Eternal Magnificence: Why The Taj Mahal Reigns As The World’s Most Popular Monument

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  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 Jan 30, 2020

If you are traveling to India for the first time, you’ll for sure feel a little bit overwhelmed, confused and excited at the same time. Adjusting to the culture shock, frenetic energy and diversity will take some time. But worry not, once you get used to the Indian ways, you’ll develop a special bond with this place that will urge you to come back again and again. If you are travelling to India, here are a few facts about India to keep in mind before and while you are on your trip: Craziest Things To Know If You Are Traveling To India For The First Time Indian travel reaches a new high in the first quarter of 2024. Indian airports have enjoyed the footfall of around 376 million passengers. Further, 69.6 million in this traffic were international passengers.  Moreover, the numbers show a massive improvement compared to 2019. Also, there is a 15% growth from the records in 2023. These numbers show why traveling in India is so huge this year. So, it is no surprise that you are planning a trip to India this year. Is this the first time for you to visit this land of spirituality? Keep some smart tips handy to avoid travel hassles. 1. EXPLORE A PLACE AND TAKE YOUR TIME When you are traveling to India for the first time, don’t hop from one place to another too soon because then you won’t really get a feel of the real India and experience the place deeply. Take your time with a place. Stay there for a few days. Also, visit different sites in that place, get to know the local people and traditions of the place, and relish the experience. For example, if you go to Kerala in South India, then stay there for at least 9 -10 days, exploring the local food and culture and different festivals.Many top-notch yoga retreats in India are also held in Kerala. If you want to experience the true spiritual gift of India, that is, yoga and meditation, you can attend a yoga and meditation retreat or a yoga teacher training course in one of the best yoga schools in Kerala. 2. EXPLORE MORE THAN JUST THE CITIES The real beauty of India lies not only in the cities of India but also in the cities in the natural world. The forests, the majestic mountains, the motherly rivers, the gorgeous oceans, the pristine beaches, and the divine landscapes will surely give you the experience of a lifetime. Travel to the Himalayas in north India, the beaches of south India, the Western Ghats, and the Mangrove forests in the east and experience a deeper connection with Mother Nature. 3. DRESS ACCORDINGLY In most parts of India, the dress code is Indian sarees and traditional Indian clothes though many people in the cities wear western clothing as well. Please wear clothes that cover your body appropriately, especially when you are visiting the rural parts of India, temples, mosques, etc. It is also a custom in India to open your shoes outside while visiting a temple or a religious site. 4. RESPECT THE INDIAN PEOPLE AND THE INDIAN CULTURE Most Indians are very warm-hearted, which is truly one of the best qualities of Indian people. They are welcoming and love it when people from around the world visit the country. Be respectful to the Indian people and Indian culture. The Indian people will greet you with warmth and acceptance. Make sure you can be humble and return the same. 5. BE PREPARED TO EXPLORE DEEP SPIRITUALITY One of the most well-known facts about India is that it is the origin of yoga and meditation. Many top-level yoga and meditation schools offer yoga retreats in India. If you genuinely want to feel the deep spiritual connection of India and want to learn the ancient art of yoga and meditation, then you can enroll yourself in one of the best yoga schools in India. Some of the best yoga schools of India are in Kerala in South India and Rishikesh in North Indian at the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains. 6. KEEP AN OPEN MIND Keeping an open mind is a great way to travel the land of India as you will see things that you did not expect to, like children asking for food while you are stuck in traffic. “In the 2023 Global Hunger Index, India ranks 111th out of the 125 countries with sufficient data to calculate 2023 GHI scores. With a score of 28.7 in the 2023 Global Hunger Index, India has a level of hunger that is serious.” 7. AVOID PDA Avoid public displays of affection towards your partners, as this is not a common thing in the culture of India. Avoid kissing and excess public display of affection as a respect for the Indian culture 8. TRY OUT THE INDIAN FOOD You will find all kinds of foods, dishes, and cuisines in India that will relish your taste buds. You can try out the North Indian dishes, the south Indian dishes, and the local food of whichever place you travel to. Be mindful of the water you are consuming and make sure it is purified. Most places have clean water to drink, but it is advised to be mindful. 9. GET A SIM CARD Getting a sim card would be helpful as you can use the internet to have easy navigation through the landscapes of India. A sim card will allow you to navigate google maps, best restaurants, and make calls to your home country. Though only Indians can buy a SIM card in India, you can ask your trusted Indian friend to buy you a SIM card. There are also special provisions for sim cards for foreigners. 10. UNDERSTAND THE UNSPOKEN INDIAN LANGUAGE Indians communicate a lot without words and just simple hand gestures or head nods. The classic Indian head nod is one of the most common communication methods in India. Usually, it means yes or no, depending on the context. Understanding the unspoken Indian language can make your trip interesting and can be helpful too. 11. BEWARE OF PICKPOCKETS While this advice applies to many places around the globe, it is always a good idea to keep your cash, cards, and belongings safe, especially in the populated cities of India. 12. FIND A TRUSTWORTHY INDIAN FRIEND WHO CAN GUIDE YOU It is also wise to have a trustworthy Indian friend who can help you out in a foreign country and guide you in case you are confused about something. Knowing someone trustworthy and intelligent in India who can help out is also an advantage. 13. DO YOUR RESEARCH Do a good in-depth research of India and the places that call out to you the most in India. India is a vast country, and it is not advised to cover the whole country in one short trip. Do your research and see which places you feel the most drawn to and then make a detailed itinerary of your trip. 14. KEEP YOUR CALM Scamsters, touts, etc. often target foreigners to make some quick bucks by simply luring them with good deals which are not in fact, good deals. You’ll come across different people (agents, cab drivers, etc.) who’ll insist on giving you the best deals (maybe hotel charges, tour packages). But don’t lose your head over these things. Simply keep your calm and try to show them that you know better. Slowly you’ll learn the tricks to handle such people. 15. DON'T HESITATE TO BARGAIN Indian markets are colorful and have some beautiful things like leather bags, clothes, artifacts, and so much more that you can buy. However, some shop keepers give a higher price to those traveling from another country. Don’t be afraid to bargain and get a reasonable price for your purchase. Sharpen your bargaining skills and have fun with it. Is India Safe To Travel For Women? (Most) Important Things To Know Before Traveling To India For The First Time As I write this article, the cry of #JusticeforRGKar becomes more prominent to me. A month has passed since the rape and murder of a lady PG doctor of the Pulmonology department in the R G Kar Medical College and Hospital. Kolkata is the capital city of West Bengal, a state in the eastern part of India.  There is still a protest going on, and people from all walks of life are participating in it with a suspicion of state machinery’s involvement in the case. Further, it aches my heart, but I have to mention that Delhi experienced one of the heinous acts of rape and murder a few years back in the form of the Nirbhaya case.  People across borders are aware of these incidents today. So, the question of women’s safety while traveling to India is obvious. Further, if we look at the Booking.com travel predictions for 2024, we can see that 54% of women will likely embrace solo travel instead of a couple or group trip.  Nevertheless, let’s get back to the question here, and allow me to assure you that India is fairly safe for women travelers.  The data from the “National Commission for Women” and “National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)” are not-so-pleasing. I don’t want to share the figures, either! However, the women-only travel groups are making it easier for every woman traveling to India for the first time or even for the 100th time.  The WOW Club, or Women on Wanderlust, and Women On Clouds Club, or WOC, are two of the most popular women-only travel groups in India. So, as Hannah goes for a girl trip with her mother in “Girls,” get ready for traveling to India for the first time!  Read Also: 8 Amazing Things To Do In Delhi For First Time Tourists Complete Guide For A Pleasant Agra Tour The Easy Way To Travel In India Top Most Expensive Hotels Of India To Enjoy And Stay Your Holidays