North India Tour

A tour to North India starts with the capital of the country--New Delhi. Spread along the western end of the plains of the Ganges, this third largest city of the country presents a unique blend of tradition and modernity. A traditionally rich culture, splendid architecture, historical monuments steeped in past glory, exotic art galleries, beautiful gardens and a vast human diversity is what makes Delhi one of the most sought after destinations for the foreign tourists.

Distinguished by two sheer contrasts, the state comprises of two major parts named Old Delhi and New Delhi. Meandering into the convoluted streets of Old Delhi, you may encounter the ancient Moghul culture. The sparkling and vivid markets of the area, despite their chaotic ambience, are flocked by the visitors round the year. The well-composed and imposing government buildings of the city also exude a thrilling charm.

And it is from here, that you will be taken to the 'Heaven on Earth', Kashmir. The first halt in Kashmir during this Tour to North India comes at Srinagar district. Located about 1730 meters above sea level, Srinagar is right in the center of the Kashmir Valley. Legend says that the valley initially was a lake that was made habitable by Kashyap Rishi, draining out the water.

Attracting hoard of tourists round the year, the salubrious climate and the picturesque setting of the place is furthermore beautified by a unique changing play of the seasons. The Dal and Nagin Lakes are a must visit point in Srinagar where comfortable stays are offered in the form of houseboats.

Around 56 kms South West of Srinagar lies 'The Meadow Of Flowers'--Gulmarg. This enchantingly beautiful and cup shaped valley is spread over an area of 2,730 meters. Owing to its unsurpassable beauty and lush green slopes, this peaceful valley has served as a setting to many Bollywood movies. Offering a clear view of the Nanga Parbat on a clear day, the valley is at its colorful best during spring Bluebells, Daisies, Forget Me Nots and Buttercups blooming everywhere.

From Gulmarg one is moved to the heroic and historical Kargil valley. Famous for the much talked about Indo Pak war in 1999, the district finds a golden mention in the pages of history. Earlier known as Purig, modern day Kargil used to include Suru Valley, Shagh(k)ar Chiktan, Pashk(y)um, Bodh Kharbu and Mulbek(h) in it.

The valley is famous for the Penzi La Pass, which is the highest point on the Kargil-Zanskar Road. About 160 kms from Kargil, the pass is characterized by two small, turquoise, high altitude lakes with camping sites offering awesome views of the adjoining permafrost mountains.

The district that appears next on your itinerary is Leh. Bordered by PoK (Pak occupied Kashmir) in the West and China in the North, Leh is the largest district of India with an area of with an area of 45110 Sq kms lying between an altitude of 32 and 36 degrees North Latitude and 75 and 80 degrees East longitude, Leh is around 434 kms from Srinagar.

Next in line is one of the most important cultural sites of Hiamalayas--Alchi village located in the lower part of Ladakh. Home to some of the exquisite historic monuments and Buddhist monasteries, the place is also dotted with several ancient temples.

The next halt during your North India Tour comes at Jammu--the winter capital of the state of J & K. Founded by King Jamboo Lochan, in the 14th century BC, the city was earlier known as 'Jamboo' only which got distorted as Jammu in due course of time.

About 48 kms from Jammu rests the pious town of Katra, at the foothills of Trikuta Mountains. The town serves as the base camp for visiting the famous shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi that much inspires the religiously inclined people.