TRIPS AND TRAVELS

MUSSORIE

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 6 Jul 2014 07:45:00 -0700

Mussorie is an Hill Station in Northern India. This is one of the beautiful Hill Stations in India near to Himalayas in the state of Uttar Khand in India. In fact Mussorie is a land of sublime tranquility. Feel the serenity of pristine valleys and listen to the wind whispering through the Deodar and pine trees. This hill station is also known as Queen of Himalayas. It is situtated at a height of 1880 meters or 6170 feet with green valleys and blue mountains with a touch of Himalayan range in Shivalik Mountains.

The name Mussoorie is often attibuted to a derivation of Mansoori

a shrub which is indigenous to the area. The town is in fact often referred to as 'Mansoori' by most Indians.

Tourism is the most important economy for Mussorie. Many locals earnings depend upon tourits.It has a nature walk known as "Camel's Back Road". This road takes its name from a rocky outcrop in the shape of a camel's hump. Along the road, a cemetery is located about mid-way on the loop. There is also "Gun Hill" where a cannon was used to sound out midday for many years. Gun Hill is accessible by the cable car on the Mall road. The oldest Christian church in the Himalayas, St Mary's, is situated above Mall Road, and is currently undergoing restoration. Kempty Falls is a nice picnic spot. Company Garden is popular tourist destination. During season, the Company Garden has a vast collection of flowers and plants. Happy Valley has a small Tibetan temple. This was the first Tibetan temple built in India. The temple was constructed in 1960 by the Tibetan refugees. Lal Tibba is another tourist spot of Mussoorie. Picturesque DHANOULTI hill station is about 32 kilometres from Mussoorie. Mussoorie also had India's largest roller skating rink.

Nahata Estate
Previously known as "Childer's Lodge" is a huge property of more than 300 acres. It is the highest peak of Mussoorie near Lal Tibba, it is situated at 5 km from the Tourist Office and one can go on horse back or on foot. The view of snow-clad mountains is exhilarating.

GunHill
Second highest point of Mussoorie, at an altitude of 2024m.

KEMPTY FALLS

The Kempty Falls are situated on the hilly tracks of Uttarakhand, India, 15 km from Mussoorie on the Chakrata Road. This place is located nearly 1364 meters above sea level at 78°-02’East longitude and 30° -29’North latitude.

Lake Mist
About 5 km before Kempty Falls on the Mussoorie-Kempty road is a good picnic spot with accommodation and restaurant facilities; boating is also available. With the Kempty river flowing through it, Lake Mist has many small waterfalls .

Municipal Garden
Is a picnic spot having a garden and an artificial mini lake with paddle boating facility. It is located at a distance of 4 km by rickshaw cycles, pony or by a car and 2 km via Waverly Convent School road on foot.

Mussoorie Lake
A newly developed picnic spot build by City Board & Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority, is situated at 6 km on Mussoorie-Dehradun road having a facility of pedaled boats. It offers a view of Doon Valley and nearby villages.

Bhatta Falls
7 km from Mussoorie on Mussoorie-Dehradun Road near Bhatta Village. Accessible by car or bus up to Bhatta from where the fall is 3 km by foot. A fall with different ponds for bathing and water amusements, an ideal place for a picnic.

Jharipani Fall
Located at 8.5 km from Mussoorie on Mussoorie-Jharipani road. One can go by local bus or car up to Jharipani from where the fall is about 1.5 km on foot.

Mossy Fall
The fall is surrounded by a dense forest and is 7 km from Mussoorie. One can go there via Barlowganj or Balahisar.

Sir George Everest's House
Park Estate is where one can find the remains of the building and laboratory of Sir George Everest, the Surveyor-General of India from 1830 to 1843. It is after George Everest that the world's highest peak Mt. Everest is named.^[3] It is 6 km from Gandhi Chowk / Library Bazaar and is accessible by vehicle, although the road is very rough beyond Haathi Paon. The place provides a view of Doon Valley on one side and a panoramic view of the Aglar River valley and the snow peaks of the Himalayan ranges on the other. It is a scenic walk from Library Bazaar, and a picnic spot.

Nag Devta Temple
An ancient temple dedicated to Snake God Lord Shiva and is situated on Cart Mackenzie Road about 6 km from Mussoorie on the way to Dehradun. Vehicles can go right up to the temple. This place provides an enchanting view of Mussoorie and the Doon Valley.

Jwalaji Temple (Benog Hill)
Situated at an altitude of 2240 m, this temple is 9 km west of Mussoorie. It is situated on the top of Benog Tibba (Hill) and contains an old idol of Goddess Durga. There is a view of the Aglar River valley. It cannot be accessed by vehicle although a motor road goes most of the way from Mussoorie.

Clouds End
This hotel is surrounded by thick deodar forest. The bungalow, built in 1838 by a British major, was one of the first four buildings of Mussoorie and has now been converted into a hotel. The place provides peace and calm and is full of flora and fauna.

Van Chetna Kendra
11 km to the South of library point lies an old sanctuary established in 1993 and covering an area of 339 hectares. It is famous for the extinct bird species Mountain Quail (Pahari Bater), which was last spotted in 1876.
Mussoorie is a popular destination for honeymooning couples, mainly because of its relatively cool climes and calm and lovely environment

How to get there:

By Road: 1) From Delhi is a 4 and Half hours drive with a distance of 268 KMs.
2)From Dehradun it is 35 minutes having distance of 31 KMs.
By Air : Nearest Air port is Dehradun.
By Train: Dehradun is nearest Railway Station connected with all Major cities in INDIA.

Best time to visit Mussorie is from September to June in every year.

YOUR RAILWAY TICKET WILL NEVER BE CONFIRMED IN INDIA

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 4 Dec 2013 04:55:00 -0800

YOUR RAILWAY TICKET WHETHER BOOKED AT WINDOW OR FROM IRCTC, WILL NEVER BE CONFIRMED.
YOUR WAITING BEFORE 60 DAYS WILL REMAIN AS IT IS LIKE THAT EVEN ON THE DATE OF JOURNEY.
WHY
READ THIS ITEM PUBLISHED IN MID-DAY ON 15-10-2012.
THIS IS HORRIBLE
READ....

October 15, 2012,

Mumbai

The 1.35 lakh agents appointed by the IRCTC book tickets in advance and then charge customers large sums; this means that direct bookings rarely get confirmed

Tired of booking train tickets and not knowing if they are confirmed till the eleventh hour? If your answer is yes, then here’s who you should blame: the growing breed of railway agents in the city, whose numbers have multiplied almost a hundredfold in the past six years.

A query filed under the Right to Information (RTI) Act by activist Manoranjan Roy has revealed some disturbing numbers, which indicate that agents are monopolising ticket bookings, making direct access almost impossible.

The response reveals that every month, an average of over one crore tickets are being booked by these agents. Between 2006 and 2012, their numbers have shot up from a modest 1,537 to a stupendous 1,35,157 — in the Mumbai division alone. Meanwhile, passengers languish in the waiting list, even if they make bookings three months in advance.
All these agents have been appointed by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC).
“It’s the same situation for a majority of passengers. They want to know why their bookings aren’t confirmed, and where the tickets are being tied up,” said Roy. He added that these agents charge huge amounts for confirmed tickets, making the most of the demand that they create by booking most of the tickets.
Roy is of the opinion that railway authorities have been turning a blind eye to the obvious black-marketing of tickets. “There is no vigilance on the agents. The black money taken by the agents from passengers desperate for tickets is not recorded. Though officially IRCTC has written that they don’t pay any commission to the agents authorised by them,” added Roy.
One of the reasons that the railways has suddenly spawned such a large drove of booking agents is the faltering online booking system on the IRCTC website.

We have been getting complaints that the website does not work properly and even after completing all the formalities and providing details like credit card numbers, the tickets don’t get booked. The passenger is left with no option but to approach the agent,” said a Railway official, requesting anonymity.
“No foolproof facilities are available for the aam aadmi. Those who can shell out money have access to special facilities. What about the passenger who can’t afford to book tickets through agents? Why doesn’t the railway do something for the common man?” asked Roy.
Roy also questioned the IRCTC for not doing anything to curb the superfluous numbers of agents, and instead continuing to appoint them.
“Why don’t they stick to online and window booking systems and enforce them strictly?” he said.
Subodh Jain, general manager of Central Railway, said, “The agents are appointed by the IRCTC and they know about the procedures. More people book tickets online these days. So, there are more agents connecting to it.”
Virender Singh, group general manager, IRCTC, said, “We are not controlling agents.” He refused to shed further light on the matter.
Expertspeak
Madhu Kotian, president of the Yatri Pravasi Sangh said, “The agent system should be discontinued by the railways. Nobody is benefiting from this.”
Rajiv Singhal, member, Zonal Railway Users Consultative Committee (ZRUCC), said, “The Railway should think of an alternative to agents. Also, they should decrease the 120 days prior ticket booking system. I don’t think that anybody but the agent benefits from this provision as very few can plan their trip four months in advance.”

Speak
Vipin Mishra, frequently travels to Varanasi
I am with many agents and sometimes I feel I should also become one. I have bought tickets at Rs 800 over the actual price. This is what the agents charge for tickets. This figure increases with demand. The railway authorities should put an end to this system and they will be able to earn more from direct booking.”
Janhavi Shah, final year student
My parents always ask me to book the tickets. It would be convenient if I could book the tickets online. I have even sat waiting for the tatkal quota to open, but as soon as I log in it gets full. The railway authorities should stop giving tickets to agents.”
Renu Shukla, Kandivli resident
Whenever I book tickets through the window or online, they never reach confirmed status. I don’t know why the railway authorities always harasses the common public. I know of many people who have faced problems similar to mine, and don’t have access to agents.

IN SUCH CORRUPT SITUATION WHAT COMMON MAN CAN DO ? ? ? ? ? ? ?

RATNAGAD NEAR PUNE (PHOTOS)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 2 Feb 2008 00:38:00 -0800

Next Time you plan for outing remember this beautiful place...........Ratnagad is just 100 km from Pune.

LAKES IN SHIMLA

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 22:50:00 -0800

RENUKA LAKE

LOCATION: Renuka lake (672 m) is connected by road and lies in Sirmour district. It is 123 k.m. from Parwanoo, 60 k.m. from Paonta Sahib and 37 k.m. from Nahan. With a circumference of 3214m, Renukaji is the largest natural lake in Himachal. Shaped like the profile of a reclining woman, this is regarded as the embodiment of the goddess Renuka. Near the lake's feet is another lake held sacred to her son, Parshurama. Both have temples built around them and the main temple to Renuka is regarded to have been built overnight in eighteen century. The lake lies in a long valley and surrounding slopes are covered with thick woods. Boating facility is available at the lake.ACCOMMODATION: The HPTDC has hotel Renuka ji near by. Dadahu (2 k.m.) has hotels, PWD and forest rest houses.

REWALSAR LAKE

LOCATION: At an altitude of 1360 m in district Mandi, 24 k.m. from Mandi town. It is square shaped with a shoreline of 735 m, this dark jewel rests on a mountain spur and is protected by a dense vegetation. The spot is held sacred by Hindus, Sikhs and Buddhists alike. Legend has it that the great teacher and 'Tatric'.Padmasambhava used his enormous power to take fight to Tibet from Rewalsar. Also known as Guru Rimpoche, it was under Padmasambhava's influence that Mahayana Buddhism took root in Tibet at Rewalsar, his spirit is said to reside in the tiny island of floating reed that drifts over the water. There are three Buddhist monasteries at Rewalsar. Rewalsar has three Hindu temples which are dedicated to Lord Krishna, Lord Shiva and to the sage Lomas. A small zoo is maintained near the lake. The lake of Kunt Bhyog (1750 m above sea level) lies above Rewalsar as do six other lakes of mythology. These are associated with the escape of 'Pandavs' from the burning palace of wax-an episode from the epic, Mahabharta.ACCOMODATION: HPTDC's Hotel Rewalsar, private hotels and rest houses.

KHAJJIAR LAKE

LOCATION: At an altitude of 1900 metres in district Chamba, 16 k.m. from Dalhousue and 25 k.m. from Chamba. Fed by tiny streams,this small lake lies at in the centre of large Khajjiar glade. The glade and the lake are held sacred to Khajjinag- after whom the place is named. Khajjiar has thick forest of the Kalatope sanctury surrounding its soft green grass.ACCOMODATION: HPTDC's hotel Devdar, hotels in the private sector and rest houses are available.

CHAMERA LAKE
LOCATION: In district Chamba, this is the reservoir of the Chamera dam built over the river Ravi. Phase-I of the project generates 540 MW of electricity. Phase-II which is under way will add another 300 MW. The lake offers a variety of water sports.

DASHIR LAKE
LOCATION: At an altitude of 4270 metres near the Rohtang pass that connects district Kullu and Lahaul. Also known as Dashaur and Sarkund this attractive lake has a depth of 3 metres.

SERUVALSAR LAKE
LOCATION: At an altitude of 3100 metres in district Kullu 20 k.m. from Ani in the direction of the jalori pass. This lake has a picturesque setting amidst pine forest.ACCOMODATION: Hotels and Rest houses at Kullu and Shoja.

PRASHAR LAKE
LOCATION: At an altitude of 2730 metres in district Mandi, 40 k.m. from Mandi town. The deep blue water at this beautiful lake is held sacred to the sage Prashar. A three tiered Pagoda-like temple dedicated to the sage lies by the lake - 'rishi' Prashar is said to have meditated here. Its remarkable setting is enhanced by a frame of snow draped peaks visible from the lake's edge, the water of the river Sutlej flows due south. The lake side and the near by villages are sites of various festival held at different times of the year.

BHRIGU LAKE
LOCATION: At an altitude of 4235 metres in district Kullu, this lies east of the Rohtang Pass and is about 6 k.m. from the village of Gulaba. The shores of this clear water lake are devoid of human habitation-yet it is visited regularly by the people of the area and is held sacred to 'rishi' Brighu. It also lies on several trek routes of the region.

MANIMAHESH LAKE
LOCATION: At an altitude of 4080 metres in district Chamba, 32 k.m. from Bharmaur. Held sacred to Lord Shiva this lake has in the Bundhil valley at the foot of Manimahesh ranges. The peaks of Manimahesh Kailash is regarded as one of the mythical abodes of Shiva. This is the venue of annual Manimahesh yatra.

NAKO LAKE
LOCATION: At an altitude of 3662 metres in the pooh sub-division of district Kinnaur. The lake is surrounded by willow and poplar trees - the village seems to be half buried by the lake's borders. On the northern side, are four Buddhist temples with stucco image impressions ascribed to saint Padmasambhava.

SURAJ TAL LAKE
LOCATION: At an altitude of 4950 metres below the summit of the Baralacha pass in the Lahaul division of district Lahaul and Spiti. The Baralacha connects Mandi and Lahaul to Ladakh and the lake which draws a considerable number of visitors - especially in summer - lies by its head. This is the source of river Bhaga.

CHANDRA TAL LAKE
LOCATION: At an altitude of 4300 metres and 6 k.m. from the Kunzum Pass in Lahaul & Spiti district that connects Spiti and Lahaul areas. Surrounded by snows and acres of scree, this deep blue-water lake has a circumference of 2.5 k.m. This is the source of the river Chandra. According to some believers, this is the spot from where the god Indra's chariot took the eldest Pandava brother, Yudhishtra to 'swarga' (heaven) in his mortal form.

GOBIND SAGAR
LOCATION: This vast reservoir lies in the district of Bilaspur and Una.The town of Bilaspur is 83 k.m. from the railway station at Anandpur Sahib. The Gobind Sagar on river Sutlej, has been created by the huge hydel dam at Bhakra and is named in honour of Gobind Singh the Tenth Sikh guru. One of the world's highest gravity dams, the Bhakra rises 225.5 m above its lowest foundations. Under the supervision of the famous American dam-builder, Harvey Slocum, work began in 1955 and was completed in 1962. Incidentally, Slocum had no formal training as an engineer, but his conceptions and designs have proven successful. To maintain the level of water, the flow of river Beas was also channeled to Gobind Sagar by the Beas-Sutlej link which was completed in 1976. Today, this dam feeds electricity and water to a large area the Gobind Sagar reservoir is 90 k.m. long and encompasses an area of approximately 170 sqkm. There are provisions for water sports speed boats and ferry rides. In October and November, when the water level of the reservoir is at its peak, a series of regattas are also organizing by the department of Tourism and Civil Aviation. Water-skiing, sailing, kayaking and water scooter racing are popular water sports activities during this period.ACCOMODATION: Bilaspur has both hotels and rest houses.

MAHARANA PRATAP SAGAR
LOCATION: Maharana Pratap Sagar is at 450 metres above sea level, 32 degrees North and 76 degrees East, In district Kangra, 170 Km from Chandigarh, 110 Km from the district headquarters Dharamshala. The closest railway stations are Mukerian- 30 Km, and Pathankot- 32 Km. The Settlements of Nagrota Suriyan and Jawalaji located on the Sagar’s periphery are connected by the charming Narrow gauge Kangra Railway Line that connects Pathankot to Joginder Nagar. The closest airport is Gaggal- 40 Kms. The Lake is well served by a Network of roads. Named in honour of great patriot Maharana Partap(1572-97 A.D.), Maharana Partap Sagar was once known as Pong Dam Reservoir. Its Reservoir has an area of 45,000 hects at maximum flooding-the level varies with every season and averages around 30,000 hects. Over 200 villages with a population of 85,000 people are scattered along the wetland. In 1983, the Sagar was declared a Wild Life Sanctuary and over 220 species of birds belonging to 54 families have been sighted over the waters and these include black headed gulls, plovers, terns, ducks. The land portion of the Sanctuary has barking dear, sambar, wild boars, leopards and claw-less others. 27 Species and sub species of fish belonging to six families have been recorded in the Sagar’s water. There is a branch of Directorate of Mountaineering and Allied Sports at the Sagar and year around activities include swimming, water skiing, surfing , rowing and sailing. The Directorate of Tourism and Civil Aviation provides equipment at the Sagar – this includes sale boats, paddle boats, speed aero boats. Various courses – beginners, intermediate and advanced – are also conducted at the Sagar.ACCOMODATION: Hotels, Guest Houses, Forest and PWD Rest Houses are available at nearly Dharamshala, Dehra, Sansarpur Terrace, Dada Siba and Nagrota Surian.

DAL LAKE
LOCATION: At an altitude of 1775 metres in district Kangra 11 k.m. from Dharamshala, surrounded by deodar trees, this is on the motor road to Talnu. Held sacred, this has a small shiva temple on its banks. The banks of the lake are enlivened during September by a fair attended-amongst other-by a large number of Gaddi folk.ACCOMODATION: Hotels and rest houses. The HPTDC has hotels both at Dharamshala and Mcleodganj.

SHIMLA - Trek Routes

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 04:17:00 -0800

Himachal Tourism has identified some exciting treks each with a new experience, which leads from one Mountain to another of varying altitude, appearance and formation, from a pine covered slopes to cold deserts under the expert guidance and care. The well trained camp team also offers warm hospitality and best services. Following is a list of treks, herbal treks, jeep safaris treks and mountaineering expeditions.

1)NAME OF THE TREK: Manali- Chamba- Sach Pass

Trek	Difficult
Maximum Height	3600 mts.
Requirements	Experience in difficult Trekking/ Mountaineering essential
Name of Trek	Manali- Chamba- Sach Pass
Period	May- June, September- October
Duration	9 Days

2) NAME OF THE TREK: Bharmaur – Kugti – Udaipur- Manali trek

Trek	Difficult
Maximum Height	5040 Mtrs.
Requirements	Experience in difficult Trekking essential
Name of Trek	Bharmaur – Kugti – Udaipur- Manali trek
Period	7 days

3) NAME OF THE TREK : Dharamsala – Nayagraon trek

Trek	Difficult
Maximum Height	3693 Mtrs.
Requirement	Pass trekking experience essential
Name of the Trek	Dharamsala – Nayagraon trek
Period	June to October
Duration	10 days

4) NAME OF THE TREK: Maidi to Nadaun (Hamirpur)

Trek	Moderate
Requirement	Experience in Trekking/ Mountaineering essential
Name of the Trek	Maidi to Nadaun (Hamirpur)
Period	November- March
Duration	5 days

5) NAME OF THE TREK : Hamirpur- Deotsidh- Sri Naina Devi

Trek	Moderate
Requirement	Experience in Trekking essential
Name of the Trek	Hamirpur- Deotsidh- Sri Naina Devi
Period	November- March
Duration	9 days

6) NAME OF THE TREK : Kinner Kailash Parikrama

Trek	Moderate
Maximum Height	5242 Mts.
Requirement	(Limited past experience in trekking essential)
Name of Trek	Kinner Kailash Parikrama
Period	May- September
Duration	7 Days

7) NAME OF THE TREK : Manali- Hamya Herbal Trek

Trek	Moderate
Maximum Height	4268 Mtrs.
Requirement	Limited Past experience in trekking essential
Name of the Trek	Manali- Hamya Herbal Trek
Period	June to September
Duration	8 days

8) NAME OF THE TREK : Morchella

Trek	Moderate
Maximum Height	4116 Mtrs.
Requirement	Limited Past experience in trekking essential
Name of the Trek	Morchella
Period	June to October
Duration	10 days

9) NAME OF THE TREK : Dharamsala- Chhota Bhangal over sari Pass Kullu

Trek	Moderate
Maximum Height	3760 Mtrs.
Requirement	experience in trekking essential
Name of the Trek	Dharamsala- Chhota Bhangal over sari Pass Kullu
Period	May- June, September- October
Duration	8 days

10) NAME OF THE TREK : Wild Trek (Kullu Valley)

Trek	Moderate
Maximum Height	3980 Mts.
Requirement	(Limited past experience in trekking essential)
Name of Trek	Wild Trek (Kullu Valley)
Period	May, June, August, September, October & November
Duration	6 Days

For other treks and detaisl regarding how to participate, please log on to:

http://www.himachaltourism.nic.in/trek.htm

SHIMLA - Ther Queen of Hills

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 04:03:00 -0800

Shimla, was the Summer capital of India under British rule . Presently, it is the state capital of Himachal Pradesh, with its population around 1.6 lacs (Shimla town only). Shimla has seen many important historical events such as the famous Shimla Pact between India & Pakistan which was signed here. The place is also famous for its natural beauty, architectural buildings, wooden crafts and apples

Shimla District lies between the longitude 77^o-0" and 78^o-19" east and latitude 30^o-45" and 31^o-44" north. It is bounded by Mandi and Kullu in the north, Kinnaur in the east, the state of Uttaranchal in the south, Sirmaur, district in the west. The elevation of the district ranges from 300 to 6000 metres. The topology of the district is rugged and tough. Shimla district derives its name from Shimla town which was once a small village. Shimla district in its present form came into existence from 1st Sept,1972 on the reorganisation of the districts of the state.

History of Shimla goes back to the period of Anglo-Gurkha war in the beginning of 19th century. In 1804 the Gurkhas , who had suffered a severe defeat at the hands of the Sikhs at the battle of Kangra, a hill fortress about sixty miles from Shimla, where according to some accounts they lost thousand of men in the fight and many others from disease, commenced to ravage the states and hills surrounding Shimla. Gurkhas built many forts around Shimla. One of these strongholds, the Jagatgarh fortress, was the origin of the modern Jutogh, the well known military cantonment adjoining Shimla. By 1808 the invaders had conquered all the fortified posts between the Jamuna and Satluj, and from their capital Arki began their ruthless rule over the neighbouring hill states, untill at length the people in their wretchedness appealed to the British for help. A small British force under Major General 'Sir David Ochterlony' was despatched to liberate the hill men from Gurkhas. Majority of hill chiefs responded to the call and joined the British forces. The rivals were engaged in the toughest battle at 3750 ft high Ramgarh fort at Nalagarh. A decisive battle took place near the fort at Malaon in which superior guns of the British overpowered the enemy. The battle of Malaon on 15th May 1815 ended the dream of the Gurkhas, to rule over this part of the land for any longer. After few days, an official declaration was made according to which all Chieftains who had joined British in expelling the Gurkhas were restored with their land under the British protection. The maharaja of Patiala who has also rendered invaluable services to the British was rewarded with land in the neighbourhood of the area now comprising Shimla. After the defeat of Gurkhas they were forced to sign the 'Treaty of Sanjauli' . The company retained the strategic forts of Sabathu, Kotgarh, Ramgarh and Sandoch.

Present day Shimla District comprises of 19 erstwhile hill states mainly Balson, Bushahr, Bhaji and Koti, Darkoti, Tharoch & Dhadi,Kumharsain, Khaneti & Delath, Dhami, Jubbal , Keothal, Rawingarh, Ratesh, Sangri.

Bushahr was one of the oldest of the hill states after Kashmir in the Western Himalayas. According to one legend .the Bushahr dynasty was founded by 'Pradhuman', the son of Lord Krishna. In order to marry the daughter of Banasur, the local chief of shonitpur(Sarahan), Pradhuman is said to have come to that place and after the death of Banasur in an encounter with him, he became the chief of Bushar and Kinnaur regions, since Banasur has no son. According to C.F.Kennedy , Bushar was founded by Danbar Singh an immigrant Rajput from Deccan in 1412 A.D. In 1914 Britishers recognised Padam Singh as legitimate heir and was crowned Raja of Rampur Bushahr. Ultimately in March, 1948 Rampur Bushahr became part and parcel of province of Himachal Pradesh.

Jubbal one of the Shimla Hill States with an area of 288 Sq miles was originally tributary to Sirmaur, but after Gurkha war, it became independent. Raja Karam Chand was the founder of the Jubbal State. Jubbal merged with the Indian Union after independence and became a part of Himachal Pradesh on 15th April, 1948. at the time of merger 'Dig Vijay Singh ' was the ruler of the state.

Shimla District in its present form came into existence from 1st September 1972 on the reorganisation of the districts of the state. After the reorganisation , the erstwhile Mahasu district lost its entity and its major portion was merged with Shimla. Shimla district derives its name from Shimla town, the district headquarters and now state capital of Himachal Pradesh

The Shimla District comprises of 7 Sub-Divisions, 12 Tehsils and
5 Sub Tehsils.

Shimla Town

Shimla is the Capital Town of Himachal Pradesh. It was formerly the summer capital during the British Rule. The town of Shimla is built over several hills and connecting ridges. The important hills are Jakhu(8050 ft), Prospect Hill (7140 ft), Observatory Hill ( 7050 ft), Elysium Hill (7400 ft), and Summer Hill (6900 ft). There is a great controversy over the origin of the name Shimla. The name Shimla was derived from 'Shyamalaya' meaning blue house said to be the name of house built of blue slate by a faqir on Jakhu. According to one version Shimla takes it name from 'Shamla' meaning a blue female another name for Goddess Kali. The place was on the Jakhu Hillside, there was a temple of Goddess Kali. During the British period the image of the Goddess was shifted to a new place ,now famous Kali Bari Temple. Shimla remained unnoticed during the Gurkha War. It was only in 1819 A.D. that the then Assistant Political Agent of hill states Lt. Ross set up first British residence, a mere wood cottage. His successor Lt. Charles Patt Kennedy' errected the first pucca house in 1822 named after Lt. Kennedy as 'Kennedy House'.

The construction of Hindustan Tibet road was started in 1850-51 commencing from Kalka and first lap was upto Shimla. The Road upto Shimla came to be used for wheeled traffic by 1860. A 560 feet long tunnel was constructed beyond Sanjauli.

In 1864 Shimla was declared as the summer capital of India. After Independence, Shimla became the capital of Punjab and was later named the capital of Himachal Pradesh. In 1903 a rail line was constructed between Kalka and Shimla.

Shimla has been blessed with all the natural bounties, one can think of. Dwelling on a panoramic location, the hilly town is surrounded by green pastures and snow-capped peaks. The spectacular cool hills accompanied by the structures made during the colonial era create an aura, which is very different from other hill stations. Bulging at its seams with unprecedented expansion, Shimla retains its colonial heritage, with grand old buildings, among them are the stately Viceregal Lodge, Charming iron lamp posts and Anglo-Saxon names. The Mall, packed with shops and eateries, is the centre of attraction of the town, and Scandal Point, associated with the former Maharaja of Patiala's escapades, offers a view of distant snow clad peaks. In 1946 leaders of the Indian nationalist movement came to Shimla for a crucial conference that paved the way to Independence. Shimla’s legacy of British control has left in somewhat of Aesthetic anomaly: an Indian town, a state capital, no less that looks and feels like a village in Northern England.

The completion of the Kalka-Shimla narrow-gauge railway line, in 1903, gave a fillip to the towns development. After Independence, Shimla was initially the capital of Punjab. Following the creation of Himachal Pradesh, in 1966, it was designated the capital of the Himachal Pradesh.

GENERAL INFORMATION

AREA: 5131 sq. km

POPULATION: 7.22 lakh

THE RIDGE: The large open space in the heart of town presents excellent view of the mountain ranges. Shimla's landmarks-the Neo-Gothic structure of Christ Church and the new-Tudor library building are worth seeing.

THE MALL: Main shopping centre of shimla with restaurants. the Gaiety Theatre, which is a reproduction of an old British theatre is a center of cultural activities. A passenger lift of HPTDC can be taken from the Cart Road and the Mall. Lakkar Bazaar adjacent to the Ridge is popular for its wood crafts and souvenirs.

KALI BARI TEMPLE: Few yards from scandal Point towards General Post Office. It is believed that the idol of Goddess Shayamla is enshrined there.

JAKHOO TEMPLE (2.5 Km) 2455 m: Shimla's highest peak offers a panoramic view of the town. An ancient "Lord Hanuman" temple. Way from Ridge near Church (on foot) One can also hire pony or taxi to visit the temple.

STATE MEUSEUM (3 Km): Ancient Historical Sculptors and paintings of Himachal Pradesh. Visiting hours 10 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Monday and gazetted holidays.

INDIAN INSTITUTE OF ADVANCED STUDIES (4 Km) 1983 m: This magnificent English renaissance structure was the former Viceregal Lodge. Its lawns and woodland are added attractions. Entry by ticket.

PROSPECT HILL (5 Km) 2155 m: Crowned by a temple dedicated to Kamna Devi 15 minutes walk from Boileauganj on shimla Bilaspur road. the hill offers a spectacular views of the area.

SUMMER HILL (7 Km) 1983 m: A picturesque superb on Shimla-Kalka Railway line. Offers shady walks in quiet surroundings. The Father of Nation, Mahatma Gandhi during his visit to Shimla lived in the elegant Georgian House of Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur. HP University is situated here.

CHADWICK FALLS (7 Km) 1586 m: Surrounded by thick forests. About 45 minutes walk from Summer Hill Chowk.

SANKAT MOCHAN (7 Km) 1975 m: On Shimla-Kalka road (NH-22) is famous "Lord Hanuman" temple. It commands an excellent view of Shimla town. The place can be visited by Bus/Taxi.

TARA DEVI (11 Km) 1851 m: On Shimla - Kalka road (NH-22) this holy place is accessible by Rail, bus and car. From the station/road-one can visit the temple either on foot or by taxi / jeep.

FAGU (22 Km) 2450 m: On Hindustan-Tibet Road. It has enchanting views. Himachal Tourism runs the Hotel peach Blossom.

NARKANDA (60 Km) 2708 m: On the Hindustan Tibet road, Narkanda offers spectacular views of snow ranges. An uphill trek through Deodar woods leads to Hatu Peak (8 Km). Ancient temple of Hatu Mata is alive with skiers. HPTDC runs Hotel Hatu and in winters short skiing courses are organised.

KOTGARH (82 Km) 1830 m: Motorable, bifurcation from Narkanda (18 Km) Land of apples and apricots.

RAMPUR (140 Km) 924 m: On the Hindustan Tibet Road. Once the capital of the Princely State of Bushahr, the town is situated on the banks of Satluj river, Big Commercial Centre and famous International Lavi fare which is held in November every year, Dumgir Buddhist Temple, Padam Palace, Raghunath Temple, Ayodhya temple and Narsingh Temple, are worth visiting. Himachal Tourism runs a tourist Complex and air conditioned Cafe, Satluj.

SARAHAN (176 Km) 1950 m: On Hindustan Tibet Road from Jeori Sarahan is (17 Km) with spectacular view of Srikhand range. Sarahan has the majestic Bhimkali Temple. Himachal Tourism runs Hotel Shrikhand. Saharan is the gateway to Kinnaur. A Pheasant Breading Centre and stadium are worth visiting.

KHARAPATHHAR (85 Km) 2673 m: Motorable on Shimla-Rohru road. A famous religious shrine Giriganga is 7 Km on foot or by jeep. HPTDC Tourist complex Giriganga Resort under construction.

JUBBAL (90 Km) 1892 m: Headquarters of the erstwhile Princely State, Jubbal has a superbly maintained Palace which was designed by a French architect in the 1930 and is remarkable mix of European and indigenous styles.

HATKOTI (104 Km) 1400 m: Motorable on shimla-Rohru highway. Famous for ancient temple of Mata Hateswari in the midst of paddy fields on the right bank of the Pabber river. HPTDC runs Hotel Pabber here.

MASHOBRA (12 Km) 2148 m: Motorable on Shimla-Naldehra road. Surrounded by thick forests and offers ideal walks. Goddess Durga temple is worth seeing.

CRAIGNANO (18 Km) 2149 m: Motorable on Shimla-Naldhera road, Ideal picnic spot with lawns and garden.

NALDEHRA (22 Km) 2044 m: Motorable On Shimla Tattapani road. this is a nine hole golf course. It was designed by the British viceroy, Lord Curzon who was so enchanted by this place that he gave his daughter Alexandra, Naldehra as her second name. Ancient Nag temple is also situated here. Himachal Tourism runs Hotel Golf Glade here.

TATTAPANI (65 Km) 680 m: Motorable on Shimla-Mandi Highway via Naldehra. Tattapani has hot water springs having sulpher contents, also Hindu temples and Shiv Goofa at Saraur (4 Km) are worth seeing places

CHINDI (94 Km) 2010 m: Motorable on Shimla-Mandi highway via Tattapani - A beautiful place in Karsog Valley. Himachal tourism's tourist Resort is opening shortly. One can also visit famous mahunag Temple (18 Km). Mamleshwar mahadev Temple (13 Km) Kamaksha Devi temple (19 Km) Pangna Killa/temple (8 Km) and Shikari Devi Temple (18 Km).

**Climate Table**
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mean daily maximum temperature (°C)	8	9	13	18	22	23	21	20	20	17	14	10
Mean daily temperature (°C)	4	5	9	14	18	19	18	17	16	14	10	6
Mean daily minimum temperature (°C)	1	2	6	10	14	15	15	15	13	12	6	3
Average number of rain days	4	5	4	4	4	9	17	17	7	2	1	2
Source: Weatherbase

KERALA - GOD'S OWN COUNTRY

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 03:31:00 -0800

Kerala is one of the most beautiful states in India on Arabian Coast. With the Arabian Sea in the west, the Western Ghats towering 500-2700 ms in the east and networked by 44 rivers, Kerala enjoys unique geographical features that have made it one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Asia. An equable climate. A long shoreline with serene beaches. Tranquil streches of emerald backwaters. Lush hill stations and exotic wildlife. Waterfalls. Sprawling plantations and paddy fields. Ayurvedic health holidays. Enchanting art forms. Magical festivals. Historic and cultural monuments. An exotic cuisine... All of which offer you a unique experience. And what's more, every one of these charming destinations is only a two hour drive from the other. A singular advantage no other destination offers.

Kerala, India's most advanced society : A hundred percent literate people. World-class health care systems. India's lowest infant mortality and highest life expectancy rates. The highest physical quality of life in India. Peaceful and pristine, Kerala is also India's cleanest state.

In Kerala, you can visit following places, which are enjoyable and must visit:

A cruise through the canals of AlappuzhaIf you are cherishing the idea of spending some good time, amidst the sights and sounds of the hydrosphere,...

Adyanpara: Located in the Kurumbalangode village of Nilambur taluk, Adyanpara is famous for its waterfalls...

Agasthyarkoodam: Location :70 km from Thiruvananthapuram. Attractions :Rare herbs and medicinal plants. ...

Akkulam Tourist Village: Location : About 10 km from Thiruvananthapuram city, south Kerala. Attractions: A ...

Alappuzha: Area: 1414 sq. km Population: 21,05,349(2001 census) Altitude: Sea level With the Arabian...

Alappuzha - Aquatourism: With the Arabian sea on the west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons and freshwater rivers ...

Alappuzha beach: Location: Alappuzha beach, near Alappuzha town, south Kerala.Referred to as the Venice of the East,...

Alathiyur Hanuman Temple: (12 km from Tirur): One of the famous Hanuman Temples in Kerala and also dedicated to Sree Rama and ...

Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple: (15 km south of Alappuzha)Built in the typical Kerala architectural style, this temple is famous all...

Ambalavayal Heritage Museum: Location:12 km south of Sulthan Bathery, Wayanad district. Visiting hours : 10:00 am to 5...

Amrithamedu: Amrithamedu, popularly known as Kurisumala is a pilgrim centre as well as a trekker’s delight. Peerumedu...

Ananthapura Lake Temple: 30 km from Bekal, this 9th century temple is the only lake temple in Kerala and is the moolas...

Anayirankal: (22 km from Munnar) It's a lush green carpet of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir...

Anchuvilakku (22 km from Kottayam): This stone lamp post, a typical example of Kerala architecture, was built near the Changanacherry bo...

Anjengo: Located about 36 Kms north of Thiruvananthapuram, near the famed beach of Varkala, and lying on the...

Official website of Keral is : http://www.keralatourism.org

GOA - golden sand beaches

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 4 Nov 2007 22:10:00 -0800

Goa pronunciation (Portuguese: Goa) is India's smallest state in terms of area and the fourth smallest in terms of 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.

Panaji (Panjim) is the state's capital. Vasco da Gama (Vasco) is the largest city. The historic city of Margao still exhibits the influence of Portuguese culture. Portuguese merchants first landed in Goa in the 15th century, and annexed it soon after. The Portuguese colony existed for about 450 years (one of the longest held colonial possessions in the world), until it was taken over by India in 1961.

Renowned for its beaches, Goa is visited by hundreds of thousands of international and domestic tourists each year. Goa is also known for its temples and world heritage architecture including the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, which makes it one of the biggest Christian pilgrimage sites in Asia. Goa also has rich flora and fauna, owing to its location on the Western Ghats range, which is classified as a biodiversity hotspot.

Origin of name

The name Goa came to European languages from the Portuguese colonisers, but its precise origin is unclear. The Indian epic Mahabharata refers to the area now known as Goa, as 'Goparashtra' or 'Govarashtra"' which means a nation of cowherds. 'Gopakapuri' or 'Gapakapattana' were used in some ancient Sanskrit texts, and these names were also mentioned in other sacred Hindu texts such as the Harivansa and the Skanda Purana. In the latter, Goa is also known as "Gomanchala". Gove, Govapuri, Gopakpattan, and Gomant are some other names that the region is referred to in certain inscriptions and texts such as the Puranas. It has also been known as "Apparent".

History of Goa

A chapel in Old Goa, an example of Portuguese architecture.
A chapel in Old Goa, an example of Portuguese architecture.

Goa's known history stretches back to the 3rd century BC, when it formed part of the Mauryan Empire.[5] It was later ruled by the Satavahanas of Kolhapur, around two thousand years ago and passed on to the Chalukyas of Badami, who controlled it between 580 to 750. Over the next few centuries Goa was successively ruled by the Silharas, the Kadambas and the Chalukyas of Kalyani, rulers of Deccan India.[6] The Kadambas, a local Hindu dynasty based at Chandrapura, (present day Chandor - Salcete), laid an indelible mark on the course of Goa's pre-colonial history and culture.

In 1312, Goa came under the governance of the Delhi Sultanate. However, the kingdom's grip on the region was weak, and by 1370 they were forced to surrender it to Harihara I of the Vijayanagara empire. The Vijayanagara monarchs held on to the territory until 1469, when it was appropriated by the Bahmani sultans of Gulbarga. After that dynasty crumbled, the area fell to the hands of the Adil Shahis of Bijapur who made Velha Goa their auxiliary capital.

In 1498, Vasco da Gama became the first European to set foot in India through a sea route, landing in Calicut (Kozhikode) in Kerala, followed by an arrival in what is now known as Old Goa. Goa, then a term referring to the City of Goa on the southern bank of the River Mandovi, was the largest trading centre on India's western coast. The Portuguese arrived with the intention of setting up a colony and seizing control of the spice trade from other European powers after traditional land routes to India had been closed by the Ottoman Turks. Later, in 1510, Portuguese admiral Afonso de Albuquerque defeated the ruling Bijapur kings with the help of a local ally, Timayya, leading to the establishment of a permanent settlement in Velha Goa (or Old Goa). The Portuguese intended it to be a colony and a naval base, distinct from the fortified enclaves established elsewhere along India's coasts.
Ruins of Fort Aguada in north Goa; one of the defences that the Portuguese built during their reign.
Ruins of Fort Aguada in north Goa; one of the defences that the Portuguese built during their reign.

With the imposition of the Inquisition (1560–1812), many of the local residents were forcibly converted to Christianity by missionaries, threatened by punishment or confiscation of land, titles or property.[citation needed] Many converts however retained parts of their Hindu heritage. To escape the Inquisition and harassment, thousands fled the state, settling down in the neighbouring towns of Mangalore and Karwar in Karnataka, and Savantwadi in Maharashtra. With the arrival of the other European powers in India in the 16th century, most Portuguese possessions were surrounded by the British and the Dutch. Goa soon became Portugal's most important possession in India, and was granted the same civic privileges as Lisbon In 1843 the capital was moved to Panjim from Velha Goa. By mid-18th century the area under occupation had expanded to most of Goa's present day state limits.

After India gained independence from the British in 1947, Portugal refused to accede to India's demand to relinquish their control of its enclave. Resolution 1541 by the United Nations General Assembly in 1960 noted that Goa was non-self-governing and favoured self determination. Finally, on December 12, 1961, the Indian army with 40,000 troops moved in as part of Operation Vijay. Fighting lasted for twenty-six hours before the Portuguese garrison surrendered. Goa, along with Daman and Diu (enclaves lying to the north of Maharashtra), was made into a centrally administered Union Territory on India. India's takeover of Goa is commemorated on December 19 (Liberation Day). The UN Security Council considered a resolution condemning the invasion which was vetoed by the Soviet Union. Most nations later recognised India's action, and Portugal recognised it after the Carnation Revolution in 1974. On May 30, 1987, the Union Territory was split, and Goa was elevated as India's twenty-fifth state, with Daman and Diu remaining Union Territories. The Supreme Court of India maintains it was conquest not a "liberation" Since Goans were not offered the UN mandated plebiscite.

Geographical details

An unrecognized poet once described the physical shape of Goa as one half of a heart, the other half is safely carried in the heart of every Goan. The Sahyadari Ghats hover protectively to the east of Goa where the height of this coastal state, rises to 1022 mt above sea level. The Arabian Sea laps at Goa’s long Western coastline. Goa’s rivers criss-cross the state and empty into the Arabian Sea. To the North of Goa lies Maharashtra and to the South and East lies Karnataka.

Area – 3702 sq km

Population – Almost 15 lakh people

Altitude – Sea Level to 1022 mts

Location – Between Latitudes 15 48’00” N and 14 53’ 54” N and Longitudes 74 20’13” E and 73 40’33” E

Neighbouring Cities – Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra towards the North, Belgaum to the East, Karwar district of Karnataka to the South and the Arabian Sea to the West

Major Rivers – Tiracol, Chapora, Mandovi, Zuari, Sal and Talpona

Main Beaches – Arambol, Mandrem, Morjim, Vagator, Anjuna, Baga, Calangute, Sinquerim, Miramar are major beaches in the North with Majorda, Betalbatim, Colva, Benaulim, Varca, Cavelossim and Palolem in the south

Feasts fairs & festivals

The reason why there is so much interfaith participation in festivals and festas and zatras, in Shigmo and Ganesh Chaturthi and the Carnival, in Christmas, Dussehra and Diwali is because the people of Goa follow the religion of being Goan first. Everything else springs from that fountainhead.

Many Goan festivals are actually zatras (feasts) of the local or family deity celebrated at the temple of the god or goddess. It is a festive and colourful occasion in the temple complex with thousands of devotees taking part in the celebrations and the palakhi (palanquin) procession.

Other festivals like Dussehra, Diwali and Holi are the same as those celebrated around India but with the characterstic Goan flavour. The Goan Hindu community mainly celebrates Ganesh Chathurti, Gudi Padwa, Diwali, Dussehra, Holi, Rakshabandhan, Ramnavmi and Krishnajanmashtami.

Goa, a land of feasts, fairs and festivals. Festivals are an integral part of Goan life. Every little hamlet has a tiny temple or a church having a special annual Zatra or a festa. An outstanding aspect of life in Goa is its harmony and there is always a reason to celebrate. The confluence of cultures is reflected vividly in the music of the church and the hymns of the temple.

Revelry, music and dance, flow through the blood of the Goan community. As a result of 450 years of colonization by the Portuguese, Goan music has evolved to a form that is quite different from traditional Indian music. This historic amalgamation from the East and West has produced some of India’s best artistes such as Lata Mangueshkar and Remo Fernandes. While Lata Mangueskar has brought classical Indian music to the world, Remo has succeeded in bringing a unique blend of Indo-Western pop. The most popular forms of post Portuguese music were the mando and the dulpod, whilst dekhni is one of the most well-known forms of dance.

Shigmo

This is Goa’s answer to Holi, which is a festival of colour. Huge dance troupes perform intricate movements of folk dances on the road all through the length of the parade. Many troupes number more than 100 and they dance tirelessly, as they have been doing for centuries. The Shigmo float parade has become magnificent because artists from different villages come forward with their best ideas, engineers put in their mite to create pageants that are lifelike as to movement but gigantic as to size. People from far and near line the streets to watch the parade go by in all its glorious colour and sound, a process which can take more than three hours.

Dussehra

This is an auspicious day for starting new ventures and buying new vehicles. You see them draped in fresh marigold flowers driving slowly up and down the city roads. All is considered auspicious on this day “Vijayadashmi” which is marked with elaborate ceremonies at most major temples of Goa.

Ganesh Chaturthi or Chovoth

Ganesh Chaturthi, undoubtedly, is the most popular festival of Goa. Celebrated around August or September, it sees the return of most Goans to their native place of birth or their ancestral houses to join the entire family. Most towns and cities in Goa wear a deserted look as Goans return to their native places in the hinterland. Chaturthi spreads over several days in celebrations. Heavily decorated clay idols of Lord Ganesh get ready to receive offerings and prayers from the devotees. The end of Chaturthi is marked by a procession leading to the immersion of the idol, into a tank, in a landlocked area, the river or the sea. Before the idol is removed from its stand for immersion, the devotees beseech Lord Ganesh for the welfare of the household and its members.

Diwali

Diwali, the festival of lights is celebrated all over India. Its roots go back more than 7000 years to the time when Lord Ram killed the demon king Ravan. Ram was welcomed in his hometown Ayodhya by a celebration of crackers and lights. In northern India, the festival ends when an effigy of Ravan is burnt with an arrow of Ram.

The original form of Diwali is Deepawali, which literally means a row of lights. During Diwali, the feast of lamps, every house is lit with little earthenware vessels containing oil and a lighted wick, and groups of men and women assemble along the river bank setting these little lanterns afloat on tiny rafts and watching with intense interest the frail craft, as they float down streams. The festivity is in honour of Goddess Lakshmi, the consort of Vishnu, one of the trinity.

The story behind the origin of Diwali is that Lord Vishnu in his eighth incarnation as Krishna, destroyed the demon Narakasura, who was causing great unhappiness amongst the people of the world. Diwali or Narakachaturthi celebrates the end of this evil.

In Goa the effigies of Narkasur as the demon King Ravan are burned one day before Diwali. All around Goa, gigantic straw and paper effigies of Narkasur - dressed in colourful paper clothes and armed with swords and other armaments - are erected in the days preceding Diwali. They are then burnt just before sunrise.

Deepawali (Diwali) festival is a four day festival, which includes Laxmi Pujan, Narak Chaturdashi, Deepawali and Bhau Beej. Laxmi Pujan is the day, when people buy new utensils. Narak Chaturdashi is known as Chhoti Diwali (minor Diwali) when in every household 5-7 panteo (lamps) are lit on the door and corners.

Diwali falls on the day of Amavaseya, the next day of which is called Pratipad, when every kind of transaction, receipt or payment and business is postponed. On this day, many people try the their luck of gambling.

Bhau beej falls on the next day, when the brothers visit their sisters, out of love and affection.

During such time, the business men close their books of old accounts and start new ones. This denotes the giving up of bad habits and cultivating new attitudes.

Gokulashtami

Gokulashtami is a community celebration with people visiting local Krishna temples, which are specially decorated and lit for the occasion. A special ritual of the day is enacted by the local youth who form human pyramid to reach the pot full of curds (dahi-handi) tied to a rope high above the road and break it.

A little before midnight, devotees pour into temples to participate in the special 'Arati' and to relive the birth of Krishna. Till midnight, devotional songs are sung in anticipation of the holy birth. Special cradles are installed at temples and a small statue of the "Balgopal" (child image of Krishna) is placed in them.

Holi

Holi is the festival of colors. The importance of colour is that each colour stands for positive energy bringing about compassion, understanding, prosperity, optimism, Nature’s bounty, loyalty, trust, love and compassion.

In some places in Goa, the night before the full moon, people gather to light bonfires to burn the dried leaves and twigs. The fire signifies the destruction of evil - the burning of the 'Holika' - a mythological character.

On the next day, people of all ages come outside and playfully drench each other with coloured water. Brightly coloured powders are applied on faces, and there is plenty of music, dance and sweets.

Young and the old smear colours on friends and family. Water balloons, dry colours, and washable dyes are used to douse just about anyone in sight on the roads on the day of Holi. The vibrant use of colours symbolises the advent of a colourful and prosperous spring season.

Holi is celebrated by people from all castes and social strata in Goa. The celebrations start in the morning; recede around afternoon when the colour daubing stops. Noise and the clamour recedes, and silence reigns. In the evening, once again people visit the neighborhood with families and friends to greet them with good wishes.

Saptah

In terms of size and the number of stalls and crowds in the port town of Vasco, Saptah has to be the biggest festival in Goa. It also goes on for seven days which makes it the longest festival in Goa. It is celebrated in the month of Shravan.

The word Saptah means ‘seven days’ but the stalls continue selling their wares for double the time. The festival which is more than a hundred years old, is celebrated in the temple of Lord Damodar in the centre of the city

Legend has it that in 1898 there was a cholera or plague epidemic in the city. The local residents turned to Lord Damodar, an incarnation of Lord Shiva for help. They went to Zambaulim temple (near Margao) of Lord Damodar and brought a coconut as prasad to be installed for worship in Vasco. The initial installation was at the Old Mata High School.

As luck would have it, their prayers were successful and the epidemic died out once the worship began. A leading businessman of the time, donated a part of his residence premises to install the idol of Lord Damodar. This make-shift temple is the centre of the celebrations and remains attached to the original house even today.

The Saptah starts with the main pooja being offered at the Old Mata High School, from where the anointed coconut is taken out in a procession to the Lord Damodar temple. The coconut used for the previous year is taken in a procession around the city and then released in the sea at Kharewada.

A specially selected person carries the sacred coconut. Along with him, a troupe of dancers goes around the city visiting the residences of prominent citizens. The performance of the troupe is called Gopalkala by the locals and is a sight to behold in the pouring rain. The dancers are also drenched by water thrown by the people from the houses they visit.

After the immersion of the old coconut, the people return to the temple and anoint a new coconut amidst singing of bhajans (devotional songs). The bhajans continue uninterrupted for 24 hours.

A glittering ceremony takes place at night with specially decorated tableaux coming from various wards of the port town. These are known as 'pars'. People come here from all over the state to watch the parade.

There is also a cultural programme at night with devotional songs for which wellknown artistes perform.

The temple is located on the main avenue of the city, the Swatantra Path, and the biggest crowds are seen here. Consequently, the entire main road is closed for traffic for the seven days of celebration.

Christian festivals

The Carnival

Carnival is the annual four-day celebration which begins on the Saturday before Ash Wednesday. Saturday, Sunday Monday and Tuesday are the days when Christians of Latin extraction went into a celebration of wild living, eating, drinking and being merry before applying holy ash on their foreheads on Ash Wednesday heralding a 40-day period of penance and abstinence before Easter and the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. The four-day Carnaval has become world famous in Rio, Brazil as is the Goa Carnival in India. Pulsating rhythms of guitars and folk songs, drumbeats that keep time with the pounding of your heart and a majestic colourful parade of floats and dancing troupes, complete with clowns and people in fancy dress. The lead float is impressively decorated, and no wonder – since it is the float of King Momo. This is a fat jolly individual who is carefully selected every year to ‘rule’ Goa for four fun-filled days.

Feast of St Francis Xavier

This is the big feast of Goa. The Feast of St Francis Xavier is held on the 3 rd of December. The venue for the feast is the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa. St Francis Xavier is the patron saint of Goa and attracts devotees from all over the world. His body has been preserved for centuries and lies in an exquisite silver casket at the Basilica and is displayed every ten years. However, the feast is celebrated every year and if you wish to pay your respects to the saint, you can be a part of this feast. St Xavier was a great Jesuit missionary, who preached the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the people of Asia.

Born in Spain on April 7, 1506, he came to India with the Portuguese Viceroy of Goa in 1543, and immediately undertook the task of influencing the Goan people.

He went from street to street with a hired town crier, asking people to attend his meetings and listen to his sermons. He baptized the inhabitants of 30 villages. To spread the message of Christ, he sailed to the Spice Islands in 1545, and then went on to Japan in 1549 for a year. His greatest success is recorded in Japan, where he converted hundreds to Christianity. After returning to India for a brief 15 months, he proceeded to China, against the wishes of the Portuguese viceroy. It was on the Sancian Island, about 10-km from the mainland of China that he died of fever on December 2, 1552.

Legend
According to legend, some Portuguese merchants found him just before he breathed his last. They performed his last rites on the following day, and buried him in a box partly filled with unslaked lime. A few months later, a Jesuit brother disinterred the body and discovered, to his surprise, that it had not decomposed at all. He cut a finger from the body and was astonished to see blood ooze out. When this was reported to the Vatican, the title of Saint was conferred upon Xavier.

The body was interred in a cemetery in Malacca for about two years before it was brought to its final resting place in Goa. Until then, even though the body had not been anointed, it was found to be only slightly affected by death. Before the mortal remains of the saint were placed in a silver casket in the Church of Bom Jesus, one hand was cut off from the body.

The Healing Power
Pieces of the hand were distributed to various parts of the world, under orders of the Pope. Every ten years until 1994, on the anniversary of his death, St Xavier's body would be brought out and kept in a glass case, with the feet exposed, for all to see and worship. For the exposition, people from all over India would flock to the church for a glimpse of the saint.

There are many stalls selling trinkets and souvenirs in the fair that is held on the occasion. A wide variety of food and drinks are also available. The pilgrimage turns into a picnic for quite a few families, as they shop in the little lanes decorated with streamers. The ambience of the church site is happy and festive.

Christmas

The market places are all embellished with tinsel and buntings and Santas distributing sweets to children. Decorated and glittering Christmas trees are all over the place.

For the devout, the celebrations begin on Christmas Eve. Carols are sung and various churches organize the midnight Mass. The service on Christmas Day is attended by Christians dressed in new clothes. After the morning service is over, people assemble in their homes for family get-togethers.

In Goa, Christmas is celebrated in the European way with the celebrations revolving around the family. But it has strands woven in that go to make it a Goan one. A week or 10 days before Christmas, a family group or a village group with one among them dressed as Santa go carol singing with a box to raise funds. These funds are normally contributed towards a meal for the poor.

This is in keeping with the spirit of the occasion that is to share with the less privileged. On Christmas Eve, a star made of a wooden frame and kite paper by the family members is hung outside the house.

Feast of the Three Kings

It is a tiny centuries-old stone chapel of Nossa Senhora dos Remedios or Our Lady of Cures perched on a hill in Quelim, Salcete. The beautiful statue of Mother Mary holding the Child Jesus in one arm and a small vase in the other, which holds the cure for all ills.

The Lady of the Mount is famous for her wondrous protection and miracles and is also reputed to make barren women fertile. On the day of the feast Mother Mary is covered with jewellery as tokens of gratitude by Catholics and Hindus alike for favors and blessings received.

However, some historians state that the site now occupied by the Chapel of Remedios was once the site of a Hindu temple. Perhaps that's the reason why a large number of Hindu devotees make the yearly pilgrimage to the Mount to worship the Madonna, bringing with them offerings of flowers, incense, and candles.

It is on the Festa dos Reis or the Epiphany on January 6 that the isolated Hill of Remedios and chapel suddenly spring to life and activity. Come early dawn, kettledrums and the blare of trumpets, announce to the sleepy little neighboring villages that the day of rejoicing and festivity has arrived.

The tolling bells call the faithful to prayer and devotees visit the shrine in a non-stop stream. There's now an excellent road winding its way up the steep hill right to the door of the chapel, making the ascent possible by car. Still, most of the devotees prefer to climb up the hill.

Even the very old and infirm make their way up for nine consecutive days to hear Mass and recite the Rosary before the Lady of the Blue Mantle. Many come to offer their thanks for fulfilling their wishes. The devotees are always led by a drummer-boy with his kettledrum who, by the loud beat of his drum, announces another favour having being granted by the Lady of Remedios.

The dramatic climax is reached on January 6, the day of the Feast of the Magi, when three little boys ranging in years from 8 to 10 are selected as kings from the three neighbouring villages of Quelim, Cansaulim and Arrosim to bring their gifts of gold, myrrh, and frankincense to the Infant Jesus.

Throughout the year expectations and excitement run high as to who will be the fortunate ones chosen as it must be either a son or grandson from these three villages; no outsider can claim this privilege or honour.

The crowds from all parts of Goa gather on the hill to attend the Mass and get a glimpse of the three kings. An extensive fair also springs up covering the entire hilltop. One can buy anything from a meal to copper and brassware, furniture, clothes, toys, trinkets, sweetmeats, glass bangles and spices of all sorts.

The surging crowds congregate on the hill's edge to watch the three kings from three different routes make their appearance. Mounted on white horses, they make their way up, outfitted in their royal garments elaborately embroidered in gold and silver, a crown studded with glittering stones on their heads, and a whole procession of relatives, friends, retinues bringing up the rear.

Each procession is preceded by a brass band played as loud music and bursting of crackers all the way up. The crowd in a frenzy of enthusiasm hails the Magi with a deafening ovation. The kings dismount from their white steeds, and are solemnly led to the special seats of honor reserved for them to assist at the High Mass.

After the service, they are led down with the same traditional ceremony with which they were brought up the hill. The whole picturesque scene is a color-drenched dream of ancient pomp, pageantry and glory.

After midday, one will not find a single soul anywhere near by. The huge crowds disappear as mysteriously as the huge giant fair, within a few hours, while the flags, buntings and other fanciful decorations are all removed.

Since no priest consents to reside in the parochial house, the chapel is closed till the next annual feast. During the year should any devotee want a mass of thanksgiving to be said at the shrine, he goes up with the priest.

The reason for this fear of the Mount is the belief that the place is haunted by Shivaji and his army who after dusk make their appearance with flares that light up the whole countryside around, which echoes to their marching feet.

Bonderam

The feast of Bonderam is celebrated on the island of Divar on the fourth Saturday of August every year. Bonderam revolves around flags.

Frequent disputes which occurred between two wards (section of the village) - Piedade and Sao Mathias - over property matters which often led to bloody duels, and sometimes death. The Portuguese introduced a system of demarcation of boundaries with flags of various nations.

The rival groups, however, knocked down the demarcation flags sometimes with stones. Today, in a parody of the past, this is commemorated with a "Fotash" flight (toy weapon of bamboo stem) and berries are used as missiles in a mock fight between rival groups to knock down an offending flag.

On the day, a carnival ambience is created. Each ward of the village has a float at the parade. Though sponsored by business houses, the floats have an unmistakable local favour.

Music drifts plays even before the crack of dawn on the Saturday. By noon people begin trickling into the village. By evening the trickle is a flood of humanity.

An expectant crowd assembles along either side of the main throughfare of the village. The tempo is set by lads and lasses wielding "fotashes" engaging in mock battles. The gaily coloured floats accompanied by colourfully dressed youngsters make a pretty picture.

Sao Joao

The feast of St John the Baptist on June 24 th is celebrated by young men all over Goa jumping into wells to retrieve gifts thrown in by villagers. This celebration is called Sao Joao, one of the more famous Christian feasts in the state. The Bible speaks of John the Baptist leaping for joy in his mother, Elizabeth’s womb when she was visited by Mary who had just conceived Jesus. San Joao or St John the Baptist baptized Jesus Christ in the River Jordan. The jump into the well is to signify the joy felt by John when he sensed the presence of Jesus Christ even while he was in his mother’s womb.

The festivals takes place at the beginning of monsoon season in Goa and people of all ages jumping into wells, streams and ponds. This generally after getting into the spirit of the thing by imbibing Goa’s famous liquor feni.

San Joao, like any other Goan feast has that captivating spirit of merriment, colour and tradition. In Siolim, the village in north Goa's Bardez taluka, colourful boat races are organised on this day. People dressed in colourful outfits from several villages meet near a stream in carnival-coloured boats and floats. It is akin to the Carnival in few ways.

But San Joao is not celebrated with the same fervour throughout Goa. It is celebrated with less enthusiasm in South Goa. The display of Sangodd, a decorated floating platform, made by tying two boats or banana tree trunks together, which are then put into nearby streams to float is an important part of the celebrations.

On the feast day, villagers begin the day by taking a plunge in the village wells singing ‘San Joao’. The highlight of the day is the Sangodd, on which people parade singing Mandos and religious hymns.

The Sangodds are uniquely decorated and members of that Sangodd wear a uniform dress to distinguish themselves from other groups. This is also a time to celebrate one’s spirit of adventure. So, on this day there are a number of competitions where youths get to exhibit their talents.

The celebration of San Joao in Bardez ( North Goa) goes back nearly 150 years, when San Joao revelers from Chapora and Zhor villages of Anjuna, Badem in Assagao and Siolim would come up year after year in boats to the chapel of Sao Joao in Pereira Vaddo, Siolim, to pay homage.

The young and old alike sing and dance to the beat of the ghumot and kansallem, with lovely coronets of seasonal flowers on their heads and ‘drenched to the bone’ with feni. Many then proceed to jump time and time again into the streams, wells and ponds to keep away the cold from getting them.

Sao Joao still retains its traditional flavour and this organisers say is as a result of their refusal to commercialize the event.

So if you are looking for fun, frolic and a wet-carnival like atmosphere then San Joao is definitely the best place to be on the 24th June.

Goa Heritage Festival at Fontainhas

This festival is a combined effort of the Goa Heritage Action Group, the Corporation of the City of Panaji and the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa. The festival, now in its third year, aims to preserve and promote the Fontainhas area of Goa. Fontainhas is the Latin quarter of Panjim city with pretty Indo-Portuguese homes lovingly cared for the last hundred years or more. The roads are neatly laid out and the area is dominated by the St Sebastian Chapel. The festival is marked by performances by various artists on stages set up in open areas, as well as display of work of art by local artisans who use the pavements and heritage homes as their galleries. The festival in short is not only meant to celebrate the cultural heritage of the state, it inculcates awareness and appreciation of their unique culture in the hearts of Goans and impresses the need to conserve it for the benefit of future generations.

Monte Music Festival

This music festival, started just few years back, celebrates the coming together of western classical along with Indian classical form of music. The venue for the festival is the centuries old newly renovated chapel on the hill at Old Goa. It is organised by the combined efforts of Fundacao Oriente, Cidade de Goa and the Kala Academy at the Capela da Nossa Senhora do Monte (Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount). This chapel perched at the very top of a hill in Old Goa is a must-see place during the festival, where one can enjoy a truly spectacular panoramic view of large areas of North Goa. Performances are usually held for four days and this festival provides a platform to a number of artists local, national and international to display their talents in front of an appreciative audience. There are buses that take you up the steep slope to the venue from the Mahatma Gandhi circle at Old Goa.

Tips for Visitors

Do not keep your valuables unattended during your stay at the beaches
Do not indulge in drug offences, as these are punishable under the law
Nudity on beaches and public places is forbidden and punishable under the law
Follow police traffic rules strictly. Keep your valid documents: driving licence, passport, etc in your possession while driving. Traffic circulation is on the left
Do not keep your money, passport in the custody of undesirable persons
Exchange your money through authorised banks /money changers only and insist on a receipt
While shopping avoid touts and brokers
Shopping is recommended from Government emporiums
Don’t purchase rail/air/bus tickets through strangers or unauthorised travel agents/tour operators but from authorised agencies/counters only
Voltage in Goa is 220 volts AC 50 Cycles
In case of any difficulty contact the nearest Tourist Bureau or Police Station for help
Tourist police are situated at strategic points. Tourists are advised to contact them for any assistance required during the visit
Always hire government approved tourist guides who invariably carry an ID card
Smoking and spitting not allowed in public places
Goa is a plastic free zone. Discourage any use of plastic bags etc
Observe local traditions and customs while visiting religious places

While on the Beach

The sea is quite rough at times with dangerous undercurrents especially during the rainy season
*
The underground sea-floor level may not be even
*
Do not venture into deep waters because in an emergency rescue becomes difficult
*
Do consult the lifeguard on the beach before venturing into the water

Important Telephone Numbers

Help Information - +91-832-2412121
Police - 100 / 91-832-2226482
Fire - 101
Ambulance - 102
GMC - +91-832-2225727
Railway Inquiry - +91-832-2235054
Airport (Dabolim) - +91-832-2512788
Dept of Tourism - +91-832-243750

Health Care Before you Travel............

GOA is essentially a healthy place to live in, with bright sunshine and sea breezes, to clear the collywobbles away. It would be a good idea though to guard against any serious diseases with a proper set of vaccinations.

Since some vaccinations require more than one injection and some others cannot be injected with others, it is advisable to plan your vaccinations in consultation with your doctor well in advance of your trip. These can be then recorded on an International Health Certificate which is to be carried along with you. Entry into India requires yellow fever vaccinations especially when coming from an infected area.

Other suggested vaccinations include the following:

Hepatitis A
Diphtheria & Tetanus
Meningoeoccal Meningitis
Typhoid
Hepatitis B
Polio
Rabies
Japanese B Encephalitis
Tuberculosis
Malaria

Also make sure that you have adequate health insurance before you embark on your trip.

Health Care in Goa

There are pharmacies in all the towns in Goa as also along the beach belt. These are always well-stocked selling drugs manufactured in India under licence from foreign companies.

Medications can usually be bought over the counter. Most good hotels also have a doctor on call to take care of most complaints and prescribe medicines. The staff at your hotel is also usually the best source for the name of the nearest recommended doctor. There are also government and private hospitals in most major tourist areas as also a number of private doctors with clinics.

The main, well equipped hospitals are in the cities of Panaji, Mapusa, Margao and Vasco-da-Gama. There are also a number of ambulance services run by private, government and charitable institutions available on call. However if you are unfortunate to have been involved in an accident, the quickest way to get to hospital is by taxi or private car.

Getting around in Goa

By Road

The Kadamba Transport Corporation runs long distance services throughout the state from their main stands at Panjim, Mapusa and Margao and from locations in the adjoining states of Maharashtra and Karnataka. Private buses, serving everywhere else, including the coastal resorts are affordable, frequent and provide a relaxed mode of commuting.

By Rail

The Konkan Railway makes Goa easily accessible by rail from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Mangalore, Ernakulam, Thiruvanthapuram. Goa is also liked to Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad and Pune via Londa.

By Air

Major hotels have coach services to and from Dabolim Airport, 30 km from the state capital Panaji for picking up and dropping off their guests. The airport has a pre-paid taxi counter. All the major airline services have daily flights to Goa from Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai and pUne and twice a week from Chennai and Kochi. The international service airlines also connect Goa with Kuwait and Sharjah twice a week.

Local Transport

Taxis: For tourists, white taxis serve as the main means of traveling between resorts. One will find them lined up outside most charter hotels, where a board invariably lists the destinations in and around the region. The fixed rate fares only apply to peak season and at other times one should be able to negotiate a hefty reduction from the demanded fare.

Motorcycle Taxis: Goa’s unique pillion-passenger motorcycle taxis known locally as “pilots” are ideal for nipping between beaches or into towns from the resorts. Bona fide operators ride black bikes with yellow mudguards and yellow number plates. Fares which should be settled in advance are almost half the auto-rickshaw rates.

Rented Motorcycles: Renting motorcycles in Goa gives a lot of freedom to tourists. Officially one needs an international driver’s licence to rent or ride anything more powerful than a 25 cc moped. Rates vary according to the season, the vehicle and how long one wants to rent it. Most owners also insist on a deposit and passport as security. The range is pretty standard and the reasonable choice is a 100cc motorbike. These are fine for buzzing to the beach and back, but to travel further the stalwart Enfield ullet 350 cc is popular for tis pose value and its British origins. The smaller Kinetic Honda 100cc which has automatic transmission is a good choice for the novice as well as the all-rounder.

Ferries: If autorickshaws are the quaint, essentially Indian mode of transport, flat-bottomed ferries are their Goan equivalent. Crammed with cars, buses, commuters and scooters, fisherwomen and clumps of bewildered tourists, these blue painted hulks provide an essential service, crossing the coastal backwaters where bridges have not been built. They are also incredibly reasonable and run from dawn till late in the evening.

The most frequented river crossings in Goa are Panjim to Betim, across River Mandovi, Old Goa to Divar Island, Siolim to Chopdem across the Tiracol river and Cavelossim in the far south of Salcete taluka to Assolna.

Weather

Climate ...........

Usually the climatic conditions of Goa are temperate, except during the monsoons, which last from June to September. Thanks to the coastal Konkan region, and the backdrop of the Western Ghats, the weather of Goa is pleasant and sunny.

There are no extremes of temperature and no clear demarcation from one season to the other, except for the monsoons.

The average temperature varies between 23 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius. The average rainfall is approximately 250 cm and the average daily hours of sunshine are 9 to 10 hours in summer and 3 to 5 hours in the monsoons.

Monsoon ..........

The main feature of the Goan climate is the monsoon which occurs between June and the end of September. Goa lies in the path of the South Westerly Monsoon thereby experiencing a dry period lasting 6 to 8 months of the year followed by the annual rainfall which occurs over the remaining four months.

During the two months preceding the onset of the monsoon, the humidity increases dramatically and the normally clear skies become hazy and then cloudy. During the monsoon 200 cm to 250 cm of rain is normal, although in the Western Ghats the downpour is considerably higher than on the coast.

Once the monsoon has run its course the skies clear up and the weather becomes pleasant. For 4 to 5 months from October through February, the climate is near perfect, cloudless blue skies, warm but not oppressively hot days and calm seas. By mid-March the humidity starts to rise as the monsoons begin to approach again.

The Official Website:http://www.goa-tourism.com/index.asp

KULLU AND MANALI - an enchanting snow valley

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 4 Nov 2007 04:03:00 -0800

The most charming and beautiful Kulu valley spreads out its charm on either side of river Beas. The valley runs north to south of this river and is 80kms. long and about 2kms. at its broadest. Yet with awe inspiring glens and mossy meadows encircled by the rushing streams and meandering brooks, flung east & west, a fairly wide area is open to the tourists, the trekkers, the mountaineers, the artists and to anyone who wishes to escape the heat & dust of the plains to breathe the exhilarating air of the Himalaya and enjoy the spectacle of the variegated mountain scenery. The valley is also famous for its exquisitely woven colourful hand made shawls and kullu caps.

KULLU

Kullu was once known as “Kulanthpitha”, which means the end of the habitable world. Beyond rose the forbidding heights of the Greater Himalayas, and by the banks of the shining river Beas, lay the fabled 'Silver Valley' of Kulu. Here is the core of an intricate web of numerous valleys - each of which is a visual delight and seems more beautiful than the other. The Himalayan mountain scapes remain spectacular whether in brilliant sunshine or in the haze of the mist.

The town of Kullu has long been a centre of faith. In the 17th century, Raja Jagat Singh installed here an idol of Lord Raghunathji, which he brought from Ayodhya. As a mark of his penance, he placed the idol on his throne and it became the presiding deity of the Kullu valley.
The town of Kulu is famous for its colourful Dussehra festival. Decorated palanquins and processions convey Gods and Goddesses from temples all over the valley to Kullu, to pay homage to the reigning deity, Raghunathji. A Fair springs up during the festival which is celebrated with a great deal of singing, dancing and festivity.

GENERAL INFORMATION

AREA
5,503 sq.kms.

POPULATION
381,571

ALTITUDE
1230 m (Kullu)

CLIMATE
Pleasant temperature in summer and cold below 0 C with heavy snow fall in winter

VISITING SEASON
March to June for relaxation and visiting the places of sight seeing and enjoy short and long excursions as well as climbing and river rafting

RAINY SEASON
July and August

AUTOMUN
September to November for trekking, climbing, sight seeing and river rafting

WINTER
December to February- snow-skiing and heli-skiing in Manali and above

LANGUAGES
Hindi, Punjabi, Pahari, English are understood and spoken by the people engaged in tourism trade

CLOTHING
Cotton and tropical in summer and heavy woollen in winter

APPROACH

AIR: Kullu is connected by Indian Airlines, Trans Bharat Aviation and Jagson flights with Delhi & Shimla. The airport is at Bhuntar, 10kms. from Kulu.

RAIL: Nearest convenient rail heads are Kalka, Chandigarh and Pathankot on Broad Gauge from where Kullu can be reached by road.

ROAD: Kulu is well connected by road with Delhi, Ambala, Chandigarh, Shimla, Dehradun, Pathankot, Dharamsala & Dalhousie etc. Regular direct buses ply between these stations including deluxe, semi-deluxe and air conditioned buses during tourist season.

LOCAL TRANSPORT: Local buses operate between Kullu-Manali and Manikaran regularly. Taxis are also available.

WHAT TO SEE

BIJLI MAHADEV SHRINE (2460 m): 10kms. from Kulu across the Beas river, Bijli Mahadev temple is one of the striking temples in the temples strewn district. It can be reached by a tough but rewarding climb of 10 kms. trek. From the temple a panoramic view of Kulu & Paravati valleys can be seen. A 60 feet high staff of Bijli Mahadev temple glistens like a silver needle in the sun. in this temple of lightening it is said, the tall staff attracts the divine blessings in the form of lightening. The rest of the story can be heard from the priest, which is un-believable but true.

RAGHUNATHJI TEMPLE: 1 km. from Dhalpur, Raghunathji is the principal deity of the valley.

VAISHNO DEVI TEMPLE: At a distance of 4kms. from Dhalpur, a small cave enshrines an image of Goddess Vaishno Devi.

CAMPING SIGHT RAISON (1433 m): 16kms. away from Kulu, the sight is ideal for spending a quite holiday in solitary splendor and for holding youth camps. There are a large number of orchards in this part of the valley. HPTDC has log cabins for comfortable stay.

KATRAIN (1463 m): The central and the widest part of the valley, Katrain is 20kms. from Kulu on way to Manali. Apple orchards and trout hatchery lend charm and prominence to the place. It is also famous for bee keeping and Govt. trout farm at Patilkulh. Sufficient accommodation is availablein Hotels of HPTDC.

NAGGAR (1760 m): On the left bank of the Beas, Naggar is delightfully situated on a wooded slope and commands an extensive view. It was the capital of erstwhile Kulu state for about 1400 years. There are large number of famous temples notably Vishnu, Tripura Sundari & Lord Krishana. Cars and jeeps easily go upto the Naggar castle. Roerich art gallery which houses the paintings of Nicholas Roerich as well as his sculptures , is less than a km. from the Castle. Naggar is also a base for undertaking treks to Chanderkhani Pass and to remote valley of Malana.

KASOL (1640 m): Situated on the bank of Paravati river, Kasol makes a good holiday destination. 42kms. from Kulu, charmingly located on an open space which slopes down to the broad expanse of clear white sand at the Parvati river. The place is well known for trout fishing.

MANIKARAN (1700 m): Manikaran, 45kms. from Kulu and just 3kms. from Kasol, is famous for its hot springs. Thousands of people take a holy dip in hot waters here. The water is so hot that dal, rice & vegetables etc. can be cooked in it. It is also a well known pilgrimage place for both Hindus & Sikhs. Ramchandra and Shivaji temples besides a Gurudwara are there. According to an old legend, Manikaran is connected with Lord Shiva and his divine consort, Parvati, who lost her ear rings here, which gave birth to hot waters on the bank of Parvati river. Hearing this religious myth from the priests will be more rewarding and interesting. Ample accomodation in the temples and Gurudwara, is available for night stay besides the HPTDC hotel.

MALANA (2652 m): Little ahead of the beautiful Chanderkhani Pass lies the village Malana which is famous for the temple of Jamlu and its distinct, social and cultural life. Malana is considered to be the oldest democracy in the world. It would be worth while to visit this village to study the style and social system prevalent there.

BAJAURA: 15kms. short of Kulu , Bajaura is on the main road where BASHESHWAR MAHADEV temple is situated about 200 m from the village in a plain between the main road and the Beas river. It is believed to have been built in the mid 8th century.

LARJI (957 m): South of Kulu, Larji 34kms. away is a small hamlet providing excellent spot for trout fishing. The PWD rest house is located in a stunning position between the foaming torrents of the river Sainj & Tirthan, before they join the Beas. The place is patronized mostly by anglers.

BANJAR (1524 m): At a distance of 58 kms. south of Kulu, Banjar is an excellent spot for trout fishing in the waters of river Tirthan.

APPROACH

RAIL: Nearest convenient rail head are Chandigarh and Pathankot. Manali can be reached from road from these stations.

ROAD: Manali is well connected by road with Delhi, Ambala, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Haridwar, Shimla, Dharamsala and Chamba/Dalhousie. Regular buses ply between these stations. It is connected with Leh during July to October.

WHAT TO SEE

HADIMBA TEMPLE: Manali has many attractions but the chief centre of interest, historically and archeologically, is undoubtedly the DHOONGRI TEMPLE dedicated to goddess Hadimba, the Bhim of Mahabharat fame. It has four-tiered Pagoda shaped roof and the doorway is carved with legendary figures and symbols. This temple located amidst wooden forest of deodar is about 2.5 kms. from the tourist office. It is a pleasant experience to stroll in the temple complex which was built in 1533 A.D. A large festival is held here in May.

MANU TEMPLE: 3 kms. from the main bazar in old Manali lies the temple of MANU RISHI. It is believed that this is the only temple of Manu in India, who was the creator of human race on the earth.

CLUB HOUSE: 2 kms. from the town, club house has indoor games facilities which has been located on the left bank of Manalsu Nallah. There are some picnic spots near it.

TIBETAN MONASTERIES: There are 3 newly constructed colorful monasteries, where visitors can buy carpets and other Tibetan handicrafts. Two are located in the town and one at Aleo on the left bank of Beas river.

MOUNTAINEERING INSTITUTE: Located 3 kms. on the left bank of river Beas towards Kulu. This Institute organises basic & advance training courses, in trekking, mountaineering, skiing and water sports. Skiing and trekking equipments can be hired from here by booking in advance. Tourists can visit an interesting showroom here.

VASHIST HOT WATER SPRINGS AND TEMPLE (3 Kms): Vashist, a small village located on the left bank of river Beas towards Rohtang pass is worth a visit. It is renowned for its hot springs and temples. Nearby is the pyramidal stone temple dedicated to Vashist Muni. There is another Temple of Lord Ram here. Natural hot sulphur springs with two separate bathing tanks for gents and ladies are always full of tourists. Turkish style showers fitted baths have also been built nearby. Hot water from the nearby spring is provided for bathing.

NEHRU KUND: 5 kms. on National Highway to Leh,a natural spring of cold clear water named after Pt. Jwahar Lal Nehru, who used to drink water from this spring during his stay in Manali. This spring is believed to originate from the Bhrigu lake situated high-up in the mountains.

SOLANG VALLEY: 13 kms. is a splendid valley between Solang village and Beas Kund. Solang valley offers the view of glaciers and snow capped mountains and peaks. It has fine ski slopes. The Mountaineering Institute has installed a ski lift for training purpose. Located here is a hut and guest house of the Mountaineering and Allied sports Institute, Manali. Now a few hotels have also come up. The winter skiing festival is organised here. Training in skiing is imparted at this place.

KOTHI: Situated on the road to Rohtang pass, a picturesque spot, Kothi is 12kms. from Manali. A PWD rest house is situated on a ridge overlooking a narrow valley with a very good view of mountains and valleys. Large number of films (movies) have been picturised at this place and is the ideal resting resorts of poets, writers and the lovers of peaceful environs.

RAHALA WATER FALLS: 16 kms. on way to Rohtang pass. If one goes to Marhi on foot from Kothi from the old road, the sight of the falls is fascinating. It is a good picnic spot as well.

ROHTANG PASS (3979 m):
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Rohtang pass is 51kms. from Manali on highway to Keylong/Leh. It offers a panorama and spectacular mountain view. The pass is open from June to October each year although trekkers can cross it earlier. It is a gateway to Lahaul Spiti, Pangi and Leh valley just as Zojila pass is a gatway to Ladakh. There are a beautiful sight of glaciers, peaks and Chandra river flows down in the Lahaul valley. Slightly to the left are the twin peaks of the Geypan. During summer(mid June to October) regular buses ply between Manali-Keylong/Darcha, Udaipur, Spiti and Leh.

ARJUN GUFA(CAVE): 4kms. from Manali towards Naggar, the cave is situated near Prini village 1km. above the road where Arjun had meditated. This is good 1/2 a day excursion with charming view of the brilliant mountains.

JAGATSUKH: 6 Kms. from Manali located on the left bank on Beas on the road to Naggar. The place is famous for very old temples of Lord Shiva and Sandhya Gayatri in Shikhara style, these are worth a visit.

Adventure Sports in Manali

Manali Mountaineering Institute:
The Mountaineering Institute located at Manali provides training facilities for basic and advance climbing both for Indian nationals and foreigners. This institute also conducts other adventurous sports activities like high altitude trekking, minor mountaineering, rock-climbing, skiing, and high altitude rescue and relief courses. The institute has sufficient lodging and boarding arrangements and equipment can be hired for trekking purposes.

Rafting in Manali:
The Beas river flowing through Kullu valley is suitable for not only white water rafting but is ideal for canoeing and kayaking too. The Beas River from the Manaki to Jhiri near Bajaura in Kullu district has become very popular among the lovers of river rafting and many competitions have been organised in the same. The trip starts from Mohal and covers a total distance 10-kms. The season normally starts from May to mid-June and rest depends on the arrival of monsoon. The various clubs provide the basic equipment required for the water sports.

Skiing in Manali:
Near Manali there are some slopes, which have been rated the best for skiing in the world. The Solang Nullah, Patalsu, Kothi, Marhi and Rohtang slopes are very good for skiing in the winters as well as in summers. In fact Patalsu and Rohtang slopes are the only places where one can do summer skiing. The slopes are being further developed to accommodate more trainees and tourists.
The national level skiing competition is held on the slopes of Solang Nullah and the winter carnival is organised at Manali. The place has immense potential to offer some world-class ski slopes and they are being developed on the same lines. There are private organisations that provide training as well as equipment for skiing. The Mountaineering Institute has put up a small ski lift at Solang Nullah.

Paragliding in Manali:
Paragliding is a combination of hang gliding and parachuting. In parachuting one has to jump from an aircraft whereas in paragliding one has to run down hill. The slopes of Solang Nullah provide just the right kind of slopes for paragliding during summers. There are organisations, which offer packages for paragliding. One can hire equipment from the private organisations in Manali and around.

OFFICIAL WEBSITE:http://www.himachaltourism.nic.in/kulu.htm

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KASHMIR - the paradise on Earth.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 2 Nov 2007 23:02:00 -0700

Set like a jeweled crown on the map of India, Kashmir is a multi-faceted diamond, changing its hues with the seasons - always extravagantly beautiful. Two major Himalayan ranges, the Great Himalayan Range and the Pir Panjal, surround the landscape from the north and south respectively. They are the source of great rivers, which flow down into the valleys, forested with orchards and decorated by lily-laden lakes.

The Mughals aptly called Kashmir ‘Paradise on Earth’ where they journeyed across the hot plains of India, to the valley’s cool environs in summer. Here they laid, with great love and care, Srinagar’s many formal, waterfront gardens, now collectively known as the Mughal Gardens. Anecdotes of four and five centuries ago describe their love for these gardens, and the rivalries that centred around their ownership. They also patronized the development of art & craft among the people of Kashmir, leaving behind a heritage of exquisite artisanship among thes people and making the handicrafts of the land prized gifts all over the world.

Kashmiri Food

Rich and redolent with the flavour of the spices used –cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, saffron, etc. -- Kashmiri food can be the simple meal of a family, or a 36-course wedding banquet called Wazawan. The staple diet of every Kashmiri is rice, the most preferred being the dense, slightly sticky grained Kashmir variety, which is prized in the Valley.

Mutton, chicken or fish are of prime importance in Kashmiri meal and everyday cooking often combines vegetable and meat in the same dish. Mutton and turnips, chicken and spinach, fish and lotus root are also very popular combinations. Pure vegetarian dishes include dum-aloo - roasted potatoes in curd-based gravy, and chaman- fried paneer (cottage cheese), in a thick sauce. Non-vegetarian dishes are considered in Kashmir to be a sign of lavish hospitality and at a Wazwan or banquet, not more than one or two vegetarian dishes are served. Sweets do not play an important role in Kashmiri cuisine. Instead Kahva or green tea is used to wash down a meal.

Wazawan is usually served at weddings and parties. The most commonly served items are rista (meat balls) made of finely pounded mutton and cooked in a gravy; seekh kababs, tabak maz, or flat pieces of meat cut from the ribs and fried till they acquire a crisp crackling texture, roganjosh, which owes its rich red colour to the generous use of Kashmiri chillies. Yakhni, a cream coloured preparation of delicate flavour, is made with curd as a base. Gushtaba, which is the last item to be served in a traditional wazawan, are meatballs moulded from pounded mutton like large-sized Rista but cooked in thick gravy of fresh curd base. Dam-Aaloo and chaman are the commonly served vegetarian dishes - to serve more than this would indicate an unseemly tendency on the part of the host to economize!

Several restaurants in Srinagar serve Kashmiri wazawan on their menus. Mughal Durabar, Ahdoos and Grand, on the Residency Road, offer authentic wazawan. Similarly, Broadway Hotel on Maulana Azad Road arranges wazawan prepared by professionals.

Restaurants

All the better hotels in Srinagar have attached restaurants, generally serving Indian, Continental and Kashmiri cuisine. Other restaurants are mainly located on the Boulevard, Shervani (Residency) Road, Lambert Lane and Lal Chowk.

Mughal Durbar and Ahdoos on Shervani Road, Ruby in Lambert Lane and Juniper in Lal Chowk are well known for their Kashmiri cuisine. Solace and Tao Cafe on Shervani Road and Shamyana on the Boulevard are three known garden cafes. There are also several restaurants offering Chinese cuisines such as J&K TDC’s Nun-Kun Restaurant near Nehru Park, Alka Salka on Shervani Road and Lhasa on the Boulevard. Some restaurants, both attached to hotels and independent, cater to the large number of vegetarians who holiday in Kashmir. These are mainly located in the Dalgate Kohna Khan area and on the Boulevard. Amira Kadal and Dalgate have inexpensive eateries where you can get simple, well cooked meals.

There are a number of bakeries at Dalgate and Shervani Road. Some of them, in addition to patties and pastries, serve Kashmiri breads like 'sheermal' and 'baqerkhani', without which no Kashmiri breakfast is complete. Kashmiris use a variety of breads seldom seen elsewhere.

Tsot and tsochvoru are small round breads, topped with poppy and sesame seeds and traditionally washed down with salt tea. Lavas is a cream coloured unleavened bread; baqerkhani is the Kashmiri equivalent of rough puff pastry and kulcha is a melt-in-the mouth variety of short-bread, sweet or savoury, topped with poppy seeds.

Kashmir is a land where myriad holiday ideas are realised. In winter, when snow carpets the mountains, there is skiing, tobogganing, sledge-riding, etc. along the gentle slopes. In spring and summer, the honey-dewed orchards, rippling lakes and blue skies beckon every soul to sample the many delights the mountains and valleys have to offer. Golfing at 2,700 m above the sea, water-skiing in the lakes and angling for prized rainbow trout, or simply drifting down the willow fringed alleys of lakes in shikaras and living in gorgeous houseboats are some of the most favoured ones.

SEASON

In summer, daisies carpet parks and gardens all over Kashmir

Kashmir has four distinct seasons, each with its own peculiar character and distinctive charm. These are spring, summer, autumn and winter.

Spring, which extends roughly from March to early May, is when a million blossoms carpet the ground. The weather during this time can be gloriously pleasant at 23oC or chilly and windy at 6oC. This is the season when Srinagar experiences rains, but the showers are brief.

Summer extends from May until the end of August. Light woollens may be required to wear out of Srinagar. In higher altitudes night temperatures drop slightly. Srinagar at this time experiences day temperatures of between 25oC and 35oC. At this time, the whole valley is a mosaic of varying shades of green - rice fields, meadows, trees, etc. and Srinagar with its lakes and waterways is a heaven after the scorching heat of the Indian plains.

The onset of autumn, perhaps Kashmir's loveliest season, is towards September, when green turns to gold and then to russet and red. The highest day temperatures in September are around 23oC and night temperatures dip to 10oC by October, and further drop by November, when heavy woollens are essential.
Kashmir Valley in winter

Through December, to the beginning of March is winter time, which presents Srinagar in yet another mood. Bare, snow-covered landscapes being watched from beside the warmth of a fire is a joy that cannot be described to anyone who has not experienced it. Some houseboats and hotels remain open in winter-these are either centrally heated or heated with ‘bukharis’, a typically Kashmiri stove kept alight with embers of wood, quite effective in the winter.

WHERE TO STAY

Houseboats

Many tourists are attracted to Srinagar by the charm of staying on a houseboat, which provides the unique experience of living on the water in a cedar-panelled elegant bedroom, with all the conveniences of a luxury hotel. Srinagar's thousand or so houseboats are moored along sections of the Dal and Nagin Lakes and river Jhelum, each decorated fancifully and named romantically and even whimsically. Like hotels, houseboats vary in degree of luxury and have been accordingly graded by the Department of Tourism. A luxury houseboat, like a luxury hotel has fine furniture, good carpets and modern bathroom fittings, while the ‘D category’ (the lowest category) of houseboats, like low-budget hotels, is spartanly furnished. Like hotels too, houseboats vary widely in their locations. Some overlook the main road, others look out onto lotus gardens and yet others face tiny local markets and villages, all right in the middle of the lake! All houseboats, regardless of category, have highly personalized service. Not only is there always a "houseboy" for every boat, but the owner and his family are never far away. The cost per day of hiring a houseboat includes all meals and free rides from the houseboat to the nearest jetty and back, as no houseboat on the lakes is directly accessible from the banks.

Every standard houseboat provides a balcony in the front, a lounge, dining room, pantry and 3 or more bedrooms with attached bathrooms. All houseboats not moored to the bank of the river or lakes provide a shikara as a free service from the houseboat to the nearest ghat (jetty). Virtually every houseboat in Srinagar has been provided with a municipal water connection.

Category and location of houseboats

The State Tourism Department has classified the houseboats into five categories - Deluxe, A, B, C and D, corresponding more or less to the degree of comfort and service of hotels.
Houseboats in Dal Lake
Houseboats on Dal Lake

There are 1087 registered houseboats in Srinagar of which 702 are anchored in the Dal Lake, 173 in the Nagin Lake, 142 on the River Jhelum, 5 on the Dal Lake near Naseem Bagh, and the rest in other water bodies. Among these, 349 houseboats with a combined capacity of 1007 double rooms are in the Deluxe class and are mainly anchored in Dal Lake, Nageen Lake, and Naseem Bagh. In addition there are 129 A-class houseboats, 124 B-class houseboats, 134 C-class houseboats and 351 D-class houseboats.

ABOUT JAMU & KASHMIR TOURISM

The Department of Tourism, J&K is the main developmental, promotional and regulatory arm of the J&K Government. Its main role comprises of:

* Overall planning and execution of schemes for the development, up-gradation and improvement of the tourism infrastructure in different parts of the State.
* Support to the private sector industry in the form of incentives for setting up various tourist facilities as well as for promotion and marketing of their products and services.
* Promotion and marketing of various tourist destinations and products of the State.
* Regulation of the travel-trade by enforcement of provisions of J&K Registration of Tourist Trade Act.

The Department of Tourism has Tourist Offices in all the tourist resorts of the State. In addition, there are 6 promotional offices outside the State, one each at New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Chennai and Kolkata. Also, there is one provincial Director of Tourism each for Jammu and Kashmir Divisions. The Department also has Engineering Division under its control for the implementation and execution of various schemes for up-gradation and improvement of the basic and tourist infrastructure. For formulating and monitoring the plan schemes, the Department has a Planning Wing headed by an Assistant Director deputed by the State Planning and Development Department. For overall marketing and promotion including production of literature and other promotional tools, undertaking of advertisement campaigns and coordination of various marketing and promotional efforts, the Department has a Publicity Wing headed by the Deputy Director Publicity.

The Department of Tourism is provided with and controls an Annual Plan Budget. A sufficient amount is earmarked and utilized for providing incentives to the private-sector in the form of interest subsidy on loans advanced by various financial institutions for setting up or upgrading various tourism units. In addition, direct financial assistance is also given for conversion of residential houses as paying guest accommodation and for improvement of other facilities in the tourism sector. A sufficient amount is also earmarked for promotion and marketing of various destinations through the print and electronic media, as well as for sponsoring participation of the State's travel-trade delegations in various Travel Marts and Expos within the country and abroad. The Department also conducts Familiarization Tours of leading travel agents, tour operators and travel writers from within the country and abroad to different parts of the State.

The commercial activities in the tourism sector from the Government side are looked after by a public sector corporation know as the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation
(J&K TDC). It operates and manages Government accommodation in Tourist Centres at Srinagar and Jammu, and the Tourist Complexes, Hotels, Tourist Bungalows in various resorts. The Corporation also runs a Travel Division, which organizes package tours to various parts of the State and also arranges transport facilities for the tourists.

Other related organizations of the Tourism Department are the Jammu and Kashmir State Cable Car Corporation (J&K CCC) and the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC). The Cable Car Corporation operates a Gondola Lift at Gulmarg. It is also planning to set up similar facilities as joint ventures in different tourist resorts of the State. The Convention Centre has Conference facilities of International standard, and is connected to a five Star Hotel. An International Golf Course designed by World famous Golf Architect Robert-Trent Jones, Jr. has also come up in its vicinity.

For safeguarding the interests of tourists visiting Jammu and Kashmir, the State has enacted a special legislation titled the " Jammu and Kashmir Registration of Tourist Trade Act, 1978/1982 ". Under this act, all the Tourist Officers posted in different resorts have been vested with special powers as Prescribed Authorities to register and regulate the tourist trade in their respective areas of jurisdiction, and to look into complaints from tourists visiting the State, the Department has an Enforcement Wing headed by a Superintendent of Police on deputation from the Police Department who is designated as Deputy Director Tourism (Enforcement). There is a contingent of Tourist Police on deputation from the Police Department under the administrative control of Deputy Director Tourism ( Enforcement) for assisting him in the disposal of complaints of tourists. The Registration Act also confers compounding powers on the Deputy Director Tourism (Enforcement) enabling him to settle the complaints on the spot. For cases requiring prosecution, written complaint of a tourist is admissible as evidence even if he may have left the State.

Official website: http://www.jktourism.org

By Air

Daily flights operate regular daily flights to Srinagar from Delhi, Mumbai and Jammu. They leave from Delhi directly, from Delhi via Jammu, and from Bombay via New Delhi and Jammu.
Srinagar airport is 14 kms from the city. The taxi ride to the Tourist Reception Centre costs about Rs.250/-. Jammu & Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (J&KSRTC) operates special coach services between the airport and the city.

By Rail

The nearest railhead for Srinagar is Jammu Tawi (305 kms) where trains arrive from Delhi, Calcutta, Pune, Mumbai, Kanyakumari, Ahmedabad, etc. As with flights, train bookings have to be made well in advance. During the holiday season, additional trains operate to and from various parts of the country.

By Road

National Highway 1-A, connecting Srinagar with Jammu, is a good, all-weather road with several sharp inclines and hairpin bends. It is maintained by the Border Roads Organization (BRO), which clears the road of any obstructions resulting from natural causes like landslides and heavy snowfall. The famous Jawahar Tunnel that connects Jammu with the Kashmir Valley across the Pir Panjal range falls en route

Super deluxe, A-class, B-class busses are operated by J&K SRTC as well as other transport agencies. These take approx. 11 hours to cover the journey and the cost per seat in J&K SRTC bus is Rs 150/- for super deluxe, Rs.110/- for A-class and Rs.100/- for B-class coaches
From Delhi an express coach service is available, which takes 26 hours to reach Srinagar at the cost per seat of Rs.750/-. For booking contact J&K SRTC Office, Kanishka Shopping Plaza, Ashok Road, New Delhi.

It is also possible to travel by taxi from Jammu to Srinagar in about 8 hours. The cost is Rs.2100/-(Tata Sumo) & Rs.2400/- car taxi. If you are travelling alone, it is worth enquiring at the taxi stand in the Tourist Reception Centre, Jammu (Tel 2546266) about the availability of taking a shared taxi at an approximate cost of Rs.460/- per head in car taxi Rs. 300/- per head in Tata Sumo.

For those wishing to travel to Srinagar by a private car from Jammu, there are several places en route which have been developed for the convenience of the motorist. Among them Jajjar Kotli, Kud, Pantnitop, Batote, Ramban, Banihal and Qazi Gund, all having tourist bungalows and provisions for meals, snacks, petrol pumps and repairs.

Local Transport

Coaches

The J&K Tourism Development Corporation (J&K TDC) and the J&K Road Transport Corporation (J&K SRTC) operate luxury coaches for tourists. For reservation and bookings contact:

J&K TDC Booking Office, TRC, Tel. Nos. 2457930, 2472644, Fax: 2457927/2476107. J&K SRTC Booking Office, TRC, Tel. No. 2455107
Flower seller on the Dal Lake

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JAISALMER - utter magic and brilliance of desert

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 2 Nov 2007 03:46:00 -0700

nonthing else is like this on this plant and no place would even distantly look like this

Its like straight out of an Arabian Nights fable. The name Jaisalmer induces a dramatic picture of utter magic and brilliance of the desert. The hostile terrain not with standing the warmth and colour of people is simply over whelming. One of the main draws is the daunting 12th century Jaisalmer Fort. The beautiful havelis which were built by wealthy merchants of Jaisalmer are yet another interesting aspect of the desert city. And you can let your eyes caress the sloppy sand dunes while you ramble your way in a camel safari. The desert citadel is truly a golden fantasy in Thar Desert. Bhatti Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal, after whom the city finds its name, founded Jaisalmer in 1156. On advice of a local hermit Eesaal he chose the Tricut Hills as his new abode abandoning his vulnerable old fort at Luderwa just 16 kilometres northwest. In Medieval times, its prosperity was due to its location on the main trade route linking India to Egypt, Arabia, Persia, Africa and the West. The Bhatti Rajput rulers lined their coffer with gains from traditional taxes on passing by caravans and sometimes through illicit gains by rustling cattle.

Over the years the remote location of Jaisalmer kept it almost untouched by outside influences. In the 13th century Ala-ud-din Khilji Emperor of Delhi besieged the fort for nine years in an effort to take back the treasure taken by the Bhatti Rajput from his imperial caravan train. When the fall of the fort was imminent the women of the fort committed Jauhar, an act of mass self-immolation, while men donned saffron robes and rode to their certain death. Duda son of Jaitasimha, a Bhatti hero also perished in the battle. Dudas descendants continued to rule Jaisalmer. In 1541 they even fought Mughal Emperor Himayun. Though their relations with Mugshal was not always hostile. Sabala Simha won the patronage of Mughal Emperor Shaha Jahan for battle distinctions in Peshawar and the right to rule Jaisalmer. In the days of Raj, Jaisalmer was the last to sign the Instrument of Agreement with the British.

Ages have gone by and the monuments of Jaisalmer have withstood the buffeting winds of the desert all through. Jaisalmer is a marvel of beautiful culture and harsh climatic conditions, together amounting to a memorable experience. The old city was completely encircled by wall but much of it is now pulled down sadly for want of building material in recent years. The massive golden fort, which is the essence of Jaisalmer, is entered through First Gate. Is a burrow of narrow streets complete with Jain Temples and old palaces. The main market the Bhatia Market is right below the hill. The bank, offices and several shops are also located near the Amar Sagar Gate to the west.

Forts & Monuments

JAISALMER FORT:- Known as SONAR QUILA or the Golden fort, rising from the sand , the mega structure merges with the golden hues of the desert ambience and the setting suns in its most colourful shades gives it a fairy tale look. Its simply a magic, the bastions envelops a whole townships that consist of palace complex various security sources and the havelis of rich merchants carved with an incredibly light touch, several temples and the residential complexes of the armies and traders placed strategically on the trade route, from where the ancient caravans passed en-route passing all the riches for the prosperity to an otherwise non source full kingdom. These merchants served and acquire a great deal of power and noble status in the royal courts of Bhatti Rajputs who founded the state in the 12th century and proceeded further. But the rich merchant inspired by the classic style of the royals , constructed huge mansions (havelis) adjacent to each other in the nature of medieval culture and profusely decorated walls and ceilings and intricately carved outdoors and interiors. The colourful art forms and some how side kind the royal heritage and made it appear more pale in comparison . The craftsmen were usually muslims who were induced on their journey to exhibit their skills. The results was architectural purity that cannot be seen elsewhere.

Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli:-Two architect brothers built it in the 19th century. Interestingly, while one concentrated on the right, the other concentrated on the left and the result is a symphony epitomising the side by side symmetry during construction. Paintings in miniature style monopolise the walls in the interior. Mighty tuskers carved out of yellow sandstone stand guard to the haveli.

Salim Singh Ki Haveli:- This haveli was built about 300 years ago and a part of it is still occupied. Salim Singh was the prime minister when Jaisalmer was the capital of the princely state and his mansion has a beautifully arched roof with superb carved brackets in the form of Peacocks. The mansion is just below the hill and it is said that once it had two additional wooden storeys in an attempt to make it as high as the maharaja's palace, but the maharaja had the upper storey torn down.

Patwon-Ji-Ki-Haveli:-This is one of the largest and most elaborate Haveli in Jaisalmer and stands in a narrow lane. It is five storeys high and is extensively carved. It is divided into six apartments, two owned by archaeological Survey of India, two by families who operate craft-shops and two private homes. There are remnants of paintings on some of the inside walls as well as some mirror work.

TaziaTower:- The delicate pagoda like Tazia Tower rises from Badal Mahal (Cloud Palace). Rising in its five-tiered splendour, with each storey graced by a delicately carved balcony, the tower is of historical significance. Muslim craftsmen built it in the shape of a Tazia and gifted it to their royal patron.

Park
Desert National Park
Akal Wood Fossil Park

Lakes
Gadsisar Lake

Festivals
Desert Festival

Near Jaisalmer
Sand Dunes
Pokran
Barmer
Bada Bag
Baisakhi
Ram-Kunda
Luderwa
Amar-Sagar
Mool-Sagar
Kuldhara & Khabha

Climate : Hot & Dry
Temperature Summer Max. 41.6 Dc. Mini 25Dc.
Winter Max. 23.6 Dc Mini 7.9 Dc.
Ave. Rain 15CM per year

HOW TO REACH OR ACCESS JAISALMER:

1) BY AIR : Nearest Airport in Jodhpur 300km. From Jaisalmer.
2) BY TRAIN: Direct Trains available from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur & Delhi via Jodhpur-Jaipur-Alwar
Tel-Rly-. Station - 02992-252354/251301
3)Road : Deluxe & Ordinary buses of Rajasthan Roadways & Private companies operate form Jaisalmer to Jodhpur, Jaipur, Bikaner , Barmer , Mount Abu , Jalore , Ahemdabad etc, Roadways main bus stand opp. Rly station & Golden bus ternimal near State Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur, Shiv road, Jaisalmer

Tel-02992-251541 Private bus stand at Air Force Circle.

LOCAL TRANSPORT:- General transportation in Jaisalmer are Auto rickshaw and bicycles because these are the good ways to get around.

LOCAL SHOPPING:- aisalmer is famous for embroidery, rajasthani mirror work, rugs, blankets, antiques and old stone work. Tie-dye and other fabrics are made at the Kahdi Gramudyog Bhavan.

HOTELS: There are no.of hotel, both STAR hotels and standard hotels, Dharmasalas and
even PAYING GUEST ACCOMMODATION.

For more details contact
Tourist Reception Center, Jaisalmer
Tel-02992-252406 Helpline-1364

JAIPUR - The Pink City

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 2 Nov 2007 03:19:00 -0700

JAIPUR is a very famous tourist attraction in India. A visitor to India must visit this place also.

Jaipur is 260 km from Delhi and 240 km from Agra andjaipur, pink city, capital city of state Rajasthan, hawa mahal ... forms the most chosen tourism golden triangle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. It a bustling capital city and a business centre with all the trapping of modern metropolis but yet flavoured strongly with an age-old charm that never fails to surprise a traveller. The old Jaipur painted in Pink can grip any visitor with admiration. Stunning backdrop of ancient forts Nahargarh, Amer, Jagarh and Moti Dungri are dramatic testimonials of the bygone era and a reminder of their lingering romance.

The picturesque capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is color washed pink-the color associated with hospitality in Rajput culture. Built in 1727 A.D. by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh JI, Jaipur displays a remarkable harmony and architectural splendor.Jaipur is named after its founder the warrior and astronomer sovereign Sawai Jai Singh II (ruled 1688 to 1744). The decision to move out of his hilltop capital Amer was also compelled by reasons of growing population and paucity of water. Moreover in the early seventh century the power of the great Mughals was dwindling with its aging Monarch Aurangzeb and after several centuries of invasions the north was now quite and the wealth of the kingdom had become greater than before. Seizing upon this opportune time Jai Singh planned his new capital in the planes. Jaipur is a corroborative effort of Sawai Jai Singh's strong grounding in sciences and astrology and a Bengali architect Vidyadhar with a strong instinct for planning The ancient heart of the Pink City still beats in its fairy-tale palaces, rugged fortresses perched on barren hills and broad avenues that dot the entire city. The only planned city of its time, Jaipur is encircled by a formidable wall.

A young Bengali architect, Vidyadhar Bhattacharya formalised the city’s plans in a grid system. The wide straight avenues. Roads, streets, lanes and uniform rows of shops on either side of main bazaars were arranged in nine rectangular city sectors (Chokris), in accordance with the principles of town planning set down in the ‘Shilpa Shastra’- and epochal treatise on the Hindu architecture.

There is a timeless appeal to Jaipur’s colorful bazaars where one can shop for Rajasthani handlooms and trinkets. Beautifully laid out gardens and parks, attractive mo
numents and marvelous heritage hotels, once the residence of Maharaja’s are worth admiration. Not to mention the ambling camels and cheerful people in multi-hued costumes that make your trip to the pink city a memorable one.

PRIME SITES

The City Palace: In the heart of the old city is former royal residence built in a blend of the Rajasthani and Mughal styles. The carved arches are supported by grey-white marble columns ornate with floral motifs in gold and colored stones. Two carved elephants in marble guard the entrance. The retainers whose families have served generations of rulers serve as guides.

The palace houses a museum with a superb collection of Rajasthani costumes and armory of Mughals and Rajputs including swords of different shapes and sizes with chased handles, some of them inlaid with enamel and embellished with jewels and encased in magnificent scabbards.

The palace also has an art gallery with an excellent collection of miniature paintings, carpets, royal paraphernalia and rare astronomical works in Arabic,Persian,Latin and Sanskrit, acquired by Sawai Jai Singh II to study astronomy in detail.

Jantar Mantar: A stone observatory. Largest of Jai Singh’s five remarkable observatories. Its complex instruments,whose setting and shapes are scientifically designed, represent the high points of medieval Indian astronomy.The most striking of these are the Ram Yantras used for gauging altitudes.

Hawa Mahal: Built in 1799 A.D. the Hawa Mahal or Palace of Winds is a major Rajput landmark. This five storey building along the main street of the old city is in pink splendor with semioctagonal and delicately honey combed sandstone windows.

The monument was originally conceived with the aim of enabling ladies of the royal household to watch the everyday life and royal processions of the city.

Govind Devji Temple: The most popular spireless temple of Jaipur dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is located in the central pavilion of the Jai Niwas Garden to the north of Chandra Mahal. The image of the patron deity-Govind Devji,originally installed in a temple of Vrindavan, was reinstalled here by Sawai Jai Singh II as his family deity.

Swargasuli (Isar Lat): The highest tower dominating the skyline of the western side of the Tripolia Bazaar. It was built by Sawai Ishwari Singh in 1749 A.D. to commemorate a grand victory.

Ram Niwas Bagh: A lush spacious garden with a zoo, an aviary, a greenhouse, a herbarlum , a museum and popular sport ground. It was built by Sawai Ram Singh II in the 1868 A.D. as a famine relief project. The Albert Hall-fine example of Indo Sarcenic style of architecture designed by Sir Swinton Jacob, was opened later with an exquisite collection of sculptures, paintings, decorative wares, natural history specimen, and Egyptian mummy and the celebrated Persian carpet.

Recently, the Rabindra Manch with an auditorium, a modern art gallery and an open air theatre, has been added to promote cultural events.

Dolls Museum (Time 12.00 hrs to 19.00 hrs.): Pretty dolls from various countries are on display in the compound of the school for deaf and dumb children,near the Police Memorial.

BM Birla Planetarium (Time 12.00 hrs to 19.00 hrs.): The Planetarium offers unique audio-visual education and entertainment with its modern computerized projection system. For school groups concessions are available. Closed on last Wednesday of every month.

Galtaji: An ancient pilgrimage centre, lying beyond the gardens amidst low hills.Temples ,pavilions and holy kunds (natural spring and reservoirs) along with lush landscape make it a delightful spot. The small temple of the Sun god, built by Diwan Kriparam on the top of the highest peak is visible from all parts of the city.

Jain Temple: The exquisite jain temple on the Agra road has some of the most beautiful 19th century paintings in Jaipur style on its walls.

Moti Doongari and Lakshmi Narayan Temple: Moti Doongari is a privately owned hilltop fort built like a scottish castle. The Ganesh Temple at the foot of the hill and the marvellous Lakshmi Narayan Temple built in marbles a few years back,are also noteworthy.

Statue Circle: The full-length exquisitely carve statue of Swai Jai Singh in white marble in the centre of the circle was erected under the newly planned scheme area to pay homage to the founder of Jaipur.

OTHERS: Beautiful memorials to the queens,Maharani-ki-chattri are near the Ramgarh road crossing on the Amber Raod. The Island Palace,Jal Mahal built by Sawai Jai SinghI, is a fascinating spot at the centre of the Man Sagar Lake.

The Kanak Vrindavan: Complex of fine temples and gardens has been recently renovated to their pristine perfection. To the west of this road is the royal crematorium at Gaitore in a narrow valley with some spectacular cenotaphs of all the Jaipur rulers except Swai Ishwari Singh who was cremated outside the Jai Niwas Garden. Most imposing is the ‘chattri’ of Sawai Jai Singh II with the intricate carvings and a graceful shape.

Ghat ki Guni: Beautifully landscaped gardens, laid out in the 18th and 19th century by king and courtiers dot the narrow gorge in the south eastern corner of the walled city, along the road to Agra.

jai5.jpg (16562 bytes)Sisodia Rani Garden has tiered multilevel gardens with fountains, water channel and painted pavilions and suites of living rooms.

Amongst others, Vidhyadhar-ka-Bagh is the best preserved one, with shady trees, flowing water, an open pavilion. It was built by the planner of the city,Vidhyadhar.

Amer: Former capital of the Kachhwaha rulers of the old state of Dhundhar for seven centuries. Very little of the early structures survive now.

Amer Palace and Shila Mata Temple: A beautiful complex of palaces, halls,pavilions,gardens and temples built by Raja Man Singh,Mirza Raja Jai Singh and Sawai Jai Singh over a period of about two centuries still stand in magnificent state. The palace complex emerges dramatically from the placid waters of the Maotha Lake and is approachable only through a steep path. Tourists often ride on the elephant bak to the Singh pol and th Jaleb Chowk. Two flights of stairs rise from on end of the chowk, one leading to the Shila Mata Temple and other to the palace complex. The image of the patron of goddess,worshipped by thousands of deovtees, was brought from Jessore in East Bengal (now in Bangladesh) by Raja Man Singh, to be installed here.
A spectacular pillared hall -Diwan-e-Aam and a double storeyed painted gateway. Ganesh Pole dominate the from courtyard, An elegant tiny garden in Charbagh style beyond th corridors, has Sukh Niws to its right and Jas Mandir to its justify. The latter combines the Mughal and Rajput architecture seen in its beautiful interior with intricately carved Jali screens,delicate mirror and stucco work and painted and carved dadoes. The well proportioned Mohan Bari or Kesar Kyari in the centre of the Maotha Lake and the Dilaram Bagh at its north end provides a spectacular view of the palaces above.

Old City: Once a settlement of nobles,craftsmen and common folks, the city of Amer is now in ruins. The remanants of its rich past are the beautifully carved and planned Jagat Shiromani Temple, a Krishna temple associated with Meerabai, an ancient temple of Narsinghji and a magnificent step-well,Panna Mian-ka-kund.

Jaigarh: One of the few military structures of medieval India, retaining its ancient splendour in palaces,gardens , reservoirs, a granary, an armoury, a well planned cannon foundary, several temples, a tall tower and a giant mounted cannon-the Jai Ban,one of the largest in the country are preserved here. The extensive parkotas (wallls), watch tower and gateways of Jaigarh dominate the western skyline.

Nahargarh: A sentinerl to the Pink City is Nahargarh Fort, situtated beyond the hills of Jaigarh. Although much of it is in ruins, the lvoerly building added by Sawai Ram Singh II and Sawai Madho Singh II provides interest to the fort.

EXCURSIONS

Sanganer (12 km): Located on the Tonk road,. In addition to its ruined palaces, Sanganer has exquisitely carved Jain temples. The town is entered through the ruins of two tripolias (Triple gateways) The town is an important centre for crafts industry and produces some of the finest hand printed textiles from units of block and screen printers. This textile is popular all over the country and abroad.

Bagru (35 km) : On the Ajmer Raod, the ground level fort is still in good shape. It is noted for its hand printed handloom industry using simple techniques. The designs of these handloom are less complicated and are in earth hues.

Ramgarh Lake (32 km. North east): A huge artificial lake created by constructing a high bund amidst tree covered hills. White the temple of Jamwa Mata and the ruins of the old fort are some of its antiquities, its beautiful landscape,especially during monsoons,makes it an idyllic picnic spot.

Samod (40 km, north west): The beautiful Samode Palace, has been rebuilt and renovated and provides a fine example of the Rajput haveli architecture and is an ideal spot for outings.

Bairath (86 km on the Shahpura-Alwar Road): An important historical place with the excavated remains of a circular Buddhist temple-unique in Rajasthan and the earliest known temple in India. Bairath also has relics of the Mauryan,Mughal and Rajput periods.
A mint constructed by Akbar, a beautiful Mughal garden and a remarkable monument with painted chhatris and walls built by Jahangir are other attractions.

Abhaneri (128 km north east off the Agra road near Bandikui): A famous 7th -8th century A.D. temple of Harshad Mata and the step-well known as Chanda Baodi are of interest. Two jain temples are also present, which were built at a later period.

Sambhar (94 km.west): The largest inland salt lake of India known for the holy Devayani Tank, the palace and the Naliasar nearby.

Jaisinghpura Khor (12 km off the Amer Raod): One of the settlement of the Meena tribe, it has a formidable fort, a jain temple and a step-well amid lush surroundings.

Madhogarh-Tunga (40 km. On the Bassi-Lalsot Agra Road): Tunga was witness to a historic battle fought between the Jaipur forces and Marathas. The fort is nestled amidst beautiful mango orchards.

GETTING TO JAIPUR - Jaipur is 262 kms from Delhi and is well connected by road, rail and air. A big fleet of deluxe and air conditioned buses is operated by the Rajasthan Roadways between Delhi and Jaipur. A special luxury train, the Palace on Wheels starts from Delhi on a round trip of Rajasthan.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Area :Jaipur City (Municipal limits 64.75 sq. km. ,Pink City 9.8 sq. km.)
Altitude : 431 metres
Climate : Mean Max. Mean Min.
Summer : 45.0 degree C 25.8 degree C
Winter : 22.0 degree C 8.3 degree C
Best Season : Spetember- March
Clothing : Summer light tropical
Winter: light woollen
Languages : English, Hindi, Rajasthani.

MEDICAL VISA FOR TREATMENT IN INDIA

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 2 Nov 2007 00:22:00 -0700

The Government of India has introduced Medical Visa for foreign nationals seeking Medical treatment in India. Exceprts are produced below:

Chapter 3A
Medical Visa
42A: Conditions
A medical category visa may be issued with the following conditions:
a. The Indian Missions/Posts abroad may scrutinize the medical documents very
carefully and satisfy themselves about the bonafide purpose for which medical
treatment visa is being requested.
b. Mission may satisfy that the applicant has sought preliminary medical advice
from his country of origin/country of residence and he has been advised to go
for specialized medical treatment.
In case the foreign national desires to go for treatment under the Indian system of Medicines, his case may also be considered.
c. This type of visa should be granted for seeking medical attendance only in
reputed / recognized specialized hospitals/ treatment centers in the country.
Although non exhaustive, following illustrative list of ailments would be of
primary consideration; serious ailments like neuro-surgery; ophthalmic disorders;
heart related problems; reneal disorders; organ transplantations; plastic surgery;
joint replacement etc.. The basic idea would be that the mission may satisfy about
the need of the foreign national to come to India for medical treatment/ health
enhancements.
42B Validity of visa and extension of visa
The initial period for such a visa may be upto a period of one year or the period of
treatment whichever less, which can be extended for a further period upto one year be
the State Government/ FRROs on the production of medical certificate/ advice from the
reputed/ recognized/ specialized hospitals in the country. Any further extension will be
granted by the Ministry of Home Affairs only on the recommendations of the State
Gov ernment/ FRROs supported by appropriate Medical documents. Such visa will be
valid for maximum three entries during one year.
State Government/ FRROs may permit one additional entry in emergent situation if
required.

42C Registration

Foreigners coming on ‘M visa’ will be required to get themselves registered mandatorily well within the period of 14 days of arrival with the concerned FRROs/ FROs

42D Visa to attendant/ family members
Attendant/family members of the patient coming to India for medical treatment shall be
granted miscellaneous visa co-terminus with the ‘M Visa’ of the patient. Such visa may
be granted the spouse/ children or those who have blood relations with the patient.
However, not more than two attendants may be allowed at a time for grant of
miscellaneous visa. Such visa will be called ‘MX visa’. Such foreigners are also required
to get themselves registered with the local FRROs/ FROs well within 14 days from the
date of arrival.

42E Registration for Pak and Bangladeshi National

It may be clarified that ‘ Medical Visa’ will be available to all the foreign nationals including China, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka. However Registration formalities for Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals will be as per the provisions contained in para 106 in respect of Bangladeshi national and para 118 of the visa manual in respect of Pakistani nationals. Similarly entry and departure of these foreign nationals will also be governed as per the existing policy in respect of these nationals.

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TIPS FOR TRAVEL IN INDIA

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 2 Nov 2007 00:04:00 -0700

The following tips are advised in the site of www.incredibleindia.org, a site owned by Govt of India,Ministry of Tourism.

CLOTHING

Travel as light as possible. Clothing and laundry are both quite inexpensive.

Its better for women to avoid tank tops or short skirts / shorts. The best outfit, especially during the hot summers, is a T-shirt worn with loose cotton trousers. You can purchase them anywhere in India, at very reasonable rates, at any of the shops. Adventurous ladies can try wearing the Indian 'salwar-kameez'. It is comfortable and free sized.

SOCIAL INTERACTION

If you give the impression of being from a different country, chances are that you might be stared at, especially in the smaller towns. Don't be offended - they mean no harm, it is just curiosity.

Toilets : In India, public toilet facilities are few and far between. Take every opportunity you
   can to use a clean toilet in places such as hotels and restaurants. Make this a habit
                     wherever you go.

Beggars: Do not let them hassle you, and do not encourage them by giving them money.

Food And Drink :Drink only bottled water. Many popular brands are available. In
                        restaurants insist that they bring a sealed bottle to your table
                        Beef is not served in many parts of India. Pork is also not easily available.
                        Eat non-vegetarian food only in good restaurants. The meat in cheaper and smaller
                        places can be of dubious quality.
                        Good quality vegetarian food is easily available.
                        Curd or yoghurt is served with most meals. It is a natural aid to digestion and helps
                        temper the spicy food.

Shopping:

Try to shop only in government handicraft shops. There the prices are fixed and the quality is certified. If that is not an option, check the prices at a few shops before making a choice. Bargaining is standard in most places and is enjoyed by all.

Get used to the fact that you will probably be charged more than the locals. If possible, take a local along when you go shopping.

Tipping :

In hotels and restaurants, tips are not normally included in the bill.

Some hotels include service charges on their bills. In such cases tipping is not necessary.

The standard tip is 10%.

In hotels, porters and room service attendants are normally tipped at the end of the stay, though an early tip is likely to get you better service.

Tipping of taxi drivers is not customary.

Sightseeing

Dress codes for religious places can include covering your head, being barefoot etc. Ask, so that you don't unwittingly give offence.

Some temples do not permit any leather articles at all on their premises.

Certain temples are not open to Non-Hindus. Please check with the local tourist information office.

Most museums in India are closed on Mondays and Site Museums, those near archaeological monuments, on Fridays.

The dry summer heat can drain you completely. Drink lots of water and fluids.

The sun is strong. Remember to use sunscreen on exposed parts of the body. Wear sunglasses to screen out harmful rays.

Photography is not always permissible, and at many places it is permitted only at a fee. There is usually a higher fee for using a video camera.

Smoking is not allowed at public places. All properties of the Indian Railways including trains and railway stations are strictly non smoking zones with stiff penalties for violations.

English is spoken at almost all tourist centers, but you can also request Government-trained and approved guides who also speak German, French, Spanish, Japanese, Italian or Russian.

Health Precautions :

Always drink bottled water.

For the first few days it might be advisable to clean your teeth in bottled water.

Eat fruit you can peel.

Always wash fruit well before eating it.

Wash your hands before and after eating.

Always keep a tube of mosquito repellent with you.

Always carry a kit of the basic emergency medicines you might need for diarrhoea, fever, etc. Also, band aids and an antiseptic ointment.

If you do catch a bug, do not panic. It will go away in a few days - but try the following tips to keep it down:

Drink lassi - a yoghurt drink. It will help tone down the bacteria.

Eat plain rice, or try a simple khichdi - an easily digestible mixture of rice and lentils.

Drink plenty of coconut water. It's cooling, and naturally sterilized!

Drink plenty of fluids and take some electrolyte salts if the bug persists.

Time

Everything in India takes time - longer than in most places. So always give yourself extra time for whatever you may have to do - even it is just a visit to the Post Office or changing money.

Indians joke about the concept of "Indian Stretchable Time" (IST). Certainly, if you're a super-punctual sort, India can be frustrating. Make allowances for this.

Others

Keep extra photocopies of the relevant pages of your passport. This will be required for Indian permits. Also, keep extra photographs of yourselves. These will be required for permits, filling out forms,etc.

Taxi and auto-rickshaw fares keep changing, and therefore do not always conform to readings on meters. Insist on seeing the latest rate card (available with the driver) and pay accordingly.

Insist on the taxi/auto meter being flagged down in your presence. As much as possible, especially from the airport or railroad station insist on using the pre paid services which are available at most important places.

In cities you can change most major foreign currencies and brands of travellers' cheques - but you'll widen your options and save yourself hassles if you stick to US dollars or pounds sterling, and either Thomas Cook or American Express travellers cheques.

Most big cities have ATMs which accept both Visa and Mastercard as well as American Express. The ATM network is ever expanding and in some states, you can find them even in some smaller towns.

VISIT INCREDIBLE INDIA !

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 1 Nov 2007 23:45:00 -0700

The Government of India has started a website relating travel in India. The details of the website are as follows:

The Ministry of Tourism is the nodal agency for the development and promotion of Tourism in India.

1)Formulating national policies and programmes

2)Co-ordinating and supplementing the efforts and activities of various Central Government Agencies, State /Union Territories Governments

3)Catalysing private investments

4)Strengthening promotional and marketing efforts

5)Providing trained manpower resources

6)Developing infrastructure

7)Conducting research and analysis

The Ministry of Tourism is headed by the Minister of State for Tourism (Independent Charge).

The administrative head of the Ministry of Tourism is the Secretary (Tourism). The Secretary also acts as the Director General (DG) Tourism.

The office of the Director General of Tourism {now merged with the office of Secretary (Tourism)} provides executive directions for the implementation of various policies and programmes. The Directorate General of Tourism has a network of 20 offices within the country and 13 offices abroad. The overseas offices are primarily responsible for tourism promotion and marketing in their respective areas and the field offices in India are responsible for providing information service to tourists and monitoring the progress of field projects.

The Ministry of Tourism also controls a public sector undertaking, the India Tourism Development Corporation Ltd, and the following autonomous institutions:

Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM)

National Council for Hotel Management and Catering Technology (NCHMCT) and the Institutes under its control

National Institute of Water Sports (NIWS)

Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering (IISM)

Ministry of Tourism,
Transport Bhavan, Parliament Street,
New Delhi 110 001,
Tel: 91 +011 +23711995. Fax: 91 +011 +23710518.
Email: contactus@incredibleindia.org ,
URL : http://www.incredibleindia.org

RIGHT TO EMERGENCY CARE

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 02:29:00 -0700

Right to Emergency Care:
>
> Date Of Judgement: 23/02/2007.
> Case No.: Appeal (civil) 919 of 2007.
>
> The Supreme Court OF INDIA has ruled that all injured persons
> especially in the case of road traffic accidents,
> assaults, etc., when brought to a
> hospital / medical centre, have to be offered first
> aid, stabilized and
> shifted to a higher centre / government center if
> required. It is only
> after this that the hospital can demand payment or
> complete police
> formalities. In case you are a bystander and wish to
> help someone in an accident, please go ahead and do
> so. Your responsibility ends as soon as you leave
> the person at the hospital.
>
> The hospital bears the responsibility of informing
> the police, first
> aid, etc.
>
> Please do inform your family and friends about these
> basic rights so
> that we all know what to expect and what to do in
> the hour of need.
> Please not only go ahead and forward, use it too!!!!

TAJ MAHAL - you must visit once in your life time with your lover

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 02:34:00 -0700

TAJ MAHAL is once of the 7 wonders of the world. It is a symbol of love and effection between two lovers or you can say spouses. People from all over the world visits this monument and fell enchanted by its beauty and wonder.

The Taj Mahal is considered as the finest example of Mughal architecture, a style that combines elements from Persian, Turkish, Indian, and Islamic architectural styles. In 1983, Taj Mahal became a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was cited as "the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage

In 1631, Shah Jahan, emperor during Mughal's period of greatest prosperity, was griefstricken when his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, died during the birth of their fourteenth child, Gauhara Begum.The court chronicles of Shah Jahan's grief illustrates the love story traditionally held as an inspiration for Taj Mahal.The construction of Taj Mahal begun soon after Mumtaz's death with the principal mausoleum completed in 1648. The surrounding buildings and garden were finished five years later.

The Taj Mahal incorporates and expands on design traditions of Persian and earlier Mughal architecture. Specific inspiration came from successful Timurid and Mughal buildings including the Gur-e Amir (the tomb of Timur, progenitor of the Mughal dynasty, in Samarkand),Humayun's Tomb, Itmad-Ud-Daulah's Tomb (sometimes called the Baby Taj), and Shah Jahan's own Jama Masjid in Delhi. While earlier Mughal buildings were primarily constructed of red sandstone, Shah Jahan promoted use of white marble inlaid with semi-precious stones and buildings under his patronage reached new levels of refinemen

Soon after Taj Mahal's completion, Shah Jahan was deposed and put under house arrest at nearby Agra Fort by his son Aurangzeb. Legend has it that he spent the remainder of his days gazing at the Taj Mahal. Upon Shah Jahan's death, Aurangzeb buried him in the Taj Mahal next to his wife. By late 19th century, parts of Taj Mahal had fallen badly into disrepair.

During the time of Indian rebellion of 1857, Taj Mahal faced defacement by British soldiers and government officials, who chiseled out precious stones and lapis lazuli from its walls. At the end of 19th century British viceroy Lord Curzon ordered a massive restoration project, completed in 1908. He also commissioned the large lamp in interior chamber, modelled based on one in a Cairo mosque. It was during this time the garden was remodelled with British looking lawns that are visible today.

In 1942, the government erected a scaffolding in anticipation of an air attack by German Luftwaffe and later by Japanese Air Force. During the India-Pakistan wars of 1965 and 1971, scaffoldings were erected to mislead bomber pilots. Its recent threats came from environmental pollution on the banks of Yamuna River including acid rain due to Mathura oil refinery, which was opposed by Supreme Court of India directives. In 1983, Taj Mahal was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Taj Mahal attracts 2 to 3 million visitors every year with more than 200,000 from overseas, making it the most popular tourist attraction in India. Most tourists visit during the cooler months of October, November and February. Polluting traffic is not allowed near the complex and tourist must either walk from the carparks or catch an electric bus. The Khawasspuras are currently being restored for use as a new visitors centre. The small town to the South of the Taj known as Taj Ganji or Mumtazabad was originally constructed with caravanserais, bazaars and markets to serve the needs of visitors and workmen.Lists of recommended travel destinations often feature Taj Mahal, which also appears in several listings of seven wonders of the modern world, including the recently announced New Seven Wonders of the World, a recent poll with 100 million

Got To Get Away: Stretch Your Vacation Dollars

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 05:34:00 -0700

Author: Joseph Kenny

With the dollar receiving an old fashioned beating from the euro right now, vacations to popular European destinations like England, France and Spain have become quite pricey. Not to fret though, with a little planning, you can still enjoy your European vacation without breaking the bank.

Not flying across the pond for some R&R? You can still save cash by traveling smart, regardless of your vacation destination. Read on, oh wandering soul.

Prevent your wallet from getting euro-trashed

If you’re heading to Europe, prepare yourself financially. While Paris and London are must-sees for the vacationing Yankee, they can put a hurting on your billfold. Vacations in Western Europe today cost 35 to 40 percent more than they did as little as two years ago. Why? It’s all about the exchange rate. The euro rules the day over our weakened dollar, meaning you’ll have to pick and choose your spots when it comes to traveling abroad.

Before you book, research your options. Purchasing a vacation package (airfare & hotel) through an online travel broker like expedia.com or travelocity.com could save you big bucks. If you’re planning on staying long-term in one place, look into renting a house or apartment. It’s cheaper than a hotel room, sleeps more, is roomier, and you’ll be able to cook your own food instead of eating out every day. Also, many vacation packages will allow you to “lock in” a rate well before your travel dates. If the dollar continues to fall against the euro after you book, you’ll save big and look like a genius. If the dollar rallies, however, you lose.

Remember, Europe is more than just England and France. Consider visiting some of the Eastern Block countries like Hungary, Poland or Lithuania—you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Gone are the Cold War misconceptions of these countries. Instead, travelers will encounter friendly natives, stunning views, and vibrant nightlife. What’s more, these countries have yet to adopt the euro, meaning your dollar will go a lot farther.

But if it’s Western Europe or bust for you, you can still ease the pain that the mighty euro brings. Book your trip early to ensure you get the flights and hotels you want. If you want to see a lot of Europe, consider a cruise. If you’re on a budget, consider a short three or four day stopover and tackle only the sights you absolutely have to see. Finally, when traveling about the European countryside, always set a daily limit on your spending.

Destination: anywhere? Money saving travel tips.

Regardless of where you vacation, following a few simple rules will minimize the impact on your bottom line while maximizing your fun. Always remember to:

1. Shop around. Just like anything else, deals are to be had if you know where to look. Check online resources for the best deals.

2. Only use a travel agent for big trips to far away places. You can handle the details of a weekend getaway.

3. Travel in the off season. Find out when your desired destination’s peak tourist season is, and don’t go then. Off season prices are much more acceptable.

4. Flexibility is key. Changing your travel itinerary by just a day or two can save you big.

5. For cruises, book early to take advantage of big savings. If using an agent, get one who’s a cruise expert. She can save you money and probably secure a few perks along the way.

6. When renting a car, only get the smallest possible one you can handle. It’s cheaper and so is the gas. At the counter, ask for a free upgrade; it doesn’t hurt to try. Always refuel your rental before you return it to avoid getting gouged by the return lot. Never rent a car at the airport, rates are better elsewhere. Finally, if you can understand the city’s public transportation, use it instead of renting a car.

7. When on the road, carry a cooler full of drinks and snacks. By stopping at a grocery store and loading up on supplies (e.g., aspirin, water, sunscreen, film) before you wander the countryside, you’ll avoid being taken to the cleaners by roadside tourist traps.

Joe Kenny writes for the Card Guide, a UK based credit cards site, visit today for introductory 0% balance transfers and start clearing credit card debt today.

Visit today: http://www.cardguide.co.uk/
Article Source: http://www.article99.com/view-authors/track.php?bio=1968&author=Joseph-Kenny

Choosing Your Family Vacation Destination

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 05:17:00 -0700

Author: Anurag Pareek

A small guide to choosing a family vacation destination. Tips on choosing the right holiday destination.

If you are planning to take a family vacation, make sure you know what you would really like to do. Most of the times, travelers choose their family vacation destination on their friend’s recommendations, but is that what you really want. It's never too early to plan and know what your heart desires and where you would like to take your family for a vacation..

Family vacations are needed for our emotional and mental rejuvenation. Vacations give a person a chance to relax, renew his energy, and free him from his daily routine and best of all a chance for enjoying with family. Vacations can be far away or close to home.

Deciding on the right family vacation destination is the first step. Here is our recommendation for best three places we think are great for a family vacation.

1. China - Most parts of China are still unexplored by tourist; however, the eastern portion is now popular with the western tourist. First class hotels now offer highest class of amenities and dozens are still being built. Great place for a family vacation, lots to see and kids would enjoy too.

3. Italy – Italy, the boot-shaped nation is surrounded by few of the most beautiful countries in the European Union. A great family vacation destination.

4. Caribbean - Caribbean is a group of islands. It has beautiful beaches of crushed coral and white sand and the water at the shore is a deep blue. A cruise of the Caribbean islands is recommended.

We hope that your family vacation is filled with fun and yes, if you are going to the beach don't forget to take your sunglasses and sub-block cream along with you. Have a great vacation.

Anurag writes for Exotic Escapades - Guide to family vacation destination and great travel tip for planning a great vacation. Share your travel experience with us. 1
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Article Source: http://www.article99.com/view-authors/track.php?bio=4461&author=Anurag-Pareek

10 Travel Packing Tips For Carry-On Only Traveling

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 05:11:00 -0700

10 Travel Packing Tips For Carry-On Only Traveling

Author: Michael Mobal

Discover how to ditch that heavy suitcase and enjoy the freedom of just traveling with hand luggage...

1. Find Out The Largest-Size Carry-On Luggage You're Aloud and Buy It

Although you want to significantly cut down on the amount of luggage you take, you should still take advantage of the maximum size carry on luggage you can take. Find out what the average carry on allowance is and buy an new bag to fit those dimensions.

2. Wear Your Heaviest/Bulkiest Items

Ok, so it's an obvious point, but if you're taking some bulky items, such as a thick coat, or walking boots, wear them on the plane and free up as much valuable space in your carry on luggage as possible.

3. Create A Packing List -- And Ruthlessly Edit

It This is something you can perfect over time. Basically, every time you go abroad create a packing list. Then, when you come home and unpack make a note of everything you didn't use. Then cross them off the list for next time!

4. Plan To Buy Things At Your Destination

Remember, most destinations will have places you can buy the basics you need to get you by. Need a smarter shirt for an unplanned trip to a fancy restaurant, just buy one at a local store. You'll also be able to discard these items if you need to before you leave.

5. Decant Toiletries Into Smaller Bottles

For your essential toiletries, do away with the bumper family size bottles and decant rations into smaller bottles. Not only will you save space, but also a lot of weight. And remember the point above -- if you run out you can always buy some more.

6. Roll Your Clothes

It's an old trick but an effective one. Rolling your clothes makes them easier to pack down into the corners of your carry on, plus it can help you avoid the creases created by folding.

7. Wear Clothing With Lots Of Pockets

Remember, you don't need to carry everything in your luggage. Wearing clothing with extra pockets, such as cargo pants, or those vests that professional photographers wear, you can carry many smaller items and leave space for the bigger stuff in your luggage.

8. Buy Speciality Travel Clothing That Converts

Now you can buy items of clothing specifically designed for travelers. Usually travel clothing has features such as being light-weight, breathable and none-creasing and quick drying, but you can also find clothing that is convertible. Trousers that turn into shorts, or long sleeved items that become short sleeved. By making your clothing work twice as hard, you can save twice as much space.

9. Buy Speciality Travel Products Designed To Be Compact

Aswell as clothing designed for traveling, you can find all manner of accessories that have been designed for traveling and to be compact. For example a travel towel can be a quarter of the size of a traditional towel.

10. Ask Others For Their Tips

If you see someone breezing through check in with just one bag, stop them and ask them how they do it. Most people love to show off how clever and travel-savvy they are, so they'll be happy to share their wisdom with you!

These handy tips have been taken from the full 225-page Packing Secrets -- The Ultimate Packing Guide For Travelers.1 This guide was created by interviewing 100s of travelers, from business travelers to family vacationers.1 You can discover more using this link >> www.packingsecrets.com
Article Source: http://www.article99.com/view-authors/track.php?bio=14600&author=Michael-Mobal

BASAR- THE TEMPLE WORSHIP OF WISDOM AND KNOWLEDGE

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 01:56:00 -0700

The Basar is a must visit Saraswati Devi Temple in India, for all students who would like to grow up in their career ,which is situated near Hyderabad.

The auspicious temple of Saraswati at Basar is one of the two famous Saraswati temples in India, the other being in Kashmir. Legend has it that Great Sage Vyasa . who was author of Mahabharata and Bhagavadgeeta, during his stay here used to bring daily three handfuls of sand after a bath in Godavari and kept it at a place, which transformed as the images of Saraswati, Lakshmi and Kali. However, according to Brahmandapuranam, Adikavi Valmiki, the writer of Auspicious Ramayana, installed Idol of Goddess Saraswati and wrote Ramayana here. There is a marble image of Valmiki and his samadhi near the temple.
It is believed that this temple is one of the three temples constructed near the confluence of Manjira and Godavari rivers by Ashtrakuta Kings. According to another school of thought Bijialudu a Karnataka king, who ruled the province of Nandagiri with Nanded as his capital in the sixth century, constructed the temple at Basar. The image of Lakshmi stands besides Goddess Saraswati in the sanctum sanctorium. Due to the presence of Saraswati, Lakshmi and Kali, Basar is considered the abode of the divine trinity.

The parents who wants to do Aksharabhyasam ( i.e. a ritual for initiating Knowledge,career and wisdom in children, babies) is performed daily here. In whole year during Navratri days, on the day of Saraswati Pooja, performing this ritual to your child gives great results in his life, it is believed.

HOW TO REACH:

1) You can reach from Mumbai via Devagiri Express Train.
2)From Hyderabad by Road.
3)From Nizamabad and Adilabad by road.

Where to stay:

Andhra Padesh has excellently developed amenities near all most all Ancient and great temples.
So this place has also have so many Hotels and lodges to stay.

You can also stay at Punnami Guest house of Andhra Pradesh Tourism and Development Corporation (APTDC). You can get both AC and NON-AC rooms ranging from Rs.600/- to 1300/- per day. It also has good restaurant.