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)

Mcleodganj (Himachal Pradesh)

Mcleodganj
The old yet famous town of Mcleodganj is frequented for two reasons. Firstly for being the abode of the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso. Secondly for the headquarters of the Tibetan Government in Exile which is housed here. The town's location in the exotic Kangra Valley imparts much charm to it. Tourists arrive here in search of spiritual peace. Besides, the Tibetan Medical and Astrology Institute offers the opportunity to discover the theory behind Tibetan astrology and the natural healing therapies that it puts forth. The obvious Tibetan culture from one point of Mcleodganj to the other makes it known as the 'Little Lhasa'.

Mcleodganj Fast Facts
State : Himachal Pradesh
Area :
Population :
Languages : Pahari (Local dialect) & Hindi
Best time to Visit : May to June & September to November
STD Code :

Mcleodganj Tourist Attractions
As you undertake a journey through the town of Mcleodganj, you come across with a number of sights and sounds that can prove to be some of the finest experiences of your life. Plan your stay in the town itself to soak up the wonderful sights.


Namgyalma Stupa
The stupa stands in dedication of Tibetans who laid down their lives in their attempt to free Tibet. The statue of Sakyamuni Buddhi, housed in the stupa, invites pilgrims and tourists from across the globe. Numerous prayer wheels can be seen surrounding the stupa.

Bhagsunag
A sunny and scenic walk from Mcleodganj leads you to the ancient temple at Bhagsunag (2 km). The waterfalls close to the temple are also a major draw for tourists arriving here.


Dharamkot
Yet another attraction for tourists is Dharamkot. A wonderful picnic spot, the place lies within walking distance from Mcleodganj. From here, you can also have stunning views of the picturesque Kangra Valley.

Triund
Located at a distance of 9 km from Mcleodganj, Triund is a must-visit for all. Apart from being a nice picnic spot, the place also offers exciting options of trekking.

Kangra
For sightseers, Kangra can be one of the finest options here. Situated at 18 km from the town, it offers panoramic views of the Kangra Valley. Also feast your eyes upon the sight of ancient temples, forts and monasteries that the place overlooks.

Mcleodganj Air/Rail/Road Links
Just at a distance of 15 km from Mcleodganj lies the Gaggal Airport. After arriving at the airport, you can hire auto-rickshaws or taxis to get to the town. Pathankot is the closest broad-gauge railhead, connecting to the important destinations of the country. The State Transport Corporation offers regular services of deluxe and semi-deluxe buses connecting to different parts of the state and outside.

Hampi (Karnataka)

The telling ruins of Hampi are a big draw for visitors to southern India. Located at a distance of 353 from Bangalore, the town breathes a lot of history narrating the past of the mighty Vijayanagar Kingdom. The carved pillars, monolithic sculptures and monuments stand for the brilliant craftsmanship of the medieval era. Apart from that, from Hampi you can easily visit the nearby historical sites of Hassan, Belur and Halebid, known for impressive Hoysala temples.



Hampi Fast Facts
State : Karnataka
Area : 26 sq km
Population :146,000 (Hospet-Hampi)
Languages : Hindi, English & Kannada
Best Time to Visit : October to March
STD Code : 08394


Hampi Tourist Attractions
The town of Hampi offers a lot for those who wish to gain an insight into the history of the Vijayanagar Kingdom. The medieval temples of Hampi have also been included in the list of World Heritage Sites.

Virupaksha Temple
The temple stands in dedication of Virupaksha, a manifestation of Lord Vishnu. It occupies a position towards the western borders of the city. The Hemakuta Hill which overlooks the temple offers to see Jain temples and a monolithic structure of Narasimha.


Vithala Temple
The temple complex is a major draw for visitors to Hampi. The remnants of the temple complex have been included in the list of World Heritage Sites. Apart from beautiful sculptors and stone carved chariot, the temple has 56 musical pillars which emanate tunes when tapped.

Hazara Rama Temple
The history of the temple dates back to the early 15th century. The temple presents elaborately carved basalt pillars that bear incarnations of Lord Vishnu. Also there are sculptures depicting numerous scenes from the Hindu epic Ramayana.

King's Balance
During festivities, the kings were weighed here against grains and jewels. Later, riches were distributed among the poor and the needy.

Queen's Bath
The royal bath is positioned to the south of the Hazara Rama Temple. The building is square in shape and has wonderfully embellished interiors while the exteriors are plain.

Hampi Air/Rail/Road Links
The town of Hampi has the closest airport at Bellary, 74 km away. Hospet, which is 13 km from here, is the nearest railhead, well connected with places like Bangalore, Bellary, Gadag, Bijapur and Hubli-Dharwar. Regular buses ply between Hospet and Hampi. Hospet lies at a distance of 350 km from Bangalore, the capital city of the state of Karnataka.

Cities/ Hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh

Summer sun is beating down and temperature is soaring up. In Delhi, it is almost 40 degrees these days and that too in mid April. People are flocking in large number to hill stations in northern India, northeast and southern India. Himachal Pradesh is one of the most visited states during summers in India. The state has some of the finest hill stations like Manali, Shimla, Kufri and Dharamshala.

Wonderfull strewn with a number of colonial relics and Buddhist sites, Himachal Pradesh is one of the finest summer refuges both for Indians and foreign nationals. It was on the 25thof January in 1971 that Himachal Pradesh gained the status of a fully fledged state. Picturesque hill stations, pleasurable environs, cultural charm and some of the most friendliest of people make Himachal Pradesh an inescapable tourist destination. A variety of sights, sounds and smells await you here.

Kufri
Lying within easily accessible distance from Shimla, Kufri (2,501 m) is a never-to-be-missed spot for visitors to Shimla. In fact, Kufri has gained so much prominence that getting back from Shimla without visiting Kufri can be almost blasphemous. Read More

Mcleodganj
The old yet famous town of Mcleodganj is frequented for two reasons. Firstly for being the abode of the 14thDalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso. Secondly for the headquarters of the Tibetan Government in Exile which is housed here. Read More

Manali
Hot water springs, waterfalls, places of worship and abundant options of pleasant walks are but a hint of Manali. A much travelled hill station of northern India, it occupies a position at the top end of the Kullu Valley. Read More

Dharamshala
Discovered and developed in the 17thcentury by the British, Dharamshala is a major abiding centre for the Tibetans and the Buddhist community. The Tibetans took refuge here in 1959 when the annexation of Tibet by China ocurred. Read More

Chail
Perched at an elevation of 2,250 m, Chail has the distinction of having the world's highest cricket pitch and a polo ground. The quiet and quixotic hill town lies at a distance of 43 km from Shimla, the capital of the state of Himachal Pradesh. Read More

Shimla
Shimla, nestled in the Himalayan foothills, is a land of snow-crested peaks, speeding waterfalls and dense deodar forests. Add to it the colonial charm that dates back to the British Raj. Read More

Chail (Himachal Pradesh)

Perched at an elevation of 2,250 m, Chail has the distinction of having the world's highest cricket pitch and a polo ground. The quiet and quixotic hill town lies at a distance of 43 km from Shimla, the capital of the state of Himachal Pradesh. Picturesque pine and deodar forests surround the town from all sides. A national park is positioned close by and above all Chail is a hiker's paradise.

Chail Fast Facts
State : Himachal Pradesh
Population : 7,726 (2001)
Languages : Hindi, English & Himachali
Best time to Visit : May to July & September to November
STD Code : 01792

Chail Tourist Attractions
For a visitor, Chail offers numerous options of sightseeing, from wildlife to places of worship. Spending a couple of days amidst the heart-stirring beauty of Chail can keep you coming back here over and again.

Chail Sanctuary
The Chail sanctuary, which is a regular haunt of tourists and holidaymakers, covers an area of 10,854.36 hectares. The vegetation of the sanctuary consists of oak forests, deodar forests and grasslands. Major wildlife species that can be spotted here include goral, red deer, Himalayan black bear, flying squirrel etc.

Cricket Ground
One of the biggest draws for visitors to Chail is the most-elevated cricket ground, at a height of 2,144 m. Massive trees of deodar surround the ground from all sides. It was established back in 1893.

Maharaja's Palace
The palace, known as the Rajgarh Palace, was constructed in the year 1891. The palace comprises beautiful log huts and cottages – a real treat for your eyes. Besides, the dense forests impart irresistible charm to the place, inviting a good number of sightseers.

Sidh Baba Ka Mandir
The temple site something interesting attached to its construction. Maharaja Bhupinder Singh's palace was to be built here. However, a saint appeared in his dream and told that it was the place where he had spent days meditating. Consequently, the palace site was shifted and a temple was constructed here.

Kandaghat
At a distance of 20 km from Chail, Kandghat is a must-see for tourists. The place has attractions including the Chail View Palace, Shiva Temples, Baba Thadda Mulla and Karol Ranges which is frequented for its historical Krishna Temple and a cave.

Chail Air/Rail/Road Links
Chail is 63 km from Jubbar Hati Airport, the closest from the town. The airport has connecting flights to Delhi and Chandigarh, the capital of Punjab and Haryana. Those who arrive by rail can first reach either Kalka (86 km) or Chandigarh, the latter being a more convenient option. Further, one can take cabs or buses to get to Chail.

Chail Hotels
Hotel Palace (Heritage)
Hotel Monaal Hotel Grand Sunset
Rashi Resorts
Tarika Jungle Retreat

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary (Rajasthan)

Those who are on the lookout for a colourful and exotic birding paradise in India need to plan a trip straight to the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, one of its kind for being developed by a maharaja rather than being a hunting preserve of a royal Indian family. Comprising marshes, scrubland and grassland, the sanctuary has been a regular haunt of travellers, researchers, naturalists and ornithologists, not only from India but from all over the world. The sanctuary, also known as the Keoladeo Ghana National Park, acquired the status of a national park on March 10, 1982.

Bharatpur Sanctuary Fast Facts
State : Rajasthan
Area : 29 sq km
Famous Wildlife Species : Migratory birds from Siberia and Central Asia
Best Time to Visit : August to November/ October to February
Entry Fee : Rs 25 (Indians)/ Rs 200 (Foreigners)

Wildlife Attractions in Bharatpur Sanctuary
The area of 29 sq km is never to be underestimated when it comes to visiting the bird sanctuary of Bharatpur. There are more than 300 avian species that call the park home. Also popular as the Keoladeo Ghana National Park, the sanctuary presents two different pictures to bird fanciers. One, when it is filled with the twitters and chirrups of a variety of domestic birds between August and November. The other being the grand display of migratory birds during winters. It's the time when avian species travel to the sanctuary from as far as Siberia and countries of Central Asia. Species that tourists can spot here include cranes, pelicans, geese, ducks, eagles, hawks, shanks, stints, wagtails, warblers, wheatears, pipits, flycatchers, buntings, larks etc. A number of others bird species is there to be found, photographed and remembered. And that is not all, as there are a few animal species to be spotted in the sanctuary as well. These include chital, wild boar, nilgai, sambar, deer etc.

Other Attractions in Bharatpur

Bharatpur Govt. Museum
Visitors can head straight to this government museum after they have enjoyed the wild sights and sounds inside the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. The museum gives a significant insight into the royal opulence of the city.

Bharatpur Palace
Very close to the museum lies the Bharatpur Palace, another interesting sight to behold. The palatial building showcases a wonderful blend of the Rajput and Mughal architectural styles.

Lohargarh Fort
The rugged structure of this medieval fort is a must-see for travellers. It is interesting to note that the fort maintained its status of being unconquered even after several attacks by the British.

Bharatpur Sanctuary Travel (Air/Rail/Road) Information
The Kheria Airport of Agra, 56 km away, serves as the nearest airport from Bharatpur. Reaching Bharatpur by rail is also quite a convenient option, as the Bharatpur Railway Station is just 6 km from the sanctuary. There are frequent trains connecting Bharatpur with important destinations including Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur and Agra. By road too, Bharatpur is easily accessible from places like Delhi (176 km/5 hours), Agra (56 km/5 hours) and Jaipur (176 km/6 hours ).

Jungle Resorts/ Lodges in Bharatpur
During your tour to bird sanctuary of Bharatpur, you can find a number of wildlife lodges where you can have a wonderful time staying. Some popular lodges at the sanctuary are as follows.

Bharatpur Forest Lodge
Laxmi Vilas Palace
Chandra Mahal Haveli
Birder’s Inn