Tourism

Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria

Germany is the ninth most visited country in the world as of 2017, with 37.4 million visits. Berlin has become the third most visited city destination in Europe. Domestic and international travel and tourism combined directly contribute over €105.3 billion to German GDP. Including indirect and induced impacts, the industry supports 4.2 million jobs.

Germany's most visited and popular landmarks include Cologne Cathedral, the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, the Dresden Frauenkirche, Neuschwanstein Castle, Heidelberg Castle, the Wartburg, and Sanssouci Palace. The Europa-Park near Freiburg is Europe's second most popular theme park resort.

Cuisine

Bavarian Bratwurst with mustard, a pretzel and beer

German cuisine varies from region to region and often neighbouring regions share some culinary similarities (e.g. the southern regions of Bavaria and Swabia share some traditions with Switzerland and Austria). International varieties such as pizza, sushi, Chinese food, Greek food, Indian cuisine and doner kebab are also popular.

Bread is a significant part of German cuisine and German bakeries produce about 600 main types of bread and 1,200 types of pastries and rolls (Brötchen). German cheeses account for about 22% of all cheese produced in Europe. In 2012 over 99% of all meat produced in Germany was either pork, chicken or beef. Germans produce their ubiquitous sausages in almost 1,500 varieties, including Bratwursts and Weisswursts. Although wine is becoming more popular in many parts of Germany, especially close to German wine regions,the national alcoholic drink is beer. German beer consumption per person stands at 110 litres (24 imp gal; 29 US gal) in 2013 and remains among the highest in the world. German beer purity regulations date back to the 16th century.

The 2018 Michelin Guide awarded eleven restaurants in Germany three stars, giving the country a cumulative total of 300 stars

Climate

Most of Germany has a temperate climate, ranging from oceanic in the north to continental in the east and southeast. Winters range from the cold in the Southern Alps to mild and are generally overcast with limited precipitation, while summers can vary from hot and dry to cool and rainy. The northern regions have prevailing westerly winds that bring in moist air from the North Sea, moderating the temperature and increasing precipitation. Conversely, the southeast regions have more extreme temperatures.

From February 2019 – 2020, average monthly temperatures in Germany ranged from a low of 3.3 °C (37.9 °F) in January 2020 to a high of 19.8 °C (67.6 °F) in June 2019. Average monthly precipitation ranged from 30 litres per square metre in February and April 2019 to 125 litres per square metre in February 2020. Average monthly hours of sunshine ranged from 45 in November 2019 to 300 in June 2019. The highest temperature ever recorded in Germany was 42.6 °C on 25 July 2019 in and the lowest was −37.8 °C on 12 February 1929 in Wolnzach.

Top Most Places To Visit In Singapore

Visit The Universal Studios

Universal Studios Singapore, as it is officially called, is one of the only such amusement parks in South East Asia. Designed by the famed Hollywood production house, this park is sure to set every movie buff’s heart racing with its assortment of 20 themed attractions. These are just any attractions of course, rather they are the lore of some of Universal’s biggest blockbusters. Step in and you will get to hang with the auto bots from Transformers, the bunch of four goofy friends from Madagascar, or walk about the ruins of The Lost World, and also interact with Shrek.

That’s not all, there are five roller coaster rides and two water rides within the park, which will surely give you a jolt of adrenaline. All this and plenty more fun and entertainment avenues included makes this the perfect destination for some pleasurable family time.

Marina Bay

The Marina Bay area stands as a testament to all the growth Singapore has seen over the last few decades. From start to finish, the entire complex took over $5.5 billion to develop and the end result will leave you breathless. Brightly lit buildings, perfectly illuminated waterfront, casino, various high-end shopping and dining options add to the allure of this place. In case you are planning to visit, make sure to get here around 08:00 PM local time to witness a spectacular light show, where all the structures in and around the bay will be lit up.

Take a ride on the Singapore Flyer

Constructed in 2008, the Singapore Flyer is the second tallest Ferris Wheel in the world with a height of 165 meters. If you are in Singapore and if a little altitude doesn’t scare you, step into the giant Ferris wheel and look at the tiny nation in all its glory. The operators, in fact, have dubbed it the Observation Wheel for all the glorious views that if offers over the course of a day in various lighting conditions.

Shop and eat at Chinatown

The Chinatown locality is one of the most iconic locations in Singapore. You can get your hands on some authentic Chinese food, buy souvenir (many claim they are the cheapest you can find). If you’re looking for a culture and history lesson, head over to the Chinatown Heritage Centre to get a glimpse of the everyday lifestyle of Chinese immigrants and how they have acclimated to their Singaporean surrounding.

Take a trip to the Underwater World

The Underwater World is a popular option among all tourists that enter the Singaporean shores. Here, you can see marine life from a breathtakingly new point of view through the 83m tunnel enclosed in Plexiglas. You can watch some exotic species like stingrays, sharks, dolphins among others hover above your head just a few feet away. Also, an added incentive to visit here is that you get to watch the dolphins dance to the music.

Get set to race at the Marina Bay F1 circuit

The Formula One circuit at the Marina Bay is one of the best racing tracks in the world, which blends inch-perfect engineering and unusually thrilling experience into one. In the off season, you can find plenty of racing tracks where you can suit up and hit the tarmac on the rev-happy F1 supercars. You can find a variety of packages, starting from a 15-minute ride to a 1-hour one and experience what it feels like to be a race car driver. Make sure to give it a try if you budget allows you.

Although on the expensive side, the city-state of Singapore offers a multitude of experiences that can make your next trip a truly exciting spectacle.

Tourist Places in India

Here are the top most commonly visited tourist destinations in India:

Agra
Amritsar
Nainital
Ooty
Jaipur
Goa
Bangalore
Shimla
Mysore
Srinagar
Manali
Dalhousie
Dharamshala
McLeod Ganj
Kangra
Baijnath
Chamunda Devi Temple
Jwala Devi Temple
Baglamukhi Temple
Palampur
Pong Dam
Ladakh
Lahaul Spiti

Agra

Agra is a historically important tourist place in India and is a center for several architectural miracles from the Mughal eon. The city attracts domestic and overseas travelers and the number of travelers to this destination has been growing day-by-day. Every tourist point of the city has its own significance and story. The most popular tourist destinations of the city include Taj Mahal, Mehtab Bagh, Kinnari Bazar, Taj Nature Walk, Wildlife SOS, Korai Village, Tomb of Itimad-ul-Daulh and Agra Fort. Consider this place if you are heading towards the north.

Amritsar

Amritsar, a prime city in the Indian state of Punjab, depicts the gallant charm of the state. The city commences a day with mystical devotions from the religion of Sikh. Amritsar, originated by Guru Ram Das, has been the divine capital for the community of Sikh. Golden temple, also called Harmandir Sahib Gurudwara, is the most attractive tourist point. Mata Temple and Akal Takhat are other temples you should never miss to visit during a trip to this beautiful city. Amritsar is also one of the top 25 places to visit in the country.

Nainital

Nainital is a famous hill station in India because of its remarkable view and the pleasing atmosphere. It is undoubtedly a most preferred holiday destination for the lovers of nature. The city lets you experience the real beauty of nature. It is also denoted as the Queen of Lakes. The most significant tourist points of the city include Kaladhungi, Naukuchiatal, Haldwani, Ramgarh, Ramnagar, Naukuchiatal and Mukteshwar. Govind Ballabh Pant Marg is the place where you can buy anything you want.

Ooty

Ooty is a south Indian popular hill station. It is also regarded as the Queen of the Hills. The Nilgiris is one of the prime lures of this hill station. Other famous destinations of Ooty to include Botanical Gardens, Tea Factory, Doddabetta Peak, Hyderabadi Biryani House, Avalanche Lake, Government Rose Gardens, Pykara River, Ooty Lake, Madumali National Park, Toda Huts, Ooty Mountain Railway and Toda Huts. With these beautiful spots, Ooty is one of the best 25 places to visit in India.

Jaipur

Jaipur, the Pink City of India, is visited by thousands of domestic and international travelers with its unmatched exquisiteness and royal history. In India, Jaipur is the first planned city and is renowned internationally due to its stained jewels. The attractions points of the city consist of Amber Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, Naharghat Fort, Albert Hall Museum, Jaigarh Fort, Jal Mahal, Gaitore, Vidyadhar Garden, Central Park, Govind Devji Temple, Galtaji and Digamber Jain Mandir. The Pink City is on the list of the best tourist places with these attractive destinations.

Goa

Goa is the smallest state and is one of the most beautiful places in India. Surrounded by beautiful beaches and churches, Goa is the most preferred tourist destination in the country. Thousands of national and international travelers take a trip to this destination every day. You need at least 2-3 days to experience the true beauty of the state. It is also a favorite tourist destination for Indian celebrities who visit this place especially during Christmas and New Year Holidays.

Bangalore

Bangalore is the capital city of Karnataka and is also regarded as the Garden City. The city offers historically important tourist destinations and attracts lakhs of travelers every year. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best tourist places in India with several remarkable tourist spots, including Shiva Temple, Iskcon Temple, Cubbon Park, Vidhana Soudha and many more. Bangalore is a premier business center of India with thousands of multinational companies. The city has a greater connectivity to all major cities of the country.

Shimla

Like Ooty and Nainital, Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the most visited Indian hill stations. The word Shimla derived from Goddess Shyamala. The city of Shimla established by British rulers and is fenced by deodar, pine and oak forests. The destination offers advanced amenities and greater connectivity and can be visited anytime. The tourist points include Arki Fort, Cultural Complex, Himachal State Museum and Gaiety Heritage. The temples to visit include Hanuman Temple, Jakhu Temple and Hadimba Temple.

Mysore

Mysore is the second biggest city in Karnataka after Bangalore. The city falls on the list of the top 25 tourist places in India with several attractions, including Chamundeshwari Temple, Mysore Zoo and Mysore Palace. Mysore is a historically significant place that attracts thousands of travelers each day. The city is globally renowned for celebrating the festival of Dussehra with a regal touch. If you are touring towards the north, consider this city to visit.

Srinagar

Travelers around the world are recommended to visit this astonishing Indian destination between April and October every year. It is visited especially by the youth. The destination can be visited by air, road and rail. Places to visit in Srinagar include Mughal Gardens, Dal Lake, Nagin Lake, Cricket Bat Factories, Wular Lake and Hazratbal Mosque. The city of Srinagar, cited on the banks of the river of Jhelum, provides tranquility and pleasure to its tourists.

MANALI

Himachal Pradesh covers the north front of the country, offering the tourists with some of the most wonderful hill stations in the world and Manali is undoubtedly one of the most visited one. The main credit goes to its snow covered peaks, alluring ambience, gorgeous valleys and lush greenery. It is a charming slope station located at the reservoir of the River Beas. The tourist from all parts of the world, look for best tour packages for Manali, every year, as it is the most appreciated getaway in India.

While this place is a blessing for adventure seekers because of the tall mountains and hills that coax activities like skiing, paragliding, climbing, biking and trekking, at the same time, the town also attracts the sloppy travelers to book Manali tour packages and enjoy the calmness and positive vibes of the place. Located on the way to popular destinations such as Ladakh and Spiti, it is a famous stopover which is included in most of the North India tour packages.

Dalhousie

The tiny tinsel town of Dalhousie is a paradise tucked away in the lap of Himachal Pradesh. It boasts of old-world charm, mesmerizing natural landscapes, pine-clad valleys, flower-bedecked meadows, fast-flowing rivers and magnificent misty mountains. This hill station was one of the favorite summer destinations of the Britishers during the Indian colonial era. The Scottish and Victorian architecture reminds you of its colonial heritage while the wispy air continues to hone British aromas.

Situated far from the buzzing cities in the country, this quaint town transports you to a pollution-free environment in the lap of nature. Dalhousie has a number mountains and river streams that tourists must visit. Among them, the most famous are Panch Pulla, Satdhara Falls and the Daikund peak.

Dharamshala

Dharamshala or Dharamshala city is located in Kangra district at a distance of 18 km from Kangra city. Dharamshala is separated as upper and lower divisions with different altitudes. The lower division is the Dharamshala town itself. whereas, the upper-division is located 3km away and popularly known as McLeod Ganj. Dharamshala is prominently visited for the bus connections and the bustling market.

Dharamshala is the home to Dalai Lama, the Buddhist leader who runs his government in exile from Dharamshala. Now, what better place on earth than this little town set on the foothills of Dhauladhar ranges to experience the rich and regal Tibetan culture. In the year 1959, Dalai Lama came to India with his followers and settled, rather beautified the town of Dharamshala, transforming it into the little Lhasa. Dharamshala, for many years, has been a center of meditation and peace, with thousands of people from around the world coming here to seek Nirvana.

McLeod Ganj

McLeod Ganj is a hill station near Dharamshala, popular among trekkers. Located in Kangra district, McLeod Ganj's culture is a beautiful blend of Tibetan with some British influence.

Also known as Little Lhasa and famous around the world for being home to the Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama, McLeod Ganj is a beautiful town situated near upper Dharamshala. Nestled amidst majestic hills and lush greenery, this town is culturally blessed by a prominent Tibetan influence owing to the major settlement of Tibetans here. McLeod Ganj has one of the most mesmerizing landscapes in the entire state of Himachal Pradesh and attracts a lot of tourists throughout the year. The towns of Dharamshala, McLeod Ganj, Bhagsu Nag and Kangra are situated very close to each other and tourists must cover all these destinations while travelling here. Few of the most eminent and religiously significant monasteries in India are located here, including the Namgyal Monastery and Tsuglagkhang, where the spiritual leader Dalai Lama resides. Tourists must also visit the scenic Dal Lake and Triund, which are apt for quiet picnics.

Kangra

Kangra is a district in Himachal Pradesh with Dharamshala as the administrative headquarters. With might Beas River flowing through the Valley, Kangra is also known for the backdrop of Dhauladhar range, ancient temples and endless tea plantations. Repeated mention of the Valley in the holy Hindu texts, present Kangra as 'Devbhumi' or Land of the Gods.

Kangra is a district which encompasses Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj within its boundaries. The beautiful tea plantations are located in Palampur and areas around which lies 36 km away from Kangra city.

Jwala Devi temple, most famous of them all are known for its eternal flame, which is burning continuously for years without any known source of fuel. The temple has put the theories of science in question. Masroor cut rock temple, which is a rock temple from the monolithic age and has been mentioned in the holy book of Mahabharat.

Baijnath

Baijnath Temple is one of the most popular temples in Himachal Pradesh, and here, Lord Shiva is worshipped as the 'God of Healing'. Baijnath or Vaidya Nath is an avatar of the great Lord Shiva, and in this avatar, the great lord rids his devotees of all miseries and pain. As a result, this temple holds ultimate significance to all Lord Shiva devotees and is considered to be extremely sacred. In fact, the water of this temple is believed to be of medicinal value and has the potential to cure several illnesses and diseases. This draws thousands of devotees from all around the world every year.

Baijnath temple was built in 1204 A.D by two native merchants, Ahuka and Manyuka, who were doting devotees of Lord Shiva. Situated at a distance of only 16 kms from Palampur, this time-honored temple is a place where one can attain sterling peace and untainted tranquility in the gentle caress of god. It is one of the very few temples in India where both, Lord Shiva and Demon King Ravan are worshipped.

According to the ancient scriptures of Hindu tradition, Lord Shiva established 12 jyotirlingas, which were pillars that emanated pure light and unencumbered power, across the country as a challenge to Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma; and one of these 12 jyotirlingas rests inside the famous Baijnath Temple.

The ancient but magnificent temple is set in the backdrop of the Dhauladhar Himalayan Range. Imagine, an ancient rustic temple standing gloriously in front of vampire white mountains! The view of the peaks in the Himalayan Range covered in ghost grey mist as they pierce the sky is a feeling of both, marvel and satisfaction.

Chamunda Devi Temple

This hilltop temple of Chamunda Devi, one among the 51 Shakti Peethas is approximately 10 kilometers towards west Palampur, on the banks of river Baner. It is one of the most revered religious sites in Himachal. Chamundeshwari Devi is said to be one of the most powerful avatars of Goddess Durga. Navratri is a prominent festivity of the Chamunda Devi Temple. It attracts several devotees.

The temple has engravings from the scenes of Mahabharat and Ramayana. The temple is designed in traditional Himachali architecture and is bracketed within the serenity of nature. It is believed that the Chamunda Devi Temple came into being during the 1500s when goddess Chamunda appeared in the local priest's dream and urged the idol to be shifted to a specific spot which hosts the present-day temple.

Palampur

Palampur is rightly known as the Tea Capital of Northern India and is famous all across the country for its vast spreads of lush tea gardens, which are the chief attraction of the town. The tea gardens of Palampur are the perfect place to witness the vast tea gardens and the tea making process in great detail. Stepping into these lush green gardens makes you feel as if you have stepped into a dream world altogether, and the divine fragrance transforms you into heaven. This experience is heightened for tea lovers, for whom this place is like paradise on earth.

It was in the 19th century that the concept of tea gardens was introduced in this area, and since then the place has become quite famous for its specialty teas, especially for its Kangra Tea. This particular variety of tea is so renowned, and of such high quality, that 90% of it is exported out of the country. One can also visit the Palampur Co-operative Tea Factory Limited, which is located downhill from Palampur and is the place to be at if you want to see the complete process of plucking, picking and processing of tea, as well as the commercial production of tea. Travelers and visitors love to take photographs of the tea gardens and the women picking tea leaves, and it is equally interesting to interact with the workers at the tea state. A visit to the tea gardens of Palampur is thus a must while in Himachal Pradesh, to experience a fun and informative day with your loved ones.

Jwala Devi Temple

Located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, Jwala Devi Temple is dedicated to Jwala Ji - a Hindu Goddess depicted by a set of eternal flames. One of the 52 Shakti Peethas in India, it is believed that the tongue of Goddess Sati fell where the Jwala Devi Temple is now situated. A novel temple which does not have an idol, the five aartis conducted at Jwala Devi Temple are the main attraction.

It is believed that the Goddess resides in the holy flames of the temple, which miraculously burn day and night without any fuel from outside. The flames represent the nine forms of Goddess Durga - Mahakali, Annapurna, Chandi, Hinglaj, Vindhya Vasini, Mahalakshmi, Saraswati, Ambika and Anji Devi. Usually, an offering of Rabri is served to the Goddess.

Located 1 km from the temple is Jwalamukhi Cave. Earlier having three openings, the cave now has a single opening and is filled with the water of a spring.

Baglamukhi Temple

Located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, snuggled in a spot amidst the mighty Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas, sits the holy Baglamukhi temple. The shrine is dedicated to one of the ten Mahavidyas of the Supreme Goddess as per Shaktism. Devotees visit the temple with hopes of getting their wishes fulfilled, cases won, exams passed or life otherwise to be happy and successful. It is said that anything asked for after performing homagni and yajna at the temple is granted.

The name Baglamukhi comes from two separate Sanskrit words, 'Bagla' meaning 'bride' and 'mukhi' meaning 'face'. In essence, it translates to the deity having captivating and hypnotizing powers in her face or herself which fights the evil away. It is said that yellow is the favorite color of the goddess which is why the Baglamukhi Temple has been painted yellow in color. All the worshippers of the Goddess wear yellow colored clothes, and yellow sweets are offered to the deity. Many festivals are celebrated at Maa Baglamukhi Temple including Navratri, Guru Purnima, Vasant Panchami, and other special pujas and aartis.

Pong Dam

Built on the Beas River in Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh, Pong Dam is an earth fill reservoir constructed for generating hydroelectricity and for irrigation purposes. Constructed in 1975, the dam is based on the foothills of the Shavlik's and is a place of surreal beauty and bounteous natural environment. Also known as the Beas Dam, the region boasts of rich wildlife and is a breeding ground of commercially viable fish. The reservoir behind the dam, also known as Maharana Pratap Sagar is home to a large number of birds and hence, has been converted into a Bird Sanctuary. In addition to this, the surrounding dense forest cover is a natural habitat for several flora and fauna species which adds to the natural beauty of the place. The region has been declared as one of the 27 international wetland sites by Ramsar Conventions owing to its rich wildlife and vegetation cover.

The Pong Reservoir, known as Maharana Pratap Sagar, formed by the accumulated water of the dam, was declared as a bird sanctuary in 1983 due to its waterfowl diversity. It is home to several species of avifauna some of which include Bareheaded Geese, Red-neck Grebe, northern lapwing, common teal, spot-billed duck, Eurasian coot, black stork, egrets etc. Sprawling over an area of over 240kms., the lake is also an important fish reservoir that acts as a fish breeding ground for commercial purposes. Besides the regular bird watchers, the place is also frequented by photographers and nature lovers.

Ladakh

Lahaul Spiti

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Most Popular Travel Destinations