#Namgyal dynasty

[dsharma-world]

Interesting facts of Sikkim

Sikkim, a northeastern part of India is bordered by Tibet, Bhutan, and Nepal. Here’s a brief history of Sikkim along with five interesting facts: History:Sikkim was once an independent kingdom ruled by the Namgyal dynasty. The kingdom came under British influence in the late 19th century and became a protectorate of India in 1950. In 1975, Sikkim became India’s 22nd state after a referendum that…

[saurabhanandtripzygo]

Discovering the Enchanting Attractions of Leh Ladakh

Nestled in the pristine lap of the Himalayas, Leh Ladakh is a land of breathtaking landscapes, serene monasteries, and vibrant culture. Every year, this remote region of northern India attracts adventurers, spiritual seekers, and nature enthusiasts from around the globe. From the shimmering blue waters of Pangong Lake to the ancient monasteries perched atop rugged cliffs, Leh Ladakh offers a tapestry of experiences that captivate the soul.

Pangong Lake

One of the most iconic sights in Leh Ladakh, Pangong Lake mesmerizes visitors with its surreal beauty. The lake, spanning across India and Tibet, boasts stunning shades of blue that change with the shifting sunlight. Surrounded by barren mountains, the tranquility of Pangong Lake is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Visitors often camp by its shores, soaking in the serene ambiance and gazing at the star-studded sky that seems to touch the water's edge.

Nubra Valley

Tucked away in the northernmost part of Ladakh, Nubra Valley is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. The valley, cradled between the Karakoram Range and the Himalayas, is a land of contrasts, where towering sand dunes meet snow-capped peaks. A camel ride amidst the sand dunes of Hunder is an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the region's unique landscape. Nubra Valley is also home to picturesque monasteries like Diskit Gompa, offering spiritual solace amidst breathtaking vistas.

Leh Palace

Perched atop a hill overlooking the enchanting town of Leh, Leh Palace is a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage. Built in the 17th century, this nine-story palace served as the royal residence of the Namgyal dynasty. Today, while the palace stands in a state of graceful decay, its crumbling walls and intricate architecture exude an old-world charm that transports visitors back in time. From the rooftop, panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the winding lanes of Leh town unfold, painting a picture of timeless beauty.

Thiksey Monastery

No visit to Leh Ladakh is complete without exploring its ancient monasteries, and Thiksey Monastery is among the most revered. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Indus Valley, Thiksey Monastery is a sprawling complex of white-washed buildings adorned with colorful murals and fluttering prayer flags. The monastery houses a vast collection of Buddhist artifacts, including exquisite thangka paintings and ancient scriptures. Visitors can witness the monks' daily rituals, accompanied by the melodic chants that echo through the halls, creating an atmosphere of serenity and introspection.

Hemis Monastery

Hidden amidst the rugged terrain of Ladakh, Hemis Monastery is a spiritual oasis steeped in centuries of tradition. Believed to be the wealthiest monastery in the region, Hemis is renowned for its annual festival, which celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. During the festival, masked dancers perform ancient rituals amidst a sea of devotees, creating a spectacle that is both mesmerizing and deeply spiritual. The monastery's museum houses a priceless collection of thangka paintings, ancient relics, and intricately crafted statues, offering insight into the region's rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

From the ethereal beauty of Pangong Lake to the ancient mystique of Hemis Monastery, Leh Ladakh beckons travelers with its unparalleled charm and serenity. Whether you seek adventure amidst towering peaks or spiritual enlightenment in ancient monasteries, this Himalayan paradise promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of the mountains. Embark on a voyage of discovery and immerse yourself in the timeless allure of Leh Ladakh.

[prabirkumarm2]

Sikkim at Its Best

Sikkim has never failed to fascinate me with its immense natural beauty. Sikkim's beauty cannot be measured if you don't visit this destination once. It is a northeastern state of India where natural beauty is in abundance. It also borders some magnificent locations including Tibet which is China's autonomous region, Bhutan, and the Indian state of West Bengal.

As it is located in the eastern part of the Himalayas, while visiting Sikkim, you will be able to get a thrilling view of some of the mightiest Himalayan peaks including Kanchenjunga, and more. Apart from its scenic beauty, this state has a rich history dating back to the 18th century when Namgyal Dynasty used to rule over the region. However, it joined India under British Rule and it became an Indian state in the year 1975.

There are many things you will love about this Indian state. Some of the prominent ones are mentioned below.

Gangtok

Yuksom

Tsomggo Lake

Nathula Pass

Lachung

Lachen

Ravangla

Pelling

All these places can be visited easily with the help of a reputed travel agency. Their Sikkim tour package will include all the amenities you require for a magnificent holiday.

[santhosh2k]

Lachen Palker Palace This is the palace which was built by sengee Namgyal who was one of the prominent kings of the Namgyal dynasty and also the last ruling dynasty of Ladakh. It is quite amazing to know more about the history of the Ladakh which has seen quite a lot of wars and battles as well but hardly has made it into any of the history textbooks of the schools.I hope one day, the school boards wake up and have a more assimilated curriculum than learning about the American independence war in India. #ladakh #leh #namgyal #zanskar #zanskarcalling #history #curriculum #indianhistory #local #motorcycle #motorcyclelife #travel #travelindia #travellog #xpulse200 #triumph #versysindia #bangaloretravellers #photography #canonphotography #canonindia https://www.instagram.com/p/CibtVnjvBWZ/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[happyeasygoindia]

4 Best Architectural Wonders to Visit in India

The history of our India dates back almost 5000 years or more. During this time, India developed into a rich cultural diversity and heritage hub. Different dynasties have their periods in Indian history; during their periods, they have built a number of architectural wonders. In this post, we will look at some of our country’s best architectural wonders. There are cheap flight and hotel booking options for travellers who can book at the HappyEasyGo website or app to travel to those places. Now let’s begin.

Ruins of the Vijayanagara empire, Hampi

A renowned UNESCO world heritage site, the magnificent city of ruins, is the most charismatic and vivid of all the ruins in Karnataka. It also boasts of some exquisite examples of temple architecture of that period. It was one of the largest empires in the history of India, and one can still see its splendour in its ruins. The kings of the Vijayanagar empire were great appreciators of art & architecture, as is evident from the enormous ruins. So if you want to visit Hampi and reside in Delhi, then book a Delhi to Bangalore Flight from happyeasygo.

Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh

It is the oldest and largest monastery in India. Situated just 2 km from the town, it is the whole of Tawang valley’s social, cultural, and spiritual epicentre. In Tibet, people call it “Gaden Namgyal Lhatse”, which means “the divine paradise of complete victory”. The monastery comprises residential buildings for the monks, a library, a museum, and a school for primary education. There is an 8 m high gilded statue of Lord Buddha which is the centre of attraction in the sanctum.

Meenakshi Temple, Madurai

It is one of India’s oldest and most prominent temples because of its historical and mythological significance. People also call it “Minakshi-Sundareshwara Temple” because, according to legends, Lord Shiva took the form of Sundareshwar and married Parvati (Meenakshi) at the spot where the temple is situated. Because of its astonishing and intricate structure, the temple was nominated for the “Seven Wonders of the World”, although it couldn’t make it to the list. But it certainly is one of the wonders of India.

Konark Sun Temple, Orissa

The Konark Sun Temple is an architectural marvel of Eastern India and a symbol of India’s heritage. It is also one of the prominent tourist attractions and houses a grand temple devoted to the sun god. The word “Konark” consists of two words – ‘Kona’ and ‘Arka’, where ‘Kona’ means ‘Corner’, and ‘Arka’ means ‘Sun’, so it combines to become ‘Sun of the Corner’. The temple is located on the north-eastern corner of Puri. People also call the temple “Arka Kshetra”.

[ladakhstokpalace]

The Stok Palace is a monument to the heyday of the Namgyal dynasty in Ladakh. This must-see landmark in the area around Leh has been around since 1820. Stok Palace is the culmination of the development of fortified royal residences typical of the Indus Valley or Singey Sangpo region.

Stok Palace is located 15 kilometres from Leh. Hiring a taxi or renting a motorcycle are the most convenient ways to get here.

Drive down to our Stok palace with a serene view on the way.

www.stokheritagepalace.com

[pinsofindia]

Sikkim

Sikkim: An Indian State That Will Take Your Breath Away

Sikkim is a small Indian state located in the Himalayan mountains. It is bordered by Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan, and is a popular tourist destination for its stunning scenery and unique culture. With its soaring mountains, verdant valleys, and meandering rivers, Sikkim is an adventurer's paradise. And, with its rich culture and friendly people, Sikkim is also a great place to relax and enjoy a slower pace of life. Introduction Sikkim is a small state in northeastern India, bordered by Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan. It is the smallest state in India and is also the least populous. Despite its small size, Sikkim is a land of great diversity, with a wide range of climates and terrain. Sikkim is a popular tourist destination, due to its natural beauty and its status as a Himalayan kingdom. It is also home to the world's third-highest mountain, Kanchenjunga. If you're planning a trip to Sikkim, be sure to read up on the state's history and culture. And don't forget to pack your camera - Sikkim is a photographer's paradise! History and Culture of Sikkim The history of Sikkim is a long and fascinating one, dating back centuries to a time when the region was inhabited by a number of different tribes. The first recorded history of Sikkim begins in the 16th century, when the Namgyal dynasty was established. Over the next few hundred years, Sikkim flourished as a powerful kingdom, with a rich culture and tradition. In the 19th century, Sikkim came under British rule and became a part of India. However, the kingdom retain its unique identity and culture. Today, Sikkim is a vibrant and thriving state with a proud history and culture. Travelling in Sikkim If you're looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, then Sikkim is the perfect place to travel to. This small state in India is full of natural beauty, from its snow-capped mountains to its green valleys. And, with its friendly people and peaceful atmosphere, Sikkim is a great place to relax and recharge. There are plenty of things to see and do in Sikkim, whether you're interested in adventure or simply want to take in the scenery. For those who love the outdoors, there are plenty of hiking and trekking trails to explore, as well as some of the best mountaineering in the country. For those who prefer to stay closer to the ground, there are also many beautiful temples and monasteries to visit, as well as some stunning waterfalls. The People of Sikkim The People of Sikkim are a wonderful, friendly and hospitable people. They are known for their warmth and generosity, and they are truly a pleasure to be around. There are many different ethnic groups that make up the population of Sikkim, and each one has its own unique culture and traditions. The most populous group are the Lepchas, which make up around half of the population. The other groups include the Bhutias, the Nepalis, the Tibetans and the Mizos. Each group has its own language, and the people of Sikkim are proud of their rich cultural heritage. The Lepcha language is the official language of Sikkim, and it is spoken by around 80% of the population. The people of Sikkim are largely Buddhist, and there are many beautiful temples and monasteries throughout the state. Sikkim is also home to the world-famous Himalayan Mountains, and the people here have a great love for nature. If you ever have the chance to visit Sikkim, you will be sure to meet some of the most wonderful people in the world. Read the full article

[mysterioushimachal]

Royal Leh Palace | Historical Monument

Royal Leh Palace | Historical Monument

Leh Palace . Image by The Leh Palace, also known as ‘Lhachen Palkhar,’ is a former royal palace from the 17th century and one of Leh’s main attractions. It was built under the patronage of King Sengge Namgyal to accommodate his family. The nine-story dun-colored castle currently contains a museum and a prayer room, with the rooftop offering a panoramic view of Leh and the adjacent Zanskar…

[the-funtime-autocrat]

Hope Cooke (born June 24, 1940) is an American who was the "Gyalmo" (Tibetan: རྒྱལ་མོ་, Wylie: rgyal mo) (Queen Consort) of the 12th Chogyal (King) of Sikkim, Palden Thondup Namgyal.[1] Their wedding took place in March 1963. She was termed Her Highness The Crown Princess of Sikkim and became the Gyalmo of Sikkim at Palden Thondup Namgyal's coronation in 1965.[2]

Palden Thondup Namgyal (23 May 1923 – 29 January 1982) was the 12th and last Chogyal (king) of the Kingdom of Sikkim.

At six, he became a student at St. Joseph's Convent in Kalimpong, but had to terminate his studies due to attacks of malaria. From age eight to eleven he studied under his uncle, Rimpoche Lhatsun, in order to be ordained a Buddhist monk; he was subsequently recognised as the reincarnated leader of both Phodong and Rumtek monasteries. He later continued his studies at St. Joseph's Collegein Darjeeling and finally graduated from Bishop Cotton School in Shimla, in 1941. His plans to study science at Cambridge were dashed when his elder brother, the crown prince, a member of the Indian Air Force was killed in a plane crash in 1941.

Namgyal served as adviser for internal affairs for his father, Sir Tashi Namgyal, the 11th Chogyal, and led the negotiating team which established Sikkim's relationship to India after independence in 1949. He married Samyo Kushoe Sangideki in 1950, a daughter of an important Tibetan family of Lhasa, and together they had two sons and a daughter. Samyo Kushoe Sangideki died in 1957.

The Kingdom of Sikkim (Classical Tibetan and Sikkimese: འབྲས་ལྗོངས། Drenjong), earlier known as Dremoshong (Classical Tibetan and Sikkimese: འབྲས་མོ་གཤོངས།, official name until 1800s), was a hereditary monarchy from 1642 to 16 May 1975 in the Eastern Himalayas. It was ruled by Chogyals of the Namgyal dynasty. Under the 1861 Treaty of Tumlong Sikkim became a British protectorate, then an Indian protectorate in 1950.[4]

(From The Mad Monarchist):

“The Kingdom of Sikkim was also no backward state living in primitive isolation. Although very small and having few resources, King Namgyal was actually quite successful at improving his tiny country. During his rather brief reign, while most people still lived very modestly by western standards, Sikkim became relatively better off than its neighbors. The literacy rate and per capita income in the Kingdom of Sikkim was double that in India, Bhutan and Nepal. Things were improving, Sikkim was doing well and becoming more educated and more productive under its new monarch. King Namgyal had been the leader of those who negotiated the normalization of relations between India and Sikkim when India became independent. Previously, the British Empire had maintained the same sort of relationship it had with most of the other numerous kings, princes, rajas and so forth of the region. He knew that things would be different after Indian independence and he was not wrong about that.”

In 1959 Cooke was a freshman majoring in Asian Studies at Sarah Lawrence College and sharing an apartment with actress Jane Alexander. She went on a summer trip to India and met Palden Thondup Namgyal, Crown Prince of Sikkim, in the lounge[9] of the Windamere Hotel in Darjeeling, India. He was a recent widower with two sons and a daughter and, at age 36, nearly twice her age. They were drawn to each other by the similar isolation of their childhoods. Two years later, in 1961, their engagement was announced, but the wedding was put off for more than a year because astrologers in both Sikkim and India warned that 1962 was an inauspicious year for marriages.[1]

On March 20, 1963, Cooke married Namgyal in a Buddhist monastery in a ceremony performed by fourteen lamas. Wedding guests included members of Indian royalty, Indian and Sikkimese generals, and the U.S. Ambassador to India, John Kenneth Galbraith.[1] Cooke renounced her United States citizenship as required by Sikkim's laws and also as a demonstration to the people of Sikkim that she was not an "American arm" in the Himalayas.[10] She was dropped from the Social Register but the marriage was reported in National Geographic magazine. The New Yorker followed the royal couple on one of their yearly trips to America.[1] Although her husband was Buddhist, Cooke did not officially convert from Christianity to Buddhism though she had practiced Buddhism from an early age on (as Henry Kissinger once remarked "she has become more Buddhist than the population").[11][12][5] Namgyal was crowned monarch of Sikkim on April 4, 1965. However, their marriage faced strains, and both had affairs, he with a married Belgian woman, and she with an American friend.[1][13]

At the same time, Sikkim was under strain due to annexation pressures from India. 

In 1975, allegations of discrimination against Nepali Hindus in Sikkim led to resentment against the Chogyal.[5][6] Their instigation led to Indian Army personnel moving into Gangtok. According to Sunanda K. Datta-Ray of The Statesman, the army killed the palace guards and surrounded the palace in April 1975.[4][dead link]

After disarming the palace, a referendum on the monarchy was held, in which the Sikkimese people overwhelmingly voted to abolish the monarchy, and the new parliament of Sikkim, led by Kazi Lhendup Dorjee, proposed a bill for Sikkim to become an Indian state, which was promptly accepted by the Government of India.[7][4]

Cooke's husband was deposed on April 10, 1975 and confined to his palace under house arrest.[15] The couple soon separated. Cooke returned to Manhattan, where she raised her children, Palden and Hope Leezum.[16] In May 1975 Representative James W. Symington (D-MO) and Senator Mike Mansfield (D-MT) sponsored private bills to restore her citizenship;[17] however, after the bill passed the Senate, several members of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration objected, and the bill had to be amended to grant her only U.S. permanent resident status before it could gain their support and pass Congress.[10][18] President Gerald Ford signed the bill into law on June 16, 1976.[19] By 1981 she still had not been able to regain U.S. citizenship.[20] The royal couple divorced in 1980, and Namgyal died of cancer in 1982 in New York City.[21][22][23][24][25]

With child support from Namgyal and an inheritance from her grandparents, she rented an apartment in Yorkville, Manhattan. This time around, she felt "profoundly displaced" in the city and started going on walking tours and then creating her own.[26] She studied Dutch journals, old church sermons, and newspaper articles to acquaint herself with the city and lectured on the social history of New York. She wrote a weekly column, "Undiscovered Manhattan", for The Daily News. Her books include an award-winning memoir of her life in Sikkim, Time Change: An Autobiography (1981), an off-the-beaten-path guide to New York, Seeing New York,[27] developed from her walking tours, and, with Jacques d'Amboise, she published Teaching the Magic of Dance.[8]

Hope Cooke lived in London for a few years before returning to the United States, where she now lives in Brooklyn and currently works as a writer, historian, and lecturer.[8] She was a consultant for PBS's New York: A Documentary Film (1999–2001).[29] Cooke is a regular contributor to book reviews and magazines and also lectures widely. 

@baronofurga

[keerata320]

NATURAL RESOURCES OF SIKKIM

Natural Resources

Sikkim, a mountainous state, owes its modern origin way back in 1642 A.D. when its kingdom was ruled by its first monarch Phuntsog Namgyal who was consecrated as the first king of Sikkim by three monks: Lhatsun Chhenpo, Nga-Dag Lama and Kathog Lama at Yuksam in western Sikkim. At that time, the territory of Sikkim was extended up to Limbuwan in the west, Chumbi Valley and parts of Bhutan in the east and the entire Darjeeling district in south. The capital of the state was Yuksam. The then king divided the state into twelve dzongs (district), placed each under a lepcha dzongpan (governor) for centralized administration. 

Sikkim, a mountainous state, owes its modern origin way back in 1642 A.D. when its kingdom was ruled by its first monarch Phuntsog Namgyal who was consecrated as the first king of Sikkim by three monks: Lhatsun Chhenpo, Nga-Dag Lama and Kathog Lama at Yuksam in western Sikkim. At that time, the territory of Sikkim was extended up to Limbuwan in the west, Chumbi Valley and parts of Bhutan in the east and the entire Darjeeling district in south. The capital of the state was Yuksam. The then king divided the state into twelve dzongs (district), placed each under a lepcha dzongpan (governor) for centralized administration.  In the next generation, the king Tensung Namgyal, moved the capital to Rabdentse in 1670 A.D. for security reasons. After a long gap, Tsudphud Namgyal, a king of the same dynasty, shifted the capital to Tumlong in 1814 A.D., as Rabdentse was considered to be too close to Nepal. During the period of Thutob Namgyal, the capital of Sikkim was again shifted in 1894 A.D. to Gangtok and since then it remained as the capital. As per the treaty of India and Sikkim, which was signed in 1950, the Indian Government took over the administration of the Sikkim. However, the Namgyal dynasty continued till the Sikkim acquired full democracy and become the 22nd state of Indian Union on 16th May, 1975.  The state is situated between 27°04' 46" and 28°07' 48" north latitudes and 88°00'58" and 88°55'25" east longitudes. The state is extending approximately 114 km from north to south and 64 km from east to west having total geographical area of 7,096 Sq km. Rivers and mountains define the boundaries of Sikkim. The state shares its southern boundary, which is delineated by Rangit and other rivers, with Darjeeling district of West Bengal. Three sovereign nations, the kingdom of Nepal in the west, Bhutan in the east and vast stretches of Tibetan plateau of China in the north bound the state.

[famousplacesinindia]

Built entirely by the #Ladakhi craftsmen in 1820, the #StokPalace still continues to be a snug abode for the Namgyal dynasty. The Namgyal dynasty traces its origin to its founder –Lhachen Palgygon as early as 10th century. You are entering a historical property and the Palace stands almost 200 years old. The Stok Palace was opened to public in 1980 with blessings of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. It encapsulates and reflects the lifestyle and history of royalty set in the midst of the valley of #SingeySangpo which is popularly known as the #IndusRiver. (at Stok Palace, Stok, Ladakh) https://www.instagram.com/p/CKBWfwaBcLC/?igshid=wem0q8rhb5nl

[sikkimbuzz]

May 16th commemorates the day in 1975 when Sikkim became India's 22nd state. The Kingdom of Sikkim was founded in the 17th century by the Namgyal dynasty. It was ruled by a Chogyal monarchy of Buddhist priest-kings. In 1890, Sikkim became a principality within British India. Sikkim retained protectorate status within the Republic of India after India and Pakistan gained independence in 1947. Growing unrest against the Chogyal's rule, including a direct appeal from the Sikkim Prime Minister for Indian assistance, led to the Indian military deposing the Chogyal and abolishing the Sikkimese monarchy in 1975. A referendum was then held, and 97.5 percent of voters supported the monarchy's abolition, resulting in Sikkim became India's 22nd state. https://www.instagram.com/p/Cdmp-3MB4Pp/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[thetimesofhistory-blog]

When Sikkim wasn't the part of India. . . Sikkim was under the rule of the Chogyal Dynasty. In 1890, under the rule of the British, it became a protectorate state. This meant that it came under the jurisdiction of the British. It acted as a buffer state between China and British India. In 1947, according to a treaty Sikkim’s foreign policy, security and communication came under India’s realm. Yet Sikkim retained its independence. Sikkim’s last monarch Palden Thondup Namgyal married an American, Hoppe Cook. It has been said that she took over the governance of Sikkim after her marriage. She was also accused of being a CIA agent. In 1975, the people of Sikkim rebelled against the monarch which led to its official merger with India. Indira Gandhi after becoming PM established RAW, which carried out an important role to annex Sikkim and to liberate Bangladesh. Almost 98% of Sikkimese voted to join India. In 1975, IPS officer Ajit Doval, who is also the present National Security Adviser went from Mizoram to Sikkim and handled the entire operation. Sikkim’s first chief minister Kazi Lhendup Dorjee was supporting India throughout this. Sikkim was made a part of India after the 35th Constitutional Amendment. It was on 16 May 1975 that Sikkim, India’s least populous state officially became a part of India. . . Follow us: @timesofhistory . . #sikkim #sikkimtourism #sikkimdiaries #partitionofindia #britishindia #sikkimadventures #panditnehru #nehru #jawaharlalnehru #indiragandhi #liberationwarofbangladesh #indianhistory #sikkimtrip #northsikkim #statesofindia #1947partition #sikkimstories #historyofindia #knowthepast #timesofhistory (at Sikkim) https://www.instagram.com/p/CD8-BhyHUk4/?igshid=ghozzva90lc

[ladakhstokpalace]

A unique location with a two-century history is the Stok Palace Heritage Hotel in Ladakh. It is a significant historical, cultural, and architectural site that is also home to the Namgyals, Ladakh's ruling dynasty. The palace also houses a Buddhist shrine, known as the Lhakchung, on the top level, where a resident monk performs daily rites and prayers.

[mysterioushimachal]

Stok Monastery | Stok Gompa | Leh & Ladakh

Stok Monastery | Stok Gompa | Leh & Ladakh

Stok Monastery The Buddhist monastery Stok Monastery or Stok Gompa is located in Stok, in the Leh region of Ladakh, India, some 15 kilometres south of Leh. The city of Samye was created in the 14th century by Lama Lhawang Lotus, who gathered all 108 volumes of the Kangyur there. Every year, a celebration that incorporates ceremonial dance-masks is organised. Between the monastery and the…

[thevueindiatours]

10 Amazing Places to Visit in North India

The northern part of India is a place stuck in time. With its historic cities, rich heritage and diverse culture, your journey is bound to be mesmerizing.

The historic cities of Delhi and Agra, the majestic land of Rajasthan, the spiritual site of Varanasi, Haridwar and Rishikesh, picturesque Kashmir – North India offers a holistic experience of India.

You feel a heartfelt fascination towards all the exciting new happenings you witness in North India. All the tourist places in North India have unique experiences to offer and foreigners love to indulge in the local specialties in food, clothes and cultural activities.

Picking a ‘Top-5‘ for North India tourist destinations makes it a bit stringent but if you schedule your journey accordingly, the experience will be unforgettable!

Also read: https://www.vueindiatours.com/blog/9-best-things-to-do-on-golden-triangle-tour-india-a-fun-way-to-see-india/

1. Delhi – Capital of India

Delhi is a living testimony to India’s past. Keeping a balance between the rich history and the sprawling future, Delhi is situate by the holy river of Yamuna and hosts an array of monuments and places that epitomize to Indian heritage and culture.

Some of the most famous places to visit in Delhi include Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, Swaminarayan Akshardham, India Gate, Chandni Chowk and Lodhi Garden.

2. Agra – Home of the Taj

What’s the first thing that pops in your mind when you hear India? The Taj Mahal! A testimony to Mughal emperor Shah Jahan’s undying love for his deceased wife Mumtaz, this majestic white marble monument has been enticing travellers from around the world for ages. The historic city of Agra stands witness to the glorious times that once made this city a cultural hub of the Mughal dynasty.

Apart from the Taj Mahal, you can also see the architectural wonders such as Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah and Jahangir Mahal.

3. Jaipur – Land of Maharajas

Grand palaces, centuries-old forts, camels, desert safaris and a vibrant local culture – Rajasthan is the most visited state in India, adorned by travellers from around the world. Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, reflects the richness of heritage and culture in its majestic medieval monuments and the Pink City, which is an example of the cultural flavour of Rajasthan.

The most luxurious experience of India can be availed in Jaipur. You can stay as a guest in one of the palaces, have dinner with a royal family, live life the Maharaja style! Some of the most famous places to visit in Jaipur include Amer Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, and Nahargarh Fort.

Witness The Wonders Of India With Luxury And Comfort!

   4. Varanasi – Spiritual Capital of India

The holiest and oldest city in India, Varanasi is a mystic town that is considered by Hindu devotees to be the gateway to moksha (spiritual enlightenment). Taking a dip into the river Ganges is said to wash away one’s sins and rejuvenate the soul. The fascinating stories of kings and deities being humbled by the wisdom of Varanasi saints will leave you spellbound.

The soulful experience of sitting on a boat at dawn watching the sun gleam over the millennia-old city and listening to the esoteric talks about life and cycle of rebirth is an experience you will find nowhere else in the world. The Sandhya Aarti (evening prayer) performed by high priests on the riverbank with huge brass lamps and choreographed movements is a spectacle you need to see to believe!

5. Ladakh – Natural Gem of North India

A bit of an off-the-track destination for foreigners, Ladakh is a hidden gem in North India. With stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, Ladakh entices bikers and travellers from around the world. A strong influence of Tibetan culture is quite prominent in the Buddhist monasteries and cuisine of Ladakh.

Crystal clear lakes, vast valleys on the foothills of lower Himalayan ridges, and friendly ethnic tribesmen make your Ladakh tour unforgettable. Some of the most famous places to visit in Ladakh include the Tsarap Chu River, Khardung La Pass, Pangong Lake, Zanskar Valley, Nubra Valley, the Hemis National Park, Hemis Monastery, the Royal Palace of Leh and the famous ‘gravity-defying’ hill or Magnetic Hill.

6. Rishikesh – International Yoga Capital

If you are a fan of tranquillity and wilderness, Rishikesh is your perfect getaway. Just a 6-hour drive from Delhi, the little town at the foothills of Lowe Himalayan ranges is a world-renowned centre for meditation and yoga. Visitors from around the world rate Rishikesh very high when it comes to learning more about yoga.

The rapid waters of Ganges and the white sand riverbanks are a beautiful combination that eases your mind. The shores are just perfect for camping and you can find many camp sites that offer a soothing atmosphere. Rishikesh is also known for adventure activities such as river rafting, paragliding, bungee jumping. India’s first tiger reserve – the Jim Corbett National Park – is also located in Rishikesh.

7. Kashmir Valley – Heaven on Earth

“Gar firdaus bar-rue zamin ast,

Haminast-o, haminast-o, hamin ast.”

(If there is a heaven on earth,

It’s here, it’s here.)

This is how legendary Urdu poet Rumi described Kashmir. India’s crown jewel in natural beauty – Kashmir is a mesmerizing place. The serenity of the Dal Lake or the majestic sunrise over the snow-capped mountains in Gulmarg, wandering eyes are spoilt for choice in Kashmir.

Ride a Sikara on the calm and peaceful Dal Lake in Srinagar, ski on the snowy slopes of Gulmarg, or smell the endless rows of flowers in the ‘meadow of gold’ in Sonamarg. Kashmir is always an unforgettable experience.

8. Ranthambore National Park – The Wild Side of North India

The animals of Rajasthan are just as glamorous and majestic as the forts and palaces. Ride an open jeep in the Ranthambore National Park, India’s largest conservation for Bengal tigers.

Get up close with nature’s most ferocious predator in its natural habitat from a distance of just a few yards. Ranthambore is home to some of the wildest animals such as leopard cat, fishing cat, jungle cat, sloth bear, striped hyena, desert fox, palm civet, Indian gazelle (chinkara), Russel’s vipers, and monocled cobras

9. Amritsar – Holiest Site for Sikhs

The holiest site for the Sikh community who have preached peace and brotherhood all over the world, the Golden Temple of Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar, is the pride of Punjab. The peaceful city offers a soulful experience with thousands of devotees visiting the holy shrine.

The pool inside the shrine complex is named Sarova, which means ‘pool of ambrosial nectar’, is said to have healing powers and is considered to be sacred. The shrine shelters the homeless and feeds the hungry at each meal every day. People from all walks of life come here to volunteer and serve the devotees.

10. Dharamshala – Serenity Amid the Hills

If you want to spend a week in complete peace, visit the quaint hill station of Dharamshala. This picturesque town on the foothills of Dhauladhar Mountains is home to many wellness centres and yoga schools. The highlight of your trip would be spectacular scenery of the snow-capped mountain which can be viewed from all points of the town.

Mcleodgunj, just half-an-hour drive away from Dharamshala, is a must for visitors who wish to explore the Indo-Tibetan culture. The Namgyal Monastery, which is the home of the Dalai Lama when he is in India, is located in Mcleodgunj. You can also explore the Triund trekking route for an even more beautiful view of the Lower Himalayas.

If you wish to explore North India and its majestic sojourns, get in touch with us for a North India tour package designed according to your taste and convenience.