Dholpur, Rajasthan, India

Earlier called Dhawalpuri, Dholpur is believed to have taken its name from its 11th century ruler Dhawal Deo. Apart from being renowned for its beautiful landscape, the small princely state has also featured prominently in the annals of history. This is the place where two important wars of succession -- between Dara Shikoh and Aurangazeb, the sons of Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan, and between Azam and Muazzam, the sons of Aurangazeb -- were fought. Today, the town is developing into an attractive and peaceful tourist destination.

Place to see:

Muchchhkund - Name after a mythological ruler, Raja Muchchhkund, it is an ancient sacred site associated with Lord Krishna and a demon Kall Yaman. It is also an important pilgrimage point and it commands a picturesque view of the surrounding countryside. The surrounding enclosures are believed to have been built by Mughal Emperor Akbar.

Shergarh Fort - Built by Sher Shah Suri on the site of an earlier citadel, it stands south of the Dholpur tower. 

Laswari - The place where Daulat Rao Scindia was defeated by Lord Lake during the first freedom struggle of 1857.

Some other places of interest are the oldest Mughal Garden, built by Babur at Jhor, a waterfall at Damoh, and Kanapu Mahal.

Alappuzha (Alleppey), Kerala

Often called the 'Venice of the East' and situated on the Vembanad Lake, Alappuzha or Alleppey's commercial center lives in a maze of canals. Set in the labyrinth of backwater channels, the town is one of the best gateways to explore the unspoilt countryside. Though ferries operate regular services, a country boat is the best mode to experience the backwaters. The Nehru Boat Trophy race, most colorful of boat races, is held here on the second Saturday of August every year.

One of the best-known ports along the Malabar coast, Alappuzha is doubly advantaged. Not only does it have natural beauty but it is also the hub of the coir trade coir production center. More than anything else, it is the countryside, minutes away from the town, that woos visitors. And the best part of the place can only be seen and appreciated on a country-made boat cruise up and down the canals. Temperate and humid like most coastal places in Kerala, Alappuzha can be best enjoyed during winter.

Other than the backwater cruise and the boat race, you can take time off to visit the Chettikulangara Bhagvathy Temple in Alappuzha. The Kettukazhcha festival in February/ March at the temple is well known for its spectacular pageant of chariots, horses and bullocks and cultural performances. 

Champakulam Church, one of the seven churches established by St. Thomas in Kerala, is one of the important Christian places of worship in Alappuzha.

One of the most popular tourist destinations is long, sandy Alleppey beach. The pier, which extends into the sea, near the beach is well over a century old. One can enjoy the entertainment facilities at the beach park and also take a look at the old lighthouse nearby.

The nearest airport is at Cochin, 85 km away. he place is also connected to all major cities of the region and other parts of India with express trains. Alppuzha is well connected by road.