51 Famous Temples of India | Memorable Temple Tour of India

Famous Temples of India

India is a famous for its rich cultural heritage, and you will find temples all over the length and breadth of the country which are revered by devotees throughout the year. Several festivals are held in these temples and elaborate rituals followed. Here, we are providing you a brief description of the 51 famous temples of India that deserve mention in the list of anybody wishing to have a temple tour of India.

1. Akshardham Temple, Delhi: Swami Narayan Akshardham Temple displays a millennia of the traditional Hindu culture and spirituality, inspired by Yogiji Maharaj. The temple complex features an Abhishek Mandap, Sahaj Anand Water Show, a thematic garden, and exhibitions. The imposing 10-storey high building has intricate carvings, sculptures and filigrees, bearing witness to the amazing craftsmanship.

2. Badrinath Temple, Uttarakhand: The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and has his dual forms as Nar and Narayan. It was re-established as a pilgrimage site by Adi Shankar in the 9th century, Also known as Badrinarayan, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is significant pilgrimage center of the Vaishnavites. It is most important temples the Char Dhams.

3. Kadarnath Temple, Uttarkhand: The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the destroyer of the universe. The ancient temple has been continuously reconstructed over a period of time. It sits among the snow-capped peaks.

4. Gangotri Temple, Uttarakhand: The temple is dedicated to the goddess Ganga. The temple is located the birthplace of Ganga and is situated amongst the magical surroundings.

5. Yamunotri Temple: Located opposite to Gangotri temple, it is dedicated to the goddess Yamuna who is made of black marble. The sanctity of the place provides a deep feeling of reverence. The temple is located that origin of rive Yamuna.

6. Vaishno Devi Temple: Located in Katra, Jammu, the temple is dedicated to Vaishno Devi also known as Mata Rani who is a manifestation of the goddess Durga. The temple is visited by nearly 8 million devotees each year. It is the second mist visited shrine after Tirumala Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh. The temple has three rock heads, called Pindis, instead of statues.

7. Dwarkadhish Temple, Gujarat: Also known as Somnath and Dwarka Temple, it is devoted to Lord Krishna. There is a flag on top of the temple that shows sun and moon, which is changed five times a day.

8. Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha: The temple has idols of Lord Krishna, his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra. The temple organizes annual Rath Yatra which is witnessed by millions.

9. Sri Ventakateshwara Temple, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh: Situated in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, the temple is dedicated to Venkateswara, a form of Lord Vishnu, who is said to have appeared here to save the mankind from trials and tortures.

10. Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai, Tamil Nadu: It is one of the ancient and largest temples of India. This 2500-year old temple is devoted to the goddess Meenakshi, an avatar of goddess Parvati, and her husband Sundareswar or lord Shiva. It has 33,000 sculptures and 14 gopurams or gateway towers. The temple is an exquisite work of art. It has enormous gopurams towering over the city of Madurai with rich carvings.

11. Chhattarpur Mandir, Delhi: Chhatarpur temple complex in Chhatarpur, near Mehrauli is made of white marble in both North and South Indian styles. The main deity of the temple complex is goddess Durga while there are also shrines for goddess Lakshmi, lord Shiva, Ganesha and Hanuman.

12. Golden Temple: Also known as Swan Mandir or Sri Harmandir Sahib, this the holiest shrine of Sikhs and remains alive with religious fervor throughout the year.

13. ISKCON Temple, Delhi: The temple in Delhi was built in 1998 by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. Chants of Hare Krishna can be heard throughout the day in the temple. It follows a strict standard of worship with six aartis and six bhogas offered to the deities each day.

14. Kashi Vihwanath Temple: Located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the temples with Jyotirlinga, which are 12 in all. It was commissioned in 1780 by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar after earlier being destroyed by the Moghul Emperor Aurangzeb. It is located on the banks of river Ganga in Varanasi, the temple has one of the 12 Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva, also known as Vishwanath or Vishweshwara. The darshan of Jyotirlinga is believed to liberate one from the bondage of maya or the earthy entanglements of the world.

15. Kamakhya Devi Temple, Assam: Dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya, this is a popular and one of the most important destinations of India. This is an important site of trantric worhippers. It is one of the 51 Shati Peethas or divine places of the goddess Shakti. The inner sanctorum or the garbh griha has a yoni-shaped stone filled with water located in a cave below the ground level.

16. Lakshmi Naryan Mandir, New Delhi: Also known as Birla Mandir, the temple is thronged by thousands of devotees on Janmashtmi and Diwali. It is built in the Nagara style of architecture and is adorned with rich carvings, depicting scenes from the Hindu mythology.

17. Lotus Temple, Delhi: Also known as Baha’i House of Worship, it is open to the people of all faiths. There are no idols but huge halls for prayers and meditation. It’s the only temple Baha’I faith in Asia.

18. Somnath Temple, Gujarat: Located in Junagarh district of Gujarat, it is one the 12 temples with Jyotirlingas in India. The temple is dedicated to Somnath or the God of Moon.

19. Siddhivinayak Temple, Maharashtra: Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the temple, it is one of the most prominent temples of Maharashtra. The temple sees the maximum number of devotees on Tuesday. It was constructed in 1801 by Deubai and Vithu Patil.

20. Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Uttarakhand: Located atop a hill at 1675m, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. According the legends, the venom oozed out during Samudra Manthan was ingested by the Lord Shiva at this very place.

21. Amarnath Temple, Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir: This cave temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It enshrines a lingam which is naturally formed on an ice stalagmite. The cave temple is covered with snow for the major part of the year except a short duration of summers. The temple cave is believed to be 5000 years old.

22. Bhairon Mandir, Delhi: The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed to have been constructed by Pandavas. It is unique in the sense that it allows the devotees to offer alcohol to the presiding deity Bhairon, a manifestation of Shiva.

23. Dakshineshwara Kali Temple, Kolkata, West Bengal: The temple was built by Rani Rashmoni in 1855. The temple complex houses 12 identical temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the primary Hindu pilgrimage centers of the Eastern India.

24. Mansi Devi Temple: Located in Hardwar, Uttarakhand, the temple is temple is dedicated to the goddess Mansa Devi. This holy abode of Mansa Devi, a form of Shakti, is said to have emerged from the mind of Lord Shiva.

25. Jwalamukhi Temple, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh: The temple is dedicated to the goddess with a flaring mouth. The natural gas comes from inside the ground which is lit by the priest. The fire is considered as a manifestation of the goddess Jwalamukhi who is worshipped in the form of flames. It is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas located in India.

26. Har ki Pauri, Haridwar, Uttarakhand: Har ki Paudi has a sacred bathing ghat. Taking a dip in the waters here is believed to help achieve salvation of ancestors. The evening prayer or aarti is performed at dusk on the banks of river Ganga which is offers an enthralling experience.

27. Kalighat Kali Temple, Kolkata: Located in Kolkata at the banks of river Hooghly, it is dedicated to the goddess Kali. It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas where various body parts of the goddess are believed to have fallen. It was originally built in the 16th century.

28. Tirumala Tirupati Temple, Andhra Pradesh: The temple located atop Tirumala hills near Tirupati is dedicated to Lord Shiva who is a form of Lord Vishnu. The temple is also known with several other names such a Balaji, Govinda and Srinivasa. It is second in the assets after Sri Padmanabhswamy Temple in Kerala. 50,000 to 100,000 devotees visit the temple each day.

29. Shani Shingnapur, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra: The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Shanidev who is a personification of the planet Saturn. There is a five and a half feet back stone in the open air platform symbolizing Shani. The temple sees a large number of devotees on Amavasya or the New Moon day.

30. Mukteshwara Temple, Bhubaneshwar, Odisha: This gem of Odisha has exquisite carvings and sculptures that adorn it. The temple marks the culmination of all earlier artistic initiatives and stylistic developments in the state.

31. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, Shirdi, Maharashtra: The temple is dedicated to Sai Baba whose teachings combined the elements of Hinduism and Islam. It the largest Sai Baba temples in India, and is flocked by a large number of devotees each Thursday.

32. Nathdwara Srinathji Temple, Rajasthan: Also known as Nand Bhawan or Nandalaya, the temple has an idol of Shrinathji who is self-carved in bas-relief out of a monolithic black marble that provides a mesmerizing sight to the eyes.

33. Jain Temple, Ranakpur, Rajasthan: The temple dedicated to Adinatha is made of light colored marble. It houses 1444 exclusively carved pillars, no two pillars are alike in design and sculpture. The great structure of the temple is well supported with the help of 1400 superbly carved pillars. The temple is designed to use only the batural light for illumination.

34. Hanuman Temple, Delhi: Located in Connaught Place in New Delhi, the temple is believed to be of the day of Mahabharata. Lord Hanuman is worshipped here as Sri Hanuman Ji Maharaj.

35. Khajuraho Temples, Madhya Pradesh: This is a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the seven wonders of India. The breathtakingly beautiful temple is oozes creativity, grace and elegance. It has erotic sculptures and carvings that adorn the exterior of the temple.

36. Brahadeshwara Temple, Thanjavur: Also known as the Big Bull Temple, it was built during the reign of the great Chola Emperor, Raja Raja Chola. This ancient an architectural marvel. The temple was built in 1010 AD and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple dedicated to the Lord Shiva is marks the culmination of the Dravidian style of architecture.

37. Vithala Temple, Hampi, Karnataka: The temple is built in Vijaynagar style of art and architecture. It has a gopuram with a hundred-pillared mandapa. The temple displays the craftsmanship and architectural brilliance of the artists.

38. Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneshwar, Odisha: The temple built in Kalinga style of architecture dates back to 1000 AD. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is built of sandstone and laterite. It is the largest temple in Bhubaneshwara.

39. Konark Sun Temple Odisha: This 13th century construction is a stunning creation of man. The temple is dedicated to Sun God and is magnificence personified. It is built in the shape of an enormous chariot with twelve pairs of wheels and drawn by seven horses.

40. Chamdundeshwari Temple, Mysore, Karnataka: the temple is dedicated to the goddess Durga, the fierce form of Shakti. The hill on which the temple is located is named after the goddess Chamundi, the incarnation of the Lord Shiva’s consort, Parvati.

41. Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is seen reclined on the five-hooded serpent Anantha in a conscious cosmic slumber. Its granite pillars has elaborate carvings that adorn the corridor. It is the wealthiest temple in India, surpassing Tirumala Tirupati Temple.

42. Sabarimala Temple, Kerala: Located in the Western Ghat mountain ranges, it is believed to be the place where god Ayappan meditated after killing the demon Mahishi. The temple sees the largest number of pilgrims,, each year, around 45 to 50 million. It is open Mandalpooja, Makaravilakku and first six days of each Malayalam month.

43. Sripuram Golden Temple, Vellore, Tamil Nadu: The temple has vimanas and ardhamandapa coated in gold both from outside and inside.

44. Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple, Jaipur, Rajasthan: The temple is positioned on a small hill. There is an exotic palace named as Moti Dugngri Palace which belonged to Rajmata Gayatri Devi. It is has intricate stone carvings and exquisite lattice work.

45. Ramanathswamy Temple. Tamil Nadu: Lord Rama is believed to have worshipped Lord Shiva here after crossing over Sri Lanka. The temple located to Lord Shiva has one of the 12 Jyotirlingas where Shiva is worshipped as a Pillar of Light.

46. Jakhoo Temple, Himachal Pradesh: Located in the hilly town of Shimla in Himachal Pradesh, the temple is dedicated to the monkey-god Hanuman. Ii is situated on Jakhoo hill and has a giant 108-feet statue of the lord at the highest altitude of 8100 feet.

47. Belur Math: Located at the west bank of river Hooghly in West Bengal, it is the headquarter of Ramakrishna Math and Mission. Belur Math was founded by Swami Vivekananda, the chief disciple of Ramakrishna Paramhansa.

48. Kanchipuram Temples, Tamil Nadu: It is one of the sacred places in India where devotees can attain Moksha, as per the Hindu mythology. There are three temples, viz. Kamakshi Amman Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple and Varadraja Perumal Temple, all three of them exhibit fascinating piece of architecture.

49. Kanyakumari Temple: Located at Kanyakumari island in Tamil Nadu, the presiding deity of the temple is Kumari Amman, also known as Bhagavathi Amman. The temple is considered to be 3000 years old and presents a mesmerizing scenic beauty due to its location by the side of the vast expanses of ocean.

50. Shore Temple, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu: Located at the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal, it is one of the oldest known temples of South India. The Group of Monuments at the Mahabalipuram is a World Heritage Site. The 8th century temple was built under the patronage of Pallava rulers.

51. Virupaksha Temple, Hampi, Karnataka: The temple is dedicated to Lord Virupaksha, a form of Shiva. This UNESCO World Heritage Site hold an annual chariot festival.

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Check out these Easy/moderate trekking options near Bangalore

Trekking over weekends has become the most desirable activity of the millennial generation whether solo or in groups. With so many trekking places near Bangalore, this city has become a trekker’s haven. Here is a list of a few easy to moderate trails you can venture on your coming break.

1. Savandurga Hill

The Savandurga hill is located 48 km. away and is one of the most popular trekking destinations around Bangalore and is extremely popular. The Karigudda and the Billigudda trail are the two trekking trails that run up to Savanadurga. The trek along Biligudda takes you through the ruined fort built by Kempe Gowda and the climb up to the fort tower can be a bit challenging. Adventure lovers, on the other hand, will find the Karigudda trek to be satisfying. People head here for a night trek and to catch the sunrise.

Source: Thrillophilia

2. Nandi Hills

There are several resorts in Bangalore, but if you are staying towards the Bangalore International Airport, trekking up Nandi Hills should be marked on your calendar. There are two trekking routes to the Nandi Hills. One of the trails lies to the north of the Nandi hills and the other lies to the south of the Nandi hills. Several trekking enthusiasts regularly come to this hillock before sunrise and trek their way to the top, traversing through picturesque terrain at a tantalizing altitude with the cool morning breeze hitting their face surrounded by unpolluted lush greenery and a landscape that is hard to forget. Given the scenic route, a steady terrain and the enticing climb, this trek is also popular because it is of very moderate intensity and can be undertaken by almost anyone comfortable with walking. If you have time on your side, make a weekend of it with a stay at the amazing resort Discovery Village at the foot of Nandi Hills.

3. Skandagiri

Skandagiri, an ancient mountain fortress stands at an altitude of about 1350 m and is a sought after night trek around Bangalore. Trekkers also go there for camping, bird watching and taking in breathtaking sunrise from the top. The Skandagiri trek is only moderately difficult and has two routes to reach the base of the hill. Take a detour from the road that leads to Nandi Hills or get in from Chikballapur. Hundreds of people gather at Papagni Temple at the foot of the hill on Saturday and Sunday mornings to watch the sunrise. This climb is recommended at dawn or on a full-moon night. On the uphill trek, you will also encounter a cave at the base of the hill and another midway to the top.

4. Anthargange

Not more than 80 kms from Bangalore, Anthargange is a tourist magnet with religious significance, nature galore and a beautiful trekking trail. Famous for the Anthargange Caves and Temple it is a popular pilgrimage site and ideal for night trekking around Bangalore. The temple stands amidst thick vegetation and is a scenic splendor. The Anthargange Caves which are on the peak are about an hour trek from the temple and all the caves can be easily explored by foot. Interestingly, some of these caves are large and provide for a good campsite, with many groups opting to camp here after their trek up the hill.

Source: Thrillophilia

5. Madhugiri

Madhugiri in Tumkur district is famous for the second largest monolithic rock hill in Asia after Savandurga. It lies at an altitude of 3,930 feet and is gaining popularity as a trekking destination from Bangalore. On your climb, you will find the Madhugiri mud fort on the slopes and a temple of Gopalakrishna at the top of the hill. This trek is of moderate to difficult level and takes about 1.5 hours one way, but it is definitely worth your while.

6. Makalidurga

The hill fort Makalidurga is situated near the village of Makali 61 kms from Bangalore. In recent years, this trail has gained momentum, with many trekkers opting for a night trek. You can find a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna at the foot of the hill. This trek is definitely a must-try if only to behold the lakes on either side, the elegantly curving trail and the railway track below, from the hilltop. This is a moderate trek and though the trail is still not very popular, the experience it offers is unforgettable.

Source: Plan the Unplanned

Irrespective of the difficulty level, trekking is an activity for people of all ages. The thrill of scaling the height, feeling nature in all its glory while bonding with your mates makes you want to definitely come back for more.

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Seven Tourist Places In Bangalore Worth Visiting

Bengaluru (also called Bangalore), India’s Silicon Valley, is the capital of Karnataka and known for its parks and nightlife. If you are visiting Bangalore on business, extend your stay and if you are an expatriate, having recently moved to this city, mark your diary with the following tourist places in and near Bangalore that are a must-visit.

1. Bangalore Palace

The Majestic Bangalore Palace, reflecting Tudor and Scottish Gothic architecture holds testimony to heritage and beauty of an era gone-by. This regal palace was built in 1878 and spreads across 45,000 square-feet. The carvings on the walls in the interior and exterior of the beautiful wooden structure showcase tales of the extraordinary royal culture. The opulent ballroom, mesmerizing Darbar hall, innumerable exotic paintings, even the granite seats encrusted with blue ceramic tiles on the ground floor, vine-covered walls, transport you to the elegant splendour of a powerful dynasties of South India. Audio tapes in Hindi and English are available to understand its history.

2. Bannerghatta National Park

Located 22 km away from city-centre, Bannerghatta National Park is an asylum for a large variety of flora and fauna. Sprawling over 104.27 sq. km, this park includes the country's first butterfly park, an aquarium, zoo, Children's Park, Crocodile Farm, Snake Park, Prehistoric Animals' Park and a museum. You can spot elephants, leopards, jackals, foxes, wild boar, sloth bears, Indian gazelle, spotted deer, porcupine, cobras, Asiatic Lion and the Royal Bengal Tiger while doing the safari. There are several resorts in Bangalore, but if you are staying at the amazing Discovery Village, be assured that they will organise your local tours, bird watching, nature trails and jungle safaris.

3. Lal Bagh Botanical Garden

Renowned for its botanical artwork, this garden is a haven for nature lovers and a must visit for all tourists. Lal Bagh sprawls across 240 acres in the heart of the city and has nearly 1,854 species of plants including rare species of French, Persian and Afghani origin. The Lal Bagh Rock which is over 3000 million years old is found here and is a major tourist attraction. The garden also houses a number of birds such as Myna, Parakeets, Crows, Brahminy Kite, Pond Heron, Common Egret and Purple Moor Hen.

Source: Goibibo

4. Cubbon Park

Cubbon Park is 300 acres of dense green bliss, housing more than 6,000 trees and an ideal place for nature lovers and picnickers. In addition to being the perfect place to veg-out, you can also visit some of the major structures of the city such as the Attara Kacheri, Cubbon Park Museum, Sheshadri Iyer Memorial Park and the Bangalore Aquarium, the second largest aquarium in India here.

Source: kerosene.digital

5. Vidhana Soudha

Described by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru as 'a temple dedicated to the nation', Vidhana Soudha stands 150 feet tall and boasts of an elegant and truly exquisite Neo-Dravidian style of architecture. It houses the State Legislature and the Secretariat of Karnataka and is one of the most popular attractions in the lively and colourful city of Bengaluru. It prides on being the largest state legislative building in the country sporting four entrances in all four directions and four floors above the ground level and one below it. It is counted as one of the most magnificent buildings in the city impressing and intimidating the beholder.

6. ISKCON Temple

Located in Rajajinagar, ISKCON Temple is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna. Apart from a religious shrine, ISKCON temple is a cultural complex known for its activities of engagement involving ardent devotees of Lord Krishna, where the temple community organises songs, recitals, lectures and prayer services. A must visit for the spiritually initiated.

Source: Goibibo

7. MG Road

One of the busiest roads in Bengaluru, MG Road is always abuzz with recreational and commercial activities and is a one-stop destination for shopping or hanging-out. Whether you’re looking for traditional handicrafts, silk saris, cutlery, bone china sets, jewellery, clothes or books, you can find it all here. Church Street that runs parallel to this road is a foodie’s paradise, with a plethora of restaurants and cafes offering varied cuisines. MG Road is a must visit when you're in the city, where you can shop by day and party by night, dancing till you drop in any of the high-end pubs in and around this street.

These and many more such attractions make Bangalore a coveted holiday destination. So next time you’re in the city, go ahead and mix business with pleasure, you won’t regret it.

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A Trip to Shirdi with my extended family

Most people confuse a trip to a holy destination as a pilgrimage. While it might or might be true some times, a visit to a temple town can also be defined as an experiential trip. Like the one, I recently made to Shirdi with my parents, grandparents, and aunts. It was my first trip to Shirdi and the first ever with my grandparents.

The first hurdle of traveling in a big group is to find an economical transport solution, particularly, when you have elderlies traveling with you. After a lot of online searching, I found the Tempo Traveller price in Pune to be quite cheap.

The road to Shirdi

Shirdi lies at 186 KM from Pune city. We left Pune before daybreak, so we could reach the Sai Baba Temple before noon. After crossing Hinjewadi, we followed NH 60 for about an hour and a half (roughly 140 KM). From this point, the landscape completely changed. The cityscape was far behind and we were passing through the rural interiors of Maharashtra. Although the views would have been much better, had it been monsoon, the pre-summer landscape was quite scenic. We were on the Sangamner – Kopargaon Road and had to exit the highway and take the country roads. The red, dusty tracks were lined with sugarcane fields and sparsely foliaged trees, which was a beauty in itself. I had mostly traveled around the coastal regions of the state and this was a very different view of Maharashtra for me.

We finally reached Shirdi after nearly four and a half hours. We checked into a small hotel near the main temple area and freshened up before heading for the darshan. My aunt had managed to do online registration for the viewing so we could avoid the long queues and make it easier for my grandparents. Fortunately, it was a weekday morning and there was much lesser crowd than what would be on a weekend (or Tuesdays) or any other festival day. But it was not empty either. It was remarkable to see devotees and pilgrims from different parts of the country, traveling all the way to get darshan. Faith is indeed a magical thing.

A tour of the temple

The Sai Baba Sansthan Temple is the main attraction of the town and is what defines Shirdi. The huge complex spread across 200 square meters. The overall structure was quite simplistic in nature but had a very warm vibe about it. Once we entered the premise, it was a stark contrast. The interior walls, pillars, and even the ceilings were covered in gold, with a grand chandelier handing right over the main altar. In the middle of a small marble enclosure sat the stone idol of the holy saint. The shrine was off-limits to visitors but one could get a view up close from about an arm’s distance. With our online booking, we could skip the mainstream queue but had to wait nevertheless to reach the priest who was doling out prasad and blessed the offerings given by devotees. I couldn’t stop marveling at the grandeur of the place. As we drew closer, to the altar, I saw the Samadhi in front of the shrine, also cordoned off from the visitors. It is said that this was where Sai Baba took his last breath and left for the heavenly abode. It was carved out of marble and covered with bright orange cloth.

Soon, we finished our darshan and moved to explore the temple complex.

We headed to the Gurusthan – a marble enclosure built under a Neem tree on the premise. Gurusthan, or ‘the seat of the teacher’ was where Sai Baba was first seen. He would sit under the neem tree and share his teachings with his very first followers. Around the corner from that site, was the sacred fire or Dhuni. It is believed that the fire was lit by Sai Baba and is so miraculous that it never dies.

The sun was getting hotter and we decided to head back to the hotel for lunch and some rest.

A divine ending to the day

Later in the evening, we came back to the temple to view the aarti session. This prayer session is said to be one of the most divine experiences at the temple. And when it happened, I could see why. It was followed by a puja and ended with offering prasad to the devotees.

Throughout the trip, my grandfather told me fascinating stories about Sai Baba and his life, and the experiences of people that he had heard of. I was truly awed by the anecdotes, the sight of the temple and the overall energy of the place.

When it comes to visiting such holy places, every season is a good season, and every time is a good time. We had no particular objective but to experience a holy place as a family, which gladly, we could successfully achieve.

Travel tips:

• If you are traveling solo or with a lesser number of people, you can book a dependable Pune to Shirdi cab, which you can keep with you for the day or overnight stay.

• The best time to visit Shirdi is either late winters or after the monsoon.

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Top 7 Reasons to Visit Rome

Rome is the capital of Italy and is a destination that features on many people’s bucket list. The city of Rome has a long history as it was founded in the year 753 BC and is home to some of the richest culture that you will struggle to find anywhere else in the world. From the Colosseum to the independent Vatican City-state that resides within Rome, the capital of Italy is one of the most impressive cities you can visit.

Rome is a unique and unforgettable place, and a vacation here will be an experience that will stay with you for years to come. If you aren’t quite convinced enough at how amazing Rome is, then here are seven reasons why you should visit Rome.

Seven Reasons to Visit Rome

Art and Culture

Rome, along with the rest of Italy, is one of the culturally richest countries in the world thanks to the influence and power of the former Roman empire that dominates much of the country’s history. Rome is very proud of its heritage, and around every corner in Rome you will see a museum, palace, or art gallery boasting a huge collection of both old and new artworks. Also, many of the old villas that historical noble families used to live in are now open to the public as a form of museum so that you can get an idea of their lives.

Accommodation

One of the best things about visiting Rome is that you can enjoy everything the city has to offer, no matter what your budget; from the luxury boutiques that are available in the Central Station region of the city, to the hostels that are available in the Esquilino area at a cheaper price, there is something for everyone.

While the hustle and bustle that exists in Rome can seem confusing and chaotic, you will eventually become pleasantly surprised at how close everything is so that you can walk to most places of interest. If you are heading to the city of Rome to enjoy all the romance that it has to offer, then you may want to stay in the hilltop location of Aventine Hill which is very popular amongst honeymooners. This is a more exclusive area of Rome so there aren’t that many hotels there, which makes it a great private area of the city to enjoy with your other half.

Endless History

For your first time visit to Rome, you have to explore the endless amount of history that the city has to offer. You should be sure to visit the historic center where you can experience the medieval streets, vibrant bars and restaurants, as well as the buzzing atmosphere.

The three main historical parts of Rome that are essential sightseeing areas are Ancient Rome, the historic center and the Vatican. Centered around the Colosseum, Ancient Rome is home to many ancient ruins. You should be sure to check out these tours of Rome to ensure that you experience everything that the amazing city has to offer.

The Fountains

Rome is home to one of the most well-known fountains in the world, the Trevi Fountain, and it was designed by Italian architect and designer Nicola Salvi in the year 1762. It is one of the oldest water sources to exist in Rome and used to provide the water for the Roman baths. Despite the creation of this masterpiece back in 1762, he wasn’t the original architect, but Pope Clemens XII held a contest for a new design for the foundation back in 1730 and Salvi won.

Top Tip: It is illegal to get the coins that are thrown into the fountain and people have been arrested for this offense in the past. The money is used towards a supermarket program to help provide the poorest of Rome’s people with food.

Fashion

Rome is one of the fashion capitals of the world, and it is more than fair to say that the Italians know a fair bit about fashion and clothes. Therefore, if you see yourself as a bit of a fashionista yourself, then you will be pleased to know that you will be surrounded by the amazing pieces of fashion provided by the likes of Valentino, Gucci and Dolce and Gabbana.

The ‘Made in Italy’ stamp is held with pride all over the world, so where better to experience everything that is fashion than in the Via del Corso, which is great for the budget-friendly shopper, or the Via dei Condotti, if you fancy treating yourself to something special during your trip!

The Weather

The weather in Rome is well-known for being mild all year round, which makes it a great destination that you can enjoy in every season. Each season in Rome has its own unique selling point, from enjoying the sunny weather with a glass of wine outside an Italian bar in summer to feeling festive in the winter months with the Christmas atmosphere. However, it can get very warm in Rome in the summer months so don’t forget to pack your sunscreen.

Wine and Food

Eating and drinking in Rome is quite affordable and many restaurants provide an unlimited buffet style lunch, but this takes place mostly on the weekdays rather than weekends. You can get these buffet style lunches for as little as €9 in some areas of the city. While in Rome you should be sure to taste as much of the delicious Italian breads, meats, and wine as possible!

If you make a visit to the Vatican, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining out options. But if you really want to immerse yourself in the local culture, be sure to pay a visit to Arlu, a family owned restaurant where Italians spend up to three hours indulging in homemade pasta dishes, freshly made desserts and locally produced wines.

There are many reasons why you should visit Rome, but whether you want to spend your trip exploring the historical attractions, or simply enjoying an Italian meal sat outside in the sun, there is something for every type of traveler to enjoy.

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6 Tips for Enjoying the Perfect Beach Holiday in Dubai

Although the Burj Al Arab is Dubai’s most famous tourist attraction, this emirate has more to offer to visitors: its beautiful beaches. The city has so many must-visit beaches that having a beach holiday here should definitely go on your travel bucket list.

Booking a room at one of the first-rate beachside hotels in Dubai such as properties by JA Resorts & Hotels is a good start to enjoying an excellent beach holiday in this city. And aside from this, you can have the perfect seaside getaway in Dubai by following these useful tips:

1. Choose the right time of year to schedule your beach holiday

Dubai enjoys a sunny, warm-to-hot weather all year round, which means you can enjoy hanging out at the beaches here any time of the year. However, there are certain months that are hotter than others and will make staying outside unbearable.

The best time to have a coastal vacation in Dubai is during March and November. During these months, the city experiences bearably warmer and even cooler temperatures.

Because of this, you can take a dip in cooler water, enjoy walking barefoot on the sand, and stay longer under the sun without any worries of getting a sunburn.

2. Pick the right hotel or resort

As already mentioned, staying at a hotel or resort close to the beach will help you have an incredible getaway. If you’re still looking for your holiday accommodation, here are some points you should consider:

● Free use of swimming pools

● Wi-Fi connection

● Complimentary access to the gym or fitness center

● Restaurant or dining options

● Ease of access to the beach

● Proximity to other tourist spots or places of interest such as a golf course, park, etc.

● Other amenities and services (spa, laundry, babysitting if you have kids, etc.)

Staying at an all-inclusive beach resort hotel is another option you can consider so that you won’t have to worry about your meals and other activities you have to try during your holiday.

3. Pack all the essentials

When packing for your trip to Dubai, bring only light, cool clothes so that you can feel comfortable whenever you’re out. And since you will be spending a lot of time on the beach or at the pool, your swimwear should definitely have its own place in your suitcase.

However, you will only be allowed to wear your swimsuit when you are spending time at a private beach or pool. If you want to take a dip at a public beach, wear a top and a pair of shorts that do not expose a lot of skin.

You can also put on a kaftan or beach cover-up. Make sure you cover up when leaving the beach or pool to go back to the hotel, too.

Don’t forget to bring sunblock to avoid the harsh effects of the sun. Make sure you apply this to your exposed skin liberally and frequently.

4. Visit other beaches

Aside from spending time at the shoreline near the hotel or resort where you are staying, visit Dubai’s other splendid beaches, too. These are:

● Sunset Beach

● JBR Beach

● Kite Beach

● Al Mamzar Beach Park

● Black Palace Beach

● Hidden Beach

These beaches are home to great restaurants, cafes and shops. You can try a variety of fun, exciting water sports and activities on these beaches as well such as:

● Surfing

● Jet skiing

● Paddleboarding

● Tubing

● Scuba diving

● Snorkeling

5. Take in some other sights

Make the most of your holiday in Dubai by visiting other well-known landmarks and places of interest. Some of these places you should stop by are:

● Burj Al Arab

● The Dubai Mall

● Mall of the Emirates

● Burj Khalifa

● Dubai Fountain

● Dubai Aquarium

● Dubai Museum

● Dubai Creek

● Deira

6. Explore the local food and entertainment scene

Lastly, there are thousands of restaurants in Dubai that cater to different tastes and budgets. Whether you want to try a luxurious dining experience, sample authentic Emirati cuisines, enjoy street food or eat like a local, you will find what you are looking for in this city. You won’t have any difficulties satisfying your craving for any type of food here.

Dubai’s night and entertainment scenes are also unique and exciting and, as such, worth exploring as well. The city boasts of trendy bars, pubs, nightclubs and speakeasies you have to visit.

Also, many coffee shops and restaurants are open until midnight or later, so you can opt to hang out at these places to have a feel of Dubai’s nightlife.

Dubai has plenty to offer all beach lovers. And once you’ve had your fill of sand and surf for the day, you will still find a lot of fun and amazing things to do here.

AUTHOR BIO

Thomas Grundner is the Vice President of Sales and Marketing for JA Resorts & Hotels. He has more than 20 years of expertise in the hospitality and leisure industry – across international markets including Germany, Egypt and Spain. Grundner oversees all sales, marketing and revenue efforts as the company continues to build on its key growth and development strategies and further cultivates its unique blend of "Heartfelt Hospitality" and "Casual Luxury.

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Dubai’s Past to Present: 4 Reasons to Visit the New Marsa Al Seef

Even if you have been to Dubai several times before, you still have reason to visit the place again in the future. Why? It’s because a new tourist destination called Marsa Al Seef is now open to give you the modern experience of leisure you know and love, along with an enriching glimpse into the city’s past.

As a bustling hub spreading over 1.8 kilometers, this vibrant new location is also the home of Dubai’s heritage and culture. Set in an area filled with historical sites, Marsa Al Seef is the ultimate destination for those who love to dine and shop while also learning a bit of valuable Dubai history.

From the Past to the Present

In Marsa Al Seef, you can revel in the comfort and convenience of a modern city while rediscovering Emirati culture. This new attraction rests heavily on Dubai’s contemporary elements, but at the same time pays homage to what the city once was. This strip is split into two regions areas: one is a modern site while the other is modeled after Old Dubai.

As you walk the streets of Marsa Al Seef, it will feel as if you are in the ’60s. To truly enjoy this magnificent place, you have to spend more than a day exploring it.

So make sure to book rooms at nearby Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa, a splendid 4-star hotel in Dubai. Once you’re all settled, let these four reasons to stroll through Marsa Al Seef inspire your plans for leisurely time in the City of Gold.

1. Good Food

Who doesn’t love to eat? In every travel destination, seeking out the places with the best eats should be part of the itinerary. And in Marsa Al Seef, you can take your pick from various menus inspired by amazing cuisines from all around the world. There’s sure to be something to satisfy your craving, what with almost 500 dining concepts positioned for the development.

Here’s a special treat: As you enjoy your food and drinks, you can also feast your eyes on the sight of traditional dhows making their way up and down the Dubai Creek from your table.

With connected paths leading tourists to the splendid waterway, you can also consider the option to plan a romantic dinner with your partner or a casual family meal with your loved ones.

2. Old World Charm

Marsa Al Seef gives you a chance to witness a heritage area while enjoying a contemporary space. The new attraction celebrates the humble beginnings of Dubai Creek as a famous coastal pearl-diving base. The region’s proud culture is in full display while introducing modern elements that emphasize the Creek’s natural beauty.

Since it was once a vibrant entrance to the Gulf’s successful pearl-diving port, Marsa Al Seef wants visitors to feel the Creek’s legendary presence. As it pays tribute to old-fashioned way of life, the place also features an regional crafts, textiles, and Emirati art spaces. A visit to this place is a hands-on experience of Emirati customs and the lifestyles of past Dubai generations.

3. Great Shopping

From locally produced handicrafts to high-end fashion pieces, Marsa Al Seef offers a breathtaking retail experience for the avid shopper. Pick up the perfect gifts or souvenirs or treat yourself to a new outfit or two as you explore. Embrace luxury while you experience and enjoy the finest products from the east and the west.

Gaze at the pristine waters or enjoy the view of the horizon while you shop and do your bargain hunting. Whether it’s traditional crafts or modern products that you are looking for, Marsa Al Seef is a truly satisfying shopping destination.

4. Exciting Events

If you love to take part in special celebrations, then all you need to do is to stay tuned to the events in Marsa Al Seef. People from near and far will be fascinated by the events plaza where various shows and cultural activities regularly take place. Also included are local crafts and art exhibitions, musical shows and many other performances.

How to Get There

Marsa Al Seef is close to Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood and Al Fahidi Fort along the Dubai Creek. If you are going by car, it will only take a few minutes to drive from the Sheikh Zayed Road. You can also access Marsa Al Seef through the Dubai Metro via the Burjuman Station or by taking Dubai Water Taxis.

The development of Marsa Al Seef area is still ongoing, so you can expect that more attractions will soon be available for locals and visitors from all across the globe to try. If you want a Dubai destination that offers both contemporary and traditional experiences, then this is perfect for you. Make sure to spend time at Marsa Al Seef the next time you’re in the City of Gold.

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First Time Flyer from Mumbai to Delhi

Delhi, the national capital and Mumbai, the financial capital of India constitute of their own distinguished culture, lifestyle and tribe. The cities are similar in some respects, yet differ entirely in some others. If you’re a Mumbaikar, you’re entitled to be proud of the city and nothing in the world will please you more than “Aamchi Mumbai” does. However, Delhi has a vibe of its own that doesn’t let you feel estranged, no matter where you hail from. It may be hard to believe all of this unless you experience the wonder that Delhi is. Heading to Delhi from Mumbai isn’t as cumbersome as it used to be anymore. Book cheap flight tickets from Mumbai to Delhi with Jetstay.com. You’ll avail great deals and offers on Jetstay.com making the flight tickets from Mumbai to Delhi cheaper than they already were.

A lot of people commute from Mumbai to Delhi on a daily basis, making it the most popular and populated domestic flight route. About 95 flights take off from Mumbai to Delhi, thanks to which there’s a lot of flexibility in terms of timings and airlines to choose from. It takes about 2 hours to commute from Mumbai to Delhi via flight. You can board the flight from Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai. Your flight will land at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi. Winters in Delhi are extremely pleasant, thereby attracting maximum tourists during that tenure. You should wait no more before booking cheap flight tickets from Mumbai to Delhi and avail fabulous deals and offers with Jetstay.com.

Touring around Delhi for the first time may get a little overwhelming given how huge the city is. You may want to book yourself a cab from the airport to reach the hotel and then plan the rest of your trip. Commuting within Delhi has been simplified after the advent of Metro. You can travel to and fro using the Metro rail services most of the times. At other times, you may travel by autos, buses or cabs, depending upon your convenience and budget.

Must Read: The “Rajdhaani” of India, Delhi – Travellers of India

Sight-seeing around Delhi is a fabulous experience given the magnanimity of the history, culture, and heritage in the city. India Gate, Red Fort, Qutub Minar and Humayun’s Tomb have the most brilliant architecture the world has ever seen. Lodhi Gardens and Lotus Temple are havens to anyone who seeks natural bliss and solace. If politics interests you, you must pay a visit to Rashtrapati Bhavan and Parliament House. Delhi is a foodie’s dreamland! Everything from paranthes, chaat, kebabs, momos, rolls, chole-kulche, jilebis and kulfis are utterly delicious. The shopaholics may want to pave their way to Sarojini Nagar and Janpath to find anything they fancy under the sun.

With all of this and a lot more to offer, Delhi is the city with its heart in the right place. You’ll be one with the Delhites in no time and may want to be there for a little longer than you had planned to be. So wait no more! Book flight tickets from Mumbai to Delhi at really cheap rates with Jetstay.com and make your trip the most memorable one you’ve had so far!

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The 5 Habits You Must Acquire to Prosper as an Expat

A lot of people look at foreign lands as their greener pasture. In fact, about 50 million of the world’s population consist of people who have left their homeland to pursue a better life as skilled workers in first world countries such as the US, the UK, Canada and Australia.

And while most who venture to foreign countries do succeed in their goal of finding rewarding employment opportunities, many of them still experience some struggle with their life as expatriates, especially during the first several years.

The most prevalent difficulties expats face are:

● Homesickness

● Loneliness

● Cultural differences

● Language barriers

If you are immigrating to a new country and will be living the expat life soon, arming yourself with information on how to live well and flourish in a different corner of the globe can ensure that your personal story is one of pure triumph.

Obtaining assistance from the industry experts

Experienced immigration consultants do not only provide hassle-free assistance with the visa enquiry and application process; they also offer helpful guidance with the important aspects of relocating to a different country.

This makes them the ideal company to turn to for help in understanding what to expect regarding the cultural and lifestyle differences you may face. They are more than happy to help you prepare for the life awaiting you abroad.

And for further assistance on preparing for your new life as an expat, rounded up below are some known habits that have helped long-time expats succeed and prosper in a foreign land.

1. Continuously studying the vernacular

Stay consistent and persevering in learning the language spoken in your new country. Your ability to communicate clearly in the local language will make your tasks much easier to accomplish.

With a better grasp of the language:

● You can reduce the number of mistakes you make while going about your day-to-day activities (a period of trial and error is to be expected at the beginning of your journey, after all).

● You can protect yourself from unpleasant situations that could potentially arise due to confusion over words and terms that may turn out to have sensitive meanings in another language.

● Most importantly, forming valuable relationships will become much easier when you can relate better with the locals. You will be able to make friends faster, and may feel less lonely for the people you left behind.

Keep a notebook with you at all times and jot down new terms you pick up; even if you’ve signed up for language classes, there will still be a lot of jargons and slang that will not be covered. Locals are more likely to warm up to you faster when you can speak the way they do.

2. Building sincere friendships

Making the first move to strike up a friendship with the people you meet may take you out of your comfort zone, but making the effort can yield positive results for you.

Being social is essential to settling into a new place, so even if you are shy at first, try to initiate small talk or greet other people you interact with every day. Remember, locals would typically be as curious about you as you are about them. Give them a chance to get to know you better, and vice versa.

Quality human connections can help you feel that your new country is becoming more and more like home over time.

3. Improving and increasing your skills and knowledge

This can benefit not just the career you mean to build; it’s a smart tactic for improving your social life as well.

● Recruitment agencies advise that displaying a culture of learning helps a lot in the transition. By focusing on improving your mastery of your tasks and responsibilities at work, you can find it simpler to ease into the flow of your work routine. At the same time, you establish your value as a good, dependable worker to your employers.

● Keeping yourself busy with extra studies or training can also help take your mind off how homesick you may be feeling. You may meet even more new friends and find it easier to try new experiences.

● Furthermore, when you constantly work to better and increase your skills, you create a sense of continuity for your life. You can have peace of mind that in the event of an uncertainty with your professional position, you have prepared for such a situation by increasing your skills, knowledge and qualifications, and you would be able to look for other possibilities to secure the life you are leading in a foreign country.

4. Creating a routine that works

Routine will put your life in a proper rhythm. Having a set schedule of tasks and errands for each day will make your time more purposeful.

Simple tasks such as going to the store, cooking the day’s meals, cleaning your apartment, putting away excess possessions in a storage facility, and visiting new acquaintances will gradually become second nature to you.

Once you have a regular routine going, it won’t be too challenging to adjust to everything else. Eventually, you will be able to make room for more enriching and fun experiences that could enhance your time outside of work hours.

5. Seeking out experiences that bring joy

● Find enjoyable hobbies

● Set dates for discovery and exploration

● Make time for recreation and entertainment

These deliberate efforts will create a new normal for you. Along with that, you will come to appreciate what your new home offers.

There is no doubt that the life of an expat comes with many significant challenges, but you can easily overcome them if you are deliberate about it. With the right habits, you can adjust well to life in a foreign land and fully recognize it as a true land of opportunities, as well as your home.

AUTHOR BIO

Bevan Berning is an Immigration professional and owner of Pathway Visas, an Immigration Agency dealing mostly with skilled immigration to Canada and Australia. Bevan’s enthusiasm for the industry has kept in the Immigration field for the past seven years. Bevan is South African by birth and has been residing in Dubai for the past eight years.

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