If you think that Rajasthan is all about palaces and royalty, think again. Rajasthan is also a land of unlimited adventure. Apart from experiencing the overwhelming royalty of its palaces and forts, do try out some adventure sports. The diverse topography of this state makes it a perfect destination where several adventure sports can be enjoyed. It is a land where raja-maharajas were skilled in hunting, horse riding, wildlife safari and polo and the common people show their talent in cart and camel races. Adventure sports in Rajasthan are among its major attractions.
You can indulge in a variety of adventure sports such as rock climbing, trekking, parasailing, hot air ballooning, golf, polo, hang gliding and angling.
Rajasthan is endowed with rich wildlife. It is a home to two famous wildlife destinations of India namely Ranthambhore National park and Keoladeo National Park. Wildlife enthusiasts from far and wide come to experience the wilderness of these wildlife destinations of Rajasthan. The rich wildlife species of Keoladeo National park has earned it the title World Heritage Site. This park is known for its wide variety of colorful birds. Cycling is the best way to explore this park. Whereas Ranthambhore National park is known for its tigers and several other wildlife species. Ranthambore fort is another attraction inside the park. Go on a Jeep safari for wildlife sighting in the park.
Camping can be greatly enjoyed on the sand dunes of Rajasthan. There are several wonderful camping destinations in the state. The most famous ones are Manvar, Sam near Jaisalmer, Samode Bagh near Jaipur, Dausa, Kotputli, Ranthambore and Pushkar fair. You can enjoy camel and Jeep safaris in almost all the cities of the state.
For enjoying ballooning visit Pushkar, Nagaur and Beneshwar. For experiencing the joy of trekking travel to Udaipur, Mount Abu, Amber, Kumbalgarh, Chittaur and Alwar. The Aravali mountain range in the state offers great opportunities for rock climbing. The lakes of Udaipur and Alwar are the places to go for boating. Jaipur is an amazing place for elephant ride. Kite flying is another interesting activity here. The Kite Festival of Jodhpur is famous across the country.
Travel to Rajasthan and enjoy a variety of adventure sports. You will surely go back home with golden memories which will remain etched in your heart for long. There is so much to experience and enjoy in this royal state of raja-maharajas.
Rajasthan family tour can be to a local spot or it could be to an international destination depending on where you find most appropriate to treat your family at. Tours offer very good bonding moments to families, especially considering how hectic modern living can be. However, the tours are also more demanding compared to others in terms of planning because you need to involve every member including the children. When you take the necessary steps planning for the tour, you are definitely going to share a great time together.
1. The interests of the family
Remember that you will be taking everyone, including your children for the tour and you therefore want to consider what their perfect tour entails. You might all have different preferences for the tour, but when you include everyone’s opinion you will be able to put together a tour that largely covers all interests. For instance, if there are some members who prefer having a beach experience included and others preferring to visit an amusement park, you can have a tour that covers these and others. When you know what interests you have as a family, you will be able to select a destination that offers everything that you prefer.
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2. Define the tour budget
There is always a great importance of handling your finances with care when travelling; planning a family tour should not be any different. Whatever the length of the tour is going to be, make sure that you think about food, transportation, entertainment and accommodation. Be sure to allocate reasonable amounts for every area, depending on how large your family is. The budget should be able to cover all needs of every member of the family.
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3. Plan out your travel dates
This is very important, especially if you have schooling children. You might not want to disrupt their school terms and hence the need to plan the tour during a time when they are on school break. If you must take them in the middle of the term, then you should ensure that you talk to the relevant teachers. Still on dates, if you are going to travel to a destination away from home, remember that there are seasons and they can affect the tour experience you get. Try as much as possible to choose the right travel time depending on the destination so you plan a tour when the destination has plenty to offer you andyour family.
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4. Get travel documents in order
Passports are necessities when travelling out of the country for your tour. Think about your children and how many of them need passports and follow the procedures to get them. Tickets are the other documents you need to think about when traveling especially with children. Most airlines offer free flight to children of certain ages, but you might be required to pay individual tickets for bigger children. A good idea would be to look for money saving family travel packages that you can take advantage of.
Planning a Family tours can be lots of fun. Get Family ToursPackages that make it easy for you to get the best flight, accommodation and transportation, especially for tours that take longer than a day.
If you are planning to enjoy the same luxury and hospitality that the erstwhile Maharajas of Rajasthan used to experience, then you must opt for a stay in Rajasthan heritage hotels. You can experience the royal lifestyle of the kings and the queens during your vacation in the royal state of Rajasthan. Marvel at the regal splendor, magnificent structure, world-class facilities, sumptuous meals, and enchanting interiors while enjoying the impeccable hospitality of turban-wearing staff. These heritage hotels were originally the palaces of the kings, nobles and ministers your tour might be incomplete, if you do not opt for a stay in a heritage property. Here is a list of top 10 best Place to stay in Rajasthan.
Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
Once known as the “pleasure palace” for Maharana Jagat Singh II, this beautiful heritage hotel on Lake Pichola, has played home to even Bond girl Octupussy. Touted as one of the most romantic hotels in the world, the Taj Lake Palace is a heavenly abode for lovers. The floating white marvel makes a stunning vision under a moonlit sky. With the tasteful Mewar decor blended with the hard-to-beat hospitality, this hotel is luxury at its best.
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Samode Palace, Jaipur
In the heart of the city, yet hidden from the world, is a heritage hotel that displays a combination of Indian and Mughal artwork. Known for its Indo-Saracean architecture, the 475 year old Samode Palace is indeed an illustration of opulence. The intricate murals on the walls, adorned by beautiful mirror work, will take you back in time to another era. With each room, uniquely designed, this heritage hotel promises you the experience of nothing less than a royal.
Taj Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
The Rambagh Palace has always been all about hospitality. Initially built for the queen’s favourite handmaiden in 1835, Rambagh Palace was later refurbished as a guesthouse and hunting lodge for royal guests of the then monarch, Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II. With each room made specifically for royalty, this hotel lets you indulge in complete luxury. With the option of playing Polo or riding an elephant, you will feel no less than the guests of the king that resided in this very place. A visit to the Polo Bar at Rambagh Palace is a must!
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Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
Spread across a vast area of 26 acres, lies one of the largest private residences in the world, the Umaid Bhawan Palace. Initially known as the Chittar Palace, due to the sandstone used from Chittar, this golden creation displays the Art Deco Style of the 1900s. Designed by British architect Henry Lancaster, the hotel has both Rajput, as well as, Renaissance influences. The hotel has a museum, a marble squash court and a billiards room for recreation. Do experience a tour of Jodhpur city in a vintage car along with a royal butler.
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Jai Mahal Palace Hotel, Jaipur
Jai Mahal Palace, a place where old world royalty comes together with modern luxury. Formerly home to the Prime Minister of the princely state of Jaipur, this heritage hotel is surrounded by 18 acres of lush gardens. And these Mughal Gardens are undoubtedly one of the best Mughal Gardens there are! With the regal decadence blending in with the contemporary elegance, this hotel is hands-down a unique experience.
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Neemrana Fort Palace, Alwar
Showcasing the proud lineage of Prithviraj Chauhan III, this 15th century heritage hotel is one of the unique hotels in the state. Close to Delhi, this hotel invites in tourists from the national capital too. Along with the beauty of the hanging gardens, swimming pools and Ayurvedic Spa, the Neemrana Fort-Palace, provides you the exhilerating experience of the country’s first zip-line. Could it get more fun than this!
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Khimsar Fort, Khimsar
History comes alive in this 16th century monument. Lying at the edge of the Thar Desert, the majestic Khimsar Fort has seen a past of battles and bravery. Now, millenia away from the dark yet valiant past, this heritage hotel is indeed an abode for lavishness. Awarded as the ‘National Grand Heritage Award For Excellence’ by the Department of Tourism, Government of India, this hotel definitely lives up to this honour conferred to them.
Narain Niwas Palace Hotel, Jaipur
A uo;garden house” built in 1928 for Thakur Amar Singh, grandson of the founder of Kanota family, the Narain Niwas is an epitome of grandeur. The designing of the structure is Anglo-Indian, with Victorian artwork blending in with Rajput frescos. Located centrally in the Pink City, this place is perfect to experience some excellent Rajput hospitality.
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Shiv Niwas Palace, Udaipur
Built in early 20th century by Maharana Fateh Singh, this grand heritage hotel was solely meant for royal guests and dignitaries. Open to all now, the guests are treated no lesser than the earlier royal ones. Combined with modern day luxury, this lakeside heritage hotel is a purely decadent experience for the senses.
Bhainsrorgarh Fort, Chittorgarh
The authentic Bhainsrorgarh delicacies will make you want to visit this heritage hotel over and over again. The secret heirloom recipes that have been in the royal family kitchens over ages, will be a treat for your tastebuds. Add to it, the warm hospitality of the in-house royal family, and residing in this heritage hotel will be an experience of a lifetime.
Rajasthan is the kaleidoscope and to experience it to the fullest, you have to come out of your comfort zone. There is adventure waiting on each street and corner of Rajasthan and all you have to do is to look for it whole heartedly. Let me give you a head start, so you can decide well what your choices for activities in Rajasthan are.
Choki Dhani Ethnic Resort:
Experience Authentic Rajasthani Hospitality– Hospitable… treat for gastronomists… heaven for luxury seekers… YES that’s Chokhi Dhani for you! If you are in Jaipur and you haven’t visited Chokhi Dhani then you are at a loss. This is one place that gives you the real idea of hospitality and culture in Rajasthan. Staying here or merely eating here is up to your budget, rest visiting here is a must! Serving the Rajasthani cuisine with incredibly warm heart and putting up the cultural show that will woo you in an instant… you just can’t help but fall in love with this place.
Camel Breeding Farm: Get Up Close to Ship of the Desert- OK, this is one of those offbeat activities in Rajasthan that I believe one must take up. You can visit this special Camel Breeding Farm situated near Bikaner, where research on camels takes place. This place is open for visitors between 10 AM to 5 PM everyday and one can enjoy camel ride and ice cream made of camel’s milk here. It is one of its kinds of experience and I recommend that you must go for it!
Dune Bashing:
Let the Adrenaline Take Over- Aah! Just what you need in the great Thar Desert! Dune Bashing has become extremely popular in Rajasthan, especially in Jaisalmer. A revived form of adventure, where you get to seat yourself on a jeep and loiter through the rugged desert in order to destroy the sand dunes, it is indeed adventure at its best!
Gypsy Snake Dance: Get Jiggy with the Kalbeliyan Tribe- You are simply going to LOVE it! Visit Jodhpur and you shall come across this hypnotizing performance by the nomadic tribe of Rajasthan called Kalbeliya Tribe. Watch the brave Kalbeliya men who defang the snakes and watch the lovely Kalbeliya women dance to the tune of flute. Their rhythmically wriggling slender waists can compete to any of those international belly dancers… At Jodhpur you are certainly up for some memorable time!
Vintage Car Rally:
Watch the Old Beauties Taking the Ramp Again- Just when you think that you have seen enough in Jaipur, you are again stung with a surprise. You shall be feeling enthralled if you have visited Rajasthan in January and February. The serpentine streets are taken over by the roars of Vintage cars at the Vintage Car Rally that is held annually about the same time. The royal march of cars will leave you awe-inspired for sure!
Abhaneri Step Well:
Exalt the Marvel of Imperial Architecture: Similar to Rani ki Vav (Now UNESCO World Heritage Site in India), the Abhaneri Step Well or the Chand Baori in Dausa district is definitely a places to see. An ancient structure created in the 8th or 9th century to harvest rain water, it is something you must see in Rajasthan. You shall be impressed with the colossal size and architecture of this step well.
Royal Elephant Polo:
An Experience of the Lifetime- Elephant rides are common in Rajasthan as it is a royal house of India BUT how about Royal Elephant Polo? Well, you can’t participate in the game for that matter but of course you can watch a lively game of Elephant Polo in Jaipur. An experience of its kind, you are promised a cheerful event!
Speed Boating:
An Adventure Ride that You Shall Cherish- It’s time for some fun AND speed boating in the Fateh Sagar Lake- an ideal activity to do in Rajasthan. In the hot climate of Udaipur, you shall love to get splashes of water over you while you ride a high speed boat. An absolute rejuvenation is guaranteed! The boat ride is available all year round between 8.00 AM to 4.30 PM.
Watch Puppet Show:
Long Live the Traditional Entertainment Realm- This is one of those things that you cannot afford to miss out in Rajasthan AND if in case you are at Thar Heritage Museum in Jaisalmer, you must stop by to watch the Puppet Show in the evening. Also, make sure to visit this private museum where the owner takes you on tour of the same himself. You shall be extremely impressed for his love for Rajasthan and his knowledge about the same.
Zip Lining and Flying Fox:
Swing in the Royal Air- Adventure comes handy in Rajasthan and I am sure you will be interested in taking activities like zip lining and flying fox here. There are basically two places that you can enjoy these activities in Rajasthan one at Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur and the other at Neemrana Fort, which is at a small distance from Delhi. Enjoy the splendid top view of the Chokelao garden and Rani Ser Lake while zip lining in Mehrangarh Fort.
Trekking in Mount Abu:
To the Woods We Go!- This trek in Mount Abu is more like a wildlife exploration. Organized by a person called Charles, you can be a part of something unforgettable in Rajasthan. You have the choice here to decide which type of trek you want to opt as there are half day, full day and overnight treks available. Interact with the villagers while you choose for an overnight trek and if you are lucky you might be able to spot many wild species as well…All together a fabulous experience!
Bicycle through Jaipur:
Peddle on the Royal Pavements- One of the most wonderful experiences in Rajasthan or to be precise in Jaipur would be to bicycle around the city. There are many operators who tailor special interest bicycle tour in Rajasthan and trust me if you want to see the real Jaipur, there isn’t a better way than to bicycle your way around.
Spend a Day with Elephants at Dera Amer:
An Elephant’s Day Out! Have you ever thought of giving an elephant a shower or painting its trunk? Well, if you have and you have the desire to do so, Dera Amer is a place for you. Located near Jaipur, Dera Amer is a wonderful place to be at! Besides giving a bath to an elephant and painting its trunk, you can enjoy sumptuous meals here and can also take up trekking to the nearby forest.
Watch a Movie at Raj Mandir Cinema: Get Classy at Cinema- An opulent movie theatre, Raj Mandir is the major attraction in Rajasthan tourism. The meringue-style architecture keeps it class apart and you shall learn why once you get inside it (Although it is quite tough to get a ticket when a new movie is released). However, if you are adamant to see this place, you won’t be disappointed; our suggestion is to book a ticket well in advance!
Visit Bundi: Go Down Royal Memory Lanes- Wander through the serpentine alleys of this quaint-style city. A popular travel destination, Bundi will take you down royal memory lanes. Adding to this exciting visit is the view of the Bundi Palace that seem to protrude from chain of hills here… MAGNIFICENT view it has! 60 step well, lake and markets all add to your cherishable memories of Rajasthan.
Participate in the Kite Festival:
Make a Rainbow of Your Own- Makar Sankranti is the time that you have chosen to go to Rajasthan, then you must visit Jodhpur, where the annual Kite Festival takes place. The view is surreal with thousands of small and big kites soaring up in the sky… it is a rainbow REDEFINED! This festival has gain international popularity as well, so don’t be surprised if you see many foreign tourists competing here.
Visit National Parks:
Listen to the Wildlife Calling- There is always a wildlife calling in Rajasthan! Amongst many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, you are suggested to go to Ranthambore National Park in Sawai Madhopur, Sariska Tiger Reserve in Alwar and Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur. Enjoy jeep safari and spotting tigers like Machhli (Ranthambore) and several species of birds (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary) in these famous National Parks in Rajasthan.
Experience Hot-Air Ballooning:Soar Up in the Sky Keep the Eagle’s Eye! One of the most hair-raising experiences that one could come across is Hot-Air Ballooning. Soaring high in the sky and the view of the vista of the marvelous land of Rajasthan…what more could you wish for? You can try hot-air ballooning at Pushkar, Jaipur and Ranthambore. It is indeed one of the best experiences that you can avail yourself in Rajasthan.
Visit Bhangarh:
Be Ready to be Thrilled- Looking for an extra dose of thrill? Then you must visit Bhangarh Fort in Alwar district of Rajasthan. The fort remains in ruins and is believed to be haunted and is in fact one of the proven most haunted places in India. You can visit this fort during the day time and listen to plethora of eerie stories from locals about how spooky this place is.
Ajmer Sharif: Let There be Showers of Blessings- The holy resting ground of Sufi Saint Moinuddin Chishti, Ajmer Sharif has become one of the major attractions in Rajasthan. Situated in Ajmer, this sacred shrine is known for granting people their wishes. Well, reason may be any, but this is certainly one place that you must see in Rajasthan.
Visit Rural Rajasthan:
Catch the Traditional Rajasthan Live- A tour to rural Rajasthan has become an essential part of state tourism. Considered an offbeat activity to do in Rajasthan, in which will take you on a graceful journey through the alleys of traditional Rajasthan. Visit the Bishnoi and Pali and get the taste of culturally rich state here.
Visit Anokhi Museum of Hand Painting: Marvel at the Rajasthani Skills- A museum well-maintained inside a restore Haveli, Anokhi Museum exhibits the brilliant skill of block printing. This three-storied museum also showcases exemplary collection of fabric and its print. It is one of those offbeat places to visit in Rajasthan that highly enlighten you about this much-skilled state.
North India is an exciting region and has a lot to offer to people with varied tastes. One of the most visited places of the Glimpse of North India Tours is what is quite famously known as the Golden Triangle consisting of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. These cities are the cultural hub of the North India and offer a rare insight into the historical past of the country. Taj Mahal is undoubtedly the most famous of all the monuments in India. Then, there are Agra fort, Jantar Mantar, and Fatehpur Sikri which command your presence to witness their grandeur. In fact, you have the option of experiencing a typical rural life of Rajasthan through a Camel safari, which will surely leave you totally amazed.
There are plenty of hill stations in the region, with the mighty Himalayas as their backdrop that are of Northern India Tours. A few famous of them are Shimla, Kullu, Manali, Almora, Darjeeling and many more. Dharamshala is a picturesque place and currently is the abode of the His Highness the Holy Dalai Lama. There are quite a few buddhist monasteries in this region too. Jammu and Kashmir is one of the most beautiful hill station state of India.
India has a unique convergence of many religions and culture. The colorful and vibrant Varanasi, also known as Banaras, is one of the holiest cities of India and holds a special value for Hindus, Buddhists and Jains. Then there are the Amarnath caves which are considered to be the ultimate test of faith for Hindus for its precarious journey. But that doesn’t deter the true believers.
For any nature lover, North India holidays nothing short of an experience in paradise. Elephant, Tiger, Snow Leopard, Sambar, Chital, Deer, Blackbuck, Sloth Bear, Brown Bear and many other varied animals constitute the exotic wildlife of the region. Both migratory and resident birds, namely Siberian crane, Pheasant, Geese ducks, Grey-headed fishing eagle, Red-thighed Falconer and many more find their homes in these parts of India. There are many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in this part of the country to ensure the safety and prosperity of the treasured wildlife.
If you seek high Adrenalin pumping adventurous trips, then North India is the place to be. Trekking, mountaineering, paragliding, white water rafting and many other adventure sports are organized in this region.
The cuisines of the states of North India are diverse and hence there is a different flavor once you move from one state to the other. That’s variety for you! Each state has its own attire and rituals making them an interesting place to explore.
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Rajasthan, the largest state of India, is one of the most popular tourism destinations in India. The state has great tourism potential and enthralls tourists and vacationers with its awe-inspiring tourism options in the forms of culture, tradition, temples, art & architecture, history, forts & palaces, monument, havelis, wildlife sanctuaries & parks, rippling sand dunes, Thar Desert, etc. There are many fascinating travel destinations in the state which can be visited, explored and enjoyed on your travel and tours in this royal state of India. Let’s have a look at top ten travel destination of Rajasthan tourism.
Jaipur –
The capital of the state, Jaipur is also the largest city in the princely state of Rajasthan.It was founded in 1727, by the Kachwaha Rajput Ruler Sawai Jaisingh II, who was the ruler of Amber. Also known by the nickname ‘Pink City of India’ which is due to the distinctive saffron or pink color of the buildings. The planning of the city was done according to the Vedic Vastu Shastra (Indian architecture). The well planned streets and detailed and artistic architecture make it one of the top preferred tourist locations.
In the 2008 Conde Nast Traveller Readers Choice Survey, Jaipur was ranked #7 of the best places to visit in Asia. Jaipur has lots to offer t
o even the most average tourists. Forts, monuments, temples, Gardens, museums and vast market places of Jaipur bring tourists who come from all around the world to expe
rience the food, fun and frolic at this wonderful town. Jaipur is also home to a huge no. of arts and craft with over 20 unique specializations. To learn more about the tourist places in Jaipur, please visit: places to visit in Jaipur. You might want to plan a separate 3 day itinerary for this city alone.
Also known as the Pink City of India, Jaipur is the state capital city and very popular tourist destination in India. Worth visit attractions in Jaipur city are City Palace, Albert Hall Museum, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Amber Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort and Heritage Hotels.
Also known as the City of Lakes, Udaipur is a city in the state known for its elegant palaces and lovely lakes. It is one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in India. Key attractions of tourist interest in the city are City Palace, Jagdish Temple, Lake Palace, Pichola Lake, Fateh Prakash Palace, Monsoon Palace, Fateh Sagar Lake, Udai Sagar Lake, Eklingji Temple, Nagda Temple, etc.
While in a few texts, it has been termed as the Venice of the East, the City of Udaipur is known by its common moniker, the city of lakes. The city was the capital of the Sisodiya Rajputs of Mewar and is famous for its palaces that exemplify the finesse of Rajputana Style architecture. Udaipur was founded in 1553 by the Sisodiya Rajput Ruler Maharana Udai Singh II. The Mewar Rajputs founded the city to relocate their capital from Chittor to a more secure location. Today, most of the palaces have been converted into hotels, thus attracting a huge no. of tourist crowd to this city.
Jodhpur –
The second largest City of Rajasthan, Jodhpur is also the second most populated city of Rajasthan after Jaipur. The city was founded in 1459 by the Rathore Rajput Ruler, Rao Jodha Singh of Marwar. The city was founded as Marwar’s new capital after the fall of the former capital of Mandore. Jodhpur is also called the Sun City as it enjoys a bright sunny weather all year round. Strategically, it is considered to be the most important city of western Rajasthan as it lies only at a distance of 250 kilometers from the Indo-Pakistan border.
Also, because it lies in the center of Rajasthan, Jodhpur is an important tourist destination as well. Jodhpur has been listed many a times in various tourism magazines and documentaries and has topped the lonely planet’s list of most extraordinary place to stay in 2014. The various hill forts, palaces and the old walled city are just a handful of attractions from the multitude that this wonderful city has to offer.
Also known as the Blue City of India, Jodhpur is the second largest city in the state. It is a wonderful tourist place to be visited on Rajasthan travels and tours with attractions like mammoth Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada Memorial, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Mandore Gardens and many heritage hotels.
Also known as the Golden City of India, Jaisalmer is known for Golden Fort, Jain Temples, Havelis and an exciting trip to rippling sand dunes of vast Thar Desert.
The aptly named “golden city”, which comes from its view during the day, the city of Jaisalmer lies in the heart of the Thar Desert. The city was founded by The Bhati Rajput ruler Maharawal Jaisal Singh in 1156 Ad. The city gets its name from the golden sands of the Thar Desert and the same golden colored sandstone used in the city’s architecture. The city is a famous tourist spot due to its magnificent architecture and the various arts and crafts which are unique to this region. The city thrives on tourism, and can be called a home away from home for a huge no. of tourists from all around the world.
The unique feature about the city of Jaisalmer is its architecture. It was built as a walled city which makes it one of the largest forts in the world. You might want to pack a lot of paperbacks and almost 3-4 days to enjoy the life in this city to its fullest. The fort has numerous eateries that offer Italian, French and local cuisines. Visit during the months of November and December and you will enjoy this castle city to its fullest. To know more about the main tourist spots in Jaisalmer, please visit: places to visit in Jaisalmer.
Bikaner –
Also known as the Camel City, Bikaner is a wonderful tourist place to visit in Rajasthan. It holds a prime position in boosting tourism in Rajasthan with major attractions like Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, Havelis, and sand dunes.
The city of Bikaner was founded in 1488 by the Rathore Rajput Ruler Rao Bika. Rao Bika was the son of the Rathore Ruler Rao Jodha who founded Jodhpur. The land was usurped from the rivaling Jat rulers of that time. However, no matter how many wars the ancient city has seen in the past, today Bikaner is another prime tourist destination and is famous for its sweets and snacks. The place is known for its forts and food.
The various arts and crafts of this place are also unique, especially the intricately carved windowpanes called jharokhas. It is one town we would personally recommend for you to visit if you want to experience the authentic taste of rajasthani cuisines. The various fairs held in Bikaner also attract a huge no. of visitors from all around India and the world. The famous temples like Karni Mata and Laxmi Nath Temple etc. are also worth the visit. To know more about the main tourist destinations in Bikaner, please visit: places to visit in Bikaner.
Pushkar is a holy city in Rajasthan. It is one of the most sacred cities in India with lots of attractions like Lord Brahma Temple, Gayatri Temple, Savitri Temple, , Pushkar Palace, Rose Gardens, Pushkar Ghats, etc.
Lying in the Ajmer District of Rajasthan, the holy City of Pushkar is often described as the king of pilgrimage sites in India. The town is located at the shores of the Pushkar Lake, which was created by the tears of Lord Shiva. The town is one of the oldest cities of India and the date of its origin is unknown and is often associated with the Hindu mythology. The town is famous for its temples and various Ghats which are frequented by hundreds of visitors during the annual bath. The water of the lake is considered sacred and thus is responsible for the town’s repute as a pilgrimage spot. To learn more about tourist places in Pushkar, visit: Places to visit in Pushkar.
Chittorgarh –
The ancient city of Chittorgarh also known as Chittor, was said to have been founded by the Maurya Dynasty. However its significance rose when the Ruler of the Sisodiya Rajput Clan of Mewar captured the city in 734 Ad and made it the capital of Mewar. The place is known to be the birthplace of many great warriors and historical figures like the Great Maharana Pratap and the Hindu saint, Meera Bai. The city being an ancient place contains many different palaces, temples and forts which display some of the most advanced architectural designs and artistic mastery.
One of the major places to visit in Chittorgarh is the Chittorgarh fort, which is the largest fort in India. The fort was the former capital of mewar before its relocation to the more secure city of Udaipur. The fort was founded in the 7th century by the 1st Sisodiya Rajput Ruler Bappa Rawal and spreads over an area of 2.8 sq kilometers and its highest elevation point is 1,075 meters above sea level. Upon visiting you will experience and witness the Rajput style architecture at its best. The fort complex itself contains several palaces, gardens and temples most of which have a great historical significance.
Maunat Abu –
The place takes pride of it being the only hill station in the desert state of Rajasthan. Mount Abu is situated in the Aravalli mountain range and is a part of the Sirohi District of Rajasthan. The place apart from being a retreat for the people of Rajasthan and Gujarat from the scorching sun but has a lot of historical and religious significance. Mount Abu was known as the Arbuda Mountain, which has been mentioned in the Hindu Epic Mahabharata and is known for to be the place where the Great Sage Vashishta retired. The hill station houses many ancient sites and temples which are frequented by many pilgrims from across India along with many forts and lakes.
The place is a heavenly retreat for the sun scorched people of Rajasthan, with its lush green surroundings and various picnic spots. The Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Trevor’s Crocodile Park, Nakki Lake and the most Famous Dilwara Jain Temples are situated here. Apart from these, one can also visit the ruins of Achalgarh Fort which was built in the 17th century. The surroundings and the cool and enjoyable weather make it a place like no other in the desert state of Rajasthan. To know more about the main tourist destinations in Mount Abu, please visit: places to visit in Mount Abu.
Sawai Madhopur was built by Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh of The Kachwaha Rajputs and was founded in 1763. While the town itself doesn’t have any notable tourist attractions, just two attractions have made this city a must visit place in Rajasthan. They are the Ranthambore Fort and the Ranthambore National park. Both of the two places are a must visit and will take up around 2-3 days for one to explore properly. For other tourist attractions, please visit: tourist places to visit in Ranthambore. The Ranthambore forests were the hunting grounds for the Kachwaha Rajputs of Jaipur till the time India received its independence. After independence it was established as the Sawai Madhopur Game Sanctuary and it rose to being a tiger reserve in 1973 and got its national park status in 1980.
Bharatpur –
Bharatpur is a beautiful town in the state with attractions like Keoladeo Ghana National Park (formerly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary), Lohagarh Fort, Bharatpur Palace, etc.
The City of Alwar Founded by the Kachwaha Rajput Ruler Pratap Singh in 1770. The town’s name was Ulwar during those days and was changed to Alwar to bring it to the top in the alphabetically arranged list of the Princely states of Rajputana. The town is significant for its various military participations in various battles and was the first state of Rajputana to sign a treaty with the British East India Company.
The city being one of the princely states of the Rajputana has tones of tourist attractions. The forts, temples and the immense abundance of natural Fauna has brought this place in this list. The Haunted Bhangarh Fort, The Karni Mata Temple, the Historic site of Pandupole, and the Sariska Tiger Reserve are just a few of the many attraction this city houses.
Rajasthan is a safe haven for a wide and colorful range of wildlife. The landscape of Rajasthan broadly varies from the infertile arid wilderness, dense scrub-thorn woods, rocks and gorges to swamps and lush, very thick grassy woodlands. And each of these huge parts is a beautiful home for a big diversity of amazing endangered beasts and bird life. Some of them rare while some seriously scarce.
The state houses tigers, black bucks, chinkara, the sporadic desert fox, the greatly threatened caracal, the great Indian bustard, gavial, monitor lizard, wild boars, and porcupine. Exotic traveling birds like the common crane, ducks, coots, pelicans and the rare Siberian cranes, imperial sand grouse, falcons, buzzards herd to this land throughout the bitter chilly winter months. Large characteristic zones strongly demonstrating each of the ecologies have been reserved as vast singular wildlife extents. Rajasthan proudly lays claim to two National Parks, over a dozen Sanctuaries and two Closed Areas. Most of these wide expanses are open to tourists and guests ceaselessly around the year but remain shut temporarily through the rainy season.
Ranthambore National Park, Sawai Madhopur
The Ranthambore National Park is one of the largest and most important national parks in the country. It is one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan. It is situated in the Sawai Madhopur district in Rajasthan.
The Ranthambore National Park was originally established as the Sawai Madhopur Game Sanctuary in 1955 by the Indian Government and was brought under the Project Tiger scheme in 1973. It was declared as a National Park in 1980.
The adjacent forests of the sanctuary were declared as the Sawai Man Singh Sanctuary and Keladevi Sanctuary. In 1991, the Tiger Reserve was expanded by merging the nearby sanctuaries, and thus the Ranthambore National Park was formed.
The Ranthambore National Park is best known for its tiger population. The tigers can be easily spotted in the park. The best time to visit the park is in the months of November and May as the foliage gives way to good sighting opportunities of these majestic animals in their natural habitat.
The park is situated on a plateau and is bound by the rivers Chambal and Banas on either side. The majestic Ranthambore Fort is also situated within the limits of the Ranthambore National Park. The national park abounds in wildlife and is home to a large number of species including chitals, sloth bears, hyenas, sambars, wild boars, nilgai, leopards and tigers.
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Sariska National Park, Alwar
The Sariska Tiger Reserve is situated in the Alwar district in the state of Rajasthan and is one of the important national parks in Rajasthan. It was the hunting grounds of the State of Alwar. The sanctuary was declared as a Wildlife Reserve in 1955 and was brought under the Project Tiger scheme in 1978.
The vegetation in the Sariska Tiger Reserve comprises of dry deciduous forests, scrub thorn and grasses. The park is spread over 866 square kilometres and is situated at a distance of 107 km from Jaipur and 200 km from Delhi. The Sariska Tiger Reserve is a part of the Aravalli Range and is rich in minerals such as copper.
The most attractive feature of the Sariska Tiger Reserve is its population of Royal Bengal Tigers. It is home to a large number of wild animals including Rhesus monkeys, Hanuman langurs, hares, wild boars, chousingha or the four horned antelope, chinkara, nilgai, sambhar, golden jackals, striped hyenas, caracal, jungle cats and leopards.
It also has a significant number of bird species such as the Great Indian Horned Owl, crested serpent eagle, golden backed woodpecker, tree pie, sand grouse, bush quail, grey partridge, peafowl, and more. The reserve also boasts of some great historical sites such as the Kankanwadi Fort, the Pandupol Hills, the Hanuman Temple on the Pandupol Hill, among others.
The Sariska Tiger Sanctuary is also the first ever Tiger Reserve in the country where tiger relocation and rehabilitation has been carried out successfully. The declining number of tigers in the Sariska Tiger Reserve was confirmed in a report by a leading journalist in 2005.
The reporter in his story claimed that there were no tigers left in the reserve. This led to a series of investigations by the authorities and on learning that the report was indeed true, efforts were made to relocate tigers. Three tigers were reintroduced into the Sariska Tiger Reserve. The number has now grown to a total of seven with five adults.
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Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary , Bharatpur
The Keoladeo Ghana National Park was formerly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to a large number of migratory birds during the hibernal season and is a very popular tourist place in Rajasthan.
The bird sanctuary, which attracts a large number of ornithologists from all over the country and the world during the migratory season, plays home to as many as 230 avian species.
In 1971, the park was declared as a protected zone and was later included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites. The bird sanctuary is a man-made wetland and an important national park of Rajasthan.
The national park is of much importance, geographically, as it protects the town of Bharatpur from flooding during flash floods and also provides grazing grounds for the village cattle. In earlier days, the place served as waterfowl hunting grounds.
The bird sanctuary is home to 379 floral species, 366 bird species and several animals. The sanctuary is one of the richest areas of avian habitation in the world. The sanctuary came into existence about 250 years ago and is named after the Keoladeo Temple situated within its premises.
The Keoladeo Ghana National Park is one of the best birding areas in the world and receives as many as 1,00,000 visitors every year. Out of these, about 45,000 are foreigners. It is a very popular tourist destination in Rajasthan and for this reason, accommodation facilities have also been arranged in and around the sanctuary.
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Desert National Sanctuary, Jaisalmer
The Desert National Park is one of the important national parks in Rajasthan and is situated near the town of Jaisalmer. Sprawling over an area of 3162 square kilometres, the national park is one of the largest national parks in the country.
The unique landscape of the national park is one of the greatest attractions for tourists from all over the world. Almost 20 per cent of the park is constituted of sand dunes. The rest of the landmark comprises of fixed dunes, intermedial areas, salt lake bottoms and craggy rocks. It is an excellent example of the desert ecosystem.
Despite the landscape, the national park abounds in birdlife. The most commonly sighted birds in the national park include the endangered Great Indian Bustard, sand grouse, kestrels, laggar falcons, spotted eagles, tawny eagles, short toed eagles, vultures, buzzards, falcons, harriers and eagles.
The Desert National Park also has an impressive collection of plant and animal fossils which are as old as 180 million years. The most suitable time to visit the Desert National Park is between November and January. The most commonly sighted wild animals in the national park include chinkara, black bucks, hedgehogs, wolves, desert cats, Bengal foxes and desert foxes.
The most important attraction of the national park is the Great Indian Bustard, which is a magnificent bird found in very few numbers. The bird is brown and white in colour, measures about one metre in height and has long legs and neck.
Some of the other attractions near the Desert National Park are the Sam Sand Dunes located near the Thar Desert and the Gadsisar Sagar Tank. The Gadsisar Sagar Tank is one of the most popular tourist places in Rajasthan. A large number of migratory birds visit the lake during the winters every year. Tourists can also enjoy jeep safaris to explore a larger part of the area.
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Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Kumbhalgarh
The Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Rajsamand district of Rajasthan. The sanctuary is one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan.
Sprawling over an area of 578 sq km, the sanctuary surrounds the Kumbhalgarh Fort. Situated at an elevation of 500 to 1300 metres, the sanctuary is home to a large variety of wildlife, some of which are highly endangered species. Some of the animals that inhabit the sanctuary include hares, chinkaras, four horned antelopes, nilgai, sambhar, jungle cats, hyenas, sloth bears, leopards and wolves.
The sanctuary also abounds in birdlife and some of the birds that can be easily spotted here include grey jungle fowl, peacocks, doves, white breasted kingfisher, bulbuls, pigeons, golden oriole, and parakeets.
The natural grandeur of Kumbhalgarh is the most attractive feature about the sanctuary. Its scenic beauty attracts tourists and travellers from all over the country and the world. It is situated at a distance of about 100 km from Udaipur and this makes the sanctuary an extremely popular tourist place.
Visitors can enjoy foot tracking and horse safaris in the sanctuary, arranged by local tour operators. The route for safaris starts from the Kumbhalgarh Fort and continues till Ghanerao. On an abandoned road near Ghanerao, visitors can spot several bird species, four horned antelopes, chinkaras and neelgais.
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Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, Shekhawati
Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the borders of Thar Desert. The word ‘Tal’ appropriately means open and flat land. Extending out over an area of 1334 sq km, a humble house to an amazing diversity of wild birds, the Tal c is extensively famous for Black Bucks. The Tal Chhapar Wildlife Sanctuary more often than not remains enclosed by green lawns; trees are seen rarely in this large area .
The name Wayanad is derived from the expression ‘Wayalnadu’ which means a land of paddy fields. the Kabini river system of Wayand is the perennial source of water to Cauvery. This district enjoys the beauty of delightful landscape. It is covered with thick forests varies between 700 and 2100m above sea level.
The Banasura Project in this district hold an exclusive earth dam which will be the largest in India and the second largest in the world.
This is also the land of tribals with the highest concentration of tribal population in Kerala. There are a number of ancient temples, rock caves relating to the stone-age era, churches, mosques and antique monuments.
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Munnar
Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams – Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. 1,600 m above sea level, this hill station was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India.
Sprawling tea plantations, picture-book towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular resort town. Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flower which bathes the hills in blue once in every twelve years, will bloom next in 2018. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2,695 m. Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking.
Let us now explore some of the options in and around Munnar that would provide travellers ample opportunities to enjoy the captivating hill station of Munnar.
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Athirapally
At a distance of 32 km from Chalakudy, 73 km from Kochi, 59 km from Thrissur, 100 km from Munnar, 122 km from Kottayam, 170 km from Kozhikode, 174 km from Coimbatore & 269 km from Trivandrum, Athirapally Waterfalls are one of the best waterfalls in India and one of the most famous tourist places in Kerala & one of the popular weekend getaways from Kochi, Coimbatore & Munnar. These are magnificent waterfalls onChalakudy River located at the entrance to Sholayar hill range in Thrissur district.
This waterfall drops from a height of 80 feet through several parallel streams offering a great scenic beauty. In monsoon season, the water gets strength and all the streams join together and appear like Niagara Falls. This is the biggest waterfalls in Kerala and well known for its scenic beauty.
One can reach top of Athirapally falls with about 15 minutes walk from the falls entrance. It offers spectacular views of the Sholayar hills and a unique view of the waterfalls from this spot. About 10-15 minutes trek down from top of the falls will take you to bottom of the falls where the greatest beauty of the waterfalls can be experienced. Swimming is possible in the stream at bottom of the Athirappilly falls.
Down from the waterfall, the stream continues as Chalakudy River which ultimately drains into Arabian Sea. This river is a bio diversity hotspot with 85 species of fresh water fish living in it. The Athirapally Forest is also the natural habitat of different species like the great hornbill, Malabar pied hornbill, Malabar grey hornbill, Indian grey hornbill, Asiatic elephant, tiger, leopard, bison, sambar and lion-tailed macaque.
The Vazhachal Waterfalls, Charpa Falls, Anakkayam, Sholayar Dam, Valparai and Malayattur Wildlife Sanctuary are the nearby places to visit in Athirapally. It also offers adventure activities like river rafting, trekking, etc.
Chalakudy (32 km) is the nearest junction to Athirapally and it is connected by bus with Thrissur (55 km), Kochi (73 km) and Palakkad (110 km). One can take public/private vehicle from Chalakudy to reach Athirapally. Cochin Airport is the nearest airport to Athirapally which is 40 km away. Kochi and Thrissur are two major railways junctions nearby. The nearest railway station is Chalakudy Railway Station at 32 km from Athirapally.
Kumarakom
Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake in Kerala. Also known as the Queen of Vembanad, Kumarakom is the most famous Kerala Backwaters destination for traditional houseboat ride and it is among the most visited tourist places in Kerala state. This is also one of the ideal weekend getaways from Kochi & Trivandrum.
Kumarakom’s soil is extremely fertile due to the proximity to water source, this has resulted in the growth of a wide variety of flora in Kumarakom, especially the mangrove and coconut trees. Kumarakom is an unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves. It is also famous for Ayurvedic massage, yoga, meditation, boating, fishing and swimming.
The name Kumarakom was derived from the deity of an old temple Kumaran. Arundhati Roy, author of the 1997 Booker Prize-winning The God of Small Things, was raised in the nearby Aymanam village. In order to protect the ecology of the place, the Kerala government has declared Kumarakom as a special tourism zone. Kumarakom is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a noted bird sanctuary where many species of migratory birds visit. Egrets, darters, herons, teals, waterfowls, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian Stork visit here in flocks and are a fascinate the visitors. A two-hour rowing canoe trip is organized, and is best undertaken in the evening or early morning.
Vembanad Lake is one of the largest fresh water lakes in India. The major sightseeing option at Kumarakom is boat cruisein backwaters of Vembanad. There are Country boats and Houseboats for the boat cruise experience. A Houseboat cruise along the backwaters is really an amazing experience for every traveler to Kumarakom. Excellent marine and freshwater fish including tasty karimeen, shrimp, and prawns are available in the area. Kumarakom is the venue for Sree Narayana Jayanthi Boat Race held in September during Onam festival. More than 1000 oarsmen in boats of different sizes and shapes will participate in this event.
Cochin International Airport is the closest airport at a distance of 74 km to reach Kumarakom. Kottayam is the nearest railway station to Kumarakom (16 km). Kumarakom is also accessible by boat from Alappuzha.
Kumarakom is connected by frequent bus service from Kottayam. KSRTC bus service connects Kottayam to all cities in Kerala. Private run deluxe A/C buses connect Kottayam with major cities like Chennai, Mangalore, Bangalore and Trivandrum.
The best time to visit Kumarakom is from October-March while the peak season is September & November to February. Post monsoon is the best season for bird watching. Backwater cruising is prohibited during peak monsoons. It usually takes 1-2 days to explore the important places in Kumarakom.
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Alappuzha
Built in the 9th century AD, Alleppey, called Alappuzha lies on the edge of the great Ashtamudi Lake. With the Arabian Sea on the west and a vast labyrinth of lakes, lagoons and several freshwater riverscriss-crossing it, Alappuzha is a district of immense natural beauty.
Related to the Venice of the East by travellers from around the world, this Backwater Country is also home to diverse range of animals and birds. It has always been honored a unique place in the maritime history of Kerala for its proximity to the sea. Alleppey has earned fame in the commercial world as the world’s premier supplier of coir.
Today, Alleppey has emerged as a Backwater Tourist Centre, beckoning thousands of foreign tourists each year. Alleppey is also famous for its Boat races, Houseboat Holidays, Beaches, Marine Products and Coir Industry. Every year, during August-September, Alleppey wakes up to the pulsating Nehru Cup SnakeBoat Race, a water sport unique to Kerala.
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Kovalam
Kovalam offers an excellent diversity with Kovalam beach to suit all desires and occasions. Three curve shaped beaches, alienated by stony outcroppings, from the major attraction of this coastal resort.
Backed by precipitously mounting headlands and covered by fertile coconut palms, the beaches, especially the southern most part of lighthouse beach. It is also lined with a host of shops and shacks offering all kinds of services; creating an unmistakable resort atmosphere. Curio shops, hawkers of Kashmiri and Tibetan products, money changers and beachwear shops, between the surplus of restaurants and hotels, do brisk business during peak tourist season.
The sea port of Vizhinjam is about 3 km away and famous for its special varieties of fish, old Hindu temples, big churches and a mosque. The Proposed International Trans shipment Terminal at Vizhinjam is also close to Kovalam.
Kovalam was among the most famous traveler spots in India. It still has a high rank among tourists, who arrive mostly from Europe and Israel. Kovalam is finding a new implication in the light of severalAyurvedic salons, and healing and renaissance resorts which supply a wide variety of Ayurvedic treatments for tourists.
Kovalam beach is well known not only for its beauty, but also for the entertainment programs and sports conducted on the beach. One of the popular entertainments in Kovalam Beach is to enjoy beach bonfire with your friends or relatives. The beach fire rings and bonfires are usually enjoyed and promoted by local and foreign tourists.
You can smell the woods burning and hear the shouts of joy from different parts of the Kovalam beach in the evening. All have rings offered for free use on a first come first serve basis. The camp-like tradition lives on from generation to generation in this time honored celebration that brings families, friends and business associates together in a circle, huddled around the warm glowing flames to fend off the chilled night air of the Arabian Sea. The atmosphere and temperature in Kovalam is very goodwith soft winds creating a chill, especially in the evenings.
The busiest season at the beach usually runs from late May through early September. Free fire pits are greatly desired during this time, especially on weekends. It is not unusual for people to stake claim to a pit in the early afternoon, even when planning to use it later in the day.
Kovalam beach is well known for its beautiful sunset. Each and every day there will be something new to tell about the sunsetin Kovalam due to its beauty. The variation of colors such as red, orange and yellow in the sun and sky draw new master piece art works in the sky on every new sunset. Kovalam beach with its amazing sunset beauty attracted photographers all around the world to capture the beauty of sun and sky.
By the sunset, Kovalam beach will be active with songs, dances and celebrations of different tourists. Apart from tourists, there were many local inhabitants who often visit the beach to spend their evenings with family and friends. It is also interesting to watch the fishers fishing in the sea by sunset through ancient traditional ways.
Since 1930 Kovalam was a prominent international tourist beach. Kovalam Beach is located at a distance of six kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala. It is also known as the ‘Paradise of South India’. Kovalam beach spread widely over four kilometers and its glory spread all over the world. Kovalam beach is the world famousbeach of India.
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Kochi
Kochi (colonial name Cochin) is a vibrant city situated on the south-west coast of the Indian peninsula in the breathtakingly scenic and prosperous state of Kerala, hailed as ‘God’s OwnCountry’. Its strategic importance over the centuries is underlined by the sobriquet Queen of the Arabian Sea. Informally, Cochin is also referred to as the Gateway to Kerala.
From time immemorial, the Arabs, British, Chinese, Dutch, and Portuguese have left indelible marks on the history and development of Cochin. Over the years, Cochin has emerged as the commercial and industrial capital of Kerala and is perhaps the second most important city on the west coast of India (after Mumbai/Bombay). Cochin is proud of its world class port and international airport that link it to many major cities worldwide.
Tea Plantation This lovely seaside city is flanked by the Western Ghats on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west. Its proximity to the equator, the sea and the mountains provide a rich experience of a moderate equatorial climate.
Strictly speaking, Cochin is a small town. But, Cochin has outgrown its original bounds and is now the general name given to much of the region adjoining the original town, which now includes Cochin, Fort Kochi, Mattanchery, Ernakulam and many other nearby towns and villages. Cochin is situated in Ernakulam district in the state of Kerala. Ernakulam is also the name of a town – the administrative capital of Ernakulam district – but, for all practical purposes Ernakulam and Cochin, generally, refer to the same place.
Kochi is the arguably the ideal starting point for exploring the unfathomable diversity and beauty of Kerala, rated in the top three tourist destinations by the World Travel & Tourism Council and featured in National Geographic Traveler’s ’50 greatest places of alifetime’.
This site is an attempt to capture the beauty and vigor of this city and provide as much information as possible to people who wish to know more or visit Cochin. This site will use Cochin and Kochi interchangeably since they refer to the same place. Kochi is the original name of the city, while Cochin is the colonial name. Slightly larger version of some of the images can be found in the Cochin album or Kerala album . All hyperlinks marked with a will be loaded in a new browser window. Suggestions and comments on any relevant matter pertaining to this site or its content are always welcome.
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Thiruvananthapuram
The city gets its name from the word, Thiru-anantha-puram, meaning the city of Anantha or the abode of the sacred Serpent Anantha on which Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the Hindu trinity, reclines.
From around 1000 BC Thiruvananthapuram has been an ancient city with trading traditions. The rise of modern Thiruvananthapuram began with accession of Marthanda Varma in 1729 as the founding ruler of the princely state of Travancore. Thiruvananthapuram was made the capital of Travancore in 1745. The city developed into a major intellectual and artistic centre during this period. The golden age in the city’s history was during the mid 19th century under the reign of Maharaja Swathi Thirunal and Maharaja Ayilyam Thirunal. This era witnessed the establishment of the first Englishschool, the Oriental Research Institute , the General Hospital , the Observatory & Manuscripts Library and the University College . The firstLunatic Asylum in the state was also started during the same period. Sanskrit College, Ayurveda College, Law College and a second grade college for women were started by Moolam Thirunal during this era.
The begining of the 19th century was an age of tremendous political and social changes in the city. The Sree Moolam Assembly, established in 1904 was the first democratically elected legislative council in any Indian state. It was not under the direct control of the British Empire at any time, the city however featured prominently in India’s freedom struggle. The Indian National Congress made a very active presence in the city. In 1938 a meeting of the Indian National Congress was held which was presided by Dr. Pattabhi Sitaramaiah
kuIn 1931 Chitra Thirunal Bala Rama Varma took over and witnessed many-sided progress. The promulgation of “Temple Entry Proclamation” (1936) was an act that underlined social emancipation. This era also saw the establishment of the Kerala University which was formerly known as University of Travancore in 1937.
With the establishment of Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station (TERLS) in 1962, Thiruvananthapuram became the cradle of India’s ambitious space programme. The first Indian space rocket was developed and launched from the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) located in the outskirts of the city in 1963. Several establishments of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) were later established in Thiruvananthapuram.
A major milestone in the city’s recent history was the establishment of Technopark,India’s first IT park in 1995. Technopark has developed into the largest IT Park in India and third largest in Asia and is home to MNC giants like Infosys, TCS, Ernst & Young, UST Global etc; This placed Thiruvananthapuram on the IT map of India and it is today one of the most promising in the country in terms of competitiveness and capability.
Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) is the captial of Kerala and also the headquaters of the trivandrum District.It is a beautiful seaside city built on seven hills. It is located on the west coast of India near the extreme south of the mainland spreading over a total of 2,192sq.km.
Mahatma Gandhi has referred trivandrum as “Evergreen city of India“.
The city is the state capital and houses many central and state government offices, organizations and companies. Apart from being the political nerve centre of Kerala, it is also a major academic hub and is home to several educational institutions including the University of Kerala, and too many science and technology institutions, namely Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre , Technopark and IIST.
India Vacation Planning Travel Tips to Save Time & Money: Planning a India vacation requires a lot of planning and management. A lot of things need to be managed before going for a vacation. Money and time are the major aspects that play a vital role in the process of preparing for the vacation. Though it might take some time to plan, but the result that comes out after the process compensates all the other things.
Follow the list of tips that are perfect for saving money and time during vacation.
1. Planning:
The first to be followed holds utmost importance in making the vacation budget-friendly. Assess your financial position, decide the destination, book your tickets and move forward to the next step.
2. Stay Flexible:
Staying flexible with the travel dates is another way of saving money during the vacation. Book flights on dates where the fares are low, this way a huge amount can be saved.
3. Travel in Shoulder Season:
A trip can be taken at any point of time, but traveling during the shoulder season or the off-season is a better way of saving money and avoiding the crowds that hamper the reachability to various destinations.
4. Look for Special Deals:
Several travel websites and companies create packages and deals for travelers. Sign-up for the exclusive offers of all of them and grab the one that has the maximum advantage. Book flights/tickets after comparing all the offers.
5. Use Social Media:
Social Media is a great tool that helps connecting with different people, communities and places. Take advantage of social media and browse various travel websites to claim their promotional offers that are exclusively available on these sources.
Once the planning is done, book your tickets and hotels in advance. Making advance bookings not only ensures hassle free travel, but also helps in getting the benefits such as low prices, more options and choices.
7. Get access to Locales:
Locales help travelers in getting the inside information, thus making their task easy and convenient. Connect with the local people in order to get the inside scoop that can be utilized for further trip.
8. Take Public Transport:
After reaching the desired destination, opt for traveling through the public transport to cut down the expenses of commuting. Make the best use of them by taking route maps and guides to find places easily. Find best Rajasthan car rental services and choose best car rental service.
9. Carry extra cash/currency:
The currency conversion rates may be different in various countries. Taking extra cash from the beginning of the journey decreases the money spending on converting the currency. A lot of money gets saved by adopting this technique.
10. Stay at cheaper accommodations:
Finding a cheap accommodation in India online is another way that saves money while traveling. Staying in a hostel or a family-friendly places and hotels acts as great options for sticking with the budget.
Repeat the first step again and review the whole process. Implementing the ideas curated during the planning makes a good effort towards money and time management. Act wisely and choose better.
Rajasthan invites you to feel the adventure of a Camel Safari, which takes you through the golden sands of the vast. Thar desert. Like horse safaris, camel safaris are also popular in Rajasthan. The camel, popularly known as the ship of the desert, is not only common in the Thar desert, but also the only means of transportation in remote areas. Ride through sandy tracks, passing through remote villages. Pitch your tent at a new place each night. Spend the evenings next to the camp tire and dance to the folk music.
The safari is organised to take one through the golden sands of the vast Thar desert and untamed countryside, enabling one to experience the days gone by when time drifted at a leisurely pace. The rolling landscape of the sand & shrub covered area is breathtakingly beautiful and the range of flora and fauna surprisingly large for a desert area.
The camel breeders or Raika are the best guides. They know every pasture, waterhole and village of the region. One can ride or walk along leisurely with the safari and enjoy the deserts-cape. The camel-carts are fully equipped and tourists need not bother about comfort in the desert. camel safari can be arranged at Pushkar, jaisalmer or bikaner and also during nagaur fair,desert festival and Pushkar fair but without camel safari your journey to Rajasthan is not completed.
‘Rajasthan‘ – the land of the Rajputs, is known for its kings, fearless warriors and charming ladies. It is also known for its forts, palaces and temples which are a reminder of the glorious past. Kingdoms were carved and established by the Rajputs on horseback, while swords were stained with enemy blood.
Horses were highly priced and a Rajput warrior would give anything to own a good horse. Great care was taken to breed horses and to keep a clean and pure lineage. The result of many years of dedication and hard work helped create breeds like the Marwah, Kathiawadi and the sindhi, each having its own distinct characteristics and bred solely for the purpose of war. These horses were noted for their stamina and fierce loyalty to their masters, these gallant steeds, the Rajputs became famous worldwide.
In Rajasthan, the tourist can today have the pleasure of riding through trails dotted and marked with cenotaphs and tombstones of many brave and valiant Rajput warriors. Trails which take them through villages, pass huge and ancient forts and temples. Nights can be spent in ancient palaces and Garhs (small forts) now owned by the descendants of those glorious Rajput rulers. These palaces not only provide modern amenities but cultural programmes and entertainment is also available. Evenings are spent at campsites which are splashed with colour in the form of local folk dance and music.
A more recent, and exciting, variation of the camel safari is the horse safari, The Rajputs where born to be horseback reders, and the tradition wsas strongly engorced in the medieval ages when the cavalry formed one of the most important flanks of the desert armies, Special houses were bred at the thikanas or aristocratic homes of the
Thakurs who served their kings which armies of horsemen. The Marwari horse is an indigenous species, hardy agile and among the notables in worlds breeds, In addition, the Kathiawadi and Sindhi horses are also adept at traversing the desert countryside.
Horse safaris are usually conducted in the vicinity of Udaipur where the hilly terrain and forested countryside are ideal for taking to the trail.
Depending on the side of the group, the pack of cavalry can move swiftly or at leisure, moving form the vicinity of one old fort to another, There is additional excitement it that the route you stay in may have been those very ones where the ancient armies once rode and camped.
Horse safari routes can of course, be diverse, but most will pass close to villages, ruined historical monuments, and temples, These are ideal palaces to halt for a bit for rest and relaxation or lunch and a quick snooze , Riders and advised to equip themselves with riding gear the famous Jodhpuri breeches, hat, and boots, Depending on your capability to ride the houses may trot ro canter through the countryside, What matters most however is that each evening you are assured of the comforts of former palaces and forts : no better, or more historic way of exploring Rajasthan is possible
Wildlife houses some of the best wildlife and bird sanctuaries in India. The most popular ones are Ranthambore National Park, Sariska Tiger Reserve, Keoladeo National Park, and Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. Tigers, elephants, boars, bears, several species of birds, and various other inhabitants of the wild greet you to these wildlife sanctuaries.
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