Indian Tourism

Leh Ladakh, Leh Travel Guide, Leh Tourism

2013-05-19T23:29:00.000-07:00

Leh is the capital of the Himalayan kingdom Ladakh which is in the Indian state of Kashmir. Actually Leh is located in the crossroads of the old trading route of Tibet, Kashgar and Kashmir, which is in the Indus river valley. Leh was mainly popular because of trading, but after the partition of British India, the trading stopped and finally the borders were closed during the Sino-Indian war in the year 1962. From the year 1974 Leh was bustling with the tourists, as it was the first time it was opened for all. But the Indian or rather the domestic tourists have stepped their foot in Ladakh, somewhat from 2000, their was a dramatic increase among the tourists in Ladakh after the release of an Indian movie 3 Idiots in 2010.

A part of Leh

Leh is a small town, and one can easily go around by your foot. The picture of old Leh town is somewhat like this, the place is quite compact, with houses made of mud and brick, and he narrow lanes which direct to the east of the main market. Another important place is Chanspa which is northwest of Leh is an agricultural suburb, and has many guest houses.

Chanspa

The elevation of the main market is almost 3524 meters, so first few days of your visit in Leh, you might suffer from altitude sickness.

Climate

Leh has got cold desert type climate, with long and harsh winters starting from October to the beginning of March, with the minimum temperature dropping down below freezing point. Leh occasionally receives snowfall in winter. Apart from winter, other months in Leh are quite fine and day times are warm and pleasant. The average temperature in Leh ranges from -28 degree Celsius in winter to 33 degree Celsius in Summer. Average rainfall which Leh receives is around 102mm.

Places of interest

Palace of Ladakh

This former Palace of Ladakh was built in the 17th century, is now under construction. This building is one of the noticeable building in Leh. The corridors of the Palace is very dark and spooky, floors have holes. In few words this a great place to explore. A must see, is the most furnished room in the Palace. is the beautiful, mysterious Buddhist prayer room which is at the center of the Palace is worth to praise. The exterior view of this Palace is spectacular. The entry fee is Rs. 100 only.

Palace of Ladakh

Old Town

The Old town in Leh, is one of the charming place, with old traditional touch in the architecture of the buildings standing still today. This place is seems to be forgotten by the world, a place can be called a hub for the photographers. The Old Town is just a walking distance from the Palace of Ladakh.


Old Town

Buddhist Temples

Namgyal Tsemo Gompa

This temple is above the Palace, was built during 1430, remains open during the morning puja from 7AM to 9 AM.

Namgyal Tsemo Gompa

Soma Gompa

Soma Gompa, is one of the large modern Gompa, is around the Main Bazar. This place is also the location of Ladakhi Buddhist Association, which is a political organization, and has a tie with Hindutva groups.

Soma Gompa

Karma Dupgyud Choeling

This monastery follows the style of Karma Kagyu Style.

Shanti Stupa

This modern stupa, was built by Buddhist Japanese group. This stupa, has somewhat became a little worn out, but still a worth to visit.

Shanti Stupa

Pangong Tso

Pangong Tso, is one of the charming lake, which is located at an altitude of 4350 meters. One will be blind to the awesomeness of the deep blue water of the lake, and the mighty tall mountain peak surrounding the lake like a guardian. The lake lies on on the boundary of Indo-China, with one-fourth part of the lake being in India. There is a road to this lake, which passes through Chang-la pass, which is said to be 5424 meters, almost 149 km from Leh. On this way to this place, is where a Yak safari is done. This passage is quite tough to cross by car. Bikers those who are experienced should have any problems.

Breathtaking Pangong

Pangong Tso surrounded by mountain

Monasteries in Ladakh

Most travelers, use Leh as the central point to visit all the most happening Buddhist monasteries and numerous Gompas in Ladakh.

Monastry in Leh

Transport

Road

Leh is connected to the rest of India, by two high altitude national highways, both are subject to deep snows and is difficult to pass during winter. The National Highway 1D which passes from Srinagar via Kargil is open for longer period of time and Leh Manali highway, is tough route due to high passes and plateaus.

Leh-Manali Highway

Air

Leh's nearest airport is Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee airport, where daily flights ply from Delhi, atleast on Kingfisher, Jet Airways or Indian airlines.

Another important thing in Leh, is their carnival, which is worth to enjoy, this carnival attracts tourists from all the corner of the globe.

Carnival of Ladakh

Leh is not only a haven for the trekkers or mountaineers but also a great place for honeymoon, a perfect place to bond with your partners among the mountains.

Khajuraho Group of monuments, Khajuraho Travel Guide, Khajuraho Tour

2013-05-10T11:25:00.000-07:00

Khajuraho, a small town, famous for the group of Hindu and Jain temple is located in the Bundelkhand region of the Indian state, Madhya Pradesh. This temple is the part of UNESCO World Heritage Site, these temples are famous for their beautiful and remarkable rock carvings. The Vindya range of mountains are perfect backdrop of Khajuraho, which makes the place more fascinating destination for the tourists.

Khajuraho Caves

The art or the architecture of the Khajuraho's temple is an indication of an essence of the philosophy of Indian artistic style. The amorous sculptures of Khajuraho depict Kama Sutra are unique in the world. These sculptures which represents the Indo-Aryan architecture, a lyrical hymn of love and passion is coagulate in stone, shows the Chandela dynasty's immense love and respect for the forbidden art.These temples are not only famous for its erotic sculptures, but these temples too have some revered Gods of Hinduism.

During the rule of Chandela dynasty, these temples were built between 950 A.D to 1050 A.D. During the 13th century, when there was a decline of Chandela dynasty, then for years these temples were left covered under the dense date palm trees. The city has got its name from it, date palm in Hindi means Khajur. During the ancient times, the city was called Vatsa.

In the year 1838, a British army engineer Captain T.S. Burt, have rediscovered them, but by that time 22 out of original 85 temples have only survived.

Climate

Khajuraho has got an extreme variation in the day and night, with minimal rainfall. The summers are usually too hot with, 45 degree Celsius, the winters are pleasant with 27 degree Celsius. Since summer months are too hot, winter is the perfect time to visit. Another good time to visit Khajuraho is March, during that time Khajuraho dance festival takes place. So its better to visit Khajuraho from September to March.

Tourism

In every temple one will have a chance to see the depiction of kinship, royalty, armies, wrestling, marriage, courtship, lovemaking, dance, music, spiritual teaching, meditation, plants, animals, and abundance of all human forms.

Audio guides

The Archeological Survey of India have introduced official self guided, audio tour facilities for international standards for visitors. This device allows the visitors to see the Khajuraho Group of Monuments at their own pace. Guides may avail this service from the official audio guide booth, near monument ticket counter. Prices for audio service guides are Rs.100 for English and other foreign languages and Rs.60 for Hindi and other Indian languages.

Western Group of Temples

The entry fee of Rs.10 is for the Indians and USD $5 for the foreigners to enter the western group of temples, if anyone has got the ticket of Taj Mahal, can use it here.The temples are open from sunrise to sunset. These group of temples are richest and largest of all the temple group.

Lakhmana Temple: This Vaishnavite temple is one of the oldest and finest temple among the western group of temples,is named after the ruler, who built this temple. There is an A horizontal beam over the entrance of this temple, which shows the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu with her consort and Shiva with Lakshmi.

Lakhmana Temple

Kandariya Mahadeo Temple: This temple is beautifully decorated with the many sculptures which are considered to be among the greatest masterpiece of Indian art.

Kandariya Mahadeo Temple

Devi Jagdamba Temple: This temple is dedicated to the Goddess, is smaller in size and well proportioned temple, and is considered to be the home of the some of the finest sculptors of Khajuraho. The garbha griha has got the huge image of Goddess of Universe (Devi Jagdhambi), this temple was actually started as Vishnu temple. This temple has three band of sculptures, the third is in the uppermost house, has got some of the erotic sculptures.

Chaunsat Yogini: This temple is the only granite temple among the Khajuraho temple group.

Chitragupta Temple: This temple is dedicated to Sun God Surya, this temple is faced eastwards towards the rising sun.

Chitragupta Temple

Matangeswara Temple: This temple is actually dedicated to lord Shiva, a 8 ft huge Shiva lingam adorns the temple.

Varaha Temple:This temple is dedicated to the Varaha avatar of Lord Vishnu, where he holds the statue of Vraha means boar in the center stage and the Seshnag lying beneath. Tthe idol is carving of Devi Saraswati, on the snout of Varaha, reflects that every word seeks blessings from Devi Saraswati.

Part of Varaha Temple

Vishwanath Temple: This temple is totally dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as Vishwanath means master of the Universe, in that same premises also has a temple dedicated to Nandi, the companion, the attendent and the closest aide of Lord Shiva.

Light and sound show at Western group of temples is held at every evening, narrated by the Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachhan. For Indians, the entry fee is Rs.120, and for the foreigners

Eastern Group of Temples

Parshvanath Temple: This temple is largest among eastern group of temples, has got exquisite carvings in details. The sculptures which are on the northern outer wall of the temple, highlights the temple. These images were installed in 1860. The three roofs in the temple depicts mixture of Hindu, Buddhist and Muslim influence.

Parshvanath Temple

Ghantai Temple: This Jain temple has an embellishment, which depicts the 16 dreams of Mahavira's mother and a Jain Goddess on a Garuda.
Adinath Temple: This temple is dedicated to Jain God (Tirthankar) Adinath, this temple is beautifully decorated with artistic sculptures including yakshis.

Flying Celestial of Adinath Temple

Brahma Temple: This Vishnu temple is made entirely of granite and sandstone,is considered one of oldest temple of Khajuraho.
Vamana Temple:This temple is located in secluded place, is known for its simple architecture,this temple is dedicated to dwarf form of Lord Vishnu.

Vamana Temple

Southern Group of Temples

Dulhadev Temple: This temple is the last temple of Khajuraho, it lies south of the Ghantai Temple. A Shivalingam is enshrined on that temple. The striking feature of that temple is the ornamental figures and the sculptors of Apsara.

Sculpture of Dulhadev Temple

Beejamandal Temple: This temple is near Chatturbhuj Temple,is ruined now.
Chatturbhuj Temple or The Jatkari Temple: This temple is built in1100 A.D. this temple is devoid of erotic sculpturs. There is 9ft intricatly carved Vishnu idol on Chatturbhuja.

Chatturbhuj Temple

Khajuraho Dance Festival

Khajuraho dance festival is a weak long festivals of classical dances held every year against the backdrop of magnificently lit Khajuraho temples, is organized by the Madhya Pradesh Kala Parishad.
This festival highlights the richness of the various styleof Indian Classical dances like, Bharatnatyam, Odissi, Kathak, Manipuri, Kuchipudi, Kathakali. Recently modern dances are also added. This dance programmes are held in the open air auditorium in front of Chitragupta Temple and Vishwanath Temple belonging to the western group.

Khajuraho Dance Festival

Transport

Air

Kajuraho Airport is the nearest airport, which is 5 km away from the main city.

Rail

Khajuraho station was opened in the year 200,linking to Jhansi. There are trains from Agra, Varanasi, New Delhi.
Satna is the alternative station for Khajuraho.

Road

Khajuraho is well connected by Satna and Jhansi withregular bus services.

Shillong Tourism, Shillong Travel Guide, Shillong Hill Station

2013-05-07T06:14:00.004-07:00

Shillong is one of the largest town ans capital of the Indian state called Meghalaya. Shillong is the perfect place where you can have a perfect honeymoon with the clouds. This city has got a milder climate than the tropical India, as this place is located in surging pine covered hills. The city which is popularly known as abode of clouds, is1496 meters above the sea level; since Shillong is a home of many waterfalls, hence it is called the Scotland of East. One will find the a touch of British legacy still today, in the architecture and also in the food habits of the residing people of Shillong.

View of Shillong

The architecture of the houses of Shillong, is that of the Assam style; the roofs are slanting, large number of windows are present and the floors are made of wood, which looks like a piece of art. These Assam style houses is beneficial for Shillong as this place receives heavy rainfall, and are very much prone to earthquake. During the monsoon, Shillong receives heavy rainfall, this last for a longer period of time than rest of India. Therefore, an umbrella is very necessary, tourists who wishes to visit Shillong, must pack an umbrella in their bag. Although people avoid to visit Shillong during the monsoon, but this is the time, Shillong remains clean as all the garbage are cleared with rain water and at that the waterfalls are at full strength.

Climate

Shillong has got a pollution free summer, where the temperature remains 23 degree Celsius, the temperature of Shillong varies 4 degree Celsius during the winter months. Usually Shillong receives less perspiration, then rest of the country. Shillong and monsoon goes simultaneously, the monsoon arrives in the June and rains until, the end of August.

So, it is advisable, that the best time to visit Shillong is during October to November and March to April.

Places of interest

There are many places in and around Shillong, which are tourist spots, here we will be discussing some of the well known tourist spots.

Elephant Falls

Elephant Falls, is in the upper Shillong area, it also houses the Eastern Air Command of Indian air Force. This picturesque waterfall is more of a collection of smaller falls, it is not a continuous falls.This scenic fall has got a footpath which leads to the bottom of the fall from where it reaches a small lake. The name of this Elephant Fall was given by the British, as there is a rock by the side of the fall, which resembles elephant, this rock was destroyed in earthquake.

Elephant Falls

Shillong Peak

Shillong Peak is 1965 meters above sea level, is the highest point in Meghalaya. From this point, you can have bewildering view of Shillong, the city's beauty during the night is something worth to remember. It also has the radar station of Indian Air Force , the tourists are advised not to take snaps of the radar facilities there, they should once declare their camera, as soon as they reach the point.


Shillong Peak

Entomological Museum (Butterfly Museum)

This museum has got a huge collection of different types of butterflies. This museum is very beneficial to the students of Zoology. This museum is not only attractive and beneficial for the children but also for the adults too as they will have an opportunity to enjoy and play with the different kinds of colorful butterflies. This Museum present some of the fine and rare species of butterflies and moths.

Shillong Golf Course

Shillong Golf Course is the first golf course in India which has 18 holes in it, it is almost at an altitude of 5200ft. This place is like a dreamland for the putters. This golf course is one of the beautiful and is located in such a unique place, that it is compared with the 'Glen Eagle Course' of the United States.

Shillong Golf Course

Bishop and Beadon Falls

These two very beautiful falls are located in the Suna valley. Suna is a home to many wild animals, like leopards, langurs, deer, wild cats and variety of bird species.


Beadon Falls


Bishop Falls

Sweet Falls

Sweet Falls is a very steep fall, and is located in the Happy Valley. It is advisable that extreme caution should be taken, as there are no barricades, the rocks are always very slippery due to rain or dew.

Sweet Falls

Lady Hydari Park

Lady Hydari Park is a place where variety of local flowering plants and orchids are found. There is a mini zoo and a deer park which is spread more than a kilometer. This place has got a beautiful picnic spot for the local crowd. This park is named after Lady Hydari, wife of the then Governor of Assam.

Lady Hydari Park

Flowering Plants at Lady Hydari Park

Wards Lake

Wards Lake is an artificial lake, has got a garden and a boating facilities. Wards Lake is locally known as Nan-Polok.

Wards Lake

Don Bosco Centre of Indigenous Culture

The Don Bosco Museum is actually part of DBCIC (Don Bosco Centre of Indigenous Culture). DBCIC comprised of research on cultures, publications, animation programmes, training. The museum which is a place of knowledge sharing about the culture of north east in particular and other cultures too. DBCIC is at Mawlai, Shillong.

Transport

Although Shillong is well connected by road. But Shillong has got no rail connection, air connection are not that of worth. Umroi airport is the only airport of Shillong , where limited flights ply.

Roadways

Shillong is well connected with the other northeastern states, two major national highways passes through Shillong, they are National Highway 40 is connected to Guwahati; National Highway 44 is connected to Tripura and Mizoram.
Private buses and state transport buses ply to and from Shillong daily. Sumo taxis are also available to the destination like Tripura, Guwahati and other cities and towns of north eastern states.

Nainital Tourism, Nainital Travel Guide, Nainital Hill Station

2013-05-05T06:09:00.000-07:00

Nainital, in Uttarakhnad, is one of the popular Indian hill station. The name Nainital, is derived from its famous lake, called Lake Naini. This dream place is nestled in amidst of the mighty peaks of the Kumaon hills, this dream place offers one a lot. Nainital, to provides with all the facilities, one would love to have in a hill station from, exploring Jim Corbett's home, to feeding animals in the zoo, from boating, to picnicking on the hills. Lake Naini has separated Nainital into two parts: Tallital and Mallital. In the southern side of the Lake is Tallital and on the northern upper reaches of the lake is Mallital. In the year 1880, this town was destroyed in the landslip, but later, Nainital was re-built by the British. This place is renowned for its lake, prestigious educational institutions. Nainital is also known as the Lake district of Uttarakhand. If anynone is planning to make a trip to this dream land, then Summer time in India that is from May to July, is the perfect time. Nainital is great place for the couples , those who are planning for honeymoon.

Nainital

Climate

Nainital experience temperate summer, the maximum temperature in summer is almost 27 degree Celsius, and 7 degree Celsius is the minimum temperature. Nainital draws maximum tourists in the months of summer. While, during the winter months, Nainital receives snowfall between, December to February, the maximum temperature in the winter is almost 15 degree Celsius, while the minimum temperature is almost -3 degree Celsius.


Snowfall in Nainital

Tourism

Tourism is one of the important segment of Nainital's economy. The following are the places which are mostly visited by the tourists.:

Nainital Lake

Also popularly known as Lake Naini, this eye-shaped lake is situated in the heart of the city, Nainital earned its name, owing to this lake. This lake is a hotspot and attracts tourists like magnet, those who visit this hill resort. Well, the tourists can indulge themselves in the leisurely walk along the bank of the lake, or can indulge themselves in boating. Tallital is the southern end of the lake, while Mallital is the northern end of the lake. The two banks of the lake is connected by the Lake Bridge, which has quite a few shops and post office, this is the only one post office in the world to be located on a bridge.

Nainital Lake

Naini Devi Temple

On the northern shore of Lake Naini, is the Naini Devi Temple, the deity which presides in this temple is the Naina Devi, she is represented by two netras (eyes). On the both the sides of Naina Devi are the deities of Lord Ganesha and Mata Kali. Nainital is actually believed to be one of the Shaktipeethas, one of the body part of Sati fell, when Lord Shiva was carrying her body. It is assumed that the eyes (netras) of the Goddess have fallen here. This shrine is a must visit for the Hindu devotees, those who visits Nainital, this temple was reconstructed after it got damaged in the landslide of 1880. From the temple, overlooking the lake, one can get a beautiful view of the hill station.

Naini Devi Temple

St. John in the Wilderness

This church was established in the year 1844, this church is north of the town Mallital and almost half a mile north west of the Naina Devi Temple. This church was named after Daniel Wilson , the Bishop of Calcutta, who fell ill, during his visit to Nainital in 1844, to lay the foundation of the church, he was obliged to sleep in an unfinished house in the edge of the forest. The names of the victims of the landslide in 1880, was altered on the brass plaque.

St. John in the Wilderness

Governor's House

Governor's house is also known as Raj Bhavan, This Government House was built in the year 1899, this was designed in the Victorian Gothic domestic style, F.W Stevens was the architect of the Government House. Now the Raj Bhavan has become the guest house for the Governor of Uttarakhand and for the state guest.

Governor's House

Snow View

Snow View is at an altitude of 7,450 ft and is located at the top of Sher-ka-danda Ridge which is north by north east of the town center, and is easily accessible by cable cars. Charges for the car is Rs.150 per person and for children it is Rs.75. There is a charge for staying an hour at that point. The timing of visiting Snow View is from 10 am to 5 pm. On a very clear day, one will be spell bounded to see the snow clad Himalayas, including Nanda Kot, Trishul, Nanda Devi. Late October to November are the best time to view this mountains.

Snow View

Naini Peak

Naini Peak is also known as Naina Peak, Cheena Peak or China Peak, is the highest peak of the town, with the altitude of 8,579 ff, and at the walking distance of 6km from the north end of the town Mallital. From the top of the peak, one will have a opportunity not only to view the broad swath of snow capped Himalaya, but also will be lucky enough to have a panoramic view of the Nainital town.

Naini Peak

Tiffin Top

Tiffin's Top is also popularly known as Dorothy's Seat, is almost 7,520 ft on Ayarpatta hill, which is almost 4 km from the center town and they offer an amazing. Dorothy's Seat is actually a stonework picnic perch on the Tiffin Top was built as a memorial of a British Army officer's wife Dorothy Kellet by her husband Col. J.P Kellet.


Tiffin Top

Gurney House

Gurney House is a former residence of Jim Corbett is on the Ayarpatta hill. Before leaving for Kenya, Jim and her sister Maggie, sold this house to a zamindari family from Bihar. Though this is a private residence, but this house is open to all the visitors as a museum of Corbett memorabilia.


Gurney House

Place's near Nainital

The Jim Corbett National Park

One of the oldest national park in India is in the Nainital district. Jim Corbett National Park is west by north west of Nainital, contains a large variety of species, starting from tiger, sambar deer, chital, elephant, flying fox, wild boar, Indian Pangolin, King Cobra, hedgehog.

The Jim Corbett National Park

Mukteshwar

Mukteshwar can be called a picturesque town, which is almost 52 km north east of Nainital, is also a place of Indian Veterinary Institute.One will also have a chance to view the unhindered high mountains of western Himalayas, including Trishul, Nanda Kot and Nanda Devi.

Bhimtal Lake

Bhimtal Lake is the biggest lake of Nainital, is almost 22 km from the city. This lake is named after second Pandava brother in Mahabharata, Bhim, who was known for his prestigious strength. This lake is almost 4,490 ft in height. There is a popular restaurants on the island of the lake. In the 17th century a temple complex was built, Bhimeshwar, beside a 40 ft high dam was built at one end of the lake.

Bhimtal Lake

Transport

Rail

Kathgodam is almost 35 km away from Nainital, is the nearest railway station. Trains for Kathgodam are available from Delhi, Gorakhpur, Lucknow Dehradun, Howrah (Kolkata), Haridwar.

Road

There is a daily bus service from Delhi, the buses leaves from ISBT Anand Vihar Delhi, and runs by Uttarakhand roadways.

Air

PantNagar Airport is the nearest airport of Nainital, this airport handles only six schedule flights a week.

Udaipur Travel Guide, Udaipur Tourism

2013-05-04T01:07:00.000-07:00

Udaipur, in Rajasthan was the capital of former princely state called Mewar, is famous for its palaces and lakes. A current favorite place not only for the Westerners, but also a popular honeymoon destination for the newly wed couples.Udaipur is called the Kashmir of Rajasthan a reference with the lakes, this awesome place is also referred as one of the romantic city of India. This town is in the heart of the mountain Aravalli, this mountain offers three interconnected rivers within the town, they are the Lake Pichhola , the Fateh Sagar lake, and the Swaroop Sagar Lake. This city can also be called the the mixed blend of both enchanting old and modern town with the forts, palaces, gardens, fountains, temples, mountains, those narrow lanes, relives us of those heroic past and chivalry and valor.

Culture

This beautiful city receives ample of tourist from all over the world every year. Bhil tribes still inhabits here in Udaipur. The dwellers of Udaipur are very innocent, nice and friendly people, at first look, one may find them very difficult to talk to but, honestly they are very good at heart.In this modern world, this city still have not touch of modernity, the inhabitants of dessert are simple, cheerful and well built, these people are always very colorful, they prefer wearing bright, colorful clothes. The culture prosperity of Udaipur is depicted by their colorful fairs and festivals.

Colorful people of udaipur

Climate

The best time to visit Udaipur is between September to March. During the summer months, the mercury level stays between the maximum temperature of 42 degree Celsius to minimum temperature of 28. 8 degree Celsius. The winter months are usually mild, with the maximum temperature rising to 28 degree Celsius and the minimum temperature dipping to 2.5 degree Celsius.

Tourist Attraction

City Palace, Udaipur

On the east bank of the Lake Pichhola, lies the series of palaces built at different times from the year 1559, from the balconies of these palaces, one will be able to have a panoramic view of "Jag Niwas". One will also have a chance to view from the balcony of those palaces, Jag Mandir on one side and city of Udaipur on the other. The main entrance of the palace is through the triple arched gate, commonly known as Tripolia built in the year 1725. this way now leads to courtyards, gardens, overlapping parations and terraces. Suraj Gokhda, is a place where the Maharanas used to present themselves during the times of difficulty to the people, in order to restore confidence. The Mor Chowk or the peacock courtyard is there, it got its name from the mosaic in glass, which decorates its wall. Another noteworthy feature is the Chini Chitrasha, in Bhim Vilas, one will get to see series of wall paintings of Lord Krishna. Apart from these things, there are other palaces, named after the princess of striking beauty, those who poisoned their lives in order to avert a battle in their hand by rival price. Those palaces include Krishna Vilas, Dilkhush Mahal, Moti Mahal, Sheesh Mahal. Thousands of visitors come here to see the antique articles, furnitures, paintaing, which these palaces contains.

City Palace, Udaipur

Night View of the City Palace, Udaipur

Shiv Niwas Palace Fateh Prakash Palace are the former guest house of the palace, are now converted into heritage hotels.

Lake Palace

The Lake Palace, is made up of marble, is on the Jag Niwas island of Lake Pichhola, was built in the year 1743-1746. This palace was originally built as a royal summer palace, but now it have turned into a luxury 5 star hotel.

Lake palace

Jag Mandir

Jag Mandir, is famous for its garden courtyard, is another island in Lake Pichhola. Here Shah Jahan took refugee when, he was revolting against his father.

Monsoon Palace

Monsoon Palace is known as Sajjan Garh Palace, this was the summer resort of Maharajas, situated at the top of the hill , fro there all the lakes can be viewed. This palace collect rain water, for the comsumption all through the year.

Monsoon Palace

Jagadish temple

The Jagadish Temple was built by Maharana Jagat Singh 1st in 1651, is a Hindu Temple in the middle of Udaipur. This temple is a very good example of Indo- Aryan architecture, a very example of art and architecture. This temple attracts many tourist every here. There, one will find some special things like Rajasthani dress and paintaings.

Jagadish Temple

Fateh Sagar Lake

Fateh Sagar Lake is in the north of lake Pichhola, was built by Maharana Jai Singh in in the year 1678, but was later reconstructed and extended by Maharana Fateh Singh after the damage caused due to heavy rain. In the year 1993-1994, the water of the lake was vanished and again in the year 2005-2006, the lake again regained its water.


Fateh Sagar Lake

Lake Pichola

There are two island in Lake Pichola, the Jag Mandir and the Jag Niwas. This lake was originally built by Maharana Udai Singh 2, this lake is 4 km long and 3 km wide. Lake Pichola, has got many ghats like washing ghat, bathing ghat, these ghats, have to be approached by boats, from the city palace of Udaipur.

Lake Pichola

Maharana Pratap memorial or Moti Magri

At the top of Moti Magri or Pearl Hill, and overlooking the Fateh Sagar lake lies the memorial of rajput hero Maharana Pratap. One will get to see the bronze statue of Maharana Pratap, and astride his favorite horse Chetak.

Moti Magri

Transport

Air

About 20 km away from the satellite town Udaipur, is the Dabok Airport also known as Maharana Pratap Airport. Daily flights ply to cities like Jaipur, then Delhi and Mumbai.

Rail

Udaipur has got good railway networks with the major cities in Rajasthan and also other Indian cities. Some famous luxurious trains like The Palace on Wheels,Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, Maharaja Express, The Indian Maharaja, also makes a schedule stop at Udaipur. Some of the popular trains that connect Udaipur, with the capital of India (Delhi) are Mewar Express and Chetak express.

As a whole Udaipur, will make a memorable trip, a trip to Udaipur is always benificial not only for the students, but also for the others. This place is also a perfect honeymoon destination, aperfect mixed blend of

Goa Tourism, goa Honeymoon Destination, Goa Travel Guide

2013-05-02T19:46:00.000-07:00

The map of India speaks that Goa is the smallest state in respect of area and fourth smallest in terms of population. Goa, is located in the West part of India, this region is popularly known as the Konkan Region. This smallest state of India is bounded by Maharashtra to the north and Karnataka to the south and east, while the Arabian Sea forms the western coast of Goa. Situated on the Malabar Coast, Goa is mainly popular for its sandy beaches, as one goes towards the Western Ghats , Goa becomes hilly. Mandavi and Zuari are two largest river of Goa, between the mouth of these two river lies the island of Goa called Ilhas. Panaji is the state capital of Goa, and Vasco da Gama is considered as the largest city of Goa.

Beach of Goa

Tourist Attraction

The most interesting fact of Goa is it is a perfect place where one will find excellent blend of traditional s well as modern aspects of life. If you touched yourself once at Goa, you will be mesmerized to see the plush beaches on one hand and natural landscape on the other . It is very sure that natural waterfalls, forest, beaches, will together make your holiday a memorable one. Goa is ideal for the honeymoon destination, in few words it can Goa is described as a mixed blend of picturesque beauty and a touch of romance will make a perfect honeymoon destination. So here we are giving you the idea of some of the top places Goa:

Panaji

Panaji is one of the beautiful coastal town of Goa, which is adorned with churches and cathedrals and a sting of beaches which draw tourist from all the corners of the world. The biggest attraction of Goa, is the Carnival celebration in the month of February, people visit here, in this month to enjoy and to witness the colorful parade on the street of Goa.


Goa Carnival

Dona Paula Beach

Dona Paul Beach is considered as one of the top visited spot in Goa, this beach is considered as a perfect destiny for the true lovers. This splendid beach is a place to enjoy the water sports, apart from that one can enjoy sunbathing and various other items from the local vendors. National Oceanography Institute is also be spot here. In fact this place is a haven for true lovers.

Dona Paula Beach

Chapel of St. Francis Xavier
Churches are one of the must see in Goa, the Chapel of St. Francis Xavier draws a largest tourist all through, the year, and is one of the must see in Goa.

Chapel of St.Francis Xavier

Anjuna Beach

Anjuna, almost 8 km away from west Mapusa, in Goa, this place is attractive due to picturesque fluorescent painted palm trees all around and for not so famous dull moon parties. Anjuna Beach is also famous for its rocking rave parties during Christmas and New Year.

Anjuna Beach

Baga Beach

One of the top beach of Goa, is Baga Beach. Baga, is almost 10 km west of Mapusa, is actually the extension of Calanguate beach, considered as one of the top visited place in Goa, sometimes the local people finds it difficult to decide from where it begins and where it ends.

Baga Beach

Fort Aguada

In Goan history, this monument occupies a special place. This fort holds a special place for the military, as this fort is an excellent example of military architecture.

Fort Aguada

Fact File

Language: Konkani and Marathi

Climate: Tropical Monsoon Climate

Food: Apart from Goan cuisine, rice and fish are the staple food.

Beverage: Cashew feni

Transport

Air

Goa international Airport is at INS Hansa, is a civil enclave, and there is naval airfield is near Dabolim at Vasco da Gama.

Road

Goa's public transport usually consist of private buses, connecting well to the other part of the state. Four national highways passes through this state.

Rail

Goa has two railway lines one is Konkan Railway and other is South Western Railway.

It is a mater of the fact that Goa is considered as one of the best honeymoon destination in India, this place is truly called the haven for the lovers. The natural beauty of Goa, and the string of beaches, makes an ideal place for the honeymoon.

Cochin Tourism, Tour Cochin, Cochin Travel Guide

2013-05-01T10:55:00.000-07:00

Cochin is located on the Malabar coast in central Kerala.Cochin is considered as one of the finest natural harbors. This place is popularly known as Queen of the Arabian Sea. Cochin is considered as the business capital of Kerala. This place is considered, the gateway to the most enchanting backwaters of Kerala.

Cochin

Cochin is actually comprises of a group of island , scattered along the lake Vembanad. One of the most interesting feature about Cochin is, it is a place of mixed culture like English, Chinese, Jewish, French Dutch. It can also be said the Cochin is a drapery of various culture, colors, which attracts tourists from all the corners of the globe to its shore.

Vembanad

Tourist Attraction

The most interesting activities in Cochin tourist itinerary is to take a ferry ride across the vast backwaters of Cochin. It is always treat to the eyes, to see the coconut palms all over, the Chinese nets faced the backdrop the setting sun, one will be absolutely amazed by the beauty of Cochin. Another thing which many other cities in India cannot boast is the amazing houseboat rides on the backwaters of Cochin where the boats glides in water from one place to another like a fish. The backwaters of Cochin always is in the top notch in the tourist map of this amazingly beautiful city.

Cochin Port

Cochin is always a good choice for, no matter whether you are there to explore the charm of Bygone era, or to taste the lip smacking food or there to explore their own traditional culture or their art forms, or you are there to free yourself from the daily hectic schedule of your life.

Cochin has got many famous tourist spots in and around, they include; the Bolgatty island, where the Bolgatty palace is situated, which was built in the year 1744 by the Dutch. Another attraction is the man made island known as Willington island, is also a must visit spot, this island was made by filling the dredged soil around the tiny natural island, which actually existed previously.


Bolgatty Palace

When one will make a trip to the heritage zone of Fort Cochin, one will be amazed to see the mixed culture of Dutch, English and Portuguese colonial rule even today. We all believe in love at first sight, don't we? The shady avenues, the sleepy streets and the touch of European heritage and the added cosmopolitan culture, actually makes one fall in love with Cochin at first sight. The best way to discover the city is take a leisurely stroll on the streets of the Cochin, which will tell you the thousand tales of this charming and delightful city. Sometimes, one falls short of words to describe the beauty of Cochin, so it is always advisable to visit this place at least once, take a ferry ride on the blue lagoons, experience the rustic life of the people of Cochin and obviously the beauty of the place, shop till your heart desires in the local antique shop, or enjoy your life to the fullest in the roadside cafe. The options are always your, when you are at Cochin, if any one wants to indulge yourself in Ayurveda massage, so one should always try the one at the Fort Cochin, which is the authenticate place of Ayurveda massage.

Fort Kochi

Santa Cruz basilica, Fort Kochi

Another place where one can spend time with your loved ones in the evening as well as one can have wonderful meet with the sun and sand. For you there are good eateries and restaurants which serves fresh fish items at a very reasonable prices.

Transport

Air

The Cochin International Airport Limited is almost 22 km away from the city Cochin, international and domestic flights ply regularly from this airport.

Road

Cochin is connected to all parts of India through its wide networks of roads and Highways. NH17 and NH 47 passes through the city. Apart from that there are bus services which keep Cochin well connected with the other part of the city as well as other part of South India.

Apart from that for distant locations cabs are always better option. Within the city auto rikshaws are always better. if any one wishes to visit Mattanchery or Fort Kochi, since they are close to the market place , so bike is always are wise options, there are many bike rental shops in the market.

Rail

The three major railway station of Cochin is Ernakulam town station, Ernakulam junction station and Cochin Harbor station, which provide regular train services to all the major cities of India.

Fact File

Climate

This city enjoys a uniform temperature, tropical climate throughout the year.

Best time to Visit

Usually, Department of Tourism some festivals and carnivals from the month of October and extend till end March, these are the time when tourist visits Kerala, apart from that due to some or the other events, all the twelve months are there for tourists. There is a new concept called "monsoon tourism" for the tourist to enjoy the dream season and and the monsoon magic of Kerala, this is also the time to rejuvenate Ayurvedic therapies are some of the theme offers one get in these holidays.

Cochin Carnival

In few words, it is an acceptable fact that Cochin tourism is very diverse in its own way. So it is better, come and experience this charming and friendly city, which is in one word is the "favorite" destination for all the tourist.

Alleppey Tourism, Alleppey Backwater Cruise, Alleppey House boat

2013-03-29T20:07:00.000-07:00

Alleppey is located in the southern part of Kerala, and it share its border with the districts of Kollam, Ernakulam, Kotyam and Pathanamthitta. Alleppey is almost 64 km away from Kochi and almost 162 km away from the state capital Thiruvananthapuram.
Alleppey is fondly called "the Venice of the East" because the waterways and the channels are interconnecting to each other, this popular cliche was first actually used by Lord Curzon, the then Viceroy and Governor General of India, to describe the beauty of Alleppey. The place Alleppey, as it is called in local language do keep up to its name. These waterways are best to be explored in country boats like in Venice.

Backwaters in Alleppey

There are numerous reasons for Alleppey being so demanding among the tourists. It is the only place other than Holland, where rice is cultivated under the sea level. The reason behind Alleppey being so enchanting and receptive to the tourist all around the globe is due to the place's unimaginable beauty, the picturesque village with the blue backwater at the backdrop, paddy field, Chinese net and most importantly the coconut palms are there to the extra beauty of the place, the slow pace of life in the lagoons and the placidity of the place is broken by the echoing calls of the migratory birds, brings you into a different world altogether.

Alleppey

Today scores of tourists are attracted to Alleppey is only because of its backwaters, this is the only reason why Alleppey attracts number of tourists every year. Another biggest crowed puller of this place is the boat races of Alleppey. One of the red letters day of Alleppey tourist calender is during the Nehru boat race, when sores of snake boats which has got the capacity of accommodating almost 120 oarsmen , cutting through the water,race up to reach the finishing line.

Snake boat race

No trip in Alleppey will be complete without a trip in the house boats. These house boats which are made from the Eco-friendly materials like ropes and wood were previously used to carry things like farm produce like rice along the waterways. But as time passes, these house boats are used as a part of leisure cruise for the tourists of Alleppey along the Punnamada Lake and also along the Alleppey backwater, apart from your memorable stay in the amidst the water. Whether it is honeymoon or a corporate holiday or a family trip, it is ensured, that you will enjoy every bit of your memorable stay in the house boat.

House Boat

One of the interesting factor about the back water of Alleppey is the waterways which are interconnected to each other, forms a 900km of navigable backwaters of Kerala.

Punnamada Lake

Alleppey is truly different from other places in India because, here the life of Alleppey is revolving around water, instead of cars, people here own country boats; children learn to swim here, before they learn to walk. Instead of clock alarm, people hear wake up by the hooting sound of the ferry; where not only human beings use the ferry across the backwaters, but also e vegetables and other items are being sold in these ferries but also posts.

Tourist Facilities

It is very obvious, that one will get to do no other activities, as there is water water every where! All you can do is take a close view of the village, the life around the village, can swim along the shallow water, if one wishes, can explore the local market that sells local handicraft items. One can also try their hands in fishing rods. If one wish to taste a local beverage, can hop into the local toddy shop and have a taste of local coconut toddy along with some spicy fish delicacies including there signature dish karimeen.

You can also visit the Andrew Church which was founded in 1866 by the Portuguese missionaries and also the fabled Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple.

Here one must try some mouthwatering sea food items like Karimeen Pollichathu ( Pearl spotted fish being cooked in banana leaf), then you have Konju Ulathiyathu (Tiger Prawns), Chemmeen Fry (prawns) and if anyone like to taste some spicy food can try the ones available at the toddy shop. One must try the jackfruit chips and the banana chips, which are sold almost at all the shops.

Climate

Since Alleppey is close to the sea, this place enjoys a moderate tropical climate. The average rainfall in Alleppey is almost 229cm. In summer, the temperature hovers around 35 degree Celsius and 20 degree Celsius in the summer.

Fact File

August to March are the ideal months to visit Alleppey, recently there the concept of "Monsoon tourism has gained wide popularity. During the month of August, the much acclaimed snake boat races are held.

Transport

Air

Cochin International airport is 64 km away from Alleppey and Thiruvananthapuram airport is 159 km away from Allepppey.

Road

Alleppey is very well connected with Kerela, with the rest of theroads. The national highway- NH 47 passes right though the town Alleppey.

Rail

Alleppey is well connected by rail, to all the parts of India, in the center of the town, the railway station is located.

Water

Alleppey is well connected with Kumarakan, Kottyam, Kollam, Cochin, with the help of the regular boat services. The jetty boat is located in the center of the town.

It is advisable to all, that once in a lifetime, one should visit this place, should enjoy and taste this lovely flavor of this heavenly place, where one will be mesmerized by the serene beauty of Alleppey, will feel like staying in a true dream land.

Kovalam Beach, Kovalam Tourism, Kovalam Travel Guide

2013-03-25T21:55:00.001-07:00

Kovalam is a beach town by the Arabian Sea is almost 16 km from the Trivandrum city, in Kerala, India. The name Kovalam has been derived from coconut trees. There are plenty of reasons behind the beach of Kovalam, known as "The Paradise of the south" because, in this little beach you will get to experience both the feeling of a cool breeze blowing and a warm summer sun, when you walk along the sandy beach of Kovalam. If any one is deciding to plan a holiday or a honeymoon in a perfect beach, it is assured that Kovalam will make a memorable holiday for the one.

Kovalam Beach

Mainly, there are three beaches in Kovalam, they are the Lighthouse which gives an awesome view of the moon shaped beach and the Vizhingjam mosque. Samudra beach lies to the north of Kovalam, where you won't be able to realize how time flies away. Hawah beach is in the center of Kovalam is a center place of activities from where the fishermen set out for fishing. The rocky foreland synthesize with the serene blue bay and turn the bay into an undefined aquarelle in the moonlight nights. There are three bays in the palm groove, there are a sheltered bay, the azure waters and the opulent reaches.

Tourist Interest

Kovalam provides all the opportunity starting from swimming in the beach to taking sun bath, yoga, ayurveda and meditative contemplation are all available in Kovalam. In true sense Kovalam should be called a tropical paradise. Apart from all these Kovalam, is a fishing village, which also provides you fresh fruits to fishes and from toddy to coconut bear. One will actually be spell bounded by the beauty and the virginity of this tiny village, which is the spotlight of the Kerala tourism industry, which gives one an ultimate experience of India.

Kovalam Beach

Serenity and virginity oozes out from the beaches of Kovalam, in addition to your enjoyment, there are lovely lodges, for the one to stay and enjoy themselves. Not only his, there are many restaurants, which serves both western and Indian cuisines, which are very delicious. In addition to your enjoyment, some lip smacking grilled sea food served here are king prawns, lobsters, kalamari, they are all served fresh, as they all are got fesh from the sea of Kovalam. To make your holiday, a memorable one, there are yoga centers, Ayurveda massage parlous, water sports facilities are all available here, thus this place makes a popular haven for the tourist from all the corners of the world.

Kovalam Beach view

The purplish blue color of the water and an amazing climate is appropriate for the swimming , all around the year, you won't be able to resist yourself from taking a dip into a saline water of the shallow pacific sea of Kovalam. One will be attracted to the clean white sandy beach, and will feel irresistible to lie on that awesome beach ideally and get yourself tanned. You can also indulge yourself in rejuvenating herbal, body massage and other holistic therapies. In spite of many tourist visiting Kovalam all through the year, Kovalam manages itself to maintain that charm all through, against many odds. Swimming and surfing are part of the water sports game. These are the factors which truly make Kovalam the "paradise of south", this is the reason, people from all over the globe, come here and enjoy this place very joyfully.


Kovalam Beach

Beaches of Kovalam

There are three beaches in Kovalam, and they re separated by the rocky outcrop in its 17km coastline, these three beaches together forms the famous crescent of the Kovalam beach.

Lighthouse Beach
Lighthouse beach is the southern most beach of Kovalam and is frequently visited by the tourists. Lighthouse beach has got its name from the old Vizhingjam Lighthouse located on the rocky promontory there. During the night, its intermittent lights render some unexplainable charm to the beach.

Lighthouse Beach
- Hawah Beach
  Hawah beach was previously known as the Eve's beach, was in the second rank. This beach is the center of the hub of activities, where the fishermen, set out for fishing from this beach. The calm blue water of the bay along with the high rocky promontory, together makes a paradise during the moonlight night.
  
  Hawah Beach
  - Samudra beach
    - Samudra beach is being separated by the large promontory from the southern side, here hardly you get to see tourists thronging here and there. This beach is manly used by the fishermen to ply their trade on this part of Kovalam.
    Samudra Beach
    
    Transport
    Kovalam is almost 16 km way from the Trivandrum city, taxis and auto rickshaws do ply between Trivandrum and Kovalam. Trivandrum airport is only 10 km away from Kovalam.
    
    As a whole, the calm blue bay, the natural scenic beauty, the white sand, the picturesque view of the beach along with the other other facilities like Ayurveda massage centers, yoga centers, water sports, makes Kovalam one of the most beautiful and charming holiday destination for the tourists all over the globe.

Srinagar Tourism, Srinagar Travel Guide, Srinagar Tourist Place

2013-03-23T10:12:00.000-07:00

Srinagar, is known as the summer capital of the Indian state Jammu and Kashmir, it is nested in the Kashmir valley, on the bank of the river Jhelum, which is the main tributary of the Indus. This city is mainly famous for its ornamental garden, beautiful lakes and attractive house boats. Apart from that, Srinagar is also famous for dry fruits and traditional Kashmiri handicrafts.

Srinagar is located on the both sides of the river Jhelum, which is also known as Vyath in Kashmir. Jhelum flows through the city and meanders through the valley, moves towards the Dal lake and deepens it. Another feature of this city is its nine old bridges, which connects two parts of the city.

Dal Lake

Near Srinagar is the wetland called Hokersar. During the month of winter, thousands of migratory birds come from Siberia. The wetland in Kashmir is used by the migratory birds as a transitory camp during the months of September to October and again during springs.

Hokersar is near Srinagar, is a wetland. During winter, many migratory birds come from Siberia, and other regions. It is said that these migratory birds coming from Central Asia and Central Asia use wetlands in Kashmir as their transitory camps Between the months of September to October and again during spring. It is important to note that this wetland in Kashmir plays a vital role in sustaining a huge population of breeding, staging and wintering birds.

Hokersar is considered as one of the world class wetland, is almost 14 km north of Srinagar and it almost covers an area of 13.75 square kilometers which includes marshy areas and lake. Hokersar is one of the well known accessible wetland in Kashmir which includes Hygam, Shalibug and Mirgund.

Birds one will get to see in Hokersar are mainly migratory ducks and geese, which includes Tuft Duck, Brahminey Duck, Garganey, Red-crested Pochard, Northern Pintail, Mallad Common Pochard, Ruddy Shelduck, Common Teal and many more.

Red-crested Pochard Duck

Climate

Srinagar has got humid subtropical climate, Srinagar is much cooler than rest of the country as we know that it is position in the the north and its highly elevated. Srinagar is surrounded by Himalayas and other mountains by all sides. The temperature is cool during winter with average temperature around 2.5 degree Celsius, with the temperature dropping below the freezing point at night. Moderate to heavy snowfall are expected during the months of winter. Another important fact is the only road which connect Srinagar to the rest of the country remains blocked for few days due to avalanche. Summer months are usually warm, sometimes temperature rising up to 30 degree Celsius during July. Usually Springs are wet and Autumn are dry.

Tourism

Srinagar is popularly known as the " Venice of the East" or the "Kashmiri Venice" because for its lake, especially the Dal Lake , special note for the house boats and also for Nagin Lake.

The Mughal Garden

Srinagar has got some of the lovely Mughal Gardens, other place of interest includes the royal fountain known as Chashma Sahi, the place of fairies called Pari Mahal, the garden of spring called Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh and Naseem Bagh. The Tulip Garden is another must visit has been recently opened by Sonia Gandhi.

The Tulip Garden

Gulab Bhavan, the palaces of the Maharajas, has turned into Lalit Grand Palace hotel now.

Transport

Road

Srinagar is being served by many highways including National Highway 1A and National Highway 1D.

Air

Regular flights ply between Srinagar to Leh, Jammu, Chandigarh and Delhi, and some internal flights ply occasionally.

Rail

Srinagar is the railway station which is almost 119 km on Kashmir valley has started from the year 2009, it connects Baramulla to Srinagar and also Anantnag and Qazigund.

Boat

Boat is used as one of the main mode of transport as we know, that Srinagar is situated on the Jhelum river and Dal Lake.

Places of Interest in Srinagar

Like Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar too have got some wonderful blend of cultural heritage. The holy places all around Srinagar depict the religious diversity and historical cultural of the Kashmir Valley.

The holy places in Srinagar includes:

Hazratbal Shrine

Hazratbal Shrine
Jama Masjid, Srinagar
Hamza Makhdum
Hari Parbhat
Shankaracharya Temple

As a whole, it is very true that Srinagar will definitely make a wonderful holiday destination not only for the Indians but also for the foreigners.

Kanha National Park

2013-03-18T00:25:00.000-07:00

Kanha National Park is not only a national park but also a Tiger Reserve which falls under the district of Mandla and Balaghat in Madhya Pradesh. Kanha was then divide into two sanctuaries during 1930s, into Banjar and Hallon, approximately covering the area of 250 and 300 Km². Kanha National Park was introduced to the world on 1 June 1955. Now almost covering the area of 940 Km² which includes two districts Mandla and Balaghat. "Kanha Tiger Reserve" has form by almost covering the buffer zone of 1, 067 Km² and the very neighboring Phen Sanctuary which covers 110 Km². On !4 April Kanha National Park came under Madhya Pradesh Forest Department. Thus Kanha National Park is considered as the largest national park in Central India.

Kanha National Park

Kanha has been home to varied species of animals like Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian wild dog, Barasingha, bear, leopards and sloth. Even one will get to see varied species of trees and plants like Bamboo forests, lush sal, ravines, grassy meadows. It is considered that Rudyard Kipling has got inspiration from Kanha for his famous 'Jungle Book'.

Flora

It is said that almost over 1000 species of flowering plants are there in Kanha National Park. One will get to see two types of forest in Kanha National Park, they are: the lowland forest and the highland forest. One will get to see the mixture of other mixed forest trees and Sal, and it is interspersed with meadows. The highland forest of Kanha is of tropical type dry deciduous type with lots of different kinds of bamboo on the slope. Another interesting fact is a very good looking Indian ghost tree known as Kullu is also found in the dense forest.

Sal Tree

Kanha Tiger Reserve is bounded in meadows which is actually a grassland is in the fields and some of the abounded villages, they have away out for animals too. Kanha meadow is one such good example. Different species of grass which are found in Kanha, they are very important for the survival of Barasingha. In the dense forest zones of Kanha, one will get to see the abundant species of climbers, shrubs and herbs. Tal an aquatic plant are found in numbers which are known as the lifeline of migratory and wetland species birds.

Fauna

One of the apex predator in Kanha is the Tiger. Apart from Tiger other flesh eating population of Kanha includes are jackal, leopards, wild dogs, wild cats and many other

One of the only species of swamp deer is Barasingha which is known as the pride of the place is found only in Kanha, it is said that it is only a sub species of swamp deer found in India. These deers can live in had ground, not like the swamp deer from north, which are only adapted to marshy swamps. This national park has been very active for rescuing of the Brasingha from the extinction. One will get to see Gaur, it belongs to ox genus, mostly during winter ends, it is found only in Kanha. During the summer months Gaurs are found in meadows and water holes in the park.


Barasingha

Apart from these animals, other commonly seen animals are barking deer, spotted dear, sambar and the four horned deer. Recently in the Tiger Reserve, the mouse deer has also been found.

Black buck has been re-introduced in the fence area of the park, as previously it could not survive here, as the habitat was not suitable for it. At Sarahi Gate, Nilgai can still be seen and the Indian wolf which was seen at Mocha are rarely seen now. Occasionally sloth bear and Hyna are seen. Wild boar and langur are commonly seen.


Tiger at Kanha

Outside the park, nocturnal animals like hare, ratel, porcupine, hyna, honey badgr, jungle cats are seen.

Near the water bodies, many species of turtles can be seen, amphibians like cobras, pyhons, rat snakes, vipers, grass snakes.

Transport and other facilities

To reach the park, Jabalpur is the nearest place and the nearest airport( 175km), well with very limited flight connectivity. Even Nagpur and Raipur, too have airports, which have good connectivity with the county. Mandla has good road connection with Kanha as you will get good taxi connection from Jabalpur, which will go via Mandla and Nainpur.

In Kanha National Park, there are three gates for the entrance, the Khisli gate is easily accessed from Jabalpur and it stops in he village called Khatia in the buffer zone. The other two gates are Mukki and recently opened Serai.

General information about the park:

Area covering the park is 940 kilometer square.

Best season to visit this park is from February to June.

Visiting hours: morning visiting hours: 6 am -12 noon

evening visiting hours: 3 pm- 9pm

Closing : 1 July to 15 October.

Manas National Park

2013-02-19T22:05:00.000-08:00

Manas National Park is in the foothills of the Himalayas, in the Indian state Assam in India. This national park is not only a Wildlife Sanctuary, but also UNESCO natural World Heritage Site, apart from that it is a Project Tiger Reserve, an Elephant Reserve and even a Biosphere Reserve. This national park is adjoining with the Royal Manas National Park. Here in this park, one will get to see some rare , endangered and endemic species such as, Assam Roofed Turtle, Pygmy Hog, Golden langur and Hispid Hare. Manas is mainly famous for its huge population of wild water buffalo.

Manas National Park

The name of this national park was derived from the Manas River, which was named after Manas, the serpent Goddess. The river Manas is one of the main tributary of the Bramhaputra, which flows through the heart of this national park.

In the core of the National Park is the only forest village known as Agrang, apart from that there are more 56 villages around this park, where some way or the other, they are depend on this park.

Geography of the Park

Five districts falls under this park, there are Kokrajhar, Chirang, Baksa, Udalgiri, Darrang in Assam, India.

This park is mainly divided into three ranges, Panbari, is the western range, then Bansbari is the central range, which is near Barpeta road, and Bhuiyapara is the eastern range which is near Pathsala.

Located in the Eastern Himalayan foothills, Manas, has got a very dense forest. The major tributary of the Bramhaputra is the Manas river, which flows through this park, this river flows through the western park of the park, further it splits into two river namely Beki, Bholkaduba.

Climate

Here, the minimum temperature is around 15 degree Celsius and the maximum temperature is around 37 degree Celsius. This place receives the maximum rainfall between the months of May and September, the annual rainfall this place receives around is 333 cm.

Biomes

Mans has two major Biomes:

The grassland Biomes, which consists of wild Asian Buffalo, bengal florican, pygmy Hog and Indian rhinoceros.

The forest Biomes consists of capped langur, wild pig, sambar, wild pig, Malayan and black giant squirrel.

Flora

Vegetation

Between he borders of the Indo Gangetic and Indo Malayan biogeographical realms lies the Burma Monsoon Forest of Manas, which is also the part of the Bramhaputra Valley Biogeographic Province.

Arundo Donax

The main vegetation here are

In the northern part is the Sub-Himalayan Light Alluvial Semi-Evergreen Forests.
the most common type is the East Himalayan mixed Moist and Dry Deciduous Forest.
Low Alluvial Savanna Woodland, and
Assam Valley Semi- Evergreen Alluvial Grasslands, which almost covers 50% of the park

In the core zone of Manas, almost 543 plant species are recorded in which there are 374 species of dicotyledon which includes 89 trees, 139 species of monocotyledons and 30 species of Pteridophytes and Gymnosperms.

Bombax Ceiba

Some of common trees in the park included Syzgium cumini, Bombax ceiba, Trewia polycarpa, Arundo Donax, Oroxylum indicum, Bauhinia purpurea and many more.

Fauna

Manas has about 55 species of mammals, birds of 380 species, reptiles of 50 specie, 3 species of amphibians. Among them 31 mammals are threatened.

Jungle Fowls

This sanctuary has Barking Deer, Indian Rhinoceros, Gaur, Asian Elephants, Asian Water Buffalo, Indian Tigers, Leopards, Slow Loris, Hollock Gibbon, Assamese Macaques and many more.

This park is also famous for as it has some rare species which are not found in any part of the world, such as, Hispid Hare, Assam Roofed Turtle, Pygmy Hog, Golden Langur.

Assam Roofed Turtle

This national park is the home of 450 species of birds and interestingly it has the large number of Bengal Florician. Some of the birds includes are Bulbuls, Jungle fowls, Fishing Eagles, Falcons, Ospreys, Brahminey Duck, Egrets, Pelicans.

Tourist Interest

Tourist here will be able to enjoy, the Elephant Rides, the Jeep Jungle Safari, river rafting, Bird Watching, Manas nature Trails and Treks.

Keoladeo National Park

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The Keoladeo National Park is also popularly known as Keoladeo Ghana National Park was previously called Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is in Bharatpur, the Indian state of Rajasthan. This avifauna sanctuary is a home to thousands of birds during the months of winter. Almost over 230 species of birds have made this national sanctuary their homes. This place is one of the major attraction to the tourists and especially during the hibernal season for the ornithologists.In the year 1971, this area was declared as the protected area, this national sanctuary was also declared as World Heritage Site.

Keoladeo National Park

Keoladeo Ghana National Park is one of the national park in India, which is both man made and man managed wetland. Bharatpur has been protected by this national park from those frequent flood, it also provides a good grazing ground for the cattle and moreover this national park was previously was used as waterfowl hunting ground. Ghana, the 29 km reserve has got a wetland, dry grassland, woodland, swamps. This national park is a home to 379 floral species, 366 bird species, 13 species of snakes, 50 species of fishes, 5 species of lizards and 7 species of amphibians and turtles. It is said that this sanctuary is the world's largest and richest bird sanctuary. This sanctuary also provides nesting for its residing birds and also for other migratory birds which includes water birds too. Siberian Cranes used to be seen here during the months of winter, but they have become extinct now. it is said that this sanctuary is considered as the world's best bird area.

How to Reach there

Jaipur is the nearest airport, daily flights are available from Delhi, Mumbai, Varanasi, Lucknow. Delhi is also another nearest airport. Bharatpur Junction is the nearest railway station. Bharapur is also well connected by roads. one can also avail daily bus service which leaves from Delhi, Mathura Jaipur and Alwar. if anyone wishes to travel though his own vehicle, can also avail that. Trains leaving from New Delhi like (New Delhi-Mumbai and Agra-Jaipur roe) also stops at Bharatpur. One can easily avail taxis which is employed from Agra or Delhi). From the bus and taxi stand, the Park gate is quite close.

Climate

The climate in Bharatpur is said to be quite extreme, like it is quite chilled in winter and quite hot during summers. Like every year, it rains for almost 36 days.

Flora

This park is of semi arid biotype, is the only area which has got some vegetation, thus the word "Ghana" means thicket. This park consists of mixed vegetation like tropical dry deciduous forest to dry grassland where some part of forest has been degraded, here are some artificial marshes, along with it some medium sized trees and shrubs are also found.
In the northeast part of the park is the forests where one will find kadam (Mitryagyna parvifolia), jamun (Syzgium cumini), babul( Acacia nilotica) along with kandi (Prosopis cineraria) and ber (Zizyphus).
Ber and Kair are found in Scrub lands, soil found there are alluvial, due to periodic inundation some amount of clays are also found.
Babul, with few Ber and Kair are found in open woodland. Pillo (Salvadora oleoides) is the only wood plant found in the areas of saline soil. for the waterfowls, the aquatic vegetation provide valuable food.

Fauna

Here macro invertebrates like worms, insects, mollusks are found, they are major source of food for fishes and birds and hence form a good food chain. Land insects have become abundance now, which has given a positive effect on land birds.
this national park is popularly known as " bird's paradise, it is reported that around 370 species of birds are found here. Another notable thing is during the months of winter, Critically Endangered Siberian Cranes are found in these area.

Waterfowls

Since the park is located in the Gangetic Plains, thus it makes a good breeding place for cormorants, herons, strokes, during winters, it is a good place for some migrants ducks. The common waterfowls which are found here are common teal, cotton teal, tuft duck, comb duck, great cormorant, little cormorant, little shag, oriental ibis, darter, green sandpiper, Asian open-billed stroke, common sandpiper, and many more. Here you will find Sarus crane, who is famous for its courtship dance.

Tuft Duck

Landbirds

Rich assortments ares found among the land birds which includes babblers, bee-eaters, warblers, bulbuls, chats, quails, patridges. One will also find Grey horn-bills and Marshall's iora. Preying birds such as spotted eagle, imperial eagle, tony eagle are also found. A new recorder breeding species in India, is a Great Spotted eagle has been spotted breeding here.

Grey Horn-bill

Mammals

One will find 27 identifies species in Keoladeo National Park which includes Blue bull, spotted dear, cambar, white boar, Indian mongoose, fishing cat, jungle cat are also found.

Fishing Cats

This place is considered as one of the best bird watching place in Asian, almost 1,00,000 visitors visits here every year. Among them 45,000 are foreigners. The entry fee is Rs.200 for the foreigners and Rs.25 for the Indian. Vehicles are permitted up to Shanti Kutir, which is 1.7 kilometers inside where Rs. 50 is per vehicle. After that you can choose to walk, or take a bicycle or rikshaw.
As a whole, it will make one of your memorable holidays..

Periyar National Park

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Periyar National Park is also a Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its elephant reserve and tiger reserve falls under the districts of Idukki and Pathanamthitta in Kerela is a protected area. It almost covers the area of 925 square kilometers, in which three fifty square kilometer, he part of core zone was declared in 1982 as Periyar National Park.

Periyar National Park

This park is also known as Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, the other name of the park is "Thekkady". This national park is set along the border of Tamil Nadu, nested high on Cardamom Hills and Pandalam Hills which is along Southern Western Ghats. From Kumiley this park is almost 4 km, from Kottyam it is almost 100 km east , 110km west of Madurai and almost from Kochi it is almost 120 km southeast.


Tigers in Periyar

Climate

The temperature of this place varies almost depending on the altitude. During the month of December, it is said that temperature is around 15 degree Celsius and in the month of May to June it is almost 31 degree Celsius. Usually the annual perspiration varies from 2000 to 3000mm, where most perspiration occurs during South West monsoon during the month of June to September.

Flora

It is said that almost 75% of the protected area are almost covered by the unaffected evergreen or semi green rainforests. The species of typical tall tropical trees which varies from 40m to 50 m in height are found, they are namely, Vateria Indica, Hopea Pariveflora, Canarium Strictum, Bischofia Javanica.

The forest consists of 7% of Eucalyptus plantation, 13% of damp leaves forests, 1.5%of grassland and the rest 3.5% is the Periyar artificial lakes, Periyar river and Pamba rivers.

The overall survey says that almost 2000 kinds of flowering plants, 170 different species of ferns, three kind of seed plants are found. Among the flowering plants one will get 169 families of sweet grasses, and many other frequent flowers along with 145 types of orchids are found in this reserve.

For medicinal purpose almost 350 occuring plants are used.

For the tourists there is a lovely picnic spot with river flowing through.

Fauna

Mammals

Elephant is the main attraction in this national park, it is said that almost 62 different kinds of mammals are found including the one which are threatening too.It is estimated that almost 53 tigers are found in this reserve. Tourists come here for Indian elephants, for their act of playfulness in the Periyar Lake, it is said that almost 900 1000 individuals of elephants are found. Apart from this,other mammals found here are sambar, gaur, mouse deers, barking deers, Dholes, loepards, foxes, sometimes, Nilgiri Tahr are also visible.

Elephants in Periyar

It is also said that almost four types of primates are found which includes, lion tail macaque, Nilgiri langur, Bonnet Macaque, the common langur.

Birds

It is said that almost 320 different kins of birds are spotted in Periyar, which includes Kingfishers, the great Malabar Hornbill, cormorants, racket tailed drongos and darters.

Reptiles

This national park is the home to 45 different kinds of reptiles, among them are two turtles, 30 snakes and 13 lizards species. Tourists here also get to see the Monitor lizard, which is mostly spotted on the rock of lake share basking in the sun, even trekkers in the Periyar spots King Cobra and python sometimes.

Amphibians

It is recorded that almost 27 species of amphibians are spotted here, among which 10 of them are endemic to western ghats such as frogs and caecilians

Fish

In the water of the protected area of this national park38 different types of fishes are found, aming them some are endemic to Western Ghats. Like Salmons and Trout are found here.

Insects

In this protected area, almost 160 different kinds of insects including variety of butterflies are found here. Some dangerous insects too are found, which make cause some serious health problems to Humans.

Apart from the flora and fauna in the Periyar National Park, one will find the Temple of Sabarimala in the buffer zone of Periyar, which receives almost 4 million of tourists everyday.

Manali Tourism, Manali Travel Guide, Manali Hill Station

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Manali is situated in the lap of Beas River Valley, is one of the beautiful hill station which is burrowed in the mountains, at the northern end of Kullu Valley is in Himachal Pradesh, part of India.Manali, is almost 270 km north of state capital Shimla. As an admistratively part of Kullu district, Manali approximately has got got the population of around 30,000. Manali, begins from the very ancient trade route to Ladakh and then it goes over Karakoram Pass, taking on Yarkand and Khotan on the Tarim Basin.

Manali

It is said, that Manali, including its surrounding area has got a greater significance to Indian Culture, as these places are known as home of Saptarishi or Seven Sages.

Transport

Air: If anyone wishes to travel by air, the nearest airport is known as Kullu-Manali airport, which is at Bhuntar Town which is almpost 50 km South of Manali and 10 km South of Kullu. Some of the private airline including Indian Airlines provides regular service here. Apart from this, the nearest international airport is in Chandigarh.

Road: From Delhi, through national highway NH1 you can reach Chandigarh and from there one has to avail national highway NH21. The total distance from Delhi to Manali is 533 km.

Rail: Manali is not easy to approach by rail, the nearest broad gauge rail head are Chandigarh, Pathankot and Kalka, the nearest narrow gauge rail head are Joginder Nagar.

Tourism

Manali's economy mainly depends on tourism. Tourists from all the corners of the world are attracted not only ecause of the presence of Hindu shrines or Buddhist monasteries, but also of the adventurous sports and the serene scenic beauty of the place, which gives one an ultimate peace.Some of the place of interest in Manali are:

Rotang Pass:Almost 51 km by road, on the way is a clear water spring, which is named after Lt. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, is a village which has got brilliant scenic beauty and addition to its beauty, the river Beas flows swiftly through the deep gorge. Almost at an altitude of 2500m is the Rahalla Falls. The Rotang Pass which is almost 3978m in height is a gateway to trans Himalayan Lahaul. It is almost 52 km from Manali. On the way to Rotang Pass is a popular picnic spot called Rani Nala.

Rotang Pass

Hadimba Temple: Which is almost 2 km from Manali was built in 1533 A.D is a four tiered pagoda roof, it is famous for beautiful carved doorway.

Solang Valley: It is the side valley at the top of Kullu valley, on the way to Rotang Pass almost 14 northwest of Manali. This place is famous for both summer and winter sports which includes, parachuting, zorbing, paragliding and skating.

Solang Valley

Vashista temple: There are temple which is dedicated to Lord Rama, and sage Vashista and a very well known hot springs.

Club House: This place gives you an ample facilities which includes roller skating rink, bill boards, library, auditorium,bar, restaurants an they also provide Bungee jumping too.

Monasteries: At Manali, there are three monasteries which are built recently.

As a whole Manali will make a memorable holiday destination.

Munnar Tourism, Munnar Tourist, Munnar Tea Valley

2013-02-17T00:30:00.003-08:00

Munnar, is in Idukki district, which is a part of the Indian state Kerela, is a hill station, which is nested in the Western Ghat, a range of mountains. It is believed that the name Munnar actually mean "three rivers" as this place is the junction of the three rivers, Madhurapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundaly .

Munnar town lies in the lap of Kannan Devan Hills. Devukulam taluk is the village part of Munnar, it is said that in Idukki district, this village is the largest panchayat, almost covering the larger part of the area. .Ernakulam and Aluva are the two nearest major railway stations, which is almost 140km by road. Cochin International Airport is almost 105km away from Munnar is the nearest airport.

Tea Estate, Munnar

Tourist from all over the world is attracted to Munnar due to its natural beauty, this place has got the country's highest tea garden. One will be mesmerized by by the charming beauty of Munnar wherever the eyes moves, one gets to see layers of tea estates all around, with waterfall and misty mountains in the back drop and the wild sanctuaries adds the extra beauty, in one word, it is absolutely eye satisfying.The reason behind the magnetic attraction to Munnar is, the ambitious mountain ranges with dewy peaks, stretched tea estate and composed climate provides some extra serenity to that place.

Another attractive features of Munnar is a wild orchids blooms once in a 12 years which is locally called Neelakurinchi, turns the entire valley violet.

Munnar is the home of many animal species like Grizziled giant squirrel, Nilgiri thar, Nilgiri langur, Nilgiri Wood-pigeon, gaur.

Tourism

So let us start traveling in and around Munnar:

Eravikulam National Park

Almost 15 km away from Munnar is the Eravikulam National Park, is one of the major attraction of Munnar, where endangered species like Nilgiri Thar, rare species of birds, animals butterflies are found. This place is also ideal for trekking. This place is all time favorite destination for the tourist, as it is surrounded by the layers of tea estates, wild orchids, which is a addition to beauty.

Anamudi Peak

One of the highest peak in South India is Anamudi peak which is almost more than 2700 m in height is located inside Eravikulam National Park.One needs to take the permission from Forest and Wildlife authorities at Eravikulam, if any one wishes to trek.

Anamudi Peak

Mattupetty

Almost 13 km away from Munnar is Mattupetty, which is almost 1700m above sea level, is famous for storage mansory dam and also beautiful lakes, where boat rides are available, one will also be able to enjoy the lovely scenic beauty. One will be awestruck to see the lovely green tea plantations and eye satisfying grasslands. Forest Shola is great for trekking.

Chinnakanal

Chinnakanal is near to Munnar is famous for its Power House Waterfalls, which tumbles down the rock and almost 2000 m above sea level. One will also be able to see the wide ranges of Western Ghat.

Top Station

One of the highest point in Munnar Kodaikanal road, which is almost 32 km away from Munnar. This is a must visit place for all the tourist and one will enjoy viewing the orchids, which blooms over a vast area.

Tea Museum

Tea Museum in Munnar is another place of interest, as it has the country's highest tea garden.This Tea Museum has the records of all the photographs of the herbs, machinery from the origin. It is worth to visit the TATA Tea in Munnar, who have opened some years ago..

Mussoorie Tourism, Mussoorie Travel Guide, Mussoorie Hill Station

2013-02-15T21:37:00.002-08:00

Mussoorie known as " Queen of Hills" is a hill station is situated in the foothills of Garwhal Himalayan ranges, located in Uttarakhand in the northern part of India, it is also a municipal board in the district of Dehradun. Mussoorie is almost 290 km north to New Delhi and almost 35 km away from Dehradun, which is the state capital city. Barlowganj and Jharipani are the two townships, Landour, which also includes military cantonment is greater part Mussoorie. Mussoorie is averagely 6,170 feet. Mussoorie was once called dreamland place for tourist as it has that flavor in its atmosphere which includes amazing green hills, with varied of flora and fauna, to the northeast, it has a commanding snow range. One will be mesmerized to see the sparkling view of Shiwalik ranges which is to the south of Mussoorie and the Doon Valley. Lal Tibba is called the highest point in Mussoorie which is almost over 7,510 feet.
The best time for the tourist to visit Mussoorie is between mid March to mid November, but in the monsoon months like from July to September may sometimes be an inhibiting factors, due to downpours.
View of Mussoorie

It can also be said that Mussoorie is considered as the gateway to the Northern India shrines like Yamontri and Gangotri. Dehradun is the closest railway station for Mussoorie. Buses and taxis are always available at regular intervals for Mussoorie, it is well connected by roads to Delhi and other cities too.
Tourism
Mussoorie's economy depends on the tourism industry, people all over the world are attracted to this dream place due to its natural beauty. There is a place called "Camel's Back Road", it is also known as nature walk, the name derived from the road, which has an outcrop from rock, which is the shape of a camel. On the midway of the loop a cemetery is located. The second highest point in Mussoorie is the "GunHill", it is said that previously a sound of a canon used to be heard and that too was for many years, one can easily access this place by car. St. Mary's church is considered as the oldest church in the Himalayans, is on the Mall Road. A nice picnic spot is sited on Kempty Falls. Another favorite destination for the tourist is the "Company Garden", one will be surprised to see the vast collection of flowers and plants. In India, the first Tibetan Temple which was constructed in 1960 by the Tibetan refugees is in Happy Valley. Another great place for tourist is Lal Tibba.
Apart from these places, there are other places of interest, which tourists like to visits are:

Lake Mist: This place is best enough to enjoy in exquisite manner, only 5 km before Kempty Falls, this place is perfect for the picnic spot, where all the facilities are available including restaurants too accommodations, boating is also there in addition to extra enjoyment. The river Kempty which is flowing through adds extra beauty, hence Lake Mist has many waterfalls which are made by this rover. in a word this place can be called a gem of Mussoorie.

Mussoorie Lake: City Board & Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority has built a very new and developed picnic spot, which falls on Mussoorie- Dehradun road, having the facilities of pedaled boats, one will be mesmerized to see the view of lake at night, Doon valley looks absolute outstanding from this place.

Mussoorie Lake

Bhatta Falls: Near Bhatta village almost 7 km away from Mussoorie lies on Mussoorie- Dehradun road, the falls is almost 3 foot in height, there are ponds and other places for amusement.

Bhatta Falls

Cloud end: Surrounded by the thick dense forest , this hotel was actually built by British and is among the first four buildings of Mussoorie, now this is converted into hotel, one will able to see wide varieties of flora and fauna.

Van Chetna Kendra: Established in 1993, this sanctuary is considered as the oldest one, where many extinct birds are spotted. Well in one word we can say, that Mussoorie is a perfect honeymoon destination for couples.

Uttarakhand Tourism, Uttarakhand Travel Guide

2013-02-13T21:02:00.001-08:00

Uttarakhand is one of the state in the northern part of India, was formerly called Uttaranchal, this place is also called the" Land of Gods" as throughout the states, many Hindu temples and pilgrimage centers are found.. Uttarakhand is mainly popular as it has got the natural beauty of the Himalayas, the Bhabhar and the Terai. In the year 2000, on 9th November, this 27th state the Republic India was actually carved out from Himalayan and also the northwest districts of Uttar Pradesh. This state is divide into two parts that is Garwhal and Kumaon and it also has the total of 13 districts. Dehradun is the capital of Uttarakhand. Depending on the place of origin, the natives of this place is called Garwhali and Kumaoni. Uttarakhand is actually called the 19th most populous state in India. Rajputs and Bramhins consists the largest population of the state. Garwhali and Kumaoni are the regional language and Hindi is most spoken language in this state.

Uttarakhand

The main staple food in Uttarakhand is wheat along with it, vegetable is the primary food, although non-vegetarian dishes are also served.One will find use of tomatoes, milk and other dairy based products in Uttarakhand cuisine. Mustard oil and ghee are mostly used in cooking. Another famous food is madua( Buck Wheat) which is mostly famous in the interior parts of Kumaon. Bal Mithai is another popular fudge like sweet, is a must try when one visits there.

Another important part of Hindu pilgrimage is the Kumbha Mela, which is famous in Uttarakhand.

The Himalayas

One can easily say that Uttarakhand is a home of many rare species of animals and plants, they are protected and reserved by national parks and sanctuaries. One of the oldest park is Jim Corbett National park is found here, along with it Valley of Flowers National Park, Nanda Devi National park and others are considered as the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

River Rafting

Uttarakhand gets many tourist from all over the world, as it has got some spots, which is located in the Himalayas. Ganga and Yamuna are considered as the two holy rivers in Hinduism is originated from there.As Uttarakhand is consider as " Land of Gods", Uttarakhand has got many holy Hindu shrines. in the upper reaches of the state, Badrinath and Kedarnath is located.One of the prime Hindu Destination is Haridwar" Gateway to God". A place called Risikesh near Haridwar is also famous, this place is known as preeminent yoga center in India. Haridwar also hosts Kumbha Mela every twelve years, where many tourists participate from all over the world. Uttarakhand is not only a pilgrimage place for Hindus, but also for Sikhs, Hemkund which is in Himalayas. In the southwest of Dehradun, is the world's highest Buddha Stupa named Mindroling Monastery which is symbol of Tibetan Buddhisim .Other famous hill stations in Uttarakhand are Nainital, Mussorie, Landsdown, Almora, Ranikhet, Bhimtal, Kasauni. In the backdrop of snowclad mountain is Vasundhara Falls is near Badrinath. Uttarakhand is also a destination for rock climbing, hiking and mountaineering. In Rishikesh , there is a development in adventurous tourism like whitewater rafting.As this place is almost nested to Himalayas, this place is suitable for rock climbing, mountaineering, rafting and other adventurous sports. Roopkand is also a popular trekking site, where skeletons were found in the lake discovered by National Geographic Channel. One will have to pass through the beautiful meadows of Bugyal, which trekking to Roopkand pass.

Bandel Church

2013-02-12T19:12:00.003-08:00

One of the oldest Christian Churches in West Bengal is the Bandel Church, it stand as one of theprime feature of the Portuguese settlement in West Bengal. The Bandel Church was built around 1660, to dedicate Nossa Senhora de Rosario,who is also known as Our Lady of Rosary.It can be said that in West Bengal, the Bandel Church is one of the most prominent Among all other churches.

Bandel Church

The history says that that almost around 16th century, the Portuguese used Bandel as a port. It is said that Mughal emperor Akbar had given them a permission to built a town in Hooghly, that was around 1571. As they have settled their priest have started to baptize the natives there, it is said that arounf 1598, in Hooghly, the number of Catholics were almost five thousand which included natives and other mixed races.

The Portuguese has built a port and a fort on the banks of the river Hooghly, in the year 1579, and they also listed the service of a band called Augustinian Friars, which was a largest religious body in Goa at that time.the very nest year Captain Pedro Tavares got the full permission from the Mughal emperor, to peach Christianity open publicly and to construct churches, thus The Bandel Church began to construct in the year 1599.

But the old church was burnt down by the Moors during the sacking of Hooghly in the year 1632, the new church was built by Gomez de Soto over the ruin one in 1660.

Kalighat Kali Temple

2013-02-06T08:39:00.000-08:00

Goddess KALI

Kalighat Kali Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, is a Hindu temple is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Kali. Standing on the old course on the bank of the river Hooghly which is also popular also known as Bhagirathi in Kolkata, West Bengal, Kalighat is a ghat which is sacred to Kali. Fromthe word Kalighat, it is said that the name kolkata have been derived, the river has almost drifted away. Now the temple stands on a small canal called Adi Ganga which connects with Hooghly.

In spite of sectarian differences, almost thousands of devotees visit this temple from all parts of the world, they treat Goddess Kali, almost like a human mother, and pray for their domestic problems, and when their wishes are fulfilled they return to this place praying to express the gratitude. This kind of religious attitude toward the Goddess is actually taught and guided by the priests.

The diety of Kalighat temple is different, it does not follow the pattern of other images of Kali in Bengal. This current idol of touchstone has been made by two saints Brahmananda Giri and Atmaram Giri.

Kamkhya Temple

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The Kamakhya Temple is situated on the Nilachal Hill in the western part of the city Guwahati in Assam, India is known as one of the ancient Shakti Peeth. The Kamkhya temple is the main temple, in the complex, where there are also individual temples dedicated to different forms of Mother goddess as Dasa Mahavidya and which also includes Bhuvanesvari, Bagalamukhi, Chinnamasta, Tara and Tripura Sundari. This place is very much important not only for Hindu pilgrims but especially for the Tantrik worshippers.


The Kamakhya Temple

The Kamakhya temple was erected during the first millennium at the time of Kamrupa, it is mentioned in the Allahabad rock inscription of Samudragupta. This temple was destroyed in the second millennium ,the modified temple structure was built by Chilari of the Kochi dynasty, the temple was built in the form of medieval style temples. This new structure has a beehive like shikhara , where there are lovely sculptured panels and images of Ganesh and other Goddess outside.

Goddess Kamakhya

It is said that this temple is an ancient Khasi sacrificial place, here still sacrifices are offered as a part of worshipping. Here still devotees offer goats to Shakti every morning.

An ancient work in Sanskrit called Kalika Purana decribes Kamkhya the younger wife of Shiva as an out turn of all desires and also She is the giver of salvation. Kamakhya is also known as Shakti

Here the modes of worship to the Goddess is both Vamachara (left hand path) and also Dakshinachara (right hand path). Here the offerings are usually flowers but also animals sacrifices are also included. It is said that female animals are accepted.

Dakshineswar Kali Temple

2013-02-05T19:51:00.001-08:00

Dakshineswar Kali Temple is situated on the eastern bank of river Hooghly, is a Hindu temple located in Dakshineswar near Kolkata. This temple was built by Rani Rashmoni in the year 1855, who herself was a devotee of Kali and a philanthropic. The deity which presides in this temple is Bhabatarini, an aspect of Kali. This temple is is also famous as it has got its association with Ramakrishna Paramhansa during the 19th century Bengal.

Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Apart from the nine spired main temple, this temple compound has got a large courtyard surrounding the temple, there are rooms along the boundary walls. Here one will found twelve temples of Shiva. Just at the river front, one will get to see the temple of Radha Krishna, there is a bathing ghat on the river and also a shrine of Rani Rashmoni.. Another attracting feature of this temple is "Nahavat Khana" where ramkrishna is said to have spent a considerable part of his life.

The history of the temple says that this temple was found at the mid of 19th century by Rani Rashmoni.When she was planning to go for a pilgrimage in Benaras. The history says that she was suppose to travel by 24 boats, along with, her relatives would go, servants and other belongings. But the night before the pilgrimage, she had a dream vision in the form of Divine mother, goddess Kali, who reported her in the dream saying that instead of going to Benaras, to install herstatue in the bank of river Ganges and worship her here, she will accept the worship in this place.

The Taj Mahal

2013-02-05T04:29:00.000-08:00

The Taj Mahal is one of the brilliant masterpiece which India posses, made of white marble, this mausoleum is in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. The Taj Mahal is universally recognized as one of the brilliant masterpiece in world heritage. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his loving wife Mumtaz Begum is considered as one of the jewel of Muslim art In India.

The Taj Mahal

The most attracting feature of Taj Mahal is which one will be mesmerized to see that it has a combination of Islamic, Persian, Ottaman Turkish and Indian architectural style and thus it is considered as one of the finest example of Mughal architecture.

The Taj Mahal became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 1983. The white domed marble mausoleum is an integrated complexes of structure is the most familiar component of the Taj Mahal. Thousand of artisans and craftsmen were involved in constructing the Taj Mahal., the construction began in the year 1632 and was completed in the year 1653. Ustad Ahmad Lahauri.is the principal designer of the Taj Mahal.

After Taj Mahal's completion , Shah Jahan was put under house arrest by his son Aurangazeb. After his death he was buried in the mausoleum next to his wife.

Belur Math

2013-02-03T18:46:00.001-08:00

One of the chief disciples of Ramakrishna Paramhansa, Swami Vivekananda founded Belur Math which is known as the head quarters of Ramakrishna Math and Mission. Belur Math is one of the significant place in Calcutta, it is located on the west bank of the river Hooghly in Belur, West Bengal.. This temple is one of the prime symbol of Ramakrishna Movement. One will be amazed to see the structure of the temple which has notable among all, as it has the fusion of Hinduism, Christianity an Islamic culture, it signifies the unity of all religion.

Belur Math

Sri Ramakrishna Temple, this temple was actually designed and was constructed under the supervision of Swami Vivekananda, the architect of this mesmerizing math was swami Vijnanananda, who himself was a great disciples of Ramakrishna Paramhansa. This temple was ordained on 14th January on the very day of Makar Sankranti day in 1938.

Swami Vivekananda Temple stands where Swami Vivekananda mortal was cremated in 1902.It was ordained on 28th of January 1924, the upper part of the temple has an Om (a Bengali character).

Another attraction is the Ramakrishna Museum, where all the things used by Ramakrishna Paramhansa,Swami Vivekananda , Sarada Devi are kept. Like long worm used by Swami Vivekananda during his visit to west, Sister Nivedita's table and organ by Mrs Saveir are all kept, this museum has an active roll during the movement in Bengal in those days.

Kashi Viswanath Temple

2013-02-03T07:56:00.000-08:00

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

One of the most important and famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is Kashi Viswanath Temple is in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. It is said that Hindus once in their life time will visit here and it is also said if possible, they will also try to pour the cremations of their ancestors in Holy river Ganges.This place is possibly considered as one of the holiest existing place among the Hindus,this temple is called as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is considered as one of the holiest Shiva temples.This temple stands on the western banks of the holy Ganges. Here the man deity is called Viswanatha or Vishweshwara .The most amazing factor is this holy town claims to be oldest living city in the world, almost has got the documented history of 3500 years.

In Shiva philosophy from the ancient time this temple is known as the central part of worship, Kashi Viswanath Temple from the very long time is given in Hindu mythology. Another important factor is this temple has been re-constructed many a times. this current structure is built by the Maratha monarch Ahilya Bai Holkar in 1780 and from 1982, this temple is being managed and maintained by the Government of Uttar Pradesh.

This temple is very important in Hindu mythology and many great saints like Ramakrishna Paramhansa, Sri Shankaracharya, Swami Vivekananda, Swami Dayanand Saraswati, Gurunank have visited this holiest existing place.