Top Buddhist sites to see in India

Buddhist Tourism in India is a pilgrimage tour to the world famous sites related to Gautama Buddha. These religious sites and Buddhist place of pilgrimage are the most important holy place for Buddhists in India. There are three main pilgrimage sites in India for Buddhist Tourism, Bodh Gaya, Kushinagar and Sarnath, Lumbini is in Nepal and a World Heritage Site by UNESCO along with Bodh Gaya in Bihar.

Gaya, Bihar

Located some 110 kilometers from the state of Bihar’s capital city Patna is Gaya district, home to one of the holiest pilgrimage sites revolving around the life of Gautama Buddha for followers of Buddhism. The Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment while sitting under a large peepal tree known as the Bodhi tree at a location which is today known as Bodh Gaya. The Maha Bodhi Temple which features a huge statue of the Buddha in a deep meditation, is another major attraction in Gaya which attracts numerous Buddhists and those curious about the life of the Buddha.

Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh

Kushinagar is one of the four sacred Buddhist places in India as this is where at the age of 81, Buddha passed away. This is also the site of his last lesson where he said “All things must pass. Decay is inherent in all things”. The area houses the Rambhar Stupa which is said to have been built at the same place as where Buddha was cremated. There is also a Mahaparinirvana temple which holds a magnificent statue of Buddha in reclining position. Other than these, there are some temples, stupas, shrines and a museum here. It is one of the most important Buddhist places in India.

Shravasti, Uttar Pradesh

Photo UP Tourism

This ancient town in ruins today was one of the six largest cities in India during the Buddha’s lifetime. The city is the place where the Buddha lived for the longest amount of time. Ancient remains indicate that his teachings had a great following in Shravasti. Several age-old stupas and temples from the Buddha’s times still remain in the town, attracting tourists and followers from around the globe.

Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh

Sarnath marks the beginning of Buddha’s sermons and preaching. It was in a deer park, in this very district that Buddha gave his first sermons, after enlightenment. Sarnath is one of the four sacred Buddhist places in India with structures such as Dhamekh Stupa and Chaukhandi Stupa that celebrate its historical significance.

Barabar Caves

These Buddhist cave temples are the oldest surviving rock-cut caves in India, dating back to the 3rd century B.C.E. Located some 24 km north of Gaya in the state of Bihar, these caves were used by generations of Buddhist ascetics as well as by Jains. The caves are said to have been built by the famous Buddhist Emperor Ashoka. Featuring four major caves, called Karan Chaupar, Lomas Rishi, Sudama, and Visva Zopri, each of which are detailed with inscriptions and elaborate sculptures, these cave structures are said to have greatly influenced the likes of the Ajanta caves in Maharashtra.

Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

Dharamshala is an important Buddhist tourist destination in India, along with suburb of McLeod Ganj. It is the winter capital of Himachal Pradesh and also one of the famous bird watching spots in India, located in the Kangra Valley and part of the Tea Tourism industry known as Kangra tea. Tsuglagkhang or Dalai Lama Temple Complex near Mcleod Ganj is the official home of the 14th Dalai Lama and a must visit place in Dharamshala.

See more: Conquer the best hiking destinations in India

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Top destinations to visit in North India

Remnants of ancient empires, cosmopolitan cities, spiritual towns, scenic mountains, picturesque lakes and lush valleys are all part of North India’s vast and diverse landscape. This is a list of some of the best places to visit in North India.

Delhi

Delhi is a uniquely historic and cosmopolitan city that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Its historic monuments, landscaped gardens, amazing food, bustling markets, vibrant art and nightlife scene, diverse cultures and youthful liveliness all make this city wonderfully dynamic. Some notable attractions include the iconic India Gate, Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, Chandi Chowk, Lotus temple and Lodhi Gardens.

Agra

Certainly one of the most well-known places in North India, Agra is famed for its historic sights, which are reminiscent of the Mughal-era. From the iconic Taj Mahal and 16th-century Agra Fort to the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri, Agra is a dream for architecture aficionados and history buffs.

Varanasi

Dating back to the 6th century BC, Varanasi is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the country. For centuries, it’s been an important site for Hindu pilgrims and spiritual seekers from across the world. People come here to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and attain inner peace, beside taking a dip in the sacred waters of the Ganges – part of an ancient ritual of purification of soul, body and mind. You’ll see around 87 ghats (flights of steps leading to the river) and more than 2,000 temples, mostly dedicated to Hindu god Shiva. Do not leave without attending the Ganga aarti (prayer ritual held every evening) and enjoying a boat ride along the Ganges.

Amritsar

Amritsar is a treasure in terms of history, culture and gastronomy. The city impresses thoroughly with its breathtakingly beautiful Golden Temple (sacred seat of Sikhism), the Wagah border (crossing lying on the grand trunk road between India and Pakistan) and the Jallianwala Bagh (a massacre memorial and garden). Make sure you try the local Punjabi food, especially the langar at the Golden Temple.

Parvati Valley

Parvati Valley beckons to nature lovers and keen adventurers. Here, visitors can discover picture-perfect villages of Kasol, Malana and Tosh – complete with unspoilt natural beauty, hippie vibes, and outdoor activities such as trekking and riverside camping. Ideal for those seeking respite from bustling city life.

Manali

At an altitude of 2,050 metres in the Beas Valley lies Manali, Manali is one of North India’s best ski places in winter. Come summer when the snows have retreated, it becomes one of the best spots for adventure enthusiasts, who can indulge in river rafting in Beas River, trekking in Rohtang Pass and Beas Kund; paragliding, zorbing and yak riding in Solang Valley. Adventurous outings not your thing? Fret not! Manali has plenty of other places on offer, including ancient temples, Tibetan monasteries, wildlife sanctuaries, art and cultural centres.

Leh-Ladakh

With Himalayas in the south and the Karakoram mountains in the north, Leh-Ladakh is a favourite retreat for trekkers and biking enthusiasts. The place is also home to several Buddhist monasteries overlooking a spectacular panoramic vista of snow-clad mountains and icy glaciers. Those seeking peace can stay at the monasteries and partake in the spiritual retreats.

Rajasthan

Dubbed the ‘Land of Kings’, Rajasthan has been captivating the hearts of locals and tourists alike for years, with its ancient forts, glamorous palaces, exquisite havelis (mansions), diverse landscape, vibrant art and culture, and traditional cuisine. Though there are many worthwhile places to explore in the royal land, the best ones include the imperial cities of Jodhpur, Bikaner and Udaipur, the pink city of Jaipur, the golden city of Jaisalmer and the holy city of Ajmer.

See more: The best destinations for extreme sports in India

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Top 5 luxury hotels in Mumbai, India

This inventory of the most luxury hotels in Mumbai has been established following the amount of bookings these high-end accommodation choices received in the past month. 

Mumbai is definitely a city of contrast, which offers to its visitors a complete change of scene. This huge cosmopolitan metropolis, the largest in India, features an incredible choice of cultural and religious sites, as well as entertainment options, thanks to its long and colourful history.

The Oberoi Mumbai

The Oberoi, Mumbai enjoys an unrivalled position on the exclusive Marine Drive, with unparalleled views of the ocean, and the Queen's Necklace, a golden crescent of lights that adorns the shoreline after dark.

The centrepiece of the hotel is the atrium lobby, abundant with natural light that flows through our tremendous skylight and large floor-to-ceiling windows. Tiled in flawless white Thassos marble and featuring a contemporary, black granite waterbody, all rooms, restaurants and spa facilities revolve around and branch off this focal point. In the midst of it all, a stylish, red piano occupies centre-stage.

The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai

Anyone who has ever considered visiting Mumbai has likely heard about the Taj Mahal Palace, which is touted as India’s first and premier luxury hotel. This flagship hotel boasts is located in a rather impressive modern palace, and its staff is comparable to a small army whose sole purpose is to ensure all guests enjoy the finest available experience. If you want nothing short of prestige and affluence, the Taj Mahal Palace will cater to your desires.

The Westin Mumbai

Discover a winning combination of luxury and convenience at The Westin Mumbai Garden City, featuring sleek, modern accommodations amid a wealth of premium amenities. Located in Mumbai's thriving business district, our contemporary hotel offers guests a welcoming environment for work and play. Chase adventure on the vibrant streets of Mumbai or relax in the tranquility of your elegant guest room with floor-to-ceiling windows and award-winning Westin Heavenly Bed.

Whether you have arrived for business or pleasure, our hotel offers a suite of services to inspire you to be at your best, from wellness treatments at the Heavenly Spa by Westin™ to business center services for enhanced productivity. Reach a higher level of success in our hotel's dynamic event spaces, featuring modern boardrooms, elegant wedding venues and a convenient location near the International Airport. Whatever your reason for visiting, our hotel in Goregaon East wants to make your stay a memorable experience at The Westin Mumbai Garden City.

The LaLit Mumbai

Among the many 5 start hotels available in Mumbai, the LaLit might be one of the most reasonably priced and economically competitive. Boasting a unique offering of luxury apartments with full-featured hotel service, the LaLit is a great choice for families or anyone else who wants to stay in a place that feels just like home. The available residences are very tastefully decorated in a modern style, and the wonderful ambience and high standards of this place will impress even the most demanding visitors.

The St. Regis Mumbai

Located in the heart of India’s Maximum City, The St. Regis Mumbai, the country’s tallest hotel tower, is a timeless address in the city’s premier entertainment and commercial district of Lower Parel. The hotel has a befitting legacy beginning 1904, with the birth of the flagship The St. Regis New York, conjoined with the rise of the Phoenix Mill complex in the same year, where the hotel now stands. Now, 111 years later, both addresses come together to create history.

See more: Top 10 must-visit attractions in Mumbai, India

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Top 6 amusement parks to experience in Goa

The amusement parks in Goa are full of amusing rides, fun games and adventure activities. Replete with swimming pools, cafeterias and deer parks, these wonderful amusement parks are the best way to relax and rewind in gorgeous decor and charming ambience. 

Some of these also offer overnight stays and extended trips for you to take a break and spend a leisure vacay. While some other amusement parks also host private parties, poolside parties, corporate events, gathering etc. Check out the top amusement parks in Goa given below!

Nagesh Eco Ventures

This amusement park in Goa is one of the best amusement parks as it offers many adventurous activities for both kids and adults. The place is open to all and people of different age groups visit this amusement park for having a fun and relaxed time.

The place has a lot of adventurous activities to offer along with the availability of amazing cuisines. The spacious surroundings of the place ensure that its visitors are getting enough space and there is no chaos amongst the people.

Froggyland

Froggyland is another one of the top amusement parks in Goa. Situated in Nuvem, the water park offers an array of thrilling rides and activities like lazy rivers, group racing-slides, Lily Pads, mushrooms, giant tube rides, etc.

Interestingly, the waterpark does not just include water rides and slides but also a number of adventurous activities that fill your bucket with loads of memorable moments. An ideal destination for all sorts of groups, family, and friends, this amazing theme park is the perfect vacation hotspot for people looking for something different from the typical Goan parties, beaches, and architecture.

6 Shades of Nature

True to its name, the water park is sure to calm your mind and rejuvenate your senses. The water park is built on a gigantic farm and gives you a feeling of being in the lap of nature. Just dive into the water park and relax to the sounds of nature all at one time. The water park allows you to grow trees on the farm next to the water park, giving you a raw experience.

6 Shades of Nature also has cottages for visitors who want to stay overnight. You can spend a quiet evening sitting beside the waterfall and liven up your senses. The water park has amenities like separate pools for adults and kids, huts, treehouses, kulagar, and natural pond that offer a calm place to enjoy and unwind.

Splashdown Water Park

One of the coolest water parks of Goa, the splashdown waterpark has 5 pools, a variety of rides and flumes that makes it popular among tourists especially families and children. The first to be built in North Goa, the Splashdown Waterpark offers total merry-making for everyone in the hot summer days. Housing a gorgeous resort, the waterpark gives you a fantastically luxurious and comfortable vacation.

One of the offbeat, yet, famous attractions in Goa, Splashdown is located just 10 minutes away from Panjim and 10 minutes away from Mapusa. Moreover, it is also close to Calangute, which is one of the most popular beaches in Goa. The rides and facilities at the park will ensure that you and your kids have a great time gallivanting the day off!

Anjuna Holiday Homes

This place is one of the greatest attractions of Goa. Not only kids but also adults like visiting the place because of the fact that the place offers them the best of rides, food, adventurous sports and other activities.

The place is the perfect destination that one can visit on weekend to have an amazing time with their loved ones. Right from the presence of a number of rides and adventurous sports to the delicious food and snacks that this place serves, everything just falls into the right place here.

Sharvraj Eco Farm

The scenic beauty and Water Park make it a perfect blend of the best amusement park in Goa. Enjoy the thrills and adventure in the lap of nature. The adventure park is a real video game with numerous fun activities like sky cycling, zip-lining, tyre climbing, net climbing, rope net crossing, Burma Bridge, and many more.

The main attractions to the water park are family slide, spiral ride, multi lane slide, and a water play station. Sharvraj Water Park comprises one of the biggest and longest water slides in Goa. The most mesmerizing attraction is the curvy waterfall that is made from different stones and metals like slate and copper, giving it a feel of real waterfall with a soothing sound that revives you from within.

See more: Lost in the most beautiful beaches of Goa, India

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Visiting Jaipur, India in one day

Jaipur, the pink and magnificent city of India, is home to royal palaces and historical forts, rich in tradition and famous for its Rajasthani food. We bring you the best things to do and see in the city.

Jaipur City Palace

Present in the heart of the old city of Jaipur, the city palace proves the style and elegance of the Rajput royalties. To blend in the majestic city, the first place to stop by is this capital palace which is a sprawling complex with arresting buildings and collection of marvelous artifacts. Built by the Rajput king Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, a part of the structure has now been converted into a museum, and it also houses two huge sterling silver vessels that can store 4,000 liters of liquid, recorded as the largest in the Guinness Book of World Records. The Royal Family still inhabits the palace.

Hawa Mahal

Just 700 meters from the palace is the ‘Palace of the Winds,’ Hawa Mahal. The five-story building is in the shape of a semi-octagonal structure, with 953 small windows (jharokhas), akin to the honeycomb of a beehive. It is believed that the structure was made for the royal ladies to observe the everyday bustling life in the streets without being seen under the obligation to ‘purdah’ (face cover).

Amber Fort

This fort is located on the outskirts of Jaipur. The lake in the front provides a beautiful reflection of the fort, which has four parts, including a temple, the meeting halls and the famous Sheesh Mahal. It is the same mahal where the song ‘Jab pyaar kiya to darna kya’ of Mughal-e-azam was shot. The mahal is beautiful with infinite mirrors used over the walls. And while you’re here, don’t forget to try an elephant ride.

After appreciating the empire which was once home to the Royals, visit 1135 AD restaurant when you’re ready to have some lunch. Hardly a kilometer away, the restaurant blesses visitors with an imperial elegant ambiance. Served in silver cutlery, one can enjoy the taste of Mughlai, Rajasthani and North Indian cuisine and have the perfect royal experience.

Street Shopping

Rajasthan is famous for its traditional jootis, colorful ghagras and the beautiful jholas with small mirrors stitched to it. So to get the best of these, do shop in places like Johari Bazaar (Jewelry Market), Nehru Bazaar, and Bapu Bazaar. Johari Bazaar is famous for its fabulous collection of jewels, with gems and other semi-precious stones. The colorful textiles and jootis (sandals) can be bought in this area as well. While you’re shopping in Bapu Bazaar, you will also have the chance to witness the ‘pink’ in this pink city.

Chokhi Dhani

A village-themed restaurant, Chokhi Dhani captures the spirit of Rajasthan. The décor is full of paintings, the famous Bani Thani art, a dedicated Deepak wall, evening performances and food served by people in traditional costumes. A perfect place to end the night and have sumptuous Rajasthani delights.

See more: Top destinations in Bangalore, India

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The useful tips to visit Goa, India

Planning to spend your vacations in Goa? Being one of the major tourist destinations in India, Goa is a perfect place to holiday. So if you have already packed your bags, just go through these useful tips to make your trip memorable.

1/ Do not stick to the popular beaches

With a huge coastline spanning 105 kilometres (65.2 miles), Goa is blessed with a plethora of beaches. Baga, Vagator, Candolim and Calangute are the popular beaches and crowded to boot, while there are plenty of unspoilt and unexplored beaches, where you can relax in peace and solitude. Some of them include Kakolem beach, Galgibaga, Hollant beach, Velsao, Ashwem beach, Mobar beach and Butterfly beach.

2/ Respect holy places and the Goan culture

• While visiting the places of worship due respect and proper decorum should be maintained. Always remove your slippers or shoes before entering any place of worship.
•  When visiting churches, temples and museums kindly switch off your cell phones or you may turn them on silent mode.
• Dress appropriately at all the holy places you visit. Also, it is advisable to cover your heads while visiting  Temples, Mosques and Gurudwaras.
• Don’t idolize the culture, but treat it with respect.

3/ Best way to explore Goa

If you like walking, you will only be able to explore your beach area and around. If you want to explore further, you should rent a scooter. Exploring Goa on a rented scooter is the best and the most affordable option. These scooters are usually available for INR 200 – 300 per day. Please make sure you carry your driver’s license because there are many check points. It is possible to rent cars too but many spots can only be accessed by scooters or on foot.

4/ Explore both North Goa and South Goa

Both North and South Goa have their own appeal. It is highly recommended to explore both the regions as they have plenty to offer visitors. You should move your way north to south. Tick off all the North Goa attractions, and then further move to the peaceful South Goa and make a trip to Vasco Da Gama and Old Goa that are home to centuries-old monuments, churches, temples, museums and islands.

5/ Be Safe in Goa

While Goa is safer than most of India and perhaps many parts of the world, it does not hurt to take typical safety precautions. Trust your instincts and do not accept drinks from strangers. When in doubt, head to the nearest shop and contact a local for help.

6/ Photography

• There are many places such as museums where photography may be restricted so before flashing your camera just look out for signs saying “No pictures” or “Photography Restricted”.
• If you want to click a photo of another person, kindly take his or her permission before. Most people do not refuse if you ask politely.
• It is advised while visiting the caves, temples, forts and churches take a photo of a sign board with the name of that place, as it would be hard to remember later when you reach back home.
• If there are sign boards saying “No Flash”, make sure to use camera without it.
• Charge your camera batteries every night.

See more: Lost in the most beautiful beaches of Goa, India

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The ideal places to hunt snow for winter lovers in Asia

If you are not looking to escape the chill of winter, but instead want to take in wondrous snow-covered views while exploring some of Asia’s best destinations, you will find that and more by heading to one of these spectacular places.

Photo @fswildvet

Sapporo, Japan

There are many places in Japan to experience snow, but one of the most popular is Sapporo. This city has a lot of ski resorts only 20 to 60 minutes ride away by car, so, adding that to your day trip itinerary would be bearable.

If you are a beginner, you could try sledding or snow-tubing, on the other hand, if you are not interested in snow games, you may want to time your visit during Snow Festival which usually takes place in February. Despite the freezing cold temperatures, more than 2 million people go to the Hokkaido capital to witness the snow come alive annually and Japan is well-known as one of the snow countries in Asia.

Mongolia

Looking for a snowy place that is unique and far the flocks of tourists? Why not pack your bags, and head to Mongolia in winter? With its majestic landscapes and countryside covered in white, snow seekers will absolutely find their bliss in this pristine and untouched land. For bona fide adventurers, Mongolia can help you unleash your wild side with its mishmash of outdoor thrills, such as canoeing, horseback riding, mountain climbing and skiing.

Harbin, China

The “Ice City,” as Harbin is known, hosts one of the world’s largest snow and ice festivals, the Harbin International Ice Festival. Held throughout much of January and into February, it features some 1,500 larger-than-life ice structures that shimmer with multi-colored lights. Every year there is a different theme, varying from mythical beasts to famous landmarks from across the globe. Harbin and the surrounding area also offers some of the best winter sports opportunities on the planet, including skiing and snow boarding.

Lhasa, Tibet

If you do not mind, or perhaps even revel in, extreme winters, by heading to Lhasa you will enjoy the breathtaking beauty of one of the world’s most jaw-dropping snowy wonderlands with fewer crowds and cheaper hotel accommodation. While it will be cold, it will not be nearly as chilly as you might think, particularly as December and January are dry months and the high-altitude sun is almost always in abundance, making it feel warmer than the temperature would have you believe.

You can also enjoy festivals, like the Monlam, or Great Prayer Festival, in which monks and artisans create colorful butter sculptures for burning during the Butter Oil Lantern Festival. If you are here for the Tibetan New Year, Losar, you can celebrate with the locals by watching dance performances at Potala Palace and even hanging up prayer flags on the temples and mountain tops.

Sapa, Vietnam

Being surrounded by many top summer destinations like Bali, Phuket, and Boracay, it may come as a surprise to you that Vietnam also experiences snow! Even though snowboards and toboggans are not commonplace to Vietnam, you will surely fall in love when what used to be green fields of rice in summer turn to white during the winter.

Beijing, China

Traveling to China during winter? China’s capital gets pretty cold in December, with the average temperature sitting around negative 2 degrees Celsius. Besides being a low-tourist month (you can enjoy super affordable fights and hotels in December in Beijing), you likely find snowfall in this city during Yuletide getaway.

Most of the city’s ski resorts open their doors, when December sets in, meaning you can try your hand at tobogganing, snowboarding and skiing. If you are lucky to catch some snow during your visit, make your way to The Summer Palace, for breathtaking snow views. And do not forget to check out the world renowned Great Wall of China, to enjoy elevated view of its snowy surrounding landscapes.

Shimla, India

Fabulous for a nature retreat, Shimla is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, while monkeys roam freely along the overhead cables, casually watching the shoppers below. It enjoys snowy winters thanks to its northern latitude, making it an ideal place to escape the intense heat that so many other cities in India endure.

Nearby at Wildflower Hall, you will find a haven for ski enthusiasts seeking refuge from crowded, overly commercialized resorts. This premiere mountaintop resort will make you feel as if you are stepping into the pages of a fairy-tale with its gorgeous vistas of endless forest and snow-capped mountain peaks. Spend your days taking part in whatever winter sport suits your fancy, and indulging in holistic spa treatments, complemented by more extraordinary views.

Read more: 7 Asian dishes you will love during winter

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