Travel and Tourism

Assam Travel Guide

2007-08-21T00:46:00.000-07:00

The name "Assam" is derived from the term "Asom" which, in Sanskrit, refers to unequal or unrivalled. The uneven topography of the land, full of hills, plains and rivers might, therefore, have contributed to her name. A land of about 25 million people the principal language of Assam is Assamese although a large number of other languages are spoken.

Assam, the land of hills and valleys, the land of the mighty river Brahmaputra, the land of Mother Goddess Kamakhya, lies in the northeastern corner of India. It is a land where you find flowers that are exquisitely beautiful, animals that are rare, and a beleagured people that are proud and hospitable.

Places to see in Assam:

• Kamakhya Temple
The major attraction of Guwahati is the Kamakhya Temple, on the Nilachal hill, where Goddess Kamakhya is worshiped. The temple offers a fabulous view of the city and the mighty Brahmaputra. The ponds here are the home of some giant turtles.

• Assam State Museum
The museum came into existence in 1940 as a non-government body but was taken over by the state government in 1953. It is the biggest museum of the north east region and one of the biggest multipurpose museums in the country.

• Kaziranga National Park
Home to fabled one horned Rhinoceros. This is also a world heritage site. Besides the above, Umananda Temple, Navagraha Temple, Basistha Ashram, Hajo, Cherrapunjee (where it rains most in the world!), Nmaeri National Park are other major tourist attractions in Assam.

• Zoo-cum-Botanical Garden
The botanical garden was established in 1982, has an area of 82 hectares. It has an orchid house packed with 44 varieties of rare orchids of the North East region. The garden has various types of palm, shrubs, herbs, conifers and broad leaved plants.

• Umananda Temple
It is a temple of Lord Shiva, in the midst of river Brahmaputra, on the island of Umananda. The temple can be reached by crossing the river via country boats plying from Kachari Ghat. The place resembles a beehive during Shiva Ratri when pilgrims from all over flock to the island packed in boats.

• Hajo
Hajo is a sacred place for Hindus, Muslims and Buddhists. This place is to the (25km) west of Guwahati and is the site of the Pua-Mecca mosque, established by an Iraqi prince-turned-preacher, who traveled all the way to Assam in the 12th century to spread the Prophet's teachings.

Festivals in Assam:

Bihu
The most important festivals of Assam are the Bihus, celebrated with joy and abundance by all Assamese people irrespective of caste, creed, religion, faith and belief. This also initiates the agricultural season. The merriments include dances accompanied on the wild and lusty beats of Dhol and Pepa (buffalo hornpipe). Songs sung in this Bihu are woven around themes of love and often carry erotic overtones. People adorn traditional attires like Dhoti, Gamocha and Chadar, Mekhala.

Majuli Festival
There will be a lot of scopes to fit yourself as a part of this festival. Special events are being organized during the festivals days round the clock. Cultural programmes will continue with the participation of various traditional and classical cultural troupes of Assam and troupes from rest of the country, in addition to rich cultural heritage of Majuli.

Tea Festival
The Tea festival organised by Assam Tourism in the month of November is a unique experience. One cannot miss this festival which offers holidays combining visits to Tea Gardens, Golf and River Cruises. A visit to the "Guwahati Tea Auction Center" (GTAC) in Guwahati, the largest in India is a must.

Rongali Utsav
Come April, and for the numerous communities, tribes and sub-tribes inhabiting the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra it's time to welcome the onset of the agricultural season, a celebration of the vibrant springtime fertility cult.

How to get there:

By Air
Indian airlines/Alliance Air, Jet Airways and Air Sahara connect Guwahati with Kolkata, Delhi, Agartala and Imphal. Taxi services including prepaid services are available at the airport for transfer to the city. For travelling to Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya Helicopter Service and Arunachal Pradesh Helicopter Service at Guwahati Airport is available.

By Rail
Express trains link all parts of the country with Guwahati. Rajdhani Express from Delhi (28 hrs), Saraighat Express from Kolkata (18 hrs), Dadar Express from Mumbai (54 hrs) and Bangalore Express (60 hrs) are some of the important trains to Guwahati. Taxis and auto-rickshaws with negotiable rates are available at the station for transfer to different parts of the city.

By Road
Many private travel companies and the Assam State Transport Corporation operate a large network of buses from anywhere around. There are routes connecting Guwahati with Dibrugarh, Jorhat, Tinsukhia, Silchar, Dimapur, Kohima, Imphal, Aizawl and Itanagar.

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Punjab Travel Guide

2007-08-14T04:07:00.000-07:00

A state, whose name is synonymous with exuberance, prosperity and an intense passion for life, Punjab or 'Panj Aab' literally meaning five rivers, is, as it were, the very heart of the country.

Blessed with extremely fertile soil, Punjab is watered by the rivers Beas, Sutlej, Ravi and Ghaggar. Punjab witnessed heavy destruction and damage during Partition, yet, it is one of the most affluent states in the country, today. The per - capita income of the state is nearly twice the all - India average. The mainstay of Punjab's economy, and the source of its affluence is agriculture. Nearly 84 percent of the total geographical area of the state is under cultivation.

Places to see in Punjab:

• Amritsar
Amritsar, the holy city of Sikhs, has grown from a sacred village pond into a spiritual temporal centre of Sikh culture. The city gets its name from the pool-Amritsar (Pool of Nectar), which was constructed by the fourth religious preceptor of the Sikh faith. It also lies on the Asian Highway. It is also the city where Jaliyan-wala-bagh, the garden where scores of innocent Indian men, women, children were massacred by the British. Events of such magnitude catalysed the struggle for Indian independence.

• Patiala
Patiala is famous for its healthy food, loving people, wonderful parandaas, exciting Patiala peg and jootis. Easily accessible and well maintained, Patiala is a place that would give one the much-needed tranquility far from urban chaos. The Sports School and the Moti Bagh Palace are some of the places that one must visit to get a clear picture of the past of the state.

• Chandigarh
Serenity and a city are two diametrically opposite concepts, which however, get belied in the 'City Beautiful'. Chandigarh is a rare epitome of modernization co-existing with nature's preservation. It is here that the trees and plants are as much a part of the construction plans as the buildings and the roads. Thanks to the creative genius of Le Corbusier, the city retains its inherent character even today, as conceived by him in his Master Plan. Corbusier's architectural ingenuity endowed with uniform and standardized structure designs. Wide roads, sector wise divisions, tree-lined avenues, land scaping and a wide piazza, lends the city a special character and a unique orderliness.

• Ludhiana
Ludhiana is famous for its hosiery and woolen goods and products from Ludhiana are exported all over the world. For its production of hosiery, Ludhiana is also known as the Manchester of India. It also boasts of the world famous Punjab Agricultural University, which organizes the Kisan Mela every Year. Nearby is Killa Raipur, which is famous for its Rural Olympics.

Dances of Punjab:

Bhangra
Bhangra celebrates the harvest and is associated with the festival of Baisakhi (April 13) when the sight of tall heaps of golden wheat fill the farmer’s heart with joy. To the accompaniment of large drums called dhols, he and his fellow villagers circle round and round in a leaping, laughing caper. It’s a dance that cuts across all divisions of class and education. At marriages, parties, or celebrations of any sort, it is quite common for men to break out in Bhangra. There are few sights more cheering than that of a dignified elder in three-piece suit getting up to join the young fellows for a moment of bhangra revelry.

Gidda
Women have a different but no less exuberant dance called gidda. The dancers enact verses called bolis, which represent folk poetry at its best. The subject matter of these bolis is wide ranging indeed – everything from arguments with the sister-in-law to political affairs figure in these lively songs. Aside from the drums, the rhythm of this dance is set by the distinctive hand-claps of the dancers.

Jhumar
This dance has originally come from Sandalbar (now in Pakistan), but is now very much a part of Punjab folk heritage. It is a dance of graceful gait, based on specific Jhumar rhythm. Dancers circle around the drummer, and keep up a soft, sibilant chorus as they dance.

How to get there:

By Air
Chandigarh and Amritsar both have airports are connected to other cities in India by regular flights. Indian airlines do have regular flights from Chandigarh to Delhi, Lucknow, Leh, and Amritsar. Jet air also has regular flights to Chandigarh.

By Rail
Punjab is extensively linked to the other parts of the country by rail. Chandigarh, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Pathankot, and Jalandhar are the major railway hubs in the state from where one can take trains for most parts of the country.

By Road
The entire state is connected through an extensive network of medalled roads. State Highways connect major cities to the state capital. NH 1 or the Grand Trunk Road connects the state with most of the north as well as east India.

For more details on Punjab Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Ludhiana Travel Guide

2007-08-13T03:08:00.000-07:00

Ludhiana is situated on the Amritsar-Delhi Grand Trunk Road. New Delhi, Amritsar, Chandigarh and other major cities in Punjab are well linked with Ludhiana through road. The city lies about 305 km northwest of Delhi and is 100 km away from Chandigarh

Ludhiana is on the banks of River Sutlej. in 1481, Ludhiana used to be an insignificant village that was under Yodha, Gupta and Rajput rule for centuries. It was much later during the rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singhji that Ludhiana began developing. In the later years British captured and developed it as it stands today. It has 500-year old Lodhi Fort that was constructed by the Sikander Lodhi when he ruled the plains near River Sutlej.

Places to see in Ludhiana:

• Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum
The foundation of Maharaja Ranjit Singh War museum was laid in 1990. The museum was planned to create general awareness about the defence services, not only for its role in defending the country but also in strengthening the bonds of national integration and unity. The museum, though not yet complete, has regular shows in a light and sound hall. These presentations showcase the stories of bravery of Indian especially Punjabi soldiers in upholding the pride of the motherland.

• Gurudwara Charan Kamal
This Gurudwara situated in village Machhiwara, 35 km from Ludhiana, commemorates the place where Sri Guru Gobind Singh had rested while fighting a guerrilla war against a massive Mughal force.

• Punjab Agricultural University
On the outskirts of the city is the world famous Punjab Agricultural University, which is modelled on the Land Grant of America. The University has a Rural Museum, which houses local arts and crafts and objects belonging to the ancient times. The University also organizes a Kisan Mela every year.

• Shrine of Pir-i-Dastgir
The fort to the north-west of Ludhiana includes the shrine of Pir-I-Dastgir, also known as Abdul Kadir Galani which draws both Hindu and Muslim pilgrims.

Excursions of Ludhiana:

• Macchiwara
In the village Machhiwara about 35 km from Ludhiana is the Gurudwara Charan Kanwal named after the Guru's feet that are compared to the lotus flower. When Aurangzeb's army attacked the fortress of Chamkaur Sahib, Guru Gobind Singh successfully resisted their onslaught and slipped away into the forests of Machhiwara. The Mughal forces got wind of his whereabouts and Guru Gobind was saved by two of his Muslim devotees who disguised him as their Muslim prophet.

• Alamgir
Ten kilometers away from Ludhiana is Alamgir, where the Gurudwara Manji Sahib is situated. It is believed that the two Muslim devotees placed a cot here, in which the Guru was being carried. There is a ten feet deep tank near the Gurudwara where, according to a legend, Guru Gobind Singh shot an arrow into the parched land, which miraculously yielded water.

• Killa Raipur
Twenty kilometres away from Ludhiana is Killa Raipur, which is famous for the Rural Olympics held there. Here, the local population comes to watch the village youth display their sporting skills. The event is held in mid-February.

• Jallandhar
Thirty-four kilometres away from Ludhiana is Jallandhar, the 'Sports City of India'. Jallandhar boasts of many historic monuments. Prominent among them are the mausoleum of Imran Nasir, the fort at Phillaur which once served as Maharaja Ranjit Singh's line of defence against the British, a Shiv Mandir which dates back to the Lodhi era and the Gurdwara at Kartarpur nearby. The Gurdwara was built by the fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjun Dev in 1656.

How to reach Ludhiyana:

By Air
The nearest operational airport from Ludhiana is in the state capital Chandigarh, 100 km away.

By Rail
There are regular trains for New Delhi and Amritsar from Ludhiana Railway Station.

By Road
Ludhiana is situated on the Amritsar-Delhi Grand Trunk Road. New Delhi, Amritsar, Chandigarh and other major cities in Punjab are well linked with Ludhiana through road. The city lies about 305 km northwest of Delhi and is 100 km away from Chandigarh.

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Kottayam Travel Guide

2007-08-07T23:48:00.000-07:00

The name Kottayam is derived from the word "Kotta" which means "Fortress" in Malayalam. The old town of Kottayam was originally founded on the hilltop now known as Kunnumpuram. The small hamlet developed within the walls of the fort and thus was derived the present name from the words "Kottackk Akam" which literally means “Inside the Fortress". It is commonly believed that down the ages this gradually assumed its present form, Kottayam.

Kottayam has the distinction of being the first fully literate town in the whole of India. The first English school was started here by the missionaries of the Church Mission Society of the erstwhile Anglican Church. Kottayam has been a centre of learning and in recognition of this fact the Government established the Mahatma Gandhi University here.

Places to see in Kottayam:

• Bharananganam
An important Christian pilgrimage centre, the town of Bharananganam is known as the site of the internment of Sister Alphonsa (1916 - '46) in a chapel next to the St. Mary's Church. This millenium-old church features an attractive grotto of Virgin Mary.

• Valiyapalli Church
Dedicated to St. Mary, the Valia Palli is a church built in 1550 for the Knanaya Orthodox Syrians situated in Thazhathangadi, 2 km from the centre of the town. It is famous for its 8th century Persian cross and the Pahalavi inscription on the cross.

• Cheryapalli
Located near the Valia Palli, the smaller church of Cheria Palli, also dedicated to St. Mary, built in 1579, has some Murals and paintings of Biblical and other themes.

• Mannanam
Housing the famous St. Joseph's Monastery, Mannanam is an important Syrian Christian centre. The town is associated with the name of Father Kuriakose Elias of Chavara (1805 - 1871), one of the saintly figures of the Syrian Catholic Church of Kerala. Established in 1844, St. Joseph's Press is one of the oldest printing presses in India, where one of the oldest of Kerala's newspapers was printed.

• Thirunakkara Mahadev Temple
The temple built in the indigenous style is situated in the heart of the town of Kottayam. It features several murals and is thronged by a large number of devotees during the annual festival held in the third week of March.

Excursion of Kottayam:

• Vembanad Lake
16 kms from Kottayam town, is a vast network of rivers and canals, which empty into the great expanse of water called the Vemanad Lake, which is situated in Kumarakom village. The lake is an enchanting picnic spot and a fast developing backwater tourist destination. It provides boating, fishing and sight seeing experiences that are truly exhilarating. The Kumarakom tourist village also offers houseboat cruises and holiday packages.

• Ettumanoor Temple
A famous Hindu pilgrimage, Ettumanoor Temple is known for its unique and original architecture, wooden carvings and murals. The one that truly deserves a special mention is a statue of Shiva as Nataraja in a stunning pose. The temple is also famous for its 10 day long annual festival held during February-March.

• Grampi Hill
A great place to relax and unwind, the Grampi hill station is a beautiful place to visit and rest in nature's lap.

• Champakara
18 kms from Kottayam is Champakara, which is an important Ayurvedic Centre for 'Thirummuchikilsa'. Sreerangam CVN Kalari Chikilsa Kendram attracts people from all over India and abroad.

• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Located at a distance of 12 kilometers from Kottayam town, this bird sanctuary is known to be home to local as well as migratory birds.

• Peerumedu
A small hill station located at a height of 914 meters above sea level, Peerumedu derives its name from the famous Sufi saint, Peer Mohammad.

How to get There:

By Air
Nearest Airport is at Cochin, 76 kms away. The Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is 152 kms.

By Rail
Kottayam Railway Station 2 kms. away from the Central Bus Station and is connected with major cities and tourist centres.

By Road
Kottayam is connected to major cities of South India by good motorable roads. There are two bus stations, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation bus station on TB Road and a private bus stand near the railway station. Buses to major centers operate from the KSRTC bus station.

For more details on Kottayam Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Thiruvananthapuram Travel Guide

2007-07-30T23:48:00.000-07:00

Thiruvananthapuram, the city of the snake god , is the capital of Kerala State and is situated at south India. The city is a blend of modern and traditional architecture. Named after the fabled Serpent God 'Anantha' on whom Sri Anantha Padmanabhan (Lord Vishnu) reclines, the city is built on seven hills. Caressed by the Arabian Sea at the west, Thiruvananthapuram is a popular transit destination for Indians and foreigners alike who like to visit south India.

Places to see in Thiruvananthapuram:

• Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple
The imposing seven storied tower makes it the most impressive landmark in the city. The temple is an excellent example of the dravidian style of architecture. There are innumerable pillars, intricate carvings, and mural paintings.

• Kovalam
Kovalam is 12kms to the south of Thiruvananthapuram and is one of the finest beaches in India. It has been developed into an integrated seaside resort. The beach complex has many hotels, cottages, yoga centres etc.

• Sree Chithra Art Gallary
Has a rich collection of paintings of Raja Ravi Varma and Roerich It also has copies of paintings of the Ajanta, Rajput, Mughal and Tanjore Schools besides some works from China, Japa, Tibet and bali.

• Ponmudi
A pleasant resort at an elevation of 912m above sea level. It is 61 kms from Thiruvananthapuram and connected by road. There are many tree and rubber estates around the hills.

• Kowdiar Palace
The home of the late maharaja Sree Chithira Thirunal Bala Rama varma and his family is off limits to visitors but you can have a glimpse from the main gate. If a friendly guard is on duty, he will let you walk a bit inside the grounds where you can get a view of the grand old building at the end of its long drive.

• The Kanakakunnu Palace
This palace in the heart of Trivandrum city is one of the most beautiful buildings. The palace and its sprawling grounds are today the venue for many cultural meets. The Museum The museum building is an architectural splendour. The napier museum, the natural history museum, the reptile house and the Shri Chitra Art Gallery are in the same complex amidst a well laid out garden and park.

• Kuthira Malika
Puthen Malika is also known as Kuthira Malika. This palace was built during the time of H.H Maharaja Swathi Thirunal the king of Travncore who was also a great poet and musician. This palace has wood carvings in the traditional Travancore style. The museum presently displays various painting collections of the royal family.

• Varkala
A pilgrim centre for the devotees of Sree Narayana Guru, one of the patron saints of Kerala, whose motto was "One God, One Religion, One Caste". It is only 51kms from Trivandrum by road and also boasts of one of the best beaches in the State.

Fairs and Festivals in Thiruvananthapuram:

The Great Elephant Race
Though strictly not a local festival, the conclusion of it is in Thiruvananthapuram. It is a four daylong extravaganza arranged by the tourism department of Kerala. 101 caparisoned elephants march from Thrissur on the 17th of every January reaching Thiruvananthapuram on the fourth day with stop overs at Kochi and Alappuzha. Boat races and folk art performances are arranged during this period where tourists can have glimpses of Kerala culture. The festival is concluded on the fourth day at Kovalam Beach with cultural programs and seaside barbecue.

Nishagandhi Dance Festival
The Tourism Development Corporation organises the dance festival. Leading artists of Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kathak, Odissi, Modern ballet and other folk form will perform at the open-air theatre of Nishagandhi in the Kanakakunnu Palace compound. Admission is free and the festival usually is accompanied with music.

Vetta and Arattu
This festival is celebrated twice in a year, once in Oct.-Nov and other in March-April. Vetta represents Lord Vishnu hunting down the demon of evil in the forest. The next day afternoon the Arattu procession begins. Images of Lord Padmanabha, Lord Krishna and Lord Narasimha are carried to the Arabian Sea at Sangumugham beach escorted by the members of the Royal Family. At sunset the images are ritually bathed in the sea. Returning the images in a procession back to the Padmanabhaswamy temple concludes the event. Several cultural programs including all-night Kathakali are performed during the festival.

How to get there:

By Air
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (6 kms. from the city) has air links with convenient connections to Maldives, Sri Lanka and many countries to the West of Arabian Sea and other important ports. Indian Airlines and Jet Airways operate domestic flights to different parts of the country.

By Rail
Thiruvananthapuram is an important railway terminus on the southwestern coast with train services from all parts of the country, including the southernmost tip of the subcontinent, Kanyakumari (Cape Comorin).

By Road
Motorable roads link Thiruvananthapuram to several important tourist and business centers in India. The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation operates bus services of various classes.

Find more details on Thiruvananthapuram Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Shirdi Travel Guide

2007-07-23T04:08:00.000-07:00

The abode of the great saint of the 20th century, Sai Baba, who lived in Shirdi for more than 50 years of his life, has made this small village in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra a big pilgrimage site for the devotees of the saint from all around the world.

The story of Sai Baba entering this small village is unique enough, the way his miracles were. He came to Shirdi along with a marriage party and then stayed back. He was denied entry into a temple by a priest taking him to be a Muslim from his dress. So throughout his life the saint stayed in the Mosque of Shirdi.

The small place which is barely a 100 km from Nashik today is a bustling pilgrimage centre of India. Nearly every nook and corner of the small village has some affiliation with the great saint. Even today the last few surviving elders of the village vividly recall the miraculous wonders of the sage. Sai Baba left for the heavenly abode in 1918 and his Samadhi is visited by thousands daily.

Places to see in Shirdi:

• Samadhi Mandir
Samadhi Mandir of Shri Sai Baba was actually owned by a millionaire from Nagpur and a famous Sai devotee Shreemant Gopalrao. He wanted to keep an idol of Murlidhar here. However, according to the legends, Baba himself became Murlidhar and the temple became the Samadhi Mandir of Baba. The Samadhi of Baba is built with white marble stones. The railings around it are full of ornamental decorations. The idol of Baba is a marvelous statue made up of Italian marble built by Late Balaji Vasant in 1954.

• Shri Khandoba Mandir
This place is near Shri Sainath Hospital. Baba stepped here in Shirdi at the foot of banyan tree near Khandoba Temple along with Chand Patil's wife's Nephew's Marriage party. The then Pujari Mhalsapati welcomed Him by calling "Aao Sai."

• Dwarkamai
Situated on the right side of the entrance of the Samadhi Mandir is Dwarkamai, a mosque. This was the place where the sage stayed until the end of his life. Main attraction of the site is the oil paintings of the sage.

• Shri Gurusthan Mandir
This is the place where Baba first appeared to the world as boy of 16 years and this place is supposed to be Baba's Gurusthan. The famous Margosa (Neem) tree is here which has a reference in "Sai Sat-Charitra". It is an experience of devotees that there aliments are cured by burning incense hear.

• Lendi Baug / Datta Mandir
This is the place where Shri Sai Baba used to go for stroll. Nandadeep is kept constantly burning near the Pimple tree planted by Shri Sai Baba himself. There is also Datta Mandir in this garden and Shri Sai Baba's beloved horse 'Shamkarna' (Sham Sundar) is taking Eternal rest here. There is also a well here called as 'Baba's Shivdi'.

• Maruti Mandir
There is a Maruti Mandir located at some distance from the cottage of Abdul Baba. This mandir was visited by Baba for the sat-sang with Devidas, a Bal yogi, who lived at the Mandir ten to twelve years before Baba arrived. There are also temples of village deities named Shani, Ganapati, and Shankar that are worth visiting.

Festivals in Shirdi:

Ramnavami
Ramnavami is one of the most important festivals celebrated with great excitement and fanfare. In the year 1897 Goplarao Gund proposed holding in Urus in name of Saibaba in gratitude of a child which he was granted after so many childless years. Saibaba conceded to celebrate his urus on the condition that it is celebrated on Ramnavami. This was indeed an ingenious touch of Saibaba bringing together the Hindus and Muslims together. People may know Urus is a Muslim festival that is celebrated to honor a saint.

Gurupurnima
Gurupurnima or Full Moon is also a wonderful time to visit Shirdi. It is the time to honor the Guru and seek his special blessing. Quite a significant festival in Shirdi Guru Purnima was the only festival which Saibaba has asked his devotees to celebrate. This is the time devotees all across the world converge in Shirdi to seek Saibaba's blessings.

Shirdi Vijayadashmi
Vijayadashmi is a big festival in Shirdi, venerated as a holy day when Shri Saibaba left his mortal body for heavenly abode. The festival is also celebrated as Shri Sai Punyathithi in Shirdi attracting great number of devotees from all over the world. Various religious activities are arranged Great number of people flock to Shirdi during this Festival.

How to Get There:

Air
The nearest airports are Mumbai (260 kms), Pune (185 kms) and Aurangabad (125 kms).

Train
The nearest railway station is Manmad (60 kms) on the Central Railway, which is connected to many parts of the country with Express trains.

Road
Shirdi is very well connected by a network of roads and road transport to all major towns of Maharashtra and surrounding areas.

For more details on Shirdi Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Aurangabad Travel Guide

2007-07-17T03:24:00.000-07:00

Aurangabad is one of the oldest cities in Maharashtra with a cultural heritage that includes, the Ajanta - Ellora caves and Daulatabad Fort. The town is named after Aurangzeb, the last Mughal emperor, and has many places to see, admire and know about. The most famous trip that should be taken from Aurangabad is that of the Ajanta and Ellora caves. Several fine Mughal monuments surround Aurangabad, including Aurangazeb's mausoleum for his wife, the 'Bibi-ka-Maqbara' resembling Taj Mahal.

Aurangabad has been a place of great importance due to it’s location on the famous "Silk Route" that traversed across the breadth of Asia to reach Europe. Textiles, embroidered finery and various kinds of beads made in nearby Paithan were exported to the markets of Greece, Rome and Egypt.

Places to see in Aurangabad:

• Bibi-Ka-Maqbara
Bibi-ka-Maqbara was built by Aurangzeb in the memory of his wife Rabia-ud-Daurani Begum. This tomb bears some resemblance with the Taj Mahal, which is a major attraction for tourists coming to this place. The architecture of this tomb is magnificent which is surrounded by a garden. You will have to buy an entry ticket of a negligible amount to enter the Maqbara.

• Aurangabad Caves
The Aurangabad Caves were built during the 6th and 7th centuries. The walls of the caves have interesting illustrations from the Jataka stories. Lying amidst the hills are 12 Buddhist caves possibly dating back to the 1st century AD. The Tantric influences evident in the iconography and architectural designs of the caves are of particular interest. Some of the chaityas are constructed on a mandala plan for the circumambulation of the Buddha who is depicted here seated on an intricately carved throne.

• Panchakki
Panchakki, meaning water mill is another major attraction of Aurangabad. The mill gets its share of water that travels through an underground channel from a source which is 6 km away in the mountains. The water is released on to the wheel creating an enthralling waterfall.

• Jama Masjid
The Jama Masjid at Aurangabad was built by Aurangzeb. It situated in the center of a grove of trees in Killa Arrack. The Masjid has a low building with minarets and a broad band. This broad band is carved with Koranic inscriptions written through the length of the facade.

• Himroo Factory
The Himroo Factory is another major tourist attraction of Aurangabad. The traditional Himroo fabric which is an amazing blend of cotton and silk is known for its quality. You can also find here Paithani saris, traditional handloom shawls and other textiles material of Himroo fabric and silver threads.

Excursion of Aurangabad:

Ajanta Caves
The world heritage Ajanta caves are one of the few historical and architectural marvels of India. It was discovered accidentally during the 19th century by a group of British officers who were on a tiger hunt. These caves are located deep within the Sahyadri hills above the Waghora.

Ellora Caves
The Ellora cave temples are regarded as the World heritage sites of India. They are situated just 30 kilometers northwest of Aurangabad. It can be easily reached from the nearby major towns. There are almost 34 monasteries and temples that date back from 600 to 1000 AD. The temples of Ellora are dedicated to Brahmanism, Jainism, and Buddhism. The cave temples here have some superior carvings on the stone depicting the legends related to Lord Shiva.

Daulatabad Fort
The exquisite Daulatabad fort is located just 13 kilometers from Aurangabad on the way to Ellora, makes an excellent travel excursion from Aurangabad. The fort was built during the 12th century by king Bhillama of Yadav dynasty. It is situated on a pyramid shaped hill making it a major attraction here.

Fair and Festivals in Aurangabad:

Buddha Jayanti
Buddha Jayanti is celebrated with great zeal here. Mass prayers are offered in community halls and public places and procession with floates are taken around the city.

Khultabad Urs
Rabi-Ul-Awal. For five days each year, during the month of Rabi-Ul-Awal, Muslims gather at the tomb of Khawaja. Muntajabuddin at Khultabad to pay homage to the hallowed saint.

How to get there:

By Air
Aurangabad airport is situated 10 km east of the city. Both Indian Airlines and Jet Airways have a daily flight to Mumbai (Bombay).

By Rail
Aurangabad can be easily approached by rail from Hyderabad, Secunderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi. There are regular trains available on South Central Railway to reach Aurangabad.

By Road
Aurangabad is well connected with major cities of the state by a good network of roadways. The distances for some of the major cities from Aurangabad are Pune (214 km), Nasik (218 km), Indore (402 km) and Mumbai (403 km).

For more details on Aurangabad Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Mangalore Travel Guide

2007-07-16T04:02:00.000-07:00

Mangalore, a beautiful scenic city with lush green surroundings add to the peaceful nature of the City. In the coastal region of the western part of the land of India is situated the harbour town of Mangalapuram, or the city of Mangalore. The eternally blessed is the land of enchantment of Sahyadri mountains, where the great sages Kanva, Vysa, Vashista, Vishwamitra and other in the Loral past spent their days of meditation. Bountiful rivers meandering down the mountains and the nature is clothed in all her lush-full greenery.

Narrow winding streets, lofty coconut trees, quaint gable-roofed houses, beautiful beaches, temples and churches, the heady fragrance of the Mangalore Mallige, the aroma of spicy coconut curries, all this and more makes Mangalore a city of vivid contrasts.

Places to see in Mangalore:

Sultan Battery
It is situated in Boloor 6 Km. away from Mangalore City Bus Stand. It was built in Black Stones by Tippu Sulthan to prevent warships to enter Gurpur river. Now the remaining part of the fort is called as Tippu's Well. It is today a deserted spot but its construction is bafflingly exquisite. Although it is a watchtower, it gives the impression of a miniature fortress with its arrangements for mounting cannons all-round.

Kadri Manjunath Temple:
Kadri is another ancient historic spot in Mangalore. The Kadri Temple dating back to about 1068 A.D. with its nine tanks, its square temple, nestling at thefoot of the highest hill, draws to Mangalore hundreds of visitors annually. The Lokeshwara bronze statue of the Kadri Manjunatha Temple is tipped to be the best bronze statue in India. On top of the hill King Kundavarma Bupendra built a mutt which came to be called 'Jogimutt'.

There are some stone caves on top of the hill which are known as the caves of the Pandavas It is situated 4 Km. away from Nehru Maidan Bus Stand. The idol of Lord Manjunathaswamy of the temple is called as oldest of the South Indian Temples. The seven sacred ponds, Jogi Mutt and caves of Pandavas are the pilgrim attractions here.

Aloysius Church It is situated 1 Km. away from Nehru Maidan Bus stand. The walls of the church are covered with the paintings of the artist Antony Moshaini of Italy. The Church was built in the year 1899-1900. St. Aloysius College Chapel, an architectural gem, comparable with the Sistine chapel in Rome, is situated on lighthouse hill. The special beauty of the chapel is the wonderful series of paintings that virtually cover every inch of the interior roof and walls executed by Bro. Moscheni trained in Italy.

Light House Hill-Garden: It is situated 1 Km. away from Bus Stand. One can see the beautiful sea view, sunset view and also the sailing ships and boats on the sea. Now the renovated garden looks more beautiful.

Mangaladevi TempleThe temple is situated 3 Km. away from main City Bus stand. This city is called as Mangalore just because of this temple. This temple was built by the Ballal family of Attavar in memory of a Princess of Kerala

Ullal:Known for the "Uroos Fair". This is one the main mosques in the region. Built in 1958, thousands of people from various states visit the mosque to participate in the Uroos festival which is celebrated once in every five years.

How to get there

By Air
The Air port at Bajpe, just 16 kms from Mangalore city could connect the district with other major cities and other countries. Major airways services have been flying here. There is new Mangalore Port Trust that has been helping the people here for the transport of goods to and from Mangalore.

By Train
The Konkan Railways, Kerala -Mangalore Railways and Hassan Mangalore Railways are the major railway services here. Though Hassan Mangalore service has been detained due to up gradation work, Konkan Railway and Kerala Mangalore Railway is providing good service to the both public and for transportation of goods.

By Road
The district is well connected to other places by road, railways, air and even through water. The district has developed very good transport system as both Government and Private bus services have been flourishing here. All nooks and corners of the district could be reached by bus. The district is passed through NH 48 and NH 17 and this connects the district to other major towns in the country. Other state routes and special bus services make the public life lively here.

For more details on Mangalore Travel Guide visit www.times2travel.com

Kashmir Travel Guide

2007-07-10T00:06:00.000-07:00

A jewel glittering atop India, Jammu and Kashmir is one of the most beautiful destinations in India. Often referred to as the 'Switzerland of India', it is the northern extreme of the country. Home to mighty mountains and lovely glades and forests, the region is bestowed with abundant of natural beauty overflowing from everywhere. Ruled by a Maharaja Hari Singh in the past, Jammu & Kashmir is made up of many regions but is called Jammu & Kashmir because the two most populous regions in the state are called Jammu and Kashmir.
Tourist Attraction in Kashmir:

• Amar Mahal Museum
Set in a picturesque setting of Himalayas, Amar Mahal Museum and Library, is an epitome of royal grandeur and magnificence. It is a repository of books and paintings and attracts art lovers and historians from all over the world. The museum building forms the major part of the majestic Amar Palace, which has a French touch in its architectural style.

• Gulmarg
The meadow of Flowers is a world famous tourist spot in the Baramulla Distt of Kashmir. The altitude of Gulmarg is 2730 meters. surrounded by dense forests of tall conifers, Gulmarg is known for unparalled beauty nad is rated as one of the matchless tourist spots of the world. It is famous for Golf hikes and boasts of a beautiful highland golf course. It is premier resort for winter sports in the country.

• Hari Parbat Fort
The Mughal fort situated on the banks of the Dal Lake of Srinagar, it is positioned on top of the Sharika Hill. Originally, it was built during the reign of Akbar but its present structure owes itself to the Afghan governor of Kashmir in the 18th century. It has a Parvati temple on the western slope and the Muslim shrines of Khwaja Makhdoom Sahib and Akhund Mullah Shah on the southern one.

• Srinagar
Srinagar is located in the western part of the State of Jammu and Kashmir and is famous for its lakes and the charming rows of houseboats floating on them. It is also known for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and dry fruits. The Mughal Gardens are an important tourist attraction. The best time when tourists can seize an opportunity to travel to Srinagar is from June to early November to enjoy the extended summer and from December to February in winter.

• Hazratbal Shrine
The Hazratbal Shrine, which is situated on the left bank of the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar. This unmatched reverence is anchored in the love and respect for the Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him), whose Moi-e-Muqqadas, (the sacred hair) is preserved here.

• Pahalgam
The Pahalgam valley is situated at the confluence of the Seshnag Lake and the Lidder River. Pahalgam is associated with the annual Amaranth yatra. The region is extremely popular among tourists for its outdoor activities like fishing, horse riding, golf and trekking. Tours and travel to Pahalgam usually offer opportunities for outdoor activities.

Excursion of Kashmir:

Achabal
Achabal is situated at a distance of 58 km from the district of Srinagar. Reached via Anantnag, Achabal served as the pleasure retreat of the Mughal Empress Nur Jehan. Situated at a height of 1,677 m, Achabal is a visual treat for the eyes. Achabal is adorned with one of the best Mughal Gardens in India. The beautifully laid out garden in the Mughal (Persian) style sparkles with a charm and character, which is quite unique to it.

Kokernag
Situated at a height of 2,020 m, Kokernag is approximately 70 km from the district of Srinagar. Blooming gardens surround this spring, which bubbles at seven places at the foot of the forested mountain. The water of Kokernag in Kashmir is believed to have medicinal and digestive properties.

Wullar Lake
Wullar Lake is approximately 60 km from the city of Srinagar, between the towns of Bandipore and Sopore. Spreading over an area of 125 km, Wular Lake is said to be one of the largest fresh water lakes in Asia. The Wular Lake of Kashmir changes character after every few miles of its course. The lake serves as a natural flood reservoir for Jhelum River, draining off the excess water.

Yusmarg
Yusmarg is approximately 47 km from the Srinagar and lies in the Badgam district of Jammu and Kashmir. The two-hour drive to the place is an enjoyment in itself. Grassy pastures stretching to acres of land, the dense forests full of pine trees, with the backdrop of splendid snow capped mountains leave you almost speechless.

How to get there:

By Air
Srinagar airport is approximately 14 km from the city. There are daily flights to Srinagar, operated by Indian Airlines (from Delhi, Mumbai and Jammu) and Jet Airways (from Delhi and Jammu).

By Rail
Jammu Tawi, approximately 305 km far, is the nearest railhead for Srinagar. Trains from Delhi, Calcutta, Pune, Mumbai and other cities arrive at this station only. During holiday season, when there is a heavy rush for Kashmir, additional trains operate for and from this station.

By Road
National Highway 1-A is the main highway connecting Srinagar with Jammu. J&K State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) as well as a number of private Super deluxe, A-class and B-class busses operate to and from the state. Private taxis are also available for traveling to Kashmir.

For more details on Kashmir Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Jammu Travel Guide

2007-07-04T23:39:00.000-07:00

Jammu district derives its name from the city of Jammu which besides being the winter capital of the state, is known as the city of temples. It is believed that the city was originally founded by Raja Jamboo Lochan, which came to be known as "Jamboo" after his own name. With the passage of time and due to its frequent use the pronunciation of the name got slightly distorted and the city, came to be known as 'Jammu' as it is called now.

Jammu is a land of grand ancient temples, and beautiful palaces. All nestling in the foothills of the Himalayas, Jammu is justly famous for its temples. In fact it is known as the city of temples and the every fame of it tends to overshadow its palaces, forts, forests and powerful ziarats. Besides, Jammu is also a paradise to those who love - trekking, skiing, and Aero-sports.

Tourist Attraction in Jammu:

• Raghunath Temple
This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is surrounded by a group of other temples, dedicated to various Hindu deities from the epic Ramayana. The inner walls of the main temple are covered with gold sheet on three sides. There are many galleries with innumerable saligrams".

• Ranbir Canal
Ranbir Canal is situated approximately two km from the center of the city. The canal is famous for a small garden that serves as a perfect picnic spot during summers. The water of the canal remains icy cold throughout the year. The embankments of Ranbir Canal serve as good viewpoints and pathways.

• Bahu Fort
One of the popular tourist spots for sightseeing in Jammu is Bahu Fort, situated on the left bank of Tawi River. Perhaps the oldest fort and the oldest structure in the city, it was originally constructed by King Bahulochan over 3,000 years ago. Later, the fort was renovated and rebuilt by the Dogra rulers. Surrounding the fort are extensive gardens known as Bagh-e-Bahu. The fort also houses a temple of Goddess Kali.

• Dera Baba Banda
This historical place is situated on the bank of Mighty River Chinab (Chanderbhaga). Baba Banda Bahadur was a great soldier during Emperor Aurangjebps time, who fought against Mughals and became a great disciple of Shri. Guru Govind Singh Ji Maharaj. Visitors from various parts assemble there on the eve of Baisakhi festival.

• Mubarak Mandi Palace
Mubarak Mandi Palace is a fusion of Rajasthani, Mughal and even Baroque European architecture. The oldest structure in this palace complex dates back to 1824. The Pink Hall of the palace has now been converted into a museum, known as the Dogra Art Museum. It houses beautiful miniature painting of the various Hill Schools. But, the most magnificent structure inside the palace complex is the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace).

Excursion of Jammu:

Patnitop
Patnitops Is the most popular tourist spot of Jammu region. Located 112 kms from Jammu this famous hill resort is perched on a beautiful plateau, at an altitude of 2024 metres across which the Jammu-Srinagar Highway passes. It has lush green meadow and pine trees which resembles with Gulmarg. Patnitop offers beautiful picnic spots, peaceful walks and breathtaking views of the mountains cape of the Chenab basin. In winter, it is covered with a white carpet of snow and its slopes have been successfully experimented for skiing. Skiing courses are conducted at Patnitop in the months of January and February.

Sanasar
129 Kms.from Jammu and only 19 Kms. from patnitop is Sanasar (2079 m), a satellite resort of Patnitop, with a cup-shaped meadow surrounded by gigantic conifers. A place for a quiet holiday, the meadow has now been developed as a golf course. There are several walks in the surrounding hills. The resort itself is ideal for paragliding, which is being promoted by the
Tourism Department.

Mansar Lake
Mansar Lake located 62 Kms. from Jammu is a beautiful lake fringed by forest-covered hills. Boating facilities are available in the spot. Every year around Baisakhi, a food and crafts festival is organised here by J&K Tourism.

How to get there:

Air
Jammu is well connected to the rest of India by air. Both Indian Airlines and Jet Airways operate daily flights to Jammu. The average flying time from New Delhi is about 80 minutes.

Rail
One can also reach Jammu by rail. Jammu is connected to other parts of country on broad gauge and numerous passenger trains ply from various parts of the country to Jammu.

Road
Jammu is well connected through road also to rest of India. National Highway No. 1A passes through Jammu towards Srinagar. Regular bus services from all major North Indian cities are available for Jammu as well as Katra. Many standard and deluxe buses of various State Road Transport Corporations as well as private operators connect Jammu with important cities and towns of North India.

For more details on Jammu Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Vadodra Travel Guide

2007-06-26T04:31:00.000-07:00

Vadodra (Baroda), the City of Palaces has often been called the cultural capital of Gujarat and is filled with relics of it’s princely past. It is also one of the corporate capitals with IPCL, ONGC and other major industries. There are numerous national and multi-national projects also coming up.
Situated on the banks of the river Vishwamitri Vadodra (Baroda) is the capital city of the erstwhile Gaekwad rulers and is also known as the garden city of Gujarat. Baroda is the western derivative of the term; 'Vadodra' meaning 'City of Banyan Trees'. It is an important cultural center of India, known for its art galleries and museums. Vadodra is located in the eastern part of the state of Gujarat and is a pleasant, medium sized city.

Places of Tourist Interest in Vadodra:

• Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery
Founded by the Gaekwad in 1894, it has impressive collections of art and archeology, natural history, geology and ethnology. It has an excellent collection of art objects and paintings, including the famous Akota bronzes dating from 5th Century A.D. Other treasures include a full-fledged gallery of Tibetan Art. Visit Maqbara, which is the oldest Mughal monument in the town.

• Khanderao Market
This is a palatial building erected by Sayaji Rao in 1906-07 at a cost of about Rs. 5 lakhs. It was presented by him as a gift to the Municipality on the occasion of the Silver Jubilee Celebrations of his administration. The Municipal Offices are located in this building. The main entrance resembles in architecture with that of the gate of Dabhoi Fort. The perforated stone prepares are after style of the Agra Screens.

• Maharaja Fatehsingh Museum
The museum has the royal collection of art treasures and works of old masters like Raphael, Titian and Murillo as well as modern western and Indian paintings, Graeco-Roman exhibits, Chinese and Japanese art, and a large collection of contemporary Indian art.

• EME Temple
Unique in concept and design, the EME Temple is a geodesic structure covered with aluminium sheets. Run entirely by the army authorities, this temple is a major attraction for both tourist and devotees.

• Laxmi Vilas Palace
The Royal Family's residence is an extravagant building in Indo- Saracenic style. The palace built by Maharaja Sayajirao in 1890 is till date the residence of the royal family. Its ornate Darbar Hall has an Italian mosaic floor and walls with mosaic decorations. The palace houses a remarkable collection of old armoury and sculptures in bronze, marble & terracotta.

• Sayaji Sarovar
The Sayaji Sarovar or Ajwa lake, 22 kms away from the city is the principal source of water. It is formed by damming the Surya river and Vaghali Nala. Work on the scheme was started in 1885 and was completed in 1890. The gardens at Ajwa are patterned after the famous Brindavan Gardens of Mysore. The illumination of fountains is a major attraction for tourists.

• Darbar Hall
Considered as one of the most famous museums of the country it was built in 1894. The picture gallery which offers an excellent collection of originals by famous British painters Turner and constable and many others attract tourists from every part of the country. The Egyptian mummy and skeleton of a blue whale are major attractions for those who visit the museum. Other treasure includes the famous Akota bronzes dating the 5th Century A.D., A collection of Mughal miniatures, a full fledged gallery of Tibetan Art and oils by several European masters.

Excursion of Vadodra:

Kayavarohan
Popularly known as Karvan, it is situated on National Highway No. 8. It is both a place of pilgrimage and a picnic spot. A beautiful Shiv Temple built recently houses an attractive idol of Lakulish. Ancient sculptures and relics belonging to the 2nd century have been excavated from this historical place.

Pavagadh
A mountainous place with the historical town of Champaner nearby. The town has beautiful mosques Juma Masjid and Shah-ki-Masjid built in early Mohamedan Era. It is 50 kms away from Baroda and accessible by bus and train.

Shukaltirth
Legend surrounds the Vishnu temple here on the banks of the river Narmada. A fair is held every November in this pilgrim center, which is 89 km from Baroda.

How to get there:

By Air
You can get into Vadodra on a domestic flight, and it is reasonably connected to the rest of the country by domestic airlines like Indian airlines and Jet airways. The nearest international airport is about 100 km away in Ahmedabad.

By Train
At Vadodra railway station you can get on and off both super fast and premium trains like Shatabdi and Rajdhani express, as well as travel the humble passenger trains. It is well connected to the other parts of the country.

By Road
Vadodra is 112 kms. from Ahmedabad and 420 kms. from Mumbai.

For more details on Vadodra Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Visakhapatnam Travel Guide

2007-06-21T23:10:00.000-07:00

The city derives its name from God Visakha, or the God of Courage. The earliest documented history the city states that it was ruled by the mighty King Ashoka, but was sacked by one dynasty after another during the course of history.

The land of the golden beaches was just over half a century ago a small fishing village. One would be amazed at the manner in which this port city with a natural harbour developed into one of the fastest growing cities in Asia.

Travel to Vishakhapatnam, also known as "Vizag" and is enclosed by three hills. Each of these hills has a shrine belonging to different religions. The Venkateswara temple on Venkateswara Konda is a Hindu shrine, Baba Ishaq Madina Dargah on Dargah Konda is a Muslim Shrine and Church of the Virgin Mary on Rose hill is a Christian shrine.

Places to see in Vishakhapatnam:

• Dolphin's Nose
The Dolphin's Nose is a massive rock with an height of 357 m. It was named after its shape that is similar to a Dolphin's nose. This huge rock emerges out of the sea forming an elevation which also has a lighthouse. It is a major travel attraction at Vishakhapatnam.

• Ross Hill
A unique site to see is the area around Ross hill which has three hills dedicated to three different faiths in proximity to the port. Ross Hill, named after a certain Monsieur Ross who built a house on it in 1864, it has now been converted into a chapel Mother Mary's Church.

• The Araku valley
The Araku valley, located on the Anatagiri hills at a height of 1,161 m from Sea Level is the place with the best natural scenery and greenery can be found. The Valley is located 112-Km from Vishakhapatnam and has Waterfalls and streams, which give a pleasant feeling to the mind. The 17 tribes living in this valley wear colourful dresses and costumes and were untouched with modern civilizations. Their rhythmic songs and tribal dances, the Dhimsa dance in particular are just marvelous. The valley has Cottages and Resorts for tourists who visit here on a weeklong trip.

• Kailasa Giri
Ropeway Terminal A local favorite, a short ride on to this hill gives you a spectacular view of the sea, RK.Beach and Rushikonda Beach on right and left hand side. There is a huge sculpture of Shiva and Parvathi. With a children's play area, a people-mover akin to a ski lift called a ropeway. Beautiful scenic view can be obtained from the ropeway, specially in the evening, when the city comes alive with all the lights.

• The Submarine Museum
Kurusura Vishakhapatnam has another Golden leaf in its feather and this Golden leaf has its specialty. The Submarine Museum - Kurusura being set up at the Rama Krishna Beach in Vishakhapatnam has a specialty. The Submarine Museum was the first submarine tuned to a museum in the whole of Asia. INS Kusura is a Russian built submarine. It was built on Dec 18th 1969 and began its journey on Feb 20, 1970 via the Baltic Sea and reached Vishakhapatnam on the 11th of May 1970. Since then INS Kusura was being used by the Indian Defence.

• Ramakrishna Beach
Kali Temple at R.K. Beach is the most popular beach in the sense that, you can find the locals hanging out during the hot summers, and relatively less hot winters. On weekends and holidays, one can see that the entire beach comes alive, but not in a western sense where people take a plunge in the water, or surf. You can see people dressed in their best clothes, just sitting on the benches, or walking along.

• Vizag harbour
Vizag harbour is one of the natural harbors in the world. A temple, mosque and church are located on hills overlooking the harbour. The Vizag beaches, particularly the Ramakrishna Beach, are lovely and serene. The beaches are ideal for swimming and water sports. On the north of Vizag is this pretty cove, Lawson's Bay, ideal for swimming. Old Dutch museum and the drive to Bheemli are also very enjoyable.

Excursions of Vishakhapatnam:

Bheemunipatnam
Bheemunipatnam is situated about 25-km from Vishakhapatnam. It is famous for its beautiful beach located along the east coast.

Simhachalam
The Simhachalam is situated about 16-km from Vishakhapatnam. The travel attraction of this place is a famous ancient temple of Sri Varaha Lakshminarasimha. This temple is known for its excellent architecture.

Borra Caves
The Borra caves situated at a distance of about 90-95-km from Vishakhapatnam is
an important tourist attraction. It is famous for its historical and religious significance.

How to get there:

By Air
Indian Airlines, Air Deccan, King Fisher and Sahara operate daily flights to Vizag from Hyderabad and Mumbai. Flights from and to Chennai and New Delhi are available 4 times a week (Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun).

By Train
Vishakhapatnam is on Kolkata-Chennai main line and is connected to both the cities by train. This being a major station, all trains including the super fast expresses have a stop in the station.

By Road
Vishakhapatnam is 650 km from Hyderabad and 350 km from Vijayawada. Regular bus services are available to Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Bhubaneswar, Chennai and Tirupati.

For more details on Vishakhapatnam Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Vijayawada Travel Guide

2007-06-18T00:33:00.000-07:00

Vijayawada is known as the political as well as publishing capital of andhra Pradesh. Vijayawada is a vital rail and road link between North and the South and is now known as 'the city that never sleeps'.

Vijayawada, also called as "Bezawada", is 257-km from Hyderabad and is located on the banks of the Krishna River, and is bounded by the Indrakiladri hills on the West and the Budameru River on the North. Situated along the Chennai - Howrah and Chennai-Delhi rail route, this is the largest railway junction of the South Central Railway. The city forms a part of the Krishna
district, spread over an area of 58-sq- kms.

Places to see in Vijayawada:

• The Gandhi Stupa
The Gandhi Stupa, 15.8ft high, stands on Gandhi Hill, which was formally known as "Orr Hill". This Monument built in memory of Mahatma Gandhi and was inaugurated by the late Prime Minister of India, Lal Bahadur Shastri in 1968. It has the teachings of Gandhi inscribed on stone slabs .The Gandhi memorial Library, sound and light show and planetarium are added attractions here. Climb to the top of the hill for a bird's eye view of the town.

• Akkana and Madanna Caves
On the way to the Kanakadurga Temple are the rock-cut caves dedicated to Akkana and Madanna, who were ministers in the court of Abdul Hasan Tanashah in the 17th century. A short distance away is another cave that dates back to the 2nd century BC, which hosts the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara.

• Kanaka Durga Temple
Kanaka Durga, goddess of power, riches and benevolence is considered the presiding deity of Vijayawada. The temple is set on the Indrakiladri hill. The deity in the Kanaka Durga temple is regarded as Swayambhu or self-manifested, hence is considered very powerful. It is said that Adi Sankara visited this temple and installed the Sri Chakra here.

• Rajiv Gandhi Park
Walk able distance from the new Vijayawada bus stand, this is an educative park containing built-up structures of dinosaurs and pre-historic animals, with a playing area where one can spend time relaxing and learning.

• Malleswaraswami Temple
Adjacent to the Kanakadurga temple is the shrine of Malleswara Swamy on the Indrakiladri hill. Mallikarjuna or the Malleswara as he is known in the Puranas is said to have been installed by Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Panch Pandavas, as a token of their victory of the South.

• Mogalrajapuram Caves
Just 5-km from Vijayawada is the Mogalarajapuram caves having three cave temples, dating back to the 5th century AD. Out of the 3 cave temples constructed here only one is still in good condition with the idols of Lord Nataraja, Vinayaka and others. The Ardhanareeshwara Murthy found here is considered the only one of its kind in south India.

Excursions of Vijayawada:

Undavalli Caves
The ancient Hindu cave temples of Undavalli are located about 8km from Vijayawada across the river. The temples are atop the high hills overlooking the Krishna river. There are fine specimens of cut-in architectural and sculptural models. A huge monolith of Lord Vishnu in lying position is worth mentioning.

Kuchipudi
Located 60 kms from Vijayawada is the birthplace of Siddhendra Yogi, originator of the famous Kuchipudi style of dance. This place is known as Kuchipudi, famous for it artistic excellence. A worth visiting site here is a Kuchipudi dance school, set up in the memory of the great yogi.

Chandavaram
The Chandavaram is located in Prakasam district about 50-km away from Vijayawada. This place is famous as an important Buddhist site. The highlight of this place is an unusual double terraced stupa situated on top of a hillock known as "Singarakonda" (beautiful hillock). It is regarded as the only one of its kind in South India.

How to reach Vijayawada:

By Air
The nearest airport is the domestic airport located at Gannavaram, about 20-km, from the city. It connects Vijayawada to Hyderabad and Vishakhapatnam. It is just a 30-minute flight away from Hyderabad.

By Rail
Situated along the Chennai- Howrah and Chennai-Delhi rail route, Vijayawada is the largest railway junction of the South Central Railway. There are a number of express and super fast trains, connecting Vijayawada with almost all the important places of the country.

By Road
The city has a good network of roads that connects Vijayawada with all the places within the state and also with the major cities in India. One can also go to interesting Buddhist places by the buses of Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation.

For more details on Vijayawada Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Jabalpur Travel Guide

2007-06-15T03:24:00.000-07:00

Jabalpur is one of the most important cities in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Jabalpur is the administrative and educational center in Madhya Pradesh. Jabalpur is also important because it is the gateway to important wildlife sanctuaries around it. Interestingly, the name Jabalpur is derived from the Arabic word 'Jabal'which means 'mountain' pointing to the ancient trade connection with Arab countries.

The origin of Jabalpur goes back to ancient times. It was then known as Tripuri and was governed by Hayahaya rulers. The ancient Indian epic of Mahabharata has references to his city. It became a part of the great Mauryan and the Gupta Empires. In ad 875, it was taken over by the Kalchuri dynasty who made Jabalpur their capital. In the 13th century, the Gonds seized it and made it their capital. By the early 16th century, it had become the powerful kingdom of Gondwana. From time to time, the Mughal rulers tried to overrun it. The legendary Gond Queen Rani Durgavati died fighting the Mughal forces led by the great Mughal Emperor Akbar. It finally fell to the Marathas in 1789 and was taken over by the British in 1817, when they defeated the Marathas.

Places to see in Jabalpur:

• Tilwara Ghat
From where Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were immersed in the Narmada, and venue of the open session of the tripuri Congress in 1939; the 12th century Mala Devi Mandir; Pisan Hari Jain Temples, and roopnath are some of the other places in the around jabalpur which merit a visit.

• Dla and Ramnagar
Mandla is known for its fort, built in the late 1600s by Gond Kings. The fort is now subsiding into the jungle although some of the towers still stand. Places worth seeing around Mandla are Ramnagar (about 15 km), with its ruined 3-storey palace overlooking the Narmada and the temples dotting the riverbank of Narmada.

• Chausat Yogini
Situated atop a hill rock and approached by a long flight of steps, the Chausat Yogini Temple commands a singularly beautiful view of the Narmada flowing through the jagged gorge of Marble Rocks (Bhedaghat). Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this 10th century temple has exquisitely carved stone figures of deities belonging to the Kalchuri period. According to a local legend, this ancient temple is connected to the Gond Queen Durgavati's palace through an underground passage.

• Bargi Dam
It is a multipurpose project on river Narmada. It's also a tourist spot, recently the
local authorities have started a cruise boat which runs on the reservoir of Bargi dam.

• Bandhavgarh Fort
This fort is believed to be nearly 2000 years old. It lies right in the middle of the wilderness on the highest point of Bandhavgarh Hill. There are references of this fort in the ancient books, the Narad Panch-Ratna and the Shiva Puran.

• Rani Durgavati Memorial and Museum
Dedicated to the memory of the great Queen Durgavati, it is her memorial and museum, which houses a fine collection of sculptures, inscriptions and prehistoric relics. The museum has a good collection of artifacts and also has a section dedicated to artifacts and photos related to Mahatma Gandhi.

• Kanha Kisli national park
Jabalpur is nearest big city to go to Kanha Kisli national park which is one of the biggest national parks in India and has the distinction of successfully implemented Project Tiger, as tiger conservation program in India. The park is also the birth place of the Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling. Jabalpur also has 'Bandhavgarh' and 'Pench' national reserve forest very close by, and well connected through road.

Excursions from Jabalpur:

Bedaghat
The Small village of Jabalpur tehsil situated on the bank of river Narmada and widely famous for its marble Rocks is at a distance about 21 Km from Jabalpur by road. Soaring in glittering splendor, the Marble Rocks at Bhedaghat rise to a hundred feet on either side of the Narmada. The serene loveliness of the scene is one of cool quiet, the sunlight sparkling on the marble-white pinnacles and casting dappled shadows on the pellucid waters. Sunlight, now glancing from a pinnacle of snow-white marble reared against the deep blue of the sky as from a point of silver; touching here and there with bright lights the prominences of the middle heights; and again losing itself in the soft bluish grays of their recesses.

Dhuandhar
The famous waterfall is located just 25 km from Jabalpur. The waterfall is known as Dhuandhar ('Dhuan' is the Hindi word for smoke) since the water droplets at the fall go above in concentrated mass and crete illusion of vapours.

How to get Jabalpur:

By Air
Jabalpur has an airstrip called Dumna Airport capable of landing most of the aircraft but the regular flights are yet not started.

By Train
Jabalpur is well-connected with super fast trains from Mumbai, Bhopal and New Delhi.

By Road
Jabalpur has an excellent road connection with Nagpur, Bhopal and several other important cities in the country. There are two national highways namely NH-7 & HN-12 passing through Jabalpur.

For more details on Jabalpur Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Bhopal Travel Guide

2007-06-13T00:33:00.000-07:00

Bhopal, capital of Madhya Pradesh combines scenic beauty, historicity and modern urban planning. It is situated on the site of an 11th century city, Bhojapal, founded by Raja Bhoja.

Bhopal, the city of Lake, is a fascinating amalgam of scenic beauty, old historic city and modern urban planning. The two lakes of Bhopal still dominate the city, and are indeed its nucleus. Bordered along their shores stand silent sentinels that testify to the growth of the city. Bhopal today presents a multi-faceted profile; the old city with its marketplaces and fine old mosques and palaces still bears the aristocratic imprint of its former rulers, among them the succession of powerful Begums who ruled Bhopal from 1819 to 1926. Equally impressive is the new city with its verdant, exquisitely laid out parks and gardens, broad avenues and streamlined modern edifices. It is greener and cleaner than most cities in the country.

Places to see in Bhopal:
Bhopal is a charming city with reminders of the erstwhile rule and glamorous life led by the Nawabs and Begums. The mosques and the temples are architectural marvels.

Laxmi Narayan Temple
Laxmi Narayan Temple, also known as the Birla Mandir, is situated to the south of the Lower Lake on the Arera Hills. Near the Temple is located a museum that houses a collection of sculptures from the districts at Raisen, Sehore, Mandsaur, and Shahdol in of Madhya Pradesh.

Gohar Mahal
The Gohar Mahal is a very significant historical building in dilapidated state. On an invitation from the Ministry of Textiles and Madhya Pradesh Handloom and Handicrafts Vikas Nigam (MPHHVN), INTACH has worked out a restoration and reuse proposal for the complex. To convert it into an Urban Haat, the palace will be restored maintaining the original fabric and construction details of the buildings and finally inserts new functions.

Government Archaeological Museum
A fine collection of sculptures are on display here from various parts of Madhya Pradesh. Highlights of the collection are paintings of various schools, copies of paintings from the Bagh caves near Mandu and the statues of Alakshmi and the Buddha. The museum is closed on Mondays.

Moti Masjid
Moti Masjid built by Qudsia Begum's daughter Sikander Jahan Begum in 1860 A.D is similar in style to Delhi's Jama Masjid, though smaller in size than the Jama Masjid.

Bharat Bhawan
Established in 1982, Bharat Bhavan is no doubt a centre for innovative creativity, pursuit of classics and tradition and wide participation in a new cultural upsurge. One of the most unique national institutes in India, Bharat Bhawan is a center for the performing and visual arts. Designed by the renowned architect Charles Correa, its contours merge in exquisite harmony with the landscape creating a visual impact of spacious and national elegance.

Taj-ul Masjid
Taj-ul Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India. Shah Jahan Begum started the construction of this mosque during her reign, but it was never completed in her lifetime. It was only with the intervention of the Government of India in 1971 that the construction of the mosque was completed. Today, this huge pink mosque with two massive white-domed minarets is used as a madarsa (religious school). A three-day annual Ijtima congregation held here draws scores of people from all over the country.

The upper lake and The Lower Lake
The Upper Lake is divided from the Lower by an over bridge and is 6 sq. kms. in area. Madhya Pradesh Tourism's Yacht Club on the Upper and Lower Lakes provide facilities for exciting trips by sail, paddle and motorboats. These two beautiful lakes have given Bhopal its title as the "City of Lakes ".

Regional Science Centre
Basically a science museum, located on the picturesque Shamala Hills, Regional Science Centre houses about 300 participatory exhibits distributed equally in 'Invention' & 'Fun Science' galleries, and a 'taramandal' (Planetarium). The museum remains open from 10.30 am to 6.30 PM on all days except Mondays.

How to Get Bhopal:

By Air
Indian Airlines runs regular air service linking Bhopal with New Delhi and Mumbai. Jet Airways and Air Deccan also has daily flights to Bhopal.

By Rail
Bhopal is very well connected by rail and is a major hub and exchange railway station for the Central and Western Railway networks. Bhopal has two main railway stations - Bhopal Railway Station in old Bhopal or Habibgunj Railway Station in New Bhopal. Shatabdi express running between Delhi and Bhopal provides an excellent and convenient means to get here. Apart from this, regular multiple trains connect Bhopal to all the major metros in India. Book your tickets on Indian Railways website

By Road
Bhopal is also well connected to the major metros in India through many national highways.

For more details on Bhopal Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Coimbatore Travel Guide

2007-06-11T02:38:00.000-07:00

Coimbatore The 3rd largest city in Tamilnadu, Coimbatore is popularly known as the ‘Manchester of south India’ for its many textile mills. Is a large business and industrial city and a hub of discussion and debate with many medical, educational, business and technology groups conducting seminars here. Based at the foothills of the Nilgiris, the city also boasts of tea and coffee plantations along with numerous cash crops like tobacco and cotton. One of South India’s most important industrial cities, the development of hydroelectricity from pykara falls in the 1930s led to a cotton boom in Coimbatore.

Attractions in Coimbatore:

• VOC Amusement Park and Zoo
The amusement park, named after the freedom fighter V. O. Chidambaram, is an exciting place for both children and adults. The main attraction of the park includes a number of joy rides, an aquarium containing large variety of fish, a zoo and a toy train.

• Marudhamalai
Located on a hillock about 12 km from Coimbatore Railway Station, the temple of Marudhamalai, dedicated to Lord Subramanya, is one of the most visited temples in the region. One of the reasons of the large number of devotees flocking the temple is that the residing deity Dandayuthapani is believed to have performed several miracles here. Thai Poosam and Tirukarthigai festivals are celebrated with great pomp and gaiety at this temple.

• Agriculture University
Situated about 5 km from the railway station, the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University is one of the best institutions for agricultural studies in Asia. The university spread in an area of 300 hectares also houses a botanical garden with different species of plants and trees.

• Perur
Perur is a small town situated about 6 km from Coimbatore. Its main claim to fame is the holy Perur Temple, one of the seven Kongu Sivalayams. The outer buildings of the temple were built by rulers of Madurai in the 17th century but the inner shrine is much older. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. One of the remarkable features here is the figure of a sepoy (Indian soldier) loading a musket carved on the base of the pillar near the entrance, wearing identical dress to that of the Aurangzeb's soldiers.

• Forest College
The Forest College is located at a short distance from the railway station. A museum located inside the college is one of the major tourist attractions housing a collection of unique rocks, minerals, snakes, insects and other types of fungi.

• Siruvani Waterfalls
The picturesque Siruvani Waterfalls and Dam is situated about 37 km west of the city. The place abounding in natural beauty leaves the tourists mesmerized and spellbound by its sheer natural splendor. The water of Siruvani contains a lot of minerals and is known for its taste.

Coimbatore Excursions:
Thirty kilometers from the city is the famous Vaideki Water Falls, which is a popular Coimbatore thing to do. Visitors are spell bound by the beauty of the waterfall. The area around the fall is also a good trekking area. About ninety kilometers from the city is the Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary. It is spread over an area of almost nine-hundred-and-sixty square kilometers, and is home to some of the finest species of mammals, including all the big cats.

Bhavani is a major pilgrim site that is located one-hundred-twenty kilometers from the city. All the Crocodile Dundees can travel twenty from Amarvati dam, to a crocodile farm, where you can feed a croc. This temple has visitors all round the year. You can also visit Black Thunder, which is frequently called the best amusement park in Asia. This water theme park is very thrilling indeed. Coimbatore is a gateway to many fascinating cities in the south, like Kodaikanal or Ooty.

How to Reach Coimbatore:

By Air
Peelamedu airport is 10-km from the Coimbatore city, which operates regular flights to Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi and Madurai.

By Rail
Coimbatore is a major railway junction on the Southern Railways and has trains to Chennai, Rameswaram, Madurai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Kanyakumari, Kozhikode, Mettupalayam, Kochi and Delhi.

By Road
Well built roads and highways connect Coimbatore to all the major cities in and around the state.

Local Transportation
For local transportation, city buses, taxis and auto rickshaws are available. State Transport Corporation ply mini luxury coaches between various points in the city and airport.

For more details on Coimbatore Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Bikaner Travel Guide

2007-06-09T00:11:00.000-07:00

Bikaner was founded in 1488 by a descendant of the founder of Jodhpur named Rao Bhikaji. The city is encircled by high fortifications comprising a 7 km long wall which bounds the old city and has 5 entrances. All these were established in the 18th century. Bikaner, the sprawling desert city of Rajasthan is an interesting site of traditional Rajasthani attractions, well-fed camels and citadels. This camel country is also famous for its exotic camel safaris, its gorgeous forts and the worship of thousands of holy rats at Mata Kali temple.

Places to see in Bikaner:

• Junagarh Fort
Junagarh Fort was constructed between 1588 and 1593 by Raja Rai Singh, a general in the army of Mughal emperor Akbar, with embellishments in the form of palaces and Luxurious suites added by subsequent Maharajas. This fort has a 986m-long wall with 37 bastions, a moat and two entrances. The Surajpol or the 'Sun Gate' is the main entrance. The palaces within the fort are on the southern side and make a picturesque ensemble of courtyards, balconies, kiosks, towers and windows. A major feature of fort and palaces is the superb quality of stone carving.

• Devi Kund
Ayoyal crematorium with several ornamented cenotaphs or "chhatris' built in the memory of the Bika dynasty rulers. Maharaja Suraj Singh chhatri is the most impressive of all creative entirely in white marble with spectacular Rajput painting on the ceiling.

• Lalgarh Palace
The Lalgarh Palace built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the memory of his father is an architectural splendor in red sandstone. It is situated 3 kms north of Bikaner city. Designed by Sir Swinton Jacob, it has beautiful latticework and filigree work in sandstone. The palace is quite entirely imposing with overhanging balconies and delicate latticework. The gardens with wandering peacocks and blooming bougainvillea welcome the visitors to the palace.

• Camel Research Farm
Spend a day with indispensable ship of the desert at their camel research and breeding centre-one of its kind in Asia. Timing 15.00hrs to 17.00hrs (Closed on Sundays and government holidays) Photography prohibited. The farm extends over 2000 acres of semiarid land is managed by the central Government. The camel crops of Bikaner were a famous fighting force during the Raj and are still an important part of the desert warfare and defence through the border security Force (BSF).

• Deshnok's Karni Mata Temple
The famous 600 year old temple on the Jodhpur road dedicated to Karni Mata, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple has huge intricately carved silver gates, which were donated by Maharaja Ganga Singh The most interesting thing about the temple are the rats who scamper freely within the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.

• Kalibanga
The name Kalibanga itself does not say much but to a student of history it is immediately recognized as one of the important sites of the Indus Valley Civilization that flourished around 3000 to 5000 years BC. Kalibanga is a major site of the IVC-a monument. Due to years of negligence the precious evidence so painstakingly excavated has crumbled into unrecognizable rubble.

Excursion of Bikaner:

Gajner Palace
Gajner Palace a summer resort of Bikaner Maharajas -has often been described as ' an incomparable jewel in the Thar desert'. Built by Maharaja Ganga Singh ji of Bikaner, palace stands on the embankment of a lake .The palace was used by Maharaja for grand shoots and lavish entertainment. Royalty, Indian as well as international, Viceroys and other dignitaries have been entertained at this grand palace. The architecture of Gajner palace is truly outstanding.

Katariasar Village
45 kms from the city on Jaipur Road, the village is rich in ethnic rural and cultural life. View sunset with typical desert landscape around, walk on a range of sand dunes and enjoy desert lifestyle. Villagers main profession is cattle rearing and milk production. The founder of Jasnathi sect of fire dancers- Jasnathji hail from this very place. Herds of chinkara, desert fox, rabbit, peacock, parrot and pat ridges are found in plenty around the village.

Devi Kund Sagar
The Royal crematorium has several exquisite cenotaphs which were built in memory of the deceased members of the ruling family of Bikaner. The Chhatries (Cenotaphs) of the early rulers were made of red sandstone, ornamentation on which resembles very much with carving work on some of the buildings of Fatehpur Sikri.

How to Reach Bikaner:

By Air
Jodhpur is the nearest Airport. Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan is well connected by Regular flights from all the metros cities of India--. Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai.

By Rail
A good rail network with cities connects Bikaner like Delhi, Kolkata, Jaipur and Allahabad. The "Palace on Wheels" luxury train also covers Bikaner in its eight-day tour of Rajasthan.

By Road
Bikaner is connected by road with the major cities in India. National and State Highways link Bikaner with the other major cities and metros in India. Delhi is 456km, Jaipur 334km and Jaisalmer 333km from Bikaner.

For more details on Bikaner Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Madurai Travel Guide

2007-06-05T02:43:00.000-07:00

Madurai or the "city of nectar" is the oldest and second largest city of Tamil Nadu. This city is located on Vaigai River and was the capital of Pandyan rulers till the 14th century. The Pandyan king, Kulasekhara had built a gorgeous temple around which he created a lotus shaped city. Mythology says when city was being named; Lord Shiva blessed the city and its people. On the auspicious occasion some Divine nectar fell from the matted locks of Shiva and hence the city was named "Madhurapuri". This sacred town of south attracts thousands of pilgrims and visitors from India as well as abroad.

Places to see in Madurai:

Meenakshi Temple
The landmark of Madurai is the Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple dedicated to Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. Kulasekhara Pandya originally built the temple. But the credit for making the temple as splendid as it is today goes to the Nayak dynasty that ruled Madurai from 16th - 18th centuries. It is a twin temple; one dedicated to Meenakshi and the other to Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva). The rectangular temple is graced by twelve gopurams (towers). The southern gopuram is the tallest and rises to 49m. The thousand-pillared hall has beautiful sculptures.

Koodal Alagar Temple
This ancient shrine has Vishnu in sitting, standing and reclining postures, one above the other. It has elegantly carved ornamental windows described as "miracles of the stone masons art". There are also intricate wood carvings including a panel of lord Rama's Pattabishekam.

Vandiyur Kanmoy Tourist Complex
Located 6kms from the Periyar Bus stand, Vandiyur Kanmoy (tank) is an ideal picnic spot. T.T.D.C. operates children’s Train and boating service. There is also a restaurant in the tourist complex.

Tirumalai Nayak Palace
Tirumalai Nayak Palace is a kilometer away from the temple and was built in 1636 by the ruler, after whom it has been named. Though much of the palace is only in ruins, the entrance gate, main hall and dance hall remain intact.

Vanditur Mariamman Teppakulam
This huge tank is covers an area equal to the six of Meenakshi temple. Tirumalai Nayak built it in 1646. It is said that channels from the Vaigai River connect the tank. Today, this tank remains empty for most of the year except during the Teppam Festival.

Naickar Mahal
The remains of the palace of the 17th century ruler Thirumalai Naickar who contributed extensively to the Meenakshi Temple. Only a small portion of the original structure which was four times as largeremains. There were originally two parts-Swargavilasa, meant for the King, is harem and housing the darbar court, and the ranka vilasa, which was for the servants. Currently, entrance to the roof is prohibited due the renovation work being carried out by the Archaeological Department. They claim to finish work in 6 months.

Gandhi Museum
This institution housed in a 300-year old palace is dedicated to Gandhi je and promotes study and appreciation of the Mahatma's teachings. There is a picture gallery, personal memorabilia of the Mahatma, a library and an exhibition of South India handicrafts and village industries.

Excursion of Madurai:

Vaigai Dam
Vaigai dam is surrounded by well-manicured gardens and has come up as a popular picnic spots, just 70-km from Madurai.

Megamalai
The tea estates on the slopes of the Western Ghats nestles Megamalai. This lovely place is bound to capture your imagination. Good place to stay and enjoy a lovely surrounding. One can also watch the animals roaming in the forest, which is close to Megamalai, Just 130-km from Madurai.

Suruli Falls
123-km from Madurai city is Suruli falls, which are located in a picturesque area. It is an ideal spot and an excellent picnic spot to spend one day.

Courtallam
Courtallam is located about 167-km on the Western Ghats and is an excellent health resort in this part of the country. This place is also known as the 'Spa of the South'. Courtallam is located just 160-km from Madurai. This place has got nine splendid waterfalls, which attracts a large number of visitors. TTDC offers here a boathouse accommodation apart from the restaurant.

Palani
118-km from Madurai is the temple dedicated to Lord Subramanyam. The temple is located on top of a hill 180 meter high. The temple attracts many devotees and people coming to Madurai do not miss visiting Palani. From the hill top one gets an excellent view of the nearby
area.

How to get there:

By Air
Madurai has its own airport situated 10 kms away from the city. There are daily flights to Madurai from Chennai, Bangalore, Tiruchi & Coimbatore.

By Rail
There are train connections to Madurai from Madras, which takes eight hours via Trichy and from Rameshwaram, takes six hours. If you approach Madurai from Kerala, some spectacular scenes of the Western Ghats can be viewed.

By Road
The city has excellent roads connecting Madurai to all parts of South India. It has 5 Major bus stands.

For more details on Madurai travel visit www.times2travel.com

Pune Travel Guide

2007-05-31T02:50:00.000-07:00

Pune also known as Poona is the cultural capital of Maharashtra. It was the seat of power during Maratha Kingdom. Located at a distance of 160 km from Mumbai, Pune is the second largest city of Maharashtra.

Pune lies close to the Western Ghat Mountains, on the edge of the Deccan plains as they stretch away to the east. Pune is the cultural capital of the Maratha people, which is also known as the "Queen of the Deccan." Pune is a contrast of history and modernism. Pune is considered as the Oxford of India – with its many educational and research institutions apart from other institutions for sports, yoga, ayurveda, culture and social services. Pune is nowadays also seen as a potential city for massive growth of Information Technology.

Places to see in Pune:

• Raja Denkar Kelkar Museum
Creation of the passionate efforts of a single person, Dr. D.G.Kelkar, the museum has a vast collection of unique and peculiar exhibits. The collection is eclectic and exceptional. In a pleasant change from the other well-known museums of India, the Raja Denkar Kelkar museum exhibits the diversity of India's culture in a subtle and delightful way. The elephant-shaped foot scrubber, a brass scorpion that reveals a secret lock and eight images of Lord Ganesha carved on a bean make it a place to see in Pune.

• Kandariya Mahadeo
Popularly Known as SONAR QUILA, rising from the sand, the mega structure merges with the golden hues of the desert ambience and the setting suns in its most colourful shades gives it a fairy tale look. Its simply a magic, the bastions envelops a whole townships that consist of palace complex various security sources and the havelis of rich merchants carved with an incredibly light touch.

• Raj Bhavan
Raj Bhavan or the Government's House was built in the year 1866 and housed the government of Bombay Presidency during the colonial times in the summers. The building was impressively designed by James Trubshawe and is situated in Ganeshkhind. It is must visit place for all the tourists in Pune.

• Chaunsath Yogini
This lake situated in south of the city walls, once held the town water supply, and befitting its importance in providing precious water to the inhabitants of this arid city, it is surrounded by small temples and shrines. The beautiful yellow sandstone gateway arching across the road down to the tank is the Tilon-ki-Pol, and is said to have been built by a famous prostitute, Tilon.

• Konark Park
Situated in the outskirts of Pune, ahead of Ambrosia and around 5 kms from Pashan is this beautiful bird sanctuary. It is a private collection of birds of Dr. Suhas Jog. The birds here have been collected by Dr. Jog over a period of 30 years from different parts of the world. This aviary cum birds research centre houses the most unique and beautiful species of birds. One cannot but feel overwhelmed by the beauty of these birds. Photography is not allowed inside the park and nothing can replace the joy of seeing the birds in person.

• Matangeshwara Temple
Situated outside the premises of Western group of temples, this Lord Shiva's temple is known for the daunting eight-feet high lingam (male organ representing the natural process of reproduction and the continuity of human life form) that it enshrines.

Hill Stations in Pune:
Pune being surrounded by the Sahyadris is very near to various hill stations of Maharashtra. Mahabaleshwar, the queen of hill stations in Maharashtra was established in 1829 by the British. Situated in the heart of Sahyadri hills, this cool place has a legendary past with a temple dedicated to Shiva. At an altitude of 1372m, this place is 120 km away from Pune and offers splendid spots.

Matheran
Matheran is actually closer to Mumbai but is hardly 118 km from Pune. The most unforgettable things about Matheran are the deep forests, waterfalls nearby and the splendid flora - fauna. Monsoon spells out double magic in Matheran.

Lonavala and Khandala
Lonavala and Khandala are two charming little hill stations on the western slopes of the Sahyadris, 5-km apart, that straddle the Mumbai - Pune highway at an altitude of 625m. These small towns, 70 km away from Pune, are blessed with nature in bounty. With beautiful hills, deep green valleys, huge lakes, and waterfalls these are paradise for the trekkers.

Climate:
Pune has three distinct seasons: summer, monsoon and winter. Typical hot summer weather runs from March to May, with maximum temperatures ranging from 35 to 42°C. Contrary to most of the Deccan Plateau where May is the warmest month, the warmest month in Pune is April. The city often receives local and heavy thundershowers with sharp downpours in May, which cools the temperatures. Nevertheless, the nights in Pune are significantly cooler than most other parts in this region owing to its high altitude.

How to Reach Pune:

By Air
Airport is situated in the Lohagaon area, about 12-km from the city. Indian Airlines and Jet Airways provide regular flights to Pune from Delhi, four flights a week to Chennai and Bangalore, two to three flights daily from Mumbai and to Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Goa.

By Rail
Pune has excellent railway services connecting all major cities.

By Road
Pune is well connected by road with the all major cities within the state as well as outside the state. Daily private and government buses ply from Pune to Mumbai (4hrs).

For more details on Pune Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Mahabaleshwar travel Guide

2007-05-28T22:52:00.000-07:00

Nestling in the curvaceous mountain ranges of the western ghats of Maharashtra are the cool misty resorts of Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani. Away from the crowds and noise of the city, these twin resorts are an ideal holiday destination.

Among the hill resorts of the state, Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani are very popular. Tucked away in the Satara district, they are best approached from Pune. Spared the commercialization that has affected the hill resorts of north and south India, the two resorts offer a clean, calm and thoroughly refreshing alternative. And, perhaps the only place in the country which offers a myriad activities-boating, fishing, horse riding, trekking and playing golf on the gorgeous nine-hole golf course built on the edge of a cliff!

Places to See in Mahabaleshwar:

• Pratapgad Fort
The historic Pratapgad Fort (24 km) was built by the Maratha chieftain Chhatrapati Shivaji in 1656, to control the rebellious rulers of the nearby Javali Basin. According to legend, Shivaji was blessed with a shining sword at the temple of Goddess Bhawani located here. It is also the site of the famous battle between Shivaji and Afzal Khan, ruler of the Bijapur Sultanate.

• Mount Malcolm
It used to be the most famous building in the olden days. it was built in 1829 with magnificent architectural skills. Unfortunately, it has lost a lot of its old charm now.

• Wilson Point or Sunrise Point
It is the highest point at Mahabaleshwar, about 4710 feet above sea level. It is a vast plateau, there are three masonry round platforms which offer splendor view of the sunrise. The platform no: 2 is the best platform to view sunrise, one can also see sunset from this point.

• Catholic Church
A visit to the old Raman Catholic Holy cross church is worth a detour. Although the church is practically falling apart, its stained-glass windows are still a sight to behold. This deserted church is now looked after by a Hindu family.

• Waterfalls
There are several waterfalls situated at a very short distance from Mahabaleshwar. The famous water falls are Chinaman's (2.5 Kms), Dhobi (3 Kms) and Lingamala (6 Kms). Another beautiful waterfall is Arthur's Seat, 12 Kms away from Mahabaleshwar.

• Mahabaleshwar Club
The club was built in 1881 and is still flourishing and well-maintained. Only members of the club can stay here. It is very popular for its well-tended roses and lovely jogging track. Christmas is grandly celebrated by loyal members every year. Fortunately, one facility is open to visitors; who can use the golf course whenever they feel like it.

• Morarji Castle
Also worth a look is this old structure. Mahatma Gandhi once lived here in 1945.

Climate
The climate tends to be damp and extremely wet during the rainy season, warm in summer and fairly cool in the winter months. Weather pundits say of Mahabaleshwar that it is never too hot, thanks to its height and never cold, thanks to its proximity to the warm waters of the Arabian Sea! Except for the rainy season, Mahabaleshwar is packed with people and honeymooners looking for a cool getaway. But the cognoscenti swear that Mahabaleshwar has its own particular charm and magic during the monsoons. So give rainy Mahabaleshwar a try. High season is during the festive months of October and December and during the summer vacation in May-June. The surrounding forests produce many commercial varieties of medicinal herbs, trees & plants. Local wild life is limited to foxes, jackals, wild boars, deer and Indian bison found in the Brahma Aranya forest area. Even the odd sighting of panthers has been reported though that is rarity.

How to get there

By Air
The nearest airport is at Pune at about 120kms from Mahabaleshwar. Pune airport has tourist services for those willing to visit Mahabaleshwar.

By Rail/Train
Pune is the convenient railhead to Mahabaleshwar. However the nearest railway station to Mahabaleshwar is at Wathar, at a distance of 62kms.

By Road
From Bombay via Pune, Mahabaleshwar is 290 km and via Mahad it is 247 km. The State Transport buses ply from Bombay and Pune to Mahabaleshwar. MTDC operates daily bus services except during the monsoon, between Bombay-Mahabaleshwar-Bombay. Also sightseeing tours for Mahabaleshwar and Mahabaleshwar-Pratapgad Fort.

For more details on Mahabaleshwar Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Hyderabad Travel Guide

2007-05-26T03:39:00.000-07:00

Hyderabad is the capital city of Andhra Pradesh. Between northern and southern India, Hyderabad has a rich history and multi-lingual culture, and has boasted peaceful coexistence of Mulsims and Hindus.

Hyderabad is famous world over for its fabulous Diamond markets, glass embedded bangles and the delectable Hyderabadi cuisine. It has a Hindu - Muslim culture with a number of monuments of historical importance. Legend says that in 1589 Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah, the fifth ruler of the Qutub Shahi dynasty founded a new city along the banks of river Musi for his ladylove, Bhagmati. The city was then called Bhagyanagar. Later when Bhagmati entered the royal family, she was honored with the title Hyder Mahal. And Bhagyanagar became
Hyderabad.

Places to see in Hyderabad:

Golconda Fort
This fort, originally built by the Kakatiyas, the rulers of the neighboring state, was made with mud. Later, the Shahis converted it into a marvelous piece of architecture using advanced acoustics wherein sound signals could pass from the entrance of the fort to the top without the use of any electric gadgets. There is a sound and light show in the evening which is quiet popular.

Charminar
It is the principal landmark of Hyderabad. In 1591, Mohamed Quli Qutub Shah built Charminar to commemorate the end of a devastating epidemic. Charminar, which means four towers, stands 56m high and 30m wide creating four arches facing each of cardinal points.

Salar Jung Museum
A major attraction for art lovers, Salar Jung Museum was put together by Mir Yousuf Ali Khan (Salar Jung III), the Prime Minister of Nizam Osman Ali Khan. One of the largest private collections in the world that covers exhibits from every part of the world, the museum has over 35,000 items comprising of wood carvings, sculptures, Persian miniature paintings, weaponry and a library of 50000 books.

Birla Mandir
As the name indicates, Birla Trust in 1976 constructed the temple. Built with white Rajastani marble, the temple is located on Kalabahad, one of the twin rocky hills overlooking the south end of Hussain Sagar. The temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple is a replica of Venkateshwara temple at Tirupati.

Qutub Shahi Tombs
The royal cemetery of the Qutub Shahi kings lies about 2km from the Golconda Fort. The tombs are a scattered group of large domes and terraces. Perhaps this is the only place in the world where one can see so many tombs in one place. All the Qutub Shahi kings except Abdul Hassan Tana Shah who died in captivity in Daulatabad are buried here. These graceful domed tombs are surrounded by landscaped gardens.

Hyderabad Fair & Festivals:

Deccan Festivals
The deccan festival highlights Hyderabad's arts, crafts, culture and cusine. This festival also includes a Pearls and Bangles fair and a food fair. Cultural programs, food stalls arts and craft shops etc. are also organized.

Lumbini Festival
This festival is organized to celebrate the Buddhist Heritage of Andra Pradesh. The festival is celebrated in Nagarjunasagar and Hyderabad for three days from 2nd Friday of December every year.

Ugadi
This native New Year comes soon after the celebration of 'holy' in April-May. Spring is considered as the first season of this native New Year of Andra

Vinayak Chaturthi
The day is celebrated with devotion and enthusiasm throughout the country, because on that day Lord Ganesh was born. Every year the largest Ganesh Idol is installed at Khairatbad in Hyderabad that is taller than thirty feet. On the 11th day of celebration, processions converge at Hussain Sager Lake. The ten-day Ganesh festival concludes with the immersion of Ganesh idols in the lake.

Climate:

Summer
March - June, Temperatures hit 40 degrees celsius. Sunstroke is common. Drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen.

Monsoon
July- September. Usually it doesn't rain much, but occasionally you get thunderstorms.

Winter
October - February, Average 8 degrees celsius. Sometimes bitingly cold, but mostly pleasant.

How to get there:

Air
Has international airport.

Rail
Being headquarter of South Central Railway, Well connected from all major cities of India.

Road
Hyderbad, being Capital city is well conected by Road from all major cities in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, Tamilnadu, Maharashtra and Orissa.

For more details on Hyderabad Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Gwalior Travel Guide

2007-05-23T00:51:00.000-07:00

Gwalior is the perfect entry point into Madhya Pradesh. It will instantly give you a feel of the state’s history, landscape and people. The people of Gwalior are as tough and resilient as its terrain. They have crossed swords with the mightiest armies in the country down the ages; and more recently, they have come into conflict with the dacoits who have plundered the Chambal River Valley.

Places to see in Gwalior:

Memorial of Rani (Queen) Jhansi
This memorial stands near Phoolbagh. One of the most famous ladies in the entire History of India, Rani Laxmibai of Jhansi laid down her life in Gwalior. Laxmibai was one of the leaders in the first freedom struggle of India. Rani of Jhansi, Laxmibai came to Gwalior when general Huroz of British army defeated Laxmibai in Kalpi.

Jai Vilas Palace
Jai Vilas is unmatched in scale and splendor. The durbar hall for formal audience measures 15 meters by 85 meters with the roof over 12 meters high. The ceiling is painted in pale green and gold and the floor is covered with perhaps the largest one-piece carpet woven in situ by the carpet makers in the world. This is the room about which lady Dufferin the Vicereine exclaimed in 1884”.

Tomb of Tansen
This is the tomb of the father of Hindustani classical music, the great Mian Tansen, one of the 'Nine Jewels' of Emperor Akbar's court. It is built in the early Mughal architectural style and is surrounded by lush gardens in typical Mughal style. Every year a national level music festival is organized here in November/December. There is a tamarind tree near the tomb. It is believed that Tansen got fabulous voice after eating leaves of this tree so people visiting the place also eat these leaves.

Moti Mahal
Jaivilas despite its opulence did not become the Maharaja’s favorite. It was more suited for a European prince than an oriental potentate. Another Palace was commissioned. Thus was Moti Mahal born, a modest mansion with nine hundred rooms. It draws inspiration from the medieval buildings in Gwalior and has an unmistakable oriental ambience with curving colonnaded terraces flanked by square towers.

Sas Bahu Ka Madir
The Sas-Bahu temple was probably called the Shashtra Bahu temple. "The smaller one close to it was perhaps a Shiva temple, but over the years this pair of temples whose carvings can be compared to any of the great temples of India came to be known as the "Sas-Bahu temples".

Shopping in Gwalior:
Shopping in Gwalior is going to be a fabulous experience for the tourists who would like to carry home authentic items with a royal splendor. The Gwalior bazaars are perhaps the oldest in Madhya Pradesh. The shops in Gwalior have a lineage of centuries and were once patronized by the royalty in Gwalior. If you are looking for souvenirs with a traditional touch, you will find them in the shops near Rajwara, Laskar and Patankar Bazaar. You can choose from a range of art and craft items like lacquer ware, dolls, handwoven carpets, wall hangings and jewelery which make good gifts to carry home. Gwalior is famous for its Chanderi sarees and if you wish to buy them you should go to the Chowk at Bara.

Fairs and Festivals of Gwalior:

The Tansen Music Festival
Gwalior has special affinity with the classical music and singing. It has been an influence on the Hindustani classical music. Gwalior has retained the strong musical tradition. Tansen the exponent of Dhrupad style, went on to evolve the Gwalior Gharana whose contemporary exponent is the world renowned Sarod player Amjad Ali Khan. As a tribute to Tansen, the great master of classical music, a festival is organised in the month of November/December every year. Renowned musicians from the country gather to give performance during the festival.

Climate of Gwalior:
The climate of Gwalior is extreme with hot summers and cold winters. The maximum temperature during the summer months can touch as high as 46°C, while in the winters it can go down to below 5°C.

How to get there:

By Air
Regular flights connect Gwalior with Delhi, Bhopal, Indore and Mumbai.

By Rail
Gwalior is on the Central Railway's main Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Chennai lines. Among other major trains, the Taj and Shatabdi Expresses connect Gwalior with Delhi and Agra.

By Road
Gwalior is connected by regular bus services with Agra, Mathura, Jaipur, Delhi, Lucknow, Bhopal, Chanderi, Indore, Jhansi, Khajuraho, Rewa, Ujjain and shivpuri.

For more details on Gwalior Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Ahmedabad Travel Guide

2007-05-22T04:15:00.000-07:00

Ahmedabad is the largest city in the state of Gujarat and the seventh-largest urban agglomeration in India, with a population of almost 51 lakhs (5.1 million). Located on the banks of the River Sabarmati, the city is the administrative centre of Ahmedabad district, and was the capital of Gujarat from 1960 to 1970; the capital was shifted to Gandhinagar thereafter. The city is sometimes called Karnavati, a name for an older town that existed in the same location; in colloquial Gujarati, it is commonly called Amdavad.

Places to see in Ahmedabad:

Gandhi Aashram
Located near vadaj the Sabarmati Aashram was once house of Mahatma Gandhi. The ashram was founded by Mahatma Gandhi in 1915, and today without doubt it is the biggest tourist attraction in Ahmedabad. It lies on the tranquil stretch of the Sabarmati river and was referred to as the Satyagraha Ashram during the lifetime of the Mahatma. It was from here, that the Mahatma began his famous 'Dandi March' in 1930 to protest against the Salt Tax imposed by the British. One can see the three wise monkeys and many more of Gandhiji's teachings at the ashram premises.

Akshardham
It is a unique cultural complex built in Gandhinagar in memory of Lord Swami Narayan. It is an intricately carved, majestic monument built of 6000 tons of pink sand stones. The entire monument was built without the use of steel and consists of a 7 feet gold leafed idol of Lord Swami Narayan and his holy relics.

Calico Museum
This one-of-a-kind museum housed in a carved wooden haveli boasts of an amazing collection of antique and modern textiles. Its repertoire includes rare tapestries, wall hangings and costumes and also some older weaving machines. The collection of the museum dates back to the 17th century and it also has an excellent reference library on textiles. Closed on Wednesdays and bank holidays, this museum is not to be missed.

Sidi Sayed Mosque
Sidi Sayed Mosque is unique for its exquisite screens, which are praised for their amazing Jhali screen, framed, in the ten semi-circular windows. The screen carved out of one rock is just exceptional. A visit to this superb and outstanding example of delicate carving is an absolute must.

Jama Masjid
Is one of the finest mosques in India with 260 pillars supporting 15 domes at different elevations. Built by Ahmad Shah in 1423, the Masjid is located in the center of the old city.

Kankaria Lake
It is a circular lake constructed in 1451 by Sultan Qutub-ud-Din. In the center of the lake is an island garden with a summer palace known as Nagina Wadi.

Fairs and Festivals in Ahmedabad:

Makar Sankranti
Makar Sankranti or kite festival held on the 14th January, the, marks the end of winter and return of the sun to northern hemisphere and is hence named "Uttar ayan". On this particular day everybody in Ahmedabad starts the day with kite flying and continues into the night by attaching lamps to kites so one can see them in the sky.

Rath Yatra
Rath Yatra In the months of June or July a massive procession takes place from the Jagannath (Juggernaut) temple in Ahmedabad. Amidst the chanting of the sacred and Vedic hymns, a sacred chariot is taken out carrying idols Krishna, Balram and Subhadra. If in the area, this shouldn’t be missed. Don’t forget you camera!

Tarnetar Festival
Tarnetar Festival August or September Just 3 hours drive from Ahmedabad, Tarnetar, a quiet hamlet is transformed into a whirl of colour & excitement in the first week of Bhadrapad. The Tarnetar fair is one of the most colourful events in Gujarat & is attended by various tribes of Gujarat. During the festival match making is celebrated over 3 days and 2 nights. It’s another fun filled festival worth viewing.

Shopping in Ahmedabad
Shopping in Ahmedabad is fun wandering through this city of fabrics and curios with a strong old world charm. Premier shopping areas in Ahmedabad are C.G.Road, Ashram Road, Law Garden, and Relief Road. The Khadi Gram Udyog Emporiums, Hastkala, Kapasi Handicrafts Emporium, Saurashtra Emporium, and Bandhej are some of the places where one can get cotton garments, handicrafts, and curios. Gurjari, the Gujarat State Crafts Emporium, has some of the best products not only from Ahmedabad but also from Gujarat. Teen Darwaja in old city, once a great place for antique, will be a fascinating shopping experience if one has the time and inclination for bargaining.

How to get there:

By Air
Ahmedabad airport is 10 km north of the city and has both the domestic and international terminal.

By Rail
Ahmedbad has direct train services to major cities in India.

By Road
Ahmedabad has good highways connecting it to all major places in Gujarat and other states. Interstate buses of different states of India provide services to and from Ahmedabad.

For more details on Ahmedabad Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Rajkot Travel Guide

2007-05-21T00:43:00.000-07:00

Once the capital of the princely state of Saurashtra, Rajkot was founded by Vibhoji, the younger son of Ajoji. It is the town where Mahatma Gandhi spent the early years of his life. The city, also a former British government headquarters, has a number of impressive colonial buildings and educational institutions. It is famous for silver, textiles and a National weaving institute which promotes traditional weaves. The pleasant town is an important industrial area and a religious centre of the Arya Samaj.

It is best known as the town where Mahatma Gandhi spent the early years of his life when his father was a Diwan or Prime Minister to the king of Saurashtra. Today Rajkot is a city vibrant with business activities and one of the major cities of Gujarat..

Places to see in Rajkot:

Kaba Gandhi No Delo
Kaba Gandhi No Delo is the house where Mahatma Gandhi grew up. It now holds a permanent exhibition of Gandhian items. It is within the old city on Ghee Kanta Road.

Race Course
Race course has various sports facilities like Olympic standard Indoor Stadium, International quality Cricket ground, Football, Hockey & Volleyball grounds, Gym and swimming pool etc. Because of all these attractions, Race Course is the most common place to be visited by the "Rajkotians". One very interesting fact about Race Course is that it provides an extremely large sitting arrangement of cement benches embedded with the outer border of the ground throughout its periphery, which is rarely seen in any other cities.

Watson Museum and Library
Located in the Jubilee Gardens, the Watson Museum and Library is a memorial dedicated to Colonel James Watson, who was a political agent of Saurashtra from 1886-89. Two imperial lions flank the entrance of the museum. Among the exhibits are copies of artifacts from Mohenjodaro, 13th-century carvings, temple statues, natural history exhibits, and dioramas of local tribal costumes and housing styles.

Alfred School/Mohandas Gandhi Vidyalaya
When Gandhiji's father shifted to Rajkot as Diwan of the local ruler, the young Gandhi was sent to Alfred School in the town, now known as Mohandas Gandhi Vidyalaya. The famous incident of Gandhi not copying the spelling of "kettle", despite his class teacher repeatedly prompting him to do so during the visit of a school inspector, took place here.

Excursions of Rajkot
Five kilometers from Rajkot, is a perfect picnic spot known as Lal Pari Lake and Randerda. The Naulakha Darbagandh Palace famous for its unique architecture is situated forty kilometers from the city in Gondal. About fifty kilometers from the city is the Wankaner palace, which has been turned into a hotel now. Its roman-gothic architecture is very appealing and beautiful. Two-hundred-and-fifty kilometers from the city are Ahmedabad, the capital of the state of Gujarat. 70 KMS from the city, is Jetpur where textile traders from all over the world come into this bustling town for its quality and rates.

Shopping in Rajkot
Rajkot is not yet a major metropolis, but it is has a number of quality malls, where you get all the popular brands. The city has many bazaars exclusively for silverwares and textiles, which are offered at fairly reasonable prices. Make sure to check out the Bandhani sarees, which are made in the city, and are very striking.

Climate
The climate of Rajkot is generally pleasant. The summer season extends from March to June with daytime temperature reaching a high of around 42°C. The monsoons are from July to September. Winter season sets in during October and extends until February. In association with cyclonic storms or depressions in the Arabian Sea in the post-monsoon months, and to a lesser extent in May and June, Rajkot experiences strong winds and heavy rain.

Thunderstorms occur in June and July. In the cold season occasional fog occurs. The summer temperature ranges from 24°C to 42°C and winter temperature ranges from 10°C to 24°C. The average annual rainfall is around 276 mm.

How to get there:

By Air
Indian Airlines connects Rajkot with Bombay and Vayudoot connects Rajkot with Bombay and Kandla. East West Airlines also operate flight from Bombay-Rajkot.

By Rail
Rajkot is a junction on the Western Railway broad gauge line.

By Road
Rajkot to : Bombay 798 km, Ahmedabad 218 km, Junagadh 98 km, Jamnagar 86 km, Dwarka 238 km, Porbandar 178 km, Bhavnagar 165 km, Sasangir 155 km. Bus connect Rajkot to all major cities of state.

For more details on Rajkot Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Nashik Travel Guide

2007-05-15T21:42:00.000-07:00

Nashik attracts thousands of pilgrims annually because of the sanctity of the Godavari River, which is called the Ganges of the south and also because of the legend that Ram, the hero of the Ramayana epic, had spent most of his banishment tenure here, with his wife Sita and his brother Lakshman.

Like Ujjain this is the site for the triennial Kumbh Mela which comes here every 12 years. The riverbanks are lined with steps above which stand temples and shrines. Although there are no particularly notable temples in Nashik the Sundar Narayan Temple, to the west of the city, is worth seeing.

Places to see in Nashik

• Kala Ram Mandir
The largest and simplest of the temples is Kalaram Mandir, built in 1790 by Sardar Odhekar of Peshwa. It houses a black stone image of Rama, hence the name. The temple is made by complete black stones, which has four doors facing East, West, South and North and the apex made up of 32 tons of gold. In 1930, Dr. Ambedkar performed Satyagraha, to allow the entry of Harijans into the temple.

• Sita Gumpha
The Gumpha is near the five Banyan trees in Panchavati. One can enter the cave with the help of a very narrow staircase. The cave has the idol of Shree Ram, Laxman and Sita. To the left, one can enter into the cave having the Shiva Linga. Devotees believe that Ravan kidnapped Sita from the same place.

• Shirdi
Shirdi is a very sacred and important place of pilgrimage in India. It is about 100 km drive from Nashik. Shirdi was a sleepy little village, tucked away in the interiors of Maharashtra and got famous because the sage Sai Baba. He was the mentor and prophet. Even today the last few surviving elders of the village vividly recall the miraculous wonders of the sage. He died in 1918. people from all the religion have faith in the saint and throng the place for his blessings.

• Pandav Caves
The Pandav Caves are located on a tableland on Trivashmi Hill. Built by Jain kings these Caves are around 2000 years old. There are some 24 Caves that were home to Jain saints such as Tirthankara Vrishabdeo, Veer Manibhadraji, and Ambikadevi. There are sculptures of the Buddha and bodhisattvas as well. The cave complex consists of large Caves, which were probably the meeting place of disciples.

• Panchavati
Northern part of Nashik is known as Panchavati as River Godavari flows. There are five Banyan (Vat) trees and hence the area is called Panchavati. It is believed that Lord Shri Ram and Sita along with Lakshman stayed at Panchavati for some time. Infact it was here that Sita spotted the golden deer and was abducted by the demon king Ravan. People believe that she was abducted from the Sita Gumpha. This is a small cave underneath a banyan tree. One can enter the cave with the help of a narrow staircase. The cave has the idol of Shree Ram,
Lakshman and Sita. Thus Panchavati gained lot of importance.

Shopping in Nashik
The main visitors of this city are religious pilgrims, so the markets pay more attention to their needs. So, it is one of the best places to buy items of religious significance little bronze statues and beaded necklaces. The city is a good place for jewelry lovers, as the prices are reasonable.

How to Get There:

By Air
Nearest airport from Nashik is at Mumbai, 185-km away from the city.

By Rail
Nashik Road is one of the major stations on Central Railway. Nashik is well connected with Mumbai, Delhi, Calcutta, Varanasi and Aurangabad.

By Bus
Nashik is well connected by road. There are also several private and state buses available between Mumbai/Thane and Nashik.

For more details on Nashik Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Darjeeling Travel Guide

2007-05-13T23:48:00.000-07:00

Darjeeling - the name is derived from the Tibetian word 'Dorje' which means the precious stone or ecclesiastical sceptre, which is emblematic of the thunderbolt of Indra, and 'ling' - a place, hence the land of the thunderbolt. The sceptre of Indra is believed to have fallen at a place where now stands the Observatory Hill.

Darjeeling is one of the most beautiful Hill Stations in India coming under the state of West Bengal. It is a famous hill resort offering a breath taking sight of the numerous peaks of the majestic Himalayas. The clouds seem to whisper to one another here and from horizon to horizon stretches the Kanchanjunga, covered with snow from the head to foot all round the year. The views of Kanchanjunga and Mount Everest are particularly inspiring. And viewing Sun rise is wonderful from the famous Tiger hill. The Himalayan physiography of lofty mountainous terrain and cascading rivers, offers adventure sports trekking, mountaineering and river rafting.

Places to see in Darjeeling:

Tiger Hill
Situated at an altitude of 2590 metres (8482 ft.) and 13 kms from the town, this spot has earned international fame for the magnificent view of the sunrise over "Kanchenjunga" and the great Eastern Himalayan Mountains. Even Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, is visible from here.

The Mall
The Mall is Darjeeling's popular commercial street. It is lined with Tibetans selling hand-knitted sweaters and souvenir shops chock-full of Himalayan artifacts and both real and imitation antiques. Photo shops carry turn-of-the-century photos as well as specialising in hand-painted black and white prints with glowing oil colours. The Mall leads to Chaurasta, a square, which doubles as a bandstand, a pony riding arena for children and a haven for lovers.

Batasia Loop
About 5 kms from Darjeeling, this Railway Loop is a marvellous feat of engineering. It is fascinating to watch the toy train wind its way round the loop. The War Memorial constructed in the memory of brave sons of Darjeeling who died in different action since 1947, is worth a visit. A glorious view of snowy peak and town can be seen from this place.

Chowrasta
The Chowrasta, meaning crossroad, is a hive of commercial activity. The Mall Road originates and culminates at the Chowrasta. This is the heart of Victorian Darjeeling. Here hotels, restaurants and shops brush against each other. The shops and stalls are a veritable paradise for souvenir collectors. The Bhutanese sellers display their wares. Woollen garments, tribal ornaments, Thankas, rosaries, brass statuettes and Gorkha daggers are kept on display for sale. Foreign goods are also available in some shops. Local handicrafts are much in demand.

Kanchenjunga
ViewKanchenjunga View from Darjeeling one can have the best, uninterrupted view of the worlds third highest peak. Bhan Bhakta Sarani provides one of the enthralling views of these snow capped peaks. The Chowrasta also gives you a good sight to the Kanchenjunga peak.

Fair and Festivals in Darjeeling:
The festivals which are celebrated in Darjeeling are:-

• Lepcha/Bhutia New Year's Day
It is celebrated in the 1st week of January during Makar Sankranti when the colorful fairs are held along the Teest River.

• Losar Tibetan New Year's Day
It is celebrated in February. Colorful Tibetan folk-dances are
staged in monasteries on this day.

• Durga Puja/Dussehra
Goddess Durga is worshipped and beautiful images of her are immersed in the water after taking them in colorful processions.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit this hill station is between April and June and September and December. The summer temperature hovers between 14° C and 8° Celsius and the winter temperatures fall to a freezing 6°C to 1° Celsius. So be sure carry woollens when you visit.

How to get There:

By Air
The nearest airport is at Bagdogra, 90 km away from Darjeeling. Bagdogra is connected to important cities of the country by domestic airlines.

By taxi
Siliguri is the nearest town. Ample transport is available to Darjeeling from here. The most popular modes of transport are taxi (usually shared by 3-4 passengers), share jeep (10 passengers).

By bus
There is a regular bus service from Silguri to Darjeeling.

By train
New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in Siliguri is the nearest station on the main inter-city line. From there, a 'toy train' completes the journey to Darjeeling. This route is very popular with tourists as in passes through some very picturesque mountain scenery and has been the subject of many romantic articles. Trains depart at 9AM and arrive in Darjeeling at 7pm.

For more details on Darjeeling Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Mysore Travel Guide

2007-05-08T00:19:00.000-07:00

Mysore is the second biggest city in the State of Karnataka lying 130 kms from the State Headquarters, Bangalore. Mysore is said to have derived its name from this the demon-king, Mahishasura, who once lived here and was vanquished by Goddess Chamundi. It is a city of palaces, gardens, and sacred temples. The city is famous for its silk and is also a thriving sandalwood and incense centre.

This lovely city will cover you up under a spell of sandalwood as soon as you set foot in it. Besides that, it is also the paradise for incense lovers. Whatever sort of scent you're looking for, there is a vendor stall thats sells it. What Varanasi is to the north of India when it comes to silk, Mysore is to the south. Several streets are lined with silk emporia where you can buy nice pieces of silk and then you can go to a tailor and let them have a go at it.

Places to See in Mysore:

• Srirangapatnam
About 15 km from the royal city of Mysore lies the town of Srirangapatnam. There are many interesting places here of which the summer palace of Tipu Sultan is a must visit. Built in 1784 in the Indo-Saracenic style, the palace also has a small museum where Tipu's trivia, including a gold-embroidered tunic, old paintings and a coin collection, are displayed. A little away from the palace is the Gumbaz, the mausoleum of Tipu Sultan and his father, Hyder Ali. Another famous place to visit is Jami Masjid. The slender minarets of this mosque are visible from several kilometers.

• Mysore Palace
The Mysore Palace was built over one thousand years ago, in 897 AD. Saracenic in style, the palace has both Hindu as well as Muslim influences. After a fire in 1897, Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV rebuilt the palace as we see it today, under the supervision of architect Henry Irwin. The main building is of massive gray granite with a tower covered by a gilded dome. A temple is situated within the royal courtyard.

• Brindavan Garden
This garden is situated 19 km northwest of Mysore. The garden is open daily, but the fountain show is held only in spring. The main attraction is the 'dancing musical fountains'. The garden is fully illuminated during the night.

• Chamundi Hill
The temple on the hill, which is 2000 years old, is dedicated to Durga Devi or goddess Chamundi (avatar of Parvathi, Shiva's consort) for celebrating her victory over the demon Mahishasura. From the top of hill you can have a panoramic view of Mysore. There is a giant statue of Mahishasura, the demon who was killed by the goddess Chamundi (Durga Devi) near the temple. Halfway up the hill an ornamented monolithic statue of the Nandi Bull can be found.

• Government Silk Weaving Factory
The Maharaja of Mysore created this factory in 1932 to obtain the finest hand-loomed silks for himself and his royal family. Today the Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation runs it. Here you can see craftsmen at work and also buy silk, fresh from the looms.

• Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery
Shri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery was established in 1875 and has a rare collection of some beautiful paintings from the same era. The gallery is located in Jagmohan Palace and exhibits paintings by Raja Ravi Varma, Svetsolav Roerich and traditional paintings from Mysore.

Excursions of Mysore:

• Somnathpur
Thirty-five kilometers east of Mysore lies Somnathpur, a town famous for the temple built by the Hoysala kings. The beautiful building of the Keshava temple built in 1268 is the major attraction here. The walls of this star-shaped temple are covered with sculptures in stone depicting various scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and the Bhagavad Gita and the life and times of the Hoysala Kings.

• Belur
One of the three major Hoysala temples still in daily use today is the Channekeshava Temple of Belur. The construction of the temple, which took almost a century, was started in 1116 to commemorate the Hoysalas' victory over the Cholas. Enclosed in a paved compound, the temple complex includes a well and a bathing tank. It is believed that every major deity of the Hindu pantheon is represented in the temple.

• Bandipur
On the way to Ooty, about 80 km off Mysore, is situated the Bandipur National Park. The park, spread over an area of 875 km, is a famous tiger reserve. Besides tiger, the other animals you can see here are the barking deer, tuskers, and bison.

Shopping Attractions:
The Mysore shopping highlights are sandalwood products, oil, and fine silk fabrics featuring the hand-woven silk sarees and garments along with rosewood and sandalwood handicrafts, copperware, stoneware, brassware, wooden furniture, sandalwood powder, perfumes and lacquer ware. Sayaji Rao Road is the best market place of the town. However, during the festival season, wares from all over the country are available here.

How to get There:

By Air
The nearest airport is Bangalore that is a mere 140km away. All domestic airlines are operating flights to and from Bangalore to all major cities of the country. A few international flights to the Middle East are also operated from Bangalore.

By Rail
There are many train services operating between Bangalore and Mysore. The Shatabdi Express connects Mysore to Chennai. The ideal route to reach Mysore is via Bangalore.

By Road
State Highways connect Mysore to the national Highways and to all parts of the country. Bus services by Karnataka Road Transport Corporation and transport corporations of the neighboring states as well as private tour operators make it easy to reach the city without any difficulty. It is only a 3 hour journey from Bangalore.

For more details on Mysore Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Mussoorie Travel Guide

2007-05-06T23:31:00.000-07:00

Mussoorie is a hill station, situated on a horse-shoe shaped ridge in the Shivalik mountain range on the foothills of the Himalayas, about 2,500m above sea level. It is one of the most beautiful cities in India. Due to its immense natural beauty, Mussoorie is known as the queen of hill stations. The name, Mussoorie, is derived from plants of 'Mussoorie' which were found in abundance here. After its discovery, this hill station gradually developed as a center of education, business, tourism and beauty.

Mussoorie is famous for its serenity and scenic beauty, and it is well know for it’s colonial era feel that it’s maintained over the years through its architecture. Mussoorie is also famous for its world renowned educational institutions and training institutes, like the Indian Administrative Services (IAS) and Indian Police Services (IPS). Mussoorie also boasts Ruskin Bond the popular author as one of its famous residents.

Places to see in Mussoorie:

• Gun Hill
Gun Hill is the second highest point in Mussoorie and offers the best view of the valley below. The ropeway ride from the Mall to this hill (Rs 25) is sheer exhilaration. A bird's eye-view of Mussoorie town, Doon Valley and the Bunderpunch, Srikantha, Pithwara and Gangotri group of the Himalayas can be seen from here. One can also approach Gun Hill from a pathway, which forks off from the Mall Road near Kutchery. It takes about 20 minutes to reach the top.

• Municipal Gardens
The municipal or the Company gardens was previously (before independence) was also known as Botanical gardens of Mussoorie. These gardens were laid by famous geologist Dr. H. Fackner in the last century.

• Cloud’s End
18 km away from Mussoorie, this is the most appropriate place for honeymooners. Originally a bungalow built in 1838 by a British Major, Cloud's End has now been converted into a hotel. The resort is surrounded by lush forests and houses a wide variety of flora and fauna, besides offering a panoramic view of snow clad Himalayas and the Yamuna River.

• Tibetan Temple
This temple is located in Happy valley area of Mussoorie. Both Company gardens and Tibetan temple can be seen in one day. They are located one kilometer from Lal Bahadur Shastri National Administrative Academy. The Tibetan temple is evidence to rich Tibetan cultural heritage. This temple is sure to attract attention of tourists.

• Bhadraj Temple
About 15 kms. from Mussoorie, it is ideal spot for trekking via Park Toll - Clouds end, Dudhi. Situated on the extreme western region of Mussoorie town, Bhadraj offers a commanding view of Doon Valley. Chakrata ranges and Jaunsar Bhabar area can be viewed from here. Bhadraj temple is dedicated to Lord Bal Bhadra, brother of Lord Krishna.

• Nag Devta Temple
An ancient temple dedicated to Snake God Lord Shiva and is situated on Cart Mackenjee road is about 6 kms from Mussoorie on way to Dehradun. Vehicles can go right upto the temple. Place provies a enchanting view of Mussoorie & Doon valley.

• Childer's Lodge
Take a horse to the highest peak of Mussoorie near Lal Tibba. Only about 5 km from Mussoorie, you could even take a leisurely walk up to the top. The breath-taking view from up here is worth the climb.

Shopping in Mussoorie
Mussoorie is famous for wooden decorative and gift items. But one can also bargain brass statues and ceramic vases. Some good showrooms are located on the Mall where one can look for wooden boxes, brass statues, Tibetan Prayer wheels and vases. The hand carved oakwood walking sticks are also popular among tourists. In the markets, photographs can be clicked wearing a dazzling Garhwali Dress. To be photographed in Garhwali garb against a painted Himalayan range makes a wonderful picture.

Climate
Mussoorie is a hill station which has pleasant climate around the year. It is a very cool place with greenery at its full bloom during September to November. The best seasons to visit Mussoorie are between April to June and again during September to November. When the plains of North India experience heat waves, Mussoorie provides a welcome break. September - November is spring time here. During this season Himalayas are clearly visible. It is better to avoid monsoons as the roads to Mussoorie are in bad shape. Same thing applies for the winter when roads are blocked due to snowfall.

How to reach there:

By Air
Indian Airlines has five flights a week from Delhi to the Jolly Grant Airport. Airport: Jolly Grant is the nearest functioning airport, at a distance of 59 km.

By Rail
Dehradun is connected to major cities with super-fast trains such as the Mussoorie Express, the Bombay Doon Express, Calcutta-Howrah-Doon Express and Gorakhpur-Doon Express. The Shatabdi Express leaves New Delhi every day except Thursdays. Railway station: Dehradun, 34 km away, serves as the railhead for Mussoorie.

By Road
There are several buses from Delhi to this hill station, both private and state-run. From Dehradun to Mussoorie, one can hire cabs or take any of the buses plying from just outside the Dehradun Railway Station. If travelling from Jammu, Saharanpur is the convenient place to catch a bus directly to Mussoorie. The road from Delhi is well maintained and the 269 km journey can be completed in six hours.

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Nainital Travel Guide

2007-05-03T23:07:00.000-07:00

Nainital is referred to in the ‘Manas Khand’ of the ‘Skanda Purana’ as the Tri-Rishi-Sarovar, the lake of the three sages , Atri, Pulastya and Pulaha, who were reputed to have arrived here on a penitential piligrimage and finding no water to quench their thirst dug a hole and siphoned water into it from Mansarovar lake in Tibet.

In Indian mythology, Nainital is regarded as one of the 64 'Shakti Peeths'. Legend has it that a grief stricken Lord Shiva was carrying Sati's body and one of her eyes fell here. The Nainital Lake is shaped like an eye and the town derived its name from the combination of Nain (eye) and Tal (lake). The Naina Devi temple is located at one end of the lake.

Places to see in Nainital:

• Naina Peak
Known as the China peak this peak is the highest point in Nainital. From here Nainital appears as a bowl. You can walk or take ponies to the peak. From this peak you can capture the exciting views of Nainital. Naina peak also gives a good view of the Camelback peak. There is no hotel or restaurant on the top so carry food and water along with yourself.

• Snow View
This popular vantage point offers an excellent view of the northern Himalayan ranges. The point is accessible by a chair lift (ropeway) or you can hire horses and mountain ponies to reach there. One can also have a close up view of Nanda Devi, one of the highest peaks in the country.

• Bhowali
Bhowali is 11 kms away from Nainital on the Haldwani-Almora Road. It is quite famous as a market known for its variety of fruits. It also houses the famous Sainik School of India. This place is said to be good for those patients who ail from problems of the lungs. There is also a Sanatorium here.

• Zoo Gardens
Nainital has a small but a very beautiful Zoological garden. There are many animals kept here which includes Deers, Bears, Tigers and many more. The hygiene and cleanness of the zoo is a point which attracts the mind even if one ignores it. Not surprising this zoo is one of the most clean zoos in the country. The zoo can be reached on foot or taxi can be hired.

• Hanuman Garhi
Three kilometers south of Tallital lies Hanuman Garhi, where there is a small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The place is also a good spot for viewing the setting sun.

• St. John's Church
This church was built in 1847. A brass memorial is kept in memory of the persons who were buried in the infamous landslide. The few bodies which could be dug out were buried in the church premises.

Excursions in Nainital:

Corbett National Park115 km (via Kaladhungi)
This is one of India's best known wildlife sanctuaries. Commemorating the celebrated hunter- conservator Jim Corbett, it spreads over 526 sq km of forested area. The wildlife here consists of tiger, panther, wild bear, sloth bear, elephants, deer python, and crocodiles among others. An astonishing number (585) of bird species have been spotted in the park.

Sat Tal (Seven Lakes)
On the way from Nainital to Bhimtal is a group of seven lakes called the Sattal. Nature has really provided this place beauty in abundance. There is government Bunglow where you can spend the night. Taxis and buses are available to Sattal from Nainital. It is 22 Km from Nainital.

Bhimtal
The myth goes that the lake was built during the Mahabharata era. You can get taxis and buses at regular interval from Nainital. On the Nainital-Bhimtal road is Mahra Village. Here through the efforts of Dr. Yashodhra Mathpal a rich collection of the cultural and archeological items have been made. These artifacts from the Uttrakhand region give you an insight into the cultural heritage of this area. At Bhimtal you can enjoy boating and have food at the restaurant on the island in middle of the lake. Bhimtal is 23 kms from Nainital and there are good accommodation facilities at the place.

Naukuchia Lake
Just four kms from Bhimtal is lake with nine corners hence it is known as the Naukutchia lake. This is an ideal place to spend your holidays and relax. The lake is full of lotus and is surrounded by forest with a backdrop of the mountains, all this creates an ideal condition to enjoy boating in here or sit on the banks and feel the breeze coming from the lake. There are regular bus and taxi services to this place and the Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam has got its rest house where you can stay.

How to Get there:

By Air
The nearest airport is at Pant nagar, 71 km away. It is connected by Vayudoot services with Delhi. A coach takes the tourists to Nainital. Taxis are also available.

By Train
The nearest railhead is at Kathgodam, 35 km away. Nainital is connected by rail to Delhi, Agra, Bareilly and Lucknow. Taxis and buses are available from Kathgodam to Nainital.

By Road
Nainital is connected by good, all-weather roads to Delhi (322 km), Bareilly (141 km), Almora (66 km) and Ranikhet (60 km).

For more details on Nainital Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Lucknow Travel Guide

2007-05-01T04:18:00.000-07:00

Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, is located on the banks of the Gomti River. Lucknow could be termed the cultural center of northern India where people are too polite and have their own charming culture and tradition, difficult to find elsewhere. The beautiful city with parks, palaces, gardens and imposing architectural monuments, Lucknow became one of the most celebrated centers of Oriental opulence, music, dance, drama, poetry and scholarship during its glorious days of Nawabs (1775 AD - 1856 AD). The land of endearing 'Pehle Aap' Tehzeeb (culture), Lucknow is also renowned for its silks, perfumes, jewelry, mouth-watering cuisines, and nawabi etiquettes.

The peace and prosperity under the governance of the nawabs brought about a cultural renaissance in Avadh. Musicians and dancers flocked to Lucknow giving birth to new musical forms and instruments under the patronage of the royalty. Art form like Kathak, Thumri, Khayal, Dadra, Qawalis, Ghazals and Shero Shairi saw their finest hour. In this era major stress was laid on even minor detail like the art of dressing, apparels (libaas) and jewelry all symbolic of a genteel lifestyle.

Places of Tourist Attraction:

Bara Imambara
Built in 1784 by the fourth Nawab of Oudh, Asaf-ud-Daula, the Bara Imambara is Lucknow’s most famous monument. An Imambara is where Muslims commence celebrations for the festival of Muharram. The main hall of the Imambara is 50m long and 15m high, without any pillars to support its ceiling. A balcony runs along the inside of the hall which is built in such a way that even the faintest whisper anywhere in it can be heard across the hall. A labyrinth called Bhool Bhullaiyya adjoins the main hall on the first floor. Towards the left of the main building is a baoli (step-well) connected by tunnels to the river, Gomti. Legend has it that a great treasure lies undiscovered in these tunnels. Within the Bara Imambara compound are mausoleums of Asaf-ud-Daula and his family.

Clock Tower
Opposite the Husainabad Imambara is the 67 metre high clock tower and the Husainabad Tank. The clock tower was built between 1880 and 1887.

Picture Gallery
Also facing the Husainabad Tank is a baradari or summer house, also built by Ali Shah. Now restored it houses portraits of the various Nawabs of Oudh.

Jami Masjid
West of the Husainabad Imambara is the great Jami Masjid mosque. One of Lucknow's few buildings of real architectural merit it has two minarets and three domes. Construction was commenced by Muhammad Ali Shah but completed after his death. This is one of the few mosques in India which is not open to non-Moslems.

British Residency
The Residency became the stronghold of the British for 87 days during the Revolt of 1857, and is now in ruins. Within its walls are numerous stories related to the siege, when 3,000 British men, women and children escaped from their homes to seek refuge in these red brick buildings. They fought Indian sepoys, the blistering heat and disease, until Sir Colin Campbell defeated the Indian forces on November 17. Only 1,000 of those who had taken shelter in the Residency survived. What remains of the Residency has now been converted into government offices and a museum. Within the complex are graves of British soldiers who died fighting the Indian troops.

Husainabad Imambara
Also known as the Chota or 'small' Imambara, it was built by Muhammad Ali Shah in 1837 to serve as his own mausoleum. This white-domed mausoleum boasts chandeliers, gilded mirrors, colorful stucco, and replicas of the tombs at Karbala. The large courtyard encloses a raised rectangular tank with small imitations of the Taj Mahal on each side. One of them is the tomb of Muhammad Ali Shah's daughter, the other that of her husband. The main building of the Imambara is topped with numerous domes, the main one is golden, and minarets, while inside are the tombs of Ali Shah and his mother.

Lucknow Shopping
Lucknow shopping is a paradise for bargain lovers, literally. It doesn’t have many malls or fancy showrooms, but has many bazaars where you can get pretty good deals if you’re willing to bargain. The Chowk and Aminabad are the famous bazaars in the city. You get antiques at fairly lower prices, but bargaining is a must. One of the posh streets and markets of Lucknow is the Heritage Hazratganj, full of high-end hotels and shops. You can get the latest fashions and handicrafts on this glittering street.

How to Get There:

Air
Indian Airlines connects Lucknow with Delhi, Patna, Calcutta and Mumbai.

Rail
Lucknow is an important junction of the Northern and North Eastern Railways of India.

Road
Lucknow is well connected with some major cities like Agra (363 km), Allahabad (225 km), Calcutta (985 km), Delhi (497 km), Kanpur (79 km) and Varanasi (305 km)

For more details on Lucknow Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Mathura Travel Guide

2007-04-29T23:34:00.000-07:00

Mathura is situated on the west bank of river Yamuna in Uttar Pradesh and is famous as the birthplace of Lord Krishna, an important deity in the Hindu religious pantheon. Mathura is an important pilgrimage center of the Hindus and one of the seven sacred cities in India.

History
Mathura is one of the few cities of India, which has been mentioned both in history and mythology. On the mythological front, since Mathura is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna so it is full of stories of Lord Krishna. In the Dwapara Yuga, Shri Krishna was born as the eighth son of the Yadava prince Vasudeva and his wife Devaki, cousin sister of Kansa who was the ruler of Mathura. Kansa had heard a voice in the sky telling him that the eighth child of Devaki would kill him. Fearing his death he imprisoned Devaki and Vasudeva and killed their seven children. To save the eighth child from the murderous intentions of his maternal uncle, the infant Krishna soon after birth was spirited to Gokul. Krishna grew up in Vrindavan to kill Kansa.

Places to see in Mathura:

Shri Krishna Janmbhoomi
A temple marks the birthplace of Lord Krishna today. A narrow passage leads one into a small room with a raised platform adorned with pictures of Krishna as a child to the left. The story of His birth is written and depicted on the walls. A narrow set of marble steps leads you to the terrace and a walled corridor creates the effect of a prison. The prison and the other buildings were razed to the ground in the 17th century but were restored in 1962 by industrialists like G.D. Birla.

Dwarkadish Temple
Situated to the north of Mathura, built in 1815 this temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. A staunch and wealthy devotee, Seth Gokuldas Parikh, built it with lots of enchanting paintings and beautiful carvings. During the festivals Holi, Janmashtami and Diwali this temple is decorated gorgeously.

Radharamana Temple
When the soldiers of the fanatical Muslim Emperor Aurangazeb attacked Vrindavan, the original deity of Madana Mohana was taken to Karauli in Rajasthan for safekeeping. Later in a forest, which is the present Vrindavan, this temple was established and it is believed that the Deity self manifested from a Saligram-sila. The presiding deity called as Radharamana, symbolizes as the omnipotent that gives pleasure to Radha his consort. A crown is kept next to the deity signifying Radha's presence.

Rangbhoomi
Rangbhoomi situated opposite to the post office in Mathura, is said to be the wrestling arena where Krishna killed Kansa in a duel. According to Hindu mythology, Kansa had put his father and parents of Lord Krishna in prison and usurped the throne. Krishna killed him and set his parents free reinstating his maternal grandfather Ugrasena on the throne.

Rangaji Temple
This is the largest temple in Vrindavan built in 1854 by Seth Govind Das and the presiding deity is Lord Sri Ranganatha popularly known as Rangaji who is seen lying down on the Sesha Naga (celestial serpent). This South Indian styled temple has exquisite Rajput architecture on its main gate.

Festivals:

Holi
Holi is celebrated in the temples before it is celebrated on the streets, as it is considered auspicious to play with the Lord, first. This festival is preceded by performances that last well over a week. Artists from various parts of the country gather here to perform raas leela, or dance recitals depicting Krishna’s flirtatious interlude with the gopis, or the village maidens. Gayan mandalis, or singing troupes that render folk songs particularly associated with Holi, flock to this place. The artistic exuberance associated with the festival is termed as Rang Gulal.

Janmashtami
Of course, the most important festival is Janmashtami. The birth of Shri Krishna is celebrated with great pomp and splendour. The Raaslila is enacted recreating the many legends of Shri Krishna's life - his exploits and his amorous dalliances with the gopis. Ceremonies in the temples at midnight include the bathing of the image of infant Krishna which is then placed in a silver cradle. Songs of devotion are sung and toys offered for the amusement of the divine child. Thousands gather to offer their prayers and Mathura is astir with their devotion and celebrations.

How to Get There:

Air
Nearest airport is Kheria (Agra), 62 km.

Rail
Mathura is on the main lines of the Central and Western Railways and is connected with all the important cities of the state and country such as Delhi, Agra, Mumbai, Jaipur, Gwalior, Calcutta, Hyderabad, Chennai, Lucknow etc.

Road
Mathura is connected to all the major cities, by National Highways. It is linked by the regular state bus services of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Haryana.

For more details on Mathura Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Bhubaneswar Travel Guide

2007-04-27T01:14:00.000-07:00

Bhubaneswar, the capital of Orissa is known as the temple town due to its many temples in the extravagant Orissan architectural style. At one time the Bindusagar tank had over 7000 temples around it. Today there are about 500 but most of these are just decayed fragments. Perhaps a dozen are of real interest including the great Lingaraj Temple, one of the most important temples in India.

Places to see in Bhubaneswar:
Bhubaneswar, "The abode of the Lord of the World" and the gateway to Orrisa, has slowly started to unbosom its mysteries for the past few years. Tour around the splendid Lingaraj Temple, ancient Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves and enjoy a superb boating experience at the Chilka lake and Taptapani excursions. Once called the Kalinga or Utkala, this city now boasts of cool avenues, upscale hotels, shopping malls and excellent dining out options.

Dhauli Giri
Just 8 km away from Bhubaneswar looking down on the plains that bore witness to the gruesome war waged on Kalinga by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka, stand the rock edicts of Dhauli. It was here that King Ashoka, full of remorse after the Kalinga War in 261 BC, renounced his blood-thirsty campaign and turned to Buddhism. Ashoka erected two main edicts in Kalinga, one in Dhauli and the other in Jayagarh. The principles of Ashoka which reflect his compassion were inscribed on all the other edicts in his empire except Kalinga. This is in sharp contrast to all of his other edicts and proof of his political acumen. The edicts are so remarkable that they have been excellently preserved, despite the fact that they date back to the 3rd century BC.

Lingaraj Temple
Dedicated to the Lord Vishnu and Shiv Linga, the Lingaraj temple is one of Orrisa's famous temples, notable for the symmetrical sculptures carved on its 45m high spire. The deity of Lingaraj is an uncarved block of granite 8 feet in diameter raised 8 inches above the ground and is bathed daily with milk, water and bhang (marijuana). Plan your trip during March-April to enjoy the joyous four-day chariot festival, when Lingaraj is drawn on his chariot to Rameswara temple.

Bindusagar
Bindusagar or "Ocean Drop" is a tank placed north of the Lingaraj temple and is said to contain water from every river, lake and holy stream of India brought by Lord Shiva. Taking a bath here and drinking the water of this pool is said to cure any disease of the stomach. A famous pilgrimage site for Indians, the tank is surrounded by numerous temples and shrines. The best time to come here is around sunrise.

Khandagiri & Udayagiri
The twin hills of Khandagiri & Udayagiri, 8 km from Bhubaneswar, served as the site of an ancient Jain monastery which was carved into cave like chambers in the face of the hill. Dating back to the 2nd century BC, some of the caves have beautiful carvings. The Rani Gumpha (Queen's Cave), one of the largest and double-storied, is ornately embellished with beautiful carvings. In the Hati Gumpha, King Kharavela has carved out the chronicles of his reign.

Chilka Lake
Situated south of Puri, this 1,100 sq. km shallow lake is Asia's largest salt water lagoon and is separated from the sea only by a narrow sand bar. The lake is peppered with many small rocky islands and is a vast reserve for aquatic flora and fauna. Hire a kayak and look for Irrawaddy dolphins along with Siberian cranes or you can hike through the jungles to discover white sand converging into blue water.

Brahmeswar
About a km east of the main road, Brahmeswar Temple stands in a yard flanked by four smaller streets. The temple from the 9th century. Close by a other temples which are not so great interest. The Bhaskareswar unusual 'stepped' design in order to accommodate an unusually large (three metre) lingam it once contained. The Megheswar is in a courtyard and its shrine entrance is topped by a figure. Beside it there is a tank.

Museum
The museum is opposite the Hotel Ashok Kalinga and has an interesting collection relating to Orissan history, culture and architecture and to the various Orissan tribes. The Tribal Research Bureau is also located here. The museum is open 10 am to 5 pm daily except Mondays.

Ekamra Haat
Located near the exhibition ground, this Haat is a hub for tourists who are interested to get some stuff with Oriya touch along with their unforgettable memoirs. Ekamra Haat is aesthetically designed to create a relaxed ambiance to browse through ethnic handlooms and handicrafts from all over the country. The walls are embellished with attractive terracotta sculptures and vibrant folk paintings.

How to Get There:

Air
Indian Airlines and many private airlines fly on regular basis to Bhubaneswar. Bhubaneswar Airport is 3 km from the city centre and almost all the major cities are connected from here. Indian Airlines has flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkotta, Delhi, Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam and Varanasi.

Rail
Bhubaneswar also have good railway network connecting it to major cities of India Kolkatta, Puri, Bhubaneswar, Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Tirupati.

Road
The national highway no.5 touches this capital city. The main bus stand is at Barmunda, 8 km from the city centre. There are regular interstate bus services from the nearby towns and cities. Inter-state bus services operate daily in between Calcutta and Puri via Bhubaneswar and Bhubaneswar-Tata Nagar.

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Chennai Travel Guide

2007-04-25T23:56:00.000-07:00

Chennai, formerly known as Madras is the capital of the great state Tamil Nadu and is one of the four metropolitan cities in India. This 350 year old city grew up under the huge influence of an English settlement of Fort Saint George and with time absorbed the surrounding towns and villages. However, despite having a British influence, Chennai has been succesful in retaining its traditional Tamil Hindu culture and have been able to provide a unique blend of foreign influence and Indian culture.

People of all religions co-exist in Chennai city. Over a period of time, all religious communities have developed and built their places of worship in different parts of Chennai/Madras. Major religious places of worship at Chennai are temples, churches, Mosques and Dargahs. Let’s have a quick look at different religious places of Chennai.

Places of worship in Chennai:

Temples in Chennai
Temples are the places of worship of the Hindus. Since Hindus form a large part of the population of Chennai, it is but natural that of all the religious places of Chennai, temples are largest in number. Many of the temples of Chennai/Madras city are so popular that thousands of devotees throng them to pray and worship everyday. Lets have a quick glance of temples of Chennai city.

Mosques
Mosques are the places for the worship of the Muslims. The Chennai/Madras city is inhabited by quite a number of Muslims and over a period of time many Mosques developed in the Chennai city. There are many important Mosques in Chennai city. Makka Masjid is one of he important mosques in Chennai city. It can accommodate hundreds of worshippers at a time. Masjid Mamoor is another important mosque, sacred to Muslims of Mannady area in Chennai. It was first built in 18th century. The Grand Mosque, in Red Stone, was built by Nawab Wallajah and is an important Mosque of Chennai. Thousand Lights Mosque is situated in the heart of Chennai city. This is a beautiful cream-colored, multi-domed mosque with walls bearing recently- painted sayings from the Holy Koran.

Dargahs
Dargah is a Muslim shrine, the grave of a Muslim ascetic, where devotees burn incense and pray. Many of these Dargahs in Chennai are venerated and visited by people of different faiths. Some of the famous Dargahs of Chennai/Madras city is Anna Salai Dargah, Hazrat Baba Dargah, Mohammad Ismail Sahib, Qadri Baba Dargah and Thameem Ansari baba Dargah.
Churches in ChennaiIn Chennai city, there are many beautiful and magnificent churches, built over a period of time. Some of the important churches of Chennai/Madras are Anderson Church, Andrew's Kink, Christ Church, Chinnamalai Church, Santhome Cathedral Basilica and St. George's Cathedral.

Excursions from Chennai

Mamallapuram
Sunrise at the shore temple of Mahabalipuram Also known as Mahabalipuram, this ancient sea port was built by Emperor Mahendravarman Pallava in the 7th century. From here ships left for countries in south-east Asia and the Mediterranian carrying not only traders but people who emigrated to countries like Indonesia, Thailand and Combodia. Over the passage of time Mamallapuram ceased to function as a port but its glory lived on in its finished and unfinished temples and monuments. Time and natural forces have wrought changes on the solid rock surface of these monuments but each sculpture and image still succeeds in conveying a message of beauty and harmony.

San Thome Basilica
At the southern tip of Marina is the towering basilica built on the spot where St. Thomas (an apostle of Jesus Christ) was buried. This is the church of the Archbishop of Chennai - pastoral head of the Catholic community in the region. Besides the beauty of its rising spire, this Gothic styled church has a brilliant stained glass depiction of St. Thomas' encounter with the resurrected Christ.

Dakshina Chitra
A reasonably new place presented by the Madras Crafts Foundation as a show piece of different living styles in the South. Contains recreations of Brahmin, Chettinad, a potters, a basket weaver's, a silk weaver's houses along with live representations of their craft. Similarly the Kerala section has a Syrian Christian house, a Menon house etc. Very authentic since the dwellings were actually bought from their places of origin and replanted here. There is an accompanying audio-visual presentation and a little gift shop. Very well done and definitely worth a visit.

Christ the King Church
Designed and built by an Indian mason, commissioned by French clergymen, this fine example of gothic architecture stands proudly in the middle of Loyola College campus. Its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, rose windows, three-aisled nave and the flying butresses are a worthy testament to the Gothic style. The Loyola Chapel was built in 1933. Covering an area of 150 feet by 60 feet, with stained glass windows, this church is a captivating sight, inside as well as outside. The spire is 157 feet high and has a stairway leading to the top, where a cross stands.

Kovalam
A picturesque fishing village en route to Mamallapuram. It has an idyllic, golden beach and a charming luxury hotel beach resort that's been ingeniously integrated with the remains of a fort. The resort offers delicious sea food and facilities' for such watersport as swimming and windsurfing. The ruins of the old fort, an ancient Catholic church and a mosque make interesting viewing.

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Amritsar Travel Guide

2007-04-24T01:05:00.000-07:00

Amritsar is at the epicentre of the Sikh faith, for it is home to the Golden Temple, the holiest of Sikh shrines. For Sikhs it is both a place where Punjab's wealth is on full display, as well as an important pilgrimage. But it is not only Sikhs who come here. People from all faiths come to the Golden Temple, a tribute to the syncretist traditions of a faith whose holy book is a compilation of the writings of men of different faiths. Outside the sacred precincts of the Golden Temple, you can enjoy this chaotic city while you gorge on Punjabi specialities like makki ki roti, sarson da saag and gur da halwa.

Tourist Attraction in Amritsar:

Golden Temple
The Golden Temple in Amritsar is the most exalted of all Sikh shrines, drawing pilgrims from near and far fore centuries. The temple's story began some four centuries ago when the third Sikh Guru Amar Das asked Guru Ram Das (who succeeded him) to build a central place for the congregation of the Sikhs. Guru Arjan Dev completed the work started by Guru Ram Das in the 16th century. The gurdwara has four entrance doors, called deoris, in all four directions-symbolic of the new faith that made no distinction between caste and creed. People could enter and bow in any direction they preferred.

Jallianwala Bagh
Is a peaceful park with picnicking families and college kids, but move to a section of the wall which still has visible bullet marks, and you will be reminded of one of the most horrific events in colonial Indian history. When the Rowlatt Act (1919), which gave the British the power to arrest and imprison Indians without a trial if suspected of sedition, was imposed on Indians it was severely criticised and regular hartals (strikes) were organised to protest the law.

General Dyer had been called to Amritsar to return the city to order. He arrived at the Bagh with 150-armed soldiers, ordered the crowd to disperse and two minutes later inhumanly commanded his troops to open fire. The square was surrounded by high walls and the soldiers had blocked the only entrance (and exit) to the compound. The firing (1650 rounds) continued for about 15 minutes. About 400 people (including children) died while 1500 were left wounded.

Mata Mandir temple
A grand old pious lady developed this Hindu temple situated at Rani ka Bagh, on the lines of holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi at Katra (Jammu), the temple draws crowds of devotees from far and near. Festivals are celebrated with great pomp and show. An evening visit to the temple gives an opportunity to the visitors to observe the life styles of Hindu families.

Ram Bagh
Maharaja Ranjit Singh built this small palace and park in 1819. It lies in the newer, northern part of Amritsar. It used to serve as a summer residence for the philanthropic, one-eyed Maharaja (who rebuilt the Golden Temple) between 1818 and 1837 and now houses the Ranjit Singh museum, which has paintings and weapons dating back to the Mughal period.

Ram Tirath temple
On the outskirts of Amritsar is this significant historic birthplace of Lav and Kush. It is the spot where sage Valmiki's ashram stood and this is a sacred place for the Hindus where we get a glimpse of statues illustrating scenes from the Ramayana.

Wagah Border
The final frontier, Wagah about 28 kms. from Amritsar is the only border crossing between India and Pakistan. It’s an interesting experience especially at sunset when the 'Retreat' ceremony takes place with the BSF on the Indian Side of the Border. The changing of the guards and the ceremonial lowering of the flags ceremony is carried out with great pomp.

Festivals in Amritsar:

Baisakhi
Baisakhi, the festival of spring, is celebrated here every year on 13th of April. It is all the more auspicious because it is on this day that Guru Gobind Singh founded the Khalsa panth. Through out the city the atmosphere is of gaiety and colour. It is believed that wheat crop is also ready for harvesting and on this day, farmers start reaping the harvest for which they have waited patiently. So the occasion is of happiness. The Guru Granth Sahib is read in all the Gurdwaras and a procession is carried out in the city. People enjoy be dancing the Punjabi folk dance bhangra.

Guru Nanak Jayanti
The festival falls in the month of October. The day commemorates the birthday of Guru Nanak Devji Maharaj. The Guru Granth Sahib is read and langars are organized in the Gurdwaras and at homes.

How to get There:

By plane
Raja Sansi International Airport is about 11 km and a 20-25 min drive from the city center. It's one of the most modern airports in India and quite adequate if not exactly exciting. Most flights are to Delhi, an hour away. Singapore Airlines also flies directly to Singapore, and there are a surprising numbers of flights to Central Asia.

By train
The Shatabdi Express is the fastest and most comfortable way to arrive from Delhi. Slower and cheaper trains are also available. Trains also arrive from Jammu, Dharamsala and other northern areas via Pathankot, and many other locations daily.

By car
Long-distance taxis are possible from most places.

By bus
Amritsar is well-connected by bus to most major cities and the northern areas within a days drive. Pathankot is about 3 hours away, and there is one daily direct bus to Dharamsala (6 hours).

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Srinagar Travel Guide

2007-04-22T23:53:00.000-07:00

Srinagar, a romantic Kashmiri city situated around glistening lakes and snowy tree forested mountain slopes, is a lively, vibrant, and organic canal city, with one on the most pleasant climates in all of India. The summer paradise for many of the great rulers of antiquity, Srinagar lays claim to many wonderful opportunities for exploration and relaxation, such as hiking in the unique destinations scattered around the fabled valley, or reading a lovely novel while resting in an ornate floating palace.

Tourist Attraction in Srinagar

• Chatti Padshahi Gurudwara
The sixth guru of Sikhism travelled through Kashmir, stopping to preach occasionally and a gurudwara has been built at the exact site of each of these halts. The most important one being Chatti Padshahi Gurudwara near the Kathi Darwaza in Rainawari.

• Shalimar Garden
The Garden, 15 Kms from the city centre, was built by Emperor Jahangir for his beloved wife, Nurjahan. The gardens with four terraces are 539 by 182 meters and gets water from Harwan through a canal lined with fountains. The fourth terrace was once reserved for royal ladies.

• Kheer Bhavani
The Goddess Ragnya Devi symbolised as a sacred spring at Tula Mula village, 27 kms from Srinagar. It is believed that the goddess changes the color of the waters. The temple-spring complex is affectionately known as Kheer Bhavani. Devotees offer milk and kheer at this Durga mata temple, to the sacred spring that is said to change colour when warning of disaster.

• Dal Lake
The world famous water body described by Sir Walter Lawerence as the "Lake par-excellence”, half a kilometers from the city, is the jewel in the crown of kashmir eulogised by the poets and abudantly praised by the travellers and tourists. The lake of late has unfortunately, considerably shrunk in size causing concern to environmentalists. The Governments have chalked out an ambitious project to save the lake from extinction.

• Sharika Devi Temple
To the west of the city is the hill of Hari Parbat, on which is the temple of Sharika Devi, believed to be a form of Durga Mata or Shakti. The hill is considered sacred to the Hindus.

• Nishat Garden
Queen Nur Jahan's brother, Asif Khan, laid the Garden in 1633 A.D. It is situated on the banks of the Dal Lake in the backdrop of the Zabarwan hills, 11 Km.from the district headquarter of Srinagar. The Garden commands a magnificent view of the lake.

Area 4,588 Sq. Kms.

Weather:
Baramulla district has severe cold climate in winter and a pleasant weather in summer. Each part of the district experiences snowfall during winter. Road to Gurez remains closed during winter due to snowfall. Snowfall in Gulmarg is known for winter sports. Average annual rainfall in District Baramulla has been recorded as 1270 mm. The district is worth visiting in the winters for enjoying the Snowfall and for winter sports, and also in the summers for enjoying the pleasant climate.

People and Culture:
Baramulla is no different from other parts of Kashmir Valley. The food habits, dress pattern, customs and traditions are the same as followed in other parts of the valley. Kashmiri is the main language of the people in the District, Pahari and Gojari are also spoken in Uri and areas near foothills of Gulmarg and Bandipora. Sheena (Dard) is the local language in Gurez and Tulail areas. The people also speak Urdu.

How to get There:

By air
Flights are operated by Jet Airways, Air Deccan, Spice Jet, Kingfisher Airlines and Indian Airlines from Delhi to Srinagar, or with a stopover at Jammu. The frequency is once or twice a day by each airline. The cost is approx Rs. 2,500 from Jammu and approx Rs. 2,500-5,000 from Delhi one way. The airport is still quite small and all flights originate in Dehli, pick up passengers and then return. It is also still heavily fortified and expect to see many soldiers with guns.

By taxi
Hiring a TATA Sumo SUV from Jammu costs approximately Rs.1, 900-2,700 depending on time of year or even time of day. To reduce costs many people choose not to take an exclusive taxi, and share the Sumo taxi with other travellers. This costs about Rs. 150-400 per person.

By bus
J&K SRTC operates fairly comfortable buses from Jammu costing around Rs 150 and do the journey in around 12 hours.

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Dehradun Travel Guide

2007-04-20T04:49:00.000-07:00

Dehradun, the capital of the north Indian state of Uttaranchal is an important town in North India. It is also a beautiful hill station to which people travel in the summer to escape the heat of the plains. Founded by Guru Dronacharya, according to the epic of Mahabharata, Dehradun is today one of the most developed cities of India. Situated on the threshold of a world full of adventure, spiritualism and tranquility, amidst the Shivalik ranges, the foothills of Himalayas, Dehradun is an entry point for all the trekkers and mountaineers onto their journey into the Garhwal Himalayas. A gateway to the popular hill station of Mussoorie and the pilgrimage centres of Haridwar and Rishikesh, Dehradun boasts of the famous Forest Research Institute and the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy. Doon Valley finds its place between the two most important rivers of India Ganga and Yamuna, and is a picturesque town with moderate climate and a number of places of tourist interest.

During British colonial rule, Dehradun was the summer base of the Viceroy's Bodyguard. The hill resort became an important educational centre and military cantonment. Dehradun is home to the Rashtriya India Military College a school for students who intend to join the Defence Services, it is also home to the Indian Military Academy. The Forest Research Institute and the Wildlife Institute of India, institutes known for their collections of flora and fauna, are located in Dehradun as are many well-known residential schools.

PLACES OF TOURIST INTEREST

Tepkeshwar Temple
The temple is situated on the banks of a rivulet, in the Garhi Cantt. Area 5.5 kms. from the city bus stand, the temple is well connected by road. It is named Tepkeshwar as water droplets, originating form a rock, fall on the Shivling placed in the shrine. People in large numbers participate in the fair organized on the occasion of Shivratri and pay their obeisance to the deity.

Forest Research Institute
Forest Research Institute or the FRI, is one of the best research institutes devoted to the same purpose all around the world. A vast extensive museum in its premises displays a wide range of diverse botanical specimens. Open on all, weekdays from Monday to Friday, it is a great experience to witness the innumerable species of vegetation on the Earth. The Botanical Garden set in the campus is another attraction of the place.

Malsi Deer Park
10 kms. from Dehradun, enroute Mussoorie is situated a beautifully developed tourist spot lying at the foot hills of the Shivalik range. Malsi Deer Park is a mini-zoological park comprising of a children's park enveloped by beautiful natural surroundings.

Kalanga Monument
Located on the right side of the Dehradun- Sahastradhara route, the kalanga monument recalls the story of the bravery of an 180 year old battle between the British and the Gokhas, perched on hill, 1000 feet over the banks of river Rispana, the monument represents the history of the rulers of Garhwal.

Laxman Siddh
12 kms. away from Dehradun, towards Rishikesh is a famous temple known as the Laxman Siddh, Legend has it that a sage underwent penance over here. Due to easy accessibility the temple is visited by a large number of the people especially on Sundays.

Robber's Cave
8 km from Dehradun, just beyond the Anarwala village, the famous Robber's Cave is a fabulous picnic spot, which is sure to delight the visitors. The best way to reach the place is to take a bus to the village and then stroll to the pace at a leisurely pace giving yourself time to take in the picturesque surroundings. It is known for a strange phenomenon as a stream of water suddenly disappears from sight at a point and then reappears again a few metres ahead as a squally stream.

How to Reach

By Air:
The nearest Jolly Grant Airport is 25 km from Dehradun. It is connected to Delhi with Indian Airlines having five flights a week from Delhi to this airport.

By Train:
Dehradun is well linked to all the major cities of the state by trains. There are direct daily trains that come here from Delhi, Calcutta, Mumbai, Varanasi, Lucknow and other places. The most notable ones are Shatabdi Express, Mussoorie Express and the Doon Express.

By Road:
Well connected by good and smooth roads and there are daily bus services that connect Dehradun to Mussoorie and Delhi.

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Excursions of Ooty

2007-04-18T02:37:00.000-07:00

An ideal adventurous place, located in Nilgiri Hills, where the offshoot of the Western Ghats meets the Eastern Ghats. Along side the adventures of the sanctuary, you will also find a varied mixture of flat land, open grassland, swamp, valley and nullas at this place. Though Ooty in itself can keep you occupied for many days, but if you can never have enough of greenery and scenic beauty, than you can visit numerous place around Ooty, such as Connors and Kotagiri, which are also quite popular with tourists.

Ooty offers a lot of exotic excursion destinations. Some of the important excursion destination are The Mukkurthi Peak and National Park, located around 40-km from Ooty. The Kollaribetta and Nilgiris Peak are other major peaks around. A number of little perennial streams flow between these peaks, which fall into Bhavani Puzha. Another major excursion destination here is the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, located near the Nilgiri Hills. This sanctuary has varied landscape with open grassland, swamp and valley.

The Mukkurthi Peak and National Park
Mukkurthi is a beautiful peak, located at a distance of 40-km from Ooty. Ideally located on the Southern corner of the Nilgiri Plateau, this peal attracts tourists from distinct corners. The Kollaribetta and Nilgiris Peak are the other major peaks, close to this peak. A large number of perennial streams flowing between these peaks make a complete picturesque reality. Furthermore, Bhavani Puzha. Silent Valley, along the Western Ghats, is a feast to the visitor's eye.

Madumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
The Madumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is located at a distance of 67kms from Ooty. If you are in town for a couple of days, then a visit to the Wildlife sanctuary would be a great way to spend a day. The Wildlife Sanctuary boasts of very rich flora and fauna, and is home to many endangered species. Though tigers and Leopards are only seen by the fortunate few, elephants, giant squirrels, sambhar, chital, barking deer and flying squirrels are a common sight.

Kotagiri
East of Ooty, is a little village of kotagiri, which is about 28km from the popular hill station. Kotagiri is the oldest one of the three hill stations in the Nilgiris. It is not as popular as the other two, Ooty and Coonoor, yet it is said that it probably has the most pleasant weather among the three of them. It is a beautiful hill resort that has wonderful tea estates and is definitely worth a visit.

Kalhatty Waterfalls
The beautiful Kolhatty waterfalls are about 100 feet in height and are located on the kalhatty slopes. The falls are about 13kms from the city, so anyone on a tour of Ooty can easily check out the falls and the beautiful area surrounding it. Besides, obviously looking at the waterfalls, you can explore the kalhatty-Masinagudi slopes, that are home to many wild species, including panthers, sambhar, bison and wild buffaloes.

Trekking
Popularly known as the trekker's paradise, the Nilgiri Hills are embraced by natural environs including the hills, for lovers of nature. In this place, you will find trekking destinations all around you, which fills you with a sense of thrill, excitement and adventure. The Nilgiri Hills offers several trek routes, which vary in distance, altitudes and terrain. Furthermore, a base camp is built at Parsons Valley, which serves as a starting point for the trekkers.

Dolphin's Nose
If the name is not amusing enough for you, you can come down to this very Dolphin's nose and have a good time, enjoying games and an outdoor picnic. The Dolphin's nose is a great vantage point that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding areas. If it is clear day, you can even see the Catherine falls from here. Mukurthi about 36 km from Ooty is Mukurthi. Here you can take a look at the imposing Mukurthi peak. According to the Todas, the indigenous people of this locale, the souls of the dead move on to the next world from this very sacred place.

Pykara
A beautiful and well protected sholas, Toda settlements, undisturbed grassy meadows and also a good wildlife habitat, Pykara is widely becoming one of the major tourist attractions. Located at a distance of 21-km from Ooty, this place is embraced with Pykara Dam, Pykara Falls and the reservoir. The major attraction of this place is the boathouse, with restaurant and a rest house to provide you with ultimate comfort.

Avalanche
Avalanche lies 28 km from Ooty. Unlike it's name, which conjures up images of destruction and devastation, the place is a nature lover's paradise. It is a lake, which is ideal for fishing, though one has to obtain permission before hand. It is also the perfect place to enjoy bird watching and a quiet afternoon.

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Tourist Attraction in Ooty

2007-04-16T21:55:00.000-07:00

Ooty also known as Udagamandalam is the "Queen of hill stations" and the capital of Nilgiris district. It is one of the most popular tourist resorts in India. Nilgiris means "Blue Mountains".
If you want to find a cove simple and charming enough for a romantic getaway, there is hardly any place to match the beauty of Ooty. This is one of the most beautiful places that you will ever have the fortune of visiting.

Rose Garden:
Located less than a km from Charring Cross, the rose garden is laid on 10 acres of land. The garden has a collection of more than 1000 varieties of roses. A spectra of regionally exclusive and ornamental plants adorn this garden which is the venue for the Flower Show held in May every year. There is a fossil tree trunk 20 million years old in the midst of the garden.

Botanical Gardens
If you are on a sightseeing tour to Ooty, you might want to visit the Government Botanical gardens, which were laid out in 1847.The picturesque gardens that are maintained by the Horticulture department of the state, cover an area of about 22 hectares. The Gardens have well over 650 species of plants and trees, including a fossil of a tree, which is believed to be more than 20 million years old. The garden is very popular with nature lovers and those who long to walk among greenery and see rare ferns and shrubs up close. If you are in Ooty in the month of May, then you can also be a part of the summer festival, which is held here annually. The festival holds flower shows and various cultural programs showcasing the talent of the locals and the renowned artists.

Ooty Lake
If you love the outdoors, Ooty lake is a must see for you. It was built in 1825 and is about 2.5 km long. Visitors to this lake can go for boating on the lake or enjoy their favorite outdoor activity of fishing. If the latter really appeals to you then remember to get fishing permission before you head to buy baits!

Kotagiri
It is 31 kms. from Udhagamandalam. The climate is very salubrious which is 6503 feet above sea level. Kotagiri is shielded by the Doddabetta ranges which receive much of its rain from North West monsoon. One can enjoy a pleasure ride on road flanked by green tea beds on either side.

Doddabetta
Doddabetta is widely famous and the highest peak (2623 meters) in the Nilgiris. Ideally located at a distance of 10-kms from Ooty, this beautiful place is situated between the junction of the Western and Eastern Ghats. You can get envision the beautiful view of Nilgiri hill ranges from this peak, which is surrounded by dense Sholas.

Government Museum - Ooty
The Government Museum at Ooty The government museum, Mysore Road, Ooty has items of tribal objects, district's ecological details and representative sculptural arts and crafts of Tamil Nadu. It was set up in 1989, with a view to provide education benefits to the residing and visiting population of Nilgiris district. Tourist Information Admission: Free Timings: 10.00 am to 1.00 pm and 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm Closed On: Fridays, Second Saturdays and National Holidays Ooty The nearest airport is at Coimbatore.

Lamb's Rock
Lamb's Rock is another vantage point that is ideal for taking pictures and is a wonderful picnic spot. It is merely 9kms. From Coonoor and is known for the splendid views it offers of the plains of Coimbatore and the tea states in the surrounding areas.

Kodanadu's View Point
Kodanadu is about 16kms from Kotagiri, and is situated on the eastern edge of the Nilgiri range. It is a great vantage point that offers a breathtaking view of the Moyar river and the tea estates. There is a watchtower here that offers a view of the Rangasamy peak.

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Queen of Hill Stations (Ooty)

2007-04-16T00:13:00.000-07:00

Ooty also known as Udagamandalam is the "Queen of hill stations" and the capital of Nilgiris district. It is one of the most popular tourist resorts in India. Nilgiris means "Blue Mountains".

If you want to find a cove simple and charming enough for a romantic getaway, there is hardly any place to match the beauty of Ooty. This is one of the most beautiful places that you will ever have the fortune of visiting. Ooty is easily accessible. The nearest airport is the Coimbatore airport which is about 100 km from here. The nearest railway station is Mettupalayam that is about 46 km away from Ooty. It is also well connected by roads. The beauty of Ooty however lies in the beautiful sights and sounds of this hill station that is so remarkably different from any other hill stations.

About Ooty:
Ooty is famous for its healthy climate and scenic beauty. For residents of the south it is a delightful place to escape to from the oppressive summer heat. The best thing about Ooty is that it combines the peace and serenity of a hill station with the comforts of urban life. Ooty's colonial legacy extends to very nook and corner, and nowhere is it more apparent than in the Ooty club that is beyond compare.

This region is entirely a group of mountains which are Natural sky scrappers. The Mountains are so high, such that we can see the clouds crossing the way when we Travel. Another important experience which every Traveler gets when they come here is the Dangerous, but thrilling Hair-pin Bends. Our mind would record an excellent scenic Beauty which is immortal when we Travel through this way.

Not only the sceneries But also the minute frame work of Tamilnadu Roadways and valuable support provided by Tourism development corporation of Tamilnadu is seen. Man’s desires are endless, But the search of satisfaction and peace is what he seeks in this modern world. This place is definitely such a place where we can forget ourselves by loitering in lawns, fishing, playing Golf & tennis etc. Nature made udagamandalam is definitely a different place in this man made world of inventions.

History of Ooty:
It is believed that the name Nila, has been in use for over 800 years since, the King of the Hoysalas Vishnu Vardhana, who ruled from 1104 to 1141 AD seized the Nilgiris Plateau. His general Ponisia recorded this fact in 1117 AD with mention of Todas. The name Nilgiri was due to the blue haze, which envelops the range with most distant hills of considerable size.

This Nilgiri territory came into possession of the East India Company as part of the ceded lands, held by Tipu Sultan, by the treaty of Srirangapatnam in 1799. Rev. Jacome Forico, a priest was the first European who visited Nilgiris in 1603 and released his notes about the place and people of Nilgiris. In 1812 surveyor William Keys and Macmohan visited the top of the plateau.

In 1818, Wishand Kindersley, Assistant and Second Assistant to Collector of Coimbatore visited this spot and submitted their experience report to the Collector of Coimbatore Mr. John Sullivan. Settlement in Udhagamandalam began in 1822 with the construction of the Stone House by John Sullivan, the then Collector of Coimbatore. The bungalow, which is locally called "Kal Bangla", is one of the landmarks of Udhagamandalam and is now the Chamber of the Principal of the Government Arts College.

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Tourist Attraction in Mumbai

2007-04-12T02:40:00.000-07:00

Mumbai has lived upto the reputation for which it was established. It is a city built by the residents of the city. Mumbai is more than a cosmopolitan made of concrete buildings. In the 18th century Mumbai grew rapidly and it also became one of the leading centers for the activists in the freedom struggle. Britishers played their role by shifting the presidency from Surat to Bombay, the former name of Mumbai. Also, the first railway line on which train moved was laid between Bombay and Thane.

Places to See in Mumbai

Gateway of India
What could be more appropriate a beginning than the 'entrance' to the port of Mumbai? The ceremonial arch was built in 1927 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary for the Delhi Durbar in 1911. Constructed in honey-colored basalt, the gateway was designed by George Wittet, inspired by 16th century Gujarat Style. The changing light of the rising and setting sun gives varied hues of gold, russet and pink to the imposing arch. Historically, the Gateway holds greater significance as the last of the British troops left Independent India by sea, marched through its portals.

University Buildings
Founded by Sir Cowasjee Jehangir Ready money, after whom is named the earlier of the two structures, was designed by Sir Gilbert Scott. Flanked by the High Court and the Old Secretariat, the buildings were completed in 1874. Resplendent in a florid and highly decorative French Gothic style, the main building with its turrets and gabled roof has a large circular window, with its outer border originally made up of twelve stained glass skylights, depicting the signs of the zodiac.

Mumbai High Court
This blue-basalt building in early English Gothic style was designed by Col. J. A. Fuller. It has central tower standing almost 180 ft. Two octagonal towers with their spiralets holding at their pinnacles two carved figures of Justice and Mercy are situated to the west of the central tower.

Sir J. J. School Of Art
Built during the same period as the University, its importance is heightened by the fact that Rudyard Kipling was born and spent his early childhood here. His father, John Lockwood Kipling, was the Principal of the art school and under his tutelage, many local artisans received training.

Shivaji Terminus
One of the finest examples of high Victorian Gothic architecture, it is the headquarters of the Central Railways and is one of the finest railway stations in the world.

Prince of Wales Museum
King George V, who as Prince of Wales, laid the foundation stone of this museum in 1905. Situated near the gateway of India, it was designed in the Indo-Saracenic style to commemorate the King's first visit to India. During the First World War, it was used as a hospital. It was opened as a museum in 1923 and has three main sections: Art, Archaeology and Natural History. One of the best museums in the country, it is a treasure house of art, sculpture, China, rare coins and old firearms. It also has a priceless collection of miniature paintings.

The glistering white marble dome crowning this building can be sighted from a distance as it lies nestled amidst a well-laid out garden.

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Kerala Travel Guide

2007-04-11T03:31:00.000-07:00

With the Arabian Sea in the west, the Western Ghats towering 500-2700 m in the east and networked by forty four rivers, Kerala enjoys unique geographical features that have made it one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Asia. An equable climate, a long shoreline with serene beaches, tranquil streches of emerald backwaters, lush hill stations and exotic wildlife, Waterfalls, Sprawling plantations and paddy fields, Ayurvedic health holiday, Enchanting art forms, Magical festivals, Historic and cultural monuments and An exotic cuisine. All of which offer you a unique experience. And what's more, every one of these charming destinations is only a two hour drive from the other.

Places of Interest in Kerala

• Alappuzha Travel Guide
With the Arabian Sea on the west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons and fresh water rivers crisscrossing it, Alappuzha is a district of immense natural beauty.

• Ernakulam Travel Guide
Ernakulam is located on the coast of the Arabian sea with Kottayam and Alappuzha districts on the south, Idukki on the east and Thrissur on the north. • Idukki Travel GuideA landlocked district, Idukki is one of the most nature rich areas of Kerala. High ranges and wooded valleys are girded by three main rivers - Periyar, Thalayar and Thodupuzhayar - and their tributaries.

• Kannur Travel Guide
The district itself which shares much of this natural splendour has been a key contributor to the cultural, religious, political and industrial heritage of the State. In addition, Kannur enjoys the credit of having been the cradle of many a colourful folk art and folk music of Kerala.

• Kasaragod Travel Guide
The northernmost district of Kerala, Kasaragod is world renowned for its coir and handloom industries. Fishing is a prime source of livelihood.

• Kollam Travel Guide
The eight hour boat trip between Kollam and Alappuzha is the longest and most enchanting experience on the backwaters of Kerala. The district also has some interesting historic remnants and a number of temples built in the traditional ornate architectural style.

Fairs & Festivals of Kerala
The colorful mosaic of Kerala festivals and fairs is as diverse as the land, is an expression of the spirit of celebration that is an essential part of the State. Observed with enthusiasm and gaiety, festivals are like gems, ornamenting the crown of Kerala tradition and culture. Round the year the fests keep Kerala life vibrant and interludes in the mundane affairs of life.

Aaranmula Boat Race
The Aaranmula Boat Race is staged each year in the scenic village of Aaranmula in August/ September. This river carnival is part of the Aaranmula Temple festival. Masses throng the shores of the River Pamba to watch an imposing cluster of snake boats called 'Palliyodams'.

Cochin Carnival Cochin
Carnival is a merry making feast observed during the last week of every year in Fort Kochi in Kerala. The carnival dates back to the Portuguese New Year revelry held here during the colonial days.

Muharram
Muharram is the opening month of the Hijra year. The 10th day of this month (May) is honoured by the Muslims of Kerala. As per belief, it was on this day that the Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Mohammed, and his men were slain at Karbala.

Onam
Onam, the harvest festival is the most popular festival of Kerala. A festival that celebrates a happy blend of myth and reality, Onam is part of the cultural repertoire of every Malayalee.

Malabar Mahotsavam
Malabar Mahotsavam is a cultural extravaganza that showcases the centuries old rich cultural heritage of Kerala. The event is at Mananchira maidan (ground) in the heart of Kozhikode town from 13th to 16th January every year.

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Tourist Attraction in Uttaranchal

2007-04-10T03:05:00.000-07:00

Uttaranchal is the 27th state of the Republic of India. It was carved out of the state of Uttar Pradesh in November 2000. It is one of the most beautiful state in the Indian union. Apart from the beautiful views of Himalays, it is also home of the point of origin of Ganga and Yamuna. Gangotri, Yamunotri, Badrinath and Kedarnath are some of the places regarded sacred by Hindus. The state is also dotted with many hill stations like Mussorie, Nanital, Kausani etc.

Places to see in Uttaranchal:

Badrinath Tourism
The temple of shri badrinathji on the bank of the alaknanda river, dates back to the alaknanda river, dates back to the vedic times, situated at an altitude of 3,133 mts., the present temple is believed to have been built by adi guru shankaracharya - an 8th century’s philosopher -saint, who also established a math here also known as vishal badri, badrinath is one of the panch badris.

Chamoli Tourism
Chamoli, the abode of Gods, reputed for its shrines and temples, birth place of 'Chipko Movement ' with its strategic significance is one of the hill district of Uttaranchal, India. Chamoli proved itself " the most spectacular in its natural assets; be it maintain scenery, valley aspects, water-edges, floristic varieties, dramatic landform or the climatic cardinalities. In the arms of the heavenly Himalayas lies the enchanting land of Chamoli, which seems to be a benediction of earth. A blessed spot the place seems to have been particularly dear to Lord Shiva. There are hundreds of shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, the most important of all being the shrine of Badrinath.

Yamunotri Tourism
Yamunotri the revered shrine of Yamunotri, source of the shadow of the 6,315 mts. high Bandarpunchh Mountain. It constitutes one of the four most important pilgrimages, collectively called 'Char Dham' of the Garhwal Himalayas. Legend has it that a sage, Asit Muni, used to reside at this secluded spot in ancient times. The chief attraction at Yamunotri is the temple devoted to goddess Yamuna and the holy thermal springs at Jankichatti.

Haridwar Tourism
Haridwar has very rich ancient religious and cultural heritage. In the ancient scriptures of India, this place is well known by the name of Mayapur. This city is also well known for many other things apart from the holy river Ganges. Haridwar has privilege of having IIT at Roorkee, formerly known as University of Roorkee, founded in 1847 as a first technical institute of India.
Rishikesh TourismRishikesh, also known as the 'place of sages' is Haridwar, at the confluence of the Chandrabhaga and Ganga. It is believed that God by the name of 'Hrishikesh' had appeared as an answer to the hard penances by Rabhiya Rishi and henceforth the place derived its name.

Mussoorie Tourism
Mussoorie offers a wonderful view of the Himalayan snow ranges to the north-east and the Doon Valley., Roorkee, Saharanpur and Haridwar to the South, creating an almost serene atmosphere for the tourists. Mussoorie was discovered by Captain Young, an adventurous military officer in 1827. He was lured by the extraordinarily beautiful ridge and laid the foundation of it. Mussoorie is also a Gateway to the “Gangotri” and the “Yamunotri” shrines.

Mukteshwar Tourism
Mukteshwar this beautiful place is 2286 mts in altitude and 51 Kms. from Nainital. Surrounded by fruit orchards and thick coniferous forest it was developed by the Britishers as research and education institute (IVRI) in 1893. It is the celebrated scenic spot overlooking long ranges of Himalaya. An old temple of Lord Shiva exists on the top of a rock.

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Uttaranchal Travel Guide

2007-04-09T00:18:00.000-07:00

Uttaranchal blessed with magnificent glaciers, majestic snow-clad mountains, gigantic and ecstatic peaks, valley of flowers, skiing slopes and dense forests, this Abode of Gods includes many shrines and places of pilgrimage. Char-dhams, the four most sacred and revered Hindu temples: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri are nestled in the Mighty Mountains.

There are hundred of shrines in the town, as also numerous ghats and several sacred tanks, of which one called Brahama kund and another named Govinda kund are the most highly venerated. The most famous as well as the finest temple in Vrindavan is that of Govinda Deva, dating from 1590.There are hundred of shrines in the town, as also numerous ghats and several sacred tanks, of which one called Brahama kund and another named Govinda kund are the most highly venerated.

Hill Stations in Uttaranchal:

Dehradun Travel:
Dehradun in one of the oldest cities of India. Also known as the Abode of Drona, Dehradun has always been an important centre of the Garhwal rulers which was captured by the British. The headuarters of many National Institute like ONGC, Servey of India, and I.I.P. etc. are located in the city. Dehradun has a string of premier educational institutes like the forest Research Institute, Rashtriya Indian Military College and the Indian Milirary Academy. It is favored tourist destination as it attracts tourists, piligrims and enthusiasts From various walks of life to its serene environs. Add to this the abundance of special Basmati rice, tea and leechi gardens which contribute in turning the city into a paradise.

Mussoorie Travel:
Mussoorie offers a wonderful view of the Himalayan snow ranges to the north-east and the Doon Valley., Roorkee, Saharanpur and Haridwar to the South, creating an almost serene atmosphere for the tourists. Mussoorie was discovered by Captain Young, an adventurous military officer in 1827. He was lured by the extraordinarily beautiful ridge and laid the foundation of it. Mussoorie is also a Gateway to the “Gangotri” and the “Yamunotri” shrines.

Nainital Travel:
Nainital is a glittering jewel in the Himalyan necklace, blessed with scenic natural splendor and varied natural resources. Dotted with lakes, Nainital has earned the epithet of 'Lake District' of India. The most prominent of the lakes is Naini lake ringed by hills. Nainital has a varied topography. Some of the important places in the district are Nainital, Haldwani, Kaladhungi, Ramnagar, Bhowali, Ramgarh, Mukteshwar, Bhimtal, Sattal and Naukuchiatal. Nainital’s unending expense of scenic beauty is nothing short of a romance with awe-inspiring and pristine Mother Nature.

Pilgrimage in Uttaranchal

Baijnath:
It is an important pilgrimage and historic centre. A group of ancient temples dating back to the 12th and 13th century line the banks. Line the banks of the Gomti river.

Ritha Sahib:
An important religious centre of the Sikhs.

Punyagiri:
One of the most important religious centres around Pithoragarh, the Punyagiri temple, dedicated to Maa Punyagiri is atop a rocky pinnacle.

Jageshwar:
Home to a cluster of 164 temples which bear eloquent testimony to the arcitectural excellence achieved during the period of the Chand Rajas, jageshwar is at a distance of 34 kms from Almora.

Bageshwar:
Often equated with Varanasi is divinity, situated at the confluence of the Gomti and Saryu rivers where the valley spreads into a wide expanse, it is a picturesque 36 km drive down from Kausani.

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Goa Travel Guide

2007-04-06T00:25:00.000-07:00

Variously known as "Rome of the East", "Tourist Paradise" and "Pearl of the Orient", the state of Goa is located on the western coast of India in the coastal belt known as Konkan. The magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendours of its temples, churches and old houses have made Goa a firm favourite with travellers around the world. But then, Goa is much more than just beaches and sea. It has a soul which goes deep into unique history, rich culture and some of the prettiest natural scenery that India has to offer.

Legends from Hindu mythology credit Lord Parshuram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu with the creation of Goa. Over the centuries various dynasties have ruled Goa. Rashtrakutas, Kadambas, Silaharas, Chalukyas, Bahamani Muslims and most famously the Portuguese have been rulers of Goa. Having been the meeting point of races, religions and cultures of East and West over the centuries, Goa has a multi-hued and distinctive lifestyle quite different from the rest of India. Hindu and Catholic communities make up almost the entire population with minority representation of Muslims and other religions.

Places to see in Goa:

Panaji:
The capital of Goa and headquarters of North Goa District, a small a charming city on the left bank of silvery Mandovi River, with beautiful red-roofed houses, built in Latin style, also boasts of many modern houses, well laid garden, statues and avenue's lined with Gulmohar, Acassia and other trees. Enchantit panorama unfolds from atop Altinho (Hill Top).

Mapusa:
It is 13 Kms. from Panaji. The capital of Bardez Taluka, on the national highway, is the cross roads of the network of highways covering whole of Northern Goa. Weekly fair on Friday, is held at the modem streamlined market, attended by large crowds.

Pilar:
It is 11 kms. from Panaji. It has important religious and educational centre of Christian Missionaries. The Church, Seminary and School atop hillock command a magnificent panorama of the country side around and a fine view of Mormugao Harbour & Zuari river.

Ponda:
Ponda can be described as the Hindu heart of Goa. It is famous for the five important temples that are situated around the town, and also has the largest mosque in Goa. Most of these temples look relatively new as they have been restored after being destroyed by the Portuguese. That explains why there are no temples around the coast, which was the prime territory of the Portuguese. Ponda is also an important transport link.

Margao:
It is 33 Kms. from Panaji. The Capital of South Goa District in the hinterland of southern Goa in Salcete Taluka is a thriving commercial metropolis linked by rail to the rest of India & Mormugao Harbour and by national highways, with Maharashtra and Karnataka. It has imposing old mansions and modern buildings.

Vasco-da-Gama:
It is 30 kms. from Panaji. A modem, well laid out city close to Mormugs Harbour, has beautiful and extensive avenues. The air terminus of Goa at Dabolim lies on the outskirts of the city. It is also the railway terminus for passenger service in the South Central Railway.

Beaches of Goa
Goa is one of India's special tourist places that can boast of fantastic weather, fabulous beaches, wonderful people, mouth-watering cuisine, forts. There are beaches far from human habitation with very basic or sometimes no facility for accommodation. Then there are some with ultra modern comforts like internet cafes, massage centers, gyms, swimming pools, night clubs, etc. With such an enormous choice, one might feel confused about which one to take.

Anjuna Beach:
Anjuna, 18 kms from Panaji is a popular beach area adjacent to Chapora fort- it was the haunt of the flower generation in the sixties - and is still popular with the younger generation.

Dona Paula Beach:
7 kms from Panaji. An idyllic picturesque spot. Command a fine view of the Zuari river and Mormugao Harbour. Water scootering facilities are available here.

Palolem Beach:
It’s a beach of white sand facing a blue bay between two headlands. The little wooded islands on the northern headland look interesting but as we’ve never ventured onto any of them we don’t know what landing on them would be like.

Vagator Beach:
This beautiful beach is located about 22 Kms from Panaji and is situated in Bardez taluka. This is part of a 30 km stretch of beach coastline along the west coast of Goa by the arabian sea that begins at Fort Aguada continues as Sinquerim beach.

Colva Beach:
This is the most important beach in the south circuit equipped with all modern amenities like air-conditioned resort complexes, tourist cottages, discos, seashell artefact stalls, refreshment stalls, eateries, guest houses, expanding the village enormously.

For more details on Goa Travel visit www.times2travel.com

Tourist Attraction in Bangalore

2007-04-02T02:31:00.000-07:00

Bangalore, the capital city of Karnataka, is a veritable melting pot of various races and cultures. This Garden City has well - laid out parks, gardens, long avenues of blossoming trees and salubrious climate. Emerging as the hi-tech capital of India, it still retains a charm that is totally Indian. Founded in 1537 by a local Chieftain Kempe Gowda, Bangalore has changed dramatically over the years.

Vidhana Soudha:
A magnificent building of the Neo-Dravidian style, houses the State Legislature. It was conceived and executed by Kengal Hanumanthaiah, the former Chief Minister of Karnataka in 1956.

Attara Kacheri (High Court):
"Eighteen offices" is the literal meaning of this very elegant two storied building facing Vidhana far from there is the sprawling Cubbon Park, Vishveshwarajap Museum of Science and Technology and Venkatappa Art Gallery.

Lalbagh Gardens:
This expanse of greenery is one of India's most beautiful botanical gardens. It was laid out by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan in the 18th century, Within the Gardens there is a beautiful lake with a water spread area of 1.5 Sq.Kms dotted with picturesque tiny islands. It is a good picnic spot.

Cubbon Park:
This beautiful park, which spreads over 300 acres in the heart of the city, serves as the lung space of the ever growing Bangalore city. Designed by Lt. General Sir Mark Cubbon, in 1864, is dotted with beautiful statues, flowering trees, fountains and a library its midst.

The Government Museum:
One of the oldest museums in the country, established in 1886, has a unique collection of sculptures, inscriptions, paintings, icons and also some relics from Mohenjodaro.

Visweswaraiah Industrial & Technological Museum:
This museum is tribute to Sir. M. Vishweswaraiah the Architect of modern Karnataka, a must see for students and Science buffs, Which presents the amazing wealth of modern science.

Venkatappa Art Gallery:
The Art Gallery has a permanent display of paintings and sculpture by the renowned artist K.Venkatappa.

Karnataka Folk Museum:
The Karnataka janapada trust manages this museum where many rare masks, artifacts and costumes are displayed. It also boasts of an impressive collection of folk music and videos of folk dances. It is located at Kumara Park West, Sheshadripuram.

Bull Temple (Dodda Basavanna Temple):
The gigantic image of the celestial bull, Nandi, which stands at 4.57 meters. in height, is a classic example of Dravidian architecture. A yearly festival to celebrate the harvesting of peanuts, (Kallekai parse) is held here during the month of Nov-Dec. which attracts large crowds from all over the state.

Dodda Ganapathi Temple:
A huge monolithic statue of Gapnapati, which attracts thousands of devotees every day. One of the oldest temples of Bangalore.

Bugle Rock:
This rock stands as a mute witness to the bygone era of the founder of Bangalore, when it served as the watchtower and incase of any attack, a bugle call from here alerted the inhabitants of the town.

Sri Gavi Gangadareshwara Temple:
A unique phenomenon of this cave temple is the sunlight passes through the horns of the bull to light up the Gavi Ganagadareshwara idol on the day of Makara Sankranthi i.e. January 14th or 15th every year.

Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium:
The sky threatre with a dome of fifteen meters in diameter attracts all the amateur astronomers and the commoners to this Planetarium, founded in 1989 to commemorate the birth centenary of Jawaharlal Nehru, the First Prime Minister of India.

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Tourists Attraction in Agra

2007-03-30T23:46:00.000-07:00

Agra is famous as being home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World-the Taj Mahal. The architectural splendor of the mausoleums, the fort and the palaces is a vivid remainder of the mausoleums, the fort and the palaces is a vivid reminder of the capital in the 16th and early 17th centuries.

Taj Mahal
The construction of this marble masterpiece is credited to the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan who erected this mausoleum in memory of his beloved wife, Arjumand Bano Begum, popularly known as Mumtaz Mahal, who died in AH 1040 (AD 1630). Her last wish to her husband was "to build a tomb in her memory such as the world had never seen before".

The designer of Taj Mahal was Ustad Ahmad Lahauri. The material was brought in from all over India and central Asia and it took a fleet of 1000 elephants to transport it to the site. The central dome is 187 feet high at the centre. Red sandstone was brought from Fatehpur Sikri, Jasper from Punjab, Jade and Crystal from China, Turquoise from Tibet, Lapis Lazuli and Sapphire from Sri Lanka, Coal and Cornelian from Arabia and diamonds from Panna.

Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri is an epic in red sandstone. A city of yesteryear, today lost in the mists of time. Fatehpur Sikri was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar during 1564 A.D.. Mughal Emperor Akbar had no heir. He visited holy men to enlist their prayers for his son.

Sikandra Fort
The mausoleums of emperor Akbar represent his philosophy and secular outlook, combining the best of Hindu and Muslim architectures in a superlative region. Completed in 1613 A.D. by his son Jahangir, it is one of the well preserved monuments. This is the last resting place of the Mughal Emperor Akbar.

Agra Fort
The great Mughal Emperor Akbar commissioned the construction of the Agra Fort in 1565 A.D., although additions were made till the time of his grandson Shah Jahan. Agra Fort is located on the banks of the Yamuna near the railway station. Agra is well connected by air with Khajuraho, Varanasi, and Delhi. It has good rail and bus connections with major Indian cities. From the city, there are taxis, tempos, auto-rickshaws, and cycle rickshaws to carry one to the fort. Prepaid taxis and autos from the railway station are also available. Bicycles can also be hired on hourly basis.

Itmad-Ud-Daulah
Itmad-ud-Daulah is the tomb of Mirza Ghyas Beg, a persian who had obtained service in Akbar Court. The Marvel tomb was made by Emperor Jahangir's Queen, Noorjahan, for his father Mirza Ghyas Beg during 1622-1628 A.D.The Craftmanship at Itmad-ud-Daulah foreshadows that of the Taj Mahal. It was here that. "Pietra Dura"-the inlay work on marble-so characteristic of the Taj-was first used.

Radha Swami Samadhi
This is the head quarter of Radhaswami religion; here the holy ashes of the founder of the faith have been preserved. On the sprawing lawns here, is a beautiful marvel temple with beautiful carving of fruits, flowers, leavesand plants which have been reduced into stone true to nature, and are distinctive speciments of the plastic arts. This is under construction for almost 100 years.

Taj Mahotsav
Come February, and it's springtime. The time of the year when nature dawns all its colorful splendor and Agra bursts into colorful celebrations. For 10 days there is sheer celebration of U.P.'s rich heritage of arts, crafts, culture, cuisine, dance and music. Yes, it is Taj Mahotsav time again. There are festivities all around and Agra truly puts on the colors of joy and gets transformed into one non-stop carnival. Organised by U.P. Tourism and held as an annual event at Shilpgram, literally next door to the Taj Mahal, the Taj Mahotsav is indeed a fitting tribute to the legendary skills of master craftsman and other exponents of art, music and cuisine.

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Udaipur Travel Guide

2007-03-29T04:24:00.000-07:00

Udaipur is one of the most romantic cities in Rajasthan, Udaipur is also known as the city of lakes. The marble palaces, beautifully laid out gardens and the lakes make Udaipur seem almost like a mirage. The City of Dawn, surrounded by the ancient Aravali Mountains and set on the edge of three lakes, is a brilliant kaleidoscope of narrow lanes flanked by bright stalls, gardens, lakes, palaces and temples.

The city of Dawn, Udaipur is a lovely land around the azure water lake, hemmed in by the lush hills of the Aravallis. A vision in white drenched in romance and beauty, Udaipur is a fascinating blend of sights, sound and experiences and inspiration for the imagination of poets, painters and writers.

Fairs and Festivals of Udaipur

Mewar Festival
The onset of spring brings the Mewar festival. During the festival, the tradition and culture of Rajasthan dominates every other thing in one's mind. The Mewar Festival is celebrated to welcome the advent of spring. It coincides with the festival of Gangaur in Udaipur and has a unique charm about it. The festival of Gangaur is very significant for women of Rajasthan. It is a time for them to dress up in their best clothes and participate in the festival.

Gangaur Festival
Gangaur festival which comes in March - April is popular among women who pray to the goddess Parvati. A procession of caparisoned horses and elephants accompanying the image of Lord Shiva is the major attraction. During these festival women carry the idols of goddess Parvati also called Gauri in form of a procession to Gangaur Ghat which is one side of Pichola Lake.

Teej
Teej is also an important festival celebrated in all parts of Rajasthan .It comes in the month of July - August. It is the festival celebrating the advent of monsoon. Held during the monsoons, July-August Teej is also dedicated to Lord Shiva and Parvati and this time it is married women who pray for a happy and long married life. It is the festival of swings which are decorated with flowers and hung from trees. Young girls and women dressed in green clothes sing songs in celebration of the advent of the monsoon. Teej is celebrated mainly by the women folk of Rajasthan. Married women who idolize Parvati for her devotion to her husband Shiva celebrate Teej.

Places to See in Udaipur

City Palace
A majestic architectural marvel towering over the lake on a hill surrounded by crenallated walls, it is a conglomeration of courtards, pavilions, terraces corridors rooms and hanging gardens. The main entrance is through the triple arched gate. The Tripolia with eight marble porticos. The maharanas were weighed under the gate in gold, the equivalent amount of which was distributed among the populace. The suraj Gokhada, the balcony of the sun, is where the suryavansi maharanas of mewar presented themselves to the people in time of trouble to restore their confidence. The “Mor Chow” known for its exquisite peacock mosaics in glass and the Chini Chitrashala noted for its blue and white ceramics is another attraction in the palace.

Jagdish Temple
Built in 1651A.D. by Maharana Jagat Singh, this Indoarmy temple is the largest and the most beautiful temple if Udaipur with noteworthy scupted images.

Bharatiya Lok Kala Museum
The interesting collection exhibited by this Indian folk arts museum includes folk dresses ornaments puppets masks dolls folk musical instruments folk deities and paintings.

Fateh Sagar
A beautiful lake, overlooked by a number of jills on the three sides and the Pratap memorial on the north was built by Maharana fateh singh. In the middle of the lake is Nehru Park a lovely garden island with a boar shaped café accessile by an enjoyable boat ride.

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Khajuraho Travel Guide

2007-03-28T03:41:00.000-07:00

The temples of Khajuraho are India's unique gift to the world, representing, as they do, a paean to life, to love, to joy; perfect in execution and sublime in expression. Life, in every form and mood, has been captured in stone, testifying not only to the craftsman's artistry but also to the extraordinary breadth of vision of the Chandela Rajputs under whose rule the temples were conceived and constructed.

The world renowned temple town of Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh designated by UNESCO as a world heritage site for its archaeological and historical monuments.

History:
The Creators of Khajuraho claimed descent from the moon and the legend behind the founding of this great dynasty and the temples is a fascinating one. Hemwati, the lovely young daughter of a Brahmin priest, was seduced by the moon-god while bathing in a forest pool. The child born of this union was Chandravarman, founder of the Chandela dynasty. Brought up in the forests by his mother who sought refuge from a censorious society, Chandravarman, when established as a ruler, had a dream-visitation from his mother. It is said that she implored him to build temples that would reveal human passions, and in doing so, bring about a realization of the emptiness of human desire. It is also possible that the Chandelas were followers of the Tantric cult, which believes that gratification of earthly desires is a step towards attaining the infinite liberation of nirvana.

Places to see in Khajuraho

State Museum of Tribal & Folk Arts
A fine collection of masterpieces of tribal and folk art and artifacts from all over Madhya Pradesh is on display at the Chandela Cultural Complex. The tradition of tribal and folk arts and crafts has evolved over centuries. It represents the best of Indian culture and tradition and its synthesis with foreign cultures that came through trade and invasions. The State Museum has more than 500 representative items of terracotta, metal craft, woodcraft, tribal and folk paintings, tattoos, jewellery and masks.

Khajuraho Temples
The architectural style of the Khajuraho temples is very different from the temple prototype of that period. Each stands, instead of within the customary enclosure, on a high masonry platform. Combined with the upward direction of the structure, which is further accentuated by vertical projections, the total effect is one of grace and lightness, reminiscent of the Himalayan peaks. Each of the chief compartments has its own roof, grouped in such a way that the highest is in the centre, the lowest over the portico, a triumph of skill and imagination in recreating the rising peaks of a range.

Eastern Group of TemplesAdinath Temple
Dedicated to the Jain saint, Adinath, the temple is lavishly embellished with sculpted figures, including yakshis. The three Hindu temples of the group are the Brahma, containing a four faced lingam, the Vamana, which is adorned on its outer walls with carving of apsaras in a variety of sensuous attitudes; and the javari, with a richly-carved gateway and exterior sculptures.

Western Group of Temples
The Western group is certainly the best known, because it is to this group that the largest and most typical Khajuraho temple belongs: The Kandariya Mahadev.

Southern Group of TemplesDulah Deo Temple
This finest temple at Khajuraho also called Kunwar Math offers some of the choicest sculptures especially the Shalbhanjika. It is a fully developed temple measuring 21 m by 12 m (69 ft. by 40 ft.) with the ardhamanadap, the mandapa, the maha mandapa, the antarala and the garbha griha with no circumambulatory passage.

How to Reach

By Air
Regular services link Khajuraho with Delhi, Agra and Varanasi.

By Rail
The nearest rail heads are Harpalpur (94 km) and Mahoba (61 km ) . Jhansi (172 km) is a convenient rail head for those traveling from Delhi and Madras; Satna (117 km) , on the Mumbai-Allahabad line of the Central Railway for those coming from Mumbai, Calcutta and Varanasi.

By Road
Khajuraho is connected by regular buses with Satna, Harpalpur, Jhansi and Mahoba.

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Mumbai Travel Guide

2007-03-26T03:47:00.000-07:00

Mumbai was given by Portuguese as dowry to Charles II of England when he married Catherine. The group of seven islands was leased to the East India Company who offered freedom of business and religion to persons who came and settled here. Initially a few Parsis and Gujarati came but soon a sizeable population began to thrive here.

This was way back in the 17th century. Today also Mumbai is a city of migrants. People from all over the country have come and settled here. This gives the society of Mumbai a multi-lingual and multi-cultural color.

History of Mumbai:
The Great Indian Peninsular Railway facilitated travel within India. This network of commerce and communication led to an accumulation of wealth.

Mumbai Places to See:
Gateway of India, What could be more appropriates a beginning than the 'entrance' to the port of Mumbai? The ceremonial arch was built in 1927 to Commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary for the Delhi Durbar in 1911.

Haji Ali Mosque:
This early 18th century shrine contains the tomb of Hazrath Haji Ali, a Muslim Sufi saint. There are two local legends which claim to trace the Hazrath’s antecedents.

Mumbai Food & Cuisine:
Indian cooking is distinguished by the use of a larger variety of vegetables than many other well-known cuisines. Within these recognizable similarities, there is an enormous variety of local styles.

Mumbai Bollywood:
Cinema is India's great social leveler: from the President right down to the cobbler, everyone loves a good film. In fact Mumbai boasts the largest movie industry in the world.

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Kolkata Travel Guide

2007-03-26T03:33:00.000-07:00

Kolkata is the largest metropolis in India, Calcutta is a vibrant city on the move, volatile and unpredictable. The Gateway to India, till 1912, and the capital of the Raj in India, it still bears the Victorian imprint on its streets and structures. A city just about ready to burst at the seams, Calcutta is home to more than 10 million people. The Ganga (called the Hooghly in Calcutta) is still the inspiration, as it was to Job Charnok, East India Company agent, who reached the shores in August 1690, to found the city. Calcutta, after London, was the British Empire’s second city.

Places of Interest in Kolkata

• Birla Planetarium:
Only the second of its kind in the commonwealth and similar to that in London. Regular astronomical shows are presented here with commentaries in different languages. Shows are held on all days excluding Mondays.

• Dakshineswar Kali Temple Belur Math :
Built in 1847, on the banks of the Hooghly, north of Calcutta, the temple is associated with Shri Ramakrishna, the eclectic 19th century saint who revived Hinduism during the British Raj. Across the river stands Belur Math, headquarters of Ramakrishna Mission. The Monastery is a
haven of peace and religious harmony.

• Marble Palace :
Situated in an artistically laid-out garden, the place is full of rare collection of antiques of immense artistic and historical value. Wonderful curios, china and a couple of paintings by Rubens are only a few to mention of the spectrum of attractions of the palace. The Marble Palace is situated on Muktaram Babu Street, off Chittaranjan Avenue. Open on all days except Mondays and Thursdays.

Kolkata Fairs & Festivals:
Durga Puja, the most important and the most popular of all Bengali festivals is the Durga puja. It is celebrated throughout the state, but with great grandeur in Calcutta. There are some ancestral houses in Calcutta where Durga puja is being observed over decades and even over centuries.

Kolkata People & Lifestyle
Calcutta is the home of the Bengalis - volatile in politics, sports lover, intellectual, romantic with a unique sensibility. To whom every activity is a commitment of passionate intensity - be it a religious festival, soccer matches, political demonstrations, music, art, poetry reading, eating or adda (chat sessions).

Calcutta breeds culture:
Rabindranath Tagore gave Bengal new composite music, dance drama and literature. Sitar maestro Pandit Ravi Shankar internationalized Indian Classical music. Jamini Roy revived folk painting. Uday Shankar created a new dance form. Indian People’s Theatre Association (IPTA) introduced a new genre of performing arts. Ustad Allauddin Khan created a new orchestra and famous film maker Satyajit Ray’s home and canvas was Calcutta.

Kolkata Cuisine:
The Bengali fondness for good food is legendary. Exotic Bengali cuisine is available at selected restaurants like Suruchi and Aheli (Peerless Inn). To experience the true taste of traditional cooking, it is best to befriend a Bengali. His hospitality will definitely include a meal!
Excursions in Kolkata: Botanical Gardens, located 8 kms from Calcutta on the west bank of Ganga are the famous Botanical Gardens. The highlight of the Gardens is the 200 year old banyan tree, said to be the largest in the world. The tree is 26 meters high with a circumference of approximately 900 feet.

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Jaisalmer Travel Guide

2007-03-26T03:14:00.000-07:00

Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert like a golden mirage is the city of Jaisalmer. A commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone stands, with all its awesome splendor, dominating the amber-hued city.

The city has an interesting legend associated with it, according to which, Lord Krishna-the head of the Yadav Clan, foretold Arjuna that a remote descendent of the Yadav Clan would built his kingdom atop the Trikuta Hill. His prophecy was fulfilled in 1156 A.D. when Rawal Jaisal, a descendent of the Yadav Clan and a Bhatti Rajput, abandoned his fort at Lodurva and founded a new capital -Jaisalmer, perched on the Trikuta Hill.

History:
Bahti Rajputs of Jaisalmer were fedual chiefs who lived off the forced levy on the caravans laden with precious silks and spices that crossed the territory enroute Delhi-or-Sind. These caravans earned the town great wealth.

For years Jaisalmer remained untouched by the outside influences. The rise of shipping trade and the port of Mumbai saw the decline of Jaisalmer. But the desert fortress, that seems to be straight out of the ‘Tales of the Arabian Nights’ still enchants. The life within the citadel conjures up images of medieval majesty visible in its narrow lanes stewn with magnificent palace, havelis, temples and of course skilled artisans and ubiquitous camels.

As a Tourist Place:
Jaisalmer is filled with many artistic structures and monuments of local historical importance. Jaisalmer's medieval mud fortress and walled township make it a popular tourist destination. The surrounding desolate landscape evidences a stark, austere beauty. Camel safaris through the nearby desert dunes are popular with tourists; competition for business is fierce. A few quiet days spent wandering around the town and the surrounding desert can be a wonderful way of unwinding from the chaos of larger Indian cities.

Tourist accommodation is available inside the fort itself. However, eco-conscious tourists might consider staying outside the fort to avoid putting additional pressure on the fort's archaic sewage system (three of the 99 bastions have already crumbled because of water seeping into the foundations).

Visitor attractions

Jaisalmer Fort
Built in 1156 by the Bhati Rajput ruler Jaisal, it is situated on Trikuta Hill and had been the scene of many battles. Its massive sandstone walls are a tawny lion color during the day, turning to a magical honey-gold as the sun sets. The famous Indian film director Satyajit Ray wrote a detective novel and later turned it into a film – Sonar Kella (The Golden Fortress) which was based on this fort. This is a living fort and about a quarter of city's population still live inside the fort. The main attractions inside the fort are: Raj Mahal (Royal palace), Jain temples and the Laxminath temple.

Havelis
The main havelis in Jaisalmer are:

• Patwon-ki-Haveli:
Built by Guman Chand Patwa (and later by his five sons), a wealthy merchant and banker who had over three hundred trading centres from Afghanistan to China. This ornate five-storey complex took fifty years to complete. This is the largest, the most magnificent, and the most elaborate of Jaisalmer havelis.

• Salim Singh-ki-Haveli:
It was built by the scheming Prime Minister Salim Singh in 1815. It has a beautifully arched roof capped with blue cupolas and carved brackets in the form of peacocks.

• Nathmalji-ki-Haveli:
Built by a Prime Minister of princely state of Jaisalmer. Its facade is a riot of ornamentation: flowers, birds, elephants, soldiers, a bicycle and even a steam engine.

Museums

• Desert Culture Centre & Museum
• Jaisalmer Folklore Museum
• Government Museum

The setting sun turning Jaisalmer into a beautiful golden brown is a spectacular sight. The perfect time to visit the golden city is during the Desert Festival, held in Jan/Feb. every year, when the city reverberates to the sound of melodious tunes and rhythms.

Folk dances, exciting competitions an contests, especially the turban-tying contest. Mr. Desert contest and camel races enliven the festivities. Colorful craft bazaars are set up for the occasion and a sound and light spectacle is organized wit folk artists performing against the splendid backdrop of the famous Sam sand dunes on the full moon night. Surely a not-to-be missed event.

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Jaipur Travel Guide

2007-03-26T02:51:00.000-07:00

This famous city is the capital of Rajasthan and has earned universal renown as the "Pink City", and pink it is, with beautiful constructed palaces, havelis and forts. Tall, rugged men with handle-bar whiskers sport bright pink turbans. Jaipur which means the city of victory was built exactly 273 years back and is 262 km by road from Delhi (Capital of India). A strong wall encircles the old city and even today has a suggestion of formidable strength, its function of protecting all within is obvious.

There is a feast in store for tourists. Attractive monuments where one can breathe the fragrance of history. Comfortable and luxurious hotels, once the proud of kings, parks, gardens, and excursions of nearby places of interest, make Jaipur a tourist's paradise.

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

Tourism Places:

Nahagarh Fort
Nahagarh Fort stands on the edge of the Aravalli Hills, overlooking the pink city of Jaipur in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The view of the city from the fort is breath taking. Along with Amber Fort and Jaigarh Fort it formed a strong defence ring for the city. During the Sepoy revolt of 1857, Nahagarh served as a refuge for Europeans fleeing from the havoc created by mutineers in neighboring states. The word Nahargarh means the abode of tigers. Legends say that it was name after Prince Nahar whose spirit haunted the place and obstructed construction of the fort.

Amber Palace
The Amber Palace complex overlooking the artificial lake south of the town of Amber is one of the most popular tourist sites in the city, famous for its mixture of Hindu and Muslim architecture, and offering elephant rides from the town up to the palace courtyard. Although the structure is today known as Amber Fort, the complex was initially a Palace Complex within the Fort of Amber which is today known as Jaigarh fort.

Jaigarh Fort
The Jaigarh Fort on the hills above the Amber Palace complex offers stunning views of the foothills of the Aravalli range, as well as attractions such as immense underground water-storage tanks, a medieval canon foundry and an impressive collection of medieval cannons including the Jaivana which is reputed to be the world's largest cannon on wheels.

Jantar Mantar
The Jantar Mantar is a collection of architectural astronomical instruments, built by Maharaja Jai Singh II at his then new capital of Jaipur between 1727 and 1733. It is modelled after the one that he had built for him at the then Mughal capital of Delhi.

Galtaji
Galtaji is an ancient Hindu pilgrimage site situated 10 km from Jaipur in Indian state of Rajasthan on Jaipur-Agra highway near Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh. It is believed that Saint Galav spent his life here and did meditation. The main temple here is temple of Galtaji in pink stone and has a huge complex. The temple has a number of pavilions with rounded roofs, exquisitely carved pillars and painted walls. The temple is surrounded by natural springs and reservoirs that are considered holy .There are seven tanks here and the Galta Kund is considered the holiest. A large number of people take a holy bath in these tanks especially on Makar Sankranti.

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

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Bangalore Travel Guide

2007-03-26T02:46:00.000-07:00

Delhi Travel Guide

2007-03-26T02:40:00.000-07:00

One of the most fascinating aspects of Delhi is the "visibility" of its historic past. Were it not for the demands of urbanization, large portions of the city could well be earmarked as archaeological parks. This is because the rulers of successive dynasties between the 13th and the 17th centuries established seven cities in different parts of Delhi. A chronological review of these cities fortunately also serves as a suitable itinerary for tourists and highlights the important monuments amongst the 1300 officially listed.

History:
Delhi's history goes much further back in time than the 13th century. In 1955, excavations at the Purana Qila revealed that the site was inhabited 3000 years ago. Ware pottery known as Painted Gray Ware and dated to 1000 BC confirmed this as being yet another site associated with the epic Mahabharata. The excavations also cut through houses and streets of the Sultanate, Rajput, post-Gupta, Gupta, Saka-Kushan and Sunga periods, reaching down to the Mauryan era (300 BC), thus revealing almost continuous habitaion. The association of Emperor Ashoka (273-36 BC) with Delhi has come to light with the discovery of a Minor Rock Edict in the locality known as Srinivaspuri.

A clearer picture of the city emerges from the end of the 10th century, when the Tomar Rajputs established themselves in the in the Aravalli hills south of Delhi. The isolated, rocky outcrop facilitated the defence of the royal resort which the Rajputs called Dhilli or Dhillika. The core of the first of the seven cities was created by Anangpal Tomar who is said to have built Lal Kot, which is the first known regular defence work in Delhi. The Chauhan Rajputs later captured Delhi from the Tomars. Prithviraj III, also known as Rai Pithora, extended Lal Kot, adding massive ramparts and gates, and made Qila Rai Pithora the first city of Delhi.

Today, only the ramparts are visible near the Qutub Minar , though the city is known to have had several Hindu and Jain temples. Prithviraj was ruling Delhi when Muhammad of Ghur invaded India, and died fighting the invader at the Second Battle of Tarain in 1192. Ghur returned, but left as his viceroy, his slave Qutbuddin Aibak.

In 1206, Qutbuddin crowned himself as the Sultan of the Slave or Mamluk dynasty, and became the first Muslim ruler of Delhi. Qutbuddin, had however, commenced his architectural career even before he chose to become the sultan. The mosque was essential to the Islamic emphasis on congregational prayer, while the burial of the dead, as opposed to cremation, introduced the tomb to India.

The earliest of these Islamic structures are to be seen in the Qutub complex and the incorporation of many Hindu elements is due to the ready availability of building material and the use of local craftsmen. Qutbuddin raised the Quwwat-ul-Islam (might of Islam) mosque, which is the earliest extant mosque in India. Within its spacious courtyard he retained the 4th century Iron Pillar, probably the standard of an ancient Vishnu temple. The pillar has puzzled scientists, as its iron has not rusted in all these centuries.

In 1199, Qutbuddin raised the Qutub Minar either as a victory tower or as a minaret to the adjacent mosque. From a base of 14.32 mtrs it tapers to 2.75 mtrs at a height of 72.5 mtrs. It is still the highest stone tower in India, one of the finest tower Islamic structures ever raised and Delhi's recognized landmark. It was completed by the Sultan's successor and son-in-low, Iltutmish. The tomb of Iltutmish, which he himself built in 1235, is nearby. Its interiors are profusely decorated with calligraphy, thought the dome has collapsed.

The Khalji rulers displaced the Slave dynasty in 1290, and when Alauddin Khali ordered renovations of the mosque in 1311, he also raised the impressive Alai Darwaza, the southern entrance to the mosque. It is the first example of a building employing wholly Islamic principles of construction, including the true arch. In 1303, Alauddin, established the second city of Delhi, called Siri, of which nothing remains but the embattlements. He also had dug a vast reservoir, Hauz Khas, to sypply water to his city.

Contemporary historians describe the Delhi of that time as being the "envy of Baghdad, the rival of Cairo and the equal of Constantinople". (for the sake of convenience, tourists visiting the Qutb complex could also see the Tomb of Adham Khan and Zafar Mahal in Mehrauli, and the Tomb of Jamai-Kamali behind the Qutb Minar. These, however, belong to a later date.) The Khalhjis were replaced by the Tughlaq dynasty in 1321. Of its eleven rulers, only the first three were interested in architecture and each of them established a new city.

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Agra Travel Guide

2007-03-26T02:35:00.000-07:00

Agra is the one of the prominent destinations of the World Tourism map with three heritage monuments-The Taj Mahal, Red Fort & Fatehpur Sikri. It is more just a decadent city of graveyards and stones, but it is a vibrant centre of Culture, Art and Religious philosophies that have enriched mankind and shaped human thought over centuries.

Agra is situated in the State of Uttar Pradesh, India. Agra is famous for handicrafts products such as Inley work on Marvel, Leather work, Footwear, Brasswear, Carpets, Jwellery, Zari and Embroidery work. It is also well known for Petha, Dalmoth and Gajak.

Agra is famous as being home to one of the seven wonders of the world-the Taj Mahal. The architectural splendor of the mausoleums, the fort and the palaces is a vivid remainder of the mausoleums, the fort and the palaces is a vivid reminder of the capital in the 16th and early 17th centuries.

While its significance as a political centre ended with the transfer of the capital to Delhi in 1634 by ShahJahan, its architectural wealth has secured its place on the international map.
A pleasant town with comparatively slow pace, Agra is known for its superb inlay work on marble and soastone by craftsman who is descendant of those who worked under the Mughals. The city is also famous for its carpets, gold thread embroidery and leather shoes.

Agra was once the capital of the Mughal empire and even today it seems to linger in the past. Not surprising, for the Mughal emperors with their passion for building, endowed the city with some of the finest structures in the world. It is very easy to slip away here through the centuries into the grandeur and intrigues of the Mughal court.

Agra is an old city and it is said that its name was derived from Agrabana, a forest that finds mention in the epic Mahabharata.

In more recent times Agra came into prominence when Sikandar Lodi made it his capital city in 1501. The Lodi rule was to end very soon and Agra passed into the possession of the Mughals.
It was during the time of the third emperor Akbar that Agra came into its own . He embarked on the construction of the massive Agra Fort in 1565. Though Akbar was diverted into building a new capital at Fatehpur sikri not far away.

Agra continued to retain its importance and ShahJahan, Akbar's grandson ornamented the city with that masterpiece of Mughal architecture - the Taj Mahal and built several other beautiful buildings within the Agra fort.

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Jodhpur Travel Guide

2007-03-24T03:07:00.000-07:00

Jodhpur is the second largest city in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It was formerly the seat of a princely state of the same name, also known as Marwar. Jodhpur is a popular tourist destination, featuring many beautiful palaces, forts and temples, apart from a stark, scenic desert landscape. The city is known as the "Sun City" for the bright, sunny weather it enjoys all year. It is also referred as the Blue City, due to the indigo tinge of the whitewashed houses around the Mehrangarh Fort. Jodhpur is also known for gentleness of its people. Jodhpur lies near the geographic center of Rajasthan state, which makes it a convenient base for travel in a region much frequented by tourists. The old city of Jodhpur is surrounded by a thick stone wall. The wall has six huge gates called Nagauri gate, Merati gate, Sojati gate, Jalori gate, Siwanchi gate and Chand pol.

Places to See in Jodhpur

Forts and Palaces:

• Umaid Bhawan Palace
Maharaja Umaid Singhji who built this palace was fascinated with western lifestyles so he marshalled the services of a well-known Edwardian architect, Henry Vaughan Lanchester, a creditable equal of Edward Lutyens (architect of New Delhi) to construct a three hundred and forty seven roomed Umaid Palace.

• Mehrangarh Fort
Perched on a 150 m high hill its sprawl is the most formidable and magnificent fort in Rajasthan. Rao Jodha founded it in 1459 but subsequent rulers of Jodhpur have also added to it over the centuries. A meandering road leads to the from the city 5 kms below. Battle scars of canon ball hit by attacking armies of Jaipur can still be seen on the second gate.

Museums of Jodhpur

• Mehrangarh Fort Museum
In the middle of the Umaid Public Garden, this museum houses a rich collection of exhibits armoury, textile, local arts and crafts, and miniature paintings. And even portraits of rulers, manuscripts and images of Jain Tirthankars. Umaid Public Garden houses a zoo and public library. This building and the garden were developed during the time of Maharaj Umaid Singhji.

• Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum
Maharaja Umaid Singhji who built this palace was fascinated with western lifestyles so he marshalled the services of a well-known Edwardian architect, Henry Vaughan Lanchester, a creditable equal of Edward Lutyens (architect of New Delhi) to construct a three hundred and forty seven roomed Umaid Palace. This was to become India last of the great palaces and the biggest private residence in the world.

Parks in Jodhpur

Mandore Garden
Mandore was the former capital of Maharajas of Marwar and is located about 5 miles north of Jodhpur, but was later abandoned for the security of Mehrangarh fort. Here you will find the dewals, or cenotaphs of Jodhpur's former rulers. Unlike the usual chhatri-shaped cenotaphs typical of Rajasthan, they were built along the lines of a Hindu temple, four stories high, with fine columns and an elegant spire, all in red sandstone. The most impressive is the dewal of Maharaja Ajit Singh (reigned 1678-1724). These cenotaphs are set in beautiful landscaped gardens.

Fairs & Festivals of Jodhpur

• Nagaur Fair
This eight days fair held every year during the month of Jan-Feb, is popularly known as the Cattle fair and is the second largest in Rajasthan. Nagaur Town is the most picturesque of Rajput townships. Nagaur is a sea of animals, trading over 70,000 bullocks, camels and horses every year. The bullocks are known for their fleetness. Not only are the animals lavishly decorated, even their owners flaunt wearing colourful turbans and long moustaches.

• Makar Sankranti
The festival is celebrated on the 14th of January every year. This has now become the festival of kite-flying which does not spare the soaring spirits of anyone in Jaipur. The devoted ones, however, take a holy dip in the kund at Galtaji. The traditional sweet associated with it is Phirni, made in abundance by the halwais of Jaipur.

• Elephant Festival
This festival is held on the day of Holi, the festival of colours, at the Chaughan stadium. Beautifully decorated and caparisoned elephants assemble to participate in the royal procession. Elephant polo, elephant race,elephant tug-of-war with a few tourist and holi on elephant back are some of the exciting events.

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Cochin Travel Guide

2007-03-23T22:08:00.000-07:00

Kochi (formerly known as Cochin) is a city in the Indian state of Kerala. The city is one of the principal seaports of the country and is located in the district of Ernakulam, about 220 kilometres (140 mi) north of the state capital, Thiruvananthapuram.

Culture
Kochi has a diverse, multicultural, and secular community consisting of Hindus, Christians, Muslims, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists among other denominations, all living in peaceful co-existence. The Head of the Syro-Malabar Church has his seat at Ernakulam. The city once had a large Jewish community, known as the Malabar Yehuden—and now increasingly as Cochin Jews—that figured prominently in Kochi's business and economic strata.

Residents of Kochi are known as Kochiites; they are an important part of the South Indian weltanschauung. However, the city's culture is rapidly evolving, with Kochiites generally becoming more cosmopolitan in their outlook. The people are also increasingly fashion-conscious, often deviating from the traditional Kerala wear to western clothing. Kochiites are known for their enthusiasm in sports, especially cricket and football. The Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kochi is one of the largest multi-use stadiums in India. The Regional Sports Centre is an important centre of sporting activity in the city.

Cochin Best Season
Being situated very close to the sea, Cochin has a moderate climate. Heavy showers are experienced during the months of June, July and August due to the south-west monsoon. The north-east monsoon brings light rainfall during the months of September to December. December to February is pretty cool.

Events:

• Athachamayam Thrippunithara Ernakulam
An occasion to witness almost all the folk art forms of Kerala, Athachamayam marks the beginning of the ten-day Onam festival in Kerala. Conducted on the Atham asterism of the Malayalam month Chingam (Leo), the event today commemorates a royal custom of the Maharajas of Kochi State. In olden days it was customary for the king to travel with his entire entourage to the Thripunithura fort. This was also the occasion for his subjects to greet the king and see him at close quarters. The procession, now without the king, still retains its majestic charm, and is conducted in a spectacular manner.

• Kanjiramattom Mosque, Eranakulam
This mosque, 25 km from Kochi, is believed to have been built as a memorial to Sheikh Fariduddin. The festival of ' Kodikuthu' commences on January 2 this year. During the ' Chandanakkudam' ritual held at night, pilgrims carrying pots covered with sandalwood paste proceed in a procession to the mosque. Six caparisoned elephants and folk performances accompany the procession. Traditional Muslim art forms like Oppana and Mappilappattu are also staged during the festival. Kochi is well connected by rail and road to different other tourist places in India and also has an airport.

Transport
Public transport in the city is largely dependent on private buses. Taxis and autorickshaws (called autos) are available for hire throughout the day. Narrow roads and the mix of vastly differing types of vehicles have made traffic congestion a major problem in the city. A metro rapid transit service, intended to considerably ease congestion, is planned for the city.

The Cochin International Airport, which is about 25 kilometres (15 mi) north of the city, handles both domestic and international flights. It is the largest airport of Kerala, and one of the busiest in India. It is the first international airport in India to be built without Central Government funds. A second airport run by the Navy also operates in the city.

There is no intra-city rail transport system in Kochi. The inter-city rail transport system in the city is administered by the Southern Railway division of the Indian Railways. There are two main railway stations the Ernakulam Junction and the Ernakulam Town. The railway line connecting these two stations cuts the city longitudinally in two, with two narrow bridges connecting the two halves.

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