India-Tourist-Places.com

Author Archive

About The Place

Area : 69.63 sq km
Languages Spoken : Punjabi, Hindi, English
Religion : Hinduism (74.61%), Sikhism (19.78%), Others (5.61%)
Maximum Temperature : 42.40°C
Minimum Temperature : 3.40°C
STD Code : 0172

History Of Chandigarh

Planned by the famous French architect Le Corbusier, Chandigarh was conceived as a city of “Sun, Space and Verdure” to fulfill four basic functions of living, working, circulation, and care of body and spirit. The master plan is a checkered mesh of rectangles called sectors, which are intended to be self-sufficient neighborhood units, enclosed by fast-moving traffic roads. In fact, a salient feature of the city plan is its novel movement system, which has a hierarchy of streets for different types of traffic. A number of city parks have been planned for the care of the body and spirit. The sun-bathed piazzas of the city, its neat housing clusters and the broad tree-lined avenues are visible manifestations of the planning precepts. No wonder Chandigarh is often called the “City Beautiful” or the “Garden City”-both fond epithets given to it by its residents.

Perhaps a major part of the city’s modernity emanates from the fact that there is a very large body of youthful student population. The hub of its activities is the beautiful Panjab University campus with its impressive red sandstone buildings laid out amid gardens, water pools, and fountains. The idyllic campus surroundings inspire academic learning, scholarship and cultural enrichment. Besides the university, there are also many other premier institutions of medicine, engineering, architecture and science located in the city.

Places Of Arrtactions Near Chandigarh

A visit to Chandigarh is not complete without a visit to the temple of Goddess Chandi, which is located in Panchkula, 10 km away from Chandigarh. In fact, the name Chandigarh is derived from this temple. Nearby is the temple of Mansa Devi. Both the temples are built in the North Indian style of architecture. Moreover, there is the Panchkula Cactus and Succulent Botanical Garden, which houses over 2,500 varieties of cacti and other succulent plants from all parts of the world. This is the first and the only botanical garden where a systematic and comprehensive collection of Indian species of cacti is being.

Located on the banks of River Ghaggar, 15 km from the city, the Chattbir Zoo is an ideal getaway from Chandigarh. The zoo lies on the Chandigarh-Patiala Road. Besides these, Pinjore (now Yadavindra Gardens; 20 km), Morni Hills (45 km), Kasauli (77 km), Chail (107 km), and Shimla (110 km) are some of the interesting places to visit around Chandigarh.

Kerala has some of the pristine hill stations in India, with the entire Western Ghats dotted with evergreens, rolling grasslands, sholas and stretches of rejuvenating fragrance of tea and coffee plantations. The wilder side of Kerala has in store some of the best wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in the country with a variety of plant and animal life unique to Kerala.

Glistening brooks and cascades that interstice the hills finally roll down to the coastal plains of Kerala where they laze through verdant stretches of paddy fields, coconut trees and feeds some of the splendorous expanse of backwaters and lakes.

Let yourselves cast away amidst the serene environs of a backwater islet, treat your body and soul to ‘Ayurveda’ – the sacred knowledge of life. Take a backwater cruise on a country boat with palm fringed land on either side and experience the many faces of the backwater life of Kerala.

Crave for Sun & Sand! .. come and embrace the golden sands of its immaculate beaches, pep up your spirits under the tropical sun and feel the pulse of its coastal life. You can also enhance your gastronomy skills or give a break to your taste buds and savor some of the ethnic dishes of the land.

The cultural mosaic of Kerala is studded with landmark monuments, palaces, forts, memorials, and places of worship portraying the socio-cultural and historical evolution of the land with indelible marks left by travelers from far-flung lands. Be part of its many festivals and celebrations to understand its significance, emotions and traditional practices of Kerla.

How To Go To Ajanta Caves

By Air
The nearest airport of Aurangabad is approximately 108 km away.

By Rail
Apart from Aurangabad, one can also go to the Jalgaon railway station, approximately 58 km away.

By Road
Ajanta Caves are well linked to Mumbai by road. Bus services are easily available.

About The Place

Location : Aurangabad District, Maharashtra

Highlights : UNESCO World Heritage Site

Represent : Hinayana and the Mahayana sects of Buddhism

Best Season : The Tourist seasons of Ajanta and Ellora extends almost through out the year.

Timings : From 09 hours to 17:30 Hrs or at sunset whichever is earlier ( closed on Mondays and national holidays. )

Entry Fee : Indians Rs.10, Adults Foreigners US$ 10 free on Friday, A light pass of Rs.5 is necessary if you want the guide to turn on the lights. Video Camera Rs 25. Flash photography is strictly forbidden in this caves.

Information Of Ajanta Caves

Ajanta caves are located 99-km away from Aurangabad district in the state of Maharashtra. Ajanta caves were carved out from the 2nd century BC to 6th century AD, and are ranked high as a world heritage site.

They were hidden in the midst of a lonely glen with a streamlet flowing down below. They were scooped out into the heart of the rock so that the pious Buddhist monk could dwell and pray. During this time, images of Buddha interpreting his different life stories and several types of human and animal figures were carved out of rock in-situ.

All sections of people of the contemporary society from kings to slaves, women, men and children are seen in the Ajanta murals interwoven with flowers, plants, fruits, birds and beasts. There are also the figures of ‘Yakshas’, ‘Kinneras’ (half human and half bird) ‘Gandharvas’ (divine musicians), ‘Apsaras’ (heavenly dancers), which were of concern to the people of that time. The Ajanta caves are dedicated solely to Buddhism.

The 30 Chaityas and Viharas have paintings, which illustrate the life and incarnations of Buddha. The artist has lent his creativity in each work with an overwhelming sense of vitality. These paintings have survived time and till date the numerous paintings glowing on the walls make the atmosphere very vibrant and alive.

In Cave 1, Prince Buddha is depicted delicately holding the fragile blue lotus, his head bent sideways as if the weight of his ornate jewelled crown is too heavy for his head. His half-closed eyes give an air of meditation, almost of shyness.

Cave number 2, which is one of the better-preserved monasteries with a shrine, shows how sculpture, paintings and architectural elements were used together to enhance the atmosphere of piety and sanctity. The ceiling and wall paintings illustrate events associated with Buddha’s birth.

Language : Nepali, Sikkimese, Bhutia, Lepcha, Hindi, English

Best time to visit : October to March

STD Code : 03592

About The Place

Ensconced on a ridge flanking the Ranipool river, Gangtok at an altitude of 1870 m, is a destination that would lure anyone who has a taste for natural beauty and an inclination or interest in the Buddhist religion and culture. For it is a place that has beautiful monasteries, including the esteemed Rumtek – the head quarter of Kagyu order; vistas as breath taking as the awe-inspiring Khangchendzonga – the third highest mountain peak in the world. If you are flying to Bagdogra (nearest airport to Gangtok), opt for window seat on left for a glimpse of it.

But then, had it only been the monasteries and the natural beauty, Ladakh (another very popular Indian destination) would have easily stolen away a big chunk of tourists from Gangtok. So, there has to be something more to it. And that something is the glamour of this city and the easy accessibility. It’s a beautiful town with broad roads, flyovers, posh markets, fast food outlets, discotheques and all other modern amenities that one can ask for. Hotel ‘The Royal Plaza’ at Gangtok has India’s first land based live casino, and is the only place besides Goa to brag a casino in India. The tastefully lit and decorated and absolutely no traffic M.G Marg (street) is an ideal place to spend the evenings in the town.

Major Tourist Attractions In Gangtok

Himalayan Zoological Park : This Park exhibits a wide species of Himalayan fauna like the black beer, barking deer, snow leopard, civet cat, red pandas and the spotted deer.

Nathula : It is a mountain pass situated about 56 km from Gangtok at an altitude of about 14,200 ft and is covered with rich varieties of alpine flora and fauna. It is a calm place to visit and is open only for Indian Nationals.

Pemayangtse Monastery : It is one of the oldest monasteries in the state which was established by Lhatsun Chempo, the Lama who is said to have performed the consecration ceremony of the first Chogyal of Sikkim. This Monastery is located at the hill top and gives a wonderful view of the Himalayan ranges and the surrounding hills of the region.

Khecheopalri Lake : This Lake located at East Sikkim is considered to be one of the most sacred lakes in the city both for Hindus and Buddhists. This lake lies in the rich forest cover and is believed that the birds in the region never allow a single leaf to keep afloat on the water of the lake.

Menam Hill : This hill situated at an altitude of about 10300 ft gives a wonderful view of the scenic beauty of the Kanchenjunga Hills and its surrounding ranges. On a sunny day, one can even see the plains of Bengal spanning across Kalimpong and Darjeeling Hills in the South.

Ropeway : To capture the most stupendous scenes of the city, an easy way out here in Gangtok is to take a cable car ride that brings to your view Gangtok market, valley and assembly hall of state of Sikkim on its 15 to 20 minutes journey. There are 3 stop points on the journey. The lowest point is at Deorali market and the highest point is at Tashiling. There is a mid point stop at Nam-Nang. One can enter from any point and return to same point after touching other two points.

Location : Elephanta Island, near Mumbai

Acclaimed as : World Heritage Site

Attractions : Rock-cut Temples, exquisite architectural designs

How to Reach : One can easily reach Elephanta Caves by taking Motorboats from Apollo Bunder near the Gateway of India in Mumbai.

Elephanta caves are in the magnificent Elephanta Island, which is 11 km from Mumbai. It has beautiful carvings, sculptures, and a temple of the Hindu God, Lord Shiva. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been a commercial, military and religions centre for centuries having traces of early Buddhist culture.

The Elephanta caves date back to 9th – 12th centuries. With the Brahminical resurgence during the reign of Gupta dynasty in 3rd century AD, these great cave dedicated to Lord Shiva exploded into existence at Elephanta. According to legends and historians, great warrior prince of Chalukya dynasty Pulkesin ll raised the shrine to celebrate his victory. Some historians also suggest that the Kalchuri King Krishnaraja built these caves in 6th century AD.

It seems that the same craftsmen and sculptors who had worked on the Kailasa Temple and other adjoining Buddhist caves at Ellora were employed at Elephanta. It is believed that the caves were used as target practice after they constructed a fort and put a flag to ward off pirates.

It represents the three-headed Lord Shiva, and renders Him as the Creator, the Preserver, and the Destroyer of the universe. The incredible sense of creativity of the architects and sculptors is noticeable in the serried of sculpted panels, set like tableaux on the walls. Each panel depicts Lord Shiva’s unpredictable nature, and miraculous interplay of light and shade, adds to the overall effect. Another colossal idol stands for Panchamukha Shiva and here the Lord is represented as the savior and bestower of blessings. This image is estimated to have been stood at the same place for possibly a thousand years and is regarded as the masterwork of Indian art.

Location : 265 kms from Mumbai, Near Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra

Altitude : 1334 meters

Attractions : Table land, Parsi point, Sydney point

Best Time to Visit : October to May

How to Reach : One can take tourist buses; hire private taxis or board a train to reach Panchgani from Mumbai.

Best Time To Visit This Place

Panchgani is a pleasant hill resort that does not experience major temperature variations. Though the monsoons are rather heavy. The temperature ranges between sixteen and thirty-five degrees throughout the year. The months from September to May are the best time to visit Panchgani. Panchgani Tourism is at its peak during the winter months.

Major Attraction Of Panchgani

At a height of 60 meters, Table Land is a major tourist attraction with its few caves, including the popular Devil’s Kitchen and Pandvgadh Caves. Panchgani is renowned for its green environs that make it a perfect place for sanatoriums and boarding schools. Most of the educational institutes here are settled in the old British buildings and Parsi houses, which attract tourists with their gothic architecture. Thanks to the oxygen-rich air of Panchgani that cures breathing problems of people at sanatoriums.

On a small mound facing the Krishna Valley is Sydney Point, a vantage point that offers stunning vista of Pandavgad, Mandhardeo and the sparkling waters of Dhom Dam. From Parsi Point, one can get the impressive panoramic view of the profound Krishna Valley. The Kamalgad Fort nearby is another nice ancient structure to visit. You can also hire a bicycle to move around the place and brood over the splendor that the Almighty has bestowed. Often called the Mecca of Maharashtra, Panchgani would definitely enthrall you with its hamlets, farms, greens and ravines.

How To Get There

Air : 127km from Almora, Pantnagar is the nearest airport. At present flights are however not operational.

Rail : Kathgodam (90km) is the nearest railhead with connection to Delhi, Howrah & Lucknow.

Road : Buses connect Almora with Kathgodam, Nainital (66km), Ranikhet, Pithoragarh(122km) & Delhi (380km) directly. There is also direct connection to Nepal Border, Banbassa (7 hours). Buses depart at a regular interval, every half of an hour for Kathgodam (3 hours). It takes about 2 hours to travel to Nainital & 4 hours to Pithoragarh. Infact road transportation is the most convenient way to travel to Airnora.

About The Place

At an altitude of 1638 meters and located on the ridge at the southern edge of the Kumaon Hills of the Himalayan range, Almora is at a distance of 380 km from Delhi. In the shape of a horse saddle shaped hillock it is surrounded by thick forests of pine and fur trees, flowing alongside the city are rivers of Koshi and Suyal and to top it all are the snow capped Himalayas in the background.

It is a town bustling with activity, and has a rich cultural heritage and history. It is considered the cultural heart of the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand.

Almora, a picturesque district in the Kumaun region, with a mesmerizing panoramic view of Himalayas, summons tourists worldwide to its alluring grandeur of natural beauty.Almora is a scenic hill station in the northern state of Uttarakhand. Located on a five km long ridge which is shaped like a horse shoe, Almora is a quaint town in Kumaon Hills in the Himalayan range. It is at an average height of 1,651 meters above sea level, and is surrounded by greenery all around with beautiful thick forests of fir and pine trees covering the hills.

Almora offers amazing views of the snow capped mountain peaks of the Himalayas and is popular among visiting tourists for its natural splendour. The Kosi and Suyal rivers run alongside the town adding to the beauty of the place. It is surrounded by the hill ranges of Kasar Devi, Banari Devi, Shayahi Devi and Katarnal, all of which are adorned by temples at the peaks.

There are many beautiful temples in Almora. The 1000 years old Temple of Goddess Nanda Devi is located right in the middle of the town. The Chitai Temple is the temple of Lord Golu, worshipped by the people of the Kumau region of Uttaranchal. There are quite a few temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, few dedicated to Goddess Durga, and another few Vaishnavite temples scattered all around the town.

Tourism In Almora

Situated on a 5 km long mountain range, the small town of Almora has a unique historical, cultural and political importance. Unlike other cities in the vicinity such as Shimla, Ranikhet and Nainital that were developed by the English, Almora was set up by the Indians. The way this hill station has lived up to its ancient traditions makes it different from other hill stations in the state and the country.

A popular tourist destination among vacationers, Almora is often referred to as the ‘town of temples’. Situated in the centre of the town is the temple of Goddess Nanda Devi, known as Nanda Devi Temple. Though the temple is a major attraction of the town, other places that interest tourists include State Museum and Bright End Corner. Tourists can even travel to the outskirts in order to visit the Deer Park in NTD.

How To Get There

By Air - Nearest airport is Indore- 77 Km.

By Rail - The nearest railway station is Omkareshwar Road- 12 Km on the Ratlam-Khandwa section of the Western Railway.

By Road - Omkareshwar is connected to Indore, Ujjain , Khandwa and Omkareshwar Road by regular bus services.

Situated on the banks of the Narmada, Omkareshwar is one of the 12 revered Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva. It is located at a distance of about 12 miles from Mortakka in Madhya Pradesh. The river Narmada spits into two and forms an island Mandhata or Shivapuri in the center. The shape of the island resembles that of the visual representation of the Omkara sound, Om. There are two temples here, one to Omkareshwar and one to Amareshwar.

Legend has it that the Vindhya mountain prayed to Shiva – Omkareshwara and was blessed here. Legend also has it that upon the request of the Devas, the Shivalinga split into two, one half being Omkareshwara and the other Amaleshwara or Amareshwar. King Mandhatha of the Ishvaku clan is believed to have worshiped Shiva here. The Omkareshawar temple is built in the North Indian style of architecture, with high spires. Devotees consider worship to Panchamuga Ganesha, to be very auspicious.

Not only the name but the existence of these two are also thoroughly different. The temple of Maleshwar is situated south of the river Narmada, but both the forms of Shiva have been counted as one.It is said that once upon a time Vidhya Parvat practiced severe penances and worshipped Parthivarchana along with Lord Omkareshwar for nearly six months. As a result Lord Shiva was pleased and blessed him with the desire boon. On the sincere request of all the gods and the sages Lord Shiva made two parts of the lings. In one he resided as the Pranav or Omkar and assumed the form of Omkareshwar and Bhagwan Sadashiva, Parameshwar, Amareshwar or Amaleshwar assumed form from the Partivlinga.