are superb examples of Indo-Aryan architecture. Around the temples are bands of exceedingly artistic stonework showing many aspects of Indian life. These sculptures show the pictures of Gods and Goddesses, warriors and musicians, real and mythological animals. But two elements appear over and over again and in greater detail than anything else - women and sex. These stone figures are of naked and posing apsaras (heavenly nymphs) which are appearing on every temple. In between are the mithuna (carved erotic figures), running through a whole Kamasutra of positions and possibilities.

These temples are divided into three groups – Western, Eastern and Southern.

Entertainment in and around Khajuraho Temples

Khajuraho Dance Festival – The most famous event in Khajuraho temples is its unique dance festival. This dance festival shows the true spirit of Khajuraho. This dance festival of Khajuraho is held here in March, every year. In this dance festival several ace artistes of various dances participate and perform.

Mahashivaratri – This is the festival which is celebrated in the month of Feb or March according to the Hindu calendar. A huge number of devotees come to the Matangeshwar temple and offer their prayers.

Sound and Light Shows - Khajuraho offers the sound and light show at the western temples every night at 7pm for its visitors which are excellent to watch. The show documents the history and culture of Khajuraho over the past 4000 years. Kandariya Art and Culture is a private set-up with cultural dance shows from India's different states every night. These performances are performed in a comfortable indoor theatre. This is a one hour show which starts at 7pm and 8.30pm.

Meghalaya

2008-08-14T05:33:00.000-07:00

This beautiful state of North East India is a region of immense natural splendors. This place is also called as ‘abode of the clouds’. This green state is the home for lots of beautiful Lush hills, beautiful valleys, exotic flora and fauna, cascading waterfalls and fast rivers. Meghalaya is bounded by Assam state in the north and east and it shares its international boundaries with Bangladesh. Meghalaya has several beautiful tourist attractions like elephant falls, tura and Ward Lake. The capital of Meghalaya, Shillong is one of the most beautiful cities of India. This state has also numerous tribes which has their own customs and traditions. To make a visit to the villages of these tribes is really a fascinating experience. Meghalaya is most famous for its handicrafts items like mounted butterflies, khasi dresses, handwoven shawls etc.

Tourist Attractions in Meghalaya
Shillong – This is the capital of Meghalaya. Shillong is a beautiful hill town situated at an altitude of 1496 mts above sea level. Accept the beauty of Shillong, it has lots of major tourist attractions like Shillong peak, Cherrapunjee, the wettest place on earth and Ward Lake.

Shillong Peak – This peak is the highest point in Shillong city. Shillong Peak is an important picnic and hangout place in Shillong. From the top of this peak, one can experience a panoramic view of the entire city. In the evening this place looks awesome when the city lights twinkles below.

Cherrapunjee – Cherrapunjee is a beautiful place of the region. The most interesting thing about this place is that this is the wettest place on earth. Cherrapunjee is situated just 56 km from Shillong. The beautiful town is also known as the centre of Khasi culture. This place is also known for its orange honey and limestone caves.

Ward Lake – Beautiful Lake in the lap of nature. Ward Lake is situated in the heart of the city which is another popular hangout spot in Shillong. This Lake offers pleasant boat ride to the tourist. One can also enjoy by having a short evening walk in the neighboring gardens.

Nongpoh – Nongpoh district is the headquarters of Ri-Bhoi. This place really impresses tourist by its extreme natural beauty. Thousands of green trees, lush valleys, meandering rivers and cascading waterfalls makes this place a beautiful and green place which attracts thousands of tourists every year.

Orchid Lake Resort – Orchid Lake Resort is situated in between the beautiful hills in Meghalaya. This is a majestic lake nestled amidst the hills. This place is really extremely beautiful that has always a best tourist attraction of the region. The Orchid Lake resort provides the tourists with immense opportunities of angling and other water sports.

Major Cities in Meghalaya
All the cities of Meghalaya are the most important part of Meghalaya tourism. These all beautiful cities of Meghalaya show the exact picture of this beautiful state and introduce visitors with a vivid custom and tradition of Meghalaya. These all cities of Meghalaya offer all the major tourist attractions of the region. In all the cities, Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya is the most important because of its scenic beauty and preserving most of the major tourist attractions of Meghalaya. Other major cities of this state are Baghmara, Cherrapunji, Jowai, Madanrting, Mairang, Mawlai, Nongmynsong, Nongpoh, Nongstoin, Nongthymmai, Pynthorumkhrah, Resubelpara, Shillong, Shillong Cantonment, Tura and Williamnagar.

Jharkhand

2008-08-05T22:18:00.000-07:00

Jharkhand is one of the youngest states of India. Jharkhand was carved out from Bihar state in the year 2000. Capital of this place is Ranchi which is very beautiful place to watch and explore. Jharkhand is very rich in flora and fauna. Betla National Park is a famous wildlife reserve which has several wildlife animals like tigers, elephants, bison, sambhars, wild boar, python, spotted deer and foxes. In 1974, the park was declared Project Tiger Reserve. The best sightseeing places of this state are Dassam Falls, Hundru Falls, Ranchi Falls, Sun Temple, Netarhat, Hazaribagh National Park, Baidyanath Dham, Sindri and Betla National Park. Jharkhand is also famous for its rich mineral resources like Uranium, Mica, Bauxite, Granite, Gold, Silver, Graphite, Magnetite, Quartz, Coal, Iron, Copper etc. Jharkhand also offers its visitors abundant forests, low rolling hills, hills, waterfalls, lakes, greenery, rivers, exotic cultures etc.

Tourist Attractions of Jharkhand
Netarhat – This is a small and beautiful hill station of Jharkhand state which promises a perfect solitude. Netarhat is a point in Jharkhand that offers beautiful views of sunrise and sunset to watch. This place is one hundred and fifty six kilometers north of Ranchi. This place is also known as the 'Queen of Chottanagpur'.

Betla National Park and Palamu – This national park is a prime tourist attraction and must visit destination in Jharkhand. This national park offers hot springs, waterfalls and numerous species of wildlife like tigers, panthers, elephants and deer. In Palamu it has a Tiger Reserve.

Hundru Falls – Hundru Falls is a beautiful geographical wonder in Jharkhand. Hundru Falls or the River Suwarnarekha cascades down from an unimaginable altitude of 320 ft to form a picturesque water body. The best time to watch this waterfall is monsoon.

Dassam Falls – Dassam Falls is about 40 km away from Ranchi. Kanchi River converts into Dassam Falls, when it falls from the height of over 144 feet. This is the prettiest fall of Jharkhand to watch. The tourists are warned to be extremely careful while bathing in the stream.

Topchanchi Lake – This beautiful lake is located at the distance of 37 kms from Dhanbad. This lake is ringed by a green sheet of nature from all rounds. Topchanchi Lake is a perfect picnic spot of this area. Topchanchi Lake is situated in the midst of green hills and forests.

Hazaribagh Park – Hazaribagh Park is roosting in low laid terrains. Throughout the year, the national park in Hazaribagh is jam packed with tourists. This park is most favorite picnic spot among local as well as foreign tourists. The park is enriched with flora and fauna. Mainly found animals inside the park are Sambar and Nilgai.

Baidya Nath Dham – Baidya Nath Dham is situated in Santhal Parganas of Jharkhand. This place is one of the holy sites of Lord Shiva and Parvati. There are two major temples, Baidyanath Temple and Basakinath Temple, located close to each other.

Major Cities of Jharkhand
Jharkhand is known as the Land of Woods as dense forests largely found in the cities of Jharkhand. Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand is the most famous city. Every city of this state is well known for its importance. These cities may be famous for their tourist attractions of for natural resources. Near about thirty two tribal communities reside in these cities. The following are the important cities of Jharkhand are:
Bokaro, Jamshedpur (steel city)
Chaibasa, Deoghar, Dumka (centers of Pilgrimage)
Betla (Palamu National Park)
Hazaribagh (wildlife reserve)
Giridih, Godda, Gumla (hill resort)
Singhbhum, Daltonganj (Populous town)

Adventure Holidays in Jharkhand
Jharkhand state is naturally gifted with several hills, waterfalls, lakes and dense forests which offer several types of adventure activities for visitors. Hills of Jharkhand offer the opportunity for rock climbing and mountaineering. Beautiful lakes of this region offer boating and other water activities. The main part of adventure is dense forest of this region. Several wild animals wander in these forests. Watching these animals from very near is the best part. One can also enjoy night safari here. Jeep Safari and Elephant Safari are also the major part of spending adventure holidays in Jharkhand. Ranchi Lake is the largest water source in the city and provides boating facility to tourists. Parasnath, 4431 feet above see level provides trekking opportunity to visitors.

Red Fort in Delhi

2008-07-26T06:53:00.000-07:00

Red Fort, one of the most precious and ancient historical monuments of India is situated in the heart of India, Delhi. Delhi is the capital of India and the home for several famous forts and monuments in which Red Fort is the one. Red Fort is also known by the name of Lal Quila. This fort was built by the mughal emperor, Shah Jahan between 1638 and 1648. The cost of this fort was about ten million Indian rupees.

The shape of the Red Fort is octagonal and it is like all other islamic buildings of India. The Red Fort has walls extending up to 2 kms. in length with the height varying from 18 mts. on the River Yamuna side and 33 mts. on the city side. Entry is through a huge gate, known as Lahori gate which is also known as Chatta Chowk. There is a beautiful bazaar in Red Fort, known as Meena Bazaar. One can find several excellent collections of antiques, miniature paintings and skillfully crafted fake ivory jewellery and fabulous carpets. Naubat Khana, also known as Drum House is the heart of this beautiful fort where musicians used to play for the emperor.

There are two famous halls in this majestic fort known for public and private audiences. One is known as deewan-e-khas (private hall) and another is known as deewan-e-aam(public hall). There is a throne in centre of these halls known as the Peacock Throne, which was studded with rubies and gems and was carried away to Iran by Nadir Shah in 1739. There are several arched and domed marble places, apartments, mosque and gardens in Red Fort. There is one more famous mahal in this fort known as Rang Mahal or Palace of Colours. This mahal has a spectacular marble made Lotus shaped fountain. This mahal was the home for Emperor's wives and mistresses. One can see the excellent paintings, gold bordered projections, mosaics of mirrors and wonderful carved ceiling. The other attractions enclosed within this monument are the hammams or the Royal Baths, the Shahi Burj, which used to be Shahjahan's private working area, and the Moti Masjid or the Pearl Mosque, built by Aurangzeb for his personal use.

Tamil Nadu

2008-07-14T23:46:00.000-07:00

Tamil Nadu, in South India is well known for its historical and medieval temples and pilgrimage places. Tamil Nadu has more than 30,000 temples that are why this state is also known as the Land of Temples. The coastal boundaries of this state are lapped by Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean. Ancient customs and traditions dating back to 3000 years, still flourish into the lives of the people. Tamil Nadu is home of hill slopes, tea gardens, hill stations, teak and sandalwood forests. Tamil Nadu is also known for its unmatched culture which one can not find anywhere in all over the world. Tamil Nadu also has some of the best hill stations of India like Ooty, Kodaikanal and Mamallapuram. Marina Beach and Mudumalai wildlife sanctuary in Tamil Nadu are major tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu. Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu is known for its beautiful beach resorts. The world famous Meenakshi temple also lies in the state of Tamil Nadu.

Major Tourist Attractions in Tamil Nadu
Meenakshi Temple - The well known Meenakshi temple in Madurai is the major tourist attraction among the local and foreign visitors. This temple has nine gopurams which are 48 mts high and visited by over 15,000 people every day. Thousands of people worship here in this temple everyday.

Ooty - Udhagamandalam or Ooty is one of the beautiful hill stations of South India. This hill station is the famous tourist place in summers. This hill station offers a cool retreat, as do Coonoor and Kotagiri, the other hill stations near by. Ooty also offers to its visitors the cascading and beautiful waterfalls, green coated valleys and sylvan surroundings.

Wildlife – Tamil Nadu is not only known for its temples and hill stations but this state is also known for its five famous National Parks and 17 Wildlife Sanctuaries. Madulmalai Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the famous wildlife sanctuaries. Tamil Nadu also presents Nagarhole, Bandipur and Waynad sanctuaries.

Beaches – As Tamil Nadu is attached its long coastline with Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea, it has several beautiful beaches. These all beaches are the major tourist attractions. Some of the best beaches of this state are Marina beach, Mahabalipuram Beach, Rameshwaram Beach, Kanyakumari Beach and Covelong Beach.

Kapaleeswarar Temple – Kapaleeswarar Temple is a 13th century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This old temple is built in Dravidian style of architecture. The most attractive feature of this temple is its 37 mts tall gopuram. 63 idols of saints in the center of the temple is also the centre of attraction.

The Government Museum – This Government Museum has a huge collection of remains of Chola Dynasty. This Museum is located on the Pantheon Road and was established in 1857. This museum has India's best collection of geology, archeology, numismatics, anthropology, botany and zoology.

Thousand Light Mosque – This is one of the major attractions of this region. The thousand light mosque is named after its intricate lighting system. One thousand lights are used to light its assembly hall. This mosque has two tall minarets of 64 mts each. There is also a separate place for the women to worship and pray. You can also view the library and the burial ground, built inside the mosque.

Thar Desert, Rajasthan

2008-07-03T03:11:00.000-07:00

Lying between India and Pakistan, Thar Desert of Rajasthan is a beautiful place which attracts travelers from all over the world. This Thar Desert is the home of innumerable lakes, ponds, rivers, marble palaces, forts and rural life which is different and difficult to see anywhere else in the country. Thar Desert attracts lots of people with its sand dunes and camel caravans. Most of the part of this huge desert lies in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The Thar Desert is bounded by the Sutlej River (northwest), Aravalli Range (east), Rann of Kutch (south), and on the Indus River (west). Thar Desert is also known for its rare wildlife, unique desert plants, adventurous camel safari, people, culture and ecotourism.

Wildlife in Thar Desert – Thar Desert is the home of some wildlife species, which are fast vanishing in other parts of India. Thar Desert is the home for large number of great Indian bustard, the black buck, the Indian gazelle, and the wild ass. It is very amazing to know that how these animals and insects survive in these harsh conditions, under such high temperature and without drinking water. The size of most of the animals is small and they are mainly nocturnal.

Plants In The Desert – Thar Desert is also the home for 700 species of plants. These plants are very rare to see in any other part of the country. These plants have the capacity to survive in the driest of conditions and are usually edible, especially the grass variety.

Camel Safari - Camel Safari in Thar Desert is known as the most adventurous and romantic safari. Thar Desert is also the home for magnificent citadels and colorful and un-spoilt villages. These villages are known for their culture and rich historical background. The camel rides on the sand dunes are an unforgettable experience as are the sunsets. During Camel Safari, one can also visit some very fine and glorious palaces, forts, temples and other elegant monuments of architectural and historical value.

People – People living in the area of Thar Desert are totally different from other parts and states of India. The main occupation of the people in desert is agriculture and animal husbandry. The living standard of the people in the desert is low. The culture and history is very different and unique.

Best Time to Visit - November and January

Muslim Pilgrimage Centers in India

2008-06-26T03:35:00.000-07:00

There are lots of pilgrimage centers in India for every religion. One can also say that India is the land of ritual values. There are several religions in India which one can't see anywhere in all over the world. Most of the pilgrimage centers belongs to Hindu and Jain communities but there are two three major mulim pilgrimage destinations which are famous in all over the world and thousands of tourist come to pray here. There pilgrims are:

Ajmer Sharief: Ajmer Sharief is the famous pilgrimage destination of Muslims. Ajmer Sharief is situated in Ajmer in the state of Rajasthan. Construction of this dargah was started in the year of 1912 and completed in the year of 1915. This Dargah was constructed by King Akbar for Sufi Saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti.

Famous For: Urs/Anniversary of the Saint’s death.

Best Time to Visit: October.

Haji Ali: Haji Ali dargah is situated in Mumbai, the capital of Maharahstra. This dargah was constructed in the year of 1431 by Haji Usman Rangikar. This ancient mosque is one of the major pilgrimage centres not only for Muslims but for everyone. Several worshippers come here for fulfilling their wishes.

Famous For: This mosque was built in the middle of the sea with only a narrow path leading to it giving it an ethereal look.

Best Time to Visit: Better to visit Friday or Thursday evening.

Nizamuddin Aulia: Nizamuddin Dargah in Delhi, the capital of India is very famous Muslim pilgrimage center. Thousands of devotees visit this Dargah daily. One can see not only Muslims but also Hindus and Christians here. This Dargah belongs to the most famous Sufi saint Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya. There are also the tombs of Amir Khusro, Jehan Ara Begum and Inayat Khan.

Famous For: Every Thursday in honor to Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya several Qawali programs held here.

Best Time to Visit: Better to visit Thursday evening.

Alappuzha Beach

2008-06-17T21:59:00.001-07:00

Alleppey or Alappuzha is yet another romantic name in the history of Kerala. The green country side, pristine beaches, rivers and hills, the backwaters make it an awesome holiday destination for Alappuzha Beach. Often called as the Venice of the East, this is one of the gateways to explore Gods own country, Kerala. This is one of the best known ports along with the Malabar Coast. Alappuzha woos tourist with its age old charm. Alappuzha is well-known on the tourist trail as one of the major centers for backwater cruises. Alappuzha is one of the most beautiful districts in Fascinating Kerala. For the entertainment of visitors there is a Vijaya Beach Park and an old lighthouse. This beach is blessed with nature's green beauties like lagoons, vast lakes and numerous fresh water rivers. Alleppey is also famous for the Snake Boat Races held here every year around the time of the Onam festival.

Major Attractions

Alappuzha Beach is not only known for its beauty but also for other major tourist attractions. Some of the major tourist attractions in Alappuzha are the backwater cruises and boat race, Vijaya Beach Park, Lighthouse, Kuttanad, Chettikulangara Bhagvathy Temple etc. You can also go for an excursion in Pathiramanal Island. Champakulam Church is one of the important places of worship. The Alappuzha district is also known for its backwaters and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. It is one of the few places in world, where rice farming is done below the sea level.

Adventure Activities in Alappuzha Beach

Alappuzha Beach is also known for its adventure activities. Some of the best water sport facilities are available on the Alappuzha beach. Swimming under the clear blue sky and surfing are very popular among tourists. Alappuzha Beach also offers to its tourists Beach volleyball, water scooter and high speed boats. These water and adventure activities on beach of Alappuzha attract thousands of foreign tourists each year. One can also enjoy having a backwater tour from Alappuzha to Kollam.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Alappuzha is during the winter. Pleasant and humid like other places of Kerala; Alappuzha will give you a soothing ambience.

Rameshwaram Beach

2008-06-13T03:46:00.000-07:00

Rameshwaram is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site situated in Tamilnadu with a calm and scenic beach. This is the only place in South India which promises to satisfy both pilgrims and tourists. Rameshwaram Beach is a mixture of immense natural wealth and peaceful loneliness. Also known as the 'Benaras of the south', it is believed that in order to attain Moksha, visit to Rameshwaram is mandatory. This place also consists with the longest ever constructed bridge on sea in India. The serene beach and shallow water here are ideal for swimming and sunbathing where one could swim in the sea day and night. The sea here is very calm and quite. Variety of sea species like marine life-algae, starfish, sea cucumber, crabs, sponges and sea cow are found here. Also enjoy by seeing dolphins jumping and playing several games in the water. This island is spread in an area of 61.8 square kilometers connected to the mainland at Mandapam by train and by one of India's engineering wonders, the Indira Gandhi Bridge.

Attractions Around Rameshwaram Beach

Ramanathaswamy Temple: Near the beach on the eastern side situated the world famous Ramanathaswamy Temple. This temple was built in the 17th century, famous for its 1200gigantic granite columns. There is 54 meter tall gate-tower (Gopuram) and 1220 meters of magnificent corridors which attracts every tourist.

Agnitheertham: Agnitheertham is just 100 meters away from the temple. This place is important for Hindus because it is believed that this is the place where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva, and asked forgiveness for killing Ravana.

Best Time To Visit - The maximum temperature of this island varies 28 to 31 degree Celsius. The best time to visit this island is considered between January and March.

Jammu and Kashmir

2008-06-08T22:39:00.000-07:00

Jammu and Kashmir in North India is the most beautiful part of the country. This region is called as the Paradise on the Earth because of its unmatched beauty. Jammu and Kashmir is one of the beautiful states of India. This state is also called the real paradise on earth because of its scenic beauty. This state has two capitals in terms of season. Srinagar is considered as the summer and Jammu is considered the winter capital of this state. As far as Sightseeing in Jammu and Kashmir is considered, there are a considerable number of places of tourist interest in Jammu and Kashmir. These places include the Lakes, Shrines and Monuments, Mughal Gardens, Hills, Valleys and many more. One can also visit Laddakh, Sonmarg and the place called Gulmarg. These places are sites of astounding natural beauty. There is one more place, Pahalgam which is beautified by Mother Nature by herself. Sightseeing in Srinagar is commonly done by taxi. Another way of seeing the city, especially the lake area, is by Shikara. There are also very famous and renowned pilgrimage centers in this state and these are visited by thousands of tourists every year. Some of the best places of Jammu and Kashmir are:

Hazratbal Mosque – This is very famous Mosque, located in a village of the same name on the banks of the Dal. This beautiful Mosque is built with white marble and its elegance is reflected in the waters of the lake. Hazratbal's special significance is derived from the fact that it houses a hair of the prophet Muhammad. This is displayed to the public on religious occasions, usually accompanied by fairs. Hazratbal is the only domed mosque in Srinagar.

Jama Masjid - The Jama Masjid at Nowhatta is one more important mosque in Srinagar. This beautiful mosque is built around a courtyard and is supported by 370 wooden pillars. This mosque was originally built by Sultan Sikandar in 1400 AD. Mosque is a typical example of Indo-Saracenic architecture.

Shankaracharya Temple – This temple is situated on the top of the hills, known as Takht-I-Sulaiman in the south-east of Srinagar. This temple was constructed in 250BC. The philosopher Shankaracharya stayed at this place when he visited Kashmir ten centuries ago to revive Sanatan Dharma. It overlooks the Valley and can be approached by a motorable road. A modern ceiling covers the inner sanctum and an inscription in Persian traces its origin to the reign of Emperor Shah Jehan.

Khanqah of Shah Hamadan – This is a beautiful and ancient mosque, situated on the banks of the river Jhelum, between the third and fourth bridge. It is the first mosque ever built in Srinagar. The original one was built in 1395. Shah-i-Hamdan, who came from Persia in the 13th century, was responsible for the spread of Islam in Kashmir. A mosque established by him at Shey (near Leh) attracts devotees from far and wide. The interiors are richly carved and painted.

Hari Parbat Fort & Temple of Sharika Devi - The Mughal emperor's fort crowns the top of Hari Parbat hill. Although the fort has destroyed but the ramparts are remaining. The remain of the fort is still impressive and the old apartments within the fort, even though in a state of ruin, still convey at least a little of the grandeur of the Mughals. This hill also considered sacred to the Hindus due to the presence of temple of Sharika. The wall around the hill was built by Akbar in 1592-98 AD. The hill is surrounded by almond orchards, which make a lovely sight during April when the trees blossom, heralding the advent of spring in Kashmir.

Makhdoom Sahib – There is one more pilgrimage place on the southern side of the Hari Parbat hill. This is the historic shrine of Makhdoom Sahib. This sacred and holy place is visited by thousands of people of all faiths.

Mughal Gardens – Jammu and Kashmir is very well known for its beautiful Mughal Gardens. These Gardens are rich with terraced lawns, cascading fountains and many different beautiful bright flowerbeds. There are three Mughal Gardens of this region Chashma Shahi, Nishat and Shalimar. Today these Mughal Gardens are very popular places for picnics and excursions.

Shalimar Bagh – This beautiful Garden was built by Emperor Jehangir for his wife Noor Jehan. Shalimar Bagh is 15 kms from the TRC. This Garden houses some beautiful lakes and shallow terraces. The garden is 539 m by 182 m and has four terraces, rising one above the other. The fourth terrace, by far the best, was once reserved for royal ladies.

Nishat Bagh – This beautiful Garden is situated on the banks of the Dal Lake. This garden is 11 km. away from TRC. From this garden, one can enjoy watching a magnificent view of the lake and the snow capped Pir Panjal mountain range. Nishat was designed in 1633 AD by Asaf Khan, brother of Noor Jehan.

Chashma Shahi - Chashma Shahi is a tastefully laid garden in terraces. Chashma Shahi provides a magnificent view of the Dal Lake below and surrounding mountain ranges. The cool water of the spring is highly refreshing and digestive. The original garden was laid out by Shah Jehan in 1632 AD.