Explore the Off-Beat Tracks of Delhi and Agra

Delhi popularly known as the city of the Djinns can be summed up in three words that are marvel, mayhem and mystery. This historical city that exhibits dusty bazaars and magnificent mausoleums is littered with relics of a lost empire. The mystery of Agra cannot be undermined as well. Many travel operators offer Short Tours of India in which they include the tour of the cities of Delhi and Agra.

Beyond the notable attractions of Delhi such as Qutub Minar, Red Fort, Humayuns Tomb, India gate, Parliament House of Delhi, Tughlaqabad and Taj Mahal in Agra there are certain off beat attractions that deserve special mention. The non touristy destinations can be a treat for the eyes.

Off-Beaten Destinations in Delhi and Agra:

Nizamuddin Village

This village situated in Delhi is site for burial of emperors, saints, poets, warriors, nobility etc. There are exquisitely carved monuments of the Chaunsath Khamba and the Tomb of the Ghalib in the Dargah complex. Along with the Humayuns Tomb, Rahim Khan-e-Khanan poets tomb is also present in this complex. The Sunder Nursery, Indias largest nursery, is also situated here. A medieval ambience is present here with narrow alleys and bazaars and the Dargah of Nizamuddin is present at the epicentre of this village.

Indomania Pottery Village:

This commendable tour includes a pottery village visit in Delhi and observation of the splendid works of pottery displayed by the deft artisans of the village. This is a tourist destination and houses many shops that sells souvenirs and eateries. Assuage your pangs of hunger in a restaurant here and try out the art of pottery.

Matia Mahal,

This is the Ideal destination situated near Jama Masjid Gate no: 1 in Old Delhi for the food connoisseurs. It offers luscious kebabs, habshi halwa, mouth-watering non-vegetarian dishes, Shalgam meat shop, Qureshi kabas at the Meena Bazar and the Al Jawahar restaurant.

Shilpgram:

This is basically a market, located in the Taiganj area near the Oberoi Amarvilas area in the district of Agra. This tourist place is designed as a bazaar and displays the commendable artistic work displayed by the craftsmen. This area houses bars, cafeterias, and souvenir shops. During the arts festival in February, food stalls, art and craft work and cultural performances take place here.

Agra Food

The non-touristy multi-cuisine restaurants, where the locals eat are the Pind Baluchi, Pinch of Spice and the Hotel Amar and are a must visit for the food gourmets. You should not miss the local breakfast of the bedai/jalebi and kachori and the Agra petha. For the food lovers, the alluring, gastronomic, culinary tours are a must, known as the Agra food walk and comprises of more than 25 Indian food items. These tours are customized according to the taste and the spice tolerance of the tourists. Some of the food items served in these tours are, samosa / kachori, papdi chaat, chole bhature, kathi rolls, chicken tikka, roomali roti , Agras famous petha, ladoo, paan etc.

Thus enjoy the lesser known quarters of the magnificent cities of Delhi and Agra through the travel operator Discover India Vacations Pvt. Ltd. that offer scores of packages of places such as Tours of Rajasthan, Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh and so on. 

Best Destinations for Safari in India

With many tiger reserves, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, India is rich in flora and fauna and is home to exotic species of birds and animals. This makes it an ideal destination to enjoy wildlife safari rides. Enumerated below are some of the best destinations in India for enjoying safari rides. Top Destinations in India for Safari Rides:

Ranthambore National Park: Tigers are the main attraction of this national park in Rajasthan. Visit this park to catch a glimpse and be mesmerized by these striped big cats. Cantars or jeeps are used for the wildlife safaris here. Apart from tigers a variety of endangered species can be seen in these parks such as sloth bears, nilgai, sambars, leopards, wild boar etc. Enjoy a tiger safari ride in the months between October to June in this park by opting for a Rajasthan Wildlife Tour Package offered by the popular travel operator Discover India Vacations Pvt. Ltd. that offers cost effective tour packages to visit the hills, pristine beaches, national parks etc.

Jim Corbett National Park: This Park, situated in Uttarakhand, is known to be one of the first national parks and tiger reserves in Asia. Fishing cats, goral, serow, Himalayan tahr and other rare wild species are seen here that entices and draws tourists from all around the world from the months of Mid November to June but March to May is the peak time for sighting tigers.

Sunderban National Park: The mangroves of the Sunderban National Park in West Bengal are the ideal place to look for the big cats. Tigers swimming in the waters are a popular sight in this region. The best time to visit this park in between October to April.

Gir National Park: It is the home to the Asiatic lions. The park even houses 26 species of reptiles, 32 species of mammals and 300 species of birds. October to May is the peak time for visiting it.

Pench National Park: This is the haven for the tigers along with the other species of animals such as wild boar, leopard, crimson barbet, nilgai, and so on. Tourists visit this park from the mid-October to June but March-May is the best time for sighting the tigers.

Bandhavgarh National Park: Located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, this amazing national park is home to the majestic striped cats. March to May is the ideal months to catch a glimpse of the royal cats. This place is known to offer one of the best hunting grounds and wildlife safari rides.

Kanha National Park: This national park boasts of inspiring one of the best childrens classic, the Jungle Book written by the eminent author Rudyard Kipling. The peak time to visit this park is in the months of March to May.

Kaziranga National Park: This Park in Assam is popular for watching the exotic species of the one horned rhinoceros. Apart from the rhinoceros, bears, elephants and panthers safari are the other species seen here.

Enjoy a thrilling safari ride in any of the above mentioned destinations in India by choosing the India Wildlife Tour Packages. 

Things to Do for a Truly off beat Golden Triangle Experience

The cities of Agra, Delhi, and Jaipur in North India form the internationally revered tourist circuit known as the Golden Triangle. The most basic India Golden Triangle Tour Packages offer tourists the chance to witness the highlights of all three major North Indian cities.

While many are content to see the famous monuments and religious destinations typically associated with the three cities, other treasure a more offbeat experience. Some even modify their itineraries to include the ancient city of Varanasi as a part of the tour. Here is what you need to do on a Golden triangle tour with Varanasi for the most offbeat experience of a tourist circuit that is famed all over the world!

DELHI

Experience Sufism: When it comes to a Sufi experience in Delhi, the Nizamuddin Aulia is the place that comes to everyones minds, but the dargahs of Ashiq Allah and Bakhtiyar Kaki, both located in Mehrauli, offer more intimate experiences. The lesser crowds mean more chances of interaction with Sufi saints, and Mehrauli, one of Delhis oldest areas, makes for an interesting experience too.

AGRA

Dinner at Hotel Amar Vilas: If you plan your Delhi, Agra, Jaipur with Varanasi Tour with your partner, you must dine at Agras Hotel Amar Vilas, the finest luxury hotel in the city. Bellevue and Esphahan, the hotels renowned restaurants, provide gorgeous views of the Taj Mahal, as you and your partner dig into some of the best food you would ever taste. Both restaurants serve a fine variety of Indian as well as international cuisines. Even though it might be an expensive affair, it would surely be one to remember and cherish!

JAIPUR

Book a Hot-air Balloon tour: The peak tourist season can be treacherous for tourists in Jaipur because of the abnormally high crowd levels. For a more scenic experience of Jaipur is famous landmarks, a hot-air balloon tour is recommended. Prominent landmarks covered as a part of these tours include the Amber Fort and Jal Mahal. Prices vary amongst various tour operators, but expect to shall out over Rs. 7000 per head.

VARANASI

Experience the Manikarnika Ghat: Off Varanasi is numerous Ghats, Manikarnika Ghat is one to invoke both dread and wonder. Every day, over two hundred bodies are burnt here, as the Ghat witnesses Hindu cremation rituals from dawn to dusk. Many believe that people who have their last rites performed here, head straight to heaven. The Ghat is also a hub for the infamous Aghori sadhus, who are known for their ascetic, and often controversial lifestyles.

When to Travel

While a tour of the Golden Triangle remains popular in the summer months, it sees maximum tourists during the winter months. The cities of Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and Varanasi often witness incredibly harsh weather conditions in the summer months, so a winter trip is recommended. Be sure to make all necessary reservations beforehand if you travel during the peak season.

However, if you are on a tight budget, a summer trip would be better thanks to cheaper hotel rates and less crowds at iconic landmarks! 

Golden Triangle Tour is India Perfect Tour in all Terms

What is India is Golden Triangle tourist circuit most famous for? The tourist circuit boasts of some of India is richest cultures, fabulous cuisines, and some of the most spectacular monuments this world has ever seen. However, it is not the typical crowd favourites that attract tourists to the India Golden Triangle Trip over and over again.

Delhi, Jaipur and Agra have some amazing places to shop too. From goods that can be bargained for to the best international brands that command steep prices, the Golden Triangle is the perfect place for you to find the shopaholic in you!

DELHI

Connaught Place: If you want stuff you can bargain for and the best brands in the world under one roof, Connaught Place is the best to be in Delhi. From accessories to books to clothes, this place has it all. Today, Connaught Place houses several shopping complexes, but the age-old Janpath Market and Palika Bazaar still command the biggest crowds.

Sarojini Nagar Market: Shopping on a tight budget can be quite fun in Delhi, especially if you do it at the Sarojini Nagar Market, which is famous for its affordable range of clothing. Brush up on your bargaining skills before you head to the market.

AGRA

Kinari Bazaar: For an eclectic variety of jewellery and ornaments, there is no other place than Kinari Bazaar on Golden Triangle tour packages. From small trinkets to elaborate, heavy jewellery, Kinari Bazaar provides glittering jewellery for every occasion. The bazaar is collection of bridal wear is also quite impressive.

Sadar Bazaar: Sadar Bazaar witnesses massive crowds throughout the year, particularly for its proximity to iconic landmarks in the area such as Agra Fort and Taj Mahal. Leather goods and handicrafts are the market is specialties. Due to the presence of a lot of foreigners, the prices may be a bit too inflated. Bargain, and bargain well in order to get a fair deal here!

JAIPUR

Bapu Bazaar: Rajasthan has its own unique culture and hence, its own unique clothing. If you want some of those authentic Rajasthani clothes and outfits for yourself or a loved one, consider a trip to the Bapu Bazaar. The market has a large variety of options when it comes to bags, cosmetics and clothes. Johari Bazaar: Known for its collection of gems, precious and semi-precious stones, Johari Bazaar is a prime destination in Jaipur for anyone who wants to shop for something unique. Precious stones such as blue sapphire, emerald, ruby and white sapphire are all available widely throughout the market.

VARANASI

If you book a Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi, you can shop for a wide range of products such as:

Hatua Market: For handicrafts, the Hatua Market is your best bet, with shops such as Arts & Curios, J. R. Ivory and Kashmir Crafts commanding great reputations amongst both locals and tourists. As with all other markets you would encounter on your Golden Triangle tour, remember to bargain!

Ganga Silks: Varanasi’s locally produced silk is world famous, but can command extremely steep prices in most places throughout the city. However, Ganga Silks is an exception. Not only would you be treated to some of the finest silk in the city, but it would not burn a hole in your pocket either. Go ahead, and try out the aforementioned markets and shops to treat your inner shopaholic!

www.discover-india.in makes all your travel plans come true. Come find the best deals and packages for travelling across the ancient and mystical land i.e. India! 

Kerala Best the Top Destinations in Gods Own Country

Kerala has always been blessed with abundant natural beauty, and over recent decades, the entire world has begun to take note of that. Kerala Tour Packages are in more demand than ever before, and it is not at all surprising, considering the vast wealth of scenic beauty that the state boasts of. Kerala tours take travellers through high-altitude hill stations, wildlife reserves, raging rivers, and magnificent beaches and backwaters. With so much to offer, it is quite difficult to compile a list of the best destinations in the South Indian state. However, if a Kerala tour is on your mind, the following places are must-visits!

Munnar

As far as hill-stations in Kerala go, Munnar is the most popular of the lot. Munnar is breath-taking rolling hills, waterfalls, tea plantations and pleasant climate throughout the year are perfect for tourists who want to relax and unwind to their hearts content. Situated at an altitude of 1,524 m., Munnar is a part of the Western Ghats mountain range and offers several activities for the adventure lover too. Paragliding, rock climbing, and trekking some popular activities here. Book a Munnar Alleppey Cochin Tour Package today to experience Munnar at its marvellous best!

Varkala Beach

Varkala and Kovalam are two of Kerala is most iconic beaches. But where Kovalam stays quite crowded, especially in the winter months, Varkala remains relatively less crowded. This makes the beach one of the cleanest in India, and allows you the breathing space of being yourself without worrying too much about what others think. The mountains provide a scenic backdrop to the place. Favourite tourist activities in Varkala include feasting on the local seafood and taking Ayurvedic massages, which are known to be extremely relaxing, for both mind and body.

Cochin

While places of natural beauty are not lacking in Kerala, there are some iconic cities too, and Cochin is one of them. The port city has been in existence since the mid-14th Century and boasts of diverse cultures, and has a certain old-world charm that makes it a favourite among tourists. The city has a fair number of architectural landmarks such as the Dutch Palace, Santacruz Basilica, and St. Francis Church. These landmarks are quite old, but their architecture still makes for amazing viewing.

Alleppey

Behold the much talked about Kerala backwaters at Alleppey, and let the beauty of Mother Nature captivate you. The backwaters, palm trees, countryside and paddy fields all combine to leave you with an experience unlike any other. The best way to experience the backwaters? Just hop on to a houseboat, and let it take you around on what would be one of your life’s most memorable boat rides. Alleppey is also home to a few beaches, churches and temples. During the peak season, it is recommended to book houseboats as early as possible.

Trivandrum

A trip to Kerala remains incomplete without paying a visit to state capital Trivandrum. Kerala is finest architectural marvels like Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Padmanabhapuram Palace and Napier Museum are housed in the city. It is also a great place to absorb Kerala’s culture, with classical dances and performances being great ways to get to know Kerala better.

With such an amazing diversity of tourist destinations, Kerala is truly Gods Own Country.

Visit Kerala today with www.discover-india.in. With www.discover-india.in, you are promised the best travel and tour packages, all at competitive rates too! Come, discover the best of India with us right away! 

Planning a Road Trip to Ladakh - Things to Know

A road trip in Leh Ladakh region of Kashmir is considered the best among top 5 road trips in the world. No wonder every year thousands of tourists and bikers from all around the globe flock to Leh to witness the euphoria of a high altitude ride. Most people who opt for a bike trip take a bike on hire from Leh Ladakh tour package providers. A high altitude road trip is not like any other normal road trip. Lack of proper precaution and safety measures can lead to acute mountain sickness and accidents.

Here are some important tips that you should know choose any of the adventure filled Leh with Kashmir Tour packages.

Routes: There are two routes to reach Leh from mainland, one is through Manali which follows NH# and as a total length of 475km and there is another route that goes from Srinagar to Leh and covers a total distance of 422 km following NH1D. If you are planning to take the Manali route then it is better to start early, so that you can avoid getting stuck in the traffic jam.

Best Season: Most of Leh Ladakh Tour Packages by road in the Manali route commences in the month of may, while in the Srinagar route vehicles began playing in the month of April.

ATMs: When you are planning such a high altitude journey, make sure you carry sufficient amount of cash. There are not many ATM stops on the way. Very few ATM’s are available only in Manali and Leh on the Manali Leh route.

Weather: Weather keeps changing drastically, so make sure you carry an umbrella, and light woollens even if you are travelling during the summer months. Drink at least 5 litres of water to remain hydrated, even if you are just roaming around in the city visiting some of Leh Ladakh best tourist places.

Driving/Riding Precautions to Take:

If you are driving all by yourself, make sure you do not use a heater. The warm air from the heater tends to lower the level of oxygen inside the car and makes breathing really difficult on the high altitude passes.

If you are riding a bike, wear full sleeve clothes and wear sun scream, as the UV rays can be very harmful for your skin. If you plan to drive in the hilly terrain of Leh, make sure you have a SUV car with sufficient ground clearance in a very good condition. Repair shops are not easily available and being strangled in the middle of a mountain desert is not a very pleasant experience. Alternatively, you can avail a Leh Ladakh tour package that takes tourists through the same route in a deluxe carrier.

The sheer beauty of the landscape can send you into a fairy land and you might feel like drinking during the long haul journey. Refrain from doing so irrespective of whether you are driving or just travelling with your fellow companions on a Leh with Kashmir Tour Packages. Alcohol decreases the level of oxygen in your body and can cause serious AMS symptoms.

Unless you are very confident about your travel plans, it is always good to travel with a travel agent who has a good idea of the place. Reputed agents offer all inclusive Leh Ladakh tour packages, which take away a considerable tension of looking around for cars and hotels and food joints. Besides, in case of any medical emergency, you would always have someone to help out, which is very crucial in such a high altitude region. 

Leh Ladakh Trip is Collection of Activities

Life in the city can often feel like a drag. Doing the same mundane tasks and living a super-fast life on a daily basis is tiring, and often results in people suffering from stress. There comes a time when you need to let that stress go, and what better way to re-ignite your senses than travel? The mountainous terrain of the Ladakh region in Jammu & Kashmir is frequently visited by tourists through Kashmir Tour Packages, and their sole purpose of the trip is to find new meaning in life, and immerse in the beauty of Kashmir. Heres why Kashmir holidays and a trip to Ladakh can put your mind at ease from all its worries.

Simple Living

If you live in a big city and are used to its hustle and bustle and the endless honking of cars, a trip to Ladakh can be just the remedy you need. The Ladakhi locals are very simple at heart, with a warm and friendly attitude towards both life and visitors to the region. Mostly Shia Muslims or Tibetan Buddhists, the locals shy away from the typical pressures of modern urban lifestyles, and have done their best so far to preserve their respective cultures.

Engage in Photography

The list of beautiful places in the Ladakh region is endless, and is ideal to unleash the hidden photographer inside you. Nestled in a picturesque setting between the Himalayan and Karakoram mountains, Ladakh is amazing for both newbies and experienced photographers. The Pangong, Tsokar, and Tsomoriri lakes, along with the Nubra Valley present photographers with beautiful photo opportunities throughout the year.

Adventure Opportunities

Adventure enthusiasts who come for Kashmir tours in India usually include Ladakh in their itineraries, and there are good reasons for doing so as well. Biking and trekking are two of the primary adventure activities in Ladakh, with high-altitude motor-able passes such as Chang La, Khardung La, Namshang La, and Wari La being favourites with bikers from India as well as many foreign countries. Trekking too, is a hot favourite tourist activity in Ladakh. Treks to Kang-Yatse, Nun-Kun, and StokKangri provide stern challenges to even the most experienced trekkers.

Enjoy Scenic Beauty of Leh

The town of Leh is most famous for the Leh Palace, which now lies in ruins. Home to Ladakhs royal family till the mid-19th century, the Leh Palace was modelled on Tibets Potala Palace, which is situated in the Tibetan capital of Lhasa. A visit to Kashmir with Leh Tour is a great way to immerse yourself in the historical town. Even though Leh has some things in common with urban cities, its rugged mountain desert backdrop, along with the culture of its locals make it a one-of-a-kind place in the world.

Let Ladakh leave you with nothing but the best of memories! Happy travelling!