SIKKIM
Situated in the lap of Eastern Himalaya
sharing its border with Tibet (North), Nepal  West), Bhutan (East), West Bengal (South),
Sikkim is still being discovered for its unending hidden beauties. Nature, like God, has
been generous, but its generosity has never been as awesome and breathtaking as in
Sikkim. Shangri-La-Tibetan word which, most aptly describes Sikkim.....it means "An
imaginary paradise on earth.
Sikkim, an untouched, timeless land
whose smiling people offer you a welcome of unforgettable friendliness. Sikkim, a land of
extraordinary beauty - soaring mountains, plunging rivers and lush tropical forests,
brilliant with a profusion of vivid flowers, birds and butterflies, and decorated with
verdant terraced hillsides, simple stilted villages and colorful monasteries. Sikkim, a
land of abundance, beauty and adventure. Whether your passion is long treks or short walks
in ever-changing landscape; white-water rafting, or mountaineering amongst the world's
highest peaks; photographing nature's diversity; or just hanging out, meeting
people of other cultures, and enjoying festivals - Sikkim is the destination.
NAINITAL
The first recorded discovery of this
now popular hillstation situated i n Utter Pradesh. was in 1841 when a Britisher, Mr.
Barron, chanced upon the lake. Moved by the scenic beauty of the lake and thickly forested
hills, he constructed a house named Pilgrim's Cottage. It was the first of many residences
which were to transform Naintal into a popular resort. By 1858, Naintal became a
well-known hill station, and within a few years the summer seat of the provincial
government.
Prior to 1839, the valley was covered
by thick forests and inhabited by hill tribesmen. A major landslide in 1880 led to the
formation of the flats, the level ground by the lake, where a variety of entertainment
awaits the traveler. Nainital's attractions range from quiet walks in meadows and forests
of pines and deciduous, to adventure sports well as popular entertainment. This hill
resort can be enjoyed at any time of the year.
MADURAI
Madurai,  located in southern Tamil Nadu
is the second largest city in the state and an important cultural and commercial centre.
Located on the River Vaigai, it is a city with an ancient past. It is over 2500 years old
and was a seat of learning in the Sangam period. Legend has it that when the Pandyan king
was about to name his new city. Lord Shiva appeared and the drops of nectar falling from
his locks gave the city its name - Madhurapuri.
Today, Madurai is noted for its
splendid temple to the goddess Meenakshi and its imposing gopurams soar over the city. The
temple, the center of social and religious activity, attracts thousands of visitors
each year. It is noted for its marvelous hall of a thousand pillars - all of which are
elaborately sculpted. A set of musical pillars carved out of a single block of granite
that emit melodic notes when tapped, splendid mandapas and a large temple tank are all
part of the huge complex. Traditional crafts are still created here in age old fashion and
Madurai is noted for its fine handloom fabrics and beautiful brass lamps.
KUTCH-GUJARAT
Among India's 25 States, Gujarat is the
bourn of some of its most  impressive traditions. And Kutch, ensconced in North-Western Gujarat, is a
microcosm of the country's vibrant cultural diversity. Kutch stands out in splendid
isolation among Gujarat's other districts by its colorful assortment of flora and fauna.
Its rich traditions take provenance from eighteen different tribes, cultures and language
zones.
And for the traveler in search of
beauty and spiritual stimulation, Kutch offers a delectable fare, in complete
collaboration with Nature. What is more, the people of Kutch are renowned for their
temperate nature and warm hospitality. They dress colorfully, walk, talk, and work
passionately, and enjoy life as it comes every day.
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