tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48545493079929262032024-03-12T16:44:01.916-07:00Tourist Places in IndiaTravel cities & Historical places in India,and also Travel Tips and more info about Travel in IndiaShafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-44359111777061042202008-09-07T03:05:00.000-07:002008-09-07T03:12:51.117-07:00India - Travel Tips<div align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243219349226375554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuMW9I4D-ImR0gva7ykPeS1P5X_D2eIsvdDGRRGKStgyW30-SHvHgU8gp3eHAukHO_XR4MWPwXypTBg8VA2cZN_C7KCPIhX-X_dg5ABxEplJUPCnCJ90EivBmIrcZ_3uKEt9WOepfFDag/s400/india_flag.gif" border="0" /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"> </span><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">High Fliers</span> </strong></span><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></div><div align="justify"><br />To beat jetlag, book an overnight flight or one that arrives in the evening when travelling east so you can either catch your sleep on the flight or as soon as you get in to your destination.<br /><br /><br />To prevent the swelling of feet as is wont to happen on long flights, walk in the aisle at intervals and try not to take off your shoes.<br /><br /><br />Refrain from OD-ing on the free booze when on a flight, as too much alcohol causes dehydration. Tank up instead on aqua-pura.<br /><br /><br />When making flight reservation, remember to request for special meals if you have any food restrictions.<br /><br /><br />After September 11, airlines follow very strict security procedures. So make sure you reach the airport for check in well before departure time. Its best to check with the airline regarding how much in advance you should be at the airport.<br /><br /><br />If your baggage does not arrive on the same flight as you, fill out a Property Irregularity Report (PIR), with a description of the baggage, a list of contents and address to which it should be forwarded. If your baggage does not arrive at all, place a claim with the airline within 21 days.<br /><br /><br />Overbooking is a fact of life in the airline industry. If you are not in a particular hurry to get to your destination then volunteer to give your seat up and take the next flight. The airline will provide you a hotel room and other frills, so you can end up having an extended vacation at the airlines expense!<br /><br /><br />Do not accept any package from a stranger.<br /><br /><br />For a smooth ride on a plane, choose the seats located near the wings as if the plane hits an air pocket, this is where you will get the least amount of bumps.<br /><br /><br />If you are planning to watch the in flight movie, choose the fourth or fifth row from the screen to avoid getting a neck cramp.<br /><br /><br />If you are prone to motion sickness, take an anti sickness pill before the flight. The pill won't help much, if you have it after you have started feeling sick!<br /><br /><br />Abide by the list of items prohibited on board and carry most items like skis/cues/walking canes/sticks/Swiss knives in checked in baggage - this smoothens the check-in process plus avoids the risk of confiscation and unnecessary delays.<br /><br /><br />Last and this is equally important - report any unattended items in the airport or aircraft to the nearest airport or airline personnel.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Weather Vane</span> </div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><br />Keep track of the weather at your destination and be prepared, especially if you are going to a hurricane prone area.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Heartbreak Hotel</span><br /><br />Make your hotel reservations in advance, especially if you are visiting a place in peak season. You don’t want to be caught without a roof over your head!<br /><br /><br />Negotiating room tariffs over the phone? Call the hotel twice to confirm the rates. Note down the name of the person you have talked to and request a written/faxed confirmation. This way you can be sure that you will not be wrongly billed by the hotel.<br /><br /><br />Don't depend solely on the hotel's alarm service. Carry your own little alarm clock to catch an early morning flight or that pre-dawn sightseeing trip.<br /><br /><br />When you check into your hotel, ask the reception to give you a card with the hotel's name address and telephone number. This will come in handy if you get lost or forget the name of your hotel.<br /><br /><br />Check whether your hotel has a hair-dryer, iron, coffee percolator, etc, to avoid carrying these gadgets and also making it easy to skip the 110/220 conversion problem when travelling to foreign countries.<br /><br /><br />Most hotels frown on guests doing their own laundry in the bathrooms, but if you do need to wash some smalls, carry a length of nylon twine to improvise a clothesline.<br /><br /></div></strong></span><div align="justify"></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-58262322556979162782008-08-17T09:30:00.000-07:002008-08-17T10:06:16.855-07:00Shirdi<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235528870310802674" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN_L5yFbZ0-w3BCLA09bcQiDQyx5QZWYA0butelcsJ_st-dL4tePpg5ul3FJMH1LFAyDeqUZY9cyWv8Tbt-P4sjDtekMAZ3uxgPHiRVlUzl9azOKLiPxCYCZp_0GL4stYpZ89gkpHqAvY/s400/1185341783.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN_L5yFbZ0-w3BCLA09bcQiDQyx5QZWYA0butelcsJ_st-dL4tePpg5ul3FJMH1LFAyDeqUZY9cyWv8Tbt-P4sjDtekMAZ3uxgPHiRVlUzl9azOKLiPxCYCZp_0GL4stYpZ89gkpHqAvY/s1600-h/1185341783.jpg"></a> <span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Shirdi</span> is that mystical magical town near the holy city of Nasik, close to Mumbai. This hallowed town exudes such intense devotion, that even the casual visitor is bound to be charged with fervour. Shirdi was the abode of the <span style="color:#ff0000;">S</span><span style="color:#ff0000;">aint Sai Baba</span>, who lived here for eighty years - and died here over eighty years ago. It is said that Sai Baba himself calls his devotees to Shirdi and that his blessings can heal even the deepest wound.<br /><br /><br />The town is tiny - just 2 square km of main street and a labyrinth of by-lanes - but packs in much passion. Pilgrims throng for a brief "darshan" at <span style="color:#ff0000;">Samadhi Mandir</span>, the shrine of Sai Baba where his mortal remains were interred. The queues outside the mandir are endless, the throng inside is maddening, and the devotion intense. </strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Next to the shrine is the peaceful <span style="color:#ff0000;">Masjid </span>where Sai Baba spent most of his life. The sacred fire called "dhuni" still burns here and its ash or "udhi" is smeared on devotees. </strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span style="color:#000000;">The</span> </span><span style="color:#ff0000;">Chavadi</span> is a small building where Sai Baba used to spend every alternate night.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#000000;">The</span> <span style="color:#ff0000;">Guru Sthan</span> is the shrine where the Baba’s spiritual leader took samadhi (gave up his body). The neem tree at the Guru Sthan where Sai Baba first sat when he came to Shirdi, is said to have absorbed miracle powers. </strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;">The</span> <span style="color:#ff0000;">Lendi Gardens</span> where Sai Baba went for a walk and sat in meditation is a spot where devotees come to pray. </strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>The <span style="color:#ff0000;">Khandoba Temple</span>, near the STA bus stop, is the oldest temple in Shirdi.<br /><br /><br />The streets of Shirdi are paved with shops selling Sai Baba memorabilia, especially the unforgettable pictures of Sai Baba himself, with his piercing eyes, snowy beard and benevolent smile. For <span style="color:#000000;">assistance</span> in Shirdi, contact the <span style="color:#ff0000;">Shri Sai Baba Sansthan</span>, a charitable organisation with a rest house, canteen, locker facilities and an assistance counter at the bus stand.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Getting there:</span> Shirdi is on the Ahmednagar-Manmad Highway, 250 km from Mumbai and 75 km from Nashik. You can fly into Nashik and then take a bus, taxi or train to Shirdi. Shirdi is accessible on the Central Railway line; get off at Manmad (65 km from Shirdi) or at Kopergaon (18 km). MTDC runs buses from all major destinations. </strong></span></div><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><div align="justify"><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Best time:</span> Pilgrims flock to Shirdi at any time of the year. Shirdi has a dry climate that swings to extremes, from a high of 40° C in May, to a low of 7° C in January. But the monsoon months - June to August - are pleasant, with scanty rains. Though the shrine is open though the week, Thursday is Sai Baba's special day.</div><div align="justify"><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Accommodation:</span> Accommodation is never a problem in Shirdi - from the MTDC hotel, tourist rest houses, dharamsalas and ashrams, to five star accommodation - the town is totally geared for pilgrims. Hotels offer special packages and check-in/check-out timings. You can stay in comfort and clean surroundings at one of the charitable sansthas and dharamsalas for just a handful of rupees. Stay clear of touts! </div><div align="justify"><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Money:</span> The shops open as early as 7 a.m. and close late, at around 10:30 p.m. Shirdi does not have any banks or moneychangers and you will need to go to Nashik to change your foreign currency. Most of the large hotels accept international credit cards.<br /><br /></div></strong></span><div align="justify"></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-80005729366038247162008-08-15T04:40:00.007-07:002008-08-15T06:27:13.560-07:00Varanasi<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234734016263696578" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDA_JSPappVfACGvbreamddnbV_dq0hRwzb2vwRCD6HFINfwv_1r5ABZw6P6qrpMSQfDzQtqUwgxtcPS6XJmX7ki8wyNTveQp6X9_dn1ENiuh4Q8pYPynqJ67H3MSwVfhVvurGj_F7-kc/s400/varanasi-city.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Varanasi was known as Kashi in the ancient times and as Benaras more recently. The city is more than 3000 years old and is believed to be one of the oldest living cities in the world. It is much sacred to Hindus for centuries and according to Hindu mythology, those who die in Kashi gain instant salvation and freedom from the cycle of births and deaths. It is situated on the bank of the holy river Ganges, known as 'Ganga' in this region and its worshippers are said to be the upholders of the true Hinduism, who are known to keep the Hindu traditions and rituals alive. The city got the name 'Benaras' due to mis-pronunciation of 'Varanasi' by the British. The city is the house of one of the twelve famous 'Jyotirlingas'.<br /><br />It is considered an important seat of learning and knowledge, especially when it comes to Hindi, Sanskrit and Hindu philosophy in its purest form. There are hundreds and thousands of temples in the city that can be seen every few steps and in every home along with a number of schools and colleges. Brahmins of Kashi who had the duty and privilege to be well versed in scriptures and spread their knowledge to the common people are the most venerated. Banaras Hindu University is still one of the best institutions of India and churns out some of the cream of the Indian society. Arts and crafts of Varanasi are famous too, especially the Benarasi silk sarees with broad brocade work done in gold and silver threads that are essential part of the Indian bridal trousseaus. Music and dance has also flourished well in the city.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Varanasi's Prime Attractions</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Ghats of Varanasi </span>The numerous Ghats of Varanasi on the banks of river Ganges come alive with the dawn as the river water assumes different hue of red, orange, gold and yellow at the different times of the day and thousands of devotees take the ceremonial dip in them, offering prayers to the sun and the river while standing waist-deep in the water. There are over all 85 bathing ghats in the city, the most notable being the Dashashwamedha Ghat and the Manikarnika Ghat, where it is said that there is continuous burning of dead bodies at all times.<br /> </strong></span></div><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Durga Temple </span>The busiest temple of Varanasi, it is dedicated to Goddess Durga. The large rectangular tank called Durga Kund nearby has an idol of Goddess Durga seated on it and is believed to be the abode of Durga Devi, as stated in Puranas. It is said that she has lived here for centuries as the guardian deity of the city in the form of one of the warrior goddesses known as Chandikas.<br /></div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Bharat MataTemple </span>The unique temple is dedicated to 'Mother India' and is much more contemporary. The nationalists Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta and Sri Durga Prasad Khatri built it. The temple has one of the perfect relief maps of India, which has accurate scaling and is made in marble. Mahatma Gandhi inaugurated the temple.<br /> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Kashi Vishwanath Temple </span>Kashi Vishwanath Temple or the Golden Temple is one of the twelve temples around the world that enshrine the famous 'Jyotirlinga' that symbolizes Lord Shiva and is known as Vishweshwara or Vishwanatha (meaning the God and Master of the World respectively). It is said that mere catching a glimpse ('darshan') of the idol grants benediction and spiritual peace to the deity. Its significance is even more enhanced as it is believed that a visit to this temple equals the gains of holy visits to all the other eleven 'jyotirlingas' combined. The present temple is said to be built by the Late Maharani Ahilya Bai Holkar of Indore in 1780.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Tulsi Manas Temple </span>Tulsi Manas Temple has modern construction with a 'Shikhara' typical to North Indian temple architecture. It was built in 1964, in marble and is dedicated to the great saint Tulsi Das who wrote the famous epic, 'Ram Charit Manas'. Tulsi is said to have lived here and wrote the verses here. He died in 1623. The movind statues depict scenes from the epic again and again on the second floor, which is the chief attraction here.<br /> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="color:#ff6666;"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Annapurna Temple </span></span>The temple complex has a small sanctum that enshrines the idol of Goddess Annapoorna (Goddess of Food). It was inaugurated in January 1977 and the famous Shankaracharya of Shringeri consecrated the idol. It is said that the devotes of the Goddess never suffer from starvation.<br /> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Manmandir </span>The Somesvara ghat of Varanasi is now more known for housing the Manmandir Palace built by Raja Savai Man Singh of Amber in 1585. Windows of the palace have intricate carvings while there is a Hindu Observatory at the top floor, which was built by Raja Sawai Jai Singh II.<br /> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Bharat Kala Bhawan </span>Bharat Kala Bhawan situated in the campus of Benaras Hindu University (BHU) is a museum that showcases the rich collection of Mughal miniature paintings, sculptures, contemporary art, bronze statues and brocade textiles belonging to the period of 1st to 15th centuries.</div><div align="justify"><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Banaras Hindu University </span>Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya founded BHU as a centre for the study of Indian art, culture, music and Sanskrit and is one of the oldest educational centers in India. It has been known to play an important role in the independence movement and has evolved into the greatest center of learning in India and has produced many eminent freedom fighters, scholars, artists, scientists and technologists. It sprawls across 1300 acres and has good roads and lots of greenery in its campus. The university is a small city in itself and has its own temple, airstrip, Bharat Kala Museum, hospital, large playgrounds, a massive auditorium, a flying club and many other facilities.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Varanasi City Facts</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location:</span> Situated in Uttar Pradesh, India.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Climate: </span>Tropical climate with hot summers, highly humid monsoons and pleasant winters with misty mornings.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">How to Reach:</span><br /><br /> <br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Air: </span>Nearest airport is the Babatpur Airport, 22 km from the city, with daily flights to and from Agra, Bhuvaneshwar, Calcutta, Delhi, Khajuraho, Mumbai and Lucknow.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train: </span>Varanasi is an important and major rail junction and trains connect it to all the major cities of India including Delhi and Mumbai.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road: </span>Smooth good road network and National Highways connect Varanasi to and from Calcutta, Delhi, Kanya Kumari and Gorakhpur.<br /> </strong></span></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-40921707438865500602008-08-15T04:40:00.006-07:002008-08-15T06:18:28.548-07:00Trivandrum<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234731450450031538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFU3ny5mlW9fWbD5cI6UGQDzN0XtSfxfyF4r5FaGE1T4hzccmlrkH-xdcK5gVOXNazoOfXQUHx1oxrKtcDaBUuH6H-0k6sm8YVo9-dYQrJg4SM2oHjSC-QsOsUCNkORvPRSWDpm4TNeFA/s400/sssssssssssssss.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Thiruvananthapuram or Trivandram is the capital of Kerala. It is so called as it considered to be the abode of Anantha, according to the Hindu mythology, who is the sacred serpent of Lord Vishnu. The mesmerizing sunsets, lagoons fringed by coconut groves bordering its beautiful lagoons, aromatic spice and coffee plantations and cool breeze provide the ultimate experience to all the senses of a human body. Exotic seafood cuisines of Kerala that tickles one's taste buds are not to be forgotten. The city is also nicknamed as the 'City of Seven Hills' and was once a very popular port where Romans, Jews, Arabs and Christians came frequently. Still it is one of the biggest centers of industries related to sea and marine trade.<br /><br />The legend says that Lord Parashuram snatched this land away from the sea by throwing his axe at it and thus, sea fearfully receded. Thus, Kerala along with Trivandrum emerged from the sea. The abundant natural beauty of the city is inconceivable. The mix of traditional and modern culture makes Trivandrum a heavenly experience. The city has played an important role in the maritime history and is today, more popular among the tourists for its Ayurvedic centers. The space research here is at par with rest of the world while the gorgeous backwaters and lagoon cruises and scenic beaches and seashores make it the first choice for the sea and water sport lovers. For lazier people, this Otiental paradise has relaxing Ayurvedic massages to offer.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Trivandrum's Prime Attractions</span><br /> </strong></span></div><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Zoological Gardens: </span>One of the Asia's best zoos, it has dense forests and beautiful lakes.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Government Art Museum: </span>Napier Museum or Government Art Museum is a 19th century edifice that is a delightful mix of Kerala, Mughal, Chinese and Italian architectural styles. Its natural air-conditioning system makes viewing the bronze statues, ancient ornaments and costumes, ivory carvings and musical instruments, a pleasurable experience. There is a whole temple chariot on display too.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Sree Chitra Art Gallery: </span>Exhibiting the best of Roerich and Raja Ravi Verma besides the Mughal, Rajput, Bengal and Tanjore schools of paintings, this art gallery also boasts of a rich collection of art from the Far East and Bali.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple: </span>Accessible only by Hindus, this temple is 260 yr old and has a 100-ft gopuram. Its edifice presents a mix of Kerala and Dravidian architecture. The presiding deity known as Sri Padmanabhaswamy is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu in the reclining position on the serpent Anantha.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">Puttan Malika Palace Museum: </span></span>Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balrama Verma of Travancore, an eminent poet and musician conceived the palace (now turned into a museum) as a rare example of the traditional Travancore style of architecture. It exhibits beautiful woodcarvings and art pieces along with articles that are related to trade relations of the region with China and Europe mainly because of the spices that grew abundantly here.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Kalaripayattu: </span>The 5,000-year-old martial art of Kerala, Kalarippayattu, has been kept alive and preserved carefully by the institutions and the training centers of the region. It is believed to be origin of all martial art forms and also has its very own branch of medicine known as 'kalarichikitsa'. The institutions offer viewing the martial art performances or the treatments in their special healing centres.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Kovalam Beach: </span>One of the best beaches of the world, Kovalam offers the best of tropical dream with swaying coconut groves, safe seashores where one can swim or just tan the body in the sun and delicious dishes in the seafood special restaurants and food stalls. One can also experience a visit to one of the Ayurvedic spas here.<br /> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Trivandrum City Facts</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location:</span><br />Situated in Kerala, India.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Climate:</span><br />Moderate climate all the year round though monsoons bring heavy rainfalls to the city.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">How to Reach:</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Air:</span> Trivandrum has daily domestic flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Bangalore and international flights to Male, Colombo and the Middle East.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train: </span>Thiruvananthapuram has direct trains to the major cities of Kerala and India.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road: </span>Four National Highways 7, 17, 45 and 47, meet at Thiruvananthapuram connecting it to all major cities in India. There are regular bus services to Bangalore, Chennai, Kanyakumari, Madurai and Pondicherry.<br /><br /></div></strong></span><div></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-71971753674608081042008-08-15T04:40:00.005-07:002008-08-15T05:54:51.633-07:00Mysore<div align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234725677498054082" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ4p0Mrk_1Vj2sGdChrCj_e-CTb9bAgpfm1mEj2697w7Urp_5uFMiG5xIOlFCsbOapvs8MlDq4Y48vT3M7fgn5kswP42AbEy_x7WlfHAyBFEBcxMyXWFWPgTqPyw5sYCpgfJ5qq2WzpL4/s400/MysoreDemon.gif" border="0" /> <span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Mysore has once been the capital of Karnataka and still its palaces and culture reflect the clean, light, serene and easygoing old worldly charm. Its distinctive aromas attract people to the place again and again. It is said that Mysore was originally known as 'Mahishasurana Ooru' or the town of Mahishasura, as it was here that Goddess Chamundeshwari, the patron deity of the royalty of the region, killed the mighty demon Mahishasura atop the Chamundi. Still, one can see the temples of the Goddess atop these hills at the eastern end of Mysore town.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>The imposing and magnificent palaces and buildings of Mysore are a part of architectural heritage of the city and have retained its old-world charm. The city boasts of well-planned gardens, fabulous temples and broad shady avenues. The Wodeyar dynasty of Kings ruled Mysore ever since 14th century except for the time in the late 18th century, when Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan were the rulers of the city for 40 years. The city has been planned well and the benevolent Wodeyar rulers gave it the identity of a 'native' princely state and encouraged traditional music, dance, art and literature along with scholarship and time-honored crafts.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Mysore's Prime Attractions</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Chamundi Hills: </span>Chamundi Hills is 1,100-feet-high and the Chamundeshwari temple atop them is quite fabulous. Goddess Chamundeshwari is patron deity of the erstwhile royalty and it takes 13 km drive or climbing up the 1,000 stone steps to reach the temple. The giant statue of Mahishasura nearby, who was believed to be the demon killed by the Goddess here is a chief attraction here along with the the 300-year old monolithic statue of Nandi Bull, which is 4.8 m high, placed halfway up the stairs. Nandi Bull is the chosen mount of Lord Shiva and is notable because of its size and ornamentation.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Srirangapatnam: </span>The summer palace of Tipu Sultan at Srirangapatnam, 15 km from Mysore, was built in 1784. It boasts of Indo-Saracenic architecture and has a small museum with a rich collection of Tipu's personal possessions such as his gold-embroidered tunic, old paintings and a coin collection. Other places woth seeing at Srirangapatnam are the Gumbaz, the mausoleum of Tipu Sultan and his father, Hyder Ali and Jami Masjid with its slender minarets that make the mosque recognizable from several kilometers.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Brindavan Gardens: </span>30 minutes from Mysore, the terrace gardens of Brindavan boast of beautiful watercourses, musical fountains that are fitted with soft colored lights and look quite beautiful in the night. It is a popular picnic spot of the city.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Lalitha Mahal Palace: </span>Lalitha Mahal was the guesthouse of Wodeyar rulers and was built in 1930s. It is snow-white in color and its Italian marble staircase that branches off from a landing to reach the first floor hall looks quite fascinating. There are delightful lawns and tall trees surrounding the palace.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Mysore Palace: </span>Mysore Palace was built in 897 AD using Saracenic style of architecture. It presents a fusion of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles. The old palace was burnt down in 1897 and the new one designed by an English architect was completed in 1912. Gray granite was used to construct the main palace building while a gilded dome was placed atop a tower in the palace. It has huge rooms and floor tiles are of beautiful colors and hues such as turquoise blue, magenta, golden yellow and leaf green. The central hall once used for marriages and other major gatherings is perhaps the most beautiful part of the palace and is richly ornamented. The royal courtyard is the venue from where the Dussehra procession starts every year in the month of October. There is a museum too that presents a collection of musical instruments, children's toys, lots of paintings, royal costumes and weaponry and armor that belonged to the Maharaja's family.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Mysore City Facts<br /></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location: </span>Situated in Karnataka, India.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Climate: </span>Mysore boasts of warm summers and cool winters and a pleasant season throughout the year.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">How to Reach:<br /></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Air:</span> The nearest airport to Mysore is Bangalore Airport, 140 km away from here that has domestic flights throughout India.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train: </span>Mysore is linked by regular trains to Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road: </span>Good roads link Mysore to almost all the important cities of the region.<br /><br /><br /></div></strong></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxi2kQ15Nm95-OErNgFoi6vSnQumiDkVBtkEiYvEREHi_A88wMcXJ9Mk5PKgHWVNaq40oitE1-Ru3at1gmXjfRa3cyugnGTF1l5GYFWgSBwpsbNKK4v6W3pNr0l_EL24rWDimrbfLwSP0/s1600-h/MysoreDemon.gif"></a><div align="justify"><br /><br /></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-70180696339522337662008-08-15T04:40:00.004-07:002008-08-15T05:39:48.319-07:00Kolkata (Calcutta)<div align="justify"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjQ1xYFhIdXEnC9MWFtMOBpsoeijJW8EvlfEC880RDuwzudcrFO2voVfFTnQX6nACPxopokWu5xM-B3kpsA7H4fgCGaq1lJTkBJ-BP6He-CWrLKNMI0gJKlcRrFhBHF3tlLntnTICklBA/s1600-h/kkkkkkkk.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234721167266045058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjQ1xYFhIdXEnC9MWFtMOBpsoeijJW8EvlfEC880RDuwzudcrFO2voVfFTnQX6nACPxopokWu5xM-B3kpsA7H4fgCGaq1lJTkBJ-BP6He-CWrLKNMI0gJKlcRrFhBHF3tlLntnTICklBA/s400/kkkkkkkk.jpg" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>The British named Kolkata or Calcutta after the patron deity of the city known as Goddess Kali. Caluctta is actually the anglicized version of Kalikatta while the Kolkata is the Bengali version of the same name. The city is more than three hundred years old and was once the capital of British India until 1912. Its leisurely life style and the old-world charm still pervade this bustling metropolitan. It was recently the most densely populated city in the world and boasts of India's first Metro railway service. The city was founded in 1696 with the establishment of Fort Williams, which was the first British fort in India. It was then a mere fishermens' village and has now grown into being one of the largest cities in the world. Calcutta and its people are known for their creativity and vibrancy.<br /><br /><br />The strong cultural, literary and religious flavor of the city can be seen in its fine, arts, music, dance, theatre and writing. Calcutta has produced many Indian leaders and the Nobel Laureate Rabindra Nath Tagore. It serves as an important gateway to the North East and one of the major commercial cities of India. Durga Puja is one of the most celebrated festivals here and fairs and processions are held throughout the city. The festivals lasts for ten days, during which the whole city is profusely decorated and beautiful idols of Goddess Durga are erected everywhere in the city. However, there is almost no nightlife in the city.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Kolkata's Prime Attractions</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Kali Temple </span>The ancient temple, which was reconstructed in 1809 in its present form, is also known as the Kalighat temple. The city was named Calcutta or Kolkata after this temple as an anglicized version of Kalikata.<br /></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">BBD Square </span>The memorial dedicated to the three brave Bengali martyrs known as Dinesh, Badal and Binay, is also the commercial centre of the city. It is also known as the Dalhousie square and houses Raj Bhawan, Assembly house, High Court and General Post Office along with the Secretariat. GPO is said to be situated at the venue of the first fort of British in India. There is also the legend of the infamous Black Hole associated with the area, where is it said that the tyrant Siraj-Ud-Daulla cramped 146 people in a small room for a night and only 23 survived the ordeal and were found alive in the morning.<br /> </strong></span></div><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Eden Gardens </span>The gardens were named after the sister of Alexander and now houses one of the largest stadiums of India, also known as the Ranji stadium. It also has a wooden pagoda and many beautiful trees.<br /> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Ravindra Gallery </span></span>Lalit Kala Academy has a gallery dedicated to the rare and fine pictures and manuscripts of Rabindra Nath Tagore. It also exhibits paintings done in Rabindra style and is a popular venue for cultural programs and events.<br /> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Rabindra Setu </span>Also known as the Howrah Bridge, it is one of the three bridges on River Hooghly. The bridge suspended on pillars is a marvel of British engineering and has become icon of Calcutta. It is still in working condition, though it is very old. There is a new bridge nearby too, known as the Vidya Sagar Setu, which is a cable suspended bridge and is quite similar in design to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.<br /> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Marble Palace </span>Once the private mansion of a Zamindar, it was built in 1835. Today, it serves as a private zoo and museum with several statues and paintings on display.<br /> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">St. John's Church <span style="color:#333333;">Bui</span></span><span style="color:#000000;">lt</span> in 1787, the church boasts of a number of monuments such as the octagonal mausoleum of the founder of the city known as Job Char nock and the tomb of Admiral Watson.<br /> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Belur Math </span>The headquarters of the Ramkrishna mission established by Swami Vivekanand is dedicated to the preaching of Ramkrishna Paramhansa such as unity among all the religions. He was a great Indian philosopher and died in 1897.<br /><br /></div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Kolkata City Facts<br /></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location:</span> Situated in West Bengal, India.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Climate: </span></span>Kolkata experiences frequent rainfall and high velocity winds. It has tropical climate with hot and humid summers and pleasant winters.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">How to Reach:<br /></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Air:</span> Kolkata has daily domestic flights to the major cities of India including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Patna, Varanasi and Lucknow and international flights to and from countries in the Southeast Asia. The airport is known as the Dumdum airport.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train: </span>Kolkata is well connected by trains all over India. Best options from Delhi are Rajdhani Express and Shatabdi Express, while you can take Coromandel Express from Chennai and Gitanjali Express from Mumbai. The two major railway stations are at Howrah and Sealdah respectively.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road: </span>The main bus terminus is the Esplanade Terminus, while good motor able roads connect Kolkata to all the major cities in India.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Sea: </span>One can opt for boat and ship services to and from Andaman & Nicobar Islands or luxury cruises to Haldia, a modern port city nearby.<br /><br /></div></strong></span><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-57951456226207494062008-08-15T04:40:00.003-07:002008-08-15T05:25:50.926-07:00Khajuraho<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234717750389886578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWBiwQuJ2FgiwY4CGh3zdbCWEfCZYASUOBETMfqitkaD0F-xTL0z9xx5eB2OzOnf_fUjr45tIQ3lc-54m0O24UJiGye4hMCA1COgto2Q0gIk5BExLxabuWMk5QEmTN8F4zzRU92S_16Eo/s400/khajuharo-sot.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>The temples of Khajuraho are not about the usual worshipping and religious rites performed to the deities but more about the courtly arts, love and passion. These unique 10th-11th century temples are famous for their erotic sculptures and carvings on the walls and present quite an éclat mix of architectural science and art. Related to Chandela dynasty founded by Chandravarman, it is said that he, to fulfill the dream of his mother Hemvati, built these temples. It is said that he was the illegitimate son of this Brahmin girls and the Moon God. The temple was meant to display all aspects of passion and erotic fantasy, which the Moon God is often associated with (in Hindu mythology) that rocks the world. Khajuraho was then the capital of Chandravarman. The temples are believed to have introduced an artistic revolution.<br /><br />The erotic sculptures are believed to be inspired by 'Kamasutra', the book on art of sex. They are also said to depict the lovemaking of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, the divine couple that are known to be the symbols of ultimate marital bliss in Hinduism. The temples were lost into obscurity for several years though the tribals of the region worshipped the deities here but they were later discovered by the rest of the world too and soon evolved into the second hottest destination for tourism after Taj Mahal. The temple complex houses a number of medieval temples and can be divided into three main groups - the Eastern, the Western and the Southern. Originally, there were 85 temples but now only 22 have survived the ordeals of time. The sculptures are also related to other courtly arts such as music and dance. UNESCO has declared the site as a World Heritage in 1986.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Khajuraho's Prime Attractions</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Temples of Khajuraho</span> Khajuraho temples took 200 years to complete, which is not surprising when you look at its elaborate carvings. All the temples are planned in a similar pattern and use temple architectural style typical to Central India. The balanced and harmonious architecture is adorned with uninhibited graceful erotic sculptures that may range from simpler ones to the most inspired ones. The temples of the Western group are the largest and easier to access.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"><br />Eastern Group</span> Comprising of five isolated sub-groups of temples in and around present Khajuraho, the Eastern group of temples boast of three Brahmanical temples dedicated to Brahma, Vamana and Javari respectively and three Jain temples dedicated to Ghantai, Adinath and Parsvanath.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Southern Group</span> Most distant group of temples, it boasts of temples dedicated to Duladeo and Chaturbhuja.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Western Group</span> is the largest of all the temple groups of Khajuraho. It is not compact and located in the center but also include the most renowned and noteworthy monuments built during the reign of the Chandela rulers. They are also known to have been maintained well by the Archaeological Survey of India and the lush green lawns surrounding them with multihued shrums and fragrant blossoms add to their beauty. The most prominent temples of the group are the Lakshmana Temple, the Matangesvara Temple and the Varaha Temple that are a part of a single complex, the Visvanatha and Nandi temples situated near the above-mentioned complex and the Chitragupta, Jagadambi and the Kandariya Mahadeo temples a little to the west of the complex.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Panna National Park</span> 30-minute from Khajuraho, Panna National Park offers a beautiful experience of wilderness that includes deep gorges, tranquil valleys, dense teak forests and a number of wild life species such as Cheetals, Chowsinghas, Gharials, Indian Foxes, Leopards, Sloth Bears, Wild Boars, Wolfs and Porcupines.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Khajuraho City Facts</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location:</span> Situated in Madhya Pradesh, India.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Climate: </span>Khajuraho has extreme tropical climate with hot scorching summers and chilly cold winters.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">How to Reach:</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Air:</span> There are daily domestic flights to and from Agra, and Kathmandu.<br /></div></strong></span><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train: </span>Jhansi is a big railway junction near Khajuraho. The other railway stations nearby that are well connected to other parts of India are Mahoba and Satna.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road: </span>Good roads and frequent bus services connect Khajuraho to other major cities such as Agra, Bhopal, Gwalior, Indore, Jabalpur, Jhansi, Mahoba, Panna and Satna.<br /></div></strong></span><div align="justify"></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-81961975536228024482008-08-15T04:40:00.002-07:002008-08-15T05:12:21.968-07:00Kanyakumari<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234714414447790834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge44C85yl30DVdoa4sXx3jFv0IaVSIRJqLhFd2YSU5Gr8lt7r58Pm2LKWHCdtfAKvxfvKmZZ5Vs1fTP0JgxhEkdhfCojB9UBICP1VNa41Y2PNQQ5103KvZU9pbDfglpjF5MwpQKlNaWdA/s400/KanyaKumariVivekanand.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>The city at the southernmost tip of India, Kanyakumari offers you the mingling of three great seas, namely the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean and the great beaches from where you can see these giant water bodies. Also known as Cape Comorin, it is the district headquarters and an important pilgrimage place of the region. The sunrise and sunset here is exceptionally beautiful, especially on full moon days when one can see the setting of sun and rising of moon almost simultaneously. Endowed richly with paddy fields and coconut groves, the place is named after the Goddess Kannyakumari Amman, the presiding deity of the area. It is said that Devi Kanya, one of the incarnations of Goddess Parvati did penance on one of the rocks here to woo Lord Shiva.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>The multi-colored mineral sand of Kanyakumari is indeed a unique trait. The city was once known as the 'Granary of Travancore' because of high-yielding paddy fields. The rocky and dangerous seashores are kept out of limit for the tourists by a manmade wall and tourists are constantly warned to stay off the rocks. There is a lighthouse too from where you can get some of the most wonderful and exotic views of the surrounding scenery. The rough seas and furious sea waves are not suitable for sunbathing or swimming but one can look for a huge variety of shells on the Kanyakumari beach and visit the Vivekananda memorial that recently came into limelight when giant waves hit it during the Tsunami disaster.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"><strong>Kanyakumari Prime Attractions</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Kumari Amman Temple:</span> The temple dedicated to the Virgin Goddess known as Devi Kanya or Kumari Amman, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati is a must see here.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Temple Of Goddess Bhagavathi:</span> Goddess Bhagavathi Temple situated at the confluence of the three oceans was originally built by Pandyas and was expanded later by Nayaks. The Goddess's idol looks serene and beneficent and the eastern gate of the temple, which is considered most pious and faces Bay of Bengal is opened only five times a year. </strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Swami Vivekananda Rock Memorial: </span>The memorial erected to commemorate the visit of Vivekananda to Kanyakumari in December 25, 1892, and spent whole night into deep meditation in a rock in the sea before resolving to serve his Motherland and spreading the message of Vedanta, recently came into news when giant disastrous Tsunami waves hit it last year.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Gandhi Mandapam:</span> The shrine is erected in the sport where the urn containing the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi was kept for public view last time before immersing the ashes in the three seas. The architecture resembles an Orissa temple and the wonder of the place is that on 2nd October (birth day of Gandhi ji) every year, the sun's rays fall on the place where his ashes were kept.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Alvar Tirunagari:</span> The famous Vaishnav temple of Kannyakumari, Alvar Tirunagari temple is associated with saint Namalvar, who attained enlightenment under a tree enshrined here. He sang the praises of the temle, which is dedicated to Lord Adinatha. The temple festival uses an exclusive musical instrument made of stone, which is known as Nadaswaram.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Kanyakumari City Facts</span><br /></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location:</span> Situated in Tamil Nadu at the southernmost tip of India.<br /></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Climate:</span> Tropical pleasant climate throughout the year with insignificant temperature differences during summers and winters.<br /></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">How to Reach:</span><br /></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Air:</span> Trivandrum is the nearest airport, which is 80 km away from Kanyakumari.<br /></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train:</span> Kanyakumari is well connected by train services to all the major cities of India up to Delhi and even further up to Jammu.<br /></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road:</span> Kanyakumari is connected by regular bus services to and from all the major cities of South India including Chennai, Pondicherry, Bangalore, Trichy, Madurai, Rameshwaram, Nagercoil, Tuticorin, Tiruchendur, Tiruvelveli and Trivandrum.<br /></div></strong></span><div align="justify"></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-12714668906245422402008-08-15T04:40:00.001-07:002008-08-15T05:00:47.093-07:00Jodhpur<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234710386543678882" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPyOGXIlk7YTvijTxjsIpjz93BBY99GBi1Mq_E93ihz-CWVc97oLnH84L97aDw5iYjIJ7_MNejCVN6k5B46umgQ_34ot1tgkSYlq07aK79BdTOZ9cq7ZI9q77GHroV-sNeqsjAlFFC9Cg/s400/umaid-bhawan-palace.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>The sprawling Mehrangarh Fort of Jodhpur has many folklores and legends woven around it that recount the romantic and chivalrous expeditions of the past. The erstwhile royal residence that has now been turned into a glorious heritage hotel known as Umaid Bhawan Palace is the pride of Jodhpur and has been identified as the largest personal residence which figures substantially amongs the best art-deco buildings of India. The sense of serenity pervades the city with the pale blue color that envelops the city's palaces, havelis, temples and houses, perhaps to counter the scorching rays of the desert sun. People of Jodhpur are friendly and are dressed in bright hues to counter the barren look of the city and welcome the guests with warm hospitality. Crowded Bazaars present a fair-like scene too and are quite interesting. </strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>As the name suggests, the city was founded by the ruler of Marwar, Suryavanshi Rao Jodha as the capital of his princely state. It was a major trading center too as it was situated on the trade routes between Central Asia and the ports of Gujarat in the 16th century. The textiles and crafts of the city are famous even today. The Marwar Festival held in October for two days is also known as the 'Maand Festival' is perhaps the best even organized to showcase the folk art and culture of Jodhpur, especially the songs and dance of the Marwar region. It was called 'Maand', after the classical style of folk music of the region that featured songs on romance and chivalry of Rajput rulers. The folk dance performances of the festival are great. Besides the folklores and folk songs, the other events highlighted in the festival are horse riding, horse polo and several competitions.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"><strong>J</strong></span><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"><strong>odhpur's Prime Attractions</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Mehrangarh Fort</span> The impenetrable fort built by Rao Jodha, it is situated on a vertical hill and is known for classic views, delicate latticed windows, intricately carved panels and graceful porches. The complex has some of the most beautiful edifices such as Moti Mahal or Pearl Palace, Phool Mahal or Flower Palace, Sheesh Mahal or Mirror Palace, Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana. It also houses the second largest cannon in Asia. The fort is simply a giant in its family. The museum shop here offers some of the best collection of handicrafts, books and literature.</strong></span></div><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><div align="justify"><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Umaid Bhawan Palace</span> The 20th century edifice is as interesting in its conception, as it is in architecture. The palace was conceived as a famine relief project to provide employment to the people during the great famine that lasted 16 years! The fabulous architecture of Umaid Bhawan Palace is worth seeing and has been maintained well. The museum of the palace showcases some of the erstwhile regal mementos such as the clocks, tea sets, paintings, royal costumes and other trivia. It has now been converted into a heritage hotel, though a part of it still serves as the residence of the erstwhile royalty.</div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Jaswant Thada</span> The 19th century royal cenotaph built near the fort complex is the white marble marvel and serves as the memorial of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. It also houses some of the portraits of Jodhpur's precedent rulers, the intricate latticework and elaborately carved doors. The tranquil surroundings are enhanced by the presence of a beautifully designed garden and water tank in front of the cenotaph.</div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Jodhpur City Facts</span><br /></div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location:</span> Situated in Western Rajasthan, India. It is 308 km from Jaisalmer, 331 km from Jaipur and 589 km from New Delhi.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Climate:</span> Extreme climate and scanty rainfall in Jodhpur conforms to the typical desert climate.<br /><br /></div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">How to Reach:<br /></span><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Air: </span>Jaisalmer Airport in cantonment area and managed ny Indian Air Force has regular flights from New Delhi, Mumbai, Udaipur, Jaisalmer and Jaipur.<br /></div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train: </span>Trains connect Jodhpur to all the major cities of India, the most popular trains being Jodhpur-Jaipur Intercity Express, Jodhpur-Kota Express and Jodhpur-Bikaner Passenger.<br /></div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road: </span>Luxury coaches and good roads connect Jaisalmer to the major cities of Rajasthan such as Bikaner, Jaipur and Jaisalmer.<br /><br /></div></strong></span>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-58907024245416902212008-08-15T04:40:00.000-07:002008-08-15T04:46:44.642-07:00Jaisalmer<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234708042080893474" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhScSFySo9ybHxqftG4wxW4mEVgwKNyDAJ_9h3H6Yrmv3MMdcqOaRpcCNSqZkgabQbvIaxN5yj1McIYIzQUMN8UREnNxykbJraMgXfhtCSLSpUNtPuRlyJ-gBbXZZPaiwoZJzh0f-Bs11Y/s400/jaisalmer-fort.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Jaisalmer is set amidst the arid Thar Desert. Jaisalmer Fort is the most prominent feature of the city and is made up of yellow sandstone. The beautiful hue of the fort lends a stark barren look as it stands atop the cliff of Trikuta Hills and has stood up to the dry stormy winds and the scorching sun for centuries, ever since it was built in 1156. Some people even claim that materialization of this fort was prophesized by Lord Krishna, the head of Yadav clan long ago. Rawal Jaisal from Bhatti Rajput clan founded the city and the fort. He conceptualized this new capital for his princely estate after deserting Lodurva fort. The location was chosen as it was on the ancient silk route and hence, soon evolved into an important trade and commerce center. Natural beauty takes a very different meaning at Jaisalmer as we become acquainted with the beauties of the extreme climate and get to look at natural elements beyond the waterfalls, rivers and the greens.The blinding windstorms of the desert, the rolling movements of the hump-backed camels, the haunting music and dexterous steps of the desert natives that have faced the extreme climate for generations and the sand dunes that move like tall sea waves, all lend an 'Arabian Night' feel to the city. Then there are charming legends related to medieval concepts of valor, chivalry and romance that still haunt every nook and corner of the fort. The daunting structures with delicately latticed stonework and the dark brown people dresses in multicolored attires attract the tourists. The turbans and the moustaches of the makes and the unique jewellery designs and long-flowing skirts of the women are not less interesting.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Jaisalmer's Prime Attractions<br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Jaisalmer Fort</span> The second oldest fort of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer Fort is from the 12th century and stands atop the 250 ft high hill that provides some of the fantastic views of the desert around the city. The four gateways that one has to pass through before reaching the fort are Akhai Pol or Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhuta Pol and Hawa Pol.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Salem Singh ki Haveli, Patwon ki haveli and Nathmal ki Haveli</span> Havelis of Jaisalmer were the magnificent houses of the rich merchants of the former kingdom and exude architectural and sculptural perfection and grandeur. The blossoming wild flower at the top of the Salem Singh ki Haveli, Patwon ki Haveli that reflects the intricate brocade, gold and silver embroidery work designs, the business of its owners that extended from Afghanistan to China, and Nathmal ki Haveli built in 1885 by Nathmal and his brother as a gift to the Rawal or the Prince of the estate. However, they were allowed to retain it.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Gadsisar Lake</span> The rainwater lake showcases the evolution of the concept of the rainwater conservation in the ancient times and has managed to create an oasis in the desert with green environs. There are small temples around it along with a beautiful museum and many folklore tales are woven around the area.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Sam Sand Dunes</span> Sam sand dunes, 42 m from Jaisalmer, are quite famous. It is situated at the borders of the Desert National Park. The sunsets and sunrises here are quite like a fairy tale setting while camel rides give you a feel of being a part of the desert country.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Desert Festival</span> The three-day long Desert festival showcases the imperial, virant, rich and colorful culture of Rajasthan with Gair and Fire dancers as its highlights along wit the camel polo and camel dance, the two unique and exclusive events organized here. Other interesting events to look at are the turban tying competition and display of long glorious moustaches by the natives.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Jaisalmer City Facts</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location: </span>Situated in western Rajasthan. It is 413 km from Jaipur and 630 km from Delhi.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Climate: </span>Jaipur has a typical desert climate with scorching and dry summers and stormy and chilly winters.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">How to Reach:</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Air:</span> Domestic flights to and from New Delhi, Jodhpur and Jaipur are available from the Jaisalmer Airport in the cantonment area, 5 km away from the city center and managed by the Indian Air Force. It remains operational only from September to March.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train: </span>Jaisalmer has most trains to and from Jaipur though it is well connected to other major cities such as Agra, Jaipur, New Delhi and Mumbai. The railway station is just 10 minutes from Gadi Sagar Pol.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road: </span>Luxury coaches and motor able roads link Jaisalmer to the major cities of Rajasthan such as Bikaner, Jaipur and Jodhpur. The main Bus Stand is near the Railway Station. However, other buses can be caught from the Bus Depot situated at the city centre.<br /></strong> </span></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-73717267538785135312008-08-15T03:26:00.000-07:002008-08-15T03:41:31.117-07:00Jaipur<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234689553703775954" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf6ZzUVcRBJ9dTdlos6Pgw5zd3jiFPaHuupdH4kR2quB1WMfmPqyHTazDPDNCUg8rwNpBAhAx45xB3ec38TuTfBU5aTDqupC4dTlahpUDwDK_AtXO1_sq4sLQ6zM0v34wPLfFk47qOsBc/s400/hawa-mahal-jaipur.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Sawai Raja Jai Singh founded Jaipur, which is now the capital of Rajasthan, the Land of Rulers. The city has evolved into a great tourist attraction in India and is one of the three cities of the acclaimed Golden Triangle of India besides Agra, the city of Taj and Delhi, the capital of India. The fantastic forts, pompous palaces, full-of-life temples, multihued bazaars, effervescent streets have earned it a special place in the hearts of the people. Its uniqueness lies in the use of a rusty pink color that envelops all the structures and edifices of the building and has earned the city its oft-used name, 'The Pink City'. The color was meant to 'welcome' the Prince of Wales in 1876 and was envisioned by the then ruler Ram Singh II as an effective scientific way to cut down the severe glare of the sun.It is compulsory for everybody residing in the old city to maintain this distinctiveness of the city. The name 'Jaipur' has dual emphasis - 'Jai' means victory and was also the first name of its maker while 'pur' meant city. Most of its house has beautiful latticed windows with intricately carved lattices. Govind Deo ji ka Mandir is perhaps the most magnificent temple of the city while Galtaji has natural springs to boast of. The three massive forts of the city are the Nahargarh Fort, the Amber Fort and the Jaigarh Fort. Jal Mahal or the Water Palace is a perfect royal retreat while the sprawling mansions of the City Palace recreated the times of Kings and Queens with its rugged exteriors and tasteful interiors. Hawa Mahal has almost become the icon of Jaipur tourism.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Jaipur's Prime Attractions</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Amer Palace</span> Raja Man Singh built the 16th century palace using an eclectic mix of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles. The palace complex houses the stunning edifices such as Jai Mandir, Sheesh Mahal, Sukh Niwas and Ganesh Pole.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Hawa Mahal</span> Delicate stone screen façade made in the style of a honeycomb is the key point of Hawa Mahal or the Wind Palace. The latticed windows and beautiful trellises and intricate carvings embellish the multi-layered look of Hawa Mahal. Raja Sawai Pratap Singh, the grandson of Sawai Jai Singh, built it in 1799 to enable the ladies of the royal household to look at the colorful bazaars and the proceedings of the court without being seen.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span></strong> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">City Palace</span> A part of Chandra Mahal or the City Palace is still the private residence of the erstwhile royalty of Jaipur while the rest is occupied by the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum that has various sections related to rare manuscripts, Mughal carpets, armory, regal costumes and textiles and Mughal and Rajasthani miniature paintings.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Nahargarh Fort</span> Raja Jai Singh II built Nahargarh or the Tiger Fort in 1734. It was then known as Sudarshan Garh. One of the three forts of Jaipur, it provides some of the most breathtaking views of the Man Sagar Lake and its scenic surroundings.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Jai Garh Fort</span> Sawai Jai Singh built this fort prior to Nahargarh in 1726 and it is similar to Amber Fort in architecture. The stately canon 'Jaivana', which is the largest wheeled canon in the world can be seen here. The fort also houses a museum; three water tanks and some good views of Amber.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Samode Palace</span> 40 km from Jaipur, Samode Palace belongs to Rajput royalty that has now been converted into a heritage hotel run by the family. Apart from the Rajput Haveli architecture and picturesque landscaping of the gardens and lawns, the facilities, treatment and services provided to the guests here is also reminiscent of the past royal traditions.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Jal Mahal</span> Water Palace of the 18th century, this island palace is situated in the Mansagar Lake and cast mesmerizing reflections of its magnificence and majestic bearing in the water. One can also cross the bridge and visit the royal cenotaphs nearby.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Government Central Museum</span> </strong></span><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Colonel Sir Swinton Jacob founded the oldest museum of Rajasthan in 1876, known today as the Government Central museum or Albert Hall Museum. The edifice has Indo-Persian architecture and is situated in the Ramnivas Gardens. It has utilitarian metal objects on its display along with Bundi, Kishangarh, Kota, Udaipur and Jaipur schools of miniature paintings, traditional ceremonial dresses for the royalty and the wood block printing.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh</span> Built for Sisodia queen, the wife of Raja Sawai Jai Singh II, it has gorgeous multi-tiered gardens featuring fountains, pools and painted pavilions along with sculptures that are fabulous to look at.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Vidyadhar's Garden</span> The garden is dedicated to Vidyadhar, the chief designer of the Pink City and has been remodeled recently. It is situated picturesquely in a narrow valley and has high hills all around it. It has also served as the vineyard of the royalty in the past and has been terraced. The royal resort is also fitted with beautiful fountains, pool and pavilions to give it an imperial look.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Jantar Mantar</span> The observatory built by Raja Sawai Jai Singh is three-storey-high. It was built between 1728 and 1734 and its name means 'Magical Device'. The masonry instruments of this observatory are so accurate that their readings can compete with the most modern astronomical instruments.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Elephant Festival</span> Held in March or April every year on Holi, it features parade of a number of bedecked elephants at the Chaugan stadium, where a prize is given to the 'mahout' (caretaker) of the best-attired elephant. Other interesting events here are Elephant Polo and tricks performed by these giant beasts and folk and cultural songs and dances.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Jaipur Festival</span> A recently started event to promote tourism in the city, it is celebrated in the month of November annually and features programs, competitions and felicitations meant to revive old customs and traditions of this princely state. It ends on 18th of November, which is supposed to be the 'birthday' of Jaipur.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Jaipur City Facts</span><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Location:</span><br /></span>Situated in Rajasthan in North India. It is 259 km from Delhi and 232 km from Agra.<br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Climate:</span><br /></span>Hot and sultry summers characterize Jaipur while winters are cold with pleasant and sunny days but hazy evenings and temperature as low as around 5ºC in the nights.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">How to Reach:</span><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">By Air: </span>Jaipur's airport is 20 km from the city centre and has daily domestic flights to and from Delhi, Mumbai, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Ahmedabad, Jaisalmer, Aurangabad and Kolkata.<br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">By Train: </span>Jaipur is well linked by trains but some of the best options from Delhi are Shatabdi Express, Intercity Express, The Pink City Express and Chetak Express and from Mumbai, the Super Fast Express. To travel royally, opt for specialty trains like 'Palace On Wheels' and 'The Royal Orient'.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road: <span style="color:#000000;">The cen</span></span><span style="color:#000000;">tral</span> bus stand is at Sindhi Camp and connects Jaipur to Delhi, Agra and other major cities of Rajasthan with frequent deluxe and luxurious air-conditioned government and private bus services.<br /> </strong></span></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-40193530404592037422008-08-15T03:12:00.000-07:002008-08-15T03:24:50.746-07:00Hyderabad<div align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234685558492837666" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvO8_PFhKgcWHPprwFtotGadggef04Y2dJfnWFjAbIs2M3WpSA4xNW4zosCCVYQiakzLPt7g79MH6kJO93hgOWQe2b4yir8-9yVkQwC5tb6zN1MtHHZsOjpc92VN7GtGl4XNXNS_0r-Z4/s400/charminar-hyderabad.jpg" border="0" /> <span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Hyderabad is more than 400 years old. It is endowed with natural beauty such as hills, tanks, forests and rock formations that can captivate the hearts of the tourists along with the harmonious co-existence of diverse cultures - the Muslim-dominated old city where the Charminar is located and the Anglo-Indian community that is centered around Secunderabad, the modern twin city of Hyderabad known for its industrial growth and enterprise. Richly endowed with architectural legacies of the Medieval, Mughal, Colonial and Indo-Saracenic period and sporting latest sleek and elegant glass and chrome skyscrapers and commercial centers, Hyderabad was founded by the fifth Quli Qutub Shahi ruler, Mohammad. The original city spread had Charminar at its center. The city had been the capital of the famous Nizams of the Asaf Jah dynasty until it went over to British.The twin city Secunderabad was founded in 1798 by Nizam Sikander Jah and later merged with Hyderabad. The minarets of Hyderabad are almost as famous as the pearl market and the artisans of the city that are skilled in piercing and stringing pearls with precision and delicacy. Hyderabad is famous all over the world for its pearls and also the colorfully attired gypsy tribes called 'Lambadas' and 'Banjaras' that mostly make their living by performing dances and other acrobatic tricks for entertaining the tourists or shooting for Bollywood movies. The city is also known as the second Silicon Valley of India after Bangalore because of its Software Technology Park housing giant IT industries such as TCS, Wipro, Baan and Satyam. The unique and delicious piquant Hyderabadi cuisine includes inspired vegetarian Muslim dishes that use coconut, tamarind, peanuts and sesame seeds as their flavors and chilli as the key spice. 'Gosht', meat of a baby male goat, is one of the most popular dish here and is cooked in literally hundreds of ways.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"><strong>Hyderabad's Prime Attractions</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Charminar:</span> The central point of old Hyderabad, Charminar was built by Mohammad Quli Qutub Shah in 1591 to commemorate the eradication of plague from Hyderabad.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Mecca Masjid:</span> Mecca Masjid can accommodate 10,000 devotees at a time and is one of the largest mosques in India and the biggest in Hyderabad. It was started during the reign of Sultan Muhammad Qutub Shah, continued to be built up during the reigns of Abdullah Qutub Shah and Abul Hassan Tana Shah and finally got completed in 1694 by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Golconda Fort:</span> The phenomenal daunting Golconda fort is more than 400 years old and is situated on the outskirts of Hyderabad city.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Salar Jung Museum:</span> Hyderabad presents the largest collection of antiques in the world that is property of just one man! </strong></span><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Salar Jung Museum exhibits over 35,000 artifacts such as Chinese Porcelain; Aurangazeb's Sword; Noorjehan's, Jehangir's and Shah Jahan's daggers; Sculpture including the translucent white marble statue known as Veiled Rebecca, a masterpiece by Bezzoni; Indian paintings and Persian carpets. The most loved sections of the museum are the the Arms section, the Jade section and the Oriental Section.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Hussain Sagar Lake:</span> Built by Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah in 1562 in the honor of Hussain Shah Wali, the man who cured him of his illness, Hussain Sagar Lake forms a link between the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. The other name of the lake known as Tank Bund belongs to the time, when the area served as the cantonment area of Secunderabad.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Jama Masjid:</span> The oldest mosque of Hyderabad, Jama Masjid was built by Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah in 1597.St. Joseph's Cathedral:Most beautiful Cathedral of Hyderabad dedicated to Saint Joseph, it is situated in the Gun foundry area.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Birla Mandir:</span> Built by the Birla family, this modern massive temple, made up of Rajasthani marble, is situated on the shores of Hussain Sagar Lake on the 'Kala Pahad', the twin hillock of 'Naubat Pahad'. The temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Birla Planetarium:</span> Atop the Naubat Pahad is the beautiful dome-shaped edifice of the Birla Planetarium. Late Mr. N.T. Rama Rao inaugurated it on 8th September, 1985.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Falaknuma Palace (Star of Heaven):</span> The fabulous and gorgeous palace built by Nawab Vikar-ul-Umra Bahadur stands atop a 650 m high hill and is quite unique in conception.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Hi-Tech City:</span> Hi-Tech City on the outskirts of the city is the hub of IT industries and Software companies. </strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">High Court:</span> The Mughal building in 1916 looks quite stunning and is made up of local pink granite and red sandstone. Vincent Esch, the British architect who designed the building richly endowed it with carved panels and columns and has been estimated at a cost of 2 million rupees.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Qutub Shahi Tombs:</span> The domed structures with a square base and pointed arches all around are the tombs of the Qutub Shahi. The casket visible in the center of each tomb is actually an imitation of the real burial vault in a crypt below. The few reminiscent hints us that these domes were once overlaid with blue and green tiles.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Paigah Tombs:</span> The tombs of Paigah nobles at Santoshnagar belong to the relatives of Nizams and are more than 200 years old. Their uniqueness lies in their lime and mortar construction, beautiful carvings and the marble inlay work on them.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Chote Hazrat Ki Dargah:</span> Housed Devan Devadi, it was built by Asif Jahi rulers in the memory of Hazrat Ali, the son-in-law of prophet Muhammad. The majesty of the Dargah is enhanced by its row of arches and 400 stairs that leads up to the main Hall of Worship.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Raymond's Tomb:</span> A close friend of Nizam and a French mercenary Michel Raymond was buried in Saroornagar in east Hyderabad. The 7 m high black marble tomb has initials 'JR' on it and an annual commemorative 'Urs' fair is held here.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Sanjeevaiah Park:</span> Sanjeevaiah Park has been named after the former President of India, Mr. Neelam Sanjeev Reddy. It is situated on the shores of the Hussain Sagar Lake and is a recreation center featuring a rose garden, rock garden and a floral clock.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Nehru Zoological Park:</span> Sporting over 250 species of fauna, this is one of the biggest zoos in Asia and features the lion safari park, pre-historical animals park, natural history museum, nocturnal birds and children's park with a toy train ride.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Hyderabad City Facts</span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span></strong><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location:</span> Situated in Andhra Pradesh, India.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Climate: </span>Hot steppe climate is distinctive of Hyderabad. The best season to visit the city is November to February. The monsoon season is to be avoided as Hyderabad receives heavy rainfalls and is warm and humid during the season.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">How to Reach:<br /></span><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Air: </span>Well connected with flights to Bangalore, Bhubaneshwar, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Nagpur and Vishakhapatnam, Hyderabad also has an international airport.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train: </span>Hyderabad is connected by railways to Bangalore, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other major cities in Andhra Pradesh and India.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road: </span>Excellent roads including National Highways 7 and 9 and bus services and connect Hyderabad to all the major cities in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and the surrounding states.<br /><br /></div></strong></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjoRNR9XI4vP7q7HAqPyI6t4PaqTwsjiDNlhD3PAy_bwQxAoCYmM_2j-4zzV_A10z751EqSu2lCboYDD0ev2MquA7TVyyFy3DTrDpU7vAIFccFknpSeawIi4U8DGAjU3PLoZgiFEPdUA8/s1600-h/charminar-hyderabad.jpg"></a><div align="justify"><br /><br /></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-78259165596592680992008-08-15T02:52:00.000-07:002008-08-15T03:08:18.199-07:00Delhi<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234681508512351122" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgicMaewFymu6k2zWo8Tz32CpNeSHX3cNyjx17EhBEhDxeYIwP3Ggasq9MOnB_l9bl0DW8ZwTcPc3hfJakG81hGAwHqkrxck0C33dIXcF_Bf2gKgZ5pYqvhWzMG-vpTZ-iz_XPyGs2wRmM/s400/1.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>The Capital of India, Delhi has been a political centre stage for centuries and has passes through the hands of Hindu Rajputs to the mighty Mughals and then to the British invaders who ruled India for long. The well planned and sophisticated European-style buildings, gardens and wide roads are attributed to the later period. The rich architectural, historical and cultural heritage of the city is said to be more than 2500 years old. Chauhans ruled it in the 12th century but since Qutab-ud-din Aibak laid siege on the city, it was ruled by Delhi Sultanate from 1206 to 1526 and then, by the Mughal empire until 1857. British dethroned Delhi as being the capital of India until 1911 though it was important commercial centre and constructed a better twin sister to the city called the New Delhi, which houses most of the important administrative buildings today.Today, Delhi is an ever-expanding metropolitan city, an important travel and commercial hub of India and can boast of several sprawling markets and the rich culture that has all the ingredients from the modern sophistication to more casual old-world charm. Today, people from all over India migrate to Delhi to look for better career and education options and medical facilities and thus, people of different religions and regions have learned to live together in perfect harmony and freely partake in each other's festivals. There is no limit to tourism options in Delhi but the highlights are the Lotus Temple or Bahai Temple, Humayun's Tomb, India Gate, Qutub Minar, Jantar Mantar, Rashtrapati Bhavan (from outside), Red Fort, Raj Ghat, Shankar's International Dolls Museum, National Museum of Natural History, Nehru Memorial Museum, Planetarium & Library, and National Rail Museum.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"><strong>Delhi's Prime Attractions</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Qutab Minar:</span> The tallest structure of its time, Qutub Minar was 72.5 m in height with a mosque at the base. It was started in 1199 by a Qutab-ud-din Aibak and finished by his heir IItutmish. The 5th century Iron Pillar of Mehrauli standing in its premises is a wonder for it has not rusted till yet and is a proof of the advanced metallurgy of the times. It is said that if one can hug the pillar backwards, his or hers any wish is granted, however, tourists are not allowed to do so. People are also not allowed to climb up the Qutub Minar for there have been many cases of suicide attempts from here. The structure is surrounded by several ancient ruins that are shrouded in the mystery of myths and legends.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#ff0000;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Red Fort</span>:</span> The best of all the structures in Delhi, Red Fort or Lal Qila is an imposing and huge red sandstone structure built on the shores of River Yamuna and was built by. Shah Jahan when he shifted his capital from Agra to Delhi. Completed in 1648, its two main entrances are Delhi Gate and Lahori Gate. The latter opens up in the famous Chandni Chowk market. The fort houses an archeology museum, Diwan-e-Am or Hall of Public Audience, Diwan-e-Khas or Hall of Private Audience along with several structures with specific purposes. The 'Sound and Light Show' held here every evening in both Hindi and English languages is a must-see and narrates the history of Delhi with most beautiful performances.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Jama Masjid:</span> Jama Masjid, the largest mosque of India, was built by Shah Jahan. Started in 1650, it took six years and more than 5000 workers to complete. The emperor and his courtiers used to to go to the mosque every Friday for the congressional prayers. The splending Mughal period structure of the mosque has three massive gateways, the eastern one being the largest and the highest, reserved for the the emperor. The red stone courtyard sprawls across 408 square feet and has a large marble tank in the center for ablution. The three onion shaped white marble domes adorn the main mosque and are inlaid with stripes of black slate. 130 ft high minarets on the north and south of the mosque complex look quite beautiful. Jama Masjid the sacred hair from beard of the Prophet and the original chapter of the Holy Quran written by Him.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Raj Ghat:</span> The memorial of the Father of The nation, Mahatama Gandhi stands at the place where he was cremated and consists of a simple square platform with the words 'Hey Ram' written on it. The Gandhi Memorial Museum nearby displays books and tapes containing the writings, speeches and memories of Gandhiji. One can also visit the Shanti Vana, the memorial of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India and Indira Gandhi, his daughter and the first and only women Prime Minister of India. There are memorials for her sons Rajiv Gandhi and Sanjay Gandhi too, who were prominent political leaders of India.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">National Zoological Park:</span> The biggest and finest National Zoological Park of South Asia, Delhi Zoo was established in 1959. It is an open-air enclosure and its huge cages cover the area of 214 acres, where more than 2,000 animals from varied species have found a safe haven. It is the topmost favorite picnic spot, especially for kids.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Chandni Chowk:</span> Besides the Red Fort, Shah Jahan's favorite daughter Jahanara designed the shopping area of Chandni Chowk that was built in 1650 opposite the Lahori Gate of the fort. The 'chowk' means 'square' and had a pool in the center that reflected silvery light called 'chandni' of the moon on the moonlit night thus earning the name of 'Chandni Chowk' to the area. Other believe that it was so called because of the silversmiths that originally occupied the area. The original arcade was built in a half-moon shape and has evolved now to a flourishing trading center that branches into a number of narrow bylanes in all directions. It is a must visit for the most fulfilling shopping experience and some real good bargains.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Jantar Mantar:</span> With large masonry tools, Jantar Mantar is an observatory built by the ingenius designs of Raja Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur (1699-1743), an honored noble in the Mughal court. Sawa Jai Singh was a keen astronomer and made huge achievements in the field by designing accurate tools to correct the existing astronomical tables and contemporarize the almanac. The observatory in Delhi is first of the five built by him. The others were built in Jaipur, Varanasi, Ujjain and Mathura. The most famous tools here are the Samrat Yantra, an equal hour sun dial, the Ram Yantra that reads altitudinal angles, Jai Prakash Yantra used to check the position of the sun and other celestial bodies and the Misra Yantra, which had the qualities of all the scientific gadgets mention above.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Humayun's Tomb:</span> His Persian widow, Haji Begum, designed the UNESCO World Heritage site, the garden tomb of Humayun, in the mid-16th century. It is said to be a landmark in the evolution of Mughal mausoleums. The tomb is located centrally in a geometrically planned garden watered by a number of water channels passing throuhg it, just like the gardens of Persia. Its architecture, especially its main chamber is inspired by the tomb of the Mongol Ilkhanid ruler of Persia, Oljeytu, at Sultaniyya, which is said to be the replica of the tomb of Timur (Tamerlane) in Samarkand, the lineage of Babur. It introduced Persian double dome for the first time in India and is harmonious in its proportions. Indian influence can be seen in the small kiosks or chhatris on the roof. The beautiful inlaid tile work and intricately carved stone screens adorn the building.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Lotus Temple Or Bahai Temple:</span> Fariburz Sahba, an Iranian-born Canadian architect, designed the temple of the Bahai faith, Lotus temple. Erected in the shape of the flower after which it is named in 1986, it symbolizes purity. Its nine petals represent the highest digit and unity as indicated in the Bahai faith. There are nine pools too to cool the stark, elegant interiors of the structure. Its delicate and sleek architecture is built in two layers and resembles origami work. The Hall of Worship conforms to that of all Bahai temples and a pin-drop silence is maintained there at all times. The only religious icons there are the Holy Scriptures and wooden pews.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Delhi City Facts</span><br /> </strong></span></div><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location:</span> The Capital of India, Delhi occupies a strategic position in North India and is 220 km from Agra and 259 km from Jaipur.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Climate: </span>Extreme tropical climate with hot and dry summers and cold winters.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">How to Reach:<br /></span><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Air: </span>A number of international and domestic flights connect Delhi to other parts of the world and major cities of India.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train: </span>Trains link it to all the Indian cities as it is the political and commercial capital of India.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road: </span>An extensive network of roads and frequent bus services connect Delhi to Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.<br /><br /> </strong></span></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-14864197307217806962008-08-15T01:22:00.000-07:002008-08-15T01:35:01.297-07:00Coimbatore<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234658324055744274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeQnYma3ipJp3tqsnyerGEIC0ShCzmHNlXKLDs8Fq-JLhNNqAk_5COdLZsNqtIzg4BYMy4RB4FUSWMMTZwmG7KWSOeoU-3iyjlYrIXSt_9zdl3a5c48StdOhTJxyPdW52uh2p4KTaP9iE/s400/Tnagri_varsity.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Coimbatore is the Textile Capital of South India. Situated near Western Ghats, it one of the most industrialized cities Kerala and has a rich black soil, wonderful for the growth of cotton. It is this yield that gave birth to the agricultural industry flourishing today and the famous textile industry of the city. The first textile mills were set up here in 1888 and today, they have multiplied to over 100 of the most renowned mills here and contribute greatly to the prosperity of the city. Yet, Coimbatore has managed to maintain a pollution free environment and has earned the title of 'Manchester Of The South'.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>The ancient manuscripts state that the Irula tribal chief Kovan and his clan founded Coimbatore as the viilage of 'Kovanthupur'. Till then, forests covered the area. The city has a pleasant climate all the year round and especially; the fresh cool breeze of the 25-km stretch of Palakkad gap breathes new life in the visitors. Coimbatore serves as an important entry and exit point to Kerala from its neighboring state and Ooty, also known as Udagamandalam. One can enjoy the ride of the Mountain train that runs from Mettupalayam, 35 km from Coimbatore and visit its famous educational institutions such as the Coimbatore Agricultural University, one of the best colleges of its kind in South Asia.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Coimbatore's Prime Attractions</span> </span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;"> <span style="font-size:130%;">Thiruppur:</span></span> 50 km from Coimbatore, the textile market of Thiruppur is famous for hosiery products. The place is known as the birthplace of 'Thiruppur Kumaran', one of the most renowned freedom fighters.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">V O C Park:</span> Named after V. O. Chidambaram, this children's park features a mini Zoo, models of prehistoric dinosaurs, toy train and amusement park.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Thirumoorthy Temple:</span> Situated at the foothills of Thirumoorthy Hills, the temple near the Thirumoorthy Dam is quite popular. Dedicated to Sri Amalingeswarar temple, it has a waterfall nearby too make its scenery even more picturesque. One can also visit the Crocodile Farm, 25 km from here, at Amaravati Dam.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Perur Patteeswaraswamy Temple:</span> Perur Patteeswaraswamy temple, 7 km from Coimbatore, is one of the most popular temples here and houses giant statues. Its has been mentioned by Arunagiri Nather and Kachiappa Munivar, the famous poets, in their works.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Khadi Gandhi Gallery:</span> Set up on 15th July 1970, it has a picture gallery on Gandhiji capturing his life right from his birth to his death and including rare photographs such as 'Journey through Harijan Life', 'Family', 'Friends', 'Independence Struggle', 'Jail Life' and 'Peace Talks'.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Forest College Museum:</span> One of the oldest of its kind in the country, the Forest College museum exhibits fossils and dead specimens of plants and animals, even the rare ones. You can also get counseling regarding plant husbandry here.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Coimbatore City Facts</span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span></strong><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location: </span>Situated in Tamil Nadu, India.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Climate: </span>The pleasant tropical climate with mild and warm sunny days characterizes Coimbatore throughout the year.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">How to Reach:</span><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></div><div align="justify"><br /></span><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Air:</span> Peelamedu airport is just 10 km from Coimbatore and has regular flights to and from Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi and Madurai.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train: </span>A major railway junction of Southern Railways, Coimbatore has regular trains to and from Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Kochi, Rameswaram, Madurai, Kanyakumari, Kozhikode, Mettupalayam and Mumbai.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road: </span>Smooth roads connect Coimbatore to all the major cities of South India.<br /></div></strong></span><p align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span></p><p align="justify"><br /> </p><span style="font-family:arial;"><div align="justify"><br /></div><strong></strong></span><p align="justify"><br /> </p>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-82914529781233060602008-08-15T01:12:00.001-07:002008-08-15T01:21:58.605-07:00Cochin<div align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234654478410137986" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6eYPyCo3cDg6AfCNgjo8cOuuaLR-AZNwUmQ6VY-CXlzfKYE0ci5837SRuEjNF72LbfTkl0G4UHMPI55Ig9SNmY_M_lBchK4ZyUSzIvDTltKxIRbp2XMcZtwlR7CV7cy8kOK5s_q0oiRU/s400/fishing-nets-cochin.jpg" border="0" /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Cochin or Kochi is often known as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea'. Justifying its nickname, it has a rich past, a vibrant present, is a port that works all the year round and is one of the leading business hubs of the state since long. It is divided into many parts inter-linked with ferries that comprise of the mainland of Ernakulam; the islands of Willington, Bolgatty and Gundu; and Fort Cochin, Vypeen Island and Mattancherry on the southern peninsula. The seaport has been a major cause of the culture and lifestyle of the city being influenced by those of visiting foreigners since the ancient times such as the Chinese, Jews, Arabs and Europeans. Cochin is home to the oldest church in India, the still-operational Chinese fishing nets, 500-year-old Portuguese houses, Jewish synagogues, Chinese pagoda style houses and mosques. </strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>The serene backwaters and beautiful lagoons of Cochin bordered by coconut palm trees and picture-perfect tropical islands make it quite popular with the tourists. See glimpses of medieval architecture of Portugal, Holland and England in the old buildings of Fort Cochin and Mattanchery situated on the Malabar Coast. Cochin has evolved into the largest ports of India and a major naval base nowadays. The 16th century narrow, winding and canal-lined streets of Fort Kochi and the Jew Town seem to create a mini Europe in India. The spice trade flourishes even today and Cochin has retained its title of being the Spice Capital of India.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Cochin's Prime Attractions</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Dutch Palace, Mattancherry:</span> Originally built by Portuguese in 1557, Mattancherry Palace was also known as the Dutch Palace since the time, they renovated it after gaining its control in 1663. The exteriors of the palace are stark with white walls and sloping brown roofs. There is a small temple of the deity Palayannur Bhagwati inside its premises and the interiors have beautiful paintings adorning the walls and ceilings. The Central Hall on the upper storey had an intricately carved wooden ceiling and was used for the coronation ceremony of the Rajas of Cochin. The ceiling of the Dining Hall has a series of brass cups while the one at the Assembly Hall is the best with breathtaking murals depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. These murals are among the best in India and cover approximately 300 sq ft of wall. It also has a museum showcasing regal memorabilia such as costumes, palanquins, turbans and weaponry from the days of the Cochin rajas.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">St. Francis Church, Fort Cochin:</span> Fort Cochin, the oldest European Settlement in India, houses St. Francis Church, which was the first European Church of India. In 1503, Rajah of Cochin gave permission to the Portuguese Alphonso Alburquerque to build a fort at the mouth of the river with a church of wood dedicated to St. Bartholomew. In 1516, a new church was built to honor St. Antony. When Dutch arrived in 1663, they demolished all the convents and churches of the place and converted them to their Government Church. However, the Church of the Franciscans was spared. The church has Portuguese gravestones to its north and Dutch gravestones to its south with the stone of Vasco da Gama. It is now a protected monument since April 1923 under the Protected Monuments Act of 1904. There is a cenotaph here too erected in 1920 to honor the martyrs of Cochin who fell in the First Great War.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Willington Island:</span> Lord Willington was the Viceroy of India. Willington Island, named after him, is connected to the mainland Ernakulam by Venduruthy Bridge and houses some of the district's best hotels, commercial and industrial offices. It has an airport, a shipbuilding yard, wharf, the Southern Naval Command Head Quarters and the customs house too along with the Government of India Tourist Information Office. The center of all the commercial and industrial activities, it has branches of national and international banks, travel agencies and souvenir shops warehouses too.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Mangalavanam:</span> </strong></span><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>The small bird sanctuary, Mangalavanam, in the Ernakulam District of Kerala has Bharath Petroleum Company to the north and the east, Emakulam Railway to its south and Salim Ali Road 16 and Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute to its west. It has a shallow tidal lake in the center bordered by thick mangrove vegetation, which is connected to the backwaters by a canal. Mangalavanam has a congregation of communally breeding birds, a former timber and a guesthouse, which was renovated in 1986.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">The Pareekshit Thampuran Museum: </span>This archeological museum exhibits 19th century paintings, pre-historic monuments, old coins, stone scriptures, Plaster of Paris scriptures, mural paintings and other such memorabilia that were part of the collection from the Cochin royal family. The Durbar Hall of Kochi Rajas is built in traditional Kerala style where they used to greet the guests of the royalty and organized official ceremonies and meetings. It has been renamed after Rama Varma Parikshith Thampuran, the Family's last ruler.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Kathakali Centres:</span> Kerala's traditional dance drama form known as Kathakali evolved in the 8th century from another dance form known as 'Ramanattam' that was invented by Kottarakkara Thampuran. The themes of Kathakali are inspired by Indian mythology and folklore and performers are assisted by vocal and percussion accompaniments. Expressions of face and eyes are the key movements of this dance. Kathakali costumes, tall headgears and elaborately painted faces along with the elemental masculine vigor have made it quite popular among the visitors. Some of the noted Kathakali centres in Kochi are India Foundation near the Ernakulam Junction Railway station, the Cochin Cultural Centre behind Medical Trust Hospital, Art Kerala, Valanjambalam and many others where one can watch daily performances usually held in the evening. One can also see Kathakali dance at the Kerala Kathakali Centre functions at Fort Cochin. </strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Jewish Synagogue, Mattancherry:</span> Perhaps the only place in India where Jews are still residing, Kochi boasts of a Jewish Synagogue built in 1568. It is the oldest synagogue in India and was partially destroyed in the war of 1662. Later, Dutch rebuilt it. The clock tower was added in mid 18th century along with the hand-painted blue willow tiles from China that are more than two hundred years old. None of these tiles are alike. The unique interiors boast of a Belgian chandelier, the great scrolls of the Old Testament and the copper plates that keep the records of the grants of privilege made by the Cochin rulers to the Jewish community in the 4th century. It also has five finely wrought gold and silver crowns on its display that were gifted to the synagogue. One can know about the history of the Jews in Kerala from the rabbi who lives here. One can still see Jewish culture and tradition flourishing and hear the use of the Hebrew language in Jew Town around the Mattancherry Synagogue.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Cochin City Facts</span></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span></strong><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location:</span> Situated in Kerala, India.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Climate:</span> The seashore affects the tropical climate and keeps it moderately warm all the year round. The area receives heavy rainfall with an annual rainfall of about 310 cm. </div><div align="justify"><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">How to Reach:</span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Air:</span> The domestic airport has regular flights to and from Agatti, Bangalore, Coimbatore, Delhi, Goa, Madras, Mumbai and Trivandrum while the Cochin International Airport has regular international flights to the Gulf. Other important international airports near Cochin are Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore and Trivandrum.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train: </span>An extensive railway network links Kochi to the rest of India by an extensive network of railways and the most important railway stations in the city are Cochin Harbour Terminus, Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road: </span>Cochin is connected by three important National Highways and many good motorable state roads and frequent bus services to and from all the major cities of South India.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Sea: </span>Kochi is a natural port that works all the year round and is connected to Kottayam and Alleppey enroute the scenic backwaters of Kerala via regular boat services.<br /> </strong></span></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-86823933383147489102008-08-14T05:51:00.007-07:002008-08-14T08:08:48.039-07:00Chennai<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234387834602968002" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEwi0VQLBe2TAirO8RmzLcEYcNyMevOIwBdBC2xJ2rYJUHcUHCZ77sGyHhKjjwkBj3fGBzdWTLb43k8iZtztRy_ETJCkyPj2fXM31egTJS6rWgzMwxdDWGKkbMt1Drq5sWcnQc4Q6j4dE/s400/chennai-city.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>The fourth largest metropolitan of India, Chennai or Madras is the capital of Tamil Nadu. The city sports a 17 km stretch of the Coramandel coast and is divided roughly into three parts by the Cooum and Adyar waterways and the Buckingham Canal. With its distinct culture that differs to that of the North Indian culture, it is said to be the 'Gateway to the South'. An important musical, dance, art and cultural centre of the South, Chennai is also a significant industrial, trade and commerce centre. It presents a unique blend of the past and the present and one can find all the varieties of traditional to latest trends in the city.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Traditional vegetarian food along side fast foods, nine-yard sarees vis-à-vis latest fashionable attires, ancient temple architecture along with modern Indo-Saracenic and Victorian architectural styles and classical music and dance performances to thrashing beats of discos can all be seen in Madras. One can see beaches, parks, sanctuaries and glimpses of a rich historical legacy in the city. It is said that Chennai originated as a small fishing village in 1639 called Madraspatnam, which received early English merchants. It has a number of churches from the times of St. Thomas and several ancient temples, the most prominent being a temple in Triplicane and another in Mylapore.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;"><strong>Chennai's Prime Attractions</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Fort St. George:</span> Built during the period of British East India Company in 1640, it houses St. Mary's Church and fort museum. The church is the oldest Anglican Church in India and was built in 1680 and houses the oldest British tombstones in India in its courtyard. The ancient prayer house was the place where Robert Clive and Governor Elinu-Yale were married, who later founded the famous Yale University in the States. The fort is used today as the offices of the State Legislative Assembly and the secretarial offices of the Tamil Nadu government. It has the tallest flagstaff in India.There is a war memorial in its south that was built in 1939 in the memory of the martyrs of the the First World War. Its Island Grounds, situated on an island formed by the river Cooum is known for its natural beauty and greenery and is a popular venue for all the Trade and the Tourist Fairs. It also houses the High Court boasting of decorative domes and Indo-Saracenic corridors, which is an important landmark of Chennai along with the adjacent Parry's corner. The Fort Museum has many relics belonging to the period of East India Company and British India on its display such as the weapons, uniforms, coins, costumes and medals along with the contemporary paintings.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Kapaleeswarar Temple:</span> </strong></span><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>It is the biggest temple in the city and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The inscriptions here date back to the 13th century and is a fine specimen of the Dravidian style of architecture. The 37-m has intricate carvings inspired from Hindu mythology. </strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Sri Parthasarathi Temple:</span> The 8th century temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, was built under the patronage of the Pallavas and houses the idols of the five avataras of Sri Vishnu. A small temple shrine in its premises is dedicated to Vishnu's consort known as 'Vedavalli Ammai' by the natives.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Santhome Cathedral:</span> Situated at the southern end of Marina Drive, Santhome is named after St Thomas, the apostle of Christ who came to Madras in 52 AD to spread the message of Christianity. It is said that he was killed on St Thomas Mount just outside the city in 78 AD and was buried on the San Thome beach. A curch was later constructed here, though his remains were later transferred to another church built further inland. In 1606, this new church was rebuilt as a cathedral that became a basilica in 1896, which is known for its beautiful stained glass window showcasing the story of St Thomas. The Central hall has 14 large wooden plaques depicting scenes from the last days of Christ. Another highlight is a 3 ft high statue of Virgin Mary that was imported from Portugal in 1543.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">The Marina Beach:</span> The famous 12 km long Marina Beach is the second longest beach in the world and looks especially beautiful in the early mornings and late evenings when it cirtually becomes a fair ground with numerous food stalls and other entertainments.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">The Theosophical Society:</span> The world headquarters of the Theosophical Society is in Adyar. The society studies comparative religion and philosophy and was founded by Madame Blavatsky and Col. Olott in USA. The headquarters moved to India in 1882 and now features shrines of all faiths, peaceful Garden of Remembrance and a 95-year old library with a rich collection of rare original oriental manuscripts written on palm leaves and parchment.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Kalakshetra:</span> Kalakshetra or 'Temple of Art' is situated In Thiruvanmiyur, beyond Elliot's beach. Rukmini Devi Arundale founded it in 1936 to promote Bharatanatyam, the classical dance form of the state and local handicrafts of textile designing and weaving. The institution is the finest of its kind in the country and follows the ancient gurukulam system. It conducts music, recital and dance performances in different parts of Chennai all the year round.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Birla Planetarium:</span> The Birla Planetarium at Kotturpuram is the latest planetarium in the country with a fully computerized projector to depict the skies. Near it, there is a Periyar Science and Technology Museum meant to encourage the interest of students in science.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">National Art Gallery and Government Museum:</span> This museum is in Egmore and was founded in 1857. The incredible and well-organized sections of museum have various relics on display related to archaeology, geology, anthropology, numismatics, sculpture, armory, botany and zoology. </strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Anna Square:</span> Anna Square at the northern end of Marina Beach is the place where Dr. C.N. Annadurai, former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu was buried. About 30 km from the city, there is a huge Anna zoological park spread across 510 hectares, featuring safaris in the park, a nocturnal animal house, an Aquarium, Natural Museum and many others.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Valluvar Kottam:</span>The temple-chariot shaped memorial is dedicated to the famous Tamil poet-saint Tiruvalluvar is the replica of the one at Thiruvarur. The 33m tall chariot houses the life-size statue of the saint and is inscribed with 133 chapters of the poet's famous work Thirukkural in stone in the front hall corridors of the chariot. The memorial also houses the Asia's largest auditorium that can accommodate about 4000 people.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;">Chennai City Facts</span></strong></span></div><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><p><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location:<br /></span>Situated in Tamil Nadu, India.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Climate:</span><br />Chennai has hot and humid tropical climate with frequent rains and almost same temperature throughout the year.<br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;">How to Reach:</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Air:<br /></span>Chennai has Kamaraj Domestic Airport and Anna International Airport, which is at Tirusulam, 20 km from the city.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train:</span><br />The railway network connects Chennai to all the major cities in India. The main railway stations of Chennai are Madras Central and Egmore.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#ff0000;">By Road:</span><br /></span>It is easily accessible from other major cities of Tamil Nadu and the surrounding states.</strong></span></p>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-30351555456661340752008-08-14T05:51:00.006-07:002008-08-14T07:54:52.078-07:00Bikaner<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234385085181582482" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5_axogGUCbbTt7V_iwXOM7B8fe2BYHcy2kwciKcyRu5mWUhNjPXBE7J3tDRhr8wqpkErKR4NoEvaZ_Zd80zewJaC-TbGR9Q8sT14kdmPD-5BykxgtmM0gOILORutG2fKID9eQvUZLGmI/s400/bikaner.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Bikaner offers awesome scenes of Thar Desert with majestic sand dunes, hard scorched rocky soil and thorn shrubs that look quite attractive to adventurers and committed travelers. It is enlivened by the sight of the red sandstone fort and architectural heritage that gives a royal look to the surrounded by a fortification wall, which is 5-9m high and is more than 5 km in circumference. One of the cities of the Desert Tour Triangle, Bikaner reached its height due to its strategic location at the silk route, the famous path used by the tradesmen at the time when camel caravans were a common sight. Rao Bikaji founded the city in 1486 AD. The other highlight of the city is the Camel Breeding Farm, only one of its kinds in Asia and the much-famous Camel Festival.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Traditional vivid-colored costumes of the natives and the bright and vivacious fairs and festivals that display native paintings, murals, wares, arts and handicrafts attract tourists to the city. The Camel Festival is held on the full moon night every year in January and is famous for many unique events such as camel races, camel dances and camel rides along with the exotic performances of Rajasthani folk songs and dances. Kite Festival on Teej bears a special significance here as it commemorates the day, when the city was founded. Karni Mata Fair, dedicated to the royal deity of the Bikaner rulers, is held at Deshnoke twice a year on the ninth day of the Navratra.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;"><strong>Bikaner's Prime Attractions</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Junagarh Fort</span> The fort was built during the reign of Akbar, by his contemporary Hindu ruler Raja Rai Singh and has a record of being unconquered till date. The only dent in this history was the brief seizure of the fort by Kamran who could not retain it for more than 24 hours. The precincts of the fort houses 37 palaces, temples and pavilions. They used red sandstone and marble for their construction and were richly embellished with mirror work, paintings and stone carvings. The highlights of the Fort are the Suraj Pol or the Sun Gate, the main doorway of the fort; Chandra Mahal or Moon palace; Phool Mahal or Flower Palace; Karan Mahal or Karn Palace; Anup Mahal; Hall of Public Audience Hall; Hawa Mahal or Wind Palace; Badal Mahal or Cloud Palace; Rang Mahal or Color Palace) and Dungar Mahal. The Fort Junagarh Museum offers a wide range of manuscripts, carpets, jars, jewellery, armory, treaties, and several other royal trivia on its display. The Fort remains closed for the visitors on Fridays.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Lalgarh Palace</span> Sir Swinton Jacob designed this palace and it was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh. This daunting building uses eclectic combination of Oriental style delicate latticework and European style luxurious overhanging balconies and terraced lawns. Natural beauty is enhanced by the presence of peacocks and bougainvillea bushes in the palace while the Library displays a rich collection of rare, original Sanskrit manuscripts on parchments, copper and gold or silver plaques. Palace Museum or Shri Sadul Museum is housed on the first floor of the palace and exhibits well-preserved hunting trophies, royal costumes and other trivia that belong the former rulers such as camera, golf tees, camera, books, electric toothbrush of the former 'maharaja', his earplugs and old photos. The Palace remains closed on Wednesdays.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum</span> This museum offers you an invaluable insight into pre-Harappan, Gupta, and Kushan pottery, carpets, paintings, Bikaneri miniatures, armory and coins along with local arts of the area.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Camel Breeding Farm</span> Very near to Bikaner is the unique camel research and breeding center, only one of its kinds in Asia. It had its origin in the Camel Corp of the British army and today houses more than 250 camels and cute baby-camels that are a great tourist attraction. Kids love to ride the camels here. The visit to this farm is free but it remains closed on Saturdays. However, on second Saturday of the month it is opened for two hours from 3 to 5 pm.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Deshnok </span> 30 km from Bikaner, the 600-year old Karni Mata Temple holds a special significance to the natives of the city as it is dedicated to the Goddess Karni Mata, the royal deity of the former rulers of Bikaner. It is perhaps the only place where you can find thousands of rats in the temple that are fed by the devotees and are provided a safe sanctuary here because people believe that they are actually the holy men devoted to Goddess who came here to live in the temple in this form. There is only a single white rat here and to spot is considered a lucky omen. The temple remains open from 4 am to 10 pm.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;">Bikaner City Facts</span></strong></span></div><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;"><div align="justify"><br /></span><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location:</span> Situated in Rajasthan, India. It is 256 km from Jodhpur, 354 km from Jaipur and 480 km from New Delhi.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Climate:</span> Arid desert climate with hot days and chilly nights.<br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;">How to Reach:<br /></span><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Air:</span> The nearest airport is 17 km from the city and is known as Nal Airport. Though, an airfield for Indian Air Force, it remains open to civilian flights in the tourist season from November to March. The international airports near Bikaner are in Jodhpur and Jaipur.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train:</span> Well connected by trains, Bikaner is linked to and from Agra, Churu, New Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, Kolkata and other major Indian cities. The railway station is located centrally.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road:</span> The Rajasthan tourism and private buses including air-conditioned buses and luxury coaches link Bikaner to all the major cities such as Agra, Ajmer, New Delhi and Udaipur. The bus station is just opposite the Lalgarh Palace</strong></span></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-19833552174429237152008-08-14T05:51:00.005-07:002008-08-14T07:42:13.814-07:00Bhubaneshwar<div align="justify"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234381099359600690" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeKzXKZnb4J3mPk1XwiUnG20d176VfpVt02hRhQ2SSAa8RQreYaz8QvS9X5sqa3HW-aQ84F2hoHZSd2JAftImja0isM3z93Ni0JzB2WaeCUyfScQ4iUB7Ajcoe7rAtOnDo87SkyG9-mwM/s400/bhuvaneswar.jpg" border="0" /> <span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><br />The 'Temple City of India', Bhubaneshwar is said to be the seat of Tribhubaneswar or Lord Shiva who are said to reside there in the form of Lord Lingaraj. It is an important Hindu pilgrimage centre and one can find temples sprouting in every nook and corner of the city. It is said that during the temple building frenzy, there were more than 2000 Orissan style temples in the Old Town that evolved to a full-fledged art over a period of over 1000 years. The new city has buildings with modern look and extensive infrastructure.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>T</strong></span><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>he best known temples in the city are those of 6th century temples dedicated to brothers of Lord Rama known as Laxmaneswar, Satrughaneswar and Bharateswar, 7th century tamples of Parsurameswar and Swarnajaleswar, 8th century temple of Vaital, 10th century temple of Mukteswar, 11th century temples of Brahmeswar, Rajarani and Lingaraj and 13th century temple of Ananta Vasudeva. Bhubaneshwar is also the Capital of Orissa. Its other highlights are BDA Nicco Park, Ekamra Kanan, the biggest Rose Garden of Asia, Orissa state Museum, Pathani Samanta Planetarium and the Tribal Museum & Handicrafts House.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;"><strong>Bhubaneshwar's Prime Attractions</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Parashurameshwara Temple:</span> This mid-7th century temple is the earliest temple structure of Bhubaneshwar, which is preserved almost intact. The Parasurameswara temple conforms to the temple architectural style of its time and has only eight planets over the door to the inner sanctum instead of nine that appear in the later temples. It was repaired in 1903, when a little modification was done in the roof. It is a small temple that shows the early stages of evolution of the Orissan temple architecture such as the beehive-shaped tower or 'deul' and the porch in front of the tower called 'Jagamohan'. The tower has inward-tapering stories and lotiform corner pieces.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Vaital Deul:</span> While the Parasurameswara and Mukteswara temples represent major Kalinga style of Orissan temple architecture, Vaital Deul built in 800 AD belongs to the the Khakhara order, a subdivision of the Kalinga school used for shrines devoted to tantricism. The unique 'deul' of the temple is rectangular in shape and is positioned at a right angle to the 'Jagmohana'. The horseshoe-shape of the chaitya arch and an absolutely plain outer surface of the roof vault characterize this temple. The more common 'deul' form is inserted in miniature form, on the four corners of the Vaital Deul's porch, lending the temple an exceptionally proficient style of sculptural beautification.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Mukteshwar Temple:</span> Mukteswar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It was built in 950 AD and has awesome carvings showing ascetics in several poses of meditation. The magnificent 'torana' or the ornamented arched gateway of the temple is its highlight and is reminiscent of Buddhist influence on Orissa style of architecture.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Rajarani Temple:</span> Famous for its richly ornamented 'deul, the 11th century Rajarani temple is built in impressive Oriya temple architectural style. There is no presiding deity of the temple and it is named after the red-gold sandstone used in building it. The 'deul' sports figures engaged in daily chores. There are statues of eight 'Dipalakas' guarding the eight cardinal directions of the temple at the base of the 'deul' and the gaps between them are filled with nymphs, embracing couples, elephants and lions. The temple looks quite picturesque and dramatic as the sun sets.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Brahmeswara Temple:</span> Built in 1050 AD, Brahmeswara Temple is situated in a middle of a courtyard bordered by four smaller temples.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Lingaraja Temple:</span> The 10th or 11th century, Lingaraja temple of Bhubaneswar is a rare masterpiece. According to Ferguson, the noted historian, it is the finest and purest form of Hindu temple in India and has intricate and elaborate carvings adoring every inch of the temple. This temple is 55 m high. The harmonious sculptural and architectural beauty of the temple is quite imposing. Hindus consider that devotees visiting Jagannath temple at Puri must first offer worship at this temple.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Orissa State Museum:</span> This museum has a rich collection of the evolution of sculpture in Orissa, stone inscriptions, archeological findings, stone and bronze-age tools, rare copper plates, palm-leaf manuscripts, paintings, anthropological specimens and musical instruments of the region.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Handicrafts Museum:</span> Here, you can see the folk paintings, horn toys, brass castings, and sculptures made by the tribals and the local natives of the region.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Tribal Museum:</span> Orissa has a number of native tribes and this museum offers you the rare opportunity of viewing the various aspects of their life and culture such as the type of houses in which they live, their costumes and jewellery, how they make their living, their dances, musical instruments and songs and their handicrafts.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;">Bhubaneshwar City Facts</span></strong></span><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location:</span> Situated in Orissa, India.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Climate:</span> At 45m above sea level, Bhubaneshwar has mild cool summers but hot summers.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">How to Reach:</span></div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Air:</span> Bhubaneshwar has domestic flights to and from Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, Nagpur, Raipur, Varanasi and Visakhapatnam.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train:</span> It is well linked by trains to Bangalore, Delhi, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Madras, Puri, Tirupati and Trivandrum.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road:</span> National Highway No. 5 connects Bhubaneshwar to Kolkata and Madras along with other major cities.</strong></span></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-47994987860424422322008-08-14T05:51:00.004-07:002008-08-14T07:28:35.000-07:00Bangalore<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234377741259487490" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSfz_e4Kvvn5qIjQ2PLXs_sAjYrtypMw3SlG003etWtldZgfFxY3GVEOhKiNBvtc3ZVT2dBZf3jiaOAaeafThzD8jrMONrNr9C-3J45b2PZLU_UbSTy-5-tLxcPoAJVKN2WJeUXjlPLuA/s400/bangalorecity.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Bangalore is the seventh largest cosmopolitan city of India and is the capital of of Karnataka. It has many nicknames. The beautiful gardens and parks lending natural beauty to Bangalore has earned the title of 'Garden City' while the latest software and technological advancements have earned it the title of the 'Silicon Valley'. Founded in the 16th century, Bangalore is an important administrative, historical, commercial and industrial center today. The numbers of historical monuments in the city are just stunning. It is said that the city's name means 'boiled beans' in the native language.It has been named after a local legend, which narrates that an old woman living in the village here offered 'boiled beans' to a hungry and lost wanderer, who turned out to be the famous Hoysala ruler, Kempegowda. The chief later founded the city and built a small mud fort here. In the 18th century, Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan of Mysore glorified this fort by standing up to the mighty British armies from here. Later, British crushed Tipu Sultan and took over Bangalore. In 1831, they stabled a big military cantonment here and made it the regional administrative city.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;"><strong>Bangalore's Prime Attractions</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Cubbon Park:</span> Spread across 300 acres, the park was laid by Lord Cubbon in 1864. A favorite spot for jogging and strolling through Nature's delights, Cubon Park has tranquility and natural beauty along with red Gothic majestic buildings of the State Central Library and the High Court too. The library has a rare treasure of books and a stone and fluted pillars architectural style. Its walls are finished in lime plaster. Diversity of flora in the park is just astonishing while the several popular institutions have chosen it as its venue such as the Cheshire Dyer Memorial Hall, Ottawa Chatter, Museum, Century Club and the Press Club.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Lalbagh Gardens:</span> Started off as a small fruit orchard in the times of Hyder Ali, Lalbagh gradually expanded as Tipu Sultan brought and planted several exotic tree species here such as Cypress, Thuja, Junipers, Grapes, Guavas, Raspberries and Strawberries and other European flora. It saw its prime during the times of John Cameron, who infused this royal retreat with a new life by introducing a number of fruits, vegetables, spices, medicinal plants and aromatic plants here. He even built the Lalbagh Glass House for a better display of flora and its parts were imported from England. It took only 12 hours to complete and till now serves as the office premises of the Karnataka Horticultural Society. This society offers free advice to those interested in flowers and gardens and has a giant Electronic Quartz Flower clock on the show. </strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Vidhana Soudha:</span> A tribute to temple architecture, this imposing 46-m high building made up of dressed Bangalore granite houses the Legislative Chambers of the state government. One of the Bangalore's most important buildings, it was built in pure Indian style under the instructions of Mr. Kengal Hanumanthaiah, the then chief minister of Mysore. The four domes gracing its corners and the four-headed lion, the National Emblem of India adorns its main entrance. There are 22 departments and 300 rooms in this building. </strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Jawahar Bala Bhavan:</span> This amusement park is the children's first love and the Dolls Museum and the toy train that weaves its path around the park are the best loved highlights of the recreation center. A 20 million year old fossilized tree housed in the park was gifted to it by the Geological Survey of India. It also has boating facility and a small fair ground along with film shows for kids and the theatre performances at the Vijayaranga Theatre.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">The Fort:</span> The mud fort of KempeGowda built in 1537 is situated opposite the City Market. Tipu Sultan fortified it and expanded the Fort and introduced intricately carved Islamic-style arches on the gate walls. The religious tolerance of TIpu, who himself was the follower of Islam, is reflected in the presence of the well-preserved Ganapathi Temple in the premises of the fort and the gorgeously carved Sri Krishna playing his flute on one of the outer walls of the fort.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Tippu's Palace:</span> The wooden palace known as `Rashk-e-jannat' or the 'Envy of Heaven' near the fort was started by Haider Ali and completed by Tippu himself in 1791 on the lines of the Daria Daulat Palace at Srirangapatna, the capital of Tipu Sultan. It has five ornately decorated arches with their exquisite minarets and paintings on its walls and ceilings.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Indian Institute of Science:</span> Founded by the Tatas, this premier science institute has been the research place of many famous Indian scientists including the Nobel Prize winner C.V. Raman and space scientist Vikram Sarabhai. Its stately buildings are in classic European style, with a central quadrangle decorated with attractive Persian motifs. On February 1, 1911 Krishna Raja Wodeyar, Maharaja of Mysore, laid the foundation stone of the grand main building. The Institute has 22 departments of various branches of science, and a collection of over 2,68,000 books.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Government Aquarium:</span> The Govt. Aquarium is housed in an octagonal building, enhancing the beauty of Cubbon Park. It exhibits the largest number of indigenous and exotic, cultivable as well as ornamental pet fish. The Hocks stick, the Pearl Coushmi, the India Tiger Borb, the Moon Tail, as well as edible fish welcome the visitor. The Aquarium provides food for thought, but if you want to taste the fish, there is a fish stall here.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Gandhi Bhavan:</span> Gandhi Bhavan, as the name suggests, is dedicated to the life and teachings of Gandhi ji, the Father of India. The Gandhi Smarak Nidhi housed in this building sport a comprehensive well-organized picture gallery on Gandhi ji covering many important events and days of his life from his early childhood to his death. The gallery also has framed letters and their photostat copies of letters written by Gandhi to various eminent personalities of his day.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;">Bangalore City Facts</span></strong></span><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location: </span>Situated in southern Karnataka.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Climate: </span>Bangalore has moderate and pleasant climate with mild summers and cool winters. Monsoon season extends from June to August.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;">How to Reach:</span></div><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;"></span><div align="justify"><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span style="font-size:130%;">By Air:</span> </span>Bangalore has daily domestic flights to and from Ahmedabad, Chennai, Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata, Mangalore, Mumbai, Pune and Trivandrum and direct international flights to Muscat, Sharjah and Singapore. Bangalore also serves as a stopover for many long-distance international flights.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train:</span> Bangalore has two railways and is well linked to other major Indian cities by trains including daily express trains.<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road:</span> Smooth roads link Bangalore to all the major cities while buses are available from its large bus terminus to Chennai, Hospet, Mumbai and Mysore and also the surrounding excursions.</strong></span></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-35704410251602471442008-08-14T05:51:00.003-07:002008-08-14T07:07:27.356-07:00Ajmer Sharif<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234372336801871650" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-sr5txDmjaOa1lswQ8mtji4fvviKiT6U5ktL65KCKEh7whbJ3nT7nPpUMW6eNhZSx4s5fV8fK5jkq98vInEY66EgqUNzMoALv2oGGBEil87FEpWkdjfCAyx-mFRBT91duXPWMhZSloUI/s400/ajmer-sharif.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>In the lap of Rajasthan, Ajmer is an oasis surrounded by barren hills but having a fertile history. Raja Ajai Pal Chauhan founded it in the 7th century and his dynasty continued to rule the city until the famous romantic chivalrous heroic King Prithviraj Chauhan finally lost the city to Mohammed Ghauri. The culture and traditions of the city were strongly influenced by the rulers and still one can see find its expression in modern Ajmer. It is a popular pilgrimage centre for both Hindus and Muslims because of the 'Dargah Sharief', the tomb of the famous and kindhearted Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Both Muslims and Hindus revered Chisti equally and the Urs fair held on his death anniversary attracts thousands and lakhs of pilgrims every year. This six-day long festival is quite a popular event in Ajmer. People visit Ajmer Sharif, which is held in great reverence by the devotees, as it is the place where the relics and remains of Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chishti are buried. Khwaja was Persian by birth and was the founder of Chishtia order of 'fakirs' in India. Besides the dargah, Taragarh Fort and the Adhai Din Ka Jhopra are amongst the most visited places in Ajmer.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"><strong>Ajmer's Prime Attractions</strong></span></div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Taragarh Fort</span> The gigantic fort overlooking the city and having six entrance points houses Miran-Saheb-ki-Dargah. It is the tomb of the governor of the fort who died fighting valiantly. The fort offers excellent views of the city along with the bordering Nagpahari hills of Aravalli ranges. It has a rich history and significant archaeological importance.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Adhai-Din-Ka-Jhopra</span> A much antiquated version of the modern mosques, this Indo-Islamic masterpiece was built in 'Adhai Din' meaning 'two and a half days'. It has a front screen wall with seven pointed arches and distinctive pillars and arched screen with ruined minarets.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Dargah Sharif'</span> Dargah Sharif' meaning 'Holy Dargah', is the tomb of the Sufi saint Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chisti, who migrated to India from Persia and devoted his life to the help and upliftment of the poor. It is one of the most sacred Muslim shrines in India and is venerated by both Hindus and Muslims. Its massive gate has silver doors. Many Moghuls ranging from Humayun to Shah Jahan contributed to build this mosque. The actual tomb of the saint is built in marble with a gold-plated dome and is surrounded by a marble screen with a silver railing.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Ana Sagar Lake</span> The artificial lake named after Anaji Chauhan is a popular picnic spot for the people of Ajmer. It has a 'Baradari' surrounded by beautiful parks and elegant pavilions. It was built by Shah Jahan to pass time during his long stays in Ajmer. The catchments have strong Rajasthani influence to their constructions as the locals built them.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;">Ajmer City Facts</span></strong></span></div><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;"></span><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location: </span>Situated in Rajasthan, India. Ajmer is 131 km from Jaipur and 389 km from Delhi.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Climate: </span><span style="color:#000000;">I</span></span>nfluenced by the nearby desert climate, the summers in Ajmer are hot while winters are cool. The best time to visit the place is from November to February, when the days are only mildly sunny and are pleasant while nights bit cooler.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;">How to Reach: </span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;"></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Air:</span> The nearest airport to Ajmer is in Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train:</span> Trains to Ajmer are available from all the major cities of India. The best options from Delhi are Shatabdi Express, The Pink City Express and Chetak Express.<br /></div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road:</span> A good network of roads connects Ajmer well to Delhi, Agra and all the major cities of Rajasthan.<br /> </strong></span></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-84902718766328079862008-08-14T05:51:00.002-07:002008-08-14T06:49:39.341-07:00Ahmedabad<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234367291619389490" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUdLb6VqhiNAHvmxHeA8eOeSqQvmAJLNXx1L_6iJFD-BOdpbmmA3qMFHE58lKhY3_Xf-yiNIhYEbyUIqNNl-BOoN8ipbNK6Cf8j-7fk86uZ_XlFMEY3FBH4pap1Ohn1uf5F0s4S7Ceeok/s400/sabarmati-ashram-ahmedabad.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;">Sabarmati Ashram established by Mahatama Gandhi is the focal point of Ahmedabad. Its cotton textile industries have earned the city the nickname of the 'Manchester of the East'. Ahmedabad has been named after its founder Sultan Ahmed Shah, who founded it in 1411 on the banks of River Sabarmati. In the 17th century, Ahmedabad had acquired a special in some of the most prosperous Indian cities and emerged as a key trade and commerce centre. Economic depression in the 18th century caused a slip to the hands of British.However, it was Mahatama Gandhi who immortalized the city in the history of India by launching the National Freedom Movement for India from here. The second largest industrial centre of Western India, Ahmedabad is an eclectic mix of the traditional old and the modern metropolitan city. The large number of mosques in the city such as the mosques of Shah Alam, Rani Rupmati, Ahmed Shah and Sidi Saiyad with unique and distinctive architectural styles has popularized the city as the 'city of mosques'.</span></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></strong> </div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">Ahmedabad's Prime Attractions</span></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></strong> </div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Sabarmati Ashram</span> A prominent centre and the launching pad of the National Freedom Movement, Sabarmati Ashram was established in 1915 on the banks of River Sabarmati founded by Gandhi ji. In 1930, it was here that Gandhiji started on the famous Dandi March and till then, it has become symbolic of India's independence and freedom. Now, a nuseum dedicated to Gandhi and his family and life, it houses a library with scores of books on Mahatama Gandhi and his philosophy. It remains open to the visitors daily from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm and there are light and sound shows organized in the evenings four days a week, namely, Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.</span></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></strong> </div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Shaking Minarets</span> Shaking Minarets are a rare piece of Muslim architecture and are a part of Sidi Bashir mosque. The twin minarets display a unique 'resonance' effect, where whenever, one minaret is shaken, the other also starts rocking. They have a earthquake-resistant structure too. British unwittingly dismantled some of its portions in the attempt to try and understand their mechanism but were unable to put them back together successfully.</span></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></strong> </div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Bhadra Fort</span> Named after the revered temple of Goddess Bhadrakali in the premises of the fort, this fort is a cluster of royal palaces and well-planned gardens.</span></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></strong> </div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Hathee Singh Temple </span>The 19th century white marble Jain temple, which is highly carved, is dedicated to the 15th Jain apostle and is the best of all Jain temples in Ahmedabad.<br /></div></span></strong><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></strong> </div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Sarkhej Roza</span> The buildings of this elegant beautiful architectural complex have no arches and use pierced stone trellises.</span></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></strong> </div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Dada Hari Vav</span> One of the traditional Gujarati step wells, built by a woman of Sultan Begara's harem in 1501, is deserted but yet has a mysterious charm to its galleries. A series of steps leads to the lower and cooler platforms that offer relief in the hottest days of summer.</span></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></strong> </div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Kankaria Lake</span> An artificial lake built by Qutb-ud-din in 1451 with a fabulous island palace in the midst of the lake was the favorite retreat of Mughal emperor Jehangir who came to stay here with his wife Nur Jahan. It is a popular picnic spot for the families now and has an aquarium, a children's park and a zoo too.</span></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></strong> </div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Calico Museum</span> One of its kind, Calico Textile Museum is actually an intricately carved 'haveli' made of wood has rarest tapestries and wall hangings. It displays a rich collection of ancient and modern textiles, fabrics and costumes since 17th century, a reference library and some older weaving machines that are testimonials of the evolution of the textile industry since then.</span></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></strong> </div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;">Ahmedabad City Facts</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location:</span> Situated in Gujarat, India. It is 540 km from Mumbai and 1076 km from Delhi via Udaipur and Jaipur.</span></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Climate:</span> Ahmedabad has extreme tropical climate with very hot summers and chilly winters. Monsoons are humid and sultry and frequent rains characterize this season.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3366ff;">How to Reach:</span></span></strong></div><div align="justify"><br /><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Air:</span> Ahmedabad's domestic airport has flights to and from Calcutta, Chennai, Bangalore, Delhi and Mumbai while its international airport has flights to various overseas destinations.</span></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"><br /> </div></span></strong><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train:</span> Trains link Ahmedabad to Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Udaipur, Calcutta, Chennai and other major cities of India.</span></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"><br /> </div></span></strong><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road:</span> Government and private buses and luxury coaches connect Ahmedabad to major cities of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi and Rajasthan.<br /> </span></strong></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-82995793851178139182008-08-14T05:51:00.000-07:002008-08-14T06:34:11.969-07:00Mumbai<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234358216138022050" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL02loP0sk1ev3qbZeD6a7o239D8sdKm_qdcI69IXg2DhCXCYXzkNhYsrHTjAC4a_qJHIaScmoH66peAm0M8Q98R-TX3fGHSGICLpDOqaH8KJqiUY0XEw5q8Qkjq2ccksUt14bPZcF-bU/s400/chatrapati-shivaji-terminus.jpg" border="0" /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><div><br />Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is the Capital of Maharashtra. It is also one of the major commercial centers of India and is the seat of Bollywood, the Indian film industry. It is also a natural harbor and has a large number of business houses and corporate offices. The name 'Bombay' originated from the Portuguese phrase 'bom baia', which meant 'good bay'. The name Mumbai comes from the patron deity of the city known as Mumbadevi. Originally, Bombay was an archipelago of seven islands, namely Colaba, Mazagaon, Old Woman's Island, Wadala, Mahim, Parel, and Matunga-Sion. Many Stone Age tools and implements have been unearthed from these islands as the evidence of human life here since the ancient times. However, the coastal regions were once the home of the Koli fishermen community.Mumbai was a part of Ashoka's empire in the 3rd century BC and belonged to Silhara dynasty in the mid-13th century. The oldest structures of the city such as Elephanta caves and part of the Walkeshwar temple complex are believed to belong to this period. In 1534, Portuguese got hold of these iflands and built forts and chapels for the converted fishermen. In 1662, this archipelago was given to Charles II as part of the dowry of his wife Catherine of Braganza. The British developed the city as a commercial center and started factories in many places. In 1853, the first train ran across 35 km long track between Thane and Bombay and in 1854, the first cotton mill was founded in Bombay. Bombay gained the status of the capital of State of Bombay after Independence on 15th August, 1947, which was later renamed as Maharastra</div><div></strong></span></div><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Mumbai's Prime Attractions</span> </span></strong></span></div><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;"><div align="justify"><br /></span><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Chatrapati Shivaji Terminus</span> Also known as the Victoria Terminus or the Western Railway Station, this magnificent edifice stands at the site where Mumba Devi's original temple built by Kolis was situated. The structure boasts of being one of the finest architectural buildings of the railway stations of the world and presents a fusion of Gothic and Indian styles. Its construction was started in 1878 and it took nine years to complete it. The chief architect F.W. Stevens conceived the Italian Gothic building with over 1500 feet high frontage. It has a beautiful garden around which the administrative offices are situated and its entrance has massive masonry statues of Lion and Tiger. The 160-ft high dome crowning it has a figure of a woman with a torch held aloft at its top and look quite impressive.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Gateway Of India </span>The icon and the most important landmark of Mumbai, the Gateway of India is a huge archway at Apollo Bunder and was built to commemorate the visit of the King George V and Queen Mary here in 1911. </div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Essel World</span> The amusement theme park and the recreation center for children, Essel World has a treasure of more than 40 exciting rides, games and attractions. Its Water Kingdom is said to be the largest of its kind in Asia.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Mumbai Film City</span> The hub of Indian film industry known as Bollywood, Mumbai produces the second most number of movies in the world every year, next only to Hollywood in America.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Mumbai Fort</span> Mumbai Fort is now only a site where the old British fort, north of Colaba. The only remains of the fort are in the form of old and impressive buildings and the St. John's church, which was built in the memory of the martyrs of the Sindh campaign of 1838 and the first Afghan war of 1843.</div><div align="justify"> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Marine Drive</span> The most famous thoroughfare of the city, Marine Drive in central Mumbai was built in the 1920s on land reclaimed from the sea. It is also known as the Queen's Necklace because of the beautiful sight that the street lamps present her in the night. Now, it is known as Netaji Subhashchandra Bose Road and extends from Nariman Point to Babulnath, at the foot of Walkeshwar.</strong></span></div><div><br /><br /></div><div></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Chowpatty Beach</span> Chowpatty beach situated at the end of Marine Drive has a moderate expanse of sand and is the only beach in the central part of Mumbai. One can witnesses many Hindu religious ceremonies taking place at Chowpatty like the Annual Thread-Tying Ceremony initiating young boys into the Brahmin caste, 'Nariel Purnima' towards the end of the monsoons and 'Ganesh Chaturthi' immersions.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Flora Fountain</span> Situated at the Hutama Chowk, it was erected in 1869 in honor of a British Governor of Bombay known as Sir Brtle Frere. Five streets spring from this point and are known as 'Picadilly Circus of Mumbai'. The fluntain is adorned with the mythological figures at its four corners while in the center is a structure of dull stone with a figure the Roman Goddess of flowers at the top.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Juhu Beach</span> One of the largest and most visited beaches of India, Juhu Beach is situated on the shores of Arabian Sea and is famous for housing most of the famous film personalities of India. It is a prime location for shootings too. </strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Jijamata Udyan Zoo</span> Situated at Rani Jijamata Udyan Victoria Gardens that were laid out in 1861, Mumbai's Zoo boasts of many rare and endangered species of animals and birds. Sprawling across over 48 acres of area, it has a clock tower at its entrance that has stopped ticking a long time ago. The Albert museum in the gardens has a rich collection of local archaeological finds such as the giant stone elephant that guards the entrance. </strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Hanging Gardens</span> Built in 1880 and renovated in 1921, these gardens are also known as Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens. The terraced gardens are situated on the slope of a hill and offer panoramic views of the city, especially at dusk. </strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Kamala Nehru Park</span> Exotic views of the city from Malabar hills are not worth missing. Besides the Hanging Gardens, you can also explore the Kamala Nehru Park that was built in 1952 and named after the wife of India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. It sprawls across 4,000 sq. yards and offers fabulous views of the Marine Drive.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"><strong>Mumbai City Facts</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><strong><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;"></span></strong> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong> <span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Location:</span> Situated in Maharashtra, India.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Climate:</span> Mumbai has moderate tropical climate throughout the year though summers are a little hot and humid and winters are pleasanter. The monsoon season from June to September experiences heavy rainfalls.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:180%;color:#3333ff;">How to Reach:</span> </strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Air:</span> Mumbai has Santacruz Domestic Airport, 25 km from the city, and Sahara International Airport (nown known as Chatrapati Shivaji International Airport), which is India's major airports and works round the clock, 30 km from the city. Both these airports have regular flights connecting the city to all the major destinations within and outside India.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Train:</span> Mumbai has a train network that connects it to every Indian city and express trains connect it to every state capital. There is an extensive system of suburban electric train network too, which is the major form of transport in Mumbai itself.</strong></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">By Road:</span> National and State Highways link Mumbai to all the major towns and cities throughout India and has best public bus systems in the country.<br /><br /></div></strong></span><span style="font-family:arial;"><div align="justify"><br /><br /></div><strong></strong></span><span style="font-family:arial;"><div align="justify"><br /><br /><br /></div><strong></strong></span><span style="font-family:arial;"><div align="justify"><br /><br /></div><strong></strong></span><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span></div><span style="font-family:arial;"><div align="justify"><br /><br /><br /></div><strong></strong></span><span style="font-family:arial;"><div align="justify"><br /><br /></div><strong></strong></span><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="justify"><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><br /></div><div></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-52080989873063892012008-08-14T00:30:00.026-07:002008-08-14T01:47:10.415-07:00Taj Mahal<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234292068397245106" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg25paHlOVreVgzwNEmB9dnjgzD9S_fT12Y_zH4JmR1CkcMn3ocM2scqrhwHgEP6NuMszrxRxEgSK0-a9Ah4kjCbL7q0NAk57QXRRgQbG7OELAPXneYAqZHhestigx6kix3PEdPFyYhXNs/s400/taj-mahal-agra.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Declared a world heritage site in 1983, Taj Mahal is one of the most famous buildings in the world and the hottest tourist attraction in India. Situated in Agra, once the capital of Mughals, it is the mausoleum of Shah Jahan's beloved queen Mumtaz Mahal. An icon of Indian tourism, Taj is the befitting tomb to Arjumand Banu Begum (Mumtaz Mahal) after she died in 1630. It took twenty years, millions of rupees and hard labor of more than 20,000 craftsmen to finish this specimen of architectural wonder. Its construction was started in 1632 on the banks of River Yamuna and the best masters and architects were called from all over the world including from Italy, Persia and Turkey to contribute to its beauty.The white marble bulbous dome, beautifully laid Mughal gardens, ingenious waterways and pathways, the mosque and the rest house, all contribute heavily to give it the harmonious look. Even the main gateway has its wonders that are worth mentioning. Unlike the extremely hot marble exteriors, the interiors are quite cool and dark. It is ostentatiously ornamented with fine marble carvings inlaid with precious and semiprecious stones such as sapphire, topaz, coral and many more. The cenotaphs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal are surrounded by carved marble screen beautified by calligraphy and inlay work. The changing color of the Taj at different time of the day and season is quite mesmerizing and make it look truly paradisiacal.</strong></span></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-20186179907120893372008-08-14T00:30:00.025-07:002008-08-14T01:45:48.636-07:00Sun Temple at Konark<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234291693735137874" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqiQN8wskb_mkuuyvSfEitbtZG5qq8NzayWz3ZIi0hSyptwebOnGtX6QGjfvcuT-6Eed2Zt3nI6GRi5tIsseJcUNIju4wq5OF0croNc5paJKgC2BkAgaWoFnKzZLLNPJYOcwkQTjpqcSs/s400/sun-temple-konark.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Declared as the world heritage site in 1984, Sun temple at Konark in Orissa is situated on the shores of the Bay of Bengal. The 18th century temple is made in the shape of a huge chariot believed to be a likeness of God Surya's chariot. It is so positioned that it gets bathed in the rays of the rising sun. It has 24 wheels that are ornamented with symbolic designs and is led by a team of seven horses. It is said to be India's one of the most popular sanctuaries for Brahmans. The temple is said to mark the culmination of Orissan temple architecture and is one of the most wondrous specimens of the world's religious architecture. It was build by King Narasimhadeva in the honor of the sun god, Surya, a popular Hindu deity in the Vedic period.The 'Natya Mandir' or the Dance Hall in the temple is the most glorious example of the architectural excellence of the times. The seven horses and 24 wheels symbolize the divisions of time. It main tower is 227 ft high. Originally, there were 22 shrines inside its premises but only two of these subsidiary shrines exist today. There are intricate carvings on the walls and people to decorate their homes often use the likeness of the wheels of the chariot. These sculptures often depict court life, hunting, scenes and celestial deities in most graceful forms. Some of the sculptures are also inspired by Kamasutra and are quite erotic. Tourists also love to visit the Archaeological Museum here. The temple looks quite beautiful in the setting sun.</strong></span></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4854549307992926203.post-43935069056754415802008-08-14T00:30:00.024-07:002008-08-14T01:44:04.232-07:00Sundarbans National Park<div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><strong>Sprawling across 10,000 sq km, Sunderbans National Park has been enlisted as the world heritage site in 1987. Though more than half of the Sunderbans, the delta region of the mighty river Ganges is within the Indian Territory, rest of it is in Bangladesh. Sunderbans are famous as the world's largest mangrove forests including many rare and endangered species such as tigers, aquatic mammals, birds and reptiles. Situated in Piyali in West Bengal, these forest reserves are mainly known for their population of Royal Bengal Tigers and Ridley Sea Turtles. The area is full of swamps and is interwoven with a network of small rivers and streams. The Sundarbans National Park is so named after the abundance of the Sundari trees found here.Sunderbans is the delta region of the Ganges and the Brahmaputra, consisting of an alluvial archipelago of 54 islands in the Bay of Bengal. To the north are the Goasaba, Sandeshkali and Basanti islands, to the south is the vast expanse of May of Bangal, to the east is Bangladesh while to the west are the Rivers Matla and Bidya. The flora of the park is quite astounding, especially in April and May, when the flaming red leaves of the Genwa, the crabby red flowers of the Kankara and the yellow flowers of Khalsi are in their full bloom. There are more than 400 tigers in this wildlife sanctuary. One can also see the Chital Dear and Rhesus Monkey here besides the aquatic animals such as fishes, red Fiddler Crabs, Hermit Crabs and crocodiles. The reptiles found here include King Cobra, Rock Python and Water Monitor.</strong></span></div>Shafeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01453573210068854902noreply@blogger.com0