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How To Use This
Travel Guide?
It’s easy-peasy as pie!
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INDIA Don’t worry! Just click on the destinations No problem! Just print the pages you
on the cover or the Contents page, and you’ll want and keep them in your wallet.
be instantly directed to the page.
Interactive maps for easy navigation

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want to keep it forever & ever!
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erview rs.
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LEGEND (Activities)
Beach Culture Handicrafts
Heritage History Nature Nightlife Outdoor

& Animals
Relaxation Shopping Spa Swimming
Sight- Walks Water

seeing & Hikes Sports
4 | ©AirAsia Berhad 2015. All rights reserved.

CONTENTS
How To Use This Guide 3
Overview 4
India Map 6
India Infographic 8
BENGALURU 10
CHANDIGARH 16
CHENNAI 20
NEW DELHI 24
Special Feature
Dancing Through the Millennia 28
GOA 30
GUWAHATI 34
HYDERABAD 39
JAIPUR 43
KOCHI 47
KOLKATA 51
Special Feature
A Journey for the Mind, Body & Soul 56
PUNE 58
TIRUCHIRAPPALLI 62
VISAKHAPATNAM 66
Transportation 70
Travel Tips 72
Chennai Airport Map 74
klia2 Airport Map 76
Calendar of Events 80
Route Map 84
Information in this guide is correct at press time and is subject to

change without prior notice.
©AirAsia Berhad 2015. All rights reserved. | 5

MAP OF
INDIA
POPULATION TIME ZONE
1.27 billion UTC +5:30
CURRENCY TELEPHONE
Indian Rupee (INR) CODE
+91
ELECTRIC
SOCKET LAND AREA
3.28 million km2
220-240 Volt
WEATHER RELIGION
India’s climate varies widely from arid Hinduism is the dominant religion
to alpine to tropical. Summer followed by Islam and Christianity.
(Apr-Jun) can be sweltering hot, Religions that originated in India
followed by rainy monsoon (Sep-Oct). are Jainism, Sikhism and Buddhism.
The high tourist season is during the
cooler, dry period (Nov-Mar).
INDIA BY NUMBERS
#
1 नमस्ते
15 major
languages
नमस्कार
32
1600+
নমস্কার UNESCO World
Heritage Sites
including the Taj Mahal, built
வணக்கம் between 1631 and 1648, which
Producer and consumer languages and dialects receives millions of visitors per year.
of mangoes in the world
73 % $ 66.4 1200 +
films produced per year
2 nd
Longest road
network in the world
million
2.69 4 th
Combined total earnings
of the 5 highest paid
of the Himalayas cricketers in the world, billion Longest railway
are in India all from India cinema admission in 2013 network in the world
TOP FESTIVALS
DIWALI HOLI
DURGA PUJA MYSORE DASARA CHRISTMAS RAMZAN ID

INDIAN INVENTIONS
SHAMPOO YOGA CHESS
BUTTONS AYURVEDA
BENGALURU
OR
Kempegowda International Airport
(45 mins bus) → RM Guttahalli
India’s Silicon Valley is not only home to some of the (10 mins autorickshaw) →
country’s biggest IT firms but also a vibrant hub for Bangalore Palace
shopping and nightlife. Step away from the modern-day CONTACT
offerings and indulge in the city’s beautiful parks and Tourist Information Centre
fascinating architecture – part of this rapidly changing Bengaluru City Railway Station
garden city on the Deccan Plateau, known for making +918022870068
every visitor feel right at home. www.karnatakatourism.org/Bangalore
ACTIVITIES
BANGALORE PALACE
Step into England – in a parallel universe. Built in 1884 and later

acquired by Mysore royalty, the Tudor-style palace is often compared to FANS SUGGEST
Windsor Castle. The interiors are inspired by various periods and feature Ask your driver to wait for you at
everything from nude paintings to all manner of insignia. the entrance as it is a long walk
to the main road. Bring a photo
ID as deposit for the audio guide
ADMISSION Indian INR 225, Foreigner INR 450. Still camera INR 675,
included in the entrance fee.
camcorder INR 1405.
HOW
Kempegowda International Airport (50 mins taxi) → Bangalore Palace

BENGALURU
The Glass House at Lal

Bagh Gardens
LAL BAGH GARDENS MG ROAD + BRIGADE ROAD +

RESIDENCY ROAD
The sprawling 240-acre Mughal-
style garden, established in 1760 If you’re looking for a good
by the Mysore emperor Hyder Ali, time, the winning triumvirate of
is the city’s foremost green lung MG Road, Brigade Road and
and is especially beautiful in spring. Residency Road is the obvious
Have a pleasant stroll along the choice as it is the most happening
manicured paths to view India’s area in the city, where the young
largest tropical plant collection and and trendy flock into bars, pubs
snap wonderful macro shots during and clubs.
the popular biannual flower shows!
Fancy a carriage ride at Bangalore Palace?
ADMISSION Depends on venue
ADMISSION Adult INR 10, Child
SUNDAY SOUL SANTE FREE. Separate entry fee for flower HOW
shows. Kempegowda International Airport
Kitschy handicrafts, eclectic
(1 hr taxi) → Brigade Road
accessories and live music – HOW
everything a hipster ever wants Kempegowda International Airport
from a flea market! Whether you CONTACT
(1 hr taxi) → Lal Bagh Gardens Tourist Information Centre
are looking for a one-of-a-kind
print T-shirt or you’re just there OR Bengaluru City Railway Station
to have beer with your friends, Bengaluru International Airport (45 +918022870068
nobody can deny the riot of sights mins bus) → Maharani College/KR www.karnatakatourism.org/Bangalore
and sound at Sunday Soul Sante. Circle (20 mins bus) → Lal Bagh
Gardens ACTIVITIES
ADMISSION INR 100
CONTACT
CONTACT Horticulture Department
Sunday Soul Sante Lal Bagh Road, Mavalli FANS SUGGEST
www.facebook.com/ +918026578184 Some of the clubs to watch out
sundaysoulsante www.horticulture.kar.nic.in for: i-Bar the Park, Amnesia, No
Limmits, Hint and Sphyre.
ACTIVITIES ACTIVITIES
SMART TIP FUN FACT!

Sunday Soul Sante is held five The Glass House, built at the end
times a year in various venues of the 19th century, was modelled
such as Palace Grounds and after the Crystal Palace in London.
Manpho Convention Centre.
BENGALURU
KRISHNARAJENDRA (KR) CITY

MARKET
Bengaluru’s oldest and busiest

market is packed with crowds
and mounds of flowers, produce,
and religious powder. Come early
in the morning to experience the
full sensory overload in the city’s
Muslim quarter.
ADMISSION FREE
HOW
(1 hr mins taxi) → KR Market
OR
(50 mins bus) → Maharani
College/High Ground Police Station
(15 mins bus) → KR Market

CONTACT
Tourist Information Centre
Bengaluru City Railway Station
+918022870068
www.karnatakatourism.org/
Bangalore
ACTIVITIES
FUN FACT!
Krishnarajendra Market, named
The Vidhana Soudha is a Bengaluru landmark after the Maharaja of Mysore,
is located in the area where the
first lightbulb in Bengaluru was
VIDHANA SOUDHA AND HIGH COURT Kempegowda International lit in 1905.
OF KARNATAKA Airport (1 hr bus) → JC Nagar/
Contonment Railway Station (25
Two magnificent landmarks stand
across each other on the fringes mins bus) → Vidhana Soudha and
of Cubbon Park: the massive seat High Court of Karnataka
of Karnataka state legislature
and the red neoclassical court of CONTACT
appeals. While both are closed to Tourist Information Centre
visitors, the sheer scale and the Bengaluru City Railway Station
authority within these great halls +918022870068
put them high on the list of must- www.karnatakatourism.org/
sees in Bengaluru. Bangalore
ADMISSION No entry to public ACTIVITIES
HOW
(1 hr taxi) → Vidhana Soudha and FUN FACT!
High Court of Karnataka Vidhana Soudha was completed
OR in 1956 after four years of
construction by 5,000 labourers
and 1,500 masons and carvers.
BENGALURU
ISKCON TEMPLE
Bengaluru’s Hare Krishna temple

is one of the most impressive
ISKCON temples in the world,
frequented by thousands of
devotees daily. Be awed by the
unique glass-and-gopuram
architecture as well as the fervour
of the worshippers at services that
go on almost all day long.
ADMISSION FREE. Fees

applicable for offerings and other
services.
HOW
(1 hr taxi) → ISKCON Temple
OR
(1 hr bus)→ GKVK Gate (50 mins
bus) → ISKCON Temple
CONTACT
ISKCON Sri Radha Krishnachandra
Temple
Hare Krishna Hill, Chord Road
+918023578625
www.iskconbangalore.org
The scalloped arches and pillars of Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace ACTIVITIES
TIPU SULTAN’S SUMMER PALACE ACTIVITIES
The quiet summer residence of FANS SUGGEST!

the 18th century Mysore ruler There are worship services
Tipu Sultan is renowned for its throughout the day from 4am to
FANS SUGGEST! 1pm and 4pm to 8:45pm, but the
lovely teak arches and columns, a
Make a detour to the remains of shringara darshan at 7:15am and
startling contrast with the chaos of
Bangalore Fort, a 16th century the shayana arati at 8:15pm are
nearby KR City Market.
mud fort later turned into a stone the most ceremonial and exciting
fortress, the site of Tipu Sultan’s moments.
ADMISSION Indian INR 5, last stand against Lord Cornwallis
Foreigner INR 100. of the British East India Company.
HOW ISKCON Temple of Bengaluru is dedicated to Lord Krishna

Kempegowda International
Airport (1 hr taxi) → Lal Bagh
Gardens
OR
(50 mins bus) → Maharani
College/KR Circle (10 mins bus) →
Lal Bagh Gardens
CONTACT
Tourist Information Centre
Bengaluru City Railway Station
+918022870068
www.karnatakatourism.org/
Bangalore
BENGALURU
The Jayamarthanda
MYSORE Gate, the main gate
of Mysore Palace,
The Wodeyar dynasty, which ruled is where the
the Kingdom of Mysore for almost Dasara elephants
six centuries, were patrons of art are traditionally
received
and culture. Little wonder, then, that
Mysore is Karnataka state’s city of
culture and one of India’s most visited
cities for its splendid Mysore Palace,
the grand colonial architecture, over a
dozen museums and the popular zoo.
ADMISSION Variable, depending

on the attraction
HOW
(3.5 hrs taxi) → Mysore
OR
(4 hrs Flybus) → Mysore
CONTACT
Karnataka Regional Tourist Office ACTIVITIES FUN FACT!
Old Exhibition Road, Mysore The city is at its best during the
+91 08 2122096 10-day Dasara Festival centred
Kasturba Road, near Cubbon Park on Mysore Palace, which is
+91 80 22866200 illuminated with nearly 100,000
www.karnatakatourism.org/Mysore/en lights nightly from 7pm to 10pm.
BISI BELE BATH Typical but never
EAT
Karnataka’s signature dish of short boring: dosa
grain rice, lentils, and over a dozen and sambar for
spices is a complete South Indian breakfast.
vegetarian meal.
DOSA
Bangalorean breakfast and snacks
are better with dosa, a crispy crepe
served with sambar and chutney
at hundreds of eateries around the
city. Try out the curry-free version
with just butter and sugar, just the
way kids like it.
RECOMMENDED
STAYS
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p
Goa 14x weekly INR 1295 Sign u
Kochi 14x weekly INR 1106 Vivanta By Taj Yeshwantpur

Jaipur 14x weekly INR 3303
ITC Windsor Bengaluru
Chandigarh 7x weekly INR 3303
Pune 7x weekly INR 1741
New Delhi 14x weekly INR 3272
Kuala Lumpur 4x weekly MYR 325.08 BOOK NOW
BENGALURU
Mysore Palace is also known as

the Amba Vilasa Palace
ITINERARY
3 DAYS OF
BUSTLING BENGALURU
The historical palace of Mysore
Pushkarni (stepped bathing well) of

Bhoganandishwara Temple
Brigade Road is one of the busiest

commercial centres in Bengaluru
DAY DAY DAY
1 2 3
MORNING-AFTERNOON MORNING MORNING-AFTERNOON
Massive and Marvellous The Garden Route The Grand Safari
Marvel at the range of architecture Get out and experience bursts of Go on a jeep safari to see lions,
in Bengaluru. colour and life en route to the park. tigers, bears and other wildlife!
• ISKCON Temple • Lal Bagh Botanical Garden • Bannerghatta National Park

• Bangalore Palace • Bull Temple
• Vidhana Soudha and High • Basavana Gudi Market OR
Court
• Cubbon Park AFTERNOON DAY 3 ONWARDS
Royals and Commoners Magical Mysore
EVENING Hills of flowers, coloured powder, Test your bargaining skills and
Buy! Buy! Buy! produce and everything you can come home with the latest trends.
imagine.
Walk along these famous shopping • Mysore Palace
streets and pick up a trinket or 10. • Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace • Mysore Zoo
• KR City Market • Lalitha Mahal
• MG Road • Chickpet • St. Philomena’s Church
• Brigade Road
• Commercial Street

CHANDIGARH
Colourful statues at Nek Chand Rock Garden

Considered the best-planned city in India, Chandigarh CC BY 2.0 Giridhar Appaji Nag Y
is often called ‘The City Beautiful’. It is adorned with
artistically beautiful gardens, parks, and avant-garde
ADMISSION Adult INR 10,
buildings. The master plan of the city was prepared by
Camera INR 5
Le Corbusier, one of the most celebrated architects in
modern history. HOW
Chandigarh Airport (20 mins taxi)
→ Le Corbusier Centre
NEK CHAND ROCK GARDEN ACTIVITIES CONTACT

Le Corbusier Centre
Sprawled over the course of 30 acres, Old Architect Building, Madhya
the Nek Chand Rock Garden invites Marg
you to enjoy the winding paths, FUN FACT! Sector 19B, Sector 19,
man-made waterfalls, well-manicured What started as a leisure project Chandigarh, 160019
landscapes, as well as the stars of the for Nek Chand, who worked on
garden—statues and sculptures that +911722777077
the garden at night, has turned
were made from recycled materials into an icon of Chandigarh. It was chandigarhtourism.gov.in/lcc
such as metal wires, porcelain, auto even commemorated on a stamp
parts, handle bars, frames, and more. in 1983. ACTIVITIES

INR 3 LE CORBUSIER CENTRE
FUN FACT!
A museum dedicated to the man
HOW One of the world’s most renowned
behind the city’s iconic design.
Chandigarh Airport (30 mins taxi) architects, Le Corbusier used
Aimed to preserve and celebrate
→ Nek Chand Rock Garden this building as an office to
the legacy of Le Corbusier, the
conceptualise and prepare the
museum showcases the story
CONTACT master plan for Chandigarh almost
behind the development of
six decades ago.
Uttar Marg, Sector 1 Chandigarh, his other architectural
Chandigarh, 160010 works, inspiring quotes, as well as
+91172740645 furniture designs.
nekchand.com
CHANDIGARH
CONTACT
Fragrance Garden Rd
Sector 36, Chandigarh, 160036
chandigarhtourism.gov.in
ACTIVITIES
FANS SUGGEST
Twilight at Sukhna Lake CC BY 2.0 ptwo Bring your running or walking
shoes and come here in the
morning to enjoy the lovely
SUKHNA LAKE HOW jogging path.
Chandigarh Airport (25 mins taxi) →
With the majestic Himalayan Government Museum and Art Gallery
mountains as the backdrop, INTERNATIONAL DOLLS MUSEUM
Sukhna Lake is a man-made lake CONTACT
created in 1958. You can enjoy the This little museum showcases
River Road a pretty impressive collection of
scenic view, have a lovely picnic,
or enjoy paddling a boat around Jan Marg, Sector 10 C dolls, including beautiful Indian
the lake. Chandigarh, 160011 bride dolls and those from various
+911722742010 tribes in India. There are also
ADMISSION FREE chandigarhtourism.gov.in dolls from other countries such
as South Korea, Russia, Spain,
Germany, Denmark, and the
HOW ACTIVITIES Netherlands.
→ Sukhna Lake
Camera INR 5
CONTACT SMART TIP
Chandigarh Tourism Free guided tours are available at
11am, 12pm, 3pm and 4pm daily. HOW
chandigarhtourism.gov.in
→ International Dolls Museum
ACTIVITIES GARDEN OF FRAGRANCE
CONTACT
Sweet-smelling plants and flowers
adorn this beautiful garden located International Dolls Museum
FUN FACT! in Sector 36. Those looking to Bal Bhawan, Udyog Path, 23C
During winter, the lake becomes a take a break from touring and Sector 23-C, Chandigarh, 160023
sanctuary for migratory birds such as visiting museums will find this chandigarhtourism.gov.in
storks, cranes, and Siberian ducks. place relaxing as there are not a
lot of visitors. It is also perfect as a
ACTIVITIES
picnic spot!
GOVERNMENT MUSEUM
AND ART GALLERY ADMISSION FREE
SMART TIP
This museum presents a collection HOW There’s a toy train ride inside the
of the development and rise Chandigarh Airport (25 mins taxi) museum that kids will absolutely love!
of Chandigarh, complete with → Garden of Fragrance
prehistoric artefacts, ancient
art and sculptures, textiles, and
currency. Some of the most
memorable items include Pahari
and Rajasthan miniature paintings,
as well as Ghandaran sculptures.

Children and Senior Citizen FREE,
Camera INR 5
Government Museum and Art Gallery CC BY 2.0 ptwo

CHANDIGARH
CAPITOL COMPLEX CONTACT

Capitol Complex
The Capitol Complex consists
Sector 1 Chandigarh, 160001
of architectural masterpieces
designed by Le Corbusier: the chandigarhtourism.gov.in
Tower of Shadows, the Secretariat,
the High Court, and the Legislative ACTIVITIES
Assembly buildings. Located
at the centre of the complex is
‘The Open Hand’, a giant metal
hand sculpture that is the official FUN FACT!
emblem of Chandigarh. The sprawling complex is often
described as the temples of
ADMISSION FREE
democracy of free India.
HOW
The Open Hand sculpture, a symbol of Chandigarh Airport (30 mins taxi)
Chandigarh
→ Capitol Complex
BUY
& EAT
Sarson Ka Saag, a vegetable dish
made from mustard leaves, spinach,
ghee, and maize flour. Top it with a
A bowl of delicious and healthy Sarson Ka Saag
dollop of creamy butter, and you’ve
got yourself a very satisfying meal!
LASSI
Indian juttis -perfect to bring home as A delicious and refreshing yogurt-
souvenirs! based drink. You can order salty
lassi, sweet lassi, and even fruity
BUY lassi such as mango and banana.
PHULKARI DUPPATAS
If you’re looking to buy something
unique to Chandigarh, get your RECOMMENDED
hands on some phulkari duppatas, a STAYS
Punjabi long scarf that is embellished Have a sip of yummy mango lassi!
with finely crafted embroidery work. WelcomHotel Bella Vista
EAT
JUTTI Regenta Central Ashok
MAKKAI KI ROTI & SARSON KA SAAG Chandigarh
Available in multi colours and patterns, Makkai Ki Roti is flat bread made
jutti is traditional Indian footwear for from corn flour. It is best eaten with Taj Chandigarh
men and women. It is usually made
from leather and embroidered with
KC Hotel & Spa
pretty threads and beads.
Earn
oints
BIG Pree JW Marriott Hotel Chandigarh
HOW TO GET TO CHANDIGARH for f .
flightsnow!
p
From Frequency Fare From Sign u
Bengaluru 7x weekly INR 3550 BOOK NOW

CHANDIGARH
Sukhna Lake
ITINERARY
3 DAYS IN CHANDIGARH
Horse statues at Nek Chand Rock Garden
Nek Chand
Rock Garden
Capitol Complex’s Palace of the Assembly

demonstrates Le Corbusier‘s architectural
philosophies with its open style CC BY-SA
2.0 Dave Morris
DAY DAY DAY
1 2 3
MORNING MORNING MORNING
Hello, Chandigarh! Visit the ‘head’ of Chandigarh Morning chill at the gardens
• Nek Chand Rock Garden • The Open Hand Statue • Rose Garden
• Capitol Complex
AFTERNOON AFTERNOON
Museum visit AFTERNOON Learn the story behind India’s ‘best-
An afternoon with nature planned city’
• Government Museum and Art
Gallery • Picnic and leisurely stroll at the • Corbusier Centre
• International Dolls Museum Garden of Fragrance
EVENING EVENING
Catching the sunset Shop till you drop
• Sukhna Lake • Sector 17

CHENNAI
Marina Beach is an urban beach, which

means fun is always around the corner for
the local Chennaites
You can see the great
gopuram
even from afar.
Chennai is rich with art and traditions, with Bharata Natyam
and Tamil Nadu music being the pride and joy of the fourth
largest city in India. As the largest commercial centre of
South India, it has everything you would expect to find in
a major metropolitan city, from shopping malls to cultural
centres – the perfect gateway to your Indian adventure.
MARINA BEACH ACTIVITIES ADMISSION FREE
Marina Beach is synonymous with HOW

Chennai and its most popular Chennai International Airport (25
tourist attraction. Walk along the mins taxi) → Kapaleeshwarar
13-km beach, the second longest LOCAL INSIGHTS!
Locals go here either for a morning Temple
in the world, and watch interesting
colonial buildings come into view. stroll or to shop and eat at the
stalls along the beach. Swimming CONTACT
is prohibited because of the strong Tamil Nadu Tourism
ADMISSION FREE current, but there are swimming No. 2 Wallajah Road, Chennai
pools nearby for a pleasant dip.
HOW +914425368358
Chennai International Airport (30 www.tamilnadutourism.org
mins taxi) → Marina Beach
KAPALEESHWARAR TEMPLE
ACTIVITIES
CONTACT Get blown away by the temple’s
Tamil Nadu Tourism huge gopuram (towering entrance)
No. 2 Wallajah Road, Chennai with its intricate and colourful
+914425368358 details. This is one of the seven FANS SUGGEST!
www.tamilnadutourism.org greatest temples in Chennai and is Try to come to the temple early in
considered to be one of the oldest the morning to avoid the heat and
Shiva temples in the city. the crowd of devotees.
CHENNAI
The grand neo- Vivekananda House is also known as

Gothic façade of Vivekananda Illam in Tamil
the basilica
VIVEKANANDA HOUSE
The historical place where Swami

Vivekananda, a Hindu monk who
helped to introduce Yoga and
Vedanta to the Western world,
stayed during his stint in Chennai
in 1897, this building continues
to be one of the most important
BASILICA OF THE NATIONAL spiritual centres of the city.
SHRINE OF ST. THOMAS
This magnificent Neo-Gothic church (4-12 years old) INR 5
is built over the tomb of St. Thomas
and houses a relic of the apostle,
who is believed to have brought HOW Many of the buildings here are over 100
Christianity to India in 52 AD. Chennai International Airport (30 years old!
mins taxi) → Vivekananda House
ADMISSION Indian Adult iNR
ADMISSION FREE 15; Foreigner Adult INR 250, Child
CONTACT
INR 125, Bona fide students and
HOW Vivekananda House
Marina Beach Road, Chennai teachers with prior permission INR
Chennai International Airport 75
(25 mins taxi) → Basilica of the +914428446188
National Shrine of St. Thomas www.vivekanandahouse.org
HOW
CONTACT ACTIVITIES Chennai International Airport (25
Basilica of the National Shrine of mins taxi) → Chennai Museum
St. Thomas
Santhome High Road, Chennai CONTACT
Chennai Museum
+914424980758 LOCAL INSIGHTS! Pantheon Road, Chennai
www.santhomechurch.com If you’re up for it, join the +914428193238
meditation class held every www.chennaimuseum.org
Wednesday night at 7pm.
ACTIVITIES
CHENNAI MUSEUM ACTIVITIES
Established in 1851, it is the

LOCAL INSIGHTS! second oldest museum in India. FUN FACT!
Located on a hill, it is a great The museum boasts a great The museum grounds hosted
vantage point to view the city, collection with various themed Chennai’s first zoo in 1855 before
including the airport. Come and exhibits including archaeology, it was moved to the People’s Park.
watch the airplanes taking off. zoology, botany and geology.

CHENNAI
ARIGNAR ANNA ZOOLOGICAL PARK
The largest zoological park in India

brims with 2,500 species of flora
(from gooseberry to intsia) and fauna
(from Indian bullfrog to lion). It is an
ideal place for an educational family
outing and relaxing picnics.
It may be the smallest national park in ADMISSION Adult INR 30,

the country, but it is home to wildlife, Meet the king of the jungle Child (5-12 years) INR 10, Below 5
including around 2,000 spotted deer. at the zoological park!
years FREE, Camera/Mobile Phone
with Camera/Tablet Computers with
GUINDY NATIONAL PARK CONTACT Camera INR 25, Camcorder INR 150
Tamil Nadu Forest Department
The national park is a great Panagal Maaliga Saidapet,
green getaway that’s within HOW
Chennai
the city itself! Come and Chennai International Airport
+914424348059
get acquainted with lush (25 mins taxi) → Arignar Anna
www.forests.tn.nic.in/
landscapes, unique vegetation Zooligical Park
wildbiodiversity/np_gnp.html
and rare wildlife here in this
small but fulfilling national park. CONTACT
ACTIVITIES Arignar Anna Zooligical Park
ADMISSION Adult INR 15, Vandalur, India
Child (under 10 years old) FREE +914422751089
www.aazoopark.in
HOW FANS SUGGEST!
Chennai International Airport (25 En route to the national park, drop
mins taxi) → Guindy National Park by the Guindy Snake Park located ACTIVITIES
nearby to see King Cobras, pythons,
vipers, crocodiles and turtles.
BUY international brands within modern
BUY
and comfortable surroundings.
GEORGE TOWN
& EAT
One of the busiest spots in the EAT
city where shops and traditional
vendors in the backstreets offer VIRUNDHU SAPPADU
specialty merchandise. More than 20 items rolled into one
festive meal served on banana
EXPRESS AVENUE MALL leaves, usually consisting of
Touted as the largest shopping centre idiyappam (string hoppers), chicken
in South India, this is the place to kurma (yoghurt-based dish),
go for the best of domestic and vegetable curry and many more.
RECOMMENDED
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A sweet pudding rich with coconut
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The Raintree Hotel, Anna Salai
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CHENNAI
ITINERARY
3 DAYS OF
CHARMING
CHENNAI
Fun is just around the corner at Marina Beach
Guindy National
Park is home to
more than 150 Valluvar Kottam is one of the famous
species of birds. landmarks of modern Chennai
DAY DAY DAY
1 2 3
Walking the Spiritual Path Close to Your Heart Dolittle’s Wonderland
Find your peace of mind in the How to enjoy a new city? Do what No need to go far to feel connected
bustling city the locals do! to nature.
• Kapaleeshwarar Temple • Take the MRTS (Mass Rapid • Arignar Anna Zoological Park
• Basilica of the National Shrine Transit System) from end to end • Guindy National Park
of St. Thomas • Play cricket at Marina Beach or
• Vivekananda House just take a long walk there AFTERNOON
• Valluvar Kottam • Watch a movie starring Southern Feast
legendary actor Rajinikanth What better way to say farewell
AFTERNOON to the city than with a rich and
Street Stall Shopping AFTERNOON flavourful feast?
All Cultured Up!
Once the stalls are set up, the hunt
Go from dull-witted to genius in • A feast in Saravana Bhavan
for bargains begins one day or die trying! restaurant that consists of a variety
of rice, vada (savoury fritter),
• George Town • The Birla Planetarium uppuma (dry-roasted semolina
• Cotton Street • National Art Gallery porridge), pongal (sweet or savoury
• Kanjeevaram Silk Saree • Dakshin Chitra for the culture of rice dish), idli (black lentil cakes)
four southern states and dosa (fermented crepe) with
• Bharata Natyam performance at sambar (lentil-based stew) and
Kalakshetra coconut or tomato chutney.

NEW DELHI
Taj Mahal, a
masterpiece inspired
by love
Delhi’s past has always found the city in the political and The Red Fort
cultural heart of mighty empires. Its majestic legacy is built

on some of the most astounding architectural achievements
of the ancient times. Fast forward to modern-day India, the
capital of the mighty nation is a complete confluence of the
traditional and the modern.
AGRA SMART TIP

As the sites in Agra are religious
Agra is the witness to the glory in nature (mausoleums and HOW
days of the Mughal Empire which mosques), both men and women Chandni Chowk Metro Station (10
can still be seen by its legacy of are advised to adhere to local mins auto rickshaw) → Red Fort
spectacular monuments such as customs in how they dress.
Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. CONTACT
Red Fort
ADMISSION FREE RED FORT (LAL QUILA)
Netaji Subhash Marg, Chandni
Spread over more than 250 acres Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi 110006,
HOW of land, the former residence India
New Delhi Railway Station (2-3 of the Mughal emperors is one
hours train) → Agra Cantt. +911123277705
of the best examples of Mughal www.redfortdelhi.co.in
architecture with spectacular
CONTACT marble halls, a beautiful lotus-
Delhi Tourism shaped fountain, an embellished ACTIVITIES
18-A, D.D.A.SCO Complex, Peacock Throne and formidable
Defence Colony, New Delhi - 24 walls of red sandstones.
+911124647005
ADMISSION Indian and SAARC SMART TIP
www.delhitourism.gov.in
& BIMSTEC citizen INR 10; Other The fort’s sound and light show is a
good way to learn about the UNESCO
ACTIVITIES Foreigner INR 250; Child (up to 15
World Heritage site’s history. The
year old) FREE timing changes according to month,
check out theashokgroup.com for
info and booking.
NEW DELHI
LOTUS TEMPLE
The flower-like Baha’i temple

with its 27 free-standing marble
clad “petals” is one of the most
recognisable buildings in Delhi,
and a place where everyone of
any faith are welcome to pray and
meditate in its serene interiors.
ADMISSION FREE
HOW Kalkaji Mandir

Metro Station (15 mins walking) →
Lotus Temple Lotus Temple
CONTACT Qutb Minar is a tower of victory built after

Lotus Temple the defeat of Delhi’s last Hindu kingdom.
Lotus Temple Rd, Shambhu Dayal
Bagh, Bahapur, New Delhi, Delhi
110019, India
+ 911126470526
www.bahaihouseofworship.in
ACTIVITIES
SMART TIP
English and Hindi-speaking guides
are available at the temple’s entrance.
QUTB COMPLEX
This UNESCO World Heritage Site

consists of Qutb Minar, the tallest
brick minaret in the world; two
mosques (including Quwwat-ul-
Islam, the oldest mosque in Northern FUN FACT!
CONTACT
India); and funerary buildings. Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque was built of
materials reused from around twenty Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
Hindu and Jain temples. Certain Ashoka Rd, Hanuman Road Area,
ADMISSION Indian Adult INR parts of the temples can still be seen Connaught Place, New Delhi, Delhi
25, Child INR 20; Adult Foreigner beyond the mosque area. 110001, India
INR 200, Child INR 50 +911123340174
GURUDWARA BANGLA SAHIB www.dsgmc.in
HOW Qutab Minar Metro
Station (10 mins auto rickshaw) → The grandiose shrine with its golden
Qutb Complex domes and peaceful pool belonged ACTIVITIES
to Raja Jai Singh until the building
CONTACT was transformed to a gurudwara
Delhi Tourism (Sikh house of worship) in memory
of Guru Har Krishan, the eight Sikh SMART TIP
18-A, D.D.A.SCO Complex, Guru. Even though it is a Sikh holy place,
Defence Colony, New Delhi - 24 everyone is welcome, including for
+911124647005 ADMISSION FREE free meal at the langar (kitchen). Do
www.delhitourism.gov.in cover your hair and remove footwear
HOW Shivaji Stadium to show respect.
ACTIVITIES Metro Station (10 mins walking) →
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib

NEW DELHI
SHRI ADHYA KATYANI SHAKTI

PEETH MANDIR
The second largest Hindu temple

complex in India is entirely
constructed from marble and
dedicated to Goddess Katyayani, one
of the nine forms of Durga.
ADMISSION FREE
HOW Chhatarpur Metro

Station (10 mins walking) → Shri
Adhya Katyani Shakti Peeth Mandir
Shri Adhya Katyani Shakti Peeth Mandir
CONTACT
Shri Adhya Katyani Shakti Peeth
ACTIVITIES FUN FACT!
Mandir
At the entrance, there is a Kalpa
Main Chhatarpur Rd, Chhatarpur,
Vriksha (Wishing Tree) where
New Delhi, Delhi 110074, India devotees tie coloured bangles and
+911126802360 threads so that their wishes get
www.chhattarpurmandir.org fulfilled.
BUY
& EAT
The origin of this densely populated
Delicious chicken tikka and tandoori fish market dates back to the Mughal era.
as it is mostly frequented by expats
BUY and elite locals, but definitely a place
EAT
for you to find quality products and
CHANDNI CHOWK unique wares. Go here for ayurvedic
CHAAT
A maze of winding narrow streets medicine, branded clothing,
Chaat can simply mean “savoury
with the most wonderful stalls, authentic Western food, and even
snack” but its literal meaning in Hindi
offering everything from colourful Pokemon cards!
is “lick”, and there’s a large selection of
delicious good snacks in Delhi. Don’t textiles, lip-smacking flatbreads,
miss aloo chaat (spicy potato), bhelpuri each stall unique from the
(puffed rice), and many others. rest. Just the kind of wonderful
cacophony you’d expect from a RECOMMENDED
market which survived more than
TANDOORI
300 years of international trade! STAYS
It is said that the city is the birthplace
of the world-famous tandoori Hotel City Star
chicken, but Delhi also boast other KHAN MARKET
scrumptious tandoor (traditional This neighbourhood market is not the
place you want to go to for a bargain, Maidens Hotel, Delhi
cylindrical oven) dish such as boti
kebab (lamb skewer), paneer tikka
Park Plaza Gurgaon
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NEW DELHI
ITINERARY
3 DAYS OF DELIGHTFUL DELHI
Taj Mahal, the famous and beautifully
designed mausoleum of the Mughal era.
Landscaped gardens with architectural works from the 15th and The marble walls of Lotus Temple are lit up at night, creating a
16th century. truly impressive vision.
DAY DAY DAY
1 2 3
MORNING MORNING WHOLE DAY
Architectural Enchantments Her Modern History The Mughal Majesty
Sophisticated architectural An introduction to the city’s Take a trip back in time to the
masterpieces, both ancient and colonial past and its path to zenith of Mughal Empire.
modern. independence.
• Taj Mahal
• Humayun’s Tomb • Connaught Place • Agra Fort
• Qutb Complex • India Gate • Jama Masjid Mosque
• Lotus Temple • National Museum
AFTERNOON AFTERNOON
The “New” Delhi Not Another Central Park
A bit of “quiet time” at the garden
Where the young and hip go for
will relieve you from the weariness
retail therapy and entertainment. of the day.
• Khan Market • Lodi Gardens
• Chandni Chowk
DANCING THROUGH
THE MILLENNIA
Without a doubt, dance is as much a part of the Indian psyche as spices and curry.
Case in point: you can count on a Bollywood movie – regardless of the cast and plot – to
have several song-and-dance routines with an ensemble of dozens, even hundreds.
Abby Yao lifts the veil over the millennia-old art form that is still practiced today.
One mild March night, a group of The Classics If you’ve seen the green-faced
dance enthusiasts from around man with the circular headdress
The name of the dance: Bharata
the world climbed four flights of and big bustle skirt, then you’ve
Natyam, one of the most famous
steps, left their shoes on racks and seen a Kathakali dancer. The male-
and oldest of the eight Indian
entered a dance studio to witness a dominated dance-drama re-enacts
classical dances at nearly 2,000
performance. I was there, too, sitting stories from mythology and takes
years old. Once performed in
on the floor close to the action. hours of preparation to put on
Hindu temples by devadasis, or
the distinctive makeup and heavy
female temple servants, it is said
Three barefoot young women costume. Watching the performers
that the dance was revealed by
clad in pink, their saris accented getting ready is stunning in itself!
Brahma, the god of creation, to the
with gold hems, took to the floor.
sage Bharata.
Their movements looked like poses Mohiniyattam, the female
I’d only seen in sculptures. The counterpart of Kathakali, is called
Of the eight main classical
way they tilted their heads, moved the dance of the enchantress for its
dances of India, Bharata Natyam
their hands and feet, even blinked graceful and sensuous forms, while
from Tamil Nadu and three other
their eyes, was filled with emotion. Kuchipudi shares a number of
dances are from the southern
Their expressions spoke in ways similarities to Bharata Natyam but
states: Kathakali and Mohiniyattam
more than words could. I was has more curved poses.
from Kerala and Kuchipudi from
hypnotised. Andhra Pradesh. All four use
In contrast to the bent legs in
Carnatic music using South Indian
Kuchipudi and Bharata Natyam,
instruments.
Kathak from the northern states
is a standing dance, with Persian
influences and Hindustani music.

These classical dances are Chhau from the eastern
still taught and performed widely states and Rajasthan’s Kalbelia,
in India. Aside from recitals with its floaty skirts, are in the
and formal productions, usually UNESCO List of Intangible
produced by dance academies, Cultural Heritage. Other iconic
there are also plenty of festivals folk dances are Karnataka’s
that involve dancing. An epic Yakshagana and Kerala’s
arangetram (dancer’s graduation ritualistic Theyyam.
showcase) is also seen as a very
important event as this only
happens after several years of
Bollywood and Beyond
training. For those not living in Indian
communities, the most accessible
form of Indian culture is the
By The People, for The Bollywood film, the “B” standing
World for Bombay (Mumbai), where
many Hindi films are made. Other
In addition to the classical
major Indian film industries are
dances, there are hundreds of grouped according to language.
folk dances for different occasions These include Kollywood (in Tamil,
and by various ethnic groups. after Kodambakkam, where the
Perhaps the most famous one studios are located), Tollywood
is Bhangra from Punjab for its (in Bengali, after Tollygunge), Bharata Natyam is one of the most
lively movements and popularity Sandalwood (in Kannada, as the
famous Indian classical dances
not only in the subcontinent, but tree is common in Karnataka state)
also in the Indian diaspora all and Telugu cinema, now second WHERE TO WATCH INDIAN DANCES
over the world. It’s not unusual after Bollywood.
for American universities to have
competitive bhangra teams. Aside from popular venues for
Living with an Indian family,
These days, modern Bhangra is dance performances, some
I see Bollywood music videos
performed with contemporary hip on perpetual loop at home. The dance schools receive visitors.
hop and reggae beats. steps and melodies are catchy Check local listings for festivals.
and rousing, always inviting
the viewer to join in BANGALORE Nrityagram,
the dancing. Even the Attakalari, Ranga Shankara
toddlers in the house
cannot resist getting on CHENNAI Chennai Music &
their feet and stomping Dance Festival, Kalakshetra,
to the beat! The influence Mamallapuram Dance Festival
of Indian cinema has
gone global through GOA Kala Academy
the song-and-dance
numbers. And it’s not HYDERABAD Shankarananda
just Slumdog Millionaire Kalakshetra
but also Moulin Rouge,
among others. Even JAIPUR Maharaja Sawai
beyond Bhangra and Mansingh Sangeet
Bollywood, the fascinating Mahavidyalaya
variety of Indian dances,
classical and folk is worth KOCHI Kerala Kalamandalam,
watching live. The long Kerala Kathakali Centre
tradition of Indian dance,
from solo temple dance KOLKATA Rabindra Sadan,
to synchronised group Aurobindo Bhawan
routines, will surely live on
and will be worth watching NEW DELHI Ananya Dance
and learning for millennia Festival, Kathak Kendra
to come.
PUNE Nritya Prerana
Now, how do I get invited TRIVANDRUM Margi Kathakali
to an arangetram?
School, Drisyavedi, Onam
Festival

GOA
Celebrating the hippie renaissance in Anjuna Isolated from the rest of India for 451 years by Portuguese
rule, Goa developed its own unique culture. Fast forward
ANJUNA BEACH to today, young visitors from all around the world are still
Back in the 60s there was a big
drawn to its creative energy. Though the most famous thing
movement of Westerners seeking in Goa is actually their wondrously wholesome cuisine of
paradise in Goa, a place to hang rice, pickles, and locally caught fried fish with tangy fish
their braided flower hairbands and curry – a must-try for every visitor.
call home. Anjuna Beach welcomed
them, and on its lush hills cool
breezes blew and coconut fronds
provided shade. This picturesque FUN FACT!
beach is still as charming and Floating casinos present a unique
Anjuna is at its liveliest when the gaming experience CC BY 2.0 Praveen
welcoming as it was then and still evening comes as it turns into a
holds numerous beach parties like huge rave venue. Aside from the
the Full Moon Party. famous Full Moon Party, party
animals should watch out for
ADMISSION FREE Christmas and New Year parties.
HOW CASINOS
Dabolim International Airport (1 hr
taxi) → Anjuna Beach You can’t call yourself a high roller
if you haven’t experienced the
CONTACT casinos in Goa! The casinos are well
Goa Tourism Development equipped with top-notch facilities
like gourmet restaurants and +918322437132
Corporation Ltd.
entertainment venues to ensure an goa-tourism.com
Paryatan Bhavan, Patto Plaza, enjoyable gaming experience!
Panaji-Goa
+918322437132 ADMISSION Depends on venue ACTIVITIES
goa-tourism.com
CONTACT
ACTIVITIES Goa Tourism Development
Corporation Ltd. FUN FACT!
Floating casinos can be found
Paryatan Bhavan, Patto Plaza, Panaji-Goa
along the Mandovi River.
GOA
CALANGUTE BEACH
Calangute Beach is the epicentre

of activities and the top beach in
Goa. All year long there are music
shows, dance competitions and
water sports like parasailing and
water skiing. Anyone can easily
find food, entertainment and fun
at this beachside heaven as it’s the
liveliest beach in Goa.
ADMISSION FREE
HOW Calangute Beach, one of the most colourful locales in Goa

Dabolim International Airport (1 hr beaches, is always brimming with excitement
taxi) → Calangute Beach
ACTIVITIES HOW
CONTACT Dabolim International Airport (40
Goa Tourism Development mins taxi) → Basilica of Bom Jesus

Corporation Ltd.
SMART TIP CONTACT
Paryatan Bhavan, Patto Plaza, Panaji-Goa
Foreigners are not permitted to Basilica of Bom Jesus
+918322437132
goa-tourism.com enter, but may take pictures from Bainguinim, Goa
outside the temple. +918322857900
bomjesus.org
ACTIVITIES BASILICA OF BOM JESUS
ACTIVITIES
The church is famous among
Catholics worldwide as the home to
FUN FACT! the remains of St. Francis Xavier,
Calangute Beach is dubbed who led missionary works in Asia.
the ‘Queen of the Beaches’ by The building itself is imposing, FUN FACT!
locals and visitors alike for its with simple yet elegant late Every 10 years, pilgrims come
unsurpassed beauty in North Goa. Renaissance design. from all over the world to pay their
respects to the embalmed body of
ADMISSION FREE St. Francis Xavier.
SHREE SHANTA DURGA TEMPLE
The beautiful temple of Indo- The basilica’s plaster had been stripped off a long time ago, giving it a distinctive look
Portuguese architecture might
stand tall amidst green hills, but it
started off as a mud-shrine built by
devotees avoiding the conversion
campaign by the Portuguese.
Later, it was turned into a temple
for Shantadurga, the goddess who
acted as a mediator when Vishnu
and Shiva had a conflict.
ADMISSION FREE
HOW
Dabolim International Airport (45
mins by taxi) → Shree Shanta
Durga Temple

CONTACT
Shree Shanta Durga Temple
Kavlem, Ponda, Goa
shreeshantadurga.com

GOA
MARKETS +918322437132
goa-tourism.com
It’s not just about haggling but it’s
also about the vibe. Music and art
fill every corner, where local and ACTIVITIES
expat vendors exchange friendly
banter with international travellers
in tie-dye shirts and yoga pants.
SMART TIP
ADMISSION FREE Mapusa Market opens every day
from 10am to 8pm, Anjuna Flea
CONTACT Market opens every Wednesday
Goa Tourism Development from 8am until late in the evening
(tourist high season), Ingo’s Saturday Where locals and hippie travellers alike
Corporation Ltd. compete for the best price CC BY-SA 2.0
Night Market opens every Saturday
Paryatan Bhavan, Patto Plaza, Panaji-Goa from 5pm until the wee hours. Klaus Nahr
BUY
Pork Vindaloo is a
favorite dish of Catholic
Goans, while the
& EAT
Muslims and Hindus
prefer chicken, lamb or
duck
BUY
TRADITIONAL GOAN LACQUERWARE

TOYS
Bring these toys home for your
children, nieces, nephews, cousins Fenny, Goa’s most potent cashew-
or your neighbours if you like. But based brew.
nobody’s going to complain either if
you keep them for yourself. FENNY
Some call it ‘fenny’ while others
HAND-PAINTED CERAMICS ‘fenim’ but no matter what you
The Portuguese adopted the art of might call it, this curious spirit
hand-painted tiles from the Moors made of cashew is a Goan icon and
and brought the blue ‘azulejos’ is very popular for being ridiculously
tiles to Goa. Today, hand-painted EAT
strong.
tiles and ceramics have become
VINDALOO
part of the Indo-Portuguese
heritage in Goa which you can
What happened when Portuguese RECOMMENDED
dish carne de vinha dálhos (meat STAYS
bring home as souvenirs.
with wine and garlic) got localised?
Wine was replaced with vinegar Club Mahindra Emerald Palms
and garlic was accompanied by
local spices such as Kashmiri Taj Exotica
chillies. The meat dish is eaten with
chappati or naan, – a totally new Grand Hyatt Goa
meal altogether!
Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa
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GOA
ITINERARY 3 DAYS OF
GORGEOUS GOA
The flea market is spread over Anjuna’s
coastline and is very popular among the
tourists
Lake Mayem is a popular spot for

boating Lake Mayem CC BY-SA 2.0
Russians performing fire dances add fuel to many parties around Goa Sam Felder

DAY DAY DAY
1 2 3
MORNING MORNING ALL DAY
Hit the Beach A European Affair It’s Only Natural
No time to waste! Let’s go to the Enjoy a chunk of Portugal in India. Spend a day visiting a waterfall,
beach and get busy! take a boat ride and then take
• Basilica of Bom Jesus refuge in your floating tent on the
• Parasailing at Calangute Beach • Reis Magos Fort lake.
• Paragliding at Arambol Beach • St. Alex Church
• Fontainhas • Lake Mayem
AFTERNOON • Church of St. Francis of Assissi
Hit the Hippie Trail
AFTERNOON The church is named after St. Francis of
From baggy yoga pants to organic Assisi who is known as as a champion of
Massage of Peace
tea leaves, get your hippie fix here. the poor
Let yourself be pampered and take
• Anjuna Market a break from your hectic touring
schedule.
EVENING
Hit Me! • Massage parlours around
You don’t have to be an experienced Candolim
gambler to enjoy the exciting
EVENING
atmosphere.
Own the Night
• Electronic games at onshore Sing around a bonfire, join all-night
casinos jam sessions, dance away the whole
• Live tables and entertainment night and wake up to see the sunrise.
on floating casinos
• Anjuna
• Baga
• Ashvam
GUWAHATI
One of Asia’s oldest cities is also one of the fastest

developing cities in India. Guwahati’s modern buildings are
complemented by the meandering Brahmaputra River and
verdant hills in the distance, creating a pleasant backdrop
to the most developed city in the northeast. It is the gateway
to the region, promising unique adventures to the likes of
KAMAKHYA TEMPLE Assam, Nagaland and Sikkim.
Instead of housing an idol of the
goddess, this hilltop temple enshrines
a yoni (female symbol). Kamakhya (INR 501) will give visitors access
The gate of Srimanta Sankaradeva
Temple is one of the oldest Shakti Kalakshetra CC BY-SA 3.0 Bishnu
to the inner sanctum where there’s Saikia
Peetha (a place of worship for a Hindu a spring shaped into a yoni and
goddess) with structures dating from worshipped as the goddess herself.
the 8th and the 17th century.
SRIMANTA SANKARDEV
ADMISSION FREE
KALAKSHETRA
HOW The cultural centre encompasses a
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi museum, a library and an open-air
International Airport (45 mins taxi) theatre with special performances
→ Kamakhya Temple that give visitors an insight on
the rich and varied traditions of
CONTACT Northeast India.
Directorate of Tourism, Govt. of
Assam ADMISSION Indian INR 30; ACTIVITIES
Station Road, Guwahati 781001 Foreigner INR 100
+913612547102
assamtourism.gov.in HOW
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi SMART TIPS!
International Airport (1 hr 15 mins Don’t miss the Sound & Light
ACTIVITIES taxi) → Srimanta Sankaradeva
Show (6.15pm-7pm in Assamese,
Kalakshetra
7-7:40pm in English). If you
happen to visit around the
CONTACT
SMART TIPS! festive season, do check out the
Directorate of Tourism, Govt. of Assam
The general entry might be free, performance schedule as the open-
Station Road, Guwahati 781001
but visitors start queuing as early air amphitheatre often holds folk
+913612547102 dances and theatre performances.
as 5am. Paying for special entry
assamtourism.gov.in
GUWAHATI
A view of Guwahati from Brahmaputra River CC0 1.0 donvikro
BRAHMAPUTRA RIVER CRUISE During British colonial rule,

Meghalaya was dubbed the
The mighty trans-boundary river “Scotland of the East” CC BY 2.0
that divides Guwahati into two Rajesh Dutta
halves is the life pulse of Assam.
Go for a morning cruise to catch
a mesmerising sunrise or take
an afternoon one for a romantic
sunset.
ADMISSION Depends on tour

operator HOW ADMISSION FREE
Guwahati (4 hrs bus) → Shillong,
HOW Meghalaya
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi HOW
International Airport (45 mins taxi) Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi
CONTACT
→ Brahmaputra River International Airport (1 hr taxi) → Hajo
Department of Tourism,
Government of Meghalaya
CONTACT CONTACT
Lower Lachumiere, Shillong Directorate of Tourism, Govt. of
Directorate of Tourism, Govt. of Assam 793001
Station Road, Guwahati 781001 Assam
+913642226054 Station Road, Guwahati 781001
+913612547102 megtourism.gov.in
assamtourism.gov.in +913612547102
assamtourism.gov.in
ACTIVITIES
ACTIVITIES
ACTIVITIES
LOCAL INSIGHTS
FUN FACT! Get close to nature by taking in
Rivers in this region usually have FUN FACTS!
the serene view of Umiam Lake,
female names, but Brahmaputra Among the most popular
trek up to Tura Peak, explore the
(literally, “Son of Brahma) is rare pilgrimage sites is the 6th century
Garden of Caves or visit the 1100-
as it is the only “male” river in the Hayagriva Madhava Temple on
foot Nohkalikai, one of the tallest
Indian subcontinent. Manikuta Hill, sacred for both
waterfalls in India.
Hindus and Buddhists, and Poa
Mecca (meaning “a quarter of
MEGHALAYA Mecca”) for Muslims.
HAJO
Living up to the meaning of its
name in Sanskrit (the abode of The town of Hajo is home to
clouds), Meghalaya is a magical ancient and medieval religious
land with rolling hills, misty forests, sites for three religions—Hinduism,
gushing waterfalls and extensive Buddhism and Islam. Aside from
caves, making it a haven for the temples and mosques, one can
adventurers and nature lovers. also enjoy beautiful scenery and
shop for Hajo’s metal work. Hayagriva Madhava Temple CC BY-SA 3.0
Jugal Bharali
ADMISSION FREE
GUWAHATI
HOW
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi
International Airport (2 hrs taxi) →
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
CONTACT
Department of Environment &
Forests, Guwahati Wildlife Division
+913612550207
assamforest.in
ACTIVITIES
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is popular for spotting of one-horned rhinoceros.

SMART TIPS!
POBITORA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY one-horned rhinoceros and There are additional fees for an
migratory bird population. elephant safari (Indian INR 450;
A 30 km drive east of Guwahati is Foreigner INR 1000), or a jeep
where you can find a nature lover’s ADMISSION Indian INR 50; safari (INR 1350 for 1 hour jeep
treasure, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, ride). Best time to visit is between
Foreigner INR 500 November and April.
famous for its endangered Indian
BUY
& EAT
PAN BAZAAR
Tenga Is a good example of Assamese This market is located in a busy
cuisine with its bold flavour but with minimal
use of spices CC BY-SA 3.0 A selection of Assamese saree (mekhela
commercial area which includes
chador) CC BY 2.0 rajkumar1220 government offices, restaurants
EAT and bookstores. Aside from the
SHOP wholesale of pharmaceutical
KHAR
products and printing supplies, it’s
Locals believe that khar’s alkaline
FANCY BAZAAR also famous for traditional arts and
filtrate of ash cleanses the stomach.
A colourful market for an authentic crafts.
A traditional meal in Assam begins
with a bowl of khar, a pulpy lentil Assamese shopping experience,
dish made by filtering water through this is the place to be for those who
the ashes of dried plantain peels. are looking for jaapi (farmer’s hat),
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GUWAHATI
DAY
ITINERARY 3 DAYS OF
MORNING
Getting To Know Her
GORGEOUS GUWAHATI
An introduction to Guwahati and
the region of Assam.
• Assam State Museum

• Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra
AFTERNOON
The deity of Kamakhya Temple celebrates the ‘shakti’ or power within a woman to The Temple, the Monkeys and the Peacock
nurture and bring forth new life.
Visit the famous Umananda
Temple and meet the rare Golden
Langurs on Umananda Island, also
known as Peacock Island.
• Umananda Island
DAY
2
MORNING
Sacred Assam
The region of Assam is famous for
its temples, some of them right in
Guwahati itself.
• Kamakhya Temple
• Basistha Temple
• Balaji Temple
AFTERNOON
The Mighty Son of the Creator
Board an afternoon cruise where
you can have dinner while sailing
gently along the mighty river and
catch the sunrise.
• Brahmaputra River
DAY
3
MORNING
Walk On the Wild Side
Embark on a safari for the chance to spot
the rare Indian one-horned rhinoceros.
AFTERNOON
Memento of the Northeast
You will always have your memories
with you, but don’t forget to get some
souvenirs for your loved ones.
• Fancy Bazaar
• Pan Bazaar
HYDERABAD
The powerful Mughal dynasties of its past are long gone,

but Hyderabad is still called the City of Pearls for its Charminar to Hyderabad is like what Eiffel
Tower is to Paris, a global icon of the city and
traditional bazaars where accessories in all colours of the one of the most recognized structures in India.
rainbow are sold. Today, as Cyberabad and the heart of
Tollywood, Hyderabad is also a preferred location for IT
ADMISSION General
companies and the centre of Telugu cinema.
HOW
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport
(1 hr taxi) → 10 Downing Street
CHARMINAR
ACTIVITIES
CONTACT
Grand arches line the elegant
balconies and balustrades as 10 Downing Street
minarets rise from Charminar’s Lifestyle Building, Begumpet,
four corners. Strategically located FUN FACT! Hyderabad
in the middle of the city, this 16th It was the first structure built after +914066629323
century structure is surrounded by the 5th ruler of Golconda Sultanate 10downingstreetindia.com
jewellery and food markets. moved his capital to Hyderabad
due to the shortage of water.
ADMISSION Indians INR 5; ACTIVITIES
Foreigners INR 100
10 DOWNING STREET
HOW FUN FACT!
Practically an institution in
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport There is a different theme for
Hyderabad, the famous watering
(31 mins taxi) → Charminar every night of the week: Vintage
hole keeps the young and trendy
coming with the English drawing on Mondays, Rock on Tuesdays,
CONTACT room concept and a healthy dose Ladies’ Night on Wednesdays,
Charminar of house and hip hop music. Karaoke on Thursdays, Retro on
+914066745986 Fridays and Desi on Saturdays.
HYDERABAD
GOLKONDA FORT The fort spans a total of 11km with residential areas,
worship places and other structures
The ruined fort city of Golkonda
was the seat of Qutub Shahi
Dynasty before the capital was
moved to Hyderabad. This is also
where the Koh-i-Noor Diamond,
the largest uncut diamond of
its time, and the famous Hope
Diamond were once stored.
ADMISSION Indians INR 10,

Foreigners INR 100, Videos INR 25
HOW
(35 mins taxi) → Golkonda
Fort An 18-metre tall statue of Buddha watches over
Lumbini Park with its musical fountain
CONTACT
Andhra Pradesh Tourism
+914023512401
ACTIVITIES
FANS SUGGEST!
Come for the sound and light show
in the evening to see the legend of
Golkonda come to life before your CONTACT
RAMOJI FILM CITY
eyes. Ramoji Film City Anaspur Village,
See actual movie sets and the Hayathnagar Mandal, Hyderabad,
HUSSAIN SAGAR & LUMBINI PARK steps of making a movie, go on +91180042509999
different rides at the amusement www.ramojifilmcity.com
A mosque, a tomb, statues and even park and watch the evening
a tank from the Battle of Basantar carnival in the largest integrated
can be found in this favourite local film city in the world. ACTIVITIES
hangout, which gets busy in the
evening and on weekends. ADMISSION General Guided Tour
for Adult INR 800, General Guided
ADMISSION Adults INR 5, SMART TIP
Tour for Child (3-12 years) INR 700
Children INR 2 (Lumbini Park) Bear in mind that you will be out
in the sun for a very long time in
HOW an area of 166 acres, so prepare
HOW Rajiv Gandhi International Airport
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport yourself with hats, sunscreen and
(45 mins taxi) → Ramoji Film City a supply of water.
(40 mins taxi) → Hussain Sagar
CONTACT It’s a city where movies come to life right in front of you!
Ramoji film city CC BY-SA 2.0 Sissssou
+914023453315
ACTIVITIES
FUN FACT!
The artificial lake separating
Hyderabad and Secunderabad is
the best marker to orient yourself
around the city.
HYDERABAD
CHOWMAHALLA
CONTACT
As soon as you enter the regal Chowmahalla Palace
Durbar Hall, you can imagine +914024522032
how the Asaf Jahi Dynasty
http://www.chowmahalla.com
wowed royal guests and foreign
dignitaries who entered the “Four www.chowmahalla.com
Palaces” (Chowmahalla).
ACTIVITIES
ADMISSION Indians INR 40,
Foreigners INR 150, Still Camera
INR 50, Video Camera INR 100
FUN FACT!
The palace’s richly decorated interior
HOW
and exterior show Persian architectural
elements and those of Rajasthani,
(30 mins taxi) → Chowmahalla
Indo-Saracenic and European. Chowmahalla Palace CC BY-SA 2.0
Palace Srinayan Puppala
BUY
& EAT
This dish harks back to the royal kitchens of the
Mughals who ruled much of Northern India for
more than two centuries. Think colourful bangles and one place that
comes to mind is Laad Bazaar.
EAT
SHOP
HYDERABADI BIRYANI
Rich aroma of ghee and saffron ACCESSORIES
welcomes you as you open the lid Baubles, bangles and beads all the
and you will find yourself eagerly way to the ceiling! One particular
digging for the succulent chicken or market famous among locals is
lamb hiding underneath the rice. Laad Bazaar, a centuries-old market
popular for accessories located a A vendor and his wares at Shilparamam
Market CC BY-SA 2.0 sankasrshan sen
stone’s throw away from the historic
Charminar.
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HYDERABAD
Tomb of Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah
ITINERARY
3 DAYS OF HEARTFELT
HYDERABAD
The view from the inside

of Charminar
DAY DAY DAY
1 2 3
The Heart of the City Amazing Past The Modern World
Head to the old city to get the feel A trip to Hyderabad is not Hyderabad is not just about
of Hyderabad’s long history. complete without exploring the historic monuments!
city’s rich history.
• Charminar • Ramoji Film city
• Gulzar Hauz • Salar Jung Museum • Birla Planetorium
• Patthargatti • The Nizam’s Museum • Snow World
• Mecca Masjid • Andhra Pradesh State Museum
• Falaknuma Palace • National History Museum AFTERNOON
Tales of the Citadel
AFTERNOON AFTERNOON Conclude your Hyderabadi
Bustling Bazaar A Walk in the Park adventure with a visit to its two
Take a boat to the tall Buddha oldest monuments and watch the
Crowded narrow streets with
statue or just unwind and watch evening sound and light show.
colourful wares on the offer. Try to
the laser show
catch bangle-makers in action and • Qutb Shahi Tombs
then have an early dinner. • Hussain Sagar • Golkonda Fort
• Lumbini Park
• Laad Bazaar

JAIPUR
The Palace is famous for its numerous

windows which enable free circulation of air, Known as the ‘Pink City’ and ‘Paris of India’, the largest
hence the name ‘Wind Palace’
city in Rajasthan is famous for its urban quarters and broad
streets. From its majestic palaces to its glorious views,
HAWA MAHAL Jaipur is a mix of art, tradition and excitement. Dance
Hawa Mahal, known as ‘Palace yourself up to the pink sandstones of Hawa Mahal (Palace
of Winds’, is a five-storey palace of Winds), get enchanted by the grandeur of City Palace
uniquely built into the shape of the and discover Jaipur’s remarkable artefacts at Albert Hall
crown of the Hindu god, Krishna. Museum to complete your royal voyage.
Standing gracefully in red and pink
sandstone at the heart of Jaipur’s
bustling business centre, its
intricately carved jharokhas (stone
windows) can be seen jutting out ACTIVITIES ADMISSION INR 10
from the strikingly blushed façade,
making it impossible for anyone to
miss! HOW
Jaipur Airport (25 mins taxi) →
ADMISSION Indian INR 10, FANS SUGGEST Sisodia Rani Palace and Garden
Aside from the amazing architecture,
Foreigner INR 30
the shopping places within the Hawa CONTACT
Mahal district are simply the best in Rajasthan Tourism (Jaipur)
HOW the city. You’ll find a number of shops
Jaipur Airport (25 mins taxi) → Tourist Office, Near Elephant
selling souvenirs along the bazaar
Hawa Mahal street located near the palace. Stand, Amer
OR rajasthantourism.gov.in
Jaipur Railway Station (15 mins
SISODIA RANI PALACE AND GARDEN
taxi) → Hawa Mahal
ACTIVITIES
This garden palace was built
CONTACT elaborately by Maharaja Sawai Jai
Rajasthan Tourism (Jaipur) Singh II in honour of his beloved
Tourist Office, Near Elephant second queen, Sisodia, a princess
FUN FACT!
Stand, Amer from Udaipur. Adding some zest
A few notable Hindi movies were
+911412530264 to the desert soil of Jaipur, this
shot here too, including ‘Lamhe’,
rajasthantourism.gov.in manicured multi-level garden
starring Anil Kapoor!
enchants with beautiful fountains
and painted pavilions.

JAIPUR
AMBER FORT
Pronounced as ‘Amer’, the Amber

Fort is one of the most popular forts
in Rajasthan and was highly praised
for its artistic design, blending both
Hindu and Rajput elements together.
The fort was meticulously built with
red sandstone and marble.
ADMISSION Indian INR 25,

Foreigner INR 50 The City Palace also houses the famous Chandra Mahal, the seven-storey complex
which once served as a hall of justice.
HOW
Jaipur Airport (35 mins taxi) → by his successors. As a result, All aboard! Our only destination: fun!
CC BY-ND 2.0 Tony
Amber Fort the designs were largely based
on Rajput, Mughal and European
CONTACT architectural styles.
Rajasthan Tourism (Jaipur)
Tourist Office, Near Elephant ADMISSION Indian INR 75,
Stand, Amer Foreigner INR 300
+911412530264
rajasthantourism.gov.in HOW
Jaipur Airport (20 mins taxi) → City
Palace
ACTIVITIES STEAM
CONTACT
Looking for something different?
Rajasthan Tourism (Jaipur) Try Steam, a lounge bar on wheels
Tourist Office, Near Elephant with the refurbished carriage
SMART TIP Stand, Amer of a steam-powered train. Get
A one-way elephant ride costs about comfortable on one of the low-
+911412530264
INR 900 for two people. Rides slung couches and choose from
are only until noon. Come before rajasthantourism.gov.in
the fine selection of cocktails and
9.00am to avoid the long queue. wines as you settle yourself among
ACTIVITIES the stylish patrons.
CITY PALACE
ADMISSION FREE
Located right in the heart of
Jaipur, the majestic palace offers SMART TIP
a stunning view of the Pink City. HOW
The place is open to visitors from Jaipur Airport (20 mins taxi) →
The outer walls of the palace were 9.00am to 5.00pm daily and is closed
built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh Rambagh Palace
during Diwali, Holi and selected
II between 1729 and 1732, while holidays.
other structures were added later CONTACT
Rambagh Palace
Amber or Amer was once the capital of the Kachhawaha Rajputs, the princely states of Bhawani Singh Road, Jaipur
the 20th century +911412211919
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ACTIVITIES
FUN FACT!
Rambagh Palace was the former
home of Maharaja Sawai Man
Singhji and his wife Maharani Gayatri
Devi. The royal ambience can
still be experienced from its regal
architecture and wandering peafowls.
JAIPUR
TRADITIONAL BAZAARS
One can never leave this city

without doing some shopping.
Jaipur brims with interesting
bazaars that will set your shopping
endorphins on overdrive! From a
pair of carpets to a dozen metres
of fabric, get your hands on the
authentic local goods, as well as
the city’s shimmery jewellery and
gems. Must-see bazaars include
the Johari, Bapu and Tripolia
Bazaars. Jaipur’s markets are irresistible with a wide range of fashion items available
ADMISSION FREE CONTACT SMART TIP

Rajasthan Tourism (Jaipur) Plan your day according to what
HOW Tourist Office, Near Elephant you’re looking for: precious and
Ghat Gate Bus Stop (12 mins walk) semi-precious stones at Johari
→ Johari Bazaar Stand, Amer Bazaar, textiles and prêt-à-porter
OR rajasthantourism.gov.in clothes at Bapu Bazaar, dazzling
Johari Bazaar Road (2 mins walk) array of silver jewellery and
→ Bapu Bazaar ACTIVITIES utensils at Tripolia Bazaar.
OR
Bapu Bazaar Road (13 mins walk)
→ Tripolia Bazaar
BUY
& EAT
PYAAZ KACHORI & MAWA KACHORI
Need some snacks for your afternoon
chai? Grab a Pyaaz Kachori, fried
pastry with spicy onion filling; or a
Jaipur’s markets are irresistible with a wide Dip your kachori in sweet and minty chutney Mawa Kachori, a similar pastry filled
range of fashion items available to get a boost of flavours! with mawa (milk cheese) and nuts.
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The water palace, an oasis of serenity amidst the hustle

and bustle of Jaipur.
ITINERARY
3 DAYS OF
JAUNTY JAIPUR
The many windows of the Palace of Winds.
DAY DAY DAY
1 2 3
Wind and Water The Triumvirate Holy Lotus
Visit the country’s most renowned Get an in-depth look of the three Organise an excursion to Pushkar
architectural gems: the Wind and forts which once formed a strong and feel the mystical atmosphere
the Water Palaces. defence ring for the city. of Lord Brahma’s ancient city.
• Hawa Mahal • Amber Fort • Brahma Temple

• Jal Mahal • Jaigarh Fort • Rangji Temple
• Nahargarh Fort • Chamunda Temple
Reeling Nostalgia • Pushkar Lake
AFTERNOON • Savitri Temple
Catch a movie at the erstwhile
Stellar Gaze
most popular theatre in Jaipur. Admire the beauty of the past
as you visit these incredible
• Raj Mandir Cinema structures.
• City Palace
• Jantar Mantar Observatory

KOCHI Formerly known as Cochin, the South
Indian city is an interesting mix of British,
Dutch, Portuguese, Chinese, Arab & Jewish
influences from its colonial past. Many flock
to Kochi for its harmonious ambience and
vast spaces.
It is said that the Chinese fishing net

was brought to Kochi by Kublai Khan,
the founder of China’s Yuan Dynasty.
CHINESE FISHING NETS
Locally known as Cheena vala,

the Chinese Fishing Net uses an
amazing technique once practiced
only in China 500 years ago. It’s one
of the iconic symbols of Kerala. Best
to visit here at dusk as the setting
sun provides a stunning backdrop
for the fishing nets!
ADMISSION FREE
Enjoy a cruise at leisure in the Kerala backwaters on a

HOW
Kettuvallom, a traditional houseboat Cochin International Airport
(1 hr car) → Fort Kochi

KERALA BACKWATERS CONTACT CONTACT
Kerala Tourism Information Centre Kerala Tourism Information Centre
Take a ride on the famous houseboat Ernakulam Ernakulam
and lie in blissful tranquillity as +914842216567
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www.keralatourism.org www.keralatourism.org
and lakes which run parallel to the
Arabian Sea Coast (Malabar Coast).
Bring your camera as the scenic ACTIVITIES ACTIVITIES
network is made perfect with views of
elephants, kingfishers and butterflies
by the waterside.
SMART TIP SMART TIP
ADMISSION One bedroom You’ll be invited by the fishermen
It is possible to get a houseboat on
for two pax in a houseboat costs the day you want to sail off when to try catching fish yourself, but
approximately INR 7000 per night it’s low season. Just make sure to please be mindful that you are
be at the dock by 9am before all expected to tip them afterward.
HOW the good boats have gone out to the
Cochin International Airport backwaters.
(1.5 hrs car) → Alappuzha
KOCHI
Munnar was a favourite summer resort for the British during the colonial time.
MUNNAR HILL STATION PARADESI SYNAGOGUE & JEW TOWN FORT KOCHI
Lush green tea plantations along Amongst the old buildings and Not only will you find quirky colonial
mountainous terrains, surrounded remnants of Jewish heritage infused houses with architectural influences
by granite mountains – it’s the with South Indian culture is the from the Dutch, Portuguese and
perfect honeymoon destination. Paradesi Synagogue, the oldest British here, you will also witness the
Enjoy panoramic views with synagogue in India. contemporary way of life of Kochi
waterfalls, wildlife sanctuary and residents.
spice plantations. ADMISSION INR 10
ADMISSION FREE
ADMISSION FREE HOW
Cochin International Airport HOW
HOW (1 hr car) → Marina Beach Cochin International Airport
Cochin International Airport (1 hr taxi) → Fort Kochi
(3.5 hrs car) → Munnar CONTACT
CONTACT
Kerala Tourism Information Centre
CONTACT Kerala Tourism Information Centre
Ernakulam
Kerala Tourism Information Centre Ernakulam
+914842216567
Ernakulam www.keralatourism.org +914842216567
+914842216567 www.keralatourism.org
www.keralatourism.org
ACTIVITIES
ACTIVITIES
ACTIVITIES
FUN FACT!
Look out for the series of paintings FUN FACT!
LOCAL INSIGHTS in the entry room that tells the Buy fresh seafood at the stalls near
Anamudi, the highest peak in South history of the Jews in Kochi from the beach and have the vendors
India, is an arduous trek. Families the time they first arrived in cook them for you. Delicious!
should go to Top Station instead. Cranganore in 72 AD.
There once were seven St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi is the
synagogues in Kochi, but oldest European church in India
Paradesi is the only one
still in use.

KOCHI
HOW
Cochin International Airport (1 hr
cab) → Kerala Kathakali Centre

CONTACT
Kerala Kathakali Centre
K.B. Jacob Road, Fort Kochi
+914842217552
www.kathakalicentre.com
ACTIVITIES
One of the most interesting aspects of Kathakali is the
elaborate makeup worn by the performers.
KERALA KATHAKALI CENTRE the actors put on makeup for SMART TIP
the performance, a wonderful As the accompanying music
Head here for the nightly classical experience with special effects in an is loud and the room is small,
dance drama re-enacting various intimate setting! consider putting on ear plugs
Indian legends and myths. Come before the show starts (discreetly,
before the show starts to see ADMISSION INR 300 so as not to offend the performers).
BUY
In its birthplace Thalassery, this dish is a THALASSERY BIRYANI
must-have for weddings and other special This particular variant of biryani is
occasions
& EAT
prepared with the fragrant Kaima
rice and cooked with the dum
method (placing hot charcoal
inside a pot and sealing it),
creating a hearty dish that shows
influences from both Mughal and
Malabari cuisines. TEXTILE
Women will not be able to resist
Most of the traditional jewellery is not the regal-looking Kasavu Saree,
simply decorative but also has symbolic
meanings
traditional Keralan saree which
comes in various shades of white and
golden borders, while men will love
the Keralan Kasavu Mundu, similar to
a dhoti.
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KOCHI
ITINERARY
3 DAYS OF
KALEIDOSCOPIC KOCHI Kathakali is generally performed by an all-
male cast, with female characters portrayed
by male actors dressed in women’s costumes
The backwaters are the perfect place for relaxing in nature’s beauty Cherai is a favourite spot for a fun family day
at the beach. Plenty of seafood, too!
DAY DAY DAY
1 2 3
Shalom Aleichem Beachy Morning Backwater Meander
It’s a long way from Jerusalem, but Take a morning stroll at the beach What better way to end your visit
you can still see glimpses of the and grab breakfast at one of the than to spend the night on a
Holy Land here. shacks. houseboat?
• Paradesi Synagogue • Cherai Beach

• Jew Town
AFTERNOON
AFTERNOON Drama Kings & Queens
Portuguese Quarter Get classy with this highly-stylized
classical Indian dance drama.
Visit the historic heart of Fort
Kochi, the oldest European • Kerala Kathakali Centre
settlement in India.
EVENING
• St. Francis Church Walk the Talk
• Gravestone of Vasco da Gama Make a new acquaintance or two
• Chinese Fishing Nets at the local seaside hangout spot.
• Marine Drive
KOLKATA
Victoria Memorial Hall
The city of over 15 million people bursts with life in every SABARNA SANGRAHASHALA
nook and cranny. Resplendent in colonial splendour, it is The Sabarna Ray Chaudhury family
also a hodgepodge of rickshaws, cattle and iconic old- were the powerful landlords of
fashioned taxis. Indeed, the former capital of India has many Kolkata before the British rule. A
faces, and Kolkata has no qualms about showing them all to visit to this family museum is vital for
anyone who’s interested in learning
visitors at the same time! about the region’s history.
ADMISSION FREE
VICTORIA MEMORIAL HALL HOW HOW

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose
Victoria Memorial Hall is one of International Airport (30 mins taxi) International Airport (45 mins taxi)
the most recognisable structures → Victoria Memorial → Sabarna Sangrahashala
in Kolkata with its majestic
British and Mughal architectural CONTACT CONTACT
elements. The memorial hall was
Victoria Memorial Hall Sabarna Sangrahashala
built to honour Queen Victoria, the
longest reigning monarch of Britain victomem@gmail.com +919830 289400
or any British kingdom, and is an +914023513410
exquisite museum where everyone
ACTIVITIES
can learn the history of India.
ACTIVITIES
Foreigner INR 150
FUN FACT!
FUN FACT! One of the more interesting displays
The Victoria Memorial Hall holds is the historical Lease Deed of 1698
regular Light & Sound shows which which gave the East India Company
BOOK NOW feature Kolkata’s history. the rights to Sutanuti, Kalikatah and
Govindapur.
KOLKATA
Dakshineswar Kali Temple

CONTACT
Science City Kolkata
+913322854343
www.sciencecitykolkata.org.in
ACTIVITIES
FANS SUGGEST!
Come early so you will have ample
time to see all attractions in one
day: Space Odyssey, Dynamotion,
Evolution Theme Park, Maritime
Centre and Science Park.
NEHRU CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
Also known as Jawahar Shishi

Bhawan, the four-storey facility is a
wonderful place where children are
encouraged to gain more artistic and
historical knowledge through visually
appealing models and displays. The
museum has over 1,000 dolls from
DAKSHINESWAR KALI TEMPLE SCIENCE CITY 92 countries, many of which are
donated by visitors.
Situated on the eastern bank of In this amusement park, visitors
Hooghly River, this Hindu temple are taken on an educational ADMISSION Adult INR 5, Child
was created by a philanthropist and tour of both applied and INR 3
a believer of Kali. The temple has a theoretical science. There are
vast courtyard with twelve shrines interactive displays that help
devoted to Kali’s companion, Shiva, visitors understand the scientific HOW
along the riverfront. principles of natural phenomena Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose
in everyday life. International Airport (30 mins taxi) →
ADMISSION FREE Jawahar Shishu Bhawan
ADMISSION INR 40
CONTACT
HOW
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Nehru Children’s Museum
HOW
International Airport (20 mins taxi) → Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose + 913322231551
Dakshineswar Kali Temple International Airport (25 mins taxi) → www.nehrumuseum.org
Science City
CONTACT ACTIVITIES
Dakshineswar Kali Temple
+913325645222
www.dakshineswarkalitemple.org
ACTIVITIES
FUN FACT!
The temple was built by Rani
Rashmoni, a local noblewoman
who was apparently guided by a
divine revelation of the Goddess
Kali. The name of the Kali idol in
this temple is ‘Bhavatarini’ which
means ‘she who releases the soul
Beautiful dolls in traditional Indian attires
from the cycle of birth and death’.
KOLKATA
Park Street, Kolkata’s bustling

PARK STREET business & entertainment hub
CC BY 2.0 ptwo
The famous thoroughfare is still
known as the place to be, from the
colonial times to the present day.
Nightlife hotspots are popping up
alongside old colonial buildings,
showing the cosmopolitan side of
the city
ADMISSION Depends on venue
HOW
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose
International Airport (30 mins taxi)
→ Park Street Area ACTIVITIES area is ‘Someplace Else’, where
you can enjoy performances
CONTACT from local rock bands, with
West Bengal Tourism FANS SUGGEST! approximately nine hours of live
www.wbtourism.gov.in One recommended place in the music every day!
BUY
Kati Kebab Roll is a popular
street food in Kolkata
& EAT
SHOP
HANDICRAFTS
Get a taste of the royal kitchens of the As the centre of art and culture,
Muslim Mughal Empire. Kolkata is an ideal place for the
finest of handicrafts, especially the
EAT ones from Eastern India such as
jewellery, stone carving, woodwork,
MUGHLAI DISHES
KATI KEBAB ROLL silverwork and clay sculpture.
Thanks to its cosmopolitan past,
If Mexico has taco, then Kolkata different flavours of Mughlai cuisine
has its kati kebab roll. It’s basically LEATHER GOODS
has enriched Kolkata’s culinary
paratha (Indian flatbread), rolled scene and you can find delicious With about 25% of India’s leather
with kebab meat, onion, chilli, biryani (spicy rice dish), pulao (rice tanning being done in Kolkata, the city
cilantro and an omelette to create cooked in broth), kofta (meatball), is definitely the place to be for leather
the ultimate Kolkata-style street nihari (slow-cooked meat dish) goods. From fashion belts to cute
food! everywhere you go in the city! bags, and trendy jackets to swanky
boots, you can get them all here!
Recommended:
Nizam’s Recommended:
23/24, Hogg St, New Market Shiraj Golden Restaurant RECOMMENDED
Dharmatala, Taltala, Kolkata 135, Park Street STAYS
Phone: +919836194669
The Sonnet
Earn
oints
Park Plaza Kolkata Ballygunge
BIG Pree
for f . Swissotel Kolkata
HOW TO GET TO KOLKATA flightsnow!
p
Sign u
Taj Bengal
Kuala Lumpur 7x weekly MYR 252.08 The Oberoi Grand

KOLKATA
Howrah Bridge in Kolkata is considered

to be a marvelous engineering work by
ITINERARY the British © Adam Lee
3 DAYS OF
COLOURFUL KOLKATA
Dakshineswar Kali Temple © Adam Lee Victoria Memorial Hall © Adam Lee
DAY DAY DAY
1 2 3
The City of Joy Colonial Romance The Last Frontier
Introduce yourself to the city where Kolkata was the city that shaped A 117-km trip from Kolkata to
the streets are crowded, the river the Western imagination of the Sundarbans is definitely worth it as
meandering and life is joyful! country called ‘India’ and you can the latter is one of the few places
still see the traces of colonialism where the Royal Bengal Tiger, salt lake
• Dakshineswar Kali Temple everywhere you look. crocodiles and many other amazing
• Kalighat Kali Temple
wildlife can still be found in the wild.
• Birla Mandir • Victoria Memorial Hall
• Marble Palace • Sundarbans
AFTERNOON • St. Paul’s Cathedral
Shoppers’ Haven
Catch the Metro (the first rapid AFTERNOON
transit train in the country) to Sunset at the Bridge
Esplanade and prepare for a Seeing so many people, bicycles,
trucks and buses passing by, you
unique shopping experience!
will be convinced this is the world’s
busiest bridge.
• New Market Area
• Howrah Bridge Dakshineswar Kali Temple
© Adam Lee

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E CIAL
HEALING
SP
TU RE II
FEA
RETREAT:
A JOURNEY OF BODY,
MIND AND SOUL
Holidays are all about fun, and sometimes, excessive behaviours during your holidaying
may lead to repercussions on your health. But it doesn’t have to be always that way, as
you can enjoy your getaway with your well-being in mind.
by: Ari Fajar
When you are overcome by stress, problems using herbal compounds. while the body benefits from the
you find solace in the thought that After a thorough examination, you increased strength and flexibility,
soon you will be enjoying your will be advised the right diet and your mind will also become calmer
vacation in a place where flowers nutrition, and when needed, you and more relaxed.
bloom and birds sing. But there will also be given treatments such
are times when everything on a as medicated oil dripping and Recommendations:
vacation doesn’t go as expected massage. • Ramamani Iyengar Memorial
and you come back feeling Yoga Institute, Pune
that the world is back to being Ayurveda will strengthen you from • Veda Wellness Ayurveda
meaningless. the inside, but we also need to be Center, Kochi
active to be physically strong. This • Bhaskar Yoga & Wellness,
If the goal is to come back whole is where Yoga helps. Although it Jaipur
again and ready to face future is famous as a system of physical
challenges, the destination needs exercise, the different forms
to bring holistic goodness to the of Yoga aim to transform you
body, mind and soul. What better physically, mentally and spiritually.
country for this intention than The good thing about Yoga is that
India, a country with centuries-old
tradition of healing?
Yoga and Ayurveda

Whether you are a professional
bodybuilder or pencil pusher, your
body takes a beating all year long.
It’s time to be good to your body,
so that it will be good to you for
years to come.
Both Yoga and Ayurveda are

based on the belief that everything
in the universe is connected. A
disruption in this harmonious
connection leads to poor health.
We are so used to dangerous

chemicals in our lives, we don’t
really think about it. Try to give
your body a break and go organic.
The Ayurveda system of traditional
medicine focuses on promoting Shirodhara: dripping medicated herbal oil Ayurvedic massage is meant to break
good health and treating health on the forehead toxins within the body

The best thing about Yoga is you can do it practically new place, experiencing things
anywhere you want, even on the beach! that are out of the ordinary and
meet people from all walks of life.
Maybe it’s the exotic food, breath-
taking nature or the marvellous
monuments. Whatever it may be,
traveling opens up your horizon to
infinite possibilities and helps to
light our path.
Leave everything behind, go

somewhere amazing and give
yourself that space that you need,
a place where you will know who
you really are.
Recommendations:
• Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa
• Charminar, Hyderabad
• Gangaikonda Cholapuram
Temple, Tiruchirappalli
Meditation Pilgrimage
We are living in a modern era where We have heard it before, how Enjoy your vacation your own
it’s easy to lose grip of ourselves people leave for vacation and way, but once in a while,
amidst all the demands and come back happier. Some even remember to put your camera
challenges we face daily. Some claim to find the cure to whatever down and just be in the moment.
would argue that these are vital disease they might have. No, they You don’t have to measure
parts of life, yet as human beings are not delusional. Traveling does yourself against other people’s
there are times when we need to have that power to heal. experiences of the same place.
slow down and find that balance. Appreciate the chance to take a
When we say ‘pilgrimage’, we break. Take the positive things
Jumbled thoughts crowd your are not making any reference to you have achieved during your
mind and make it difficult to think any specific faith. It’s more of a vacation back to your daily life
clearly. This is when you need pilgrimage to a destination you’ve and you will find a better and
meditation the most. Meditation never been before, somewhere stronger version of yourself: more
can be done by focusing on that inspires you. Maybe it’s the peaceful, more centred and with
your breathing, visualizing excitement of being in a totally a renewed insight to life.
places and situations you find
relaxing, chanting calming words,
Get that balance in your everyday life
increasing awareness and being through discipline of body, mind and soul
in the present. As you go into that
safe place, you can overcome
negative thoughts and cultivate
constructive ones.
This profound spiritual practice

can be done anytime and
anywhere, from commuting on
a train, while in the middle of a
tough business meeting–virtually
anywhere, not just when you are
in a lotus position. But if you’re
new to meditation, it will be
beneficial for you to be guided by
experienced spiritual teachers and
share your experiences with other
beginners.
Recommendations:
• Art of Living Ashram,
Bengaluru
• Sri Ramana Ashram,
Chennai
• Dhamma Ganga, Kolkata
PUNE
CONTACT
Maharashtra Tourism Development
Corporation
‘I’ Block, Central Building, Pune
411 001.
+912026126867 / 8169
www.maharashtratourism.gov.in
ACTIVITIES
FUN FACT!
Shaniwar Wada was featured in
the reality TV series The Amazing
Race Asia. Contestants had to find
the correct pheta (Mahashtrian
turban) from 50 men who were
hanging about the fort.
KOREGAON PARK
Pune’s younger set is spoilt for

choice when it comes to pulsating
nightspots, but Koregaon Park
takes the crown when it comes to
high-spirited revelry. From lounges
playing smooth jazz to open-air
bars, it never gets boring here!
Shaniwar Wada ADMISSION Depends on venue
HOW
Come for the views, stay for the culture. The second largest Pune Airport (20 mins taxi) →
Koregaon Park
city in Maharashtra state was once a centre of power, but
is now a charming city of wonderful heritage and natural CONTACT
beauty. Explore the many temples and museums for a closer Maharashtra Tourism Development
look into Pune’s past! The city is also a mecca for shoppers, Corporation
with its many shopping streets offering rock-bottom prices, ‘I’ Block, Central Building, Pune
and night owls will love Pune’s vibrant nightlife. 411 001.
+912026126867 / 8169
SHANIWAR WADA ACTIVITIES
Influenced by Moghul design and the hallmark of Maratha craftsmanship,

the palace fort is one of the most prestigious monuments in Pune. Its
6.4-metre main door stands proud as the entrance to the fort’s majestic FANS SUGGEST
fountains, courtyards, halls and residential areas. The High Spirits Café is great for
live music and stand-up comedy,
ADMISSION INR 25 for light and sound show KueBar is famous for Cuban
cigars, while Penthouze Nightlife
HOW lets you enjoy molecular cocktails
Pune Airport (30 mins taxi) → Shaniwar Wada in an open air setting.
OR
Shivajinagar Bus Depot (5 mins taxi / 20 mins walk) → Shaniwar Wada

PUNE
AGA KHAN PALACE
Beautifully ornamented with Italian

arches and boasting extensive
lawns, this majestic building is one
of the biggest landmarks in the
history of India.

INR 2
HOW
Pune Airport (7 mins taxi) → Aga
Khan Palace
CONTACT
Take a peek into Gandhi’s life when he was confined within this beautiful palace.
Corporation
Find your ideal refuge for meditation in this peaceful place © Osho International
‘I’ Block, Central Building, Pune
411 001
+912026126867 / 8169
ACTIVITIES
FUN FACT!
Also the headquarters of the
Gandhi National Memorial Society,
it is where the crowd swarms each
day to pay tribute to Mahatma
Gandhi, who was held captive in
this palace in the 1940’s.
AMANORA TOWN CENTRE

ACTIVITIES
Known as a lifestyle retail centre, HOW
Amanora Town Centre is said to be Pune Airport (12 mins taxi) → Osho
the ‘Best Shopping Mall’ in India. International Meditation Resort
ADMISSION FREE FANS SUGGEST CONTACT

The mall has a special area called
Osho Global Connections
Oasis – 100,000 square feet
HOW of lush green space beautifully 17, Koregaon Park, Pune 411 001
Pune Airport (20 mins taxi) → surrounded by bodies of water, al +912066019999
Amanora Town Centre fresco cafes, an amphitheatre and www.osho.com
OR musical fountains.
Swargate Station (50 mins bus) →
Amanora Town Centre ACTIVITIES
OSHO INTERNATIONAL MEDITATION
RESORT
CONTACT
Amanora Town Centre The facility is a 28-acre tropical
sanctuary that welcomes visitors FUN FACT!
Hadapsar-Kharadi Bypass,
from all over the world to meditate It is known as the world’s largest
Hadapsar, Pune 411028 centre for meditation and personal
and find peace for the mind, body
+9120672678838 development.
and soul.
www.amanoratowncentre.com
Foreigner INR 1,560

PUNE
TULSI BAUG ADMISSION FREE CONTACT

The famed Ladies Market of HOW
Pune is where tourists can Corporation
Pune Airport (30 mins taxi) → ‘I’ Block, Central Building, Pune
shop for affordable household Tulsi Baug
items, jewellery, cosmetics, 411 001.
Maharashtrian traditional wares OR
+912026126867 / 8169
and many more. Swargate Station (25 mins bus) →
Tulsi Baug www.maharashtratourism.gov.in
ACTIVITIES
FAN SUGGEST
Things to look out for: imitation
jewellery, iron tavas (flat pans) and
kadhais (frying pans), brass and
copper artefacts, as well as the
The colours speaketh louder than words, and they all urge you to shop!
famous Indian chappals (slippers).
BUY
& EAT
This refreshing summer drink is a a fitting tribute cream. A pure Pune phenomenon,
to the beautiful story of Bajirao and Mastani
you can find this drink in almost any
(Mastani ice cream CC BY 2.0 Vijay Patil)
local food shop and stall in this city.
SHREWSBURY BISCUITS
Kayani Bakery’s famous
Don’t be shy, get that special saree you’ve
been dreaming of! Shrewsbury biscuits have been
selling out in a matter of minutes
BUY every day for the last two decades!
The light, buttery Shrewsbury biscuit: One
SAREES is simply not enough!
Hailing mainly from the Narayan CC BY 2.0 Divya Kudua
Peth and Pochampalli vicinity, the RECOMMENDED
sarees here are extremely popular EAT STAYS
among Indian women.
Hyatt Pune
MASTANI
RED POTTERY A drink inspired by Bajirao and
Known as a Pune specialty, red Radisson Blu Hotel Pune
Mastani’s love story, Mastani is a Kharadi
pottery is available at affordable delicious mix of ice cream, milk and
prices and can be found almost
The Westin Pune Koregaon Park
anywhere from pottery factories to
roadside stalls.
Earn Hyatt Regency Pune
oints
BIG Pree
HOW TO GET TO PUNE for f . JW Marriott Hotel Pune
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Jaipur 14x weekly INR 3399 BOOK NOW
PUNE
ITINERARY
3 DAYS OF PULSATING PUNE
DAY DAY DAY
1 2 3
Palace Trails Spiritual Healing Bakin’ Hot
Start off your Indian adventure by After a fruitful journey touring the The early bird catches the best
exploring the city’s historical sites. whole city, it’s time to de-stress biscuits in town!
yourself and just say ‘ohm’.
• Aga Khan Palace • Shewsbury biscuits from Kayani
• Shaniwar Wada • Osho Meditation Centre Bakery
• Sinhagadh Fort
• Dinkar Kelkar Museum EVENING Say Cheese!
• Parvati Temple and Museum A Drink to Remember Take your pick from regulars like
Let your night be memorable with a gorgonzola and mozzarella or try the
AFTERNOON special varieties like whiskey and
Time to Fork Out Those Ka-chings! good glass of Pune’s signature drink.
walnut, wine and raisin, coffee or
Bargaining is never a problem • Mastani drink cranberry.
when you’re here.
• ABC Cheese Farm
• Tulsi Baug
AFTERNOON
Amanora Town Centre
The temples on Parvati Hill are
Blend in and do what the locals do
situated at a height of 2100
feet above sea level CC BY-SA
best in their city.
2.0 Kristina D.C. Hoeppner
• Watch movies at IMAX
• Play games at Amoeba
• Dine at their al fresco cafes
EVENING
Let’s Get Loud!
Silent Noise has DJs, local and
visiting, who spin a mix of house,
EDM, progressive and funk. With
people swaying to the music in their
headphones, it feels like a regular,
energy-packed party, but without
the noise.
• Silent Noise Party
Zen Archery at OSHO International

Meditation Resort © Osho International

TIRUCHIRAPPALLI
Also called Trichy for short, Tiruchirappalli is a city of rich

traditions, culture and history. Its name means ‘city of the Rockfort Temple
three-headed demon’, to commemorate a fight between
Lord Shiva and a three-headed demon named Trisiras. HOW
Strategically situated on the banks of the Kaveri River, it Tiruchirappalli International
is now a thriving city and a hub for industry and education Airport (1 hr taxi) → Gangaikonda
in Tamil Nadu. Although progressive, Trichy remains a Cholapuram Temple
fascinating destination with more than 2,500 years’ worth CONTACT
of tradition and history. Tiruchirappalli Tourism
+ 914312460136
www.tamilnadutourism.org
ROCKFORT TEMPLE ACTIVITIES ACTIVITIES

The imposing Rockfort Temple
is a series of 7th century shrines
dedicated to Lord Ganesh, with
Thayumaavar, Ucchi Pillayar and FAN SUGGESTS FUN FACT!
Manikka Vinayagar temples being As the temple is perched on an Visitors will find the biggest Shiva
the most important. outcropping of rock, you’ll get Linga (symbol of Lord Siva)
splendid views of the city and the sculpture in South India right here.
ADMISSION Indian Adults Cauvery River from the vantage
points. The temple was carved from granite,
INR 10; Foreigners INR 150
interestingly, in an area with no
(museum), INR 4 (garden) source of granite.
GANGAIKONDA CHOLAPURAM
TEMPLE
HOW
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this
International Airport (30 mins taxi) beautifully constructed Hindu
→ Victoria Memorial temple was built by Rajendra
Chola to commemorate his
CONTACT successful conquest of the Ganges
Tiruchirappalli Tourism in the 11th century.
+ 914312460136
www.tamilnadutourism.org ADMISSION Free

TIRUCHIRAPPALLI
THARANGAMBADI FORT
(TRANQUEBAR FORT)
A remnant of the Danish occupation

in India, Tharangambadi Fort sits in
beautiful silence by the Bay of Bengal.
The village of Tranquebar was founded
by the Danish East India Company in
1620, and the fort was built soon after,
complete with barracks, a warehouse,
a kitchen and a jail.
ADMISSION Free
HOW
Tiruchirappalli International Airport The fort was once called Dansborg (Danish for “Stone
(3 hrs taxi) → Tranquebar Fort house”) before it was sold to the British.
CONTACT
Tiruchirappalli Tourism The fort was dubbed
the “Troy of the East”
+ 914312460136 by the British as it was
www.tamilnadutourism.org considered the most
impregnable
fortress in India.
ACTIVITIES
FUN FACT!
At one point, the temple was used as
a garrison and fortified cantonment by
different parties, including the British.
BRIHADEESWARAR TEMPLE
More than a millennium in age,

the temple was built by Raja Raja
Chola I in the year 1010. Regarded
as one of the most important
temples in India, this great SMART TIP HOW
monument is listed in the UNESCO If you have a special interest in Tiruchirappalli International Airport
World Heritage List as one of the sculptures, head over to the back (3 hours taxi) → Gingee Fort
“Great Living Chola Temples”. of the temple, where you will find
the most impressive ones. Great CONTACT
for photography!
ADMISSION Free Tiruchirappalli Tourism
+ 914312460136
GINGEE FORT www.tamilnadutourism.org
HOW
Tiruchirappalli International Airport Step into a historical landmark of
(2 hrs 45 mins) → Brihadeeswarar Tamil Nadu from the 9th century ACTIVITIES
Temple which comprises three hills
connected by walls. Inside, one
CONTACT can find a temple dedicated to the
Tiruchirappalli Tourism Hindu goddess Chenjiamman, a SMART TIP
+ 914312460136 Kalyana Mahal (marriage hall), a It can be very hot in Gingee and
www.tamilnadutourism.org granary, prison cells, and a military there is no water or food available,
gymnasium. so come prepared. There is also
no toilet on top of the hill, so you
ACTIVITIES ADMISSION Indian INR 5, might want to pace yourself with
Foreigner INR 100 your water and food.

BUY
TIRUCHIRAPPALLI
& EAT
ATHO
A testimony to the city’s openness
to foreign influences, various
dishes from Burmese refugees
have enjoyed a loyal following
since the 1970s. A favourite is
Khauk Swe Thoke, locally known
as Athoke or Atho, an unfailingly
delicious noodle salad with
shredded cabbage and onion in
Fine bridal jewelleries of traditional
designs like this is easy to find in golden tamarind soup.
Tiruchirappalli
BUY
Atho is a comfort food for the Burmese
refugees which became a local favourite TRADITIONAL SILK SAREES
CC BY-SA 3.0 Hintha The beauty of a saree draped
around a woman is undeniably
mesmerizing. In Trichy, traditional
silk sarees in a variety of vivid
colours and patterns are a
specialty item. Just be careful to
not go crazy when shopping for
beautiful finery!
JEWELLERY
In Tiruchirappalli, gem cutting
and polishing are important crafts
that generate millions of dollars in
revenue each year. You can find
stores which stock fine jewellery
in both modern and traditional
designs along Chinna Kadai Street.
EAT
BANANA LEAF RICE MAGALI KIZHANGU

Tamil Nadu is home to Indian If you’re visiting Tiruchirappali
vegetarianism, and the must- between September to January,
try here is banana leaf rice! A don’t forget to look for this seasonal
heavenly satisfying meal of rice
delicacy. It is a pickle made from RECOMMENDED
served with a mixture of curry
or dhal gravy, coupled with an Swallowroot (Decalepis hamiltonii) STAYS
assortment of vegetable dishes on which is also used in Ayurvedic Grand Gardenia
the side, and last but not least, the medicines.
ubiquitous crunchy poppadoms
Sangam Hotel Trichy
(Indian crisps), all served on a
fragrant banana leaf!
Earn
oints
Hotel High Point, Trichy
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HOW TO GET TO TIRUCHIRAPPALLI flightsnow!
p
Sign u
TIRUCHIRAPPALLI
Rockfort Temple
ITINERARY
3 DAYS OF THRILLING
TIRUCHIRAPPALI
The opulence of Thirumalai Nayak Palace
The famous 1000 Pillar Hall located inside Shree Meenakshi

Sudareshwara Temple
DAY DAY DAY
1 2 3
MORNING TO AFTERNOON MORNING ALL DAY
Rock the Day! Gospel, Gold and Glory Marvellous Madurai
It’s all about big rocks and Start your day at a historical A visit to the third largest city in
historical sites. church, drop by the market for a Tamil Nadu will delight your eyes
bit of shopping, and then have a and enrich your soul.
• Rockfort Temple glorious lunch!
• Sri Ranganathar Swamy Temple • Shree Meenakshi Sudareshwara
• Thiruvanaikovil Jambukeswarar • Our Lady of Lourdes Church Temple
Akilandeswari Temple • Gandhi Market • Thirumalai Nayak Palace
• Lunch at Kannappa Restaurant • Kazimar Big Mosque
EVENING
Going Bananas AFTERNOON TO EVENING
After a day chock full of fun, you River Rendezvous
deserve a feast! Take a breather at the point where
three rivers meet.
• Banana Leaf Rice at Vasanta
Bhavan • Mukkombu Dam

VISAKHAPATNAM
Why would the largest city in Andhra Pradesh have the
nickname of ‘Jewel of the East Coast’? Because it hosts
some of the most beautiful beaches in the country as well
as the remains of a once powerful Buddhist empire, Vizag,
as it is fondly called, is home to a diverse set of attractions
promising a dazzling holiday.
Simhachalam is one of the most visited temples in Andhra Pradesh
SIMHACHALAM TEMPLE ACTIVITIES

This hilltop temple is dedicated to Dolphin’s Nose from
Narasimha, an avatar of Vishnu with CC BY 2.0 pallavi_daRK beach
mera
a half-human, half-lion appearance.
A remarkable feature of the temple FUN FACT!
is its 16 pillars which are decorated The deity’s statue is covered with HOW
with bas-reliefs depicting Lord sandalwood paste throughout Visakhapatnam International
Vishnu in various incarnations. the year except for once in a year Airport (35 taxi) → Dolphin’s Nose
during Chandana Visarjana when
pilgrims flock to see the image in CONTACT
ADMISSION Free
its full glory. Andhra Pradesh Tourism
HOW 3-5-891, Tourism House,
DOLPHIN’S NOSE Himayatnagar, Hyderabad
Visakhapatnam International
Airport (20 mins taxi) → +914023262151
At the top of this hill, you can
Simhachalam Temple
catch a fascinating view of the
bustling city at one end and the ACTIVITIES
CONTACT coast with ships going about on the
Andhra Pradesh Tourism other.
3-5-891, Tourism House,
Himayatnagar, Hyderabad ADMISSION Indian Adult INR LOCAL INSIGHTS
+914023262151 25, Child INR 20; Adult Foreigner Come for the amazing sunset view and
www.aptdc.gov.in/vizag.html INR 200, Child INR 50 stay at the lighthouse for the evening.
VISAKHAPATNAM
One of the images of

Buddha carved onto the +914023262151
rocks of Bojjanakonda
CC BY-SA 3.0 Jvsnkk www.aptdc.gov.in/vizag.html
ACTIVITIES
LOCAL INSIGHTS
The choice is yours: Ramakrishna
Beach (popular with locals),
Rishikonda (water sports),
Bheemunipatnam (colonial remnants)
or Yarada (secluded beauty).
BORRA CAVES
This limestone cave showcases

Mother Nature’s expertise
in sculpting stalactites and
BOJJANAKONDA AND LINGALLAKONDA FUN FACT! stalagmites, which are amplified by
The name of the nearby village of colourful mercury, sodium vapour
Both Bojjanakonda and Lingalakonda Sankaram is the corruption of the and halogen lamps.
with their numerous monolithic original word, ‘Sangharama’ which
stupas are considered the best roughly means ‘the resting place of ADMISSION Adult INR 40, Child
preserved historical sites in the monastic community’. INR 30, Still Camera INR 25, Video
Visakhapatnam and Andhra Pradesh. & Digital Camera INR 100
BEACHES
ADMISSION Free HOW
Vizag is dubbed as the ‘Goa of Visakhapatnam Railway Station (4 hrs
HOW the East Coast’ as both cities have train) → Borra Guhalu Railway Station
Visakhapatnam International some of the country’s best beaches.
Airport (35 mins taxi) → The difference is that the beaches CONTACT
Bojjanakonda of Vizag are mostly untouched. Andhra Pradesh Tourism
CONTACT ADMISSION Free Himayatnagar, Hyderabad
Andhra Pradesh Tourism +914023262151
3-5-891, Tourism House, HOW www.aptdc.gov.in/vizag.html
Himayatnagar, Hyderabad Visakhapatnam International
+914023262151 Airport (20 mins taxi) →
Ramakrishna Beach ACTIVITIES
www.aptdc.gov.in/vizag.html
CONTACT
ACTIVITIES Andhra Pradesh Tourism
3-5-891, Tourism House, LOCAL INSIGHTS
See if you can count the number
Himayatnagar, Hyderabad
of tunnels on your train ride from
Vizag to Borra Guhalu!
Stroll along the golden sands and catch a sunrise or a sunset at Stalactite formations at Borra Caves CC BY 2.0 Rajib Ghosh
Ramakrishna Beach.
VISAKHAPATNAM
INS Kursura is South Asia’s first and INS KURSURA SUBMARINE MUSEUM ACTIVITIES
only submarine museum CC BY-SA
2.0 Ashwin Kumar
A unique experience awaits when
you enter the decommissioned
submarine, as you get to feel
how life is underwater for navy FUN FACTS!
members. Have burning questions on the life
in the navy? Ask away, as the staff
here are actual retired seamen!
Foreigner INR 10
HOW
Visakhapatnam International
Airport (25 mins taxi) → INS
Kursura Submarine Museum

CONTACT
Andhra Pradesh Tourism
Himayatnagar, Hyderabad
+914023262151
www.aptdc.gov.in/vizag.html
BUY
A pesarattu is basically a dosa made Pesarattu
with green bean instead of black lentil and ginger
CC BY 2.0 pangalactic gargleblaster chutney
& EAT
and the heart of gold CC BY 2.0
Upendra
Kanda
handicrafts of Andhra Pradesh,

from Kalamkari paintings to Banjara
embroidery to brass decor.
DABAGARDENS
There are many things that you
EAT abundance of fish, and this can find in this neighbourhood, but
particular freshwater fish recipe the locals recommend it for quality
PESARATTU is famous for its spicy and tangy sporting goods.
Pesarattu is a crepe-like bread flavours which are typical to
similar to dosa/thosai but contains Andhra Pradesh.
no black lentil. Eaten with upma
(dry roasted semolina), it is a BUY
RECOMMENDED
popular choice for breakfast and STAYS
snack time. LEPAKSHI HANDICRAFTS Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun
Here is where you will find a Beach
KATLA PULUSU treasure trove of traditional
Vizag is blessed with the The Park Visakhapatnam
Earn
oints
BIG Pree Four Points by Sheraton
HOW TO GET TO VISAKHAPATNAM for f . Visakhapatnam
flightsnow!
p
Kuala Lumpur 7x weekly MYR 222.08

BOOK NOW
VISAKHAPATNAM
ITINERARY
Borra Caves
CC BY 2.0 thotfulspot
3 DAYS OF VIBRANT
VISAKHAPATNAM
Statues of Shiva and his consort Parvati on top of Kailasagiri. INS Kursura
CC BY-SA
2.0 Ashwin
Kumar
DAY DAY DAY
1 2 3
MORNING WHOLE DAY MORNING
Ride the Wave The Valley of Amazement Visakha’s Pilgrimage
An introduction to Vizag’s surf! Start early to get the best of Araku, For Buddhist pilgrims this is a
Surfing beginners should check the valley of great natural wonders. must-visit as these two places
out Vizag Surf Club. are considered to be some of the
• Borra Caves
holiest sites in Andhra Pradesh.
• Rishikonda Beach • Katiki Falls
• Lawson’s Bay • Padmapuram Gardens
• Ananthagiri Coffee Plantations • Bojjanakonda and Lingallakonda
AFTERNOON • Galikonda View Point
AFTERNOON
Tribute to the Great Ocean
AFTERNOON TO EVENING Andhra Pradesh’s Pride
Time to take it down a notch while River Rendezvous A little bit of culture for a lasting
keeping the famous beaches of Take a breather at the point where impression of the largest city in
Vizag as the centre of activities. three rivers meet.
Andhra Pradesh.
End your day with a sunset view
from the city’s famous hill. • Mukkombu Dam
• Sri Venkanteswara Temple
• Lakshmi Devi Temple
• Ramakrishna Beach • Kailasagiri
• INR Kursura Submarine
Museum
• Dolphin’s Nose and the
Lighthouse

A PASSAGE
THROUGH
A Guide to Your Transport Options
INDIA
MRT
BUS MRT has started to operate in
TAXI For most travelers, buses are
India’s major cities such as Delhi,
Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai,
the preferred transportation
Taxi has always been Kolkata and plans to expand the
within the city. The service is
a convenient method network to second-tier cities. Like
efficient, but you might have
of travel. If you’re in in other countries, you can enjoy
to stand during your whole
Mumbai and Kolkata, the convenience of traveling with
ride as the buses are often
you can easily hail a the help of ticket vending machines,
packed. To secure a seat, you
taxi on the street while automatic doors and air-conditioned
may book tickets of deluxe
in some other cities coaches when you hop on the
service in advance. Avoid
like Bangalore, taxis train. Not only that, Bangalore has
private buses if you can.
are only available in introduced on board Wi-Fi in 2011.
taxi stands. You can
book a taxi using your
phone via apps like
UberX and Taxi Cab
Hire India. Alternatively,
most hotels provide taxi
HAND-
booking service. PULLED
RICKSHAW
Operated by human
power, a puller has
to walk or run to the
destinations while
pulling his passengers
on the vehicle. Due to
controversy over the
violence of human
rights, there are merely
around 6000 licensed
hand-pulled rickshaws
AUTO still plying in Kolkata’s
roads. However,
TRAM RICKSHAW you may still find
unauthorized rickshaw
Brought in by the British Auto rickshaw is often pullers in some parts
centuries ago, the tram known as the evolved of the city.
service can only be seen rickshaw and the cheapest
in Kolkata. Operated by taxi. This motorized vehicle
the Calcutta Tramways is good for short distance
Company (CTC), it has travel. If you’re in a hurry
a network of 25 routes or want to escape from the
across the city. Aside horrible traffic, this could
from their heritage be your lifesaver. Auto
value, the tram service rickshaws can be found
has been praised for in all major urban and
its eco-friendliness and rural areas of India, except CYCLE RICKSHAW
safety. There are plans southern Mumbai.
to reintroduce trams Unlike hand-pulled rickshaw, cycle rickshaw is
in other parts of the operated by pedaling. It is a very popular mode of
country again. transport for tourists.

TRAVEL &
SAFETY
TIPS
India is a country of extreme contrasts in both the landscape and the culture. Although it is
generally safe and millions of visitors come every year without incident, you should exercise
the same precautions as you would in other countries and be mindful of differences in customs
and habits. Some visitors will thrive in the sensory overload, but culture shock can definitely be
expected in this country of one billion people. Here are some tips to note, especially for first-time
visitors.
BEFORE YOU GO
• Check the weather outlook for the time of year you plan to travel, as monsoon
rains may affect your plans and cause flooding near bodies of water.
• Scan or photocopy your passport, visa and travel documents and store them
separately from the originals. Keep digital copies in your email.
• Get travel and medical insurance for the duration of your stay.
• Take it easy when you plot your itinerary, factoring in possible
inconveniences in terms of mobility and traffic congestion.

DURING YOUR TRIP
Courtesy & Customs
• When eating or passing items, it is polite to use the right hand as the left
hand is considered unclean.
• Note that for many places such as shops and temples, removing
footwear is necessary.
• Public display of affection is frowned upon, so please be discreet.
• Try not to lose your cool, especially when bargaining.
General Precautions
• Take extra care when travelling after dark and avoid walking alone at
night.
• Be prepared to lose your sense of personal space during festivals.
• Be vigilant in public places and tourist areas in major cities, especially
during national holidays, when there is a greater risk of a terrorist attack.
Avoid large demonstrations.
• Be careful of new acquaintances and avoid divulging details of your
travel plans.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of money.
Securing Your Belongings
• Do not leave your belongings unattended and use locks for luggage.
• Keep your shoulder bag on the side opposite the road to avoid snatch
theft.
Body & Hygiene
• For your convenience, bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
• Be aware that henna tattoos may cause skin reactions in some people.
• Wear long, light-coloured, loose clothing and use mosquito repellent in areas where dengue is a risk.
• Make sure beaches are safe for swimming before going into the water.
Eating & Drinking
• Stick to cooked food and steer clear of raw and undercooked food.
• Drink bottled or boiled water and avoid adding ice to your drinks. Check the seal to ensure that bottled water
has not been tampered with. Some tourist establishments may refill your bottle – a more environmentally
friendly way to travel.
• Do not leave drinks unattended and avoid accepting drinks from strangers.
Female Travellers
• Dress modestly, covering your shoulders, legs and cleavage.

• Try to fit in instead of standing out.
• Ignore unwanted attention. Staring, physical contact and further conversation may be misinterpreted.
Mental preparation will help you manage the crowds. If the cities stress you out, head for the
countryside. You will meet all sorts of colourful characters along your journey in the Subcontinent, so
come with an open mind and be ready for the ride.

Anna International
Departure Gates Terminal
MAP
CHENNAI
Waiting Area Waiting Area
LEGE
Shops
Restaurants
Security
Shops
Escalator to Mezzanine CISF Security Checking Zone
& Ground Floors Duty Free Shops Ticketin
Security Check Waiting Area Toilet / R

Rest Rooms
Immigration & Customs Zone

Forex /
Parking
Airline Check-in Counters Immigration Check Airline Check-in Counters Public T

Waiting Area
Rest Rooms Rest Rooms
Self Check-in Waiting
& Baggage Scanning
Money Visitor Check-i

Airline Ticketing Airline Ticketing
Entry Changers Entry Entry Entry Ticket
Counters Counters
/ ATM Counters
Public T
Public Phone Restaurants
Lift to
Arrival Lift
International Terminal Parking

Exit after Exit a
Intenational Dome
Departure Depa
Motor Cycle Prepaid Taxi

Parking Car
Parking
Parking
Toilets
Car
Parking
Smoking
Refreshments
Zone
Building
Bus / Van
Parking
Exit Warning: Map not to scale - For illustration purpose only Exi
P OF Kamaraj Domestic
Departure Gates Terminal
I AIRPORT
END Waiting Area Waiting Area Shops
y Check
Restaurants Shops
Restaurants
ng Counter
Escalator to Mezzanine
& Ground Floors
Rest Room
CISF Security Checking Zone Rest Rooms
ATM Counter
g
Security Check Waiting Area
Telephone Airline Check-in Counters Airline Check-in Counters
Rest Rooms Rest Rooms

g Zone Self Check-in
& Baggage Scanning
in Counter Money Visitor

Airline Ticketing Airline Ticketing
Entry Changers Entry Entry Entry Ticket
Counters Counters
/ ATM Counters
Taxi Public Phone
Restaurants
Lift to
Arrival
Domestic Terminal Parking

after
estic
arture
Prepaid Taxi
Parking
Motor Cycle Car Bus / Van

Parking Parking Parking
Smoking
Shower Toilets
Zone
Entry
it
Departure
klia2: LEVEL 3
TO SATELLITE BUILDING
INTERNATIONAL
Continues
DOMESTIC 4 Next Page
SKYBRIDGE
MAIN TERMINAL
BUILDING
DEPARTURE HALL
Baggage Check
Immigration
3
3
INTERNATIONAL
DEPARTURES
Baggage Check-In
DOMESTIC Drop Counters 2 Counters
DEPARTURES
KFC S T U V W X Y Z
2
Starbucks
ATM Dunkin’
Marrybrown Donuts
Johnny Rockets 1 DOME
MAIN ENTRANCE
FROM GATEWAY@klia2
klia2: LEVEL 2
SATELLITE BUILDING
To Baggage 6 6 To Baggage
Check and Check and
Departure Departure
Gate P 5 Gate Q
INTERNATIONAL
DEPARTURE ROUTE
1 Enter Main Terminal

Building
2 Check-In or Baggage
Drop at counters DOMESTIC
DEPARTURE ROUTE
3 Clear Immigration
1 Enter Main Terminal
Building
4 Go down one floor
to Level 2
Check-In or Baggage
2 Drop at counters
5 Reach level 2
6 Proceed to your
respective gate 3 Proceed to your
respective gate
LEGEND:
Check-In Counters Muslim Prayer Room Information Counter
Wash Room Escalators ATM ATM Machine
Disabled Toilet Lift
Nursery Room Public Phone

Arrival
Gateway@klia2: LEVEL 2
FROM ARRIVAL HALL
TRAIN
BUS /
TAXI
LEGEND:
Ticketing
Counters
Wash Room
Disabled Toilet
Nursery Room
Muslim Prayer
Room KLIA Ekspres
KLIA Transit
Escalators
Lift
Public Phone
Information
Counter
ATM ATM Machine Carpark Carpark
Office Office
Currency
Exchange
Medical Room Carpark Carpark
ARRIVAL HALL & PICK UP ZONE
Gateway@klia2: LEVEL 1
3b TAXI BAY
2
1
3a BUS PICK UP & DROP OFF ZONE
1 Reach Level 1 2 Purchase bus or taxi tickets 3 Proceed to the respective

at the ticketing counters. pick up zones. (a) Bus (b) Taxi
Get our step-by-step Departure and Arrival guides HERE

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AWESOME
INDIA
EVENTS
& FESTIVALS
JANUARY over four days: the first day for spring the ornamented icons of Goddess
cleaning, the second to cook rice Meenakshi are transferred from the
• BikanerFestival with milk and palm sugar, the third to Meenakshi Temple to Mariamman
A rare chance to watch camels honour cattle and the fourth to seek Teppakulam Tank where they are
race, dance and even participate in blessings from older family members. placed on large decorated floats.
a beauty pageant. - Chennai - Madurai, Tamil Nadu (accessible
- Bikaner (accessible via Jaipur) - Tiruchirappalli via Chennai or Tiruchirappalli)
• Milad un-Nabi* • Kerala Village Fair

Muslims celebrate the birthday of The idea behind this 10-day fair FEBRUARY
Prophet Muhammad day with night-long is to replicate an entire traditional
prayers, parades and communal meals. Keralan village which includes • Vasant Panchami* JAN/FEB
- Observed nationwide mansions, tea shops, artisans’ Vasant Panchami marks the start of
enclave and cultural performances. the festivities of spring, and it is also
• Lohri* - Kovalam (accessible via Kochi) celebrated as the birthday of Saraswati,
A festival to celebrate the passing the goddess of learning and fine arts.
of the coldest month of the year. • Mamallapuram Dance Festival - Chandigarh
Children go from door-to-door to A chance to catch performances - Kolkata
collect offerings of sweets to throw such as Bharata Natyam, Kathak,
into community bonfires. Kathakali, Kuchipudi and many • Nagaur Fair JAN/FEB
- Chandigarh more. People travel hundreds of miles
- Mamallapuram (access via through the Great Indian Desert to
• Makar Sankranti* trade their finest bulls and enjoy
Chennai or Tiruchirappalli)
A harvest festival welcoming the music, dances and games.
start of spring and the sun’s ascent • Republic Day 26 JANUARY - Nagaur (accessible via Jaipur)
to the north, celebrated by taking Honouring the establishment of the
baths in the rivers, kite-flying and Constitution of India. Celebrated • Maha Shivaratri*
eating sesame sweets. with military parades, decorated A night of vigil, fasting and
- Bengaluru floats, dance performances and meditation for devotees of Lord
- Kolkata award presentations. Shiva.Bengaluru
- Pune - Observed nationwide - Chandigarh
- Visakhapatnam - Kochi
• The
Float Festival of Madurai - Pune
• Pongal* The highlight of the festival is when - Visakhapatnam
The Tamil harvest festival is celebrated
hold special services, parades and
MARCH open-air plays of Jesus’ final hours. JULY
- Bengaluru
- Chandigarh • Idul Fitr*/ Meethi Eid
- Chennai Also called Eid al-Fitr, it is a
- New Delhi celebration to mark the end of the
- Goa Islamic holy month of Ramadan. In
- Guwahati India, this festival is called “meethi”
- Kochi or “sweet” as it is customary
- Kolkata to serve traditional sweets and
- Pune desserts, especially meethi seviyan
- Tiruchirappalli (sweet vermicelli).
- Visakhapatnam - Observed nationwide except Goa,
• Holi* Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh
A festival of love and colours to • Mahavir Jayanti*
welcome spring, where you have The most important religious holiday in
a good reason to throw coloured Jainism, a day to celebrate the birthday AUGUST
powder and water at strangers and of Mahavira, the last Tirthankara (a
person who has conquered the cycle • Independence Day 15 AUGUST
generally have a good time.
- Chandigarh of death and rebirth). Commemoration of India’s
- New Delhi - Bengaluru independence from the British
- Goa - Chandigarh Empire. All across the country, flags
- Guwahati - Chennai are hoisted, kites are flown and
- Jaipur - Jaipur cultural events are held.
- Kolkata - Pune - Observed nationwide
- Pune - Tiruchirappalli
• Onam*
• Ugadi* • Puthandu* Kerala’s ancient harvest festival,
New Year’s Day for the people of The first day of Tamil New Year, when the return of the spirit of King
Deccan. The festival is celebrated celebrated with offerings to the gods Mahabali is celebrated with songs,
with cleaning the house, visiting and making of kolam (patterns on dances, games and feasts.
temples and making rangoli the floor made from coloured rice). - Kochi
(colourful design on the floor). - Chennai
- Bengaluru - Tiruchirappalli • Raksha Bandhan*
- Pune Celebration of the love and duty
- Visakhapatnam shared between sisters and
MAY brothers. Sisters tie rakhi, sacred
• Rama Navami* thread of protection, on their
• Buddha Purnima*
The birthday of Rama, the seventh brothers’ right wrists.
Commemorating the birth,
avatar of Lord Vishnu, is observed - Chandigarh
enlightenment and death of Gautama
with fasting in his name and - Hyderabad
Buddha. Buddhists decorate
a discourse of the epic poem - Jaipur
temples, give alms to the poor, and
Ramayana. - Kolkata
release animals back to nature.
- Chandigarh - Pune
- Kolkata
- New Delhi
- Pune
- Jaipur
- Pune
APRIL
• GoodFriday* MARCH/APRIL
One of the most solemn and
important days for Christians,
commemorating of crucifixion and
death of Jesus Christ. Churches
NOVEMBER
• LakshmiPuja*
To get the blessings of Lakshmi, the
goddess of love and wealth, people
clean and decorate their houses,
serve meals to the Brahmans and
offer sweets to deities.
- Kolkata
• Diwali*
The Festival of Lights is celebrated
with the lighting of clay lamps,
candles and fireworks. It signifies
the victory of light over darkness,
good over evil.
- Bengaluru
- Chandigarh
- Bengaluru - Chennai
SEPTEMBER - Chandigarh - New Delhi
- New Delhi - Goa
• KrishnaJanmashtami* - Goa - Guwahati
Celebration of the birth of Krishna, - Guwahati - Jaipur
the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu. - Jaipur - Kochi
He is revered with songs, prayers, - Kochi - Pune
dances, feasts and also cleansing - Kolkata - Tiruchirappalli
his images in an elaborate - Pune - Vishakapatnam
ceremony that can last for hours. - Visakhapatnam
- Chandigarh • Kali
Puja*
- Chennai A festival dedicated to Kali, the
- New Delhi OCTOBER goddess of time and destruction.
- Jaipur Aside from prayers and rituals, the
- Tiruchirappalli • GandhiJayanti day is also celebrated with rangoli
The Father of the Nation is patterns in front of the houses,
• Ganesh Chaturhi* remembered with prayer firecrackers and fireworks display.
Birthday of Lord Ganesh, the god of services, art exhibitions, essay - Kolkata
the beginning and wisdom. Elaborately competitions and discussions on
crafted images of Lord Ganesh are his achievements.
paraded around the town, accompanied - Observed nationwide DECEMBER
by songs and dances, before they are
immersed in a body of water. • Navaratri, Dussehra, Durga Puja* • Christmas Day 25 DECEMBER
- Bengaluru The festival of triumph, is The largest Christian celebration,
- Chennai celebrated over nine nights in commemorating Jesus Christ’s
- Goa honour of Durga, the Supreme birth. People display star-shaped
- Pune Mother Goddess. The festival lanterns, putting up the best
- Tiruchirappalli is also known as Durga Puja in nativity scenes and serving the
- Visakhapatnam eastern India, and is famous for the tastiest fruitcakes.
immersion of Durga’s images into - Observed nationwide
• IdulJuha / Bakri Eid* the holy Ganges River.
Also known as Eid al-Adha, the Islamic - Bengaluru
Feast of Sacrifice. Wealthier families - Chennai
are expected to sacrifice cattle, - Hyderabad
sheep, camel or sheep as a sign of - Kolkata
devotion. Two-thirds of the meat will be - Pune *Dates of Hindu, Islamic and other
distributed among the poor. - Tiruchirappalli calendars move from year to year.
ov e r
yo u to KOREA
e ctin g c ro ss
Conn inations a
st
Seoul
a.
Beijing
e li
Busan
90 d u stra
an d A JAPAN
A sia Tokyo
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Shanghai
Xi’an
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NEPAL Chongqing
Changsha
Kathmandu CHINA
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Chandigarh Hong Kong
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Jaipur
Guwahati VIETNAM Macau
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Pune Visakhapatnam Hanoi
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KRISHNARAJENDRA (KR) CITY

Bengaluru’s oldest and busiest

ADMISSION No entry to public ACTIVITIES

Bengaluru’s Hare Krishna temple

ADMISSION FREE. Fees

TIPU SULTAN’S SUMMER PALACE ACTIVITIES

The quiet summer residence of FANS SUGGEST!

HOW ISKCON Temple of Bengaluru is dedicated to Lord Krishna

ADMISSION Variable, depending

BISI BELE BATH Typical but never

Kochi 14x weekly INR 1106 Vivanta By Taj Yeshwantpur

Mysore Palace is also known as

Pushkarni (stepped bathing well) of

Brigade Road is one of the busiest

DAY DAY DAY

• ISKCON Temple • Lal Bagh Botanical Garden • Bannerghatta National Park

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Colourful statues at Nek Chand Rock Garden

NEK CHAND ROCK GARDEN ACTIVITIES CONTACT

ADMISSION Adult INR 5, Child

ADMISSION Adult INR 10,

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CAPITOL COMPLEX CONTACT

Bengaluru 7x weekly INR 3550 BOOK NOW

Horse statues at Nek Chand Rock Garden

Capitol Complex’s Palace of the Assembly

DAY DAY DAY

• Sukhna Lake • Sector 17

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Marina Beach is an urban beach, which

MARINA BEACH ACTIVITIES ADMISSION FREE

Marina Beach is synonymous with HOW

The grand neo- Vivekananda House is also known as

The historical place where Swami

Established in 1851, it is the

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ARIGNAR ANNA ZOOLOGICAL PARK

The largest zoological park in India

It may be the smallest national park in ADMISSION Adult INR 30,

BUY international brands within modern

Kuala Lumpur 14x weekly MYR 272.08

DAY DAY DAY

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cultural heart of mighty empires. Its majestic legacy is built

AGRA SMART TIP