Indian Summer Tourism revolves around hill stations and misty valleys. Your perception of summer in India as a scorching season will be converted into an impression of luxury in nature if you ever happen to visit any of the top 10 Indian summer holiday destinations listed below. These coolest places will hide you from the fury of the sun, pamper you amidst the beauties of nature, make you feel poetic with a treasure of lyrics, trap you in a labyrinth of holiday mood with no escape, and…. We are sure; our summer travel wishlist will make you redefine Indian summer as a soothing season of vacation.      

Rishikesh in Uttarakhand  

Popularly known as “Yoga Capital of the World”, Rishikesh is a mirror to Divine India with hilly beauty. Crowned with the blue sky where pearl-white clouds hang out, and bathed by the soothing waters of the Ganga River, Rishikesh is a haven of spirituality, an abode of hermits, and a seat of meditation amidst forested hills. This yoga & meditation retreat in Uttarakhand is also popular for white-water rafting and backpacking.

Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh

One of the lesser-known summer destinations in India! Blessed as s summer retreat for its high-altitude location (10,000 feet above sea level), Tawang is a Himalayan beauty. The 14^th century Tawang Monastery, Pankang Teng Tso Lake, and Tipi Orchid Sanctuary are the tourist attractions of Tawang. The way to this region passes through the snow-covered Sela Top Pass. If you are in love with hills, Tawan should be on your India travel wishlist for summer 2015.

Ghoom Valley in West Bengal    

[pullquote]A visit to Ghoom Valley deserves to be scripted as a travel memoir of summer in India.[/pullquote] The highest railway station in India, Ghum Valley is a must stop during a journey by the Darjeeling Toy Train. Visit Tiger Hill at a distance of 5 km from Ghoom, and admire the majesty of Kanchenjunga on a clear day. A glimpse of the sunrise above hilltops is a divine blessing of Mother Nature, which the lucky few are favored with! Dotted with forests and streams all around, Ghoom Valley is the crown of Darjeeling at an altitude of 7,407 feet. 

Zanskar Valley in Jammu & Kashmir 

Zanskar Valley is an adrenalin-pumped road trip from Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir. One of the least explored tourist places in India, Zanskar Valley sprawls over an area of 7,000 square kilometers at a height of 11,500–23,000 feet. The Zanskar River, which remains frozen for a greater part of the year, is the most picturesque artifice of nature in the Great Himalayan Region. The existence of life in Zanskar Valley is traced back to the Bronze Age.

Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh

Home to perennial streams and green landscape from Dhauladhar Range to the River Beas! Kangra Valley is famous for the Kangra-Shimla Railway, UNESCO World Heritage Site in Himachal Pradesh. One of the best summer holiday destinations in India, this Himachal valley is also known for Himalayan pyramids, which are Masroor Rock Cut Temples. Kangra Valley owes its mesmeric hilly beauty to the lofty peaks on the Dhauladhar range.

Wayanad in Kerala

One of the coolest places in India during summer, Wayanad in Kerala is the ‘Green Paradise’. The sensuous beauty of nature is felt across the dense forests, misty hills, and lush green fields of Wayanad. Home to rich flora and fauna, the valley is a favorite of bird lovers. Take a leisurely walk through tea & coffee plantations and breathe in the aroma-filled air. Nestled amidst Western Ghats, Wayanad will surely make you write a story “My Summer Holiday in India away from the Sun.”

Coonoor in Tamil Nadu

[pullquote]Visit Coonoor to hear the buzz of bees, the chirps of birds and the music of waterfalls. Here is our Coonoor Travel Guide.[/pullquote]  Sightseeing in Coonoor is a kaleidoscopic magic of nature! The queen of the Nilgiri Hills in Tamil Nadu, Coonoor has been a summer holiday retreat since the British Raj in the 19^th century. It has many geographical features in common with Darjeeling. A journey by the Nilgiri Mountain Railways between Coonoor and Ooty will lavish your mind with lyrics for a soulful poem. Sublimity, solitude and serenity are the facets of Coonoor at a height of 1850 meters above sea level.

Yumthang Valley in Sikkim

One of the best Himalayan valleys for summer vacation in the Indian state of Sikkim, Yumthang Valley will surely enchant you to become a travel escapist. It is a valley of flowers at an elevation of 11, 800 feet above sea level. The valley hibernates during heavy snowfall between December and March. Adding to scenic beauty of Yumthang Valley is a tributary of the Teesta River flowing past Lachung Town. The valley blooms with 24 species of rhododendrons and other hilly flowers in spring.

Lakshadweep Islands

[pullquote]October to April is the best time to visit Lakshadweep. Go through our complete story of Lakshadweep Islands.[/pullquote] One of the best imaginary places on earth, Lakshadweep is a never-never land in the Arabian Sea on the west coast of Kerala. Lakshadweep is a group of 36 coral islands; each is the flat peak of a submerged mountain. The gateway to this wonderland is the airport on Agatti Island. One of the top 10 tourist destinations in India in summer, Lakshadweep is a swing of sun-kissed pristine beaches with greenish-blue waters.

Kudremukh in Karnataka

Karnataka has its share of Indian summer tourism. One of the tourist destinations in Western Ghats close to the Arabian Sea, Kudremukh is a valley of vistas. The origin of three rivers – the Tunga, the Bhadra, and the Nethravathi, Kudremukh Valley is famous for trekking and photography. Kudremukh National Park, one of the hotspots of biodiversity in India, is a tourist attraction of this summer retreat. The park is home to endangered mammals.

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The post Indian Summer Travel Wishlist 2015 appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

[pullquote]“Sometimes the most scenic roads in life are the detours you didn’t mean to take.” – Angela N. Blount.[/pullquote] If you are looking for life-changing detours in the labyrinth of mountains, hills, meadows or valleys, travel to India and hit the mountainous or hilly or beachfront or landscaped roads with bikes. India’s best road trips are suitable for biking holidays in the Himalayan region, the desert trails, the Deccan plateau, the Western Ghats, the Eastern Ghats, and coastal reaches. Some road trips in India are surreal stories, while some are adrenalin-pumping adventures. Indian Eagle shares 10 best road trip ideas for bikers.

Coorg to Munnar Road Trip 

The road trip from Coorg to Munnar is one of the short road trips in India. Both Coorg in Karnataka and Munnar in Kerala are blessed with greenery in abundance. The Coorg to Munnar road trip is a ride through the corridor of lush green landscapes dotted with tea plantations rolling across forested hills.

ALSO CHECK Munnar Sightseeing Guide

Chennai to Pondicherry Road Trip 

The Chennai to Pondicherry road trip in the Eastern Ghats is like a dream swing in the cradle of panoramic sightseeing. The East Coast Road from Chennai in Tamil Nadu to Pondicherry runs along the Bay of Bengal. The miles-long coastline holds scenic views for riders on the way.

Kalimpong to Siliguri Road Trip 

The road trip from Kalimpong to Siliguri in West Bengal is one of the most challenging trips for bikers because of the precarious Zuluk loops. But the beauty of the landscape on both sides of the road takes away the fear of threats to life. Known as the Old Silk route, the Kalimpong to Siliguri road is steeped in history.

Udaipur to Jaipur Road Trip 

The Udaipur to Jaipur road is one of the biking-friendly desert trails in Rajasthan. Biking along this trail through sand dunes from Udaipur to Jaipur is a poetic experience for those who can drink to beauty in the aridity of desert. The rugged landscape on both sides will make you feel like a rough & tough biker.

Manali to Spiti Valley Road Trip 

The road from Manali to Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh is ideal for biking and photography. It is one of the high-altitude routes in the Himalayan region, which remains covered in snow for a longer time of the year. Manali is one of the most beautiful summer destinations in India. Spiti Valley is a pure bliss of nature in the solitude of mountains.

ALSO CHECK A Trip to Spiti Valley

Zanskar to Leh Road Trip 

If you love riding at high altitudes for adrenalin rush, the Zanskar to Leh road trip is awaiting you this summer. Biking from Zanskar to Leh is no fun! It is a strenuous activity that puts bikers to a test of endurance. Scenic views of lofty mountains across rocky terrains will leave you with a fulfilling experience.

Road Trip to Rann of Kutch 

The Rann of Kutch in Gujarat is a vast expanse of salty sands beyond horizon. The flat and plain field rolling beyond measure, that is exactly the Rann of Kutch, offers the ultimate thrills of biking. The ethereal beauty of the moonlit night or the twinkling of the stars in the open sky makes biking a surreal experience in the Rann of Kutch.

Manali to Rohtang Pass Road Trip 

You cannot imagine how spectacular sightseeing can be without taking the Manali to Rohtang Pass road trip. The walls of snow on both sides of the road give the visual high that will remain fresh in your memory for years. Biking from Manali to Rohtang Pass is such an inexplicable experience!

Mumbai to Trivandrum Road Trip 

If you are an adventurer in search of panoramic vibes, ride your bike from Mumbai to Trivandrum via Mangalore. This road trip promises to be a celebration of the senses due to pristine beaches and verdant forests on the way. The Mumbai to Trivandrum road trip is part of the Udupi trail for biking.

Bhalukpong to Tawang Road Trip 

The Arunachal trail from Bhalukpong to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is the call to those strong hearts which beat for excitement out of adrenalin rush. Be careful to avoid the traps of danger on the way. Landslides cause roadblocks in the seasons when extreme weather is experienced. If you believe in the maxim “All is well if the end is well,” the Bhalukpong to Tawang road trip is a story to be retold several times.

Travel Beats, a digital content portal by IndianEagle, publishes interesting travel stories, useful travel tips and latest aviation news from India and United States.

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India has been the cradle of yoga and meditation for ages. People from across the world travel to India in quest of peace as well as spirituality that connection with the inner self, the soul and the universe ensures through yoga and meditation. From the Himalayas region to Kanyakumari, India is home to several yoga and meditation retreats which have cured many weary minds, calmed many agitated minds, and set many distracted minds in the right direction. Indian Eagle lists some of the best yoga and meditation centers where you seek rejuvenation of the mind, peace of the soul, knowledge of the self, and discovery of the inner strength.       

Ramana Maharshi Ashram, Tiruvannamalai 

One of the best destinations for yoga in the solitude of mountains is Ramana Maharshi Ashram in Tiruvannamalai. Situated at the foothills of the sacred Mountain Arunachala, the ashram is blessed with the spiritual power of nature. The sage Ramana Maharshi, founder of the ashram, recommends yoga and meditation as paths to the freedom of the body and the mind from physical bounds as well as mental blocks. Sprawling over a large area, the ashram has got suitable ambiance for dedicated practice of yoga and meditation. The chanting of slokas in the background adds sonority to the atmosphere that helps visitors meditate deeply on their inner selves.

Website: Sriramanamaharshi.org

Yogoda Satsanga Sakha Ashram, Uttarakhand

This ashram in Dwarahat is the ultimate destination for the followers of Kriya Yoga. Its location amidst picturesque landscapes in the surrounding has made Yogoda Satsanga Sakha Ashram an ideal venue for the pursuit of yoga. Yoga is taught as a method of self-realization here. Founded by Sri Daya Mata, the ashram is associated with the Self Realization Fellowship foundation, set up by Paramahansa Yogananda who has authored the classic book “Autobiography of a Yogi”. Those who are members of Yogoda Satsanga Society and Self Realization Fellowship are provided with accommodation.

Website: Yssofindia.org

Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Rishikesh 

Rishikesh in the Himalayan region is the cradle of yoga and meditation in India. Thousands from across the world visit Rishikesh to learn the art and science of yoga every year. Parmarth Niketan Ashram which hosts International Yoga Week in March is one of the best places for yoga and meditation in Rishikesh. Situated near the holy Ganga River, the ashram is a complete hub of professional yoga and meditation practices in sync with the age-old traditions maintained by saints and monks. Parmarth Niketan Ashram is a haven of peace because of its scenic and serene location.

CLICK International Yoga Week 2015 for details

Website: Parmarth.com

Santosh Puri Yoga Ashram, Haridwar

Some of the foreigners on visit to India in quest of spirituality stay back in Rishikesh for the rest of their lives. The founder of Santosh Puri Yoga Ashram in Haridwar is originally a national from Germany. She is fondly called Mataji by the locals and visitors in Haridwar. Vibrant with sacred chanting and holy hymns in mornings and evenings, the atmosphere of the ashram is full of positive vibes for yoga practitioners. Santosh Puri Yoga Ashram is recommended for hatha yoga and yoga philosophy.

Website: Sanatansociety.org

Atma Darshan Yogashram, Bangalore

If you ever fly to Bangalore, make sure to visit Atma Darshan Yogashram. A center of the Bihar School of Yoga, the ashram works to spread the holy teachings of Swami Satyananda. Small but beautiful, the ashram offers non-residential yoga courses from Monday to Saturday. Residential yoga courses are also available, but there are limited seats.

Website: Atmadarshan.org      

The Art of Living Ashram, Bangalore 

An international center of yoga and meditation, the Art of Living in Bangalore is one of the most popular destinations for spiritual seekers. A favorite of foreigners in search of peace and spirituality, the ashram runs several philanthropic activities besides yoga and meditation in India. Sprawling over 65-acre areas on top of the Panchagiri Hills, the ashram campus consists of gardens and organic farms. People from different religions and cultures are welcome here.

Website: Artofliving.org

Isha Yoga Center, Tamil Nadu

An ideal retreat for rejuvenation of the mind and the body, Isha Yoga Center in Tamil Nadu has been offering yoga programs for two decades. Located at the foot of the Velliangiri Mountains in Coimbatore, the center is a popular seat of Isha yoga in India. The yoga-intensive programs, conducted by this non-profit organization, are focused on physical health and mental wellness.

Website: Ishafoundation.org

Tushita Meditation Center, Himachal Pradesh 

Tushita Meditation Center in Dharamsala is the place to reconnect with your inner being in the solitude of peace. The way of learning yoga and meditation in India is very simple here. This small organization is blessed with peace and spirituality for its serene location in the Himalayan region. The atmosphere of the place is powerful enough to calm the mind and free it from negative thoughts or worries that take a toll on mental health.

Website: Tushita.info

March 1 to 7 is the schedule of International Yoga Week 2015 in Rishikesh, India. Book your AIR TRAVEL to INDIA at the lowest prices on IndianEagle.com. The earlier you book, the cheaper flight you get.  

The post Best Places for Yoga and Meditation in India from Kashmir to Kanyakumari appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

Why not take a drive to Kullu in Himachal Pradesh if you are flying to Delhi during Dussehra? Kullu, one of the Himalayan valleys in Himachal Pradesh, is a good escape to nature. The reason of recommending a drive to Kullu once Dussehra is over in Delhi and other parts of India is the Kullu Dussehra Festival. It is the best opportunity to experience divinity, festivity and natural beauty in the Himalayan region. We at IndianEagle take a walk through how Kullu Valley celebrates Dussehra. 

Dussehra in Kullu is one of the major festivals in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The Himalayan hues of Himachal Pradesh look brighter during the colorful and cheerful celebration. When the Dussehra festivity comes to an end with the burning of effigies of Ravana all over the country, Kullu calls for celebrations.

Dussehra in Kullu, the valley of living gods, begins with a spectacular procession of Lord Raghunathji, the presiding deity of the region. The sprawling Dhalpur Maidan is transformed into a temporary residence of Lord Raghunathji during week-long celebrations. Once in a year, the idol is ceremoniously brought from Sultanpur temple in the palace of the king of Kullu to the ground on Dussehra.

The idol of Lord Raghunathji is carried on an ornate chariot with ropes which are pulled by devotees out of the faith that it will bless them with health and prosperity. Goddess Hadimba from Manali also joins the procession as it is a significant part of the celebration. When the chariot of Lord Raghunathji reaches the Beas River, fire is set to a heap of wood grass. This ceremonious fire marks the burning of Lanka after “Lanka Dahan”, a significant part of the Ramayana.

It is followed by a ritual of sacrificing five animals. Once the sacrifice ceremony is over, Lord Raghunathji and Goddess Hadimba are brought back to their respective abodes. The procession is a grand show of the locals’ faith in divinity and zest for festivity. The procession comes to an end with an array of cultural performances in the evening. The entire valley soaks in merriment over cultural programs including folk dances. Various shows are staged at an open-air theatre for entertainment of art connoisseurs among the visitors.

About 20 idols of the gods and goddesses from different parts of the valley join the procession adding to the gala. The only celebration that the Dussehra procession in Kullu can be compared to is Rath Yatra, a grand Chariot Festival in Odisha. The celebration in Kullu begins on Dussehra and continues for a week. During the week-long celebration, the idols are bathed, decorated, and worshiped.

The air of Kullu Valley brims with cultural enthusiasm and divine enchantment during the Dussehra festival. Even nature rejoices in the festivity. Folk music and dance performances are held to entertain the visitors in fairs under the open sky. The handicraft lovers can shop for traditional artwork of Himachal Pradesh in the fairs.

The procession of Lord Raghunathji, the cultural fairs, the folk dance performance by Gaddi shepherds, and Ram Lila, dramatic enactment of Lord Rama’s life are among the must-see attractions of Dussehra in Kullu. Though it does not match the grandeur of Navratri in Gujarat, Ram Lila in Delhi, Durga Puja in Bengal, and Dussehra in Mysore, it evokes the blessings of gods and goddesses in the Himalayas.

Also Read Exclusive Stories of Indian Festivals

The post Dussehra Begins in Kullu valley of Himachal Pradesh after It Comes to an End in the Rest of India appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

The magic and mirth of monsoon are in harmony with the beauty of nature in different forms at most tourist destinations crisscrossing India. Some of these Indian monsoon getaways are splendidly captured in the visual frames of a few Bollywood songs of the rain. Monsoon is lately arrived in India. Like the previous year, we are recommending to you four Indian tourist destinations for monsoon travel, which have been ideal shooting locations for some of the most romantic Bollywood numbers.

Chamba Valley – shooting location of Taal se taal mila

Himachal Pradesh, a Himalayan state of India, is home to several picturesque valleys where nature is deeply felt in every nook and corner. Chamba, one of the most beautiful Himachal valleys with lush green landscape, was the shooting location of “Taal se taal mila”, the title song in the music album of Taal directed by Subhash Ghai. The song features Aishwarya Rai romancing nature in the rains. Dressed in white, she seems to feel the monsoon bliss of nature with all her senses, in Chamba Valley. Visit to the valley is an ideal escapade during monsoon travel in India.

READ MORE Best Monsoon Snacks of India

Munnar – shooting location of Bann ke titli dil uda uda

Munnar is an all-time must-visit destination in Kerala. Blessed with the green beauty of nature, Munnar sightseeing is a breathtaking experience. The panorama of Munnar with luxuriant meadows and verdant hills is candidly featured in the romantic song “Bann ke titli dil uda uda”, a most popular number in the music album of Chennai Express starring Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone in the lead. Those who have not visited Munnar yet will feel a strong urge to live some moments of romance amidst soothing sights of Munnar, on seeing the video of this song.

READ MORE  Monsoon Flower Markets of India

Athirapally – shooting location of Barso re megha megha

The visual frames of the song “Barso re megha megha” splendidly capture the magic of rains in Athirapally, a stretch of green forest with waterfalls in Kerala. The song featuring Aishwarya Rai as a beautiful damsel enjoying herself during rains in the backdrop of panoramic greenery is a celebration of monsoon, in the movie Guru directed by Mani Ratnam. The scenic splendors of Athirapally Falls, a monsoon attraction of Athirapally in Kerala, are harmoniously blended with the energetic notes of the song. Kerala has several monsoon travel destinations.

READ MORE Monsoon Travel in Hyderabad

Jodhpur – shooting location of Mhare hiwda mein naache mor

The picturization of the Bollywood romantic number “Mhare hiwda mein naache mor” in the music album of Hum Saath Saath Hain makes it clear that a heritage tourist destination looks amazing in the rains. A bevy of Bollywood divas dressed in traditional outfits of Rajasthan dance heartily to the music of rains at Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada in Jodhpur. The monsoon beauty of Jodhpur, a hub of heritage tourism in Rajasthan, can woo travelers though there is no waterfall or lake to overwhelm the senses.

Book your trips to Indian monsoon getaways at the cheapest airfare of the season on IndianEagle.com. Monsoon travel in India promises to be a wonderful memoir!

The post Indian Monsoon Getaways in Romantic Bollywood Songs appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

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.

The post Spiti Valley: The Snow Desert of India Full of Solitude and Bliss appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

Today is World Environment Day, the day to take initiatives, drive campaigns and make promises to keep the world green for healthy living of the next generation. Green travel is one such a great step taken by most of today’s environment-conscious travelers and trippers. India is the ultimate destination for green travel in Asia. There are many green tourism hubs along the length and breadth of the country. Indian Eagle takes you through different ways of green travel in India.

The skyline of metro cities in India is getting chock-a-block with skyscrapers and flyovers. Environment activists have already started referring to tier I capital cities as concrete jungles. But, a few tier I and tier II Indian cities are blessed with greenery. There are Gandhinagar, Chandigarh, Nagpur, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Guwahati, Bhopal, Pune, Jamshedpur and Thiruvananthapuram. Bangalore, the Silicon Valley of India, is popularly known as the Garden City for its green landscape dotted with gardens, parks and lakes. The cityscape of Gandhinagar on the banks of the Sabarmati River is dotted with 33 lakh trees.

Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala with backwaters and beaches, is one of the greenest cities in the world. The lush green landscape of Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, is dominated by 33 beautiful lakes. The city of lakes is located at the upper edge of the Vindhya mountain range. Built at the foot of the Shivalik mountain range, Chandigarh is known for its Rock Garden and Rose Garden. This union territory of India is not just best planned but the greenest city in the country. Jamshedpur, the Steel City of India in Jharkhand, is meticulously beautified with scenic greenery sprawling over lakes, parks and sanctuaries.

Green travel in India is synonymous with hill stations from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. South Indian hill stations are as green as North Indian hill stations are covered in snow. If you look down while flying over Kerala, it looks like a pool of green waves on the map of South India. It won’t be an exaggeration to call Kerala a state of hill stations considering the great number of hill stations there. Unlike the Himalayan towns and tourist destinations, the hill stations of Kerala and Tamil Nadu like Munnar, Ooty, Kodaikanal, Wayanad, and Idduki brim with green beauty throughout the year.

Darjeeling is the greenest of all hill stations in other states of India. The green belt of Darjeeling mainly consists of tea estates at the foothill of mountains. It becomes greener during monsoon. Mount Abu is the green paradise of Rajasthan in West India. It is an oasis of greenery in the sands of Rajasthan. There is a wildlife sanctuary too. Pachmarhi, the only hill station in Central India, is a laurel of green in the range of Satpura Mountains. Buzzing waterfalls and flower-carpeted meadows make Pachmarhi a must-visit destination for green travel.

The hill stations of Maharashtra are the natural hubs of greenery in monsoon and winter. Most of these green holiday tourist destinations are located between Mumbai and Pune in Maharashtra. Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani, Matheran, Khandala, Amboli, Lonavala and Dapoli are the most popular hills stations, far from the madding crowd. These less-frequented destinations boast of green sightseeing spots, breathtaking sunset points, beautiful lakes and mountains with rolling waves of green. Waterfalls in the Sahyadri Mountain range encircling some of the hill stations look like white streaks on a deep green canvas, from a distance.

If you are a diehard biker, take road trips to travel green in India. There are green routes, long and short, for scenic road trips in the Himalayan and coastal regions of India. A road trip from Mumbai to Goa along the west coast of the country is a journey into the green land. The same is true about the Bangalore to Goa route for road trippers. Road trips from Mumbai to Lonavala, Chennai to Kanyakumari, from Shillong to Cherrapunji, and from Dehradun to Nainital are like dives into a green sea.

If you are looking to travel green by trains, India is one of the best destinations in the world. The mountain railways of India promise a life-enriching green travel experience. A green journey on wheels running through forested areas, coastal regions, mountain terrains and steep plateaus is full of natural bliss. The Kalka Shimla Railway in Himachal Pradesh, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway in West Bengal, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway in Tamil Nadu, and the Konkan Railway in the Western Ghats are the greenest routes offering the greenest glimpses of nature to green travelers.

Indian Eagle wishes you happy World Environment Day! We would like to conclude with a quote by Barack Obama, the US President: “Only when I saw the Earth from space, in all its ineffable beauty and fragility, did I realize that humankind’s most urgent task is to cherish and preserve it for future generations.”

The post Different Ways of Green Travel in India from Kashmir to Kanyakumari appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

Himachal Pradesh, a north Indian state, is the ultimate destination for romance, relaxation and rejuvenation in the Himalayas. It is a gateway to the world of adventure too. The valleys and hill stations of Himachal Pradesh are not just summer retreats but also adventure hotspots. They become camping grounds with ample room for adventure activities from March to September. Those who feel drawn to the enigmatic beauty of the Himalayas fly to India for camping in Himachal. It drives Indian Eagle to list the most popular Himalayan sites for camping.

Chail

Chail is more adventurous than Shimla for camping in the Himalayas. Situated at an altitude of 2,250 meters above the sea level, Chail is only 45 kms away from Shimla. The landscape of this Himalayan camping site is dotted with soaring deodars. Chail is not only known as a hill station with a thick cover of greenery but also famous for the cricket ground that is the highest in the world. This Himalayan destination for camping is a must visit for nature lovers too.

Shimla

Shimla is one of the few Himalayan hill stations where romance and adventure go hand in hand. Shimla, the summer capital of the British Raj and the present capital of Himachal Pradesh, is ideal for camping in North India. The idyllic landscape, rugged terrains and pleasant weather of Shimla fetch hundreds of youngsters for camping and trekking every summer. Shogi, Mashobra, Summwe Hill and Fagu are some of the hot spots for camping in Shimla.

Nahan

Nahan in Solan at an altitude of 932 meters above from the sea level is one of the best summer camping destinations in the Himalayas. Nahan is a picturesque town with clean streets and glimpses of natural beauty hanging all around. Karan Prakash, the King of Solan had laid out the foundation brick of Nahan in 1621. The town boasts a pleasing climate throughout the year. There is a beautiful artificial lake on the camping site in Nahan.

Manali

Manali is a wonderful summer retreat and an adventuresome camping spot. One of the most popular summer tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh, North India, Manali is a must stop on the National Highway to Leh in Ladakh District. It is one of the few places to find beauty in adventure. Manali is a must-visit summer camping resort town with snowcapped peaks, the meandering Beas River, fruit orchards, lush green landscape, and rolling fields.

Kullu

Kullu is a 40-km long drive from Manali on the way to Leh. A resort holiday destination with snow-covered peaks, Kullu is a favorite of trekkers and campers. It is equally popular for sightseeing and adventure. The season of camping in Kullu spans from April to June and from mid-September to mid-October. Kullu has several trails in the Himalayan range.

Sangla Valley

Sangla Valley is one of the lesser-known camping destinations in the Himalayan region. Situated at an altitude of 2600 meters from the sea level, the valley is towered by the huge Kinner Kailash peak. The zigzag slopes of Sangla Valley are flooded by the beauty of cedar, pine, walnut, apple and apricot trees. The picturesque hamlets with wooden walls make Sangla Valley a remarkable spot for nature photography too.

Dalhousie

Named after its founder, the British Viceroy Lord Dalhousie, Dalhousie is a most popular Himalayan hill station with adventuresome camping spots. Nestled on the western end of Dhauladhar, Dalhousie fetches not only domestic travelers but also foreign tourists. Raw natural beauty of the lush green landscape dotted with pine, cedar and deodar trees is the best bait of Dalhousie to adventurers, photographers and nature lovers. Dalhousie is the only place in Himachal to offer soulful views of the horizon where the sky and earth embrace each other.

Dharamsala

Camping in Dharamsala is an adventure in the lap of nature. Dharamsala, a Himalayan hill station in Himachal Pradesh, offers multiple opportunities for active camping. March to mid-September is the best time camping in Dharamsala.

IndianEagle.com is the only online travel booking portal to offer guaranteed lowest airfare for trips to India. There is special discount on booking of flights for trekkers, nature lovers, photographers and adventurers this summer.

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We often halt at the pictures of Indian summer destinations such as Kashmir, Ladakh, Shimla, Manali, Kullu, Goa and Munnar on Google, Facebook, Flickr, Pinterest and Instagram. But we hardly move beyond some common expressions – ‘wow’, ‘amazing’, ‘if I were there’, ‘mind-blowing’, ‘beautiful’, etc. We keep sitting on the couch and repeating these exclamations. Many take fancy to a product but don’t pick up it until it is endorsed by their favorite stars or style icons. The same is true about passive travelers. IndianEagle lists some summer destinations which have been filmed multiple times in popular Bollywood movies, in a bid to activate you for a summer trip to India.

Goa – the most youthful summer retreat

Goa began riding the waves of popularity with youngsters, lovebirds and honeymooners in 2001 when Dil Chahta Hai, a Bollywood blockbuster, had hit the screens. Goa boasts the fame of being a favorite haunt of the youth in summer, spring and winter. The story of three friends’ journey to Goa and their fun indulgences in Dil Chahta Hai there is inspirational even today. Since 2001, Goa has been a prime shooting location of many Bollywood films. Goa is mild and pleasant in summers unlike other beach destinations in India. What is the most fascinating about Goa is bohemian ambience.

Manali – the best place for romance in summer

Does the idea of romance in summer and that too in India repel you? Indian Eagle recommends a trip to the hill stations of Himachal Pradesh. Shimla, Manali, Kullu, Dharamsala and Dalhousie are among the best tourist destinations where summer is a stranger. Blessed by the Himalayas, Shimla and Manali are safe from the fury of the sun even in the thick of summer. Several Bollywood films of different genres, to say Mani Ratnam’s Roja and Ayan Mukherjee’s Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, have been shot in the snowy worlds of Himachal Pradesh. So don’t worry! Summer won’t dare to spoil your mood for romance in Manali, Shimla or Kullu.

Kashmir – the coolest place in summer 

Kashmir hit the headlines for heavy snowfalls a few days back. Just imagine how cool Kashmir is in summers! It is not only the crown of India but also the summer paradise in the country. Nestled amidst snow-capped mountains, this northernmost region wakes up to the soft and smiling sun, whereas summer is fuming in other parts of the country. In Kashmir, the sunrays make the snowy surface on ground glitter like a sheet of white gold and make the atmosphere feel pleasant instead of heating it. If you find our eloquent praise of Kashmir as the best summer retreat, watch the video of the song ‘Jiya re jiya re’ in the music album of Yash Chopra’s Jab Tak Hai Jaan.

Besides the popularity of these summer haunts, the cheapest flight to India is another reason why we are all set to motivate you for summer trips. Unbelievable? Why not check it on our website IndianEagle.com!

The post These Bollywood Movies Inspire to Visit Best Indian Summer Destinations appeared first on Travel to India, Cheap Flights to India, Aviation News, India Travel Tips.

India recreated the history of transportation and communication yesterday, which had begun with the first railway service between Bombay and Thane in 1853. The historic steam engine from the bygone British era has been brought back on the Kalka-Shimla heritage track in Himachal Pradesh. A wonder of engineering technology, the locomotive KC 520 dating back to 1905 boasts a rich history of 109 years.

The Kalka Shimla railway track is one of the rail lines laid out through the precarious regions in India. The UNESCO World Heritage Site list has incorporated it as one of the marvels in the country. The locomotive KC 520, the narrow gauge steam engine, took more than one hour to revive the 22-km long journey along the track after a long period of time.

The steam engine-driven train was put on track under the care of the Indian Railway and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). IRCTC is a wing of the Indian Railways. Two chartered coaches of the locomotive KC 520 train were booked for foreign tourists for INR 96,000. The coal-fired steam locomotive was launched by the Indian Railways in February 2013, for the first time.

Two or three coaches of the locomotive KC 520 train can be hired on one-time rent by individuals for a family holiday or by corporates for official trips. The collective space of two or three coaches is enough to accommodate up to 40 passengers. The passengers will be served delectable food on board as per the hospitality service.

The steam locomotives used to carry the British to and from Shimla, which had the distinction of being the summer capital of India during the British rule. The narrow gauge steam engines were replaced with diesel engines from 1952 onwards. The locomotive KC 520 is a witness to the 150-year old history of Shimla. Now Shimla is the summer capital of Himachal Pradesh, the only Indian state which is mostly famous for its snow-covered, beautiful hill stations.

The British-era steam engine’s back to operations is part of the tourism development plan, undertaken and implemented to increase the number of domestic and foreign footfalls in Himachal Pradesh. Besides, the Kalka-Shimla track offers one of the most wonderful mountain railway journeys in India. It was inaugurated by Lord Curzon, the then British Viceroy.

IndianEagle.com can make your dream of a wonderful Shimla trip come true by booking your cheapest flight to India this summer.

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