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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

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.

There is ample justification for regarding Mount Kailash – the highest mountain exclusively within Tibet – as the holiest of all holy places. For Hindus, this awe-inspiring lone peak is the representation on earth of Mt Meru, the spiritual centre of their universe and a ‘world pillar’ 84,000 miles high, around which all else revolves. Hindus believe that Kailash is the abode of Lord Shiva, who sits at the summit with his consort Parvati, otherwise known as the daughter of the Himalayas.

The ‘Parikrama’, circumambulation, or journey round the base, of Mount Kailash, is said to wipe out a whole lifetime of accrued sins and many people report that they feel renewed or changed for the better after undertaking this spiritual journey. It is not just Hindus for whom Kailash is imbued with such great meaning. The Jains regard the mountain as the place where their first prophet achieved enlightenment and it is also of great spiritual significance for Buddhists and for those who still follow the ancient Bon religion. Buddhists call Kailash the “Precious Jewel Peak” and they, too, make many circumambulations in order to achieve enlightenment.

Day 01 : ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU

Upon arrival in Kathmandu. Our representative will meet you at the airport & transfer to hotel. Evening, tour briefing.

Day 02 : FLIGHT, KATHMANDU TO NEPALGUNJ

Morning, Pashupati Darshan & Pooja, afternoon visit Budhanilkanth (sleeping Bishnu), monkey temple then transfer to domestic airport for your flight to Nepalgunj. The flight takes an hour to reach Nepalgunj (the administration head quarter of Western Nepal). In Nepalgunj airport, our representative receives you & transfer to Hotel.

Day 03 : FLY, NEPALGUNJ – SIMIKOT – HILSA, THEN DRIVE TO PURANG (Taklakot – 3400 m.).

Early morning transfer to airport (10 minutes from Hotel) for flying to Hilsa (the boarder between Nepal and China). But before reaching Hilsa, your Helicopter must land at SIMIKOT (the administrative head quarter of Northern frontier of Nepal) because the boarder immigration office is situated here only and according to the regulation of Nepal government, you must go through the immigration check before you get entered into the China side. The entire formalities take about 30 to 45 minutes. After completing the formalities in Simikot, you will continue the journey to Hilsa. Once you land at Hilsa, you will cross the River Karnali through a suspension bridge and get entered to the China side then continue TREKKING up to the “Sher village”. The Chinese immigration Office and Boarder Check Post is situated in Sher village. Our vehicles (Land Cruisers & truck) are waiting there as well. The actual trek takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour to reach Sher from the suspension bridge. Due to the different pace of walking, it may take at least two hours to gather all group members & luggage in immigration office up in Sher. However, the formalities don’t take long time but it depends on the mood of Chinese Police. From Sher, it takes another an hour to reach Taklakot (Purang -3700 m.).
- Nepalgunj to Simikot flight: 1 hour.
- Simikot to Hilsa flight: 20 minutes.
- Hilsa to Sher trek: 1 hour.
- Sher to Taklakot drive: 1 hour.

Day 04 : REST DAY IN TAKLAKOT (PURANG) FOR ACCLIMATIZATION

Today, you will have rest in Taklakot for acclimatization purpose. In fact, you have gained an enormous height within a day while coming in Taklakot, so before making any further journey to the higher elevation, your body should be acclimatized properly with the atmosphere in high altitude. So, it is significantly important to spend a day here for your health. However, we can also arrange a short visit to the Khojarnath temple (the ancient temple of Ram, Sita and Laxman) which is an optional program and you have to pay for transport (going and coming back) as well as the entrance fee of the temple. OR, you may stroll around the city on your own and visit the ruins of ancient Taklakot.
Khojarnath temple: Khojarnath temple is the ancient temple of Ram, Sita and Laxman. The temple (Monastery) is 1100 years old. – Takalakot to Khojarnath temple: 45 minutes (one way) by Jeep.

Day 05 : DRIVE, PURANG TO LAKE MANSAROVAR (Chiu Gompa – 4550 m.)

Early morning (after breakfast) you will depart for Lake Manasarovar (4560 m- Chui Gompa). The drive takes about 2 to 2 1/2 hours. On the way, you will have a short break in Rakshas Taal (Lake Ravana) to take some pictures & observe the sceneries. After taking a short break in Rakshas Taal, you will continue your journey to Lake Manasarover. After having holy dip and lunch at Lake Mansarovar, you will start for circumambulation around the lake by jeep. The journey around the lake requires approximately 3 hours.
- The distance of Mansarovar circumambulation: 72 km
- Taklakot to Lake Manasarovar: 3 hours.
- Jeep tour around Lake Manasarovar: 3 hours.

Day 06 : DRIVE, LAKE MANSAROVAR TO DARCHEN (4664 m.).

In the morning, perform Pooja (worship) & Snan (holy dip) after that we head out to Darchen (Mount Kailash base camp, 4662m).
- Lake Mansarovar to Darchen – 40 km
- Lake Mansarovar to Darchen drive – 1 hour & 30 minutes.

Day 07 : DRIVE, DARCHEN TO YAM DWAR THEN TREK TO DERAPHUK (4920 m)

Early morning, drive to Yam Dwar (OR Serson, 10 kms / 4750m), the auspicious gateway to the Parikrama (circuit) around Mt. Kailash. As well as, this is the sky burial sites of local Tibetan people. From here, you can see the closest view of Mt. Kailash. This is the particular place from where the group normally splits in two parts. Those, who are willing to perform the holy circumambulation around the Mt. Kailash will start trekking from this place and the rest of the people who are not willing to go for trekking will return Darchen on Jeep and wait for others to come. The trail to Deraphuk is easy & flat but because of the high elevation of the area, you will find this trek a tough one. The total journey to Deraphuk Gompa (4890m/18 km). requires 5 to 6 hours respectively. However, it depends on your pace.
- Darchen to Yam Dwar drive: 45 minutes.
- Yam Dwar to Deraphuk trek: 5 to 6 hours

Day 08 : TREK TO ZUTULPHUK (4780 m). VIA DOLMA PASS (5600 m.)

Early morning start up hill trekking to Dolma-La (5600 m). This is the toughest day of this journey. The entire trail up to Dolma-La is gradually up and from here the trail rapidly drops down to the next valley (Zutulphuk). The holiest water pool (glacial lake – Gauri kunda) is just situated beyond this pass. This is the lake, people believe, where Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva used to take bath. After making down hill trek to the valley (the next side of the high pass), the trek up to Zutulphuk Gomba requires another two hours. From here, the train is easy and flat.

Day 09 : FINISH TREK NEAR DARCHEN THEN DRIVE BACK TO TAKLAKOT

Today, you will complete the circumambulation around Mt. Kailash. The trek will be finished near Darchen where our vehicles will be waiting to fetch you and transfer to Taklakot. Evening in Taklakot.
- Zutulphuk to trek ending point: 3 hours
- Darchen to Purang drive: 3 hours

Day 10 : DRIVE TO HILSA – FLY KATHMANDU VIA NEPALGUNJ

Early morning (after breakfast), you will drive to Sher village then trek down to Hilsa (45 minutes) and take Helicopter flight to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj.
- Purang to Sher: 1 hour.
- Sher to Hilsa trek: 30 minutes.
- Hilsa to Simikot: 20 minutes flight.
- Simikot to Nepalgunj: 1 hour.
- Nepalgunj to Kathmandu: 1 hours

Day 11 : BACK HOME

Transfer to Tribhuvan International airport for your flight back home. Reporting time at the airport counter: two hours prior to the departure time.

Udaipur Airport : 26 KM
Udaipur Railway Station : 4 KM
Roadways Bus Stand : 3 KM

Location:
Shiv Niwas Palace is located in the heart of the city.

Accommodation:
The hotel offers luxurious accommodation in its 6 Royal Suites, 3 Imperial Suites, 8 Terrace Suites, and 19 Palace Rooms. Each of its room is a masterpiece of art and royal taste. All the accommodations feature modern amenities.

The feeling of royalty and comfort of home, Shiv Niwas Palace is one of the prominent heritage hotels of Udaipur. The palace built in the 20th century serves high profile guests business executives, and honeymooners. While the look is that of century old architecture, amenities here would give you a complete different feeling. With Udaipur city views and a splendorous garden, this palace hotel of Udaipur has made a mark among the heritage hotels of India. Shiv Niwas Udaipur has 17 well-decorated and furnished suites for the royal visitors. This hotel is also popular for hosting wedding ceremonies and other banquets. Guests here also enjoy car parking, pick and drop, and laundry services.

Day 01 : Delhi
Arrive Delhi – one of the most important metropolitan, as it is the city of power. It has a very good combination of both modern, as well as ancient culture. Transfer to your hotel and rest of the day is at leisure to explore the city. Over night stay at the hotel.

Day 02 : Delhi – Jaipur
Today you will drive to the pink city of Jaipur (260 Kms). Enroute you will visit Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted red sandstone city built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Check into your hotel on arrival and rest of the day is at leisure. This evening you may optionally visit to Chokhi Dhani, an ethnic Rajasthani village near Jaipur.

Day 03 : Jaipur
This morning visit the Amber fort, built in 16th century, enjoy an elephant ride at Amber. Drive past the Hawa Mahal, a Palace of winds. In the afternoon you will visit the city palace and museum, walk to adjacent Jantar Mantar an astronomical observatory. Rest of the evening is at leisure.

Day 04 : Jaipur – Jodhpur
After breakfast proceed by surface to Jodhpur (340 Kms), Upon arrival check-in to the Hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. Over night stay at the Hotel.

Day 05 : Jodhpur – Jaisalmer
After breakfast drive to Jaisalmer (285 kms). Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert, like a golden mirage, is the magical city of Jaisalmer. With the crenellated golden sandstone town walls and narrow, streets, lined with exquisitely carved buildings, through which camel carts trundle leisurely, it has an extraordinarily medieval feel and an incredible atmosphere. Arrive and check in Hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight at Jaisalmer.

Day 06 : Jaisalmer
After breakfast visit to the Fort, bazaars and the old mansions known as Havelis. People still live in these ancient buildings dating from 12th to 15th century. Every house has exquisite carvings and filigreed work. Over night stay at Jaisalmer.

Day 07 : Jaisalmer
The day is at leisure to explore the city and shopping. Over night stay at the hotel.

Day 08 : Jaisalmer – Bikaner
Breakfast at hotel. Later drive to Bikaner (333 Kms). Check in at the hotel on arrival. Later visit Junagarh fort, Lalgarh palace, Museum and the camel-breeding farm. Over night stay in hotel.

Day 09 : Bikaner – Pushkar
Breakfast at hotel. Later drive to Pushkar (250 Kms). Check in at the hotel on arrival. Later visit the Bramhas temple and the ghats on the banks of holy lake. Over night stay in hotel.

Day 10 : Pushkar – Delhi
After breakfast drive to Delhi (400 Kms). Arrive and check in at the hotel. Over night stay at the hotel.

Day 11 : Delhi
Transfer to the airport/ Railway station for homeward journey.