The temple at the core of the town of Rameswaram is called the Ramanathaswamy Temple. It is one of the most important temples in India being the second holiest place for Hindus after the Varanasi. Due to its importance, the town carries with it a carnival-like atmosphere due to the daily influx of domestic pilgrims and tourists from all walks of life. The presiding deity of this temple is in the Linga called Sri Ramanatha Swamy. The temple is also one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. It is said that the god Rama prayed to Shiva here to wash away the sin of Brahmahatya or killing of a Brahmin that he may have committed during his battle with Ravana, a demon king.

The Ramanathaswamy temple is a showpiece of South Indian architecture. Built during the twelfth century, it boasts a corridor that stretches 1,219 meters and is flanked with richly carved, 3.6-meter high granite pillars. There are around 1200 pillars in this corridor that is reputedly the longest in the world. The temple is also known for its twenty-two wells that is said to have waters that taste different from one another. Similar to other ancient South Indian temples, the temple in Rameswaram is surrounded by a high compound wall on all sides, with huge towers or Gopurams at the east and west, and gate towers at its northern and southern sides.

Another interesting part of the temple structure is the chess board-like section called Chokkattan Madapam. This is where the Utsva deities are kept and adorned during the Spring Festival or Vasntotsavam, and the Masi and Adi festivals as well.

It is a long drive to Rameswaram but the scenery during the drive and the experience at the destination is worth it. Rameswaram is connected to mainland India at Mandapam via the Indira Gandhi Bridge.

Thalay Sagar is a mountain in the western Garhwal Himalaya, located in the northern Indian town of Uttarakahand. It belongs to the Gangotri Group of mountains and is the second highest after Kedarnath. This 6,000-meter mountain is notorious for being a difficult mountain to climb, earning it the nickname of The Devil’s Red Wall. Steep on all sides, with a band of shale near the peak, and a rocky summit, the difficulty of climbing this mountain is exactly what makes it alluring to climbers.

The first group to attempt and successfully climb the mountain was an Anglo-American team in 1979. Over the years, a number of routes have been added and completed by teams from the UK, Norway, Hungary, New Zealand, USA, Australia and Russia. Despite these successes and the advancement in technique and equipment in mountaineering and rock climbing, the success rate of climbing this peak remains one of the lowest in the Garwhal.

Admittedly, the main bulk of visitors to Thalay Sagar are serious climbers. This doesn’t mean that travelers who are not into climbing mountains won’t find anything of interest here. On the contrary, the town of Uttarakhand where Thalay Sagar is located, is a very interesting and scenic place. It used to be the getaway of British colonials who wished to flee the oppressive heat of Indian summers. The houses, hotels, boarding schools, and churches that they have built are still in existence up to this day. Skiing, white-water rafting, and hiking are popular activities in this region blessed with mountains, hills, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and glaciers.

Elephant rides and photographing tigers in the Rajaji and Corbett National Parks are other outdoor options. Those of a more sedate disposition can attend yoga classes in the many ashrams that one can find especially in the Rishikesh area. Rich in nature and spirituality, a visit to Thalay Sagar is something one should at least take once in a lifetime.

Anyone with the smallest curiosity of India, its history, and with anything old enough to be in a museum shouldn’t miss a chance to visit the Indian Museum in India in the city of Kolkata. This museum is the largest museum in India, the oldest museum in the Asia Pacific region, and the ninth oldest regular museum in the world. Founded by the Danish botanist Dr. Nathaniel Wallich in 1814, it was originally located at the premises of the Asiatic Society. Since 1878, it has moved to its present location, a majestic mansion at Jawaharlal Nehru Road, around the corner of Sudder Street.

From two galleries in 1878, the Indian Museum has grown to over sixty galleries encompassing the various disciplines of Art, Archeology, Anthropology, Botany, Geology, and Zoology. The museum is a ten thousand square foot area of heaven with more than a million artifacts on exhibit for those who are into history, culture and art. In just one place, one can see dinosaur and mammoth skeletons, an Egyptian mummy that’s 4000 years old, Shah Jahan’s emerald goblet, the Buddhist stupa from Bharhut, an urn that is said to contain the ashes of Buddha, a meteorite collection, and other very rare antiques and art pieces. No wonder that the locals call it Jadu Ghar, which means, the House of Magic.

For a nominal fee, students are permitted to sketch the objects displayed in the galleries. Other visitors can take photographs though the use of additional lighting and flash is prohibited. The use of a tripod is allowed but one will have to pay a higher fee. Those who forgot to bring their cameras can avail of the services of the museum’s photo unit. For other souvenirs, there is the bookstore where plaster replicas of some displayed objects are being sold.

India boasts of many temples of the Jain faith. These temples are not only places of worship for those who practice the Jain faith, but they have also become tourist attractions because of their exotic architecture. Many temples are actually located in a pilgrimage site and people regard the whole area as a sacred place. The more prominent temples are located in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand and Gujarat.

The town of Hastinapur is considered to be one of the Jain religion’s most elaborate pilgrimage sites. In the town itself, there are at least twelve Jain temples. What sets them apart from most Jain temples is the simplicity of their architecture, a testament to the Jain qualities of prudence and integrity. Many believe that the temples here are the closest when it comes to perfection in architecture. The most popular Jain temples in Hastinapur include the Bada Mandir, where you can find an elaborate image of Bhagwan underneath the temple’s central dome. A more recent addition is the Lotus Temple, which was only completed in 1989. This small house of worship is located in a beautiful courtyard of yet another temple, the Jambudweep. There are facilities in the area for worshipers preparing for puja (prayer offering ritual).

The temples in the state of Jharkkhans are located in the picturesque and hilly pilgrimage site of Shikharji or Parasnath Hills. Most common to the temples here would be their chaumukh, or four-faced structure. Lastly, temples in Gujarat are situated in the religious town of Palitana. At least 1,300 temples are in this town, majority of them made out of marble. The collection of these small yet ornate temples is simply a site to behold.

There are only very few guides in these temples so you may just want to explore the sites by yourself. Make sure to be very respectful though and avoid going into areas without permission.

Lakshadweep Islands contains 10 or more Islands where each island has different cultures and traditions. Coconuts are mainly cultivated in these islands and these coconuts are regarded as the world’s best.

People at Lakshadweep Islands used to be Hindus. In the 14th century, people at Lakshadweep Islands were changed to Islam. Ubaidullah, an Arab saint was the person who brought Islam to Lakshadweep Islands. Recent studies have proved the existence of Buddhism in the period 6th to 7th century.

Bitra Island

Bitra Island is one of the largest islands among Lakshadweep Islands. A shrine is located on the island which is devoted to Malik Mulla (an Arab saint). The burial of Malik Mulla was took place on Bitra Island. In the present day, the shrine is a great pilgrimage place.

Kiltan Island

The Kiltan Island is the smallest among the Lakshadweep Islands. The circumference of the Island is about 3 km. Kiltan Island serves as a sea route between Sri Lanka and the Persian Gulf.

Kadmat Island

The Kadmat Island is of 8 km length. The water bodies which are shallow in depth are an attraction here and a great spot to the water sports. The resort rooms display the scenic beauty of the Island and dolphins play during the sunrise.

Amini Island

The Amini Island is the first Island to be discovered among the other Lakshadweep Islands. The shape of the Amini Island is oval and the Amini Island is known to be the safest Island which has a depth of only 10 meters. Walking sticks made with tortoise and coconut shells is a special attraction here.

Kavaratti Islands

A major tourist destination spot, the water bodies are very shallow compared to the other islands. This island is the most favorable place for water sports. The main attraction of the Island is the aquarium, which displays a wide variety of aquatic life.

Kalpeni Island

Kalpeni Island has a great scenic beauty. The tides at Kalpeni Island are very low at some seasons, so that one can walk to the Cheriyam Island from the rock structures to the Kalpeni Island. The only accommodation in this Island is the Koomel Beach Resort, consuming alcohol is prohibited in the Island.

Traveling to Lakshadweep Islands:

By water: Traveling by water is a remarkable journey, the islands are operated by several passenger ships starting from Kochi and Calicut.

By Air: – Agatti is the only island which has an airport among all the islands. There are frequent flight services from Kochi city.t

Khajuraho is a small village, which is located in the Madhya Pradesh state of India. Khajuraho is one of India’s most famous tourist destination spot and UNESCO listed the monuments of Khajuraho as a World Heritage Site. A large number of Jain and Hindu temples belonging to the medieval age are seen at Khajuraho. The temples here are famous for the sexual structures of couples, which are displayed in the temple.

Architecture

The Khajuraho temples are built in curved structures influenced by the north Indian style with a hint of Panchayatana (five methods) style. The major number of temples in Khajuraho is devoted to Jain idols and some are devoted to Hindu gods. The outside structure of the temple displays a large number of statues of couples making love.

The statues at Khajuraho

The temples inside does not contain any sexual structures close to the idol. The love making couple of structures can be seen only on the walls outside. The statues are not displayed inside the temple, because a person should leave their sexual thoughts outside.

Attractions

The architecture on the temple buildings of the Hindu idols in different positions is a highlight here. In addition, there is a show organized in the open area of the temple, which describes the architecture and history of the temple. The show is displayed twice, the first show in English and the second show in Hindi.

Traveling to Khajuraho:

By air

The Khajuraho airport is situated 5 km away from the Khajuraho city. Air India operates its services from Varanasi, Mumbai and Delhi. Jet Airways operate its services from Varanasi and Delhi. Kingfisher airways operate its services from Varanasi.

By train

Khajuraho, being a famous tourist destination is well connected with trains from all the major cities of India.

By bus

A frequent bus service is available between Jhansi and Satna cities connecting to Khajuraho, which takes about 5 to 6 hours journey. In addition, several other bus services are available from Jhansi, Harpalpur, Varanasi Agra, Gwalior, Allahabad, Bhopal, Indore Jabalpur, Satna and Mahoba.

The local transport is very easy where bikes are available on rent and Autos-Rickshaws are available in plenty which charges about 20Rs.

Kerala Backwaters is situated in the state of Kerala, India. Kerala is a great tourist destination spot and the “National Geographic Society” listed Kerala among the “lifetime 50 destinations”.

Kerala Backwaters includes a wide variety of marine life, mostly mudskippers, crabs, and several other water birds like Kingfishers, Cormorants, and Darters. The highlight at the Backwaters is the palm trees which are grown at the side of the Backwaters. Kerala is rich in tourism, which includes a number of boathouses on the backwaters, resorts and mainly the Ayurvedic treatment which is a famous ancient health care treatment. In addition, there is a Christian chapel in between the Back waters surrounded by boathouses.

Kerala Backwaters is known to be a group of 38 rivers and canals which are naturally made. These backwaters are about 900 km and lie similar to the Arabian Sea .The Kerala Backwaters are similar to Bayou (a lake in America). The water here is pure saline and the waters are formed as a result of the wave’s actions and currents in the shore among the rivers. The Backwaters contain stunning landscapes across many cities. These landscapes act as halt places for the Backwater cruises.

Among the Backwater lakes, Vembanad kayal is the biggest lake and also the longest lake in India, which covers about 200 km. The Vembanad Kayal is known to be the network of many canals.

Attractions:

Kollam
The Kollam district is known to be the Backwaters starting point. The Ashtamudi Kayal (a lake in the Kollam district) is known to be the gateway to the Backwaters.

Alappuzha
The Alappuzha is located near to the Kuttanad area, the Backwaters at the Alappuzha has a great scenic beauty, which attracts a large number of tourists. The back waters here are well-known for snake boat races, which is a traditional boat race at this region.

Kasargod
Located in North Kerala, the Kasargod is an incredible destination. The Kasargod is well known for cultivation, gorgeous landscapes and different species of birds on the Backwaters.

Thiruvallam
Located near Thiruvananthapuram (the capital city of Kerala), Thiruvallam is a great tourist destination spot with a gorgeous scenic beauty. Thiruvallam is famous for the water sports and boat clubs.

Highlights
The resorts and the Ayurvedic treatment, the traditional boat races, a wide variety of marine life and birds from different parts of the world are the highlights at Kerala Backwaters.

Traveling
After reaching Thiruvananthapuram, a number of buses are frequently available. Thiruvananthapuram is well connected by all means of transport i.e., by air, road and railways.

People who are interested in scenic photography should visit Kerala Backwaters as it is the place where one can find natural beauty, ancient body treatments and ancient traditions.

Lake Palace hotel is situated in Udaipur, in the state of Rajasthan, India. Udaipur city is regarded as “Most romantic city in India” and “Venice of the East”.

The Lake Palace hotel is situated in between Lake Pichola. The hotel comprises an area of about 4 acres. The hotel contains 83 rooms which are made of white marble. The Lake Palace is also known as one of the best hotels in India. A boat operates in between the lake transporting the visitors to the Lake Palace Hotel. In James Bond film “Octopussy” the palace was the main attraction.

History

The Lake Palace was built by Maharana Jagat Singh II (Ruler of the Jaipur City) in the year 1743 to 1746. The palace was initially built as a majestic summer palace, also known as Jan Niwas or Jaginwas after its construction. There is a huge circle in the palace’s upper room which is about 6.4 meters; it is built with white and black marble stones, in addition the palace walls are built with colored stones which are also used in the construction of Taj Mahal (one of the seven wonders in the world).

Attractions

Traveling to the Lake Palace Hotel by boat, and the early morning Sunrise is a special attraction.

Traveling to Lake Palace Hotel

Udaipur being a major tourist destination spot is well connected by air, rail, and road.

By air:

Indian Airlines operates its services from Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Jodhpur to Udaipur. Jet Airways operates daily services from Jaipur, Delhi and Mumbai to Udaipur.

By bus:

Buses from all the parts of Rajasthan state are frequently available; in addition bus services from the major cities in India are also available.

By train:

Daily train services are available in between Jaipur and New Delhi. If you are traveling from Mumbai catch the train no-2995 Udaipur-Bandra Express. If you are traveling from Delhi catch the train no-2963 Mewar Express. The trains traveling to Udaipur passes through forest areas and stunning mountains displaying a great scenic beauty.

The Mahabalipuram temples are located in the Mahabalipuram town, in the state of Tamilnadu, India. From Chennai (the capital city of the Tamilnadu State) Mahabalipuram is about 58 km.

The actual name of Mahabalipuram is “Mamallapuram” which was kept in the honor of the King Narasimha Varman I, king of the Pallava Dynasty, who has built the ancient monuments in Mahabalipuram. However, the place became popular as “Mahabalipuram” or the “Bali City”, which means sacrifice.

The Mahabalipuram has the history of about 2,000 years back, where almost forty monuments are inscribed. Mahabalipuram has become a great pilgrimage place since the 1st century attracting a large number of scholars and foreigners from all over the world.

Mahabalipuram is famous for its temples and its architecture; some of the major temples are listed below

Temples at the Shore
During the past, there are three major temples at the Bay of Bengal shore. The first temple is “Vaishnava”, which is devoted to Lord Anantasayi. The temple and the idol of Lord Anantasayi are made with a massive rock. The Saiva and Vimanas are the other temples, but these temples vanished over the years.

The Shore Temple
The Shore Temple is located to the edge of Bay of Bengal. The tides entered into the walls of the temple since 13th century. However, a single structure has not sunk in the water over the centuries.

Sthalasayana Perumal Temple
The Vijayanagar Dynasty emperors have built the Sthalasayana Perumal Temple. The Sthalasayana Perumal Temple lies on the edge of the sea. To the west of Sthalasayana Perumal Temple, five Rathas (chariots) are located, where the deity of the temple will be placed on the Rathas on festivals.

Events at the Temples
Every year the Tamilnadu government organizes the “Mahabalipuram Dance Festival”, which starts on 25th December and ends on first week of February. This festival describes about the ancient history of traditions of the Pallava Kings.
In addition, a number of dance festivals and music competitions are conducted, where musicians and dancers from all the country take part in it. Among the events Kuchipudi, Bharathanatyam, and folk dances are a special attraction.
Traveling to Mahabalipuram:

Mahabalipuram being a pilgrimage place, is connected with all means of transport.

Chennai International Airport is the nearby airport. Chennai being the capital city of the Tamilnadu state is well connected with all the parts of India and all regions of the world.

Chegalpattu is the nearby railway station, which is about 29 km, frequent train services are available from Chennai.

Frequent bus services are available from all the regions of Tamilnadu.

The Qutb Minar is located in Delhi (the capital city of India).

The Qutb Minar is a famous historical spot in Delhi, which is listed by the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Qutb Minar is built with bricks and is the tallest minaret (Islamic mosques of great architecture) in the world. The Qutb Minar is also a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture and the earliest structure during the Indo-Islamic period.

The Qutb Minar stands at a height of 237.8 feet. The length of the foundation is about 14.3 meters; the top level is about 2.75 meters in length. There are about 379 steps between the ground level and the peak level of the Qutb Minar. In addition there are fine artworks close to the Qutb Minar.

History
Qutb Minar was built in different stages at different time periods. The construction was started in the year 1193 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak (Delhi’s first Muslim Emperor); he was able to finish only the foundation part of the building. However IItutmish (the third among the Delhi Sultanate Dynasty) has built three additional floors to the existing foundation. The last two floors were built by Firuz Shah Tughlug (Muslim emperor belonging to the Tughlug Dynasty) in the year 1368. The architecture of different rulers who are involved in Qutb Minar’s construction is clearly seen in the building.

Attractions
The Qutb Minar complex comprises several other structures which include the “Iron Pillar” which was built around the third century, the Iron Pillar stands at a height of seven meters and weighs almost six tons. In addition the tomb of IItutmish (emperor of the slave dynasty) is also situated at the Qutb complex.

Traveling to Qutb Minar

The Qutb Minar is located in the heart of the city Delhi. Delhi being the capital city of India is well equipped with all means of transport. People traveling there can choose according to their interest. The readers should visit Qutb Minar, as this is the place which displays the greatest architectural styles of different emperors of the ancient past.