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Agra: The City of the Taj Mahal Its beauty and symmetry are simply beyond description. On my arrival at the monument, the great white marbled complex lifted against the green canopy, shimmering in the crystal waters of the front pool.  For any individual touring India, Agra and the Taj Mahal are must-visit places that Uttar Pradesh Journey define Mughal design and the grandeur of royal heritage in India beyond comparison. Agra is definitely not just about the Taj Mahal. The Agra Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage site, is equally grand in its display of Mughal architecture. This palatial fort, which Emperor Akbar constructed, has that whole range of palaces, mosques, and gardens, but beyond all, it possesses a vista of the Taj Mahal in the distance. The I’timād-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, otherwise known as the “Baby Taj,” is yet another offbeat treasure showcasing extensive and delicate marble work, a signature display of Mughal tombs. Varanasi: Spiritual Heart of India From the lavish Agra was a journey now to Varanasi, a city amongst the oldest living towns in the world.  Kashi, probably the most sacred of the seven sacred cities of Hinduism, has left indelible impressions on those who have visited it. The ghats of the Ganges river, where bathers come to pray, are quite timeless amid the ever-busy, overstuffed streets, the incense smells, and the ringing of temple bells and chanting that conjures an otherworldly feel inviting you to participate in the rhythm of life in this holy city. Floating down the Ghats of the same early morning hour on a boat is something most probably will not make me forget. I saw his sunrise above the water, where the golden lights bathed the river waters; and I saw the morning rituals where pilgrims and believers flow to the ghats for prayers, where sadhus were sitting on meditation attacking a moment in the serenity of the morning. Lucknow: The City of Nawabs Following the spiritual awakening in Varanasi, I traveled to Lucknow, the state capital of Uttar Pradesh. Famous for its rich past, polished behavior, and Nawabi culture, Lucknow is a city with a mix of Mughal, Awadhi, and British influences. The culinary experience of the city is as famous as its buildings, and I was eagerly looking forward to tasting the iconic Tunday Kebab and Lucknawi Petha. Ayodhya: The Birthplace of Lord Ram A visit to Uttar Pradesh would be incomplete without traveling to Ayodhya, Lord Ram’s birthplace, which is one of the most important deities of Hinduism. The town is rich in myth and religious connotations and attracts pilgrims across the globe. The Ram Janmabhoomi, a place considered the birthplace of Lord Ram, is the central hub of religious activity in the city. Ayodhya experienced renewed interest over the past years, with work on the construction of the Ram Mandir(temple) at the site. The temple, when done, will serve as a testimony to Hindu dedication and worship for Lord Ram. Uttar Pradesh Journey During my trip to Ayodhya, I also visited the peaceful ghats of the Saryu River, where devotees go to conduct rituals and pray to the river goddess. Click for another blog

Embarking on a Journey of Shimla: The Queen of Hills- A Journey Through Timeless Beauty Nestled in the bosom of the Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh’s capital, Shimla, is a quaint hill station attracting tourists for years. Who would not want to be called the “Queen of Hills?” The haven also caters to nature lovers, historians, and adventure seekers. Be it a quiet retreat in the pines or an adventure experience into the hills, you can find your something here. I recently visited Shimla, and what I experienced during my stay in the hill station was an enchanting mixture of landscape splendor, a thrown back colonial time, and the magic silences of nature-a sorely needed refuge from the after-the-hornet-life bustle of the city. It is going to be an itinerary of where I shall take you through those beautiful landscapes: busy bazaars and clamor, full of the past of Shimla tourism. Arrival: A Gateway Into the Hills The journey to Shimla starts with the preparations to go. As my train huffed and puffed between Kalka and Shimla, the stunning sight for which I had long waited unfolded before my eyes. The UNESCO World Heritage toy train chugs its way through hills and offers splendid glimpses of valleys, woods, and waterfalls. With the gentle bobbing of the train, and the rolling landscape of green hills and fog-wrapped mountains, the journey to Shimla was as thrilling as the destination itself. When I stepped into Shimla, I breathed the mountain air that immediately hit with its freshness, and the colonial houses of the town welcomed me in that initial moment with a hint of a forgotten past. Immediately, the city with its old houses, narrow streets, and scenic location seemed an immediate flashback to the past. Mall Road: The Heartbeat of Shimla No Shimla trip is complete without a work out on Mall Road-the Main Road leading to town. Mall Road is the throbbing heartbeat and energy of Shimla. Old colonial buildings, vintage shops, trendy cafes, and bustling markets surround it and make it the perfect street to absorb local culture, sample some local cuisine, and get a few souvenirs. As I walked along Mall Road, what lured me to it were the variety of handicrafts offered in the wee markets. Bring wooden toys, in-ornate jewelry, and handlooms. To walk on such cobbled ways, inhale the clear air, and watch the world go by is something very magical. For the gourmands, the Mall Road of Shimla has around a dozen cafes and restaurants indulging all tastes, from Hamachi to continental. I relished a delectable portion of Chana Madre (that is Himachalane chickpea curry), and as an after-course, Shimla tourism I savored a piping hot glass of Kull’s apple cider: a refreshing drink made from the famous apples grown in this region. The Ridge: Place to Breathe and Contemplate An easy walk from Mall Road brings the visitor to The Ridge-an open area boasting a breathtaking view of Shimla and the surrounding mountains. Most major events and cultural functions of the town’s year will be conducted here.  Click for another blog

Goa: A Beach Paradise, Cultural Haven, and Adventure Destination. Goa, located on the west coast of India, is India’s smallest state and one of the country’s most well-known tourist destinations. Goa, with its golden beaches, nightlife, and history museums, is a combination of relaxation, adventure, and culture. Goa has something for each type of traveler-water sport enthusiast, history buff, and party animal. I visited the beach paradise about days ago, and the impressions it left on me were awe-inspiring. With dancing palms, each step in Goa seemed like a carnival of life with a splendid flavor of contrasts in sound, smell, and color. I shall now recount my enchanting stay in Goa and why this little state is a world magnet for tourists. The Beaches: Sun, Sand, and Serenity The first thought that pops into your mind every time you hear Goa is, of course, its beaches. With a coastline of over a hundred kilometers, Goa has some of India’s most striking beaches, which are also equally diverse. From sun-tanning to adventure-packed watersports, the beaches of Goa have seen it all and are the ultimate destination.  My initiation into the experience started off from the Baga Beach, one of the greatest of North Goa tourism journey. Bega was always buzzing with all sorts of fun and adventure activities. Paragliding, jet-skiing, and banana boat rides were in full swing while beach shacks served both cold beers and fresh seafood. I passed the day on the soft golden sands, dipping my toes in the cool water, and soaking up some sunshine. If adventure is what you seek, Baga is the place to be. Just a short hop away lies Anjana Beach, famous among backpackers and the free spirits roaming on the shores. Anjana is an endearing, bohemian place dotted with hippie-style flea markets, yoga retreats, and trance parties. There are also some offbeat cafes and bars along the shore, where you can lay back, listen to good music, sip on cold coconut water, and watch the sun fade into the horizon. The Anjana Flea Market is certainly not to be missed by those looking to take back home some authentic souvenirs ranging from handmade trinkets and accessories to clothes and ornaments. For those who are looking for calmer and less crowded surroundings, Palolo Beach, in South Goa, is the prime spot. The beach, set against a backdrop of cliffs and trees, is often termed “Crescent Beach” owing to its shape; and offers an aura for that quiet getaway away from the crowd. The beach is famous for swimming or kayaking in crystal clear calm waters. If an absolute retreat from the world is what you desire, you may find a couple of beach resorts and cottages with blissful experiences. Unearthing Goa’s Cultural and Historical Treasures Goa tourism journey may be beach-centric when it comes to tourist draw, but the state has much more to offer than walks along the beach. With centuries of history of Portuguese colonization, Goa’s architecture and culture are an emphatic expression of the heritage itself.  click for another blog