Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Travel Attraction Guide
Travel Attraction Guide
I N D I A
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
Junagarh Fort - Bikaner : It is an unassailable fortress, which has never been conquered. Built in 1593 A.D. by Raja Rai Singh, one of the most distinguished generals in the army of Emperor Akbar, the fort is a formidable structure encircled by a moat. The main entrance to the fort is Karan Pol [gate], that is east facing. Next to it is the Suraj Pol meaning the sun gate. The fort situates in it some very magnificent palaces like Anup Mahal, Ganga Niwas and Rang Mahal or palace of pleasure. Jaisalmer Fort : The fort stands almost 30 metres over the city and houses an entire living area within huge ramparts. Walking through the narrow lanes is an experience worth savouring. It is approached through Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhoot Pol and Hawa Pol. Also, within it are many beautiful havelies and a group of Jain temples dating from the 12th to the 15th centuries. Jaigarh Fort - Jaipur : At a distance of 15kms from Jaipur, stands the imposing Jaigarh Fort. Also called the Victory Fort, the Jaigarh Fort stands in the midst of thorn-scrub hills that impart a sterner look to the already forbidding Fort. As one approaches the fort from the steep road that leads to the main gate, the Dungar Darwaza, one cannot help but remark at the amazing view it offers of the city below. Nahargarh Fort -Jaipur : The Nahargarh Fort was built by Sawai Raja Jai Singh in 1734. Since Jaipur was his capital, the Nahargarh Fort was strategically important and was built as a means of bolstering the defense of Amer. It was also known as the Tiger Fort. New additions were made to the fort in the 19th century by Sawai Ram Singh II and Sawai Madho Singh II. The older parts of he fort are being hard hit by the ravages of times but the newer additions are quite captivating. Red Fort - Delhi : The red sandstone walls of Lal Qila meaning the Red Fort, extend for two km and vary in height from 18 metres on the river side to 33 metres on the city side. Shah Jahan started construction of the massive fort in 1638 and it was completed in 1648. The chief attraction of the Red Fort, is some very beautiful palaces and handsome public buildings, such as the Lahore gate the Diwan-i-Am, Diwan-i-Khas and Rang Mahal.
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
sandstone. Constructed during the first half of the nineteenth century, it defies the bleak and rugged reality of the Thar desert. Lallagarh Palace is a complete integrated example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, a perfect example of Sir Swinton Jacos creations. Laxmi Niwas Palace : Experience magical regal sensations as you stay at the erstwhile home of Maharaja Ganga Singhji of Bikaner - Laxmi Niwas Palace. This classic heritage palace in Bikaner Rajasthan enamors you with gold panel paintings, original objects d' art that belong to the royal house of Bikaner and antique decor as was the tradition in the days of the yore. Leh Palace - Ladakh : Leh Palace is situated on the edge of a hill overseeing the town below. It is said to be a miniature version of the Potala in Lhasa. Known as Lhachen Palkhar, the Leh Palace was built in the 17th century by Dharmaraja Singey Namgial. This nine-storied palace took three years to complete. It served as the royal residence until the royal family was exiled to Stok in the 1830s. Now, it houses the Ladakhi branch of the Indian Government's archaeological conservation organization. Mysore Palace - Mysore : Mysore Palace or the Maharajah's Palace located in the heart of the city at Mirza Road, is the most attractive monument in Mysore. One of the largest palaces in the country, also known as Amba Vilas, was the residence of the Wodeyar Mahararaja's of the Mysore state. The original palace built of wood, got burnt down in 1897 and was rebuilt for the twenty fourth Wodeyar Raja in 1912. Taj Hari Palace - Jodhpur : Spread over six acres of lush, landscaped gardens, this palace of the 21st century offers luxurious refinement. With its Marwar style architecture and Moghul-inspired domes, enameled murals, slender columns, and grand interiors, this is design that lives up to the fantasy. Located close to the city markets, nearby guests can find much to see and experience. Umaid Bhawan Palace - Jodhpur : The luxury palace was Maharaja Umaid Singh's residence and it boasts of being one of the largest and grandest private residences in the world. At the Umaid Bhawan Palace Hotel Marwar Hall offers a wide choice of Indian, Continental, and Rajasthani specialties. The luxury palace hotel offers a
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
variety of restaurants for dining, 'Pillars' is ideal for drink and snacks just like the 'Trophy Bar' is for variety of drinks
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
India Gate - Delhi :It has become the symbol of India for many. The monument was called the All India War Memorial originally. Edwin Lutyens built it (and much of the rest of New Delhi) to commemorate the Indian soldiers who died in the World War I and the 1919 Afghan Wars. Today it is one of Delhi's most popular parks. There is a small boat park and a children's area. Qutab Minar - Delhi : The Qutb Minar has also been designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. At about 238 feet, it is India's tallest tower and it is the tallest brick minaret in the world. Construction of the Qutb Minar was started in 1193 AD. The oldest mosque built by the Delhi Sultans, the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque built in 1198 AD, sits next to the Qutb Minar. Rashtrapati Bhavan - Delhi : It covers an area of 4.5 acres of land. It has 340 rooms, 37 salons, 74 lobbies and loggias, 18 staircases and 37 fountains. The house that houses the President of India and the house that boasts of having welcomed the most powerful men in history. The Rashtrapati Bhavan was designed by Edwin Lutyens and built in 1931, to be the central point of the British power in Delhi. Originally called the Viceroy's House, the Rashtrapati Bhavan covers an area of 4.5 acres of land. Taj Mahal - Agra : Taj Mahal, the one and only splendour of its kind. Dedicated to the eternal love between emperor Shah Jahan and Empress Mumtaz, it is counted as the most romantic monument in India. The unique Mughal style combines elements of Persian, Central Asian and Islamic architecture. Taj was built to memorialize pride or strength. Victoria Memorial - Calcutta : Victoria Memorial is arguably one of the most famous monuments in Kolkata. Every cliche picture of Kolkata must contain at least one picture of the Victoria Memorial. The foundation stone was laid by King George V in 1906.The domed and white marble museum sprawls over 64 acres and is set in a landscaped garden at the southern side of the Kolkata's maidan (ground) near Jawaharlal Nehru Road.
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
Kaziranga National Park - Assam : Kaziranga is also one of the world's biggest conservation success stories - from 12 rhinos in 1908 to 1,700 in 2005. This has put Kaziranga on the top of the world conservation map. It is situated in one of the "Biodiversity Hot-spots" of the world and is home to India's Big Four - the Great Indian One Horned Rhinoceros, the Royal Bengal Tiger , the Asian Elephant, and the Asiatic Buffalo. It is also home to the largest number of Swamp Deer in eastern India Keoladeo Ghana National Park or Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary - Rajasthan : Over 350 species of birds can be seen in this 29 sq km park, with a third of them being migrants, many of whom have made this park their wintering ground. As the park lies on the Central Asian Flyway of the Asia Pacific Global Migratory Flyway, it is a staging / wintering ground for a huge number of migratory waterfowl that breed in the Pale arctic region. The Park has one of the world's most spectacular heroines, which harbor a large number of resident and migratory birds. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary - Kerala : Set high amid the lofty ranges of the majestic Western Ghats, in God?s Own Country, Kerala, is the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Tiger Reserve. Periyar national park has a pictorial lake at the heart of the sanctuary. Constituted with the building of a dam in 1895, this reservoir wanders around the contours of the wooded hills, supplying a lasting source of water for the local wildlife. Ranthambore National Park - Rajasthan : It is positioned at the convergence of the Vindhyan plateau and Aravalli hill, in the Eastern region of Rajasthan. It is renowned for its magnificent Royal Bengal Tigers. In India, this Park is one of your best bets to observe tigers amidst their wild habitat. The rugged topography and the intense deciduous forests are key characteristics of this Park, which plays host to one of the most diverse and biggest group of wildlife species in the country. Sunderbans National Park - Bangladesh : A UNESCO World Heritage Site (awarded in '97) , Sundarban is a vast area covering 4262 square kms in India alone, with a larger portion in Bangladesh. 2585 sq. kms of the Indian Sundarban forms the largest Tiger Reserve and National Park in India. The total area of the Indian part of the Sundarban forest, lying within the latitude between 2113'-2240' North and longitude 8805'-8906' East, is about 4,262 sq km, of which 2,125 sq km is occupied by mangrove forest across 56 islands and the balance is under water.
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
Is unparalleled in India. Swaying palm trees, soft sandy stretches with plenty of sunshine attract tourists from all over the world. The unusual word 'Calangute' is derived from the local term Koli-gutti meaning land of fishermen. Enjoy the natural beauty of small fishing villages of Arpora-Nagoa, Saligao and Candolim which dote the landscape. Kovalam Beach - Kerala : Kerala the land of green magic offers some of the best beaches in India. Kovalam the 'Paradise of the South' with its golden glowing sands, crystal clear waters and swaying coconut trees has made its mark on the world tourism map. It is a dream destination for international tourists who just want to laze around for rejuvenation and relaxation. Lakshadweep Beaches : The palm covered islands of Lakshadweep adding up to only 32 sq km, is scattered around 4200 sq km of lagoon waters. The lovely white coral beaches with turquoise waters are unmatched in the world. Experience gentle breeze, swaying coconut trees with soothing sunshine on the soft sand an incredible feeling to relax your body and soul. Marine Drive - Mumbai : Marine Drive, with its clean sweep along the bay from Nariman Point to Malabar Hill is a major traffic link. The wide pedestrian area next to the sea-wall, and the breath-taking view over the bay, makes this one of Bombay's most well-known public spaces. Puri Beach - Bay of Bengal : For centuries now, the beach at Puri has been the venue of countless pilgrims taking the traditional purification dip for Puri is the abode of Lord Jagannath and it is considered one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage destination. However, for decades now, both Indian and foreign beach lovers have made it their special haunt.
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
plains and the white capped views of the mountainous ranges. Darjeeling : The toy train coming from Siliguri is some thing which is liked by the elders and the children equally. The real fun in coming to Darjeeling is on the toy train. It takes six to seven hours to cover a distance of 82 kms and the slow speed gives you enough time to watch and appreciate the beauty which nature has provided it. This train passes through the Forests, waterfalls, over deep valleys and through mountains and tunnels. Gulmarg : A huge cup shaped meadow, lush and green with slopes where the silence is broken only by the tinkle of cowbells, Gulmarg looks like a fantasy set in a film and not surprisingly have been the venue of several films. The valley of Gulmarg, a large meadow about 3-sq-kms in area, stands at 2,730 metres, 56-km south west of Srinagar. The name means 'Meadow Of Flowers' and in the spring it's just that, a rolling meadow dotted with countless colourful Bluebells, Daisies, Forget Me Not's and Buttercups. Kodaikanal : It is located amidst the folds of the verdant Pali hills is one of the most popular serene hill stations in India, which mesmerises any visitor. With her wooded slopes, mighty rocks, enhancing waterfalls and a beautiful lake, Kodaikanal is a charming hill station. Kodai is situated at an altitude of about 2,133-m high and covers an area of 21.45-sq-km. The hill town is renowned for its educational institutions of international repute. The pride of Kodaikanal is the 'Kurinji-flower', which blossoms once in 12 years. Ladakh : Bounded by two of the world's mightiest mountain ranges, the Great Himalayas and the Karakoram, it lies athwart two other, the Ladakh range and the Zanskar range.Its basic contours, uplifted by these unimaginable tectonic movements, have been modified over the millennia by the opposite process of erosion, sculpted into the form one sees today by wind and water. Manali : It located at an altitude of 2050 m,is situated along the banks of the Beas,close to the Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley. The river with the wild flowers,hamlets and fruit-laden orchards present the gifts of the sight and sound. Situated about 50-km from Manali town,at an altitude of 4,111m on the highway to Keylong,is the Rohtang Pass. There is a beautiful Dasohar Lake left of the Pass.
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
Nainital : A small town in the hills of Kumaon, Nainital is a lovely hill station surrounded by mountains on three sides. Once this area had many lakes and it was called the City of 60 lakes or 'Chakta'. Most of the lakes in the region have disappeared and whatever remains is just a glimpse of what they might have been in the past. Today the life of Nainital revolves around the lake of Naini. Ooty : Udhagamandalam (Ooty), the capital of Nilgiri district, is popularly known as the "Queen of hill stations' among the tourist circuits. It is situated at a distance of 105 km away from Coimbatore. The height of the hills in the Nilgiri range varies between 2280 and 2290 metres, the highest peak being Doddabetta at a height of 2623 metres. The establishment of numerous tea estates made Ooty famous. Lofty mountains, dense forest, sprawling grasslands and miles and miles of tea gardens greet the passengers on most routes. Shimla : Perched at an altitude of 2159 m above sea level, Shimla is located towards the southern parts of the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is the state capitaland is at a distance of 343 km from Delhi, 260 km from Manali, and 119 km from Chandigarh. Nature has blessed this capital city with innumerable gifts and man has used them to make Shimla one of India?s best locales.The hub of Shimla is the Mall, which runs along the Ridge and is crowded with tourists. It is the city's most famous shopping center, with shops selling all items, from clothes to junk food.
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
Diwali : This is one of the major festivals in the Hindu calendar. It occurs in October/November, and is spread over four days. Dhanteras (Dhanatrayodashi) is the first day or rather the eve of the day on which the festival begins. Narkachaturdashi which is also known as Kalichoudas or Bali Pratipada is the second day. Laxmi Pujan and New year (Padava) normally occur (depending on the Hindu calendar) simultaneously on the third day and Bhaiya-duj is the last day. Dussehra : The word Dussehra comes from the word 'Dus' meaning 'Ten' and 'Hara', meaning 'annihilated'. So Dussehra is the day in which the 10 facets of Evil were destroyed. On Dussehra Sri Ram killed the great demon Ravana, who had abducted Sri Ram's wife Sita to his kingdom of Lanka. Sri Ram was a great believer in the powers of Goddesss Durga, and He prayed to Her for nine days before He Himself entered the battlefield on the 10th day . Elephant Festival : It is an inimitable event held annually in Jaipur. Groomed flawlessly, rows of elephants do a catwalk before an enthralled audience liked best fashion models to make this festival an amazing one. The elephants move with poise in pageant, run races, play the regal game of polo, and finally participate in the spring festival of Holi. It is festival time with elephants typically celebrated one day before the Holi, Indian festival of colours. Ganesh Chaturthi : During the Ganeshchaturthi festival, clay idols of Ganesha are specially prepared and most families in Maharashtra install an idol for periods varying from two days to eleven days. During the period when the idol of Ganesha is installed in a home, every morning and evening prayers (Aarti) are performed and hymns are sung. The singing of hymns is a popular event during this festival, especially for children. The hymns are sung to the clanging of small gongs (called jhanja), the sounds of which reverberate throughout the day. Holi : The festival of Holi, a spring harvesting festival is celebrated over two days after the full moon in early March every year. On the evening of the first day bonfires are lit in public places and the next day people celebrate with festive vibrancies and wild abandon as they throw coloured powder and water at each other. The second day is called Dhuleti or Rangapanchami (Ranga-colour, Panchami=fifth day), from the time when the festival was celebrated over five days. Harvested grains and coconut were offered as oblation to the fire in rejoicing at the fertility of the land.
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
Navratras/ Durga Puja : These are observed twice a year, once in Chaitra, preceding Rama Navami, and then in Ashvin (September - October) preceding Dussehra. The nine-day Navratra commences with the new moon of Ashvin and terminates with Mahanavami, on the ninth lunar day of the bright half of the month. During these nine days, devotees keep strict fast and Durga is worshipped. The style of observing Navratra in different parts of the country may be different, but its sole aim is to propitiate Mother Durga and to seek her blessings. Pushkar Fair : From a mere 14,000 to a massive 200,000! This is how the population of Pushkar swells during the Pushkar Fair. One of the most important and colourful fairs of Rajasthan, which starts on Kartik Shukla Ekadashi and continues till Kartik Purnima. Dance, music and vibrant shops come up during this fair. Colourfully attired village people elevate the fun and frolic of this occasion. The show goes on for a whole week as travellers continue to join in the fun, which includes a number of cultural competitions Thrissur Pooram : It considered to be the mother of all poorams, is a cultural highlight par excellence, celebrated in the Malayalam month Medam (April/May). The two century old festival of spectacular procession of caparisoned elephants and enthralling percussion performances in a never ending succession is an 36 hours marathon event of incredible beauty, a feast for the eye and the ear, unfolding between 6 am to 12 noon the other day.
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
curative power of nature ensconced in the lavish greenery and vast space of the picturesque Northwest County. With its convenient access to Bangalore City and Airport, the resort provides the perfect setting for conferences, seminars and indulgent spa retreats. The resort has thoughtfully provided a wealth of recreational facilities catering to a cross-section of tastes through all ages. Devi Garh Resort - Rajasthan : Devi Garh, away from the stress of the city, is a perfect place to optimize your well-being. We soothe your body, stimulate your mind and strengthen your spirit. Combined with the gymnasium, steam, sauna, jacuzzi, and beauty parlour, we offer something more profound: complete Ayurvedic therapies. Ayurveda is a traditional Indian form of Holistic medicine, which has been handed down over the centuries by ancient physicians. This gentle science, using natural remedies has evolved a system of complete healthcare. Our therapists use medicated oils and herbal pastes for different therapies- ranging from relaxing massages to complex treatments. Golden Palm Spa & Resort - Karnatka : Put aside your worries, lay low your tensions and simply de-stress; in seclusion of Private Spa Suites, surrender to our Spa Therapies, as they engulf you in an atmosphere of peace, tranquility and stillness. Enjoy the opulence of a steam bath, drench shower, Swiss shower, bathroom and massage facilities, and private dressing-rooms complete with a selection of exclusive toiletries. Soothe every tired & fatigued muscle here, with our Exclusive Wellness Package & Holistic Approach that blends ancient eastern knowledge with the best of modern technology, where you transcend to a whole new level of peace and tranquility. Kumarakom Lake Resort - Kerala : The Kumarakom Lake Resort, nestling on the banks of Vembanad in more than 25 acres of lush greenery. Where the mystique of the past and the richness of the timeless heritage lives on to this day. In the over 50 Villas, carefully reassembled using Tachu Shastra, the ancient rules and rites of carpentry. Dotted with cozy nooks, outdoor eatery, meditation center, swimming pool, health club, Ayurmana the Ayurveda Centre. A far cry indeed from the din of city life and the sprawl of the urban jungle is intended to clean the skin and to burn localized fat accumulations. This massage adds glaze to the skin and improves complexion.
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
Oberoi Raj Vilas - Rajasthan : The Oberoi Rajvilas Spa by Banyan Tree is located in a restored Rajasthani mansion, which now houses four new spa suites and six treatment rooms along with a beauty salon. The relaxation area overlooks the beautiful landscaped gardens and offers the ultimate pampering experience to world-weary guests. The Spa overlooks over the Resort's main swimming pool, which is heated in winter. It is a major feature of the hotel, framed by two pink sandstone torches, and two exquisite domed Chattris which reflect themselves in the Jaipur blue-tiled waters, providing one with a very elegant way of keeping fit. Oberoi Amarvilas - Agra : Many Enjoy the luxury of your own private view of the greatest monument to love. The Oberoi Amarvilas is located 600 meters from the Taj Mahal, all our rooms, suites, lobby, bar and lounge offer breathtaking views of the monument. Built in a style inspired by Moorish and Mughal architecture, the resort is a splendid display of terraced lawns, fountains, reflection pools and pavilions with rich interiors that take you back to an era of Emperors and Princes. An interlude at The Oberoi Amarvilas is truly unforgettable. Oberoi Vanya Vilas - Rajasthan : Many guests come to Vanyavil? simply to relax. The Oberoi Spa and Fitness Tent are the ideal places to do just that. The Spa is set over the lake, past turquoise and lapis blue tiled pools, in a fountained courtyard. Here you will find steam rooms, showers and private therapy suites. Guests can choose from a long menu of spa treatments, massages, facials, manicure and pedicure. For example, the stimulating Indian Spice Wrap and a delicious Orange Wrap. All the massage and aromatherapy treatments are aimed at relieving stress and promoting a deep sense of relaxation and wellbeing. P Oberoi Wild Flower Hal - Himachal Pradesh : A world class Spa opened recently at Wildflower Hall, bringing the resort right into the top league of luxury destinations. The Oberoi Spa by Banyan Tree offers holistic treatments based on Ayurvedic, Asian and Western therapies to relax, rejuvenate and inspire. With tranquil views through lush green cedar and pine forests, the Spa Pavilions offer stressed out guests a peaceful haven in which to revitalise themselves both inside and out. Therapies offered by trained therapists include an Aromatic Massage, Balinese Massage, Head and Shoulder Massage, Hawaiian Massage and Thai Massage.
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
Taj Exotica - Goa : Stylish, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa spreads idyllically along a pristine beach and the serene lagoon. The award-winning resort, now re-launched, seamlessly extends the magic of the islands blessed natural beauty in its design even as it offers the finest contemporary luxuries and services. Jiva Grande Spa, an authentic Indian spa, offers a range of signature wellness experiences. A choice of gourmet cuisine, water sports, and recreation make for a complete and exclusive destination. Taj Malabar Cochin - Kerala : Hotel Taj Malabar combines old-world elegance with modern day convenience. In its heritage wing, built in 1935, graceful Victorian interiors aptly reflect the inherent beauty of Cochin. Its tower wing houses newly renovated guestroom suites, each a delicate mix of the classic with the contemporary. The Jiva Spa is Green Leaf certified by the Tourism Director of Kerala, which is the highest grade of certification for Ayurveda in the tourism industry.
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
lofty Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand are located the sacred Hindu shrines of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. They together form the Char Dham or the Four Holy Shrines. The region is referred as the land of the gods in the ancient Puranas. Scores of pilgrims visit the shrines by trekking arduously along the mountain paths, all for a communion with the divine.Over the centuries, these sites have been described in sacred scriptures as the very places where devotees could earn the merits of all the pilgrimages put together. Golden Temple - Amritsar : The globally renown Golden Temple, Harmandir Sahib, which enshrines the Holy Book of the Sikhs, the Guru Granth Sahib, is located in Amritsar. Amritsar, literally 'a pool of nectar', was founded by the fourth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Ram Das, who had initially constructed a pool here. According to popular belief, Rama and Sita had spent a brief period of their 14 year exile here. The construction of the temple was completed by Guru Arjun Dev, the son and successor of Guru Ramdas, in late sixteenth century. It was rebuilt by the Sikh ruler, Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1803. Haridwar - Uttaranchal : It is situated on the right side of the bank of the holy Ganga, and is the point where the river spreads over the northern plains. Associated with both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, Haridwar is among the seven sacred cities of India. It is also one of the four venues for the Kumbh Mela, held in its magnitude every twelve years. Essentially a religious centre which holds promise of salvation for devotees, Haridwar is also a centre of herbal medicine, and traditional studies at Gurukul Kangri. There are many places of scenic beauty on the outskirts of the town. Mahabodhi Temple - Bodhgaya : Since ancient past India has had an unbroken tradition of being the fountainhead of spiritual knowledge in the world. There are four principal Buddhist pilgrimage sites where most of the buddhist temples and shrines are located. The most important of these are located primarily in the Ganges Valley of India. The major buddhist pilgrimage sites are Bodhgaya, Kaushambhi, Kushinagar, Lumbini and Nalanda. Rishikesh - Uttaranchal : Also known as the 'place of sages' is Haridwar, at the confluence of the Chandrabhaga and Ganga. It is believed that God by the name of 'Hrishikesh' had appeared as an answer to the hard penances by Rabhiya Rishi and henceforth the place derived its name. 1160 feet above sea level, Rishikesh is 25
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
Rameshwaram - Tamil Nadu : The sacred island town of Rameshwaram at the extreme south-eastern limit of the Indian Peninsula. Rameswaram is the Varanasi of the south and a major pilgrimage centre for both Shaivaites and Vaishnavaites as it was here that Rama offered thanks to Shiva. At the town's core is the Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the most important temples in southern India. . Tirupati Balaji Temple - Andhra Pradesh : Said to be the world's richest temple, the Tirumati Tirumala Balaji Temple is situated on the Tirumala hill on the outskirts of Tirupati in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. Famous all over the world as a significant pilgrimage place, this ancient temple of Sri Venkateswara, the Lord of Seven Hills, is so called as Tirumala hill is a cluster of seven hills known as Seshachalam or Venkatachalam at an altitude of 2,800 ft above the sea level. The grand history of the temple spans over several centuries and it is the backbone of the pilgrimage and tourism industry of Andhra Pradesh. Vaishno Devi Temple - Jammu & Kashmir : The Vaishno Devi temple, which is also recognized as one of the Shakti Peeth of goddess. Durga is situated at a distance of 61 Kms from Jammu, nestled in the mighty Trikuta mountains at a height of 5,200 feet above the sea level. The devotees traverse part of the distance i.e. 13 Km. on foot from the base town of Katra, which is at a height of 1700 ft. from the sea level. Out of the millions of devotees who throng the place, a large number of yatri are repeaters who visit this place every year.
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
very colourful and hospitable. Itineraries of 2 to 7 days can be arranged traversing approx. 40-50 kms a day on camel. These itineraries are planned in the region of Bikaner, Khimsar, Osian and Jaisalmer. Camping : Family camping trips can be undertaken on the hilly regions of Garhwal and Kumaon in Uttaranchal and Himachal Pradesh. At the cool sand of Rajasthan or on the backwaters of Kerala. Samode Bagh, Jaipur Pushkar, Rajasthan Mussoorie, Uttaranchal Chilla, Uttaranchal Kaudiyala, Uttaranchal also make an excellent family camping sites. Some of the preferred family camping destinations in India includeRishikesh, Jim Corbett National Park, and Kaudiyala in Uttaranchal. Rajasthan also facilitates family camping sites, with established camps in set locations that would be fit for royalty. Jungle Safari : An exclusive elephant safari in the periphery areas of Corbett Tiger Reserve is ultimate. This elephant safari takes you through the mysterious thick forests, deep Valleys and the rugged trails of Corbett NP national park that offer a lingering thrill to the adventure seeker. You can travel to Ranthambhore wildlife reserve, for a jungle safari in the most preferred wildlife destination of Rajasthan . Mountain Biking : The Himalayas provide a plethora of choices that you can select from, but the foremost destination to start off any biking trip is Ladakh, the cold desert of India. One can make a beginning in an area, which does not initially require much exertion. The Terai forests along the foothills of Nainital give one an introduction to the pleasures of cycling and yet do not unduly tax your physical capabilities. One can start from Thakurdwara and cycle on to Ramnagar on the outskirts of Corbett Park. It offers some extremely attractive areas for the lover of mountain cycling. Paragliding : Billing in Himachal is a renowned Paragliding site and to check out the panoramic views of the Dhauladhar ranges. Solang makes a good beginner site in Paragliding. Bijli Mahadev is an excellent site for hill launching and has ideal conditions for thermal soaring. This ridge site can be approached fom Kullu and landing can be made at the Bhuntar airport. Another popular site in Bandla ridge, near Bilaspur at a height of 2, 600ft. Some other paragliding sites are located in the Trans-Himalayan region of Himachal, that is Lahaul & Spiti, Arhaul-Anu near Rohru and Garhalla Talab in Chopal in Shimal district.
Top 10 x 10
www.indiarajasthan.net
India
I N D I A R a j a s t h a n
River Rafting : The most popular rafting sites include Ladakh in Jammu & Kashmir, the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttaranchal, the Beas River of Himachal Pradesh and Teesta River in Sikkim. The rafting trip can be started off from the options available on the Indus River and its major tributaries. The best stretch for professionally guided runs in white water is on the Indus between Spituk and Saspol. Beyond Saspol, the river becomes difficult and running it requires technically skilled participants and careful organization. Skiing : The hills of Uttaranchal are packed with adventure, excitement and thrills.Uttaranchal with unexplored valleys, sky kissing peaks, cascading rivers, snow covered mountains, abundant of flora & fauna and vast regions of lush greenness is a delightful place for all types of tourists. The long extended slopes of Garhwal and Kumaon covered with seasonal snow becomes an ideal place for skiing in the winter months.Who can forget the ultimate destinations such as Kufri, Narkanda, Manali in Himachal. The Manali Region in Himachal Pradesh also offers scope for winters as well as summer skiing. Scuba Diving : Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands are the perfect destinations. In Andamans, one can enjoy the under-water marine life and view the rarest varieties of corals by snorkeling in the Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park, Carbyn's Cove Tourism Complex, Havelock and other islands on all days from dawn to dusk depending on the weather. Lakshadweep is fast turning in to a water sports capital of India and particularly of the underwater sea sports. With its extensive coastline, coral islands, and magnificent diversity of marine life, Lakshadweep can be termed as the most engaging snorkeling destinations in the country. Trekking : The Garhwal and Kumaon regions of Uttaranchal are the most popular destinations for trekking, though Chamba and Manali in Himachal Pradesh, and Ladakh and Zanskar in Jammu and Kashmir, other trekking centres in India are Lahaul-Spiti, Kullu and Kangra valleys in Himachal Pradesh and in northern Uttar Pradesh, North of Rishikesh. Darjeeling in West Bengal, Yuksam in Sikkim, and Leh in Ladakh. The biggest challenge for the climbers are in the Garhwal Himalayas, the Zanskar range in Jammu & Kashmir, Kulu & Lahaul in Himachal Pradesh have interesting trekking routes as well.