Autobiography of a Yogi

by

Paramahansa Yogananda

Philosophy

Spiritual

Autobiography

One of best books I have ever read. An excellent primer to spiritual India seen from the eyes of Yogi from his childhood till his path. Recommended for entire human race. Every time you read you will learn something new.

Sri Sri Ramakrishna Kathamrita

by

Mahendranath Gupta (M)

Philosophy

Spiritual

Memoirs

Diary kept by M, a disciple of Sri Sri Ramakrishna, during his visits to the great master; includes the masters interaction with M and other disciples/visitors. Later published in book form. Teachings of the master as he discussed with his disciples and visitors-a highly recommended book

Living with the Himalayan Masters

by

Swami Rama

Philosophy

Spiritual

Autobiography

Mans Eternal Quest

by

Paramahansa Yogananda

Philosophy

Spiritual

The Bhagavad Gita

by Paramahansa Yogananda

Philosophy

Spiritual

The Holy Science

by

Swami Sri Yukteswar Giri

Philosophy

Spiritual

Autobiography of an Unknown Indian

by

Nirad C. Chaudhuri

Autobiography

Inside the Kingdom

by

Carmen Bin Ladin

Autobiography

Experience of an western bred girl married in most orthodox  Saudi (Osama) Bin Laden family. Her recount of days spend in the golden cage.

Selected Memory

by

Shobha De

Autobiography

Shobha De telling about herself rather than others. A welcome break from her fiction. Her best literary work according to me.

My Feudal Lord

by

Tehmina Durrani

Autobiography

A view of male dominated Pakistani society and position of women, even in high society. A mirror of current Pakistani society and politics. Must read for all.

The Monk who sold his Ferrari

by

Robin Sharma

Self Help

Who Will Cry When You Die

by

Robin Sharma

Self Help

Nuggets of wisdom from Robin Sharma

Sherlock Holmes (Complete ed)

by

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Fiction

Fiction bordering on reality. Sherlock Holmes is more flesh and blood than any living detective. Must read for all. Available in all major languages.

The Universe in a Nutshell

by

Stephen Hawkins

Science

Excellent figures/diagrams in color explaining basic laws of Physics and universe, from the best known living physicist. Must read for all School going teen.

Cold Zero

by Christopher Whitcomb

Autobiography

A true story of FBI anti-hostage and sniper squad. Gives a glimpse of the organization.

The Penguin Book of Indian Names

by Maneka Gandhi

Compilation

Dictionary

Harry Potter Series (I to VIII)

by

J. K. Rowling

Fiction

Probably the best teen fiction written in long times. Recommended for all grown ups.

Da Vinci Code

by Dan Brown

Fiction

Angels & Demons

by Dan Brown

Fiction

A notch better than Da Vinci code. For all who have read Da Vinci Code.

Kullu and Manali

(Northern India)

Hill Station

(Hi-altitude)

Kullu is known as valley of Gods. Manali with its snow capped peaks, Apple orchards, rose gardens and rivulets can compete with most Swiss towns in scenic beauty. Also known for its Buddhist monasteries. Must visit for all tourists.

Shimla

(Northern India)

Hill Station

Capital of Himachal, another scenic township in lap of Himalayas. Accessible by narrow gauge toy train.

Darjeeling

(Eastern India)

Hill Station

This queen of hill stations is another favourite tourist spot. Known for its 'Mall' or the main walkway. A heritage toy train connects with plains. Excellent view of snow capped Kanchenjunga-India's highest Himalayan peak . Famous for Tea.

Kodaikanal (Kodai)

(Southern India)

Hill Station

A scenic hill station in Nilgiris.

Ootacamund (Ooty)

(Southern India)

Hill Station

Heart of Nilgiris. Has a toy train running. Location for scores of Indian movies.

Munnar

(Southern India)

Hill Station

Pristine, dotted with tea and spice gardens. Famous for spice flavored tea.

Goa

(South-Western India)

Aminia

Kolkata

Excellent mughlai food. Known for biryanis, kebabs, firni.

Chungs

East End,

Bangalore

Good Chinese food (less Indian variety). Reasonable prices, good portions.

Kabab Magic

East End,

Bangalore

More famous for takeaway. Non-veg food-low prices, ample portions. Evenings only-crowded after 7PM.

Woodys

9th Block, Jayanagar,

Bangalore

Great veg food. Bit pricey but great food. Both self service and full service.