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Goa tourism

2009-04-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

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Goa - a vacation paradise located in South Western India is famous for its sandy beaches, water sports, easygoing life style, history, fairs and festivals. Goa is also known for its architecture and rich tropical flora and fauna. Travel to Goa covers history, culture and cuisine, Goa hotels, Goa restaurants and other useful Goa links.
The evergreen destination of Goa is a holidaymaker's paradise. Breathtakingly beautiful blue beaches, sensuous silvery sands, fabulous flora and fauna, rich cultural heritage, captivating churches, and terrific temples, Goa has it all. The feasts and festivals of Goa are the other things not to be missed. The Indian state of Goa beckons you for the time of your life. Experience a wonderful journey while enjoying a pleasant stay at Goa resorts. So, get going to Goa that is on a holiday - twelve months in a year! Gorgeous Goa is one of the most idyllic holiday destinations in India. A diverse tourist locale, Gorgeous Goa is celebrated the world over for its laidback culture, sun kissed beaches, gothic churches and rocking nightlife. What’s more, Gorgeous Goa’s exotic seafood will have you licking your fingers and asking for more. So come and sip a beer, enjoy bird watching, relax with a massage or indulge in water sports. At Gorgeous Goa, everyday is a holiday!
Goa Carnival - Carnival in Goa is now what it was meant to be: a people feast and not a spectacle to lure tourists and consumers. The Carnival in Goa is essentially a spring festival celebrated with joy and revelry on the beautiful beaches of Goa. The erstwhile Portuguese settlement of Goa sings, dances and makes merry through the days and nights of the Carnival. The most famous celebration of Goa appeals to a wide range of tourists from around the world. Get going to the Goa Carnival and make merry.
Goa Travel Guide - Like a child joyfully rotating a kaleidoscope and chuckling at the changing patterns, one just gets hooked on to Goa. Beauty can be quite inebriating and here you have so much of it - in the golden sands, the blue waters, the sylvan forests and the lakes. Here's presenting a Travel Guide to Goa that introduces you the treasure trove of Goa. The Travel guide to Goa's holiday mood all through the year, the travel guide to Goa's churches and temples and much more.
Goa The Sun & Sand - Visiting Goa is like getting into a big party, where everyone is enjoying life at its best. Goa is for everyone, from a beach lover to heritage hunter to wildlife fanatics and the romantic honeymooner, the place has something on offer for each one of us. The Sea, Sun and Sand come together in Goa to give you heaven on Earth. So, bask in the Sun and walk on the silver sands for the time of your life in Goa. Wishing you a happy holiday in the lap of mother nature in Goa with the sensuous Sun and Sand.
Honeymoon in Goa - The scintillating combination of Sun, surf, sand and sea makes Goa one of the picture perfect destinations in India. For the romantic start of your life check out: golden Goa. If heaven were a place on Earth Goa would be the destination.Honeymoon in Goa is sure to work magic on your marriage. Monsoon Magic of Goa is a must check out for the newly weds as well as all those in love. Goa has been the hot and happening honeymoon destination since long. The beauty of the destination has attracted several couples.
Travel Agency for Goa - We are a leading travel agency in Goa that promise a comfortable journey in the land of golden beaches. Right from making air bookings / flight reservations for Goa to car rental and hotel booking in Goa we offer you all this and much more.

Goa Sightseeing - There are a number of Goa sightseeing options. Be it the beaches, churches or temples of Goa all attract tourists and travellers to the golden holiday destination.Goa sightseeing tours and trips would cover the best of places to see in Goa.

Nile Cruises
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Hotels in Goa

Leela Palace Hotel

Taj Hotels

Vainguinim Valley Resort

Fort Aguada Beach Resort

Park Plaza Hotel

Goa Beaches

Baga Goa

Dona Paula Goa

Anjuna Beach Goa

Candolim Goa

Palolem Beach, Goa

Best Buy Hotels in Goa

	Dona Sylvia Beach Resort, Goa	Rs. 4249
	This opulent resort standing on sparkling white sands of the Cavelossim Beach is a Mediterranean style accommodation offering Goan hospitality. The resort has on site some excellent restaurants serving delectable cuisines and a poolside bar serving exotic cocktails and drinks.

	Silla Goa Resort, Goa	Rs. 1960
	This resort promises you a stay in complete luxury with full entertainment. Fully equipped rooms with all possible comforts keep you comfortable, while the on site entertainment like Goan Music, theme evenings & excellent multicuisines keep you entertained.

	Sun Village, Goa	Rs. 3525
	Enjoy a luxuriant stay in the well-appointed rooms as well as enjoy a sumptuous dinner at the wonderful restaurant. The hotel can even organise shuttles to the nearby beach if you feel like watching the surf or simply walk on the lovely sands.

	The Leela Kempinski, Goa	Rs. 6750
	The Leela Kempinski - A stunning beach, landscaped gardens and Portuguese style villas reflecting a traditional Goan culture. Located in the heart of Goa, the hotel promises ultimate opulence with its elegantly appointed suites and a number of excellent dining options.

	Royal Orchid Galaxy Beach Resort, Goa	Rs. 4675
	An ultimate resort in the quiet and unruffled South Goa. Contemporary rooms with modern amenities offer a relaxed stay while the pool, bar, spa and restaurant provide ample scope to just laze around. Be here to unwind yourself.

	Neelam's The Grand, Goa	Rs. 1175
	Experience the old Goan charm at the resort with its exotic rooms which come fitted with every possible luxury a resort can offer you. The resort has for you a pool with a swim bar, an Ayurvedic center with various treatments and other indulgences like gymnasium and Jacuzzi.

	Ronil Beach Resort, Goa	Rs. 1859
	A nice place that provides homely comfort far away from home. The rooms are comfortable and cozy. The resort also has a multi-cuisine restaurant which serves some most tempting seafood delicacies. Swimming pool and outdoor dining facilities keeps you entertained.

	Hotel Panchsheel, Goa	Rs. 365
	Located in Margao, this is an ideal place for all budget conscious travelers. The hotel provides all that one needs at the most reasonable price. Its restaurant Swad is an excellent place to try out some delicious vegetarian recipes.

	Lemon Tree Amarante Beach Resort, Goa	Rs. 4011
	The resort offers the ultimate in luxury. They have a wide variety of rooms with the best of luxuries and amenities. The Citrus Café by the poolside is a wonderful dining option inside the hotel. Apart from Indian and Continental it serves mouth-watering Goan delicacies.

	La Ben Resort, Goa	Rs. 382
	Located on the virgin Colva Beach, the hotel promises ultimate luxury at your prices. All rooms come with most modern facilities. The roof-top restaurant is an ideal place to spend some relaxing time as one eats and drinks. Situated in a convenient location, the resort gives easy access to the several major areas in the city too.

	Cidade De Goa, Goa	Rs. 4219
	Ultimate indulgence in total seclusion – that’s what the resort offers you. A private beachfront keeps you away from all crowds and the lavish accommodation promises all comfort. The hotel’s restaurants, bars and spa take care of all your needs too.

	Estrela Do Mar Beach Resort, Goa	Rs. 1357
	Located on the Queen of Beaches, the Calangute beach, the resort offers the most scenic surroundings and a composed ambiance. The resort brings to you all the comforts which would make you feel at home.

	Sun Shine Park Resort, Goa	Rs. 706
	Away from hustle and bustle, the resort offers a quiet retreat. Its coffee shop and restaurant take care of your refreshment needs and the Bar takes care of your need for beverages. Plan a stay here and be assured of a memorable time.

	Royal Heritage Resort, Goa	Rs. 1213
	Away from the noise of the city, the resort offers a quiet stay amidst appealing greenery and natural beauty. The tastefully done rooms bring you all comforts to make your stay a pleasurable one. The pool, bar and a poolside restaurant help you enjoy every single moment of your stay in the resort. Experience the traditional Goan hospitality here too.

	Riviera De Goa, Goa	Rs. 2824
	Located in North Goa, the hotel offers you all possible luxuries and complete satisfaction. The hotel with its fine dining options gives you a lot to choose from. The beach which lies close by always makes the hotel desirable with tourists.

	Rahi Coral Beach Resort, Goa	Rs. 1099
	A lovely beach resort, the Rahi Coral Beach Resort offers everything one would need for a perfect holiday by the seaside. Luxurious rooms with modern luxuries are sure to keep you comfortable. The multi-cuisine restaurant serves excellent Indian, Chinese and Continental.

	Swimsea Beach Resort, Goa	Rs. 750
	Lush lawns, sparkling sands and stretches of clear waters make your trip a truly memorable one. Mermaid its multi-cuisine restaurant serves a host of dishes with Goan seafood as its specialty.

	Riverside Regency Resort, Goa	Rs. 769
	A family-run resort, the place offers homely comfort at a price that would suit most budgets. Its peaceful and calm ambience works wonders on your mind. The rooms are well-furnished and provide most comforts.

	Ginger Hotel, Goa	Rs. 1090
	Known all over for their affordability as well as class facilities, Ginger Hotel brings you all that one needs for a comfortable stay. With a host of services you can be assured of a pleasant stay.

	Resort Terra Paraiso, Goa	Rs. 1875
	A luxurious boutique hotel, the resort brings you ultimate opulence. The resort offers 42 villa-style rooms and other facilities like spa and sunken bar for indulgence. Private luxury is defined by the Jacuzzi and mini bars that come in the privacy of your rooms.

rajasthan tourism

2009-04-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

his majestic land, Rajasthan, is filled with heritage and culture of Rajasthan, India. Visit the famous fort and monument of Rajasthan. Get extensive information related Rajasthan Tourism, Rajasthan Desert, Rajasthan Tours, Hotels in Rajasthan and Rajasthan Tour Packages. in brief everything that travellers like you find interesting. Check out the links provided in this section to learn more and plan your own trip to Rajasthan. Alternatively just pick up a package from the list offered below the links and leave the rest to us. We'll make sure that your trip becomes a memory for a lifetime. Once known as the 'Land of the Kings', the state still retains the glory and richness of those times with its marvelous monuments, colourful traditions and customs. we will assist you to view the stunning places of the state. We are known for our excellent Rajasthan tours services. We Offers Travel to Rajasthan, Heritage Culture and Forts Palaces Tours of Rajasthan India, Rajasthan Tour Packages, Rajasthan Heritage Travel, Rajasthan Cultural Tourism, Rajasthan Holiday Tour, Rajasthan Fort Palaces Travel Tours, Rajasthan Vacation Packages, Rajasthan Travel Guide, Holidays in Rajasthan India, Rajasthan Cultural Trip, Rajasthan Desert Tours, Vacations in Rajasthan India, Rajasthan Travel Tour Booking, Adventure of Rajasthan, Rajasthan Tourism Info, Travels in Rajasthan.

The Fort at Jodhpur

The Incomparable Umaid Bhawan Palace

Jaisalmer City and Fort

Rajasthan

From Wikitravel

Asia : South Asia : India : Western India : Rajasthan

Location of Rajasthan in India

Rajasthan is a state in the northwest of India. It is mainly arid and its western border is adjacent to Pakistan. The main attraction for travellers is the vast Desert of Thar and one of the oldest mountain range in the world - Aravalis - and the Rajput heritage which is apparent in the forts, temples and palaces established by the Rajput Kings like Bappa Rawal, Rana Kumbha, Rana Sanga and Rana Pratap.

Regions

Marwar
Shekhawati
Tonk
Mewar

Cities

Jaswant Thada, Jodhpur

Jaipur - the state capital

Ajmer
Bikaner - famous for its sweets
Bundi - fort city off the beaten track
Jaisalmer
Jodhpur - the Blue City, site of the spectacular hilltop Mehrangarh Fort
Kota
Nagaur
Pushkar
Tonk
Udaipur

Other destinations

Karauli
Osiyan
Mount Abu alt 432
Nathdwara
Ranakpur
Ranthambhore National Park
Wazirpur

Understand Language

Most people speak Rajasthani dialects, Hindi and sometimes broken English. In tourist places like Jaipur and Jodhpur, you will find trained English and French guides too.

Get in

By plane Rajasthan is one of the larger Indian states and distances are long, making planes a fairly good option for getting in. Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur all have airports with direct links to many major cities, though if coming from a smaller city, one has to go via Delhi.

By train

Overnight trains from Delhi and Mumbai reach most of Rajasthan's major cities. For points further out, like Jaisalmer, you'll be looking at a second day on the train as well. The Shatabdi and Rajdhani express are excellent trains and have excellent service.
Another option is Palace on Wheels which is a week long luxury train ride through Rajasthan.

By road

The National Highway 8 which runs through Rajasthan is excellent and connects Delhi to Mumbai. Though Mumbai may be too far away, this is the most popular way to travel to travel to Jaipur from Delhi as the road is in excellent condition and the drive can easily be completed in under 4hrs.

Get around

All the cities have public transports in form of buses.Also available are jeeps on hire. Beware of jeep drivers who charge a bomb from tourists. Otherwise from Delhi various private travel agencies organise trips to Rajasthan but they are rather costly. But if you do not travel alone, it is better to hire a car with a driver (for example a car from Delhi International Airport to Neemrana Village costs 4000 INR for five persons). Besides these government tourism department runs luxury buses to a couple of cities in Rajasthan. The buses originate from Dr. Ambedkar Terminus in the Old Delhi region.
Railways can be the better travel mode as it is quick and the service on most trains is excellent. But in Rajasthan, road may be more enjoyable for short distances as the sights of the desert with the hills to be seen are beautiful and the roads are but bearable. A popular road drive is from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer, which is because the flight takes longer overall and the road is excellent.
A very popular option is Palace on Wheels which is a week long luxury train ride through interiors of Rajasthan.
Nile Cruises

See

Rajasthan is one of the most popular tourist destination to observe Indian heritage and royalty closely. A fortnight should suffice to be able to glimpse the splendor of the state. It has a lot of natural and man made tourist destinations, which include:

Amber Fort in Jaipur
Camel fair in Pushkar
Chittorgarh Fort - A massive structure with numerous gateways, the fort is an outstanding example of Mauryan architecture.
Mehrangarh Fort - Located in Jodhpur. Set on the hill top, Mehrangarh Fort is a humongous royal mansion.
Junagarh Fort in Bikaner
Pichola Lake in Udaipur
Bundi Fort in Bundi
Jaisalmer Fort - Located in Jaisalmer. This fort is constructed with sand stones and is an important landmark of Jaisalmer city.
The Desert landscape in Jaisalmer
Jal Mahal in Jaipur
The Pink City in Jaipur
Umaid Bhawan in Jodhpur
Wildlife Sanctuary in Ranthambhore National Park

Do

Many of the cities and towns in Rajasthan offer a chance to do a camel safari.
Another great experience is to explore Rajasthan on horseback. Beginners can go on shorter rides while experienced riders can join horseback safaris running from a couple of days up to 3 weeks.
Lady travelers can get brilliant, intricate henna patterns done on their hands and/or feet.
Visit the bird sanctuary at Bharatpur and the wildlife park at Ranthambore. Make sure you take the tiger safari at Ranthambore.
Shop at the bazaars(local markets) located in most cities in narrow alleys and lanes. You can pick up traditional puppets, tie-and-dye clothes/apparel, kota(also a place) textiles, accessories.
Visit fairs arranged for traditional festivals, where you get to see the locals in traditional finery;watch camel races;enjoy traditional folk music.
Go on a jeep safari, night safari or a nature hike in the Aravalli Mountains visiting some of the interesting wildlife sanctuaries there such as Sita-Mata, Kumbhalgarh or Jaisamand.
Hot Air Ballooning, [1]. 3. A breath taking experience of hot air ballooning over the heritage sites and seing a totally different perspective of Jaipur.Mesmerising should be the word for the entire 3 hour experience. You just can't have anything better to than Hot Air Ballooning at Jaipur... A MUST DO !!! 10000.

buy

Avoid shopping at outlets guided by the local auto/ricksha drivers or even with the local tour guide you may have hired as these outlets all claim to have some assosiation with the Rajasthan government or the actual artisans which are generaly fabricated claims and you end up paying anywhere between 20-40% above the actual price (including a hefty commission parted by the shopkeeper to the guide/auto driver). The guide is more keen to show you all these shops rather than the places you have travelled to see.

Eat

Food is generally very spicy - to be enjoyed in moderation for first timers. Dairy based sweet products are very popular in this part of the country. Restaurants are mostly vegetarian. Finding restaurants serving good non-vegetarian food could be difficult, and in general, non vegetarian stuff in road side eateries should be avoided. Bread - both leavened and unleavened is readily available.
A typical Rajasthani fare would include daal-baati-churma. Daal is lentil curry;baati is round balls made out of wheat flour and baked in charcoal fire;churma is a dessert made out of crushed wheat balls rolled in jaggery/sugar and topped with ghee.

Stay safe

As always, be careful when traveling alone, and avoid venturing out late at nights and beware of touts. One of the safest way to travel around Rajasthan is by having a driver who know their ways around Rajasthan.
Spitting, urinating and dumping garbbage at public places and streets is very common and you need to watch out for this. Also beware of traffic coming in from the wrong side of the street when walking/driving.

Stay healthy

There are many clinics and hospitals in major cities which provide quality treatment at affordable prices. Also health tourism is on the upswing

welocme punjab

2009-02-17T03:38:00.000-08:00

Punjab, the land of five rivers and integrated cultural history, is a treasure trove for an avid tourist. For this land of the great gurus not only boasts of ancient monuments but throbs with historical embodiments. It is no secret that whoever comes to this land of yellow fields with blue mountains providing the romantic and picturesque backdrop has never gone back without imbibing the essence of Punjab.

There is no dearth of breathtaking palaces, for Punjab was the seat of royalty, as the imposing Quila Mubarak will tell you. Museums galore and so are the religious places with the Golden Temple offering succour to the mind and soul of any one visiting. If you are a wild life freak, then Punjab can take you on a tour of the sanctuaries, which are hot favourites with migratory birds. Since this state borders Pakistan, there are two main posts from which you can peep into the land that was once an integral part of Punjab and experience the feelings of the people separated by a line.

The much truncated India's portion of present Punjab is divided into three natural regions :the Majha,the Doaba and the Malwa.

About Punjab
Punjab, the chief wheat producing area of the country, is the overland entry point into India. The state is also known for its production of sports and hosiry goods. The holiest shrine for the Sikhs is the Golden Temple in Amritsar, so called because the dome is covered with gold leaf.Home of the fiercly proud and independent sikhs, the state of Punjab is steeped in histroy and culture of India.

Places to Visit in Punjab
Amritsar || Chandigarh

Temples in Punjab
Ram Tirth, Amritsar : Location 11Kilometres west of Amritsar on Chogawan road, dates back to the period of Ramayana, Rishi Balmiki's hermitage. The place has an ancient tank and many temples. A hut marks the site where Mata Sita gave birth to Luv & Kush and also, still extant are Rishi Balmiki's hut and the well with stairs where Mata Sita used to take her bath.

Forts of Punjab
Govindgarh Fort Amritsar : Early 19th century designed by Maharaja Ranjit Singh.Has special defence mechanism against artillery attacks, which were frequent when Punjab was still open to depredations of the Afghan hordes. Being with paramilitary forces it is not open to visitors now.

History of Punjab
The History of Punjab is as old as the history of the Indian Civilization. The land of five rivers, this state was known as Panchal when the Aryans came to India in the third millennium BC. before that, the whole region of the Sindhu (Indus) and its tributaries were inhibited by the Harappans or the people of Copper age who constructed great cities in this region. Ropar in modern Punjab is a great example of this civilization.

Tourist Attractions in Punjab
The most important tourist center in the state is Amritsar with its Golden Temple. This temple is considered to be the holiest of all the pilgrimages of Sikhism and houses Akal Takht, the supreme governing body of Sikhism. The Jalianwallah Bagh is a small park in the city where many pilgrims were massacred by the British police in the year 1919.

Mosques in Punjab

Mazaar, Pir Baba Haji Rattan, Bathinda City : Situated between the Civil Hospital and the grain Market. It attracts devotees from all faiths. Baba Haji Rattan had visited Mecca as an ambassador of Raja Bhoj. On returning to India he had settled at Bhatinda. The Mazaar ( mausoleum) marks the site where the Peer used to meditate. The place is halloed by the visits of the 1st and the 10th Prophets of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Guru Gobind Singh Ji.

Palaces of Punjab
Summer Palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh (1780-1838 AD) , AMRITSAR : It was constructed under the supervision of Fakir Azeez-ud-din and Sardars Lehna Singh and Desa Singh Majithia, nobles of the Lahore Darbar at a cost of Nanak Shahi Rs. 1,25,000/- Originally, laid in a garden spreading across 84 acres of rare plants, trees and flowers, surrounded by a boundary wall, 14 feet high and a moat all around it, this beautiful palace had also several equally beautiful clusters of structure which were converted into clubs and libraries, the lawns around them into tennis courts by the British.

Location of Punjab
Punjab is bounded on the west by Pakistan, on the north by Jammu and Kashmir, on the northeast by Himachal Pradesh and on the south by Haryana and Rajasthan. Punjab extends from the latitudes 29.30° North to 32.32° North and longitudes 73.55° East to 76.50° East.

How to Reach Punjab
Chandigarh and Amritsar both have airports are connected to other cities in India by regular flights. Indian airlines do have regular flights from Chandigarh to Delhi, Lucknow, Leh, and Amritsar. Jet air also has regular flights to Chandigarh.

Gurudwaras in Punjab
Har Mandir Sahib or Golden Temple
Amritsar City. With a part of the land granted by Emperor Akbar, the foundation stone laid by a Muslim Sufi Saint, Mian Mir, the construction was completed in 1601. Free kitchen and recitation of the divine word never cease here. Its four gates invite everyone from all directions, the scripture is unique, it contain the divine message as received by saints, bhagats and pirs of all the faiths of India.

Wildlife in Punjab
Hari-ke-pattan, Amritsar, National Wetland & Wildlife Sanctuary : It is one of the India's most important lakes ; in winters (November-onwards) it becomes a welcome home to nearly 350 species of migratory birds, coming from as far as Siberia. It is also one of India's leading in-land sweet water fish market and home of varied wild life.

Dance of Punjab
Punjab is a land of plenty, of large hearted people and of life. Green fields, hard working men and women and good food are things that come to mind when thinking of Punjab but something that is even more characteristic are the beats of the Bhangra.

Punjab General Information
Area 50,362 sq km Religion Hindus (34.46%), Sikhs (62.95%), others (2.59%) Maximum Temperature 43.33°C

Other Places of Pilgrimage
Bhaini Sahib : Ludhiana, Centre of the sect of the Kukas. The headquarter of Kuka movement is at village Bhaini Sahib near Ludhiana. Their Guru Ram Singh Ji had anticipated the non-cooperation Movement of Mahamta Gandhi and Kukas had taken a leading role in India's freedom struggle. They are also called Namdharis. They had fought valiantly against Britishers and a large number of them laid their life at Amritsar and Malerkotla. They were also against cow sacrifice.

Gardens in Punjab
Bansar Garden, Sangrur : Sangrur is situated on Ludhiana-Jakhal Railway line and is well connected by road with Patiala, Ludhiana, Chandigarh and Bathinda. The Banasar garden, in addition to its walking trails and plantations is famous for its marble Baradari (building with 12 doors), mini zoo and the old Diwan Khana which is a museum now and which stands out of the middle of a pool.

Fairs & Festivals of Punjab
The Festivals in Punjab have always been celebrated with much exuberance and fanfare. For the masses these festivals are popular occasions for social interaction and enjoyment. Punjab being a predominantly agricultural state that prides itself on its food grain production, it is little wonder that its most significant festival is Baisakhi, which marks the arrival of the harvesting season. For the Sikhs, Baisakhi has a special significance because on this day in 1699, their tenth guru, Guru Gobind Singh organized the Order of the Khalsa.

Paradise in Punjab
Punjabis have the reputation of being the greatest producers of good food and being the still greater consumers of it. Punjab has bequeathed the institution of Dhaba-originally a wayside eating joint to the world. The Dhaba moves wherever a Punjabi goes. There are vaishno dhabas where only vegetarian food is cooked in pure ghee or clarified white butter. Dal Makhni, a shining blackish lentil named Urd or Maha of the Dhaba has become world famous and is served in Punjab on all ceremonial occasions.

Museums in Punjab
Punjab museums possess an extensive range of paintings and sculptures by contemporary Indian artists as well as a collection of Indian miniatures of the Mughal Rajsathani, Pahari and Sikh schools. The museums also house a fine collection of medals, arm and armours, objects of princely states with sections on Archaeology, Anthropology, Tribal and folk arts depicting different concepts and scopes in the patterns of Art and Culture.

Shopping in Punjab
Punjab's handloom products and handicrafts and hosiery goods are exported to all the important countries of the world. The hand woven carpets of Amritsar, durees (floor covering), counterpanes handwoven and embroidered woolen shawls, handmade and embroidered juties' (Indian shoes), carved furniture, inlay furniture, lacquer finish furniture, or-namental pyjama strings and prandas, sports goods, leather garments etc. are articles for keep-sakes.

Meghalaya Tourism

2009-02-13T23:58:00.000-08:00

Meghalaya Tourism offers tourists a unique experience that encapsulates peace of mind, natural beauty, and a plethora of activities. Its breathtaking scenic beauty is a treat for sore eyes.

The name of the state literally translates into the ‘Land of Clouds’. Meghalaya’s scenery, lush green tropical hills and valleys, and heavy rainfall have led to the growth of exotic flora and fauna. This state serves as an important tourist attraction in the north-east. Nestled cozily in the north-eastern Himalayan range, Meghalaya has a typically hilly climate which tourists find soothing and salubrious. Cherrapunji and Mausynram in Meghalaya receive an enormous amount of rainfall and are counted among the wettest places in the world.

Tourism in Meghalaya is especially popular due to the Jaintia and Khasi Hills which are quite well-known. These areas are neither warm nor cold. In the Garo Hills, the climate is warmer and humid, but in winter it usually becomes very pleasant. Tourists, however, throng these places throughout the year, irrespective of the season.

The major tourist attractions in Meghalaya are:

Shillong

Shillong is the capital of Meghalaya. Its picturesque setting and salubrious climate were considered suitable for sanatoriums and holiday homes for British civilians, suffering from the sweltering heat of the plains. It is described as 'Mini London'. There are many legends surrounding the name Shillong. One says that it originated from the name of a handsome youth called Shyllong.
Golf Links
Shillong's Golf Course is considered one of the best in India. It is situated in the center of the city, close to the polo ground. It was established in 1898, by a group of British Civil Service officers. Golfers from all over the world come here to test their skills.

Lady Hydari Park
Lady Hydari Park was named after the wife of Sir Akhbari Hydari, the first Indian Governor of Assam who assumed charge on the eve of independence. It has a very attractive garden and the best months to see the flowers in bloom are April to October. Next to the park, is a mini zoo, where many species of birds and animals are kept.

Museum of Entomology
This place is a treasure house of various kinds of exquisite Meghalayan butterflies and insects, some of which are bred and reared by naturalists and then preserved. The most beautiful and sought after Meghalayan butterfly is 'Kaiser-I-Hind'.

Shillong Peak
Forested Shillong Peak, at 1,965 metres above sea level, acts as a vast catchment area. A steep winding road goes right to the top of the peak. On a clear day, you can see the Himalayan peaks and plains of Sylhet from the summit.

Ward's Lake
This artificial lake located in Shillong received its name from Sir William Ward, Chief Commissioner of Assam in 1893-94, because he took a personal interest in beautifying it.

Waterfalls
In and around Shillong, there are numerous waterfalls, especially during the monsoon when they run in milky white torrents: Bishop Falls, Elephant Falls, Spread Eagle Falls, Sweet Falls, Crinoline Falls and Beadon Falls are best known. Bishop or Suna Pani Falls are located west of Mawprem in Shilong. They are 135 metres high and particularly impressive in monsoon. The beautiful Elephant or Umdiengpun Falls are enroute to Sadew, 12 kilometres from Shillong City.

Cherrapunjee

Cherrapunjee has a rich historical heritage and was the first British outpost in this part of the country. Sohra is the original Khasi name for Cherrapunjee. It is 1300 metres above sea level and 56 kms from Shillong. This place is one of the rainiest rain-belts in the world. A pleasant drive to see roaring waterfalls leaping into deep gorges, including the famed Nohsngithiang Falls. The lovely town is also famous for its limestone caves and orange honey. Centre of Khasi culture and literature, it also has the oldest Presbyterian Church and also an establishment of the Ramakrishna Mission.

Mawsynram

56 Kms from Shillong, it is known for the giant stalagmite formation shaped into a Shivalinga, called locally as 'Mawjymbuin'.

Jakrem

64 kms from Shillong, a popular health resort having hot-springs of sulphur water, believed to have curative medicinal properties.

Monoliths in Khasi Hills

In the Khasi Hills are a number of ancient monoliths and table stones, which are either memorials where the ashes of the dead are deposited in cairns or cenotaphs, commemorating memorable events. The upright stones represent men generally and are of considerable size, sometimes projecting 6 metres (20 feet) or more above ground.

Jowai in Jaintia Hills

The most important town in the Jaintia Hills district is Jowai, 1,380 metres above sea level, situated 64 kms from Shillong. The annual festival of Behdeinkhlam is celebrated in great style in Jowai. En-route from Shillong to Jowai, one passes through grassy meadows, colourful graveyards, rice terraces, woods of oak or whispering pine and the meandering Myntdu River.

Nartiang

This is located in the Jaintia Hills about 65 kms from Shillong and 24 kms from Jowai. There are clusters of monoliths in Nartiang that are among the tallest anywhere in the world.

Tura in Garo Hills

The district headquarters of the West Garo Hills is Tura, which is situated 657 metres above sea level. Tura has a picturesque landscape of hills overlooking the sweeping curves of the mighty Brahmaputra River on the plains below. The Tura Peak is very close to town and it is the ideal place for rock climbers, hikers and naturalists.

welcome to jammu and kashmir

2009-02-06T03:16:00.000-08:00

Jammu Kashmir is the first Himalayan state of India, but its not another hill land of India. Jammu and Kashmir is really three regions: the foothill plains of Jammu; the lakes and blue valleys of Kashmir rising to alpine passes, the high altitude plains and starkly beautiful mountains of Ladakh, which lies beyond those passes. It's enough to move one to poetry. Among the most attractive part that this Indian state has is the adventure oppurtunities that can be seggragated into trekking, mountaineering and Trans Himalayan Jeep Safari.

Kashmir

jammu and kashmir

Kashmir is one of india’s most beautiful and touristically popular regions and has been since the time of the great Moghul emperors. It’s probably most famous for the houseboats on picturesque Dal Lake you’ve not really been to Kashmir until you’ve not really been to Kashmir until you’ve stayed on one - but there’s a lot more to the Kashmir Valley than just lazing on board.

Around the capital, Srinagar, there are a number of interesting mosques, temples and forts and, of course, the delightful Moghul Gardens - laid out in formal patterns hundreds of years ago and every bit as beautiful today. But you have to get away from Srinagar, up to the hill stations around the valley, to really enjoy Kashmir. Pahalgam, Gulmarg and Sonamarg are all delightful in themselves, but they also serve as the jumping off points for Kashmir’s many Trekking possibilities.

Jammu

Jammu, the second largest town in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, and is situated 290-km from capital city of Srinagar on the south-eastern slopes of the Shiwalik range. In winter it becomes the headquarters of the Jammu & Kashmir administration and many Kashmiris move here for the winter because the temperature drops.

Ladakh

Ladakh's landscape has more in common with the lunar landscape than any other place on earth. Being in a complete rainshadow region, cut off from the monsoon clouds by the Great Himalaya and a host of subsidiary ranges, it is a cold high altitude desert where the wind, water from the minimal winter snows, and chemical reactions within the rocks themselves, have carved a fantastic, sometimes grotesque, landscape.

Climate Of Jammu & Kashmir

The climate is one of opposites: while in summer time the heat builds upto breaking point in the foothills, people of Ladakh and Kashmir wait for the snow to melt.on the high passes. From October onwards, Jammu becomes a much more pleasant destination. However, the best time to enjoy vale of Kashmir and the adventures of Ladakh region is between the months of May and September.

People And Culture Of Jammu & Kashmir

The majority are Muslims living in the Kashmir valley; culturally and ethnically, the closest links are with peoples in the northwestern highlands of the Gilgit district in the Pakistani sector. While Hindus dominate the Jammu region and Ladakh is majorly influenced by the Trans-Himalayan Buddhism.The Kashmiri language is influenced by Sanskrit and belongs to the Dardic branch of Indo-Aryan languages also spoken by the hill tribes of Gilgit. The great majority of the population resides in the lower reaches of the valley.

The ancient caves and temples of Kashmir, reveal a strong link with Indian culture at the beginning of the Christian Era. At one time the classical dances of the south are believed to have been practised. These arts survived only in folk forms and were performed principally at marriage ceremonies. The popular Hafiza dance performed by Kashmiri women to the accompaniment of Sufiana Kalam was later replaced by the Bacha Nagma, performed by young boys dressed like women. The Bhand Jashna or the "festival of clowns", a 300- to 400-year-old genre of Kashmiri folk theatre performed in village squares, satirizes social situations through dance, music and clowning.

Adventure Sports In Jammu & Kashmir

In the summer season Kashmir offers a series of a little less rigorous adventure sports, such as Water Skiing, on Srinagar's Dal and Nagin Lakes, a popular part time in the valley. Water trekking is calculated to delight anyone wanting to explore the valley in a boat. A Gondala, locally known as Shikara, takes sightseers along a five-day route along rivers and lakes situated within the valley. Enjoy spending nights camping along the way. Trout fishing is another delightful water sport in Kashmir and fishing season lasts all through summer.

What can make a mountaineering expedition, an adventure one could never forget? If its done on the glaciers that are still craving to be explored. The Himalayan range offers some of the most rigorous mountaineering challenges one can ever come across. The glaciers of Ladakh and Kashmir regions can test one's survival to the fittest and most testing of them all is the Siachen glacier, known as the largest glacier outside the Polar Regions.

yours most welcome in jammu and kashmir

welcome to himanchal pradesh

2009-01-04T21:30:00.000-08:00

Blessed with some of the most spectacular and beautiful places anywhere, it is a travellers paradise - lofty snow peaks, deep gorges, lush green valleys, fast flowing rivers, enchanting mountain lakes, flower bedecked meadows, beautiful temples and monasteries steeped in time. May it be for relaxing, sightseeing, trekking, mountaineering, fishing, para-gliding, skiing, ice skating and golf, Himachal has it all.

Himachal is situated in the heart of western himalayas. The state is bordered by Jammu and Kashmir in the North, and Uttar Pradesh in the South-East. Haryana is in the South and Punjab is in the West. Himachal is located between 30"22' and 30"12' north latitude and between 75"47' and 79"4' east longitude. It is a mountainous state with altitudes ranging from 350 to 7000 meters (1050 ft. to 21000 ft.) above the sea level. cheap flights

Himachal Pradesh came into being as a part C State of Indian Union on 15th April, 1948 by integrating 30 big and small hill states. With the recognition of Punjab on 1st November, 1966, certain areas belonging to it were also included in Himachal Pradesh. On 25th January, 1971, Himachal Pradesh was made a full-fledged State.

Since, 1st September, 1972 onwards, there had been no change in the administrative structure of Himachal Pradesh. Presently, there are 12 districts, 52 Sub-divisions, 75 tehsils and 34 Sub-tehsils in Himachal Pradesh.

District	Headquarter
Bilaspur	Bilaspur
Chamba	Chamba
Hamirpur	Hamirpur
Kangra	Dharamsala
Kinnaur	Kalpa
Kullu	Kullu
Lahual Spiti	Lahaul
Mandi	Mandi
Shimla	Shimla
Sirmaur	Nahan
Solan	Solan
Una	Una

Bilashpur : The Bilaspur district is situated in Satluj valley in the outer hills and covers area of 1,167 sq. Kms. Its boundaries touch Una, Hamirpur, Mandi and Solan districts. Satluj is the main river which passes through the middle of the district and divides it into almost equal parts.The New Township Bilaspur should be regarded as the first planned hill town of the country. The best months from visiting this place are from September to December.

Chamba : Chamba valley lies enclosed between two principal spur ranges of the Great Himalaya, the Dhauladhar and the Pangi-Pir Panjal. The sedimentary deposits of the Shivaliks give way to the first granite range in the system, the Dhauladhar. The Pir Panjal runs roughly parallel, to the north but on a converging line, and in between lies the drainage basin of the Ravi, one of the principal rivers of the Punjab. The Ravi arises in two streams, the Kalihain from the glaciers in the Bara-Banghal basin, and the Buddhal from the snowfields of Kugti and Manimahesh. Dividing the two is the outthrust spur of the small Manimahesh range, named after the mountain revered locally as an abode of Lord Shiva.

Hamirpur : This is another area situated at lower elevation and comparatively warmer but has some hilly ranges covered with Pine forests. These hills can be developed for trekking and camping during winter months. This district was made in 1972 by carving it out from the Kangra district. It is well connected by roads from all sides and thus can be promoted as a tourist destination by developing some historical and religious places. At present the known attractions are Deot-Sidh, Temples of Sujanpur Tihra and Nadaun. Hamirpur town is the Headquarter of this District, which lies on Shimla Dharamshala road.

Kangra : Kangra town is 18 km from Dharamsala. This was the first seat of Raja Sansar Chand II (1775-1823) .One of the ancient capital of powerful hill state-fort of Nagarkot(3km) stands as a mute witness to the ravages of conquerors from Mahmood of Ghazni to the Emperor Jehangir, and the disastrous earthquake of 1905. The place is now called "Purana Kangra". 2km from the bus stand is the temple dedicated to the goddess Barjeshwari Devi. Known for its legendary wealth it was invaded in 1009 AD by Mahmud of Ghazni who departed with King's ransom in gold,silver and jewels. Earthquake of 1905 destroyed it completely. Rebuilt in the present form in 1920, it continues to be a busy palce of pilgrimage. Old Jain temple and Gupt Ganga are the other attraction of the town. Jayanti Devi temple is 7 km and the Kangra mandir railway sation 3 km from the main bus stand.

Kinnaur :The remote tracts of Kinnaur, Lahaul & Spiti are bound together by a rich Cultural tradition, rivers, steep mountains, valleys and passes. All essential Facilities are available at these remote places due to networking of Roads. The natural beauty of the region is heightened by hospitable people Who till the recent past lived in secluded isolation. Kinnaur, it is said, fell from the heavens as a gift from the gods. Its people, the Kinners, according to ancient Hindu texts, are halfway between humans and gods. Sarahan, gateway to Kinnaur, is revered as one of the shakti peeths and the seat of power of the Bushair rulers. From here one approaches Sangla valley, one of the beautiful sights of Kinnaur, and district headquarters Recong Peo, Kalpa, Kinner Kailash, a mythical abode of Lord Shiva, can be viewed from here.

Kullu :The most charming and beautiful Kulu valley spreads out its charm on either side of river Beas. The valley runs north to south of this river and is 80kms. long and about 2kms. at its broadest. Yet with awe inspiring glens and mossy meadows encircled by the rushing streams and meandering brooks, flung east & west, a fairly wide area is open to the tourists, the trekkers, the mountaineers, the artists and to anyone who wishes to escape the heat & dust of the plains to breathe the exhilarating air of the Himalaya and enjoy the spectacle of the variegated mountain scenery. The valley is also famous for its exquisitely woven colourful hand made shawls and kullu caps.

40 kms. away from Kulu to the north, Manali is situated near the end of the valley on the National Highway leading to Leh. The landscape here is breath taking. One sees well-defined snow capped peaks, the Beas river with its clear water meanders through the town. On the other side are deodar and pine trees, tiny fields and fruit orchards. It is an excellent place for a holiday, a favorite resort for trekkers to Lahaul, Spiti, Kinnaur & Leh. It is known as the SWITZERLAND OF INDIA.

Lahaul-Spiti : and This is a craggy area that is located between LadakhTibet in the north and the Kullu valley in the south. Lahaul begins 51km north of Manali, right after crossing the 3978m (13,127 ft) Rohtang Pass. You go through this area when you travel north from Manali to Leh. Many of the peaks here are over 6000m, the highest being Mulkila at 6,500m. It is basically a dry barren hilly area with some green areas. It has some interesting Buddhist gompas and secluded villages. There are some good treks in this area. About half the people in Lahaul are Buddhist and the other half are Hindu. Permits You only need a permit if you are going between Tabo and Rekong Peo, the capital of Kinnaur.

Kaza : Kaza is the main town in Spiti. It is a nice town that is divided into two basic areas, the "old town" and the "new town." New town is basically some government buildings (the District Magistrate office is there).

Mandi : The historic town of Mandi (800 m) is built along the banks of the river Beas. It has long been an Important commercial centre, and the sage Mandvya is said to have meditated here. This one time capital of the princely state of Mandi is a fast developing town that still retains much of its original charm and character. Today, it is a district head quarters. Mandi is renowned for its 81 old stone temples and their enoemous range of fine carving and is often called the 'Varanasi of the Hills'. The town also has the remains of old palaces and notable examples of 'colonical' architecture. Mandi is the gateway to the Kullu valley and acts as the base for several exciting excursions.

Shimla : Shimla the summer capital of India before independence is now the capital of Himachal Pradesh. Shimla derives its name from "Shyamala";- the goddess Kali, whose temple existed in the dense forest that covered Jakhu Hill in the early 19th century and numerous at a height of . The English named it Simla. Covering the area of 18 sq. km.7,238 ft. Shimla is surrounded by pine, deodar, oak and rhododendron forests. Its well developed facilities, easy accessibilitybeautiful places make it one of Indian's most popular and biggest hill-stations.

A narrow-railway links Kalka with Shimla. This important rail-link was built in 1924 and its "toy trains" still ply between the two stations, passing through 105 tunnels and beautiful rail-road stations.

degrees in winter to a maximum of Situated in the North-West Himalayas, the climate of Shimla varies from a maximum of 10-1125-26 degrees in summers. During the monsoon, we see some of the best sunsets in the world. Winter in Shimla is known as the season of "Long moon-night".

Kasauli is a charming little town about 12 kms from the Shimla-Kalka road. Its colonial ambience is reinforced by cobbled paths, quaint shops, gabled houses and scores of neat little gardens and orchards. Kasauli is a pleasant alternative to staying in Shimla; it is devoid of its crowds and is still close enough.

Sirmaur : The district of Sirmaur is in the south eastern corner of the state. It is famous for its places of pilgrimages and for the legends that surround them. Sirmaur is a triangle of 3 important tourist places namely Nahan, Renuka and Paonta Sahib is a historic town pleasantly located on a ridge of the Shivalik Hills. It has beautiful , have attracted many tourists all round the year. Nahangreen forests and valleys especially in Choordhar peak. There are many attractions available in this triangle. One can visit these places either in the order we have explained or first visit Renuka then Nahan and lastly Paonta Sahib from Shimla side or the vice versa.

Solan : Blessed with a pleasant climate all the year round, Solan is the district headquarters of Mashru, another city established by the British, is named after the Goddess, Soloni Devi, whose temple is located in the southern end of the town. Solan is well known for its brewery 4.8 km from town started in 1835 with Anglo-German co-operation, and known as Dyer-Meakin Brewery, producing excellent larger beer and quality whisky. Chir pine clothes the Shimla Hills, which yields resin and timber, while apricots and walnuts grow all over the hills, maize and paddy are the two leading grains. Vegetables and variety of green chillies are extensively grown in the Shimla Hills. The area surrounding Solan in very rich in peas, tomatoes, ginger and beans.

UNA : Una district is in the South-Western part of Himachal Pradesh. In the Western part also there is hill range whose maximum height is about 600 metres. The altitude varies from mere 350 metres to over 1,200 metres on the Solahsinghi Dhar. Shivalik ranges experience heavy rainfall. The hill ranges are covered by scanty vegetation comprising mostly of shrubs. Una has been carved out of Hoshiarpur district of Punjab in 1966 where the hilly areas of Punjab were transferred to Himachal Pradesh and the whole area is warm. It has borders with Kangra, Hamirpur and Bilaspur and then acts as a gateway to these regions. Efforts are being made to develop same places in Nangal and Bhakra areas.

Welcome to Travel Uttarakhand

2008-12-27T03:32:00.000-08:00

Uttarakhand is one of the most beautiful places in the World and has always been a favourite tourist destination. We at traveluttarakhand.com believe that the real potential of Uttarakhand is still only partially explored and the place has much more to offer than what has been revealed already. One side the place boasts of a rich and diverse flora and fauna to incite an intrepid traveler to explore more in the mystic ways of nature then on the other it also offers the requisite solitude and ambience to some one who is ready to embark on the journey of spiritual exploration.

Travel Uttarakhand.com strives to provide useful information and world class services to its valued visitors as we envisage becoming the preferred ‘one stop travelers shop’ for every traveler who decides to visit Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand (a paradise on earth) became the 27th state of the Republic of India on November 9, 2000. At the time of formation the state was named Uttaranchal but recently the name has been changed to Uttarakhand.

Uttarakhand is a part of the Western Himalayan ranges starting from the Shivalik foothills to Greater Himalayas. It shares the International borders with China in the north and Nepal to the east. It’s neighbouring states are Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

Dehradun is the capital of uttarakhand. Uttarakhand is a region with full of natural beauty, 4 major holy places : Kedarnath , Badrinath, Gangotri & Yamunotri, Prayags, Wild Life Sanctuaries are major contributor in its economic growth. Now Uttarkhand is centre of attraction in the Indian Tourism. Because of its snow covered peaks and rare wild life species it is a favourite tourist destination for all local and foreign tourists. The best time to visit Uttarakhand is summers

The name of Utarakhand is also mentioned in epics of Mahabharata as devbhoomi ( place of God) and Its evidence is Dehradun name derived from dronnagri.

Generally we divide Uttarakhand In two regions on the basis of lingual and cultural differences. They are Garhwal and Kumaon.

Places of Tourist Interest

Almora : Almora is cultural centre of Kumaon and a picturesque mountain resort. Sunrise offers a particularly beautiful view of the greater Himalayas. Almora is also called a town of temples. Situated in the center of the town is the temple of Goddess Nanda Devi. Situated at an elevation of 5400 ft, in the Kumaon Hills, Almora is known for its healthy climate. Almora is a horseshoe shaped town spred on a 5 km long mountain range.

Badrinath & Kedarnath : The temples of Shiva and Vishnu at Kedarnath and Badrinath have been the destination of pilgrims for centuries. The route to the two sources begins at Rishikesh and passes ancient temples and Valleys along the way. Badrinath is one of the four Dhams; a devout Hindu has to visit in his lifetime to attain salvation. One of Hinduism's holiest sites, it was founded by Sri Shankaracharya, in the ninth century. The temple, also known as Badri Narayan, is dedicated to Vishnu, who is said to have done penance in the mythical Brindavan that once covered the mountains of Uttarakhand.

Kedarnath : Kedarnath is the most important Hindu shrine in Himalayas, and among the major Shiva temples, of the country. Located at the source of the river Mandakini, Kedarnath is one of the twelve Jyothirlingas, of Lord Shiva, and one of the Panch Kedars. Mythology identifies the deity at Kedarnath temple, with the rump of a bull, a form assumed by Lord Shiva, when eluding the Pandavas, who had come for repentance for killing their kith and kin, in the great battle of Kurukshetra. It is believed that the Pandavas constructed the temple of Kedarnath.

Corbett National Park : Corbett National Park lies in two districts - Nainital and Pauri - in the hill state of Uttaranchal in northern India. It covers an area of 521 sq. km and together with the neighbouring Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary and Reserve Forest areas, forms the Corbett Tiger Reserve over 1288 sq. km. Corbett has been a haunt for tourists and wildlife lovers for a long time. Tourism is allowed in selected areas of Corbett Tiger Reserve so that people get an opportunity to see its splendid landscape and the diverse wildlife living here.

Dehradun : Nestled in the mountain ranges of the Himalaya, Dehradun is one of the oldest cities of India and is recently declared as the Provisional Capital of newly created Uttarakhand State in the month of Nov'2000. The city has many beautiful rest houses and good hotels to provide accommodation to the tourist. For many years, it has been one of the best known educational centres in northern India. Dehra Dun is well linked by rail and road with Delhi, Bombay, Calcutta, Lucknow and Varanasi.

Gangotri : In the hinterlands of the Himalayas is Gangotri where, it is believed, Ganga, the stream of life, touched earth for the first time. According to the Hindu religious scriptures, the goddess manifested herself in the form of a river to absolve the sins of King Bhagirathi's sons, following his penance of several centuries. The Goddess Ganga is worshipped by the devout as a deity. The Gangotri temple was built in the early 18th century by a Gorkha commander, Amar Singh Thapa and later rebuilt by the Maharaja of Jaipur.

Yamunotri : Yamunotri, the source of the river Yamuna, is the westernmost shrine in the Garhwal Himalayas, located on a flank of the Bandarpunch peak. The trek along the riverbank is quite magnificent, dominated by a wide panorama of mountains.

Haridwar : Haridwar, on the right bank of River Ganga at the feet of Shivalik ranges, an ancient pilgrim city is one of the holiest places for Hindus. Haridwar is at the point where the river Ganga spreads over the northern plain. It lies at the base of the Shivalik Hills where the Ganga passes through its last gorge and begins a 2000 km journey across the plains. One of the four venues for the Kumbh Mela, a festival held once in twelve years, it is among the seven sacred cities of India. A holy dip at Har-Ki-Pauri is a must for every devotee.

Rishikesh : Rishikesh is one of the most popular pilgrim centres and gateway to the Himalayan shrines of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, & Yamunotri. The Yoga centres of Rishikesh have enhanced the significance of the place. Legend has it that the sage Raibhya Rishi did severe penance and, as a reward, God appeared to him in the form of Rishikesh. Rishikesh also represents the site where Lord Vishnu vanquished the demon Madhu. The place is known as the Tapo Bhumi or the place for meditation of the Gods. In the 1960s, the place came into limelight as the place where the pop group Beatles met their guru, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi.

Mussoorie : The queen of hill stations is about 89 km from Haridwar and the salubrious climate and deep woods make it an ideal hill station. The name, Mussoorie, derives its name from plants of 'Mussoorie', found in abundance here. After its discovery, this place gradually developed as a center of education, business, tourism and beauty.

Nainital :
Dotted with lakes, Nainital has earned the epithet of 'Lake District' of India. Nainital’s unending expense of scenic beauty is nothing short of a romance with awe-inspiring and pristine Mother Nature.

Ranikhet :
Ranikhet is a place, which has preserved its virginity and pristine charm. The sweep of Himalayan range visible from here is arguably the largest available from any place. It is a pure heaven 6,000 feet above the sea level, away from the bustling lifestyle of city life. In Ranikhet, nature's beauty overwhelms with its sheer abundance. It is believed that the hill resort of Ranikhet derives it name from the Rani Padmini, queen of Raja Sukherdev, the local ruler. The queen was awe-struck by the beauty of the place. The queen was so captivated by the place that she decided to stay there, and the place came to be known as Ranikhet i.e. "the queen's field".

Uttarakhand is a region of outstanding natural beauty. Most of the northern parts of the state are part of Greater Himalaya ranges, covered by the high Himalayan peaks and glaciers. Two of India's mightiest rivers, the Ganga and the Yamuna take birth in the glaciers of Uttarakhand, and are fed by myriad lakes, glacial melts and streams in the region.

Weather

Uttarakhand has two distinct climatic regions: the predominant hilly terrain and the smaller plain region. The climatic condition of the plains is very similar to its counterpart in the Gangetic plain. Summers are extremely hot with temperatures going over the 40°C mark and a lot of humidity. Winters can be chilly with temperatures going below 5°C at times.

Tourism

Indian National Parks in Uttarakhand include the Jim Corbett National Park (the oldest national park of India) at Ramnagar in Nainital District, Valley of Flowers National Park and Nanda Devi National Park in Chamoli District, Rajaji National Park in Haridwar District, and Govind Pashu Vihar National Park and Gangotri National Park in Uttarkashi District. Berinag and Chaukori are tiny, pristine hill stations with spectacular views of the Himalaya peaks.

Festivals & Events

The people of Uttarakhand celebrate almost all the major Indian festivals including Basant Panchami, Bhitauli, Harela, Phooldei, Batsavitri, Ganga Dusshera, Dikar Puja, Olgi or Ghee Sankranti, Khatarua, Ghuian Ekadashi and Ghughutia. Kumbha (Kumbha means pot) Mela is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage takes place at Haridwar where the river Ganga enters the plains from Himalayas. Haridwar is one of the four locations where pilgrimage occurs once at each locations every twelve years.

When to Go

The best time to visit Uttarakhand is during the summer, when the weather is very pleasant. Some parts of the hills will be inaccessible in winter. The plains region is best visited in winter, when the weather is milder.

Interesting Fact

During the period of their stay in Rishikesh in Uttarakhand, Beatles, the famous pop group wrote forty-eight songs.

Write about Uttarakhand

If you are Uttarakhand insiders or had been to Uttarakhand recently, then we request you to contribute to our site. Share your knowledge and experience today with fellow visitors of this website! To submit your travelogue (Travel Story) .

travel

2008-12-26T03:42:00.000-08:00

English learners generally have one thing in common: they love to travel and find out about new cultures. One of the main reasons most of us learn a new language is in order to try it on by going to a country where they speak the language. Of course, in order to get there, you have to travel. That's when travel vocabulary becomes absolutely necessary. Here is a quiz with related travel vocabulary for four means of travelling: by rail, by bus or coach, by air, and by sea. Use the following words to fill in the gaps in the travel chart. Each word or phrase is used only once.To travel the world cheaply I know that I need to learn basics of the local languages of every country that I intend to wander in for a considerable amount of time. I figure that if I wish to remain in a country for more than two weeks it is well worth the time and effort to learn how to hold basic communication in the dominant tongue of the region. In point, if I cannot ask the price of something or understand basic number words, I am hanging at the mercy of every shopkeeper and market merchant that I have to deal with. If I cannot barter for food, say yes, no, thank you, please, that is too expensive, or get away from me, then I am basically Vegetable Lasagna floating in a sea of otherwise competent humanity. To speak is to be human.