Travel for pilgrimage and learning has been an integral part of Indian cul;ure from the beginning of civilization Tourisrr today is a unifying force globally and contribute to national unity, cultural ingration and understanding among people from different regions 0our vast country. In India millions of people directly or indirectly depend on toursm for tneir employment and livelihood, "ourism is Ife third largest source of our foreign exchange earnings. But considering the immense potential of tourism in our country, the growth co Jd be much larger. Tourism is in fact the largest rdustry in the world and therefore strategic importance to countries with natural endowments suchasours. India has been a tourist destination fron ancient limes. Fahien and Hwen-Tsiang from China, Mar* Twain and few Christian Apostes from the West came to India many yea's ago. But still many beautiful treasures of our co.ntry are little Known or unknown lo our own pecpe. With Ihis objective In mine the author has planned Ihis Encyclopaedia by covering incependently each State with detailed analysis of its cultural., geographical, "airal and as well as social resources. For the convenience of the readers 28 Stales and 7 Unkr Teriloiies are coverea under 2 volumes. As a result, this Encyclopaedia would nol only irterest domestic anc foreign tourists who desire to know more about the destmatior (state) they intend & visit but would also be a useful resource material for travel professionals, pa'lianentarians. sludants and as well as ccmmo-reader.