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Tourism on Maharashtra


During the colonial rule, the British developed many hill stations throughout India and in Maharashtra to escape heat during the summer months.[10]Most of these are located on the hills of the Sahyadri range of the Western ghats and close to the largest metropolitan areas in state, namely Mumbai and Pune.Chikhaldara and Toranmal are two places that are located on the Satpura range which runs east to west on the border between Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.Popular colonial era hill stations in the state include

Amboli
Chikhaldara -in satpur mountains
Igatpuri -On Main Mumbai -Bhusawal railway line
Jawhar
Karjat- On Main Mumbai -Pune railway line
Khandala -On Main Mumbai -Pune railway line
Lonavala -On Main Mumbai -Pune railway line
Mahabaleshwar -Summer capital of Bombay presidency during the British raj
Matheran – linked to the main Mumbai -Pune railway line with a narrow gauge mountain train.
Panchgani -Close neighbour of Mahabaleshwar with many boarding schools.
Panhala –
Toranmal
Lavasa is a very recently developed township and is under private control.

Maharashtra boasts of a large number of popular and revered religious venues that are heavily frequented by locals as well as out-of-state visitors.Some of the popular places are:

Vithoba temple, Pandharpur is the main center of worship for the Hindu deity Vithoba, believed to be a local form of god Krishna or Vishnu and his consort Rakhumai, There is also a small temple of Shri. Vitthal-Rukmini, which is as old as the main Vitthal-Rukmini Mandir, in Isbavi area of Pandharpur known as Wakhari Va Korti Devalayas and also known as Visava mandir.They are the most visited temples in Maharashtra. The Varkaris start marching from their homes to the temple of Pandharpur in groups called Dindi (procession) to reach on Aashadhi ekadashi and Kartiki ekadashi, all the Warkaris and the group called Dindi, first stop at Wakhari Va Korti Devalayas, Visava Mandir, Isbavi, Pandharpur. A dip in the holy river Chandrabhaga on whose banks Pandharpur resides, is believed to have the power to wash all sins. All the devotees are allowed to touch the feet of the idol of Vithoba.
Shegaon, resting place of Gajanan Maharaj, the late 19th/early 20th-century religious figure
Akkalkot, Temple /Matha dedicated to 19th century Swami Samarth.
Shirdi,temple of Sai Baba – a hugely revered late 19th/early 20th century with global following.
Tuljapur, Temple of Goddess Bhavani
Kolhapur, Temple of Goddess Mahalaxmi or Ambabai
Mumbai, Mahalakshmi temple in south Mumbai,
Mumbai, Haji Ali Dargah, a popular mosque built in the sea off the coast of Worli,
Mumbai, Mount Mary church in the suburb of Bandra
Pune, Osho International Meditation Resort. It attracts visitors from other parts of India and abroad.
Nanded, Hazur Sahib Nanded Gurudwara,the resting place of Sikh Guru Gobind Singh
The Statue of Ahimsa, a 108 ft idol of first Jain tirthankara Rishabhanatha carved in monolithic stone was consecrated at Mangi Tungi in February 2016, . It is recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records as the tallest Jain idol in the world.[11]It has become a major pilgrimage and tourist destination.

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Top 25 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Kerala-2019 (with Photos & Tips)


Kerala , known as Gods Own Country has some of the best tourist destinations in India for any kind of holiday. It is the land of coconuts, backwaters, elephants and the land of rich cultures and traditions, and has been one of the most sought after places by travelers from all around the world and the Best places to visit in kerala is a long list of places that exudes variety and rich heritage.

It is without doubt that Kerala is one of the most beautiful places on earth and that’s why it is known as’Gods Own Country’. From the stunning beaches along the Malabar Coast to the maze of backwater canals cutting through huge rice fields to the glorious rolling hillside tea plantations in the Western Ghats, Kerala’s landscapes are almost as diverse as its people and the culture and history of the people of Kerala is a major factor in attracting the tourists.

ALSO SEE- Best Time to Visit Kerala

Kerala Tourism was also recommended among CNN Travel’s 19 places to visit in 2019 , Lonely Planet as one of the must visit family destinations to visit

Munnar tops the list among the best Places to Visit in Kerala
Kerala in India has it all: sun, sea, sand, good food, houseboats, culture and wildlife. Its spectacular natural landscapes — think palm trees and sprawling backwaters — lend the region the nickname “God’s Own Country.

– CNN Travel Wrote about tourist destinations in Kerala when it included Kerala among the 19 places to visit in 2019.

If you are planning to visit Kerala, here is a list of the best places to visit in Kerala curated by the holiday experts Iris Holidays

List of best places to visit in Kerala
From the awesome seashores along the Malabar Shore to the labyrinth of backwater pathways in Alleppey and Kumarakom to the fantastic verdant hillside tea gardens in Munnar, Kerala’s scenery and points of interest are almost as different and unique as its individuals and the lifestyle and record of the individuals of Kerala is a significant component in gaining the visitors from all over the world.

If you are preparing to check out Kerala, here is a list of the Top 25 places to visit in Kerala curated by the expert holiday professionals in Iris Holidays.

Athirappilly Waterfalls
Kovalam
Munnar
Alleppey
Thekkady
Kochi
Thiruvananthapuram
Kumarakom
Wayanad
Vagamon
Poovar
Kannur
Kasargod
Bekal
Nelliampathy
Marari
Malampuzha
Thrissur
Ashtamudi
Kozhikode
Varkala
Kollam
Ponmudi
Munroe Island

  1. Athirappilly Waterfalls

The Niagara Falls of India

The splendorous, 80-feet high and 330-feet wide, Athirapally Waterfalls is the biggest waterfall in Kerala. The waterfall is in the border of Ernakulam District and Thrissur District in Kerala and is in a protected area. The parallel streams resemble Niagara Falls in the Monsoon season and so-called ‘The Niagara falls of India’.

The area nearby the falls offers spectacular views of the Sholayar hills and the Western Ghats making Athirapally a beautiful tourist destination. You can choose a drive from Athirappilly to the Vazhachal falls through the dense forest watching the wide Kerala , known as Gods Own Country has some of the best tourist destinations in India for any kind of holiday. It is the land of coconuts, backwaters, elephants and the land of rich cultures and traditions, and has been one of the most sought after places by travelers from all around the world and the Best places to visit in kerala is a long list of places that exudes variety and rich heritage.


It is without doubt that Kerala is one of the most beautiful places on earth and that’s why it is known as’Gods Own Country’. From the stunning beaches along the Malabar Coast to the maze of backwater canals cutting through huge rice fields to the glorious rolling hillside tea plantations in the Western Ghats, Kerala’s landscapes are almost as diverse as its people and the culture and history of the people of Kerala is a major factor in attracting the tourists.
ALSO SEE- Best Time to Visit Kerala
Kerala Tourism was also recommended among CNN Travel’s 19 places to visit in 2019 , Lonely Planet as one of the must visit family destinations to visit

Munnar tops the list among the best Places to Visit in KeralaKerala in India has it all: sun, sea, sand, good food, houseboats, culture and wildlife. Its spectacular natural landscapes — think palm trees and sprawling backwaters — lend the region the nickname “God’s Own Country.
– CNN Travel Wrote about tourist destinations in Kerala when it included Kerala among the 19 places to visit in 2019.
If you are planning to visit Kerala, here is a list of the best places to visit in Kerala curated by the holiday experts Iris Holidays
List of best places to visit in KeralaFrom the awesome seashores along the Malabar Shore to the labyrinth of backwater pathways in Alleppey and Kumarakom to the fantastic verdant hillside tea gardens in Munnar, Kerala’s scenery and points of interest are almost as different and unique as its individuals and the lifestyle and record of the individuals of Kerala is a significant component in gaining the visitors from all over the world.
If you are preparing to check out Kerala, here is a list of the Top 25 places to visit in Kerala curated by the expert holiday professionals in Iris Holidays.
Athirappilly WaterfallsKovalamMunnarAlleppeyThekkadyKochiThiruvananthapuramKumarakomWayanadVagamonPoovarKannurKasargodBekalNelliampathyMarariMalampuzhaThrissurAshtamudiKozhikodeVarkalaKollamPonmudiMunroe Island
1. Athirappilly Waterfalls
The Niagara Falls of India
The splendorous, 80-feet high and 330-feet wide, Athirapally Waterfalls is the biggest waterfall in Kerala. The waterfall is in the border of Ernakulam District and Thrissur District in Kerala and is in a protected area. The parallel streams resemble Niagara Falls in the Monsoon season and so-called ‘The Niagara falls of India’.
The area nearby the falls offers spectacular views of the Sholayar hills and the Western Ghats making Athirapally a beautiful tourist destination. You can choose a drive from Athirappilly to the Vazhachal falls through the dense forest watching the wide variety of endangered Flora and fauna. There are also options for Daily Jungle Safari trips in Athirapally. The safari is organized by Thrissur District Tourism Promotion Council with Athirappilly Destination Management Council and is very safe.The nearby spots to the waterfalls are best for short and safe trekking. The stream is good for swimming and one can enjoy the soft touch of the spray of water while in the stream. Rainbows are almost always visible in the waterfalls adding hues to the views.variety of endangered Flora and fauna. There are also options for Daily Jungle Safari trips in Athirapally. The safari is organized by Thrissur District Tourism Promotion Council with Athirappilly Destination Management Council and is very safe.
The nearby spots to the waterfalls are best for short and safe trekking. The stream is good for swimming and one can enjoy the soft touch of the spray of water while in the stream. Rainbows are almost always visible in the waterfalls adding hues to the views.

Tourism on andaman and nickobar


Tourism is a major industry in Andaman. Bulk of the revenue earned by the government of Andaman and Nicobar is through the tourism industry. In 2008 total 136,426 tourists visited Andaman and Nicobar. Growing sectors in tourism and potential area of investment are water sports and adventure tourism including trekking, island camping, snorkeling and scuba diving. Sea aquarium, water theme park, wave surfing, marina yacht, convention centre, health resorts, sanctuaries, national park, inter-island cruise liner.[4]

Natural resource
Edit
Andaman and Nicobar has approximately 86 percent of forest area of its total land. The forests constitute an integral wing of the natural resource of Andaman and Nicobar and it houses 96 Sanctuaries and 9 National Parks.[4]

The primary sanctuaries that form a part of the natural resources of Andaman and Nicobar islands are Narcondum Hornbill Sanctuary, which protects hornbills; Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, which features a large variety of aquatic creatures; Nicobar Pigeon Sanctuary; South Sentinel Island Sanctuary, offering giant robber crabs; and North Reef Sanctuary, which is principally dedicated to the nurturing of a variety of water birds.[4]

Top 8 Tourist places in South India you will enjoy during summers


South India comprises Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Each state has its own unique traditions, culture, history and art, and for a traveller, the region is a repository of unique, memorable and enriching experiences. Here we touch upon some of the best places to visit.
Kerala

We couldn’t possibly choose just one place in Kerala to visit, given that each and every place that make this south Indian state hold their own beautiful and unique appeal, worthy of a visit. The state is a beautiful natural m goodarvel, fit with blissful backwaters; tea, spice and coffee plantations, gorgeous beaches, diverse wildlife and memorable golden sunsets. It also has a well-preserved cultural, art and historical heritage, which beckons art aficionados and history buffs. Plus, it’s also a gem for outdoor sports, with wildlife safari, backwater cruising, trekking, bamboo rafting and water sports as the most popular ventures. The must-visit places in Kerala include Munnar, Wayanad, Fort Kochi, Varkala and Alleppey.

Kerala, India

Tourism in Gujarat


Tourism in Gujarat

Aavo Padharo, words of welcome in the language of Gujarat because it is here that these words ring truly and the guest is ‘God’ and the people of Gujarat are gregariously friendly, inviting and will entice you to come again and again.

Stretches out into the Arabian Sea, with a hint of the desert and with a coastline of 1666 kms long is Gujarat – the home state of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of Nation. It is renowned for its beaches, temple towns and historic capitals. Wildlife sanctuaries, hill resorts and natural grandeur are gifts of Gujarat. Sculpture, handicrafts, arts, festivals also make the state rich. Gujarat is also among the most technologically advanced, housing the largest petrochemical complex in the country.

Gujarat has always been a major centre for the Jains and some of its most interesting locations are the Jain Temple centres at Palitana and Girnar Hills. Besides the Jain temples, the state’s major attractions include the only habitat of the Asiatic Lions in India (Gir Forests), a desert ride at the Wild Ass Sanctuary and the beautiful Indo-Saracenic Architecture of Ahmedabad. The colourful tribal villages of Kutch make a visit unforgettable.

Facts about Gujarat
Area : 1,96,024 sq km
Population : 60,383,628
Capital : Gandhinagar
Principal Language : Gujarati
Other Languages : English, Hindi and other Indian languages
Literacy Rate : 79.31%
Rainfall : 93.2 cm
Temperature : Summer: min 25 degrees to 45 dig’s
Winter: min 15 degrees to max 35 dig’s
Season : November to February
Eco System : Ranges from deserts, scrublands, grasslands, deciduous forests, and wetlands to mangroves, coral reefs, estuaries, and gulfs.

Time: GMT +5:30
Currency: Indian Rupee

Climate
Wet in the southern districts and Desertic in the north-west region
Winter: November to February (12 – 29 Celsius)
Summer: March to May (29 – 41 Celsius)
Monsoon: June to October (27 – 35 Celsius)

Emergency Numbers
Emergency: 108
Police: 100
Fire: 101
Ambulance: 102
General Inquiry – Phone: 197
Women Emergency Helpline : 1091
Toll Free: 1800 200 5080

Transport – Air
International Airport: Ahmedabad
Domestic Airport: Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Jamnagar, Porbandar, Surat, Rajkot, Bhavnagar, Bhuj

Major Cities
Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Rajkot, Bhuj, Junagadh, Jamnagar

Ports
Major: Kandla
Minor: Mandvi, Mundra, Sikka, Okha, Porbandar, Veraval, Bhavnagar, Salaya, Pipavav, Mahuva, Jafrabad, Hazira

A state with an amazingly varied topography ranging from the deep green of the dense forests to stark white at the salt plains. Its 1660 kilometers coastline is home to some of the most unique marine species and geographical locations at the state makes it an ideal matrix, a melting pot of a vast variety of culture, people, places and history due to eons of migratory influences. Along with all the migrations came in various ritual practices, cuisines, style of dresses, fairs and festivals, celebrations all of which were amalgamated and became a part of what this amazingly diverse state has to offer to you. This was possible as a result of trade, commerce and the dexterity of the people of Gujarat to accept and take in and make a part of all who come in here for succour, conquest or trade.

Top 10 most beautiful places in Kashmir


Kashmir valley is a popular tourist destination for domestic and foreign tourists. Among the popular tourist places in the valley are Gulmarg that has a ski resort, Dal Lake that has popular house boats, Pahalgam and the major Hindu shrine Amarnath Temple.

Before insurgency intensified in 1989, tourism formed an important part of the Kashmiri economy. As a result, the tourism economy in the Kashmir valley was worst hit. Thousands of Hindu pilgrims visit holy shrine of Amarnath every year and this significantly benefits the state’s economy.[15] But this yatra has put Kashmir on the verge of ecological disaster.[16]

Tourism in the Kashmir valley has rebounded in recent years and in 2009, the state became one of the top tourist destinations of India.[17] Gulmarg, one of the most popular ski resort destinations in India, is also home to the world’s highest green golf course.[18] However, with the decrease in violence in the state has boosted the states economy specifically tourism.[19] It was reported that 736,000 tourists including 23,000 foreigners visited Kashmir in 2010. Other tourist places include Sonamarg, Kokernag, Verinag, Aharabal and Semthan-Top.

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Meghalaye Scotland of east


Meghalaya also offers many adventure tourism opportunities in the form of mountaineering, rock climbing, trekking, and hiking, caving (spelunking) and water sports. The state offers several trekking routes, some of which also afford an opportunity to encounter rare animals. The Umiam Lake has a water sports complex with facilities such as rowboats, paddleboats, sailing boats, cruise-boats, water-scooters, and speedboats.

Cherrapunji is one of the popular tourist locations in north-east of India. It lies to the south of the capital Shillong. A rather scenic 50-kilometre long road connects Cherrapunji with Shillong.

Living root bridges are also an important tourist draw, with many examples located near Cherrapunji.[69] The famous Double-Decker root bridge, along with several others, is found in the village of Nongriat, which is tourist friendly. Many other root bridges can be found nearby, in the villages of Nongthymmai, Mynteng, and Tynrong.[60] Other areas with root bridges include Riwai village, near the tourist village of Mawlynnong, Pynursla, especially the villages of Rangthyllaing and Mawkyrnot, and the area around Dawki, in the West Jaintia Hills district, where there are many living root bridges scattered throughout the nearby villages.[61]

Umiam Lake, Shillong, Meghalaya, India
Waterfalls and rivers
The popular waterfalls in the state are the Elephant Falls, Shadthum Falls, Weinia falls, Bishop Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, Langshiang Falls and Sweet Falls. The hot springs at Jakrem near Mawsynram are believed to have curative and medicinal properties.

Nongkhnum Island located in the West Khasi Hills district is the biggest river island in Meghalaya and the second biggest in Asia. It is 14 kilometres from Nongstoin. The island is formed by the bifurcation of Kynshi River into the Phanliang River and the Namliang River. Adjacent to the sandy beach the Phanliang River forms a very beautiful lake. The river then moves along and before reaching a deep gorge, forms a pretty waterfall about 60 meters high called Shadthum Fall.

Sacred groves
Meghalaya is also known for its “sacred groves”. They are small or large areas of forests or natural vegetation that are usually dedicated to local folk deities or tree spirits or some religious symbolism over many generations, often since ancient times. These spaces are found all over India, are protected by local communities, and in some cases, the locals would neither touch leaves or fruits or in other ways damage the forest, flora or fauna taking refuge in them. This guardianship creates a sacred area where nature and wildlife thrive. The Mawphlang sacred forest, also known as “Law Lyngdoh,” is one of the most famous sacred forests in Meghalaya. It’s located about 25 kilometers from Shillong. It’s a scenic nature destination, and one can find the sacred Rudraksha tree here.[70]

Rural areas
Meghalaya rural life and villages offer a glimpse in northeast mountain life. The Mawlynnong village located near the India-Bangladesh border is one such village. It has been featured by travel magazine Discover India.[71] The village is geared for tourism and has a Living Root Bridges, hiking trails and rock formations.

This is meghalaya and Scotland of India in a east

Best places to vist in goa


There are many tourist places in Goa worth visiting. From the beaches in Goa, to the national parks and hills, churches, forts, markets, and the backwaters, you will find virtually everything in this small Indian state. In fact, there are so many choices that it may be difficult to see them all in one visit if you don’t have a list to guide you. So here’s a list of the must-see places in Goa that you should definitely include in your tour planning.

Many of the tourist places in Goa are famous landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage sites, beautiful churches, interesting local markets, and old Portuguese structures. Then there are the top beaches, water sports, and many natural attractions that you do not want to miss.

Make sure you don’t miss these best places to visit in Goa:

Map of the places to visit in Goa

1 – AGONDA BEACH

Agonda beach in South Goa is a must visit. 39.2 kilometers from Margao, this is an isolated stretch of sand lined by palm groves. It is a very quiet, peaceful, and picturesque beach with few tourists. There is a turtle center in the north, and rocky outcrops in the south. Developed tourist infrastructure! You will find many shops, cafes, beach shacks, bars, restaurants, yoga centers and massage parlors. But you will still get a less “touristic feel” here.

Agonda has been ranked as “Asia’s #1 beach for 2018” according to the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice® awards. It was ranked Asia’s 4th best beach in 2016 as well.

2 – FORT AGUADA

Fort Aguada is an old 17th century Portuguese fort in north Goa. It is at the confluence of the Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea on top of a hill. The Portuguese constructed this fort as a defense against the Marathas and the Dutch. There is a deep dry moat here and a 13 meter high lighthouse, which was constructed in 1864. Many buildings within the fort are still in very good condition.

From Aguada, you can get awesome views of the shoreline, the Arabian Sea, Mandovi River, and even the city of Panaji, which is on the other side of the river.

3 – CHAPORA FORT

The Chapora fort is in North Goa, close to Vagator beach. The Chapora River meets the Arabian Sea here. Chapora fort is a must-visit for those who love Bollywood Hindi movies. The famous Bollywood movie “Dil Chahta Hai” was filmed here. The fort is almost in ruins now, but it still offers incredible views of the river and the coastline. Take a picture – there are many photo opportunities here!

Distance from Panaji – 21.7 kilometers by the NH66.

4 – DUDHSAGAR FALLS

Witness the fury of nature, in what is one of India’s tallest and most powerful waterfalls. Dudhsagar Falls is 47 kilometers from Margao by the MDR52. It is located on the Goa-Karnataka border. Dudhsagar Falls looks most impressive in the monsoon when there is a lot of water.

It cascades down for 1017 feet from a steep mountain face. You can view the falls from a train journey to and from Margao, or you can trek to the base of the falls. You have to trek through the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park. There are many viewpoints along the way.

5 – BAGA BEACH

Baga beach in North Goa is one of Goa’s most popular beaches. The Baga River is in the north. Calangute beach, also popular, is in the south. The Baga-Calangute stretch is one of the longest sandy shores in Goa. You will find many beach shacks, pubs, restaurants, shops, nightclubs and water sports activities, including banana riding, speed boats, paddle boarding, paragliding, surf boarding, and more. Britto’s at the northern end of the beach is a famous shack. Club Tito’s and Cafe Mambo are two famous Goa nightclubs, both in Baga.

6 – ANJUNA WEDNESDAY MARKET

Started by hippies in the 1960s, the Anjuna flea market is a landmark in Goa. It is at the southern end of the Anjuna beach. The Anjuna flea market is open on Wednesdays between 9 AM and 6 PM. There are more than 500 stalls selling handicrafts, handmade jewelry, Kashmiri and Tibetan goods, bags, clothing, tribal artifac

Tourism to Sikkim


SIKKIM TRAVEL GUIDE
Under the starry sky exists a paradise that is full of warm-hearted people and fairytale destinations. Ornamenting the right shoulder of India, Sikkim is a hideout from the hullabaloo of chaotic urban life. Last to be added as a part of Northeastern Region, Sikkim vouches for an incredible holiday experience that is an assortment of adventure, opulent history, nature’s beauty, and heart melting culture. Music to the ears of holidaymakers, this Northeastern piece of melody is where rejuvenation awaits you amidst scintillating high altitude lakes, green sprawls, gorgeous waterfalls and meandering rivers; and where spirituality and peace of mind find you at serene monasteries; and celebration of a plethora of fairs & festivals makes you fall in love.
Capital: Gangtok Location: Northeast India
BEST TIME TO VISIT SIKKIM:
The summer season between March and June is the best time to visit Sikkim.
WHY VISIT SIKKIM?:
For uninterrupted view of Mt Khangchendzonga; Buddhist pilgrimage tour; adventure activities like trekking, mountaineering and river rafting; high altitude lakes and mountain passes; opulent culture; rejuvenation; honeymoon; fairs & festivals and gastronomic treat.
TEMPERATURE
5°C to 25°C
Summer
(March to June)
5°C to 20°C
Monsoon
(July – September)
-7°C to 5°C
Winter
(October – February)
LET’S PLAN YOUR TRIP
Top Tourist Places and Attractions in Sikkim

GANGTOK

ARITAR

LACHUNG

LACHEN

PELLING

YUKSOM

LEGSHIP

GEYZING
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An Insight into Sikkim Tourism
A fairytale land indeed, Sikkim is adorned with glistening high altitude lakes, rolling green mountains, pretty rhododendron groves, azure rivers, milky waterfalls and vivid monasteries. The west-most Northeastern state of Sikkim is evidently an abode of beauty, however, it does have a window of opportunity for adventure. Not to forget, the state is famous for its incredible view of the third highest mountain in the world, Mount Kanchenjunga/Khangchendzonga.
The first glance of Sikkim tourism impresses tourists with a scenic view of chains of mountains and lush greenery. In fact, the state boasts dramatic contours that range from dense forests to barren lands and patches of meadows. The northern part of Sikkim is primarily known for its high altitude lakes like Gurudongmar, and that of a meadow called Valley of Flowers. The scenery of this part of the state is quite distinctive, and that is why it is mostly preferred by adventurers who relish trekking, camping and mountaineering here. Also, the wildlife lovers enjoy their visit to North Sikkim which houses a larger portion of famous Khangchendzonga National Park. Apart from the lofty mountains, lakes and alpine meadows, the nature lovers can get mesmerized by the awe-inspiring beauty of the meandering and scintillating rivers like Teesta and Rangit that cut and run through several popular destinations in Sikkim. The mighty cascades/waterfalls such as Seven Sisters also add the dash of surrealness to the state, whereas the alpine mountain passes like Nathu La and Goecha La assist in adding more to the character of the heavenly place.
Standing second to the nature’s bountifulness in Sikkim are the vivid sacred sites. Sikkim, home to a copious quantities of Buddhist monasteries and a decent sum of Hindu Temples, Churches and Gurudwaras, opens it door wide for pilgrimage tours. The state that has been said to have been blessed by Guru Padmasambhav himself is dotted with 200 monasteries, each being unique in its own way. Amongst the prominent Buddhist places in Sikkim include Samdruptse, where the world’s highest Guru Padmasambhav statue is erected. Then there are monasteries like Pemayangtse, Tashiding, Rumtek, Enchey, Phensang, Ralong, Phodang, Tolung, and Labrang Palden Phuntsok that draws the attention of the Buddhist pilgrims and tourists alike. The Dubdi Monastery in Yuksom is also a heritage tour destination. The Kiretshwar Mahadev Temple on the bank of River Rangit in Legship and the Sai Mandi

Tourism to manali


Tourism to manali

TOURISM IN MANALI

Once called the “end of the habitable world,” Manali is an important hill station of northern India and is the destination of thousands of tourists every year. Its cool atmosphereprovides a perfect haven for the ones afflicted by the hot Indian summers. Besides offering quite a few places for sightseeing, Manali is also famous for adventure sports like skiing, hiking, mountaineering, paragliding, rafting, trekking, kayaking, and mountain biking. In brief, Manali-the veritable “valley of the Gods”-is an ideal place for the ones in search of both adventure and comfort. The Kulluis in brightly patterned puttoos, Tibetan women wearing ankle-length rainbow-striped pinafores, Nepali porters, Buddhist monks, and even the odd party of Zanskaris, swathed in fusty woolen gonchas, muddled together with souvenir-hunting Indian and Western tourists-all add up to the welcoming hubbub of Manali.

Location

Situated in the central parts of the northern state of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is at the head of the Kullu valley, 280 km north of the state capital Shimla and 108 km from Mandi. Manali is perched at an altitude of 2050 meters above sea level and is spread along the banks of the river Beas. In winters, the temperature can drop below freezing point when heavy woolens are required. Summer temperatures are mild and light woolens/cottons are recommended. In Manali, one can find high mountains shrouded by silent snows and deep boulder strewn gorges. There are thick forests, filled with cool breezes and bird song. There are fields of wild flowers, small picturesque hamlets and fruit-laden orchards, especially apples.

History

Manali has a pre-historic legend behind its name. Vaivasvata, the seventh incarnation of Manu, the first creation according to Hindu mythology, found a tiny fish in his bathing water. The fish told him to look after it with devotion, for one day it would do him a great service. The seventh Manu cared for the fish until it grew so huge that he released it into the sea. Before departing, the fish warned Manu of an impending deluge when the entire world would be submerged and bade him to build a seaworthy ark. When the flood came, Matsya (fish), the first avatar of Lord Vishnu, towed Vaivasvata and the Seven Sages to safety. As the waters subsided, the seventh Manu’s ark came to rest on a hillside and the place was named Manali after him.

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BEST TIME TO VISIT
The very well-known hill station of Manali is charming all around the year. While summers bring respite from the heated plains of the country, the winters cover the place with a sheet of white snow, making it all the more stunning. One can partake in sightseeing and adventure sports like river rafting, paragliding, zip lining and zorbing in summers, the winters are ideal for enjoying snowfall and snow sports in Manali. It is advisable to avoid the rainy season (July-August) because of landslides.

From September to February, the temperatures might go down to minus 1 degree Celsius and the weather is amazingly cold. In December and January, the place is entirely covered in snow. It is time for snow sports like skiing, snow scooter ride etc. March to June are summer months where the temperature is pleasant, varying between 10 degree C to 25 degree C. During this time, sightseeing, adventure activities at Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass (closed in winter months due to snow on roads) are a must.

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HOW TO REACH

BY AIR –
Bhuntar airport or Kullu Manali airport is the nearest airport to Manali. It is located at a distance of around 50 km from the main city. This airport at Bhuntar is very well-connected with regular flights to important Indian cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. From outside the airport, private taxis are available.

BY RAIL –
The nearest railway station to Manali is Jogindernagar railway station, which is located at a distance of 143 km from here. This railhead connects Manali with important cities of India. Chandi