15 Interesting Facts about India That Every Traveller Should Know

BY  Nabamita Jul 23, 2022

Welcome to the “Queen Of The Hills!” Darjeeling is one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. Hidden beneath the Lesser Himalayas, Darjeeling is an “abode of god.” Situated among the serenity of nature, it is a must places to visit in Darjeeling for some intoxicating time in nature’s lap. Travel Guide About Darjeeling NicknameThe Queen of the HillsDarjeeling Whole  Area3149 sq.kmLanguage SpokenNepali, Hindi, and BengaliPopular Places to VisitBatasia Loop, Tinchuley, Darjeeling Rock Garden,  Lepchajagat, Darjeeling Ropeway, Happy Valley Tea Estate, Tiger Hill, etc. Best Time to VisitApril-June to experience summer, October-January to experience winter. Popular Places to visit for couplesMirik, Love Road, Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Mall, Observatory Hill, Darjeeling Ropeway, Tea Gardens, Mahakal Temple, and Glenburn Estate. Top Religious Places Ghoom Monastery, St.Andrew’s Church,  Dali Monastery, Dhirdham Temple, Aloobari Monastery, etc.Top Things To DoTrekking, Shopping, River Rafting, Toy Tain Ride, Visit the Tea Garden, Camping, Explore the wildlife and flora, Mountaineering, etc. Darjeeling: Why Even Go There? Darjeeling is one of the biggest tourist destinations in India. Its natural beauty, perfect climate, and captivating mountain view are a few of the reasons to visit here. Darjeeling is a part of West Bengal and is located at a height of 2134 meters. It is a proud possession of West Bengal Tourism. The exotic flora, fauna, and chilly weather are a few reasons why it is named the “Queen of the Hills.” It is a perfect abode for trekkers and mountaineers. The view of the Kanchenjunga is spectacular from here. This spectacular view is what attracts a lot of tourists year-round in Darjeeling. However, Darjeeling has a lot more to offer tourists. From Darjeeling, you have access to most other hill stations such as Gangtok, Kalimpong, and many more. There are great places to visit in Gangtok, and Darjeeling is your starting point for that. Here is a list of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. 1. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute And Darjeeling Zoo The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute of Darjeeling is one of the best in the country. It exhibits the mountaineering gears from the early days along with certain artifacts. The Institute was built here in honor of Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa who accompanied Sir Edmund Hillary to climb Mt. Everest. They were the first to climb the tallest mountain in the world for the 1st time in 1953. All the mountaineering gear that the men used is also here in the Institute itself. There are souvenirs and a restaurant here on the premises for the tourists. Located beside the Institute on the same premises is the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. Here you can experience the best wildlife Darjeeling has to offer. Here you will find a number of exotic animals such as the Siberian Tiger, snow leopard, goral, Tibetan wolf, Himalayan black bear, and red panda. Timings: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm in Summer & 8:30 am to 4:00 pm in Winter. 2. Darjeeling Ropeway Opened in 1968, known as the Rangeet Valley Passenger Cable Car; from here, you can have the best view of Darjeeling. This was the first cable car system ever built in India. From the beautiful Tea Gardens to the majestic peak of the Kanchenjunga and the dense forest beneath it. You will be able to experience everything Darjeeling has to offer at once. Timings: 10:00am to 4:00pm (Winter and Monsoon), 10:00am to 2:00pm (Summer and Autumn). 3. Happy Valley Tea Estate Enjoy the lush greenery and the sweet taste of Darjeeling Tea. This is a 150 years old Tea Estate, one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. Although this is only the second oldest tea estate in Darjeeling, built in 1854, situated 2100 meters above sea level. Timings: Tuesday to Saturday- 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. 4. Senchal Lake And Wildlife Sanctuary This is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in India, set up in the year 1915. Situated about 11 kms away from Darjeeling town, it is a must-visit place in Darjeeling. Senchal Lake, which is situated within the wildlife, has the most beautiful picturesque view. For nature lovers and photographers, this is an ideal place. Here you will find a number of wildlife such as leopards, rhesus monkeys, and Himalayan black bears. Along with that, here, you will see a wide variety of exotic birds. 5. Shrubbery Nightingale Park If you are someone who loves flowers and exotic flora, then you must visit Shrubbery Nightingale Park. Here you will find beautiful flowers along with a majestic view of the Kanchenjunga mountain.  The park was totally destroyed during a massive earthquake in 1934; it was rebuilt to its former glory. It has pebblestone pathways, a musical fountain and benches to sit on. This park is among the best places to visit in Darjeeling. Timings: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Blooming Seasons: October and November. 6. Dhirdham Temple Another gorgeous tourist attraction is the Dhirdham Temple; it is a Hindu temple in Nepalese style. This is located just below the Toy Train station. This temple was built by the King of Nepal, Purna Bahadur Pradhan, in the year 1936. The temple has the idol of Lord Shiva. The idol is of white color, and Shiva is represented to have various expressions with his third eye. This temple has the architectural design of the Pashupatinath Temple of Kathmandu. Aarti Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Note That: Inside the temple premises, cameras are not allowed. 7. Darjeeling Mall And Chowrasta At the heart of Darjeeling town are the Darjeeling Mall and the Chowrasta. This is one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. It is the best places to hang out for both tourists and localities. Here you will find the best restaurants, shops, boutiques and cafes. This is a must-visit place in Darjeeling for anyone to visit. During the evening, you will find a lot of entertainment options here. Few of the best shops around here are Nathmulls Tea & Sunset Lounge, Curio Corner, Habeeb Mullick & Sons and the Jolly Arts & Bhutan Tibetan Art Shop. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 1. What Are The Nearest Railway Station And Airport To Darjeeling? The nearest railway station to Darjeeling is Darjeeling Railway station and Siliguri Railway Station. And the nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, located 70 km from Darjeeling. 2. What Is The Best Time To Plan A Holiday To Darjeeling? Depending on the season, you need to plan your trip here. If you are planning to visit during the summer for pleasant sightseeing you can visit from April-June.But if you are willing to experience the cold and with it wildlife, you can visit from October-December. 3. How Are The Accommodation Facilities For Tourists In Darjeeling? Darjeeling has a huge number of good quality accommodation facilities for tourists. No matter how you are traveling, big group, solo, as couple, or with family, there are options for all.From 5-star hotels to luxury resorts, pocket-friendly hotels, and even homestays, everything is present here in Darjeeling. Visit Now! Here I have pointed out the 7 best places in Darjeeling to visit, but there are more than 25 places to visit in Darjeeling, and Gangtok should be your next destination of choice. Darjeeling is a staple tourist destination for every Indian. It is the first place our parents took us to. It has a different emotion on my part. Read Also: Which Is The Best Time To Visit Auli? – Travel Guide Which Is The Largest Freshwater Lake In India? 10 Best Places To Visit In Sikkim

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 23, 2021

Found in 1052 by Anangpal Tomar, Delhi is one of the oldest and most ancient cities in India. Many also believe that the history of ancient Delhi goes back to 800 BCE when King Dhilu built it. Further, the tales of Mahabharata present Delhi as the capital of the Pandavas, Indraprastha. So, exploring the city's history is one of the best things to do in Delhi for first-time tourists. However, that’s not all! Every nook in Delhi offers you a unique cultural experience through street food and people. However, as a first-time traveler, you must seek a credible service for Delhi city tours. Despite the availability of public transportation, it will be safer and more convenient for you.   Check for certifications, licenses, and official registration of these service providers and then discuss the itinerary with them.  These Are The Top Things To Do In Delhi For First Time Tourists   Delhi is like a book, and every chapter has amazing stories, twists, and turns. Honestly, the things to do in Delhi can be overwhelming for a first-time tourist.  So, here, I have curated some places that will offer you an eclectic experience. These places will also offer you a slice of the Indian culture. So, you will know what to expect when you come back to this ancient yet modern city.   Visit the elaborate tomb of Humayun Entry Fee: INR 35 for Indians, INR 550 for Foreigners   Came as a precursor for the Taj Mahal, an inspiration for it as well, the Humayun Tomb ironically mixes the Persian architecture with precision and Indian craftsmanship. The tomb is picturesquely surrounded by symmetrical Mughal Gardens and displays the iconic and grand architectural heritage of the Mughals. For the best photos and scenic views, you should visit the tomb during the sunset when it is complement by the various vibrant colors of the sky. Explore Indian Art and Ancient Culture Entry Fee: INR 20 for Indians, INR 650 for Foreigners, Free for Students up to 12th Standard  The National Museum of Delhi is one of the largest museums in India with a huge collection of ancient Indian artifacts like sculptures, wood carvings, pottery, weapons, seals, coins, idols, archaeological remains, stupas, and many more. The artifacts from various major archeological excavations are preserved and put on display here at the National Museum. Its huge collection of 200000 artworks comprises artifacts of both Indian and foreign origin covering a history of about 5000 years. One of the best things to do in Delhi and India is to take a look at the Harappan Gallery, Maurya, Shunga and Satvahana Art Gallery, Gupta gallery, and Kushana Gallery to name a few popular art collections at the museum. Travel back in time with a stroll in Old Delhi Don’t get lost in the bazaars of Old Delhi, instead of travel back in time and take the steps and the path that a 17th-century detective takes in the Eighth Guest and Other Muzaffar Jang Mysteries written by Madhulika Liddle. Old Delhi has a unique mix of ancient structures from the Mughal era, which are almost in ruins while the historic parts stay well preserved, and modern buildings coexisting together. Taste Delhi’s Mouth-Watering Street Food Delhi is known for its delicious street food like chaat papri, panipuri (golgappas), parathas, kebabs, chole bhature, and pav bhaji. Some of the sweets that you must try are Dahi Bhalla, jalebis, and kulfi. But if you want to go full street-kid, you should definitely munch on the appetizing and healthy Chanan Zor Garam – something that is exclusively available on the streets. The street food only gets betters during monsoons as the pagodas bring new heat to your body and a delicious taste to your tongue. You can’t leave without trying its delicious food and not mention that it is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Delhi. Also check out the historic British colonial art at the National Gallery of Modern Art, a collection known as “Company Paintings”. They were made by the Indian artists to please the British masters. Go shopping No tour is complete without getting souvenirs back for friends and relatives to remind them that you travel but they don’t. All joking aside, buying clothes and other memorabilia which you can only get in the street bazaars of Delhi. From Baba Kharak Singh Marg to Connaught Place, there are many markets, stalls, craft stores, and ethnic wear in Dilli Haat to make for an all-around quick one-day shop stop. For many tourists, it is among the top list of things to do in Delhi. Experience the life of a prisoner This is an upcoming tourist attraction that hasn’t opened yet. But soon the largest prison in India, Tihar Jail is opening up its cells for tourism. Yep, you read that right. You will soon be able to pay money to go to jail, live in a prison, eating prison food, and work in the prison just like any other prisoner there. Forget about the costly and five-star resorts that Delhi has to offer and instead stay at the Prison Inn (not an official name). Don’t worry about safety though because the cells are separated from the violent inmates and criminals who “live” in the Jail. Of course, you will also be given prison clothes and will be treated like any other prisoner. Pay respect to Mahatma Gandhi at his Tomb M.K. Gandhi, also known as Mahatma Gandhi, is an important public figure, politician, and freedom fighter who brought peace and independence to India. Is it any wonder that India considers him as the Father of the Nation? He is known as the man who redefined the revolution by not partaking in violent acts and gave courage to the world by living his life according to his philosophy. Visit the tomb of Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat where a black marble stone was placed where his body’s cremation took place. Among the most peaceful things to do in Delhi, pay respect to the eternal flame and remember everything he did for this great nation. His tomb is made to represent what he was as a man – simple. Check out Lodi Garden, Qutub Minar, and Red Fort When you’re in town, you must not miss the historic monuments that the city has to offer. One of the must-do things in Delhi is checking out its historical forts and monuments including Qutub Minar, Red Fort, and Lodi Gardens. Lodi gardens are filled with historic monuments belonging to the Islamic Sayyid and Lodi dynasties. Meanwhile, Qutub Minar is a UNESCO inscribed World Heritage Site which a monument built by the founder of Delhi Sultanate, Qutb ud Din Aibak. The Red Fort was the first place where Jawaharlal Nehru hoisted the Indian tricolor flag after India got its independence. Don’t miss any of these amazing things in Delhi and check off all the entries on this list. To get the most of your stay, check out the complete travel guide to Delhi before you book flights or make any plans. Visit The India Gate  The India Gate, located near the Kartavya Path or the Rajpath, is one of the most prominent memorial sculptures in India. It is like the Arc-de-Triomphe in its architecture.   This iconic arch-like structure commemorates 70,000 soldiers from India sacrificing their lives for the British in World War I.   Further, under the arch, there is Amar Jawan Jyoti or an unextinguishable flame. It remembers the lives of Indian soldiers lost in the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971.   As the Sun sets, the India Gate looks amazing with floodlights. The nearby fountains add to the ambiance. Visiting the India Gate is a somber experience. A visit to the India Gate is essential if you want to share solidarity with the true spirit of the country.   Visit The Hauz Khas Hauz Khas literally translates to the Water Tank (Hauz) of the Royal (Khas). This quaint village in South Delhi is home to iconic institutes like the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), and Indian Institute of Foreign Trade.   Amidst the quaint and medieval structures of the place thrives a modern chic culture that began here in the 1980s.   Frequently Asked Questions!!! (FAQs): Q1: Where can I Spend a Whole Day in Delhi? Ans: There are many places you can choose to spend an entire day in Delhi, such as • Nehru park• Deer park• India gate lawns• National zoological park• Lodhi gardens• Badhkal lakes Q2: What are the Things not to do in Delhi? Ans: There are a few things that you should do and show respect while you are in Delhi.• Don’t break rules, laws.• Don’t disrespect anyone from any community, as Delhi is the capital of India, and there are many people from different cultures. • Don’t fight with anyone unnecessarily.  Read Also: 5 Must Visit Offbeat Destinations Near Delhi Top 10 Famous Wonders Of India

BY  Abdul Aziz Aug 4, 2018

The honeymoon practice started in the nineteenth century in Britain, when couples of the upper class went to bridal tours accompanied by friends and family to visit relatives. The popularity of this practice increases gradually. Currently, this practice is common among young couples in the world. Immediately after the wedding, couples go visiting exotic destinations. There is evidence that Indians tour foreign places for honeymoon. They ignore a lot of the best honeymoon places in India. Below are some of the places in India that you can visit on your honeymoon. 10 Best Honeymoon Places In India: 1. Darjeeling Found in West Bengal between the arms of lesser Himalayas, it bears the name of the queen of hills. Darjeeling is among the most peaceful and picturesque best honeymoon places in India, with a climate that is pleasantly cool, and the Kanchenjunga to frame the skyline. Close attractions include the sunrise from Batasia loop, Singamari ropeway, Tiger Hills, Peace Pagoda, and much more. There are other attractive activities like touring using the UNESCO world heritage toy train, paragliding, and rock climbing. While summer is the best time for going there, you can choose the winter months to visit the best honeymoon destinations in India. 2. Himachal Pradesh Shimla is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh and has been among the best honeymoon places in India. This is because of their snowy peaks, romantic climate, temples, churches, monasteries, the mall and British architecture, and plush mills. It is best to visit these places in summer and winter. There is also Manali and Kulu, a favorite of couples, with sprawling and greenery landscape. It is among the best destinations for a trip that is full of adventures like skiing, hiking, paragliding, mountaineering, trekking, and river rafting, angling, and biking from October to February. 3. Rajasthan For a trip that will leave you feeling royal, this destination is one of the best honeymoon places in India. Regal Udaipur has Havelis, temples, and palaces along rustic, crooked streets. You can cruise calm lakes in this destination. For a desert destination with elephant and camel rides and other things, you will find a majestic Jaisalmer. The other places you will visit are Jaipur, Mount Abu, Bikaner, and Jodhpur. 4. Tamil Nadu Be it a wildlife or spiritual couple, this is a destination to be. The January-May and October-November periods are best for visiting the Anaimalai tiger reserve, Valparaiso forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and national parks. You can begin spiritually at Ramana Ashram or Arunachala Temple during February – August. Ooty is found in Nilgiri hills with rose gardens, botanical gardens, Dodabetta peak, and Glen Morgan Tea garden for boating and angling. 5. Kutch Gujarat is a colorful, beautiful, and among the best honeymoon places in India where culture, architecture, and history meet guests. For newlyweds, this is the best destination for shopping and you will have an interest in traditional bags and mirror stoles, accessories, and furnishings that have Kutchi embroidery, and jewelry. The surroundings of Bhuj are great for shopping. You will also get wildlife sanctuaries and white-sand deserts that are colorful. 6. GOA Goa is a favorite for Bollywood when it comes to beauty and fun, providing a novel couple a memorable honeymoon with golden beaches, warm sun, swaying coconut palms, and endless sea. You will also find colonial Portuguese churches and buildings, and hilly places. Couples with adventure may choose water sports, wind, and deep-sea surfing. The party capital of India serves Goan sausages, best sea-food, pork vindaloo, and drinks at the shacks of the beach. You may choose this place as one of the best honeymoon places in India. 7. Uttarakhand For a couple that is adventurous, it is perfect to get to Auli in November-March for a honeymoon marked with speeding down snow peaks and ski workshops. For a calm and romantic couple, there is the beautiful and quaint Nainital, with aerial ropeway, lakes, the Jim Corbett National park, and much more. If you are planning for a honeymoon in India then you can visit them in the winter. For a romantic getaway, visit Mukhteshwar as it offers pears, apples, peaches, plums, and peaches from food and orchard farms, and excellent chocolates in the mountains. 8. Kashmir And Jammu   Srinagar, the state capital, offers lakes that are perfect places for honeymoon in India as they have valleys lush and sparkling ripples that are heavenly, and mountains. The best honeymoon places in India are coveted as they have Mughal gardens and houseboats. Winter offers unforgettable caves, temples, and forts. 9. Nicobar And Andaman Islands The idea of going to the best honeymoon places in India on an island is very romantic. Be it in winter or summer, Nicobar and Andaman Islands are among the best honeymoon destinations in India. It is private and exotic, with the best fauna and flora, from hills and jungle life to colorful sunken ships and fish, plus accommodation and great food. 10. Kerala   Kerala unleashes itself in diverse beautiful ways, be it in winter or summer months, and is in high demand when it comes to choosing places for honeymoon in India. For a sunbath that is relaxing, you will get to Kovalam beach. For a cruise of romance, you can get to Munnar, Alleppey, and Wayanad found in the hills for a deserved visit during the wonderful moments. You can choose Kerala as one of the best honeymoon places in India and enjoy your holiday with your soulmate. As a couple, you can explore backwaters with an interconnected network of rivers, canals, and lakes in the houseboats or even discover hidden treasures found in Kerala. If you desire to go to a traditional holiday, the one that is complete with vegetation that is thick, different biology, and the rural culture gentleness, Kerala has it all. Conclusion For each newlywed couple, the honeymoon is a very crucial aspect of the whole thing. The prolonged occasion of elaborate weddings and the preparations, plus the anxiety of starting newfangled life with a new-fangled person, it may leave you somewhat stressed and drained. In this state of mind, the best honeymoon places in India are perfect for relaxing and knowing one another. Read Also : Top 10 Places to Visit in Singapore 7 Key points Remember while Planning Your Honeymoon Trip Best National Parks In Missouri