Holidays with family, kids, friends or with your partner all have distinctive pleasure. People often just go to any place to spend the holidays but think if you have a better idea then your holiday will be more colorful. Below are some greatest holiday ideas-
Elephant Safari & Tiger Tour in Corbett National Park:
The Corbett National Park is famous for its exceptional natural beauty and rich population of tigers. The Corbett Elephant Safari package is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers. On your India tour, visit the Corbett National Park and enjoy an exciting elephant safari for an extraordinary experience. Exploring the breathtaking natural beauty of Corbett and its amazing varieties of wildlife would surely be a lifetime experience for you.
Beach Tours in India:
There are enormous beautiful beaches in India. Spending holidays at beach is a dream for everyone, the fun and pleasure at beach can not be expressed in words. Beaches in India welcome huge number of visitors every year. There are many Hotels and resorts near to the beaches to provide their guests a best stay.
Bird Watching Tour:
Bird Watching tour in India is very exciting, this tour makes you live near to the nature. Every one loves the sound of birds and watching birds near to them. Excitement increases when you live with this kind of surrounding. Hotels and resort directory in India provides many hotels, resort and packages which make your tour exciting.
Desert Safari in Rajasthan:
Desert camel safari is very enjoyable thing to have on vacation. Rajasthan has the largest desert in India. Rajasthan greets huge number of tourists every year. The state provides a great accommodation to their guests.
Golden Triangle Tour:
The Golden Triangle Tour package in India showcases the history and culture of Delhi, Jaipur and Agra. The Golden triangle tour takes you to Royalty of Rajasthan and Delhi and the Taj-Mahal, the embodiment of love and romance.
India Heritage Tour
Heritage tour in India is intended to introduce tourists to this rich culture of the country. The tour will take you to the magnificent forts, palaces and havelis of the subcontinent, which speak volumes of its vivacious royal past.
Kerala Ayurveda Tour:
Planning your Ayurveda tour to Kerala in order to know more about the science which is more than 5000 years old.Your Kerala Ayurveda tour will not only help you understand Ayurveda better but also Kerala in general. On this tour, you will undergo a short Yoga and Meditation course in the resort itself. The tour will help you to understand the culture of Kerala. Your Ayurveda tour to Kerala will be exciting, fun filled yet informative.
South India Tour:
South India is the beautiful side of India. South India Tours is the best way to visit the tourist destinations of South India. It includes the states of Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. This tour package offers you a comprehensive tour to South India. It takes you to various historical, cultural and religious places of south India.
India is a country with lots of exciting tourist places. You can find more Holiday ideas in India. The country invites tourists from all over the world.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
What will you do if you only had one day in New Delhi?
The air was humid, the crowd moved from every direction and the vehicles fought for their place on the road, inching closer to each other.
Welcome to New Delhi, the gateway to incredible India.
You may have watched enough Bollywood films to get a hint of what to expect in an Indian city but movies tend to gloss over everyday realities. The capital of India was a challenge—from negotiating a taxi fare to bargaining for souvenirs. Despite the presence of metres in taxis called auto rickshaws, drivers always preferred negotiation, which can last forever until you strike a fair deal.
The best way is to walk out if you are not satisfied with the amount the driver has quoted and wait for him to go after you.
So what is it with India that intrigues every visitor? It may be the stories of snake charmers or holy men. But any Indian will tell you that they have one of the best monuments in the world. In New Delhi alone, there are more than a hundred monuments. A day is not enough to cover these considering how big the city is.
But if you have only a day to spare, then these monuments and sites should not be missed:
Qutub Minar
Built in 1192, it laid the foundations of the Delhi Sultanate after Mohammed Ghori defeated the Rajputs, which heralded a new dynasty—Slave Dynasty. It is also considered the oldest monument in Delhi and the highest stone tower in India.
The famous Iron Pillar, which has stood for 2,000 years without rusting, is also located within the complex of Qutub Minar.
The pillar was erected between the 4th and 5th century AD as a flagpole of a Vishnu temple. It is also believed that hugging the pillar will make one’s wishes come true.
The monument’s ethereal carvings, intricate designs and uniqueness make it worth to stay a minimum of one hour.
India Gate
Originally called the All India War Memorial, it was built in 1931 in memory of the 90,000 Indian soldiers who died in World War I. The names of the soldiers are inscribed on the walls of the arc of the gate. It is best to go at night as it is cooler and the gate is brightly lit along with fountains around it.
Rashtrapati Bhavan
The house of the president of India boasts of having welcomed the most powerful people in history. Up to this day, all important Indian state ceremonies are held here.
Built in 1931, this was meant as the nerve centre of the British power in Delhi. Standing on a 4.5-acre land, it has 340 rooms, 37 salons, 74 lobbies, 18 staircases and 37 fountains. The change of guard ceremonies are being held here as well.
Lodi Gardens
The 15th century gardens are famous among locals who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital. The charm of the gardens lies in the carefully manicured lawns and the medieval monuments, including Muhammad Shah’s and Sikander Lodi’s tombs. Muhammad Shah (1434 – 44) was the third ruler of the Sayyid Dynasty.
Another interesting structure in the gardens is the Athpula bridge, meaning eight bridge, as it rests on eight piers, forming seven arches.
Different bird species also make Lodi Gardens their permanent home.
Habitat Centre
It is not exactly a monument but it is still worth a visit as it is just a cool 10-minute walk from the Lodi Gardens.
The Habitat Centre regularly hosts art exhibits and performances important to feed the soul of the artist in us. It promotes cultural exchanges, environmental issues, among others. If you’re tired from eating South Asian food, it has a ‘70s style American diner that offers affordable and enticing menu.
Janpath Market
It’s one of the famous bargain-hunting places in Delhi where you can get a 200-rupee (US$4) table cover or shawl. Like any other markets in the world, bargaining is a must here. Never settle for the first price because the best deal is half the price. Even locals go to Janpath to buy silverware, kurta (Indian clothing, usually long-sleeved), joti (handcrafted Indian shoes) and accessories.
Connaught Place
It is one of the busiest and largest commercial areas of Delhi. Despite housing modern, high-end brands, CP has maintained its British colonial look. Walking around (literally because it is circular), this Victorian architecture building is much better than getting stuck in a modern mall devoid of culture.
Dilli Haat
Haat means informal weekend bazaar but Dili Haat, which showcases rural products, is the upgraded and sophisticated version to make shopping more hassle-free.
For a 15-rupee (31 US cents) entrance fee, you get to appreciate Indian crafts and buy them at reasonable prices. It also has several food stalls that offer a variety of Indian cuisine. A snack of momo (Tibetan dumpling) with hot milk tea at Momo Mia is guaranteed to energise your tired body.
With the help of a Delhi-based friend whose negotiating skills were par excellence, I managed to go to all these places and still had plenty of time to buy Bollywood DVDs, eat Kashmiri dinner and appreciate Delhi in slow motion.
Welcome to New Delhi, the gateway to incredible India.
You may have watched enough Bollywood films to get a hint of what to expect in an Indian city but movies tend to gloss over everyday realities. The capital of India was a challenge—from negotiating a taxi fare to bargaining for souvenirs. Despite the presence of metres in taxis called auto rickshaws, drivers always preferred negotiation, which can last forever until you strike a fair deal.
The best way is to walk out if you are not satisfied with the amount the driver has quoted and wait for him to go after you.
So what is it with India that intrigues every visitor? It may be the stories of snake charmers or holy men. But any Indian will tell you that they have one of the best monuments in the world. In New Delhi alone, there are more than a hundred monuments. A day is not enough to cover these considering how big the city is.
But if you have only a day to spare, then these monuments and sites should not be missed:
Qutub Minar
Built in 1192, it laid the foundations of the Delhi Sultanate after Mohammed Ghori defeated the Rajputs, which heralded a new dynasty—Slave Dynasty. It is also considered the oldest monument in Delhi and the highest stone tower in India.
The famous Iron Pillar, which has stood for 2,000 years without rusting, is also located within the complex of Qutub Minar.
The pillar was erected between the 4th and 5th century AD as a flagpole of a Vishnu temple. It is also believed that hugging the pillar will make one’s wishes come true.
The monument’s ethereal carvings, intricate designs and uniqueness make it worth to stay a minimum of one hour.
India Gate
Originally called the All India War Memorial, it was built in 1931 in memory of the 90,000 Indian soldiers who died in World War I. The names of the soldiers are inscribed on the walls of the arc of the gate. It is best to go at night as it is cooler and the gate is brightly lit along with fountains around it.
Rashtrapati Bhavan
The house of the president of India boasts of having welcomed the most powerful people in history. Up to this day, all important Indian state ceremonies are held here.
Built in 1931, this was meant as the nerve centre of the British power in Delhi. Standing on a 4.5-acre land, it has 340 rooms, 37 salons, 74 lobbies, 18 staircases and 37 fountains. The change of guard ceremonies are being held here as well.
Lodi Gardens
The 15th century gardens are famous among locals who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital. The charm of the gardens lies in the carefully manicured lawns and the medieval monuments, including Muhammad Shah’s and Sikander Lodi’s tombs. Muhammad Shah (1434 – 44) was the third ruler of the Sayyid Dynasty.
Another interesting structure in the gardens is the Athpula bridge, meaning eight bridge, as it rests on eight piers, forming seven arches.
Different bird species also make Lodi Gardens their permanent home.
Habitat Centre
It is not exactly a monument but it is still worth a visit as it is just a cool 10-minute walk from the Lodi Gardens.
The Habitat Centre regularly hosts art exhibits and performances important to feed the soul of the artist in us. It promotes cultural exchanges, environmental issues, among others. If you’re tired from eating South Asian food, it has a ‘70s style American diner that offers affordable and enticing menu.
Janpath Market
It’s one of the famous bargain-hunting places in Delhi where you can get a 200-rupee (US$4) table cover or shawl. Like any other markets in the world, bargaining is a must here. Never settle for the first price because the best deal is half the price. Even locals go to Janpath to buy silverware, kurta (Indian clothing, usually long-sleeved), joti (handcrafted Indian shoes) and accessories.
Connaught Place
It is one of the busiest and largest commercial areas of Delhi. Despite housing modern, high-end brands, CP has maintained its British colonial look. Walking around (literally because it is circular), this Victorian architecture building is much better than getting stuck in a modern mall devoid of culture.
Dilli Haat
Haat means informal weekend bazaar but Dili Haat, which showcases rural products, is the upgraded and sophisticated version to make shopping more hassle-free.
For a 15-rupee (31 US cents) entrance fee, you get to appreciate Indian crafts and buy them at reasonable prices. It also has several food stalls that offer a variety of Indian cuisine. A snack of momo (Tibetan dumpling) with hot milk tea at Momo Mia is guaranteed to energise your tired body.
With the help of a Delhi-based friend whose negotiating skills were par excellence, I managed to go to all these places and still had plenty of time to buy Bollywood DVDs, eat Kashmiri dinner and appreciate Delhi in slow motion.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Australians head to Kerala for 'mind, body, soul' experience
Australians, with their fondness for the outdoor and growing interest in yoga, meditation and ayurveda, are going all out to experience the beaches, backwaters, nature and culture of 'god's own country' - Kerala.
With arrival figures from Australia in the last five years increasing by a staggering 160 percent, Australia has become the seventh largest tourism market for the south Indian state.
'The volume of tourists has doubled year after year with Kerala emerging as one of the most popular states. The Aussie tourist is now looking for exploring more than just the golden triangle - Delhi, Agra and Jaipur,' Andre Rasquinha of the Melbourne-based Travel Talk Holidays told IANS.
With Australians' interest in yoga and ayurveda growing, many are looking at a holiday in Kerala for a 'mind, body, soul' experience.
'From 2002 to 2008, there has been a 50 percent increase in tourists from Australia coming to our yoga retreat and ayurvedic resort. Our seven nights' rejuvenation and body purification package is very popular. Travellers are also seeking slimming, stress management and anti-ageing packages,' said Subhash C. Bose, general manager of the Somatheeram Ayurvedic Beach Resort.
'There is also a great demand for culinary tours,' added Mumbai-born Rasquinha, who was a qualified chef with the Sheraton group before migrating to Australia.
Kerala's tourism minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan led a road show in Sydney and Melbourne this week to showcase the delights of Kerala to Australians, who are soaking up the Incredible India experience.
Last year, nearly 130,000 Australians travelled to India and 15,000 of them visited Kerala.
'We are witnessing nearly 25 percent growth from Australia each year, making it one of our fastest growing markets,' said Venu V, secretary, Kerala Tourism and Cultural Affairs.
He also outlined the special linkages set up between hotel businesses and the village community whereby 'every dollar spent goes back into the community'.
'We have only started looking at Australia for the past two years, but the interest has been phenomenal in integrated adventure and eco-tourism packages offering paddling, canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking and bird and butterfly watching across south India,' Vinay Sirsi of Kalypso Adventures, who was part of the road show delegation, told IANS.
'Earlier, Australians only went to India if they were adventurous or wanted a spiritual experience, but now Australians are going for an overall experience that today's India offers - everything from the modern to the traditional, intrinsic India,' said Marnie Barter, who lives in Daylesford, an hour's drive from Melbourne in a region known for spas and massages.
Barter was inspired to launch Tagore Tours after her very first trip to India with her 12-year-old daughter. She only takes groups of 10, twice a year for 18 to 28 days in March and September and includes all modes of conveyance, especially the train.
She said: 'You haven't seen India unless you take a train journey.'
However, the economic downturn is probably pinching the travel industry the most.
'When there is not enough to pay the utility bills, one can't take holidays. We have had cancellations since the financial crisis hit the world markets a month ago,' Rasquinha said.
Denise Dodd of the Orient Express Travel Group and Holidays, the lucky winner of a return flight on Singapore Airlines and a five-day Kerala experience at the road show, doesn't have to worry about the economic downturn. She has just had her 'dream come true'.
'I have never been to India, but have always wanted to go to Kerala and Goa,' said Dodd.
With arrival figures from Australia in the last five years increasing by a staggering 160 percent, Australia has become the seventh largest tourism market for the south Indian state.
'The volume of tourists has doubled year after year with Kerala emerging as one of the most popular states. The Aussie tourist is now looking for exploring more than just the golden triangle - Delhi, Agra and Jaipur,' Andre Rasquinha of the Melbourne-based Travel Talk Holidays told IANS.
With Australians' interest in yoga and ayurveda growing, many are looking at a holiday in Kerala for a 'mind, body, soul' experience.
'From 2002 to 2008, there has been a 50 percent increase in tourists from Australia coming to our yoga retreat and ayurvedic resort. Our seven nights' rejuvenation and body purification package is very popular. Travellers are also seeking slimming, stress management and anti-ageing packages,' said Subhash C. Bose, general manager of the Somatheeram Ayurvedic Beach Resort.
'There is also a great demand for culinary tours,' added Mumbai-born Rasquinha, who was a qualified chef with the Sheraton group before migrating to Australia.
Kerala's tourism minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan led a road show in Sydney and Melbourne this week to showcase the delights of Kerala to Australians, who are soaking up the Incredible India experience.
Last year, nearly 130,000 Australians travelled to India and 15,000 of them visited Kerala.
'We are witnessing nearly 25 percent growth from Australia each year, making it one of our fastest growing markets,' said Venu V, secretary, Kerala Tourism and Cultural Affairs.
He also outlined the special linkages set up between hotel businesses and the village community whereby 'every dollar spent goes back into the community'.
'We have only started looking at Australia for the past two years, but the interest has been phenomenal in integrated adventure and eco-tourism packages offering paddling, canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking and bird and butterfly watching across south India,' Vinay Sirsi of Kalypso Adventures, who was part of the road show delegation, told IANS.
'Earlier, Australians only went to India if they were adventurous or wanted a spiritual experience, but now Australians are going for an overall experience that today's India offers - everything from the modern to the traditional, intrinsic India,' said Marnie Barter, who lives in Daylesford, an hour's drive from Melbourne in a region known for spas and massages.
Barter was inspired to launch Tagore Tours after her very first trip to India with her 12-year-old daughter. She only takes groups of 10, twice a year for 18 to 28 days in March and September and includes all modes of conveyance, especially the train.
She said: 'You haven't seen India unless you take a train journey.'
However, the economic downturn is probably pinching the travel industry the most.
'When there is not enough to pay the utility bills, one can't take holidays. We have had cancellations since the financial crisis hit the world markets a month ago,' Rasquinha said.
Denise Dodd of the Orient Express Travel Group and Holidays, the lucky winner of a return flight on Singapore Airlines and a five-day Kerala experience at the road show, doesn't have to worry about the economic downturn. She has just had her 'dream come true'.
'I have never been to India, but have always wanted to go to Kerala and Goa,' said Dodd.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Natures bounty
Take a trip down unexplored Kerala, from getting an ayurvedic massage at Varkala to a boat safari at Periyar.
NATURE really is the best artist in Kerala. On a recent luxury holiday with a friend, this states beautiful panorama captivated me.
First came Varkala, along the southern coast. Here we received blissful massages at a beach resort, while taking in the dramatic views of laterite cliffs and blue- seas fringed with palms. From there we moved onto the verdant Thekkady, encountering unseasonal rains, more shades of green than I have ever seen, and mist rolling into our room. The downside was that the animals hid out in the jungle during our boat safari at the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, so we only spotted the occasional elephant, sambhar, buffalo, and wild boar. But the lush surrounds, the birds galore and the chilly hill- station feel more than made up for our lack of tiger sightings.
Kumarakom was next, and words dont do justice to the experience. We stayed one night on a houseboat or a kettuvallom; a wooden construction with a thatched roof and an upper deck that is perfect for a meal under the stars (and/ or sunbathing!). The boat made its way gently around the still, mirror- like blue waters of the Vembanad Lake.
Along the shoreline we saw whitewashed churches and quaint villages. When the rains set in, turning the day wet and grey, the gloom just seemed to enhance our spectacular surroundings. Then came night, with its sounds of night- birds and a chorus of crickets. To the east we saw an almost full moon high in the star- studded heavens; far in the distance, brilliant bolts of lightning, and then, slowly, the flickering lanterns of the fishing boats coming on.
A magical display of nature – of sun, moon, stars, heaven, earth, water and fire playing all the lead roles. We did not take the weather with us to Cochin, our last destination ( although the sky did have an ominous hue to it), or we might have missed another Kerala postcard view – the Chinese fishing nets set alight by the flaming sky at sunset. Our sunset cruise along the backwaters ensured us of a perfect photo- op, as did our strategically located hotel on Willington Harbour.
In Cochin, I actually did the touristy bit ( while my friend opted to lounge by the pool). A visit to the historical sites in Mattencherry and Fort Kochi ensued, followed by a visit to the Jewish Quarters and the synagogue. Not far from there lay yet another treat for me – the much famed Jewish flea market. I love rummaging through antique stores and flea markets and when I chance upon a find, especially in a decrepit, out- of- theway antique store, Im thrilled.
The figurines of Indian gods, miniature gilded paintings of Jesus and the apostles, well- worn wooden household objects, hand- painted tiles, glass lanterns, 4- poster beds even… there was enough to keep me pottering around for hours despite the mid- day heat. Thankfully I was scheduled for yet another massage and an Ayurvedic facial ( I take my pampering very seriously) – else who knows what I would’ve lugged back home?
NATURE really is the best artist in Kerala. On a recent luxury holiday with a friend, this states beautiful panorama captivated me.
First came Varkala, along the southern coast. Here we received blissful massages at a beach resort, while taking in the dramatic views of laterite cliffs and blue- seas fringed with palms. From there we moved onto the verdant Thekkady, encountering unseasonal rains, more shades of green than I have ever seen, and mist rolling into our room. The downside was that the animals hid out in the jungle during our boat safari at the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, so we only spotted the occasional elephant, sambhar, buffalo, and wild boar. But the lush surrounds, the birds galore and the chilly hill- station feel more than made up for our lack of tiger sightings.
Kumarakom was next, and words dont do justice to the experience. We stayed one night on a houseboat or a kettuvallom; a wooden construction with a thatched roof and an upper deck that is perfect for a meal under the stars (and/ or sunbathing!). The boat made its way gently around the still, mirror- like blue waters of the Vembanad Lake.
Along the shoreline we saw whitewashed churches and quaint villages. When the rains set in, turning the day wet and grey, the gloom just seemed to enhance our spectacular surroundings. Then came night, with its sounds of night- birds and a chorus of crickets. To the east we saw an almost full moon high in the star- studded heavens; far in the distance, brilliant bolts of lightning, and then, slowly, the flickering lanterns of the fishing boats coming on.
A magical display of nature – of sun, moon, stars, heaven, earth, water and fire playing all the lead roles. We did not take the weather with us to Cochin, our last destination ( although the sky did have an ominous hue to it), or we might have missed another Kerala postcard view – the Chinese fishing nets set alight by the flaming sky at sunset. Our sunset cruise along the backwaters ensured us of a perfect photo- op, as did our strategically located hotel on Willington Harbour.
In Cochin, I actually did the touristy bit ( while my friend opted to lounge by the pool). A visit to the historical sites in Mattencherry and Fort Kochi ensued, followed by a visit to the Jewish Quarters and the synagogue. Not far from there lay yet another treat for me – the much famed Jewish flea market. I love rummaging through antique stores and flea markets and when I chance upon a find, especially in a decrepit, out- of- theway antique store, Im thrilled.
The figurines of Indian gods, miniature gilded paintings of Jesus and the apostles, well- worn wooden household objects, hand- painted tiles, glass lanterns, 4- poster beds even… there was enough to keep me pottering around for hours despite the mid- day heat. Thankfully I was scheduled for yet another massage and an Ayurvedic facial ( I take my pampering very seriously) – else who knows what I would’ve lugged back home?
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Top seven places to visit in India
India is a mix of cultures, traditions, languages and this is what gives a unique picture to the country. Rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan, the enchanting backwaters of Kerala and the beauty of the Himalayas make India a worthy tourist destination..
INDIA IS a vast country and there are several places of tourist interests that can be explored for a delightful and enchanting experience. Travel and tourism in the country provides a delightful experience with a superb blend of culture, tradition, spirituality, natural beauty and modernisation.
In fact, the county is the land of amazing diversity and its diversity can be observed in all its realms. There are several enchanting travel destination in the country like Goa, Kerala, Rajasthan, Mumbai, Golden Triangle, Taj Mahal (Agra), Delhi, Himalayan Region, Kashmir, Backwaters, Wildlife, etc. Exploring these globally acclaimed destinations of the country provides delightful experience of India tourism. Below is information about seven topmost travel destinations of the country. Often tourists plan to visit these destinations in India.
Taj Mahal: India’s star attraction
Taj Mahal is considered as one of the seven wonders of the world. It is located on the banks of River Yamuna in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. Built in white marble, it is one of the most beautiful monuments in the world. It is the symbol of eternal love. This beautiful monument of love was built by great Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the loving memory of his beloved wife Rani Mumtaz Mahal after her death. It is one of the must visit attractions of the country. Every year, a large gathering of tourists visit this exquisite love monument and do not forget to praise its architecture, beauty and of course to imagine the beauty of Mumtaz Mahal. Worth visiting!
Rajasthan: The land of forts and kings
Rajasthan is a widely acclaimed travel destination of India. It has a wide range of tourist options like heritage tourism, cultural tourism, wildlife tourism, camel safari of rippling sand dunes, etc. There are several magnificent forts and palaces in this state, showing the glorious past of its erstwhile rulers and kings. Some of forts and palaces of the state have now been converted into heritage hotels offering world class accommodation with luxury and unique Indian hospitality. Staying a few days at Rajasthan palace hotels is truly a delightful experience.
Kerala: God’s own country
Kerala is one of the most beautiful states of India. It is globally famous travel destination blessed with exceptional natural beauty. Beautiful beaches, breathtaking backwaters, luxurious houseboats, beautiful temples, verdant hill stations, beautiful landscapes, rich culture and tradition, exotic cuisine, etc are prime attractions of Kerala. Definitely exploring Kerala is an ecstatic experience.
Himalayan regions
Himalayan regions are very popular amongst tourists who like to enjoy adventure and sports, explore the beautiful landscapes, explore rich flora and fauna, and explore pilgrimage centres. This region covers the states of Kashmir (the paradise on the earth), Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. Exploring the Himalayan region Kashmir provides one of the best Indian tour experiences. Himalayan regions also provide opportunity to indulge in thrilling adventure and sports. Also you can visit several religious and pilgrimage sites like Vaishno Devi Temple in Jammu, Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh and several ancient temples in Kullu and Manali. These religious spots are very popular destinations for India pilgrimage tour.
Goa: The land of sun, sand and surf
Goa is the smallest state of India but is extremely popular destination for international tourists. Beaches, Churches, culture, etc are prime attractions of Goa tours.
Khajuraho: The city of exotic temples
Khajuraho is a well-known travel destination of India. It is widely acclaimed for its beautiful architectural temples of love. You can see several beautifully engraved sculptures on the walls of the temples. The perfect balance between architecture and sculpture surely enchants you.
New Delhi: The capital of India
New Delhi, the capital of India is one of the major tourist destinations of the country. There are numerous attractions in this historic city like Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Qutub Minar, India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple, Rajghat, Birla Temple, ISKON temple, President’s House, Old Fort and many more.
INDIA IS a vast country and there are several places of tourist interests that can be explored for a delightful and enchanting experience. Travel and tourism in the country provides a delightful experience with a superb blend of culture, tradition, spirituality, natural beauty and modernisation.
In fact, the county is the land of amazing diversity and its diversity can be observed in all its realms. There are several enchanting travel destination in the country like Goa, Kerala, Rajasthan, Mumbai, Golden Triangle, Taj Mahal (Agra), Delhi, Himalayan Region, Kashmir, Backwaters, Wildlife, etc. Exploring these globally acclaimed destinations of the country provides delightful experience of India tourism. Below is information about seven topmost travel destinations of the country. Often tourists plan to visit these destinations in India.
Taj Mahal: India’s star attraction
Taj Mahal is considered as one of the seven wonders of the world. It is located on the banks of River Yamuna in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. Built in white marble, it is one of the most beautiful monuments in the world. It is the symbol of eternal love. This beautiful monument of love was built by great Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the loving memory of his beloved wife Rani Mumtaz Mahal after her death. It is one of the must visit attractions of the country. Every year, a large gathering of tourists visit this exquisite love monument and do not forget to praise its architecture, beauty and of course to imagine the beauty of Mumtaz Mahal. Worth visiting!
Rajasthan: The land of forts and kings
Rajasthan is a widely acclaimed travel destination of India. It has a wide range of tourist options like heritage tourism, cultural tourism, wildlife tourism, camel safari of rippling sand dunes, etc. There are several magnificent forts and palaces in this state, showing the glorious past of its erstwhile rulers and kings. Some of forts and palaces of the state have now been converted into heritage hotels offering world class accommodation with luxury and unique Indian hospitality. Staying a few days at Rajasthan palace hotels is truly a delightful experience.
Kerala: God’s own country
Kerala is one of the most beautiful states of India. It is globally famous travel destination blessed with exceptional natural beauty. Beautiful beaches, breathtaking backwaters, luxurious houseboats, beautiful temples, verdant hill stations, beautiful landscapes, rich culture and tradition, exotic cuisine, etc are prime attractions of Kerala. Definitely exploring Kerala is an ecstatic experience.
Himalayan regions
Himalayan regions are very popular amongst tourists who like to enjoy adventure and sports, explore the beautiful landscapes, explore rich flora and fauna, and explore pilgrimage centres. This region covers the states of Kashmir (the paradise on the earth), Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. Exploring the Himalayan region Kashmir provides one of the best Indian tour experiences. Himalayan regions also provide opportunity to indulge in thrilling adventure and sports. Also you can visit several religious and pilgrimage sites like Vaishno Devi Temple in Jammu, Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh and several ancient temples in Kullu and Manali. These religious spots are very popular destinations for India pilgrimage tour.
Goa: The land of sun, sand and surf
Goa is the smallest state of India but is extremely popular destination for international tourists. Beaches, Churches, culture, etc are prime attractions of Goa tours.
Khajuraho: The city of exotic temples
Khajuraho is a well-known travel destination of India. It is widely acclaimed for its beautiful architectural temples of love. You can see several beautifully engraved sculptures on the walls of the temples. The perfect balance between architecture and sculpture surely enchants you.
New Delhi: The capital of India
New Delhi, the capital of India is one of the major tourist destinations of the country. There are numerous attractions in this historic city like Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Qutub Minar, India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple, Rajghat, Birla Temple, ISKON temple, President’s House, Old Fort and many more.
Monday, July 7, 2008
World's Fastest Trains
Train à Grande Vitesse (France)
France loves its TGV. Like an earth-bound Concorde, the über-brisk Train à Grande Vitesse set the record as the world’s fastest wheeled train when it zoomed to 357 mph on a test run in April 2007. (Usually, the TGV whisks passengers around France at a still speedy 200 mph.) In the '60s and '70s, France also experimented with a high-speed hovercraft train called the Aérotrain that was itself capable of reaching an impressive 267 mph. Vive le train!
Alta Velocidad Española (Spain)
Alongside the amazing food of El Bulli and the spellbinding architecture of Calatrava, Spain can also boast one of the best high-speed rail systems in the world. The nationwide network connects Spain’s largest cities, with its sleek Alta Velocidad Española trains zipping back and forth at speeds reaching 217.5 mph. Currently, Spain is tunneling through five miles of the Pyrenees mountains to build a high-speed rail line between Barcelona and the French border.
France loves its TGV. Like an earth-bound Concorde, the über-brisk Train à Grande Vitesse set the record as the world’s fastest wheeled train when it zoomed to 357 mph on a test run in April 2007. (Usually, the TGV whisks passengers around France at a still speedy 200 mph.) In the '60s and '70s, France also experimented with a high-speed hovercraft train called the Aérotrain that was itself capable of reaching an impressive 267 mph. Vive le train!
Alta Velocidad Española (Spain)
Alongside the amazing food of El Bulli and the spellbinding architecture of Calatrava, Spain can also boast one of the best high-speed rail systems in the world. The nationwide network connects Spain’s largest cities, with its sleek Alta Velocidad Española trains zipping back and forth at speeds reaching 217.5 mph. Currently, Spain is tunneling through five miles of the Pyrenees mountains to build a high-speed rail line between Barcelona and the French border.
Shanghai Maglev Train (China)
Talk about making a splash. In April 2007, China upgraded more than 3,728 miles of its rail network to carry trains that soar up to 124 mph, creating what is now the largest high-speed rail system in the world. The giant Asian nation has also earned bragging rights for its Shanghai Maglev (magnetic levitation) Train, which, manufactured by Germany’s Bombardier company, whisks passengers from the Shanghai airport to a downtown station in under eight minutes, traveling at speeds of 267 mph. Shanghai is currently planning the largest railroad station in Asia—14 million square feet of space spread over five stories.
KTX Rail System (South Korea)
South Korea’s KTX high-speed rail system was launched in 2004, cutting travel time between Seoul and Daejeon to just 49 minutes. While the 186-mph KTX was based on French TGV technology, Korea is close to debuting a homegrown, high-speed aluminum train called the G7 that would be capable of running at speeds of 217.5 mph. Looking even further ahead, Korea hopes to bring its next-generation of trains—the 248.5-mph Highspeed Electric Multiple Unit (HEMU)—online by 2011.
Taiwan High Speed Rail (Taiwan)
It may be a relatively small island nation, but that doesn’t mean Taiwan’s travelers aren’t up to speed. The Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) can zoom from Taipei City in the north to southernmost Kaohsiung City at speeds of up to 186 mph—a journey that takes just 90 minutes (one-third the time of a conventional train trip). THSR chose to base its system on the Japanese shinkansen, in part because Japan had built its network to cope with earthquake risks that also affect Taiwan. The private system has already carried 10 million passengers since opening earlier this year.
InterCityExpress (Germany)
Although Germany did not deploy its InterCityExpress (ICE) high-speed trains until 10 years after France’s TGV hit the rails, the country has made up for lost time. The third-generation ICE trains currently in service can whisk passengers from Dresden to Düsseldorf at speeds of 205 mph; and the system is integrated into the rail networks of neighboring Belgium, the Netherlands and France. Meanwhile, Germany continues to develop its Transrapid maglev (magnetic levitation) train, which has clocked speeds of 342 mph in testing.
Eurostar (Europe)
A shining, speeding symbol of the fruits of international cooperation, the Eurostar partnership continues to strengthen links among England, France and Belgium. In September 2007, the opening of new tracks in England allowed Eurostar to set speed records for travel between London and the continent. Travelers can now hop from London to Brussels in just one hour and 43 minutes (moving at 186 mph), or London to Paris in just over two hours. Eurostar passengers have the added bonus of arriving in London at the newly renovated Century St. Pancras station, a masterpiece of Victorian architecture and engineering that practically glows after its $1.65 billion restoration.
Treno Alta Velocità Spa (Italy)
The Italians introduced high-speed rail travel to Europe back in 1978 with the Direttissima, which shuttled between Rome and Florence at a molto rapido speed of 158 mph. These days, Italy’s Treno Alta Velocità SpA company is moving full speed ahead to create a newer, faster rail network. In 2005, the line between Rome and Naples began carrying passengers at 186 mph. A second line capable of the same speed opened next between Turin and Milan. Engineers are working on extending Italy’s high-speed networks across international borders into neighboring France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia.
EUROTEM (Turkey)
As bureaucrats bicker over whether Turkey is modern enough to join the European Union, the Turks themselves prefer to spend their time constructively building their own state-of-the-art high-speed rail network. Using trains purchased from Spain, Turkey plans to cut travel times between Istanbul and Ankara in half, letting passengers make the journey in just three hours at speeds of 186 mph. Meanwhile, Turkey and South Korea have joined forces in a partnership called EUROTEMP to build the next generation of Turkish high-speed rail, with trains capable of speeds as high as 217.5 mph.
World's Fastest Trains
Shinkansen Trains(Japan) Japan pioneered high-speed rail travel in 1964 when the Tokaido Shinkansen began passenger service between Tokyo and Osaka. The first bullet trains took four hours to make the trip, but the latest generation of N700 shinkansen trains have a top speed of 186 mph and can make the journey in two hours and 25 minutes. According to Japan Railways Group, the lightening-fast network has carried more than six billion passengers in its 40-plus years of service. Japan also set the current world-record speed for rail in 2003 when its experimental MLX01 maglev (magnetic levitation) train attained a speed 361 mp.
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