Taj Mahal Tours- How to Select a Tour?

Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This wonder is located in the heart of India and is a tourist attraction to foreigners all over the world. The state revenue comprises of a major contribution from the tourism industry of the city of Agra. There are various Taj Mahal tours made for the foreigners as well as the Indian residents.

The Taj Mahal is a symbol of love built by Shah Jahan to his wife Mumtaz. This piece of art took 22 years to be completed. An interesting fact is that the Emperor wanted to build the same monument in black marble for his tomb but this dream did not fulfill as he was imprisoned by his youngest son, Aurangzeb. Talking about the architecture, the colored stones used in the designing of the monument each were bought from a different country. These stones came from places like Sri Lanka.

The Taj Mahal tour packages will vary depending on the location you are coming from and the time that you want to spend there. For example, if you are from Agra and a local resident, the amount will be very small as the India travel agent is providing commute for a small distance and this will be a one day trip. The entire package will include travel from a particular place as decided by the agent and the sight seeing of the wonder. Taj Mahal and return to the agreed spot. This is a one day trip for the local people.

Famous Tourist Hotspots of South India

South India is a place full of amazing things. The state of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu along with the union territories of Lakshadweep and Pondicherry holds many tourist attractions. Each state has plenty of natural and man-made wonders. Natural wonders include backwaters, beaches, forests and wildlife while temples, monuments, ruins of ancient buildings and the hill stations are the man-made wonders. All these places are a must visit during your South India Tours.

Kerala is listed in the list of ten paradises of the world and is also called the God’s Own Country. Kerala Backwaters are famous throughout India and the world. Other major tourist attractions are the beaches, lake resorts, Ayurveda spas, temples, hill stations and wildlife sanctuary.

Tamil Nadu’s tourism industry is based on tours of Hindu temples. There are 34000 temples in Tamil Nadu. It also has many UNESCO world heritage sites. Other places of tourist interest are backwaters, Wildlife sanctuaries, Water fall, Hill stations and beaches. It is also famous for many colorful festivals like Pongal, Mattu Pongal, Karthikai Deepam, etc.

Why India is called Incredible India!

Out of the many countless reasons, here are some of the top reasons why India is called Incredible India and why you should visit India on your next vacation tour.

India is a big country - Being the 7^th largest country by area in the world, India has very diverse natural features. Mountains covered with snow, hot and dry deserts, beautiful beaches and islands, rocky mountain range and dense forests, you can find all of them in India.

Colorful Heritage and Culture - The heritage of India is as vast as the size of the country. One of the oldest civilizations in the world, its heritage is rich in customs and traditions. So many different cultures have co-existed in the past and have blended together to form the present Indian society.

Great Architectural Wonders - The old rulers and emperors of India were great admirers of art and craftsmanship. The architectural marvels built by them are the proof of it. Temples, mosques, tombs, palaces and forts built by these kings are so mesmerizing you will not get enough of them.

India Tourism Industry Growth Rate 2011-12

The Indian tourism industry showed a tremendous growth of 8.9 percent which is almost double as what was expected to be around 4-5 percent in 2011 by the United Nations World Trade Organization (UNWTO). India also did well as compared to the other Asian countries as more than 6.29 million tourists visited India last in 2011.

The growth is the sign that India is regaining its position as the most favored Asian tourist destination. The growth percentage of 8.9 was lower than 2010’s growth rate of 11.8 but still the total number of tourist of 6.29 million was greater then last year’s 5.78 million.

The global slowdown and the travel advisories issued at the end of the year were some accountable factors but still not strong enough to hinder the growth of the Indian tourism industry. In fact, the last month of the year, December proved to be a great month for the tourism in India as roughly 715,000 foreign tourists visited India in December of 2011 as compared to 680,000 tourists visited in the same month of 2010. The growth percentage in December was about 5.2 percent comparing to 4.7 per cent in November.

The Top Must-See Historical Tourist Attractions for India Tours

India itself is rich in history as well as historical places which are the top tourist attractions in the country. From North to South, East to West, you will find attractive tourist destinations in India. So, never miss these must-see historical places when you visit India to see the luxury as well as the rich culture and history of India.

India is a huge land and there are numerous spots you can visit. From East to West, North to South, there are several attractions which you can see, with each more attractive than the other. Out of those thousands, here is a list of the must-see tourist attractions in case you have India tour packages. Whether you are just on a short tour or a long visit, you must see these historical places in India since they are not worth a miss.

A Brief Introduction to Indian History

India is the great grandmother of tradition, the grandmother of legend, the mother of history, the birth place of human speech, and the structure of human race. The history of India can be nearly divided into the 6 periods: post-independence, the struggle for independence, colonial period as part of The Raj, the years of the Company, Medieval India and Ancient India.

The Must-See Historical Places of India

India Gate – Situated in Rajpath, New Delhi, India Gate is a leading tourist attraction for India tours, and must be included at the top of your list. Also known as the India War Memorial, this monument was constructed in honor of the memory of about 90,000 fallen soldiers who sacrificed their lives for freedom at the time of World War I. This is also a memorial to the second war in Afghanistan in 1919. The gate consisted almost entirely of sandstone, is roughly 42 meters in height and was first built by the Duke of Connaught in 1921.

Bodhgaya – This is a spiritual sanctuary for religious Buddhists and attracts thousands of the devoted to the sacred monument every year. Situated just outside of Niranjana, this tourist site is known to be one of the holiest of pilgrimage sites, as history claims that this place is where Buddha achieved his enlightenment.

Khimsar Fort – Originally built in 1523 AD by well-known architect Rao Karamsiji, Khimsar Fort should also be included in your list of the must-see tourist attractions when you have India travel. Located on the Great Thar Desert, and having the 20th descendent as the occupant, it is more like a palace instead of a hotel. Khimsar Fort is ranked as the most desirable Royal Retreat that you can stay at while having a visit in India. The hotel features 50 ultra luxurious rooms, equipped with all of the facilities, from air conditioning to hot and cold water as well as a 24-hour room service.

Konark Sun Temple in India Tours

Located in Orissa just outside of the city of Puri, Konark Sun Temple is known to be a “medieval masterpiece” that symbolizes the wealthy architectural heritage of the culture of India from this time period. Created mostly from intricately hand sculpted segments and pieces, the temple was built complete with 24 wheels (each having around 10 feet in diameter), and complete of elaborate details like the spokes. The temple’s entrance is guarded by two fearsome lions, there are 7 horses which pull the chariot, and rearing elephants welcome travelers and tourists to the primary steps that lead to this temple.

Ideal and Exciting Tourist Destination in India

India is one of the most wonderful and exciting travel destinations around the world. It is considered as a naturally gifted place with the broad range of tourist destinations. In India, every state has overabundance of holiday hotspots wherein you can savor the pleasure of life without worrying about the everyday turmoil of working life. India has a wealthy cultural history, numerous architectural marvels and vast diversity. India Tour Operators provide a pleasing experience having the superb blend of tradition, culture natural beauty, spiritual and stunning modernization. So, visit this magical land of India and explore amazing destinations along with your family, special someone and friends.

Experiencing Endless Pleasure in India

India is most visited by people because of its wonderful destinations and it stands out among all Asian countries because of the earthy charm, geographical diversities and rich history. With its numerous diversities and variations, there are many places in India where you can explore and enjoy. If you are one of the tourists, you can definitely explore the beautiful palaces, mighty forts, picturesque valleys, cool hill stations, captivating beaches, breathtaking backwaters, golden desert, modern amusement, amazing fauna and flora, and solemn religious places.

India is a perfect place for people who love to study the different aspects of life, ancient civilization, mysticism, unique culture, mouth-watering foods, spiritual characteristics and a lot more. India travels are truly a superb experience when traveling and exploring such ancient land, which is beyond your widest imagination. India has a number of things to offer for every visitors and tourists. This place is a famous destination for professionals, vacationers, retirees, adventure enthusiast, honeymooners and various types of globetrotters.

Basically, vacationers love to flock on such a mesmerizing place and explore the distinctive tourism of Indian treasure. In India, there are varieties of India tours packages like South tours, North tours, Rajasthan tour, north-east tours, golden triangle tours, Ladakh and Kashmir tour, Kerale tour, medical tour, Taj Mahal tour, Uttarkhand tour, Ayurveda tour and other customized tour packages having the affordable price. These are the descriptions of several and often visited destinations for India tourism.

New Trends introduced by India Tour Operators

In India planning a tour is a great idea indeed. Vacationing in India becomes special for the visitors because they have plethora of activities to do and enjoy. There is no dearth of any opportunity of entertainment in India. There are several places of recreation and rejuvenation in India. For long it was considered that India only has Taj Mahal. No doubt it is the landmark of India, but now new trends have been introduced and the tour operators have completely understood the relevance of other tourist attractions of India. Enquiry Now

Now with the Taj Mahal Tour, the tourists have bright chance of enjoying many other tourist spots of India. India Tour Operators understand the need of comfortable stay of the travelers and ensure that travelers stay peacefully and thoroughly enjoy their vacations.

With introduction of new trends in the industry, the tour operators have included many hotels that can suit every pocket for that matter. From budget hotel to five star accommodation facilities, the tour operators take care of every budget and need.

Museum And Architectural Tour Of India

Indian architecture is rooted in its Culture, traditions and history. In fact, as the country progressed and moved on from one era to another, the influences that various religions and dynasties had on its traditions finds an outlet in various forms of architect practiced in different parts of the country. As a result, India has an extremely rich history of various forms of architect, which were practised at different points of time. It started from the Mehrgarh culture of the Indus valley civilization when houses were made of mud bricks. As a result Pramod Chandra mentions in Encyclopedia Britannica’s article ‘South Asian arts’ that how “the major cities associated with the civilization, notably Mohen-jodaro, Harappa and Kalibangan were laid out on a grid pattern and had provisions for an advanced drainage system”.

Keeping in mind the rich history of the bygone eras, travellers endeavouring to relish the Architect and Museums of India have a lot to choose from as is evident from the selected list given below:

Khujaraho- Renowned across the globe for the learnings that erotic architect on the wall of temples offers to the populace. Constructed between the ninth and tenth century, these temples also find mention in the UNESCO World Heritage list and highlight the ethos of Indian religion that revered the practice of yoga and bhoga that oscillated between devotion to God and satisfaction out of physical pleasures.

Sarnath-The place where Gautam Budha first taught about Dharma, is located in Uttar Pradesh and is also an important Jain pilgrimage. This is also a place that has offered extremely rich collection of artefacts and sculptures to India, including the most famous exhibit of a single Lion capital of Ashoka, which now proudly finds its place in a museum in Sarnath. The other important attractions of the Sarnath Archaeological Museum include the renowned Ashoka pillar that is all remnants of the great emperor-Ashoka.

Chandigarh- A very modern city, this capital of Punjab and Haryana is not only the political and cultural hub of the state, but also houses the famous Rock garden built by Nek Chand from scrap material, and also has some very popular museums like the Chandigarh architect museum that gives a Glimpse of the original documents regarding the planning of the city, besides offering an insight into the rare plans and sketches prepared as part of the master plans of the city.

Short Vacation Destinations In India - Delhi, Agra And Jaipur

“We arrived in India for the shooting of a documentary and once the shoot was over the crew decided to take a short break. As we all were divided over the choice of place, ultimately the group divided into three small ones and decided to proceed to three different destinations-Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, and what a short vacation that was!” wrote Amma to her friend in an email.

What Amma mentioned is actually what many tourists like her feel when they convert a business or a personal Tour to India in enjoying a short vacation in the country. This break not only helps them rejuvenate their tired soul, but also gives them an opportunity to understand the country.

Delhi being the capital of country has so much to offer. To many, it is like a country in itself-the city is spread so far and wide that it seems to encompass sea of humanity. With vehicles zooming in and out of different and almost all the roads at any point of the day, it is difficult for anyone to guess when Delhi sleeps. Yet beneath that never ending cloak is an invisible spirit that needs to be explored and for that one needs to spend a little more time roaming around the streets and visiting various nooks and corners that contains reminiscence of footsteps of royalties and kingdoms that have ruled, or have dreamt of ruling Delhi. Even the difference between Delhi built by Britishers, the old Delhi and the ever expanding Delhi needs to be experienced to be understood.

Similarly, the glory of  Taj Mahal  in Agra is always beckoning and is actually worth taking a short yet memorable vacation. It is difficult to comprehend the feeling that one gets standing in front of this love monument. The exquisite grandeur, the aura and the overwhelming and overarching feeling of love is always in the air even in the near vicinity of the structure. Even modernisation and accomplishments in the field of architect can’t diminish the stateliness of the structure and till the time these feelings remain,it is difficult to either circumvent, or diminish the importance of this short but very fulfilling vacation.

Cultural Rajasthan Tours To India

Culture is a word that is synonymous with the Deserts of Rajasthan. While desert may conjure up the images of sandy vastness, spreading endlessly over miles of flat land, where in breeze is always related to sand storms of various colours and intensity; one thing remains very familiar in the dull surroundings: the vibrant costumes of people, their culture and festivals.

The Erco Travels agents always feel that all in all, it is a different world all together, where time transcends into stillness when the little bells hanging from the necks of merrily strolling Camels fill the air. Or, when young firls and women, dressed up in their refinery, singing happily in the wee hours of morning, celebrate the gangaur festival, where in the unmarried girls pray to get a good husband and the married ones keep fast for the welfare of their family and husband. Not to forget the sound of dhup- a local musical instrument that spreads far and wide in the month of March, awaking sleepy folks out of their beds, especially near the festival of holi in India. It is these little gestures of finding zest and fervour in everything that Rajasthani’s do is what adds more spice to the already vibrant culture of the state.

Accordingly, feels the Erco Travels agents that a tour to this extremely Culture of Rajasthan state of India should encompass an ingredient of all-its heroic history, nostalgic fight of even women for the land, festivals, cuisine and traditions that are still so very unique to the place and leave the tourist almost spellbound. All through their stay, it is difficult for them to get out of the hospitality and warmth of the people that is extended wholeheartedly at almost all the destinations.

                     

Erco Travels agents are of the view that owing to the variety offered by the state, the cultural tour can be designed as per the interest and wishes of the traveller as there is so much to mix and match. If the interest is tilted towards history and architect then to begin with stay can be organised in heritage hotels, which are an experience in itself. Then the destinations can be picked and chosen to ensure that most of the renowned  Forts and Palaces and monuments are covered and clubbed with camel and elephant rides to give the real feel of the golden times of the erstwhile Maharajas.

Top 5 Attractions To Visit India Tour

Sussane was lost deep in thoughts. After having decided to visit India in winters, she now faced the dilemma of choosing the destinations and what a country it was-so much of diversity, so many options from adventure to natural diversity, from sandy beaches to places of historical importance and not to forget the Cultural and spiritual aspects. The more she read about various destinations, the more confused she was as she had limited days in hand and what she wanted to see was difficult to manage within those days; at least not until she was put in touch with Erco Travels.


The agents of Erco Travels solved her problem in seconds. All that they asked was her liking and inclination and came up with an extremely satisfying itinerary of top five attractions of India Tour, which were:
                                                        
•Delhi: The capital of India, which in any ways Sussane had to touch base because of being her entry point in the country. However, the Erco Travels agent had explained how this was where she could get a glimpse of modern India along with the India of Britisher’s and Maharajas.  Delhi Tour also had lot many interesting museums, places of religious interest and a lot to shop.
                                         
      •Agra: Famous for the seventh wonder in the world-the Taj Mahal, Agra was always on her itinerary. The Erco Travels agent had said that she will forget the world when she will visit the monument. He had also explained how travelling from Delhi to Agra was so easy and comfortable and could also be clubbed with a visit to Fatehpur Sikri.

Explore The Buddhist Worship Places In India - Land Of Buddha

Anna was reading about Buddhist circuit Tours In India and she realised that Budhism is a way of life and is based on the beliefs and teachings of Lord Buddha or Sidhartha Gautama, commonly known as the Buddha-a name that stands for  the awakened one in Sanskrit.

She realized that India Tour is famous for Buddhist tour because between the 6th and 4th centuries BCE, Buddha lived and taught in the northeastern Indian subcontinent.  Buddha or Sidhartha Gautam was basically an Indian prince, who was born in approximately 563 BC. He began his spiritual quest fairly young-at the age of 29, and later received enlightenment under the Bodhi tree (‘tree of wisdom’) at Bodh Gaya in the Northern Indian.

As a result the country has lot many places that are a testimony to the Buddhist Places of  Worship. Some of these are: Sravasti that has Jetavana monastery with Buddha’s hut, Lumbini , which is Buddha’s birthplace, Kushinagar –the place where Buddha attained Mahaparinirvana, Patna, Bodhagaya-the place where Buddha attained enlightenment and Varanasi –the place where one can find Buddhist structures.

To begin with Sarnath is almost ten kilometres from Varanasi, which is a holy city of Hindus and is the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermons in the Deer park. It is this place that finds lot of significance in the Buddhism religion.The destination has the outstanding Dharmarajika, Chaukhandi and Dharnek stupas; the remains of a monastery, and the beautiful and awe inspiring Lion Capital of Ashoka. In fact Sarnath contains a rich library and at the Mula gandha Kutir Vihara there are excellent frescoes by Kosetsu Nosu. 

The Sarnath Museum, not far from the site, contains some of the finest specimens of Buddhist sculpture. Over a period of time, Sarnath has developed as a place of pilgrimage, both for Buddhists from India and abroad. Many a countries where Buddhism is a dominating religion, temples and monasteries have been established in Sarnath style. So a visit to Sarnath offers a once in the lifetime opportunity to experience an overview of Buddhist architecture from various cultures.

The second a must-visit place in a Buddhist circuit states Erco Travels agent is Bodhgaya. This is the place where Buddha attained enlightenment. The destination boasts of Mahabodhi Temple Complex. According to Buddhist traditions, the Buddha, reached the sylvan banks of Falgu river wandering as an ascetic. He sat in meditation under a bodhi tree (Ficus religiosa), where after three days and nights of meditation, he attained enlightenment and the answers that he sought.

Another very important place in this circuit is Savatthi, which is located on the banks of the river Rapti. It so happens that the King of this city was a disciple of Buddha. The city still is beautiful and is a place where Buddha spent the greater part of his monastic life. Buddha’s first visit to this place was at the invitation of Anathapindika, whom he met in Rajagaha. As a result the main monasteries are in Sravastiand is a place where most Buddhist love to visit. So what are you waiting for? Get in touch with Erco Travels agent to plan it all!

India Tour- Journey To Remember

While you are touring to India, you will have such immense pleasure that you can never even imagine of. India is a land of different cultures yet living together at the same place. You will experience religious and spiritual significance while touring with Cultural Central India Tour. The people from different religion such as Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism and Christianity not only live together but also celebrate their rituals, festivals and occasions together. Apart from these four religions, you will also find a shade of some other religions such as Jainism, Zoroastrianism and Judaism which also play an important role in maintaining the integrated feel in this culturally rich land.

If we discuss about the geographical features of the land, India has a number of large and huge mountain range, deep valleys, vast desserts, lush green and fruitful plain areas, plateaus, amazing rain forests and coastal areas to visit. No doubt, you will have a deep mysterious interest while visiting these unique geographical features of India. One most important thing which makes India the most preferred tourist destination is that Golden Triangle Tour offers all year round holiday season to its visitors. No matter its winter, summer, spring, autumn or monsoon, you can visit the place anytime to make your tour memorable. You can see tourists visiting India Tours in any season of the year.

You can also plan to visit India by keeping in mind that the country has a number of rich heritage sites which are famous worldwide. These sites are approved by UNESCO World Heritage Centre and generally known as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Agra Fort,Golden Triangle Khajuraho Tour,Wildlife Scantuary, Kaziranga National Park, Bharatpur Bird Scantuary, Fatehpur Sikri, Humayun Tomb, Qutub Minar and not to forget globally famous Taj Mahal Tour are few to name.

Contrasts In India: Explore The Diversity Of India

India is famous around the world for its culture. Indian people are very hospitable and treat their guests with lot of respect. North India is home to many famous tourist destinations like the city of Agra which is world renowned for Taj Mahal Tour, the city of Varanasi which is famous as a spiritual city and many more other places. A trip to north India travel destinations is must for every tourist who wants to experience India Tours.

Udaipur is one of the most famous cities of  Inceredible Rajasthan among tourists. It is also known as The City of Lakes. It has a vibrant and colorful culture. Founded in 1958 by Maharaja Udai Singh II it is also known as The Venice of East due to the romantic aura this city has. There are many historical monuments present in city which reflects the rich Rajputana history of tjis city. A tourist can enjoy peaceful boat rides in Lake Pichola. City Palace is nearby The Lake Pichola, this structure made of marble and granite stands tall overlooking the lake. A tourist can also go sightseeing of The Lake Palace, Fatah Sagar Lake, Jag Mandir,Wildlife Tours and many more places. One can enjoy the music and nomadic dance forms of local people in cultural programs organized by various groups.

   

Ladakh is situated in the top north of India. Surrounded by high mountains and barren landscape this exotic place attracts many tourists to itself. Ladakh means land of hish passes.The Moonland Ladakh has been deeply influenced by Buddhist religion and Cultural Tour of Spiti and Ladakh . Ladkah has many beautiful monasteries where a tourist can spend some peaceful time. Ladakh Tours is famous for its high mountains where one can go trekking, mountain climbing, Para-gliding and many other adventure sports. The stretch from Fhey and Nimo in Ladakh is the highest point in world where river rafting is possible.

Feel Royal Board The Luxury Train Tours India

India boasts of  having luxury trains since times immemorial.The luxury trains also known as ‘raajsi railgadi’ can give you a superior,royal experience which you will never be able to forget. Luxury tours in India are very, very famous. They have been world renown and people from all countries do tour on the Luxury Trains India for a splendid experience.

Discovering the country and its history, heritage, sights and a lot more through these trains is a good option for the reasons as said. The train journey helps you see the beautiful country called India Tours. The scenic beauty is just too mesmerizing that you would want to come again and again, to get the rich feeling.

The best few of the luxury trains are- Fairy Queen, The Golden Chariot , Royal Orient,Palace on Wheels, The Indian Maharaja Heritage on Wheels and so on. They deliver world class hospitality and services. A tour on either of these are nothing but ‘ecstatic’ in one word. Almost all the luxury trains in the country have a pre-scheduled route which travels through the best of the best views that you can.

To explain further, the Heritage on Wheels deluxe train takes its passengers rather call then the guests on an enthralling ride form the the exciting and colorful state of  Rajasthan Tour and help you discover,one of the most accepted tourist destinations in the country for the moment. As the luxurious train takes on to start on the tour, it stops at the planned routes which are of scenic beauty and can captivate your attention in the best way desired. The cities , towns and villages therefore giving the travelers a chance to see the beautiful sights,know and understand the inheritance and legacy, particularly of Rajasthan.

Traveling through similar lines as the royal palace on wheels, the other deluxe trains take their visitors through similar, other attractive and motivating places around the country. And in a way makes the travelers familiar with the parts of the country that they have always visualized about and dreamt off. A close view of the places beautiful as India, its vibrant and different cultures and not to miss its people If you are planning to spend your next vacation in India or just anyway plan to visit India then do not miss the opportunity of traveling in this luxurious train. We assure that this train journey would leave you memories of a lifetime. Such memories that you feel royal, travel royal, get royal with Royal Rajasthan on Wheels.

ErcoTravels won the National Tourism Award for Outstanding Performance in 2008, given by Ministry of Tourism in India, as an Inbound Tour Operator. Accredited by IATA, it is an active member of IATO, TAAI, USTOA, and ASTA. Our customers are safe in the knowledge while they are in India that Erco has a good professional team & English speaking guides to ensure that our Customers have an enjoyable tour & amp; stay in India.

Erco offers holiday breaks in a number of beautiful locations, including a range of all-inclusive Incredible Rajasthan , holidays to Kerala and Wildlife safaris Tours as well as a host of memorable experiences such as tracking in Himalaya and Ladkah. The company’s Authentic Experiences enable travellers to do as the locals do or learn from experts in their field.