Author: Joynel Vaz

Rajasthan is known for its rich cultural heritage, royal history, and artistic and musical styles that are respected and sought after all over the world. The ‘Land of the Kings’ holds more forts (45 in total) in the state, than anywhere else in the country. It is also home to the largest desert in the country — the Thar Desert. If you are planning a visit to Rajasthan, be ready for a smorgasbord of color, flavor, music, and legends. Carry your camera with you, because this state offers the most unique visual treats.

Best time to go

Visiting Rajasthan is enthralling throughout the year, but if you want bearable weather conditions, October to March are the ideal travel months. And if you can bear the sweltering heat between April and June, you might just catch tigers on your wildlife safari.

Explore More: Find the Optimal Timing for an India Trip

Where to Stay

Rajasthan is home to some of the most lavish palaces that boast India’s rich cultural history. Luckily for us, some of these palaces have now been converted into luxury hotels, so you can live like royalty! Of course, there are more budget options as well. There are homestays, and AIRBNBs all over, as Rajasthan is well connected and very hospitable for tourists.

Pamper Yourself at India’s Luxury Hotels

How to get there

By Air

Jaipur International Airport is the main airport in Rajasthan, and the quickest way to reach this beautiful state. Udaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Phalodi and Suratgarh  also have their own airports and are accessible by domestic flights.

By Rail

The Indian Railway Network runs through Rajasthan extensively, with major stations in Jodhpur, Jaipur, Bikaner, Udaipur and Ajmer. The popular choice of trains to catch to and from Rajasthan are Shatabdi and Rajdhani.

By Road

Rajasthan is well-connected by road, with about 20 national highways in all directions. To drive to Rajasthan, you want to take the NH8. This national highway is connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Vadodara, among others.

Places to Visit

Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

Considered the main attraction of Jaipur, Hawa Mahal means ‘Palace of the Winds’. This 5-storey palace was built by Kacchi Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, taking inspiration from Jhunjhuna’s Khetri Mahal. Built in 1799, this gorgeous structure has 953 ‘jharokas’ or intricately designed windows, and countless miniatures and ceremonial armours on display. The purpose of this palace was for Rajput women, who were not allowed to be visible in public, to watch the world outside, city hustle and royal processions from a safe and invisible distance.

City Palace, Udaipur

The largest royal complex in Rajasthan, the City Palace is situated on the banks of Lake Pichola. It was built in 1559 by Maharana Uday Singh, and it became the home of the royal maharanas, as well as the administrative centre of the kingdom. This magnificent structure has architectural influences from China, Europe, and medieval India. The domes, arches, towers, and colourful paintings, offer an insight into the cultural and religious influences prevalent at the time. There’s even a museum, with some great specimens of Rajput art and culture on display.

Related Article: Best Places to Visit in Rajasthan

Royal Vintage Car Museum, Udaipur

If you are someone who is into automotive history, then you have got to visit the Royal Vintage Car Museum in Udaipur. Here, on display, you’ll see the best of the royal fleet, the finest automobiles of the 20th century, in absolutely mint condition. The museum is owned and maintained to this day by the royal family, and is home to some of the rarest vintage cars in the world, including the 1934 Rolls Royce Phantom, which was used in the 1983 James Bond classic film Octopussy.

 Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur 

The Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur is one of the most magnificent and stunning forts of Rajasthan. Built by Rao Jodha in 1459, it spans 5 km and sits atop a hill, at the outer edges of Jodhpur city. The seven gates that surround the fort were built by different rulers to commemorate the victory over Bikaner and Jaipur. The walls are steeped in Rajput history and culture.

Once you are at the fort, you can get a city-wide panoramic view, which looks like a sea of brilliant blue. The main attractions in the fort complex that you can visit include Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheeh Mahal and Takht Vilas, among others. There are also some temples that revere the local goddesses and deities.

Sam Sand Dunes, Jaisalmer

If you’re into more outdoor activities, and want to get a feel of the great Thar desert, then head over to Sam Sand Dunes in Jaisalmer. 

Take a tour of the dunes atop a decorated camel, or rent a quad bike and go dune-bashing! There is plant and animal life to explore, too, for wildlife enthusiasts, and great landscape shots for the shutterbug travellers. There are desert campsites and group desert safaris that will take through the dunes, and also include musical performances, dances, puppet shows, and delicious local Rajasthani cuisine.

Brahma Temple, Pushkar

So when it comes to Hindu mythology, there is a sort of holy trinity of the main deities: Brahma (The Creator), Vishnu (The Preserver), and Shive or Maheshwara (The Destroyer). Legend has it that Brahma was cursed by Shiva, for cheating on a challenge, to never have more than one or two temple in his honor throughout the world. And one such temple is located in Pushkar. It dates back to the 14th century, and is made of beautiful marble and stone. It is adorned with silver coins, and the architecture of the temple boasts a motif of a hans (swan).

Keep in Mind

Keep a few things in mind when travelling to Rajasthan:

• Stay in or near the city
• Have your driver’s contact details and vehicle handy
• Keep a list of your luggage
• Have a printed itinerary and hotel booking ready
• Wear modest clothing
• Keep about three hours to spare before your flights to account for traffic

Visiting Rajasthan offers gems of experiences and memories, with vibrantly colored cities, culturally rich monuments, gorgeous landscapes and deep history. It’s no wonder that Rajasthan is often considered a jewel in India’s crown.

Kashmir has been synonymous with snowy-white mountains, gorgeous valleys, pristine lakes and some otherworldly magic in the air. Whether it’s the scenic route or the cultural side of things that interest you, Kashmir has a lot to offer. So if travelling to Kashmir has been on your bucket list of places to visit in India, then rest assured we can guide you through the journey.

Best Time to Visit

If you’re travelling to Kashmir for all the touristy reasons, hoping to see carpets of flowers blooming in lush greenery, then you want to book your tickets between March and October. The Tulip Festival in April is definitely a sight worth making the trip for. The weather’s pleasant and enjoyable. But also, keep in mind, it being tourist season, it can get a bit crowded. The good news is that from November to February, Kashmir is still very much open for travellers. Places like Gulmarg are ideal for winter vacationers. It gets much colder, of course, so you’ll want to bundle up in a few layers and be ready for lots of snow!

Discover More: Understand the Optimal Season for India Sightseeing

Where to begin

Srinagar is usually the best place to connect to from other parts of the country or world. It houses the very famous Dal Lake, known for pristine views and enjoyable rides on shikharas (boats). Also, Srinagar Airport is the best way to enter Kashmir, as it also receives international flights. Keep in mind that there are COVID-guidelines that have to be followed before and after you land in Kashmir, so do your research and prepare in advance.

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Transport

Depending on how you’ve charted out your itinerary, there are several ways to get in and around Kashmir. There’s the Indian Railway, that’ll help you cover larger distances. But if it’s a group tour you’re subscribing to, then there are tour buses and luxury coaches you can hop onto. These take you to all the popular spots, with a guide who’ll give you an animated account of the history of the place.

If you’re interested in a more private experience, just hire a tourist taxi (often available online) and give the drivers a list of places you’d like to visit at your own pace. And finally, if you just want to zip through the local areas, from a market to a monument or just back home after a long hike, then you have to try the auto-rickshaws.

Different things for different travellers

Kashmir has a lot to offer, from mountain peaks to luxury hotels. If you’re looking for the romance of the snow-clad sleepy towns, or perhaps a cultural event that’ll be a treat for the senses, it’s likely you’ll find it here in Kashmir. Daredevils can brave the steep trek to Kolahoi Glacier, while the museum and architecture lovers can marvel at the Hazratbal Mosque. And if you’re a foodie, delight yourself with ‘rogan josh’ or ‘yakhni pulao’, So when you’re travelling to Kashmir you can rest assured that there is something for every kind of traveller.

Read on: Explore the Pleasures of Things to do in India

Keep in mind

Some tips that’ll make your travel plans to Kashmir all the more enjoyable are:

1. Check for hotels or accommodations options that have heating in the rooms. You’re going to need it, especially if you’re travelling to Kashmir in the winter months.
2. Wear modest clothing, as the communities, there are mostly conservative. In any case, you’ll need a wrap or jacket to keep warm.
3. Carry some basic medication along to aid in digestion, in case this is your first time eating Indian food. 
4. Book transport options in advance to avoid being stranded unexpectedly at any place, especially if you’re travelling solo.

Kashmir is a mystical paradise that leaves an indelible mark on anyone who visits. Now it’s your turn to experience the magnificence of this beautiful state!

Often dubbed as “Little Tibet”, Spiti Valley is a stunningly beautiful region in Himachal Pradesh. There is divinity in every crevice, turn and corner, and if you seek serene calmness, nestled in the lap of nature, Spiti Valley is the ideal destination for you.

When to go

If you are someone who likes to go on group tours and visit the famous hotspots of any tourist destination, then visit Spiti Valley in the Winter. The months of October till February will have throngs of visitors and tour groups that enjoy the frosted lakes and snowy white landscapes of Spiti. But if you prefer lesser crowds and travelling solo, then plan your trip to Spiti Valley between July and September, during the summer. The pleasant weather is a bonus! If you want to be adventurous, try the monsoon months from July to September. You can smell the wet, forested mountains in the air while basking under the golden sun.

Learn More: Explore the Ideal Timing for Your India Getaway

Where to go

Some of the top spots for Spiti Valley include:

• Tabo Monastery: One of the oldest Buddhist monasteries to have stood the test of time, intact and regal, Tabo Monastery is considered the crown jewel of Spiti Valley. With nine temples, several stupas and cave shrines, the monastery is well-maintained and protected, to keep the Tibetan Buddhism tradition alive.
• Chandratal Lake: Also known as Tso Chikgma (meaning ‘lake of the moon’), Chandratall Lake is one of the highest lakes of India, at a lofty elevation of 4250m. This surreal and pristine water body lies still and barren, making for stunning photography.
• Komik Village: The highest village in Asia, and one of the highest in the world, Komik or Komic village stands at an impressive 4587m. It is reachable by a motorable road. It is definitely worth a visit, via Hikkim (which is the highest village with a post office), for the peace and quiet.
• Lhalung: At the foothills of the Tangmar Mountains lies one of the oldest gompas in Spiti Valley. Travelling to Spiti, without visiting Lhalung would be a shame. It is said that the mountains change colour based on the ‘mood’ of the local deity.

Bara Shigri Glacier, one of the longest in the Himalayas lies in Spiti too.

Spiti valley caters to varying tastes & makes for an ideal getaway for travellers. If you’re a cultural enthusiast, a history buff, an adventure junkie or simply a starry-eyed nomad who wants to look at the surreal landscapes, Spiti is the place for you. It can be explored in a week or two, at leisure. Also, geology buffs might be amazed to know that Spiti was under the Tethys Sea millions of years ago.

The Spiti river gives you company for a major part of the road journey. Spiti is all about abundant clean mountain air, freshly grown food and nature in all its glory.  The locals take pride in being self-sufficient. Nobody knows of, or uses, pesticides. ‘Organic’ is the only way food is grown here. Although different seasons mean varied colours of nature, the best time to visit Spiti Valley is believed to be the months of July-August.

How to get around

There are different entryways into Spiti. So if you are planning your trip to Spiti Valley, decide which way you want to go. Delhi would be the starting point from which you can opt for different ways to reach Spiti.

Delhi – Manali – Spiti: Take a flight, train, bus or car to Manali from Delhi, depending on your budget. Once in Manali, you can travel by road to Spiti, via Rohtang Pass. Turn right at Gramphu and then cross over to Kunzum La. This is the less travelled route, although shorter in travel duration, because of the quick ascent to 4000m. Unseasoned travellers may suffer from Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Delhi – Shimla – Kinnaur – Spiti: If you want to take it slow, and get acclimated steadily as you make your way up to Spiti, opt for the longer route. Travel from Delhi to Shimla by road or rail, covering a comfortable 345km distance. Then take the NH 22 (also known as the old Hindustan-Tibet Road), and drive through Narkanda, Rampur, Wangtoo and Karchham. The NH22 takes you directly to Nako via Kinnaur, and you should reach Spiti via Sumdo. Expect some delays on the road and plan ahead. 

If you’re worried about travelling in and around Spiti, you can rely on the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses or even use shared taxis. If you’re feeling brave, then hitch-hiking is an option, too, for solo travellers and locals are only too happy to help.

Keep in mind

Limited Accommodation: There are limited accommodation options in Spiti Valley, so if you are looking for a hotel experience you’ll have to rethink your travel plans or try bigger neighbouring towns like Kaza or Tabo. There are homestays near all the tourist spots and in the villages in Spiti, however, which are very comfortable.

Phone Networks: The network with the best coverage is BSNL.

Stock up on Petrol: Except for Kaza, you won’t find any petrol pumps in Spiti. 

Bundle Up: With minimal temperatures even during summer months, at over 4000m altitudes, expect sudden weather changes and snowfall.

Prep for AMS: Altitude Mountain Sickness occurs above 3000m. You may experience breathlessness and nausea. Drink plenty of fluids and slowly acclimate yourself to increasing altitudes, about 400m at a time.

Travelling to Spiti Valley may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but to the seeker of meditative silence and hypnotic natural beauty, it is a haven.

With a wide array of experiences to offer, Jammu and Kashmir enthral every visitor. If this is your first trip to Jammu and Kashmir, read on and include these places in your itinerary!

1. Srinagar

If you’re thinking ‘Srinagar’, you’re definitely thinking of the Shikara ride on Dal Lake. Shikaras are kitschy thin long boats, designed with vibrant colours and adorned with cosy carpets and pillows. The boatmen tending to the boats often break into song, when they are all together. Opt for a ride in the evening, and marvel at the calm and cool Dal Lake, glistening under the sunset.

Srinagar also boasts the largest tulip garden in the continent, with gorgeous blossoms in every colour, proudly on display between March and April. Then there is the Hazratbal Shrine, with its delicate white architecture and peaceful atmosphere, located along the shore of Dal Lake. Dress modestly (covered from head to toe) or you won’t be granted entry!

2. Pahalgam

The celebrated jewel of Liddar Valley, Pahalgam dazzles from the Himalayas, with her stunning landscapes and natural beauty. Ideal for backpackers, hikers and trekkers, and fishing enthusiasts, Pahalgam offers many trails and fishing spots. It is also the base for those going on their annual pilgrimage to Amarnath, a Hindu shrine located in an icy cave. Don’t forget to also check out the Overa Aru Wildlife Sanctuary, where you’ll spot brown bears and musk deer. For photographers, there are opportunities in every direction, whether it’s the Lidder River in the northeast, running through Betaab Valley, or frozen Tullian Lake in the southeast, surrounded by mountain peaks.

3. Leh/ Leh Palace

Special mention has to be made of Leh Palace, sitting atop Tsemo Hill. Made of stones, wood, sand and mud, this 9-storied structure still holds some of the best architectural creations of its time. You can see some artistic ruins on display and get an idea of the grandeur with which the royal families of yore lived.

4. Gulmarg

Why spend money travelling to the Swiss Alps, when you can enjoy the blanket of powdery-white snow in your own backyard? Gulmarg stays enveloped in snow during the winter season, but also boasts lush green meadows between April and early May. Enjoy the splendour of daisies and buttercups, large fir trees bordering crystal clear blue lakes. If there were ever a picture postcard, it would be Gulmarg.

5. Katra and Vaishnodevi

The Katra region in Jammu and Kashmir is famed for the Vaishnodevi Temple. Paying homage to the Hindu goddess Vaishnodevi, this highly revered shrine is frequented by throngs of devotees every year, come rain or shine. It is said that on average, the Vaishnodevi Temple gets as many as over a crore pilgrims and visitors. It sits in a cave in the Trikuta mountain, at an altitude of 5200ft. Whether you are a pilgrim or a trekking enthusiast, be ready for about 12 km of solid leg work from the base camp in Katra.

6. Jammu

The Jammu region is home to temples, palaces, forts and ziyarats (places of Islamic worship and reverence). While one would associate Jammu with only temples, you’d be surprised to know its diverse places of divine presence. And the locals offer homage and respect to all the deities, irrespective of religion. Bahu Mata is considered the primary Hindu deity in Jammu and devotees worship the shrine piously, but locals also seek protection from the dargah of Peer Budhan Ali Shah. It is this coexistence of faiths that makes Jammu shine and worth a visit for the spiritual seeker.

7. Sonmarg

Looking for a Winter Wonderland? You have arrived. Sonmarg is the ideal tourist destination for travellers seeking snow-capped mountains, frosty lakes, powdery-white snow-clad trees and houses. If you are interested in trekking to Ladakh Sonmarg offers the ideal base camp. In fact, there is more than one trekking route for the adventurer in you, via the pristine lakes of Krishnasar, Gadsar, Vishansar and the like. Learning how to ski? Sonmarg has skiing and sledging activities, workshops and points.

8. Khardung La

Khardung La Pass is said to have one of the most elevated motorable roads in the world. If you’re an avid biker, this stop is definitely for you. Grab a seat on the trusty Royal Enfield and ride up the Pass to experience the rugged beauty of the mountains and vast expanses, and ride on to enter the Nubra and Shyok Valleys.

9. Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley can best be described as a sightseeing paradise. With its incredibly beautiful vistas, orchards, Bactrian camels and monasteries, one feels transported into another universe amidst a cold mountain range. Originally called Ldumra (meaning ‘valley of flowers), Nubra Valley is a Shangri-La for nature lovers. Go for a camel ride across the white sandy desert, or view the confluence of the Shyak and Siachen rivers. But certainly meet the locals, who are more than hospitable and full of stories.

10. Magnetic Hill

Looking for a more scientifically profound trip to Jammu and Kashmir? Then you have got to go to Magnetic Hill. As the name suggests, this hill has extraordinary magnetic properties that could get your car moving uphill if it’s parked in neutral, within the magnetic field. This eerie space is definitely a puzzle for many and is avoided by airplanes by several feet. Definitely worth a visit, if you are feeling the pull!

11. Hemis National Park

If you are a wildlife enthusiast, then you definitely have to visit the snow leopard capital of India – the Hemis National Park. Officially the only national park in the northern regions of the Himalayas, the Hemis National Park is named after the 400-year-old Buddhist monastery called Hemis Gompa. While you’re there, you can even visit the monastery, or go bird-watching, trek up to Gotsang Gunpa or go for a wildlife safari!

How to get there

Travelling to Jammu and Kashmir is fairly easy, given that it is well-connected by road, rail and air. 

By Air: You can travel to Srinagar domestic airport (Sheikh-ul-Alam Airport) from any part of India on all major airlines.

By Rail: Jammu Tawi is the nearest railway station.

By Road: The Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transportation Corporation (JKSRTC) has regularly running bus services throughout Jammu and Kashmir and is a handy way to travel by road. But if you would like more privacy and flexibility in timings, then you can hire a private taxi.

Keep in mind

Some packing tips:

• Carry heavy woollies and scarves, especially for winter vacations.
• Wear sturdy walking or hiking shoes if you plan to do outdoor activities.
• Don’t forget to get a medical kit along with any prescriptions you might need.
• You’ll need an umbrella if you’re travelling to Jammu and Kashmir in December.

Travelling to Jammu and Kashmir is an overwhelming experience, as its beauty keeps calling you back for more. With its stunning views, deeply rich historical background and warm hospitality, this is definitely not a one-time affair.

Dive Deeper: Discovering North India’s Top Attractions

A trip to Spiti Valley is unforgettable. If you’re wondering about how to reach Spiti Valley, while making travel plans, then look no further. Here are some useful guidelines that will help you make your plans.

How to reach Spiti Valley:

By Air: The closest airport would be in Kullu. So you can fly to Kullu from any major city in India. Hiring a taxi from the airport is easy, and can take you directly to Spiti.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is Shimla. The great thing is there are bus and taxi services to and from Spiti running regularly at the station itself, so you can hop on right away.

By Bus: The Himachal Road Transport Corporation has buses that ply regularly all over Spiti Valley. This is the best way to get around if you want to rely on public transport.

By Car: Spiti Valley can be accessed only by road since there are no airports or stations there. The roads are open pretty much all year round. There are two routes you can take to get into Spiti via road. The first is from Manali (which you can reach by flight from Delhi). If you hire a car from Manali, you’ll head towards Spiti Valley via the Rohtang Pass. Take a right at Gramphu and cross over to Kunzum La. While this is the shorter route, it’s not the best-recommended one as the quick ascend up 4000m can cause Altitude Mountain Sickness (ALM). It’s better if you take the longer route from Shimla. You can take the NH 22 from Shimla, and pass through Narkanda, Rampur, Wangdu and Karchham, with small breaks along the way to acclimate yourself. This road takes you straight to Nako via Kinnaur and you’ll enter Spiti Valley from Sumdo. The routes are open at different times of the year so plan ahead.

Things to do there

A trip to Spiti Valley is like no other. With powdery-white snow-covered mountains in the winter session, frozen lakes and waterfalls, the crispy chill in the air, Spiti Valley is an ideal tourist destination for travellers who enjoy winter holidays and activities. Whether it’s trekking in the snow, trying to climb a frozen waterfall, going on a photography jaunt in the valley or tracking down a snow leopard, you’ll find there is something for everyone. Since there aren’t too many people that live here, you won’t find it crowded and can vacation in peace.

Duration of winter: Winters in Spiti extend for 5 months i.e. from October to February.

Average Temperature: The average temperatures range between 0°C in the day to around -40°C at night.

Keep in mind

• Pack clothes so that you can wear layers. You’ll need a good pair of walking shoes and a hat. 
• The Winter months are October to February.
• Spiti Valley is ideal for solo travellers because the locals are very hospitable.
• Be ready for a rough-and-tough travel experience. 
• You may require permits depending on which way you are entering Spiti Valley when travelling by road.
• Stock up on cash, because there aren’t many working ATMs in Spiti.
• Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned traveller, you’ll need time to acclimate yourself to the altitude of Spiti Valley. Don’t take it lightly. 
• ALM symptoms include breathlessness and nausea.

  

Now that you have all the necessary details to plan your trip to Spiti Valley, you can plan your itinerary accordingly. Spiti Valley is definitely something you must add to your travel bucket list if you seek untravelled paths, natural beauty at its best and the solitude of the uncrowded, undisturbed mountain range.