Top 10 of Everything at India

Harmandir Sahib (The Golden Temple, Amritsar)

If you are looking forward to embracing the holy beauty of culture, diversity in religions, spiritual abodes and lip-smacking street foods, then India is the place to be.

I thought of working on the best places to visit, eat food at, accommodate you to and embrace the beauty of and came up with this enticing list of spell-binding wonders. Without taking much time, here’s our Top 10 of everything, when at India:

Safety:  Being an Indian, I find India to be very safe, to a foreigner, I would suggest using common sense and you'll be just fine.

Airport Immigration Check and Visa Airport Immigration Check is quick and Easy, citizens of most countries need a Visa to enter India, more on eVisa Click Here!

Trains: India has one of the world's largest railway networks, Passengers can book tickets through mobile app, or at http://www.indianrail.gov.in/

TIP Groupon is very Popular in India

1. Historical / Architectural Monuments:


India’s history dates back to 5000+ years and have been offering a rich civilization and cultural traits to ponder upon. Offering a scientific approach to its architecture, standing proud and tall letting the tourists dwell into the history behind the making of these spell-binding structures, India lets you embrace its traditional and cultural appreciations with all warm hearts.

When in India, do stop by at the following sights, click
on the links:

1. Monuments of Hampi (Karnataka)
2. Taj Mahal (Agra),
3. Sanchi Stupa (Madhya Pradesh),
4. Ajanta and Ellora Caves ( Maharashtra)
5. Jantar Mantar (Rajasthan)
6. Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu)
7. Sun Temple (Orissa)
8. Fatehpur Sikri (Uttar Pradesh)
9. Jaisalmer Fort (Rajasthan)
10. Harmandir Sahib (The Golden Temple, Amritsar)


2. Eating and Drinking in India:

With diversity in cultural and religious backgrounds, India has a beautiful array of lip-smacking cuisines to relinquish your taste buds. From Gol gappe to theplas, and mishti dohi to gulab jamun, Indian’s surely are big-time foodies and love their appetite.

Here’s a list of some of the best dishes you should try out at different states in India as follows:

1. Makke Di Roti and Sarson Ka Saag (Punjab)
2. Dhokla, Khandvi, Thepla (Gujrat)
3. Pav Bhaji, Thali peeth(Maharashtra)
4. Ker, Sangri, Gatte Ki Sabji (Rajasthan)
5. Sandesh, Daab Jhingri, Rasgulla and Mishti Dohi (West Bengal)
6. Momos, Thukpa, Gundruk (Sikkim)
7. Hyderabadi Biryani, Mirch Salan, Kodi Kura (Andhra Pradesh)
8. Masala Dosa, Chettinad Chicken, Rasam (Tamil Nadu)
9. Red Ant Chutney (Chattisgarh)
10. Masor Tenga (Assam)

3. Affordable and Safe Shelter Recommendations:

If you are the kind that looks forward to budget travelling then you should definitely try a hand at seeking shelter at a shrine, ashram or spiritual lodge. Here’s where you can return the favor as you do ‘seva’ (Hindi term that means selfless service as devotion). If you are not quite comfortable with the concept then you can look out for accommodation services from

1. Zostel
2. Holiday Homes
3. State Tourism Departments
4. Local Lodges
5. Couchsurfing
6. Rent a Bungalow
7. Inexpensive Hostels and Hotels
8. Dharamshalas
9. Paying Guest, Home stay (For slow travelers)
10. Religious institutions

Also, hotel rates are quite affordable and one can have a good stay at a comfy hotel for the price of 900-1500 Indian Rupees for a night.

4. Adventure and Fun Sports:

If you are looking forward to some fun activities and adventures whilst your stay at India then you should definitely visit these must-visit adventure sports destinations popular amongst Indians.

1. Skiing in Kashmir
2. Mountaineering in Uttarakhand
3. River Rafting in Himachal
4. Flying Fox in Kerala
5. Bungee Jumping in Karnataka
6. Water Sports (Swimming, Jet Skiing, Para Sailing, etc) in Goa
7. Paragliding in Maharashtra
8. Rock Climbing in Madhya Pradesh
9. Scuba Diving in Andaman
10. Trekking in Arunachal.

Jaisalmer Fort (Rajasthan)

Apart from all these beautiful sights and attractions, India lets you trail through an array of beautiful and serene beaches, waterfalls and a wide canopy of forests, sanctuaries and national parks. Do not miss out on any of these places, you never know, one of the best of your adventures might await your presence at India.

If you think one of the destinations didn’t make up to the list, then comment below on your favorite destination, food, sport or idea of fun or travel that you experienced while at India.

Happy travelling to you!

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Things to see in Rajasthan India

The term ‘Rajasthan’ signifies the land of ‘Rajas’ or the kings. The witness of a glorious and romantic past and the bearer of that heritage till date, Rajasthan is the largest state of India. The majestic palaces hold the tale of courage, love, glory and win, whereas the desert holds mystery and magic.  The awesome combination of these two and much more makes Rajasthan one of the most colorful states to visit in India. The rural Rajasthan will give you a glimpse of old and traditional India, whereas the beautiful cities are to offer you the glittering palaces, the unique architectures, the colorful culture and the arts.

Women in Rajasthan wear Colorful clothes and Men wear colorful turbans

Transportation: I have taken trains, Buses from New Delhi, Also drove through Rajasthan on my way from New Delhi to Bombay. For buses check http://rsrtc.rajasthan.gov.in/index.php

Stay: Popular tourist destination, plenty of cheap hotels. If you want to splurge stay at the Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur, I stayed a night there.

Let’s check out some places of this state, where you can have a real feel of Rajasthan

Jaipur

Jaipur is the capital city of Rajasthan. This largest city of Rajasthan is also known as the ‘Pink City’ of India. This city is famous for its excellent palaces, architecture and the colorful markets. The main attraction of this place is the palace of the winds, which was created by Rana Pratap Singh during the 18th Century. Inside this palace, the glimpse of royal grandeur can be seen. The city palace of Jaipur is another attraction you cannot afford to miss. In a one day trip from this city, visit the famous Amber Fort. While leaving Jaipur, do pick up the local trinkets from the local market Johari Bazaar

My Recommendation for Food in Jaipur: Chokhi Dhani Village

Jodhpur

Jodhpur is the second largest city of the Rajasthan. Form the color of the outer wall of the houses, this city is known as the blue city. Back in the day, the color blue outside the house used to signify the occupancy of the upper-class people, i.e the Brahmins. The fort named Mehrangarh Fort of Jodhpur is one of the largest forts in the country. You can also take a trip to a village named Bishnoi, to get an authentic taste of the rural Rajasthan

Jodhpur Fort

Apart from Meherangarh, the Umed Bhawan palace is also very famous. It is one of the world's largest private residences. A part of the palace is managed by Taj Hotels. Named after Maharaja Umaid Singh, grandfather of the present Maharaja of Jodhpur, this monument has 347 rooms and serves as the principal residence of the Jodhpur royal family. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Umaid_Bhawan_Palace

Photo I took of Jodhpur city from the Fort

Udaipur

The city of Udaipur is named as the city of lakes. The awesome beauty of the Lake Pichola and the royal establishments around that takes away the breath of every traveler. The city palace and the view from it are the most popular tourist attractions of this city. Apart from that, do give a visit to the Bag dore-Ki- Haveli, Jag Mandir Island, Sajjan Garh Palace etc. While visiting this city, don’t miss a puppet show which portrays the colors of Rajasthan and its glorious culture

Jaisalmer

The famous golden city of Rajasthan is called Jaisalmer. Apart from the golden fort, this city also takes you near the golden sand of the Thar Desert. The stay inside the desert in a tent with a dose of local traditional dance will give you an adventure not lesser than a tale of Arabian Night. Primarily,   the city of Jaisalmer is called the City of Gold for its awesome golden sandstone, with which the whole city along with its fort is made. The fort is called Sonar Quilla (The fort of Gold). From Jaisalmer, do take a visit to the Gadisar Lake. 

Jain Temples inside the Fort are a must see.

Chittorgarh

The Chittorgarh is the place where the largest fort of India is based. Location southern Rajasthan. The Fort is a must see and is UNESCO World Heritage site.  In the temple of Mira Bai at Chittorgarh Fort, the great devotee of Lord Krishna had merged with her lord.

Ranthambore

This is the one and only national park of Rajasthan. Apart from the excellent view of the tigers in their natural habitat, this place also offers you the view of majestic Ranthambore Fort. This fort is situated in the middle of the national park. Along with the fort, the temples inside of the fort are the other important attractions of this place

Bikaner

Named after its founder Rao Bika Ji, this city is famous for the Junagarh Fort. This is one of the forts of the country which claims the honor of never being defeated. The heritage hotel Laxmi Niwas Palace is also the home of the royal family of the state. The elusive Karani Mata Temple is located near the Bikaner, where rats are treated as sacred beings

Bikaner is famous in India for its dried snacks and Sweet dishes. 

Ajmer

Ajmer is a holy place for both Hindu and Muslim pilgrims. The shrine of saint Chisty is the holiest place for the Muslims in India. The Taragarh Fort and the beautiful Ana Sagar lake is the other must visit places of this beautiful small town. 
Careful -- shrine of saint Chisty can be very crowded. 

Pushkar

I visited Pushkar Rajasthan in November a few years back, for the world famous Camel fair, details of that trip are on my post at http://www.arvintravels.com/p/pushkar-camel-fair.html

Apart from being the gorgeous, Rajasthan also holds the reputation of being one of the most colorful nations of India. So, after your visit, the trinkets of this colorful cultures is a must take with all the memories you have created here.   

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Dharamshala - McLeod Ganj Travels

During my last visit to India, I had also visited McLeod Ganj in the Himalayas, home of the exiled Dalai Lama. 

Transportation: From Delhi I took the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Night deluxe Bus. Return bus to Delhi I took a night bus again.

Hotel: When you get off the bus at McLeod Ganj, there are plenty of people asking if you need a room, check a few and decide.

Food: Plenty of small cafes, great food. Pick one, Momo (dumpling) is a popular cafe food.

Safety: I found McLeod Ganj to be safe, be careful of your belongings.

Buddha Statue at the Buddhist temple across from Dalai Lama house.

Mani Prayer Wheel, Click here for info on Mani Prayer Wheels.



Picture of a Tea Shop in McLeodgunj and Owner of the Tea Shop, they made some super good omelets.


TP on the way to a trek in the mountains from McLeod Ganj , if you are interested in trekking, check the trek to Chamba valley. Click Here





Picture of Some local people I took

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Places to Visit in New Delhi, India

Places to Visit in New Delhi, India

Delhi - A Heritage City with Centuries old Forts, Temples, Mosques, Historic Sites, Should be on every World Travelers bucket list. 

Best Time to visit: November through March

The Underground Metro is operational in Delhi. Air-conditioned and very clean. New Delhi has more Buses (Public Transportation) then any other city in the World. The Buses use clean fuel and are natural gas-powered. The Delhi government is studying a proposal to introduce a fleet of solar-powered battery electric buses in the city.

Delhi Tourism has a hop on hop off bus, which is also a great way to see the city.  If you are not on a budget, use a cab, as trains are packed with people

Qutab Minar, A World Heritage site.

Below A visit to Mehrauli Archaeological Park, Some of the monuments there, are 800 years old, it is next to to Qutab Minar, A World Heritage site.

Asoka Pillar 3 Century BC. For more info check http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iron_pillar_of_Delhi

Red Fort Delhi

World Heritage Site, Its also known as Lal Quilla in Hindi, neaarest Metro station Chandni Chowk. On Indian On Independence Day (15 August), the Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag at Red Fort. My recommendation is to hire a tour guide, there will be several Guides that will approach you, get a price before you start the tour. Give yourself a minimum 2 hours to See the whole complex.





Sis Ganj Gurdwara

A short walk from Red Fort, in the Chandni Chowk Area

 Picture above is Sis Ganj Gurdwara, A historical woship site for Sikhs for info check the wiki page http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gurudwara_Sis_Ganj_Sahib

Jama Masjid, Old Delhi

Also in the Chandni Chowk Area, walking distance from the above 2 sites, dress modestly




Humayun's Tomb built in 1565 A.D, A UNESCO World Heritage Site, nearest Metro JNL stadium

ISCON Temple

Its a little out of the way in Kalish Colony area, best to take a cab

New Delhi ISCON Temple (Here Krishna), they have a cafe with Awesome Vegetarian Food

Lotus Temple Delhi. Bahai Faith. New Delhi - A must See

Nearest Metro Kalkaji Mandir Metro Station,


India Gate - The the National monument of India. There is National Museum close by, I do suggest taking a Cab or tuk-tuk to Rashpati Bahavan from India Gate, or you can even walk




Above -- Indian Parliament building and The Rashtrapati Bhavan, President's Residence is the home of the President of India

Bangla Sahib - Sikh Gurdwara

(Sikh Place of Worship) This is a huge complex with a pond, free food is also served here. Dress modestly and head needs to be covered with a cloth. There is a visitors center on the premises.

Akshardham Hindu Temple - Must See

Little outside Delhi, Akshardham Metro Station, best to take a Cab as Metro will be super crowded, cameras not allowed, picture I took from the road nearby.



Lodhi Gardens


Another must See, Nearest Metro Station: Central Secretariat. Over 90 acres and monuments from the 1400's

Diwali

Diwali - The festival of Lights is the best time to be in India, it is celebrated in the beginning of November. The Whole country is decorated.

Click on my pictures to Enlarge
At night there are fireworks everywhere

Getting vegetables direct from the farm. There are several farms on the outskirts of Delhi.

The farmer cutting cauliflower, $ 1 for 15 cauliflowers. You can buy veggies from a road side vendor also.
New Delhi rush hour traffic is bumper to bumper for miles, yes you still see cows on the streets in Delhi, give yourself plenty of time when travelling in rush hour traffic.

Dilli Haat - Arts and Crafts Market, Near INA Market metro station, popular with tourists, A craftsman weaving a A dhurrie at Delhi Haat, It is a thick flat rug or carpet at a market in Delhi

A Street Vendor Selling Popcorn

Elephant on the Street, not an uncommon site




Happy Travels! Do check out my posts on India. http://www.arvinder.com/2006/11/top-10-of-everything-at-india.html

If you think one of the destinations didn’t make up to the list, then comment below on your favorite destination, food, sport or idea of fun or travel that you experienced while at New Delhi.

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Things to do in Amritsar India

One of my Visits to India,  I headed to Amritsar Punjab. For all its glory, Amritsar is blessed with the three best must-visit destinations, each unique in their own ways; namely, Harmandir Sahib (The Golden Temple), The Jallianwala Bagh and The Wagah Border. Apart from these beauties are the colorful streets of Jallianwala Market, that adds brilliance and vibrancy to this city with its utmost fervor.

Stay: There are several hotels, Golden Tulip Amritsar Hotel close to the train station being one of them, for Cheap or free stay Check http://sgpc.net/sarai-info/ 

The next day, I took a shared horse-cart ride to Harmandir Sahib, popularly known as The Golden Temple. Starting your day with a visit to Holiest Place for the Sikhs is probably the best thing to do, especially when you are at Amritsar.  Amritsar means Pool of the Nectar, the Gurdwara being the main attraction of the city, built 16th Century. There are four doors to get into the Gurdwara, one on each side of the four walls, which symbolize the openness towards all human beings regardless of their color or religion.

I entered the temple, handled my footwear at the counter, washed my feet, took a scarf and covered my head and entered the Temple as I embraced the beautiful White Marble sculpted temple that has pure gold covering on the surface. I saw a huge gathering of worshipers and visitors, locals, people from other cities and other countries too, I can say it without a doubt, this has been the most beautiful experience in my entire life.

The Golden Temple has open dining hall, serving free basic vegetarian meals to all. We Sit on floor mats and eat, heads need to be covered and no shoes allowed.

Next Stop I headed towards Jallianwala Bagh, a minute away from The Golden Temple. Every step taken at the bagh reminded me of the massacre that took place here. I'd recommend you to go visit the gardens.

Read more about the massacre at Wikipedia

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jallianwala_Bagh_massacre

Next, was an approximately 34 kms ride to Wagah Border that was scheduled for its parade at 3 PM. But, before that, I stopped by at a street food stall to relinquish some lip-smacking Amritsari Fish with Roomali Rotis. Yum, the fish is very popular and there are several youtube videos, its highly recommended food when at Amritsar. I also happened to carry a zip-lock bag with Amritsari Kulcha, another popular food item. Anthony Bourdain Parts Unknown, did a whole episode on Amrisar.

Wagah Border is surely an amazing thing that happened to me that day. My perception about the two countries (India and Pakistan) was changed for the good. People were present in hundreds to have fun, cheer for their country and have a good time enjoying the routine parade done by the soldiers.

Next, From Amritsar I headed back to Delhi – traveled by train called Shatabdi, the train is fast and comfortable. 

Questions or Comments?

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Rishikesh and Haridwar

Haridwar is a town I passed on my way to Rishikesh in the outskirts of the Himalaya Mountains. I did whitewater rafting in the Ganges River, considered Holy River by Indians. Older civilizations pray to the rivers, hence the Fire ritual you see. If you have Time and can stand large crowds, its worth a stop.


Shiva Statue at Haridwar.





Aarti (religious ritual of worship) being performed by the Ganges River in Haridwar.


Rishikesh

Popular Tourist destination, if you want to do a yoga course, this is the place. Its by the Ganges river, its about 5 hours from Delhi, there are tourist buses though I always go by car.

I stayed at an Eco Lodge in Rishikesh, it was in the outskirts if the city. I wanted peace and quiet and away from the touristy areas.

Click on the Pictures to Enlarge them.



My room, beautiful views



The Ganges river was few yards away

Suspension bridge over river Ganges in Rishikesh, lots of monkeys around, if caring food, cover it properly or you will have a monkey snatch it from you.

I have visited Rishikest twice and did whitewater rafting both times, click the link below for my whitewater rafting picture

http://www.arvinder.com/2005/10/whitewater-rafting.html


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