TOURISM ZONE

Rainbow's End (Theme Park)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 5 Sep 2010 05:48:00 -0700

Rainbow's End is a theme park in Auckland, New Zealand that opened in December, 1982. The park, wholly owned subsidiary of New Zealand Experience Ltd, is currently New Zealand's largest theme park. The park currently employs between 50 and 200 staff both full time and part time depending on the time of year. Its main attraction is New Zealands only Corkscrew Roller Coaster.

Rainbow's End Auckland Theme Park Rides

Power Surge – You'll be seated with your feet dangling below you as this intense thrill ride whirls you around in the air, spinning you in many different directions, flipping and twisting you as well as giving you the ultimate sense of freefalling!
Scorpion Karts – 2008 brings something very exciting. We have all new Scorpion Karts. Pure single-seater racing fun!
Dodgems – Our undercover dodgems are a very popular attraction, line up someone you don't like the look of and crash into them!
Cadbury Land Castle – This are is specially designed for our younger guests with a host or rides to keep them happy. Areas in the castle can be hired for under five birthday parties.
Corkscrew Roller Coaster – New Zealand's only corkscrew coaster. We take you up more than 90 feet in the air, then send you shooting down towards the ground into a complete loop, round a corner at teeth-rattling speed and then into a double corkscrew!
Goldrush – An exciting roller coaster-like ride through our very own abandoned goldmine. Watch out for falling beams, cave-ins, explosions and out of control mine karts!
Log Flumes – The Enchanted Forest log flume is one of our most popular rides, taking you and your friends on a magical ride through a waterfall and deep into the heart of a mountain. Watery twists and turns and hold on for the big plunge at the end of your ride!
Fear Fall – At 18 stories high, the ride takes two cars of four seated riders, each on a controlled ascent to the top of the tower, pause them for a few seconds and then drop them...reaching speeds of 80 kilometres per hour before a patented magnetic braking system brings them gently to the ground!
Family Karts – Show mum and dad what you're made of! Speed through our specially designed course full of twists and turns in these two seater races.
Pirate Ship – Ahoy there me hearties! A rollicking good ride on a galleon from old. For the best ride, sit in the last seats at the bow and stern and lift your arms in the air and your feet off the ground—if you dare!
Bumper Boats – Great fun on a hot day. Tear around the course in the bumper boat of your choice.
Motion Master – An interactive virtual theatre experience not to be missed. This ride has two rows of 12 seated riders watching a large screen. The chairs are hydraulically controlled and move in time to the on-screen action. New in 2008—Motion Master is in 3D now!

Rainbow's End Cuisine
We have a great range of meal options for your function. A mouth-watering selection of traditional theme park fare is available throughout the park from a number of outlets, everything from candy floss to hot dogs and hamburgers.
Rainbow's End Business Facilities
Put some serious oomph into your next conference! Conventional meeting rooms as well as the distinctive Golf Harbour Conference Village complex.
We can cater for groups between six and sixty and our packages are tailor-made incorporating all your day's needs including rides and refreshments. Did you know, you can also hire the park for an exclusive night function for your team (minimum attendance 150 people).
For further information about our Auckland attraction, please contact us or visit our Auckland theme park Web site.

Robben Island

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 4 Sep 2010 23:56:00 -0700

Robben Island (Afrikaans Robbeneiland) is an island in Table Bay, some seven kilometres off the coast of the Cape Town bay, South Africa and is located at 33.806734° S 18.366222° ECoordinates: 33.806734° S 18.366222° E. The name is Dutch for "seal island". (Incidentally, "Seal Island" is a different island in nearby False Bay.) Robben Island is roughly oval in shape and about a kilometre wide. It is flat and only a few metres above sea level, as a result of an ancient erosion event. The island is composed of Precambrian metamorphic rocks belonging to the Malmesbury Group. It is of particular note as it was here that former South African President and Nobel Laureate Nelson Mandela, alongside many other political prisoners, spent decades imprisoned during the apartheid era.

All the land on the island is owned by the State, with the exception of the island church.
Today the island is a popular tourist destination and was declared a World Heritage Site in 1999. It is reached by ferry from the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town and is open throughout the year, weather permitting, and tours of the island and prison are led by guides who were formerly prisoners there. Robben Island Museum (RIM) operates as a site or living museum

Puerto Vallarta

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 4 Sep 2010 23:52:00 -0700

PUERTO VALLARTA is smaller, quieter and younger than Acapulco. In its own way, it is actually every bit as commercial – perhaps more so, since here tourism is virtually the only source of income – but appearances count for much, and Puerto Vallarta, while doing all it can to catch up with Acapulco, appears far less developed and retains a more Mexican feel.

It lies in the middle of the 22-kilometre wide Bahía de Banderas, the seventh largest bay in the world, fringed by endless sandy beaches and backed by the jungly slopes of the Sierra Madre. Its hotels are scattered along several miles of coast with the greatest concentration in Nuevo Vallarta, north of the town and sliced through by an eight-lane strip of asphalt. Just south of Nuevo Vallarta is the new marina, where you can stroll along the boardwalk and have a look at how the other half live, on beautiful boats. Despite the frantic development of the last decade, the historic town centre, with its cobbled streets and white-walled, terracotta-roofed houses, sustains the tropical village atmosphere, an asset assiduously exploited by the local tourist authorities.

The town's relative youth is undoubtedly a contributing factor. Until 1954 Puerto Vallarta was a small fishing village where the Río Cuale spills out into the Bahía de Banderas; then Mexicana airlines, their hand forced by Aeroméxico's monopoly on flights into Acapulco, started promoting the town as a resort. Their efforts received a shot in the arm in 1964, when John Huston chose Mismaloya, 10km south, as the setting for his film of Tennessee Williams' play The Night of the Iguana, starring Richard Burton. The scandalmongering that surrounded Burton's romance with Elizabeth Taylor – who was not part of the cast but came along – is often attributed to putting Puerto Vallarta firmly in the international spotlight: "a mixed blessing" according to Huston, who stayed on here until his death in 1987, and whose bronze image stands on the Isla Río Cuale in town.

Boracay Island

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 4 Sep 2010 23:50:00 -0700

Boracay is a tropical island located approximately 315km (200 miles) south of Manila and 2km off the northwest tip of the island of Panay in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. It is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. The island comprises the barangays of Manoc-Manoc, Balabag, and Yapak (3 of the 17 barangays which make up the municipality of Malay), and is under the administrative control of the Philippine Tourism Authority in coordination with the Provincial Government of Aklan.

Boracay Island is located off the northwest corner of the island of Panay, and belongs to the Western Visayas island-group, or Region VI, of the Philippines. The island is approximately seven kilometers long, dog-bone shaped with the narrowest spot being less than one kilometer wide, and has a total land area of 10.32 square kilometers.South-facing Cagban Beach is located across a small strait from the jetty port at Caticlan on Panay island, and the Cagban jetty port serves as Boracay’s main entry and exit point during most of the year. When wind and sea conditions dictate, east-facing Tambisaan Beach serves as an alternative entry and exit point.Boracay’s two primary tourism beaches, White Beach and Bulabog Beach, are located on opposite sides of the island’s narrow central area. White Beach faces westwards and Bulabog Beach faces eastwards. The island also has several other beaches.White Beach is the main tourism beach. It is a bit over four kilometers long and is lined with resorts, hotels, lodging houses, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses. In the central portion, for about two kilometers, there is a footpath known as the Beachfront Path separating the beach itself from the establishments located along it. North and south of the Beachfront Path, beachfront establishments do literally front along the beach itself. Several roads and paths connect the Beachfront Path with Boracay’s Main Road, a vehicular road which runs the length of the island. At the extreme northern end of White Beach, a footpath runs around the headland there and connects White Beach with Diniwid Beach.

Alibag or Alibaug Beach

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 2 Aug 2010 02:19:00 -0700

Alibag or Alibaug is a coastal town and a municipal council in Raigad District in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, India. It is headquarters of the Raigad district. It's best known for its historic marine forts, fine beaches and clean water. It The town and its surrounding villages are the historic hinterland of Bene Israeli Jews. There is a Synagogue in the "Israel Ali" area of the town.

How to get there by Air

The closest International Airport is Mumbai. Alibag is 108 km from Mumbai by road, a journey of 3 hours via Navi Mumbai.

How to get there by Rail

Konkan Railway trains from CST Mumbai stop at Pen, 28 km from Alibag, from where you can take a bus, autorickshaw or taxi.

How to get there by Bus

Alibag is 108 km from Mumbai by road, a journey of 3 hours via Navi Mumbai. The quickest way to get there however would be to catch a ferry from Gateway Of India.

Best time to Visit

Almost any time of the year is a good time to visit if you don''t mind the hot weather in the summer months. The monsoon months should be avoided as getting around may be seriously compromised because of heavy rainfall.

History:

Alibag was developed in 17th Century by Sarkhel Kanhoji Aangre the naval chief of King Shivaji's Kingdom. Alibag is costal town and municipal council in Raigad district in Kokan region of Maharashtra, India. It is headquarter of the Raigad district. Raigad's first name was "Kulaba". Today's Ramnath was the main village at that time. There were gardens of Ali who is rich man so the area is known as Alibag. Ali have lot of Mango Tree, Coconut Tree in the gardens so local people are called to the place name is alichi bag(Gardens)and formally and officially speaks the Name Alibag.

List Of Beaches:

Alibag beach: This is the main beach of the town.
THAL beach: Isolated Beach 5 Kms from Alibag.
Varsoli Beach:Located about a mile from the main beach, home to a very large naval base.
Akshi Beach: It is situated 8 km away from Alibag.
Nagaon beach: It is situated about 10 km away from Alibag and is famous for coconuts and betel nuts.
Kihim-Navgaon Beach: Kihim is a secluded place at a distance of 12 km from Alibag. The Kihim beach is famous for dense cover of Coconut trees. It is also famous[citation needed] for woods which are home to rare butterflies, birds and flowers.
Awas: It is situated about 16 km away from Alibag.
Saswane: It is situated about 18 km away from Alibag.
Rewas: It is situated about 24 km away from Alibag.
Chaul Revdanda: It is situated about 17 km away from Alibag.
Mandawa: It is situated about 20 km north of Alibag. The catamaran/ferry services are available from Mumbai to the Mandawa jetty. Many Bollywood celebrities own bungalows here.
Kashid Beach: It is 36 km away from Alibag, on the Alibag-Murud highway, also this beach is possibly one of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in the region with almost 'white' sand.[citation needed]
Korlai Beach: A quiet serene beach with alternate white and black sands, along a serene stretch of the Arabian coastine, adjacent to a village of Korlai Creole Portuguese speaking Indians.

Other attractions.

Kolaba (or Kulaba) fort : Is situated in the sea at a distance of 1–2 km from the Alibag shores. During low tide one can walk to the fort.
Kanakeshwar temple: Is situated on a hill near Mapgaon village, about 12 km away from Alibag and falls on the way to Mandawa.
Kankneshwar Temple
Tower of St. Barbara.
Chaul: Is a historic town situated about 15 km away from Alibag. It is famous for its Portuguese ruins, an old church, a synagogue, Buddhist caves, the Hamam Khana and a temple.
Vikram Vinayak Temple or Birla Temple, Salav: Is situated about 20 km away from Alibag. On the way to Janjira, Take the right fork to reach the Vikram Ispat industry. Going a bit ahead will lead you to the temple.
Sagargarh
Kanhoji Angre Samadhi
Uma-Maheshwar temple
Balaji temple
Murud-Janjira: Janjira is the legendary fort situated not very far from Alibag.
Datta Mandir: situated at bhowale,2 km away from chaul.
Hingulja Mandir: Situated near datta mandir,historic temple built by pandwas.
Magnetic Observatory: Established in 1904 by the Indian Institute of Geomagnetism.
Korlai Fort & Korlai Creole Portuguese of Korlai village: Situated between Chaul and Kashid, a unique village of Indians born of Indo-Portuguese ancestors, speaking a unique creole of Portuguese and a fort lost in the sands of history.

Matherana Hill Station in Karjat

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 6 Jun 2010 01:46:00 -0700

Matherana : It is a hill station in Karjat Tahsil and is also the smallest hill station in India. It is located on the Western Ghats range at an elevation of around 800 m (2,625 feet) above sea level.

The closest hill settlement to Mumbai, Matheran was discovered in 1850 by the British during their occupation of India and subsequently developed into a popular summer retreat.

The most unique thing about it and what makes it so special, is that all vehicles are banned there -- even bicycles. It's a soothing place to relax away from any noise and pollution.There are lots of lookout points that provide spectacular views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Matheran has a reasonably dense forest cover.

Best Time To Visit:

Best season to visit this place is monsoon. Tourist can experience the scenic view of waterfalls.

Transport:

Kalyan to Neral by train, Neral to Matheran by vehicle/train/walk

History:

Matheran was discovered by Hugh Poyntz Malet, the then district collector of Thane district in May 1850. Lord Elphinstone, the then Governor of Bombay laid the foundations of the development as a future hill station. The British developed Matheran as a popular resort to beat the summer heat in the region.

Matheran is connected to the town of Neral which lies at the base of the hills. A tar road connects Neral to Dasturi Naka which is 9 km (5.8 miles) from Matheran. In order to maintain Matheran's uniqueness, no vehicles are allowed beyond this point. The other mode of transport is a 2 ft (610 mm) gauge narrow gauge railway, which links the town to Neral. Neral also has a broad gauge station which is on the busy Mumbai-Pune route. Neral is well connected by railway line with Karjat being the nearest Junction. The Matheran Hill Railway was built in 1907 by Sir Adamjee Peerbhoy and covers a distance of 20 km (12.4 miles), over large swathes of forest territory.

Main Points To Visit:

Alexander Pt.
Rambag Pt
Little Chowk Pt
Chowk Pt
One Tree Hill Pt
Belvedere Pt
Olympia Race Course
Lords Pt
Charlotte Lake

Cecil Pt (Actually a water fall mouth)
Echo Pt.

Porcupine Pt (Sun Set Pt)
Panorama Point (Sun Rise Pt)

Madhavji Garden & Point
Matheran Railway Station
Louisa Point
Mayor Pt

Amboli hill station-Location,Connectivity,Introduction,History,Main Attraction,Best Time To visit,Pictures

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 6 Jun 2010 01:16:00 -0700

Approaching Amboli is fairly easy, with excellent road connections and State Transport bus services.

Distance from

Mumbai - 550 kms

Pune - 390 kms

Kolhapur - 120kms

Ratnagiri - 215 kms

Belgaum - 64 kms.

The inception of the Konkan Railways has made the journey to Amboli even more exciting for children with lots of tunnels and tall bridges, creeks, rivers and verdant hills and valleys that the train passes before you alight at Sawantwadi (28 kms)

Introduction:

Amboli is a hill station in south Maharashtra, India. At an altitude of 690 meters it is the last hill station before the coastal highlands of Goa and a relatively unexplored one.

Located in the Sahyadri ranges in the Western Ghats, Amboli is a quaint hill station, surrounded by thick forests of the Anjani tree and plantations of cardamom; and crisscrossed by a number of tiny streams.

History:

Amboli village came into being as one of the staging posts along the road from Vengurla port to the city of Belgaum, which was extensively used by the British to supply their garrisons in south and central India. The hills of Amboli village provide one of the sources of the Krishna river (The "Ganges" of south India) and an ancient Shiva temple (called Hiranyakeshi) exists at the cave where the water emerges. The main attraction for tourists is the incredibly high rainfall (7 meters average per year!)and the numerous waterfalls and mist during the monsoons

Main attractions:

The main attractions are the many viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of the valley such as Sea-view Point, Purvicha Vas, and Mahadevgad Point - all of which unfold a view of the Konkan coast merging with the Arabian Sea. Tourists can visit the ruins of Madhavgadh fort in the vicinity. One can also visit the historic botanical gardens and picnic there. Mahadevgad and Narayangad are other hill stations in the area.

Mumbai Pune Expressway-India's first six-lane concrete,Distance,History & Facts,Tenders,Construction & Cost,Names of Tunnel & Length,Future Plans

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 6 Jun 2010 00:48:00 -0700

Mumbai Pune Expressway-India's first six-lane concrete,Distance,History & Facts,Tenders,Construction & Cost,Names of Tunnel & Length,Future Plans

The Mumbai Pune Expressway , officially the Yashwantrao Chavan Expressway is India's first six-lane concrete, high-speed, access controlled tolled expressway.The Mumbai-Pune Expressway is one of the prestigious projects to MSRDC by Public Works Department. This aims to provide a safe and fast access between Mumbai and Pune. This 6 lane expressway extends from Kon to Dehu, a distance of 92 km. and the first of its kind in India of its size with concrete pavement, It connects the financial capital of India, and the neighboring industrial hub city of Pune. It has introduced for India new levels of speed and safety in automobile transportation.

Vehicles with fewer than four wheels and agricultural tractors are not permitted, although tractor-trailers (semi-trailer rigs are permitted). The expressway handles about 30,000 PCUs and is designed to handle up to 1,000,000 PCUs.

History & Facts:

In 1990, the Government of Maharashtra appointed RITES and Scott Wilson Kirkpatrick of United Kingdom to carry out feasibility studies for the new expressway to be operated on toll basis. RITES submitted their report in 1994 with the estimated cost of project at Rs. 1146 crores (11.46 billion rupees). The Government of Maharashtra entrusted the work of the construction of Mumbai-Pune expressway to MSRDC in March 1997 on Build-Operate-Transfer basis with permission to collect toll for 30 years. The environmental clearance from the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India was received on October 13, 1997. The Forest Clearance was received on November 11, 1997.

The tender notice was published in leading newspapers all over India and also on the Internet. Due to wide publicity, 133 tenders were sold and on December 18, 1997, 55 tenders were received. After technical and financial evaluation, tenders were accepted and work orders were given on January 1, 1998 to four contractors. Thereafter tenders for widening of Khandala and Lonavala-Khandala bypass works were invited. The tenders were received on August 24, 1998 and orders were issued on September 4, 1998.

Construction & Project Cost:

The project was completed under the stewardship of the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC).

The expressway cost Rs. 16,30,00,00,000 (approx. US$ 362 million) to construct.

The first sections opened in 2000, and the entire route was completed, opened to traffic and made fully operational from April 2002.

Names of Tunnel & Length:

1) Bhatan: This tunnel opened in April 2000.The Mumbai-Pune (North) tube is 1,053 m and the Pune-Mumbai (South) tube is 1,088 m long

Bhatan Tunnel

2) Madap: This tunnel also opened in April 2000.The Mumbai-Pune (North) tube is 305.3 m and the Pune-Mumbai (South) tube is 359.3 m long.

3) Adoshi: This only has a Pune-Mumbai tube. The Mumbai-Pune carriageway skirts the eastern edge of the tunnel while the Pune-Mumbai carriageway traverses the 258 m long tunnel.

4) Khandala: This is a curved pair of tubes. The Mumbai-Pune (North) tube is 293.5 m

and the Pune-Mumbai (South) tube is 400 m long.

5) Kamshet-1:It has 2 tubes roughly 900 m each.

6) Kamshet-2:359 m

Future Expansion:

MSRDC has decided to extend the Mumbai Pune Expressway from the current endpoint of Kalamboli near Panvel and to extend it till Sion in Mumbai. The extended stretch will reduce commuting time between Mumbai and Pune by 30 minutes. Under the plan, the Sion Panvel Expressway corridor will be widened, with dedicated lanes for heavy and light vehicles. Service roads will be built for entry and exit at various points. It will also involve constructing a brand new bridge over the Thane creek parallelly to the current Vashi Mankhurd Bridge. MSRDC will undertake the expansion project. Work is expected to commence in March 2009 and complete by September 2011. The new 22-km link is expected to cost Rs 800 crore

Champakulam Moolam Boat Race-Venue,How to reach,Highlights.vallam kali (snake boat race) in Kerala on the river Pampa,Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 4 Jun 2010 21:07:00 -0700

Champakulam Moolam Boat Race-Venue,How to reach,Highlights.vallam kali (snake boat race) in Kerala on the river Pampa,Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple,Pictures

Venue: Champakulam, about 26 km from Alappuzha

How to Reach:Nearest railway station-Alappuzha (26 km), Nearest airport- Cochin (85 km).

Highlights: Spectacular water floats, decorated boats, Vanchipattu (song of the oarsmen)

Champakulam Moolam Boat Race This boat race is the oldest and most popular vallam kali (snake boat race) in Kerala state of south India. The race is held on the river Pampa on Moolam day (according to the Malayalam Era M.E) of the Malayalam month Midhunam, the day of the installation of the deity at the Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple.

Introduction:

Kerala is well-known for its water bodies that take the form of canals, backwaters and rivers. And there are regions in Kerala, where water dominates life of those living in its vicinity. The southern district of Alappuzha is one such region in Kerala that takes the credit of having a great amount of area under water. Some of the rivers rising in the highlands of the Western Ghats, flow down to join the vast stretches of backwaters and canals that crisscross the heart of Alappuzha and the nearby region of Kottayam.

Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple

In 1613 A.D., sixty-three years after the idol was given shelter at Mappilassery, the old house was being demolished and a new one being built. Raja Devanarayanan's successor heard the news and immediately sent word to Itty Thommen's son, Kunhi Thommen that the area where the idol was kept, which was considered a 'devasthanam ' or sacred place, was to be specially demarcated and used only as a place of worship. Also, in keeping with Hindu practices, no menstruating women were to enter the room. A special lamp, made of rare metals, was given to the family, to be kept in this holy place, and perpetually burning, as an eternal flame. Special privileges were also conferred on the family, including the grant of lands and coconut groves to supply the oil for the lamp.

Even today, these practices continue. The lamp is kept perpetually burning. Every year priests and other delegates from the temple call at the house on Moolam day, with gifts and prasadam for the karanavar or head of the house. This ceremony is known as the Moolakazcha.It is believed that on Moolam Day, Lord Krishna resides not at the Temple, but at Mappilassery House! Reverentially,on unshod feet,the Temple delegates enter the prayer room, where along with Christian icons like the cross, and statues of Jesus and Mary, the lamp, known as the Vazhakoombu Vilakku is given a place of prominence. The temple representatives then venerate the lamp, and are treated by the family to a sumptuous feast. It is only after all these ceremonies, that the famous Champakulam Snake Boat Race commences.

Shri Hanuman Mandir, Salangpur (Gujarat)-Location,How to reach,History,Temple timings,Video Darshan,Pictures,Aarti Video

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 3 Jun 2010 19:45:00 -0700

Shri Hanuman Mandir, Salangpur (Gujarat)-Location,How to reach,History,Temple timings,Video Darshan,Pictures,Aarti Video

Location & Accessibility:

Address: Sarangpur, District - Ahmedabad (gUJARAT)

Accesibility:160 Km from Ahmedabad on Bhavanagar Road by Road and NEAREST RLY STATION BOTAD on Ahmedabad-Bhavanagar Train

Year of Construction:Temple was constructed about 350 years back.

Festival:Hanuman Jayanti

Best Time:It is advisable to visit the temple during winter as summer months are extremely hot.

Opening Schedule:7 AM and 4 PM

Visit Timings:7 AM to 12 Noon & 4 PM to 8 PM

Hanuman is the perfect avatar of protection. The avatar namely hanuman is being inherited from Indian epic, the Ramayana. He is the rudra avatar of Lord Shiva and is well known as the most powerful and intellectual among all gods.

Hanuman is also referred as pavan putra as well as Vāyu-Putra because Pavan had played a significant role in getting hanuman to Anjana as her child.

Shri Hanuman Mandir, Salangpur is a Hindu temple located in Salangpur, Gujarat and comes under the Vadtal Gadi of the Swaminarayan Sampraday.It is dedicated to Hanuman in the form of Kastbhanjan (Crusher of sorrows). It is the only Swaminarayan temple to have Hanuman as a central deity

History:

This temple is among the more prominent ones in the Swaminarayan Sampraday. The image of Hanuman was installed by Gopalanand Swami. According to author Raymond Williams, it is reported that when Gopalanand Swami installed the image of Hanuman, he touched it with a rod and the image came alive and moved. This story has become a charter for the healing ritual performed at this temple.The image of Hanuman here is a stout figure with a handlebar moustache, crushing a female demon under his foot and baring his teeth, standing among sculpted foliage full of fruit bearing monkey attendants

Since hanuman is believed to be a god of power so people often devote their prayers by the enchanting tune of aarti. Aarti is a respect of love and a devotional way of offerings prayers to god. Aarti is being performed with the use of five small diyas, or wicks made of cotton wool are being served with a metal tray by putting ghee and oil in it. It is also provided with lovely flowers with an enchanting tune.

It is believed that the idol of hanuman has come real and starts moving when it is being placed at the Shri Hanuman Mandir, Sarangpur‎. This temple is famous as it free from evil powers due to the presence of the essence of hanuman

Video Darshan of Hanuman ji At Sarangpur

Hanuman Aarti Video:

Hanuman Aarti:

Aarti kejeye hanuman lalaa ki

Dusht dalan raghunath kala ki

Jake bal se ghirdhar kape

Rog dhosh jake nikat na jhape

Aarti kejeye hanuman ..........

Anjani putra maha baldhai

Santan ke prabhu sada sahai

Aarti kejeye hanuman .........

De bhira raghunath pathai

Lanka jare siya sudhi laye

Aarti kejeye hanuman .......

Lanka so kot samudar se khai

Jat pavansut bar na layi

Aarti kejeye hanuman .......

Lanka jare asur saghare

Siyaramji ke kaaj shavare

Aarti kejeye hanuman ......

. Laxman murchit pade sakare

Aani sanjeevan pran ubhare

Aarti kejeye hanuman .........

Pethi patal tori jam-kare

Aahiravan ki bhuja ukhare

Aarti kejeye hanuman .......

Baye bhuja asurdal mare

Dahiye bhuja santjan tare

Aarti kejeye hanuman ......

Sur nar muni aarti utare

Jai jai jai hanuman uchare

Aarti kejeye hanuman .......

Kanchan thal kapor loo chayi

Aarti karat anjani mai

Aarti kejeye hanuman .........

Jo hanuman ji ke aarti gavey

Basi baykunt param pad pavey

Aarti kejeye hanuman ..........

Nusa Lembongan Island

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 30 May 2010 19:55:00 -0700

Nusa Lembongan, a small island between Bali and Nusa Penida in Badung Strait, is the perfect holiday hideaway with few visitors and pristine un-spoilt beaches. A low, protected island about 11 km southeast of mainland Bali, measuring only four by three km and ringed with mangrove swamps, and palms and white sandy beaches. Inland the terrain is scrubby and very dry, with volcanic stonewalls and processional avenues crisscrossing the small cactus-covered hills. Overlooking Sanghiang Bay with its clear blue waters, the Nusa Lembongan Resort offers a panoramic view of eastern Bali and the majestic silhouette of Mount Agung. Known for its great surf, the excellent crystal-clear waters also make it a perfect place for snorkeling and diving. It's still a basic place, but interesting, and there are some lovely places to stay.

The island is small enough to explore on foot, offering pristine beaches and coves, majestic views of Mount Agung, unique Balinese architecture, and the friendliness of a simple country folk. With a lack of arable land and a severe shortage of tourist attractions, the island's economy is limited to its underwater wealth-seaweed. A secondary occupation is catering to visiting surfers. Between Nusa Lembongan and the adjacent of Nusa Ceningan Island, the population is only 60,000.

There are just two villages on Nusa Lembongan, the large, spread out administrative center of Lembongan Village, and Jungut Batu village. Surfers and backpackers hang out in the latter, about 150 per month, for an average stay of three to five days. The only other visitors are European, Japanese, and Australian day-trippers on excursion boats. Jungut Batu offers the island's best accommodations and water sport opportunities. There's motorcycle traffic between the two villages and it's easy to get a lift. Both villages are heavily involved in the cultivation of seaweed. Before government-supported commercial seafood production in 1980, the people of the island lived on maize, cassava, tuber, beans, and peanuts. Today most everyone is involved in one way or another with cultivation of "sea vegetables," and the air is permeated with its smell.

Visit the seaweed gardens at low tide; they look like gigantic underwater botanical gardens. Two kinds are grown, the small red pinusan and the large green kotoni. Almost the entire crop is exported to Hong Kong for use in the cosmetics and food processing industries. After harvesting, gatherers leave a floating offering of rice and flowers that gently drifts away on the outgoing tide.

Life on Nusa Lembongan is very relaxing, with cool breezes, little traffic, no big hotels, no pollution, no stress, no photocopy machines, and hardly any telephones. Best of all, there are almost no pedagang acung (pushy vendors) and few thieves. Jungut Batu's charming "tree house" bungalow-style accommodations with outdoors open-air 'mandi', rickety wooden furniture, sand floor restaurants and offices are reminiscent of Kuta Beach 20 years ago. Crops are meager, and the only fruit available is melon. All other food must be imported from the market in Denpasar or from the neighboring island of Nusa Penida.

Source: www.indonesia-tourism.com

Gajah Cave

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 30 May 2010 19:42:00 -0700

Goa Gajah, literally means 'Elephant Cave”. Although named by 'elephant' it doesn't mean there is any real elephant live or ever live here. The name Goa Gajah derived from 'Lawa Gajah', which is mentioned in the manuscripts that found in this site. This temple complex was built for the first time around 11 century based on epigraph found in this site.

A seven-meters deep cave with a shape of T-letter is the major attraction of this Bedulu village's local temple. The cave it self is carved in a solid stone hill of the river valley. The main figure of the carving at the cave entrance is 'boma', a barong face, accompanied with big clapping fingers on its side. Leaf, flower, and some horror figures can be noticed if we give more attention look to the rest of the carving. Some holes that are considered to be used as meditation or sleeping quarters can be found in the wall of the cave. Nowadays, those holes are used to place offerings whenever there is ceremonies taking place. On the left end side of the cave is Ganesha statue, believe it as 'the God of knowledge'. Meanwhile on the right end side can be found three 'linggas', that each of them dedicated to the three common God manifestations in Bali, Brahma, Wisnu, and Siwa. There are other three stone carvings in the centre wall, one of them figuring head and face.

Three other statues of Ganesha, demons and Men Brayut, a legendary lady with her beloved children, are placed on a high building located on the left side of cave entrance. It is considered that these statues are 1000 years old. In the middle of the complex, in front of the cave, there is bathing place that is not any longer used by the local people. The angle figures within the bathing complex are about similar to common figures found in India. On the south part of the complex, there are along flight of step leads down the lower part of the valley. After crossing a bridge above a small creek and follow another flight of steps up to eastern side of the valley, a headless sitting Buddha statue can be seen. This is the evident of a close relationship between the two religions.

Source: www.indonesia-tourism.com

List of 5 star Hotels in Goa-Location,Address & Accessibility

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 30 May 2010 10:14:00 -0700

List of 5 star Hotels in Goa-Location,Address & Accessibility

Goa its the beautiful place of india & attracts maximum percentage of tourism than the rest part of country. Hotels here are doing a great business over the year around.

Goa is India's smallest state by area and the fourth smallest by population. Located on the west coast of India in the region known as the Konkan, it is bounded by the state of Maharashtra to the north, and by Karnataka to the east and south, while the Arabian Sea forms its western coast. Goa is India's richest state with a GDP per capita two and a half times that of the country as a whole.

Taj Holiday Village

Address:

Sinquerim, Bardez

Goa-403519 India

Accessibility:

Dabolim Airport: 45 KM

Thivim Railway Station: 12 KM

Bus Stand: 15 KM

Taj Exotica

Address:

Calwaddo, Benaulim, Salcette

Goa-403716 India

Accessibility:

Dabolim Airport: 27 KM

Margao Railway Station: 8 KM

Bus Stand: 10 KM

Ramada Caravela Beach Resort

Address:

Varca Beach, Village - Varca, Salcette

Goa-403721 India

Accessibility:

Dabolim Airport: 30 KM

Margao Railway Station: 10 KM

Bus Stand: 10 KM

Park Hyatt Goa Resort & Spa

Address:

Arossim Beach, Cansaulim, South Goa

Goa-403712 India

Accessibility:

Dabolim Airport: 8 KM

Margao Railway Station: 14 KM

Bus Stand: 10 KM

Majorda Beach Resort

Address:

Majorda, Salcette

Goa-403713 India

Accessibility:

Dabolim Airport: 12 KM

Margao Railway Station: 10 KM

Bus Stand: 10 KM

The Leela Kempinski Goa

Address:

Mobor, Cavelossim

Goa-403731 India

Accessibility:

Dabolim Airport: 40 KM

Margao Railway Station: 7 KM

Bus Stand: 17 KM

Intercontinental The Lalit Goa Resort

Address:

Raj Baga, Canacona

Goa-403702 India

Accessibility:

Dabolim Airport: 66 KM

Margao Railway Station: 35 KM

Goa Marriott Resort

Address:

Miramar, Panaji

Goa-403001 India

Accessibility:

Dabolim Airport: 30 KM

Karmali Railway Station: 12 KM

Bus Stand: 5 KM

Cidade De Goa

Address:

Vainguinim Beach

Goa-403004 India

Accessibility:

Dabolim Airport: 28 KM

Karmali Railway Station: 14 KM

Bus Stand: 7 KM

Fort Aguada Beach Resort

Address:

Sinquerim, Bardez

Goa-403519 India

Accessibility:

Dabolim Airport: 45 KM

Thivim Railway Station: 30 KM

Bus Stand: 15 KM

5 Star Hotels, Mumbai-List of 5 star hotels,Location, Address & Accessibility-Taj,Hyatt,ITC,Trident,Leela,Oberoi,Marriott,Park,Renaissance,Four Season

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 30 May 2010 01:36:00 -0700

5 Star Hotels, Mumbai-List of 5 star hotels,Location, Address & Accessibility-Taj,Hyatt,ITC,Trident,Leela,Oberoi,Marriott,Park,Renaissance, Four Seasons etc

Mumbai being commercial capital of india has a good number of hotels offering world class hospitality.

It is the heart of the country. It is the hub of all economical activities of the country and is the center of industry, communication and transportation.

Mumbai hotels are completely unparalleled in every aspect be it accommodation, cost, services matching the expectation of traveler. Hotels in Mumbai are well equipped with all modern amenities providing best hotel accommodation services in the world. Hotels in Mumbai comprises of different rooms including deluxe classic hotels, deluxe luxury rooms, premium luxury rooms, ocean front suite, walnut suite and many such varieties. They offer comfort, quality and great value for money.

5 Star Hotels

Taj President Hotel

Address:

90 Cuffe Parade, Colaba

Mumbai-400005 India

Accessibility:

International Airport: 35 KM

Domestic Airport: 29 KM

Railway Station: 3 KM

Grand Hyatt Mumbai

Address:

Off Western Express Highway

Mumbai-400055 India

Accessibility:

International Airport: 9 KM

Domestic Airport: 3 KM

Railway Station: 1 KM

Hyatt Regency Mumbai

Address:

Sahar Airport Road

Mumbai-400099 India

Accessibility:

International Airport: 1 KM

Domestic Airport: 5 KM

ITC Maratha

Address:

Sahar

Mumbai-400012 India

Accessibility:

Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport: 2 KM

Domestic Airport: 5 KM

Bombay Central Railway Station: 28 KM

Trident Nariman Point

Address:

Nariman Point

Mumbai-400021 India

Accessibility:

International Airport: 27 KM

Domestic Airport: 23 KM

Railway Station: 2 KM

The Oberoi

Address:

Nariman Point

Mumbai-400021 India

Accessibility:

International Airport: 27 KM

Domestic Airport: 23 KM

Railway Station: 2 KM

JW Marriott Hotel

Address:

Juhu Tara Road, Juhu

Mumbai-400049 India

Accessibility:

International Airport: 10 KM

Domestic Airport: 5 KM

The Leela Kempinski Mumbai

Address:

Sahar

Mumbai-400059 India

Accessibility:

International Airport: 1.5 KM

Domestic Airport: 6 KM

Le Royal Meridien Mumbai

Address:

Sahar Airport Road

Mumbai-400099 India

Accessibility:

International Airport: 1 KM

Domestic Airport: 7 KM

Andheri Railway Station: 4 KM

Sun n Sand Mumbai

Address:

39, Juhu Beach

Mumbai-400049 India

Accessibility:

International Airport: 10 KM

Domestic Airport: 5 KM

The Retreat

Address:

Erangal Beach, Madh Marve Road

Madh Island

Mumbai-400061 India

Accessibility:

Sahar International Airport : 26 KM

Domestic Airport : 27 KM

Malad Railway Station : 13 KM

The Resort

Address:

11, Madh Marve Road

Aksa Beach, Malad (West)

Mumbai-400095 India

Accessibility:

International Airport : 23 KM

Domestic Airport : 23 KM

Railway Station : 10 KM

Intercontinental The Lalit Mumbai

Address:

Sahar Airport Road, Andheri (East)

Mumbai-400059 India

Accessibility:

Sahar Airport: 2 KM

Domestic Airport: 7 KM

Andheri Railway Station: 5 KM

Intercontinental Marine Drive

Address:

135, Marine Drive

Mumbai-400020 India

Accessibility:

International Airport: 27 KM

Domestic Airport: 17 KM

Railway Station: 1 KM

The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower

Address:

Apollo Bunder, Colaba

Mumbai-400001 India

Accessibility:

International Airport: 32 KM

Domestic Airport: 23 KM

Railway Station: 2.5 KM

Four Seasons Hotel (Worli)

Address:

114, Dr. E. Moses Road, Worli

Mumbai-110018 India

Accessibility:

Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport: 60 Minutes

Santa Cruz Airport: 45 KM

Renaissance Mumbai Hotel

Address:

2 & 3B, Near Chinmayanand Ashram

Powai

Mumbai-400087 India

Accessibility:

Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport: 5 KM

Mumbai Domestic Airport: 9 KM

The Park Navi Mumbai

Address:

No 1, Sector 10

CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai

Mumbai-400614 India

Accessibility:

Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport: 42 KM

CBD Belapur Station: 1 KM

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus: 41 KM

ITC Grand Central Mumbai

Address:

287, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Road, Parel

Mumbai-400012 India

Accessibility:

International Airport: 22 KM

Domestic Airport: 15 KM

Batur Lake

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 30 May 2010 00:26:00 -0700

Batur Lake is the old crater of Mount Batur, a still active volcano next to it. It is located on the northern part of Bali. The largest lake overshadowed by the active volcano is located in Bangli Regency, at the northeast of Bali. Batur Lake is the widest lake in this island. It lies down in the feet of Mount Batur and Mount Abang. The lake is classified as a "neutral-dilute" lake because there is no known underlying hydrothermal activity, and the abundant rainfall more than quenches any such activity. There is a hot spring right by the lake. We can enjoy the spectacular scenery of Batur Lake from Kintamani. Across the lake, only reachable by boat, lies Trunyan village, where the Bali Aga people live. The surrounding of the lake is a favorite place for picks self up.

At Batur Lake we can see the scenic view and feel cool atmosphere. Bangli's mountainous region center is around the spectacular volcanic crater (or caldera) of Batur. Mount Batur adjacent to the volcano is the large crescent-shaped Batur Lake, all surrounded by the high walls of the crater rim. The place is a great day trips, trekking or just to get away from the daily activity.

Mount Batur itself is actually just a small volcano, but sets in the heart of a huge crater 14km in diameter. Adjacent to the volcano is the large crescent-shaped Batur Lake, all surrounded by the high walls of the crater rim. As the road rises steadily from Bangli or Tampaksiring, nothing in the surrounding gray landscape of bushes and garden plots suggests the presence of a volcano. But over one more small ridge a dizzying view awaits the ayes, encompassing the crater and beyond. From Panelokan, the main road runs right round the rim towards Kintamani, the panorama shifting as we circle around the crater.

One very interesting excursion in Batur is the climb down the inside of the crater from Penelokan to Kedisan. We can then drive around the smaller Mount Batur, through Songan. From Toya Bungkah, boats cross the lake to a Bali Aga village called Trunyan. This place is notorious for its mortuary traditions. Instead of cremating the dead, as Balinese do throughout most of the island, the Trunyan communities leave the bodies to decompose naturally in a special cemetery.

Jog Fall India : highest waterfall-How to reach,Best time to visit,Power project,Tourist attraction,Nearby places to visit,Pictures

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 29 May 2010 10:59:00 -0700

Jog Fall located at southern state of Karnataka is India's highest waterfall. Its height is 830 feet and is located on Sharavati River.The tallest and no doubt the most impressive waterfall in India, the Jog Falls(also known as the Gerusoppa waterfalls) is located about 400 kms from Bangalore in Karnataka. It is created by the Sharavathi River which comes down in cascades from a height of 292 meters at Gerusoppa in four distinct falls, called the Raja, Rani, Rover and Rocket.

How to reach Jog Falls

Jog Falls in Karnataka is a major tourist attraction of South India and visited by tourists all throughout the year. So, this place is well linked via proper roadways and railways. The nearest town to Jog falls is Sagar which is well connected with bus and trains and the nearest railhead is Shimoga, 113 kms away. Regular buses leave for Jog Falls. If you are on road, you have to travel on the national highway for about 7 to 8 hours to reach Jog falls.

Best Time To Visit

For a Tour to Jog Falls, the best time to visit is between the months of August and December.

Significance-Power Project

The power station has been operational since 1948, and is of 120 MW capacity, one of the largest hydro-electric stations in India at that time and a small source of electric power for Karnataka now. The power station was previously named Krishna Rajendra hydro-electric project, after the King of Mysore at that time. The name was later changed to Mahatma Gandhi hydro-electric Project.

Tourist Attractions

Honnemaradu: Situated on the back waters of River Sharavathi, this island formed with the backwater of Linganmakki Dam is famous for water sports.
Tunga Anicut Dam: Situiated 15 km from Shimoga, this dam was built across the river Tungabadra. You can enjoy boat trips around the lake.
Lion Tiger Reserve: This Lion - Tiger Reserve / Safari is located nearly 12 km from Shimoga towards Jog Falls.

Nearby Places to visit:

Sagara: A small town in the district of Shimoga, located 30 km from Jog Falls, Sagara is home to several ancient temples.
Siddapura: a small town in Kodagu district, Siddapura lies in Western Ghats, providing captivating views of the Sahyadri mountain ranges.
Sirsi: A town in Uttara Kannada district, Sirsi is like a hill-station set amidst emerald green forests and several waterfalls.

Dudh Sagar waterfall,Goa-Location,Best time to visit,India's one of the tallest,Transport,Natural Beauty,Pictures

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 29 May 2010 09:48:00 -0700

Dudh Sagar waterfall,Goa-Location,Best time to visit,India's one of the tallest,Transport,Natural Beauty,Pictures

Best Season

The fall is generally calm durin summers. During monsoon, the falls become alive and attracts tourists mostly during monsoon season.

Location

The Dudh Sagar waterfall is situated in the Indian state of Goa around 60 km off Panaji, the capital of the state. It is connected to the other places in the state like Panaji and Margao with a road and railway network

The falls lie high up in the Mandovi River's watershed and so are not particularly spectacular during the dry season. During the monsoon season however, the falls are transformed into one of the most powerful falls in India. Dudhsagar Falls is listed as India's 5th tallest waterfall,and is 227th in the world at 310 m.

Situated on the border of Goa and Karnataka, the Dudhsagar Waterfalls takes a steep plunge 2000 feet down in the wooded mountains of the western Ghats

The water plummets hundreds of feet in large volumes during the monsoon season, forming one of the most spectacular natural phenomena in Goa. It is a major part of the Goa ecosystem.This is a four tiered waterfall with a total height of 310 meters (1017 feet) and an average width of 30 meters (100 feet)

Transport

The waterfall is accessible by train and rough road. It is 10 kilometers from Kulem Railway Station (Indian Railway station code QLM).

Natural beauty

Swimming is a good options at the bottom of the falls. But one has to make sure that the water is calm in desired area. The sure-footed adventurers could try and climb up to the head of the falls through bushes, boulders and water. It’s a tough climb which takes at least a couple of hours. The fall's surrounding area form a good picnic spot. While visiting Dudhsagar falls, one should ensure that at least entire day is spent near the falls

Diu Beach(Gujarat)-Location,How to reach,Introduction,History,Main attraction-Beaches,Church,Forts.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 28 May 2010 19:38:00 -0700

Diu Beach(Gujarat)-Location,How to reach,Introduction,History,Main attraction-Beaches,Church,Forts.

Diu is well known for its beautiful beaches. Diu is located at 125 kms from Junagadh.

How to Reach to Diu :

By Air :

The nearest airport of Keshod connecting to Mumbai via Porbandar and Rajkot.

By Rail :

Veraval is the nearest railway station to reach Diu. Diu is well connected to Rajkot , Veraval and Ahmedabad by rail.

By Road :

State transport buses and private luxury and semi luxury buses are available from all major cities of Gujarat.

Introduction:

Diu District is an island lying off the south coast of Gujarat's Kathiawar peninsula, separated from the mainland by a tidal creek. It has an area of 40 km².The town of Diu lies at the eastern end of the island, and is famous for its fortress and old Portuguese Cathedral. It is also a fishing town

Diu is famous for exotic liquors on golden sandy beaches, dense palm groves and historical monuments. It is the beautiful tiny island with a coastal length of 21 kms. Chakratirth beach at Diu has beautiful landscaped gardens, open air-auditorium and changing rooms. Other famous beaches at Diu are the Kevdi, Gomatimala, Goghla, and NaGoa beach

History:

In 1535 Bahadur Shah, the Sultan of Gujarat, concluded a defensive alliance with the Portuguese against the Mughal emperor Humayun, and allowed the Portuguese to construct the Diu Fort and maintain a garrison on the island. The alliance quickly unravelled, and attempts by the Sultans to oust the Portuguese from Diu between 1537 and 1546 failed. The Siege of Diu by the Ottoman Empire in 1538 was unsuccessful to repel the Portuguese. The fortress, completed by Dom João de Castro after the siege of 1545, still stands. The island was occupied by the Indian military on 19 December 1961.

Main Attraction:

Diu Fort: Among all the places, the Diu fort has a prominent position in the places of tourist interest. It is a huge and impressive structure. It was constructed between 1535 and 1541 by the Portuguese, the fort has gorgeous view of the sea and Panikotha. You feel the history and battle fought by gallant soldiers.

Chakrateerth beach: although no watersports and other activities are available, you can love the sandy beach. It has a beautiful sunset point and a memorial of Indian battleship INS Khukri which was destroyed by Pakistan in the 1971 war (It was the only Indian ship destroyed by Pakistan in the battle)
Nagoa beach: is a horseshoe shaped beach with various water sports facilities.
Ghoghla beach: is the largest and gentlest beach of Diu. You can do swimming, sunbathing, parasailing, surfing etc.
Gangeshwar Mahadev: Gangeshwar Mahadev is 3 kilometers from the Jethibai Bus Terminus of Diu. This beautiful and sacred place has 5 shiv-lingams. The Shiv-lingam gets an abhishek by the ocean when it is on high tide. The legend is that the Pandavas worshipped load Shiva here during their exile.
St.Paul's Church

St.Francis Church
St.Thomas Church

INS Khukri Memorial:It was inaugurated on 15th December, 1999 in memory of the heroic sailors and officer who chose not to stop fighting and leave ship until it completely sank. INS Khukri was a frigate of the Indian navy
Sea Shell museum: A unique and amazing museum for lovers of ocean life.
Fortim-do-mar (Pani kotha)

Sunset At Diu

Calangute ‘Queen of Beaches’:Location,Introduction,Major attraction,Best time to visit,Water sports, St Alex church,List of North & South Goa Beaches

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 27 May 2010 11:11:00 -0700

Location:

‘Queen of Beaches’ of Goa.

By Air : The nearest airport is at Dabolim, which is 29 km away from Panaji.

By Road : Calangute beach is a just 30 min bus ride up the coast from Panaji, the capital of Goa. There are frequent buses to Panaji and Mapusa from Calangute. Mapusa is about 8 km away from Calangute.

By Rail : The nearest railway station is at Karmali, which is 11 km away from Panaji. Panaji is just half an hour's drive away from Calangute. Private transportation facilities - deluxe, semi-deluxe and ordinary - are also available at the railway station here.

Best Time to visit:

You may plan your trip to Calangute Beach any time of the year but the months from June to October may be avoided owing to the heavy rainfall.

Introduction:

Beaches around Goa are suitable for a range of activities, including sunbathing, swimming and bathing, water sports and even partying, with a number featuring open-air parties and raves at night-time. Many of Goa's beaches and resorts are at their most popular between November and March, with a number offering bamboo, palm-thatched beach hut accommodation, with sandy floors and superb coastal views

On the shores of the Arabian Sea, under the shade of palm trees, bathes the Queen of Beaches-Calangute. Calangute seems to be a distortion of the local vernacular word -'Koli-gutti', which means land of fishermen. Some people connect it with Kalyangutti (village of art) or Konvallo-ghott (strong pit of the coconut tree) because the village is full of coconut trees

Calangute became a traveler's cliche in the '60s and early'70s. It was the hippies who discovered the pristine surroundings and blissful serenity and golden sands. The hippies also spread the word around and brought hordes of European tourists

Why Goa Calangute Beach is so special?

Goa Calangute beach is a haven for the hippies. It was the hippies who discovered this beach in the late 60s. The exquisite beauty of the Calangute beach in India's Goa soon spread around, bringing hordes of European tourists. And this trend has still been continuing…tourists come down to this small Indian state of Goa searching for this lovely beach. Once you reach Calangute beach in Goa, then you can spend your vacation soaked in the serenity of the sea, sun and sand. Goa Calangute beach is often crowded with people, children making sand castles, colorful crowds surging towards the sea, hippies busy remembering the good old times and the young and old alike lazing on the golden sands.

Major Attractions:

While at Calangute you must check out the complex that treasures exhibits arts and crafts of local artistes.
The complex also hosts the concerts for the benefit of the enthusiasts of Indian classical music and dance.
Calangute Beach Goa India - At the Calangute beach you must check out the Saturday bazaar for some good bargains.
Calangute Beach in India - The market offers a wide range of items from daily food items to souvenirs.
Then there is the Tibetan market that offers gems and silverwork, wooden statues of the Buddha's besides Hindu deities.

Water Sports:

The beach at Calangute is also visited by the adventure lovers, who throng this place for various water sports activities. Calangute beach in Goa offers para-sailing, water skiing and wind surfing which starts in the afternoon when the wind is blowing in the right direction and it continues till sunset

Church of St Alex:

The Church of St Alex is a must visit pace in Goa. With its two majestic towers and a dome with a magnificent charm gracing the facade, the Church of St. Alex boasts of an aesthetic beauty that is displayed on its architectural style and elaborately decorated altars. The church celebrated the fourth centenary of its parish church in 1996. People come to the place from far of places

Other North Goa Beaches

Arambol

Morjim

Chapora

Vagator

Anjuna

Baga

Calangute

Candolim

Sinquerim

Bambolim

Miramar

Dona Paula

Aguada

South Goa Beaches:

Agonda

Bogmalo

Majorda

Colva

Benaulim

Varca

Cavelossim

Mobor

Canaguinim

Palolem

The Palace/Keraton Yogyakarta

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 25 May 2010 20:16:00 -0700

The palace court with its grand and elegant Javanese architecture lies in the center of the city. Prince Mangkubumi founded the palace in 1755. The Prince then was called Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono I and he chose the right location of the compound between Winongo River and Code River. The palace stretches out from north to south. The front yard is called alun-alun Utara (the North Square), and the back yard is called Alun-alun Selatan (the South Square). The layout of the buildings shows that the Palace, the commemorative column and Mount Merapi lie in one line. The palace meeting hall is called Pagelaran, where formal meetings of palace officials are held, while the "Manguntur Tingkil" hall is the place where the Sultan is seated.

The visitors can enjoy the atmosphere of the kraton in former times by visiting the life-size diorama of wedding ceremonies on the palace meeting hall, performed by puppets, which are intentionally arranged to create such an atmosphere. Sets of Javanese musical instruments, antiques and heirlooms have made the palace of Yogyakarta worth to visit. Many sets of gamelan music instruments, antiques, and heirlooms make the palace of Yogyakarta the most interesting tourist attractions in Yogyakarta. The palace of Ngayogyokarto Hadiningrat is now the dwelling place of Sultan Hamengku Buwono X and the family.

West of the palace, there is Water Castle, built in 1758 by the prince, Sultan Hamengkubuwono I. The Water Castle is located in the older part of the city within walking distance from the Bird Market. Part of the pleasure garden and castle is at present no more than an intriguing collection of ruins, pools, arches and underground passages enclosed by massive walls, however, the central courtyard with the nymph-baths has been restored. A number of batik workshops line the avenue leading to the pleasure garden's entrance.

Source: www.indonesia-tourism.com

Haji Ali Dargah, Worli Mumbai-Location,Introduction,History,Structure,What to see,Pictures,Video

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 25 May 2010 19:40:00 -0700

Haji Ali Dargah, Worli Mumbai-Location,Introduction,History,Structure,What to see,Pictures,Video

Located: On an island off the coast in Worli, Mumbai

Built in: 1431

Attraction: Beautiful architecture, picturesque backdrop

How to Reach: One can easily reach Haji Ali by boarding buses or trains, or by hiring autos or taxis from the city.

Introduction:

The Haji Ali Dargah is a mosque and dargah (tomb) located on an islet off the coast of Worli in Southern part of Mumbai. Lying as it does in the heart of the city, the dargah is one of the most recognizable landmarks of Mumbai.

An exquisite example of Indian Islamic architecture, associated with legends about doomed lovers, the dargah contains the tomb of Sayed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari.

Honoring the Muslim saint Haji Ali this mosque was built in the middle of the sea with only a narrow path leading to it giving it an ethereal look. As per the Muslim traditions separate praying rooms for ladies and gents are provided here to pay their respects. It is set 500 yards into the sea and can be reached only in low tide. The Haji Ali mausoleum has an offshore location, opposite the Mahalakshmi racecourse. During high tide, the connecting causeway is submerged in water giving the impression that the mosque and tomb are floating out at sea in splendid isolation. This is The Haji Ali Dargah, the floating tomb of a wealthy Mohammedan merchant who renounced his worldly ways before embarking on a pilgrimage to Mecca

History:

The Haji Ali Dargah was built by a wealthy Muslim merchant and saint named Haji Ali who renounced all his wordly possessions before making a pilgrimage to Mecca. The dargah was built in 1431.

Legend has it that Haji Ali died on his way to Mecca and his body, in its casket, floated back to Mumbai; however, some believe that Haji Ali drowned where the dargah stands today.

Structure:

The whitewashed structure occupies an area of 4,500 square metres, and an 85 foot (26 m) tower is the architectural highlight of the edifice. Behind the sculpted entrance, a marble courtyard contains the central shrine. The tomb within the mosque is covered by a brocaded red and green chaddar (tomb cover sheet). It is supported by an exquisite silver frame, supported by marble pillars. The main hall has marble pillars embellished with artful mirror work: blue, green, yellow chips of glass arranged in kaleidoscopic patterns interspersed with Arabic patterns which spell the ninety-nine names of Allah.

Today, most of the structure is corroded and the Dargah Trust is awaiting permission from the Central Government to raze the structure and rebuild it with Makrana marble, the same marble used to build the Taj Mahal. It was last repaired in the 1960s, but civil engineers say the structure is beyond further repair.

What to See:

The Haji Ali Dargah sits 500 yards from the coast in the water of Worli Bay, near the neighbourhood of Worli. It is connected with the Hindu Mahalaxmi Temple via a small causeway, usually only accessible during low tide.

The whitewashed structure occupies an area of 4,500 metres, and 40,000 pilgrims visit the shrine on Thursdays and Fridays. An 85 foot (26 m) tower is the architectural highlight of the edifice.

Inside, the tomb is covered by a brocaded red and green chaddar (bedsheet). It is supported by an exquisite silver frome. The main hall has marble pillars embellished with coloured mirror work in blue, green, yellow chips and inscribed with the ninety-nine names of Allah.

As many as 40,000 pilgrims visit the shrine on Thursdays and Fridays. People from all faiths visit & pray at the dargah.

Video From Movie Fizza

Prambanan Temple

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 25 May 2010 19:31:00 -0700

This is the most famous and also the most magnificent of Central Java's temples or more precisely complex of temples. Situated about 15 kilometers from Yogyakarta, the top of the main shrine is visible from a great distance and rises high above the scattered ruins of the former temples. Prambanan is the masterpiece of Hindu culture of the tenth century. The slim building soaring up to 47 meters makes its beautiful architecture incomparable. Seventeen kilometers east of Yogyakarta, King Balitung Maha Sambu built the Prambanan temple in the middle of the ninth century. Its parapets are adorned with bas-reliefs depicting the famous Ramayana story. This magnificent Shivaite temple derives it name from the village where it is located.

Prambanan Temple is locally known as the Roro Jonggrang Temple, or the Temple of the "Slender Virgin", it is the biggest and most beautiful Hindu temple in Indonesia. The temple complex of Prambanan lies among green fields and villages. It has eight shrines, of which the three main ones are dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. The main temple of Shiva rises to a height of 130 feet and houses the magnificent statue of Shiva's consort, Durga. There are 224 temples in the complex; three of them, the main temples are Brahma Temple in the north, Vishnu Temple in the south, and the biggest among the three which lies between Brahma and Vishnu temples is Shiva Temple (47 meters high).

Two theatres have provided the temple. Enjoy sunrise behind the glory of Prambanan Temple. Visitors should be at the location - in the area of The Open Air Theater and archaeological park of the temple - before sunrise at about 5:00 o'clock in the morning. The First open-air theatre was built on the southern side of the temple in 1960 and the second was built on the western side of the temple in 1988. During full moon evenings in the month from May to October, the Ramayana ballet is performed right here. Perhaps one of the most majestic temples in the South-East Asia, Prambanan attracts many admirers each year from abroad.

Source: www.indonesia-tourism.com

Hanuman Chalisa:Sindoor Hanuman,Hanuman Chalisa with meaning ,Pictures,List of some of famous temples,Videos song by Gulshan Kumar,Alka Yagnik,Udit

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 25 May 2010 07:36:00 -0700

Hanuman Chalisa:Sindoor Hanuman,Hanuman Chalisa with meaning ,Pictures,List of some of famous temples, Videos and song by Gulshan Kumar,Alka Yagnik,Udit Narayan

Hanuman known also as ‘Anjaneya’ (son of Anjana) or Maruti (or Maruti nandan), is one of the most popular concepts of devotees of God (bhakti) (devotion to God) in Hinduism and one of the most important personalities in the Indian epic, the Ramayana.

Sindoor Hanuman & Reason Behind Sindur on shri hanuman body

The devotees will visit temples and apply tilak of sindhūr to their foreheads from the Hanumans body as this is considered to be good luck. According to the legend Sita was applying sindhūr to her head, Hanuman Ji questioned why and replied that this would ensure a long life for her husband. Hanuman then smeared his entire body with sindhūr, in an effort to ensure Rama’s immortality.

Hanuman Chalisa:

Shree Guru Charan Saroj Raj, Nij Man Mukar Sudhari,

Barnau Raghuvar Bimal Jasu, Jo dayaku Phal Chari

With the dust of Guru’s Lotus feet, I clean the mirror of my mind and then

narrate the sacred glory of Sri Ram Chandra, The Supereme among the Raghu

dynasty. The giver of the four attainments of life.

Budhi heen Tanu Janike, Sumirow, Pavan Kumar,

Bal Buddhi Vidya Dehu Mohi, Harahu Kalesh Bikaar

Knowing myself to be ignorent, I urge you, O Hanuman, The son of Pavan! O

Lord! kindly Bestow on me strength, wisdom and knowledge, removing all my

miseries and blemishes.

Jai Hanuman Gyan Guna Sagar

Jai Kipis Tihun Lok Ujgaar

Victory of Thee, O Hanuman, Ocean of wisdom and virtue, victory to the Lord of

monkeys who is well known in all the three worlds

Ramdoot Atulit Bal Dhamaa,

Anjani Putra Pavansut naamaa.

You, the Divine messager of Ram and repository of immeasurable strength, are also

known as Anjaniputra and known as the son of the wind – Pavanputra.

Mahebeer Bikram Bajrangi,

Kumati Nivaar Sumati Ke Sangi.

Oh Hanumanji! You are valiant and brave, with a body like lightening. You are the

dispeller of darkness of evil thoughts and companion of good sense and wisdom.

Kanchan Baran Biraaj Subesaa,

Kanan kundal kunchit kesa.

Shri Hanumanji’s physique is golden coloured. His dress is pretty, wearing

‘Kundals’ ear-rings and his hairs are long and curly.

Hath Bajra Aur Dhvaja Birjai,

Kandhe Moonj Janeu saage.

Shri Hanumanji is holding in one hand a lighting bolt and in the other a banner

with sacred thread across his shoulder.

Shankar Suvna Kesari Nandan,

Tej Pratap Maha Jag Vandan.

Oh Hanumanji! You are the emanation of ‘SHIVA‘ and you delight Shri Keshri.

Being ever effulgent, you and hold vast sway over the universe. The entire

world proptiates. You are adorable of all.

Vidyavaan Guni Ati Chatur,

Ram Kaj Karibe Ko Atur

Oh! Shri Hanumanji! You are the repository learning, virtuous, very wise and

highly keen to do the work of Shri Ram,

Prabhu Charittra Sunibe Ko Rasiya,

Ram Lakhan Sita man basyia.

You are intensely greedy for listening to the narration of Lord Ram’s lifestory and

revel on its enjoyment. You ever dwell in the hearts of Shri Ram-Sita and Shri

Lakshman.

Sukshma roop Dhari Siyahi Dikhwana,

Bikat roop Dhari Lank Jarawa

You appeared before Sita in a diminutive form and spoke to her, while you

assumed an awesome form and struck terror by setting Lanka on fire.

Bhim roop Dhari Asur Sanhare,

Ramchandra Ke kaaj Savare.

He, with his terrible form, killed demons in Lanka and performed all acts of Shri Ram.

Laye Sajivan Lakhan Jiyaye,

Shri Raghubir harashi ur laye.

When Hanumanji made Lakshman alive after bringing ‘Sanjivni herb’ Shri Ram

took him in his deep embrace, his heart full of joy.

Raghupati Kinhi Bahut Badaai,

Tum Mama Priya Bharat Sam Bahi.

Shri Ram lustily extolled Hanumanji’s excellence and remarked, “you are as dear

to me as my own brother Bharat”

Sahastra Badan Tumharo Jas Gaave,

Asa kahi Shripati Kanth Laagave.

Shri Ram embraced Hanumanji saying:

“Let the thousand – tongued sheshnaag sing your glories”

Sankadik Brahmadi Muneesa,

Narad Sarad Sahit Aheesa

Sanak and the sages, saints. Lord Brahma, the great hermits Narad and

Goddess Saraswati along with Sheshnag the cosmic serpent, fail to sing the

glories of Hanumanji exactly

Jam Kuber Digpal Jahan Te,

Kabi Kabid Kahin Sake Kahan Te

What to talk of denizens of the earth like poets and scholars ones etc even Gods

like Yamraj, Kuber, and Digpal fail to narrate Hanman’s greatness in toto.

Tum Upkar Sugrivahi Keenha,

Ram Miali Rajpad Deenha

Hanumanji! You rendered a great service for Sugriva, It were you who united

him with SHRI RAM and installed him on the Royal Throne.

Tumharo Mantro Bibhishan Maana,

Lankeshwar Bhaye Sab Jag Jaana.

By heeding your advice. Vibhushan became Lord of Lanka, which is known all

over the universe.

Juug Sahastra Jojan Par Bhaanu,

Leelyo Taahi Madhur Phal Jaanu

Hanumanji gulped, the SUN at distance of sixteen thousand miles considering

it to be a sweet fruit.

Prabhu Mudrika Meli Mukha Maaheen,

Jaladhi Langhi Gaye Acharaj Naheen.

Carrying the Lord’s ring in his mouth, he went across the ocean. There is no

wonder in that.

Durgam Kaaj Jagat Ke Jeete,

Sugam Anugrah Tumhre Te Te.

Oh Hanumanji! all the difficult tasks in the world are rendered easiest by your

grace.

Ram Duware Tum Rakhavare,

Hot Na Aagya Bin Paisare.

Oh Hanumanji! You are the sentinel at the door of Ram’s mercy mansion or His

divine abode. No one may enter without your permission.

Sab Sukh Lahen Tumhari Sarna,

Tum Rakshak Kaahu Ko Darnaa.

By your grace one can enjoy all happiness and one need not have any fear under

your protection.

Aapan Tej Samharo Aapei,

Tanau Lok Hank Te Kanpei

When you roar all the three worlds tremble and only you can control your might.

Bhoot Pisaach Nikat Nahi Avei,

Mahabir Jab Naam Sunavei.

Great Brave on. Hanumanji’s name keeps all the Ghosts, Demons & evils spirits

away from his devotees.

Nasei Rog Hare Sab Peera,

Japat Niranter Hanumant Beera

On reciting Hanumanji’s holy name regularly all the maladies perish the entire

pain disappears.

Sankat Te Hanuman Chhudavei,

Man Kram Bachan Dhyan Jo Lavei.

Those who rembember Hanumanji in thought, word and deed are well guarded

against their odds in life.

Sub Par Ram Tapasvee Raaja,

Tinke Kaaj Sakal Tum Saaja

Oh Hanumanji! You are the caretaker of even Lord Rama, who has been hailed as

the Supreme Lord and the Monarch of all those devoted in penances.

Aur Manorath Jo Koi Lave,

Soi Amit Jivan Phal Pave.

Oh Hanumanji! You fulfill the desires of those who come to you and bestow

the eternal nectar the highest fruit of life.

Charo Juung Partap Tumhara,

Hai Parsiddha Jagat Ujiyara.

Oh Hanumanji! You magnificent glory is acclaimed far and wide all through the

four ages and your fame is radianlty noted all over the cosmos.

Sadho Sant Ke Tum Rakhvare,

Asur Nikandan Ram Dulare.

Oh Hanumanji! You are the saviour and the guardian angel of saints and sages

and destroy all the Demons, you are the seraphic darling of Shri Ram.

Ashta Siddhi Nau Nidhi Ke Data,

Asa Bar Din Janki Mata.

Hanumanji has been blessed with mother Janki to grant to any one any YOGIC

power of eight Sidhis and Nava Nidhis as per choice.

Ram Rasayan Tumhare Pasa,

Sadaa Raho Raghupati Ke Dasa.

Oh Hanumanji! You hold the essence of devotion to RAM, always remaining His

Servant.

Tumhare Bhajan Ramko Pavei.

Janam Janam Ke Dukh Bisravei.

Oh Hanumanji! through devotion to you, one comes to RAM and becames free

from suffering of several lives.

Anta Kaal Raghubar Pur Jai,

Jahan Janma Hari Bhakta Kahai.

After death he enters the eternal abode of Sri Ram and remains a devotee of

him, whenever, taking new birth on earth.

Aur Devata Chitt Na Dharai,

Hanumant Sei Sarva Sukh Karai

You need not hold any other demigod in mind. Hanumanji alone will give all

happiness.

Sankat Kate Mitey Sab Peera,

Jo Sumirei Hanumant Balbeera

Oh Powerful Hanumanji! You end the sufferings and remove all the pain from

those who remember you.

Jai Jai Jai Hanuman Gosai

Kripa Karahu Gurudev Ki Naiee

Hail-Hail-Hail- Lord Hanumanji! I beseech you Honour to bless me in the

capacity of my supreme ‘GURU’ (teacher).

Jo Sat Baar Paath Kar Koi,

Chhutahi Bandi Maha Sukh Hoi.

One who recites this Hanuman Chalisa one hundred times daily for one hundred

days becames free from the bondage of life and death and ejoys the highest

bliss at last.

Jo Yah Padhe Hanuman Chalisa,

Hoy Siddhi Sakhi Gaurisa

As Lord Shankar witnesses, all those who recite Hanuman Chalisa regularly are

sure to be benedicted

Tulsidas Sada Hari Chera,

Keeje Nath Hriday Mah Dera.

Tulsidas always the servant of Lord prays. “Oh my Lord! You enshrine within my

heart.!

Chopai:

Pavan Tanay Sankat Haran , Mangal Murti Roop.

Ram Lakhan Sita Sahit, Hriday Basahu Sur Bhoop.

O Shri Hanuman, The Son of Pavan, Saviour The Embodiment of

blessings, reside in my heart together with Shri Ram, Laxman and Sita

Some Famous Hanuman Temples:

Hanuman is regarded as the epitome of sacrifice, devotion, bravery and loyalty. A character of highest morals, Hanuman is worshipped throughout the country with great zeal.

Sri Bhaktha Anjaneya Temple, Sri Veeramangalam Anjaneyar Temple, Sri Yoga Anjaneyaswamy Temple, Sri Anjaneya Temple, Sankatmochan Temple are some the Hanuman Temples in India.

Jhakhu Temple - Shimla

Himachal Pradesh

Hanuman Mandir - New Delhi

Delhi

Mehandipur Balaji Temple - Dausa

Rajasthan

Hanuman Tok - Gangtok

Sikkim

Kalgam (Near Sarigam, Bhilad, Valsad District, Gujarat)

Powai's Oldest Hanuman Temple Since 1925,Mumbai

Maharastra

Sri Viswaroopa Panchamukha Anjaneya Swami Ashram - Chennai

Tamil Nadu

Sri Viswaroopa Adhivyadhihara Bhaktha Anjaneyaswami Temple - Chennai

Tamil Nadu

Sarangpur Hanumanji Temple - Ahmedabad

Gujarat

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Varanasi

The Bala Hanuman Temple, Jamnagar

(Gujarat)

Shri Hamuman Chalisa Video:

HANUMAN CHALISA BY GULSHAN KUMAR

HANUMAN CHALISA BY ALKA YAGNIK

HANUMAN CHALISA BY UDIT NARAYAN

Kamakhya Temple a majar shakti peeth Assam-Location,How to reach,History,Temple timing,Festivals,Temple Structure,Places near by.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 24 May 2010 19:09:00 -0700

Kamakhya Temple a majar shakti peeth Assam-Location,How to reach,History,Temple timing,Festivals,Temple Structure,Places near by.

Legend has it that following the destruction of Daksha's sacrifice and the Rudra Tandava of Shiva parts of Sati's body fell at several places throughout India, and these places are revered as Shakti peethas. The reproductive organ of Sati, (the Yoni) is said to have fallen here.

Location:

State : Assam in India.

Significance : The pilgrimage centre (One of the Peethasthanas).

Location : Kamakhya is located on a hill - Neelachala Parvat or Kamagiri near the city of Guwahati in Assam

The Kamakhya Temple is a shakti temple situated on the Nilachal Hill in western part of Guwahati city in Assam, India. It is the main temple in a complex of individual temples dedicated to different forms of the mother goddess as the Dasa Mahavidya, including Bhuvaneshvari, Bagalamukhi, Chinnamasta, Tripura Sundari and Tara.

How To Reach:

BY ROAD - Kamakhya is connected to the city center by a good motorable road. Guwahati is connected to other parts of the country, including Calcutta and Delhi, by road, airways and railways.

BY AIR - The nearest airport is Gopinath Bordoloi Airport at Borzhar, 14 km from the city center. Regular flights are available from Calcutta while five days a week flight service is available from Delhi.

Where To Stay:

Guwahati being the major city of Assam is well equipped hotels of different categories and other suitable accommodations.

History:

The current temple structure was constructed in 1565 by Chilarai of the Koch dynasty in the style of medieval temples

This temple was destroyed in early 16th century, and then rebuilt in the 17th century by King Nara Narayana, of Cooch Bihar. Images of the builder and related inscriptions are seen in the temple.

Temple Timings:

On an ordinary day, the temple remains open from 8 am till sunset, with a couple of hours break after 1.30 pm.

Festivals:

Festivals: Durga Puja is celebrated annually during Navaratri in the month of September- October. It is a three day festival attracting several visitors. A unique festival observed here is the Ambuvaci (Ameti) fertility festival wherein it is believed that the Goddess (mother Earth) undergoes her menstrual period

During this period the temple is closed for three days and opened with great festivity on the fourth day. It is believed to be inauspicious to till the ground or to plant seeds, during this three day period.

The Temple Structure:

The Kamakhya Temple has a beehive like shikhara. Some of the sculptured panels seen here are of interest. There are images of Ganesha, Chamundeswari, dancing features etc. The temple is a natural cave with a spring. Down a flight of steps to the bowel of earth, is located a dark, mysterious chamber. Here, draped with a silk sari and covered with flowers, is kept the "matra yoni".

There is no image of Shakti here. Within a corner of a cave in the temple, there is a sculptured image of the Yoni of the Goddess, which is the object of reverence. A natural spring keeps the stone moist.

Places around KAMAKHYA:

From Kamakhya, one can go to Kachapukhuri. This is a natural pond full of turtles. However, what puzzles the zoologist and common man alike is the habitation of these amphibians at such a high altitude.

The Bhutanese Tara Temple and the shrine of the snake Goddess, Manasa, are two other temples situated in the vicinity of Kamakhya.

The Bhubaneswari Temple is situated at the highest point of the hill. It offers a spectacular view of the city and the Brahmaputra River.

Bogor

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 23 May 2010 00:06:00 -0700

From Bandung about 4,5 hours drive is Bogor, also called the city of rain. Previously known as "Buitenzorg" (Sans soucis or Without worries), during the Dutch colonial era, Bogor actually lies closer to Jakarta (50 km) than it does to Bandung (120 km). Appropriately named by the Dutch as a town "without worries", they chose Bogor to be the site for constructing the first palace of the Dutch Governor General way back in 1745. Later restored in 1832, the palace still stands solid and elegant today with its stretched out gardens where deer roam freely on the green grass under majestically tall old trees.

The inhabitants of Bogor work in agriculture, forestry, industry, as civil are Christians, Catholics, Hindus and Buddhists. From a historical point of view, the Bogor Regency still has a close relationship with the history of the Pakuan Padjajaran Kingdom, which was built between the 13th - 15th centuries. This is supported by some historical objects in the form of inscriptions as old manuscript written by some historians, which were found in the area. Bogor, is famous with its botanical garden. This botanical garden and in the garden is the palace "Buitenzorg" On a not so busy day on the road a visit to Bogor and Taman Safari can be done on the same day. The world-famous Bogor Botanical Garden borders the Palace Grounds, covering an area of 87 hectares with thousands of species of plant life from all over the world. There are over 15,000 species of trees and plants, 400 varieties of palms alone. The orchid houses contain over 3000 orchid varieties. We don't have to be a horticulturalist to enjoy the gardens, it is a masterpiece of design and a wonderful place to just stroll and enjoy the company of family and friends.

See the original "Havea Brazilliensis" rubber tree, formerly imported from Brazil, and world's largest flower, the Rafflesia, a foul smelling and stem less as well as leafless plant. When visiting this Garden, arrange for a permit to visit the neighboring Presidential Palace, which belonged to the Dutch Governor General before Indonesia's independence. Doing this may be a daylong visit by leaving Jakarta in the morning and spend the night in Puncak mountainous region on the way to Bandung the next day. Here again, the whole car trip will be memorable, as scenic tropical beauty all around is really astonishing. We will also pass by another smaller Presidential Palace at Cipanas, the setting of which is in a colorful and flowery vast garden around this wooden but stylish palace.

Source: www.indonesia-tourism.com