If you still haven’t figured out your Christmas holiday plans, you need to hurry up! And if you need travel inspiration, we can tell you about India! This magical country has lot going on during the Christmas time; read on!

Goa

Goa is a vivacious Indian state with Portuguese legacy and a considerable Christian population, inviting tourists from all over the world to come and celebrate a balmy yet traditional Christmas holiday here. From the night long parties on the beaches and the cocktails in casinos and bars to the cathedrals decorated with lights and flowers and the midnight masses in churches, there’s nothing like a Goan Christmas. Basilica of Bom Jesus, Santa Cruz Church and Se Cathedral are some of the best churches to visit in Goa during the season.

Kerala

With countless churches scattered all over the southern Indian state, Kerala ensures a wonderful Christmas holiday experience for all. The backwaters and swaying coconut trees add more grace to the festival celebrations here. People enjoy midnight masses and Christmas plays, have bonfires on beaches and try local feasts for a traditional experience. The Cochin Carnival which is held every year during the last two weeks in December is a major tourist draw.

Mumbai

‘Bollywood’ Mumbai is another terrific Indian city where the best of Christmas celebrations can be enjoyed. The fancy Christmas trees on the sidewalks, the delicious scent of fruit cakes and date rolls, and lights, music and smiles all around bring a true festival feel in the city. While all the churches in Mumbai organise midnight masses, the raging parties in the night clubs ensure you have an exciting Christmas holiday here. Hill Road, Bandra and Church Gate are some of the popular places to explore in Mumbai during Christmas.

Kolkata

Kolkata is another city to enjoy wonderful Christmas celebrations. The popular thoroughfare in the city, Park Street comes to life with strings of lights and other decorations during the season. The street is lined with bars and pubs where you can dance to your favourite tracks all night long. You can try a wide range of Christmas cakes and treats at Flury’s, an elegant design tearoom located on the street. Kolkata Christmas Festival organised by West Bengal Tourism is another attraction. St. Paul’s Cathedral, Basilica of Bom Jesus and St. Philomena’s Cathedral are some of the best churches to visit in the city.

Delhi

Delhi is popular for its unique festive celebrations; and Christmas is one of the biggest festivals celebrated here with enthusiasm. Sacred Heart Cathedral, the most popular church in the capital city at Connaught Place is an ideal place to attend a midnight mass. The entire Connaught Place area comes to life with glittering lights and food stalls during the season. You can also attend theme parties at clubs and bars scattered all around the city and enjoy special decorations and discounts at the malls.

Coimbatore, the busy business hub of southern India, is close to some of the most famous travel destinations of this part of the country such as Ooty. Known as ‘Manchester of India’ for its textile industry, Coimbatore also presents a fine blend of cultural heritage and cosmopolitan lifestyle. There’s a lot to explore and enjoy here. Read on to know more!

Watch the sunset at Valankulam Lake

If you wish to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and seek few relaxed moments amidst the beauty of nature, you can head to Valankulam Lake, one of the finest lakes in Coimbatore. It is an ideal place to spend an entire day with your family and friends. It is also a great spot to enjoy the evening sunset. Moreover, you can spot different species of birds including Little Grebes, and Purple Moorhen flying over the lake.

Enjoy safari at Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary

Named after the former Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary is an incredible tourist spot. People from different parts of the world come here to be part of an exciting wildlife safari even as they explore dry scrub forests, savannah forests, evergreen forests and highlands at high elevations. Get a chance to spot endangered animals like Bengal Tiger, Nilgiri langur, Indian leopard, lion-tailed macaque, Indian giant squirrel, Indian Pangolin and gaur; as well as about 2000 species of plants, and over 250 species of birds.

Explore the beauty of Kovai Kutralam Falls

Another treat for nature lovers, Kovai Kutralam Falls are located 35 kilometres from the city and capture the attention with its white waters, descending from a great height. These falls are situated amidst dense forests and present a thrilling experience for the explorers. Not surprisingly, large crowds visit this beautiful spot to enjoy this natural feature and stunning views of the surroundings.

Go shopping at Brookefields & Fun Mall

Famed as one of the major industrial cities in India, Coimbatore is a shopping haven in South India. You can have a world-class shopping experience in the city with a wide array of luxury as well as local shopping options. Brookefields and Fun Mall are among the most popular shopping venues in the city. Besides, you can explore markets at Oppanakara Street, Ranga Gounder Street and Raja Street to shop for handicrafts, fabrics and handloom saris.

Discover fun at Black Thunder Amusement Park

A family holiday in Coimbatore is incomplete without a visit to the Black Thunder Amusement Park. This theme based amusement park is an adventure haven with around 50 thrilling rides for all age groups. Situated on the foothills of Nilgiri Mountains at Mettupalayam, the park is easily accessible and witnesses huge crowds all throughout the year. While there is no end to fun here, an array of accommodation and dining options makes this place even more popular among the visitors.

Diwali is one of the biggest and brightest festivals of India, celebrated all over the country with great enthusiasm. Different parts of the country have different traditions and to be in the country around the festival, which usually takes place in October-November, is a nice opportunity to enjoy the many aspects of it. Read on and find out for yourself!

Discover the sparkling lights of Jaipur

The glow of lights and lamps, adorning homes and shops and the streets, is the essence of Diwali and the “Pink City” Jaipur is a terrific place to see it all. Not just the buildings even the street markets are lit up beautifully; in fact, a competition for the best decorated market is held every year on Diwali! Johari Bazaar, one of the famous markets of the city, is also known as “The Strip” when the festival comes up and attracts large crowds during the time.

Treat your eyes to fireworks over the Ganges in Varanasi

Varanasi is an ancient Indian city renowned for its great religious and cultural wealth. But it is during the time around Diwali when this wonderful city seems to be illuminating literally in the radiance of traditions! Opt for one of the riverside hotels in the city and enjoy a stunning view of the fireworks over the Ganges River from the comfort of your room. Besides, you can attend the special Ganga Aarti and can explore the ghats lit with candles and diyas.

Go shopping at the markets of Delhi

Diwali is a lovely time to be holidaying in the capital city. Along with the wonderful balmy weather, you can enjoy the terrific line-up of treats that sprout up for the locals and visitors during the festival.  A number of special Diwali markets and fairs are organised all over the city. You can explore the famous shopping spot, Dilli Haat that hosts the amazing Diwali Bazaar every year, and can also shop for a range of fine handicrafts at the annual Dastkar Festival of Lights Diwali Mela.

Enjoy gambling and the destruction of Demon Narakasura in Goa

Goa might be more popular as a beach holiday destination but there’s much more to the state that makes it an ideal spot for Diwali holidays. The major Diwali celebration in the state includes the destruction of demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna. Many competitions are held across the villages and cities of Goa for coming up with the scariest image of the demon, which are all burned a day before Diwali. Moreover, you can try your luck at one of the top casinos enjoying gambling, a famous activity that takes place during the festival all over the state.

India is a home to some of world’s most beautiful lakes. The most exquisite of them are perhaps located high in the mountains. Read on and learn about five of the highest lakes in India that you must explore!

Cholamu Lake

The highest lake in India, Cholamu lies in the North Sikkim district and is just 4 kilometres from the Chinese border. Located at a height of 5330 metres, the lake remains relatively and understandably lesser explored. Also known as Tso Lhamo Lake, Cholamu Lake is best explored during the months of March, April, May and June, when the weather is pleasantly warm. Moreover, the lake attracts an array of migratory birds from Russia and China and various parts of the Indian Subcontinent.

Gurudongmar Lake

Located at an altitude of 17,800 feet in Sikkim, Gurudongmar Lake is the second highest lake in India. Named after Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, the lake is considered sacred by the Buddhists, Hindus and Sikhs. It is very close to the south Tibetan (Chinese) border and remains frozen throughout the winter season.

Pangong Lake

A 134 km long, endorheic lake, Pangong extends from India to China and witnesses huge crowds of tourists. Lying in the Himalayas, the lake is 5kms wide at its broadest point and appeals to all eyes with its picturesque beauty. The ever-changing colours of the lake make it one of the most beautiful spots in the country. It is a 5-hour drive from Leh, one of the major towns in the state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Tsomgo Lake

Loved by the tourists for its picturesque beauty, Tsomgo Lake is located in the Indian state of Sikkim, around 40 kms away from the capital Gangtok. Also known as Tsongmo Lake or Changu Lake, this glacial lake changes its colour with the change of season and remains frozen during the winter. A large number of tourists choose to explore the lake during their visit to Sikkim and attend the popular Guru Purnima festival that’s celebrated here on a grand scale.

Kedartal Lake

Also known as Kedar Tal Lake and Shiva’s Lake, Kedartal is a glacial lake lying at an altitude of 4,750 metres in the Garhwal region of the Indian Himalayas. It is a popular trekking destination in India due to the thrilling trek opportunities it offers to the visitors. Moreover, it appeals to the visitors with its camping opportunities.

Here are the top ten sacred spots of the Indian Sub Continent, each promising a memorable time to the visitors.

Varanasi, India

Lying on the banks of the River Ganges in North India, Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world and is generally regarded the spiritual capital of India, attracting Hindu pilgrims from all

over the world. New Vishwanath Temple, Kathwala Temple and Kashi Vishwanath are some of the popular Hindu temples here.

Golden Temple, Amritsar

The famous Sikh shrine, Golden Temple is the most renowned tourist attraction of Amritsar,

Punjab. The incredible architecture of the temple and the mesmerising lake attract travellers from all over the world.

Faisal Mosque, Islamabad

Lying at the foot of the Margalla Hills in Islamabad, Faisal Mosque is the largest mosque of Pakistan visited by a large number of tourists every year. It holds the attention with its eclectic

blend of traditional and ultramodern Islamic architectural designs and its Bedouin tent-like shape.

Dambulla Cave Temple, Sri Lanka

With five caves, three statues of Sri Lankan kings and 153 statues of the Lord Buddha, Dambulla Cave Temple is the largest cave temple complex of Sri Lanka. The temple invites Buddhists and

others from all corners of the world. Also known as Jumbukola Vihara, it is situated in the north west of Kandy.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Nepal

Home to several pagoda and shikhara-style temples, Bhaktapur Durbar Square reflects the historical and cultural heritage of Nepal. The most stunning architectural delight of the

Kathmandu Valley and one of the most popular tourist attractions of Nepal, it remains a must visit for all.

Rishikesh, India

Rishikesh is a holy Indian city, well known all over the world – credit goes to the Beatles who used to frequent the city in the late ’60s! It is the yoga capital of the world and features a

distinctive old world charm with many ashrams, temples and yoga institutes. Moreover, the city is famed for offering a number of adventure sports.

Bodh Gaya, India

Bodh Gaya, in the Indian province of Bihar, is one of the most prominent Buddhist pilgrimage sites. It is where the Lord Buddha gained enlightenment under the famous Mahabodhi tree.

Home to dozens of Buddhist temples, monasteries and shrines, it is bustling with pilgrims all throughout the year.

Basilica De Bom Jesus, Goa

A 400-year old church in Goa, Basilica De Bom Jesus has the Baroque architectural style and remains one of the most visited churches in the tiny Indian state. It is home to the mortal

remains of St. Francis Xavier, which are displayed once every ten years.

Dhakeshwari Temple, Dhaka

The national temple of Bangladesh, Dhakeshwari Temple is the primary Hindu temple in the country built by Ballal Sen, the King of the Sena dynasty in the 12^th century. Situated in Old

Dhaka, it has a permanent altar outside the main temple premises which houses four identical structures dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Jama Masjid, Delhi

The largest mosque in India, Jama Masjid was built by Shah Jahan, the Mughal Emperor who built the Taj Mahal. Built in the 17^th century, it is a true Islamic architectural wonder with a

courtyard that can accommodate over 25,000 people, three large gates, four towers and two 40-metre high minarets.

Sikkim, a small state in the land of Himalayas, is lesser visited tourist destination in India but is covered by hidden valleys, snow-fed lakes, mystical monasteries and many more scenic sights. Offering a plethora of varied and unique holiday opportunities for all kinds of travellers, be it adventure enthusiasts or spiritual seekers, this beautiful Indian state is where tourists get to experience an extraordinary culture, and a new world altogether at a very high altitude!
Have a look at some of the top tourist attractions to explore in Sikkim:

Gangtok

The capital and the largest town of Sikkim, Gangtok lies on a cloudy ridge 5,500 feet above sea level presenting a spectacular view of the world’s third highest peak, Mountain Kangchenjunga. It is the main base for tourism in the state where tourists visit to experience the best of trekking, mountaineering and river rafting in River Teesla. Besides, visitors can enjoy good food, stay at amazing hotels and enjoy a buzzing nightlife amidst wonderful environs here in the city.

Nathula Pass

Connecting India with Tibet and lying at 4,310 metres above sea level, Nathula Pass is the best place in Sikkim for trekking. It was once a part of the historic “Silk Road’ and is counted among the world’s highest motorable passes. The border gates of India and China and the Exhibition Centre of the Indian Army are the major draws of Nathula Pass. Here, tourists get the chance to enjoy a number of waterfalls gushing along the way from Gangtok to Nathula and to witness gorgeous snow peaks encircling the area.

Tsomgo Lake

Located 38 km away from Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake is also known as Tsongmo Lake and Changu Lake. Lying at an altitude of 12310 feet, this lake is one of the most picturesque and highest lakes in India encircled by lush green landscape on all sides. This egg-shaped lake is about 1km long and 50 metres deep, and its surface reflects different colours with the change of seasons. Situated on the steep route leading all the way to Nathula Pass, Tsomgo Lake is mostly visited along with Nathula Pass.

Yuksom

A small historical town situated in West Sikkim, Yuksom draws visitors with its scenic landscape and snow-capped mountains. It is also known as the “gateway to Kangchendzongha” and amazes tourists with its Buddhist heritage and monasteries. The town is located at an altitude of 1780 metres and was originally the ancient capital of Sikkim. Famed as the “Meeting place of the Three Lamas”, this town is one of the most peaceful, serene and spiritual places to explore in Sikkim.

Ravangla

Sitting amidst the Maenam and Tendong Hills, Ravangla is a scenic town between Gangtok and Pelling. It captures the attention with its most famed Buddha Park where a towering 130 feet Buddha statue is situated in the lap of manicured gardens. Home to some of the world’s most rare and endangered birds, the town is renowned as a paradise for bird watchers. Besides, the town, being a starting point for the trek to Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, astonishes trekkers from all around.

Within a driving distance from prominent cities of Karnataka like Bangalore and Mysore, Coorg is a beautiful little town drawing leisure travellers from all over the world. Referred to as the Scotland of India, Coorg is certainly a beautiful holiday destination. Here are some of the region’s most popular tourist attractions.

Coffee Plantations

Home to many lush green coffee plantations, Coorg is one of the biggest producers of coffee in India. No coffee lover can afford to miss out on a coffee plantation tour that takes you through the history, and the art of making this terrific beverage. The region is mainly known for its Arabica and Robusta coffee.

Namdroling Nyingmapa Monastery

One of the finest monasteries in India, Namdroling Nyingmapa Monastery is a must-visit in Coorg for all. The major highlights of the monastery are the three 40-feet tall golden statues of Buddha. Home to thousands of monks, lamas and nuns, it is the largest Nyingmapa teaching centre in the world. Don’t forget to enjoy the different Tibetan delicacies and explore handicraft stalls selling artefacts, shawls and costumes.

Nagarhole National Park

Also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, Nagarhole National Park presents an ideal wildlife experience in the southern state of Karnataka. With hills, waterfalls, forests and streams, and home to the majestic tiger, it is indeed a terrific attraction in Coorg. Besides the big cat, sloth bear, the Asiatic elephant and jungle bison are among the animals that can be spotted here. While wildlife enthusiasts would be enamoured by the park’s animal and bird life, nature lovers will be impressed with the dozens of streams and other water bodies.

Raja’s Seat

Located among the densely-covered hills, Raja’s Seat is a seasonal garden of flowers and artificial fountains. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Coorg presenting stunning sunsets and magnificent panoramic views. What makes this place a famous tourist attraction is that it was a favourite spot of the Kings of Kodagu who used to spend time here with their queens while watching the setting sun!

Abbey Falls and Iruppu Falls

These falls are the two biggest waterfalls in Coorg and are abound with supreme splendour and tranquillity, making for ideal picnic spots amidst picturesque settings. The Abbey Falls is set amidst the private coffee plantations layered with thick coffee bushes while the Iruppu Falls is situated near the Nagarhole National Park.