Tourism in India

India is a large country with many destinations that are popular for holidays. Most of the foreign tourists come to India for tourism in various parts of the country. The inbound travelers prefer to travel by air rather then falling into the hassles of overnight journey. Another big problem is the difficulty in availability of a reserved berth.     

But there are many destinations where a train journey becomes a must to reach. Since these destinations are part of itinerary one gets to experience train travel in India. In package tours the arrangements have already been made by the tour operator and their tour guide looks over everything. 

It becomes bit difficult for the uninitiated to travel long distance by train. Hence one must plan for the journey in advance if you are traveling on your own. The first step is to inquire as to which train will take you to your destination. After you note down the name and number you must reserve your seat/berth. This can be done through the booking center or a travel agent. Another option is through the IRCTC website on the internet. This is an easy procedure and you can do it yourself by making the payment online through your card.     

The train travel needs lots of precaution. Hence you should secure your reservation properly. If your ticket is in wait listed position you should make sure that it has been confirmed at the time of the travel. This is important since you are not allowed to travel without confirmation. If you look at the ticket you will discover a ten digit number called PNR number. Use this to keep on checking the PNR status online at IRCTC website. As soon as your status crosses  over the wait list position it will change to RAC status. This means reservation against cancellation. This position allows you to embark and share your berth with another passenger. You usually get a confirmed status whence another ticket is cancelled. This mean you have your own berth now.   

During the rail journey the ticket is inspected by the TT or the ticket checker once or twice during the journey. If you have booked your ticket online than you have to produce photo identity to verify your credentials. The valid ID could be a driving lisence or a UTI pan card issued by IT department of India. In case of foreigner a valid original passport has to be produced.   

One has to be very alert of thiefs and pick pockets who will steal you money, cedit cards and passport. Even during the rail journey your baggage may be stolen hence secure it with a lock and chain.   

Situated in the heart of India Madhya Pradesh is famous for tiger safaris and Khajuraho Temples. The state is an epitome of incredible beauty and characteristic greenery. Hidden in remote destinations are objects of amazing tourism potential that bewilders and astounds travelers like no place does.  

Many towns and cities of MP are emerging destinations with unique offerings and travel delights. Rich in culture, history and ethnic diversity MP astounds visitors with its ever changing scapes and diverse profile. To a well heeled traveler distances do not matter, it is an eternal quest for new discoveries and exploration of unknown that attracts.   
As a summer capital of Scindhia Rulers of erstwhile Gwalior State Shivpuri is a hill resort situated in Northern Madhya Pradesh bordering Rajasthan. The quaint little town is covered by dense forests on its outer confines. Madhav National Park is famous for wetlands and forest birds. It is home to many wild animals that can be seen in a tiger safari.     

The township is host to many ancient villages scattered on outskirts of many rural settlements. Some of the places are Terahi, Mahua, Indari, Ranod and Sakarra. These villages are home to many Jain and Hindu Temples that depict rock cut carvings on outer walls.

Many ancient temples are over 1000 years old. Some of them are in state of neglect and losing ground. The Chamunda Devi Temple is worth a visit. Other places of interest are Madhav Vilas Palace and Chattris built by the Scindia Dynasty. George Castle was built in the park during the British Rule. The Chandpatha Lake appears like a home to celestial damsels during the full moon.

Well known for its exquisite hand woven Saris, Maheshwar is situated on the banks of Holy River Narmada. It is home to many temples with fine carvings and unique over hanging balconies. Some of the temples worth visiting are Kaleshwar, Rajarajeshwara, Vithaleshwara and Ahileshwar.  The fort complex houses the statue of Rani Ahilyia Bai and house many artifacts of the Holkar Dynasty.   The town celebrates Hindu festivities with astounding enthusiasm and gaiety attracting thousands of pilgrims on spiritual quest.

Saint Tulsidas wrote the sacred Hindu epic Ramayana on the banks of River Mandakini at Chitrakoot. Lord Rama is supposed to have spent years of his exile here along with Lord Laxman and Sita. The place is visited by thousands of pious every year to pray for well being and visit the places associated with Lord Rama. The verdant greenery and panoramic charm attracts many tourists to spend their holidays in Chitrakoot  or avail Ayurvedic treatments and attend Yoga sessions. Chitrakut region is situated in Satna District of MP while a district has been created in Uttar Pradesh.

Madhya Pradesh is the second largest state of India. The destinations yet unexplored are slowly emerging from their sleep. As the World awakens to this marvelous destination, the potential of Central India tourism unfolds new vistas of travel delights.       

Central India has been always the center of tiger tourism in India. The state of Madhya Pradesh in a landlocked state situated in the very heart of the country hence the name. 

For a well heeled travel the state is a bundle of delights. Abundant wildlife and birds are the major attractions but as new vistas of state tourism open many aspects of tourism in MP are revealed. The state is rich in architectural splendours that date way back in the past. Fort palaces and anceint temples are the finest examples of historical grandeur that depict the history and reign of many invaders and settlers.   

Some of the popular destinations in India are:

Pachmarhi Hill Resort

Brought to light by Capt Forsyth this hilly land of astoudning natural formations is a veritable paradise on Earth. Situated in the cradle of the Highlands of Central India (Satpura Ranges) the highest point is at Dhupgarh at 1350 MSL. The terrain comprises of hills and valleys covered with dense forests and inundated by the Denva River which is the life line of this amazing ecosystem.

Pachmarhi Hill Resort is one of the top tourist destination in the State of Madhya Pradesh. It is also a wildlife sanctuary and a biosphere reserve that encompases Bori Wildlife Sanctuary and Satpura Tiger Reserve. The tourism is organized leading many natural cave formations, Sighseeing points, natural springs and falls, serene pools; Sunset and sunrise points, temples and steep hill formations and glens that are unique to this hill resort.      

Khajuraho Temples

Situated deep in the remote part of Madhya Pradesh in Chatterpur district are the lost temples of magnificent architetcure and divine splendor.  The temples lay hidden from urban civilization for centuries before they were brought to light by a British archeologist in 19th century. Since then the ancient marvels of human creativity have become the hub of tourism. 

The Hindu Temples depict sensous carving on the outer walls. Bizzare and esoteric the main attraction are the depiction of apsaras, lovers and even animals interlocked in sexual acts that at the best can be described as incredible. This bold depiction of Kamasutra in a conservative era belies tradition and stringent norms that prevalied in India.       

Orchha - Hidden Jewel

Situated on River Betwa is an old historical town buit by Rudra Pratap Singh in the 16th Century. The place abounds with historical splendours - Forts, palaces, temples and cenotaphs. The salubrious climes and abundant greenery makes this town in Tikamgarh District of Madhya Pradesh and ideal holiday destination.    

Mandu - Romance & Valor

Famed for the romatic liasons of Baaz Bhadur and Rani Roopmati Mandu is an anceint historical town. Situated in the Dhar District of MP the town is one of the finest honey moon destinations. The destination become romantic with its ethereal charm during the monsoons. Mandu has a turbulent history shaped by numerous invasions it is home to many forts, palaces, temples and majestic gates.    

Other places of interest are some are popular and many lesser known. The means of travel are independant or in group. The affordable Central India tour packages organized by MP Tourism operators are best for wildlife safaris and sigseeing in the state.   

The state is well endowed by tourism infrastructure, road network and rail transportation. Chartered air services ply between the major towns of MP. Many airlines connect New Delhi, Mumbai, Varanasi etc with the major towns.

All modern facilities and amenities are available in large towns but while traveling to remote destination it is wise to be well equipped.  

India is a large country in South Asia. Subject to migration long back and frequent invasions the country exhibits bewelidering diversity in every aspect of tourism. The country has famtastsic wildlife hence tiger safaris are very popular. It has thirteen percent of the World's birds hence it has become a popular destination for bird watching.

The country is home to thousands of religious and hiostorical monuments that are tell tale edicts of its turbulent past. The architectural splendour of its monuments attract thousands of touists from all over the World.

The diversity extends to the cultural fabric  and ethnic profile of the Nation hence much more is delivered to a tourist interested in learning about India.  

India generates variety of emotions but the charm and beauty of the country bedazzles many visitiors. My entries will offer an inner perspetive of travel In india.