India Trip Planning! A Guide on Popular Destinations

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India Trip Planning! A Guide on Popular Destinations

Last Updated on July 31, 2020

Not every travel becomes a story. Exploring India and its vast terrains is like visiting another universe. India is land with diverse culture which truly believes that “Guest is GOD”. The slogan “Atithi Devo Bhava” can be profoundly experienced in the land of India.  From the Royal Rajputana lands of Rajasthan to feeling the spiritualism of Haridwar and Varanasi; from the snow-clad Himalayas to the unbelievable ancient architectural wonders, India has always welcomed tourists to explore every corners of this magical country.

India is full of surprises. There are many destinations which are highly appreciated by the tourists and have a magnetic charm which attracts visitors again and again. Train is the best medium to explore the Indian lands as the journey via train is most comfortable with best food options to order online in train via e-catering service.  The statistics reveals that tourism is one of the rapid growing sectors in India and contributes 9.2% of India’s GDP.  Over 10 million tourists visit to unfurl the Indian lands and enjoy their vacation with extreme joy and happiness. However, if you’re planning to visit the country, here’re some of the theme locations you must visit atleast once in your lifetime.  It will create memorable stories forever.

Top 5 Seven Star Hotels: Redefining Luxury
Whether it’s the southern direction or the western wing of India, seven star hotels with utmost luxurious amenities and magnificent beauty will galvanize you. Your trip to India is incomplete without visiting these seven star hotels which are the aesthetic and commercial wealth of India.

  1. The Leela Palace, New Delhi:
    Located in the precinct of the Diplomatic Enclave, New Delhi, this seven star hotel “Leela Palace” has redefined the term “Luxury”. Over-sized rooms, suites, dining area, royal furnishings, bars, Indian and international buffet lunch/dinner with open kitchen, spa, and elegant decorations all around will mesmerise you. Booking a stay here will cost you around INR12,000 to 13,000. Book your room in advance via online mode or by a call.
  2. The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra:
    The historic city of Agra boasts its historical beauty through one of its marvellous Mughal structure called the Taj Mahal (Tejo Mahalaya). The city, within its vicinity, has one of the most opulent and affluent hotels of the world where guests experience a heavenly treatment. It’s “The Oberoi Amarvilas” hotel which has every minute amenities for the guests. It’s a 600 meters drive from the Taj Mahal. Stylish modern interiors, glass art, four dining options including international and Indian cuisines, bar, rooms facing the Taj Mahal from the window with wine glasses and soft music! That’s how Oberoi Amarvilas comfort you. Stay at this hotel costs INR 35,200 to INR 35,500 per day.
  3. The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai:
    Mumbai is the “Financial Capital of India”. The city has the most renowned hotel of the world known as “The Taj Mahal Palace”. It is itself a tourist spot where tourists throng for its overall view. The hotel hosts kings, dignitaries and eminent personalities from all over the globe. A blend of artistic elegance, history, heritage, delectable cuisines, poolside restaurant, and other world-class amenities makes it the most acclaimed seven star hotels in the country. Book a room in advance for your convenience. A day stay will cost you around INR 19,200 to INR 19,500.
  4. Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
    It’s a beauty and luxury beyond imagination! The Taj Lake palace at Udaipur is awarded with many prestigious awards in the field of hospitality and luxury. It’s the most expensive hotel of India embedded with utmost luxury a guest can imagine. It is also titled as the “Most romantic Hotel of India”. It costs INR 35, 000 to avail the basic facilities/luxury during the stay. The Grand Presidential suite costs INR 6, 00,000. The hotel is located in the middle of Lake Pichola which is its natural USP.
  5. Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad:
    The Palace has a magical blend of Italian and Tudor architecture which was once the residence of the Nizam of Hyderabad. It is one of the most luxurious hotels with 60 guest rooms and suites. Rare furniture, statues, royal Mughal architecture, marble embedded flooring and staircase with fountains are the finest décor elements and attraction of this hotel. A day stay will cost you around INR 24,300 to INR 24,500.

Top 5 Religious Travel Destinations: Feel the Spiritual Retreat
Spirituality in India is not only a philosophy to follow. It is religiously practised with tradition and rituals. Your trip to India must cover these five sacred destinations (Temples/Devasthana):

  1. Tirumala Venkateswara Temple: The temple is devoted to Lord Venkateshwara (Lord Vishnu). Around 70,000 to 1, 00,000 devotees visit the sanctum. The Dravidian architecture and inscriptions are the attraction. The temple is at its spiritual peak during the festival of Brahamotsava celebrated with zeal, dedication and enthusiasm.
  2. Vaishno Devi: Located in the bed of natural pulchritude, The Vaishno Devi Temple is at a height of 5200 ft. above in the peak of Trikuta hills of Jammu and Kashmir. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peeth with a religious belief that Maa Vaishno Devi decides and call the devotees to her doorstep. A must visit pilgrimage when you are on the spiritual land of India! Katra is the nearest station to deboard for this spiritual visit.
  3. Golden Temple: A pilgrimage tour to India is incomplete without visiting the Golden temple. The speciality of the temple lies in its pure golden architecture of Gurudwara and the four doors which are always open to welcome devotees from all the religions. The festivals like Guru Nanak Jayanti and Baisakhi are celebrated with great pomp and show.
  4. Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Kashi Vishwanath temple is located at Varanasi and devoted to Lord Shiva. Apart from visiting the sanctum, it is believed that a dip in the holy River Ganga will wash away all your sins. On the other end, you can also enjoy delicacies like kachori, lassi, and other street foods at Varanasi.
  5. Dargah Sharif: Ajmer, Rajasthan is a home to one of the most visited spiritual place called the “Dargah Sharif”. Visitors flock here to offer ‘Chadar’ (made of flowers) to ‘Moinuddin Chishti’s tomb. You can feel the intense peace by viewing the lavish Mughal architecture, and by the special evening qawwalis (devotional songs).  Devotees tie a thread at the Dargah and believe that their wishes will come true.

Top 5 Monuments from the Past:  Explore Indian History
Temples, buildings, forts and palaces are the architectural heritage of India.  They recite a rich cultural history of India.  These historical monuments are the real wealth for the Indian tourism. These top five monuments will give you an overview of the past and complete your tour to India.

  1. The Taj Mahal: With the historic name as “Tejo Mahalaya”, the Taj Mahal is one of the most adored and most-visited monuments from the past. It is a symbol of love. The attraction of the monument is the mixture of Mughal, Persian, Ottoman Turkish and Indian architectural styles. The history reveals that the Mughal emperor “Shah Jahan” built this gigantic structure in the memory of his wife “Mumtaz Begum”. It is also counted as one of the eight wonders of world.
  2. Qutub Minar: The capital state of India has highest number of historic monuments within its vicinity. Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the first ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. It’s a 73 meter tall tower with 379 spiral steps. It is also known as “Iron Pillar of Delhi”.
  3. India Gate: India Gate is a colossal structure built as a memorial for 70,000 British soldiers who died in the First World War.  It is counted among the largest war memorial of India.
  4. Mysore Palace: The southern part of India, specially the Mysore (Mysuru) has an artistic and the most beautiful monument of the south. It’s the “Mysore Palace”. The geographic location of the palace is such that it locates in the centre of the city facing the famous Chamundi hills. A blend of Mughal, Rajput, and Gothic styles of architecture is the major attraction of the palace. Mysore is also called the “City of Palaces” and Mysore Palace is the oldest.
  5. Victoria Memorial: Kolkata- The “Capital City of West Bengal” has a monument specially dedicated to Queen Victoria. The monument has a great collection of paintings, manuscripts, and sculptures of the British period. It’s the most visited and appreciated ancient structure of Kolkata.

Top 5 Haunted Places: The Mysterious History
If the word “supernatural” seems to be exciting and gives you an adrenaline rush in the body, then, India is the land to explore some of the most haunted places which will thrill you with unbelievable stories.

  1. Bhangarh Fort: It is one of the spookiest and scariest locations in India. There are many stories behind its abandonment. The Archaeological Survey of India has conspicuously stated that the location is severely haunted and entrance to it is strictly prohibited after the sunset. The fort can be explored in the daylight and you will be exposed to its drastic history.
  2. Ramoji Film City: It’s one of the biggest film cities of the country. There’re many controversies and incidents reported by the locals, as supernatural powers exist in the premises. Strange marks on the mirror, scattered food, and flickering lights create havoc. You can explore the entire Ramoji Film city during the day but it’s strictly advised not to visit during the night hours.
  3. Dumas Beach: Sun-kissed beaches in India are mostly preferred by the tourists to chill out on their vacation. Dumas beach in Gujarat is situated along the Arabian Sea and famous for the strange and unique black sand. There’re many puzzling incidents always heard around the beach.   It was said that the beach was once a burial ground for Hindu and their souls still venture in the dark. You’re not allowed to cross the beach after a certain point.
  4. National Library: Think of a haunted library which urges you to place the books in their respective shelves after you complete reading. The library has immense haunted stories like the death of a student while searching for books, labours who lost their life after the renovation of the building and much more. You can explore the library in the daytime but a visit in the night time is strictly prohibited.
  5. Feroz Shah Kotla: Feroz Shah Kotla in New Delhi is a ruined architecture which has many haunted tales behind. One can feel the supernatural powers like spirits (jinn) and can mark their presence. Locals are seen lighting candles and incense sticks to please the spirits.

Top 5 Romantic Destinations: Rejoice the Romance in the Air
Romantic destinations are known for its diverse beauty, geography and peacefulness.  These are the location which foments romanticism in the newlywed who wants to celebrate and rejoice their relationship in private. India is also a home to many romantic destinations, but these five selected destinations are mostly preferred and loved by the tourists.

  1. Goa-The Party House of India: Goa is destination where romanticism and party goes together. It’s the favourite honeymoon spot and guests from global boundaries visit this location. Beaches, unlimited parties, theme DJ parties, carnivals, food fiesta, drinks and lavish resorts are the major attraction which magnetically attracts couples and party freaks at Goa.
  2. Srinagar: If heaven exists on earth, it’s the Srinagar which has encompassed all the natural beauty in its ambit. The snow-clad hills, vast stretch of green land, rising mountains, valleys, tulip flower gardens, lakes, and Mughal gardens are the sites which are most visited and appreciated by the tourists.
  3. Darjeeling: Darjeeling is also known as the “Tea Capital of India”. Enticingly romantic fragrance in the air and the toy train ride by the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways will take you to the most scenic locations en route you will ever experience in life. Many movies are shot in the scenic location of Darjeeling. Such spots make Darjeeling one of the most romantic destinations of India. It’s a place which is famous among the couples as a honeymoon spot.
  4. Nainital: A place where God has bestowed all his beautiful thought! It’s an economic option for a holiday as it is not expensive enough. It’s Nainital which ranks second after Darjeeling as a romantic spot. It’s visually stunning and most appealing location to spend quality time. There’re many spots at Nainital where water streams generate only in the night with a gurgling sound. These streams disappear in the daylight.
  5. Shimla: Shimla was the former capital of Punjab and now the capital of Himachal Pradesh. Nestled in the Himalayan ranges with alpine trees and hot springs all around, makes it a tourist destination like no other. Vast apple orchards are also an attraction. The tourists visiting here are offered apples for free. Undoubtedly, it is best honeymoon paradise on earth.

It’s a well-known fact that traveling creates beautiful memories and capturing those moments’ makes a story to be remembered forever.  Your traveling diary will be stuffed with stories and remembrances. Along with these pristine locations, the Indian food is a representation of the vast culinary style and skill. Restaurants and food joints serve you tasty and quality delicacies showcasing the culinary richness of India. Train is the most preferable transport medium to cross through the terrains of India and ordering food online in train for journey is an added advantage. Enjoy your trip to these locations of India.