India is known to be the origin of some of the world’s major cultures and religions. The unparalleled cultural exuberance of the many world heritage sites in India allure travelers from across the globe. The myriad shades of traditions and rituals have been contributing to the Indian culture. And these are the top 4 destinations for the best weekend getaway in North India which speak volumes about the same.
1. Amritsar
Amritsar is synonymous with the Golden Temple, the most revered shrine of the Sikhs. However, this holy place is visited by people of different religious backgrounds. The term Amritsar is derived from two words; 'Amrit' meaning nectar of immortality and 'Sarovar' meaning pool. Amritsar has several Sikh pilgrimages.
Amritsar is the administrative headquarters of the Amritsar district of the state of Punjab. Amritsar holds sheer religious importance for the Hindus also as it is believed that it was the place where Goddess Sita, the consort of Lord Rama, gave birth to twins Lava and Kusha. Along with this, there are beautiful handicrafts are available in Amritsar such as colorful dress material, rugs, woolen blankets, and sweaters which is perfect before the perfect dinner at one of the nearby century-old restaurants that serve the best food!
Amritsar’s many attractions include the Golden Temple, Goindwal Sahib Gurudwara, Durgiana Mandir, Mata Temple, and Jama Masjid Kherudin.
2. Agra
Welcome to the home of some of the world-famous monuments that are an epitome of skilled craftsmanship and timeless beauty, including the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. Agra is considered one of the most remarkable cities in the world because of the rich Mughal architectures. Agra was the capital of India during the Mughal rule (in the 16th and 17th centuries) and it still seems to be associated with the memorable Mughal period.
Agra is a shopper's delight too. Market areas like the Taj Complex, Kinari Bazaar, Sanjay Palace, and Munro Road, are quite famous for the miniature of the Taj Mahal (replica of the Taj), leather bags, chappals and leather shoes, carpets, gold thread embroidery, etc. Besides, Petha (a sweetmeat) is the specialty of Agra which can be taken from any corner of the city.
One of the most popular and most beautiful monuments in the world, the Taj Mahal is famous for its marvelous white marble beauty. Because of its spellbinding beauty and architectural characteristics, the Taj Mahal is declared as one of the seven wonders of the world. The monument was built by Shahjahan in the memory of his beloved consort Mumtaz Mahal.
Other major attractions of Agra are Agra Fort, Jahan Gir Mahal, Itmad-Ud-Daulah, Sikandra Fort, and Radha Swami Samadhi.
3. Jaipur
Surrounded by rugged hills from three sides, Jaipur is popularly known as the Pink City. This historical city was founded by the great king Sawai Jai Singh of the Kachhawaha clan in 1727 AD. The word 'Jaipur' literally means 'the city of victory' in Hindi.
Jaipur exhibits vibrant colours in its every element including forts, havelis bazaars, music, and dance etc. The true culture of Jaipur can be felt during the occasions like Banganga Fair, Sheetla Mata Fair, Teej Festival, Gangaur Festival, Elephant Festival, and Kite Festival.
Not only a sightseeing pleasure, Jaipur is also a shopper's paradise. One can visit places like Rajasthali, Johari Bazaar, MI road, Nehru Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar, etc. to buy various traditional items. Jaipur is famous for Jewellery, Gems and semi-precious stones, Kundan work (setting precious stones in gold), Minakri work (enamel work on gold), Hand block printed textiles, Tie-dye fabrics, Miniature paintings, Kota doria saris, Enamelware, Brassware, Woolen carpets, Cotton rugs and, Leather footwear and embroidered Jutis in Jaipur.
Jaipur’s main attractions are City Palace & Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum, Hawa Mahal, Jaigarh Fort and Amber Fort.
4. Lucknow
Dipped in the age-old Indo-Persian culture, Lucknow is popular as the pride of Avadh. Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, came into limelight with the fourth Nawab of Avadh, Asaf-ud-Daula, in 1775. Situated on the banks of historical river Gomti, the city always ruled as one of the most important centers of Muslim cultural influence in South Asia along with Delhi, Lahore, and Hyderabad. This is why it is also known as the city of Nawabs.
Lucknow is synonymous with huge, ancient, and spectacular Imambaras, representing the Shia faith' of the Muslims. Lucknow is the place where Urdu literature and Kathak dance attained ultimate refinement. Along with this, the city of Nawabs is also called the 'land of art and craft'. The expertise in art and craft is revealed in the exquisite embroidery and spectacular forms of printing. 'Chowk' in Old Lucknow and other market areas are known for chikan and zardozi work, hand block and batik printing, cotton fabrics embellished with floral, geometric, and ornamental motifs etc. In addition, when it comes to cuisine, Lucknow is listed on the top for a wide variety of vegetarian/non-vegetarian kebabs, biryani (rice preparation), and rich vegetarian food.
Lucknow’s many attractions include Bara Imambara, Chhota Imambara, Jama Masjid, Shah Najaf Imambara, Rumi Darwaza, and the Clock Tower.
While these four cities form the culture of our rich country, this is not all that India has to offer. Yet again, India always leaves everyone shocked. However, these four would make for for the perfect Weekend Getaways in India!