Land of untouched beauty, INDIA! Home to mighty mountains of Kashmir to breath taking vista of oceans at South, makes it one of the most beautiful places on earth. Exhibiting a number of natural attractions and unexplored sites at different corners of country, India is a lot more than curries and Bollywood! Picturesque valleys, historic towns, natural coastlines and rich culture of this country is enough to tempt you out to book cheap flights to India.
India’s top three destinations; Delhi, Agra and Jaipur renowned as the classic Golden Triangle is the perfect route for you to squeeze it into a week. Besides the classic, the land of diversity caters the Mughal Magic, Spiritual sites, beaches and waterways, thrilling wildlife encounters and not to forget the trekking on majestic mountains. Planning a tour to INCREDIBLE India can be mind-boggling for international travellers as this diverse land has lots to offer. Crazy, Beautiful, Overwhelming and Fantastic!
All these things collectively make India! Being one of world’s most astounding architecture, the best way to explore India’s most beautiful places is by slowing down! To extract best out of your trip, focus on a few destinations rather than ticking off as many as possible! Escape the monotonous routine, grab cheap flights for India and go out and claim your bit of the subcontinent!
India
is a land of many adventures, treasures and surprises. Though tourism
in our subcontinent is a fast growing sector but there are many special
places that only real travelers know and care about.
Here are hidden treasures in India that every traveler must visit before they die.
Laitmawsiang, Meghalaya
This
small village located in Khatarshnong Laitkroh Block of East Khasi
Hills, is the perfect hideout for people hungry for isolation in the lap
of nature.
Chettinad Palace, Tamil Nadu
Rajasthan is not the only retreat for history enthusiasts. The Chettinad Palace in Tamil Nadu is a unique amalgamation of art, architecture and tradition.
13 Arch Bridge, Kerala
The 13 Arch Bridge of Kerala is located in Kazhathuruthi in Kollam district. This architectural marvel is a sight to behold. Constructed over a century ago with just rocks, the 13 Arch is also an architectural marvel.
Tada Falls/Ubbalamadugu Falls, Andhra Pradesh
These
not so famous waterfalls of Andhra Pradesh are tucked away in beautiful
hillocks and greenery. Hikers and trekkers looking for a quiet escape
can be spotted around the falls.
Arvalem Caves, Goa
The
rock cut caves are monuments of the pre-historic life in Goa, a time of
Pandavas and Mahabharata. These caves (located 9kms south of Bicholim
Town) are now a rather recent discovery and are said to be a hide out
for Pandavas during their exile.
Jhatingri, Himachal Pradesh
Himachal
is a popular tourist destination but this little abode is situated five
kilometers from Ghatasni on way to Barot. The hill town is completely
unspoilt and is perfect for those who don’t make/like a lot of noise.
Doodhpathri, Kashmir
Doodhpathari
is considered one of the most beautiful meadows in India, and situated
only 42 km away from Srinagar a visit here is almost mandatory.
Idukki, Kerala
One
of the most beautiful districts hidden away from mad tourist crowds.
But what it is an absolutely scenic drive through forest with signs
telling you to watch out for elephants by the side of the road.
Chalakudy, Kerala
Move
away Munnar and Thekkady, if you are the explorer kind then Chalakudy
is just the place for you. It brings together hills, wildlife,
waterfalls and backwaters of Mala and Azhicode along with a stunning
Munakkal beach, all within itself.
Nagarhole National Park
Under
conseration for UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ngarhole National Park has a
reserve of wildlife and plants that will make for any photographer’s
delight.
Adalaj Stepwell, Gujarat
Known
as one of the finest examples of ancient architecture in India. The
stepwell is a historical monument that can make even the most modern
travelers stop and stare.
Maithon, Jharkhand
Want to combine your obsession of exploration with travel, the Maithon is the place you have been waiting for.
Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Goa
A
ferry ride away from Ribandar, the Bird Sanctuary is located in the
island of Chorao. During the migratory months birds come from as far as
Siberia, and are best spotted early in the morning.
Chikhaldara, Maharashtra
Kitchakdari
and Shakkal Lakes are amongst the many places of interest in this small
place. From Gawilghur Fort to ancient temples and wildlife museum,
Chikhaldara is truly a gem hidden from the popular eye.
Badami Caves, Karnataka
Hidden
in the Bagalkot district of north Karnataka, Badami Caves stand
reminiscent of the great Chalukya architecture. The town used to be a
capital of the Chalukya empire in 6th century.
The north-eastern state of Sikkim is one of the most beautiful states of India. Added as the 22nd state to the Republic of India, Sikkim was once ruled by the royal family of Sikkim. Sikkim is home to the world’s third-highest mountain peak – Mt Kanchenjunga.
The stunning Himalayan mountain, ecstatic cultural diversity, organic living, atmospheric calmness, and close-to-nature surroundings bring travelers from around the world to this stunning state. Buddhist Monasteries of Sikkim nestled on the hilltop of mountains are homes for spirituality that drive a lot of travelers to unleash the stress of their city lives.
The
stunning architecture, colorful interiors, prayer chants and serene silence of
these Buddhist monasteries of Sikkim is an overwhelming experience. While some
have become a center of learning for the children, others are dedicated to
prayers and chanting of Lord Buddha. Here are some truly revering monasteries
with the most beautiful architecture in Sikkim!
Rumtek Monastery
One
of the largest and most important monasteries in India – the Rumtek Monastery
is at a distance of 25kms from the Gangtok city. Celebrating the Tibetan
culture in its design and outlook, this beautiful monastery was built in 1960
as a seat of the Karma Kagyu Lineage. Ever since the 12th Karmapa reached Rumtek
Monastery after leaving his Tibet Seat, this monastery has become a religious
activity center of the Buddhist and is also called by the name Dharmachakra
Center. At any point of time, the monastery if full of learners and people
chanting in its arena which makes the visit quite serene and connecting. With
lush greenery on the background, the colorful appearance of the monastery
invigorates the eyes and is a pleasant experience.
Lachung Monastery
Overlooking
the large snow-capped mountains of Sikkim, the Lachung Monastery is located at
the Indo-Tibetan Border village of Lachung. Built-in 1880 at an elevation of
3000 meters over the convergence of two tributaries of Teesta River i.e.
Lachung and Lachen, this monastery in north Sikkim belongs to Nyingma sect of
Tibetan Buddhism. Holding a quaint presence in the silent surroundings of the
hills, the monastery is popular for its Buddhism prayers and activities that
keep ringing in the air of the place. With colorful flags, Tibetan
architecture, and picturesque beauty, the monastery is a stunning visit at
about 118 km from Gangtok. One of the popular traditional mask dance
performance is held every year at Lachung Monastery.
Ralang Monastery
One
of the newest additions to Sikkim Monasteries – the Ralang Monastery is one of
the biggest monasteries in Sikkim made with the intricate art of Tibetan
architecture. A short ride away from Ravangla (South Sikkim), this monastery
combines the traditional values of Buddhism by following the Tibetan Buddhist
Traditions and brings along a stunning beauty of the colorful exterior. With
Mountains on the background and colorful Tibetan architecture on the front
decorated with Tibetan flags, Sikkim Tourism is incomplete without visiting this
monastery as it is known for its extensive collection of paintings, and
thangkas. Owned by Kagyu Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, the monastery is known to
hold an annual festival Pang Lhabsol where the Kagyed Dance is performed by the
Buddhist monks. It is one of the popular tourist destinations to visit in
Sikkim.
Permayangtse Monastery
An
important religious center on the hilltop of Peiling, the Permayangtse
Monastery is located at an elevation of 2085 meters. Holding to the beauty of
its 300-year-old structure, the monastery is in the highlight of golden and
white with stunning Tibetan art and architecture. The pillars are inscribed
with ancient manuscripts and the whole interior is a woodwork art making it a
serene and blissful experience. The arena is also covered with Buddhist flags
and greenery. While the monastery celebrates Buddhism faith and breathes into
silent nuances of the Tibetan prayers, it also offers a panoramic view of the
whole valley with a peak of snow-capped Mount Kanchenjunga.
Dubdi Monastery
Built-in
1701 A.D. the Dubdi Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries of Sikkim. At a
short distance of 3kms of the town Yuksam (West Sikkim), this monastery is
located on a hilltop at an elevation of 6900 meters. The monastery is popular
for its statues of the three lamas and close-to-nature beauty. Designed much in
line with the Tibetan monasteries, the colorful structure with woodwork,
intricate Tibetan scripts, colorful additions, and stone-carved statues is
quite an enchanting visit. Being one of the oldest monasteries belonging to
Nyingma Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, the monastery holds firm the beliefs of the
Buddhist traditions and thus is quite a destination to know the Tibetan culture
up close.
Phodang Monastery
Being
a part of the three monasteries build in the 1960s under the guidance of the
9th Karmapa of Karma Kagyu lineage, the Phodang Monastery with Rumtek and
Ralang is one of the must-visits in Sikkim. The murals, relics, artifacts and
artistic design of the monastery capture the essence of the old-age Tibetan
cultures. The Phodang Monastery resonate beauty with its colorful but intricate
architecture, wooden dome, and scripts from the Buddhism beliefs. It is one of
the popular learning centers too.
Tashiding Monastery
Built
by Ngadak Sempa Chempo Phunsok Rigzing and founded in 1616 the Tashiding
Monastery is widely popular for its beauty and architecture. Ngadak was one of
the three holy men said to hold the crowning ceremony of the first king of
Sikkim. Today the monastery belongs to Nyingma Sect and is also one of the most
pristine and stunning monasteries of Sikkim. On the top of a hill, the complex
of Tashiding Monastery is known to have several Buddhist Shrines (Chortens)
within the complex. The never-ending chants of the Tibetans here keep the
surroundings filled with blissful vibrations making the experience of a visit
to this monastery a truly satisfying one.
Sikkim being Buddhism inspired state experiences a lot of Tibetan architecture, and lifestyle. To connect with the life of Sikkim, and unleash in a serene surrounding these monasteries are a perfect getaway. Make the most of your vacay in Sikkim by spending a day learning the Buddhist Culture and traditions in one of these celebrated monasteries.
Himachal Pradesh is a beautiful state
situated in northern India. It can be easily and fondly referred to as the
Switzerland of India and it is often called ‘Devbhumi’ or ‘the land of Gods’.
Himachal Pradesh has the best of nature with its sleepy old towns, some of them
painted with colonial colours, sparkling streams, gushing waterfalls, holy
temples, artistic monasteries, snow-capped mountain ranges and thick forested
valleys and meadows.
Along with the pristine natural beauty combines the unbroken peace and solitude that makes Himachal Pradesh an idyllic tourist destination. The rain-washed fresh beauty and wet, misty air that abounds make Himachal in the monsoon season an absolutely enticing getaway. The mountain ranges and forests of Himachal Pradesh look stunning in monsoon. The streams and rivers getting fed by monsoon waters gurgle down with more furore.
Dramatic Dharamshala
Dharamshala is an enchanting land of Lamas and scintillating monasteries. Dharamshala is internationally acclaimed as Dalai Lama’s residence. It is situated at an altitude of 1,775 metres. Dharamshala is cosily shrouded by a thick curtain of ancient, misty, towering Deodar trees.
The sleepy town exudes peace and calmness that sets your soul at peace.
The Bhagsunag waterfalls of Dharamshala pumps up and roars down with an
extra force and is a pleasure to visit during the monsoons. Visit the
greenery of the Namgyal Monastery, Tsuglagkhang Complex of Dalai Lama
Temple, Norbulingka, St. John in the Wilderness, his Holiness the Dalai
Lama Temple and the mesmerizing Dal Lake.
Kasol
Kasol is famed as the ‘Little Island of Israel’. It is a captivating
place in the Kullu valley of Himachal Pradesh and a delight to visit in
monsoons with friends and family. This hill paradise is located on the
banks of the charming river Parvati and will bewilder you with its
serene beauty. Feel the beauty of the village dressed in fresh green and
enjoy the Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, binge on authentic Israeli
cuisine, go shopping along the Kasol streets and try the famous rice
beer. Stroll along the picturesque banks of River Parvati which swells
up in the monsoon season and unwind in the best manner possible.
Shoghi
Nature lover’s haven Shoghi attracts travellers
during monsoon with its deep cover of giant pine and oak trees. The beauty of
Chadwick Falls in monsoons is mesmerizing. This fall is locally known as Chidku
(bird) Jhaar (waterfall) which depicts the height of the waterfall as it is
believed that the upmost level can only be reached by a bird.
Situated just 13 kilometres from the capital of
Himachal Pradesh, Shimla, Shoghi was once the summer capital of British India.
The Kalka-Shimla Heritage Toy Train connects Shoghi very comfortably to the
other big cities. And the toy train ride to Shoghi is an experience in itself.
Khajjiar
Khajjiar is an extremely relaxing destination of Himachal Pradesh for a vacation during monsoons. Khajjiar’s beauty arises from the majestic mountain ranges and dense deodar forests that surrounds this hill town. So impeccable is its beauty that Khajjiar is often referred to as ‘The Mini Switzerland of India’.
This impeccable town is the home to the famous
ancient Khaji Nag Temple established in the 12th century. Khajiar’s exquisite
charm is enhanced by the emerald coloured, placid Khajjiar Lake that fills to
the brim during monsoons and creates a dreamy haze. The lake blushes with monsoon
waters and the reflection of the majestic mountain ranges and forests on the
waters adds to the charm. Chamera Lake too contributes to the monsoon glory of Khajjiar.
Mashobra
Drink in the freshness and natural beauty of
Mashobra, a lush green expansive meadow at a height of 7700 metres perched on
the higher altitudes of Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh. Breathe in the crisp and
clean mountain air, explore the valley leisurely and visit the Mashobra Reserve
Forest Sanctuary which is a bird watcher’s haven and enjoy wildlife.
Try to locate chikor or the partridge hiding behind
monsoon greenery and discover the magic of this fairyland. Taste the jams,
squashes and pickles infused with the local flavours of Mashobra and have a fun
filled monsoon vacation.
Shimla
Shimla, the regal capital of Himachal Pradesh, exhibits a rich colonial history and culture. It is justly called the Queen of Hills and possesses a majesty mixed with old-world charm. Monsoon vacation in Shimla translates to discovering the sweet aromas and flavours of Himachal dishes, shopping at the bustling streets of Shimla malls and bazaars, taking in the breath-taking view of nature and its splendour and carving out a dream vacation in monsoons.
Step out to explore the famous Christ Church, gorge on best of classy
food at the jazzy restaurants and cafes. The steaming hot coffees and
yummy snacks to go with it will make monsoon delightful in Shimla with a
perfect view of the snow-capped Himalayas and the surrounding greenery.
Mcleodganj
Mcleodganj is an enchanting place to visit in Himachal
during the monsoon season. This mountain paradise known as ‘Little Lhasa’ or
‘Dhasa’ has a large bunch of Tibetan population and contains some of the best
monasteries in India. Namgyal Monastery and Tsuglagkhang are worth visiting to
enjoy the solitude of the mountains. Mcleodganj has some of the best street
side cafes and relish the local food to enjoy a grand monsoon vacation. Visit
the Masroor Temple, the swollen Bhagsu Falls, picturesque Nechung Monastery,
Guna Devi Temple and the St. John’s Church. Vipassana Meditation Centre will
offer you the eternal solitude and peace. Also visit the Pong Dam Lake or the
Maharana Pratap Sagar artificial lake and feel the allure of the mountains.
Monsoon visit to Himachal amply brings out the mountain mysticism. Plan a remarkable monsoon vacation to the hills if you haven’t yet. The monsoon magic of Himalayas with the carpet of towering deodar trees and the enchantment of lakes and waterfalls, view of the serene mountain ranges and the holiness of the famous temples and monasteries lend an extra dimension to holidaying in Himachal.
