Agra, a city more than just Taj Mahal

Agra, like Delhi, has a reputation of being a city with rich historical value. The city has seen, for many years, power transferring from one ruler to another. Delhi to Agra distance by trains is just 235 kilometers and one can reach there in under 3 hours by using the modes of transportation. The Taj Mahal is no doubt one of the best pieces of architecture ever built, but there’s much more to Agra than just the Taj Mahal. 

 

Here are some of the best places to visit in and around Agra besides Taj Mahal:

1. Agra Fort: A UNESCO world heritage site, Agra Fort is located at just 2.5 kilometers from Taj Mahal. Site of the 1857 rebellion which caused the end of the British East India Company’s rule in India, the fort took 8 years to be built by over 4,000 builders. It is the same fort where Shah Jahan was kept as prisoner in his last days by his own son Aurangzeb. Visit it to witness the history from the close quarters.

2. Tomb of Itimad-ul-Daulah: Often described as the “Jewel Box”, the monument is also called “Baby Taj”, because of its resemblance to Taj Mahal. Located on the banks of Yamuna river, the tomb is primarily built of red sandstone with marble decorations. Just like Taj Mahal, Tomb of Itimad-ul-Daulah is also based on white marble and pietra dura. Visit it to witness the architectural beauty of the mughals.  

3. Fatehpur Sikri: The city acted as the capital of Mughal empire from 1571-1585. Taking inspiration from various states of India like Gujarat and Bengal, best of architectural practices were undertaken by the craftsmen for the construction of buildings. The palace city consists of various beautiful buildings like Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid and Tomb of Salim Chishti.

4. Sheesh Mahal: Also known as Glass Palace, it is situated near the Muthamman Burj just below the Diwan-i-Khas hall. Built by Shah Jahan around 1630s, the mahal was used for royal baths. The colorful mirrors give a beautiful effect when illuminated. The plaster work done on the panels of outer walls depict ‘bouquet of flowers’ in combination with glass mosaic work.

5. Mathura: The birth city of Lord Krishna, Mathura contains some of the oldest hindu temples. One of the seven holy cities, Mathura is also famous for Keshav Dev temple that was built in ancient times on the site of Krishna’s birthplace. Mathura was also the capital of the Surasena Kingdom, ruled by Kansa the maternal uncle of Krishna.

Delhi to Agra distance by trains might be more than 240 kilometers, but soon you will be able to visit the city in 1.5 hours after the superfast train completes its trial period. Hope you have a happy journey to the beautiful historical city.  

About the author:

Atul Chaudhary is a travel enthusiast and passionate travel writer for an online travel search engine in India. Agra is one of his favourite tourist places. He also explore Places to visit in Agra like: Taj Mahal in Agra, best hotels in Agra and trains information.

Ghaziabad - The commercial city sharing boundaries with New Delhi

The commercial city in Uttar Pradesh, Ghaziabad, although part of a different state is often considered as part of Delhi even due to its uber close proximity and accessibility to the national capital. It is so close that working professionals commute to and from from Delhi to this city on a daily basis to work. This article discusses the tourism of the city.

Given its vicinity to the capital Delhi, Ghaziabad is turning into a center point for enormous shopping centers and strip malls. A few shopping centers and malls that have as of now come up pull in individuals from Delhi making Ghaziabad tourism mint revenues like it is today. Ghaziabad is a hotbed for commercial ventures, for example, train upkeep and assembling, protection fabricating businesses, china, embroidered works of art, stoneware, paint and varnish and so forth.

Aside from shops and multiplexes there are a few towns and towns which you can visit around Ghaziabad. One such town is Ajrara, arranged in the Kharkhoda Mandal of Meerut District in Uttar Pradesh. It is from this town that the Ajrara style of table playing gets its name. Another one is Modinagar, named after a well known business group of India. Mohan Nagar is one of the up and coming provinces of NCR and gloats a great framework complete with schools, doctor's facilities and different offices. Muradnagar has three noteworthy learning establishments furthermore makes items for the Indian Armed Forces. At last, there is Dadri, Dadri an up and coming town of innovation and new offices.

Ghaziabad was before a tehsil in the locale of Meerut and in the year 1976, Ghaziabad was proclaimed a region. The nearness of Ghaziabad to Delhi has been an extraordinary point of preference for the improvement of this locale as a modern range. With the ascent in tourism and industrialisation, the economy of the spot has been extraordinarily moved forward. The drowsy mechanical town of Ghaziabad has now changed into an advanced suburb of Delhi. Today, Ghaziabad is considered as one among the most element mechanical urban areas in the nation. 

   
As of late, Ghaziabad has earned a spot as a visitor destination attributable to its regular magnificence. Streams Ganga, Yamuna and Hindon that move through Ghaziabad have kept this spot green. Alongside a the places to visit in Ghaziabad, it likewise open doors for outside exercises. The vicinity to quick streaming waterways has likewise activated different experience water sports at Ghaziabad

A Potpourri of Natural Brilliance - Kerala

Kerala and tourism- these two words are pretty synonymous. With lavish tropical greenery, coconut palms, wonderful serene backwaters with gliding houseboats, quaint temples, exotic Ayurvedic spas and massages, trenches, islands, etc. Kerala exuberates brilliant aspects that  are enough to coax anyone and everyone with a hunger for new experiences from over the globe. Come, take a dive into the luscious greenscapes and get an answer as to why is Kerala known as “God’s Own Country”.

There are many travel portals, both online and offline, that provide with the best Kerala Tour Packages, for these sell like hot cakes, especially during the peak season of October to March. So if you have reserved one for your family and yourself for a blissful holiday down South, then make sure that your travel itinerary has the following major attractions covered. Read ahead.

1. Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple

This is the most well known sanctuary in Kerala. It is located on the edges of Kochi and the two principal gods here are Rajarajeswari and Badrakali. People here believe that these Goddesses are pretty powerful. It is situated in a tranquil environment and whatever your belief or ethnicity is, you can visit this spot without any botheration. It is a standout amongst the most vital vacationer destinations in Kerala and offers you those much needed peaceful moments.

2. Chithari

Green and beautiful, Chithari is still a virgin destination. The island is open just by means of a boat, and frequently by wooden kayaks that are common with the locals. This backwater zone, which is a part of the Bekal Tourism Project, has all it takes to end up a super traveler destination. Chithari is found 7 km from Kanhangad and is an eccentric spot in Kerala. Perfect for couples.

3. Bekal Fort

Formed like a mammoth sized keyhole, the Bekal Fort was built in the seventeenth century and offers a sublime view of the Arabian Sea from its tall towers, which were possessed by gigantic guns, couple of hundreds of years back. Close to the fortification is an old mosque said to have been built by the valiant Tipu Sultan of Mysore. This fort has changed hands throughout the years to the Kolathiri Rajas, the Vijayanagar Empire, Tipu Sultan, and finally to the British East India Company.

4. Poovar Island

One of the best places to visit in Kerala, Poovar Island offers you the best, regarding visionary enjoyments. This is the most sought after estuary in the state as it associates with lake, waterway and the ocean. Take a pontoon journey to appreciate the magnificence that mother has bestowed heartily over this spot. The brilliant sands and the sublime backwaters make a flawless setting for sunset. The spot is additionally renowned for rejuvenating Ayurvedic rubs.

5. Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave

There are rock-cut models dating from the eighteenth century in the cavern sanctuary at Vizhinjam, situated toward the south of Kovalam intersection. The rock hollow here encases a one-celled holy place with a free model of Vinandhara Dakshinamurthi. The external mass of the cavern portrays half-finish relics of the Hindu God Shiva with Goddess Parvathi. Intriguing!

Top 6 Things to Do and Explore During your visit to Nainital

Whether it is a quiet weekend getaway you seek or romantic weekend, Nainital is the place for you. This beautiful hill station set not very far from the national capital of New Delhi is one of the most visited places from the city. This article talks about the things you can do and see during your visit.

One of the most beautiful hill stations in India perfect for a honeymoon or quiet getaway, Nainital makes it in the books of every travel enthusiasts. Nainital's appeal reaches out from sculling over the lake, trekking, touring age old sanctuaries and spots of chronicled significance and some more. The spot is total delight and its steadily expanding number of guests is a confirmation of that claim. It is a very popular getaway destination especially for people living in Delhi. After a well spent vacation you can head back via a Nainital to Delhi taxi adding a fine chapter to your travel log. Specified underneath are a portion of the principle things you should do and see during your visit to Nainital.

Visit the Nainital lake

The primary thing you will see upon your landing from the Kathgodam to Nainital taxi (Kathgodam is the last place you will stop via train) is the great lake around which Nainital is wrapped around. This emerald lake is a much welcomed sight which likewise give you the chance to ride a boat. You could cruise over the lake and stop at focuses where there are restaurants serving various kinds of comfort foods.

Naina Devi Temple

Naina Devi sanctuary rests over banks of Naini Lake and is a well known spot to see in Nainital in May and June. It is trusted that Goddess Sati's eyes fell at precisely the same where this sanctuary is fabricated, which draws in bunches of devotees. The sanctuary can be come to by climbing the highest point of Naina Hill.

Experience the cable car ride

A standout amongst the most energizing encounters you can get in Nainital is riding the cable car. Giving you a perspective of the entire landscape, the experience is both exciting and amazing. The cable car keeps running between hills, valleys, over the Naini lake and the lavish greeneries which looks much all the more better from high up there.

Pay a visit to the caves

Around 2 kms further up from the northern end of the lake, lies a progression of caverns. A section into these caverns are for the bold hearted and individuals who are claustrophobic individuals are exhorted not to get into these holes as there are less openings to discover out once more. Dress ought to be worn legitimately as a great deal of slithering would be included. This is one of the most loved exercises of the thrill seekers.

Eat in Nainital

Everything from Continental, Chinese, Indian, Italian, Tibetan and Thai can be found in the diverse eating options Nainital offers. While the North Indian food are the local favorite, do not forget to try some of the Tibetan and Chinese dishes during your visit.

Trek to the peaks

Trekking up to the hills not only give you the fun and excitement of trekking but it also gives you the amazing breathtaking view of the entire hill station in one view. The best view is generated by the Naini peak which is the  highest peak in Nainital. You will get to see the  magnificent landscape along with the whole view of the emerald lake. 

 

The best and the most approach to reaching Nainital is by a cab via New Delhi. You can easily book a Delhi to Nainital taxi on your smartphone without any prior booking and get on with your journey to the beautiful hill station.

2 Star hotels in Mahabaleshwar: Bharat Hotel

Summary: For an unforgettable holiday experience head to Mahabaleshwar and choose one of the best budget hotels in Mahabaleshwar. With numerous tourism attractions and genuine hospitality they ensure that your trip is sure fun.

Body: Bharat Hotel is located on Tapola Road near New Lake in Mahabaleshwar. Bharat Hotel Mahabaleshwar enjoys proximity to all tourist places in and around the Mahabaleshwar. A budget property, Bharat Hotel offers modern conveniences along with warm hospitality at affordable prices.

How to Reach:

Pune International Airport is 130 Kms from the hotel and Pune Railway Station is 120 Kms from the Hotel. Pick and Drop facility is available from the hotel. Taxis are easily available at the airport/ Railway station for the airport. Book your train tickets well in advance, keep yourself updated with the tickets status by doing PNR status enquiry check at regular time interval, and head to the city for a fun vacation.

Nearby Places of Interest:

Baghdad Point, Mahabaleshwar Temple, Elephant’s Head Point, Pratapgarh Fort, Arthur’s Seat, Mount Malcolm, Elphinston Point, Bombay Point, Venna Lake and Wilson Point.

 The rooms offer iron & ironing board, balcony/sit out, dining table, sofa unit, study table, daily newspaper, safe deposit locker, electronic safe, piped and channel music, fireplace, room heater, mineral water and refrigerator. Mahabaleshwar Bharat Hotel serves delectable multi cuisine fare in its pure vegetarian restaurant. Almost all tour packages of the city includes these tourist attractions. As they are custom-ready so you may choose to pick one if you are constrained with little time.

Some of the amenities that Hotel Bharat in Mahabaleshwar offers are:

• Restaurant
• Tour Desk
• Room Service
• Cable / Satellite TV
• Laundry service

Simply put, Hotel Bharat, is one of the finest stay-over options for the value for money travellers. Counted amongst the best 2 Star hotels in Mahabaleshwar, the hotel offers more than satisfactory stay at reasonable charges. It benefits from its convenient location and offers good connectivity to railway station, airport, and several tourist spots. It is complete of all basic and a couple of luxury amenities, that one looks for

Budget hotels in Pondicherry: Golden Sun Guest House

Summary: Filled with countless tourist attractions, Pondicherry is a city to explore. Head to this old city and choose accommodation from the best budget hotels in Pondicherry for a memorable trip of the city, if your trip is short-lived.

Body: This spectacular hotel refreshes its travelers with a comfortable stay at a reasonable price. This property is well appropriate for accommodation or leisurely breaks. This property provides all modern facilities and relaxing atmosphere. Golden Sun Guest House Port Blair is easily from all places in this city.

How to Reach:

Golden Sun Guest House is 5 Kms from Pondicherry Airport. Pondicherry Railway Station is just 3 Kms from this budget hotel. Taxis are readily available at the airport and the railway station. The hotel too provides pick and drop service. There are several government as privately own buses travelling daily to and from the city from the neighboring cities. Besides, flights and trains are the other two popular modes to reach the city. There are certain indirect Pune to Pondicherry flights and flights from Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Kolkata.

Nearby Places of Interest:

Pondicherry is one of the most popular places to visit in India. Golden Sun Guest House is close to many major attractions of Pondicherry tourism like Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple, Seaside Promenade, Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Paradise Beach, Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges, French War Memorial, Bharati Government Park, Eglise de Sacre Coeur de Jesus Church, French Institute, Eglise de Notre Dame de la Conception Immaculee Church, Chunnambar Boat House, and INTACH Heritage Centre.

Hotel is provides beautifully many designed rooms in this city. The categories have been named like deluxe rooms and suites at Golden Sun Guest House Port Blair. The rooms lend a feel of comfort and homeliness. One is bound to get mesmerized on staying at this wonderful property.

                       

Some of the amenities at the some of the amenities at Golden Sun Guest House in Pondicherry across room categories include:

• CTV with Remote Satellite Channels
• Tourist Information Cell
• Ample Car Parking Facility
• Travel Agency
• Attached Bathroom with Hot and Cold Water
• Car Rental Facility
• Lift Facility
• ATM Facility
• Fire safety system and equipment

In short, those who seek a value for money hotel for their content accommodation can consider choosing the Hotel Golden Sun Guest House. It is one of the best budget hotels in Pondicherry, and effectively caters all the basic as well as some luxury needs related to a content stay.

Hotels in Nasik: Silver Sands Bed And Breakfast

Summary: For those looking for mid-range stay-overs in Nasik, the Hotel Silver Sands Bed And Breakfast makes one fine option. It is among the best hotels in Nasik, located near many of the attractions of the city, and offers a satisfactory stay to all.

Body: This is a 1 Star property which is located at Shyam Nagar, Jaipur, India. Silver Sands Bed And Breakfast Jaipur offers one of the lowest rate accommodation options along with the perfect amenities and polite staff. Silver Sands Bed And Breakfast is conveniently situated nearby from the most beautiful tourist’s destinations.

How to Reach:

 

Silver Sands Bed And Breakfast is 11 Kms from the Jaipur International Airport. Jaipur Railway Station is 1 Kms. Pick and drop can be availed from the hotel. The airport/railway station also has easy availability of the taxis. Book your train tickets in advance so that you will face less hassles while booking the tickets. There are numerous train ticket booking companies and websites that you may use.

Nearby Places of Interest:

This property is nicely situated in the center of the city and some attractions that are nearby from this hotel are City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Amber Fort, Jal Mahal, Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Chokhi Dhani Village, Tejaji Mandir, Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing, Albert Hall Museum, Dolls Museum, The Monkey Temple, Panna Meena ka Kund,Narsingh Temple, Rusirani Village, Diwan-E-Khas, Tripolia Gate, Radha Damodar Temple, Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple and Iswari Minar Swarga Sal. Simply pick from the numerous Nasik tour packages and get going to the city.

Jaipur Silver Sands Bed and Breakfast is known for its affordable accommodation options, well kept rooms and common areas, friendly reservation counter staff, nearby restaurants, and of course, service and staff that try to make your stay at Silver Sands Bed and Breakfast worthwhile.

Some of the amenities at Silver Sands Bed And Breakfast in Jaipur across room categories include:

• Parking facility
• Air Conditioned
• Non-Smoking Rooms
• Room Service
• Dry Cleaning
• Safe deposit Locker
• 24 Hour Reception
• Power backup
• Security Guard
• Telephone
• Attached bathrooms
• Bathrooms toiletries

In a nutshell, the The Silver Sands Bed And Breakfast Hotel is one of the best hotels in Nasik offering a relaxing and comfortable stay to every guest. A value for money hotel, it is located at a convenient location and is well-connected to the tourist spots.