Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

The one-time summer capital of the British, Shimla is a gorgeous hill station in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Located at an average height of 2,200 meter, Shimla is unique with its unparalleled glittering beauty. Set in the midst of impressive hills and dense jungles this hill town has its own charm. Its elegant streets, plummeting torrents and salubrious climate make it a thriving hotspot for honeymooners. Shimla is also the kick off point for the rest of Himachal, with well-knit roads.

This erstwhile Nepalese state Syamala, gained prominence as the most sought after hill station under the auspices of the progressive British officers who had acquired its control in the year 1819. The snow-capped mountains, quaint surroundings and the mighty formations of Victorian style that dot the city, reverberates the colonial texture of the city. 

It is not just the substantiation of some grand monuments and colonial architecture that Shimla offers, it is also home to the most pleasing meanders and panoramic views that attract adventure enthusiasts and honeymooners alike. 

Like the other Indian cities, fairs and festivals are the highlights of Shimla tourism. The awesome British populations of the yester years make Christmas a fanfare of the valley. The most significant event in the valley is the Summer Festival organized by the Government in the month of June, which showcases the rich culture and tradition of the Himalayan states. This largest fun fare of the hilly states grabs people with the colorful performances of folk dancers and other activities based on the rich rustic tradition. 

In Autumn, Shimla looks gorgeously beautiful and when the days are balmy and dazzling and the night’s crunchy and chilly. A typical hilly terrain with a picturesque countryside, wonderful climate and viable social standards, it is quite natural that this hill station has been acquired the status of a preferred and much loved picnic spot in India.

Visit amazing Shimla. Contact Shri Sai Travels for booking exclusive travel packages for Shimla and Shimla honeymoon packages

Source: http://www.mustseeindia.com/Shimla

Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Renowned as the queen of valleys, this beautiful hill station in the lower Himalayas is close knit with the legendary law giver of ancient India, Manu. It is believed that, Manali is the place where the ark of Manu found its resting after a great flood. Manali, which literally means the abode of Manu, has got remarkable significance in the ethnic culture and tradition of India. 

With skyscraping mountains bounded by blizzards and deep rock spread ravines Manali presents a distinguished holiday spot for all. The chunky afforests with cool gentle winds, vast expansion of meadows, small quaint settlements and lovely orchards, give a majestic look to the serene ambiance of Manali. 

Besides the splendor of its natural vista, a lot of other interesting activities are in store in Manali. A trendy holiday spot, Manali offers outstanding opportunities in mountaineering, trekking and skiing. The unexplored hilly route to the adjacent valleys is an awe inspiring experience. 

With scores of artifacts, the malls and other shops of Manali offer a delightful shopping experience to tourists. Gifted with breathtaking sceneries, Manali serves as a perfect place for those who want to be in the midst of blossoming greens and valley views. 

Contact www.shrisaitravels.com for booking exotic Manali package tours and honeymoon packages for Manali

Source: http://www.mustseeindia.com/Manali

Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir

Srinagar, arguably a city that embodies romance & beauty, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir; perfectly placed in the center of the Kashmir Valley is aptly called the Venice of the East. Srinagar literally meaning 'the city of wealth & abundance' in Sanskrit, was founded around 150 AD by King Pravarasen II. Situated on the banks of the river Jhelum, Srinagar is surrounded by beautiful lakes like Dal, Nagin and Anchar, whose glittering waters reflecting the rays of the sun is a sight to behold. Its vividly vibrant & beautiful houseboats sailing along the scenic Dal Lake against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayan snow clad mountains makes Srinagar a dream destination for every traveler.

Not only known for its beauty, Srinagar also has a special place in the history of ancient India. Excavations carried out here have identified many valued evidences of ancient settlements dating back to 5,000 years. The artifacts collected from the excavation are displayed in Srinagar museum, which include arrowheads, animal skeletons, implements, tools and pots from the Neolithic age. 

Irrespective of the season, Srinagar attracts tourists throughout the year to enjoy its snow clad mountains, colors of fall & greenery of the summers. Dal Lake, the largest lake, spread across 26 sq.km is home to the maximum number of houseboats & Shikara's. No trip to Kashmir is complete without a stay on one of its luxurious house boats & a boat ride on a 'Shikara' along the pristine lake. 

While the winters offers visitors the beauty of snow clad mountains & crisp, chilly winter breeze; summers showcases the plethora of colors on the canvas of nature from deep greens, to autumn browns & deep oranges.

Some of Srinagar's best kept natural beauties is at the sprawling Mughal Gardens - which houses the Shalimar Bagh & Nishat Bagh. Lake side views, magnificent sunsets, floating markets, verdant greens, authentic Kashmiri cuisine & hospitable locals are just some of the reasons why tourists from all over the globe flock to this 'Paradise on Earth'.

Some of the must see places in this splendid lake side city include the well laid out Mughal Gardens, the pristine Dal Lake, enjoy a relaxing Shikara ride, bow down at the Shankaracharya temple, indulge in shopping for the famous Pashmina shawls and Kashmiri handicrafts & last but not the least, enjoy some adrenaline rushing activities like skiing, trekking, white water rafting, paragliding, camping and Kayaking.

Enjoy a fun filled vacation in Srinagar. Contact Shri Sai Travels to book Kashmir tourism packages and honeymoon package for Kashmir

Source: http://www.mustseeindia.com/Srinagar

Usta Kaam – Gesso Painting

The craft derives its name from its makers, the Usta, a community of craftsmen who migrated from Multan in Pakistan to the mughal court at Delhi and later, on being invited by Raja Rai singh, to Bikaner.

Gesso painting is also known as Nakashi art at its origination place. The technique was used to ornament the walls, pillars and ceilings of Bikaner’s Junagadh Fort and Anup Mahal with resplendent golden motifs of delicate floral and animal forms, often set against detailing in radiant colours. During the time of British in India, Nakashi work on camel leather became popular. Camel hide was light and unbreakable, and saddles and bags that were commonly used for transporting water became common bases for Nakashi work in this desert kingdom and adjoining areas. Leather work is an old craft in India that began as a cottage industry, and continues, in large parts, as such.Leather work as a cottage industry functioned with different groups performing different roles in the preparation of the leather, and in crafting products from leather. The fact that India has a very large livestock population has contributed in no mean way to the prolific output and continuity of this craft.

The craft process begins with the making of a clay mould on which a piece of previously cleaned and softened camel hide is stretched. The piece is dried in the sun for a maximum of 48hours before the mould is removed. Then begins the akbara, or design making process, wherein the pattern is embossed onto surface using a paste of powdered bricks mixed with jiggery and fenugreek seed powder. The coloured are first painted in, followed by gold detailing and thin black outlines that serve to define the motifs and background. Finally, the ground colour, usually red and green, is applied and the entire surface is coated with traditionally prepared varnish called chandras. The most popular gesso compositions at Bikaner is the taarabandi , a star studded sky and naqqashi, a pattern of minute flowers and motifs.

Contact Rajasthan travel agents to visit the incredibly beautiful state of Rajasthan. You can also extend your tour with a Golden triangle tour with the trip

Source: http://forhex.org/usta-kaam-%E2%80%93-gesso-painting

Sam Sand Dunes in Rajasthan

Sam Sand DunesAddress:Thar Desert, JaisalmerReport a map errorLatitude / Longitude: 26.91273, 70.79933This most picturesque spot around Jaisalmer has silken smooth sands look like a tale out of the Merchant of Venice and camel safaris are much in vogue. 3km long, 1km wide and as much as half a kilometer high, the dunes are as treacherous as they are scenic. If you opt for a camel ride stay very close to your raika (guide) as only he can maneuver you through the quicksand, which has sucked many an unwary goat to its gruesome death. There is no vegetation here and the swirling winds are almost as intense as the khamsins (sandstorms) in the Sahara.

The time comes to a grinding halt when you lie in the setting sun listening to the ballads of the legendary lovers Moomal and Mahendra (for details see- Moomal Ki Meri) on the Jew’s harp or the narh (a traditional musical instrument). Sleeping under the uncovered star-studded sky is an out of the world experience that makes one fall in love with the haunting beauty of the dunes.  

Open-air cultural extravaganzas, puppet shows, folk dance performances, camel races, competitions and general festivities organized amid these dunes every year, gives a spark of life to the desert, turning the place into a cultural hub. The old ruins and the various temples are again not to be missed. 

Specifically, trip to the Thar Desert is incomplete without visiting the Sam Sand Dunes- an aura of romance in solitude.

Book a Jaisalmer holiday package or a Golden Triangle trip with Rajasthan and enjoy the beauty of the Thar Desert

Source: http://www.mydestination.com/rajasthan/things-to-do/132755/sam-sand-dunes

Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur

The Nahargarh Fort was built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jaisingh II. As with the Jaigarh Fort, it was intended to provide additional protection for the Amber fort.

The fort's name has an interesting legend behind it. It is said that the original name of the fort was 'Sudarshangarh'. However, as work was on, excavating the area for the fort, the resting place of the saint Nahar Singhji Bhomia was disturbed, and his spirit began haunting the construction site. On advice from his spiritual preceptor, the king eventually changed the name of the fort to 'Nahargarh' after the saint, and also built a temple for him within the fort premises. It was only then that the haunting ceased and the work on the fort was able to continue! The fort might no longer be haunted, but this fort comes the closest to a haunted one in the area, as it was the only one which was completely deserted when we visited - as compared to the other forts which were packed with chattering tourists!

Nahargarh might not be among the more popular tourist destinations in Jaipur - there are too many with more interesting stories and monuments....We came here after our tour of Jaigarh, and Amber was planned for later in the day, so we didnt really have too much enthusiasm to explore this fort fully. However, what I did see of the fort was interesting enough to write about.. I would recommend a visit here if you are ever in Jaipur!

Book a tour package for Rajasthan or a Delhi Jaipur Agra trip and visit the exotic forts and palaces of Rajasthan. Another must visit Rajasthan forts is the Golden Fort of Jaisalmer

Source: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/

The City Palace, Home to Royalty

The City Palace, is located in Udaipur India, Rajasthan. The City Palace was constructed by the then Maharana Udai Singh. As at present the City Palace Udaipur is one of the major tourist attractions in the city of Udaipur. Initial construction of the City Palace Udaipur was done in 1559. Over the subsequent years numerous additions have taken place to the City Palace. The city Palace is in fact a collection of many other palaces built by the various residents of the palace. The City Palace in Udaipur resides on the eastern banks of the Lake Pichola. From the magnificent balconies of the City Palace one can gaze and gain a panoramic view of the world renowned Lake Palace or the "Jag Niwas" as it is called. One can also gain a view of the Udaipur city and on another side the Jag Mandir.

The major entrance point to the City Palace Udaipur is through a triple arched gate, the gate is given the name Tripolia. The Tripolia at the City Palace in Udaipur was built in the year 1725. From here one can gain access to the courtyards, the terraces, the gardens and corridors. The vivid glass mosaic decorations on the walls of the Mor-Chowk give it the name Peacock courtyard. At the Bhin Vilas one can see depictions of the Hindu god Krishna.

Some of the other palaces include the Dilkhush mahal, Moti mahal and Sheesh mahal. The Krishna vilas was made in remembrance of a beautiful princess who tried to stop a battle between adversary princes for her hand by poisoning herself.

You can book Golden Triangle Tours India along with a trip to Rajasthan from the best Rajasthan tour operators and visit these exotic Indian cities

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/the-city-palace-home-to-royalty-745380.html

Ranthambore, Rajasthan

A tiny village that derives its name from two hills - Ran and Thambor, Ranthambhore in the state of Rajasthan is endowed with a magnificient environment. Its deciduous forests are rich in flora and fauna that inhabits a wide span of all species. A land, which boasts of a legendary history, was the stronghold of the Yadavas in the 8th century. Later in the 10th century, it came under rule of the mighty Chauhans, which continued as such till the Mughals acquired its possession. 

Rathambore is a dream destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Famed for its avid wildlife, Rathambore proffers a picturesque ambiance with rocky smudges, lovely hills, pretty lakes, ponds and beautiful ravines. Its rugged terrain and strategic location in the midst of Vindhya and Aravalli ranges makes it a perfect asylum for those estranged and exotic breeds in the Animal Kingdom. 

Rathambhore is famous for the Wildlife Sanctuary by the same name where one can witness the juxtaposition of wildlife, history and nature. Dotted with so many structures of the past, Ranthambhore offers the fabulous mixture of a heritage site as well as the magical charm of a rich wild life. The ruins of yesteryears, which are spotted through out the length and breadth of the forests give Rathambhore a unique and invigorating appeal. 

A pictorial place with extensive range of dazzling landscapes, Rathambhore offers something unusual to its visitors. The mesmerizing ride through the undulating grasslands, gushing streams, open scrubs, densely wooded valleys, deep ravines flanked by steep peaks would definitely provide one with a rejuvenating vigor. 

Ranthambhore would be the best place to squander if the traveler in you is quite proud of the rich legacy of an ancient township. Its majestic relics like the ruined pavilions, crumbling walls, wells, and other glittering edifices of kingships quench your thirst to be in the midst of a glorious past.

You can book travel packages to Rajasthan from best Rajasthan travel agencies. You can also extend your tour with a Desert Safari in Jaisalmer

Source: http://www.mustseeindia.com/Ranthambore

Golden Triangle Tour - Glimpse of the Diversities

India is the most celebrated historic tourism destination for the people all across the globe because of the diversities and the colors present in it. The golden triangle tour is one of the most amazing ways of absorbing most of the essence of north India. The golden triangle tour packages attracts everyone regardless of the age and it covers the most renowned touring circuits and it has everything for the amateur first timers, art lovers, luxury or budget travelers or even private tours. The tourist circuit of the Golden triangle includes the three main beautiful cities i.e. delightful Delhi, amazing Agra and jubilant Jaipur, which cover the most admiring tourist spots of the north India.

The Delhi Agra Jaipur tour package is generally of seven to ten days and they are enough to take the glimpse of the diversities and enjoy India. The three cities are a delightful to watch and under mentioned is the details of the three cities-

Delhi: The best part of the golden triangle tour packages is the capital hub of India since from the prehistoric days Delhi has set up a huge mark in the list of tourist spots because of the beautiful monuments and the fantastic forts there. The culture of Delhi is different because of the numerous dynasties, which ruled the city, and the monuments built then are still attractive. The Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Parliament house, India gate are some of the most famous places of the city. Each has their different importance and they make the Delhi Agra Jaipur tour very attractive and pleasant. The Red fort remind of the age of royalty, the Jama masjid which is one of the finest monuments of India and the Chandni Chowk which gives the glimpses of the residing place of the immortal Mahatma Gandhi adds to the attraction of the Golden triangle Tour packages.

Jaipur: The next stop of the golden triangle tour is the majestic city of Jaipur, the erstwhile city of royalty. Most of the buildings in this city were painted pink which beautified it and lead its name as the Pink City. The red stucco buildings, the Mahals, the forts and the different malls, which we get to see here is nowhere available in the world and they are delightful to watch. The Hawa Mahal, Jama Masjid, Jal mahal are some of the names but there are endless heart throbbing fantastic forts in the city.

Agra: The final destination of the Golden triangle tour packages is the lovely city Agra and whole world knows about the First Wonder of the World – the Taj Mahal. The city is though famous for the Taj Mahal but there are many more attractions as in the Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Buland Durwaza and many more are there to make the Delhi Agra Jaipur tour one of the best tours of India. The golden triangle tour packages cover the most beautiful parts of India and the circuit completes in Delhi thus giving the people an experience, which they will last forever.

Book your Delhi Agra Jaipur tour to visit these amazing destinations. You will be enthralled by a Golden Triangle Tour of India

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/golden-triangle-tour-glimpse-of-the-diversities-4739369.html

Golden Triangle Tour Cultural And Historical Tour of India

One of the most popular and fascinating tour of Northern India, the Golden Triangle Tour comprises the capital city Delhi, the beautiful city of Taj Mahal 'Agra' and the majestic royal capital of Rajasthan 'Jaipur'. This beautiful combination has been named golden triangle tour India because of the astonishing wealth of historical and cultural magnificence offered in each of these three cities.

Golden Triangle Tour  Can Be Cover in 3 Days or 4 Days or 5 Days or More. According To Me, You Should Spend 2 Days in Delhi, 2 Days in Agra, 3 Days in Jaipur, So That You Can See Everything Monuments And Attractions in These Places. There so Many Options With Golden Triangle Tour Like Golden Triangle Tour With Udaipur or Pushkar or Ranthambore or Ajmer or Gwalior or Orchha And Khajuraho Etc. All These Combinations are Very Popular. And Many More. I Feel These Websites are Very Good Because They Provide You the Proper Guideline For India Tours.Explore the historical and cultural magnificence of popular tourist places in India - Delhi, Agra & Jaipur with the single packaged Golden Triangle tour by India Travel Packages. If you love beaches, you can also include a break to Goa with our Golden triangle tour with Goa beaches. You will not stop yourself to visit these important and world famous monuments on your travel and tours in north India.

Delhi

Delhiis the destination of all seasons and all tourists irrespective of their taste. It is the capital of India renowned for monuments, museums, art galleries, architectural buildings, eating joints and bustling markets. This city is the juxtaposition of two different worlds namely Old Delhi and New Delhi. Old Delhi was once the capital of Islamic rulers. It is famous for its historical monuments like Red Fort, Jama Masjid, crumbling havelis and formidable mosques. New Delhi is the imperial city created during the reign of the British rule. The famous tourist attractions of this region are India Gate, Parliament House, zoological park and gardens.

Agra

Agra is the the most visited tourist destination of India because of the Taj Mahal. It is one of the seven wonders of the world situated on the bank of river Yamuna. This is the monument of immense love which was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The architecture of Taj Mahal is known for its perfect fusion of Indo-Islamic design and decorations.

Golden triangle tour is the most popular and affordable way to explore several world renowned monuments and places of India. It is one of the popular tour packages among tourists who come to India from several parts of the globe. Because of its popularity tour operators added number of other popular tourist destinations in this tour package. This customization provides an opportunity to tourists to explore several other enchanting tourist destinations of India.

Jaipur

Jaipur the pink city of India is famous for its enthralling forts and palaces, captivating havelis, colourful shop lanes and lively fairs and festivals. Large number of tourists come here to explore the leftover saga of Raj culture. The mind-blowing monuments of this place are a testimony to the glory of royal dynasties who ruled this place for centuries. The famous structures which are visited by large number of tourists are Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Amber Fort and Jantar Mantar. This fabulous city of India is also renowned for its number of fairs and festivals which add vibrancy to it. The Kite festival and elephant festival are two most popular festivals of Jaipur.

Visit Rajasthan Tour Packages  website or Rajasthan tour operator for booking Golden Triangle Tours of India.

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hotels-articles/golden-triangle-tour-cultural-and-historical-tour-of-india-5497807.html

Riding The Train Of Your Dreams

Indian tourism offers you a chance to live a royal life in a very different way. Luxury train rides have been introduced to give tourists a chance at traveling through to different places of interest, and while doing so, live the life, culture and dreams of the rich and grand. This is all about having your cake and eating it too.

There are two major trains which operate luxury tours in India. These include the Palace on Wheels and the Deccan Odyssey. The Palace on Wheels is a luxury train which has a tour that lasts about seven days. Nothing is left to chance, and there is no stone unturned to making sure that every traveler is treated like a king. The train itself has about fourteen suites. Each saloon or suite comes with four rooms which have twin bedding. The rooms are complete in themselves. They have attached bathrooms which are fully equipped. There are two restaurants on the train which offer delectable cuisine from all over the world. There is also a bar which houses the choicest spirits which are local and also international.

The interiors of the train are all fashioned in the same grand, regal style of palaces. There is great attention to detail, and everything is enhanced on a very large scale. The ambiance, the mood, festivities and facilities are all planned to give travelers a taste of the riches of Western India. As the train takes you through the state of rajasthan, Agra and New Delhi, you will get a real taste of how things can really be done in a manner which is larger than life.

The Deccan Odyssey is another such train which works through the tourist attractions in Maharashtra. It moves all the way to Goa, and then turns inwards before it returns to its starting point, the city of Mumbai. True to its name, the Deccan Odyssey is a sojourn that takes you through the best of the Deccan plateau, giving you a chance to sample it in real style.

The saloons on board are well designed, providing every luxury that can be imagined. There is a feeling of warmth and friendliness on the train, which makes it a very homely place to be. The train houses in it two restaurants, the facility to shop, and even a massage center and gymnasium. There are separate smoking and non smoking areas demarked in the train. The train makes you so comfortable, you are almost reluctant to leave and explore the cities outside.

Other luxury trains popular in India are Royal Rajasthan on Wheels and the historic Fairy Queen that includes a trip to Sariska Tiger Reserve in its itinerary. While the luxury train rides do take you to places which are very interesting and have lots of life, the train ride itself is not suited for traveling with children. It is very laid back, and has a relaxing feel. There is not enough for them to feel stimulated and occupied through the seven days. This is best explored by couples or with friends.

Visit website for booking Rajasthan package, Jaisalmer sightseeing and Golden Triangle Tours of India

Source: http://article-niche.com/launch/Luxury-Train-Rides-In-India-Riding-The-Train-Of-Yo.htm

Jaisalmer District, Rajasthan

Jaisalmer is a district that is situated in the heart of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan. This district is popular for its glittering sand dunes and yellow sandstone. It is the only region in India that has the yellow sandstone. That is the reason why the city of Jaisalmer, lying within the district is also known as the Golden city.

Location of Jaisalmer:

Located in the middle of the Thar Desert it is the largest district in Rajasthan. The width of Jaisalmer is 270 kilometers while its length is 186 kilometers. On the north the district forms its boundary with Bikaner in the north, in the east with Jodhpur and Bikaner and in the south by Barmer. On the west and southwest lies the Indian border with Pakistan.

History of Jaisalme:

Maharawal Jaisal was the founder of this city. The district grew later. The history of Jaisalmer is steeped in legends. Its very foundation is based on the prophecies by lords.

Travel Information on Jaisalmer:

Jaisalmer is accessible from Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur and all other major cities of Rajasthan. While the nearest airport is located in Jodhpur the district is also well connected by road. Railways are also a convenient mode of transportation for reaching Jaisalmer. 

Accommodation in Jaisalmer:  

Adequate accommodation arrangements have been made for the tourists. There are luxury as well as budget hotels here. the services are quite impressive. Whether it is a luxury hotel or an economy one the rooms are well furnished and all necessary measures are taken to make the trip comfortable for the guests.

Jaisalmer City: 

It is the place where the fort of Jaisalmer is located. It is also the venue where most of the fairs and festivals take place.

Places of Interest in Jaisalmer:  

There are several places of interest in Jaisalmer. While most of these are historically significant their architectural grandeur cannot be overlooked. Most of the important local attractions are located within the Jaisalmer Fort. One will be astonished to find a number of Jain Temples. Temples dedicated to Parsvanath, Chandraprabhu, Rishabdev, Sambavnath, Shitalnath, Shantinath and Kunthanath. There are havelis as well as museums too. 

Places of Interest around Jaisalmer: The sites around the district are either known for their forts or deserts. Some of the excursion tours are held from Jaisalmer city. However the neighboring regions of Barmer is also part of the tours from the district. 

Book holiday package for Jaisalmer from online Rajasthan travel agencies and get customized Rajasthan Packages

Source: http://www.indianetzone.com/23/jaisalmer_district_rajasthan.htm

The Golden Triangle Tours : Dream Fulfilled

The Golden Triangle Tours come with a package of tours in Agra, Delhi and Rajasthan. All these places are filled with famous monuments, forts, palaces, markets etc which attracts the tourists. All the three destinations are well connected with each other through road, rail and air. Holidays in northern India without a golden triangle tour are like food that is tasteless. Great hospitality services are offered to the travelers so as to make the vacation a joyride with fun filled moments.

Delhi is the capital of India. It is an architectural heritage. There are not only historical sites all over Delhi but also modern shopping malls which have varieties of national and international brands. The foreign tourists seek to align with the culture of India foe which they choose the Golden Triangle Tours as these make their traveling experience much lighter and enjoyable. Delhi houses the Qutub Minar, Red Fort, Akashardham Temple, Jantarmantar, India Gate, Humayu tomb, Purana Qila and the Garden of five senses which attracts a lot of tourists. There are enumerable eating hubs and restaurants offering multiple cuisines. There are also water parks and adventure parks which have been built here. The government organizes various fairs and shopping exhibitions regularly promoting various handicrafts from all over India. Other shopping places are Dilli Haat, Connaught place, Janpath etc.

Agra is city situated on the bank of Yamuna River. The Mughal era buildings are spread all over the city the architectural beauty and splendid designs glorify each buildings reminding one of the past royal era .Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri attracts the highest number of travelers from all over the world. These are listed as the UNESCO world heritage sites. In The Agra fort and Fatehpur Sikri certain Rajasthani architectural features can be found. Taj Mahal which is one of the Seven Wonders of the World was built by a grief stricken Emperor Shahjahan as a memorial to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.

Rajasthan is a dream destination for most of the travelers. Holidays in this colorful land is a royal experience. With forts and palaces studded all over the area Rajasthan speaks of the past splendor which history depicts. The trip to organized by the Golden triangle tour following Delhi and Agra completes the cultural experience. Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and is also called Pink city. 

The Hawa Mahal and amber Fort are major tourist attractions here. Udaipur is the city of lakes and has a number of forts and palaces that have been converted into hotels and resorts. There are a number of Hindu and Jain temples in Rajasthan. The Dilwara temple is a cluster of temples very famous among the jain devotees. Rajasthan is often called shopper’s paradise. It is famous for various textiles, semiprecious stones, bandhni print on the clots and also kathputlis. The folk dances and songs makes one’s journey a memorable experience.

There is much to explore in India .One can feel the past history unfold with open eyes once they get a chance to visit the historical monuments which form a great part of the various tours. One such tour is The Golden Triangle Tour which guides a traveler in a new land towards getting the most out of their investment.

You can book customized Golden Triangle Tour of India by contacting an online travel agent. You can also extend your tour with a Rajasthan Tour package to have a glimpse of the heritage of the country

Source: http://article-niche.com/launch/The-Golden-Triangle-Tours-Dream-Fulfilled.htm

Desert Safari in Jaisalmer

With record limits of temperature, rural life in its entire naturally colorful swagger and an eerie sense of the unknown deserts that mesmerize all travelers, the place brings a unique touch to the myriad of wonders of the Indian culture. 

Although an important constituent of the rich and historic sands of Rajasthan and more so the oriental Indian flavor, Jaisalmer continues to stand out and amuse generations on a strength of homegrown local culture. A desert safari in Jaisalmer is as essential on trips as paying homage to the Taj Mahal in Agra in person or a sumptuous ride of Shikaras in Srinagar’s Dal Lake.

Deserts in Jaisalmer have caught the flights of fascination of one and all. Withstanding the continuous pressures of high levels of heat hovering around an average of 50 degree C, they are far from easy. However the ‘highs’ derived from adventuring the naked and enterprising deserts in the true colors cannot be substituted by any other natural confinement. The raw dust of gold all over with only a camel for support is a lifetime experience in its own.

Times may have changed dramatically in the last millennium; however the camel in a desert safari in Jaisalmer continues to be perhaps the single most symbol of tradition in its youth. With limited water (as good as being breathless in deserts) and bumpy and uneasy rides, the camel-ride is still a popular experience and is looked forward to by anybody who has heard or read about Rajasthan.

Glimpses of Rajasthan through a Tourist’s Eyes

From foreign tourists who are not at all well-versed with the locally humid temperatures, to film makers of the class and stature of Satyajit Ray, Jaisalmer has successfully attracted the cream of tourism communities and is still widely sought after. The sprawling deserts along with the simple and hospitable breed of local inhabitants make any tourist’s time memorable.

A memorable experience can only be cultivated by spending some quality time with the local camel riders and their carefully crafted intuitions of time and weather simply by looking at the behavior of sands. The rich historic cities and monuments with ample anecdotes and timelines create a sense of continued chivalry and hallmark of sacrifice that came naturally to the warrior clans of this land. A desert safari in Jaisalmer is incomplete by itself if the city and its rich culture are not befriended on the way. 

Camel Rides and Beyond

Rajasthan along with all its towns, provinces, rural areas and cities is incomplete to relive without the distinct and satiating gourmet that is prepared on an out and out local flavor. High on calories and rich in taste, the local preparations have attained fame and pomposity across the world. 

Most of its age old forts and erstwhile palaces have been transformed into awesome sights of audacious touring and hoteling experiences. Making the most out of the growing industrial globalization in international tourism and the attached convenience that comes with it, an excursion in Rajasthan is much more than just a routine desert safari in Jaisalmer. Still famous for its desert culture are also the folk dances and musical songs that are sung by gypsies and rural womenfolk at nights in groups on deserts.

Jaisalmer Desert Safari is one of the most memorable travel experience while a tour of Rajasthan. Visit http://www.rajasthan-tourism-packages.com/ for booking Desert Safari in Jaisalmer

Source: http://www.mustseeindia.com/articles/desert-safari-in-jaisalmer/2550

The Top Most Visited Destination of India

The options for touring in India are in plenty that it becomes difficult for the tourist to decide on which tour package he should take to experience the charm of incredible India. India offers many tour packages that have remained popular forever and the tourist does not have to think twice before taking it. One such appealing tour packages are the golden triangle tour packages that cover the three beautiful cities on north India; Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur.

Golden triangle tours are not only about Agra, which houses The Taj Mahal (seven wonder of the world), or Qutub Minar (UNESCO world heritage site); but the tour are about other beautiful attractions of the places. These attractions are:

Food: Delhi is famous worldwide for its amazing chaats. There is Bhelpuri, Gol Gappa, Tikki, tasty sweet dishes, and everything that a tourist can think of. Delhi is one city where different cuisines of India as well as cuisines of other countries can be found easily. Every corner of the city is famous for its tasty and spicy chaat. Agra is another city that is popular for its mughlai cuisine that is rich in spices, dry fruits and condiments. Jaipur is no exception I offering spicy Rajasthan cuisine. Rajasthani cuisine combined with warm-hearted hospitality of the people, Jaipur feels like home. One reason for the amazing taste of food is the richness of food with cream, butter, oil, etc. sweet dishes like Petha of Agra, Ghevar of Jaipur have a unique taste that cannot be found anywhere else.

Travel: all the three cities of the golden triangle tours are well connected with each other via road. The road journey is comfortable and the tourists can discover other places on the way. For example, while going from Delhi to Agra, tasting food at Murthal haveli, and local Dhabas is appealing to the taste buds. Also, tourists can visit the local villages and other small cities that form a very important part of India. The beautiful landscapes and other views on the journey are another interesting reason to travel by car and not by air.Shopping: shopping is like an integral part of holiday.

Book your Golden Triangle Tour of India to visit these amazing destinations



Source: http://articles.everyquery.com/articles-experience-the-deligtment-in-pushkar-fair-53780.html

City Palace, Udaipur

City Palace of Udaipur, the majestic white royal building towers itself on a hill and is surrounded by crenellated walls. The palace was completed in its present form by the contribution of many rulers. Originally started by Udai Singh, the later additions were so carefully planned and integrated with the original building that it becomes difficult to believe that the building was not conceived as a whole. The palace stands along the shores of Lake Pichola.

Approach to the palace is through the ‘Hati Pol’ or the ‘Elephant Gate’. The ‘Bara Pol’ or the ‘great gate’ leads to the first court, which joins Tripolia or the ‘triple gate’. Between the two gates are eight carved ‘toranas’ or arches, which mark the spot where the rulers were weighed against gold or silver, the equivalent value of which was then distributed among the poor. Beyond the Tripolia is the arena where the elephant fights were staged.

The path then leads to a series of courtyards, overlapping pavilions, terraces, corridors and hanging gardens – a harmonious profusion hard to describe.The soft cream coloured central ‘Chhatri’ has facing of blue coloured tiles with massive octagonal towers crowned with cupolas. The Sheesh Mahal has inlaid mirror work. The Krishna Vilas has a series of miniature paintings, which are witness to the royal processions, festivals and the game of ‘Chogan’.

The Raj Aangan or the royal courtyard is built by Maharana Uday Singh and it is the oldest part of the complex. The Mahals of the palace has been reformed as the Museum now. These mahals boast of beautiful glass works, paintings and antique furnitures. The City Palace has more to offer with the Suraj Gokhada or the balcony of sun and the Mor Chawk or the peacock square. Mere descriptions of such places will not suffice of their elegance. A visit to the City Palace Udaipur is a must and will be a life time experience. 

Book a Rajasthan package including Udaipur and Jaisalmer sightseeing tours from the reputed Rajasthan travel agencies.

Source: http://www.india-tourist-places.com/category/north-india/rajasthan/%20-%20Rajasthan/

India’s Golden Triangle: the remix

India is seeing an ever-increasing number of visitors who come to experience the unique blend of headiness that the subcontinent so effortlessly brews. The route between Delhi, Agra and Jaipur has, for many years, been a veritable ‘India 101′ – an introduction to those on tighter travel schedules. Although the trail is undeniably well trodden, there’s still plenty to discover for DIYers, or for those with an afternoon away from their tour group. We’ve collected a few oft-missed attractions that are well worth seeking out during your visits to Agra and Jaipur.

Agra: experience the Mughal legacy

From Delhi, head southeast via private vehicle (about four hours) or by train (figure roughly two hours) to Agra, home of the wondrous Taj Mahal – a resounding tribute to a lost love and undoubtedly the most brilliant manifestation of the Mughal dynasty’s design aesthetic. The glistening white marble and the swirling, minaret-like towers never fail to impress.


While the Taj Mahal was built to honour the dead, Fatehpur Sikri, located 40km from Agra, was very much a place for the living. The palace’s grand human scale is immediately captivating – it’s impossible not to feel haunted by the ghosts of the emperor, princesses, valets and concubines that once roamed the hallowed courtyards.When you’ve maxed out your memory stick with snaps of forts and palaces, head to Kaya Kalp, a 99,000 sq ft spa located at the ITC Mughal (www.itchotels.in/hotels/itcmughal.aspx), which takes guests on a sensorial journey back to an era of excess and great conquest. It is well documented that the members of the Mughal elite enjoyed the trappings of a luxurious lifestyle, with ample gardens, feasts, harems, sweeping palaces and many other ostentatious manifestations of wealth. At the ITC Mughal you’ll find a sumptuous reproduction of that bygone era – in fact, the hotel has remained so precise and true to the Mughal dynasty that it was the recipient of the Aga Khan Award for architecture in 1980.

After pushing through the massive wooden doors, the spa’s cardinal design element becomes immediately apparent: a ruby red pomegranate. It is commonly believed that Barbur – the first Mughal emperor – came to Rajasthan from Ferghana (in present-day Afghanistan), a lush kingdom with plenty of fruit-bearing trees. When Barbur decided to stay, he instructed his architects to recreate his elaborate gardens and plant a variety of orchards, including the pomegranate – his undeniable favourite. Further evidence of the pomegranate’s importance has been documented on many stone carvings within Agra Fort. The coveted pomegranate also features in the spa’s signature treatment, an exfoliating scrub made from pomegranate peel, orange rind, pomegranate seeds and brown sugar.

Jaipur: hidden temples in the City of Forts

From Agra and Fatehpur Sikri, plough westward to Jaipur (about three hours by private vehicle), where further spoils of the Mughal lords await. Known as the Pink City for its ribbon of walls that extend throughout the central core (the city doesn’t actually look particularly pink), Jaipur is the gateway to Rajasthan’s cache of rugged landscapes, photogenic cities and elaborate palaces.


Most visitors make a beeline for Jaipur’s surrounding hills dotted with parched trees – a hint that a great desert (the Thar desert) sits not too far beyond. Here lies one of the city’s great attractions, the Amber Fort (pronounced ‘amir’); yet another great legacy of a long-lost empire. While most tourists mount the ramparts on a regal-robed elephant, try driving around to the back of the fortress and start your journey within the simple hamlet of Amber dating back to the 11th century. Here you’ll find the Shri Jagatshironmani Temple, built at the request of Queen Shringar Devi Kanakaway (wife of Man Singh, ruler of Amber) between 1599 and 1608. The temple is particularly rare because Krishna is not depicted with his usual consort Radha, he is instead accompanied by ‘Mira Bai’, a princess who became a mystic, and later Krishna’s lover. The temple’s name translates to ‘the head jewel of the idol of Lord Vishnu’. During your visit you may spot the groundskeeper watering the plants and gently sweeping the stairs – his family has been caring for the temple for over 20 generations.

Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/india/travel-tips-and-articles/77114#ixzz290Z8ioeO
 

The Maldives

The Maldives is an archipelago of 1,190 coral islands and sand banks (200 of which are inhabited) divided into 26 atolls that extend over 511 miles across the Indian Ocean. The country has been at the forefront of the international debate on climate change because 80% of its land lies less than three feet above sea level, and climatologists predict that sea levels will rise by a minimum of three feet by the end of the century, completely submerging the islands.

The Maldives’ palm tree studded pure white sandy beaches and crystal clear blue lagoons teeming with marine life attract over 500,000 tourists annually. The Maldives is a strict Muslim country, so in an effort to preserve local culture, visitors are only permitted on 11 of the 26 atolls. All activities on the Maldives are linked to the sea: take a scuba diving or snorkelling tour of the archipelago’s pristine coral reefs; go on a sea plane ride for spectacular views; lounge in a hammock beneath the shade of a coconut palm, or get pampered in one of the many spas. The Maldives is not a budget destination, so go prepared to splurge—big time – and start saving now, as the islands are among the most endangered on this list.

To book exotic holiday packages to Maldives including Maldives cruise and best Maldives packages from India, please visit the website

Along the Tranquil Trails of Thekkady

Known for its pristine natural beauty, Thekkady is a very popular destination that people from all parts of the country frequent. The countless trails here and the varied wildlife can at once delight and overwhelm you during your visit to the region.

Kerala is famous for its natural bounty. Its proximity to the ocean and the Western Ghats running through the state has made it a humid place, which is also blessed with perennial rainfall. This is the reason for its lush forests and hills and valleys that are covered with lush greenery and tumbling mountain streams.

Thekkady

Thekkady is about 200 km from Cochin, which is also the nearest airport. The Western Ghats help to sustain many rivers, and the Periyar River flowing through Thekkady is one such river, which is also the site of the Mulla Periyar dam. Thekkady is famous for its elephant and tiger reserves and trails. There are many tea and spice plantations through which herds of wild elephants travel regularly.

Nature Trails

 Located at about 100 km from Munnar, Thekkady is a nature lover’s paradise. There are many trails around Thekkady for those interested in experiencing nature first hand. The place is cool and humid, and so the best time to visit is between September and May. The nearest airport is in Kochi, which is 200 km away, although there is a small airport in Munnar, which is about 95 km away.

Thekkady Tiger Trail

The Tiger Trail is unique because the guides who take you on this trail are former poachers who have turned a new leaf and are doing their bit to help preserve and conserve our forests and its wildlife. Therefore, they have an unmatched intimate knowledge of these forests and the trails. Options include 2 days/1 night or 3 days/2 nights, depending on your schedule.

Typically, this trail will include 5 visitors, 5 guides and 2 forest officials, and a distance of 25–30 km should be covered. You will have to stay in pitched tents and eat vegetarian food prepared by your guides. The tough conditions of the trail indicate that only medically fit people between the ages of 15 to 65 can be admitted to the trek.

Importantly, Thekkady offers fun for those who love adventure and Nature. It is advisable to prepare yourself beforehand and pack adequately to take these amazing trails into the dense forests.If you are a beginner, it is advisable to take one of the easier and shorter trails. However, if you are an experienced trekker, then you can explore these dense forests with their abundant wildlife that can take an entire day to cover with the assistance of an experienced tribal guide. However, local restrictions limit the number of people to 5 in the case of short trails and 10 in case of long trails. Therefore, plan your trip to Thekkady accordingly.

Visit Kerala! Book Kerala travel deals, Kerala Honeymoon Packages and Munnar Honeymoon Packages now!

Rejoice at the Elephant Festival

The Elephant Festival is celebrated in the month of February or March, and it attracts a lot of spectators from across the country and abroad. This royal festival is organized to showcase the pompous and majestic royalty of Jaipur during the Holi festival

In India, the elephant is considered as a majestic and holy animal since the prehistoric era. The supremacy of elephants is well illustrated throughout the Hindu mythology.  Elephants have been a huge force of strength in many wars. Legends say that during “Samudra Manthan” (churning of the ocean), the Gods were fortunate enough to receive “Airavata”, the elephant that later became the divine vehicle or “Vahana” of Lord Indra.

The festival is celebrated each year in February or March during Holi, which is the festival of colors. With Holi being celebrated throughout the country, the elephant festival adds spice to it. The classy attires and myriad colors on the elephants truly represent the festival of Holi.

The elephant has become a symbol of royalty in Indian tradition and culture, there are many festivals associated to it. The Jaipur elephant festival is one-of-its-kinds festival where the elephants are given utmost importance. The whole town of Jaipur comes alive with dancers, musicians and elephants that attract visitors from all over the globe. Only female elephants take part in the festival. They are magnificently decorated in the festival to give the spectators a majestic feel; their tusks and trunks are beautifully colored.

Elephant festival is celebrated in the famous Chaugan grounds in Jaipur. The festival commences with an enormous parade of all the decorated female elephants marching towards Chaugan grounds. Various competitions are organized so that the tourists and local people enjoy it to the full. The elephants are engaged in races, polo matches and a tug of war with men to enthrall the spectators. They are at their best during this festival and you can find them enjoying the attention and cheering from the crowd. The elephant keepers or mahouts decorate their elephants from head to toe for the “Best Decorated Elephant” contest, which is a major feature of this cultural fest.

Tourists witness special dance and talent shows by the elephants. Famous folk dancers and local musicians participate in this festival amidst colorful lightings that add to the overall entertainment of the spectators.  This festival also showcases the glorious royalty of Jaipur and allows the tourists be a part of it. Tourists can take elephant rides and play Holi sitting atop the elephants giving them a never-like-before experience.

To visit the Elephant festival book Golden triangle tours India, Golden Triangle Tour with Rajasthan or Rajasthan Tours in India