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.

Road Transport in India

India’s most preferred mode of transport, Road transport system enables one to cover almost every nook and corner of the country. In fact, travelling in various parts of India becomes very convenient, if you know the transportation facilities offered by state road transport corporations including undertakings or institutions authorized by the Ministry of transportation government of India or by the authorities of state governments. All the government authorized transport organizations have their own operational style and they try their best to provide hassle free services to public.

Almost all the Indian states have their own state road transport corporation, providing transport facility within the state and the neighboring states. Apart from the public transport corporations run by state governments, private operators also play a major role in fulfilling the needs of the public. Besides intra state and inter city services, some of the state transport corporations offer city bus services. The city bus services usually provide affordable and on-time service to the public.

The buses run by private operators usually remain in good condition and attract more-and-more commuters due to on-time service and good condition of buses. Major types of buses found across India are Deluxe bus, Luxury bus, Volvo bus, Coach bus, 2x2 bus, 2x3 bus, video coach and simple city bus with seating and standing space. Choose the buses according to your needs and budget, and reach your desired destination by road transport in a short time.

Find the list of some of the major state transport corporations and transport departments of India.

Andhra Pradesh - Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation - APSRTC - http://www.apsrtc.co.in

Assam - Assam State Transport Corporation - ASTC - http://www.assamtransport.com

Bihar – Bihar State Transport Corporation - http://bstdc.bih.nic.in/Transport.htm

Delhi - Delhi Transport Corporation - DTC - http://www.dtc.nic.in

Goa - Kadamba Transport Corporation - KTC - http://goagovt.nic.in/charter/files/KTC/charter.pdf

Gujarat - Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation - GSRTC - http://www.gujaratsrtc.com

Himachal Pradesh - Himachal Pradesh Road Transport Corporation - HRTC – http://www.himachal.nic.in/hrtc

Jammu & Kashmir - Jammu & Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation - JKSRTC - http://www.jksrtc.nic.in

Karnataka - Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation - KSRTC - http://www.ksrtc.in

Kerala - Kerala State Road Transport Corporation - KSRTC - http://www.keralartc.com

Maharashtra - Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) - http://msrtc.maharashtra.gov.in

Rajasthan - Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation - RSRTC - http://www.rsrtc.gov.in

Tamilnadu - State Express Transport Corporation - SETC - http://www.tnstc.in

Uttar Pradesh - Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation - UPSRTC - http://www.upsrtc.com

Uttarkhand - Transport Department - http://www.uttara.in/transport/transport_intro.html

Punjab - Punjab State Road Transport Corporation - PEPSU - http://punjabgovt.nic.in/GOVERNMENT/PepsuRoad.htm

International Airlines in India

In the past decade India’s aviation industry has witnessed a rapid growth that has encouraged global airlines to start their service. Currently, dozens of airlines including world’s leading carrier offer flight services to and from major cities of India. Besides major Indian cities, namely Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata, international airlines operate flights from other cities like Bangalore, Cochin and Mangalore. Each year these international airlines serve to leisure as well as business travellers visiting India from different parts of the world. Along with a comfortable travel, the international airlines in India provide access to first class in-flight amenities and services. Some of the popular international airlines operational to and from India are as follows:

Aeroflot – Officially called ‘Aeroflot – Russian Airlines’, Aeroflot is the national flag carrier of Russia. Established on February 9, 1923, Aeroflot commenced its operation on July 15, 1923. Aeroflot offers its services to 97 cities in 48 countries across the world from its main hub at Sheremetyevo International Airport in Moscow. Currently Aeroflot has a fleet of 91 aircraft from Airbus, Boeing and Ilyushin families.

British Airways – British Airways is the national airline of the United Kingdom (UK) and ranked as the largest airline of the UK on fleet size and other components. With its primary hub at London Heathrow Airport, British Airways offers its flights for over 370 destinations worldwide. British Airways was founded on March 31, 1974 after the merger of BOAC and BEA. The vast fleet of British Airways has 239 aircraft belonging to two families, namely Airbus and Boeing.

Air France – Air France or Air France, S.A is the flag carrier of France having its headquarters in Tremblay-en-France, France. One of the biggest and oldest airlines of the world, Air France serves to 32 domestic destinations and more than 100 destinations worldwide. Air France has its principal hub at Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport and currently operates a fleet of 248 aircraft from Airbus and Boeing families.

Cathay Pacific Airways – Cathay Pacific Airways is a Hong Kong based airlines founded by American Roy C Farrell and Australian Sydney H De Kantzow in 1946. The airline has its main hub at Hong Kong International Airport and offers scheduled passenger and cargo services to 114 destinations in 36 countries across the world. Cathay Pacific Airways has a fleet of 126 wide-body aircraft from Airbus and Boeing families.

Etihad Airways - The national carrier of Abu Dhabi (UAE), Etihad Airways or simply called as Etihar is a major airline of Asia. Etihad was founded in the year 2003 and currently operates around 147 daily flights to 64 destinations in 42 countries worldwide. The main hub of Etihad is Abu Dhabi International Airport and its head office is in Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi. Etihad has a fleet of 55 aircraft including 5 cargo flights. In India Etihad Airways operates flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Trivandrum, Bangalore and Chennai.

Lufthansa - Founded in January, 1926, Lufthansa is one of the important airlines of the world. It is a German Airline having its headquarters in Cologne. Lufthansa is the founding member of Star Alliance and currently offers its services to around 410 destinations worldwide. The fleet of Lufthansa has 274 aircraft that include Airbus, Boeing and Bombardier aircrafts. Lufthansa flies to Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore and Hyderabad.

Singapore Airlines – Singapore Airlines Limited (SIA) or Singapore Airlines is the flag carrier of Singapore. The primary hub of the airline is Singapore Changi Airport and it has a strong presence in the South Asia, East Asia, Southeast Asia and many other destinations worldwide. Singapore Airlines has a fleet of 106 aircraft and it offers services for 61 destinations including Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Bangalore. Originated in 1947, it was earlier known as Malayan Airways. It is one of the six airlines of the world to receive a 5-star rating by Skytrax.

Virgin Atlantic Airways – A private airlines run by Richard Branson's Virgin Group, Virgin Atlantic Airways has its main base at London Heathrow Airport. It was the first airline to offer individual TVs to their business class passengers. Virgin Atlantic has one of the youngest fleets in the world and currently boasts of 37 aircraft. Virgin Atlantic flies to Indian cities, namely Delhi and Mumbai.

Thai Airways International - Thai Airways International, the national airline of Thailand came into being in 1960 as a result of the joint venture between Thailand's domestic airline Thai Airways Company and Scandinavian Airlines System. It operates domestic, regional and international flights to many destinations of the world. Thai Airways International has its main hub at Bangkok International Airport. The airline has a fleet of around 99 aircrafts and offers its services for 71 destinations including Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Bangalore.

Sri Lankan Airlines – SriLankan Airlines Limited, earlier known as Air Lanka is the flag carrier of Sri Lanka. With its main base at Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, Sri Lankan Airlines offers its flight services to 49 destinations in Asia and Europe. Currently the fleet of SriLankan Airlines has 13 aircraft from Airbus family. The airline flies to many cities in India such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kochi, Hyderabad and Goa.

Air Canada – Air Canada is the flag carrier and the biggest airline of Canada. Founded in 1936, Air Canada offers scheduled and chartered services to 178 destinations around the world. Air Canada has a vast fleet of 202 aircraft including aircrafts from Airbus, Boeing and Embraer families. Air Canada is a founding member of Star Alliance and provides its service to Indian capital city New Delhi.

Other popular international airlines to India are: American Airlines, Finnair, Kuwait Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Druk Air, US Airways and United Airlines.

Domestic Airlines in India

The airline industry is existing in India since a long time, and flights are available in domestic and international sectors. However, in this decade the domestic market of airline has seen a rapid growth in India. Thanks to Captain Gopinath, the man behind the attractive concept of Low Cost Carrier (LCC) Air Deccan that changed the whole domestic market in India. In fact, the air travel that was mainly restricted to elite group people slowly become the favourite mode of transport for middle-class people. With the passage of time many other airlines introduced the cheap flights in the domestic routes of India including second-tier cities. From government owned Air India and privately owned Jet Airways in the 2000s, many airlines came into existence in India that include Kingfisher Airlines, Kingfisher Red, IndiGo Airlines, GoAir, SpiceJet, Paramount Airways, MDLR Airlines, Jagson Airlines and JetLite. Whether you are a dometic traveler or a foreigner, you can rely on India’s domestic airlines and enjoy a hasslefree air travel with access to in-flight amenities and on ground service.

Air India

India’s flagship carrier Air India was started by JRD Tata in the year 1932. Air India was previously known as Tata Airlines. It was only in August 1946 that Tata Airlines was converted into a Public company under the name of Air India. From 1948 that Air India started its international operations. In early 1950's due to the declining financial conditions of various airlines, the government decided to nationalize air transport. This gave birth to two autonomous wings - Indian Airlines and Air India International. The Indian Airlines was formed by the merger of eight domestic airlines whereas Air India International was established to operate the overseas services. However later the word' International' was dropped. Since then the company has been called as Air India Limited. Air India's network today covers 29 destinations (excluding subsidiaries) all over the world with a fleet consists of 31 aircrafts.

Indian Airlines

Indian Airlines now known as Indian is one of the premier airlines of India. It is fully owned by the government and was established in 1953. It provides its services in India as well as in other neighboring countries. It was only after the nationalization of eight private airlines that Indian Airlines came into being. At the time of nationalization Indian Airlines inherited a fleet of 72 aircrafts (excluding subsidiaries). Since then the fleet has been in a mode of continuous up gradation. Indian Airlines covers around 63 destinations.

Air India Express

Air India Express is a low-cost carrier subsidiary of Air India that operates mainly to the cities of Middle East and Southeast Asia. A fully owned subsidiary of National Aviation Company of India Ltd., Air India Express operates around 100 flights per week, mainly from its bases in Kerala and other south Indian states. Established in May 2004, Air India Express commenced its operation on April 29, 2005. Currently with a fleet of 21 aircrafts, Air India Express offers its service for 31 destinations.

Air India Regional

Initially started as Alliance Air, Air India Regional is a lost-cost subsidiary of Indian. Founded in 1996, Air India Regional has its main hub at IGI Airport in New Delhi. Currently Air India Regional has a fleet of 11 aircraft that include ATR 42-320 (7) and Bombardier CRJ-700 ER (4). Air India Regional offers its flight services for 27 domestic destinations.

Jet Airways

Jet Airways is one of the premiere private airlines of India. It operates over 400 flights daily to around 67 destinations in 19 countries across the world. It operates daily international flights to many destinations in Asia, Europe, Africa and North America. Established on April 1, 1992, Jet Airways commenced its operation on May 5, 1993. Jet Airways has its main hub at Chhtrapati Shivaji International Airport, while Brussels Airport, Chennai International Airport and IGI Airport Delhi are its secondary hubs. Owned by London-based billionaire Naresh Goyal, Jet Airways has 90 aircraft in its fleet.

Jet Konnect

Jet Konnect is a lost cost brand of Jet Airways, which was launched on May 8, 2009. The airline shares the same airline code and callsign like Jet Airways, only the in-flight amenities have been curtailed. Now passengers travelling in Jet Konnect flight need to buy meal on-board while travelling to any destination. Jet Konnect operates a mix fleet of ATR 72-500 and Boeing 737-800s flights.

JetLite

Another subsidiary of Jet Airways, JetLite was actually established as Sahara Airlines on September 20, 1991 and began operations on December 3, 1993 with two Boeing 737-200 aircraft. Due to financial Sahara Airlines that was rebranded as Air Sahara on October 2, 2000, was taken over by Jet Airways chief Naresh Goyal on April 12, 2007. Air Sahara was renamed as JetLite on April 16, 2007 and now mainly targets second tier cities of India. Currently JetLite has a mixed fleet of Boeing 737 Next Generation and Bombardier CRJ-200 ER aircraft.

Kingfisher Airlines

Kingfisher Airlines, a leading private airline of India is based in Bangalore. It is owned and managed by the liquor baron Vijay Mallya. The operations of Kingfisher Airlines started in May 2005. The chief Indian destinations covered by the airlines are: Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Goa, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Cochin, Pune and many other Indian destinations. In a short span of time, Kingfisher Airlines has come a long way. Several unique facilities are offered to the customers flying by Kingfisher Airlines. It was the first airline of India to operate with all new aircrafts. Kingfisher Airlines operates over 375 daily flights to 71 destinations with regional and long haul international services. Currently Kingfishr Airlines has a fleet of 66 aircrafts and the airline has placed order for 130 more aircraft including 5 Airbus A380-800.

Kingfisher Red

Formerly known as Simplifly Deccan or Air Deccan, Kingfisher Red is a low-cost subsidiary of Kingfisher Airlines mainly focusing to second-tier cities of India. Headquartered in Mumbai, Kingfisher Red is the only low cost carrier that offers complimentary in-flight meals to air travallers. Kingfisher Red has a fleet of 21 aircraft and offers its service for more than 60 destinations in India.

GoAir

GoAir is a low cost budget airline that is based in Mumbai. The leading Indian brands of Bombay Dyeing and Britannia are the promoters of the airline. GoAir is the brainchild of Jeh Wadia, who is also the Managing Director of the airline. The services offered by GoAir totally quality based, punctual and affordable. The airlines theme line is 'Experience-the Difference'. Currently the airline covers 13 destinations. Some of them are: Hyderabad, Delhi, Goa, Jaipur, Jammu, Pune, Mumbai and Srinagar.

Spice Jet

Spice Jet like is a low cost airline based in New Delhi. The main motto of Spice Jet is to become no.1 low cost airline of India by offering lowest airfares to the middle class customers. It's objective in a nutshell is to provide the benefits of travelling by air to everyone. The Spice Jet Airlines began its operation in 2005. Earlier it was known as Royal Airways. The fleet of aircrafts that it owns promises excellent technology and trend. It currently flies to 11 destinations - Chennai, Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad, Jammu, Kolkata, Mumbai, Srinagar.

IndiGo

IndiGo Airlines is one of the new entrants in the aviation industry. Its inaugural flight took off from Delhi to Imphal in August 2006. The airline targets those class of people who are cost conscious and look for affordable, punctual and hassle free services. It has a fleet of certain aircrafts that are technological advanced. The IndiGo Airline has plans to serve around 30 Indian cities with a fleet of 40 Airbus A - 320 s by 2010. The cities on which they are concentrating are: Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Kolkata, Guwahati, Bangalore and Nagpur.

Travel Requisite for India

Travelling is one of the best possible ways to people’s mind, body and soul residing in any part of the globe. Besides these, travelling allows one to know the culture, values and rules of an unexplored land. After vacationing in any new country or a destination you feel yourself refreshed and also carry some lifelong memories along with you. However, before visiting any strange land, one must have prior knowledge about the geography, rules and regulations etc. related to the particular country or place to avoid any unpleasant circumstance during the trip.

Fact is that, a tourist or common traveler need to know a number of things before flying to a new country or a distant place. India Travel Directory always take care of the international tourists visiting India from different parts of the world. Keeping in mind your hassle less journey we have compiled some important travel related requisites below that would be surely handy for you. Hence, before landing to the charming land of India, must keep yourself updated about the facts and essentials mentioned below:

• Travel Tips: Before visiting any new destination, it is very essential to know the do's and don't s or the general tips for travelling. One should enquire about some essentials such as the visa procedures, destinations to visit, the best time to visit and things one needs to carry. With the aim to make your trip a pleasant experience, we are providing some important tips related to your trip to India.
• Travel Advisory: Likewise Travel Tips one should also have a glance at the travel advisory. In fact, having a glance at the travel advisory would help you to make your journey to the India a memorable experience. Our Travel Advisory provides you information about - Safety & Security, Health Conditions, Political Conditions prevailing, Customs of the land, Sensitive areas and so on.
• Tourism Offices in India: Ministry of Tourism, Government of India has established a number of tourism offices all over the country. Tourism offices in India provide essential assistance to global tourists during their trip to India.
• Tourism Offices of India Abroad: With the aim to provide India related information to tourists across the world, Government of India has established its tourism offices in some major countries. Global tourists can get the answers of their India travel related queries in these offices. 
• Tourism Boards in India: A vast country India is visited by millions of tourists every year from across the globe. With the aim to provide hassle free journey to tourists, all the states and union territories of India have set up Tourism Development Board. Get more information about Tourism Boards in India with ITOPC. 
• Guidelines to Obtain Indian Visa: Obtaining the tourist visa before visiting to India is prerequisite. However, due to lack of knowledge global tourists often face a number of problems. For global tourists we provide all types of travel assistance and also guide to obtain the Indian Visa. 
• Medical Visa:  Indian Government offer Medical Visa to foreign national who desires to go for treatment under the Indian system of Medicines. Get the important information regarding the Medical Visa and plan your Medical tour accordingly. 
• India Baggage Rules: Keeping in mind the hassle free tour of foreign tourists and commercial and economic interest of the nation, the Government of India has carved out certain baggage rules. Before visiting India one should know about the baggage rules of the country. For avoiding any type of unusual circumstances go through the India Baggage rules carefully and made your vacation pleasant.
• Domestic Airlines in India: For past few years the airlines industry of India has seen tremendous growth. Presently a number of airlines offer domestic flights across India. Boom in airlines industry has resulted in the several cheap airline carriers. Now one can travel to all the big cities of India by airline at cheap fare. Know more about the domestic airlines in India in detail. 
• International Airlines in India: One of the most popular destinations of world, India is visited by large number of tourists from all over the world. Global trotters mostly use the airways to reach India, as it is the fastest and most convenient mode of transport. We provide you brief information about famous international airlines operating for India.
• Travel Insurance for India: Before visiting any new place one must assure all travel requirements and other concerned worries. Keeping in mind travel worries of thousands of tourists visiting India, government has made Travel Insurance policy. From business trip to family vacation, Travel insurance plan takes care of all your travel needs and worries. 
• Road Transportation in India: Road Transportation in India is the main medium of transport in the country. In fact, almost every nook and corner of India is attached with roads that provides easy accessibility. With the aim to provide hassle free transport to people and essential assistance, government of India and State governments alike have set up road transport corporations. 
• Train Travel in India: Train travel is the considered the most convenient mode of transport in India. Indian Railways is the third largest railway network of world and it provides train connectivity to all the important places of the country. Travel across India by train and experience one of the best journeys in your life.
• Bus Travel in India: Buses are the only mode of transport which can take you far flung areas, where you reach by train or air. Most of the places in India is well connected by good motorable roads, served by a number of buses. Buses in India are available in various options like ordinary (local), luxury, deluxe, coaches, volvo etc. In India both government as well as private operators offer bus services to different places. 
• Renowned Hotel Chains in India: The boom in travel and tourism industry in recent time has also encouraged the major hotel groups of the country. Equipped with modern amenities, these hotels offer world class services to guests. Get more information about hotel chains in India. 
• Handy Travel Books: Travel Books are one of the best medium to know about any place and its facts. You will find well compiled texts as well as photographs of various places in travel books. After going through the travel books you get an overview of particular place that makes your trip easier.
• Popular Newspapers of India: Newspapers are considered the convenient and authentic means of knowing about the happenings around the world. In India newspapers are published in various languages daily that keep people updated with news related to politics, events, crime, business, sports, entertainment, culture, opinions and much more.
• Latest Tourism Statistics: It becomes necessary sometimes to check the tourism statistics before planning a trip to a place. Tourism statistics helps the travellers to plan their accordingly. We at ITOPC provides you information about the inbound, outbound and domestic tourism statistics.
• National Parks/ Wildlife Sanctuaries Entrance Charges: All over India there are dozens of wildlife parks and you have to pay entrance charges to explore those wildlife areas. Know about the entrance charges of important wildlife sanctuaries and national parks of India. 
• Monuments Entrance Charges: For proper maintenance of the ancient monuments the tourism department has fixed entry charges. You have to pay entry charges of few dollars to visit the historic structures known for their rich past, cultural or architectural importance. 
• Amusement Parks Entrance Charges: Amusement Parks have been developed in major cities of India to provide complete entertainment. Charges of amusement parks ranges from Rs 100 to 500 and you would certainly enjoy every minute inside the parks.

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