India
Best Cities to Visit in India
This list of the best cities in India is not exhaustive – it covers a number of cities, from the deteriorating masterpieces of Kolkata to the marble mausoleums of Agra. We also cover Pushkar, a city of lakes and ghats, and Jaipur, a beautiful city dotted with lakes and ghats.
Kolkata is a decaying masterpiece
One of the best places to see in Kolkata is the State Archaeological Gallery, founded in 1962. Here you can view antiques from the Paleolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic periods. It is a must-see for anyone who appreciates the arts.
The city is packed with a wide variety of attractions and sites. Whether you’re interested in British architecture or ancient traditions, you’ll find plenty of them in the sprawling metropolis of Kolkata. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing holiday, a cultural adventure, or an exotic adventure, this city has it all.
The city was founded in 1690 and served as the British imperial capital until 1911. Even though the city has undergone a transformation since then, it still retains much of its charm. Hundreds of crumbling buildings are a testament to its past as the capital of the British Empire. They provide a unique insight into the subcontinental culture and history.
A beautiful park situated in the city centre is a must-see in Kolkata. Whether it’s a romantic evening with your significant other, or an afternoon picnic with the family, a visit to this park is sure to delight your senses. It’s not only the city’s parks that offer scenic views of the city. You can also visit its Zoo, which is home to several species of birds, including Macaws, Swinhoe’s Pheasant, and Lady Amherst’s Pheasants.
Agra is a marble mausoleum
The Taj Mahal, an enormous marble mausoleum complex in Agra, India, is one of the world’s most famous sights. The Taj Mahal was commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and built over a period of 20 years. It is a superb example of Mughal architecture, combining Islamic, Persian and Indian influences. Its shimmering white marble makes it one of the world’s most iconic structures. This breathtaking monument is an enduring symbol of India’s rich history.
The Taj Mahal is the national symbol of India. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it attracts millions of tourists every year. However, the huge number of visitors has the potential to negatively impact the mausoleum’s physical fabric. To ensure the Taj Mahal’s future, the city of Agra has implemented measures that help protect its natural beauty. The city’s government has prohibited new industrial development, and only non-polluting vehicles are allowed near the mausoleum.
The Taj Mahal is surrounded by a walled garden. Visitors enter the mausoleum through a large gate. Inside, the mausoleum is topped with four towers and is decorated with swirling geometric designs. The white marble mausoleum stands in a vast compound of gardens and lawns. During the day, the Taj Mahal is dotted with curly-horned deer.
Jaipur is a city of lakes
Despite the fact that Jaipur is a city filled with monuments and historical sites, the city itself is not known for its lakes. There are 6 lakes in the city, but they are largely overlooked, and it’s easy to see why. The largest is Sambhar Lake, which is shaped like an ellipse and surrounded by the Aravalli Mountains. It also features a famous temple, the Shakamhari Devi, on its shores. This lake is also a major producer of salt, accounting for 9 percent of the salt produced in India.
Jaipur is home to the Albert Hall Museum, Birla Auditorium, City Palace, and Amer Fort, all of which are major tourist attractions. There are also several World Heritage sites in the city, including the Govind Dev Ji Temple and the Garh Ganesh Temple. Visitors should also be sure to visit the Sanghiji Jain temple and Kanak Vrindavan park.
The city is home to some of the country’s largest lakes, and the surrounding forests are home to a wide variety of species. The Chandlai lake, for example, is 140 years old and is a popular tourist attraction. It is also a prime location for photography, as the lake is surrounded by lush vegetation. Aside from the lakes, the city is also home to the remnants of an historic fort, which offer a unique insight into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Pushkar is a town of ghats
Pushkar is a holy town that is often visited by pilgrims. It is also known for its annual hot air balloon festival and camel fair. When visiting Pushkar, be sure to dress appropriately. Men should wear long trousers and women should cover their legs and shoulders. It’s advisable to bring extra pairs of socks and several layers of clothing. It is important to be aware of pigeon and dog poo on the ghats.
Pushkar is the home of the Brahma Temple, one of the three original Hindu gods. The temple has a tall red spire and is surrounded by colorful columns. Visitors are not permitted to take photographs inside the temple. Visitors are also required to store their shoes in rented lockers.
Another important attraction in Pushkar is the Pushkar Lake. This lake is similar to Mansarovar Lake in Tibet and has become a religious center for Hindus. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma dropped a lotus into the valley, forming the lake. The Pushkar ghats are 52 in number and surround the lake. The lake is believed to have healing powers and people assemble at the lake on the Kartik Purnima festival every year.
Mumbai is a cosmopolitan city
Mumbai is India’s most populous city and one of the largest urban areas in the world. It was founded on the site of an ancient settlement. It took its name from the local goddess Mumba, a form of Parvati and the consort of the god Shiva. A temple dedicated to the goddess once stood in the southeastern part of the city. During the British colonial era, Mumbai was known as Bombay. This name was restored to official use in 1995, but the locals continued to use Mumbai.
The population of Mumbai is estimated at over 22 million. It is the largest city in India. In recent decades, the metropolitan area has experienced rapid growth, with a population density of over five million people per square kilometre. This growth is primarily due to migration from other parts of India in search of employment opportunities.
Mumbai is a multilingual city, but it also retains a distinctly regional character. Despite this, it has become India’s commercial and industrial center, with a large number of international and domestic business activities.
Hyderabad is a trading outpost
Hyderabad is a trading outpost in India with good connections to both the local and external economies. Its industrialization has been spurred by public investments and agricultural surpluses from coastal Andhra Pradesh. The city is poised to grow further in the future as it has access to markets in south-east Asia and western Asia.
In the early eighteenth century, Muslims began establishing a presence in Hyderabad. The city grew from a single village to a thriving trading center. The city is an important port, and is home to many Muslim, Hindu, and Sikh communities. In the 17th century, the city was home to the Bussy-Castelnau, a French trading outpost. The French were attracted by the thriving commercial center and wanted to seize the area as their own. The French, however, were unsuccessful and were driven out of the area.
The Telangana government is currently focusing on building a World Trade Centre (WTC) in the city. Its WTC will be a third in India, after the Bangalore WTC and Mumbai’s India INX. It is expected to cost up to Rs 300 crore.
Chennai is a stopover city
If you’re looking for a quick stopover in India, you should consider visiting the city of Chennai. It has an international airport, which is located close to the city center. From here, you can explore the city and nearby attractions. Getting from the airport to the city center is easy, and there are many public transportation options available.
This large city, formerly known as Madras, is situated on the east coast of India. The climate of Chennai is largely influenced by the NE monsoon, which brings about 65% of the city’s rains. This monsoon can also bring cyclones, and these storms may make their way through the city towards west Bengal, Bangladesh, or Myanmar. The rainy season for Chennai is from October to December.
The city’s history can be traced to 1688, making it the second-oldest municipal corporation in the world. In 2011, it expanded its jurisdiction to 426 square kilometres and has 200 wards. The city is governed by the mayor, Saidai Sa. Duraisamy, who is elected by the local population.
India
Best Beaches to Visit in India
If you are planning a trip to India, then you must check out some of its best beaches. Gokarna’s one-kilometer-long golden-white sand is punctuated with fifteen restaurants and a single hotel. The surf is decent but the water is dangerous. You may want to bring your kids here to swim and enjoy the sun.
Shankarpur beach
If you are looking for an escape from the hectic city life, Shankarpur beach is the perfect destination. It has sun-bathed beaches, lush greenery, and all the luxuries of a private beach. The area is dotted with sea resorts, hotels, tourist lodges, and other facilities.
Located in East Medinipur district of West Bengal, Shankarpur beach is an ideal place for relaxation and enjoyment. This beach is less crowded than other West Bengal beaches and has several picturesque beaches. You can rent a boat to explore the surrounding islands, or go for a swim in the ocean.
While Digha Beach is a popular destination for surfers and families, Shankarpur is a little less popular. The sun-kissed, pristine beach is lined with casuarina trees. This undiscovered beach is perfect for those seeking a break from the bustling city.
Shankarpur beach is located in the eastern part of the state. It is close to the popular coastal cities of Puri and Digha. Visitors who are looking for a remote beach in Bengal should visit Shankarpur, which is a relatively virgin beach. In addition to being a beautiful, relaxing spot, the beach is also ideal for swimming and bird watching.
Shankarpur is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest railway station is Digha, while it is possible to travel by bus. In addition, there are trains from Kolkata on some days of the week. The town has many restaurants that serve tasty sea food.
Corbyn’s Cove beach
If you are fond of scenic views and photography, Corbyn’s Cove beach is the ideal place to visit. It is accessible throughout the day and is ideal for sunrise or sunset. The nearby beach is also a great place for eating snacks and drinking coffee.
You can also visit the nearby Snake Island, which is famous for its large marine life. The area is home to many deadly snakes, so you will need to bring plenty of sunscreen lotion. Also, carry some cash with you as ATMs may not be available.
To reach Corbyn’s Cove beach, you must first reach Port Blair. You can take a bus or an auto rickshaw to the beach. There are also private taxis and motorcycles for hire. For a comfortable stay, you can book a room at Hornbill Nest Resort, which is located close to the beach.
While you are in Port Blair, you can also visit the other islands in the area. Besides Corbyn’s Cove, you can also explore Mount Harriet, the third highest mountain in Andaman and Nicobar islands. This national park is spread over 4.62 square km, and has many picturesque sights to see. The landscape also boasts the intricately carved havelis and ridges of the Aravali hills.
Corbyn’s Cove beach is located eight kilometers from Port Blair and is free to visit. The beach is dotted with coconut palms and turquoise waters. It is also popular for its water sports activities, including surfing. You can also go for a picnic on the beach.
Mandvi beach
Mandvi Beach is located near the city of Mundra. It offers great sands and warm water and is a popular tourist destination in the state. Mandvi Beach is also a popular place for water sports such as paragliding and water scooter rides. The beach is very clean and spacious. Visitors can also enjoy a speed boat ride and enjoy the windmills that line the shoreline.
Mandvi Beach is one of Gujarat’s most beautiful beaches, with many water sports to enjoy. This beach is also popular for its windmills, which are part of the project that built Asia’s first windmills. There are plenty of food stalls at Mandvi and the windmills are a beautiful sight to look at.
Mandvi was once an important port for the trade of goods between India and the Middle East. Its fishermen helped Vasco De Gama to get to Zanzibar. Today, fishermen from Mandvi manufacture fishing boats, which are capable of carrying 250 to 1000 tons of cargo.
The town of Mandvi is located on the Gujarat coastline and is popular for its pristine white sand. The beach is also home to flamingos, which often float above the water’s surface. The beach is also a good place to camp and enjoy the sunset.
Varkala beach
Varkala is an amazing beach destination where you can enjoy swimming and sunbathing. It is a sunbather’s paradise with pristine blue waters and many cafes and restaurants offering global cuisines and all kinds of music. Whether you are looking for a romantic atmosphere or want to explore India’s cultural heritage, Varkala has it all.
Varkala is home to many beaches, but not all of them are suitable for sunbathing. You’ll find many restaurants, spas, and yoga classes here. It is also a great place to take part in ayurvedic practices in a relaxing environment.
Another historic landmark that is near the beach is the Anjengo Fort, which was built by the English East India Company in the 17th century. This fort was once England’s entryway into India from the Malabar coast. The fort’s grounds are full of lush green lawns and a lighthouse.
Another popular destination is the Papanasham Beach, which is located 15 km south of Varkala. The cliff overlooking the beach has a fresh water spring that’s believed to cleanse your sins. The beach is open from 6AM to 6PM, and there’s no entrance fee.
If you don’t want to visit the beach itself, you can head to the nearby Kappil Lake. This lake is a peaceful and picturesque waterway. It’s a short drive away from Varkala and is a popular picnic spot. You’ll find a great view of the sunset and sunrise from here.
Pondicherry beach
A beautiful, quiet beach in the Indian state of Pondicherry is a popular destination among travellers. This beach is dotted with palm trees and pristine sea water. It is a popular choice for leisure travelers, photographers, and peace seekers. You can spend a day strolling around the beach or enjoy a spot of fishing. However, you must carry food with you, as there are limited options on the beach.
The town is also renowned for its Portuguese-style architecture and an old-school vibe. But despite its old-world charm, the beaches in Pondicherry are truly unique. Whether you are visiting for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Pondicherry is the perfect destination for your next getaway.
A typical Pondicherry beach is the 1.5-km-long Promenade Beach. It is a wonderful spot for strolling, jogging, or yoga. This stretch of sand is also well maintained and provides a great place to reconnect with nature. You’ll love its soft sands, which act like pillows for your tired feet. As a bonus, the view is also a nice comfort.
Paradise Beach is a beautiful white sand beach in Pondicherry. It offers the perfect balance between tranquility and action, and is popular with both locals and tourists. The beach is also well-maintained, with changing rooms and showers on the shore. There are a variety of water sports available here, including kayaking and fishing.
Dikha beach
One of the most beautiful beaches in India is Dikha beach, a stretch of sand and pristine blue water. It is located 15 km from Vizag and is popular among tourists. Visitors will love the cool atmosphere and calming surf here. The beach is also a great place to enjoy sunbathing and swimming. This beach is also home to an old Shiva temple.
About 18 kilometers from Digha is another popular beach called Tajpur. This crescent-shaped beach offers panoramic sea views. Visitors may also see red crabs playing hide-and-seek in the sand during the early morning hours. The area is well-connected to the rest of the country and can be reached by all forms of transportation.
The island has a population of about 10,000 people and is only 1.8 square miles in size. It is located in the state of Andhra Pradesh and is popular with locals for picnics. Visitors can also rent kayaks and surfboards. While it is not recommended for beginner surfers, those looking for an adventure can go kayaking or surfing on the island.
Dikha is a picturesque paradise for beach lovers. It is also home to the largest marine aquarium in Asia. Digha beach is an ideal place for a weekend trip and offers plenty of entertainment. There are local handicraft shops and restaurants along the shoreline. Paragliding is a fun activity for those who love adrenaline.
India
Best Time to Visit India
If you’re looking for the best time to visit India, you’ve come to the right place. The best months to visit India are March, November, and December. These months offer the most pleasant temperatures. You’ll find many festivals, markets, and events during these months, so you’re sure to have a great time.
March
March is an ideal time to visit India because it has a mild climate, which makes it ideal for walking and sightseeing. It is also the start of the trekking season in the Himalayas. The average temperature in Manali during March is 70 degrees F. During this month, you can also see the famous Holi Festival, which is celebrated all across India. This festival represents the victory of good over evil. March is also a great time to visit Delhi and the Golden Triangle. You’ll be able to enjoy the sites of the Golden Triangle and other places of interest without the heat or heavy fog.
During March, the number of tourists visiting the country is at its lowest, which makes it ideal for budget-conscious travelers. There are also massive discounts on hotels during this time. The temperatures will be pleasant, and you’ll have fewer people to contend with. Also, you’ll be able to enjoy major festivals and other cultural offerings.
The weather is pleasant in most parts of India during March, but it can be chilly at night. In the Northeast, the monsoon begins to taper off, making it a popular time for tourists. Goa is particularly crowded during Christmas, so you’ll need to plan your visit accordingly. The weather during this time is also ideal for sightseeing, as the crowds won’t be as bad as they are in November. You’ll also be able to see the spectacular Diwali Festival, which is a religious festival for Hindus, Jains and Sikhs.
Visiting India during this time is perfect for those looking to experience its varied landscapes and different weather patterns. This time of year is also a great time to visit the popular tourist destinations, such as Mumbai. Although these regions are known to be hot and humid, they’re not nearly as crowded during the cooler months.
October
October is a great time to travel across India. You can find mild temperatures across the country and you can easily visit popular tourist destinations. In areas such as Kashmir, where the monsoon hasn’t yet finished, the temperature will still be pleasant, even though the nights are still cold. You can even visit parts of the Himalayas in October, when the snow hasn’t yet started falling. Another plus: there will be less tourist traffic.
October is the best time to visit India if you want to experience its diverse landscapes. The climate is generally pleasant and dry, making it a great time to travel to the country. It’s important to note, however, that the country doesn’t have a consistent climate throughout the year. Depending on the region, the country can experience hot weather in the north and cold weather in the south.
October is also a great time to visit the Golden Triangle. This region of India is home to some of the world’s most spectacular sights, such as the Taj Mahal. This landmark is a popular tourist destination all year long, but October is the best time to visit to enjoy the most temperate weather. Temperatures in the Golden Triangle are typically around 22-32degC. Touring the Golden Triangle during this time is especially fun as the festival is a major highlight. Just make sure you avoid the May heatwave and June monsoon season.
While summer months are miserable for coastal regions, summer months are ideal for hill stations and Rajasthan. Monsoon season is also ideal for rejuvenation therapies, as the pores open up during the monsoon season, allowing the oils in the skin to penetrate the body fully. The monsoon season is also the perfect time for river cruising along the Ganges. However, keep in mind that summer months are also the wettest month in the country.
November
If you’re planning a holiday to India, November is a great time to go. Weather is warm and the humidity is low, making it a comfortable time to visit. It’s also the best time to check out the magnificent palaces of Delhi and Agra. You can also visit places like Gir forest in Gujarat and Jim Corbett national park in Nainital. Many places are less crowded during November, and you can enjoy the sunrise or sunset without the crowds.
During autumn, the monsoon season ends and temperatures increase in cities throughout the country. While temperatures are hotter in the heartland, occasional rains keep the countryside green and blooming. November is another time when the temperatures are at their highest, and the bustling streets of major cities are filled with traditional events and festivals. In the inland, temperatures can reach 40degC, so be careful of the midday heat.
The golden temple of Guru Nanak is another place to visit during November. This temple is famous for its yearly celebrations. The date varies each year, but it falls during the month. Amritsar is a must-visit place during November. The weather in India is ideal for sightseeing.
During the monsoon, rains prevent tourists from visiting the mangroves. However, the temperature is still pleasant enough to visit the Sunderbans. This pristine ecosystem in India is perfect for nature lovers. In November, you can also visit the Tagore Ashram, which is home to a museum and art gallery of the Nobel Laureate.
While the weather is pleasant, monsoon flooding can disrupt communications and cause widespread destruction. In the foothills of the Himalaya, landslides are common and can cut off entire valley systems for weeks. However, you should consider a few factors before you choose a date for your trip. The most ideal time to visit India is November to March, when temperatures are cool and sunny. It is also a good time to visit cities like Delhi and Agra. Central India is also at its best during this period.
December
December is one of the best times to visit India. The temperature is comfortable, and you can enjoy the natural beauty of the country. You can enjoy sightseeing and go for trekking and skiing. In December, you can also go on a mystical deodar forest tour and witness the beautiful snowfall. Also, you can attend the annual festival, the Hornbill Rock Festival, which brings together musicians from across the country.
Mid-December to early February are the wettest months in India, so you should avoid them if you plan to visit Delhi. In addition, the mornings can be very cold, and cities like Agra are covered in mist. While December is a pleasant time to visit India, it is important to consider the weather when planning your trip.
The winter months are perfect for wildlife spotting. While April and May are crowded and hot, October and November offer cooler temperatures. These months are also cheaper than December to February. There are suitable experiences during each month, and each month has its own benefits. If you are visiting India during these months, you can take advantage of great travel deals and get the most out of your time in the country. The climate is quite diverse in different parts of the country. It’s best to plan your trip based on your preferences.
The shoulder months of December and January are perfect for traveling to the Himalayas. The temperature in the Himalayas is moderate compared to the rest of the country. And there are few roadblocks. This season is also ideal for trekking in the Himalayas. However, bear in mind that you may have to deal with cold temperatures during the winter months, and hotels can close. You will also find that many trails become impassable.
February
Visiting India in February is a great way to experience its diverse weather conditions. Temperatures are relatively moderate and are usually between 75 and 52 degrees Celsius, making it the perfect time to see the Golden Triangle, Rajasthan, and Kerala. In the South, Bengal and Kerala experience the dry season in February. The best time to visit Kolkata is in December or January, when temperatures are more bearable.
While February is not the best time to visit Delhi or other metropolitan cities in India, the state of Sikkim is still worth exploring. This state is renowned for its spectacular waterfalls, enchanting mountains, and charming cultural festivals. A visit to Sikkim during February is especially a good idea if you want to experience the enchanting Losar festival.
In central India, the small town of Khajuraho is one of the most prominent heritage sites in India. The town is home to over 90 Jain and Hindu temples with intricate carvings and is listed on the UNESCO world heritage list. This place is a must-see for heritage-lovers.
While February is the end of the tourist high season in India, it is still a great time to visit the country’s national parks and other places. This is because the early rains have already ceased in the Northeast States, and the wildlife can be spotted more easily. In addition, Holi, the most colourful festival in India, is celebrated during March. The Hindus celebrate the beginning of spring by dousing one another with water. Moreover, Tibetan Buddhist monasteries hold masked dances during Losar, which often falls during February.
Although monsoon season can be unpleasant, it brings the natural world to life. The dry grasslands and forests become green and lush. Farmers and other people welcome this season with full productivity. During the monsoon rains, rivers and lakes fill up with water and waterfalls become stronger.
India
Best Islands to Visit in India
If you’re planning to take a holiday in India, you may be wondering which islands to visit. If so, there are a few places worth checking out. These include Diu Island, Havelock Island, St. Mary’s Island, and Rameswaram Island. All of these places are absolutely stunning and definitely worth a visit.
Diu Island
The best time to visit Diu is during the summer season. This period offers you the chance to enjoy the pristine beaches, visit the famous destinations, and take part in water sports. The temperatures are typically 31 degrees Celsius during this time. In addition, alcohol is served on the island, making it an ideal place for those who want to relax on the beach. Moreover, it is a relatively safe place to visit.
A short trip from Diu town is the fishing village of Vanakbara. The port is filled with colourful fishing boats. A visit to this port is recommended during the time when the fishing fleet returns. Also, do not miss a trip to the famous Gangeswar Temple, which is located 3km west of the town, just past Fudam village. The temple is home to five Shiva lingas and is accessible by road.
The Diu Island has a mild climate throughout the year. Until 1961, the island was a Portuguese colony. Later, it became a Union Territory in 1987. The island is also known for its pristine beaches. The most popular beach is Nagoa, but there are several others as well, including Ghogla, Jallandhar, Chakratirth, and Gomtimata. There are also adventure water sports available on Diu Island.
Ghoghla Beach is the most beautiful beach in Diu. It is a long stretch of sand, with very little trash compared to the beaches nearby. Ghoghla Beach is the largest beach, offering plenty of opportunities for water sports and swimming in nature. Another interesting attraction is the former Portuguese colony. For almost 240 years, the island was ruled by the Portuguese. The remains of the Portuguese community can be viewed in the St. Paul’s church, which was built in Gothic style. Its wall is adorned with wooden carvings.
Havelock Island
The stunning pristine beaches on Havelock Island are the perfect place to relax. The white sands and tall palm trees make this a popular tourist destination. But if you want to explore more of the island, you can also head to a few of the less-visited locations.
The island’s climate is comfortable all year round. The best time to visit is between November and May. The temperature is pleasant throughout these months, which is when most tourists visit. However, the island can be very crowded during December and January. During the monsoon season (mid-May to mid-September), it’s important to note that many of the island’s activities are not operating.
The island is also safe for solo female travelers. The locals are friendly and helpful, and the crime rate is low. There are no religious or political issues on the island, so you can feel secure and have a great time. You’ll be amazed at the beauty and peace of this serene island.
Whether you want to go for a relaxing beach holiday or to enjoy water sports, the island has something for everyone. Radhanagar Beach, or Beach Seven, is the most popular beach on Havelock. It has a breathtaking lighthouse and is the perfect spot for snorkeling.
St. Mary’s Island
Located on the Malpe coast, St. Mary’s Island is easily accessible by boat. Ferries operate between 9am and 5pm daily. Tickets are available at a price of INR 250-300. Alternatively, you can catch a bus or take a cab from Malpe town.
While you’re on St. Mary’s Island, make sure to take sunscreen and water with you. The island is 12km away from Udupi, which is close by and offers comfortable accommodations. The trip should last about two to three hours, depending on the weather.
Getting to St. Mary’s Island is easy, and you can catch a ferry from Malpe town to the island. The ferry service is available from 09:00 am to 6:30 pm every day, and can cost up to Rs300. There is a railway station and airport in nearby Udupi. The cost of a return ticket is about Rs300.
Located in the Karnataka state, St. Mary’s Island is a natural wonder. The islands are dotted with coconut trees and basaltic rock formations. It is a favorite with locals, but is largely unknown to the rest of the world.
If you’re looking for a peaceful and romantic getaway, St. Mary’s Island is definitely worth a visit. Just make sure to avoid the monsoon season!
Rameswaram Island
Rameshwaram is a holy and divine place with many things to see and do. It is also the home of a number of migratory water birds. Between October and January, these birds flock to the sanctuary. The island has several attractions for visitors, including the Ramanathapuram Bird Sanctuary.
Rameswaram Island is home to several ancient temples. The oldest temple is Nambu Nayaki Amman Temple, which is dedicated to the goddess Dakshina. Locals worship this goddess for health and prosperity. Nambu Nayaki, the Goddess of the south, is also revered here. Nearby temples include the Annai Indira Gandhi road bridge, Gandhamadhana Parvatham, and Agni Theerthamm.
Rameshwaram Island offers spectacular views of the Bay of Bengal and the Sri Lankan hillocks. The island is also home to the floating stones associated with the Ramayana. While on the island, you can enjoy the beautiful sunsets and sunrises.
Another important attraction is Adam’s Bridge, a debatable historic bridge that links Rameshwaram Island to Sri Lanka. This two-km long bridge was built over a network of limestone shoals between India and Sri Lanka. Many historians and archaeologists argue about the bridge’s historic significance, but it is a significant part of Rameshwaram tourism.
The southern tip of Rameshwaram Island is home to Dhanuskodi, a small town bordered by the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean. The Dhanuskodi region is also one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rameshwaram. Previously, this town was heavily populated, but was devastated by a storm in 1964. The island now has only 500 residents and is classified as a Ghost Town.
Majuli Island
The Majuli Island is the largest river island in the world, and it is also home to the Vaishnavite Hindu sect. The island was once the capital of the Kingdom of Chutia, and was shaped by frequent floods and earthquakes in the 17th and 18th centuries. Even today, the island has strong traditional values, and a sense of magic.
Majuli is easily accessible by car or ferry from Jorhat. There are also many resorts, homestays, and government-run hotels. These accommodations aren’t fancy, but they have basic amenities and are ideal for a relaxing holiday. Bamboo cottages are a great choice if you want an authentic feel.
There are twenty Vaishnava Satras spread across the island, some of which date back to the 15th century. The Satras are home to hundreds of monks who practice ancient rituals and arts. You can also explore the island’s homes and fields, and you can also see weaving. However, you should avoid visiting Majuli Island during the rainy season.
Majuli Island is an excellent place for birdwatchers. It is home to a wide variety of migratory and endemic birds. Majuli also has a rich spiritual history. In fact, it was the seat of neo-Vaishnavism for many years. The town has a well-connected public transport system, making it convenient for visitors.
Elephanta Caves
The Elephanta Caves is an important site for Hindu pilgrims. It was constructed about two thousand years ago. It’s located on an island with two hillocks separated by a narrow valley. It’s a culturally rich place that’s home to several temples and ruins from ancient times. It’s also one of the most popular places for trekking in India. The caves have been restored by the Indian government since the 1970s. The caves are constructed into the rock and feature intricate carvings that explain Hindu mythology.
The caves are on a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island is accessible by ferry from Mumbai’s Apollo Harbour. The caves are open to the public, and ferries depart every half-hour. The island is also home to a museum with artifacts from ancient times.
You can hire a guide to show you around the caves. You can also go self-guided. This is a more economical option than hiring a tourist guide. The Ministry of Tourism’s Official Audio Guide (AudioCompass) contains virtual tours of the country’s top attractions.
The ferry ride from Mumbai is only an hour long, and the first ferry leaves at 9:30am. During bad weather, the ferry service may stop for safety reasons. For this reason, the best time to visit the island is between October and March. In February, the island holds a festival that features regional music and dance programmes.
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