Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh is an escape from civilization to the pure bliss of nature in the solitude of mountains. A snow desert with geographical diversity and beauty in the Himalayas, the valley lies between India and Tibet. With rough terrains, motorable roads, waterfalls, rivers, monasteries, hamlets and a non-polar glacier, the Spiti Valley is an offbeat destination for adventure, photography and meditation. Known as “Little Tibet” and “The Snow Desert”, this Himalayan valley is a soulful and sensuous artwork by the Supreme Architect. We at Travel Beats weave a visual story of the Spiti Valley.

The Spiti Valley is one of the best Himalayan destinations for spiritual seekers. Spirituality is an intense unearthly feeling of the soul in absolute solitude of peace and tranquility that the Spiti Valley is blessed with. It can rightly be called a Buddhist destination for being home to 1000-year old Buddhist monasteries which are locally known as Gompas. Dhankar Li is the most popular monastery and one of the tourist attractions here. The valley basks in the glory of its spiritual culture that has been cultivated in isolation from civilization.

The geographical diversity of the Spiti Valley is an attraction itself. This Himachal valley is a micro world of different geographical formations including canyons, mountains, glaciers, rivers and waterfalls. Several perennial rivers including the Spiti, the Pin, and the Chandra flow with gurgling sound through the desert terrains here. With beautiful lakes adding to the panoramic richness of the landscape, there is no limit to what to see in the Spiti Valley. The valley can be referred to as nature’s darling because of Bara Shigri, one of the largest non-polar glaciers in the world.

The Spiti Valley boasts of the Himalayan beauty in different forms which make it a photographers’ paradise. It offers huge space for a photography spree to nature photographers. The valley houses small villages in the geographically vast and varied landscape. One of the remotest regions in the Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau, the Spiti Valley nurtures simple rural life, a wonderful subject for travel documentaries and photography.

Wildlife abounds in the cold desert terrains of the Spiti Valley. A certain percentage of the bleak landscape is dotted with wildlife in proximity to the villages. Fossils can be seen at a few places across the valley. That is why Spiti is titled the Fossil Park of the world. Langza is one of the places where maritime fossils are found. Those on an exploration drive can spot out snow leopards, red fox, yaks and other animals in the Spiti Valley.

Trekking and safari are the pursuits of adventure in the Spiti Valley. Yaks are abundantly found in the valley as rearing yaks is a means of sustenance for the villagers. Many tourists find kicks in yak safari across the rough terrains of such a beautiful landscape as the Spiti Valley. Those who are not fond of yak safari can ride horses.

The day-to-day life of the natives in the Spiti Valley is a lesson on how to live with a smile on the face, a glint of joy in the eyes and rosy gleams on the cheeks despite difficulties in harsh atmospheric conditions. The valley owes its soulfulness to the simplicity of the people who drink to the beauty and breathe in the freedom of nature. Their innocence is the secret to their bliss.

The Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh is a must visit for spiritual culture, rural life, natural beauty, adventure and photography. If it makes you feel like flying to India in search of such offbeat destinations, book your flight on IndianEagle.com and get the cheapest airfare.

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Coonoor is the Darjeeling of South India. Coonoor is akin to Darjeeling from several standpoints: high-altitude location, panorama, sightseeing, toy train, tea & coffee plantation, geographical diversity and natural artifices. Nestled amidst the Nilgiri Hills in Tamil Nadu, Coonoor is 1850 m high from sea level. This South Indian hill station has so sublime and peaceful ambience that it makes you find poetry in every corner and hear the song of some invisible “Solitary Reaper” from far. It is a small garden town with tea and coffee plantations sprawling over the wavy sides of mountains. It enjoys the buzz of bees, the chirps of birds and the music of waterfalls. A summer resort for the British in the 19th century, Coonoor invites those in quest of sublimity, solitude and soulfulness.

By now, you are surely eager to know about the popular tourist attractions in Coonoor. Indian Eagle shares a brief Coonoor travel guide with focus on what to see and what to do in Coonoor: 

Sim’s Park

Sim’s Park is the greenest among the tourist attractions of Coonoor. Spreading over a lush green landscape of 12 acres at an elevation of about 1768 meters in the valley, Sim’s Park is like a pearl in oyster. It is a garden of various flowering plants, with a boating lake. The flowery beauty of the park never fades as there are seasonal flower plants in the garden. Sim’s Park has 8 different sections, designed in different styles. The “Fruit and Vegetable Show” is a special summer attraction of the park in May.

Lamb’s Rock

Image Credit: Flickr.com

Lamb’s Rock is the ultimate destination for trekkers in Coonoor. There are trekking trails offering some taste of adventure. Lamb’s Rock is a rough, pointed cliff with steep sides hundreds of feet below. The top of the cliff commands 360 degree views of the panorama along tea and coffee plantations. The Coonoor stream flows by the foot of Lamb’s Rock. One can vividly see the Coimbatore plains from here.

Dolphin’s Nose

Image Credit: Flickr.com

Dolphin’s Nose is the best photography point in Coonoor. The mind-blowing views of the Nilgiri Hills and the Catherine Falls make it seem to be a gateway to the world of nature. It is a meeting point of several different geographical formations. There are massive ravines on both sides of Dolphin’s Nose. The confluence of the Coonoor stream and the Kotagiri stream in one of the ravines is an attraction of this viewpoint.

Catherine Falls

Catherine Falls is one of the beautiful manifestations of nature in Coonoor. Also known as St. Catherine’s Fall, it falls from a height of 250 feet. The beauty of the waterfall can be seen and photographed from the nearby point Dolphin’s Nose. The top of the fall can be climbed on to along a vertical passage. The view of the fall is immensely impressive from the top.

The things to do in Coonoor

Trekking is the most popular activity in Coonoor. The beauty of this hill station in the Nilgiri Hills hangs along the trails from the foot to Lamb’s Rock. Photography and adventure on the way add to the excitement of trekking to Lamb’s Rock and Dolphin’s Nose. There are tea and coffee plantations sprawling on both sides of the trails. A walk through the plantations is as refreshing as the atmosphere. The greenery soothes the eyes and the mind. A 12-km long trail runs from Lady Canning’s Seat to Dolphin’s Nose. A route for trekking runs through the Hidden Valley. The valley brims with green beauty, lush greenery and soothing views. Boating in Sim’s Park, bird watching and photography are other things to do in Coonoor.

Golfing is an emerging attraction or activity in Coonoor. Because of its exotic location amidst beautiful sights of the Nilgiri Hills, Coonoor Hill Station has lots of potential to be developed as a golf destination for sports tourists and travelers. The Wellington is one of the most contemporary golf courses in India. The picturesque beauty and inexplicable serenity of the Wellington have given rise to its attraction as a film shooting location, too.

The most wonderful part of a trip to Coonoor

Coonoor falls on the hilly way between Ooty and Mettupalayam, connected by the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. The most wonderful part of a visit to Coonoor from Ooty or Mettupalayam is journey by the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, the only toy train in South India and one of the world heritage sites in India. Coonoor is close to Ooty near the top and far from Mettupalayam at the foot of the Nilgiri Hills.

Ooty is a short drive from Bangalore International Airport in Karnataka, and Mettupalayam can be reached via roadway from Chennai International Airport or Coimbatore Airport (domestic) in Tamil Nadu. Indian Eagle books the best possible flights to Bengaluru and Chennai International Airports.

The best time to visit Coonoor

Both summer and winter are the best seasons to visit Coonoor. Coonoor experiences mild temperature and pleasant weather throughout the year. It receives rainfall during monsoon from June to September. October to May is the ideal time for Coonoor sightseeing.

Fly to India this winter, visit Coonoor and travel by the Nilgiri Mountain Railway to Ooty. Get the best possible flight to Chennai and Bengaluru on IndianEagle.com.

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How to make the most of your trip to India during monsoon? No need to think hard! Book the cheapest flight to Bangalore or Chennai or Coimbatore, and set out for a journey by the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. The journey across the Nilgiri Mountains offers a rare mélange of adrenalin rush, adventuresome vibe and romantic feel. It is one of the most wonderful mountain rail journeys in India. Indian Eagle explains why you should travel by the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, at least, once in lifetime.

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway journey is accessible from two states of South India – Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. If you are flying to Bangalore International Airport, you can set out for a downward journey from Ooty, which is a short drive from Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka. Or, you can take an uphill journey from Mettupalayam in Coimbatore which is a 4-5 hour long drive from Madurai, one of the most famous temple cities of Tamil Nadu. Those on a traveling spree in South India can make a trip from Bangalore to Madurai or from Madurai to Bangalore via Coonoor on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.

READ MORE  Weekend Getaways from Bengaluru

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is popularly known as the Nilgiri Toy Train which runs between Udhagamandalam (Ooty) and Mettupalayam in Tamil Nadu. Ooty, the Queen of South Indian hill stations, is at the height of 7,228 feet near the top of the Nilgiri Hills, while Mettupalayam stands at the height of 1,069 feet near the foot of the Nilgiri Hills. The uphill or downhill journey between these two stations spans over a distance of 41.8 km. The uphill journey is longer than the downhill journey in terms of timespan. The former takes nearly 5 hours, while the latter takes 3.5 hours.

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway has 7 main stopovers – Kallar, Adderly, Hillgrove, Runneymede, Kateri Road, Coonoor and Lovedale – on its route between Mettupalayam and Ooty. The route features different geographic forms making it an unforgettable journey. Wavy paddy fields cover a 7-km long stretch from Mettupulayam to Kallar. The next part of the route spanning for a distance of 21 km from Kallar to Coonoor is dotted with rocky terrains. This rocky track has many twists and turns through 13 tunnels. Then, there is a steep rise from Coonoor to Fern Hill, the highest point on the route. The track runs downwards a little till Ooty.

Coonoor is the 2nd largest hill station in the Nilgiri Mountains. Located in the Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu, this hill station is famous for its beautiful tea estates. The Nilgiri tea is the mainstay of Coonoor whose tourist attractions include Sim’s Park, Dolphin’s Nose, Law’s Falls, Lamb’s Rock and Droog Fort. The part of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway track running through Coonoor is landscaped by tea plantations on both sides, making is a most picturesque phase of the journey. Coimbatore International Airport is a 56-km drive, and Ooty is 18 km away from Coonoor town. You can stop by Coonoor for one-day stay during the journey.

READ MORE  Coonoor Sightseeing Guide

The uphill journey ends in Ooty, the largest hill station in the Nilgiri Mountains and the state of Tamil Nadu. Ooty is one of the most popular summer retreats and monsoon holiday destinations in South India. It is a famous film shooting location too. Ooty Lake, Rose Garden, Botanical Garden, Stone House, Tribal Museum, St. Stephen’s Church, and Wax World are the must-visit tourist attractions of Ooty. If you drive from Ooty to catch your flight at Bangalore International Airport, make sure to halt at Mysore, a historic city in Karnataka, on the way. A 3-hour long journey by buses and trains from Ooty, Mysore is famous for Mysore Palace, Chamundeshwari Temple, Kannada Literature, Mysore silk, Mysore painting, and the history of Wodeyar Dynasty.

Constructed in 1908, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. The mountainous terrains had made the construction a massive challenge which was however converted into a marvel of engineering and technology. Painted in blue and cream, the train has wooden coaches with large windows which offer gripping views of the outer world. The train consists of first class and general class compartments. The first-class compartment offers a more comfortable journey than the general class. You can book a ticket or tickets within 2 months prior to the date of your journey, on IRCTC website.

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway has been filmed in several travel documentaries and feature films. A few sequences in A Passage to India, a Hollywood film by David Lean, were shot at Coonoor Station. If you are a Bollywood buff, you should watch Shah Rukh Khan’s journey on the rooftop of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway passing meanderingly through the green landscapes of Coonoor, in the popular song Chaiyya Chaiyya from Mani Ratnam’s Dil Se. Moreover, Ooty has been filmed in several movies of different South Indian languages.

It is said that live in the present as there is no tomorrow. So, don’t give a second thought to the opportunity of flying to India at the lowest fare. Book your flight to Bengaluru today on IndianEagle.com.

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Pachmarhi is like a laurel of glory for Madhya Pradesh tourism. Encircled by the range of Satpura Mountains, Pachmarhi is the best hill station in Central India. Making it an ideal summer tourist destination is the beauty of nature in harmony with the diversity of geography. Buzzing waterfalls, mystic caves, scenic sunrise points, flower-carpeted meadows, echoing hills, and age-old rock paintings are some of the attractions of Pachmarhi, which never fail to enchant the senses. Serene Solitude or solitude of serenity is the most suitable phrase to define the ambience of Pachmarhi, which is a must visit to not just unwind but to fall in love with India as well. If you are not convinced, Indian Eagle reasons further why visit Pachmarhi…

Pandav Caves

Among the best tourist attractions of Pachmarhi Hill station is the Pandav Caves, which has mythological references to the Mahabharata, one of the greatest Indian epics. As per the archaeological evidences from around the caves, it is assumed to be one of the shelters for the Pandavas in the exile. Nagdwari, whose head Nagraj Vasu had married off his daughter to Arjuna, one of the five Pandava brothers, is about 15 km away from Pachmarhi. Nagdwari is famous for the Nagpanchami Fair. The caves are named after the Pandava brothers and their wife Draupadi.

Bade Mahadeo Cave

Bade Mahadeo Cave is a spot of pilgrimage lending an air of spirituality to the ambience of Pachmarhi. Over the years, the cave has become a legendary tourist attraction with a mythological belief that King Bhasmasur was killed by Lord Vishnu disguised as Mohini here. The 60-feet long cave houses the life-size idols of Vishnu, Brahma, Mahesh and Ganesha. The serpentine road to the cave is a green landscape dotted with trees and shrubs. The Shivalinga is enshrined in the interior of the cave. There is a holy kund (small water body) in the middle of the cave.

Bee Falls

The 150-feet Bee Falls is the most spectacular attraction of Pachmarhi. Known as Jamuna Prapat to the locals, the waterfall flows into a pool below and fills the surrounding with an overwhelming buzz. A bath under the natural shower of the fall and in the pool is an irresistible temptation. Youngsters can ride on adventure from the stream to Rajat Prapat, another bathing pool, through the Bee Falls. The beauty of the waterfall, a photographer’s delight, will never let you forget the Pachmarhi trip.

Dhoopgarh

The highest point in Pachmarhi, Dhoopgarh is located 4429 feet above the sea level. To be precise, it is the sunrise and sunset point at this hill station in Madhya Pradesh. Make sure to spend some time with your dear ones in the solitude of nature at Dhoopgarh when the sun is rising or setting in the backdrop. Photograph the beauty and feel the silent eloquence of the place, which is beyond verbal expression.

Apsara Vihar

Apsara Vihar is another must-see tourist attraction in Pachmarhi. Called ‘kund’ in the local language, Apsara Vihar is a small bathing pool at a distance about 13 km from the Pachmari Bus stand. The unseen glory of the place is a magic that works like a spell on the tourists. The water of the kund feels like enchanting the mind and the senses. Bathing in the pool is believed to be a holy practice.

If the cost of air travel holds you back from flying to Madhya Pradesh, book your trip at the lowest airfare on IndianEagle.com. The cheapest flight is guaranteed. Please, no more excuse!

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Kodaikanal is the summer capital of Tamil Nadu just as Darjeeling is the paradise of Bengal, Munnar is the beauty of Kerala, and Shimla is the pride of Himachal Pradesh. One of the most popular hill stations in South India, Kodaikanal is full of surprises for trekkers, photographers, nature lovers, honeymooners, and tourists in general. A trip to Kodaikanal is relaxing, soothing and warming! Indian Eagle handpicks must-visit tourist attractions of Kodaikanal from the Kodaikanal tourist guide.

Kodaikanal Lake

The Kodaikanal Lake is one of the best tourist attractions of this summer and monsoon destination in Tamil Nadu. The lake, developed out of a marshy swamp, is surrounded by a beautiful landscape. It is a hub of outdoor activities including boating, which is a must in the evenings. Fishing is another popular activity that tourists love spending time in. The road around the Kodaikanal Lake is suitable for smooth horse riding and cycling.

Bryant Park

Bryant Park is a small world of nature in the solitude of nature where the air is full of fresh breaths. Flooded by the waves of greenery, the park is home to more than 325 species of cactuses, shrubs and trees. Carpeted with hundreds of flower plants, Bryant Park boasts a soothing ambience with a miasma of colors. A section of the park is dedicated to a myriad variety of rose plants. It is one of the nicest places for photography in Kodaikanal.

Kukkal Caves

Wait! Kodaikanal has a few more surprises for you. If historic attractions like caves pique your curiosity, you must visit Kukkal Caves. What makes this cave listed among the offbeat tourist attractions of Kodaikanal is the amazing formation out of overhanging rock slabs. Situated at a height of 1500 meters, the caves provide a vintage point to view the panorama of the valley from. The visually stunning backdrop of the Kukkal Caves is sure to inspire you for a photography spree.

Bear Shola Falls

If you are fond of waterfalls, Kodaikanal will not disappoint you. Bear Shola Falls is the most popular tourist point here. The way of the waterfall in the Reserve Forest is filled with a little adventure. It is smooth somewhere and rugged somewhere. The beauty of the landscape surrounding the Bear Shola Falls makes it an ideal picnic spot too.

Berijam Lake

Berijam Lake, another beautiful point in the Kodaikanal travel guide, is a bit long drive from the main tourist center. But, the journey is worth the time for the picturesque setting. What best describes Berijam Lake is the idyllic setting with serene ambience. Though boating is prohibited, the place is a must visit for natural sightseeing. You need to seek permission from the forest department if you feel an itch to wander around the forest.

Kurinji Andavar Temple

If you are sort of a pilgrim, Kodaikanal will serve your interest. Nature and divinity exist side by side in Kodaikanal. Kurinji Andavar Temple is the most popular place of worship here. The temple is a must visit for not just pilgrimage but also sightseeing because of its naturally beautiful, forest-covered surroundings. Dedicated to Lord Muruga, the gold of hills, the temple premise offers scenic views of the Palani Valley below.

Perumal Peak

Kodaikanal never lets anyone miss the taste of adventure. This South Indian hill station boasts Perumal Peak as a trekker’s delight. Perumal Peak is one of the highest peaks in the Perumalmalai Hills in the Western Ghats. Trekking from the base to the summit is full of thrills, which is sure to make your Kodaikanal travel a memorable one. Neither permission nor experience is essential as trekking is easy here. Perumal Peak is an artistic manifestation of nature.

Book Your Travel to India

Kodaikanal is a short drive from Chennai International Airport in Tamil Nadu. IndianEagle.com is the only travel portal to book cheap flights to Chennai from the United States and Canada.

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Kerala, God’s Own Country, is nature’s darling. Of the hill stations, Munnar is the summer capital of the state. Endowed with lush greenery and natural majesty, Munnar defies the ageing influence of time on its beauty, sensuousness and luxury. This summer retreat in Kerala is nestled amidst hills of the Western Ghats. A stay close to the highest peak of Anamudi in Munnar is a refreshing, relaxing and rejuvenating experience. If seen from a vintage point, the luring landscape of Munnar looks like a beautiful painting on canvas. IndianEagle presents a guide on Munnar tourism sightseeing by highlighting the places to visit there.

Top Station

At an altitude of 1,880 meters above sea level, Top Station is a paradise for photographers and those who admire the beauty of nature under the spell of romantic poems by William Wordsworth and John Keats. Visit to Top Station, one of the most naturally beautiful places in Munnar, is full of surprises including panoramic views of the Western Ghats. As the name suggests, it is the highest railway station in the Kundala Valley Railway in Kerala. Make sure to stop for a while at Echo Point on the way to Top Station. At Echo Point, you can hear the echoes of your voice reflected by nature. Especially kids enjoy such an engaging communication with nature amidst scenic vistas.

Mattupetty Dam

Mattupetty Dam reservoir is one of the must-see things to see in Munnar. Located at a distance of 13 km from the center of Munnar, the concrete dam was built to store water for hydroelectric projects. Nestled between the hill ranges, the dam reservoir is an idyllic spot to idle away hours by boating in the lap of nature. The area by the reservoir is a seat of relaxation for tourists.

Attukad Waterfalls

Attukad Waterfalls is as integral to the beautiful landscape of Munnar as the stars to the sky, and flowers to a garden. The waterfall is a beauty spot on the picturesque canvas of Munnar. It swells and falls incessantly in the monsoon. It remains a narrow mountain stream in summer, winter and other seasons of the year. The misty beauty of Attukad Waterfalls is an added attraction of Munnar.

Marayoor Sandal wood forests

Tough a little further than the other things to see in Munnar, Marayoor Sandalwood forest is just the right place for sightseeing and biking. Home to a natural sandalwood forest, the area steeped in references to the Stone Age of the civilization, which dates back to 10,000 B.C. The area used to be a heritage point with rock edits, paintings and other exhibits of the Stone Age.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

If it is wildlife that interests you the most, make sure to visit Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. Located in Idukki District from some 60 km from Munnar, the sanctuary is an ideal venue for trekking. It is home to 34 species of mammals, and 245 species of birds. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is worth a visit for wildlife photographers and bird lovers.

Blossom Park

Blossom Park is one of the few places in Munnar where the glory of nature is best manifested. Blossom International Park sprawling over 16 acres is a hub of peace and beauty. The surrounding of the park is the hillside landscape. Dotted with flower plants in rows, the park is a like a kaleidoscopic magic of colors. A walk between the two rows of flowers in the park is a relaxing experience.

Indian Eagle is booking the cheapest flights for summer trips to Kerala and other states of India. Grab the offer before it expires!

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Shimla, the pride of Himachal Pradesh and the summer capital of British India, celebrated the 150th anniversary of its foundation this month. It has been the “Queen of the Hills” in the Himalayan region of North India for last 150 years. Since the British Raj, Shimla has been fetching honeymooners, vacationers, holidaymakers, merrymakers, filmmakers, artists, painters, photographers, poets, snow lovers and nature worshippers. Dotted with some 100 buildings of the colonial era, it is not just a hill station but a heritage town. Shimla is as beautiful as it was 150 years ago. Indian Eagle handpicked the seven best places to visit in Shimla for those who have not been there yet.

Viceregal Lodge

Viceregal Lodge is among the few things which stand ground in contrast to the changing picture of Shimla. One of the Shimla tourist attractions, this landmark is also known as Rashtrapati Niwas. An enduring English Renaissance architecture, Viceregal Lodge used to be the summer residence of Lord Dufferin, the then Viceroy of India, and other members of the British administration. Today, it houses Indian Institute of Advanced Study. The panoramic view around this heritage building is unique to the beauty of Shimla.

Shimla Hill

Despite the growing age of the city, Shimla Hill stands tall with its head held high. It comprises of 7 hills at different locations in the area of 18 sq km. Prospect Hill, Observatory Hill, Bantony Hill, Summer Hill, Invereram Hill, Jakhoo Hill and Elysium Hill, are the 7 hills. Each of the hills is a tourist spot with some or the other attraction.

Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex

The Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex on Mall Road is a popular hangout cum tourist hotspot in the heart of Shimla. Since 1887, the building has been exuding charm of the Gothic architecture of the Victorian era. The Gaiety Heritage Cultural Building is home to a theater, a ballroom, a temple, a bar, restaurants and departmental stores. The theater has a tale to tell about the performance of such legendary actors as Prithvi Raj Kapoor, Rudyard Kipling, K.L. Sehgal and others.

Chadwick Falls

A waterfall in a hill station is like a pearl in an oyster. Located at a height of 1550m above the sea level and surrounded by lush green landscape, the waterfall is at a distance of 7 km from Summer Hill. Chadwick Falls is a rain-fed cascade whose natural beauty is a delight for photographers. It makes an ideal background for picnicking too.

Kufri

One of the must-visit tourist attractions of Shimla is Kufri which is famous for ski slopes and scenic views. Popular with snow lovers, Kufri is home to a Himalayan wildlife zoo where rare species of animals from the Himalayan region are preserved in a natural habitat. Tibetan wolf, Barking deer and brown bear are found here. Precisely speaking, Kufri is the central part of wildlife tourism in Shimla.

Shimla State Museum

Founded in 1974, Shimla State Museum is a treasure trove of the city’s natural and cultural wealth. Some of the exhibits in the collection belong to the age-old archaeology and anthropology of the state Himachal Pradesh. More than 9000 objects are displayed in the sprawling galleries of Shimla State Museum. The pre-historic collection includes woodcarvings, monument paintings, Gandhi Gallery, Rajasthan paintings, etc.

Kalka Shimla Railway

The heritage property of Himachal Pradesh, Kalka Shimla Railway has made its way through lofty mountains and rolling valleys. With 18 stopovers on the way, the Kalka Shimla train crosses 87 bridges and goes through 102 tunnels during the journey. The breathtaking sights of the Himalayan beauty of nature make the journey a memorable one. To know more about this UNESCO heritage, do check the most popular and wonderful railways in India.

Indian Eagle books trips to India at the lowest airfare throughout the year just like the constant natural beauty of Shimla. Check the latest cheap flight deals on IndianEagle.com.

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You may have heard several stories of Indian summer. That summer is hot and scorching in most of the Indian states is an undeniable fact. At the same time, it is true that India has many summer holiday destinations in the lap of nature. Since the British Raj, these destinations have been the summer capitals where heat does not dare to touch anyone. Most of these places are hill stations where nature does not obey to the whims of summer. Indian Eagle points out on the map of north, northeast and west India the top 10 summer holiday tourist destinations for fun, romance, peace, adventure, photography….

Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir

It won’t be unjust to call Srinagar the goddess of natural beauty in India. The capital of Jammu & Kashmir, it is a mirror to the wonderful artifices of nature. The summer ambience of Srinagar is cozy and charming. Adding to the lure of the landscape and the serenity of the surrounding is the Dal Lake where the floating vegetable and flower market is a photographers’ delight, in the morning. Sonmarg at a height of 2740 meters is an ideal visit for trekking and skiing which offer dollops of adventure. The snowy beauty of Sonmarg is really admirable.

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

The summer capital of the British Raj in the colonized India, Shimla is one of the best summer destinations in Himachal Pradesh. The face of Shimla dramatically changed when Charles Kennedy, a Scottish Civil servant, set up his summer abode here in 1822, and when the town became the official capital of the British for the summer season in 1864. After the capital of British India was shifted from Kolkata (then Calcutta) to Delhi, the officers of the East India Company and the British ladies took refuge in the cool & cozy atmosphere of Shimla in summers. October to June is the best tourist season of Shimla.

Darjeeling, West Bengal

The geography of Darjeeling is waved by green valleys of tea plantation and rocked by scenic mountains. Established by the British as a summer destination for their army, this hill station is the life and soul of West Bengal tourism. Darjeeling ticks all the boxes – wildlife, adventure, fun and romance. The panorama of this tourist destination spans across Kanchenjunga, Tiger Hill, Happy Valley Tea Gardens, Toy Train, Senchal Lake, and Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. Photography is an irresistible pleasure during sunset and sunrise. To be precise, Darjeeling is nature’s darling!

Shillong, Meghalaya

Surrounded by rolling hills, landscaped by tall pine trees and beautified by picturesque waterfalls, Shillong is like a piece of cloud floating in the sky. Now the capital of Meghalaya, it used to be a major British settlement. The food habits of the locals are influenced by the British. One of the summer capitals of the British India, this northeastern hill station is full of tourist attractions such as Shillong Peak, Lady Hydari Park, Wards Lake, Don Bosco Museum, and Mawsynram. Shillong takes pride in its hills and waterfalls which keep summer away.

Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

Called “gateway to the heaven”, Rishikesh is a major destination in North India. Not only the beauty but also the spirituality of nature makes itself felt all over here. Home to hermits, sages and monks in the Himalayan region, Rishikesh is famous for the Gangotri. Besides being a spot of pilgrimage, a seat of meditation and a hub of yoga in India, it is a swing of adventure as well. It is equally popular with pilgrims and adventure buffs. It is a very short drive from Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand. Many foreign tourists visit Rishikesh to attend the International Yoga Festival in the first week of March every year.

Cherrapunji, Meghalaya

One of the best summer destinations in India, Cherrapunji is the right place for those who spring into adventure even in summer. In India, it is one of the few tourist destinations where there is no off season. It teems with tourists and buzzes with activities throughout the year. The beautiful natural setting of Cherrapunji promises a rejuvenating vacation to the tourists in search of relief from the heat of summer. Among the tourist attractions of Cherrapunji, Mawsmai Falls is an irresistible temptation in itself.

Nubra Valley, Ladakh

The abstract beauty of nature is sensuously manifested in each nook and each corner of Nubra Valley in Ladakh. Nicknamed Ldumra that means “valley of flowers”, Nubra Valley defines how pleasant, how beautiful, and how relaxing the world of nature is. The passage to Nubra Valley goes through Khardung La Pass, the highest motorable pass in the world. Popularly known as the Orchard of Ladakh, Nubra Valley boasts two natural rich places – Hunder and Panamik. Waved by sand dunes, Hunder is called “desert in the sky”. Monasteries add to the picturesqueness of the valley.

Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

If you are looking to spend summer months in the solitude of peace and silence, Tawang is a must visit in Arunachal Pradesh. Tawang is a sparsely populated town inhabited by the Monpa people who belong to the Monyul or Lhomon Kingdom. Home to beautiful monasteries, this region is like a hidden jewel. The tourist attractions of Tawang include Gorichen Peak, Craft Center, Sela Pass, Gorsam Chorten, Tsachu Hot Spring, Nuranang Falls, Banga Jang Lake, etc. This small town in Arunachal Pradesh has all the makings of a summer capital.

Nainital, Uttarakhand

If Rishikesh is popular with the spirituality seekers, Nainital is a favorite of romantics. Among the best hill stations in Uttarakhand, Nainital is gifted with the romantic beauty of nature. Lavished with serenity and greenery all over, this hilly region inspires tourists to fall in love with the lakes and hills. A must visit in summers, Nainital is sure to make you feel young during a sightseeing tour. Boating and angling in the Lake Naini are among the joyous things to do. The authentic Tibetan cuisine is a must try here.

Gulmarg, Kashmir

Glorifying Kashmir as a summer holiday destination in India is Gulmarg in the Baramula District. Gulmarg is the place to be for those who drink to pleasure out of peace and those who find adrenalin rush in adventure. Do feel the soulfulness of the place during a Gondola ride, do catch an eyeful of the panorama from the cable car, and do experience the kicks of adventure while skiing on the snow. So, why not add Gulmarg to your list of Indian destinations to visit in summers?

IndianEagle.com is booking the cheapest flights to the summer capitals of India. Hope, you are no more in two minds about flying to India in summer months!

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The mountain rail journeys in India are so diverse and panoramic that they never cease to enchant authors, filmmakers, photographers, explorers and travelers. With 17,000 trains of different sizes carrying more than 18 million passengers across the 64,000 km long track, the Indian Railways has many tales to tell. After a flight to India, do travel by trains which run through the remote interiors, forested areas, coastal regions, steep plateaus and precarious mountain terrains of the country. Train travel along the zigzag railway routes through the mountains of India is an exploration drive high on euphoria just like an escape to John Keats’ melodious world of nightingales. Indian Eagle shares tidbits of the best trains for mountain rail journeys in India.

The Kalka Shimla Railway

One of the most picturesque and highest railway tracks in the Himalayan region of India, the Kalka Shimla Railway is a wonder of technology. Built in 1903, the 96-km long rail route is a steep climb across the hills. The train Himalayan Queen crosses 900 curves, 102 tunnels and 87 bridges on the route. Listed in the Guinness Book of World Records, the Kalka Shimla Railway used to transport the English ladies to Shimla, the then summer capital of British India. The wonderful artifices of nature on both sides of the track make this train travel a euphoric experience. The train runs from the Shivalik foothills at Kalka, a town in Panchkula district of Haryana to Shimla at an altitude of 2,076 meters in Himachal Pradesh.

READ MORE  Travel Story of Spiti Valley

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

Darjeeling is a paradise on earth, and the Toy Train is the gateway to this paradise in the Himalayas. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, popularly known as the Toy Train for its miniature size, is the first passenger route in the mountainous terrains of India. A World Heritage Site, the Toy Train was built in 1881 to boost the development of Darjeeling as a tourist destination in the Himalayas. The 88.48 km gauge track from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling passes through several green valleys and 11 hill stations. Ghoom, the second highest railway station in the world, is a halt on the way. The journey begins with an eyeful of green valleys and ends with a panorama of the Kanchenjunga. The 11 km long part of the track from Sukna to Rongtong consists of dense forests. The way up to Kurseong is a sprawling hilly area with tea gardens. The 30 km of the route up to Darjeeling is the alpine landscape dotted with Himalayan pine trees.

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway in Tamil Nadu is the most scenic route penetrating the mysteries of nature. The beauty of this South Indian railway is aesthetically captured in the “Chaiya Chaiya” song in Mani Ratnam’s Bollywood blockbuster Dil Se starring Shahrukh Khan. Built in 1908, the 46-km long single track railway across an elevation from 326 m to 2,203 m is a marvelous work of engineering. One of the best trains for mountain rail journeys in India, the Nilgiri Passenger passes through 16 tunnels, 250 bridges and 208 curves during its uphill journey from Mettupalayiyam to Udagamandalam or Ooty at the peak of the Nilgiri Mountain. The route consists of tropical forests with eucalyptus and acacia trees.

READ MORE  Travel Story of Nilgiri Mountain Railway

We offer the lowest airfare to India just as these mountain railways provide pleasant travel experience. Online booking of the cheapest flight is just a few clicks away from IndianEagle.com.

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Many foreign tourists are more familiar with the hill stations in the Himalayan region of North India than the hill stations in South India. They think that Himalayan hill stations are suitable for not only sightseeing but also meditation as well as yoga. However, the remedial and meditative power of nature manifests itself in the beauty, solitude, peace and greenery of the following South Indian hill stations. Indian Eagle recommends these five of the best South Indian hill stations for any seasonal vacation in India.

Ooty

Ooty is as charming as a child’s imagination of a toy train making its way through mountains amidst picturesque settings where a lake lies in peace and greenery exudes freshness. This picture of Ooty is not a piece of mere imagination. It exists as a concrete creation of nature with many visual attractions that catch the eyes of a traveler in us. Mother Nature makes her artistry felt in every nook and corner of this hill station at a short drive from Mysore and Bangalore or Bengaluru in Karnataka. Pykara Waterfalls, Doddabetta Peak, Kamaraj Sagar Lake, and Catherine Waterfalls make Ooty a must visit at a height of 7350 feet above ground.

Coorg

Ask an Indian painter to create a picture of Scotland on the canvas, he will paint Coorg. Yes, among the hill stations of South India, Coorg is titled the ‘Scotland of India’. Lavished with greenery and landscaped with coffee plantations, Coorg lets you drink to the beauty of nature through sensory visuals of the Western Ghats. For its soothing and sedating atmosphere, Coorg seems to be a land of lotus eaters on in India. The itinerary of this South Indian hill station in Karnataka is full of tourist spots including waterfalls, temples, national parks and the Kaveri River. Abbey Falls is a favorite of tourists there.

Kodaikanal

If the hill stations of Tamil Nadu compete with each other in terms of height, Kodaikanal is sure to win the competition. Kodaikanal boasts of a height of 7,000 feet above ground. This South Indian hill station is a thing to all catering to the likes of lovers, honeymooners, poets, romantics and peace seekers. The sprawling lake dominates the landscape of Kodaikanal which is further beautified by Bryant Park, Pine forests, Silver Cascade Waterfalls, and Dolphin’s Nose. Sightseeing in and round Kodaikanal is an elixir of warmth for the mind and that of joy for the eyes.

Munnar

According to John Milton, celebrated author of Paradise Lost, hell and heaven exist in our minds. If there is heaven in the world outside the mind, it is Munnar in Kerala. With tea plantations rolling around hills, Munnar is an escape to ecstasy in the solitude of nature. Still, many of the treks are unexplored there. Unlike Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu, Munnar is a hotbed of joyous activities including Sightseeing, cycling and trekking for the fun-loving tourists. Do visit Photo Point, Attukal Waterfalls, Mattupetty Dam, Eravikulam National Park and the hill town of Devikulam at the height of 6,000 feet where Munnar is located.

Yercaud

One of the most beautiful jewels in the crown of Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is blessed with virgin beauty of nature. Located in Salem District near the Eastern Ghats, this hill station takes pride in Big Lake with a floating island. The surrounding of the lake is steeped in green beauty of the place. Besides the lake, it is the cave temple of Servaroyan where the idols of river deities are preserved with mysticism. Yercaud at a height of 4970 feet above the ground is the location of the famous Killiyur Falls. Whiffs of aroma from tea plantations and sandalwood trees make the air pleasant to the olfactory sense.

Have you ever explored the bounty of nature at these superior destinations of South India? IndianEagle.com books the cheapest flights to Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu – the key for you to explore these heavens.

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