Where to Go on Holidays in India with Elderly Parents

It’s been less than a week since I went to Nainital and saw this really old couple, about 75 years of age, enjoying boating in the sparkling lake in monsoon… It was definitely a moment of a lifetime to capture! Sadly, the fact is that most of us do not include our elderly parents in family trips and everyone has their own reasons ranging from their old age, inability to travel to simply their lack of interest to explore something new. Well, honestly, your old parents need a vacation or two to escape their ill health and despondent state of mind; and since we live in a diverse country like India, you can never be out of choice for planning a trip with your aging parents. Here is a list to help you choose the destinations that you can go on a holiday with your elderly parents in India.

Shirdi:

Spirituality is something that always clicks with aging people. That is why there can be no better place for holidaying with your elderly parents than Shirdi. Located in the state of Maharashtra, Shirdi is one place that no elderly parents would say no. A quite little town with bustling pilgrims and spiritual ambiance, Shirdi is a perfect spiritual escape for you and your parents. Hotels in Shirdi are available in every budget, although you won’t find a 5 Star hotel here. One can settle for good 4 star accommodation options here and other than there are some comfy budget hotels here as well. If your parents are willing you can explore the surroundings of Shirdi as well, Alandi, Shegaon, Trimbakeshwar, Sakori, Shanisinghnapur, Nashik and Ajanta & Ellora Caves are the places of interest near Shirdi.

Madurai:

By the River Vaigai, Madurai stands humbly, offering indescribable peace and rejuvenation of the mind body and soul. Madurai in Tamil Nadu is yet another destination that is ideal for holiday with elderly parents. This temple town will definitely attract the attention of your parents and chances are that your parents may ask you to bring them back here someday. Known for the majestic Meenakshi Temple, impressive architecture and holy environment, it is indeed a perfect holiday getaway. Besides Meenakshi Temple, you can take you parents to Alagar Koil, Gandhi Museum, Koodal Azhagar Shrine, Thirupparankundram, Tirumalai Nayakar Mahal and Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam. There are fewer luxury hotels and more budget hotels here, so depending upon your budget and convenience you can pick your choice.

Thekkady:

Elderly people want to spend their time in peace; as a matter of fact, I guess most of us also require some lone time at some point or the other in life. Luckily, there are numerous destinations in India that cater to our need of spending some quiet and quality time AND Thekkady in Kerala is one such place. Proffering the opportunity to spend some magical moments amidst scenic nature, Thekkady is a perfect destination for those seeking some good time with their old parents or family members. Part of the Periyar National Park, Thekkady is bestowed with the beauty of lush green forests, unending chains of hills while the traces of diverse wildlife shall give those wrinkled eyes something to widen their size. It shall also add to countless beautiful memories they have treasured. There are a large number of hotels in Thekkady and they all range between luxury class and budget hotels; most of the hotels are within budget so you can expect a comfortable and leisurely stay here.

Munnar:

I believe you don’t need to convince anyone that Munnar is an ideal place for a holiday escape. The rhapsodic landscape and the pristine ambiance is more than enough to convince anyone to plan a holiday in Munnar in Kerala. A quite little hill station with undulated hills is what is going to pursue your aging parents to take up this holiday with you. The accommodation options are brilliant here and you shall be spoilt for choices. Whereas on one hand luxury hotels and resorts proffer an out and out memorable stay, the budget hotels on the other hand by no means compromise with the comfort of the guests. Scenic views from the window of each hotel can definitely be called a luxury.

Varanasi:

The name of Varanasi conjures up image of Ganga ghats that are often thronged by colourful Sadhus and other pilgrims, the slow paced water of Ganga that is regularly sailed by wooded boats, the evening Ganga Aarti and the enchantment of Mantras… Varanasi is a ‘SHOW’ in all senses. The divine air is what all the more makes it one of the best places to go on a holiday with elderly parents in India. For many devotees, Varanasi is nothing short of a dream destination AND you may not realize it but it could be the same for your aging parents also. Take them to temples like Durga temple, Vishwanath temple, Sankat Mochan temple, Tulsi Manas temple and the Bharat Mata temple and let them also attend the Ganga Aarti in the evening. I would also recommend an early morning boat ride from one ghat to another to keep things simple yet interesting for them. There are many hotels in Varanasi but the best hotel would be the one that offers a closer view of some or the other ghats and of course offers good services.

Haridwar:

Gift your parents a trip to the holy city of Haridwar. Haridwar is the best choice for a family getaway if you are in North India as it is easy to reach. Your parents will surely like the sacred vibe of the city, which is dotted with a number of temples and surrounded by a chain of hills. Moderate climate will also be an advantage here if you avoid the month of June. Take your parents for the evening Aarti at the ghat and to Har Ki Pauri for a superficial dip in the holy water of Ganges. At Haridwar accommodation is good and you can easily book in to a comfortable hotel without burning a hole in your pocket.

Manali:

Not sure, if your parents have made a trip to Manali while they were young, Manali can still be a great place to go with them at their greying age. Well, I agree upon the fact that weather and altitude can be a challenge, still Manali in Himachal Pradesh would be a great holiday option. The mysterious healing powers of the hills can be a boon for your parents; the fresh air and the unpolluted surrounding would lend them a couple of years  and put the string back in their steps. At Manali, nature walks are absolutely a must;you can take them to Mall road here and to the famous Hadimba Temple. Manali is replete with hotels, although accommodation is an expensive affair, you can still manage to get a decent comfortable hotel here. Avoid planning a trip during winters and monsoon; April to June is the best time to visit Manali.

 Darjeeling:

Whatever goes for Manali in terms of beauty and the power of nature applies to Darjeeling as well. This beautiful hill station of West Bengal is yet another ideal destination for a holiday with elderly parents. The jade green rolling hills and the view of the Mt. Kanchenjunga is what keeps Darjeeling alive in the memories of those who have visited here. Being a hill station, Darjeeling is a laidback destination with a slow pace of life that actually matches to our old parents’ lifestyle. Make sure you take them on a toy train ride to give them a pinch of thrilling experience. They also would like to walk around the city and visit places like Tiger Hill, Ghoom monastery, Batasia Loop and Senchal Lake. All these places can easily be reached by a vehicle. Darjeeling also has a large number of hotels that range from luxury to budget, so one can freely choose the type of hotel that suits one the best.

Agra:

I would love to take my parents to Agra and get a beautiful picture done in front of the impeccable Taj Mahal. I guess going to Agra on a holiday with elderly parents is a wonderful plan! Just about everyone in the world wants to see the Taj Mahal and what greater feeling it would be than to see it with people whom you love the most! Now only 2.5hrs to 3hrs away from Delhi, THANKS to Yamuna Expressway, Agra can be a great getaway with your parents. Other than the majestic Taj, you can visit Agra Fort, Sikandra and if your parents take interest then Fatehpur Sikri can also be included in the list. At Agra, accommodation is easy and most of the 3 stars can be booked at reasonable prices. There are a number of luxury hotels also to choose from if budget is not a concern.

Jaipur:

Yes it’s going to be a little difficult to take your parents to a city as bustling as Jaipur, but trust me it is worth the effort. The majestic structures, cultural extravaganza and delightful hospitality…You shall get it here in Jaipur, Rajasthan. For your aged parents, Jaipur would be a great place to witness the colourful culture. Besides visiting Amber Fort, City Palace, Nahargarh Fort and Hawa Mahal, take your parents to watch a folk dance and puppet show. I am sure this new experience shall be welcomed with a warm heart by them. In Jaipur, hotels are available in plenty, ranging from luxury to budget; you have the choice of booking at the one that best suits you. Avoid planning a trip in summer; the best time to visit Jaipur would be the months between November and February when the weather is cooler and more pleasant.

Hampi:

Some places are worth exploring, no matter what age you are! If you thought that the majestic structure, natural beauty and temples are the only things that can woo you and your greying parents, well you need to rethink! Hampi in Karnataka cuts you off from the mundane travel destinations and proffers an invigorating place to explore. Unlike many tourist destinations in India, Hampi offers the bewitching view of architectural ruins that lay well majestically till today. It is believed that one must in his lifetime visit an unusual place and Hampi can exactly be that place. It will be an equally thrilling experience for you and your old parents to have visited together. Hampi is just off the coastal strip and is far away from hustles and bustles and I believe that should be a factor that may make it a pleasant holiday destination for your family. There are many good hotels in Hampi, Bellary and Hospet that offer good services and a comfortable stay and you can choose from the ones that you think cater to your need the most.

Shimla:

Shimla is an unbeatable summer destination for people belonging to any age. Reasons can be many like good commutation service, good roads, scenic landscape and salubrious climate… Shimla offers total rejuvenation. The best thing about Shimla is that you will see less traffic; cars are restricted from entering the Mall Road and Ridge area, which keeps the area free from unwanted noise. You can spend hours sitting on the bench at the ridge opposite the St. John’s Church or wandering on the Mall road. You can also take your parents to Jakhoo Temple as vehicles are available till there. Enjoy a slow ride from Shimla to Kalka or vice versa on the Toy Train. There is a wide range of hotels in Shimla, most of which are situated on the Mall Road.

Pushkar:

A laidback destination, Pushkar adds new meaning to Indian tourism. In the name of tourist attractions Pushkar has a few temples and a lake. But more than that this place has something magical to boast about! You ask me why it is a perfect place to go on a vacation with your parents, that too aging parent. Well, I say, Pushkar has everything that is needed for your parents to change their state of mind… sitting by the lake will bring the sense of strange accomplishment; visiting the oldest Brahma Temple is also nothing less than an achievement for a lifetime. Pushkar sometimes makes you forget that you are in India as you encounter foreign tourist at each nook and corner here. Hotels in Pushkar are available at a very low price and if budget is not a concern for you then you can avail a pleasant staying place here.

The Ultimate Heritage Travel Guide to Delhi

How the capital city of India…I mean Delhi could be defined by anyone?? Is it called the 5000 year old capital city of the world’s biggest democracy or the city of extreme weathers??? No matter, what it is… Delhiites call it as ‘Dilli hai Dilwalo ki’… that means the city belongs to kind hearted people. It’s the largest metropolitan city in India that has rich and numerous tourist attractions. With lots of historical monuments, temples, and other places of interest, the city also houses other contemporary attractions.

Beating the alluring attractions on tourists, Delhi tourism includes a city with great history, empires, religion, priceless monuments and sacrifices. Formed by combining Old Delhi and New Delhi, this place reflects the past and contemporary style as well. The city is perfect retreat for people of all ages.

All what I feel is…Delhi is magnificent place and during my heritage tour to this city, I came across various historical places like Qutub Minar, Purana Qila, Lodhi Garden, Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya Dargah, Humayun’s Tomb, Safdarjung’s Tomb, Jama Masjid, Jantar Mantar, Red Fort, Rashtrapati Bhavan, India Gate, and many more, which have given me lot to learn about the history and literally enjoyed every bit of it.

Guys!!! If you haven’t enjoyed the heritage tourist attractions of Delhi, then I would suggest you to visit this city and enjoy your holidays. With large number of monuments and spots enlisted in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, India has made a stubborn mark in the history of world.
Going into more detail, I would like to share some exciting heritage spots in Delhi that will make your Delhi Heritage Tour, the most flourishing and memorable one.

Here it goes:

1. Qutab Minar-”The Tallest Minaret in India”

One of the most popular and famous masterpiece of Indo-Muslim art is ‘Qutab Minar’. Built nearly 1000 years ago, the astonishing 72.5 m minaret was made as per the instruction of Qutb-ud-din Aybak, using red sandstone. Beautifully carved, this edifice is preserved with utmost care and it’s overwhelmed by visitors today. This tallest minaret with its splendid past and facts, absorbs an important place in the list of Indian monuments and expresses about an exceptional dynasty that was laid down by a mere hard worker.

Among all the historical monuments, what I enjoyed during my tour was the Qutub Minar, which looks like the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The most important part is that it has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a gallant picture of Delhi too. So, visiting here and returning back without a single click will be your incomplete tour. Take some clicks with friends or family, standing beside this minaret.

2. Purana Qila-”Famous for Spectacular Sound and Light Show”

Recall the oldest fort in Delhi, the name what comes in mind is ‘Purana Qila’, which is linked with the legendary city of Indraprastha, developed by Pandavas of Mahabharata. The first view of the fort gives a glance of splendor. The fort is a good paradigm of Mughal military architecture that was renovated by Humayun later. Made up of red sandstone along with marbles on the walls, it gives a rise to a height of approx. 60 feet. There are three gates categorized as Bada Darwaza (Big Door), Talaqi Darwaza (Forbidden Door) and Humayun Darwaza (Humayun’s Door) that allows entry into the fort.

The most entertaining part is ‘The Sound and Light Show’ that shows the history of Delhi and will take you 5000 years back. Apart from this, lake is also available close to the fort, where people enjoy boating. The perfect time to visit here is early morning when photo ops are best and will let you explore the monuments in tranquillity and imbue in the surrounding of lush greenery. Among the seven cities of Delhi, Purana Qila happens to be the sixth one. It’s an attraction in Delhi known due to its rich history that always undulate the explorer in me.

3. Lodhi Garden-”Offers Serene Hideaway from City life”

Along with Qutub Minar and Purana Qila, Lodhi Garden is also my favourite spot as I extremely enjoyed being in the serene place with lush green lawns & park during my visit. It’s a public park, scattered with ancient Mughal tombs and structures. Located very close to Humayun’s Tomb in Lodi road, this garden is spread out with ancient Mughal tombs and structures. Exploring 500 year old tombs whilst take a heritage walk, offer a wonderful picturesque view.

Kids play & run all around, people enjoy picnics with friends & family, and artists become enlivened by sitting and wandering in the garden. You can relax at this place and get peace of mind as there is power of nature that expels your daily mental stress. The place is extremely admired by yoga practitioners, joggers and young couples. The park is also perfect for morning walk as you can wander around for a few hours and take the pleasure of fresh air.

4. Red Fort-”The Pride of India”

After viewing all the above heritage places, the most awaited attraction that every tourist looks for is ‘Red Fort’. The fort (Lal Qila) is the second most tremendous foundation of Shah Jahan after The Taj Mahal. Established in the 17th century, this fort of the Mughal kings speculates the pinnacle of creativity common in structural design during the Mughal Era. The Red Fort is a coalition of Persian, Indian and European art. Exploring the major attractions inside the fort like The Mumtaz Mahal, The Rang Mahal, The Khas Mahal, The Diwan-i-Am, The Diwan-i-Khas, The Hamam, and The Shah Burj, gives great experience and opportunity to capture those picturesque views.

People also know this place by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s freedom speech that he gave on Independence Day (15th August, 1947). That’s why huge crowd from all over the world throng this place on 15th of August (Independence Day) as the National Flag of India is hoisted by the Prime Minister of India. Large number of political leaders and great personalities are seen on this very day. The day is celebrated here by organizing various cultural programs and other activities. There are two gates in Red Fort, one is Delhi Gate and the other one is Lahore Gate, which is the excited and symbolic direction of the modern Indian nation and therefore draws large number of people on Independence Day.

The breathtaking experience is ‘the sound and light show’ of Red Fort, organized every evening. It adds more charm to trip and gives great way to experience the majesty and history of the place. Due to its incredibleness and uniqueness, the fort has become one among the famous tourist places to visit in Delhi.

5. Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya Dargah-”One of the most revered pilgrimages of the Muslims”

If you wanna take a break from Delhi’s groomed World Heritage sites, head to the Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, the mausoleum of the 14th-century Sufi saint and a popular place of pilgrimage for Muslims. Built up on the top of a tank, the holy place is bordered by a number of tombs. A huge crowd and winding bazaar road will take you to the temple entrance, where a marble pavilion of the 16^th century has the sculpture of Nizamuddin. Visit on Thursday and listen to the popular ‘gawwalis’ chanted by musicians sitting in the courtyard.

6. Humayun’s Tomb-”A perfect example of Persian Architecture”

Have you ever imagined that Humayun’s Tomb looks like Taj Mahal in Agra? Yes, it’s true as it was the inspiration for the formation of Taj Mahal. In fact, it was the first ever Mughal architecture to be built in India that was followed by Mughal rulers. The tomb is part of a greater complex that’s set amongst beautiful gardens. Being an excellent example of Persian architecture, the tomb was accredited in the year 1526 by his widow Hamida Banu Begum, after the death of Humayun.

Walking around the surrounding gardens and viewing several marble tombstones give immense pleasure to heart. At the entrance, there is a small museum that showcases old clicks with the history of tombs.

Taking a short trip to this place and learning about the hidden history behind this tomb is a wonderful experience for visitors.

7. Safdarjung’s Tomb-”The Last Quiver in the Lamp of Mughal Architecture”

Developed in the style of Mughal Empire for the statesman Safdarjung, this tomb is known as a marble and sandstone mausoleum in New Delhi, India. The main entrance is close to a buzzing red light stop, which presents some of the fine ornamental paintings. The Mosque is attached to the gate and you’ll also find several pavilions with redolent names such as Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), Badshah Pasand (King’s favourite), and Jangli Mahal, (Forest Palace).

During my visit to this place, I was the only person and so it was completely silent over there and I couldn’t hear the squawking of crows and it was simply a wonderful break to keep myself away from the Delhi crowds. Well, my experience to this heritage place was too good and wishes the same for tourists too.

8. Jama Masjid-”The Biggest Mosque in India”

One of the largest mosques of Old Delhi is ‘Jama Masjid’, which is also popular as “Masjid-i-Jahan Numa”. The place offers an amazing view of the old city and walking through this heritage spot will take you through the narrow ways of Old Delhi along with colorful bazaars, mansions, Jain temples & food stalls. Designed as a primary mosque of Shah Jahan, Jamma Masjid of Delhi is developed in red sandstone and white marble.

Coming to its interiors…they are decorated with black stripes. It was developed on a high platform, in order to make it visible from all the neighbouring regions. Before entry, it’s necessary to put on robes and if it is not with you, you can hire while entering from the northern gate and don’t forget…this would be the time to dress up and look like a local…so make the most of it.

9-Jantar Mantar-”The Creation of Jaipur King ‘Maharaja Jai Singh’”

What emerges to be an unexpected sculpture garden in the central Delhi is none other than ‘Jantar Mantar’, the modern yet popular name of ‘Yantra Mantra’. It’s located in the heart of New Delhi and easily approachable from any corner of the city by bus, car or other local transport. It’s a magnificent structure that has amazed large number of visitors from all across the world due to its capacity to make accurate calculations of several astronomical movements. The observatory gives perfect insight of technological innovations of time and so it’s considered as an inherent part of scientific heritage in India. It’s a very good place for sightseeing without much hassle and noise, reflecting the observatory of 18th century.
Well, for me…it was a lovely atmospheric place with picturesque view. Also, it was a pleasant break from the religious sites during my holidays in Delhi. My day ended with lots of photography with friends as the place is best for photo shoots.

10. Tughlaqabad Fort-”An architectural marvel built by Ghiyathu’d-Din Tughluq”

Alighted on a rocky hill, Tughlaqabad Fort is very huge and wonderful fort that endures more as a monopoly than an architectural enterprise. Beautifully made of rough stones set in mortar with sloping walls, it is quite large than other forts. Viewing and exploring it in true pleasure requires lots of time. The decoration, walls, pathways, pillars and the structures, all of them will take you back to the ancient Tughlaq days. On the top of everything, the “Tartar” dome and “Tudor” arch with various beams and arch hatches all over the interiors of the structure are kinda noticeable features of the fort. Wandering on the lush foliage… itself gives a great delight. Undoubtedly, it’s a wonderful escape for tourists especially during the weekends.

Be aware!!! As you may meet with lots of monkies in its outer boundary side…but in spite of all these… it’s a perfect place for photography…nice backgrounds can be captured over here.

Udaipur The Venice of the East

Udaipur, acclaimed as the most romantic & heritage city in the world, is settled in the state of Rajasthan in India. It is built around and on the Aravalli hills. Many lakes of the city add to the beauty of the historical city. These lakes were mainly created, to meet the needs of drinking water and irrigation, by building dams.

Historically, Udaipur was the capital of the former kingdom of Mewar. It was founded in 1559 by Maharaja Udai Singh II. The land of Udaipur is drenched in history, and its culture floats in the air.
Festivals . Udaipur hosts fairs and festivals which are celebrated with great enthusiasm. The most important of them are Ganguar festival, Mewar festival and Shilpgram fair.



Gangaur is another important festival which is celebrated by women with great zeal and devotion. Goddess Parvati is worshipped by unmarried women to find good husbands, on the other hand, married women worship her for total well-being and long life of their husbands, and a joyous married life. Mewar Festival is held during spring (March – April) to welcome the season of spring. It is marked by Rajasthani songs, dances, processions, fireworks. Its celebration coincides with the festival of Gangaur.

Shilpgram fair is held annually during the month of November/December as winter is considered as the most appropriate time to visit Udaipur. This fair is organized to promote the art and craft of Rajasthan and goes for 10 days. It gives a platform to the local arts to get recognition and the local artisans have a market where they can show off their works. There are also various musicians and dancers who entertain you while you go through various rustic artifacts, thereby making the atmosphere colorful and lively.

Other fascinating festivals which form an integral part of the vibrant culture of Udaipur are Shriji’s Birthday, Ashwa Poojan, Holi, Kartik Poornima, and Hariyali Amavasya.

People - The traditional attires and accessories of the people are bright and colorful, and are usually worn by them during festivals and at certain ceremonies. The people of rural areas still wear the traditional colorful folk dresses and jewelry.

The music and dance of Rajasthan are so popular that they are one of the symbols of Rajasthan and its rich culture. The dance forms like Ghoomar, Gait Ghoomar and Chari in which the dancer places a pot on his/her head, and then a lamp is placed above it; can be recognized as typical of Rajasthan.

Most Popular places to visit in Udaipur :

Lake Pichola is one of the most beautiful and scenic lakes of Rajasthan. It is located at the heart of the city and holds the distinction of being the oldest and largest lakes of Udaipur. Lake Pichola is an artificial fresh water Lake which was created in the year 1362 AD, and was named after the Picholi village, which is nearby it.

In Lake Pichola there are four islands, all consists of palaces (ranging from small to big). Lake Palace is the most beautiful and famous palace built on the Lake. It has now been converted into a luxury hotel. One of the islands on the lake, called Arsi Vilas, has been turned into a bird sanctuary.

City Palace is a large palace which is situated on the east bank of Lake Pichola. It encompasses many palaces within itself. It’s a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal styles of architecture. Being built on the top of a hill, it gives a bird’s-eye view of the incredible city.

The Tropical Rain Forest Sub-Region

This sub-region comprises Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura, Western ghats, West Bengal and Andaman and Nicobar Islands which receive heavy rainfall. These areas are covered with evergreen forests. These forests have  three storeyed vegetation. The upper storey consisting of tall and magnetic trees forms the top canopy receiving most of the sunlight. Trees of lesser height form the middle storey.

They prefer shade and require less height.  The thick, dense and rich environment is capable of providing food and shelter to a host of animals of all kinds-the ground dwellers as well as tree dwellers. In the south Nilgiris, Annamalai, Palani hills and other south Indian ranges have extensive grass land dotted with patches of dense evergreen forests. These grasslands are known as sholas. They provides shelter to elephants, gaur and other large animals. Himalayan animals such as tahr, pine marten and European Otter, live here. The Vegetation and animals of the region show affinity height with high altitude forests of Assam.

The other species found in this region are Nilgiri langur, Nilgiri brown mongoose, stripe-necked mongoose, lion-tailed macaque, slender toris, malabar civet and spring mouse. In north eastern part, hoolock gibbon and golden langur are found. Binturong, red-pandas, slow lories are the characteristics of this part. Giant squirrel, civets and bats also dwell in these tropical rain forests.

The forests of Andaman and Nicobar islands come under the equatorial belt of tropical rain forests. Due to their separation from the main land, most of the islands are free from human settlement. They carry one of the most beautiful forest in the world. There are about 200 species of trees of which Padauk, Gurjain, silver-gray etc are prominent. Some of the endemic species of the islands are wild pig, norcondum, hornbill, Nicobar-megapode, Andaman teal, Nicobar pigeon, white bellied sea eagle, Andaman Cat snake, Nicobar legless snake etc. There are 16 species of bats and 13 species of rats. 

Constituting nearly ^3/₄^th of the total numbers of mammals. The representative of ungulates, squirrels, carnivaora and larger mammals are absent. Deer species were introduced in the Island during 1920s. All of them except Sambar have survived civet was also introduced which has multiplied to dangerous proportion. The fauna now found are macaque, palm civet, spotted deer, barking deer, hog deer, dugong etc. The marine life consist of crocodile, turtle, coconut-crabs, water monitor, green lizard and 40 species of snakes including cobra, viper, coral and sea snakes and pythons. 

The highest number of tigers are found in mangrove forest which are found in Sunderbans delta formed by the estuaries of Ganga and the Brahmaputra. The animal besides tiger are spotted deer, pigs, rhesus, monkey, lizard, water monitor, crocodile, crabs and fish . The fish-the mud skipper-can climbs trees. Weaver ants found here make their nest in the trees. The tiger here is the most interesting animal which swims in the creeks, preys on fish and crabs besides spotted deer and wild boar. The tigers here have the propensity of killing human beings. 

The National parks in this region are Balphakram and Norkok in Meghalaya, Guindy and Marine National park in Tamil Nadu, Sunderbans in West Bengal, Nandhapha and Mauling in Arunachal Pradesh, Saddle, North Button, Middle Button, South Button, Marine and Mount Harriet in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Bhagvan Mahabir in Goa, Eravikulam, Periyar and Silent Valley National Parks in Kerala.

10 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Bangalore

Bangalore, now known as Bengaluru, is the capital city of Karnataka in south India. Bangalore is a city of salubrious climate, and always bubbling with life and energy, representing a potpourri of people and culture. One of India's largest cities, it's earned several names such as Silicon Valley of India, Pub Capital of India, Air Conditioned City, and City of Gardens. Bangalore was known as Pensioners' Paradise, prior to the IT revolution. Now, the city is a wonderful blend of past and present.

Here are the top tourist places to visit in Bangalore. Consider seeing many of them on these Bangalore Walking Tours.

Alternatively, Viator offers a comprehensive Private Full Day Bangalore City Tour that's easily bookable online.

1. Vidana Soudha

Built in 1954, Vidana Soudha is a landmark of Bangalore. This enormous building is a massive example of neo-Dravidian architecture, with four domes on its four corners. It houses the Legislative Chamber of Karnataka Government, as well as accommodates many government departments. It's stunningly illuminated at night.

2. Attara Kacheri (High Court) and Surroundings

This two-storied building, built in 1867 under the reign of Tipu Sultan, is painted in red with Corinthian columns in Gothic style architecture. It's located at the entrance to Cubbon Park, and houses the High Court and many lower courts.
Close to the Court is the State Central Library building, which has the "Pompeian red" color and architectural style of stone and fluted pillars, with walls finished in lime plaster. Nearby, the Government Museum houses many exotic collection of coins, sculptures, inscriptions, and old paintings. Adjacent to the Museum is Venkatappa Art Gallery, displaying famous paintings, plaster of Paris works and wooden sculptures of the well known artist Venkatappa, and of other contemporary artists.

3. Lalbagh Botanical Garden

This enchanting garden is set on 240 acres with a rare collection of tropical and sub-tropical trees and plants, and a majestic glasshouse built on the lines of London's Crystal Palace. The garden was made in the 17th century -- started by Hyder Ali, and later completed by his son Tipu Sultan. It derives its name "Lal Bagh" from a collection of red roses that bloom throughout the year there. The glasshouse, which was constructed in the year 1889 to commemorate the visit of the Prince of Wales, is the jewel of this garden.
Lalbagh takes on a festive look during India's Independence Day and Republic Day, with a captivating show of over 200 varieties of flowers. The show also features an exhibition of hybrid vegetables.

4. Cubbon Park

Located in the heart of city, set on a 300 acre area, Cubbon Park is a great place to laze around in the lush green paradise. It has a treasure of different species of exotic plants. The park was named after the erstwhile Commissioner of Bangalore, Sir Mark Cubbon. Many ornamental and flowering trees, both exotic and indigenous, can be found in the park. It's a popular place for walkers, joggers, and nature lovers. Bal Bhavan in the park is a great place for the kids to enjoy. An aquarium is also located in Cubbon Park, with many varieties of exotic and ornamental fish.

5. Bangalore Palace

Built in 1887 by Chamaraja Wodeyar, Bangalore Palace is inspired by England's Windsor Castle. This beautiful palace has Tudor style architecture, with fortified towers, arches, green lawns, and elegant woodcarvings in its interiors.

6. Tipu Sultan's Palace and Fort

Tipu Sultan's Palace and Fort was originally built by Chikkadeva Raya in mud. Later, Hyder Ali started reconstruction in Indo-Islamic architecture. This was completed by his son, Tipu Sultan, in 1791. The Hindu temple seen in the courtyard of the fort is the proof of Tipu Sultan's religious tolerance.

7. Ulsoor Lake

The beautiful Ulsoor Lake is spread over an area of 125 acres. It was constructed by Kempegowda II. Boating and swimming pool are the great attractions of the lake.

8. Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium

Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium was founded in 1989, with an aim of spreading awareness among students and the public about astronomy. Two shows are held here daily except on Mondays.

9. Crazy Waters Amusement Park

This amusement park is located amidst a rocky landscape in Bannerghatta Main Road, and provides thrill, splash and excitement.

10. Other Bangalore Attractions

Apart from the above, Gandhi Bhavan exhibiting photos of Mahatma Gandhi’s life, several religious places, as well as great shopping malls, world class hospital facilities, and educational institutions attract people to this beautiful city. There are also many attractions around the city.

Gokarna Beach Travel Guide

Gokarna is a small and remote holy town, with four of India's most secluded and pristine beaches nestled nearby. It draws both pious pilgrims and hedonistic holiday makers with equal enthusiasm. Travel to Gokarna to get a feel for what Goa was like in its heyday, although time is limited as developers are already seeing the potential of this area.

Location :

Gokarna is located in the state of Karnataka, an hour south of the Goa border. It's around 450 kilometers (280 miles) from Bangalore, the state capital.

Getting There :

The nearest airport is Dabolim, in Goa. From there it's a four hour drive south to Gorkana. Alternatively, trains on the Konkan railway stop at Gokarna Road station, 15 minutes from town, as well as Kumta and Ankola stations, both around 25 kilometers (16 miles) from Gokarna. Gokarna is also well connected by bus from major cities such as Madgaon in Goa, and Mangalore and Bangalore in Karnataka.

Climate and Weather :

Gokarna experiences the southwest monsoon from June to August, following which the weather becomes dry and sunny. The best time to visit Gokarna is from October until March, when the weather is warm and pleasant with temperatures averaging 32 degrees Celsius (90 degrees Fahrenheit). April and May are hot summer months, and the temperature easily reaches 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit) then.

What to Do :

Gokarna's main attraction is its beaches, where people come to chill and soak up the sun for months at a time. As Gokarna is one of the most sacred holy towns for Hindus in south India, there are also some important temples to see. Unfortunately, they're off limits to non-Hindus but you can grab a glimpse inside. The Mahabaleshwar Temple houses a huge lingam (symbol) of Lord Shiva. Make sure you check out the huge chariots near the Ganpati Temple, which carry a Shiva idol through the streets while people throw bananas at it for good luck during the Shivaratri Festival in February/March.

Beaches :

Gokarna town has it's own beach that's popular with pilgrims. However, the beaches that are of most interest to tourists are located one after another a short distance away. There are four of them called Kudle Beach, Om Beach, Halfmoon Beach, and Paradise Beach. Each has its own appeal. Om Beach is the most happening beach, and is the only one that's reachable by car or rickshaw. The others are around a 20 minute hike away from each other through the hills and over rocks, or a short boat ride away. The last beach, Paradise Beach, is not much more than a tiny protected cove that's a patch of hippie paradise.

Where to Stay :

Gokarna town has plenty of hotels but they are characterless places. Instead, find yourself a basic hut right on the beach. Om and Kudle beaches both have shacks offering accommodations, while places also open on Paradise and Halfmoon beaches during the tourist season from November to March.  Try Paradise Holiday Cottages on Kudle Beach.
Nirvana guest house is the best place to stay on Om Beach. Namaste Cafe is also popular. Beach accommodation can be difficult to come by in the peak months of December and January though. Many people are just happy with a hammock!
There are also a few new luxury resorts in the area, such as the Om Beach Resort and SwaSwara to cater for those who prefer their comforts. The Om Beach Resort has a traditional Ayurvedic center, while Swaswara focuses on yoga and meditation.
For something different, check out Namaste Yoga Farm in the hills above Kudle Beach.

Parties and Nightlife :

Bonfires, singing, guitars, and drums are familiar parts of Gokarna's nightlife. The party scene in holy Gokarna is kept in check by strict policing, although some beach parties do happen during the peak season. Officially, alcohol is banned because of the town's religious significance but you won't have a problem getting a cold beer on the beach.

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Most Beautiful Honeymoon Destination Italy..

When you are looking for a honeymoon full of old world charm and romance, a trip to Italy guarantees you will get lost on cobblestone streets, in old classic churches and bistros out of paintings and fall in love all over again. No matter the part of Italy you chose to explore you will no doubt find yourself taking moonlight walks, enjoying scrumptious meals, experiencing wonderful museums & art, great wine, fabulous culture and feel as if you’re feeling as passionate about each other as you are about life.

Choosing a specific region of Italy is too hard for us, as we love it all, from the drama and character of Rome, the romance and one-of a kind atmosphere of Venice, the rolling hills of sunflowers in Tuscany, the endless Florentine culture & shopping in Florence, to the amazing and gorgeous views from the lake and mountains in Lake Como, there is something for everyone.

There is too much about Italy to be specific to one region, but a trip to any of them is sure to leave you wanting more. We urge honeymooners considering Italy to study the areas that fit their personality more, for some who find wine fun and important, a tour of the wine country is perfect, for some who love fashion and nightlife will Milan is the place to go, for those who love the water you will want to consider Capri, Lake Como or Venice.

There is also the numerous historic & religious parts of Italy that will strike our honeymooners as a “must see” from the Vatican, to the Coliseum, Pompeii and even the spiritual bliss of Assisi. However long your honeymoon will be or wherever in Italy you land, I am sure you will wonder why Columbus ever left and find this magical and historic place the trip of a lifetime.

What’s Hot :
Back roads bicycle tours. Wine tours. Segway tours of Rome.

Must See :
The Vatican. Sienna. The view from the Amalfi Coast. The beach at Ostia. The Porta Portese flea market on an early Sunday morning. Capri. The statue of David.

Must Do :
A wine tasting in Tuscany in the country. Shopping on the Ponte Vecchio. Dinner and a stroll through Rome’s Trastevere. A cappuccino in Venice’s Piazza San Marco.

Must Know :
Passports & personal belongings are sought after in Rome and often stolen. Be sure to have photocopies of all you passport and travel documents in two places.