13 attractions in Nature (back)

Partly ruined formal Mughal-era gardens restored in the 1990s, with famous Taj Mahal views, Mehtab Bagh is a garden complex spread over 25 areas of land. The garden which gets partially flooded during the Monsoon season, is square in shape measuring about 300 meters. While restoring and reconstruction the garden, all the orginal plant species were replanted inorder to make it quite similar to the garden present in Mughal period.

Mehtab Bagh is a series of 11 parks on the Yamuna's east bank which is perfectly aligned opposite to the Taj Mahal.

Dating back to the 18th century, the Lal Bagh Botanical Garden is one of the most significant landmarks of Bangalore city. Home of more than 1500 plant species, it was built by King Tipu Sultan. The king created a huge plant nursery comprising of diverse floral species from all across the world. Apart from Cubbon Park, this place is the only natural complex preserving rare and exotic plants. Spread across an area of 240 acres, the garden consists of various exhibits such as the Bonzai garden, Rose garden and Lotus garden. An elegant glasshouse built-in 1890 organizes flower shows which still take place during Independence Day and Republic Day week. The garden has a unique set of the irrigation system with lush lawns and fountains. A paradise for all the bird watchers, the garden also houses a 3,000 million-year-old peninsular gneissic rock which was used as a Watchtower by Kempe Gowda II

Sprawled over a massive 300 acres, the Cubbon Park is the green retreat region of the city of Bangalore. Created in 1870, it is a significant landmark in the city providing a prominent site for serene ambiance and a fresh atmosphere. Home to more than 6000 plants and trees, it houses exotic and rare flora all around. The current Karnataka High Court, originally known as Atta Kacheri is also located here. One of the oldest museums in India, the State Archaeological Museum also graces the landscape of Cubbon Park. With over 2.5 lac books, the Seshadri Iyer Memorial Library is also one of the buildings standing in the park. Maintained by the Department of Horticulture, it was named after the longest-serving commissioner of Mysore, Sir Mark Cubbon. 

Awarded as one of the best zoo in the world by the British Government, the Darjeeling Zoo, officially known as the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is truly heaven on earth. Perched at the height of 7,000 feet, it is home to some exotic and endangered species on the planet. Over 200 species of plants and animals are a part of this place. Snow leopards, Red pandas and Himalayan wolfs are most popular attractions of the zoo.

Awarded as one of the best zoo in the world by the British Government, the Darjeeling Zoo, officially known as the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is truly heaven on earth. Perched at the height of 7,000 feet, it is home to some exotic and endangered species on the planet. Snow leopards, Red pandas and Himalayan wolfs are most popular attractions of the zoo.

One of the most romantic sights in all of Manali, Jogini Waterfalls is a treat to the eyes of a traveler. Located near the Rohtang Valley, the waterfalls can be accessed through an adventurous trek from the popular Vashisht Temple. Small streams and rivulets lead you to the quaint banks of River Beas, Jogini is the perfect spot for photographers to capture the beautiful glimpses of nature's gift. Standing at the height of 160 feet, the waterfalls offers breathtaking views and an ideal spot for sipping a hot cup of tea.

One of the highest points surrounding the city of Shimla, Kufri is a popular hill station standing at the height of 8923 feet. Offering stunning landscape all around, Kufri is the twin of Shimla with far lesser tourists swarming around the place. Its snow-clad routes provide favorable conditions to practice skiing activities. It majorly attracts tourists due to the presence of Kufri Zoological Park which hosts animals ranging from antelopes, bears, yaks and the state bird species of the Himalayan Mongol. Trekking is a popular activity to reach its peak which is also called as Mashru peak.

Tiger Hill Darjeeling, standing tall at a height of 2,567 meters is one of the highest points in Darjeeling. Tiger Hill is one of the most prominent summits of Ghoom. This is the hill is located in the state of West Bengal in Darjeeling town. Recognized under the UNESCO world heritage site located in the highest railway station in the Darjeeling Himalayan railway station.

When you visit Darjeeling visiting tiger hill is under must-visit places. A mesmerizing view of the snow-capped highest peak of Mount Everest is just visible. One should explore its famous sunrise view of Tiger hill the beauty.

Tiger hill is also famous for its Himalayan mountaineering activities. the place will give you a magnificent panoramic view of the peaks of Mount Kanchenjunga also. If compared to the view of Mt. Everest than Mt. Kanchanjanga would be looking bigger because of the curvature of the earth and close proximity to this hill.

A popular tourist attraction is a perfect spot to enjoy views of Teesta, Mahananda and Mechi Rivers. Illuminated views of the mountain range are the best moments offered at Tiger Hill.

Standing at a height of 2,567 meters, Tiger Hill is one of the most prominent summits of Ghoom the highest railway. This place will give you a magnificent panoramic view of the peaks of Mount Everest and Mount Kangchenjunga. The famous Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary is pretty close by.

The reader should take note the name "Tiger Hill" is common for peaks in different hills stations in India and not unique to Darjeeling. The sunrises and slowly the peals on the mountains are illuminated.

A one-of-a-kind transport, the Darjeeling Himalayan Ride also known as Toy train, are a series of mountain railway networks which runs through Darjeeling. The coal-induced engines which look like toy trains, take tourists and locals alike around the region. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it runs through hilly loops and zigzags at an elevation of over 2000 feet.

The best-kept secret in the North Indian region, Tirthan Valley is an off-beat destination located on the banks of the Tirthan river in Bir, Himachal Pradesh. Home to snowclad mountains and scenic natural landscape, this town is a must-see riverside retreat. Full of tourists all around the year, Tirthan valley houses various lakes, old homes, breathtaking waterfalls, ancient traditions and much more. It is also the most sought after spots for adventure-centric activities including trekking, fishing, wildlife safari, village tours as the list in endless. Peaceful and naturally abundant, this place is for everyone willing to explore relentlessly.

One of the World's most popular paragliding destinations brings to you a spectacular experience. Practice paragliding through the lush meadows of Bir, Himachal Pradesh. Fly at an altitude of 2400 meters and enjoy a once in a lifetime moment. Take off from the heights of Billing and land in the Tibetan village of Chowgan near Bir. Skilled instructors take novice gliders along for this thrilling experience whereas frequent flyers may go solo.

The highest point in Shimla is the peak of the enormous Jakhoo Hill. 8,054 feet above sea level, it is a major tourist spot hidden beneath the cover of deodar forests. It can be accessed by foot or the aerial ropeway starting from the Ridge. Its most significant and popular attraction is the Jakhoo Temple which is dedicated to the Hindu Monkey God, Lord Hanuman. It is believed that Lord Hanuman rested at the very place where the temple is built while on his quest to retrieve sanjeevani herb. A 108 feet high Hanuman statue is the center of attraction and draws thousands of admirers every year. The statue surpasses the height of Christ the Redeemer of Rio de Janerio which stands at a height of 98 feet. A sight of religious significance for the Hindu devotees, it is a must-see place to visit.

One of the five sacred lakes in the country, the Pampa Sarovar is a beautiful lake located in the village of Anegundi near Hospet. A sacred place of worship for the Hindus, the lake offers scenic views of surrounding hills and a full of blooming lotuses all year around. Mentioned in the texts of Bhagavad Geeta and Ramayana, the lake is named after Pampa, the incarnation of Parvati, consort of Hindu Lord Shiva. The place attractions many tourists and is known for its various legends regarding the lake. According to a popular tale, Lord Rama on his way towards south bathed in this very lake and met one of her pious devotees named Shabari. Shabari is said to have guided Lord Rama and Lakshmana to seek the help of Lord Hanuman and Sugriva in the monkey kingdom of Kishkinda.