Why Travel To New Mexico

Indian tribes inhabited New Mexico until the Spanish arrived with arms and horses. In 1610 New Mexico made its capitol at Santa Fe. They were too enthusiastic in building an economic tribute system resulting in a bloody revolt by the native Indians of Santa Cruz de la Canada (near Espanola) and so many settlers fled to south.

Many tribes fought with each other or Spanish abducting each other and making servants and slaves. Many settlers came back in 1692 and Spanish people promising the Indians a better future.

All the communities survived for many years and interacted, and even got married with each other. Their population increased and Spanish built many cities for them and this started the development of New Mexico.

In 1824, the state became the territory of Mexico, but in 1846, it joined US. Two decades later Railroad improved its economic position. The regional landholders were forced to flee by new dishonest Anglo-lawyers, who defrauded them. Despite these injustices, the natives were still loyal to America. Today the state has made tremendous progress in dairies, farming and only water is scarce, but natives are doing everything to save it, before New Mexico turns into a desert.

The US's deepest limestone cave is located at Carlsbad Caverns National Park with many other caves with accessible underground chambers. It was created on 25 October, 1923 and made a National Park on 14 May, 1930. It also became a World Heritage Site on 6 December, 1995. WARNING: Do not carry your flash cameras along as it might disturb bats living there.

Set up in 1851 Fort Union National Monument stood guard to Santa Fe Trail. During its 40-year history, two more forts came up and the last, but not the least, used to be Military's HQ. All the Santa Fe Trails are viewed from these forts.

Aztec Ruins National Monument depicts ruins of people who lived here during 1100s, 1200s. It was declared a monument in 1923 and was made a World Heritage Site in 1987. Chaco Culture National Historic Park is unique for its very well constructed homes. Everything (roads and buildings), out here is very well laid out, making this place remarkable.

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument presents a glimpse into life of people who lived in 1200s and 1300s. It lies at the edge of Gila Forest, nation's first designated area. All surroundings look as they did originally. No road was made which would pass through the Forest area and Gila National Forest is responsible for administration of the monument.