Kohima- A heaven on the Earth

Acres of croplands, towering hillocks, bamboo huts and folk in traditional meghala- don't they talk about North-East India? The part of the country is dotted with attractions that are yet left to be explored. One must-visit place is Kohima, the capital of Nagaland. It is perched at an altitude of 1500 meters above the sea-level and is located in the southwest part of the state.

Countless tribal villages dot the picturesque town and among the many tribal groups, Naga communities dominate the region. The small town experience favorable weather round the year. Summers are tropical, while winters are dry, meant to chill out under the star-kissed sky.

Tourist Delight in Kohima

Kohima unfurls the magic of Mother Nature. With traveling across the zig-zag ways, visitors can explore the unspoilt beauty of the place. Lets take a quick look of what it has in store for us.

Zoological Park

The hilly place is blessed with immense variety of flora and fauna. The small zoological park is home to some endangered species. Rare species of orchids, Tragopan birds, Mithun, Golden Langurs and Blythe's Tragopan are worth-watching.

Pondicherry- A Living Monument Of French Culture In India

Sobriquet as 'Pondy', Pondicherry or Puducherry is one of the quaint region of India. This serene coastal area on the Coromandel coast is a tiny Union Territory of our country.

Blessed with numerous alluring charms of Mother Nature, Pondicherry is regarded as a top rated domain for a memorable leisure or romantic vacation in Southern part of India. This offbeat destination shares its border with vast Bay of Bengal and comprises four coastal regions namely Puducherry, (in Tamil Nadu), Karaikal(in Tamil Nadu), Yanam( in Andhra Pradesh) and Mahe(on the West Coast in Kerala).

Literally mean as “the new settlement”, Pondicherry encompasses an interesting history within its arms. This former capital of French colonialism in India traces back its origin to saint Agasthya, one of the revered sage of South India. Even some historians and nearby archaeological excavations displays that Ponducherry also has a Roman linkage, some 2000 years ago.

Puducherry is the capital of this Union territory and located just 162 kms away from Chennai. Situated away from the hustle and bustle of big cities of south India, Pondicherry is an excellent place to get rid of all the tensions of a busy life. Its distinguish characteristics which comprises of its unmistakable French connection, the three lined boulevards, the fantastic array of colonial heritage buildings of 18th century, the spiritual aura, the endless stretches of virgin beaches, tranquil backwaters, Tamil culture and the cosmopolitan flair of various nationalities so on bestows an unique identity to the town.

Along with Tamil and other regional languages, French and English are commonly spoken in the area. Thanks to its seaside villas and the cobbled streets, Pondicherry reflects more of south France than the south of India!!

Beside its pleasant atmosphere, relishing sea side restaurants, cheap bear, Pondicherry is renowned for its famed Shri Aurobindo Ashram and offshoot Auroville, 10 km outside the main town. As the name suggest, this ashram was founded by Shri Aurobindo in the year 1926, which brought international reputation to this tiny coastal town. This ashram is a fantastic blend of Yoga and modern science which beckon thousands of International and National travellers.

Pondicherry is also popular for its unique festivals which are different from the rest of the country and have their own flavour. Pondicherry has a special festival known as a Masquerade which takes place in March – April. It is a popular mask festival, during which brilliantly costumed and masked people of Pondicherry, dance down the streets to the music of trumpets and accordions. During the Eve of the Bastille Day, retired soldiers parade the streets in war finery, singing the French and Indian National Anthem.

By Jolly Mazumdar 

Dungarpur- a land of unexpected charms

If you are looking for some unexpected natural charms, than come to Dungarpur and explore its hidden treasures.

Among all the erstwhile princely capitals of Rajasthan, Dungarpur is the least explored one. Literally meaning “hill-town”, Dungarpur lies in the Vagad region of south-eastern Rajasthan. Adorned with an interesting topography which ranges from the wild and rugged terrain in the northeast to fertile plains of alluvial soil in the southwest, Dungarpur was established in early 13^th century.

Despite of such large scale urbanization, Dungarpur has still very well maintained its quite and unspoilt identity. Even today, Dungurpur does not fall in the regular tourist circuit of the state but should be explored for its unique scenic beauty and architectural style.

The magnificent palaces such as Udai Bilas Palace, Juna Palace and Shrinathji shrine near Gaib Sagar lake are the perfect testimony of Dungarpur's glorious past as well as Rajputana architectural zeneith.

Apart from these architectural masterpieces, Dungarpur is also famed for its virgin forested areas. The lush canopies of the region provides shelter to diverse flora and fauna. Numerous wildlife species like Jackal, Jungle cat, Indian Fox, Hyena, Black Faced Monkey, and porcupine can bee easily seen here.

Dungarpur is also famous for being a stronghold of Bhils, an indigenous tribal community and nurture their tribal culture.

If you are a keen observer of Nature, than do visit Dungurpur as it is different from the rest of Rajasthan.

By  Jolly Mazumdar

Chandannagar-The First French Colony Of India

In contrast to rest of India, which had been under British colonial rule, Chandannagar a small trading post on the banks of Hugli river was a French enclave. In the year 1673 A.D, French sailors landed here for the first time and turned this dusty village into a French colony.

Located just 30 km away from the hustle and bustle of Kolkatta city, Chandannagar is a small but commercial hub of West Bengal. Like Kolkatta, the history of this town is also dominated by foreign rule. Till 1950, Chandannagar remains as an object of tug-of-war between French and Britishers. But, after 1950 it was liberated and incorporated as a part of Indian territory.

From tourist point of view, Chandannagar is an excellent place to visit. Its for sure that with the very first step in Chandannagar, you will feel that you are in a French town. The remains of French buildings that are dotted in every corner of this town are an incredible example of architectural brilliance. 

Things to See in Udaipur

Fascinating Facts:
Udaipur always remain unconquered by the Mughals, in spite of much pressure.
Former capital of kingdom of Mewar in Rajputana Agency.
Udaipur is renowned as “City of Lakes” due to Pichola lake, Fateh Sagar Lake, Udai Sagar and Swaroop Sagar lake.
Highlights of Udaipur are Lake palace, City Palace, Jag Palace, Jag Mandir and Sahelion-ki- bari

Introduction:-
If you have the desire to spend a romantic vacation in India than just go for Udaipur in Rajasthan. Its for sure that Udaipur won't let you down. The very moment when you step into this picture perfect city of Rajasthan, you will feel the essence of romance in the air.

Popularly known as the “Venice of the East”, Udaipur is one of the most spectacular city of India. This lovely city is surrounded by the lush green Aravalli hills and some tranquil lakes. Thanks to the huge and splendid palaces, temples, havelis, museums and luxurious heritage hotels, Udaipur has emerged as a jewel of India's tourism industry.