India Top summer destination 2008

DARJEELING - JEWEL OF EAST

Darjeeling still resembles an old Victorian town, complete with cobbled roads, old-world bungalows and endless tea estates. It attracts tourists with its oak and pine forests, orchid blooms and its stunning views of the Mount Kanchenjunga. Also known as a trekker's paradise, Darjeeling's adventure challenges draw many travellers. Darjeeling's charming villages, waterfalls and 'toy-train' are some of the attractions that shouldn't be missed.

Must Visit: The Observatory Hill is the oldest site in Darjeeling. The Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway - the first passenger ropeway in India - is located at North Point, about 3-km from the town. Ghoom Monastery, located at 8000 ft, is one of Darjeeling's most renowned monasteries. Visit Tiger Hill, the area's highest point in the early morning for the dramatic effect the first rays of the sun create on distant Himalayan peaks.

Travelguru Recommends: Take a ride on the Darjeeling Toy Train between Kurseong & Ghoom. It takes almost an entire day, but is worth it!

Travelguru Tips: Walk through lush tea gardens. Watch tea-pickers at work or even get a lesson in tea-picking. One of the most famous is Badamtam Estate.

Getting There: Airport - Bagdogra (10 Kms from Siliguri), Rail Station - New Jalpaiguri Junction and Siliguri.

SHIMLA - THE SUMMER CAPITAL

The capital of Himachal Pradesh was the summer capital under British rule. Rich in tradition and natural beauty, Shimla, is surrounded by pine, deodar, oak and rhododendron forests. It's well developed facilities, easy accessibility and many attractions make it one of India's most popular hill-stations.

Must Visit: Enjoy a majestic view of Choor Chandni Peak on the tourist trains - the Shivalik Palace and the Shivalik Deluxe between Kalka and Shimla stations. Visit the Jakhoo Hills, the tallest of the seven hills in Shimla crowned by the Hanuman Temple. For shopping visit the Mall Road. Also include a trip to Kufri (22 km from Shimla) for yak rides and fine ski slopes. Naldehra (23 kms from Shimla) has one of the oldest golf courses in India.

Travelguru Recommends: Best season is summer, but we recommend you go there during spring and autumn, when the views are spectacular.

Travelguru Tips: Hand-made khukri by Gorkha's make a good souvenir from Shimla.

Getting There: Airport - Shimla. Rail Station - Shimla and Kalka.

MANALI - THE VALLEY OF THE GODS

Located at an altitude of 6,398 ft in the Beas River valley, Manali is one of the most popular hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. Its charm as the perfect honeymoon spot hasn't dissipated over the years. It's also where many flock to experience their first contact with snow. This small town marked the origin of ancient trade route to Ladakh and was once the home of the Saptarshi or seven sages.

Must Visit: Enjoy a visit to the Great Himalayan National Park. Popular picnic spots featuring gushing waterfalls include Rahla Fall and Palani Fall near Manali. Kheerganga at Manikaran is among the most visited Hot Water Spring. A dip here is believed to cure gastric problems and rheumatic pains.

Adventure Sports: Try White Water Rafting, Canoeing and Kayaking at River Beas. The river is an angler's delight as well and tourists are allowed a session of trout fishing. Also try paragliding at Solang Nullah and skiing at Rohtang Pass which is the highest point on the National Highway.

Travelguru Recommends: Manali is known for its splendid bargains. The region's woolen shawls, Tibetan carpets, fur caps and mufflers are famous.

Travelguru Tips: Kullu-Manali is best explored on a motorbike, which can be hired at reasonable charges. Taxis and local buses are also available.

Getting There: Airport - Bhuntar, Rail Station - Jogindar Station.

OOTY - A WALK IN THE CLOUDS

Located in Nilgiris, or 'Blue Mountains', Ooty, otherwise known as Udhagamandalam, derives its name from "othakal-mund" which means "house in mountains". Its year-round pleasant weather makes it a haven for vacationers.

Must Visit: The Botanical Gardens are well laid-out with shady tree-lined avenues and innumerable ornamental plants and flowers. One of the main attractions is a fossilised tree trunk. A visit to the Rose Garden is a worthwhile experience. Ooty Lake is a long and beautifully constructed artificial lake. Other lakes include Glenmorgan and Pykara Lake. Visit the magnificent Union Church and Trinity Church. Snowden Peak and Cairn Hill offer spectacular views.

Travelguru Tips: Take a hang gliding course. There are many lakes and streams where you can enjoy fishing.

Travelguru Recommends: Visit during the summer festival, which happens in May. Don't miss the Flower Show. Pick up tea, aromatic oils spices and hand made chocolates. One of the best known places is the King Star Confectionery.

Getting There: Airport - Coimbatore, Rail Station - Coimbatore.

MUNNAR - GOD'S OWN COUNTRY

Away from the din of flocking tourists, in the green hills of Kerala, Munnar is one of the best-kept secrets of this God's Own Country. Deriving its name from the three rivers which flow through it, Munnar is also the site of the Neelakurinji, a blue flower which blooms only once every twelve years and covers the entire hillside in its hue.

Must Visit: Eravikulam (Rajamalai) National Park is located 45 mins from Munnar. This National Park is home to the endangered species of mountain goat, Nilgiri Thar. Anamudi Peak is located within the Eravikulam National Park is the highest peak in South India. It is an ideal spot for trekking; it is an easy walk to the peak. The Tea Museum showcases the history of tea plantations in Munnar and the process of making tea.

Travelguru Recommends: Don't miss the speed boat ride at Madupatty Dam.

Travelguru Tips: Try traditional Kerala cuisine served on plankton leaves at Sarvana Bhavan situated in the city center.

Getting There: Airport - Cochin, Rail Station - Ernakulum Junction.

GOA - LAND OF SUN-SOAKED BEACHES

With 131 km of coastline, Goa is a sun-soaked paradise. Known for its delicious seafood, cashew feni and beautiful beaches, Goa offers something for everyone. Goa's beaches are a great place to indulge in water-sports like snorkeling, jet skis, paragliding or simply beach relax at a shack. The real essence of Goa lies in its winding lanes, with a church at every corner.

Must Visit: North Goa's beaches, from Arambol to Candolim, are the most frequented and hip beaches of Goa and offer more adventure activities. South Goa beaches from Velsao to Palolem are more laid back. Rarely visited, but amongst the most peaceful, are Agonda Beach, Cola Beach and Canaguinim Beach.
Amongst the most popular churches are the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Sé Cathedral, Church & Convent of St Francis of Assisi, Chapel of St Catherine, Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, Royal Chapel of St Anthony and more to visit.

Travelguru Recommends: Visit Camelot, a restored Goan mansion, which has been turned into an eclectic store for household articles.

Travelguru Tips: Hire a bike and explore the paradise on your own. The locals will help you with directions.

Getting There: Airport - Dabolim, Rail Station - Madgao (South) and Karmali (North).