Holidays

Travelling to India? The Ideal Way to Explore Panoramic India

Travelling to India? The Ideal Way to Explore Panoramic India
Last Updated: July 25, 2019

“Traditions, Culture, Religion, Hospitality, Spirituality, Architecture, and Bio Diversity are just a few adjectives to describe the enchanting nation – India.”

India has always fascinated and mesmerized everyone with its assortment of cultures, traditions, religions and never ending awe-inspiring landscapes. The land of spices definitely rejuvenates the lives of the individuals who visit this mesmerizing nation. However, the difficult part has always been choosing the perfect location in a land that is full of surprises and filled with warm people. No matter where you travel, you will be always welcomed with open heart as this is a country where the guests are treated as Gods.

Here is a complete guide about some popular tours from which you can hand pick your itinerary for exploring the Land of Gods:

1. Golden Triangle Circuit

The Golden Triangle Circuit is one of the most tourist flooded destinations of India. These include the three most beautiful cities – The National Capital-Delhi, The City of Taj-Agra and The Pink City-Jaipur – situated approximately 200-250 kilometers from each other. From posh night clubs to the medieval temples, these cities are stacked with everything that one could ever desire while travelling to India.

Delhi – The National Capital

red-fort-delhi

Delhi is known for its lip-smacking street food, shopping and architecture. It is the biggest metropolitan region of India and embraces many forts with medieval and colonial architecture. Renowned as the shopper’s paradise, it is a one place in the world you can put your haggling skills to an extreme test. The must visit sites are Red Fort, Akshardham Temple, Lotus Temple, Raj Ghat, India Gate, Qutub Minar and Humayun’s Tomb. For shopping and dining, head to Lajpat Nagar, Connaught Place, Janpath, Sarojini Market, Chandni Chowk and the list goes on, but the marvels of the city just don’t come to a halt.

Agra – The City of Taj

taj-mahal

Agra is the second destination of the golden triangle circuit. It was one of the most prominent kingdoms of the Mughal Empire. The city is renowned worldwide for the Taj Mahal – symbol of love and bewitching jewelry designs. Agra is true relish for the eyes. Apart from Taj, one can also visit Fatehpur Sikri, Agra Fort, Jama Masjid. For shopping and dining a visit to the Sadar Bazar and Kinari Bazar is necessary.

Jaipur – The Pink City

city-palace-jaipur

It is a city where still the King resides and works for the prosperity of his people. It is the capital of Rajasthan, and a live example of the beautiful Rajputana, Mughal and European architecture. Jaipur is one place where you can get or feel the perfect essence of royalty. City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Amer Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Birla Temple and so on are some of the prominent places to visit in the city. One could treat their taste buds with the sumptuous cuisines being served in the hotels or palaces that have been now converted into the resorts. For shopping one could visit Johari and Bapu Bazaar.

The golden triangle tour is one package or route that you must take on your first tour to India as it will provide you the perfect summary of India as a nation, its culture and traditions, which are embraced by millions and followed by zillions.

2. Yoga & Ayurveda in Rishikesh

yoga

“sarve bhavantu sukhinah ~ sarve santu niramayah sarve bhadrani pasyantu ~ ma kaschid duhkhabhag bhavet”

Meaning – May all be happy, receive prosperity and that they remain disease free and experience no sorrow. If one remains disease free he/she prospers in life. Prosperity brings joy and happiness. It makes sure that the sorrows don’t touch you.

Once you enter Rishikesh, you will be enlightened with this ’Shlok’ from the Vedas and the Upanishads. In order to enjoy a disease free life, one must try to live life in the healthiest manner possible, which means a balanced diet, exercise and of course few prayers that remind you that there is a heavenly body residing above all.

Rishikesh is believed to be the birthplace of yoga. Yoga and ayurveda go hand in hand. Nestled in Uttarakhand, surrounded by the Shivalik Himalayas on three sides, Rishikesh is a popular spiritual destination of the North India. Sprinkled with many ashrams throughout the valley, one can relax and experience the age old unique medicinal treatment techniques.

One can witness many saints and sages practicing yoga on the river banks of the holy Ganga River. These saints do not hesitate to teach you the art of Yoga; just willing heart to learn is required.

There are many Ayuskama, Panchakarma, Massage centers that are sure to revitalize the lost sparks of your life. Your entire body is cleansed inside out and you will certainly feel the impurities of your body gradually being removed and a new cleansed aura that vouches for a healthy life could be felt.

Rishikesh meaning the land of Rishis , is a must visit destination on your India visit, as it is the perfect place to gain knowledge about the human body detoxification and rejuvenation techniques.

3. Top Sanctuaries & National Parks in India for Wildlife Holidays

India is a land of varied ethnic, cultural and geographical diversity. With the change of topography, one can surely expect multitudes of sundry flora and fauna. There are many wildlife national Parks and sanctuaries, but the problem remains, which ones are the best and you should visit. Here is a list of the top wildlife sanctuaries and national parks that you must visit while you travel to India.

Ranthambore National Park

ranthambore-national-park

Located in Rajasthan, it is a park where sighting tiger is not a difficult task. It has been praised all over the world for its miraculous efforts under the Project Tiger to sustain and flourish tiger population in India. Ranthambore encapsulates Ranthambore Fort and much prolific medieval architecture that makes it a fantasy land for the tourists. The park is populated with around 40 species of mammals, 300+ species of birds, 35+ species of reptiles, and more than 300 varieties of trees, herbs and shrubs.

Ranthambore is also a paradise for the butterfly enthusiasts as there are more than 50 species of butterflies that could be seen decorating the premises. The park is well connected by the road, trains and flights.

Corbett National Park

corbett-national-park

Jim Corbett National Park, best known as the tiger’s paradise, is India’s first national park for initiating the Project Tiger that got huge success in the country. Corbett is opened for the visitors from the months of November to June. Situated in the Nainital District of Uttarakhand, its assorted topography is highly complimented by the plush wildlife that resides here.

There are 500+ species of birds, 50+ species of mammals, many species of reptiles as well. Being nestled in the vicinity of the Himalayas, there are many adjoining hill stations that one could visit. There are many luxurious accommodations also available in and around the national park.

Bandhavgarh National Park

bandhavgarh-national-park

Bandhavgarh National Park is situated in the environs of the Vindhya hills of Madhya Pradesh. There are forts, waterfalls, museums and an aerial view points that make sure you have the feel of the reason why it was made a National Park. It has many mystical and historic legends that add to its charm.

It has the maximum density of the Tigers per square kilometer, which makes spotting the majestic animal easy and fun. The park is also a celebrated birding point in India with more than 250 species of birds migrating into here from every corner of the world. Apart from Tigers, Leopards, Four Horned Antelopes, Wild Boar and many more wild animals could be spotted. This is the only national park where you could also spot the White Tigers.

Kaziranga National Park

kaziranga-national-park

Kaziranga single handedly dominates the wildlife conservation scenario of India. The park is a host to two-thirds of the Great One Horned Rhino population of the world and even boasts of a high tiger density as well. The park is also the home to the other animals such as the Elephants, Wild Water Buffalos and Swamp Deer. Being in the surrounding area of bio-diversity rich hotspot of the Eastern Himalayas, encapsulating major rivers of East India including Brahmaputra, and many small water bodies with its evergreen forests, grasslands – the park got its name engraved as the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It has over 50 species of mammals and approximately 25 species of reptiles. Kaziranga is a birding paradise with over 500 species of birds can be seen flocking here. It is well connected by all the three modes of transportation (road, train and flight) with NH-37 considered as the best way to commence your journey to Kaziranga.

Kanha National Park

kanha-national-park

On your visit to Kanha, you will definitely feel nostalgic about your childhood; déjà-vu prevails as you glance over the branches, to spot Mowgli in action. Yes it was Kanha’s magnificent topography that inspired Rudyard Kipling to write “The Jungle Book”.

Covering an area of above 1000 sq km in Madhya Pradesh, Kanha National Park is a home to over 20 species of mammals with its proud jewels being the Barasingha and the Tiger. It is also an abode of over 200 species of birds. The park is well connected to all the prime cities in its vicinity through rail, road and air.

Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary

gir-national-park

Gir gives you the opportunity to revisit the times when the Humans and Lions lived together in the wild. The only home to the Asiatic Lions; Gir, provides solace to over 35 species of mammals, 35+ species of reptiles and over 300 species of birds.

The topography comprises of undulating hills, plateaus and valleys. With the catchments of seven perennial rivers, the Gir National Park definitely provides maximum chances of spotting exotic wildlife. Opened for the visitors from November to May, it is well connected by all the three modes of transportation.

One could pamper his or her taste buds with the relishes of Gujarati cuisine, and witness the old Gujarati traditions.

If you ever come across a question stating what to see in India apart from monuments and forts, these national parks and sanctuaries are your answer.

4. The Hill Stations

With over 20 mountain ranges covering the Indian terrain, hand picking the best one is a bit of problem. Many hill stations have successfully thrived and protected traditions, culture and architecture, which is impossible to find anywhere in the world. Let’s take you to an unwinding journey to the best hill stations of India.

Kullu

kullu-manali

Frequently referred to as Kullu Valley, it has many hill stations in its proximity. It is dotted with several orchids, coniferous trees and snow-clad peaks. The place offers a lot of trekking trails to the high altitude villages of Malana, Rasol, Kheer Ganga. It is a nature enthusiast’s paradise.

kullu

Kullu is renowned as the God’s Valley, with Kullu Dussherra being the biggest festival that is celebrated over a period of more than a week. The whole terrain is flooded with many domestic and international tourists. Kasol, Malana and Kheer Ganaga being the most visited areas in the region.

The confluence of Parvati River and the scenic backdrop provides a great peace of mind.

Shimla

shimla

The presence of the colonial architecture amidst the hills provides a delight to the eyes. Dotted with all the possible trophies of nature that one could expect from a hill station, Shimla is for sure one of the most beautiful hill stations to visit in india.

It was its bewitching natural beauty that made it the summer capital of the Colonial India. The famous toy train ride in Shimla is one activity that cannot be missed. The presence of a Golf Course marks for unforgettable vista.

‘Natti’ a local form of dance, surely makes every tourist to indulge with the jubilant locals. The best time to visit here is from November to June. The major attractions of this Hill station are the Jakhu Temple, St. Mary’s Church, Dorje Drag Monastery and many more.

Manali

manali

Referred as the prime honeymoon destination for the Indians, Manali is thronged by the tourists all round the year. The place is sprinkled with colorful hand gliders soaring above your heads as it is the most magnificent hand gliding area in India.

Situated at an altitude of above 2000m, Manali is the hub for the motorcycle enthusiasts as the famous journey to Leh commences from here. It provides ultimate thrill and excitement for both the bikers and nature lovers.

Manali is a heaven for the adventure freaks, and is assorted with many waterfalls, hot water springs and mythological temples. Providing a base camp for many adjoining peaks, Manali is the perfect getaway to the nature’s lap.

Munnar

munnar-hills

Ever wondered where those exuberant tea garden wallpapers were clicked? Well, Munnar is your answer. It is blessed with such an unrealistic beauty that often makes tear roll from your eyes, thanking the almighty for such a wonderful life and spectacular vistas that could only be dreamt.

The morning is all dominated with dew drops, with the mystical hue of the sunrise orange disappearing into the white and blue of the sky. While the evening gets misty and foggy embracing the beautiful night with twinkling stars and rays of moon light felt like never before.

Munnar, the best hill station of Kerala, has more than 40 tourist attractions comprising of lakes, waterfalls, national parks and sanctuaries. The best tourist activity you could experience is getting acquainted with the strangers sipping the perfect brew from the tea gardens.

Nainital

nainital-tour

Glaring at the Lake District of India with the background score of the bells of the Naina Devi Temple is enough to tremble out chaos of one’s mind and soul. Known for the tranquility and solace it provides, Nainital is flocked by the visitors from various geographical locations of the world.

The tourists can enjoy various activities such as the boating, hand gliding, and mountain trekking. The Church of St. John, Naina Devi Temple, Naina Peak, and Eco Cave Garden are some of the tourist attractions to visit.

Nanital is also well connected by the road, rail and flights, with many adjoining hill stations and villages to wander.

Mussoorie

mussoorrie

Traversing across the spell bound hair-pin bends amidst the road dotted with the Pine and Sal trees; one is sure about the vista that will be offered on reaching Mussoorie. The bewitching grandeur of the Himalayan peaks provides the picture perfect memories.

The hill station is dotted with Bhatta Falls, Campty Falls and Shikhar Falls en route to Dehradun that provide the necessary rejuvenation of body and soul. Glancing over the Doon Valley at night, it seems as if a shimmery gold carpet is spread for you to walk.

Mussoorie renowned as the ‘Queen of Hills’; is surely amongst those place where the footprints of Colonial architecture have yet not faded.

Ooty

ooty-hill-station

Ooty is one hill station that is known for its mixture of green and blue texture of hills. The entire place is dotted with terraced tea plantation, orchids of Plum and Peaches.

The hill station provides the best summer retreat for the people. Along with the varied architecture surprises, it bleeds blue because of the surrounding Nilgiri Hills. It has many lakes and temples that are sure to revive spirituality in one’s life. A trip to Ooty will certainly refresh your body and soul.

A visit to any of these hill stations will make a perfect holiday in India.

5. Important Pilgrimage Centers in India

Any talk or description of India is incomplete without mentioning the religions and the pilgrimage centers that have cosseted the traditions and cultures of the various ethnic groups of India. Apart from Hinduism, which has dominated the holiness of India; Sikhism, Jainism and Buddhism are the other religions that have born and flourished in India. Each religion has its own particular pilgrimage center that holds high reputation. Some of the most pious pilgrimage centers of India that must be visited on a vacation trip are enlisted below.

Varanasi

varanasi2

“Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together.” – Mark Twain

Known as Banaras, Kashi and Benaras – Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world, and the oldest in India. According to the prominent Hindu legends, it is believed that the Lord Shiva built this city. Varanasi is the ‘Religious Capital of India’ and the holiest city in Hinduism and Jainism. Buddha’s first summon was delivered near Varanasi in Sarnath.

The morning and the evening of the Varanasi are mostly spent on the river banks of Ganga (which is believed to carry the elixir of life), saints, sages and pilgrims perform rituals and take a dip in the Holy River.

The city is home to many ashrams that provide solace to the widows and senior citizens who have dedicated their lives in preaching the almighty to find the salvation from the circle of life and death.

Varanasi is also the cultural capital of India. Tulsidas, the author of Ram Charitra Manas andPrem Chand ever-famous Novelist are believed to have been born and brought up in this holy place. Not only these saints but Shehnai Maestro Ustad Bismillah Khan and Pandit Ravi Shankar the internationally celebrated Sitar Player are the sons of this sacred city.

Hardwar-Rishikesh

haridwar

Hardwar also pronounced as Haridwar – meaning Gateway (dwar) to God (hari) is one of the seven holiest cities of Hinduism and located in the mystic Uttarakhand. It is a place where the auspicious Kumbh Mela is held every 12 years. During Kumbh over a million pilgrims take a dip in the Holy Ganga River to seek the blessings of the God.

The glories of Haridwar are its temples, considered to be centuries old and the Pandas – the Hindu Brahmin Pandits – who are believed to store the information regarding the family generation of the people of India.

The most mesmerizing experience of the time spent in Haridwar is witnessing the evening prayers on the Ghats (river banks); where the priests using flaming lamps recite the sacred Mantras and the devotees sync the hymns together enlightening their mind and soul.

Rishikesh is a valley, which is just 20 km ahead of Haridwar and it is the gateway to the famous Char Dham Yatra. It is also renowned as the birth place of yoga and offers many temple and ashrams for detoxification of body and soul using the century old methods of ayurveda.

A visit to Haridwar is always complimented by a visit to Rishikesh as these both are one of the holiest places in India and hold a very high stature for every Hindu in the country.

Vrindavan-Mathura

vrindavan

In Hindu culture embracing love and spirituality has been a prominent thing. Mathura the birthplace of Lord Krishna is surely one place where you will feel the trance of love engulfing you. It is believed that counting dust particles in India is easy than keeping track of the entire pilgrim points in Mathura.

Vrindavan, a tiny hamlet 15 – 20 km from Mathura is the place where Lord Krishna spent his childhood. Priests could be seen chanting the legends of Lord Krishna’s childhood where he would tease steal butter and save people from perils – these innocent tales will take you in a world that is so divine.

It is also a pilgrimage site highly preached by every sect of the Hindus. One thing is for sure any person who once visits Vrindavan and Mathura, gets his tongue acquainted to the greeting by saying “Radhe Radhe”.

Bodh Gaya

bodhgaya

The town of Bodh Gaya is the place where Lord Buddha received enlightenment and the religion of Buddhism strived. It is considered as the most blessed town in Buddhism fate.

King Siddhartha Gautama who gave up his riches and power, meditated under a Fig Tree in Bodh Gaya for three days and nights, until he got enlightenment and got the name Gautama Buddha. He imparted his knowledge to his followers.

King Ashoka constructed Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya and in its premises the pious Mahabodhi tree still stands tall telling the tales of the Lord.

Golden Temple

golden-temple

Golden Temple also known as Harmandir Sahib and Darbar Sahib gets its English name due to the layers of gold that abide the walls, ceiling and the dorm of the temple. It is a hallowed place for Sikhism, but its gates are open to the followers of every religion.

It was built by the sixth Sikh guru in the city of Amritsar, Guru Arjan who believed there is a need for place where every religion devotee could sit together and pray to their God. The four gates that are the entrance to the temple are meant only for the same reason.

A water tank surrounds the main shrine, it is believed to contain ‘Amrit’ (elixir of life), and devotees bathe before indulging in their prayers.

Vaishno Devi Temple

vaishno-mata-temple

Residing in the cave of the folds of three mountains of Trikoot is the shrine of Vaishno Mata. It is strongly believed that the journey of the Shrine only commences when the Mata (Goddess Vaishno) calls her devotee. It is also said that the devotees who make the journey with a clean heart often get their desires fulfilled.

Moonh Maangi Muradein Poori Karne Wali Mata

Meaning – the Mother who fulfils whatever her Children wishes for.

There are many legends assorted to the shrine, but all of them impart the same theme that if a man has faith, then there is nothing that could stop him from achieving his goals. The shrine is believed to provide strength to overcome the hurdles of life.

6. Following are best options for Luxury Holidays in India

Luxury Train Holidays

palace-on-wheel

In a country where luxury dominates everything from temples to the lifestyle, it is not possible that the mode of transportation will remain untouched. India has a largest railway network in the world and a need of few luxury trains were felt to compete with the other railway networks of the world and India travel & tourism department made it happen.

It all started in colonial eras, when the Rajas and Nizams would not set foot on the train coaches, which were boarded by the civilians. They needed to flaunt their riches; hence special coaches stacked with every luxury were made for them, which were only meant for the particular Raja and his family members.

There are total of 8 luxury trains in India: Palace on Wheels, Maharaja Express, Heritage on Wheels, Golden Chariot, Deccan Odyssey, The Indian Maharaja, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels and Mahaparinirvana Express.

The name of these trains were given according to the luxury encapsulated and route traversed. All these trains cover the major princely and religious places. .The commuters could spend the day sightseeing, while having relishing lip-smacking sumptuous cuisines.

These trains will thrill and take you back to the time where luxury was everything. With exciting tour packages and locations, these trains are must ride once in a lifetime. . The pompous interiors and world class facilities will make it hard for you to descent from the train.

Beach Tours

With the Tropic of Cancer passing through India, one can be assured that the weather of the country is very heterogeneous. With varied topography that determines the climatic seasons, it is very confusing to determine what the best time to visit India? But still, the tourists have voted winters to be most refreshing, as it provides consolation from the otherwise hot humid weather. The best thing one could do in winters is take a tour of the beaches of India.

Goa

baga-beach

Welcome to the Capital da fiesta of India. Apart from being the smallest state in India, Goa is very rich in its diversity of culture, architecture and cuisines. Home to the liquor giant Vijay Malaya, one could guess the extreme limits of the parties that occur. Whenever one mentions Goa, its sandy beaches start revolving right in front of the eyes. The state accounts for some of the most beautiful beaches of Asia. Some of the famous beaches are as follows:-

Mandrem & Morgim

Both these beaches are amongst the magnificent beaches of North Goa and even counts as one of the splendid beaches of Asia. Less crowded, these white sandy beaches are perfect for honeymooner’s who desire to spend a romantic time without being distracted. The visitors can laze and sun bath on these beaches or swim to refresh their body.

Baga & Calingute

These are famous commercial beaches of Goa. While the tourists can sip awesome cocktails at Tito and Mambo, they can even stretch and laze on Calingute. Baga is renowned for the exciting water sport activities and never ending parties.

Anjuna Beach

Dotted with shacks, it was once hippie’s sanctuary during 60’s. Although hippies are found no more, but there trends are still been followed out here. Renowned worldwide for its psychedelic trance and head phones parties, Anjuna’s flea market is a shopper’s paradise.

The 103 km coast line of the state is daunted with many beaches and Anjuna beach is one of the must visit beaches in Goa. Apart from Anjuna, there are other beaches such as the Vagator, Arambol, Chapora, Candolim and lots more that the tourists can consider visiting for spending mesmerizing holidays.

Maharashtra

Assorted with more than 70 beaches, Maharashtra beaches dominate the west coast of India. From commercial to the secluded beaches, the state has them all. Some of the beaches have even served as the naval base during the India war of Independence.

While Juhu Beach and Marine Drive of Mumbai are ranked amongst the posh beaches of India, Vijaydurg Sindhudurg beach is known for its extensive use as a naval base during the pre-independence period.

Murud Janjira Beach and Ganpatipule Beach are known as the prime pilgrimage spots in Maharashtra.

Kerala

cultural-kerala

Kerala often referred to as God’s own country, has some of the most ornamental beaches of India. Apart from being the hub of ayurveda, the state offers best relaxation moments. The well flanked rows of coconut trees, adds to the vista that is impossible to find anywhere else in the world. What makes the beaches so special is the unsettling hue that transforms as sunrises and sunsets – from sultry orange to glorious pearl white and monochrome grey at night.

The gold colored and crescent shaped Kovalam Beach is the most beautiful beach of Kerala. The unique feature of the beach is the cold breeze that doesn’t stop blowing all round the year. The rock-strewn Varkala Beach is an important Hindu pilgrimage centre. Sree Janardhana Swamy temple, which dates back around two decades, is a famous attraction.

The art of Theyyam and some of the famous Kerala’s folk music could be seen in Payyambalam beach. It is a very silent beach and often people could be noticed meditating over here.

Karnataka

There is a lot more than IT and infrastructure in Karnataka. Due to the popularity of the beaches in neighboring states, Karnataka beaches have maintained their timeless picturesque panorama and ensured their beaches are amongst the cleanest beaches of the world.

Maravanthe Beach is the most pristine beach of Karnataka. Known for the crystalline blue water (reflection of clear sky), it is nothing less in comparison to Phuket (an island in Thailand). There are many legends associated with Maravanthe that date back to the mythological times.

Gokarna comprising of three beaches Om, Half Moon and Paradise. These beaches are known for the enthralling water sports they offer. Murudeshwar Beach is an important pilgrimage point that has the second tallest statue of Lord Shiva in the world.

A trip to any of these beaches is likely to provide a very distinct charm. India as a unique land of topography unquestionably upholds its name in terms of beaches. A special tour is needed to be dedicated just for the beaches of India.

7. Options for Adventure Holidays in India

Trekking in Indian Himalaya

kauri-pass

The Himalayas are the bewitching mountain ranges in the world. Apart from having the most alluring landscapes, they sum up some of the most assorted trekking trails in the world. Since the mountain is rich in bio diversity, one could witness the rarest and the most exotic flora and fauna during trekking.

There are varieties of treks available to choose from. If you want to go on a pilgrimage trek, then you can choose from the Char Dham Yatra, Gangotri Glacier Trek, Panch Kedar Trek, Hemkund Sahib Trek, Om Parvat Trek and lots more.

For a family vacation trek, the Garhwal Valley is flooded with trails like the Chopta Valley trek, Bedni Bugyal Trek, Dehradun-Mussoorie trek etc. For adventure fanatics there is a discrete list of trails such as the Stok Kangri Trek, Chaddar Trek, Kinner Kailash Circuit Trek, Pin Parvati Trek and lots more.

For rejuvenation, one could always hike up to the Valley of Flowers and realize that the work of God’s is not only a tale or legend. The visitors can witness some of the colorful flowers in the valley such as the Daisies, Cobra Lily, Blue Poppy, Brahmakamal and so on.

These luscious treks are sure to fill an individual’s appetite for witnessing awe-inspiring nature. With majority of treks passing through the national parks and sanctuaries, one is for sure to be delighted to an extent that he or she has no words to describe.

Rafting in Rishikesh, Ladakh, Himachal

white-water-rafting

Rishikesh is renowned as the White Water Rafting Capital of India. With its mixed bag of rafting trails, often people seize into the mysticism that echoes in the valley of Gods. It offers variety in the form of rapids and length of rafting trails. An individual need not to be experienced enough to try rafting in Rishikesh as it has all doses of ultimate excitement. There are many campsites that promise a lot of gala time, serving mouth watering cuisines, campfires and many adventure thrilled activities.

The Zanskar River in Ladakh provides the necessary rapids and gorges to make the rafting experience a thrill. The ecstasy goes one up when the rafters enter the Zanskar Canyon also known as “The Great Indian Canyon”. These are above 100 meter walls on both sides of the Zanskar River that have formed a very unique diversified shape due to the erosion. This scenic beauty is hard to find anywhere else in the world. The spirituality hits the rafters when they fight across the rapids amidst the melodious thumping sounds of drums and horns from the monasteries that lie along the rafting trail.

The icy rivers of Himachal Pradesh, surrounded by the coniferous forests and snow-clad mountains forming staircase rapids, challenge the body and soul, and keeps up the excitement of the adrenaline seekers. Chenab, Beas, Satluj and Ravi all these rivers provide necessary rafting trails up to and more than 20 km in length. Lahaul, Shimla, Kullu, and Chamba are the important rafting destinations in Himachal Pradesh.

Mountain Biking

mountain-biking

The sheer fun of heading back to the innocent days of childhood is an experience that everyone longs for. Those careless turns, cuts and bruises contributed for the best time of one’s life. India is a promising land that brings forth all the lost good memories.

All the 20 mountain ranges provide a unique mountain biking experience, pushing you closer to the nature, pumping the adrenaline level like never before. The best and the longest trail that takes over 2 weeks to cover is the Manali – Leh trail. One gets the privilege of riding on the world’s second highest commutable pass, Tanglang La pass. The astounding scope of topography offered covers many high peaks, mystical monasteries and ravishing lakes.

The best biking trails can be experienced in Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand and Karnataka.

Peak Climbing

nepal-treks

Everyone likes to climb the high peaks so that they can get the best visions of the place. On reaching these elevations one certainly agrees to the phrase “No Pain No Gain”.

Covering these summits definitely provides a gripping view of the Mother Earth that is harder to find without climbing these peaks. With 20 mountain ranges accumulating more than 100 peaks, one can be assured of the grand vista.

The top 10 peaks that offer the best landscape view from the top are Mt. Kanchendzonga (Sikkim), Nanda Devi (Uttarakhand), Saltoro Kangri (Jammu and Kashmir), Kangto (Arunachal Pradesh), Reo Purgyil (Himachal Pradesh), Saramati (Nagaland), Sandakphu (West Bengal), Khayang (Manipur), Anamudi (Kerala) and Dodda Betta (Tamil Nadu).

India the word is enough to mesmerize, however it is very difficult to down-size the locations on a single article. Words are not enough; the synonyms don’t match the beauty that needs to be described. The varied topography and bio-diversity provides a soothing experience to the eyes. Be entangled by visiting the land that has more to offer than one could devour. The land of Rishis will impart a distinct knowledge about each and every field of life. After all it is difficult to find peace within oneself, but it is impossible to find it anywhere else.

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Published: 11 Nov, 2013
Vijayendra Thapliyal

About

Vijayendra Thapliyal is the name behind Tour My India, one of the leading tour operators in India. Besides being a successful businessman, he is also a typical travel junkie who loves to explore the treasures concealed in different corners of India. When he is not on road, he is active with a pen sharing travelling experiences with many like him. With a keen interest in India’s rich cultural legacy, he loves to capture memories in his lens.

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