1. Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Escape to the enchanting city of Agra, renowned for housing the iconic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Immerse yourself in the historical significance and architectural marvels that surround this magnificent monument.
Distance from Delhi: Approximately 200 km
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Highlights: Witness the eternal beauty of the Taj Mahal and delve into the historical wonders of Agra.
Additionally, explore other captivating attractions such as the Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, and Mehtab Bagh.
2. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
Jim Corbett National Park, located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand state, is a mesmerizing wilderness and one of India's most celebrated national parks. It holds the distinction of being the first national park established in the country during the British Raj in 1936, initially named Hailey National Park after William Malcolm Hailey, the Governor of the United Provinces. Later, in 1956, the park was renamed in honor of Jim Corbett, a renowned hunter and naturalist, who played a significant role in its establishment.
Geographical Features:
The park covers an expansive area of approximately 1,318 square kilometers, encompassing hills, riverine belts, marshy depressions, and grasslands. The elevation ranges from 1,300 to 4,000 feet (400 to 1,220 meters), providing diverse habitats for a wide variety of flora and fauna.
Flora
Jim Corbett National Park embraces dense moist deciduous forests, primarily adorned by sal, haldu, peepal, rohini, and mango trees, encompassing 73% of the park's terrain. The remaining 10% showcases flourishing grasslands. Notably, the park houses a rich diversity of flora, with a remarkable count of 488 different plant species.
Fauna
The real allure of Jim Corbett National Park lies in its fascinating wildlife. The park is renowned for its population of majestic Bengal tigers, although spotting them amidst the dense foliage requires patience and a bit of luck. Alongside the tigers, other prominent animal species include leopards, elephants, barking deer, sambar deer, hog deer, Indian grey mongoose, Himalayan black bears, Indian pangolins, and langur and rhesus macaques. Additionally, the park houses more than 586 species of birds, including the crested serpent eagle and blossom-headed parakeet.
Ecotourism
Jim Corbett National Park has become a popular ecotourism destination, attracting nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers from all over the world. The park's ecotourism initiatives focus on promoting conservation while ensuring visitors can enjoy and appreciate the natural wonders it offers. The management has trained nature guides to educate visitors about the park's diverse ecology and wildlife.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Jim Corbett National Park is during the dry season from mid-October to mid-June. During this period, the chances of spotting tigers and other wildlife are relatively higher. For Indian tourists, the summer months (April to June) are recommended, while foreign tourists are advised to visit during the winter months (November to January) for the best wildlife encounters.
Highlights
Jim Corbett National Park provides a thrilling experience for wildlife enthusiasts with its captivating jungle safaris. Visitors can capture mesmerizing wildlife moments through photography, as the park offers numerous opportunities to witness the majestic Bengal tigers and other exotic fauna in their natural habitats.
As a testament to India's rich natural heritage and commitment to wildlife conservation, Jim Corbett National Park continues to be a cherished destination for both domestic and international travelers seeking an unforgettable wildlife adventure amidst the pristine beauty of the Himalayan region.
3. Jaipur, Rajasthan
Discover the vibrant hues of the Pink City, Jaipur, adorned with magnificent palaces and forts. Dive into the rich cultural heritage and immerse yourself in the royal charm of Amer Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar.
Distance from Delhi: Approximately 280 km
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Highlights: Experience the grandeur of Rajasthan, indulge in Rajasthani cuisine, and explore the bustling markets.
4. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Experience the tranquility and adventure at the "Yoga Capital of the World," Rishikesh. Engage in thrilling white-water rafting, embark on rejuvenating yoga retreats, and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of ancient temples.
Distance from Delhi: Approximately 240 km
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Highlights: Seek serenity along the Ganga River, indulge in adventure activities, and embrace the spiritual essence of Rishikesh.
5. Neemrana, Rajasthan
Step back in time to the historic town of Neemrana, known for the awe-inspiring Neemrana Fort Palace, now transformed into a luxurious heritage hotel. Engage in adventurous activities like zip-lining and explore the captivating Baori stepwell.
Distance from Delhi: Approximately 121 km
Best Time to Visit: July to March
Highlights: Immerse in royal hospitality, experience rich heritage, and witness the captivating allure of Neemrana.
