Ajmer Sharif (Rajasthan)

The city of Ajmer has been witness to numerous vicissitudes throughout its history spanning 1400 years. From Shah Jehan proclaiming himself the Emperor of India here and Sir Thomas Roe having his audience with Mughal emperor Jehangir to being the site of the furious battle between Aurangzeb and Dara Shikoh, Ajmer has seen it all. The city occupies a position at the foot of a 800-feet-high mountain, inviting both tourists and pilgrims from across the globe. The biggest draw for visitors here is of course the Dargah of Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. Ajmer has a number of other attractions that give you an insight into the fascinating history of India.



Ajmer Fast Facts
State : Rajasthan
Area : 241.58 sq km
Population : 5 lacs (2001)
Languages : Hindi, Urdu, Sindhi, English & Rajasthani
Best Time to Visit : October to March
STD Code : 0145



Ajmer Tourist Attractions
The city of Ajmer has a lot of history and numerous legends to boast. There are a number of historic sites for you to see. The biggest attraction, however, is the Dargah of Sufi Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti.

Taragarh Fort
Located at a distance of 3 km from the city, the fort sits on a hilltop. The fort was constructed by Ajaipal Chauhan, the founder of the city. A steep climb takes you to the top from where you can feast your eyes on wonderful panoramic views of the city.


Dargah of Gharib Nawaz
The Dargah Sharif is the mausoleum of sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. The shrine is frequented both by Hindus and Muslims and the sight, particularly during the Urs Festival captures one's imagination.

Ana Sagar Lake
A major attraction for both tourists and pilgrims, the Ana Sagar Lake was founded by Anaji between 1135 and 1150 AD. The lake was further prettified by the Mughal emperors as it caught their eye. The Daulat Bagh gardens, close to the lake, was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jehan.

Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra
Considered to be the first significant Islamic structure to be erected in India, the monument has many legends revolving around it. Though the structure has fallen upon bad times, it has seven arched walls with Islamic calligraphy works on them.



Mayo College
Built back in the 1873 AD, this college is still being considered to be one of the finest public schools in the country. At the time it was built, it was meant for Indian princes and wards of the colonial rulers.

Ajmer Air/Rail/Road Links
The nearest airport from Ajmer is the Sanganer Airport of Jaipur (138 km). The airport operates regular flights connecting to important Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Aurangabad and Ahmedabad. The railhead at Ajmer has frequent trains running to the key destinations of the country. By road, Ajmer can be accessed from Agra (370 km), Delhi (444 km), Bharatpur (312 km), Bikaner (234 km), Chittaurgarh (182 km), Jaipur (138 km), Jaisalmer (458 km), Jodhpur (205 km), Kota (178 km), Mount Abu (371 km) and Udaipur (269 km).

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Zanskar (Jammu & Kashmir)

The rugged valley of Zanskar is the biggest draw for adventurers in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. The trip to the valley can be arduous but the rewards that await there are extreme. The three-armed valley occupies a position between the great massifs of the Himalayas and the doughty ranges of the Zanskar. The picturesque valley remains skirted by soaring mountains and deep gorges. The people that inhabit the valley are mainly Buddhists. So apart from having some epic adventure experience, you can also meet with the Buddhist populace that resides in this beautifully unsmooth area.



Zanskar Fast Facts
States : Jammu & Kashmir
Area : 5,000 sq km
Population : 10,000
Languages : Kashmiri, Tibetan and a variant of Ladakhi
Best Time to Visit : June to September

Zanskar Tourist Attractions
A trip to the Zanskar region, one the one hand, gratifies your thirst for some high-adrenaline adventure. On the other, it lets you observe some of the most interesting cultures and traditions that have impregnated the region from one point to the other.

Karsha
At Karsha, perched at an altitude of 3,610 m, you come across with a people that are known for their ancient traditions and cultures. Besides, you can also visit the Gelugpa Monastery, which has the distinction of being the largest in the Zanskar region. From upon the roof of the monastery, you can have stunning views of the Himalayas and the Zanskar Valley.



Tibetan-Buddhist Centres
There are numerous Tibetan-Buddhist centres in the Zanskar Valley. These centres are a must-see for all who wish to observe the age-old traditions and wish to soak up the spiritual charm before heading back home.

Mulbek
Advancing from Leh to Zanskar, you come across with a place called Mulbek. The spot has an old-worldly charm revolving around it. A huge sculpture of Buddha, which stands on a rock, is a major attraction for tourists here.

Panikhar
Another site that you get to visit en route to Zanskar is Panikhar. The place in question lies close to the Suru Valley. The Suru Pass, lying between Panikhar and Sankoo, is from where Zorawar Singh and his army entered Ladakh in the year 1832, on their way to taking possession of Tibet.

Penzella Pass
Lying at an altitude of 4,200 m, the pass separates the Zanskar region from the Suru Valley. The camping grounds on the either side of the pass, stunning views from the top and two fresh water springs are major sights for the visitors. The pass can be accessed only between May and September as during the rest of the year heavy snowfall makes it unreachable.



Air/ Rail/ Road Links
One can access the Zanskar region only through the Kargil-Padum Road (A stretch of 240 km). The first 90 km of this road is paved. This road-route remains open between the months of July and November which is also the ideal time to enjoy trekking. Tourists can avail of a thrice weekly bus service from Kargil. Heavy snowfall makes the area of Zanskar inaccessible for the remaining part of the year.

Bikaner (Rajasthan)

An exotic desert city, Bikaner completes the desert trio together with Jodhpur and Jaisalmer. The history of the city dates back to the 15th century and the medieval charm of the place still lingers on. Apart from offering to see many worth seeing forts and palaces, Bikaner also has interesting excursions awaiting the visitors; like the ones to the Camel Breeding Farm and the Deshnok's Karni Mata Temple. You can also participate in the Camel Festival (held around January every year) during your trip to the city. And lastly, you'll always have opportunities to explore the handicrafts of the region in its colourful marketplaces.

Bikaner Fast Facts
State : Rajasthan
Area : 38.10 sq km
Population : 529,007 (2001)
Languages : Hindi, English & Rajasthani
Best Time to visit : October to April
STD Code : 0151



Bikaner Tourist Attractions
The historical city of Bikaner offers you attractions that date far back to the 14th century. There are forts and palaces that stand for the chivalrous past of the city. Besides, there are some that will keep you coming back here for more.

Junagarh Fort
This rugged fort has the distinction of never being conquered. Built by Raja Rai Singh in 1593 AD, the palace complex comprises numerous exquisite palaces. One characteristic feature of the fort is that it is not built on a hilltop; it stands on the plains unlike other forts of the state.

Lalgarh Palace
The palace was designed by the renowned British architect Sir Swinton Jacob for Maharaja Ganga Singh. The style of the palace, built between 1902 and 1926, is a wonderful mix of the Rajput and the European styles of architecture.

Jain Temples : Bhandeshwar & Sandeshwar
One of the biggest draws for visitors to Bikaner, the Jain temples belong to the 14th century. The temples are positioned on the outskirts of the city and are frequented for their fine mirror work and gold leaf paintings.



Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum
The museum is a favourite of art connoisseurs. Here, you can have a look at a wide range of ancient potteries. Besides, the museum exhibits interesting items like carpets, miniature paintings, armoury and coins.

Camel Breeding Farm
One of its kind in the whole Asia, the breeding farm is a big lure for tourists. Apart from sipping a cup of camel milk, visitors can also indulge in exciting camel rides at the farm.

Bikaner Air/ Rail/ Road Links
Jodhpur Airport (closest) and the Jaipur Airport provide good air connectivity to the city of Bikaner. The rail network of the city connects it with places like Delhi, Kolkata, Jaipur and Allahabad. Regular deluxe and air-conditioned buses of the Rajasthan Roadways run between Bikaner and Delhi. From Jaipur, Bikaner is an 8-9 hours journey by road.

Bikaner Hotels
Laxmi Niwas Palace (5 Star)
Bhanwar Niwas Palace (Heritage)
Lalgarh Palace (Heritage)
Basant Vihar (3 Star)
Maan Bilas (2 Star)

Vishakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh)

The headquarters of the Eastern Naval Command of the Indian Navy, Vishakhapatnam glitters like a jewel on the eastern coast of the Indian peninsula. The city has beautiful beaches, heart-stirring valleys, dense jungles and ancient Buddhist sites, with three majestic hill ranges – the Kailasa Hill, the Porupalam Hill and the Yarada Hill – forming a stunning backdrop to it all. To add to the joy of travellers all the more, Vishakhapatnam has a salubrious climate. Once you are here, you’ll truly find yourself melting into the painting that is Vishakhapatnam.

Vishakhapatnam Fast Facts
State : Andhra Pradesh
Area : 11,161 sq km Population : 1,498,900 (2001)
Languages : Hindi, English & Telegu
Best time to Visit : October to March
STD Code : 0891




Vishakhapatnam Tourist Attractions
There’s a lot to keep visitors busy while in Vishakhapatnam. From some of the most virgin beaches to wonderful parks and historical museums, the city offers it all and a lot more.

Indira Gandhi Zoological Park
The zoological park is a big attraction for visitors to Vishakhapatnam. The park remains sort of sandwiched between the high ranges of the Eastern Ghats. It has the Bay of Bengal on its east. The park covers 625 acres and is home to around 80 different species of animals and birds.

Ramakrishna Beach
A lovely beach for tourists to explore, the Ramakrishna Beach is located on the East Coast. Apart from the quiet and serene environs, the beach also houses a Kali Temple.

Rishikonda Beach
The beach lies at 8 km from Vishakhapatnam and is a must-visit for all. You can soak up the exotic panorama and laze around on the golden sands. Also visit the Vishakha Museum which lies close by.

Dolphin’s Nose
It is one of the most striking attractions in Vishakhapatnam. A rocky promontory, measuring 174 m in height and at 358 m above sea level. A lighthouse located here is an added attraction for tourists.


VUDA Park
Located on the beachfront, the park spreads over an area of 55 acres, out of which 37 acres is covered with beautifully landscaped lawns. The park offers amenities like boating club, multi gym, musical fountains, yoga centre and much more.

Vishakhapatnam Air/Rail/Road Links
By air route, Vishakhapatnam is accessible from places like Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, New Delhi and Bhubaneshwar. Flights of Indian Airlines fly regularly between Vishakhapatnam and Hyderabad and five times a week to Chennai, New Delhi and Kolkata. Vishakhapatnam lies on the Chennai-Kolkata railway line and thus is a major railway junction, connecting to the major cities of New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata and Hyderabad. Tourists can avail of regular bus services linking Hyderabad with Hyderabad, Vijaywada, Bhubaneshwar, Chennai and Tirupati.

Vishakhapatnam Hotels
Welcomegroup Grand Bay Sheraton (5 Star)
The Park Vishakhapatnam (5 Star)
Taj Residency (4 Star)
Anant Hotel (3 Star)
Comfort Inn Vishakhapatnam (3 Star)