Cultural Vacations in India

India is a vast country comprises of many small villages, towns and metros. The 28 states and 7 Union Territories of India have their own unique culture and traditions. From the north to south, and east to west you will observe a vast difference in the lifestyle, eating habits and dress senses of the people. Despite such a huge difference, Indians are bounded by the unique bond of culture and tradition that fascinate all residing across the world.

Do you like to travel to some ancient city of India, one that you watched, say in a documentary show on your television; ruins and remnants everywhere that makes you wonder how it would have been hundreds of years ago? Would you like to explore some ancient monuments of India; the glory of which have been preseved by the popular legends; preserved in the cross continental history books; magnificent forts, palaces, tombs build with all the grandeur and style?

Visit India and explore its hidden treasures including cultural traits on your own this vacation. Meet the charming people of India, know more about their traditions, bear witness to their practices and customs and share with them your own experiences. The culture and traditions of India can be observed in some prized historic destinations including historical cities, ancient forts, monuments, palaces, temples, mosques, gurudwaras, tombs and more.

Some of the key destinations / attractions are as follows:

1. Cultural Vacations in Delhi

• Old Fort or Purana Qila
• Qutab Minar
• Red Fort or Lal Qila
• Humayun’s Tomb

2. Cultural Vacations in Rajasthan

• Amber Fort
• Bikaner City
• Jaipur City
• Jaisalmer Fort
• Jaisalmer City
• Chittaurgarh Fort
• Mehrangarh Fort
• Taragarh Fort
• Jaigarh Fort
• Hawa Mahal

3. Cultural Vacations in Uttar Pradesh

• Taj Mahal
• Red Fort or Agra Fort
• Bada Imambara
• Fatehpur Sikri
• Jehangir Palace
• Sikandra

4. Cultural Vacations in Andhra Pradesh

• Charminar
• Golconda Fort
• Warangal
• Tirupati

5. Culutral Vacations in Tamil Nadu

• Meenakshi Temple

Eco Lodges / Resorts in India

Eco lodges / resorts emphasise on the enjoyment of travelling without causing harm to the enviornment or natural surroundings. Though Eco lodges / resorts are generally perched in remote locations, they are surprisingly luxurious and always comfortable. The vast country of India has a surplus of ecological sites and ecological environments and that has resulted in the provisions through out the sub continent. But to avail these places, services and all facilities one needs to have a fair idea of the places where they are situated and what types of amenities and services offered by such properties.

Are you interested to know where one can avail all these services and amenities? If yes, then I am providing you a rough idea that virtually takes you to small but luxurious hut, at a famous wildlife sanctuary of the country. You will have to stay in the night to experience amidst the jungle environment; there may be distant noises of the wild, may be a visit by any woodland friend, a very natural setting and more.

You will surely prefer staying in a lodge inside a national park, rather than travelling kilometres and avail services of any hotel? Additional advantage is that while staying in an eco lodge, you get a chance to live some of your moments with some native population.

Some of the noted Eco-lodges / Resorts are as follows:

 

Bandhavgarh National Park

Tiger’s Den Resort

Tiger Trail's Safari Lodge

Nature Heritage Resort

Bharatpur National Park

Chandra Mahal Haveli

Laxmi Vilas Palace

Corbett National Park

Corbett Hideway

Corbett Riverside Resort

Infinity Resorts

Tiger Camp

The Wild Safari Lodge, Corbett

Panna National Park

Ken River Lodge

Lawania Jungle Resort

Jass Trident Hotel

Periyar Wildlife Santuary

Taj Garden Retreat

Spice Village

Ranthambore National Park

- Tiger Den Resort

- Tiger Moon Resort

- Sher Bagh Resort

Sariska National Park

- Sariska Palace Hotel

- Sariska Tiger Heaven

An Overview of Indian Culture

Majestic Snow - clad peaks reaching for the sky, shimmering blue lakes, lush green forests, rare flowers, breathtaking scenic beauty and sweeping panoramic view. Wow! everything about India is so beautiful and its diverse unique culture adds cherry to the cake. The Indian culture has been the outcome of many absorptions of customs, traditions and ideas from both raiders and immigrants. It has not died out with the throes of modernity wafted across the Indian Ocean. In spite of the great cultural diversity the entire country is bound as a civilization due to its common history.

 

Whenever we talk about the culture of India a flash of vivid images of flowing saris, sounds of the crowded bazaars and exuding aroma of curry and sandalwood evoke in our minds. The quality ingredients that have played a huge role in making the culture of India gain international recognition are:

Festivals:  India is the land of some of the most fascinating festivals which adorns the canvass called life with rainbow colours. Most of the festivals celebrated here have religious associations like Holi, Dussera, Janmasthmi, Hanuman Jayanti, Ganesh Chaturthi, Muharram and Deewali which are enjoyed in most part of the country with pomp and gaiety. Pongal- Sankranti are harvest festivals celebrated with full fervour in south India. Whereas Karwa Chauth is strictly observed by the Hindu married woman. Festivals give people a reason to smile.

Music: Music has always enjoyed a pivotal role in the lives of the Indians. The range of musical phenomenon extends from simple melodies to the most developed systems of classical music in the world. Music also held a significant role during the pre Vedic age as evidence of several strings and wind instruments, drums and cymbals have been found in the Vedas. Ragas on which our Indian music is based came in to existence in the 10th century. By the 16th century the distinction between the North Indian ( Hindustani ) and South Indian ( Carnatic ) music was recognized in a full fledged manner. Classical Indian music entered a new phase in the 1960's and began to acquire Western students. The sitar of Pd. Ravi Shankar was heard on the Beatles' album. Satyajit Ray, the great Indian director through his neo-realist films brought the Indian classical music to the attention of the Westerners. Indian genres like filmi and bhangra have also gained momentum in the west.

Dance: The classical Indian dance forms have their audiences world wide. Each dance form of India represents the culture and ethos of a particular region. Bharatnatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Manipuri, Kucchipudi, Bhangra and Kathakali are the various dance forms prevalent in India. Besides these there are certain Indian folk dances that are the true representatives of the rich culture of different lands of India.

Dressings: Dresses in India are worn according to the region. However sarees among Indian women and dhoti among Indian men are the everyday dress form with a slight variation in various regions. Working class and Muslims wear a Lungi. In Punjab loose- fitting pajamas called Shalwar are worn. In Bengal and Maharastra sarees and dhotis are the major dress forms but the wearing style varies.

Cuisine: The Indian cuisine has undergone a great change with the passage of time. Wheat, lentils, rice and occasionally meats were the earliest Indian food. The modern Indian cuisine offers great variety and each reason has its own distinctive flavours. North Indian staple food consists of Rotis, Rice, Dal, Curry, Yogurt, Chutney and Achars. On the other hand south India dishes comprises sambhar, dosa, Rasam, Yogurt and Curries. Fish is quite popular in the coastal areas of West Bengal, Orissa and Kerala. Street food like Panipuri, Bhelpuri, Samosa and Vada are enjoyed in every nook and corner of India. It is said that vegetarianism gained importance with the spread of Buddhism and Jainism.

Art: The paintings and sculpture of India has remain a source of inspiration for many. The earliest Indian paintings were the rock paintings of the pre- historic times. Cave paintings of Ajanta and Ellora exhibits the love for nature and God. Madhubani painting, Rajputana painting, Tanjore painting and Mughal painting are some of the specialties of India.

Architecture: The most significant achievement of Indian civilisation is its architecture. The Taj Mahal of Agra, temple complexes of Khajuraho and Vijaynagara leaves the spectators spellbound. However the real beginnings of the Indian architecture can be dated to the advent of Buddhism, during the reign of king Asoka. The Buddhist art and architecture flourished with the construction of Buddhist monasteries and stupas. The contribution of the southern school of architecture cannot be unnoticed and the notable amongst them are the rock- cut temples of Mahabalipuram and the temples of Kanchipuram.

Cinema: Indian film industry holds the pride of being one of the oldest in the world. Dadasaheb Phalke, commonly called the father of Indian cinema made and screened the first film of India- Raja Harishchandra which became a huge commercial success and motivated other people thereby giving birth to umpteen classic directors like Bimal Roy, Satyajit Ray, Hrishikesh Mukherjee , Raj Kapoor and Guru Dutt. Satyajit Ray, Bimal Roy and Guru Dutt took the Indian cinema to the new zenith and gave it the international recognition by making neo- realist films inspired by Vittorio De Sica's " Bicycle Thieves".The Neo-Realist cinema captured the real life of humans and did not regard them as superheroes in fabricated situations.

Literature: India has always used writing as a major means of putting across any piece of idea or any other expression. It has a long tradition of poetry and prose writing. The Ramayana and Mahabharata are the two Indian epics that are not only the epics of India and Hinduism but also serves as the folk epics of other Asian countries like Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia.

Safari tours in India

Many a times while watching a show on National Geographic Channel or Animal Planet, we are moved by the thrilling encounters people on safari have. There is an intense feeling that makes us crave about the experiences these people have. Do you feel it too, like going for a safari into some hinterlands searching for a known being, a creature like Tiger, or say you want to make it through the dunes, leaving behind an impression that will last long?

Do you wish to explore the off beaten tracks, hilly terrain, simmering desert sands by riding on a camel or an elephant back. If yes then, India is a perfect place for you. The vast topography of India is dotted with thick lush green forests, lofty snow covered peaks, the Great Indian Thar Desert and many other natural attractions.

Though covering the natural attractions on foot is really tough, but you can easily explore them by a ride on camel or elephant back or by having a fun-filled ride on open roof jeeps.

Some of the popular sites for safaris in India are as follows:

Jeep Safari in India
- Jeep Safari in Leh - Ladakh
- Jeep Safari in Uttaranchal
- Jeep Safari in Manali
- Jeep Safari in Thar Desert

Camel Safari in India
- Camel Safari in Rajasthan
- Camel Safari in Ladakh

Elephant Safari in India
- Elephant Safari in Corbett National Park
- Elephant Safari in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Elephant Safari in Amber Fort in Jaipur
- Elephant Safari in Kaziranga National Park

Romantic Holidays in India

Are you looking for a truly romantic place, a place where you and your partner can sit down for a while and express to your hearts full? If yes then, India is dotted with numerous such romantic destinations including serene beaches and picturesque hill stations.

How about a serene beach and a stroll in the moon lit night, a candle light dinner in an open roof restaurant? Some moments next to the most beautiful monument you have come across with, that is symbolic of love and heightens your feelings and commitment? Or a place where legends of love have been created and recreated?

Or would you like to explore the wonderful shallow waters in a slow paced boat, through the lush nature in the tropical lands, capturing beautiful moments with the person who has been with you and who is going to be with you all your life?

Of course, you have started to dream about a romantic holiday. Don’t worry at all, just choose from the plethora of choices and head towards any romantic destination to enjoy a memorable holiday. For your convenience below I am providing a list of some of the popular romantic destinations of India with various themes.

Romantic Tropical Vacations
Andaman Nicobar
Lakshadweep
Pondicherry
Goa
Kerala

Romantic Hill Vacations
Manali
Kashmir
Nainital
Shimla
Devikulam
Sikkim
Munnar
Darjeeling
Mount Abu
Dehradun

Romantic Desert Vacations
Jaisalmer
Jodhpur Thar Desert
Bikaner

Romantic House Boat Vacations
Kerala
Jammu & Kashmir

Thiruvananthapuram - the capital city of Kerala

Quick Facts
Situated in : Kerala, 218 kms, south of Kochi
Major Attractions: Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Vizhinjam, Bhagawathy Temple
Ideal Time to Visit: October to February

Earlier known as Trivandrum, Thiruvananthapuram is the capital of Kerala. Thiruvananthapuram lies towards the southern end of the state on the low lying hills of the Western Coast of India, interspersed by ridges and lanes. Trivandrum is an ancient city the traces of which can be found as early as 1000 B.C. Even then the city was an established trade and commerce centre. The city was made the capital of Travancore in the year 1745 during the reign of Marthanda Varma. Presently, the city is one of the primary commercial and industrial areas located in the state of Kerala.

Trivandrum is dotted with a range of hotels. Budget hotels are most in number and located throughout the city. Some known hotels of Trivandrum are Muthoot Plaza Hotel, South Park Hotel, Hotel Saj Lucia, Hotel Residency Tower, Hotel Mascot and Hotel Pankaj. Trivandrum is connected with other city and states by all major means of transport. There are buses, trains and airways providing the services in the city.

Major Attractions of Trivandrum
Shree Padhmanabhaswamy Temple: Situated in the heart of the city, Shree Padhmanabhaswamy Temple is dedicated to 'Padmanabhaswamy', an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple is built in a typical Dravidian style, which is unusual for a temple in Kerala and features a tall gopuram. It happens to be one of the most revered places of Hindus and every year thousands of them reach the site to pay the homage and for offerings.

Bhagawathy Temple: One of the popular worshipping places in Kerala, Bhagawathy Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagawathy. The temple site is a great attraction during the festival days of Ponal Utsavam, which is celebrated for 10 days.

Kuthiramalika Palace Museum: The palace was built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal. The architecture of the palace represents typical Travancore style with incredible wood carving. The palace also features paintings and valuable articles belonging to the royal family, that have been preserved here.

Government Art Museum: The Government Art Museum or Napier Museum as it is popularly called has been built in the year 1880 in the honour of Lord Napier. The museum houses great archaeological and historical artifacts.

Vizhinjam: The place used to be a popular site for the Dutch and Portuguese traders. It is located south of Kovalam beach and represents a modern fishing harbour.

M.G.Road: The road is a popular shopping area located in the city. Sandalwood, brass and oil lamps are extensively sold in the markets here. A lot of general stores and arts, antiquities shops are located at M.G.Road. The Connemara Market is great shopping place here.

Kovalam Beach: Just 16 kms from the city is the popular Kovalam Beach. The beach comprises of a series of beaches, the best one being the southern most. The beach area has emerged as a great tourist place and is lined up with resorts and tourist cottages.

Baggage Rules of India

Introduction to Baggage Rules of India
Travelling has is one of the essential and favourite activity for people living worldwide. Usually people moving from one place to another place carry essential belongings with themselves. These personal belongings of immediate use that one carries while travelling in general, are termed as 'Baggage'. However, almost all nations of the world have fixed some special rules for ‘Baggage’.

Like other countries of the world, India has its own set of Baggage laws that are meant for people who are travelling to or from India. The Government of India has carved out certain baggage rules keeping in mind the liberty of the foreign tourists. Most importnatly Indian Government also ensure that the same rules and the associated freedom of carrying the genuine baggage shouldn't be misused by the International passengers, thereby not causing any injury to the commercial and economic interest of the country.

The Baggage Rules of India
The import and export of goods in India come under Exchange Management and Regulation Act 1992. According to the Regulation Act of 1992, one is liable to have an import or export license for the purpose of exporting and importing goods. Each article that is carried to or from India is also subject to the payment of custom duties at certain prescribed rates. The passengers also need to take a clearance from the concerned custom official before leaving or reaching the country. For this a declaration needs to be made by the owner describing about his possessions. This process is to be done on a prescribed form, according to which the rates of duty and tariff evaluation are determined.

The Baggage rules in India vary in different situations according to the number of days a passenger is to stay in the country, the country he/ she is travelling from and importantly the age of the passengers. Every traveller receives a duty free allowance by which they can bring various goods to the country without parting with any amount. However if the value of goods exceed the duty the allowance then a flat customs duty needs to be paid on the value exceeded.

Prohibited and Restricted Goods According to Indian Rules
Certain goods are prohibited and restricted for import/ export. Some of the goods are:
- Antiquities
- Counterfeit and pirated goods
- Firearms and ammunition
- Gold, silver and other ornaments
- Indian and Foreign currency in excess of prescribed limit. Indian currency should not exceed more than Rs.1,000
- Narcotic Drugs
- Pornographic Material
- Pet animals and birds
- Plants and their produce
- Radio Transmitters

For more information visit

http://www.cbec.gov.in/customs/cs-act/formatted-htmls/cs-rulef.htm

Kozhikode

Quick Facts

Popularly Known As: Calicut
Major Attractions: Kappad, Kozhikode Beach, Beypore, Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary
Suitable Time to Visit: September to February

Previously known as Calicut, Kozhikode is a beautiful town in Kerala State. Kozhikode is typically a coastal town sandwiched between the districts of Kannur and Malappuram. Set along the cool blue Arabian Sea, the town is renowned for important historic sites, serene beaches, beautiful hills, tranquil backwaters, wildlife sanctuaries and many other attractions. Kozhikode is easily accessible by air, rail and road transport. For accommodation there are budget, luxury and star category hotels.

Major Attractions in Kozhikode
Kozhikode Beach: A fun beach Kozhikode Beach is home to a number of attractions that include amusement parks, lighthouse and two very old piers. Also enjoy the astonishing sunset view from the beach.

Pazhassiraja Museum and Art Gallery: The museum has a great collection of arts and antiquities. You can see exhibits like ancient murals, ancient bronze articles, coins, models of temples and some megalithic monuments.

Kozhikode Planetarium: The panetarium is located at Jaffarkhan colony. The planetarium reveals the mysteries of the universe, the planets and the galaxies. Daily shows are hosted at the place, at 12 o'clock, 02 p.m., 04 p.m. and 06 p.m.

Velliyamkallu: The massive rock on the shores is considered as dangerous place that navigators were often afraid of. The rock used to be employed by the Marakkars as a vantage point against the invading Portuguese.

Kalipoika: Just 2 km from Kozhikode, Kalipoika offers unique boating experience. Some other attractions located nearby include Thikkoti Lighthouse, Kirtads, , Payyoli, Kakkayam, Varakkal Devi Temple, Tusharagiri, St. Mary's Church, Buddha Vihar, Peruvannamuzhi, Vellari Mala, Wayanad Ghats, Kuttiyadi, Iringal, Mananchira Maidan, Kuttichira, Mishkal Masjid, Pishakarikavu, Lokanarkavu Temple, Mannur Temple, Ponmeri, etc.

Beypore Harbour: Beypore Harbour is situated on Chaliyar River, around10 km south of Kozhikode. The old port is a popular attraction and features a community that has been building vessels for more than one and a half millennia.

Kappad Beach: Set approximately 16 km away from Kozhikode, the beautiful beach is popular as the place where Vasco De Gama landed on 27th May 1498. A monument had been established on the beach that commemorates the event. From the beach you can enjoy great view of the stretched out sea. Also visit the temple built on the rocks that reach out for the sea.

Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary: Situated 25 km away from Kozhikode, the bird sanctuary homes hundreds of bird species including terns, sea gulls, herons, sandpipers, etc.

Srinagar - a paradise on earth

Quick Facts
Situated in: Jammu & Kashmir
Popular As: Summer Capital of Jammu and Kashmir
Major Attractions : Dal Lake, Hazratbal Mosque, Nagin Lake, Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, Chasma Shahi, Jama Masjid, Museum etc .
Suitable Time To Visit : March to October

One of the most beautiful cities in India, Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir state. Set along the beautil Dal Lake and Jhelum River, Srinagar thronged by discerning tourist and honeymooners in large numbers. Besides serving as a base for holidays in Kashmir Valley, the city is also the starting point for trips to Ladakh region. Lakes are major attractions of Srinagar is famous for lakes popular among them are Dal Lake and Nagin Lake. These lakes are studded with numerous beautiful houseboats offering luxurious accommodation.

A stay in the houseboat is a must do activity while on a holiday in Srinagar. The tranquil city is also renowned for traditional handicrafts and dry fruits. Srinagar is a historic city and has it connection with numerous ancient rulers including the mighty Mughals. Any trip to Srinagar is incomplete without some shopping, don’t forget to buy traditional handicrafts and handloom items. On the whole, gear up for a thrilling vacation in Srinagar this vacation.

Srinagar is well-connected by air and road. Srinagar Airport is 13 km out of the city and connected to major cities of India. Jammu Tawi Railway Station is the nearest railhead from Srinagar. National Highway 1 A connects Sringar with Jammu. For local transport auto-rickshaws and taxis are available in Srinagar.

Plenty of accommodation options are available in Srinagar, opt a hotel of your choice and enjoy a memorable vacation amidst natural surroundings. Also take excursions to nearby places like Pahalgam (45 km), Gulmarg (56 km) and Amarnath (145 km)

Major Attractions in Srinagar
Dal Lake: Dal Lake is a maze of intricate waterways and it contains vegetable gardens, lotus plantations, shops and narrow lanes of water, bordered with the willow trees. Within the lake there are two islands Silver Island (Sona Lank) and Gold Island (Rupa Lank). There is a third island, Nehru Park, at the end of the main stretch of the lake side Boulevard. Don’t miss a shikara ride around the lake and visits to the Mughal Gardens and many other places on the lake side.

Nagin Lake: A beautiful lake, Nagin Lake is ringed by a number of trees. You will find a number of houseboats on this quieter and cleaner lake.

Shalimar Bagh: Shalimar Bagh is considered the most beautiful Mughal gardens in Srinagar. Built by Jehangir in 1616 for her wife Nur Jahan, the garden has four terraces and gets water from Harwan Lake through canal. During spring and autumn season numerous varieties of colourful flowers blooms inside the garden.

Nishat Bagh: Nishat Bagh is one of the largest of Mughal gardens, designed in 1633 by Nur Jahan's brother Asaf Khan,. Situated on the banks of Dal Lake with the Zabarwan hills in the backdrop, Nishat Bagh provides magnificent view across the lake to the Pir Panjal Mountain.

Chasma Shahi: Chasma Shahi is the smallest Mughal gardens in Srinagar. The garden lies well up the hillside, above the Nehru Memorial Park. Chasma Shahi is set in picturesque surrounding having a cool water spring.

Pari Mahal: Just above the Chasma Shahi is Pari Mahal. Originally an astronomical observatory, built by Mughal Emperor Dara Shikho, the palace’s arched terraces have been turned into a beautiful garden.

Hazratbal Mosque: On the North West Shore of Dal Lake is Hazratbal Mosque. Built of white marble the masjid is surrounded by a dome and enshrines a single hair of Prophet Muhammad.

Nasim Bagh: Located ahead of Hazratbal Mosque is Nasim Bagh. The garden was built by Emperor Akbar in 1586 and nowadays used by an engineering college.

Other attractions of Srinagar: Harwan Lake, Hari Parbat Fort, Jama Masjid, Shankaracharya Hill, Shri Pratap Singh Museum and Shah Hamdan Mosque are other attractions in and around Srinagar.

Rishikesh - The Abode of Sages in Uttarakhand

Quick Facts
Also Known As: Home of Sages
Major Attractions: Triveni Ghat, Lakshman Jhula, Gita Bhawan, Swargashram, Nilkanth Mahadev and Ram Jhula
Suitable Time To Visit: April to October

Rishikesh, literally meaning ‘abode of sages’ is a picturesque town, situated in Uttarakhand. Set at a height of 1,360 ft, above sea level, Rishikesh represents the site where Lord Vishnu vanquished the demon Madhu. Spreading over the banks of River Ganges, Rishikesh houses a number of temples and ashrams visited by a large number of pilgrims, adventure seekers and travellers every year. Rishikesh is a gateway to the Himalayas in the Tehri-Garhwal region of Uttarakhan and abounds with natural grandeur, complimented by scenic beauty of the hills from three sides and the verdant forest all-around.

Every day the ghats of River Ganges at Rishiskesh abound with sadhus as well as pilgrims. The 'Aarti' on the banks of the river is not to be missed event while visiting Rishikesh. Every day in the evening, the floating diyas (earthen lamps) provide a superb view to the river ghats. Besides these, the hymns and distance sound of bell chimes create a symphony of sorts during the Aarti.

Rishikesh is a mainly a pilgrimage centre, but it offers plenty of opportunities for shopping as well. You can buy handicraft items made of shells, pearls and beads, sarees, kurtas, sheets, rugs and several other items. These items are available on Government Approved Handloom Shop, Khadi Bhandar and Garhwal Wool and Craft Shop.

Jolly Grant Airport at Dehradun (42 kms) is the nearest airport from Rishikesh, while Haridwar Railway Station (25 kms) is the nearest railhead. Buses are the best mode of transport to reach Rishikesh. Government and several private buses are available for Rishikesh from Haridwar (25 kms), Dehradun (42 kms), Mussoorie (77 kms), Uttarakashi (154 kms), Kedarnath (228 kms) and Delhi (238 kms).

Accommodation is not at all a big issue at Rishikesh, as the town is dotted with several good hotels, guest houses and dharamshalas. The Garhwal Vikas Manda Nigam's Guest House is the best place to stay in the town.

Major Attractions in Rishikesh
Triveni Ghat: Triveni Ghat is actually a bathing ghat and one of the most popular attractions in Rishikesh. Locals and the pilgrims take a holy dip at this ghat before visiting the temples around Rishikesh town. Thousands of people take bath here and see the Maha Aarti performed on the Ghat, every day in the early morning and evening.

Lakshman Jhula: Built in 1939, this suspended iron bridge (450 ft) is a major attraction for tourists visiting Rishikesh. Legend has it that Ganges has descended to the earth at this place. It is believed that Lakshman, the younger brother of Lord Rama crossed the river Ganges using a hanging bridge made of jute. Radha-Krishna Temple, Lakshman Temple, and an 11.3 metre high monolithic Shiva statue are some of the attractions around the bridge.

Gita Bhawan: Situated adjacent to Lakshman Jhula, Gita Bhawan is a newly constructed building. Gita Bhawan has a fine collection mythological paintings and magnificent statues.

Ram Jhula: Ram Jhula is situated between Shivananda Ashram and Sawargashram। According to legend, Ram Jhula was constructed by Rama to cross the Ganga at Shivananda for returning to Rishikesh.

Just 2 km south of Lakshman Jhula, Swargashram is an abode of hermits and saints. There are large number of Hindu temples at Swargashram. Apart from temples, Swargashram has several good eating joints and shops.

Nilkanth Mahadev: Nilkanth Mahadev, one of the important temples of Rishikesh is located above Swaragashram, atop a 1,675 m high hill. For reaching the temple, you have to take a trek of around 12 kms through the tranquil forests. From the temple you can enjoy commanding panoramic view of the surroundings.

Adventure Sports: You can enjoy a range of adventure sports in Rishikesh. Rock Climbing, White Water Rafting and Trekking are some of the adventure sports. Shivpuri is an ideal point from where you can raft down on the Ganges River.

Narendra Nagar (15 kms): Narendra Nagar is a historical town situated on Rishikesh-Chamba Road. In addition to historical significance, this town also has archaeological importance. Royal Palace and massive Nandi Bull are two of the prime attractions here.

Kunjapuri: Close to Narendra Nagar, Kunjapuri is set at an altitude of 7,000 ft and covered with dense forests. You will get a wonderful view of the lofty peaks and verdant valleys.

Valley of Flowers: 16 kms away from Govindghat, off the Rishikesh-Badrinath Road, the Valley of Flowers is world renowned for housing a number of exotic floral and faunal species. Valley of Flowers has the largest concentration of several species of unique wild flowers.

Chila (20 kms): Chila is a wildlife sanctuary covered with lush dense forest and offers a soothing tranquil environment. Visit the popular reservoir, where you can spot a variety of animals, drinking water.

Haridwar (25 kms): Set on the foothills of Shivalik range, Haridwar is the gateway to Chardham (four pilgrimages - Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath) in the Uttarakhand. Haridwar is popular as being the place that has been blessed by the trinity of Lord Shiva and is also one of the major Shaktipeeths of the country. Major attractions of Haridwar are Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi Temple, Chanda Devi Temple, Sapt Rishi and Daksh Mahadev Temple.

Dehradun (42 kms): Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Dehradun is a worth visiting place. Dehradun houses several tourist attractions, namely Tapkeshwar Temple, Sahastradhara, Dakpathar, Laxman Sidh, Asan Barrage etc.

Mussoorie (77 kms): Mussoorie is a fascinating hill resort, providing a spectacular view of the snow covered Himalayan ranges to the north-east and the picturesque Doon Valley. Major attractions of Mussoorie are Camel's Back Road, Gun Hill, Mussoorie Lake, Kempty Fall, Nag Tibba, Dhanolti, Bhadraj Temple, Yamuna Bridge and Municipal Garden.

Devprayag: A tranquil holy town, Devprayag is the spot where the rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi, leave the mountains and merge. Devprayag has the ancient Ragunathji Temple, which deserves a visit.

Auli: Auli is a small town, offering excellent opportunities for adventure sports like Skiing, Snow-Boarding etc.

Yoga and Meditation in Rishikesh
Rishikesh has a number of ashrams and yoga centres where you can take lessons on these two ancient Indian disciplines. You may contact Swami Shivananda's Divine Society Ashram, which is an authentic place. It is situated on the Tourist Bungalow side of the river. You may stay here for short term study or for longer three month courses. Other popular yoga and meditation centres in Rishikesh are Ved Niketan, Yoga Study Centre, Maharshi Mahesh Yogi's Transcendental Meditation Centre and Yoga Niketan - Rishikesh.

Swargashram: