Popular

Mysore

State

Mysore, the second largest city in the state of Karnataka, is well known for its history and culture. At an altitude of 770m above sea level, the city of Mysore is at a distance of 140 km from Bangalore. The city is famous for its exquisite temples, pilgrimage centers, surrounding forests, palaces, sandalwood and silk.
According to Hindu mythology, Mysore got its name from the buffalo headed demon, Mahishasura. In the past the place was called Mahishur. It is said that the demon was killed by the Goddess Chamundeshwari and a temple is dedicated to the Goddess on Chamundi Hills.

History

According to Hindu mythology, the area around Mysore was known as Mahishūru and was ruled by a demon, Mahishasura. The demon was killed by the Goddess Chamundeshwari, whose temple is situated atop the Chamundi Hills. Mahishūru later became Mahisūru and finally came to be called Maisūru, its present name in the Kannada language. The anglicised form of the name is Mysore. In December 2005, the Government of Karnataka announced its intention to change the English name of the city to Mysuru. This has been approved by the Government of India but the necessary formalities to incorporate the name change are yet to be completed.

Accessibility

Air: Mysore has a small domestic airport which is connected to Bangalore. Bangalore is also the nearest international airport which is at a distance of 140 km away from Mysore. There are regular flights to Bangalore from all the major cities in India. Bangalore is connected to many international cities as well. Taxi services are available from Bangalore to Mysore which costs about Rs 3000.

Rail: Mysore railway station is connected to Bangalore, which is 140 km away. Bangalore is well connected to all the other cities in India. Taxi services are available from Bangalore to Mysore which costs about Rs 3000.

Road: There is an excellent bus service provided by Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation. Vanities of tourist buses are available from Bangalore to Mysore and fare is about Rs 4 to 5 per km.

Shopping

Mysore is famous for carved sandalwood and ivory products, inlay works, silk sarees and incense (agarbatti). Main shopping area in the city is on Sayaji Rao Road. The Cauvery Arts and Crafts Emporium on Sayaji Rao Road is the one of the most popular shops of Mysore. Here you will find the whole range of arts and crafts. There are many other crafts shops along Dhanvantri road, some of the them specialise in ivory chess sets. The best buy includes the carved sandalwood images of Indian deities which retain their scent for years. You can also stroll down Devraj Urs Road, the main shopping hub of Mysore, visit various shops for the famous Mysore silk sarees.

Shopping in Mysore is a fantastic experience. Rich tradition of handloom and handicrafts, colorful local bazaars and warm-hearted people would make your shopping in Mysore a treasured memory. Outstanding souvenirs, delightful gift items or personal possessions - whatever you wish to buy, there are abundant options available in Mysore.

Shopping in Mysore would be a real experience. The warmhearted people and the conventional handloom varieties and the different handicrafts are food for the eye.

Mysore silk saris are hot favorites among Indian women. Silk saris come in vivacious colors and beautiful designs and purchasing one or two saris is traditional among the tourists of Mysore. Numerous sole private shops are scattered around the Devaraja Market that borders the principal Sayyaji Rao road. Government Silk Weaving Factory and the Government Sandal Oil Factory have their retail shops in the city markets.

The most popular item for shopping in Mysore is the silk saris. Silk saris are huge favorites with the Indian women and are believed to reveal the feminine grace most perfectly. Vibrant colors and exquisite motifs adorn the silk saris of Mysore. A piece or two must feature in your shopping cart in Mysore.

Sandal woodcrafts are yet another hot favorite with those who go for shopping in Mysore. Mysore grows one of the finest varieties of fragrant sandal wood from which the ace craftsmen chisel out exquisite artifacts. From arty souvenirs to utilities or objets d'art - the sandalwood crafts may leave you spoilt for choice while shopping in Mysore. You may also choose to buy some authentic sandal wood oil that has phenomenal healing and cosmetic quality and is widely used in Ayurveda.

Several other traditional handicrafts of the state of Karnataka are available in the shops of Mysore. Beautiful woodcarvings, Bidriware, Metalware, Stone Carvings and Mysore paintings may lead you to a shopping spree in Mysore.

Numerous exclusive private shops dot around the Devaraja Market that skirts the main Sayyaji Rao road.

Accommodation

There are a large number of hotels in Mysore. From pompous luxury to great value for money and to cap it all the heritage palaces now opened for tourist accommodation in Mysore- hotels in Mysore offer you a range of choices.

A rich cultural heritage blends perfectly with opulence in the luxury and heritage hotels in Mysore to offer you charming glimpses of glorious past of India. Splendid architecture, idyllic location is complemented by lavish comfort.

Mysore is dotted with plenty of hotels ranging from deluxe to economy class hotels. Being a major tourist centre, Mysore has a number of western-style hotels, the majority of them are equipped with modern facilities and offer pleasant stay to guests. Some of the popular hotels of the city are Lalitha Mahal Palace, Quality Inn Southern Star, Kings Kourt, Best Western Ramanashree, Mayura Hoysala, Mysore Dasprakash, Sandesh The Prince etc.

Here are a few selected hotels in Mysore:

Luxury Hotels in Mysore

Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel (Heritage)
The Viceroy Hotel
Hotel Ramanashree

Budget Hotels in Mysore

Nalapad Residency
Kings Kourt Hotel
Hotel Southern Star

Attractions

Ayudha Pooja
It is a part of the Dassara celebrations. All vehicles and implements are worshipped on this day. The nine-day celebrations culminate in the grand Dassara procession on Vijayadashami, the day of victory. The Dassara procession begins at the Palace with uniformed soldiers, horses, caparisoned elephants, dancers and floats accompanied by brass hands playing evocative Indian melodies. The Palace Guard and Mysore Lancers march past as graceful folk-dancers twirl and swirl between the floats. A majestic elephant adorned by golden anklets, bell and chains carries the city's patron goddess, Chamundeshwari in a 'howdah'. This extravagant celebration comes to an end with a torchlight parade by the State Police, as fireworks light up the night sky.

Mysore Dussehra : Dussehra is the most popular festival of Mysore city and local people celebrate this festival with great pomp and enthusiasm. Every year during the months of October - November, the Dussehra festival is celebrated in Mysore. Dussehra in Mysore is famous for keeping alive the royal traditions. Lakhs of people from all over the world visit Mysore during Dussehra to see the procession of king, soldiers and elephants. Richly caparisoned elephants, liveried retainers, cavalry, the gaudy and flower-bedecked images of deities, make their way through the streets of Mysore. It's a real extravaganza and you shouldn't miss if you are anywhere in the area at this time of the year.

Things to do

Planet X: The largest family entertainment center in South India and the first such center of Mysore is the Planet X.

It is cuddled at the foot of the beautiful Chamundi Hills and is 5 km away from the Mysore Zoo. It is set over an area of 6 acres. This center has bowling alleys and carting facility. Snooker, billiards with a mini golf course also forms a part of the entertainment center. It also has video games. Besides this, a coffee shop is also located in the center.

The entertainment center is open from 4 pm to 11 pm from Monday through Saturday and from 12 pm to 11 pm on Sundays.

STD Code
0821
Best time to visit
October to March
Famous For
Sandalwood, Silk

Kasauli

Kasauli, also known as "The Land Of Fascinating Vistas", is a charming hill station developed by the British before India gained its independence. The place is endowed with immense natural beauty with amazing churches and bungalows built during the British rule in India are some of the amazing attractions of Kasauli. It is a quiet little hideaway in the Shivalik Hills near Shimla, attributes its origin to the mythological tale which goes that the site of town was formed from the foot-print of Hanuman as he was leaping to pick the Sanjeevi Herb from nearby Sanjeevi hill.

History

The calm and peaceful air of Kasauli belies any sense of history. Yet this region was in the thick of the westward Gurkha expansion, stemmed with some difficulty by the joint efforts of the British and some local chieftains, in 1814. The Gurkha ceded the fort at Sabathu and this was turned into a convalescent home for British nationals. Some time later the Governor-General, Lord Amherst, decided to develop Shimla Hills as a summer gateway for the British establishment and Col. Tapp, political agent at Sabathu, came to survey the Kasauli area.

The 1857 Indian War of Independence stirred the hearts of the Kasauli Guard, numbering about eighty Indian soldiers. Receiving news that the Gurkha Regiment at nearby Jutogh has also risen in revolt, the garrison at Kasauli set out to join them. Before the two could combine and pose a serious threat, the British agent talked the Gurkha Regiment into submission, on promise of a general pardon. The Kasauli Guard found themselves completely isolated. So far from being pardoned, they were severely punished for their insurgence.

Accessibility

Air: The closest airport is at Chandigarh, which is 67 km away. Taxis are available to Kasauli from Chandigarh and it cost about Rs 1500. Chandigarh is connected to many airports in India, including Delhi, Srinagar, Mumbai and Kolkata. International travelers have to get connection flights from Delhi International airport, which is nearly 300 km away from Kasauli.

Rail: The closest rail head is at Kalka, which is about 35 km away from Kasauli. Pre paid taxis costs about Rs 750 from Kalka to Kasauli. Kalka is very well connected with all major cities in India like Amritsar, Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai.

Road: State owned transport buses connect Kasauli to many cities in and around. Super fast and super deluxe buses have stop at Kasauli, which are plying from Chandigarh to other major cities in the state.

Shopping

There is not too much shopping to be had here. In season buy the fresh fruit jams - plum, strawberry and cherry. Other than that there is a small Tibetan market where you can pick up bric a brac.

Locally made jams, pickles and preserves are available. Shawls, woolens and some handicrafts are sold in the shops above the bus stand.

Accommodation

There is a PWD rest house and a number of private hotels. There is also the HPTDC run Hotel Ros Common, which is very popular.

Kasauli is not as commercial as Shimla, so options for accommodation are relatively fewer in number. Kasauli has a few upmarket hotels like the Kasauli Resorts and a couple of others like the Baikunth Resort where tariffs range between Rs 2,500 and Rs 5,000 per night. There are also a number of mid-rung and budget properties. Many resorts and hotels in Kasauli offer highly discounted off-season rates.

Things to do

Camping

Kasuali has some camping sites for those who love the outdoors. At Dagshai there are such camps and it is an invigorating experience to get one with nature!

Nature Walks

For the not so adventurous traveller, explore the area around Kasuli by going for walks and taking in the scenic views. One of the delightful nature walks one could take would be from the Lower mall area to Kimmughat. If you want to go further afield, there is a trail that goes from Old Kasauli Road to Parwanoo. Ofcourse the 1.5 km long Sanawar-Mandudhar trail is the best walk in the vicinity as it goes through wooded areas and gives you panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

Paragliding
Paragliding At Dagshai 12 kms away from Kasuali it is possible to go paragliding - so get your adrenaline flowing and head to this old British cantonment for a bit of adventure!

Trekking
Kasauli has some great trekking routes for the energetic traveller. The trek from Kasauli to Jabli is 9kms long and will afford panoramic views of the hills around. There are a number of treks to Kalka and Garkhal too.

Birdwatching:

District
Solan District
STD Code
01792
Termperature
Summer 8 to 30°C, Winter -10 to 10°C
Best time to visit
April to September

Dharamshala

Dharamsala,often known as "Little Lhasa", is established by the British between 1815 and 1849 as a hill station. The place gained popularity only after 1959 when the Dalai Lama and other Tibetan refugees fled to India and were offered to stay at Dharamsala by the Government of India and popularly known as the residence of the Dalai Lama and a center of Tibetan Buddhism.

History

Once a British hill resort, its importance declined and it became a sleepy little hill town. Founded by the British between 1815 and 1847, Dharamshala remained a low-profile hill town till the influx of Tibetan refugees along with the Dalai Lama since October 1959. India welcomed the religious leader and offered him and his people sanctuary and a place to stay in Dharamshala. Ever since, a continuous flow of refugees has transformed the town into a miniature Tibet with Buddhist temples, schools, crafts organisations, meditation centres, library and medical centre. The upper area of McLeodganj was founded in 1848 and named after David McLeod, the Governor of Punjab. Today though, there is little that remains as reminder of its British association.

Accessibility

Air: Gaggal airport in Kangra valley is the nearest airport. The airport is 12 km away from Dharamsala, which costs about Rs 350 by Taxi cab. This airport connects domestic flights to Delhi. International travelers have to get connection through Delhi Airport, which is about 520 km away from Dharamsala. Delhi Airport is connected to all major cities in India and most of the foreign cities.

Rail: Nearest railway station is Kangra Mandir at a distance of 22 km from Dharamsala. All trains won’t stop here. The major rail junction is Pathankot, which is about 85 km away from Dharamsala. Pathakot is well connected to all major cities in India.

Road: Regular bus services are available in Dharamsala connecting the nearby cities. Direct private luxury buses are available from Delhi (520 km), costing about Rs 1600.

Shopping

Shopping in Dharamsala is a delightful experience for tourists. Among the variety of items, the local handicrafts of Dharamsala are very popular. Visit the town's famous Kotwali Bazaar for local handicrafts, Tibetan handicrafts, carpets and several other items.

The shopping areas selling Tibetan handicrafts items are mostly in McLeodganj. The Green Shop run by the Tibetan Welfare Office sells recycled products and handmade cards and paper. Other shops and outlets have a range of handicrafts products including woollens, carpets, metalware, thangkas and jewellery.

The popular items for shopping in Dharamsala are: wooden carvings, silk and woven woolen scarves and Tibetan handicrafts.

Like all Himalayan regions, Dharamsala also has dense forests abundant in wood. Exquisite handicrafts fashioned out of wood, bamboo and cane would definitely arrest your attention. Check out the diverse artifacts and utilities while shopping inn Dharamsala.

Woven woolen garments available here are warm and comfortable. Sweaters, cardigans available in trendy designs and reasonable prices, should feature in your shopping list in Dharamsala.

The Tibetan community has a tradition of handicrafts, which are available in profusion. Look for the trinkets and knick-knacks, which serve well for personal use, gifts and interior decoration.

Jogibara Road is the main place for shopping in Dharamsala.

Accommodation

There are several private hotels and tourist lodges in both areas of Dharamshala and Macleodganj with the latter being preferred by tourists.

The Grace hotel and the Royal Palace Resort in Macleodganj and the karnika Resort in Dharamshala are popular choices for accommodation.

Plenty of accommodation options are available in Dharamsala that includes HPTDC's hotels, private hotels, guest houses, PWD and forest rest houses. All the hotels in Dharamsala are equipped with contemporary facilities and provide a comfortable stay to guests.

Deluxe Hotels : Asia Health Resorts, Grace Cottage, Anand Palace, Surya Resort, Spring Valley Resort.

Heritage Hotels : WelcomHeritage Grace Cottage (Kotwali Bazaar), White Haven Estate (Chilgarhi).

Standard Hotels : Hotel Dhauladhar (Kotwali Bazaar), Hotel Bhagsu (McLeodganj), Hotel Kashmir House (Khara Danda Road), Chonor House (McLeodganj), Hotel Tibet (McLeodganj), Yatri Niwas, Clouds End Villa, Him Queen (McLeodganj), Banjara Camp (Bhagsu Valley) etc.

Fantastic landscape and the association with His Holiness Dalai Lama make Dharamsala a coveted destination. The quaint sleepy monasteries and ever-smiling people would cast a charming spell upon you here.

Although a hill station, it is very different from the other hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. There are a good number of hotels in Dharamsala. But if you look for world-class opulence and the five star luxuries, you might get disappointed.

Arranging accommodation in Dharamsala is not a problem at all. There are both luxurious and budget hotels in the place, catering to all the visitors. Some of them are:

Asia Health Resorts
Royal Palace Resort
Snow Hermitage Resorts
Anand Palace Best Western
Anupam Resort
Spring Valley Resort
Club Mahindra Kangra Valley Resort
Nishaad Resorts
White Heaven Estate
Grace Cottage

Most of the hotels in Dharamsala are rather economy class hotels, which offer decent accommodation, clean premises and hygienic food. Prices are sure not to burn a hole in your pocket. In some of the leading hotels in Dharamsala you can also find swimming pool, good restaurants with bar and arrangements of recreation and amusement.

Things to do

Adventure Activities: Dharamsala and the area around provide an ideal base for a variety of adventure sports. Himachal's Mountaineering Institute has a branch at Dharamsala, which offer mountaineering equipments and training courses as well. The Dhauladhar ranges located close to Dharamsala offer a huge variety of trekking options and rock climbing.

Fishing: Fishing or angling remains a favourite leisure activity of those who visit Dharamsala. Visit the 20 km stretch of the river Beas between Nadaun and the Pong Dam to enjoy the fishing.

Trekking
Dharamshala is also the base for trekking in the forested Dhauladhar range, for which equipment can be hired here. The best season for treks is from April till June and again between September and October.

District
Kangra District
STD Code
01892
Termperature
Summer 8 to 30°C, Winter -10 to10°C
Best time to visit
Mid-May to Mid-October

Shimla

Shimla, first discovered by the British Captain Charles Kennedy in the early 19th century, is a popular hill station built over several hills and connecting ridges. After independence, Shimla became the capital of Punjab and in 1966 it came under the state of Himachal Pradesh and became its capital. The town of Shimla is built over several hills and connecting ridges and was the Summer Capital of India during the British rulling era and they called Shimla "the queen of hill stations". It combines the luxury of being a hill station as well as a city.

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History

The History of Shimla dates back to the year 1819. Before that Shimla was under the rule of the Gurkhas. It was after the Gurkha War that the British soldiers founded a dense forest near the temple of Goddess Shyamala and gave it the name Shimla.

But some historians contradict it saying that Shimla is derived from the word “Shyamalaya” meaning the blue house based on a house built by blue slate by a fakir.

The Story of Shimla would not have been there if the Britishers had not discovered it. It was only in 1819, that the then Assistant Political Agent of Hill States, Lt. Ross built the first British residence- a wooden one. Later Lt.

Charles Patt Kennedy followed him by building a two storey pucca house named “Kennedy House”. After 1830, Shimla became the hot spot among the Britishers. For men it was the favorite hangout to rejuvenate after the Gurkha War while for the women it was a relief from the hot and humid climate as well as mosquito-invaded plains.

An account of Shimla History would be incomplete without the different names such as “Viceroy's Shooting Box, Abode of the Little Tin Gods and Mount Olympus” given to it by the Britishers. But the most famous of all was “the Queen of all Hills”.

It was due to this fascination of the Britishers for Shimla that it was made the “summer capital” in 1864.

After the Independence, Shimla was made the capital of Punjab, but in 1966 it was named as the capital of Himachal Pradesh.

Accessibility

Air: Shimla’s Jubbarhatti Airport is nearly 23 km away from the heart of the city. Taxi is available from airport to City and fare is about Rs 450. the airport is connected to Delhi airport by daily flights. Delhi International airport is the nearest major airport. Delhi airport is connected to all major cities in India and many cities abroad. The distance of Shimla to Delhi is about 357 km. A/C taxi services are available from Delhi to Shimla, costing about Rs 7500.

Rail: Shimla has a meter gauge railway station. It connects to the nearest broad gauge station at Kalka, which is at a distance of 80 km from Shilmla. Taxi services are available from Kalka to Shimla and charge is about Rs 1750. Kalka is well connected to all major cities in India by rail.

Road: HRTC buses offer bus connectivity from all cities in Himachal Pradesh to Shimla. Frequent ordinary and deluxe bus services are available from Delhi to Shimla. Deluxe buses charge about Rs 1300 from Delhi to Shimla.

Getaways
Shopping

The main shopping areas are along the Mall, the Subzi Mandi and the Lakkar Bazaar. The Himachal Emporium of the state government is on The Mall. It sells handicrafts items from all over the state, including woollen garments, embroidered handicrafts, carpets and jewellery. Lakkar Bazaar is famous for its wood crafts, while the Tibetan market near Kusumpti, about 6 kms from the centre sells traditional Tibetan wares.

Other popular items for shopping in Shimla are woolen shawls and caps. Weavers in the Kullu Manali region weave colorful caps on their looms, which are highly favorite with the tourists visiting this region.

In fact Shimla, to much extent specializes in woolen garments. Try to pick up Kinnauri mufflers, scarves, embroidered handkerchiefs, hand-knitted socks and gloves while shopping in Shimla.

You would also find lots of Tibetan handicrafts for shopping in Shimla, which make their way to Shimla. Buddhist style curios, antiques, Feng-Shui elements are also available in abundance. You may also include carpets, rugs, leather craft and silver jewellery in your shopping list in Shimla.

The Mall is the best place foe shopping in Shimla. Numerous shopping joints literally dot the area. Alongside the government run emporia, several other private outlets offer great shopping in Shimla.

Lakkar Bazaar: Adjoining the Ridge, lakkar Bazaar is a marketplace which offers wooden articles targeted mainly towards tourists. The handcrafted wooden items are truly worth the money and sell like hot cakes. Tourists take them back as a souvenir of their trip. Lakkar Bazaar is also famous for its dry fruits and natural herbs.

Apart from the usual shops the market also has a roller skating rink and the state hospital known as Indira Gandhi Medical College and hospital. Many hotels such as Hotel White and Diplomat Hotel are famous of lakkar Bazaar.

Lower Bazaar:

Accommodation

Shimla hotels are of various types like luxury hotels, deluxe hotels, budget hotels, resorts and cottages. Moreover, many hotels here offer honeymoon packages to tourists, since Shimla is a popular honeymoon destination too. Mall Road and Kufri-Chail Road have some of the reputed hotels here.

Premium Hotels in Shimla

Wild Flower Hall
Woodville Palace Resorts
Springfields

Budgeted Hotels in Shimla

Quality Inn Himdev
Ashiana Regency
Hotel Honeymoon Inn

Attractions

Summer Festival
The Summer Festival is celebrated every year to herald the coming of summer to the region. It is held every year from 2-6 June and is a popular vent attracting many visitors. As part of the Festival, food fests, painting competitions, flowere shows and cultural shows are held.

Things to do

Ice Skating

A popular winter sport, Ice Skating in Shimla usually starts in early December and continues till late February. During these months two skating sessions are organized per day, in the morning hours and in the evening. But, if the skies are clear and temperatures are low, several uninterrupted sessions can be organized here. Every year large number of adventure enthusiasts visit the town of Shimla to undertake the sport.

In Shimla, the ice-skating club has a huge rink with an open area covered with naturally frozen ice. This rink is situated at a distance of just 10 minutes from the Mall and is the oldest natural open ice skating rink in Asia. For this skating rink, memberships are available for the whole season as well as for shorter duration and you can even gain membership for a single session. Skates are also available at the rink, so you don't need to carry the skating gears on your own.

At the Shimla Ice-Skating rink, you can enjoy the variety of skating like figure skating, speed skating etc. Besides, every season, various fancy-dress carnivals, ice-hockey and dances enliven the atmosphere of Shimla.

District
Shimla
STD Code
0177
Termperature
Summer 14-20°C, Winter -7-10°C
Best time to visit
March-June and September-November

Manali

Manali, once called the "end of the habitable world," is an important hill station of northern India spread along the banks of the river Beas. The place derived its name from Manavalaya meaning the abode of Manu or "Home of Manu" and here, the temples are treated as pilgrimages. anali is also famous for adventure sports like skiing, hiking, mountaineering, para gliding, rafting, trekking, kayaking, and mountain biking.

History

According to the Hindu mythology, Manali was the home of the lawgiver Manu (after whom the town is named). Legend has it that when a flood deluged the earth, Manu and the gods were towed to dry ground by a giant fish, which was the seventh `avatar'' of the god Vishnu.

Manali has a pre-historic legend behind its name. Vaivasvata, the seventh incarnation of Manu, the first creation according to Hindu mythology, found a tiny fish in his bathing water. The fish told him to look after it with devotion, for one day it would do him a great service. The seventh Manu cared for the fish until it grew so huge that he released it into the sea. Before departing, the fish warned Manu of an impending deluge when the entire world would be submerged and bade him to build a seaworthy ark. When the flood came, Matsya (fish), the first avatar of Lord Vishnu, towed Vaivasvata and the Seven Sages to safety. As the waters subsided, the seventh Manu's ark came to rest on a hillside and the place was named Manali after him.

Accessibility

Air: Bhuntar, which is 52 km away from Manali, is the nearest airport. Taxi services are available from Bhuntar to Manali, which costs about Rs 1000. Bhuntar is connected to Delhi by air. Delhi is the major nearest airport, which is about 565 km away from Manali. Delhi airport is well connected with all major cities in India and many cities abroad.

Rail: Joginder Nagar is the nearest railway station to Manali, which is nearly 50 km away. Joginder Nagar is well connected to all other Indian cities via Chandigarh. Taxi fare from Joginder Nagar to Manali is about Rs 1000.

Road: Manali is well connected to other tourist destinations near by in Himachal by private deluxe bus services. State owned services are also available connecting Manali to other cities.

Getaways
Shopping

The Mall is the main shopping area, selling local Kullu and Kinnauri shawls, rugs, caps and footwear, imported goods, besides a range of Tibetan handicraft items. It is more of a busy commercial street with modern concrete blocks of hotels that spill over with tourists in the peak season. Other shopping zones in the Mall include- Hong Kong Market, Thai Market, Tibetan Market, Dragon Shopping Complex, Lama Underground, Shangri La Shopping Complex, New NAC Market and Snow Lion Underground Market. The Himachal Handicrafts Emporium and Bhuttico weavers’ co-operative (+91 1902 260 079) in the main Manali Mall are good for local handicrafts. Handcrafted shawls and rugs are the major and the most popular buys here. The Tibetan Bazaar and Tibetan Carpet centre run by the refugee community sells thangkas, rugs, local tweeds, Buddhist paintings, bamboo souvenirs, Chinese goods (electronics, shoes, clothes etc), silver and turquoise jewellery and prayers wheels amongst other things. The place is overcrowded with tpurists in the summers. If you are interested in buying more hippie and junky stuff, then
the Old Manali market is a must visit. You could even pick up fresh fruit jams, jellies and pickles from the market and take them back as souvenirs. All the shops are open from 10 am to 7 pm. Bargaining is a must here as most shops tend to quote a higher price.

Apart from a popular hill resort, Manali is also a paradise for shoppers. Manali is the perfect destination for those who love handicrafts and traditional items. Of the variety of items available in Manali markets, the locally made woollen products are a must buy for you. Check out the famous Kullu cap and Kullu Shawals with delicate, bright borders.

After buying the woollen items, head towards the local Manali market to shop for some exotic handicrafts and hand-woven goods. Local specialties are Himalayan handicrafts, which extensively assort Tibetan curios such as prayer wheels, amulets, dorjes, masks, musical instruments and thangkas. You can definitely opt a few items from the Manali markets to keep as souvenir of the visit to this charming destination.

For a discerning shopper, it is impossible to return from a tour without shopping in Manali.
The region has a rich tradition of handicrafts and handlooms, which make for pleasant shopping in Manali.

Like all hill regions in India, Manali too has a vast forestland, which produces huge timber. Wood has traditionally remained a favorite item for handicrafts. A variety of utilities and objets d'art would catch your eyes while shopping in Manali.

Another popular item for shopping in Manali is heavily embroidered woolen shawls. Woolen garments are widely available in Manali. You may choose to pick up pullovers, local tweeds and rugs while shopping in Manali.

Tibetan handicrafts find their way in the markets in Manali. Check out curios, antiques and knickknacks for your home interior, gifts or souvenirs. Some firans and inlaid silver jewellery in turquoise and coral may also feature in your shopping cart in Manali.

The mall Road is the best place for shopping joints in Manali. There are numerous private outlets alongside the government run emporia. Hang out here to engage in a pleasant shopping spree in Manali.

Accommodation

Plenty of accommodation options are available in Manali that range from five-star luxury hotels to cheap hotels. Hotels are located within the walking distance from the Manali bus terminal.

5 Star Hotels : Span Resorts.

4 Star Hotels : Timber Trail, Vacred Manali Resorts, Hotel Manali Ashok, Piccadily Hotel, Ambassador Resort, Sagar Resort, Snowcreast Manor and Holiday Inn Manali.

3 Star Hotels : Shingar Regency, The Manali Inn, Banon Resorts, Kanishka Hotel, Hotel Chandramukhi, Ram Regency Honeymoon Inn, The Confier Hotel, Glacier Resorts, Manali Resorts, Out Town Hotel, Hotel Regent Centre Point, Deluxe Luxury Cottages, D’Chalet, Manali Heights and Hotel Snow Princess.

Attractions

Hadimba Devi Festival
The Hadimba Devi Festival is also a big colourful affair in Manali and people come in from the neighbouring places to be a part of the fair which is organised by the temple complex. This fair is held every year in the month of May.

Things to do

River Rafting: Snow-fed riverbed of the enchanting River Bias put forward incredible chances for the demanding activity of rafting. The thrilling sport of River Rafting in the untamed Bias River offers a magical feeling of intense and unbounded pleasure. Bias River proffers one among the best rafting fields in the entire Himalayan brooks and with its much staircase rapids it dares the mind and carcass of the rafter.

This river cuts against the wobbly caches, collide into rocks, fissures and flouting into white water rapids, fluffing, swirling, and declining in a deafening ruckus presents a delightful rafting bed to the water enthusiasts. The vast expansion of 20 km stretch of the river has exhilarating and great whitewater rapids. Besides a perfect rafting bed, Bias River is ideal for kayaking and canoeing too. The rafting from the Jhiri to Manaki in Bias river is the most popular rafting area wherein so many sporting events are conducted.

Jeep Safari in Manali : If you want to enjoy and experience the ‘wonders’ of Manali and the areas around, Jeep Safari is one of the finest ways for you. Of the various jeep safari routes in Himachal Pradesh, Jeep Safari from Manali to Leh is one of the most popular route with both the Indians as well as foreign tourists.

The 475 kms route will take you via Rohtang Pass (3,980 m) - Lahaul valley - Keylong - Darcha - Baralacha la (4,890 m) - Sarchu - Lachalang la (5,065 m) - Tangalng la (5,360 m) to Leh (3,505 m). Jeep Safari route from Manali to Leh remains open only for three months, from June to September every year.

You can also extend you trip to Nubra Valley across Khardungla pass, the highest motorable road in the world or to Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) after passing Zojila pass. Another option is also available, you can drive to Leh via Tsokar and Tsomoriri Lake. You can complete the Manali to Leh drive in two days with a overnight stay at Sarchu or Darcha.

During your Manali - Leh Jeep Safari trip you will cross the varied terrains. The terrains will surprisingly change their colour and nature, from lush green and foggy to the rugged brown, naked desert to the sprawling plain. In addition to these, you also get a good chance to observe the charming landscape, splendid valleys dotted with villages and beautiful monasteries from your jeep. Moreover, a lifetime's experience, Jeep Safari across Manali - Leh provides you a wonderful opportunity to meet and interact with the loving people of this beautiful land.

Mountaineering in Manali : Being the biggest range of mountains on earth, the Great Indian Himalayas has always lured the mountaineers across the world. Himachal’s charming town, Manali makes an ideal base to undertake the adventure sport of mountaineering. The Himalayas in and around Manali offer a range of mountaineering options, from a short and easy climb to long challenges of the snowy peaks.

While mountaineering in Manali, you get to experience the magnificent views of the snow-clad lofty peaks, the lush meadows, green woodland and also exhilarating fragrance of orchards. In fact, Manali Himalayas’ pristine beauty, vastness and a number of hidden jewells have an everlasting appeal for mountaineers, who explore the region by mountaineering.

Snow Skiing in Manali : The beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh lies amidst the Himalayan ranges of Shivalik, Pirpanjal and Dhauladhar. Most of its higher reaches remain snow-covered for a lrge part of the year. The Manali region in Himachal Pradesh is bestowed with some very fine slopes. From professionals to novices, Manali offers excellent opportunities for everyone to enjoy the winter sport of snow skiing. Thus, you can undertake the adventure sport of snow-skiing in Manali at any time to any altitude.
In Manali, training courses and facilities for snow skiing are offered by the Directorate of Mountaineering and Allied Sports. You can hire skiing equipments from HPTDC office at a very reasonable cost. You must be physically and mentally fit to take up skiing, trained guides are always there to help you out during any difficulty. You must remember that snow covered areas are very much accident prone, so you should make a complete enquiry before taking the sport. Close to Manali, Solang is one such place where skiing courses are conducted and it also organizes annual skiing competition.

District
Kullu District
STD Code
01902
Termperature
Summer 14 to 20°C, Winter -7 to 10°C
Best time to visit
May To October

Bangalore

State

Bangalore, the bustling capital city of Karnataka, has historically been known as the "Garden City" because of its pleasant climate and moderate temperature and a good number of gardens, parks and natural lakes. After the IT boom Bangalore came to be described as the "Silicon Valley" of Asia with a number of industries like aerospace, telecommunications, defence organistaions etc setting up their base here. Bangalore is the anglicised version of Kannada language and the official name of the city is Bengaluru.

History

The name Bengaluru derived from the Kannada word ‘bhenda kaale ooru’ meaning ‘town of baked beans’. Legend says that the name came into being because of a 10th century incident when a local king, Vira Ballala, turned up hungry at the doorstep of an old lady and she fed boiled beans. Out of gratitude to the old lady, the king named the place after food she generously fed him. Some historians however propose that the name simply originates from the word "Benga" or "Ven-kai" tree. The name Bengaluru is also found mentioned in a 9th century inscription regarding Ganga.
In the 16th century a local chieftain and the founder of modern day Bangalore, Kempe Gowda, constructed a mud wall around the city (in 1537). The town was then named " GalluBhoomi" meaning the "Land of Heroes". Later, under the rule of Hyder Ali and then his son, Tipu Sultan, it became an important fortified city with beautiful gardens. When the British took over Mysore State from Tipu Sultan, they shifted the capital to Bangalore from Mysore. Bangalore remains the capital of the state that is now known as Karnataka.
The city progressed rapidly under the British who established civic amenities, constructed grand buildings and parks. In 1881, the Wodeyars were given control of the city.

Accessibility

Air: Bangalore International Airport is 40 km away from the heart of the city, Majestic. It costs about Rs 300 by auto rickshaw and Rs 600 by taxi. Pre paid taxi facilities are available in Airport. Bangalore airport is well connected to almost all airports in India. International flights to major foreign cities are also operated from Bangalore.

Rail: Bangalore Majestic, Bangalore Cantonment (8 km to Majestic) and Yeshwanthpur (10 km away from Majestic) are the three main stations in Bangalore. Bangalore Majestic is connected to all major cities in India.

Road: KSRTC buses connect all cities in the state to Bangalore. Many super deluxe bus services are available from Bangalore to Hyderabad, Cochin, Trivandrum, Chennai, Mumbai, Goa and Mysore.

Shopping

For shopper's Bangalore is a paradise. Traditional buys of Bangalore include silks, jewellery, sandalwood, agarbatties, antiques etc. Bangalore has a number of new shopping malls and other old markets as well. You will find outlets of all the renowned brands in the shopping malls of Bangalore. For traditional handicrafts Bangalore has a Arts and Crafts Emporim too. Visit the Kaveri Arts and Crafts Emporium which stocks a huge range of superb handcrafted tables, carvings, ivory ware, jewellery, ceramics, carpets and agarbatties.

Shopping in Bangalore can be a fascinating experience because Bangalore has something to offer every kind of customer. Whether you are looking for Kancheepuram Silk or Swarovski crystal, chances are you will find it in Bangalore.
Bangalore is famous for the shopping malls, which have some of the finest and biggest showrooms in India.

Commercial Street is one of the busiest and crowded shopping areas in Bangalore. The shops are filled with shoes, jewelry, art decors, stationery, novelties, and travel kits and sports goods. The South Parade of the British Period, now known as the MG Road still retains the colonial charm even after lot of development and advancement has been made.

This is the place for shopping for electronic equipments, books and magazines, silk saris, textiles, antiques and photography equipments. Brigade Road, which is adjacent to MG Road is famous for electronic items such as televisions, refrigerators, music systems, computers, and washing machines and government emporiums where one can find brassware, wooden furniture, antique jewelry, ethnic printed fabrics, saris and decorative items. One should check out the Majestic area, where one can come away with really good buys and bargains. There are also a couple of markets called the Hong Kong Market, Burma Bazaar with small shops selling imported perfumes, accessories and electronic goods.

Apart form those shopping areas, Bangalore has lots of other commercial areas famous in their own way for the products they have on offer. Richard Square in Russell Market, for instance, is known for cutlery, crockery and household items. Chickpet is famous for its Silk Sarees, Silver and Gold jewelers and Textiles and Arcot Srinivaschari Street for metal items like brass, silver and copperware.

On B.V.K. Iyengar Road one can find wood products, plywood, paper and electrical goods. Avenue Road is known for its stationery, stainless steel ware and silver jewellery. For upmarket shops with an air-conditioned ambience one can go to KempFort, Shopper's Stop or some of the new shopping malls in the city like Forum and Bangalore Central.

Commercial Street: Commercial Street in Bangalore is one of the main shopping complexes in India. The whole of the street is lit by a covering of lights that are threaded from lamppost to lamppost. The energy of the people shopping here is high and one can get a good sense of the chaos that is prevalent there.

The Commercial Street is one of the busiest areas in Bangalore. It is placed between Shivaji Nagar and Kamaraj Road. Garments, hosiery and textile stores form the major part of the shops. In addition there are shops selling shoes, art materials, jewellery, sport goods and other general goods.

Accommodation

Bangalore, the IT Hub of India, also known as the Silicon Valley of India has hotels with international standards. Bangalore hotels range from five-star hotels and luxury resorts to budget hotels.

Bangalore hotels offer well-equipped business centers and meeting rooms for the business traveler. For the economy and leisure tourist, there are hotels near the main shopping area, MG Road which offer a comfortable stay as well as opportunities for shopping in Bangalore. There are also tourist attractions in Bangalore, which are accessible to the tourist.

One of the frequented destinations of India, Bangalore is dotted with large number of hotels. Ranging from five star to budget hotels, Bangalore hotels provide a comfortable stay to guests. All the deluxe and luxury hotels are well-equipped with contemporary facilities, while you stay in Bangalore hotels you feel yourself at home. Important hotels of Bangalore include Hotel Oberoi, Leela Palace Kempinski, ITC Hotel Windsor Sheraton & Towers, Taj West End, The Park, Taj Residency, Le Meridien, Gateway Hotel, The Central Park, The Richmond Hotel, The Chancery etc.

Among the prominent hotels in Bangalore are:

FIVE STAR DELUXE HOTELS

The Oberoi
The Taj West End Hotel

FIVE STAR HOTELS

The Leela Palace Kempinski
Le Meridien
Taj Residency

BUDGET HOTELS

Hotel Basant Residency
Hotel Ramanshree
Nilgiris Nest
Kamat Yatrinivas

FIRST CLASS HOTELS

Hotel Ashok
St. Mark's Hotel
Central Park

There are numerous accommodation options available for the tourists throughout the city. Some of them are Ista Hotel, Ballal Residency, Casa Piccola, Cottage, Melange, Jayamahal Palace.

STD Code
080
Termperature
Summer 23-33°C, Winter 12-23°C
Best time to visit
October to March

Panipat

State

Panipat, situated on the banks of the river Yamuna, is famous in Indian history as a place where the fate of great empires was decided more than once. It is the cradle of rich Indian cultural heritage, known for its handloom products. Today, Panipat has carved out its place among not only the first few fast developing cities, but also those having the highest per capita income in the country.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Tomb_of_Bu_Ali_Shah_Qalandar.jpg

District
Panipat District
STD Code
01742

Gurgaon

State

Gurgaon is the most rapidly developing colonnade of the state, located in the National Capital Region. It has become one of the most important corporate and industrial hubs of India. In Mahabharat times, Gurgaon was a thick forest where the ashram of Guru Dronacharya existed. It was here that Pandav and Kourav princes got their training in arms and warfare. Because of Guru Dronacharya's ashram, people started calling it the 'Gurugram' which later on changed into 'Gurgaon'. This place had been gifted by Yudhister to Guru Dronacharya, as 'guru-dakshina'.

Shillong

State

Shillong, often referred to as the "Scotland of the East" due to its striking similarity with the Scottish highlands, is one of the important tourist destinations in the northeast. The city derives its name from "Leishyllong"-the Superpower or God who is believed to reside on the Shillong peak, overlooking the city. It is lying in the cradle of the tall pine conifers and pineapple shrubs.

History

It was the capital of the erstwhile British provincial state of Assam, and remained so even after independence. When Meghalaya attained Statehood, Shillong remained the capital. Situated at an altitude of 1,496 meters above sea level, Shillong is perhaps the only hill station with motorable roads leading to every corner. Shillong derives its name from the peak of the same name and there are many legends surrounding this name. One says that it came from a handsome youth called ‘Shyllong’, who was born in mysterious circumstances to a virgin human mother in Bisi, a village near Shillong. It is believed that he was the Shillong deity and the phrase, “Kot Shillong”, which means “To bring peace in time of catastrophe, danger or personal misfortune” originated in the legend.

Shillong was a small village until 1864, when it became the new civil station of the Khasi and Jaintia hills. It remained the summer capital of Eastern Bengal and Assam for many years. In 1874, on the formation of Assam as a Chief Commissioner's Province, it was chosen as the capital of the new administration. An earthquake destroyed the city in 1897, necessitating its complete rebuilding. In January 1972, Shillong became the capital of the newly formed state of Meghalaya.

Accessibility

By Air: Shillong airport at Umroi connects to only Kolkata. Guwahati is the nearest major airport, which is nearly 100 km away from Shillong.

By Rail: Nearest railhead to Shillong is Guwahati which is well connected with all the major railheads of India.

By Road: The State Road Transport Public buses and the private tourist bus providers operate bus services from Shillong to the many cities in Meghalaya and the neighboring state. The bus stand is located in the heart of Shillong.

Shopping

Good buys in Shillong include mounted butterflies, hand-woven shawls, orange honey, black mushrooms, Khasi-style jewelry and handcrafted bamboo objects.

Bara Bazaar (Iewduh Market): The Iewduh market or the Bara Bazar, as many old timers still prefer to term it, is one huge colourful jamboree. Generally recommended to every newcomer as the first place to be visited upon arrival the Lewduh market sees an influx of peddlers across Meghalaya advertising and trading their wares. The market becomes the hub of a million activities on the Iewduh (the very first day of the Khasi week) when populace from the entire spectrum from Meghalaya arrives in vibrant bunches and enhances the festive atmosphere. The vendors offer some of the best Meghalay products for the most reasonable prices. A quick bargain purchase of some of the handwoven goods and natural resources can be one of the best clinched deals of your life.

Accommodation

Shillong being the capital city of Meghalaya has a good line of accommodation facility in and around itself. You may not too luxurious category of accommodation in Shillong. But, the accommodations available are good enough to provide you a perfect comfort.

Hotel Polo Towers , Royal Heritage Tripura Castle , Lake View Inn , Hotel Alpine Continental , Shillong Club , Orchid Hotel , Orchid Lake Resort , Pinewood Hotel , Hotel Centre Point , Rosaville Heritage, Bo-Ville Homestay.

Things to do

Water Sports
One the other hand, if one is into water sports, the Umiam Lake resort serves up motorboats, water scooters, skiing and sailing facilities backed by the comforts of the Orchid Lake resort. Angling is another activity that one can delve into here, but Ranikhor is truly the angler's dream come true! For the less adventurous, Ward's Lake right in the heart of Shillong, has row boats and paddle boats a-plenty.

A Golfer's Paradise
For those seeking to combine their holiday with a dash of sport, there is the golf club and the 18-hole golf course. It is the third oldest course in the country, termed "the Gleneagle of the East" by the United States Golf Association Library and Museum. The club is a throwback to the old world charms reminiscent of the British.

Teer - The Local Sport

If it is local sport, one is looking for, try "Teer". The ancient martial art of Archery has now been allowed to develop into the addictive Teer or legalized betting. Betters go on waging their money on how many arrows the archers will shoot at the end of the day. And those who hit the bulls-eye go home richer.

Trekking
Shillong has very recently joined the Adventure Tourism bandwagon. The Project Division of Meghalaya Tourism Development Corporation has identified two trekking Trails and backed them up with exclusive photographs, maps, trekking equipments and tents; all available at the MTDC Office at Polo Road.

The five-days part-trek and part-bus trip to Cherrapunjee and the seven days trek to Umlyng (extendable to ten days if one wants to press on upto Mawlyndep) exposes the trekker to dense pine and mixed forests, bamboo groves and interesting rock formations, exotic ferns and tree creepers, a pride of wild orchids and wild flowers.

District
East Khasi Hills district
STD Code
0364
Termperature
Summer 12°C - 20°C, Winter 3°C - 14°C
Best time to visit
Throughout the year
Famous For
Capital Of Meghalaya famous for its magnificent natural scenery

Rameswaram

State

It is located on an island separated from mainland India by the Pamban channel and is less than 40 kilometers from the Jaffna Peninsula, Sri Lanka. Together with Kashi, it is considered to be one of the holiest places in India to Hindus, and part of the Char Dham pilgrimages. Hence, it is a bustling pilgrim centre.

History

According to the Hindu mythology i.e. the story of Ramayana Lord Rama performed thanksgiving rituals to Lord Rama after the battle at Sri Lanka and his triumph over the demon king Ravana. Owing to this Rameshwaram attracts Vaishnavites (worshippers of Lord Vishnu) and Saivites (worshippers of Lord Shiva) alike. Sri Lanka is at a distance of 24 kilometers from Rameshwaram. In fact the entire area of Rameshwaram is associated with various incidents from the Ramayana. Rameshwaram happens to one of the most visited pilgrim sites in India.

Accessibility

By Air: Madurai is the nearest airport to Rameshwaram, which is located at a distance of 163 km away from Rameshwaram.

By Rail: Rameshwaram (Mandapan station just 2 km away) is well connected by rail with many south Indian cities including Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Thanjavur and Trichy.

By Road: Tamil Nadu Road Transport Corporation buses connect Rameshwaram with all cities in Tamil Nadu, including Kanyakumari, Madurai, Trichy and Thanajvur.

Accommodation

For the tourists accommodation is not an issue at Rameshwaram. There are several hotels, lodges, cottages and hostel that provide ample services and facilities for a comfortable stay. The pilgrims may opt for the dormitory service at the temple.

District
Ramanathapuram
STD Code
04573
Termperature
Summer 30-35°C, Winter 17-27°C
Best time to visit
October to March
Famous For
Seat of one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of India, where Lord Rama woshipped.