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the below tourists places to view the Information. |
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| South
India |
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| North
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| Central
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South
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The one side of town is sea other
side nature - agricultural fields,
villages etc., the boat will be taken
into ride by 2 boat man for about
20 miles to visit the folks of that
region. Fresh cooked food is served
with a help of a cook accompanying
the boat. alappuzha is famous for
the boat races held annually in august/september.
The "chundan vallams" or
snake boats, over 30 metres long,
with their raised prows are beautifully
decorated. as they glide off majestically,
their crews of a hundred or more men
row in perfect time to the rhythm
of traditional boat songs. At onam,
the time of the harvest festival in
kerala, are held at aranmula and kottayam
as well.
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Commercial town and capital city of
state called Karnataka. The cleanest
city of the Country. The city has
two beautiful parks called Lalbagh
and Cuppon park occupy the maximum
land area of the city. vidhana soudha
- at present Legislative Assembly
of the State. Radha Krishna Temple
is new temple and very much eye catching,
one of the clean, modern temple of
the Country.
Bull Temple: Bangalores
oldest temples.
The Vidhana Saudha: Vidhana Soudha
houses the state Legislative Assembly
and part of the secretariat. The massive,
granite, neo dravidian style building
is one of Bangalores most imposing.
Tipu Sultan's Palace:
The Palace which is built of teakwood.
Lalbagh: This botanical
garden, spread over 240 acres.
Cubbon Park: In a
city of gardens that bangalore is,
the cubbon is a premier attraction
for all those who seek some respite
from the busy metropolitan life here.
This 120 hectare park, laid out in
1864 is one of the main lungs of the
city.
Sri Gavi Gangadhareswara Temple:
On January 14th every year, something
extraordinary happens in Bangalore's
Gavi Gangadgareswara temple. On that
day a ray of sunlight passes through
an arch between the horns of stone
bull that stands outside the temple
and lights up the idol inside.
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Belur, Halabid the smallest sized
temples are superb example for richest
collection of sculptors. The sand
stone used temple, star shaped base
provided beautiful presentation of
sculpture represents the astonishing
intricasies of sculptor unfold the
unrivalled skill of the master sculpture
and builders.
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Lord Nataraja is said to have performed
his cosmic dance in this place and
there is a unique temple dedicated
to this form of shiva. The complex
is said to be the oldest in Southern
India. It covers 13 hectares and has
four Gopuram. Two of the Gopuram are
carved with the 108 classical postures
of nataraja, shiva in his role as
the cosmic dancer. Other notable features
of the temple are the 1000 pillared
hall, the nritta sabha court carved
out like a gigantic chariot, and the
image of nataraja himself in the inner
sanctum.
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Is the palm-green commercial town
of Kerala and one of the finest natural
harbors in the world. Boat tour is
conducted to see few islands. Chances
are there to witness "kathakali"
dance, the famous classical dance
of kerala. In kerala the food also
differ and culture too.
Santa cruz basilica: This
large impreseive church dates from
1902, and has a fantastical pastel
- coloured interior. Chinese fishing
nets strung out along the tip of fort
cochin, these fixed, cantilevered
fishing nets were introduced by traders
from te court of kublai khan.
Mattancherry palace:
Built by the portuguese. More important
are the astonishing murals, depicting
scenes from the ramayana, mahabaratha
and puranic legends connected with
shiva, vishnu, krishna kumara and
durga. These beautiful murals rarely
seem to be mentioned, although they
are one of the wonders of inda. Jewish
synagogue: in the old quarter at mattancherry,
narrow lanes lined by street houses
lead to the jewish synagogue. This
simple building built in 1567, has
a rich interior with gleaming brass
and chandeliers in colours glass.
The floor is tiled with blue patterned
tiles brought in the 18th century
from canton.
Dutch palace: the
dutch palace of the cochin rajas.
Exquisite murals depicting scenes
from the ramayana and the puranic
legends decorate some of its rooms.
St. Francis church:
Built in 1503 by the portuguese, franciscan
friars, it is the oldest european
church in the subcontinent.
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Large industry city. Marudamalai Murugan
temple on small Hilltop
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Is a popular health retreat for families
who come to stand the bathe under
waterfalls believed to a rich in minerals
and containing curative qualities.
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Gao’s hundred odd kilometer’s
of coastline has some of the best
beaches in the country and the finest
beach resorts. In the picturesque
villages along the coast with white
washed churches and red tiled houses.
North goa has the state capital, panaji
the former capital of old goa, with
its world heritage churches and cathedrals
and string beaches that runs right
up the cost to maharastra.
Panaji: built on
the south bank of the wide mandovi
river, panaji officially became the
capital of goa in 1854.
Beaches: north goa
beaches, some of them edged with red
laterite cliffs include calangute,
candolim, baga, vagator, anjuna and
charpora. The southern beaches, noted
for their sparkling white sand and
calm sea include bogmalo, colva, benaulim,
betul and palolem - idyllic beaches
with splendid opportunities for sailing
and wind surfing.
Old Goa: the old
portuguese capital of goa further
up river has fine baroque churches
with lavishly ornamented and gilded
altars. The basilica of bom jesus
where the body of st. Francis xavier
rests in its silver and glass casket,
of St. Francis of assisi are the most
important.
Temples: near the
town of ponda are temples built in
a style that is exclusive to goa with
baroque interiors and unusual, ornate
deepmals, tall lamp towers. The best
known are the manguesh, nagesh and
shanta durga temples.
Margao: margao is
the capital of salcete taluka and
the main centre of south goa. It is
pleasant provincial town which still
displays reminders of its portuguese
past.
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This glorious town of hoyssala empire
is 16 km from belur, which is also
known as dwarasamudra. Noted for its
exquisite temples, the most imposing
is the hoysalaswara temple. The most
magnificent parts of the temple are
its outer walls, every inch of which
have been covered with friezes of
amazing variety. This ranks as one
of the most outstanding examples of
hoysala art.
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The magnificent ruined city of hampi
was once the capital of the powerful
Vijayanagara kings. Located in a boulder
strewn landscape on the banks of the
tungabhadra are the temples, palaces
and structures of this beautiful “city
of victory”. Among it’s
splendid monuments are the vittala
temple with its fine sculpture, musical
pillars and the famous stone chariot,
the purandaradasa mandapa and the
graceful lotus mahal. Hampi is one
of the most fascinating historical
sites in south india. Set in a strange
and beautiful boulder-strewn landscape,
the remnants of the great city have
an almost magical quality, and the
sheer size of the site is awesome.
Thriving travelers centre and most
people stay at least a couple of days
to soak up the atmosphere and explore.
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Traditionally Hassan has been teh
most convenient base from which tyo
explore Belur, Halabid and Sravanabelagola.
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Many people who come to see the Vijayanagar
ruins at Hampi use Hospet as a base.
Its a fairly typical Karnataka Country
town .
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Is famous for its temples. There are
1008 temple been built by the ancient
rulers and it is known as temple city
of India. We will be visiting few
important temple of the city for the
art, architecture as well as religious
beauty. One of the seven sacred cities
of India. While the other cities are
dedicated to either shiva or vishnu,
Kancheepuram is a unique in that it
is dedicated to both. The Pallava
dynasity established kancheepuram
as its capital and under its rule
Kancheepuram was to witness a prospering
of the arts, especially in the fields
of literature, music and dance. The
first South Indian stone temples were
constructed.
Kailasanatha temple:
reflects the freshness and simplicity
of early dravidian architecture.
Ekambreeswarar temple: one
of the largest temples in Kancheepuram,
covering 9 hectares.
Kamatchi amman temple:
dedicated to the Goddess Parvati,
the temple has a Golden Gopuram in
the center.
Devarajaswami Temple:
this is an enormous monument.
Vedanthangal bird sanctuary:
an important breeding ground for water
birds, cormorants. Egrets, herons,
storks, ibises, spoonbills, grebes
and pelicans come here to breed and
nest for about six months.
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Is the Southern - Most tip of the
Indian Peninsula, Lands end of the
Indian subcontinent. The spot where
three seas - Indian Ocean, The Bay
of Bengal and the Arabian Sea meet.
Kanyakumari is noted for its marvelous
beaches and spectacular sunrises and
sunsets.
Kumari amman temple: Pictures quely
situated overlooking the shore.
Gandhi memorial: Striking memorial
stored the mahatmas ashes until they
were immersed into the sea.
Suchindram: At suchindram is an unusual
temple dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu,
and Brahma. The temple is noted for
its huge hanuman statue and musical
pillars.
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The prettiest hill station in south
india. The little town is set around
a star shaped lake. Green wooded hills,
scenic walks and waterfalls make it
a beautiful summer retreat an altitude
of 2100m.
Lake: In a green
hollow, among the hills is the Kodaikannal
lake.
Boating and horse riding:
The lake at a kodai has been wonderfully
lanscaped and boats can be hired.
The coaker's walk:
A little road that meanders along
the edge of the Kodaikannal ridge,
offers a marvelous view of the plains.
Scenic spots: There
are tall rock outcrops, at the pillar
rocks and breathtaking views from
perumal peak. In the wooded hills
around Kodaikannal are the bearshola,
silver cascade and fairy falls - pretty
water falls that are picnic spots.
Parks & falls:
Bryant park a botanical park laid
out, landscaped and stocked over many
years by the british after whom it
is named.
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Is famous for its clean beach Peaceful
& non polluted. Rest the mind
and soul beyond your dream 16 km a
sheltered bay endowed with unusual
beauty. This natural bay is a safe
see-poll free from high waves and
surges. The drive from Trivendrum
to the beach through groves of palms
is refreshing. Thirty Years ago Kovalam
was a hippy idylly a picture prefect
tropical fresh fish, fruit and toddy
( Coconut Beer ). Kovalam retains
a certain charm and is still popular
with backpacking travellers carving
some rest and recreation on the long
haul across the subcontinent.
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This bird sanctuary on Vembanad lake
is 16 km west of Kottayam in a former
rubber plantation. Local water fowl
can be seen in abundance, as well
as over wintering migratory species,
Recently, several luxury resorts have
opened at Kumarakom.
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Kumbakonam is one of the holiest places
in south india, held sacred by both
the vaishnavites and the saivites.
Has about eighteen temples. The mahamagam
tank is wel known for the masi maham
festival which takes place once in
12 year.
Kumbheswara temple: The
town of kumbakonam derives its name
from its presiding deity-lord kumbheswara.
Nageshwara temple:
This shiva temple contains a separate
shrine for the sun, who is said to
have worshipped lord shiva at this
place.
Ramaswami temple:
The 'mahamandapa' in front of the
temple has several fine sculptures
of vamana-trivikrama, vishnu with
his consorts sridevi and bhudevi and
of the marriage of parvati.
Sarangapani temple:
The main sanctum is constructed in
the style of a charriot or ratha.
Mahamagham tank:
This tank is the venue for the famous
mahamagham festival which takes place
once in 12 years when jupiter passes
the constellation of leo.
Gangaikondacholapuram:
Gangaikondacholapuram are some striking
sculptures of mahisasuramardini, nataraja,
ardhanariswara, chandikeshwara, etc.
Darasuram: Darasuram
contains ancient temples of great
architectural merit. The airavateswara
temple is the most important of them
all.
Swamimalai: This
is one of the six abodes of lord subramanya
/ muruga.
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The largest city in southern india
located on the coromandel coast of
the bay of bengal, developed after
1639 when the British East India company
established a fort and trading port
at the small fishing village of Chennai.
Therefore Madras is again renamed
as Chennai. besides the modern city
itself, there are several interesting
towns like Mamallapuram and Kanchipuram,
each with a rich collection of ancient
temples and an array of traditional
handicrafts which are very much their
own.
Fort St. George: Built
by the East India company in 1639-1640,
the fort marks the beginning of Madras
as a modern city. Built around 1653
by the British East India company,
the fort has undergone much alteration.
Presently houses the secretariat and
legislative assembly.
Fort Museum: This
museum contains many relics pertaining
to the tenure of the East India company
and British India. Included is a picture
of Sir Arthur Havelock (Governor of
Madras in 1896) painted by Ravi Varma.
This self taught artist produced many
paintings, often on mythological themes.
St. Mary's Church:
This is the oldest anglican church
in Asia. Built in 1678 - 80, was the
first English church in Madras and
is the oldest surviving British church
in India.
National Art Gallery and Government
Museum: Well worth a visit
the buildings originally belonged
to a group of eminent British citizens,
known as the pantheon committee. the
main building has an excellent archaeological
section also houses a good ethnology
collection. Has a superb collection
of Chola Bronze.
Film Studios: The
film industry in Chennai is now bigger
than the Bolywood (Mumbai).
The Marina Beach : This is
supposed to be the Second Longest
Beach in the world and runs to a length
of 12 km.
Kapaleeswarar Temple:
This ancient Shiva temple, was constructed
in pure Dravidian style and displays
the same architectural elements -
Gopuram, Mandapam, a tank.
Santhome Cathedral :
Roman Catholic church is said to house
the remains of St. Thomas the apostle
(doubting thomas).
St. Thomas Mount: The
small hillock is believed to be the
place where the apostle was killed
by his assassins.
The Snake Park and Children's Park:
The Snake Park will intereuarters.
Elliots Beach: This
Beach is comparatively quieter.
Valluvar Kottam:
Erected in memory of the poet saint
Thiruvalluvar, the shrine constructed
after the temple car of Thiruvarur.
Cholamandal Artists :
This an Independent Community about
30 artisans dedicated to the practice
and development of contemporary art.
Dakshinchitra : The
Village is a showcase of traditional
art, craft, architecture and lifestyle
from the four states of south india.
Muthukadu : The boat
house.
Kovalam: Also known
as Covelong is a fishing settlement
with a fine beach.
Crocodile Bank: Can
see crocs and alligators of all sizes
as well as turtles.
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Madurai is another of Tamil nadu’s
ancient cities, situated on the Vaigai
river. Two thousand years ago, Madurai
was the great capital of the Pandya
kings and a center of tamil culture
and learning. Today, it is a lively
bustling city and a commercial center.
Sri Meenakshi: temple
in the heart of the old town, a riotously
baroque example of dravidian architecture
with gopuram covered from top to bottom
in a breathtaking profusion of multicoloured
images of gods, goddesses, animals
and mythical figures. Madurai is an
ancient city. Tamil and greek documents
record its existence from the 4th
century bc.
Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple:
This temple has numerous mandapas,
immense gopuram crowded with painted
figures, and a set of pillars that
emit musical notes when tapped.
Tirumalai Nayak Palace:
a gracious building in the indo saracenic
style famous for the stude work on
its domes and arches.
Thiruparamkundram:
lord murugan temple, one of the arupadaiveedu
(six abode) of lord muruga.
Palamuthirsolai :
lord murugan temple, one of the arupadaiveedu
(six abode) of lord muruga.
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The rock carvings at Mamallapuram
are notable for the delightful freshness
and simplicity of their folk art origins,
in contrast to the more grandiose
monuments build by later larger empires
such as the Cholas. The shore temple
in particular strikes a very romantic
theme and is one of the most photographed
monuments in India. It and all the
other places of interest in Mamalapuram,
are floodlit each night. The sculpture
here is particularly interesting because
it shows scenes of day to day life
- Women milking buffaloes, pompous
city dignitaries, young girls primping
and posing at street corners or swinging
their hips in artful come-ons. In
contrast, other carvings throughout
the state depict mostly gods and goddesses,
with images of ordinary folk conspicuous
by their absence. Stone carving is
still very much a living craft in
Mamallapuram.
Five Rathas: (The
five rathas are 1. Draupadi ratha,
2. Arjuna Ratha, 3. Bhima Ratha, 4.
Dharmaraja Ratha, 5. Nakula Sahadeva
Ratha. ) The five rathas are sculptured
temples in the style of chariots(Rathas).
Set close by the Sea they are carved
from Solid rock. Popular belief is
that the chariots depict the story
of the pandava brothers, heroes of
the Mahabharata.
Krishna Mandapam:
It features carvings of a pastoral
scene.
Shore Temple: This beautiful and romantic
temple ravaged by wind and sea, represents
the final phase of Pallava art. The
temple is approached through paved
gardens with weathered walls supporting
long lines of Nandi statues (Nandi
is Shiva’s bull vehicle).
Arjuna Penance: Carved
in relief on the face of a huge rock,
Arjuna’s penance is the mythical
story of the River Ganges issuing
from its source high in the Himalays.
The panel (27m by 9m) depicst animals
deities and other semi divine creatures,
fables from the Panchantantra and
Arjuna doing a penance to obtain a
boon from Shiva. Ganesh Ratha, Mahishamardhini
Mandapam & Olakkaneswvara Temple,
Dharmaraja Mandap.
Tirukkalikundram:
Which means hill of the holy eagles.
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Mangalore has been a trading centre
for many centuries some historians
even point to a text by pliny as evidence
than the city was well known to travellers
in the 1st century. Little is known
of its early history, but it appears
to have been ruled for a considerable
time by a tribe known as the alupas.
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In the luxuriant forested foot hills
of the Nilgiris, this 321 Sq Kms sanctuary
is part of a much larger reserve (3000
sq Km) which includes Bandipur and
Wynad in neighbouring Karnataka and
Kerala. The larger reserve ranges
in vegetation from semi-evergreen
forests to swamps and grasslands.
In Mudumalai, the mostly dense forest
is home to Chital (spotted Deer),
Gaur (Indian Bison), tiger, panther,
wild boar and sloth bear. Otters and
crocodiles inhabit the Moyar river.
Mudumalai is mostly tropical dry and
moist mixed deciduous forest, with
some bamboo, sandalwood and teak.
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This beautiful hill station has gentle
hills covered with velvety tea plantations,
forests, reservoirs and a small wildlife
sanctuary in the vicinity. It is 3
hours by road from kochi. Munar set
amid south india, most dramatic mountain
scenery in whar was once known as
the ‘high range of travancore’,
the tiny hill town of Munnar (152m)
is the commercial centre of some of
the worlds highest tea growing estates.
The stone christ church (1910). Inside
the well kept church are touching
brass plaques in memory of the tea
planters. While the walks out of Munnar
in any direction offer spectacular
views, Eravikulam national park where
you can see the rare, but almost tame,
nilgiri that ( a type of mountain
goat), or a clamber over the slopes
of Anamudi which is South India highest
peak.
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Wonderful historic town and evidence
city to exhibit the oldest indian
richest economy. The palace is marvelous.
The palaces are treasure for richness,
art and architecture. It is historically
a great battle field for a brave king
Tipu Sultan. The fort and palace of
Tippu Sultan can be seen at the ruined
city of sri rangapatnam 10 kms away.
Brindavan Garden: These tranquil
ornamental gardens, laid out below
these immense Krishnaraja Sargar dam,
look like they belong in a tidy European
spa resort rather than the south of
India. The gardens are a popular picnic
spot and crowds come each night to
see the illuminated fountains.
Palaces: The old
Mysore palace still has all its trappings
of royalty. The lalitha mahal palace,
built in the impressive indo-sarcenic
style, is now a hotel.
Mysore Palace: The
beautiful profile of this walled indo
saracenic palace, the seat of the
maharahas of Mysore, graces, the city's
skyline.
Chamundi Hills: Standing
up in a little hill, with a commanding
view of the city, is the temple to
Chamundeshwari, the patron deity of
the city.
Mysore zoo: Has one
of india's better kept zoo.
Jagmohan Palace & Art
Gallery: The Jayachamarajendra
art gallery in the jagmohan palace,
just west of mysore palace, has a
collection of kitsch objects and wodeyar
memorabilia, including weird and wonderful
musical machines, rare instruments
and paintings by raja ravi varma.
The palace was build in 1861 and served
as a royal auditorium. Its open daily.
Srirangapatna (14 km):
The little island fortress of Tipu
Sultan, who was once known as the
"tiger of mysore". His summer
palace, the daria daulat, has beautiful
wall paintings. An island in the cauvery
river, stand the ruins of the capital
for which hyderali and Tipu Sultan
the British finally conquered them
with the help of disgruntled local
leaders. Tippus defeat marked the
real beginning of British territorial
expansion in Southern India.
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The Queen of hill stations, is situated
in the Nilgiris at an altitude of
2,240 mts. Udhagamandalam or Ooty,
as it is commonly known, is the most
popular hill station in habitude by
the todas, the tribal people whose
belief system and practices centre
on the buffalo today only about 1500
todas remain. Until about two decades
ago, Ooty (altitude 2240m) resembled
an unlikely combination of southern
england australia. The other main
reminders of the British period are
the stone churches, the private schools,
the ooty cub, and the terraced botanical
gardens. Maharaja summer palaces hark
back to yet another time.
Lake: The beautiful
ooty lake, set among groves of eucalyptus
trees is a popular spot with its facilities
for boating.
Botanical Gardens:
The lovely landscaped garden has rolling
lawns, exotic trees, lily pools, a
bandstand and massed flower beds.
Scenic spots: A lovely
view of ooty can be had from its highest
point, the doddabetta peak. Other
picturesque spots in the vicinity
are mukurti peak, the pykara dam and
reservoir, wenlock downs, kalhatti
falls and elk hill.
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Lord Murugan Temple:
One of the six abode of lord murugan.
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Living monument of French culture
in india. The french influence is
still to be seen in the red kepis
of the policemen, and in the marvelous
white buildings in the old section
of the town.
Sri Aurobindo Asharamam:
Founded by Sri Arabindo in 1926 this
ashram is one of the most popular
in India with westerners, and also
one of the affluent. It spiritual
tenets represent a synthesis of yoga
and modern science.
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Prasanthi Nilayam, the main Asharam
of Shri Sathya sai Baba is in Puttaparthy.
Known as the abode of Highest peace.
The Asharam is spacious and beautiful
with good food and accommodation -
at least when the numbers aren’t
overwhelming. Sai Baba spends most
of the year here but sometimes moves
to white fields.
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The sacred island town of Rameswaram
at the extreme south-eastern limit
of the Indian Peninsula, has one of
India’s most venerated temples.
According to the Hindu epic ‘Ramayana’,
Rama sanctified this place by worshipping
Lord Shiva here, after the war against
Ravana and is therefore held sacred
by both Shaivities also Known as the
Varanasi of the South.
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The Big temple is big in all aspects.
Here the Sculptor himself has played
with Art. Nobody can even imagine
to build such a massive structure
even today. Thanjavur was once the
great capital of the cholas. It was
Raja Raja Chola, the empire builder,
who also erected the most spectacular
of the Thanjavur temples, whole structure
is a tribute to the genius of Chola
architects and builders.
Brihadishware Temple &
Fort: Brihadishware Temple
is the crowning glory of Chola temple
architecture. The superb and fascinating
monument is one of only a handful
in India with world Heritage listing
and is worth a couple of visits.
Saraswathi Mahal Library:
It is next door to gallery. Established
around 170 AD the library contains
a collection of over 30,000 palm leaf,
and paper manuscripts in Indian and
European languages.
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The beautiful temple of lord Venkateswara,
located in the cool of the Tirumalai
hills, close to the town of Tirupati,
is an important place of pilgrimage.
The temple _ a masterpiece of dravidian
architecture has a gilded vimana over
the sanctum. At Tiruchanur (10 Kms.)
Is The Shrine To The Goddess Alamelumanga,
The Consort Of Lord Venkateswara.
The holy hill of Thirumala in the
extreme south of Andra Pradesh is
one of the most important pilgrimage
centres in India, and is claimed to
be the busiest in the world - eclipsing
Jerusalem, Rome and Mecca in the sheer
number of pilgrims.
Venkateswara Temple:
Pilgrims flock to Tirumala to visit
the ancient temple of Venkateshwara,
an avatar of Vishnu. Among the powers
attributed to Venkateswara is the
granting of any wish that is made
in front of the idol at Tirumala.
The image is said to be self - created
and immortal. Such popularity makes
the temple one of the richest in India,
with an annual income of a staggering
one billion rupees.
Sri Padmavathi Amman Temple:
Down the hill from the main temple
is one to the deity’s consort,
Lakshmi.
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To see wild animals particularly elephant
(large nos.), When you go for boat
ride in the lake around the forest
area. Stay in the jungle is very adventuring
and very interesting. Periyar is south
india most popular wild life sanctuary
.
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The small town of Thiruvannamalai,
sits at the base of Arunachala Hill.
In this temple Shiva is revered as
Arunachaleswar, an aspect of fire
- the light, which destroys the darkness
of ignorance one of the largest in
India.
Sri Ramanasramam Ashram: Sri Ramana
Maharishi, a Guru who died in 1950
after nearly 50 years in peaceful
and often silent contemplation (including
20 years in caves on the slopes of
Arunachala).
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Dominating the city of thiruchirapalli,
is the magnificent fort, built on
an immense rock formation over 84m
high. Trichy, an ancient town in the
cauvery delta, was a chola citadel
in 2bc.
Rock fort: A spectacular
monument perched 83 m high was first
hewn by the pallavas who cut small
cave temples into the southern face,
but it was the nayaks who made use
of its naturally fortified position.
Sri Rangantahtswamy Temple:
The superb temple complex at Srirangam
about 3 km north of the rock fort
is situated on an island formed by
two arms of the cauvery river.
Sri Jambukeshwara Temple:
Temple has five concentric walls and
seven gopuram, with the customary
decrease unsize towards the sanctum
sanctorium.
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Built over seven forested hills, Trivendrum
(City of the Sacred Serpent) is small
relaxed compared with other Indian
State Capitals.
Sri Padmabnabhasamy temple:
Trivendrum’s most interesting
temple is open to Hindus only and
even they must wear a dothi or sari,
Still is worth visiting even if you
just passing through town see the
temples seven storey carved gopuram
reflected in the nearby sacred tank.
Constructed in the Dravidian style
by a Maharaja of Travancore in 1733,
the temple is dedicated to Vishnu,
who reclines on the sacred serpent,
Ananda, which gives Thiruvananthapuram
its name.
Napier Museum: Displays
an eclectic assortment of bronzes,
historical and contemporary ornaments,
temple carts, ivory carvings and life
size figures of Kathakali dancers
in full costume.
Zoological Gardens: One among the
best designed in Asia - set among
woodland, lakes, and well maintained
lawns - but some of the animals enclosures.
Padmanabhapuram Palace :
The palace is superbly constructed
of local teak and granite, and stands
within massive stone town walls. The
architecture is exquisite, with rosewood
ceilings carved in floral patterns,
windows laid with jewel floral patterns,
windows laid with jewel coloured mica,
and floors finished to a high polish
with a special compound of crushed
shells, coconuts egg white an the
juices of local plants.
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A famous Roman Catholic Basilica of
our lady of Good health
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North
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Has long been renowned as the city
of the taj mahal. This has often overshadowed
the fact that this royal mughal city
has, in addition to the legendary
taj, many magnificent monuments that
epitomise the high point of mughal
architectural achievement.
The Chosen City:
Agra was the chosen city of the mughal
emperors during the early years. It
was here that the founder of the dynasty,
babur, laid out the first formal persian
garden on the banks of the river yamuna.
A Monument to Love:
The taj mahal stands serene and perfect
in its garden of cypresses and reflecting
pools on the banks of the river yamuna.
Its pure white marble shimmers silver
in the moonlight, glows softly pink
at dawn, and at close of day reflects
the fiery tints of the setting sun.
the taj in all its timeless beauty
is still the inspiration of poets
and painters, writers and photographers.
And lovers still meet here in the
moonlight in the shadow of the world's
most famous monument to love. Shahjehan
built the taj in memory of mumtaz
mahal who died giving birth to their
14th child. No cost was spared to
make it the most beautiful monument
the world had ever seen. While marble
and red sandstone, silver and gold,
carnelian and jasper, moonstone and
jade, lapiz lazuli and coral were
fashioned by 20,000 skilled workers
to make the emperor's dream a reality.
It took 22 years to complete - a symbol
of eternal love where shahjehan too
lies buried, re-united at last with
his beloved mumtaz. Set at the north
end of a formal persian garden with
water courses, paved walkways and
rows of dark cypresses, the taj rises
on a high red sandstone base topped
by a huge white marble terrace, its
flawless double dome flanked by four
tapering minarets. Within lies the
jewel-inlaid cenotaph of the queen,
and a little to one side - the only
asymmetrical feature in the taj -
the richly decorated casket of the
emperor. At the time of the moghuls,
in the 16th and 17th centuries agra
was the capital of india, and its
superb monuments date from that era.
Agra has a magnificent fort and the
building which many people come to
india solely to see the taj mahal.
Taj Mahal: If there's
a building which represents a country
- like the Eiffel Tower for France,
the Sydney Opera house for Australia
- then it has to be the Taj Mahal
for India. This most famous Moghul
monument was constructed by Emperor
Shah jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz
Mahal, the 'lady of the Taj'. It has
been described as the most extravagant
monument ever build for love for the
emperor was heartbroken when Mumtaz,
to whom he had been married for 17
years, died in 1629 in childbirth,
after producing 14 children.
Agra fort: Construction
of the massive Agra Fort was begun
by Emperor Akbar in 1565, and additions
were made up until the time of his
grandson, Shah Jahan. While in Akbar's
time the fort was principally a military
structure, by Shah jahan's time it
had become partially a palace,. A
visit to the fort is an Agra must
since so many of the events which
let to the construction of the Taj
took place here. There are many fascinating
buildings inside the massive walls
which stretch for 21/2 km, surrounded
by a moat over 10 meters wide. The
fort is on the banks of the Yamuna
River and only the amar singh Gate
to the south is open. Inside, the
fort is really a city within the city.
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A 7th century city and a place of
muslim pilgrimage is situated at the
foot of the hill, Ajajmeru. This city
was founded by raja ajay pal chauhan
and remained the seat of chauhan dynasty
till 1193 when prithvi raj chauhan,
the last hindu ruler was defeated
by mohammed ghori. Ranthambore in
rajasthan bears evidence of rich tradition
of bravery and hardiness of the people
of rajasthan. The ranthambore wild
life national park has a variety of
fauna including a tiger reserve which
is a naturalists delight 400 sq. South
of jaipur is ajmer, a green oasis
on the shore of the ana sagar, hemmed
in by barren hills. Historically,
ajmer always had great strategic importance
and was sacked by mahmud of ghazni
on one of his periodic forays from
afghanistan. Later, it became a favorite
residence of the great moghuls. one
of the first contacts between the
moghuls and the british occurred in
ajmer when sir thomas roe met with
jehangir here in 1616. Ajmer is a
major centre of muslim pilgrims during
the fast of ramadan. But, although
it has some superb examples of early
muslim architecture, a fort overlooking
the town and a lively bazaar. Ajmer
is just a stepping stone to nearby
pushkar for most travelers.
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Allahabad Acquired Its Present Name
During The Rule Of The Mughal Empror
Akbar. Known As Prayag Since Ancient
Times, Allahabad Is One Of The Holy
Cities Of The Hindus. Located At The
Sangam Or Confluence Of The Sacred
Rivers Ganga, Yamuna And The Mythical
Saraswathi, It Is The Site Of The
Famous Kumbh Mela That Is Held Every
12 Years.
Sangam: At this point
the shallow, muddy Ganges (about two
km wide meets the clearer, deeper,
green yamuna. During the month of
Magha (mid - January to Mid - February)
hundreds of thousands of pilgrims
come to bathe at thisholy confluence
for the festival known as the magh
Mela. Astologers calculate the holiest
time to enter the wate and draw up
a holy dip schedule. The most propitions
time of all happen only every 12 years
when the massive kumbh mela takes
place. There’s a half Mela 9Ardh
Mela) every six years.
The Fort : Built
In 1583 By The Emperor Akbar, The
Impressive Fort Overlooks The River.
Patalpure Temple & undying
tree: The underground Patalpuri
Temple and the Undying Banyan tree.
Also known as Akshai veta, this tree
is mentioned by Hiuen Tsang, who tells
of pilgrims sacrificing their lives
by leaping to their deaths from it
in order to seek salvation.
Anand Bhavan : The
Home Of The Nehru Family, Where Historic
Meetings Were Held And Strategies
Were Evolved During The Indian Struggle
For Independence.
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A desert city, is situated on an elevated
ground and surrounded by a seven kilometers
long embatted wall pierced by five
gates. The magnificent fort, imposing
temples of red and yellow sand stone
display some of the finest creations
of Rajput civilization.
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Present Capital of India and Capital
of Kingdoms and Empires. Now, a sprawling
metropolis with a fascinating blend
of the past and the present. A perfect
introduction to the composite culture
of an Ancient land. A window to the
Kaleidoscope that is India. Delhi,
one of India’s fastest growing
cities, has spread far beyond the
"Seven Cities" created between
the 13th and the 17th centuries.
Rashtrapati Bhawan:
Was raised on Raisina hill. Nearby
are India Gate, a World War I memorial,
Parliament House, The Prestigious
National Museum and the National Gallery
of Modern Art. On Republic Day, Rajpath
witnesses a display of Pageantry.
The Classy commercial centre of Connaught
Place was planned as part of New Delhi.
Along with Stalls on Janpath, and
Emporia on Baba Kharak Singh Marg,
It is a Shopper’s Paradise.
Rather characteristically, an 18th
century Masonry Observatory.
Red fort: The red
sandstone walls of Lal Qila the Red
Fort, extend for two kms and vary
in height from 18 metres on the river
side to 33 metres on the city side.
Shah Jahan started construction of
the massive fort in 1638 and it was
completed in 1648. He never completely
moved his capital from Agra to his
new city deposed and imprisoned in
Agra Fort by his son Aurangazeb. The
Red fort dates from the very peak
of Moghul power. When the emperor
rode out on elephant - back into the
streets of old Delhi it was a display
of pomp and power at its most magnificent.
The moghul reign from Delhi was a
short one, however, Aurangazeb was
the first and last great Moghul emperor
to rule from here.
RajGhat : A simple
square platform of black Marble marks
the spot where Mahatma Gandhi was
cremated following his assassination
in 1948.
Lakshmi Narayan Temple:
This garish modern temple was erected
by the industrial Birla in 1938. It’s
dedicated to Lakshmi, the goddess
of prosperity and good fortune, and
is commonly known as Birla Mandir.
India Gate: The 42-metre
high stone arch of triumph stands
at the eastern end of the Rajpath.
It bears the name of 85000 India Army
soldiers who died in the campaigns
of WW I.
Rastrapati Bhawan:
The official residence of the President
of India stands at the opposite end
of the Rajpath from India Gate. Completed
in 1929, the palace like building
is a blend of Moghul and Western architectural
styles, the most obvious Indian feature
being the huge copper dome. The west
of the building is a Mughal garden
which occupies 130 hectares, and this
is open to the public in February.
Parliament House: Sansad
Bhavan, the Indian parliament building,
stands almost hidden building is a
circular colonnaded structure 171
metres in diameter. Its relative physical
insignificance in the grand scheme
of New Delhi shows how the focus of
power has shifted from the viceroys
residence, which was given pride of
place during the time of the British
Raj when New Delhi was conceived.
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Hardwar, where
the river ganga descends into the
plains of pilgrimage. The kumbh
mela is held here once every 12
years.
Har ki pauri: At
har ki pauri are the ghats where
pilgrims take a sacred dip in the
river. The evening ‘arti’
is pretty, for devotees float little
oil lamps on the water.
Temples: The most
important temple in hardwar is the
daksha mahadev temple. Other temples
and ashrams of intrest include the
sapt rishi ashram, the parmnath
ashram and the mansa devi temple.
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The City-Capital In The Tone Of An
Autumnal Sunset, Literally Blushed
Pink When Prince Albert, The Consort
Of Queen Victoria, Stepped On Its
Soil In 1883. Interspersing The Play
Of Red And Pink Were White Borders
And Motifs, Painstakingly Outlining
The Architectural Highlights Of Jaipur’s
Buildings. Interestingly, The Royal
Family, Earlier Residence, At Amber,
Was Only 11 Km Away, And Had Been
Since The 10th Century. Jaipur Was
And Remains The Only City In The World
Symbolizing The Nine Divisions Of
The Universe Through Nine Rectangular
Sectors Subdividing It. Jaipur Is
A Royal City, And This Is Its Most
Noticeable Aspect. Buildings Testify
To It. Festivals Testify To It. Its
Palace Hotels Testify To It. The Life
Patterns Of Its Society Testify To
It. The Pink City, the capital of
Rajasthan State was built in the early
18th Century by Maharaja Jai Singh
II, is a walled city with seven gates.
Its six rectangular sections have
wide well paved main roads and streets
with spacious market squares at all
cross roads. Popularly known as the
pink city because of the pink paint
applied to the buildings in its old
walled city. ( In rajput culture,
pink was traditionally colour associated
with hospitality.) In contrast to
the cities on the ganges plain, Jaipur
has broad avenues and a remarkable
harmony. The city sits on a dry lake
bed ina wild and somewhat arid landscape,
surrounded by barren hill surmounted
by fortresses and crenellated walls.
Jaipur long ago outstripped the conginees
of its city wall yet retains a less
crowded and more relaxed atmosphere
than its large size and population
might suggest.
City Palace: This
Former Royal Residence Is An Imposing
Blend Of Traditional Rajasthan And
Mughal Architecture And Craftsmanship.
In the heart of the old city, the
city palace occupies a large area
divided into a series of courtyards,
gardens and buildings. The former
Maharaja still lives in part of the
palace. The seven - storey Chandra
Mahal is the centre of the palace
and commands fine views over the gardens
and the city. The ground and 1st floor
of the Chandra Mahal form the maharaja
Sawai Man sing II Museum. The apartments
are maintained in luxurious order
and the museum has an extensive collection
of art, carpets, enamel ware and old
weapons. The paintings include miniatures
of the Rajasthani, Moghul and persia
schools. The armory has a collection
of guns and swords dating back to
the 15th century, as well a s many
of the ingenious and tricky weapons
for which the warriors Rajputs were
famous. The textile section contains
dresses and costumes of the former
maharajas and maharanis of Jaipur.
Jantar Mantar: Adjacent
to the entrance of the city palace
is the Jantar Mantar, or observatory,
begun by Jai singh in 1728. Jai singh’s
passion for astronomy was even more
notable than his prowess as a warrior
and before commencing construction,
he sent scholars abroad to study foreign
observatory is. The Jaipur observatory
is the largest and the best preserved
of the five he build, and was resorted
in 1901. At first glance, Jantar Mantar
appears to be just a curious collection
of sculptures but, Infact, each construction
has specific purpose, such as a measuring
the positions of stars, altitudes
and azimuths, or calculating eclipses.
The most striking instrument is the
sundial with its 30 metre - high.
The shadow this casts moves up to
four metres an hour.
Jal Mahal: As Its
Name Denotes, This Is A Palace Built
Amidst A Lake And Intended As The
Summer Resort For The Royal Family.
The Palace Is Noted For Its Intricate
Architecture.
Amber Palace: In
Earlier Times, The Entire Complex
Was Owned By The Minas And Dedicated
To ‘Amba Mata’, The Incarnation
Of Earth And Fertility. Amber was
once the ancient capital of Jaipur
state. Construction of the fortress
palace was begun in 1592 by Raja Man
singh, the Rajput commander of Akbar’s
army. It was later extended and completed
by the Jai Singhs before the move
to Jaipur on the plains below, The
fort is a superb example of Rajput
architecture, stunningly situated
on a hillside and overlooking a lake
which reflects its terraces and ramparts.
Central Museum: The
museum is housed in the architecturally
impressive Albert Hall in the Ram
Niwas Gardens, south of the old city.
The upper floor contains portraits
of the Jaipur Maharajas and many other
miniatures and art works. The ground
floor has a collection of costumes
and woodwork from different parts
of Rajasthan and a description of
the people and life in the rural areas
of the state. The collection, which
started in 1833, is also notable for
its brass ware, jewellery and pottery.
Gaitor: The cenotaphs
of the royal family are at Gaitor,
6 ½ km from Jaipur on the road
to Amber. The white marble cenotaph
of Maharaja Jai Singh II is the most
impressive and is decorated with carved
peacocks. Next to it is the cenotaph
of his son. Opposite the cenotaphs
is the Jai Mahal Water Palace in the
middle of a lake and reached by a
causeway. Or at least it was in the
middle of a lake, the water is now
all but squeezed out by the einsidious
weed, water hyacinth. There is another
Royal Gaitor just outside the Jaipur
city walls.
Tiger: The Nahargarh Fort over looks
the city from a sheer ridge 6 ½
km away and is floodlit at night.
Jaigarh Fort: The
imposing Jaigarh Fort, built in 1726
by Jaisingh, was only opened to the
punlic in mid 1983. Its within walking
distance of Amber and offers a great
view over the plains from the Diwa
Burj watchtower.
Bharatpur: A must
for those with an interesting ornithology,
Bharatpur is now best known for its
world Heritage p listed bird sanctuary,
the Keoladeo Ghana National Park.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, however,
the town was a Jat strong hold. Before
the arrival of the Rajputs, the Jats
inhabited this area and were able
to retain a high degree of autonomy
both because of their prowess in battle
and because of their powers in battle
and because of their chiefs marriage
alliances with Rajput nobility. They
successfully opposed the moghuls on
more than one occasion and their fort
at Bharatpur, constructed in the 18th
century, withstood and attack by the
British in 1805 and along siege in
1825.
Bird Sanctuary: No
less than 328 kinds of birds have
been sighted at the Keoladeo sanctuary,
117 of which migrate from as far away
as Siberia and China.
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Nothing else in India is remotely
similar to Jaisalmer. Yet this desert
fortress in Straight out of the tales
of the Arabian nights and you could
easily be forgiven for imagining that
you would some how been transported
back to medieval Afghanistan. This
magic, incomparably romantic and totally
unspoiled city has been dubbed the
‘Golden City’ because
of the colour imparted to its stone
ramparts by the setting sun. Centuries
ago, Jaisalmer’s strategic position
on the camel train routes between
India and central Asia brought it
great wealth. The merchants and townspeople
build magnificent houses and mansions,
all exquisitely carved from wood and
from golden-yellow sandstone. These
havel is can be found elsewhere in
Rajasthan but nowhere are they quite
as exotic as in Jaisalmer.
Fort & Palaces:
To the south, on a hill, overlooking
the town lies the fort. Its base is
encircled by a wall of solid stone
blocks a above which the hill projects
and supports the ramparts forming
a double line of defence. Popularly
known as gyab shander. Dadabagh (contains
of the former rulers), patwan ki haveli,
nathman ki haveli, lodherwar, garhi
sagar, amar.
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The temples of Khajuraho are one of
India’s major attractions -
Once a great Chandella capital, Khajuraho
is now just a quite village of just
over 6000 people. The temples are
superb examples of Indo Aryan architecture,
but its the decorations with which
they are so liberally embellished
that has made Khajuraho so famous.
Around the temples are bands of exceedingly
fine and artistic stone work. The
sculptors have shown many aspects
of Indian life 1000 years ago- gods
and goddesses, warriors and musicians,
real and mythological animals. Stone
figures of apsaras or Celestial Maidens
appears on every temple. The mithuna,
erotic figures, running through a
whole Kama Sutra of positions and
possibilities. Some obviously require
amazing athletic contortions, some
just look like good fun. These temples
were build during the Chandella period,
a dynasty which survived for five
centuries before falling to the onslaught
of Islam.
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It Is A Quiet Serene Spot Surrounded
By Hills, Where The Ganga Is Still
A Mountain Stream Making Its Swift
Way Down To The Plains. Rishikesh
Is, As Its Name Implies, A Place For
The Rishis-The Sages And Monks Who
Love In The Ashrams Along The Banks
Of The River. This Town Is A Base
For Pilgrimages Into The Himalayas,
To Places Like Badrinath, Kedarnath
And To Yamunotri And Gangotri-Sources
Of The Yamuna And Ganga. It Is Also
A Beautiful Valley Of Flowers. Inspite
of its claim to being the yoga Capital
of the World’ Rishikesh is a
quieter and more easy going place.
The Triveni Ghat :
is an interesting place to be at dawn,
when people make offerings of milk
to the river and feed the suprisingly
large fish. After sunset priests set
floating lamps on the water in the
Art cermony. Nearby is the Bharat
Mandir, the oldest temple here.
The suspension bridge, Lakshman
Jhula : Rope bridge: This
is where Rama’s brother Lakshmana
is said to have crossed the river
rope and the old Lakshman temple is
on the west bank.
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An Ancient City And An Centre Of Learning
For Over 2000 Years, Varanasi Is The
Holiest Of Pilgrimage Places Located
On The River Ganga.
Ghats: Varanasi’s principal
attraction is the long string of bathing
Ghats which line the west bank of
the Ganges. Ghats are the steps which
lead down to the river, and where,
at the two burning Ghats, bodies are
cremated. Varanasi the eternal city
is one of the most important pilgrimage
sites in India and also a major tourist
attraction. Situated on the banks
of the sacred Ganges, Varanasi has
been a centre of learning and civilisation
for over 2000 years. It was at Saranath
only 10 km away that the Buddha first
preached his message of enlightenment,
25 centuries ago. Later the city became
a great Hindu centre. But was looted
a number of times by Muslims invaders
from the 11th century on. These destructive
visits climaxed with that of the Moghl
emperor, Aurangazeb, who destroyed
almost all the temples and converted
the most famous one into a mosque.
Great Mosque of Aurangzeb
: Constructed using columns
from the Biseswar Temple razed by
Aurangzeb, this great mosque has minarets
towering 71 metres above the Ganges.
Armed guards protect the mosque as
the Indian government wants to ensure
there are no problems between Hindus
and Muslims.
Durga Temple : The
Durga temple is commonly known as
the Monkey temple due to the many
monkeys that have made it their home.
It was build in the 18th century by
a Bengali Maharani and is stained
red with ochre. The small temple is
built in north Indian Nagara style
with a multitiered Sikhara.
Tulsi Manas Temple : Next
to the Durga temple is this modern
marble sikhara-style temple. Built
in 1964, the walls of the temple are
engraved with verses and scenes from
the Ram Chariot manas, the Hindi version
of the Ramayana. This tells of the
history and deeds of Lord Rama, and
incarnation of Vishnu. Its medieval
author, Tulsi Das, lived here while
writing it and died in 1623.
Benares hindu University :
Benares Hindu university (BHU), constructed
at the beginning of the century. The
large university covers an area of
five sq km. The university was founded
by pandit Malaviya as a centre of
education in Indian art, culture and
music and for the study of Sanskrit.
The Bharat Kala Bhavan at the university
has a fine collection of miniature
paintings and also sculptures from
the 1st to 15th centuries. In a room
upstairs there are some old photographs
and a map of Varanasi.
New vishwanath Temple :
Its about 30 minute walk from the
gates.
Alamgir Mosque :
Locally known as Beni Madhav Ka Darera,
this was originally a Vishnu temple
erected by the Maratha Chieftain Beni
Madhav Rao Scindia. Aurangzeb destroyed
it and erected the mosque in its place,
but it is a curious Hindu . Muslim
mixture with the bottom part entirely
Hindu.
Bharat Mata Temple:
Dedicated to ‘Mother India”,
this temple has a marble relief map
of India instead of the usual images
of gods and goddesses. It goes an
excellent impression of the high isolation
of the Tibetan plateau. The temple
was opened by Mahatma Gandhi, and
non Hindus are allowed inside
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Central
India |
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The caves of Ajanta predate those
of Ellora. Ajanta caves are all Buddhist
and whereas at Ellora the caves are
masterpieces of sculpture, at Ajanta
it's the magnificent paintings for
which the caves are famous. In 1819
a British hunting party stumbled upon
them, and their remote beauty was
soon unveiled. Their isolation had
contributed to the finest of preservation
in which some of the paintings remain
to this day. The caves are cut into
the steep face of a deep rock gorge.
There are 20 caves in a curve of the
gorge, and there is a good viewpoint
across the ravine.
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Aurangabad simply as a place to stay
when visiting the cave temples of
Ajanta and Ellora. In fact Aurangabad
has a number of attractions and could
easily stand on its own were it not
so overshadowed by the famous caves.
Bibi - Ka - Maqbara:
This Poorman's Taj was build in 1779
by Auranzebs.
Panchakki: This water
mill takes its name from the mill
which once ground grain for pilgrims.
In 1624 a sufi saint and spiritual
guide to Aurangazeb was buried, here.
Aurangabad Caves: Although they're
easily forgotten, standing as they
do in the shadow of the Ajanta and
Ellora caves.
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Where as the Ajanta caves re noted
for their paintings, here it's the
sculpture that is remarkable. Chronologically
the Ellora caves start where the Ajanta
Caves finish - its thought that the
builder was of Ajanta moved to Ellora
when they suddenly ceased construction
at their earliest are, but during
this time Buddhism was dealing in
India and a later series of Hindu
and jain cave temples were added.
In all there are 34 caves at Ellora:
12 Buddhist, 17 Hindus and 05 jain.
Although the temples are numbered
consequently, from 1 at the southern
end to 34 at the northern end, and
although the various religious groups
do not overlap, the caves are not
arranged chronologically
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Mumbai a cluster of seven islands,
derives its name from Mumbadevi, the
patron goddess of the koli fisher
folk, its oldest inhabitants. Once
a portuguese princess’ dowry
and later an adornment of neo-gothic
british architecture, Mumbai today,
is more than just a metropolis. It
is infact an enigma of mud huts &
sky-scrapers, age old traditions &
high fashions, the industrialists’
haven & movie makers’ hollywood.
Bombay is the capital of maharastra
and the economic powerhouse of india.
Its the fastest moving, most affluent
and most industrialised city in india.
It has India’s busiest international
airport and the country’s busiest
port, handling nearly 50% of the country’s
total foreign trade. It’s the
strong hold of free enterprise in
india and major manufacturing centre
for everything from cars and bicycles
to pharmaceuticals and petrochemicals.
It’s the centre for india important
textile industry as well as the financial
centre and an important base for overseas
companies. Nariman point, with india’s
tallest buildings, is rapidly becoming
a mini-manhattan. Yet once upon a
time bombay was nothing more than
a group of low lying swampy and malarial
flats passed on the british by its
portuguese occupiers as a wedding
dowry!
Chowpatty Beach:
A popular beach where celebration
of festivals such as coconut day and
the ganesh chaturthi immersions take
place.
Gateway of India:
This 26 metres high stone archway
is the first landmark of Bombay a
visitor sees when arriving by ship.
Gateway of India in the days when
most visitors came to india b ship
and when bombay was india’s
principal port, this was indeed the
"Gateway" to India.
Colaba Causeway: The
streets behind the taj mahal hotel
are the travelers centre of Bombay.
When the fishing boats come in and
unload their catch in a colourful
scene of intense activity.
Prince of Wales Museum:
The first part of this interesting
museum was opened in 1923. It was
designed in the indo saracenic style.
Jehangir art gallery : within the
compound of the museum sands bombay’s
principal art gallery.
University & High Court
: Along k b patel marg, over
looking cross maiden, there are several
imposing public buildings erected
during Bombay’s period of great
growth under the british.
Marine Drive : starting
at nariman point and sweeping around
by chowpathy beach and up to malabar
hill. The road is backed with high
residential buildings and is one of
bombay’s most popular promenades.
Hanging Gardens :
They take their name from the fact
that they are built on top of a series
of reservoirs that supply water to
Bombay. The formally laid out gardens
have notable collection of hedges
shaped like animals and there are
good views over the city.
Towers of Silence :
The paris is hold fire, earth and
water as sacred and thus will not
cremate or bury their dead. Instead
the bodies are laid out within the
towers to be picked clean by vultures.
Mahalakshmi Temple :
The oldest in bombay and appropriately
for this city of business and money,
dedicated to the goddess of wealth.
Victoria Gardens:
These gardens which contain Bombay’s
zoo and the victoria & alert museum.
Juhu Beach : Its
the nearest beach to the city.
Haji Ali Mosque:
The tomb of a muslim saint who died
while on pilgrimage to mecca.
Jain Temple : Built
in marble in 1904, the shrine is dedicated
to adinath, the first tirthankara
or apostle. Kamla nehru park situated
on the slopes of malabar hill, it
is mainly a children’s park
named after the wife of india’s
first prime minister.
Elephanta Island:
The island of elephanta is about 10
km north east of apollo bunder and
is bombay’s major tourist attraction
due to its four rock -cut temples.
They are thought to have been rock
- cut temples. When the portuguese
arrived they renamed it elephanta
after the large stone elephant near
the landing place.
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Shirdi is famous for the samadhi temple
of Shri Sai Baba. Very little is known
about the mysterious early life of
shri sai baba who is believed to be
the incarnation of shri guru dattatreya.
He attained Mahasamadhi on Vijayadashmi
(dussehra) the 15th october 1918.
For the devotees of all religions
and castes shirdi is very important
pilgrimage centre. Thousands of pilgrims
from all over the country come to
shirdi to pay their homage to sri
sai baba, thus making this holy place
a symbol of national integration.
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