Kerala Tourist Destinations - Most Beautiful Natural Places to Visit

Kerala Tourist Destinations  - Most Beautiful Natural Places to Visit 

Kerala, the south Indian state between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, is one of the most popular tourist destinations all around the world. Blessed with timeless natural wonders like wildlife, mountains, rivers, backwaters, lakes, hill stations, plains, plantations- it charms both local as well as international tourists. The state boasts of several destinations, each with its own unique features, that makes them all perfect places to explore. These Kerala destinations are explored by tourists throughout the year.

An Overview
Kerala is a beautiful state that conjures up the image of pristine green foliage, interlinked channels of canals, backwater and rivers, fishing boats returning at sunset, rich temples with its traditional practices and one of the most friendly, jovial and laid back people in India. These are just a few reasons which make the state a popular tourist destination of India and World. This socialist state is a successful model of socialism in India and its proper implementation sees the highest literacy rate in India. The geographical diversity is vast as the state is blessed with sheer cliffs of Western Ghats in the Northern Malabar and the eastern portion is covered by Nilgiri and Palni Hills. The southern region is full of green foliage and a channel of interlinked canals, rivers and lakes all separated from the Arabian Sea by narrow strip of land and some of the most pristine white sand beaches of World are present here.


Some of the best Kerala Tourism destinations are:

Thiruvananthapuram
Previously known as Trivandrum, this laid-back capital of Kerala has an easy-going old world charm. Places worth seeing while in Thiruvananthapuram, are the Padmanabhapuram Palace, the Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, and the Puttan Malika Palace where the maharajas of Travancore held court. The museum at the palace displays historical artifacts and exquisite paintings by Raja Ravi Verma. Many buildings in Thiruvananthapuram display the traditional architecture of Kerala, with tiled roofs, carved wooden pillars and large verandahs overlooking green lawns. English is commonly spoken across Kerala and the pleasant climate of this city makes a tour of Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, a relaxing and enjoyable trip.

Kovalam
This group of three crescent shaped beaches is known as one of the best beach resorts in India. With clean sandy stretches, opportunities for water sports and Ayurvedic masseurs offering their services to visitors alongside the beach, you're sure to enjoy a relaxing vacation in this idyllic beach paradise.

Kochi
Previously known as Cochin, this important port city is known for the Chinese Fishing nets seen in its harbor and for its legendary spices including pepper, which were exported from Cochin to the West. With many foreign powers setting up trading houses in this city, the architecture of Kochi reflects this international influence. Fort Cochin, the St. Francis Church, the spice market and the Jewish Synagogue are places to see on your tour of Kochi. A sunset cruise in Kochi harbor where you see the sun dip below the sea and the last rays of light silhouette the Chinese fishing nets is an experience that's not to be missed when you travel to Kochi.

Kerala Backwaters
Traveling on a houseboat, through a quiet world of wind and water, with no noises but the swaying of the palm trees, the birds calling to each other and the sound of water splashing against the hull of your boat. Before you sleep at night, you can try to count the myriad stars in the clear sky above you, on the backwaters of Kerala. The waterways that connect the villages along the backwaters, reveal fascinating glimpses of village life in Kerala - you can see children running alongside, fields being ploughed and fishing eagles and cormorants diving for fish, as you drift along on a backwater cruise in Kerala. Most cruises are organized around Alleppey, Kuttanad and Kochi in Kerala.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
This wildlife sanctuary in the Idukki district of Kerala, is set around the Periyar Lake - an artificial lake created by a dam on the Periyar River. Originally the royal hunting ground of the Maharajas of Travancore, Periyar is now a protected national park. A boat cruise on the lake lets tourists observe the animals from nearby, as they come to the waters edge to drink. Herds of elephants come together and can be seen drinking, bathing and playing nears the water. Other wildlife that can be seen in Periyar include tigers, leopards, monkeys, nilgai, sloth bear, porcupine, the Malabar Flying Squirrel and many birds including the Great Indian Hornbill. The best time to visit Periyar is between December and April.

Allappuzha
Known for the annual snake boat races, hld in this sea saide town around the fetival of Onam, in Kerala, Allappuzha or Alleppey is transformed into a hub of excitement as tams of rowers power the swift snake boats called Chundanvalloms through the waters, competing for the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race.

Thrissur
The temple festival at Thrissur is a grand event where two rows of magnificently decorated tuskers, stand facing each other while drummers beat out a traditional rhythm and representatives of the temple raise colored parasols over the elephants bearing the images of the deities of neighboring temples, is both an intense religious event and a colorful tourist attraction in Kerala.

Munnar
Located in the hill ranges of Kerala, Munnar is a vision in green. Some of the highest tea estates in Kerala can be seen in Munnar, as the hills surrounding this scenic town are carpeted with tea bushes, spice plantations and greenery. There are also opportunities for nature walks, trekking and bird watching tours in Munnar.

Ponmudi
This hillstation in the Western Ghats, located around 65 km from Thiruvananthapuram, is a picturesque getaway. The green hills, with winding roads, pretty cottages, and an abundance of birds and butterflies flying through the spice plantations and tea estates, make it an idyllic Kerala tourism destination. These are some of the well-known tourism destinations of Kerala. There are many more beaches, hill stations, and quiet getaways in Kerala where you can enjoy a relaxing holiday on tours of Kerala, India.

Thekkady
Thickly forested Thekkady is just the place for wildlife enthusiasts. Famous for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary located around the serene Periyar Lake, Thekkady enchants you with picturesque vistas and abundant wildlife. Tour spice plantations and see the attractions of spice plantations that envelop entire Thekkady in a delightfully aromatic mist. Tour Pullumedu , Ottakathalamedu and Kurusimala as you discover magical Thekkady and its myriad charms.

PENCH NATIONAL PARK WILDLIFE DESTINATIONS OF INDIA

PENCH NATIONAL PARK WILDLIFE DESTINATIONS OF INDIA 

Pench National Park falls under the Seoni and Chhindwara districts of Madhya Pradesh. It derives its name from the Pench River that flows through its heart and divides it into two, equal western and eastern halves - Chhindwara and Seoni respectively. The park is known for its population of the fearless master predator. Most of the tourists come to visit the place, hoping to catch a glimpse of the Tiger. Pench offers its visitors numerous wildlife attractions which include over 39 species of mammals, 13 species of reptiles, 3 species of amphibians and more than 210 varieties of birds.

Some of the prominent avian residents of the park include the barbet, bulbul, minivet oriole, wagtail, munia, myna, malabal pied hornbill, collared scops, owl, waterfowl and blue kingfisher among other variety of animals which can be commonly seen adorning the skies of Pench.

Major mammalian species found in the region include animals like cheetal, sambar, nilgai, wild pig, tiger, leopard, jungle cat, leopard cat, striped hyena, wild dog, wolf, sloth bear, pangolin and the mighty Indian gaur.

Adventure Unleashed - Night Safaris
Adventurous folk and wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted to know that Pench Tiger Reserve has recently introduced an awesome night safari. The reserve, part of the Project Tiger scheme and located in Seoni and Chhindwara district of Madhya Pradesh; recently started experimenting with night safaris to excite and draw more visitors. Final decision on elevating it to the status of a permanent package depends on tourist reviews. Renowned as Wolf Safari due to consistent sightings of these carnivores, the tour displays myriad animals ranging from spotted deer, jackals, sambar, deer, nilgai, etc. Leopards and Tigers, being the prized catch, offer occasional sightings. Visitors’ safety being a top notch priority; only five jeeps are operated per night and due care is undertaken not to unnerve the animal kingdom. Tour timings are 7 pm in the evening until 10.30 or 11 in the night. Further, it covers only the buffer zone and a water hole, famed for watching varied wildlife.

Climate
The temperature rages from a maximum of 42°C in May ad June to around 4°C in winter. Casual summer clothing of natural colours is best from March to May. From November to February carry warm clothing for chilly mornings and misty evening.

Flora
The flora of Pench Tiger Reserve comprises mainly of Southern Indian tropical moist deciduous forest and tropical dry deciduous teak. Water bodies are found in the form of streams and 'nallahs'. Most of them are seasonal and meander in full zest during the monsoons. Pench River, which serves as the major water source, desiccates or dries up in April end. Then, water pools known as 'dohs' serve as water suppliers for the fauna of the park, along with Pench Reservoir. Teak is abundant and bamboos are sparse, and restricted to the valleys. White kuku trees are very common and stand out prominently amidst the greenery

Fauna
Tigers are usually seen around the Pench River, as the density of prey population is higher here. There are 25 tigers recorded in this park. It is also the jungle abode of 39 species of mammals, 13 species of reptiles, 3 species of amphibians and over 170 varieties of birds. Major species of fauna include leopards, cheetal, sambar, nilgai, jackals, wild dogs, gaur, sloth bears, langoors, small Indian civets and palm civets. There are also more than 210 species of birds, including a host of migratory species. The most common birds are peafowl, crow pheasant, crimson breasted barbet, red vented bulbul, red jungle fowl, racket tailed drongo, magpie robin and whistling teal.

Travel Tips
Early morning safari can be the most rewarding if you want to spot tigers and other rare animals.

Best Time to Visit
The visiting season of Pench national park starts from November to June, as the park remains closed during the monsoon months from July to October

NAGARHOLE NATIONAL PARK WILDLIFE DESTINATION OF INDIA

NAGARHOLE NATIONAL PARK WILDLIFE DESTINATION OF INDIA

Nagarhole National Park, the enchanting 247 square-mile park in Karnataka has an astonishing abundance of wildlife including large mammals such as tiger, leopard, wild elephant, Dhole (Indian wild dog), and Gaur (Indian bison).

The park derives its name from the combination of two Kannada words. 'Naga,' meaning snake, and 'hole,' meaning streams. True to its name, quite a few serpentine streams fork through the rich tropical forests of the park. The landscape is one of gentle slopes and shallow valleys. Dry deciduous forest trees are leafless in the summer rather than in the winter. There are grassy swamps where the soil is clayey, perennially moist, and which support a luxuriant growth of green grass all year. The change in terrain throughout the park in refreshing and the river system provides a unique wildlife viewing experience. The park has been recently renamed as Rajiv Gandhi National Park after the late Prime Minister of India.

Nagarhole National Park is counted among India’s best wildlife parks due to the large elephant and bison population. It also hosts a variety of animal species along with approximately 250 species of birds. On its northern confines is the Kabini River and on its southern fringes is the Bandipur national park. A dam on the Kabini River and its picturesque reservoir demarcates the two national parks. During the dry season (February till June), this artificial lake attracts a large number of animals, making it an ideal spot for sighting wildlife.

Climate & Rainfall
The summer (March to May) temperature slightly crosses 30°C mark. The brief winter, which lasts from November to January, has temperature plummeting to 14°C. Monsoon is erratic, but it generally rains from June to September. The annual rainfall recorded is 1,440 millimeters (57 in).

Flora
The predominant vegetation in the Nagarhole National Park is of southern tropical, moist, mixed deciduous type with a substantial eastern portion intergrading into dry deciduous type. The upper tree canopy is dominated by Terminalia tomentosa in association with Tectonia grandis, Dalbergia latifolia, Pterocarpus marsupium, Lagerstroemia lanceolata, Anogeissus latifolia, Adina cordifolia, Boambax malabaricum, Schleichera trijuga, Ficus sp. and others. The lower canopy has Kydia calycina, Emblica officinalis, Gmelina arborea etc. Several shrubs belonging to Solanum, Desmodium and Helicteres sp. etc. are abundantly found but weedy shrubs like Eupatorium and Lantana now dominate.

Fauna
Mammals
The important predators and carnivora in the Nagarhole National Park are tiger, leopard, wild dog (dhole or Cuon alpinus), sloth bear and the hyena (Hyaena hyaena). The herbivores are spotted deer, sambar deer, barking deer, four-horned antelope (Tetracerus quadricornis), gaur (Bos gaurus), wild boar (Sus scrofa) and elephant. Nagarhole National Park provides an opportunity to see some of the southern population of Gaur (jungle Bison). Also, this park in Karnataka is a good place to see elephants in the luxuriant forests and bamboo thickets which they most enjoy. Their total population in southern India is now about 6500, nearly all living in the area where Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala adjoin in the shadow of the Western Ghats. Other mammalian miscellany includes the common langur (Presbytes entellus), Bonnet macaque (Macaca radiata), jungle cat, slender Loris (Loris tadigradus), leopard-cat (Felis bengalensis), civet cat (Viverricula indica and Paradoxurus hermaphroditus), mongoose (Herpestes fuscus and Herpestes vitticollis), common otter (Lutra lutra), giant flying squirrel (Petaurista petaurista), giant squirrel (Ratufa indica), porcupine, jackal, mouse-deer (Tragulus meminna), hare and pangolin (Manis crassicaudata).

Birds
Over 250 species of birds are found at Nagarhole National Park. Besides the enormous variety of woodland birds, there are large congregations of water fowl in the Kabini River. Birds range from blue-bearded bee-eater, scarlet minivet and Malabar whistling thrush to the more common ospreys, herons and ducks.

Reptiles
Among reptiles, the marsh crocodile, monitor lizard, rock python and several other species are represented. Aquatic and terrestrial tortoises, frogs, toads and tree frogs and myriad insects, including some very colourful butterflies, adorn this lovely southern jungle of India.

How to Reach
By Air
Nearest airports are Mysore (96 km.), Bangalore (236 km.). Regular flights are available to Bangalore from all the key cities in India. Bangalore is connected with several international cities as well.

BY RAIL
The nearest railway station, Mysore railway station is which is 80 km away from Nagarhole. Mysore is connected to Bangalore, which is 220 km away from Nagarhole. Bangalore is well connected to all the other cities in India. Taxi services are available from Bangalore to Nagarhole which costs about Rs 5,000 and from Mysore to Nagarhole costing about Rs 2,000.

BY ROAD
Bus services are available from the places around Nagarahole like Mysore (96 km.), Bangalore (236 km.), Madikere (93 km.) and Hunsur.

Travel Tips
One must arrive at the park gates well before dusk, for the road through the park that leads to the lodges is prone to elephant blocks and closes at 6 pm. Those interested in trekking should avoid visiting the park during monsoons as floods wash out most of its dirt tracks and leeches render trekking impossible.

Best Time to Visit
The best season to visit Nagarhole National Park is October to May. The park usually remains closed during monsoon season (June to September).

Top Tourist Attractions and Must see Places in Udaipur, Rajasthan, Udaipur Tourist Attractions

Tourist Attractions and Must see Places in Udaipur

Udaipur casts its spell and everyone gets mesmerized by it! It wouldn’t be incorrect if we label Udaipur as one of the most romantic places in India. Proffering a perfect mélange of culture, history and traditions, the gorgeous city makes for the perfect honeymoon destination, cultural centre and face of Rajasthan. I believe what gives Udaipur its pretty face is the brilliant architecture and the Mewars should be given the credit for it. These wise rulers literally created an oasis amid the desert, thanks to their love for leisure and passion for creation. There is so much that one can see in Udaipur and most of these attractions have been built and created by the Maharanas. Check out this list of tourist places that we have prepared for you, so that you do not miss out on the best that Udaipur has to offer:

City Palace
The true reflection of the grandeur of Rajasthan, City Palace is amongst the top places to visit in Udaipur. It is conglomeration of several buildings and towers and is better recognized as a Palace Complex. Belonging to the royal Mewar family, City Palace has a number of features that greatly attract tourist. Needless to say that the architecture is exquisite; there are a few structures that leave the visitor awestruck. The crystal gallery, the vintage car museum, Daawat-i-Aam, Daawat-i-Khas, Maharani Palace and the view of the city and Lake Pichola are the major attractions of City Palace. Visitors also like to stay up late for the Mewar Light and Sound Show that is organized every evening here. City Palace is the identity of the city, and it indeed adds to the exoticism of Udaipur.

Lake Pichola
Just about everybody knows about the gorgeous Lake Pichola; it’s like another vital identity of Udaipur. It is a 4kms long man-made lake and is believed to be one of the most beautiful ones as well. Visitors to Udaipur cannot miss out on taking a boat ride on Lake Pichola which starts from Rameshwar Ghat in the City Palace. The lake has two famed islands namely Jagniwas and Jagmandir. At Jagniwas Island one has the opportunity to witness another famous place in Udaipur – the Lake Palace (Now known as Taj Lake Palace), whereas on Jagmandir Island, one can visit the popular Jag Mandir, the palace.

Lake Palace
Marvelously built on Lake Pichola, Lake Palace is one of the most visited places in Udaipur. Situated on Jagniwas Island it is now run by the Taj group and is popularly known as Taj Lake Palace. With the Aravalli Hills in the background, Lake Palace makes one of the most romantic places in Rajasthan. Even if one cannot afford to stay here, one should definitely consider taking a heritage walk of this hotel. Built by Maharaja Jagat Singh II, the palace is an exemplary of exquisite architecture that comprises gilt moldings, fretwork screens and sculpted marbles. At Lake Palace, romance gets redefined!

Jag Mandir
A 17th century structure that stands gloriously amidst Lake Pichola on the Jagmandir Island, Jag Mandir is an excellent place to visit on Udaipur tour. Jagmandir is an impressive set of structures with the central building being called Jagmandir, which can be recognized by the marble-made elephants positioned outside. It is a three-storied structure and includes sections like Gul Mahal, an elegant façade, a Garden Courtyard and the Darikhana on its northern side, the Bara Patharon ka Mahal (palace of the 12 stones), the Zenana Mahal – a southern extension to the Gul Mahal and the Kunwar Pada ka Mahal. During the boat ride on Lake Pichola, a lot of tourists make sure that they visit this beautiful place.

Jagdish Temple
It is an Indo-Aryan Temple built by Maharana Jagat Singh. The temple is located near the Badi Pol entrance of the City Palace and one can easily find a way up to it through the elephant-flanked steps. The deity of Lord Vishnu in black stone (in the form of Jagganath) presides over this temple. There is also a brass image of Vishnu’s vehicle Garuda facing the statue of Lord Vishnu in the main shrine. There are many small shrines other than the main temple and are dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the Sun God, Goddess Shakti and Lord Shiva. A large number of devotees throng the temple, especially to watch the Aarti that takes place at every sunrise and sunset.

Lake Fatehsagar
The charm of Udaipur is incomplete without Fateh Sagar Lake, which is situated in the north of Lake Pichola and is connected to it through a canal. It is also one of the major tourist attractions in Udaipur. Taking a boat ride on Lake Fatehsagar is indeed a must-do activity in the city if you are looking for some fun in the city. There are three islands in the lake out of which Nehru Park is the most famous. It is also an ideal place for family outing as it has a zoo.

Saheliyon Ki Bari
‘The Garden of the Maidens’ as it literally means, Saheliyon ki Bari was constructed by Maharana Bhopal Singh. Situated in the northern part of the city, this exquisite place was built for the maids who accompanied the Princess to Udaipur (reckoned to be part of the dowry). Saheliyon kI Bari was one of those places where the maids could make merry, sing, dance and indulge in recreational activities. The garden is festooned with well-maintained fountains, kiosks, marble elephants and a delightful lotus pool. It is one delightful place that is a must visit in Udaipur!

Bhartiya Lok Kala Museum
It is a folk-art museum in Udaipur that is situated in the Chetak Circle. Bhartiya Lok Kala Museum is a perfect place for the history lovers as it displays a collection of Rajasthani culture. Offering an insight into the lifestyle of the royal era in Udaipur, the museum has a fine collection of dresses, tribal jewellery, turbans, dolls, masks, musical instruments, paintings and puppets, which are the highlight of the museum.

Bagore Ki Haveli
It is one of the most attractive places to see in Udaipur. Bagore ki Haveli is situated on the Ganguar Ghat (on Lake Pichola) and thus offers a splendid view of the lake. Known for its architectural splendor, the Haveli is a massive structure that now offers a peek inside the royal life of the Maharajas and the Maharanis. This grand structure has 100 rooms and each room has fine decoration with mirror work. One can also take a look at the jewellery boxes, dice-games, hukkas, pan boxes, nut crackers, hand fans, rose water sprinklers, copper vessels, paintings of Mewar, and beautiful peacocks, which surely are reminiscent of one glorious era. The evening dance and music show is also quite popular amongst the tourists here.

Ahar
The royal cremation ground in Udaipur, Ahar is situated about 3kms away from the city. Like the palaces, the Mewar Kings have put effort to make the cremation area look resplendent as well. With 372 cenotaphs of the maharanas and queens of Mewar, Ahar is a spectacular place of snowy domes. Amongst all the cenotaphs, Maharana Sangram Singh’s cenotaph has been the most attractive and popular with the tourists. Ahar is one calm and quiet place and is thus visited by people who either love history or are in search of peace.

Ambrai Ghat
Located on the bank of Lake Pichola, Ambrai Ghat is a wonderful place for photographers. City Palace and Lake Palace overlook this beautiful ghat, which means one gets an exclusive view of the two palaces from here. Ambrai Ghat often remains crowded with a large number of local couples coming here in the evening as the place is quite romantic. Sunset is the best time to be here as one can click the most beautiful pictures at that time.

Monsoon Palace/Sajjangarh Palace
Located at a distance of about 9kms from the Old City of Udaipur, Monsoon Palace was once the favoured destination of the royal family during the monsoon season. The palace is perched upon a hill and from a distance looks like one of those castles from a fairy-tale. The palace is now famed for the sunset view. One can also visit the nearby Sajjangarh Wildlife sanctuary if you want to add to the fun of visiting the Monsoon Palace.

Shilpgram
If you are someone who likes to learn about culture, Shilpgram in Udaipur is the right place for you! This Craftsmen’s Village is situated at a distance of 3kms from the main city. Shilpgram is a wonderful place to see the different traditions and culture of India as this government-owned complex showcases the rural life of Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Goa. Other than buying the traditionally made items here, one can also enjoy horse and camel rides along with traditional dance and music.

Moti Magri
It is a hilltop that has the famous Maharana Pratap Memorial. The hill overlooks Lake Fatehsagar and also has one of the earliest palaces in Mewar called Moti Mahal, where once Maharana Udai Singh lived. The delightful Japanese Rock Garden and the Pratp Smarak are the highlight of Moti Magri. The height of the hill allows tourists to click some of the best pictures of the city. A light and sound show is also organized in the evening here showcasing the thousand years of rule of Mewar.

Vintage Classic Cars Museum
Another peek at royalty can very well be taken at the Vintage Classic Cars Museum, which has a car collection of the Maharaja. Housed in the former state garage are 22 vehicles, which includes a seven-seat 1938 Cadillac; 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom, which was used in the famous James Bond movie, Octopussy; and the Cadillac convertible that once whisked Queen Elizabeth II to the airport in 1961. This museum is situated at a short distance of 1km from City Palace and is indeed one of the best places for sightseeing in Udaipur.


Kumbhalgarh Fort
Kumbhalgarh Fort is about two hours drive from Udaipur and is truly majestic! It was built by Rana Kumbha during the 15th century and so far it is considered the most important fort of the Mewar kingdom after Chittorgarh. It is believed that the legendary Mewar warrior Maharana Pratap was born here in the fort. Kumbhalgarh Fort is yet another tourist attraction in Udaipur that one must not miss out on. Along with the fort, one can also visit the famous Haldi Ghati where the great battle involving Maharana Pratap took place.

Ek Lingji Temple
Eklingji Temple is one of the most famous temples of Rajasthan and is located at a distance of 22 km from Udaipur. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built in 734 A.D. by Bappa Rawal. The architecture of the temple is worth praising; it is a double-storied temple that looks magnificent with its pyramidal style of roof and distinctly carved tower. Inside the main temple is a huge pillared hall or ‘mandap’ and on entering the hall one can see a silver image of Nandi. The temple also boasts of a four-faced idol of Eklingji (Lord Shiva) which is made out of black marble and is of the height of around 50 feet. The Shivlinga (The phallic form of Lord Shiva) is garlanded by a silver snake and is also the major attraction for devotees.

Mansapurna Karni Ropeway
A popular tourist attraction, Mansapurna Karni Ropeway is enjoyed by almost everyone who visits Udaipur city. This cable car is installed between two mountains on the bank of Lake Pichola. Tourist admires the view from the Gondolas and clicks a lot of photographs as from here you can get the best view of Udaipur. Lake Pichola, Lake Fateh Sagar, City Palace complex, Sajjangarh Fort and the Aravali mountains on the other side of the lake can be seen from here clearly.

Jaisamand Lake/Dhebar Lake
It is renowned as one of the largest artificial lakes in India and located at a distance of about 48 kms from Udaipur. Jaisamand Lake, which is also known as Dhebar Lake, was built in 1685 by Maharana Jai Singh. It sprawls across an area of 36sq km, which makes it quite massive. The dam on this lake is the major attraction as it is about 1202 feet in length, 116 feet in height and 70 feet in width at the bottom. Another attraction here is the Shiva Temple. The lake is a great place to sit by or to be with a loved one; it is also an ideal place to contemplate nature.

Udaipur Solar Observatory
Situated on an island in the Fateh Sagar Lake, Solar Observatory of Udaipur is considered as the best solar observing site in India. It was designed as per the model of Solar Observatory at Big Bear Lake in Southern California and was established by Dr. Arvind Bhatnagar. Favourably surrounded by water, it offers a great atmosphere for solar observations. The only way to reach the observatory is by taking a boat and that definitely enhances the fun and adventure here. If you are in Udaipur it is one place that you should pay a visit to!

Conclusion
Udaipur is full of surprises, so do not consider this list the gist of the city.. There is still much left that you can discover on your own in this gorgeous city BUT for that you have to visit this place. Make sure you book a hotel

well in advance and try and pick the hotel that offers a view of the Lake Palace or the City Palace from the room, that way your stay will be more pleasant. There are also some great places near Udaipur like Ranakpur that one can visit; so make sure you research a bit more before travelling to Udaipur.

Top and Best Summer Holiday Destinations In India - Honeymoon, Beaches, Hill-station, Backwaters, Adventure, Wildlife, Ayurveda, Pilgrimage

Top and Best Summer Holiday Destinations In India
List of the Top and Best summer Holiday Destinations in India, featuring cool hill stations, pristine beaches and rejuvenating Ayurveda resorts. For those who are planning a summer vacation in India, here are some amazing options for holiday destinations during the hot months

Kashmir
The original "Paradise on Earth" is a summer delight – cool locales, romantic Shikara on the picturesque Dal, blooming Shalimar Gardens are all views to cherish.

Uttarakhand
From Yoga classes to rafting and wildlife stays to humbling pilgrimages – there's something for everyone in Uttarakhand. A particular favorite with foreigners.

Himachal Pradesh
The Abode of the Himalayas is India's favorite summer destination and home to 100+ hill stations in India. Pine forests and apple orchards further add to its appeal.

Ladakh
The seemingly photoshopped Buddhist ex-kingdom is home to gompas flanked by whitewashed stupas. Ladakh's cold desert is nature's boon and bane to the Himalayas.

Kerala
"God's Own Country" is a true revelation in summers. If the numerous beaches, backwaters and Ayurveda in Kerala don't get you, the exotic culture and cuisine will!

Goa
The tiny emerald Goa, the most popular beach destination in South East Asia just got even hotter! Goa's balmy beaches dole out fun in crazy measures. Evident colonial hangover!

Northeast India
The home of the great Brahmaputra and 30+ tribes that caps India's Northeastern borders – no other Indian region is as naturally blessed and verdant as the seven north east states.

Shimla
An engaging hill town with colonial charm and a relatively developed capital city – all rolled into one. Shimla is to hill stations what Shakespeare is to literature – indispensible!

Nainital
What was once the favorite summer retreat of the British is still a hot favorite among summer destinations in India. The ideal weekend getaway from Delhi and around.

Munnar
Emerald green plantations, complimented by a low mountain concentration, best describe Munnar's landscape. Located close to several other key tourist areas. Read more on Munnar

Kaziranga National Park
If wildlife is what spools your adrenaline, no other place will give you a greater rush. Watch wild rhinoceros in action in the middle of exotic flora and fauna.

Ooty
Ooty offers the best respite from a somewhat harsh sun in South India. Also popular with religious devotees owing to the large number of temples present here.

Gangtok
The proverbial jewel in the crown of the North East India, Gangtok is the perfect potpourri of several ethnicities and their cultures, together bound in harmony!

Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal or just Kodai, if you please, strikes that perfect climatic equilibrium – not cold but cool enough, and not hot but warm enough. Ideal for 2 day trips.

Dalhousie
This quaint little town in upper Himachal Pradesh was the favorite summer retreat of the British. The place still retains its colonial hangover and is a great host.

Wayanad
One third of the popular Ooty-Mysore-Wayanad circuit, Wayanad's imperious waterfalls and lush green cover strengthen its image as a popular summer destination.

Srinagar
Jammu and Kashmir's capital city is the tourist Mecca of India, with a host of attractions bejeweled in its lofty mountains. Especially popular with families, couples and foreigners.

Gulmarg
India's own representation of a ski resort best in Asia, Gulmarg is a regular feature in Bollywood movies, thanks to its aesthetics, almost unreal landscape that pulls everyone.

Ranikhet
Ranikhet majorly is a cantonment area surrounded by the humbling Himalayas on all sides. Comparatively more secluded than other 'touristy' hill stations.

Corbett National Park
Made famous by the great Ruskin Bond, the 1318 sq. km. national park is the one of finest examples of wildlife in India. Your best chance to spot the wild cat!

Tawang
This quaint little town in Arunachal Pradesh is devoid of fancy attractions you'd find in other popular hill stations. Ideal for the idle vacationer to chill!

Shillong
The capital of Meghalaya is also one of the most picturesque and modern hill towns set along the Northeastern Himalayas. Vintage / Overhauled cars and waterfalls are a rage here.

Coonoor
Smaller, quieter and cheaper than Ooty, Coonoor in Tamil Nadu is for the lazy traveler who prefers solitude over melange or a lengthy novel over a rough trek. No place to rush.

Darjeeling
The real "Queen of the Hills" in West Bengal is also home to the Daarjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Daarjeeling is every bit the quintessential summer getaway.

Lakshadweep
India's answer to the Bahamas, Lakshadweep is an archipelago of tropical islands in the lower Arabian Sea. Be a true castaway when here in seclusion, with all the luxuries, of course.

Rishikesh
White water rafting at grade 5 rapids? Or some soul curry in a Spa, Ayurveda and Yoga Ashram Himalayas? Maybe both! Choose whichever, you're still coming to Rishikesh!

Kalimpong
This brilliant natural establishment in West Bengal is within sight of the great Khangchendzonga Mountain, and comes loaded with Buddhist and colonial influences in its culture.