DAL LAKE SRINAGAR(www.forceearth.org)

Dal Lake has rightfully become an icon of the Kashmir tourism industry. A Himalayan urban lake, it has five basins and a number of channels that are well linked with each other.

There are plenty of fishes in Dal Lake and fishery is the second largest industry of the region centered on the lake. The sparkling quiet waters of Dal surrounded by snow-capped mountains on its three sides, undoubtedly mark it as one of the most beautiful lakes of India.

 It is also the second largest lake in the State of Jammu and Kashmir with numerous gardens and orchards all along its shores.

Houseboats form an indelible part of the scenery of the Dal Lake that are always ready to take tourists to a romantic and peaceful ride of the lake and soothe their nerves as the houseboat floats over the slightly rippling waters.

 They also offer some of the most exotic views of the splendid scenery of the Dal Lake.

SOLAN WEATHER

BEST SEASON / BEST TIME TO VISIT SOLAN

The climate of the city of Solan can be classified as a sub temperate climate and the conditions are pleasant for most parts of the year. The place gets a good amount of rainfall during the monsoon season and snow fall also can also be expected in higher areas during the winter season.

 The peak summer months can be warm; however it is possible to visit even during this time.

The summer season starts in the month of March and ends in May. The temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C and can go up to a maximum of 35°C. The hottest month of the year is usually May.

Nights are significantly cooler as the temperatures fall after sunset.

The place gets rainfall from June to September from the South West Monsoon. It is possible to visit even during the monsoon season and the entire place is lush green and pristine. The months of October and November are good time to visit as they signify the end of the monsoon season and the conditions are mild.

Temperatures during the winter season range from a minimum of -2°C and can go up to maximum of 15°C. The winter season is from December to

MUSHROOM CITY SOLAN

The Directorate of Mushroom Research is located in Solan city of Himachal Pradesh, endeared as the gateway of Himachal Pradesh, the mountainous wonder of Solan city is famous for its cultural splendor, excellent picnic spots, numerous old temples and seasonal vegetable crops. Being quite industrialized, Solan is widely popular for its mushroom cultivation and bearing the title of “Mushroom City of India”. Considering the contribution of this city and endeavor of DMR towards mushroom research, development, cultivation and popularization of mushroom, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh declared Solan as Mushroom City of India on 10th September, 1997 during the Indian Mushroom Conference organized jointly by the DMR and Mushroom Society of India.

SHIMLA

BEST SEASON / BEST TIME TO VISIT SHIMLA

Shimla is beautiful throughout the year and can be visited in any month, however, September to June will be the best months for travelling to Shimla.

·         Winter (October to February) are ideal for enjoying snowfall, skiing and ice skating. Average temperature during winter is 8°C and can dip as low as -2°C. This is a good time for honeymooning.

·         Summer (March to June) are the suitable time to enjoy the scenic beauty. Temperature ranges between 15°C to 30°C and is ideal for indulging in paragliding, trekking, camping and rafting. There will be no snowfall, but snow can be enjoyed on very high altitudes.

·         Monsoon (July to mid September) are not the best time to visit as excessive rain can result in landslides.

While summers are good for adventure and sightseeing, winters is perfect for honeymooning and enjoying snow. The natural beauty is at its maximum during monsoons but travel can be made difficult due to unexpected landslides.

CHENNAI

Chennai is one of the four metropolitan cities and also an important part of South India. The city sited on the coastal region includes the scintillating natural beauty of sea beaches.Since the colonial times, Chennai is the home for thousands of Christians. As early as the 1500s, Christianity started to spread in South India and with the coming of the Europeans like the Portuguese.

Chennai is the largest city in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, and located on the south-eastern Coromandel Coast off the Bay of Bengal, this vibrant metropolis serves as a gateway to the culture of South India. The city is a major hub of cultural, commercial and education in South India. The city of Chennai has also been endowed with the rich heritage of art and culture. Carnatic Music and Bharatanatyam are two of the best and biggest cultural exports of Chennai or broadly, the Tamil culture. The annual cultural event of Madras Music Season, where respected artistes pour in from all over the city to perform, is a chance when you can soak in the absolute magic of rich musical heritage of South India. Besides, the city offers a kaleidoscopic view to the rich South Indian drama, architecture, sculpture, arts and crafts.

PUNJAB

The state is bordered by the Indian states of Himachal Pradesh to the east, Haryanato the south and southeast and Rajasthanto the southwest as well as the Pakistani province of Punjabto the west. It is also bounded to the north by Jammu & Kashmir. The state capital is located in Chandigarh, which is a Union Territory and also the capital of the neighboring state of Haryana. Major cities of Punjab include Ludhiana, Amritsar, Patiala, Jalandhar, Nawanshahr, Firozpur, Bathindaand Mohali.

List of major cities population in Punjab are:-

1. Ludhiana population of 1,613,878.

2. Amritsar population of 1,183,761.

3. Jalandhar population of 862,196.

4. Patiala population of 404,686.

5. Bathinda population of 285,813.

Sikhism is the predominant faith in Punjab followed by around 61% of the populace. The holiest of Sikh shrines, the Sri Harmandir Sahib, is in the city of Amritsar. The Sri Akal Takt Sahib, which is within the Golden Temple complex, is the temporal seat of Sikhs. Of the five Takhts (Temporal Seats of religious authority) of Sikhism, three are in Punjab. These are Sri Akal Takt Sahib, Damdama Sahib and Anandpur Sahib. The Punjabi Language, written in the Gurmukhi script, is the official language in the state.

The state capital of Punjab is Chandigarh. There are 14 cities and 157 towns in Punjab. The major cities in Punjab are Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Nawanshar, Amritsar, Patiala, Mohali, and Bhatinda.

Tourism in Indian Punjab centres around the historic palaces, battle sites, and the great Sikh architecture of the state and the surrounding region. Examples include various sites of the Indus Valley Civilization, the ancient fort of Bathinda, the architectural monuments of Kapurthala, Patiala, and Chandigarh, the modern capital designed by Le Corbusier. The Golden Temple in Amritsar is one of the major tourist destinations of

Punjab Bhangra is a form of dance and music that originated in the Punjab region. Bhangra dance began as a folk dance conducted by Punjabi farmers to celebrate the coming of the harvest season.

AGRA FORT

GOA

THE RED FORT

INDIA GATE

LOTUS TEMPLE(www.forceearth.org)

HARYANA

CHARMINAR

KUFRI

Those who seek secluded vacation in a cool and pleasant ambiance, picturesque environs and regions offering challenging and adventurous activities can opt for travel to Kufri.

 Tourists can enjoy the majestic panoramic views of the verdant valley and the snow clad foothills of Himalayas.

Kufri, a small picturesque hill station at the foothills of Himalayas, is located at the southern part of the state of HIMACHAL PRADESH and is known for its pleasing climate and scenic beauty.

It is a pleasant location near the majestic hill station SHIMLA.

 Kufri, perched at a height of 2,510 m above the sea level, is known for its picturesque trekking and hiking trails.

 Adventurous travelers prefer to visit Kufri during winters to experience and enjoy the skiing and tobogganing along its snow clad mountainous slopes.

 

SOLAN

Solan is well known for its brewery 4.8 km from town started in 1835 with Anglo-German co-operation, and known as Dyer-Meakin Brewery, producing excellent larger beer and quality whisky.

 In 1950, it was taken over by the late Major Mohan, renamed Mohan-Meakin Breweries in 1966. With an improved quality, the enterprise gives employment to thousands, both in Himachal and the plains.

 Chir pine clothes the Shimla Hills, which yields resin and timber while apricots and walnuts grow all over the hills, maize and paddy are the two leading grains Vegetables and Shimla variety of green chillies are extensively grown in the Shimla Hills to be sold to tourists and others.

 The area surrounding Solan in very rich in peas, tomatoes ginger and beans.

 Connected to Kalka, broad-gauge railway terminus by a hill-railway, using diesel engines, and also by road, the holiday begins at Kalka. Situated midway between Shimla and Kalka, in the outer ranges of the Himalayas, Solan is at a height of 1,350 metres [4,432ft] and popular with those desire to spend more time in the hills. Coming from the parched planis, the first stop traditionally, is Barog, 37 km from Kalka, and 5 km from Solan, Barog, and refreshingly cool spot in idyllic surroundings is a wonderful prelude to the holiday ahead.

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VAISHNO DEVI TEMPLE

Shri Maa Vaishno Devi Shrine is one of the oldest shrine of India, located at a height of 5300 feet on the holy Trikuta Hills of the Shivalik Hill Range. The Holy cave is 13 Kms from the Base Camp Katra. The Town Katra is 50 Kms away from Jammu and 35 Kms from District HQ Udhampur and is linked by road. Ma Vaishno Devi Temple is situated in the folds of the Trikuta Hill, in Jammu and Kashmir.

PLACES TO VISIT:

BAAN GANGA

 Going down for about a mile one crosses Baan Ganga, a stream associated with Maa Vaishno Devi. Actually from this place the stiff ascent on the Trikuta range starts. The pilgrims take a purificatory dip in this stream before starting on the ascent. This place is about two and a half kilometers distant from Katra at an altitude of 2,800 ft. above the sea-level.
MATA'S CAVE
Mata's cave shrine is nestled in snow-capped mountains and forests of Trikuta mountain forming a part of the lower Himalayas and 61 kilometers north of Jammu at a height of 5,200 feet above the sea level in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. There is a 13km mountain hike on foot from Katra to the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi. On reaching 'bhavan', token of prashad can be bought and 'sanan' can be done before entering the cave for 'darshan'.
It is believed that a supernatural power takes over every soul to terrain the distance with ease.
Bhairon Mandir
It is believed that the journey to Mata's shrine is complete only after visiting the shrine of Bhairon, 2.5 km from the Bhawan, on your way back. You have to collect your belongings before going to this shrine, as the return path from the Bhairon shrine joins the main path at Sanji Chatt.
Best season
Light winter-wear is required at night during the summer months. During the remaining part of the year, carry heavy winter wear. During winter months, the path may be blocked due to snowfall. The heaviest rush is during the Navratra periods in March-April and September-October.

AKSHARDHAM

Akshardham Gandhinagar is one of the largest temples in theIndian state of Gujarat. The temple complex combines devotions, art, architecture, education, exhibitions and research at one place which is spread in an area of 23 acres.

RASHTRAPATI BHAWAN

KAILASH MAANSAROVAR

UTTARANCHAL

GOLKONDA

JANTAR MANTAR

QUTUB MINAR

AMBER FORT

HUMAYUN TOMB

HAWA MAHAL

KODAIKANAL

Kodaikanal has an endangered animal called the grizzled giant squirrel. To us, that alone is reason to book a trip ("grizzled giant squirrel" might be the best animal name ever). Perched on the woodsy southern crest of the Palani Hills, nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, this popular lakeside resort town is a magnet for nature lovers. Wander the peaceful slopes, keeping an eye out for birds, exotic flowers and, of course, grizzled giant squirrels.

PLACES OF INTEREST

KODAIKANAL LAKE

COAKERS WALK

BERIJAM LAKE

TIRUPATI

The holy city of Tirupati draws tourists and religious pilgrims alike, who flock to the Ancient Lord Venkateswara Temple, known for its elabourate Dravidian style and gold-plated cupola. Prayers are offered daily at this popular temple, which sits high in the Tirumala hills. Several other temples dot the town, and the lush countryside contains numerous waterfalls. Tirupati is also home to a rare, naturally-occurring pre-Jurassic stone arch that is 25 feet long and 10 feet high, one of only three of these geological features in the world

PLACES OF INTEREST

TIRUMALA TEMPLE

TALAKONA WATERFALL

TIRUPATI TEMPLE

MAHABALESHWAR

The city of Mahabaleshwar is a pinnacle of greenery, boasting one of the only evergreen forests in the world. The landscape abounds with lush hills, valleys and lookout points such as Lodwick Point, Arthur’s Seat and Babington Point, all of which offer spectacular views. Trot along on horseback for a delightful four-legged tour of the gorgeous Venna Lake area, and savour juicy native strawberries, mulberries and corn.

PLACES OF INTEREST

VENNA LAKE

WILSON POINT

MAHABALESHWAR TEMPLE

AMRITSAR

Amritsar is a major commercial and cultural centre in the heart of Punjab. The city is the spiritual and cultural centre of the Sikh religion and is home to the Harmandir Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple. Respectfully marvel at the Indian and Pakistani soldiers who march-off nightly at the Wagha Border, and at the Jallian Wala Bagh the site of the 1919 Amritsar Massacre in 1919.

PLACES OF INTEREST

DARBAR SAHIB

JALLIANWALA BAGH

HARMANDIR SAHIB

MATHERAN

Matheran is all about the views. Easily accessible via scenic rail from Mumbai, this refuge in the Sahyadri Hills is blissfully free of motor vehicles and affords nearly three dozen lookouts over the Western Ghats and the region’s village-dotted plains. Porcupine Point is anything but prickly—rather, it’s an ideal spot for gorgeous sunsets, especially at the aptly named Panorama Point. Avid hikers hit the densely forested and wildlife-rich route to the ruins of Prabalgad Fort.

PLACES OF INTEREST

CHARLOTTE

RAMBAUG POINT

PAYMASTERS PARK

MOUNT ABU

Situated amidst lush green, forested hills on the highest peak in the Aravali range, Mount Abu is the summer capital for the Indian state of Rajasthan. Its cool and soothing climate makes it an ideal retreat. Explore a number of Jain temples, including the Dilwara Temples, a complex carved of while marble, or visit the nearby Achalgarh fort, which houses many beautiful temples of its own.

PLACES OF INTEREST

DILWARA TEMPLE

SUNSET POINT MOUNT ABU

NAKKI LAKE

MYSORE

The kings of the Wodeyar dynasty set the bar high for the southern cultural capital of Mysore. Ornate palaces and the Gothic St. Philomena’s Church with its 175-foot spires pack a visual punch; local institutions keep Carnatic classical music and dance in the public eye. A prominent 11th-century temple sits atop 1,000 steps on the city’s outskirts. Dress to the nines and party like a rock star in celebration of Mysore heritage during the lively Dussehra festival, held for 10 days in October/November.

PLACES OF INTEREST

SOMNATHPUR TEMPLES

MYSORE ZOO

MAHARAJAH TEMPLE

HAVELOCK ISLANDS

Premium scuba diving and snorkeling are the highlights of the gorgeous Havelock Island, the most popular of the Andaman Islands. Glass-bottomed boats provide a similar up-close marine life experience. Jungle treks and camping are popular landlubbing activities, though the more delicately dispositioned can choose to retire to one of several luxury resorts. Refuel with fresh coconut milk and succulent, just-caught seafood, which dominates every meal.

PLACES OF INTEREST

RADHANAGAR BEACH

BARREN ISLAND VOLCANO

MAHATMA GANDHI MARINE NATIONAL PARK

LEH

The Ladakh capital city of Leh lies near the eastern parts of Jammu and Kashmir, on the crossroads of the historic "Silk Route" from Sinkiang to West Asia and to the plains of India. The humbling monasteries of Shey, Hemis, Alchi, Thikse and Lamayuru will nurture your spiritual needs, and the landscape of Leh provides for a number of adventure activities including mountaineering, white-water rafting and trekking along the Markha Valley.

PLACES OF INTEREST

TIBETIAN MARKET

PHYANG MONASTERY

LEH ROYAL PALACE

JAIPUR

If you take one look at the glorious stucco buildings that line Jaipur’s wide streets, you’ll understand why this is nicknamed "The Pink City." Spend your days exploring City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and Amber and Jaigarh forts. And if you’re looking for a unique souvenir, head to one of the bazaars, where you can pick up a pair of camel-leather slippers.

Places of Interest

AMBER FORT & PALACE

JANTAR MANTAR- JAIPUR

HAWA MAHAL

DHARAMSHALA

Serenely spiritual Dharamsala is home to the largest Tibetan temple outside of Tibet. It’s known for its religious iconography and is the monastery of the Dalai Lama, who holds public lectures a few times a year. Once you’ve restored your spiritual energy, enjoy a picturesque stroll to Bhagsu Waterfall or climb the hill to Triund to bask in stunning views of the Himalayas.

BANGLORE

UDAIPUR

PONDICHERRY

JAMMU

RAJASTHAN

KARNATAKA

MADHYA PRADESH

TAMIL NADU

WEST BENGAL

ANDHRA PRADESH

UTTAR PRADESH

ASSAM

MUMBAI

KERALA

CHANDIGARH

Chandigarh is a city and union territory in India that serves as the capital of two states, Haryana and Punjab. The city of Chandigarh was the first planned city in India post independence in 1947. Chandigarh is located near the foothills of the shivalik range of the Himalayas in northwest India. It covers an area of approximately 44.5 sq mi or 114 km² and shares its borders with the states of Haryana and Punjab. The surrounding districts are of Panchkula and Ambala in Haryana and Mohali, Patiala and Roopnagar in Punjab.

Best places to visit in Chandigarh:

LEISURE VALLEY

Leisure valley is the most beautiful and popular tourist attraction destination in Chandigarh. Chandigarh Leisure valley is like a garland of gardens that beautifies the entire city. It begins from Rajendra Park in Sector 1 that is basically used for long walks, yoga and other fitness workout activities and stretches till the Bougainvillea garden in Sector 3. It also covers the splendid garden of roses in Sector 16. Leisure valley takes a curvaceous turn, when it enters Sector 23.

ROCK GARDEN

Exquisite artwork made from industrial and urban waste Chandigarh rock garden is an epitome of creativity and innovation. But the best part about the rock garden is that each of its artwork has been made by using industrial & urban waste. It is located in Sector 1 between the Capitol Complex and Sukhna Lake. The garden houses sculptures made by using a variety of different discarded waste materials like frames, mudguards, forks, handle bars, metal wires, play marbles, porcelain, auto parts, broken bangles etc. Rock garden in Chandigarh, India is a unique creation and connoisseurs come from different parts of the world to see this amazing garden.

SUKHNA LAKE

Sukhna Lake is a beautiful lake that lies in the foothills of Shivalik range. The unique thing about Sukhna is that it is a manmade lake. It is a 3 km long lake that was created in the year 1958. Chandigarh Sukhna Lake serves as a great picnic spot and an apt place for pursuing water sport activities like boating, yachting and water skiing etc.

OPEN HAND

Open hand in Chandigarh, India is one of the most significant monuments of the city. It is located in sector 1 in the Capitol Complex. Chandigarh open hand monument has been designed in the form of a giant hand made from metal sheets that rotates like a weathercock, indicating the direction of wind. This giant hand is 14 metres high and weighs around 50 tonnes.

CAPITOL COMPLEX

Chandigarh capitol complex houses the seat of Government. Initially, it served as the seat only for the Govt of Punjab, but now it has the headquarters of both, the Govt of Punjab and Haryana. The credit for the awesome designing of the Capitol complex goes to Le Corbusier. Located in Sector 1, capitol complex in Chandigarh, India consists of three main edifices, namely, the Secretariat, the Legislative Assembly and the High Court. The three buildings of the Capitol complex stand majestically representing themselves as the temples of democracy of free India

GUJARAT