Located near the city of Aurangabad in Maharasthra, both World Heritage Sites, the famous Ajanta and Ellora are cave shrines cut out of rock, by hand, and rank amongst some of the most outstanding specimens of ancient Indian architectural heritage. The 34 caves at Ellora and the 29 caves at Ajanta, were remained shrouded in obscurity for over a millennium, till John Smith, a British Army Officer, accidentally stumbled upon them while on a hunting expedition in 1819. The masterpiece of Ellora is the the astonishing Kailasa Temple, dedicated to Shiva is the world’s largest monolithic sculpture, hewn from the rock by 7000 labourers over a 150 year period. The glorious Ajanta caves depict the story of Buddhism, spanning a period from 200 BC to 650 AD. Visit

Spread over 100 acres of land, this mega temple complex, is built of white marble and red sand stone and draws lakhs of tourists from all over the universe. It is a fusion of several stayles of North Indian architecture Rajasthani, Orissan, Gujrati, Mughal and Jain. Estimated to have cost around Rupees 200 crores, it took five years to complete.  Visit

Nestled in the foothills of the mystifying Himalayas and overlooking the Holy river Ganges, Ananda provides the ideal environment for the rejuvenation of the body, mind and soul. The 21,000 square foot spa offers an extensive menu of over 79 body and beauty treatments, integrating the traditional Indian systems of Ayurveda with the more contemporary Western Spa approach. The Spa experience strives to achieve the ultimate harmony between the physical and mental realms of the individual. Fitness and food forms an integral part of rejuvenation and Ananda takes extreme care for the same.  Visit

The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are a veritable Garden of Eden and a naturalist's heaven. The clean environment, roads, greenery as well as unpolluted fresh air attract all nature lovers. The tropical rain forests and waters of Bay of Bengal are the home of a vast collection of plant, animal and marine life. Topographically the islands are hilly in places fringed with coconut palm, covered with tropical jungle and interspersed with flat stretches of crescent shaped beaches. Adventure tourism like g, Island camping, snorkeling, SCUBA diving etc. and other water sports are the real attractions. A marvelous mix of nature's most precious delights, the Andaman & Nicobar Islands are a once in a lifetime holiday experience. Visit

Ayurveda originated in India long back in the pre-vedic period.It meams “ Science of Life”.It is the oldest systems of health care dealing with both the preventive and curative aspects of life in a most comprehensive way and presents a close similarity to the WHO’s concept of health pronounced in the modern era.It has also developed a wide range of therapeutic measures to combat illness. Ayurvedic practitioners teach patients to understand their unique bodily constitutions, and show them how to use diet, massage, herbs and lifestyle adjustments to harmonize body, mind and spirit.

Yoga is a science as well an art of healthy living physically, mentally, morally and spiritually. It’s systematic growth from his animal level to the normalcy, from there to the divinity, ultimately. It can be practiced by those who seek an education on better living and those who wants to have a more meaningful life. It is not a religion; It’s a philosophy of life based on certain psychological facts and it aims at the development of a perfect balance between the body and the mind that permits union with the divine.  Visit

India is perhaps the only country in the world which publishes books in 24 languages. It ranks third in the publication of English books after the USA and the UK. More than 70,000 new titles are published every year out of which 20,000 are in the English language. Indian books have earned worldwide respect and commercial acceptability both for their contents and quality of production. Many Indian books are especially designed to meet the educational requirements of the Afro-Asian and SAARC countries. While offering a glimpse of the multilingual publishing industry in India which has developed substantially in recent years the New Delhi World Book fair and the Kolkata Book Fair serves to establish fruitful communication among publishers, booksellers, book distributors, librarians, professionals, intellectuals and academicians. The Book Fair also offers an opportunity for the exchange of translation/co-publishing/reprint rights.  Visit

This is the most interesting means to explore the great India desert of Thar & are conducted on various circuits and forms an integral part of a tourist's itinerary at Jaisalmer and indeed, there is rarely a tourist to Jaisalmer who does not attempt an outing on camel back. One can closely view the vibrant culture, colourful traditions and their hardships. A typical Camel Safari takes one to the architectural ruins of Lodurva, the oasis at Anasagar, the sand dunes of the Samm and the water source of Moolsagar. One will be overwhelmed by picturesque sights and sounds, colours and fragrances that will struck your mind for long time.  Visit

Capturing the spirit of Rajasthan and ensuring the perfect Rajasthani experience is Chokhi Dhani, a unique Village Resort. Chokhi Dhani literally means a “fine hamlet” i.e. a quintessential village that offers an ideal pastoral experience. Away from the urban life the quaint mud and thatch dwellings in the resort give the right blend of traditions - modern five star amenities in typical ethnic environment.  Visit

Located in Amber 11 km from Jaipur, Rajasthan. It was the old fort of the Kachhwaha clan of Amber, which used to be the capital, till it was moved to Jaipur. The Amber Fort set in picturesque and rugged hills is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. The fort is built with white marble and red sandstone and look even more attractive because of the Maota Lake in the foreground. The best part of this tourist attraction situated on a crafty hill, is the royal elephant ride. The flawless beauty of the Fort can be enjoyed royally with an elephant ride. A trip to Jaipur would be definitely incomplete, without the visit to this imperial Fort of Amber. Visit

37 kms from Agra is built a city predominantly in Red Sandstone and is called Fatehpur Sikri., was built by the Mughal Emperor,. It was Akbar's capital for approximately 12 years. Akbar selected Sikri as the seat of his government believing it to be auspicious for himself. He experimented both with architecture and art and built a city expressing his ideals and vision. Fatehpur Sikri was built during 1571 and 1585.. sToday, Fatehpur Sikri is a deserted, phantom city. But the inner citadel is immaculately preserved. The finest monuments within this area are the Diwan-i-Am, Diwan-i-Khas, Panch Mahal, Buland Darwaza and the tomb of Saint Sheikh Salim Chishti, and the Jama Masjid (one of the largest mosques In India).  Visit

Goa, a tiny emerald land on the west coast of India, is known as "Pearl of the Orient" and a "Tourist Paradise". The magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendours of its temples, churches and old houses have made Goa a firm favourite with travellers around the world. But then, Goa is much more than just beaches and sea. It has a soul which goes deep into unique history, rich culture and some of the prettiest natural scenery that India has to offer. The tourist season in Goa begins in late September and carries on through early March. The weather in these months is usually dry and pleasantly cool. Then the weather gets fairly hot around May and by end of June, Goa receives the full blast of the Indian monsoon with sudden downpours and tropical thunderstorms. However it is also during the monsoon that Goa is probably at its most beautiful, with greenery sprouting all around.  Visit

HAMPI, is a World Heritage Centre and the seat of the famed VIJAYANAGARA empire was the capital of the largest empire in post-mogul India, covering several states. The empire reigned supreme under Krishnadevaraya, the Emperor. The Vijayanagara empire stretched over at least three states - Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh. The destruction of Vijayanagar by marauding Moghul invaders was sudden, shocking and absolute. They reduced the city to ruins amid scenes of savage massacre and horrors beggaring description. Although in ruins today, this capital city once boasted riches known far beyond the shores of India. The ruins of Hampi of the 14th Century lies scattered in about 26 sq. km area, amidst giant boulders and vegetation. Protected by the tempestuous river Tungabhadra in the north and rocky granite ridges on the other three sides, the ruins silently narrate the story of grandeur splendor and fabulous wealth. The splendid remains of palaces and gateways of the broken city tells a tale of men infinite talent and power of creativity together with his capacity for senseless destruction.

Hospet is the main town providing the getaway for Hampi. Most of the ruins are along the road leading from Kamalapura to Hampi. Three kms down the road, on a commanding site, stands the temple of Malyavanta Raghunathaswamy. It is built in the Dravidian style. Strange-looking fishes and marine monsters carved along its outer walls are worth noticing.The Hampi Bazaar, 35 yards wide and nearly 800 yards long was known to be a "very beautiful street with very beautiful houses". Visit

Haridwar located in the foothills of the Himalayas, represents the point where the Ganga reaches the plains. It is an ancient pilgrimage site, held in reverence for centuries. The Chinese pilgrim Hyuen Tsang who visited India in the first millennium CE, describes Haridwar as Mayura, on the eastern banks of the Ganges. Several temples and ashrams dot this town and a visit to Haridwar is like stepping into a totally different world. Haridwar (and Rishikesh) represents the gateway to the Himalayan pilgrimage shrines of Badrinath and Kedarnath. The pilgrimage to the Himalayan shrines begins only when the sun reaches the zodiac sign of Aries. The Ganga Aarti at Hari-ki-Pairi which is celebrated at 6 pm each evening, is a spectacular sight. Offerings of lamps and flowers are made to the river immediately following this ceremony and it is a moving sight to watch hundreds of miniature lamps float along the river. Visit

Ever dreamt of living life like a king, literally? If yes, then there's every reason for you to be thrilled!! Here's an opportunity for you to explore the grand Havelis and Palaces in India, which formed the residence of the royal lineage several years back. These palaces have led to the existence of the grand Heritage Hotels all over India.The large Palaces, Forts & Havelis - once the residences of the Maharajas & Rajas have been converted into Indian Heritage Hotels. From the dramatic hilltop fortifications, to the isolated and often unapproachable hunting pavilions - these Palaces & Forts have continued to attract tourists for years now. Visit

Houseboats also called as 'kettuvallam' has gained immense popularity in the backwaters of Kerala and offers the opportunity of lifetime to explore the picturesque splendor of Kerala by traversing its pristine waters. This boat cruise sojourns you through the narrow water lanes displaying the panorama of simple village life. Enjoy the sights of green paddy fields swinging in the cool air, traditional fish farms and famed Chinese fishing nets. Watch the village folk making the golden fiber called coir from coconut husk and transform it into various coir products. Enjoy the fresh coconut water and its creamy layers. Kerala backwaters are also a paradise to its aerial population. Alleppey is the gateway to the interior waterways of Kerala. Visit

Kathakali is the classical dance-drama of Kerala, South India, which dates from the 17th century and is rooted in Hindu mythology. Kathakali has a unique combination of literature, music, painting, acting and dance. 'Katha' means story and 'Kali' means dance. In Kathakali dance-drama, communication is made effective through the remarkable use of gestures and mudras. This also lends Kathakali its universal appeal. People of varied tastes all over the world appreciate and admire the beauty of this distinguished art. Another distinct feature of Kathakali is its elaborate costume and make-up. It is a magical sight to watch Kathakali artistes performing in their traditional attire. Their larger than life form transport the audience to a make believe wonderland. It takes about 8-10 painstaking hours to carry out the elaborate Aharya, (the make-up) in all its detail. Artistes are trained to do the make-up on their own. Visit

Located on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra River in the far North East of India, Assam, Kaziranga National Park covers an area of approximately 430-sq-kms with its swamps and tall thickets of elephant grass making it the ideal habitat for the Indian One-Horned Rhino. Due to limitless poaching of this prehistoric survivor, the Kaziranga National Park was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1940. Beside of course the great one horned Indian Rhino, the other major wild attractions include a large population of Indian Elephants, Indian Bison, Swamp Deer or Barasingha, Hog Deer, Sloth Bears, Tigers, Leopard Cats, Jungle Cats, Otters, Hog Badgers, Capped Langurs, Hoolock Gibbons, Wild Boar, Jackal, Wild Buffalo, Pythons, Monitor Lizards, etc. Kaziranga National Park is a birding paradise; the grasslands are a raptor country that can be seen on safari makes a remarkable experience. Kaziranga's visiting season is from mid-November to early April months. Visit

Khajuraho Dance Festival is one of those festivals of India that all dance lovers eagerly wait for. The 7-day Festival, which is supposed to take place from 25th February to 2nd March every year from 2002 to 2009, highlights the richness of the Indian classical dance. It takes place at the open-air auditorium in front of the Chitragupta Temple dedicated to the Sun God and the Vishwanatha Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated in the Western Group of temples, which is the largest, and well maintained. This weeklong festival has already become legendary with its outlandish classical dance performances presented in a dreamlike setting of splendidly illuminated temples. Some of the best artists and performers that have marked themselves in their fields come from the various states of India to participate in the festival. Recently, modern Indian dances have also found their place. Visit

A picture perfect tropical beach; a traditional fishing village providing fresh fish, fruits and toddy (coconut beer). Kovalam was brought to the public eye by the Maharaja of Travancore. Over the past three decades, the place has been well developed, and now figures prominently on the world tourism map. Kovalam is just 16 kms away from Trivandrum and is known as the "Paradise of the South. Its scenic beauty and serenity is supplemented by the availability of excellent accommodation Ayurvedic massage parlours, yoga centers and water sport facilities, makes Kovalam a popular haven for tourists from all over the globe. Visit

Used to be called 'Western Tibet' or 'Little Tibet' has a peculiar fascination for western tourists. The largest of the 10 provinces of Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh is bordered by the Karakoram chain of mountains in the north and the Himalayas in the south. Ladakh, the land of toothed peaks and barren landscape is at once appealing and awe-inspiring. Hidden behind this harsh and forbidding façade is an ancient civilization and captivating people. With its unmoved character and spell-binding natural beauty Ladakh attracts the more intense and adventurous of travelers. The overwhelming wilderness and magic can only belong to this great land of towering mountains and Buddhist simplicity. Ladakh is cold and dry. Described as the 'roof of the world', Ladakh, where people live in heights ranging from 2,500m to 4,500m above the sea level is no destination for people with weak hearts. The pink granite of the sheer mountains, many of them snow-capped, contrasting with the deep blue sky, holds an exotic allure for the tourist. A visit to this Shangri-la is definitely a most unforgettable experience of one's life time. Visit

Globally renown for its shore temples, Mahabalipuram was the second capital of the Pallava kings of Kanchipuram. 58 kilometres from Madras on the Bay of Bengal, this tiny sea - side village of Mahabalipuram, is set in a boulder - strewn landscape. Tourists are drawn to this place by its miles of unspoiled beach and rock-cut art. The sculpture, here, is particularly interesting because it shows scenes of day-to- day life, in contrast with the rest of the state of Tamil Nadu, where the carvings generally depict gods and goddesses. Kanchipuram 75 kms from Chennai, is one of the holy places in Tamil Nadu is. known for more number of temples. It is one of the holy places of Hindus and it is also called as Kanchi.Kanchi is famous for Silk. Kanchipuram is also known all over the world for the “Kanjeevaram” silk saris, one of the finest silk saris in the country. The climate of Kanchipuram is tropical with an almost uniform temperature throughout the year. Visit

Nestled in the foothills of the Western Himalayas, Mcleod Ganj is the upper area of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. It’s the home of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama, and the Tibetan Government in Exile. It is truly cosmopolitan, urbane, sophisticated, even avant garde a global town, if ever there was one. McLeod Ganj is an interesting synthesis of an idyllic hill station and a city. While its environs and general feel are those of a picturesque retreat, it has a cultural and social life throbbing with activity. Visit

Mother Teresa made Kolkata her home and opened several homes, including one for those who were old and dying and the other for destitute children. She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. In recognition of her work, the Indian government accorded her a State funeral after her death 10 years ago on September 5. She was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour, in 1980. In 1950, she founded the Missionaries of Charity, her own order. The group is still housed in the same four-story building that Calcutta residents know as Mother House at AJC Bose Raod. When she died on Sept. 5, 1997 at 87, the Missionaries of Charity had nearly 4,000 nuns and ran roughly 600 orphanages, soup kitchens, homeless shelters and clinics around the world. Also visit, Nirmal Hriday, or ''Pure Heart,'' the first of the many clinics that Mother Teresa opened in Calcutta's ramshackle neighborhoods during her nearly seven decades in India. Visit

Built since 1464 AD, and restored in 1980s, Neemrana Fort-Palace is India's oldest heritage resort. It is also Rajasthan's closest palace from New Delhi, situated at 122 kms. on the Delhi-Jaipur highway- only 100 kms from Delhi's international airport. Sited on a majestic plateau, concealed in a horseshoe formation of the billion year old Aravalli ranges, Neemrana became the third capital of the descendants of Prithviraj Chauhan III, who was killed in battle by Mohammad Ghori in 1192 AD. This picturesque site was chosen by Raja Rajdeo and Neemrana derived its name from a brave local chieftain Nimola Meo, who when defeated by the Chauhans, pleaded that his name be given to his lost kingdom. From 1986, the ruins of this Fort-Palace have been sensitively restored and reconstructed. The rooms are furnished with an eclectic mix of traditional Indian and colonial furniture, antiques and object art. Most rooms have private balconies or terraces. Visit

The magical lure of Sikkim has always been attracting people all over the world. Its legendry mountains, landscape that defy imagination, all culminates into a masterpiece of the Creator.

Chungthang, 95 kms is situated on the way to Yumthang, is a small town surrounded by high mountains that seem to touch the sky. It lies on the confluence of two hilly rivers Lachen and Lachung Chu and the starting point of river .It is a restricted area and special permits are required.

At 24 kms from Lachung lies Yumthang, rightfully called the Valley of Flowers as in Flowering season there blossoms vivid colours of variety of Rhododendrons, chimals and blue poppies. Yumthang is located on a flat valley and is near the tree line, the surrounding mountains seems to kiss the heavens. The journey from Lachung to Yumthang has a very picturesque landscape and is lined with Rhododendrons & 108 other types of Orchids which bloom in different colours from April to May. "Come as a visitor for a life-time experience." April and May promises colourful flowers, where as November end to March usually sees snows.

Chopta Valley has breathtaking alpine scenery with lofty snow capped peaks, meandering rivers and alpine flowers that bloom in June-July. Visit

Pushkar is one of the sacred places for the Hindus, with 400 temples of which the most important is dedicated to Lord Brahma - the creator of the universe. Fifty-two ghats bind the lake. During the days of the fair, the otherwise tranquil lake is engulfed with religious fervor. Thousands of devotees collect to take a dip, sadhus descend from the Himalayas and people pray for salvation to the sound of verses from the Holy Scriptures, which fill the air.Camels are bought and sold during the Pushkar fair. Either you hire a camel or you walk. In this aspect, it is truly a rural bazaar. An interesting part of the Pushkar Fair is the mass trading of camels. Of course, cattle and other livestock are also traded, but it's camels that hold center stage at Pushkar making this world's largest camel fair. The dates for Pushkar Fair is between November 10th to 13th 2008. Visit

January 26, 1950 is one of the most important days in Indian history as it was on this day that the Constitution of India came into force and India became a truly sovereign state, a totally republican nation. The country finally realized the dream of Mahatma Gandhi and the numerous freedom fighters who, fought for and sacrificed their lives for Independence. This auspicious day was decreed a national holiday and has been recognized and celebrated as the Republic Day of India, ever since. To mark the importance of this occasion, every year a grand parade is held in the capital, from the Rajghat, along the Vijaypath. The different regiments of the Army, the Navy and the Air force march past in all their finery and official decorations. The President of India takes salute of the contingents of Armed Forces. The crème of N.C.C cadets, selected from all over the country participate in this event, as do school children from various schools in the capital. The beginning of the occasion is always a solemn reminder of the sacrifice of the martyrs who died for the country in the freedom movement and the succeeding wars. Then, the President awards the medals of bravery to officers from the armed. Visit

Rhotang Pass in Himachal Pradesh is a high mountain pass positioned on the Manali-Keylong road. The Pass connects the beautiful Kullu Valley with the Lahul and Spiti valleys of the state. Placed at an altitude of 13,051 feet above sea level, it provides mesmerizing views of the imposing mountains and the glaciers. The Pass remains open only from June to September. Come on a tour to Rhotang Pass, and you will have an unforgettable experience exploring this mountain pass. The best way to reach is either board the super fast Shatabdi express to Chandigarh, else drive by road to Delhi through National Highway-21. Visit

The winner of the award for the best Heritage hotel in the country, for 5 consecutive years, Samode Palace is one of India's most charming and romantic hotels. It offers a quiet, elegant and luxurious atmosphere. Considered India's finest hotel for its consummate standards of modern hospitality, accommodation, services, cuisine and amenities. Visit

These shows used recorded narrations along with imaginative use of music, sound and light effects – creating a dramatic history of the forts. Some of the most popular are the Sound & Light show at Red Fort, Victoria Memorial at Kolkata, Agra Fort at Agra, Golcanda & Chandragiri Fort at Hydearbad. Visit

This is a twin temple. The temple in the southern side is dedicated to Sri Meenakshi the consort of lord Sundareswarar (Shiva) and the other to lord Sundareswarar. This is one of the biggest temple complexes of India. The temple is about 258 meters in length and about 241.4 meters in breadth. Madurai Meenakshiamman kovil was built by Kulasekara Pandya, but the entire credit for making the temple as splendid as it is today goes to the Nayaks. According to Hindu mythology, Meenakshi was a princess who was born with three breasts, fish-shaped eyes and fishy smell. According to the story, after seeking advice from holy men, she was told that the extra breast would disappear when she met her future husband. She was also told that the fish-like qualities would transform into beauty. This duly happened when she met the god Shiva, whom she married 8 days later in Madurai, the husband taking on the form of Lord Sundareshwara. The Meenakshi temple in south India is named after her. Visit

Undoubtedly, the most popular and sought after tourist destination, the Taj Mahal or "the Crown Palace", is a beautifully crafted white marble monument of India, a memento of love that was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Taj Mahal stands in the city of Agra, on the banks of the Yamuna River. In AD 1628, Khurram became king after a bloody battle of succession: he took the name Shahjahan or “King of the World” and showered his beloved begum with the highest titles. She became Mumtaz Mahal, the exalted of the palace and Mumtaz-ul-Zamani, the exalted of the Age. But Mumtaz Mahal was not destined to be queen for long. In 1631, Shahjahan went on an expedition to the south and, as always, Mumtaz Mahal accompanied him. But she died in childbirth at Burhanpur. When Mumtaz Mahal died, she was just 39 years old. Shahjahan was inconsolable and contemporary chronicles tell of the royal court mourning for two years. there was no music, no feasting, and no celebration of any kind. Shahjahan, who was a passionate builder, now decided to erect a memorial to his queen in pristine marble that the world would never forget. The site was also chosen because it was located on a bend in the river, and so could be seen from Shahjahan’s personal palace in Agra Fort, further upstream. Work on the mausoleum began in 1633 and 20,000 workers laboured for 17 years to build it. Visit

Tree Houses are houses like structures built on top the trees. The raw materials that is used for constructing these houses are all of Eco-friendly. Tree houses are modified versions of "Erumadam", usually used by the tribals in order to escape from the attacks of wild animals. They are incorporated with all the facilities you are getting in your home. A complete home and homestays over 80 feet height, with all natural and fresh air and water will simply renovate you. Access to the Tree House (between 20 to 80 feets above from the ground level) by an indigenous cane lift. Visit

Varanasi is one of the oldest living cities in the world. It probably derives from the two rivers that flank the city, the Varana to the north and the Asi to the south.. Many still use the anglicized forms of Banaras or Benares, while pilgrims refer to Kash, first used three thousand years ago to describe the kingdom and the city outside which the Buddha preached his first sermon; the "City of Light" is also called Kashika, "the shining one", referring to the light of Shiva. Varanasi's prominence in Hindu mythology is virtually unrivaled. For the devout Hindu the city has always had a special place, besides being a pilgrimage centre,it is considered especially auspicious to die here, ensuring an instant route to heaven. A city where the past and present, eternity and continuity coexist. It is situated on the west bank of the holiest of all Indian rivers, the Ganga or Ganges. The relationship between the sacred river and the city is the essence of Varanasi - 'the land of sacred light'. The Ganga is believed to have flown from heaven to wash away the worldly sins of the human race of mortal's .The life and activities in the city centre around the holy river. Life on the banks of the Ganga begins before dawn when thousands of pilgrims - men, women and children - come down to the river to wait for the rising sun when immersion in the sacred river will cleanse them of their sufferings and wash their sins away.

Along the water's edge, there are the burning ghats. The most sacred one is Manikarnika, associated with Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva's wife. Banaras has always been associated with philosophy and wisdom. A place of learning for many years, the Banaras Hindu University carries on this tradition. Do not miss the spectacular evening aarti on the banks of the river. Visit