80 Results found for Search: local culture
1. Arts village in Hauz Khas, New Delhi.
A beautiful historical village amidst ruins of tombs and gardens, Hauz Khas offers an ethnic ambience and a unique shopping experience. As you stroll along the meandering lanes of this crafts village, you will be surprised by the eclectic range of shops offering everything from designer labels, traditional ensembles, paintings, antique silver artifacts, carpets, jute footwear, to curios and some fine dining restaurants. Lot of these restaurants such as Village Bistro’s Terrace in the Sky overlook the remnants of an ancient college, making it ideal for an alfresco candle-lit dinner.
2. Chokhi Dhani Village, Jaipur.
Experience the colors of traditional Rajasthan at the Chokhi Dhani Village. Chokhi Dhani is a beautifully recreated traditional village, complete with shops, puppeteers, and other local specialties. Initially developed as a theme restaurant, the Village has grown to become an attraction it self. Its mud huts, camel rides, traditional barbers, fair games, and food stalls are reminiscent of an older and simpler Rajasthan. A family adventure, Chokhi Dhani is still most popular for its multi course, sit down, traditional Rajasthani meal.
3. Dilli Haat, New Delhi.
A spacious six-acre area in the heart of Delhi, Dilli Haat attempts to recreate the traditional weekly bazaar ambience. Stalls housed in thatched huts and bricked houses offer ethnic specialties from different regions across India. Dilli Haat is creatively landscaped with a paved stone plaza interspersed with flowering planters, shrubs, grass, and towering eucalyptus trees. Here artisans from various parts of the country display their creations in an open-air setting. Shop for armloads of ethnic artifacts, junk jewelry, traditional Indian outfits, besides footwear, metal crafts, pottery, and dainty scarves among others.
4. Ice Skating, Shimla.
Shimla has the only natural ice-skating rink in Asia. Skiers of all ages head to the rink to enjoy ice-skating, ice-hockey, and take part in skiing, figure-skating and short track speed skating competitions, in addition to fancy dress shows for children. The ice-skating rink conducts two sessions per day one in the morning and one in the evening from December to February. Skates can be rented for a nominal fee and temporary membership for single sessions is also available.
5. Lotus Temple, New Delhi.
A 20th century architectural marvel, this lotus-shaped Bahai temple is open to all faiths and is an ideal place to meditate in peace. Located in the South Delhi locality of Kalkaji, the lotus bud-shape of the temple is made of white marble, cement, dolomite and sand. In fact it is last of the seven major Bahai temples built around the world.
6. Garjia Temple, Corbett.
This is an ancient temple dedicated to local deity Garjia Devi atop a tall ridge in the midst of Kosi River. About 14 kilometers (8.75 miles) from Ramnagar en route Ranikhet, Garjia temple is a pretty little shrine surrounded by copious greenery and flanked by the gurgling Kosi River. Ramnagar is the last bus terminus from where the temple site is some 14 odd kilometers, which one can cover in a private taxi or own vehicle. A fair is held in the temple premise on Kartik Poornima when devotees from Kumaon and across the country throng it to take part in the festivities and offer their prayers to the Goddess.
7. Shilpgram, Udaipur.
Shilpgram is a pretty crafts village about 3 kilometers (2 miles) west of Udaipur near Havala village. This ethnic village hosts a crafts fair every year in November/December for 10 days, where artisans from different regions of the country display their creations. Sprawled out over 70 acres of land surrounded by the rugged Aravallis, this Rural Arts and Crafts Complex is conceived as an ethnographic museum to showcase the lifestyles of the tribal people of the west zone. You will come across traditional thatched, mud huts displaying artwork from all over Rajasthan, as well as the states of Gujarat, Goa and Maharashtra. The interiors of these traditional huts are mirrored and offer hand woven clothes, embroideries, mirror works, pottery, beadwork, wood carving and an array of handicraft.
8. Shopping Tour in Old City, Jaipur.
For over 200 years, the bazaars in the old city of Jaipur have enticed shoppers with glittering jewels, colorful textiles, handmade brass utensils, crafted leather shoes, puppets, and many other novelties. The wide albeit crowded streets are lined with glittering showrooms and hole-in-the-wall bargain shops. The many wares spilling on to the streets and young shop assistants callings out, the bazaars of Jaipur are an exciting adventure. Even the weary shopper will be surprised with the bargains available and may be prompted to loosen the purse strings on a jewel-encrusted trinket.
9. Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, New Delhi.
The magnanimity of the complex is the first thing that strikes you about Swaminarayan Akshardham. Its ornate temple architecture on sandstone is intricate and reflects the essence of India’s ancient traditions and timeless spirituality. The sprawling complex is spread across 30 acres on the banks of Yamuna near Noida Mor in East Delhi. The main monument is an architectural marvel in pink sandstone and white marble, covered with 20,000 sculptures and statues of deities and 234 ornate pillars. The temple is 42-meter-high (141 feet), 95-meter-wide (316 feet) and has eleven 22-meter-high (72 feet) domes and decorative arches. You will notice that the whole monument rises on the backs of 148 elephant sculptures, each sporting a unique posture, and a 3 meter (11 feet) panchdhatu statue surmounting the structure.
10. Tea Museum and processing unit, Munnar.
On a sightseeing excursion in Munnar, a trip to the Tea Museum run by Tata Tea is highly recommended. The museum has been built in the Nallathanni estate of Tata Tea. Its collection of memorabilia and artifacts takes you back in time when the tea industry had just begun to make its presence felt in Munnar in 1880s. Browse the museum for its array of curios, photographs and machineries, each depicting important events that contributed to a flourishing tea industry. While panning through the museum, you are bound to notice and compare the rudimentary tea roller with the modern fully automated tea factory.
11. Tribal Heritage Program, Thekkady.
Sign up for the Tribal Heritage Program in Periyar and get a glimpse into the lives of the Mannan tribes that are among the oldest indigenous group to inhabit Periyar Tiger Reserve. These tribes continued living in the remotest areas of the tiger reserve till the late 40’s, eking out a living by fishing in the lake and engaging in some cultivation. In this two-hour journey, you will be taken on a nature trail to the grey thatched tribal hamlets, shown the traditional fishing and hunting gear, musical instruments, household articles, indigenous medicinal plants, and finally to the Tribal Heritage Museum.
12. Akkulam Lake and Tourist Village, Trivandrum.
The picturesque Akkulam Lake is about 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) from Ulloor junction in Trivandrum city, and about 10 kilometers (6.25 miles) from the central railway station. Set on its banks is the Akkulam Tourist Village with a sprawling children’s park, snack bar and paddle pool. There is also a large swimming pool where you can enjoy a refreshing dip before heading out to the snack bar for a cup of coffee. The Akkulam Lake is a part of the Veli Lake, and the tourist village is spread out on a sand bar that separates the Veli Lagoon from the Arabian Sea.
13. Anchuthengu Fort, Kovalam.
About 36 kilometers (22.5 miles) from Trivandrum city and 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from Varkala, Anchuthengu is a place of historical relevance amid gorgeous coastal scenery. Crowning the bluff is the 17th century Anchuthengu Fort standing testimony to the architectural elegance of the British. This fort on the outskirts of Kovalam is believed to be one of the oldest trading posts set up during the colonial era in India. It was built in 1800s as an impregnable bastion of the British East India Company and till today retains a palpable English aura.
14. Anjengo Fort, Varkala.
An important trading station of the British, Anjengo Fort is about 36 kilometers (22.5 miles) north of Trivandrum city and some 18 kilometers (11.25 miles) from Sivagiri Mutt in Varkala. This is a lovely seaside drive from the mutt and opens up innumerable photo opportunities. On a sightseeing excursion around Varkala, it is worth popping into this fort set up by the English East India Company as a strategic garrison in 1684. The structure was raised in 1695 as a signal station or lighthouse for ships coming in from England. Anjengo literally stands for ‘Anju Thengu’ meaning five coconut trees in Malayalam.
15. Beema Palli, Kovalam.
Some 5 kilometers (3.12 miles) south of Trivandrum city on the coast is this holy site ‘Beema Palli’ famous for its mosque by the same name. This Muslim pilgrimage site is dedicated to Beema Beevi, a pious Muslim lady believed to have possessed divine powers. True to Kerala’s secular nature, the mosque receives more non-Muslim devotees than Muslims. The 10-day-long Chandanakundam festival beginning on the first of Jama dul Akbar (March-April) of the Hijra year brings tens of thousands of pilgrims to the shrine.
16. Chowara, Kovalam.
Another fishing village, Chowara is a long stretch of virgin sand, about 8 kilometers (5 miles) south of the main Kovalam beach and Vizhinjam. It is a secluded stretch ideal for long walks and soaking up the local sights and sounds. On an amble down the coastline, eagles and kites soaring in circles above the sea near the beach, is a common sight. Chowara is famous for its Ayyappa temple nestled atop a hillock overlooking the beach. The celebrations go on for 56 days beginning November 15 to the mid of January, and is attended by thousands of devotees from across Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
17. Dharamkot and the Triund Day Hike, McLeodganj.
On the crest of a hill above McLeodganj, Dharamkot is an attractive spot that presents a wide view of the Kangra valley and the Dhauladhar ranges. There are a couple of small (and interesting) eateries around. Dharamkot also has the Vipassana meditation centre, Dhamma Shikara, as well as the Tushita Meditation Centre which is a centre for the study and practice of Buddhism in the Tibetan Mahayana tradition. Past Dharamkot, at a distance of 9 km from McLeodganj, much of which is a steady climb, Triund is at the foot of the Dhauladhar ranges and is at a height of 2,827 m. The snow line, which is considered to be the most easily accessible in the entire Himalayan range starts from Ilaqua, 4 km from Triund.
18. Ganpati festival, Pune.
The chief event of the region – the Ganapati festival – is devoted to Lord Ganesha (the Elephant God) and is celebrated, since 1894, during the months of August-September. The 10-day long ‘Ganesh Chaturthi’ ends with a procession, in which hundreds of Ganesha idols are carried on floats to be immersed in the nearby rivers, thereby bringing the entire city to a standstill.
19. Gramam: The Kerala Village Fair, Kovalam.
Find out everything you wanted to know about Kerala’s rich culture and heritage at Gramam – the great Kerala village fair. This 10-day-long fair is celebrated from 14 to 23rd January every year on Kovalam Beach and the Marine Drive in Ernakulam. An initiative by the state tourism department, Gramam (meaning a traditional village in Malayalam) aims at recreating an entire village to include the Nalukettu - a quadrangular homestead of the upper class, Chayakada or the village teashop and Kamalagramam or the artisan’s enclave.
20. Kovalam Beach, Kovalam.
An erstwhile fishing village known for its fresh fish, fruits and toddy (coconut beer), Kovalam in Kerala is often referred to as the ‘Paradise of the South’. Idyllic and flamboyant, the crescent-shaped beaches of Kovalam have a character of their own. Kovalam opens up a vista of soft sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters and a rocky promontory crowded by coconut groves. The beach gets gentle waves making swimming refreshing and exhilarating. You can even wade into the sea for about 100 meters without losing ground! Look-out for some brilliant patches of coral reefs. Kayaking, surfing and skiing are other popular water activities in Kovalam.
21. Ponnumthuruth (Golden Island), Varkala.
The verdant Ponnumthuruth (meaning Golden Island) is in the middle of the placid backwaters near Varkala. Untouched now for centuries, this virgin island is a vibrant ecosystem home to a variety of flora and fauna. There is a still beauty about the place, occasionally broken by the rustling of wind through palm trees, the twittering of birds or the gentle lapping on water on the white beach. Amble down the coastline, enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and listen to the fishermen as they hum earthy songs while casting their nets in the lake.
22. Pozhikkara Beach, Kovalam.
A world away from the high profile holiday culture of Kovalam are the white sands of Pozhikkara tucked away in a little fishing hamlet, Pachalloor, about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) north of Samudra beach. On a drive from Kovalam, you will pass through a string of quaint fishing villages before arriving at Pozhikkara where the backwater merges with the Arabian Sea to form a salt-water lagoon. A thick canopy of palm lines this pristine stretch of sand which the locals use mostly for landing fish and fixing nets. The clear aqua blue water entices you to take a dip.
23. Tibetan Handicrafts Centre, Dalhousie.
This is a handicraft centre run by Tibetan refugees and is a couple kilometers after Gandhi Chowk, en route to Khajjiar. Carpet weaving is the main industry. Tibetan carpets, apart from their distinct motifs that include the lotus or the conch, and even yaks, are heavy and chunky. The woolen yarn is also thick and the colors strong. The pile is normally half an inch thick. The knots per square inch vary between 30 and 80, with around 50 as the normal. The Tibetan handicraft shop at Gandhi Chowk has some of these on display and sale. At the Handicraft Centre you can also place an order; a catalogue with designs and prices is available.
24. Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA), McLeodganj.
In August 1959, within a few months of arriving in India, His Holiness the Dalai Lama established the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA). To prevent ancient traditions and skills from vanishing and also to strengthen them, TIPA preserves and develops the skills of traditional Tibetan performing arts like dance, music and opera. Today, TIPA has over a hundred members. This includes artistes, instructors, administrative staff and craftsmen. TIPA sends its troupes to perform in different Tibetan settlements to keep the flame of its culture alive. Performances are also held at McLeodganj and other places in India. TIPA’s troupes have performed in twenty different countries and on an average, the artistes undertake five to six tours every year.
25. Valliathura Pier, Kovalam.
Something very like the famed cliff divers of Acapulco in Mexico, the local fishermen of Kovalam plunge into a swollen sea during monsoon to swim and latch on to their unmanned catamarans drifting on the sea. Queer as it sounds, at Valliathura pier, about 10 kilometers (6.25 miles) from Kovalam, during monsoon when the sea turns tumultuous making it difficult for fishermen to launch their boats from the beach, they carry their catamarans to the edge of the pier and hurl them into the sea. After which they jump with nonchalance into the roaring water and race against the waves to their catamarans.
26. Vellayani Lake, Kovalam.
This 750-hectare freshwater lake is one of the two in Kerala, and about 7 kilometers (4.37 miles) from Kovalam via Poonkulam junction. The other being Sasthamkotta lake in Kollam district. Vellayani is a picturesque village on the outskirts of Trivandrum city. Blessedly, modern day constructions in and around Trivandrum have not touched the serenity of this lake. The area surrounding it still remains largely unspoilt. Little wonder, it serves as the venue for Kerala’s favorite sport, snake boat race held during the harvest festival, Onam. Behold the beauty of the lake on a full moon night - the shimmering waters against dark foliage make it look other-worldly.
27. Vizhinjam Village, Kovalam.
Just 2 kilometers (1.25 miles) south of touristy Kovalam is a lesser-known fishing harbor, Vizhinjam. Vizhinjam is a natural port busy with fishing boats and fishermen jostling for space to venture into the sea. This fishing village is earthy and rustic, very different from the atmospheric, plush resort-speckled Kovalam. To be fair, Vizhinjam is quite a find within the circumference of Kovalam, and offers some fascinating historical treasures. The Kerala government is working towards making it a major port. Look up the Marine Aquarium near Theatre Junction. The ramshackle, nondescript building in which it is housed betrays the wealth of aquatic species within.
28. Bandra and Linking Road, Mumbai.
If one is looking to get a feel of an upmarket suburb in Mumbai, Bandra would be a good bet. Relax in a cafe, check out bookshops, walk the leafy bylanes, visit a church, walk past the fire temple, see the house of a film star up close...Bandra, especially the western part, is as chic as Mumbai gets. A good mix of modern highrises with old world bungalows, art galleries, wellness stores, home decor accessories, cafes, trendy bars coupled with undulating landscape and seaside views lend Bandra a relaxed, feel-good atmosphere. Small wonder, Bandra is often referred to as the ‘Queen Of The Suburbs.’
29. Channapatna, Bangalore.
Channapatna is famous for its lacquerware toys and is aptly called "gonmbegala ooru" meaning toyland. It is situated about 60 kilometer (37.5 miles) southwest of Bangalore and 40 kilometer (25 miles) from Mysore, in Ramanagaram district. The toy industry affects almost the whole town in some way or the other. More than 6000 people are an active part of it – there are 254 home manufacturing units and 50 small factories here. It was Tipu Sultan who invited artisans from Persia to train local artisans to make toys out of ivory wood or Ala mara, as it is locally known.
30. Gunhill, Mussoorie.
A curious daily ritual is associated with the Gunhill from the British era, in which a cannon would be shot from the top of this flat-hill. Hence, the name Gunhill. Today, it is one of Mussoorie’s popular tourist sites. Gunhill is the second-highest peak of Mussoorie after Lal Tibba and offers clear and beautiful views of the Himalayan peaks. The most popular way to reach Gunhill is through the Mussoorie Ropeway. The Ropeway is an enclosed cable-car system that begins from the Mall Road and goes up to Gunhill.
31. Haji Ali Dargah and Mosque , Mumbai.
Located on a tiny islet along the coast of Worli, Haji Ali dargah (tomb) is one of the city’s landmarks. Driving down from Worli, the sight of a dargah, in the waters of the Arabian Sea, is one for sore eyes. Connected to the city’s mainland at Mahalakshmi by a long, narrow causeway, the dargah remains out of bounds during high tide. On such occasions it looks like a tiny island. Visitors can thus go to the dargah only during low tide. The walk on the causeway, with the sea on either side, is one of the highlights of a visit to the shrine. Many films have been shot here for the dramatic backdrop it offers. The setting is so picturesque that whether or no you are spiritually inclined, the all pervasive serenity of the place will leave a lasting impression.
32. Janapada Loka, Bangalore.
If you want to escape the bustle of city life, enter the portals of Janapada Loka near Ramanagaram, around 53 kilometers (33.12 miles) away from Bangalore. Spread out over 15 acres, the institution works towards preserving and promoting folk art and culture. The brainchild of the late H L Nage Gowda, Janapada Loka recreates rural milieus and brings together folk literature, music, dance, festivals, sculpture and lifestyle. The imposing main entrance is the chief attraction of Janapada Loka, adorned as it is with hariges and trumpets and tall brass Nandidwajas.
33. Lalbagh, Bangalore.
The Lalbagh Botanical Garden has been described as a pendant in Bangalore’s necklace of gardens. Initially designed along the lines of an extensive Mughal garden at Sira in Tumkur near Bangalore, the park now sprawls across 240 acres and is every botanist’s and horticulturist’s delight. Not that its pleasures don’t delight the common man who can spend hours walking around, soaking in the tranquility and marvelling at the greenery, the lotus ponds, fountains, the Glass House and stone formations that date back over 3 billion years.
34. Nrityagram or Hesarghatta, Bangalore.
Nrityagram Dance Village, founded by danseuse Protima Gauri, is India's first modern Gurukul (residential school). Situated around 30 kilometer (18.75 miles) from Bangalore in Hesarghatta, it was designed by architect Gerard Da Cunha. “Protima’s dream was a passionate one: I dream of building a community of dancers in a forsaken place amidst nature. A place where nothing exists, except dance. A place where you breathe, eat, sleep, dream, talk, imagine -- dance.” The dream is played out every day when students from all over the world come here to train in various Indian dance forms.
35. Prithvi Theatre, Mumbai.
Prithvi Theatre is one of the hubs of Mumbai’s intelligentsia. The haunt of film and theatre personalities, poets, painters and artists at large; a visit here is a must just to experience its creative atmosphere. Celebrities from the performing arts interacting with each other, wannabe theatre enthusiasts sipping their Irish coffees, others rehearsing their lines are scenes that’ll greet you on most days. Located in the Juhu area, Prithvi Theatre is tucked away in a quiet by-lane. An understate charm is all pervasive. One can often see Sanjana Kapoor running the show here in a hands on manner. Step into the 'Prithvi Cafe' for a campus ritual - a cup of Irish coffee and take in the ambience.
36. Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai.
This is Mumbai's most popular religious place by a distance. Although Mahalaxmi and Babulnath temples also draw lot of devotees, the kind of reverence Mumbaikars hold Siddhivinayak in, elevates it to the pinnacle. Dedicated to Maharashtra’s favorite deity, Lord Ganesh, the Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Mandir is located in Prabhadevi area of central Mumbai. Built in the early 1800s, the temple has a small mandap (hall) with the shrine for Siddhi Vinayak ('Ganesh who grants one's wish'). The wooden doors to the sanctum are carved with images of Ashtavinayak (the eight manifestations of Ganesh, particularly popular in Maharashtra). Shree Siddhivinayak is considered to be one of the Ashta Vinayak shrines of Maharashtra, celebrating eight legends related to Lord Ganesha. The inner roof of the sanctum is plated with gold, with the idol of Ganesh dominating the inner chamber. The idol of Ganesh is also called ‘Chaturbhuj’ as it has four arms. The upper right hand with a lotus symbolizes auspicious piety. The upper left holds a small axe, while a Japmala (rosary of rudrakash beads) is held in the lower right. And the lower left holds a bowl full of Modaks (favorite delicacy of the Lord), one that makes him popular with kids in particular.
37. Subathu and Kuthar, Kasauli.
Subathu was a major recruitment center for Gurkhas in the British Indian army. This is now the Regimental Center for the Gurkhas. At an altitude of some 4,500 feet and 27 kms from Kasauli, Subathu is surrounded by scrub and bamboo forests and a few pines and huge eucalyptus trees. This little army town is quite spotless and its dressed-stone buildings are well maintained. One of the more remarkable structures in Subathu is the old ‘viceregal lodge’ designed in 1880 which was used by the Governors-General when they passed through the station. The old cemetery is also well worth a visit. About 20 kms from Subathu, the erstwhile princely state of Kuthar lies near the cantonment of Subathu above the banks of the Gambar stream. The oldest section of the palace, which is the main structure in the area, is regarded to be over 800 years old. Some sections are in a dilapidated condition but the frescoes on the walls are noteworthy.
38. Thiruvaiyaru, Thanjavur.
A serene panchayat town on the banks of River Cauvery, Thiruvaiyaru in the Thanjavur district is known for its ancient Lord Shiva temple, and for being the birthplace of the legendary 18th century music composer, Saint Thyagaraja. Thiruvaiyaru is about 13 kilometer (8.12 miles) north-west of main Thanjavur city, and has over the years become quite a hub for art, culture and religion. Devotees make trips year round to worship at the sacred shrine of Panchanatheeswar, while music connoisseurs congregate every January for the eight-day festival of Carnatic music in honor of the great saint, Thyagaraja.
39. Thiruvalluvar Statue, Kanyakumari.
A recent piece of construction on the rock adjacent to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue is a 133-foot tall (40.5 meters) stone sculpture of Tamil poet and saint Thiruvalluvar. The structure stands 400 meters from the coastline on a minor rock, in memory of this noble saint who gave golden words of wisdom through his philosophical work ‘Thirukkural’ – a treatise in Tamil on the Indian way of life. It was the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Dr. M. Karunanidhi who conceived the building of a memorial to Thiruvalluvar.
40. Upper Mall and The Kasauli Club., Kasauli.
The Upper Mall veers sharply off behind the shops that lie just above the bus stand or takes a gentler incline past the shops, near the Tibetan stalls. Unlike the Lower Mall, which is more of less level, the Upper Mall is almost entirely uphill. And while the Lower Mall has shops, banks and other commercial establishments, the Upper Mall has almost none – barring the odd small vendor. This is also where the grand old man of letters, Khushwant Singh has his home and where he spends a fair bit of time (the other famous name connected with Kasauli is that of Ruskin Bond, who was born in Kasauli). Another well-known resident on this stretch is the artist Vivan Sundaram. The vegetation along the Upper Mall comes closer to what one would find in the mid-Himalayas and pines give way to stately cedars. The landmark Kasauli Club, which is about a hundred and twenty-five years old, is along the Upper Mall.
41. Kanyakumari Day Excursion, Trivandrum.
The southernmost tip of the Indian mainland, Kanyakumari is truly unique destination. Sprawled out on the shore of this great ‘Triveni sangam’, the confluence of the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean, Kanyakumari is known for its beautiful temples, chief among them is the Kumari Amman temple, a colorful beach bazaar and the Vivekananda Rock Memorial standing sentinel over the sea. Just as famous is the Padmanabhapuram Palace, an 16th century monument made entirely of wood. Less than 100 kilometers Trivandrum, Kanyakumari is just a few hours drive away, through smooth metalled roads that offer gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside.
42. Rainawari, Srinagar.
In his eventful life, the sixth Sikh Guru, Hargobind traveled to Kashmir. In Srinagar, on the southern side of the Hari Parbat fort, near the Kathi Darwaza which leads to the locality of Rainawari, is the Gurudwara Chatti Patshahi, which commemorates the Guru’s sojourn. The Gurudwara has been built at the site of the house that belonged to Mai Bhagbhari, who was his follower and where he stayed during his visit. The Gurudwara, which has been recently reconstructed and its gleaming white domes can be seen from a distance. This has a large rectangular hall and the sanctum is in the center. A large terrace lies before this. Close by, is a well said to have been dug at the behest of Guru Hargobind. This is considered to be the most sacred Sikh shrine in Kashmir. At the Gurudwara, ‘langar’ community food is offered to all.
43. Tomb of Madin Sahib, Srinagar.
The tomb of Madin Shah, a well known and highly venerated saint of Kashmir, lies just north of the Madin Shah Mosque in the Zadibal locality of Srinagar. Architecturally, this is one of the most attractive tombs in the area. At one point of time, this must have presented a brilliant sight as the walls were covered with decorative glazed tiles, though today, much is missing. One of the most striking representations on the tomb is of a beast that has the body of a leopard; this changes at the neck into the trunk of a human being.
44. Batseri, Sangla Valley.
The village lies along a hill slope and has narrow well marked paths – with a little marker at every little crossing. Along its slopes and level stretches, Batseri also displays some of the unusual traditional architectural methods of the area. The small temple of Badri Narayan is an exemplary piece of craftsmanship with superb carvings along its panels and finely worked slate for the roof. An interesting little piece of sacred architecture is the large prayer wheel housed in a little shelter high up the village; it is turned by stream waters.
45. Bhandasar Jain Temple, Bikaner.
Marbled floors, etched pillars and walls adorned with gold leaf work, the three-storied Bhandasar Jain temple is one of the most magnificent instances of its kind in Rajasthan. Commissioned in 1468 by Bhanda Shah Oswal, a famous businessman, and completed in 1514, this structure, dedicated to the 5th Jain tirthankar Sumatinath, is an artistic recreation of Jain philosophy towards life and the world around us. With intricate gold inlay work, each floor has its own eye-catching feature, be it carved marble pillars with floral patterns, silver platform, or expansive balconies that offer a stunning view of the surrounding landscape.
46. Bolghatty Island, Kochi.
One of the smaller islands in Kochi, Bolghatty’s romantic appeal draws many honeymooners. At the heart of Bolghatty is the palace built by the Dutch in 1744. This is the oldest Dutch Palace outside of Netherlands. Its high ceiling interiors, slanting tile roof and sprawling greens all around lend the place a unique charm.
47. Camel Festival, Bikaner.
One of the most exclusive, awe-inspiring and colorful festivals of the land, the Camel Festival organized by Rajasthan’s Department of Tourism, Art & Culture in January brings together Bikaner’s entire populace. The event revels the audience, who assemble from far and wide, with spectacular camel dances, races, rides and camel shows. Numerous competitions are also held to adjudge the best-decorated camel, best fur-cutting design, best camel haircut, among others. On sale are tea and sweets made of rich camel milk. The evenings’ highlights are cultural performances by renowned and folk artists of the region.
48. Chitkul, Sangla Valley.
Chitkul is the last inhabited village in the valley. The drive to this is along a road that lies close to the river bank. Chitkul is a village where the wood and stone structures seem to have been inspired by a old-fashioned fairy tale. This also has three temples dedicated to the goddess Mathi. The main temple is believed to be around six hundred years old.
49. Choglamsar SOS Village, Stok Palace, Leh.
The SOS Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV), a milestone achievement and an enthusiastic foray into social development, is an institutional effort at spreading child education initiated through a joint collaboration of his Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Indian Government. Aptly dubbed as the “Oasis in the Desert,” the SOS TCV became operational in 1975 and now offers quality education to more than 1400 children, backed up by modern facilities and the support of about 200 dedicated staff. Built in the first quarter of the 19th century by the last ruler of Ladakh, King Tsespal Tondup Namgyal, the Stok Palace is a four storey edifice constructed over a large heap of moraine. Within the palace complex is the Stok or Stak Museum, which houses such valuable royal family artifacts like thangkas, traditional attires, jewelry, weapons and Buddhist art. An interesting thing that you will notice here is the decking of the ceremonial headdresses (Peraks) of the kings with valuable stones like turquoise, coral, lapis lazuli and even gold.
50. Folklore Museum, Mysore.
The Folklore Museum was set up in 1968 and true to its name it has a spectacular collection of more than 6,500 unique folk items from themes related to music, dance and drama. The museum is located in the Mysore University Campus which also houses the Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion.
The museum has a great collection of regional garments, musical instruments and ceremonial headgear, leather puppets, lamps and ornamental wooden altar. A wide variety of objects belonging to Soliga tribe are also exhibited at the museum - village deities, saw dust dolls, jewellery, cooking utensils etc. The museum has the costumes, masks and puppets from the classic art form -Yakshagana.
51. Fort Kochi, Kochi.
The defining images of Kochi are primarily from this historic island. The Chinese fishing nets, the medieval churches, the colonial bungalows, Jew town, Mattancherry Palace…et al. are all in this island. Most history and heritage lovers make a beeline for Fort Kochi. Its quiet, tree lined roads are tailor made for walking and cycling. And most of the attractions are within short distance of each other.
This was the site of the first European settlement in India. The Portuguese settled here in the early part of the 16th century. Soon after Kochi’s standing as a rich trade centre, a vibrant cultural hub and a great shipyard took root. This attracted other naval powers of the time like the Dutch and the British. The Dutch dethroned the Portuguese in 1663 and later handed over reigns to the British in 1795 as part of a deal. Today, centuries later, strolling through town brings a traveler face to face with many colonial monuments and communities with a distinct western lifestyle. The social and architectural variety here is simply delightful.
52. Gangaur Festival, Bikaner.
Dedicated to Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva's consort, the 18-day long Gangaur festival is the most important local event of Rajasthan. Marking the end of winter and the beginning of spring, it holds special significance to the womenfolk of the region. While the unmarried young girls pray to be blessed with good spouses, the married women observe the celebrations for the welfare, health and long life of their husbands and a happy married life. Marked with long processions, preparation of sweet dishes, songs and dancing, the Gangaur festival epitomizes hope, prayers and cultural fervor amidst the barren landscape of Bikaner.
53. Hikes and treks, Sangla Valley.
The Sangla Valley has some of the finest easy hikes that can be done in the western Himalaya – and some grueling trek trails too. There are what an experienced trekker will call ‘easy walks’ like the ever popular Batseri to Raksham walk that takes a couple of hours and passes through woods of Himalayan cedar (deodar) and birch, or the somewhat more demanding Raksham to Chitkul hike.
54. Jain Havelis, Bikaner.
A popular tourist destination, the Jain Havelis, are ancient mansions of the affluent nobility of the region. There are numerous such havelis strewn all across Bikaner.
55. Kalady, Kochi.
For the cultural traveler Kalady (also spelt as Kaladi) holds special significance. Located 35 kilometers (21.7 miles) from Kochi via Aluva, this small town is the birthplace of the famous Hindu philosopher, Sri Adi Sankaracharya. In 8th century CE Sri Adi Sankaracharya played a pivotal role in the revival of Hinduism across India. Buddhism then held sway over large parts of India. Traveling across India, he had many a debate with scholars of the time and spread his Vedanta philosophy called ‘Advaita’ (Non-dualism of the self and the divine self). He founded four mathas as seats of learning and faith in each of India’s four zones - Sringeri in Karnataka (south), Dwaraka in Gujarat (west), Puri in Orissa (east), and Joshimath in Uttarakhand (north). The heads of these four mathas are bestowed the title of Shankaracharya (‘the learned one’).
56. Karnimata Temple, Bikaner.
Located around 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) south of Bikaner, en route to Jodhpur, in a village called Deshnok, lies this truly unusual temple dedicated to Karnimata (an incarnation of Goddess Durga). It is not the beautifully crafted marble façade, or the solid silver doors that lend the structure its exclusivity, but its residents. This 15th century edifice is where thousands of pilgrims throng daily to make offerings to around 20,000 rats that have been a part of the temple ever since anyone can remember! It is believed that the rodents are ancestors of the local people, and are hence regarded as sacred.
57. Katariasar Village, Bikaner.
About an hour's drive from Bikaner lies the picturesque Katariasar village, which offers its visitors a sneak peek into the rustic life of Rajasthan and is famous for its fire dancers.
58. Kotagiri, Ooty.
33 kilometers southeast of Ooty, Kotagiri is one of three popular hill stations in the Nilgiris along with Ooty and Coonoor. The land has some gold mines which were used in the Raj period and was then a preferred British destination. The large number of British style cottages surrounding this area bear testimony to this. John Sullivan’s bungalow in Kannerimukku, 20 mins drive away, is open for public viewing.
This area just below Coonoor along the slopes of the Nilgiri hills has been the traditional home of the 'Kota' tribes. The name ‘Kota-giri’ means ‘Mountain of the Kotas’. While the Todas are the traditional agriculturists of the Nilgiris, the Kotas have traditionally been artisans and are experts in the art of pottery and terracotta baking. A very reclusive community, their reluctance to mix with outsiders has resulted in a sharp decline in their numbers.
59. Kumbalanghi, Kochi.
Situated in the backwaters of Ernakulam district, Kumbalanghi village is part of the ‘Explore Rural India’ initiative by the department of tourism, India. Good connectivity, home stay options and a picturesque setting make it an ideal choice for travelers interested in getting close up glimpse of Kerala’s rural life. This innovative initiative has now made it possible to enjoy an offbeat community experience without facing any logistical constraints.
Kumbalanghi is literally surrounded by the backwaters. A chain of Chinese fishing nets lend an exotic touch to the idyllic landscape of the village. Fishing is the mainstay of the village economy followed by coir weaving and boat building. Visitors to this village can do a number of interesting activities. Walk or cycle through the village paths, watch fishing folk at work, try your own hand at fishing, toddy tapping or coir spinning, go canoeing or take a leisurely cruise through the canals and waterways.
60. Laxmi Nath Temple, Bikaner.
One of Bikaner's oldest temples, the Laxmi Nath temple is an architectural marvel that depicts the commendable prowess of the artisans of the day. It also holds special historical significance as it was at that precise location Rao Bikaji had laid the foundation of Bikaner in 1488. A principal shrine of the Vaishnavas, it houses the idols of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi and is visited by numerous devotees all round the year.
61. Morang, Kalpa.
The village of Moorang is one the most beautifully located ones in the district of Kinnaur and lies on left bank of the river Satluj near the confluence with the Tirang. The river Satluj has played a considerable role in shaping the history and culture of Kinnaur. This river is sixteen hundred kilometers long and is a tributary of the Indus and has its source in a lake known as the ‘Rakshasa Taal’, literally ‘the lake of demons’. On the western highlands of Tibet, some three hundred kilometers east of the Indian border, its waters are separated by a bare two kilometers from its famous twin, the fabled tarn of Mansarovar - which is also referred to as Ma-fa-mu and Mapan Lake. At a height of just over 4,500 meters these lakes rest in the Nagari prefecture of China. Apart from the west, which faces the river, Moorang is surrounded by high mountains. The path to the village goes through apricot orchards and with the backdrop of the high hills, the river valley and traditional architecture, this creates a remarkable visual treat.
62. Nako, Kalpa.
For good reason it is often said that Nako is the most attractive village in Kinnaur – it is majestically sited and is a place where time seems to have stood still for centuries. Its hundred or so stone houses are built around a little lake and depending on where you stand, the visual perspective is such, that at times, many of them seem to be half buried under the soil. The lake is fringed with trees of willow and poplar and every bit of flat land has been made arable.
Nako is at an altitude of 3,662 meters above sea level and at a distance of a hundred and twenty-eight kilometers from Kalpa; the village is a couple of kilometers above the Hangrang valley road. The village deity is called Deodum. The main monastic complex of Nako lies towards the north of the village and has four temples. The site is believed to have been the site of a large Drugpa monastery and was founded by Lotsaba Rinchen Zangpo, during the reign of King Yeshe-Od of the western Tibetan kingdom of Guge. The complex is called the Locha lha-khang. On the southwest are the remains of some monks’ chambers and a few chortens.
63. Pardesi Synagogue, Kochi.
Pardesi Synagogue is a symbol of Kochi’s religious diversity. Located at the end of Jew Street, this synagogue gets its name from the fact that it was the place of worship of ‘white Jews’ (hence Pardesi or foreign). Once upon a time as many as seven synagogues were housed on this street, but Pardesi is the only one standing today. Over a period of time many Jews moved to Israel, and many others converted to Christianity. During the times when Kochi was a thriving port on the ‘Spice Route’, Jew Town was a thriving locality.
64. Pushkar by Cycle, Pushkar.
Another amazing way to explore Pushkar is to go for a cycle tour. It is as simple as it sounds: hire a bicycle and explore the town at your own pace. Instead of undertaking the task of cycling alone, tourists should move about in a group. For safety reasons a tour should ideally have a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 8 tourists. That way you are enough people to look out for each other and not too many that you lose track. Led by a local guide, these tours take you around the important temples and landmarks of the city. Cycle tours are not restricted to within Pushkar, but are also organized to other nearby towns.
65. Raj Ratan Bihari and Rasik Shiromani Temple, Bikaner.
Upon his queen's - an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna - request, in 1851 CE, Maharaja Ratan Singhji commissioned the construction of the Raj Ratan Bihari and Rasik Shiromani temples. Built out of white marble, red stone of Dulmera and lime mortar, it is one of the eight sites of Acharya Ballabhacharya's Pushtimargi seats in Rajasthan, and the only temple in Bikaner where the Ballabha sect's tenets on worship is strictly followed.
66. Raksham, Sangla Valley.
A chocolate-box hamlet, Raksham is set before a mass of dark rock and moraine and is at an altitude of 3,115 meters above sea level. The place-name, ‘Raksham’ is supposedly a derivative from ‘rak’, a rock and ‘sham’, bridge - local lore has it that the Baspa’s waters corroded a stone dam leaving a span over the top - and thereby created a natural bridge at the spot. The village has some charming wood and stone houses and rests at the end of what can best be described as glen with thick forests.
67. Rampur, Sarahan.
By the banks of the river Satluj, Rampur was the seat of the former princely state of Bushair ( Bushahr, Bushehar ). This is forty-five kilometers from Sarahan. Apart from serving as the gateway to Kinnaur, today’s Rampur is famous for its grand traditions and the Lavi fair held every November and as the site of the huge hydro project, the Nathpa-Jakhri.
Legend has that when the town of Rampur was to be settled, three lamps were lit at different spots along the valley floor and it was at the place where the lamp remained burning through the night, that the town finally was finally built. The town may have been founded by Raja Kehri Singh in the seventeenth century or by Raja Ram Singh in the eighteenth. The rulers moved down from their traditional seat in Sarahan to the banks of the river. Bushair was one of the richest princely states in the hills and was an important centre for trade between Tibet, Kinnaur and the lower areas.
68. Sangla village, Sangla Valley.
The village has the main market of the valley where essentials are available. Apart from its size and the fact that some of the hotels and rest houses are based there, Sangla village on its own belies the true beauty of the area. Surrounded by houses, and placed in the center of the village is the old temple of Bering Nag. The temple is an attractive wood and stone structure that houses the principal image of the deity.
69. Shiv Bari Temple, Bikaner.
Built in 1880 by Maharaja Doongar Singh in memory of his father, the splendid Shiv Bari temple, made of red sandstone is surrounded by a stonewall. Known for its pavilions, domes and columns, it houses an idol of Lord Shiva made out of black marble, which is visited by devotees round the year, with the number of worshippers reaching a peak during the month of Shravan (February).
70. Sumur village & Samstemling Gompa, Nubra Valley.
At an elevation of 3096 meters (10,157 feet) and 28 kilometers (17 miles) from Panamik, Sumur village rests along the Nubra River and is an amazingly picturesque settlement with vast expanses of green fields reaching up till the valley parapets. Other than Diskit, Sumur is the only other village in Nubra Valley that organizes a grand festival every year with camel races, ibex and peacock dances, traditional archery competitions, traditional marriage ceremonies, war dances and even flower exhibitions. However, the biggest attraction of Sumur village is undoubtedly the Samstemling Gompa or Samstemling Monastery. As an entire complex comprising seven different temples, it is a fabulous storehouse of a huge collection of thangkas and arduously restored frescoes, which can be found, distributed neatly across the several prayer halls here.
71. The Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace), Kochi.
Mattancherry Palace enjoys a rather unique position in the architectural and cultural landscape of Kochi. One of the oldest Portuguese constructions, its Indian influence is unmistakable. The palace was built around 1545 CE for the Raja of Kochi, Veera Kerala Varma, by the Portuguese. A temple had been plundered in the vicinity, and this was done as a corrective measure by the Portuguese to appease the king. It was later renovated in 1663 by the Dutch, once they took over from the Portuguese. The palace with a Bhagavathi (patron deity of the royal family) temple in the central courtyard is reminiscent of a local mansion with four separate wings opening out to the central courtyard. The Palace houses two temples dedicated to Lord Krishna and Lord Shiva respectively.
72. Walk through Pushkar Bazaar, Pushkar.
Till a few years ago, the bazaar at Pushkar was just a cluster of shops selling items for puja. But now the main bazaar at Sarafa, Sadar Road, Baza Road and Kedalganj Road are lined with an assortment of absorbing little shops that are stuffed with souvenirs. Shops selling prayer beads jostle for space with others that stock backpacker goodies. The 'last-price' quotes are safely negotiable. Walking down these narrow lanes can be a physical and sensory obstacle course which demands constant alertness.
73. The Mall, Darjeeling.
The Mall is Darjeeling's popular commercial street with book shops, Tibetans selling hand-knitted sweaters, souvenir shops, eateries and tea/coffee stalls accompanied with hot steaming momos. The Mall leads to Chaurasta, a square, which also is pony riding territory for children.
74. Kibber, Kaza.
Past the base of the Ki monastery the road climbs up to Kibber, which at 4,205 meters above sea level was, till recently, the highest permanently inhabited village in the area accessible by road; this position has been taken by the village of Komic that is somewhat higher. The road distance between Kibber and Kaza is sixteen kilometers. The village is a small one and has less than a hundred houses. This lies on top of a bare outcrop of limestone with terraced fields on the sides. There is one main street and narrow paths access the other houses as well as the couple of small basic home-stay places and hotels.
75. Komic, Kaza.
One of the highest villages in world and the highest permanently inhabited one in the region now to be connected by a vehicular road, the tiny hamlet of Komic is situated at an altitude of 4,275 meters above sea level. Temperatures in summer touch the high twenties (Celsius) and plummet to the minus twenties (Celsius) in winter. With a dozen or so families and little over a hundred residents, this village comes in the periphery of the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary. The Sanctuary has animals like the ibex, blue sheep, red fox, Tibetan woolly hare, Tibetan wolf, lynx, the pika and the Tibetan wild ass; this sanctuary is also home to the rare and elusive snow leopard. Despite the altitude and the adverse climate, the villagers grow peas, some vegetables and barley in their fields and rear livestock.
Komic has a double storied Buddhist monastery dedicated to Gyawa Jampa or Matreya Buddha, the Buddha of the Future.
76. Korzok Gompa, Tso Moriri.
The nearest airport from Tso Moriri is about 220 kilometers (136.70 miles) away at Leh and goes by the name of Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport.
77. Lahaul & Spiti Tribal Museum, Keylong.
To help preserve the distinct cultural and religious identity of the area, Himachal’s Department of Art and Culture established a community museum of tribal and folk art in Keylong in 2008. The museum has archaeological and anthropological artifacts. Other exhibits include utensils made of stone – which are still used in some homes; farm implements and traditional apparel. Handmade carpets are also on display. Other items include the collection of rare manuscripts in the Bhoti and Tankri scripts. Rare thangka paintings are there too.
78. Langza, Kaza.
Langja is at an altitude of 4,400 meters above sea level and, in a manner of speaking, this provides a window to the evolution of the entire Himalayan chain. Millions of years ago the Earth's land mass consisted of two giant continents. There was Gondwanaland in the south and Laurasia in the north. A huge chunk of land severed itself from upper Gondwanaland and swept right across the mighty Sea of Tethys that separated them. Again, after millions of years, this giant engine crashed into the Asian continent. The force of the impact created the Himalaya mountains and the land that had pushed it ahead, is now India. Scattered all around Langja are ammonite fossils – that date back to the time when all this land was under the sea.
79. Lha-lun (Lalung), Tabo.
Lha-lun or Lalung lies in Spiti’s marginally explored Lingti Valley and is at an altitude of 3,658 meters above sea level. This is fourteen kilometers from the main road and is the largest village in the valley carved by the Lingti stream. The place name, Lha-lun is a derivative of two words and means 'land or area of the gods'; this is from ‘Lha’ = deities or gods and ‘Lung’ or ‘Lun’, land or area. The mountain of Tangmar that towers over the village is said to be the residence of the primary deity and that the mountain changes color with the moods of the deity – it has a reddish hue when he is angry and a yellowish one when he is pleased. The picturesque village has around fifty houses.
80. Town Bazaar or Malcolm Peth, Mahabaleshwar.
For shopaholics, the main point of interest in the hill station would be the town bazaar or Malcolm Peth. Mahabaleshwar is famous for its produce of strawberries and mulberries. Here you can shop for fresh fruits or interesting fruit products like crushes (with big juicy chunks of fruits) and jams. Other hot selling items at the bazaar are pure mountain honey and chikki (a traditional Indian sweet made with jaggery and assortment of nuts like peanuts, cashews, almonds, pistachios, etc.). A lot of customers also shop handcrafted leather footwear and tribal trinkets.