Top 5 Luxury Hotels in Agra

One of the most visited cities in India, Agra obviously needs no introduction. Once the stronghold of the mighty Mughals, they have left behind indelible marks as some of the priceless monuments in India. The Taj Mahal, a striking structure in white marble is undoubtedly what draws tourists here. Created as a monument of love by Emperor Shah Jehan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the view of the moonlight shining bright on it is simply unmatched. Not just the Taj Mahal, there are several other structures that are interesting to watch out for. From the well-maintained Ram Bagh, the stone-inlayed Itmad-ud-Daula and the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri are definitely to watch out for. To house the huge number of travelers here, there are a huge range of hotels & resorts in Agra. From 5 star luxury hotels to budget accommodations, its all here.

ITC Mughal - Rated 4.3 / 5

Synonymous with luxury, this 5 star hotel in the heart of the city is set amidst 35 acres of landscaped gardens. The proud recipient of a number of awards, the hotel has excellent rooms, fine dining, travel desk, health club and meeting facilities

The Gateway Hotel Fatehabad Road - Rated 4.1 / 5

Part of the Taj Group of Hotels, The Gateway Hotel provides a beautiful stay option near the Taj Mahal. True to the Taj Group, the hotel provides fine rooms, excellent cuisines, business facilities and recreation options.

The Oberoi Amarvilas - Rated 4.7 / 5

Truly the finest hotel in Agra, The Oberoi Amarvilas is built in distinct Mughal style and has a choice of rooms that provides views of the Taj Mahal. The hotel offers the most delicious cuisines, swimming pools, health clubs, business centres and bar.

Trident - Rated 4.3 / 5

Ideally located close to the Taj Mahal, this is one of the most prominent business hotels. From the best of restaurants, health clubs, beautiful rooms and all equipments for businesses, it is no wonder that this is a preferred choice.

WelcomHeritage Hotel Grand Imperial - Rated 5 / 5

Situated a little away from the Taj Mahal, this hotel offers a choice 30 rooms and suites. The hotel is one of the most preferred venues for travelers to this city. With multicuisine restaurants, swimming pool, health club and conference centres, this hotel ensures a comfortable stay.

Top 5 Luxury Hotels in Cochin

Cochin or Kochi is one of the most popular destinations in South India and is the first spot you’d land on in Kerala. It brings together a mix of the traditional with the modern. There are a number of interesting sights that make it a fun place to be in. The views of the Chinese Fishing Nets as they are maneuvered, the old-world Dutch Palaces with their distinctive architecture and the bright stained-glass paintings of the churches, all come together to create the magic that is distinctly Cochin. Adding to this, are the various hotels in Cochin, which range from budget to luxury and even beach-facing hotels. These hotels come fully equipped with restaurants, well-appointed rooms and even spas. Herein we select 5 luxury hotels in Kochi that have always been loved by travelers.

Taj Malabar - Rated 4.5 / 5

Showcasing a blend of Victorian elegance and traditional charm, the Taj Malabar obviously needs no introduction. Part of the world-renowned Taj Hotels, the hotel provides a host of facilities, including spa, fitness centre, restaurants, swimming pool and business centres.

Le Meridien Cochin Resort & Convention Centre - Rated 4 / 5

Belonging to one of the most renowned luxury hotel brands in India, Le Meridien offers 72 state-of-art suites. Among its many facilities are a three-tiered swimming pool, an ayurvedic spa, a fitness club, restaurants and conference halls.

Trident - Rated 4.4 / 5

With 76 rooms and 9 suites, Trident in Cochin is undoubtedly the preferred choice of tourists, especially business travelers. The hotel is built around a central courtyard and has a number of amenities, such as luggage storage facility, swimming pool, meeting rooms, internet access and restaurant.

Casino Hotel - Rated 4.3 / 5

Located on Willingdon Island, this hotel offers the best of both worlds – traditional Kerala charm & modern facilities. Its facilities include health spa, swimming pool, recreation centre and shopping arcade.

The Travancore Court - Rated 3.5 / 5

Located in the heart of the city, this hotel reflects the old Kerala’s aristocracy and the English colonial charm. Its several facilities include complimentary breakfast, Jacuzzi & sauna centre, fitness centre and restaurant.

10 Places that are Every Travellers Favorite

Undoubtedly India is one of the most colourful lands to ever exist. It blends everything together, from seas to deserts and mountains, you can find it all here. While there are numerous places to visit here and many more that are discovered everyday, there are a few locations that would always remain a traveler’s favourite. Here I put down a list of the top 10 destinations that would and should always be visited.

1. Goa

The clichéd title of ‘sun, sand & sea’ still holds true for this place. Endless blue seas with intermittent moss covered rocks, swaying palms and lines of shacks serving the best of cuisines. There are, of course, lots you can do in Goa – whether it’s sun soaking or a tour through the various sights & sounds. The place has a curious mish-mash of it all – churches, throbbing pubs, vibrant carnivals & festivals and temples dedicated to loads of Gods & Goddesses.

2. Ooty

The site of many a Bollywood movies Ooty is simply marvelous. Abounding in natural beauty and so many interesting attractions, this site in South India is obviously a tad crowded. Nevertheless, the views and experience make it totally worth it! From gushing waterfalls, flower-decked gardens, busy lakes with picnicking families and wildlife parks with rare animals. Probably what makes it even more special, is the miles of rolling tea estates amidst misty clouds. Totally worth it!

3. Agra

Now this place needs no introduction. Agra is home to the eternal monument of love, the Taj Mahal built by an Indian emperor in memory of his wife. Agra is also the land of the Mughals who gave the country some of its finest monuments. The Agra Fort with its numerous palaces within, the marble memorials and tombs, the brilliant architecture of Fatehpur Sikri and the well-laid out gardens are popular tourist spots. Of course, among all this, one thing surpasses all views – that of the pristine white Taj Mahal shining bright like a beacon on a full moon night. Simply splendid.

4. Shimla

Snowy hills, skiing competitions, quaint markets with smiley Tibetans – there’s not much that can beat these sights. Shimla was once the stronghold of the British and the summer capital of India. Visit it and you’ll know why. The hills are lined with oak and pine trees and thick forests abound in picnic spots. There are a number of British style structures here too, such as the Viceregal Lodge and the State Museum & Library. What tourists really visit in Shimla is The Mall, which is the busiest area of the city with its churches, shopping stalls and food joints.

5. Jaipur

The most colorful city of Rajasthan, Jaipur is a fine blend of everything traditional and modern. The stronghold of the valiant Mewar rulers, they have left their marks here. The beautifully done monuments, palaces and gardens are a fine example of their architecture and craftsmanship. The Hawa Mahal with its hundreds of windows, creamy City Palace and various Havelis with intricate designs are simply surreal. Hear tales of the brave Rajputs, savour some delicious cuisine and watch a traditional puppet show or two – it’s bound to keep you coming back.

6. Darjeeling

Queen of Hill Stations, Darjeeling is like a city from the old Victorian times, complete with cobbled roads, cottages with rose trellis and unending tea estates. With the increase in tourism, the city is mostly crowded whenever you go. But that cannot take away from it its charm. With a huge Tibetan settlement, there are plenty of monasteries in Darjeeling with showcase elaborate designs and architecture. A rather popular place here is the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, which was founded by Tenzing Norgay, the first person to conquer Mount Everest. Of course, tea aficionados have much to do here, what with the lush tea estates here that produce some of the finest teas in the world.

7. Kovalam

This is the land for those who want a holiday mixed with therapies. Kovalam is located in South India and is known for its distinctly crescent-shaped beach, palm groves and an old lighthouse. But what it is most famous for is the ayurvedic massage, which beckons travelers from far & wide. Managed by professionals and experts, there are a host of therapies, including back spas, full body treatments and foot spas. Truly rejuvenating!

8. Udaipur

One of the most striking lands in Rajasthan, Udaipur is rightly the most romantic city in India. While there really is a lot to do here, probably tourists come here most for the views of the beautiful Lake Pichola and the Lake Palace located in the middle of it. Udaipur is great for those who wish to walk the trail through history, through the mazelike markets and picture perfect gardens. Another striking offering here is the rare Classic Vintage Car Collection belonging to the Mewar royal family.

9. Haridwar

Land of the holy, Haridwar is also known as Gateway to the Ganges. No matter when you visit, you are sure to find thousands of people engaged in various activities – offering prayers to the Ganga river, Sun God, yoga on the ghats or simply chit chatting. The most enduring image here is the view of the Ganga Aarti that happens every evening when thousands of lamps are lit and set afloat on the Ganga river, turning it almost ethereal! Of course, what most people visit it for is the Maha Kumbha Mela that happens once every 12 years & Ardha Kumbha that happens every 6 years. It is then that you can see lakhs of devotees arriving here to cleanse their souls and offer prayers.

10. Puri

Land of Lord Jagannatha (Lord of Universe), Puri is visited for its Jagannatha Temple with idols of Jagannatha, Balabhadra and their sister Subhadhra. Tourists visit this holy land to take part in the annual Ratha Yatra or Pulling of the Chariots on which sit these 3 gods and take them around town. Puri is also famous for its beach, which is said to be one of the finest in India – crystal clear and pristine. Of course, whenever here, you must not forget to partake the holy Prasad, which is 56 varieties of different foods prepared for the lord!

Cool Places to Go to This Summer - Matheran

One of the most serene hill stations in Maharashtra, Matheran is located at a convenient distance from Mumbai. This hill town is credited with being one of the few where vehicular traffic is not allowed, thereby preserving its environment. Matheran can be reached easily by a Toy Train and the view from the train as it chugs through the green terrain is easily one of the most mesmerising! This hill retreat is best visited during the monsoon, when the showers turn it into a carpet of pure greenness.

Sights to see:

Lookout Points: Matheran is full of beautiful places to visit, especially a number of lookout points that provide fabulous views of the nearby region. There are close to 30 lookout points with rather quaint names, such as:

• Louisa Point

• Echo Point

• One Tree Hill

• Garbut Point

• King George Point

• Cecil Point

• Alexander Point

• Porcupine Point

• Hart Point

• Little Chowk Point

Mount Berry: This is one of the best spots in the hills to catch glimpses of Neral, another splendid point. There are also several temples here, including the Pisarnath Temple.

Lake Charlotte: This is the most popular spot here, known as a picnic place among families.

This beautiful hill station has a number of hotels & resorts. From budget hotels in Matheran to luxury retreats, it’s all here. When traveling during the monsoons, you must book the hotel in advance to get a confirmed stay.

Cool Places to Go to This Summer - Kasauli

One of the most serene hill stations in India, Kasauli offers the perfect getaway option. Rolling hills lined with chestnut and oak trees and splendid views of the Himalayan range is what makes this land such a favourite one. Add to this delicious Himachali food and friendly locals and you are all set for the trip.

Sights to see:

Monkey Point: One of the highest points in Kasauli, there is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman atop here. This place is also known for the views it provides of the region.

Sanawar: This is home to the 150-year old Christ Church located amidst pine forests. It is also known for the famous Lawrence School, which is one of the prime schools in the country.

Dagshai: Once a picnic spot of the British, today it is a cantonment area with a military public school & barracks.

Baba Balak Nath Temple: This is a busy spot frequented by childless couples who seek his blessings.

A nature lover’s delight, there are quite a huge number of hotels in Kausali. Whether it is resorts or heritage bungalows-turned-hotels, it is all available here.

Cool Places to Go to This Summer - Darjeeling

A chance discovery by two British agents, Darjeeling is simply beautiful with its views of the Kanchenjunga Mountains, pine trees and so many colourful monasteries. Dorje-Ling (Place of Thunderbolt), which rendered it the name ‘Darjeeling’ is simply a paradise, where you can sip your morning cuppa & soak in the sights & sounds of this land.

Sights to see:

The Mall: This is where the action is! With a host of shops selling Tibetan wares and options of trotting on a pony, this is undoubtedly the most popular area in the city.

Monasteries: The land of monasteries, there are several here that will catch your eye. The Ghoom Monastery is famous for its 15-ft high statue of Maitreya Buddha, which is painted in gold & adorned with precious stones. The Bhutia Basti Gompa is a storehouse of ancient Tibetan texts, including the original Tibetan Book of the Dead.

Tiger Hill: This is the most famous spot in Darjeeling, famous for the spectacular view of the sun rise, and the views of Mount Everest on a clear day.

Darjeeling Toy Train: This is a World Heritage site, which traverses from Kurseong to Ghoom. This day-long journey passes through quaint houses and rolling hills.

Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park: This is possibly the only that offers a chance to watch Snow Leopards gamboling with their mothers.

Its colonial past lets you choose from a large number of hotels in Darjeeling. From heritage bungalows-turned-hotels to luxurious modern hotels, you can book as per your requirement & budget.

Cool Places to Go to This Summer - Coorg

Home to a number of interesting trekking spots with quaint names, Coorg is made of lush tea and coffee and spice plantations. The air is fragrant with the smell of cardamom, orange and lemon grass and the land is interspersed with rosewood and bamboo trees.

Sights to see:

Madikeri Fort: Great for catching views of the region, Madikeri has within it a palace, temple, chapel, museum and prison.

Abbey Falls: This is one of the most popular waterfalls of the region, located inside a privately owned coffee plantation.

Dubare Elephant Training Camp: Housing about 15 elephants, you can enjoy 2-3 hours here and indulge in activities such as scrubbing, riding and feeding these tuskers.

Kakkabe: Once one of the most profuse honey-producing regions of India, today it is worth visiting for the highest peak in Coorg and the Igguthappa Temple.

Namdroling Monastery: This is the credited with being the largest Tibetan settlement in India, with the monastery housing 40 ft high statues of Padmasambhava, Buddha and Amitayus.

One of the most popular regions of South India, Coorg is full of hotels and resorts. Some of the best hotels & resorts in Coorg are situated amidst the coffee plantations.

Cool Places to Go to This Summer - Coonoor

A charming hill station, it is quaint, quiet and rather old-world. Located down South, it can often be confused with Ooty. But then it is distinctive in its own self. Sprawling tea estates, misty hills and old bungalows with bougainvilleas growing over the walls – this is what Coonoor is all about.

Sights to see:

Sim’s Park: A beautiful botanical park, it is partially built in Japanese style and has a vibrant range of flowers and plants, some of which have been imported from elsewhere.

Dolphin’s Nose: It gets its name from a rock that is, quite obviously, shaped like a dolphin. This spot is popular for the splendid views of the region around.

Catherine Waterfalls: Visible from Dolphin’s Nose, water gushes down 250 ft!

Droog: Earlier used by Tipu Sultan, this fort is now in ruins. Though the trek to it is quite long, the views from atop is mind-blowing!

UPASI: This is the bi-weekly tea auction that is held by United Planters Association of South India (UPASI) – a true delight for all tea aficionados.

Travelguru offers a choice of hotels in Coonoor. From resorts to hotels offering splendid views of the region, you can get it all here.

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Exclusive Holiday Sale in Goa, Kerala & Himachal

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Long Stay Hotel Deals in Goa by Travelguru

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Trip to Munnar - South India Trail: Part I

As the long road winds around the green hills, my thought is – this must be what heaven looks like. I feel like a 12 year old again, as I attempt catching the clouds that float past. The strong fragrance of cardamom and tea rents the air. Munnar, Here I come…

Munnar is definitely a wonder that God must have carved out at leisure. With rolling green hills and cottage-like settlements in between, it’s simply breathtaking. I am already in love! There’s so much I want to do here and time just seems so less. I check into the Club Mahindra Lake View Resort, with its warm hospitality and beautiful rooms that offer splendid views of the region. 30 minutes later, I am geared up to take a tour of the region. Since I am around for 2 days, it’s relatively easier to plan and visit the numerous sights I’ve read all my life about.

My visit of Munnar starts with Mattupetty, which houses the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project, a dam and lakes. Moving on to Lock Heart Gap, which is another natural wonder. The tea plantations are obviously a part of my explore-Munnar plan and after a much winding path I reached the Kundala Tea Plantations, where it was interesting to watch the entire tea making process. Highlight of plantations that you visit – you can sample some of the world’s finest teas and carry packets home too! :-)

The next day was a relatively relaxed one and along with my guide, I visited the famous Rajamala & Eravikulam National Park, which is famous for the rather endangered Nilgiri Tahrs. Munnar has quite a few churches too, which are noteworthy for their stained glass windows, from where the sun rays stream in and cast a rather ethereal picture. As we move down the hill path again, I ask my guide what other splendor I must not miss out. Prompt comes the reply, ‘Neelakunrinji flowers that cover the mountain in blue. But you are 2 years late. You must come back after 10 years again’. I simply nod.

As I watch the sun dawn over the hills and the river water sparkles endlessly, I realize that the journey is just about beginning. I’ll be back with more details of my South India Trail, so keep following…