Top 20 Tourist Attractions | KOLKATA 

CITY OF JOY

Kolkata , formerly known as Calcutta or Calicut (2001) , is the capital of West Bengal. A prominent financial, commercial and cultural centre in the north east, it is located on the eastern bank of Hooghly River. It is the seventh most populous city in India according to the 2011 census. Home to India's one of the oldest riverine ports in India, Kolkata is one of the most attracted tourist attractions..

1.) Victoria Memorial

2.) Fort William

3.) Howrah Bridge 

4.) Birla Planetarium 

5.) Marble Place Mansion

6.) Science City, Kolkata

7.) St. Paul Cathedral Kolkata

8.) Belur Math

9.) Dakshineswar Kali Temple

10.) Eden Gardens 

11.) Kalighat

12.) Park Street

13.) Shantiniketan

14.) Indian Museum 

15.) Mother House

16.) Quest Mall

17.) Nicco Park

18.) Sundarbans

19.) Tagore's House 

20.) Rabindra Sarovar

TOP 20 TOURIST ATTRACTIONS | CHENNAI

 CHENNAI | Top 20 Tourist Attractions 

Chennai, formerly known as Madras, is the capital of the Indian State of Tamil Nadu. It is located on the Coromandel Coast of Bay of Bengal, it is the sixth most populous Indian city and constitutes one of the biggest cultural, financial centers of India. Popularly known as the Gateway of South India, it is also the Health Capital of India. Added to the UCCN ( UNESCO Creative Cities Network ) in October 2017, it is one of those 100 smart cities developed under the Smart Cities Mission.

A popular tourist attraction, it is a must visit place on your tour to India.

1.) Marina Beach

It is the longest natural urban Beach in India, extending for unto 6km from Fort St. George to Foreshore Estate in the south. Located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu along the Bay of Bengal, it is sandy unlike the Juju Beach of Mumbai. A crowded and a popular beach in the area, around 30000 visitors visit the beach on weekdays, while 50000 on holidays and weekends.The number itself gives an idea of its popularity. A number of to do activities take place here from enjoying the handicrafts and selling jewellery to morning walks and enjoying the sunset.

2.) Fort St. George 

Founded in 1639, it is the first British fortress built in India and today is the seat of the Tamil Nadu government . Located  on the Rajaji Salad Road, Fort St. George is a prominent landmark in Chennai and houses the famous St. Mary Church and Lord Wellesley House. Excellent example of the Indian History, it is a must visit tourist attraction.

3.) Guindy National Park

Spread around 1.04 sq miles of land, it is a protected area in Tamil Nadu and comprises the 8the smallest national parks in India. Governed and maintained under the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, the national park is a home to numerous species of flora and fauna. A hime to around 400 blackbucks 2000 spotted deers , jackals, snakes tortoises, geckos etc. It is quite rich in wildlife. Around 700000 visitors visit the park in a year. 

4.)Ashtalakshmi Temple 

Located on the shoreline s near the Elliot Beach, it is a popular Hindu Temple dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and her eight forms giver of wealth - offspring, success, prosperity,  wealth, courage, knowledge, bravery and food. 
The sound of the Ocean waves usually echo in the complex generating a peaceful environment. People worship the Goddess with pure soul and receive blessings. 

5.) Government Museum 

Located in Egmore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, it is also known as the Madras Museum. A museum of human history and culture, it attracts tourists throughout the year. The second oldest museum in India after Indian Museum, Kolkata it was established in 1851. The complex comprises of 6 buildings and 46 galleries. Spread over an area of 16.25acres, it is popular and a must visit tourist attraction.

6.) Mylapore, Chennai

It constitutes one of the oldest residential parts of Chennai. A neighbourhood located in the central part it is supposed to be the birth place of Indian poet and Philosopher Valluvar. Famous for its tree lined avenues and the Kapaleeswar Temple, ot is located few kms south of Chennai. Known for its delicious South Indian Food, it is a prominent site of cultural importance and a must visit..

7.)Valluvar Kottam

A famous monument established in the Indian City of Chennai, Tamil Lady, it comprises the biggest Tamil Cultural Centre. Dedicated to the Tamil Poet and Philosopher Valluvar, it's construction was completed in the year 1976. A popular tourist attraction, it is designed in the form of a temple and built on a land which was a garbage dumping ground at that time. About 700 visitors visit the temple during weekdays which itself showcases its popularity.

8.) Edward Elliot's Beach

Located in Besant Nagar, Chennai, it is one of the most visited and beautiful beaches in Chennai. named after the Chief Magistrate Edward Elliot, experiencing the sunrise and the sunset is a pleasant experience. A relaxing walk along the shoreline and the clean environment refreshes the mind. The long stretch of sand is peaceful. Popular tourist attractions here include the Ashtalakshmi Temple and the Velankanni Church.

9.) Santhome Cathedral Basilica 

Built in 1523 by the Portuguese, it is a Roman Catholic Basilica, rebuilt by the British in 1896. It constitutes one of the three churches in the world built over the temp of an apostle of Jesus Christ. Built in the neo- gothic architectural style characterized by coloured window panes and calm interior. The ocean shore nearby is an icing on the cake to the beauty of he church.

10.) Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Located in Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu Kapalesshwarar Temple is a Hindu temple devoted to Lord Shiva. An excellent example of the Dravidian Architecture, it holds great historical significance. Duringthe Tamil Month of Panguni, a tradition festival known as Brahmotsavam is celebrated with full zeal and enthusiasm. Palguni corresponds to mid march and April and a Mela - like atmosphere develops during this 9 day festival. A must visit place on your trip to Chennai.

11.) MGR Film City 

Named after the popular actor late CM MG Ramachandran it was built in 1994 in Taramani, Chennai with an aim to attract filmmakers and tourists to Chennai. 
Queen Elizabeth too visited the place on her arrival to India in 1997. The Mughal and The Japanese sets here are quite popular. 

12.)Arignar Anna Zoological Park

Also known as Vandalur Zoo, the zoological park is located in Vandalur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. 

13.) Akarai Beach

14.) VGP Snow Kingdom

15.)Express Avenue Mall

16.) Breezy Beach

17.)ISCKON Temple, Chennai

18.)VGP Golden Beach

19.) Madras War Cemetery

20.)Kolli Hills

Top 20 Tourist attractions Mumbai | Maharashtra

 Tourist Attractions | Mumbai

Mumbai, the financial capital of India and full of bollywood celebrities and Indian Cinema, is a MUST VISIT Place if you are on an Indian Tour. A home to 3 UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES, a deep natural harbour, it is also known as the city of seven islands. It is the second most populous city in India after Delhi and seventh most populous in the world. Endowed with a tropical climate, it is a hub of many business opportunities and therefore an attraction for many beginners. Centre of the metropolitan region it is one of the major tourist attractions in India. Top 20 tourist attraction you must VISIT ...

1.) Gateway of India, Mumbai

Built by the architect, George Written in the early 20the Century, it is popular tourist attraction in the Indian State of Maharashtra. A project initiated to commemorate the first visit of a British Monarch Emperor George V and Queen Mary to India, it's construction was completed around 1924. A prominent sightseeing, photographic destination, plenty of tourists visit here mainly between October and March. Pleasant climate, street foods, various vendors and the perfect see breeze are the major attractions. Not an opportunity to be left out at any cost...

2.)Elephanta Caves 

Located on the Elephanta Island in Mumbai Harbour, 2 kms from the Jawaharlal Nehru Port, it is a collection of the caves based prominently on The Hindu God, Shiva. A UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE, declared in 1987, they contain rock cut stone sculptures narrating stories of Hindu Mythology. Best time to visit is during the winter months of October to December. A popular cannon trekking site, and a fantastic place to visit. 

3.)Siddhivinayak Temple

One of the top richest temples in India Sri Siddhivinayak Temple is located at Prabhadevi in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Built by Laxman Vithu, Deubil Patil in 1801. Dedicated to Hindu God Lord Ganesha, the temple consists of a small mandap for Lord Ganesha. Wooden doors are carved with images of the Ashtvinayak. A very religious place and a popular tourist attraction. 

4.) ISKCON TEMPLE, MUMBAI

ISKCON Temple, Mumbai better known as Sri Radha Rasabihari Ji Temple is located in Juhu area. Spread over 4 acres of land and a famous site during festive occasions, thousands of tourists visit the temple every year. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, festivals like Janamashtami, Radhashtmi, Ram Navmi, Ratha Yatra, Gaura Purnima, Kartika Mass etc. are celebrated with full enthusiasm and zeal.

5.) Nehru Center, Mumbai

Nehru Centre, a foundation laid by Indira Gandhi and named after our former prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. It promotes the teachings of Chacha Nehru and regularly orgnaises scientific, cultural and educational programmes. Spread over 20000 sq feet of land, it also consists of a planetarium, art galleries, Library and research centre. Now it has become a cemtre for study of astronomy, meetinhs of renowned scientists and other research works.

6.)Chattrapati Shivaji Terminus

A historical train station, official known as Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, constitutes about 18 platforms and 40 tracks. Located in the Chattrapati Shivaji Terminus Area, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra, it is a recognised as a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. Owned by the Indian Railways and operated by the central  railway zone, it was designed by British architects, Frederick William Stevens and Axel Haig. Today, it is one of the most busiest railway stations in India and a great example of the Indian Heritage. 

7.) Juhu Beach 

Located on the shores of the Arabian Sea, Juhu Beach extends upto 6km till Versova. A popular tourist spot throughout the year, it is a crowded place and a beautiful destination which is why it acts as a venue for shooting for many bollywood films. The food court at the entrance is popular among the locals for the unique specialities of Mumbai including Panipuri, Sev puri and others. A great holiday destination, with a pleasant climate, the best time to visit Juju is around Sept to May. During the monsoon, the tide is high and therefore  a bit risky destination. A hime to many of the bollywood celebs, it is also known as ' Beverly Hills of Bollywood'. 

8.)  Kidzania

An indoor amusement park designed specially for kids of the age group 2-16,providing immense learning opportunities through different fun activities. Located in Ghatkopar, Mumbai, kidzania provides an interactive learning environment and is equipped with trained officials and extensive safety measures to provide as safe environment for the children. A must visit fr all the children. 

9.) Sanjay Gandhi National Park

It constitutes among one of the most visited parks in India. A protected area in Mumbai, it was built in 1996 with its headquarters at Boravali. More than 2 million visitors visit the park each year. A protected are for the flora and fauna, the Kanheri Caves that lie within the park is also a major tourist attraction. Spread over 87 km square of land the park is quite rich in all kinds of flora and fauna. 

See the list of wildlife below :

Flora : Kadamba, teak, shisha, acacia, euphorbia, zizipus etc. 

Fauna : Rhesus amacaques, Bonnet macaques, Chital, Indian Hare, porcupine,sambar deer, leopard

... 

And many more . Do visit once. 

10.) Haji Ali Dargah 

Located on the islet off the coast of Worli, it is a dargah or a mosque of Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari. An amazing portrayal of the Indo - Islamic Architecture, it is a major landmark in Mumbai. Constructed in 1431, a number of pilgrims visit the mosque on every Thursday and Friday. 

On fridays, various Sufi Musicians perform Qawwalis at the Dargah. 

11.) Powai Lake

Powai lake, an artificial lake located in the Powai valley in Mumbai. IIT BOMBAY, a premier educational institution is located towards the east of the lake while the National Institute of Industrial Engineering is also nearby. The lake is surrounded by Housing Complexes and Plush Hotels and over the years , the population in the powai area has increased.

12.) Marine Drive

A popular 3.6 km long road in Mumbai, Maharashtra, it is a 6 laned and C-Shaped constructed by Clownboi Famalam and Pallonji Mistry. Also known as the Queen's Necklace due to the shining street lights at night, it is a popular tourist attraction. To the north of this road lies the Girgaun Chowpattly, famous for its bhelpuri, the adjacent road links the Nariman point to Babulnath and Malabar Hill. It has been the site of the IAF Airshow 2004, the French Festival and the Mumbai Marathon ( takes place every year.) It provides a fantastic view of the Arabian Sea. 

13.) Essel world 

It is India's Largest amusement theme Park and one of the best places to visit in Mumbai. Located in Gorai, near Mumbai, it is a fun spot with lots of activities for the children. The Water Kingdom is just an icing on cake and it makes it the favourite destination among the locals during the summer months. The site has also been awarded the National Award of Excellence, Most Innovative Promotional Activity and others... A must visit during your trip to Mumbai. 

14.)Hanging Gardens 

Also known as the Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens, they are terraced gardens located at thr top of the Malabar Hill on the western side opp the Kamla Nehru Park. Popular for the amazing sunset views they provide, it has become a major tourist attraction in Mumbai in the recent years. A unique feature of the park is that if seen from the air, the walkway seems to be in the formation of PMG in Cursive symbolic the Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens. 

15.) Madh Island, Mumbai 

A group of several quaint fishing villages and farmlands located in Mumbai, Madh Island is bounded by Arabian Sea to the west, Malad Creek to the east. It includes some popular beaches Erangel  beach, Aksa Beach, Dana Pani Beach etc. Away from the busy city life, anyone who goes there will experience something unique. A home to many filmmakers and artists, it is all about sunset, seafood and the peaceful sea breeze. October to June is the optimum time to visit Madh Island.

16.)Mumbai Film City 

Situated near Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Goregaon East, Mumbai it is an integrated film studio. A venue for many Bollywood films it was built in 1977 by the state government to facilitate the development of the film industry. All kinds of shoots including courtroom, prison, waterfall, lake mountains etc. are there.. The plan of the filmcity was executed under V Shantaram. Nowadays, a guided tour to filmcity is allowed with a ticket including various packages depending on the duration of the tour. A tour to the filmcity will give you amazing experiences of witnessing live shoots. 

17.) Girgaon Chowpatty 

A public beach located song the Queen's Necklace or the Marine Drive, in the Girgaon Area of Mumbai . Accessible through the Charni Road Railway Station it serves as a popular site for Ganesh Visargan Celebrations with people coming from Mumbai as well As Pune. A great picnic spot for family outing , it is full of various activities including Ferry Rounds, Gun shoots, fortune tellers, vendors. In the morning too, people can be seen exercising, running, and engaged in other activities. A popular tourist destination one must visit on a trip to Mumbai. 

18.) Sri Mahalakshmi Temple 

A famous Hindu Temple located at Bhulabhai Desai Marg, Mahalakshmi West, Cumballa Hull, Mumbai. it is dedicated to Devi Mahalakshmi and was built in 1831 by Dhakji Dadaji, a Hindu merchant. The temple contains images of Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, Mahasaraswati. Navratri, a traditional festival is celebrated with full enthusiasm and zeal.

19.) Colaba Causeway 

Colaba Causeway, or better known as Shahid Bhagat Singh road is a commercial street in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It links the Colaba and the Old Women's Island. Located nearby The Taj Manage Palace and Tower and the Gateway of India. One of the most famous shopping centres. A variety of products can be bought here clothes, antiques, home decor, electronics etc.

20.) Kanheri Caves

Located in the forests of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Kanheri caves are a collection of rock cut caves. Consisting of various Buddhists sculptures, inscriptions and carvings, they are a major tourist attraction in Mumbai. The site is on hillside, with the old caves being less adorned in contrast to the Elephanta caves. About 51 legible inscriptions and 26 epigraphs are found at Kanheri. It is one worth visiting of the sites in Mumbai. Do visit once.