Celebrate Christmas in India, Christmas in Incredible India

 Christmas, the birthday of Lord Jesus, is celebrated on December 25 every year. Being a multiracial country, India celebrates all festivals with same spirit and enthusiasm. Christmas is no different. A Christmas in India means singing, dancing, exchanging greetings and praying to the almighty for his love and blessings. The most prominent place to celebrate Christmas holidays in India is Goa. Not surprisingly, thousands of holiday travellers book cheap tickets and dig for all the possible travel information about India. The Indian state is famous all over the world for its blissful rave parties, sunburn events and dazzling beachside carnivals, which soak the travellers with pleasure and fun from head to toe.

In India Christmas is celebrated not only by Christians but by people of other faiths as well. Shops, churches, streets and houses take on the festive air this season. It’s also the time when people deck their homes with hanging lights, toys, flowers and most importantly Christmas tree. People don new clothes and exchange gifts with their friends and relatives. Christmas delectables like cakes, plum puddings; pies are prepared for family and friends. Christmas trees are decorated and set up at home with gifts for everyone. Special mass, midnight mass is held in the churches which are decorated very beautifully.
Santa Claus’ visit is much awaited by the children who hang up socks at home, hoping to get their desired gift. In shopping malls and gift stores a person dressed as Santa Claus goes around distributing chocolates to children. In many schools, nativity scenes are enacted and a Christmas party is held before the short winter break. Winter in India is a peak time for travel and tourism.
In India, Christmas is known as Bada Din (big day). People seldom miss the midnight masses held in churches. The midnight mass is followed by merrymaking. Children in particular enjoy the most. They dance to the tunes of drums and cymbals, perform group dances using multi-colored sticks. And also receive gifts from their favourite Santa Claus, parents and other elders. Here are some of the most happening spots for spending Christmas holidays in India.

Goa - Goa, with its large Christian population, is one of the best places to have a traditional Christmas in India -- Indian style! Its many beautiful old Portuguese style churches overflow with people and Christmas cheer, during this time. People can look forward to heady festivity full of music, dance and good food in Goa.
Darjeeling - If you want to see the true festive spirit of Christmas celebrations in India then you must visit Darjeeling. Darjeeling during Christmastime becomes a winter wonderland with tinsels, candles, hanging lights and other decorative stuffs. People from all over the globe come to see how people celebrate Christmas in Darjeeling. One can see a bevy of activities happening in the town. Tourists hire cars to travel through the treacherous roads surrounded by lush green foliage and the snow-capped mountains to witness the Christmas celebrations.
The hill stations in India are also popular destinations during the Christmas week. If tourists are lucky enough they can enjoy a white Christmas at the hill stations. During Christmas, hotels offer special packages at special rates. Some hotels organize special events to celebrate Christmas and give their guests a feel of the Christmas celebrations in the West. The North East comprises the Seven Sister States of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura. Teeming with a Christian population and an anglicised culture, the North East ushers in Christmas with a boom. In fact, Nagaland's Christian tribal communities alone work up a unique atmosphere. Children sing carols in both English and Nagamese and the chanting of carols become a soothing music to the ear. Every church holds midnight masses drawing in huge crowds of devotees. Throughout the day, there are Christmas carnivals and circuses, while the nights culminate into memorable Christmas dinner parties. The mountainous terrain and the raw natural beauty of the North East add its own generous bit of charisma to the celebrations.

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India Winter Travel Destinations | Indian winter Vacations Destinations

India, the inimitable, incomparable and intoxicating travel destination, is a true treasure trove. Traveling in India is an experience, where each destination is a welcome break from the usual. From culture to heritage to wildlife to adventure to pilgrimage to nature, whatever the theme of your travel may be, India has the perfect destination for you. India is one destination, which has the magical power to change your life in ways than you can ever believe. Check it out for yourself...

Winter is one of the best seasons in India for travel and vacationing. Breathtaking beauty of Himalayan mountains, ample snowfall, panoramic natural views, frozen lakes, bonfire, winter festivals, adventure sports, and skiing facilities make India a popular winter destination for all sections of tourists with diverse flavors.

Broadly speaking there are two types of vacation preferences in winter- destinations which have a warm climate and destinations which have heavy snowfall during the winter season. The diversified land of India offers both the extremes at the same time, thus making it a prime attraction for both domestic and international tourists looking to revitalize their mind, body, and soul.

There are a wide array of options available for tourists who are looking to experience a dream winter vacation in India. Some of the famous tourist destinations to travel during the winter season are:

Auli 
Auli is a renowned destination for skiing and sightseeing in Uttarakhand, India. It is a little difficulty to get to this ski village which requires an overnight camp to reach from Delhi (500 km) the nearest major airport but the effort is worth it when there is a lot of snow.
The closest airport to reach Auli is Dehradun (298 kms), the capital of Uttaranchal. Auli has well connectivity through road - There are frequent buses, hired jeeps and taxis running for Auli from Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun, and Delhi. Auli does not have a railway station. Ramnagar, Kathgodam, Kotdwara, and Rishikesh are the nearby railway stations connecting to Auli. There are a good range of budget and deluxe hotels available for tourists to stay.
Auli has excellent snowy slopes and is equipped with the best skiing facilities which makes it a favorite of ski lovers from across the world. You can also come here if you want to learn skiing. There are Skiing courses and professional instructors available for beginners. Steep snowcapped mountains, frequent snowfalls, hot springs, and ancient temples make Auli a fabulous trip for Trekkers and nature lovers who don't intend to ski.

Tourists and Trekkers are rewarded with magnificent views of taller Himalayan peaks - Nanda Devi, Kamet, Mana Parvat, Chhang Bhang, Lampak, Dunagiri and snow covered beatiful alpine forests dominated by Golden Oaks, Pines, and Rhododendron trees. Thus Auli proves to be a perfect combination of a sightseeing tour and an adventure trip.

Gulmarg
Gulmarg popularly known as "Meadow of Flowers" is the most frequented winter destination of India. The gorgeous hill resort is easily accessible from Srinagar (56 kms from Srinagar) where regular bus services and tourist taxis are available to reach Gulmarg. The buses go till Tangmarg which is 11 kms from Gulmarg and the remaining distance can be covered by smaller vehicles and tourist taxis.

The journey to the Gulmarg offers nothing but a spectacular experience to travelers - wide roads, snow-clad mountains, thick forests, fruit laden orchards and picturesque villages holding vast expanses of rice and maize fields. No wonder that Gulmarg has been the venue of several films in the past.

There are numerous hotels of different standards available for accommodation and stay in Gulmarg, some being luxury, others being budget hotels. There are also JKTDC's winterized, fully furnished huts and cottages, which offer a great value for money to tourists.

Gulmarg is dotted with countless sites of interest for the tourists. Snow covered hills, splendid lakes, beautiful flower valley covered with colorful Daisies, Bluebells, wild flowers, Forget Me Not's and Buttercups, and scenic pastorals are perfect for sightseeing, adventure and relaxation. Gulmarg is also India's popular Ski Resort which hosts world's highest gondola ski lift. The skiing season lasts from November to February. Gulmarg also has the highest golf course in the world. Tourists are offered short term memberships by the golf club to play in the Golf Course. Other adventure sport available is Trekking, Horse riding.

Popular places to visit in Gulmarg are Khilanmarg which is the spot for skiing and offers stunning views of the Kashmir valley and the Himalayan range, Alpather Lake a picturesque frozen alpine lake, and shrine of Baba Reshi, a Muslim mystic saint where you can get a close view of snow covered hills and feel the joy of pleasant weather, Ferozpore Nallah, and Gulmarg Biosphere Reserves.

Haflong
Haflong is a hill station in Assam also referred as the land of blue hills. Haflong is connected by road and air from Guwahati, around 353 kms. from Guwahati by road. Deluxe buses run from Main Road, Hamringdi cinema for Silchar and Guwahati. The other nearest metro for getting to Haflong is Kolkata. Lower Haflong has a railway station with a slow and scenic ride to Lumding, Silchar, and Dharmanagar.

Haflong is famous for its scenic features comprising of azure blue mountains, cascading waterfalls, emerald green rivers, pleasing orchards of oranges, pineapple gardens, unique orchids such as Blue Vanda, and rare species of birds. Jatinga, a popular bird watching center is a haven for hundreds of migratory birds in winter. November to February is the best season to spend some quality time at Haflong as Wild orchids, orange orchards and pineapple gardens are at their best. The green valley and the hilly treks at Borai hills are hotspots of adventure tourism events like hang gliding, Para-gliding and Trekking.

Popular tourist attractions at Haflong are - a lake resort developed in the lavish green hills around the town, Garampani, a hot-water spring which is believed to have medicinal value are other tourist attractions and 12th century monolithic Ramchandi Temple at Mai bong.

India Monsoon Travel Destinations | India Monsoon Travel

 Ladakh and Leh -
In the furthest far flung corner of northern India, in Ladakh near the Indus Valley, lies the town of Leh. This remote place has become a popular tourist destination since Ladakh was opened to foreigners in 1974. Bounded by two of the world's largest mountain ranges and surrounded by alpine desert, its dry barren landscape full of historic Buddhist monasteries makes it an incredible sight to behold. Leh is cut off by road from the rest of the world for most of the year, except from around June to October when the snow has melted, although it's accessible by flight from Delhi, Jammu and Srinagar all year round.

 The Valley of Flowers National Park -
The stunning landscape of The Valley of Flowers, in northern India's state of Uttarakhand (previously known as Uttaranchal), comes alive with the monsoon rain. This high-altitude Himalayan valley has around 300 different varieties of flowers, which appear as a bright carpet of color against a mountainous snow capped background. The Valley of Flowers is only open from April to October as it's covered in snow the rest of the year. It's the perfect destination for those that love hiking and exploring nature, as it requires a 15 kilometer (9 mile) trek up a steep mountain trail to get there. The incredible beauty waiting at the end is well worth the effort though.
 
 Goa -
 Although it won’t be possible to enjoy the sun, sand and surf during the monsoon, Goa has lots more to offer than just the beach! There’s some spectacular scenery to explore, vibrant monsoon festivals to take part in, and fishing to try your luck at as well. What makes travel to Goa even more attractive at this time of year are the specials offered by five star hotels to lure customers. Luxury that costs a small fortune during the peak season is much more affordable during the monsoon.
 
Ayurvedic Resorts and Hospitals -
Monsoon time is the perfect time to experience India’s ancient rejuvenating art of ayurvedic medicine. The rainy season is ideal for ayurvedic treatment because the atmosphere remains cool, moist, and dust free. This helps the body’s pores to open up, making it most receptive to herbal oils and therapy. Southern India has some excellent ayurvedic resorts and hospitals where you can relax and recharge.
 
Periyar National Park -
Located down south in Kerala, the great thing about Periyar National Park is that unlike most others in India, it stays open during the rains for everyone to enjoy its beauty. Furthermore, it's unique in that safaris are only carried out by boat, making it a very peaceful place to be. The lake is particularly captivating at sunset. It's also possible to stay in the thickets of the national park at one of the charming accommodations provided by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation.

Spring Vacations | Spring Vacations North America

 Planning a luxurious spring vacations is all about doing something exceptional for your children. This season of t-shirts and shorts inspires your child to spread his wings in the open sky as much as he wants to, dying to take delights in countless adventurous spots, and thus behaves as if he has said good bye for ever to his planned school life.

Owing to the fact that schools across the North America do not break at the same time so it becomes quite predictable that you may not find cluster of families enjoying during the summers. It also becomes impossible for them to book airline tickets in advance and consequently spring witnesses lesser crowds in comparison to the summers. But, that does not mean that spring has nothing to offer. Of course, it has and it all depends upon you that how much you are interested in giving your children a memorable spring break experience, where all the attractions should only be for them and hence they can make most of it.

Talking about spring season and its entrancing mirthful spots, it is clear that it bags greater diversity in comparison to summer travel destinations. There are many resorts that are open until mid-April, and are a major call for passionate snow lovers. You can also move to desert or tropical resorts that are hotter to handle the scorching summer. Astonishingly, the picture of spring destination is really cheerful in the south as there are numerous engaging locations that either seem to give a direct competition to the humid dog days or make fun of them. Some dashing spring spots such as ski and desert resorts are being discussed below, which are brilliant in providing you budget deals and discounts in spring, as their high season winds down. So, please have a look.

Galveston, Texas
Galveston in Texas, where your children can enjoy to the extreme. Here, the well known Moody Gardens attracts your kids towards its outstanding family fun-frolic activities, and also take major care of all your requirements that vary from hotel accommodation to traveler's hubs like discovery museum, paddle wheeler, aquarium, and rain forest (with bat cave and two-toed sloths), all are faultless in giving you a complete one-stop family fun. The enthusiasm of the children is worth-beholding throughout one-day kids’ camps organized with gala themes. Moreover, it also makes your children exceedingly elated by introducing splendid conveniences like kids’ club, a spa, golf course, Schlitterbahn Water Park right next door along with Texas-size pool, and thus by utilizing some natural shades to joy the spirit of your family, this tropical destination appears to be a great weekend retreat.

Naples, Florida
Naples in Florida has an image of fascinating vacationers from different parts of the world. It is so because it lets them undergo and understand its natural endowments from front and center both. Visiting the Conservancy of Southwest Florida in the month of March and April, it motivates you to join daily nature walks and enthralling wildlife sightseeing cruises and striking sailing actions on Fridays. But, still if your family’s heart desires more then go head and book kayak and canoe tours that swear by that entire enjoyment is yours. Talking more about it also underlines that the Conservancy also looks after Naples Nature Center with Briggs Nature Center and wooded trails with its boardwalk, birds, butterfly garden, kayaking, and canoeing.

Plus the panoramic vista of Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens just spellbinds you by displaying its best bets such as Leopard Rock, Alligator Bay (don't miss the feedings), and Primate Expedition Cruises, which sail past islets of lemurs, spider monkeys,and siamangs. However, a family saunter to the age-old historic Fishing Pier may bring you close to the leaping dolphins.

Lafayette, Louisiana
Coming here I in Lafayette is fantastic as you can make an attempt of learning about Cajun culture at Vermillionville, where Cajun life and history is brought to life with the help of crafts demonstrators and interpreters. Lafayette can be a guiding light for students , as well as leisure trippers especially, if they plan to take factory tours at Avery Island. It is an exceptional place in the world that is known for producing Tabasco sauce. It is also noteworthy for its beauteous wildlife, loaded gardens and bayous. Further, spending a day with your family in watching gators at McGee's Landin on an Atchafalaya Basin Swamp Tour will also be a good idea.

Okay, if you are over and done with your excursion trips in Lafayette then it is the time of paint the town red in the night and dancing fanatically on loudmouthed beats, playing in the bars. But various places like Randol Restaurant and Cajun Dance hall are a great medium to spend some quality time on most Fridays in March and April, amidst Lafayette's most appealing festivals and family-oriented concerts, encompassing Downtown Alive. Nevertheless, make your weekends more artistically rich by visiting Pyromania XIII in the month of April, where hands-on instruction are given to you

San Diego, California
If gorgeous spring destinations are talked about, how can one forget San Diego in California, North America. It is a fabulous place for a family spring fling and innumerable reasons to prove that. First and the foremost reason is that it speaks high volume of its Surfing Academy, which welcomes the backpackers of all ages who urge to learn surfing. Plus, a tour to a famed Balboa Park, which is sprawled up to 1,000-plus acres is outfitted with inspirational 15 museums, and the stellar zoo of the place is just out of this world. Other main draws include riding the ferry to Coronado or bike riding, as well as gliding on a real gondola through waterways, all activities are really fun-frolic and are incomparable for your family break. Once you are here, it is confirmed that endless vibrant actions are going to entice you. For instance your old town trolley tours that are exclusive laid-back sightseeing trips. Before we finish, do not skip to check out GoCar Tours' mini "talking" cars that are famous for combining tour and vehicle guide and hiring a kayak in La Jolla exemplify to discover what is undiscovered till date.

St. Lucia, Caribbean
Best time when spring provides the great weather to cover this paradise for active families with older kids is before June, before the tropical storms blows. And also becomes the wonderful place for hikers and cyclists that have miles of trails, which are Millet Bird Sanctuary Trail, 1,000 feet beyond the level of sea, is relatively defying, whereas Forestierre Rainforest Trail is amiable. Experienced windsurfers can also be beckoned towards Cas en Bas and Vieux Fort. St. Lucia is certainly a romantic getaway, which allows you to romance, get adventurous and dwells some prized nature’s beauties. Coming here is also stimulating your sense enclosed by postcard perfect scenery and immaculate topography. Furthermore, this small, lush tropical gem, which is still unknown amongst voyagers also has perfect majestic surrounds for hosting upcoming nuptials. However, the inclusion of exotic places like Marigot Bay and 100-year-old Castries market with spices, crafts, and tropical foods really represents that it sets you free to do it all and resume for more of course.

Tags: Summer Holidays in North America, Spring Vacations in North America

Incredible India : Darjeeling---The Queen of Hills

Darjeeling is a small hill-station in West Bengal, India. The city of Darjeeling is widely popular in the name of “Queen of the Hills”. Before the British administrators took control over India, the clusters of the hilly villages of Darjeeling were under the Nepal and Sikkim administrations. In the mid-nineteenth century, during the British rule in India, Darjeeling grew in importance because of its wonderful climatic conditions and the beautiful nature. The British rulers established a hill station in Darjeeling by taking it in lease from the Chogyal (i.e., king) of Sikkim.

Years later, they discovered that the entire Darjeeling region was ideal for tea plantations. Hence they turned this place a tea-gardening hub and the famous Darjeeling tea processing industry was set up. In 1849, the British annexed this place and Darjeeling became a part of British India. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was opened in 1881. This railway has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The British’s turned Darjeeling as the de-facto summer capital of India while governing the country from Calcutta---the British capital of India. This is the brief history of this world famous Himalayan vacation destination in India—A world famous vacation leisure spot, the peaceful travelers put on their top preference.

Darjeeling is better recognized as the “Queen of the Hills”. This place is popular among Honeymoon Travelers, family vacation trips, and adventure travel etc. The lush green tea estates, spread across the valleys of this Himalayan town, produces the world famous Darjeeling Tea. It’s an ideal hill-station since the British regime in India. Reaching here, travelers takes part in wide verities of vacation activities like sightseeing to adventure sports like river rafting, fishing, trekking, and mountaineering. Once you manage to spend a few days’ vacation in this Himalayan hill-station, you will definitely realize the nuances of Darjeeling---It’s the Queen of the Hills.

Besides the green lush natural bliss and the mountain valleys, the Darjeeling town itself has many visitors’ attraction. Along with enjoying the great vacation moments, you must visit the following tourists’ attraction of Darjeeling:

Tiger-Hill: Tiger-Hill is nearly 12km from Darjeeling and it is the mecca for travelers visiting the mountains. You will have to do a little struggle by getting up 4 am to take a glimpse of the Tiger-Hill sunrise over the Mt. Kanchanjangha range. The place of Darjeeling is mystic by nature,during your journey to Tiger-Hill you may take taste of the world famous Darjeeling tea and enjoy the early morning hours. You must be hiring a shared taxi around 4 a.m. to reach the venue. But, remember, these shared taxi-drivers may keep waiting to get more passengers to the same destination which may cause you to miss the Tiger-Hill Sunrise. If you are a lone traveller or as a couple make sure to book your conveyance earlier. It will help in avoiding the on-road waiting, and a sure view of the Tiger-Hill sunrise.

Observatory-Hill: It is one of the oldest travel sites in the town of Darjeeling. The Observatory hill is locally popular in the name of “Makal-Babu-Ko-Thaan”. It is in report that there used to be a Red Hat Buddhist Monastery at this location which was destroyed by the Nepalese people in the nineteenth century. Still the place has great interest to the travellers in Darjeeling.
Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Darjeeling

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI):This is one of the highly visited tourist place in Darjeeling. Tenzing Norgay, the great Indian Sherpa established this mountaineering institute. He climbed the top of the Mount Everest on 29th of May 1953 with Sir Edmund Hillary. The mountaineering equipment used in that historical climb is the great visitor’s attraction in theHimalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling.

Himalayan Zoo (Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park): The special attraction of the Darjeeting zoo to the visitors is, it has a large collection of varieties of animals, especially from the Himalayan regions. This zoo shares the HMI premises. For every visitor, there are enough reasons to visit the Darjeeling Zoo because some rare species of endangered animals are preserved in this place. The list of these rare animals includes Siberian Tigers, Red Pandas, Yaks, Himalayan Bears, Snow Leopards etc. The Darjeeling zoo, is a lovely place for entertainment and closely watch the animals from the Himalayan regions.

Japanese Peace Pagoda: This spectacular building is one of the best examples of 30 pagodas located around the world. This Japanese Peace pagoda was built by the Japanese Buddhist Nipponzan-Myohoji Order on the outskirts of Darjeeling in 1992.

Buddhist Monasteries: There are a couple of Buddhist monasteries are located in the Darjeeling town. The famous monastery of Guru Shakya Monastery is situated at Ghoom. It was established in 1915. The main prayer hall of this monastery can accommodate more than 60 monks. The other famous monastery,Druk Thubten Sangag Choling Monasteryis the only Buddhist religious place in the eastern side educates the disciples and Buddhist monks from the Himalayan regions. Currently there are 210 monks stay at this monastery. There are two prayer sessions every day. Besidesthese,Bhutia Busty Monastery (1.5 km from Chowrasta),Yiga-Choling Buddhist Monastery (at Ghoom) are the other holly Buddhist places in Darjeeling.
The Darjeeling Toy Trains

Another greatest tourist attraction in Darjeeling is the 'Darjeeling Himalayan Railway'. The diesel propelled small-capacity trains runs through this route are popularly called "Toy Train". The Darjeeling toy train route is610 mm rail route (i.e., narrow gauge rail route). It begins from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling. The Indian Railway runs and maintains the Toy Trains in the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.

Lets take a look at the history of this world famous joyride route and the Toy Trains through the Darjeeling-New Jalpaiguri rail route. This 86 km long railway route was constructed between 1879--1881 AD. The elevation level of this railway route is about 2,200 metres in Darjeeling and 100 meters in New Jalpaiguri. Only four modern diesel engines are engaged in handle the everyday transportation jobs. But, the daily tourist trains between Darjeeling to Ghum are managed by vintage British-built B Class steam locomotives. In the year of 1999, UNESCO has recognized this train as one of the world heritage site. The Ghum railway station is India's highest railway station.

About Kerala | Kerala Tourism | Kerala Tour | Kerala Vacation


The Marvel Called Kerala…
Wedged between the Western Ghats on the East and the Arabian Sea on the West, the narrow strip of land known as Kerala is a destination of a lifetime. 
The timeless beauty of the palm fringed beaches of Kovalam and Varkala, the majesty of the undulating hills of Munnar and Vagamon, the serenity of the pristine backwaters of Kumarakom & Kuttanad and the enchanting woods and forests of Thekkady and Silent Valley will have you bowled over.
That such a small terrain can hold diverse geographical features and cultures is a wonder in itself.




 What others say about Kerala...
The National Geographic Magazine lists Kerala in the 'Ten Paradises of the World'
Kerala is truly the undiscovered India. It is God's own country and an enchantingly beautiful, emerald-green sliver of land. It is a tropical paradise far from the tourist trial at the southwestern peninsular tip, sandwiched between the tall mountains and the deep sea. Kerala is a long stretch of enchanting greenery. The tall exotic coconut palm dominates the landscape.

There is a persistent legend which says that Parasuram, the 6th incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the Hindu Trinity, stood on a high place in the mountains, threw an axe far in to the sea, and commanded the sea to retreat. And the land that emerged all from the waters became Kerala, the land of plenty and prosperity.
 

Overview:

Any mention about Kerala, conjures in one’s mind, an image of pristine backwaters, palm fringed beaches, tranquil villages and greenery in profusion. God has generously bestowed this land with the bounties of nature and so it only seems natural when Kerala is referred to, as God’s own country.

A much sought-after destination for tourists in India and abroad, Kerala is named as one of the ‘Ten Paradises of the World’ and ‘Fifty Places of a Lifetime’ by the National Geographic Traveler Magazine. The alluring serenity of this place leaves every tourist spell bound, making them come back year after year.

Be it the sun-kissed beaches or the misty hill stations; the rhythmic backwaters or the forestlands rich with all varieties of flora and fauna; pilgrim centres or historic monuments; Kerala has everything you might travel far and wide to see. Just one visit and you will know why Kerala has the lovely epithets attached to it. It is one of the top 20 tourist destinations of the world where tourists can soak themselves in serene and scenic natural beauty.


So come over to this land that holds promises of leaving you mesmerized and gifting you one of the best holidays you have ever had....

Wildlife of India Indian Wildlife


India is full of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks many of which used to be the hunting grounds for the Maharajas and colonial masters of the bygone era. Every year, these wildlife holiday destinations attract thousands of visitors from different parts of the globe. A major reason behind the popularity of Indian forests is the economy factor as going on a wildlife tour to quite a few other countries works out to be much more expensive than visiting India's jungles. Furthermore, India is a prime destination for ecotourism. Eco-friendly hotels, resorts and tourism operators have sprung up around some of India's most popular wildlife travel destinations, the growing popularity of India on the tourist radar has also prompted many airlines to operate cheap flights to India. This has led to increasing competition and the availability of more and more cheap tickets for travellers. so if you're looking for ecotourism destinations in India, it's best to start by looking at parks, tiger reserves and bird sanctuaries where a wide range of ecotourism options are available.

Corbett National Park & Tiger Reserve:
Sprawling over a humongous area in the hill state of Uttarakhand, the Corbett National Park was the erstwhile hunting ground of the legendary Englishman, Colonel Jim Corbett. Corbett National Park has a jungle setting where you can observe tigers, leopards, crocodiles, elephants, wild boar and other animals. The park is open from mid-November through mid-June and is closed the rest of the year due to monsoon rains. The nearest town is Dhikala, which can be reached from Ramnagar (32 miles), Lucknow (90 miles) and Delhi (186 miles). Ramnagar is the closest railhead, and from the railway station you can take a local bus to Dhikala. Once at the park, you can stay in an eco-resort, take an elephant safari, tour the park and reserve by Jeep or go bird watching. There are a number of eco-friendly resorts and hotels in and around the park. There are excellent accommodation facilities in areas near the Park as well as right in the heart of the jungle. One of the best ways to explore Corbett National Park is by going on an elephant safari. Bus and Jeep tours are available as well. Before visiting Corbett, one should be mindful of the fact that the best jungle experience is felt by staying inside the park rather than putting up in accommodation facilities outside the park's boundaries.

Ranthambore National Park:
The Ranthambore National Park is located in the desert state of Rajasthan. By visiting this park, it also becomes convenient to take a historical odyssey through Rajasthan and add more value to one's expenditure on flights to India. In fact, the Ranthambore Fort is part of the forest. Besides being home to the big cats like tigers and leopards, Ranthambore National Park is also full of sloth bears, wild boars, sambhars, nilgais, dholes, and chitals. One of the best places in the park for catching glimpses of wildlife is Bakula as an abundance of watering holes and pools attracts many animals to this area and lucky visitors even get to see tigresses basking in the sun with their cubs. For touring the jungle, one has to buy tickets for bus or jeep safaris. Early mornings are the best times for taking these safaris.


Gir Forest National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary:
The Gir Forest National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is absolutely not to be missed during one's India holidays. It is the sole surviving home of Asiatic lions. Another big cat to be found here is the leopard. Besides, there are various other forms of fauna life such as wild boars, blue bull or nilgai, striped hyenas, chousinghas or four horned antelopes, as well as numerous bird species like Saras Crane, Asian Paradise Flycatcher, crested serpent eagle, and red headed falcon. Gir also has plenty of reptiles and enjoys a robust marsh crocodile population. Most visitors take the morning and evening drives into the forest and utilise the time in between visit the famous temples of Somnath such as Shore Temple, Sun Temple, and Ahilya Temple.

Sunderbans National Park:
This UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve is well-known for its dense mangrove forests and man eating Royal Bengal tigers. Even today, there is no consensus amongst scientists as to why tigers here are naturally man eaters. In fact, there is local superstition in the area that one is lucky not to see a tiger in Sunderbans as the person will end up as a meal for the tiger. Sunderbans also does not lack in aquatic and reptilian life forms such as crocodiles, olive ridley sea turtles, king cobras, hardshelled batgur terrapin, and chequered killbacks. For birdwatchers, the park is a veritable treat to the eyes with its exotic winged denizens such as herons, terns, white bellied sea eagles, whimprels, and eastern knots. A launch safari through the waters of Sunderban is one of the major draws here.

Keoladeo Ghana National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary):
Formerly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, this 18-square-mile park is home to more than 350 different species of birds. You can reach the park, located in Rajastan, from transport hubs at Agra (35 miles) and Jaipur (110 miles). The closest international airport is in Delhi. From August through November is the best time to see resident breeding birds, and from October through February you can see migrant bird populations. Motor vehicles are not permitted in the park, but bikes are available to rent at the park entrance or from nearby eco-friendly hotels.

Periyan Wildlife Sanctuary & Tiger Reserve:
Periyan Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. The nearest town is Kumily, and the closest railway station is 114 miles away at Kottayam. From Kottayam or Kochi (125 miles), you can take local transport to Kumily. The best time to visit the park is from October through June. The sanctuary is set around an artificial lake created by the British in 1895. Around the lake you will find an ecosystem including elephants, tigers, langur monkeys, wild boars, bison and many different species of birds, plants and flowers. Ecotourism activities include jungle night patrol, bamboo rafting, hiking and touring the area by bullock cart.

Incredible India, Incredible India Vacations

There are lots of travel agents and tour operators in India that offer a variety of tour packages at affordable prices. Tour operators in India are well organized offering the best services to the tourists.  

India is an incredible tourist destination. One can find all types of attractions in the country. . India has immense tourism potential. Tourists from different parts of world visit the country.

India is a culturally rich and diverse nation. One can understand this aspect of the country by looking at the diversity of people who live here. The poor and the beggars, middle class, the stinking rich, millionaires all find a home here. Another distinctive feature rarely found elsewhere is the existence of different religious communities. Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi, etc flourish in the country.

Indians are extremely hospitable. They go out of their way to make their guest feel welcome. Serving is a way of showing their love and respect to their guest. Many people in India offer genuine service to outsiders who come to visit India. Sometimes, they even sacrifice their own comfort for the well-being of others. This is their principle and they stick to it no matter what.

India also has a rich heritage. It is one of the many reasons why it is so popular internationally. Plan your holiday here and acquaint yourself with its colourful festivals. Indians celebrate a large number of festivals, most of them highly spectacular and lively. Below is the list of some prominent festivals and events of the country.

Republic Day - Celebrated on 26th January every year to commemorate the day when the Indian republic and its constitution came into force. It was on this day in the year 1946 that the country became a sovereign, democratic and republic state.

Holi - The colorful festival of Holi is celebrated on February end or early March. The colorful festival bridges social gap and renew relationships. Holi celebration begins with lighting of bonfire on the Holi eve. Numerous legends and stories are associated with Holi making the festival more exuberant and vivid. People rub 'gulal' and 'abeer' on each other’s faces and greet each other saying, "Happy Holi".

Independence Day - India got its independence from the clutches of British on 15th August 1947. It was on this very same day that India’s tricolor flag was unfolded by Pandit Nehru on the barricades of the Red Fort at Delhi. Since then, it has become a day of special significance - celebrated with parades, patriotic speeches and songs. On this day, the Prime Minister addresses the nation after the flag has been unfurled recounting the country's achievements of the year, discussing current major issues and future plans for the progress of the country.
The national flag is hoisted throughout the country fluttering with pride on rooftops and buildings. All government offices host flag hoisting ceremony. Recently, kite-flying has become a tradition on this day and people can be seen flying numerous kites of all colors, sizes and shapes symbolizing the spirit of freedom.

Krishna Janmashtami - Shri Krishna Janmashtami is the birthday of Lord Krishna, one of the favorite deities of Hindus. He is worshipped for his immense power, captivating appearance, unique charm and playfulness. For some, he is a hero, a lover or the guide; while for others, he is a child. He resides in the heart of every devotee and fulfills everyone's wish, if he is worshipped with in-depth devotion.
The celebrations of Janmashtami are marked by cultural programmes, chanting of bhajans and special pujas. Dance drama is performed by professional artists, or kids, wherein the formative years of Lord Krishna's life are depicted. The dance, which is known as Shri Krishna Rasa leela, is one of the significant parts of the celebrations, as Lord Krishna spent the decisive part of his life amidst the Gopis in Vrindavan.

Ganesh Chaturthi - It is a festival marked on the occasion of Lord Ganesh’s birthday, the god of wisdom and prosperity. It falls on the fourth day of the moons bright fortnight, or period from new moon in the lunar month of Bhadrapada. The celebrations continue for five, seven, or ten days. Some even stretch it to twenty one days. In the tradition of the right hand path the first day is the most important. In the left hand path tradition the final day is most important.

Dussehra & Durga Puja- Dussehra falling on the last day of Navaratri or Durga puja arrives in the month of October. Dussehra literally means that which takes away ten sins.  This Hindu festival is celebrated all over India to mark the defeat of Ravana by Lord Rama. Dussehra symbolises the triumph of good over evil. The 'Ramlila' - an enactment of the life of Lord Rama, is held during the nine days preceding Dussehra. On the tenth day, larger than life effigies of Ravana, his son and brother - Meghnath and Kumbhakarna - are set alight.

Diwali- The Festival of Lights is one of the biggest festivals of Hindus, celebrated with great enthusiasm and happiness in India. The festival is celebrated for five continuous days but the most important day is the third. It is a festival that symbolizes the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. On this day, homes are decorated, sweets are distributed by everyone and thousands of lamps lit to create a world of fantasy. The festival also symbolizes unity in diversity as every state celebrates it in its own special way.

To know more about the culture and heritage of India, get in touch with any of the travel agents in India and organize a trip to witness the famous festivals, Diwali, Holi, Dussehra, etc. With the help of the travel agents in India, you can plan your travel during the festival season.