NEW ZEALAND

 New Zealand is a delightful and beautiful country located near Australia. It's glaciers, volcanoes, mountains, seas, forests and cities are amazing to watch. Tourism in New Zealand  has something to offer to every kind of traveller. It is a right mix of natural beauty and urbanisation. It is also called as nature's paradise. It is known to be one among the happiest countries in the world. It is a perfect tourist destination to go with family or friends. It also provides many opportunities for Indians to excel in the fields of education, sports, global affairs and tourism. Many students from India go to New Zealand for higher studies and jobs. It is a wonderful place to visit and live in.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: New Zealand is open to tourism throughout the year. Every season offers some remarkable and unique experience. New Zealand is subject to four seasons; summer, autumn, winter and spring.

THINGS TO VISIT: 

1) Waitomo Caves tour

2) Fox glacier helicopter hiking

3) The light show near Lake Tekapo

4) Milford sound tour

5) Food and wine festivals

FOOD: Pacific, European and Asian foodstuffs are available in plenty here. New Zealand is known for its fresh seafood and its tender lambs. There are all sorts of restaurants throughout the country including fine dining Bistros, fast food chains, burger and fish and chips joints and cafes. Fresh fruits, vegetables, jams and pickles are available at Farmers markets that open early in the morning.

SHOPPING: New Zealand is also known for its top-notch boutiques and is known for some very popular brands like Trelise Cooper, Annah Stretton, Huffer and Ruby and many more. In the arts and crafts section, you will find a number of items made of glass, wood or even jade crafted in enticing souvenirs.

PLACES TO VISIT:

1) Auckland

2) Christchurch

3) Queenstown

4) Wellington

5) The Bay of Islands

6) Matamata

7) Rotorua

New Zealand is one among the finest places to visit in the world. It's natural beauty and modern cities would definately make your day. It is a place for all kinds of people to stay. One can get whatever he wants here. New Zealand shall always remain one of my favourite places to visit.

                                                                        AUSTRALIA

Australia is one of the most beautiful and unique places in the world. It's vast mountains, pristine white beaches, deserts, the gushing rivers and the modern cities are sure to leave you in awe. You are bound to get mesmerised by the vast range of sights and activities Australia has to offer. Australia has exceled in all walks of life, be it sports or world affairs.  It is one of the most developed and powerful countries of the world today. Its seasons are entirely opposite to that of most of the world, with its summers falling in December- January and winters in April-May-June. You should surely plan a trip to Australia atleast once in a lifetime to get hold of some beautiful memories.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: The weather in Australia is generally the opposite to the rest of the world. However, most of the year is pleasant in some part of the country. Plan your trip according to the weather in each area.

THINGS TO DO: 

1) Scuba diving

2) Sky diving

3) Warner Bros movie world

4) Wine and Ale tasting

5) Sydney Opera House

6) Whitsunday islands

7) Philip island

FOOD: Among the top places to eat in Australia, you must surely try Attica, Quay and Vu de Monde. For all the wine Connesiurs, there is always d'Arenberg Cube for some wine and dine amidst architectural excellence.

SHOPPING: With both Melbourne and Sydney being fashion capitals of the continent nation, you'd never go wrong with picking your brands from these cities. Also , while you are in Australia, you could also check out a pair of Uggs for yourself to keep your feet warm during winters.

PLACES TO VISIT:

1) Melbourne

2) Perth

3) Brisbane 

4) Gold Coast

5) Whitsunday islands

6) Phillip island

7) Sydney Opera House

8) The Great Barrier Reef

9) Kata Tjuta national park

10) Adelaide

11) Canberra

Australia is truely a memorable place to visit. It's tall skyscrapers, cable strayed bridges, food and the weather shall surely make you happy. It is also known as the country of Kangaroos. The vast, beautiful landscape of this country is breath-taking. It has a proper mix of natural surroundings as well as urbanised and modern cities. I shall always be happy to take a trip to Australia anytime.

                                                                      NETHERLANDS

Netherlands is a beautiful country and its beauty cannot be expressed in words alone. It is a perfect package of history, nature and culture. Its ancient buildings, canals, museums and cafes are worth visiting. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe as well as the world. It is a right mix of ancient culture as well as modernity. The most popular things to do here are taking bicycle tours of the city and boat rides through the beautiful canals. Netherlands is architectually so well planned that it looks no less than a film studio set. The weather is also said to be very pleasant here.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: The most touristy time to visit Netherlands may be late spring and summer but if you want quieter places then consider autumn time.

THINGS TO DO:

1) Go for bicycle tours

2) Tour the Art Scene in Amsterdam

3) Go boating in a canal

4) See the tulips bloom

5) Enjoy the amusement parks

FOOD: In Netherlands , never miss out on the delicious syrupy waffles called Stroopwafel, popular at almost all cafes and bakeries. For meals in the country, try the raw herring if you are a fan of fish or go for a lunch of thick, Dutch fries served with a variety of sauces and onions in a plastic or paper cone. Markets are filled with Dutch liquorice and cheeses while the drink of choice should be the indigenous Heineken beer.

SHOPPING: Amsterdam is a shopper's paradise. Things to carry back from Netherlands, aside from a bag full of trinkets and souvenirs include Dutch cheeses, contemporary local jewellery, ceramic items and cute tea sets and cookie jars that are all the rage in a traditional Dutch home. Sweets, candles, scrupy Stroopwafels are the other items you should definately shop here.

PLACES TO VISIT:

1) Amsterdam

2)  The Hague

3)  Utretch

4) Delft

5) Rotterdam

6) Haarlem

Netherlands is a wonder in itself. The vibe of this place is calm and very relaxing. It has managed to please people in all aspects. This place will provide you all the warmth and comfort that you need. The entire beauty and view of Netherlands can be seen by cycling on the streets and boating by the canals. Netherlands shall always be my favourite place to visit.

                                                                TURKEY

Turkey is today a modern country of great progress steeped in rich history. It is a great tourist spot for those who wish to study culture, history and development. It has a lot to offer such as the mosques and ancient palaces of Istanbul , chic luxury brands, shopping streets and the hot air balloon rides to Pamukkale's white terraces that offer thermal water springs. Turkey is also known for its great architecture.  It is no doubt a great place for exploring and tourism.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring , summer, and autumn are the best times to visit Turkey.

THINGS TO DO: 

1) Enjoy Turkish baths and Turkish delicacies.

2) Take a cruise

3) Float above Ruins.

4) Mosque and palace tour

5) Unwind by the beaches

FOOD: Some of the most sought after items in breakfast menu here are menemen (a spiced omlette), olives-cheese-fresh bread, ekmek or sandwich with Kofte balls and salad filling , as well as freshly sliced cucumbers, tomatoes and chillies. Other Turkish delights for main course you must try are pilaf (pulav without vegetables, sauteed in butter, chicken and chickpeas), Dolma (stuffed vine leaves) and Shorba or soup.

SHOPPING: Head to the Grand Bazar of Istanbul to shop for glassware, ceramics, wooden carpets and rugs, artefacts and other decor items. The Egypt spice bazaar is renowed for its exotic spices, spice mixes, coffees, nuts, dry fruits and chocolates. Antalya is a great place to shop for woven linen towels made only in this region.

PLACES TO VISIT:

1) Istanbul

2)  Ankara

3) Mardin 

4) Konya

5) Antalya

6) Bodrum

7) Cappadocia

8) Pamukkale

9) Izmir

Turkey has proved to be a right example for being a cultured, traditional as well as a modern country. Its palaces, mosques, museums, cafes are a treat to watch . It is well known as an architectural marvel. Tourists get impressed on seeing Turkey. The weather is also said to be very pleasing here. Tourists will always get to watch something new and different here. I will always look forward for a trip to Turkey anytime.

                                                                   THAILAND

Thailand has emerged as one of the best and most favourite tourist destinations of the world. It is famous for its tropical beaches, buzzing nightlife  and lavish resorts. It also has one of the most famous cities of the world- Bangkok and Pattaya. Thailand is a modern as well as a cultured nation. The huge, tall skyscrapers, busy markets , food and the lifestyle here are worth watching. It has never failed to impress tourists in any possible way. You can get almost everything you want here for an enjoyable and lavish stay. An amazing fact about Thailand tourism is that one-tenth of the entire population in Thailand lives in Bangkok. This nation has contributed well towards maintaining environmental protection as well as development and urbanisation. It is also one of the most stylish countries across the world.

BEST TIME TO VISIT:  November to February is considered to be Thailand's tourist destination. In these months , the weather is dry and pleasant.

PLACES TO VISIT: 

1) Bangkok- Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and is a popular tourist destination. Thailand tourist attractions like the Reclining Buddha, sky train, Chatuchak market and the National museum are all located in Bangkok. Grand palace , Wat Arun, floating market, Chinatown and Soi Cowboy in Bangkok are some of the well known places to visit in Thailand. Known for its fancy shrines and happening street life, Bangkok in Thailand is ringed by many cities that are worth visiting.

2) Pattaya: Famous for its beaches, Pattaya is a charged up coastal city. Although Pattaya is known as a party destination and a crowded city as it is located very close to Bangkok, you can always choose to stay in Pattaya during your Thailand travel if you love to see people around you. Pattaya beach , Floating market, Jomtien beach, Walking street , Pattaya viewpoint,  Coral island, Buddha mountain and Sanctuary of truth are the famous places to visit in Pattaya.

3) Phuket: Known for its white sand, palm trees, shining seas and lively towns, Phuket is a beautiful town and has been hugely promoted by Thailand tourism. Kata beach, Freedom beach, Kata Noi beach, Surin beach and Paradise beach are the best Thailand beaches in Phuket that you should not miss on a Thailand vacation. Unlike Pattaya, Phuket is not very crowded, making Phuket the perfect place to stay with family and kids.

THINGS TO DO: Motorbiking, Rappelling, Skyscraper, water rafting, Skydiving and scuba diving in Thailand are activities that all adventure lovers can enjoy. You can go for island hopping in Krabi, and Phuket to explore more about Thailand tourism. Beaches are the first thing that comes to our mind when we think about Thailand. The beaches here are very clean and peaceful.

FOOD: Blue Elephant in Phuket, Eat Me, Bo.Lan and Green Garden in Bangkok are amongst the best restaurants to dine in Thailand. When in Thailand, try these flavoursome dishes- Pad Thai, Tom Yum soup, larb, Som Tum(spicy green papaya salad) , Pad Krapow Moo Saap (fried basil and pork) and Khao Soi. 

ACCOMODATION: The Phu resort in Pran Buri, Iniala beach house on Natai beach and Sea Rounding in Phra Thong island are the best beach hotels in Thailand with great customer reviews. Some of the best hotels in Thailand are The Seaton House in Phuket, Tropical Heaven's garden in Lipa Noi, Erawan Villa hotel, Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok and The Inside House in Chiang Mai. Hotels in Thailand will offer you each and everything you want. 

SHOPPING: Thai Silk, Thai spices, Thai Spa products , handmade bags, Thai handicraft, Thai snacks, instant noodles, Thai liquor, Tiger balm and Thai coconut oil products are some of the items you should definately shop in Thailand. Shopping in Thailand is totally a paradise.

Thailand is beautiful and a country worth visiting. The vibe and spirit of this place is amazing. Everything is so cool and charming here. You will enjoy every moment of your stay here. You will forget all your pain and sorrows and become joyful after visiting this place. There is a lot to explore in Thailand right from the beaches to the nightclubs. The nightlife is the best thing about Thailand. The streets and markets here are full of life. I will cherish each and every moment when I am in Thailand. Thailand will always be one among my favourite destinations to visit.

                                                                    MALDIVES

Maldives is a tropical island nation surrounded by the vastness of the Indian ocean. It is a place filled with abundance of natural beauty. The white sand beaches and the clear blue skies are a delight to watch. It is Asia's smallest nation in both area and population, but still boasts of being one of the most breathe taking and beautiful places across the globe. Maldives is the perfect destination for honeymoons and spending romantic moments . Its beaches are so beautiful that one would definately feel that he is in heaven after being here. The amazing ,cool weather will also put you in ease. Tourism in Maldives is filled with beaches, beaches and more beaches.  Tourists from all over the world come to visit this beautiful place. It is flourishing in the aspect of tourism and its wonderful beaches attract all people from different backgrounds and nationalities. Maldives is also a clean and a well kept nation.

HOW TO REACH: 

By air: Being a country of many islands, the most convenient way to reach Maldives is only by air. You will be landing at the Male international airport when you fly into Maldives. It is well connected to all major countries of the world. This is the only international airport of Maldives.

By rail: No railway connectivity to Maldives is possible and neither are there rail lines internally.

By sea: If you have the time and budget for luxurious travel by the sea, then take one of the international cruises that navigate the Indian ocean.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: The best time to visit Maldives is from November to April.

THINGS TO DO: 

1) Visit Maldives national museum

2) Go to Manta point for scuba diving

3) Visit the Grand Friday mosque

FOOD: In Maldives, the cuisine consists largely of rice, coconut and Garudhiya- a clear fish broth served with rice, lime, chilly and onions. You can go to the Lighthouse restaurant, one of the most stylish and well known restaurants of Maldives. You can also try Ithaa, the first all-glass undersea restaurant in the world.

SHOPPING: If you are looking for exciting souvenirs then Chaandanee Magu would be the ideal place for you with its gift shops boasting of a peculiar range of curios. Head to Majeedhee Magu to seek the best shopping experience in Maldives.

PLACES TO VISIT:

1) Sun island

2) Alimatha island

3) The Artificial beach

4) Mirihi island

5) Banana reef

6) Male city

7) Huvahendhoo island

8) Rangali island

9) National museum

10) Maldive Victory

11) Huraa island

12) Bikini beach

13) Addu city

14)  Tsunami monument

15) China Maldives friendship bridge

Getting to go to Maldives is a blessing in disguise. It is well known across the globe for its exotic islands, clear blue seas, shiny-sandy beaches, magnificent reefs and a variety of water sports. The beauty of this country is unmatchable. Along with the natural beauty , the people of Maldives should be given credit for maintaining the spot so well. The vibe here is so soothing and relaxing. I will be ready to take a trip to Maldives anytime. It shall always remain one among my favourite tourist destinations to visit.

                                                                        KOLKATA

Kolkata is popularly known as the 'City of Joy'. It is the second largest city of India and boasts of having the first  metro rail system in the country. It is a simple and well planned city. It was the former British capital of India and boasts of having an illustrious past which reflects through the fascinating art, marvellous architecture and the amazing literature of the city. It is a quite, peaceful city and the people here are simple in nature.

HOW TO GET THERE:

By air: Kolkata is connected to all the major cities in India by the Dum Dum airport.

By rail: This city is  connected to all cities in the country such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore by rail.

By road: Kolkata is connected to the neighbouring states through state highways and national highways.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: The best time to visit Kolkata is in the winter months between October and February when the climate is pleasant.

PLACES TO VISIT:

1) Victoria Memorial

2)  Fort William

3) Howrah bridge

4)  Eden gardens stadium

5) Marble palace

6) Sunderbans

7) Botanical gardens

8) Aquatica

9) Alipore zoo

10) Kalighat Kali temple

11) St Paul's Cathedral

12)  Birla mandir

13)  Indian museum

14) Birla Planetarium

15) Eco tourism park

16) Park street

17) State Archaelogical gallery

18) Salt lake

19) Academy of Fine Arts 

20) Calcutta jain temple

FOOD: Puchkas (pani puris) , Kathi rolls, Mughlai parathas, Desi Chinese, Dragon chicken, samosas,  kachoris, momos, pav bhaji, mutton Kabiraji cutlet, fish fry, Schezuan chicken are the popular food items that you should definately have in Kolkata.

SHOPPING: The Terracotta souvenirs,  conch shell bangles, Tant sarees, the immortal paintings of Kalighat, sweets, bamboo, jute and darjelling tea are the items that one must definately shop here.

Kolkata is a simple city. It comprises of a majority of the Bengali population, along with some people from the north eastern states of India such as Manipur, Assam, Meghalaya and Mizoram. Migration and urbanisation has developed the city much more .It is an important centre of trade, commerce, education and tourism. Kolkata is a city I would always love to visit.

                                                                   TARKARLI, MAHARASHTRA

Tarkarli is a beautiful beach town and a picturesque fishing hamlet in the Malvan taluka of Sindhudurg in the state of Maharashtra. It is a soothing holiday destination for the city dwellers who are looking for some cool, peaceful  and calm place away from the noise, hustle and bustle and the crowd of the cities. It is situated at a remote location away from the cities. The tranquil blue of the seas, the white soft sands of the lonely beaches bounded and surrounded by tall coconut trees are surely an admirable sight to see. Since it is a new place that is discovered , the beaches and the environment here is clean as there are fewer people in this place. Tarkarli is mainly known for providing a wide range of water sports such as snorkelling, parasailing and scuba diving. This place is popular since it is located close to Malvan and Sindhudurg which are important historical and heritage sites. Tarkarli has not seen much of urbanisation, so it is a peaceful, clean as well as a dream tourist site for tourists who head to this place. Its calm and natural surroundings is what attracts tourists to this place.

HOW TO REACH: 

By air: The nearest airport is the Dabolim international airport at Goa that serves domestic flights to many Indian cities as well as international flights. The other nearest domestic airports are at Belgaum, Kolhapur and Ratnagiri.

By rail: The closest railway stations at Kudal, Kankavli and Sindhudurg cater to trains on the Konkan region. You can book a cab or hop onto a bus from any of these stations to Tarkarli.

By road: There are several buses from Mumbai, Pune and Goa that reach Malvan. From Malvan, get a local bus to Tarkarli.

BEST TIME TO VISIT:  The best time to visit Tarkarli is winter.

THINGS TO DO: 

1) Scuba diving

2) Karli creek and Dhamapur lake

3) Beach camps

4) Burnt island

5) Birding

6) Trip to Goa

7) Hill stations

8) Bus ride to Malvan

9) Acquatic sports

FOOD: Try the Malvani cuisine which is a blend of coconuts and a variety of rich spices that adds magic to a plethora of lip smacking dishes like Murg Malvani (chicken curry), Bangda Fries and Mori masala (Shark curry) as well as Fish Koliwada and Kavda curry. Don't miss out on Solkadhi made up of Kokum and coconut milk.

SHOPPING: You can shop for fresh Alphonso mangoes , jamun, karvanda and jackfruit which are easily available in the summer months. Beachside shacks sell a plethora of seashells and conches handcrafted into wall hangings and key chains. You could also buy handmade wall hangings, lanterns and other ornamental stuff for home and to be gifted away as souvenirs.

PLACES TO VISIT: 

1) Padmagad fort

2) Rameshwar temple

3) Tarkarli beach

4) Sindhudurg fort

5)  Bhadrakali mandir

6) Shree Shivchhatrapati temple

7) Devbagh beach

8)  Malvan marine sanctuary

Tarkarli is a place meant for relaxation and refreshment. It is a place gifted with abundant natural beauty that will impress any tourist. The popularity of this place is growing day by day. Also, since it is quite close to Goa, people surely plan a trip to this place as an extra  refreshment. The vibe of this place is very peaceful as it is soaked completely in nature.  I will cherish and look forward for every trip to Tarkarli always.

                                                                      DIU AND DAMAN

The cool beaches, greenery, scenic natural beauty and most of all, its easy availability of liquor makes Daman a popular destination, especially among youths. It is one among the smallest union territories in India but boasts of having a beautiful landscape and rich flora and fauna. It is a beautiful little city, situated on the western coastline along the Arabian sea. It has a rich culture and history which can be traced back to 2000 years ago. Its beaches are the most wonderful sights you will ever see. They stand out as a symbol of immense natural beauty. Daman is also known as a cool place for shopping as a wide range of leather products, exquisite brands of liquor and handicrafted items are available in plenty.

PLACES TO SEE:

1) Devka beach

2) Mirasol lake garden

3) Lighthouse, Daman

4) Jampore beach

5) St Jerome fort

6)  Nani Daman

7) Somnath Mahadev temple

8) Mirasol water park

9) Jetty garden

10) Devka amusement park

11)  Daman Ganga tourist complex

12)  Vaibhav water world

BEST TIME TO VISIT: The best time to visit Diu and Daman is from October to April.

HOW TO REACH: Daman has no direct connectivity to the rest of India by any means. The nearest stop for both roadways and railways is Vapi in Gujarat, which is barely 13 kms from Daman. Surat is the nearest stop for the airborne travellers.

FOOD: Daman is equally enjoyable for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian preparations and offers countless options.  While there is Parsi and Gujarati food available here, the seafood is splendid and the island also has quite a street food culture.

SHOPPING: Seashell jewellery , oyster artefacts, bamboo items , electronics, leather slippers, liquor are the popular items to shop here.

Daman is a cool place to chill out with family and friends. Since it is not very well known , the environment is safe and protected here. There is no stress of urbanisation and migration so the nature is  clean and pure. But visiting this place has its own charm as there is  no noise, pollution and hustle and bustle like the other tourist spots in India. You can have your own private space as it is less crowded. Daman is a place which should surely be visited if you want to attain some inner peace and quietness.

                                                                    PONDICHERRY

Pondicherry aka Puducherry, is a city on the coast of Bay of Bengal. It is one of the most noteworthy and worth seeing places of Southern India. It was initially known for being a French colony and  you will be able to see the French styled township and architecture here. After the French rule , it was converted into a bustling Indian colony. This paved way for friendly ties between India and France. You will still get to see a strong French influence here, right from street names and sign boards, to people who speak French as fluent as Tamil. It is a wonderful vacation spot to visit with friends and family members. It is also a town of varieties and diversities in culture and cuisine. With its beautiful , clean beaches to the historic monuments of different cultures, it has become a place which is cute and delightful in  all aspects. Pondicherry will definately impress you in every way.

HOW TO REACH: 

By air: Pondicherry's domestic airport does not have a wide choice of flights. Fly by international or domestic flights to the nearest major airport at Chennai, and hit the road to Pondicherry.

By train: The Pondicherry railway station was inaugrated in 1879 and had trains running between Pondicherry and Villupuram. Today, it is a busy railway station with trains chugging in from major cities across the country.

By road: A drive along the East Coast road from Chennai to Pondicherry alongside the Bay of Bengal holds you in its sway. Drive to Pondicherry or board a bus which runs from a number of southern cities to Pondicherry.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Months from December to March are winter here and the best period to visit Pondicherry.

THINGS TO DO: 

1) Beaches

2) Learn the arts

3) Walking tour

4) Heritage structures

5) Art and craft village

6) National fossil wood park

FOOD: For a Tamil-French fusion cooking try Parisian styled cafes in the White town or French Quarters. If you want a traditional South Indian meal spread on a banana leaf, try the South Indian Messes. Tanto Pizzeria near Auroville serves Italian food and Cafe Xtasi has firewood pizzas, while Baker's Street has French pastries. Kelsang Dolma's La Casita has the most delicious Tibetan momos served in the Travellers' Cafe on the rooftop.

SHOPPING: Visit Goubert Bazaar for Pondicherry's local produce including veggies, fruits,  fish and flowers and Serenity Beach Bazaar for ceramics, handicrafts and accessories. Shop at Auroville for hand crafted musical instruments and cotton garments. Buy furnishings, antiques and designer clothes at La Maison Rose at Ru Romain Rolland.

PLACES TO VISIT:

1) Sri Aurobindo Ashram

2) French war memorial

3) Promenade beach

4) Pondicherry museum

5) Gingee fort

6) Arikamedu

7) Raj Niwas

8) Auroville

9) Manakula Vinayaka temple

10) Paradise beach

11) Seaside Promenade

12) Serenity beach

13) Botanical garden

14) Pondicherry lighthouse

15) Quiet beach

16) Rock beach

Pondicherry shall always be on my 'must visit places' list. It is a place of peace , learning as well as relaxation. I love this place because I found it's name 'Pondicherry' very cute. It is a different world of its own since it is home to so many cultures, people, nationalities and backgrounds. We will get to learn a lot from this place. Pondicherry shall always be one among my favourite places to visit.

                                                                       UDAIPUR

Udaipur is known as the 'Jewel of Rajasthan'.  It is also called as the 'city of lakes'. It is a beautiful and a heritage rich city known for its palaces, forts, gardens, lakes and romantic backdrops. It is also a popular wedding as well as a honeymoon destination in India.  Lots of Indian as well as foreign tourists make a visit to this place as it is one of the most favourable and perfect spots for tourism. The City Palace situated on the Pichola lake is one of the most remarkable sights you will ever see. The forts here are a wonderful piece of architecture and planning. Udaipur is home to Asia's largest man-made lake, the Jaisamand lake. You will feel proud to be an Indian after seeing the magnificient heritage wealth of this city.

HOW TO REACH: 

By air: Maharana Pratap airport is just 25 kms northeast of the city of Udaipur. Practically, the entire world is connected to Udaipur via indirect flights through New Delhi and Mumbai.

By rail: Trains ply daily to and from the cities of New Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Chittorgarh, Ajmer, etc.

By road: Private operators as well as Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation run inter-state buses to nearby states. If you choose to drive down to Udaipur, the national highways NH76, NH8 and  NH76 are the ones that would lead you there.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Winters here are pleasant with sunny days and cool nights. The short but distinct monsoon season in Udaipur enhances the beauty of the city with lush greens and enchanting lakes.

THINGS TO DO:

1) Visit lakes and palaces

2) Fatehprakash palace

3) Fairs and festivals

4) Dances

FOOD: Do not miss a meal for the Maharajas at the Jagat Niwas Palace hotel. The rooftop restaurant offers some of the best Indian food you will eat in Udaipur with breathtaking views of the Pichola lake and the palace.

PLACES TO VISIT:

1) Udaipur City Palace

2) Jain temple at Ranakpur

3) Shilpgram crafts village

4) Vintage car museum

5) The Crystal gallery

6) Lake Pichola

7) Fateh Sagar lake

8) Nathdwara temple

9) Gulab Bagh and zoo

10) Sajjangarh monsoon palace

11) Jaisamand lake

12) Eklingji temple

13) Haldighati

SHOPPING: Hathi Pol Bazaar, Bada bazaar, clock tower, Chetak circle , lake palace road, Jagdish temple street are some of the famous places where you can shop a variety of things.

You will get to learn a lot after visiting Udaipur. The people here are simple and very cultured and have taken a lot of effort to preserve the heritage and history of this city. The lakes , palaces and the forts here simply fascinate me. Udaipur shall always remain one among my favourite places to visit.

                                                                  MOUNT ABU

Mount Abu is the only hill station in Rajasthan. Its cool atmosphere and lush green surroundings have contributed to making it a popular tourist spot. You will surely feel good after visiting this place. Situated high on the mountains, the cool weather , the valleys and the scenic view from atop the mountains shall surely impress you. The most important attraction here are undoubtedly the Dilwara temples, which are one among the most stunning pieces of architecture in the country.  If you are a history or architecture buff, then this is one of the places you should absolutely not miss out in India.

 

PLACES TO VISIT IN MOUNT ABU:

1) Nakki lake

2) Toad rock 

3) Mount Abu wildlife sanctuary

4) Dilwara temples

5) Mount Abu sunset point

6) Nakki lake

7) Guru Shikhar

8) Raghunath temple

9) Mount Abu honeymoon point

10) Government museum

11) Champa cave

12) Nakki lake market

13) Achalgarh fort

SHOPPING: Every traveller can find various kinds of goods such as Rajasthani crafts, paintings, leather goods along with a few Gujarati artworks and many other accessories and apparels.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Although Mount Abu has a pleasant climate throughout the year, the best time to visit this place is between November and March.

FOOD: Being a popular Jain pilgrim site, there are a large number of pure veg restaurants, and you should expect little in the way of non-vegetarian food. There are a number of restaurants serving everything from local Rajasthani food to Punjabi and Chinese cuisines.

HOW TO REACH: 

By air: Udaipur is the nearest airport to the city but is still 185 kms away.

By rail:  Abu road is the nearest railway station , about  25 kms from the main city and is well connected to all major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Jaipur, etc.

By road: Mount Abu is very well connected by road to major cities . The nearest National Highway is number 14 which is 24 kms away from it.

Mount Abu is a beautiful place which attracts a lot of people from Gujarat and Rajasthan, especially. The vibe of this place is cool, away from the hustle and bustle of the cities. Since it is situated in the mountaineous region, it is very calm and peaceful. It is also a good religious place with a lovely climate, thus making it  an exactly divine place for seeking God's blessings. I would surely love to visit Mount Abu.

                                                                     KERALA

Also known as God's own country, Kerala is blessed with rivers, fertile land, backwaters, and a rich history. It has splendid natural beauty and a visit to this place will  surely make your heart and soul happy. It is so beautiful in and out that you will instantly fall in love with nature at its very first sight. Kerala should definately be in your 'must visit places' list. From the western ghats and hill stations, to its elaborate coastal towns and its famous lakes and backwaters, tourism in Kerala has a lot to offer to the wandering soul. It is the only state in India to have achieved 100% of literacy rate in education. It is also a place  where the number of females is more than the number of males. The positive thing about Kerala is that the  people have managed to maintain the natural beauty and heritage of this place. 

HOW TO REACH: 

By air: The major international airports in Kerala are located in Kochi, Trivandrum and Calicut.

By rail: Almost every part of Kerala is connected by railways, except for the ghats section (hilly terrain). Southern railways has it's own charm and the state of Kerala is throughly meshed with railway lines ensuring easy inter-state connectivity. The tickets aren't too expensive either.

By road: The state has 11 National Highways and about 70 state highways crisscrossing the terrain. There are many bus services from different states to Kerala and within the state , there is another network of state government buses.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Winter is the best time to visit Kerala as the temperatures are just perfect for a lovely vacation.

FOOD: At breakfast , you should try the Appam and the number of curry options that come with it, or Puttu, also called Bamboo cake, which is a favourite among Malayalis. You must also try out the different Tapioca preparations and the different fish curries and fries that are coastal specialities. Also, do not forget to try the coconut water in Kerala , as it is the cure to beat the heat here.

SHOPPING: From spices to honey to tea and coffee, everything that makes food taste good can be brought in Kerala. When it comes to shopping in Kerala make sure you have a big shopping bag.

PLACES TO VISIT: 

1) Alleppey

2) Kovalam

3) Kumarakom

4) Munnar

5) Kochi 

6) Trivandrum

7) Kozhikode (Calicut)

8) Varkala

9) Poovar island

10) Thekkady

11)  Wayanad 

12)  Palakkad

13) Periyar wildlife sanctuary

THINGS TO DO: 

1) Cultural destinations

2) Palaces and forts

3) Sightseeing

The pictures of Kerala itself impress me the most. I wondered if the pictures only look so good, how beautiful will it be to see those places in reality! It would be a pleasure to visit this place. Kerala is one of those places which are worth watching due to its richness in culture, natural environment, lifestyle and people!

                                                                 BANGALORE

Bangalore is known as the IT capital of India. It is the capital of Karnataka and is also known as the 'Garden city of India'. It has become an important city in the fields of education, tourism and the commercial sector. It has many lakes and parks. It is also a well planned city. Bangalore has a good metro rail system which ferries lakhs of commuters throughout the city. It has also become a good residential area now. It has managed to maintain its tradition and heritage as well as a modern lifestyle. Bangalore has also become an important city in trade and commerce. More and more people are migrating to this city for jobs, education, housing as well as tourism.

PLACES TO SEE:

1) Lal Bagh

2) Bangalore Palace

3) Cubbon park

4) Jayaprakash Narayan biodiversity park

5) Bangalore fort

6) Kempe Gowda watch towers

7) Vidhan Soudha

8) National military memorial

9) Kempegowda museum

10) Karnataka Folk museum

11) Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium

12) Ulsoor lake

13) Nandi hills

14) Bannerghatta national park

BEST TIME TO VISIT: The city enjoys a moderate climate all throughout the year. The months between September and February have the best weather conditions since it is winter.

HOW TO REACH:

By air: Bangalore airport is 13 kms east of the City station. It is connected to all major cities of India. It is also a stopover for many international flights.

By road:  Bangalore has a large bus terminus which is near the railway station. It is connected to all major cities via the highways.

By rail: Bangalore is connected by rail to all the major cities of India such as Mumbai , Delhi , Kolkata, Chennai, Kochi and Ahmedabad.

FOOD: Idli dip Sambhar, Bisi Bele Bhath, momos, Gobi manchurian, Bun Nippat, Steak, Gourmet pizzas and cold stone ice cream are the popular dishes you must try in Bangalore.

SHOPPING: Commercial street, Indiranagar market, Residency road market, Dubai market, National market , MG road are the popular places for shopping here.

Bangalore is a city worth visiting. The vibe of this city is cool. You will get to learn a lot after visiting this place. You can get almost everything that you need here. It is also a good vacation spot. I shall always love visiting Bangalore.

                                                              MANGALORE

Mangalore is another beautiful city along the coastline of Karnataka. It is the biggest port city of the state of Karnataka and is renowned for its beaches and cuisine. It was home to many colonial powers such as the Portuguese, Tipu Sultan and the British. Mangalore is also famous for its temples. It is an ideal city boasting of possessing  a traditional as well as a modern lifestyle. Passing the leisure time here with long walks at the parks, a paddleboat ride at the sea and munching the awesome, spicy seafood is the famous pastime here.

HOW TO REACH: 

By ship: Mangalore is a calling station for cruise ships from many countries around the world. Sailing a cruise ship is fun . It is well connected to all the coastal towns and cities in India as well as across the world by sea.

By air: Mangalore international airport serves domestic flights to most major cities in the country and international flights to many countries of the world.

By rail: You have access by rail to Mangalore through the Southern railway that connects the city to the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Otherwise , travel the Konkan railways running between  Maharashtra, Goa and Mangalore in Karnataka.

By road: There are KSRTC and private buses from most neighbouring states to Mangalore. It will be a pleasure driving up the coconut tree-lined roads,  with a pleasant sea breeze blowing in, along the way to Mangalore.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: The period from October to March is probably the best time to visit Mangalore. 

FOOD:  Mangalore's cuisine is deliciously varied with Manglorean fish curry, Akki roti, Neer dosa, Mangalore buns, Chicken ghee roast, the Mangalore Poli and various varieties of seafood. A piping hot Mangalore Bajje with a filter coffee goes great on a lazy winter evening.

PLACES TO VISIT: 

1) Milagres church

2) Ullal beach

3) Sammilan Shetty's butterfly park

4) Light house hill

5) Panambur beach

6) Tannirbhavi beach

7) Pabba's ice cream parlour

8) Suratkal beach

9) Suktan battery

10) Kadri Manjunath temple

11) Mangalore beach

THINGS TO DO:

1) Museum visits

2) Tour a 3D Planetarium

3) Go Trekking

4)  Beaches and birds

5) Kadri hill park

6) Fishing festival

SHOPPING: The best shopping centres include Central market, Seafood market, Dubai market and the malls in Mangalore. The top things to buy in Mangalore are electronic items, mobile repairing items, mobile phone accessories, watches, laptops, toys , clothes and cosmetics.

Mangalore is indeed a cool place to visit. The people here are simple and friendly. It has many sight seeing places with plenty of fresh air. I loved the flora and fauna of nature in Mangalore. It is a beautiful nature spot which you should surely visit. The best views of Mangalore can be seen by travelling from a car or  by a train. It's lush green patches and pastures is a delight to watch. I always love the relaxing and calm vibe and environment of Mangalore.

                              SIKKIM

The state of Sikkim sits in the lap of the Himalayas and houses  India's largest peak, the Kanchenjunga. The beauty of this place cannot be expressed in words alone. It is like entering a fairytale land. The glaciers, ice capped mountains, meadows, thick pine forests and the wild flowers is what this state is made up of. It is becoming a popular tourist destination in India as well as the world. The vibe of this place gives a lot of positivity and hope. It is a cool holiday spot as well as an important centre for learning. I will always be eager to visit this place. This place is in my bucketlist of places to watch out for.

HOW TO REACH:

By air: The closest airport to Sikkim is the Bagdora airport in West Bengal, which has frequent flights from Delhi, Kolkata and other important cities.

By rail: You have two options , New Jalpaiguri and Siliguri, both approximately 120 kilometers from Gangtok.

By road: NH 31 connects Sikkim to Siliguri. You can hire a cab or use the public or private transport bus services and enjoy the ride.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: The summer months from March to July have the most pleasant weather conditions. The winter months from September to December are also a common tourist time. During monsoons, Sikkim is quite landslide prone so the state is best avoided during that season.

FOOD: Try the Thupka (a noodle based soup) and also the momos that are quite exciting and delicious. Phagshapas (a stew of pork with chillies), Sha Phaley(bread that is stuffed with meat and cabbage), Sisnoo and Gundruk ka Jhol (a pickled leafy vegetable preparation) are among numerous other dishes which you could try.

SHOPPING: The markets here are filled with shops selling everything from the Laughing Buddha to Tibetan traditional clothes, hand woven shawls and wooden wind chimes. Shopping in Sikkim is a memorable experience with so much of diversity of cultures.

PLACES TO VISIT:

1) Yumthang valley

2) Nathula pass

3) Chungthang

4) Gangtok

5) Lachen

6) Khangchendzonga national park

7)  Gurudongmar lake

8) Mangan

9) Pelling

10) Lachung

11) Ravangla 

12) Nathang valley

      Sikkim is a land of diverse cultures. It shares its borders with three nations; China, Bhutan and Nepal. A visit to this place will always make you happy. Rested in the lap of nature, Sikkim has  such a lot of things to provide. The flora and fauna and the natural beauty of this place will always be worth watching.

                                                                   DHARAMSHALA

Dharamshala is a popular hill town located in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is well known for its scenic views of the snow clad Himalayas, lush green valleys and the soothing climate. It is one of India's most beautiful destinations which has quiet and peaceful surroundings compared to other hill stations. The HPCA cricket stadium is what Dharamshala is mainly known for. I remember my trip to Dharamshala which was calm and  one of the best moments of my life. 

HOW TO REACH: 

By air: The nearest airport to Dharamshala is at a short distance of 15 minutes from upper Dharamshala and can be reached via flights from Delhi.

By rail: The nearest railway station is located in the town of Pathankot which is connected by trains that run via Delhi.

By road: The best way to reach Dharamshala is by road as it is well connected with the surrounding towns and can be reached by bus that passes through winding hill passes. Taxis are also available from Pathankot and Delhi.

ACCOMODATION: Being a tourist town , Dharamshala has no shortage of accomodation facilities from luxury resorts to budget lounges and inns.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Dharamshala can be visited during all times of the year except for monsoons. The best time to visit is usually the autumn months of October and November because it snows which is a beautiful sight to watch.

PLACES TO VISIT:

1) Dharamshala cricket stadium

2) St John in the wilderness church

3)War memorial

4) Bhagsunag temple

5)  Gyuto Monastery

6) Dal lake

7) Dalai Lama temple

8) Tibet museum

9) Bhagsu falls

10) Tea garden

SHOPPING: Singing bowls, Buddha statues, local Tibetan handicrafts, jewellery, colourful bags, purses , carpets, tea, woolen wear are some of the popular items you should definately shop here.

Dharamshala is a place  blessed with immense natural beauty and heritage. Coming to this place felt like coming to a beautiful garden lined up with trees, bushes and flowers. I felt totally at ease after visiting here. The view of the snow clad mountains, trees and valleys from the balcony of my hotel room was the best sight I could ever see. It was so peaceful that I was in awe . I don't mind coming to Dharamshala again and again.