Incredible India! Shivpuri - A Little Explored Destination of Madhya Pradesh

Fast Facts About Shivpuri

Located in the State of: Madhya Pradesh

District of : Shivpuri

Famous for/as: Wildlife / Amazing Flora & Fauna

Languages Spoken at Shivpuri : Hindi and English

Best Season to visit Shivpuri: October to May

Average Temperatures at Shivpuri: Summer 32 to 42°C, Winter 15 to 28°C

Altitude of Shivpuri: 468 m

STD code of Shivpuri: 07492

Once the summer capital of the Scindias of Gwalior, Shivpuri is a historic town situated in Madhya Pradesh. Shivpuri has rich historic connection and even today provides a glimpse of its past through its old but imposing structure. Magnificent royal mansions with Victorian style architecture, majestic hills, palaces, lustrous greenery, Shivpuri is a delight for all. Besides these, exquisite royal palaces of Shivpuri with its glittering whiteness present an eye-catching spectacle to the viewer.

Along with its impressive mansions and palaces, Shivpuri is also famous for its rich and varied wildlife. In fact, the impassable forests of this historic town were the hunting grounds of the Mughal emperors. Shivpuri is surrounded by deep woody forest that is the treasure houses of rich flora and fauna. An adventurous trip through the wilderness of the jungle paths is indeed very challenging. The renowned wildlife sanctuaries that preserve the endangered animal and bird species add special charm to Shivpuri’s natural beauty. Adventure lovers can opt for short trips through the challenging paths, amidst of lush vegetation that provides fabulous views of a ruined fort, three Hindu temples, and a monastery.

Hence, must plan a visit to Shivpuri that presents a fine blend of old and new. Shivpuri, though bears a modern look, the glimpses of its royal heritage hangs all around the city. Remnants of ancient mansions, magnificent palaces, hunting lodges and the royal streets give a majestic look to the surroundings. The rolling hills and the pleasant climate of Shivpuri altogether makes it as a fast emerging tourist destination. Exploring the town of Shivpuri becomes an easy affair with the availability of taxis, auto rickshaws and buses.

Incredible India! Una - A Little Explored Destination of Himachal Pradesh

Fast Facts About Una

Located in the State of : Himachal Pradesh

District of : Una

Famous for/as: Hill Station / Hill Resort

Languages Spoken at Una : Himachali and Hindi

Best Season to visit Una: All through the year

Average Temperatures at Una: Summer 15 to 30°C, Winter 0 to 24°C

Altitude of Una: 369 m

STD code of Una: 01975

The prize state of Himachal Pradesh is bestowed with many beautiful hill stations including world famous Shimla, Manali and Dharamshala. Although a little known, Una is a must visit hill resort in Himachal Pradesh. Far from the maddening crowds of the city, Una is located in the southwest region of Himachal and provides a welcome break to all to enjoy a relaxing holiday amidst natural surroundings.

However, the hill station of Una has gained wide popularity due to availability of large number of temples and many places of religious significance. Hence, besides fulfillment of religious purpose the pilgrims get an excellent chance to experience the mother nature closely at Una. On the other hand, the common travelers along with enjoying the unspoiled nature can experience the charming culture of the area especially during the festive season.

Once you are in Una, you can visit the Chintpurni Temple, which is a very popular temple in the region. This temple has been constructed entirely of stones and is dedicated to the main deities of Lord Ganesha and Lord Hanuman. A fair is held in this temple every year during the month of August, and pilgrims from around the country congregate here during this time. You can also visit the Dera Baba Rudru Temple during your trip to Una, and this temple, located at a distance of 10 kilometres from the main town, houses a fire that has been burning for many years now.

You can also visit the Dhyunsar Mahadev temple and Shiv Bari in the town of Una. Shiv Bari is revered by Hindus as this is said to be the site where Dhronacharya used to conduct a school of archery.

Incredible India! Valsad - A Little Explored Destination of Gujarat

Fast Facts About Valsad

Located in the State of : Gujarat

District: Valsad

Famous As / For : City (Tourist Destination) / Historic Dandi Yatra

Languages Spoken: Gujarati & Hindi

Best Time to Visit Valsad: October to March

Average Temperatures at Valsad: Summer 22 to 40°C, Winter 10 to 32°C

STD code of Wardha: 02632

Although a little known town, Valsad is quite popular among the travelers visiting the west Indian state of Gujarat. Situated in the Valsad district of Gujarat, the town also famous for its location close to historic Dandi (16 kms), from where Mahatama Gandhi flagged off the Dandi March. A museum called Saifee Villa Museum is constructed at Dandi, which commemorates the historic event with artefacts and pictures reflecting the life and achievements of Gandhi.

Besides this, you can visit the Somnath Mahadev Temple, which is a very tall temple, ranking among one of the tallest in the state. This temple is a popular spot for pilgrims, and it is popular among the local crowd. You should also visit the Dastur Meherji – Rana library while travelling to the town of Valsad, as this library has a huge literature collection and will interest bookworms to no end. Tithal Beach is another nearby attraction from Valsad.

Incredible India! Wardha - A Little Explored Destination in Maharashtra

Fast Facts About Wardha

Located in the State of : Maharashtra

District: Wardha

Famous As / For : Sightseeing Spot, Cotton Production

Languages Spoken: Marathi & Hindi

Best Time to Visit Wardha: September to March

Average Temperatures at Wardha: Summer 22 to 40°C, Winter 20 to 33°C

Altitude of Wardha: 234 metre

STD code of Wardha: 07152

A charming city in the Wardha district of the state of Maharashtra, Wardha is located to the South of the River Wardha. Founded in 1866, Wardha is a relatively modern place and mainly known for its cotton production. However, Wardha region has rich historic connection and there have been settlements in the regions for many centuries. The area was ruled by many kingdoms such as the Satavanahas, Mauryas, Sungas and Vakatakas and each have left their mark on the place. The place has subsequently been ruled by Muslim Dynasties and finally by the British Empire.

There are many places of tourist interest that one can visit in the city of Wardha. In fact, the historic city of Wardha was an important part of the independence movement and Gandhi’s Ashram is located in the city as well. This Ashram has now been converted to a national institute and it is worth visiting. You can see a spinning wheel that was used by Mahatama Gandhi , and his spectacles as well. The Ashram also has a chronographic collection of photos that depict the life of Mahatma Gandhi. The nearby city of Sewagram is known as the as the sister city of Wardha and their histories are entwined.

Incredible India! Zanskar - A Little Explored Destination of J & K

Fast Facts About Zanskar

Located in the State of : Jammu and Kashmir

District: Kargil

Famous As: Scenic, Trekking

Languages Spoken: Ladakhi, Hindi

Best Time to Visit: June to September

Average Temperature at Zanskar: Summer 5 to 40°C, Winter -14 to 24°C

Altitude of Zanskar: 4950m

STD code of Zanskar: 01985

Often referred to as a lost land (little explored land), Zanskar is nestled in between the majestic Himalayan ranges, bestowed with perfidious countryside and a rigid life style. A devour of pretty landscape and cultural diversity, Zanskar is blessed by nature with pungent, therapeutic foliage and aromatic plants. Zanskar is divided in to three sub-regions of Sham, Stod and Lungnak. With its magnificient glaciers, deep woods, enchanting valleys and tedious trekking paths, Zanskar valley presents a enjoyable outlook of nature.

Buddhist Monastries in Zanskar

The picturesque land of Zanskar is a haven of thriving Buddhist monasteries, which displays elegant architecture and traditional richness. Spread over a vast expansion of 5000 square kilometers, this region is not accessible for most part of the year owing to the intense snowstorms. The peak stockades of this lost valley hold a number of very old but lively monasteries. Some of these establishments have revolved around secluded caverns that are used by celebrated Buddhist saints for protracted ruminations in search of enlightenment and knowledge.

Trekking in Zanskar

Highly acclaimed for its adventurous trekking paths, Zanskar offers wonderful opportunities in challenging activities, which could not be equated with anything else. The most spectacular trekking events in the entire world, The Chadar trek in Zanskar is to be experienced at least once in a lifetime. The mesmerizing journey through the frozen Zanskar River is in fact a voyage to the heart of this isolated place. This impressive ramble pursues the conventional trading course through the Zanskar Ravine. This gorge, which is impenetrable throughout the summer, is sustenance to the outer world in the pits of winter.

Jeep Safari In Zanskar

The dash of escapades can be added by Jeep Safaris through the rough roads of this craggy yet eye-catching valley. Jeep safari through the remotest interiors of this great land would provide one with the exhilarating opportunity to intermingle with the locales. The natural beauty of an unspoiled landscape with breath taking scenery of marvelous glaciers makes a spectacular panorama.

Incredible India! Little Explored Destination: Balasore - Orissa

Fast Facts About Balasore

Located in the State of : Orissa

District: Balasore

Famous As : Historical Place

Languages Spoken: Oriya & Hindi

Best Time to Visit Balasore: September to March

Average Temperatures at Balasore: Summer 28 to 37°C, Winter 19 to 32°C

STD code of Balasore: 06782

Known for its historic significance, Balsore is a small town in the Balasore district of Orrisa. Also called Baleswar or Baleshwar, Balasore is set close to the Bay of Bengal and also the famous Chandipur Beach. Once served as the early settlement of British East India Company, Balasore is an old town and noted for its scenic beauty and tourist attractions like temples, historical places, tombs and a few hills. The noted temples located in and around Balasore are Gopinatha Temple, Biranchinarayan Temple and Lagula Narasimha Dev.

Many myths are linked with the Kshirachora Gopinatha Temple. The town is also home to a tomb of a Sufi saint. Other places of interest include Asta Duraga and Budhar Chandi. The Chandipur Beach is known for its resorts and the shallow seas attract many visitors. It is located at a distance of 30 kilometers from the town of Balasore. Panchalingeshwar and Chillka Lake are other places of tourist interest. Balasore is also a place to savour the exotic cuisines that one should try during the visit to the town.

Best Time to Visit Balasore

The district of Balasore experiences a tropical monsoon climate and the conditions are wet for a few months of the year. The place experiences three main seasons and they are summer, monsoon and winter seasons. Summers (March to June) are hot and high temperatures are to be expected. The monsoon season (June to September) is extensive and one can expect rains for more than 62 days in the year. The winter season (December to February) is comfortable and this is a good time to visit the place.

How to Reach Balasore

The district headquarters of Balasore is about 207 kilometers from Orissa’s capital city Bhubaneswar. You can easily reach the place using buses and taxis.

By Air: The closest airport is Biju Patnaik Airport in Bhubaneshwar, which is well connected to many cities across the country. There are a few airline operators that offer services from cities such as Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore to the airport. From the airport you can take a taxi to reach the town of Balasore. They cost around Rs 7 per kilometer for the trip. The drive time is around 4 hours. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata (212 km) is the nearest major airport from Balasore.

By Train: Balasore Railway Station has excellent connectivity with almost every part of the country through express and mail trains. You can one reach Balasore from several cities such as Chennai, Howrah, Bangalore, New Delhi, Kolkata, Puri, Bhubaneswar and Jaipur.

By Bus: Good roads including state highways connect Balasore with rest of Orissa, and nearby states of West Bengal, Bihar and Andhra Pradesh. Buses are available from some nearby cities and towns and these are also a good option. Rates differ according to the distance travelled.

Incredible India! Little Explored Destination: Adoor - Kerala

Fast Fasts About Adoor

Located in the State of : Kerala

District: Pathanamthitta

Famous for : Temples

Languages Spoken: Malayalam

Best Time to Visit Adoor: All through the year

Average Temperatures at Adoor: Summer 25 to 45°C, Winter 16 to 25°C

STD code of Adoor: 04734

Situated in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, halfway between the cities of Trivandrum and Ernakulam. The town of Adoor is also famous for its rich and bustling culture, and it is one of cultural capitals in the state of Kerala. However, the town has got national and international fame for housing the Parthasarathy Temple: Also called the Sree Parthasarathy Temple, this temple is dedicated to the main deity Lord Krishna, who is also known by his other name ‘Parthasarathy’ which literally translates into ‘the charioteer of Arjuna’. This temple is the oldest temple in the region that is dedicated to Lord Krishna.

There are many other prominent temples in and around Adoor, thus making it an important destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. Some of the other noted temples in Adoor are Sreedharma Sastha Temple in Chennampallil, the Maha Vishnu Temple in Elamannoor, the Trichenda Mangalam Mahadeva Temple in Peringanad, and the Sreenarayanapuram Temple in Manakala. After exploring the temples of Adoor, you can pay a visit to Chandanapally Valiyapally Church, which lies around 10 kilometers away from Adoor. There are many other churches in the region as well that are of religious and historical importance, including Adoor Immanuel Marthoma Church and St. Mary’s Orthodox Church.

How To Reach Adoor

Reaching to the town of Adoor is easy, as many buses are available from all the nearby regions. You can also opt for trains and flights to the city of Kochi, from where you can travel to the town of Adoor through bus.

By Air: Kochi International Airport is the nearest major airport, which is about 125 kms away from the town of Adoor. The airport is served by many flights from major cities of India and also some international destinations.

By Train: The nearest railway stations in the city of Kochi are the Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town railway stations. Ernakulam Junction is a major station that has frequent trains to all cities including New Delhi, Trivandrum, Mangalore, Patna, Trichy, Chennai and Mumbai.

By Bus: Buses are available to the town of Adoor from Trivandrum, Ernakulam, and Kochi. You will easily be able to avail buses to Adoor from all the following destinations including Kayamkulam, Punaloor, Pathanamthitta, Kottarakkara, Guruvayoor, Chavara, Kollam, and Karunagapally. Bus fares for local travel (within the state) may cost around Rs 50 to 100. Both air conditioned and non air conditioned buses will be available from Bangalore to Adoor. Non air conditioned coaches will cost around Rs 600/ per trip, while air conditioned coaches will cost around Rs 750/.

Incredible India! Less Explored Destination: Adilabad - Andhra Pradesh

Fast Facts about Adilabad

Located in the State of : Andhra Pradesh

District: Adilabad

Famous for: Waterfall, Temple

Languages Spoken: Telugu, English and Hindi

Best Time to Visit Adilabad: October to March

Average Temperture at Adilabad: Summer 32 to 40°C, Winter 20 to 33°C

STD code of Adilabad: 08732

A less explored destination of India, Adilabad is situated in the state of Andhra Pradesh just about 300 kms away from Hyderabad. Adilabad has become a popular tourist destination in recent years due to its natural and breathtaking scenery, and its calm and green surroundings. In fact, if you are looking is to relax after hectic schedule in office and home, Adilabad is a perfect getaway. Adilabad is visited by leisure travelers, family vacationers as well as adventure buffs in large numbers.

Besides sightseeing, you can indulge in leisure activities like bird watching and general trekking. You can even picnic in the forest cover, along with your family and can spend some quiet times alone, at peace. Adilabad is also located near two very prominent waterfalls that the region is famous for. These two waterfalls are the Pochera waterfall, and the Kuntala waterfall. The Kuntala waterfall is the highest waterfall in the entire state of Andhra Pradesh. The Pochera waterfall, on the other hand, is essentially a smaller waterfall, but the scenery around the falls is beautiful and you can experience some picture perfect moments with your family or friends here.

Best Time to visit Adilabad

The town of Adilabad has a tropical climate divided into seasons of summer, winter, and monsoon. Summers (April to June) are very hot, and travel during this time should be avoided. You can visit the town of Adilabad during the winter (October to January), as this is the best time to visit this place.

Adilabad experiences frequent rain showers during the monsoon season (July to September). These three months experience heavy rainfall. Make sure that you carry along proper raincoats and other monsoon gear if you’re planning to visit Adilabad during this time.

Place to See Around Adilabad

A visit to Adilabad gives you a wonderful chance to see the natural wonders and the religious sites as well. While visiting Adilabad you can explore the tourist attractions like Kadam Dam, Kuntala Waterfalls, Kawai Wildlife Sanctuary, Sivaram Wildlife Sanctury and Basar Sawarswati Temple.

How to Reach Adilabad

By Air: The nearest airports are located in Hyderabad and Nagpur. Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad is about 280 kms. away which is served by frequent domestic flights from all major cities of India.

By Rail: Adilabad has its own railway station, which is served by trains from rest of Andhra Pradesh and other parts of the country.

By Road: Good motorable roads connect Adilabad with other parts of Andhra Pradesh and nearby states. Buses to Adilabad ply from all the nearby places, and the main center from where a lot of buses to Adilabad ply is from Hyderabad. The city of Hyderabad has regular buses to the town of Adilabad, including semi deluxe buses and deluxe buses. The buses that ply to the town of Adilabad are primarily non air conditioned, as not many air conditioned coaches are available in the region. Bus fares may vary from around Rs 200 to 250 for a deluxe and non air conditioned coach. Sleeper coaches that are available may charge more.

Exclusive: Summer Hideouts in India

Summer season is presently at peak in most parts of India, and people in plains have become faded with scorching heat. The high temperature, and frequent power failure annoy people and altogether made the life chaotic. However, a trip to summer hideouts (hill stations) of India is a good idea to enjoy a refreshing break from the boring city life.


India’s vast land is dotted with a number of hill stations, and many of them have been developed by the British in 1800s and 1900s. Set thousands metres above the sea level, the hill stations of India enjoys pleasant climate round the year, and offer plenty of sightseeing and leisure activities options. So, plan a trip to the summer hideouts of India, reach and unfurl the un-spoilt natural beauty of this enchanting place and make your vacation a lifetime experience.

Beas River in Manali

Manali: Considered as a wonder for a visitor, Manali is a calm and tranquil hill town, situated 40 kms north of the popular Kullu Valley. Set at an altitude of 1928 m, above the sea level, Manali is an excellent destination for both common tourists as well as the die-hard adventure enthusiasts. Manali is blessed with several gifts like a beautiful landscape, dense thick pine and deodar forests, ice-capped peaks, steep cliffs, rolling valleys, adventure and mystery and lush meadows of wild flowers and fragrant fruit orchard in full bloom. Besides, the Beas River with clear water meanders through the town, making Manali truly a paradise on earth for any traveller. Some of the attractions include Hadimba Temple, Tibetan Monastery, Manali Club House, Vashisth Hot Water Springs, Mountaineering Institute etc.

Nainital: Once used to be the home of noted conservationist Jim Corbett, Nainital is now popular as the 'Lake City of India'. Situated at an altitude of around 1938 metres, Nainital is the largest and one of the most popular hill resorts of Kumaon region. A glittering jewel in the Himalayan necklace, Nainital has grown around a 'tal' (mountain-lake), blessed with pristine natural beauty and an enchanting landscape.

Discovered in 1841 by a British, Lord Barron, Nainital is always bustling with tourists who flock the city from far and wide. Today, the life of Nainital revolves around the Naini Lake, which mirrors the sun playing hide and seek with the clouds and mountains. Attractions of Nainital include Naini Lake, Snow View, Astronomical Observatory, Hanuman Garhi and The Flatts.

Shimla: One of India's most popular hill stations, picturesque Shimla is the capital of northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Tourists in great numbers visit Shimla all throughout the year. A place gifted with an abundance of natural beauty, the landscape of Shimla is known for its great diversity. Shimla is spread across 12 kms along a ridge and overlooks some magnificent terraced hillsides and cultivations. The rich flora of the place includes dense forests of oak, fur, pine and rhododendron. While a few buildings bring back memories of the colonial past, gorgeous modern buildings also add more charm to the landscape. The views of snow clad mountain ranges of Himalayas from the place are most enchanting. Shimla has also emerged as a popular base for adventure sports like Trekking, Skiing, Fishing and Golf.

The Ridge, Shimla

Dharamsala: A small hill town and a municipal council, Dharamsala is situated in the upper reaches of the Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh. Dharamsala is better known as the home in exile of the Dalai Lama (in McLeodganj) and is divided into two parts namely Upper Dharamsala or McLeod Ganj (retains a British colonial atmosphere) and Lower Dharamsala (busy commercial centre). Although there is a difference of 9 km between Dharamsala and McLeodganj but the latter is considered the real heart of Dharamsala. With prayer flags fluttering and prayer wheels off the sidewalk, McLeodganj is also called the 'Little Lhasa', spreading the message of peace and harmony. Bestowed with thick pine and deodar forests, numerous shimmering streams, pleasant soothing air, spectacular surroundings, the nearby snowline, Dharamasala offers everything that a tourist expects from a hill resort. Besides, the ancient temples like Jawalamukhi, Brijeshwari and Chamunda situated in and around the town add more to your vacationing experience.


Munnar: A very famous hill station located some 130 kms. from Kochi in the state of Kerala. The place lies towards the east, in central Kerala and its borders coincide with that of Tamil Nadu state. The hill station is situated mainly in one of the taluks of Idukki district. One more famous hill station, Kodaikanal, lies nearby, around 90 kms from Munnar. The undulating terrain of Munnar are enchanting, with the low lying hills covered with bright flower meadows and the spread out tea plantations.

The place is located at an average altitude of about 1600 metres and contains one of the highest peaks in South India, Anamudi. The altitude and the nearby Arabian Sea accounts for the pleasant climate that prevails throughout the year. Munnar valley was developed by the Scottish planters in the early 20th century. The tea plantations is an important feature of Munnar. The plantations stand at heights from 4300 ft to 6100 ft above sea level.

Tea Gardens in Munnar

Dehradun: Also known as the 'Abode of Drona', Dehradun is the capital of newly created state of Uttaranchal or Uttarakhand. Set amidst the Great Indian Himalayan ranges, the charming city of Dehradun attracts thousands of tourists from Indian and abroad as well. Apart from a hill resort, Dehradun is also the headquarters of several National Institutes and Organizations such as ONGC, Forest Research Institute, Survey of India etc. Dehradun is home to some of India's noted educational and training institutes like Indian Military Academy, Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy (IGNFA), Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) etc. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a common traveller or looking for a spiritual vacation, Dehradun offers everything according to your choice.

Darjeeling: This charming hill station is located near the Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bhutan borders in eastern Indian state of West Bengal. The natural beauty of this hill station is truly mesmerizing. Many opine that in Darjeeling, nature is at its best. Be it the snow capped Himalayan mountain ranges surrounding Darjeeling, the rich flora of the place or the breathtaking sunrise and sunset views, Darjeeling is a captivating destination from all aspects. Lush green tea gardens planted at high altitudes in the mountain slopes further adds colour to the Darjeling landscape. Coupled with the beauty of the place is the hospitality of Darjeeling's smiling resilient people which is sure to fill the heart of every tourist with great warmth.
 
 

 

A view of Darjeeling hill station

 

Ooty: The colloquial of Ootacamund is a popular hill station of South India in the Nilgiri District of Tamil Nadu. Also known as, Udhagamandalam, it is a municipality and the district capital. The town lies at an altitude of 2240 m and has been remarked as the 'queen of hill stations' by India’s first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Ooty covers an area of 36 square km and contains the highest point of Southern India, the Dodabetta Peak. The natural surroundings of Ooty involve landscapes, dense forest reserves and national parks. This hill station is popular for its tea farming as well as oil extraction industry, wherein the oil is obtained from its eucalyptus trees, lemon grass, geranium, clove and camphor.

A major attraction is the mountain train journey to Ooty on a ratchet and pinion track. The journey covers 46 km and the train starts from Kallar, near Mettupalayam and passes through steep curves and long tunnels along deep ravines full of green vegetation, streams and tea gardens. The Ooty Lake is a major attraction of the hill station and is popular for boating. Another famous attraction includes the Government Museum, which contains the history of the Nilgiri District. Other popular tourist attractions of Ooty include the Deer Park, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, the Rose Garden, Ooty Botanical Garden, the Stone House, etc.

Jammu & Kashmir: The northern most state of India, Jammu & Kashmir is blessed with abundant natural wonders. The natural beauty of Kashmir is indescribable - it is a valley full of joy and happiness with tenderly mountains rising far to protect the lands, meadows with the fragrance and the gentle sun, the drooping snow and the chilly winters, apple orchards and the beautiful lakes; it's cozy, it's warm and always smiling. Kashmir is a major tourist destination and people come for more than one reason. Mesmerized by her beauty, many poets have termed Kashmir as a jannat or paradise on earth.

This heaven of poets brought on to the earth consists of lush green valleys, snow-capped mountains, vivacious rivers, clear blue water lakes, beautiful waterfalls and alpine meadows. Also dotting the picturesque landscape are famous temples like Vaishno Devi and Amarnath, attractive mosques and monasteries. Kashmir is also credited for her rich composite culture. The Kashmir valley has largely Muslim population, Hindus are spread in the plains of Jammu while besides being peaceful tourist destinations Leh and Ladakh are primarily Buddhist destinations.

The old houses on a hill at Leh, Ladakh

Mount Abu: Despite being located in the desert land of Rajasthan, the physiography of Mount Abu bears quite a distinction from the rest of the state. The places features productive lands and a pleasant climate. The place lies, comparatively, at a higher altitude and this is the lone hill station in the region around. The place is what can best be described as Cool. The road that leads to the place is rocky and arid. One finds a lot of odd shaped rocks piled along the roadside. Mt Abu is a very famous pilgrimage centre in the state. You can see some important shrines and temples of Jains and Hindus at Mount Abu.

Travel Books: Your Companion (Guide) for India Trip

Books have always been a close companion of human being as they help you to pass a good time in acquiring knowledge and know the new things. Likewise, the Travel Books are also a good way to virtually visit a new place and know almost all types of information about a particular place. With the growth in India’s travel & tourism industry, many publishers came with travel books and magazines that became a guide for travelers visiting various parts of the vast country.

Simply, a travel book captures place in photographs and atmospheric texts. The places are presented in inspirational, inviting and beautiful way, with cultural insights, key facts and maps. The text is brought in a very informative way and carries the essence of a particular place in the best possible way. Thus, the travel books prove to be the worthy companions of the travellers in their journey to a strange land.

I as your travel pal suggest some of the handy Travel Books :

Lonely Planet the Travel Book (India): When it comes to travel books, the name of Lonely Planet strikes first. It writes the best travel guides and imparts useful information. One can find that India is as dynamic as it is enduring and other ingredients that describe India in the best possible way. Thereby adding to the before travel knowledge of the travellers.

Author - Sarina Singh

Click to know more about Lonely Planet

India Travel Guide: Let no travel tension haunt your mind, set for a tension free journey to India with India Travel Guide. India Travel Guide proves to be a great companion for the tourists visiting India. Get to know more about India and its diversity, view full length colour photographs and check out the up to date information related to India. Just flip through the pages.

Author - Lonely Planet Publications

Click to know more about India Travel Guide

Spectrum Guide To India: This book proves to be of great help for the first time visitors of India and provides a comprehensive and detailed description of the country together with all essential data that may be required by the tourists, students or the business visitors. Maps of various destinations of India can also be very fruitful for the travellers.

Author - Interlink Publishing

Click to know more about Spectrum Guide To India

India Insight Guide: This guide is very much noted for its superb production of short essays on contemporary topics related to India, which updates the first time travellers with the environment of the place well.

Author - Jane Hutchings

Click to know more about India Insight Guide

Exciting India (A Visual Journey, Welcome To India Land Of Colour And Contrasts) : This travel pictorial of magnificent India captures all the amazing and awe-inspiring sights of India and helps you to choose and know about some of the worth knowing destinations of India.

Author - Bikram Grewal and Henry Wilson

Click to know more about Exciting India

The Rough Guide To India 6: This book turns out to be a Bible for any visitor to India. It is essential handbook for an extraordinary country like India which provides frequent up to date information with maps and colourful presentations and other relevant and practical information related to this place.

Author - Nick Edwards, Devdan Sen, Mike Ford, Beth Wooldridge, David Abram (Editor), Daniel Jacobs (Editor)

Click to know more about The Rough Guide To India 6

Andaman & Nicobar Islands - A Paradise amidst vast Sea

A storehouse of peerless beauty, the emerald green twin island of Andaman and Nicobar stretch from north to south on the surface of Bay of Bengal. Here, the days are bathed in bright sunshine and fresh gentle breeze all the time. These altogether attract tourists who want to recharge their body and collect some new ideas. In addition to these, the canopy of blue sky, cool blue waters of the Bay of Bengal, silvery beaches, gaily coloured fishes frolicking in the shallow waters, exquisite coral and aquatic plants, illustrate that like an expert architect nature has skilfully build the Andaman and Nicobar islands.

Constituted by a union of 572 islands, Andaman and Nicobar spread over an area of 8,249 sq. kms. Of the 572 islands, only 36 are inhabited and rest are still uninhabited. The Andamanese town of Port Blair is the capital of Andaman and Nicobar islands. The island groups of the Andaman and Nicobar, separate the Andaman Sea to the east from the Indian Ocean. Nicobar islands are situated south of the Andamans and 121 kms from the Little Andaman Island. Andaman and Nicobar islands are 193 kms away from Cape Negrais in Myanmar, 1190 kms from Chennai, 1255 kms from Kolkata.

Climate - Andaman and Nicobar islands have a tropical climate that never reaches to extreme. During the monsoon seasons of May to mid September and November to mid December, medium to heavy rain is recorded. Rains and tropical storms in late summer often cause heavy damage to these islands. In summers, the temperature in Andaman and Nicobar islands reaches to a maximum of 31°C while it drops to a minimum of 23°C.

Best Time to Visit - December to April.

Tourist Destinations of Andaman and Nicobar

Andaman and Nicobar islands can be said a land of sea, sand and surf. Port Blair, the major town on the Andaman and Nicobar islands serves as the administrative capital. Port Blair has a number of markets, where you can buy local handicrafts, clothes, wooden items etc. Apart from shopping markets, Port Blair also houses a number of tourist attractions like the Cellular Jail, Anthropological museum, Marine museum, Fisheries museum etc. From Port Blair, you can also visit the popular islands of Neil and Havelock, which are easily accessible from the capital town.

People & Culture of Andaman and Nicobar

Referred as the ‘land of tribals’, Andaman and Nicobar is home to the most primitive tribes of the world. Of the six aboriginal tribes found in the islands, five are primitive tribes that include the Shompens, the Onges, the Sentinelese, the Jarawas and the Great Andamanese. People from East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), Sri Lanka, Mynamar and South Indians from Tamil Nadu and Kerala have come to live in Andaman for last few decades. Andamanese culture is a blend of several cultures and you will also find the touch of Indian culture. Fishing is the main source of livelihood for Andamanese people and the tribes are dependent on hunting.

Fairs and Festivals of Andaman and Nicobar

Andaman and Nicobar are mainly the home of the tribal people, but in these islands you will observe a unique culmination of several Indian cultures. Among the various festivals, most popular include Durga Puja, Janmasthami, Holi, Deewali, Onam, Pongal and Christmas. The fortnight long Island Tourism Festival is the main festival of the Andaman and Nicobar islands, which highlights excellent art and crafts, unique marine life and traditional dances and songs of Port Blair.

Cuisine of Andaman and Nicobar

Sea food like lobster, prawn and several other sea-fish dishes constitute the principle cuisine of Andaman and Nicobar islands. Most of the islands hotels offer delicious sea fish dishes at a reasonable price. Apart from sea-fish, you can also savour delectable South Indian food at various eating joints. Few hotels and restaurant serve Chinese food, Continental and Western cuisine as well.

Monuments & Museums of Andaman and Nicobar

Due to their historic connection, Andaman and Nicobar islands boast of a number of magnificent monuments. Most important forts and monuments of the islands include Cellular Jail, Viper Island, Ross Island etc. Famous museums of Andaman and Nicobar islands include the Anthropological Museum, National Memorial, Fisheries Museum, Samudrika (Naval Marine Museum), Forest Museum, Zoological Survey of India Museum. You can visit these museums by paying nominal charges.

Beaches of Andaman and Nicobar

Beaches are prime attraction of Andaman and Nicobar that make these islands an ideal beach holiday destination. Most popular beaches of Andaman and Nicobar islands include the Corbyn’s Cove Tourism Complex, Radhanagar Beach, Karmatang Beach, Harminder Bay Beach, Ramnagar Beach etc.

Wildlife of Andaman and Nicobar

Most of Andaman and Nicobar area is covered with canopied rain forests where you can see 3,000 plant species including mangroves, woody climbers, epiphytes (100 orchids, 130 ferns), palms, timbers (teak, mahogany, Andamant paduk etc.) and several other variety of tropical forests. Andaman and Nicobar also provide shelter to diverse Marine fauna including tropical fish and coral. These islands have 96 sanctuaries spreading over 466.218 sq kms and nine National Parks spreading over 1153.938 sq kms.

Adventure in Andaman and Nicobar

Blessed with magical Bay of Bengal all around, wonderful tropical vegetation with lush green dense forests and mangrove marshland on the water’s edge, Andaman and Nicobar offer plenty of adventure options for adventure freaks. Water Sports like Snorkelling and Diving, Surfing etc. top the adventure chart in Andaman and Nicobar islands. In addition to these, you can also enjoy trekking on thrilling tails of the islands. Island Camping is another good option which is attracting lots of foreigner to Andaman and Nicobar islands.

Shopping in Andaman and Nicobar

Port Blair is the main shopping centre, where you can shop multi hued corals and seashell souvenirs. Aberdeen Bazaar in Port Blair is the main commercial centre of Andaman and Nicobar islands. Other shopping centres are situated at Prem Nagar, Goalghar, Delanipur and Junglighat, all of these are just 3-4 kms away from Aberdeen Bazaar.

Transportation in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

By Air: Andaman and Nicobar islands have their domestic airport at Port Blair. Regular flights operate from Kolkata and Chennai to Port Blair airport. Indian Airlines, Jet Airways and Air Deccan have frequent flights to and from Port Blair.

By Ship: You can also reach Andaman by sea. Cruising through the Bay of Bengal is a thrilling experience and you will come across a number of surprises on the way. Frequent passenger ship services are available to Port Blair from Chennai, Kolkata and Vishakhapatnam.

Local Transport: Buses, taxis, auto rickshaws, motorcycles, bicycles are available for local transport across the islands. In addition to these, the Directorate of Shipping Services operates inter-island foreshore and harbour ferry services to cater to the needs of inter-island travellers.