India and the Common Wealth Games

According to a survey by World Travel and tourism Council (WTCC), India will be a tourism hotspot between now and 2018 followed by China, Libya and Vietnam. After Olympics, Common Wealth Games are the biggest global sports event. India is anticipated to use this event as a major tool to boost up and travelers' inflow into India. Participants from 85 countries will be visiting India during the month of October. As per official estimates, two million foreign tourists and 1.5 million domestic tourists are expected to arrive in Delhi in 2010.



During this grand event, several shopping events will be launched to attract more tourists who can help in building a better brand India. Records say that other cities that have hosted such major global events have seen a big boost in their travel industry and tourism. India expects the same results.


CWG is directly linked with the development of the travel industry in India as well as the allied industries like hospitality, education, marketing and advertising. Crores of rupees are being spent for the preparation of these industries for the games.

The beautification process of Delhi has already been taken to its peak, transportation developments are being made rapidly and the historical monuments are being restored. These all preparations show that how important CWG will be for India's travel industry.

States, such as Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh and Kerala have already developed special commonwealth tourist packages for the expected foreigner tourists. The current growth of hospitality industry is 12% which is expected to grow up to 20% during the CWG in Delhi in 2010, as estimated by ASSOCHAM (Associate chambers of Commerce and Industry of India). Not only travel industry but also Medical tourism industry is expected to rise during this gala affair.

Foreign visitors can take professional help in preparing their incredible India tours which will help them in arranging an enjoyable tour throughout the India. Travel agencies in India have been working on specialized India tour packages that provide quick arrival at destinations such as Taj Mahal at Agra, Khajuraho Temples in Maharashtra, golden temple in Amritsar, Ranthambore and Jim Corbett National Parks, tiger reserves, and idyllic hill stations like Shimla, Ooty, Manali, Himachal Pradesh, Nainital and Jammu and Kashmir.

India also plans to promote the lesser known vacation destinations of India, such as the Andaman islands, Leh, Ladakh and some of the eastern wildered states. India is already an attractive tourist destination among the foreigners owing to its rich heritage, scenic beauties and incredible flora and fauna, so during the span of such a big event, the visitors are bound to increase with greater expectations out of their tours. Some of the interest areas that are expected a boost is eco-tourism and total wellness packages (which include ancient exercises, relaxation, toning, breathing and strengthening routines).


Other expected favorite tours include Golden triangle tours, Rajasthan Tours, North India tours and Taj-fame Agra.

The situation gives an idea of a mutually beneficial term of trade where the Indian tourism industry is being benefited by the forthcoming games. But, the preparations and the requirements have to be met with by the tourism industry before hand to meet the upcoming challenges. The government is trying to create an image of clean, green, safe and friendly India that is easily accessible by world-class transport systems.

India : Escort Services

Escort services are used by people who need the company of a beautiful and attractive woman or girl for simple pleasures or if they are alone while travelling. In today’s fast paced life, it is very difficult to build a long lasting relationship because everybody has become independent and the tolerance level in people have also decreased. The divorces have increased because the people are not happy with their marriage. So, the demand of escort services has increased because if you go for escort services, you can meet different beautiful and smart girls suiting to your likings and disliking. You can use escort services in India for enjoying company with some of the beautiful and elegant Indian escorts while you are travelling to India. A companion can take away all the boredom while you are travelling because you are not alone, a beautiful Indian escort is with you to enjoy pleasures.

Benefits of Escorts Agency in India
 The escort services provided by India by Night, an honest escort agency in India are ultimate in fulfilling the desires of the clients. Whether it is physical desire or psychological desire, our Indian escorts can give complete date like experience to you. We offer discreet services for people looking for beautiful and educated escorts. An honest escort agency in India where you get what you see because it employs only beautiful and educated escorts with cost effective services. Here we work with an aim to achieve the client’s satisfaction. Our Independent escorts have been considered as the best while traveling to India, for social events, parties etc. The most benefit of hiring escorts from our Indian escort agency is that you can get escort in any part of India. It provides escorts in Mumbai, escorts in Delhi, escorts in Pune, escorts in Chennai, escorts in Bangalore, escorts in Hyderabad, escorts in Ahmedabad, escorts in Kolkata. You can enjoy Indian travel escorts through escorts agency's in India. It also appoints evening escort for you if you are planning to have a romantic evening fulfilling all your desires. It provides escort services to people looking for budget models escorts, upcoming models escorts, premium models escorts, VIP models escorts, TV ad models escorts, TV actresses escorts, item girls escorts and air hostesses escorts. It can appoint a suitable female escort in India suiting to your requirements. Even if you are travelling internationally, It has professional ladies who can be your companion while travelling and are very comfortable in corporate atmosphere. So, you can take them while you are travelling abroad for business purpose. If you are planning to go on a vacation in India or abroad and in need of an Indian escort to be your companion and travel with you, It can appoint beautiful and attractive model escort to make your vacation memorable.

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Cool Gateways in India

As the plains of India continuously simmer under the intense heat wave, people are looking towards hills to get a respite from scorching summer. There is no dearth of hill stations in India but, the challenge is to find cool getaways which are beautiful, cool and most importantly not crowded!!!

Here are 5 summer coolers to beat both the heat and crowd:

Narkanda (Himachal Pradesh) Most travellers hardly look beyond Shimla and Manali when it comes to going to a hill station in Himachal Pradesh. A look beyond the obvious and Narkanda pops out - a beautiful hill station that offers spectacular views of snow laden peaks. Narkanda is located at an altitude of 2708 meters and is an ideal destination to seek seclusion in the mountains. Narkanda is located on Hindustan Tibet Road (NH-22) and is just 65 km from Shimla.

Gulmarg (Jammu & Kashmir) The moment you think Gulmarg, soft silky meadows surrounded by high rise mountains come to eyes. It is a traditional summer cooler that is sure to make your holiday exciting. It is scenic and offers a host of adventure options for a traveller. One can opt for horse riding, hiking, a game of golf and cable car ride to Khilanmarg. If you are visiting Gulmarg in winters, you may get an opportunity to ski from Dec to March. Gulmarg is 50 km from Srinagar. It has good number of hotels and resorts, which provide travellers comfortable accommodation.

Binsar (Uttarakhand) It is still untouched by mass tourism and that's what makes Binsar a cool getaway that you can visit to relax and rejuvenate. Binsar is located at an altitude of 2,240 meters and offers unparalleled views of the high mountain ranges of Chaukhamba, Nanda Devi, Trishul and Panchchuli. Besides being a cool scenic destination, Binsar is a historical town as well. It once served as the capital of the region during the reign of Chand Rajas in the 7th and 8th centuries. Binsar is 95 km from Nainital and 33 km north of Almora. Binsar has limited accommodation. Club Mahindra Binsar and KMVN Bungalow are the two popular stay options available in Binsar.

Munnar (Kerala) As the plains of India reel under the heat in May-June, Munnar is among a few destinations that witness the onset of rains. One may see the blue hills engulf under white mist, presenting a picture postcard look. Munnar is a wonderful destination to soak in the beauty of verdant hills and sweeping views of tea plantations. Munnar is located at an altitude of 1600 meters above sea level. It is 130 from Kochi and is close to Tamil Nadu border.

Lansdowne (Uttarakhand) If you are looking for a quick getaway, which is cool, quite, beautiful and not too far from Delhi; Lansdowne is the place that you should visit. It is a hill station unlike others. It is easily accessible yet not crowded. The highlight of Lansdowne is that it is surrounded by thick oak and blue pine forests. There are not many things to see and do in Lansdowne. It is a complete destination to take long walks or simply do nothing, just relax and connect back to your inner self. Lansdowne is located at a comfortable distance of 300 km from Delhi. Kotdawara, 45 km from Lansdowne is the nearest railway station.

Four Tour Option

India is a vast country and globally famous tourism destination in South India. Entire landscape of this country is fascinating and worth enjoyable. The country can be visited in all seasons. But the winter is the best season to visit this country. It presents mind-boggling diversity with unique cultural and geographical features. East to West and North to South, the vast land of India is full of exotic tourist destinations and attractions. The Taj Mahal (one of the Seven Wonders of the World) is situated in Agra in North India. World famous Kaziranga National Park (Assam), Mahabodhi Temple (Bodhgaya, Bihar) and Nalanda (Bihar) are located in East India. World famous Ajanta & Ellora Caves are in Western India. Backwaters of Kerala are in Southern India.
Have a look fabulous four tour option to experience unforgettable journey into India.

Kaziranga Tour -

One of the most sought after tour options in eastern India is Kaziranga tour. Kaziranga is one of the finest national parks in India known big population of one-horned rhinos and wild buffalos. Titers, leopards, elephants, deer, etc are other attraction of the park. Elephant safari in the forest is a unique & cheery experience.

North India tour -

North India is an integral part of India travel and tourism. Delhi (the capital city of India), Agra (the city of Taj Mahal), Kashmir (the Paradise on the Earth), Shimla, Manali, Jaipur (the Pink City of India), Jaisalmer (the Golden City of India), Ladakh, etc are prime tourist places in northern India. Ladakh tours can be one of the most exotic experiences of northern India travel. Ladakh is the only land in India and in the world where one can experience blazing sunstroke and freezing cold at the same time. Buddhist monasteries and adventure sport activities are attractions of Ladakh travel and tours.

Goa Tour -

Goa is the smallest but beautiful state of India situated in the western part of country. It is the key attractions of western India tour. It is known for beautiful beaches, delicate churches & convents, historical buildings and exotic wildlife. A large gathering of tourists and vacationers embark on Goa tours to enjoy beach tourism and vacations in India. Dona Pula, Palolem, Baga, Calangute, Colva, Bogmalo, Aguada, Anjuna, etc are main beaches in Goa, India.

South India Tour -

Kerala is one of the most sought after and fabulous tourist destinations in south India. Tourists from all over the world embark on south India tours every year to experience the best of India tour and tourism. Historical sights, natural sites, hill stations, temples, monuments, beaches, backwaters, etc are highlights of tourism in southern India. Kerala tours attract tourists and vacationers from different parts of the world with its beautiful beaches, forested hill stations, scenic & serene lakes & backwaters, lush spice plantations, exotic wildlife and many historical sites.

India's Variety in Tourist Spots

India ranks among the top countries in the famous tourists destinations. The incredible country offers a large variety of tourist's spots from beaches in Goa to deserts in Rajasthan and Gujarat.

 Every year, thousands of tourists visit India and experience the lifetime journey to some of the world known places. The capital city of India, Delhi is the favorite tourist spot for its rich history and culture. The major tourist attractions in Delhi include the very famous Red Fort and the Humayun Tomb which are the relics of the Mughal architecture.

The Red fort was built by Shah Jahan and it has great historic importance. Apart from Red Fort, there is also an Old Fort which attracts tourist. The other famous places in Delhi include the temples like the lotus shaped Bahai temple, the Birla Mandir and many more.

The city is famous for a perfect blend among the old and the modern culture. One hand, there are old forts and temples, whereas on the other hand, there are malls and world class buildings. Delhi offers a comfortable way for the tourists to travel across it. The taxis and the Delhi metro provide a comfortable means of transportation. Some other tourist's spots in Delhi include the India Gate which is a war memorial and pays tribute to the thousands of the soldiers who had lost their life in protecting the country from enemies. Opposite to the India Gate is the Parliament house which is a symbol of the world's largest democracy. Delhi offers a very good opportunity to the tourists to shop till drop. The flea markets to the biggest shopping zone, Connaught place are favorites of the tourists who like to do shopping.

Apart from the capital city, there are hundreds of cities where you can find the breathtaking beauty of the nature. The Nainital India is one such district which is situated nearby Delhi. Nainital is also famous by the name of the lake district of Uttarakhand. It lies in the Himalayan range. There are large numbers of lakes but the most famous is the Naini Lake Nainital. The Naini Lake offers the opportunity of boating and also offers a splendid view of the city during the evening when the whole area is glittering with beautiful lights. There are two ends of the lake known as Mallital and Tallital. The Tallital has a bridge. There is also a cave garden near the Mallital. The Hanumangarhi is very close to the bus stand and is a religious place in Nainital. It is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman.

The aerial ropeway is a major attraction for Nainital tourists. The ropeway helps in connecting the snow vie point with the local flats in Nainital. This ropeway carry passengers form the Mallital end of the lake. The horses can be hired form various places in Nainital and they help the tourists to get to the local places easily.

The snow view point lies at a short distance from the city and offers a great scene of natural beauty.

Why Travel India ?

India is a charmingly charming country that enjoys a prosperous and magnificent history that dates back to about 5000 years. The civilization of this amazing country holds miscellaneous culture, faith, dialect, beliefs, and principles that go with to give birth to an amalgamated country despite its diversity. Indeed it is Union in Diversity.

The landmark of every period, the magnificent heritage, imaginative architecture, and most important the original way of life of the nation makes India exclusive in all its way. The mountain resorts, the picturesque nature beauty, beautiful beaches, graceful rivers, peaceful backwaters, vast Thar Desert, rich flora & fauna, amazing architecture, historical places & monuments, and religious temples & shrines are all enchanting in their own way. All these attractions of this charming country add to the eternal beauty of India that is still unscathed by the incursion of modernity.

So plan Tours to India and travel across the length and breadth of this beautiful country and rejoice outstanding tourism discovering some of the most charming and destinations. Places like Kashmir, Shimla, Manali, Darjeeling, Kodaikanal, Mount Abu, Nainital, Ranikhet, Mussoorie, Almora, Ooty, Munnar, etc are popular hill stations in India. These hill towns are gifted with extraordinary nature beauty and provide them great opportunity to rejoice hill station or nature tourism. Due to exceptional nature beauty Kashmir region is also referred as the Paradise on the Earth or the Switzerland of Asia.

Moreover, there are a number of historical places and monument this country. Monuments of India are known for their intricate & fine architecture. Each of the monuments has its own distinct history, past, as well as importance. Amid the big list of magnificent monuments, the Taj Mahal in Agra is unquestionably the leading wonder that tells a beautiful legacy. Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Apart from this love monument the grand Red Fort Qutab Minar, Lotus Temple in New Delhi; Ajanta & Ellora Caves in Aurangabad; Gateway of India & Elephanta Caves in Mumbai; Konark Sun Temple in Orissa; Khajuraho Temple Complex in Madha Pradesh; Mahabalipuram Group of Monuments in Tamil Nadu; etc are all speaking stones in country depicting rich, authentic and artistic cultural heritage of India. When you will travel to India you will certainly love to explore these beautiful monuments.

 States like Goa and Kerala are known for beach tourism attracting tourists and vacationers from all over the world. Moreover, Himalayan region of India provides tourists exciting opportunity for India adventure tours and travels. Golden Triangle Tour provides tourists a brilliant opportunity to explore three historic and historical cities of northern India - Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Places like Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Varanasi, Kashmir, etc are featured attractions of north India tour packages.



Well, if you too want to rejoice the charm of outstanding tourism in this beautiful country, choose a right India Tour Package that suits your needs and budget and get ready to treasure experience of lifetime.

The Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal, the monument of immeasurable beauty is one of the modern Seven Wonders of the World. It is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and considered the finest example of Mughal architecture.

 The Mughal emperor Shah Jahan got this monument constructed in the memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The thoughts that come into the mind while watching the Taj Mahal of Agra is not just its phenomenal beauty, but the immense love which was the reason behind its construction. Standing majestically on the banks of River Yamuna, the Taj Mahal is synonymous with love and romance. The entire complex, with gardens, gateway structures, and mosque, was completed in 1653, which took almost 22 years to complete.

History of Taj Mahal :

The Taj Mahal was built by the fifth Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.she died while giving birth to their 14th child. It is believed that during her last moments, Mumtaz Mahal obtained a promise from Shah Jahan that he will build world's most beautiful monument in her memory. Taj Mahal symbolizes eternal love of a man for his wife. The body of the queen was buried temporarily in the Zainabadi Garden in Burhanpur and moved to Agra after six months.

The land on which the Taj Mahal was built was acquired from Raja Jai Singh. The construction began in 1631 AD and completed in 22 years. 20,000 labors and artisans were employed for the work. The material for the mausoleum was brought from all over India and central Asia. Taj Mahal was designed by the Iranian architect Ustad Isa.

Soon after the Taj Mahal's completion, Shah Jahan was deposed by his son Aurangzeb and put under house arrest at nearby Agra Fort. Upon Shah Jahan's death, Aurangzeb buried him in the mausoluem next to his wife.

Architecture of Taj Mahal Taj Mahal architecture is a kind of fusion of Persian, Central Asian and Islamic architecture. The Taj Mahal is situated 900 ft away from the entrance gate. The tomb is built over a marble plinth, which rests over a high sandstone base. And there are four tapering minarets on the four corners of the marble plinth flank the tomb. The minarets height is of 138 ft and is crowned by with eight windowed cupolas over the marble plinth.

The main building is built of marble and is square in plan with chamfered corners. Each side of the corner has an iwan adorned with calligraphy. There are small rectangular double arches one over the other on both sides of the iwan. The arched alcoves of equal sizes are semi-octagonal. The pilasters demark each section of the façade on both side, which rises from plinth of the tomb up to the frieze and are topped by beautiful pinnacles with lotus buds and finials. A shadowy burial crypt inside the Taj Mahal houses the tombs of Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Above these tombs is the main chamber that has the false tombs, typical of mausoleums of the Mughals. Perforated marble screens were used to transmit light into the central chamber.

India : A Monument Hub

India is famous around the world for its historical importance and rich culture. There are many tourist destinations in India that are known for its historical value. There are a large number of monuments in India that represents the old culture of India and many of these monuments are recognized as world heritage.

Monuments were made by emperors in ancient times to commemorate their loved ones or any event of utmost importance. Many monuments made in that era are so beautiful that you will amaze to look at their beauty. Most of these monuments in India are an example of intelligent architecture that is almost impossible to replicate in today's world.

Some of the famous monuments in India are:

Taj Mahal :

Taj Mahal in Agra is the most beautiful monument not only of India but of entire world. That's way it is listed in 7 wonders of world. Made by emperor Shahjahan, this palace is visited by thousands of visitors per month.

Red Fort:



Red Fort in Delhi is another famous world heritage site and a famous monument of India. Independence Day and Republic Day celebrations take place here, thus making it an important place in India.

 Qutub Minar:

Qutub Minar is another key monument of India located in Delhi. It was built by Qutbuddin Aybak in year 1193. This is the tallest monument of India and is a popular tourist destination for visitors.




Char Minar:

Char Minar is a beautiful monument in Hyderabad, the capital of Andhra Pradesh. This is a square shaped structure with 4 minarets. There is a market near this monument where you can enjoy shopping.

Sanchi Stups:

Sanchi Stups are in Bhopal and are known as the meditation centers for Buddhists. These Stups are made in somewhat oval shape are built by Emperor Ashoka in third century.

These are some of the famous monuments which are also famous as tourist attractions in India. So if you are visiting to India make sure to plan a trip to these places.

India : At its Best in Education

Education is a bare necessity in present times and as with any other phase of our lives, studying has its own significance. First it starts with the primary education and after a certain time period it enters the secondary education; after which higher education peeks in.

Whenever parents think of higher education for their adolescents, the top universities in India are often primarily considered. India is considered the ultimate knowledge destination for students opting for higher studies. Most of the colleges featuring in the Indian universities list not only show off marvelous infrastructure but also high quality teaching through experienced and expert faculties. The official language in virtually every Indian College is English which removes hindrances for foreign students who have null knowhow of local languages such as Hindi. India with rich cultural diversity and a stout educational system proffers immense opportunities for students. Majority of the top Universities in India are found in the metropolitan cities and the tier 1 cities of India like Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Bangalore, Vellore, Hyderabad, Pune and Allahabad among several others.

Among the major universities, the University of Mumbai is renowned for its high class infrastructure and immense facilities it proffers its students. The University of Mumbai which was earlier known as University of Bombay is one of the oldest and best Universities in India.
It has been granted with a Five Star Status by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council. It has set benchmarks and high standards in imparting quality education.

Yet another university which is worth mentioning is the Anna University. It has over thirty years of experience in the arena of imparting superior education. It proffers higher education in Engineering, Technology and allied Sciences pertinent to the existing and probable requirements of the society. This university is an affiliated member of UICEE (UNESCO International Center for Engineering Education). UGC also has accredited this university with a five star status. The University campus, including the classrooms, hostels and playgrounds occupies an area of about thousand acres. With proven capabilities both in academic and research areas, Anna University was able to receive honor for a period of five years for excellence in Technical Education. Annamalai University is a unitary, teaching and residential university. During the last eighty years the University has grown swiftly and consolidated its position as a unitary and residential University with Forty nine Departments of Study and over 2500 members on its teaching staff. Annamalainagar is already a busy and full-fledged University town east of Chidambaram, the abode of Lord Nataraja, thanks to the popularity of this University.

Almost every state in India has numerous colleges which fulfill the criterion of being a top university. The colleges which feature in the Indian universities ranking also proffer benefits and advantages which can be compared with international standards. This incredible country is proud of its robust educational system and the scope it provides to its citizens as well as foreign citizens to educate themselves to the next higher level. These top universities in India are accountable for the gush of intellectuals passing out from top notch colleges every year. They are responsible for the non scarcity of able, proficient work force which meets the ever increasing needs and requirements of our corporate sector. These colleges in India make every attempt possible to take the best out of an individual. They hone their skills and character to match the corporate criteria and make them industry ready. The inexpensiveness of accommodation facilities and the mingling nature of Indian populace make it a favorable destination for students.

Almost every university in India has some pre determined conditions which needs to be filled to get an admission into these universities. Passing their qualifying exams with flying colors will start things off. There are various phases of cut-offs and personal interviews before a student get admitted into a prestigious university. The most important thing is to start keeping the end in mind. Decide what you want to be when you grow up and start your work accordingly...

Introduction!

So here i start up with my blog!

First of all, for the geographically challenged of you out there, India is located in South Asia. It has 7000 kilometers of coastline on the Indian Ocean, the third largest body of water in the world. Three islands are near India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and the Maldives. India also shares borders with China, Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Myanmar. It should also be mentioned that there is also a disputed border with Afghanistan, but that's another topic for another blog.

Much like the United States, India has 28 states, that each have their own elected governments. There are some differences though, India has the National Territory of Dehli and 6 Union Territories. China currently has a larger population than India, however by 2030, India is expected to surpass Chain and become the most populated country in the world.

There are many beautiful rivers in India. The Ganges River, (Ganga or Holy Ganga, in India) is the largest and most well known of them, and is located in Northern India. The Ganga Basin has a huge population. The land is extremely fertile and it is said that one out of every 12 people in the world live there. You can also see Irrawaddy Dolphin in the river, as well as another species called the ganga River Dolphin. Another interesting note is that there is a rare freshwater shark found in the river that has not much is known about. Other major rivers in India include the Krishna, the Brahmaputra, the Kaveri, the Yamuna, and the Godavari.

The mountain range that you will find covering the northern states is called the Himalayas. Central and the rest of the northern and eastern parts of India consist of very fertile flatlands called the Indo-Gangetic Plain. Southern India is a peninsula and made up mostly from the Deccan Plateau with two hilly regions called the Western and Eastern Ghats. Last, but not least, near India's border with Pakistan lies the Thar Desert.

There are also three archipelagos in India. In West Bengal you find the Sunderbans, Lakshadweep on the southwest coast, and a chain of volcanic islands in the southeast called the Nicobar and Andaman Islands.

India has been a country for many centuries and it's rich culture and heritage has been preserved for the most part. While traveling in India, you will be exposed to some of the most wonderful cultural monuments in the world. India's culture is partly created from invaders and immigrants who have arrived here over the years. The Taj Mahal and other examples of Islamic Architecture are left over from the Mughal Dynasty that ruled between 1526 and 1857.

India is made up of a large variety of people. There are a large number of different languages, cultures and religions. Education in India has been improving dramatically in recent years and is a source of great pride for the families of young people who attend the universities there. Traditions that have survived for centuries are held sacred by families here and should be respected when traveling there.

There are many religious ceremonies and festivals held in public in India that you shouldn't miss during your trip. Harvest festivals for many of the different religions of India are attended by everyone, even those of differing faiths. During the Buddhist New Year (the first full moon in May), the Tibetan Buddhist Community in Sikkum performs the mystic Gumpa Dance and is a must see if you plan to travel to India during that time. In the Autumn months, two of the most prominent harvest festivals are the Ganesh Chaturthi and the Maharastra are fantastic experiences to add to your itinerary if you would like to experience religious ceremonies, which are a major part of Indian culture.

Another large part of Indian culture is their music. There are many types of music to be found during your travels to India. Some of the most interesting music is the folk music you will find as you travel through different parts of India. There are also interpretive dances that are performed by the people there. They tell epic stories based on Indian legends and are very spiritual and devotional. There is a lot of popular music as well, including Filmi Music and two well known forms of classical music you might hear are Hindustani and Carnatic Music.

Despite popular opinion, there are both vegetarian and non-vegetarian delights to be had in India. Bhel puri, a puffed rice dish, usually with spices added and served on deep fried puris, a wheat bread, is a popular snack often sold on the roadside. The staple foods of India are ones made from rice or wheat, but a wide variety of cuisine is available to you as you travel through different regions. Different types of spices and sweets are available and used in the dishes they prepare in each area. Sweets and spicy food is very popular in all of India.

While shopping for antiques, clothing, fabrics, and other items, in alleyways and open markets alike, one piece of advice, try to take a local citizen or guide with you to make sure you are buying authentic pieces. You will find the hand-carved wood artifacts and sandalwood carvings amazing. The woodcarvers are very talented. India is of course also famous for its hand-rolled incense. You will want to bring some back with you. The fragrances are unique and the incense is of great quality if you find the right shops.

There is also a lot of silk and pure cotton clothing, but a few knockoffs as well, hence the warning to have someone from the local area guide you to the best shops and markets. Leather goods can be had in India for a fraction of the cost here, so if you like leather, go shopping!

A quick look at some of the sights you may want to visit while traveling to India before I finish this blog. India is a beautiful country and its doubtful you can take in all the wonderful sights on just one trip.

The Pandavas Caves Temple in Goa is dedicated to the Lord Shiva and dates back to the 1st century.

The Rajabai Tower in Bombay is a clock tower of gothic designs that is 260 feet high. One of the curiosities of this gothic tower is that it is adorned with oriental figures. It chimes on every quarter hour and sounds like Big Ben in London. The university library, located under the tower, contains recently restored stain glass windows that are magnificent to look at and considered to be the most beautiful in all of Asia.

New Delhi is a beautiful city whose buildings have serene courtyards and are definitely one of the nicest attractions along with some of the finest museums in the country. New Dehli also sport many shops and boutiques that feature some of the best crafts India has to offer. New Dehli is definitly a place to go during your travels to India.

The Karnataka Folk Museum in Bangalore has displays of rare masks, artifacts, and costumes that are part of India's rich history, as well as a collection of the folk music and videos of folk dances mentioned earlier in this blog.

The Taj Mahal in Agra is of course one of the must see sights in India. It took 20,000 laborers to build the Taj Mahal in the 1600s and has become a known landmark throughout the world. From the jail, to the dome, to the garden, the beauty of this building of both Hindu and Islamic design cannot be justified with words alone.


I hope I have added some useful information and ideas about India!