Attraction

Apr 03, 2019

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India, as we all know, is the land of rich heritage, tradition and culture. India boasts of its infinite tourist spots and attractions for visitors. After reaching India, one can choose from an array of holy sites and spiritual encounters. Our nature lovers can explore sun-washed beaches, lush green national parks, and exciting wildlife sanctuaries. Below is the list of India’s top attraction that cannot be missed:

1. Statue of Unity: Dedicated to the ‘Iron Man of India’, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Statue of Unity is the tallest statue in the world with a height of 600 ft., which is almost four times the size of Statue of Liberty. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played a significant role in the Indian Independence Movement and was the first Deputy Prime Minister of India. The unveiling of the statue was done by Indian Prime Minister Mr.Narendra Modi on 31 October 2018 in Gujarat. The statue has been designed by Indian sculptor Mr Ram V.Sutar and constructed by Larsen & Toubro.

2. Taj Mahal: An epitome of love and reverence, Taj Mahal in Agra has been declared as the “The jewel of Muslim art in India”. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site in 1983, Taj Mahal attracts nearly 7 to 9 million tourists every year. It was commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife Mumtaz Mahal between 1631 and 1648. This immense ivory-white marble mausoleum houses the tombs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan. The mausoleum borrows a lot from Persian and Mughal architecture. It is surrounded by minarets and Mughal gardens.

3. Nehru Park Floating post office: Inaugurated in 2011 by former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Mr Omar Abdullah, Nehru Park Floating Post office is one of the top attractions to look out for. Standing on a huge houseboat in the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar, the post office is a perfect place to enjoy the scenic beauty and mesmerizing ambience. Not only this, the Floating Post office is said to be surrounded by mountains and has a philately museum and a souvenir shop that sells postage stamps, greeting cards, postcards and other famous items of Kashmir.

Food cravers can binge on the spicy, flavoursome and scrumptious Kashmiri food served at local eateries in the city. Famous dishes include Rogan Josh, Matschgand, Yakhni, Dum Aloo and Lyodur Thaman. Do not forget to keep yourself warm by sipping Kashmir’s traditional Kawaa tea and Noon chai (Pink tea).

4. Kumbh Mela: Kumbh Mela in India is considered to be one of the world’s largest gatherings. In 2011, this congregation was so huge that it included over 75 million pilgrims from various parts of the country and was said to be visible from space.

Kumbh Mela is almost 2000 years old celebration and is held after every three years. It takes place at the banks of sacred rivers at four locations - Haridwar (river Ganga), Ujjain (river Kshipra), Prayag (Triveni Sangam of Yamuna, Ganga and Saraswati), and Nasik (river Godavari). It returns to each location after a span of 12 years. Kumbh means ‘nectar’. According to the legends, during a chase between Asuras (demons) and Devas(Gods) for the nectar of immortality, some of the nectar fell at these four locations from heaven. Hence, these locations are considered holy and the water of these rivers is said to turn into nectar on particular days according to the movement of the sun and moon. It is also believed that the holy water could wash away all the sins and takes one closer to salvation.During Kumbh Mela, millions of people including Naga sadhus, Kalpwasis and Urdhawavahurs perform sacred rituals by taking a dip in the holy water. The Government of India had been providing various facilities to pilgrims by setting up camps, toilets, temporary hospitals and food joints for pilgrims.

5. Meena Bazar (New Delhi): Meena Bazar has marked its presence as one the oldest markets of the world. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, Meena Bazar is considered as one of the first fully covered markets. Also known as ‘Chhatta Chowk Bazaar', it is located on the Eastern end of Jama Masjid.Meena Bazar is famous for clothes, dupattas, chiffons, carpets, embroidered garments, pure silks, jewellery, velvets, rugs, gems, silverware, precious stones and other artistic objects inspired by the Mughal era.

Not to be missed are the famous local eateries serving lip-smacking Tandoori, Mughlai and North Indian food. After a hectic day of shopping, one must try authentic chicken biryani with Mirchi ka Salan at Karim’s restaurant.

6. Chail Cricket Ground:  Located at an altitude of 2,444 meters above the sea level, the Chail Cricket Ground in Himachal Pradesh, is the highest cricket ground in the world. It was built in 1891 and is used as a playground by Chail Military School. It is also used for playing Polo and has a well-maintained basketball court.

7. Varanasi: Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi is one of the holiest and oldest cities in the world. As per legends, Varanasi is more than 5000 years old and was founded by Lord Shiva. It is situated on the banks of the sacred river Ganga in Uttar Pradesh. It is also known as the city of ‘Moksha’ and is considered auspicious for bathing and cremation. This city is visited by thousands of tourists from all over the globe.Varanasi has approximately 84 ghats and ancient temples. The famous ‘Kashi Vishwanath Temple’, dedicated to Lord Shiva is a major tourist spot. Also, the divine Ganga Aarti during evenings on the ‘Dasaswamedha Ghat’ a major centre for pilgrimage.Varanasi is renowned for its Benarasi Silk Sarees and musical instruments.India is the land of surprises. This list above could give you a short glimpse of the famous tourist attractions in India, there are many more left to be explored.