Incredible India - Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh India

An Overview
Location: State of Uttar Pradesh.
Famous for: The Ghats, Benaras Hindu University, Temples.
Ideal time to Visit: September- March.

About Varanasi
By visiting Varanasi in the state of Uttar Pradesh, you will be visiting one of the oldest living cities in the world. Some call it Varanasi, some call it Benaras while the devout refer to it as Kashi, meaning the city of light. Apart from being a living lesson on Hinduism, the city of Varanasi is also much popular for its rich tapestry of music, art and education. For shopping enthusiasts, Varanasi offers a wide range of Banarasi sarees, woven from silk. The sight of the sun setting over the holy Ganges, the pilgrim-packed ghats, soul stirring chants and above all a holy dip in the diving Ganges are the highlights of a Varanasi trip. Mahashivratri (Jan/Feb), Holi (Mar/Apr), Ganga Dussehra (May/Jun) and Shri Krishna Janmashtami (Sep/Nov) are some important Hindu festivals in Varanasi.

Major Tourist Attractions in Varanasi
Your trip to Varanasi is mostly spiritual and you are going to touch and feel the spiritual heart of India. So follow the codes of conduct and be determined enough. The highlights of your trip to Varanasi are as follows.

The Ghats
On the edge of river Ganga lies the eighteenth-nineteenth century temples. Every day thousands of devotees take a holy dip on the riverbanks. Ideal time to visit a Ghat is just after the sunrise. One can take a boat-ride to see the Hindu pilgrims taking dip in the holy waters of the river Ganga. The boat ride starts from Dasashwamedh Ghat and ends at Manikarnika Ghat along the sacred Ganges Famous Ghats are Asi Ghat to Kedara Ghat, Chauki Ghat to Chaumsathi Ghat, Dashashwamedha Ghat. According to belief, a dip in the holy waters purifies ones sins.

Vishwanatha Khanda
Vishwanatha Khanda is an old city of Varanasi and is famous for its magnificent temples. The temple Visheshwara commonly known as The Golden Temple is adorned with a 15.5m gold-plated minaret. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The prime attraction, the shivalingams, which is hidden behind the wall, can be access through the most unassuming gateways. Thousand of devotees visit the temple every day. Besides, there are other temples like the Tulsi Manas Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, and the Durga Temple, which are prime attractions for the devotees.

Benaras Hindu University
Benaras Hindu University is one of the biggest and oldest universities in North India. It spreads on an area of 2000 acres. Pt. Madan Mohan Malviya established this great place of education for the study of Indian art, culture.

Bharat Kala Bhawan
It is a museum that houses one of the finest collections of Mughal miniature paintings and scripts.

Visit Timings: 10.30 A.M. to 4.30 P.M.

Ram Nagar Fort and Museum
Ramnagar Fort was the residence of the Maharajali of Varanasi. Situated on the bank of river Ganga, the fort also treasures lot of precious wealth

Excursions from Varanasi
The Buddhist pilgrimage centre of Sarnath is just a few kilometres from the city of Varanasi. Other options of excursions from Varanasi are given below.

Sarnath
At a distance of 40 Km. Sarnath- the city of Buddhist pilgrimage retaining the ruins of the ancient seat of learning, a place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon to his first five disciples. There is also a museum, which displays artifacts dating back to 3rd century BC.

Wildlife Sanctuary
Dense forests of Chandraprabha lie at a distance of 70km.from Varanasi. Amidst the sanctuary are the splashing waterfalls of Rajdari and Deodari, and is a home to many wild life species.

Vindhyachal/ Kausambhi
The famous temple of Vindhyavasini Devi, Ashtabhuja Devi and Kalikhoh are the major sites of tourist interest locates at a distance of 75km.Kausambhi Fort reminds of the ancient times of Mahabharata is located at a distance of 185km.

Popular Shopping Centres in Varanasi
Varanasi is famous for Banarasi silks, brassware and copper ware, wooden and clay toys and jewelry, the hand - knotted carpets of Mirzapur. The main shopping areas are Chowk, Vishwanath Gali, Thatheri bazaar, Godoulia , Dashswamedh Gali and Golghar. Specialty of Banaras : 'Langda Aam', a variety of mango, famous all over the world.

How to Reach Varanasi
Air: Indian Airlines connects Varanasi with Bhubaneshwar, Lucknow, Agra and Delhi.

Rail: Varanasi is connected by rail with all the major cities in India.

Road: Regular bus services connect Varanasi to major cities in India. Important highways: Delhi 710kms, Mumbai 1550kms, Agra 610 kms, Bodh Gaya 240 kms, Khajuraho 406 kms, Lumbini 320 kms and Patna 270 kms.

Incredible India - Trivandrum Tourist Attractions

An Overview

Location: Kerala
Tourist Attractions: Kovalam Beach, Thiruvallam, Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Local Tongue: Malayalam, Tamil, English
STD Code: (91) - 471
Best time to Visit: October to April

About Trivandrum
Trivandrum is the anglicised form of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of the southern Indian state of Kerala. The tourist-friendly city of Trivandrum is built over seven hills and is also popular the 'City of Anantha'; Anantha refers to the sacred serpent in Hindu mythology. The city has got ample facilities to make tourists and travellers feel at home. The city's geographical and socio-economic nature connects it well with the countries of the Middle East and South of India (Sri Lanka and Maldives). Trivandrum has its own full-fledged international airport and therefore serves as the major gateway to the key destinations of southern India. During your trip to Trivandrum, you can also visit popular beaches like Kovalam and Varkala in Kerala.

Climate & Best time to Visit Trivandrum
The climate of Trivandrum is moderate with high levels of humidity owing to its proximity to the sea. The conditions remain pleasant throughout the year with the average temperature remaining around 30 degrees during summers and mid 20's during the winters. Monsoon rains lash the area from May to September. The best time to visit the place is from October to April.

Major Tourist Attractions in Trivandrum
Awaiting travellers is a variety of tourist attractions in Trivandrum city. Your trip to Trivandrum also gives you an opportunity to visit Ayurveda centres, where you can fix an Ayurveda program for yourself. Given below are some popular tourist attractions in Trivandrum.

Kovalam Beach
Trivandrum is home to three enchanting beaches which with its silvery beaches have always been a major tourist magnet. Swaying palm trees, thrilling adventure sports and the sweet sound of water splashing against the rocks are some of its umpteen wonders. The lighthouse beach is the place where a number of hotels, yoga centres and restaurants have sprung up.

Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram) is the city of the sacred serpent Anantha. The Padmanabhaswamy temple has been set up as a mark of respect for the same, which has an image of Lord Vishnu reclining on an annular snake (Anantha). The temple is built in a Dravidian style of architecture with its walls ornate with beautiful murals.

Thiruvallam
The serene backwater stretch at Thiruvallam is situated just 10 km from Trivandrum. Besides the quite houseboat rides, the tourists can also enjoy canoe rides.

Kuthiramalika Palace Museum
Situated inside an opulent palace built by Maharajah Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma, the museum houses a rare collection of wood carvings, miniature paintings and antique objects.

Sri Chitra Art Gallery
The art gallery displays priceless works from the personal collection of Raja Ravi Verma. Situated near the Napier Museum, the place also houses exquisite piece of art from the Rajput, Tanjore and Mughal dynasties.

Excursions from Trivandrum
Moving just a few kilometres away from Trivandrum will get you to famous tourist spots like Kanyakumari and the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. Following are the options of excursions from Trivandrum.

Kanyakumari
Also known as Cape Comorin, this is the southern most part of India. The land's end is the point where three seas, Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal come in unison. The place is more popular as a religious destination while the view of the sun setting behind the ocean is also worth appreciating.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Situated on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a favourite haunt for migratory and resident birds such as the Siberian stork, heron, egret, darter and teal. The most ideal way to spot birds is a boat cruise in the lake along the shores.

Popular Shopping Centres in Trivandrum
A number of souvenir and gift item shops are located on the M. G. Road and the Connemara Market. The must buys on a shoppers list are sandalwood items, brass statues and oil lamps. Antique shops are also a place where you can find some excellent memorabilia.

How to Reach Trivandrum
By Air: Trivandrum has an international airport connected to major cities across the world such as Colombo, Dubai, Kuwait, Mali and Abudhabi. Indian Airlines connects the city with other cities in India with daily flights to and from Cochin, Delhi, Goa, Mumbai and Chennai. A daily Indian Airlines flight departs from Delhi at 9:00 and arrives Trivandrum at 13:50.

By Rail: Trivandrum is a major rail junction of the south Indian railways. The main railway station is located at Thampanoor, which connects the city with other major Indian cities through a number of regularly plying passenger, express and super fast trains. A daily train between Delhi (Dep. 11:30) and Trivandrum (Arr. next day 14:20) is the Kerala Exp.

By Road: The main bus stand is located at Thampanoor, which is the place from where all the long distance buses leave and arrive at. KSRTC operates regular services to all the neighbouring cities in Kerala (including Kollam, Alleppey and Kochi) and Tamil Nadu. Buses also operate between Trivandrum - Kanyakumari and Trivandrum - Thekkady (Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary).

Distance from Trivandrum to Major Cities
Bangalore: 753 Km
Chennai: 70m
Coimbatore: 413 Km
Mysore: 598 Km
Madurai: 264 Km
Kozhikode: 382 Km
Kochi: 220 Km
Kaniyakumari: 87 Km
Pondicherry: 605 Km Rameswaram: 401 Km

Incredible India - Bollywood Mumbai

An Overview

Location: Maharashtra
Tourist Attractions: Gateway of India, Victoria Terminus, Chowpatty Beach
Best time to Visit: October to March
STD Code: (91) - 22

About Mumbai
India's financial powerhouse, Mumbai offers travellers a heady mix of shopping arcades, nightclubs, theatre, music, gourmet restaurants and numerous sightseeing options. The Koli fisherfolk were the original inhabitants of Mumbai (formerly Bombay), comprising of seven swampy islands. The city of Mumbai in Maharashtra also offers visitors a bunch of touristy beaches along the shores of the Arabian Sea. Today, thousands and thousands of fortune-seekers flock to the city of Mumbai as they call it the 'City of Dream'. On the one hand, you have the glitz and glamour of Mumbai to soak up. On the other, the city also reminds you of the British Era; the Victorian townscape is still quite much visible. During your trip to Mumbai, you can also participate in the Ganesh Chaturthi Festival, celebrated with much pomp and show.

Climate & Best time to Visit Mumbai
Each season in Mumbai carries a unique charm. The climate in Mumbai remains pleasant throughout the year, with temperatures remaining constant (around mid 20s) during winters (November to February) and mid 30's during summers (March to June). Monsoon season arrives in July and the city is lashed by heavy rainfall. Although the best time to visit Mumbai is the months between October and March, the place can be visited throughout the year.

Major Tourist Attractions in Mumbai
In Mumbai, sightseeing is fun and makes a lot if sense. There is a good variety in terms of tourist attractions in Mumbai as well. You have to visit monuments, museums, beaches, tombs, cave and even hill stations. Some major tourist attractions in Mumbai are as follows.

Gateway of India
Over the years the gateway of India has become synonymous with Mumbai. The monument was built in the year 1911 to celebrate the visit of King George and Queen Mary to Mumbai. It was here that the last of the British troops departed from after India's independence. The surrounding area makes an excellent picnic and hangout spot.

Victoria Terminus
Popularly known as V T, the head quarters of the Peninsular Railway Company was designed by F W Stevens. Opened for public in 1887, the site is listed as one of the top 200 heritage monuments on the planet.

Chowpatty Beach
Chowpatty beach is one of the most popular places in the city which starts to teem with life every evening. People from all over Mumbai come here for leisure and enjoyment. While on a visit to the place, do not miss out on a spicy treat of 'bhel puri' (a local dish).

Marine Drive
The marine drive runs along the sea from Nariman Point to the Malabar Hills. A most favored long drive, it is an ideal place to watch the sunset.

Elephanta Caves
Nine kilometers from the Gateway of India, the Elephanta caves, situated on the Elephanta islands are a group of ancient rock cut caves dating back to the sixth century. The caves here house Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vishnu.

Matheran
Just a few kilometers away from the din and bustle of Mumbai lies Matheran. Calm and serene, Matheran promises a refreshing break for the nature starved urban soles. Enjoy a beautiful view of sunset from the hills or just take a quite walk by the lake side, there is a unique charm in every aspect of life at Matheran.

Lonavala
Lonavala is a famous hill station located just 120 km from Mumbai. Ideal as a weekend getaway, the place is bestowed with numerous gifts by mother nature, being adorned with placid lakes, lush greenery and gurgling streams of water descending from the hills.

Popular Shopping Centres in Mumbai
Mumbai has a number of shopping locales where you can shop for everything from local hand made stuff to international brands. Places like Chor Bazaar, Zaveri Bazaar, Crawford Market and Bandra promise you an unforgettable experience while improving your bargaining skills. Some of the must buys include antiques, jewellery, leather goods and wooden articles.

Dining Out in Mumbai
Some of the best multi cuisine restaurants in Mumbai include Aangan The Restaurant (Vashi), Bagicha (Juhu), Delhi Darbar (Andheri), Desire (Vile Parle), Grass Hopper (Vile Parle), Jewel of India (Worli) and Just Kababs (Colaba).

Nightlife in Mumbai
If you are a late-night freak and love to party, Mumbai is the place. As soon as night begins to fall, Mumbai seems to acquire a brand new persona. The city has countless nightclubs where you can shake a leg and sway your hips to popular western music. The suburbs of Colaba, Juhu and Bandra have come up with a number of nightclubs. Your concierge will provide you the complete update about where you can go and enjoy your nightlife in Mumbai.

How to Reach Mumbai
By Air: Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji International airport is located just 29 km from the city centre. A number of international airlines ply regularly to Mumbai from countries all over the world such as Canada, France, Mauritius, Britain, Egypt, Japan etc. The domestic airport is located at santacruz in northern Mumbai. The major domestic flight carriers operating services to all major Indian cities include Indian Airlines, Jet Airways, Air Sahara and Air Deccan.

By Rail: Mumbai is an important railway station of both the western and central railways. Local trains, which can be boarded from Churchgate station, connect almost every locality in Mumbai and are the best means of local travel (though the tourists should avoid traveling by local trains during peak hours when these things can get extremely crowded). The interstate trains can be boarded from Mumbai Central Station and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (VT) with computerised ticket booking system installed at both these locations.

By Road: The entire state of Maharashtra has a well built and well maintained network of metalled roads that connect the city with other major neighbouring cities. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation operates deluxe and standard buses to all the neighbouring cities in and outside the state including Pune, Gujarat, Goa and Andhra Pradesh. The main inter state bus stand of the city is located just outside the Mumbai Central Railway Station.

Local Transport: There are various means to travel across various destinations inside the city, which include BEST (one of the largest bus networks in the country) that also provides you with the added excitement of traveling in Double-Decker buses. Besides, metered taxis and auto-rickshaws are easily available to travel across the city and its suburbs, which are easily recognized by their unique black and yellow colour. Cars are also available for hire, although you will need a valid international license to drive in Mumbai.

Distance from Mumbai to Major Cities
Ahmedabad: 545 Km
Aurangabad: 403 Km
Delhi: 1407 Km
Panaji: 593 Km
Pune: 163 Km
Surat: 263 Km

Incredible India - Pink City Jaipur

An Overview

Location: Rajasthan
Famous as: The Pink City
Ideal time to visit: October- March
Main Attractions: Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Amer Palace, Palace on Wheels

About Jaipur
A traveler’s journey to the land of the maharajahs, Rajasthan, begins from the city of the maharajahs - Jaipur, the capital city of the state of Rajasthan. It was back in the year 1727 when Maharaja Jai Singh, after whom the city is named, laid the foundation of Jaipur city. Known all around the world as the pink city, Jaipur forms the much popular tourist circuit of Golden Triangle along with the cities of Delhi and Agra. The old city of Jaipur is enclosed within seven gates, the most important of which are Chandpol, Jaipuri and Sanganeri. The city of Jaipur attracts a good number of both domestic and foreign travellers. Being at an easy striking distance of Delhi, Jaipur has become a major hub for tourists visiting northern India.

Major Tourist Attractions in Jaipur
The architectural heritage of Jaipur is the biggest attraction for travellers. If you are a history freak and would like to explore the elements of the Mughal and Rajpur architecture, Jaipur in the state of Rajasthan is the right place to head towards. Given below are some of the most visited tourist attractions in Jaipur, Rajasthan.

City Palace
The palace is a magnificent blend of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. The part of the Palace is still used by the royal family as a residence and the rest portion is converted into a museum. The palace consists of several structures like Badal Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple, Mubarak Mahal, Chandra Mahal and City Palace Museum. The palace also consists of an art gallery with a superior collection of miniature paintings, carpets and royal belongings. The palace is 3.5km.from Jaipur. The best time to make a visit is from October to March.

Hawa Mahal
Sawai Pratap Singh built the Palace of Winds in 1799. Lal Chand Ustad designed this impressive multi layered five-storey structure. It provides some excellent views of the colorful city. The Hawa Mahal was designed for the ladies of the royal house to watch the enchanting life on the street without being observed.

Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar a stone observatory was built by Sawai Jai Singh between 1728 and 1734. It was built to measure the local time, altitude, the declination of stars, planets and to determine eclipses. Jantar Mantar is a grand celebration of astronomical science and each instrument here serves a particular function and gives an accurate reading.

Jal Mahal
Sawai Pratap Singh built the Mahal in 1799 A.D for royal duck shooting parties. This red sandstone palace is located 6.5 kms from Jaipur on the road to Amber is one of the delightful site at the center of the Man Sagar Lake. First four floors of the structure are submerged in water, only the top floor remains outside. It is also a home to large number of migratory birds arrive at the lake during winters.

Ram Niwas Garden
Located just outside the walled city is the sprawling Ram Niwas Garden. The garden houses the majestic Albert Hall Museum opened in 1887 AD, this impressive building displays a rich collection of paintings, carpets, ivory, stone and metal sculpture among other objects.

Excursion from Jaipur
During your trip to Jaipur, you can easily enjoy excursions from Jaipur. Don't miss to visit the following tourist spots around Jaipur while you are here and do not mind moving away a few kilometres.

Amber Fort
Amber fort lies at a distance of 11km from Jaipur is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Raja Man Singh built it in the 16th century. The fort crowns on top of the hillside, the walls and ceiling of the fort are engrave with ravishing glass mirrors that helps in splashing the sun rays all over the premises. Amber is also known for the marvelous Sheesh Mahal, Jai Mandir, Diwan-i-Aam, Sikh Niwas and the small Kali.

Jaigarh
Jaigarh, or the Fort of Victory, is a rugged fort built in 1726. The world's largest cannon on wheels is preserved here. The spacious parkotas (wallls) watch tower and gateways of Jaigarh are main source of attraction. The fort slso houses a museum, which displays a collection of weapons and cannons, used by the Rajput rulers. There is an excellent view of the Amer Palace from the fort. It is 11km. from Jaipur.

Bairath
The remnant of Buddhist temple 86km from Jaipur lies at Bairath. A mint constructed by Akbar, a charming Mughal garden and an unprecedented monument with carved and painted walls built by Jahangir.

Sanganer
Sanganer 40 km. from Jaipur, is known for its textile block printing, papermaking and Jaipur blue pottery, besides several temples and an old palace. This small town attracts lot of tourist from all over the world.

Popular Shopping Centres in Jaipur
Jaipur is a shopper's paradise. It is famous for leather shoes, blue pottery, tie and dye sheets, scarves and other exotic wares. Jaipur's craft, especially lacquer bangles are famous all over the world. Main shopping areas in Jaipur include Jaipur Handicrafts, Aravali Bazaar, Johari Bazaar, Mirza Ismail Road and Bapu Bazaar.

Famous Festivals in Jaipur

Kite festival
Held annually in January, it is the festival of kites with lights in them and fireworks that brighten the night sky.

Elephant festival
The festival is celebrated in the month of March. It is a festival of colors, and various elephant sports.

Gangaur Fair
Gangaur festival is a unique festival held in April and is celebrated in honor of goddess Guar.

Teej festival
Comes in the month of August essentially a woman festival, it marks the coming of monsoon.

How to Go Jaipur
Air: Through Sanganer Airport, the city of Jaipur is well connected to all the major cities, that include Delhi, Mumbai, Jodhpur, Udaipur. Indian Airlines flights have also started to Dubai from Jaipur.

Train: Jaipur is on the Broad Gauge and hence connected to all the metro cities of India. There are daily trains from Delhi in morning Shatabdhi Exp. Luxurious Palace on Wheel train starts on every Wednesday from Delhi.

Road: Comfortable deluxe and air-conditioned buses are run by Rajasthan Roadways from Delhi (India Gate) to Jaipur. The roads are very good, and it takes around 5-6 hrs from Delhi.

Incredible India - Hyderabad City Tour

An Overview
Location: Andhra Pradesh
Tourist Attractions: Charminar, Golconda Fort
Local Tongue: Urdu, Telugu, Hindi and English
Best time to Visit: September to February
STD Code: (91) - 40

About Hyderabad
The city of Hyderabad in southern India is a complete delight for trip-makers. The imposing Char Minar, the Jama Masjid and the Mecca Masjid are a few grand names that make travellers flock to Hyderabad, the capital city of the state of Andhra Pradesh. Hyderabad is mostly remembered for its Qutub Shahi period wonders. Today, the city is known not only in terms of historical importance but also because of its being the information technology hub of India. The city of Hyderabad was first ruled by the Qutub Shahi rulers. Next, it was reigned by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and the Asaf Jahi dynasty, finally being merged into the Indian Union. Apart from giving you wonderful sightseeing options, Hyderabad also offers travellers the choicest of cuisines, that leave a good taste for a long time.

Major Tourist Attractions in Hyderabad
Sightseeing in Hyderabad is truly a wonderful experience. There are lakes, museums, mosques, forts and palaces to visit. Given below are some of the most visited tourist attractions in Hyderabad.

Charminar
The most popular landmark in Hyderabad, Charminar is situated in the centre of the old city amidst bustling bazaars. The four sided towering structure was built by Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah in 1591 in the newly formed city of Bhagyanagar (later renamed Hyderabad) shortly after shifting his capital there from Golconda. The ruler built the monument in the memory of his wife Bhagmati and is believed to have been constructed on the exact spot where he saw her for the first time.

Golconda Fort
Just a stone's throw away from Hyderabad, Golconda Fort is a magnificent fortress built by the Kakatiya rulers during the 13th century. Built on a 120 mts high granite hill, the fort was originally built as a mud construction but was later extended to include granite structures that are almost 5 km in circumference.

Hyderabad Palaces
The historic city of Hyderabad houses a number of beautiful palaces that stand as witnesses to its rich historical past. Two of the most amazing structures in Hyderabad are the Falaknuma Palace built by Nawab Vikar Ulmara and the Ashmangarh Palace built by Asman Jah, the former prime minister of Hyderabad.

HITECH City
The old part of Hyderabad is laden with ancient structures while the newer version of the place presents a completely different aspect with ultramodern structures, beautiful architecture and contemporary shopping complexes studded in every nook and corner. HITECH city (Hyderabad Information Technology Engineering Consultancy City), situated in the Madhpur area is a 10 storeyed cylindrical structure that houses offices of Indian and International IT giants in over 5,00,000 sq. feet of area.

Popular Shopping Centres in Hyderabad
One of the must visits in Hyderabad is the pearl bazaar where beautiful pearls coming in from all over the world pass through the hands of skilled craftsmen to be molded into gorgeous Jewellery. Other nearby markets sell clothing items including colorful attire as sported by some of the known tribes of Andhra Pradesh.

Biryani Delights
The Mughals have left a deep impression on Indian culture including everything from its architecture to cuisine. Biryani (a dish made of rice and mutton) is an integral part of the Hyderabadi cuisine that best showcases the impact of Mughal culture on a platter. For non-vegetarians, biryani promises a complete gastronomical treat which makes an inherent part of every Hyderabadi celebration. The Hyderabadi biryani has become famous all over the country for its unique flavour and aroma and the spices used ensure complete satisfaction of taste and hungriness. While in Hyderabad, do not miss out on a huge platter of delectable biryani.

Popular Getaways from Hyderabad
Excursions always add to a traveller's taste. And from Hyderabad as well, you can plan quite a few getaways to make the most of your trip to India. Here are some of the most preferred getaways from Hyderabad.

Warangal
The historical city of Warangal is located 140 km north of Hyderabad. The erstwhile capital of the Kakatiya rulers dates back to the 11th century and houses a number of ancient structures of tourist interest. An ancient star shaped temple dating back to the 13th century is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Other places of tourist interest around Warangal are Vinayak Sagar and Kondapuram.

Nagarjunakonda
An important Buddhist centre, Nagarjunakonda lies 150 km south-east of Hyderabad. Among the major tourist attractions here are the 2nd century ruins of a Buddhist centre and the world's largest masonry dam built on river Krishna.

Bidar
History comes alive in the form of 15th and 16th century old ruins at Bidar, situated at a distance of 150 km west of Hyderabad. The prominent tourist attractions at the place include the rangeen mahal or the colorful palace.

How to Go Hyderabad
By Air: The Begumpet airport located at Hyderabad connects the city with all other major Indian cities and a number of International cities including those in the middle east, Singapore and more recently Chicago. An International airport is being constructed in the outskirts of the city and once complete will connect with a number of other destinations. Indian Airlines and other private carriers operate several flights a day connecting Hyderabad with other major Indian cities including Delhi and Mumbai.

By Rail: The Secunderabad railway station, situated at the centre of the city receives regular trains from all the major Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Cochin, Bhubaneshwar and Rajkot. Daily trains between Delhi and Hyderabad are Dakshin Exp. and A P Exp.

By Road: Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation buses connect Hyderabad with all the neigbouring cities in and outside the state. National Highways 7 & 9 pass through the city.

Distance from Hyderabad to Major Cities
Aurangabad: 554 Km
Bangalore: 562 Km
Nagpur: 487 Km
Pune: 548 Km
Tirupati: 592 Km
Vijaywada: 267 Km

Incredible India - Goa Tour and Travel

An Overview
Location: Western India
Tourist Attractions: Beaches, Churches, Panaji, Old Goa
Languages: Konkani, Marathi, Hindi, English and Portuguese
Best time to Visit: October to March

About Goa
In Goa, it is often said, life is an unending party. The plethora of tourist magnets on offer at Goa includes every attraction you can ever dream of. While Goa's endless sprawls of beaches present a pulsating nightlife, incessant rave parties and quite picturesque beaches that take you to a life laid back and completely away from the bustle of the city, the other attractions of the place include ancient churches and charming relics of the Portuguese architecture. Besides, Goa also has an assemblage of diverse wildlife which makes the place a complete vacation package. The Goa carnival, a four day festival celebrated every year during February, is an event when Goa sparkles in its true colours with tourists pouring in from all corners of the globe.

Climate & Best time to Visit
The climate of Goa is generally humid owing to its proximity to the sea although it remains cool and pleasant during the winter months from December to February (avg. temperature between 21 and 32 degrees Celsius). March to May are the hot and humid summer months (avg temperature between 24 and 35 degrees Celsius) while June to September are the wet rainy times when the humidity levels can be extremely high. The best time to visit the place is from October to March.

Tourist Attractions

Goa Beaches
Whether you are looking for endless rave parties, serene getaways or exciting water sports, the beaches of Goa offer it all under the same roof. Take a walk on the sandy beaches and witness the beauty of swaying palm trees and crystal water rolling up the stones or try exciting water sports such as water skiing, water scooter rides, surfing, scuba diving etc. The most prominent beaches in Goa include Anjuna Beach, Baga Beach, Benaulim Beach, Bogmolo Beach, Calangute Beach, Colva Beach, Dona Paula Beach, Varca Beach, Candolim Beach, Majorda Beach and Vagator Beach.

Churches in Goa
Goa houses some of the most charming and ancient churches in the country, mostly erected during the Portuguese rule. The churches besides being architectural marvels are also historically significant sites. Some of the most popular churches in Goa are Church of Our Lady Rosary, Convent and Church of St. Francis, Basilica De Bom Jesus Church and St. Cathedral Church.

Panaji
The capital of Goa, Panaji is a beautiful little place soaked up in a colonial ambiance. The most pleasant way to explore the place is on foot, passing through the labyrinth of lanes lines with colonial villas and beautiful Portuguese architectural structures. The Church of the Immaculate Conception, built in 1541 is one of the most popular of Goa's tourist attractions.

Old Goa
The former capital of Goa, Old Goa was one of the most enchanting tourist attractions during its hey days. The place has been declared a UNESCO world heritage site and houses a number of cultural attractions including ancient temples and churches. Old Goa is home to the largest church in India, constructed in 1640, the Tuscan St. Catherine's Cathedral took eighty years to complete.

Things to Do

Shopping
The most important shopping hot spot in Goa is the flea market at Anjuna. Once popular as a hangout place for backpack travellers, the Anjuna flea market has over the years developed into a full scale shoppers hub with wide range of goods on sale. Traders from all corners of the country come to the place with their local specialties including colorful traditional attire, Kashmiri woollens, silver jewellery and much more. The market held every Wednesday is also a good place to get along with the local people.

Dine Out
Goa is a food lover's paradise with unique culinary delights which are a delectable mix of varied cooking styles. The sumptuous sea food will make you lick fingers. Some of the must try out delicacies while in Goa include Pork Vindaloo, Sorpotel and Chicken Xacuti. Besides these, a variety of sweets also form a major component of the Goan platter.

How to Reach Goa

By Air: Goa's Dabolim international airport is located just 55 km from Panaji near Vasco Da Gama. International flights including chartered planes from a number of European and Middle East countries arrive here, especially during the tourist season. Indian Airlines and some private carriers operate regular services to Goa from Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow and Patna. The approximate flight time between Mumbai and Goa is 45 minutes.

By Rail: Goa is connected to other cities in India through its two major railway stations at Margao (southern railways terminus) and Vasco Da Gama (Konkan Railways Terminus). Daily trains from Goa connect the state with Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad and Pune.

By Road: Goa is conveniently connected by road to all the neighbouring cities and states including Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala. State transport corporation operates daily buses between Goa and Mumbai, Pune, Aurangabad, Bangalore, Mangalore and Hyderabad.

Local Transport: Tourist taxis are available to travel between various destinations across Goa while auto rickshaws are also available to cover short distances. Motor boats and ferry boats are also available that connect certain destinations. Cars are also available for hire.

Distance from Major Cities
Mumbai: 594 Km
Bangalore: 632 Km
Mangalore: 371 Km
Mysore: 677 Km
Pune: 471 Km

Incredible India – Capital City Tour of Delhi

About Delhi

Delhi, India's epicenter of power, is the city where an epic past meets a vibrant present. Anciently known as Indraprastha, the city was founded by the Pandava Kings around 1200 BC. The city of Delhi is mostly remembered and visited due to its high historical visibility. During your trip to Delhi, you will be visiting a number of religious, historical and political sites. Famous Mughal monuments like the Red Fort and the Jama Masjid and the buzzing marketplace of Chandni Chowk are the highlights of your Delhi tour. Delhi forms the favourite circuit of Golden Triangle along with Agra (Uttar Pradesh) and Jaipur (Rajasthan). Locals refer to Delhi as Dilli. The city of Delhi is located in the northern India and stands on the banks of River Yamuna.

New Delhi
Comprises of imperial government buildings of the British Era, including the India Gate and the Presidential Palace, Parliament House. Continue to enthrall your emotions is the majestic Humayun tomb and the 5 layer magnificent towering minaret of Qutab Minar.

Major Tourist Attractions in Delhi
For travellers, Delhi has a number of tourist attractions in store. Apart from historical monuments and buildings, a number of modern-day buildings have been added to the city's attraction list. Some of the most visited places to see in Delhi are listed below.

Moghul Monuments
Purana Quila (Old Fort), Qutub Minar, Tughlaqabad Fort, Humayun's Tomb, Jama Masjid, Jantar Mantar and The Red Fort and many more.

British Monuments
India Gate, the Secretariat Complex, Rashtrapati Bhavan & Mughal Gardens, Parliament House.

Purana Qila (The Old Fort)
The Old Fort, the fortress constructed by Humayun in 1533 and it took 5 years for its completion. Purana Qila had 3 entrances; the Bara Darwaza is the main gateway to the fort. A must see site. Sound and Light show at Purana Quila many episodes from the glorious past are depicted in the 62 minutes light and sound show.

The Red Fort
Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan constructed this magnificent fort in 1648 A.D and it took 10years to complete the construction. It is built in red sandstone and includes many small palaces like Diwana-Aam, Diwana-Khas, Naubat Khana and the Meena Baazar for the royal family.

Red Fort Show Timings:
Summer 1900 to 2000 hrs (Hindi) 2030 to 2130 hrs (English) Winter 1800 to 1900 hrs (Hindi) 1930 to 2030 hrs (English).

The Qutab Minar
This Medieval monument is designated as the highest stone tower in India. Qutub-ud-Din raised the tower in 1199 up to the height of 72.5m. It took 2 decades to finish this red stone structure. It was damaged by lightning in the years 1326 & 1366. Firoz Shah Tughlaq repaired the damage and added the fifth storey.

India Gate
Located in the heart of Delhi, India Gate is famous as All India War Memorials. The coliseum built by Edwin Lutyens in1921is 42m high. The names of 70,000 Indian soldiers are carved on the walls of India Gate who forfeited their lives battling for the British Army during the First World War.

Rashtrapati Bhavan, Delhi
The magnificent structure built over an area of 330 acres was completed in 1929 with an expenditure of 12,53,000. Lutyens designed this majestic structure as an official residence of the Viceroy of India during British rule. It has 340 rooms.

Nightlife in Delhi
Bars and clubs in Delhi seem to grow in number every day. Whether you talk of Le Meridien, Taj or Hyatt hotels, they have all got a big pub and a disc and you can always choose to go there to shake a leg. Or else, you can take a 20-minute drive and get to Noida (Delhi NCR) and enjoy your time at the 'Elevates'. 'Steel' is another good option at Gurgaon (Delhi NCR). The nightlife trend in Delhi is fast catching up and you have a number of options to choose from.

Popular Shopping Centres in Delhi
Connaught Place, Karol Bagh and Chandni Chowk Sarojini Nagar, South Extensions, Janpath are the primary shopping areas in Delhi. The Central Cottage Emporium at Janpath is indeed an excellent shopping joint. It authored the whole shebang that one is looking for, furniture to clothes, leather embroidery shoes that are typically Indian, miniature items that could be gifted as souvenirs. Chandni Chowk is famous for jewelry and saris, is the oldest market of Delhi once the renowned shopping hub of the ladies of the coat.

How to Reach Delhi
Air: Being a Capital Delhi is well connected globally and domestically by Air Ways. Major airlines: Indian Airlines, Air India, some private Airlines like Damania Airlines, East West Airlines fly domestically.

Rail: Being a headquarters of the Northern Railways, Delhi is well connected to broad gauge (New Delhi) and meter gauge (Delhi Main) railway line to all the major part of India.

Road: Inter State Bus Terminal (ISBT) at Kashmiri Gate is the major road head and is well connected to all the parts of India through regular bus services. Taxis and auto-rickshaws can be hired for traveling inside the city.

Incredible India – City Tour of Kolkata

An Overview of Kolkata

Location: West Bengal
Tourist Attractions: Tagore House, Victoria Memorial, Dalhousie Square
Local Tongue: Bengali, Hindi, Urdu and English
STD Code: (91) - 33
Best time to Visit: October to March

About Calcutta
Calcutta or Kolkata is the commercial capital of east India. The former capital of the British Government in India, the city still bears a reflection of the British influence in each of its aspects. Though a bit untidy in its slum areas, the city in its poshest areas can be counted amongst the most cleanest and well maintained cities of India. The people of this 'city of joy' are known for their lively lifestyles and the love of sports, especially football (soccer) and cricket. Amongst the most sought after tourist destinations in Calcutta are the Victoria Memorial, Marble Palace and the Indian Museum.

Climate & Best time to Visit
Owing to its proximity to the sea, the climate in Calcutta is uniform throughout the year with not much difference in temperature during the summer and winter season, whereas the humidity levels can climb to unbearable heights during summer and monsoon season. The temperature hovers between 12 to 27 degrees during summers and 24 to 38 during winters. The best time to visit the city is between October and March.

Tourist Attractions in Calcutta

Relive History
The 'city of joy' has beautifully preserved its history in the form of a number of museums that vividly describe the life and lifestyle as existed years ago. Besides the opulent Victoria Memorial, other places of note are the Indian Museum, Marble Palace, Asutosh Museum, Birla Industrial & Technological Museum and the Nehru Children's Museum, which houses a huge collection of dolls and traditional puppets.

Tagore House
The birth place of the great Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore, Tagore House is an ancient building situated at jorasanko in the northern part of Calcutta. Later converted into the Rabindra Bharati University, the building now houses the centre for Indian Classical Fine Arts.

Dalhousie Square
Calcutta is known for its beautiful colonial architecture. The Dalhousie Square is one such place, which was once the administrative centre for British in India. The post office is built in an Edwardian style of architecture while the opulent Writers Building is an excellent example of the Gothic fashion.

Dakshineshwar Kali Temple
Situated on the banks of the Hoogly river in northern Calcutta, the huge temple built in 1847 in dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna, the saint who did a lot in reviving Hinduism during the 19th century. The headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission, the Belur Math is located across the river.

Nakhoda Mosque
Built in a typical Mughal style of architecture, Nakhoda Mosque is a red sandstone structure, with its construction style based on that of Akbar's Tomb at Sikandara. Consisting of two 46 mts high minarets and a huge dome, the structure was built in 1926 and can accommodate over 10,000 people at a time.

St. John's Church
The ancient church is the burial ground of the founder of Calcutta, Jon Charnock. Constructed in 1787, the church is located adjacent to the Raj Bhawan. Other prominent churches in Calcutta are the St. Paul's Cathedral and the Armenian Church.

Things to Do

Ride the Metro Train
The life and blood of transportation in Calcutta, the metro rail is one of the major tourist attractions of the city. Set up in 1995, the metro rail consists of 17 stations and sprawls over an area of 17 kms, connecting all the major destinations of Calcutta. A ride in the metro is the best way to get a glimpse of the city while covering all its major tourist attractions in a short span of time.

Shopping
Traditional Indian sarees, handicrafts items and other clothing material are the popular buys in Calcutta. The major shopping areas in the city include the central cottage industries emporium at Chowranghee, Shreeram market, the area around Oberoi Grand, New Market, College Street and Dakshinapan complex.

Where to Stay?
Also known as the 'City of Joy', Calcutta boasts of a number of quality hotels and resorts that provide luxurious and comfortable accommodation facilities. Some of the best hotels in Calcutta include the Oberoi Grand (5 star deluxe, situated on Jawaharlal Nehru Road just 21 km from airport, 4 km from railway station and 1 km from bus stand), Hotel Hundustan International (5 star, situated on AJC Bose Road just 15 km from airport, 5 km from railway station and 1 km from bus stand), Hotel Rutt Deen (3 star, situated on Loudon Street, just 15 km from airport, 5 km from railway station and 1 km from bus stand), MBD Airport Hotel (5 star deluxe, situated just 1 km from airport, 19 km from railway station and 15 km from bus stand), Hotel King Crown (5 star equivalent, situated on King's Road) and Great Eastern Hotel (4 star equivalent, situated on Old Court House Street just 14 km from airport, 2 km from railway station and 0.5 km from bus stand).

How to Reach Kolkata
By Air: Calcutta is conveniently accessible by air. A number of airlines operate regular flights to Calcutta from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Bhubaneswar, Hyderabad, Jaipur and Port Blair.

By Rail: Calcutta has two major railway stations at Howrah and Sealdah which link it to other major cities in India. Super fast trains like the Rajdhani Express and Shatabdi Express link Calcutta with Delhi. The Lal Quila Exp. is a daily train between Delhi and Calcutta which leaves Delhi at 20:55 and arrives Calcutta at 7:15.

By Road: The main bus stand is known as the Esplanade Bus Terminus and is located in the heart of the city. State transport buses link Calcutta with all the major neighbouring cities. Another option of traveling to the nearby cities is to hire a taxi. Calcutta is also connected by road to Dhaka in Bangladesh.

Local Transport: The major means of moving around the city are local buses, metro train, metered taxis, ferryboats, cycle rickshaws and auto-rickshaws.

Distance from Major Cities
Delhi: 1461 Km
Mumbai: 1987 Km
Bangalore: 1881 Km
Chennai: 1676 Km
Bhubaneshwar: 441 Km

Incredible India – Bangalore (Silicon Valley of India)

Location: Karnataka
Tourist Attractions: Art Galleries, Kingfisher Speedzone, Bangalore Lakes
Local Tongue: Tamil, Telugu, English
STD Code: (91) - 80
Best time to Visit: September to February

About Bangalore
Which is the first city to get electricity in India? Bangalore, of course! And now there are a number of fields in which Bangalore, located in the southern Indian state of Karnataka, has proved to be the trailblazer. With the arrival of the high-tech revolution in India, Bangalore jumped to the global map and made its mark. Even today, the professionals of Bangalore are busy solving technical puzzles all around the globe. Apart from being the hi-tech hub, Bangalore is also known for its high energy buzz, filled with bars, pubs, discotheques and nightclubs. Not only this, the city of Bangalore also has a number of historical attractions to see and explore.

Climate & Best time to Visit Bangalore
Bangalore is located in the southern part of Karnataka at an altitude of 3113 feet above sea level. The city experiences a moderate and pleasant type of climate throughout the year. Summers (April to June) are mild with temperature hovering around the mid 30's while winters (October to February) are cool and sunny. Monsoon season lasts from June to August. Although the city can be visited round the year, September to February is the best time.

Major Tourist Attractions in Bangalore
Bangalore in Karnataka offers some fine options of sightseeing. There are lakes, palaces, museums and a number of art galleries for you to visit. Some famous tourist attractions in Bangalore are as follows.

Art Galleries
Bangalore has a number of art galleries which house a collection of beautiful paintings and other art objects. Two of the most famous art galleries in Bangalore are the Venkatappa Art Gallery (which consists of a collection of paintings by such famous artists as R. Venkatappa, M. F. Hussain, N. S. Bendre and Rekha Rao) and Karnataka Chitrakala Parishat (opened in 1976, the gallery has a rich collection of traditional paintings and other artifacts).

Kingfisher Speedzone
Experience the thrilling sport of Go karting at the Kingfisher Speedzone. Set up a short while back at Whitefield, this 22 ft wide cement track can accommodate around six cars at a time. A seperate track is available for kids.

Neeladri Amusement and Water Park
Spread over an area of 30 acres, the park is a combination of water and amusement park and consists of over 40 exciting and fun filled rides as also a video game arena, restaurants, ice cream parlors and other fun filled activities.

Bangalore Lakes
The city has a number of shimmering lakes which make a good recreational and hangout spot. The major lakes in Bangalore include the Ulsoor Lake, Sankey Tank and Yediyur Lake.

Bangalore Palace
Constructed in 1887 by Chamaraja Wodeyar, this archaeological wonder is built on the lines of the Windsor Castle and reflects the architectural style of a typical colonial structure. This fortified structure stands in the middle of the city with its interiors ornate with beautiful wooden carvings and other elegant structures.

Popular Shopping Centres in Bangalore
Shopping at Bangalore is an absolute pleasure with everything ranging from traditional clothes to beautiful Jewellery available at a bargain. From the big shopping malls to the roadside vendors, you will find everything such as silk clothes, wooden items, gold and silver Jewellery and incense, which also have the advantage of being produced locally, thus available at a cheap price. Articles of daily use can be purchased from the Super Markets. The major shopping areas of Bangalore are the Mahatma Gandhi Road, Brigade Road and Commercial Street.

Excursions from Bangalore
During your trip to Bangalore, you can also enjoy quite a few excursion. Just moving a few kilometres away from Bangalore would take you to visit picturesque hills and villages. Popular excursions from Bangalore are as follows.

Devarayanadurga
The adventure enthusiasts have a treat in store for them at Devarayanadurga, situated 70 km north of Bangalore. Located amidst lush greenery at an altitude of 1188 mts above sea level, one can indulge in all sorts of adventure activities here besides visiting the ancient twin temples and a natural spring.

Shivaganga
The Shivaganga hill, standing at a height of 1368 mts is a remarkable structure that looks like a bull when viewed from the east, an image of Lord Ganesha from the west, a Shivalinga from the south and like a cobra from the north. The top of the hill affords a breathtaking view of the surroundings.

Bhimeshwari
Situated 100 km south of Bangalore, Bhimeshwari is a tiny village which houses a resort besides which is a river ideal for the sport of angling and fishing. The place also provides an excellent view of the surroundings and the abundant flora and fauna of the area.

How to Reach Bangalore
By Air: The Bangalore airport, situated just 6 km from the city centre is a domestic terminal which also receives a number of international flights from Frankfurt (Lufthansa), Singapore (Singapore Airlines), Kualalumpur (Malaysian Airlines), London (British Airways), Paris (Air France) and Bangkok (Thai Air). Domestic Airlines such as the Government run Indian Airlines, Jet Airways and Air Sahara operate several daily flights to Bangalore from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Goa, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram. For more information on flight timings, refer to the official website of Indian Airlines at http://indian-airlines.nic.in/

By Rail: Bangalore has two major railway stations at Bangalore City and Bangalore Cant. With most of the trains connecting to other parts of the country starting from the city railway station, which is situated near the bus stand. A daily train from Delhi to Bangalore is the Karnataka Exp. which leaves New Delhi railway station at 21:15 and arrives Bangalore Cant at 13:08.

By Road: Bangalore is connected to other cities in Karnataka and neighbouring states of Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra through well built state and national highways. Karnataka State Transport Corporation buses offer regular services to all the major neighbouring cities.

Distance from Bangalore to Major Cities
Given below are distances from Bangalore to major cities in southern India. Have a look at the list.

Chennai: 331 Km
Coimbatore: 340 Km
Mangalore: 347 Km
Madurai: 446 Km
Kochi: 533 Km
Hyderabad: 562 Km
Panaji: 592 Km
Pondicherry: 296 Km

Incredible India – Taj Mahal Tours to Agra

About Agra
Not only foreign visitors, even locals, who have seen the Taj over and again, keep flocking to view the monument of love all the year round. Because when it comes to visiting the Taj there's only one rule: 'Once is not enough'. If you are an architecture freak, you can always come and explore some of the finest specimens of Mughal architecture in Agra. The city was in its full swing during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan who was the builder of Agra Fort and the marvel of love, the magnificent Taj. The deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri, another Mughal wonder, is just at a distance of 37 km from the city of Agra in Uttar Pradesh. While you are here, do remember to book your stay at a hotel that stands close to Taj Mahal so you may enjoy different angles and views of the monument, waking up and going to bed.

Major Tourist Attractions in Agra

Taj Mahal
Taj Mahal also known as the 7th wonder of the world was built by Emperor ShahJhan as gift of love for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. It is a prodigy of splendor made in the white marble. The Taj is an elevated emblem of devotion and love in the world of hostilities and abhorrence.

Agra Fort
Agra Red Fort another gigantic bastion created out of red sandstone was built by Akbar. A portion of the fort was equipped with military forces and rest portion was used as a palace by Shah Jahan. Another site to be visited is Itmad-ud-daulah's the mausoleum has dazzling designs and carving with ethereal creative expertise and it was contrived by Ghias-ud-din, the father of Nur Jahan.

Tourist Attractions Around Agra
The historical city of Agra is a major crowd-puller when it comes to sightseeing. Though the Taj Mahal is the major attractor here, there are a number of other places to see and visit in Agra. The places that are most visited in Agra are as follows.

Fatehpur Sikri
Once the capital of Emperor Akbar lies 37km.from Agra. Agra and Fatehpur Sikri are affluent legacy of Mughal regime. Due to a shortage of water in the city it was deserted after only fifteen years and the capital was relocated back to Agra. Till date the beauty o f Fatehpur Sikri stands with dignity well conserved.

Sikandra
4km from Agra is the monolith of Akbar is a perfect blend of Hindu, Islamic architecture.

Jama Masjid or Jami Masjid
The Masjid was built by Shah Jahan in 1648, At the entrance of the mosque it is engraved that it was built by Jahanara Begum. She was the favorite daughter of Shah Jahan and was imprisoned by her brother along with her father.

Rambagh
The place preserves the majestic ruins of the Mughal city. When Babur came to India he laid the first Mughal gardens 500 m North of the Chini Ka Rauza. It is 35 km from Agra.

Mathura
The birth place of Lord Krishana is one of he religious Hindu Pilrimage ,58km from Agra.

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
The famous bird sanctuary of Bharatpur is at a distance of 54 km from Agra. The sanctuary covers an area of 29 km, is famous for its magnificent migratory birds, Siberian Cranes.

Popular Shopping Centres in Agra
Agra is known for its craftsmen & handicrafts, marble and soft stone inlay work, carpet and leather goods. The city is also famous for its miniature replicas of the Taj. Main Shopping market is Taj Mahal complex, Kinari Bazaar, Raja Mandi and Sadar Bazaar. Another foremost attraction of Agra is 'Petha' - a mouth watering sweet-dish.

How to Reach Agra
Air: It is well connected with all the major parts of the country. Convenient airports from Bombay are Jaipur (174 km) and Delhi (182 km) since there are no direct flights to Agra from Bombay.

Rail: Agra is between Delhi Mumbai broad-garge railway line. Palace on Wheel a luxurious train also covers Agra.

Road: Agra is connected to Delhi, Rajasthan and other cities of Uttar Pradesh by an excellent bus service. Within the city one can move around by the local transport that comprises of cycle rickshaws, tangas and taxis.

Incredible India - Mussoorie Hill Station Tours

An Overview

Location : Uttaranchal
Altitude : 2005 mts above sea level
Languages : Hindi & Kumaoni
Best time to Visit : April to July & September to November

About Mussoorie
From a quaint village to a wonderful summer resort, the hill station of Mussoorie owes its credit to Captain Young, a British Army Officer, who developed it in 1827. He may not have been aware of the fact that in the years to come the place will become an unrivalled tourist paradise.

Famously known as the 'Queen of Hills', this fairyland destination with its verdant hills and snow covered mountain peaks is always flocked by tourists. The city boasts of numerous tourist attractions and also acts as the gateway to the much known holy Hindu shrines of Gangotri and Yamunotri. And if you are stuck in the extreme summer heat of the plains then Mussoorie is just where you need to go. The place comes to life with the onset of summer season when tourists from all over the country start to gather in this pleasant heaven.

Major Tourist Attractions in Mussoorie
The hill station of Mussoorie in Uttaranchal has a number of tourist attractions in store for you. The hill station has wonderful vantagepoints, falls, lakes and gardens. Given below are some of the most visited tourist attractions in Mussoorie.

Gunhill
The second highest mountain peak in Mussoorie, Gun Hill affords a panoramic view of the surrounding valley and the snow covered Himalayan peaks. It is said that during British rule, a gun placed on the hill was used to be fired to alert people. Since the time, the place came to be known as Gun Hill. Aninteresting way to reach the place is via the ropeway.

Kempty Falls
Situated just 15 km from Mussoorie on the way to Yamunotri, the beautiful waterfall is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mussoorie. Numerous tourists can be seen gathered and having a bath below the cool water of the falls, especially during the summers. The surrounding areas make a good picnic spot.

Mussoorie Lake
The shimmering waters of the Mussoorie lake and the surrounding areas make a good picnic spot. Located just 6 km from the city on the Mussoorie-Dehradun Road, the lake offers row boat and pedal boat facility.

Municipal Gardens
The lush Municipal gardens consists of numerous variety of flowering plants and trees. The place is an excellent spot for relaxation and a gentle walk on the green grass. The garden is situated at a distance of just 4 km from the city centre and can be accessed by cycle rickshaws or hired taxis.

Popular Getaways from Mussoorie
During your trip to Mussoorie, you have a wonderful opportunity to explore some worth-exploring getaway options. Dehradun, Rishikesh and Haridwar are famous getaways from Mussoorie in the state of Uttaranchal.

Dehradun
Situated 35 km from Mussoorie, Dehradun is a charming place nestled amidst thickly forested valleys, more famous for its tourist attractions and educational institutes. The place served as an important getaway for the British during the raj era and presently serves as the base of the IMA (Indian Military Academy). Tourist attractions in Dehradun include Dak Pathar, Forest Research Institute, Rajaji National Park, Robbers Cave and Tapkeshwar Temple.

Rishikesh
One of the holiest Hindu pilgrimages, Rishikesh is situated on the banks of river Ganges, just 44 km from Mussoorie. Besides being an important pilgrimage, Rishikesh offers exciting opportunities for water and adventure sports. The place also serves as the starting point for the holy 'chardham' pilgrimage of Yamunotri, Gangotri, Badrinath and Kedarnath.

Haridwar
Haridwar or the gates of heaven is a holy Hindu pilgrimage and a dip here in the holy waters of river Ganges is believed to lead one to salvation. Major attractions at Haridwar include Har ki Pauri, Chandi Devi temple, Mansa Devi temple, Sati Kund, Bhimgoda Tank and Piran Kaliar.

Popular Shopping Centres in Mussoorie
Shopping in Mussoorie can be a unique experience with a lot of unique stuff available for grab that you may not find elsewhere. Must buys on a shopper's list include wooden showpiece, exotic Tibetan prayer wheels, hand made woolen garments and objects crafted out of oak wood. The major shopping promenades in Mussoorie include the bazaars of library and landour. The mall is lined with umpteen small and large shops.

Eating Out in Mussoorie
Mussoorie boasts of a number of hotels and restaurants which serve cuisine from all parts of the world. Yet, you should not miss out on some sumptuous Tibetan and north Indian food that is sure to make you lick fingers. Momo's Cafe is famous for its fried mutton momo's while the Rice Bowl, situated on The Mall is known for sumptuous 'thukpas' and 'khoutom' served amidst a charming ambiance.

How to Reach Mussoorie
By Air: Jolly grant airport is the most convenient air connection, situated just 24 km from Dehradun. Taxis are available for hire just outside the airport while state transport corporation buses also ply regularly from the front of the airport gate to Mussoorie. Air Deccan flies daily between Delhi and Jolly Grant.

By Rail: Dehradun is the nearest railhead connected with all the major Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Lucknow, Amritsar, Kathgodam etc. Major trains between Delhi and Dehradun are the Mussoorie Exp and Dehradun Exp. For online reservation, visit the travel portal of http://www.travelchacha.com.

By Road: Road journey is probably the most interesting way to reach the place with plenty of natural beauty and picturesque views for company through the entire route. Direct buses run by state transport corporation connects Mussoorie with all the major neighbouring cities. Buses can be boarded from four locations around Mussoorie, the Library Bus Stand, Masonic Bus Stand, Tehri Bus Stand and Kempty Bus Stand.

Local Transport: Local buses can be boarded from Masonic Bus Stand and the seasonal bus stand near Kempty falls, operational between May and October. Taxis can also be hired for sightseeing from the taxi stand at Rs. 6.50/Km. The Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam operates conducted tours starting from the bus stand near Kempty falls for all the major attractions around the city. Bookings for the same can be made from the tourist office near ropeway or the booking counter near the library bus stand.

Distance from Mussoorie to Major Cities
Dehradun : 35 Km
New Delhi : 200 Km
Nainital : 355 Km
Barkot : 89 Km

Hanuman Chatti : 129 Km

Haridwar : 54 Km