Tourist places in India

World Heritage Centres by UNESCO (28 in India ) : TAJ MAHAL, Agra fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Humayun's tomb, Qutb minar, Chhatrapati Shivaji terminus/ Victoria terminus, Elephanta caves, Ellora caves, Ajanta caves, Mahabodhi temple at Bodh Gaya, toy train route to Darjeeling, Se cathedral & Bom Jesus cathedral of Goa, Pattadakal, Hampi, Brihadeshwara temple - Tanjavur , Brihadisvara temple (Gangaikonda cholapuram, Tanjavur), Airvastesvara temple (Parasuram, Tanjavur), Mahabalipuram, Nilgiri mountain railway (Ooty), Konark Sun temple, Khajuraho, Keoladeo Khana national park (Bharatpur), Kaziranga national park (Assam), Manas national park (Assam), Sundarbans national park (West Bengal), Nanda Devi and Valley of flowers national park (Uttaranchal), Rock shelters of Bhimbetka (Bhopal), Sanchi Stupa, Champaner - Pavagadh archaeological park (Vadodara), Lumbini(Nepal).

India is one of the few countries having this much number of world heritage centres by UNESCO.

Travel to the scenic India, visit New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkota, Chennai, Agra, Jaipur, Mussoorie, Shimla, Kashmir, Khajuraho, Kerala, Mysore, Ranakpur, Mount Abu etc.

Visit the following important tourist circuits :

Amritsar-Waga-Srinagar-Gulmarg-Leh
Dehradun-Mussorie-Gangotri-Yamnotri-Kedarnath-Badrinath
Delhi-Agra-Jaipur-Jodhpur-Jaisalmer
Khajuraho-Varanasi-Gaya-Kathmandu
Shimla-Kullu-Manali-Dharmasala
Mumbai-Ellora-Ajanta-Goa-Jog falls
Bhavnagar-Palitana-Mount Abu-Udaipur
Belgaum-Hampi-Badami-Pattadakal-Aihole-Bijapur
Hyderabad-Warangal-Nagarjunakonda
Bhubaneshwar-Puri-Konark-Chilka
Kolkotta-Darjiling-Kalimpang-Gangtok-Guwahati-Kaziranga
Chennai-Mamallapuram-Kanchipuram-Tiruchirapalli-Tanjavur-Velamkanni
Bangalore-Mysore-Ooty
Madurai-Kodaikanal-Thekkadi-Alapuzha-Kochi

India is the 4 th most favourite destination of foreign travellers. Discover and enjoy the fascinating diversity of the people of India, their culture, customs, traditions, faiths, fairs, festivals, pilgrimage centres, cities etc. Only few countries in the world can offer such a vast variety of exhilarating experiences as does India. Its spectacular beauty, grandeur, splendour and cutural unity in diversity are a joy for ever. Discover the beautiful India in its varoius charms, moods, colours and fantasies.

Jewish Synagouge, Kochi : Built in 1568 is the earliest surviving synagouge in India. It has great scrolls of the Old Testament.

Jewish Synagouge photos

Thanks for the nice photo.
Mark

Ajmer Sharief

About 135 km south west of Jaipur is Ajmer in Rajastan, the most sacred of all Muslim places of pilgrimage in India. The revered Sufi saint, Khwaja Muin ud din Chisti, who came to Ajmer from Persia in 1192, and died in 1236, was buried here. His tomb, the dargah, is visited by thousands of devout Muslims every year. The later Mughal kings erected the 0shrine.

The entrance to the complex is from the Dargah Bazar, which leads to the first courtyard. This courtyard has a mosque built by Akbar and two cauldrons known as degs (huge cooking pots) in which food donations are made. These doantions later distributed among the poor. The saint's tomb is in the centre of the second court. It is enshrined in a domed marble chamber and has doors and rails of silver. The tomb attracts hundreds of thousands of pilgrims every year on the saint's death anniversay, which falls in the seventh month of lunar calendar. Ajmer takes a festive air during the Urs festival. Along the winding streets, merchants who came from as far as Lucknow and Delhi set up stalls. The shrine was visited every year by Akbar and later by Shah Jahan to seek solace and blessings of the saint. It was here that Sir Thomas Roe, the ambassador of king James I of England met Jehangir. Hindus in a large number also visit the shrine. One has to cover one's head to enter the Dargah.

Rajastan photos

Thanks for the nice photo.
:shock:

Vijayanagar fort, Hampi :This fort complex is on the banks of the river Tunabhadra in Karnataka reminds one of the might and strength of the empire that existed during the 14 th century. Founded in 1336 by the brothers Harihara and Bukka, their capital's magnificence dazzled visitors from China, Persia, Africa and Protugal. These travellers spoke of the large ramparts surrounding the 'beautifully laid out' city, its bazaars, its palaces and temples. They all waxed eloquent in describing its greatness and opulence, believed to be the richest capital city in all India, perhaps in the entire Orient, on par with Rome in size, art, architecture, trade and commerce. The city is believed to have covered an area of 33 sq km. with a staggering population of half a million. The city also boasted of a refined culture where poets and musicians flourished. The famous Sangama ruler Krishnadeva Raya was a patron of art and culture. It was during his rule that many palaces, pavilions and temples were added to the fort complex. The Vshnu temple and the Saptaswara pedestal speak volumes of the artisans' skills and the aesthetic sense of the ruler. The complex has now been included in the World Heritage centre's list by UNESCO.

World heritage centre, archaeological museum, Vijayanagara ruins - Vithala temple with monolithic chariot, Vrupaksha temple, Hazara Ramaswami temple, fort, Elephant stable and Lotus Mahal.Hampi can be reached from Guntakal railway station via Bellary.

Hampi photo gallery

Nice photos and amazing india... i will try to update my blos to give indian travel information.. but congratulations to all ..nice photos :)

Bahai Lotus temple, New Delhi : Lotus temple is a very recent architectural marvel (1980 to 1986) of the Bahai faith. The temple is shaped like a lotus with 27 petals which are made of concrete and clad in Italian white marble tiles. The nine sided lotus shaped temple is located at Kalkaji near Delhi. The temple is designed amidst pools and gardens to make people conscious about the beauty of life. Bahai is an independant world religion which welcomes people of any faith. The view of the temple is very spectacular just before dusk when it is floodlit. It is one of the major tourist attractions in Delhi.

New Delhi photo gallery

Matheran (768 m) - Matheran is 100 km from Mumbai and is an easy escape for Mumbaikars, which offers a well deserved holiday. Neral junction (39 m ASL) is on the Mumbai-Pune rail route. Matheran is 6 hour journey by toy train (now not operational due to landslides in 2005 - 06) and 30 minute by taxi car ( 13 km, Rs 50 on sharing).

Then 21 km long Neral - Matheran narrow gauge railway was constructed from 1901 - 1907 by Mr Abdul Hussein Admjee Peebhoy at a cost of Rs 16, 00, 000. The centenary celebrations of the Matheran railway is due on 2007. Traveling to Matheran by toy train, one of the last mini trains in the world, from Neral is an experience in itself. The train stops at different railway stations on its way to top and it passes through a tunnel - 'one kiss tunnel'.

Matheran is a popular hill station with large number of trekking routes. From One tree point one can trek down to Bhorgav via Shivaji's ladder and then to Karjat road in 3 hour (the trail is said to be tried by King Shivaji himself) . Another trekking route is from Porcupine point (Sunset point) to Dodhani village (1 hour) and then to Panvel by bus.

The Heart point offers beautiful view of Mumbai at night. The Porcupine point, Louise point, Echo point, Monkey point, Chouk point, Chaelotte lake, caves, Paymaster park are the places of interest in Mahteran. The main bazaar (market) offers a variety of items such as cane and leather articles, hats, chappals, dried flowers, chikki, honey etc. As a hill station, food and accomodation is costly. The main way to see the points is by walk or on hired horse (Rs 300 with 7 points). Beware of touts. Rs 25 per person is the entry fee levied by Municipality. Dasturi nakka is where the taxi stops and is 2 km from the market. If one travels by taxi, 2 km has to be covered on foot or by horse at Rs 100.

Just after the monsoon the area become scenic with flowers and waterfalls and is the right time for a visit. Maps of Matheran can be purchased from shops near the market at Rs 30. This car free 'eco friendly' (cycle free) hill station offers salubrious climate and an unpolluted atmosphere. Matheran has few heritage bunglows and worth a visit.

Matheran Photo Gallery

Bandipur Sanctuary : The sanctuary is 80 km south of Mysore in Karnataka and is adjascent to Mudumalai sanctury in Tamil Nadu. The deep forest covering the hills is an ideal place for different kinds of flora and fauna to exist. It was a private preserve of the Mysore royal family, now dedicated to 'Project Tiger'. The sanctury offers an excellent opportunity to watch elephants, deer, bisons, black panthers, antelopes, tigers and leopards. Many of these animals can be seen from close proximity from 'machans' or raised platforms. A visit to Bandipur will satisfy a nature lover's quest for beauty. The sanctury can be visited on ellephant back, by jeep or open trucks. The best season to visit is January to June and September to October. There is a Forest rest house where Ooty buses stops.

Karnataka photo gallery

Aga Khan's palace, Pune : Palace is located near the Mula river at Yerwada in 6.5 hectares of garden. Mahatma Gandhi delivered his momentous Quit India resolution in Bombay in 1942, the British interned him and other leaders of India's independence movement here for nearly two years. Both Kasturba Gandhi, the Mahatma's wife, and Mahodoebhai, his secretary for 35 years, died while imprisoned here. Their ashes are kept in memorial samadhis in the gardens.

Photos and paintings exhibitng moments in Gandhi's extraordinary career, but most moving are the simple details (such as a pair of sandals and a thermos) and a narrative on the personal tragedies met by Mahatma. Admission fee Rs 5 (Rs 100 for foreigner). Time : 0900 to 1745h daily.

Aga Khan's palace photos

Haji Ali tomb (reached by a long causeway, which can be crossed at low tide), gardens, Mahalaxmi temple and Nehru Planetarium & science museum are 3 km from Mahalaxmi railway station are nice places to visit.

Mahalaxmi Dhobi ghats : At Mahalaxmi Dhobi ghat (place where cloths are washed) in Mumbai, some 5000 men use rows of open air troughs to beat the dirt out of thousands of kilogram of soiled cloths brought from all over the city each day. The best view, and photo opportunity, is from the bridge across the railway tracks near Mahalaxmi railway station, which can be reached from Churchgate railway station.

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Haji Ali tomb & Mahalaxmi Dhobi ghat photos

Very useful informations tx

Mattanchery: 12 km from Kochi has Jewish Synagogue (Closed on Saturdays), Jewish cemetery, Jew town with lots of Antique shops, Dutch palace cum archaeological museum, Jeevamatha Church and Holy Cross church ('Koonankurusu').

Archaeological museum, Mattanchery

History : The rise of Kochi in the 15 th century was due to the combination of geographical and political factors. After the flood in the Periyar river in 1341 AD importance of Kodungallur port declined and Kochi became one of the prominent ports in Kerala. In about 1405 AD, the royal seat of Perumpadappu Mooppil was shifted from Mhaodayapuram to Kochi. The ruler of Kochi facilitated construction of factories for the trade activites of the Portuguese and in return sought military assitance against Zamorin of Kozhikode. The repeated attacks of the Zamorin were repulsed, as the
rulers of Kochi practically became the vassals of the Portuguese. Subsequently, the Dutch esablished their supremacy over the Portuguese and took over Mattanchery in 1662 AD. Later in 1752 AD, the rulers of Travancore overran Kochi. In 1776 AD, Mysore forces under the Commandership of Sirdarkhan invaded Malabar and reduced Kochi Raja as his tributary. The English took over control of Kochi in 1795 AD, and held it till Kochi state merged with the Union of India on July 1, 1949.

The Palace

Mattanchery palace is situated at about 12 km northeast of Kochi. The palace was built and presented by the Portuguese to the Raja of Kochi Vira Kerala Varma (1537 - 1565 AD) around 1555 AD. Subsequently, the Dutch renovated the palace hence it is popularly known as the Dutch palace. The Palace has both European and indigenous architectural features. It is a double storied quadrangular structure built in 'Nalukettu' style with a courtyard in the middle.Mattanchery palace museum was established in 1985, consist of six galleries viz Coronation hall, Ramayana hall or 'Palliyara' (Bed chamber), Dutch gallery, Kovanitalam (staircase room), Dining hall and Ladies chamber.

The Exihibits

The exihibits consists of portrait paintings, umbrellas, palanquins, costumes, coins, stamps, arms of Raja of Cochin, and some of the rare mural drawings (wall painting) of Dutch of the 17 th and 18 th centuries. Krishnaleela and Sivaleela are depicted at the underground chamber of the palace.

The royal umbrellas are made of silk with brass and lace decorations while another is of Palm leaf and was used by the King while going to the temple for worship.

Weapon display include sheathed swords, daggers and axes besides ceremonial spears decorated with feathers. Attendants of the Raja of Kochi used these weapons.

Entrance fee : Rs 2 for those above 15 years old. Closed on Fridays.Timing : From 10 am to 5 pm.

Mattanchery photos

Brindavan gardens : Brindavan gardens on the terraces of the Krishnaraja sagar dam across the river Cauvery in Mysore is a meticulously planned garden. It was built in 1932 during the rule of Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV, who was a great lover of gardens and parks. The enchanting gardens were designed by the then Dewan of the Maharaja, Sir Mirza Ismail. A myriad of fountains, cascading and springing into different shapes, amidst the surrounding greenery and flowers, is an invigorating sight for the tourist. The fountains and the gardens are tastefully illuminated on weekends and holidays, attracting hundreds of tourists.

In between the two wings of the gardens, north and south, there is a huge fountain, rising almost as tall as the dam level - 38 mtere. The other side of the garden has an enchanting musical fountain. Brindavan gardens is a must for a tourist visiting Mysore. The musical fountain is of special interest that presents a spectacular harmony of water, colours, light and music. Every evening the gardens comes alive in a burst of dazzling colours and illumination when twirling and dancing fountains lend an atmosphere of enchantment to this fairly land. 19 km from Mysore, it is also a popular picnic spot. There is the beautiful hotel Krishnasagar overlooking the gardens and the reservoir. The dam built on the river Cauvery is the largest in south India having an area of 130 sq km.

Karnataka photo gallery

Chail is 45 km from Shimla at 2000 m ASL. It is a hiker's paradise and was the summer capital of the Maharaja of Patiala. The area is spread over three hills and is thickly forested. The palace is located in one of the most beautiful and scenic places in Hiamchal. Three kilometre from the hotel is the world's highest cricket ground, surrounded by tall forest trees. The main attractions of Chail include long pine scented walks, scenic beauty, the magic of the Gaura river full of masheer fish for the angler, many trekking routes and several types of birds to watch.

Varanasi is located in Uttar Pradesh is one of the oldest cities in India. The city has found place in the Buddhist scriptures as well as in the epic Mahabharata. In Pali language, Varanasi is called Banarasi, hence the name Banaras. Varanasi is also called 'Kashi' or the city of spiritual light. Kashi is located on the banks of river Ganga. A refreshing dip in the Ganga with the splashing of water along the ghats in Varanasi takes one to ultimate bliss. It is a city of prayer and meditation.

Varanasi has excelled in the art of silk weaving. Benarasi silk sarees and brocades are cherished as collector's items across the world. As an eternal city with a rich and vibrant past, no architectural splendour but still the city has an inherent charm of it's own.

Charminar was built by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah in honour of his wife Bhagmati. The monument derives it's name from the four pillars surrounding the structure. It was in 1591 that Charminar, one of the most
remarkable monuments of Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh was constructed. The height of these minars is 56 metre. The structure was built to commemorate the end of the Plague that struck the state in the 16 th century.

Elegant balconies, stucco decorations and a small mosque adorn this structure. This is one of the oldest mosques in Hyderabad. From the minars, there is a panoramic view of the city. An underground path is believed to connect it with the Golconda fort. Markets and many other structures, which add it's grace, surround the Charminar. Charminar is open to public and flood lit in the evening.

Chilka lake : 1100 sq km in area located near Puri in Orissa. It is Asia's largest brackish water lake, which is home to thousands of colourful migratory birds throughout the year. Chilka, real paradise for bird watchers, offers a spectacular display of it's variety of birds. The surrounding hills and sandy stretches abound in cheetal, blackbuck, monkey, fishing cat, mongoose, porcupine and a dolphin population near the channel meeting the sea. Kalijai is a small island on the lake which houses a temple dedicated to Kalijai. A huge fair is hosted annually on Makar sankranti day in January.

It is an excellent tourist spot for fishing, boating and bird watching. A cruise in the lake can be an unforgettable experience. The charm of the lake can be best enjoyed from Rambha and Barkul. The Sonakuda Island is located in the Rambha Bay, about 6 km inlake from Rambha Jetty, south west of Badakuda (also known as Honeymoon island- The water around the island is very clear & dark blue in colour. Dr.Anandale & Kemp recorded the limbless lizard from this island. ) and Somolo Islands. Sonnakuda is a beautiful pear shaped island, about 1 km long, with ½ km maximum width. Rocky but green with shrubbery, it is the quiet abode of a few local fisher folk households.

The Nalaban Island within the Lake is notified as a Bird Sanctuary under Wildlife (Protection) Act and during winter, migratory birds from distant lands as far as Siberia congregate on this marshy island. Sometimes there are over 2 millions of them and it is indeed one of the prize destinations especially for the eco tourists. Some of the Star attractions in winter are Flamingos, Grey and Purple Herons, Egrets, Spoonbills, Storks and White Ibis which are all seen around Nalban and on the Birds' Island.

The Becon Island located at 3.0 kms away from Rambha is an architectural marvel with a conical pillar and a small room constructed on a submerged mass of rock in the Rambha bay near Ghantasila hill. Mr. Snodgrass built this and used to relax and do office work on this island. The ornamental pillar was constructed to put a light on the top.

Kolkata : Capital of West Bengal, earlier known as Calcutta is nicknamed as 'City of Joy'. The city has a leisurely lifestyle and the calm which has acculmulated over time. Kolkata was the capital of British India (till 1912) before it was shifted to Delhi. It is a city, which till a few years ago, was the most densely populated city in the world.

Kolkata has the country's first metro railway (underground - 16.5 km from Dumdum to Tollygunje) and also retains some of the buildings, which are more than 100 years old. Fort William was formed in 1696, which marked the birth of the city. Job Charnok founded the city. Kolkata is a home of many of India's great leaders. The clam of the Hooghly river combined with the rush of the people in the streets make Kolkota a city worth visiting. If India was the jewel in the British crown, Kolkata was its pearl.

Other tourist attractions in Kolkata are Howrah bridge is one of the busiest river hanging bridges in the world (457 m length and 8 m wide with 8 line traffic), Vidya sagar setu (1993, second hanging bridge across Hooglie), botanical gardens with 2000 year old giant Banyan tree (19 km), Alipore zoological gardens, National library, Indian museum, Birla industrial and technological museum, Shahid minar, Kalighat temple, Birla planetarium, St. Paul's cathedral, Raj Bhavan, Writer's building, trams, double deckker bus, Marble palace at Chor Bagan, Parasnath Jain temple, Nakhoda mosque, Belur (15 km, Ramakrishna mission headquarters), Dakshineshwar Kali temple (11 km, Built in 1855 by Rani Rashmonia - widow devotee), Tarakeshwar temple (80 km).

West Bengal photos

Dalhousie is situated at a height of 2039 m in the Dhaula Dhar range in Himachal Pradesh. The scenic beauty of the dense pine and Deodar forests, beautiful streams and quiet surroundings make Dalhousie an ideal hide out from the hectic city life. During winter it is an extremely beautiful place due to snow clad peaks. Named after Lord Dalhousie, it ranges from 1525 to 2378 m. The Raavi, Chenab and Beas rivers are very impressive on a clear day. Tibetan arts still found in many areas and is one of the tourist attractions. Other places of tourist interest around are Kalatop, Khajjiar, Chamba, Bharmour, Panjpulla and the Manimahesh lake.

Dalhousie is called ' Health farm of India' and is 555 km from New Delhi. Dalhousie is the gateway to Chamba, the 'vale of milk and honey'. The town commands a panoramic view of the plains below in the south and the majestic snow clad hills in the north.

Durga Puja (Sate festival of West Bengal): It is the holiday time for the Bengalis when the Goddess is put up in wayside pandals (makeshift pavilions). Durga is propitiated for the destruction of the buffalo headed demon Mahishashura, symbolising the victory of good over evil. Exquisitely decorated images of the goddess are set up in pandals. Night long musical soirees mark the celebrations. Famous musicians and singers compose special bhajans to be sung at these pandals. On Vijaya Dashmi, the last day, the images are taken out and immesed in the Bay of Bengal. It is held in Sept - Oct before Dussehra.

KULABA (Island fort at Alibag) fort : The fort is 1.5 km into the sea from Alibag beach and is in line with the Indian Institute of Geomagnetism's observatory. During the low tide (0600 to 0900 h & 1500 to 1900 h) the eastern side of the fort is clear to approach. British captured the fort in 1840 and a garrison was stationed here for a long time.

It is built on a rock, possibly a spur of the Sahyadris submerged below the seas. Its location is 18 0 37' north, latitude and 72 0 56' east, longitude. It is quite close to the coast at Alibag (properly Shribag) and at low tide one just walks across to the fort. It was very strong fort with high ramparts and seventeen bastions. The main gate faces east and one can see sculptures of tiger, peacock, elephant and animals but these are now becoming indistinct.

The buildings inside as well as some of the fortification have perished. A huge fresh water tank survives but is now in a filthy condition. So also the Ganesh temple, built in 1759 by Kanhoji Angre survives. It is surrounded by a wall and a large number of devotees come to pray at the temple. The idol is made out of white marble. This is worth seeing. Other idols are installed within the temple area. Two smaller temples also exist. Mention should be made of an isolated fortified structure a little distance north of the main fort. This was named Sarjekot and was consider the eighteenth
bastion of Kulaba. The fort has two cannon on wheels.

Entry fee Rs 5 (ASI). At 1500 h one can walk at knee deep water to the fort and at around 1600 h the water fully removed and the sea bed (sand) become visible. It is a nice experience to walk in the sea to the fort. The beach is safe to swim and bath. The Alibaug each is a unique beach in the Konkan area. The fort has four entrances, toilet, observation posts, ruined buildings and three fresh water tanks.

Alibag photos

Sanjay Gandhi National park : The 104 sq km protected area of forested hills on the city's northern fringe, has some interesting flora, birdlife and butterflies, a small poplation of leopards and a fenced area with captive tigers, including two white tigers. The best time to see birds is Oct to April and butterflies August to November. Enrance fee Rs 20. From the main gate one can travel to Kanheri caves by mini bus Rs 20 (one way).

The main attraction of the National park is lion and tiger safari, which depart from the tiger orientation centre, 1 km from the main gate. Ticket Rs 30 for a whirlwind 20 minute jaunt by mini bus through the two seperate zareas of the park housing the tiogers and lions. Safari bus leave roughly eveery 20 minutes from 0900 h to 1240 h and 1400h to 1720 h daily except Monday.

The national park has a mini toy train Rs 15. One can also climb by steps to a garden at a height to get an aerial view of the area. During the safari it will be difficult to spot a lion or a tiger. If you are lucky, you can get a glimse of 2 to 3 lions/tigers. Tigers are kept somewhat in cages. If you want to see lion/tiger in close proximity visit any of the zoo (Byculla Jijabhai Udyan).

Kanheri caves : Mini bus operates from the main gate of the National park, Rs 20 (one way). Entry fee to the caves is Rs 5. Timing : 0930 to 1730 h daily except Monday. The 109 Buddhist caves are 5 km away from the northern park entrance. They were used by Buddhist monks between the 2 nd and 9 th centuries as viharas (monasteries) and chaityas (temples).

Location : Borivali (By train from Churchgate station, Mumbai, Maharashtra in one hour). An auto at Rs 10 takes you to the park entrance. Visit the Kanheri caves first and on return getdown for the lion safari. A 5 minute walk take you to the mini train in the park.

Kanheri caves Photos

Naukuchiyatal lake, Nainital : The name means nine cornered lake. According to a legend, if one could identify the nine corners of the lake, he or she is destined to be a millionare. The lake is 26 km from Nainital in Uttaranchal, surrounded by thickly forested hills. The forest are home to 135 species of birds and 12 species of animals. For the nature lover, it is a paradise to be explored. The nearest railhead Kathgodam is 35 km away.

Nalanda, Bihar : The ancient Nalanda University attracted pupils from all over the world has housing for 10000 students and 2000 teachers. The university flourished from 5 th to 12 th century. King Harshavardhana gifted a 25 m high copper statue of Buddha and Kumargupta endowed a college of fine arts here. Some of the teachers were Nagarjuna, a Mahayana philosopher, Dinnaga, the founder of the school of logic, and Dharmapala, a Brahmin scholar.

The famous Chinese traveller and scholar Hieun Tsang stayed here and gave a detailed description of the situations prevailing at that time. Careful excavation of the site has revealed many stupas, monasteries, hostels, staircases, meditation halls, lecture halls and many other structures. Nalanda museum houses sculptures and other ancient archeological relics found here.

Orcha is famous for its palaces and temples built in the 16 - 17 th centuries by the Bundela rulers. It is 18 km from Jhansi in Uttar Pradesh. The Orcha fort complex is located in an island on the river Betwa, having a number of palaces to visit in it. The Jahangir Mahal, the Raj Mahal and the Rai Parveen Mahal are some of the beautiful palaces within the fort.

The Raja Ram temple and the Laxminarayan temple are the examples of the unique blend of temple and fort architecture. The Phool Bagh garden has fountains, pavilions and an ingenious water ventilation system. The Shahid smarak commemorating the martydom of Chandrashekhar Azad, a great freedom fighter, is an important place to visit. Other places to visit are Siddh Baba ka Sthan, Jugal Kishore, Janki mandir, Dinman Hardul's palace, Sunder Mahal and Hanuman mandir at Ochharedwara.

Shekhavati : The haveli paintings in Shekhavati area in Rajastan are of 19 to 20 th century period. In Shekhavati art, early English influence through the interaction with the British is evident. Their rooms have high backed Victorian chairs and chandeliers. Mughal influence can also be discerned in the costumes of many of the figures. On the facade Rajput horses and elephants jostle with elegant British ladies.

Rishikesh, Uttaranchal : Rishikesh is the gateway to the kingdom of gods. The most mesmeric sight in Rishikesh is river Ganga. The suspension bridges - Lakshman Jhoola and Ram jhoola are a picturesque sight across Ganga. Glass house resort at Shivpuri is a nice place to enjoy the beauty of the area. It is the base for the Char dham yatra (Hindu pilgrimage) - Yamnotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath and to high altitude treks - Kauri pass via Auli, Valley of flower national park and Hemkund.

Rock Memorial, Kanyakumari : On a rocky land 400 m from the shore line of Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu is built a large and beautiful memorial dedicated to Swami Vivekananda. He was a great philosopher who sat here in meditation.

The memorial built in 1970 houses a huge metal statue of Swami Vivekananda. Ferry services are plying between the memorial and the mainland. The merger of three seas - the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean - can be seen from these rocks. Kanyakumari, the land's end of penincular India, has a temple dedicated to Devi Kumari.

Shillong : Capital of Meghalaya, a beautiful city surrounded by pine forests at 1496 m. Shillong peak has a temple, neat Victorian bunglows, small churches and a golf course. The hill resort is called 'Scotland of the East'. The houses look like English homes with well laid chimneys of beautiful designs emitting smoke from fire places through the long wintry months. Some of the few most visited places here are the elephant falls, Shillong peak and Ward's lake.

Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh : Known as the city of Nawabs where the Urdu language acquired its phonetic perfection. It was in Nawab Wajid Ali Shah's court that the most advanced of all classical dance forms, the Kathak, took shape. The tabla and sitar were first heard on the streets of Lucknow.

Udaipur : The city has sprawling palaces, historic forts, shimmering lakes, well maintained gardens and ancient temples characterise the royal magnificence of the former rulers of Mewar. Udaipur - City of Dawn - was founded by Maharaja Udai Singh in 1559. It is a planned city with gates or pols and walled boundaies located at strategic parts of the city.

The Saheliyon Ki Bari, the garden for the maids of honour, the Gangaur ghat on Lake Pichola, are the sights one cannot forget. The City palace, is a marvel in granite and marble, is a towering attraction overlooking Pichola lake. Other places of interest include a museum, the rose garden, and the shopping centres of Chetak circle, Hathi Pol, city market and Bapu bazaar. The lake city of Udaipur is a real 'Oasis of Romance' in the desert of Rajasthan.

Vadodara : The city has several palaces built by Sayaji Rao. The most beautiful one is Laxmi Vilas palace and is the residence of the Royal family even today. Naulakhi Baoli step well is nearby. The palace has the smallest railway engine in the world. The Vadodara museum and art gallery, founded in 1894, is locatred in Sayaji Baug garden. Baroda university has imposing domes. The ruins of Pavgadh fort and Champaner (world heritage centre) are 47 km away.

IN KERALA LOTS OF PLACES TO VISIT LIKE MUNNAR,KUMARAKOM. ETC

Hyderabad is the capital of one of the most techno savvy state in India, Andhra Pradesh. This city is also called the city of pearls because of the major dealing of pearls that is done from this part of the state. There is also a love story that is related to the founding of the city of Hyderabad.

The story goes something like this that once there was a young prince, Muhammad Quli, who fell in love with a small time maiden from Chichlam village across the river Musi. Ibrahim Qutb Shah, father of Muhammad
Quli, built a bridge on the river so that the crown prince did not endanger his life. When Muhammad Quli ascended the throne, he built a grand structure, the Charminar, at the place where village once stood. The city was then called Bhagnagar to appease his beloved, Bhagmati. Later on it was called Hyderabad. Bhagnagar means city of good fortune.

Hyderabad was modeled after the Isfaan, that is in Iran and was built under the supervision of the prime minister of Muhammad Quli, Mir Momin. Mir Momin tried to create a replica of the Paradise to suit Muhammad Quli's status as the greatest of the Qutb Shahi rulers. The city was completed in 1592. The French traveller, Tavernier when visited India in 1652, compared Hyderabad to Orleans and in 1672, Abbe Carr was much impressed by the city as the center of all trade in the East. Hyderabad is now turning itself into a more commercially aggressive city in India. City of Hyderabad has been hosting some of the major trade shows and technology fairs in India for the past couple of years.

Hyderabad Location:

Hyderabad is situated at an altitude of 500m and almost in middle of India.
Rainfall in Hyderabad : 89 cm. (June to September).

Climate of Hyderabad:

Summer: 40 °C - 22 °C
Winter : 22 °C - 12 °C

Best Time to Visit:

October to March.

How To Reach Hyderabad:

By Air:

Hyderabad, which is well connected to all major cities of India. A few international flights also touch Hyderabad airport.

By Rail:

Secunderabad, which is well connected to all major cities of India.

By Road:

The city is easily accessible by road since it lies at the intersection of two major national highways: NH 7 (Nizamabad Road, Medchal Road) and NH 9.

Tourist Attractions:

The Galleries Of Charminar,Jami Masjid, Toli Masjid, Falakuma Palace, Rang Mahal .

Mecca masjid : largest masjid in south India, Char Minar (55 m, 1591 to 1612, built by Mohamad Quli Qutb Shah), mosques, palaces, Salar Jung museum, Archaeological museum, gardens, NTR gardens, Nehru zoological park with lion safari, Golconda fort (11 km, tombs of Qutb shahi kings are nearby) : A clap at Fateh darwaza can be heard far away summit palace, Birla mandir : marble temple near Secretariat, Hussain Sagar lake : 16 m tall, 350 tonne monolith statue of Lord Budha on Gibralter rock in the middle of the lake, Secunderabad city (8 km), Ramoji film city; Medak church (100 km) : Huge gothic church in white granite; Warangal : Fort, temple, Hanamkonda temple (7 km) : 1000 pillared hall with 1.8 m Nandi statue.

The 2345 m long Pamban Bridge across the Palk Strait, which was formally opened to traffic by the Honourable Prime Minister of India on October 2, 1988, The Ramanathswamy temple is a magnificent example of Dravidian art. The temple 264m east to west and 200m north to south, and with three Prakaras, two big Gopuras and two more unfinished ones, faces east, a few metres from the sea. It contains two Lingas under worship. There are innumerable other shrines and twenty-two "Tirthas" or sacred bathing places. Construction of the temple began in the 12th century AD and additions were made over the centuries by various rulers, so that today its gopuram is 53 m high. The temple has two Gopurams at the eastern and western entrances, 130 feet and 80 feet high, respectively. The sanctum sanctorum is built of polished granite stone. The
presiding deity at the temple is Lord Ramanathaswamy and his emblem, the Ramalinga, is said to have been installed and consecrated by Lord Rama and Sita.

Location : Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu
Famous for Rameshwaram temple having the longest corridor and MG Setu is the longest Sea bridge in India conneacting the mainland with Rameshwaram island.

Tourist places in Himachal Pradesh

DISTRICT CHAMBA

Manimahesh (4170 m): Accessible from Bharmaur, 35 km away. Scared to Lord Shiva and his divine consort Parvati, the lake of Manimahesh is 35 km from Bharmaur. Past Gaddi villages and wide meadows that give way to bare rock and snow fields, this tarn is a three day trek from Bharmaur - via Hadsar and Dhanchha. The deep blue waters of the lake, rest at the feet of the Manimahesh Kailash Peak - which is one of the mythological abodes of Lord Shiva.

Bharmaur (2195 m): Linked by road to Chamba is 65 km away. Surrounded by alpine pastures, this is the summer home of the nomadic Gaddis. At a distance of 69 km from Chamba town, Bharmaur, once known as Brahampur, was between the 6th and 10th centuries, the capital of princely state of Chamba. It is renowned for its cluster of temples - collectively known as the 'Chaurasi'. Though of varying architectural designs, these temples are noted for their fine workmanship. From Bharmaur, the Kugti and Chobia passes and trek routs they offer can be approached. Other interesting places at hand are the temples of Bani Mata and picturesque Khundel. There are Forest and PWD rest houses in Bharmaur.

Bhandal valley (1730 m): Linked to Salooni (22 km) in the Chamba valley by road. The beautiful Bhandal Valley with its wealth of wildlife is at the western extremity of Himachal Pradesh. Approachable from Chamba, it is the base for a trek routes that connect Chamba to the Kishtwar region of Jammu and Kashmir over the Dagni Dhar. The route begins along the right bank of the river Ravi, goes past Pukhri, down to the Siyul stream, then rises to Salooni on the Prithvi Jor ridge to finally arrive above the valley. From Bhandal via Langhera one reaches Kishtwar. The highest point on the trek is the Padri Gali at 3049 m. There are rest houses at Sundla, Bhandal and Langhera.

Pangi valley (2438 m): 137 km from Chamba. Locked between the greater Himalyan and Pir Panjal ranges, the wild and beautiful Pangi Valley is 137 km from Chamba. Its subdivision headquarters at Killar is located in the deep and narrow gorge of the river Chanderbhaga (Chenab). The foaming river, the high crags of the gorge and the difficult terrain are a challenge for intrepid trekkers. The Sach Pass (4428 m) opens the way to several trek routes. Thick forest the habitat of varied wild life surround the Pangi Valley and the numerous side valleys - Saichu, Hunam, Sural Nallah, that are also endowed with remarkable natural beauty. The temple of Mindhal Basan Devi in Pangi is an important shrine. Appropriately, the people of Pangi are as attractive as the tract they inhabit. There is a rest house in Pangi.

DISTRICT MANDI

JHANTIGRI (2130 m) : 12 km from Joginder Nagar.

BAROT (1830 m) : Just 40 km by road from Joginder Nagar and 12 km by haulage trolley.

TATTAPANI (656 m) : Tattapani - famous for its hot sulpher springs - is approachable from Mandi via Karsog. Tattapani hot springs (54 km from Shimla).

PRASHAR LAKE (2730 m) : Linked by road to Mandi. An interesting 14 km trek is possible along a steep track from Kataula, which is easily accessible from Mandi.