Things To Do In Jaipur in Day Tour

Nearly 3 centuries since its inception, the pink city of Jaipur is not so pink any longer. The pink is where it was sometimes taking on an orange hue under the glare of the afternoon sun though it has been slowly and steadily edged out by the sprawling modern city growing beyond its walls.

8am to 1.30pm

1. Jaipur Amber Fort

Amer Fort is an imposing structure overlooking the Maota lake about 13kms away from Jaipur. built by Raja Man Singh and enhanced by his successor Raja Jai Singh. The elaborate courtyards, mahals and palaces with impressive carvings and inlay work leaves the visitor spellbound at the larger than life stature of the Rajput kings and their opulent life styles. It is open from 8am to 4pm for visitors and the light and sound show from 6pm in the outside lawns is highly recommended to experience the history of Amer.

2. Jaipur Jaigarh Fort

Jaigarh is the victory fort named after Sawai Jai Singh II who built this as the military fort to protect the living quarters of Amer Fort. The fort museum has some rifles, armoury on display  as well as the 20 feet long, 50 tonne Jaivancannon which was made in the fort foundry but was never used. The long passages along the fort lead to a courtyard overlooking the artificial lake that sustains Jaigarh. Choose a guide carefully who will explain things around and not force to visit the fort shopping area.

3. Jaipur Nahargarh Fort

Nahargarh Fort View from Jantar Mantar Nahargarh Fort was constructed by Sawai Jai Singh II in early 18th century. This fort on a ledge at the side of Aravalli Hills provided a magnificent view of Jaipur and was often used as a hunting retreat. Infact, you can see the fort from different parts of Jaipur specially Jantar Mantar. Later Madho Singh extended the fort to include living quarters for his queens which were all similar in design and connected through a long corridor. If you thought row houses and apartments are modern architecture, you must visit Nahargarh.

4. Jalmahal Palace

Jalmahal was built in the middle of Man SagarLake around 1800 AD by Sawai Pratap Singh and later modified and restored by Sawai Jai Singh II. On the way back from Amber to Jaipur, stop by the lake for a photo stop. The palace is now renovated and transformed into a luxury boutique hotel and is out of bounds for ordinary tourists. The palace appears like a glittering jewel in the evening.

5. Jaipur-Gaitore

Jaipur-Gaitore-Royal-Cenotaph-ChhatriGaitore – Where the royals have been laid to rest. The Chattris or the cenotaphs of the entire Jaipur Royal clan is housed in a compound in Gaitore and is a quiet place away from the hustle and bustle of Jaipur. The marble one with arched domes and 20 intricately carved pillars is dedicated to Sawai Jai Singh II. Stop by on the way back from Amer Forts to Jaipur for about 15-30 minutes and you will surely get the essense of the place
2pm to 6pm within Pink City area in Jaipur

6. City Palace Courtyard Jaipur

Jaipur City Palace is in the heart of the city and while some parts are open to public, the royal family continue to reside in the Chandra Mahal. It is a sprawling compound with different museums showcasing clothing, jewelry, Armoury, buggies, gathering halls, handicraft centres etc. The gates in the inner courtyard dedicated to the different seasons and a religious deity have ornate motifs specially the one with the peacock. Opt for a audio guide if you want to move around in your own pace. Photography is not allowed in most parts so let your eyes feast and the heart feel the grandeur for posterity.

7. Jantar Mantar

Jantar Mantar in Jaipur Jantar Mantar – which unveils everything about the sky above us. Located next to the Jaipur City Palace, this observatory built by Sawai Jai Singh II in his quest for astronomy has about 14 Jantar’s (Equipment) performing Mantar (Calculation) to tell us the time, date, eclipse, movement of the planets etc. The tall Samrat Yantra 27 feet high and angled at 27degrees to match the latitude of Jaipur is actually a Sun Dial that predicts the time of the day pretty accurately. Take a Audio Guide and go around at your own pace and if you are not a great astronomy buff, you can complete it in 1-1.5 hours

8. Hawa Mahal Jaipur

Hawa Mahal – The Palace of Winds is a bright pink façade complete with numerous (953) latticed windows was originally built for the Royal Ladies to observe street processions and festivities. It is a five storied structure and you need to climb 5 storeys to experience the breeze in your hair.  Located within walking distance from City Palace in the Pink City Premises with wonderful street food stalls around. The pictures of Hawa Mahal have been synonymous with Jaipur for years.

If  you are spiritually or religiously inclined stop by at the Govindji Temple within Pink City for the evening Aarti.

6pm onwards …

9. Shopping:

If you are looking for knick knacks and traditional Jaipur handicrafts and block printed stuff, tye and dye Bandhni, bangles and jewelry then hunt around the various lanes in Pink City Market. Check for the quality and also bargain hard. There are some workshops and outlets on Amer Road which are specialized in Block Printing and Tye and Dye. Some of them will gladly show the art of block printing if possible visit one such place. The high end boutiques  in the malls and up market areas of Jaipur have some wonderful pieces of traditional and fusion clothing which of course come for a price.

Top 10 Places To Visit In Winter In India

With a string of holidays and a list of festivals and fairs, winters in India are marked by vacations to plan your year around, a dreamy beach holiday, hill stations resembling postcard sceneries and its southern tips and desserts welcoming all its visitors that had been shying away till now given their generous humidity and temperatures. Here is a list of 10 Places To Visit In Winter In India.

1. Lakshadweep

Experience the quintessential island temperature, splash in the azure water, explore the beautiful coral reefs, and enjoy the myriad of water sports at the white sandy beaches of Lakshadweep. Though it is a year-round travel destination, but what make it as one of the best winter destinations in India is its pleasing weather particularly in this season. And what is more? You would not mind a sun-tan in winters.

2. Kerala

 

As the monsoon departs, the natural grandeur of Kerala reaches its zenith. The Western Ghats and the backwaters add to Kerala’s unique charm and make it the destination for best winter holidays in India. Kerala has a plethora of options to offer — Kovalam and Varkala beaches, Alleppey backwaters, Thekkady and Kumily spice gardens, Kalady spas and Ayurveda, and Munnar tea plantations.

The lion-tailed macaque at Silent Valley National Park, tigers and elephants in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, and variety of birds at the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary make Kerala a prime destination for nature lovers as well.

The delectable dishes, loud music, beach parties, and crazy crowd; everything about Goa is electrifying. With the Christmas and New Year parties, Sunburn, and Goa Film Festival scheduled for the winter months, the high spirits of Goa make it the best among the winter destinations in India. In addition to the party vibes throughout the season, the salubrious weather ensures that this winter destination in India doesn’t disappoint the tourists.

3. Tamil Nadu

You wouldn’t dare to plan a trip to Chennai and other surrounding regions of Tamil Nadu in summers and the monsoons that follow. But when it comes to places to visit in winter in India, the state of Tamil Nadu is a tourists’ favorite. Be it the rocky sculptures, caves, and crocodile farm of Mahabalipuram, picturesque view of the hills at Ooty, or the exotic flora and fauna species at Madumalai — Tamil Nadu never fails to amaze its tourists with its attractions. And as a cherry on the cake, there are the temples, churches, and beaches of the metropolitan city of Chennai.

Tip: When on a trip to Chennai, you must also visit the French colony of India – Pondicherry, another favorite among the winter destinations in India.

4. Rajasthan

Among the most popular winter holiday destinations in India, Rajasthan is the pick of the season by both Indians and foreign tourists due to its amazing brew of royalty, tradition, culture, colors, and history. Get one step closer to history with the awe-inspiring palaces, mighty fortresses, traditional dance and art, local cuisine, and the mesmerizing sands of the Thar Desert.

5. Karnataka

With a history dating back to the Paleolithic age, Karnataka has been the home to the most powerful empires of ancient and medieval India. Ranked as the fifth most popular state for tourism in India, the ancient sculptured temples, modern cities, the hill ranges, forests, and beaches make Karnataka a perfect place to visit in winter in India.

Gokarna for its beaches, Jog falls for its breathtaking view of waterfalls, Coorg hill station for its picturesque views, and the UNESCO Heritage site at Hampi are the most famous tourist attractions in Karnataka.

6. Gujarat

The land of an array of archaeological sites, temples, local tribes, baolis, and more, Gujarat is coveted as the Cultural Capital of India. The Rann Utsav at the white desert of the Great Rann of Kuchh and the Asiatic lions at the Gir Forest add to the tourist attractions of this winter holiday destination in India.

7. Himachal Pradesh

If you are looking for winter honeymoon destinations in India, go no further. Winters in these hill stations of Himachal Pradesh – Kullu, Manali, Shimla, Dharamshala, and McLeodganj are perfect for adventure sports, winter honeymoons, and enjoying a snowfall.

Enjoy river rafting in the Beas river at Kullu, paragliding, tobogganing, and skiing in Solang Valley near Manali, night camping at McLeodgnj, and a walk down the mall road in Shimla.

8. Delhi

Shimmering in the spectacle of a myriad of monuments, lush gardens, open markets, and a plethora of architectural marvels, the capital city Delhi is amongst the best places to visit in winter in India. The hot summers and humid monsoons restrict the locals and visitors to their abodes or the malls. It is in winters when you can enjoy its true glitz and culture.

Visit the major tourist attractions and monuments including the 3 UNESCO Heritage monuments – Qutab Minar, Red Fort, and Humayun’s Tomb. You can also go shopping and street food hunting at Chandni Chowk, or simply walk through Connaught Place and Hauz Khas.

9. Uttarakhand

 

Due to its proximity to the Great Himalayas, Uttarakhand has many tourist spots for all seasons – ancient temples, forest reserves, national parks, hill stations, and mountain peaks.

The foggy winter mornings, a slight nip in the air, a greater chance to sight the wild animals including the tigers make the experience of Jim Corbett National Park extra special in winters. And then there is Nainital that is the one of the best winter destinations in India, thanks to the snowfall it receives during winters. And those seeking adventure sports must try rafting and bungee jumping in Rishikesh.

10. Kashmir

Coveted as the ‘Paradise on Earth’, Kashmir valley is a tourist attraction all year round known for its lush Mughal Gardens, glittering Dal Lake, and the picturesque hinterlands. But it is the winters when the combination of the lush green valleys and the snow capped mountains makes the experience absolutely amazing.

Build a snow man or engage in a snow fight in Sonmarg, enjoy skiing and cable car at Gulmarg, or walk hand-in-hand with your loved one in Pahalgam. And do not miss a walk through the Mughal Gardens in Srinagar.

Top 10 Monsoon Destinations in India

If you need to plan a quick escape to some of these done-to-death as well as some offbeat places in India and change your opinion about the glorious rainy season of India. These are the places where you can truly sense the cool gentle winds, light raindrops and that smell of earth. Monsoons in India are truly a rhapsody of bliss, beauty and relief from the scorching summer sun and they are meant to be savoured.

Look at the Honeymoon Tours.

1. Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand

Just about 6 hours drive from Delhi, Jim Corbett National Park is a treat for wildlife lovers. The plus point of visiting Corbett during monsoon is that it’s not crowded. Rumour has it that Corbett National Park is closed during rainy season for safety reasons (and also partly because of breeding time) but out of the four zones – Dhikala, Bijrani, Durga Devi and Jhirna, Jhirna zone  is open for visitors all around the year.  You’ll be surprised to know that rafting in Jim Corbett is only possible during monsoon as Kosi river remains depthless rest of the year. A 3-hour long jeep safari is also prearranged every morning and evening that will let you go deep inside the forest to explore the serene flora and fauna. Riding on an elephant back is also possible during monsoon in Corbett as Elephant Safaris are also organized. It’s easier to spot animals like boars and antelopes and some bird species like parakeets, quails and barbets during the rainy season.

2. Udaipur, Rajasthan

This charming city is sprinkled with historic structures all around exuding regal grandeur. Home to the most sophisticatedly designed palaces, havelis, buzzing streets, and beautiful lakes. The city of Udaipur, also called the ‘Venice of the East’ comes alive during the months of July-August but remains an unpopular destination among travellers throughout the monsoon season. The city is well-equipped with a wide variety of hotels and lodging options that suit every pocket, restaurants that offer scrumptious Rajasthani dishes and bazaars that are popular for their handicrafts.

Surrounded by Aravilli Hills, Monsoon Palace was built in the year 1884 by Maharana Sajjan Sing for the purpose to keep a track of the movement of monsoon clouds. Formerly known as Sajjan Garh Palace, it has been recently opened for public. After the light showers of rain, the bird’s-eye views from the Monsoon Palace are remarkable – highlighting the lush greenery and enchanting lakes. Around eleven hours away from Delhi by road, Udaipur’s beauty only gets enhanced during the monsoons. Make sure you visit Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, City Palace, Jag Mandir and Udaipur Ghat while you’re there.

3. Deoria Tal, Uttarakhand

A mixture of mythology and natural beauty make Deoria Tal an enchanting place to visit. Especially during the monsoons when the little lake is brimming with emerald green water. Located about 3 km on an uphill trek from the villages of Mastura and Sari, on the Ukhimath–Chopta road in Uttarakhand, this lake is believed to be the bathing places of devas according to the Puranas. It is surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of Chaukhamba, Nilkantha, Bandarpunch, Yellow Tooth, Kalanag and Kedar Range. On a clear day you might be lucky enough to catch a captivating reflection of these peaks on the lake waters. Enclosed by thick forests and lush greenery this place is a trekker’s delight. One needs to drive about 12 km to Sari Village from Ukhimath and from Sari Village one can reach Deoria Tal via a trek route of 2 km approx. There is no motorable road to Deoria Tal. The trek is a paved path from Sari Village up to Deoria Tal, although it is quite steep at some places. There are many rest houses or shelters on the trek.

4. Bishnupur, West Bengal

Located at a distance of about 150 km from Kolkata, Bishnupur is a hub for terracotta architecture, crafts and culture. For almost a thousand years, it was the capital of the Malla dynasty of Mallabhum, as a result of which it is today one of the principal centres of culture in Bengal. Most of the exquisite terracotta temples were built during this time, in the 16th century, and are today a huge part of Bishnupur’s lure. August marks the beginning of Monsoon season in Bishnupur and it lasts till early October. The place looks beautifully fresh.  The stunning terracotta structures having been washed by the rains obtain a striking reddish orange hue which is seriously eye-catching against the greenery around.

Apart from the exquisite architecture, it is also famous for its terracotta crafts and Baluchari sarees which are made of a pure silk weave and feature motifs representing Indian mythology. The Bishnupuri School of Hindustani Classical Music and the Bishnupur School of Painting are also widely known. Be sure to wander the area and explore the Malleshwar Temple, which is the oldest temple in the area.

5. Goa

During the monsoon season, there is much more to Goa than just those pristine beaches and picturesque landscapes. Dudhsagar Falls is one such place to get a thrill of the rainy weather. Situated in the southern part of Goa – Mollem and in close proximity to the Karnataka border, Dudhsagar waterfall is at its best and is much-admired throughout the monsoon. During the months of June to September, Dudhsagar waterfall is picture perfect with thriving green forests. From a distance, the waterfall looks like the flow of milk down the mountains and hence, the name Dudhsagar, literally meaning ‘Sea of Milk’. Don’t forget to take a dip in the refreshing cool water while embracing nature.

6. Kutch, Gujarat

Located in the northwest side of Gujarat, Kutch is the largest district in India. Rann of Kutch has 18 cultural tribes which makes the place well-liked among travellers. The never-ending desert plains with surreal horizon in the monsoon give an enticing view. Kutch is even more dreamlike during the monsoon as it gets submerged in the water. For rest of the year, it’s an enormous stretch of white salt appearing to give the look of a white desert.  On the full moon nights, cultural programmes are organized at Dhordo to celebrate Gujarat’s rich culture and traditions. One of the must-things-to-do in Rann of Kutch would be – a moon light camel safari.

7. Malshej Ghat, Maharashtra

An alluring hill station at an altitude of 700 metres above the sea level, Malshej Ghat is a captivating tourist destination because of its refreshing climate. Well-known for its numerous lakes, gushing waterfalls, and charming mountains, this hill station is a favorite tourist destination among adventurers and nature lovers. A typical woody countryside, Malshej Ghat is renowned for its rich flora and fauna. Though Malshej Ghat is a year round tourist destination, monsoon brings amazing charm to this beautiful hill station. The verdant valleys and woody forests of Malshej react to the call of the monsoon by flaunting the beauty of its lakes and waltzing waterfalls and the misty fog at the top. The beauty and charm of this marvelous hill station is more visible when it is under heavy fog and dark clouds. But what make Malshej Ghat so eminent are the large flock of migratory Pink-legged Flamingos coming from Siberia. Their mating dance is an eye-catching spectacle.

8. Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir

Ladakh is an amazing place to visit especially during the monsoon season. This region does not experience rains like anywhere else in India, making it a perfect time to travel here. Leh’s Buddhist monasteries and historical monuments are the biggest attractions for visitors. There is an 800 year old Kali Mandir located in the heart of the town that houses a fascinating collection of masks. The 17th Century Leh Palace built in traditional Tibetan style offers an enthralling view of the town. Leh has a lot to offer for nature and adventure lovers as well in the form of para gliding and hiking. You can choose your trekking trails if you wish to go in for a long trek. White water rafting is also possible during this time along the Indus River in Leh as well as the Shayok River in the Nubra Valley. The Nubra Valley, on Khardung La, has the world’s highest motorable road which adds to it being another unforgettable trip. The hanging glaciers, green villages, Buddhist monasteries on the way along the Zanskar River make this journey even more spectacular.

There are camel safaris in Nubra Valley as well. The blue-black Pangong Lake is another must visit with part of it running into China. The journey though long is beautiful starting from Thiksey village which has a gigantic monastery to passing the huge mountains and finally the Changla pass. Another reason to visit this place is the Ladakh festival that takes place during the first two weeks of September. The festival opens in Leh with a spectacular procession through the streets with the villagers dressed in traditional costumes, dance and sing folk songs.

9. Shantiniketan, Kolkata

Every year more and more curious travellers are visiting Shantiniketan to get a feel of the place, which was grown and nurtured by the Noble laureate Rabindranath Tagore. Though, it can be visited any time of the year, it looks lovely in the rains. Shantiniketan as we know it today was shaped by Rabindranath Tagore, who started an open-air school 40 years after his father had founded an Ashram here in 1863. A place thus conceived where the cultures of the East and the West could meet in camaraderie and thereby strengthen the fundamental condition of world peace.

Shantiniketan resembles a lush green resort when after a long summer spell rains decide to wet the earth. There are a number of places that you can check out. The Visva Bharati campus has a number of buildings that are known for their unique architecture. There are beautiful gardens around that present a pretty picture. The Varsha Mangagal is celebrated in July-August. Cultural shows are held and a tree planting ceremony is preceded by Halokarshan (ploughing). Besides the in-campus highlights, there are a good number of places located around Shantiniketan. Kankalitala, 9 km away on the bank of the Kopai river is a sacred Hindu shrine. Deer Park (closed on Wednesday), 4 km from Shantiniketan is another interesting place to visit. Nanoor, 23 km from Shantiniketan is the birth place of the 14th century Vaishnava poet Chandidas. Regular buses are available from Bolpur Railway Station. One can also visit Joydev-Kenduli, which is the birth place of Joydev, the author of Geet Govinda, the 12th century masterpiece in Sanskrit

10. Munnar, Kerala

The undulating hills of Munnar, South India’s prime tea-growing regions, are carpeted in emerald-green tea plantations. The low mountain panorama is splendid especially during the monsoons when mist envelopes the mountain tops.

Even though many tourists avoid Munnar during the monsoons, this is a great time to visit the hill station if you’re looking for a quiet vacation. Covered with lush green foliage, monsoons in Munnar have a charm of their own. This is also a great time to enjoy discounts on hotel tariffs and enjoy Munnar without throngs of tourists. You must carry an umbrella or raincoat along.

Top 10 Tourist Places In North India

Think of India and it’s likely that visions of formidable forts, palaces, and temples will come to mind, set against a backdrop of bright colors and history. These top tourist places to visit in north India showcase the region’s diverse beauty.

1. Agra

Agra’s Taj Mahal is one of the most famous buildings in the world, the mausoleum of Shah Jahan’s favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is one of the New Seven Wonders of the world, and one of three World Heritage Sites in Agra. Completed in 1653, the Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal king Sh?h Jah?n as the final resting place for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Finished in marble, it is perhaps India’s most fascinating and beautiful monument. This perfectly symmetrical monument took 22 years (1630-1652) of hard labor and 20,000 workers, masons and jewelers to build and is set amidst landscaped gardens.

2. Old Delhi

Delhi, Capital of India has many attractions like mosques, forts and other monuments that represent India’s history. The important places in Old Delhi include the majestic Red Fort. New Delhi on the other hand houses many government buildings and embassies, apart from places of historical interest. The Qutub Minar, Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb have been declared World Heritage Sites.

Check our Rajasthan Tour Packages.

3. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

One of the top spiritual destinations in India, Varanasi is a sacred Hindu city with a very old history. Known as the city of Lord Shiva, the god of creation and destruction, it’s believed that anyone who dies here will be liberated from the cycle of reincarnation. Even a wash in the Ganges River is said to cleanse away all sins. The fascinating thing about this mystical city is that its rituals are revealed openly to along the many riverside ghats. which are used for everything from bathing to burning the bodies of the dead. Yoga, blessings, massages, shaves and games of cricket are among the other activities you’ll find performed along the river edge.

4. Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh

Although Khajuraho is a little out of the way, don’t give it a miss on this basis. Nowhere else will you find such unique temples with meticulously detailed carvings. These ancient temples, which date back to the 10th and 11th centuries, are best known for their erotic sculptures. There are over 20 temples devoted to sexuality and sex. However, more than that, they show a celebration of love, life and worship. They also provide an uninhibited peek into ancient Hindu faith and Tantric practices.

5. Udaipur, Rajasthan

There’s no better place to experience India’s regal splendor than Udaipur. It really is India’s most romantic city! Who could resist the allure of its enchanting old mansions, beautiful gardens, intricate temples, and grand palaces overlooking expansive shimmering lakes. The City Palace, which stretches along the eastern shore of Lake Pichola, leaves visitors spellbound. The way it has been constructed is exquisite, with Rajput military architecture and Mughal style decorative techniques both combined together. The Mewar royal family still lives in a part of it too!

6. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Jaisalmer, Rajasthan’s fairy tale sandstone city, features a remarkable living fort that was built in 1156 and is perched high on a pedestal overlooking the city. Inside, it houses five palaces, several temples, and some exquisite havelis (mansions), as well as shops and other residences. Camels safaris into the desert are another highlight.

7. Haridwar and Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Haridwar and Rishikesh are holy places situated not far from each other at the foothills of the Himalayas. While Haridwar predominantly attracts Hindu pilgrims, Rishikesh is acknowledged as the birthplace of yoga and is more popular with western spiritual seekers.

8. Manali, Himachal Pradesh

There’s Manali — and, there’s Old Manali. A little up hill from Manali town, the village of Old Manali is a world away from the crowds. You’ll find traditional homes and quaint guest houses, surrounded by apple orchards and snow-covered peaks. Old Manali is one of the top destinations for backpacking in India and is refreshing place to relax in the pure mountain air.

9. Leh and Ladakh

Remote Ladakh has become an increasingly popular tourist destination since it was opened to foreigners in 1974. Leh, the most common entry point to the region, is bounded by two of the world’s largest mountain ranges and surrounded by alpine desert. Buddhist monasteries and trekking opportunities are the biggest draws for visitors.

10. Srinagar, Kashmir

Srinagar, in predominantly Muslim Kashmir, is a place of splendid natural beauty, with serene lakes and Mughal-style gardens. Srinagar is most well known for its houseboats, a legacy of the British that has rapidly multiplied. Although civil unrest has been a concern in the area, harming tourism in the past, calm has been restored and visitors are returning to the area. It’s often referred to as the “Switzerland of India”. Head there in early April to catch the magnificent Tulip Festival.

Top 10 Tourist Places in South India

South India, This part of India has enormous beaches, waterfalls, forests, lakes, backwaters, Wild Life Sanctuary etc. The famous cities in this region are Hyderabad and its twin city Secunderabad, Mysore, Bangalore (Bengaluru), Kochi (Cochin), Trivandrum (Thiruvananthpuram), Chennai (Madras), Kanyakumari (Nagercoil)etc. Some of the famous hill stations in this region are Kodaikanal, Ooty (Ootacamund), Munnar etc.

1. Hampi, Karnataka

One of India’s top historical destinations, the laid back village of Hampi was once the last capital of Vijayanagar, one of the greatest Hindu empires in India’s history. It has some extremely captivating ruins, intriguingly intermingled with large boulders that rear up all over the landscape. The ruins, which date back to the 14th century, stretch for just over 25 kilometers (10 miles) and comprise more than 500 monuments. An incredible energy can be felt at this ancient place.

2. Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal

The heritage sites of Badami (formerly Vatapi), Aihole and Pattadakal are a worthwhile side trip from Hampi. They’re rich in monuments, temples and ruins from the Chalukya empire, which ruled there between the 4th to 8th centuries. The renowned Chalukya style of architecture originated in Aihole and the village is filled with around 125 stone temples, which unfortunately don’t get the attention they deserve. Badami is one of the top places to see caves in India, with four sets of magnificent ancient rock-cut cave temples. Pattadakal is smaller, with one impressive temple complex.

3. Kerala Backwaters

Cruising along the palm-fringed Kerala canals, known as the backwaters, is a quintessential experience during which time truly seems to stand still. Indian food cooked by a chef and chilled beer on board the boat make it even more enjoyable. You can spend the night on the boat, out in the middle of the water, surrounded by serenity. Bliss! And while you’re in the area, why not stay a night or two at a resort or home stay on the backwaters? You’ll be able to feast on freshly caught and prepared seafood, according to traditional recipes.

4. Varkala, Kerala

The fairy tale setting of Varkala beach is enough to take your breath away, with a long winding stretch of cliff and views that extend over the Arabian Sea. A paved footpath runs along the length of the cliff, bordered by coconut palms, quaint shops, beach shacks, hotels, and guest houses. Nestled at the bottom of the cliff is a sparkling beach, reached by steps leading down from the cliff top. It’s not surprising that Varkala is one of India’s best beaches.

5. Fort Kochi, Kerala

Known as the “Gateway to Kerala“, Kochi is an enchanting city that’s had an eclectic influence. The Arabs, British, Dutch, Chinese, and Portuguese have all left their mark on the city. Most people recognize Kochi from pictures of the famous Chinese fishing nets that line the waterfront. Fort Kochi is full of architecture and historical sites, and is a marvelous place to stroll around and explore on foot. You can also catch a Kathakali dance performance and get an Ayurvedic treatment.

6. Madurai, Tamil Nadu

Ancient Madurai is home to the most impressive and important temple in south India, the Meenakshi Temple. If you only see one south Indian temple, this temple should be it! The city of Madurai is more than 4,000 years old, and has remained a major center for Tamil culture and learning. The old traditional part of the city is fascinating to explore on foot. These days, Madurai attracts pilgrims and tourists in equal numbers. The 12 day Chithirai Festival, featuring a re-enacted celestial wedding of God and Goddess, is held in Madurai during April each year.

7. Pondicherry

Pondicherry was a former 18th century French colony and remains a separate union territory on the east cost of Tamil Nadu. It retains a distinctly French flavor and provides a delightful break. Wander around the atmospheric French Quarter and along the Promenade, soak up the peaceful atmosphere, dine in delicious restaurants, and browse the boutiques. Sri Aurobindo Ashram attracts plenty of spiritual seekers.

8. Mammallapuram (Mahabalipuram), Tamil Nadu

Mahabalipuram (also known as Mamallapuram) is a beach town with a thriving backpacker and surfing scene, an hour away from Chennai. It’s also renowned for its stone sculpture industry, so keep some money aside to shop!  Other attractions are the Shore Temple, Five Rathas (temples sculptured in the shape of chariots), and Arjuna’s Penance (a huge carving on the face of a rock depicting scenes from the Mahabharata). A classical dance festival happens there every year from late December to late January.

9. Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi

Rameshwaram is a peaceful little pilgrim town in southern Tamil Nadu, brought to life by the constant stream of pious people that come to bathe in its holy water, get a puja done to purify their karma, and visit Ramanathaswamy Temple. The town and temple are tied to the Hindu epic the Ramayana. This is where Lord Ram got Lord Hanuman to build a bridge across the ocean to rescue Sita from her abductor, Ravan. Adam’s Bridge (also referred to as Ram Setu), a chain of reefs and sandbanks, is said to be the place where the bridge was located. It’s about as remote as you can get, and almost connects India with Sri Lanka, only around 30 kilometers away.  In this area, not far from Rameshwaram, are the eerily crumbled and windswept remnants of Dhanuskodi, a town destroyed by cyclone in 1964. The approach to Rameshwaram is dramatic, with two long bridges (one for trains and one for other vehicles) linking it to the mainland.

10. Mysore, Karnataka

Mysore has an impressive royal heritage, with the city’s main tourist attraction being the imposing Mysore Palace. There are many other interesting buildings, palaces, and temples to see. Its zoo is one of the best in India. Mysore is also an excellent place to shop for sandalwood, and study Ashtanga yoga.

Top 10 Luxury Hotels In India

India has realized the immense potential of tourism in India during vacations. India travel tourism has grown rapidly with a great influx of tourists from all across the globe who have been irresistibly attracted to the rich culture, heritage, and incredible natural beauty of India. find best & top 10 luxurious stay in India. five star luxury hotels in India.

1. The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur

The Oberoi Udaivilas is one of the mostluxurious hotels in entire India. It’s located at the historical land of Udipur Rajasthan which shows the traditional beauty of forts, palaces & monuments. The Oberoi Udaivilas offers the royal beauty of historical architecture, luxurious rooms, rippling fountains, transparent pools, boat riding, and outdoor activities. You will feel like you are living in the palace with Rajput (Kings) style. Although it is costliest too, if you have good budget, the Oberoi Udaivilas hotel is must recommended for you.

 2. The Taj Mahal palace, Mumbai

The Taj Mahal Palace is one of the oldest and royal hotels located in Mumbai, India. It is the first choice of travelers to stay who visit to Mumbai for holidays, vacations or business trip. It is the luxurious hotels in Mumbai with the beauty of Gateway of India and amazing night view over the infinite blue ocean especially in moon night. The Taj Mahal offers luxurious rooms, spa facility, bars, nightclubs, fitness club, swimming pool, shopping center, restaurant/cafe and more-n-more what a tourist can expect from a world class hotel.

3. The Oberoi Raj Vilas, Jaipur

The Oberoi Rajvilas is one of most famous, costliest and royal five star hotel is Jaipur Rajasthan which is famous for its luxurious palace renowned rooms, royal villas, private pools, gardens and the incredible lakes view with the beauty of old Rajasthan fort style. There is also good facility for business and corporate meetings with secretarial services to make your business/corporate meeting/event a success.

4. Taj Lake Palace , Udaipur

Taj Lake Palace, Again one of the most popular and romantic hotel from Udaipur, winner of several times prestigious awards which famous for its natural beauties and incredible architectural. It is also famous as a prime honeymoon destination in India surrounding by Aravali Mountains. Taj Lake Palace accommodations can be categories into five level i.e. Grand Presidential Suite, Grand Royal Suite, Royal Suite, Palace rooms (villas) and luxurious rooms. You will get all the facilities in your room as Rajput style.

5. The Oberoi Mumbai

The Oberoi hotel (Mumbai) is the part of The Oberoi group which is best known of its most luxurious hotels in India. The Oberoi hotel is one of the main competitors of The Taj Palace in Mumbai which offers presidential suite, premier suite, premier ocean view room, Oberoi executive ocean suite, deluxe and luxury rooms. It also offers world class night bars, pubs, nightclubs, fitness center, spa, salon with luxurious facility. The Oberoi is the first choice of travelers whenever they visit Mumbai for any reasons e.g. holidays, business meeting, break etc.

6. Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad

There is no doubt Taj Falaknuma Palace is one of the best and finest hotel in entire Hyderabad, and also the most recommended choice of any tourist when they visit in this hi-tech city. The ancient architecture of this palace can impress anyone at first sight. It reminds the lifestyle of Indian Nizams and British kings. It equipped with world class luxurious rooms with Mughals style, conference halls for business, `private pools,  wide range of restaurants, modern style clubs, bars, spa and natural lawns. It is also very close to Hyderabad top tourist attractions like Charminar, Salarjung museum, Chowmahalla palace, Golconda fort, Ramoji film city, Qutub shahi tombs etc

7. Wildflower Hall, Shimla

Situated at the top point of magnificent Himalaya, Wildflower Hall is the best luxurious hotel at the high hills point of Shimla. You can enjoy there swimming pools, spa and sun beds at the top of Shimla mountains. It provides luxurious rooms, conference hall, business center, health clubs etc. It also offers adventures activities like trekking, mountain bike riding, archery, billiards and more.

8. Leela Palace Kempinski, Bangalore

Leela palace Kempinski is one of the best luxurious hotels in the garden city Bangalore. The royal architecture, rich golden shaded infrastructure and ornate ceilings make it differ from any other fiver star hotels in Bangalore. It offers separate swimming pools, business rooms, ayurveda center, clubs, bars, spa and world class royal premiere & deluxe rooms which offer all available facilities that an excellent class deluxe room deserves.

9. The Leela Palace Kempinski, New Delhi

The Leela Palace Kempinski New Delhi, Again one of the royal hotels of the Leela Palace Kempinski Group. One of the best 4-5 star luxurious hotel in New Delhi which is very close to Prime Minister’s residence, Rashtrapati Bhavan (President House), the Secretariat, and Qutub Minar (One of the famous historical monument of Delhi, even India). It offers more than 250 luxurious rooms, expensive restaurants, exclusive spa, bars and nightclubs make it so special. This hotel is highly recommended by travelers, honeymooners, corporate sector travelers, professionals, and premium customers

10. Vivanta by Taj – Malabar, Kochi/Cochin

The Vivanta by Taj, located at Willingdon Island with the outstanding view of Kochi harbour and natural beauty ofgreen-blues beaches. You can experience there special sea foods, Thai foods, local Kochi foods and best known barbecue foods. It offers luxurious room facility with the beaches view & great hospitality. The best thing about The Vivanta, you can enjoy boat cruise with the facility of cocktails/lunch/dinner. This makes it differ than any other 5 star hotels in India.

Top 10 Tourist Places In India

India is the world’s seventh-largest country stretching from the high mountains of the Himalayas to the tropical greenery of Kerala, and from the sacred Ganges to the sands of the Thar desert. Its more than one billion inhabitants are divided into two thousand ethnic groups and speak over 200 different languages. Below we have mentioned “Top 10 Tourist Places In India”.

1. Agra

Agra’s Taj Mahal is one of the most famous buildings in the world, the mausoleum of Shah Jahan’s favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is one of the New Seven Wonders of the world, and one of three World Heritage Sites in Agra. Completed in 1653, the Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal king Shah Jahan as the final resting place for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Finished in marble, it is perhaps India’s most fascinating and beautiful monument. This perfectly symmetrical monument took 22 years (1630-1652) of hard labor and 20,000 workers, masons and jewelers to build and is set amidst landscaped gardens.

2. Jaipur

Jaipur is also popularly known as the Pink City, is the capital of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Jaipur is a very famous tourist and education destination in India. visit City Palace, Jantar Mantar, is the largest of the five observatories built by Sawai Jai Singh.  Hawa Mahal the “place of wind”  and Birla Mandir Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Amber Fort, Jal Mahal Palace, You can also enjoy the walks in the Markets of the Pink City to enjoy the Heritage View of the City and to know the culture of  Rajasthan Lots of people flock to Jaipur to view the various forts and monuments in Jaipur which reflect its glorious past. Tourism is a significant part of Jaipur’s economy. Some of the world’s best hotels are located here.

3. Goa

Goa is Famous for its pristine beaches, infect 90% of all the tourism in Goa happens only for its beautiful beaches in Coastal Areas. Goa has two main tourist seasons: winter and summer. In the winter time, tourists from abroad (mainly Europe) come to Goa to enjoy the splendid climate. In the summertime (which, in Goa, is the rainy season), tourists from across India come to spend the holidays. In 2008 there were more than three million tourists reported to have visited Goa, more than half million of whom were from Foreign visitors. Infact, many foreigners have made Goa as there home for its laid-back and relaxed lifestyle.

4. Kashmir

Kashmir was once called Heaven on Earth, and once of the most beautiful places in the world. However, in last couple of decades, terrorism has faded its charm – A place home to Himalayan Ranges. The State of Jammu & Kashmir has main three geographical regions known as “The Lesser Himalayas” or the “Jhelum Valley” (Kashmir), “The Inner Himalayas” or “The Indus Valley” (Ladakh & Frontier areas) also called “Trans-Himalayas”, and “The Outer-Himalayas” or “The Southern mountain range” (Jammu). The area of Jammu & Kashmir is 2, 22,236 square kilometers.

5. Udaipur

Udaipur, formerly the capital of the Mewar Kingdom, is a city in the western Indian state of Rajasthan. Founded by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1559, it’s set around a series of artificial lakes and is known for its lavish royal residences. City Palace, overlooking Lake Pichola, is a monumental complex of 11 palaces, courtyards and gardens, famed for its intricate peacock mosaics.
Lake Pichola boat tours take visitors past the 18th-century, white-marble Lake Palace, which covers an entire island and is now a hotel. Another island contains the domed Jagmandir Palace, former summer resort of the Maharanas, mostly constructed in the 17th century. Elsewhere, in Udaipur’s sprawling old city, is towering Jagdish Temple, completed in 1651 and dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. The Bhartiya Lok Kala Museum of regional folk art is known for its traditional puppet shows, while the hilltop Monsoon Palace offers sweeping views of the city and the surrounding ridges.

Find best Udaipur tour packages here.


6. Kerala (Backwaters)

Kerala, situated on the lush and tropical Malabar Coast, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Named as one of the “ten paradises of the world” and “50 places of a lifetime” by the National Geographic Traveler magazine, Kerala is especially known for its ecotourism initiatives, Beautiful Backwaters and Alternative healing massages.

7. Old Delhi

Delhi, Capital of India has many attractions like mosques, forts and other monuments that represent India’s history. The important places in Old Delhi include the majestic Red Fort. New Delhi on the other hand houses many government buildings and embassies, apart from places of historical interest. The Qutub Minar, Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb have been declared World Heritage Sites.

8. Darjeeling

Darjeeling in India owes’ its grandeur to its natural beauty, its clean fresh mountain air and above all, the smiling resilient people for whom it is a home. Known for its natural splendor, Darjeeling’s best gift to its’ visitors is the dawn of a new day. The mountains awaken first with a tentative peeking of the sun. A steep ride, five kilometers from Ghoom, or an invigorating walk up a steep incline, leads sun worshippers to Tiger Hill. The air is chilly with darkness and damp. To the east, a dull orange sun emerged painting the sky with brilliant strokes of magenta, gold, orange and fuchsia. The snow capped Everest, Kabru, Kanchenjunga, Jannu and other peaks slowly emerge from slumber to start a new day. The sun worshippers gasp at the magnificent sight.

9. Leh – Ladakh

The Ladakh capital city of Leh lies near the eastern parts of Jammu and Kashmir, on the crossroads of the historic “Silk Route” from Sinkiang to West Asia and to the plains of India. The humbling monasteries of Shey, Hemis, Alchi, Thikse and Lamayuru will nurture your spiritual needs, and the landscape of Leh provides for a number of adventure activities including mountaineering, white-water rafting and trekking along the Markha Valley.

10. Rohtang Pass

If you are fond of cooler temperatures, Snows and mountains, Rohtang Pass HAS to be on your list! There are multiple reasons for it. First and foremost, Rohtang Pass is one of the very few places in India where you will find snow throughout the year – if you love skiing, you cannot miss this place.However, do check your calendars properly as this place is closed in the winter months for nearly six months. The season starts from April-May and runs until October, after which this place gets lots of snow and the place is closed. Afterall, this is 13,000 feet above sea level!

Top Most Fairs & Festivals In Rajasthan

There are a number of Fairs and Festivals of Rajasthan happen to celebrate various rituals and lifestyle of the people. Fairs like Pushkar Fair or the Camel Fair, the Kite Festival, Gangaur Festival, Marwar Festivals The Desert Festival are some of the prominent fairs and festivals of Rajasthan. These Festivals are celebrated with great joy and tourists from all around the globe come to see the dramatic folk dances, exquisite handicrafts, mouthwatering delicacies and experience the heartwarming hospitality of the state.

Check out our dedicated websites for Jaisalmer Desert Festival, Bikaner Camel Festival and Pushkar Camel Fair.

Camel Festival Bikaner:

The BikanerCamel Festival is organized in the beautiful city of Bikaner, Rajasthan by the state’s Tourism Department. The desert town of Bikaner is located in the Northern part of Rajasthan. The festival is organized every year in the month of January or late December to emphasize the value of ship of the desert – “Camel”. The two day festival is marked by different interesting activities. This festival starts off with a magnificent procession of bedecked camels against the red sandstone backdrop of the Junagarh Fort (1588-1593) in the town.

Nagaur Fair:

Nagaur Fair is the second biggest fair in India. The fair goes on for eight days. NagaurFair, Rajasthan is held every year during the month of Jan-Feb.  It is popularly known as the Cattle fair of Nagaur. This is because the Nagaur Fair is mainly all about trading of animals. Approximately 70,000 bullocks, camels and horses are traded every year in this fair. The animals lavishly decorated and even their owners dress up wearing colorful turbans and long moustaches.

Kite festival:

Kite festival of Jaipur is observed on the day of Makar Sankranti or Uttarayan. Celebrated on 14th of January to mark the transition of the sun from dhanu rashi (Sagittarius) to makara rashi (Capricorn), the day is considered auspicious. It is said that Uttarayan or northward journey of the sun begins on the day of Makar Sankranti. A prominent one out of the festivals of Rajasthan is the Kite Festival. Certainly, it’s a festival that is unique in its own way. The colourful kites hovering over whole of Rajasthan brighten up the skies. This festival is largely celebrated in Jaipur and Jodhpur. The kites-with-lights flown add to the fancy of the festival. If you like kite flying, this is the festival for you.

 Baneshwar Fair Baneshwar:

Baneshwar Fair is a five days event starting from Shukla ekadeshi of Magh month, as per the Hindu calendar. This is the unique and biggest tribal fair of the country that attracts lakhs of devotees. This fair is annually held in Dungarpur, Rajasthan. The name Baneshwar is derived from the holy Shiva Linga located in the Shiv temple in Dungarpur. ‘Baneshwar’ in the local language Vagdi means ‘master of delta’. The fair is organised at the delta formed by rivers- Mahi and Som. The fair continues till Shukla Purnima of Magh. Baneshwar is situated 24 kms away from Aspur, which is in the Dungarpur district.

Gangaur Festival:

Gangaur is one of the most vivid festivals rejoiced with great enthusiasm and happiness all over the Indian state of Rajasthan. In the word Gangaur, ‘Gan’ is the synonym for Lord Shiva whereas ‘Gaur’ stands for Gauri or Goddess Parvati. But mainly, this festival is held in the honors of Goddess Parvati as she is regarded as the epitome of marital love, strength, courage, power and excellence. During the festivities, married women worship Goddess Parvati for the long life, well being and wealth of their husbands while the girls pray for getting a smart and an understanding life partner.

Mewar festival:

Mewarfestival is observed to welcome the arrival of spring season with all zest and dedication in Udaipur, Rajasthan. During the days of festival, the whole city of Udaipur gets drenched in colors of festivity. Local markets and shops beautify their frontage with bright lights and decorations. Coinciding with the Gangaur festival, Mewar festival is equally significant for the womenfolk of Rajasthan.

 Elephant Festival:

The Elephant Festival is an annual festival which is held every year in the Pink City, Jaipur. This matchless event is organized on the full moon day of Phalgun Purnima which falls in the month of February/March. The Elephant-headed God, Ganesha, believed to be the remover of obstacles and foremost to all the gods, is revered and devotedly worshipped in all the parts of India. its venue got changed in 2011 and has been shifted to Jaipur Polo Ground which is opposite to the Sawai Mansingh Stadium.

Urs Ajmer Sharif, Ajmer:

The DargahSharif Ajmer, located at the foot of a barren hill, is the place where the Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti mortal remains lie buried. The Dargah (tomb) with a marble dome is situated in the center of a courtyard and is surrounded by a silver platform. It’s believed that the shrine is a place of wish fulfillment for those who pray with devout and pure hearts. People of all religious faiths visit the Dargah and make offerings of rose and jasmine flowers to seek the blessings of the Khawaja.

Teej Festival:

festival is Teej, which falls in the monsoon months of July-August. On this occasion, married women pray to Lord Shiva and Parvati to bless them with happy and long married life. Celebrated in and around Rajasthan this festival of swings welcomes monsoon.

Kajli Teej:

As per the Hindu calendar, Kajli Teej is celebrated on the third day of the fifth Hindu Month ‘Saawan/Shravan’. On this day Lord Krishna is honored by the women by singing prayers and devotional songs and performing the scared ritual of ‘Neem Puja’. Kajli Teej celebrations in Bundi, Rajasthan is the most popular one. In Bundi, it is celebrated on the third day of the Hindu month ‘Bhadra’. This day is completely dedicated to the Goddess Teej. Although Kajli Teej takes place for two days, its celebrations are generally extended till Janmashtami (Lord Krishna’s birth anniversary).

Dussehra Festival:

Dussehra is the beloved festival that is celebrated almost all over India but Dussehra in Kota certainly sets it apart with 75 feet tall effigies of the demons Ravana, Kumbhakarana and Meghnath that are burnt here on Dussehra day. Villagers dress themselves in colorful dresses and offer prayers to Lord Rama. There is a dazzling procession that mesmerizes the onlookers that come here from the surrounding villages and provide a ripe opportunity for the traders to display their wares. Cultural Programmers are organized and one can see the scintillating performances by the prominent artistes who come here from all over the country.

Marwar Festival, Jodhpur:

The most popular Jodhpur festival is the Jodhpur Marwar Festival. It is held every year in memory of the heroes of Rajasthan. Marwar Festival of Jodhpur, Rajasthan was originally known as the Maand Festival. The festival is held in the month of Ashwin. Ashwin is a Hindu month between September-October. The venue of this festival includes the famous Umaid Bhawan Palace, Mandore and Mehrangarh Fort.

Pushkar fair:

The sprawling annual festivities of the 100 year old Pushkar Mela through its dramatic collage of diversified pictures, mirrors the vibrancy of the gracious state of Rajasthan. It is celebrated for five days from the Kartik ekadashi to Kartik Poornima, the full moon day of Kartik (October–November) in Hindu calendar.

Top 14 Most Important Pilgrimage Destinations in Rajasthan

Rajasthan the land of splendor is a visual delight of shrines, palaces, forts, mansions, fairs, festivals, culture and traditions. Some of renowned and spiritual pilgrimage places of India are found in Rajasthan. The fascinating pilgrimage places of Rajasthan attract huge number of pilgrims and devotees towards them all around the year. And apart from being a pilgrim destination these places are appealing to tourists as well, as they have various other attractions in them.

We have listed some of the most important pilgrimage destinations in Rajasthan.

1. Brahma Temple, Pushkar 

 

One of the oldest cities of India – Pushkar is famous for housing the only Brahma temple in the world. Located on the banks of Pushkar Lake this temple is dedicated to Lord Brahma “the creator god”, who is believed to have performed penance here for 60,000 years to have a glimpse of Lord Radha Krishna. Steps of marble lead you to the interior of the temple where a silver turtle lies embossed in the floor and around it are hundreds of silver coins embedded in the floor only. This temple holds an important place in the Hindu religion and is visited by hundreds of devotees every year. Pushkar also has various other temples that can be visited such as Varah Temple, Mahadeva Temple, Gayatri Temple and Raghunath Temple etc.

2. Jain Temple, Ranakpur 

Ranakpur the city holding a huge respect in the Jain community as it is one of the five main religious places of Jains. The city has incredibly carved Jain Temples in India. Well known for its magnificent white marble temples created in 15th century during the reign of Rana Kumbha and enclosed within a wall. The main temple is “Chaumukha Temple” which is dedicated to Lord Adinath and is a four faced temple. The breathtaking architectural style of the Temple is distinct and unique. There are 29 halls and 80 domes standing on the 1444 pillars of which amazingly no two are alike and has its own interesting carving. Ranakpur is undoubtedly one of the main religious destinations in Rajasthan.

Also you can enjoy Rajasthan Fair & Festival Packages.

3. Dargah Sharif, Ajmer 

The city of Ajmer on Ana Sagar Lake is one of India’s most important pilgrimagesites for Muslims. It attracts its fair share of pilgrims and tourists from all over. Dargah Sharif is one of the most sacred Muslim shrines in India and is venerated by both Hindus and Muslims. Situated at the foot of a hill, this is the tomb of a Sufi saint, Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti who had come to Ajmer from Persia in 1192 and devoted his life to the upliftment of the poor. Millions of pilgrims come to Ajmer for the saint’s annual Urs or death anniversary in October.

4. Dilwara Temples, Mt Abu 

Mt. Abu the only hill station in Rajasthan is known for various facts and the extraordinary Jain Dilwara Temples is one of them. The temples here are counted among India’s finest temple architecture with intricate carving that showcases the brilliant work of the artisans. The oldest temple in this complex is “Vimal Vasahi” which is dedicated to the first tirthankar, Adinath and took 14 years to build which was started in 1031. The “Luna Vasahi” is dedicated to Neminath the 22nd tirthankar and took 15 years to build which was started in 1230. The other three temples in the complex are “Bhimashah Pittalhar”, “Mahaveerswami” and “Khartar Vasahi”.

5. Karni Mata Temple, Deshnok 

Deshnok is a small village in Rajasthan located just 30kms from Udaipur, is known for Karni Mata Temple which is dedicated to Karni Mata, an incarnation of goddess Durga. It is one of the most visited temples in Rajasthan and attracts large number of pilgrims to attend the annual Karni Mata Fair. It is a magnificent temple with huge silver gates and carved marbles. One strange feature of the temple that amuses everyone who comes here is that the temple is house to huge number of brown rats that wander all over the place without any hindrance and seeing the rats is believed to be auspicious.

6. Ek lingji Temple, Udaipur 

Located 22kms from Udaipur on the banks of Indersagar Lake, Eklingji Temple is a huge temple complex consisting of 108 temples. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva with a 50ft high black stone statue with four faces depicting his four forms. The east-facing part is recognized as Surya, the west-facing part is Lord Brahma, the north-facing part is Lord Vishnu and the south-facing part is Rudra i.e. Lord Shiva himself. The other deities that are worshipped here include Parvati, Ganesha, Kartikeya and Saraswati. During the festival of Shivratri the entire temple complex and deities are beautifully decorated and attracts a large number of devotees.

7. Shrinathji Temple, Nathdwara 

Nathdwara located just 48kms from Udaipur, is a holy town and known for housing Shrinathji Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. The idol of this temple is carved out from a single piece of black marble and according to history the statue was being moved to Mewar kingdom from Mathura during the reign of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. But the chariot in which the statue was being shifted got stuck here and did not moved further; hence a shrine was established at Nathdwara.

8. Govind Devji Temple, Jaipur 

The temple is a vital part of the City Palace complex – Govind Dev Ji Temple. It is one of the prominent temples of Rajasthan and situated in Jaipur it is visited by many people annually. Dedicated to Lord Krishna and has been well preserved by the earlier royal family. And the image was brought from Vrindavan, installed here by Sawai Jai Singh; Govind Devji is an incarnation of Lord Krishna. It is visited by many pilgrim and devotees along with tourists who visit the City Palace.

Look at the Rajasthan Tourism and Rajasthan tour Itinerary.

9. Galtaji temple Jaipur

Located on the outskirts of Jaipur, there are a number of notion related to Galtaji temple. It is believed that area surrounding Galtaji temple used to suffer from scarcity of water at one point of time. As a result, a sage named Galva meditated for a period of 100 years in order to appease the God. Pleased with the effort, it is believed that God blessed the region with a stream of water which solved the problem of dearth of water. To offer their tribute to the sage, the people constructed a temple known as the Galtaji temple.  Once you visit the temple, you will realize the presence of a spiritual aura around the temple. As a huge number of devotees visit the temple throughout the year, they take part in the chanting of the religious hymns, people paying curtsy to God and that imparts such an ambiance to the place surrounding the temple. The particular aura of the temple added with the mystic beauty of the place makes it a great experience for the visitors.

10. Motidungari Temple Jaipur

Located in the midst of serene natural beauty, the Moti Doongri temple is a wonderful tourist spot that portrays jaw dropping architecture. Built on the lines of Scottish castle, the very sight of the temple will make your visit to the temple truly worthy. Then add to it, the spiritual importance of the temple which draws a huge number of devotees as well. There are several attractions in the Moti Doongri temple. The temple complex that boasts a Ganesh temple is a great attraction for devotees as thousand of devotees visit the temple to witness the Ganesha temple. Coming to Jaipur and not visiting the particular temple will make your Jaipur trip incomplete. The sheer beauty of the temple added with a picturesque location makes it a wonderful experience for the tourists.

11. Randevji Temple Runicha, Jaisalmer

Shri Randevji is believed to have been incarnated on earth for the welfare of humanity and was born in the houses of Ajmalji in the Tomar Rajput family. He had some innate divine powers. Since childhood, he performed many miracles and won the hearts of the people. He is also believed to have killed a demon called Bhairav. Ramdevji chose Ramadevra as the place where he attained a Samadhj and went into a divine state of meditation. Nevertheless many people claim to have seen him on horse-back. The present cenotaph was constructed by Maharaja Shri Ganga Singhji of Bikaner at Shri Ramdevra Runecha.

Fairs are held here twice a year when people flock to the temple and chant the glory of Ramsa Pir, so that their prayers may be answered. Many cultural events are also organized during this fair. Mainly two principal fairs are held in honor of the great sage. The first fair is held in the month of January and February and the second fair is held in the month of August and September. Thousands of devotes visit Ramdev Shri Ramdev Temple. People have great belief and faith in the temple. Entry to the tomb has been allowed to all irrespective of caste and religion. Devotees offer sweets, coconuts, makhanas, misri and cloth made horse-image on the tomb. Inside Shri Ramdev Temple complex in Ramdev there is a water tank also. A dip in that is considered to have a curative effect on skin diseases. Some followers come from great distances on foot, while some creep on their belly to reach the temple. Bus service and various private vehicles from major cities of Rajasthan will take you to Shri Ramdev Temple in Ramdev.

12. Parshvanath Temple Nakoda , Barmer

ParshvanathTemple at Nakoda has a history that dates back to 1224 A.D during the Vikram Era. The idol of Parshvanath was kept under covers for protection. Earlier this temple was of Mahavira. This temple holds an important place amongst the various other Religious Places in Rajasthan. This temple is an important stopover for the travelers who are on their pilgrim tour of Rajasthan. The ambience in and around this temple is very calm and offers a bliss which is simply captivating. It is surrounded from all the sides by the valleys. The hills have an elevation of 1,500 feet. The image of the Jain saint (tirthankara) Parshvanath is in the black stone apart from the other statues the different parts of India and also the world as well to come and pay visit to this lovely piece of architectural wonder. There are also the other temples that are located in the vicinity of Parshvanath Temple at Nakoda such as the Charbhuja temple and the Shiva temple that are around 500-600 years old.

13. Birla Temple Jaipur

Built by Birlas, this temple is one of the major Jaipur Touristattractions. Though the construction of the temple started in 1985, it is not yet completed yet. The construction is still being carried with significant additions made from time to time. These additions make the temple look even more beautiful and continue to draw tourists, even the ones who have visited the temple previously. Compared to other temples of Jaipur, this temple is quiet young but that does not take away its appeal to the tourists. Built in a place that is surrounded by verdant trees, the temple made of white marble is a great sight for the visitors. The magnificent white marble used in the construction of the temple is responsible to a great extent for imparting such a beautiful look to the temple. It truly fascinates the visitors.

Here you can find Family Tour.

14. Kaila Devi Temple Karauli

KailaDevi Temple built by the devout king Bhompal when he received instructions from Goddess Kaila as he was true devotee of hers. Hence, he built the temple and since then it has attracted many pilgrims since ages. Devotees come to the shrine from length and breadth of country. The Shakta cult of Hindus hold sway of the temple but it is worshiped by all Hindus and all others alike. Kaiala Devi has strong hold on the pilgrims and she is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga. Besides, being an important pilgrimage center for Hindus, the shrine is also significant for its architecture. You can worship two idols in the sanctum sanctorum.

As the neck of Kaila Devi is bent, the idol is bit reclined. The temple is the best example of medieval architecture. The shikhar of the temple is very high, towering like a pyramid. The engravings, carvings and ornamental works on the walls and pillars is very intricate yet interesting. It is a marble structure with a large courtyard of a checkered floor. In one place are a number of red flags planted by devotees.

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Top 5 Most Romantic Honeymoon Destinations in Rajasthan

Are you getting married and planning for a best honeymoon destination in Rajasthan ? If you’ve always dreamt of the perfect  romantic honeymoon, it’s time to stop dreaming. Here are the list of honeymoon destinations  in Rajasthan to visit, it will make your honeymoon tour package a lifelong memorable moment for life . Honeymoon vacation is that special time of your life when you get to know each other and begin a new life. So, your honeymoon destination must be special and happening. Let us checkout some of the most enthralling honeymoon destinations in rajasthan. we had selected the best  honeymoon places in rajasthan.

1. Udaipur – City of lakes best romantic place in Rajasthan.

The beautiful lakes, white marble palaces with their stunning architecture, and the royal resorts in Udaipur offers the most romantic environment for the couples. The newlyweds would definitely find a perfect combination of love and romance in this city.

 2. Jaisalmer –  Enjoying honeymoon tour in Thar desert.

Jaisalmer is known as the golden city. It is emerging as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations. The beauty of the monuments, forts, desert and the folk music and folk dance here at Jaisalmer will offer the perfect atmosphere for enjoyment for the honeymooners.

3. Mount Abu – Plan Honeymoon in  popular hill station in the Aravalli Range.

The only hill resort of Rajasthan, Mount Abu is a pleasant retreat, set amidst the lush forested hills. A green oasis in the barren desert scrape, the hill retreat, owes its cool climate to its rich flora, covering the entire hillside that includes coniferous trees and flowering shrubs. The road leading to Mount Abu is a curved one characterized by arid region, dotted with huge rocks, in weird shapes and high velocity winds. Many of the rulers, from the surrounding princely states, had summerhouses built here. It’s stunning array of exquisite Dilwara Jain temples of the 11th century, makes it a popular pilgrimage center.

4. Pushkar –  The romantic weather and beautiful landscape  in holy land.

Pushkar is renowned as a sacred city of the Hindus and with an altitude of 510 m; it is located 10 km from the city of Ajmer, Rajasthan. According to Hindu Myths, Lord Brahma killed the AsuraVajra Nabha with a lotus flower.  Petals of that lotus flower fell at three places, one of which is Pushkar. It is believed to be one of the five dhams of Hindus. Pushkar also boasts of some of the finest resorts for honeymoon couples.

5. Jodhpur – Known as the Blue City and the Sun City.

Jodhpur is one of the most romantic honeymoon destinations of Rajasthan and offers a unique and royal experience for the couples amidst the glittering golden sand away from the usual mountains and beaches. The rustic villages, heritage monuments and the magnificent palaces make it a perfect place for  a couple would like to visit soon after their nuptials.The village safaris and the interaction with the locals will give the tourists an actual feel of village life.

Padharo Mhare Desh – "पधारो म्हारे देश"

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