India Incredible

Kaziranga National Park

2011-08-27T05:00:00.001-07:00

Kaziranga National Park

Attractions - Close look at Rhino, Swamp deer etc. on 'Elephant Safari' every morning. Sighting variety of wildlife by 'Jeep Safari', thousands of local and migratory birds flocking in wetlands and the scenic beauty of Karbi Anglong Hills.

Significance: Largest undivided representative area of Brahmaputra valley flood plain grassland, complex eco-system of grassland, where various stages of biotic succession in

What you expect to see :

Mammals : The Park is the abode to more than 70% of One Horned Rhinoceros in the world. Highest density of tigers' prey including the large prey biomass of tiger found in the country. Harbours more than 60% of India's wild buffalo population along with the only population of the Eastern Swamp deer and seven species of turtles and tortoises. The other important wildlife found are - Leopard, Fishing Cat, other Lesser cats, Large Indian
Civet, Small Indian Civet, Sambar, Barking deer, Hog deer, Gaur, Hog Badger, Hoolock Gibbon, Capped Langur, Assamese Macaque, Rhesus Macaque, Sloth Bear, Gangetic Dolphin and Otter etc.

Census figures of Big Five are - One horned Rhino-1855 (2006), Swamp Deer -468 (2000), Wild Buffalo- 1431 (2001), Tiger-85 (2000), Elephant-1246(2005).

Birds: Home to 25 Globally Threatened and 21 Near Threatened species of birds. So far
480 bird species have been identified and recorded in the Park. The Baza, Bengal Florican, Hornbills, Osprey etc. are the endangered species. Presence of Pelicans and various waterfowls both resident and migratory etc.

Aquatic Flora & Fauna- More than 150 perennial water bodies are located inside the Park, where water level fluctuates temporally resulting in the generation of a very rich aquatic floral diversity. More than 32 species of flora have so far been identified. More than 60 species of fishes have been recorded and is the breeding ground of many of the local species.

How to reach : Rowraiah (Jorhat) is the nearest Airport which is 97 Kms. away and LGBI Airport (Guwahati) is 239 Kms. away. The road distances from nearest cities & towns to Kohora are : from Jorhat is 89 Kms., from Nagaon is 96 Kms., from Guwahati is 219 Kms., from Golaghat is 73 Kms. and from Bokakhat is 21 Kms.

Where to stay:

Tourist Lodges & Resorts - Under Assam Tourism Department at Kohora - Bonani Lodge, Bonshree Lodge and Kunjaban Lodge, Tel..-03776-262423 and under Assam Tourism Development Corporation - Aranya Lodge and Prasanti Cottages, Tel.- 03776-262429.
Private Lodges - Wildgrass Resort near Kohora, Tel.-03776-262085, G.L. Resort, Burapahar, Tel.-03672-299823, Dolphin Lodge, Bokakhat, Tel.-94350-95991, Kaziranga Lodge, Bokakhat, Tel.-03776-268321, Dhansiri Lodge, Kohora, Tel.-03776-262501, Green Reed, Kohora, Tel.-03776-262417, Ma Kamala Resort, Kohora, Tel.-03776-262437, Wildlife Society, Kohora, Tel.-03776-262494, Holiday Home, Kohora, Bon Habi, Kohora, Tel.- 03776-262675, Ashraya, Kohora, Tel.-03776-262163.

Whom to contact for visit:

For Assistance -The Range Officer, Kaziranga Range, Kohora, Tel.-03776-262428, The Range Officer, Western Range, Baguri, Tel.- 03672-283463, The Range Officer, Eastern Range, Agoratoli, Tel.-03776-268032, The Range Officer, Burapahar Range, Ghorakati, Tel.-03672-279012.

For Information-The Director, Kaziranga National Park, P.O .Bokakhat ,Dist .Golaghat, Tel.-03776-268095(O), 268086(R ) Fax-268095, E-mail: unicornis @ sancharnet.in, Divisional Forest Officer, Eastern Assam Wildlife Division, P.O. Bokakhat, Dist. Golaghat, Tel.-03776-268007 (O) 268041 (R), ACF & WLRO, Eastern Assam Wildlife Division, PO.Bokakhat, Dist. Golaghat, Tel.-03776-268007 (O). Website-www.kaziranga100.com

Best season for visit - November to April.

Travel - Sipti

2011-08-27T04:56:00.001-07:00

Spiti is the sub division of Lahaul & Spiti district with its hqrs. at Kaza. It is called "Little Tibet" because it has almost the same terrain, vegetation & climate . Spiti also means "Middle Country". It lies between Tibet, Ladakh, Kinnaur, Lahaul & Kulu. From Shimla via Kinnaur there is a motorable road which remains open upto Kaza for 8 to 9 months. About 10kms. ahead of Pooh, satluj enters India near Shipki la & Spiti river joins it at Khab. The road then goes to Sumdo via Hangrang valley. From Sumdo Spiti valley starts. The Spiti river flows fast through deep gorges at some places. The valley is not wide but there are villages and some fields where people grow barley, buck- wheat, peas & vegetables. It has an area of 4800 sq. kms. Some inhabitants have adopted Budhism as there faith and Bhoti is the spoken language. The people are simple and honest. The main Spiti valley is split into eastern and western valleys. They are connected with Ladakh & Tibet on eastern side & Kinnaur and Kulu on western side through high passes.

Giu Village: Located near the Indo-Tibet border, the village has a naturally preserved unique Mummy, which is more than 500 years old and is an attraction for the visitors. The village Giu is situated at a height of approx 10,000 feet above the sea level. The mummy in the village is placed in a room constructed on a hilltop. It is believed that this mummy is of a Lama, who died at the age of around 45 years and was found in a sitting posture. Presently, the mummy is kept in an open glass box. Giu village is approximately 10 km from Giu nallah and village is connected with link road. Giu nallah is between Sumdo and Tabo.

Approach

There are two routes to enter Spiti.

From Manali via Rohtang Pass to Kaza, the hqtr. of Spiti. Manali is connected by Air, Rail and Road. From Manali, there is a regular bus from July to October.

From Shimla via Kinnaur. Shimla is connected by Air, Rail & Road. From here by buses to Kaza from May to October.

Map of Lahaul and Spiti valley

Distances from Kaza

Places to visit
Km
Dhankar monastery 34
Gete
24
Langza
18
Hikkim 28
Comic 31
Keylong 197
Kibber 19
Kungri 40
Kunzum pass 78
Kye monastery 12
Losar 60
Manali 200
Tabo monastery 50
Thang Yug Gompa 13
Mud

Travel - Shimla

2011-08-27T04:55:00.003-07:00

Height: Most of the town lies between 2,100 m and 2,300 m

Languages spoken: Hindi. Also English, Punjabi and Pahari.

Religion: Mostly Hindu. Also Sikh, Muslim and Christian

Medical Facilities: Good

Telecommunications: Worldwide links by the net, telephone and fax, code: 0177

With all its intricacies, history seems to have been the mortar for every brick and stone that has built Shimla. As the summer capital of British India for well over a century it was the seat of one of the most powerful governments in the world. From its cedar-shaded heights, one fifth of the human race was ruled and the decisions made those decades ago affect our lives to the present day.

The town of Shimla rose in the nineteenth century when the Gurkha Wars came to an end in 1815-16 and the victorious British decided to retain certain pockets as military outposts and sanitaria. In 1822 the most rigorous of dandies and the greatest of sticklers for form Captain Charles Pratt Kennedy, Political Agent to the Hill States directed that a house be built for him at the village whose name is variously reported as Sheyamalaya Shumlah, Shimlu and Shemlah. Kennedy House led the vanguard of the hundred-odd houses that were to scatter themselves by 1841 over every level or gently inclining space. Lured by the climate and terrain scores of European invalids began moving to the station and the only stipulation of the local chief who owned the land was that no tree be cut or cattle slaughtered.

In 1864 the Viceroy, John Lawrence anointed Shimla – then spelt Simla, as the summer capital of British India. With Lawrence came the Viceroy Council, the Imperial Secretariat, representatives of the Indian princes and foreign envoys. As the town grew to become the workshop of the Empire, an awed visitor observed, every pigeonhole cradled an embryo of a war or death. Despite the fact that up to the time of Indian independence in 1947, Shimla officially remained only the summer capital, yet the Government spent more time in these hills than at the actual capital Calcutta and later New Delhi. As the bearer of the Viceregal sceptre this tiny pocket became the cynosure of British Empire. Imperial grandeur, and all the panoply and trappings of power came along for the ride. And there was a popular local saying that went, “You cannot sleep the nights in Simla for the sound of grinding axes”. A social whirl of parties, gymkhanas, balls, fancy fairs and affaires du Coeur ensured that a heady mixture of scandal and intrigue constantly wafted through the town.

Quite inevitably the freedom movement had a close connection with Shimla. Ornithologist and former Civil Servant, Allan Octavian Hume created the Indian National Congress which spearheaded the struggle while living in the town. Stalwarts like Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Nehru, C. Rajagopalachari, Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya and Maulana Azad regularly visited Shimla. Major events that took place in the town were the Simla Conference in 1942, the deliberations of the Cabinet on and finally the decision to partition India.

And while the British Empire may have ceased to exist, its echoes linger on in the architecture and ambience of this hill resort. The elements of nostalgia may be strong but Shimla also has a youthful vigour in its pace. Its easy accessibility and several other attractions have made it one of India’s most popular hill resorts. There are many unforgettable walks, day-excursions by the dozen, a variety of convenient shopping and entertainment museums, and ice-skating in winter. Shimla is the base or the unwinding point for numerous exhilarating routes to the state interior.

Today the town is distinctive for its variety of architecture. It has one of the rare surviving urban forests, made all the more unique, for its species are temperate to alpine ones in what is otherwise a tropical zone. And then Shimla’s famous Mall offers one of the longest stretches of pedestrian shopping in the world.

View of Shimla from Jakhoo hill

Within and around Shimla, the public and private sector offer an enormous range of accommodation that range from modern to heritage hotels. Like satellites placed around the centre, there are many resorts in Shimla’s periphery that are full-fledged destinations in their own right. These are located at Mashobra, Naldehra, Kufri, Shilon Bagh and Chail. En route by road from Kalka there are Parwanoo, Dharampur and Kasauli.

Map of tourist spots around Shimla

Plan Your Sightseeing

If you are fond of walking, Shimla will unfold parts that remain hidden to vehicles. Combinations by car and then on foot are possible in several areas. It is suggested that you take a direction for the day and cover the places of interest.

The area around the Institute of Advanced Study has several walks. Combine these with visit to the State Museum and expand if you will towards Kamna Devi.

Tara Devi and Sankat Mochan can be linked with a short train ride to Tara Devi station. The Himalayan Queen that leaves Shimla at 10.15 am is recommended.

Jakhoo can be combined with a stroll and shopping on the Mall and in Lakkar Bazaar. The Lower Bazaar that runs parallel to the Mall at a lower level has the flavour of a typical Indian market place. Trinkets that can be purchased here include silver jewellery. You can also walk towards Chotta Shimla and Raj Bhavan the residence of the state Governor. The recently created rooms of Himachal Darshan offer a glimpse of the various district in the state. Jakhoo has several paths that criss-cross the hill a good walk is along the old Five Benches Road near the microwaves link tower. The Bharari spur also has many walks that can be done in a few hours or carried over the day

Special Interest

Nature

Some routes offer a greater variety of Shimla trees, shrubs, wildflowers and ferns. If you are lucky some bird species can also be sighted. Some suggested places are:

The Glen, and the narrow forest trail that runs above it and loops around Summer Hill. The Bharari spur. Towards the villages of Kamina and Pabo. Trek route down from Kamina to Tattapani.

Colonial Architecture

Most of Shimla has diverse colonial forms culled from all over Europe.

English Renaissance: With a castle-like appearance is the former Viceregal Lodge which is now the Indian Institute of Advanced Study. This is surrounded by assorted cottages.

English Home Counties Marketplace: The Mall

Neo-Gothic: Gorton Castle now the office of the Accountant General and formerly the Imperial Civil Secretariat; the Secretariat of the Himachal Government at Ellerslie; and the Gaiety Theatre on the Mall

Norman- Baronial: District Courts.

Swiss- Bavarian chalets: The Chalet Day School and Cedar Lodge (Punjab Government Rest House).

Tudor: The Library on the Ridge and Barnes Court

Churches: Christ Church, St. Andrew and the deconsecrated churches of St. Andrew’s (now, the Evening College) All Saints Chapel 9nearthe gates of the Indian Institute of Advanced Study).

Cemeteries: Adjoining Oakover, the residence of the Chief Minister of Himachal has the oldest one. The largest ‘old-one’ is below St. Edward’s school and is approached via the Potato Research Station. The one at Sanjauli also dates back to colonial times and is still in use.
Others: Yarrows, various schools and college and cottages all over town.

Shopping

Handicrafts. Shawls and tweeds. Fruit juice and jams. Honey. Quality woollens. Silver jewellery. Rare books and etchings. Contemporary pahari miniature paintings. Metalware. Rugs and carpets. Handmade footwear. Wooden items like walking sticks.

Planning a Week in the Shimla Sector

A week’s time will give you a healthy sampler of Shimla. Dividing your time between the town and suburbs is suggested. You can also divide your stay between the town and the peripheral region. A good time to do the walks are the mornings. A visit to the Mall is the ideal plan for the evenings. When visiting the suburbs plan for most of the day. In season, an appropriate activity like activity – like ice-skating can be pursued. Let your hotel or an approved travel agent help you plan your itinerary – those few minutes will add a great deal to your stay.

Distances from Shimla


Places to visit	Km
Chadwick Falls	7
Chindi	94
Craignano	18
Fagu	22
Hatkoti	109
Indian Institute of Advanced Study	4
Jakhoo Temple	2.5
Jubbal	90
Kharapathhar	85
Kotgarh	82
Mashobra	12
Naldehra	23
Narkanda	65
Prospect Hill	5
Rampur	130
Recong Peo	231
Sankat Mochan	7
Sarahan	171
State Museum	3
Summer Hill	7
Tara Devi	11
Tattapani	53

Travel - Shimla

2011-08-27T04:55:00.001-07:00

Map of tourist spots around Shimla

Distances from Shimla


Places to visit	Km
Chadwick Falls	7
Chindi	94
Craignano	18
Fagu	22
Hatkoti	109
Indian Institute of Advanced Study	4
Jakhoo Temple	2.5
Jubbal	90
Kharapathhar	85
Kotgarh	82
Mashobra	12
Naldehra	23
Narkanda	65
Prospect Hill	5
Rampur	130
Recong Peo	231
Sankat Mochan	7
Sarahan	171
State Museum	3
Summer Hill	7
Tara Devi	11
Tattapani	53

Travel - Jammu & Kashmir

2011-08-18T09:18:00.000-07:00

OVERVIEW

The State of Jammu & Kashmir has main three geographical regions known as “The Lesser Himalayas” or the “Jhelum Valley” (Kashmir), “The Inner Himalayas” or “The Indus Valley” (Ladakh & Frontier areas) also called “Trans-Himalayas”, and “The Outer-Himalayas” or “The Southern mountain range” (Jammu). The area of J&K is 2,22,236 square kilometers.

KASHMIR

Carved tectonically, the valley of Kashmir is a longitudinal depression in the great north-western Himalayan range, situated at an altitude of 1590 mtrs (5209) feet having latitude between 23-4' and 37-6 'North and longitude between 72-31' and 77-30' East. A typical oval shaped valley, its length has a parallel axis to the general direction of the bordering mountains – The Shivaliks, The Middle Mountains, The Pir Panjal, The Himalayas, The Zanaskar, The Ladakh and The Korakaram.

Srinagar: Srinagar is located in the heart of the Kashmir valley at an altitude of 1,730 m(1530 feet) above sea level, spread on both sides of the river Jhelum. The Dal and Nagin lakes enhance its picturesque setting, while the changing play of the seasons and the salubrious climate ensures that the city is equally attractive to visitors around the year.

Kalhana, the author of 'Rajtarangini’, states that Srinagar was founded by Emperor Ashoka (3rd Century BC). The present city of Srinagar was founded by Pravarasena-II, and Hiuen Tsang, who visitedKashmir in 631 AD, found it at the same site as it is today. Laltaditya Muktapida was the most illustrious ruler of Kashmir in the Hindu period, which ended in 1339 AD. King Zain-ul-Abidin (1420-70 AD), popularly known as ‘Budshah’, was a great patron of Sanskrit. Akbar captured Kashmir valley for the Mughals, who endowed Srinagar with beautiful mosques and gardens. The Sikhs overthrew the last Muslim ruler in the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1819. In 1846 the Dogras secured the sovereignty of Kashmir from the British under the Treaty of Amrjtsar, and in 1947 the state of Jammu and Kashmirwith Srinagar as its capital, became part of the Indian Union.

Shalimar Gardens

Initially, the valley of Kashmir used to be vast Lake, mythologically called Satt e Sar, which in course of time got drained by deepening of the Baramulla - Khadiniyar gorge. The valley is distinctively marked by breath-taking lakes, fresh water streams, luscious fruits, magnificent forests, mighty mountains and lush meadows which makes it a paradise on Earth. The mountain-downs or “margs” are numerous on the tops of the hill ranges prominent being Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Yousmarg etc.

Famous valleys of Kashmir include: Lidder Valley, Sindh Valley, Lolab Valley, Bangus Valley, Dachigam Valley, Gulmarg Valley, Gurez Valley, Yousmarg Valley etc.

LADAKH

Situated at the western edge of the Tibetan plateau, Ladakh is bound by the mighty Karokaram mountain range in the north and the Great Himalayas in the South. Landscape of Ladakh has been modified and sculpted into the spectacular shape by the wind and the erosion over the centuries. Its altitude ranges from 9000 to 25000 feet. And is traversed by other mountain chains, the Ladakh range and Zanaskar range. It is rightly called “the broken moonland” and “land of endless discovery”.

Today a high-altitude desert, shelter ed from the rain-bearing clouds of the Indian monsoon by the barrier of the Great Himalaya, Ladakh was once covered by an extensive lake system, the vestiges of which still exist on its south-east plateaux of Rupshu and Chushul, in the drainage basins or lakes of Tso-moriri, Tso-kar and Pangong-tso. But the main source of water is winter snowfall.

Shey Monastery - Leh, Ladakh

Dras, Zanskar and the Suru Valley on the Himalaya's northern flanks receive heavy snow in winter, this feeds the glaciers from which melt water, carried down by streams, irrigates the fields in summer. For the rest of the region, the snow on the peaks is virtually the only source of water. As the crops grow, the villagers pray not for rain, but for sun to melt the glaciers and liberate their water.

JAMMU

Set against the backdrop of the snow-capped Pir Panjal range, Jammu marks the transition between the Himalayas in the north and the dusty plains of the Punjab in the south, bridging these two extremities by a series of scrub covered hills, forested mountain ranges and deep river valleys. The southernmost unit of the state of Jammu & Kashmir, Jammu region is traversed by the Shivalik hills and quenched by the rivers Ravi, Tawi and Chenab.

Lakes

KASHMIR

Today Srinagar is a resort for the tourists who can experience, at first hand, the peculiar beauty of the valley that has attracted the Chinese, the Mughals and the British to it. Its waterways with their own quaint lifestyle, the unique Houseboat, the blossoming gardens, water sports activities, shopping for lovingly hand-crafted souvenirs and the nearby resorts make it a cherished spot among those looking for a memorable holiday.

Dal Lake

Dal Lake

Dal Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes of India and the second largest in the J&K state. Its three sides are surrounded by majestic mountains and a large number of gardens and orchards have been laid along the shores. The campus ofUniversity of Kashmir is also located along the shores of the lake. DalLake is unique in having hundreds of houseboats, which afford an opportunity for tourists to reside on the lake in an atmosphere of peace and tranquility.

Nagin Lake

Nagin Lake is located just a small distance away fromDal Lake. In fact both the water bodies are interconnected by a small water channel. In summer time the water is pleasantly cool. Even in the middle of the lake you can experience the thrill of shopping. There are boats that are full-fledged shops on the move. You can buy eateries, exquisite handicrafts, even the famous Pashmina shawls, and if you wish, you can even make a call from the mobile phone booths.

Wular Lake

It is difficult to describe in mere words the beguiling beauty of WularLake. For one, its formidable size - this is one of Asia's largest fresh water lakes - for another, it changes character with every few miles. The drive fromSrinagar will take you to the calm waters of Manasbal, where there is no other sound but birdsong. Manasbal has often been described as the bird watcher's paradise, and as your shikara glides through this mirror of tranquillity, you will experience yet another facet of Kashmir.From Watlab, the WularLake stretches away as far as the eye can see, edged by picturesque villages around terraced breeze-rippled fields of paddy, in a riotous burst of colour, the sheer grandeur of the spectacular countryside at leisure.

Manasbal

Manasbal Lake

LADAKH

Pangong Lake

Pangong Lake

(150 KM/4267 M), is about 130 km long, 5-6 km wide, straddling across the border between India & China. The ochre hills of the Change-chenmo range surrounding it from the north provide a spectacular backdrop to the blue and green expanse of its brackish water.

Tsomo-riri Lake

Tsomo-riri lake

(220 Km/4572m) Set in the desolate landscape of rupshu, is famous as the breeding ground of the rare bare-headed geese, and home to a number of other rare bird species. The small village of Korzok, with its hilltop monastery is the only habitation in the area, which is other wise inhabited by the nomadic Change-pa tribe.

Tsokar Lake

It is renowned for bird watching and is located on Leh - Manali road , migratory birds adorn this lake during summer months.

JAMMU

Mansar Lake

Situated 62 kms from Jammu, Mansar is a beautiful lake fringed by forest-covered hills, over a mile in length by half-a-mile in width. Besides being a popular excursion destination in Jammu, it is also a holy site, sharing the legend and sanctity of Lake Mansarovar. Newly weds consider it auspicious to perform three circumambulations (‘Parikarma’) around the lake to seek the blessings of Sheshnag, the lord of serpents, whose shrine is located on its eastern bank. There are also some ancient temples on the lake’s shores, which are visited by devotees in large numbers. Mansar is also ideal for boating.

Surinsar Lake

Surinsar, at a distance of 9 kms from Mansar is a smaller lake but as picturesque with an island situated in the middle. Religious taboos do not permit swimming or boating in the lake. It is a wetland and a bird sanctuary rich in flora and fauna. Water birds of all variety make this lake a bird watcher’s haven.

GARDENS

Kashmir

Mughal Garden, Shalimar

Shalimar garden was built by Mughal Emperor Jehangir in the year 1619 AD and called it "Farah Baksh" (the delightful). Eleven years later Zaffer Khan the Governor of Kashmir during Emperor Shah Jahan's reign extended the garden and called it "Faiz Baksh" (the Bountiful). The garden was graded in three sections. The outer garden known as the Diwan-i-Aam, the central porrion the Emperor's garden called as the "Diwan-iKhas" and the uppermost by far the best garden was meanc for the Empress and her ladies. The romantic effect of numerous fountains in large tanks and central water channel, cascades, and monumental pavilions, mighty chinars, lush lawns laden with colour and fragrance speak volumes for the taste of Great Mughal. The garden covers an area of 12.40 ha.15 kms from the TRC

Nishat Garden

Nishat Garden

Nishat garden, the garden of Delight, the largest Mughal Garden on Dal-Lake was laid out by Asaf Khan, brother of Nur Jahan, wife of Jahangir, in the year 1632 A.D. It is located on Dal-Lake about 2.5 Kilometers to the south of Shalimar and commands a magnificent view in the west and has a panoramic back drop of mountains in the East. The garden had originally 12 terraces. Enchanting central water channel, rippling fountains in large tanks and channels and sparkling cascades amidst bountiful colours, lush lawns and mighty chinars are principal features of this pleasure garden. The garden is spread over an area of about 20 ha.

This garden of the royal spring was built in 1642 A.D. by Ali Mardan Khan, the Governor of Kashmir during the reign of Emperor Shah ]ahan. It is a terraced garden situated 9 Km away from Srinagar and about 2 Km up from the main road in a mOllntain side over-looking Dal-Lake. Fountains play in the central water channel starting from the famed spring located in the upper most terrace. It is famous for its pure, sparkling and cool mineral water. To cope up with the ever-increasing tourist traffic the garden has been extended in recent years. It has also been lit recently with multicoloured garden lights. This has proved an added attraction for tourists as well as 10cals.The garden extends over an area of 6.20 ha.

Pari Mahal

Pari Mahal

The name Pari Mahal appears to be a distorted version of "Peer Mahal" built by Prince Dara Shikoh, eldest son of Emperor Shah ]ahan in the year 1640 A.D. for his tutor Peer Mullah Shah. Once the royal observatory, it is a seven terraced garden located on the base of Zabarvan mountain range over-looking city of Srinagar and Dal-Lake.

The Mahal Built for the meditation and summer residence of Peer Mullah Shah is a replica of typical Mughal architecture in garden layout, water now been restored to its glory with captivating terraced gardens, motorable road up to the garden and wonderful lighring effects which look marvelous and captivating at night. It covers an area of about 3.20 ha.

Harwan

On the hillside, south of the village of Harwan (19 kms from the TRC)), remarkable remains of ancient ornamented tile pavements of the Buddhist period have come to light. The tiles depict the dresses of the people, such as loose trousers, Turkoman caps or close fitting turbans and large ear-rings which reveal Central Asian influence. It is ASI site.

Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden,

Cheshmashahi, Srinagar

This beautiful landscape garden took birth in the year 1969 on the enchanting Zabarwan mountain slopes near famous Mughal Garden Cheshmashahi, overlooking the panorama of Dal-Lake. This pleasure garden complex extends over an area of about 80 hectares and consists of several styles of gardens with unending joy for seekers of solace on informal and undulated landscape. It comprises of four components- Recreational Garden, Botanical Garden, Research Section, and Plant Introduction Centre. A beautiful lake spread over an area of 17 hectares with joy riding boats is also the attraction of the garden. The garden provides a 3.5 Kilometer joyride, a pleasant water garden, inspiring colour feast of spring, fragrance and colour pageantry of roses, riot of colours in summer, changing autumn colours and captivating twitter of water falls. Over 1.5 Lakh ornamental plants, representing about 300 plant species have been planted in the garden.

Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden

Tulip garden previously named as Model Floriculture Centre, Sirajbagh, Cheshmashahi Srinagar, is spread over an area of about 30 ha situated On the foothills of Zabarwan Hills with an overview of picturesque world famous Dal Lake. This garden was conceived, conceptualized and created by Mr. Gh. Nabi Azad, the then Chief Minister, J&K in the year 2006-07. Main aim of this garden is to boost floriculture and advance tourism in Kashmir Valley. Over 12 Lakh tulip bulbs of 68 varieties of different colours sown during Nov-Dec, 2007 presented a breathtaking view.

Jharokha Mughal Garden, Manasbal

The little known Jarogabal garden is located on the steep North Eastern Bank of loveliest and loneliest Manasbal Lake. The name in all probability is the distorted version of "Daroga Bagh" also known as "Lalla Rookh's Garden". This royal palace was built for the Empress Noar Jahan. The garden which was in ruins till recently, commands a captivating view of the lake and its environs-serene and calm. It covers an area of about 3.50 ha.

Achabal Garden

Mughal Garden, Achabal, Anantnag

This garden is believed to be laid by Nur Jahan wife of Jahangir in 1620 A.D. It is situated about 62 Km south of Srinagar. It is watered by an ancient and once sacred spring from the adjacent hillside. All its pavilions are Kashmiri in character. Fountains in water channels spray and splash and cascades tumble presenting a romantic view. The garden covers an area of about 6.20 ha. Achabal is located at the foot of a forested hill, 8 km from Anantnag and 56 km from Srinagar

Resting at the foot of a hill with a row of majestic chinars framing it, the garden of Achabal is a visual delight. They embody all that goes to make a Mughal Garden- stepped terraces, formal elegance , ornamental shrubs, sparkling fountains and falling water.

Darashikoh Bagh, Bijbehara, Anantnag

This garden is situated on the national highway about 45 Km from Srinagar on the bank of River ]ehlum.This garden was built by Dara Shikoh eldest son of emperor Shah ]ahan in the year 1640 A.D. It served as camping round for Mughal journey. Majestic Chinars add to the beauty of this garden.This garden is spread over an area of 17.15 ha.

Botanical Garden Kokernag, Anantnag

The pleasure garden of serene beauty against the backdrop of high and thick pine forests existed earlier on about 0.8 ha. in front of the famous springs of pure, cool mineral water.In 1969 the garden was extended to an area of about 26 ha. and converted into a' Botanical Garden besides being a pleasure garden. New lawns have been laid and about One Lakh ornamental plants, trees, bushes, roses, as well as flora from the wild niches of higher range has been planted. A separate section comprising of wild flora of the valley is mainrained in this garden.Modern effects like rosary, Japanese bridges over the gushing water stream, water ponds, live garden seats, topiary work etc. are points of attraction in the garden.

Mughal Garden, Verinag Anantnag

The present name Verinag is probably the deformed version of Virah-Nag in Sanskrit. It is located about 61 Kilometers south of Srinagar at the foot of Banihal hill range. The gushing spring of Verinag is the source of the river Jehlum in Kashmir. Mughal Emperor Jhangir was highly impressed by the natural beauty of this irregular spring and its surroundings and built an octagonal tank of sculptured stones around it in 1620 A.D. Seven years later his son Shah Jahan constructed cascades and fountains in straight lines in front of the spring and also hot and cold baths (Hamams) of which only ruins are now left. Its bountiful gushing water, open lawns, mighty chinars, colour and fragrance of flowers against the backdrop of a green forest are the bounties of nature one can be proud of The garden covers an area of about 5.30 ha.

Kashmir Events & Festivals

Tulip Festival

Tulips bloom

Kashmir has Asia's largest tulip garden called Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, Siraj Bagh Cheshmashahi Srinagar, in the foothills of Zabarwan range with an overview of the Dal Lake.The festival is held annualy in the month of April when tulips are in full bloom. The sprawling tulips of varied colours make the garden look like a silken carpet with intricate designs. The scene is simply captivating with floral charm and is a memorable delight for a visitor.

Baisakhi Festival
This festival also known as "harvest festival' is celebrated in mid April every year welcoming the onsent of Spring season.The festival is considered auspicious for marriages. The occasion is marke by different fairs.Bangra Punjabi dance dominates the festivity.

Khir Bhawani Festival
This festival is annually held in June at Khir Bhawani Shrine, Tulmulla, Ganderbal, in which Hindu devotees participate in scores with reverence to participate in "Maha Yagna", a traditional offering.

Gurez Festival
The festival is held in July every year and showcases the traditional folk dances and songs by the Gurez locals besides white water rafting is held in the Kishenganga river and a camp site is set-up in the scenic Dawar valley of Gurez.The charm of Gurez in its traditional form is irresistible.

Amarnath Yatra

Amarnathji Yatra
Every year, from 1st July to 24th August, this yatra is held from Pahalgam and Sonmarg right upto the Holy Amarnathji Cave, crossing glaciers and mountains. Devotees from all over the country participate in the Yatra. The Yatra is conducted by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board while a host of State Government Departments (Tourism, Revenue, Police, Health) also play their part to ensure that the Yatries have the best of facilities and security while undertaking their journey of faith.

Snow Festival

Snow Festival

This festival is held around Christmas time at Gulmarg, the winter Games capital of India, during which alpine, snow boarding, ice hockey and cross country events are held. Local artists also perform cultural shows and the whole resort wears a festive look and local hotels offer discounts on boarding and lodging during the festival. one can also witness snow scooter and sledge races. A mass is also held at the St Mary's Church.

Urs or annual festivals are held at various shrines mostly in honour of the birth annivarsaries of saints and seers. The prominet ones include: Urs Milad Hazratbal, Urs Peer Dastigeer, Urs Makhdoom Sahib, Urs Naqashband Sahib, Urs Nooruddin Noorani Chrari-sharif, Urs Ashmuquam, Urs Shah-i-Hamdan Khanqah Moulla etc.in which devotees throng in scores for spiritual fulfilment.

Ladakh Events & Festivals

Many of the annual festivals of the Gom pas take place in winter, which is a relatively idle time for majority of the people. These take the form of dance-dramas in the gompa courtyards. Lamas, attired in colourful robes and wearing masks, perform mimes symbolising various aspects of the religion such as the progress of the individual soul and its purification or the triumph of good over evil. Local people flock from near and far to these events.

Festival of Hemis Monastery

The biggest and most famous of the monastic festivals is that of Hemis, which falls in late June or early July, and is dedicated to Padmasambhava. Every 12 years, the gompa's greatest treasures, a huge Thangka, is ritually exhibited. Its next unveiling is due to take place in A.D 2004. Other monasteries, which have summer festivals, are Lam (late July/ early August), Tak-thok (after Phyang) and Karsha in Zanskar (after Phyang). Like Hemis, the Phyang festival too involves the unveiling of a gigantic thangka, though here it is done every third year.

Mask dancers performing in a festival

Spituk, Stok, Thikse, Chemrey and Matho have their festivals in winter between November and March. Likir and Deskit (Nubra) time their festivals to coincide with Dosmochhe, the festival of the scapegoat, which is celebrated at Leh in late February. Dosmochhe is one of two New Year festivals, the other being Losar, which falls around the time of the winter solstice.

The Monastic Festivals

The monastic festivals are annual events of the major monasteries which the local people eagerly look forward to attending, both for attaining religious merit and as a means of social entertainment. These are generally held to commemorate the establishment of a particular monastery, the birth anniversary of its patron saint or some major events in the history and evolution of Tibetan Buddhism. People turn out in the thousands to attend these festivals in their colourful best, making every event a carnival of colours.

A monastic festival in progress

Chhams – The Ritual Dances

The core event of the monastic festival is a highly choreographed ritual dance-drama known as ‘Chhams’, which is directed by the ‘Chham-spon’, the mystic dance master of the monastery. The dances are performed not only to dramatise the esoteric philosophy of the event for the benefit of the lay devotees, but also by way of ritual offerings to the tutelary deities of the monastery and the guardians of the faith. A select group of resident lamas of the monastery, dressed in brightly patterned brocade, robes, perform these dances in the courtyard of the monastery. They also wear masks representing various divinities, which are mostly found in the form of statues in the "Gon Khang", the room dedicated to the guardian divinities. Some of the dances also feature masks representing famous characters from historical episodes or Tibetan fables. The more fearsome ones represent powerful divinities in their various manifestations, mostly representing the Dharmapalas or protectors of the faith. The dancers, holding ritual instruments in hands, step around the central flagpole in the monastic courtyard in solemn dance and mime, in tune with the music of the monastic orchestra. The ritual instruments and the hand gestures or mudras of the dancers symbolise different aspects of the dance-drama. In between the more sombre sequences, relief is provided by a group of comic performers who jump into the scene in the guise of skeletons and other characters, performing comic and acrobatic feats. These also wear masks representing various divinities and religious or historical characters.

HOTELS

KASHMIR

In Srinagar, there are hotels to suit every requirement in terms of price, location and facilities. The most desirable location for a hotel is considered the Boulevard, which overlooks the DalLake. Hotel rooms that overlook the lake cost more than those opening in the opposite direction. Dalgate, which is fairly central for shopping and nearest to the Tourist Reception Centre (TRC), has mostly budget accommodation. Some good hotels are also located in Sonawar and Rajbagh, which are largely residential areas within 2 kms of the TRC. Also there are several hotels on Residency Road, which is right in the middle of a shopping centre, very close to the TRC. Lal Chowk, in the city’s centre, has several medium category hotels, mostly preferred by visiting traders.

Click here for List of Hotels / Guest Houses / Eating Centres in Kashmir

Contacts:

A) Kashmir Hotel & Restaurant Owner’s Federation (KHAROF)

Naik Building, 3rd Floor, Munawarabad M.A. Link Road ,
Srinagar, Kashmir ,190001
Tele: + 91 194 2482695
Fax: + 91 194 2453732, 2455251
Email: kharof@mail.com; kharofsrinagar@rediffmail.com
For more information visit: www.kharof.in

B) Kashmir Hotel & Restaurant Association (KHARA)

Nawa-i-Subh Complex, Zero Bridge,
Srinagar, Kashmir, 190001
Tele: + 91 194 2472249
Fax: + 91 194 2453209

C) Travel Agents Society of Kashmir (TASK)

Baba Dharam Das Road, Bishember Nagar,
Srinagar, Kashmr, 190001
Tele/Fax: + 91 194 2459568
Email: task_srinagar@rediffmail.com

D) Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK)

Dar Complex, Khayam Road, Srinagar

Tele: + 91 194 250 1490; Fax: + 91 194 2501491

Email: taakashmir@yahoo.com

For more information visit: www.kashmirtravelagents.com

E) J&K Tourism Development Corporation (J&K TDC) Accommodation:

J&KTDC has hotel blocks at the Tourist Reception Centres; it is necessary to book well in advance, as these rooms are almost always crowded due to their central location. The Corporation has also commissioned its 80-roomed Heemal Hotel, which is conveniently located on the Boulevard.

For more information & bookings, visit: www.jktdc.co.in

LADAKH

Click here for List of Hotels / Guest Houses in Leh

Leh offers many kinds of accommodation to suit almost every pocket and preference. Most of the hotels are family-run establishments and, therefore, service is more personalized than professional. Hotels are classified into A, B,C and D/economy categories while guest houses are divided into upper, medium and economy class. Tariff for A category hotels generally include all meals, offering a choice or combination of Continental, Chinese and Indian cuisine, with one or two local fares thrown in for variety.

The guest house is a less formal accommodation, offering rooms in a part of the residential house or its annexe, where the guests can share the host family’s kitchen and living room for meals. Apart from the reasonably low tariff offered for accommodation ranging from very good to merely basic, the guest house system also provides an opportunity for the tourists to see and experience Ladakhi life from the inside.

In the newly opened areas of the region – Nubra, Changthang and the Drok-pa area - tourist infrastructure is not yet adequately developed. The State Tourism Department has started development of accommodation facilities like tourist complexes and hiker's huts at various places in these areas. However, in some of these places, especially in the NubraValley, tourists can stay as paying guests with some families who have set up paying guest house in their homes under a State Government sponsored incentive scheme. For visitors toTso-moririLake, accommodation is available near Korzok village in tented camps, which spring up every season. Similar camps are available in various parts of Nubra valley.

During the peak tourist season i.e. early June to mid-September, it is advisable to book hotel rooms in advance. By late September, hotel rooms are easily available as the tourist rush declines. However, tourists planning winter trips may have to book accommodation in advance so as to ensure provision of heating arrangements during the period of their intended stay.

JAMMU

LIST AND TARIFF OF HOTELS IN JAMMU

Rooms

Sr.No.	Name of Hotel	Location with Telephone No.	Room Tariff in Rs. (2009)
Sr.No.	Name of Hotel	Location with Telephone No.	Room Tariff on E.P	Extra Bed
A-Class Hotels

1	JKTDC Dak Bungalow Jammu	141 rooms in various Blocks	Tourist Reception Center, Residency Road - Jammu Tel. 0191- 2549065 – 2579554, 2561513, Ext. 120 9419212458 Fax. 0191- 2549065 Email 786_shamim@gmail.com, shaminwani@gmail.com	500 – 1500
A	Royal Block	04 rooms	2549065 – 2579554,2561513 Ext. 120	DLX. – 1200
B	D Block Fort View	30 rooms		DBL. – 700 Suit. – 1500
C	Eagle Block	20 rooms		DBL. – 700 Suit. – 800
D	Jehlum Valley	46 rooms		DBL. 500 – 700
E	Tawi View	05 rooms
F	Suru Valley H Block	36 rooms
2	Hotel Jammu Ashok	45 rooms	Opp. Amar Mahal, Palace Road, Tel.2543571-76, Fax : 2547110 & 2543576 Website: www.theashokgroup.com Email: hotelashok@rediffmail.com	FIT EP 1400 – 4000 GIT EP 1200–1500	300
3	K.C.Residency	61 rooms	Residency Road Tel.2520770-76 Fax 2575222 Website: www.kcresidency.com E-mail: kcr@kcresidency.com	2200 – 2600 Suite – 5500	500
4	Hari Niwas Palace	20 rooms	Palace Road, Tel. 2570942, 2547216/2546072	3000 – 10500 C.P Maharaja Suite14000	500
5	Hotel Asia	44 rooms	Vikram Chowk, Tel.2435757-60 Fax: 2435757 Website: www.asiahotelsjammu.com Email: asiahotel@sancharnet.in	2595 – 2995 Presidential Suite 6000	300
B-Class Hotels
6	Hotel Imperial	9 rooms	Vir Marg, Tel. 2576102	300 – 500
7	Hotel Jammu International	40 rooms	G.S.S Road, Tel.09419182559,09419235437	AC Room 1190 – 700 Honey Moon Dlx. 1890 Non AC Room 550 – 950	200
8	Jewel Hotel	20 rooms	Jewel Chowk, Tel. 2520801 / 803, Fax: 2520802 / 2547170 Email : jewels@vsnl.com	880 – 1100	200
9	Kranti Hotel	40 rooms	Railway Station Tel. 2470525	900 – 1200	200
10	Moti Mahal	24 rooms	GSS Road, Tel. 2542507	350 – 650	100
11	Naaz Hotel	20 rooms	Vir Marg, Tel.2543836/2573601	300 – 500
12	New Karan Hotel	15 rooms	Bakshi Nagar Tel. 2585746	1190	200
13	Nek Hotel	32 rooms	Below Gumet, Tel. 2579741	300 – 600	50
14	Hotel Premier	20 rooms	Vir Marg, Tel.2453436 Fax 2543731	1200 – 1800 Suite – 2500	300
15	Ritz Hotel	18 rooms	Bye Pass Road Channi Himat Jammu. Tel Fax 2460281,282,283 Website: www.hotelritzmanor.com Email:- trehannirdosh@yahoo.com	1200 – 1950	200
16	Ramsingh Palace	14 rooms	Bus Stand, Tel.2577495
17	Swagat Hotel	25 rooms	G.S.S Road, Tel. 2540168	675 – 1200 Suite 1600	175
18	Samrat Hotel	25 rooms	Bus Stand, Tel.2547402/2577009 Fax 2575711	1050 – 1750	200
19	Standard Hotel	16 rooms	Vir Marg, Tel.2578855	100 – 450	50
20	Hotel Swastik	15 rooms	G.S.S Road, Tel. 2543172 ,2548689	650 – 950	150
21	Hotel Savoy	24 rooms	Jogi Gate Near DPS, 2576173 – 76	DBL – 1500 SNG – 1200 Suite – 1800	200
22	Hotel Shankar	25 rooms	Railway Station Tel. 2471988
23	Vivek Hotel	20 rooms	Bus Stand, Tel.2577553/2547545	850 – 1650	200
24	Vardhan Hotel	26 rooms	Gen Bus Stand, Tel.2547414 /2573212, 2540286 Fax. 2548286 Website: www.hotelvardhanjammu.com Email. vinns@vsnl.com	990 – 1290	150
25	Hotel Yatri	28 rooms	Shalimar Road, Tel. 2575375
C-Class Hotels (Rooms are available in ‘C' Class Hotels and Lodges from Rs 150 – 650)
25	Sher-i-Kashmir	16 rooms	Talab Khatikan, Tel.2579730
26	Taj Hotel	21 rooms	Talab Khatikan, Tel.2579560
27	Hussain Hotel	8 rooms	Talab Khatikan, Tel.2549311
28	Hotel Mughal	9 rooms	Talab Khatikan, Tel.2576871
29	Khushboo Hotel	13 rooms	Talab Khatikan, Tel.2572171
30	Welcome Lodge	17 rooms	Talab Khatikan, Tel.2545703
31	New Kashmir Lodge	10 rooms	Talab Khatikan
32	Pakeeza Lodge	8 rooms	Talab Khatikan
33	Shaheen Lodge	8 rooms	Talab Khatikan
34	Gem Lodge	20 rooms	Panjbakhtar Road,Tel. 2548534
35	Dinesh Hotel	10 rooms	Tel. No. 2520144
36	Hotel India Pride	24 rooms	Below GumatTel. 2579689/ 2560925
37	Charchinar Hotel	9 rooms	Vir Marg, Tel.2 576102
38	Hotel City View	18 rooms	Upper Gumat,Tel. 2546714
39	Green Place Hotel		Upper Gumat,Tel. 2548156
40	Ajay Hotel		Upper Gumat,Tel. 2576722
41	Krishna Hotel		Upper Gumat,Tel. 2549545
42	Darpan Lodge		Upper Gumat,Tel. 2547198
43	Gagan Lodge		Upper Gumat Tel. 2545131
44	Rajindra Lodge	8 rooms	Upper Gumat, Tel.2544724
45	Sahil Lodge		Upper Gumat, Tel.2541081
46	Amar Lodge		Upper Gumat, Tel.2578958
47	Trikuta Lodge		Upper Gumat,Tel. 2578944
48	Ashik Palace		Upper Gumat,Tel. 2576721
49	Amar Top Lodge		Upper Gumat,Tel. 2575586
50	Kanishka Lodge	6 rooms	Parade, Tel. 2520069
51	Anil Hotel	8 rooms	Moti Bazar,Tel. 2545402
52	Gian Hotel	9 rooms	Moti Bazar,Tel. 2549602
53	Karan Hotel	9 rooms	Moti Bazar,Tel. 2579399
54	Apna Ghar	16 rooms	Moti Bazar, Tel.2578142
55	Hotel Shiva Lodge	7 rooms	Moti Bazar,Tel. 2520648
56	Apsra Hotel	20 rooms	Vir Marg,Tel. 2578680
57	Broadway Hotel	22 rooms	Below Gumat,Tel. 2547072
58	Kapoor Lodge	8 rooms	Below Gummat,Tel. 2542146
59	Himalaya Lodge	15 rooms	Below Gumat,Tel. 2543035
60	New India Pride Hotel	32 rooms	Below Gumat,Tel. 2560924
61	Sahil Palace Hotel	20 rooms	Below Gumat,Tel. 2579081
62	Avan Lodge Hotel	20 rooms	Below Gumat,Tel. 2547154
63	King Lodge Hotel	15 rooms	Below Gumat
64	New Golden Lodge	16 rooms	Below Gumat,Tel. 2545946
65	Fort View Lodge	17 rooms	Below Gumat,Tel. 2544985
66	Hotel Vimal Palace	12 rooms	Below Gumat,Tel. 2549774
67	Parkash Regency	14 rooms	Below Gumat,Tel. 2545875
68	Golden Lodge	12 rooms	Below Gumat,Tel. 2545946
69	Silvan Hotel	12 rooms	Below Gumat,Tel. 2575420
70	Mini Broadway	8 rooms	Chandnagar, Tel. 2545031
71	Nagin Lodge	8 rooms	Chandnagar
72	Preeti Lodge	13 rooms	Chandnagar, Tel. 2540490
73	Tourist Camp Lodge	20 rooms	Chandnagar,Tel. 2540052
74	Sangam Hotel	17 rooms	Chandnagar,Tel. 2575458
75	Mahindra Lodge	11 rooms	Chandnagar,Tel. 2548595
76	New Dimond Lodge	24 rooms	Chandnagar,Tel. 2577922
77	Volga Lodge	10 rooms	Chandnagar,Tel. 2576758
78	Star Lodge	10 rooms	Chandnaga,Tel. 2576483
79	Jagdamba Lodge	11 rooms	Chandnagar,Tel. 2548403
80	Khazan Lodge	8 rooms	Chandnagar, Tel.2541268
81	Hotel City Center	30 rooms	Chandnaga,Tel. 2573295, 2548307	AC Room 510-600 Non AC 250-300
82	Jagat Hotel		Hari Market, Tel.2579184
83	Raghunath Hotel		Hari Market, Tel.2547560
84	Jandyal Hotel		Hari Market, Tel.2578059
85	Shivalik Hotel		Hari Market Tel.2575842
86	Crystal Hotel		Hari Market
87	Khorana Hotel		Hari Market, Tel.2542283
88	New Surya Hotel		Hari Market.
89	Romesh Hotel		Hari Market,Tel. 2546386
90	Maduban Hotel		Hari Market,Tel. 2548913
91	Hotel City Heart Lodge		Hari Market,Tel. 2578913
92	Jagan Lodge		R.N.Bazar,Tel. 2579473
93	Himgari Hotel		R.N.Bazar,Tel. 2548041 Fax : 2560949
94	Chander Lok Hotel		R.N.Bazar,Tel. 2542932 / 2545953
95	Aristocrat Hotel	14 rooms	R.N.Bazar, Tel.2549009,2542200 Email:- mahajanmunish@rediffmail.com	250-300
96	Severa Hotel		R.N.Bazar,Tel. 2549936
97	Crown Hotel		R.N.Bazar, Tel. 2540053
98	Jammu Tourist Hotel		R.N.Bazar, Tel. 2578449
99	Mohan Lodge		R.N.Bazar
100	Ambassador Lodge		R.N.Bazar, Tel. 2577455
101	Aroma Lodge		R.N.Bazar, Tel. 2544587
102	King Fisher Lodge		R.N.Bazar, Tel. 2574372
103	Temple View		R.N.Bazar, Tel. 2542241
104	Durgar Palace Lodge		R.N.Bazar, Tel. 2578446
105	Asra Lodge		R.N.Bazar, Tel. 2577229
106	Perth Lodge		R.N.Bazar, Tel. 2545514
107	Hotel Amrita	9 rooms	G.S.S.Road, Tel. 2561006
108	Hotel Plaza	15 rooms	G.S.S.Road,Tel. 2547308 Fax - 2548114
109	Mini Place	24 rooms	G.S.S.Road,Tel. 2543307 Fax - 2542507
110	Hotel Gulmohar	12 rooms	G.S.S.Road,Tel. 2577516
111	Hotel Sachdeva	8 rooms	Vir Marg, Tel. 2544860
112	Pooja Lodge	4 rooms	Vir Marg
113	Hotel Sartaj	23 rooms	Vir Marg, Tel. 2542716
114	Hotel Rajesh	15 rooms	Vir Marg, Tel. 2542716
115	Akshay Lodge	8 rooms	Vir Marg
116	Honey Lodge	3 rooms	Vir Marg
117	Hotel Mughal Darbar	28 rooms	Vir Marg, Tel. 2541954
118	Hotel Arjuna	13 rooms	Jewel Chowk, Tel. 2578211
119	Hotel Vasant Lodge	4 rooms	Shalamar Road Jammu 2560238, 9906256818
120	Hotel Indraprasth		Near ITI College Hospital Road, Udhampur, J&K	Website:- www.hotelindraprasth.com E-mail- info@hotelindraprasth.com

LIST AND TARIFF OF HOTELS IN KATRA, VAISHNO DEVI

Sr.No.	Name of Hotel	Rooms	Location with Tele No.	Room Tariff in Rs. (2007-08)
Sr.No.	Name of Hotel	Rooms	Location with Tele No.	Room Tariff on E.P	Extra Bed
1 a	JKTDC Tourist Bungalow	34 rooms	Near Shalamar Garden Katra Ph. 01991-232009, / 0191 - 2549065 , 2579554	400 – 1000
b	JKTDC Tourist Retiring Center	39 rooms	Bust Stand Katar. Ph. 01991 – 232309 / 0191 - 2549065, 2579554	400 – 300 Common hall for 50 Pax @ Rs. 20/Head
c	JKTDC Yatri Niwas, Katar	26 rooms	Ph. 01991 – 233261 / 0191 - 2549065, 2579554	400 – 300 Common hall for 80 Pax @ Rs. 20/Head
2	Hotel Devi Grand	72 rooms	Katra- Shivkhori Road, Ph. 01991-234035,234036 Fax. 234036. Website: www.devidhotel.com E-mail: varungupta@devigrandhotel.com	2750 – 5750
3	Country Inns & Suites	67 rooms	Jammu - Katra Road, Ph. 01991-233801-07 Fax. 233810	2750 – 7500
4	Hotel Surya Palace	48 rooms	Katra. Ph.232072, 234239 Fax.232672 www.suryapalacekatra.net E-mail: suryauk@yahoo.co.uk	1090 – 3595	400
5	Hotel Maharaja	19 rooms	Katra- Jammu Road, Ph. 01991-232145Cell. 09419847555	1899 – 2299
6	Hotel The Vaishnodevi	38 rooms	Jammu - Katra Road, Ph 233301, 33305, Fax. 233303	1550 – 3850
7	Hotel Asia Vaishno Devi	37 rooms	Jammu - Katra Road Ph.232061, 232161, Fax. 33344www.hotelasiavaishnodevi.com Email info@hotelasiavaishnodevi.com	2000 – 3000	600
8	Hotel Jai Maa Inn	30 rooms	Kashmir Road. Ph 232612, 232658	1990 – 6190
9	Hotel Basera	19 rooms	Jammu - Katra Road Ph. 232123, 232363, Fax. 233163	1290 – 1890
10	Hotel Ishwar	33 room	Jammu - Katra Road Ph 232147, 232750, Fax. 232650	1290 – 2290
11	Hotel Atul Regency	47 rooms	Jammu - Katra Road Ph.01991- 233081, 232515	1095 – 2395
12	Hotel Kashmir Residency	40 rooms	Main Road Katra. Ph. 01991-232920. Fax. 232921 www.kashmirresidency.com	1290 – 3090	250
13	Hotel Asia Shripati	50 rooms	Jammu - Katra Road Ph.01991- 233264, 232399,Fax. 233360	1295 – 2500	250
14	Hotel Ambika	55 rooms	Katra Vaishno Devi. Ph.01991-232062,232400 Fax. 232064 www.hotelambika.com Email. info@hotelambika.com	1050 – 2050	250
15	Hotel Mount View	38 rooms	Katra Vaishno Devi. Ph.01991-234445, Fax. 234405	2199 – 3000
16	Hotel Krishna	37 rooms	Bus Stand Katra Vaishno Devi. Ph.01991-232776,232777 Fax. 232777	995 – 1495
17	Hotel Janta	30 rooms	Kashmir Road Ph. 232109	390 – 1390
18	Hotel Vaisnu	08 rooms	Kashmir Road Ph. 232254,233073	450 – 1050
19	Hotel Ashok	19 rooms	New Bus Stand Katra. Ph 232126, 233291	600 – 1000
20	Hotel Shivalik	28 rooms	Kashmir Road Ph. 232272,233347	450 – 980
21	Hotel Kapoor Palace	36 rooms	Bus Stand Katra Vaishno Devi Ph.01991-232900, 232902 Fax. 232901	650 – 800
22	Hotel Bandhu Palace	30 rooms	Kashmir Road Ph. 232199, 232299	595 – 795
23	Hotel Dalalia City Center	22 rooms	Kashmir Road. Ph 233265, 2324417	300 – 700
24	Hotel Mahindra Palace	29 rooms	New Bus Stand Katra. Ph 232311, 232272	320 – 690
25	Hotel Tara Deluxe	9 rooms	Kashmir Road. Ph 232261, 232742	450 – 650
26	Hotel Damini	20 rooms	Bus Stand Katra. Ph 233277	400 – 650
27	Hotel Shivam	31 rooms	Bus Stand Katra. Ph. 232202, 232402	400 – 600
28	Hotel Sunrise	42 rooms	New Bus Stand Katra. Ph 232208	300 – 550
29	Hotel Vivek	17 rooms	New Bus Stand Katra. Ph 232160	350 – 490
30	Hotel Akash Ganga	23 rooms	New Bus Stand Katra. Ph 232641	150 – 250
31	Hotel Regal	26 rooms	New Bus Stand Katra. Ph 233002	150 – 200
32	Hotel Tridev	47 rooms	New Bus Stand Katra. Ph 232108, Fax 232456	1190 – 1590
33	Hotel Kanchan	17 rooms	Near Dak Bungalow Ph. 232112, 233070	425 – 790
34	Hotel Rama Palace	20 rooms	Near Dak Bungalow Ph. 232184, 232444	700 – 900
35	Hotel Abinandan	8 rooms	Near Dak Bungalow Ph. 232107	250 – 300
36	Hotel Maa	25 rooms	Near Dak Bungalow Ph. 233578, 233520	650 – 1099
37	Hotel Gupta palace	29 rooms	Near Hospital Ph. 233978	750 – 900
38	Hotel Maharani	14 rooms	Ban Ganga Road Ph. 233165	650 – 1000
39	Hotel Prem International	22 rooms	Jammu – Katra Road Ph. 234021	690 – 1290
GUEST HOUSES IN KATRA
1	Bandhu Guest Houses	12 rooms	Kashmir Road. Ph 232199, 232299	495 – 795
2	National Guest House	40 rooms	Jammu – Katra Road Ph. 232165,233474	350 – 550
3	Swagat Guest House	11 rooms	Chinta Mani Road. Ph. 233282, 232829	300 – 450
4	Subash Guest House	20 rooms	New Bus Stand Katra. Ph 232303, 233318	250 – 350
5	Shanker Guest House	23 rooms	New Bus Stand Katra. Ph 233162, 234662	250 – 350
6	Panchvati Guest House	8 rooms	Jammu – Katra Road Ph. 233050,	200 – 300
7	Amar Guest house	14 rooms	Main Bazar Katra Ph. 232046, Fax. 233163	150 – 250
8	Shan Guest House	20 rooms	Jammu Road Ph. 233165	400 – 600
9	Vijay Guest House	17 rooms	New Bus Stand Katra. Ph 233975	150 – 450
10	Chinar Guest House	22 rooms	Jammu – Katra Road Ph. 232175,234409	150 – 250
11	Sharan Guest House	10 rooms	Jammu – Katra Road Ph. 233034	200 – 300

LIST AND TARIFF OF HOTELS IN PATNITOP

Sr. No.	Name of Hotel	Rooms	Location with Tele No.	Room Tariff in Rs. (2007-08)
				Room Tariff on E.P	Extra Bed
1	JKTDC Huts	12 Huts	TRC Jammu [For Booking] Ph. 0191 – 2549065, 2579554, 25615113 Patnitop Ph. 01992 – 287550	2200 – 3500
2	JKTDC Tourist Bungalow	30 rooms	TRC Jammu [For Booking] Ph.0191 – 2549065, 2579554,25615113 Patnitop Ph. 01992 – 287550	700 – 800
3	JKTDC Huts / Bungalow Sannasar	04 Huts	TRC Jammu [For Booking] Ph. 0191 – 2549065, 2579554,25615113 Patnitop Ph. 01992 – 287550	400 – 1000
4	Hotel New Broadway	25 rooms 2 Dormitories	Kasal Morh Patnitop, Jammu Ph .09419162799, 09906156048	1290 90 / Head in Dormitory
5	Hotel Dogra Residency	12 rooms	Kasal Morh Patnitop, Udhampur Ph .01992 – 287575, 09419192706	790 – 1490	200
6	Hotel Kassal Inn	9 rooms	Kasal Morh Patnitop, Ph .01992 – 287504, 9419157801	1400 – 2090	200
7	Maharaja Resort	14 rooms	Podara Enclave Patnitop, Ph. 9419181642,9419106959 E-mail: maharajaresort@rediffmail.com	2190 – 3600 M Suite 5100	350
8	Hotal Jai Skahan	24 rooms	Poonch House Patnitop. Ph .01992 – 288102, 9419163156	800 – 1000	200
9	Hotel Himalya View	20 rooms	Kasal Morh Patnitop, Udhampur Ph .09906378355, 09419796584	600 – 1290 Suite 2000	300
10	Shankar Hotel	17 rooms	Main Bazar Kud Patnitop. Ph. 01992- 288128.	1200 –1800	150
11	Hotel Forest View	24 rooms	National Highway, Near Nag Mandir Patnitop, Ph. 01992- 287567, 9419163002	1690 – 3050 Suite 4900	200
13	Hotel Jai Shree	29 rooms	Podara Enclave Patnitop, Ph. 01992 – 287610 , 09906034567	1800 – 2600 Suite 3000	300
14	Hotel Samson	37 rooms	Patnitop, Ph. 01992 – 287536, 287537	1590 – 2790
15	Vardhan Resorts	30 rooms	Podara Enclave Patnitop, Ph. 01992 – 287525, 287526 www.patnitop.net	1750 – 2200 Studio(03 Pax) 2650	495
16	Shiva International Cottage	8 rooms	Podara Enclave Patnitop, Ph. 01992 – 287523, 9419185731	1290 – 1890 Full Set 4190 (03 rooms + Dining Hall)
17	Hotel Subash Palace	25 rooms	National Highway, Near Taxi Stand Patnitop, Ph. 01992- 287516, 287600, 287555	GIT 1300, DLX 1150 – 1690 Suite 30 50	250
18	Asia The Oasis Resort	32 rooms	Asia The Oasis Resort Patnitop Ph. 01992- 288204, 09906082376	1295 – 1595	250
19	Hotel Holiday Inn	29 rooms	Patnitop Ph. 01992- 287570, 09419163001 www. holidayinn.co.in	2490 – 3990	400
20	Hotel Green Top	38 rooms	Podara Enclave Patnitop, Ph. 01992 – 287519,287581. Fax. 287529	1890 onwards

LIST OF SHRINE BOARDS AND THEIR ADDRESS WITH CONTACT NO.

Shahdara Sharief
Rajouri.
Ph. No. 01962 – 250006
Mob. 94191 71697

Shri Amarnath Shrine Board
Raj Bhawan. Srinagar (May – Oct.)
Ph. No. 0194 – 2501616, 2501819,2501313
Tele Fax. 0194 – 2501414
Raj Bhawan. Jammu (Nov – Apr.)
Ph. No. 0191 – 2542980, 2542902
Tele Fax. 0191 – 2544870

Website: www.shriamarnathjishrine.com
E mail: ceo@shriamarnathjishrine.com

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board
Katra, J&K – 182301
Ph. No. 01991 – 232820, 232238,232376
Fax. 01991 – 2322089,234570

Website:www.maavaishnodevi.org
E mail: helpdesk@ maavaishnodevi.org & admin@maavaishnodevi.org

Office of Dy. Manager , (Enquires and Reservations)
Ph. No. 01991 – 232887, 232025,234053.

Office of Dy. Divisional Manager , (Vaishnovi Dham, Jammu)
Ph. No. 0191 – 2473270, 2473275.

Office of Senior Manager , Bhawan
Ph. No. 01991 – 232223

Office of Incharge , Sanjichatt
Ph. No. 01991 – 232237

AIR

Kashmir

Srinagar now has an International Airport. All major airlines operate regular daily flights to here from New Delhi and other major cities in India. Srinagar Airport is 14 kms from the city centre.

Ladakh

Indian Airlines and Jet Airways operate regular flights to Leh from Delhi and weekly services to Srinagar & Jammu and also to Chandigarh (twice weekly). Leh airport is 6 kms. away from the city centre.

Jammu

Jammu airport is 8 kms from the city centre. Indian Airlines, Jet Airways, Kingfishers and other major airlines operate scheduled services between Jammu & Delhi and Jammu & Srinagar/Leh.

Travel Reservation

Indian Airlines; Tourist Reception Centre, Vir Marg, Tel: 531582, 542735, Airport Office: Tel: 431433, 430449

Jet Airways: Hotel K.C. Residency, Tel: 574312, 574315, Fax 573399 Airport Office, Tel: 453666, 453999 and 453888

Travel - Goa

2011-08-18T09:09:00.000-07:00

Goa in brief

Variously known as "Pearl of the Orient" and a "Tourist Paradise", the state of Goa is located on the western coast of India in the coastal belt known as Konkan.

The magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendours of its temples, churches and old houses have made Goa a firm favourite with travellers around the world.

But then, Goa is much more than just beaches and sea. It has a soul which goes deep into unique history, rich culture and some of the prettiest natural scenery that India has to offer.

Much of the real Goa is in its interiors, both inside its buildings and in the hinterland away from the coastal area.

Legends from Hindu mythology credit Lord Parshuram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu with the creation of Goa.

Over the centuries various dynasties have ruled Goa. Rashtrakutas, Kadambas, Silaharas, Chalukyas, Bahamani Muslims and most famously the Portuguese have been rulers of Goa.

Goa was liberated by the Indian Army from Portuguese colonisation on December 19, 1961 and became an Union Territory along with the enclaves of Daman and Diu. On May 30, 1987 Goa was conferred statehood and became the 25th state of the Indian Republic.

Having been the meeting point of races, religions and cultures of East and West over the centuries, Goa has a multi-hued and distinctive lifestyle quite different from the rest of India. Hindu and Catholic communities make up almost the entire population with minority representation of Muslims and other religions.

All the communities have mutual respect towards one another and their secular outlook has given Goa a long and an unbroken tradition of religious harmony. The warm and tolerant nature of the Goans allows them to celebrate and enjoy the festivals of various religions such as Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali, Christmas, Easter and Id with equal enthusiasm.

The state of Maharashtra borders Goa on the north, the state of Karnataka on the south and east. The vast expanse of the Arabian Sea on the west forms the magnificent coastline for which Goa is justly famous.

Terekhol (Tiracol), Mandovi, Zuari, Chapora, Sal and Talpona are the main rivers which weave their way throughout the state forming the inland waterways adding beauty and romance to the land besides being used to transport Goa's main export commodity of Iron and Manganese ore to Mormugao Harbour. Along the way to the coast these waterways form estuaries, creeks and bays breaking the sandy, palm-fringed coastline behind which lie the fishing villages among the coconut groves.

Panaji (Panjim) is the state capital located on the banks of the Mandovi river and Vasco, Margao, Mapusa and Ponda are the other major towns. Goa is serviced by an international/national airport located at Dabolim near Vasco. An intra-state and inter-state bus network also plays an important role in getting locals and visitors alike in and around Goa.

The vast green expanse of the Sahyadri mountain range ensures that Goa has an abundance of water. The sea and rivers abound in seafood - prawns, mackerels, sardines, crabs and lobsters are the most popular with the locals and the visitors.

Along with English which is widely spoken all over Goa, Konkani and Marathi are the state languages. The national language Hindi is also well understood in most areas around the state.

Goan cuisine is a blend of different influences the Goans had to endure during the centuries. The staple food in Goa is fish and rice, both among the Hindus and the Catholics. Unlike the Christian food the Hindu Goan food is not strongly influenced by the Portuguese cuisine.

Since the arrival of the Hippies in the sixties, Goa has been a major destination on the itinerary of international and domestic tourists.

The tourist season in Goa begins in late September and carries on through early March. The weather in these months is usually dry and pleasantly cool.

Then the weather gets fairly hot around May and by end of June, Goa receives the full blast of the Indian monsoon with sudden downpours and tropical thunderstorms. However it is also during the monsoon that Goa is probably at its most beautiful, with greenery sprouting all around.

Besides the natural beauty, the fabulous beaches and sunshine, travellers to Goa love the laid-back, peaceful, warm and friendly nature of the Goan people. After all, more than anywhere else on planet earth, this is a place where people really know how to relax.

Goan Cuisine

The Real Taste of Goa

Visitors to Goa tend to think that food and drink in Goa means the famous fish, curry, rice and feni package. And for most Goans these are indeed the three basic necessities of life -- fish, curry and rice.

They combine to make a heavenly daily meal for the average Goan. But Goan cuisine, like the land itself, has many flavours and tastes with its vast treasure trove of culinary delicacies.

The long period of Portuguese rule, besides that of the Muslim and Hindu kingdoms, has left an indelible influence on the original style of Goan cooking and this has led to an exotic mix of truly tasty and spicy cuisine. Most people who sample Goan cuisine, enjoy this different and unique style of food which has a distinct and unique combination of spicy flavours.

A Goan values his food as much as he does his daily siesta (break). And in his daily meal, seafood always has a pride of place is some form or the other. From fried fish to exotic concoctions like ambot-tik, sea food is usually a must on the menu, except for the occasional break for some religious observance.

Goans take pleasure not only in what they eat, but also how they cook it. Although modern conveniences have almost completely taken over in urban areas, the traditional way of cooking in clay pots on firewood continues in most rural areas of Goa. This style of cooking adds an additional smoky flavour to the food, highly valued by Goans.

Despite the two schools of cuisine traditions influenced by the respective religions of Hinduism and Christianity; there are some meeting points that present an interesting harmony. This blend of various cooking styles and influences is what makes Goan food so unique among the cuisines of India.

With a wide variety ranging from prawns to sausages, chicken to beef, and numerous vegetarian dishes, Goan cuisine is able to satisfy even the most finicky gourmet appetites. Goa has some magnificent culinary delicacies like the prawn balchão and sorpotel which have become famous around the world.

While Hindu Goan food does not seem to have picked up any major Portuguese influence, the Christian food has been influenced not only by the Portuguese, but also by its overseas colonies. Traditional Goan cooking calls for plenty of muscle and time. Grinding is always part of the recipe and the nicer the dish the longer it takes to make.

Goan food is simple but most, though not all, of it is chili hot, spicy, and pungent. Items made from rice, fish, and coconut abound in nearly every Goan meal.

Seafood such as prawns, lobsters, crabs, pomfrets, clams, ladyfish, mussels, and oysters are used to make a variety of curries, fries, soups and pickles. Besides fresh seafood, dried and salted fish dishes are also highly prized by Goans.

In this section we provide a selection of Goa's famous dishes with detailed descriptions of ingredients and cooking methods so you can reproduce the exotic flavor of the dishes in your very own kitchen.

So here is a taste of Goa and if you are travelling to Goa don't forget to pack a healthy appetite.

Destinations - Beaches

Sun, Sand, Surf and the Sea

105 kms of Konkan coast stretches across the state of Goa providing a wide range of choice in beaches to suit everybody's needs. There are unspoilt pristine streches of sand for the solitude seeker and there are those ones jammed with people in every square feet of sand.

There are beaches far from human habitation with very basic or sometimes no facility for accommodation. Then there are some with ultra modern comforts like internet cafes, massage centers, gyms, swimming pools, night clubs, etc. With such an enormous choice, one might feel confused about which one to take.

But on the contrary, it's quite easy to plan an itinerary for getting suntan allover the body. Taking the capital Panaji and the next major city Margao as base points, all the beaches can be visited in a stretch. North from Panaji lies the most famous beach of Calangute.

From here onwards to the northern tip of the state, swaying palms and shimmering sands stretch giving an enchanting sight. The further north, the emptier the beaches become. The same can be said about the silvery sands, which stretch down southwards from Margao. Right from Colva, the famous silvery white sand beach, there is an uninterrupted continuity in beaches. The more you move south the lonelier the beaches are.

North Goa Circuit:

This stretch begins from the headland of Fort Aguada just outside Panaji city and moves up north towards the border to Maharashtra. Right from the Fort Aguada Beach Resort, an interrupted stretch of sand lies awaiting tourists, sunbathers and party animals.

Sinquerim, Candolim, Calangute, Baga, Anjuna, Vagator, Morjim and Arambol are the beaches that can be covered in the North Goa Circuit.

South Goa Circuit:

Another major base to begin the beach conquest is from Margao, the second most important city in Goa. This railway junction connects Goa to all major cities in the coastline like Mumbai, Mangalore and Kochi.

Beginning from Majorda beach, a 20 kms long silvery white sand stretches across till the headland of Cabo de Rama.

Velsao, Majorda, Betalbatim, Colva, Benaulim, Varca, Cavelossim, Mobor and Betul beaches are all interconnected

The Magnificent Symbols of Christianity

One of Goa's important institutions, Goa's famous and magnificent churches are largely a legacy of Portuguese colonization

Church building was one of the main occupations of the early Portuguese and in fact one of Vasco da Gama's main missions for finding the sea route to India was to "seek Christians and spices".

Christianity was forced upon with religious fervor by the Portuguese during the period of the "Inquisition" with wide scale destruction of temples and this continued till the official end of the "Inquisition" in Goa in 1812. Most of Goa's churches were built on the very site of former temples. The confiscated lands of the temples were handed over to the church and the communidades. In fact, the first Hindu temple allowed to be constructed by the Portuguese in 300 years was in 1818 at Panaji.

With a significant population of Goans being Christians for many generations today, the Church is an important factor in Goa's social , cultural and religious life. For example, the contribution of the Church to education in Goa is immense. Today the churches are all part of the Archdiocese of Goa and function with its help, many are also protected sites.

The architecture of Goa's churches has undergone notable changes with the passage of time and the fashion of the era that they were built in.

The church architecture can be broadly broken down to the following periods

The Early period - From 1510 - 1550 AD

The oldest surviving Church in Goa today is the Church of Our Lady of Rosary on Monte Santo, Old Goa. Built on the site of Alfonso de Albuquerque's hill of Victory soon after he conquered Goa in 1510. The style of Churches during this time period is termed as "Manueline" after King Emmanuel of Portugal.

This style is an amalgamation of Gothic and Renaissance and is a style peculiar to Portugal of that time. The decorative motifs of this style centered on Portuguese dominance of seamanship and included cables and anchors with seashells etc.

This type of construction was largely not suited for Goa's weather and a number of these Churches were subsequently rebuilt or remodeled and only one or two survives to this day. This was the period that saw wide spread destruction of Hindu temples with new Churches constructed on their sites.

Some notable churches of this era include the Church at the Cabo near Panaji and the Church on the Island of Divar off the coast of Old Goa. Most others are in ruins, especially in Old Goa.

The Baroque period - From 1550 - 1660 AD

This period coincides with the Renaissance period in Europe and also coincides with the period of "Golden Goa" and the influx of Missionaries to Goa including St Francis Xavier. Church building during this time reached a fever pitch with styles and plans that are totally European.

The great churches of Old Goa including the Basilica of Bom Jesus and the Se Cathedral, and the Church of St Cajetan and the largest of them all, the Augustine Church of Our Lady of Grace, now in ruins, belong to this time period and style.

The other notable churches outside of Old Goa built in this period include the Rachol Seminary, and the then newly rebuilt Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, at Panaji. The architecture of this period being a mixture of Tuscan, Doric, Ionic and Corinthian styles.

The Indian baroque period - From 1660 - 1760 AD

The churches of this period represent the local contribution to church building in terms of style and design. The most important being the design of the outer facade and the ceiling with inclusion of flowers, tropical motifs etc.

The prominent churches of this period include the Church of St Francis of Assisi at Old Goa, The Church of Holy Spirit at Margao and the Church of St Ana at Talaulim and The Church of Our Lady of Compassion at Divar.

The Rococo period - From 1760 - 1899 AD

The churches of this period are characterized by their rather small size but with an accent on exquisite and ornate finishing on the inside with local motifs and paintings. Another element was the use of Stucco on the exterior facade. The style reflected to a large extent the relaxation of the religious fervor of the Portuguese . This was also the period of the New Conquests. One of the classical examples of this style is the Church of St. Stephen's at San Estevan near Panaji. Others include the Church of Our Lady of Immaculate conception at Moira, the Church of St Alex at Calangute and the Church of Our Lady of Rosary at Margao.

The modern period - From 1900 onwards

This period dates from the early nineteenth century onwards. There is a multitude of different styles and represents the freeing of the rigid structure of the past. Some examples include the Church of Nossa Senhora at Saligao built in the gothic style.

Most of the churches are functioning institutions and can be seen and prayed in. Most are revered by both Hindus and Christians alike because of their past.

Temples in Goa

The temples of Goa are in essence like most Hindu temples in India, based around a deity which is worshipped. The architecture of Goan temples is a little different mostly because of historical reasons.

The basic Hindu temple architecture

The fundamental design of any Hindu temple is organized around the central shrine or the "Garbagriha" or the "sanctum sanctorum" that houses the main deity. A tower or "Shikara" arises from the main shrine and is traditionally pyramidal shaped. There are usually two or more smaller shrines housing other deities known as "Parivar Devatas" around the entrance to the Garbagriha.

There is always a surrounding free area or a passage around the Garbagriha that is kept free for a an essential Puja ritual known as "Pradakshina" performed by almost every devotee. This is the ritualistic left sided circum-ambulation around the shrine usually an odd number of times.

The "Garbagriha" is accessed via a large hall with pillars and walls either carved with religious motifs or scenes from the mythology pertaining to the deity. This hall is usually known as the "Mandapa".

The "Mandapa" opens to the outer courtyard or "Prakara" where usually a statue of a mythical animal or Vehicle of the deity is placed. There may also be a sacred plant the "Tulsi" or one of the sacred trees usually either a Pepul or a Banyan tree with some small artifacts or statues of more deities at its base.

The courtyard also might open into a large water tank or the side of a river or stream or "Tirthastan". This is where devotees take their ritualistic cleansing bath before entering the temple on festival or auspicious days.

The courtyard sometimes also is common to the residence of the head priest and also other halls where devotees stay commonly known as "Dharmasalas" and sometimes perform ceremonies like marriages and thread ceremonies.

The Goan Hindu Temple architecture

The Goan modification lies in the assimilation of local building traditions into this rigid architectural style giving it a special local flavor. One of the special features of Goan temples is the Lamp Tower or "Deepmal" or the "Deepa Stambha" rising anywhere from two to six storied high. This is said to be a Maratha influence.

On festival days the "Deepmal" or the "Deepa Stambha" or the Lamp tower is decorated with hundreds of oil lamps and the effect is spectacular.

Another distinctive feature of a traditional Goan temple is the the Dome that covers the main shrine instead of the traditional Shikara . This is said to have been a muslim or Mughal architectural influence. See an example below.

Another muslim or Mughal influence is said to be the "Naubat Khana" or the small tower over the entrance to the courtyard where the temple drummer sits and beats the drum to the music of religious hymns especially on auspicious days.

The curvilinear roofs of the Mandapa is said to be of Christian / Portuguese architectural influence. See some examples below.

The oldest temple in Goa is said to be the rock cut caves at Aravalem known as "Pandava Caves" dedicated to Lord Shiva and dating back to the 1st century AD.

A classical example of the other oldest pre-Portuguese era temple is the Temple of Shiva at Tambdi Surla dating back to the Kadamba period circa 13-14th century AD. It is the only temple of its period in existence because all of the rest were destroyed by the subsequent Muslim and Portuguese onslaught.

Temples in Goa under Portuguese rule

Goan temples today are more modern as compared to most of India's ancient temples, mostly because these are second homes to most deities that were re-established outside of Portuguese controlled areas during the early days of Portuguese invasion and the dreaded Inquisition.

The edict of 1540 gave the Portuguese Viceroy the authority to destroy all Hindu temples and shrines within the area of Portuguese control, "not leaving a single one on any of the islands" He was also ordered to confiscate temple estates for the maintenance of churches that were ordered to be built on their sites. This was meticulously carried out by many loyalists including the famous "Temple destroyer" Diogo Rodriguez, buried at Rachol. In the areas under the Old Conquests, all traces of any temples have vanished without a trace. They even forbade Hindus to cross the border to worship at shrines and temples outside of their areas.

The first temple to be approved for construction by the Portuguese in their 300+ years of control was the Mahalaxmi temple in Panaji, approved in 1818 after bitter opposition.

A Glimpse into Goa of the Past

Four centuries of Portuguese rule and that of other rulers before them has given Goa an unique life-style that consists of a blend of Indian and Western influences as can be seen in its varied culture and architecture of its towns and villages. Today Goa also boasts of glorious traditions that have been handed down to it over the ages.

Dedicated to the preservation of art, culture and enviroment and inorder to preserve Goa's past and its rich traditions this magnificent project named "Ancestral Goa" is the result of a lot of meticulous research, planning and hardwork. It opened to the public in April 1995.

Ancestral Goa is miniature Goan Village as it would have existed 100 years ago. It is located on a nine acre verdant hillock at Loutulim ins South Goa, about ten kilometers from Margao.

Graceful swans charm the entrance to the reception. Elephants carrying flowered pillars with multi-hued and decorated beams deck the entryway.

A spacious room redolent of the Goan - Portuguese aura replete with a palanquin, sepia-toned photographs, domed lamps and a designed marble floor feeds one the anticipation of a moment when a whole treasure in the book of history will unfold. The traditional 'aarti' is performed as part of the greeted welcome by a sari-clad goan girl.

An incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Parashuram shot the legendary arrow into the bosom of the Indian Ocean resulting in the emotive paradise known as Goa. The visitor is treated to a sight of Parashuram at the entrance itself, all ready with the proverbial bow & arrow.

One step out of the high- ceilinged entrance, sporting a "punkah" and one moves into a landscape spread over a gently rolling hill where laterite steps lead to "Demo" (the caretaker of the landlord's property).

The Ancestral Goa project, the brainchild of Goan artist, Maendra J. Alvares who has used his family's ancestral property to keep Goa's culture alive and is a place worth visiting as any lay visitor can get a glimpse of Goa in its original grandeur and authentic form.

This place also gives visitors a glance of a sight other than beaches, churches and temples which Goa is famous for and imparts a culture based education about the roots and heritage of Goa. Ancestral Goa is included as one of the sight seeing spots by Goa Tourism Development Corporation's buses in their cultural tour package.

Local feasts and festivals are celebrated with traditionsl style and fervour. A visit to Ancestral Goa on any of the feast days, allows for a pure experience of Goan customs and lifestyles. The Eat-out offers a menu full of traditional Goan Specialties. Local vegetables, fish and sweets are treats to be indulged in.

Visiting hours are 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.

Sentinels of the Past

Compared to Indian standards, Goan forts are very small in size. Nonetheless, these are historic specimen of immense military, political and economic importance in a land crisscrossed by rivers and canals and bordered by sea on the west. The old monuments, now in ruins are mute testimony to the joys and sorrows, and colourful and dark events of a bygone era.

Some are awesome in sheer size like the Ruins of the St. Augustine's Tower, while others are marvellous pieces of architecture, such as the Gate of the Adil Shah's Palace at Old Goa.

There are quite a few old Portuguese forts dotted around Goa, most of them on the coast. Most of them are in reasonable state of preservation and are worth a visit if you have the time.

Goa has several imposing forts, though most of them lie in ruins today. One marvels at the massive effort which was involved when the huge laterite stones were lifted to the top of inaccessible hills, to erect the forts.

Sans cement, steel or mortar, the giant walls have stood the vagaries of nature for centuries, and would have gone on to last for several centuries more were they to be looked after properly.

The Portuguese found the need to raise the fortresses at several strategic points facing the river mouths to defend their new acquisitions in the East. Of course, they also acquired forts built by the neighbouring chieftains, when the latter's lands were annexed by the Conquistadores. However, once the defence priorities receded, the forts too were abandoned by the Portuguese

Safa Masjid

One of the only two sixteenth-century Islamic monuments which managed to survive the excesses of the Inquisition, the Safa Masjid lies 2 km west of the centre of the town of Ponda, in a district known as Shahpur. The elegant structure was built in 1560 by Ibrahim Adil Shah, the Sultan of Bijapur.

The mosque was the focus of attention in a fairly extensive complex of gardens and fountains which lies in ruins today. The rectangular prayer hall of the mosque rests above a high base and is capped with a pointed terracota tile roof.

There are elegant Islamic arches decorating the walls. Remnants of octagonal pillars can be seen all around the mosque, perhaps these supported a covered courtyard to provide shade to worshippers.

There is a is well-constructed water tank with small chambers with 'meharab' designs nearby which is located to the south of the prayer hall unlike most mosques where it is located outside the main entrance.

This has led to speculation that the tank may have been part of another religious structure which once stood there. Local legend also has it that there are hidden tunnels in the walls of the tank which connect it to a nearby water reservoir.

This mosque is a venue of celebration during festivals of Id-Ul-Fitr and Id-Ul-Zuha, by the local Muslim community. There are rickshaws available at the main Ponda bus stand which can take you to the site of the Safa Masjid.

Namazgah

This mosque is located in the Ponda area through the attractive countryside a further 2 or 3 km from the Safa Masjid.

This is one of the areas of great natural wealth laden ore-barges, seen chugging down river on their way to Vasco, are filled with ore from here. Viewed from the height from Bicholim is spread out below and in the distance are the sivalik mountains with the mines to the left, and behind.

A short distance to the right there is a small structure set on the crest of a bleak hillside. This is Namazgah mosque, an interesting diversion to see a tiny remnant of Muslim history this mosque was built by Prince Akbar, to commemorate a battle which he and the Marathas, led by Sambhaji, fought against the Portuguese in 1683.

It was an unlikely alliance which came about after Prince Akbar had rebelled against is father the Emperor. High above Bicholim on this bare hillside with extensive views to the east, the mosque is of most unusual design and interesting layout.

Christian Art Museum, Old Goa

The Christian Art Museum, the first and only one of its kind in Asia, was earlier located at the famous Rachol Seminary at Rachol near the town on Margao. However its relatively remote location had prevented it from being a popular destination for the tourists.

The museum which has enriched cultural heritage and history of Goa was originally set up in 1994 with technical and financial assistance from Calouste Gulbentian foundation of Portugal and the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) New Delhi.

This fabulous museum is now relocated within the precincts of the convent of Santa Monica, Old Goa, in the vicinity of the Old Goa world heritage monuments.

The museum houses some of the best specimens of Goa´s distinctive and exquisitely crafted church art. In the early days of Portuguese colonization, most statues to be installed in churches were brought by ship from Portugal.

These were supplemented by images, furnishings and decorations crafted by local Hindu artisans who were roped in to keep up with the demand as church building activity of the Portuguese accelerated.

The ground floor of the museum has an area of 350 sq. mts. It also has an upper floor gallery with an area of 150 sq. mts. The museum has in its collection beautiful artifacts like the Pelican monstrance based on the legend that in times of famine, the mother pelican plucks open her breast and feeds her young on her own blood. The artistic iconography explicitly suggests that the holy sacrament is the food for man's salvation.

The collection also includes rosaries and other items made of gold and precious stone. St. Francis Xavier a popular theme is shown in silver plaques and on the panels of a silver casket. Image crowns and other rituals objects were also made in silver.

The museum also possesses some beautiful ivory images. The Good Shepherd depicts Jesus as an allegorical shepherd watching his flock. He sits in a pensive posture on an elaborately carved rocky mountain.

Beneath him are frolicking lambs, a fountain and St Mary Magdalene lies in the front grotto, in what is described as a pose of Indian influence, studying the scriptures.

The museum is open everyday from 9.30 am to 5 pm.

Legacy of The Past

One legacy of the long period of Portuguese colonization which is still quite in evidence and in everyday use is the magnificent architecture of the traditional mansions of the Goan gentry. Goa can perhaps claim to be the only place on the subcontinent where houses dating back to the 1700s are still in pristine condition and still inhabited by generations of the original owners.

Unlike the other colonial powers in India, the Portuguese managed to leave a much more visible mark on the residential architecture of the area they ruled. The British and the French left their mark on the architecture of huge buildings such as assemblies and railway stations which have since become landmarks of the period.

The Portuguese in Goa, built residential houses reflecting a style which is hardly found elsewhere on the Indian subcontinent. These magnificent palatial houses inspired by European architectural style are still found in Goa today, although they are confined to the rural areas such as Chandor and Loutolim. An exception is the commercial town of Margao, which still has some fabulous houses in its Borda area.

These mansions were built in an era which saw the Portuguese raking in a handsome profit from their trading colonies in Africa and South America. Interestingly, the owners were not usually Portuguese noblemen, but wealthy Goan merchants and high-ranking officials who were granted land by the Portuguese.

The materials and techniques for the construction of such houses was usually local while the furnishings and decorations came from all around the world. The walls and pillars were built of red laterite stone and local wood while the roof was overlai with terracotta roof tiles from Mangalore. Inside there was fine porcelain from China and Macau, cut glass and mirrors from Venice, chandeliers from Belgium and tapestries from Portugal. The exquisite furniture was carved from rosewood by the local craftsmen.

The exterior facade of these mansions is not the only thing that attracts the visitors. The interiors are much more impressive, with some houses even having their own mini-chapels and dance rooms. There are long, well-preserved dining and drawing rooms usually with a magnificent collection of blue china ceramics and glass items.

Most such houses are accessible only on special request or appointment either directly from the owner or through the nearest Tourist Office. It is also advisable to seek such an appointment well in advance and it is customary to make a small donation which helps towards the upkeep and maintenance of these superb specimens of a bygone era.

In this section, you can find some of the more famous of the Portuguese style mansions which can be visited to have a glimpse of the lifestyle of the higher echelons of Goan society under the Portuguese rule.

Salvador Costa mansion - This mansion in Loutolim, a South Goa village is famous for the many large and beautiful houses spread out in a radius of about 1 km from the nucleus of the village. The Costa mansion was built in the 19th century by two wealthy siblings and priests, Padre Pedrinho and Padre Laurence. Built in the Indian style (low pitched tiled roof, wide verandas) with European accouterments (Gothic- style windows, cluster columns), it's architecture straddles both worlds just as Goa still does.

Solar dos Colacos mansion - is at Ribandar on the left bank of the River Mandovi, mid-way between Old Goa and Panjim. It is built in baroque style with an imposing facade with a spectacular view of islands and the historical churches of Old Goa. It is, probably, the only Goan mansion that faces the river. Typical of the ambivalence of the times, Nazario Colaco II carved a sideboard of his dining room with scenes from the Ramayana. But this is counterbalanced by the strident Catholicism of the family's private chapel.

Pinto de Rosario mansion - in Porvorim, half-way between Panjim and Mapusa, reflects more the joy of possession than reverence for style. Piled up in side-boards and cup- boards are rare pieces of cut-glass, silver, blue china, ivory. The objets d'art are yet to be categorised and dated. But the sheer quantity and doubtless quality of most of the items are quite simply astounding.in Porvorim has Indo-Portuguese furniture and European and Chinese knick- knacks. The Italian floor tiling is the highlight of the parlour. Above the exquisitely carved sofa is a Dutch tapestry, a replica of Rembrandt's Night Watch. The love- chair is said to be 200 years old.

Mascarenhas mansion - in Anjuna, north Goa, is classic due to its characteristic 'balcoes'(balconies). It is monumental. The riches overpower you. The seat along the length of the porch are L-shaped, of expensive wood, the glare is cut off with a mixture of brightly coloured stained glass and, as if to contrast it, light tinted flint glass "such as which is no longer made" with fine floral etchings.

Voddlem Ghor, Chandor - Built even before the arrival of the Portuguese, the house of Sara Fernandes is an imposing structure in the tranquil village of Chandor. Four decades after the ouster of the European rulers, the' Voddlem Ghor' or 'Casa Grande' has been recently declared as a ' heritage house'. click for more...

Vivian Coutinho mansion - in Fatorda at the entrance of Margao reveals the care that went into the planning of the entrance of a house. The Coutinhos had a well kept garden, the green pleasantly contrasting the red of the masonry seats. They broke the monotony of the red wash and the outer wall, interspersing decorative tiles.

Colaco mansion - The corridor runs along the front facade and faces the Mandovi river. This is the only extant Goan mansion that faces the waterfront. The walls are washed in ox-blood colour, one of the three traditional colours of Goan exteriors, the other being white (very Portuguese) and indigo (very Indian).

Palacio do Deao - This 213 years old mansion was built by a Portuguese noble man, who was the Dean of the Church, and founder of Quepem town. The house faces the Church he built and is on the banks of the wildly beautiful Kushavati River. It is built in an unusual style blending elements of Hindu and Portuguese architecture. The lush gardens which have managed to preserve their historical features and have, since old times, been known as the most beautiful pleasure gardens in Goa.

Dudhsagar Waterfall

The magnificent Dudhsagar Waterfall is perched in the high peaks of the Western Ghats and is a sight to behold especially in the monsoons when it is in full and furious flow. From a distance, the waterfall appears like streams of milk rushing down the mountainside. The exhuberent and spectacular waterfall is located in the Sanguem taluka.

Measuring a mighty 600m from head to foot, this waterfall on the Goa-Karnataka border, attracts a steady stream of visitors from the coast into the rugged Western Ghats. After pouring across the Deccan plateau, the headwaters of the Mandovi River form a foaming torrent that splits into three streams to cascade down a near-vertical cliff face into a deep green pool.

The Konkani name for the falls, which literally translated means "sea of milk", derives from clouds of milky foam which rises up at the bottom of the falls. Dudhsagar is set amidst breathtaking scenery overlooking a steep, crescent-shaped head of a valley carpeted with pristine tropical forest, that is only accessible on foot or by train.

Like most places in Goa, the Dudhsagar waterfall too has a legend attached to its name. The legend tells the story of this powerful and wealthy king who ruled a kingdom in the Western Ghats. His lavish and opulent palace in the hills was surrounded by vast gardens which were full of deers and gazelles.

The King had a beautiful daughter, who used to enjoy taking a bath during the hot summers, in the picturesque lake near the forest on the edge of the King's palace grounds. It was her habit to finish her bath and have a jugful of sugared milk in a jug made of pure gold.

One day when she was finishing her usual jug of milk she found herself being watched by a handsome prince standing amongst the trees. Embarassed by her inadequate bathing attire, the resourceful Princess poured the sugared milk in front of her to form an improvised curtain to hide her body, while one of the maids rushed to cover her with a dress.

Thus was the legend born. The sugared milk (dudh) poured down the mountainside and continued to flow in torrents as a tribute to the everlasting virtue and modesty of the Princess of the Ghats. The Dudh Sagar (Sea of Milk) continues to flow to this day and attracts thousands of visitors to one of the most popular and famous tourist spots in the state of Goa.

A number of private operators offer special trips to the Waterfalls and the tours operated by GTDC (Goa Tourism Development Corpn) also have Dudhsagar Waterfalls as one of the tour stops.

The falls can also be reached by a train journey from Vasco or Margao. At Collem, in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary near Mollem, there is a railway station where the train stops to pick up passengers for the journey to the waterfalls. There are two trains a day that stop at Dudhsagar Station and it's possible to catch a morning train up and spend several hours at the falls before taking an afternoon train back.

Near the top of the falls, the railway line from Vasco to Londa crosses the mountainside, with excellent views from the train. There also a couple of pools that you can swim in, making Dudhsagar a great place for a day full of fun and frolic. The alternate way of reaching the falls is only advisable between January and May, when the level of the water in the rivers abates enough to permit jeeps to approach the base of the falls.

Entertainment & Recreation

Although Goa was made famous for its encouraging attitude towards doing nothing more than lounge by the beach, it's startling just how much else there is to do.

Whether it's at the break of the dawn or dusk, midnight or noon, there is no end of fun and frolic in Goa. The state is plushed with variety of options for the amusement of tourists. If one is longing for a drink check out the pubs and bars situated at all the beach sides and major cities. Or just hangout at the local shacks on the beach any time of the day and enjoy the oceanic panorama.

Those who want to boogie in style, then Goa is a bliss for nightclubs and discothèques. Goa is also home to a number of Casinos and also to Caravela - the only offshore casino located on a ship in India.

A popular alternative to watching the sunset from a beach bar - at least for most Indian tourists - is an evening River Cruise along the Mandovi from Panjim. Snacks and drinks are available, and the price includes a display of Konkani and Portuguese dance accompanied by folk singers in traditional Goan costume, and sometimes a live Hindi cover band.

Nightlife in Goa is exciting and there are many ways to liven up the evening. Goans enjoy going out and it is not unusual to find families out for a night of merriment.

In certain areas, almost every third house has a bar-cum-restaurant. The place may not be anything special, usually just a room in the house that has been opened to the public with a couple of chairs and a table. But the atmosphere is great - totally relaxing and extremely conducive to an enjoyable night out with friends and family.

Most of the places serve exquisite seafood and other Goan delicacies and have well stocked bars. But if you are in the mood to dance to the rhythm of the ocean, get together a group of our friends, some food and drink and hit the beach. You are sure to have a special night - the sand the moon and the pounding waves!

Casinos

The first live-game floating casino in India is located on board the MS Caravela (named after the first Portuguese ship that came to Goa in the 16th century). This is a joint venture between Advani Hotels & Resorts India Ltd and Casinos Austria International.

The MS Caravela is a catamaran, twin-engine vessel and can accomodate 270 passengers with 30 crew members. The Caravela is specially designed to sail the river waters of Goa.

The Caravela is built with fire retardant interiors and houses a lavish restaurant with multi-cultural cuisine, a bar, sundeck and a swimming pool. Two suites and four rooms are also provided for the VIP guests. The plush interiors of the vessel gleam with chandeliers from Italy and fire-resistant rugs from the US. The restaurant on board serves a multi-cultural cuisine.

The decor of The Caravela is very modern with vibrant colours and exudes a relaxing effervescent, congenial atmosphere. Glimpses of Goan culture are visible at the restaurant that sports bright pastel shades.

Everything works in numbers here, and tension is thick amid the clinking of coins and glasses. Money changes hands faster than you can imagine, with the cash registers ringing round the clock. The tables offer American roulette, blackjack, Indian rummy complete with slot machines. The 1000-tonne vessel even has a private gaming room for high-fliers.

Among additional convenience are: acceptance of credit cards, travelers cheques Digital security lockers State-of-the art survelliance system .

The entrance fee for the Dinner Cruises includes meals on board together with soft drinks and beverages along with non negotiable chips.

Access to The Caravela is on a jetty just near the Mandovi Hotel in Panaji. Guests are even picked up from the airport and dropped off either at the cruise ship or at the Renaissance Goa Resort.

Goa has many other casinos, which are mostly in the five star category hotels

Water Sports

Skim the waves. Surf the seas. Float across the skies. The fabulous golden Goan coast is sprinkled with water sports excitements from windsurfing to paragliding.

John Lucas, an Englishman, who first came to Goa in the early 70s like thousands of other westerners on a spiritual journey, found his heaven here in Goa. Being a keen windsurfer, the next time he came back to Goa, he had with him, his board and rig. And the trend for water sports in Goa was set.

Today there are a number of water based sports and activities available in Goa. The best season for enjoying water sports in Goa is from October to May when the skies here are cloudless and blue, and the waters fairly placid.

Windsurfing

Windsurfing is a unique blend of surfing and sailing, which requires the surfer to adjust his strength and balance to the changing patterns of wind and water. To the expert who has honed himself in all these nuances, windsurfing can indeed be an exhilarating experience.

Windsurfing trainers and experts alike claim Dona Paula bay to be the ideal location for the beginners. The prevailing winds and the calm sea, ensure almost lake-like conditions. The morning breeze is light and steady — just right for learners; while stronger winds that set in during the afternoons offer a perfect challenge for the more experienced.

Dinghy Sailing

A pleasant change from windsurfing is dinghy sailing, often referred to as ‘beer and sandwich’ sailing. With the winds in Goa, so gentle most of the time, this particular sport offers its participants much time to relax.

Dinghies are available for hire at the Cidade de Goa and the Taj Holiday Village. Instructors are available for beginners.

These 15-odd feet long crafts hold three to four people comfortably. The Zuari estuary at Dona Paula is an excellent learning area - its calm waters being the kindest Goa has to offer.

With two sails and side decks to sit upon, dinghy sailing is as much fun as windsurfing and it is not necessary to be either agile or youthful to enjoy this form of sailing.

Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is also fast gaining popularity. Underwater visibility in the more tranquil of Goa’s bays and lagoons ranges between five to ten meters.

Although Goa does not have magnificent coral reefs it boasts of myriad schools of fascinating marine life.

Attractive coral heads, lobsters, bright colored fish, and other marine life can be conveniently explored in the shallow waters.

There are even a few wrecks dating to colonial Portuguese and British times for you to explore underwater.

Water Skiing

For the speed-lovers Goa offers the thrills of venturing into the sea on speedboats. The high-class speedboats which are available in some places, can achieve speeds of up to 30-40 miles an hour.

These crafts, which can carry between six to eight people, are available at the Cidade de Goa, Bogmallo Beach Resort, and Taj Hotels. They can be conveniently used for sightseeing as well as water-skiing.

Angling

The beaches of Goa offer a varied and plentiful, almost inexhaustible, supply of seafood, still fairly cheap and absolutely fresh.

The Agonda beach in Canacona, which lies a short distance from the more famous Palolem beach is a popular spot for angling. Soormai, salmon and mullet are frequent catches.

Parasailing

High fliers amongst the speed lovers can opt for parasailing. Both the Taj and Bogmallo Resort hotels provide the necessary equipment for this enthralling sport.

There’s a rope about 300 feet long attached to the parasail harness at one end and to the speedboat at the other.

When the boat speeds off on the water, the parasailor just takes one or two steps and he is lifted into the air, the parasail lifting behind him.

Water Scooter

Water scooters accommodate two people on a ride.

This action sport provides all the thrills of a motorbike with the softness of an ocean instead of hard tar road beneath the feet.

They are readily available at Dona Paula jetty, Cidade de Goa, Majorda, and Candolim beach.

Swimming

The most common water sport is swimming, although it is least mentioned in the media. The waters around the Goan beaches are warm and almost always safe.

Swimming can be enjoyed by the young, the old, the infirm, the affluent and the budget traveller alike. There are life guards at all Goan beaches, so check with them about the status of the sea, before you jump in.

Travel - Mumbai

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Welcome to the city that never sleeps! Pulsating, Alive, On the Move, Vibrant, Fun -- this is Mumbai or as it is still frequently referred to -- Bombay. The most modern city in India, it captures the spirit of the changing pace set by liberalization and modernisation.

Once a cluster of seven islands, Mumbai was presented to King Charles II in 1661 as part of the dowry when he married Princess Catherine de Braganza of Portugal.

Over the years, as colonialism gave way to independence, Mumbai has transformed itself into an entity with thriving markets, business houses and many different communities reflecting a cosmopolitan and trendy atmosphere rarely seen elsewhere. On the surface, it represents the ever-changing face of today's India -- the old coupled with the dynamic new, and yet at its very core, the heart of the city is steeped in Indian customs and values.

It is the capital of Maharashtra state, and its official language is Marathi although English and Hindi are widely spoken and understood. The fast-paced life has given rise to hordes of "fast-food outlets" on almost every road, offering lip-smacking choices of Mumbai's very own pau bhaji, bhel puri and kababs. There is no dearth, though, of multi-culinary delicacies dished out in posh restaurants by expert chefs. Mumbai is a shopper's delight with bargain buys, exclusive boutiques, ethnic markets and mini bazaars. This busy city is also the hub of a thriving cultural life, with a constant stream of performances in music, dance and drama. The seat of the Hindi film industry, known locally as Bollywood, it produces the largest number of films in the world. Mumbai caters to the adventurous and the romantic through its sporting activities, nightclubs, pubs, theatres, beaches and restaurants. Old and new, rich and poor, classical and modern -- its all here for you to savour and enjoy!

Attractions
Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Market (Crawford Market)
A busy market area, this is best visited early on in the day. The fruits and vegetable section offers the best of produce. Depending on when you visit, the fruit/s of the season are always a good buy.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Victoria Terminus)
This is a magnificent building, and considered to be architecturally one of the finest stations in the world. Built by the British in 1888, it has exquisite ornamentation on its facade along with beautifully executed panels and friezes. It holds the statue of Queen Victoria on its dome. More...
Flora Fountain and the Gothic/Victorian buildings of the Fort Area
The Flora Fountain stands on the site of the old church gate of the Bombay Fort, now a major crossroad named Hutatma Chowk. It was erected to honour Sir Bartle Frere, a former governor of Bombay and named after the Greek goddess Flora. Other buildings to see in
the Fountain or Fort area are the University of Mumbai buildings including the imposing Rajabhai Tower, the Mumbai High Court, the Old Secretariat, and the Institute of Science on one end. Close by are situated St Thomas Cathedral, the Asiatic Society of Bombay or Town Hall, the Office of the Director General of Police, the General Post Office and the Thomas Cook building.
The Western Railway Headquarters is also quite near, across the street from the Churchgate Station. These buildings are fine examples of the Gothic and Indo-Saracenic style. Many are illuminated by night. An exotic way of seeing these sights would be by the MTDC open-air bus or by the few surviving Victorias or buggy rides. Close by to Flora Fountain is the Kala Ghoda area which holds a once a week fair (every Sunday) from November to January.
Jehangir Art Gallery
Close by to the Prince of Wales Museum, this gallery is the showcase for contemporary art. The displays change regularly. Outside is the Artist's Plaza with more paintings on display and sale. Open daily from 11 am to 7 pm.
Prince of Wales Museum
This is one of Mumbai's finest example of Victorian architecture. Built to commemorate King George V's visit to Mumbai (while still Prince of Wales), it was designed by George Wittet and completed in 1923. It is
undoubtedly one of India's finest museums and houses treasures, artefacts, paintings and sculpture from the many periods covering India's history, including the Indus Valley Civilization. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10.30 am to 6 pm.
National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA)
This is the former Cowasji Jehangir Hall, of the Institute of Science. It has been renovated to serve as a four-storey exhibition hall, displaying the best of Indian contemporary art. Open daily except Monday, from 10 am to 5 pm.
Gateway of India
Mumbai's most striking monument, this too was designed by George Wittet. It has an imposing gateway arch in the Indo-Saracenic style with Gujarati and Islamic elements such as wooden carvings. It was built to commemorate the visit
of King George V and Queen Mary to India in 1911. This area is also the departing point for ferries plying to Elephanta Island and other beaches across the port. Behind it is the beautiful old (and new) structure of the Taj Mahal Hotel
Marine Drive and Chowpatty Beach
This is the stretch now known as Netaji Subhashchandra Bose Road with Nariman Point on one end to Babulnath, at the foot of Walkeshwar on the other. For the most part, a pleasant promenade continues along the beach
with the Chowpatty area situated somewhat in the middle.Chowpatty Beach is a teeming mass of people, vendors, masseurs and roadside restaurants with its specialties being bhelpuri and kulfi. Across the Chowpatty Beach area is the Taraporewala Aquarium. Marine Drive is also referred to as the Queen's Necklace because of the dramatic line of street lamps lit up at night.
Malabar Hill
This is essentially an up-market residential area with some spectacular views of the city surroundings. On the road climbing up, is a Jain temple dedicated to Adinath, the first Jain tirthankara. At one end, on the top are the
Hanging Gardens (Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens) and the Kamala Nehru Park. Both provide relaxing atmospheres of greenery. Beside the Hanging Gardens are the Parsi Towers of Silence. But these are off-limits to all except those who have come to dispose and pay respect to the dead.
Towards the other end is the Banganga temple complex at Walkeshwar, considered to be one of Mumbai's holiest sites. Local legend has it that the Hindu god Rama rested here on his way to rescue Sita (his wife) from Lanka. The Banganga Tank is supposedly the spot where Rama shot his bow or bana. Further away is the British built Raj Bhavan, the residence of the governor of Maharashtra. The Banganga Festival of Music is a yearly highlight, and is in the month of January usually.
Mani Bhavan
This simple and charming museum was where Mahatma Gandhi lived on his visits to Mumbai between 1917 and 1934. Gandhi's room and belongings including his books are on display. Mani Bhavan is situated on Laburnam Road,
near the August Kranti Maidan, where the 'Quit India' movement was launched in 1942. Open daily from 9.30 am to 6 pm
Mahalaxmi Temple
The Mahalaxmi Temple is a popular holy site as Mahalaxmi is the goddess of wealth. It is situated at one end of Breach Candy -- a trendy residential and shopping area, now known as B. Desai Road.
Haji Ali Shrine
Further along the seashore, at the end of a long pathway surrounded by seawater is the shrine dedicated to Haji Ali, a Muslim saint. Access is only at low tide via the pathway.
Siddhivinayak Temple
Located in the Prabha Devi area of Mumbai, this popular temple dedicated to Ganesh was rebuilt on the site of a 200-year old temple. Built of black stone, the idol of Ganesh is two and a half feet in height and two feet in width.
An unusual feature of the statue is that the trunk turns to the right, not often found on Ganesh idols. Tuesday is the main day ofdarshan and puja, but this temple is frequented by hundreds of devotees everyday. Click here for more details.
Juhu Beach
This suburban beach is great favourite with Mumbaites, and has plenty to offer everyone. Like Marine Drive's Chowpatty, Juhu 'Chowpatty' is a vendor's delight with innumerable food counters. It is a wonderful
place to bring kids, as it doubles up as an amusement park, play ground, and open-air restaurant. An unusual sight at this beach is the camel ride, which is both fun and popular.

RBI's Monetary Museum

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is the central bank of the country. As the central bank, it is also the custodian of the country's monetary heritage. To document and preserve India's monetary history for the posterity and as a part of the Reserve Bank's education and outreach programme for the common man, especially the students, the Reserve Bank has conceived the Monetary Museum.

Mural: Explaining the evolution Of Money

The first of its kind in India, the Reserve Bank's Monetary Museum was inaugurated in 2004 by India's President, Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam. The Museum attempts to demystify money as it evolved from

the age old barter system to the present stored value cards. On display in the Museum are, coins of various sizes and shapes issued since 6th century B.C. to the present times. There are also panels of bank notes and instruments of indigenous banking like hundies. All this is explained through graphic panels in English and Hindi.

Shapes & Sizes of Money

The Museum also has a screen for trading in foreign exchange with live quotes on foreign exchange, commodities and share prices. Visitors can not only see how exchange rates of various currencies change but can also take imaginary positions in currency, sell or buy and make or lose money!

Ancient Coinage

For children, information kiosks provide information with entertainment. They can learn about features of currency notes and facts about coins while playing games and while leaving, one can pick up brochures on the story of money in India, India's contemporary currency, Indian coinage and precious signatures. One can also buy mementos like posters on coins and currency notes, post cards and greeting cards.

Financial Instrument: RBI Share Certificate

How to Get There ?

One of the advantages of being a major metropolis is that Mumbai is well connected to the rest of the state and country.

If you are arrivng by air, disembarkation would be either at Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (formerly known as Sahar Airport) or at Chhatrapati Shivaji Domestic Airport (formerly known as Santa Cruz Airport). They are about 4 kms apart and are approximately 30 kms and 26 kms away from the heart of the city - Nariman Point - in south Mumbai. An airport bus service operates between the airports and the Air India Building at Nariman Point. The journey takes an hour to the domestic terminal and fifteen minutes longer to the international terminal. However, be warned that during peak-hour traffic the journey could last almost two hours. Tickets can be bought either on the buses or at the booth outside the Air India Building. There is also a shuttle bus that operates at regular intervals between the domestic and international airports.

For those choosing to travel by train, Mumbai's two main railway terminals - Mumbai Central and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (or VT) connect it to the rest of the country. For up-to-date information on tickets and routes, check the Western Railway and Central Railway reservation centres.

Long distance buses depart from Mumbai Central S.T. Bus Depot to several towns and cities. MTDC also operates a number of bus services throughout the year (except for the monsoon months) to many scenic spots and tourist centres. Check at MTDC counters for details.

Around Mumbai

Elephanta Caves

Across the Mumbai Harbour, lie the seventh-century rock-cut temples of Elephanta. Once known as Gharapuri, or the Fortress City, the Caves are now designated as a World Heritage Site and visited by hundreds of tourists both for their art historical and scenic value. The Portuguese renamed this island Elephanta after a large stone elephant found near the shore ( the elephant sculpture collapsed in 1814, when the British relocated it to the Victoria Gardens now Mumbai's zoo, where it still stands).

Getting there:

Approach to the Island is by boat. Luxury and ordinary launches as well as catamarans leave for Elephanta from Apollo Bunder at the Gateway of India. Boats usually leave every half-hour from 9 am to 2 pm from Apollo Bunder and between 1 pm and 5 pm from Elephanta Island. Tickets are sold at booths near the Gateway of India and the MTDC offers daily tours to the Island. During the monsoons the ordinary boat services are usually suspended.

Sanjay Gandhi National Park and Kanheri Caves

104 sq. kmS of green hills and forests, this protected area lies near the northern suburb of Borivali. In fact the park was formerly known as the Borivali National Park. There is a Lion Safari Park 500 m inside the entrance and safari rides run daily except Monday from 9 am to 5 pm. The park is also well known for the 109 Kanheri Caves ( in particular Cave 3), built between the 2nd and 9th centuries as viharas(monasteries) and chaityas (prayer halls).

Getting there:

Visitors can take the train on the Western line (from Churchgate) to Borivali station and then an auto-rickshaw to the Caves. On Sundays and public holidays, a bus service runs from Borivali station to the Caves. The MTDC suburban tour also includes Kanheri in its itinerary.

Marve, Manori and Gorai

North of Mumbai and away from its bustling crowds and pollution, are these 3 beaches that have become popular havens for Mumbai's beleaguered fun lovers. Marve, the closest and the quietest is a lovely little fishing village. There are some beautiful bungalows and up-scale homes belonging to the city's wealthy used mainly as weekend getaways. Low hills along the beach offer you extraordinary views of sunrise and sunset. Gorai and Manori, a little further away, are more crowded with revellers and are famous for all night beach parties.

Getting there:

Marve is about 40 kms by car from Mumbai. You can alight at Malad railway station (a suburban station on the Western Railway line) and proceed by road. A 15 minute ferry ride from Marve or Borivali will take you to Manori or Gorai.

Mandwa and Kihim

You will find these two beach fronts 12 miles north of Alibag on the north coast and easily accessible from Mumbai. Mandwa is a beautiful, untrodden beach. On a clear day one can enjoy a long, breathtaking view across the bay, up to the Gateway of India. Mandwa village too, has a charm of its own -- with its beautiful groves of coconut palms. Plan an unusual tent holiday nearby at Kihim.

Getting there:

It is accessible by boats and road. There is regular ferry service between the Gateway of India and Mandwa Jetty. For Kihim, one can take an auto-rickshaw or bus further onwards. By road, Kihim is 136 kms from Mumbai.

Bassein

Bassein Fort, now in ruins, was under the Portuguese a thriving fortified city from 1534 to 1739 when it was sacked by the Marathas. The ruins of the Portuguese Fort still stand almost hidden by brushwood and palm groves. Some of the walls and churches can still be seen. About 10 kms to the north-west lies Nalasopara village, the capital of the Konkan region from 1500 BC to AD 1300. Many Buddhist relics were discovered here. Nalasopara is believed to have been the birthplace of the Buddha in a previous life. To the north, is the Agar of Agashi and to the south is the Agar of Bassein. An hour by bus from Bassein station are the Vajreshwari Temple and Akoli Hot Springs. Also easily accessible is Ganeshpuri with the Sadguru Nityanand Maharaj Samadhi Mandir, the Bhimeshwar Temple and other ashrams.

Getting there:

Bassein Fort can be reached by train up to Bassein or Vasai Road station on the Western Railway and then by auto-rickshaw or taxi. By road, it is 77 kms along the Mumbai-Ahmedabad highway.

Khandala, Lonavala and Karla

Khandala and Lonavala are two charming hill stations on the western slopes of the Sahyadris, 5 kms apart straddling the Mumbai-Pune highway at an altitude of 625 m. Very popular with Mumbaites, they also alternate as getaways and health resorts. Khandala is the smaller and calmer of the two, though browsing through Lonavala's bazaar could yield some wonderful surprises.

Weather:

Temperatures vary from 12 C in winter to around 36 C in the peak of summer. The annual rainfall, when the climate is very pleasant, is 450 cms. October to May is the best time to visit.

Getting there

Pune 66 kms away, is the nearest airport. All trains from Mumbai to Pune and the South stop at Lonavala. Mumbai is 104 kms away by road, the last 20 kms of which wind up the ghats through grueling switchbacks. Taxis and auto-rickshaws easily available in Lonavala and Khandala, are the best way of getting to and from Karla.

Matheran

Matheran is an undulating hilltop cloaked in shady trees, that sprawls languidly at an altitude of 800 m. The journey involves an adventurous two-hour ascent in a toy train, with food and drink vendors and monkeys jumping on and off as the valley glides by sedately. Alternately, a tough 11 km hike through thick and shady forests or a winding car drive can get you there as well.

Weather:

Temperatures vary from 16 C in winter to 32 C in summer, with an annual rainfall of 524 cms. October to May is the best time to visit.

Getting there

Mumbai, 100 kms away is the nearest airport. Neral station, 21 kms away is where you can catch the toy train. Mumbai by road is about 108 kms from Matheran via Karjat and Neral. Pune is 120 kms away. All cars and buses stop at Dasturi just outside, from which you can walk, take a horse or a hand-pulled rickshaw into the town. State Transport buses ply regularly from Mumbai and Pune.

Entertainment

Nightlife

Nightlife in Mumbai is best described by the fact that Mumbai is a city that never sleeps. Trendy 'pubs' and discos or nightclubs are located in the Fountain/Colaba area and the suburbs too have plenty to offer. Many restaurants double up as bars and nightclubs and stay open till late hours. For those on a budget, the local beaches such as Chowpatty and Juhu have a life of their own during the nights, and often people are found strolling on the beachfronts enjoying the cool breeze. Both serve as playgrounds, open-air restaurants and amusements parks.

Bollywood and Movies

India's answer to Hollywood, Bollywood films have a fantastic mix of action, violence, music, dance, romance and an almost non-existent story. Hindi films are a part and parcel of life not just in Mumbai but probably all over India. The industry rooted in Mumbai, produces over 200 films a year and is the largest maker of films anywhere in the world. The film stars or as they known as in 'filmi' parlance, the heroes and heroines are treated as mega-stars and likened to gods and goddesses. The masses adore their 'masala' films because they allow the people of India to escape into a fantasy and hang on to their dreams.

Every movie is punctuated with at least half a dozen songs and elaborate dance numbers, plus an equal number of costume and location changes. Given this, it is no wonder that the musical success of a film is vital to its overall success. The formula for a 'hit' film has been tried and tested hundreds of times, and many movies may be actual copies of Hollywood originals. However, nowadays they boast of outstanding production values, with breathtaking cinematography, intricate stunts and action shots, and a sophistication and slickness previously missing.

If you haven't seen one, it's worth a shot. Ask around for the latest good flicks running in a movie theatre near you. A visit to the sets -- a wonderfully chaotic experience -- is possible by contacting the managers or public relations officers of the following studios: Film City in Goregaon, Natraj in Andheri and RK Studio in Chembur.

Theatre and Music

Traditionally, Mumbai has always had a strong local following for both music and theatre. In fact, theatre performances in Marathi, Hindi, Gujarati and English are of a very high standard. Both serious plays and lighter 'spoofs' or farcical comedies are performed. Usually plays are held on the weekends, as in many cases the actors have other professions as well. Check the local papers for the latest listings as plays are performed all over the city with a number of theatre halls in the suburbs as well. The National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) at Nariman Point and the Prithvi Theatre in Juhu (with an excellent café) have regular performances.

Imagine you can hear the lilting sounds of a sitar against the gentle lapping of waves! Music is found all over the city, and the sheer number and variety of concerts will satisfy both western and Indian music lovers. Indian classical music is best heard outdoors in performances usually held in the winter months. The best and most talented artistes perform here, with such arresting backdrops as the Gateway of India and the Banganga Tank. There is no shortage of pop, rock, and jazz too. Many restaurants and venues have live performances by local and international artistes, all providing a pulsating and lively atmosphere. Check local papers for concerts and the NCPA programme as well.

For music, dance, drama and the movies, the Government of India's tourist office publishes a fortnightly guide with the latest information of what's on.

Festivals

Banganga Festival

Usually held in January, organised by the MTDC, this two-day festival of music is held at the historic Banganga Tank.. Performers are usually exponents of classical vocal and instrumental music, and its beautiful setting and soothing music provide a charming ambience. Proceeds from the sale of tickets go towards the conservation, upkeep and maintenance of the Banganga temple complex.

Elephanta Festival

Against the dramatic façade of the cave temples, this festival of dance and music is held in the early part of the year, usually in February. Also organised by the MTDC, the event involves a boat ride from the Gateway of India to the Elephanta Islands.

Kala Ghoda Festival

Every Sunday from November to January, at Mumbai in the Kala Ghoda area (now known as K. Dubash Marg), near the Jehangir Art Gallery is transformed into a street bazaar of arts and crafts. Food, handicrafts and performances are all part of this daylong event starting from 10 am and ending at 9 pm, organised by MTDC.

Mumbai Tips

Weather

The winter months ( November-February) are the coolest, while the rest of the year is hot. The monsoon months (June-September) though cooler are hampered on occasion by heavy rainfall.

Getting Around

The local suburban railway network along the Western and Central corridors together with the BEST buses provide commuters with an efficient transportation network. Trains leave every few minutes from stations in both directions from 4.30 am to 1.30 am although the frequency is less in the nighttime and early morning. Taxis, cars for hire (along with drivers), and auto-rickshaws allow for easy travel within the city. Mumbai's yellow and black taxis are a convenient way to travel around the city. A tariff card converting the meter reading into rupees fixes payment. Auto-rickshaws are also metered but are only confined to the outer limits of the city, around the northern suburbs. The Mumbai train map can be found Click here.

Tourist Offices

The Government of India Tourist Office is situated at 123 Maharshi Karve Road, opposite Churchgate station and open Monday through Friday from 8.30 am to 6 pm, and on Saturday from 8.30 am to 2 pm. It brings out a free brochure on Mumbai and guide covering Mumbai's major entertainment events every two weeks. It also runs a 24-hour counter at the International airport and a counter at the domestic airport that stays open till the last flight.

Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) is another useful center with its head office at the Nariman Point (Express Towers, 9th Floor). Close by is its Tours Division and Reservation Office at CDO Hutments, Madame Cama Road, open from 8 am to 8 pm, where bookings can be made for all tours around the city, long-distance buses and MTDC hotels throughout Maharashtra. The MTDC also has a counter near the Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the airports.

List of Travel Agents

Changing Money

Several international banks provide cash advances on Visa and MasterCard. The American Express Travel Services office near the Regal Cinema in Colaba is a good place to exchange foreign money. Thomas Cook on D N Road near Flora Fountain also exchanges money. There are a number of foreign exchange counters at the international airport as well.

Emergency Services

For Police dial 100, Fire 101 and Ambulance 102. Most hotels can provide a physician for a medical emergency and will guide you to the nearest pharmacy around the area.

Dress Code

To combat the heat and humidity wear informal loose clothes. It is recommended not to wear skimpy clothing.

Beggars

Even though you'll come across beggars and street children, it is advisable to avoid giving money

Tipping

Tip at your discretion. In restaurants, 10 % of the bill is fine.

Domestic Airlines

Indian Airlines: 612 7391/ 611 2850 (Santacruz Airport)
Enq - 140,(Arrival - 142), (Departure -143).
JetAirways: 838 6111 / 619 3333
Sahara India Airlines: Airport -611 9375 / 9402

International Airlines

Sahara Airlines: 836 6700
Air India International: 287 6464
British Airways: 282 1424/ 0888
Cathay Pacific: 202 9112/9113
Gulf Air: 202 1626
Lufthansa: 202 3430 http://www.mumbainet.com/travel/airlines.htm

Railways

Enquiry : 265 9135
Central General Enquiry : 134
Western General Enquiry : 131
http://www.mumbai-central.com/imp_info/

Hospitals

Hinduja Hospital (Mahim) 445 2222/ 1515
Jaslok Hospital (Peddar Road) 493 3333
Mumbai Hospital (Marine Lines) 206 7676

Chemists (Day/Night)

Noble Chemist (Opera House) : 385 3130
Nobel Medical (Santacruz) : 600 1570
Khar Medical Stores (Khar) : 646 1329
Nobel Chemists(Ghatkopar) : 510 3281
Shital Medical (Chembur) : 555 4461
Shree Swami Samarth ( Dadar) : 431 3289

Travel - Visakhapatnam

2011-08-18T08:56:00.000-07:00

City at a Glance

Imagine golden beaches that stretch as far as your imagination, green hills rising high on the other side, a city thriving on modern industry and commerce in the midst. Add to the scenario a generous mix of ancient Buddhist heritage, geological wonders, famous temples, inviting culture and mesmerizing arts & crafts. Visakhapatnam will better your imagination with all of these and more. It is a city keeping pace with the times, even while preserving its rich past. It is a city painted with industrial revolution, even as it retains its colours of nature. Welcome to one of the most beautiful imprints of civilization on the Indian soil - Visakhapatnam (popularly known as Vizag).

The second largest city of Andhra Pradesh and one of the fastest growing cities in Asia. Once a small fishing village, the city today is a busy port endowed with a natural harbor. A number of major industries, ship building yard, a mega oil refinery, a massive steel and power plant make Vizag one of the modern faces of India. However, all the industrial progress of Vizag has taken place in the midst of the awe-inspiring Eastern Ghats on one side and the blue waters of Bay of Bengal on the other, giving the city a magical touch.

How to reach:

Visakhapatnam is well connected with rest of the country by Air (it has domestic Air Port), Train (situated on the Howarah–Chennai route), Road (situated on the National High Way–5), and Sea (regular cruise to Andaman & also connected with other major ports).

Air - Connected with Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, New Delhi and other important cities in India. Indian Airlines, Jet Airways and Air Sahara operate regular flights from Visakhaptnam to some of the important domestic destinations.

Flight to Major Domestic Destinations

Airlines	Destinations	Frequency
Indian Airlines	Visakhapatnam - Delhi	4 flights a week - Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday
	Visakhapatnam - Mumbai	1 flight daily
	Visakhapatnam - Chennai	4 flights a week - Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday
	Visakhapatnam - Hyderabad	1 flight daily

Jetlite	Visakhapatnam - Delhi	1 flight daily
	Visakhapatnamd - Mumbai	1 flight daily
	Visakhapatnam - Kolkatta	1 flight daily
	Visakhapatnam - Hyderabad	1 flight daily
	Other Destinations: Daily flights to Ahmedabad, Bhubaneshwar, Jaipur, and Lucknow.

Deccan Airways	Visakhapatnam - Hyderabad	1 flight daily

Rail - Vizag is an important junction on the commercially important Chennai Kolkata rail line. As such the city is well connected by rail with New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata and Hyderabad. Daily express trains are available to all these four major cities.

Click here for Online Reservations

Bus - Vizag is 650 km from Hyderabad and 350 km from Vijayawada. Regular bus services are available to Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Bhubaneshwar, Chennai and Tirupati.

Places of Interest:

Visakhapatnam is a Tourist Haven! There are number of places of tourist interest in Visakhapatnam right from temples and Buddhist sites to nature spots and beaches.

Rushikonda:
Just 8Kms from Vizag, Rushikonda beach is a picture perfect setting with golden sands, surf, sea and hill cottages overlooking the grand vista. For lovers of swimming and water sports like skiing and wind surfing, Rushikonda is an ideal destination. At the end of a grueling session, one can always chillout at the bar cum restaurant attached to the cottage.

Bhemunipatnam:
The 25 Kms stretch of road literally hugging the coastline from Visakhapatnam is simply breathtaking. On the way one can venture into "Erramattidibbalu", beautiful formation of red sand, or the shallow waters of the unending beach. Bheemili a sleepy little town, is the second oldest municipality in the country. The colonial past of the town is evident in the remains of a once thriving Dutch Settlement. River Gosthani at the mouth of which Bheemili lies forms an alluring recess to the town. The important landmarks of Bheemili includes, pilgrimage centers, temples, old churches, clock tower, light house, port and more.

Dolphin’s Nose:
It is the most prominent and unforgettable landmark in Visakhapatnam. It is a single and massive hillock of more than 350mts height, resembles the Dolphin’s nose hence the name. It protects the Visakhapatnam Harbour as well as the Head Quarters of Eastern Naval Command. Visakhapatnam Port Trust’s, Light House is situated on top of the hill and guides the approaching ships to Visakhapatnam. The port channel cuts in between three hills which emphasis the lovely topography of Visakhapatnam. Ross Hill, the highest mount named after Mr. Ross, local authority, who built a house on it in 1864, Darga konda, has a mosque and a shrine of a Muslim sage Ishaque Madina, who was revered for his prophecies. Sri Venkateswarakonda has a temple, which was built by Capt. Blackmoor in 1886.

Ramakrishna Beach:
It is one of the most prominent beaches on the East Cost. It is the most happening place in Visakhapatnam one of the crowed pullers in the city. It is commonly called as R K Beach, which derives its name from the Lord Ramakrishna Mission. The important landmarks in the city viz. Submarine Museum, Visakha Museum, Aquarium, number of road side parks with children play equipments & lawns, War Memorial, statues of eminent personalities and many more are situated in this beach only.

Kailasagiri:
Kailasagiri Park located on a picturesque hill is truly an outstanding tourist spot in Visakhapatnam city. Located at an altitude of 130mtrs.this hill park faces the Bay of Bengal. The ranges are appropriately named Kailasagiri owing to the presence of the statue of the celestial couple (Siva-Parvathi statue). The high point also gives a panoramic view of the city, its beaches. There is a well-laid road for motorists and steps for pedestrians. The entire area is illuminated and presents a fantastic sight when viewed in the night from any part of the city.

While all this makes the ambience suitable for tourism, the presence of huge idol makes the place worth seeing for the devotes. The Titanic view point, manicured lawns and flower beds, food court, a jungle trail, souvenir shop, telescopic viewpoint and many more. The other major attractions are the introduction of Ropeway to the hill, art gallery, and air conditioned Conference Hall & Capsule Lift to the highest view point.

Simhachalam:
One of the most exquisitely sculpted shrines of Andhra Pradesh, Simhachalam temple is situated 16 km from Vizag among thickly wooded hills. The beautifully-carved 16-pillared Natya mantapa and the 96-pillared Kalyana mantapa bear testimony to the architectural brilliance of the temple. The image of the presiding deity, Sri Lakshminarasimha Swamy, is covered by a thick layer of sandalwood paste.

The Vuda Park:
The park named after Mr. N.T. Rama Rao, former chief minister of Andhra Pradesh, popularly known as Vuda Park is a heavy crowd puller and has dancing musical fountains, boating facility, skating ring, a well-equipped gymnasium and a stable offering pleasure rides on camels and horses.

Indira Gandhi Zoological Park:
Indira Gandhi Zoological Park, situated in between the National Highway -5 & Beach road, spreading over an area of 625 acres, exhibits about 700 animals belonging to about 89 species. The important attractions of the Zoo are Deer Safari, Nocturnal animals, Toy train, Shanty Sarovar view, Zoo van drive and Bay of Bengal view points.

Araku Valley:
Araku is one of the most important tourist destination in Andhra Pradesh. A pleasant hill station famous for its scenic gardens with lush green nature, valleys, waterfalls and streams. It is situated at a distance of 112 km from Visakhapatnam, The journey to Araku valley on the Eastern Ghats with thick forest on either sides is itself highly interesting and pleasant. The place is over 3200ft. high with a bracing climate. The Botanical Garden at Padmapuram, Government Silk Farm with Mulberry gardens is the live examples to know the socio-economic conditions of the area.

Tribal Museum is a biggest attraction of the Araku. Chaaparai, a picturesque place about 15 km from Araku is another picnic spot in this region. One must experience the climatic conditions and the natural beauty of this Valley. The natural beauty of this valley comes alive with the aboriginal tribes who dwell here and who have to this day kept their tradition and culture alive. About 19 tribes inhabit this area. The Dhimsa dance, an age-old folk dance normally performed during ‘Itikala Pongal’ is now offered in tourist’s packages everyday.

Borra Caves:
On the way to Araku Valley, 90 km from Vizag, Borra Caves house spectacular, million-year-old stalactite and stalagmite formations, standing as a testimonial to its pristine glory and age woven into intricate design through the centuries. While the formations resembling mythological characters are an added attraction, illumination of the caves by AP Tourism turns the naturally sculpted glory into a grand visual feast. The nature made Borra Caves are a million and odd years old and said to be discovered by William King in 1807. The river Gostani, beautiful hills and valleys surround these caves. The local tale says, the tribals discovered the caves, when a cow fell into the caves through the hole of the cave.

These caves are said have their origin from the river Gosthani. It was said, due to the flow of the river Gosthani through the layers of lime earth, the caves were formed, over the course of millions of years, The 300 ft. thick roofed Borra caves spread over one square km., presenting a mind-boggling and breath-taking display of naturally sculpted splendor. This is truly a worth seeing.

Tyda:
Tyda is a small village nestling in the wooded hills of the Eastern Ghats, on the way to Araku from Vizag. Tyda is located 75 kms from Vizag. This place is a natural bounty of flora and fauna, It is now home to an enchanting date with untouched nature. AP Tourism department in association with the Department of Forests ha established the Jungle Bells Nature Camp, an Eco-Tourism Resort. The camp provides great view of Eastern Ghats, facilities for trekking, hiking and bird watching in addition to accommodation in log huts amidst serene surroundings. A must see place for nature lovers.

Anantagiri:
This place is located at the highest altitude place in Andhra Pradesh. Located on the way to Araku Valley, the entire village is surrounded by coffee plantations, giving you a pleasant feel of nature’s beauty. Several waterfalls, adorn the hillocks around the Village. A. P. Tourism has developed a beautiful wayside restaurant to cater the needs of the tourist passing through Anantagiri towards Araku.

Appikonda:
This is a small village situated on the coast of the Bay of Bengal at a distance of 30 kms from Vizag. It assumed religious importance owing to the existence of a Shiva temple containing a life size Nandi carved out of black stone. There are also other small temples around the temple but are mostly covered with sand dunes. The temple contains inscriptions of 12th century A.D. The Shivaratri celebrated here is attended by a large number of devotees.

Etikoppaka:

Over an hour's drive from Vizag, Etikoppaka is a delightful little village on the banks of river Varaha. The craftment of the village have won fame on a national scale with toys made of soft wood called "Ankudu" and coated with lac. These toys are colourful and depict the rural life in an endearingly simple manner.

Submarine Museum:
The Indian Navy has installed a decommissioned Submarine I.N.S. Kurusura on the sands of R K Beach, Visakhapatnam as a Museum for the display to the public and tourists as well. This is the first of its kind in the Asia. The aim of setting up of this museum is to create awareness among the public to know how the submarines work during wartime and how the crew takes action etc.

Buddhists Sites

Visakhapatnam is surronded by ancient Buddist sites, most of which have been excavated recently . The imprint of Buddhist legacy is so strong here that the interest of archeologists in this area is growing by the day.

Thotlakonda:
The Buddhist Complex on the hill-top of Mangamaripeta, locally known as Thotlakonda lies about 16Kms from Visakhapatnam on Vizag Bheemili beach road. It is picturesquely located on the hilltop at about 128mts. high above the MSL. The existence of Buddhist site at Thotlakonda came to light during an aerial survey undertaken by the Indian Navy. After its discovery, the Government of A.P has declared the site measuring an area of 120 acres on the summit as protected monument during 1978.

The excavations that lasted from 1988 to 1992 have exposed structural remains. These remains are classified as A) Religious, B) Secular and C) Civil. These structures include the Stupa, Chaityagrihas, pillared congregation halls, bhandagaras, refectory (bhojanasala), drainage and stone pathways etc. The complex comprises of several structural components such as a Mahastupa, 16 votive stupas, a stone pillared congregation hall, 11 rock-cut cisterns, well paved stone path ways, an apsidal chaitya-griha, 3 circular chaitgya-grihas , two votive platforms, 10 viharas consisted of 72 cells, a kitchen complex with three halls and a refectory (dinning hall) etc. Associated with the above structures were unearthed several inscribed chatra pieces with early Brahmi letters, nine Satavahana and five roman silver coins, terracotta tiles, stucco decorative pieces, sculptured panels, miniature stupa models in stone, Buddha padas depicted with asthamangal symbols, early historic pottery etc.

Bavikonda:
Bavikonda, an important Buddhist heritage site located on a hill about 15kms., northeast from Visakhapatnam city. Here the Buddhist habitation is noticed on a 40 acres flat terraced area. Bavikonda in Telugu means a hill of wells. A Hinayana school of Buddhism was practiced here. Bavikonda Monastery flourished between 3rd Century B.C., and 3rd Century A.D., The discovery of relic caskets in Mahachaitya is significant. Bavikonda has remains of an entire Buddhist complex, comprising 26 structures belonging to three phases. A piece of bone stored in an urn recovered here is believed to belong to the mortal remains of the Buddha. It also contains large quantity of ash, charcoal, and earthenware. Three abandoned water tanks were also have been found on this hillock.

Sankaram:
A Britisher Alexander Rea unearthed Sankaram, a 2000-year-old Buddhist Heritage site in 1907. Located 40 km from South of Vizag, locally it is known as Bojjannakonda. The three phases of Buddhism viz. Hinayana, Mahayana & Vajrayana flourished here. This complex is famous for its numerous Monolithic Votive Stupas, Rock cut caves, and brick build structural edifices. Excavations yielded several historic potteries, Satavahana coins dating back to the 1st century A.D. several clay tablets bearing figures of Buddha etc.

Bojjannakonda, the Eastern one bears richer architecture of the two hills. It presents a picturesque appearance with its Main Stupa on the hilltop and dominating myriads of stupas, mostly rock-cut and rarely brick-built, one above the other. Almost every outcrop and protuberance has been converted boldly into a stupa. Similarly at Lingalakonda, there are innumerable rock-cut monolithic stupas in rows spread all over the hill. Other Attractions are a Maha stupa nearby which yielded a relic casket, 3 chaitya halls, votive platforms, stupas and vajrayana sculptures. A gold coin of Samudragupta dating to 4th century AD was also found at this place. The Vihara was active for about 1000 years, spanning the Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana phases of Buddhism. This place offers a glimpse into the rich Buddhist heritage and culture is a must see for any tourist.

Pavuralakonda:
Pavuralakonda or 'the hill of the pigeons' is a hillock lying to the west of Bhimli, at about 24 km from Vizag. The Buddhist setllement found here is estimated to have witnessed human habitation between 1st century BC to 2nd century AD. Sixteen rock cut cisterns for impounding rain water are found on the hillock, which offer a panoramic view of the coastline.

Gopalapatnam:
Gopalapatnam, situated on the left bank of River Tandava, is a village surrounded by brick built stupas, viharas and other Buddhist remains. Ancient pottery was also excavated from these sites.

Dining

Alkapuri Deluxe
Restaurant & Alkapuri Fast Foods,
Suryabagh-20
Tel: +91-0891-502314

Anapuma Hotel,
Opp RTC Complex-16
Tel: +91-0891-2701089/(R)573710

Annapurna Hotel,
Petrol Bunk Jn.,Gopalapatnam-27
Tel:+91-0891-521066/520922

Brindavan Restaurant
141-13-151, Old Gajuwaka-26
Tel: +91-0891-517936

Bombay Garden
A..C Restaurant, Beside Jyothi Theatre Ladies Gate, Dabgardens-20
Tel: +91-0891- 595759

Chandragupta Restaurant
Allipuram-4
Tel: +91-0891- 2747828

Chit-Chat Tandoori Foods,
46-15-44, Surya Thaetre Bus Stop
Dondaparthy-16
Tel: +91-0891-558467/(R)541221

Delicacies Restaurant,
2/10 Opp A.S Raja College,
MVP colony
Tel: +91-0891-558361

Gautam Bahavan
Opp Control Room,
Suryabagh-20
Tel: +91-0891-561733

Gokul Specialities
Shop No-4, Ground Floor Raja Ram Mohan Towers
Opp Meghalaya Hotel-3
Tel: +91-0891-550875

Gowtham Family
A/C Restaurant,
Hong Kong Bank Lane Surya Bagh-20
Tel: +91-0891-561889

Green Apple Family Restaurant,
Aditya Complex
Gajuwaka Main Road-26
Tel: +91-0891-511687/551689

Heritage (Exclusive Veg Restaurant)
Balaji Mangalagri Chambers,
Sripuram-3
Tel: +91-0891-540202/540606

Hotel Amarvathi (A.C)
Dabgarden Main Road-20,
Main road, Old Gajuwaka-26
Tel: +91-0891-746920,758250

Hotel Bezawada,
Dwaraknagar, Vizag-16
Tel: +91-0891-746077

Hotel Motimahal
Opp Purna Shopping Complex
Main Road-1
Tel: +91-0891-502592

Hotel Mourya
Opp Rajkamal Theatre
Suryabagh-20
Tel: +91-0891-566277

Hotel Naveen
Dwarakanagar-16
Tel: +91-0891-748215

Hotel New Raj Durbar
31 MVR Complex,
Dwarkanagar, Opp RTC Complex
Vizag-16
Tel: +91-0891- 595196

Hotel Sri Laxmi
Krishnagar, Near American Hospital
Maharanipeta-2
Tel: +91-0891-2704404

Hotel Swapna
Jagadamba Centre-20
Tel: +91-0891-508200

Karanath Restaurant
26-15-23 Main Road-1,
Tel: +91-0891-563668/525278

Moghul Darbar
Opp RTC Complex MVR Complex
Dwarkanagar
Tel: +91-0891-2746624

Naaz Restaurant
Main Road-1
Tel: +91-0891-502870

Paris A/C Restaurant
Opp Rama Talkies-3
Tel: +91-0891-551317

Raj Durbar,
Opp RTC Complex
Dwarkanagar-16
Tel: +91-0891-543302

Sarovar Hotel,
47-11-17
Dwarkanagar-16
Tel: +91-0891-2755995,2755004

Shri Divya Restaurant
Opp Mohini Theatre
Main Road Gajuwaka
Tel: +91-0891-517927

Sky Room Restaurant
19-19-152/1, Ramakrishna Jn-1
Tel: +91-0891-502569

Sri Reddy Restaurant
Peda Waltair Jn-17
Tel: +91-0891-506699/706699

Sri Sai Ram Parlour
Near Diamond Park
Dwarkanagar-16
Tel: +91-0891-573094

Sri Sai Sudha Lodge & Restaurant
Railway New Colony-16
Tel: 0891-541726

Sri Sarigama Restaurant
Asilmetta Jn-3
Tel: +91-0891-2754667

Sri Sudha Hotel A.C
Opp RTC Complex
Dwarakanagar-16
Tel: +91-0891-552530

Sri Venkateshwara Garden Restaurant
Diamond Park Road
Dondaparthy Jn-16
Tel: +91-0891-529018

Tandoori Inn
Shop No -7, Muncipal Complex
Dwarakanagar-16
Tel: +91-0891-596755

Waltair Club
Uplands-2
Tel: +91-0891-565240

White House
Beside Chandra Brothers ,
Jagdamba Centre - 20
Tel: +91-0891-564449/531330 (R)

Entertainment

The city of Visakhaptnam offers multiple options for entertainment and leisure. It is proliferated with Beaches, Resorts, Amusement parks, Cultural centers, and more.

Enquiries may be made from residing hotels for details on the entertainment facilities available in the City

Tourist Guides

Ms. Kalidindi Krishna Veni,
W/o. K. Murali Krishnam Raju
LIG - 35, H.B. Colony
Seethamma Dhara
Visakhapatnam
Tel: +91-0891-2781528

Mr. Srinivasa Rao Bodi
S/o. B Tata Rao
9-51, L B S Nagar
Gujuwaka
Visakhapatnam,
Tel: +91-0891-2766304

Mr. Yerninti Srinivasa Rao
S/o. Suryanarayana
D.No. 11-2-29
Konki Veedhi
Bheemunipatnam,
Visakhapatnam - 531 163
Tel: +91-0891-228114

Ms. Maluru Vijaya Laxmi
D/o. Simhachalam
D.No. 34-5-26/1
Sabasteen Colony
Gnanapuram
Visakhapatnam - 506174
Tel: +91-0891 - 2794101

Travel Hyderabad

2011-08-18T08:41:00.000-07:00

Andhra Pradesh attracts the largest number of tourists in India. 3.2 million visitors visit the state every year. With more than 600 tourist locations, the second largest coast line in the country, 1000 years of history and pilgrimage centers of every major religion of India, AP is truly "The essence of India".

Destinations > Hyderabad

City at a Glance

Hyderabad, the magical name that brings to the mind's eye visions of royal grandeur and leisurely "Nawabi" (kingly) atmosphere. A Vacationer's delight, this legendary city with a 400-year-old history, of the splendour of Qutb Shahi and Asaf Jahi dynasties, Moghal grandeur, exotic cuisine, and exquisite markets, is world famous for its fascinating contrasts and unrivalled attractions.

Hyderabad, the capital of Andhra Pradesh, is the fifth largest cosmopolitan city in India. The City thrives with a variety of cultures intermingled into an astounding culture that gives it a distinct identity of its own. This is where tradition fuses with modernity, and heritage structures vie with modern high-rise buildings to add to the beauty of the city.

Located in the heart of the Deccan plateau, 1760 ft above the sea level, Hyderabad has an invigorating climate with awe inspiring prehistoric rocks and natural lakes, along with a variety of flora and flauna.

Hyderabad offers a variety of tourist attractions ranging from Heritage monuments, Lakes and Parks, Gardens and Resorts, Museums to delectable cuisine and a delightful shopping experience. The city of Hyderabad is a shopper's delight! From the world famous pearls to traditional arts & crafts, from textiles of all modern brand names to ethnic wear, the city offers an astounding variety of shopping. Hyderabad is famous world over for its fabulous diamond markets, glass embedded bangles and the delectable "Hyderabadi Cuisine".

It is unique in being one of the few cities where tradition and technology co-exist, a revolution that has already attracted Microsoft and other major MNC's to set their overseas base here. With a dynamic leadership, the state is steering the nation to new dimensions in the fields of Information Technology, Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals, Business Management, Construction, and more - to emerge as a land of immense business opportunities.

How to reach

Hyderabad is well connected to national and international destinations with both national and international air carriers. Needless to say you can reach anywhere from Hyderabad in no time.

Hyderabad is centrally located and exudes a huge potential to be transformed into a transit hub of South Asia

Flights From Major International Destinations to Hyderabad

Airlines	Destinations	Frequency
Lufthansa Airlines	Frankfurt - Hyderabad	Daily flight
Malaysian Airlines	Kuala Lumpur - Hyderabad	3 flights a week - Tuesday, Saturday & Sunday
Emirates Airlines	Dubai - Hyderabad	Daily flight
SriLankan Airlines	Colombo - Hyderabad	4 flights a week - Wednesday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday
Qatar Airways	Doha - Hyderabad	Daily flight
Saudi Airlines	Riyadh - Hyderabad	5 flight a week, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday
Saudi Airlines	Jeddah - Hyderabad	3 flights a week (via Riyadh) Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday
KLM Airlines	Amsterdam - Hyderabad	5 flights a week - Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday
Oman Air	Muscat - Hyderabad	Daily flight
Singapore Airlines	Singapore - Hyderabad	4 flights a week - Wednesday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday
Thai Airways	Bangkok - Hyderabad	4 flights a week - Monday, Wednesday, Friday, & Saturday
Kuwait Airways	Kuwait - Hyderabad	5 flights a week - Monday, Tuesday,Wednesday, Friday, & Sunday
Air India	Chicago - Hyderabad	2 flights a week - Thursday and Saturday
	Singapore - Hyderabad	2 flights a week Tuesday and Saturday
	Jeddah - Hyderabad	3 flights a week - Monday, Thursday and Saturday
	Dammam - Hyderabad	1 flight a week, Friday

Places of Interest

The city of smiles, of lights, of a thousand faces. Endearingly called the Pearl City, Hyderabad offers a variety of tourist attractions ranging from Heritage monuments, Lakes and Parks, Gardens and Resorts, Museums to delectable cuisine and a delightful shopping experience. Some of the tourist attractions include...

Hyderabad

Aalankrita-the Ethnic
Gateway
Andhra Pradesh State
Archaeological Museum
Birla Planetarium
Birla Mandir
Celebrity Club
Charminar
Chow Mohalla Complex
Dhola-ri-Dhani
Dream Valley Resorts
Golconda Fort

GolKonda Resorts
Hitec City
Hussainsagar Lake
Hyderabad Botanical
Gardens
KBR National Park
Lahari Resorts
Legislative Assembly
Leo Meridian Resort
Lumbini Park
Mahavir Harina
Vanasthali National
Park

Mecca Masjid
Mir Alam Tank
Mount Opera
Mrugavani National
Park
Nehru Zoological Park
Ocean Park
Osmania University
Osmansagar Lake
Public Gardens
Pragati Green Meadows
& Resorts

Qutub Shahi Tombs
Ramoji Film City
Salar Jung Museum
Secret Lake
Shamirpet
Shilparamam
Snow World
Taramati Baradari
The Nizam‘s Silver
Jubilee Museum
Treasure Island

Charminar:
The Charminar is as much the signature of Hyderabad as the Taj Mahal is of Agra or the Eiffel Tower is of Paris. Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah, the founder of Hyderabad, built Charminar in 1591 at the centre of the original city layout. It was said to be built as a charm to ward off a deadly epidemic raging at that time. Four graceful minarets soar to a height of 48.7m. above the ground. Charminar has 45 prayer spaces and a mosque in it. Visitors can view the architectural splendour inside the Charminar. The monument is illuminated in the evenings and a pedestrianisation project around the monument is under implementation.

Golconda Fort:
Golconda Fort
Originally a mud fort founded by the Kakatiya Kings of Warangal during the 13th century, Golconda attained glory under the Qutub Shahi dynasty (1518 to 1687). This is where the priceless Kohinoor diamond was found. One of the famous forts of India, an added attraction here is an enchanting sound & light show in the evenings. The newest attraction is the GPS video tour, 1st of its kind in the country. It brings alive the vivid image of the history and times of the glorious era. By taking the tour you not only have access to credible information authenticated by historians but also get to witness historic recreation of mega events and festivals, visuals of cordoned areas. In short, you literally ‘live through the time’.

Timings: 09.00 am - 5.00 pm (Closed on Monday)
Entry Fee: Rs. 10 for Indian Nationals, Rs. 100 for Foreign Nationals
Video: Rs. 25
Contact: +91 40 23512401

Sound & Light Show (Organised by APTDC:
Timings: All days 1st Show 7.00 pm to 8.00 pm (Nov to Feb); All days 2nd Show 8:15pm to 9:15 pm (Mon, Wed, Fri - Telugu Show; Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun - Hindi Show)
All days 1st Show 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm (March to October)
Entry Fee: VIP Class Rs. 100 (Adult) Rs.75 (Child) Non Executive: Rs.50 (Adult) Rs.30 (Child) Child is reckoned as 3 to 10 years.
Contact: +91 40 23451065, Salarjung Museum: +91 40 23453036

Qutb Shahi Tombs:
The tombs of the legendary Qutb Shahi kings lie about a kilometre away from Banjara Darwaza of the Golconda Fort. Planned and built by the Qutb Shahis themselves, these tombs are said to be the oldest historical monuments in Hyderabad. They form a large group and stand on a raised platform. The tombs are built in Persian, Pathan and Hindu architectural styles using grey granite, with stucco ornamentation, the only one of its kind in the world where an entire dynasty has been buried at one place.
Click here to see the virtual tour of Qutb Shahi Tombs

Taramati Baradari:
Taramati Baradari is an amalgation of the romance and the grace of the middle ages. The 7th Sultan of Golconda Abdullah Qutub Shah ode to his favorite courtesan Taramati through the Baradari the open pavilion with 12 doorways. The Taramati Baradari is a popular tourists attraction. It also houses hotel and an ultra modern convention and culture complex. The wide range of services at Taramati Baradari include Air Cooled Theatre with capacity of 500 people, Open Air Auditorium with capacity of 1600 people capacity, Banquet Hall with capacity of 250 people, Accommodation Unit, Board Rooms, Multi-Cuisine Restaurant, Bar, Swimming Pool / Billiards / Fitness Center, Two Green Rooms, and Food Courts.

Mecca Masjid:
A two hundred yards southwest of the Charminar is the Mecca Masjid, so named because the bricks were brought from Mecca to build the central arch. The Qutb Shahis never finished the building of the mosque, which was completed by Aurangzeb in 1694. Mecca Masjid is poetry in stone, with a hall measuring 67m and soaring to a height of 54m. Fifteen graceful arches - five to each of the three sides, support the roof. Towards the southern end of the mosque lie the marble graves of members of the Asaf Jahi dynasty.

Legislative Assembly:
Built in 1913, the building was originally the Hyderabad Town hall. The architecture is a synthesis of Rajasthani and Persian styles, with an all white, aesthetic look. Located adjoining the picturesque Public Gardens, a massive statue of Mahatma Gandhi in a sitting posture is erected at the entrance park to the Assembly.

Osmania University:
Established in 1918, it is one of the oldest universities in India. Named after Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan, the university buildings are splendid, especially the Arts College, which is a perfect example of Indo-Saracenic architecture.

Birla Mandir:
This white marble temple of Lord Venkateshwara floats on the city skyline, on Kala Pahad. The idol in the temple is a replica of the one at Tirupati.

Salar Jung Museum:
This museum houses one of the biggest one-man collections of antiques of the world by Mir Yousuf Ali Khan, Salar Jung III. The objects d’art include Persian carpets, Moghal miniatures, Chinese porcelain, Japanese lacquerware, famous statues including the Veiled Rebecca and Marguerite and Mephistopheles, a superb collection of jade, daggers belonging to Queen Noor Jahan and the Emperors Jahangir and Shah Jahan, Aurangzeb’s sword and many other fabulous items.

Andhra Pradesh State Archaeological Museum:
A visit to the Andhra Pradesh State Archaeological Museum is a delight for art lovers. Located in the picturesque Public Gardens, the museum boasts of one of the richest repositories of antiques and art objects in the country. Built in 1920 by the Nizam VII, the museum building itself is a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The museum contains a Buddhist gallery, Brahmanical & Jain gallery, Bronze gallery, Arms & Armour gallery, Numismatics gallery, Ajanta gallery and more. Adjacent to the State Museum is the Contemporary Art Museum.

The Nizam‘s Silver Jubilee Museum:
The stately Purani Haveli, the palace acquired around the year 1750 by the second Nizam, is now converted into a museum with a fascinating collection. The museum exhibits the gifts and mementos presented to the last Nizam on the occasion of the silver jubilee celebrations in 1937. A 1930 Rolls Royce, Packard and a Mark V Jaguar are among the vintage cars displayed. There is an interesting collection of models made in silver of all the prominent buildings of the city and citations in Urdu about H.E.H. Mir Osman Ali Khan, gold burnished wooden throne used for the silver jubilee celebrations, gold tiffin box inlaid with diamonds, and a gold model of Jubilee Pavilion.

Birla Planetarium/Birla Science Museum:
Birla Planetarium is India’s most modern planetarium and first of its kind in the country. It is equipped with advanced technology from Japan and is built on Naubat Pahad adjacent to Kala Pahad. And the Science Museum stands tribute to the advancement achieved by Science and Technology.

Chow Mohalla Complex:
Built in several phases by the Nizams between 1857-1869, this is now one of the heritage buildings. The complex comprises four palaces in Moghal and European styles, of which the main palace is double storeyed with the others being single-storeyed blocks.

Nehru Zoological Park:
Spanning 300 lush green acres, the Nehru Zoological Park is a must for nature lovers. It has over 250 species of animals and birds, most of which are kept in conditions as close to their natural habitats as possible. This is the first zoo to create moated enclosures for animals. The Lion Safari Park, Natural History Museum and Children’s Train are the added attractions. APTDC runs an ice-cream parlour and restaurant here.

Shilparamam - The Arts & Crafts village:
Another attraction at Madhapur beyond Jubilee Hills in Hyderabad is the 30-acre village, which showcases arts and crafts of the country. India is an ocean of various arts and crafts but the talent of most of the artisans and artists goes unrecognized. To encourage them and give the necessary boost to their art, the crafts village hosts annual bazaars, where artists and artisans from all over the country exhibit their talent.

Public Gardens
Hyderabad has several beautiful gardens, one of the most popular being the Public Gardens, which also encloses the State Legislature, State Archaeological Museum, Jubilee Hall, Jawahar Bal Bhavan and Telugu Lalita Kala Thoranam, an open-air theatre.
Boating: AP Tourism operates pedal boats in Public Gardens pond.

Ramoji Film City:
A dream world created for the celluloid on a sprawling 1000 acres, with every imaginable set and location, Ramoji Film City on the outskirts of Hyderabad offers facilities to produce any kind of movie. Apart from sets, there are hotels where artistes and technicians can stay. Visitors too can go round in conducted tours that the management organises.
Click here to see the virtual tour of Ramoji Film City

Hitec City:
One of the modern monuments of trade and technology, it embodies the newfound attitude of Hyderabad and today finds a place of pride. Situated on the outskirts of the city, it is the nucleus of Cyberabad, the IT destination in this part of the world. Cyber Towers is the main building here.

Lumbini Park:
This beautiful entertainment park is situated on the shore of Hussainsagar lake. The landscaping here is a visual treat. A musically synchronized water fountain and a floral clock are major attractions here. Lumbini Park jetty is a major point for pleasure boating of AP Tourism.

Hyderabad Botanical Gardens:
The first Botanical Gardens in Andhra Pradesh, spread over 120 acres. Already open to public is the first phase, with the completion of some sections. The sections include medicinal plants, timber trees, fruit trees, ornamental plants, aquatic plants and bamboos. The Park has been designed to have large water bodies, rolling meadows, natural forests, rich grasslands and exquisite rock formations.

Hussainsagar Lake:
Excavated in 1562 A.D. by Hussain Shah Wali during the time of Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah, the lake has a promenade that is a busy thoroughfare today. Boating and water sports are a regular feature in the Hussainsagar. One of the World’s tallest monolithic statues of the Buddha stands on the ‘Rock of Gibraltar’, in the middle of the lake.

Added to all these, AP Tourism has additional boating facilities like speed boats, motor boats, 48 seater launch etc. Starlit dinner on-board and private parties also can be arranged on the Launch.

Osmansagar Lake:
Osmansagar, better known as Gandipet, on the outskirts of Hyderabad is an excellent picnic spot. Osmansagar is one of the two lakes on the city’s periphery that supplies drinking water to the great metropolis. The lake is a reservoir created by a dam across the Isa, a tributary of the River Musi. Abutting the lake and the bund are lush gardens that provide the ideal ambience for an outing. Overlooking the lake is the heritage building, Sagar Mahal, built as a resort by the Nizam of Hyderabad and converted now into a lake resort managed by AP Tourism.

Shamirpet:
Located 24 km to the north of Secunderabad, Shamirpet has a beautiful lake and a deer park. Its peaceful environs make it a great picnic spot. AP Tourism offers comfortable cottage facilities for accommodation, while the forest
lodges can be booked with the AP Forest Department office at Saifabad.
Tourist Cottages.

Mir Alam Tank:
Mir Alam Tank is a large lake adjacent to Nehru Zoological Park. AP Tourism operates boats on the lake, for which one has to enter through the Zoo.

Secret Lake (Durgam Cheruvu):
The ‘Secret Lake’ is situated close to Shilparamam Crafts Village and Hitec City, behind Jubilee Hills. AP Tourism organizes boating in the lake. ‘Something Fishy’, a bar Secret Lake (Durgam Cheruvu)

KBR National Park:
One of the largest parks within the city KBR National Park is a Southern tropical deciduous forest and the last vestigial representative of the endemic flora of Hyderabad region, with over 100 species of birds, 20 species of reptiles and 15 species of butterflies.

Mrugavani National Park (Chilkur):
Located 25 km. from Hyderabad, the park contains the endemic flora of Hyderabad and is an urban refuge for small mammals like wildboar, jungle cat etc. and birds.

Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park:
Located 15 Km. from Hyderabad, the park has more than 350 black bucks, 400 cheetals and a number of wild boars, small mammals, reptiles and over 100 species of
birds.

Resorts & Theme Parks

Ocean Park:
Ocean Park is located at Gandipet, 15 km from Hyderabad, in 20 acres of landscaped gardens. It provides a number of amusement rides, water rides and
is equipped with facilities like multi-cuisine restaurant.
Tel: +91-040-23225660/23223824,
Website: www.oceanparkindia.com

Snow World:
It is the World’s biggest and India’s 1st Snow Theme Park. The visitors can chill out at minus 5°C and go merry with SNOW and have a SNOW-FILLED fun holiday. The Snw Park has achieved yet another milestone by introducing Snow Fall, this is the first of its kind of Snow Fall introduced by any Snow Theme Park or Snow Dome anywhere in the world. Slide and skate on ice and throw snowballs at each other, Enjoy India’s first snow park.
Tel: +91-040-27677948, Website: www.snowworldindia.com

Treasure Island:
A picturesque holiday spot, the Treasure Island, located on 60 acres of landscape at Gandipet, offers a variety of leisure and fun oriented activities - horse riding, billiards, disco, go-karting, swimming pool and so on. Night stay facilities are available for Members
Tel: +91-040-23323330

Dhola-ri-Dhani:
This is a typical setting recreated with the entire rustic ambience and charm of an ethnic Rajasthani village, situated at Kompally on Medchal Road. Camel rides, puppet shows, folk dances and authentic Rajasthani cuisine give you the taste of the desert State. A large swimming pool, a lake to go boating, an amphitheatre for plays and entertainment programmes add to the ambience. Conferencing and night stay facilities available.
Tel: +91-40-27721586, 27845911, Website: www.dholaridhani.com

Pragati Green Meadows & Resorts:
PRAGATI Resorts is in 85 acres surrounded by lush green area of 2500 acres with full-fledged amenities including Wi-Fi and lot of recreational facilities enjoyable for all age groups. The resort is surrounded by 25 lakh aroma plants covering mostly Indian heritage flowering trees, tropical plants and more than 650 varieties of medicinal herbs which brings people closer to wellness and good health. Pushpa Ayurveda is the future alternative medicine, by inhaling directly aroma flowers and leaves of sacred and Indian heritage plants makes diseased free and soothening of all your senses. Resort is totally mosquito free. A place with Eco & Bio Friendly Ambience.

Accommodation & Resort Facilities : Total 83 rooms capacity (Individual Cottages, Deluxe Cottages, Lagoon Executive Suites) Conference Halls, Club House, Coffee Shop, Restaurants, Open Lawn Area, Children Park, Swimming Pool, Health Spa, Open Amphi Mega Theatre, Wi-Fi.
Department of Tourism, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh has awarded as a "High Standard Luxury Eco Friendly Resort". Situated on the way to Chilkur Balaji Temple and close to “City's heart” For more imformation download pdf
CONTACT DETAILS:
Resort Ph: +91-9848910056, 8417-224111-13 | Guest Relationship Center: +91-9948437707, 40-23557266-77
Residential plot Bookings: +91-9848799189 | Corporate Office Ph: +91-40-23553183-86
Corporate Office:
Door No.271/A, Road No.10, Jubilee Hills,
Hyderabad - 500 033, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Ph: +91 + 40 - 23553183/84/85/36
Fax : +91 - 40 - 23553187
Email: rao@pragatigroup.com
Website: www.pragatiresorts.com

Dream Valley Resorts:
Nestled amidst lush green environs and located at Gandipet, Dream Valley Resorts is a water theme park with waterslide, cascading waterfalls, water squirts, a 9-hole golf course and go-karting track.
Tel: +91-040-5578 2686 / 3686, Website: www.dreamvalleygroup.com

Aalankrita-the Ethnic Gateway:
Spread over an area of 10 acres, Aalankrita blends the convenience of a 4-star resort, the ambience of a heritage Aalankrita - the ethnic gateway site and the ethnicity of the times gone by. Located about 16 km from Secunderabad, the facilities here include an air-conditioned conference hall, Restaurant, Meditation Centre, a covered swimming pool for day and night use, dancing floor, air-conditioned cottages, an antique shop, exhibition hall, walkways and a sprawling open air theatre that can accommodate about 3000 people.
Tel: +91-08418-309999, Website: www.aalankrita.com

Mount Opera:
It is a huge multi-theme' park. Far from the hustle and bustle of the busy city, this amusement part that offers a variety of entertainment and leisure activities for the entire family. Built on a 50-acre plot, the park has special packages for corporates and non-resident Indians.
Tel: +91-40-30412345, 6678872, Website: www.mountopera.com

Leo Meridian Resort
Luxurious urban resort offering exquisitely designed and well appointed 82 ultra - luxury rooms and 6 suites. Other offering at at the resort include 28 recently upgraded, state - of - the - art conference and convention facilities of varying capacities, a Spa, Fitness and Saloon facility, and an ultra modern 350 seat cinema and sports complex.
Tel: +91-40-30601072, Website: www.leocorp.in/lcc/

GolKonda Resorts & Spa
A state-of-the-art leisure resort-cum-spa, Golkonda Resorts and Spa offers grand luxury villas, club cars to explore and enjoy 12 acres of the resort set in natural green settings. There are very well designed 44 rooms in the form of luxurious villas. Every villa is centrally air-conditioned with 24 hour room service, 24 hours hot and cold running water, wi-fi connectivity and Internet data ports. Extensive banqueting and conferencing facilities, restaurants and bars are the other facilities at the Resort.
Tel: +91-40-24193000 to 16, Website: www.golkondaresorts.com

Celebrity Club
Located on the outskirts of Hyderabad, Celebrity Club is a family entertainment centre offering luxury cottages with landscaped gardens. The facilities include Barbeque, Bar, Restaurant, swimming pool, golf course, horse riding and video games arcade.
Tel: +91-40-24751717

Lahari Resorts
Lahari Resorts is a perfect destination for both business and pleasure. The Resort is spread over 35 Acres with shimmering water bodies, water fountains, flowerbeds, lawns and paving sculptures, adorning the topography. It boasts of an international standard cricket stadium, swimming pools, rain dance floors and water slides. It also has three restaurants, a three lane bowling alley, a paintball field, beach volleyball court with gaming arcade and dry slides for children. Add to that a discotheque, a state-of-the-art gym and a hotel with 59 centrally air-conditioned luxurious rooms and suites. To cater to business needs, there are five conference halls, which can seat anywhere between 20 to 200 people and are supported by advanced audio-visual facilities. The resort also has an Event Arena for large format events like wedding and corporate family days, and can seat upto 5000 people.
Tel: +91-40-2354 3062, 2354 3025, Website: www.lahariresorts.com

Dining

Hyderabadi Food

Biryani - The one word that visitors to this famous city think of. Biryani is one of the oldest and most popular specialities of Hyderabad. The best quality rice is used to cook the biryani layered with meat and spices. The edges of the vessel are sealed with dough to keep the aroma inside and give 'dum’ (strength)' to the cooking rice and meat.

Though a well-cooked biryani can be eaten without any accompaniment, people prefer to garnish it with 'Mirchi-ka-Salan', a thick gravy made with chillies, tamarind extract and spices. Mirchi-ka-Salan is a 'hot favourite' with vegetarians too. Another dish relished by both the vegetarian and non-vegetarian revelers is the 'Bagara Baingan', spicy curried brinjals.

A typical Hyderabadi feast has biryani, large portions of curried chicken eaten with 'sheermal' or local bread, minced meat, vegetarian dishes and a sweet. The sweet is usually 'Qubani-ka-meetha' made with dried apricots, 'Double-ka-meetha', a bread and milk pudding. During the holy month of Ramzan, a special dish, "Haleem", is prepared with punded meet and wheat and delicately spiced.

Restaurants in Hyderabad

Hyderabadi Food Restaurants

Multi-Cuisine Restaurants

Fast Food Centers in Hyderabad

Coffee Shops

Entertainment

The city of Hyderabad offers multiple options for entertainment and leisure. It is proliferated with Resorts, Amusement parks, Theme parks, Cultural centers, Sports clubs, Golf courses, Pubs & discotheques and more. The city offers entertainment facilities that are on par with the best in the World, making living in the city a sheer joy.

Snow World:

It is the World’s biggest and India’s 1st Snow Theme Park. The visitors can chill out at minus 5°C and go merry with SNOW and have a SNOW-FILLED fun holiday. The Snw Park has achieved yet another milestone by introducing Snow Fall, this is the first of its kind of Snow Fall introduced by any Snow Theme Park or Snow Dome anywhere in the world. Slide and skate on ice and throw snowballs at each other, Enjoy India’s first snow park.

Tel: +91-040-27677948
Website: www.snowworldindia.com

Yogi Bear Park:

Yogi Bear offers miniature golf, as one of the many ways to keep you and your child happily occupied.Groups of four can tee off on this 19-hole course, which is remodelled every 6 months to put in new obstacles. All golfing equipment is provided by the park.For children, there are other distractions like a skating rink, a romping ground and a camping club - there's also an enclosure for spirited toddlers to run loose. Skating, with or without a trainer, is open only on weekends. The park also organises birthday parties and summer camps.Thanks to the child-friendly play areas and equipment, parents can relax the eagle-eye attitude and actually do something fun.

Tel: +91 9849777811, +91 9985821709
email: yogibear.corpevents@gmail.com
Website: www.yogibearminigolfpark.com

Dialogue in the Dark:

Dialogue in the Dark is a unique experience that no one can miss. It has India’s only exhibition and restaurant in complete darkness! A fun, entertaining and engaging experience that will leave you with long lasting memories. Dialogue has recreated real life experiences like walking in a park, crossing a shaking bridge, going to a supermarket, having a boat ride and eating in a café – all in complete darkness! With your tour guides and dining waiters being visually impaired, a whole role reversal happens where the masters of darkness take over. Dialogue has had over 8000 visitors in Hyderabad in just 100 days since its opening. Globally, over 6.5 million visitors in 110 cities and 30 countries have experienced Dialogue in the Dark!

Click here to visit the website: www.dialogueinthedarkindia.com

IMAX® Theatre:

This facility houses South India’s first IMAX theatre called Prasad IMAX Theatre. IMAX, a brand that is recognized worldwide for high quality family entertainment, is the most vivid and immersive film experience available. The Prasad IMAX theatre has a seating capacity of 635 and every seat in this theatre is considered the best seat. This Multiplex facility also houses a state-of-the-art five screen Multiplex with a combined capacity of 1800 seats. Equipped with the latest sound and projection technology, the theatres will offer plush, comfortable and world-class ambience. Hyderabad’s first Food Court will provide a sumptuous spread of multi-cuisine food interspersed with fast food outlets, coffee bars etc., setting a new benchmark in ‘Eatatainament’. Provides Shopping with the best domestic and international retailers, spread over three floors of approximately 70,000 sq.ft of air-conditioned retail space summing up the statement The Experience…

Tel : 91 – 40 – 23448888
email : info@prasadz.com
Website: www.prasadz.com

Jalavihar
Bang in the middle of Necklace Road is Jalavihar. Screams and laughter reach you even before you see the place. A relatively massive entrance greets you here.Jalavihar is a water park equipped with a swimming pool, water slides, faux bungee jumping game and a couple of other games. It also has a restaurant. It is open from 2 PM to 7.30 PM on weekdays and 11 AM to 8 PM on weekends

Tel: (040) 25503106, 65581143

Enquiries may be made from residing hotels for further details on the entertainment facilities available in the City

Tourist GuidesBharath Bushan
H.No. 409, Inderalok Complex,
Road No. 1, Banjara Hills
Hyderabad – 500034
Tel: +91-40-23395181,
Cell: +91 9849052504

D. Vijaya Kumar
H.No.18-3-3/7, Laldarwaja,
Behind Chatrinka PS Hyderabad
Tel: +91-40-24381812

D. Ramlingam
6-3-192,
Jainagar Colony, New Bhoiguda,
Secunderabad – 500080
Tel: +91-40-27537756 (pp)

G. Sudhir Kumar Seth
H.No. 1-2-366/172, Domalguda,
Gaganmahal, Street No. – 05/ lane-01,
Himayatnagar, Hyderabad – 500029.
Cell: +91 9885257741

G.V.Bhaskar Rao
313,S.K.Apartments,
Indira Nagar, Vijayanagar colony
Hyderabad
Tel: +91-40-27542754

G. Yashwanth Rao
Plot No. 153/A, Flat No. 204,
Priyanka Apartments,
Bagh Ameer,Ayyappa Swamy Temple Road,
Kukatpally,Hyderabad – 500072.
Tel: +91-40-23068294

J. Bhaskar Reddy
H.No.2-1-18/16/B,
Mamtha Nagar, Nagole,
Hyderabad –500068.
Tel: +91-40-24057479

J. K. Anand
S/o. Keshav,
7-781, C-23, HUDA Colony,
Saroornagar, Hyderabad – 35.
Tel: +91-40-24048317

K. Malarkodi
S/o P. Karuppiah,
15-21-150/55, Balaji Nagar,
Kukatpally,
Hyderabad – 500072

K. Padma Nabha Raju
H.No. 1-10-6, Temple Alwal,
Secunderabad – 500010
Tel: +91-40-27960061,
Cell: +91 9849852702

K. Ravi
Plot No.634,
H.M.T.Hills colony,
Opp. JNTU, Kukatpally,
Hyderabd – 500072
Tel: +91-40-23053143/ 55286674

K. Santhosh
S/o. K. Marasaimha,
8-3-228/678/263, Rahmath Nagar,
Yousufguda, Hyderabad.
Cell: +91 9848503839

Layaq Ali Khan
PB 1413, Humayun Nagar,
Hyderabad – 500 028
Cell: +91 9440409970.

Md. Asif Khan
S/o Aslam Khan,
11-4-633/4 II Floor, Basers Apartments,
A.C. Guards, Hyderabad – 500004
Tel: +91-40-23304658/ 32342828S.

Md. Gouse Mohiuddin
S/o Abdul Raheem,9-10-68/A/ 135,
Resham Bagh, Golconda Fort,
Hyderabad – 500008
Tel: +91-40-55125293.

M. D. Khaja Moinuddin
C/o. M.d.Hidayathur Rahman
Ho.No.2-3-604/A/1Patel Nagar,
Ahmednagar, Amberpet,
Hyderabad – 500013
Tel: +91-40-23450444

Md. Mohiuddin
IC 70 Gout Qtrs, Errum Manzil colony
Hyderabad
Tel: +91-40-23305190

Md. Ziaul Hassan Hashmi
S/o Syed Hasan Hashmi,
H. No. 6-3-1243/159,
M.S. Maqtha, Opp. Rajbhavan,
Hyderabad – 500 082
Cell: +91 9849803227, +91 9440057481

M. Murali Krishna
H. No. 8-4-549/10, Nethaji Nagar Colony,
Erragadda, Hyderabad
Tel: +91-40-32366584

N. Madhulatha
C/o. NMV Saradhi
H.No. 398 E.Ws, K.P.H.B. Colony,
Hyderabad
Tel: +91 9848441528

Prabhakar
223/LIGH, Old Santosh Nagar Colony,
Hyderabad – 500659
Tel: +91-40-27801614

P. Sudhakara Charry
H.No.8-3-228, 670-503/A
Karmikanagar,
Yousufguda, Hyderabad
Cell: +91 9849372365

Raize Kubra
S.P. Nagar,S-14, Sandhya Apartments,
Moula Ali, Hyderabad – 40
Tel: +91-40-27138920

Rajendra Prasad
C/o. Jahangir,2-2-1107/74,
Thilaknagar, Hyderabad.
Tel: +91-40-32366178

T. Balakrishna
S/o. TY Sambaiah,
1-2-56/76, Advocates Colony,
Domaluguda, Hyderabad – 500029.
Tel: +91-40-27640076

Venkateswara Rao
964/102, Lotus view Apts.,
New Bhoiguda, Secunderabad
Tel: +91-40-27534558 / 27627807 / 23412266

V. Radhika
Plot No. 120
A,Near Nagarjuna High School,
Rajeev Nagar, Yousufguda,
Hyderabad
Cell: +91 9849501720

Y. H. Pavan Kumar
H.No.920, Street No.17,
Gandinagar, Hyderabad – 80
Tel: +91-40-27535721

Fairs & Festivals

2011-08-18T08:40:00.001-07:00

The Colourful mosaic of Indian festivals and fairs - as diverse as the land, is an eternal expression of the spirit of celebration. Observed with enthusiasm and gaiety, festivals are like gems ornamenting the crown of Indian Culture. They are round the year vibrant interludes in the mundane routine of life.

Every season brings along new festivals, each a true celebration of the bounties of the rich traditions followed for time immemorial. That's not all! The birthdays of Gods and Goddesses, saints and prophets, great historical happenings and the advent of the New Year, all find expression in colourful festivities. The same festival, though celebrated differently in the various parts of the country, exhibits an eternal harmony of the spirit of celebration.

Packed with fun and excitement, festivals serve as an occasion to clean and decorate houses, to get together with friends and relatives and to exchange gifts. New attire, dance, music and rituals- all add to their joyful rhythm. It is a time for prayer, for pageantry and procession…a time to rejoice, in celebration of life.

Art & Culture

2011-08-18T08:37:00.002-07:00

Art & Culture

Classical Dance and Music

Indian Classical Dance "..abstraction of Upanishadic thought which is assiduously translated in to well designed concrete language of artistic media."

It all started with Natya Shastra

Said to be written 2000 years ago by Bharata Muni, it is the seminal source book for dancers and performers. The mammoth book covers all technical and aesthetic aspects of the art of the Indian Theatre and Dance.

From the purpose of natya, to the architectural format, stage rituals, Rasa, Bhava, Abhinaya, gestic communication, music, types of instruments. 37 chapters that together form the nucleus of this fascinating performing art. Later century works like Abhinaya Darpana, Abhinaya Chandrike, also have great relevance to the dancer today.

Legend has it that the Devas (Gods) had vanquished the Asuras (Evil) and were relating the happenings to Brahma, the God of Creation. The Asuras thought this was a renewed attack and retaliated. Brahma intervened - "This is only a performance, hence forth it will only be held on earth".

And Brahma passed on all the information on Dance and Drama to Bharata Muni who compiled it as the Natya Shastra.

Sculpture Comes To Life

Temples were raised to the house the Gods and became the focal point for the community. They also became centres of learning and contributed to the advancement of such arts as sculpture, painting, music and dance. Mostly built by Kings, who were also the patrons of arts, encouraging a continuity and enriching rituals of worship, the earliest basis of the classical performing arts.

It was from the temple that the Devdasi cult (Temple Dancers who performed for the Lord) began. Once a practice countrywide - the Kulvantalu in Andhra Pradesh, the Maibi in Manipur, the Devdasi in Tamil Nadu and the Mahari in Orissa, all trace their roots to the temple. The countless sculptures of dance poses in the temples, hint at the potency of dance as a path to spiritual exaltation and lays out a complete lexicon of dance techniques.

For instance, it is said that the greater part of vocabulary of Odissi dance is preserved in stone.

A rich heritage to be brought alive by the artist.

People & Lifestyle

2011-08-18T08:37:00.001-07:00

In a country as diverse and complex as India, it is not surprising to find that people here reflect the rich glories of the past, the culture, traditions and values relative to geographic locations and the numerous distinctive manners, habits and food that will always remain truly Indian. According to five thousand years of recorded history.

From the eternal snows of the Himalayas to the cultivated peninsula of far South, from the deserts of the West to the humid deltas of the East, from the dry heat and cold of the Central Plateau to the cool forest foothills, Indian lifestyles clearly glorify the geography. The food, clothing and habits of an Indian differ in accordance to the place of origin.

Indians believe in sharing happiness and sorrow. A festival or a celebration is never constrained to a family or a home. The whole community or neighbourhood is involved in bringing liveliness to an occasion. A lot of festivals like Diwali, Holi, Id, Christmas, Mahaveer Jayanthi are all celebrated by sharing sweets and pleasantries with family, neighbours and friends. An Indian wedding is an occasion that calls for participation of the family and friends. Similarly, neighbours and friends always help out a family in times of need.

Ethnically Indians speak different languages, follow different religions, eat the most diverse varieties of food all of which add to the rich Indian culture.The beauty of the Indian people lies in the spirit of tolerance, give-and-take and a composition of cultures that can be compared to a garden of flowers of various colours and shades of which, while maintaining their own entity, lend harmony and beauty to the garden - India!

Geography

2011-08-18T08:34:00.001-07:00

India is set apart from the rest of Asia by the Himalayas, the highest, youngest and still evolving mountain chain on the planet. The subcontinent as it is rightly called, touches three large water bodies and is immediately recognizable on any world map. This thick, roughly triangular peninsula defines the Bay of Bengal to the east, the Arabian sea to the west, and the India Ocean to the south.

India holds virtually every kind of landscape imaginable. An abundance of mountain ranges and national parks provide ample opportunity for eco-tourism and trekking, and its sheer size promises something for everyone. From north to south India extends a good 2000 miles (3200 km), where the island nation of Sri Lanka seems to be squeezed out of India like a great tear, the synapse forming the Gulf of Mannar.

Himalayas, the world's highest mountain chain and Nepal as its Neighbouring country dominate India's northern border. Following the sweeping mountains to the northeast, its borders narrow to a small channel that passes between Nepal, Tibet, Bangladesh, and Bhutan, then spreads out again to meet Burma in the "eastern triangle." Apart from the Arabian Sea, its western border is defined exclusively by Pakistan.

North India is the country's largest region begins with Jammu and Kashmir, with terrain varying from arid mountains in the far north to the lake country and forests near Srinagar and Jammu. Moving south along the Indus river, the North becomes flatter and more hospitable, widening into the fertile plains of Punjab to the west and the Himalayan foothills of Uttar Pradesh and the Ganges river valley to the East. Cramped between these two states is the capital city, Delhi.

The states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, and part of the massive, central state of Madhya Pradesh constitute West India. Extending from the Gujarat peninsula down to Goa, the west coast is lined with some of India's best beaches. The land along the coast is typically lush with rainforests. The Western Ghats separate the verdant coast from the Vindya Mountains and the dry Deccan plateau further inland.

India is the home of the sacred River Ganges and the majority of Himalayan foothills, East India begins with the states of Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Orissa, which comprise the westernmost part of the region. East India also contains an area known as the eastern triangle, which is entirely distinct. This is the last gulp of land that extends beyond Bangladesh, culminating in the Naga Hills along the Burmese border.

India reaches its peninsular tip with South India, which begins with the Deccan in the north and ends with Cape Comorin. The states in South India are Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, a favourite leisure destination. The southeast coast, mirroring the west, also rests snugly beneath a mountain range---the Eastern Ghats.

History

2011-08-18T08:33:00.001-07:00

Nearly five thousand years back flourished India's first major civilisation along the Indus River valley. The twin cities of Mohenjodaro and Harappa now in Pakistan were ruled by priests and held the rudiments of Hinduism. These civilisations are known to possess a sophisticated lifestyle, a highly developed sense of aesthetics, an astonishing knowledge of town planning and an undecipherable script language. The Indus civilization at one point of time extended nearly a million square kilometres across the Indus river valley. It existed at the same time as the ancient civilizations of Egypt and Sumer but far outlasted them. Surviving for nearly a thousand years the Indus valley civilisation fell to tectonic upheavals in about 1700 BC, which caused a series of floods.

The coming of the Aryans around 1500 BC, gave the final blow to the collapsing Indus Valley civilisation. At the dawn of Vedic ages the Aryans came in from the North and spread through large parts of India bringing with them their culture and religious beliefs. The Four Vedas or the important books of Hinduism were compiled in this period.

In 567 B.C. the founder of the Buddhist Religion Gautama Buddha was born. During this time lived Mahavira, who founded the Jain Religion. The Indian subcontinent is full of caves and monuments devoted to these religions and are worth a visit.

Two hundred years later, in the 4th century B.C., Emperor Ashoka, one of the greatest King of Indian history, led the Mauryan Empire to take over almost all of what is now modern India. This great leader embraced Buddhism and built the group of monuments at Sanchi (a UNESCO world heritage site). The Ashoka pillar at Sarnath has been adopted by India as its national emblem and the Dharma Chakra on the Ashoka Pillar adorns the National Flag.

They were followed by the Guptas in the north, while in the south part of India several different Hindu empires, the Cholas, the Pandyas and the Cheras spread and grew, trading with Europe and other parts of Asia till the end of the 1100s.

Christianinty entered India at about the same time from Europe. Legend has it that St. Thomas the Apostle arrived in India in 52 A.D. Even earlier than that people of the Jewish religion arrived on India's shores.

In approximately the 7th century A.D. a group of Zoroastrians, or Parsees, landed in Gujarat and became a part of the large mix of religions in India today, each of which adds its important and distinctive flavour.

In the 15th century Guru Nanak laid the foundation of the Sikh religion in Punjab.

In 1192, Mohammed of Ghori, a ruler from Afghanistan, came into India and captured several places in the north including Delhi. When he went home he left one of his generals in charge who became the first Sultan of Delhi. During this time Islam, was introduced into a major part of Northern India. It may be mentioned that even before that, just after the period of the prophet, Islam was brought to the western coast of India by Arab traders and flourished in what is now Kerala.

The Dehli Sultanate gradually took control of more and more of North India over the next 200 years, till Timur, who was called "Timur the Lame" or "Tamberlane" came from Turkey in 1398 to attack India. He and his army stole all the valuables that they could carry and left again, and after that the Delhi Sultanate was never so strong again. Soon the Mughals, who were from Iran, came in and took control of the north.

In the meantime south , in 1336, the Hindu Vijayanagar empire was set up and became very strong.

The Europeans - Portuguese, French, Dutch, Danish and British - started arriving in the early 1600s. All of them held territories in India and made friends and enemies among India's rulers as they got more and more involved, with the Indian politics, but it was the British who eventually controlled most of India and finally made it one of their colonies.

India got its independence from Britain in 1947 after a long struggle led mostly by Mahatma Gandhi. In the process of becoming independent, India became, two countries instead of one. In the years since independence India has made huge progress and coped with great problems, and has developed its industry and its agriculture, and has maintained a system of government which makes it the largest democracy in the world.


Places to visit	Km
Dhankar monastery	34
Gete	24
Langza	18
Hikkim	28
Comic	31
Keylong	197
Kibber	19
Kungri	40
Kunzum pass	78
Kye monastery	12
Losar	60
Manali	200
Tabo monastery	50
Thang Yug Gompa	13
Mud

India Incredible

Kaziranga National Park

Travel - Sipti

Distances from Kaza

Travel - Shimla

Distances from Shimla

Travel - Shimla

Distances from Shimla

Travel - Jammu & Kashmir

Travel - Goa

Travel - Mumbai

Travel - Visakhapatnam

Travel Hyderabad

Fairs & Festivals

Art & Culture

People & Lifestyle

Geography

History