Tourist Destinations of South India Part 5

Madurai - The world renowned temple city

Madurai is arguably the best temple destination in south. With a history that dates back to 4 BC, the town’s cultural importance cannot be denied. Legend goes that the city is named after the nectar that flowed from Lord Shiva’s hair as blessing. With such a quaint beginning, it is not surprising that the town is lively and colourful, given to rituals and processions. The Meenakshy-Sundareshwar temple is ostentatious and labyrinthine with colourful effigies of mythological figures and gold-topped pinnacles. If you have to visit a stunning temple destination in Southern India, let it be Madurai.

Must visit places in Madurai: Meenakshy Temple, Thirumalai Nayak Palace, Gandhi Memorial Museum

Nearby Getaways from Madurai: Vaigai Dam. 69 kms. Scenic, surrounded by a lush garden. Ideal for a picnic.

Chennai - the cultural melting point of South

With delectable Chettinad cuisine, excellent silk shopping and 500-years worth of monuments, Chennai is a hotpot of culture and chaos. Raj era edifices jostle with ancient, exquisite temples built in stone, with a peppering of Portuguese style Churches. The world’s second longest beach hedges it in from one side, the rest teeming with crowds and perpetually growing.

Must visit places in Chennai: Marina Beach (world’s second longest beach), Kapaleshwar Temple,  Basilica of San Thome, Theosophical Society

Nearby Getaways from Chennai: Mamallapuram. 58 kms. Temple town by the sea. Home to the famous Shore Temple.

Pondicherry - the France in India

If India is a land of paradoxes, nowhere else do they manifest themselves better than in Pondicherry. This town of wide roads and neo-colonial buildings is populated by colonnaded colour washed villas. Mineral water bottles proclaim Pondicherry’s greatness in English, Tamil and French here and the policemen still wear kepis. The flavour is unmistakably French. And yet, in the Tamil quarter a traditional Tamil way of life goes on, the markets are populated with locals speaking Tamil and it all marries in a seamless, exotic blend. Visit the Auroville, the planned ‘City of Dawn’, housing sprawling gardens, meditation centre and new-age living techniques. Serene and quiet.

Must visit places in Pondicherry: Sri Aurobindo Ashram, The French Quarter, Church of Immaculate Conception, Auroville

Nearby Getaways from Pondicherry: Kanchipur. 75 kms. 2,000 year old temples and exquisite hand-loomed Kanchi silk sarees.

Bangalore - The City of Gardens

Bangalore is urbane with its buzzing café-pub culture and its young professionals who thrive here. The quintessential cosmopolitan city that put India on the contemporary world map, Bangalore is the city of pubs and gardens. Although Bangalore does not offer much in terms of sights, visit Bangalore for the trendy, modern vibe it offers, with its influx of IT companies and the emerging face of urban India. The clean and laidback city is also a perfect base to start exploring the surrounding culturally rich area.

Must visit places in Bangalore: MG Road (Shopping and fun!), Tipu’s Summer Palace, Lalbagh Botanical Gardens

Nearby Getaways from Bangalore: Mysore. 134 kms. Sandalwood city with an old world charm.

Tourist Destinations of South India Part 4

Kumarakom - The Land of Backwaters

People usually say ‘Kerala’ and ‘Backwaters’ in one breath. Kumarakom is one of the most visited backwater destinations. The verdant backwaters comprise a confusing maze of inland waterways flanked by the famous verdant greenery, yes, but also a lifestyle that remains hidden. Traditional kettu vallam boats glide through, making you see these glorious sights. The backwaters are the lifeblood of God’s own country, its veins that give Kerala its character. Perched like an island on the Vembanad Lake, visit Kumarakom for the Bird Sanctuary that has migrant birds flying from as far as Siberia. Lush tropical waterways abound here, as does verdant backwater wilderness.

Must Visit Places: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary - Lush, with migrant birds flying in from far away land

Nearby Getaways from Kumarakom: Alleppey. 130 kms. Scenic town of beautiful backwaters, lagoons fringed by dense coconut trees and stunning beaches.

Thekkady - The home of Mighty Elephants

Watch wildlife at close quarters in Thekkady. The picturesque Periyar wildlife sanctuary abounds with verdant backwoods, aromatic spice plantations and rolling coffee slopes. The landscape is peppered with hills and offers beautiful treks. Tigers, elephants, deer, Asiatic wild elephants and the distinctive Nilgiri langur are found here. Other animals include the wild boar, wild dog, bison, bear and leopards. The park is great for birdwatchers too, with the likes of herons, egrets, darters, kingfishers and the great Malabar grey hornbill swooping through the landscape.

Must Visit Place: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Nearby Getaways from Thekkady: Idukki. 60 kms. Picturesque district famous for its spices. Lush hills, verdant valleys and tea plantations.

Munnar - The Mystic land of tea plantations

Cool climes and mist shrouded tea plantations are the real attractions of Munnar. It was also the summer getaway of the British. When in Munnar, luxuriate in the great weather and explore the Eravikulam National Park to spot tahrs, an endangered species of goat, as well as sambar and langur. Enchanting tropical greenery of the Cardamom mountains and sight of the Ana Mudi, the highest peak of the Niligiris, rising above it all makes Munnar a perfect weekend getaway.

Must Visit Places: Eravikulam National Park, Tea gardens, Christs’ Church

Nearby Getaways from Munnar: Mattupetty Lake. 13 kms. Manmade lake surrounded by charming hills and woods.

Cochin - the historic land of Portueguese

For a weekend retreat, Cochin packs a laidback punch. Explore this dainty town of tiled bungalows and antiques warehouses. The city, founded in 1341 is divided into three distinct districts – the modern Ernakulam and the atmospheric Fort Cochin and Mattancherry, which form prime attractions. The quaint, cobbled streets here lead to spice bazaars, ancient mansions and charming Chinese fish nets. The architecture has traces of Portuguese, Dutch, Jewish and British. Enjoy spicy Malayali food, catch the razzle dazzle of a Kathakali performance and end your trip with a magnificent sunset cruise.

Must Visit Places: Fort Cochin, Mattancherry Palace, Paradesi Synagogue, St. Francis Church, Chinese Fishnets

Nearby Getaway from Cochin: Thattekad Bird Sanctuary. Over 250 species of birds. Natural haven.

Tourist Destinations of South India Part 3

Kodaikanal – the hill station offering Colonial touch

Cool breezes, blue-green vistas and fields full of flowers compete with Raj-era bungalows, treks through lush forests and boat rides in the lake here. Waterfalls, natural water pools and natural wonders place Kodaikanal as a must-visit destination on your itinerary. At a height of 2000 metres, Kodaikanal affords brilliant views of the plains besides offering sun-scorched citizens the delights of a hill station. After you are done relaxing, pack your gear and go trekking up the hills which provide Southern India’s best trekking.

Must Visit and Do in and around Kodaikanal: Kodai Lake (go boating!), Pillar Rocks, Coaker’s Walk (stunning views), Byrant’s Park (scenic splendour)

Getaways around Kodaikanal: Chennai. 500 kms. Big city with urban fun. Feast on idlis and buy silk sarees.

Coorg – The land of spice and coffee plantation

Greener than green, this verdant region is redolent with the aromas of coffee and cardamom. Relatively undiscovered, and one of the most beautiful areas of Southern India, there is nothing much to ‘do’ in Coorg, but to relax in the untouched surroundings. The Coorgis have a distinct culture and lifestyle that sets them apart and the area makes for some fascinating travelling. Come to Coorg not for sightseeing but to breathe in the fresh, cool air, trek through the surrounding ridges, go golfing, angling or simply unwind amidst the forests and rice fields.

Must Visit in and around Coorg: Madikeri (capital city), Abbi Falls, Omkareshwara Temple (mingling of cultures)

Getaways around Coorg: Nagarhole National Park. 95 kms. One of the best game sanctuaries in India. Untouched. Watch elephants, rhinos, tigers and deer.

Ooty – A British Era Hill Station

An erstwhile home of the Toda Hill tribe, the town was developed by British wayfarers looking to make a fortune with tea plantations. Miles and miles of tea estates make Ooty a picturesque spot. The fun begins on the way itself where the hairpin turns on the road make for an adventure ride while the surrounding beauty soothes your senses. A Raj-era mood adorns the town, complete with an artificial lake, Victorian churches and houses built in stone. Tea plantations here roll down undulating hills and green grasslands proliferate.

Must Visit in and around Ooty: Ooty Lake, Botanical Gardens, Doddabetta, Adventure! (go paragliding, angling or horse riding)

Getaways around Ooty: Avalanche Lake. 28 kms. Scenic lake with breathtaking beauty and great trout-fishing opportunities.

Kovalam – A Beautiful Fishing Village

Picturesque fishing village turned hip resort town. Although only 10 kms from Thiruvananthapuram, Kovalam offers an entirely different experience. The beaches are beautiful with white sands as well as plenty of surf and sun. Local kiosks sell trinkets and psychedelic clothing, shacks ring with music and offer excellent sea food. Come here for some seaside revelry with cheap prices and lots of coconut water.

Must Visit in and around Kovalam: Beaches (Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam Beach, Samudra Beach), Padmanabhapuram Palace, Swami Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Kumari Amman Temple

Getaways around Kovalam: Kanyakumari. 87 kms. Stunning stone temples stand on the shores where three seas meet.

Tourist Destinations of South India Part 2

Tanjore - The City of Ancient Temples

Established by the Chola dynasty in the 10th century, this ancient city is home to one of the most stunning stone temples, the Brihadishwara Temple. A marvel of engineering, it was designed so that the shadow of the cupola never falls on the ground. The temple is intricately carved and has colonnaded corridors, one of which is supposed to be longest in India. Matching this in size are the Shiva lingam and the image of Nandi, which are one of the largest monoliths in India. Come to Tanjore to appreciate stunning architectural wonders.

Must Visit Places in Tanjore: Brihadishwara Temple, Royal Palace Compound & Saraswathi Mahal Library

Nearby Getaways around Tanjore: Thiruchirapalli. 55 kms. 10th century impregnable citadels and 18th century quaint churches.

Warangal - The Home of Ancient Shrines

More than a millennium old, Warangal is home to numerous ancient shrines. The buildings have Indo-Islamic architectural styles because the city changed hands many times between Dravidian and Isalmic rulers. A thriving city in Southern India, Warangal attracted invaders again and again which accounts for the state some of its monuments are in. But when you start exploring you will discover a treasure trove of stunning marvels in stone.

Must Visit Places in Warangal: Warangal Fort, Shiva Temple (thousand pillared!) & Ramappa Temple

Nearby Getaway around Warangal: Pakhal. 50 kms. Wildlife sanctuary around manmade lake. Tranquil.

Ramoji Film City - Hyderabad

Ramoji Film City is the world's largest film production centres. Spread over a complex of more than 2000 acres, it is home to undulating hills, grasslands, rolling gardens and lakes. There are many entertainment options here such as vintage film city coaches, tours of studios, a prop shop with actors' costumes which can be tailor made for you, a nursery with exotic plants, several restaurants as well as gymnasium. Its biggest attraction, however, lies in its cinema based options such as the prop shop and the studios.

Nagarjuna Sagar - The City of Victory

This ancient city was once called Vijaypuri, the city of victory. Today, it is also known for the Nagarjuna dam, one of the tallest dams in Asia. But Nagarjuna Sagar has the distinction of having had one of the largest Buddhist settlements in India in about 2 AD and is named after Nagarjuna, a venerated Buddhist monk. The city was the centre of Buddhist learning with its four viharas and other monuments. Roam through these or go on a cruise down River Krishna in a luxury liner!

Must Visit Places: Ethipotala Waterfall, Nagarjuna Dam & Nagarjunakonda (island museum, preserving ancient Buddhist relics)

Nearby Getaways from Nagarjuna Sagar: Anupu. Reconstructed 3rd BC Buddhist university. Relive history.

Srisailam - A Holy Place for Hindus

Steeped in mythology, Srisailam remains one of the holiest spots for Hindus. It is said that the lingam at the Srisailam Devastanam was installed by Lord Rama himself and that later the Pandavas performed rituals here too. Srisailam is reputed to be one of the most ancient religious shrines of India too and attracts devotees from all over the country. The origins of the temple are not known but there is a chapter in the Skanda Purana dedicated to this shrine, underlining its antiquity.

Must Visit Places in Srisailam: Srisailam Devastanam (the venerated temple), Srisailam Dam (picturesque views and a crocodile breeding programme!)

Nearby Getaways from Srisailam: Srisailam Wildlife Sanctuary. Varied wildlife and green, tranquil surroundings.

Tourist Destinations of South India Part 1

Hyderabad – The City of Nizams

Fondly called the ‘City of Nizams’, Hyderabad is one of the fastest growing cities of India. A historic city, Hyderabad has had a rich Nawabi past and is bejewelled with an eclectic culture that marries the Nizam past with its growing breed of IT and Biotech companies.

Charminar of Hyderabad

Hyderabad is the place to be when you want to witness the emerging face of India, of professionals with their laptops and mobile phones who mingle effortlessly with traditionally attired men in the old city. Despite being tech-savvy, Hyderabad still remains the city of minarets and palaces. And the succulent Hyderabadi biryani will surely leave you amazed.

Must Visit Attractions: Charminar, Golconda Fort, Salar Jung Museum, Laad Bazaar (old quarter – relive times gone by), Birla Temple, NTR Gardens, Hussain Sagar Lake.

Famous Nearby Getaway: Ramoji Film City. 35 kms. Watch dreams being shot at the largest studio complex in the world, film sets, and beautifully managed gardens.

Mysore – The City of Tipu Sultan & Palaces

Mysore, a city with an old world charm is charming with its leafy boulevards and grid like layout. This verdant city offers beautiful 19th century palaces and a thriving incense and silk industry. What Mysore instantly evokes is the smell of sandalwood and jasmine, encountered in its vibrant bazaars that are thriving. Mysore also preserves old houses and a stroll through this quarter remains mellow and nostalgic.

Mysore Palace of Mysore

Must Visit Attractions: Maharaja's Palace, Chamundi Hill, Keshava Temple, Government Silk Weaving Factory, Mysore Zoo

Famous Nearby Getaway: Sravanabelgola. 100 kms. Jain temples with interesting architecture.

Bandipur – The Home of Exotic Animals

Famous for its famous national park, Bandipur lies at the foot of hills, a part of the Western Ghats. The wildlife sanctuary was created from the erstwhile maharaja's hunting grounds and has a variety of animals such as deer and langurs. However, the biggest attractions here remain wild elephants that frolic through the greens and splash in River Kabini.

Must Visit Attractions: Rolling rocks (awe inspiring views of valleys), Gopalswamy Betta

Famous Nearby Getaways: Nagahole National Park. Another part of the Nilgiri Bioshpere Reserve with varied wildlife.

Leading Hotel Chains of India

India has witnessed a rapid growth in travel industry in the past decade that in turn has benefitted the hotels, resorts, guest houses and other accommodation options. All over India there are thousands of hotels and resorts, and more or less all provide a comfortable accommodation to their guests with access to modern facilities, friendly service and warm hospitality. However, there are some leading hotel chains in India that are renowned for first class service and hospitality.

Taj Hotel, Mumbai

Below I am providing information about the leading hotel chains of India with their contact details. While visiting India stay in the hotels run by these Hotel Chains, and experience a memorable stay without any type of hassle with family members, friends or your partner.

Popular Hotel Chains in India

Best Western Group of Hotels in India

The Best Western Group is a renowned hotel chain of the world with over 4,000 hotels in more than 80 countries. This hotel chain has a series of hotels that spread near leading tourist as well as business destinations across the world. Staying in the Best Western Hotels in India is the best way to enjoy a vacation. Along with a pleasant stay at the Best Western chain of hotels in India you get access over a complete range of services and friendly hospitality.

For Booking & More Details about the Best Western Group of Hotels visit the hotel website:

Book - The Best Western Group of Hotels India

Some of the hotels of Best Western Group

• Best Western Anand Palace, Dharamshala (Himachal Pradesh)
• Best Western Radha Ashok, Mathura (Uttar Pradesh)
• Best Western OM Towers, Jaipur (Rajasthan)
• Best Western Germanus, Madurai (Tamil Nadu)
• Best Western Pleasant Days,Chennai (Tamil Nadu)
• Best Western Oasis Resort, Mussoorie (Uttarakhand)
• Best Western The Pride Hotel, Pune (Maharashtra)

The Grand Intercontinental Group of Hotels

The Grand Intercontinental Group of Hotels is a collaboration of two industries - The International Intercontinental Group of hotels and the Indian The Grand Group of Hotels. The former is a leading hotel chain of the world with nearly 3500 hotels spread in more than 100 countries. While the latter is an enterprise of Bharat Hotels Ltd. You can opt a hotel run by The Grand Intercontinental Group of Hotels and enjoy a hassle free accommodation.

For Booking & More Details about the Grand Intercontinental Group of Hotels visit the hotel website:

Book The Grand Group of Hotels India

Some of the hotels of The Grand Intercontinental in India are:

• Intercontinental The Grand - Mumbai (Maharashtra)
• The Grand Ashok - Bangalore (Karnataka)
• Intercontinental The Grand Resort - Goa (Goa)
• The Grand Palace - Srinagar (Jammu & Kashmir)
• The Grand Laxmi Vilas Palace - Udaipur (Rajasthan)
• The Grand Temple View - Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh)

Taj Group of Hotels

Taj Group of hotels is one of the most renowned names in the hotel industry of India run by TATA Group. It boasts of having some of the finest hotels in India and abroad. Most of the Taj Group of hotels are located in the prime locations of India. World class luxury, amenities and quality are certain noteworthy features of Taj Group of hotels. The hotels cater to the needs of all business travellers, holidaymakers and honeymooners. The traditional Indian hospitality is found to be at the very best in the Taj Group of hotels.

For Booking & More Details about the Taj Group of Hotels visit the hotel website:

Book The Taj Group of Hotels India

Some of the hotels of Taj Group of Hotels in India are:

• Taj Chandigarh (Chandigarh)
• Hotel Taj View, Agra (Uttar Pradesh)
• Hotel Taj Mahal (New Delhi)
• Hotel Taj Palace (Mumbai)
• Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur (Rajasthan)
• Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur (Rajasthan)
• The Rambagh Palace Hotel, Jaipur (Rajasthan)
• Hotel Taj Garden Retreat, Coonoor (Rajasthan)
• Hotel Taj Residency, Aurangabad (Maharashtra)

The Oberoi Group of Hotels

The Oberoi Group of hotels are one of the prime hotel chains of India. The quality services and comfort it provides even pleases the people in other parts of country. Many of the grandest luxury hotels are found with a Oberoi tag. The Oberoi Group has hotels in some of the most famous destinations of India. The Oberoi Group of Hotels are enriched with great ambiance and décor of a classic feel.

For Booking & More Details about the Oberoi Group of Hotels visit the hotel website:

Book The Oberoi Group of Hotels India

Some of the hotels of Oberoi Group in India are:

• The Oberoi, Amarvilas, Agra (Uttar Pradesh)
• The Oberoi, Bangalore (Karnataka)
• The Oberoi, New Delhi (Delhi)
• The Oberoi,Rajvilas, Jaipur (Rajasthan)
• The Oberoi Grand, Kolkata (West Bengal)

The ITDC Ashok Group of Hotels

The ITDC Ashok Group of Hotels are said to be ones who pioneered the Indian hotel industry. Several years down the line, this hotel chain has proved its credentials in serving both the International and domestic guests with the best of expertise. The ITDC Ashok Group of Hotels owns 33 hotels in 26 destinations across India.

For Booking & More Details about the ITDC Ashok Group of Hotels visit the hotel website:

Book The Ashok Group of Hotels India

Some of the hotels of the ITDC AshokGroup in India are:

• The Ashok, Delhi
• The Samrat Hotel, Delhi
• Lalitha Mahal Palace, Mysore (Karnataka)
• Hotel Jaipur Ashok, Jaipur (Rajasthan)
• Hotel Janpath, Delhi
• Ranchi Ashok, Ranchi (Jharkhand)
• Hotel Jammu Ashok, Jammu (Jammu & Kashmir)

The Le Meridien Group of Hotels

The Le Meridien Group of Hotels is a luxury hotel group established in 1972. There are more than 130 luxury Le Meridien hotels in more than 53 countries of the world. Recently the hotel chain has announced to increase the number of luxury hotels in India from 10 to 20. The various hotels of Le Merdien Group aims to provide world class standards of excellent hospitality.

For Booking & More Details about the Le Meridien Group of Hotels visit the hotel website:

Book The Le Meridien Group of Hotels India

Some of the hotels of the Le Meridien Group in India are:

• Le Meridian Ahmedabad (Gujarat)
• Le Meridien Bangalore (Karnataka)
• Le Meridien New Delhi (Delhi)
• Le Meridien Pune (Maharashtra)
• The Metropolitan Hotel Nikko New Delhi

Radisson Group of Hotels India


With 430 hotels in operation globally and 100 hotels currently in the pipeline, The Radisson Group of Hotels is well known for providing a world class stay with access to first class amenities and warm hospitality. Likewise, in India the Radission Group of Hotels has many star category hotels and resorts in the metros like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Kolkata, and tourist destination like Goa, Shimla, Varanasi, Jalandhar. Stay at any property of Radisson Group in India and experience a hassle free accommodation.

For Details and More information about Radisson Group of Hotels visit the website:

Book Radisson Group of Hotels India

Some of the hotels of Radisson Group of Hotels

• Radisson Hotel, Delhi (Delhi & NCR)
• Radisson Hotel, Kolkata (West Bengal)
• Radisson Hotel, Goa
• Radisson Hotel, Jalandhar (Punjab)
• Radisson Hotel, Chennai (Tamil Nadu)
• Radisson MBD Hotel, Noida (Uttar Pradesh)
• Radisson Jass Hotel, Shimla (Himachal Pradesh)
• Radisson Plaza Resorts & Spa, Kumarakom
• Radisson Hotel, Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)
• Radisson Jass Hotel, Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh)

Other famous hotel chains in India are:

Park Group of Hotels - The Park, Chennai, The Park, Kolkata, The Park, Bangalore, The Park, New Delhi

Book The Park Group of Hotels India

Neemrana Group of Hotels - Neemrana Fort Palace, The Pataudi Palace, The Hill Fort, Kesrolli & Wallwood Garden, Coonoor

Book The Neemrana Group of Hotels India

Elgin Group of Heritage Hotels -The Elgin Hotel, Darjeeling (West Bengal), The Nor-Khil, Gangtok (Sikkim)

Kenilworth Group of Hotels - The Kenilworth Hotel, Kolkata (West Bengal), Kenilworth Beach Resort, Goa

Hindustan Group of Hotels - Hotel Hindustan International, Kolkata (West Bengal), Hotel Hindustan International,Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)


Book The Hindustan Group of Hotels India

Hotels in India: How to Book a Hotel

India is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. Each year millions of travelers visit India from across the globe to enjoy a leisure vacation or other purposes like treatment or business. Accommodation in almost every nook and corner of the country is not at all an issue. From metros to small towns, all parts of India are dotted with hotels, resorts, guest houses, serviced apartments, etc.

                                Taj Hotel in Mumbai

Based on budget and requirements the hotels and resorts of India offersessential amenities and services to guests. From a small amount of Rs. 100 to 200, to a whopping amount of Rs. 1 Lakh to 5 lakh per night, you can book a hotel or resort in India. The boom in India’s travel industry has led to the trend of Online Hotel Booking Facility. You can book the hotels either online through websites like MakeMyTrip (www.makemytrip.com) or Yatra (www.yatra.com). Most of the leading star hotels offer online booking facility on their own websites.

Categories of Hotels / Resorts (Accommodation Options) in India

• Five Star (5 Star) Hotel / Resort
• Four Star (4 Star) Hotel / Resort
• Three Star (3 Star) Hotel / Resort
• Two Star (2 Star) Hotel / Resort
• One Star (5 Star) Hotel / Resort
• Budget Hotel / Resort
• Homestay
• Serviced Apartments
• Guest House (Government Guest House / Private Guest House)
• Tourist Lodge
• Wildlife Resort / Wildlife Lodge/ Jungle Resort

Popular Indian Websites (Travel Portals) for Hotel Booking

Make My Trip


Yatra


Clear Trip

Articles Related to Hotels in India

Leading Hotels Chains of India

Weekend Getaways across India

The vast countryside of India is comprised of plain, mountains, rivers, wildlife and desert. The natural treasures as well as man-made attractions of India altogether provide excellent opportunities for vacations. In fact, many of the destinations serve as weekend getaways for people residing in metropolitan cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore and Hyderabad.

Duke's Nose Point in Lonavala - A Getaway close to Mumbai

Besides sightseeing the weekend getaways offer a wonderful opportunity to indulge in leisure activities like picnics and various types of outdoor activities. Many weekend getaways of India provide a chance to try adrenaline rushing adventure activities. Most of the weekend destinations have hotels, resorts or guest houses for accommodation. Other essential amenities can be found at the weekend getaways around India. The weekend getaways can be visited during weekend breaks with through an overnight journey or a short drive.

Bushi Dam in Khandala - A getaway close to Mumbai

Some of the popular weekend getaways around India are as follows:

Weekend Getaways from Bangalore

Weekend Getaways from Chennai

Weekend Getaways from New Delhi

Weekend Getaways from Kolkata

Weekend Getaways from Mumbai

Weekend Getaways from Hyderabad

Entrance Charges for Monuments in India

The historic land of India has been ruled by many dynasties and rulers in the past. During their rules the mighty rulers had constructed several structures include forts, palaces, temples, caves, etc. Interstingly those historic monuments have survived the worst climatic condition over the centuries, and even providing a glimpse of architectural styles used in the bygone era. The Indian Government has taken authority over the ancient monuments, and hander over the Archaeological Survery of India (ASI) and other government bodies to look after the old structures. In fact, a small entrance charge has been fixed for visitors that in turn generate revenue for the country.

Below I am providing information about the entrance chages of India's most popular monuments. For your ease the monuments are listed circle (area) wise:

Agra Circle Monument Charges

Monument Name - Entry Fees

• Taj Mahal, Agra - US$5
• Agra Fort, Agra - US$5
• Sikandra - Not Available
• Fatehpur Sikri - Not Available 

Aurangabad Circle Monument Entrance Charges

Monument Name        -            Entry Fees

• Ajanta Caves, Ajanta     - US $ 5
• Ellora Caves, Ellora        - US $ 5
• Elephanta Caves             - US $ 7
• Bibi-Ka-Maqbara           - US $ 5
• Kanheri Caves               - US $ 5
• Karla Caves - US $ 2
• Daulatabad Fort - US $ 5
• Raigad Fort - US $ 5
• Bhaja Fort - US $ 2
• Aurangabad Caves - US $ 5

Bangalore Circle Monument Charges

Monument Name - Entry Fees

• Tipu Sultan Palace, Mysore - Rs 100
• Bellary Fort - US $ 5
• Zanana Enclosures, Hampi - Currently Information Not Available
• Keshwa Temple, Somnathpura - Currently Information Not Available

Bhopal Circle Monument Charges

Monument Name - Entry Fees

• Khajuraho Monuments - US $ 10
• Bagh Caves - US $ 5
• Royal Complex, Mandu - US $ 5
• Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi - US $ 10
• Chanderi Museum - US $ 10
• Gwalior Monument - Rs 100

Bhubaneshwar Circle Monument Charges

Monument Name - Entra Fees

• Sun Temple, Konark - US $ 5
• Raja Rani Temple - US $ 5
• Udayagiri and Kandagri Caves - US $ 5
• Laxman Temple Sirpur - US $ 5

Chandigarh Circle Monument Charges

Monument Name - Entry Fees

• Kangra Fort - US $ 5
• Sheikh Chillis Tomb Thanesar - US $ 2

Chennai Circle Monument Charges

Monument Name - Entry Fees

• Fort Museum - US $ 5
• Gingee Fort - US $ 2
• Dindigul Fort - US $ 2

Delhi / New Delhi Circle Monument Charges

Monument Name - Entry Fees

• Jantar Mantar - Rs 100
• Purana Quila - Rs 100
• Safdarjung Tomb - US $ 5
• Red Fort - US $ 5
• Humayun's Tomb - US $ 10
• Qutab Minar - Rs 250

Hyderabad / Secunderabad Circle Monument Charges

Monument Name - Entry Fees 

• Golconda Fort - US $ 2
• Chandragiri Fort - Rs 100
• Warangal Fort US - $ 2
• Charminar - Rs 100

Jaipur Circle Monument Charges

Monument Name - Entry Fees

• Amber Fort - Not Available
• Jantar Mantar - Not Available
• City Palace - Not Available
• Hawa Mahal - Not Available

Kolkata / Calcutta Circle Monument Charges

Monument Name - Entry Fees

• Bishnupur Group of Temples - US $ 5
• Kooch Bihar Palace - US $ 10

Lucknow Circle Monument Charges

Monument Name - Entry Fees

• Rani Mahal, Jhansi - US $ 5
• Jhansi Qila, Jhansi - US $ 5
• Sahet Shravasti - US $ 5

Patna Circle Monument Charges

Monument Name - Entry Fees

• Kumrahar Excavated Sites - US $ 5
• Ashokan Pillar, Vaishali - US $ 5
• Jaunpur Fort - US $ 5
• Nalanda Excavated Site - US $ 5
• Sasaram Sher Shah Suri's Tomb - US $ 5

Srinagar Circle Monument Charges

Monument Name - Entry Fees

• Ram Nagar Palaces - Not Available
• Temple at Kiramchi - Not Available
• Leh Palace - Not Available

Thrissur Circle Monument Charges

Monument Name - Entry Fees

• Bekal Fort - Not Available
• Mattanchery Palace - Not Available

Note: The above mentioned Entrance Fees are applicaple for Foreign Tourists. However, Indian Citizen have to pay from Rs. 5 to a maximum of Rs. 50 to visit the different monuments across India. Entry is free for Indian Citizen in many monuments of the country.

Wildlife Park and Sanctuaries Entry Charges

The vast countryside of India is dotted with thousand acres of forest that serve as the habitat of a variety of wildlife. The government of India and state governments have designated many forest areas across the country as wildlife parks and sanctuaries. Along with saving the valuable animals for poaching, the national parks and sanctuaries provide common people, wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers a wonderful chance to closely see the varied wildlife without any danger or chances of attack from fierce beasts. Whether, you are a domestic traveler or foreigner, it is always good to know the Wildlife Parks and Sanctuaries entry charges before proceeding on a wildlife trip.

Below we are providing the approx / exact entry charges of India’s famous wildlife parks and sanctuaries.

Wildlife Parks in Assam Entrance Charges

Kaziranga National Park – Rs. 20 (Indian) - Rs 250 (Foreigner)

Manas National Park – Rs. 20 (Indian) - Rs 250 (Foreigner)

Orang National Park – Rs. 20 (Indian) - Rs 250 (Foreigner)

Wildlife Parks in Gujarat Charges

Gir National Park & Sanctuary – Rs. 30 (Indian) - Rs 250 / US $ 5 (Foreigner)

Velavadar National Park – Rs. 30 (Indian) - Rs 250 / US $ 5 (Foreigner)

Little Rann Of Kutch - Rs. 30 (Indian) - Rs 250 / US $ 5 (Foreigner)

Wildlife Parks in Rajasthan Entry Charges

Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary - Rs 80 (Foreigner)

Desert National Park - Rs 80 (Foreigner)

Sambhar Salt Lake - Rs 80 (Foreigner) 

Keoladeo Ghana National Park - Rs 200 (Foreigner)

Sariska National Park - Rs 200 (Foreigner)

Ranthambore National Park - Rs 200(Foreigner)

Wildlife Park in Goa Entry Charges

Mollem National Park In Goa - Rs 20 (Indian) / Foreigner (not available)

Wildlife Parks in Himachal Pradesh Entry Charges

Great Himalayan National Park - Rs. 10 (Indian) - Rs 200 (Foreigner)

Pin Valley National Park - Rs 100 (Foreigner – may vary)

Wildlife Parks in Jammu and Kashmir Entry Charges

Hemis National Park - Rs 20 (Indian) / Foreigner (Not available)

Wildlife Parks in Karnataka Entry Charges

Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary - Rs 40 (Indian)

Nagarhole National Park - Rs 150 (Foreigner)

Wildlife Parks in Kerala Entry Charges

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary - Rs 100 (Foreigner)

Parambikulam Sanctuary - Rs 5 (Indian)

Chimmony Wilidlife Sanctuary - Rs 10 (Indian)

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary - Rs 10 (Indian)

Eravikulam National Park - Rs 200 (Foreigner)

Periyar Tiger Reserve - Rs 300 (Foreigner)

Wildlife National Parks in Madhya Pradesh Charges

Panna National Park - Rs. 40 (Indian) - Rs 500 / US $ 10 (Foreigner)

Bandhavgarh National Park - Rs 500 (Foreigner)

Kanha National Park - Rs 500 (Foreigner)

Pench National Park - Rs 500 (Foreigner)

Wildlife Parks in Orissa Entry Charges

Simlipal Tiger Reserve - Rs 1,000 (Foreigner)

Bhitarkanika National Park - Rs 1,000 (Foreigner)

Wildlife Park in Uttar Pradesh Entry Charges

Dudhwa National Park - Rs 50 (Foreigner)

Wildlife Parks in Uttaranchal Entry Charges

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary - Rs 100 (Foreigner)

Rajaji National Park - Rs 350 (Foreigner)

Corbett National Park - Rs 400 (Foreigner)

Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu Entry Charges

Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary - Rs 15 (Indian)

Wildlife Parks in West Bengal Entry Charges

Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary - Rs 100 (Foreigner)

Sunderbans Tiger Reserve - Rs 150 (Foreigner)

Kindly note, the entry charges don’t include safari charges or other additional charges charged by the park authority. The entry charges may also vary on the spot. India Travel Directory is not responsible for any change in entrance rates.