AGRA

The city of Agra was founded in the 16th century and marked the world’s architectural splendour map with the construction of the Taj Mahal. Today, Agra has become synonymous with the Taj Mahal, "the epitome of love" and one of the most beautiful wonders of the world.

Taj Mahal: This monument of love in sparkling white marble is the epitome of beauty and grandeur. The Taj Mahal was built in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Situated on the banks of sacred river Yamuna, the construction of Taj took 22 years. Beautiful gardens, gateway structures and mosques complete the entire Taj complex.

Agra Fort: Built by Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, the Agra Fort is another masterpiece of Mughal architecture dotting Agra's landscape. The Agra Fort is regarded as a great fusion of Islamic and Hindu styles of architecture. The entire monument has been built using red sandstone.

Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb: Built in memory of her father by Mughal empress Noorjahan, the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah is also called the 'Baby Taj'. This mausoleum is known for its elaborate carvings and inlay work. The tomb contains cenotaphs of Empress Noorjahan's parents. This tomb is also built in white marble.

Fatehpur Sikri: Fatehpur Sikri, within close proximity to Agra, speaks of the architectural splendor of Mughal rule. The one thing that strikes tourists on entering Fatehpur Sikri are the magnificent buildings in red sand stone. Fatehpur Sikri was built by Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century.

AMRITSAR

Amritsar, the city of Golden Temple earns its fame as a Sikh pilgrimage site with numerous holy places of the Sikh religion in and around the city. Golden Temple is the cradle of Amritsar with the city growing around it nurtured by its divine sanctity. The temple is coated in gold and placed within a reservoir of holy water – the only holy place of Sikhism where one has to descend to reach the temple!

Tourist Attraction of Amritsar

Golden Temple: The holiest shrine of the Sikh religion is in the centre of the old part of town. The temple itself is surrounded by a water reservoir, which gave the town its name. A causeway connects the temple in the middle of the reservoir and a loudspeaker broadcasts a continuous reading of the Holy Book, the Guru Granth Sahib, in Punjabi. The high priest who reads from the holy book sits on the east side of the temple. On a daily basis, free food is served to all devotees and visitors to the temple, a trademark of Sikh religion, which firmly believes in community welfare.

Jallianwala Bagh: This park is just five minutes walk from the Golden Temple and commemorates the sacrifice of 2000 Indians at this site, who were shot indiscriminately by the British in 1919. This was one of the major events in India's struggles for independence. Remains of the horrific massacre, with bullet marks and the well into which some people jumped to escape can still be seen here.

Wagah Border: About 28 kms from Amritsar, is India – Paskistan’s border, the Wagah Border. Wagah border is popular with tourists to see "Beating the Retreat" ceremony performed by the soldiers from both countries every evening. Soldiers from India and Pakistan perform a flag march and bow flags of both countries as a sign of respect for each other.

Ram Bagh: This beautiful garden is in the new part of town and also has a museum in the small palace built there by the Sikh Maharajah Ranjit Singh. The museum contains weapons dating back to the Moghul times and some portraits of the ruling houses of Punjab. The museum is closed on Wednesdays.

Tarn Taran: Tarn Taran is an important Sikh tank, about 25 km south of Amritsar. There's a temple and tower on the east side of the tank which was also constructed by Ranjit Singh. The temple pre-dates Amritsar and is considered to have healing powers.

AURANGABAD

The city of Aurangabad was founded in the 15th century. The city has always been a prominent region on India’s Deccan plateau and has a long artistic and cultural history to which several dynasties have made major contributions over the years. Today, Aurangabad is renowned as one of the fastest growing industrial towns in India, especially in the automobile sector.

Tourist Attraction of Auranabad

Bibi Ka Maqbara: Commonly known as 'the poor man's Taj Mahal' the Bibi Ka Maqbara was constructed in 1679 by Aurangzeb's son, as mausoleum for his mother Rabia-ud-Darani. Situated to the north of the city, Bibi ka Maqbara is the poor imitation of the Taj Mahal both in design and execution, and is the only example of Mughal architecture on the Deccan plateau.

Daulatabad Fort: One of the finest examples of war strategy and intrigue, Daulatabad Fort is situated enroute between Aurangabad and the Ellora Caves. The magnificent hilltop fortress of Daulatabad Fort lies at a distance of 13 km from Aurangabad city. Muhammad Bin Tughlaq, known as the 'mad sultan of Delhi’, built this fort in 14th century. Daulatabad fort is surrounded by 5 km of sturdy wall, while the central bastion tops a 200 mtr high hill. Climb to the top of the fort for getting fantastic views of the surrounding areas.

Ellora Caves: Located at a distance of 30 km from Aurangabad, Ellora Caves complex is home to 34 monasteries and temples dedicated to Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism. Built between 5th – 11th century, Ellora caves are home to the largest single monolithic structure in the world. Ellora Caves bring the civilization of ancient India to life and are a unique masterpiece of co-existence and amalgamation of Hindu, Jain and Buddhist religions.

Ajanta Caves: Ajanta Caves, the first Buddhist caves, date back to the 2nd and 1st centuries B.C. are one of the world's greatest historical monuments. There are 30 caves at Ajanta, of which 5 are chaitya-grihas and the rest are monasteries. Ajanta caves are a masterpiece of mud-plaster paintings in tempera technique, made over centuries since the 2nd century. All paintings show heavy religious influence and centre around Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and incidents from Buddha’s life. Today, the sculptures and paintings at Ajanta are considered masterpieces of Buddhist religious art.

BIKANER

The royal fortified city of Bikaner has timeless appeal. Lying in the north of the desert state of Rajasthan, the city is dotted with many sand dunes. Popularly called the ‘Camel Country’, Bikaner is renowned for the best riding camels in the world.

Tourist Attractions of Bikaner

Junagarh Fort: Built in 1593 A.D by Raja Rai Singh, a general in the army of Emperor Akbar, Junagarh fort is a formidable structure encircled by a moat and has some beautiful palaces within.  These palaces, made in red sandstone and marble, make a picturesque ensemble of courtyards, balconies, kiosks and windows dotted all over fort.

Lalgarh Palace Museum: Located 3km north of the city centre, this red sandstone palace was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh (1881-1942) in memory of his father Maharaja Lal Singh. Apart from its architecture, sprawling lawns with blooming bougainvillea and dancing peacocks make this Palace a not-to-be missed visual treat.

Shri Lakshminath Temple: One of the oldest temples of Bikaner, this is the temple where the foundation of Bikaner was laid in the year 1488 A.D. by Rao Bikaji.

CHANDIGARH

Chandigarh is the best-planned city in India with world renowned architecture by Le Corbusier. As the joint capital of the states of Punjab and Haryana, the Union Territory of Chandigarh is a prestigious city of India.

Tourist Attractions of Chandigarh

Capitol Complex: This complex consists of the famous Secretariat, the High Court and the Legislative Assembly. These buildings are the hallmark of high profile architectural creation. In the center is situated the official emblem of Chandigarh, 'The Open Hand'.

Rock Garden: Created by celebrated artist Nek Chand, the garden has been made completely from waste materials, industrial waste and thrown away items. Rock garden has been established in the form of an open-air exhibition hall and houses sculptures made by using a variety of different discarded waste materials. A unique creation, the rock garden attracts tourists from different parts of the world who visit Chandigarh to see this amazing site. Several world-class performances have taken place in this creative and naturalistic open-air theatre of Rock Garden.

Rose Garden: The largest rose garden of Asia named the Zakir Hussain Rose Garden is located in Chandigarh and displays an amazing range of over 1600 rose species. The best season to visit this place is during the end of February when the Rose Festival is celebrated here.

Government Museum and Art Gallery: The Government Museum and Art Gallery is renowned for its collection of stone sculptures, miniature paintings, decorative arts and coins. The collection of the Art Gallery is one of the most distinctive of its kind not only because of its richness but also because it contains some objects of art unparallel in the country. The most famous section of the museum is undoubtedly the Gandhara Sculpture Section, which contains 627 Gandhara works of art.

International Dolls Museum: This museum has a wonderful collection of more than 300 puppets and dolls from various countries of the world for the purpose of entertaining the children. It is one of the most popular places for children to visit in Chandigarh.

DELHI

Delhi, the capital city and power seat of India, is divided into two parts – Old and New Delhi. The walled city of Old Delhi narrates the history of the city, whilst the contemporary New Delhi reflects the cosmopolitan face of India. From the chaotic streets of Chandni Chowk to the imposing features of Lutyen’s Delhi, this capital city encapsulates the extremities of historic and modern India.

Tourist Attractions of Delhi

India Gate: Located at the heart of Delhi, the names of all the soldiers who laid down their lives during the Afghan war are inscribed here. India Gate pays homage to all Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives to uphold the honour of their motherland. India gate is surrounded by lush green lawns on both sides.

The Red Fort: The Red Fort in old Delhi is a magnificent example of Mughal architectural style. The fort was constructed by Shahjahan in the 17th century when he decided to shift his capital from Agra to Delhi. The beautiful interiors of the fort, including intricate carvings, throw light on the luxurious lifestyle of Mughal rulers.

Qutab Minar: Qutab Minar is located at Mehrauli in south Delhi. A fine example of early medieval period architecture, Qutab Minar was built by Qutub-ud-din-Aibak in the 13th century. Built in red sand stone, the Minar rises to a height of 72.5 metres from the ground. There are intricate carvings and verses from the holy Quran inscribed on the walls of the Minar.

Jama Masjid: The great mosque of Old Delhi is both the largest congregational mosques in India and the final architectural extravagance of Shahjahan. Having three gateways, four angle towers and two minarets standing 40m high, the mosque is constructed with alternating vertical strips of red sandstone and white marble. The courtyard can hold about 25,000 people.

Chandni Chowk: Meaning ‘Silver street’, Chandni chowk is the main street of Old Delhi, one of the most congested and most colourful bazaar of India. At its eastern end (towards the Red Fort) is a Digambara (sky-clad) Jain Temple, a Shiva temple and Gurudwara Sis Ganj dedicated to the 9th Sikh Guru Teg Bahadur who was beheaded here by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The western end is marked by the Fatehpuri Masjid, which was built by one of Shahjahan's wives. The bazaar is one of the largest and busiest wholesale and retail markets of India, where you can find almost everything ranging from clothes, fabrics, watches, shoes, books, gems and jewellery etc.

Humayun's Tomb: built in the mid-16th century by Haji Begum, the senior wife of Mughal Emperor Humayun, this tomb is a wonderful example of early Mughal architecture. It is considered to be the predecessor of Taj Mahal. The Emperor along with his wife and other members lay buried here. It is built in classic Persian char bagh style - a central tomb surrounded by gardens.

Gurudwara Bangla Sahib: Located in the heart of Delhi, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, one of the most popular Sikh temples of India, was the erstwhile royal palace of Raja Jai Singh, who dedicated this palace to the sacred memory of the 8th Sikh Guru Harkishanji. Today, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is one of the most popular Sikh temples in active worship, visited by thousands of devotees on a daily basis. The Gurudwara also houses one of Delhi’s largest holy water reservoirs and communal kitchen where tons of food is cooked and served for free daily.

Bahai (Lotus) Temple: Among the relatively newly built attractions adorning Delhi's landscape is the magnificent Bahai Temple, more popularly called ‘Lotus Temple’. Built with meticulous care in the shape of a lotus, the temple is a great example of modern architecture. A deep serenity pervades the entire place. The temple is surrounded by beautiful gardens on all sides.

Jantar Mantar : located in the vicinity of Connaught Place, Jantar Mantar is an astronomical observatory with masonry instruments designed by the Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur in 1725. It's a collection of salmon-coloured instruments including a sundial and others that plot the course of planets and determine the time based on the direction of the sun.

Rashtrapati Bhawan: The official residence of President of India is a superb example of British architectural style during colonial period. There is a slight ascent of Rajpath from India Gate leading to Rashtrapati Bhavan. The gardens of Rashtrapati Bhavan, particularly Mughal gardens rank among the gardens in India.

Raj Ghat: Raj Ghat is the place where the samadhi of Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, is situated. Located in a sprawling well maintained campus, people in large numbers visit Raj Ghat to pay respect to the Mahatma. The place has a very serene ambience.

Connaught Place: In the heart of New Delhi, this is the stylish circular commercial and tourist centre of Delhi. It is an architecturally uniform series of white buildings mainly occupied by shops, banks, restaurants, state tourist offices, airline offices and travel agencies.

Akshardham temple complex: this temple epitomizes 10,000 years of Indian culture in all its breathtaking grandeur and beauty. The Akshardham experience is an enlightening journey through India’s glorious art, values and contributions for the progress, happiness and harmony of mankind. A relatively new addition to Delhi’s tourist map, Akshardham is unique and modern and strikingly different to any other temple in India.

DHARAMSHALA

Dharamsala is the closest one can get to Tibet while still being in India. This quaint hill station is home to His Holiness, the Dalai Lama, the spiritual and political head of the Tibetan Buddhists and a destination for those seeking spiritual salvation.

Tourist Attractions of Dharamsala

McLeod Gunj: Tibet has lent importance to Mcleod Gunj. Fondly referred as the little Lhasa, McLeod Ganj draws more fame from the residence of His Holiness Dalai Lama more than anything else. The little township with clusters of monasteries and Buddha Statues is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Dharamsala. McLeod Gunj is also known for its Tibetan market and has several handicrafts which are made by the Tibetans themselves.

Church of St. John in the wilderness & Lord Eligin's Memorial: Fifteen minutes' walk from McLeod Gunj, the Anglican church lies in the forest near Forsyth Gunj. This neo-Gothic stone church was built in 1852 and has some fine Belgian stained-glass windows. It miraculously survived the 1905 earthquake - only the spire collapsed. A memorial to Lord Elgin stands in the churchyard. The British Viceroy died in Dharamsala and is buried here.

Dip Thekchen Choeling Monastery: The Dip Thekchen Choeling Monastery is the best place if one intends to know deeply about the Buddhist faith. The monastery stands tall in the pine forests and is visible from a distance due to its golden roof. The first floor of the monastery is a museum with bronze figures, Buddhist images and a collection of mandalas (works of sacred art in Tantric (Tibetan) Buddhism).

Norbulingka Institute: This Tibetan Institute is the premier institute in the world which offers courses of study for Tibetan culture and arts. The Norbulingka Institute houses three academies namely 'The Centre for Arts', 'The Academy of Tibetan Culture' and 'The Literary and Cultural Centre'. The institute is famous for producing Tibetan gift items, paintings, woodworks, metalwork, fashion accessories, silk paintings, furniture, Buddhist artifacts and much more.

Chamunda Devi: Chamunda Devi is the famous temple dedicated to the Goddess Chamunda Devi. It is situated in the village of Dadh,15 km from Dharamsala. The pilgrimage site holds immense reverence for devout Hindus and whenever in Dharamsala people of the faith make it a point to visit the shrine here.

Tibetans Children Village School: From its humble beginning half a century ago, Tibetan Children's Village has today become a thriving, integrated educational community for destitute Tibetan children in exile, as well as for hundreds of those escaping from Tibet. An interesting experience, this brings you close to local life in the region.

The Tibetan Institute for Performing Arts (TIPA): TIPA is located a short walk from the center of town. Another impressive complex built around an open courtyard, the Institute trains Tibetans (and occasionally foreigners) in the traditional Tibetan forms of opera, theatre and dance. Performances are held in the courtyard and an opera festival takes place here each spring.

GOA

Gorgeous Goa is one of the most idyllic beach holiday destinations in India. Breathtakingly beautiful blue beaches, sensuous silvery sands, fabulous flora and fauna, rich cultural heritage, captivating churches, and terrific temples, Goa has it all!

Tourist Attractions of Goa

Aguada Fort: Fort of Aguada is situated in north Goa, 18 km from Panaji. The Fort of Aguada was built by the Portuguese to control enemy entry into River Mandovi and to protect old Goa from attacks. The fortification skirts the seashore. At the center of the fort is a circular lighthouse tower which was built in 1864. The Fort presently houses the central jail of Goa.

Basilica of Bom Jesus: The church of Bom Jesus, "Good" or "Infant" Jesus, is known principally for the tomb of St. Francis Xavier. In 1946, it became the first church of India to be elevated to the status of Minor Basilica. The basilica, where the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier are kept, is the best specimen of baroque architecture in India. St. Francis's body was brought to Goa almost 150 years after his death.

Terekhol (Tiracol) Fort: Situated on the northern most tip of Goa on a hillock overlooking the Arabian sea, Tiracol Fort was an ideal vantage point for soldiers who had to keep a look-out for enemy warships. In its courtyard is the century old church of St. Anthony. If the urge to escape to the ends of the earth strikes you, visit Fort Tiracol. Once an armed fortress that belonged to the Portuguese, Fort Tiracol is now content to spend the rest of its days on a cliff enjoying the kaleidoscopic view of the Arabian Sea and the spectacular estuary of the Tiracol River - the fort is now converted into a tourist resort.

Ancestral Goa: Located at Laoulim, 10-km from Margao, ancestral Goa is a mock up village dating back a century. Built in a verdant hillside, a guided trek takes one down the Goan memory lane. This sprawling village has a natural spring, a fisherman's hut, marketplace, mansion of 'Dona Maria' and traditional Goan artisans at work. One can stop by the 'Traverena', the country liquor shop, warm up with a peg of Goan Feni distilled at the 'Bhatti' and play an ancient game of 'tabla'.

Temples Of Goa: Among the temples of Goa, the Saraswati temples hold much significance amongst the local people. Besides, the Shanta Durga temple, the Ganapati temple, the Maha lakshmi temple, the Shri Nagesh Maharudra temple are also important places of visit.

Menezes Braganza Institute: The Menezes Braganza Institute, formerly known as the Institute Vasco da Gama was built to impart knowledge in arts and sciences. It is an excellent example of 19th century Portuguese civic architecture. The present name of the institute derives from philanthropist Luis de Menezes Braganza. Today it is Goa’s central library with a good collection of rare books. The Institute also houses an art gallery with works by late 19th and early 20th century European artists. The exhibits are now housed in the State Museum.

JAIPUR

Jaipur - land of the Rajputs, is an exuberance of colour, dance and traditional arts and crafts. Known, as the 'Pink City', Jaipur is home to a wonderful selection of ancient forts and palaces. One of India's most well planned cities, Jaipur is built in 9 rectangular sectors symbolising 9 divisions of the universe, as per Indian cosmology!

Tourist Attractions of Goa

The City Palace: The City Palace is a wonderful blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. The walls, ceilings and floors of the palace are richly carved and decorated. A huge building, City Palace occupies total one seventh of Jaipur's area. The palace also houses a museum having an impressive collection of costumes and armoury belonging to both Mughals and Rajputs.

Jal Mahal: Encircled by the clear blue water Man Sagar lake, Jal Mahal is one of the most fascinating buildings of Jaipur. The palace was built by Sawai Pratap Singh for royal duck shooting parties. It is interesting to note that many varieties of migratory birds still come to the lake in the winter season. The palace is built in red sandstone.

Jaigarh Fort: Perched on top of a cliff on the outskirts of Jaipur city, Jaigarh Fort is regarded as one of the best examples of medieval period military structures. The main attraction of this rugged military structure is Jai-Ban, believed to be the largest cannon on wheels in the world. The fort also houses a museum where a large collection of weapons and cannons used by the Rajputs have been kept for display.

Amber Fort: Built in red sandstone and marble, Amber Fort is one of the most attractive forts of Rajasthan. Essentially a military structure, an element of luxury is also associated with the fort. The construction of this fort was initiated by Raja Man Singh in the 17th century but could only be finished by Sawai Jai Singh in the eighteenth century. Influences of Hindu and Mughal forms can be seen in the architecture of this fort.

Laxmi Narayan Temple: More popularly known as the Birla temple, this temple was constructed by the Birla family. Located on top of a hill surrounded by lush green gardens, the exteriors and interiors of this white marble temple has many exquisite carvings showing various mythological themes and images of saints.

Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds): built in the 18th century, this palace with its innumerable windows and screened balconies was especially built for the royal women to view the city and processions. Hawa Mahal is famously known as a palace, but it is actually a royal curtain or a see through wall, from where women of royalty could see the outside world, without being noticed.

Jantar Mantar: An astronomical observatory with masonry instruments, Jantar Mantar is a collection of salmon-coloured instruments including a sundial and others that plot the course of planets and determine the time based on the direction of the sun. This observatory in Jaipur is more popular than its counterpart in New Delhi.

Nahargarh Fort: Situated atop the Aravalis, Nahargarh Fort offers a spectacular view of the city of Jaipur. ‘Nahargarh’ means ‘the Abode of Tigers’, so this fort is also known as the Tiger Fort. The fort was constructed in the 18th century with additions being made by successive rulers till the 19th century. The geometrically designed Nahargarh Fort forms a remarkable backdrop of Jaipur and offers glittering views of the city.

JAISALMER

Jaisalmer, in the heart of the desert is also known as ‘the golden city’. Covered with sand dunes, Jaisalmer was founded way back in the 12th century. During the medieval period, Jaisalmer had emerged as a major trade route centre between India and the western countries.

Highlights of Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer Fort: The fort of Jaisalmer is the second oldest fort of Rajasthan. The fort is located on Trikuta Hills and has a 250 feet high pedestal. There are five beautiful palaces inside the fort- Sarvottam Vilas, Akhai Vilas, Gaj Mahal, Rang Mahal and Moti Mahal. Very strong but beautiful looking latticework screens have been installed to protect the interiors from the fierce heat and desert winds. Rang Mahal, the most popular of the palaces, features some exquisite mural paintings.

Jain Temple: Three exquisitely sculptured Jain temples dedicated to Rishabhdevji, Sambhavanathji and Ashthapadi are another highlight of Jaisalmer. The ornamentation of the temples has been done in the style of the Dilwara temple at Mt. Abu and looks fabulous. There is also an emerald icon of Mahavira inside the temple premises.

The Havelis of Jaisalmer: The Havelis of Jaisalmer are examples of the architectural brilliance of the Rajputs. Some of the popular Havelis are Patwon-Ki-Haveli, Salim Sing ki-Haveli and Nathmalji-ki-Haveli. The elaborate designs on the walls and luxurious interiors give a splendid look to the Havelis.

Desert Culture Centre and Museum: The Desert Culture Centre and Museum has an impressive collection of traditional items of the state. These include old coins, different kinds of textiles and traditional Rajasthani instruments. Some fossils found in the desert have also been kept for display. A visit to the museum would give you a good idea of the history and culture of Rajasthan.

JODHPUR

Located near the Thar desert, Jodhpur, is the second largest city of Rajasthan. Jodhpur was established by Rajput chief Rao Jodha in the 15th century. Like Jaipur, Jodhpur is also surrounded by a long wall consisting of 8 doors and 100 towers all around the wall. Owing to its architecture, characterised by pale blue shade, Jodhpur is also known as the ‘blue hued’ city of India.

Tourist Attractions of Jodhpur

Mehrangarh Fort: The fort of Mehrangarh is regarded as one of the most impressive and formidable structures in Rajasthan. The fort stretches to a length of 5 kms and is located on a 125 metre high elevated land. The fort was built in such a way that it becomes almost impossible for enemies to intrude it.

Jaswant Thada: Jaswant Thada houses the cenotaphs of many Rajput royals. It was built in white marble in the year 1899 A.D. in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. There are portraits of various Jodhpur rulers within the main cenotaph.

Umaid Bhawan Palace: The Umaid Bhawan Palace is an example of the early modern period architecture. A relatively new building, the magnificent Umaid Bhawan was built in early 20th century. Taking 16 years for completion, the purpose of building Umaid Bhawan Palace was to give employment to the famine struck population of Jodhpur. The descendants of some former royals still stay at the palace. A section of the palace has been converted into hotel and museum.

KHAJURAHO

A UNESCO world heritage site in central India, Khajuraho is famous for its erotic sculptured temples. There are a complex of famed Hindu and Jain temples in Khajuraho built during the 9th and 10th century A.D under the patronage of Chandela rulers. The Chandelas were known for their love of art and luxury and gifted to the world some of the best sculpted images. Khajuraho sculptures and carvings are highly erotic and sensual attempting to depict in pure form a whole range of human emotions and relationships.

Tourist Attractions of Khajuraho

Khajuraho Temples: The temples of Khajuraho are divided into three categories-Western Group Temples, Eastern Group Temples and Southern Group Temples. The western temples are the largest, precise and centrally located. The eastern temples comprise of five separated sub-groups in and around the present village of Khajuraho. The southern temples are located at some distance and are least visited by tourists.

KOCHI

Kochi (Cochin) is the commercial capital and the most cosmopolitan city of Kerala. Kochi, also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, has one of the finest natural harbours in the world and an important spice trading centre. Starting from the Dutch, Portuguese and the British, Kochi was the site of the first European colonial settlements in India.

Highlights of Kochi

Mattancherry Palace: The Dutch Palace at Mattancherry is a favourite with tourists at Kochi. The palace exhibits beautiful mural paintings that depict scenes from Ramayana. The palace was built by the Portuguese and gifted to the Raja of Cochin, Vira Keralavarma. Later, some contributions were made to the palace by Dutch invaders.

Fort Kochi: Fort Kochi is inhabited by Anglo-Indian community, presenting a very different and unique aura and ambience to the region. The culture is quite unique representing the Eurasian culture. Dwelling places built by the British traders and colleges established by the Dutch are worth observing here.

St. Francis Church: St. Francis Church located in Fort Kochi region, was built by the Portuguese in the year 1503 A.D. Initially built in timber, this church was later changed into a stone structure. It is said that Portuguese explorer Vasco-da-Gama was originally buried here and his remains were later taken to Lisbon.

Santa Cruz Basilica: Built by the Portuguese, the Santa Cruz Basilica is known for its Gothic exterior with soaring spires. Apart from imposing facade, the interiors are equally impressive. The stained glass and life-like columns looking over the confession boxes add to the beauty of the church.

Jewish Synagogue: Among all the common wealth countries of the world, the Jewish Synagogue, Kochi is the oldest existing synagogue. The prosperous Jewish trading community built it in 1568 AD. The synagogue is one of the exemplary sightseeing spots in Kerala. Being centrally located in Mattancherry, the synagogue is easily accessible.

KOLKATA

Once the greatest colonial city in the Orient, Calcutta (now ‘Kolkata’), today ranks among the four major metropolis of India along with Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai. It originated largely due to the expansionist ambitions of the European powers, especially the British Raj. Little wonder, Kolkata has some of the finest British edifices built in a variety of styles.

Tourist Attractions of Kolkata

Victoria Memorial: Built to commemorate Queen Victoria's 1901 diamond jubilee, the structure of Victoria Memorial was finally finished nearly 20 years after her death. A vast, beautifully proportioned confection of white marble domes set in attractive, well-tended parkland, this is the most enduring of remains of the British Raj in India. The memorial is most photogenic at sunset across reflecting ponds from the northeastern side. The structure, which is now floodlit at night, is a fascinating site of sparkling white marble. It has been now converted in a museum that houses the most impressive collection of memorabilia's from the days of Raj.

Indian Museum: Built in 1874, this is the oldest museum in India, housing a rare collection of archeological artifacts. The museum fills a glorious colonnaded palace with aging glass-and-hardwood display cabinets that are almost attractions in themselves. The entrance to the museum houses an original Lion Capitol, the national symbol of India.

Eden Garden: Located in the northwest corner of the city, this is a small and pleasantly laid-out garden. The place also houses the renowned cricket ground by the same name.

Howrah Bridge: Kolkata's 700m-long architectural icon, is a vibrating abstraction of steel cantilevers, traffic fumes and sweat. Although over 60 years old it probably remains the world's busiest bridge catering to around 100,000 vehicles and innumerable pedestrians.

Dakshineshwar Kali Mandir: Kalighat's Kali Temple is Kolkata's holiest spot. The temple is dedicated to Kali, goddess of destruction. The current structure, painted silver-grey with rainbow highlights, dates from 1809. Of course the site is many, many centuries older and possibly the source of Kolkata's name.

Birla Planetarium: Loosely styled along the lines of Buddhist stupa at Sarnath, the Birla Planetarium is one of the worlds largest and looks impressive when floodlit. Its outer circle forms a small but well-presented, tomb-like gallery featuring astronomer busts and planetary pictures.

Belur Math: The headquarters of Ramakrishna Mission, Belur Math is situated in the north of the city. The place was founded in 1899 and houses a structure that was designed to be a church, temple, and mosque all in one. That's perfectly in keeping with the message of 19th century sage Ramakrishna Paramahamsa who preached the unity of all religions

The Marble Palace: This palace is built of Italian marble, stands amidst a lawn which has sculptures of Jesus Christ, Virgin Mary, other Hindu gods, Lord Buddha and Christopher Columbus. The rooms have numerous statues, paintings and oriental vases. Chandeliers dangle from its ceilings. The lamps on the stair cases bear testimony to creativity

KOVALAM

On the Malabar coast along Kerala’s shore line is a small village, called Kovalam, meaning ‘a grove of coconut trees’. Kovalam is home to some of the most serene and beautiful beaches in India. A sheltered natural bay with cool soothing palms and gentle waves makes Kovalam a perfect beach paradise. Apart from its fantastic beaches, other places of interest include an Art Museum, Observatory and a Science and Technology Museum.

Tourist Attractions of Kovalam

Ancient Indian wisdom has created the practical science of Yoga which provides mental peace, radiant health and spiritual fulfilment to soothe the stress of modern life. Kovalam is home to a large number of Ayurveda ashrams, clinics, resorts, centres and spas.

KOMARAKOM

Kumarakom slumbers on the banks of the famous Vembanad Lake. The Vembanad Lake with its majestic canals, streams, lagoons and distributaries along its banks weave an intricate and beautiful network of Kerala’s famous backwaters. The best way to experience the real Kerala is aboard a backwater cruise in Kumarakom.

Tourist Attractions of Kovalam

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: The bird sanctuary on the banks of Vembanad Lake is spread over 100 acres and is home to thousands of resident and migratory birds. Some commonly found species include egret, darter, waterfowl, heron, bittern, kites, marsh harries, kingfishers, woodpeckers and wild ducks.

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls: The waterfalls are located some 18 kms from the Kottayam town and within close proximity of Kumarakom. This is a beautiful waterfall, where water cascades down the mountains and falls to about 100 ft.

Vembanad Lake: Vembanad is a beautiful lake that runs through the town of Kumarakom into small rivers and canals. The lake is a great picnic spot and activities here include boating and angling.

Backwaters Cruise: The best way to explore Kumarakom and the village life on the banks of the backwaters, is through a backwater cruise. Every year thousands of tourists embark on house boat tours and experience the real Kerala. With on board chef cooking seafood specialities from Kerala, you will love the experience of the serene backwaters.

MANDAWA

Mandawa, in the heart of Shekhawati region, is a small town abound with Havelis and temples. The compact and busy little market town of Mandawa was settled in the 18th century, and was fortified by dominant merchant families. Today, Mandawa has some of the finest painted havelis in the region, and is a perfect place for wandering at random. Some of the famous havelis of Mandawa are the Chokhanis, the Goenkas and the Sarafas.

MUMBAI

Mumbai is the city of dreams. The financial capital of India, it is also the primary center for the entertainment industry. A population that comes from diverse ethnic backgrounds and speaks over a dozen languages, adds colour, flavour and vibrance to cultural exuberance of Mumbai.

Tourist Attractions of Mumbai

Gateway of India: Gateway of India is the principal landmark of Mumbai and thronged by thousands of visitors everyday. A conventional Arch of Triumph, Gateway of India was conceived after the visit of King George V to India in 1911 and officially opened in the year 1924. Architecturally its designs have been derived from the 16th century Muslim styles of Gujarat. Built in yellow basalt, the gateway stands on the Apollo Bunder, and is Mumbai’s most famous landmark.

Marine Drive: Officially called Netaji Subhash Road, Marine Drive was built on land reclaimed in 1920. Marine Drive runs along the shoreline of the bay, starting at Nariman Point, passing Chowpatty Beach and runs up to Malabar Hill. One of Mumbai's most famous attraction, Marine Drive is backed with the high rising buildings and provides fascinating views of the city’s skyline.

Mahalaxmi Temple: The oldest temple in Mumbai, the Mahalaxmi temple is dedicated to the goddess of wealth. Mahalaxmi temple houses the images of goddess and her two sisters, which are said to have been found in the sea.

Prince of Wales Museum: Prince of Wales Museum is an impressive colonial building surrounded by a huge garden. The museum was built in 1905 to commemorate King George V's first visit to India. The first part of this museum was opened in the year 1914. Prince of Wales Museum houses archaeological findings dating back to 2,000 BC from the Indus Valley Civilisation and has a fine collection of Indian art and artefacts from across the country.

Mani Bhawan: Mani Bhawan is the building where Mahatma Gandhi lived between 1917 and 1934 and today has been converted into a museum. Located near the August Kranti Maidan, the museum secures a large collection of Mahatma Gandhi's books, photographs and personal belongings.

Elephanta Caves: A short ferry ride from Mumbai harbour takes you to the Elephanta Island, home to 7th century rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Elephanta caves are located two-third of the way up two hillocks, at the centre of the island. Designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the main central cave houses the Maheshamurti, a three-headed sculpture of Shiva resplendent in all his forms namely the creator, preserver and destroyer. The caves also feature delicately-carved panels depicting the life of Lord Shiva.

MYSORE

Mysore, not far from Bangalore, is a famous South Indian city, which is popular for its exotic sandalwood and rich skills. Small, easygoing and a crafts-crazy city, with friendly people Mysore features beautiful gardens, tree lined boulevards, art galleries and a fascinating palace.

Tourist Attractions of Mysore

Mysore Palace: Once the seat of the Maharaja's of Mysore, the Mysore Palace now dominates the skyline of Mysore city. Built in Indo-Saracenic style, the palace has strong Afghani influence - an extravaganza of stained glass, mirrors, gilt and loud colours. The Palace features beautifully carved wooden doors, mosaic floors and interesting paintings depicting life in Mysore during the Edwardian Raj.

Chamundi Hill: Chamundi Hill lies 1050 mts above sea level, within a short drive from Mysore city. You can spend a very pleasant half day, taking a walk up the 1000 steps to the top of the hill where the temple of Sri Chamundeswari stands. From the temple, you get superb views of Mysore city and the surrounding countryside. The temple also houses the statue of Nandi (Shiva's bull), carved out of solid rock.

St Philomena's Cathedral: One of the largest churches in India, St Philomena's Cathedral is built in neo-Gothic style. It is an interesting place to visit in Mysore and there is a beautiful image of Philomena in an underground chamber.

Sri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery: Housed in the Jaganmohan Palace, the art gallery displays fascinating paintings, handicrafts, historical objects of interest and rare musical instruments.

Srirangapatnam: Located just 14 km north-east of Mysore, on the Bangalore Highway, this island fortress was once the capital of the warrior kings Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. Across the other side of the road from the fort stands the Daria Daulat Bagh, the summer palace of Tipu Sultan. Built in 1784, Daria Daulat Bagh is now converted into a museum and narrates stories of the sultan losing battle against the British. Daria Daulat Bagh has ornate and beautiful frescoes. Tipu's Fort at Srirangapatnam houses a mosque and the Ranganathswamy Temple.

OOTY

Ooty, also called the Queen of Nilgiris, is the most popular hill resort in south India, located amidst Nilgiri mountain ranges. At a height of 2,268 meters, Ooty is known for its salubrious climate and scenic beauty.

Rolling Meadows, gardens and lakes vaguely reminiscent of England, characterize Ooty. The place still retains the aura of the British Raj with its cottages and stone churches. Ooty is also famous for its beautiful Botanical gardens, with 2,000 species of plant. A fossil of a tree trunk is a unique exhibit here and is believed to be 20 million years old. There is also an artificial lake where facilities for boating are available. Pony rides, mini train rides, and quiet walks amidst the forest tracks are enjoyed by tourists. The highest peak in the Nilgiri range is Doddabetta, 2.623 mts in height and 10 km from the main town.

SHIMLA

The hillside town of Shimla is popular as the erstwhile British Summer Capital of India. With strong architectural impressions from the British Raj, today Shimla is one the most popular mountain destination for locals and tourists alike.

Rolling Meadows, gardens and lakes vaguely reminiscent of England, characterize Ooty. The place still retains the aura of the British Raj with its cottages and stone churches. Ooty is also famous for its beautiful Botanical gardens, with 2,000 species of plant. A fossil of a tree trunk is a unique exhibit here and is believed to be 20 million years old. There is also an artificial lake where facilities for boating are available. Pony rides, mini train rides, and quiet walks amidst the forest tracks are enjoyed by tourists. The highest peak in the Nilgiri range is Doddabetta, 2.623 mts in height and 10 km from the main town.

Tourist Attractions of Shimla

Chadwick Falls: Tourists visiting Shimla like to visit the Chadwick Falls - 67 meter waterfall cascading into a deep gorge. Best views of the falls are available after monsoons when it is full of water. The falls are surrounded by thick forest which further adds to the beauty of the place.

Taradevi Temple: The temple of Taradevi set in a picturesque location is widely visited by tourists. The deity worshipped here is Tara Devi, a Hindu version of the Tibetan Goddess Drolma.

Himachal State Museum: At a distance of 3 kms from the city centre, the Himachal State Museum is located in a beautiful building that is regarded as a great piece of colonial architecture in Shimla. The museum has a wide collection of statues, miniatures, coins, photos and other items from around Himachal Pradesh. A visit to the museum gives a good idea of the history and culture of Himachal Pradesh.

Jakhoo Hills: Jakhoo hills offer a great panoramic view of Shimla town. The Jakhoo peak is the highest in Shimla. There is also an attractive small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman (the Hindu monkey god) here.

The Mall: The mall is the main commercial centre of Shimla. The place is full of little shops and restaurants. Gaiety Theatre, the main centre in Shimla for cultural activities is also located here. The theatre is a reproduction of an old British theatre. Excellent views of the nearby mountain ranges are also available from the Mall. At a point called the 'Scandal Point' in the mall area, a statue of nationalist leader Lala Lajpat Rai has also been erected.

Kufri: Kufri is a beautiful hill resort within close proximity to Shimla. Kufri is known for its scenic beauty. Located at an altitude of 2510 metres, Kufri is a popular destination for hiking. Tourists come in large numbers to the place in winters to participate in a winter sports festival held here

UDAIPUR

If the colours pink and blue are common to the landscapes of Jaipur and Jodhpur, Udaipur may very well be regarded as a vision in white for its shining marble palaces and buildings. Popularly known as the lake city of India, Udaipur is also famous as one of India’s most romantic cities. The beautiful city was established by Maharana Udai Singh after an astrologer advised the warrior to shift his capital to the banks of Lake Pichola.

Tourist Attractions of Udaipur

The City Palace: The largest palace of Rajasthan, with a fine combination of marble and granite, the City Palace is a jewel in Udaipur's crown. The palace overlooking Lake Pichola is renowned for exceptional crafting of its interiors. The mammoth palace complex houses three mahals – Baari Mahal, Dilkush Mahal and Moti Mahal. Apart from the mahals, there is also a temple dedicated to Dhuni Mata and a museum displaying the collections of Rana Pratap. The floor mosaics giving shape to peacock images are most impressive.

The Lake Palace: From a distance, the view of the Lake Palace is mesmerizing. Built entirely with marble, the architecture of the palace is such that it gives the impression of the palace floating on Lake Pichola. Now converted into a luxury hotel, this magnificent palace can only be reached by boat.

Jagdish Temple: Located close to the City Palace, Jagdish Temple has some fine sculpted images and ornamented interiors. Near the temple complex is Sahelion-ki-Bari or the Garden of Maidens. The garden has four pools and meticulously carved kiosks in marble.

Crystal Gallery: Located at Fateh Prakash Palace, the Crystal Gallery features an exquisite collection of crystals ordered from F & C Osler England by erstwhile Maharana Sajjan Singh. The gallery was opened to public in 1994. The gallery houses masterpieces in crystal including tables, sofa sets, dressers, fountains, beds, washing bowls, decanters, perfume bottles and even a richly ornamented crystal carpet.

Jag Mandir: The temple of Lord Jagdish, this is where Maharana Jagat Singh I (1628-1652) gave shelter to Prince Khurram when he was about to attack his father Emperor Jehangir. It is believed that Shah Jahan was so mesmerized with the architecture of this temple, that this became his inspiration to build the magnificent Taj Mahal in Agra

VARANASI

Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India (also known as Kashi and Benaras) is regarded as an eternal holy city. Varanasi is the oldest living city in the world and has been a popular centre for learning for centuries together. Even today, people come to learn Sanskrit, the mother of all languages, and yoga in Varanasi.

Tourist Attractions of Varanasi

Ghats of Varanasi: The ghats of Varanasi are the prime attractions of this holy pilgrimage city. Regarded as sacred by Hindus, every ghat of Varanasi has a history attached to it. Some of these sacred ghats also find mention in ancient Indian scriptures. The most prominent is the Dasaswamedh ghat. Stretching up to a distance of 4 kms, many religious rituals are held at the ghats on a regular basis. The ghats of Varanasi are best viewed at dawn, when devotees perform various kinds of rituals and earthen lamps are immersed in the waters.

Durga Temple: The Durga temple of Varanasi is also held in high reverence by Hindus. In this temple, Goddess Durga is worshipped as an embodiment of shakti or female power, clad in red and riding a tiger. The deity is shown in an angry posture armed with a sword. The earlier ritual of animal sacrifice in the temple has now been discontinued.

Bharat Mata Temple: The Bharat Mata Temple is a relatively new building in this ancient city. Inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936, the temple houses a perfect relief map of India carved out of marble. The most unique feature of this temple is that instead of worshipping any religious deity, the temple is dedicated to motherland India.

Bharat Kala Bhawan: Bharat Kala Bhawan is famous for its impressive collection of miniature paintings. The wide collection includes Rajasthani paintings, pahari paintings, Nepalese & Tibetan Thankas, and also paintings of many contemporary artists. The museum has also preserved many ancient scriptures and offers a nice break from the religious places of Varanasi.

Sarnath: One of major Buddhist pilgrimage centres, Sarnath is 10 kms from Varanasi. Sarnath is the place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after gaining enlightenment. Later, Emperor Ashoka erected several magnificent stupas like Dharmarajika Stupa and Dhamekh Stupa and other impressive buildings. Sarnath also houses the Ashoka Pillar, dating back to the 3rd century, which bears the Ashokan symbol of four back-to-back lions, which is today the national emblem of India.