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TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN PUNJAB

1) Harmandir Sahib / Golden Temple, Amritsar
        It is the holiest Gurdwara of Sikhism. The fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan, designed the Harmandir Sahib to be built in the centre of this holy tank, and upon its construction, installed the Adi Granth, the holy scripture of Sikhism, inside the Harmandir Sahib. The construction of Harmandir Sahib was intended to build a place of worship for men and women from all walks of life and all religions to come and worship God equally.

2) Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar
        The 6.5-acre garden site of the massacre is located in the vicinity of Golden Temple complex. It houses a memorial of national importance, established in 1951 by the Government of India, to commemorate the massacre of peaceful celebrators, including unarmed women and children by British forces.

3) Durgiana Temple, Amritsar
        It is also known by other names of Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Durga Tirath and Sitla Mandir, is a premier Hindu temple of Punjab.Though a Hindu temple, its architecture is similar to the Golden Temple of Sikh religion. The original temple is reported to have been built in the 16th century. It was rebuilt in 1921 by Guru Harsai Mal Kapoor in the architectural style of the Sikh Golden Temple.

4) Harike wetland and bird sanctuary
        It is also known as "Hari-ke-Pattan", with the Harike Lake in the deeper part of it, is the largest wetland in northern India.The Punjab Government has introduced in December 2016 an amphibious bus to see the Harike wetland close up, this venture is named Harike Cruise.

5) Mukteshwar Mahadev Temple, Pathankot
        It is a popular shrine of Lord Shiva. There are some caves which date to the time of the Mahabharata. According to a legend, the Pandavas stayed in those caves for a night during their exile (Agayatwas).

6) Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum, Ludhiana
        The Museum displays objects connecting to Maharaja Ranjit Singh such as arms and armour, outstanding paintings and centuries old coins, manuscripts, and jewelry.A huge gallery displays various uniforms of the British era Indian army; air force and navy. The Kargil section has complete information of the Kargil war with a brief history of Kargil, Masokh Valley, Kaksar, etc. This Museum is a tribute to all those lives that were lost for a noble cause.

7) The Doraha Fort, Ludhiana
          It is also known as Mughal Serai, Doraha or Doraha Sarai.Once an example of fine Mughal architecture, this historical serai is in a dilapidated condition due to indifferent attitude of the government.

8) Qila Mubarak, Bathinda
          It is a part of the Bathinda Fort. It was earlier called kuchi-garhi or mud fort. The structure was later given a massive artistic touch. When Babur came in India for the first time, he came here with cannons. Four of them are here in this fort that are made up of an alloy of silver,gold,copper and iron.

9) Fateh Burj Kharar, SAS Nagar
        It is the tallest minar in India situated in the historical village of Chappar Chiri.The 328 ft tower is dedicated to establishment of the Sikh Misls in a large part of India in 1711.

10) Virasat-e-Khalsa, Anandpur Sahib        It is a museum of Sikhism. The museum celebrates 500 years of the Sikh history and the 300th anniversary of the birth of Khalsa, based on the scriptures written by the tenth and last human guru, Guru Gobind Singh.

TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN KERALA

It is known for its palm-lined beaches and backwaters, a network of canals. Inland are the Western Ghats, mountains whose slopes support tea, coffee and spice plantations as well as wildlife. National parks like Eravikulam and Periyar, plus Wayanad and other sanctuaries, are home to elephants, langur monkeys and tigers. Here we present to you top 10 places to visit in Kerala.

1) Fort Kochi Arabs, British, Dutch, Chinese, and Portuguese have all left their mark there. The architecture and historical sites in Fort Kochi attract most of the visitors to the area. This is part of a handful of water-bound regions toward the south-west of the mainland Kochi.

2) Munnar It is a town and hill station located in the Idukki district.The name Munnar is believed to mean "three rivers", referring to its location at the confluence of the Mudhirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundaly rivers. You can see tea being picked and processed, and try fresh tea straight from the gardens. There's even a tea museum.

3) Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple It is the richest Hindu temple in the world. The temple is built in an intricate fusion of the indigenous Kerala style and the Dravidian style of architecture. The principal deity Vishnu is enshrined in the "Anantha Shayanam" posture, the eternal yogic sleep on the serpent Adisheshan.

4) Periyar National Park Periyar is one of the 48 tiger reserves in India. Zealously guarded and efficiently managed reserve is a repository of rare, endemic and endangered flora and fauna and forms the major watershed of two important rivers of Kerala, the Periyar and Pamba.

5) Kerala Backwaters The backwaters in Kerala are a chain of brackish lagoons and lakes lying parallel to the Arabian Sea coast.Houseboat or Kettuvallam rides in the backwaters are a major tourist attraction. Backwater tourism is centered mostly around Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam. Boat races held during festival seasons are also a major tourist attraction in the backwater regions.

6) Chembra Peak It is the highest peak in Wayanad.Permission from the forest office in Meppadi is required for trekking up to Chembra Peak. A heart shaped lake on the way to the top of the peak is a major tourist attraction. The lake is believed to have never dried up.

7) Athirappilly Waterfalls It is the largest waterfall in Kerala and is nicknamed "The Niagara of India". Forest wildlife in the area includes the Asiatic elephant, tiger, leopard, bison, sambar, and lion-tailed macaque.The falls attract visitors from across India, especially during the monsoon months (June–September). About 7 million tourists visit the falls and the Vazhachal picnic spot each year.

8) Varkala Beach It is also known as Papanasham Beach. The word Papanasham means wash away sins. It is believed that a dip in the waters of Papanasham Beach washes away all the sins in one's life.

9) Santa Cruz Basilica The basilica serves as the Cathedral church of the Diocese of Cochin. Counted as one of the heritage edifices of Kerala, this church is one of the finest and most impressive churches in India and visited by tourists the whole year round. It is a place of devotion as well as a center of historic significance, endowed with architectural and artistic grandeur and colors of the Gothic style.

10) Bekal Fort It is the largest fort in Kerala, situated at Bakel village in Kasaragod district.An important features of this fort is the water-tank with its flight of steps. The fort has a tunnel opening towards the south and a magazine for keeping ammunition with broad steps leading to the Observation Tower. From there one has an ample view of towns in the vicinity like Kanhangad, Pallikkara, Bekal, Kottikkulam, and Uduma.

TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN SHILLONG

Shillong has been called as the 'Scotland of the East'. This is because of its aesthetic, graceful and picturesque landscapes. The city is bestowed with some quintessential sightseeing facilities like the Ward Lake or the Botanical Garden. But what holds attention of the tourists are the waterfalls in and around Shillong. Among them the Elephant Falls of Meghalaya holds the prime attention. Here we present to you top 10 places to visit in Shillong.

1) Elephant Falls

It is a combination of 3 rivers. One of the British officers named it as Elephant falls after they saw a rock which resembled as an elephant. The falls are surrounded with green vegetation that provides a perfect backdrop.

2) The Don Bosco Museum

It is part of DBCIC (Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures). DBCIC comprises research on cultures, publications, training, animation program and the museum, which is a place of knowledge-sharing on the cultures of the northeast in particular, and of culture in general.

3) Shillong Golf Course

It enjoys the rare distinction of being one of the few natural golf courses in Asia. Not only is the Shillong Golf Course scenic and enjoyable, it is also challenging. A group of British civil service officers introduced golf to Shillong in 1898 by constructing a nine-hole course. The present 18-hole course was inaugurated in 1924.

4) Laitlum Canyons

One of the least explored place in Shillong. This gorgeous place will provide you a panoramic view of the Rasong village and grassy valleys. This is a must visit destination.

5) Motphran

The “Stone of France” which is locally known as "Motphran" was erected in memory of the 26th Khasi Labour Corps who served under the British in France during World War I. It bears the words of the famous Latin poet Horace "Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori" which can be roughly translated as "It is sweet and fitting to die for one's country."

6) David Scott Trail

The stretch between Ladmawphlang village to Mawphlang village is roughly 16 kms long and is a picturesque day hike. This was originally the horse-cart road that connected the plains of Slyhet (now in Bangladesh) to Assam. Camps can be set to treat the eyes to the stunning views of lush rugged Umiam valley.

7) Ward's Lake

A beautiful manmade lake named after Sir William Ward, the then, Chief Commissioner of Assam. Also known as the Polok Lake, it is an artificial lake with garden and boating facilities.

8) Cathedral Catholic Church

In the heart of the city, there stands a beautiful cathedral of Roman Catholics dedicated to Mary Help of Christian. The Cathedral is the principal place of worship of the over 300,000 strong Catholics of the Shillong Archdiocese which covers the Khasi and Jaiñtia Hills of Meghalaya

9) Shillong Peak

It offers a panoramic view of the scenic countryside and is the highest point in the state. Obeisance is paid to U Shulong at the sanctum sanctorum at the peak's summit every springtime, by the religious priest of Mylliem State.

10) Lady Hydari Park

A popular spot both with locals and tourist, it is located in the heart of the city with an abundance of plants and flowers. The best months to see the flowers in bloom are April and October. The park stretches over a kilometer and has an adjacent mini zoo.

TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN SIKKIM

It is bordered by Bhutan, Tibet and Nepal. Part of the Himalayas, the area has a dramatic landscape that includes India’s highest mountain, 8,586m Kangchenjunga. Sikkim is also home to glaciers, alpine meadows and thousands of varieties of wildflowers. Steep paths lead to hilltop Buddhist monasteries such as Pemayangtse, which dates to the early 1700s.

1) Nathu La, Gangtok

It connects the Indian state of Sikkim with China's Tibet Autonomous Region. The pass, at 4,310 m (14,140 ft) above mean sea level, forms a part of an offshoot of the ancient Silk Road. Nathu means "listening ears" and La means "pass" in Tibetan. Nathu La is one of the three open trading border posts between China and India; the others are Shipkila in Himachal Pradesh and Lipulekh (or Lipulech) at the trisection point of Uttarakhand–India, Nepal and China.

2) Buddha Park, Ravangla

It is also known as Tathagata Tsal and is situated near Rabong (Ravangla) in South Sikkim district. It was constructed between 2006 and 2013 and features a 130-foot high statue of the Buddha as its centerpiece. The site was chosen within the larger religious complex of the Rabong Gompa (Monastery), itself a centuries-old place of pilgrimage. Also nearby is Ralang Monastery, a key monastery in Tibetan Buddhism

3) Yumesamdong (Zero Point), Lachung

Situated at an altitude of 15,300 ft. above Mean Sea Level, Yumesamdong or Zero point is nature personified. It is a place very close to the Indo Chinese border.The best time of the year to visit this place is between March - April.

4) Tsongmo Lake, Gangtok

Located at an elevation of 3,753 m (12,313 ft), the lake remains frozen during the winter season. The lake surface reflects different colours with change of seasons and is held in great reverence by the local Sikkimese people. Tourist attractions at the lake site include joy rides on decorated yaks and mules where kiosks offer variety of food and drinks. There is also a small Shiva temple on the bank of the lake.

5) Gurudongmar Lake

It is one of the highest lakes in the world, located at an altitude of 17,800 ft. The lake is named after Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, founder of Tibetan Buddhism who visited the lake in the 8th century.The lake fed by glaciers is located to the north of the Kanchenjunga range in a high plateau area connected with the Tibetan Plateau.

6) Ranka Monastery, Gangtok

The monastery follows the Zurmang Kagyud lineage of Buddhism and under the direction of the 12th successor of the lineage Zurmang Gharwang Rinpoche. It's surrounded by forested mountains in all sides. The entire place is done in bright colours, which is surely going to catch your attention the moment you enter this place.

7) Kanchenjunga Falls, Pelling

At a distance of 25 km from Pelling, the Kanchenjunga Falls is a perennial waterfall. If you are a nature-lover, this waterfall is a must-visit for you. Locals say it is fed by streams originating from the glaciers near the base of Mount Kanchenjunga the 3rd highest peak in the world.

8) Rumtek Monastery

It is also called the Dharmachakra Centre, Originally built under the direction of Changchub Dorje, 12th Karmapa Lama in the mid-1700s, Rumtek served as the main seat of the Karma Kagyu lineage in Sikkim for some time. But when Rangjung Rigpe Dorje, 16th Karmapa, arrived in Sikkim in 1959 after fleeing Tibet, the monastery was in ruins. With the generosity and help of the Sikkim royal family and the local folks of Sikkim, it was built by the 16th Karmapa as his main seat in exile.

9) Himalayan Zoological Park, Gangtok

Himalayan Zoological Park is certainly a place for wildlife lovers in Sikkim. The Park has been established, to preserve the wildlife, without disturbing the creatures and keeping them in their natural habitat. Located in Bulbuley, Himalayan Zoological Park is at a distance of 3 km from Gangtok.

10) Samdruptse Hill, Ravangla

The statue in Namchi is the tallest statue of the saint in the world at 120 ft. In the Bhutia local language, the term ‘Samdruptse’means the ‘Wish Fulfilling Hill’. The name of the sacred place says it clearly that it is highly revered and equally popular amid devotees and tourists.

TEN BOLLYWOOD SUICIDE CASES

1) Divya Bharti The young actress left the entire industry at shock with her tragic death, in 1993, at the age of 19. Plenty of conspiracy theories have been floating around about the actual reason for her death, and it still remains unanswered as to whether she had actually committed suicide or had fallen by accident. 2) Guru Dutt A deteriorating relationship with his wife Geeta Dutt, and a failed relationship with actress Waheeda Rehman was what allegedly led the iconic actor and director to take his own life, on October 10, 1964. He died by taking a combination of sleeping pills with alcohol. 3) Jiah Khan Best known for her role in the film Nishabd, opposite Amitabh Bachchan, Jiah Khan was found hanging in her apartment in Juhu, Mumbai on June 3, 2013. The British-American actress, model and singer had been dating actor Sooraj Pancholi at the time of her death, and her mother blames the actor for having driven her to take her life. 4) Parveen Babi The yesteryear sultry actress was found dead in her apartment in the year 2005. The lonely star who had kept to herself was discovered after neighbours complained that she hadn’t come out to collect the newspaper and milk from her doorstep. Parveen, who was struggling with diabetes, had apparently starved herself to death. 5) Kunal Singh Best known for his role opposite Sonali Bendre in the movie Dil Hi Dil Mein, Kunal Singh committed suicide by hanging himself from the ceiling fan. Though he was doing well in Bhojpuri and south Indian movies, his strained relationship with his wife and the fact that he was not allowed to see his kids were rumoured to be the reasons for his suicide. 6) Viveka Babaji This beautiful model rose to fame with her Kamasutra ad. She committed suicide in the year 2010 by hanging herself from the ceiling fan. Failed career and relationships were cited as reasons for her suicide. 7) Manmohan Desai He was the son of film producer and owner of Paramount Studios (Filmalaya) Kikubhai Desai. His wife passed away in 1979, and in 1992 he got engaged to actress Nanda, an engagement which continued till his death in 1994. He had tasted the pinnacle of success with his movies being acclaimed hits with the Indian masses. He made masala movies and is credited with helping Amitabh Bachchan rise to fame with movies like ‘Amar Akbar Anthony’, ‘Coolie’ and ‘Mard’. Towards the end of his career, his movies were not doing good at the box office. Desai was also suffering from acute and chronic back pain. In March 1994, he jumped from the balcony of his flat in Girgaon. 8) Kuljeet Randhawa She was a former Gladrags model, TV show host and actor, Kuljeet Randhawa committed suicide by hanging herself from the ceiling fan at her Juhu apartment on 8 February, 2006. She left behind a note stating that she was unable to cope up with the pressures in her life and so she was committing suicide . 9) Varsha Bhosle Daughter of India’s famous singer Asha Bhosle, Varsha Bhosle shot herself in 2012. Varsha was a professional Hindi and Bhojpuri playback singer as well as a writer. The singer had prior to her fatal suicide, also attempted to kill herself in 2008. Apparently, she had a rough married life which became the cause of her suicide. 10) Reem Kapadia She was actress Dimple Kapadia’s youngest sister and had made an appearance in a few Hindi movies, including ‘Haveli’, where she appeared opposite Rakesh Roshan and Marc Zuber. In 2000, Reem Kapadia apparently committed suicide by overdosing on some drugs while she was staying in London.

TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN TAMILNADU

It is famed for its Dravidian-style Hindu temples. In Madurai, Meenakshi Amman Temple has high ‘gopuram’ towers ornamented with colourful figures. On Pamban Island, Ramanathaswamy Temple is a pilgrimage site. The town of Kanyakumari, at India’s southernmost tip, is the site of ritual sunrises. Capital Chennai is known for beaches and landmarks including 1644 colonial Fort St. George. Here we present to you top 10 places to visit in Tamil Nadu.

1) Meenakshi temple

It is dedicated to Parvati, known as Meenakshi, and her consort, Shiva, here named Sundareswarar. The temple has a 1000 pillar hall, 14 towers with remarkable art, architecture and painting. At least 15,000 visitors visit these temples regularly which include both Indians and Foreigners.

2) Brihadeeswarar Temple

It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva located in Thanjavur. It is one of the largest temples in India and is an example of Tamil architecture during the Chola period. The temple is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "Great Living Chola Temples", with the other two being the Brihadeeswarar Temple, Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Airavatesvara temple.

3) Vivekananda Rock Memorial

It is a popular tourist monument in Vavathurai and was built in 1970 in honour of Swami Vivekananda who is said to have attained enlightenment on the rock. The memorial consists of two main structures, the Vivekananda Mandapam and the Shripada Mandapam.

4) Nilgiri Mountain Railway

In July 2005, UNESCO added the Nilgiri Mountain Railway as an extension to the World Heritage Site of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, the site then became known as "Mountain Railways of India". The 'Nilgiri Passenger' train covers a distance of 26 km, travels through 208 curves, 16 tunnels and across 250 bridges. The uphill journey takes around 290 minutes (4.8 hours), and the downhill journey takes 215 minutes (3.6 hours) It has the steepest track in Asia with a maximum gradient of 8.33%.

5) Marina Beach

The beach runs from near Fort St. George in the north to Foreshore Estate in the south, a distance of 6.5 km . Bathing and swimming at the Marina Beach are legally prohibited because of the dangers, as the undercurrent is very turbulent. It is one of the most crowded beaches in the country and attracts about 30,000 visitors a day during weekdays.

6) Udagamandalam (Ooty)

Popularly known as Ooty situated in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is the most popular Hill station in South India. It provides a scenic view of Nilgiri Hills. The town is connected to the rest of India by road and the popular Nilgiri Mountain Railway, and its historic sites and natural beauty attract tourists from all over the country.

7) Madras Crocodile Bank Trust

The centre is the biggest crocodile sanctuary in India. It was established with the aim of saving three Indian endangered species of crocodile—the marsh or mugger crocodile, the saltwater crocodile, and the gharial, which at the time of founding of the trust were all nearing extinction. As of 2011, the CrocBank had a total of 2,483 animals, including 14 species of crocodiles, 10 species of turtles, 3 species of snakes, and 1 species of lizard.

8) Descent of the Ganges (Mahabalipuram)

Measuring 96 by 43 feet (29 m × 13 m), it is a giant open-air rock relief carved on two monolithic rock boulders. The legend depicted in the bas-relief is the story of the descent of the sacred river Ganges to earth from the heavens led by Bhagiratha. The waters of the Ganges are believed to possess supernatural powers.

9) Kodaikanal

The hill station of Kodaikanal is fast gaining reputation for its unspoilt beauty and soothing climate. It is known by the nickname "Princess of Hill stations". The lakes, parks and different waterfalls along with the rich abundance of flora and fauna, this place is indeed a gift of the forest.

10) Mudumalai National Park

It shares its boundaries with the states of Karnataka and Kerala. The sanctuary is divided into five ranges – Masinagudi, Thepakadu, Mudumalai, Kargudi and Nellakota. The protected area is home to several endangered and vulnerable species including Indian elephant, Bengal tiger, gaur and Indian leopard. There are at least 266 species of birds in the sanctuary, including critically endangered Indian white-rumped vulture and long-billed vulture.

TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN TRIPURA

It is a hilly state in northeast India, bordered on 3 sides by Bangladesh and home to a diverse mix of tribal cultures and religious groups. In the capital Agartala, the imposing Ujjayanta Palace is set among Mughal gardens, and Gedu Mia’s Mosque has white marble domes and towers. South of the city, Neermahal summer palace sits in the middle of Lake Rudrasagar and blends Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. Here is a list of top 10 places to visit in Tripura.

1) Ujjayanta Palace, Agartala

The palace was constructed between 1899 and 1901 by the Tripura king, Maharaja Radha Kishore Manikya, and stands on the banks of a small lake surrounded by Mughal gardens. It was the home of the ruling Manikya dynasty until the Tripura`s accession to India in October 1949. The palace was purchased from the royal family by the Tripura government in 1972-73 for Rs. 2.5 million, and was used to house the state legislative assembly until July 2011. Ujjayanta Palace is now a state museum and it showcases the lifestyle, arts, culture, tradition and utility crafts of communities residing in northeast India.

2) Neermahal, Melaghar

Known as ‘lake palace’ of Tripura, Neer-Mahal was constructed as a summer residence. It was Maharaja Bir Bikram Manikya Bahadur’s idea to build a palace in the beautiful Rudrasagar lake and in 1921 he accredited the British company Martin and Burns to construct the palace for him. The company took nine years to complete the work.

3) Sipahijola Wildlife Sanctuary, Bishalgarh

It is a woodland with an artificial lake and natural botanical and zoological gardens. It is famous for its clouded leopard enclosures. The sanctuary contains a variety of birds, primates, and other animals. The terrain is green throughout the year and the weather is temperate except for the two humid summer months of March and April. It gives shelter to about 150 species of birds and the unique bespectacled monkey, Phayre's langur.

4) Tripura Sundari Temple, Udaipur

Popularly known as Matabari, crowns in a small hillock and is served by the red-robed priests who traditionally, minister to the mother goddess Tripura Sundari. Considered to be one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, consists of a square type sanctum of the typical Bengali hut. It is believed that Sati's right foot fell here during Lord Shiva's Dance.

5) Mahamuni, Manubankul village

A beautiful pagoda was also built at Mahamuni. A famous week long fair is held every year in the month of March-April. The Temple attracts thousands of Buddhist and non Buddhist pilgrims from every corner of the state as well as from neighbouring countries like, Myanmar, Thailand, Srilanka and Bangladesh.

6) Gunabati Temples,Udaipur

It reveals that it was built in the name of Her Highness Maharani Gunabati (Wife of Maharaja Govinda Manikya), in 1668 A.D. The two other temples also bear contemporary look but their actual history is still to be unveiled. Architecture of these temples resembles other contemporary temples of Tripura except that the topmost parts are without Stupa.

7) Unakoti, Kailasahar

It means one less than a crore and it is said that these many rock cut carvings are available here. As per Hindu mythology, when Lord Shiva was going to Kashi along with one crore gods and goddesses he made a night halt at this location. He asked all the gods and goddesses to wake up before sun rise and proceed for Kashi.It is said that in the morning, except Shiva himself, no one else could get up so Lord Shiva set out for Kashi himself cursing the others to become stone images. As a result we have one less than a crore stone images and carvings at Unakoti.

8) Heritage Park, Agartala

Entrance to the park has an imposing gate, which depicts the rich tribal and nontribal cultural heritage of Tripura. The park has three parts, viz. (i) mini-Tripura located in about three acre of land at the entrance (ii) central area being raised as natural forest and (iii) a plain table land with medicinal plants, herbs and shrubs. There is also a walking track of 1.1 kilometer running along the periphery of the park.

9) Kamala Sagar Lake

A vast lake on the edge of the border with Bangladesh was excavated by Maharaja Dhanya Manikya in 15th century. On the river bank of kamalasagar, there is a famous temple of Goddess Kali dating back to 16th century. It is one of the excellent picnic spots in the state with scenic beauty. A mela is held here every October during the Navaratri festival.

10) Jampui Hill

The average altitude of the hill range is approximately 1000 meters above sea level, The view of rising and setting sun from various view points in Jampui hills is a wonderful sight for the tourists. This hill has 11 villages which are occupied by various tribes that gives tourists a chance to see preserved life and tradition of tribal people.

TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN UTTAR PRADESH

It is a state in northern India. Its city of Agra is home to the iconic Taj Mahal monument, a colossal, domed, white-marble mausoleum honouring the wife of 17th- century Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Nearby are the red-brick walls of Agra Fort, a fortified palace dating to the 16th and 17th centuries. Capital Lucknow has Muslim memorial shrines Bara Imambara and calligraphy-adorned Chota Imambara. Here we present to you top 10 places to visit in Uttar Pradesh.

1) Taj mahal, Agra

It is an ivory-white marble mausoleum on the south bank of the Yamuna river. It was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan (reigned 1628–1658), to house the tomb of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The tomb is the centrepiece of a complex nearly 17 hectares (42 acres) in area, which includes a mosque and a guest house, and is set in formal gardens bounded on three sides by a crenelated wall.

2) Triveni sangam, Allahabad

It is the "confluence" of three rivers, the point of confluence is a sacred place for Hindus. A bath here is said to flush away all of one's sins and free one from the cycle of rebirth. A place of religious importance and the site for historic Kumbh Mela held every 12 years.

3) Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi

It is one of the most famous Hindu temples and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple stands on the western bank of the holy river Ganga, and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest of Shiva temples. The main deity is known by the name Vishvanatha or Vishveshvara meaning Ruler of The Universe. The Varanasi city is also called Kashi, and hence the temple is popularly called Kashi Vishvanath Temple.

4) Bara Imambara shrine & Rumi Darwaza gate, Lucknow

It is also called the Asafi Imambara. Bara means big, and an imambara is a shrine built by Shia Muslims for the purpose of Azadari. The complex also includes the large Asfi mosque, the bhul-bhulaiya (the labyrinth), and bowli, a step well with running water.

5) Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi, Mathura

It is a temple, The temple is built around the prison cell where the ancient Hindu god Lord Krishna is said to have been born. The original temple was built by Vajranabha, then later rebuilt by Vikramaditya. The temple is said to have been destroyed and rebuilt 17 times in its history. Today the temple is one of the most frequently visited temples in India.

6) Agra Fort, Agra

It is the former imperial residence of the Mughal Dynasty. The fort can be more accurately described as a walled city. Agra Fort was originally a brick fort known as Badalgarh, the present-day structure was built by the Mughals.

7) Assi Ghat, Varanasi

It is the southernmost Ghat in Varanasi, where pilgrims bathe before paying their homage to Lord Shiva in the form of huge lingam situated under a peepal tree. Hindus believe that it was at Assi Ghat that Tulsidas had written the much-celebrated Ramcharitmanas and left for his heavenly abode. The ghat accommodates about 22,500 people at once during festivals like Shivratri.

8) Dudhwa National Park

It represents one of the few remaining examples of a highly diverse and productive Terai ecosystem, supporting a large number of endangered species, obligate species of tall wet grasslands and species of restricted distribution.

9) Sarnath

It has been variously known as Mrigadava, Migadāya, Rishipattana and Isipatana throughout its long history. Most of the ancient buildings and structures at Sarnath were damaged or destroyed by the Turks. However, amongst the ruins can be distinguished: Dhamek Stupa, Dharmarajika Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, Mulagandhakuti vihara, Ashoka Pillar, Bodhi tree, Sarnath Archeological Museum and others.

10) Fatehpur Sikri

After his military victories over Chittor and Ranthambore, Akbar decided to shift his capital from Agra to a new location. Here he commenced the construction of a planned walled city, which took the next fifteen years in planning, and construction of a series of royal palaces, harem, courts, a mosque, private quarters and other utility buildings. He named the city Fatehabad, with Fateh, a word of Arabic origin in Persian, meaning "victorious."

TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR

It is a state in northern India, often denoted by the acronym J&K. It is located mostly in the Himalayan mountains, and shares borders with the states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab to the south. Here we present to you top 10 places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir.

1) Pangong Tso, Ladakh

Many films have been shot on this location. During summer, the Bar-headed goose and Brahmini ducks are commonly seen here. The region around the lake supports a number of species of wildlife including the kiang and the Marmot. During winter the lake freezes completely, despite being saline water. It is not part of Indus river basin area and geographically a separate land locked river basin.

2) Vaishno Devi, Katra

Also known as Mata Rani, Trikuta and Vaishnavi, is a manifestation of the Hindu Mother Goddess Mahalakshmi. The Holy Cave attracts millions of devotees every year. In fact, the number of Yatris visiting the Holy Shrine annually now exceeds one crore.

3) Dal Lake, Srinagar

The shore line of the lake, is about 15.5 kilometres (9.6 mi), is encompassed by a boulevard lined with Mughal era gardens, parks, houseboats and hotels. Scenic views of the lake can be witnessed from the shore line Mughal gardens, such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh built during the reign of Mughal Emperor Jahangir.

4) Shalimar Bagh, Srinagar

Also known as Shalimar Garden, Shalimar Bagh, Farah Baksh and Faiz Baksh. The Bagh was built by Mughal Emperor Jahangir for his wife Noor Jahan, in 1619. The Bagh is considered the high point of Mughal horticulture. It is now a public park.

5) Thiksey Monastery, Leh

It is located on top of a hill in Thiksey village, approximately 19 kilometres (12 mi) east of Leh. It is noted for its resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet and is the largest gompa in central Ladakh, notably containing a separate set of buildings for female renunciates that has been the source of significant recent building and reorganization.

6) Gulmarg Gondola, Gulmarg

It boasts Asia's highest and longest cable car project, the Gulmarg Gondola. The two-stage ropeway ferries about 600 people per hour to and from Kongdoori Mountain, a shoulder of nearby Afarwat Peak (4,200 m (13,780 ft)). The ropeway project is a joint venture of the Jammu and Kashmir government and French firm Pomagalski.

7) Nishat Bagh, Srinagar

It is a terraced Mughal garden built on the eastern side of the Dal Lake.‘Nishat Bagh’ is Urdu, which means "Garden of Joy," "Garden of Gladness" and "Garden of Delight". Rising from the edge of the Dal Lake, it has twelve 12 terraces representing twelve Zodiacal signs.

8) Amarnath Temple, Pahalgam

The cave is situated at an altitude of 3,888 m. The shrine forms an important part of Hinduism and is considered to be one of the holiest shrines in Hinduism. The cave is surrounded by snowy mountains. The cave itself is covered with snow most of the year except for a short period of time in summer when it is open for pilgrims.

9) Bahu Fort, Jammu

The fort is a religious place, and within its precincts has a temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali, the presiding deity of Jammu. The temple is known locally as the "Bave Kali Mata temple". Raja Jambu Lochan, when on a hunting trip, witnessed a curious scene of a tiger and a goat drinking water side by side at the same location in the Tawi River, without the tiger attacking. The Raja considered this a divine direction to establish the fort and his new capital here, as the scene he witnessed at this site represented peaceful coexistence. His brother, Bahu Lochan, is credited with building the fort.

10) Shankaracharya Temple, Srinagar

The temple dates back to 200 BC, although the present structure probably dates back to the 9th century AD. It was visited by Adi Shankara and has ever since been associated with him; this is how the temple got the name Shankaracharya. It is also regarded as sacred by Buddhists. The Shiv ling was placed inside during the Sikh period in nineteenth century and it became an active Hindu temple when regular services were conducted.

TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN HIMACHAL PRADESH

It is a northern Indian state in the Himalayas. It's home to scenic mountain towns and resorts such as Dalhousie. Host to the Dalai Lama, Himachal Pradesh has a strong Tibetan presence. This is reflected in its Buddhist temples and monasteries, as well as its vibrant Tibetan New Year celebrations. Here we present to you top 10 places to visit in Himachal Pradesh.

1) The Ridge, Shimla

It is a large open space, located in the heart of Shimla. The Ridge is the hub of all cultural activities of Shimla. It is situated along the Mall Road, which is the famous shopping center of Shimla. Most major places of Shimla like Snowdon, Mall, Jakhoo hill, etc. are connected through the Ridge.

2) Chintpurni, Una

It is a major pilgrimage center and one of the Shakti Peethas in India. When Lord Vishnu severed the burning body of Maa Sati into 51 pieces so that Lord Shiva would calm down and stop his Tandava, the pieces were scattered over various places in the Indian subcontinent. It is believed that Sati’s feet fell at this place and is thus considered one of the most important of the 51 Shakti Peethas.

3) Pin Valley National Park

It is a National park of India located within the Lahaul and Spiti district. With its snow laden unexplored higher reaches and slopes, the Park forms a natural habitat for a number of endangered animals including the snow leopard and Siberian ibex.

4) Kali Ka Tibba, Chail

It has Kali Devi as the main deity. An ancient temple Kali ka Tibba attracts many including locals and also people far off from Chail. Beautiful scenery of the Shivalik Range and the Choor Chandni peak are breathtaking from Kali ka Tibba

5) Rohtang Pass

The pass lies on the watershed between the Chenab and Beas basins. It is a high mountain pass on the eastern Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas.The pass is open from May to November. It is not particularly high or difficult to cross on foot by Himalayan standards, but it has a well-deserved reputation for being dangerous because of unpredictable snowstorms and blizzards.

6) Rashtrapati Niwas, Shimla

It is also known as Viceregal Lodge and is located on the Observatory Hills of Shimla. It was formerly the residence of the British Viceroy of India.The Viceregal Lodge was designed by British architect Henry Irwin and built in the Jacobethan style during the regime of Lord Dufferin. It houses some of the most ancient articles and photographs going back to the times of the British rule in India.

7) Kangra Fort, Kangra

The Kangra Fort was built by the royal Rajput family of Kangra State (the Katoch dynasty), which traces its origins to the ancient Trigarta Kingdom, mentioned in the Mahabharata epic. It is the largest fort in the Himalayas and probably the oldest dated fort in India. It is located 20 kilometers from the town of Dharamsala on the outskirts of the town of Kangra.

8 Hatu Peak, Shimla

It is the highest summit in Shimla. At the top of the peak is a small wooden temple called Hatu temple. According to local belief the famous Hatu Mata temple is the temple of ‘Mandodari’ wife of ‘Ravana’. People come in great number on the first Sunday of Jyeshtha to perform rituals. Goat sacrifice is still in practice near the temple. There is an ancient stove like formation of rocks nearby the temple. Locals believe that it was used by the Pandava brothers to cook their food during Agyaat Vaas.

9) Solang Valley, Manali

Giant slopes of lawn comprise Solang Valley and provide its reputation as a popular ski resort. A few ski agencies offering courses and equipment reside here and operate only during winters. A rope-way was recently opened. The sports most commonly offered are parachuting, paragliding, skating and zorbing.

10) Hidimba Devi Temple, Manali

It is an ancient cave temple dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, wife of Bhima. The temple is surrounded by a cedar forest at the foot of the Himālayas. The sanctuary is built over a huge rock jutting out of the ground which was worshiped as an image of the deity. The structure was built in 1553.

TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN HARYANA

It is a North Indian state surrounding New Delhi on 3 sides. The Yamuna River runs along its eastern border with Uttar Pradesh. Shared with Punjab, the state capital Chandigarh is known for its modernist buildings and grid like street plan designed by Le Corbusier. Its Zakir Hussain Rose Garden features 1,600 species, while its Rock Garden showcases sculptures made with recycled materials.

1) Cyber Hub, Gurgaon

It is India's first integrated food & entertainment destination which is spread over 2 lakh sq ft. Iconic restaurants with International & Indian cuisine, Kids Zone and Amphitheater for live entertainment & performances.

2) Pinjore Gardens, Panchkula

It was created in the 17th century by architect Nawab Fidai Khan during the early reign of his foster brother Aurangzeb (r. 1658-1707). In recent times, it has been renamed as 'Yadavindra Garden' in the memory of Maharaja Yadavindra Singh former of the princely state of Patiala. A restored heritage train has been introduced to visit all the monuments and the gardens in the complex.

3) Sri Krishna Museum, Kurukshetra

It endeavors to present the multifaceted personality of Krishna as narrated in the episodes of Mahabharata and the Bhagvata Purana. The museum has six galleries, three each in two blocks. On display are stone sculptures, bronze castings, leaf etchings, miniature paintings, clay pottery and terracotta artifacts.

4) Heritage Transport Museum, Gurgaon

It showcases the evolution of transportation in India and sets a benchmark in interpretation, exhibition and in communication. As the first private museum of its scale in India, it is conceived as a did active space that engages visitor participation in learning while remaining a family experience. All days of the week except Monday(9:00 AM - 6:00 PM)

5) Feroze Shah's palace and Fort, Hisar

The original town of Hisar was a walled settlement inside the fort with four gates, Delhi gate, Mori gate, Nagauri gate and Talaqi gate. The palace consists of a mosque known as Lat ki Masjid. Lat is a sandstone pillar about 20 feet high and was earlier an Ashokan pillar. The restoration work of the palace started in 1924 and have since been gradually renovated until recent times. The complex has been declared as a Centrally Protected Monument by Archaeological Survey of India.

6) Kingdom of Dreams, Gurgaon

It is India's first live entertainment, theater and leisure destination. It is located in Sector 29, Gurgaon. Spread over 6 acres (24,000 m2) and built at a cost of over Rs. 2 billion, Kingdom of Dreams is run by the Great Indian Nautanki Company (GINC), a joint venture between Apra Group and Wizcraft.

7) iSKATE, Gurgaon

India's first natural ice skating rink and café located in Ambience Mall Gurgaon, Iskate offers a unique experience of leisure and physical activity.The key entertainment elements are in house DJ, state of the art sound and light audio systems, karaoke room, a bar, specialty food and beverage counters and gourmet ice cream parlor.

8) Noormahal, Karnal

Now a hotel, NoorMahal is a luxurious, 5-star property featuring traditional Moghul and Rajputana architecture styles. With this unique combination of traditional royal essence and modern amenities, the NOORMAHAL hotel exudes warmth and comfort for all its guests. Besides the conventional luxuries of a five star hotel, NOORMAHAL also offers many other lavish amenities that makes it one of the most sought after weekend getaways to unwind, relax and enjoy with your family & friends!

9) Brahma Sarovar, Thanesar

According to stories, Lord Brahma created the universe from Kurukshetra after a huge yajna. The sarovar also has a mention in Mahabharata citing its use by Duryodhana as a place for hiding himself under water on the concluding day of the war. It is 3600 feet long and 1500 feet broad and is in the shape of a perfect rectangle. The tanks are especially crowded during solar eclipse, it is believed that a dip during the solar eclipse absolves one of all sins. It is considered as one of the largest man-made ponds.

10) Panipat Museum, Panipat

It highlights the major events that took place for over two hundred years which made Panipat a place of great historical importance. Panipat Museum has been especially established for disseminating information about archaeology, history, art and crafts of Haryana with special emphasis on the Battles of Panipat which marked the turning point in Indian history.

TOP 10 HAUNTED PLACES IN KARNATAKA

1) Haunted Mansion, Bangalore
In St.Marks Road (some of the sources have informed that this mansion was demolished in February 2014).
      This house belonged to two Anglo-Indian sisters, Vera Vaz(80) and her younger sister Dolce Vaz(75) who was murdered in this house in front of her sister by an unknown assailant, it is said that she was buried in the house itself which now stands deserted as nobody wants to live there or buy that property.Many people have claimed to be witness of paranormal activities around here like sounds of piano during night, unexplained noises and even a simple walk around this place would given you an eerie experience.

2) Kastoorbha Medical College, Manipal
        The stairways of the Kastoorbha Medical College is said to be haunted by an unseen person who claims to be trapped in the 8th floor, though the college building doesn’t have an 8th floor.

3) Haunted house, Udupi
        A man who had a good reputation and standing within his community, committed suicide after he found that his son had entered into the field of crime. His soul was so much in pain that even after his death, his soul still wanders this house and the house now stands deserted.

4) Victoria Hospital, Bangalore
     This place is one of those places where a lot of paranormal activities have been reported. A media report from a few years ago mentions a “hungry ghost” in the vicinity of the morgue that had finished off a packet of biryani another such story is about the mischievous ghost that used to drink tea from students cup. These spirits or ghosts do look hungry and thirsty by their acts.

5) Ballalbagh, Mangalore
      In 2007 at an under-construction building near Shree Devi College at Ballalbagh, people reported hearing sounds of newly-born babies and woman wailing and pleading for help. The shocking part is that there was no one inside the building when people went in to help and this carried on for many days...

6) Haunted flat, Hubli
     A couple moved into this flat in the mid of 2012. The wife started noticing strange things inside the house, suddenly the lights would switch on and off and certain marks were found on her body which had formed after shifting to this house as if she had been assaulted. A priest was called in, who cleansed the entire area and then the paranormal activities stopped.

7) ECC - 79, Mysore
        According to the legend, a person had committed suicide here and people have experienced paranormal activities since then. It is one of the most haunted places in Mysore.

8)Bangalore International Airport
      Apart from the state of art infrastructure, Bangalore International Airport has also made news for a rather unusual reason.. for being one of the most haunted places in Bangalore. Many people have reported incidents around this place which are quite extraordinary. Accroding to the sources a ghost has been seen around the Cargo section, it has also been reported that through the infrared technique of detection the presence of a spirit has been confirmed. This and many such stories have added a spooky dimension to this rather unusual place to be haunted by a ghost.

9) Sixty graves, Bijapur
        Afzal Khan murdered his 63 wives at a well near Saath Kabar.The trigger which caused this tragic decision was the prophecy that his astrologers had given that he would lose the war against Shivaji and would also surely die. He, therefore, took his wives to a well at the outer limits of the fort city and pushed them into the well one by one and killed them. When two of his wives tried to escape, they were chased by his soldiers and killed. This well is supposed to be haunted and on certain nights people have heard noises coming out from the well.

10) Kumta
        The haunting of a white haired evil witch, has been experienced by many on the Muroor Road. According to the legend, people who see her get sick and the experience haunts them for days...

TOP 10 HAUNTED PLACES IN MAHARASHTRA

1) D`Souza Chawl (Mumbai)
       A well in the D`souza Chawl area of Mumbai, Mahim has acquired the reputation of being haunted. It is said that a woman, while getting water, fell to her death in the well. Many people claim to have seen the ghostly apparition of that woman near the well during nights.

2) Vrindavan Society (Thane)
      It is said that a man had committed suicide in one of the buildings in Vrindavan Society. The security guards patrolling the area have encountered strange things and happenings since then. They have been slapped hard on their face when alone and have been spooked by ghostly whispers during patrolling at night.

3) Shaniwarwada Fort (Pune)
      It is said that on Full Moon nights this place is very much haunted. According to an old story, this fort is haunted by the ghost of a prince who was brutally assassinated when he was 13 year old by one of his relative. His ghost can be heard shrieking in the middle of the night.

4) Johnson & Johnson Road (Mumbai)
         The Signal at Johnson & Johnson Mulund is one of the centers of paranormal activity. A lady in white sari haunt this lane and has been the cause of numerous accidents, especially on New Moon nights. While most accidents are fatal, those who survived, said that they were only trying to save a lady in white and that’s the last bit they remember!

5) Parsi Graveyard (Nagpur)
If you ask locals about haunted place in Nagpur, Parsi graveyard is the most common name that you will hear. People have reported illness for upto a week after visiting this place, many have also reported strange sightings of human like figures and eerie voices that chases them away. If you ever visit Nagpur and wish to get a haunted experience, then this is the right place for you.

6) Haunted House (Pune)
      There is a haunted house, which is located right next to the Garden Beer Bar and opposite to the water office. This spooky and eerie place is said to be unoccupied by humans for ages due to several stories attached to it. If you want to get an haunted experience then this place is a GO sign for u.

7) Haunted Well (Ahmednagar)
      There is a well in Belavandi Kothar, adjacent to a temple. The villagers frequently face shortage of water, still they do not use water from this well as it is supposed to be haunted. Various stories exist around it getting the status of being haunted...

8) Mukesh Mills (Mumbai)
       of Mumbai was closed in the 80's and is now haunted with stories of ghosts. Many films have been shot in and around the vicinity of this mill. According to the sources, once during a shoot an actress herself was possessed by a spirit and started speaking in a masculine voice. Deserted and ruined, Mukesh Mills is a ready made set for horror films. Many directors, actors, and producers refuse to work here past sunset considering the Mill to be haunted.

9) Raj Kiran hotel(Lonavala)
           There is a particular room on the ground floor of this hotel, where guests have reported their bed sheets had been pulled off while they slept. Some have woken up in the middle of the night with blue light at their feet.Some of them have woken up in the midst of dark nights with a ray of blue light at their feet. These people have gone through mental therapies after staying in that room.

10) Mumbai-Nashik Highway(Kasara Ghat)
     A particular area on the Mumbai-Nashik Highway passing through Kasara Ghat is said to be haunted by several paranormal entities. People have reported seeing an old headless lady, who suddenly comes in front of the vehicle, causing many accidents.

TOP 10 HAUNTED PLACES IN KERALA

1) Lakkidi, Wayanad
         There is a ficus tree which is considered as haunted. An adivasi was killed here brutally. It is the spirit of this adivasi which haunts people passing by this tree.

2) Haunted Bonacaud Bungalow
       Deep into Bonacaud region of Trivandrum, there stands a vintage styled bungalow and this bungalow is addressed as GB 25. This magnificent British architect-ed house appears spooky and sounds such as breaking of glass, voices and screaming of child can be easily heard in the night. Few trespassers have claimed to have seen the boy's apparition standing on the door. This place might seem a tourist attraction in the sunlight but after sunset Bonacaud bungalow becomes absolute horror.

3) Sabrimala
        There are many famous tales on Sabrimala temple. Every year On makara sankranti, a celestial lighting has been spotted on a particular hilltop. According to the locals it a blessing of Lord Ayyappa himself and is said to bless the devotees every Sankranti. But on the other side, few people think it is an evil spirit that was killed by Lord Ayyappa and every year, on 14th February the ghost tries to enter the land and Lord Ayyappa kills him...

4) Trichur Forest
      According to the sources, people have witnessed paranormal activities around here. Many people who have come here for camping and stayed at night have reported hearing mysterious noises. If you are an adventure lover, a visit to this place is suggested as you can camp in the forest during night to encounter paranormal occurrences.

5) Kariavattom
        Many people have witnessed several paranormal activities on a late-night scooter ride on Kariavottam campus road from Technopark back gate. They have seen movements of a figure twice the size of human beings.People have also felt the presence of supernatural powers around the Hymavathi pond in the Kariavottam complex...

6) The Weeping Ghost
        A family moved into a new house in Kollam. The same night they heard crying noises from various rooms in the house, this continued for many days. Finally a priest was called and after performing certain rituals the crying finally stopped.

7) Chooriyode
        The path from this place to Silent valley national park is haunted by five fire spirits. Many people on certain nights have experienced the horror of these spirits, though they have never harmed anybody...

8) Cloning Ghost
       According to the legend, there is an evil spirit in Marayoor which has the ability to take forms. On certain nights this evil spirit targets people and those coming under the influence of this evil spirit do not ever come back...

9) The ghost of Vaduthala Mathai
       This place near the Perandoor Canal was the haunt of a notorious rowdy, Vaduthala Mathai. “This man once abused a young woman who complained to the Raja of Edappally. The Raja ordered that Mathai be hanged to death. The hanging took place near a culvert across the canal. It is believed that Mathai’s ghost used to frequent this spot. Many feared going there after dark and even walking along the rail track. Local fishermen used to make an offering to the spirit of Mathai before getting down to work. Even today this belief exists in these parts of the city,”

10) Tripunithura
        Inside the fort area of Tripunithura there once stood a magnificent palace called Devatha Malika. This Dutch building was constructed to please Shaktan Thampuran, the then Maharaja of Cochin. But no one dared to live in it. As the name suggests it was believed to be the abode of celestial spirits. The building stood in a huge compound called Yakshithoppu. K.T. Rama Varma in his work Kairali Vidheyan Rama Varma Appan Thampuran writes, “When the members of the family (Cochin Royal Family) gathered together Devatha Malika used to be the topic of discussion. Even during afternoons people have supposedly heard voices, sounds from inside the building. And at night there was the pervading smell of the palapoovu (flowers of Alstonia Scholaris).” This palace was demolished during the reign of Rama Varma XVI or Chowarayiltheepetta Thampuran (king who died at Chowara).

TOP 10 HAUNTED PLACES IN ORISSA/ODISHA

1) Haunted tree in Manglojodi
        There have been reports of a killer tree which has been the cause of many deaths. According to sources, a girl was possessed by this ghost and it spoke through the girl, the prophecy is that it will kill 21 people.

2) Cuttack Hostel
        There is an old hostel in Cuttack which is presumed to be haunted. People have experienced paranormal activities at this place and there is one thing that is common when it comes to the description of this spirit, the spirit is of an old person and it vanishes when someone approaches it.

3) Ring road
        According to the legend, there is a crematorium along side this road and people on certain nights have experienced paranormal activities like half burnt people walking down the road who suddenly disappear...

4) State highway near Bhubaneswar
        The state highway near Bhubaneswar, is haunted by a lady witch. It is believed that, she died on the road by an accident and at night her spirit asks for lift from the vehicles passing near that spot. If anyone stops the car, she disappears and if they don't stop, it gets inside the car and makes creepy noises...

5) Puri haunted house
        One of the owner of a house in Puri city had committed suicide after going through certain problems in his life, but he was always fond of his house and never wanted to sell it. The people who came to stay there after the house was sold can still feel the presence of its last owner.

6) Jatan Nagar
        There is a 100 room palace at Jatan Nagar which was built by forced labour and it is also said that some people had died during the construction. The laborers where used to be tortured badly and it is their spirits which can be still experienced within the walls of this palace.

7) RIE's Haunted house
        It is situated in Bhubaneshwar region of Orissa. According to the locals some students who used to live here had committed suicide and the presence of their spirits have been experienced by many. Apparitions have been regularly spotted and weird sounds can be heard at night.

8) Kansbahal
        In one of the colonies, there used to be a Bhoot Bungalow, which was uninhabited for years. The story goes back to 1970's and according to the legend there has been few tragic and unfortunate deaths in the bungalow...

9) Balsore haunted house
        A family of three shifted to Balsore, after they moved in, they soon realized that they were not alone. In the next week itself, there were rashes and scars on their body. After further investigation it was found that the house was built upon a crematorium and the presence of ghosts was further confirmed by other paranormal activities...

10) Chaandpur village
        According to the legend "Shivu's father got victimized by an evil spirit. Later, Shivu tried to reveal the mystery behind the spirit. He saw a village girl, Jhilli become victim of the same spirit. Her spirit revealed the devil power of that tree. The villagers then decided to eliminate the evil entity by cutting the tree. Shivu attempted to do so but got killed by the evil spirit."

TOP 10 HAUNTED PLACES IN WEST BENGAL

1) Dow Hill of Kurseong
       In the corridors of Victoria Boy's School and in the surrounding woods a lot of paranormal activity has been recorded. A number of murders have taken place in the Dow Hill forest that has left an eerie feeling in the atmosphere. Many locals have also heard footsteps in the corridors of Victoria Boys School during the December–March vacations, when no one is supposed to be inside.

2) National Library
       It is the largest library in India by volume and India's library of public records. People have heard a lot of sounds made by the traditional anklets worn by women during dance performances. According to the locals, Lady Metcalfe loved to keep her house clean and hated if someone kept anything out of its own place. Even now, if you visit the library’s main reading room, and keep yourself busy amidst a pile of books scattered over, then you’d feel her breath down your neck.

3) Begunkodor Train Station
       Located in a remote village in West Bengal, this station is reportedly haunted by a white-sari draped spectral, the ghost of a lady who was run over by a train there. She has been seen dancing on the platforms and wandering along the tracks, and the sight has allegedly caused the death of a railway employee. However, these reports were rubbished by the government and the station was reopened in 2009 after being deserted for 42 years

4) The Royal Calcutta Turf Club
       This is a story of mid 1930s of a race maniac called George Williams who loved his horses more than his family and his job at the secretariat. He had as many as 5 horses, out of which his most famous and dearest was a pearl white horse called Pride. George Williams shot the horse after she was unable to win some races. Mystery or myth, Pride remains alive in the stories of her existence.

5) Rabindra Sarobar Metro Station
       Those who have committed suicide at this metro station are supposed to be haunting the place, and quite a few have over the years. Some of the people who have boarded the last train have had some weird experiences. It is claimed that spirits can occasionally be seen riding the last train. People have reported ghastly shadows of figures during the late evenings and nights.

6) SPS Asansol
       Attics have long been associated with ghosts and spooky stories of all sorts. However, this one at St. Patrick’s School, Asansol, is indeed haunted as claimed by the students, teachers as well as the house staff themselves. If you’re in for some adventure, why don’t you savour the “fun” yourself?

7) Birbhum
       There is a crematorium near the temple which will definitely give you an eerie experience. People have experienced paranormal activities and seen aparititons, this place is located at a distance of around 9 kms from Shantiniketan.

8) Sunderbans
       The swampy area located in the Sunderbans has witnessed a Will-o'-the-wisp which is common at any swampy region. However, what is uncommon is the pattern of the light takes the apparition of a fisherman, and this has been reported by several travelers. It is said that whoever follows this apparition never comes back.

9) Putulbari or the House of Dolls
        This place is more spooky and creepier than its name. According to the locals, if you stay past sunset in this house you are surely going to get an encounter with the spirits that hover around. The spirits are claimed to be of those poor and beautiful women who were ruthlessly sexually exploited by the zamindaris who owned this place.

10) Ghats on The Ganges
        Number of countless deaths... either due to suicide or drowning accidents, has left many spirits wandering in this sacred river. As their spirits are not yet satisfied and they did not get eternity, the wandering spirits haunt this place. Wrestlers who practice daily on Mullick Ghat and Zanana bathing ghat in early morning hours (3 AM), see someone's hands above water as if they are seeking help.

TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN GUJARAT

It is the Jewel of Western India. The state is bordered by Rajasthan to the north, Maharashtra to the south, Madhya Pradesh to the east, and the Arabian Sea and the Pakistani province of Sindh to the west. Its capital city is Gandhinagar, while its largest city is Ahmedabad. Gujarat is home to the Gujarati-speaking people of India. Following is the list of top 10 places to visit in Gujarat.

1) Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary
       Gir is the only natural habitat of world popular Asiatic Lions. coupled with thousands of other elusive wild animals and hard-to-find birds like uncommon Asiatic wild ass, hyenas, Gir foxes, pygmy woodpecker, brown fish owl and black buck etc.

2) Akshardham
        The complex was built over 13 years and is a tribute to Swaminarayan and his life and teachings.At the center of the 23-acre complex is the Akshardham mandir, which is built from 6,000 metric tons of pink sandstone from Rajasthan. On September 24, 2002, two armed terrorists attacked Akshardham, killing 33 people and wounding 70. The Indian National Security Guard intervened and ended the siege by killing both terrorists. A prayer assembly led by Pramukh Swami was organized on September 29, 2002, with attendees praying for the departed souls and their families and also for communal and sectarian peace.

3) Great Rann Of Kutch
      The Great Rann of Kutch is a seasonal salt marsh located in the Thar Desert. It is about 7,505.22 square kilometres in size and is reputed to be one of the largest salt desert in the world.This is one of the hottest areas of India - with summer temperatures averaging and peaking at 49.5 C. Winter temperatures reduce dramatically and can go below 0 °C. The Government of Gujarat hosts an annual 3 month long festival called the Rann Utsav (festival of the Rann), where tourists can see the various sights of the Rann as well as get a taste of the local culture, cuisine and hospitality.

4) Kankaria Lake
      It was constructed by Sultan Qutb-ud-Din at Ahmedabad in the year 1451. There is a popular saying that Kankaria lake of Ahmedabad was often visited by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir along with his wife Empress Noor Jahan. It is a great crowd pulling leisure spot. It is good place to hangout with family or friends. Here you get many modes of entertainment like, toy train, hot air balloon etc. Its really more colourful after evening with all its excellent lighting.

5) Laxmi Vilas Palace
      The palace is situated in a massive 700 acre of land. The stunning interiors of the palace and the opulent furnishings are awe-inspiring. It is reputed to have been the largest private dwelling built till date and four times the size of Buckingham Palace. At the time of construction it boasted the most modern amenities such as elevators and the interior is reminiscent of a large European country house. It remains the residence of the Royal Family, who continue to be held in high esteem by the residents of Baroda.

6) Somnath
      Somnath Temple is known as "the Shrine Eternal". This legendary temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times by Islamic kings and Hindu kings respectively. Most recently it was rebuilt in November 1947, when Vallabhbhai Patel visited the area for the integration of Junagadh and mooted a plan for restoration.The temple is open daily from 6AM to 9PM. There are 3 aarti daily; in the morning at 07:00, at 12:00 and in the evening at 19:00. It is also believed that this is the place where Krishna ended his lila on earth and left for his heavenly abode.

7) Jhulta Minara
      The Sidi Bashir Mosque is located in the city of Ahmedaba, due to its unique construction, the mosque is also called Jhulta Minar or Shaking Minarets.The mosque is located opposite the Ahmedabad Railway station and is one of the most popular tourist destinations of Ahmedabad. Entry to the shaking minaret was prohibited following an incident at Qutb Minar in Delhi, where a stampede resulted in many children being crushed.

8) Sabarmati Ashram / Mahatma Gandhi's Home
     Timings: 8:30am - 6:00pm
This Ashram was established by Mahatma Gandhi on a quiet stretch of the Sabarmati river in 1917, it is a very calm and soothing place. Gandhi Ashram is the most popular tourist place in the city. It is mostly visited by tourists due to its importance. It was from here, in 1930, that Mahatma began his famous "Dandi March" to the sea to protest against the Salt Tax imposed by the British. The ashram houses a museum, library, auditorium and photo galleries.

9) Dumas Beach
      This beach is believed to be one of the most haunted places of India.Apart from the beach, places of interest at Dumas including the Dariya Ganesh Temple located adjacent to the main beach.

10) Rani ki vav
      It is an intricately constructed stepwell situated in the town of Patan. It is located on the banks of Saraswati River. Rani ki vav was built as a memorial to an 11th century AD king. It was added to the list of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites on 22 June 2014.