Explore the REAL INDIA

Real spirit of India has a live view in small villages apart from the crowd of urbanization. So, better to turn your steps towards villages, native sites, or silent beauty of nature. Mountain regions of Himalayas and Kerala is a perfect way to soothe your senses. Such kind of rejuvenation is always with you for a lifetime. Truly tremendous!

India is a famous culture rich land with its magnificent huge area. The country offers multiple experiences to a first time visitor especially with its variety of cultures, communities and religions. If you want to take an actual tour to India then slow paced villages is a best way to collect whole amazing experience. Here, we mention a few basic tips to fully enjoy your India visit in a comfortable and convenient way.

Precautions to avoid the risks (especially for Female Travelers)
Even India is one of the safest places in the world yet we've to follow some precautions to avoid risks-

• Always pre-plan with a good research on the small factors related to culture, climate, food habits and dress code of the place before you want to visit.


• Asian world has different trends with comparison to Western people. So, it is not sure that you'll meet up to your expectation whether it is a part of behavior, late night outing or too much friendliness with males.


• Stay confident and avoid the strangers, beggars and roadside vendors.


• Try to avoid going alone at unknown sites and dark streets. Must follow the guidelines of your local guide and person who will assist you at a new place.

• Positively utilize the technology and install helpful mobile apps which can support you in any emergency situation.


• Decent dressing is a perfect way to avoid any kind of odd and unwanted attention. Modern and traditional wearing depends on the areas which you select for your visit. Like, you can wear short dresses in metro cities, but in case of small cities and traditional states must try to wear normal fitted, comfortable and covered attires. Long Kurtis, Salwar Kameez, comfortable T-shirts, normal fitted trousers and related stuff are good to wear throughout the country. You can also locally purchase them at reasonable prices and can easily roam around the sites.

Eat RIGHT and Stay HEALTHY

• For healthy and hygienic conditions, be careful about your food and drink.

• Must ensure about the source of drinking water, if it is not from trusted source then try bottled water, boiled water or use purifying tablets.


• In India, the roadside local vendors generally sale cut fruits & salads, but you've to use uncut fruits to avoid the contamination.


• Try to add curd in your meal for better digestion and use less oily & less spicy food.

• If you select summer time to visit India then must use sunscreen, wear sunglasses and drink plenty of liquids to avoid the negative effect of hot and harsh conditions. Coconut water is healthy and the safest option.


• Never forget to carry basic medicines, band aids and a mosquito repellent like first aid things with you for your safety.

TIPPING tips

Tip is basically depend on the quality of services provided to you whether it is a part of hotels, restaurants, driver or any related services.

• Tip is generally not included in the bill charges and this additional part is near about the 10% of the bill.


• You can use it, at the time of check out or in some cases it could be the early tip as a reward for good services.

• A tip to driver varies from 700 to 1000 INR depend on the service. Similarly, you can also give a tip of 50- 100 INR/ Bag to porter, who help to carry your luggage.

Shop SMARTLY

Shopping in India will be a complete entertaining part. You've good options for your selection in a form of available variety.

• In the local markets, you can get the chance to bargain, you can easily compare prices and get the best deals according to money and quality.

• Try to use convenient and easily acceptable option of cash, instead of card payments in local markets.


• In case of shipping never forget to collect receipts of shipment and try to buy from reputed names for a suitable arrangement up to your destination.

Toilets

If we talk about the public toilet facility in India then it is not so reliable till the date. So, try to use the toilets of your hotels and restaurants apart from the public toilets. Never forget to carry toilet paper with you. Apart from such options, if you are in problem then Sit or Squat is a useful app to easily find out the proper nearby toilet facility in your location.

Important Tips during sightseeing:

It must be in everyone's habit for the care and betterment of your own and any other country. So, try to follow such basic guidelines during your visit to India.

• Don't use photography in the prohibited areas because there are many places in India where photography is not allowed and need permission with specific charges which vary from still, video or mobile.


• Respect the local people and follow the legal rules.


• Avoid drinking and smoking in public areas because it may charge high penalties.


• Save your time with the proper information about the closing days of specific monuments, museums, archaeological sites, historical attractions or any Government Institutions.


• Don't encourage beggars by showing sympathy and giving money to them.


• Get the proper confirmation about your entry into religious centers from local tourist information center because some temples are not allowed to enter Non-Hindus.


• Follow the rules before to enter religious centers because in most of Hindu & Jain temples, leather article such as purses and belts are not allowed.

Some other suggestions

• For any emergency support, always carry extra copies of your photographs and keep photocopies of your passport and other legal identities with you.


• For the local transfers, pre-paid taxi services are a better option because in India there is no rule for fixed fares. So, avoid bargaining and rate card issues and try the better option of pre-paid taxi services.


• Avoid carrying a big amount of cash with you. Use ATMs services or other instant banking favorable options where most of the international cards are accepted and you can easily exchange your amount into Indian currency.


• Follow the proper VISA formalities, whether you are under Tourist Visa, Business Visa, Student/ Employment Visa, Entry Visa or Transit Visa.

PLAN YOUR INTERNATIONAL VISIT 'WITHOUT VISA' OR 'VISA ON ARRIVAL'

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Traveling Tips Before to Visit INDIA

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From the ancient times, India has been the focal point of the world. Few of world's most imperative religions has begun from this land. Buddhism was at one time the overwhelming religion and the several structures of Buddha monasteries and stupas were like an extraordinary example from the past. Around 8th century AD, with the approach of Hinduism, the work of wonderful architectural marvels was noticed through the response of several Hindu rulers like Pallavas and Cholas. Similarly, Rajputs was famous due to their magnificent strength and the construction of different hill forts in Rajasthan for the security purposes.

During the period of Muslim rulers in the 11th century, the land of India was surprisingly got a blend of Persian and Afghan architecture within the exciting style. And from the time Indians being able to add finest Islamic architectures in their history. One can also cover various Churches Which were constructed in European style and have the influence of Dutch, Britishers, French and Portuguese artwork. With this huge variety, you can also discover India on the basis of architectural wonders-

Ajanta & Ellora Caves, Aurangabad, Maharashtra

On the religious theme, such architectural brilliance was a major construction of 2nd century. With a total count of 30 in number, these Ajanta & Ellora caves were basically centered around Buddha and have several paintings crafted on its ground from the past time. Ellora caves are popular due to their presentation in a form of rock cutting and which depicts the different beliefs related to Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.

Their ornamentation and content gives the indication on the elaborate workmanship from the past. As a part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, these exotic caves present the architectural brilliance of India from the past times.

Ruins of Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi, Karnataka

Hampi, a Group of Monuments are declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hampi, the Ruins of Vijayanagara Empire surely grasp your attention toward the magnificent effort of Indian architecture. The complex of Vitthala temple with 56 musical pillars at Hampi, has an extraordinary construction feature within its built.

When you struck a single pillar, every pillar emits an interesting musical tone. Other pilgrimage attraction of Hampi is Virupaksha temple in the ancient city of Vijayanagara which has three towers risen up to 160 ft.

Iron Pillar of Delhi, Delhi

Rust proof Iron Pillar was a major construction of 4th century A.D with a Sanskrit inscription in Brahmi script. It seems this wonderful construction is like a taunt at the experimental progression of current scientific world. Its engraving bears that it was constructed in the honor of the Hindu god, Vishnu.

In spite of the fact that a great deal of research has gone into discovering how this iron pillar has withstood quality which resist it from corrosion for almost 1600 years. Nobody has possessed the capacity to think of a delightful clarification to this marvel. Doubtlessly, Iron Pillar of Delhi was a major achievement in the work history of Indian iron-smiths.

Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh

The group of temples at Khajuraho is a major center of attraction for tourists. It is really a unique group of architecture. This significant group of temples along with its erotic carvings is in the dedication of divine beings like Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and several Gods.

Out of 85 there is only 22 have survived till the date. With a centre of major attraction, this artwork is basically committed towards the physical affection, love and pleasure. From the outside, the temples are luxuriously enhanced with sculptural embellishments which win all inclusive deference for their energetic, delicate and youthful magnificence.

Nalanda Ruins, Nalanda, Bihar

Nalanda was an antiquated center of higher learning in India. This first learning institute of India is situated in Bihar, and was majorly influenced by Buddhist teachings.

The immense library of Nalanda University was vast to the point that it is accounted for to have blazed for three months after the intruders set flame to it, with a huge damage and destruction to the religious community and monks.

Great Stupa at Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh

Sanchi is renowned ideal of Buddhist culture. In around 3rd century BCE, this one of the oldest freestanding stone structure in India was constructed during the ruling era of Emperor Ashoka. The place safely preserves the relics of holy Buddhist monks.

With the great dimensions of 120 ft across and 54 ft high, sanctum is enclosed by the Pradakshina Path with its four sided gates which present themes related to Buddha's life. This landmark is the motivation for several Hindu and Buddhist constructions that were inherent in the next hundreds of years.

Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh

As a part of seven wonders, discovery of India is incomplete without the visit of Taj Mahal. With its amazing history related to a Love symbol, it is a world famous architecture which requires around 22 years in its entire construction. It is a great blend of Hindu and Indo-Islamic architecture which was constructed in 17th century as a present of Royal empress Mumtaz Mahal from his husband- a great Mughal emperor Shah Jahan.

Beautiful Taj gives a view of amazing scenery with its huge marble terrace, a dome flanked by four minarets and the cenotaph of queen inside the dome.

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Discover India on the Basis of Architectural Wonders

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Sometimes, simple travel becomes a memorable journey. It is a great chance for a traveler to get himself. Apart from any adventure or amusement, some specific visits has relation to your thoughts and the things which can nourish your mind & soul. It is your own time when you can explore the colors of nature, discover the hidden facts and even can get the answers of your own questions.

There are few places in the world which have the ability to offer strength to your inner. Similarly, Buddhist Circuit is a journey, which motivates to know about the secrets of life and bring closer to the teachings of humanity and inner enlightenment. Here, we cover the major Buddhist sites of India which helps to get a spiritual delight for your soul. So, get ready to become a part of this journey with us-

Leh, Jammu and Kashmir

If you want to really explore the Buddhist culture on Indian land, then Leh is a place which preserves most distinct examples of Buddha imprints in a form of richest, oldest and largest monasteries. Additional, Leh is a scenic land which offers you a feel of moon like surface.

So, it is a perfect way to learn the teachings and get help to nourish your soul. On this tranquil land, you can visit Thiksey Monastery, Hemis Monastery, Phyang Monastery, Lamayuru Monastery and many others. In the month of June and July, Hemis Festival is also a way to get spellbound feel.

Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh

Dharamsala–Mcleodganj is a renowned place to gain a wonderful spiritual experience. Under the perfect backdrop of immense natural beauty, you can get a blessed feeling with meditation and chant sessions, in popular Buddhist centers like Namgyal Monastery, Gyuto Monastery, Nechung Monastery and many others.

With the grand Bhuddism colors, Dharamsala is also famed as a Dalai Lama's official residence. Get ready to collect a spiritual treasure on this calm and peaceful land.

Spiti, Himachal Pradesh

Enjoy a beauty of wonderful cultural experience at the popular spiritual site of Buddhism. During this fascinating journey, you can collect several colors for your life.

You can silently spend your time in meditation caves and gain life winning experience. Beautiful monasteries of Spiti are also popular due to their artwork, scriptures and statues.

Mindrolling Monastery, Dehradun

Mindrolling Monastery is an extravagant Buddhist center. This holy school of Tibetan religion helps you to gain knowledge and history of Buddhism. This marvelous holy place is one of the six major monasteries of Nyingma School of Buddhism.

At this prominent Buddhist Indian institute, you can also practice Buddhism study. You can also witness a tall sacred marvel in a form of Great Stupa along with the numerous collection of murals and relics.

Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh

With a great historical significance, Sarnath is a place from where Lord Buddha begins his sermons and preaching. Even place has major importance due to its consideration among one of the four sacred Buddhist places in India.

After enlightenment, Lord Buddha gave his first sermon at that place. So, it is a popular site on world map which attracts worldwide tourists.

Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh

After Sarnath, Kushinagar has similar importance due to Mahaparinirvana of Lord Buddha at the age of 81. Here, you can witness a Ramabhar Stupa. It is a place where Lord Buddha was cremated. Even this site has several related things to Buddhism. It is a place where Siddhartha said his last lesson.

You can also visit at Mahaparinirvana temple to view Buddha statue in a reclining posture. Kushinagar as one of the most important Buddhist places also has several stupas, shrines, temples and a museum.

Vaishali, Bihar

Vaishali, a city of Bihar has relation with Buddha, with his 5th year of enlightenment. Due to cultural, religious and historical importance, the place has several relic shrines and stupas.

Similarly, the place holds a major importance due to several Pillars of Ashoka, as an example of fine artwork.

Bodh Gaya, Bihar

In Buddhism, Bodh Gaya was the place where Prince Siddhartha achieved enlightenment underneath a Bodhi tree and got to be Buddha 2600 years earlier. It is the most consecrated spot around the local area which prospers inside the Mahabodhi temple complex, in the midst of a wonderful green setting, its roots inserted in the same soil as its commended progenitor.

As far as blessedness, this minor temple town is to Buddhists what Mecca is to Muslims. There are three Buddh monasteries and various associations offering teachings on Buddhism. Obviously, it draws in a huge number of visitors from around the globe consistently, who seek study, prayer and meditation. Here, you can feel a vibe which has a blend of ascetic serenity and small-town commotion.

Rajgir, (Nalanda) Bihar

Rajgir is a delightful city in Nalanda District, in Bihar attracts the consideration of travelers from everywhere throughout the globe. This site is concealed by rough hillocks and is set in a valley. Also, the peaceful mood of this site will invigorate your mind and soul. It is the destination where Siddhartha is accepted to have given numerous sermons and Lord Mahavir had lived here for quite a while.

It has an engaging history to uncover several secrets. As per the legends, Lord Buddha commonly visited in the peaceful settings of Jivankamaravana Monastery. You can also visit at Vultures Peak- a famous meditating site for Buddhist monks.

Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh

The popular Tawang Monastery is locally known as Gaden Namgyal Lhatse. It was established by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso in the year 1680-81. On the top of the hill, at an altitude of around 10,000 feet, the place gives a look of celestial paradise. It provides a commanding look to entire Tawang-chu valley with its awe-inspiring perspectives.

With the India's largest monasteries, it has a housing capacity of more than 700 monks. This grand, rich and colorful center is a prime place to learn the lessons of spirituality. You can also view the collection of significant scriptures at monastery’s library.

Rumtek Monastery, Sikkim

Rumtek Monastery or the Dharma Chakra Center is one of the popular monasteries in Sikkim. At an altitude of 1550 m, it is one of the significant centers of Kagyu lineage. Even, it is also considerate as imitation of the Kagyu main centre in Tibet. Initially, after the work of 9th Karmapa, it was reconstructed by 16th Karmapa.

This imperative spiritual center also includes shrine, monastery, stupas, nun's hostel and a retreat center in its complex. This largest monastery of Sikkim offers you a rich blend of color and culture within its surroundings. You can attend daily ritual services and chanting during your visit at Rumtek Monastery.

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Buddhist Circuit- A Way to Nourish Yourself with a Spiritual Retreat

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