Kashmir
'Paradise on Earth'- as it was called by the Mughals, Kashmir is truly one of the most spectacular creations of nature. Set amidst 2 mountain ranges, the Himalayas and Pir Panjal, Kashmir offers 'Shikaras' or Houseboats in the magnificent Dal Lake, skiing in Gulmarg, cascading fountains, a splendid show of flowerbeds in the Mughal Gardens and much more.

Manali
If you want a breathtaking view of Himalayan snow capped peaks, Manali is a trekker's heaven. Also called the 'Switzerland of India', Manali is full of densely wooded slopes with the meandering River Beas. The Ski slopes in Solang valley, peaceful Monasteries and a busy marketplace flooded with Tibetan trinkets make it a favorite holiday destination.

Shimla
Shimla is arguably the most popular hill station of India. Resting in the Great Himalayas at almost 7000 ft and draped in thick pine forests, it was called "Queen of the Hills". Being a tourist friendly city, it offers everything from Temples and Churches, restaurants and bars, to adventurous ski slopes at Kufri and Narkanda and a great open air shopping Mall.

Amritsar
Literally meaning 'The Lake of the Holy Nectar', the sublime beauty of Amritsar is a sight to behold! It is home to the Harmandir Sahib, world famous as the Golden Temple. Built in the 16th century, the architecture of this sacred Temple of the Sikhs (Gurudwara) represents a harmonious evolution of both Hindu and Muslim styles in Indian society.

Chandigarh
Planned by the famous French architect Le Corbusier in the 1950's, Chandigarh is an example to modern India. Among the most famous sights in the city are the Botanical Gardens, Bamboo Valley, Rock Garden that displays unique art objects made from industrial and urban waste and the Sukhna Lake which hosts a sanctuary of flora and fauna.

Agra
Situated at the banks of the River Yamuna, Agra is home to one of the 7 wonders of the world- the Taj Mahal. Built in the finest white marble, this perfectly symmetrical monument is an eternal symbol of love. Agra exudes royal magnificence with monuments like Red Fort and Fatehpur Sikri, boutiques of precious gems, ornamental paintings, and its creamy Mughlai cuisine.

Delhi
Delhi, or Dilli as it is lovingly called is the melting pot of India. India Gate- the WW-I memorial arch, Qutub Minar- a 12th century Turkish minaret, Lotus Temple- the Baha'i place of worship, Akshar Dham- recent 100 acre temple complex showcasing Indian cultural history, Jantar Mantar- the astronomical observatory of the 1700's, Red Fort and Old Fort are only some of the most fascinating places to see!

Rajasthan
Sand dunes, Camel Safaris, Forts seeped in legend, Palaces of royal heritage, vibrant folk music and dance set amidst the Aravalis- India's oldest mountain range-that's Rajasthan for you. Jaipur- the Pink City, Udaipur- the city of Lakes and Palaces, Mt Abu- Hill Station of the Gods, Ranthambhore Wildlife Tiger Trail and Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary make a memorable trip.

Jaipur
The capital of Rajasthan, also known as the 'Pink City' offers the tourist a marvelous taste of Rajput history. Among the best places to see are the Amer Fort, Hawa mahal or the 'Palace of Winds' and the City Palace. Keep one night for a folk music and dance performance with a fabulous Dal-Bati-Choorma dinner prepared by royal chefs.

Ranthambore Wildlife Sanctuary
Set in the middle of Rajasthan, the dense and dry Ranthambhore Wildlife Sanctuary is widely popular with the tourists for its (relatively) large tiger population. It started as a national forest reserve under Project Tiger in 1972. In a 4- hour Jeep Safari, one can spot a variety of Deer, Gazelles and Boars, countless rare and colorful birds, reptiles and if you're lucky- Tigers.

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
Bharatpur is a Bird Watcher's heaven from August- November. Home to more than 300 species of birds, Bharatpur also plays host to numerous migratory birds also. Several species of Cranes, Pelicans, Wagtails, Buntings and Larks come from faraway lands of Siberia and Central Asia and spend their winters in the small sanctuary of Bharatpur.

Udaipur
The most romantic city of Rajasthan, Udaipur is fondly known as 'The City of Lakes', and 'The Venice of the East', and 'The Jewel of Mewar' and… Some enchanting sights that make it a beloved city are its vibrant festivals, City Palace towering over Lake Pichola, Lake Palace set on Jag Niwas Island, Fateh Sagar Lake and Saheliyon ki Bari (Girlfriends' Garden!) which is an enchanting garden meant to be the 'hang out' place for ladies of the royal household!

Ajmer
Amazing Ajmer is surrounded on all sides by the spectacular Aravalis- the oldest mountain range in India. Pushkar is famous for the Pushkar Lake, the annual Cattle fair and Brahma's only temple in the world. Dargah Shareef of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, situated at the foot of the Taragarh hill, is an extremely sacred pilgrimage for Muslims.

Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer lies in the heart of the Thar Desert. Standing on a ridge of yellowish sandstone, crowned by a Fort, a Palace and several ornate temples, it has been nicknamed 'The Golden City'. A famous movie- Sonar Killa (The Golden Fortress) has been filmed and based on the Jaisalmer fort. Don't miss the collosal mansions of the royal families- Patwon Ki Haveli, Salim Singh Ki Haveli, Nathmal-Ki Haveli.

Mt Abu
Mt Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan and the highest peak in the Aravali mountain range, is often called 'an oasis in the desert', as its heights are home to rivers, lakes, waterfalls and evergreen forests, the most famous of which is the Nakki Lake. It is also famous for its stunning, white marble Dilwara Temples. Legend says that the entire pantheon of 350 million Hindu gods and goddesses visit Mt Abu!

Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad is famous as the city of Ahmed Shah, the medieval ruler of Gujarat and the city of Mahatma Gandhi, who led India's freedom struggle. The city lies along the banks of River Sabarmati, after which Gandhi ji's Ashram is reverentially named. Places to see include the Hindu Akshardham and Iskon temple, Hatheesing Jain temple, Mosques of Ahmed Shah and Rani Roopmati, Treehill Garden, Tribal Musuem and Calico museum.

Dwarka
Revealed by marine excavations and still drenched in myth and legend, the city of Dwarka is said to be the Kingdom of Lord Krishna. The Dwarkadish Temple (or Jagat Mandir) intricately carved from top to bottom, Sharda Peeth- an educational 'Matha' established by Guru Shankarcharya and Nageshwar Mahadev- an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva draw millions of Pilgrims every year.

Lucknow
Best known for its courtly manners, fine cuisine, elegant music and dance, beautiful gardens and the Lucknowi Chikan style of embroidery, it is also one of the top ten fastest growing non-major-metropolitan cities of India. Monuments of importance are the Bara Imaambara with the famous Bhool Bhulaiya Labyrinth, Chota Imaambara and The Residency. Also immensely famous is the culinary delight that is Lucknow- its own distinct Nawabi cuisine that offers mouthwatering Rice Biryanis, Kebabs and Herb flavored Breads.

Varanasi
"… older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together." That's Varanasi, in the words of mark Twain. Also known as Benaras or Kashi, it is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities of the world. Prominent philosophers, seers, writers and musicians hail from Varanasi. Floating Betel Leaf Lamps at Ganga Ghat at dawn can be a timeless experience.

Haridwar
Haridwar, literally- Gateway to God, is full of temples, ashrams and sites of mythological heritage. It is said that a dip here in the holy waters of River Ganga, one can wash off one's sins! Don't miss the evening arti with floating lamps at Har Ki Pauri, go to and go to Shivpuri for an exciting River Rafting trip.

Musoorie
This little green Hill Station at the foothills of the Himalayan mountain range is a favourite getaway for honeymoon couples. Lake Mist and Kempty Falls are great romantic picnic spots, as is the nature walk at Camel's Back Road and a visit to St Mary's- the oldest Himalayan Church. Enjoy a memorable ropeway ride up to Gun Hill and relax in the fragrance of flowers in the Municipal Garden.

Nainital
The heart of Nainital's exquisite beauty is the Naini Lake, where one can go Yachting, Kayaking, Canoeing and Boating. Naina Peak sitting at over 2600 m (8500 ft) commands a breathtaking view of the snow capped Himalayas. Snow View, a popular vantage point can be reached on foot, on ponies, or Ropeway. Don't forget your binoculars!

Jim Corbett National Park
The first wildlife reserve of India established in 1936 today stands in honor of Jim Corbett, the legendary hunter-turned- conservationist known for hunting man-eating tigers of the region and as the site of Project Tiger. One can find lodge accommodation within the forest, which is an exciting experience in itself and spot tigers, elephants, deer, flying foxes and countless species of birds.

Khajuraho
A quaint village in heart of Madhya Padesh, the Khajuraho group of monuments is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations of India. Its intricately carved temples depict themes of daily life and also include erotic sculptures. Carved on the outside of the temple walls, they indicate that worldly desires must be left behind to enter the spiritual realm.

Mumbai
Mumbai, formerly Bombay, is the financial and entertainment capital of India. Apart from important buildings such as Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), it is home to Bollywood, India's film and TV industry. The Gateway of India Arch, Chowpatty beach and a boat ride to Elephanta caves will make a fabulous trip.

Ajanta Ellora
Breathing life into stone, the hand- carved rock sculptures of Ajanta and Ellora (near Aurangabad in Maharashtra) are a sight to behold. Estimated to date back to 200 AD, these 30-odd caves- fine specimens of Budhhist architectural heritage- depict the Buddhist way of life and teachings of Guatam Budhha.

Goa
Goa- the smallest state with the largest quotient of fun! Known for its golden beaches, cheap liquor, party life and rich tropical biodiversity, Goa stands among the most popular international tourist hot spots. Kalangute beach, Dona Paula beach, Fort Aguada, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and Portuguese churches are some must- see places.

Hyderabad
Intensely famous for Hyderabadi Pearls and Nizami Rice Biryani, this fifth largest cosmopolitan city of India is located in the heart of the Deccan Plateau. Its signature monument Char Minar, the light & sound show at Golconda Fort, royal lakes and gardens, a 400 year- old history and a splendid climate attract tourists all year round.

Cochin
Cochin, the Queen of the Arabian Sea is flanked by Western Ghats on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west, still carrying the air of the bygone Portuguese era. A boat ride through the backwaters makes an unforgettable experience. Great places to visit are Kochi and Cherai beaches, Fort Kochi, St. Francis Church, Vasco house and The Cochin Cultural Center for a splendid Kathakali dance performance.

Bangalore
Renamed Bengaluru ("place of baked beans") after a legend of an old woman feeding baked beans to a lost, hungry king, this fastest growing cosmopolitan city is the IT industry's favorite "byte basket" of India. Lush with gardens, lakes, swanky hotels and temples, some impressive places are Tipu Sultan's Fort & Palace, Lal bagh and ISKCON temple.

Mysore
The Imperial City of Palaces, Mysore traces its history back to a mythical past, when Goddess Chamundeshwari of Chamundi Hills killed the wicked buffalo-headed demon, Mahishasura. The Mysore Palace, Brindavan Gardens and Krishnaraja Sagar Dam make up the Great Sights. Mysore is famous for carved sandalwood handicrafts and incense.

Ooty
Udhagamandalam, or simply Ooty, is a charming hill station in South India's Neelgiri range, covered in miles of tea gardens. Must on the list are Ooty lake, Kalhatty Falls, Botanical Gardens and Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary. If you're a trekker, you're in paradise as trekking routes sprout out in all directions.

Chennai
Chennai is home to the 13 km- long Marina Beach- the second longest beach in the world. Some unique excursions are conducted from Chennai to Mahabalipuram (famous for rock cut temples from the 9th century), Crocodile Bank (sanctuary of 2400 reptiles) and Thanjavur (famous for Tanjore paintings embellished with gold and gems).

Madurai
Situated on the banks of river Vaigai with history dating back to the 6th century, Madurai is considered as an antique city of India. The Meenakshi Sundereswarar Temple, Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal and Azhagar Kovil are ancient architectural wonders. Ballads, folk dances, dramas and songs with a rich cultural heritage are very popular.

Kerala
Get ready for a magical experience in 'God's Own Country', cruising on a Houseboat through the enchanting backwaters of Kerala and rejuvenate yourself with ayurvedic massages. Dotted with wooden palaces hiding in lush coconut groves and palm trees, Kerala also has unique flora and fauna.

Allepey
Fondly called the Venice of the East, Alleppey is famous for its colorful boat races, houseboat holidays, beaches, marine and coir products. This is a place to unwind as you lay on a floating Houseboat, gaze up at the star- lit sky and listen to silent splashes of the backwaters.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Testimony to nature's splendor, Periyar Wildlife sanctuary is clothed in dense, evergreen forests. Home to herds of elephants, sambhars, tigers, gaurs, macaques, langoors and over 320 species of birds, Periyar lake inside the sanctuary also serves as their play station. Guided nature walks and adventure camps make a wildly exciting visit!

Kanyakumari
Kanyakumari is the southernmost tip of the India peninsula. Splashed on by the Indian Ocean, Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea, Kanyakumari bestows a breathtaking view. A temple dedicated to the youthful form of "Shakti" or female energy (Mother Goddess) is located on the sea shore.

Puri
A long, golden beach and the golden blessings of Lord Jagannath- that's Puri in one breath. World famous Jagannath Temple is located here and the Rath Yatra (or the Festival of Chariot Procession) is conducted typically in July. Situated on the coast of the Bay of Bengal, it is a popular beach resort with stunning views of the Sunrise and Sunset from the beaches.

Konark
This small, humble town in Orissa is home to the majestic Sun Temple of the 13th century, which is also a World Heritage Site. In the words of Rabindranath Tagore, Konark is a place where "the language of stone surpasses the language of man". Konark is also home to an annual dance festival dedicated to classical dance forms, including Odissi from the state of Orissa.

Kolkata
One of the 4 metropolitan cities of India, Kolkata- formerly Calcutta served as the capital of the country under the British Raj until 1911. Especially known for its literary, artistic and revolutionary heritage, Kolkata has developed a community culture of its own, assimilating Gothic, Baroque, Roman, Oriental and Indo-Islamic impressions. If you have a really sweet tooth, Kolkata will be nothing short of paradise for you!

Darjeeling
A charming little hill station in the Shivalik ranges of the Eastern Himalayas, Darjeeling is world- famous for its fragrant teas and spectacular views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. The Rangit Valley Ropeway, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Buddhist Monasteries and observation point- Tiger Hill make it a great tourist spot and also a launch pad to explore the beauty of Sikkim.

Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary
Kaziranga, a World Heritage Site is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in India. Located in the state of Assam, it is the largest natural habitat for Indian single horned Rhinoceros. With a diverse variety of flora and fauna, Kaziranga can be explored on Elephant back or in an open Jeep.

Sikkim
"Small, but Beautiful" says Sikkim's Tourism and it holds true in every sense. From the ancient Rumtek Monastery and the marvelous Tsomgo lake in cozy capital Gangtok to the scintillating views of the Kanchenjunga in quaint little Pelling, Sikkim is a place of beauty. Try steamed or fried 'momos' and a helicopter ride around the mountain peaks- both equally divine experiences!

Andamans
A group of 600 islands floating like emeralds in the Arabian Sea, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a tourist's delight. Havelock is the most visited of the islands while Neil Island is more silent and serene. Capital Port Blair commands special mention for its unique flora and fauna. Surfing, snorkeling, sun bathing, or just doing nothing are good options in these pristine islands.

Lakshadweep
A group of beautiful islands, tourism in Lakshadweep has recently been developing. The land of lagoons, Lakshadweep's best islands are Kavaratti, Kalpeni, and Agatti island. Full of water sports facilities, secluded tourist huts and even a few uninhabited islands (!), Lakshadweep is increasingly becoming a Honeymoon hot spot.