Thursday 19 December 2013

Visit Madhya Pradesh – A Top India Tour Series

Madhya Pradesh, located right at the center of India is fondly addressed as the country’s heartland. Featuring numerous interpretations of emotions like love, spirituality, royalty and gallantry through its monuments, temples, forts and palaces, this state has something for every traveller. A home to the cultural heritage of Hinduism, Islam and Buddhism, Madhya Pradesh has to its credit numerous monuments, gracefully carved temples, oldest stone stupas, forts and palaces. In fact, every bit of Madhya Pradesh is inspirational for travellers who come to trace back legends and testify the course of history through sightseeing.
A meeting point of North and South India, this large state is filled with many large hearted travel attractions serving varied travel interests. First aspect of MP rests in its heritage. The state’s history, spread over several millennia has etched a distinct impression in the heritage of Madhya Pradesh. Ranging from the prehistoric, ancient, medieval and modern historical monuments, the state is renowned for its abundant heritage specimens. This is the main reason why three of the structures i.e. The Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka, Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi and Khajuraho Group of Monuments are the declared world heritage structures. Bhimbetka Rock Shelters are the stunning rock shelters and rock paintings belonging to the lower Paleolithic, Mesolithic and Neolithic period of history. The cave paintings here display themes from everyday events like hunting, dancing, music, animals fighting and other household scenes. These 10,000-year-old paintings illustrate the very first traces of settlement in the region.
The second famous heritage specimen here is the series of Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi. Famous as the masterpiece of Buddhist art, the immaculately restored stupa complex is believed to be the oldest remaining stone structure in India. The excellently carved gateways or Toranas are again one of a kind addition to the stupa architecture in India. One of the hemispherical stupa here is believed to protect the relic casket of Lord Buddha, which makes it one of the most visited Buddhist attractions in India.
The third most influential heritage attraction of the state is the Group of Temples at Khajuraho. A famous cultural destination in India, these temples illustrate the life and times of Chandela kingdom. It was one of the most advanced societies of its times which contributed to the heritage of India in the form of the largest group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples. These temples are also famous for their erotic sculptures. But for the artistic mind, these temples are a tribute to the human desires. Etched in stone, every sculpture is carved immaculately with finesse and excellence by the expert carvers which present the best of heritage specimen in the country.


The state is also known for wildlife tourism with the presence of many national parks namely Bandhavgarh, Kanha, Satpura, Panna and Pench. These scrubby forests in Madhya Pradesh also host the highest density of tiger population in the country.
Besides this, the state is also renowned for its reverence and dedication towards god. According to Hindu Tradition, it hosts a number of pilgrimage sites and cities like Ujjain, Omkareshwar, Maheshwar, Chitrakoot, Amarkantak, Kaleshwar, Rajarajeshwara, etc.
The region also has many forts and palaces to it credit. Gwalior, Chanderi, Mandu, Orchha etc are the cities that still resonate with the royal essence of the state.
To reach this magnificent state, travellers need to head towards Bhopal or Indore. As the gateway cities, these two metropolitans cater to the travellers in the equally exciting way.

With so much of history, heritage, spirituality and other cultural attraction, the state offers extraordinary experiences to the tourists. The marvels of Madhya Pradesh Travel are many; choose what you want from it.

Monday 25 November 2013

Visit Tamil Nadu – A Top India Tour Series

Whenever we imagine South India, the cultural, heritage and artistic traditions of Tamil Nadu come into mind generally. Synonymous to the grandeur and splendour of south, this state of India is a treasure trove of culture and heritage. The heartland of Dravidian beliefs, this state has been Hindu by soul. This is because of the dominion of three prominent dynasties – the Cholas, the Pallavas and the Pandyas. They made sure that their unique religious and political control remains pure from foreign influences.
And they succeeded in their attempt by protecting their kingdoms for around 1,000 years. During this period, these dynasties built forts and even contributed luxuriously towards the unique temple architecture. The temples of Tamil Nadu are the most visible legacy of the Hindu kings. Based on the most intricate and grand gateways or Gopurams, these temples are the most important part of Tamilian heritage. The temple architecture here features the culmination of successive dynasties and testifies the importance of religion in daily life. Also, the temples here are bustling with devotion, rituals, worship, festivals and feasts. The legacy of Gopurams still exists in Tamil Nadu, making it a part of rich traditional heritage.
The famous temples here belong to Mahabalipuram, Kanchipuram, Trichy or Tiruchirapalli, Tanjore or Thanjavur, Madurai and Rameshwaram. Some are simply etched in stone; others symbolize the richness in artistic style and elegance.  In fact out of them, two i.e. Stone temples at Mahabalipuram and the Great Living Chola Temples are even regarded as the world heritage sites. The shrine at Rameshwaram is also a part of Char Dham Hindu Pilgrimage and a Shiva Jyotirlinga.
Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu is famous for its wealth of the longest Marina beach, grand mansions, and performing arts. Kanchipuram, besides being a famous pilgrim town is also famous for its patented offering of sarees. Besides, the state also has many other facets to look out for. These include a visit to the offbeat Puducherry, the erstwhile French enclave filled with a cosmopolitan and refined culture.
Another unique attraction here includes a visit to the famous hill stations like Coonoor, Kodaikanal, Ooty, etc. A part of Nilgiri Mountains, these hill stations offer welcoming relief to the tourists. Also, one of the hill stations, i.e. Ooty hosts the recognized world heritage site of mountain railways of India, Nilgiri Mountain Railway from Metupalayam to Ooty.  Also known as Toy Train, this cherished rail journey offers the travellers an exciting way to look at the heritage of steam fed engines.
In terms of beaches, the state is bestowed with a large number of beaches. Of all, one beach namely Kanyakumari stands unique for its sacred geography. Located at the southern tip of the Indian subcontinent, this beach is also the meeting point of the Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea. Along with this, the destination also is visited by heritage buffs for Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Kanyakumari Temple and Gandhi Mandapam.
One can spend recurrent vacations to soak in the most of the tourism potentials in Tamil Nadu. The prominent options to explore here include Beaches of Tamil Nadu Tour and South India Temple Tour.

Tuesday 29 October 2013

Visit Goa – A Top India Tour Series

India’s beach riviera, Goa is a premium destination famed for its sea, sun and tan. Quite literally, it has been said that brown skin tan is the visible proof that you’ve visited Goa. An obvious touristic heaven, this smallest Indian state has the largest tourist potentials. A world in its own, this gorgeous destination is blessed with the old world charm of Portuguese heritage, churches, spice forests, and a languid culture.
Sossegado is the word that defines the leisurely pace of Goa. This relaxed way of life encapsulates the essence of Goa. It is the relaxed feel only that sets it apart from the rest of Indian destinations. Goans influenced by Portuguese culture are inclined towards enjoying the good things in life and this is the distinctive aspect that makes Goa a good destination filled with numerous surprises. The fishing, coconut groves, fenni – the colloquial patented drink, soothing sunrise and mesmeric sunset is a few of the relieving experiences here.
The holiday culture here began with the inflow of hippies in the 60’s and 70’s who promoted the beauty and everlasting appeal of the destination worldwide. Since then, the state has welcomed millions and millions of travellers in search of peace and relaxation of Goan beaches.
But now, there is more to Goa than just beaches. The sheer heritage of Goa in the form of churches and heritage houses reveal much more to the travellers and familiarize them to the destination wholeheartedly. Old Goa, the first Portuguese capital showcases splendid architecture of cathedrals, churches and monasteries that still competes with Lisbon. This celebrated heritage of Convents and Churches of Goa has also received the recognition as the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Also, the travellers can notice the colonial heritage of the region by visiting the Braganza-Perreira House in Chandor. Undoubtedly the region’s most extravagant colonial mansion, this property displays a good collection of period furniture and fittings that attract many heritage enthusiasts.
The other side to Goa can also be experienced with a visit to Ponda. The lush valleys and surrounding woodlands here host a wealth of spices and medicinal herbs. Even tourists can experience the sensory pleasures of spices with a guided tour of Sahakari Spice Farm. Add on to this tour is the culinary meal relished during the end of this trip.
There is much more to this destination that can only be experienced during Goa state travel. As a part of top India tour series, we are highlighting every state of India replete with incredible travel experiences.


Monday 7 October 2013

Visit Kerala – A Top India Tour Series

At par with Rajasthan in terms of tourism potentials stands Kerala. Placed on the extreme south end of India, this is a pristine paradise speckled with many splendoured wonders. Projected worldwide as the ‘God’s own country,’ this is a destination with a difference. Unlike other states in India filled with bewildering culture, this is an unusually calm, refined and relaxed in its own unique way. The cities and villages here epitomize the slow pace and offer tourists a chance to ponder over the beauty and appeal. This in turn helps them relax and unwind slowly to its rare pleasures.
Literally interpreted as the line of coconut groves, Kerala offers one of the top India tour experiences. These travel experiences are as unique as the destination. At the first sight, it comes across as any other tourist destination, but slowly it pulls the tourists out of their weariness and engages them with its sensory experiences. This experiential side is the prime reason why it is listed as one of the ten paradises of the world by the National Geographic Magazine.
It is this Kerala experience only in this country that treats the senses comprehensively and pulls the visitor’s heart, mind and soul. Its hospitable side based on receptive Malayali ethos makes the destination more inviting and welcoming.
As far as its nature is concerned, the state is dotted with beaches, backwaters, paddy fields and coconut groves. These natural attractions and abundant green cover soothe the eyes and minds of the travellers. This picturesque beauty of greenery also accommodates the great wealth of spice forests and tea gardens that tease the sense of scents. Similarly, the taste buds here receive a wholesome treat full of rioted flavours in the form of Sadya. In the form of entertainment, visitors here experience foot-thumping ritual dances, temple festivals, boat races and wildlife spotting. In the end, the perfect way to unwind also rests in the Ayurvedic therapies that are followed with great expertise and acumen.

These sensory wonders comprise the essence of Kerala and feature as Top India tour experience. But wait. This is just a glimpse of this experiential journey. More of it can be easily experienced by participating in Kerala travel.


Sunday 6 October 2013

Visit Rajasthan - A Top India Tour Series

Now that India has welcomed you with open arms and ritualistic reception, the expectations must be really very high from its tour. And the country doesn’t let you down as it is bestowed with a lot of tourism potentials. Rich in diversity of all kinds, the country is a vibrant mix of cultural heritage, rituals and traditions.
There is a difference in the Indian destinations. No two destinations are similar here. They are differently positioned in terms of heritage, culture, beliefs, architecture, monuments, climate, geography, biodiversity, etc. And all these special features lend a distinctive edge to the travelling in India.
One such diverse experience one can exclusively experience in India is its heritage tour. Scattered far and wide, the heritage in the form of forts, palaces, historical monuments, temples and town ruins forms a great reason why most of the tourists turn towards and visit India. It’s the presence of this rich and enigmatic heritage that many travellers come towards the country and witness its rich marvels.
And when it comes to heritage, there is one destination that surpasses the charm of any other destination. This is the royal territory of India, Rajasthan. Literally interpreted as the land of the Kings, this destination is deeply etched in different experiences based on its heritage of extravagant forts, palaces and finely carved temples. And this is also the first destination to come under top India tour series.
Rajasthan, dotted with these heritage marvels, is the pride of India. A visit to this splendid land presents the richly bedecked royal legacy of the land that once made the country popular for its famed riches.
There is a reason why Rajasthan tour is a rich spectacle displaying country’s classic architecture. This monumental crop of the region is erected by the royals in an attempt to liven up one of the driest places on earth. And they were successful in achieving their motives. With a rich interplay of colours, artistry and immaculate vision, they were able to bring a luxurious edge to the destination.
These forts are the legacy of the region’s illustrious and prosperous times. Adding on to the architectural splendour is the region’s deep seated association with the past that makes it a compelling place to travel. It’s strong adherence to the colourful cultural traditions that makes it a differential destination.
Even in these modern times, the natives of Rajasthan prefer to participate in fairs and festivals, boast curvy moustaches, wear colourful turbans, and follow the artistic folk legacy of the land. May be they love these traditions with heart. Or maybe they fear to lose connect with the culture that makes the locals cherish their celebrated traditions. What’s more to this destination is its love for the guests. Even in folk traditions, the inviting theme of ‘Padhaaro Mhaare Des’ or visit my country land forms the basic premise. Rajasthan has very much kept alive that same tradition since ages and continues to do so with its heartwarming hospitable traditions. All these elements in this royal Indian state come together and present the country at its most exotic.





Friday 23 August 2013

India - An Inviting Country of Classic Experiences

India is one of the rarely bestowed countries in the world. It has everything that makes a destination inviting, attractive and truly wonderful. There’s rich Indian hospitality based on the ancient belief of ‘Atithi Devo Bhavah’, where guests are revered as Gods. This is not just a teaching that’s faded with time, but a continuing legacy where every household practices the same belief in an ardent way.

The tourism industry of India has also borrowed this concept to make the country more inviting. The nation has in it the various traditions and rituals based on welcoming the guests. At first sight, they join their hands and address the visitor with ‘Namaste’ or ‘Namaskar’ in Hindi. This is a customary greeting or valediction gesture which means ‘I Bow.’ This is done the same way Indians worship and pray in front of the deities. The gesture represents the compassionate and welcoming nature of the country.
The next welcoming step adhered in the country is the gracious welcome in the form of small red dot called tika or tilaka applied on the travellers’ forehead as a symbol of respect. Next step is to apply some rice and sprinkle it over the guest to make an India tour prosperous and full of happiness. Much like Indians do while performing puja worship. Occasionally, they also offer a garland to accentuate this special reception. Same like they perform in front of the deity.
This is an important ritual reiterating the importance of guests in the country. Be it a foreigner or a domestic tourist, all experience the same set of inviting hospitality during India tour.
All India Top Tours present the same opportunity of experiencing that special and hospitable side of India. Another plus side that comes up with them is the culmination of engaging sightseeing of architectural, cultural and natural side during a trip to India.
The rest of the hospitality is accentuated with the engaging sightseeing of architectural, historical monuments, natural attractions like hill stations, beaches, backwaters, rivers, plateaus, forested greens and dry desert stretch. They can even participate in the cultural fairs, festivals, wildlife safari, ayurveda and yoga retreats and a lot more in this enchanting trail.

Moreover, it’s the ritualistic reception that makes any Top India tour stand out in an endeavour to provide novel and unique tour experiences to the travellers touring the country. To know more about the country, visit http://www.topindiatour.com