Spice up Your Holidays with the Best Tourist Places in the World

Since the people in the world are thoroughly busy at the present time, taking a holiday trip to the best tourist places in the world is well to have fun with families and to enjoy holidays. Nowadays tourism has become a popular global leisure activity and is vital for many countries. Every tourist spots in the world has its own inbuilt or demonstrated cultural importance, past significance, pristine or built splendor, or enjoyment occasions. India is one of such tourist countries. Here are some best attractions of India as well as of the world.

Kerala

Kerala Backwaters

A perfect example of natural beauty is Kerala. Being a southern state of Indian subcontinent, Kerala offers the globe trotters a pristine beauty of nature. For its natural wonders and rich culture, it is well known as the Gods Own Country. There are lots of hill stations, waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, etc and are the perfect destinations to experience the natural amazement of Kerala. Kerala is a wonderful location to chill out holidays and to enjoy your honeymoon trip too. Backwaters of Kerala are the best way to acquire the attractiveness of this southernmost state of India. Nowadays, Kerala is famous for the world’s richest temple, Sri Padmanabhaswami Temple, which is in the capital district of Kerala. Since the west is a coastal side of Arabian Sea, globe trotters can enjoy the fantastic beaches as well. Kovalam beach is the famous beach side of Kerala. Read reviews about Kerala tourist attractions.

Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal

The prime attraction of India which is a standalone tomb represents India in the world is Taj Mahal. Included in Seven Wonders of the World, Taj Mahal is the fore most UNESCO world heritage sites of India as well as in the world. With its magnificent architecture combinations and immense structure, this tomb draws most tourists to India. The combination of Persian and Turkish architectures with the Mughal architecture makes Taj Mahal an individual one in the world.  This tomb is a perfect example of traditional architectures of India and stands a step forward of any other attractions in India. It can be seen similar by the four sides and the main attraction is the marble architecture that gets on the top which is decorated with a lotus design and its shape is emphasized by four smaller domed kiosks placed at its corners. For this reason that of its shape, the dome is frequently named an onion dome or guava dome.

Wagah Border

Wagah Border

Wagah Border is the only road border crossing between India and the neighboring country Pakistan. The most exciting feature of this village is that the eastern half remains in India and the western half is in Pakistan. It is predominantly well known for the sophisticated Wagah border ceremonial that takes place at the border gate before sunset each day. The ceremony begins with a vociferous parade by the soldiers from both the sides, and ends up in the absolutely harmonized lowering of the two nations’ flags. It is called the beating retreat border ceremonial on the international level. The manifestation of the ceremony exerts a pull on many visitors from both sides of the border, as well as global tourists.

Vaishno Devi Mandir

Vaishno Devi Mandir

One of the holy Hindu temples dedicated to Shakti, Vaishno Devi Mandir is situated in the hills of Vaishno Devi in Jammu and Kashmir, India. Vaishno Devi, also known as Mata Rani and Vaishnavi, is a manifestation of the Mother Goddess in Hinduism. Near to the town of Katra, in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, this Hindu worship place is one of the most honored places of worship and the second most visited religious shrine in India. The way to towards Vaishno Devi Mandir is precipitous and entails a long walk climbing the hill. On the other hand helicopter services can be in use for a large part of the journey. The Trust tenders contented hang about for pilgrims.

Amarnath Cave

Amarnath Cave

The well known shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, Amarnath cave, is also situated in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. This shrine is considered to be one of the holiest shrines of Hinduism and can be reached through Pahalgam town of the state. Surrounded by the snowy mountains, the cave is itself covered with snow most time of the year. It is open for pilgrims for a short period of time in summer when it is cleared off with snow. The most attracting feature of this cave is the Lingam formed with ice. It has been said that the lingam grows and shrinks with the phases of the moon reaching its height during the summer festival but there are no scientific evidence for this belief. Because of this feature, a mass number of tourists visit Amarnath Cave in summer season.

Kashmir

Kashmir

The heaven of earth, Kashmir said to be the paradise. After rebounding the tourism in Kashmir Valleys in the past years and is became one of the best tourist places in the world. The famous adventure in Kashmir is skiing. Gulmarg, which is named for its amazing natural beauty and is counted as the unique tourist destination, is the famous ski resort here in Kashmir and is well known across the country. Kashmir, the paradise of earth, is also a home to the highest green golf course. Sonamarg, Raghunath Temple, Bahu Fort, Mubarak Mandi Palace, Peer Baba, etc are the rest attractions in Kashmir to enjoy the vacations.

Shirdi

Sai Baba Mandir Shirdi

The foremost feature of Shirdi in Maharashtra is the Sai Baba Mandir. Popularly known as the Child of God, Sai Baba preached endurance towards all beliefs and the message of universal brotherhood. Each disorder at Shirdi turns around the vast temple complex dedicated to Sai Baba. Devotees start queuing up in the early hours of sunrise to catch a quick look and seek out the blessings of the life-size statue of Sai Baba. There are other places of interest that devotees can visit as well including Dwarkamani Mosque where the Baba pondered and slept on alternate nights. Near the mosque, in a hallway is the eternal flame that burns day and night. Other places of importance are the Gurusthan, the Kandoba Temple, Shani Mandir, Narsimha Mandir, Changdev Maharaj Samadhi and the Sakori Ashram.

Rameshwaram Temple

Inside Rameshwaram Temple

Pilgrimage tour is not complete devoid of taking a trip to Rameshwaram. The temple in Rameshwaram looks forward to thousands of pilgrims every year. Rameshwaram Temple is one of the most sacred places in the city and it is whispered that whosoever visit Varanasi, is made-up to take Rameshwaram Temple tour to complete his pilgrimage. By way of exceptional architecture, Rameshwaram Temple shrine is decorated with huge Gopurams, Nandi and monolithic walls. Two major festivals celebrated with great splendor and eagerness at this sacrosanct shrine here in Rameshwaram are Bhrammotsavams held in the Tamil months of Aadi and Maasi and Rama’s worship in the month of Aani.

Munnar

Munnar Hill Stations

Munnar is well known as the Heaven of South India. The tea plantations on the Munnar hills together with the mist surrounded offers the best scenario for the tourists. Situated in the Idukki district of Kerala, Munnar is an exceptionally extravagant and charismatically enchanting hill station to be found on Western Ghats. Munnar has the whole thing a nature buff expects and presents plentiful opportunities for those who look for a holiday from it. With a innumerable assortment of amuse options, Munnar encourages all kinds of vacationers such as families, children, honeymooning couples, etc and by means of a mass number of tourists every year, Munnar became one of the best tourist places in the world. Eravikulam National Park is one of the prime attractions of Munnar which is an abode of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.

Gateway of India

Gateway of India

The Taj Mahal of Mumbai, the Gateway of India, is positioned on the sea front in the Apollo Bunder area of South Mumbai. This sumptuous testimonial was built in memory of the British king George V and Queen Mary. Nowadays this shrine became the foremost attraction of the city. Its architecture is a great combination of traditional Gujarat architecture with Roman Triumphal arch. Known formerly as the Apollo Pier, the Gateway of India is a most significant tourist appeal and a well-liked congregation spot too. Thousands of day-trippers from all over the world visit this marvelous monument every single day throughout the year. Boat services are to be had in the close at hand waterfront and tourists can enjoy the improbable boat ride from Gateway of India to Elephanta Island. Representing the Indo- Saracen architectural style with the traditional Muslim architectural excellence, this monument almost stands as an identity of the city.

Cruise at the Taj Mahal of Mumbai: The Gateway of India

The majority of Mumbai tours commence with one meticulous attraction that stands above the rest, overlooking the waterfront of Apollo Bunder in South Mumbai. This Indo-Saracen style testimonial is the glorious Gateway of India. This is the starting point for most tourists who want to travel around the city. It was built as a triumphal arch to memorialize the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. Complete with four turrets and intricate latticework carved into the yellow basalt stone, the Gateway of India well known as the Taj Mahal of Mumbai. Most of the tourists take Gateway of India cruise to explore this magnificent architecture as well as the city.

This significant as well as Mumbai’s most famous tombstone designed by Scottish architect George Wittet, encouraged by the Parisian Arc de Triomphe. This colonial symbol also became a sort of epitaph: the last of the British ships that set sail for England left from the Gateway. It lies at the end of Chatrapati Shivaji Marg at the water’s edge in the harbor of Mumbai and is the city’s top tourist attraction. Here, you can achieve one of the moving up and down little motor launches, for a short Gateway of India cruise through Mumbai’s splendid natural harbor.

Situated on the water’s edge in the Apollo Bunder area in South Mumbai, it is a blend of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles. The magnificent feature about Gateway of India is its structure which is a basalt arch of 26 metres high. The central dome is 15 metres in diameter and 25 metres above the ground at its highest point. The architect united the elements of the Roman triumphal arch and the 16th century architecture of Gujarat, the gateway faces out to Mumbai harbor from the tip of Apollo Bunder. The whole harbor front was realigned in order to come in line with a planned walkway which would sweep down to the centre of the town. On each side of the arch, there are large halls that can hold 600 people. You can plan the excursion to this monument along with your family and friends and you will love the architecture and the various designs that have been made on it.

You will be getting motor launches and this is short cruise and that goes through the natural harbor of Mumbai. If you are planning to make your visit to this place, then you should definitely ensure to visit this place and you will be having a lot of fun and excitement as well. You can stay in hotels near Gateway of India and will be easily getting access to the Gateway of India cruises and launches and it is always crowded by maximum number of people.

Munnar Tour: Experience the Paradise of South India

Munnar Hill Station

Munnar is a gorgeous hill station which is situated near the Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in the Western Ghats. For its attention-grabbing foliage, mountain panorama, serenity and cool refreshing air, this awesome hill station is well known as the paradise of South India. The extensive tea gardens with tall trees sticking out of pointed cliffs, and an overabundance of wildflowers in a uprising of colors, make it look like a painter’s work of art. Layers and layers of tea estates, mountain mist, waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries make Munnar almost surrealistically stunning. Foggy mountain peaks merge pleasantly in Munnar to create a heavenly impression that is hard to depict. The only way to portray this magnificent picturesque landscape is to take a Munnar tour. Munnar attracts honeymooners as well as tourists all the way through the year.

Tea Plantation in Munnar

Munnar is one of the attractions that made a payment to Kerala’s, the southernmost state in India, recognition as a travel destination among domestic and foreign travelers. It is a weekend hideout location for domestic tourists during summer season. Foreign travelers like watching the natural beauty of Kerala while the drive from Thekkady to Munnar. Gasping in the crusty, clear and unpolluted air, relaxing and eating are the additional bonuses of going to Munnar. Getting around the mountains that surround Munnar is an experience one cannot miss, not in a million years. The tea estates, hills, lakes and forests inside Munnar tour are revealing its beauty. The tea plants covered Munnar hills makes the feeling of seeing a wide green carpet. The supercilious mountain ranges with cloudy peaks, rambling tea estates and peaceful climate presents a quiet and peaceful resort.

This little sluggish village atop the Western Ghats is located at the convergence of three mountain streams namely Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. The town itself is usually Indian with the usual shops, guest houses and is really beautiful and traditional. Panoramic sights of lowflying clouds and mistfilled valleys make it a pretty little heaven with a cool, refreshing climate. All along you will be serenaded by the sound of gurgling brooks or waterfalls seeping through narrow rocks. Pause on the way, maybe to buy farm fresh carrots from a vendor or small souvenir shops selling wooden relics and a range of authentic spices. It is a good place to stay to see the surrounding countryside and also a popular place for Indian honeymooners.

Eravikulam National Park

Eravikulam national park is one of the main tourist attractions, where you can find the dying out species such as Nilgiri Tahr, Gaur, Langur, Lion-tailed macaque, and Elephants depending on the season and time of travel. Trekking towards Rajamala in the morning is in no doubt to spot a few friendly Nilgiri Tahrs. Tata Tea Museum, CSI Church, Devikulam lake town, Mattupetty, Rajamala, Kundalai Dam, Marayoor, Chinnar Wild Sanctuary, Blossom International Park, the highest peak of South India Anamudi, etc are the other magnificent spots to explore in Munnar. A collection of old bits and pieces from the colonial era can be seen in Tata Tea Museum. The hill station of Munnar once used to designate the summer resort of the former British administration in south India.

Munnar has set of resorts and hotels to meet the prerequisites of all types of visitors. Home stay facility is also available even though it is few in number. Advance booking is available during peak seasons. Due to the cool climate over this place, hotels don’t have air conditioners. Hot water, extra woolen blankets and room heaters are offered by most of the hotels. Let us now walk around some of the choices in and around Munnar tour that would present travelers plenty of chances to enjoy the charming hill station of Munnar.

Rameshwaram Temple Tour: Explore the Varanasi of South India

Pamban Bridge, Rameshwaram

The grateful pilgrimage destination, which stands for the southernmost of the 12 Jyotirlingams of India, which are connected intimately with the Ramayana, Rameshwaram Temple or Ramanathaswamy Temple, is looked upon as one of the most sacred places of pilgrimage of Hindus in India. Situated in the island of Rameshwaram, this massive temple is known for its long complex corridors, towers and 36 theerthams. One of the magnificent features of Rameshwaram Temple tour is the Pamban Bridge across the sea. One can get in touch with this holy temple via the Pamban Bridge.

4000 Pillar Corridor

Spread out over an area of 15 acres, massive Gopurams, monumental walls, astounding Nandi,  4000 feet long pillar corridor with over 4000 pillars, etc are the major attractions of this temple. The engraved granite pillars are mounted on a raised platform. An exclusive feature about this corridor is that the rock used here is not found on the native island, it was brought in from elsewhere in Tamilnadu across the sea. Rameshwaram temple is known as Varanasi of southern India for its prehistoric marvels and sumptuous architectures. Every year quite a lot of people visit this place with holy purposes of offering sacred prayers to Lord Rama. Legends say that this is the place where Ravana was killed and hence it has a great historical foundation.

Nandi at Rameshwaram Temple

The eastern Rajagopuram has a height of 126 feet and has nine levels whereas the western Rajagopuram is not as tall as the eastern one. The huge image of Nandi is about 18 feet tall and 22 feet in length. By taking a Rameshwaram Temple tour, you can experience all these magnificent features with enthusiasm. The temple also has several mandapams with mini shrines to other deities. High walls enclose the temple, forming a rectangle with huge pyramidal Gopuram entrances on each side. The lingams here are housed in the inner section of the Ramalingeshwara. According to a popular legend, it was Lord Rama who installed this Lingam here. It is said that when Lord Rama was drinking water on the seashore there was a celestial proclamation – “You are drinking water without worshipping me”. Listening to this Lord Rama made a lingam of sand and worshipped it and asked to be blessed so that he could vanquish Ravana. Lord Shiva blessed him for that reason. He also called for Lord Shiva to live in eternally here so that whole mankind should benefit from it. Shiva then manifested himself as the Lingam and got established there for perpetuity.

Shiva Lingam at Rameshwaram

Another legend illustrates that this Shiva lingam was made by Sita and Ram worshipped Lord Shiva, while going back to Ayodhya. There is so far another Shiva lingam here – Viswanathar said to have been brought by Hanuman from Banares. This Shiva lingam is referred to as Kasilingam and Hanumalingam. Prayers are offered to Viswanathar before they are offered to Ramanathaswamy. It has one of the famous Jyotirlingams in the place which one would like to worship as a part of Hindu culture. The place has several wonderful temples, which are a great masterwork of ingenuity. The place has highest number of wells as well.

Rameshwaram is one of the holiest places in India. The place has wonderful statuette of Lord Rama encarved in several walls of the temples and the statues of the lord are made with great creative quintessence. The famous festivals celebrated here in Rameshwaram include two annual Bhrammotsavams, celebrated in the Tamil months of Aadi and Maasi. Another festival is to celebrate Rama’s worship in the month of Aani (June15 – July15). One more thing does take lots of photos of Rameshwaram temple while coming back as a sweet memory with you. Rameshwaram Temple tour is a holy place to carry out several sacraments and people from all across the globe come at this scrupulous place to worship Lord Rama and suggest sacred prayers to the holy deity.

Shirdi Tour: A Pilgrimage towards the Great Saint of Modern India

Shirdi is a small town in Maharashtra famous for the Samadhi temple of Shri Sai Baba, the great saint of modern India. Every commotion at Shirdi turns around the vast temple complex devoted to Sai Baba. This is the place where Sai Baba spent most of his life, and trained his devotees the truth and guided them along the path of love, forgiveness and truth. He is one of the greatest and most loved saints which India had been fortunate to see. After his death, Baba’s devotees built up a temple on his Samadhi that is now one of the most popular religious places in India. Every year, millions of pilgrims take Shirdi tour to catch a glimpse of this holy adobe and to pay homage to the saint.

Marble Statue of Sai Baba

Shri Sai Baba of Shirdi needs no introduction. He was instinctively addressed as Sai by one of the persons who first came in contact with him at Shirdi which means Savior, Master or Saint. ‘Baba’ means father or a grandfather. This mysterious fakir first made his appearance in Shirdi as a young man accompanied by a marriage procession and remained here throughout his life.  He changed lives of all those who came into his contact and is constantly doing so still after his Samadhi in 1918.  Till this date he answers all the prayers and call of his devotees.  He is a characterization of spiritual accomplishment and an epitome of empathy.

Dwarkamai Mosque

During his early days at Shirdi he spent his time either drifting in the outer reaches of village or next-door spiky jungles or sitting under the neem tree in total self amalgamation.  His spirituality was first recognized by Mhalsapati, Tatya Kote, Bayyaji Bai and few others. Bayyaji Bai felt deeply motivated by this Divine Saint.  The mosque in the bounds of the village to where Sai Baba moved after sometimes was named ‘Dwarkamai’, where he resided till the end. This mosque which is the abode of Sai Baba became a place of love, compassion and mercy for all. The place where Sai Baba came to Shirdi as a Bal Yogi is known as Gurusthan. There is a temple at this site and a small shrine in Gurusthan. Devotees start queuing up in the early hours of dawn to catch a glimpse and seek the blessings of the life-size statue of Sai Baba. Thursday is marked by special pujas and darshan of the Sai Baba statue. The small town of Shirdi is full of fragrance with the devotional intensity of devotees from across the world. The hamlet is placed highly on the world map of spirituality.

Gurusthan

There are other tourist attractions that devotees can visit while Shirdi tour as well including Dwarkamani Mosque where the Baba meditated and slept on alternate nights. Near the mosque, in a passageway is the dhuni or eternal flame that burns day and night. The Gurusthan, the Dixit Wada Museum, Shani Mandir, Narsimha Mandir, Chavadi, the Sakori Ashram, etc are the other important places to visit. Gurusthan is a place where Sai Baba was visible to the world for the first time. The famous Neem tree which can be found there is the Margosa which is referred to in ‘Sai Sat-Charitra’. The devotees believe that if they burn incense sticks at Gurusthan they will be cured of their ailments. There is a little enshrining in Gurusthan. On a lifted platform of this enshrine a big portraiture of Baba is laid and on the side Baba’s marble statue is placed. The Gurusthan temple no longer exists since it has been removed to give up for the Margosa to grow. It is open 5 am to 10 pm.

Chavadi in Shirdi

During the last decade of Sai Baba’s life, he used to spend alternate nights at Chavadi. Thus the place became very important. Baba used to be taken in procession from Dwarkamani to Chavadi. Even today procession is taken on every Thursdays. The depiction of Sai Baba, which was placed on a silver stool in the right side of the Chavadi, is now placed near his Samadhi. Also Baba’s footwear is placed near Baba’s Samadhi. The Chavadi is divided into two. One part of the Chavadi has a large portraiture of Baba. It also contains a wooden bed and a white chair which belongs to Baba.

The Dixit Wada Museum is to be found at the center of the Sansthan complex. It is a delightful and compact museum which contains rare black and white photographs of Sai Baba. Baba’s Kafni that is long robes and his leather padukas and his smoking pipe are also on display. Other things which can be seen at the museum are water tumblers, gramophone records, bathing stone, and cooking utensils which were used by Baba. The museum is open for public to visit from 10 am to 6 pm. Pack your bag to enjoy Shirdi tour and be blessed by the great saint of India.

Kashmir Tour: Explore the Beauty of the Paradise

Kashmir, usually identified as the Crown of India, is one of the most gorgeous places on earth. Universally known as Paradise on Earth, this land is a widely favored holiday destination. Studded with Himalayan ranges and thriving Mughal gardens and garrulous streams, Kashmir has a countryside that fascinates all. Most people call Kashmir as the Heaven on the Earth. The land of innocent natural beauty, Mughal erudition, sacred solace and calmness, Kashmir gets ultimate glory to India. Being so popular, it is a must to visit this place. Kashmir tour brings in you to a world of serenity and serendipity which leaves you with most beautiful memories of your holiday spent in heavenly Kashmir. This place is apt for family as well as couple holidays.

Thajiwas Glacier

Elegant and poise are two indispensible marks of Kashmir. Kashmir tour has a lot to present to the visitors and thus from sightseeing places to leisurely activities. The most stunning attractions of Kashmir include Nagin Lake, Dal Lake in  Srinagar, Baisaran, Gulmarg, Golf course in Pahalgam, Thajiwas Glacier in Sonamarg, Lamayuru, Hemis Monastery, Aharbal Waterfall in Pulwama, Kloster Chemrey, Nubhra Valley, etc. The climate here is usually very cold, as it is enclosed by the great Himalayas. Kashmir has whole host of waterways which not only augment its natural beauty, but also offer means of discovering leisure sports. As you pick Kashmir for your holiday, you can travel around various pretenses of the region which ranges from spiritual odysseys to nature walks, adventure experiences and much more.

Gulmarg

Kashmir being hub of adventure sports suggests a whole range of adventure sports activities which includes skiing too.  One of the major reasons for travelers to visit Kashmir is Gulmarg which is the best ski resort in the Himalayas. It is called the Meadow of Flowers and is well-known for its valleys filled with flowers, skiing, horse-riding and also has the world’s highest golf course. Some of the other popular ones are Srinagar which is the capital of the state and very popular for Shikara rides on the Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens and houseboats, Sonamarg which is called the Meadows of Gold, famous for its dense forests and a perfect spot for a great vacation, Nilagrad river whose waters have curative properties for skin ailments, and Patnitop, an awesome snow-clad peaks, freshwater springs and place for adventure sports. You can as well try hands at trekking and mountaineering in the haughty hills of Kashmir.

Amarnath Cave

Kashmir is also renowned as a religious centre for the Hindu devotees. It is the home of various well-regarded holy shrines of the region. The caves of Amarnath, dedicated to Lord Shiva are one of the most famous pilgrimage sites of Hindus located in Kashmir. Vaishno Devi, a Shakti shrine dedicated to Goddess Vaishno is another very sacred pilgrimage site of Hindus. Located on the top of Trikuta Hills of Shivalik Ranges, Hindu pilgrims visit Vaishno Devi from around the world to cleanse their soul of all follies while chanting the name of Goddess Vaishno. Mount Kailash, the divine mountain to be found in Kashmir tour, is being well thought-out a sacred place by five religions of the world. Mount Kailash has never been climbed and thus is chiefly an important mountain in the world.

Dal Lake

Kashmir creates the head of the nation which is crowned by mighty Himalayan ranges.  These snow-clad mountain peaks are ideal venue for some of the most breath-taking adventure sports activities. Sample exquisitely spiced native cuisines and festive teas, then walk off your meal along the rugged trekking routes to the north. Marvel at the famous houseboats of Srinagar and take a spiritual moment to reflect at one of the many pilgrimage sites and religious shrines that dot the region. Shikara is a traditional style houseboat which takes one through most enchanting waters of Dal Lake.  Dal Lake and surrounding greenery is considered one of the biggest attractions of all tours to Kashmir for it is the most ideal way to relish tranquility and beauty of Kashmir valley. Nature walks and Mughal Gardens are a must in all Kashmir packages. The lustrous chinar trees are lined throughout the Mughal Gardens in Kashmir which are namely Shalimar and Nishat Gardens. These gardens are situated on both sides of Dal Lake and are beautifully laden with artificial streams, terraced landscapes and Mughal style pavilions.

Obviously, inhabitant craftsmanship makes for outstanding mementos: carpets and textiles are exceptional shopping features. Shopping for hand-crafted things such as pottery, carpets, bags and even traditional furniture is a must for all Kashmir trip. While touring the region, one can have even more rewarding and inspiring experience by traveling around some of the most sacred holy shrines of different faiths and by observing common rituals and religious practices there. Discover more than what has been already explored and seen and you will be able to let loose more than a few treasures that are hidden inside the stunning Kashmir.

Amarnath Caves Tour: Trip to Holy Cave in India

Amarnath hill station is the well-known Hindu holy place of Amarnath is to be found in the Valley of Lidder. This 14 000 meters great shrine is committed to the trinity of God Shiva. Despite the fact that the original pilgrimage subscribes that the Amarnath cave tour be taken on from Srinagar, the most common practice is to begin journey at Pahalgam, and cover the distance to Amarnath and back in five days. Pahalgam is 96 kilo meters from Srinagar.

Amarnath Cave

The Amaranth Cave was found out by a Muslim shepherd of Batakot, Buta Malik, when he lost his flock and found that it had wandered away into the sacred spot some 150 years ago. Even today his family gets some part of the alms presented by pilgrims. It is a phallus of Shiva, which naturally shaped ice stalagmite that grows throughout the period from May to August and gradually decreases thereafter. Shivling the most important remains linked with two other bodies of ice, one is that of Parvati and Ganesh is the other. Hundreds of thousands of Hindu pilgrims visit this place of pilgrimage every twelve months.

There are many legends related with the cave of Amarnath. One of the legends is that Lord Shiva was telling the secret of creation to Goddess Parvati in a cave in Amarnath. Without their knowledge, a pair of mating doves overheard their conversation. Having learned the secret of creation, the doves now take rebirth again and again and the same cave serves as their abode since then. Another popular legend is that, to make all the gods immortal, Lord Shiva dispersed outer space nectar of immortality amongst them. This led to awarding of the name Amarnath to Lord Shiva, meaning Lord of Immortality.

Shivling inside Amarnath Cave

Each year, Hindu devotees make a pilgrimage to this sacred cave. Being one of the most respected Hindu shrines in India, the Amarnath Cave has been a place of devotion since times immemorial, with references found in many primordial texts. The cave itself is covered with snow most times of the year except for a short period in summer when it is open for pilgrims. Hindu devotees brave freezing temperatures to climb up glaciers and high elevation mountain passes to reach the sacred Amarnath cave, which houses an ice stalagmite, worshiped by Hindus as a symbol of the Lord Shiva. About 700,000 Hindu pilgrims taking Amarnath Cave tour in a year, according to local officials, causing strain on the environment and political stability of the region, which has long fought for independence from India.

Lidder River, Pahalgam

Entry to the cave is regulated, and darshan a rushed situation for there are many others waiting outside to pay reverence before the awesome Shivalinga. The devotees sing bhajans, chant incantations, and priests perform aarti and puja, invoking the blessings of Shiva, the divine, the pure, and the absolute. For those who journey with faith, it is a rewarding experience, this simple visitation to a cave-shrine, the home of the Himalayan mendicant who is both slayer and healer, the greatest of the Hindu deities. The trek from Pahalgam to Amarnath cave is on an ancient peregrine course. The 45 kilo meter distance is covered in four days, with night halts at Chandanwari, Sheshnag (Wawjan) and Panchtarni. The distance from Pahalgam to Chandanwari is 12.8 kilo meters and is covered in about five to six hours, and the trail runs along the Lidder River. Pilgrims camp here on the first night out. A major attraction here is a bridge covered, year round, with ice even though the surroundings are free from it.

The climatic situations are very tentative. Rain or snowfall may come to pass at any time and any place during journey. It is to be predominantly noted that unexpected changes in temperature might occur. Sunny weather may turn into rain / snow fall in a short time. The temperature may fall up to -5 degree C. With the changing time, Helicopters have started operating for Amarnath Cave tour from Srinagar and Baltal which makes this pilgrimage easy and time saving.

Vaishno Devi Mandir Tour: A scenic religious site

Vaishno Devi Mandir is one of the divine Hindu temples committed to Shakti, to be found in the hills of Vaishno Devi, Jammu and Kashmir, India. This holy shrine of Vaishno Devi is nestled in the lower Himalayas on the Trikuta Mountains and it still remains an important pilgrimage site. Vaishno Devi Mandir tour offers extravagant pictorial loveliness for tourists.

Vaishno Devi Cave Entrance

The cave of Vaishno Devi is having the three stones which are also known as pindies which are dedicated to three mother goddess- Mahakali, Mahalakshmi and Mahasaraswati. Round the year millions of devotees visits the shrine and is counted as the second most visited shrine in India after Tirupati Balaji Temple. As it is assumed that Mata Vaishno Devi hides herself in the cave while escaping from evil spirit whom she killed in due course. This holy and divine shrine is one of the ancient travels to India. It is also being said about Mata Vaishno Devi that she is the one who fulfills whatever is wished from her and this is one of the reasons why this place attracts lakhs of devotees from all over round the year.

Shri Maata Vaishno Devi Shrine

In Hinduism, Vaishno Devi, also known as Mata Rani and Vaishnavi, is a demonstration of the Mother Goddess. The attractions here are mainly the temples and most of the visitors to this area are devotees seeking prayer. Shri Maa Vaishno Devi Shrine is one of the oldest shrines of India, located at a height of 5300 feet on the holy Trikuta Hills of the Shivalik Hill Range. The Holy cave is 13 Kilo meters from the Base Camp Katra. Amongst its popular places of worship are the Golden Temple and the Mata Temple. The Golden Temple locally known as the Har Mandir Saheb is among the most sacred shrines for the followers of the Sikh religion. The old city was based around this place of worship which incidentally was located near the original village pool. Being a much adored religious site the area around the Golden Temple urbanized in to a charming city.

Vaishno Devi Temple Entrance

The Maata Mandir Temple is also one of the main attractions of Vaishno Devi Mandir tour as it presents succor to people of all religions and faiths. Sited in the Rani ka Bagh section of the Amritsar town, this religious site has been designed according to the well known Vaishno Devi Temple. It is generally visited by hundreds of pilgrims all the way through the year and it sees the most number of devotees during the festival period. However most visit this site for devout intentions the Mata Mandir holds enormous archaeological value and exerts a pull on a substantial total of tourists concerned in the history and culture of the prehistoric city.

Recognized as one of the Shakti Peethas, this abode of Goddess Durga is supposed to be one of the wish fulfilling places, where lakhs of devotees from India and abroad gather for Ma Vaishno Devi’s blessings. The way to Bhavan is steep and requires a long walk uphill. On the other hand ponies and palanquins are also available. Helicopter service can also be taken for a large part of Vaishno Devi Mandir tour. The trust puts forward comfy stay for pilgrims. The shrine is can be accessed by feet, on horseback or on Dolly – Seat carried by porters.

For the entry to the shrine of Vaishno Devi, pilgrims need to take the free of charge Vaishno Devi yatra slip from tourism reception center of Vaishno Devi Shrine Board at the Katra Bus Stand. The slip must be presented before the check post of Banganga within 6 hours of issue. While coming back you can stay in Jammu and move around many places in Jammu. Any hotel in Amritsar and Jammu guarantees admirable facilities and modern facilities providing you with a soothing holiday.

Have a Great Vacation with Wagah Border Tour

Wagah Border, also referred to as the Berlin Wall of Asia,  is the only road border crossing between Pakistan and India which lies on the Grand Trunk Road flanked by the cities of Amritsar, Punjab in India and Lahore, Punjab in Pakistan. This only crossing point between Pakistan and India is regularly open to foreigners. The border gates have a visitor gallery on each side, on the whole concrete steps created around the border main road. This allows most people in the crowd to get a seat but it is not exceptional to see up to 500-1000 people standing at the outside edge. There are metal barriers to help direct and be in command of the crowds in and out of the seating areas. At the doorway of this outpost, there is a sightseeing gate with a dedication ‘Swarna Jayanti’. There are electrified barriers with 66,000 volts of electric current. Wagah border tour offers you to see all these attractions along with “Beating the Retreat” ceremonial carried out by the soldiers in evening.

Beating the Retreat Ceremony

The daily highlight and the major attraction of Wagah Border tour is the evening “Beating the Retreat” ceremony. The ceremony starts with a stiff-marching parade by the soldiers from both the sides. One infantryman stands at attention on each side of the gate. Soon after, the heavy gates at the Wagah Border are flung open; the two soldiers approach each other, exchange fierce looks, give out mimicked threats, and show anger. They shake hands and commence to lower the Indian and Pakistani flags fixed on high poles at the gates, at the same time. At this point the noise in the open-air theatre transforms into pin drop silence. The bystanders at Wagah Border stay behind acutely quiet in wonder of the ceremony. The only sound being that of the pounding of boots of the soldiers on both the sides as they match steps and try to surpass each other as a part of the ceremonial grandeur. The flags are smartly folded and carried back into the respective camps. There is a final brisk handshake between the soldiers from either side, after which no glance is exchanged. This is followed by the slammed closing of both the gates and blowing of trumpet to mark the end of the grand ceremony.

Flag Lowering Ceremony

The daily flag raising and lowering ceremony at Wagah Border, done with charming solemnity and ceremony that involves lots of tall soldiers in substantial turbans goose-stepping about and slamming gates. Both the Indian and Pakistani border forces do this and it has become a tradition for people from both sides gather and sees this. Both sides coordinate their parade and the entire event is meant to create a feel-good or patriotic dedication amongst the crowd. This interesting ceremony takes place every evening before sunset at the Wagah Border. As the sun goes down, chauvinistic fervor rises and lights are switched on marking the end of the day amidst booming praise. One can visit the Wagah Border right through the year. However, the best time to visit is during the months of October to March, as the weather is cool and pleasant. Summers here are extremely hot and can be avoided for any outside visit. The Wagah Border post remains open daily from 10:00 am till the flag down ceremony in the evening. For the Wagah Border ceremony, it is advisable to arrive well before sunset to grab a proper seat in the open air theater. Depending upon the time of sunset, the flag down ceremony normally starts around 4:30 pm in winters and 5:30 pm in summers. The ceremony lasts for around 45 minutes in total.

It starts with high patriotic spirits from sides of the border. Soldiers march towards the gate at the border, which is thrown open when they reach there. The soldiers salute each other and start lowering the flags. The flags are lowered at the same time. The soldiers retrieve and fold the flags, the gate slams shut, and a trumpet sounds the end of the ceremony. The soldiers then return with their country’s respective flag. By having a Wagah Border tour, you can experience the aggression and the style which show the highest level of pride and prestige to the armed forces to outperform each other.

Taj Mahal Tour Package: An Excursion of Love and Romance

An enormous tomb of white marble, built in Agra by order of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife Mumtaz Mahal, Taj Mahal represents the finest architectural and artistic achievement through perfect harmony and excellent craftsmanship in a whole range of Indo-Islamic sepulchral architecture. With its masterpiece of architectural excellence, Taj Mahal is the jewel of Muslim art in India and has sole artistic individuality in balance, regularity and pleasant unification of diverse ingredients. Situated on the right bank of the Yamuna in a vast Mogul garden, this inimitable Mughal style merges elements and styles of Persian, Central Asian and Islamic architecture. Taj Mahal tour package provides the tourists to experience this funerary tombstone, delimited by four remote minarets, supremacy with its octagonal arrangement capped by a globular dome through the criss-cross of open viewpoints presented by alleys or basins of water.

The pure white marble shimmers of Taj Mahal silver in the moonlight, smolders softly pink at sunrise, and at close of day mirrors the blazing shades of the setting Sun. The dome is made of white marble, but the tomb is set against the plain across the river and it is this background that works its magic of colors that, through their reflection, change the view of the Taj. The colors change at different hours of the day and during different seasons. Like a jewel, the Taj sparkles in moonlight when the semi-precious stones inlaid into the white marble on the main crypt catch the shine of the moon. The Taj is rosy in the morning, milky white in the evening and golden when the moon shines. These changes depict the different moods of woman. So exquisite is the workmanship that the Taj has been described as “having been designed by giants and finished by jewelers”.

As an architectural masterpiece, nothing could be added or subtracted from it. Standing grandly on the banks of River Yamuna, Taj Mahal is identical to love and romance which is all enclosed in Taj Mahal tour package. Nothing short of an architectural sensation, no doubt it stands conceited at being one of the Seven Wonders of the World. And the rich beauty of this visual spectacle turns intuitive when one hears the story behind it. Taj Mahal in fact means ‘Crown Palace’ and this mausoleum is absolutely one of the most well preserved and architecturally rich tombs across the world. The charming tomb makes known its delicacies only to those who wish to respect its beauty without being in a rush.

Taj Mahal draws a millions of tourists from all over the world in a year. Both domestic and foreign tourist visit Agra city located in Uttar Pradesh. Indeed Taj is an architectural wonder and the main reason for its universal appeal is it is the Epitome made for Love. Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built Taj mausoleum to immortalize his love for beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal who died of child birth. The white marble architecture of Taj makes one spellbound at first sight. The intricate carvings, the archway, the garden in front of Taj all makes a traveler oblivious.  Stare at this exemplar of everlasting love while walking in the middle of lush green manicured gardens with Taj Mahal tour packages.

You will experience as if you have been elated to some other world. The gleaming sands of the Yamuna provide it handsome surroundings that work wonders for its change of colors for the duration of different times of a day.

Some Attracting Features about Kerala Tourism

Kerala, placed on the south-western tilt of India, takes pleasure in unique environmental features that have made it one of the most adored tourist destinations in Asia. Fondly referred to as ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala is one of the 50 destinations of a lifetime and one of the thirteen paradises in the world. The levelheaded climate, unruffled beaches, peaceful extends of backwaters, thriving hill stations and striking wildlife are the major pulling towards traits about Kerala tourism. The cultural wonders such as classical art forms, colorful celebrations, and unusual cuisine show the edifying prosperity of Kerala. Season never ends in Kerala.

Stiff between the Western Ghats on the East and the Arabian Sea on the West, this narrow strip of land is a destination of a lifetime. The timeless beauty of the palm fringed beaches of Kovalam and Varkala, the majesty of the undulating hills of Munnar and Vagamon, the serenity of the pristine backwaters of Kumarakom & Kuttanad and the enchanting woods and forests of Thekkady and Silent Valley will have you bowled over. That such a small terrain can hold diverse geographical features and cultures is a wonder in itself.

Waterfalls

Aathirappilly Waterfalls

A journey in the course of the copious forests and hill stations in Kerala will take you to some of the best waterfalls that you have ever experienced in your life before. The water burbling down the rocky cliffs, enclosed by lush green plants is a vista you would never want to miss. The falls at Aathirapilly, Soochipara, Thusharagiri or Thommankoothu, etc are the places that show you an aspect of nature that is wild, soothing, and calm simultaneously. The marvelously landscaped way to Aathirapilly gives you sights of the milky white waters that flood past rocks, noisy a rhythm that will make you forget all worries. In summer these waterfalls keep within bounds to calm gush where you can sit on the rocks and enjoy this scenery being in a touch.

Pilgrimage

Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Kerala is well-known for its abundant places of worship. Temples, churches or mosques, in each district in the state are significant pilgrim centres that are visited by devotees all through the year. Of these the most famous pilgrim centre is the Sabarimala Temple in Pathanamthitta district. Mandalapooja in the month of November and Makaravilakku in the month of January are the two main events here in Sabarimala. The Guruvayoor Sri Krishna Temple and Sri Vadakkumnathan Temple in Thrissur, Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple, Cochin, Sri Padmanabhaswami Temple, Trivandrum, are some of the famous temples in Kerala among many others.

The Mary’s Forane Church

Christianity in Kerala is supposed to be as old as the Christian era itself as a result giving some primeval churches to Kerala. The Mary’s Forane Church (oldest church in Kerala), Malayatoor Church accepting the footsteps of St Thomas and St Francis Church (the first European church in Kerala) are some of the most well-known churches of Gods Own Country. The mosques in Kerala are usually enclosed arrangements comprising a large prayer hall in the centre with covered verandhas on all the sides. The mosques at Patalayini, the Jama-Masjid at Tannur, the mosques at Ponnani, Malappuram, Jami-Masjid at Baypore in Kozhikode district, Mithqual mosque in Calicut, are some of the famous mosques.

Backwaters

Kerala Backwaters

The coastal provinces of Kerala have an arrangement of waterways, inlets from the sea, and estuaries of over forty rivers, lakes and natural inland waterways connecting coastal towns. This interweaved body of waterways is known as the backwaters of Kerala. Many unique species of aquatic life including crabs, frogs and mudskippers, water birds such as terns, kingfishers, darters and cormorants, and animals such as otters and turtles live in and alongside the backwaters in Kerala. Palm trees, pandanus shrubs, various leafy plants and bushes are a common feature about Kerala tourism backwaters, coloring the nearby landscape, a rich green. Sail the backwaters for an etched mind experience that lets you look into nature’s miraculous land.

Wildlife

Periyar National Park

Kerala, with its lush green tropical forests, attracts some exotic flora and fauna that make it worth your while to get a glimpse of life in the wild. The wildlife of Periyar, Thekkady and the deep dense forests offer the adventure seekers a fine holiday. Bird watching, jungle safaris etc are the other activities perfect for adventure lovers, when exploring the wildlife of Kerala. At the Periyar National Park you may spot the wild elephants, leopard, wild dog, barking deer, mouse deer, Nilgiri langur (a primate), bonnet macaque, sambar, porcupines, squirrels, gaur (Indian bison), wild boar and sloth bear besides the tigers and the Nilgiri tahrs.  Along with animals Periyar is home to monitor lizards, pythons, king cobras and flying lizards. Birds like darters, cormorants, ibises, gray herons, mynas, flycatchers, orioles, wood pigeons, kingfishers, kites, ospreys, thrushes, and parakeets add to the attraction of Periyar. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary also offers the unique opportunity to photograph wild animals at close quarters.

Eravikulam National Park

The Eravikulam National Park is situated in the Devikulam Taluk of the Idukki District. It lures the travelers with its irresistible grace and beauty. The 97 sq km park lies along the high ranges of the western coast in the Munnar Forest Division of Idukki district in Kerala. It is situated on the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu in the north where it extends as the Annamalai National Park. The mountains covered with the rolling grasslands and high level shoals are breath-attractively beautiful. This park was established to protect the Nilgiri Tahr also known as the Nilgiri Ibex. Half the world population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr lives here. Besides the Nilgiri tahr other important fauna are elephant, leopard, tiger, Malabar civet, sambar, barking deer, Nilgiri, langur, python etc. The birds found are imperial pigeon, grey jungle fowl etc. Eravikulam National Park harbors the largest surviving population of Nilgiri tahr.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

The beautiful Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is rated along with the finest wildlife sanctuaries and is one of the best tourist spots in Kerala. Known for its enchanting scenic beauty, Chinnar is a natural habitat for an amazing variety of flora and fauna including some rare and endangered wildlife species. The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary lies in the rain shadow region of the Western Ghats, and so receives comparatively less rainfall in comparison to other parts of Kerala. The plant lives of Chinnar first and foremost comprises of prickly scrub forest, dried out deciduous forest, high shoals and wet grasslands, which supports a wide variety of wildlife. Popularly looked upon as the second locale of the endangered giant grayish squirrel, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary also shelters Asiatic Elephants, Tigers, Sambars, Bonnets, Spotted Deer, Macaques, Indian Bisons and spectacled Cobras to name a few. The sanctuary is also rich in its avifauna and attracts a wide variety of exotic and colorful birds including Woodpeckers, Peacocks, Little Cormorants, Darters and Black Eagles etc.

Silent Valley National Park

Silent Valley National Park is another best tourist mark about Kerala tourism. It rises abruptly to the Nilgiri Plateau in the north and overlooks the plains of Mannarkkad in the south. Despite its name, the Silent Valley (the clamor of Cicadas is conspicuously absent here) echoes with the sounds of teeming wildlife. The denizens of this sprawling habitat of endangered virgin tropical forests include rare birds, deer and tiger. Perhaps, nowhere else can one also find such a representative collection of peninsular mammals, over a 100 species of butterflies and 400 species of moths and other fauna like the Ceylon Frog Moth, Great Indian Hornbill, the Nilgiri Laughing Thrush and the Lion-tailed Macaque. Silent valley is extremely fragile, a unique preserve of tropical evergreen rain forests, totally undisturbed, lying above the equator and the forest strip which causes the summer rains during June- July in Kerala.

Kerala has seen the rise and fall of many an empire the Chera Empire, Kalabhra Interregnum, and the Kulashekharas. The arrival of Vasco Da Gama at Calicut is another familiar sight in the history of Kerala. In fact, the Portuguese had a strong impact on the educational and cultural life of the people of Kerala. Each dynasty, each rule and each era has left behind a legacy which is now a part of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. Kerala has several forts, palaces, cemeteries and citadels, some of which are very well preserved and others which still retain an irresistible charm despite the worn down state they are in. The hills, rocks and valleys which contribute to the very unique character of Wayanad and Idukki provide a lot for adventure tourism.