Voyages India Tours & Travels

Karol Bagh, Delhi

Duration : 16 Days ::Destination : Delhi - Mandawa - Bikaner - Jaisalmer - Rohet - Deogarh - Udaipur - Bundi - Jaipur - Neemrana - Delhi :: ::Enjoy Night stay at Forts, Palaces & Havelis :: :: Day 01: Arrive Delhi ::On arrival meet and assist at the airport and transfer to prebooked hotel and overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 02: Delhi - Mandawa ::After breakfast, half-day city tour of Old Delhi. Visit Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Built by Shah Jahan, the construction was started in 1844 and was not completed until 1658; Red Fort, which was also built by Shah Jehan. This massive fort was built from 1638 to 1648; Chandni Chowk and Rajghat - the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. Afternoon, leave for Mandawa. Arrive Mandawa and check in at Heritage Hotel. :: :: Day 03: Mandawa - Bikaner After breakfast, visit Mandawa (Shekawati region). This region came into prominence in the 14th century when a number of Muslim clans moved into the area and the towns of this region developed into important trading posts on the caravan routes emanating from the ports of Gujarat. This region is famous for painted havelis (houses) most of which date back from the 18th century. The major towns of interest are Mandawa, Fatehpur, and Nawalgarh. Visit the havelis in Mandawa and other villages of Shekhawati region. Afternoon, leave for Bikaner. Arrive Bikaner and check in at Heritage Hotel. :: :: Day 04: Bikaner - Jaisalmer After breakfast, city tour of Bikaner - a desert town founded in 1488 by Rao Bikaji, a descendant of the founder of Jodhpur, Jodhaji. Visit the Junagarh Fort, which was constructed between 1588 and 1593 by a general in the army of the Mughal Emperor, Akbar. The fort has a 986m long wall with 37 bastions and two entrances; Camel Breeding Farm, managed by government this camel breeding station is probably unique in Asia and has thousands of camels. Afternoon, leave for Jaisalmer. Arrive Jaisalmer and check in at Heritage hotel. :: :: Day 05: Jaisalmer ::After breakfast, city tour of Jaisalmer. Visit the Citadel - the Fort built by Rawal Jaisal where a fourth of the population lives. The fort also houses Jain temples of the 12th to 15th centuries, Patwon Ki Haveli - a five-storey mansion with carved pillars & murals of Salim Singh. Also a courtesan has built visit Gadsisar, which had once supplied water to the city; the temples & archways around it. Afternoon, excursion to Sam - 45 km away, is known for its sand dunes & is the venue for the Desert festival. Get the actual feel of the desert by enjoying a camel ride on the sand dunes and witness a magnificent sunset on the sand dunes. Return to Jaisalmer for overnight stay. :: :: Day 06: Jaisalmer - Rohet ::After breakfast, leave for Rohet. On arrival in Rohet, check in at Rohetgarh. In the afternoon, city tour of Jodhpur. Visit the Mehrangarh Fort, which literally means "Majestic Fort", located at the very centre of the city. There are, in all, three gates, each built to commemorate a particular victory, as well as to reinforce the fort. It has a collection of musical instruments, palanquins, furniture & cannons on the forts' ramparts are well preserved. Jaswant Thada: Close to the fort complex lies this white marble cenotaph, built in 1899, in commemoration of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Rare portraits of Jodhpur's rulers are, also, to be seen at Jaswant Thada. Also visit the Clock Tower - the city centre. :: :: Day 07: Rohet - Ranakpur - Deogarh ::After breakfast, leave for Deogarh. Enroute visit the Jain temples at Ranakpur - The cluster of temples, made of intricately sculpted white marble. It would take anyone by surprise to learn that they were built in 1460, so well preserved & sparkling is the marble. The main temple is supported on 1, 444 pillars - none of which is similarly carved. After the visit, continue drive to Deogarh. Arrive Deogarh and check in at prebooked hotel. :: :: Day 08: Deogarh - Udaipur ::After breakfast, free. Afternoon, leave for Udaipur. Arrive Udaipur and check in at Heritage Hotel. :: :: Day 09: Udaipur ::After breakfast, visit the romantic city of Udaipur. Visit the City Palace which is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan; Jagdish temple, a fine Indo Aryan temple built in 1651; Sahelion ki Bari or Garden of the Maids of Honour, which is a small garden with its fountains, kiosks, marble elephants & lotus pool. In the evening, boat ride on Lake Pichola. :: :: Day 10: Udaipur - Chittorgarh - Bundi ::After breakfast, leave for Bundi, enroute-visiting Chittorgarh. The hilltop fortress of Chittorgarh epitomises the whole romantic ideal of Rajput chivalry. A stronger enemy sacked the fort 3 times from 1303 to 1568 and on each occasion, the end was "Jauhar". The men donned the saffron robes of martyrdom and rode out from the fort to certain death and the women and children immolated themselves on a huge funeral pyre. After the visit, continue drive to Bundi. Arrive Pushkar and check in at Haveli Braj Bhushanjee. :: :: Day 11: Bundi ::After breakfast, visit Bundi. Visit the Taragarh Fort, which was built in 1354. Inside the fort are huge reservoirs carved out of solid rock and the Bhim Burj, the largest of the battlements, on which is mounted a famous cannon. Afternoon, free or take an excursion to Kota (39 kms from Bundi). :: :: Day 12: Bundi - Jaipur ::After breakfast, leave for Jaipur. Arrive Jaipur and check in at Heritage Hotel. :: :: Day 13: Jaipur ::After breakfast, excursion to Amber Fort. Elephant ride from the foothills of the Aravallis to the fort entrance. Amber Fort: At a distance of 11 kms from Jaipur, Amber was the ancient capital of Jaipur state. Construction of the fort began in 1592 by Raja Man Singh, the Rajput commander of Akbar's army and is a superb example of Rajput architecture. Afternoon, free for individual activities. Afternoon, city tour of Jaipur. Visit the City Palace which has museum having an extensive collection of art, carpets, enamel ware and weapons; Jantar Mantar - the observatory built my Maharaja Jai Singh in 1728 and the façade of Hawa Mahal. :: :: Day 14: Jaipur - Neemrana ::After breakfast, leave for Neemrana. Arrive Neemrana and check in at Neemrana Fort Palace. Rest of the day, free for individual activities. :: :: Day 15: Neemrana - Delhi ::After breakfast, leave for Delhi. Arrive Delhi and check in at prebooked hotel. Afternoon, city tour of New Delhi. Visit Humayun's Tomb: built in mid 16th century this is an early example of Mughal architecture; Qutab Minar, drive past India Gate, President House, Connaught Place. The tour ends with a visit to Laxmi Narayan Temple :: :: Day 16: Depart Delhi ::Transfer to the airport to board flight back home onward destination with sweet memories.

7 Days Tour with Golden Triangle ::Destination : Delhi, Jaipur, Agra and Delhi :: :: Day 01: Arrival Delhi ::On arrival meet and assist at the airport and transfer to prebooked hotel. Overnight at the hotel. :: :: Day 02: Delhi - Jaipur ::After breakfast, half-day city tour of Old Delhi. Visit Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Red Fort, which was also built by Shah Jehan. Rajghat - the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. Afternoon, leave for Jaipur. Arrive Jaipur and check in at prebooked hotel. :: :: Day 03: Jaipur ::After breakfast, excursion to Amber Fort. Elephant ride from the foothills of the Aravallis to the fort entrance. Amber Fort, Afternoon, city tour of Jaipur. Visit the City Palace which has museum having an extensive collection of art, carpets, enamel ware and weapons; Jantar Mantar - the observatory built my Maharaja Jai Singh in 1728 and the façade of Hawa Mahal. :: :: Day 04: Jaipur - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra ::After breakfast, leave for Agra. Enroute visit the abandoned Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri: built by Emperor Akbar in 1569, continue drive to Agra. Arrive Agra in the evening and check in at prebooked hotel. Overnight at the hotel. :: :: Day 05: Agra ::After breakfast, city tour of Agra. The highlight of the day - The Taj Mahal, which was constructed by Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Contraction of the Taj began in 1631 and was not completed until 1653. Visit Agra fort, which was built by Emperor Akbar in 1565, Afternoon, free for individual activities & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 06: Agra - Delhi ::After breakfast, leave for Delhi. Arrive Delhi and check in at prebooked hotel. Afternoon, city tour of New Delhi. Visit Humayun's Tomb: built in mid 16th century this is an early example of Mughal architecture; Qutab Minar, drive past India Gate, President House, Connaught Place. The city tour ends with a visit to Laxmi Narayan Temple (Birla Mandir). :: :: Day 07: Delhi to your further destination ::After breakfast transfer to the airport or railway station for your further destination :: :: Golden Triangle with Goa :: :: Duration: 10 Days ::Destination: Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Delhi and Goa :: :: Day 01: Arrival Delhi ::On arrival meet and assist at the airport and transfer to prebooked hotel. Overnight at the hotel. :: :: Day 02: Delhi - Jaipur ::After breakfast, half-day city tour of Old Delhi. Visit Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Red Fort, which was also built by Shah Jehan. Rajghat - the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. Afternoon, leave for Jaipur. Arrive Jaipur and check in at prebooked hotel. :: :: Day 03: Jaipur ::After breakfast, excursion to Amber Fort. Elephant ride from the foothills of the Aravallis to the fort entrance. Amber Fort, Afternoon, city tour of Jaipur. Visit the City Palace which has museum having an extensive collection of art, carpets, enamel ware and weapons; Jantar Mantar - the observatory built my Maharaja Jai Singh in 1728 and the façade of Hawa Mahal. :: :: Day 04: Jaipur - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra ::After breakfast, leave for Agra. Enroute visit the abandoned Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri: built by Emperor Akbar in 1569, continue drive to Agra. Arrive Agra in the evening and check in at prebooked hotel. Overnight at the hotel. :: :: Day 05: Agra ::After breakfast, city tour of Agra. The highlight of the day - The Taj Mahal, which was constructed by Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Contraction of the Taj began in 1631 and was not completed until 1653. Visit Red fort, which was built by Emperor Akbar in 1565, Afternoon, free for individual activities. :: :: Day 06: Agra - Delhi ::After breakfast, leave for Delhi. Arrive Delhi and check in at prebooked hotel. Afternoon, city tour of New Delhi. Visit Humayun's Tomb: built in mid 16th century this is an early example of Mughal architecture; Qutab Minar, drive past India Gate, President House, Connaught Place. The city tour ends with a visit to Laxmi Narayan Temple (Birla Mandir) & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 07: Delhi - Goa ::After breakfast transfer to the airport to board flight for Goa. On arrival in Goa meet and assist at the airport and transfer to prebooked hotel. Rest of the day free for individual activities & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 08: Goa ::Full day city tour of North & South Goa & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 09: Goa ::Day free to relax on the beach & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 10: Goa - Mumbai Delhi ::Transfer to the airport to board flight for Delhi or Mumbai. On arrival in Delhi Mumbai transfer to prebooked hotel. pur airport to board flight to Delhi. On arrival, transfer to international airport for onward flight. :: :: Golden Triangle with Ranthambore National Park :: :: Duration : 09 Days ::Destination : Delhi, Jaipur, Ranthambore, Agra and Delhi :: :: Day 01: Arrival Delhi ::On arrival meet and assist at the airport and transfer to prebooked hotel. Overnight at the hotel. :: :: Day 02: Delhi - Jaipur ::After breakfast, half-day city tour of Old Delhi. Visit Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Red Fort, which was also built by Shah Jehan. Rajghat - the cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi. Afternoon, leave for Jaipur. Arrive Jaipur and check in at prebooked hotel. :: :: Day 03: Jaipur ::After breakfast, excursion to Amber Fort. Elephant ride from the foothills of the Aravallis to the fort entrance. Amber Fort, Afternoon, city tour of Jaipur. Visit the City Palace which has museum having an extensive collection of art, carpets, enamel ware and weapons; Jantar Mantar - the observatory built my Maharaja Jai Singh in 1728 and the façade of Hawa Mahal. :: :: Day 04: Jaipur - Ranthambore National Park ::After breakfast leave for Ranthambore. Arrive Ranthambore and check in at prebooked hotel. Afternoon, excursion to the park in jeeps to view the wildlife. :: :: Day 05: Ranthambore National Park ::Morning and afternoon, excursion to the park in jeeps to view the wildlife. :: :: Day 06: Ranthambore - Fatehpur Sikri - Agra ::After breakfast, leave for Agra. Enroute visit the abandoned Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri: built by Emperor Akbar in 1569, continue drive to Agra. Arrive Agra in the evening and check in at prebooked hotel. Overnight at the hotel. :: :: Day 07: Agra ::After breakfast, city tour of Agra. The highlight of the day - The Taj Mahal, which was constructed by Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Construction of the Taj began in 1631 and was not completed until 1653. Visit Red fort, which was built by Emperor Akbar in 1565, Afternoon, free for individual activities. :: :: Day 08: Agra - Delhi ::After breakfast, leave for Delhi. Arrive Delhi and check in at prebooked hotel. Afternoon, city tour of New Delhi. Visit Humayun's Tomb: built in mid 16th century this is an early example of Mughal architecture; Qutab Minar, drive past India Gate, President House, Connaught Place. The city tour ends with a visit to Laxmi Narayan Temple (Birla Mandir). :: :: Day 09: Delhi to your further destination ::After breakfast transfer to the airport or railway station for your further destination.

Duration: 06 Days ::Destination: Bhubaneshwar, Puri, Konark :: :: Day 01: Bhubaneshwar ::Arrival at Railway station Airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to hotel. Arrive and check into hotel. In the afternoon take city tour covering Parasurameswara Temple: The state's oldest surviving temple, built in 650 A.D. Dhauli - A complex which has Emperor Ashoka's rock edicts, and dates back to 03rd sanctuary B. C. Lingarj Temple - This temple, of the 11th century A.D. is also a fine exponent of the architecture of this region, evening is leisure, Overnight to be spent at hotel. :: :: Day 02: Bhubaneshwar ::Full day excursion to Buddhist triangle of Udaigiri, Ratnagiri and Lalitgiri, eveninng enjoy the Classical dance programme. Overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 03: Bhubaneshwar - Puri ::Today we will drive to this pious Indian town. Arrive and check into hotel. Rest of the afternoon free to relax at beach. Overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 04: Puri ::Today we will see Famous temple of Lord Jagannath Puri (Maths Monasteries) there are around 150 Maths, located in narrow lanes, also visit Loknath Temple. Overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 05: Puri - Konark - Bhubaneshwar ::After breakfast drive to Bhubaneshwar, on route you will see famous Sun Temple at Konark - known as crowning glory of Orissa temple art. Arrive and check into hotel at Bhubaneshwar. Overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 06: Bhubaneshwar to your further destination ::Transfer to airport or railway station to take the flight train to onward destination. :: :: Temple Triangle with Lake :: :: Duration: 6 Days ::Destination: Bhubaneshwar, Konark, Puri, Chilka :: ::OR :: :: ::Temple Triangle with Sea :: :: Duration: 8 Days ::Destination: Bhubaneshwar, Konark, Puri, Chilka, Gopalpur :: ::The Sun Temple at Konark acted as a beacon for sailors for nearly a millennium while the great and architecturally astonishing temples of Bhubaneshwar and Puri have drawn pilgrims in millions. Meanwhile, holidaymakers have enjoyed Puri's broad sandy beaches. Over 2, 000 ago the fertile delta on which Bhubaneshwar stands, witnessed one of the most significant battles of India's history when Emperor Ashoka, having massacred his Kalingan opponents, converted to Buddhism and laid the foundations for one of the great empires of world history. :: :: Day 01: Arrival Bhubaneshwar ::Upon arrival at Bhubaneshwar you will be transferred to your hotel for a two-night stay. :: :: Day 02: In Bhubaneshwar ::This morning visit the 7th century Parasuramesvar Temple and the Lingaraja Temple the 10th century Muktesvara Temple & Rajarani Temple (11th century A.D). The afternoon is free for you to take an optional tour to ATRI (42 km) from Bhubaneshwar famous for its hot sulfur spring whose temperature remains at 55 C and supposedly curse skin disorders or NANDANKANAN (20 km) famous for Biosphere Reserve, lion safari, white tiger safari and ropeway. :: :: Day 03: Bhubaneshwar - Puri via Santi Stupa at Dhauli, Pipli & Konark ::This morning you will be driven to Konark (60 km), famous Sun Temple piece of Orissan architecture and sculpture, built in the 13 the century, the golden era of Orissan art, is poetry in stone and on the World. In route you visit Santi Stupa at Dhauli (4 km) built after the bloodshed at Kalinga. In route visit to Pipli (20 km) famous for Orissa handicrafts where you can purchase different type of handicrafts. Afternoon reach at Konark, after lunch visit to Konark Temple, evening arrival for Puri and transfer to hotel. Meals and overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 04: In Puri ::This morning see the Jagannath Temple. The afternoon is free and you may visit the long stretch of golden beach, shallow enough to walk out a long distance. Meals and overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 05: In Chilika (The Blue Lagoon) ::Morning arrival for Chilika (50 km), India biggest Inland Lake. ::Spread over 1, 100 square kilometers. Attraction within the lake, BIRDS ISLAND - A haven for resident and migratory birds, SATAPADA - An ideal place for viewing cavorting dolphins, BRAHAMAPURA - a place of scenic beauty. Evening return to Puri. Meals and overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 06: Depart Puri ::The morning returns to your homeward journey. :: :: OR :: :: Day 06: Puri - Gopalpur - on - Sea ::You will drive this morning to Gopalpur (160 km) - on - Sea where you will stay for two nights. An ancient seaport, it is one of most beautiful, unspoiled beaches. Today, it has a luxurious beach resort and offers excellent facilities for surfing and sailing. Warm with gentle sunshine, the golden beach is an ideal place to swim or laze around. :: :: Day 07: In Gopalpur -on - sea ::The full day is free. :: :: Day 08: Depart Gopalpur to Bhubaneshwar Puri ::Today embark on your journey back to Bhubaneshwar Puri and then homeward. :: :: Options tour : Bhubaneshwar - :: ::(a) Visit Udayagiri and Kandagiri Caves ::(b) Orissa State Museum & The Handicrafts Museum

Our new tour shall serve as the perfect Sabbatical for a holiday, as it encompasses the lush pastures, serene mountains, singing waterfalls, colorful bribes and city hubbub of Northeast India. The tour is no less in Grandeur or Authenticity than " The Golden Triangle" circuit of North India. The 3 points of " The Green Triangle" circuit being: :: :: Duration : 6 Days ::Destination : Guwahati - Shillong - Kaziranga :: ::Guwahati : The Gateway of North East India ::Shillong : The Perfect Rendezvous Hill Station. ::Kaziranga : Wild life and nature at its basic & true form. :: :: Day 01: Arrival at Guwahati, drive to Shillong ::After a brief welcome ceremony on arrival at Guwahati, drive on to Shillong (100 Kms - 3 Hours drive) stopping en-route at Barapani Umian Lake, a majestic placid lake with its surrounding sylvan hill. Overnight stay at hotel in Shillong. :: :: Day 02: Shillong sightseeing ::Morning sightseeing at Shillong, admire the beauty of Shillong also called " Scotland of East". It is the erstwhile capital of undivided Assam, present Northeast and home to the Khasi Highland tribes. Visit Elephanta Falls, Ward Lake, Hydari Park and Shillong Peak for some breathtaking views. Overnight stay at hotel in Shillong. :: :: Day 03: Shillong - Kaziranga ::After breakfast, drive to Kaziranga National Park (280 Kms - 6 hrs drive). Afternoon at leisure. Overnight stay at a Jungle Lodge in Kaziranga. :: :: Day 04: Kaziranga - Elephant and Jeep Safari ::Early morning explore the central Range of Kaziranga National Park on Elephant Safari. After breakfast again explore the Central Range on a Jeep Safari. Overnight stay at a Jungle Lodge in Kaziranga. :: :: Day 05: Kaziranga - Guwahati ::After an early breakfast, drive on to Guwahati (220 Kms - 4 hrs). In the afternoon take a city tour of this "Eastern City of Light". Evening sunset rive cruise on Mighty Barhmaputra. Overnight stay at hotel in Guwahati. :: :: Day 06: Depart ::Day at leisure till your departure.

Heaven on Earth Duration : 06 Days ::Destination : Srinagar, Sonamarg, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam :: :: Day 01: Delhi Jammu - Srinagar ::Transfer to Houseboat Hotel. Afternoon Shikara ride on the Dal lake, visiting floating vegetable gardens, Dinner and overnight at Hotel Houseboat. :: :: Day 02: Srinagar - Sonamarg ::Full day excursion to Sonamarg by car. The distance of about 87 kms. will be covered in about 3 and 12 hrs. time. Sonamarg lies in Sindh valley strewn with flowers and surrounded by mountains. Sonamarg is also the base for some interesting treks to high altitude Himalayan lakes. Drive back from Sonamarg and transfer to Dlx. Houseboat Hotel for dinner and overnight stay. :: :: Day 03: Srinagar ::Morning sightseeing of the Mughal Gardens, visiting Nishat Bagh built by Asaf Khan, the brother - in - law of Jehangir in 1632 A.D, and Shalimar Bagh built by Jehangir for his wife empress Nur Jahan. All the gardens are situated on the banks of the Dal Lake with the Zabarwan hills in the background. * En route the gardens, visit a carpet-weaving factory. * Lunch at Houseboat Hotel * Afternoon free * Dinner and overnight stay in Dlx. Houseboat Hotel :: :: Day 04: Srinagar - Gulmarg ::Full day trip to Gulmarg (The meadow of flowers) 2730 mts. above sea level. The distance of 56 kms. will be covered in about 2 and 12 hours drive. Gulmarg has on of the best ski slopes in the wild and one of the highest golf courses in the world with 18 holes. You can also enjoy a view of Nana Par bat if the weather permits. The view en route from Tangamarg to Gulmarg is fascinating. * A short trek up to Khilanmarg, which can be covered in about 3 hrs. is optional. * The Gondola lift for mountain rides is also available * Overnight stay in Gulmarg. :: :: Day 04: Gulmarg - Srinagar - Pahalgam ::After breakfast for Pahalgam via Srinagar. The distance of about 152 kms. Will be covered in about 5 hrs. En route, visit the saffron fields of Pampore, Awantipura Ruins (1100 years old temple of Lord Vishnu built by the King Awantivarman), and enjoy the beautiful countryside. Drive through the pine forest. Arrive at Pahalgam (the valley of shepherds) and transfer to Hotel. After lunch, walk along pony trails with a magnificent view of the mountains. Dinner and overnight stay in hotel at Pahalgam. :: :: Day 05: Stay at Pahalgam ::* Free for individual activities. * Visit Chandanwari or Aru on points :: :: Day 06: Pahalgam - Srinagar ::Drive back to Srinagar from Pahalgam and transfer to Dlx. Houseboat Hotel. After noon free for shopping etc. Diner and overnight stay in Dlx Houseboat Hotel. :: :: Day 07: Departure by Airport ::After breakfast, transfer to airport for the return flight.

Duration : 14 Days ::Destination : Delhi, Chandigarh, Shimla, Manali, Dharamsala, and Dalhousie :: :: Day 01: Arrive Delhi ::On arrival meet and assist at the airport and transfer to prebooked hotel. :: :: Day 02: Delhi - Chandigarh ::After breakfast, leave for Chandigarh. Arrive Chandigarh and check in at prebooked hotel. Afternoon, city tour of Chandigarh. :: :: Day 03: Chandigarh - Shimla ::After breakfast, leave for Shimla. Arrive Shimla and check in at prebooked hotel. Afternoon, free for individual activities. :: :: Day 04: Shimla ::After breakfast, excursion to Kufri. Enjoy a horse ride in the apple orchards. Afternoon, free to explore the area or visit the Mall road for shopping or other individual activities. :: :: Day 05: Shimla -Manali ::After breakfast, leave for Manali. Arrive Manali and check in at prebooked hotel. :: :: Day 06: Manali ::After breakfast, visit the ancient Hadimba temple and Clubhouse. Afternoon, free for shopping and other individual activities. :: :: Day 07: Manali ::After breakfast, excursion to Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley. :: :: Day 08: Manali - Dharamsala ::After breakfast, leave for Dharamsala. Arrive Dharamsala and check in at prebooked hotel. :: :: Day 09: Dharamsala ::After breakfast, visit Dharmasala & Mcleodganj. Afternoon, free. :: :: Day 10: Dharamsala - Dalhousie ::After breakfast, leave for Dalhousie. Enroute visit Kangra Fort and 3300 years old Jain Temple. Arrive Dalhousie and check in at prebooked hotel. :: :: Day 11: Dalhousie ::After breakfast, excursion to Khajjiar. At Khajjiar enjoy a breathtaking view of land covered with Pine trees. This place is also known as Mini Switzerland. After lunch, continue drive to Chamba. Return to Dalhousie for overnight stay. :: :: Day 12: Dalhousie - Chakkibank (Road), Chakkibank - Delhi (Overnight at Train) ::After breakfast, transfer to Chakkibank railway station to board overnight train for Delhi. Overnight at train. :: :: Day 13: Arrival Delhi ::On arrival in Delhi transfer to prebooked hotel. Rest of the day, free :: :: Day 14: Depart Delhi ::After breakfast, full day city tour of Old & New Delhi. In the evening, transfer to the airport to board flight back home.

A journey through two of India's most bewitching states, Gujarat and Rajasthan can turn out to be a life time experience if undertaken by Royal Orient - One of the most luxurious trains in India. And the journey itself is on the carriage of the past, to make your experience memorable throughout life. The Royal Orient Express recaptures for you the resplendence of the days of Kings and Queens; replicates their safaris and royal visits to neighboring kingdoms. As a tourist one will experience the mystic cultures of one of the world's oldest civilizations, its colorful customs, its bounteous nature, its enduring legends, its mysteries and its spirits. :: :: Royal Tour :: :: Day 01 : Wednesday-Delhi ::The journey begins from Delhi every Wednesday evening at 1500 hrs. from Delhi "Cantonment Railway Station". Evening Tea Dinner on board. Reporting time is 14.00 hrs. :: :: Day 02 : Thursday-Chittaurgarh- Udaipur ::Arrive Chittaurgarh- Udaipur at 0530 hrs. A tour to the glorious fort of Chittaurgarh is an unforgettable experience. As you drive on the 13 square kms fort, visit Palace of Queen Padmini, Peace and Victory Towers and witness several temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. ::The train departs for Udaipur and reaches at 1215 hrs. Udaipur is aptly called 'city of lakes'. One of the most romantic places in India, it is situated around the shimmering clear blue water lakes, which whisper the mood of a bygone era. :: :: Day 03 : Friday- Mehsana, Ahmedabad ::0645 hrs - Arrival at Mehsana. At Mehsana visit Sun temple at Modhera and Patola Weaving center at Patan. At 115 hrs - Departure for Ahmedabad. The city of Ahmedabad is a colorful city where one can enjoy the better things of life, be it food or amusement. The Walled City in Ahmedabad takes one down the memory lane, making one aware of the city's glorious past. :: :: Day 04: Saturday- Sasan Gir ::You reach Sasangir at 0800 hrs. Sasangir has the distinction of being the last earthly refuge of the Asiatic lion. In the paisley-shaped Kathiwad peninsula of Gujarat stands the Gir National Park and Lion Sanctuary, the one and only remaining habitat of this proud and majestic species (Panthera leo). :: :: Day 05: Sunday - Palitana ::Morning at Palitana, the next stop is at Sarkhej, famous for the traditional Vishalla Village. All meals on board the Royal Orient. :: :: Day 06: Monday- Udaipur ::The city of Dawn, Udaipur is a lovely land around the azure water lakes, hemmed in by the lush hills of the Aravalis. A vision in white drenched in romance and beauty. Udaipur is a fascinating blend of sights, sounds and experiences an inspiration for the imagination of poets, painters and writers. Several places of interest around Udaipur, with an interesting excursion to Ranakpur. After lunch, you can visit the Shilpgram Craft Village and then continue for Jaipur. :: :: Day 07: Tuesday- Jaipur ::At 0750 hrs, you reach Jaipur-the capital of Rajasthan. Jaipur is the most colourful city in India, with it's famous pink coloured buildings, museum, observatory, Palace of Winds and the colorful bazaar. To explore the city, an air-conditioned coach takes you to Hawa Mahal or the palace of winds, which is a remarkable five storey building along the main street of the old city in pink splendor with semi octagonal and delicate honey combed sandstone windows. :: :: Day 08: Wednesday ::You reach Delhi at 0700 hrs and your journey ends here. :: :: Palace On Wheels :: :: Day 01: Wednesday - Delhi ::The tour starts in the evening with a ceremonial welcome aboard the Palace on Wheels at Delhi Cantonment. It is followed by an introduction to fellow travelers. Dinner will be served on board the two restaurants. The train departs from Delhi at 17.45 hrs. :: :: Day 02: Thursday - Jaipur ::The first stop of the Palace on Wheels is Jaipur, the land of Maharajas, magnificent Palaces and impressive forts. One of the most well planned cities of the world. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II founded this capital city of Rajasthan, popularly known as the Pink City, in 1727. You start at the Hawa Mahal and explore many places in Jaipur. The train departs from the pink city at 17.30 hrs. :: :: Day 03: Friday - Jaisalmer ::Arrive at 06.15 hrs at Jaisalmer. Spend the day in this isolated, but Architecturally, one of the greatest Royal Bastions of the World. After a safari dinner served under the stars, at a campsite, come back to the train to resume your journey. Departure is at 23.30 hrs. :: :: Day 04: Saturday - Jodhpur ::You reach Jodhpur at 08.00hrs. In Jodhpur, you visit Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan Palace etc. Departure, after unwinding and relaxing at the palace, is at 15.30 hrs. :: :: Day 05: Sunday - Sawai Madhopur ::Arrive at 04.00 hrs, steam into Sawai Madhopur, to spend the day in the wilds of Ranthambhor- home to the Royal Bengal Tiger. Since the best time to visit the park is early morning, the train arrives at 04.00 hrs, and leaves for its destination, Chittaurgarh at 11.00 hrs. Arrival at Chittaurgarh at 15.30 hrs. Chittaurgarh is India's most valorous fort, its history an unending saga of passion, chivalry and romance. :: :: Day 06: Monday - Chittaurgarh and Udaipur ::Arrive at 07.30 hrs, Chittaurgarh and Udaipur, the capitals of the Sisodia Maharanas, enjoy preeminence among the Rajput clans of Rajasthan. Spend the day sight seeing at Udaipur. Lunch is at Lake Palace, the beautiful island palace built as a summer resort by the royal family, and now converted into one of the world's finest hotels. The train departs again at 20.00 hrs, and dinner will be served on board. :: :: Day 07: Tuesday - Bharatpur and Agra ::Arrive at 06.00 hrs at a royal kingdom where the Jats, rather than the Rajputs, ruled. Here, you visit Lohargarh, or Iron Fort, Bharatpur Sanctuary. After visiting the sanctuary in the morning, visitors travel by couch to Fatehpur Sikri. From here to Agra, to visit The Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal is the perfect finale to your Royal Sojourn. :: :: Day 08: Wednesday - Delhi ::You're back in Delhi as early as 06.00 hrs where, after breakfast on board the train, you descend to the humdrum existence of modern life, with only royal memories to retain for the rest of your lifetime. :: :: Fairy Queen :: :: Day 01: Saturday- Delhi Cantt ::1000 hrs. A train leaves Delhi Cantonment Station ::1030 hrs. Light snacks on Board ::1300 hrs. Lunch on Board ::1500 hrs. Light refreshments on Board ::1600 hrs. Arrival Railway Station ::1620 hrs. Arrival Alwar by air-conditioned coach ::1730 hrs. Arrival Hotel Tiger Den ::1930 hrs. Theme dinnerNight Stay at Hotel :: :: Day 02: Sunday- Sariska ::0630 hrs. Jeep safari for Tiger Sanctuary ::0930 hrs. Return from Sanctuary & breakfast at Tiger Den Hotel ::1200 hrs. Departure Sariska by air-conditioned coach. ::1245 hrs. Arrival Alwar Railway Station ::1300 hrs. Fairy Queen leaves Alwar ::1320 hrs. Lunch on Board ::1600 hrs. Light Refreshment on Board ::1845 hrs. Fairy Queen arrives Delhi Cantonment Station

You would like to visit Taj Mahal, Kingdom of Mughal, Rajputana Glories, legendary Hindu temples, Stupas, Explore with nature, it's all there when you are on following this tour programme :: :: Duration : 14 Days ::Destination : Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Gwalior, Khajuraho, Varanasi, Kathmandu :: :: :: Day 01: Arrival Delhi ::On arrival, you will be met by our representative & transferred to hotel, where we will be holding the rooms on ready occupancy basis. After traditional welcome, check in into hotel. Overnight to be spent at hotel. :: :: Day 02: Delhi ::Morning enjoy the full day sightseeing of local sight seeing including Birla Temple, Qutab Minar, India Gate, President House, Jama Masjid, Red Fort and Raj Ghat & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 03: Delhi - Jaipur ::Morning drive to Jaipur on the way visit Amber fort, evening enjoy the Folk Dance & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 04: Jaipur ::Jaipur local sight seeing Janter-Manter, Hawa Mahal (Wind Palace), city palace & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 05: Jaipur - Agra ::Drive to Agra on the way visit Fatehpur Sikri, The Taj Mahal, Red Fort & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 06: Agra - Gwalior ::Agra to Gwalior visits Gwalior fort and City palace of Gwalior & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 07: Gwalior - Khajuraho ::Gwalior to Khajuraho, on the way Visit Orchha Temples and Place & overnight at Hotel. :: :: Day 08: Khajuraho - Varanasi ::Khajuraho Half Day Temple sights seeing in the after noon flight to Varanasi & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 09: Varanasi ::In the morning Boat ride in Ganga and visit tamales in afternoon we go to Sarnath where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Visit some Buddhist Temples and free time & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day10: Varanasi - Kathmandu ::After noon Varanasi to Kathmandu (By flight) after check in visit & overnight at. :: :: Day 11: Kathmandu ::Trip to Villages in Himalayas Sawayambhu Nath, Pashupati Nath, Patan, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Hanuman Dhoka, Kumari temple & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 12: Kathmandu ::Rest of sight seeing Bhakta Pur, and temples, which are near the Kathmandu & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 13: Kathmandu - Delhi ::Time to take mountain flight (optional) to have view of highest peak of the world Mt Everest, after noon fly to Delhi & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 14: Delhi ::After breakfast rest of the sightseeing and free time at busy bazaars of Delhi, evening transfer to airport and fly with sweet memories to you're further destination.

Duration : 23 Days ::Destination : Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Trichy, Madurai, Periyar, Cochin, Ooty, Mysore, Bangalore, Hassan, Hospet (Hampi), Badami, Goa, Mumbai :: :: Day 01: Arrival Chennai ::On arrival meet and assist at the airport and transfer to hotel, overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 02: Chennai - Kanchipuram - Mahabalipuram ::After breakfast, sightseeing of Chennai including of Fort Museum, Marina Beach, San Thome cathedral. Afternoon, leave for Mahabalipuram. Enroute visit Kanchipuram - (64 km from Chennai) ancient capital of the Pallavas, famous as a city of 1000 temples that still has 124 shrines. The first temple dedicated to Shiva was built in the 7th & 8th century & has painting on the walls. Temples of Ekambaswara, Kailasnatha, Sri Kamakshi & Vardarajaewamy are of interest. Kanchipuram is also famous for its silk. On arrival in Mahabalipuram check into at your prebooked hotel. :: :: Day 03: Mahabalipuram ::After breakfast, visit Mahabalipuram, which was the main port of the Pallava dynasty & has exquisite Rock-cut monuments, monolithic structures & Bas-reliefs. It is also a beach resort. :: :: Day 04: Mahabalipuram - Pondicherry ::After breakfast, leave for Pondicherry. On arrival check in at hotel. Afternoon, sightseeing of Pondicherry, which was formerly a French Colony. Settled early in the 18th century Pondicherry became part of the Indian Union in the early 50s when the French voluntarily relinquished control. The main attraction here is the Aurobindo Ashram, which was founded by Sri Aurobindo in 1926. The ashram is one of the most popular in India with westerners, and is also one of the most affluent. Also to be visited is the Pondicherry Museum, which has a well, displayed variety of exhibits ranging from French furniture to this history of bead making. :: :: Day 05: Pondicherry - Tanjore ::After breakfast, leave for Tanjore. On arrival check in at hotel. Afternoon, visit Tanjore (Thanjavur) that was the ancient capital of Chola kings. Visit the Brihadishwara temple, which was built by Raja and is termed as the crowning glory of Chola temple architecture. This temple is one of the monuments in India with World Heritage listing. Also visit the Thanjavur Palace, which was constructed in 1550 and has huge corridors, spacious halls, observation and arsenal towers. :: :: Day 06: Tanjore - Trichy - Sri Rangam - Madurai ::After breakfast, leave for Madurai. Enroute visit the Rock Fort Temple in Trichy (Tiruchirapalli) and the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam - This superb temple complex is surrounded by seven concentric walls with 21 gopurams and is probably the largest in India. Most of it dates back from 14th to 17th centuries. The largest gopuram was completed as recently as 1987, and now measures an astounding 73 metre. After visiting Srirangam, continue drive to Madurai. Arrive Madurai and check in at hotel. :: :: Day 07: Madurai ::After breakfast, visit Madurai - one of the oldest cities in South India and has been a centre of learning & pilgrimage for centuries. Visit Madurai's main attraction - Sri Meenakshi temple that attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over India. The temple is named after the daughter of a Pandyan King. Designed in 1560 by Vishwanatha Nayak, the present temple was substantially built during the reign of Tirumalai Nayak (1623-55 AD), but its history goes back 2000 years to the time when Madurai was the capital of Pandya Kings. :: :: Day 08: Madurai - Periyar ::After breakfast, leave for Periyar (Thekkady). On arrival in Periyar check in at your prebooked hotel. Afternoon, game viewing at the wild life park. :: :: Day 09: Periyar - Kottayam - Alleppey - Cochin ::After breakfast, leave for Cochin. Enroute disembark from the vehicle at Kottayam to do a very pleasant stretch up to Alleppey in boats on the backwaters of Kerala. At Alleppey board our carcoach, which awaits you to drive you to Cochin. On arrival in Cochin check in at your prebooked hotel. :: :: Day 10: Cochin ::After breakfast, visit Cochin - the city of lagoons. Visit the St. Francis Church, India's oldest European Church was constructed in 1503 by Portuguese; Chinese Fishing Nets, strung out along the top of Fort Cochin; Mattancherry Palace or The Dutch Palace, Afternoon, free for individual activities. In the evening, witness Kathakali Dance Show. :: :: Day 11: Cochin - Ooty ::After breakfast, leave for Ooty a beautiful Hill station on South India, afternoon reaching to hotel, full day leisure for personal actives and boating at Lake overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 12: Ooty - Mysore ::After breakfast drive to Mysore. Afternoon, visit the magnificent city on the foothills of Mount Chamundi. Visit the Mysore Palace; also known as the Amba Vilas Palace, this palace was the seat of the Maharajas of Mysore. Burnt down in 1897, the present one was completed in 1912, at a cost of Rs. 4.2 million; Chamundi Hill - overlooking Mysore from 1062m summit of the hill is the Sri Chamuneswari temple and the Brindavan Gardens. :: :: Day 13: Mysore - Banglore ::After breakfast, leave for Banglore, Afternoon, city tour of Bangalore - "city of gardens". Visit, the Vidhan Sudha - It houses the State's Legislature and Secretariat, Nandi Temple - One of the oldest temple, popularly known as the Bull temple and overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 14: Bangalore - Hassan ::After breakfast, leave for Hassan, enroute visiting Sravanabelagola, one of the oldest and most important Jain pilgrimage centers in India, and the site of the 17m high statue of Gomateshwara, said to the world's tallest monolithic statue - an important Jain religious centre - a colossal Gomateshwara statue. Arrive Hassan & check in at hotel. ::Afternoon, excursion to Hoysala Temples of Halebid & Belur (16 Kms). Visit the Hoysaleswara Temple at Halebid, which is the most outstanding example if Hoysala art built at 12th century. At Belur, visit the Channekeshava temple is the only one at the three Hoysala sites still in daily use. :: :: Day 15: Hassan - Hospet (Hampi) ::After breakfast, leave for Hospet, arrive at Hospet and check into hotel and overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 16: Hospet ::After breakfast, excursion to Hampi. Hampi the once beautiful capital city of Vijaynagar Empire. Some of the interesting ruins remaining are the Virupaksha, Vittala and Hazara Rama Temples, huge Ganesha & Narasimha images, the elephant stables, the queen's bath, and carvings on the Ramachandra Temple & Lotus Mahal overnight at Hospet. :: :: Day 17: Hospet - Badami ::After breakfast, leave for Badami only 150 kms from Hampi. Enroute we stop at Aihole, which was the Chalukyan regional capital between the 4th & 6th centuries. There are over 70 structures in and around and the more important structures include the Ladkhan temple, Kulinguidi & Durgigude Temples. Continue drive towards Badami. Enroute stop at Pattadakal, the second capital of Badami Chalukyans, Pattadakal reached the height of its glory during the 7th and 8th centuries. The most important monument here is the Lokeshwara or Virupaksha temple that narrates episodes from the Hindu epics, the Ramayana and Mahabharata. After the visit continue drive to Badami. Arrive Badami and check in at hotel. :: :: Day 18: Badami ::After breakfast, visit Badami which was once the capital city of the Chalukyan empire which ruled much of the Central Deccan between the 4th and 8th centuries A.D. Badami is best known for its cave temples, cut into the cliff face of the red sandstone hill and are dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, & Lord Buddha. There's one temple that will definitely take your breath away for the serenity of its location, it is the Bhutana temple on the tank's east bank. Afternoon is leisure & overnight stay at hotel. :: :: Day 19: Badami -Goa ::After breakfast, leave for Goa. Arrive Goa and check in at hotel. :: :: Day 20: Goa ::After breakfast, full day tour of North & South Goa & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 21: Goa ::Day free for individual activities & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 22: Goa - Mumbai (Train) ::After breakfast, free. In the afternoon, transfer to the railway station to board train for Mumbai. Arrive Mumbai and transfer to hotel. :: :: Day 23: Mumbai ::After breakfast, city tour of Mumbai - the capital city of the state Maharashtra and is the economic powerhouse of India. Visit the Gateway of India, Price of Wales Museum, Elephanta caves and Buddha images; Marine Drive, which runs along the shoreline, starting at Nariman Point and up to Malabar Hill; Hanging Gardens, evening departure to Airport for your further destination.

Temples, Forts & Beaches :: :: Duration: 18 Days ::Destination: Kolkata, Bhubaneshwar, Konark, Puri, Hyderabad, Bidar, ::Gulbarga, Bijapur, Badami, Hampi, Goa, Mumbai :: :: Day 01: Arrival at Kolkata Delhi ::On arrival in Kolkata, meet and assist at the airport & transfer to prebooked hotel. :: :: Day 02: Kolkata Delhi - Bhubaneshwar (Flight) ::After breakfast, city tour of Kolkata. In the afternoon, city tour of Calcutta, the "City of Joy". Visit the High Court Building, built in 1872 and the oldest Catholic Church in Calcutta, St. Mary's. The Howrah Bridge, built in 1943 - the bridge is crossed by approximately two million people everyday; the Botanical Gardens, the oldest and largest of their kinds in India; Victoria Memorial: The majestic Victoria memorial, symbol of Calcutta was built between 1906 and 1921 at a cost of Rs. 7.5 million and is a reminder of the might of British India. It has been compared to Taj Mahal, with its four rudimentary minarets, gleaming white dome and exterior of solid Marcrana marble. Lord Curzon as both tribute to Queen Victoria and a triumphant depiction of her reign in India conceived it. Afternoon, transfer to the airport to board flight for Bhubaneshwar. On arrival transfer to prebooked hotel. :: :: Day 03: Bhubaneshwar ::After breakfast, full day city tour Bhubaneshwar, known, as Kalinga in ancient times is the capital of Orissa. At one time, some 7000 sandstone temples are supposed to have stood on the site of sacred Bindusagar Lake alone. Today almost 500 remain. Most of them were built between 7th and 15th centuries and most of them were destroyed during the Mughal conquest of 16th century. Visit the Brahmeshwar temple, built in 11th century; Rajarani temple; Mukteshwar temple: one of the most refined temples in Orissa. Small and compact it is famous for both its ornate entrance and rich interior carvings; Parumeshwar temple: built in 12th century and the Lingaraj Temple: built in 11th century, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva as Lord Lingaraj (Lord of Universe), is one of the most notable temples. :: :: Day 04: Bhubaneshwar - Konark - Puri ::After breakfast, visit leave for Puri. Enroute visit the Sun Temple at Konark. Built by King Narasimhadev in mid 13th century to celebrate his victory over the Muslims. It is a masterpiece of design and construction; built in the shape of huge chariot, pulled along by seven racing horses on 24 intricately carved stone wheels. Continue drive to Puri. Arrive Puri and check in at prebooked hotel. :: :: Day 05: Puri ::After breakfast, visit Puri - one of the four Dhams (holiest Hindu pilgrimage places in India). Visit the Jaganath Temple, which was built during the 12th century by the Kalinga ruler Chodaganga Deva, is the tallest and most magnificent monuments in Orissa. It's pinnacle rises to a formidable height of 65 m (212 ft). It is divided into four parts: the main central hall, the hall of audience, the dancing hall and the hall of offerings, and has four gates. Each of these has an animal theme: horse (south gate), elephant (north gate), tiger (west gate) and the lion (east gate). It is by the Lions gate that the pilgrims make their entrance and in front of this main gate stands a 16-sided monolithic pillar called Aruna Stambha. Afternoon, relax at Puri, a beautiful beach resort along with the Bay of Bengal. :: :: Day 06: Puri - Bhubaneshwar - Hyderabad ::After lunch, leave for Bhubaneshwar to board flight Hyderabad at 1925 hrs. Arrive Hyderabad at 2100 hrs & transfer to prebooked hotel. Hyderabad, is the capital of the state of Andhra Pradesh, Hyderabad is an important center of Islamic culture and central India's counterpart to Mughal splendors of the northern cities of Delhi, Agra and Fatehpur Sikri. Most of the impressive monuments date from the 16th and 17th centuries and the city retains much of its 19th century atmosphere. The city was founded in 1590 by Muhammad Quli, the founder of Qutab Shahi kings who ruled this part of the Deccan from 1512 to 1687, when Aurangzeb defeated the last king. :: :: Day 07: Hyderabad ::After breakfast, visit the Charminar, built by Mohammad Quli Qutab Shah in 1591 to commemorate the end of plague in Hyderabad; Mecca Masjid, is one of the largest mosques in the world and is said to accommodate up to 10, 000 worshippers; Salar Jung Museum, which contains 35, 000 exhibits from all corners of the world and includes sculptures, woodcarvings, religious objects, Persian miniature painting, illuminated manuscripts, armour and weaponry. Also on display are the swords, daggers of Mughal emperors and of Tipu Sultan; Golconda Fort, which dates from the time of Qutab Shahi kings (16th to 17th centuries) and is one of the most magnificent fortress complexes in India. Golconda remained the capital until 1590, when the court was moved to the new city of Hyderabad; tomb of Adil Shahi Kings, which are surrounded by landscaped gardens and number of them has beautifully carved stonework. of Nawabs. :: :: Day 08: Hyderabad - Bidar -Gulbarga ::After breakfast, leave for Gulbarga enroute visiting Bidar which was once the capital of Bahmani kingdom from 1428. The town has a splendid 15th century fort having Ranjeen Mahal, Chini Mahal & Turkish Mahal palaces. Continue drive to Gulbarga. Arrive Gulbarga and check in at prebooked hotel. Later, visit Gulbarga, which was the capital of Bahmani Kingdom from 1347 until its transfer in 1428. Gulbarga's old fort has number of interesting buildings. The town also has a number of imposing tombs of Bahmani kings, a shrine to a Muslim saints and the Sharana Basaveshwara temple. :: :: Day 09: Gulbarga - Bijapur ::After breakfast, leave for Bijapur. On arrival in Bijapur check in at your prebooked hotel. In the afternoon, visit Bijapur, known as the Agra of the South. Visit the Gol Gumbaz, it is the mausoleum of Mohammed Adil Shah and was built in 1659; Ibrahim Roza, which was constructed at the height of Bijapur prosperity by Ibrahim Adih Shah; Jama Masjid, also constructed by Adil Shah and the Citadel. :: :: Day 10: Bijapur - Badami ::After breakfast, leave for Badami - the town best know for cave temples. On arrival in Badami, check in at your prebooked hotel. Afternoon, visit Badami which was once the capital city of the Chalukyan empire which ruled much of the Central Deccan between the 4th and 8th centuries A.D. Badami is best known for its cave temples, cut into the cliff face of the red sandstone hill and connected by flights of steps. They display the full range of religious sects, which have grown up on Indian soil. Two of them are dedicated to Vishnu; one to Siva and the fourth is a Jain temple. There's also one natural cave, which is a Buddhist temple :: :: Day 11: Badami -Hospet ::After breakfast, leave for Hospet. Enroute stop at Pattadakal, the second capital of Badami Chalukyans, Pattadakal reached the height of its glory during the 7th and 8th centuries. The most important monument here is the Lokeshwara or Virupaksha temple that narrates episodes from the Hindu epics, the Ramayana and Mahabharata. After the visit, continue drive to Hospet. We again stop to visit Aihole, which was the Chalukyan regional capital between the 4th & 6th centuries. There are over 70 structures in and around and the more important structures include the Ladkhan temple, Kulinguidi & Durgigude Temples. Continue drive towards Hospet. After the visit continue drive to Badami. :: :: Day 12: Hospet ::After breakfast, excursion to Hampi. Hampi the once beautiful capital city of Vijaynagar Empire was greater than Rome and had palaces; temple and sculptures spread all over. The Sultanates of South razed the city to the ground in the year 1565 AD. Some of the interesting ruins remaining are the Virupaksha, Vittala and Hazara Rama Temples, huge Ganesha & Narasimha images, the elephant stables, the queen's bath, and carvings on the Ramachandra Temple & Lotus Mahal. :: :: Day 13: Hospet - Goa ::After breakfast, leave for Goa - the land of white churches, golden sands & green fields. Goa is a fascinating beach resort on the Arabian Sea & is very popular with Europeans since 1510, when Alhuquerque overwhelmed Goa & it became the capital of Portuguese empire in the east. :: :: Day 14: Goa ::Full day city tour of North & South Goa. :: :: Day 15: Goa ::At leisure by the beach or action in various water sports. :: :: Day 16: Goa - Mumbai (Train) ::After breakfast, free. In the afternoon, transfer to the railway station to board train for Mumbai. Arrive Mumbai and transfer to prebooked hotel. :: :: Day 17: Mumbai ::After breakfast, city tour of Mumbai - the capital city of the state Maharashtra and is the economic powerhouse of India. Visit the Gateway of India, which was conceived following the visit of King George V in 1911 and officially opened in 1924; Price of Wales Museum, designed in Indo Saracenic style and has sections for arts and paintings, archeology, natural history and an interesting collection of miniature paintings, bas relief's from the Elephanta caves and Buddha images; Marine Drive, which runs along the shoreline, starting at Nariman Point and up to Malabar Hill; Hanging Gardens, laid out in 1881 these formally laid out gardens have a notable collection of hedges shaped like animals free. In the afternoon, transfer to the railway station to board train for Mumbai. :: :: Day 18: Departure Mumbai ::Transfer to airport to board flight back home onward destination.

If you really want to visit India go for this because of one itinerary give ::you all seven color of India ::Heritage India :: :: Duration : 18 Days ::Destination : Delhi, Varanasi, Khajuraho, Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Udaipur, ::Aurangabad, Ajanta, Elora, Bombay :: :: Tour Summery : :: :: Day 01: Delhi ::Arrive Delhi by international flight. Meeting and assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 02: Delhi ::Morning after breakfast enjoy sightseeing of Old and New Delhi, including of Red Fort, Raj Ghat, Birla Temple, Qutab Minar, Lotus Temple, Humayun tomb, India Gate and President House in the night departure to further destination. :: :: Day 03: Delhi - Varanasi ::Morning after breakfast transfer to Airport and fly to Varanasi, check into hotel and enjoy the sightseeing afternoon go to Sarnath where Lord Buddha delivered His first sermon and visit some Buddhist Temples & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 04: Varanasi - Khajuraho ::Visit In the morning Boat ride in Ganga and visit temples, afternoon fly to Khajuraho. After lunch, visit Classical Temples from Chandella Style illustrated with remarkable sculptures from the ::KAMA SUTRA . :: :: Day 05: Khajuraho ::Morning visits Jain temples of the same period and introduction to the Jain Religion. Afternoon optional excursion in jeeps to Panna National Park, overnight at Jungle Resort. :: :: Day 06: Khajuraho - Orchha ::Morning drive to Orchha. Visit Jahangir Mahal Palace. Drive to Jhansi to take a train to Agra & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 07: Agra ::Sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal. After breakfast visit Agra Fort. Introduction to Indo-Persian architecture of the Timurid Dynasty & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 08: Agra - Fatehpur Sikri - Jaipur ::Morning visits Itmad-ud-Daulah, the first white marble inlaid grave in pure Indo-Persian style. Afternoon drive to Jaipur. :: :: Day 09: Jaipur ::Full day sightseeing including Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal. There will be opportunities to visit block-printing factory, gem cutting, carpet factory, silk shops & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 10: Jaipur - Udaipur ::Morning transfer to airport and fly to Udaipur, afternoon enjoy the sightseeing of City Palace and its Museum. Introduction to the world of miniature paintings; boat ride on Pichola Sagar Lake. Visit Saheliyon Ki Bari, Ladies Garden. Special dinner and presentation of old Mughal, Rajput, Jain, Deccani paintings. :: :: Day 13: Udaipur (Ranakpur Temples) ::Excursion to the Ranakpur Temples. Lunch at Maharani Bagh (Mango Orchard of the Maharaja of Jodhpur) near the Temples & overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 14: Aurangabad ::Morning fly from Udaipur-Bombay-Aurangabad & transfer to hotel, evening at leisure and overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 15: Ajanta ::Full day excursion to Ajanta, visit of the Buddhist and Brahmanical caves. :: :: Day 16: Elora ::Visit the most extraordinary freestanding monolithic temple (there are only two of these in India), the Kailashanatha Temple, with unique carvings of the Ramayana and Vishnupurana. Fly to Mumbai & transfer to hotel. :: :: Day 17: Bombay ::Morning visit Prince of Wales Museum, the largest Fine Art Museum in India and Hanging Gardens. Afternoon cruise to Elephanta Caves and overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 18: Bombay to your further destination ::Till to afternoon is leisure then transfer to airport for your further destination.

Itinerary : 19 Days 18 Night :: ::Tour Summery: :: ::DAY 1: Arrival at Delhi Airport transfers to Hotel On at Hotel. :: DAY 2: Delhi - Jaipur, On at hotel. :: DAY 3: Jaipur, On at Hotel. :: DAY 4: Jaipur to Agra, with Fathepur Sikri, On at Hotel. :: DAY 5: Agra On at Hotel. :: DAY 6: Agra to Gwalior, On at Hotel. :: DAY 7: Gwalior-Khajuraho, with Orchha on the way, On at hotel. :: DAY 8: Khajuraho, On at hotel. :: DAY 9: Khajuraho -Varanasi, On at hotel. :: DAY10: Varanasi On at hotel. :: DAY 11: Varanasi - Nepal border, On at hotel. :: DAY 12: Nepal Border - Chitwan On at hotel. :: DAY 13: Chitwan - Pokhra On at hotel. :: DAY 14: Pokhra, On at Hotel. :: DAY 15: Drive Pokhra to Kathmandu on the way visit Sawayambhu Nath temple On a hotel. :: DAY 16: Kathmandu local sight seeing Bhaktapur, Bodhanath, and Pashupati Nath On at hotel. :: DAY 17: Kathmandu rest sight seeing Patan, Darbar Square, and On at hotel. :: DAY 18: Kathmandu - Delhi by flight On at hotel. :: DAY 19: Delhi SS and Departure to your onward destination after dinner. :: ::Exclude : Video Camera, Still camera, Insurance, Alcohol, Mineral water, Laundry, Phone, Tips and Other expenses of personal nature, which are not mention in the plan.

Roof Top Drive ::Destination: Leh, Lamayuru, Tsomoriri, Khardongla ::Duration: 7 Days :: :: Day 01: Leh ::Arrival at Leh airport, received by our representative and transfer to Hotel. Check in to the hotel. Complete rest for the day after welcome tea and coffee by Hotel. Lunch at 2.00 P.M after lunch, a walk around Leh town includes a visit to Leh Market, Leh Palace or Sankar monastery. Overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 02: Leh - Alchi ::Leh to Alchi (62 Kms.). After breakfast drive to Alchi Enroute visit Basgo Palace and Liker monastery. Arrive Alchi by afternoon Check in to Uley Ethnic Resort. Visit Alchi monastery and spend rest of the day exploring the Alchi village. Overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 03: Alchi - Leh ::After breakfast, checkout from the hotel and drive to Lamayuru monastery. Afternoon drive back to Leh. :: :: Day 04: Leh - Tsomoriri ::Leh Dep. 0700 Hrs. Drive for Tsomoriri Lake (240 Kms. Approx.) VIA push, Chumathang (Hot Spring). Tsomoriri Arr. 1600 Hrs. Build up you Tent. Afterwards take a walk around and Lake to enjoy the scenic beauty. On at hotel. :: :: Day 05: Tsomoriri - Leh ::Dep. 1000 Hrs. After a leisurely breakfast walk around the lake and drive to back to Leh. On at Hotel. :: :: Day 06: Leh - Khardongla - Leh ::After breakfast drive to Khardongla pass and back to Leh by afternoon. After lunch rest of the day free to explore local market. On in hotel. :: :: Day 07: Leh to further destination ::Leh to further destination with sweet memories.

Tour no. 1 :: ::Duration : 18 Days ::Destination : Kailash - Manasarovar Yatra :: :: Day 1 : Arrival at Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel :: Day 2 : Half day sight-seeing On at Hotel. :: Day 3 : Half day sightseeing PM: drive to Dhulikhel :: Day 4 : Early morning drive to Nyalam :: Day 5 : Day free at Nyalam for acclimatization :: Day 6 : Drive about 225 Kms to saga (4300m) :: Day 7 : Drive 260 Kms to Paryang (4540m) :: Day 8 : Drive 265 Kms to Mansarovar (4530m) :: Day 9 : Drive around Lake Mansarovar :: Day 10 : Drive to Darchen :: Day 11 : Trek Diraphuk, (Kailash Parikarma) :: Day 12 : Trek to Zuthulpuk climb over (5637m) :: Day 13 : Trek about only 6 kms down and drive to Hor :: Day 14 : Drive to Paryang :: Day 15 : Drive to Saga :: Day 16 : Drive to Nyalam :: Day 17 : Drive back to Kathmandu :: Day 18 : Fly back to your onward destination. :: :: Helicopter Tour no. 2 :: ::Duration : 10 Night 11 Days ::Destination : holy Mt. Kailash & Lake Mansarovar :: :: Day 01 : Arrival to Kathmandu transfer to hotel :: Day 02 : Full day sightseeing, and evening shopping :: Day 03 : Fly to Nepalgunj Similo Guest house :: Day 04 : Fly to Hilsa by Helicopter and drive to Purang :: Day 05 : Drive to Mansarovar and Parikarma by Jeep :: Day 06 : Drive to Darchen Room Mt. Kailash and On at guesthouse :: Day 07 : Trek to Dira-Phuk Monastery & On stay at guest house camp :: Day 08 : Trek to Zuthul-Phuk Monastery & On stay at guest house camp :: Day 09 : Half - day trek to Darchen and drive to Purang & On guesthouse :: Day 10 : Drive back to Nepalgunj and to Kathmandu by plane :: Day 11 : Drive to Airport and fly to your onward destination

Pushkar Festival Tour :: ::Duration : 7 Days ::Destination : Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Pushkar, Jaipur and Delhi :: :: Day 01: Delhi ::Arrive Delhi by international flight. Meeting and assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi. :: :: Day 02: Delhi-Agra ::Drive to Agra and on arrival, check-in at the hotel. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Agra and Taj Mahal. :: :: Day 03: Agra-Jaipur ::Drive to Jaipur visiting enroute Fatehpur Sikri. On arrival, check-in at the hotel. :: :: Day 04: Jaipur ::Mornings visit Amber Fort and elephant ride to ascend the fort. Afternoon city sightseeing tour. :: :: Day 05: Jaipur-Pushkar ::Drive to Pushkar and on arrival, check-in at the Deluxe Tent or Hotel. Rests of the day explore Pushkar Fair. :: :: Day 06: Pushkar ::Day at Pushkar to witness festival and cultural activities. :: :: Day 07: Pushkar - Jaipur - Delhi ::Transfer to Jaipur airport to board flight to Delhi. On arrival, transfer to international airport for onward flight.

Tour Interest : This tour of "Culture and Wildlife" commences at the foot of the Western Ghats. The aroma of freshly grown spices, followed by a great experience in one of the best wildlife parks. During the second half of the tour let us relish the cream of Karnatakan bygone splendor and temple architecture. :: :: Duration : 13 Days ::Destination : Cochin, Alleppey, Cheruthuruthy, Waynad, Nagerhole, Mysore, Hassan, Bellur, Halibed, Sravanabelagola, Bangalore. :: :: Day 01: Arrival at Cochin ::Arrival at Cochin Airport Railway station. Cochin -The queen of the Arabian sea-is one of the most interesting cities of India and has one of the finest natural harbors in the world. Ages ago the Phoenicians, Arabs, Jews and later the Europeans came in search of spices, sandalwood and ivory and all left their impressions on the town. The ancient Temples, Churches, and Synagogues are of special interests to historians and archaeologists. The Chinese Fishing nets, the Jewish synagogue, the Dutch palace enrich the heritage of Kerala. After lunch around 2 pm half day sightseeing city tour which includes a visit to synagogue (Saturday closed), Dutch palace (Friday Closed), St. Francis Church, Chinese fishing nets. In the evening a Kathakali show. Overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 02: Cochin - Alleppey ::Cochin- Alleppey (75 kms2.5hrs) (Alleppey in and around Cruise) after breakfast by 0800 hrs proceed to Alleppey to board houseboat by1030hrs. Kettuvalams (houseboat): The traditional rice boats of Kerala-a romantic way to explore the unique web of lakes, lagoons, canals and rivers. These traditional houseboats of Kerala are one of the most enduring images of the backwaters- its natural, cocoon-like profile complementing the surrounding countryside. These Kettuvallams houseboats converted into an accommodation of onetwo bedrooms, a kitchen and a sittingdinning area. Each cabin has a double bed and En suites WC and washbasin. The crews have their own separate facilities. ::As the boat slowly cruises through the backwaters, absorb this unusual representation of Kerala life. You will be awed at the vast expanse of the paddy fields that surround these beautiful backwaters. The boat will stop in villages for you to experience a glimpse of the village life in rural Kerala. Overnight at houseboat. :: :: Day 03: Alleppey - Cheruthuruthy ::Alleppey - Cheruthuruthy (200 km5hrs). After breakfast by 1030 hrs proceed to Cheruthuruthy is the seat of Kerala Kalamandalam world renown for its Kathakali training centre. A music and dance academy was founded here by the famous poet late Shri Vallathol Narayana Menon. Training in Kathakali, Mohaniyattam, Thullal and other arts are imparted here. Over night at hotel. :: :: Day 04: Cheruthurrthy - Waynad ::Cheruthuruthy-Waynad (200 km5 hrs). After early breakfast by 0800 hrs proceed to Waynad is one of the districts in Kerala that has been able to retain its pristine nature. It is well known for its lovely mist clad hill stations, sprawling spice plantations, luxuriant forests and rich cultural traditions. After lunch leave for Pookot Lake. Pookot Lake is a natural fresh water lake brimmed with evergreen mountains. Over night at Hotel . :: :: Day 05: Kuruwa Island ::Have an early breakfast and leave for Kuruwa Dweep with packed lunch. Kuruwa Island is 955 acres of green forest on the tributaries of the east flowing river Kabini. The island is uninhabited and a paradise with myriad birds. Have packed lunch and proceed to Tholpetty wildlife sanctuary. You can find here spotted dears, elephants, bison, leopard tiger…etc. It is 2 kms drive inside the sanctuary exploring wildlife and return to the hotel. :: :: Day 06: Waynad ::Waynad: Have an early breakfast and leave for Soochipara waterfalls situated in the dense equatorial forest of Waynad. The cliff face here is ideal for rock climbing. After lunch by 1600 hrs we will have an Ayurvedic Message program called Abhayanga-Avagaham and Sudhikriya, which is palliative to nerves, improves vigour, and induces sound sleep. Over night at Hotel. :: :: Day 07: Waynad - Nagerhole ::Waynad to Nagerhole. (100 kms4hrs) AM: After an early break fast proceeds to Nagerhole. Situated in the picturesque district of Kodagu of Karnataka. This sanctuary extends over an area of 643.39 sq. km. Catch sight of elephants, gaur, barking deer, wild dogs, macaques and the common langur. A lucky visitor may see a tiger or a panther face to face. Facilities in the park are Spartan, but the lush forest compensates for it. By 1200 hrs check in to Kabini River Lodge after lunch by 1600 hrs jeep safari to Nagerhole National Park and return by 1830 hrs. The following day after Tea or coffee drives into the park and coracle ride on the Kabini River accompanied by naturalist. A coracle is a round native boat, something like a big basket. We can view aquatic bird life and spot crocodile and other animals on the waters edge. Return for the breakfast and checkout. Overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 08: Nagerhole to Mysore ::Nagerhole to Mysore (90km3hrs): After breakfast by 1100 hrs our onward drive brings us back into civilization to the beautiful city of Mysore. We reach the Palace City in the afternoon and by 1400hrs visit the Brindavan Gardens illuminated and imaginative like a story form 1001 nights. Over night at hotel. :: :: Day 09: Mysore ::Mysore: The city of palaces can account for 21 palaces, huge and small gorgeous and needing repair. After lunch we will proceed to Srirangapatanam, the short-lived capital of Muslim rulers Hyder Ali and Tipu sultan. The summer palace and the Gumbaz are an excellent example of Indo saracenic architecture in south India. Overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 10: Mysore - Hassan ::Mysore - Hassan - Bellur - Halibed - Hassan: After a morning drive through a fertile land amidst sugarcane fields, beautiful while flowering, the special green of rice fields, silver streams, rich villages, and markets we reach Hassan, the starting point for our visit to the temples of Bellur and Halibed. On the banks of river Yagachi in Belur, a star-shaped temple with hand-lathe-turned filigreed pillars and sculptures will take your breath away. It is the only Hoysala temple in active worship. Friezers of charging elephants, each different from the other, mythological figures, military scenes, dancers and musicians, and elaborate decorative motifs charge the imagination. Equally impressive are the temples of the Chennigaraya, Viranarayana, Sreedevi and Bhoodevi, all in the same complex. ::Just 17-km away form Belur is Haliebed, the ancient capital of Hoysalas. The temple, perched on a star-shaped base amidst lawns, is a sculptural extravaganza. The temple complex has a museum which houses the idols, statues and busts and sculptures excavated by the archeological department. Overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 11: Hassan - Srvanabelgoal - Bangalore ::Hassan - Srvanabelgoal - Bangalore: A 17 m high statue of Lord Bahubali or Sree Gomnateshwara is visible from quite a distance on top of the Vindhayagiri hill at Sravana belagola. A prominent Jain pilgrim center and this is the Asia's largest monolithic statue. Every 12-year Jain pilgrims gather here to participate in the colorful Mahamastakabisheka of the lord. After visiting Sravanabelogola we reach Banglalore by late noon. Overnight at hotel. :: :: Day 12: Bangalore ::Bangalore: The modern capital of Karnataka is a pleasant residential city with good climate, many parks, and an astonishing nightlife for Indian standards. With its world-class IT industry and scientific research facilities, Bangalore is considered by many to be India's science and technology capital. In addition to being a major industrial and commercial center the city is blessed with historic monuments, contemporary shopping malls, a racecourse, several golf courses, bowling alleys, traditional art and craft stores and friendly people. Vidhan Soudha, the seat of State Legislature, has been built after independence and is the pride of the people of Bangalore since most of the other state government buildings have been taken over either from the British or Maharajas -and it really is an impressive palatial building. :: :: Day 13: Transfer to Bangalore Apt Rlw Station ::Transfer from Hotel to the Airport Railway Station

Named after the famous hunter, author and conservationist Jim Corbett, the Corbett national park is one of the finest habitats of the tiger in India. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttaranchal the park extends over a tract of 520 sq. km. It is a large valley with forested ridges running through it. The Ramganga river winds through its entire length and dense sal and deciduous forests cover the park area. Visitors are allowed in from mid-November to mid-June. :: :: Getting there :: :: By Rail : Nearest rail head is Ramnagar, 51 km. :: :: By Road : The route from Delhi traverses Hapur-Moradabad-Ramnagar (turn left at the 7 km bifurcation after Moradabad ). The route from Lucknow goes via Bareilly-kichha-Rudrapur-Dorah-Kashipur-Ramnagar. from Dhikala- the main tourist area Delhi is 294 km., Lucknow 345 km. , Ramnagar 51km. Bijrani, the closer access to the park, is 9 km. away from Ramnagar. ::Regular state transport buses ply directly from Delhi, Haldwani, Moradabad and Nainital to Ramnagar. A local bus service is available at Ramnagar to the park. Jeeps, Taxi and Vans can also be easily hired at Ramnagar . :: :: Where to Stay :: ::Welcomeheritage corbett ::Ramnagar resort ::Dhikala :: ::Corbett Hideaway ::Khinanauli :: ::Corbett Riverside Resort

Facts & Figures : :: :: Area : 778 sq km :: Languages : English, Malayalam :: Best Time to Visit : October to June :: ::Situated within the confines of the Western Ghats in the southern Indian state of Kerala, Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve is one of the most captivating wildlife parks in the world. In 1895, the British undertook water resource management plans for the area and started work on a dam and an artificial lake under the auspices of Col. J. Pennycuick. The picturesque lake in the heart of the sanctuary was originally 26 sq km but now spans an area of 55 sq km. This perennial source of water, which initially led to the submersion of large tracts of forestland, slowly attracted wild animals. It eventually resulted in the adjoining forests being granted protection by the Maharaja of Travancore. Post-1975 Periyar finds itself in the enviable position of being a national park as well as a protected tiger reserve. ::Periyar (also known as Thekkady) is a park where one can witness playful pachyderms, whose population is currently around 800. The population of tigers is also increasing appreciably. The terrain ranges from hilly to flat grassland areas at the edges of the lakes. The vegetation is of moist deciduous type. :: :: The Elephantine Abode :: ::Periyar is a veritable paradise of elephants. Herds of playful wild elephants have made Periyar Lake their favorite haunt for frolicking in the water. Scores of them can be witnessed bathing and swimming here. The Indian female elephants do not posses tusks like their African relatives. They are also not as swarthy as their African counterparts. Other inhabitants of Periyar include the leopard, wild dog, barking deer, mouse deer, Nilgiri langur (a primate), bonnet macaque, sambhar, porcupines, squirrels, gaur (Indian bison), wild boar and sloth bear. There are approximately 40 tigers in the area as per the latest reports. The tigers, along with the Nilgiri tahrs (a kind of a wild goat), are elusive creatures. However, an early morning visit, with luck on your side, could yield results. :: ::Amidst the rocky hinges along the lake, monitor lizards may be spotted. Trekkers have also sighted pythons, king cobras and flying lizards. Some 260 species of birds are found at Periyar. These include darters, cormorants, ibises, gray herons, mynas, flycatchers, orioles, wood pigeons, kingfishers, kites, ospreys, thrushes, and an appreciable number of blue-winged parakeets. :: :: Climate :: ::The temperature during summers (April–June) ranges from 21 ° C to 24 ° C. During the monsoon (July–August), it ranges from 19 ° C to 21 ° C. Winter season lasts from October to March and is cool and pleasant. :: :: Outside World :: ::The nearest town is Kumily (4 km) where communication (post, telegraph, phone and fax) and medical (chemists, hospitals) facilities are available. Internet e-mail facilities are available at Kottayam (117 km) from the park. :: :: Getting there :: ::The park is well connected by bus service from the state capital of Thiruvananthapuram (271 km), as well as the cities of Cochin (200 km), Kottayam (117 km), and Madurai (140 km). The nearest major rail junction is Kottayam. The nearest national airports are Cochin (200 km) and Madurai (140 km). :: :: Where to Stay :: ::Forest rest houses—Periyar House, Aranya Niwas, etc.—situated in the park’s tourist complex area offer good accommodation facilities. The Lake Palace at Eddapaliyam, which was once the royal residence of the Maharaja of Travancore, and Spice Village are the two other better options for accommodation in the area. Apart from these, there are many other rest houses where accommodation is available to suit every budget. :: :: Travel Tips :: ::During summers, light cotton garments are recommended while for the winters, cottons and light woolens would be suitable. Those also planning a trekking expedition must be cautious against snakes in their vicinity. For more information on the park, tourists may contact: Field Director, Project Tiger, Kanjikuzhi, Kottayam, Kerala, India.

Facts & Figures : :: :: Area : 392 sq km (core area) - 1, 334 sq km (gross area) :: Languages : Hindi, English :: Best Time to Visit : November to March :: ::Ranthambore reserve is situated in India. s northwestern state of Rajasthan, near the town of Sawai Madhopur, midway between Bharatpur and Kota townships. It is surrounded by the Vindhya and Aravali hill ranges and is very near to the outer fringes of the Thar Desert. The entire area has sprawling tracts of the desert and semi-desert vegetation. Originally a hunting ground of the Maharaja of Jaipur, Ranthambore was declared a game sanctuary in 1955. In 1980, it became a national park and listed among the reserves protected under Project Tiger (1973). Presently the Kaila Devi Sanctuary, also famous for its tigers, and Mansingh Sanctuary also form part of Ranthambore Reserve. :: :: Main Attractions :: ::Ranthambore, which receives thousands of visitors each year, is famous for its tigers, whose population it seeks to increase and sustain. Year after year, Ranthambore Tiger Reserve continues to attract not just tourists but dignitaries as well. The U.S. President Bill Clinton, during his recent visit to India, found time to visit Ranthambore despite his busy schedule. Nevertheless, the king of the jungle obliges both dignitaries and the common tourists with his benign presence. :: ::Tigers can be spotted quite often in their natural habitat even during daytime. They have been frequently seen at the edges of three lakes. Padam Talab, Raj Bagh Talab and Milak Talab. The park also has panthers in sizable numbers, though they have been spotted generally at the outskirts of the park perhaps due to the inevitable conflict with the tiger population, which command the . superior. position amidst the predatory cats. For spotting panthers, Kachida Valley is regarded as the ideal place. :: ::Other mammalian species that have made Ranthambore their home are antelopes, nilgai, sambhar, chital, sloth bear, wild boar, chinkara, porcupines, jackals, leopards, jungle cats, fox, caracals, hyena, gazelle, Indian hare, mongoose and jacanas. Sambhars are in abundance at the park and form the prime target of all the predatory mammals. :: ::There are about 264 species of birds found within the park including painted storks, white-necked storks, black storks, peafowl, crested serpent eagles, Bonelli's eagle, Indian horned owl, quail, partridge, spur fowl, paradise flycatcher and jacanas. During winters migratory birds like graylag goose, ruddy sheiduck and pintails may also be spotted. Monitor lizards and marsh crocodiles are also found here. :: ::The park's topography varies from secure forests to open scrublands. Vegetation is of the dry deciduous type, with dhok being the most prominent tree. Ranthambore. s water bodies are known to have lovely lotus flowers and water lilies. Among the park. s other oddities is the forest rest house, Jogi Mahal, the premises of which sports the second largest banyan tree in India! :: ::Ranthambore is one of the most suitable places for wildlife photography in the world. The park may be toured in a jeep or lorry-van. A guide and a park ranger generally accompany tourists. There is a network of four gravel tracks inside the park for safaris. Ruins within and around Ranthambore bear a testimony to its royal past. There are lake palaces, old fortifications and the majestic Ranthambore fort on a height overlooking the park. The forest rest house is situated at the foot of the fort within Jogi Mahal. It overlooks the Padam Talab, which is afloat with water lilies and lotuses. :: :: Climate :: ::By virtue of its proximity to the Thar Desert, the region has extremities of climate. Summers (April. June) are particularly harsh with temperatures above 38 ° C. The area receives rainfall in July and August. The onset of winters (October. March) brings down the temperature and encourages tourists to visit Ranthambore. :: :: Outside World :: ::Sawai Madhopur, which is 11 km from the park, has good communication (post, telegraph, phone and fax) and medical (chemists, hospital) facilities. Internete-mail facilities have also sprung up recently. :: :: Getting there :: ::The nearest rail junction is Sawai Madhopur at a distance of 11 km. It is on the main Delhi. Bombay railway line and major trains stop here. The nearest airport is at Jaipur, which is about 145 km away. A good network of state transport buses connects Sawai Madhopur with destinations across the state. :: :: Where to Stay :: ::Comfortable accommodation is never a problem at Ranthambore. There are hotels and rest houses like Jogi Mahal, Hotel Kamadhenu, and Jhumer Baori Forest Lodge run by the Rajasthan State Tourism Development Corporation. Their prices range is variable and fits every budget. Maharaja Lodge, managed by a famous hotel chain, provides deluxe accommodation. Other local and private accommodations are available in and around the park as well. :: :: Travel Tips :: ::Light cotton garments are recommended for the hot summer months and woolens are suitable for the winters. Entry charges for hired vehicle, guide and photo equipment are separate. These can be reserved at the Project Tiger office in Sawai Madhopur.

Facts & Figures : :: :: Area : 874.20 sq km :: Languages : English, Kannada, Hindi :: Best Time to Visit : March–July and September–November :: ::Bandipur National Park is a beautiful forest reserve located in the southern Indian state of Karnataka. This national park occupies a special place in India’s efforts towards natural conservation. It was created in the 1930s from the local Maharaja Voodiyar’s hunting lands, and named Venugopal Wildlife Park. Bandipur Park was expanded later in 1941 to adjoin the Nagarhole National Park, which lay towards its northern edge, and Waynad and Madumalai Sanctuaries, which lay towards its southern edge in the states of Kerala and Tamilnadu, respectively. The entire area now constitutes the vast Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, one of India's most extensive tracts of protected forest. It has been a designated tiger reserve in 1973. :: :: The Lush Green Biosphere :: ::Apart from being home to the Asiatic elephant, Bandipur also has a sizable number of tigers. According to a census conducted in 1993, there are 66 tigers. The park is one of the 15 sanctuaries selected across India for Project Tiger, a scheme launched in 1973, by the World Wildlife Fund for Nature in conjunction with the Indian Government. The project is designed to save the tiger and its natural habitat from potential dangers. The best time to spot elephants in large herds is the rainy season, although they may be spotted anytime of the year as their numerical strength in the forest approximately stands close to a healthy 1, 900. Other natural inhabitants of this lovely forest are gaur (a type of bull), sambhar, chital, mouse deer, four-horned antelope, wild boar, jackal, sloth bear, panther, Malabar squirrel, porcupines and the black-napped hare. Birds like jungle fowl and green pigeon are also found here. :: ::This forest reserve also has pleasant scenery to offer. Gopalaswamy Betta, near the park forest office base, provides a view of Mysore plateau and its adjoining hills from a an elevated ridge, while the "Rolling Rocks, " to the south of the forest, offer panoramic views of the weather-beaten 260-meter-deep "Mysore Ditch" and the entire Moyar gorge. Places such as these are a photographer’s delight. :: :: Climate :: ::The region is warm and comfortable for most parts of the year with temperatures ranging from 24 o C to 28 ° C, except for the brief winter that lasts from October to January when the temperature hovers around the 19 ° C mark. Monsoon is erratic, but it generally rains from June to September. :: :: Outside World :: ::The nearest town from Bandipur forest is Gundulpet, which is about 20 km away. All medical and communication (post, telegraph, phone and fax) facilities are available at Gundulpet. E-mailInternet facilities are available at Mysore. :: :: Getting there :: ::Bandipur National Park is located on the highway connecting Mysore and the hill station of Ootacamund (Ooty). Reaching Bandipur by bus is very convenient. All regular and express state transport buses plying between Ooty and Mysore pass through the park fringes and the Forest Department Center is a designated bus stop. It takes 2½ hours to reach Bandipur forest from Mysore and about 3 hours from Ooty. The nearest rail junction is Mysore (65 km) and the nearest international airport is the software Mecca of Bangalore (204 km). :: :: Where to Stay :: ::The forest department maintains reasonably priced lodges, rest houses and cottages. Sprawling deluxe bungalows are also available. :: :: Travel Tips :: ::Light cotton clothing is recommended for summers whereas light woolen garments are recommended for the brief winters. During rainy season, it is advisable to carry raincoats, as the rain is accompanied by a light breeze that renders umbrellas useless.

Facts & Figures : :: :: Area : 1, 945 sq km :: Altitude : 600-900 m above sea level :: Languages : Hindi and English ::Best Time to Visit : April to June and November to January :: ::Situated in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, the picturesque Kanha National Park was the inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling's unforgettable classic Jungle Book. The romance of the Kanha National Park has not reduced over time-it is still as beautiful. :: ::If one were to point to the middle of India, chances are he ::will pick out the forests of the Banjar and the Halon valley, ::the two forming the western and eastern halves of the Kanha Tiger Reserve, which have long been famous for their wide diversity of wildlife. :: ::The park was created in 1955 by a special law and, since then, it has dedicated itself in preserving a variety of animal species. Many endangered species have indeed been saved here. Today Kanha is among the few most scenic and beautiful wildlife reserves in Asia. This 'Tiger Country' is the ideal home for both predator and prey. :: ::By far the most striking features of this region are the open grassy meadows, where sighting black buck, swamp deer, sambhar and chital is common. And, if one can transcend into time, a barefooted Mowgli would perhaps come padding along the dusty trail, for this is the land of Kipling's Jungle Book. :: :: Main Attractions :: ::The main wildlife attractions in the park are tiger, bison, gaur, sambhar, chital, barasingha, barking deer, black deer, black buck, chousingha, nilgai, mouse deer, sloth bear, jackal fox, porcupine, hyena, jungle cat, python, pea fowl, hare, monkey, mongoose, tiger, and leopard. :: ::The birds species in the park include storks, teals, pintails, pond herons, egrets, peacock, pea fowl, jungle fowl, spur fowl, partridges, quails, ring doves, spotted parakeets, green pigeons, rock pigeons, cuckoos, papihas, rollers, bee-eater, hoopoes, drongos, warblers, kingfishers, woodpeckers, finches, orioles, owls, and fly catchers. :: ::However, if one animal species were to represent Kanha, it would probably be the barasingha, or the swamp deer. The barasinghas at Kanha are unique, being the hard ground variety, which populate the large open tracts of grass amidst the forests of teak and bamboo. Twenty years ago, the barasingha was faced with extinction but some desperate measures including the fencing-off of some animals helped save them and again the air in Kanha bugle with their rutting calls. ::The open meadows during the cold winter months are usually teeming with barasinghas and there is plenty of tiger activity around the fringes. A female with two small cubs would circle around at least two or three times during the day and the swamp deer would go berserk, their husky alarm calls ringing through the jungle. Far from being the cunning, smart aleck, portrayed in Disney's adaptation of the Jungle Book, the real "Sher Khan" is true blue-blooded royalty. :: ::There is a museum at Kanha depicting attributes and activities of the park and tribal culture. It is closed every Wednesday. :: :: Climate :: ::The climate of this region is tropical. Summers are hot and humid with a maximum and minimum temperature of 40.6 ° C and 23.9 ° C. Winters are pleasant with an average maximum and minimum temperature of 23.9 ° C and 11.1 ° C, respectively. The annual average rainfall is 152 cm. The park is closed from July to mid-November during monsoon. :: :: Outside World :: ::STDISD as well as postal facilities are available at different places near the national park. Internet facility is available at Jabalpur. :: :: Getting there :: ::By Air.... ::Nagpur (266 km) is the nearest airport. It is connected by Indian Airlines flights with Mumbai. :: ::By Rail.... ::Jabalpur (175 km) is the convenient rail head to visit Kanha. :: ::By Road.... ::Kanha National Park is connected by road with Jabalpur (175 km), Khajuraho (445 km), Nagpur (266 km), Mukki (25 km), and Raipur (219 km). :: ::Local Transport.... ::The Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation (MPSTDC) operates a jeep service for visitors to go around in the park. Booking can be made through the Manager, MPSTDC, Log Huts, Kisli. :: :: Where to Stay :: ::There are several good accommodation options available at Kanha. Apart from the government tourist lodges, rest houses, and log huts, there are private hotels and rest houses for the tourists. There are canteens and hotels at Kisli where one get both Indian and Western cuisines. :: :: Travel Tips :: ::Visitors are advised to reach the gate half an hour in advance to complete the formalities for entry into the park. Entry fee is Rs. 2 for adults and Re. 1 for children. For the entry of vehicles, the fee is Rs 15 for minibuses and vans, and Rs. 10 for light motor vehicles like cars and jeeps. Photography is free for still cameras, but a fee of Rs 10-200 is charged for video and movie cameras depending upon the aperture used. The charges for guides range from Rs. 3 to Rs. 5 depending upon the number of tourists.

Facts & Figures : :: :: Area : 29 sq km :: Languages : English, Hindi :: Best Time to Visit : October to February :: ::The Keoladeo Ghana National Park or. as many people prefer to call it. the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary lies between two of India. s most historic cities, Agra and Jaipur. This north Indian sanctuary is situated in the country. s northwestern state of Rajasthan, about 190 km from the national capital of Delhi. The name . Keoladeo. is derived from the name of an ancient Hindu temple devoted to Lord Shiva in the sanctuary. s central zone while the Hindi term 'Ghana' implies dense, thick areas of forest cover. :: ::This spectacular bird sanctuary is historical in its own way. The Maharaja of Bharatpur is credited for its creation in 1890, though conservation was the last thing on his mind. He got a large area enclosed with embankments and further divided it with earthen dams called . bunds. creating a large number of marshes and lakes. Thus, Bharatpur is mainly an artificial creation. The government banned the indiscriminate shooting of birds in 1965. Conservation efforts originally started by Dr. Salim Ali received a further impetus when the area was deemed a national park in March 1982. In 1985, Bharatpur was accepted as a World Heritage Site. :: ::Bharatpur hosts a variety of bird species from across the globe. Close to 380 species of birds are found in this 29 sq km stretch, approximately 10 sq km of which comprises of marshes and bogs. Rest of the area comprises of scrub lands, grasslands and more than 44, 000 trees that are used for nesting by birds each year. This rather intriguing blend of marshes, woodland and flora found here represents and, at the same time, substantiates the density and diversity of the region. s forest cover. :: :: Ornithologists Delight :: ::Veteran ornithologist H. G. Alexander spent a full day at the park compiling a list of over a hundred species of bird at Bharatpur. This is an indication of the enjoyment that the sanctuary can provide. Some 377 species have been spotted at Bharatpur Sanctuary, making it one of the most inviting destinations in the world for ornithologists, amateurs and nature lovers. Various species of indigenous water birds, waterside birds, migratory water birds, land migratory birds, and domestic land species are found here. There are approximately 56 different families of birds, of which the Passeriformes (156 species) and Charadriformes (56 species) dominate. One-third of birds at Bharatpur are migrants, many of whom spend their winters before returning to their breeding grounds in the Arctic and Central Asia. :: ::The bird most popular among tourists and ornithologists is the Siberian crane. According to field experts, this bird is known to travel distances of up to 6, 500 km migrating from the Ob River basin region (Aral mountains, Siberia). Conservationists are working hard to protect the Siberian crane species as they are on the verge of extinction. Apart from Feredunkenar in Iran, Bharatpur Sanctuary is the only place where the Siberian crane migrates. The cranes arrive in December and stay until early March. According to ornithologists, unlike its Indian counterpart the Siberian crane feeds on Cypress Rotents grass (an underground aquatic root). The intriguing fact is that Siberian cranes have a mixed diet of vegetation, fish and other small creatures back home, but they adopt a vegetarian diet during their stay in India. :: ::Other guests at Bharatpur include huge birds like Dalmatian pelicans, which are two meters in length, and minute ones like the Siberian leaf warbler, which is merely the size of our index finger! Several other species of cranes. corcomorants, egrets, darters, herons, storks, geese, ducks, eagles, hawks, shanks, stints, wagtails, wheatears, flycatchers, buntings, larks, spoonbills, kingfishers, owls and pipits. also make Bharatpur their temporary abode. :: ::Bharatpur heronry is one of its kind and bustles with zealous activity. The production of chicks during the breeding season is put at about 30, 000. This avian kingdom also hosts mammalian species like nilgai, sambhar, chital, black bucks, jungle cat and the wild boar. The large rock python (which is spotted at Python Point beyond Keoladeo temple) as well as its nemesis, the mongoose, are found in appreciable numbers. However, spotting a duel between the two is purely a matter of chance. :: ::The mode of transport for getting around the sanctuary is a bicycle. Cycle-rickshaws may also be hired. Boats are available for hire from the ticket checkpoint. Boating is an excellent idea for getting around the Keoladeo Lake and observing the birds at close quarters. :: :: Climate :: ::During summers (April. June), the temperature ranges from 38 ° C to 45 ° C. The onset of monsoon (July. August) lowers the temperature to about 27 ° C. Winter (October. March) season peaks after Christmas with temperatures falling below 10 ° C. Ground fog in the winter persists rather erratically on unspecified periods in January. :: :: Outside World :: ::Communication (post, phone, fax, telegraph) and medical (hospitals, chemists) ::facilities are easily available at Bharatpur. Recently Internet cafes have also come up. :: :: Getting there :: ::Bharatpur is on the Agra. Jaipur highway, just a two-hour journey by bus from Agra (55 km) and an hour from Fatehpur Sikri. The nearest rail junction is Bharatpur, which is well connected to Delhi, Bombay, Ahmadabad, Jaipur and many other parts of India. Private as well as state transport buses link Bharatpur with other parts of Rajasthan. :: :: Travel Tips :: ::Light cotton clothing for summers and woolens for the winters would be suitable. Vehicles are prohibited within park confines. Bicycles may be hired for traveling in the park. Cycle-rickshaws that are available for commuting have no fixed fares. Hence, it is advisable to fix the fare with the rickshaw puller before using his services.

Facts & Figures : :: :: Area : 430 sq km :: Languages : Assamese, Hindi, and English :: Best Time to Go : November to April :: STD Code : 036776 :: ::Kaziranga National Park, situated in the northeastern state of Assam, is one of the most picturesque wildlife parks in India. The natural habitat of the one-horned rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis), Kaziranga lies on the southern banks of the Brahmaputra River, northeast of Assam's capital Guwahati. Originally established as a game reserve in 1908, which included specific portions of Assam's Sibsagar district, Kaziranga was declared a sanctuary in 1940 to counter excessive poaching. In 1974, the Indian Government declared it as a protected site. The park's original inhabitants-the rhino and the elephant being the most noticeable-now thrive in a serene environment to the sheer delight of nature lovers. Viewing wildlife at Kaziranga Park because of its vast open spaces, the presence of the mighty Brahmaputra, and adjoining Mikir hills makes a trip to Kaziranga a complete 'jungle' adventure. :: :: Indian Wildlife at its Best :: ::Apart from being the home of the one-horned rhino, it is also the natural habitat of wild buffaloes, wild boars, elephants, Barasinghas (swamp and hog deer), leopards, tigers, hoolock gibbons, capped langur, rock python, monitor lizards, various species of eagles, partridge, bar-headed geese, florican storks, herons, pelicans and water fowls. Large areas of the park comprise of marshland interspersed with large pools fringed with reeds, patches of elephant grass, scattered trees, and thickets. :: ::In November 1999, the Kaziranga National Park was selected for the millennium award by the World Wildlife Fund-Tiger Conservation Programme (WWF-TCP) for being one of the best-managed parks in the country. The Park earned this award for the second time in succession. :: ::The areas adjoining the park, though they sound like tough terrains, are easily accessible on the backs of elephants. Mihimukh is the starting point for the park and elephants can be hired from here to enter the sanctuary. An elephant-ride during early hours of dawn awards an excellent opportunity for seeing wildlife at a close range. The elephants are managed by authorized mahouts (trainers), who guide visitors through the park. Contrary to what one may have heard, rhinos browse past visitors nonchalantly. The rhino is a peace-loving animal and, instead of batting an eyelid about peaceful tourists who have invaded its territory, it keeps itself busy grazing in the wild. Moreover, the conditions at Kaziranga are ideal for the rhino to survive. In addition to elephant rides, several watch towers have been set up for elevated viewing of the wildlife park. Pleasant boat rides at the nearby Rhinoland park can also be availed by tourists. :: ::Sunset is a pleasant sight as well with the birds returning to their nests. After sunset, a pleasant conversation and personal experiences can be exchanged with other fellow tourists once the day's adventures come to a close. :: ::Convention and norms are limited and the beauty of the regional flora and fauna can be enjoyed at its closest best. It is precisely for this reason that many tourists feel drawn towards Kaziranga National Park. :: :: Climate :: ::Weather in Kaziranga is pleasant throughout the year. There are no extremities in terms of temperature variation; the winters (November-January) are cool and summers warm (temperature does not exceed 38 ° C). Monsoon (June-July) season is dominant and lasts for a long time in this area. Mild showers may be experienced throughout the year. :: :: Outside World :: ::Nearest post office is at Bokakhat. Mail, if stamped, is also collected from the park itself. Bokakhat is well linked to the park, all medical (hospitals, chemists) as well as communication (fax, telegraph) facilities are readily available there. ::Locals and park officials are warm, friendly, and helpful and have a welcoming attitude towards tourists. :: :: Getting there :: ::The park can be approached by road from the nearest town of Bokakhat, which is about 23 km away. The nearest railway station and airport is Jorhat at a distance of 84 km. Jorhat is 303 km from the Assamese state capital of Guwahati. State transport buses ply between the two cities. Nearest International airport is Calcutta. Direct flights are available between Calcutta and Jorhat (Rowrah) airport. :: :: Where to stay :: ::Accommodation at Kaziranga ranges from various forest rest houses and bungalows to the Kaziranga Forest Lodge owned by the ITDC (Indian Tourism Development Corporation), depending upon the budget. Rest houses and hotels are perched besides the main road at Kohora (near the southern boundary of the park), and, blessed with a clear sky, one can have a panoramic view of the Himalayas from here. Indian cuisine and snacks are available at the forest lodge. :: :: Travel Tips :: ::For summers light cotton clothing would be suitable, but in winters it is advisable to carry tough woolen clothing. Littering in the park (though it does not bear a penalty) is frowned upon by locals and park officials alike. ::Mahout (or elephant trainers) act as efficient guides and their instructions should be followed at all times during the elephant ride. ::Payment in foreign currency is acceptable at the park, but is advisable to carry a reasonable sum of local currency for tips and services at Bokakhat.

A beach side carnival :: ::Goa is a tiny speck of sun-drenched, palm-fringed, hillock-speckled, lush-green-field-dappled paradise, skirted by white-topped sprays of salty blue waves. But then, Goa is a lot of things. This little seaside state, with an identity that's a seamless blend of Latino influence and Indian tradition, was crackling enough to have been one of the Millennium destinations of the world. :: :: What to expect :: ::The essence of Goa lies in its marvelous expanses of palm-fringed beaches and azure-blue seas, all warmed by the sun and local hospitality. Goa is all about relaxed lifestyle, enlivened by the Goan love for music and dance, spiced up by its superb cuisine. Summers on the golden sands, winters in the warm waters, or soaking in the Goan rains - Goa is exhilarating round the year. The scenic splendor of Goa simply dazzles as nature bares her treasures, unfolding miles and miles of glorious vistas of rivers, ponds, wooded hills and valleys. Whitewashed churches and temples at strategic points heighten the effect. :: ::There's more to Goa than sun, sand and natural beauty. The allure is quite distinct from the rest of India - it's not just the familiar remnants of European colonialism or the picture book exoticism that makes it so accessible, it's the prevalence of a form of social and political progressiveness that westerners feel they can relate to. Goans are friendly and happy-go-lucky. They are fond of the good things in life and are certainly not caught up in the rat race. :: :: Best Time to Visit :: :: High Season: November to March :: Low Season: April to October :: :: Climate :: :: Tropical: between 23 o -35 ° C. :: :: Throughout the year: Warm :: :: Clothing :: ::Cottons, throughout the year. :: :: Getting There :: ::Goa is linked by air to Bangalore, Mumbai (formerly Bombay), Delhi, Kochi (formerly Cochin), Thiruvananthapuram (formerly Trivandrum). Both domestic carriers, Indian Airlines and Jet Airways, fly there. The flying time from Mumbai to Goa is just under an hour. :: ::It is advisable to book both your inbound and outbound sectors well in advance. :: ::Goa is linked by the South Central Railway division (having major stations for halt at Margao, Vasco da Gama and Colem, linking Goa with the neighboring state of Karnataka) and the Konkan Railway division (having major stations for halt at Pernem, Thivim, Karmali, Margao, and Canacona linking Goa with Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi). :: ::Goa is linked by road to Ahmedabad (1138 km), Aurangabad (699 km), Bangalore (592 km), Mumbai (597 km), Chennai (923 km), Pune (473 km). :: :: Where To Stay :: :: Deluxe Hotels :: ::- Taj Exotica, Goa ::- The Leela Palace, Goa ::- Fort Aguada Beach Resort (Taj) ::- The Aguada Hermitage (Taj) ::- Goa Marriott Resort ::- Cidade De Goa Beach Resort ::- Renaissance Goa Resort ::- Majorda Beach Resort ::- White Sands Beach Resort, Radisson ::Park Hyatt :: :: Standard Hotels :: ::- Fidalgo ::- Hotel Nova Goa ::- Mandovi ::- Captain Cook's Beach Hideaway ::- Ronill's Beach Resort ::- Ronill Royale :: :: Other Hotels :: ::Paying guest accommodation and many 'lower-end' hotels available. There are also rooms and beach apartments with all amenities available for rent :: :: What To See :: :: Panaji: Panaji, the Capital of Goa, on the banks of the river Mandovi, was originally a major port. It still retains the old, narrow streets in Fontainhas. The Church of our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is one of the oldest buildings (circa 1541) in the city. An evening cruise on the river is a must. Here you get a beautiful view of the capital. There are refreshments and traditional entertainment on board. :: :: Old Goa: 10 km east of Panaji, Old Goa was the capital of Goa during Portuguese rule. This has given it a rich architectural legacy of many beautiful churches like the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. :: :: Fort Aguada: Built by the Portuguese in 1612 to defend Goa, the fort is now better known as the location of the Taj Group's luxury resort. Walk along the keyhole shaped jetty for a superb view of the coast from Sinquerim almost up to Baga, and then, walk up the hill to see the citadel and the 1864 lighthouse. The fort also has a prison that is no longer in use. :: :: Beaches: North to South ::Querim, Arambol, Mandrem, Morjim, Vagator, Anjuna, Baga, Calangute, Candolim, Sinquerim, Vainguinim, Siridao Bogmalo, Velsao, Arossim, Utorda, Majorda, Betalbatim, Colva, Benaulim, Varca, Cavelossim, Betul, Palolem :: :: Cuisine: :: ::Goa is famous for its sea food. Try the vindaloo and classic sorpotel. Also the local red , and feni, made from cashew nuts. :: ::The Euro-charter boom of the 1980s, which peaked in the 1990s, brought in a wide range of cuisines from all over the world. You can get good Afghani, Italian, German, Mexican, Thai, Tibetan, British, Korean, Hebrew, Vietnamese, Portuguese and Greek cuisine, apart from the ubiquitous Chinese and popular Gujarati, Punjabi and Udipi food. :: :: Music: :: ::Goans were the pioneers for Western music in India. But even Indian music has a Goan connection. Playback singers Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhonsle, as well as classical singer Kishori Amonkar, trace their roots to Goa. :: :: Festivals: :: ::The Feast of St. Francis Xavier is celebrated in Old Goa on 3rd December. :: ::Easter, Christmas, Shigmotsav Zatra, and Ganesh Chaturthi are also celebrated. :: ::The Goa Carnival is very popular here. Held just before the season of Lent, it is a time of celebration and gay festivity. A parade of decorated floats on the streets is indeed a delight to the spectator's eye. Many tourists from India as well as abroad come down to Goa especially for the Carnival. :: :: Dive Sites: The sea around Goa is a great place to learn scuba diving. Not only it is safe and shallow, but it is also teeming with marine life. :: :: Grand Island: Much of the local diving is conducted around this island. Some of the sites near the island include Suzy's Wreck, Davy Jones Lockers, Sail Rock, Turbo Tunnel, Surge City, Uma Guma Reef, and Bounty Bay. :: ::Angria Bank A four-hour high-speed boat ride takes you to this world-class dive site 120 miles from Goa. A vast underwater landmass about half the size of the state of Goa, it offers an amazing wealth of coral and fish. A 'live-aboard' is available with the local dive center to make diving at this site an unforgettable experience. :: :: Pigeon Island: This rocky outcrop has interesting marine life as well as good visibility. :: :: Malvan Shoal: Malvan Shoal is 100 km away from Panaji, by road, along the sea cost of Maharashtra in the southern district of Sindhudurg bordering Goa. :: :: Permits: The visa issued for India is sufficient for your trip to Goa, no individual permit is required.

Kerala coastal area is made up of the river deltas, backwaters and the shore of the Arabian Sea. It has a 600-km long shoreline dotted with the finest coconut groves and charming beaches of India. :: Kovalam Beach: It is 16 km from Thiruvananthapuram city. Kovalam is internationally renowned and it consists of three adjacent crescent beaches. The southernmost, 'Lighthouse Beach', is the most popular. :: :: Varkala Beach: ::It is 41 km from Thiruvananthapuram city. It is a seaside resort as well as an important Hindu center of pilgrimage. The 2000 years old Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple and the Nature Care Centre are the two main attraction :: :: Thanagasseri Beach: It is 5 km from Kollam town. The beach has the ruins of an old Portuguese Fort and Churches built in the 18th century. :: :: Cheria Beach: It is 45 km form Ernakulam city. It borders Bypeen Island, and is ideal for swimming. Dolphins are seen here. :: :: Tanur Beach: It is situated in Malappura District. It was one of the earliest settlements of the Portuguese. St. Francis Xavier visited the place in 1546. One of the oldest temples in Kerala, Keraladeshapuram Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is situated 3 km south of Tanur town. :: :: Padinharekara Beach: This beach offers a breathtaking view of the confluence of the Bharathapuzha, the Tirur Puzha and the Arabian Sea. :: :: Beypore Beache: It is 10 km south of Kozhikode city. The beach is situated at the mouth of the Chaliyar River. Famous for the construction of the Uru, the traditional, Arabian trading vessel, it was one of the most much sought after by merchants from Western Asia, for its ship building industry. :: :: Kappad Beach : It is 16 km from Kozhikode city. Kappad Beach is a historic beach where Vasco da Gama landed on the 27 May, 1498 with 170 men in three vessels.

The spell bound expanse of emerald isles, Lakshadweep studded in the blue water of the Arabian sea unfolds another world in itself. The panorama encompasses magnificent lagoons, sylvan sea shores, miles of sun drenched sand and the enchantment of swaying palms. All these harmonise to form a colourful kaleidoscope typical of an archipelago paradise. This charming isolated destination has only 10 of its islands inhabited. Of these five are open to tourists: :: :: Kavaratti: The headquarter of the Administration, Kavaratti is beautiful calm lagoon and forms an ideal spot for water sports, swimming and basking on warm sandy beaches. The Ajara and Jamnath mosques (of the 52 on the island) have the best wood carving and the former has a particularly good ceiling carved out of driftwood; a well within is believed to have medicinal water. Marine life exhibits can be seen at the new marine aquarium. Kayaks and sailing yatch are available on hire and one can also enjoy viewing the exotic marine life through glass bottom boats. :: :: Kalpeni : it is known for its scenic beauty with the small islets called Tilakkam & Pitti and an uninhabited island on the north called Cheriyam. A huge shallow lagoon encloses all of them. A peculiar feature of Kalpeni atoll is the huge storm bank of coral debris along the eastern & south-eastern shoreline. It is believed that huge boulder were thrown up during a storm in 1847. One can swim, reef walk or water sports on kayaks, sail boats, pedal boats. Water sports crafts are available on hire. :: :: Minicony: It is the southernmost most island in Lakshwadeep, crescent shaped & has one of the largest lagoons. The island is also very interesting because of its unique Maldivian character. :: :: Kadamat: Kadamat is 8 Km long and 550 m wide at the broadest point. In addition to the beautiful shallow lagoon on the west that forms an ideal spot for water sports, there is a narrow lagoon on the east. The best attractions are the long sandy beaches and the sand banks on the southern tip for sun bath. Kadamat has been identified for staying tourists with its tourists huts aesthetically situated in the coconut palm groves in the beaches facing the lagoon. The place place is ideal for a real holiday that brings you away from the maddening crowd, hustle and bustle of city life. :: :: Bangaram: An uninhabited island, Bangaram is the only one open to foreign tourists. The teardrop-shaped island has superb beaches and beautiful lagoons. The wealth of coral formation (incl black coral) attracts a variety of tropical fish-angel, clown, butterfly, surgeon, sweetlip, snappers and groupers. There are also manta and sting rays, harmless sharks and green and turtles. Windsurfing, scuba diving, para-sailing, water skiing and snorkeling. Deep sea fishing is possible on local boats with crew. :: :: Accessibility ::Flight from Kochi upto Agatti. From Agatti boats :: ::Different islands are then anchored by boats services. :: ::Ship cruise are also available but only for Indian National.

Puri ::One of the holiest pilgrimage centers of India. It is gifted with fine beaches. The beach is wide, and ideal for beach sports. But due to the rough sea, water sports are not favored. Gopalpur-on-Sea It is 170 km from Bhubaneswar, and 15 km from Berhampur. The beach is fairly isolated and undisturbed by day-trippers. Gopalpur-on-Sea is good for sailing and surfing. :: :: Chandipur :: ::A divine beach resort of Orissa, It is located 16 km away from Balasore. A unique beach in which each day the seawater recedes about 5 km during low tide and advances to the shoreline again during high tide.

Nagoa Beach ::A palm-fringed, largely deserted and secluded beach, Nagoa is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches in India. Just twenty minutes refreshing drive from Diu will bring you to Nagoa Beach which with a stretch of about 2 Km from one end to another is exceptionally beautiful .The unique shoe-shape of the beach makes it all the more beautiful. A swim in the water of this unspoilt virgin beach is most refreshing. :: :: Getting There: :: ::Diu Airport is in operation. Flights are operated from Bombay regularly. Nearest rail head is Veraval, about 80 km from Diu. :: :: Devka & Jampore Beach :: ::Devka is a beautiful and unspoilt beach with a long shore-line situated in the northern part of Daman. There is also a popular amusement park on the beach with multicoloured fountains. :: ::Situated in the southern part of Daman near the Gujarat border, Jampore is the right place for a quiet holiday. The broad and even beach line complemented by the undisturbed solitude and serenity makes Jampore a paradise for the sea-lovers. The shore is most suited for swimming as it is danger free. The department of Tourism has provided sun-shades, picnic platforms and benches near the beach. :: :: Getting there :: ::Just 168 km from Bombay by rail-road and about 193 km by the national highway.

Pulicat Beach It is saline shallow water spread formed by the confluence of Backwaters, Pullicat Lake and Buckingham Canal. The beach is situated on the northern end of Tamil Nadu. A Dutch cemetery of 17th century is located here. :: :: Chennai Beach :: ::It is the Gateway to the South, and is a 4.5 km long stretch. It is also called the Marina Beach. Anna and M.G.R. Memorials are situated nearby. It is also famous for the Indo-Saracenic buildings. :: :: Dakhinachitra Beach :: ::It is a new venture to show cause the South Indian heritage. A visit to completed first phase of Tamilian heritage is a must see. The complex also houses collections of various materials of arts :: :: Muttukkadu Beach :: ::It is locate at 36 km from Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu. It is an ideal place for rides on motorized boats and wind surfing. It is also ideal for angling and fishing. Get set for a good catch. :: :: Mammallapuram Beach :: ::It is located at 58 km from Chennai; It was second capital of the Pallava Dynasty, Mammallapuram flourished during 7- 8th centuries. The pristine glory of the 8th century temple adds splendor to the beach. The monuments of Pallava and the Dravidian Temple Architecture are the main attraction. United Nations has declared Mammallapuram as one of the 'World Heritage' center. :: :: Velankanni Beach :: ::It is the most popular pilgrim center for Catholic Christians of Tamil Nadu. The Church of our Lady of Health is located here. :: :: Kodikkarai Beach :: ::It is situated South of Velankanni and is bounded by Bay of Bengal on the East and Palk Straits on the South. Kodikkarai Beach is also known as Point Calimere. The Wild Life Sanctuary here spreads 333 sq. km with 25 km of tropical dry evergreen forests. It has different kinds of landmass from marsh to wetlands and backwaters to lake. Many species of flora and fauna are found here. :: :: Rameswaram Beach :: ::It is an island situated off the mainland surrounded by Palk Strait and the Gulf of Mannar. Rameswaram is a pilgrim center. According to the epic Ramayana, Lord Sri Rama worshipped Lord Siva here before invading Lanka to redeem his wife Sita from the clutches of Ravana. It is believed that Lord Sri Rama constructed the mythological bridge to Sri Lanka.

Idyllic beaches with graceful palm trees that sway in tune with the ever-changing sea winds. Sands which vary in texture and range in color from golden to gray to silver. Beaches where foam topped surf breakers come thundering in. Beaches to which dusky fishermen and fishing smacks lend a storybook aura. Beaches with glorious, magnificent sunsets. All these—and more—are part of the rich coastal legacy of Gujarat. :: :: Beaches of Gujarat :: :: Ahmedpur Mandvi :: Chorwad :: Veraval, Somnath, Porbandar :: Surat :: :: AHMEDPUR MANDVI :: ::Ahmedpur Mandvi, on the coastline of Gujarat, is one of the finest beaches in India. A part of Junagarh district, this place is well connected with rail and road network to other places in the region. :: :: LOCATION..... :: ::Ahmedpur Mandi is located in the western Indian state of Gujarat at around 288 km from Ahmedabad. The place is a part of Junagarh district lying between Latitude 21o 31’ in the North to Longitude 70o 36’ in the East. :: :: SEASON..... :: ::The place can be visited round the year, but winter is the best time to venture in this area. Ideal months are October to March. Though the climate is never harsh, it remains between 20 – 28o C making it the best time to visit this are. :: :: ACTIVITIES..... :: ::The beach is white and firm, ideal for walks, and the water perfect for swimming. A variety of Water sports options are on offer-water scooting, skiing, surfing, para sailing, and speed boating. :: :: PRIVATE BEACHES..... :: ::Some of the cottage resorts provide private beaches for the guests. Other facilities include air-conditioned rooms, pleasant lawns, and palm grooves. :: :: ACCOMMODATION...... :: ::Accommodation is available in many seaside resorts now dotting the coastline. Services are good in most of the places and private beaches are available. :: :: HOW TO REACH....... :: :: Air :: ::The nearest airport is Keshod around 145 km, which is connected to Mumbai with regular flights. :: :: Rail :: ::Delwada railway station is situated around 9 km from Ahmedpur Mandvi and connected to the Ahmedabad-Veraval line. :: :: Road :: ::State transport buses and private luxury coaches connect Ahmedpur Mandvi with various centers of Gujarat. :: :: CHORWAD :: :: LOCATION..... :: ::Once the royal summer retreat of the pleasure-loving Nawabs of Junagarh, the imposing Chorwad Palace and the lovely expanse of beach before it combine to make Chorwad unique. Today, Chorwad lays claim to being India’s only beach palace resort—the piece de resistance of Gujarat’s beaches. :: ::Many decades ago, Mohabat Khan, the Nawab of Junagarh chanced upon the sleepy seaside hamlet of Chorwad and saw its potential as an ideal summer resort cooled by fresh sea breezes from the Arabian Sea—an escape from the clammy, energy-snapping heat of Junagarh (also Junagadh). :: ::Built in the 1930s, the spacious Chorwad Palace with its impressive façade, elegant interiors, projecting porticos and balconies and large arched windows reflects an interesting blend of Italian, Muslim and colonial influences. The ambience and ethos of a royal bygone era have been recreated in the Palace. Luxurious rooms with exquisite décor, marble bathtubs, exclusive lounges, swimming pools, game and card rooms, video, and exotic seafood await guests at the Chorwad Palace. Overall, Chorwad has rooms to suit every budget and taste—a choice of palace, cottage, deluxe, and economy rooms. :: ::Visitors who are interested in swimming usually cross the fisher men's jetty and walk across to another beach where the sea is not as rough as on the seafront spread before the palace. But the majority of visitors to Chorwad are content to let the water lap gently against their toes and surrender themselves to the magical royal quality of the sands of Chorwad. :: :: HOW TO REACH....... :: ::Chorwad, 20 kilometers from Veraval and 70 kilometers from Junagarh, can be reached by air (Keshod, the nearest airport, is only 35 kilometers away), by road and by rail (the nearest railway station is at Veraval). :: :: VARAVAL, SOMNATH, PORBANDAR :: :: VARAVAL..... ::Near Somnath, along the coast at Veraval, as you approach the old town, are long stretches of grey sand beaches which are now attracting those who are on the look out for off-beat beaches. :: :: SOMNATH..... ::Home to one of the 12 Jyotirlings of India, the temple city of Somnath or Prabhas Patan is situated in the state of Gujarat on the Arabian Sea. The place extends from latitude 21° 04’ in the north to longitude 70° 26’ in the east. Just behind the Ahilyabai temple is the Somnath beach with pleasant sands, great sea view, camel and pony rides, coconut stalls, and snack shops. :: :: PORBANDAR..... ::Porbandar is situated along the Arabian Sea in the western Indian state of Gujarat. Famous as the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, the city is well connected to the other parts of the country by rail, road, and air. Despite its glorious sunsets, fashionable esplanade and delicious sea food in the restaurants, tourist bungalow and hotels running along the sea front, the Chowpatty beach at Porbandar is primarily for those who are not too fastidious about beaches. :: :: SURAT :: ::The city of Surat is situated on the bank of river Tapi in the western Indian state of Gujarat. The city of Surat extends from Latitude 21°15' in the North to Longitude 72°52' in the East. It occupies a pivotal position on Ahmedabad- Mumbai corridor and is connected by railway at a distance of 230 km. from Ahmedabad, 256 km. from Mumbai and 129 km from Varodara. Arabian sea is only 16 km. from the city and Magdalla port is in near vicinity. :: ::A number of interesting beaches are scattered around the port city of Surat. Dumas (16 kilometers) and Hajira (28 kilometers) are the most popular. Despite their popularity, the beaches around Surat are ‘exclusive’—each one of them a charmed place where it is easy to lose one’s heart to seaside sunrises and sunsets of exquisite beauty. The hours go by at these beach resorts as lightly as the gentle breezes. Lying on the soft sands kissed by the golden sun with the blue sky above and the haunting sound of the sea in one’s ears can be a powerfully evocative experience in which one can absorb the trinity of land, sea and sky in a rare, wonderful unison.

Just 5 km from Mangalore, Ullal is a lovely spot for those seeking holiday by the sea. With its picturesque casuarina groves, beach cottages and a swimming pool one can spend tranquil hours seeking peace in this paradise. :: ::Suratkal a little beyond Mangalore is an excellent beach with a wide shore to stroll on. 15 Km from Mangalore. :: ::Malpe is famed for its silvery beaches that offer breathtaking views of the sea. An idyllic resort for boating, fishing and bathing the town lies 10 km off Udupi and Manipal and around 386 km from Bangalore. Udupi is at a distance of 60 km from Mangalore. :: ::Mangalore is well connected with regular flights from Bangalore and Mumbai and road distance from Bangalore is 365 Km (8 Hrs).

Beaches of port Blair Lucky you! There is a coral wonder quite close to Port Blair, your point of arrival and departure to these islands. But before we could jump into our shorts and learn how to use snorkeling gear, a peep into the hotel. While Port Blair (named after Lt. Archibald Blair who came here on behalf of the East India Company) has several of those typically small Indian hotels, if you want to savor the sea, you ought straight for the ones at Corbyn's Cove. Not that the other hotels cannot give you a whiff of sea breeze (the sea being, in some form or another, quite unavoidable here). But if you wish to get yourself a large slice of beach, sun and surf, topped with a nice tan, a cool coconut and the other earthly comforts like snorkeling, boat rides, parties on board and even deep-sea diving, the hotels at Corbyn. s Cove are highly recommended. Wandur National Park The next to follow should be a sojourn to some of those exotic, uninhabited, and pristine islands near the city. You can for Wandur (also, Wandoor) on the west coast of the South Andaman Island. Hop on to one of the boats departing from Wandur jetty at 10 a.m. and you are for the nearby islands of Grub, Red Skin, and Jolly Buoy (a cruise that takes about one hour through mangrove creeks). Both Red Skin and Jolly Buoy are ideal places for observing tropical marine life and an amazing maze of corals. Glass-bottom boats and snorkeling equipment are available on hire and most hotels and tour operators will let you have details about how to get them. The island also have good beaches ideal for spending a leisurely day bathing and basking. At best, these islands are daylong excursions and no night stays are allowed. Because of the fragile ecological balance of this area, it has been declared a Marine National Park. Also to be found among its rich marine fauna are four species of turtles, the dugong and the salt-water crocodile. The National Park encompasses a total of 15 major islands and several islets. Beaches of Cinque Island Yet another excursion, in a slightly different direction, is the one to Cinque Island situated 25 kilometers south of Port Blair. If water sports fascinate you, this is the direction to for. Cinque offers good opportunities for scuba diving, snorkeling and windsurfing. The shallow seas around the island are rich in corals and there are some fine, unspoiled beaches. If you are lucky, you could be greeted by frolicking dolphins. A day at each of these islands will suffice to quench the appetite of most for the sea. But the experience always leaves the visitors with an uneasy feeling. the feeling to long for the more and more of the same. Beaches Havelock and Neil Islands A longer itinerary must include a cruise to Havelock and the nearby Neil islands. Both the islands are connected to Port Blair with inter-island shipping services. The ships being the lifeline between the islands, don. t expect too much of luxury beyond safe passage. But having borne the rigors of the cruise, Havelock will indeed be worth all the trouble. The island has accommodation facilities and visitors can stay overnight to really enjoy the expanses of virgin, unspoiled beaches at Havelock. The waters around the island are also rich in marine life and one cold expect the unexpected: the sight of frolicking dolphins just a little further out from where one is bathing. Travel Information Andaman Islands is a sensitive area because of security reasons and special permits are required to enter these islands.

Amarnath Yatra resumes ::The annual month-long Amarnath yatra has recommenced, after being suspended for two to three days on account of inclement weather on the pilgrimage route. :: :: What is Amarnath? ::Amarnath is a mountain cave, situated on the narrow openings between the mountains of Lidder valley, at a height of 3, 888 mts. Accessible only during the month of shravan (July-August), the cave is considered to be holy by Hindus. Why so? :: :: Legends of Amarnath? ::According to one tale, a Muslim shepherd, Buta Malik, was given a sack of coal by a Sadhu. When he reached home, the sack contained gold. He rushed to thank the Sadhu, and discovered a cave at their meeting place. This later become a place of pilgrimage. Till date, the descendants of Buta Malik are given a percentage of donations - the rest goes to the trust managing the shrine. ::According to another legend, it was in the caves of Amarnath that Lord Shiva (the destroyer in the Holy Trinity) narrated to Parvati, his consort, the secret of immortality and creation. Unknown to them, a pair of doves eavesdropped. Having learnt the secrets, they are reborn again and again, and have made this cave their eternal abode. Yet another legend avers that when Rishi Kashyap drained Kashmir Valley, then a vast lake, of water, the cave was found. :: :: What makes Amarnath Special? ::Every year, in the month of July and August, an image of Lord Shiva, in the form of a lingam, is formed naturally as an ice stalagmite which waxes and wanes with the Moon's cycle. First a solid base is formed and then the lingam begins to rise on it. On Purnima it slowly acquires full form. According to the legends it is on that day, that Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of life to Parvati, the beautiful daughter of the Himalayas. By the side of the lingam, are two more ice stalagmites, representing Parvati and their son, Ganesha. :: :: The Yatra? ::The yatra or trek to the cave can begin either from Srinagar or Pahalgam, 141 km or 45 km away, respectively. From Pahalgam, the journey to Amarnath is 5 days. On the way, there are three rest sites and many refreshment centres. The route winds through Mahagunis Pass, about 13800 feet above sea-level and snow-bound even in summer. After having a bath in the Panchtarani, a meeting point of 5 rivers and the last stop before the caves, devotees move towards the Amarnath Caves, just 6 km. ahead. :: :: Tour Package :: Day 1: Delhi - Jammu Arrive Delhi. Later in the day explore the city. Evening by train to Jammu, overnight at train. :: Day 2: Jammu - Katra Morning arrival at Jammu. Afternoon explore the city of Jammu. Leave for Katra in the evening and on arrival, check-in at the Hotel. :: Day 3: Katra- Mata Vaishnao Devi Temple Early morning Trek to Mandir (16 kms.) Return by evening & overnight at hotel. :: Day 4: Katra - Srinagar Leave for Srinagar by Car or Jeep. Overnight stay in a luxurious Houseboat / Hotel. :: Day 5: Srinagar - Sonmarg Early morning drive to Sonmarg. On arrival check-in at the hotel. Later in the day, visit Thajwas Glaciers. :: Day 6: Sonmarg - Sri Amarnath Ji - Sonmarg Trek to Holy Cave Darshan (16 kms) of Sri Amarnath. Return to Sonmarg by evening & overnight at hotel. :: Day 7: Sonmarg - Srinagar Leave for Srinagar and on arrival explore the spellbinding scenic beauty of the city. Overnight stay in a luxurious houseboat. :: Day 8: Srinagar - Jammu Leave for Jammu to catch a train to Delhi.

Mathura is the place where according to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna born. The place is closely linked with many episodes in the early life of Krishna. The main places to visit are Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi, Vishram Ghat, Sati Burj, Kans Qila, Jama Masjid, Dwarkadheesh Temple, and the Archaeological Museum.

Vrindavan is situated in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh around 151 km south of Delhi. It extends latitude 27 ° 33¢ in the North to longitude 77 ° 44¢ in the East. The place is just 10 km off Mathura, the place where Lord Krishna is said to have spent his childhood. Vrindavan is situated on the New Delhi–Chennai and New Delhi–Mumbai main railway line. A meter-gauge line connects Vrindavan to Mathura. There are quite a good number of passenger trains plying between these two places. :: :: SITES TO VISIT...... :: ::The Pagal Baba Temple has eleven stories in all and is one of the more modern pieces of architecture. The temple’s creator, Pagal Baba, died only a few years ago. His infectious spirit lingers on in the playfulness of his disciples who are ready to welcome one into the temple interior. It is possible to ascend to the ninth story if the monsoon heat and one’s constitution allows. :: ::One of the most impressive temples is the Temple , which was built with funds from devotees overseas. Here, the marble buildings almost glow with a light of their own and there is evidence of intricate carving. :: ::One of the most important and vibrant temples is the Bankey Bihari Temple, where one can expect to see devotees engaged in simple acts of worship such as ecstatically clashing small cymbals together as they move in time to ancient rhythms. The Bankey Bihari Temple houses a sacred image of Krishna known as Thakkur Ji, which shows Krishna with an almost blackened body. Devotees enter the shrine room carrying garlands of flower petals and offer them to the spirit of the statue as Brahmins move back and forth in front of the icon, occasionally drawing across the curtain to shroud the object of devotion for a moment. :: ::The Govind Dev Temple was built in 1590 by Raja Man Singh and now lies empty, its upper layers having been torn down during the time of the Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb, who doubtless considered the place one of idolatry. What remains of this red sandstone edifice is impressive. If one takes the time to examine the artwork and in particular, the vaulted ceiling, one may experience a lot of the devotional fire that inspired it in the first place. :: ::The Rangaji Temple dates from 1851 and is a mixture of architectural styles, including a Rajput entrance gate, a soaring south Indian gopuram (gateway tower), and an Italianate colonnade.

Famous for the Dargah of Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti who came here in 1192 from Persia, Ajmer in Rajasthan, is an important pilgrimage centre for Muslims as well people of all faiths. Every year, thousands of pilgrims visit this shrine, built by Humayun. This has given the town an interesting blend of Sufi and Hindu culture. Inside the dargah is a marble mosque built by Shah Jahan. ::Located next to the banks of the Ana Sagar Lake and flanked by barren mountains, Ajmer has always been a strategically important location for the Rajputs, the Mughals, and the Marathas. It was, in fact, the seat of administration for the Chauhans till Prithviraj was defeated in 1193 AD by Mohammad Ghori and then it became a part of the Delhi Sultanate. In the corner of the inner court of the Dargah is a magnificent marble mosque that was built by Shah Jahan. Also interesting is Adhai-din-ka-Jhonpra, another mosque located just beyond the Dargah. Ajmer also has an impressive fort - the Taragarh Fort, and a royal palace used by Akbar, which has now been converted into a museum. :: ::Also worth a visit is the Ana Sagar Lake created by damming the river Luni in the 12thcentury by Anaji. Alongside the lake is a Mughal garden, Daulat Bagh, laid by Shah Jahan.

The name Haridwar means "gateway to God" , and it is from here that the pilgrimage to two famous temples, Kedarnath (Lord Shiva) and Badrinath (Lord Vishnu) starts. It is situated on the banks of river Ganga, at the foothills of the Shivalik mountains . It is one of the four places where the Kumbh mela is held every 12 years. During this fair, millions of devotees take a holy dip in the river Ganges to wash away their sins. It is said that the pitcher of Amrit was kept in hiding here by Devtas when it was unearthed from Sagar Manthan. The same pitcher was taken to the other places, i.e. Allahabad, Ujjain and Nasik. In the struggle with Asuras the pitcher broke spilling some sacred water (amrit), since then these places became very holy and the Kumbh mela is held every 3 years in these cities in succession. Every evening, after sunset, aarti of the Ganga is performed in Har-ki-Pauri. :: :: Visit: :: :: Har-ki-Pauri :: Ram Krishna Mission Seva Ashram :: Gurukul Kangri University :: Sapta Rishi Ashram :: Bharat Heavy Electrical Factory :: Mansa Devi Temple

Tirupati, the abode of the God of the Seven Hills, nestled in South India in Andhra Pradesh, is the most frequented holy place in the world beating Rome, Mecca and Jerusalem hands down. This 2000-year-old pilgrimage center is arguably the holiest place in India because the God here, Vishnu , is said to be sure to fulfil your wishes. The image is said to have sprung up on its own in the hills. You can easily recognize this God as you enter the temple because you would have already seen numerous pictures of him in shops, hotels and buses. The rich Vijayanagar kings of the sixteenth century Andhra Empire gilded the temple tower with gold and precious gems. ::A peculiar custom at this temple is that pilgrims offer hair as symbol of renouncing their ego at the feet of God. For this there are huge halls with barbers patiently shaving hundreds of heads. People also lie down on the space around the temple and roll on the ground, in a bid to lower themselves in front of God as a penance for sins. To atone for their sins people also drop silver ritual objects into large offering cans called hundis. It is said that if you are handicapped in some way, you can offer a silver piece in the shape of that organ and you can get some kind of relief. People donate flat beaten silver shaped into kidneys, eyes, noses, and tongues, especially for suffering children. The idol is bathed with sandalwood and this is offered to the devotees who prize this as being now imbued with the special powers of the deity. ::To get to Tirupati is easy from Chennai where a large number of buses ply. It is best to buy a link ticket that will allow you to go right up to the hills of Tirumala. You can taxi it to there in comfort or even go in for a shared taxi. The Indian Airlines Office (22349) is in the Hotel Vishnupriya Complex opposite the main bus stand in Tirupati. ::Tirupati has to be very well organized to meet almost a hundred thousand pilgrims a day, so there are all manner of hotels and cheap motels called lodges that offer you the barest minimum in accommodation. If you are careful about your belongings these will serve your purpose since tariffs start at Rs 100 a day. The Vasanta Vihar Lodge near the railway station offers extremely economical accommodation. Bhimas Deluxe is a good hotel with moderate tariffs. The similar sounding Bhima Paradise is a bit more expensive. Hotel Mayura is a three star hotel. There are also choultries or free guest houses on the hill around the temple. Some of these are rather nice. :: :: CONVEYANCE....... :: By Rail : ::Train facilities are available to various directions like Secunderabad Hyderabad, Vishakapatanam, Howarah, Varanasi, Kochi, Mumbai, Bellary, Madurai, etc. There are also some trains going via Renigunta Gudur to different places which do not touch Tirupati. Renigunta at a distance of 10 Kms from Tirupati is the most convenient point to alight. ::Hyderabad - Rayalaseema Express, Venkatadri Express, Krishna Express; ::Madras - Narayanadri Express; ::Madurai - Sapthagiri Express, Tirupati Express; ::Puri - Tiruchirapalli Express; ::Howrah - Tirumala Express; ::Kolhapur - Howrah Express; ::Bombay, Delhi ::& Vasco - Haripriya Express: ::Direct Bogies; :: :: By Road: ::Tirupati is connected by road to all the major towns and cities of South India. It is: ::704 Kms from Hyderabad (via Suryapeta, Vijayawada, Guntur, Gudur & Sri Kalahsthi) ::617 Kms from Hyderabad (via Kurnool, Cuddapah & Bakarapeta) ::131 Kms from Madras (Red hills, Uthukkottai, Nagalapuram, Puttur & Renigunta) ::147 Kms from Madras (via Poonamalli, Tinvallur, Tiruttani, Nagari & Puttur) ::170 Kms from Madras (via Red hills, Thada, Kalahasti) ::248 Kms from Bangalore (via Kolar & Chittoor) ::1261 Kms from Bombay (via Pune, Belgaum, Dharwad, Harihar, Tumbon, Bangalore) ::2887 Kms from Calcutta (via Cuttack, Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada) :: :: By Bus: ::Direct buses to Tirupati are available from almost all important towns of Andhra Pradesh and also from places like Madras, Coimbatore, Salem, Bangalore, Chitradurga & Pondicherry in a radius of about 600 Kms. :: :: 3 Days Tour with Tirupati Day 01: Drive to Triumala Tirupati Arrival at Chennai Banglore and drive to Triumala Tirupati, afternoon reach to hotel, evening you can enjoy the sightseeing of Teerthams waterfall and On at hotel. Day 02: Tirupati Early morning visit the Lord Venkateswara Temple for holy Pooja, after visit Sri Padmavati Temple, Sri Kalyana Temple, Sri Govindarajaswami Temple etc and On at hotel. Day 03: Tirupati to Chennai Bangalore Morning transfer to Railway station or by private vehicle transfer to your own ward destination. Accommodation: Temple Valley Sinduri Park Alayadarshanam: A bus service to benefit the pilgrims is being conducted everyday from Sri GovindarajaSwamy Dharmasala to visit the temples of Sri Govindaraja Swamy, Kodandarama Swamy, Kapileswara Swamy, Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy at Srinivasa Mangapuram and Goddess Padmavati at Tiruchanur. (Rate per head: Rs 18.00 only).

On the edge of the Thar desert in Rajasthan, lies a little oasis - Pushkar. Located just 11 kms from Ajmer, this tiny tranquil town situated on the banks of the picturesque Pushkar Lake, is an important pilgrimage spot for Hindus as it has the only Brahma temple in the country. The temple is dedicated to the creator of the universe and is located near the holy lake, which according to legend was created when Brahma dropped a lotus flower and performed a yagna - a sacrificial ritual. Every year, pilgrims gather here in the holy Hindu month of Kartika to pray and bathe in the holy waters of the lake. The most important day is Kartika Poornima - full moon night. ::The town is also famous for the Pushkar fair, a cattle fair held here since centuries. Apart from cattle, animals like camels and horses are also bought and sold. Pushkar Festival Tour Duration : 7 Days Destination : Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Pushkar, Jaipur and Delhi Day 01: Delhi Arrive Delhi by international flight. Meeting and assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Old and New Delhi. Day 02: Delhi-Agra Drive to Agra and on arrival, check-in at the hotel. Afternoon sightseeing tour of Agra and Taj Mahal. Day 03: Agra-Jaipur Drive to Jaipur visiting en route Fatehpur Sikri. On arrival, check-in at the hotel. Day 04: Jaipur Mornings visit Amber Fort and elephant ride to ascend the fort. Afternoon city sightseeing tour. Day 05: Jaipur-Pushkar Drive to Pushkar and on arrival, check-in at the Deluxe Tent or Hotel. Rests of the day explore Pushkar Fair. Day 06: Pushkar Day at Pushkar to witness festival and cultural activities. Day 07: Pushkar - Jaipur - Delhi Transfer to Jaipur airport to board flight to Delhi. On arrival, transfer to international airport for onward flight.

Shirdi in Maharashtra is a sacred, powerful and important place of pilgrimage in India. This place is famous because of Shirdi Sai Baba , one of India's most profound fakirs and a doyen of secular thinking. Sai Baba spent his life in this small town. Through out his lifetime, Sai Baba demonstrated immaculate miracles and utterances that helped many souls to live a better and purposeful life. He would often say, "My Leela is inscrutable". To each one he met, he imparted knowledge according to the capacity of the recipient to absorb it. Thus through the ages Shirdi has become a prominent place of pilgrimage for people of all faiths. :: :: SITES TO VISIT...... ::Samadhi Mandir of Shri Sai Baba was actually owned by a millionaire from Nagpur and a famous Sai devotee Shreemant Gopalrao. He wanted to keep an idol of Murlidhar here. However, according to the legends, Baba himself became Murlidhar and the temple became the Samadhi Mandir of Baba. The Samadhi of Baba is built with white marble stones. The railings around it are full of ornamental decorations. The idol of Baba is a marvelous statue made up of Italian marble built by Late Balaji Vasant in 1954. The temple has an assembly hall for about 600 devotees. The assembly hall also houses a showcase having various items used by the sage. The first floor of the temple has the pictures depicting the life of the saint. The temple opens on 5 AM with morning prayers and close down at 10 PM with night prayers. ::Situated on the right side of the entrance of the Samadhi Mandir is Dwarkamai, a mosque. This was the place where the sage stayed until the end of his life. Main attraction of the site is the oil paintings of the sage. ::The place from where Sai Baba first came to Shirdi in the form of a Bal Yogi (child ascetic) is known as Gurusthan. A temple has been constructed on this site. There is also a small shrine in Gurusthan. ::At a short distance lies Baba's Chavadi. Baba used to sleep here every alternate day. The Chavadi is divided into two parts. One part of the Chavadi has a large portrait of Baba along with a wooden bed and a white chair belonging to him. ::There is a cottage of Abdul Baba, an ardent devotee of Shri Sai Baba, in front of the Chavadi. Photos and various items that were handled by Sai Baba and Abdul Baba are there in the cottage. There is a Maruti Mandir located at some distance from the cottage of Abdul Baba. This mandir was visited by Baba for the sat-sang with Devidas, a Bal yogi, who lived at the Mandir ten to twelve years before Baba arrived. ::There are also temples of village deities named Shani, Ganapati, and Shankar that are worth visiting. ::At some distance from Gurusthan, there is the Lendi Baug. This garden was made and watered daily by Baba himself. It got its name from a nullah (a drain), which used to flow there. Baba used to come here every morning and afternoon and take rest under a neem tree. Baba dug a pit, 2 feet deep, under the neem tree and kept a deep (a lighting object) lit in that pit. An octagonal deepgriha (lighthouse) called Nanda Deep has been built in marble stone in memory of this place. It constantly burns in a glass box. On one side of the deepgriha is a pipal tree and on the other side is a neem tree. ::Other sites to visit are Datta Mandir and Khandoba Mandir. :: :: FAIRS AND FESTIVALS....... ::The most important festivals and events that are celebrated in Shirdi are Guru Poornima, Dussehra, and Ram Navami. These are the only days when the Samadhi Mandir of Shirdi opens for the whole night. Every Thursday, a palakhi bearing a photograph of the sage is taken out from the temple. :: Tour Package ::Duration: 3 Days Destination: Sirdi Sai Baba How to Reach: From Ahmednagar: 83 Kms, Nasik: 90 Kms, Pune: 207 Kms, Mumbai: 266 Kms

Tucked deep in the Trikuta Mountains of Jammu & Kashmir is the cave shrine of Vaishno Devi . Much revered by Hindus, the shrine finds mention in ancient texts like the Vedas. Vaishno Devi is a bustling religious centre that draws pilgrims all through the year. The shrine is located 61 km north of Jammu at a height of 5, 200 feet above the sea level and to get there one has to trek 13.5 kms from Katra, 50 kms away from Jammu. The path can also be traversed on a pony. ::Midway to the shrine is the Adhkuwari temple , where the Goddess Vaishno is believed to be have spent nine months on her way to the mountains. Inside the 100-meter long cave, the shrine is narrow and pilgrims have to walk through a running stream of cold water called the Charan Ganga to get to the sanctum sanctorum. Within, three rock-cut idols of the goddesses, Mahakali, Mahalakshmi and Mahasaraswati are venerated under canopies of silver and gold. Previously the Shrine had only one natural entry cave, but now two more exit caves have been constructed. The shrine can be visited all through the year. :: :: Tour Package :: Day 1: Delhi - Jammu Arrive Delhi. Later in the day explore the city. Evening by train to Jammu, overnight at train. :: Day 2: Jammu - Katra Morning arrival at Jammu. Afternoon explore the city of Jammu. Leave for Katra in the evening and on arrival, check-in at the Hotel. :: Day 3: Katra- Mata Vaishnao Devi Temple Early morning Trek to Mandir (16 kms.) Return by evening & overnight at hotel. :: Day 4: Katra - Srinagar Leave for Srinagar by Car or Jeep. Overnight stay in a luxurious Houseboat Hotel. :: Day 5: Srinagar - Sonmarg Early morning drive to Sonmarg. On arrival check-in at the hotel. Later in the day, visit Thajwas Glaciers. :: Day 6: Sonmarg - Sri Amarnath Ji - Sonmarg Trek to Holy Cave Darshan (16 kms) of Sri Amarnath. Return to Sonmarg by evening & overnight at hotel. :: Day 7: Sonmarg - Srinagar Leave for Srinagar and on arrival explore the spellbinding scenic beauty of the city. Overnight stay in a luxurious houseboat. :: Day 8: Srinagar - Jammu Leave for Jammu to catch a train to Delhi.

Use this guide to better understand the different kinds of ayurvedic therapies/massages. :: :: Panchakarma..... :: ::This five-fold purification therapy aims at correcting the imbalance of the body's Doshas or bio energies (Vata, Pitta and Kapha) in order to maintain their inherent equilibrium and Ama, which forms as a result. Panchakarma therapy has three main stages : Poorvakarma, Pradhanakarma and Paschatkarma. :: ::Poorvakarma, the first stage, comprises essential preliminary procedures for preparing the body to unload stored toxins. The treatments help to loosen Ama (toxins) and move it out to the deep structures into the gastro-intestinal tract, where Panchakarma's cleaning therapies can then eliminate it. :: ::Pradhanakarma is the second stage and includes the main cleansing therapies. :: ::Paschatkarma is the final stage and describes the measures employed after the main treatment, such as diet, medicines and daily routine. :: :: Abhyanga..... :: ::A synchronized full body massage performed by two therapists using specific herbal oils prescribed according to the body type. Improves eyesight, promotes sleep and gives a glow to the skin. :: :: Udwarthana..... :: ::A deep, dry massage using herbal powders to stimulate hair follicles and tissue in order to break down the subcutaneous, stored fat. Slimming of the body is the significant effect. :: :: Choornaswedan..... :: ::A vigorous massage, with a cloth bundle containing herbal powders. Induces profuse perspiration leading to relief of neurological disorders, rheumatism, arthritis and sports injuries. :: :: Njavarakizhi..... :: ::Massage with small linen bags filled with cooked Njavara rice. This procedure is highly rejuvenating, nourishing and prepares the body for the stress and strain of a busy lifestyle. :: :: Pizhichil..... :: ::A combination of two classical Ayurvedic treatments: Snehana (oliation) and Swedana (sudation). Pizhichil is considered to be the most natural way to purify different body systems, to protect from illnesses and build up immunity for a healthy life. :: :: Sirodhara..... :: ::Lukewarm herbal oil is poured in a continuous stream on the forehead, while a gentle massage is simultaneously given, also on the forehead, for rejuvenating and revitalizing the body and mind. It relieves stress and strain related problems, slows the aging process, improves memory, and is known to have a curative effect on paralysis and other neurological malfunctions. :: :: Takradhara..... :: ::Medicated buttermilk (takra) is poured in a stream (dhara) on the forehead to calm and give relief from conditions like insomnia, depression and other stress related problems. :: :: Tarpana..... :: ::Medicated ghee made with black gram powder, is smeared on the eyes. This has a cooling effect on irritated and stressed eyes. :: :: Gandusa..... :: ::Retention of medicated oil / decoration in the mouth for several minutes. Lends a radiance to the face, improves lines and wrinkles, tones the skin and assists with any kind of mouth, voice or teeth disorders while cleansing the ear, nose and throat pathways. :: :: Kaval..... :: ::Holding in the mouth and gargling with medicated oil/decoction. Is highly beneficial for ear, nose, throat disorders; improves the voice and brings a glow to the face. :: :: Vamana..... :: ::Administering herbal decoction to induce therapeutic vomiting. Very beneficial for Kapha imbalances such as asthma, cough, psoriasis and other skin disorders. :: :: Virechana..... :: ::Administration of Virechak Aushdhi, a purgative, in milk or warm water. Alleviates excess Pitta in the body and helps treat dermatitis, chronic fever, heartburn and jaundice. :: :: Sneha Vasti..... :: ::An oil enema. The main seat of the Vata Doshi is Pakwashaya (large intestine), therefore Vasti is the main therapy for all Vata disorders such as constipation, neurological ailments, paralysis, flatulence, lower backache, gout and rheumatism. :: :: Kashaya Vasti..... :: ::This therapy is usually taken after a course of Sneha Vasti. A cleansing enema of honey, oil and herbs leads to nourishment and rebuilding of the Dhatus (body tissues), strengthens their respective functioning, restores and fortifies the body's immune system. :: :: Nasya..... :: ::The face, shoulders and chest are massaged with specific herbal oils, inducing perspiration. The medicine is measured out in the exact doze and poured into the nostrils while inhaling. A highly effective treatment for headaches, sinusitis and migraine.

There are a number of ayurveda spas in Kovalam. Some offer an oil massage, others offer up to 21-day treatments including a special diet and daily massage. Medicus Ayurvedic Centre on Lighthouse Road in Kovalam offers a one-hour body massage for Rs 300 plus several intensive treatments that last all the way from two to 21 days. The 10-day treatment is the minimum recommended duration to achieve any visible effect. It would set you back by US $30 including Ayurvedic food and massage. For an additional US $30 you'll also get food and accommodation. At the Ayurveda and Naturopathy Massage Centre at the Hotel Samudra Tara a one-hour body massage costs Rs 250. Arsha Ayurvedic hospital offers you a full body exam and prescription. ::Ayurvedic hospitals include Aryavaidyashala Kottakal near Calicut, Aryavaidya pharmacy, Coimbatore, Ayurvedic Medical College Thiruvanathapuram, District Ayurvedic Hospital, Palaghat and Kerala Ayurvedic Pharmacy, Eranakulam. The Sivagiri Mutt, a hill in Varkala is the headquarters of Sree Narayana Dharma Sanghom Trust. The ashram is devoted to Sri Narayana Guru. It offers a lesson in Ayurvedic massage for one week at Rs 1750, and a massage cost Rs 180 per hour. :: ::At the Scientific School of Yoga and Massage you can enjoy a 1and a 12-hour ayurvedic plus Swedish massage for Rs 200. You can learn Ayurvedic massage over ten days at Rs 5000 per couple. Another ayurveda shala to enroll yourself is at the Kovalam beach village complex of Chowara near the Kovalam Vizhinjam tourist trail. :: ::Dr Franklin's is a specialized boutique ayurveda shala that offers you neat little cottages in its institute near the seashore. In case the rooms are overbooked you will have the option of staying at a small resort nearby that is run by Dr Franklin. Charges are about $55 per person per day including the specialty herbs. No credit cards are accepted. At Dr Franklin's they will make you really sweat it out. Your body will be covered with little muslin bags containing a pudding of medicinal herbs, and you will be left to sweat out toxins for about an hour and a half. :: ::Feather-in-feather massage, using special oils or creams, is a mixture of European and traditional ayurvedic massage. :: ::Mama Mia massage, a marvellous mix of massage and music, relieves stress, relaxes the body and is good for what the Indians call 'Sexual Weakness'. Traditional music is chosen as per your preference, and the strokes are according to the rhythm of Music. :: ::The abhiyangam is a medicated massage for diabetics. The doctor vets how it's going to help you before you go in for it. All alcohol and smoking is prohibited and only vegetarian food is allowed. :: ::After that you can laze at the coast of Vizhinjam at its big artificial harbor dominated by pink-green mosque and a huge Catholic Church at the south end. Another place to check out is the Kairali Center at Palakkad.

At Marari in Kerala, Ayurveda is not just a trendy way to relax. The lotus pond, the bitter smell of herbs leading to the ayurvedashala as these clinics are called - all tell you that it is also healthy. If you want a quick massage you should opt for a relaxing general body massage or Uzhichil. Those staying for 3-6 nights could enroll for special treatments like Pizhichil, Shirodhara, Nasyam, Njavarakizhi and many more. The one-hour plus massage is fantastic for stress, exhaustion, poor circulation, migraine and insomnia. The Ayurvedic doctors are knowledgeable and reliable and prescribe what your body can easily take. The variations are many like the panchakarma: simple oil massage, hot poultices of herbs dipped in oil, a stream of oil or buttermilk poured on the forehead, rice packets dipped in milk, heated herbal powders or aromatic steam baths. :: ::One place you can check out is Manaltheeram, a harmonious combination of nature and excellent hospitality among the palms just 9 km from Kovalam beach. There are round thatched villas in the traditional styles with a fantastic view of the sea. It offers a warm relaxed expanse of palm trees hugging the sea. At Manaltheeram they concentrate on letting you soak in the serene ambience of nature in the raw. As you prepare for the long hot steam bath your mind will automatically plunge itself into the whispering sea breeze. As your body soaks in the specially prepared herbal oils, and your muscles relax under the even tones of the masseuse hands, your mind will also forget its worries. :: ::In Somatheertham you can let yourself go with the complete rejuvenation package that the herbal massages offer, from energizing with herbs to building immunity. You will feel peppy sipping the strange smelling herbal infusions and teas and as you look into the mirror you will find a refreshed skin and toned complexion. Try out medicated steam baths to reduce even cellulite and adipose. A special medicated ghee is given to fight obesity.

Set amidst 50 acres of lush greenery in Palakkad in Kerala, Kairali is a resort with a difference. The resort calls itself the world's first health farm. It is, indeed, unique, as it beautifully blends all the comforts of the modern world with pristine natural surroundings to be a perfect place for total healthcare. Following the age-old traditional science of Ayurveda, the resort offers a number of ayurvedic treatments and rejuvenation packages for those who seek a perfect healthy holiday. :: :: Villas and acres of greenery...... :: ::Kairali has 30 exclusive villas, all of which are based on traditional architecture and are surrounded by special herbs and trees with curative and restorative powers. In fact, the resort has two acres of verdant coconut groves and herbal gardens, two acres of natural forest, and fourteen acres of land where it grows organically cultivated rice, cereals, vegetables and fruit. Each villa has a rare and unique Valambiri conch which gives positive vibrations to the body. :: :: Ayurvedic packages..... :: ::The treatment packages offered by Kairali range from 7-21 days depending on the ailment. The resort has treatments for weight gainloss, arthritis, rheumatism and spondylitis, sinusitis and migraine, eye-care, hypertension and diabetes. It also has several packages for restoring vigour and vitality, rejuvenation and detoxification, removing stress and strain, and beauty and skin care. Massagestreatments on offer include Abhyanga, Pizhichil, Navarakizhi, Dhara, Sirovasti, Elakizhi, and Nasyam. The resort also offers yoga and meditation sessions under expert guidance. :: ::The nearest airport is Cochin, which is just an hour and half drive away.

Just 9 kms from Kerala's best known beach - Kovalam - is Somatheeram, one of Kerala's best-known rejuvenation centers and most elegant beach resorts. Located 21 kms from the state capital Thiruvananthapuram (formerly Trivandrum), the resort is sited on the top of a hill, and spread over 15 acres of lush coconut groves. :: ::The resort's ayurveda centre offers several rejuvenation therapies based on the 5000 year old traditional vedic science. The therapies use herbal preparations that help strengthen the body's immune system, and prevent and cure various diseases. The treatments offered usually range from 7 to 15 days and the ailments they cure include rheumatic diseases, paralysis, nervous disorders, blood pressure, skin problems, gastric complaints, headaches, diabetic gangrene, leukemia, sports injuries, spinal disorders, and insomnia. The resort has qualified doctors who diagnose ailments and offer suitable treatments which include massages with herbal oils and special herb baths. The advantages of the treatments is that they replenish the energy reserves of the body, help reduce stress and fatigue, relive body aches, slow down the aging process, build resistance to diseases, tone up the skin and body and even help control fat and obesity. Without side effects. :: ::Somatheeram is also a reputed centre for yoga and meditation where the two can be learned and practiced under skilled gurus or teachers. If you're looking for a holiday that combines relaxation with health and rejuvenation, then Somatheeram is just perfect. :: ::Far removed from other centers of mass tourism, Somatheeram also offers the opportunity to soak in the rich traditions, culture and natural splendor of Kerala, be it the lifestyle (the resort has traditional bungalows and cottages), cuisine or arts. Close by there are also several places of interest such as the Veli tourist village, Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple, Neyyar dam, Padmanabhapuram palace, Kanyakumari, and Alleppey for the backwaters.

We at voyagesindiaonline.com are committed to making your holiday to India unforgettable and for this purpose we provide you with general information for acquiring a visa for visiting India. All Foreign tourists to India (barring nationals of Nepal and Bhutan) must Possess a valid Visa. For a Visa, Contact to Indian Embassy or Consulate in your country; Nationals of Maldives are permitted to enter India without Visa upto a period of three months. Visas are not issued on arrival. A Visa Costs US$ 40 for up to six months, US$ 65 for upto one year and US$ 180 for more than one year and upto five years. Tourist Visas, Valid for three to six months, allow multiple entry to simplify visits to neighbouring countries. Visa for India may be applied for from the various Indian missions abroad. You may seek a tourist visa, business visa, student visa, employment visa, transit visa, or an entry visa for India from the Indian missions abroad including the Embassies of India, High Commissions of India, and the Consulate Generals of India.

We at voyagesindiaonline.com are committed to making your holiday to India unforgettable. Thus we begin by making your flight journey the most comfortable and enjoyable one. Once you decide the flight connected destinations in your itinerary to India we will make all the efforts to make the flight bookings to the Indian destinations of your choice accessible to you at the lowest possible rates and in the least possible span of time. At voyagesindiaonline.com we offer you the lowest rates, the latest air schedules and online booking services for various flights. Owing to the relations with the Domestic and International Airlines operating in India we offer you the biggest discounts on the flight reservations. Our online reservation system Abacus helps us in the instant confirmation of the air booking even in the sectors with busy flights. Three major domestic Airlines fly across the country - the states-owned Indian Airlines (with largest network ), Jet Airways and Sahara Airlines. Smaller ones such as Jagson Airlines offer limited regional services. India Airlines Jet Airways Air Sahara In a bid to attract more travellers, airlines have introduced special offer like co-branded credit cards and Apex fares. Apex fares are dynamic flexi-fares offering discounts from 8 to 64% depending on how much in advance the booking is made. Indian Airlines and Jet Airways offer Apex fares. So when you are planning your next Indian visit think of voyagesindiaonline.com for the best of flight services ! India Airlines: The IA network spans the country's 3, 000 km north to south, east to west, covering all major places of tourist interest and linking 64 cities in India and 16 in the neighborhood, including Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Kuwait, the USE, Oman and Malaysia. For the Discover India package, Indian Airlines dollar fares are US$ 500 for 15 days and US$ 750 for 21 days from the date of commencement of journey. In addition, $5 will be charged as passenger service per sect. Jet Airways: India's largest private airline operates to 40 domestic destinations. The airline has Interline agreements with 117 international airlines, and facilities include 24-hour flight information, reservation and special meals for diabetics and jains. On Club Premiere, business class facilities include use Club Premiere lounges. As a Jet Privilege member, You are entitled to, among other things, exchange of privilege miles for free flight anywhere on the British Airways and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines network. Air Sahara: The airlines has several Boeings and four helicopters (Dauphins and Ecureuils), and Interline agreements with various national and international airlines. Services included an inlight library, valet service, tele-check-in for both 'Y' and 'J' class, personalised reading kit and meal preference, including customised meals for Sahara Royale passengers. The Sahara Club Crown frequent flier programme offers options to redeem points against privileges and gifts, through Air Sahara does not offer any apex fares, the airline does not however auction its seats online with prices starting from Rupee 1/- only.

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Duration : 09 Days ::Destination: Delhi, Lucknow, Sravasti, Lumbini, Kushinagar, Rajgir, Bodhgaya, Lumbini, Kushinagar, Rajgir, Bodhgaya, Varanasi, Delhi. Day 01: Delhi Breakfast at hotel. Morning leave for Delhi on arrival lunch at restaurant Afternoon visit Qutab Minar India Gate, Rajghat and Shanti Vana the cremation sites of Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, Drive past Red Fort, Parliament House and President House and overnight at hotel. Day 02: Delhi - Lucknow - Sravasti Breakfast at hotel. Morning transfer to airport to connect flight for Lucknow. On arrival leave for Sravasti and overnight at hotel. Day 03: Sravasti - Lumbini Breakfast at hotel. Morning leave for Lumbini, on arrival transfer to hotel. Lunch at hotel, Afternoon half-day city tour visiting birth - place of Lord Buddha and overnight at hotel. Day 04: Lumbini - Kushinagar Breakfast at hotel. Morning leave for Kushinagar, on arrival transfer to hotel, lunch at hotel. Afternoon visit Nirvana Temple and Ramabhar Stupa. Dinner and overnight at hotel. Day 05: Kushinagar - Rajgir Breakfast at hotel. Morning leave for Rajgir en route visit Vaishali carrying box lunch. On arrival transfer to hotel and overnight at hotel. Day 06: Rajgir - Bodhgaya Breakfast at hotel. Morning visit Nalanda University and Gridhkut Mountain. Lunch at hotel, afternoon leave for Bodhgaya. On arrival transfer to hotel and overnight at hotel. Day 07: Bodhgaya Breakfast at hotel. Visit temple and Niranjana River and overnight at hotel. Day 08: Bodhgaya - Varanasi Breakfast at hotel. Morning leave for Varanasi, carrying box lunch. On arrival transfer to hotel and overnight at hotel. Day 09: Varanasi - Delhi Early morning boat ride on river Ganges. Breakfast at hotel. Morning visit Sarnath where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Lunch at hotel. Later transfer to airport to connect flight for Delhi.

We at voyagesindiaonline.com are committed to making your holiday to India unforgettable and for this purpose we provide you with a list Heritage Hotels of India. HERITAGE HOTELS OF INDIA Heritage hotels are usually havelis or palaces which have been turn in to hotels, some of them run by hotel chains and other by the Royal owner - descendants. The rich cultural past of India has bequeathed it a number of feudal estates, called thikanas, (small fort or palaces) or havelis, the mansions of erswhile aristocratic families. The concept of turning thikanas and palaces in to hotels was born in Rajasthan; now every litle thikana or principality has its own heritage hotel . Madhya Pradesh, West Bangal, Kerala, Uttranchal, Karnataka and Himachal Pradesh have followed suit. It is not a difficult sight to come across a fortress or palace atop an isolated hillock while visiting India. For many of the travelers, who are not very much familiar with India, it makes them wonder if there is anybody staying up there. It is also a matter of great speculation about the grandeur and intrigue of former kings and queens. While grandeur and intrigue of past has been last forever, the mementoes are still alive, kicking, and if you wish could be yours for a small price. Heritage Hotels of Jaipur Samode Haveli Bhanwar Vilas Palace Alsisar haveli Narayan Niwas Palace Heritage Hotels of Himachal Pradesh Judge's Court Taragarh Palace Woodville Palace Nalagarh Fort Heritage Hotels of Madhya Pradesh Noor-Us-Sabah Welcomegroup Usha Kiran Palace Heritage Hotels as a concept born in India as much from necessity as from spotting an opportunity. The prime necessity was to present the past grandeur of India to the tourists who are interested. Another important aspect of the initiation of this concept was the saving an important part of Indian heritage. The owners of the great havelis and palaces were not wealthy enough to maintain these huge buildings and these palaces were now falling prey to disuse and neglect.