Tours India

1.Tourist Attractions in India
1. Kolkata
2. Dehradun
3. Lucknow
4. Agartala

5. Chennai6.Himalaya
7. Jaipur
8. Chandigarh
9. Bhubaneswar
10. Kohima
12. Shillong
13. Imphal
14. Mumbai
15. Bhopal
16. Thiruvananthapuram
17. Bangalore
18. Ranchi
19. Jammu (Winter capital)
20. Srinagar (Summer capita
21. Shimla
22.Taj Mahal
23. Gandhinagar
 24.Panaji
25. Raipur
26. Patna
27. Dispur
28. Itanagar
29. Hyderabad

Hyderabad

 Location : On The Deccan Plateau and Musi River, Andhra Pradesh
Area : 260 Sq. Km.
Attractions : Charminar, Hyderabadi Cuisine and Pearl Bazaar


Ideal Time to Visit : Throughout the year

Hyderabad, Pride of Deccan
Hyderabad is the capital city of Andhra Pradesh and is the fifth largest city in India. This bustling city is located on the Deccan plateau and the Musi river about 650 m above the sea level. The landscape of Hyderabad is quite varied with imposing hills, tanks, forests, and rock formations.
This cosmopolitan city boasts of a variety of rich cultures. There are many attractions in and around the city, offered by the tourism department of Hyderabad. Hyderabad tourism presents the majestic past of this glorious city along with the new evolving city, the beautiful old monuments, lakes, beaches and temples all add to the exuberant culture of the Hyderabad.

The History of Hyderabad
Hyderabad's history starts with emergence of the Qutub Shahi dynasty. The city was won by Quli Qutub in 1512 and established the fortress city of Golconda. But due to certain inadequacies he left it and established the new city of Charminar as his capital. This beautiful and colorful city attracted the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Thus, he took over Golconda after a long struggle in 1687. But as his empire fell, Hyderabad started loosing its charm. It disintegrated and the viceroy, Asaf Jah-I declared himself the Nizam. He established the Deccan region. The city later regained its glory, in the reign of successive Nizams of the Asaf Jah dynasty. Finally, it became a part of the Indian Union in 1948.


Attractions In Hyderabad
Hyderabad is known as the city of Pearls, having a variety of tourist attractions. There are heritage monuments, lakes, parks, gardens, resorts, museums and scrumptious cuisine that lures tourists. Apart from these, Hyderabad is also a major shopping destination.
The city of Hyderabad is almost 400 hundred years old and attracts tourists with its blend of rich cultures. It is known for its interesting diamond markets, glass embedded bangles and beautiful saris.
Monumental Attractions
There are many monuments of significance situated here. One of the major historical sites worth visiting is the Charminar, a majestic structure famous for its architectural excellence. It is situated in the heart of the city and is an important landmark in Hyderabad Tourism. Then, there is the Mecca Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India accommodating upto 10,000 people. It is located just nearby the Charminar.
Another travel attraction here is the Golconda Fort , a 16th century fortress. It is situated on the western outskirts of Hyderabad city. This fort is known as the center for diamonds, where there are diamond mines in the nearby areas. It is said that the famous Kohinoor originally belonged to Golconda. Thus, it one of the must visit places in Hyderabad. Then, there is the Hussain Sagar lake. It is a large man-made lake, set amidst the city. It was constructed in 1562 AD and is the connecting point of the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad.

Itanagar

Altitude    750 m above sea level
Language    Bengali, Assamese, local dialects, English
Best time to visit    October to April
STD Code    0360
LOCATION
The capital of Arunachal Pradesh, Itanagar is a well-planned town. Together with the town of Naharlagun, situated about 10 km away, it forms the state's administrative hub. Cradled between two hills, the Governor's residence on one and a Buddhist temple on the other, many of the buildings in Itanagar are new, light, wooden-framed and earthquake-proof structures. Consecrated by the Dalai Lama, the Buddhist temple, a beautiful yellow-roofed shrine, reflects the extensive Tibetan influence and provides good views of Itanagar and the surrounding countryside.


HISTORY
Arunachal Pradesh finds mention in the Kalika Purana and in the epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana. It is believed that sage Vyas meditated here. Itanagar was called Mayapur during the reign of the Jiti Dynasty that ruled the region in the 11th century. Even during the reign of the Jiti kings, Mayapur was the capital city. The magnificent Ita Fort (ita, brick), dating back to the 14th-15th century, is believed to have been built by King Ramachandra.
Tour to Itanagar
Itanagar, the ‘Land of Dawnlit Mountains’ is set on the top of low flat hills spreading over an area of 2500 acres. Surrounded with the serene atmosphere and natural flora and fauna it is a city that breathes of natural beauty. The ruin of the old palace adds to the mystical aura of Itanagar. Its ancient monuments studied by historians has often led Itanagar to be identified with the 11th century capital of Mayapur which was under the Jitari dynasty. Itanagar is divided into two parts each set apart by 10kms, the other named as Naharlagun.
Since 20th April 1974, Itanagar has been the capital of Arunachal Pradesh. Set about 350 meters above sea level, Itanagar can be only reached through air. The nearest airport is in Lilabari, Assam, which is only 67 kms from Itanagar. There are regular flights from Kolkata to Lilabari. Taxi and bus services are available that plys to Itanagar. Itanagar is connected to major towns of the North East regions such as Agartala, Aizwal, Guwahati, Imphal,kohima and Shillong.
Tibetian culture dominates the region. Consecrated by Dalai Lama as a holy place, the Buddhist temple, a beautiful yellow roofed shrine is a place of tourist attraction.
About 6 kms away from Itanagar is the beautiful Ganga Lake or the Gyakar Sinyi which serves as a beautiful getaway for a day. The green vegetation, the serene lake, the orchids and tree ferns provide a beautiful atmosphere for a day out.
Buddhist Temple, Ganga Sekhi Lake, Pachin River, Sengkhi Hydel Project, Polo Park, Zoo are the other attractions of the city
The Museum that gives the microcosmic view of the land is very well defined by the Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum. It exhibits Arunachal Pradesh’s unique handicrafts, woodcarvings, cane goods, textiles, archeological discoveries and musical instruments. It has a well-equipped library too.
Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh epitomizes the largest North Eastern State by flaunting its natural beauty and the Tibetan culture that dominates the region. Log on to northeastindiatravel.com to know about the Itanagar.

Dispur

Location : 10 kms from Guwahati on Guwahati-Shillong Route, Assam
Importance : Capital city of Assam
Popular As : Auction Market of Classic Tea
Best Time To Visit : October to May

Introducing Dispur
Dispur, the capital city of north-eastern state of Assam is also the main suburb of the city of Guwahati. With the birth of a new separate state of Meghalaya in 1975, the capital had been shifted from Shillong to Dispur. A small city with a population of around two thousand, Dispur is the central point to the state of Assam and has a lot to offer in sightseeing for common tourists and nature enthusiast. Dispur is a well-planned city and bestowed with natural wonders like hills, grassy countryside and pollution free environment that enthrall the tourists a lot. Nature has also blessed the city with bushy forests and the shimmering rivers. Dispur is also a major producer of the tea, some of the famous varieties are CTC or Crush, Curl Tea and Tear tea. Tourists who visit the city always carry along the bag of tea as a souvenior. So, visit this small capital city of Dispur on your next holiday and enjoy a peaceful vacation in the lap of the mother nature.
How to Reach Dispur
By Air : Guwahati international airport is the main airport which is 18 km east of the city centre. Flights of Indian Airlines, Air Deccan and Jet Airways are available to and from Guwahati to major cities of India like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and Chennai. Taxis and buses are available from the airport to the city. You may also take ASTC's Rhino City Bus Service that runs from the airport to city centre.

Helicopter Sevices : Helicopter Services are available from Guwahati to Shillong, Tura and Itanagar.

By Train : Guwahati railway station is the major railhead, which is also the headquarters of the North-East Frontier Railway. A number of mails, express and superfast trains are available to Guwahati from rest of the country. Auto-rickshaws and taxis ply from the railway station to various parts of the city.

By Road : National Highways 31, 37, 40 and 52 connect Dispur with the other cities of India. State Transport buses of Assam government and private buses ply from Dispur to other cities of North-eastern India. Distances of some of important places from Dispur are : Shillong (110 km), Tura (185 km) and Tezpur (191 km).
Local Transport : Tourist taxis and auto-rickshaws are the main modes of local transport. Auto-rickshaws are easily available throughout the city, cycle rickshaws and local buses are also available in Guwahati.
Places Where You Can Stay
Plenty of accommodation options are available in Dispur, ranging from deluxe to budget hotels. Most popular hotels include Hotel Brahmputra Ashok, Hotel Belle Vue, Hotel Landmark, Hotel Dynasty, Hotel Raj Mahal, Hotel Nandan and Hotel Vishwaratna.

Tourist Attractions in Dispur
Dispur is a famous place for tourists, who visit the city to see the lifestyle of tribal and unconnected people. The mighty Brahmaputra river which flows through the city is a major attraction and known for its pristine beauty, fast current and thrilling rapids. Tea is another highlight of Dispur, in fact, a visitor to the city leave with at least a classic Dispur city made tea bag.

Culture of Dispur : Dispur is famous cultural hot spot for the local people and for visiting tourists as well. The city of Dispur encompasses its own unique form of dancing forms called Husari and Bihunas. These two dancing formats are considered the essential component of the Dispur culture and attract people from far and wide to take part
Tourist Attractions Around Dispur
Guwahati : Situated 10 kms from Dispur, Guwahati is a big commercial town and home to a number of tourist attractions. Some of the major attractions of the city include Kamakhya Temple, Bhubneshwari Temple, Umananda Temple, Bashishta Ashram, Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, Assam State Museum, Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden etc. Guwahati is also the major railhead close to Dispur and connected with all important cities of India.
Hajo : Hajo is 42 kms from Dispur and known for important shrines of three different faith namely Hinduism, Muslim and Buddhism. For last several centuries these faiths coexisting here that's why Hajo is also called the cultural melting point of the state of Assam.

Patna

FACTS & FIGURES
Language    Hindi, Urdu, Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Magahi
Best time to visit    October to February
STD Code    0612

LOCATION
Located on the southern bank of the Ganges (also Ganga), Patna is the capital of the northern state of Bihar. It is an old city steeped in history. The present-day Patna is, however, crowded and polluted. The Mahatma Gandhi Setu, one of the longest bridges in the world at 7.5 km, crosses the Ganges 5 km west of the city center.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Patna is hot and humid in summer and cold in winters. Temperature varies from a maximum of 43°C in summer to a minimum of around 5°C in the winters. Relative humidity can go up to 100% during summer. It receives medium to heavy rainfall in the monsoon.

HISTORY
The history of Patna starts from the year 493 BC when Ajatshatru, the king of Magadh, fortified a small village Pataligrama, which latter came to be known as Pataliputra. Located on the high bank of the river Ganges, the city was established by the son of Ajatshatru, Udayi. In the years that followed, the city saw many dynasties that ruled the Indian subcontinent from there. Pataliputra reached its pinnacle of glory under the Mauryas and became one of the most important capital cities. Patna became the capital of Bihar when India attained independence in 1947.

TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS
Patna has many sites of historical importance that can be visited.
The Khuda Baksh Oriental Library is a treasure trove of medieval manuscripts. It is famous for its rare collection of Arabic and Persian manuscripts, including volumes saved during the sacking of the Moorish University of Cordova.
Patna Museum is noted for its collection of statues and the world's oldest fossilized tree, 16 m high and 200 million years old.
Close to the museum is Golghar, the 29-m-high beehive-shaped structure constructed in 1786 following a terrible famine.
Patna Cemetery is a historically important European monument situated in what was once a haveli (now a hospital). The cemetery is noted for an obelisk that was erected to mark the cold-blooded murder of 47 Englishmen by Samru in 1763. A short distance away from the cemetery is Padri-ki-Haveli, now a Catholic church with an imposing façade.
The remains of Pataliputra, as well as the ancient capital of Ajatshatru and Ashoka have been uncovered at Kumhrar. A few large pillars and the foundations of a Buddhist monastery, known as Anand, are all that remain now.
At the eastern end of the city, in the Chowk area of old Patna stands the Har Mandir, one of the holiest Sikh shrines. Built of white marble by Ranjit Singh, it marks the place where Gobind Singh, the 10th and last of the Sikh gurus, was born in 1660.
One can still see Agam Kuan (the fathomless well), which was part of Ashoka's hell for prisoners. The famous Mahendru Ghat in today's Patna is the reminder of Mahendru (Ashoka's brother) who had sailed from here to preach Buddhism in Ceylon.
PLACES AROUND PATNA
Vaishali, the birthplace of Mahavira, seat of the first republic in the world, and the place where Buddha gave his last sermon, is a one-hour drive from Patna. It has an Ashoka pillar, a few stupas and a small museum.
Founded in the 5th century BC, Nalanda is 90 km away from Patna. It gave the world one of the earliest great universities. The extensive remains today include the Great Stupa, an archeological museum, and Xuan Memorial Hall, built as a peace pagoda by the Chinese.

Raipur

Tourist attractions in Raipur
Raipur is a rich repository of monuments and ancient traditions that are of national, historical and anthropological importance. The tribal traditions so unique to the land can still be felt at the rural areas of Raipur. However, with industrialization and widespread migration from the neighboring states, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, is slowly coming under the influence f a progressive society. Explore the myriad culture of Raipur upon your tour to Raipur.
While on a tour to Raipur visit its attractive tourist destinations. Some of the famous destinations which cannot be missed include the Champakeshwara Mahadeva and the excavated site at Shripur/Sirpur.
The temple sites of Lakshama and Gandhesheshwara are a must visit for their exceptional architectural style. The forest village of Turturiya with its sculptured pillars, stupas and bathing ghats are worth visiting on Raipur travel, India
Temples at Rajim are of great tourist importance and a must see on your tour to Raipur. Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary, Sita Nadi Sanctuary, Udanti Sanctuary are the places which should come under tour itinerary to Raipur. On your tour to Raipur, witness some of the fascinating traditional tribal dance and musical and drama forms such as Raut Nacha, Dewar Nacha, Panthi & Soowa, Padki and Pandwani.



How To Reach
Raipur is well linked to other cities, towns and villages in Chhattisgarh and the main cities in other Indian states by air, rail and road. Thus, you can also take a bus to the Hirakud Dam, Puri and other well-known tourist
 destinations in Orissa, on your tour to Raipur

City Info
Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh, is where Mahanadi River originates and flows through the state of Chhattisgarh before finding its way to the Bay of Bengal. Tour to Raipur will make you accustomed with the emerging industrial city with imprints of mining and agricultural still evident on its soil. The plains of Raipur, Chhattisgarh, are lush and verdant with paddy fields. Raipur is dotted with good number of hotels which provide great facilities and impeccable services. Shopping in Raipur can be an interesting fare for the travelers.

Panaji

Fast Facts
Location : Goa
Attractions : Altinho Hill, Bishop's Palace (Altinho), Boca de Vaca Spring, Mahalaxmi Temple, Kala Academy, Idalcao Palace, Immaculate Conception Church, Fontainhas etc.
Best Time To Visit : November to February

Introducing Panaji
When Old Goa grew unhygenic and was struck with disease and death, the Portuguese decided to shift their capital to Panaji. They pulled down the imposing structures of Old Goa and carried the stones to Panaji, where they set up several impressive structure. That was how Panaji, situated on the left banks of Mandovi
river, became the capital of Goa in the year 1843.
Today, the Portuguese heritage of the city will present itself before you as you make your way through the remarkably well preserved narrow winding streets, old houses with overhanging balconies and numerous small cafes and bars. You will also get the Portuguese touch in dress and lifestyle of the local people
Other than exploring the Portuguese legacy, Panaji will also throw open for you numerous other options to enjoy yourself. It is the cultural capital of the state and as such provides you an opportunity to stir your soul
with performances of local artists. Also, since the city of Panaji is netted, as if in a spider's net, with the network of waterways, river cruises are quiet an activity to enjoy. At one point of time, Panaji was the fishermen's habitat and hence the fish market of the town provides a visual impact in itself. The colourful fishes caught by the fishermen are sold here.

How to Reach
By Air : Nearest airport is located at Dabolim, at a distance of 32 kms. Indian Airlines and private operators offer flights for the major cities of India like Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. From the airport you have to take the road journey to reach Panaji.
By Train : Vasco-da-Gama (35 kms) is the nearest major rail head. Trains for the important towns and cities of India are available from Vasco-da-Gama. To get to Vasco-da-Gama from Panaji you can either go via the Dona Paula ferry or the Agassaim-Cortalim ferry.
By Bus : There are several private companies which offer luxury, air-conditioned buses from Panaji to Mumbai. Goa, Maharashtra and Karnataka State Transport Corporation operate buses for Panaji. Daily buses are available from Panaji to Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore and Mangalore. The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) also run buses from Panaji to Bijapur, Badami and Shimoga.

By Local Ferry : One of the joys of the travelling around Panaji are the ferries across the rivers. Ferries ply between Panjim and Betim, Ribander and Chorai Island from 7 am to 7 pm.

Tourist Attractions in Panaji
Altinho : Altinho (pronounced as Aal-teenyu) is a hill located at the centre of the Panji, soaring high from the river and sea fronts. Originally Altinho was a long ridge called Oiteiro de Conceicao (Hill of Conception) and today it looks like two hills separated by a road known as Corte de Oiteiro. In Altinho you can see the
bungalows of government ministers, bureaucrats, the Bishop's Palace and houses belonging to some of Goa's oldest families. The tree-lined heights and quiet winding lanes add more to the beauty of Altinho. You can get breathtaking views of the capital city Panaji and its waterfront from the Altinho hill.

Gandhinagar

Tours to Gandhinagar can be included in the itinerary while on a Tour to Gujarat. Gandhinagar owes it name to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhinagar is the capital and an important city in Gujarat in India. Gandhinagar is situated at a distance of 32 kilometers towards north east from Ahmadabad. Gandhinagar is situated on the west bank of the Sabarmati River. Gandhinagar proudly boasts its identity as one of the few planned city in India. The city is divided into 30 sectors and stands as the second planned city of India after Chandigarh. Gandhinagar is the commercial and the cultural hub of the state of Gujarat. The city looks beautiful with the organized and architectural design.
While on Gandhinagar Tours, the tourists should make it a point to make their trip more exciting and interesting by visiting the main Tourist Attractions of Gandhinagar.
One of the famous Tourist Attractions of Gandhinagar is the Akshardham Temple which runs under the banner of the Swaminarayan Sect. The forts and the monuments, the gardens and the holy places in Gandhinagar comprise the famous tourist attractions of Gandhinagar. A visit to the Gandhi Ashram in Gandhinagar is a must while people are on a Tours to Gandhinagar. This is the house where Mahatma Gandhi stayed during his lifetime.

The Holy Places in Gandhinagar like the Hanumanji Temple and the Brahmani Temple should also be there on the tourists must visit list while on a Tour to Gandhinagar in Gujarat in India. The plan of the city has
been done in such a way that there is enough space left for parks and gardens. A stroll in the parks in the evening gives immense pleasure and a natural way to relax from the stress of the daily monotonous life.
Tours to Gandhinagar will be of sure interest to people who take an avid interest in the nation’s history. The Gandhi Ashram stands as an epitome of the nation’s struggle for freedom and the various national movements that took place during the colonial era. The Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar in Gujarat in India is made of 6000 tonnes of pink sandstone which makes it look beautiful and the temple with its spiritual value and architectural beauty attracts thousands of tourists every year.

Trips to Gandhinagar can be planned with no tension regarding the conveyance facility available. Gandhinagar being the prime city of Gujarat in India is well connected by trains from any parts of India. If a person is on a Tour to Gujarat can avail a Gandhinagar Tour easily as every part of Gujarat is connected to Gandhinagar by trains and buses. Tourists can even take a flight to Ahmadabad to reach Gandhinagar.
Tour to Gandhinagar is of great pleasure with the various tourist attractions in Gandhinagar. The hotel Accommodations in Gandhinagar are also available on a reasonable price.

Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal Location
City: Agra, On the Banks of River Yamuna
State: Uttar Pradesh
Distance from Delhi: 204 km (approximately)
The location of the Taj Mahal is such that the monument is easily accessible from almost all parts of India. The Taj is situated in the city of Agra in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. This is the basic answer to the question of "Where is Taj Mahal, India". In order to know about the location of Taj Mahal in Agra, read on the following lines:
In the city of Agra, Taj Mahal is sited inside a formal garden on the embankment of the River Yamuna. The entire Taj Mahal complex consists of a number of buildings comprising of a mosque, a guesthouse and the mausoleum, housing both the tombs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan. A long and beautiful walkway leads to the main mausoleum, which is built of pure white marble. Four waterways divide the gardens that stand in front of the Taj into four parts and then, meet in a pool at the center. It is said that half of the beauty of Taj Mahal comes from the strategic location where it stands.
History of Taj Mahal
The history of the Taj Mahal tells us "why was the Taj Mahal built" and many other myths and facts associated with this wonderful structure. Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan erected the Taj Mahal in the memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Shah Jahan (then Prince Khurram) met Mumtaz Mahal (then Arjumand Banu Begum) at the age of fourteen and fell in love at the first sight. She was a Muslim Persian princess and Shah Jahan was the son of the Mughal Emperor, Jehangir. Five years later, in 1612, they got married. As you read further you will come to know more about the history of the Taj Mahal at Agra
Mumtaz Mahal, an inseparable companion of Shah Jahan, died in 1631, 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. But this has not been proven to be true, till date.
However, Shah Jahan did indeed build a magnificent monument as a tribute to her wife, which we today know as the "Taj Mahal". Shah Jahan, himself also, lies entombed in this mausoleum along with his wife.
The construction of Taj Mahal started in the year 1631 and it took approximately 22 years to build it. An epitome of love, it made use of the services of 22,000 laborers and 1,000 elephants. It was built entirely out of white marble, which was brought in from all over India and central Asia. After an expenditure of approximately 32 million rupees (approx US $68000), Taj Mahal was finally completed in the year 1653. However, the history of Taj Mahal of India still has some gaps. For example, there are many theories regarding the architect of this magnificent monument.
Best Time to Visit Taj Mahal
The best time to visit Taj Mahal revolves around the weather of Agra, the city of the Taj Mahal. As per the climate of Agra, the peak season for Taj Mahal visit is the winter season i.e., from October to March. Otherwise,
there is no such thing as "the best time" to visit this magnificent monument. You may see Taj Mahal in any month of the year and it will come forward as breathtaking as it has always been. Infact, different seasons as well as different hours of the day lend a different aura to it.
Visit the Taj in the morning and it will come up with a pinkish glow to it. As the day passes, the pinkish glow turns into milky white by the evening. However, the radiance of the Taj under the moonlight is beyond any explanation. The white marble adorned with semi-precious stones stands sparkling like a jewel. By now, we have answered your question of "when to visit Taj Mahal of Agra". Remaining is, how much time to spend there. We will suggest that spend at least a day at the Taj Mahal to capture its beauty fully.
When visiting India browse through this beautiful list of places to see in India to make your trip a memorable one.

Shimla

Shimla Tourist Attractions
Shimla is full of tourist attractions that are worth visiting. They may intrigue some with their rich historical legacy and for some, they are the perfect places to indulge in some good photography. Shimla is a photographer's paradise and you will find some of the most picture perfect shots over here. Read on further about the famous tourist attractions of this lovely hill station of India and plan your tour to Simla.
Mall Road Shimla
One place that you cannot ignore is definitely the Mall Road in Shimla. Located at the heart of the town, the Mall Road in Simla is one of the busiest commercial areas of this place. Built by the British during the colonial rule in India, the Mall Road was constructed keeping in mind the traffic on this route. Entry of vehicles was banned though cycle rickshaws were allowed. It has been built in a very strategic and planned way.
The Mall is situated in the main street of Shimla. All colonial structures are located on the Mall Road. The Mall Road also has all major hotels, restaurants and recreation centers of Shimla. The Mall road is full of shops that sell woolen clothes, branded clothes, handicraft items, pottery items, jewellery, books, etc. The Mall Road is also famous for its wooden furniture shops that sell exquisite wooden articles, which look like antiques.
The Mall Road has many famous restaurants that specialize in not just local cuisines but also delicacies from nearby places. Since there are no vehicles allowed in the Mall, you don't quite have to worry about watching out for the traffic. While purchasing locally made goods, make sure you do some bargaining. Ideally, you should make sure that you bargain till at 30% of the amount quoted by the shopkeepers. The whole area is fun to loiter around in and you wont even know when time flies by.
Shimla Ridge
Located in the heart of Shimla is the famous tourist attraction known as The Ridge. The Ridge is the hub of all cultural activities of Shimla. It is situated along the Mall Road, which is the famous shopping center of Shimla. Most major places of Shimla like Lakkar Bazaar, Mall, Scandal Point, Jakhoo hill, etc. are connected through the Ridge. Read on more about the famous Shimla ridge in the following lines.
The main water supply of Shimla comes from the huge water reservoir that is located in the Ridge. The Ridge is famous for the various government functions and fairs that are held here. It is usually the venue for all such celebrations and events. The most famous festival that is held at the Ridge is the Summer Festival. This famous festival is held during the months of April or May and the whole of Shimla comes alive with colors and a riot of activities
The most famous landmark of the Ridge is the Christ Church. This beautiful building is constructed in Neo-Gothic style of architecture. It is a famous tourist attraction of Shimla and should be visited when you come to Shimla.

Annandale
Situated at a distance of 2 kilometers from the heart of the city, Annandale is a lovely picnic spot that is a major tourist attraction. One can relax and unwind over here and spend as much time as they want to.
Glenn
A thickly wooded forest, Glenn is a famous picnic spot that is located around 4 kilometers from the center of Shimla. The thick cover of the deodar trees makes this place a calm and tranquil locale. It used to be known as the playground of Shimla where racing, cricket and polo used to be the favorite pastime of the British.

Prospect Hill
Situated at a height of 2155 meters, the Prospect hill is a great place to visit and unwind in the natural surroundings. It is also famous for a hilltop temple dedicated to Kamna Devi.

State Museum & Library
The Shimla State Museum and Library is a famous tourist attraction that is located at a distance of around 2.5 kilometers from the center of Shimla. The museum is famous for is collection of ancient sculptures, paintings, coins and photographs. The museum has samples of the famous Pahari miniature art form, which ceased to exist when the Western art form took over. The museum should be visited by anyone who is coming to Shimla.
Summer Hill
The Summer Hill is located at a height of 1283 meters above sea level. This charming spot is famous for its university of Himachal Pradesh that is located here. It is said that Mahatma Gandhi used to come to stay here during his visit to Shimla



Viceregal Lodge
The Viceregal Lodge is located at the top of Observatory Hills and was constructed by the British. This brilliant building served as the residence of the Viceroy, Lord Dufferin. It was completed by the year 1888 and it is still well maintained. This Lodge has now been transformed into the famous Institute of Advanced Studies and the six storey building still stands in all its splendor. The lodge has famous gardens and perfectly manicured lawns. The place is a very famous tourist attraction and must be visited.
Best Time to Visit Shimla
Located on the lower ranges of the Himalayas, Shimla is a hill station that experiences extreme climatic conditions. It is situated at a height of around 2213 meters above sea level. This altitude gives Shimla its diverse climatic conditions. There is no such ideal time to visit Simla, as this pleasant hill station is one of the most preferred destinations in India at any given time. One can say that the peak season for Shimla travel is all though the year! Read on further and decide the best time to visit Shimla for yourself
Though Shimla has pleasant climate throughout the year, it experiences cold winters. The temperatures can drop to sub-zero conditions during the peak winter season. The best time to visit Shimla would be October to November and from March to May. It is advisable not to visit Shimla during monsoons as the place has a history of having landslides every now and then. The roads can get very slippery and it is not a good idea to roam around at this time.
You can also visit Shimla during winter months. The hill station witnesses heavy snowfall and tourists throng Shimla in December during Christmas and New Year. Winters are also an ideal time to visit Shimla if you love adventure sports like skiing and ice-skating. Though moving around is a bit difficult when it snows, just playing in the snow will lift up your spirits and make sure you have a wonderful vacation.