JOURNEY TO INDIA
 
India or Hindustan, was named by the Greeks after the Indus valley. India - a republic in the Asian subcontinent in southern Asia; second most populous country in the world; achieved independence from the United Kingdom in 1947. India is one of the oldest civilizations in the world with a kaleidoscopic variety and rich cultural heritage. It has achieved multifaceted socio-economic progress during the last 59 years of its Independence. India has become self-sufficient in agricultural production and is now the tenth industrialized country in the world and the sixth nation to have gone into outer space to conquer nature for the benefit of the people. This strong affinity with religion and mythology has been reflected time and again through various art forms and performing arts, which are symbolical of the composite culture of India.
 
Indian culture is rich and diverse and as a result unique in its very own way. Our manners, way of communicating with one another, etc are one of the important components of our culture. Even though we have accepted modern means of living, improved our lifestyle, our values and beliefs still remain unchanged. A person can change his way of clothing, way of eating and living but the rich values in a person always remains unchanged because they are deeply rooted within our hearts, mind, body and soul which we receive from our culture.
 
Geographical details of India are tabulated as under
 
Continent
Asia
Region
Southern Asia, Indian subcontinent
Coordinates
20°00'N 77°00'E
Area
3,287,263 km² (1,269,219.3 sq mi), Ranked 7th, 90.44% land & 9.56 % water
Climate
Four seasons Winter , Spring,  Summer  & Monsoon
Winter months (November-March) are bright and pleasant, with snowfall in the northern hills. Summer time (April-June) is hot in most parts of India, and it is then that the numerous hill resorts provide cool retreat. During the monsoon, rainfall is heavy along the West Coast between June and September, and along the East Coast between mid-October and December.
Highest / Lowest
temperatures observed
The highest temperature recorded in India was 50.6 °C (123.08 °F) in Alwar in 1955. The lowest was −45 °C (−49 °F) in Kashmir.
Total population
1.13 billion (as per Mar 2008 records)
Total population
K2[2] 8,611 m (28,251 ft)
Lowest point
Kuttanad: -2.2 m (-7.2 ft)
Longest river
Ganges–Brahmaputra
Largest lake
Chilka Lake
Largest lake
India is divided into 28 states (which are further subdivided into districts)
Union Territories
7 union territories
Extremities
  • Northernmost Point — Dafdar in the Taghdumbash Pamir near Beyik Pass in Kanjut in Jammu and Kashmir ¹
  • Southernmost Point — Indira Point, Great Nicobar, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
  • Westernmost Point — West of Ghuar Mota, Gujarat
  • Easternmost Point — Kibithu, Arunachal Pradesh
Physiographic regions

 India is divided into following seven  Physiographic Regions .

  • The northern mountains including the Himalayas, which include the Kuen Lun and the Karakoram ranges and the northeast mountain ranges.
  • Indo-Gangetic plains
  • Thar Desert
  • Central Highlands and Deccan Plateau
  • East Coast
  • West Coast
  • Bordering seas and islands
Mountains
  • Aravalli Range
  • Eastern Ghats
  • Himalayas
  • Patkai
  • Vindhya Range
  • Western Ghats (Sahyadri)
  • Satpura Range
  • Karakoram
  • Kunlun
  • The Himalaya mountain range is the world's highest mountain range.
 
 
For further details log on to URL: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geography_of_India
 
INDIAN TOURISM:
 
India has attracted huge numbers of tourists due to scenic beauty and highly developed tourist spots. No region in the world is more colourful or picturesque than India. Its ancient monuments and buildings designed by master- craftsmen of bygone days, its customs, festivals, religions philosophy and at testify to one of the  oldest and richest civilization  and are of absorbing interest. To the lover of nature, the botanist and the naturalist, India offers every charm in forest, mountain, valley, cultivated plain or desert waste.
 
The brief description of Himalayas and places of tourist interest in India is as under
 
HIMALAYAS
 
India has the spectacular Himalayan range covering the entire northern part of India, nestling five major states of the country within it. The ancient Indian pilgrims who have travelled in these mountains since time immemorial coined a Sanskrit word for the Himalayas meaning “Abode of Snow”.

The reasons why people have been so fascinated by the Indian Himalayas is because of the Hindu pilgrim routes, the low valleys that abruptly rise up in high mountain ranges, the lovely trekking hikes, densely forested areas lying just a mountain range away from barren cold deserts, and the lovely people of the mountains with their unique hospitable lifestyles.
 

Major Indian Himalayan Regions
 

Jammu & Kashmir

 
Jammu and Kashmir are actually three regions: the foothill plains of Jammu; the lakes and blue valleys of Kashmir rising to alpine passes, the high altitude plains and starkly beautiful mountains of Ladakh, which lies beyond those passes. It's enough to move one to poetry. Srinagar is Kashmir's summer capital and Jammu, the winter capital. Among the most attractive part that this Indian state has is the adventure oppurtunities that can be seggragated into trekking, mountaineering and Trans Himalayan Jeep Safari.
 
Himachal Pradesh
 
Himachal Pradesh is the land of snow, lofty peaks, cascading streams, alpine meadows & lush fruit-laden valleys. Many parts of the Himachal state have a distinctly Austrian look with conifer-clad mountains, chalet-like huts with overhanging balconies and serene blue valleys watered by snow-fed streams. Himachal also store numerous wonderful hill stations, which are particularly cool in summers. Shimla, Dalhousie, Kullu, Manali and Kufri are a few of the hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh which offer breathtaking scenery and countless options of adventure sports. Dharamshala, where the Dalai Lama lives, is another important centre on the tourist map.
 
Uttaranchal
 
Lying in the north of the vast and bountiful expanse of India and cradled in the awesome beauty and calm serenity of the stately Himalayas, Uttaranchal - the "Devbhumi" that has attracted tourists and pilgrims from world over since time immemorial. Comprising of eight hill districts and an area and population that equals the state of Himachal Pardesh, Uttaranchal is an expression of divinity, austerity, meditation, penance and attainment. Uttaranchal is a paradise for adventure sports. The sheer variety ranging from Mountaineering, Trekking, Skiing, Skating, Water Sports to Aero Sports like Hang Gliding, Paragliding make Uttaranchal one of the most attractive destinations for adventure sports not only in India but the world over.
 
Sikkim
 
Sikkim is rooted to the Himalayan Massif like a scale on the neck of a Dragon. One of the smallest states of India, it is bounded by Nepal to the west and Bhutan to the east; by the Tibet Autonomous Region of China to the north and northeast and by West Bengal to the south.  Shrouded in heavy mist, the guardian deity Kangchenjunga both protects and terrifies the inhabitants of the magical kingdom of Sikkim. An awe-inspiring mass of rock clothed in dazzling white snow, this Himalayan giant in the world’s third highest peak at 8,590m (28,199ft). The name itself means ’house of five treasures’ represented by its five soaring summits.
 
The North Eastern States - Seven Sisters
 
The seven sisters comprise of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Tripura, Meghalaya and Mizoram. While the seven sisters are unique in their own way, the major Himalayan destination over here is Arunachal Pradesh. The state provides abundant scope for angling, boating, rafting, trekking and hiking. Besides, there are a number of wild life sanctuaries and national parks where rare animals, birds and plants will fascinate the visitor.
 
PLACES OF TOURIST INTEREST IN INDIA
 
1. Kashmir: Kashmir became an important centre of Hinduism and later of Buddhism; later still, in the ninth century, Kashmir Shaivism arose in the region. Kashmir is a multi-faceted diamond, changing its hues with the seasons - always extravagantly beautiful. Two major Himalayan ranges, Jammu is justly famous for its temples.
 
Area

:

20.36 Sq. km

Altitude

:

305 mtrs

Rainfall

:

107 cms (July to September)

Population(1981)

:

2,23,361(apprx.)

Languages

:

Dogri, Hindi, English, Urdu, Kashmiri, Punjabi

Best Season

:

October to April

Temperatures(Average)

:

26.2 to 4.3 degrees cent in winter. Temperatures in summer 43.0 to 23.4 Clothing : Heavy/Medium wollens in winters to light cottons in summers

Food

:

Every sort of vegetarian and non vegetarian food is available in multiple cuisines to suit every budget. Restaurants of all hues and shades are available all along the busy roads and other major spots. Foods suits all budgets and tastes.

Travels

:

Registered travel/tour operators are available.

Others

:

Tariffs are subject to change without notice and Cheques are not accepted.

Important Road Distances

:

Amritsar: 243 Kms; Chandigarh: 436 Kms; Delhi: 586 Kms; Katra: 48 Srinagar: 305 Kms; Manali: 428 Kms; Patnitop: 112 Kms; Mansar : 60Kms

 

Tourism in Kashmir: Worth visiting are Nishat Garden, Shalimar Garden, Chashmashahi Garden, Dal Lake, Harwan, Gulmarg, Pahalgam & Sonamarg.

  • Srinagar: Divide by the Jhelum river which is spanned by nine bridges, srinagar lies in the herath of the Kashmir valley. This beautiful capital city is indeed the” Venice of the east”, for , apart from the river, the town lies on the edge of the dal lake,8 km .(5 miles) long and 4 km. both on the Lakh and on the Jhelum are picturesque houseboats for tourists . well- furnished, the houseboats can be moored at any spot on the river or the edge of the lake. A trip down the river in a swiftly gliding  Shikara gives a beautiful view of the city’s quaint balconies, busy Ghats, mosques and temples. Tourist Interest : Mughal garden, Dal lake.
  • Amarnath:  Forty-five kilometers(28 miles) from pahalgam in the region of ice and rock is the sacred cave of amaranth – a principal place of hindu pilgrimage. The route passes through high mountains and rugged scenery. The magnificent lake sheshnag lies en route about 24 km.
  • Sonamarg : eighty- two kilometers (51 miles) from srinagar, sonamarg ( the golden meadow) is situated in the sindh valley at an altitude of  2,667m. ( 8,750 ft). treks to gangabal  lake and many other  palaces can be under taken from sonamarg.

2. Punjab: The State of Punjab called the Food Bowl of India is divided into 20 districts. Of these the following are worth visiting though entire Punjab is known for greenery and scenic beauty:
 
  • Ludhiana:  famous for its hosiery and woolen goods and products from Ludhiana are exported all over the world. For its production of hosiery, Ludhiana is also known as the Manchester of India. It also boasts of the world famous Punjab Agricultural University. Nearby is Killa Raipur, which is famous for its Rural Olympic.

  • Patiala:  Patiala is is famous for its healthy food, loving people, wonderful parandaas, exciting Patiala peg and jootis. Easily accessible and well maintained, Patiala is a place that would give one the much-needed tranquility far from urban chaos.

  • Jallandhar: is an ancient city but not much of its evidence is left now. Today, it is a major rail and road junction and an army cantonment.

  • Amritsar: A few miles within India’s north- western border is Amritsar, known for Golden Temple, the most sacred shrine of the Sikhs and the tank called the pool of immortality . Ram Das, the fourth sikh of guru , founded the city while excavating the holy tank, guru arjun dev built the temple and ranjit singh ruler enriched the shrine and covered its dome with copper, overlaid with gold foil. Tourist interest: visit to The Golden Temple founded by the fourth Guru of Sikhs, It is here that people from all over the world come to pay their reverence to The Guru Granth Sahib and take a dip in the Amrit Saras Kund (Pool of Immortality) for spiritual purification., Jallian Wala Bagh, visit the Wagha Border.

3. Chandigarh: Chandigarh is India’s first planned city built in the early 1950s by the internationally renowned architect Le Corbusier. Chandigarh city boosts of several beautiful gardens which are treat to the eye. The city’s pollution-free air, the short distance, the wide tree lined boulevards and avenues, lakes contribute to making Chandigarh a charming place for residents and visitors. Gardens and Parks: Rock Garden, Rose Garden, Bougainvillea Garden, Shanti Kunj, Terrace Garden, Smriti Upavana, Rajendra Park, Kansal and Neplis forests, Sukhna Lake, Gurdwara Nada Sahib, International Dolls Museum and Punjab Kala Kendra.

 
 
 

4. Mumbai: Mumbai is the Financial And Commercial Capital Of India. It has an international airport and is well connected by railway network. Mumbai is the hub of movie related business. From historic buildings and renowned museums to popular beaches and tours of India's commercial film industry The place of tourist attraction in Mumbai are: Haji Ali Mosque, Gateway of India, Town Hall, University Buildings, Bombay High Court, Crawford Market, Chowpatty Beach (GIRGAUM), Juhu Beach. Essel World, Bollywood - The Film City. Apart from these, Gardens & Parks in Mumbai are Augus Kranti Park, Gowalia Tank, Kamala Nehru Park, Malabar Hill, Lions park, Juhu, Jogger's park, Bandra Pherozshah Mehta Gardens (Hanging Garden), S.K Patil Udyan Shivaji Park, Priyadarshini Park & Napean sea. The best time to visit Mumbai is between October- March.

5. Rajashthan: Rajasthan is unequalled in the world for its heritage, culture, safaris, sand dunes and lush green forests with its wildlife. Rajasthan is often expressed as huge open-air museum with relic so well preserved for the travelers and the curious of the day.

  • Jaipur: Jaipur, also known as the Pink City of India has the worth visiting Amber fort, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, Birla Mandir. Jaipur, a royal city, known for its exclusive offerings of gemstones, fabrics, palaces and folktales surrounded by sand-dunes that transport one to the charm of a bygone era.

  • Udaipur: Udaipur has been described as the ‘city of sunrise’ ant the ‘Venice of the east’. Here the visitors will find his dream of India come true, for the city combines real beauty with the picturesque associations,of a great and glorious past. It stands in a valley, amid green hills on the bank of the wide, steel-blue lake pichola. One can also visit the City Palace and the Sahelon ki Bari and Lake Pichola.

  • Bikaner : Like Jodhpur, a desert city, built on an elevation and surrounded by a fine embattled wall pierced by five gates.The city possesses many fine buildings like the fort, built in the 6th century by raja rai singh, contain some old palaces, an interesting Sanskrit and Persian library and an armountry. Among several other interesting building in bikaner and the lalgarh palace, jain monasteries, temples and mosques. Outside the city is a modern temple dedicated to Siva. Visit Junagarh fort and National Camel Breeding farm.

  • Jaisalmer : visit the Jaisalmer Fort and walk around the narrow lanes to view the famous havelis (town houses).

  • Jodhpur : Meherangarh fort and Jaswant Thada, Temple Complex of Osian.

  • Ajmer: Ajmer, situated in a basin at the foot of taragarh hill, is the key to Rajasthan. Founded in the 11th century by the Chauhan ruler, Ajaipal, the city is dominated by the taragarh fortress built by Akber. Bishop Herber called it “ the Gibraltar of India “. It has changed hands many times.  Tourist interest: Dargah khwaja sahib, mayo college, pushkar,  lake &  Bharma temple

6. Delhi:  Delhi, being the capital and also a historical city of India. Delhi is not only the capital of India but its large cultural heritage also makes it a great attraction for tourists from all over the world. The synchronization of the ancient with the modern completes the definition of Delhi. Delhi is spread in a large area and with it are spread the various tourist spots representing various religion, dynasties and eras which time created.

  • Old Delhi:  visit Raj Ghat, Jama Masjid, Red Fort, Chandni Chowk the shopping centre of Old Delhi.
  • New Delhi: the capital designed by Lutyens and characterized by wide, tree-lined avenues and magnificent colonial buildings. Drive past India Gate, the President's Palace and visit the Qutub Minar & International airport.

7. Agra: Located at a distance of 203 Km from Delhi, known for the world –famous Taj.  Agra - the city of the Taj Mahal is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world. One of the eight wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal is known for its unrivalled architectural beauty. Taj Mahal  world famous monument of love was constructed by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jehan.

8. Khajuraho: Known for temples dedicated to the Hindu pantheon of Gods are covered in carvings that are a paean to life and love. Built within a short span of a hundred years by the Chandela Rajputs. Khajuraho has achieved fame for the sensual appeal of its sculptures.

9. Pune: Pune was known as “Punyenagari” and it was here that the legendary Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji spent his childhood in the 17th century. Places to visit  in and around Pune are : Lonavla & Khandala, Sinhagad, Matheran, Mahableshwar, Osho Commune, Panchgani, Lohagad & Visapur Forts, Rajgad Fort, Pratapgad Fort, Purandar, Torna, Bhimashankar Temple, Dehu, Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves, Bedsa Caves, Alandi, Jejuri & Ashtavinayaka.

10. Goa: Goa is the best known as a tourist paradise, both in India and abroad. Goa rank among the top beaches in the world. Places of tourist interest:   Mapusa, Panaji, Ponda, Mormugao Harbour, Vasco-da-Gama &  Margao, the beaches in Goa (Agonda, Anjuna, Arambol, Baga, Bambolim, Benaulim, Bogmalo, Calangute, Candolim, Cavelossim, Chapora, Colva, Dona Paula, Majorda, Mirama, Palolem, Vagator & Varca Beach), Goa Churches (Basilica of Bom Jesus, Mary Immaculate Conception, Reis Magos Church, Se Cathedral, St. Anne Church, Church of St. Augustine, St. Cajetan Church, Church of St. Francis & St. Paul Church) & Goa Forts (Cabo De Rama Fort, Chapora Fort & Terekhol Fort).
 
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