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One of the best things about Mumbai is the sea and the access it provides for quick day-time trips to nearby beaches and islands. Less than an hour's boat ride from the Gateway of India, in Colaba, lies the Elephanta Island colloquially known as Gharapuri or the Fortress City. The scenic island stretches across 10 to 15 sq km of land and has a dense foliage of mango, tamarind and palm trees. Perfect for a weekend excursion, this island provides good trekking as well as picnic opportunities. The island gets its name from a giant stone sculpture of an elephant that was discovered by the 16th century Portuguese explorers who came to this area. The island owes its global popularity to the fact that it is home to a network of ancient rock-cut caves known as the Elephanta caves that boast artistic wall carvings and sculptures, dedicated to Hindu and Buddhist gods. These caves were incorporated in the UNESCO list of World Heritage sites in the early 1980s. The walls of the caves, which are located on top of a hillock, are lined with rock art that experts say, dates as far back as the mid- 5th and 6th century. There are two main hills on the island – Gun Hill and Stupa Hill. The former gets its name from the two British-era canons perched on it and the latter because of the remains of a Buddhist stupa that was excavated here. The most intricately detailed and architecturally majestic cave, among the Elephanta network is situated on Gun Hill. The panels on these caves depict the lives and beliefs of the esoteric Pashupati sect of the Shaiva system. A 7-m-high sculpture called Sadashiva lies at the entrance of the cave. 

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A symbol of wisdom and good luck, Lord Ganesha is the most worshipped Hindu god in Maharashtra. Ganesh Chaturthi is a prominent 10-day long festival celebrated across households in Maharashtra during the months of August and September with great pomp and show. Devotees buy Ganesha idols and images and keep him as a divine guest in their house and at the end of the festival, on designated days, this idol or image is taken out ceremoniously and immersed in a river or the sea. These idols are available in different sizes, shapes and poses. Workshops where these idols are made can be seen all over Mumbai, especially in areas like Parel, Chinchpokli and Lalbaug. The village of Pen, about two hours south of Mumbai, is known for its highly skilled artisans who craft lakhs of Ganesha statues annually. Lately, due to environmental concerns that have arisen from the immersion of the idols at the shores of Mumbai, many artisans are gradually moving towards more eco-friendly idol-making techniques like using red soil, fertilisers, natural colour, papier-mâché and other biodegradable materials.

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Once a dense forestland inhabited by a few tribal communities, Ganeshpuri was transformed into a spiritual centre by spiritual leader, Nityanand Swami. The place has a Shiva temple, a few natural hotwater springs and several other temples. Of the many hot springs, a few are open to the public with bathhouses built around them. In its twin town, Vajreshwari, the Vajreshwari Temple is quite significant. It is dedicated to Goddess Vajreshwari, who is an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. The temple was built by the Peshwas after winning back the Vasai Fort from the Portuguese. It is situated at the foothills of the Mandakini Hills, which were formed out of a volcanic eruption. This also explains the numerous mineral-rich springs in the area. A flight of fifty odd steps leads to the temple perched on the top of a small hillock.

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This Buddhist meditation centre, an architectural wonder that rises majestically against the Arabian Sea, seeks to promote peace and harmony. Built with the purpose of bringing each visitor closer to the philosophies and teachings of Lord Buddha, this monument houses genuine bone relics of Buddha. The monument is a three-storeyed huge hollow stone structure painted in a shining Thai golden paint. It is said to be the world’s largest pillar-less dome, especially designed for meditation. The relics are enshrined in the centre of the middle dome and a revolving stage is created in the centre of the main dome at ground level so that meditation can be done around it while listening to the sermons. It has the capacity of accommodating over 8,000 meditating people at a time. The complex also has an audio-visual centre and a gallery of wall mounts and photographs adjacent to a book and souvenir shop.

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One of the more popular attractions of Mumbai, the Haji Ali complex houses the tomb of Muslim saint, Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, and a mosque. Popular with photographers, this iconic monument can be seen from the shores of Mumbai and lies entirely on an island in the Arabian Sea, at a distance of about 500 yards from the mainland. According to legend, the saint was travelling to the holy city of Mecca, in present day Saudi Arabia, on a pilgrimage, when he passed away. His casket floated across the Arabian Sea and landed up along the coast of Mumbai, where a mosque was built around it. The structure has white domes and minarets reminiscent of Mughal architecture and is a renowned pilgrimage and tourist site popular with both Muslims and non-Muslims. Adjacent to the mosque is an 85-foot-tall marble minaret. Both the mosque and the minaret are made out of pure white solid marble with carvings and engravings, adorned with beautiful mirror work. An oft-repeated belief here is that whoever prays to saint Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari won't ever be disappointed. The monument is an oasis of peace and serenity, floating in the gentle blue waters of the sea, away from the chaos of the mainland. Live qawwali and sufi music performances take place on the premise on most afternoons. Thursdays and Fridays are special days at the dargah and there is a greater surge of devotees on these days. Those visiting here often offer prayers and ask for the fulfilment of their wishes and seek blessings from the saint in whose honour this site was constructed. On special religious occasions like Urs (death anniversary of the saint) and Eid (Islamic religious festival), this heritage monument is beautifully decorated and Islamic rituals are observed. 

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Established in 1952, the Jehangir Art Gallery is a prime exhibition space that houses many art masterpieces. An important centre for contemporary artists, this modern art gallery takes pride in discovering new talent in India. It is located in the Kala Ghoda neighbourhood of south Mumbai, which is the throbbing nerve centre of the art scene in the city. Over the years, the Jehangir Art Gallery has been closely associated with the development of contemporary Indian art. A prestigious venue for aspiring Indian artists in the city, the gallery conducts regular lectures, workshops and discussions on the various forms of art. All this makes it an excellent platform for aspiring artists, art critics as well as art patrons to come together and engage with each other. Over the years, the Jehangir Art Gallery has exhibited works of eminent artists like MF Hussain, SH Raza, Akbar Padamsee, Ram Kumar, Anjolie Ela Menon and KK Hebbar. The displays in this art gallery change regularly and almost 300 art shows are held here annually.  

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A popular stopover for birdwatchers, the Karnala Bird Sanctuary lies at a distance of about 52 km from Mumbai. The biodiversity of the Western Ghats makes it a great habitat for birds and the sanctuary was especially favoured by renowned Indian ornithologist Dr Salim Ali. Its proximity to the Patalganga river and the richness of the woodland vegetation ensures that this park boasts an extremely diverse flora and fauna with over 150 species of resident and 37 species of migratory birds, which visit the sanctuary in winter each year. Around 23 water dishes made of cement are kept at strategic places to provide water to animals and birds. The Hariyal Nature Trail in the sanctuary offers great bird-sighting experiences, especially during the monsoon. For those seeking a more in-depth insight into the fascinating life of birds, the 6-km-long Mortaka Trail is an amazing spot with its fascinating array of bird and butterfly life. Apart from the many hiking trails and picnic spots, this sanctuary is also known for the Karnala Fort that rests on top of the hills. Located at an altitude of 445 m above sea level, this fort was built in the 12th century as a vantage point to govern the trade route between Bhor Ghat (a mountain passage in the Western Ghats) and Mumbai. At the bottom of the funnel hill of the fort there are 12 water storage tanks built with basalt rock to collect and retain rain water all around the year. The Karnala Bird Sanctuary is home to exotic bird species like the peregrine and shikra and also invites many trekkers who come here to escape the city and soak in the tranquility and isolation of this region. 

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The twin hill stations of Lonavala and Khandala are popular weekend holiday getaways for those who come to Mumbai. Lonavla is about 96 km from Mumbai and about a 10-minute drive away from  Khandala. Well known for chikki (brittle sweet made with jaggery and peanuts) and fudge, these hill stations offer scenic views of the valley, hills and tiny villages tucked away in the folds of the Western Ghats. Lonavala offers many picnic spots options like Ryewood Park and the garden adjacent to the Valvan Dam. Duke’s Nose, a cliff about 12 km from Lonavala, is popular with hikers and thrill-seekers. Tiger’s Leap, also known as Tiger’s Point, is a clifftop with a sheer drop of over 650 m, giving a panoramic view of the region. Sunil Kandaloor’s celebrity wax museum is another popular attraction for tourists who come to Lonavla and Khandala, where they can click selfies with popular Indian and international celebrities, including Sachin Tendulkar and Dr APJ Abdul Kalam.

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This historic building, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, chronicles the story of India’s independence from British rule. Today, Mani Bhavan is a museum and a research centre that houses a library, a picture gallery and memorabilia related to the freedom movement. But between 1917 and 1934, it was the focal point of the political activities of Mahatma Gandhi. It witnessed a historic four-day fast conducted by Gandhiji back in 1921, to restore peace in Mumbai. It was in Mani Bhavan that Gandhiji started his association with the charkha or the spinning wheel. Interestingly, the initiations of noted agitations like the Civil Disobedience, Satyagraha, Swadeshi, Khadi and Khilafat movements took place in this historical building. A walk through its exalted corridors takes us back to the political struggles held during the Indian freedom movement. The photo section in the museum has a lot of information and can be an invaluable guide for those interested in revisiting the history of India.

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A walk down the beautiful sea facing promenade, Marine Drive, is a must-do, when in Mumbai. This road has been given the nickname Queen's necklace because at night, the street lights along this curving three and a half kilometre long road create the illusion of a string of pearls around a neck. The sight of sparkling waters of the Arabian Sea combined with the cool, fresh breeze that blows in, makes this area one of the most exclusive and expensive real estate hubs in Mumbai. An array of restaurants offering a diverse range of cuisine can also be found here. Marine Drive with its glittering skyscrapers, paved walkways and the sea as a backdrop, make for a picture-perfect postcard and are an ideal hang-out spot for all age groups. A fun thing to do here is to hire one of the colourfully decorated horse chariots and ride along the wide road, much like the stars do in the movies.    

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When in Mumbai, you can head to one of India's smallest and most quaint hill stations, Matheran, for a quick weekend getaway. One of the coolest spots in the Karjat Tahsil, Raigad District of Maharashtra, it is located in the Western Ghats. Matheran literally means forest on top or woodland overhead and the name aptly fits the 800-m-high hill town. The interesting thing about Matheran is that vehicles are banned here and one can easily be transported to the quaintness and peace of times long ago while vacationing at this spot. It's proximity to major cities makes it a more viable option. It lies about 90 km from Mumbai, 120 km from Pune and about 320 km from Surat. This pocket in the hills was discovered in 1850 by the then British Collector of Thane, Huge Mallet.The Kalavantin Durg or Fort near Matheran is a perfect day time trek option. You can lose yourself in the wilderness of the fort, which is located at an elevation of over 2,000 ft. The most striking aspect of this ancient structure is the series of rock-cut steps that snake up to the top. The panoramic view from the pinnacle has to be seen to be believed. 

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When in Mumbai, you can head to one of India's smallest and most quaint hill stations, Matheran, for a quick weekend getaway. One of the coolest spots in the Karjat Tahsil, Raigad District of Maharashtra, it is located in the Western Ghats. Matheran literally means forest on top or woodland overhead and the name aptly fits the 800-m-high hill town. The interesting thing about Matheran is that vehicles are banned here and one can easily be transported to the quaintness and peace of times long ago while vacationing at this spot. It's proximity to major cities makes it a more viable option.

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The building that houses the National Gallery of Modern Art today used to be a popular public hall donated to Mumbai (then Bombay) by Sir Cowasji Jehangir, a leading Parsi philanthropist and industrialist. Named as Sir CJ Hall in honour of its founding patron, this building acted as an impressive auditorium back in its heyday, with horseshoe balconies overlooking the main stage. Right from concerts by musical stalwarts like Yehudi Menuhin and Paul Robeson to freedom rallies organised by Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru and Mohammed Ali Jinnah to meetings for the Parsi Panchayat, this building has been witness to many significant moments in Indian history. It was designed by Scottish architect George Wittet (1878-1926). At that time the only other public hall in Mumbai (then Bombay) was the Town Hall and this new public hall soon became the hub of culture, frequented by the elite of the city. Over the years, the auditorium fell into disuse, especially after newer venues with air conditioning, better acoustics, lighting and other amenities cropped up in the vicinity. Soon the hall was only being booked for boxing matches, wedding receptions and leather goods sales. The artist community protested heavily against the deterioration of this building from a venue of high culture to one with a more bazaar-like vibe. After a concentrated effort from the art community, a 12 year renovation was undertaken that transformed the building into what we today call the National Gallery of Modern Art. It quickly went on to become an important centre in the contemporary art movement in India. Architect Romy Khosla was tasked with the restoration. Today, NGMA has five exhibition galleries, a lecture auditorium, a library, cafeteria, office and a vast storage space. This exhibition space regularly features many painting and sculpture displays along with works from artists from the international arena, both established and upcoming. 

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An effort by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to preserve the monetary heritage of the country, this museum is a must-visit. Inside the premises, you are taken through the various systems of trade, commerce and barter that flourished over the years. Coins and currencies like gold bars, paper notes etc., of various dynasties have been exhibited here. The museum also holds fascinating quizzes and slideshows for children.

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This national park, on the periphery of Mumbai, is an ecological paradise rich in plant and animal life. Hosting over 254 species of birds, 40 species of mammals, 78 species of reptiles and amphibians, 150 species of butterflies and over 1,300 species of plants, the Sanjay Gandhi National Park holds many attractions for naturalists, birdwatchers and tourists across the globe. The best thing about the park is about 103 sq km of pure wilderness, right in the heart of a bustling city. The rich biodiversity of this park owes much to its lakes, which were constructed in the 19th century.

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A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Temple at Prabhadevi is a much revered place of worship in Mumbai. Built in the year 1801, this temple is visited by people belonging to almost all sects of the society. The temple has a small mandapam (hall), where the main idol is enshrined. Boasting an exquisite architecture, the sanctum sanctorum has been fitted with wooden doors that have been meticulously carved with the images of the Ashtavinayaka or the eight manifestations of Lord Ganesha. In what is considered an unusual imagery, the temple’s idol was carved out of a single black stone with the trunk positioned towards the right, as opposed to the more commonly seen left-side curl. The idol has four hands known as Chaturbhuj. The upper right holds a lotus while the upper left hand holds a small axe. A bowl full of modaks (an Indian sweet), along with holy beads can also be seen. The upper floors of the temple host the residential quarters of its priests. Though the temple remains crowded throughout the week, it receives the maximum number of devotees on Tuesdays. On each side of the Ganesha idol are placed one idol each of Goddesses Riddhi and Siddhi, who symbolise sanctity, success, wealth and prosperity. The name 'Siddhivinayak' literally translates to Ganesha who grants your wish. In the periphery, there is a Hanuman temple as well. One of the narrow lanes that lead up to the temple is called the phool gali and has a large number of vendors selling flower garlands, tulsi (basil) leaves, coconuts and sweets, which can be offered to the god.   

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One of the oldest organised yoga centres in the world, the Yoga Institute is a non-profit organisation run by the government. Founded by Shri Yogendraji in 1918, it is located in Santacruz (East). Yogendraji wanted to bring the ancient practice of Yoga to households to help people cope with physical ailments and live balanced lives, and that is believed to be the aim with which he set up the institute. He is often referred to as the Father of the Modern Yoga Renaissance. The institute holds an eminent position in training thousands of people everyday by informing them about the health benefits of yoga. It also offers training courses on teaching yoga. There have been many books published by the institute to help further its aim, relating to yoga therapy, couples' counselling, asanas, pranayam, ethics, traditional scriptures etc. 

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The city of Mumbai lies on the coastline of Maharashtra and to protect it, many forts were constructed in its long history. One of those is the Vasai Fort, also known as Bassein Fort, significant militarily to oversee the surrounding areas of Mumbai, Thane and Saashti. Located in the Vasai suburb of North Mumbai, the walls of the fort, though in ruins, still have enough in them to make you wonder at its architectural marvel. Due to its strategic location, the fort has witnessed many battles. It was under the control of the Portuguese army till the early 18th century. The Maratha kingdom, under the leadership of Bajirao Peshwa, waged a few battles to claim it for their own. After the initial unsuccessful attempt in 1737 to capture Vasai, the Maratha leader Chimajiappa, was handed over this task. A lot of research and reconnaissance went into planning the next attack and after a swift and well-planned guerilla campaign, the Maratha army finally captured the fort in 1739. The remnants of chapels, watchtowers and staircases in the ruins of this fort under the cover of large palm trees tell many stories from that time period. Because of its history as a Portuguese settlement, there are a few graves with carvings in Latin and remains of an ancient church that can also be seen. The ramparts, arches and watchtowers are hauntingly beautiful and many visitors prefer to shoot their wedding photos here. The wild overgrown vegetation as well as coconut and palm tree cover adds to the beauty of the wilderness. There are a few trails that let you go up to the edge of the fort from where gorgeous views of the Ulhas river and the setting sun can be seen. The fort has also been used as a location for many Bollywood films like Josh,  Khamoshi and Ram Gopal Verma Ki Aag. 

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The 19th-century Victorian Gothic and 20th-century Art Deco Ensembles of Mumbai were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site List in 2018. About 94 buildings stand along the sea and are conjoined by Oval Maidan, a historical open space. Some of the popular buildings include the Old Secretariat (1857-74), the Bombay High Court (1878), University Library and Convention Hall (1874-78), David Sasoon Library (1870), the Public Works Department Office (1872), Watson’s Hotel (1869), Elphinstone College(1888), etc.

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The Warli tribe is among the largest tribes of Maharashtra region and lives on the outskirts of Mumbai, in the North Sahyadri region. The womenfolk of this tribe paint indigenous paintings and art known as Warli tribal wall paintings. These are generally done on the mud walls of their houses. This art form can be traced back to 10th century AD but was first discovered and appreciated for its distinctive style only in the early 70s. It generally takes inspiration from normal life routine and surroundings. The tribes of this region living across the cities from Dahanu, Mokhada, Talasari and pockets of Palghar district believe that nature is the best teacher and also their biggest benefactor. Activities from daily life like farming, food gathering, village life and elements from nature and wildlife are typical characteristics of this ethnic art. The colours and materials used for the paintings are derived from nature like brown and orange from henna, indigo from dye, red from bricks and white from thick rice paste. Cleverly modified bamboo sticks are used as paint brushes to create the paintings.

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One of the biggest ghats that is also furthest south to the main ghats, Assi draws devotees in droves. This place is particularly important as it is here that River Ganga meets the Assi river. Visitors come here to worship a lingam of Lord Shiva, kept beneath a peepal tree. The evening arti (a holy fire ritual) held here is a spectacular sight when mantras are chanted, conches are blown and even the air feels heavy with a spiritual fervour. This ghat is also a starting point for boating rides and one can come here to enjoy early-morning yoga sessions and devotional music. 

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The Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is one of the oldest varsities in India. It was founded by renowned social reformer and freedom fighter Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, in 1916, with the assistance of British socialist Dr Annie Besant. The sprawling 1,300-acre main university campus located on the outskirts of Varanasi was built on land donated by the ruler of Kashi. The university counts many freedom fighters, as well as a great number of scholars, artistes and scientists among its alumni. With well-maintained roads, a large temple, an airstrip and several buildings of architectural significance, the university, with a dense green cover, resembles a sub-city. Its wide streets are lined with trees on either side and make for great walking avenues. With accommodation available for over 30,000 students within the main campus, BHU is one of the largest residential universities in Asia. One should visit this campus for its unique buildings and a museum called Bharat Kala Bhavan, which lies within the premises. The museum houses miniature paintings, palm-leaf manuscripts, sculptures and history displays. These highly valuable archives are more than a lakh in number. One can also interact with the locals and students while visiting the campus.

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Varanasi is a major handicraft and textile centre renowned for its fine craftsmanship. Banarasi sarees, which are traditionally woven in Varanasi, are among the finest, most well-crafted sarees in India. They are known for their fine quality of silk and opulent zari (gold and silver brocade) woven patterns depicting floral motifs.

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Bhadohi, also known as the carpet city, is a small hamlet about 16 km away from the city of Varanasi. Known for its colourful, handmade carpets, Bhadohi is home to the one of the largest hand-knit and handwoven carpet industries in South Asia. It draws admirers and shoppers from across the country. It is believed that the craft of carpet-making was introduced in Bhadohi in the 16th century by Iranian travellers.

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Spread over an area of 78 sq km in the Vindhya mountains, the forest of the Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary has been named after the Chandraprabha river, which means the luminescence of moon. The river is a tributary of River Karamnasha and both of them pass through the forest to finally meet River Ganges. The sanctuary was established in 1957 and was once famous for Asiatic lions.

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Located around 40 km from the city of Varanasi, Chunar is an ancient town on the banks of River Ganges. A popular attraction in this town is Chunar Fort that was established by Maharaja Vikramaditya, king of Ujjain, for his brother, Raja Bhartihari. The fort is sprawled across an area of 34,000 sq ft and is a solid structure standing on a rock. Since it is located on a steep slope, it used to be practically impregnable. From here, one can get splendid views of the gushing Ganges as it flows in its pristine glory.

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One of the oldest and the most sacred ghats in the holy city of Varanasi is Dashashwamedh. This place is most famous for its Ganga arti ( a holy fire ritual), which is an elaborate and lively ceremony that takes place at dusk everyday. Amid blowing of conch shells, ringing of  bells, clanging of brass cymbals and chanting chorus of mantras, priests venerate the Ganga, the lifeline of Varanasi, with brass lamps that rise several tiers. The priests performing the arti are all draped in similar clothing-- a kurta and dhoti. The preparations for the arti include collecting five elevated planks, an idol of Goddess Ganga, flowers and incense sticks. Rituals of the arti are performed by those learned in the Vedas and Upanishads and are led by the head priest of the Gangotri Seva Samiti. The arti lasts about 45 minutes. Devotees float smaller diyas on leaf platters in the river as an obeisance to the holy Ganga. As the sunlight recedes, the innumerable lamps flowing in the water make for an unforgettable sight. The hour-long ritual can be watched from the ghat or boats moored at the river bank.

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Harish Chandra ghat is one of the two cremation ghats and is also known as Adi Manikarnika, which means the original creation ground. It is much smaller than Manikarnika that is a more significant ghat for cremation. However, Hindus come from distant places to this ghat to have their dead cremated here as many believe that they would get moksha (salvation). This is one of the oldest ghats in the holy city of Varanasi and has been named after mythological king Harish Chandra. It is said that the king once worked on this ghat for the perseverance of truth and charity. The gods impressed with his endeavours rewarded him and restored his lost kingdom and dead son to him. The ghat was modernised in 1980s when an electric crematorium was established here.

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The city of Varanasi is the birthplace of the mystic poet and saint Kabir Das. Kabir Chaura, a neighbourhood in central Varanasi, is said to be the place where he lived. In his honour, a memorial called Kabir Math has been erected that boasts paintings depicting the events of the saint's life. Tourists can also visit the nearby Ramapura locality, which is popular for being the home of a large number of illustrious artistes, including classical musicians Pandit Bade Ramdas, Harishankar Mishra, tabla player Samta Prasad, and vocalists brothers Rajan and Sajan Mishra. Also known as the “mohalla of musicians”, the Banaras gharana (school) of music has thrived here. 

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The Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary is a serene forested area located around 100 km from Varanasi. Spread over an area of 1,342 sq km, the sanctuary is dotted with several waterfalls, of which the finest are, Karkat and Telhar falls. The sanctuary is most famous for its blackbuck population and is home to several other animals like tiger, leopard, wild boar, sloth bear, sambar deer, chital, four-horned antelope and nilgai. Apart from these, crocodiles, pythons and other different species of snakes are also found. The place is a paradise for birdwatchers who can spot more than 70 species of resident birds during the year, along with many migratory birds. Some of the common bird species that one can find here are the brahmini duck, pintail, red-crested poacher, coot, common teal, mallard and tufted duck. Visitors can go up to watchtowers or to the waterholes to get good views.

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One of the most auspicious and sacred ghats of the Hindus, Manikarnika is a significant ground for cremation. It is located between Dashashwamedh Ghat and Scindia Ghat. There is a pond nearby Manikarnika Ghat that is believed to have been dug by Lord Vishnu so that Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti could bathe. A footprint near the pond is said to belong to Lord Vishnu, left from the time when he had meditated in Varanasi. As one goes up the steps, they can see a well-known tank, called Manikarnika well. Legend has it that Goddess Parvati dropped her earring here and Lord Shiva dug a hole to find it. It is said that the depression was filled with his sweat, thereby resulting in a well.

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Mirzapur lies about 51 km from Varanasi and draws devotees and nature lovers alike. Vindhyachal, a small town in the district of Mirzapur, is the highlight of the place. Situated on the banks of River Ganges, it is one of the most famous shaktipeeths (place where the severed body parts of Goddess Shakti fell) of Goddess Vindhyavasini. It also finds mention in ancient scriptures and as per the reference, Goddess Vindhyavasini is believed to be an instant bestower of blessings. The town boasts many other shrines dedicated to the goddess. Its many ghats and structures that date back to the British era are also quite interesting. 

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Ramnagar Fort is located on the eastern bank of River Ganges, opposite to Tulsi Ghat, in Varanasi. The 18th-century red sandstone fort was built in Mughal style by the ruler of Kashi, Maharaja Balwant Singh. It is said to be the ancestral home of the Maharaja of Banaras. A 30-minute boat ride away from Varanasi, the fort is an imposing sight, rising from the bank of the river. It houses a temple dedicated to Ved Vyasa, the author of the Mahabharata, along with a popular temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. A museum inside the compound showcases collectables belonging to the royal family. It is known for its exhibits of antique scripts and scriptures, vintage furniture, cars, royal costumes, gold and silver brocaded palanquins and elephant saddles carved out of silver. There is an armoury that contains swords and old guns from Burma (Myanmar), Japan and some African countries, and a rare astronomical clock, which shows the month, week, day, time and other astronomical details about the position of planets, moon and sun. The clock was built in the 19th century in the court of a king of Varanasi. It is said that Ved Vyasa lived and did penance in Ramnagar and thus the fort was built in his honour. The fort palace appears most vibrant during the one-month-long Ram Leela festival held in the months of October-November, where scenes from the epic Ramayana are enacted.

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One of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage centres in the world, Sarnath, is located just 10 km away from Varanasi. It is believed that after attaining nirvana (enlightenment), Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon here, sanctified as the Maha Dharma Chakra Pravartan Sutra. Sarnath has several structures from the time – such as the Dhamekh Stupa, which marks the spot where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon and the Chaukhandi Stupa, where Lord Buddha met his first five disciples.

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The Old City is sometimes referred to as Vishwanatha Khanda. It is flanked by Dashashwamedha Ghat and Godaulia on south and west, and the Manikarnika Ghat on the north. Visitors can walk through a maze of narrow alleys and the Vishwanatha Gali (lane) to reach the Vishwanatha or Vishweshwara temple complex. 

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Started by KCS Paniker, who was not only a legendary artist but also a revolutionary thinker, Cholamandal Artists’ Village was established in 1966. The village is the perfect place for anyone who has even a slight inclination towards art, culture and craft. So, whether you are an artist, art buyer, art lover, art connoisseur or simply someone curious about Indian art, Cholamandal Artists’ Village has something to offer to everyone. Housed within the campus are museums, art galleries, an open-air theatre, a bookstore, a craft shop as well as a restaurant where you can spend your time enjoying the essence of everything handmade. 

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This heritage museum houses over 4,000 artefacts and 1,000,000 pictures relating to the rich heritage of South Indian states. The museum has been designed to look like a village and one can get an interesting insight into the lifestyle of South Indians by visiting here. About 18 authentic houses, each with its unique exhibition, stand here. The museum was opened to the public on December 14, 1996.

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Among the first British fortresses, built in 1644, the great white Fort St George is inextricably linked to the history of the city. Today, it houses a museum that is believed to be one of the oldest surviving buildings built within the fort. The Fort St George Museum started with a small collection of objects of the British raj donated by the then Madras presidency government. Today, it houses over 3,600 registered antiquities in the collection. The best of these are on display in 10 galleries.  As you enter, an imposing marble statue of Lord Cornwallis, former governor-general of India, greets visitors. An imposing display of swords, daggers, rifles, pistols, mortars, helmets, batons, bows, arrows and more can also be seen. Moreover, one can see displays of uniforms of various ranks of the British army. Tableware, porcelain, portraits, canvas oil paintings, church silverware and a palanquin of Arcot Nawabs can also be seen. The Indo-French Gallery has fine, decorated porcelain, clocks, stamps and coins, furniture, lamp shades and clocks. 

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Started in 1851, it is the second-oldest museum in India and has an enviable set of archaeological, Roman and numismatic collections. Moreover, one can find exhibits of Buddhist ruins from Amaravati. A key highlight here is the Bronze Gallery that has sculptures from the modern times to the Pallava era dating back to the 7th century. Check out the statues of Lord Shiva as Nataraja (the cosmic dancer) and a Chola bronze figurines of Ardhanarishvara, the manifestation of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. There are several archaeological representations of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain sculptures as well Anthropology galleries that actually trace South Indian human history back to prehistoric times! In fact, it is said that it has the largest collection of Roman antiquities outside Europe.

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Located adjacent to Raj Bhavan, the Guindy National Park boasts a rare type of foliage: tropical dry evergreen vegetation. Spread over a vast area of 2.7 sq km, this park is probably amongst the smallest of national parks, yet is teeming with wildlife like blackbucks, spotted deer, jackals, a variety of snakes, geckos, tortoises and over 100 species of birds and 60 species of butterflies and spiders. Sheltering over 350 species of plants, the park is a botanist’s delight. Some part of this space has a zoo and a children’s park. Another attraction is the Guindy Snake Park that houses king cobra, pythons, vipers and other reptiles. The park is open from 9 am to 5:30 pm and is shut on Tuesdays. It makes for a great place to visit with the whole family.  

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The Gujarati Shwetambar Murtipujak Jain Mandir is credited with being one of the first Jain temples in South India. Home to three beautifully carved gopurams (gateways) and five doors, the temple built completely in marble is a fine example of glass work.  The structure differs in construction from other buildings as the use of iron has been totally avoided in the temple. The idol that sits inside the premises is made of quartz.  In the central hall, one can see extensive glass work due to which the hall glows with a spectrum of colours.  It is believed that the architects, the stone carvers and the workers who were involved in the construction of the temple were hired from Rajasthan.  The deity worshipped in the temple is Lord Parsvanatha, the 23rd tirthankara (saint) of the Jains.

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In 1936, the Kalakshetra Foundation was established by Rukmini Devi Arundale. The aim of this organisation can be summed up in her own words: “with the sole purpose of resuscitating in modern India, recognition of the priceless artistic traditions of our country and of imparting to the young the true spirit of art, devoid of vulgarity and commercialism." Several notable and famous bharatanatyam performers have learnt the art form here.  The place is a testimony of Rukmini Devi's dreams. She wanted to create a space where the Indian thought would find expression through artistic education. The institution is spread over 100 acre by the seashore. It is an important centre for the study and performance of fine arts. The Government of India recognised the institute as an Institute of National Importance by an act of Indian Parliament in the year 1993 and it is now an autonomous body under Ministry of Culture, Government of India. Here, the students are taught dancing and are educated to become more that just an artiste. Their training includes learning the right attitude to life and art. Across the road, one can also visit the Kalakshetra Craft Centre. One gets a chance to see Kanchipuram-style of handloom weaving, block printing and the art of kalamkari. The centre also gives an opportunity to tourists to join various courses and learn them. 

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Believed to be one of the oldest and most revered temples of Chennai, Kapaleeswarar Temple is a shrine of Lord Shiva. In the temple, the wife of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati is worshipped in the incarnation of Goddess Karpagambal. She is believed to be the 'Goddess of the Wish-Yielding Tree'.  As a ritual of Friday worship, Goddess Karpagambal is offered a garland made of gold coins called kaasu mala.

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The Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram is one of the most popular spots to practice yoga in Chennai. This is one of the foremost institutions for yoga therapy in India. The centre follows the philosophy called yoga for the individual. This approach is called viniyoga and is used to create a tailored programme for individuals. The designed programmes are used to access the core of the problem, uproot it and then treat it. Yoga is not treated as a generalised fitness regime here but as a dedicated course of therapy. If one wants to be a part of the centre, it is done through an interview and a physical assessment test. As a part of the course, the would-be student presents the problems and the experts prescribe asanas and other exercises to cure it. While the student carries out the prescribed exercises, regular meetings are also scheduled with teachers to reassess the problem and instruct the students as and when necessary.

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Often considered to be the pride of Chennai, Marina Beach, 13 km in length, is the second-longest beach of its kind in the world. A long stretch of soft sand, Marina Beach invites tourists to unwind, take a dip in the water and indulge in local snacks. The street facing the beach is lined with one illustrious landmark after another. These include Madras University, Government departments, Senate House, Presidency College, Cricket Stadium and Swami Vivekananda Memorial House and the building of All India Radio. It is said that it was the personal favourite beach of ME Grant Duff, the erstwhile British Governor of Madras (1881-86). Sunrises and pony rides can also be enjoyed here. 

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Built in 1906, the National Art Gallery is one of the oldest of its kind in India.  Constructed with red stones sourced from Satyavedu, in Andhra Pradesh, the building is a grand structure that has been built in an Indo-Saracenic architectural style. The gallery is categorised in four segments: Decorative Art Gallery, Ravi Verma Painting, Thanjavur Painting, and Indian Traditional Art Gallery. There is a separate painting section that boasts works from Thanjavur, Rajasthan, Deccan and Kangra, along with few miniature paintings delineating battle sights. There are many other exhibits in the gallery, including historical artefacts, religious statues and sculptures. One can also see ancient handicrafts dating back to the 10th and 11th centuries. Images of Lord Rama and his wife, Goddess Sita, along with some periodic books and manuscripts are interesting additions. The building is situated near the Contemporary Art Gallery.

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The second-largest brackish water lake in the country, the beautiful Pulicat Lake lies at the border of the states of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu on the Barricade Island of Sriharikota. Also called Pazhaverkadu, the lake is popular as a flamingo-watching site and for water activities. The prime season to visit is between October and March as during that time, over 20,000 migratory birds come to the lake for breeding purposes. The lake is also known for the Pulicat Bird Sanctuary and attracts a number of tourists. Besides flamingos, one can also sight storks and kingfishers. The Pulicat Lake is situated about 60 km from Chennai in the Tiruvallur District. Spanning an area of  159 sq km, it is surrounded by colonial buildings from the Dutch-era.

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A beautiful Roman catholic cathedral in pristine white, this church has a Portuguese origin, and dates back to the 16th century. It was rebuilt in Neo-Gothic style in 1896 and is said to be the final resting place of St Thomas, the Apostle. A small cross on the tomb wall contains a tiny bone fragment referred to as the ‘Relic of St Thomas’. An underground tomb chapel is worshipped here and the devout believe that sand from the tomb has miraculous healing powers. A beautiful stained glass window at the basilica portrays the story of St Thomas and the central hall has 14 wooden plaques that depict the stations of the cross. The cathedral also has a 3-ft-high statue of Virgin Mary believed to have been brought from Portugal in 1543.

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Home to about 500 species of plants and over 80 trees, the Semmozhi Poonga is a botanical garden that is ideal for family outings. It is like a green lung right in the centre of the daily din of the city. It was designed to house indigenous and foreign plants and spreads over an area of almost 20 acre. Tall trees, small groves, lush vines, exotic flowers like orchids, green lawns, ponds and walkways add to the beauty of the park. Swings, slides, scaffolding, and a sandpit make up the in-house children’s park. Outside food is not allowed but there is a small food court located inside the park that offers a variety of delicacies.  The garden has over eight sub-gardens including rock garden, butterfly garden, fern garden and many more themed gardens; an artificial duck pond and an open seating area that can be booked for events. 

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Established in 1679 AD, the St Mary’s Church is located inside the Fort St George complex. It is one of the oldest Anglican English churches, whose 5-ft-thick walls are believed to be explosion proof. Some of the unique adornments of the church include a Bible that dates back to 1660 AD, few silver plates and a pure silver plaque, along with numerous other important artefacts. A beautiful gallery falls to the western end of the church and rests on carved Burma teak pillars. The gallery can be accessed via two curved staircases from outside. The church has been built in the European style of architecture, with the structure being constructed in a rectangular shape. The building is made of polished lime and mortar and has a uniquely curved roof, along with wooden decorations and exquisitely intricate glass work. Located in the heart of the city, the church sees thousands of footfalls every year.

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Stone carving is an ancient craft of Tamil Nadu and the temples of Chennai are famous for their mesmerising stone carving structures. The stone carvers belong to the Viswakarma community and are skilled in carving idols out of black and white granite, locally known as karappu kal and vellai kal. The first step for stone carving involves stencilling the granite stone by cutting it according to determined lines. Once the final product is ready, its surface is cleaned and smoothened to give it a shiny lustre. It is then painted as per the needed design. The themes used in making most of the stone carving articles revolve around incidents from Hindu mythological epics. Some of the articles you can shop for include small dolls, animal figurines, incense stick stands and other decorative items. 

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Tanjore paintings are a great way to beautify the interiors of your homes and are presented as gifts on special occasions. They are an indigenous art form of Thanjavur, in Tamil Nadu. They employ relief work and intense compositions involving religious figures and motifs. Semi-precious stones, pearls and glass pieces further add to their beauty. They are one of the most popular forms of South Indian paintings, which are known for their surface richness and vibrant colours.

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It is a historical monument dedicated to the well-known poet, philosopher and saint, Thiruvalluvar. The temple is built in the shape of a chariot, and is 39 m high. As you enter it, you can see a huge effigy of the saint. What makes this temple unique is that it stands without the support of any pillar. On the giant columns of the auditorium, the facade and in the hall corridors, one can find 1,330 verses of the Thirukkural, a classic Tamilian text, that was penned down by the saint about 2,000 years ago. In the construction of the temple, around 3,000 blocks of stones were used. There is also a lion on the main gateway that features a beautiful design. 

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An ideal stopover for art connoisseurs, the Academy of Fine Arts boasts many interesting exhibits that will leave you in awe of the rich heritage of the city. This cultural hub, built in 1933, has around eight galleries for exhibiting art on the ground level, along with a museum that showcases art and artists over the ages. There are many paintings and sculptures housed here from 1900 to the present. Dance and theatre performances take place at the hall. One gallery, dedicated to Rabindranath Tagore, has an impressive display of textiles, sculptures and miniature paintings from India. There are also several paintings from the middle and modern era, including a showstopper of sorts by Jamini Roy. Also well-known are the ancient textiles displayed in the Gallery of Old Textiles. You can find exhibits of patola, dakhai, jamdani and Benarasi silk articles. Another attraction is the Carpet Gallery, where you can find mesmeric displays of Persian carpets. The Gallery of Miniature Paintings boasts 18 miniature paintings from the Ram-Sita series, while the Gallery of Contemporary Art, gives you a fascinating insight into the history of art in the city. The auditorium of the academy is a must-visit and hosts dramas, theatre and dance performances throughout the year. You can also rope in a painting and sculpting class at the Studio and Sketching Club of the academy.

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India's oldest formally stated zoological park, this heritage zoo is home to various animals, birds and reptiles. Some of the popular species you can find are Bengal tigers, white tigers, African lions, giraffe, zebra, Galapagos giant tortoise, pelican and pheasant. It also housed the Aldabra giant tortoise, Adwaita. He was said to be over 250 years old when he died in 2006.

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One of the most prominent stopovers of Kolkata, Armenian Church is located at Armenian Street, near the Howrah Bridge. It is believed to be the oldest church in the city and was built in 1764. The architecture of the church is a visual treat and the interiors are decorated with marble, while the overhead gallery is adorned with mural tablets. There is a cross at the altar of this church, with the Gospels and 12 candlesticks representing the Christ and the Apostles. Besides, you will find three oil paintings that represent the Holy Trinity. Tourists can also find the remains of an Armenian cemetery in the church. This graveyard houses the city's oldest known grave of an Armenian woman, Rezabeebeh, who was buried in 1630. The compound also hosts a monument dedicated to Armenians who died during World War 1.

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A premier museum of national importance, Asutosh Museum of Indian Art is one of the best places to study Kolkata's fascination with art. It boasts a rich collection of paintings, scrolls, coins, sculptures, folk-art objects, woodcuts, textiles and other decorative arts from all over the country. Housing about 25,000 exhibits, it is a university museum. A highlight is the Yakshini sculpture with Panchachuda that can be dated back to the 1st century AD. You can also watch out for a uniquely illustrated paper manuscript from Nepal. This can be dated back to 1105 AD. Don't miss the Ramayana manuscript believed to be written by Tulsidas.

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Beautiful terracotta temples, lush forests, scenic views as well as rich art and architecture attract tourists from all over the country to Bankura, located about 200 km from Kolkata. Endowed with a rugged topography of hills, Bankura also invites hikers and trekkers. Bankura is most popular as a city of temples and the Siddheswara Temple is a must-visit. Tourists can also visit Susunia Hill, Biharinath Hill and Koko Hill. A major attraction is the renowned Bankura horses that are used for both religious and decorative purposes. They are a fine example of terracotta craftsmanship and are distinguished by an erect neck and pointed ears. These horses are generally six inches to four feet in height and feature wide jaws. You can shop for these articles in Bishnupur, Nakaijuri, Kamardiha and Biboda, in West Bengal.

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Sprawled along the western banks of River Hooghly, Belur Math is a popular pilgrimage site. The headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, it invites people from all over the region. The temple has a beautiful architecture that features an amalgamation of Hindu, Islamic and Christian motifs that point to a secular unity. The temple houses a museum as well as educational institutions. Belur Math was founded by Swami Vivekananda, who was a disciple of Ramakrishna Paramhansa. The shrines in the complex are dedicated to Swami Vivekananda, Holy Mother Sri Sarada Devi and Sri Ramakrishna. The main monastery of the order is also housed in the temple complex, which has played host to personalities like Swami Vivekananda and other monastic disciples of Sri Ramakrishna. Belur Math has also been visited by Sri Sarada Devi.

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Located about 200 km from Kolkata, the quaint village of Bikna is the crafts hub of the state. It is best known for dokra artefacts that have been made here since the last 150 years. Bikna has become a centre of dokra artists and their habitation is called Shilpadanga. Dokra, the art of lost wax metal casting, is now practiced only by a few artisans who are limited to this tiny village. Their ancestors originally migrated from Madhya Pradesh. There is a total of 36 families who know this craft which uses folk motifs in simple designs to create decor items of rare charm. 

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A hub of fine arts, Birla Academy of Art and Culture is home to a museum that showcases the growth and development of Indian art from the 1st century BC till date. Along with modern western art, there are several examples of art by contemporary artists of India. There are regular all-India exhibitions, solo shows, group exhibitions and kala melas organised here. Besides, there are educational programmes, lectures, seminars, film shows and art appreciation classes. There is a library with many books, journals and periodicals. There have been many international artists who have displayed their creations here, including shows by French sculptor Rodin, Henry Moore and Picasso. Along with Russian festival shows, German Expressionist graphics and French designs, porcelains from Britain, America and China have also graced this space. In collaboration with the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) and the USIS, well known American plays have also been staged here. To encourage contemporary art and artists, the academy rents out its galleries on the 2nd and 4th floors as well as its auditorium at very nominal rates.

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A cluster of red brick buildings tucked away in the city of Kolkata, Bow Barracks is one of the busiest neighbourhoods. It was built to house the soldiers of World War I and was later turned into apartments for the Anglo-Indian population of the city.

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Situated on the banks of River Ganga, Chandannagar is a serene spot with several historical buildings and a meditation centre. A great place for relaxation, it lies in the interiors of Bengal, about 50 km from Kolkata. The major attraction is the Chandannagar Museum that houses gorgeous artefacts from the British and the French rule, along with relics from the Nawab rule. The museum has an institute that offers French classes. Tourists can also head to Patal Bari, literally meaning the underground house. The striking feature of this house is that its lowest floor remains submerged in the Ganges. Another attraction is the Sacred Heart Church that has been built in the French style. This 200-year-old structure is made of white stone and looks splendid during sunsets.

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One of the largest settlements of Chinese migrants in the country, who moved here in the 18th century, Chinatown is a delight to visit. Lying in the eastern fringes of the city, around the Tangra and Territy Bazaar area, Chinatown boasts a vibrant neighbourhood. Most of the doors are brightly painted and have paper lamps hanging in front, giving a festive feel. Chinese culture is clearly visible here, with several Buddhist temples, an old Chinese pastry shop and the reputation for serving authentic Chinese cuisine at its various restaurants and bars (though one will still find elements of Indian ingredients and hints of Bengali flavours). One can buy souvenirs along with authentic Chinese sauces, dried mushrooms, rice sticks, oil sticks, therapeutic teas and balms, prawn wafers and spices from the several roadside shops. A major attraction is the Chinese Temple that has an idol of Lord Shiva and two of Goddess Kali. It is the only Chinese temple in the world to have these idols. Interestingly, this temple once had a Chinese priest and noodles were offered to the goddess.

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The largest book market of the country, College Street, offers an unmatched variety of new and old books for the happy reader. In colloquial language, it is called ' Boi Para', which roughly translates into book locality. It is said to be the brains of the cerebral city and many believe that if you can't find a book in college street, it probably hasn't been printed. College Street is considered as the largest second-hand book locality in Asia. Visitors can shop for books to their hearts' [ "content" ] and then unwind with a cold beverage in Paramount Cold Drinks and Syrups, one of the oldest sherbet joints in the city. It has been visited by famous names like Subhash (Subhas) Chandra Bose, Satyajit Ray, Saurav Ganguly, Uday Shankar. There are several Bengali publication houses here. Tourists can also visit Vidyasagar Sarovar known as College Square, and the well-known hub for intellectuals  the Indian Coffee House.

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One of the most prominent shrines in the city, Dakshineswar Kali Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali. Located on the banks of the Hooghly river, the temple sprawls over an area of 25 acre. The main temple is a nine-spired structure and is surrounded by a huge courtyard that has rooms along the boundary. On the riverfront, there are about 12 shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, along with a temple of Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha and a shrine of Rani Rashmoni, who is believed to have constructed the temple. She was an ardent devotee of Goddess Kali. The temple is also known for its association with Ramakrishna, a mystic of the 19th century. Legend has it that the idols of the goddess and gods were established on the snana-yatra day, which is considered auspicious by the Hindus.

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The biggest ecological and urban park in India, Eco Park is spread over an area of 480 acre and surrounded by a 104-acre water body. It has three sections: the ecological areas such as wetlands, grasslands and urban forest, theme gardens and open spaces, and urban recreational spaces. There are many attractions here including the Biswa Bangla Haat, Children's Eco Park, Floating Musical Fountain, Butterfly Garden, Bamboo Garden, Fruits Garden, Adda Zone, Grass Land, Tea Garden, Mask Garden, Formal Garden, Seven Wonders and Eco Island. Besides, there is a play area for children, along with facilities for kayaking, paddle boating, ice skating, duo cycling and much more, all of which make it an ideal spot for family picnics. It has been conceptualised by Honourable Chief Minister Ms Mamata Banerjee.

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The largest cricket stadium in India and the second-largest in the world in terms of seating capacity it has space for one lakh cricket fans - Eden Gardens is the hub of cricket in the city. It is the third-biggest cricket stadium in the world after the Melbourne Cricket Ground and ANZ Stadium, and is one of the cricket stadiums in the world to have a giant electronic scoreboard. Eden Gardens is among the first few stadiums in India with floodlights where day-and-night matches are held. Several important cricketing events, both local and international, including the World Cup 1987 final, the World Cup 1996 semi-final and the Hero Cup have been held here. Test matches, one-dayers and Twenty 20 international matches have also been played here. It is the home ground for the Bengal Cricket Team and the IPL's Kolkata Knight Riders.

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Lying in the vicinity of the New Market area, Esplanade is said to be a haven for shoppers. From a plethora of apparels and toiletries to daily use products, fashion items and cosmetics, there's a lot on offer in this market area. Tourists can indulge in street shopping or head to various high-end brands standing here. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose statue stands proud towards the southwest and you can reach the Bidhan Sabha (Assembly House) with a short walk. Esplanade lies to the north of the Maidan and includes colonial-era buildings as well as the Dalhousie Square. The marketplace is reminiscent of the British Raj as the buildings in and around Esplanade boast typical British architectural styles. Esplanade is an important business centre of the city.

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If one looks below the Howrah Bridge, at Mallick Ghat on the banks of River Hooghly, they will see the largest wholesale flower market of east India. This 125-year-old market opens at 4 am and sees brisk business as everyone - from flower merchants to people in search of a garland for their puja at home - comes here in droves. From roses to marigold to lotus, there is a huge variety available. The market extends from under the Howrah Bridge to the Mallick Ghat. It is lined with flower shops on either side and presents a surreal view. Flowers from this market are not only supplied to almost all important functions and events in the city but also exported to Europe.

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Located around 100 km from Kolkata, the beautiful island of Gangasagar lies on the Ganges Delta or the Sunderbans. Also known as Sagar Island or Sagardwip, it boasts a beautiful beach with silver sands and a calm sea with the blue sky forming a charming backdrop. This secluded and unspoilt beach lies on the estuary of the Ganges river. An old lighthouse adds a vintage charm to the beach, from where you can get splendid views of sunrises and sunsets. Gaze in awe as the burning orb of the sun slides down the horizon or peeks above it, painting the sky in myriad shades of red and orange.

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Being the central post office of Kolkata, the General Post Office is in charge of most of the inbound and outbound letters and parcels of the city. Designed by Walter B Grenvile (who was consulting architect to the Indian Government between 1863 and 1868) in 1864 and completed in 1868, it has towering ionic-corinthian pillars that are hailed for their grandeur. Its high-domed roof, rising to 220 ft, is also well-known. The dome has a huge clock on it and it is supported by an octagonal base and 28 Corinthian pillars. The cost of construction of the General Post Office is pegged at Rs 6,30, 510.

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A landmark of the city, Howrah Bridge, constructed over the Hooghly river, is a huge steel bridge built during the British era. Believed to be one of the longest cantilever bridges in the world, this 705 meter structure links Howrah city to Kolkata and is fondly known as Howrah Bridge. Built in 1943, it was called the New Howrah Bridge. It is also called

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The hub of students and alumni of Presidency College (and other colleges), which is located right opposite, as well as intellectuals, the Indian Coffee House was founded in 1942. Since then, it has continued to host top poets, artistes, literati and filmmakers including Satyajit Ray, Amartya Sen, Mrinal Sen, Aparna Sen, Ritwik Ghatak, Narayan Gangopadhyay, Sunil Gangopadhyay, Sanjeev Chattopadhyay, Samaresh Majumdar, Subhas Mukhopadhyay and Shakti Chattopadhyay. Indian Coffee House is hailed as the venue for the well-known hungry generation literary and cultural movement in which the poet brothers Malay Roychoudhury and Samir Roychoudhury were arrested for having pioneered this movement. There are many magazines that have taken birth during discussions over cups of coffee here. It is known by all as College Street Coffee House even though it stands on Bankim Chatterjee Street.

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Considered as one of the most sacred sites in the city, the ISKCON Temple at Nabadwip draws more than a million devotees or guests every year. The first centre of ISKCON in India was established by Srila AC Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada on Albert Road, in August 1970. In May 1971, the first deity was established in this temple and prayers were started. The first rath yatra was started on July 12, 1972 and saw enthusiastic participation from the locals. There used to be a small room reserved for Srila Prahupada next to the temple hall, which had a typewriter, a dictating machine, the Srimad Bhagavatam and a picture of Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati, his spiritual guru. His personal belongings are still there.

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The ancestral home of poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore's family, Jorasanko Thakur Bari or the House of the Thakurs lies to the north of Kolkata city. Tagore was born in this house and spent much of his childhood here. Today, the house has been restored and turned into Tagore Museum, which makes for an exciting visit. One can find several historical nuggets about the Tagore family, including their contribution to Bengal Renaissance and Brahmo Samaj. Of note are 700 paintings exhibited here, along with a self-composed invite of Tagore's wedding. Divided into three galleries, the museum also houses various books, manuscripts and antiques.

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One of the most prominent temples in the city, Kalighat Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kali, draws devotees from far and wide. The temple is one of the 51 shaktipeethas (devotional shrines where the severed body parts of Goddess Sati fell), where the toe of the goddess fell.

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A majestic pristine white structure, Town Hall is one of the most important heritage buildings of the city. Built in the Doric style of architecture, Town Hall has wide steps on the front that lead to a vast portico. The building was constructed in 1814 and is a two-storey structure that was used as a venue for balls, concerts, receptions and public meetings. These generally took place on the first floor that has a 30-ft-high ceiling and is boarded with shining teak. The building has a carriage entrance at the back under the portico.

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A unique neighbourhood in Kolkata, Kumartoli is renowned for its tradition of making clay idols for the Durga puja celebrations. Located on the banks of the Hooghly river, this potter's hub is home to around 30 women artisans and many talented male artisans, who create beautiful clay idols of Hindu gods and goddesses. Most of these idols feature Goddess Durga, a lion said to be her mount and Mahishasur, the demon she is believed to have slain.

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Lal Dighi is an artificial water tank that is said to have been built before the British arrived in India. The British used to call it 'The Great Tank' or 'Dalhousie Square'. During Holi or Dol festival, its waters would turn red because of the colours of the festival and hence it was named 'lal dighi', which literally translates into red water in Bengali. While tourists can admire its heritage, there are options for angling as well. The tank enjoys a serene surrounding as it enveloped by tall trees and lush bushes. Several other heritage buildings like Andrew's Church, Writers Building, High Court, General Post Office lie in close proximity to the tank. Lal Dighi is situated at the centre of BBD Bagh.

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A landmark heritage building, Mahajati Sadan houses a splendid cultural auditorium, which acts as a venue for magic shows, seminars, meetings and music and dance events held across the city. Another attraction is the library that shows exhibits of the freedom fighters of Bengal, along with their clay models on the first floor. You can also find pictures of these great personalities on the walls of the sadan.

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Situated at the meeting point of the River Ganga and River Jalangi, Mayapur is known for its rich customs, traditions and artistic heritage, along with its beautiful bounty of nature. Also known as the Land of the Golden Avatar, it is around 140 km from Kolkata. Speckled with temples, the city boasts some lovely views. It is a popular pilgrim centre for Vaishnavites (worshippers of Lord Vishnu) as it is believed that an avatar of Lord Krishna (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu), Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu was born in the city in 1486 AD. Mayapur is one of the nine dhams of the holy islands, which look like petals of a lotus flower. The main attraction in the city is the Chandrodaya Temple, which is the first shrine established by ISKCON in the area. Tourists can also pay their respects at the samadhi of Prabhupada, who was the founder of ISKCON. Shree Chaitanyamath, the birthplace of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, Chand Kazi's samadhi and the temple of Goswami Maharaj are other main attractions.

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Lying on the banks of the gushing Hooghly river, Millennium Park near Fairlie Ghat and opposite the Railway Club, is the hub of adventure in the city. Spread over an area of 2.5 sq km, it has a variety of amusement rides for children, along with beautifully landscaped gardens. These make it a great stopover for families. It is speckled with sculptures that add to the beauty of the park. From here, you can get splendid views of the Howrah Bridge.

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Established by Saint Mother Teresa, Missionaries of Charity or the Mother House is a Roman Catholic religious congregation. Comprising about 4,500 members, called 'Sisters', the house provides free service to the poor and also runs a soup service, along with schools to educate homeless children. This house was the abode of Mother Teresa and one area has been demarcated for the followers, who can pay their respects to the mother. Her tomb, along with several pictures of her work, and articles and awards, also lies here. You can also find some articles from her personal belonging like sarees, bag and sandals. It is said that this was the house where Mother Teresa's service to humankind began and ended. The community she built still continues to work towards saving the needy.

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Located about 200 km from Kolkata, Murshidabad boasts a rich culture and heritage. One of the main attractions is the grounds where the Battle of Plassey, between Robert Clive of East India Company and Nawab Siraj-Ud-Daula of Bengal was fought. Tourists can also shop for delicious mangoes here, as the region is quite popular for their cultivation.

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Soaked in historical charm, the 11th-century town of Nabadwip lies about 130 km from Kolkata. It is peppered with ancient temples and grand monuments, all of which preserve vestiges of its glorious past, when Nabadwip was the capital of the Sena empire under king Ballal Sen and king Lakshman Sen, who ruled between 1159 and 1206.

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This government-sponsored cultural centre was inaugurated by Oscar-winning filmmaker Satyajit Ray on September 2, 1985. He was also one of its patrons and designed the emblem that has been affixed on the building facade. There are three large motion picture theatres here that can accommodate 1,324 people; one theatre screens only art films. A grand stage along with a seminar and conference hall are also part of Nandan. It is said to be the top cultural centre of East India and is patronised by the likes of actors Utpal Dutt and Anil Chatterjee. Several books including A Poet with a Camera, 100 Years of Cinema, Bengali Film Directory have been published by Nandan. It hosts numerous national and international film festivals, seminars, discourses and annual lectures, training courses, retrospectives and exhibitions. One will find live performances of theatre and dance happening here every single day. Located on St Paul's Cathedral Road, to the southeast of the Victoria Memorial, Nandan shares space with the Rabindra Sadan cultural centre, Sisir Mancha and the Academy of Fine Arts.

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The largest library of the country by volume, the National Library boasts an extensive collection of books, featuring more than two million copies. The library also holds India's public records. The collection, dissemination and preservation of all printed material produced in the country are done here.

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A visit to the ancestral home of freedom fighter, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, makes for a unique experience. Built by Bose's father, Janakinath Bose, in the year 1909, the house was a hub of political activity once. Netaji is said to have lived here during his formative years and for most parts of the freedom struggle. Tourists can visit the well-stocked museum in the house and the library that showcases relics from the life of Netaji. The museum was set up in 1961 and has been well preserved. The bedrooms used by Netaji have been retained as they were, along with the staircase and the car used by him to escape during his house arrest. The house reflects a typical Bengali homestead and boasts pillars and a large courtyard. You can get a peek into history by going through the fine collection of documents, articles and pictures associated with Netaji.

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Popular as West Bengal's Disneyland, Nicco Park is located in Salt Lake City. It is a fascinating site that makes for a great day out, for children and adults alike. There are around 35 rides including a toy train, tilt-a-whirl, magic carpet, paddle boat, water chute, water coaster, flying saucer, pirate ship, and river caves. There is a 40-ft-high waterfall and a pretty rose garden, and these views are visible as panoramas from the park's cable car rides and the Eiffel Tower. There is even a decommissioned MIG-21 fighter plane. Nicco Park has one of Asia's largest Giant Cyclones. The park is designed to provide 'educational recreations'  fun with learning. At the entrance of each ride, details are given about the scientific principles behind how each ride works. You can also visit Wet-o-Wild, their water park, or see a rain dance performance or a 4D movie. Besides, you visit kiosks for snacks, along with shops selling souvenirs.

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Counted among the best entertainment spots on the riverside in Kolkata, Outram Ghat holds a charm of its own. Be it birth-related ceremonies or idol immersion during the festive season, it all happens at Outram Ghat, which lies to the south of Babughat. This quaint ghat lies in close proximity to the Howrah Bridge and is an ideal site to enjoy a morning or evening stroll. As the gurgling Hooghly river plays with the banks, visitors can walk along the ghat and look at the sky turning into an artist's palette during sunrises and sunsets.

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Dedicated to Pareshnath, the 23rd Jain tirthankar (saint), Pareshnath Temple is a popular stopover for devotees. It has four other temples inside its vast complex. These temples are devoted to four other avatars (holy preachers) of the Jain faith, namely, Chanda Prabhudevji, Dadagarudev Shri ji, Kushal Suri ji Maharaj and Lord Mahaveera, who was the last of the Jain tirthankaras. There is a ghee lamp in the sanctum sanctorum of the main temple that has been kept alight since the inception of the temple back in 1867. The temple floors are of white marble, symbolising the purity and the beauty of the heart.

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A street that never sleeps and is always bustling with excitement and pulsating with thrill, Park Street is a prominent tourist stopover. Lined with eateries, malls, high-end restaurants and hotels, Park Street draws huge crowds that come to sample authentic and diverse dishes of the city. During festivals of Christmas, Diwali and on New Year's Eve, the street is resplendent like a bride, and is lit with colourful and bright lights. It also hosts landmarks like St Xavier's College, Asiatic Society, The Park Hotel and South Park Street Cemetery.

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One of the oldest cemeteries of the city, Park Street Cemetery has several grand mausoleums and impressive memorials from the colonial period. Established in 1767, when the British were ruling India, it is one of the first non-church cemeteries in the world. It is spread across an area of eight acre and is bordered by brick walls. It houses an assortment of tablets, cenotaphs and epitaphs, along with around 1,600 tombs. The gravestones reflect an amalgamation of Indo-Saracenic and Gothic styles, while the sandstone tombs are built in square, rectangular and circular shapes. The tombs bear traces of European styles like Grecian urns, Romanesque cupolas, sarcophagi, pyramids, cairns and obelisks.

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Located on the banks of the Hooghly river, Princep Ghat is a majestic structure noted for its Gothic inlays. With a mesmeric backdrop of Howrah Bridge, the ghat is an ideal place to catch splendid views of sunsets and sunrises. Gaze in awe as the burning orb of the sun sinks down the horizon or peeks above it, painting the sky in myriad shades of red and orange. Tourists can stroll along the serene bank of the river and enjoy a moment of quiet as the cool breezes plays with their hair. Built in the memory of James Princep (1799 - 1840), a British Indologist, who served as the Secretary of the Asiatic Society, Princep Ghat is currently used as a venue for several cultural festivals. Its gardens are an idyllic spot to relax in natural beauty. Small boats are available for hire for short trips on the river. Short river cruises are possible on traditional wooden boats as well as speedboats. It's well-designed lighting makes the ghat stand out in the evenings.

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Made in the memory of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, Rabindra Sadan receives visitors from across the globe who are interested in witnessing Kolkata's vibrant cultural treasures. Dance, drama and other cultural programmes along with exhibitions are regularly held at the sadan.

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Set amidst picturesque surroundings and verdant gardens, Race Course makes for a beautiful stopover. It is among the largest horse race venues in the country and was established by the Bristish in 1820. Several prestigious events are held at the Race Course regularly. A hotspot for elites, it sees huge footfalls in the months of July to September and November to March, when elaborate races are held. You can catch a thrilling race on Saturdays or on public holidays. Some of the prominent races include the Calcutta Derby and the Queen Elizabeth Cup. The course is also used as a ground for polo matches.

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A monumental structure that was once the seat of British imperial power, Raj Bhavan draws tourists from far and wide and is one of the gems of the city’s heritage. A three-storeyed building, somewhat constructed like the White House, it boasts a grand central area that has generous halls. Curved corridors on all four sides lead to separate wings that are houses in themselves. The Throne Room, the Banquet Hall, the Blue Drawing Room and the Brown Dining Room are all on the central area of the first floor. So is the Council Chamber, which was the venue of many important government decisions. The governor’s apartments and the grand Ball Room are located on the second floor. There are many acres of gardens around the building and intricately carved tall gates in wrought iron with lions sitting on top.

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Popularly known as Monument, Shaheed Minar is dedicated to the martyrs of the Indian freedom movement. This 48 m-high tower has an Egyptian-style foundation while the structure itself has a classical fluted column and a Turkish dome with its upper part being designed in Syrian style. The tower is lit up at night and visitors are allowed to go up to the top where there are two balconies. A flight of 223 stairs leads up to the top. Shaheed Minar is located in the Esplanade in central Kolkata, towards the north east of the Maidan.

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One of the oldest royal houses in the city, Sovabazar (Shobhabazar) Rajbari, was constructed by Raja Nabakrishna Deb, a prominent aristocrat of the city. This palatial structure is best known today for the iconic Durga Puja celebrations that take place in October-November. Some of the notable features of this monument are the Nat Mandap, which is a centrally located open courtyard. Supported by columns that are adorned with arches and have a square base, the courtyard was once a venue for special functions and celebrations. There are double-storey wings on either side of the courtyard that connects the mandap with Naach Ghar, which is now in ruins. Sovabazar Rajbari was built in 1700 and is a mix of Moorish, Hindu and colonial styles of architecture.

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