Things You Need to Know Before Traveling to Chennai

Nestled on the Bay of Bengal is the Chennai city flourishing with rich history, culture and heritage. A city to discover a wide gamut of temples showcasing incredible architecture and aesthetic beauty, Chennai is just more than that. Besides rich culture and heritage, visitors are likely to stumble upon the awe-inspiring colonial buildings and pristine beaches. Previously called as Madras, this beautiful city, which is also the capital of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, is the heart of arts and culture.

Those looking up to spend a weeklong vacation in this beautiful city should not miss out this important piece of information.

Mahabalipuram Is Not in Chennai:

Most travelers do not do their homework before heading to a particular place. And this has been noticed many times that travelers to Chennai believe Mamallapuram, which is popularly known as Mahabalipuram, is located in the city. No, that’s not true. This popular tourist spot, which is famed for awe-striking ancient temples (mostly rock-cut that show pioneering architecture of the 2^nd century Pallavas dynasty) and quiet beaches, is around 60 kilometers south from Chennai along the Coromandel Coast.

Chennai Houses Second Longest Natural Urban Beach on Earth:

If you have not been to a natural urban beach, there you go. Chennai is home to the second longest natural urban beach in the world and first in India. Don’t you feel so lucky? Along the Bay of Bengal and part of Indian Ocean, Marina Beach runs from the stunning Fort St. George to Besant Nagar, covering an impressive 13 kilometers. These days, the beach is thronged by locals and visitors alike on weekends. Amongst other prominent beaches where beach enthusiasts can spend their maximum time are Covelong Beach and Elliot’s Beach. Elliot’s Beach is better known for its quieter ambiance.

Basilica of St. Thomas:

This 16^th century structure built by Portuguese explorers is a major attraction. It is regarded as one of the three churches to have built over the tomb of St. Thomas, one of the Jesus Apostles. The Basilica carries paintings and artifacts that display his life.

Kapaleeswarar Temple for Lord Shiva Devotees:

As your eyes set on this architectural wonder, it will delight you with its magnificently sculpted towers or gopurams. Yes, these are the first things you would notice instant. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The best way to get around Chennai and pay a visit to this architectural marvel is to choose South India tours.

India Travel – 8 Incredibly Beautiful Places, yet Not Easily Accessible

A beautiful country with innumerable beautiful places, beautiful people and beautiful weather – India attracts millions of visitors every year who want to know its history, get accustomed to its culture and explore things that are hidden. Here, you will marvel the magnificent Taj Mahal, take a relaxing boat ride in the tranquil backwaters, or just prefer a stroll along the beach promenade in Goa; you are never going to run short of activities.

If you consider these too plain to spend a holiday in India and want something exciting, this blog will challenge you to access the following incredible places.

Phugtal Monastery:

Built into the cliffsides like a honeycomb, the monastery or gompa in south-eastern Zanskar, Ladakh is for the adventurers. Even if you manage to conquer the height, the challenges are not over. Limited food options will compel you to think twice.

Dras:

Dras, termed as the Gateway to Ladakh, is the second coldest inhabitable region on earth. It is a high military area. If you be lucky enough to escape the gun shut, the subnormal body temperature gives you another reason to think again.

Hemis National Park:

Another gem in Ladakh that is pretty hard to access is Hemis National Park. It is known for awesome wildlife and extreme weather. Besides what adds to your ordeal is the rough terrain.

Thar Desert:

Absolutely stunning! But be careful of the presence of Black Cobra, Rat Snake, wild cats, Saw Scaled Viper and Sand Boa. The dry conditions of Thar Desert make it difficult for travel.

Kuldhara:

Once an active village, Kuldhara is now a forlorn place, lies as a ghost town. Remains uninfluenced by the modern day impact Kuldhara certainly makes a important tourist destination on your trip to Rajasthan.

Silent Valley National Park:

Enough of North India, let’s head to the southern part and check out Silent Valley National Park. It is a verdant tropical forest endowed with unspoiled natural beauty. Tourist influx has declined due to a Maoist attack. Select ideal South India tour packages and indulge yourself in the tropical beauty of the national park.

Chambal River Basin:

A legendary river, Chambal River is often finds a mention in prehistoric scriptures. It has been portrayed in many Bollywood flicks. Its supreme beauty and mesmerizing surroundings bemuse travelers all around the world. The only threat that prevails is falling prey to goons or regional dacoits.

How to Travel Light If Visiting India?

You are now ready to travel to India. You don’t want to miss any of your important travel assets. Oh, your bag looks heavy. How can you carry such a heavy bag and travel across India, walk past its bustling markets, streets and sidewalks? No, no, it seems to be pretty messy. You need to think again before packing your stuff. As you travel light, there is possibility of exploring and covering more destinations or just purchasing unique stuff and bring them back to your country.

Here’s how you can travel light if you are planning a holiday in India.

·         Firstly, pick a not-so-big bag. A duffel bag does not give you ample space. So, you have now limited space to put in only important items.

·         If your India tour involves a lot of outdoor activities, go for a pair of durable shoes. Make sure they are light. Also, pack flip-flops for the bathroom use.

·         Same attention is also given while packing clothes. Clothes should be packed according to the season. Again, light weight dresses. Don’t just follow what others have been following for years when it comes to packing your clothes. Get a bundle wrap. It will help creating more space for other essentials. You should not fold and stack them one atop another. Consider taking extra clothes if you holiday activities hover around the Himalayan ranges. Long sleeved T shirt, trekking boots, coats, boots and sweaters are a must pick.

·         You are a serious photographer and you cannot take the risk of leaving your professional camera. Well, carrying a camera won’t make you feel heavy. DSLR or Semi-DSLR cameras come with all a camera bag so that you can carry camera accessories like battery, charger, extra memory card if you need and the likes. Why would you need to carry a big camera when a digital camera can do the wonders? Digital camera is pretty light when you trek or go hiking.

Even if you want to carry other stuff and still want to travel light, then you should consider seeking help of tour and travel operators. Tours and travels from USA are a great option and advantage. Plan your trip right from your own country, come and explore India’s width and breadth and return with many unforgettable memories and items that you cannot acquire in the USA.

Top 5 India Tours

There is nothing like India. Often termed subcontinent, India charms its visitors with its diverse culture, languages, beliefs, food, festivals and traditions. It is one of the topnotch tourist destinations in the world even for the most discerning globe trotters. Travelers coming from various corners to experience real India should stick to the best India tours that not only allow you to explore the notable destinations, but also give you the best hospitality. Below are mentioned some of the superlative India tours that might fascinate you the most.

Golden Triangle Tours:

The most notable amongst all tours in India is Golden Triangle. The tour circuit connects three important cities, Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Travelers will have deeper insight into India’s modern lifestyle, history, culture and what not. Major monuments like Taj, Humayun’s Tomb, Jama Mosque and Red Fort are worth visiting. The tour duration varies. Choose according to your time flexibility. Golden Triangle Tour packages are offered by numerous leading tour operators in the country. Choose wisely.

Wildlife Tours:

India is home to some of the rarest animals on this planet. Its national park, sanctuaries, reserves, forests and jungles are well inhabited by tigers, deer, elephants, wild pigs and gaur. Venturing a tour to Ranthambore National Park will bestow you an opportunity to spot some of the above mentioned wild creatures. For budding wildlife photographers, India is paradise.

Beaches Tours:

The beaches – yes, India is also a beach paradise. You get to find the finest beaches on the western shore. Don’t forget that India is surrounded by seas in three sides, making it one of the largest peninsulas in the world. Marina Beach in Chennai is the longest natural beach in the country; second in the world.

Backwaters Tours:

So, you are a backwaters fan? Go straight to God’s Own Country and enjoy cruises on the tranquil backwaters and see real Kerala. The Kerala Backwaters network is comprised a chain of brackish lagoons, canals and beautiful lakes both natural and man-made. Choose the right Kerala backwater tour packages for your family.

Gourmet Tours:

Are you ready for a fresh adventure of gourmet tours? Give your taste buds a new way to pamper and indulge in a never-ending culinary tour. Indian cuisines are just excellent if you know how to eat like locals. While the five-star hotels serve the most stylish and sophisticatedly, the authentic roadside dishes are simply awesome – try both styles to have different experiences.

Here Is Why You Should Look Up at These Rajasthan Tour Packages

The maddening crowd of the bustling markets, the serenity of Lake Pichola, the luxury of palaces turned hotels, the fascination of the imposing forts and the never-ending golden sand of Thar deserts –visit Rajasthan and get ready to be mesmerized. Speaking honestly, it is really hard to explore India’s largest state unless you have chosen the best Rajasthan tour packages. Whether it is a week long holiday or a fortnight trip to India, catch hold of the following tour packages and create some incredible India moments.

Romantic Rajasthan Tour:

Break the norm and plan a Rajasthan tour for your once in a lifetime honeymoon. Newly married couples find places like Jodhpur, Mount Abu, Jaipur, Bikaner, Udaipur and Jaisalmer very romantic since these destinations have romantic ambiance in the air. On the contrary, Rajasthan is not a regular romantic destination that brags off majestic snowcapped mountains and exotic beaches. But it can offer infinite golden sand and unique royal experience. Besides that you will have an opportunity to see the real rustic India by visiting Rajasthan’s quaint countryside.

Maharaja Tour Rajasthan:

An incredible Rajasthan tour will take you to the majestic cities and beautiful tourist places of the desert state. Choosing this Rajasthan tour package will help you explore the splendid forts, grand castles and magnificent palaces of Jodhpur, Jaipur, etc. A visit to the Pink City will unfold you the glorious stories of the brave Rajputs.

Rajasthan Wildlife Tour:

Besides majestic palaces and castles, the culture rich state is teeming with exotic wildlife and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Ranthambore National Park is a must mention when you want adventure, thrill and a perfect interaction trip with the wildlife. The national park is blissfully blessed with trees, plants, mammals, reptiles and birds. Spotting a Bengal tiger is everyone’s wish list. Sariska National Park and Keolado Ghana are two other prominent national parks in the state.

Rajasthan cultural Tour:

Choose an ideal and most suitable Rajasthan tour package when you are seeking a cultural tour of the state. The desert state exudes a perfect combination of aesthetic architecture and colorful and diverse landscape. A cultural tour will bestow you an opportunity of traversing the major cities of the state, immerse in its lavish treats and cultural feasts and witness its glorious past. Also, be a great admirer of the friendly locals and their warm hospitality.

Accommodations That Give Visitors Different Perspective about India

A country that was home to the kings and maharajas flaunts some of the lavish accommodations in the forms of palaces and hotels. Travelers planning a trip to India need not be worried about staying either on streets or on trees. The country has some of the sumptuous hotels at your disposal. This time when you are in this amazing country why not try something what your friends have never done?

Umaid Bhawan Palace:

Expecting royal treat is something many would desire. If you dream the same way, ensure to check-in at the Umaid Bhawan Palace. The palace promises unmatched luxury with some amazing modern day facilities. The rooms are designed sophisticatedly. Even today the palace serves the royal family. It was previously called as Chittar Palace. It is located in Jodhpur.

Fort Chanwa Luni:

While in Jodhpur do stay at Chanwa Luni Fort. Not just stay and enjoy the hospitality, but adulate the beautiful panoramic roof tops, complex, towers, passages and vast courtyards. Staying here will entitle you enriching experience. For travelers looking to stay away from the maddening world, Fort Chanwa Luni is recommened.

Rambagh Palace:

It seems that Rajasthan is not letting you stay in cramped places. Rambagh Palace in Jaipur is superbly embedded with exquisite artworks, modern furnishings, impeccable interiors and rich design. It was converted into a lavish hotel in 1957.

Fort Barli:

What more you can ask for than seer luxury and a true Maharaja feel. Converted into a hotel, Fort Barli offer out of the world experience. While the interior is awe-striking, the surrounding is equally enthralling. It is located close to Ajmer and there is no better place to experience perfect Indian gastronomy. With royal vibe, the fort turned hotel also offer wildlife sight.

Taj Lake Palace:

Boost your love life at Taj Lake Palace. The hotel is set amid Lake Pichola and charms guests with royal feel, superb hospitality, wonderful ambiance, sculpted marble columns, fretwork screens and embellished gilt moldings.

Oberoi Udaivillas:

When the talk is about Oberoi, it simply does not need an introduction. It is the brand that speaks everything. The moment you step inside, the royal feeling starts. The rooms are decorative. They are spacious with impressive balconies.

Get hold of Rajasthan tour packages so that you and your family not only stay in luxury, but also travel in style.

What No One Tells You about India

The starveling for relax, relief and calmness curve you up to travelling. While seeking such a destination that not only soothes your soul, but also pours a thousand reasons to travel to, it would certainly be the diverse land of India. The vibrant country offers different aspects of its personality - unusual, overweening, dignified and eclectic to its travelers. You can expect the unexpected here. You can find yourself up close and personal with such speechless moments that have the power or strength to alter the way you view the world and your place in it.

The sole stirring sight can lift you up to sky high. The constant exploration heats you up for more. India has all the travel ingredients, charm and grader that can make one deeply addictive. Confronting various scenery, cuisine and customs can fill your heart with joy and excitement, even lead you to crave for more. Travelers get mesmerized by India’s mystic beauty. You can capture the extraordinarily great moments of your life. What you all get here is unworldly peace, enchanted visuals of the beautiful and gentle gestures. This is all the part of India ride.

Personal experience is must than to just explore on browser. So let's come and have a look to such wonderful destinations like Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Mumbai, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Ranthambore, Kumarakom, Varanasi, Kerala, Goa, Tamil Nadu, Cochin and Rajasthan.

Delhi isn’t just a city, but a multitude.

Jaipur, the sensational 'Pink City'.

Agra, a majestic architectural city.

Mumbai, a place where dreams come true.

Jodhpur, the mystical 'Blue City'.

Udaipur, a mud cap of beauty.

Ranthambore, a great sight of tigers.

Kumarakom, cluster of tiny islands.

Varanasi, a city of temples.

Kerala, paradise of India.

Goa, a clump of beaches.

Tamil Nadu, wisdom of patience.

Cochin, the mainland of Kerala.

Rajasthan, the city of heritage and traditions.

Each destination has its own beauty reflected by their culture, food, cuisine and various sights. Basically, these destinations are the account of all various aspects in India. They are the major ornaments that give pleasure to the senses of India. That all was just the myriad expressions of India's heritage and traditions. Execution can be excellent, only when planning is perfect. Now this is a chance, choose your suitable package for tours of India as per your will.

4 Must Pick Attractions in Chennai That Travelers Usually Avoid for Beaches

India’s fourth largest city and an international tourist hub, Chennai welcomes visitors with arms wide open. Not so bustling city that Chennai is, it never lets travelers down. The glorious colonial buildings, well connected roads, vibrant markets and an array of enthralling attractions catch the attention of world class tourists at once. The beaches really make an awe-inspiring sight. They are calm, quiet and serene with glittering water, soft sand and sun. Marina Beach is the highlight of the city with an impressive length of thirteen kilometers including a six-kilometer of beach promenade. It is the second longest stretch beach on earth

However, beaches are not all to see in Chennai. The city is just more than the pristine beaches. It has an exhaustive list must-pick places to see.

Madras Museum:

A true history buff cannot avoid Madras Museum. The second oldest museum in the country (after India Museum in Kolkata), madras Museum, also known as the Government Museum, is rich in numismatic and archaeological collections. The museum houses culture and human history. Explore the largest Roman antiquity collections. Take a walk along the massive Museum Theatre or sneak peek into the National Art Gallery located in the premises of the museum.

National Art Gallery:

Peep through the gallery and see the rare collections of Raja Ravi Varma, sandalwood sculptures and paintings from Deccan, Kangra, Rajasthan and Thanjavur regions. The gallery was built in 1906 in Indo-Saracenic style and is considered one of the oldest art galleries in the country. The spellbinding architectural works will bemuse any art and sculpture lover. The art gallery was designed with red stones brought from Andhra Pradesh. Though closed since 2002, visitors can have a glance at it from outside and immerge themselves in its aesthetic splendor.

Guindy National Park:

A tremendous way to keep toddlers completely entertained is to visit Guindy National Park. Accompany your kids on this trip to the national park where your little champs will not mind heading to Chennai Snake Park and Guindy Children’s Park. These two are a small part of Guindy National Park.

Kapaleeswarar Temple:

You are in Chennai and have not visited any temple to admire the excellent architecture. Kapaleeswarar Temple is situated in Mylapore. The temple is a bright example of exceptional Dravidian architecture. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. A tour of this beautiful temple will bestow you with images of perfect history and culture of India.

Book India tours from USA for a hassle free and enjoyable vacation with loved ones.

Five Compelling Things to Do in Kumarakom

Speaking honestly, Kerala needs no introduction as far as an Indian holiday destination is concerned. From tropical beaches to serene backwaters, from incredible tea plantations to Ayurveda, there is no dearth of things to see and do in Kerala. Kumarakom is a well-known holiday hotspot in the state, mainly famed for backwaters. Juxtaposed to Kottayam city, Kumarakom is set on the stunning background of the largest freshwater lake in Kerala, the Vembanad Lake.

Here are top five amazing things you will not mind taking a tour when travelling in Kumarakom.

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall:

Though small, Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall possesses magical beauty that would bemuse anyone and everyone. As you take a ride from Alleppey to Thekkady, the outstanding beauty of this magical waterfall will take your breath away. It is densely surrounded by lush greenery and the relaxing calm breeze definitely soothes your fickle mind. A wonderful picnic spot, the location of Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall is a must visit attraction for all budding photographers.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary:

Any wildlife and nature lover out there? Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is definitely calling you. As the name suggests, you should not just expect different varieties of bird species. There is more to just birds. Even if you are fascinated by the tiny creatures, start your journey as early as six in the morning. Besides birds, you will have the fortune of watching the calm backwaters and enjoy houseboat trips.

Kumarakom Beach:

Kumarakom Beach is one of the most sought after sightseeing in Kerala. The beach has earned a big name for being the most pristine in the state. It is very clean and brags off soft sand that is great for a romantic walk in the afternoon. Evenings are more beautiful.

Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple:

If myths are to be believed, Ettumanoor Mahadev Temple was the worship spot for the Pandavas. It is an eminent ancient Shiva Temple that has brought fame and glory to this beautiful place and often counted along with other important Shiva temples in the state including Vadakkunathan temple, Kaduthruthy Mahadeva Temple, Ernakulam Shiva Temple and Chengannur Mahadev Temple.

Kerala Backwaters:

Kerala backwaters are just awe-inspiring. With superb sightseeing and pristine beaches backwaters give visitors numerous reasons to visit Kerala. Opt out for a houseboat ride on the backwaters and explore the state in style. Choose the best South India tour packages and mark a memorable trip to Kumarakom.

Top 7 food destinations in Delhi at Night

Delhi, the capital of India, is a prominent tourist hotspot in the country. Though it never lets visitors sit idle in daytime, the nightlife fun is more vibrant and stunning. If you are planning a trip to the capital of India, ensure that you are not missing out the nightlife fun.

To feed up your stomach during late nights, the question arises - Where to go? Delhi has its major food destinations waiting to serve you the best.

Seven major food spots of Delhi are:

Moolchand Paranthe Walla, near Lajpat Nagar:

This is an all night open spot. Moolchand Paranthe Walla is famous for a wide variety of Paranthas. Have a cup of tea with some delicious paranthas.

Timings: Everyday, 24/7.

The Booty Call, Satya Niketan:

It offers the best junk food like pasta, burgers, sandwiches and many more.

Opening Hours: 9pm - 8am

Comesum, Nizamuddin Railway Station

It has two branches - one is at Nizammudin Station and the other is at Rajiv Metro Station. You will have mouth-watering, yet authentic Indian dishes. Comesum is a family restaurant with great illuminations and clean environment.

Timings: Everyday, 24/7.

Patel Chest Chai Walla, North Campus:

Feeling hungry? Treat yourself with the best eggs, noodles and tea. The eatery is known for its special night food. If you like street foods, this is a top pick.

Timings: open till 5am in the morning.

AIIMS Paranthe Walla:

You should visit AIIMS Paranthe Wala during winter nights. It serves the tasty Paranthas with pickle, salad and a tasteful cup of tea.

Timings: Everyday, 24/7.

Ganga Dhaba, JNU:

One of the safest places to eat at night is Ganga Dhaba at Jawaharlal Nehru University. The dhaba serves tasty samosa, paranthas, bread rolls and many more foods to tantalize your taste buds.

Timings: Everyday, 24/7.

Al Jawahar, near Jama Masjid, Old Delhi:

Are you roaming around Old Delhi? If so, you cannot stop yourself from having the best non-veg dishes. It is open for all day and night.

Timings: Everyday, 24/7.

Experience the Delhi night outs and its food spots with your friends. If you are alone, choose the best India tours and travels package and enjoy each and every moment of your journey. Further, let your friends in your country know what you have experienced and tempt them to plan a trip to India too.

Admiring Iconic Building of Jaipur - Hawa Mahal

Jaipur, Rajasthan's capital, is an enrapturing historical city and the portal to India's most vivacious state. The city's colorful, haywire streets puff up with a heady ferment of old and new. At the city's bosom, the palace of Hawa Mahal continues to homestead the former regal family.

The majestic 'Palace of The Winds’ or Hawa Mahal is one of the spectacular tourists attractions in Jaipur City. This incredible five-storey palace was established by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799. Sawai Pratap Singh's adherence to Lord Govinda is apparent in the palace's construction as it simulates the lord's crown.

Framework:

Hawa Mahal was built as a beehive palace with small windows, has a height of 50 feet from its fundament. It is further constructed of red and pink sandstones by Lal Chand Ustad, famous for its casements or Jharokas that capacitate free transmission of air in reach of the structure.

Its entryway is a door which leads you to a boundless courtyard environed by two-storey buildings on three elevations. Of the five-storey of the Mahal, the top three storeys have the  consistency of a single room while the lowermost storeys have courtyards.

The interior of the Mahal is stiff and plain with passages and pillars stretching to the top storey. The building does not have stairs to move up to the upper floors; the storeys are affiliated by slopes. From Hawa Mahal, you can have a complete view of the city.

Expounding:

Doorway to the Hawa Mahal is not from the head but from a side road to the backward end. It proves to be a striking one when seen early in the morning, lit with the golden light of sunrise. When the sunlight enters, the entire chamber inside the monument made up of glass work, fills with the spectrum of different colors. The top of the Hawa Mahal, offers you astounding views over Jantar Mantar and the City Palace.

Siredeori Bazaar, one of the colorful and popular markets in Jaipur, offers visitors the best jewelry of Rajasthan. You can also embrace the small museum, open from Saturday to Thursday with microcosm paintings and some rich artifacts, such as ceremonial armor, which help induce the royal.

Let's adore the beauty of this great mahal or palace and enjoy avidly by selecting the best Rajasthan tour packages offered by popular Rajasthan tour operators.

Can’t Miss These 5 Festivals in May

Summer in India is quite hot. If you think you can tolerate the heat, you will be entitled with a myriad of fascinating festivals to participate and enjoy. Let’s check out which festival of which region keeps you engaged and brings out the best festive mood in you. The following festivals are illustrated by date.

• Chithirai Festival:

This year the Chithirai Festival starts from 21^st April and ends on 4^th May. The Chithirai Festival is considered as one of the biggest festive carnivals in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The main attraction of the festival is the wedding of Goddess Meenakshi (sister of Lord Vishnu) with Lord Sundareswarar (Lord Shiva). If myths are to be believed, Almighty Vishnu came to eyewitness the sacred wedding, mounted on a dazzling golden horse.

• Buddha Purnima:

Budha Purnima, also known as Buddha Jayanti, is marked the birthday of Buddha. It is one of the most important and sacred festivals in Buddhism. All Buddha followers gather at various Buddhist sites across the country to celebrate this precious occasion by indulging in massive prayers, religious discourses and sermons, group meditation, worshipping the statue of Lord Buddha, processions and recitation of Buddhist scriptures. Come to Bodhgaya to have the best experience of this festival. In case you cannot make it, there is another place as important as Bodhgaya – Buddha jayanti Park in Delhi. The festival will be celebrated on 4^th May, 2015. Get advantage of Mahaparinirvan Express Buddhist Tourist Train that runs by Indian Railways for this occasion.

• Mt. Abu Summer Festival, Rajasthan:

Ballad singing accompanied by folk dancing, Mt. Abu Summer Festival opens up in style. A three-day festival witnesses a variety of sports activities such as roller skate and boat racing on the beautiful Nakki Lake. The main attraction of this carnival is a music show - the Sham-e-Qawwali that draws prominent gawwals from across India. On the last, there is a dazzling display of fireworks.

• Ooty Summer Festival:

It is a flower show, which takes place at the Botanical Gardens in Tamil Nadu. The surroundings come to life with various cultural events, trekking and boat racing. It starts in the first week of May.

•  Ganga Dussehra:

Legend has it that the sacred Ganges River descended to earth on this very day – that is celebrated today as the ganga Dussehra Festival. Devotees in large numbers assemble to take bath, worship and do aarti. This year the festival falls on 28^th May. It is celebrated in Varanasi.