Honeymoon Destinations in India for Newlyweds

Posted by | Posted in Holidays & Vacations, Travel | Posted on 19-10-2012

Honeymoon is a part of the tradition of wedding. This is the time when newlyweds get to know each other. The path to a happy married life is paved through honeymoon. There are many honeymoon destinations across the world where couples get to spend their time away from the family in each other’s company. Depending on the preference of the bride and the groom, the choice of honeymoon destination should be made. Romantic places are generally the first choice followed by locations which are adventurous. Couples can cozy up to each other and participate in activities together, which will bring them more close to each other.

Honeymoon Destinations

Top Honeymoon destinations in India

There are many honeymoon destinations in India which are quite in demand among the honeymooners. Some of them are listed below:

  1. Ooty

Ootacamund popularly known as Ooty is a hill station in the Nilgiri Hills. It is also known as ‘Queen of the Hills’. The amazing hills, the lovely lakes and the climate of Ooty all make it a charming place where newlyweds can go for their honeymoon. April to June is the best time for honeymoon.

  • Key attractions: Ooty Lake, Botanical Garden, trekking, etc.
  1. Shillong

Situated in North East India this hill station has not been explored much. Also known as the ‘Scotland of the East’, this place is full of pine forests, big hills, waterfalls, vast lakes, etc. The scenic beauty of Shillong is breathtaking. October to November and March to April are the best time to visit.

  • Key attractions: Umiam Lake, Cherrapunjee, Elephant Falls, Golf Link, etc.
  1. Jodhpur

Jodhpur in Rajasthan is famous for its palaces. The large expanse of deserts, numerous temples and forts make Jodhpur a popular honeymoon destination for those who have a love for history. It is best to avoid the place during summers because of it heat. The best time for honeymoon in Jodhpur is from September to March.

  • Key attractions: Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jaswant Thada, Mehrangarh Fort, etc.
  1. Goa

Goa is the most popular honeymoon spot in India. The charm of Goa draws in many honeymooners. The greenery is beautiful and the beaches are perfect for a stroll in the evening. The best time for honeymooning in Goa is from September to May.

  • Key attractions: Ancient churches, Parasailing, Scuba diving, etc

Secret Beaches in Goa

Posted by | Posted in Holidays & Vacations, Travel | Posted on 09-10-2012

While Goa is popular for its family friendly beaches like Calangute, Anjuna and Baga in the North and Colva and Palolem in the south, there are a handful of secluded secret beaches that you can be in complete isolation, far away from the crowds. So pack your sun cream, a good book and prepare to let time come to a standstill at one of these 6 secret beaches in Goa.

1) Keri Beach, North Goa

Keri or Querim is the northernmost beach in Goa, with the state of Maharashtra a short walk away. This quaint little beach has the magnificent Tiracol Fort as backdrop. Keri is accessible from the popular Arambol beach by hired scooter, which is 5 kilometres away. The northern tip of the beach is where the Tiracol river meets the Indian Ocean.

2) Mandrem & Ashvem Beaches, North Goa

This gorgeous stretch of white sand beach is easily one of the best beaches in Goa. Mandrem & Ashvem are sandwiched by Arambol beach to the north and Morjim beach to the south. These beaches are seldom frequented by tourists and is a great alternative to the more crowded beaches of North Goa. Great location if you want a quiet place to stay, but still close enough to the party beaches in North Goa.

3) Canaguinim Beach, South Goa

Just south of the popular Betul beach is the tranquil Canaguinim. In contrast to its neighbour, Canaguinim has no package tourists or eateries lined across the beach. With little else to do, you can watch the local fisherman go about their daily business. At the southern tip of Canaguinim lies the majestic Cabo da Rama Fort. This beach is an ideal spot for a picnic or a day trip from Palolem beach or Margao town.

4) Issorcim Beach, South Goa

Away from the bustling activity of the neighbouring Bogmalo beach is the small strip of sand called Issorcim. It is also one of the few spots in Goa that you can find coral. The panoramic views from the surrounding hills are simply breathtaking. Issorcim is also just a few kilometres from the Dabolim airport, making it easily accessible.

5) Cola Beach, South Goa

If you are looking for the get-away-from-it-all experience, Cola beach is just the place for you. You will not come across hawkers, shacks and even the ubiquitous fishermen are rare in these parts. Cola, pronounced ‘Koola’ by the locals, can be reached by two wheel transport from Palolem or Agonda. It is also an ideal place to go camping if you are carrying a tent.

6) Galgibaga beach, South Goa

Galgibaga is also known as Turtle beach as the Olive Ridley turtles nest here every year. Because of the conservation programme run by the Forest Department, infrastructure is sparse on the beach. The upside is that the beach is almost always deserted and you will find that you have the beach to yourself and the turtles most times.

The state of Goa is blessed with more than 100 kilometres of beautiful coastline. Given its laid back lifestyle, fine beaches and awesome climate, it is no surprise that people from around the world choose to move to Goa for good. Another reason is that English is widely spoken by the people of Goa, along with Konkani and Hindi.

Kashmir Tourism Will Never Let You Down

Posted by | Posted in Holidays & Vacations, Travel | Posted on 25-05-2012

Kashmir is a beautiful valley region located in northernmost Indian state of Jammu & Kashmir (J & K). It is famous for its extraordinary natural beauty and often called the Heaven on the Earth. It is gifted by all the impressions of natural beauty and never fails to lure its visitors coming from different parts of the world. The valley region is dotted with picturesque hill stations, eye-catching lush meadows with colorful flowers, fruit laden orchards, lovely lakes, natural spring, rolling hills, mountain streams, wondrous waterfalls, verdant deep valleys, rich flora & fauna and gorgeous gardens. It is not only famous for its natural beauty and attractions but also for heritage and cultural attractions. There are many religious sites, temples and mosques in this region that can be visited during the trip.

Along with natural beauty, cultural heritage attractions cool & delightful climate and heavenly ambiance, the vale of Kashmir has been very popular among tourists from all over the world. It has bee a right destination for nature lovers, paradise for honeymooning couples, perfect destination for families and just right gateway for adventure enthusiasts. Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg are prominent tourist destinations in the valley which play a big role in the popularly of Kashmir tourism all over the world. Exploring these fascinating destinations will provide you a brilliant opportunity to explore the best attractions of the valley and the charm of tourism will never let you down. You will treasure lots of fascinating things to cherish for lifetime.

Srinagar, the Summer Capital of Indian state of Jammu & Kashmir, is the most popular tourist destination in the vale of Kashmir. It is famous for lakes, religious shrines, moored houseboats, narrow canals and lovely lakes. Dal Lake, Wular Lake, Shankaracharya Temple, Hazratbal Shrine, Khanqah-e-Molla, Jama Masjid, Kheer Bhawani, Tulip Garden, Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, etc are prominent tourist attractions for tourism in this beautiful city. You can also enjoy here different fun activities such as golfing, long leisure walk, photography at scenic places and handicrafts shopping. Shikara ride on the lake is a popular way to beauty of the city. Houseboats moored at the picturesque Dal Lake provide tourists excellent accommodation facilities for tourists.

Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Pahalgam are three other most important tourist destinations in Kashmir valley that can be easily reached from Srinagar. Gulmarg is an internationally famous hill resort. It is famous for winter sports. It is considered to be one of the finest skiing resorts in the world. Ski Resort, Alpather Lake, Highest Golf Course, Gondola, etc are famous places to visit in Gulmarg.

Many Tourism Options in India – Explore Incredible Tourism

Posted by | Posted in Holidays & Vacations, Travel | Posted on 07-05-2012

India is a diverse and vast country in South Asia. Due to unique cultural and geographical features it offers varied tourism options. Hence it has been one of the most sought after countries in the world when it comes to choose a right country in Asia for tourism. Have a look at some of popular tourism options available in this country.

Cultural & Heritage Tourism

India has rich cultural heritage. There are many fascinating historical places, heritage sites and cultural objects in this country which attract tourists each year. Cultural & heritage tourism in this country remind tourists for magnificent forts, palatial palaces, medieval temples, historical places, religious shrines, pilgrimage places, colorful fairs & festivals, vibrant celebration, ancient custom & tradition and many more. Some of most visited attractions of cultural tours in India include Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri, Rajasthan Forts & Monuments, Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, Khajuraho Temple Complex, Ajanta & Ellora Caves, Sanchi Stupa, Mahabalipuram Group of Monuments, Meenakshi Amman Temple, etc.

Nature Tourism

India is also renowned for nature or eco tourism. There are many interesting places and destinations in this country which are blessed with fantastic beauty of nature. Picturesque hill stations, beautiful beaches, thick forests, wildlife sanctuaries and reserves are very popular attractions for nature or eco tourism in the country. Shimla, Manali, Darjeeling, Gangtok, Mussoorie, Ranikhet, Almora, Ladakh, Kashmir Valley, Ooty, Kodaikanal, Munnar, Ponmudi, Wayanad, etc are India’s most beautiful hill stations which attract nature lovers. Kaziranga & Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, Jim Corbett National Park, and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary are also popular destinations for nature tourism and wildlife tourism as well.

Wildlife Tourism

India is also known for offering ample opportunities for wildlife tourism at its famous animal sanctuaries and reserves. Indian wildlife sanctuaries and reserves are home to rich diverse flora and fauna. Ranthambore, Kaziranga, Jim Corbett, Keoladeo Ghana, Kanha, Mudumalai and Periyar are famous national parks & wildlife reserves which are popular destinations for wildlife tourism in India.

Adventure Tourism

India also offers ample opportunities for adventure activities and sports. Tourists can enjoy here different adventurous activities and sports such as wildlife safari, mountain adventure sports, river sports and water sports. Indian hill stations located in foothills of the Great Himalayas are very popular among adventure enthusiast. Manali and Ladakh are among most popular destination for adventure tourism in the country. Indian national parks are also popular among wildlife adventure seekers. Goa and Andaman & Nicobar are widely acclaimed for offering ample opportunities for thrilling and daring water sports.

Monsoon Tourism, Rural Tourism, Beach Tourism and Medical Tourism are other elements of incredible India tourism that attract tourists.

So, embark on India tour to treasure the charm of different tourism options available.

Incredible Rajasthan Tourism

Posted by | Posted in Holidays & Vacations, Travel | Posted on 18-04-2012

Rajasthan Tourism is incredible and unbelievable. It is of course an essential and inherent part of our country India. The true and stunning and elegant charm of Indian tourism can be seen in Rajasthan. Rajasthan is one of the Royal places and states of the country, India. Rajasthan owns the potential and power to attract highest number of tourists towards it each and every year. People love its culture, folk music and dance and its food. You will get everything from culture and tradition to luxurious holiday experience along with safari, adventure, and heritage travel and wildlife expedition. Rajasthan is also popular for its wild life sanctuaries and national parks like Ranthambhore National Park, Sariska National Park, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, and many more to name. The tourism of Rajasthan is ethnic in pure sense.

At present, Rajasthan is one amongst the most famous and most demanding destinations for travel and tourism. A major part of the earning of Indian tourism department comes from none other than Rajasthan. It appeals to the tourists, honey moon couples, wildlife lovers, adventurers, and enthusiasts from all around the globe. It is vibrant and never misses upon impressing the tourists and vacationers because it has incredible presence and beauty attached to it.

Rajasthan in literal way signifies the “Land of Kings” and the “Land of Monuments”. The royal luster and brilliance is depicted and displayed in its palaces and forts which go back to prominent and great emperors and kings. You will get to see and visit several other monuments which are attached with great stories and epics. The Rajasthan museum is the ultimate place to go for. No matter whether you are a great fan of goods, jewelry, garments, weapons and artifacts, you will get everything under one roof. The dresses, jewelry, everything is ancient and has its own stature and beauty. The havelis have been turned up into great heritage restaurants and hotels to offer great services but with traditional folk culture. These heritage hotels are full of luxury and vibrant charm.

If you are stranded on the desert then you will see nothing but sand and sand dunes all around you up till where you can focus. The camels are known as the Ship of Desert. Therefore, the one who has not taken the camel ride has not enjoyed the beauty of Rajasthan to its fullest. Rajasthan Tourism is incomplete without a visit to its capital city, Jaipur which is known as the “Pink City” as well as Udaipur, which is known as the “City of Lakes”.

Holidays in Goa and Goa Tourism Attractions

Posted by | Posted in Holidays & Vacations, Travel | Posted on 02-04-2012

Placed in the western coast of India, Goa is a captivating holiday destination in India. It is the smallest but most gorgeous state of India. It is small but has many worthy destinations for celebrating holidays in truly pleasurable ways.

It is widely much-admired for its unspoiled beautiful beaches, marvelous temples, splendid churches, striking wildlife, wonderful forts & palaces, affluent museums & art galleries, historical monuments, beautiful lakes, charming rivers, talkative waterfalls, momentous towns and lush spice plantations. With a lot of attractions and admirable holiday spots, Goa is nowadays a dream destination for vacationers and travellers through out the entire globe.

A trip to Goa presents a wonderful chance to travel around following exotic tourist spots and attractions.

Beaches - Beaches are perhaps the most sought after destinations and attractions of Goa tourism. This gorgeous land is spotted with several beautiful beaches inviting tourists and holidaymakers thorough out the world. Palm-fringed and sun-kissed beaches here are just perfect and ideal destinations for remarkable sightseeing and comfortable vacation with the fantastic charm of sun, sand, surf and sea. Tourists can enjoy here water fun and sport activities like water fun & sport activities like water-skiing, fishing, angling, water-scootering, scuba diving, cruises, etc. Baga, Calangute, Anjuna, Vagator, Dona Paul, Benaulim, Colva, Candolim, Palolem, Arambol, etc are names of some beaches of Goa.

Churches - Gorgeous land of Goa is also much admired for its magnificent churches and convents. Goa churches and convents are listed as UNESCO World heritage sites. Churches here are excellent example of Portuguese’s art & architecture. Intricately elaborated churches and convents here create spellbinding effect on visitors.

World visit churches are Basilica of Bom Jesus, Church of St Francis of Assisi, Se Cathedral, Church of Lady of Rosary, Church of Holy Spirit, Chapel of St Catherine, Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Mary Immaculate Conception, St Augustine Church, St Anne Church, etc. These fine-looking churches and convents are living testimony of rich & glorious historical past of the state.

Temples - Besides churches, there are many Hindu temples in this state. Worth visit temple attractions here are Shri Kamakshi Temple, Shri Manguesh Temple, Shri Mahalsa Temple, Shantadurga Temple, etc.

Forts - There are many magnificent forts in this state. Aguada Fort here is the largest Portuguese fort and the most popular one. Some other splendid forts here are Cabo Raj Niwas (situated at just opposite of Aguada Fort), Cabo Fort (Raj Bhawan), Chapora Fort, Teracol Fort, Mormugoa Fort, etc.

Anjuna Flea Market - It is one of the featured attractions of Goa vacation. You will surely love to explore this bustling colorful & vibrant bazaar. It is hell on every Wednesday on the famous Anjuna Beach.

Wildlife - On your Holidays in Goa, you will also have opportunity to enjoy the charm of wildlife with diverse flora and fauna. Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary and Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary are worth visit on Goa tours and travels.

Lakes and Waterfalls – The beautiful land of Goa is also home to some beautiful lakes and waterfalls. Dudhsagar waterfall and Mayhems Lake much admired by tourists and vacationers.

There are many more, much more much many more in the smallest state of Goa. You can see all them on your visit. So plan out your trip to this gorgeous land and give your eyes a great feast.

India Tourism – Major Attractions in Northern India

Posted by | Posted in Holidays & Vacations, Travel | Posted on 27-02-2012

India is a beautiful country and one of the most popular tourism destinations in the world. It appeals travelers and vacationers from all over the world with its numerous catchy attractions. It never fails to lure its visitors. With so many catchy attractions, vibrant culture & tradition and excellent tourist facilities, India has become very popular and tempting tourism destination. It is home to myriad attractions of all kind. Ancient temples, historical monuments, religious monuments, art & architectures, beaches, backwaters, hill stations, sand dunes, and remarkable cities are major attractions of tourism in this beautiful country.

Some remarkable tourist attractions in northern part of India are following.

Taj Mahal - Located in the city of Agra, it is one of the most beautiful and impressive buildings in the world. Built in white marble with beautiful gardens in surroundings, it is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site, this monument was built by mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the loving memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is the ultimate symbol of eternal love and one of the star attractions of India travel and tourism.

Red Fort - Red Fort is one of the most impressive mughal monuments. Built in red sand stone this grand fort complex is located in Delhi, the capital city of India. This impressive mughal monument showcases the high level of art form and ornamental form. Its stunning architectural designs never fail to lure visitors and tourists. The architecture of the fort complex is marvelous blend of Persian, European, and Indian art & architecture. There are many beautiful buildings inside the fort complex such as Diwan-I-Aam, Diwan-I-Khas, Mumtaz Mahal, Moti Masjid, Hayat Bakhsh Bagh, etc. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Qutub Minar – Located in the city of Delhi, it is the tallest brick minaret in the world. Declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site it is very popular among tourists from all over the world. Sometimes it enjoys more visitors than of the magnificent Taj Mahal.

India Gate - Located in the city of Delhi on Rajpath it is the national monument of India. Originally known as All India War Memorial it is the prominent landmark in the city of Delhi. It is dedicated to brave soldiers who laid down their lives during the First World War and Afghan Wars. The surface of the India Gate is engraved with name of 90,000 Indian warriors.

There are many more attractions in northern India booming India tourism greatly such as Lotus Temple in Delhi, Akshardham Temple in Delhi, Hawa Mahal in Jaipur, Amber Fort in Jaipur, Golden Fort in Jaisalmer, Golden Temple in Amritsar, Dal Lake in Kashmir, etc. I will reveal information about more attractions northern India in my next article which will give you enticing and memorable experience of tourism in India.

Kerala Tourism – The Places, Festivals and Colors

Posted by | Posted in Holidays & Vacations, Travel | Posted on 22-02-2012

Calm serene beaches, eco tourism and palm grove resorts were the trademarks of Kerala-tourism. Now Kerala-tourism is also redefined as Kerala health tourism, Kerala adventure tourism, Kerala backwater tourism and a lot more. Kerala tourism also stands high in Indian tourism and world tourism with the calm serene beaches, backwaters, house boat journeys, rolling hills blanketed with forests or tea plantation, scopes of adventure, forest and wildlife, trekking, bird watching, best climate, and a fairly long monsoon season.

Early maritime traders came here with an eye on Rich products of God’s own country, Kerala Spices like pepper, nutmeg, and other rich products like Coir, Cashew nut, Coconut and Coconut products, Natural Fruits and Food Products. In this land where season never ends, come tourists in search of riches- now it is the piece of mind the serene back waters can provide and to feel the healing touch of nature in an eco-tourism center.

Colorful performing arts of Kerala like Kathakali, Kalaripayattu, Koodiyattom, Thullal and many dance forms is a blessing to Kerala_tourism.

For those who want to move the divine way has Kerala pilgrimage tourism, which includes a demanding journey through thick forests to Sabarimala or Agastyarkoodom. The society of Kerala is among the rapidly progressing and most literate societies in India. Much achievement has made in Information Technology, Infrastructure and manpower development and ranked best in socio-political index.

The traditional practice of natural remedies for diseases, which is now confined to the tribal people and a few rural folks, is also rejuvenating. The people here knew the power of different herbs to cure diseases of varying kinds.

The food and recipes of Kerala are also rapidly gaining access to dining tables around the world.

Kerala_tourism can safely blow horns for Kerala as God’s own country. Be it healthcare, relaxing in a serene environment or having adventure in mountain biking. Kerala tourism can offer everything a visitor wants.

The Future of the Indian Tourism Industry

Posted by | Posted in Travel | Posted on 13-02-2012

India is the land of culture and heritage. Many of the people are attracted by its beauty in their culture to visit this place. The government of India is also supporting the growth of the tourism industry in the country.

The tourist’s spots in India are known for its diversity. The beauty and authenticity of each state of the country is exhibiting to the tourists. You will get a different experience while visiting each place in the country. The northern India is famous for its hill stations and the southern India for the ancient temple, sculptures, etc.

The captivating beauty of the places in India is making it brighter in the tourism maps. During the recent years there has been a great increase in the number of tourist in India. Now the country is listed in the top ten tourist’s places in the world.

The support from the government is nourishing the tourism industry in the country. The central government and the state government of the respective states are giving their complete support and grants to protect the monuments and sculptures. With improve travel and accommodation facilities more tourists will be visiting the country in the next days.

The support of the private sector industries like aviation, medical tourism, hotels, transportation also has complemented the growth. India hosted the Common wealth Games this year which has also increased the visitors to the country. The pioneer works of the people in the Asian games had polished India’s face to the world. The hospitality and the generosity of the people will attract the tourists.

Review about Rajasthan Fairs and Festivals

Posted by | Posted in Holidays & Vacations, Travel | Posted on 01-02-2012

Experience the vibrant Fairs and Festivals of Rajasthan during your royal journey aboard the Palace on Wheels. As the Palace on Wheels chugs through the heart of Rajasthan in the kind of royal style that only the Maharajas of yesteryear could have enjoyed, you not only experience the romance of old-fashioned rail travel, but also get to experience the splendid architecture, colourful bazaars, the rich culture, the myriad topography of the Thar Desert, the vibrant people and colourful fairs and festivals of Rajasthan.

Rajasthan is a vibrant, exotic state in India where tradition and royal glory meet in a riot of colors against the vast backdrop of sand and desert. Referred to as the Desert Jewel of India, Rajasthan shimmers with even more vibrancy during the time of its colourful fairs and festivals. The desert glitters with the colors of joyous celebration and gay abandon with every fair and festival of Rajasthan. There is a celebration for every religious occasion, every change of season and every harvest, all invariably a reflection of the genius of their arts and crafts and their ascetic refinement.

In fact, celebrations occur almost round the year and are a splendid opportunity for tourists to gain an insight into the life of the Rajasthan during their travel. Other than the traditional fairs, recently established festivals which involve elephants, camel races, dance and music have been specially organised for tourists. Among the better known fairs and festivals of Rajasthan are:

Pushkar Fair, Pushkar (November): The well-known and marked with largest participation of all the festivals of Rajasthan, Pushkar is an important pilgrimage as well as the venue of a mammoth cattle fair. Bazaars, auctions, music and sports are highlight of this event.

Desert Festival, Jaisalmer (Jan-Feb.): One of the most popular among the festivals of Rajasthan, the Jaisalmer Desert festival is a journey into the heart of the Rajasthan desert, the golden city of Jaisalmer. A true show on the sands which attracts even the much traveled visitor. Folk performers like musicians, ballad singers, snake charmers, and puppeteers all exhibit their traditional skills. There are exciting camel dances, camel acrobatics, camel races, and camel polo, competitions for the best decorated camel, tug-of-war between musclemen, a turban tying competition and a Mr. Desert contest. The culmination is a sound and light spectacle on a moonlit night amidst sand dunes.

Elephant Festival, Jaipur (March-April): A festival to celebrate Holi, this is a great occasion for the visitor to watch several elephant sports and also play this festival of colours. A show is organised with the elephants turning out in their best finery.

Gangaur Festival (March-April): A festival devoted to Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. It is time for young girls to dress up in their finery and pray for grooms of their choice while the married women pray for the well-being of their husbands. This 18-day festival is laced with various activities and culminates in a grand procession marking the arrival of Shiva to escort his bride home.

 Marwar Festival, Jodhpur (October): A festival devoted mainly to the music and dance of the Marwar region. This is a festival that allows the visitor to understand and enjoy the folk traditions of this part of the state. Organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan, the Marwar Festival was originally known as the Maand Festival. Maand is a classical style of folk music centered on the romantic life style of Rajasthan’s rulers, and Maand Raag recreates the old world charm and graceful dances of the desert. A must for those interested in folk music during their holidays in Rajasthan.

Camel Festival, Bikaner (January): An enchanting desert city which comes alive with music and dance during the famed Camel Festival of Bikaner. It is fast gaining popularity as the visitor finds an opportunity to see some unusual folk performances, camel, race camel dance etc.

 Teej Festival, Jaipur (July-August): A festival to mark the advent of monsoon. Processions, women dressed in bright colours and a lot of merriment prevails during Teej. Essentially a women’s festival, it is interesting to watch them enjoying in groups and at various bazaars where they turn up to shop in all their finery.

Nagaur Fair, Nagaur (Jan-Feb.): Essentially an animal fair, it provides an opportunity to participate in some of the local sports. Situated half way between Bikaner and Jodhpur, Nagaur awakens with the thronging of cattle, horses and camels accompanied by their colorfully turbaned owners. There is earnest bargaining between owners and buyers, and plenty of fun and festivity. Games, tug-of-war contests, camel rac

es and strains of ballads create a joyful atmosphere with the setting sun in the background.

Baneshwar Fair, Baneshwar (Jan-Feb.): A religious festival with simple and traditional rituals. This fair is the centre of attraction of a large number of tribals from the neighboring states of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat who join their brethren from Rajasthan in offering prayers to Lord Shiva.

 Mewar Festival, Udaipur (March-April): A festival to welcome the spring season. There is song,  dance, processions, devotional music and fireworks where almost everybody participates. Not to be missed during your Rajasthan tour and travel.

Urs Ajmer Sharif, Ajmer (According to Lunar Calendar): Held in the memory of the revered Sufi Saint Khawaja Moinuddin Chisti, it is an occasion for thousands of believers to congregate at the shrine and offer their prayers. All of Ajmer seems to take on a festive air and several programmes are organised to mark the festival.

Summer Festival, Mount Abu (June): Organised in the only hill station of Rajasthan, this is the coldest place at this time of the year. Folk dances and a general atmosphere of gaiety prevails in this tiny hill resort and the tourist has ample time to relax and enjoy himself.

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