India beyond its States: Union Territories Travel Tales
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Union Territories, as most of us know, are administrative units governed by the central government. While the Andamans and Puducherry are widely known for their exciting travel offerings, the rest of the places are not too advertised on the travel media. These smaller cities offer unique cultural and culinary experience that is quite different from the mainstream “Indian culture”. If you love soaking in unique cityscapes and explore lesser traveled, these Union Territories Travel ideas may prove to be worth your while:
Chandigarh
Popularly known as the first planned city of India, a French architect and urban planner named Le Corbusier designed the city. Nek Chand Rock Garden is the most famous tourist spot followed by Sukhna Lake and Capital complex.
Chandigarh derives its name from the temple of “Chandi Mandir“, deity ‘Chandi’ (the goddess of power) and a fort of ‘garh’. Other major tourist attractions are Government Museum and Art Gallery, Mohali cricket stadium, Rose Garden and Japanese garden.
Best time to visit Chandigarh is autumn, mid-August to November, since the weather is most pleasant at that time. The hot summer, tropical monsoon and cold dry winter are not too favorable for travel and are best avoided.
Daman & Diu
Tourism at Daman & Diu is gaining popularity. These are serene sea locations near Gujrat. Daman is a part of the Gulf of Cambay (Khambhat) while Diu is an island joined with mainland Gujrat by a creek. Both the places offer virgin beaches, magnificent Portuguese forts, churches, and lighthouses.
Daman and Diu are gradually gaining popularity as an alternative to Goa. (Read about: 10 delicious Goan Food that will make you want to go Goa, now!) These places can be visited throughout the year, however, October-March is the peak season. One can expect to have both Gujarati and Portuguese food in these places.
Lakshadweep
A great alternative to the much-traveled Andamans, Lakshadweep has a lot to offer to travelers. Lakshadweep means ‘a hundred thousand islands’ in Malayalam, the local language. It is the smallest Union Territory of India and there are only 36 islands having a total area of 32 sq km.
Agatti, Minicoy, Kavaratti, and Kalpeni islands are the popular choice amongst tourists. The place offers beautiful coral reefs and is a diver’s delight. Although it can be visited all year round, winter is the best time to visit.
Puducherry (Pondicherry)
This erstwhile French colony offers beautiful French architecture, beaches and it’s signature sightseeing place, Auroville. The French influence is evident in the streets of Pondicherry, that are lined with beautiful French buildings. It is a treat to walk the streets of the town, reliving a bygone era.
The place is merely a 3-hrs drive from Chennai, which makes it an easy travel option. Pondicherry is known for treating the foodies well, it has a wide variety of cuisines mainly involving seafood.
Do remember to visit the Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville, and collect some souvenirs
Dadra and Nagar Haveli
Perhaps the least known Union Territory, between the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat, Dadra & Nagar Haveli is still a tourism virgin. Silvassa, the capital city of DNH is well connected via rail and road from all sides, and Mumbai airport is just a 4-hours drive.
One can visit the Roman Catholic church, Tribal Museum, Vanganga Lake and Khanvel, a lush green hill with terrace gardens.
Andaman & Nicobar islands
Last but not the least, the Andamans are perhaps the most popular travel destination among the Union Territories. Serene beaches, colorful coral reefs, and crystal clear waters make this place a traveler’s delight.
One can try several water-sports like scuba-diving, under sea-walk, snorkeling; visit the beautiful islands or immerse into the history of the Cellular jail and Ross islands. Easily accessible by air, Port Blair is the capital city. You can visit this place anytime around, however, winters are more suited for the outdoor activities that the place has to offer. If you want to read about our travel story to the Andamans, read it here.
Want to add more details? Comment or write to us at editor@blankslatechronicles.com.
Please note that Delhi was not included in the list as it is considered as National Capital Territory and not a Union Territory.
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