Travel Guru's Mantras

Indian Festivals in the Month of October

2011-09-01T20:00:00.003+05:30

October is the month when most of the cities in India comes back to life. During this time, India in different lengths and breadths gets splurge into the happiness of festivity. The people of all sects decorate their homes with various types of accessories. From Southern India to Northern India, all festivals are celebrated in a different way. Details about different festivals of India are as follows:

Mysore Dussehra: Dussehra in celebrated all over India. By burning the effigies of the demon Raavana, people celebrate this festivity as the triumph of good over evil. But Mysore Dusshera holds a great significance in Southern India. Mysore is beautiful city dotted in Karnataka, South India. In most parts of India, Dussehra is celebrated for one day and but in Mysore Dussehra is celebrated for 10 days. In the year 2011, the celebrations for Dussehra will start from 28th September 2011 to 6th October 2011.

However, the main attraction takes place on the last day of the festival. A traditional Dussehra procession (known as Jumboo Savari) winds its way through the streets of Mysore, starting from Mysore Palace and ending in Bannimantap. It features an idol of the Goddess Chamundeshwari, carried atop a lavishly decorated elephant. In the evening, there's a torch-light parade at the Bannimantap grounds on the outskirts of the city. Highlights include fireworks, daredevil stunts on motorcycles, and a laser show.

Mysore Dussehra: When and Where?

The Mysore Dussehra Festival is celebrated from 7:00 Pm to 10:00 Pm. The Mysore Palace is illuminated with 100,000 lights. The venue for Dussehra celebrations are auditorium, grounds, Maharaj’s Chamundi ground and Chamundi hill. During this time various exhibitions, stalls, and contests are also placed in which the locales as well the leisure travelers can participate. The main attraction of this festival is during the last day when a traditional Dussehra procession(known as Jumboo Savari follows the way through streets of Mysore, starting from Mysore Palace and ending in Bannimantap. It features an idol of goddess Chamundeshwari, carried a top a lavishly decorated caparisoned elephant. During the evening time, the torch light parade is also carried in the evening. Apart from the processions, the main highlights of includes fireworks, daredevil stunts on motorcycles and a laser show.

Soorya Dance Festival, Thiruvananathapuram, Kerala: The Soorya dance festival is celebrated in the month of October. It starts from 1st October and ends on 10th October every year. It is celebrated for 10 days. The festival is organized by the Soorya stage and film society. In this festival various dance forms, various sound and light shows, paintings, film festivals, photography and lectures are organized. The travellers who want to get the glimpse of the real Indian culture at the Soorya dance festival.
Venue: Tagore Theatre

Navarathri: Navrathri festival is another festival which is celebrated in every corner of India. This festival is celebrated to offer prayers to the nine goddesses. It is believed that by performing the various holy ablutions according to the Vedic texts could relinquish the devotees from all sins. During this time special pujas, and mythological storey sessions are organized all over India. In Gujarat special Dandiya sessions are organized, in Kerala-the devotees of the goddess organize religious get together, in Kolkota Durga Puja festivity are organized with great interest and devotion. The temples over India are illuminated with colourful lights. During all these nine days special fasts are observed by the people all over India. These fasts are kept to purify the senses and get connected directly with the almighty goddess. On the ninth day, special pujas as well as prayers are performed. In the states like Punjab and Rajasthan, big carnivals are organized in the month of October.

Festival Date of Navrathri: 8 October 2011 to 16 October 2011

Diwali: Diwali this time will be celebrated on 26th October 2011. People on this day burn oil lamps with the aim to create enlightenment and vanish out darkness from their lives. In Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, this festivity lasts for 5 days. In some parts of Uttar Pardesh like Ayodhaya, the preparation for this festivity from 1 month ahead. The people during this eve, ornament their houses with the colourful lights and flowers. The tapestry of colourful lights can be seen all over homes and temples. The temples echo with the voice of Vedic chants. Carnivals, processions and get together are also organized at the regional levels. Prayers being the indispensable part of this festvity, are offered to the Lord Rama duirng the evenings. As Lord Rama returned with his consort Sita after the exile of 14 years, the memoir for that event is kept in the mind and Diwali is celebrated in full swing.

Beaches of Maharashtra

2011-06-28T20:21:00.004+05:30

Beaches in Maharashtra have the rich potential to offer a relaxing weekend getaway. Many Mumbaikars have built there farm houses where the travelers could spend holidays in complete seclusion and solitude. Some cultivate flowers, others cultivate mushrooms. Perched in South Western India, you can spend your evening with family or friends. In many ways the beaches of Maharashtra are mirrors to the dynamic culture of India. The beaches are a good place where the vacationers also get infinite numbers of health treatments which can cure the body ailments . If the travelers have penchant for the delectable cuisines of the state, then they must filter there appetite from the useless meals and try the one at the Beaches of Maharashtra. The travelers can get an opportunity to see the cliffs, plateaus, gentle spurs and forts. The best known beaches of Maharashtra are as follows:

Karjat: Karjat is a nice beach for weekend options. The travelers can come here to health resorts, chill out at friends’ farm house. The vacationers who are lucky and have strong penchant for adventure, then they can climb to imposing Maratha forts, attempt some easy treks, or go on a monsoon white water rafting trip on the Ulhas River. From Karjat the travelers can take rickshaw and trail to Kondana Village. From the Kondana Village, the revelers can follow an easy trail to the ruins of rock caves of Kondana Village. These are basically the Buddhists caves complete with stupas, chaitya, Vihara, and sculptures. If the vacationers seek an adrenaline rush adventure, Karjat will oblige. The walk up to the Bhimashankar can be an out of the box experience. To explore Karjat more deeply, the vacationers can spend the day/night at hotels in Karjat.

Malshej Ghat: It is located in Pune district of Maharashtra. Situated at a height of 700m above the sea level, Malshej Ghat is trekker’s and adventure lover’s favorite destination. Malshej Ghat also offers a panoramic beauty of the nature. With a rejuvenating climate, charming mountains, Malshej Ghat is a perfect holiday retreat.
The best time to visit Malshej Ghat is during the winter, when the weather is cool and everything around looks green and fresh. With many lakes and meandering waterfalls, Malshej Ghat is a place where you can relax in solitude. The attractions of Malshej Ghat are the Shivenri Fort, where the great Maratha ruler Shivaji was born, Buddhist caves belonging to the 3rd century, Harishchandragadh, Ozar and Lenyadri, Ganesh and Shiva temples and Bhima River. But the most unique attraction of Malshej Ghat is the migratory flamingos which come during the monsoon.

Kamshet: As the travelers cruise down to the Mumbai-Pune expressway, keep the accelerator down to Lonavala and turn into the nondescript town of Kamshet. The travelers at Kamshet can go for adventure activities. They can grasp the bird’s eye view, give paragliding a try. Located 1189 km from Mumbai, the travelers can reach this destination by road in three hours and by rail in 2 ½ hours. It is 16 km ahead of the twin hill station of Kahndala and Lonavala which is 2100ft above the sea level. The Kondeshwar temple, Bedsa caves, and shopping for quilts in the town of Kamshet. The backpackers can pick up the Indrayani rice, a fragrant variety grown in the area. This destination is a perfect place for the quiet picnic.

Bhimashankar: Garlanded in the state of Maharashtra, Bhimashankar is located 273 km in North East of Mumbai. The sacred Bhimashankar flanks a broad hill top in the Northern Sahyadris. The picturesque post card beauty of this hill station makes Bhimashankar tailor made for travelers in search of a spiritual odyssey midst mountain splendor. The travelers, who want to come in rare communion with the nature, set against the backdrop of a rich Sahyadri wildlife sanctuary. The sanctuary offers a profound spiritual expedition, so when you are done traversing the thickly wooded plateau, you can pay your respects to god before returning to the call of wild. The travelers while on a tour to this place can venture in the Swayambhu Lingam temple. This temple was constructed by Nana Phadnavis, a diplomat from the court of Peshwas. The Bhimashankar has the temple of Guptbheema, the origin of the River Bhima. The worship of sacred groves—forests protected because of their mythical association with a god—is an age old practice in lush Bhimashankar.

Amarnath Shrine--The Abode of Lord Shiva

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Situated at the height of 14,000ft, it is the only Ice Linga in the world nestled at a great elevation. Thousands of travelers visit this sanctum during the month of August to June when the ice lingam waxes and later wanes with the changing phases of moon. In geographical parlance, it is like any other stalagmite ice formation in the caves which grows in the upward position. The perfect perfectly ice shaped Swayambhu Linga catches an eye of every pilgrim and never fails to amaze them. Such is the hallowing effect of the ice lingam that every pilgrim comes with a miracle story to tell. Since it is believed that Shiva manifested himself on this day, the month of Shravan(August) is said to be most auspicious for the visit.

In mythology, Amaranth is described as the laughter of Lord Shiva. According to legends, Goddess Parvati demanded Lord Shiva to reveal the secret of immortality, but Lord Shiva tried to procrastinate. Being so resolute to her wish, Lord Shiva later decided to indulge her in revealing the secret of cosmos. He searched for a lonely place where no one can reach. Slowly and steadily, he worn out all his belongings, and finally he reached at the place where he could narrate the secret of cosmos. Fortunately, he found that place at the up hill from where he narrated the secret of immortality. Although, there was no human presence in the cave but unknowingly, eggs of pigeons lying under the seat of Lord Shiva heard the truth and became immortal. The roofs in the Amarnath cave from those times have been the permanent abode of those pigeons.

The journey for Amarnath starts from Jammu which ends at Pahalgam. With the total distance of 315kms, the taxi and bus from here charge Rs 4,000 to 6000. The journey goes from Udhampur from it reaches to Dhava, followed by Patnitop, Jwahar tunnel, Qauzigund, Anantanag, Banihal and Pahalgaum. The pilgrimage camp is just 1.5 km from Pahalgaum. At this pilgrimage camp, the travelers can go for a night stay. The accommodations options at Pahalgam include a stay with folding bed and another without folding bed. After recharging the body senses, the pilgrims can move to Chandanwari which can be covered by boarding taxi or bus. But as the word of caution, the pilgrims must book the hotels around Amarnath from where they can also get the taxis booked in advance. From Chandanwari to Amarnath which is 16km, the pilgrims can cover the remaining distance by foot.

The pilgrims as an alternative can also take short route from Jammu via Srinagar followed by Sonmarg and finally Baltal. From Baltal, the travelers can take a route from Sangam top which ascends to the holy cave. The total journey from Jammu via Srinagar followed by Sonmarg is 414 km. The distance from Baltal to Amarnath cave is 14 km which can be covered by foot. Further a few meters ahead, the pilgrims can buy prasadam from the shops set up by JKTDC government. There are separate plastic toilet booths for the pilgrims. Proper cleanliness drives and maintenance tasks are carried by the Jammu and Kashmir government authorities. The hot water facility is also available which can be purchased at the price tag of RS 30 to Rs 40 per bucket.

The shrine opens from 7:00Am to 5:00 pm, during the month of June to August. Depending on the climatic conditions, the timings may vary. The visitors must carry woolens, umbrella and the band aid box for emergency needs.

To make the touring experience more better the pilgrims can also book hotels in Kashmir which can be availed at excellent price tags. There is a vast range of budget as well as luxury hotels in Kashmir which provide a peaceful stay to the pilgrims. So come and get relieved from all the sins, exclusively at Amarnath Shrine.

Sight seeings of Manali

2011-04-28T18:04:00.002+05:30

Sight seeings of Manali

Manali nestled in Himachal Pradesh, North India is visited by millions of domestic as well as foreign travelers every year. The town known by travelers is actually formed by the clusters of three hills. Each hill has a village and a temple dominating it. Manu Temple, Vashishtha Temple and Dhungri temple are the main three temples worshiped by the locales. Ruled by the erstwhile British kingdom, the tasks of construction and development were never undertaken by them. Perhaps, this also remains one of the key reasons that the travel enthusiasts easily associate themselves with an unspoiled beauty of the region.

In the 60’s and 70’s many Europeans settled here, married locales, discovered yoga and started their own cafes. After the Hippy Tourism, then came the Israeli tourism, young men and women form compulsory military service started arriving in hordes. Manali started getting a global identity as good numbers of travelers commenced visiting this fabulous place on earth. Different restaurants and food cafes offer different types of cuisines. Tibetan, Israeli and Chinese flavors are big hits amongst the travelers coming here. Momos, Pancakes, ginger honey are the famous tongue twisters. At garment shops in Manali the travelers have an opportunity to shop for the unique and traditional attire. The internet cafes here perform the multitasking job of booking tickets, arranging river rafting and para gliding. Besides this, beas, cedar, pir pinjal and Bara Bhangal ranges are the destinations which can put a long lasting effect on the vacationers. Such is the beauty of this hill station that it may leave the traveler spellbound for a few days. The sights seeing of Manali are as follows:

Skiing at Solang: Solang Nallah is a pretty stretch, 13 km from Manali, where most of the area’s adventure activity is centered. The travelers can reach here by bus, taxi or car. The vast ice capped meadows spread here provides an opportunity to try their hands on skiing or other mountain sports. The travelers can also try 10-15 minutes of ride on paragliding which cost around Rs 1000 and Rs 2700 respectively. These 15 minutes rides will take real man out of the travelers who love to enjoy the thrills or frills of risky sky rides.

Rohtang Pass/ Snow Point: The 51 km climb of 13,400 foot high pass is formidable.
But once the travelers reach at the apex point of the pass, they can see the picturesque mountains, superfluous array of glaciers and mud drenched snow peaks at Lahaul Valley below. The travelers can saunter through the vast strips of land in the months of July and September. If the travelers are going in the winter season then they must make a visit to the ‘Snow Point’ before Rohtang. It’s the closest point to Manali. The aspiring travelers can also savor the phenomenal views of the Beas, Rahalla falls, Sonpani glacier and the Chandra Glacier. The hill top of the pass offers the phenomenal views of the dawn which is surely an idyllic exhibition of nature at its best. From Manali Taxi charges Rs 1500-1700 full day return fare. There are good numbers of luxury as well as budget Hotels in Manali consisting of all the necessary facilities. The Manali hotels even at high elevation point take care of all the luxuries and comforts of the travelers. Special arrangements and royal suites are also available for the honeymoon couples. Hot water geysers, platter of meals, cab facility, soft cushioned beds, staff on call, 24 hours room service are the facilities which can be availed at the price tags suiting every pocket. The travelers can also avail Manali Tour Packages in which the travelers schedule is planned according to the comprehensively designed itinerary.

Reach ability: The nearest air port to Manali is Bhuntar Airport is 50 km away and it takes around 2 hours to reach here by taxi. If the travelers aspire to come by train, then the most feasible rail head in terms of reach ability is Chandigarh. It takes 8 hours to reach Chandigarh by taxi and it charges 2100 rupees. The journey by road is 551km which is a 14 hour drive From Delhi drive to Chandigarh via Panipat, karnal and Ambala. The travelers can also take HPTC buses which Rs 800 to 1800 for A/C and Volvo buses.

Beaches of Andhra Pradesh

2011-03-12T14:43:00.001+05:30

Andhra Pradesh situated in Southern India is adorned with good numbers of emerald beaches. These beaches collectively being the parts of Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean have opened many vistas for the vacationers which simply make unwinding possible.

The Beaches of Andhra Pradesh are fabulous tourist attractions surrounded by verdure hills, bustling wild life and palm trees. Such is the beauty of Andhra Pradesh that the soul of the vacationers will be filled with the spiritual bounty. In this aspect, Vishakhapatnam remains an unrivaled contender amongst the chain of beaches present in Andhra Pradesh. The beaches of Andhra Pradesh which can be visited by the vacationers are as follows:

Rushikonda: Rushikonda just 8 km from Vizag, this beach is splurged in the golden glaze of sand. The travelers during their spare time can laze around this beach with family or friends or someone really special. The honeymoon couples visiting these beaches have an excellent opportunity to explore each other in complete sanctity and seclusion.

Dolphin Nose: The Dolphin Nose and the port, known for its commanding view is also a marvelous place to stroll. This destination fascinates every vacationer. The sun rise and sun set remains the must sees of the region. The light house 358 meters above sea level, endows the travelers with the bird’s eye view of the whole place.

Ramakrishna Beach: Located at a commutable distance of few kilometers, Ramakrishna mission beach is vizag’s most favorite sojourn. This destination is garlanded by lush green hills which makes it an exciting rejuvenation spot. An aquarium, Kali Temple, Vishakha museum, a rare Submarine museum and the road side restaurants offering sumptuous sea food remains the other attractions. The hotels in Ramakrishna beach located near by the beach can also be availed by the revelers. There are many budget as well as luxury Hotels in Ramakrishna mission beach which are assured to make the entire stay of the vacationers simply a great experience.

Narsapur: Narsapur dotted with infinite numbers of temples is nestled about 128 km from Eluru and 440 km from Hyderabad. The Perupalem Beach in the same area is perched 20 km from the town. The travelers while on a visit to this place can also go for the best buys popular at this place. The important finds for the shoppers here include dining sets, handkerchiefs, pillow covers, curtains, table cloth, and bed sheets. The Durga Laxmaneshwara temple is another attraction in the region.

Suryalanka Beach: Suryalanka Beach is a blissful tourist spot which is still not known to many. This beach lying in complete state of incognito is adorned with peace, where a visit can most surely be an invigorating experience for the first timers. Suryalanka beach located 9 km from Baptala, Guntur and attracts many vacationers during weekends and holidays, offers pure relaxation amidst the pristine cusp of nature. There are also good numbers of resorts and Hotels in Suryalanka Beach which are assured to provide a comfortable stay to the revelers.

Vodarevu: Nestled 6 km from Chirala and 35 km from Guntur, Vodarevu is a charming and scenic beach. It is a popular weekend Getaway for all those seeking to move away from the hustle and bustle of city life. This beach is an ideal place to enjoy a weekend break . Another captivating beach in the same region is located, 6 km from Vodarevu.

The Haritha hotels at all the above mentioned beaches provide an excellent stay to the travelers seeking for complete comfort and luxury. There are also budget and luxury Hotels in Andhra Pradesh which are assured to suit every budget with a great ease. Besides accommodation, the travelers must not forget to splurge their senses into mouth watering cuisines of Andhra Pradesh. The sea food offered by road side restaurants must not be given a miss by any chance.

The APTDC offers tailor made itineraries which specially schedules a visit to all the above mentioned beaches. If our words have really boosted your morale, then pack your bags and unwind yourself at the Beaches of Andhra Pradesh, still untouched and pristine.

Tarkarli Beach

2011-02-03T17:21:00.002+05:30

Situated in Maharashtra, 533 km from south of Mumbai, Tarkarli is like a shining jewel in the emerald beaches of konkan belt. The dinghy lanes, swaying palm trees and the cacophonous sound of the sea waves all combine to make Tarkarli an exotic destination. The wrinkling sea shore of the region boasts the finest talcum powder sand to be found along the Konkan.

The water is so clear that you can see the sea bed up to the depth of 15ft or more. Laze in the hammock or stroll around, this beach is definitely the right place to recharge your senses in complete sanctity. While on a walk, the travelers if fortunate enough could figure turtle laying eggs on the beach side which can bestow the revelers a chance to click some photographs and capture them in the camera. Near by, in vicinity are the Kolamb and Achra beach. These two beaches are the perfect tourist destinations for all those revelers seeking for a complete peace and seclusion. Tarkarli has an 8-km coastline which makes it ideal destination for an early morning walk. Here you can enjoy the feel of soft sand digging sand under your feet. Overlooked by a dynamic town of Malvan, the commanding view of the region will surely leave your eyes with reverence. The market place in close proximity held between 5:00 Pm to 7:00 Pm is braced with few restaurants which are quiet less to feed many mouths. But still the food they offer is quiet satiating to the senses as well as soul. Fishes are auctioned every day here. Boats for Sindhugurg Sea forts leave at regular 5-10 minutes from a special tourist pier in Malvan. In the off season country craft leave at regular 15 minutes and in monsoon after every one hour if you are lucky. There is also a marine sanctuary which holds marine festival every year.

The little fish village of Deobagh, lies wedged between the sea and Karli river. The pleasant little walk at the beach side just before the sunset would surely greet the revelers with the new lease of life. After the long day of hard work, the local populaces bustling in the region unwind their routine work and later, go for a siesta break. Men repairing nets, kids playing games and the star fish drawing different patterns in the sand would take you in the times immemorial when simplicity remained endemic. Besides this, if you think that you have discovered every thing then may be you are wrong. Don’t leave Tarkarli without clambering on to the MTDC houseboat. Like the backwaters of Kerala, the Karli River serves as the lifeline for the folks who daily commute from one sea shore to another. The daily businesses of the region are carried by these beaten boats which ferry residents, life stock farm produce and furniture. The backwater cruises were also launched during the year 2003 by MTDC. The MTDC thatched beach restaurant fronts are the excellent eateries in the region. There are also few resorts run by the families residing in the region. The restaurants made in shacks, offers the revelers to splurge their senses in the appetizing cuisines. The kokum berries, spicy flavors and the fish come straight out of the nets heightens the epicurean experience.

The nearest airport is Dabolim Goa which is around I60 km and takes 2 hours to reach by taxi. The travelers can also board the train namely Konkan Kanya express from Kudai railway station which is 1 hour way from the beach. Mahad and Chiplun are the major en route halts. So if you are driving a car then turn off NH17 at Kasal. 15 km ahead of Kankavali, catch SH 118 to Malvan which is 33 km away. Tarkarli is 7km further down the Malvan Coast. The regular ST buses also ply from Mumbai to the different regions of Tarkarli. There are good numbers of Hotels in Tarakli beach which are blessed with one of the best spate of faculties. The Hotels in India adhering to similar standards come in varied range of price tags. MTDC holiday resort, Apoorva resort and Ramesh Mithbavkar’s home are some of the luxury and budget accommodations in the same series.

The Malvani Cuisines of the region are quiet famous and its sense provoking aroma can be best remembered in the form of cherished memoirs. So come and get lazed on the white sand of the Tarakrli Beach. The picturesque landscapes of the region are waiting for your first footsteps. So come and get yourself rejuvenated at Tarakrli beach.

Wedding Destinations: wings for your whims and fancies

2011-01-19T20:46:00.004+05:30

The word wedding always create some strange kind of goose bumps amongst the young bustling populace girding in their marriageable age or still looking for a right match. By talking about marriage, you may seem like giving a tacit smile; as per our assumptions. Perhaps giving a new height to the pace of thoughts, tying a nuptial knot under the bask of shining sunlight, swaying palm trees, surging sea waves, snow draped hills are the faculties that could certainly compel you to think about planning your marriage in advance. These wedding destinations include Umaid Bhawan, Jodhpur, Goa, Kerala, Devigarh Palace-Udaipur, Lakshwadeep Islands, Dhanauti and Ranthambore. Gone are the days when people in the late 60’s, 70’s, 80’ or 90’s used to organize their weddings in a complete retro style. The words like innovation and uniqueness were still unheard for the ears. But in the 21st century AD, the above mentioned terms got new lease of life and today if calculated in robust figures, wedding industry continues to grow at 25 percent annually. The theme weddings are becoming hot favorites and hiring a wedding planner has become a style statement amongst the cluster of crowds who love to make this gala event a memorable affair. To provide you with the best spate of options, the aspiring enthusiasts can take a glance at the detailed description of 7 most fabulous wedding destinations in India which are as follows:

Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur: The Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur is etched out of the Golden sandstone which is an art integrated marvel. Savoring you with the taste of glitz and glamour, this palace has been graced with the special demeanor. The oodles of marble instilled on the floors, the captivating minarets and a hospitable welcome in a complete royal style can be something which could definitely make you feel like then real titans of the world. A single visit to this place would leave your eyes freeze. Built to cater the royal ceremonies, this palace is known to have hosted the nuptials of actress Elizabeth Hurley and Indian businessman Arun Nayar.

Goa: Known as the Rome of East of Rome, Goa is famous for its beach wedding. Its pristine beaches, vast stretches of swaying palms and breathtaking canopies, all combine to fulfill the motif of a dream wedding. There are many beach resorts, and Hotels in Goa which could definitely gives its way to a new form of carnal desire. Getting lazed on the emerald beaches, and watching the evening sunset is what Goa has to offer. If you want to host a private celebration then its better recommended choosing the secluded beach resorts or hotels in Goa.

Kerala: Seamless chanting of the Vedic mantras against the backdrop of the house boats veering in the crystal backwaters would off course bestow the wedding enthusiasts with the experience completely mundane but still unique in every sense. Garlanded with the immaculate spate of natural faculties like coffee and tea plantations, azure skies, bewitching emerald beaches, and houseboats, Kerala is surely the destination made for hosting weddings. Kerala genuinely offers the India of your imagination. Strolling hand in hand with your bride or groom, you will definitely be blessed with the series of memorabilia. The beach resorts and hotels in Kerala bestow the revelers with an opportunity to get laced in complete state of trance with your spouse, thus leaving all your worries behind.

Devigarh Palace Udaipur: If you still remember the glitz of Vikram Chatwaal’s wedding at Devigarh Palace, Udaipur, then may be the next wedding could be yours. Perched in the Aravlli Hills, it is an 18th century palace, which was once the throne of kings and queens. This palace certainly looks like a dreamland intricately placed by the god on earth. It was recently re-styled in a sleek contemporary way to suit the tastes of the people hailing from higher echelons of society. There are many luxury and semi luxury suites in the palace, professed to provide the vacationers with the much desired king size weddings.

Lakshwadeep Islands: Planning a wedding at Laskhwadeep islands can be an ideal thought. Blessed with coral reefs, swindling palm trees, and the lush green forests, Lakshwadeep is an incomparable destination best suited to the instincts of the honeymoon couples as wedding enthusiasts seeking to splurge themselves in the feeling of romanticism. The Hotels in Lakshwadeep situated near the calm beaches offer the revelers with an option to make your entire wedding ceremony a private affair. So if you are still brooding over the nexus of unnecessary alternatives just take a deep breathe and think about holding a wedding; nearby the serene beaches of Lakshwadeep.

Dhanolti: Located in Uttrakhand, this destination gives you a new flight of ecstasy and ebullience. Dotted with the spell binding beauty, Oak and Deodar trees, the pandal set amidst the dainty landscapes would surely encrust imbibing impressions on your senses. Priests chanting the mantras and you with a benign smile on your face looking at your spouse are surely a divine feeling in every sense. If you really want to splurge yourself in this divine feeling, then it is recommended to make an advance booking in the Hotels in Dhanolti. Moreover, hiring a wedding planner, can obviously give a new facelift to your wedding and icing on the cake, Dhanolti will become the most cherish able part of memories.

Ranthambore: From the times immemorial Dhanolti has witnessed the swaggering wedding of the comedian Russell Brand and American pop singer kate perry. Getting your knot tied in the enveloped wilderness looks like a dream come true. Ranthambore is place opulent of tigers, migratory birds and extinct creatures. Located 130 km from Jaipur, there are immense number of Hotels in Ranthambore which would bestow you with the strong feeling of indulgence with someone really special and charming to you. The weeding enthusiasts can explore the spectacular view of its still untamed beauty. While you tie yourself in the soulful knot, the camaraderie with nature will shower flowers on you and simply making your marriage an invincible and successful instance.

Amritsar—the pool of nectar

2011-01-05T19:32:00.004+05:30

Amritsar in Punjab, Northern India, is the holy city hallowed by the presence of Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) and the shimmering pool of pond which bestows this temple a unique identity. Although, there is already a nine storied gurudwara of Baba Atal that is further accentuated by the burnished minarets. Followed by the trail of history, the young enthusiasts would find it interesting to know that the golden temple carries the blend of all cultures which can be witnessed through the carvings engraved on the wall. To ascent more deep into the spiritual and cultural heritage of the region, it’s vital to stroll in the history and every jaunt detail which could definitely compel you to make a visit.

Dating back to the era, the most sacred of Sikh Shrines, Golden Temple stands at a spot believed to have been visited by the Guru Nanak, the first spiritual master of Sikhs, in 1502. The name Harmandar sahib means the temple of god and it was derived from ‘Gurbani’ by the third sikh Guru Amardas. Later following his instructions his son in law and the fourth Guru Ramdas commenced settling in Amritsar. With the 500 acres of land donated by Emperor Akbar, the construction of the temple commenced and its foundation stone was laid by the sufi Saint Mian Mir of Lahore. In the year 1604, Guru Arjun Dev completed Guru Granth Sahib which till date is known and worshiped as the last guru of Sikhs. With the sudden death of Emperor Akbar, Jahangir felt threatened by the spiraling popularity of the gurus. He took Guru Arjun Dev to Lahore, where he slashed his head with the sword. Soon after this incident, the son of Arjun Dev, Hargobind Singh acquired the seat and it was during this period only when Sikhism got its military character. Akal Takht was another place in the sanctum where all the policies and strategies to counter the Afghan attacks were discussed. Since 17th century, the sikhs of the region faced seamless outrage and invasions by Afghan rulers but in the year 1802, Maharaja Ranjit singh took back the control and gave his whole hearted contribution to refurbish Harmandir Sahib. He was one who titled it by the name "Golden Temple".

The architecture of the Golden Temple is based on the principles of Hinduism, Islam and Sikhism. While at the same time sikhism by keeping its individuality embrace the religious aspects of both the cultures. The Harmandir has four entrances, emphasizing on the fact that gates of god are always opened for every human being. The roof of the temple is embellished with the golden dome and the marble work reminiscent to the Shades of Taj Mahal. Clambering the upper passages of the stairs, there is another floor which was used by the spiritual masters for doing meditation. Also known as "Sheesh Mahal", this floor is bounded by the mirrored walls engraved with the verses of Guru Granth Sahib. On the second floor are the rare paintings of the sikh gurus which can take you back in times immemorial when history gets enlivened. Besides visiting the golden temple, the travelers can also make a visit to other destinations like Jallianwala Bagh, Wagah Border, the shopping havens Hall Bazaar and Katra Jaimal Singh road respectively. For covering the regions with in the precincts of the town, the travelers can board a rickshaw which charges 5 to 15 rupees. While at the same time, there is also a provision of shared autos which can take you to any corner of the city with in the minimal price range. The travelers who want to explore the beautiful past of city can make a visit to Central Sikh Museum whose timings are between 7:00AM to 7:00 PM in summer and 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM in winter. The beauty of temple is accentuated by the Sarovar where the pilgrims take a holy dip and get themselves relinquished from all the travails. At 5:00 AM in summers and 4:00 AM in winters the holy book Guru Granth Sahib is brought from the Akal Takht. The important days are marked by the ‘Akhand Path’ which is being read for 48 hours from beginning to end. Tobacco, narcotics or other intoxicants are not allowed inside the sanctum. Photography is allowed only from the parikrama before that you have to follow the stringent rules set by the authorities.

The other holy sanctums include Gurudwara Baba Atal Rai, Gurudwara Mai Kaulan, Guru ke Mahal and Gurudwara Ramsar Sahib which can be visited by the pilgrims who aspire to fulfill their wishes. The leisure travelers as well as pilgrims can plan their entire stay at Hotels in Amritsar. There is good range of budget as well as luxury hotels in Amritsar which can surely be booked in advance. These hotels in Amritsar include M K International Hotel, Suncity Towers Hotel and Hotel CJ International. The Hotels in India carrying the plethora of world class qualities come up with the best deals which can be availed by the travelers by any time of the season. There are direct flights from Amritsar’s Raja Sansi Airport which shares a good connectivity with Delhi. The Railway routes are quiet feasible and are well connected to Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkota. The road journey from Delhi takes around 4 hours. The visitors can board a bus from Red fort Delhi whose services can be availed according to the budget. If you are reaching this destination during the day don’t forget to savor the tastes of the relishing cuisines as they are made in the grinded spices and blend of various vegetables all together combined to provide you with flavors delectable and more conjuring in every sense. The Choley-Kulchey, Dal Makhani and shahi Paneer form the real Punjabi platter which can be enjoyed at the dhabas and restaurants that too at reasonable price tags.

Fittingly, Amritsar is the place which is assured to take the travelers to the days when people in India lived the simpler lives. Similar impressions of life can still be traced in this holy town where the mornings of a common man starts with the verses of Guru Granth Sahib. Without any hassles, or hurry, a visit to this sanctum is an excellent chance when you can laze around and explore sanctity in the similar way as apprised by many spiritual gurus in the earlier centuries.

Arunachal Pradesh—Land of Rising Sun

2010-12-21T20:43:00.003+05:30

Arunachal Pradesh nestled in Eastern India shares its borders with Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet and China. Garlanded with the perennial chain of snow veiled mountains and rivers, beauty of Arunchal Pradesh is still concealed from the under the perplex notions of anonymity.

At first glance you will be truthfully be knocked by the unbridled passages and unscathed beauty of the entire region. This is what Arunachal Pradesh is all about, the unsullied hills, pristine monasteries, seamlessly flowing waves of the winds and the elusive movements of red panda. While on a visit to Itanagar, you must not miss a chance to explore the wilderness of the Tawang. It has traditionally been only remembered at the times of war between India and China. Following the trail of age old route connections, you while traveling by taxi or gypsies can most probably enjoy the whole ride passing through the parlous hairpin bends and detours streamlined by zig zag roads. From Tezpur to Sari Duar which is 347 km, the road from sari Duar will enter to erstwhile Ahom kingdom from where you can mark your presence into the elephant country—Nameri Wildlife Reserve. If you really love clicking some of the best pictures of burgeoning wild life, then of course you may feel like patting your back for the decision which always compelled you to make a visit to the world still unseen and unspoiled. Walking out of the whimsical world, once you are out of the forest, the road trails to Bharali River which is in fact due to sudden modernization is still striving for its existence. Covering the distance of 200 km, your real climb will start from Bomdila, you will reach at the height of 13,828 which will further take you to a temple, three small lakes and army war memorial leading to Bum La at Chinese border. Perched on a vast slope is the 16th century constructed Tawang Monastery which was once the strong hold of Gelupa Sect and has also been the socio religious focal point of the area for the past 400 year. The other attractions include the sanctums of Urgeling, Sange Ryabelling, Khinme Monastery and the Singshur Nunnery. For excursion purpose, you can make a visit to Bomdila(187 km from Tawang), which further moves to Lower Gompa, Gaden Rabgyeling Monastery, Upper Gompa, T Gompa, Padmasambhava, Sangeshwar lakes-renamed Madhuri Lake after the dance sequence of the film ‘Koyla’.

Further, the road to North East doesn’t end here as if you are a hard core wild life explorer, then of course your soul would be minted in the state of complete trance. Then pale reddish stinted sky line would set you to shout in extreme ecstasy. Perched a 5,839 ft above the sea level lies a small town named Ziro, ensconced in the heart of Lower Subansiri District. While taking a stroll in the forest, you can visit to district museum established in 1956, this museum hosts a collection of artifacts, turquoise coral jewelry and endogenously crafted works of the tribal populace. At same time the vacationers while on safari can easily figure out the Mithun, the bovine family member of cross breaded species of cow and buffalo. Keeping the honor of cultural heritage alive, the travelers can make a radically squint into the deeper nut shells of the art and craft of this small town by marking their presence at Government Handicrafts Museum. The local tribe generally known as ‘Apa Tanis’ believe in deities—Donyi Polo, Sun and moon god who is the witness of truth. During the harvest time the local denizens of the region celebrate the Moko Festival during the commencement of the agricultural cycle. Relatively, during this time only the Bamboo sporting festival is enjoyed with great pomp- and show. It is known as ‘Bobo’ in which the locales perform simple acrobatics. The Dree festival marks the end of the plantation cycle. Other than these destinations the travelers can unwind their tired senses at Talley Wild Life Sanctuary, Tarin fish farm and Doporijo.

Destinations like Khonsa and Tezu, inhabits similar kind of natural faculties where you can visit to Lohit District, Chowkham, walong—army memorial, the dense forests of Namiti can’t be skipped from the itinerary. At the same time if your are too apprehensive about accommodation then it is completely worth less to embroil yourself, because there are immense number of luxury as well as budget Hotels in Arunachal Pradesh which offer the travelers with an unmatched stay experience. The Hotels in India at the same time following the trend of serving unbeatable hospitality greet the travelers with excellent package deals which could genuinely suit their pockets very well. The Hotel Bomdila--Tawang, Hotel Alpine--Tawang, Hotel Shangrila--Tawang, Hotel Blue Pine-at Ziro town, Circuit house—Khonsa are some of the hotels professed with the brilliant state of facilities, thus assuring the aspiring travelers to make their entire holiday simply the best.

Apart from accommodations, the travelers who sensitively think that if they have explored every staunch aspect of India, then they should come out of their prejudiced perceptions because Arunachal Pradesh is the destination still waiting for an affable nod. The mini Switzerland of India, wants you to flaunt its mesmerizing beauty. Come and step forward……to the land still unexplored.

Beaches of Ratnagiri

2010-12-07T18:51:00.001+05:30

“The Sky looms red during evenings; oceanic waves splurge on the sea shores creating a symphony of unheard music and thus every moment fades away with such quirkiness, that you won’t even remember when the day descended into a dark night”.

Nestled on the Konkan Coast of Maharashtra, Western India, the port of Ratnagiri is more than halfway to Goa. Ratnagiri is the miniature model of 19th century Mumbai. The gently rolling hills, the gloomy palm trees and the shimmering white sand on the beaches are genuinely the eye stealing views for which every discerning traveler craves for.

The first noticeable thing about Ratnagiri is that every way you look; your gaze will stop at a mango tree. If you are here in early summer, you will find the trees hanging with extreme respite, unable to bear the weight of the ‘hapus’. Most of the great tourist magnets lie near the Thibaw Point. It’s not really difficult to figure out all the destinations with the naked eyes, as there are no obstructions while scanning the picturesque over all view of the beckoning landscapes. Entrenched in complete aloofness, the travelers while on a way can also make a visit to Thibaw’s Palace which shares a strong Burmese connection, veering back to the year 1885. This palace is slightly odd in its structure and it doesn’t looks affable to Indian environs. The story connected to this palace says that the king of Burma was sent to spend his last years in true exile, gazing at the sea. Apart from all, followed by the trail of beaches, if you really love to stroll on the glitzy sand strewn sea shores in sheer aloofness, then you can of course praise your decision for being here. Closest to town is ‘Pandre Samudra’—a long stretch of sand whose name means ‘white sea’. In comparison to the above stated beach, Mandavi beach bears the shades of black sand and its bit filthy. For some reasons this beach is famous and it is known as the ‘Gateway to Ratnagiri’. At Mandavi Beach you can most probably satiate your tongues with the spicy and peppy flavors of ‘Chaat’ and ‘Soft Drinks around’. For better options, you can hop to Bhatye beach which starts soon after ‘Bhatye Bridge’. It’s a 15 minutes drive from the city. Ganeshghule being 20 KMS from Ratnagiri is the third alternative and is considered the most beautiful beach by the locals. The sand here is almost different and it is possible to spend a few hours in complete loneliness. To get here, take the Pawas Coastal Higfhway after Bhatye.

Besides this, you also have an option to drive up to Ratnadurg Fort and Bhagwati Temple overlooking the seamless horizons of the ‘Blue Sea’. The Lokmanya Tilak’s birth place now turned into bustling museum is ensconced with murals and photographs of this walrus mustachioed freedom fighter. His home is a cherished example of old Konkani architecture which could definitely leave you spell bounded for a few seconds. Moving around Ratnagiri, the travelers will fall in adrenaline rush to visit Ganpatitpule which is 390 Kilometers to South of Mumbai and 45 KMS from Ratnagiri would lead you at the beach down the winding road and strolling right, you will reach Swayambhu Ganpati Temple. Along the temple side there is a Ganpatipule Beach which remains crowded by heavy rush of locals and tourists respectively. Moreover, you can also enjoy a backwater cruise at Sangamaeshwar-Jaigad canal—perched 50 KMS from Ganpatipule respectively. There is also a Chopper service from Mumbai at 8: 00AM and from there you can witness the birds’ eye view of many other beaches like Alibaug, Nandgaon, Muhud, Harnai and Guhagar before landing into Ganapatipule.

After getting the deep insight of Ratnagiri and Ganpatipule, the main question that must be quelling your senses must be about a reach ability option and accommodation. You can reach Ratnagiri by boarding train from Mumbai; Konkan Kanya Express, whose departure time from Mumbai is 10:50 PM and later, would reach Ratnagiri by 5:41AM. From Ratnagiri, the departure time is 10:20 PM. If you are going from road then you can hire taxi or bus which will take you from NH-17all the way to Hathkhamba junction via Pen, Mahad and Chiplun. From Hathkhamba, Ratnagiri is just 13 Kms on SH204, which also connects Ratnagiri to Kolhapur. Mangaon is the main mile stone mark which is halfway from Ratnagiri. Ordinary and Semi Deluxe ST buses leave from opposite Mumbai Central, Borivili and Parel bus stations. Now the most vital part is accommodation; which here by affirms the fact to provide the aspiring travelers with the excellent stay options at Hotels in Ratnagiri. There are good numbers of budget Hotels in Ganapatipule which provides the travelers with an accommodation, carrying a reasonable price tag. Fittingly, there are good numbers of premium hotels in Ratnagiri which are fortified with perfect state of hospitality. The Kohinoor Samudra Resort, Hotel Landmark, Hotel Shree Vihar are some of the hotels in Ratnagiri which can be booked in advance by the travelers, seeking for a peaceful sojourn. The air/non air conditioned rooms, beckoning interiors, caring staff, wifi connectivity, cable Tv, finest dine meals are some of faculties which could definitely be a cliché for the people to chose the best hotels in Ratnagiri for holidaying respectively. The Hotels in India covering all the facets of excellent hospitality standards can be inviting for every one seeking for complete comfort and rejuvenation.

Knowingly Ratnagiri can only be the place about which the revelers can think of planning a peaceful holiday, all together binding to make it a part of souvenir; that can always be cherished by you, especially when you spent some of the most cozy moments of life with some one really special.

Rameshwaram: Where beauty resides in every corner

2010-11-30T20:25:00.004+05:30

“The sea waves surging and wading through Ramanathaswamy Temple could set you bemused for a second. The entire beauty of this destination is simply inexplicable”

Nestled in Tamil Nadu, South India, Rameswaram is a conch shell shaped island, where the metaphor of beauty seems to fit its character. Knowingly famous for the grandiose-centuries old Rameshwaram Temple, this destination is thronged by the crowd of passionate devotees who want to enjoy the spiritual bliss of coming in contact with the great Lingam.

Traversing back to days when mythology gets enlivened by a bloodshed and stifle between the Lord Rama and demon Ravana. In an effort to free goddess Sita from the shackles of this evil, Lord Rama along with his brother Lord Lakshman(Laxman) and disciple Lord Hanumaan traveled a long way to Rameswaram. During their stay, Hanumaan brought the 'Shiva Lingam' from Himalaya to perform religious ablutions and pray for their victory. Since that day, the Shiva Lingam remained ensconced at the sea shores, looming as the great center of pilgrimage for many devotees. Moving inside the premises of the temple, the 16 ft and 10ft wide Nandi could be witnessed guarding the main gates of the temple. Few steps ahead are the granite marbled stairs which are over looked by two heavily built ‘dwar palakas’. The insidious structure of temple is so humongous, that the first time visitors would be left spell bounded for a few seconds. Followed by the two lingams, the outer area of the temple consists of 'Vishwa Lingam' placed by Lord Hanumaan and the left side of the temple premises is donned with the shrine of goddess Parvatavardhini. While at the same time, the devotees can’t miss the religious ceremony performed at ‘Sethu Madhava’ shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Then there is another idol of Natraja which is scrupulously contoured and streamlined with rudraksha seeds. A visit to this most sacred sanctum is considered complete if holy water of Ganga jal from kashi is brought for ‘Abhishekam—(holy ceremony in which the idol of lord is given scared bath along with the chant of vedic mantras).

Stepping ahead with the nexus of holy bath at 22 temple tirthams, the devotees at the Ramanathaswamy temple could further plan to move towards Dahnushkodi where Lord Rama relinquished himself from the sin of killing Ravana. This temple is dedicated to LordRama, Sita, Lakshmana and the great idol of Hanuman is the only structure left since marred by the cyclone in the year 1964. Generally known as the ‘Kothandaramswamy Temple’, it can be easily reached by taxi or bus, which certainly takes around 1 hour to reach. Eventually, while on a tour to Rameshwaram, the devotees could also make a visit to other local shrines including Rama Tirtham, Agni Tirtham, Laskhmana Tirtham, Jatayu Tirtham(where the king of birds lost his life while trying to save Sita from Ravana. The temple of Hanuman will raise your heckles and would intrigue you to carry some of the sea floating rocks used at the time of building the bridge—‘Ram Setu’.

After a religious spree, the devotees if in a mood to take siesta break can plan a short excursion in a fishing boat. They can stroll up to the ‘home of missile man of India’--APJ Abdul Kalam, where you might grab an opportunity to involve in a friendly chat with his brother. From the busy schedule, you can walk way to the busy ‘Indira Gandhi Road Bridge’ that connects Rameshwaram to the mainland. Complying to an extreme exhilaration, the leisure travelers can’t miss the natural retreat offered by the lush green littoral patch of landscapes and the breeze of cool air flowing from the backwaters, could surely compel you to take dip in the cool waters. A glass bottomed boat service can be boarded from the Indira Gandhi Road Bridge which charges around 100 rupees per head. There is also a morning service from Mandapam to the Kurusudai Islands, a marine biosphere which seek permission of wild life warden to make a visit. Apart from all, by an end of the day, you can fold your entire trip at Uthikosamnagai Shiva Temple (open 4.30 -12.30 pm, 3.45-8.30pm) followed by Thriupullani, Sethukarai, Devipattinam and Vishnu Temple respectively.

The devotees as well leisure travelers can board the direct buses from Madurai which runs with in the frequency of 5 to 10 minutes exclusively. If the travelers are plying by air, then Madurai airport can be the best option, which takes approximately 3 ½ hours to reach the final destination. Rameshwaram is well connected by rail, Sethu express and Rameswaram express are the two trains which depart from Chennai and arrive at Tambaram Junction in Chennai). Besides this, the Hotels in Rameswaram provide the visitors with the best spate of options where they can plan a peaceful sojourn exclusively. Hotel Royal Park, Hotel Venkatesh, Hotel Maharaja, Hotel Chola are some of the accommodations which could make the entire stay of the visitors simply the most memorable experience. Following the trail the Hotels in India, bestows the revelers with the similar series of accommodation options, good enough to make an excellent stay.

So if you are highly inspired by this blog and can’t stop your senses from traveling to this mesmerizing place, then this it is recommendable to pack your bags and visit this spiritual sanctum, to go back in the time frozen when mythology comes alive in front of your eyes.

Jagannath Temple—Puri, The Lord of Universe

2010-11-24T20:10:00.001+05:30

Perched on the Eastern Coast of Orrisa, a bear shaped littoral strip of land overlooking the Bay of Bengal, with fertile alluvial plains to the North East India, embellishes a Jagannath Temple inviting infinite number of vacationers seeking blessings of the lord. Various mythological stories in connection with Puri bounds to make it the most visited pilgrim’s destination in India.

Puri was once a thickly wooded hill region, home to the Sabras, a pre-Aryan and pre Dravidian tribe. Originally Jagannath was secretly worshipped as Nila Madhava by a Sabara Chief. One day the great devotee of Lord Vishnu wished to see the Lord in the most perfect form. The devotee was told in the dream that the deity could be seen in Utkala, now known as Orrissa. Vidyapati, the brother of king’s royal priest was deputed to find Nila Madhava, It was an image of extra ordinary luster believed to be the family deity of Visvavasu, a Sabara Chief. Visvavasu refused to reveal the secret place of worship and stayed on the condition to marry his daughter, Lalita. Unable to refuse his daughter, the Sabara chief took his son in law blind folded to the secret pl ace. Somehow, in order to get the route traced through which he traveled, he managed to drop the mustard seeds which sprouted in the dwelling of Nila Madhav. When Vidyapati narrated his experiences in front of the king, he got impressed and when he personally visited that place, the lord was found disappeared from the place of pilgrimage. Later at night, when king Indradyumna was sleeping, Lord Nila Madhvan appeared in his dream. He commanded him to gather the log of woods that could be set floating on the waves. A mysterious old man appeared in front of the king and offered to carve the image of lord on those logs, on the condition that no one will open the closed room while he will be working. But 14 days after the work was commenced, the wife of Indradyumna got impatient and opened the door. Eventually, it was no one else but the god of architect—Biswa Karma who was making the three idols, left the work half way. Leaving the idols incomplete, all the three idols are worshipped in the same way as they were seen in the past centuries. The images in the Jagannath Temple are all weather sculptures, made from mangosa or neem wood, which explains the unusual stocky depiction of the deities. After an interval of many years, there is Nabakalebara Ceremony (renovation ceremony) during which the wooden figures of all three gods are made afresh from neem log. The last renovation was performed in 1991’ others took place in 1863, 1893, 1931, 1950 and 1977. Since, the images look unfinished; therefore it would evoke the feelings of the common people. So to avoid this situation, the Krishna idol was designated Jagat-natha, a magical word that evokes devotion.

Following the trail till today, Jagnanath Temple in Orrissa has awesome grandeur, the shrine to Jagannath stands on the elevation point of 65m, dominating the landscape for miles around. The temple in surrounded by two enclosures, the first 20ft high, and measures 652 ft by 630 ft. In front of the main humongous gate there is an 11m high monolithic pillar which was once the part of Konark Temple and was brought here by the priest in the 18th century AD. Known as the Aruna Stambh, this pillar is made of granite stone which forms the base of Garuda, Lord Vishnu’s Carrier. In the vicinity there is a Singha Dwar, to lions guarding the gates of the temple, imbibes an impression of great fretwork existing during the ancient times. Connecting the outer enclosure to the inner enclosures is the Baisi Pahach, a sacred flight of 22 steps only. Parents bring their children here and get them roll over the stairs slowly in the expectation of spiritual bliss. At the 16 pillared Mukti mandap, located in front gate of the Southern Gate of the temple, priests of Puri 24 Sasanas hold theological discussions. At the end of the steps, turn left to the Ganesha temple, situated on the foot is the Rohini Kund which adhere an interesting story. The legend depicts that a crow, great devotee of lord Jagannath once fell into the water and the pilgrims noticed that she suddenly had four feet instead of two. Her devotion was acknowledged and she was called by the name Kaka Bhusundi; the Rohini kund is also known by this name. There are around 30 shrines around the main temple. By sparing some time out of their tight schedule, the devotees can also visit the three temples of Ganesha, Vimala and Lakshmi. The Tantric shrine of Goddess Vimala is located on the South Western corner of the inner compound. As the time of offering rituals or bhog is not fixed, the fortunate devotees would really feel blessed to see every activity happening in front of their eyes. In the Garbha Griha, seated upon the Ratna Simhasan is a 4 foot high throne, are the enchanting images of Lord Jagannath, his sister Subhadra and brother Balabhadra, and the goddesses Lakshmi and Saraswati. Swarg Dwar is another stretch to the south of the temple, where a dip in the scared waters could relinquish the devotees from all kinds of sins and opens the gate to heaven. Between the months of June to July, nearly a million devotees gather to participate in the Jagnnath Rath Yatra, one of the grandest festivals in the world. Three separate Chariots are built for Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra. Jagannaths car is the largest with 16 wheels, followed by the his brother with 14 and sister Subhadra with 12 wheeled cars are pulled by the followers which is thus a golden opportunity for them, to see, touch, come closer to the lords--to feel the strong spiritual fervor respectively. The chariots remain at the Gundicha temple for seven days. The best place to see the chariots is from Raghunandan library in front of the temple or maths around the temple: they make seating arrangements in the balconies.

The nearest railway station to the temple is located 2KMS, at one of the arterial bisecting the city solely. The best time to visit the temple is between 5:30 AM to 10:00 AM. The devotees are not allowed to enter inside the premises when bhog is offered to the lords. The non-hindus are not allowed inside the temple. They can watch every religious ablutions happening through a balcony. Besides this, the beach side at Puri is sublime and the leisure travelers can equally enjoy a splash in the balmy waters during a stay at Hotels in Puri. Blessed with an excellent spate of services, the vacationers as well as devotees have an option to choose the best budget as well as premium hotels in Puri, suiting their preferences and pockets very well. Fittingly, the Hotels in India bestow the visitors with similar type of comforts expected by them. Toshali Sands Hotel, Mayfair Beach Resort, Coco Palms, BNR Heritage Hotel, Puri Hotel are some of the options which can most probably be availed or booked in advance by the aspiring pilgrims through an online booking exclusively.

While on a religious trip to the Jagannath temple, you can also savor the aroma of rice, spinach dish, kaduas, payas served in palm leaves. After filling the appetite with some appetizing delicacies, you can stroll at Ananda bazaar, where you can involve yourself in friendly discussion with the folks around sharing some cozy and quaint moments of life with them. As you will talk, you will certainly feel like getting mixed and become a part of the natural ambiance consisting of villagers and the way life moves in a straight direction.

A Walk Through The Emerald Beaches of Goa

2010-11-18T18:33:00.010+05:30

"The decomposed and shriveling body of St.Francis Xavier, placed in a glass mounted casket is said to be known as savior and guard of Goa. His soul is believed to be the main protector shielding the entire region from all forms of disasters and unfortunate incidents. According to the much touted belief, the locales say that, this hinter land will capsize under bask of ocean if the body of saint will shrink further."

Lined by the swaying palms trees, sheen of the glazing sand and the aroma of the sea food would definitely give you a wake call, that yes you are in Goa. Nestled in the South Western India, Goa is cloistered with the chastened trails of old Portuguese styled mansions, thousands of year old churches, and the unsullied passages would bound to catch the glimpse of every traveler.

The beauty of Goa especially the northern region gives a motif to the vacationers to mellow out and take a siesta break by lading themselves free at the beach side. The warmth of the sun, entering into the body would bestow your senses with the unique feeling of soulful elation. It’s just 554 KM drive from Mumbai that will take the travelers to the an imperious Tiracol fort on the northern bank of the Arondem River—before you make your way down to Pernem’s Gold Coast or to the interior. It’s just a short kilometer drive from Redi, the last known on the Maharashtrian Konkan. Fittingly, Maharashtra ends at sea fort, sacred temple and am glorious secluded beach. True to nature, Goa goes one better. It welcomes travelers with the fort of its own harmonizing with the tranquil sea shores. The Triacol Fort speaks about the legacy of revolutionaries who unfurled the India flag, relinquishing this territory from the shackles of Portuguese rule. Near the fort, regular gushing of the sea waves at Querim Beach would greet the travelers with the mesmerizing window view. The beach is remote and is donned with an element of raw beauty still waiting for a cosmetic dressing. With minimal number of food stalls, the travel savvy’s have an option to satiate their parched throats with the refreshing coconut water. While at the same time, every staunch activity of the bird hoping on branches of mangrove tree can be closely noticed by an every wild life enthusiast. Further moving ahead, the trail of these calm beaches doesn’t ends here. About 12 Kms away from the Querim Beach there are Kalacha and Arambol Beach which are not as vivacious as the mentioned ones, but with a suffusion of simplistic quietude they are an incomparable travelers point to hang out. It uniquely boasts a fresh water lagoon right in the vicinity. This fresh water lagoon, shares a cozy and quaint space with the foreigners who after taking a bath in the saline water, feels like scouring the sting of saline water. In a stance to discover the compose and equipoise environs of the rural areas, the travelers vacationers can take a stroll through Arambol Village, a 10 minute walk up from the beach, following the road from Arambol Pizzeria that’s lined with beer bars, fish shacks and restaurants.

In the shade of Cashew trees, just South of the Arambol Beach are the unsullied sands of Mandrem, lined with canoes. The Tiny twin beaches of Asvem, Junas and Madrem, offers the vacationers with a sense rejuvenating trek over sands and cliff. Taking a walk on this golden stretch, the enthusiasts have an option to reach Turtle beach, also known as the turtle sanctuary. Clubbed between Morjim and Chopdem, it was once the sporting haven for surfers. Measuring the perennial lengths and breadths of the beaches, the travel enthusiasts by hiring a bus or taxi can explore the main core areas of Panjim. Nestled a few kilometers from the Western Water front, this ‘Rome of East’ shares close ascents with beaches of Europe. In the family of ‘Goan Beaches’, Campal, Miramar and Dona Paula endows Goa a unique character. The Goa’s most famous beaches lie along the coast of Bardez taluk, north of Panji. Drive across the Nehru Bridge on the Mondovi River and you will head straight to Alto de Porvorim for the Calangute-Vagator stretch. Or turn left and drive down towards Betim to reach the Gold Coast via beautiful drive along the Mondovi, past the awe inspiring Reis Magos Fort, it entirely depends upon you, which route you will take. Also hidden around the estuary there are good numbers of unexplored beaches which includes Coco beach, Candolim Beach and Calangute Beach exclusively. The Shimmering sea in extreme west, forays a trail to Arjuna Beach with Laxmi Narayan Temple marking it as the most visited center. Going back in the era when Goa saw the Portugeese invasion and various missionaries from west were indulged in spreading Christianity all over India. Amongst the crowd of those missionaries, Saint Francis Xavier was the one who conjured a great impact in the history of India. After his death, his body was preserved in the form of one of the supernatural antiques at Saint Francis Xavier Church. It is assumed that with the shriveling dead body of Saint Xavier, the Goa would drown in the sea. This Church been certified as the magical dome by the Pope of Rome. Basilica de Bom Jesu, Church of our Lady of the Mountand, Church of Saint John of God are some of the other religious sanctums in Goa sharing a close knack with the structures built in Europe.

The vacationers could visit Goa by boarding a train like Rajdhani Express and Konkan Kanya express, which could most surely be booked in advance by the vacationers in order to avoid any chaos later. From Delhi the Rajdhani express runs at 11:00 AM in the morning and Konkan Kanya Express runs at 6:00 PM from Margaon , followed by its arrival at 4:58PM to Thane and 5:55AM in Mumbai respectively. The travelers who are taking route by bus or car can come all the way straight from NH 17 via Chiplun and Sawantvadi. The luxury coaches and sleepers leave from Mumbai gym and opposite Bandra Talao for Goa in the afternoon. The journey of 9 to 12 hours ends at Margao from where you can take the auto or taxi to reach to the main city. There are immense numbers of Hotels in Goa which offer the travelers with the best spate of services along with the appetizing food. While on a stay at Hotels in Goa, the travelers can relish their taste buds with the sea food and Anglo Indian cuisines. Blessed with well furnished floors, air/non air conditioned rooms, the Goa Hotels sharing the similar faculties with other Hotels in India, genuinely commodious enough to cater to every mindset with a great ease. Victorian Heritage Hotel near beach, Kerkar Retreat in Calungute, Angels Holiday Resort at river side can genuinely be accommodating for all the aspiring visitors, looking for a complete comfort and rejuvenation. There are many luxurious as well budget hotels in Goa which could make the entire stay of the vacationers simply an unforgettable experience. You can also stay at Villages in Canagunim where villagers rent out rooms, and private beach at this sojourn provides the vacationers with a fancy spree, which on mixing with the fenni leads to unwinding the senses from boredom or depression.

The homely atmosphere amidst uncharted beauty is the USP of Goa. If you are planning to explore the overwhelming state of this exciting yet unique picturesque land, then without even missing a single heart beat, it is advisable to pack your bags and immerse your self in the palpable faculties of the region. Whether you are a newly married couple or a family person or a lonely bohemian, Goa is the destination which will most obviously pull you to feel the real percussion of sea tides, calling you to unveil the mysticism still unknown to you.

Trekking from Karjat to Matheran

2010-11-09T19:02:00.003+05:30

The thought of trekking through the dusty lanes of Karjat to Matheran may sound fascinating to the senses and may bound to become the first thought about which the travelers have always imagined about. Karjat region is nestled on the South-East of Mumbai, on the banks of Ulhas River, in Raigad district, Western India. With eight to ten different routes emanating, the trekking from Karjat to Matheran could be an ultimate experience.

Following the trail of trek records, the dense forest cover, teeming bird life, long walks, flora and fauna can pull the travelers to mellow out in the cusp of pristine nature. Besides this, the aspiring travelers who want to make an entourage from Kajrat-Ambedwadi Village-Matheran can most probably take a route from Karjat Chowk Road. While traversing through the lush green thickets of the region, you would actually feel yourself as the luckiest ones to witness the rich class of flora and fauna blossoming in front of the eyes. While at the same time, a 2KM stroll from the Vaverle Village along a tarred road, you will reach to Bhorgaon Village. If you rather can’t walk on the broken road, then you have a choice to follow the trail by an auto rickshaw. But if you want to explore the burgeoning wilderness of this hinter land, then of course you have an option to take a route from a wide stream to get to Bhorgaon. After crossing the every gentle spur, you will reach to a turning point of North West from you can visit to Ambewadi Village. The swaying trees, funnel shaped hills, and the simplicity infused in the dynamic vistas would compel the audacious enthusiasts to try something adventurous. If the travelers have the provision of flexible tents, then they can of course think of planning a camping option here exclusively. To unwind the tired senses, and satiate the parched throats, the travelers have an option to travel to One Tree Hill from where they can purchase a cold drink in Matheran. Besides this, the jungles in the region have a bountiful of 350 species of scorpions which at times with sudden provocation can turn fatal. So the adventure sneakers are advised that they should take the personal succor of a guide, to venture out in those horribly wild spaces.

Finally after reaching Matheran, there is trek which heads into a stretch of thick forest, which will greet you with the welcome respite of sun. The Shivaji Steps will be visible to you; believed to be a legendry route from where this great king rode 500 m to the top up a stream bed that remains dry except the monsoons. The most enjoyable but long route is from Mumbai, from where the travelers can board a Karjat bound local train from Mumbai and get down at Vangani Station. From there, they can hike to Vaghachi Wadi, cross the Nakhind-Cahnderi College and walk to Panvel Lake. From that lake there are two routes to Matheran. The first via Porcupine Point, also called Milk Trail. The other route is less uses and climbs a spur running due east. This first brings the travelers up to Hashachi Patti, a tribal hamlet, and then into Matheran via Malang Point. It is also possible that travelers can start a 4-5 days trek from Lonavala which links to Rajmachi Bhairi Caves, Dhak Fort, Karjat and finally Matheran. Similarly, the travelers with the end of the entire ordeal can start to return at the point from where they started. With the distance looming up to 10-11 KMS, the vacationers would approximately take 4-5 hours to reach back to Matheran-Bhorgaon-Karjat. The travelers can head towards Dasturi Naka and then could walk down along the road (11KM) to Neral station, from where they can board the Mumbai bound local train.

Following the track of highly defined yet impressive itinerary, the vacationers if planning to stay at Hotels in Karjat, can choose to stay Dr Modis Health Resort exclusively. Emblazoned with verdant forests and secluded places, this Hotel sprawling over a large area can be the best accommodation for all the vacationers as well as honeymoon couples seeking for a comfortable stay. Carrying the baton of similar luxury, the travelers who want to enjoy their precious moments of their life with family or friends or some one special, then they can choose to plan a stay at Hotels in Matheran exclusively. With the presence of budget and luxurious hotels, it entirely depends upon the verdict of vacationers, that which one they like to opt for. Bombay View Hotel, Mtdc Resort Matheran, Regal Hotel are some of the hotels in Matheran, which would definitely suit to the tastes of every mind set with a great ease. The Hotels in India carving a special niche in the hearts of travel enthusiasts can rejuvenate the senses of travelers to high levels of ecstasies. From highly upgraded spas to hospitality standards, Hotels in India caters to every discerning mindset. Whether it is talked about Matheran Hotels or Hotels in Karjat, all of them have some unique element professed in them.

Coming back from the journey of treacherous terrains and thick jungles, the vacationers may feel like imagining themselves in those memories again. They would again like to hop in the detours, funnel shaped mountains, mythical believes of the locales, and the stories of simplicity and kindness. The symphony of miraculous tones of nature and enriching flora-fauna can genuinely create an eternal infatuation which would compel the bohemians to live those beautiful moments of life creating a quick notion of furor in them.

Harihareshwar—Explore The Tranquil Sea Shores

2010-11-01T20:09:00.007+05:30

Harihareshwar sandwiched amidst the pristine environs in the state of Maharashtra, Western India, is a pilgrimage as well as an ideal beach resort for the vacationers seeking for a complete rejuvenation. Like many other Konkani Towns, this town is still concealed under bask in anonymity. Due this reason, the travel savvy are still unaware about the masqueraded beauty of this mesmerizing destination. The temples, beaches, and the simplicity of Harihareshwar is unique in every aspect and the aspiring travelers can most surely avail the golden opportunity to unwind their senses in the presence of this euphoric ambiance.

The travelers have not yet explored the placid beaches of the region. This town slowly yawns in the crimson light of sunlight and in the afternoon, it recedes into a siesta. Everything is shuttered down and that’s the only time when you can feast your eyes with the glaze of natural sea beach beauty. When you will hop towards the Harihareshwar Beach which is eventually split in two parts; North and South by the Kalbhairav Temple complex, you will definitely feel that sand here is not white but it’s clean and aloof from the rest of the beaches mushroomed in different part of India. The Southern stretch is completely secluded and the fusion of spiritual element, gives a way to the bit of material indulgence. Moving some steps ahead straight for the Chaat stalls, and sundry amusement on the Northern Beach, you can most probably satiate your instinctual desires with the aromatic food and the series of dodgy movements set by the boats, sailing amidst the deep sea. But as the sake of caution, the long beach is quiet inviting but there are strong and treacherous high tides which could any time lead to mishap, so even if you will swim during the high tide, it is always recommended that you should avoid venturing too far.

The most famous place here is the Kal Bhairav Temple where you will fall in the trap of timelessness, and the waves lapping to the Sea Shores will take you in the world of mythological events. Being said to have been established by the sage Agasti, it’s still vague to figure out the date of its construction. The historical sources suggest its origin sometimes during the reign of Shivaji and it is believed that this Maratha king visited Harihareshwar in 1674, but it was certainly rebuilt again in the year 1723 by the first Peshwa. The rear of the temple leads to the top of a hill which is blocked by the grand boulder, split into a half. Wheeling back to the past centuries, when the Pandvas were sent in exile, the iron bodied Bhima, crushed the rock into two pieces and made a route to pass through the hills. Reminiscent to that day, the Bhima’s foot impressions carved on the rock can easily be figured out by the devotees exclusively. Hence giving its way to the issues forth, another side of the rock gave origination to the sweet drinking water. To verify this belief, the aspiring devotees can most probably check its authenticity by tasting it solely.

Carrying the similar trail of mythological events, when you will move a few kilometers to the narrow cleft which is known as Ganesh Gully behind the Kalbhairav Temple, you will definitely be left amazed by the believes connected with it. The devotees may feel fascinated to know that when the high tides dash against the cleft, they could be the luckiest ones to see the Lord Ganesha Idol developed by the force of retreating sea waves. But till date, very less people have seen the Idol of Lord Ganesha developed at the bottom of the niche. This more often depends upon the force of tide which recedes simultaneously and it could be difficult for you to get a glimpse of the statue.

Getting out of the fancy yet true tails of mythology, the vacationers as well as aspiring pilgrims can think of planning a comfortable stay at Harihareshwar Hotels exclusively. With the presence of budget as well luxurious Hotels in Harihareshwar, the visitors can most probably plan a delightful stay without burning a hole in their pocket. Well furnished floors, impeccable hospitality standards, finest dine meals, air/non air conditioned rooms, and so on are some of the faculties which could definitely make the entire tour of enthusiasts, a cherish able experience to share it with every one. The MTDC Resort, Tapovan resort, Mauli resort, and Sidhkala Hotel are some of the excellent instances of accommodations where the aspiring individuals can think of living their life in complete seclusion and solace. The Hotels in India following the same frame work of world class hospitality standards, gives a clear hint to the vacationers, that they can expect to spend the most beautiful moments of life with family or friends without getting apprehensive about any dine or any other facilities. In a stance to reach this untouched heaven, the travelers can take a route from NH 17 through pen, Nagothane, Kolad and Manegaon to Lonera Phata. They can turn right towards Goregaon and Mhasla, from where they can reach to Arathi road junction. Shrivardhan is 4 Kms straight ahead; the left turn is SH98 to Harihareshwar, which is 15 KM away.

Keeping a similar pace to the thoughts of solace and serenity, the travelers could filter their senses with the various rejuvenating activities, like sunbathing, swimming and many more things which all together, comes up in a complete package, while on a tour to this spectacular destination. Being a small town, Harihareshwar is genuinely the place about which the travelers have always imagined about in their morning dreams. The peace, glittering sea shores and the unexplored mysticism are just calling every travel enthusiast to ingrain their first footsteps on their land and be the one to be called as the sole explorers of the world still unveiled.

Alibaug—Enjoy the Assault of Beach Waves

2010-10-21T19:13:00.003+05:30

Nature has an habit of enticing and impressing every enthusiast who loves to spend few moments of life in complete aloofness. Alibaug in Maharashtra, Western India is such destination which is intricately caressed by the placid beaches. The travel savvy person who wants to enjoy each and every jaunty activity of the region would find enough space to recline on the sand beach.

Following the similar trail of events, during somnolent afternoons, punctuated with the swaying palm trees; the leisure travelers can make their holiday experience more rejuvenating and distinguished with every gulp of coconut water. This sylvan sea side getaway has pleased all the comers, to explore different dimensions of the region. Giving wings to the imagination, the aspiring vacationers can most probably make a visit to Alibaug Beach which consists of bathers, desperate to take a refreshing dip in the sea beach. Fortified by the historical artifacts, the keen travelers can reach this place by boarding a horse cart. The horse cart is the best option which could lead the vacationers to the heart throbbing trail of exploring the historical structures. Kolaba Fort is thus the living paragon, built by Shivaji still provokes the notion of bloody wars which left many warriors die brutally. Inside the fort is a rectangular pond, the entrance wall defaced with graffiti like far too many monuments in the country, would set the sense organs of the body paralyzed and numb for a few seconds. Also never forget a visit to Jai Bhavani and Hanuman Temples which generates the feeling of devotion obviously inexplicable in every context.

Gawking on the verdant carpet, the audacious vacationers can make a visit to Akshi Beach--exhibiting the vividness of the wild life, Someshwar Temple and Nagaon Beach can surely be accessed by aspiring travelers through taxi or bus running from Mandwa Jetty. The immaculate smell of the fish can assail the senses of the vacationers, to try something new in their delicacies. Besides this, the Kihim beach, Versoli Beach and temple circuit, located 15 KMS from Ailbaug can most surely be ventured by the enthusiasts by the any time of the year. Laced in the magnetizing beauty of hills, beaches, temples and blossoming gardens, the enthusiast can of course live the life of riley. The travelers can immerse themselves in the emotion of romantic rendezvous with their spouse. The Khimis beach is yet another destination which could be reached by boarding a short ride from Alibaug, and can be a proper retreat for most of the travel savvy looking for a comfortable stay. Khimis located 11 KM from the Alibaug is generously famous for various action flinched movie sequences, shot with a claim to get fame. Spending a night under the star studded sky and the flourishing night life, the vacationers can most probably think of camping in this region exclusively, making them to feel like a Bollywood celebrity for a few days. The enthusiasts can hire the tents from MTDC on the prices worth matching the value solely. Being completely an unmatchable and off beat destination, the vacationers can take a bus from Mumbai Central Bus Stand which takes 3 to 4 hours respectively, to reach Alibaug. As an alternative, the Sea launches or small ships which leave from Gateway of India from 6:15 AM and 6:30 PM can be lanced with a great ease. But all together talking about the accommodation as a whole, the aspiring travelers can plan their stay at Alibaug Hotels in order to embrace a cherishing holidaying experience.

Moreover, whenever it is talked about accommodation, the travelers while availing the Mumbai Tour Package can most surely plan their entire weekend at Hotels in Alibaug. Groomed with well furnished floors, unflinching dine services, 24 hours rooms services are some of the faculties professed by the Alibaug Hotels, specifically catering to the needs of every mindset. The vacationers who want to avoid any kind of chaos later can book the budget as well as luxury Hotels in Alibag in advance. Sea View Hotel, Mira Madhvan Hotel, Tropicana Beach Resort and Seven Seas Beach Resort are some of the Hotels which can bestow the travelers with an exhilarating staying experience.

In fact, adopting the rightful approach, the travelers craving to extinguish their hunger can take a trail to Vrindavan Farm, where they could grab an opportunity to eat some of the most famous-lip smacking Marathi cuisines. Going back to the memories, when travelers would flutter through the pages of their photograph album, they would again feel like venturing to this enthralling place.

Srinagar—The Heaven on Earth

2010-10-13T20:47:00.001+05:30

“If somewhere there is paradise on Earth it’s here, it’s here, it’s here”

Frozen in the times, the beauty of Srinagar is still unexplored. Being the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir in Northern India, Srinagar has such a magnetizing ambiance that could compel any enthusiast to capture all thrills and frills of the region in their video camera. Majestic age old structures, verdant hills, wooden styled homes are some of the features which makes Srinagar an eye stealing heaven on Earth. Besides this, if vacationers are planning to discover the mysticism of the region, then it is inevitable to peep into the rich cultural heritage and natural assets of this world still unfurled.

While trekking to the unexplored domains of Srinagar it is important that the travelers must appoint a guide with them. There are immense numbers of travel destinations that could provide the aspiring travelers an opportunity to rejuvenate their senses in the soulful cusp of nature. The tantalizing display of Dal lake, blossoming gardens, terrific mythological structures would definitely leave the travelers spell bound for few seconds. If you are really delighted to know about the history of Srinagar which was once ruled by Hindu and then Mughal emperors in the 12th century AD, then it is necessary that you must embark your presence and be the pioneer in discovering its value able mythological assets. In 1320, the Ladakhi Prince Rinchin was the first Muslim King that ruled the city. Following the tyranny of Mughal rule, Aurangzeb succeeded as the last ruler in the year 1665. Leading the divine trail, Srinagar is also full of stories which shows the unanimity and the fusion of Sufi-Armenian-Jewish cultures solely.

While on a Tour to Srinagar, the aspiring bag packers can specifically witness a breath taking view of the Harwan Gardens, which are not at all Mughal in an aspect but a close imitation of Old Mughal Gardens. Moving further, the travelers can visit to Khandar or Harichandoz which is a few kilometers away from the main gardens. The Pratap Singh Museum is the other place where the vacationers could feast their eyes with the Buddhists remains which were once the part of 4-5th century old Harwan Vihara. With the passage of time, these structures survived the natural calamities and later they were shifted to Srinagar. In fact, when the travelers will move 4 KMS down the road they will be exorbitantly jarred by the grandiose-well-savored Nishat Bagh. Laid out in the year 1632 by Jehangir, this travel destination has been exhibiting a secluded identity. The crimson light of sun falling on the mountains, and the vividness of marooned flowers, is something can’t be missed by the travelers exclusively. Sharing the same league, the Chashma Shahi Garden on slopes of Zabrewan can easily be reached by boarding taxi or bus stranded in the close vicinity. While traversing on the dusty lanes, the travelers would of course be bemused by the thought that which destination is really more eye stealing? In Short, the answer would surely be that all carry these structures are pious and hail the unique remarks of Excellency and greatness which is most promisingly testament to their history. Trekking ahead, the aspiring vacationers with all their spirits in ebullient mood can cherish some most beautiful memories of life by visiting to Pari Mahal, Jyestheshvara Temple, Shankaracharya Hill or Takhtei-Suleiman—the divine dome of Adi Shankaracharya, Hari Parbat, Masjid of Akhund Mullah—mosque bearing its inscriptions dating to 1649, and the most famous Jami Masjid. The travelers if feeling tired after the visit to these destinations can make an attempt to recharge their senses at floating vegetable Market, taking a staggering ride on Shikara Dal Lake and last but not least, the they can steer their keen eye balls to Gardens of Charminar. Strewed on vast expanses, the vacationers can put their ordeal to a relaxing halt at the well known eateries which could definitely satiate their gastronomical desires simultaneously.

Apart from the belly rich diet, the vacationers who seem to be apprehensive about the accommodation can plan their stay at Srinagar Hotels. Professed with all the necessary facilities like 24 hours rooms service, caring staff dine meals services and well maintained infrastructure, the Hotels in Srinagar provides one of the most stupendous stay for the vacationers. The Srinagar Package weaved with the best spate of itineraries, can make the entire holidaying experience the most cherished moment of life. The Srinagar Accommodations maintaining the similar trends along the by lines of India Hotels can provide vacationers with every comfort matching their expectations uniquely. These Hotels in India with its world class hospitality standards equally brace an important niche which compels every traveler to plan a holiday suiting well the mindset as well pockets of the discerning travelers. Hotel Broadway, Gulistan Palace, HB Bluebird and Hotel Grand Palace Intercontinental are some of the Hotel in Srinagar which could provide the vacationers with the most deserving stay they have imagined about.

All together, the over all stay at Srinagar Hotels won’t burn a hole in your pocket. But ending the Srinagar Tour on positive note, the travelers can surely carry the aroma of its famous cuisines in their minds and hearts. While at the same time they can unfold the mesmeric kaleidoscopic spectacle and go back into the time when they spent one of the most precious moments of their life with their family or the laced ones.

Kerala: God’s Own Country

2010-10-05T17:48:00.002+05:30

India with its share of innumerable forts, beckoning monuments, mushrooming cities and quaint villages, is an enthralling land which showcases the grandiose kaleidoscope of the sights and sounds, magnetizing enough to roll your nerves to the extreme levels of ecstasies. Carrying the similar trail of ecstasies in Southern India, Kerala is clubbed between the Arabian Sea and Western Ghats created by the continuous assault of the Sea waves. The beauty is comparable to the American islands and is bestowed with an indispensable eco system giving its passage to fresh water flowing to blend with the vastness of Arabian Sea. Going deeper into the different geographical dimensions, Kerala is the state suffused with the accents of vividness and fervor, all combining to show the real warmth of India.

Besides its cultural aesthetics and accents, Kerala would provide the aspiring travelers an immense scope to explore the backwaters and the traditional rice boats with woven mats to resemble barges. Originally these boats blend with the natural surrounding and are generally used for transporting rice. Today these boats can be easily figured out, moving gaily in the waters. Embossed with the jack fruit logs, bamboo sticks and painted with the black resin extracted from cashew kernels, these back waters boats are the unique man made marvels which can certainly be boarded at Allappuzha, Kollam. The most intoxicating experience could be a cruise on the Oberoi Motor Vessel—Vrinda Backwater cruiser, which is an exquisite cruiser plying the backwaters of Kerala. With the air conditioned cabins, elegantly dressed crew and the king sized beds overlooking the ostentatious waters would tend to skip the heart beat at first sight. The vacationers can lie back in their comfortable seats and can surely enjoy the picturesque view of landscapes with an every sip of fresh coconut water. The withering sands on the shorelines, presenting a breath taking view of the beaches, swaying palm trees and natural lagoons can more often compel the travel savvy to surrender them selves to the harmony of tranquil ambiance.

While passing through Kovalam beach to Vakala, the aspiring travelers will be left awestruck, while satiating their eyes with the admirable beauty of the high cliffs-rising majestically from the coast line. Suffused in rich mineral springs, the travelers would also witness an ordeal to various places like Kappad-the place where Vasco Da Gamma landed in the discovery of ‘new world’. An interesting sight here is the conning rock that sank into the sea, with a temple on it believed to be over 800 year old. An adventure seeker could find an immense scope to explore the infinite number of opportunities to indulge themselves in several thrilling sports like swimming, angling, snookering, scuba diving, kayaking, wind surfing and deep sea fishing solely. Apart from all, if you are feeling tired, then snake boat race during the monsoon season can contrarily, bring back your lost energies. These boats are 100 to 120 feet long, and hold around 100 rowers each. Each village in the region has its own snake boat, which is a great pride to villagers as well. Every year they get together and race the boats along the lakes and rivers between the months of July and September. Eventually, if you feel too bored with the ruckus and bustle, you can specifically trip to hill stations in Western Ghats. The varied architectural styles, roofing pattern of the houses, visits to martial arts complexes and the Ayurveda based centers would definitely be a spell binding experience for all those vacationers looking for complete rejuvenation.

But before the aspiring vacationers would head towards sublime vistas, they can most possibly plan their entire stay at some best budget or luxurious Hotels in Kerala. The Kerala Tour Package offered by various Kerala Hotels, includes every aspect of royal living. Well furnished floors, air conditioned rooms, highly creative artifacts, world class hospitality standards are some of the faculties inhabited by the Hotels in India exclusively. The honeymoon couples if seeking to celebrate their precious moments of life can surely opt for the Kerala Honeymoon Tours Package. The Kerala tour package will include a visit to various destinations like Munnar, Kovalam, Kumrakom and Kochi which are quiet synonymous to the reassuring terms of romance, passion and wellness. These are the places where the two souls would most probably explore each others lingering instincts in complete seclusion. But as the matter of choice distinctly, if the leisure travelers or honeymoon couples want to keep their tour entirely restricted to one touring destination then, Munnar Honeymoon Tours Package is the best alternative.

While during a stay at Kerala , the vacationers visit to Kerala will be incomplete without bracing the aromatic cuisines of the region. The flavors of curry, red chilies, appam, rasya, payasam and so on are more imbibing and unforgettable for the travel enthusiast looking to satisfy their gastronomical desires. The pure rich accents of food will indeed remind them about the paradise on Earth which is to be found in the pristine cusp and unsullied land genuinely known as Kerala.

Mudumalai—Wild Life Fiesta

2010-09-28T20:03:00.002+05:30

India is the country where the vastness of flora and fauna is still covering the huge chunks of fertile land. Following the trail in South India, Tamil Nadu, the subsistence of Niligiri Hills deliberately whispers about the greatness of flourishing wild life in India. With the humongous impressions of wild life found over large parts of Southern India, Mudumalai is uniquely one of the wild life cockpits sharing its borders with Bangalore in Karnataka. Located 224 KMS away from the Bangalore (Karnataka), it approximately takes around 6 hours to reach this mesmerizing place by road. Festooned with the symphony of dense forests, enchanting placid beauty and clinging coniferous trees, this Mudumalai Sanctuary in Nilgiri District, Tamil Nadu allures infinite number of travelers from different corners of the world. Being the part of Niligiri Biosphere, the density of wild life can’t be explained in a few words. This is the most secluded destination which can actually be known by visiting it.

Taking you amidst the dense clusters of verdant greens and wooden beefed meadows, Mudumalai Wild sanctuary is crooned with an enriching flora and fauna. Walking through the aloof meadows, the travelers could really feel more anxious to explore the looming wild life activity of the region. Languors, Elephants with long tusks, eye opening activities of birds searching for food and many more things would definitely leave the travelers spell bound for few seconds. But if the vacationers want to try something wild, they must try their hand on Jungle safari. The vehicles offered by the forest department are quiet rickety and could give the travelers a turbulent roller coaster ride. As the matter of fact, the entire journey in the government owned vehicle may irritate you for ever. To avoid any kind chaos later, the ride on elephant is quiet comfortable and safe for all those vacationers who really want to capture each and every moment in their still or video camera. The timings for wild life Safari are generally, 7:00 to 9:00AM in the morning and 3:30 to 6:00 PM in the evening. The travelers can also take long drive in their own vehicle and it will be more comfortable than the regular bumpy rides. Further more, if you have the luck of gambler than you can also spot the herds of elephants, panther and wild dogs in the vicinity of the road itself. For many reasons, these wild life creatures are now accustomed to the din of passing vehicles and they don’t harm any one enthusiast, snapping their images or video films.

Fostering the similar trends, Mudumalai has a long history of culture, tradition, war and royalty. Mushroomed over the Nilgiri biosphere in Western Ghats, this wild life sanctuary was one the war torn center of training Burmese army. But followed by the aftermath of events, it was transformed into the Theppakadu Elephant Camp where now a days the timber logging and forestry chores are carried for the industrial purposes. With the presence of Moyar River and Nilgiris in close proximity, this region receives two types of monsoons, one during the months of June to September and another during the month of October to November solely. The temperatures remain moderate during the major part of the year. Bison valley view point, Moyar Falls, Masin Gudi are some of the places where soulful satisfaction is pretty assured.

Besides, tweaking your self with the soulful experience, it is assured that you may be seeking for some suitable accommodation. The Hotels in Mudumalai are professed with all the faculties which could bestow the discerning travelers with an unmatchable stay. Well furnished floors, air conditioned rooms, aromatic flavors of fine delicacies, multilayer ed cultural melange are some of the features which could most surely steal your heart for few seconds. In this quick-fix world you of course would not like to wait for a few seconds either but would surely try to search for the best Hotels in Mudumalai. Green Park Resort, Jungle Hut and Blue Valley Jungle Resort are some of the hotels which provide an incomparable Accommodation in Mudumalai. These Mudumalai Hotels being ensconced with in the close proximity of wild life forest, presents an instance of serene stay for all those travelers looking for an unforgettable holiday experience.

Living your life and maneuvering towards the most cherish able memories is the thing which could definitely compel the vacationers to think about spending few holidays reeling their senses in some beautiful resort. But if you are really imaginative enough to fill the most marvelous colors life into the real world, then you must visit Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary ones in a lifetime. In fact when you will look in the photograph album, you would like to fall in love with your life again.

Puttaparthi--Sri Sathya Sai Baba

2010-09-22T16:01:00.003+05:30

“I am God. And you too are God. The only difference between you and me is that while I am aware of it, you are completely unaware.”

Truth, right conduct, peace, love, and nonviolence are some of the principles advocated by the superfluous soul ‘Sri Sathya Sai Baba’. In order to understand the real core of this great saint, let’s go back in the century when India was still under the British tyranny. Born on 23rd November 1926, Sri Sathya Sai Baba was born under the auspicious influence of stars, giving the trail of indications that divine power has taken birth in the small Village of Andhra Pradesh. Puttaparthi., the cradle of great divine power is evident of all the superficial events that took place during the early years in 20th century. During his child hood days, Sri Sathya was known by the name Brahmajnani. As the name suggests, the intensity of highest divinity, Sri Sathya during his teenage never craved for material things. His interests were completely different from rest of the children in the village. True Devotion, strong affiliation and feeling of sympathy, equanimity were some of the qualities rarely found in any of his kindred folks during those days. At the age of 14, when he discovered that he had achieved the pinnacle of enlightenment, he declared the notion of salvation to his relatives. He called himself as ‘Sri Sathya Sai’(incarnation of Sai Baba, Shirdi), enthralled by his testimony; everyone in the village followed his well defined footsteps of love, care, benevolence and mercy towards the needy ones.

Prasanthi Nilayam (the Abode of Divine Peace)

Following the track of spiritual accolades, in the year 23rd November 1950, the devotees of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, inaugurated the Ashram with the name Prasanthi Nilayam (the Abode of Divine Peace). The main aim of building this Ashram was to uplift the poor or destitute ones by preaching them with the highest level of noble thoughts. With the grace and blessings of this great saint, today there are immense numbers of charitable hospitals, hermitage for the poor, and educational institutions are carrying the beacon of his ideals successfully. Besides this, Puttaparthi hallowed by the divine presence of this sublime saint receives huge influx of devotees from every nook and corner of the globe. It is believed that Sri Sathya Sai Baba relinquishes every pain or misery of his devotees by the supernatural affect of his powers inhabited by him.

In retrospect, there are also infinite numbers of real stories speaking about the great boasts of him. The best instance is the story of Mr Dixit, who in the year 1918 visited the dome of Shridi’s Sai Baba in a stance to get cure from his physical ailments. Shridi’s Sai Baba gave him a Udhi-the powdered ash to be consumed in diluted liquid form. Eventually, the powdered Ash showed better results and Mr. Dixit was relieved from the physical ailment. Again, after the gap of 45 years, Mr Dixit saw some man with crowned hair following him in the dreams. At the first glimpse he didn’t believed that the man following him in the dreams was the re-incarnation of Shirdi’s Sai Baba. But when he came to Puttaparthi, Sri Sathya Sai Baba left him frozen when he told him about the series of his meetings at Shirdi. Perhaps from that day he commenced following this divine light effulgent in the small town of Andhra Pradesh.

However, to achieve enlightenment devotees’ throng to visit this reverberating niche of divine energy, it is obvious that they would be looking for some most convenient stay at Hotels in Puttaparthi. Dotted with one of the finest facilities; the Puttaparthi Hotels cater to the needs of every discerning traveler. But following the trail of budget and luxurious hotels, Chaitanya International Hotel, Sai Towers and Sai Plaza come under the league of most suitable Puttaparthi Accommodation options offered to the mindset of every aspiring devotee. The entire ambiance of these Puttaparthi Hotels is weaved in the amalgam of divinity in such a manner that you can flow in the thoughts of spirituality while at the same time, providing you the rejuvenating experience in totality.

Coming back to Sri Sathya Sai Baba, every accent of this place embrace a vital supremacy of discourses offered in the premises of Puttaparthi. With an assortment of Various religious activities, the devotees are provided with the spiritual discourses on fixed timings. There is a separate kitchen, majestic lecture rooms and free accommodation for all the devotees who have planned a week long schedule to immerse their minds in the element of spirituality. Moreover, each and every corner of the ashram is soaked in the aura of divine bathe that you will feel like exuding your self to highest levels of super consciousness. Living and thinking about Shri Sathya Sai Baba is not merely the thought but it is the true virtue which by following could improve the lives of devotees in different dimensions.

Periyar Hotels and Accomodations

2010-09-08T16:02:00.004+05:30

Gift wrapped with one of the picturesque valleys, the Periyar Wildlife sanctuaries also known as Thekkady is positioned in the Idduki District of South Kerala. The Periyar Sanctuary located 777 Sq Km above the sea level offers vast array of valleys, wild life and serene ambience to the aspiring travelers. The travelers coming to this beautiful destination could avail an opportunity from the vast range of Periyar Hotels festooning in different corners of the region. While choosing the best property from the list of hotels, it is necessary for the bag packers to select the viable location according to their comfort and convenience. Additionally, there are many benchmarks like proximity, facilities, reach ability, transport, prices, dinning and hospitality standards which could be kept in mind while choosing the Periyar Hotels Locations.

Besides this, if you really want to enjoy an idea of living in complete seclusion and luxury, then Hotel Aranya Niwas could be the best option. Located amidst the lush green and tranquil spaces of the Periyar sanctuary, this is a 3 star property of KSTDC blessed with excellent dinning, unblemished 24 hours room service, laundry, manicured spas, air condition, and travel assistance. The special attractions include the wild life safari which is exceptionally peerless in all aspects. Sharing its close proximity, the bus station is only 4 KMS away. The Kottyam railway station and Madurai Airport are positioned more than 100 KMS away from the main hotel. The tariffs generally follow the trend of great variation commencing from 2500 to 7000 Rupees, which could be specifically availed depending upon the requirement and room availability.

However, if you want to enjoy the vivacity of the region more closely, then Spice Village Hotel suffused with the backdrop of Periyar Sanctury and Cordomom hills could provide you the most comfortable stay. Encompassed with tempting balcony view, eye catching azure skies and aroma of spice plantations, this property is worth visiting for a week long stay. Ayurvedic massage, indoor sports, relishing gourmet meals are some of the facilities provided by the Spice village hotel. Interestingly, Kumily Bus stand is clubbed at the reachable distance of 1km. Kottyam Railway Station and Madurai Airport is 130 KMS away from the main hotel. As it is already a full fledged villa, the cost inclusive of all taxes range from 10,000 to 12,000 Rupees.

Apart from all, Periyar Accommodations also exhibit various budget hotels which provide incomparable stay at reasonable prices. Hotel Ambadi Green Berg Holiday Resort, Edassery Resorts Woodlands, Prime Castle Hotel Leela Pankaj, and MAS Lake Queen hotel are some of the budget hotels providing you the most delightful experience of life . The Periyar Hotels Facilities are unmatchable and share a close affiliation with international standards. Well maintained rooms, briskly furnished floors, flawless room services, serene ambience soaked with outer beauty are some of features that attract every eye to plan their holiday at the above mentioned Periyar Hotels exclusively.

Delhi Zoo

2009-11-09T14:39:00.006+05:30

I do not remember when I had last visited the Delhi Zoo. Always had this fixation that animals are best left in the wild and to see them inside the cages is an upfront assault on animal rights. However this time I had to give in to the demands- a combination of family and work to make it through.

This Saturday, braving long traffic snarls and smog covered Delhi skyline we managed to reach the Zoo somehow around 2 pm. On inquiring, the parking lot Guard enlightened us that we can be inside till 6 and the last ticket is issued at 4 pm. Heaving a sigh of relief we went inside. The ticket was Rs 10 for adults and Rs 5 for kids.

A good and sign of assurance was the special emphasis on security and on taking eatables inside. There was thorough frisking. Plastic, eatables (the notorious biscuits which many overzealous visitors had often used to get friendly with the Chimpanzees or Deer) were strict no no. In my opinion even Mobiles need to be banned inside as I found some workaholics giving frenzied instruction from their mobile sets very close to the railing that separates us from Animals. This looked quite vulgar.

The Zoo is well kept with lots of greenery, though the constant sound of trains passing through the Pragati Maidan station was quite disturbing. The first to greet us were the water birds on the left hand side. A few paces ahead there was the first signage in stones which said if we follow the signage the visit could be wrapped up in 2 hours. Enticed we decided to stick to it.

Soon, we encountered our prized moment of the day the best find- Painted Storks. It seemed that these amazing birds have established a kind of Colony inside the wetlands of the zoo. Perhaps it was their nesting time and the zoo authorities equal to the task have barricaded the entire area with dried tree branches to protect their privacy. The Painted storks known in Latin as Mycteria leucocephala are about 3 feet tall and with orange bills they looked heavenly. Their flapping of wings, standing on the treetops and feeding the young ones were no less amusing to a lay visitor like me than to any ornithologist or zoologist. I bet just looking at their activities can tranquil the most fretted nerves. After spending some good 35 to 40 minutes did the thought came that we were running short of time.

Passing through enclosures for Neelgai the signboard there gave an interesting piece of Information. That Neelgai, an antelope was saved from extinction due to mindless hunting was for the sake of its name. Neelgai’s “Gai”, Hindi for Cows thus sacred in India is the saviour. A brilliant idea came to my mind, why not go on a naming spree and somehow put the “Gai “to all those animals endangered thus. Tigers, Elephants, Ghrarial( in the Ganges)- just anything and everything. The Wildlife authorities can take cognizance of this if they read this blog.

Along the designated route we passed by the enclosures of Lion Tailed Macaque, Rhinoceros (none was spotted), a number of antelopes-Cheetal, blackbucks et al, Chimpanzees (unmindful of the public gaze seemed enjoying the early winters).

Next to catch my attention was the enclosure for the Sambars Although most animals were in tolerable enclosures, the Sambars seemed huddled together and there was genuine lack of space or was it too many of them. By a rough headcount I found atleast 40 jostling for space, can the Zoo officials take note of this?

The cages for birds were another attraction Eagles, Parakeets looked majestic. A vociferous crowd of young school children passing by theses cages were imitating the shrill sounds made by the Parakeets much to their discomfiture. One of the young boys perhaps summed up their plight in right earnest when he started counting the numbers written on the cages as “Quaidi Nambar Ek, Quaidi Nambar Do……”

After seeing the Crocodiles lying as if dead near the moat we decided to call it a day and made an about turn from the "guided tour" offered by the stone signages( infact we also got deviated from them).

One last word, the Camera was missed squarely and taking it inside invited no extra amount either (video camera does). This was due to my inhibition of not to look like a ‘Camera lugging tourist’.

Pachmarhi, Queen of Satpura

2009-10-10T16:46:00.006+05:30

For people from north Pachmarhi still remains a distant dream as compared to hill stations like Shimla, Manali or even as far as those in Sikkim. So the scorching heat of Delhi and the advertisements put by MP Tourism did us in as we decided Pachmarhi to escape.

Pachmarhi nestling in the Satpura hills derives its name from the 5 caves up in a hill which was uses by the Pandava Brothers during their years of exile. During the British Raj it was used as a sanatorium for the ailing soldiers of the British Army. Gathering as much information as possible on the attractions of Saputara as on the logistics we found out that Pachmarhi has enough logistical reasons to loose out as a favoured destination for the northerners. Pipariya the closest railhead to the hill retreat (around 50 km) is not serviced by trains from Delhi. There are two choices either to get down at the state capital Bhopal which is about 195 km away or at mainline Itarsi some 120 km from Pachmarhi. We decided on the later to save on time if not costs!. So on a hot humid June night we boarded the cooler climes of the AC 3 Tier compartments of Karnataka Express to take us to Itarsi.

In the morning we reached Itarsi little aware of what was in store for us. Asking for the Taxis to cover the 120 km distance and we were stormed by an army of overzealous Drivers and their touts all eager to ferry us but for a sum or perhaps a ransom. Some demanded 2500 bugs some 2000 it was as if a free for all Tamasha with everybody trying to lift our luggage. Hungry and desperate to reach the queen of Satpurara ranges we zeroed on a Cab with the least quoted price and was on our way soon.

After some time the hilly roads started with zig-zag and sharp bends and the temperature became gentler on the skin gave us a feel of Pachmarhi at an altitude of 3555 feet.

Finding accommodation was not a problem as we had already booked accommodation with Hotel Glen View a MPTDC run hotel. The hotel as with many other State government run properties is situated at the most vantage point of the hill station giving a fascinating view of the bucolic landscape besides a being a building with historical antecedents.

The well furnished rooms were spacious and clean thus making us forget all the travails we faced on the journey from Itarsi. The hotel along with good food and cooperative staff also takes care of the laundry.

Pachmarhi is not very glamorous as compared to other hill stations there are no palaces, sight points or for that matter any other source of amusement but the woody expanse encapsulates and overwhelms you wherever you go. Sal, Mahu and Harrh trees dominate everything else.

The falls for which Pachmarhi are known tempts one to trek as most of them are quite some distance below the ground level. We visited Rajat Prapat, and then some distance away was Apsara Vihar. Then there are the Bee Fall and the somehow difficult Duchess fall.

A visit to Chauragarh merits a full day trip. Here on a hill top, a life size idol of Lord Shiva exists. As reaching the point requires climbing 1200 stairs so think twice before deciding on this arduous climb.

A must visit is the Priyadarshini point named after Smt. Indira Gandhi. It gives a panoramic view of Pachmarhi. Formerly known as Forsyth point after Captain James Forsyth, who discovered Pachmarhi supposedly from this point in 1857.

Other points include Bade Mahadev, Gupt Mahadev, Ambadevi Temple and off course if you are an wildlife buff a visit to the Satpura Tiger Sanctuary is a must.

Like all good things our brief sojurn in the hills of Satpura came to an end but not before some nasty haggling and ugly moments with the Taxi that brought us back to earth at Itarsi. Some thoughts for MP tourism to make the access easier for gullible travelers like us into this wonderful retreat.

Nathdwara, Gateway to the Lord

2009-09-04T15:03:00.011+05:30

In Nathdwara it seems the clock is tuned to the activities of Shree Nath Ji everything and everyone goes by the Lord’ way no doubt the people seems a bit whimsical considering Shreeji lives here in the ‘Live Form’ of a small child who is known as the most adorable prankster.

Arriving at Nathdwara to have a quick Darshan and leave for Udaipur afterwards is not possible, you need to have a Himalayan patience. The lord is accessible but not for those in a hurry. The Darshans of Shreeji are regulated and opens up eight times day albeit in short bursts. This makes for huge serpentine queues and occasional skirmishes with those in charge of the securities.

The eight “Darshans” or “Jhankis” as they are called starts from the morning when he is waken up and ends with his going to bed early in the evening. These are termed as Mangala; Shringar; Guwal; Rajbhog; Utthapan; Bhog; Aarti; Shyan. With the exception of Shyan devotees can be a privy to the lord’s Darshan. Shyan is not always performed openly and is open to masses only on certain special occasions.

Shrinathdwara is one of the most important pilgrimages of the "Pushtmargiya Vaishnavites” whose proponent was the 15^th century scholar Vallabhacharya. A large number of pilgrims belonging to this sect and others ascend daily here from the various towns in Gujarat. No doubt Gujarat and Gujaratis have a formidable presence in this small temple town. With countless small eateries promising authentic Gujarati Thalis in various price tags, Gujarati Dharmashalas and Hotels with names written in Gujarati are prominent here.

Nathdwara is reminiscent of typical Temple towns in India where it seems very little have changed over the centuries. Constricted lanes taken away by overzealous shopkeepers selling their wares, countless sweet shops selling the favourite sweets of the lord all claiming to have been prepared with 100 % pure Milk and Desi Ghee, mishmash of overhead cables, constant stream of crowds on the road- all vying with each other for some breathing space. An ICICI ATM counter amidst the plethora of rundown shops looks some kind of a mismatch here.

If you are an enthusiastic ‘eater’ and ‘shopper’ type, who can leverage good bargains out of impossible prices, then the Chaupati Bazaar with colourful shops is the place to head for.

Navneet Priyaji or the adorable lord is everywhere in framed metallic cases, in the famed Pichhwais painting on cloth wall hangings, copper and silver vessels all make for the perfect souvenirs. After shopping, a combo of Doodh- Jalebi from Puroshottam Bhai Doodh Jalebi Wala works wonders and keeps you sustained till the main meal of a royal Gujarati or Rajasthani Thali.

Leaving Shreeji’s Haveli as the temple is known as comes with a tinge of sadness as well as with a promise- to be back again at the most opportune time.

Luxury train will cover popular destinations in North India

2008-10-07T14:45:00.001+05:30

Luxury train will cover popular destinations like Amritsar, Dharamshala, Anandpur Sahib, Patiala, Kurukshetra, Jaipur, Agra and Delhi in a week-long itinerary. The Ministry of Tourism has joined hands with Indian Railways and Punjab government to launch a “Palace on Wheels” tourist train . Ministry planed to expance 7.25 crore on Luxury Train.

Indian tourism had grown 10.4 per cent in the first half of this year

2008-10-01T19:19:00.000+05:30

British Ambassador for Overseas Business Lord Swraj Paul said the increased flights from the UK to India from 2001 (19 per week) to today (134 per week) has largely contributed to the growing capacity of the Indian tourism industry.

According to nstonline.com, the revenue from international tourism rose from US$2.6 billion in 1995 to US$3.6 billion in 2000, then to US$7.5 billion in 2005. The percentage increase in foreign exchange earnings from tourism was 16.8 per cent in 2007.

The Indian government has confirmed India is attracting record numbers of international tourists despite the current economic climate and high fuel prices, reports the Press Trust of India.

India is expected to see an influx of 10 Million international tourists by 2010, up from just 5 Million in 2007

2008-09-26T16:14:00.002+05:30

India represents one of the most potential tourism markets in the world. It has expanded rapidly over the past few years and underpinned by the government support, rising income level and various international sports events, the Indian tourism industry will continue to grow at the fastest pace in the coming years.

Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Rajasthan are the leading tourism destinations in India in terms of total tourist arrivals. The growth in India's tourism market is expected to serve as a boon, driving the growth of several associated industries, including hotel industry, medical tourism industry and aviation industry.

Singapore, Dubai most popular destinations for Indian tourists

2008-09-24T12:39:00.001+05:30

Increasing numbers of Indians are travelling abroad for business and leisure and Asian countries are their favourite destinations with Singapore and Dubai heading the list, according to a survey released Wednesday.

Most Indian-outbound travellers come from a rapidly expanding urban middle class with larger disposable incomes, the Neilson India Outbound Travel Monitor 2008 said. The survey was conducted in partnership with the Pacific Asia Travel Association.

Asian countries are the most popular destinations for Indian travellers, who spend an average of 1,789 dollars per person per leisure trip.

Singapore is the most popular destination, followed by Dubai, Australia and Malaysia.

Asian countries account for about 72 per cent of recent leisure trips and 63 per cent of business trips by Indians, the survey found.

New Zealand is latest destination for Indian tourists

2008-02-13T11:09:00.006+05:30

Most visitors are choosing to stay in 4- or 5-star hotels, luxury lodges and boutique accommodation on an average spending NZ$3,425 (Rs.105,782), excluding airfare, per person per trip - higher than the average of NZ$3,115 (Rs.96,304) spent by tourists from other countries.

Bangalore-based Ajay Vij, a senior executive with Accenture, recently travelled with his wife Kavita and two kids to New Zealand. He says, "We as a family enjoy travelling to places where nature plays a huge role.

"New Zealand attracted us as it had so many elements within a single country and it didn't disappoint. We were exposed to fiords, glaciers, volcanoes, geothermal activity, whales and wine regions."

Kavita, a corporate training consultant, says: "The country is pure and beautiful, fragile is some parts and immensely strong in others. The friendly and content Kiwis love their country and openly share this with their visitors."

Most Indians spend four days in Auckland and Rotorua in North Island - some even venture to drive north to the Bay of Islands - and seven days in South Island, touring Christchurch, Mount Cook, Queenstown and Milford Sound.

However, many young couples choose to spend 12-14 days only in South Island.

"As many as 65 percent of Indian travellers do only New Zealand whereas 40 percent take specialised tours combining New Zealand with Australia. April to June are most popular months for small family groups whereas honeymooners and young couples travel all through the year," Tourism New Zealand India Manager Kiran Nambiar told IANS.

Favourable weather during the northern winter, fly and self-drive deals, ease with English and a competitive dollar are perhaps some reasons why New Zealand is such a hit with Indian families and honeymooners.

"An Indian honeymooning couple spends on an average two weeks touring across New Zealand, staying in 4-star accommodation and spending a few days in a luxury lodge. Families normally prefer apartments with cooking facilities," says Nambiar.

New Zealand being so sparsely populated, one honeymooning couple from Rajasthan says, "It gives you space and a chance to spend quiet time together. It is serene, romantic and at the same time adventurous and exciting."

Many young families and couples look at the varied leisure activities the country offers. There is much to choose from: soft adventure - jet boating, whale and dolphin watching, hot air balloon rides and high adrenalin sports like sky diving and bungee jumping.

It is little wonder that readers of Wanderlust, Britain's leading travel magazine, have voted New Zealand as the top country to travel to. New Zealand received an impressive 96.86 percent satisfaction points followed closely by Madagascar and Namibia.

However, as Nambiar says, "2007 posed a challenge with fewer airline seats and higher airfares making the growth decline to 7.8 percent, but increase in flight capacity between India and Asian transit points will make it easier for Indian visitors to get to New Zealand. For 2008, we expect an increase of 10 to 15 percent in visitor arrivals from India."

A New Zealand Tour Video

It is not just Indians travelling to New Zealand. In December 2007, there were 19 percent more trips by Kiwis to India compared to the previous year, according to Statistics New Zealand.

Time For A Photo Trip

2008-01-17T11:34:00.000+05:30

When traveling to a distant place it is almost second nature to want to bring a camera and for a good reason. Most people are looking to make a travel journal to keep the memory of their trip alive and in vivid color and be able to show it off to their family and friends. The most important thing to know even before you start your journey is the research. Taking time to study a place that you are planning to visit and plan a shooting itinerary will help enhance the quality and number of photo opportunities you can encounter along the way.

When it comes to travel photography, the man made world has so much to offer. When you first walk out of the hotel, you will see the city streets that stretch for miles in each direction. During sun rise or sun set this can be the perfect time to take a few select pictures. City vista photos are shot to show a softer and more elegant side to a city or town with a skyline in the background. Stained glass windows can make a wonderful and beautiful picture. The simplicity to taking a picture with this type of subject is that the artists already has done all of the creative work for you.

We cannot forget the people that you will encounter during your trip to a far off land. The beauty of pictures of people is that it shows one side of a life filled with charm and wonder that we do not get to see in our everyday lives. Strangers faces make any travelers photo journey complete. The best way to encounter a subject for this type of picture would be to look where people may gather, fairs, a market place or a city park are the best places to start.

India Travel for First timers, Tips to reduce culture shock

2008-01-11T17:06:00.001+05:30

The Indian destination of your dreams may be dotted with palaces, the Taj Mahal, elephants and saints in yoga postures. A de-bunking of the mythical India. To many, India is the land of spices, romance, hot summers and palaces. It is a land of many peoples, languages and cultures - one that promises to pack in an entire continent into a single country. However many seasoned travelers and travel guides fail to tell you what to expect on your first visit. It is, in two short words, sensory overload. From the time you land at any of the international airports in India, nothing really prepares you for the sights, sounds and smells you will encounter here. A sea of sights. On the ride to your hotel, you will see a swirl of colors in the clothes, the three wheeled auto-rickshaws, lorries, billboards and buildings even on the dreariest days of winter. Traffic. You will realize that there is no real demarcation between the freeways and the foot paths. People will often spill on to the road while your cab maneuvers through narrow streets. Occasionally you might even have cattle, elephants, camels or stray dogs (depending on which part of the country you are in) sharing road space with your vehicle. If you look touristy you are also bound to attract the curious eyes of people around you - privacy is a luxury here. On the flip side, you will never have trouble finding help when you need it. Sound horn, ok.

Now that is a phrase you will see painted behind every heavy vehicle you will see. A popular joke about buying a vehicle in India goes thus - the first thing one should test is the horn. Without it one would be severely handicapped when one needs to get people, cattle or other cars out of the way. Musicians, hawkers, fire crackers during festivals, lottery ticket sellers and so on will compete add to the background score as you move through the country. Roadside food stalls, jasmine flowers or fumes from vehicle exhaust pipes will give you the heady mix of aromas that people associate with India. It will take a while for you to get used to all these sensory inputs, which shouldn't be thought of as a pain, rather they add to the magical Indian experience that you will treasure for years to come.
Be prepared

The only way to enjoy your Indian holiday from the start is to firmly follow this Boy Scout motto.
Here are some tips to manage the initial culture shock:

Read well before your trip - Don't just stick to travelogues and guide books. Also seek out and read articles from local media, blogs and online discussion forums that describe life in India with all its eccentricities and incentives.

Carry earplugs - They will serve you well on trips when you are jet lagging and need to drown out sounds to sleep.

Among the most bothersome people you will encounter are touts and beggars - No matter how much they talk, plead or threaten, never give in. The best favor you can do yourself and them is to ignore these pleas. Handing out money to the poor who gather around cars at signals rarely benefits them. Most often, children who beg never get to spend the money they are given. If you're still keen to help, buying them a meal would be a better idea.

Always bargain with road side vendors - Except in shops that explicitly state so and in malls, prices are rarely set in stone. Always negotiate for a better deal.

Carry a hand sanitizer and wet wipes for emergencies. Also ask for mineral water at all restaurants.

No matter how hot you’re used to having your food, ask restaurant personnel to tone down the spices in your dishes. Chances are they will any way do so if you look foreign.

When greeting people try to fold your hands and say Namaste especially with people of the opposite sex.

India is the best place to be for a budget traveler but try and take domestic flights or travel by air conditioned classes in trains to get to far flung destinations.

Be aware that IST not only stands for Indian Standard Time but also for Indian Stretchable Time.

Kerala's Wayanad district brims with tourists

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Located in North Kerala, 60 km east of Kozhikode, at an altitude ranging from 700 to 2,100 metres on the Western Ghats, Wayanad attracts a large number of domestic and foreign tourists.

"This year all the resorts and hotels in the district are fully reserved. Tourists are now looking for getting accommodation in home stays," Praveen P.P., the information officer at the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC), told IANS.

"In Wayanad, tourist arrival peaks during November to February. This year till December, the district recorded 20 percent increase in the arrivals," Praveen said.

Last financial year (2006-07), Wayanad received a total of 470,000 tourists, a large majority of which are domestic tourists.

"But the actual number far exceeds this as we don't have the statistics of those visiting the famous Thirunelli temple, which is considerable, and tourists coming to the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary," he said.

After the IT boom, Wayanad started attracting IT professionals from Bangalore. The district borders Karnataka and is only six hours by road to the metro.

"The district is now a favourite weekend tourist destination. Large numbers of IT professionals are flocking to the district," said K. Raveendran, owner of Pranavam Homestay at Pozhuthana near here.

Raveendran's facility is meant only for foreign tourists, who are interested in local culture and local cuisines.

"Reservation by tourists is made much in advance. Now, my Home stay is booked till February 20," says Raveendran.

According to DTPC, the district is witnessing a sharp increase in the rate of foreign tourist arrivals.

However, the resort owners disagree.

"Foreign tourist arrivals to Kerala dipped this year. This is reflected in Wayanad also. It may be due to the Chikungunya outbreak in the state. It gave us a bad image," said Vancheeswaran K.R., managing partner of Wynberg Resorts at Thrikkaipetta, 12 km from here.

Vancheeswaran is also the secretary of Wayanad Tourism Organisation.

"Tourism season starts in September. However, this year it got delayed and started in October as rains continued beyond the normal season. Now, the tourist arrivals have really picked up. My resort is fully booked till January 7," he said.

Vancheeswaran has 11 dwellings for tourists - two of them are treetop cottages.

"A good number of tourists are IT professionals, who come with their families. Although the season starts much earlier, we host corporate events during the February-March period," he added.

A video from You Tube featuring Wayand Wildlife......

Pushkar Camel Festival

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What to Expect at the World's Largest Camel Fair.....

It's possible to buy a decent camel for around $500 in India, and there's no better place to make a selection than at the Pushkar camel festival.

Indians refer to a fair or festival as a ‘mela’. However, the words more likely to be at the forefront of a westerner’s mind are mayhem and madness. A perfect example of this is the world’s largest camel fair, held every year in Pushkar during the Hindu lunar month of Kartika (which usually falls sometime in November).

The population of Pushkar is normally a relatively tiny 15,000 people. However this explodes to over 200,000 people and 50,000 camels during the festival. At this time, the camels and their owners arrive from all directions and take up residence in makeshift tents in the neighbouring desert. They’re accompanied by the many visiting Indian families who camp out indiscriminately in the open at the edge of the town.

The Legend of Pushkar
Pushkar is an idyllic town in the middle of India's Rajasthan desert. It's full of whitewashed buildings, and is surrounded by hills on three sides and sand dunes on the other. The main feature of Pushkar is its lake. According to Hindu legend, it was made from a lotus flower dropped by Lord Brahma, the Creator, when looking for a place to perform a holy ritual on a full moon night.

Pilgrims who bathe in the lake’s waters believe they will be absolved of their sins. The four days between Kartika Shukla Ekadashi (the eleventh day of Kartika) and Kartika Purnima (the Kartika full moon) are viewed as being the most auspicious. Those who bathe on the day of the full moon are said to receive special blessings. Most of the camel action takes place over the 5 days leading up to the official start of the camel fair on Kartika Shukla Ekadashi, after which time the focus shifts to heightened religious celebrations.

Arriving in Pushkar
Arrival in Pushkar is either by taxi or heaving, dilapidated local bus from Ajmer – 11 kilometres away through the hills. Eager luggage-wallahs immediately assail disembarking tourists and quickly load their bags on to hand drawn carts, which they proceed to pull through the mazes of dusty winding streets to a motley assortment of hotels. Meanwhile, luggage owners follow behind in a daze, absorbed by the sight around them.

The streets are lined with mobile chai (tea) vendors, and hawkers selling everything from clothes and jewellery to decorative items and handicrafts. Everywhere is a dazzling display of brightly coloured turbans, scarves and sarees worn by the Indian people for the festive occasion. One can’t help but be mesmerised.

What to See at the Camel Festival
The scene of the camel fair is just as striking. The sand dunes appeared infested with camels as far as the eyes can see. These camels are dressed up, paraded, entered into beauty contests, raced, and of course traded. Some camels even have their hair shaved into patterns to help them stand out from the rest. Along with these peculiar and amusing activities, the crowds are entertained well into each evening by an array of musicians, magicians, dancers, acrobats, snake charmers and carousel rides. Anyone game enough to get close to the centre of these activities runs the risk of being suddenly pulled into the fanfare, encouraged by the frenzied clapping, singing and musical melodies of the other participants.

The Pushkar camel fair provides a fascinating insight into Indian culture and way of life, and will leave a deep imprint in your memory. It’s likely that you’ll return to you hotel room feeling quite overwhelmed but captivated by what you’ve seen and experienced. As you lay on your bed, in the distance you may be able to faintly hear chanting and the ringing of bells that accompany the ancient religious ceremonies, and you’ll know that you’re in the midst of something very special.

Accomodation on Indian Railways

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Most people find themselves becoming confused during the planning phase of their journey, as they attempt to make sense of the 4 or 5 different classes of accommodation available on long distance trains in India. This includes the general seated compartment, sleeper class, 3 tier air conditioned sleeper (3AC), 2 tier air conditioned sleeper (2AC), and 1st class air conditioned sleeper (1AC). Before booking your ticket, it's recommended that you give honest thought to your travelling and privacy requirements.

Many visitors feel compelled to travel sleeper class so that they can come into close contact with their idea of the 'real India'. The majority of India's large middle class population travels in sleeper class, and you'll encounter people from all walks of life. Keep in mind though that while a day spent in sleeper class can be entertaining, longer journeys can take their toll as a result of the constant heat, noise and dirt. If you don’t like being woken at 6am, then sleeper class isn’t for you.

The air conditioned carriages are much cleaner and more restful, however they distinctly lack the spirited nature of sleeper class. Their upper class occupants can be less than stimulating, although the relatively high standard of these people’s personal habits shouldn’t be under rated on long distance journeys. Since comfort levels are higher in the air conditioned compartments, passengers find less need to interact with eachother to distract themselves from their journey. There's also less interaction with the outside world, including food vendors at stations, as windows are sealed with tinted glass and are unable to be opened.

A good option that balances comfort and cost is 3AC. Carriages are laid out in the same manner as sleeper class, with 6 berths per compartment, but you get the added benefit of air conditioning. In 2AC, you'll also get privacy curtains and more room, with only 4 berths in each compartment. 1AC offers compartments for two, with lockable doors, for a cost comparable to that of flying.

For those wanting some extra personal space, but without the extravagance of 1AC, a side berth in one of the other classes is recommended. These berths are located outside each compartment, along the aisle. However, if you're taller than around 175cm you might yourself a bit cramped, as these berths are enclosed on both ends and are shorter than the ones inside the compartments. Where possible, it’s also advisable to book an upper berth. You won't have to share it with anyone, whereas the lower berths act as seats for everyone during the day.

Travel in the general seated compartment is best avoided on long journeys. This is the only carriage on the train where reservations aren't requried. Most seats are simply wooden benches, although plastic padded benches may be found on some trains. It's in this compartment that any visions you may have of people hanging out the doors of Indian trains will become a reality, as overcrowding is taken to new levels.

There's no doubt that each type of compartment offers a certain, unique type of experience. If you choose the right level of accomodation to suit your requirements, its likely that you'll have an enchanting trip on a railway system that's so essential to Indian life.

A High Walk Through Rupshu and Changthang

2008-01-04T15:32:00.000+05:30

Covering an area of about 60,000 square kilometers and ranging in elevation from 2,600 meters to 7,670 meters, Ladakh is sandwiched between two huge mountain systems: the Karakorams to the north and the Himalayas to the south. Ladakh is the Trans-Himalayan region, the region of impact when the Indian subcontinent collided with the rest of Asia 50 million years ago.

One of the several geographic regions formed as a result of this impact is the Rupshu, a dry, high-altitude plateau lying southeast of Ladakh. It forms part of the larger area of Changthang, which spreads east into Tibet for about 1,500 kilometers and whose landscape is characterized by rolling mountains, vast plains and massive brackish lakes. It is an area which, due to its remoteness and proximity to Tibet, retained much of the character of the Tibetan way of life, with regular trade and barter continuing and trade routes being utilized as they were since they were first discovered. These routes offer exciting avenues for anybody game for a high-altitude adventure and an appetite for some of the most incredible sights in this far-flung corner of the sub-continent.

The Border Roads Organization does a great job linking the frontiers of the country with their masterful artistry of making motorable lanes out of sheer rock. This appreciable effort of theirs is resented by only a few who, aided by sheer wanderlust, make the effort to travel to places not yet encroached by the bulldozer. Some trails, however, remain as pristine as they were when the first man walked them, and now, thanks to the roads, these routes are more accessible, even to the office busybee.

One such route connects the Spiti valley with Ladakhi Changthang, and is still used as the main trail for trade and travel in these areas. The Parang La (pass), at 5,600 meters, forms the source of the Pare Chu river, an amazing river system which rises to the north of the Parang La, traveling 30 kilometers eastwards and turning sharply south to enter Tibet. After flowing 85 kilometers through the plateau, it changes its course westerly to re-enter India near its confluence with the Spiti river at Sumdo, on the Hindustan Tibet road, 33 kilometers before reaching Tabo.

The Parang La is the traditional trade route between the people of Spiti, Changthang and Tibet. From Spiti, the trail begins in the high-altitude meadows of Kibber (14,000 feet), a two-hour drive from Kaza, the district headquarters of Spiti. Kaza is also the venue of the Ladarcha, an annual cultural fair which was initially a trading festival that took place in the surrounding higher meadows. Kibber is the breeding ground of the famous Spiti horses and also known to be snow leopard country.

Kibber has an ancient monastery worth a visit, and is also mentioned in most guidebooks as the highest motorable village, but now the road has apparently reached Tashigang, 18 kilometers uphill. On the way from Kaza to Kibber, one passes Kye village, which prides itself on being home to the largest monastery in Spiti, the Kye gompa is well worth a visit. From Kibber, which is also the roadhead on the Spiti side of events, the trail descends the scenic Kibber gorge and climbs to village Dumla, a small green bowl arriving in time for a last cup of butter tea for the next ten days. Dumla happens to be the last inhabitation till Karzog, more than one week's walk away.

A stiff climb above Dumla is rewarded with views of Parilungbi (Lingti valley) and Shilla, and the first day's camp is at Thaltak meadow below a small pass crossing the Thaltak La. Shilla (6,132 meters) remained an altitude record for 47 years after it was climbed in 1860 by a khalasi of the Survey of India. Inaccurate height computation contributed to the record until a modern survey reduced it by nearly 3,000 feet.

An early morning's start the next day begins with a gut-wrenching descent to Rongchu nalla, followed by a climb upstream for an hour. The actual climb towards the Parang La begins now with a climb on scree for nearly four hours. Camp at Bongrochen, meaning "donkey's corpse," does not come too soon as the altitude begins to take its toll on the system and the going, however exciting, does get a bit slow.

The Spiti side of the divide is extremely dry and sunburnt, but with hardly any snow conditions to be encountered. All along the route, one is held captive by the deep gorges and wind-battered rock formations, which characterize the first few days towards the Parang La. Bongrochen, the last camp before crossing the Parang La from the Spiti side, is in a bowl surrounded by high mountains on either side, and the Parang La is nowhere in sight.

An early start is mandatory the next morning, as the other side of the pass has heavy snow conditions. If one is lucky, a herd of sheep, who cross the pass with packs of barley strapped on to each of them, provide good company. The final gradient to the pass is extremely steep, and it takes a good couple of hours to finally haul oneself over the top. But once there, a complete change of terrain more than compensates for the lifetime it takes to climb over this 18,500-foot-high crossing. The pass on the Pare Chu side is snow-clad, and a broad valley greets you looking down towards the broad flood plain of the river.

There are a few well-camouflaged deep crevasses directly below the pass, which invariably claim a few sheep each year as they are shepherded over the "la." Spiti horses are taken over to the Changthang side, where they are sold to the Changpas (nomads of Changthang) for money or pashmina in return. Sticking to the right of the pass on the descent, one crosses the Pare Chu at the mouth of the glacier over a not-so-stable snow bridge. The horses need to be coaxed here, as they invariably show a little reluctance while crossing what with the river raging a few feet below.

The advantage of starting this trip from Spiti is that, after the first few days of continuous ascent, the descent is fairly continuous for the next few days, though not entirely effortless, making the walk really enjoyable. Camp is set a few kilometers below the mouth of the river at Dak Karzong, a green meadow on the banks of the Pare Chu. A chance meeting with a traveler from Karzog is not ruled out, though they usually are in more of a hurry, going the entire distance in four days.

The river begins to divide itself over several channels now, and the valley is nearly a kilometer and a half wide. Crossing its many channels is part of the day's work as we work our way downstream. The next two days are spent walking along the river through green meadows and wind formations (called "kathpa boozae") not very many people have seen to date.

A week after having left Kibber, we reach the confluence of the Pare Chu with the Phirtse Phu at Norbu Sumdo. A river crossing here brings one to an almost incredible change of landscape as we walk north towards the Rupshu plains of Changthang. Camp for the night is at Chumik Shilale, a parrot-green meadow set in wide green plains and low, rolling, sun-kissed hills. From now on, spotting the Changthang wolf remains a very good possibility.

At Norbu Sumdo, we part company with the Pare Chu, which flows south from the confluence to flow into Tibet, past Chumur, India's last outpost along its border with Tibet. Three years ago, I had visited Chumur as part of the first successful attempt to reach the base and make an attempt on Gya (6,794 meters), lying on the tri-junction of Tibet, J&K and Himachal Pradesh. Gya is also the highest mountain in Himachal Pradesh, a wonderfully elusive mountain and one of the finest rock-climbing challenges left. It had initially baffled a number of good-sized expeditions that tried to reach its base. Gya, or Kalcham Gyalmo, forms a grand backdrop as one walks away from Norbu Sumdo towards Karzog, remaining visible until we leave Karzog.

A few kilometers from Chumik Shilale lies Kiangdom, named after the abundance of Kiangs, the Tibetan wild ass found here. The walk toward Tso Moriri over a scree slope, with the lake and its delta visible, sends the adrenalin levels up as the enormity of the lake sinks in. Kiangdom lies at the southern edge of the Tso Moriri (15,000 feet), a high-altitude lake 27 kilometerss long and nearly 8 kilometers wide. This lake is the breeding ground for the bar-headed goose, the black-necked crane and the Brahminy duck.

Kiangdom needs to be visited in order to realize the immense beauty of this area, opened only in1994 to visitors.
The trail goes along the Tso Moriri until we reach Karzog, a permanent settlement and also the roadhead. The lake makes a fitting finale to a trek through landscape seemingly out of a picture postcard. A day or two spent here is a great idea, since it allows visitors to take in the sights and sounds of the Buddhist way of life. Another worthwhile visit is to one of the Changpa settlements in a bowl high above Karzog, where this hardy people lives in yak-skin tents and breeds yaks and pashmina, one of the trade items to go over these high passes.

A four-hour drive from the Tso, passing through equally scenic terrain, lies Tsokar, a salt lake which was once the source of nearly all of Ladakh's salt supply. The road climbs away from Karzog to Kiagar Tso, a smaller lake above Tso Moriri. According to locals, Kiagar Tso was part of the Tso Moriri until both receded. The motorable road passes through hot sulphur springs at Puga, which is well known for its healing powers, as several locals and people from Leh will gladly testify.

The dusty road climbs on to Polo Gonka, a small pass before the descent to the huge bowl of Tsokar. Large salt mounds litter the lake, and the water is expectedly extremely uncomfortable to taste. There is one convenient spot to camp next to a fresh water source on the banks of Tsokar. It is not surprising to see Kiangs run along and overtake the vehicle one is traveling in.

On the opposite bank from the campsite is the village of Tugche, which boasts of a massive wolf trap and an ancient monastery. From the monastery, one can see the watermarks of the lake, which at one time was nearly 200 to 300 feet higher than what it has presently receded to.

Four kilometers from Tsokar, one meets the main Manali-Leh highway before the climb to Taglang La, the world's second-highest motorable pass. A comfortable four-hour drive away lies Leh, the capital of Ladakh, the highest and largest district in the country. It's a fitting end to having experienced firsthand the enormous scale and the rugged, weather-beaten beauty of a region that remains much of a magical mystery and, for some of us, the end of a rainbow.

GETTING THERE
From Delhi: Fly/ Drive to Kullu. Drive on to Manali. Cross the Rohtang and take diversion at Gramphoo to Chattru. Continue on to Spiti via Batal, Kunzum La, Losar and Kaza. Kibber is two hours from Kaza.

Hire a jeep from Manali to Kibber. For self-driven vehicles, high suspension a must. A longer drive from Shimla to Kibber via Rampur, Kalpa, Tabo and Kaza is also a possibility.

SEASON
July to September (depending on the opening of the higher passes)

TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS
Permits for foreigners (minimum 04) required to be processed at DC Office, Kaza. Permits for Tso Moriri to be arranged to reach Karzog.
Good acclimatization a must for this trip. Take at least three overnight stops between Manali and Kibber.
Making arrangements through a reputed tour operator who will make all permit/transport arrangements, besides taking care of all trekking logistics, is recommended. Make sure you meet your trekking guide before you leave.

WHERE TO STAY
PWD guest house at Chattru/ Set up your own Camp.
PWD guest house at Losar/ Set up your own Camp.
Kaza: Hotel Sakya's Abode. Clean rooms with food available.
Kibber: Hotel Parang La. Setting up camp recommended.
Karzog - Set up your own camp.

GETTING OUT
Arrange transport to meet at Karzog for drive to Leh.
Fly Leh to Delhi.

DISTANCES
Delhi-Manali (6,700 feet): 570kms
Manali-Chattru (11,670 feet): 79kms
Chattru-Losar (13,350 feet): 62kms
Losar-Kaza (11,800 feet): 58kms
Karzog-Leh (11,500 feet): 226kms

Adventure Sports in Kullu Region

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Kullu terrain is almost mountainous. To popularise the mountaineering and allied sports the Mountaineering Institute second of its kind in the country was established at Chadhiari near the hot springs of Vashist Village in September, 1961. The first training course conducted by the Institute was in Nov-Dev, 1961 and the Institute was known as Western Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (WHMI), with the coming up of its own complex in the year 1976. The Institute was shifted to present location, Aleo Bihal, Manali and since then it is know as the Department of Mountaineering and Allied Sports.

Training in snow skiing was started in early 1970 at Solang Nala Ski-slopes. High Altitude Trekking was also started in 1970 and thereafter in order to conduct adventure and rock-climbing, specific courses were introduced. The Institute also imparts mountaineering and rescue training to the people living in the tribal area. For this us pose two mountaineering sub-centres were established at Jispa in Lahaul & Spiti district and Bharmaur in Chamba district in the year 1979. In order to help people to cross over Rohtang Pass to Lahaul & Spiti or Manali during winter months, the Directorate sets-up rescue posts at Marhi and Koksar from 15th November to 31st December and 1st March to 15ht May.

For trainees arrangement of boarding and lodging is made by the institution. The trekkers can also hire the needed equipments or articles from the institution.

Angling
Trout fish is found in large quantity in river Beas and its tributaries Parvati, Sainj, Trithan, Manikaran and Katrain areas. So fishing in Kullu district is an anglers paradise and this sport is catching up day by day. Tirthan river is particularly rich in brown trout fish where natural breeding of the fish takes place. The license for angling can be obtained from Fisheries Office, Kullu, Patlikulh, Larji & Banjar or from Tourist Office, Kullu and Manali. The Department of Fisheries are also organising angling tournament every year in April and in Sept-October.

Ideal trout beasts: River Beas (Katrain to Manali, 18 Km), Trithan Stream (Larji to Nagani, 20 Km), Sainj Stream (Larji to Ropa, 22 Km), Lambadug Stream (Barot to Lahoradi, 6 Km), Uhi Stream (Barot to Kothikad, 10 Km) and Sangla Bridge to Farm (5 Km).

Fishing Rates: Trout Waters - Rod & Lines: Rs.100/- per day. General Waters - Rod & Lines: Rs.40/- per day.
Close Season: Trout Water: From November to Las day of February each year. General Waters: From 1st June to 31 July each year.

Trekking
Kullu valley provides easiest as well as adventurous trekking paths to trekking lovers. Most of the routes pass though rugged and unspoiled beautiful valleys with aws inspiring glens, mossy meadows, deep forests inter woven by rushing streams and running brooks. Kullu-Manali valleys are full of real mountains and give comparatively easy access to them.

April to mid June and mid September to mid October is the best season for trekking. Tourist Development Corporation of Himachal Pradesh in collaboration with Department of Mountaineering and Allied Sports, Manali and some other agencies arrange trekking expeditions. The charges include hiring of equipment, porters, transportations, meals and medical facilities and optionally, the approved high altitude guides and porters can also be hired. The accommodation in HPPWD-Rest Houses or Forest Rest House can be arranged through XEN or SE, PWD and Divisional Forest Office (DFO) of that area.

White Water Rafting
White water rafting is a thrilling as well as adventurous sports. In Kullu, Badah to Jhiri is a nine kilometer long down stream journey path. It takes rafters four hours to reach the destination. The water of river Beas is fast and water waves are dancing, giving the rafters an exciting experience. Rafting is available only in the period of May to July, that is summer only. Professional companies from private sectors make the necessary equipments & gears available to rafters. Each rafter is provided with a life jacket and a helmet. They are expected to wear a specific dress. An experienced guide and helper is also provided to the rafters.

Skiing
Skiing is possible in winter season (mid Dec to end of June) only when there is a thick layer of snow on the hills. It this view, the Solang Nala is the best consideration for skiing. The Mountaineering Institute, Manali is imparting training in skiing along with its other activities and training courses. Some professional skiers are also conducting the skiing courses. Skiing tournaments are also organised at national and international level. Bhrigu peaks and slopes near Hamta are perhaps the best slopes in the world for skiing. Winter skiing is organised at Solang whereas in summer, skiing is organised at Rohtang slopes.

Heli-Skiing
It is a new sport in India but is picking up in Manali. The helli skiers are dropped on mountains and ridges as high as 5500 mt by a helicopter. The skiers are in group of three equipped with a guide for safety. It also removes the pressure on less experienced or learners. This sport requires enough snow hence it is possible in the peak winter season. Private companies provide packages for heli-skiing.

Para Gliding
This sport too is in its initial stage but gaining popularity in Kullu. It is very thrilling sport. The high hills are natural launching sites for para gliding. Bhaikhali (9 km from Kullu, easily approachable by vehicle), Bijli Mahadev and Slang slopes are ideal locations for para-gliding. The best season for this sport is May-June and Sept-Oct. At Manali, the facility of seven days training course is available. Bijli Mahadev is approachable by own vehicle via Naggar or upto Chansari on vehical and three km on foot, with landing sites are both Dhalpur ground and Bhunter Airport.

History of Indian Railways

2007-12-27T15:02:00.000+05:30

Indian Railways has a total state monopoly on India's rail transport. It is one of the largest and busiest rail networks in the world, transporting sixteen million passengers and more than one million tonnes of freight daily. IR is the world's largest commercial or utility employer, with more than 1.6 million employees. The railways traverse the length and breadth of the country; the routes cover a total length of 63,140 km (39,233 miles). As of 2002, IR owned a total of 216,717 wagons, 39,263 coaches and 7,739 locomotives and ran a total of 14,444 trains daily, including about 8,702 passenger trains. Railways were first introduced to India in 1853. By 1947, the year of India's independence, there were forty-two rail systems. In 1951 the systems were nationalized as one unit, becoming one of the largest networks in the world. Indian Railways operates both long distance and suburban rail systems.

A plan for a rail system in India was first put forward in 1832, but no further steps were taken for more than a decade. In 1844, the Governor-General of India Lord Hardinge allowed private entrepreneurs to set up a rail system in India. Two new railway companies were created and the East India Company was asked to assist them. Interest from investors in the UK led to the rapid creation of a rail system over the next few years. The first train in India became operational on 22 December 1851, and was used for the hauling of construction material in Roorkee. A year and a half later, on 16 April 1853, the first passenger train service was inaugurated between Bori Bunder, Bombay and Thane. Covering a distance of 34 km (21 miles), it was hauled by three locomotives, Sahib, Sindh and Sultan. This was the formal birth of railways in India.

The British government encouraged new railway companies backed by private investors under a scheme that would guarantee an annual return of five percent during the initial years of operation. Once established, the company would be transferred to the government, with the original company retaining operational control. The route mileage of this network was about 14,500 km (9,000 miles) by 1880, mostly radiating inward from the three major port cities of Bombay (Mumbai), Madras (Chennai) and Calcutta ( Kolkata). By 1895, India had started building its own locomotives, and in 1896 sent engineers and locomotives to help build the Uganda Railway.

Soon various independent kingdoms built their own rail systems and the network spread to the regions that became the modern-day states of Assam, Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh. A Railway Board was constituted in 1901, but decision-making power was retained by the Viceroy, Lord Curzon. The Railway Board operated under aegis of the Department of Commerce and Industry and had three members: a government railway official serving as chairman, a railway manager from England and an agent of one of the company railways. For the first time in its history, the Railways began to make a tidy profit. In 1907, almost all the rail companies were taken over by the government.

The following year, the first electric locomotive appeared. With the arrival of the First World War, the railways were used to meet the needs of the British outside India. By the end of the First World War, the railways had suffered immensely and were in a poor state. The government took over the management of the Railways and removed the link between the financing of the Railways and other governmental revenues in 1920, a practice that continues to date with a separate railway budget.

The Second World War severely crippled the railways as trains were diverted to the Middle East, and the railway workshops were converted into munitions workshops. At the time of independence in 1947, a large portion of the railways went to the then newly formed Pakistan. A total of forty-two separate railway systems, including thirty-two lines owned by the former Indian princely states, were amalgamated as a single unit which was christened as the Indian Railways.

The existing rail networks were abandoned in favour of zones in 1951 and a total of six zones came into being in 1952. As the economy of India improved, almost all railway production units were indigenised. By 1985, steam locomotives were phased out in favour of diesel and electric locomotives. The entire railway reservation system was streamlined with computerisation in 1995.

source: wikipedia

Few things not to miss during India tour

2007-12-05T16:04:00.000+05:30

It's not possible to see everything India has to offer in one trip, and we don't suggest you try. What follows is a selective taste of the country's highlights: outstanding buildings, natural wonders, spectacular festivals and unforgettable journeys. They're arranged in five colour-coded categories, which you can browse through to find the very best things to see and experience.

I start with oen of my favourite palce : The Manali-Leh Highway

Since it opened to foreign tourists in 1989, the famous Manali-Leh highway has replaced the old Srinagar-Kargil route as the most popular approach to Ladakh. In summer, a stream of vehicles set off from the Kullu Valley to travel along the second-highest road in the world, which reaches a dizzying altitude of 5328m. Its surface varies wildly from fairly smooth asphalt through potholes of differing depths to dirt tracks sliced by glacial streams, traversing a starkly beautiful lunar wilderness. Depending on road conditions, the 485-kilometre journey can take anything from twenty-six to thirty hours. Bus drivers cover more distance on the first day than the second, stopping for a short and chilly night in one of the overpriced tent camps along the route. These, however, are few and far between after September 15, when the highway officially closes; in practice, all this means is that the Indian government won't airlift you out if you get trapped in snow, and consequently some companies run regardless until the passes become blocked in mid to late October.

Manali to Keylong
Once out of Manali, the road begins its long ascent of the Rohtang Pass (3978m). Buses pull in for breakfast 17km before the pass at a row of makeshift dhabas at Marhi (3360m). Though not all that high by Himalayan standards, the pass itself is one of the most treacherous in the region and every year Gaddis and mountaineers are caught unawares by sudden weather changes - hence Rohtang's name, which literally means "piles of dead bodies". The road descends from Rohtang to the floor of the Chandra Valley, finally reaching the river at Koksar, little more than a scruffy collection of chai stalls with a checkpoint where you have to enter passport details in a ledger - one of many such stops on the road to Leh. The next few hours are among the most memorable on the entire trip. Bus seats on the left are best, as the road runs across the northern slopes of the valley through the first Buddhist settlements, hemmed in by towering peaks and hanging glaciers towards Keylong.

Keylong to Sarchu Serai
Beyond Keylong, the Bhaga Valley broadens, but its bare sides support very few villages. By the time you reach Darcha, a lonely cluster of dry-stone huts and dingy tent camps, the landscape is utterly denuded. All buses stop here for passengers to grab a hot bowl of Tibetan thukpa from a wayside dhaba. There's little else to do in Darcha, though the Shingo La trailhead - the main trekking route north to Zanskar - is on the outskirts. If you are not on one of the through Manali-Leh buses, you're better off stopping at JISPA 7km south, a pleasant little hamlet with ample camping along the river as well as the upmarket Hotel Jispa (Telephone01900/233203; Rs1000-1500), whose breakfasts are legendary among passing cycle tourists; they also have dorm beds for Rs200. One kilometre before the Jispa, the Mountaineering Institute arranges mountaineering and rescue courses in summer through tour agencies in Manali, and may also provide accommodation.From Darcha, the road climbs steadily northeast to the Baralacha La pass. On the other side, buses stop for the night at SARCHU SERAI, where HPTDC's Tent Camp (Rs300-500), a rather ordinary affair, serves steaming plates of rice, dhal and veg, as do a handful of similarly priced dhabas nearby. There are several more expensive camps dotted along the road charging up to Rs800 per person including food. Note that Sarchu Serai is 2500m higher than Manali, and travellers coming straight from Manali might suffer from the higher altitude here.

Sarchu Serai to Taglang La
Sarchu Serai packs up for the season from September 15. Northbound buses thereafter press on over Lachuglang La (5019m), the second highest pass on the highway, to the tent camp at PANG (4500m), which stays open longer. Unfortunately, this means that the drive through one of the most dramatic stretches of the route, through an incredible canyon, is in darkness. North of Pang, the road heads up to the fourth and final pass, the Taglang La, a dizzying 5360m, the highest point on the Manali-Leh highway. Drivers pull in for a quick spin of the prayer wheels and a brief photo session alongside the sign exclaiming "Unbelievable! Is not it?". Staring north beyond the multicoloured tangle of prayer flags across Ladakh to the Karakoram Range, just visible on the horizon, you may well agree.

Taglang La to Leh
From Taglang La, 40km of switchbacks deliver you from the windswept pass through a purple-hued gorge to the neat, kidney-shaped barley fields and the white chortens of Ladakhi villages. At Upshi, the road reaches the dramatic Indus Valley, tracing the Indus River past slender poplars, sprawling army camps and ancient monasteries. Traffic builds as you approach Choglamsar, then climb the final dusty kilometres to Leh - past the world's highest golf course - through the modern outskirts to the haberdashers, canny traders and wrinkled apricot-sellers of Leh's Main Bazaar.

List of little things you can do to help the environment

2007-11-28T13:05:00.000+05:30

Conserving our environment may not always be on the forefront of our thoughts. If it isn't, here are some simple ways to help the environment without making drastic life changes. It is so easy to go about our daily life never giving a second thought to that styrofoam cup we just threw out that held our morning cup of coffee or without thinking about the fact that our gas-guzzling SUV that could easily hold eight people has never seated more than two people at a time in the two years we've owned it. Very few people can honestly say that they are concerned about our environment and the way it deteriorates on a daily basis. We are so concerned with paying our bills and living for the moment that we feel we don't have enough time to worry about conserving. The fact of the matter is that we can do quite a bit for the environment and its conservation just by changing the little things we do on a daily basis. We don't have to rush out and buy the newest hybrid car or start growing our own vegetable garden in our back yard to help the environment. We simply need to make a few small changes and teach those changes to those around us and we will help the environment in a big way.

* If you have heard it once, you have heard it a million times: recycle. If your neighborhood does not currently participate in a recycling program, find a local organization that does and take your recyclable items there. Perhaps you can begin a letter-writing campaign to your local homeowner's association to start a recycling program in your own neighborhood.

* You know those times your printer spits out a blank sheet or an extra sheet? You usually crumple them up and throw them away, right? Instead of doing that, put those scrap papers into a scrap tray which you can use to write to-do lists and grocery lists or to use in your children's school projects.

* When you pack your lunch or your kid's lunch, chances are you use those resealable plastic baggies. Instead of throwing them out when they've been used to haul a sandwich, bring them back home and rinse them out. You can easily reuse them for your next lunch.

* It is so easy to go to the grocery store and buy plastic cutlery and styrofoam plates to throw away after they've been used. Don't. It only takes a little extra time to use your normal dishes and wash them.

* If you love subscribing to different magazines and have a pile of read magazines just sitting in a rack, instead of trashing them, take them to your office and let others read them or donate them to Goodwill or the Salvation Army. If you have a group of friends who have different magazine subscriptions, instead of ordering the magazine yourself, trade the magazines around. Let your friends borrow your magazines and borrow theirs.

* When getting dressed each day and taking our daily shower, we waste so much money just by letting the water run as we soap up or shave our legs. Get a water conservation shower head that allows you to easily turn off the water as you perform these shower chores.

* On the same note, turn off the water while you are brushing your teeth or washing your face instead of letting it run as you lather up.

* While it may be easier to use paper towels which you can throw away after using, use kitchen towels or cloth napkins instead. It is much better to use water to wash these items than to fill our landfill with tons of paper towels!

* Instead of throwing out those plastic tubs we get from butter/margarine, sour cream, yogurt and whipped cream, reuse these tubs for leftovers.

* If your husband or wife works someplace that is on the way to your own place of work, carpool. Shift your schedules around just a few minutes each day so you can ride in together and save gas AND money.

* Instead of driving your car around the block to check your mail, ride your bike or walk and get some fresh air.

Online travel bookings are set to boom in India

2007-11-21T16:55:00.000+05:30

Online travel bookings are set to boom with the industry doubling its revenues in less than 12 months. Industry sources say that the $460 million Indian online-travel industry is slated to become $1-billion industry by the end of this year and $2 billion by end of 2008.

On one hand, global players like Washington-based Expedia and Texas- based travel portal Travelocity are entering the Indian market, on the other hand, Indian players are looking at tie-ups. For instance, Indiatimes.com travel will soon enter into a revenue-sharing arrangement with a global player to increase its inventory of holiday packages and hotels. To spice up the scene, Tripmela, which publishes top 10 deals available across Indian travel portals every week, is also active in the area. It is in talks with various Indian travel portals for an investment of around $1 million.

To capture the growing potential of online travel market, Travelocity will start its India-focussed website in February. Tripmela, US-based website, targeting Indian market, is also eyeing Indian travel. “Indian online travel market has great potential which we want to capture ,”says Jared Blank, CEO, Tripmela.com.

The online travel market is at present dominated by players such as indiatimes.com, makemytrip.com, yatra.com and travelguru.com. Indiatimes travel will be tying up with a global online travel portal soon. “The tie-up will help us in accessing their inventory of hotels and packages and will help them in getting more customers,” Sharat Dhall, e-commerce head, Indiatimes.com told ET.

Yatra.com, which has Reliance Capital, Television Eighteen and Norwest Venture Partners as its investors, is also open to the idea of tying up with a domestic travel portal. “A tie-up can get us new customer segment, though currently we are looking at domestic players only. Next six months will see the online travel space getting very aggressive and competitive,” says Dhruv Shringi, co-founder, Yatra.com. The company’s revenue projection for the year ending December 2007, is $100 million.

Many small players till 2006 like IndiaHotelReview.com are gaining great business and creating niche platforms. "Travel in India has a great potential, Big global travel gaints are now realising the scope in india. We in IndiaHotelReview.com are in the business for our specialization in budget travel. The huge chunk of our society are middle class and they dont 5 star luxury suites to spent their holiday. They just need value for money holidays. We are offering vacation packages starting from as low as Rs.2199 in a hotspot like kerala. The market potential is great as long as you provide value for money travel solutions," says Ankit Rastogi, Vice President, IndiaHotelReview.com.

According to industry heads, the online travel space in India is registering almost a 100% growth year-on-year. “The rapidly growing online travel space will see lot of consolidations along with expansions and new entrants,” says Sachin Bhatia, co-founder, makemytrip.com. The portal’s expects a revenue of $121 million this fiscal.

Tie-ups, expansion, consolidations and a lot more - all to woo the Indian travellers seem to the new motto for the travel portals. “Travellers will surely get great deals online this year with increased competition among players,” says Ashwin Damera, CEO, Travelguru.com. The website’s is expecting a turnover of $25 million this fiscal.

The Indian travel & tourism (T&T) industry has been ranked as the second fastest growing T&T economy, Internet has crossed 25 million mark and e-commerce sales are likely to touch Rs 1080 crores by end of 2006.

source: economic times

Varkala's exotic white sands

2007-11-19T11:46:00.000+05:30

Long renowned by Hindus as a place of pilgrimage, VARKALA, 54km northwest of Thiruvananthapuram, with its beautiful sands and cliffs, is a considerably more appealing beach destination these days than Kovalam. Centred on a clifftop row of budget guesthouses and palm-thatch cafés, the tourist scene is somewhat less full on, although the arrival in recent years of the first charter groups and luxury hotels may well be the harbinger of full-scale development and building inland and at both ends is already proceeding apace. The best time to visit is from October to early March; during the monsoons the beach is virtually unusable.

Known in Malayalam as Papa Nashini ("sin destroyer"), Varkala's beautiful white-sand Papanasam beach is backed by sheer red-laterite cliffs and drenched by rolling waves off the Arabian Sea. It's imposingly scenic and still a relatively peaceful place to soak up the sun, though the "hello pineapple" hawkers can irritate at first. Bear in mind that the town is quite conservative and nudity, or topless bathing for women, are not acceptable. The expanding string of chilled travellers' cafés, hotels and souvenir shops of the clifftop area feels a world apart from the village a short way inland. The beach is reachable via several sets of very steep sandy steps cut into the cliffs from the beach, as well as along a gentler path up starting behind the Marine Palace restaurant, or the metalled road from the village. Beware that the rope cordoning off the precipitous cliff edge is flimsy and actually extends beyond the edge in places where it has crumbled. Two yoga schools on North Clifftop, the Scientific School of Yoga & Massage and the Progressive School, offer Ayurvedic massage, and courses in meditation, massage and yoga; the former also runs the small Prakrithi Stores, selling honey, essential oils, herbs, handmade soaps and books.

Back in the village, the tank at Temple Junction is a hive of activity in the early mornings, when pilgrims come to bathe. Nearby is the Janardhana Swamy temple, said to be more than 2000 years old; devotees bring the ashes of departed relatives here for "final rest". Unlike many temples in Kerala, non-Hindus are welcome into the temple courtyard but not into the small shrines. At the eastern edge of the village, Sivagiri Hill harbours a traditional ashram that attracts pilgrim devotees of Shri Narayana Guru, a saint who died here in 1922. Born into the low ezhava caste, he fought orthodoxy with a philosophy of social reform ("one caste, one religion, one God for man") which included the consecration of temples with an open-door policy to all castes, and had a profound effect on the "upliftment" of the untouchables. Aimed unashamedly at the tourist market, the Varkala Cultural Centre (Telephone0470/608793), behind the Sunrise restaurant on North Clifftop, holds daily Kathakali and Bharatanatyam dance performances (make-up 5pm; performance 6.30-8pm; Rs150). It's a pleasant enough introduction to the art, especially if you're not going to make it to Kochi.

Accommodation
Varkala has a reasonable range of places to stay, from basic rooms with shared bathrooms to luxury resorts. The hotels along Beach Road are a good bet for late arrivals, but the places on the cliff-top have more inspiring views and vibes. Auto-rickshaws from the railway station and village tank go as far as the helipad or round the back to North Cliff, and on the way it's worth stopping to see if the wonderful Government Guest House has vacancies. Accommodation is tight in peak season (late Nov-Jan), when it's worth booking in advance.

Eating
Seafood lovers will enjoy Varkala's crop of clifftop café-restaurants, which dish up delicious baked, steamed or coconut-curried freshly caught shark, marlin or butterfish, as well as pasta, pizza and, if you're lucky, some Indian dishes too. Prices are fairly high: expect to pay around Rs50 for a simple veggie curry, Rs50-100 for pizza or pasta and over Rs100 for a fresh fish dish. Service, though, can be very slow here, but the superb location more than compensates, especially in the evenings when the sea twinkles with the lights of distant fishing boats.
Due to Kerala's antiquated licensing laws, which involve huge amounts of tax, a lot of cafés choose to serve beer discreetly; a teapot-full costs Rs75-90. The Taj Garden Retreat's licensed bar is nice but far more expensive.

Caffé Italiano Clifftop. Authentic Italian menu starring several varieties of pizza and pasta, and very good - but pricey - cappuccino.

Chillout Café North Clifftop. Simple thatched café with a limited menu but you can't beat the Rs40 breakfast specials.

Clafouti North Clifftop. Wonderful French bakery offering real croissants, pain aux raisins, baguettes and sweet pies, served at little tables under rustling palm trees. There's a range of moderately priced multi-cuisine options, including seafood dishes, and a set three-course evening menu (Rs150).

Funky Art Café North Clifftop. Trendiest place at the northern end, with a good musical vibe and a selection of Indian and Western fare.

Kerala Coffee House Clifftop. The funkiest place on this stretch of clifftop, pleasingly close to the edge, with great music, a friendly vibe and with a more extensive Indian menu than at many places hereabouts. Expect to pay Rs50-100 for a main course.

Sea Rock Clifftop, next to heliport. A fairly standard range of Indian and Continental cuisine. Plays good Indian music and shows films.

Sea Queen North Clifftop. Good views and plenty of fish, calamari, mussel and prawn dishes amongst the pizza and pasta - only the wine is missing. The adjacent Gnosh is a very similar alternative.

Shri Padmam Varkala village. This grubby-looking café might seem unpromising, but the veg food is cheap and delicious, and the location is very atmospheric, with a large rear terrace affording views of the temple tank.

Sunrise North Clifftop. Great-value Israeli, French, Italian, English and South Indian set breakfasts, good fruit juices and an evening Keralan speciality of fish with coconut and spices, steamed in a banana leaf and served with rice.

Arrival and information
Varkala's railway station, 2.5km east of the village, is served by express and mail trains from Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam (hourly; 45min), and most other Keralan towns on the main line. An auto-rickshaw to the beach costs around Rs40. Regular buses also run from Thiruvananthapuram's Thampanoor stand, and from Kollam (1hr 30min). A few go all the way to the beach, but most stop in the village centre, a five-minute auto-rickshaw ride away. If you can't get a direct bus, take any "superfast" or "limited stop" bus along the main NH-47 highway to Kallamballam, from where you can get a local bus to Varkala (15km), or an auto-rickshaw (Rs80-100) or taxi (Rs120-150).

The new Kerala Department of Tourism office (Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Telephone0470/260 2227, Websitewww.keralatourism.org) is in the same complex as its Government Guest House, behind the Taj Garden Retreat. You can rent two-wheelers everywhere in Varkala; the going rate for a scooter is Rs200-250, Rs300 for a motorbike and Rs350 for an Enfield. Travel agents may also try to sell you expensive "day-long" elephant rides in a nearby forest, which last an hour. The official government rate is Rs350 per hour per person, plus a taxi to the forest costing Rs50 return.
There are numerous places to change money on the clifftop and also at Nikhil's hotel on Beach Road. The many Internet centres in Varkala charge Rs35-40, with a minimum charge of Rs20.

If you are planning to visit Varkala, You can visit the Varkala Accommodation Guide. If you have any queries regarding Varkala, you can ask the Varkala City Expert and get answers within 24 hrs for free.

Taj Hotels and Silversea Cruises form Strategic Marketing Alliance

2007-11-17T17:03:00.001+05:30

Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces and Silversea Cruises have entered into a strategic joint marketing alliance to develop cross-promotional opportunities for both companies and harness each other’s strengths in their respective markets of dominance.

Mr. Manfredi Lefebvre D'Ovidio, Chairman, Silversea Cruises, commented on the alliance, “We are thrilled to have formed this alliance which comes at the most opportune time when India’s tourist industry is booming with increased travel by Indians to domestic and overseas destinations. By creating an alliance with a hotel company that has similar brand positioning and quality of customer service to our own, we offer our guests reciprocal privileges and benefits that reflect the style and quality of the Silversea product”

Silversea Cruises owns and operates four ships namely Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper. An innovator in the ultra-luxury segment, Silversea Cruises has become a favourite among modern affluent travellers with its all-inclusive pricing, and unmatched onboard product enhanced by partnerships with some of the world’s most respected luxury brands.

There are 19 hotels under the Taj Luxury Hotels portfolio. These include the legendary Taj Mahal Palace & Tower in Mumbai, Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur, Rambagh Palace in Jaipur, Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur and The Pierre in New York. Taj’s international portfolio consists of hotels spanning across regions like USA, UK, Australia, and Middle East and the Indian Ocean Rim. The Indian Ocean Rim has the Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, Maldives and Mauritius hotels.

Supporting and enhancing the representation of both partners in different parts of the world, the Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces - Silversea Cruises alliance will develop reciprocal and joint marketing activities that include undertaking of high profile joint marketing initiatives in designated market areas, developing and strengthening guest and client relationships through the affiliation and building brand awareness.

A New Generation of Pilgrims Hits India's Hippie Trail

2007-11-16T13:13:00.000+05:30

AS a crimson sun sets over the Arabian Sea behind her, the British singer Helen Jones leaps onto the stage of the oceanside Cafe Looda, grabs the microphone and unleashes a fiery anthem to the crowd amassed under the thatched roof of the open-air bar.

"There ain't nothing like this in the real world!" she sing-shouts, flinging her strawberry-blond hair as an Indian-British-Iranian backing band called Sattva (Sanskrit for "righteousness") kicks out a wailing funk jam. The beer-drinking throng, which appears to include European rock chicks with nose rings, goateed Israeli beatniks, Australian Green Party voters and a miscellaneous coterie of hipster backpackers in every imaginable type of sandal, nods in rhythm as the music resounds along Anjuna Beach.

"Come to Goa! Change your mind! Change your way!"

There ain't nothing like this in the real world. Come to Goa. Change your mind. Change your way. It's hard to imagine a better jingle for this sandy strip of India's western coast, a venerable Catholic-Hindu enclave where American hippies came to turn on, tune in and drop out in the late 1960's, and where globe-trotting spiritual seekers, party kids, flag-wavers of the counterculture and refugees from the real world have fled ever since.

It's a place where the palm trees bear a strange fruit —fliers for crystal therapy, Ayurvedic healing and rave parties — and every road seems to lead to an organic restaurant or massage clinic. At the yoga centers, postures are manipulated by top Indian and international instructors. In clubs, where trance music is the favored genre, D.J.'s carrying myriad passports provide the mix. Bodies receive needle-inked adornments at skin-art parlors; minds seek enlightenment, or at least expansion, at many meditation clinics.

Foreigners have flocked to tiny Goa — whose statewide population of 1.4 million is about one-tenth that of Mumbai, 300 miles north — ever since the Portuguese established a Spice Route colony there in the 1500's. The port flourished into one of Asia's most splendid cities before disease, vice and trade competition sank its fortunes. (Its remains are still visible in Old Goa, a Unesco World Heritage Site near the current state capital, Panjim.)

The Indian Army seized Goa from Portugal in 1961. But new colonists, the Haight-Ashbury crowd, soon showed up. Seduced by the same landscapes that appeared in Portuguese spyglasses centuries earlier — untouristed beaches, green jungle, dramatic cliffs — the former flower children traveled overland on "magic buses" from Europe and created in northern Goa a free-spirited, budget-friendly new world among the laid-back native Goans. The village of Anjuna became its wildly spinning center, with the quieter communities of Arambol and Vagator emerging as hemp-clad satellites. Since then, each generation of global nomads has carved its niche: New Age devotees of the 1980's; global ravers and electromusic pioneers of the 1990's (who initiated a tradition of all-night beach parties and made Goa trance music a worldwide phenomenon); and the yogaphiles and Burning Man groupies of today. The result is the globe's most enduring and constantly adapting tropical getaway for alternative living. When the summer monsoon blows past, the world's fringes unite. "Goa is a paradise that is accessible to one and all, in true Indian style: age, shape, color, size, planet," said Deepti Datt, a filmmaker who splits her time between Goa, Bombay and Southern California. Her restaurant and D.J. bar, Axirvaad (Sanskrit for "blessing"), was long a legend for its "lounge groove space temple" nights. (The restaurant, temporarily closed, will relocate in the Goan village of Tiracol next year.) Goa, she goes on, "is a happy playground for grown-ups."

On a Wednesday in November, a chain of minivan taxis and autorickshaws is disgorging bodies into Goa's most celebrated playground, the weekly Anjuna flea market. Started decades ago by Anjuna's hippie community (for whom it was a vital form of income), the humble local enterprise has mushroomed into a sprawling international affair. Many of the hundreds of closely packed stalls are now run by vociferous sari-clad Indian women in jingling jewelry, but the carnivalesque atmosphere has multiplied. "Look at my shop! Look at my shop!" they beckon, all smiles. "Sir! Sir! Sir! Sir! Sir!"

Navigating the come-ons is the latest wave of Anjuna's antiestablishment arrivals, from ponytailed Finnish rockers to cornrowed Iranian girls. Mixed within the throng is another curious species: middle-aged European package tourists. (The towns of Baga and Calangute, just south of Anjuna, have exploded into an Indian Cancún in recent years, troubling their northern neighbors.)

Stalls burst with carved Hindu deities, richly colored textiles and bins of pungent saffron and coriander. Indian women with syringes provide swirly henna tattoos. Indian men armed with thin sticks remove ear wax. A white-bearded Australian man passes out fliers for Reiki healing. "It's your pathway to God," he says.

Byzantium, William Butler Yeats famously said, was no place for old men. The market, with its hawkers proposing every conceivable good and service, is no place for weak men. He who balks at saying no risks emerging from the fray wearing pashmina scarves, sporting sequined slippers, smoking from a hookah and drinking from a coconut while trying to avoid being checkmated on a tiny sandlewood board held by a solicitous Indian salesman yelling, "Chess, Boss!? Chess, Boss!?"

"This guy's been following us for three hours," says a tattooed 20-something Briton named Gareth Harrison, a five-time visitor to Goa, as he haggles for 20 wooden bracelets with an assertive Indian boy. The wails of snake-charmers' horns mingle with the smells of cow manure and burning incense. Finally, Mr. Harrison gets his price: 50 rupees, about $1.10, at 22 cents to the rupee. "We started at 500," he says.

Sipping cold drinks at a makeshift cafe, a 30-ish couple from Slovenia, Polona Volf and her boyfriend, Bostjan Mohar, survey the pageant. "We wanted to go to Bali," says Mr. Mohar, a special-ed teacher in a tank top and shorts. "But we saw a documentary called 'Last Hippie Standing,' so we changed our plans."

As midnight approaches, the $5-a-night guesthouses empty and the sloping roads leading to the Paradiso nightclub fill with rented motorcycles and scooters. (Any innkeeper can arrange one with a phone call.) Their small headlamps appear from around curves, swerving through the blackness like fireflies as they pass low-lighted seafood shacks and Goan curry joints along the dark seaside roads.

A beacon in the sky explains the heavy traffic: a full moon. Decades ago, Goa's hippie settlers would hold beach parties on full moon nights. When the rave generation showed up, it appropriated and expanded the ritual, orchestrating D.J.-fueled blowouts in specially designated outdoor expanses like the famous Disco Valley. The tradition has waned, though full-on outdoor raves still occur, generally in December and January. Meanwhile, clubs like Paradiso and Nine Bar pick up the slack.

Constructed of mud and perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, Paradiso's vast three-tiered space has a grottolike prehistoric feel, complete with hobbit-worthy nooks. A large, blue-lighted statue of Shiva shines in a corner, his many arms extended as he dances his cosmic dance. Under the moon's and Shiva's glow, a Lollapalooza-looking crowd dances to the distinctive, deafening explosions of Goa trance music. Underpinned by a rapid-fire drumbeat and punishing basslines, the many layers of dark, minor-key synthesizers open cyclonic swells of sound. Strange snippets of speech, scarcely recognizable, float across the mix and fade.

Developed in the still-insular Goa of the 1980's, the scene's signature sound was intended as a digital-age descendant of tribal drumming, shamanistic ritual and druggy psychedelia. By the 90's, it began to catch the ear of some top international D.J.'s, notably the founder of Perfecto Records, Paul Oakenfold. Those impresarios' production skills and clout did much to transport Goa trance onto the international club circuit. Today, Goa trance parties and CD mixes abound worldwide.

For the far-flung disciples of Goa trance, a journey to Anjuna is a bit like a Christian pilgrim's trip to Bethlehem.

"I've been dreaming about coming here since I was 14," says Omri Lauter, a shaggy-haired unshaven Jerusalem native and trance music fan who looks to be around 25. The swirling crowds surround his cross-legged perch on the ground. "This is like an Eden."

"The only place I can compare it to is Ibiza," says the club's owner, Nandan Kudchadkar. He explains that many of the D.J.'s he invites, who come primarily from London, Scandinavia, Russia, Japan and Israel, try out their newest trance mixes here before recording them or bringing them to other sites worldwide. Anjuna's discriminating clubbers, he goes on, need constant novelty. "You can't repeat a track here for 15 days or people will shout and yell."

Come daylight, Goa's dedication to partying is matched by its dedication to the healing arts, the yang to the night's yin. At Purple Valley yoga center, rejuvenation might take the form of ashtanga poses or vinyasa flow exercises, two of the daily courses offered. The leading name on Goa's yoga circuit, the center has brought in pretzel-limbed luminaries from the globe's four corners, including the sometime teacher of Madonna and Sting, Danny Paradise.

But Goa's most authentic spiritual experiences require a taxi ride into the past.

Snaking south into the lush Goan countryside, the cracked asphalt roads out of Anjuna pass scenes of daily Indian life that seem a world away from the Birkenstock-trod paths behind: fires burning amid roadside shanties; little boys playing cricket in an overgrown field; elderly Hindu women walking barefoot with baskets on their heads; ancient peepul and banyan trees. The succession flickers quickly past the half-lowered window like film images carried by the warm breeze.

The heads seem to bow especially low upon entering the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, the ghost town of Baroque edifices that was once the splendid seat of Portugal's Indian trade colony. The reason for their reverence lies in a deep alcove, where a fabulously wrought silver casket holds the remains of the most famous Western spiritual seeker ever to reach Goa's shores: St. Francis Xavier.

Dispatched on a missionary voyage to the East in 1541, St. Francis, a Spanish-born Jesuit, stepped off a ship the next year and found himself in a prosperous international metropolis larger than London. As one French traveler observed, Goa's boulevards were lined with "goldsmiths and bankers, as well as the richest and best merchants and artisans."

St. Francis journeyed all over the East, returning frequently to Goa before his death in China in 1552. His body was taken to Goa two years later. Today, Baroque churches, convents and cathedrals testify to the former splendor. Whitewashed, the spectral relics stand out against the green grassy expanses and encroaching jungle like a Catholic version of the Angkor temple complex.

A few miles farther south, outside the tiny village of Priol, the faith changes from Christian to Hindu. Wearing colorful saris and Madras shirts, Indian travelers carrying wreaths of orange flowers stream into the 17th-century Shri Manguesh temple and lay down their offerings. The air hangs with incense and quiet muttering. Old women selling bananas work the crowds outside.

According to legend, Shiva —Hinduism's supreme creator and destroyer — once played a game of dice against his wife, Parvati, and lost everything. Dejected and unburdened of his worldly things, he did what many have done since: he took refuge in Goa, on the spot of this very temple. Parvati eventually followed and beseeched him to return. He agreed, and they were reunited.

Shiva, you might say, came to Goa, changed his mind, then changed his ways.

WHEN TO GO

The season surrounding the summer monsoon, basically November to May, is the best time to visit Goa. The week between Christmas and New Year's is very popular — especially for the Anjuna rave scene — and hotel rates typically double or even triple. A visa, obtained in advance, is required for United States citizens.

GETTING THERE

There are no direct flights from the United States to Goa. The best option is to fly to Mumbai and get a connecting flight to Dabolim Airport in Goa. Air India was offering round-trip fares from Kennedy Airport in New York to Mumbai for $1,041, including taxes and fees, for this month. Several discount Indian airlines operate between Mumbai and Goa, including Air Deccan (www.airdeccan.net), Spicejet (www.spicejet.com) and Jet Airways (www.jetairways.com).

GETTING AROUND

Hiring a prepaid taxi at Dabolim Airport (located in the city of Vasco da Gama) is the easiest way to reach Calangute, Baga and Anjuna, which are about 45 minutes north. The taxi counter (0832-254-1235) is just outside the baggage claim area and a bit to the left, on a traffic island. Expect to pay 640 rupees ($14.35, at 50 rupees to the dollar) to these destinations.

As for addresses, most hotels, restaurants and shops don't have numbered street addresses as such, so always carry the most detailed map you can find. Taxi drivers can often (but not always) find places with only a name and a village.

WHERE TO STAY

Palacete Rodrigues, Mazal Vaddo, Anjuna, 91-832-227-3358. A centuries-old Portuguese mansion transformed into a guesthouse. A little dilapidated, but the staff is friendly. Doubles from 850 rupees. The lone air-conditioned room, a twin, is 950 rupees a night.

Guru Guesthouse, Anjuna Beach, 91-832-227-3319. Backpackers, bohemians and barflies will like this no-frills dirt-cheap hotel, which has a meditation area and an adjacent bar with sublime views of the Arabian Sea. Rooms from 250 rupees.

Pousada Tauma, Porba Vaddo, Calangute, 91-832-227-9061, www.pousada-tauma.com. This cluster of red templelike stone buildings is the fanciest boutique hotel in the Baga-Calangute strip. Guests can dip in the sprawling pool, undergo ancient ayurvedic treatments in the spa and dine on tasty local Goan cuisine in the highly regarded Copper Pot restaurant. Standard rooms cost 130 euros ($159 at $1.23 to the euro) to 370 euros a night ($453) depending on the season.

WHERE TO EAT

Martha's Breakfast, 907, Monteiro Vaddo, Anjuna, 91-832-227-3365, is a shady patio serving robust and cheap meals that almost make taking your morning antimalaria drugs a pleasure. Offerings include American pancakes (65 rupees), banana porridge (45 rupees) and fruit lassis (from 35 rupees).

Hanuman Bar and Restaurant, North Anjuna Beach, 91-832-309-0442. The eclectic menu at this laid-back beach restaurant includes Indian, Chinese and even Israeli dishes. A meal for two, with drinks, will rarely run more than 400 rupees.

Britto's, Baga Beach, Bardez, Goa, 91-832-227-7331. A very mellow oceanside restaurant with a lovely view of the sea serves everything from full English breakfasts (180 rupees) to Indian curries and tikkas (80 to 140 rupees) to fresh seafood (300 to 700 rupees), notably pomfret, kingfish and tiger prawns (from 300 to 700 rupees).

Sublime Bistro, Baga River, 91-982-248-4051, showcases the skills of its chef and co-owner, Chris Agha Bee, who trained at the Culinary Institute of America. A daily shopper for produce at the markets in Mapusa and Calangute, he serves up dishes like crab-prawn cakes and grilled marlin on lentils in mustard sauce. A three-course meal for two costs around 1,200 rupees.

WHERE TO PARTY

Paradiso, North Anjuna Beach. Cover charge is 200 rupees.

Tito's, Tito's Lane, Baga, 91-832-227-9895. Cover charge, 300 rupees.

Mambo's, Tito's Lane, Baga, 91-832-227-9895. Cover charge, 200 to 300 rupees.

For Travel planning and Vacation you can try Goa Vacation Packages

Gwalior , The majestic beauty

2007-04-16T21:25:00.000+05:30

Introduction
Steeped in the splendour of its past, the ancient capital of Gwalior has yet made a successful transition into a modern Indian city, vibrant and bustling. It's legendary beginning stems from a meeting between a warror called Suraj Sen and a hermit, Gwalipa, who lived on the hilltop where the fort stands. Over the centuries, Gwalior became a city of immense importance and was a continual scene of intrigue and clashes with neighbouring powers. It's stratigic location was patronised by many mighty rulers, making it the birthplace of many dynasties, each leaving its own indelible mark over the city.

Quick Facts about the City:
Area - 82 sq. km
Population - Approx. 9 lakhs

Location
The fort city of Gwalior is situated in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh on the main New Delhi'Mumbai and New Delhi'Chennai rail link. It is around 321 km from Delhi. The city extends between latitude 26'14' in the north to longitude 78'10' in the east.

STD Code
International code being +91, city code is 0751

State:
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. Named after Saint Gwalipa, Gwalior is a verdant city but only if you look at the canopy cover.

General Info & History:
Gwalior's history is traced back to a fascinating legend: in 8AD, a chieftain called Suraj Sen was stricken by a deadly disease. He was cured by a hermit saint, Gwalipa, and in gratitude, founded a city which he named after the saint who had given him the gift of a new life. The new city of Gwalior became, over the centuries, the cradle of great dynasties and with each, the city gained new dimensions from the warrior-kings, poets, musicians and saints who contributed to making it a capital renowned throughout the country.

Best Season to Visit:
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. Monsoon starts from the first week of June and remains there till August/September.

Climate:
Gwalior has extreme climate. The summers are very hot and winters are cold. There have been frequent death reports due to heat wave during the summers.

Temperature:
Summer - Max: 46 Min: 21
Winter - Max: 22 Min: 6

Local Language:
Hindi, Urdu, Marathi and English

How to get there:
By air
The airport at Gwalior receives domestic flights from Delhi (travel time-50 min.), Mumbai (travel time-3 hr 30 min.), Bhopal (travel time-45 min.), Indore and Jabalpur. From Delhi, Indian Airlines has flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays; and Alliance Air has flights on Mondays and Fridays. Book a flight with any of the domestic airlines.

By train
Gwalior is on the Central Railway's main Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Chennai lines. A convenient train from Delhi is the New Delhi-Bhopal Shatabdi Express which runs daily (travel time-3 hr 30 min.).

By road
Gwalior is connected to most cities in India. It is 118 km from Agra, 420 km from Bhopal, 1086 km from Mumbai, 318 km from Delhi, 486 km from Indore, 280 km from Khajuraho and 344 km from Sanchi.

Local Transport:
The most common and cheapest way of moving around the city is the six-seater auto-rickshaws. Taxis are also available so are mini buses.

Accomodation :
There are many hotels which provide accommodation in Gwalior,to list few of them:

anand palace hotel
banjara hotel
city palace hotel
ds hotel
grace hotel
gwalior regency hotel
land mark hotel
landmark hotel
regency hotel
saya hotel
shelter hotel
shivalya hotel
sonalika hotel
tansen hotel
vivek continental hotel
shubham continental
the central park
the regency square
usha kiran palace

Festivals:
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.

Religious Places :
Shanichara Temple- 18km from Gwalior
The Hindus hold Shani (Saturn), in great awe and respect. In fact, Saturn is the only deity whose benign glance is believed to bestow prosperity, while a fierce look can cause unparalleled misfortune on the object of its attention. Small wonder then, that devotees flock to appease him every Saturday. The Shanichara Temple made of stone at Aeti is rather special, though it doesn’t appear so from the outside. It houses the original black idol of Shani brought from Lanka (presently Sri Lanka). Legend has it that Shanideva was held prisoner by the demon-king Ravana (king of Lanka), in the Hindu epic Ramayana. The dusty village of Aeti came into being only after the temple was established. Earlier it was just a barren hilltop dotted with a few trees.

A Grand Prayer Organised On Every Saturday
A grand puja (prayer) is held here every Amavasya Shanivar (moonless Saturday night), which has devotees thronging to the temple in droves. Special narrow gauge trains operate from Gwalior, Agra, Jaipur, Baroda and some other cities to bring devotees to the temple.

The Statue of Hanuman
Just outside this stone temple is a statue of the monkey-god Hanuman. It depicts Hanuman with a dagger tied to his waist stepping on another monkey. A very curious practice is observed here: worshippers leave behind their shirts and shoes or have their hair cut in the belief that any curse that might have been cast on them will disappear along with their locks.

Transport
The Shanichara Temple is about 18 kilometres from Gwalior en route to Padhavali, Bateshwar and Mitaoli.
Bus services are rare – make enquiries at the Gwalior bus station. Hiring a cab is a better idea.
Roads are moderately good up to a point, after which it is just a dry, rough track to the temple.

Teli Ka Mandir - An Architecture Splendor
This Rajput Temple is an amalgam of the northern and southern architectural styles of India, although many opine that it is closer in design to the temples of Orissa than the South.
The tallest and most impressive temple within the precincts of the Gwalior Fort, there are several theories as to how the shrine acquired its name.
According to one surmise Rashtrakuta Govinda III occupied the Fort in 794, and appointed the Telang Brahmins (check Religion for details on Brahmins) to supervise all religious ceremonies.
The temple got its name from them. According to another version, the monument is called the Teli Temple, because men of the Teli caste or oil merchants handled its construction. A third conjecture is that the name suggests a link with the Telangana region in modern Andhra Pradesh, suggesting the fusion of Dravidian and North Indian architectural styles.

Magnificent Architecture Splendor
Whatever the truth, the fact remains that the Teli Temple, is a marvellous amalgam of the architecture features of the temples of North and South India.
The shikhara (spire) is definitely Dravidian in style, while the decorative details are in the Nagara style – specific to North India. Figures of river goddesses, amorous couples, coiled serpents, and a flying Garuda (Lord Vishnu’s vehicle) abound in the temple complex.

Attractions :
The Gwalior Fort - Described as 'the pearl in the necklace of the castles of Hind' by the Mughal Emperor Babur, the Gwalior Fort was mightier than any other fort in the medieval ages.Naturally every powerful ruler dreamt of possessing it. It has fascinated historians and poets alike down the ages, and continues to do so. It also tickles one's curiosity because its origin is shrouded in mystery. The Gwalior Fort has changed hands many times, from the Tomaras in the 8th century, to the Scindhias who were its masters when India became independent. and each of these dynasties adorned and embellished the fort. One cannot help being impressed with the perfect blend of the Hindu and Muslim architecture that characterises the fort and finds its fullest expression in this brilliant monument..

Jai Vilas Palace - Built in 1809, this palace is located in new city of Gwalior. It is house of the present Maharaja of Gwalior.

Tomb of Tansen - Father of Indian classical music and one of the nine Gems in Akbar's court is buried in Gwalior. The memorial of this great singer carriers a very simple tone in itself and is surrounded by gardens on its sides. This monument is a part of Gwalior's cultural heritage. Every year a music festival is organised here. The festival is held in November / December and attracts singers and musicians from all over India.

Mausoleum of Ghaus Mohammed - Ghaus Mohammed, whose sand stone mausoleums is laid in the old town of Hazira, was a Afghan Prince turned sufi saint who had helped Babur towin the Gwalior fort. His mausoleum is designed on early Mughal architectural lines. Particularly exquisite are the screens using pierced stone technique. The carvings on these screens are as delicate as lace.

Sun Temple - This newly constructed temple is based on the lines of the Konark temple. It is located near the Residency at Morar

Shopping/Clothing :
Gwalior can be a good place to purchase famous Chanderi Saris. The handicrafts shops at Gwalior have a good collection of artifacts and stone carvings.
The best places to shop from in Gwalior are the state tourism shops, which are reasonably priced and offer good quality. You would be well advised to check out the washing instructions for all handlooms.

Gwalior Bazaars
The major ones are :
Sarafa Bazaar famous for handloom, jewellery and handicrafts.
Topi Bazaar for leather items.

The minor bazaars are :
Bada Bazaar
Naya Bazaar

Both these bazaars sell exquisite handlooms, handicrafts, pottery and other stuff.

Madhya Pradesh is well known for its light and delicate cotton-and-silk saris like maheshwari and chanderi. You can try Kothari at Sarafa Bazar for chanderi, brocade and silk saris. You can check out the MP Emporium nearby and the MP Khadi Sangh which sells handlooms and handicrafts. In the same neighbourhood is Ganpatlal Krishna Lal, which is a good place to buy jewellery and antiques. MD Fine Arts in Subhash Market and Mrignayani at Patankar Bazaar also house paintings and handlooms respectively. There are wholesale cloth markets in Gandhi Bazaar, Naya Bazaar and Dahi Mandi (in Daulat Ganj) if you are interested. Cloth is sold by weight here.

Important Getaways
Datia
69 km from Gwalior, on the Delhi-Chennai main line, Datia is a town whose antiquity can be traced back to the Mahabharata. A town of great historic significance, Datia's seven-storeyed palace built entirely of stone and brick by Raja Bir Singh Deo in 1614, is considered to be one of the finest examples of Bundela architecture in the country. Within the palace are some fine wall paintings of the Bundela school. An interesting blending of cultures can be seen in the frescoes in a temple; Datia's other attraction is its imposing Gopeshwar Temple.

Sonagiri
This sacred Jain hill lies 3 km to the North West of Datia and is 5 km from the railway station. There are 77 Jain temples, built in rows on the hill and its slopes, and date back to the 17th century. Of these the temple dedicated to Chandranatha, the 8th of the 24 Tirthankaras, is quite a large one and the most beautiful. A large annual fair is held here in the month of Chaitra (April).

Pawaya
Known as Padmavati in ancient times is a fascinating complex of ruins, 68 km away, on the Gwalior-Jhansi road. Pawaya's ruins still bear testimony to the days when it was the capital of the Nag Kings, in 3 AD. Particularly noteworthy is the lifesize statue of Chaksha Manibhadra of 1 AD. The ruins of the medieval fort built by the Parmars and the nearby Dhoomeshwar Mahadeo temple are Pawaya's other attractions.
Kuno-Palpur Sanctuary, Chambal Ghariyal Sanctuary and Ghatigaon Sanctuary - more info available in Wildlife Guide section.

Tigra Dam
23 km. A pictureque setting for recreation.

Chambal
An Untamed Wilderness
A wild river. Broken hills. Deep ravines. And to top it all the violent legends of man and beast. Welcome to the Chambal. A rugged, raw, untamed wilderness right in the heart of India.
Flowing through a total length of 435 kms. National Chambal Sanctuary is in three states of M.P, U.P and Rajasthan. The River Chambal is one of the country's most beautiful and least polluted river systems. The National Chambal sanctuary was formed to protect this pristine river ecosystem, complete with its varied flora, aquatic life and avifauna. With its headquarters at Morena, M.P.
An aquatic life paradise
The Chambal River which is the mainstay for the entire wildlife of the sanctuary harbours a variety of aquatic life like the elusive Ganges River Dolphin, Crocodile (muggar), Gharial (Gavelia Gangeticus), Freshwater Turtles, River Otters and a various species of fishes. All of which can quite easily be seen by tourists within the sanctuary area, specially in the middle reaches in the downside of Rajghat Bridge on National Highway No. 3. The Crocodile centre at Deori Moreno nearby is the only one - of - its - kind in the entire state of Madhya Pradesh and has recently been opened to the public. The centre helps breed and rehabilitate Crocodiles and Gharials in the Chambal. Thanks to which the river now boasts of a population of over 1600 Gharials and 200 Crocodiles. Active efforts are now on to protect the Ganges River Dolphins.
A Cruise for Dolphins
The rare Ganges River Dolphin (platanista Gangetica), the sole member of the cetaceans group is one of the main attraction of the sanctuary. So called the Queen of Chambal, the Dolphins inspite of being blind can be seen pursuing their playful antics in the water while coming out to breathe for air. The Chambal Sanctuary is one of their safest breeding areas. And one has to be really lucky to sight one while cruising in the Chambal. Flights of Fancy. The surrounding environs of the river are a true bird watchers delight. During the season (November - March) one can see thousands of migratory and resident birds flock at the shores of the river. A least 150 species of birds have been identified. Species of birds in abundance are the Bar-headed Geese, Brahmini Duck, Common Tea, Pelicans, Flamingoes and Cormorants. One can have an easy sighting of the Indian Skimmer - the highest population of which in the world is found in Chambal.
Live & Let Live
Tourists to the sanctuary can enjoy its many sights by motor boats specially provided by the Forest Department of Madhya Pradesh. Complete safety within the peripheries of the sanctuary is ensured by the local authorities. And one can freely enjoy the natural wonders of the sanctuary which during the 50's & 60's was largely hidden due to the presence of dacoits.
Stringent measures to protect the fragile ecosystems of the sanctuary are followed by the authorities. The visitors are also advised not to disturb, spoil the serenity of the surrounding environs or help in poaching activities directly / indirectly.
How to get there?
The National Chambal sanctuary can be easily reached by road, rail and air.
By Road
65 kms. South of Agra,
55 kms North of Gwalior on National Highway No. 3.
By Rail
270 Kms . South of Delhi.
By Air
The nearest airport is Maharajpur at Gwalior (50 kms away).

Jain Sculptures :
Near the Urwahi Gate, are 21 Jain sculptures that can be traced back to the seventh centurya.d. There is also a lovely statue of Shiva and Parvati, (unfortunately Shiva’s head has been lopped off) which dates back to the seventh century; and a sculpture of a reclining mother and child, built in the 10th century. However, the best sculptures are those of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras (saints). The tallest of the lot is nearly 20 metres, and is characterised by its rigid posture and rounded modelling. There is also the colossal figure of the seated Adinatha, the first of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras, distinguished by the symbol of the bull. Another remarkable bit of craftsmanship is the 30 feet high figure of the seated Neminatha, the 22nd Tirthankara, with the symbol of a shell on a pedestal. Many of the sculptures were either defaced or smashed in the course of history. Later, the faces of the statues were restored.

Travel Tips :
To all tourists - beware of touts, if, new to the place.

Arts & Crafts:
Carpet-Weaving
Though Madhya Pradesh never took centrestage in the history of India, it could not remain entirely untouched by the happenings around it. Along with the Rajputs, Marathas and the British, the mighty Mughals too left their stamp on this vast state.
Carpet-weaving which came to India from Persia, was a craft very dear to the Mughals. Thanks to their encouragement and patronage, Gwalior developed into a carpet-weaving centre.

Dyeing of Textiles
The workers here are undisputed masters not only of weaving but dyeing as well. Alas, as elsewhere in India, colouring is now done more with synthetic dyes instead of eco-friendly natural dyes. Woollen carpets in vibrant colours with both floral and geometric designs are a good buy. It is better to buy carpets from Jaipur or Delhi rather than Gwalior, as you get better quality at cheaper rates there. As a rule, never buy expensive items from small outlets – find a reputed shop or stick to government emporia.

Dolls & Toys
These dolls are made out of small cloth pieces and are produced in Gwalior, Bhopal and Jhabua. Visit the craftswoman Battobai if you want to buy dolls – they are known the world over and exported in large numbers as well.

Papier Mache
Though not the leader, Gwalior is definitely a hotbed of papier-maché articles and toys. The traditional expression of this craft was the creation of ornate articles like vases, figurines and icons. Gwalior is a good place to pick up papier-maché statues, birds, animals and decorative panels. Papier-maché items are so delicate that it is important to have them packed well. Inevitably, the price increases with the quality of work. It is advisable to do a round of all the shops before indulging in serious buying.

Dhokra Metalwork
The tribals of Madhya Pradesh are famous for their imaginative and creative dhokra or wire metalwork. Though it is not practised in Gwalior, it is certainly available in the market. Our suggestion is to buy it from where it is made extensively – you will have a wider choice and will get better prices.

Leatherwork
Gwalior is a big centre for leather production. You can choose from a variety of chappals, (slippers) loafers, moccasins, sneakers, sandals and pumps.

Important Landmarks :
Gwalior Fort
Bawadi

Emergency Contact No :
Tourist Information Centers(Govt)
Regional Office, M.P State tourism Development Corporation,
Hotel Tansen, Gandhi Road,
Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh (India).
Tel. - +(91)-0751-340370 / 342606.
Fax: +(91)-0751-340371

Tourist information Center
M.P State Tourism Development Corporation,
Railway Station, Platform No. 1
Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, (India).
Tel. - +(91)-0751-345379

Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation Ltd.
Gangotri, 4th floor, T.T. Nagar,
Bhopal- 462 003
Madhya Pradesh, India.
Tel. - +(91)-0755-774340 / 774342 / 774343;
Fax - +(91)-0755-772384

Banks & Money Exchange
You can change money at
State Bank of India, Lashkar
Usha Kiran Palace

Hospital & Medical Facilities
JA Hospital
Kamroo.
Kamla Raka
Kamroo.

Bhalla Nursing Home (for children)
Fort Road.

Garg Nursing Home
Near Kathoria Tal.

Post & Telecommunications
There are GPOs at Jayaji Chowk, Birla Nagar, Morar and Residency.

Shimla " Queen of Hill Sattions "

2007-03-29T14:43:00.000+05:30

Introduction

The British loved the town for its heavenly climate, scented pines and rhododendron forests, green pastures and snowcapped peaks. They dotted it with grand buildings and beautiful mansions. Come summer and the entire government officers, menial staff, files and cabinets would troop here. And Shimla became the Summer Capital of British India. The tradition continues even today, though unofficially. As the mercury begins its upward climb, the plains people too head northwards to Shimla for a reprieve from the sun. This mother of all hill towns finds something to offer everyone honeymooners, adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those with a colonial hangover.

Quick Facts about the City
Location: At an altitude of 2,159 m above sea level, Shimla is in the southern part of Himachal Pradesh. The town is surrounded by forests of oak, pine, fir and rhododendron.
STD Code: 91 (country dialling code) and then 0177.

State
Situated in the North-west Himalayas, Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh. It was once famous as the Summer Capital of "The Raj"- during the British rule. Himachal is one of the smaller states of the country and holds the 17th rank in the list of States and Union Territories of India.Other major towns are Solan, Dharamsala, Kangra, Mandi, Kullu, Chamba, Hamirpur, Dalhousie and Manali. The western Himalaya lies in the north and east and the smaller Shiwalik (or Shivalik) range in the south.Himachal Pradesh has five major rivers: Sutlej, Ravi, Chenab, Beas and Yamuna.

General Info & History
AREA: 5131 sq. km
POPULATION: 7.22 lakh
ALTITUDE : 2,130 m above sea level
TEMPERATURE : Between sub zero in winters and 30 C in summer. Through out the year.
CLOTHING : Light Woollens/Heavy Woollens

HISTORY
Shimla is the Capital Town of Himachal Pradesh. It was formerly the summer capital during the British Rule. The town of Shimla is built over several hills and connecting ridges. The important hills are Jakhu(8050 ft), Prospect Hill (7140 ft), Observatory Hill ( 7050 ft), Elysium Hill (7400 ft), and Summer Hill (6900 ft). There is a great controversy over the origin of the name Shimla. The name Shimla was derived from 'Shyamalaya' meaning blue house said to be the name of house built of blue slate by a faqir on Jakhu. According to one version Shimla takes it name from 'Shamla' meaning a blue female another name for Goddess Kali. The place was on the Jakhu Hillside, there was a temple of Goddess Kali. In 1864 Shimla was declared as the summer capital of India. After Independence, Shimla became the capital of Punjab and was later named the capital of Himachal Pradesh. In 1903 a rail line was constructed between Kalka and Shimla. Shimla has been blessed with all the natural bounties, one can think of. Dwelling on a panoramic location, the hilly town is surrounded by green pastures and snow-capped peaks. The spectacular cool hills accompanied by the structures made during the colonial era create an aura, which is very different from other hill stations. Bulging at its seams with unprecedented expansion, Shimla retains its colonial heritage, with grand old buildings, among them are the stately Viceregal Lodge, Charming iron lamp posts and Anglo-Saxon names. The Mall, packed with shops and eateries, is the centre of attraction of the town, and Scandal Point, associated with the former Maharaja of Patiala's escapades, offers a view of distant snow clad peaks. In 1946 leaders of the Indian nationalist movement came to Shimla for a crucial conference that paved the way to Independence. Shimla’s legacy of British control has left in somewhat of Aesthetic anomaly: an Indian town, a state capital, no less that looks and feels like a village in Northern England.

Best Season to Visit
Shimla can be visited throughout the year, as each season has its charm. The snowfall during the winters attract many tourists and accommodation can prove to be difficult. In the summers one can escape from the scorching heats of the plains and can enjoy the cool breeze at Shimla and in its vicinity. In summer, Shimla has the attraction of excellent walks and treks against the backdrop of the scenic beauty of wooded ravines, flowers and pines. Mall of Shimla becomes alive once again with tourists strolling and shops tastefully decorated and various exhibitions, craft fair etc. organised at locations on the mall. In winters, it is home to winter-sports and an ice-skating carnival. Today, Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and a favorite for filmmakers who wish to incorporate its scenic romanticism in their movies. Shimla is a stark example of the diversity that India offers to tourists.

Climate
Winter are cold and chilly winds from the upper Himalayas makes the place really cold. Around Christmas or last week of December Shimla gets snowfall. Temperature varies from 15 -27o C in Summers and in winters its in the range 0~17 o C.

Temperature
Summer - Max.28°C, Min.15°C
Winter - Max.7°C, Min.-4°C
Rainy - Max 22°C, Min 12°C
Autumn - Max 20°C, Min 7°C
Spring - Max 20°C, Min 11°C

Local Language: Himachali (Pahari), Hindi and English

How to get there
AIR
Nearest airport to Shimla is at Jubberhatti, 26 km from Shimla. It has connecting flights to Delhi and Kullu. The nearby Chandigarh airport is, however, more handy as it is connected to all the major airports in India. Following is the schedule of flights from and to Shimla:
Jagsun Airlines
Flight No. From To Departure Arrival Days of Week
JA221 Delhi Shimla 8.40 AM 9.40 AM Tue, Thu, Sat
JA221 Shimla Kullu 10.00 AM 10.20 AM Tue, Thu, Sat
JA222 Kullu Shimla 10.50 AM 11.20 AM Tue, Thu, Sat
JA222 Shimla Kullu 11.40 AM 12.40 PM Tue, Thu, Sat

ROAD
Shimla is well connected by road with Kalka, Chandigarh, Ambala, Delhi, Dehradun, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Amritsar, Jammu and other towns of Punjab and Haryana. Following are the road distances from Shimla to major cities of India:
Place Distance (Km.)
Kalka 90
Chandigarh 117
Delhi 370
Ludhiana 220
Dehradun 240
Kullu 240
Manali 280
Kalpa 260
Narkanda 64
Mandi 156
Dharamshala 280
Nahan 140

Taxi services are available on a seat- basis between Shimla, and Kalka. There is deluxe bus service between Shimla and Delhi. Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation also runs deluxe buses between Shimla and Delhi.

TRAIN
Shimla is connected by a broad gauge line up to Kalka. From Kalka to Shimla, a narrow gauge line covers 96 kilometers, of track. The journey by train, which takes about six hours, crossing 103 tunnels is one of the finest ways of enjoying the scenic beauty. There is another option for a fast train Shiwalik Express or a delightful ride in the Rail Car.

The Rail Car takes about 4 hours. Kalka has direct rail connections with Delhi, Calcutta and Amritsar

Local Transport:
For local transport, buses, jeeps and cars are available on hire.
Taxis/Cabs
Take a tourist taxi from the airport to the city (Rs 450; taxi fare from the city to the airport is much lower (Rs 300). The drive takes about an hour.
Prepaid Taxi Association - Ph# 2658892,Vishal Taxi Operators Union - Ph# 2657645, Kalka -Shimla Himachal Taxi Union, ISBT - Ph# 2658225
Buses
Travelling by bus is also quite convenient. ISBT is located on the circular road (Cart road), a kilometer from the lifts and downtown. Passengers on inter-state buses disembark at Victory Tunnel.
Deluxe coaches are operated by the state transport corporations of Haryana, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh from and to Delhi and Jaipur, via Chandigarh. Private bus companies also run Deluxe coaches on the Simla- Delhi and Shimla- Manali routes. In summer, the HPTDC runs deluxe and A/C Coaches from Delhi, Dharamsala, Manali and Chandigarh.
Rent A Car
Kufri (6 points) Rs 300/-, Naldehra (4 points) Rs 300/-, Kufri- Naldehra (10 points) Rs 500/-. Local Rs 300/-, Chail- Kufri rs 700/- Tattapani - Naldehra Rs 700/-. Narkanda - Kufri Rs 700/. Transfers Kalka Rs 560/-, Chandigarh Rs 800/-, Delhi Rs 2,550/-, Ambala Rs 1,200/- Manali Rs 1,800/-, Dharamsala Rs 2,000/-

Accomodation
Shimla is full of Hotels and Restaurants and there are around 500 hotels in and around Shimla. So accommodation is no problem in Shimla but to be on safer side one should book accommodation in advance for stay in Shimla, especially during the peak seasons of summer and Christmas.

Few of the hotels to name are:

Festivals
Bharara Fair (May)
Held in village Bharara near Kumharsain, Lord Koteshwar is taken out in a procession and goats are sacrificed in his honour. The fair is a cultural fiesta and Natti dances are performed.

Summer Festival (May)
A series of cultural programmes including local folk songs/dances mark this festival held in the famous Ridge Ground.

Lavi Fair (November)
A purely commercial fair held in Rampur, the shepherds of Kinnaur sell their goods here before migrating to warmer climes for the winter. It's a good opportunity to pick up woolens, dry fruits and herbs.

Winter Sports Festival
Shimla is the only place in Asia to have a natural ice-skating rink. Ice-skating normally begins in early December and continues till February. The competition is interspersed with fancy-dress shows, dances and lively music.

Religious Places
Christ Church & St. Michael's Cathedral : Built in 1846-1857, Christ Church is the second oldest church of Northern India. The Church overlooks the ridge and is one of the landmarks of Shimla. The clocks on Christ Church were added later but none of them are functional now. The Church's exquisite beauty comes with the stained glasses that are fitted on its windows . You can discreetly have a look inside the church, or attend English-language services every Sunday during the tourist season . The town's other important churches are St. Michael's Cathedral and Roman Catholic Cathedral, which is just off the Mall

Jakhu Temple : Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is at an altitude of 8048 feet above sea level near the highest point of Shimla ridge. It offers a panoramic view over the surrounding valleys , out to the snowcapped peaks, and over the town itself. The temple is a 45-minute walk from the Ridge, one can also hire pony or taxi to visit temple.. Jakhu is a vantage point for witnessing the changing skyline as the sun rises or sets.

Sankat Mochan : On Shimla-Kalka road at a distance of around 5 KMs is the famous "Lord Hanuman" temple. Situated at an altitude of 1,975m, it commands an excellent view of Shimla town. Temple has beautiful campus and Langar is held every Sunday.

Tara Devi : On Shimla-Kalka road this holy place is accessible by rail, bus and car (11-km). From the station / road - one can visit the temple on foot around 5 km walk among dense forests. Temple is accessible through motorable road also and its around 20 KMs journey from the town. Situated on top of a hill that faces Shimla, the temple offers panoramic views of Shimla town and surrounding hills. A thick forest of oak and rhododendron surrounds it. It is famous picnic spot.

Kali Bari : The temple is situated near to The Mall and its 5 minutes walk from The Mall.The temple is dedicated to Shyamala Devi (Shimla is named after this goddess), an incarnation of Goddess Kali. Temple faces heavy rush during Diwali and Durga Puja as many Bengalis visit this temple.

Attractions
The Mall : All visitors to Shimla inevitably walk down the Mall, the main promenade that runs along the top of the ridge-a busy shopping area with old colonial buildings, souvenir shops and restaurants. At the top end of the Mall is Scandal Point, a large open square with a view of the town-a favourite rendezvous for visitors and the local people. Overlooking it is the elegant Christ Church with its fine stained glass windows. The labyrinth of Shimla's bazaars spill over the edge of the Mall.

Viceregal lodge : Housed in the Gothic splendour of the Viceregal Lodge is the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, India's premier academy for higher research.

Himachal State Museum : Very close to the Institute, in a colonial building set in spacious lawns, is the museum. It has collections of Pahariminiatures, stone sculpture, local handicrafts, textiles and embroidery.

Jakhoo Hill : Hill, Shiml's highest point, is rewarding for there are superb views of the town and its surroundings. At the top is an old Hanuman temple.(2Km).

Annandale : Hill, Shiml's highest point, is rewarding for there are superb views of the town and its surroundings. At the top is an old Hanuman temple.(2Km).

Glen : A pretty picnic spot beyond Annandale is located in the thickly Wooded Glen , beside a sparkling stream.(4 Km).

Summer Hill : The quiett and lovely suburb of summer Hill has secluded, shady walks and charming views. It was here that Gandhiji stayed on his visits to Shimla, in the elegant Georgian mansion that belonged to Rajkumari Amrit Kaur. Summer Hill is located on the Shimla - Kalka railway line.(5 Km).

Chadwick Falls : Just beyond Summer Hill is the 67 m waterfall, cascading into a deep gorge. The Falls are best seen after the monsoon.(7 Km).

Prospect Hill : A 15 minute climb from Boileauganj, Prospect Hill is another favourite walk and vantage point with breath taking views. There is a little temple to Kamna Devi on the top of the hill.(5 Km ).

Sanjauli : A serene location with delightful walks, Sanjauli is ideal for a tranquil weekend. There are fine vistas and the lights of Shimla and Chail can be seen twinkling at night. On the other side, Mashobra and Naldehra are visible. (3 Km)

Daranghati Sanctuary : This sanctuary located in the upper area of the Shimla district has an undisturbed forest area with plenty of wildlife-monal, tragopan, koklas and khalij pheaseants and musk deer, ghoral and thar. There is a network of bridle paths in the sanctuary. Visitors are advised to seek assistance from the forest staff posted at Dofda and Sarahan. The area is ideal for those who love to trek.

Shopping
There is an enormous range of goods that Shimla has to offer. This includes handicrafts, wood and metalwork, shawls, pullovers, local tweeds, caps, Tibetan carpets and pickles, jams and squashes. Shimla is the best market for the handicrafts of Himachal Pradesh. Woollen and pashmina shawls, decorative items, handmade shoes, dolls, woollen caps, carved wooden sticks, toys and other items made form wood are made in Shimla itself and are on sale in the Lakkar Bazar. Tibetan jewellery and trinkets are found in the small Tibetan shops near the Ridge.
The best shopping area in Shimla are The Mall, Lower Bazaar , Tibetan Bazaar and Lakkar Bazaar. Himachali Shawls, Pahari Cap, Pullovers handicrafts and toys etc. The day today items can be purchased from the shops in the lower bazaar. The Tibetan Market is famous for imported goods mainly electronics goods and fancy items.

Specialty of the District
Shimla is famous for its Scenic Beauty , Apples & Wooden Craft . Among special dishes Sidku or Sidu is very famous in upper Shimla hills. It is a thick fermented Roti of wheat flour with paste of opium seeds ( afimdana) mixed with either gur or salt added to it which makes it very delicious. It is always taken with home made pure ghee. Patandey are made of very thin paste of wheat flour and are eaten with dal and ghee or kheer.(made of rice and milk).

Activity for Kids/ Sports & Recreation
There are very few places in the world as richly endowed as Himachal Pradesh with its geographical diversity. Shimla is situated in the Shivalik range of Himalayas with combination of low lying hills to gigantic mountains. Shimla district is full of thickly populated pine trees and small rivulets, rivers in deep gorges and placid mountains lakes, mountain sides draped in snow, and green alpine meadows, all form a part of this immense spectrum. And the possibilities for a wide range of adventure activities is enormous. There are day-hikes by the thousand, and trek routes follow trails that last couple of days or can even extend over few weeks. These vary from gentle walks over easy terrain, to grueling expeditions. There is skiing, heliskiing and ice-skating. there is the thrill of paragliding and the test of stamina with mountain-cycling. You can go camping and fishing and play golf or take a safari by car, jeep or on motorcycle. All you have to do is make up your mind and select your own activity. No special training is required for most things, age is no consideration and all you need is reasonable level of fitness. Equipment, training and instructors are available. And then, all this comes at a fraction of what it would cost elsewhere in the world.

Trekking Routes :
Shimla to Kullu over the Jalori Pass (3300 m)
Shimla to Kullu via Bashleo Pass (3250 m)
Shimla- Rohroo- Sangla
Sarahan to Sangla.
Shimla to Hatupeak
Shimla to the Shalipeak,
Shimla to Churdhar
Shimla to Chail,
Shimla to Junga
Shimla to Tattapani

Fishing :
Acclaimed as the best sport fish in the world, both Brown and Rainbow Trout are found in the Upstreams of Pabbar river in Rohru, 110Kms from Shimla. There are several spots ideal for fishing. Chirgaon has a trout hatchery and other sites are - Seema, Mandil, Sandsu, Tikri and Dhamvari all are within 5 to 25 km of Rohru .. Mahseer Fishing is available at Tattapani 46 km from Shimla. The licenses for fishing at Pabbar can be had from the Officer of Fisheries stationed at Chirgaon.
No fishing is allowed during the following seasons:
Mahseer : 1st June to 31st July (General water)
Trout water :1st November to 31 January.

Skiing : Skiing is possible at Narkanda and Kufri (January–mid-March). HPTDC organises ski courses of 7 days and 15 days duration at Narkanda. One can get himself registered with the HPTDC for the course and all the facilities of equipment, lodging and boarding are provided.

Golf : At Naldera, 23 km. from beyond Shimla is one of the oldest golf courses in India. The course, whose topography is absolutely natural, was originally placed by the British Viceroy of India, Lord Curzon, at the turn of the centuary. He was so enchanted by the spot that he named one of his daughters 'Naldera' after the spot. This is a par 68, nine hole course which is regarded as one of the most challenging in the country. In the repeat nine, the yardage some - what increases. The links are maintained by Himachal Tourism and accommodation is available at Hotel Golf Glade. There are other hotels in the private sector near Naldera.

Ice Skating : The Shimla ice-skating rink has the largest open-air area with naturally frozen ice in this part of the world. The Ice Skating Club has already celebrated its Diamond Jubilee.
Ice-skating normally begins in early December and carries on to February. Clear skies and low temperatures provide series of uninterrupted sessions. There are two sessions every day, in the morning and in the evening depending upon the frozen ice on the ground . The hanging balloon on the Municipal Building adjacent to scandal point works as signal , wheather the skating is going to held on that day or not. Membership is available for the season as well as for shorter terms and even for single sessions. Skates are available at the rink.Fancy dress carnivals, 'gymkhanas' ice-hockey and dances enliven every season.

Camping :The best way of enjoying a tour to Himachal Pradesh is setting up a camp to explore the vast beauty of nature. you can put up your own tent or take shelter under the roof offered by any of several camps that are situated in various parts of Himachal Pradesh. These camps offer accommodation, catering and lot of other activities.Most of these camps offer best quality services. Himachal Tourism has camps in Distt. Shimla at Mashobra and Baldian near Shimla.
Jungle Walks, Obstacle Course, Rock Climbing at Shoghi 18 kms before Shimla and 3 kms off the national highway, a picturesque forest drive through oak and rhododendron forests, takes one to Park Woods, Shoghi. Enjoy rock climbing, burmah bridge, dry river crossing, spider web, jungle walks, camping.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nightlife/Entertainment
Long after-dinner walks on the undulating roads and a few hotels serving drinks are the only signs of nocturnal life. However, from Christmas to New Year, evenings are much more fun, with all-night parties, plenty of bubbly and good music. Shimla has many lounge bars in the city. Like a lot of the other cities in India, you'll find some of the best bars in the 5-star Shimla hotels.

Woodville Palace Resort Hotel
Raj Bhawan Road Shimla,
Himachal Pradesh 171 002
Located in between Raj Bhawan and the Chief Minister's House, 22 km from the Shimla Airport, 4 km from the Shimla railway station, and 3 km from the Shimla bus stand.

Springfields Hotel
Opp. Tibetan School,
Chhota Shimla Shimla,
Himachal Pradesh 171 002
Springfields is the only garden hotel of the town with ample parking and overlooks a valley and the Snow Clad Choor Dhar mountain range, 17 km from the Jubbal Hatti Airport, 6 km from the Simla railway station, and 5 km from the Simla bus stand.

Moon Palace Hotel
Fingask Tourist Estate,
The Mall Shimla,
Himachal Pradesh 170 001
Located On the Mall, Drive in excellent view, 25 km from the Jubbal Hatti Airport, 1 km from the Shimla railway station, and 1 km from the Main bus stand.

Moon International Hotel
Near Secretariat,
Chotta Shimla Shimla,
Himachal Pradesh 170 001
Located Adjoining Secretariat, near Governor house, 25 km from the Jubbal Hatti Airport, 2 km from the Shimla railway station, and 2 km from the Main bus stand.

Travel Tips

Wear a comfortable pair of shoes. And if you are taking one of the more rugged paths, then something with a good grip at the ankles is recommended.
On the nature hikes do not leave the trail or spur, unless you are very sure of where you are going - distances and directions can be deceptive. The Shimla hills do not have poisonous snakes except the banded krait and these are rarely, if ever, encountered. It is also suggested that for these trails, the services of a guide be engaged.
A crowd of porters may besiege you at the bus and taxi stand. If you don't need their services, keep an answer ready to ward them off. They also work as agents for hotels, so check out the place for you.
The steep climb from the Mall to where most of the hotels are located can be very strenuous, so accepting the services of a porter can be a good idea -- but keep track of them as they walk very swiftly.
Carry light woolens for the summer and heavy woolens for winter.
Avoid green salads, uncooked food, and unhygienic water to save you from Traveler’s Diarrhea which is a common problem.
Carry sunscreen with minimum SPF 20 to escape sunburn.
Travelers from yellow fever areas are required to have an inoculation certificate. Prior inoculation for poliomyelitis is recommended.
Cases of mugging, theft and worse aren’t completely unheard of but by and large serious crimes against travelers are few and far between.
If you lose your passport, lodge a First Information Report (FIR) at the local police station and contact your embassy.

Dining Out
Shimla is much too commercialised to serve anything traditional. The hotels all have restaurants serving varied cuisine. You will find several eating joints in the Mall. Devicos is a multi-cuisine restaurant, serving north Indian, south Indian, Chinese and Continental. Baljees is ideal for breakfast or a quick lunch while shopping at the Mall. Chinatown predictably serves Chinese. The Park Cafe, at the east end of The Mall has a bar. Its milkshakes are worth an order. A good bet for Continental cuisine is Lutyen's Room at Springfield's (opposite Tibetan School, Chotta Shimla). If you want to dine in style, then the Cecil awaits you with its long list of wines and finger-licking fare.

Important Landmarks
Viceregal Lodge
Shimla houses some historic buildings and sights and they make for interesting and leisurely viewing. Housed in the gothic splendour of the Viceregal Lodge is the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies. This is a must see in Shimla. You can enter this splendid building and a guide takes you around to some of the important rooms on the ground floor. (Open from 10:00am to 5:00pm; Entry Fee: Rs 20/-)

Shimla State Museum
The Museum, which was opened in 1974, has tried to project hill-out and the cultural wealth of the state. Housed in a colonial building and set in spacious lawns, the museum has a collection of Pahari miniatures, bronzes, stone sculpture, carvings and also costumes, textiles, local handicrafts, embroidery and jewellery of the region.

Pre- Historic Gallery
At the entrance of museum, the visitors can have a view of some fiberglass models of extinct wild animals which were used to roam in the Shivalik hills, million of years ago. In the gallery, some stone tools and fossils are on display, which show the development of technique of tools.

Wood-Carving Gallery
Here one can find the display of wood carving and panels retrieved from the old- age temple and houses of state. There is a fine display of masks, which are still used in various religious and cultural festivities. The gallery serves as a living example of traditional wooden art of Himachal. Apart from this Some stone sculpture of Himachal are also on display.

Archaeology Gallery
The sculpture from different parts of India are displayed here. The themes, styles and material of these sculptures provide us with a good perspective of the cultural life of the various regions and provide a comparative study of art for research. Apart from this, some terracotta's of Maurya, Shunga and Gupta period and pottery shreds of proto- historic period are also on display.

Himachal Archaeological Gallery
Gallery has a unique collection of stone sculptures from different parts of the State which reflects the artistic skill of the regional artists. The sculptures of Simhavahini Durga from Hatkoti, Surya from Kullu, Vishnu and Lakshmi from Nirmand, Kartikeya from Karsog and Nidhi from Kangra are among the displayed sculpture.

Photographs Gallery
In up-stair one can find the display of photographs of important monuments of Himachal Pradesh. The photographs depict the hill architecture.

Himachal Pradesh University
The Himachal Pradesh University, a premier institution of teaching and research in the country, was established on 22 July 1970 by an Act of the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly. The University is situated nearly 5 km away from the town, at Summer Hill, a quiet suburb of Shimla in the vicinity of the Indian Institute of Advanced Study. Its beautiful surroundings present a panaromic view of snow peaked mountains and are ideally suited to pursue higher learning amidst rhododendron, silver oak, pine and deodar forests. The campus is spread over an area of about 200 acres. The various teaching departments, library, offices, residential complexes and hostels of girls and boys are housed in aesthetically designed buildings matching with the hilly terrain and climate.

Annandale
Developed as the playground of Shimla, Annandale is 2-4 kms. from the Ridge at a height of 6,117 ft. It is a favourite spot for cricket, picnics and the princely game of polo.

Prospect Hill
A popular picnic spot, the Prospect Hill offers excellent views of the surrounding country. The Hill is a 15-minute climb from Boileauganj and is located at about 5 km west of Shimla. The hill at an altitude of 2,155m offers a spectacular view of the area. There is a little temple to Kamna Devi on the top of the hill.

Emergency Contact No
Telephone Services
Trunk Booking 180
Trunk Enquiry 181
STD Complaint 2802089/2620000
Telephone Directory Enquiry 197
International Trunk Booking 2652200
Complaint Regarding Billing 2802844/2652810

General Emergency Numbers
Police 100
Fire department 101
Ambulance 102

Fire Stations
The Mall 101/2658976
Chotta Shimla 2623269
Boleauganj 2830664

Railways
Shimla/Railway Reservation 131/2652915

Police Help
Police Assistance 2812344/100
Police Control Room 2657430
Police Station Sadar 2652860
Police Station Chhota Shimla 2620954
Police Station Boleoganj 2830193
Police Post, Lakkar Bazzar 2655376
Police Station, Dhalli 2841377
Traffic Police 2652217

Police Officials
S.P.Shimla 2656535
Additional S.P.Shimla 2652497
Police Lines Kathu 2805264
Police Lines Bharari 2807084
Control Room 100/2800100
Reporting Room 2812344
Wireless Control 2623058

Hospitals
IG Medical College and Hospital 2883319
IGMC (Snowdon) 2654092
KNH (Lady Reading) 2625097
Indus 2841401/2841401
Sanitorium 2652800
Deen Dayal Upadhayay (Ripon) 2654071
Blood Bank (IGMC) 2803073
Blood Bank (Ripon) 2658940

District Administration
Deputy Commissioner Shimla 2653535
Sub-Divisional Magistrate (Rural) 2657009
Sub-Divisional Magistrate (Urban) 2657007
Duty Magistrate Control Room 2808200

H.P. Govt. Secretariat
Control Room 2622204

Cinema Halls
Revoli Theatre 2658067
Ritz Theatre 2652413
Shahi Theatre 2803035

Airlines
Jagson Airlines
City Office 2625177
Airport (Jubbarhati 2736835/426675

Railway
Enquiry 131

Information offices
Tourist Information Centers (Govt)
Shimla: Department of Tourism & Civil Aviation
Shimla - 171001
Himachal Pradesh,
India
Tel: (0177) 203346, 3517
Fax: 203346, 4973

H.P Tourism Development Corporation
Ritz Annexe,
Shimla-171001
India
Tel: (0177) 203294
Fax: 203434

Himachal Tourism Information Centre, Shimla
Tel: 91-177-214311, 78302
Fax: 91-177-212591

Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation
Marketing Office,
The Mall,
Shimla - 171001
Tel: 0177-2652561, 2658302
Fax: 0177-2652557

Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation
Government of Himachal Pradesh,
Block 28, SDA Complex,
Kasumpti,
Shimla - 171009
India
Tel: (0177)-2625864/2625924/2625926
Managing Director
H.P Tourism Development Corporation (Marketing Office)
Ritz Annexe,
Shimla - 171001
India
Tel: (0177) 2658880
Fax: 2652206

Business Hours of Shimla
Timing of Public and Private Offices
Public and private offices: 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. (Mon. to Fri.); some open on Saturdays, but all are closed on Sundays.
Shops Timing
Shops: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Mon. to Sat.)
Post Office Timing
Post offices: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Mon. to Fri.); 10 a.m.-12 noon ( Sat.)

JAIPUR - "The Pink City"

2007-03-23T13:18:00.000+05:30

Introduction

The city of Jaipur is the logical starting point for anyone traveling in Rajasthan because of its central location and good air, road, and rail connections. To the west lies the desert region of Marwar (Bikaner, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur), to the north and south run the craggy Aravali hills. From Jaipur it is an easy drive to Alwar and the Sariska Tiger Reserve in the northeast, or to Ajmer, Pushkar and Kishnagarh in the South east.
Also within reach is the Shekawati region in the northwest and Ranthambor National Park in the east.

Quick Facts about the City
Location: Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan state in west India. The second largest Indian state of Rajasthan is a land of contrasts – the Thar desert, mountains, man- made and holy lakes, forests and jungles, impregnable fortresses and magnificent palaces, of warrior kings and princes, saints and mystics, Rajputs and Mughals. In common with other parts of India, Rajasthan has a wealth of royal residences and stately homes in the form of palaces (great and small), forts, hunting lodges or large estates.
STD Code : 91 (country dialling code), and 0141, most numbers in Jaipur are still seven digits.
Country : jaipur,india
Area : 64.75 sq.km.
Airport : sanganer airport
People : rajasthani
Altitude : 431 meters
Climate : Max. Min.
Summer : 45.0° C 25.8° C
Winter : 22.0° C 8.3° C
Best Season : September-March
Clothing :
Summer : light tropical
Winter : Light woollen
Languages : English, Hindi, Rajasthani.
Population : 1.5 million

General Info & History
General Information
If Jaipur is a city of turbans and mustaches, it is also a city of polo which has curious variants: while usually played on Horseback it is also played on elephants and times being what they are on bicycles. The important sights to see in Jaipur are the city palace, the Jantar Mantar Observatory and Amber Fort. But do not miss the city's other fine public buildings such as the Albert Hall Museum. While on the subject of architecture remember to take a look at the grandiose Raj Mandir cinema whose style could only be described as "Cecil B.De Mille-Rajput Rococo". Above everything, Jaipur is an extraordinary colorful place.On its streets you see women in their brilliant red and orange odhnis and sweeping skirts and men in their equally vivid turbans and upturned mustaches. Both turbans and mustaches have an entire non verbal vocabulary of their own: for instance, twirling one's mustache while looking at a woman constitutes making a pass at her. And as for a turban, it can tell you the wearers hometown, profession and various other personal details besides.

History
JAIPUR "SHEER SYMPHONY IN PINK" The picturesque capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is colour washed pink-the colour associated with hospitality in Rajput culture. Built in 1727 A.D. by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur displays a remarkable harmony and architectural splendour. The ancient heart of the Pink City still beats in its fairy-tale palaces, rugged fortress perched on barren hills and broad avenues that dot the entire city. The only planned city of its time, Jaipur is encircled by its formidable wall. A young Bengali architect, Vidyadhar Bhattacharya formalized the city's plans in the grid system. The wide straight avenues, roads, streets, lanes and uniform rows of shops on either side of main bazaars were arranged in nine rectangular city sectors (Chokris) in accordance with the principles of town planning set down in the 'Shilpa Shastra' - an epochal treatise on the Hindu architecture. There is a timeless appeal to Jaipur's colourful bazaars where one can shop for Rajasthani handlooms and trinkets. Beautifully laid out gardens and parks, attractive monuments and marvellous heritage hotels, once the residence of Maharajas, are worth admiration. Not to mention the ambling camels and cheerful people in multi-hued costumes that make your trip to pinkcity a memorable one.

Climate/Temperature
Temperatures
Summer - Max.45°C, Min.25°C
Winter - Max.22°C, Min.00°C
Monsoon - Max.40°C, Min.35°C
Rainfall - 31.87 cm
Pre-monsoon, which extends from April to June, is the hottest season, with temperatures ranging from 32°C to 45°C. The second season Monsoon extends from July to September, temp drops but humidity increases making it very un comfortable, even when there is slight drop in the temp (35°C to 40°C). The Post-monsoon period is from Oct to December. The average maximum temperature is 33°C to 38°C, and the minimum is between 18°C and 20°C.
The fourth season is the winter or cold season, from January to March. There is a marked variation in maximum and minimum temperatures from 0°C to 25°C.

Local Language
Languages spoken: English, Hindi is spokeken,but Marwari is the local language spoken by many people here.

How to get there
By Air
Sanganer Airport at a distance of 12 km from the city center. There are direct flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Aurangabad, and some other cities from Jaipur.
CITY DISTANCE IN FLY TIME
From Jaipur To
Delhi 45 mins
Mumbai 02 hrs
Kolkata 01hr 30min
Thiruvananthapuram 3hrs 30mins
Bangalore 3hrs
Hyderabad 02hr
Chennai 03hr
Goa 02 hrs
Ahmedabad 01 hr 30mins
Aurangabad 02 hrs 30mins
Pune 02hr 30mins
Bhubaneshwar 01hr 30min
By Rail
The Jaipur Railway Station is in the heart of the town. There are many trains that connect Jaipur and Delhi. Palace on Wheels is a train with luxury accommodation that passes through popular tourist places on a week’s journey. It begins and ends its journey in Delhi and passes through Jaipur - Chittaurgarh - Udaipur - Ranthambhore - Jaisalmer - Jodhpur - Bharatpur and Agra. The Shatabdi Express from Delhi, takes four-and-a-half hours to travel to Jaipur.
Pink City Express also connects Jaipur to Delhi.
Rail
CITY DISTANCE IN RAIL TIME
Mumbai 14 hrs
Agra 3 hrs
Delhi 4hrs 30mins
Amritsar 7hrs 45 mins
Dehradun 13 hrs
Lucknow 6 hrs 40 mins
Kolkata 15 hours
Patna 12hrs 40 mins
Guwahati 15hrs 10 mins
Jammu 16 hours
Bangalore 33 hrs

By Road
Jaipur is part of the Golden Triangle Circuit of India that includes Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Most of these tours are conducted either by buses or trains. The National Highway 8 is the connecting link between Jaipur and Delhi. The entire highway is a four-lane double carriage-way. One can travel to Agra (230 km) along National Highway 11 via Dausa, Bharatpur and Fatehpur Sikri. The route is a two lane highway with fairly good surface. Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation has Volvo, air-conditioned deluxe coaches to Delhi. These also have sleeping facilities. One can also avail of the Pink Line bus services, operated by Rajasthan Roadways that takes about 5-6 hours to travel to Delhi.
By Road in Kilometers drive
Delhi 258 km 5 hrs
Udaipur 347 km 7 hours
Kota 242 kms 5 hrs
Bharatpur 176 km 3 hrs 30 mins
Agra 232 km 4 hrs 30 mins
Ajmer 131 km 3 hrs
Jaisalmer 543 km 11 hrs
Bikaner 354 km 7 hrs
Jodhpur 316 km 6 hrs 30 mins
Bombay 1202 km. 24 hrs

Travel Within Jaipur
Pre-paid taxis can be hired at the airport. Auto-rickshaws. There is a pre-paid auto-rickshaw counter, at the railway station. Taxis and autos are the most convenient ways of moving inside the city as well as to reach some of the excursions located in the proximity. To move around within the city, one can also take cycle rickshaws. Radio taxis and tourist cabs are available for short and long trips, in and around Jaipur.

Accomodation

Festivals
Chromatic Jaipur enchants you with its multi-colored festivals that mirror the fascinating customs of brilliant Rajasthan. Festivals in Jaipur are platforms for folk performers to display their art; these festal gatherings offer an excuse for merrymaking and general gaiety that adds color to pink Jaipur. Quite a few festivals are celebrated in Jaipur throughout the year but the most important festive affairs that involve mass participation; large scale pujas, prayers and cultural extravaganzas are Teej, Elephant Festival, Gangaur and the International Kite Festival. Women decorate their palms and feet with the most stunning and exquisite henna patterns during every Jaipur festival, men, women and children wear new clothes, artists perform with vigor and gusto, general enthusiasm, fireworks, ritualistic activities and more characterize festival celebrations in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. Be a part of the vibrant kaleidoscope that is Rajasthan as you enjoy and participate in the festivals in Jaipur with Rajasthan Holiday. See fire dancers, kalbeliya performers, delightfully adorned camels and warm people during your tours to the festivals in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.

Teej festival: The Teej festival celebrated with festal fervor and gaiety has a special religious significance. Ladies and young girls pray to the Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva's consort who exults in her conjugal bliss with Lord Shiva and therefore the women in Rajasthan treat the Teej Festival with venerable significance as they invoke the blessings of goddess Parvati to bless them with long and happy married lives. Pink Jaipur glistens in a riot of green as women and girls dress up in colors of freshness and fertility. Ladies and young girls wear colorful bangles and accessories to look brighter and prettier. Women and young girls come together to decorate and adorn idols of Teej Mata with opulent clothes and traditional jewelry. Ladies sing devotional songs and pray to Goddess Parvati as they hang traditional swings from trees and swing in rhythm with folk ballads. Almost all the lawns and gardens in Jaipur spring to life with colorfully decorated swings decorated with strings of marigold and spring flowers that infuse the whole of Jaipur with exuberance and hope - for a new life and a new beginning. In the afternoon heavily adorned ladies set out with idols of Teej Mata in big processions that course the lanes of the Old Jaipur city; most of these processions make a stop at the sacred Kanak Vrindavan before proceeding for the immersion rites.

Gangaur festival: Celebrated exactly fourteen days after Holi, the Gangaur festival is celebrated with pomp and enthusiasm all over Jaipur and several other parts of Rajasthan, India. The women of Jaipur adorn themselves in fine clothes and traditional jewelry and come together to invoke the blessings of Goddess Parvati. Young girls observe fasts and observe several traditional rituals that they believe will help them choose good husbands. Parents prefer it very much if their daughters find suitable grooms during the Gangaur festival as it is considered as a very auspicious time. Women gather the ashes of bonfires burnt on the night of Holi and bury wheat and barley seeds in these ashes. These seeds are watered for a day or two till they germinate. On the day four after Holi, women come together in communities and make clay idols of Gauri, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. These idols are decorated with traditional attire and jewelry and worshipped by singing devotional folk songs. Men and women come out in colorful processions carrying idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati on the streets of Jaipur. Married women prepare homemade Ghewar to offer to the Goddess Parvati. Ghewar is popular Jaipur sweet that is prepared on a large scale during the Gangaur festival. Men, women and children buy new clothes, families exchange gifts and women pray with complete devotion for a prosperous married life as the Gangaur festival celebrations. Watch folk artists in gay colors, see puppet shows and watch enthralling fireworks that light up the Jaipur skies as the people of Jaipur celebrate Gangaur with devotion and gaiety.

Elephant festival: Celebrated in the month of March every year, the Elephant festival is organized by the state tourism department in Jaipur every year. Elephants have played an important role in the royal history of Jaipur and the elephant festival in Jaipur showcases the beauty and skill of these gigantic pachyderms that walk the streets of Jaipur with graceful gait. The main venue for the elephant festival is the Jaipur Chaughan or the Polo Ground and the celebrations begin with a large procession of brightly caparisoned elephants who catwalk in all their gold and silver glory in front of all the visitors. Several camels and horses also join the procession though female elephants dominate the procession. Ornamented in colors of gold, red, yellow, green the elephants are adorned from their trunks to toes. Watch elephants in action as they participate in races, polo games, elephant games, tug-o-war etc. See folk dance performances and watch elephants at their royal best during the fabulous elephant festival.

The most engaging, exciting and thrilling event that enthralls you is the final gala when elephants spring holi colors at each other and the crowd with their trunks. Also see with bated breath as the elephants compete with each other in fierce elephant fights during the elephant festival celebrations in Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.

International kite festival: Makar Sankranti or the Hindu New Year is celebrated with merriment, kites, street plays, folk art performances and exotic food all over India and especially in Jaipur every year on January 14. The International Kite Festival fill the Jaipur soul with gay rainbow colors and a general happy mood. People from all over the world come and participate in the International Kite Festival with joyous enthusiasm. Entire Jaipur springs to life with paper kites, kite exhibitions, sessions on the history of kite flying, dance dramas and other festive celebrations. The International Kite festival in Jaipur has two main occasions; one the "Kite Fight" and the other the "friendly Kite flying" session. You'll be amazed to see the innovative shapes and colors that adorn the Jaipur skies during the International Kite Festival. The three-day kite festival is celebrated in the Jaipur polo grounds. On the final day of the festivities air force helicopters release hundreds of colorful kites in the blue skies and school children release balloons that fill the skies in vibrant hues of happiness and gay abandon. The final day of the International Kite Festival in Jaipur is celebrated on the Umaid Bhawan Palace lawns with a lot of pomp and fanfare.

Religious Places
Laxmi Narayan Temple: Tour the Laxmi Narayan temple located below the Moti Doongri in Southern Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. Constructed by the famous Birla family, the Laxmi Narayan temple in Jaipur is an excellent illustration of the secular spirit of India. The entire temple structure has been constructed in such a way that the building rises in a tiered form with three distinct domes representing three different faiths. The splendid Laxmi Narayan temple in Jaipur has been built in such a manner that the entire shrine begins to glow with a soft light as soon as the sun begins to set, creating a picture pretty vista against the glorious Jaipur skyline.
Dedicated to the Goddess of wealth and prosperity and the Lord of preservation, the Laxmi Narayan Temple in Jaipur is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi. Popularly referred to as the Birla Mandir, the Laxmi Narayan Temple in Jaipur is managed by the B.M. Birla Foundation. A similar temple build on similar lines has been constructed in Delhi also. Come and explore the architectural wealth of Jaipur with Rajasthan Holiday and discover the inherent charm of the fascinating and royal Pink City.

Attractions
Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal is located in the Tripolia Bazaar to the west of GPO. Built to let the ladies of royal harem watch the royal possessions, Hawa Mahal is not a palace as the name suggests. Hawa Mahal is the part of the east wall of the City Palace complex. Most well known of Jaipur's buildings, you can have the best views of this great building from the street outside.

The City Palace
A major part of the City Palace has been converted in a museum. Remaining part of the palace is still being used by the royal family of Jaipur as residence. The palace is built in the fortified campus style and covers almost seventh part of Jaipur. There are different sections of the museum dedicated to subjects like arms and ammunition, textile and costume, and art gallery.
Some important palaces in this complex include the Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Diwan-I-Aam, and Diwan-I-Khas.

Jantar Mantar
Translated into 'Instruments of Measuring the Harmony of the Heavens', Jantar Mantar was built by Sawai Jai Singh between 1728 and 1734. Jantar Mantar is a grand celebration of astronomical science and each instrument here serves a particular function and gives an accurate reading. Major Yantras or instruments that you can watch moving clockwise are:
1. Small 'Samrat'
2. 'Dhruva'
3. 'Narivalya'
4. The Observer's Seat
5. Small 'Kranti'
6. 'Raj'
7. 'Unnathamsa'
8. 'Disha'
9. 'Dakshina'
10. Large 'Samrat'
11. 'Rashivalayas'
12. 'Jai Prakash'
13. Small 'Ram'
14. Large 'Ram Yantra'
15. 'Diganta'
16. Large 'Kranti'

Nahargarh
Most of the fort is now in the ruins but it is a pleasant attraction in terms of stunning views you get from here of the countryside. There are few visitors here and solitude inside the ramparts of the fort makes the fort worthy of a good visit. The fort is lit beautifully in the night and dominates the skyline by the day.

Central Museum
Earlier known as Albert Hall, this building was built to welcome Prince of Welcome during his visit to India in 1853. The building is located in sprawling Ram Niwas Garden and houses precious collections of metalware, miniature portraits, and other pieces of art.

Kanak Valley
Welcome to Kanak Valley, a world of temples, chattris and cenotaphs interspersed with watercourses, ponds, dense greens and marble pavilions with brightly colored frescoes depicting Krishna lilas. All this and more stand in bright contrast to the seer Aravalli ranges known for their yellow craggy rock surfaces. Mountain brooks, hill streams and lush greens create a wonder oasis in the midst of a barren land. In fact centuries ago when Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh happened upon this paradise he was so enchanted that he christened it as Kanak Vrindavan i.e. a land that was just like the legendary Vrindavan of Lord Krishna. The Kanak Valley in Jaipur lies at a little distance from the Amber Fort and is the wonder world that is nourished with the River Dharbawati that has now been reduced to a hill lake. The Govind Deoji Temple and the Natwarji temple are the two most sacred shrines located in the Kanak Valley in Jaipur. The people of Jaipur consider the Kanak Valley so sacred that even today the Gangaur and other religious processions stopover at the Kanak Valley before going further. There are several royal cenotaphs in the Kanak Valley that are nothing short of architectural wonders with exquisite jail designs, intricate lattice work and fascinating marble friezes.

Shopping/Clothing
Jaipur offers one of a kind shopping experience with its rich treasure of bewitching jewellery, beautiful gems, semi precious stones, kundan and minakri work (enamel work on gold). Beautiful cotton fabric including sanganeri prints, tie-dye, and fine kota doria saries are the best buys for women. The exotic blue pottery, enamel ware and brass ware, make excellent souvenirs and gift items. The city is also famous for woollen carpets and cotton rugs, equally popular are the leather footwear, especially that embroidered Jutes.The famous shopping spots are Rajasthali, Johari Bazaar, MI road, Nehru Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar, Chapur stalls. The markets are generally closed on Sundays.Markets are generally open from 10:30 am till 5:30 pm and are closed on Sundays.Rajasthan Cottage Industries at Shilpgram Complex, Golomar Garden sells a wide range of silver jewellery, furniture, textiles and hand made paper.

Activity for Kids
Amusement Parks
Wonderland and Fun Kingdom (telephone: 91-141-397505, 395432 ) are outdoor parks where the kids can have all the fun they want. It�s a huge hit with kids of all ages! For more information on Wonderland, you can ring : 91-141-60954. Pink Pearl Water theme Park, on the Ajmer Road. (Telephone: 91-141-370670, 381988)

Zoo
Jaipur zoo houses a rarely found white peacock and a white lion amongst lots of other birds and four legged creatures. A must visit only for these speciesFor the hip and trendy teenager, a trip to the Megabowl is a must. It is one of the largest indoor amusement centre at Malviya Nagar that has the latest computer/video games and a bowling alley.

Birla Planetarium
Statue circle
The Birla Planetarium is at the BM Birla Science & Technology Centre offers unique audio-visual educational and entertainment with its modern computerised projections system.

Pink Pearl Water Park
Ajmer Road, phone: 370670, 381988.

Important Getaways
There are many places to visit around the city of Jaipur. One can see the amazing step wells and Harshad Mata Temple at Abhaneri and the Krishna Temples of Karauli. Rajasthani handicrafts are very famous and you can have the first-hand experience of the traditional block-printing process at Bagru and see the small-scale industry of handmade paper flourishing in Sanganer. Besides, one can also see the Jain Temples at Sanganer. The adventure-seekers and wildlife enthusiasts would love to visit the best-known Tiger reserve in India, Ranthambore National Park and the Sariska National Park. Samode Palace is exquisitely beautiful and has been preserved in a good condition while the Persian art of Tonk, which was once ruled by 'Pathans' of Afghanistan, is sure to grab the attention of the tourists. The charms never cease to amaze tourists in and around Jaipur.

Abhaneri
95 km from Jaipur, the village of Abhaneri is situated on the Jaipur-Agra road and is especially notable for 'baoris', the step wells that are an indigenous invention of the local people at rainwater harvesting. Besides these 'baoris', the Harshat Mata Temple is worth visiting, who is the Goddess of Mirth and Happiness. According to the local beliefs, Goddess Harshat Mata is always depicted in a jolly mood and is said to impart her mirth and happiness as brightness to the whole village. 'Abha' means brightness in Hindi. Thus, the village was originally named 'Abha Nagri', which in time was corrupted to Abhaneri.

Bagru
30 km from Jaipur, Bagru is situated on the Jaipur-Ajmer Road. The town is especially famous for the typical wooden block prints that are famous as Bagru prints all over India. The technique used for printing is also unique and simulates a wooden block print. Mostly ethnic floral patterns are used and typically vegetable dyes are used for traditional Bagru Prints.

Karauli
182 km from Jaipur, Karauli is known mainly for its famous Krishna temple known as Madan Mohanji Temple and other historic monuments. The village was founded in 1348 and it is the 600-year old Fort, which forms the imposing highlight of this village. Used as a residence by the royal family until 1950, the fort has now been abandoned by them. There are a good number of monkeys and geese in the fort. It is said that geese are here since the days when they were used as a warning system against any intruders. The large manor known as Bhawar Vilas Palace still belongs to the descendents of the royal family and has now been converted into a hotel. It offers comfy and luxurious rooms and good meals. One can reach Karauli by road from Jaipur.

Ranthambhor National Park
Ranthambhore National Park has once been the princely game conserve, lying at the junction of Aravali and Vindhyas in eastern Rajasthan. Known for the Indian Tigers, it also boasts of a tenth century fort, Dhok sands, plateau grasslands, meadows in valleys and lush green foliage around the canals. It has three big lakes Padam Talab, Malik Talab and Raj Bagh that abound with aquatic vegetation such as duckweeds, lilies and lotus. The 'Great Boundary Fault' where the Vindhaya plateau meets the Aravali range, is a unique geological feature, whereas two rivers known as Chambal and Banas flow across the park. Besides the tiger, which is the chief attraction here, other fauna of the park includes Owlets, Langurs, Leopards, Caracals, Hyenas, Jackals, Jungle Cats, marsh Crocodiles, Wild Boars, Bears and various species of Deer.

Samode
40 km from Jaipur, the fortified residence of the Nathawat family is a charming and romantic citadel that exhibits grandeur, good taste, class and elegance worthy of the erstwhile Prime Ministers of the Jaipur Royal Court. The main entrance of the fort is through the village and one can opt for camel safari to ride across the village with hardy desert people flashing warm smiles and extending cordial hospitality. The medieval architecture of the fort reflects oriental formality. 43 spacious rooms and suites surround the centrally located open courtyards and boast of their very own having private balconies and views.

Sanganer
16 km from Jaipur, Sanganer is known not only for its exquisite Jain temples but also as one of the world-famous centre for crafts and hand-printed textiles. The ancient Shri Digamber Jain temple of Sanganer has fine carvings that are comparable to the Dilwara temples of Mount Abu that are built in various phases. Built in old architectural style, the latest additions were made to the temple in the 10th century. It has sky-high 'shikharas' (spires) and the inner sanctum is a stone shrine with three pinnacles housing the idol of Parshwanath with 7 serpent hoods surrounded by carvings of religious symbols such as lotuses, creepers and elephants pouring water from pitchers held in their trunks. However, the presiding deity of the temple is Adinath.

Sariska National Park
107 km from Jaipur, Sariska National Park is larger than Ranthambor and has a similar topography. However, it does not have so many tigers and has not been so commercialized. Sprawling across an area of 800 sq km in the Northern Aravalis, it was declared a sanctuary in 1955 and became a National Park in 1979. The steep hills and narrow valleys, scrub-thorn arid forests, dry deciduous forests, rocks and grasses make a natural habitat for wide range of wildlife that exhibits ecological adoption and tolerance. Legacy of the Maharajas of Alwar, it boasts of historic pavilions and temples and the Kankwadi Fort nearby, which has a long and turbulent history. The best place and time to spot the wildlife and viewing game at Sariska is at the water holes at sunrise and dusk, when animals come here to drink water.

Tonk
96 km away from Jaipur, Tonk is a small and peaceful town. Once ruled by the tribes said to be descendents of 'Pathans' from Afghanistan, the highlight of the city is the Sunehri Kothi or the Golden Bungalow. The monument has stark and simple exteriors but its lavish and ornamental interiors are quite charming. The other monuments that are worth passing through are the old buildings that were once occupied by the British office. The leather and the felt industry of Tonk are also famous and one can get some good bargain on leather and felt items from the place. The Persian arts and crafts are prevalent in Tonk and those who are interested can also visit the library of Nawab of Tonk, which boasts of a good number of Arabic and Persian manuscripts and the Arabic and Persian Research Institute.

Nightlife/Entertainment
The Polo Bar
Rambagh Palace hotel,
Bhawani Singh Road,
Tel: 2381919
Decorated with polo trophies won by the late Maharaja of Jaipur, it is rated amongst the finest bars in the world. Steam, at the same hotel is located in a very unique setting of a steam engine. It is Jaipur's first and original "pub on wheels". is a popular watering hole.

Chokhi Dhani
Near Jaipur airport
Tel: 2770555
Chokhi Dhani, an ethnic village resort with a blend of rustic environment and modern amenities makes it your favorite destination in Pink City.
Chokhi Dhani Resort literally meaning the "Fine Hamlet" is a 5 star Ethnic resort, the only one of its kind in the country. With quaint mud and thatch dwellings set in sprawling acreage of land, it serves ethnic Rajasthani vegetarian cuisine. Traditional folk performance is organised alongside.

Geoffrey's
The Park Plaza Hotel,
Prithviraj Road
Tel: 0141 - 2339668/2336205
Geoffrey's the hotel pub delights you with a wide range of delectable dishes and wines on its menu.

Apna Gaon
Jaipur Sikar Road,
Tel: 331582
Serves authentic local cuisine amidst recreated village atmosphere. Entertainment here comes from puppet shows and folk dances. Most delicacies served here are made from vegetables grown on the same farm.

Dreamland
Gaurav Tower,
Malviya Nagar,
Tel: 2549487
Indoor family fun centre open from 11 am to 11 pm has discotheques, video games and fun rides.
Welcomgroup Rajputana Palace Sheraton
Every evening from 7.00 pm to 9.00 pm in the it-out area.
The show includes Kalbelia Dancers,Puppeteers and Bhopas that display Rajasthan's rich heritage.

Band Playing
Ram Niwas Bagh
An age old tradition of "Band Playing" has been revived by the Department of Tourism and is held every Saturday evening.

Travel Tips

While using local transport be it taxis or auto rickshaws, make sure that they down the meter. You may get fleeced.
Summers can be scorching hot and winters piercing cold.
Always have a couple of extra rolls / batteries for you camera, there is lots you can shoot.
Make sure you get a road map if you are planning to do the tour of the city on your own on foot. Local shop owners are helpful but it is always safer to ask a police man for directions.

Important Landmarks
Sargasuli
The tower erected in the mid-18th century by Maharaja Ishwari Singh to commemorate a battle victory dominates the skyline on the western side of Tripolia Bazaar and is the highest structure in Jaipur.

Ram Nivas Bagh
A lush spacious garden with a zoo, an aviary, a greenhouse, a herbarium and a museum. It was built by Sawai Ram Singh II as a famine relief project in 1868. Rabindra Manch here with an auditorium, a modern art gallery and an open air theatre hosts cultural events.

Statue circle
The full length exquisitely carved statue of Sawai Jai Singh in white marble stands at the centre of the circle.

Dolls Museum
Near Police memorial
Open:12noon to 7 pm.
Pretty dolls from various countries are on display within the complex of a school for deaf and dumb.

Tipping
10% in all locations

Eateries of Jaipur
Taj Rambagh amphitheatre offers both traditional entertainment and Tandoori cuisine to its guests. There are multicuisine restaurants here too. Lakshmi Misthaan Bhandaar or LMB is well known for serving sumptuous Rajasthani cuisine including famous dessert of Jaipur, 'ghewar'. There are many good multi-cuisine restaurants at Ganapati Plaza, while one can get real taste of Rajasthan at Tonk Road and Choki Dhani. However, these places offer only vegetarian traditional meals in their rustic way with lots of desi ghee and no tables unlike the sophisticated ways of big and famous restaurants in the city. Here, you can also enjoy the folk performances and a camel ride before lunch or dinner. There are several world-class multicuisine restaurants offering Indian, Continental and Chinese cuisine at MI Road. The palace turned hotels have some quality bars and multicuisine restaurants too such as Hotel Maharani Palace, Hotel Rambagh Palace, Hotel Mansingh Palace and Hotel Jai Mahal Palace . To savor South Indian food or nibble on fast food, Subhash Marg is a good place to explore. 'Niro's' specializes in Indian vegetarian and non-vegetarian, Chinese and Continental food along with American Ice Cream Sodas, while 'Golden Dragon' is known for its perfect Chinese cuisine. For a nibble in reasonable prices, 'Copper Chimney', 'Indian Coffee House' and 'Chanakya Restaurant' are good places to choose from. All of the above are situated on MI Road. Those who love to drink must visit 'Polo Bar' at the Rambagh Palace.

Emergency Contact No.s
Police 100
Ambulance 102
Crime police 1090
Sawai Man Singh Hospital 2560291, 2560392
Foreighners registration office 2669391
Forest Reception Office 2241333

If you are planning to visit Jaipur, You can visit the Jaipur Accommodation Guide. If you have any queries regarding Jaipur, you can ask the Jaipur City Expert and get answers within 24 hrs for free.