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Are you planning a trip to India? Are you looking for the best tourist places to visit in Puri, Vaishno Devi, Rameshwaram, Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir, and near Delhi? Look no further! This ultimate guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the top tourist destinations in these areas. From must-visit attractions and top things to do to travel tips and the best time to visit, we've got you covered. So, whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, read on to discover the best places to visit that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Places to Visit in Puri
Puri is a charming coastal city located in the eastern state of Odisha. It is known for its stunning beaches, ancient temples, and vibrant culture. Here are some of the best tourist places to visit in Puri:
Best Tourist Places in Puri
- Jagannath Temple: This temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus and one of the most famous tourist places in Puri. It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple is famous for its annual Rath Yatra festival when the idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra are taken out in a grand procession.
- Puri Beach: This beach is one of the most popular tourist places in Puri. It is known for its golden sand, clear waters, and stunning sunsets. You can take a relaxing stroll, sunbathe, or enjoy various water sports activities here.
- Chilika Lake: This is the largest brackish water lake in Asia and is home to a vast variety of migratory birds. You can take a boat ride here and enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake. It is one of the must-visit tourist places near Puri.
Top Things to Do in Puri
- Attend the Rath Yatra festival: This festival is celebrated in the months of June or July and is one of the most important festivals in Puri. It involves the pulling of chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra. It is a grand spectacle that attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists from all over the world.
- Visit the Konark Sun Temple: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located just 35 km away from Puri and is famous for its exquisite architecture and intricate carvings. It is one of the most popular tourist places near Puri and is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
- Try the local cuisine: Puri is known for its delicious seafood and traditional Odia cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include fish curry, prawn pakora, and chhena poda. You can find these dishes at local restaurants and street food stalls.
Travel Tips for Puri
- The best time to visit Puri is from October to February when the weather is cool and pleasant.
- While visiting temples and other religious sites, dress modestly and cover your head and shoulders.
- Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Always carry a bottle of water and stay hydrated.
Best Time to Visit Puri
The best time to visit Puri is from October to February when the weather is cool and pleasant. The temperature during this time ranges from 16°C to 33°C. This is also the peak tourist season, so make sure you book your accommodation in advance.
Where to Stay in Puri
Puri has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. From luxury resorts to budget hotels, you can find something for everyone. Some of the best places to stay in Puri are:
- Mayfair Waves: This is a luxury beach resort located just a few steps away from Puri beach. It offers world-class amenities and services.
- Hotel Holiday Resort: This is a 4-star hotel that offers comfortable and luxurious accommodation options. It is located close to the beach and offers stunning views of the sea.
- Hotel Shree Hari Grand: This is a budget-friendly hotel that offers basic amenities and is located close to the beach. It is perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
How to Reach Puri
Puri is well connected to major cities in India by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is located 60 km away from Puri. The nearest railway station is Puri Railway Station, which is well connected to major cities in India. You can also take a bus or hire a taxi from Bhubaneswar to reach Puri.
Places to Visit Near Vaishno Devi
Vaishno Devi is a sacred shrine located in the Jammu and Kashmir state, attracting millions of Hindu devotees every year. There are several tourist places to visit near Vaishno Devi, such as:
Best Tourist Places Near Vaishno Devi
- Patnitop: A picturesque hill station located 80 km away from Vaishno Devi, known for its snow-capped mountains, scenic landscapes, and adventurous sports activities.
- Shiv Khori: A holy cave located 80 km away from Vaishno Devi, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is renowned for its natural Shiva lingam.
- Mata Vaishno Devi Temple: Located a few kilometers away from the shrine of Vaishno Devi, this temple is dedicated to the mother goddess.
Top Things to Do Near Vaishno Devi
- Bhairavnath Temple Trek: A challenging but rewarding trek to the Bhairavnath Temple located atop a hill, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
- Raghunath Temple Visit: Visit the Raghunath Temple situated in the heart of Jammu city with intricate carvings and stunning architecture dedicated to Lord Rama.
- Explore Local Markets: Discover the traditional handicrafts, woolen shawls, dry fruits, and local delicacies in the markets of Jammu.
Travel Tips for Visiting Vaishno Devi
- The best time to visit Vaishno Devi is from March to October when the weather is pleasant.
- Ensure to carry warm clothing as the temperature drops significantly at night.
- Book your accommodation in advance as the shrine attracts a large number of devotees.
- Follow the dress code while visiting the shrine.
Best Time to Visit Vaishno Devi
March to October is the best time to visit Vaishno Devi when the weather is cool and pleasant, making it the peak tourist season. Remember to book your accommodation in advance.
Where to Stay Near Vaishno Devi
Jammu offers several accommodation options to cater to all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay near Vaishno Devi:
- The White Hotels: A luxury hotel located a few kilometers away from Vaishno Devi shrine.
- Hotel Jammu Ashok: A 4-star hotel offering comfortable and luxurious accommodation options.
- Hotel Shree Palace: A budget-friendly hotel located close to the shrine, offering basic amenities.
How to Reach Vaishno Devi
The nearest airport to Vaishno Devi is Jammu Airport, located 50 km away. The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi Railway Station, well connected to major cities in India. From Jammu, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Katra, which is the base camp for the trek to Vaishno Devi.
Insider Tips from a Travel Expert
"Visit the Nau Devi Temple in Katra, a beautiful temple complex dedicated to the nine forms of the goddess Durga, located a few kilometers away from Vaishno Devi. If you have time, take a day trip to the nearby hill station of Patnitop, a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the region." - Travel Expert, Rahul Sharma
Top 10 Places to Visit in Rameshwaram
Rameshwaram is a serene island located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India. The place is famous for its ancient temples, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture. Below are some of the top tourist places to visit in Rameshwaram:
Best Tourist Places in Rameshwaram
- Ramanathaswamy Temple: This temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. The temple has 22 holy wells where devotees take a holy dip to wash away their sins. It is famous for its exquisite architecture and intricate carvings.
- Dhanushkodi Beach: This beach is located at the southern tip of Rameshwaram and offers stunning views of the Bay of Bengal. It is also known as the Ghost Town. The place was destroyed by a cyclone in 1964 and the remains of the town can still be seen here.
- Pamban Bridge: This bridge is a marvel of engineering and is the first sea bridge in India. It connects Rameshwaram island to the mainland. The view from the bridge is spectacular, especially during sunrise and sunset.
- Gandhamadhana Parvatham: It is a small hillock located on the way to Ramanathaswamy Temple. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Rama placed his feet on this hill while searching for Sita. The place offers a panoramic view of the entire island.
- Kothandaramaswamy Temple: This temple is located in the town of Dhanushkodi and is dedicated to Lord Rama. It is believed that Lord Rama and Sita stayed here during their journey to Sri Lanka.
Top Things to Do in Rameshwaram
- Take a dip in the holy waters of Agni Theertham: This is a sacred tank located in front of the Ramanathaswamy Temple. It is believed that taking a dip in this tank can wash away all sins. The place is crowded, especially during early morning and evening.
- Visit the Kalam House: This is the former residence of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, the former President of India. It has been converted into a museum and showcases his life and achievements. The place is a must-visit for science enthusiasts and admirers of Dr. Kalam.
- Try the local cuisine: Rameshwaram is known for its delicious seafood and traditional Tamil cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include fish fry, prawn curry, and kothu parotta. The local eateries offer delectable dishes at affordable prices.
Travel Tips for Rameshwaram
- The best time to visit Rameshwaram is from October to April when the weather is cool and pleasant.
- Dress modestly while visiting temples and other religious sites.
- Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Always carry a bottle of water and stay hydrated.
Best Time to Visit Rameshwaram
The best time to visit Rameshwaram is from October to April when the weather is cool and pleasant. The temperature during this time ranges from 17°C to 30°C. This is also the peak tourist season, so make sure you book your accommodation in advance.
Where to Stay in Rameshwaram
Rameshwaram has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. From luxury resorts to budget hotels, you can find something for everyone. Some of the popular places to stay in Rameshwaram are:
- Hyatt Place Rameshwaram: This is a luxury hotel located just a few kilometers away from the Ramanathaswamy Temple. The hotel offers modern amenities and excellent services to its guests.
- Hotel Pearl Residency: This is a 3-star hotel that offers comfortable and luxurious accommodation options. The hotel is located in the heart of the city and is easily accessible to major tourist attractions.
- Hotel Royal Park: This is a budget hotel that offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. The hotel is located near the railway station and is ideal for budget travelers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, India is a country rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a spiritual seeker, there's something for everyone. From the sacred temples of Puri and Vaishno Devi to the serene beaches of Rameshwaram, these places offer a unique blend of spiritual enlightenment and natural beauty. The local cuisine, vibrant festivals, and warm hospitality of the people add to the charm of these places. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to explore the incredible diversity and rich heritage of India. Happy traveling!