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Taj Mahal, the pinnacle of Mughal architecture, was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan (1628-1658), grandson of Akbar the great, in the memory of his queen Arjumand Bano Begum, entitled ‘Mumtaz Mahal’. Mumtaz Mahal was a niece of empress Nur Jahan and granddaughter of Mirza Ghias Beg I’timad-ud-Daula, wazir of emperor Jehangir. She was born in 1593 and died in 1631, during the birth of her fourteenth child at Burhanpur. Her mortal remains were temporarily buried in the Zainabad garden. Six months later, her body was transferred to Agra to be finally enshrined in the crypt of the main tomb of the Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal is the mausoleum of both Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan.

The Taj is located on the bank of the river Yamuna. For construction, a network of wells was laid along the river line to support the huge mausoleum buildings. Masons, stonecutters, inlayers, carvers, painters, calligraphers, dome-builders and other artisans were requisitioned from the whole of the empire and also from Central Asia and Iran. While bricks for internal constructions were locally prepared, white marble for external use in veneering work was obtained from Makrana in Rajasthan. Semi-precious stones for inlay ornamentation were brought from distant regions of India, Ceylon and Afghanistan. Red sandstone of different tints was requisitioned from the neighbouring quarries of Sikri, Dholpur, etc. It took 17 years for the monument complex to be completed in 1648.

When you think about visiting Taj, a question may come up in your mind about "how to spend a day at Taj".
Even though Taj Mahal seems to be a single building, but there are so many structures inside it that you will feel that a day at the Taj Mahal is just insufficient to explore this amazing monument. If
you want to appreciate the beauty of this splendid monument fully, we suggest that you should visit it atleast twice. In the morning, Taj Mahal, veiled with mist and immersed in a soft red glow, looks straight out of a fairy tale. The reflection of the sunlight falling on its white marble facade changes color from soft gray and yellow to pearly cream and dazzling white, as the day passes.

In all, the Taj Mahal covers an area of 60 bighas, as the terrain gradually sloped from south to north, towards the river, in the form of descending terraces. At the southern point is the forecourt with the main gate in front and tombs of Akbarabadi Begum and Fatehpuri Begum, two other queens of Shah Jahan, on its south-east and south-west corners respectively called Saheli Burj 1 and 2.

The main tomb of the Taj is basically square with chamfered corners. The minarets here are detached, facing the chamfered angles (corners) of the main tomb on the main plinth. Red sandstone mosque on the western, and Mehman-Khana on the eastern side of the tomb provides aesthetically a clear colour contrast. On the second terrace is a spacious square garden, with side pavilions. It is
divided into four quarters by broad shallow canals of water, with wide walkways and cypress avenues on the sides. The water channels and fountains are fed by overhead water tanks. These four quarters are further divided into the smaller quarters by broad causeways, so that the whole scheme is in a perfect char-bagh.
 

Rajasthan’s beautiful Pink City Jaipur, was the stronghold of a clan of rulers whose three hill forts and series of palaces in the city are important attractions. Known as the Pink City because of the colour of the stone used exclusively in the walled city, Jaipur’s bazaars sell embroidered leather shoes,
blue pottery, tie and dye scarves and other exotic wares. Western Rajasthan itself forms a convenient circuit, in the heart of the Thar desert which has shaped its history, lifestyles and architecture.

Founded in AD 1727 by Sawai Jaisingh II, Jaipur the capital of Rajasthan is popularly known as the Pink City with broad avenues and spacious gardens. The capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is steeped in history and culture. Here the past
comes alive in magnificent forts and palaces, blushed pink, where once lived the maharajas. The bustling bazaars of Jaipur, famous for Rajasthani jewellery, fabric and shoes, possess a timeless quality and are surely a treasure-trove for the shoppers. This fascinating city with its romantic charm takes you to an epoch of royalty and tradition.

Jaipur has been laid according to the conventional nine-grid pattern that astrologers believe to be lucky, and which has been recommended in the ancient Indian treatise on architecture. Each grid consists of a square, and these have been planned so that, at the heart of the city is the City Palace. Spread around it, in rows, are public buildings, the residences of noblemen, the living and trading quarters of merchants and artisans. Straight, wide roads run through the city, while a high, crenellated wall that forms its defense is pierced with seven gateways that serve as entry points. Today, these walls may be more difficult to spot since the city has grown far beyond its original plan, but they are still there, proof that though Jaipur saw no great siege, it was more than adequately prepared for it.

The first amusement park of India, Appu Ghar is the favorite of all children because of its exquisite roller coasters and water slides. The mini-Disneyland of Delhi was inaugurated on 19th November, 1984. It has joy rides for people of all ages. The large range of swings and rides here include the popular Roller Coaster, Big Splash, Dodgem Cars, Eerie Tunnel, Giant Wheel and Appu Columbus. Children love the thrill of riding in a Cable Car and the Speeding Cup. Since, there is no snowfall in New Delhi; the ice games at OYSTERS (a water park) are quite popular.

Four acres of the water park, blanketed with ice offers sledding, skiing, ice boating and bowling is a craze among Delhiites. The couples love to shake a leg and romance in the Rain Dance or the Ice Dance that are introduced according to the season. This water park is especially preferred by people to beat off the scorching heat of the summers. Today, Appu Ghar has become a brand amongst all the amusement parks in the country. It is located on Gate No. 4 at Pragati Maidan and is proposed to be opened at two more locations in Rohini and Noida. This amusement park was the dream child of Smt. Indira Gandhi.

It was realized when, the then Prime Minister, Rajiv Gandhi inaugurated it on her Birthday in 1984. Appu Ghar is spread over an area of 15.5 acres of land and houses 22 immensely popular rides. There is an interesting story behind the name of the park. Appu, the elephant, was both the cartoon mascot and a live elephant mascot that became the beloved star of the 1982 Asian Games in New Delhi. As a result, the amusement park got the name from that Mascot’s name. "Appu" is the name of the Elephant and "Ghar" means House. Appu Ghar is the Numero Uno amongst all the amusement parks of Delhi and definitely a trend setter.

The word Amritsar means the holy pool of nectar. 1573 Work began on digging the holy pool. 1601 Harmandir Sahib completed. 1604 Guru Granth Sahib installed. Alongside people representing 52 professions settled. In Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s time Amritsar had superceded Lahore as the pre-eminent city of the Orient

Amritsar, literally a Pool of Nectar, derives its name from Amrit Sarovar, the holy tank that surrounds the fabulous Golden Temple. First time visitors to Amritsar could be forgiven for the impression that Amritsar is like any other small town in northern India. But Amritsar stands head and shoulders above any other city, its status elevated and sanctified by the presence of the venerable Golden Temple.

Amritsar has various historical and religious sites. The most famous of them all in the Golden Temple which was founded by the fourth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Ramdas and completed by his successor Guru Arjan Dev. Another revered shrine is the Durgiana Temple which is dedicated to goddess Durga.

Amritsar is one of the most ancient and fascinating cities of India. It is an important seat of Sikh history and culture. Being the gateway for travellers coming to India on the overland route from central Asia it soon became the centre of various commercial activities.
 

Ajmer is located at 130 kms south-west of Jaipur. The foundation of the city was laid down by Raja Ajay Pal Chauhan in the 7th Century A.D. and continued to be a major center of the Chauhan power till 1193 A.D. when Prithviraj Chauhan lost it to Mohammed Ghauri.The City was subsequently conquered by the Scindias and, in 1818, it was handed over to the British,the place came under the direct control of the British rule. Ajmer is a popular pilgrimage center for the Hindus as well as Muslims.

Ajmer is a very beautiful city, since it is surrounded by the mountain by all sides. You can run your eyes through 360 degrees and you will find the spectacular Aravali Mountains. Ajmer, also known as Ajaymeru, was the city which was ruled by Prithviraj Chauhan. Its population was approximately 500,000 in 2001. The city gives its name to a district, and also to a former province of British India called Ajmer-Merwara, which, after India’s independence, became the state of Ajmer until November 1, 1956, when it was merged into Rajasthan
state.

Here are few places to see in Jaisalmer..

Jaisalmer Fort
Jaisalmer was founded in the 12th century by the Bhati Rajputs who shifted here from Lodurva.The bastions encompasses a palace complex, the havelis of rich Jain merchants carved with an incredibly light touch, & Hindu temples.Owing to flourishing trade the city soon became rich, the merchants, who also served as ministers in the royal courts, came to command more power than the rulers themselves. The large mansions of the merchants, built adjacent to each other in the nature of medieval desert cultures, are so well decorated that the palace, in comparison, appears to pale.

Desert National Park  Desert National Park is located at 40 km away to the south-west of Jaisalmer.The place covers over 3000 Sq. kms.The park displays a wide number of awe-inspiring Sam sand dunes. The park is a protected bio reserve which houses Indian Gazelle, Chinkara, Eagle and many such birds and animals. Foreign tourists require permission from the District Magistrate and Desert National Park Office to enter this area. Domestic tourists require permission from the Desert National Park Office.

Nathmalji Ki Haveli
The foundation of this temple is laid down by the Prime Minister of Jaisalmer in 1855.The elephants that guard this Haveli are carved out of yellow sandstone.Two brothers, Hathu and Lallu built each side of the haveli because of which a slight difference is noticed in each side on camparision.However, the atmosphere inside the whole mansion is peaceul and perfectly harmonious.

Salim Singh ki Haveli

The foundation of this temple is dated back to 300 years.The old haveli of Jaisalmer was constructed by Prime Minister of Jaisalmer and later gifted to Maharaja Rawal Gaj Singh – Salim Singh.The haveli has a beautiful blue cupola roof which has been carved beautifully in brackets in the form of peacocks. The mansion is built in yellow stone.It exhibits intricate carvings and an elaborate projecting balcony on the top storey. The mansion is one of the most notable of the array of havelies.

Jain Temple
The rich and influential Jain community built many temples in and around Jaisalmer. There is a group of five temples lying within the fort.The Paraswanath temple is the oldest and the most beautiful of the Jain Temples. The walls of the sanctum are carved with animal and human figures and rising above is a tall Shikhar, which is crowned by an amalak and a waterpot containing a lotus flower.The temple was built between the 12th and 15th centuries.the tourist can visit the temple only till 12 O’ clock in the afternoon.
 

Introduction

Jaisalmer looks like a golden mirage rising from the heart of the Thar desert.the fort has been carved out of yellow sandstone. The city has a mythological significance. According to which, Lord Krishna the head of the Yadav Clan, forcasted Arjuna that a remote descendent of the Yadav Clan would built his kingdom at the top of the Trikuta Hill. His prophecy was fulfilled in 1156 A.D. when Rawal Jaisal, a descendent of the Yadav Clan and a Bhatti Rajput, conquered his fort at Lodurva and founded a new capital – Jaisalmer on the Trikuta Hill. The Life within the citadel conjures up images of medieval majesty visible in its narrow lanes strewn with magnificent palace, havelis, temples and of course skilled artisans and ubiquitous camels.

Here are few places to see in Bikaner city of Rajasthan.

Junnagarh

The foundation of the place was laid down by Raja Rai Singh(1571-1611 A.D.), a general in the army of emperor Akbar in 1593 A.D.The fort is a formidable structure encircled by a moat and has some beautiful places within. The place has been carved out of red sandstone (Dulmera) and marble.The fort has 986 long wall with 37 bastions and two entrances.The main entrance of the temple is Karan Poal.Junnagarh encompasses places like Anop mahal, Ganga niwas, Rang mahal, Durbar Hall, Gaj mandir, Sheesh Mahal or mirror chamber etc.Anoop Mahal is renowed for it’s gold leaf painting. Har Mandir exhibits a majestic chapel where the royal family worshiped there Gods and Goddesses. Chandra mahal or moon palace displays exquisite paintings on the lime plaster walls and Phool mahal or the Flower palace is famous for its inset mirror work. The gigantic columns , arches and graceful screen grace the palaces.

Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum
The museum is located near the Lalgarh Palace in Bikaner.The founadation of this museum was laid down in 1937 on the eve of the Golden jubilee celebrations of Maharaja Ganga Singh. In 1954, the museum was shifted to a new building in the Civil lines.The museum exhibits one of the richest collection of Terracotta ware, weapons, maniature paintings of Bikaner school and coins.The collection can be traced back to Harappan civilisation, Gupta and Kushan era and sculptures of the late classical time.The museum is divided into several sections like Maharaja Ganga Singh Memorial Local Arts and Crafts History Sculpture, Terracotta and Bronzes, Armory, Miniature Paintings and Folk-Arts, Dr. L.P. Tessitori Memorial Section, Lithoprints of the British interpretation of the war of Independence 1857.The tourist can visit the museum on all days except Friday and gazetted holidays and the timings are from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm.

Bhandaser Jain Temple

The temple is located at 5kms from Bikaner.The foundation of this temple can be traced back to 15th century.It is the oldest and distinct monument of bikaner dedicated to Sumati Nath Ji,the 5th Tirthankar of the Jain Religion.The temple displays rich mirror work, frescoes and gold leaf paintings.The temple was constructed near Laxminath temple in 1540A.D.The temple has been carved out of red sand stone and white marble.

Lakshminath Temple
It is one of the oldest temples of Bikaner. The temple was built by Rao Bikaji in the year 1488 A.D. Being a historical monument the temple holds special identity. This temple was constructed during the reign of Rao Lunkaran.It displays superb archeological skills of artists and artisans of that period .It was later develpoed by Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji. The countless devotees of God
Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi visit the temple for offering prayers and ceremonies.

Lalgarh Palace & Sadul Museum
The foundation of this palace was laid down by Maharaja Ganga Singh (1881-1942 A.D.) in the memory of his father Maharaja Lal Singhji in 1902 AD.The palace was carved out of red sand stone with beautiful latticework and filigree work.The palace displays prawling lawns with blooming bougainvillea and dancing peacocks.
The exotic palace exhibits magnificent pillars, richly carved fire mantles , Italian colonnades and motif of lotus in full bloom, past vintage etchings, hunting trophies and old portraits.The visitings hours of the palace is from 10.00 AM to 5.00 PM.The museum remain close on Sundays.