icnrc.org

India is among the most colorful nations of the world and boasts of a rich history, culture and heritage. To get the most of your trip to India, it would be a good idea to equip yourself with useful information before you set out for a journey of a lifetime.

Getting In and Out

* To explore India, you need a valid passport and visa to India. Carry them at all times while enjoying a vacation in India. Notify your country’s embassy or consulate in case your passport is stolen or lost.
* One needs additional permits to go to certain destinations in India such as Andaman Islands, Gujarat, Ladakh, Kerala, and more. Check with your travel agent or embassy while planning your visit.
* 15-Day visa extensions are granted under exceptional circumstances. If you intend to stay longer than 3 months on non-tourist visas there is a registration requirement. This registration makes the bearer eligible for domestic ticket prices.

Getting Around and About

* Most cities have means of efficient local transportation such as taxis, auto rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and buses. Private cabs can also be hired.
* It is important to carry an International Driving License if you wish to drive on your own.
* For inter-city and inter-state transport you can avail services of Indian Railways and domestic airlines. Buses, taxis and cabs also ferry people across cities and states.

Climate

* It is best to visit Indian plains during cooler months from November to March.
* For a visit to mountainous regions of India, the months of April to October are better suited.

Food and Health

* Indian cuisine is a tad too spicy for European and American taste buds. Indulge in the gastronomical delights only if you have the stomach for it. Also, there are plenty of non-spicy cuisines and delicacies to choose from.
* You may occasionally need insect repellent cream. If you are allergic to dust, be sure to carry medication with you. Sunscreen is another must-have.

Smart Shopping

* Bargaining is the norm in local bazaars selling products without a written price. Resist the urge to buy without comparing prices from shops selling similar stuff.
* Be wary of roadside peddlers trying to sell you semi-precious and precious gems and jewelry. Visit state emporia and the Central Cottage Industries Emporia (most major cities have one) for fixed prices and a fair idea of the cost with a regular dealer.
* Trading in ivory, fur, animal skins, antiquities and the like is illegal. If you must have it, obtain a certificate of legitimate sale and permission for export before leaving the country.

Social Decorum

* Public display of affection is not appreciated and neither is public nudity unless perhaps one is at a beach.
* One is expected to cover the head before entering a religious place such as a temple or mosque.
* Ask for permission before clicking pictures of women and religious complexes. Some places charge for taking pictures while it is prohibited at a few places as well.

Do’s and Don’ts

* Do carry attested photocopies of your travel documents and keep the originals in a safely locked baggage.
* Do fill up a Currency Declaration Form along and a Disembarkation Card besides making an oral declaration of the luggage you are carrying.
* Do not smoke in public places.
* Do not give money to beggars.

Information by http://www.indianholiday.com

In the city of Taj, Agra, you may see the ‘baby taj’ too. The tomb of Itmad-Udaipur -daulah or the ‘baby taj’ in marble reveals extensive use of pietra dura.12345 Travel Adventure India – Agra

It is not just that the amazing city of Agra is dotted with places to see. There are several places around Agra too that you must see. Around Agra is the town of Sikandra. Sikandra’s claim to fame is the tomb of Akbar, the great Mughal emperor. The other place worth seeing once in Agra is the red sandstone city of Akbar, Fatehpur Sikri. The deserted city boasts of historical monuments like the marbletomv of Sheikh Salim Chisti, Buland darwaza, Panch mahal, Diwan-I-Aam, Diwan-I-Khas besides the Palace of Jodha Bai and Birbal Bhawan. The pious amongst you must see Vrindavan, Gokul and Mathura; all of these places are around Agra.

These places are pilgrim centers famous for their association with Lord Krishna. Amongst the must see at these places ahead of Agra are the temples and the structures. They remind you of the legends of the life and times of Lord Krishna. While in a holy place like Vrindavan you must see the renowned Govind Dev Temple, the Ranganathan temple and the ISKCON temple. In Gokul the Chaurasi Khamba (84 pillars) or the Nand Maharaja’s house is worth seeing.

Make your holidays at Agra more enjoyable by seeing these nearby places. These places not only enhance tourism potential in Agra but also are worth seeing holiday spots themselves.

Information by http://www.indianholiday.com

Places to see in and around Alleppey – Alappuzha

The pilgrim and the archeological center of Bodhgaya boast of several places worth seeing in and The backwater town of Alleppey or Alappuzha has several places worth seeing in and around it. While in Alleppey you must see the Alleppey Beach. At the Beach the 137-year-old pier, the lighthouse and the Vijaya Beach Park are the must sees. For the water lovers in Alleppey the Sea View Park is a must see.

Besides in Alleppey there are several other places around Alleppey that are worth seeing. Though the nature lovers in Allepeey must visit Pathiramanal. The place is renowned for being home to several rare and migratory birds and is just an hour and a half drive away from Alleppey. Then there is the Ambalapuzha Krishna temple that is an elegant example of the temple architecture. The temple hosts an annual festival in the month of March.

The protected monument of Krishnapuram Palace is another place worth seeing around Alleppey. The pilgrim center of Arthunkal is another must see around Alleppey. In Arthunkal the St. Andrew’s Church hosts the annual feast of St. Sebastian in January. The Edatgya Church also lies around Alleppey and is dedicated to St. George. While in Alleppey you may even plan a boat trip to the resort of Chavara Bhavan. The place is a holy shrine and the ancestral home of Kuriakose Elias Chavara.

Make your holidays at Alleppey more enjoyable by seeing these nearby places. These places not only enhance tourism potential in Alleppey but also are worth seeing holiday spots themselves.

Information by http://www.indianholiday.com

Tourist Places to see in and around Bangalore

The tourist and business center of Bangalore has several places worth seeing nearby and Holidays in Bangalore are incomplete without visiting the tourist spots around it. Natural wonders and scenic sites make excellent excursion options from Bangalore. For all those with a tilt towards music and dance Nrityagram village, housing a classical dance academy is a must check out. For the adventure seekers Devarayandurga and Ramanagaram are ideal spots for trekking and rock climbing. Nandi Hill is a health resort popular with the people of Bangalore. The lovely lake and the gorgeous green valley present a picture perfect setting for holidays. Close to Bangalore is Ramohalli renowned for its big Banyan tree called Doda Alada Mara. The tree is spread across three acres of land and is worth visiting. The Banerghatta National Park is a natural retreat quite close to Bangalore.

The fabulous flora, fauna and the birds at the Banerghatta National Park attract tourists and naturalists time and again. Mysore another important tourist destination of southern India is also an interesting place to see around Bangalore. The ancient temples and monuments built by the British are must check outs in Mysore. Close to Bangalore is Whitefield Ashram. It is the summer abode of the Shri Sathya Sai Baba. The ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) Temple Complex also attracts tourist and pilgrims holidaying in Bangalore.

Make your holidays at Bangalore more enjoyable by seeing these nearby places. These places not only enhance tourism potential in Bangalore but also are worth seeing holiday spots themselves.

The fabulous flora, fauna and the birds at the Banerghatta National Park attract tourists and naturalists time and again. Mysore another important tourist destination of southern India is also an interesting place to see around Bangalore. The ancient temples and monuments built by the British are must check outs in Mysore. Close to Bangalore is Whitefield Ashram. It is the summer abode of the Shri Sathya Sai Baba. The ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) Temple Complex also attracts tourist and pilgrims holidaying in Bangalore.

Make your holidays at Bangalore more enjoyable by seeing these nearby places. These places not only enhance tourism potential in Bangalore but also are worth seeing holiday spots themselves.

Information by http://www.indianholiday.com

Places to see in and around Bihar

The pilgrim and the archeological center of Bodhgaya boast of several places worth seeing in and around it. Besides the Mahabodhi temple the Archeological Museum of Bodhgaya is another place of tourist interest. The winter months from October to February sees several institutes conducting meditation courses in places in and around Bodhgaya. The seminars, meetings, discourses and the conventions aim at providing tranquility to the minds of the people. Bodhgaya hosts the Buddhist festivals with great fervor.

13 km north of Bodhgaya is the Hindu pilgrim center of Gaya. Gaya is situated on the west bank of the river Falgu. The holy land of Gaya has is believed to have been blessed by Lord Vishnu with the power to absolve the sin of the sinners, who come here for pilgrimage.

While in Gaya you must visit the Vishnupad temple. The Vishnupad temple reveals the Hindu shikhara style of architecture. The Vishnupad temple was built by Rani Ahilya Bai of Indore way back in the 18th century. In fact Gaya is the place to be in and participate in the rituals of the various Hindu festivals. In Gaya the Archaeological Museum has several exhibits that are worth seeing. The One thousand stone steps in Gaya lead to the Brahmajuni Hill, the perfect place to see the whole of Gaya.

Make your holidays at Bodhgaya more enjoyable by seeing these nearby places. These places not only enhance tourism potential in Bodhgaya but also are worth seeing holiday spots themselves.

Information by http://www.indianholiday.com

Places to see in and around Bombay
There are a number of tourist spots worth visiting around Bombay too. The Elephanta caves are the famous rock-cut temples made from two hills. The ferry ride from Gateway of India to the Elephanta caves makes an interesting option. Then there are the Karla caves that were built by the Buddhist monks and are famous for its Chaitya and a huge stone stupa. There are a mumber of hill stations around Bombay that make excellent retreats. Matheran, Khandala and Lonavala are amongst the resorts that attract several tourists. Boriveli National Park or the Sanjay Gandhi National Park is another must visit place around Bombay. Within the park are the Kanheri caves that boast of being the biggest Buddhist monastic structure on Konkan coast. The protected area is home to interesting flora and fauna. Another excursion option is the Bassein Fort. Bassein Fort is a remains of the Portuguese fortified city of Bassein.

Recommended Mumbai Holidays

Food in Bombay is another must checkout. Amongst the wide variety of cuisine available in Bombay are the Parsi dhansaak, Gujarati thalis, Muslim kebabs, Goan vindaloos et al. If you are holidaying in Bombay during the summer season then the mangoes should not be missed especially those of the Alphonso variety. The festival of Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with much zest in Bombay. Navratri is also ideal time to visit Bombay. Amongst the other important festivals of Bombay are Gokul Ashtami and Holi.
Tours to Mumbai

Mumbai, earlier known as Bombay, has many sobriquets- one being the city of dreams. A city filled with excitement and vigour, a holiday in Mumbai (Bombay) India definitely ignites the spark in a person, that spark which one often tends to lose in the race against time as one shuttles between office, work and a galore of responsibilities.

Mumbai (Bombay) India is called the city of dreams because every person who enters Bombay does so with a dream in his heart- most often the dream is to become a famous actor as this is the city which breeds aspiring as well as established stars of the Indian film industry

A holiday in Bombay with a stay in any of hotels in Bombay can vary from person to person, depending on what the tourist is exactly looking for. If it is for some quiet moments with oneself while listening to the waves crashing against the rocks…it is possible in Bombay. Or if you are looking for simply letting down your hair and partying the whole night,Mumbai has all the arrangements for such parties and fun.

So a holiday in Mumbai is what should definitely figure next in your tour-itinerary.

Information by http://www.indianholiday.com

Tourist Places to see in and around Calcutta

If you wish to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Calcutta then too there are several options. Shanti Niketan located 136 km northwest of Calcutta was the residence of Rabindranath Tagore and is a renowned university. Then there is the unexplored holiday destination of Bishnupur. The terracotta temples attract innumerable tourists. Balucheri saris, the rare ganijifa, delicately carved shells and bell metal artefacts make excellent souvenirs from Bishnupur. Towards north of Calcutta is the world famous Dakshineshwar Temple that is dedicated to Goddess Kali. Ramakrishna Paramhansa, the spiritual guru of Swami Vivekananda, spent most of his life here. Close to the Dakshineshwar Temple is the Belur Math. Belur Math is the headquarters of Ramakrishna Mission where people across castes and creed come. The Botanical Gardens in Shibpur besides Hoogly River are also worth visiting.

Recommended Calcutta Holidays

The chief attraction in the botanical gardens is the 250-year-old banyan tree. Bandel, 43 km from Calcutta is worth visiting for Bandel church. Chinsura at a distance of 46 kilometres from Calcutta is home to a Dutch factory that was built in 1628. Just 25 kms. from Calcutta is Chandernagar that was once a French settlement. Quai Dupleix, Eglise Du Sacre, and image of Joan of Arc are the must visits here. The ethnic food of Calcutta is not to be missed. Sweet curd and mishti doi is regular with all meals. For usual meal will include boiled rice with fish curry, saag, and mutton kalia. Rasgullas and Chumchums are the Bengali sweets that are popular across India.

Information by http://www.indianholiday.com

Tourist Places to see in and around Chennai

The dream destination of Darjeeling is dotted with places worth seeing in and around it. At a Make your holidays at Chennai more enjoyable by seeing nearby places. These places not only enhance tourism potential in Chennai but also are worth seeing holiday spots themselves.

The world-famous town of Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram is a must visit from Chennai. The shore temple, the largest bas-relief in the world called Arjuna’s Penance and mandapams are the main attractions here. The golden triangle of southern Indian comprises of Chennai, Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram. The Kanchi weaves are known to produce the finest silk fabric. The world-renowned shrine of Tirupati draws innumerable devotees all through the year. It is abode of the legendary Lord of the Seven Hills.

Recommended Chennai Holidays

Uninterrupted worship of the Lord has been carried out for over thirteen centuries at Tirupati. Covelong beach is an interesting excursion option. Besides the beach forts, churches and mosques attract tourists to Covelong. For the animal lovers crocodile bank is an interesting option. It is situated at a distance of 44 km from the main city. It is home to many rare species of Indian and African alligators and crocodiles. Amongst the other places worth visiting around Chennai are Muttukkadu, Thirukkalukundram, Vedathangal bird sanctuary, et al.

Information by http://www.indianholiday.com

Tourist Places to see in and around Cochin

The dream destination of Cochin is dotted with places worth seeing in and around it. At a There are several excellent excursion options from Cochin. Cultural capital of Kerala, Trichur is a daylong trip from Cochin. The cultural traditions of Kerala are revealed in the museums, art schools, and institutes of Trichur. Vadakkunathan Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is another must visit in Trichur. Pallippuram fort amongst the oldest existing European monuments in India is another place to see around Cochin. The museum of Kerala history in Edapally is another excursion option from Cochin. Chennamangalam near Cochin is an important handloom weaving and coir-manufacturing centre where you may visit the famous Vaipinkotta Seminary and an old Syrian Catholic Church. Close to Cochin is Kanjiramattom where the mosque attracts pilgrims and tourists alike. The mosque was built on the mortal remains of Sheikh Parid.

The Kodikuthu festival takes place at the mosque in December-January. For the fun seekers Cochin the beautiful Cherai Beach is an ideal retreat. Swimming is the best thing to do and there are chances of you spotting dolphins here too. Near by is a classic village of Kerala with paddy fields and coconut groves. The birthplace of Adi Shankaracharya, Kalady is another excursion option from Cochin. Two shrines made in memory of Shankaracharya are must visit sacred sites here. The annual festival in the Shiva temple of Cochin is the best time to visit Cochin. Make your holidays at Cochin more enjoyable by seeing these nearby places. These places not only enhance tourism potential in Cochin but also are worth seeing holiday spots themselves.

Information by http://www.indianholiday.com

Tourist Places to see in and around Darjeeling

The dream destination of Darjeeling is dotted with places worth seeing in and around it. At a short distance from the main town of Darjeeling you can see Ghoom. In Ghoom there is the renowned Yiga Choeling Monastery. The monastery houses several images of the Maitreya Buddha. The museum of Natural History is another place of tourist interest in Darjeeling. The nature lovers must see the Llyod Botanic Garden, the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park and the vistas from the Darjeeling-Rangit Valley ropeway. For the adventure seekers there are several treks in and around Darjeeling.

That’s not all around Darjeeling is kaleidoscopic Kalimpong. Kalimpong is indeed ‘the ridge where we play’. At Kamlimpong you get to see the Rolling Meadows and the Swiss Welfare Dairy besides the steeple of the Mac Farlane Church.

Amongst the many places worth seeing in Kalimpong is Dr. Graham’s Homes school on the Delo Hill. Durpin Dara offers spectacular vistas of the Himalayas, the monasteries like Pedong, Thongsha Gompa and Tharpa Choling Monastery have attrraction of there own.

Mirik is another place worth seeing around Darjeeling. The hill station of Mirik is a marvelous retreat for the sun-scorched souls of the plains. In Mirik you have to see and experience the magnificence of the mighty Himalayas in the Sumendu Lake. The tea gardens and the orange orchards are the other places of interest in Mirik.

Make your holidays at Darjeeling more enjoyable by seeing these nearby places. These places not only enhance tourism potential in Darjeeling but also are worth seeing holiday spots themselves.

Information by http://www.indianholiday.com