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Archive for the ‘States of West India’ Category

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
Spread over an area of 8 sq. km., the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is the smallest among the wildlife reserves in Goa. Due to its relatively small area, the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is known more as a wildlife resort than a sanctuary. Within its confines, the Bondla sanctuary houses a botanical garden, a rose garden, deer safari park and a zoo, initially established as a refuge for injured or orphaned animals. The zoo provides a glimpse of the animal species found in the sanctuary while the botanical garden houses a large variety of exotic plants. The Nature Education Center in the sanctuary is an effort to bring nature close to people. Apart from a number of exhibits, the library of the center screens video and cine movies to tourists and young kids.

Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary
Along the north from Panaji on the road to Belgaum, is a sanctuary that covers 240-sq-kms. Thick forest clad slopes of the Western Ghats that is rich in wildlife and a paradise for bird watchers. The core zone of the sanctuary, comprising an area of 107 sq. km., was declared a National Park in 1978 and is known as the Mollem National Park. Apart from being home to exotic wildlife species, Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary boasts of a host of tourist attractions in the form of unique geographical formations and scenic spots. The basalt rock formation known as Devil’s Canyon serves as an ideal vantage point for watching the wildlife of the sanctuary. The Dudhsagar waterfalls located in the fringes of the sanctuary presents a breathtaking spectacle with water gushing down from a height of 200m. The Tambdi Surla temple was built by the Kadamba kings in the 13th century.

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
It’s quite surprising that the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is the only Goa wildlife reserve that is dedicated to the birds of the region. Because the island of Chorao is full of mangrove swamps, the region produces exceptional cover and vegetation for many different breeds of local coastal bird as well as the perfect resting ground for migrating birds from all around the world. The reason the mangrove swamps are so popular with birds is that they are home to numerous small insects and fish that begin the food chain. The Goa wildlife reserve is a little less than 2 square kilometers in area and as well as the birds it is also possible to see jackals, flying squirrels and crocodiles.

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
Located on the Goa – Karnataka border, the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is the second biggest wildlife reserve in Goa. The Cotigao Sanctuary, a designated reserve since 1969, sprawls over an area of 86 sq. km. The Talpona river meanders through the thick vegetation and serves as the perennial water source for the sanctuary.

The Forest Department has set up a Nature Interpretation Center in the sanctuary to impart knowledge to tourists regarding wildlife. Avid nature buffs can climb up a 25-meter high treetop watchtower for a view of the wildlife in their natural habitat.

State Archaeological Museum
From Brahmanical sculptures to medieval coins, stamps and portraits; the Archaeological Museum of Goa is one of the ideal destinations for those enthusiastic about ancient history. Tourists get to explore the remnants of Portuguese rule and small items that provide a glimpse into Goa’s rich cultural heritage. From great paintings of Vasco da Gama to Alphonso De Albuquerque the museum also has ancient artefacts of the other periods. The gateway is decorated by a towering statue of Alphonso De Albuquerque. The 3-6m high bronze statue of Alfonso de Albuquerque greets the guests at the entrance.

The Archaeological Museum Goa has been operational from the year 1964. It was rearranged and reorganised fully during the CHOGM Retreat in Goa during 1982. A lengthy hall lying to the retired side of the gateway to the Museum was converted into two galleries by laying a reinforced concrete floor with a newly built wide staircase at the extreme west to facilitate access to the first floor.

Museum of Christian Art
The Museum of Christian Art symbolizes an effort to showcase the richness of Indo-Portuguese Christian Art from Goa. It highlights a part of Goa’s heritage that is badly neglected and if not preserved, will be lost forever. The Museum of Christian Art showcases the wealth found in the various churches built by the Portuguese in Goa as well as some donations by private families. Intended to be a representative collection, every object displayed in the museum, reflects the immense wealth of the churches of Goa.

Asia’s first Museum of Christian Art was initially located at the Seminary of Rachol, Salcette, Goa, where it was inaugurated in 1994. The Museum is now relocated within the Convent of Santa Monica, Old Goa, in the vicinity of world Heritage Monuments.

Pilar Museum
Set on a small hill just south of the capital city of Panaji, along the National highway NH17 to Margao and Vasco, the Pilar Seminary is worth visiting for its quiet ambience, the small but interesting one-room museum and the spectacular views of the countryside from its location. The Capuchin monks founded the Seminary in 1613. They established a centre of learning along with the Church, which was named after Our Lady of Pilar, whose statue they had brought along with them from Spain. Around a small garden inside, there are cloisters decorated with seventeenth century frescoes. There is an interesting pictorial depiction of the history of the world, drawn by a missionary in the 1940s and a reredos with Fransiscan saints in the niches. The chapel on the first floor of this building is surrounded by some magnificent stained-glass windows, hardly seen anywhere in Goa. And if you can make it up to the roof terrace which is two floors higher, you are rewarded with some spectacular views of the Zuari river towards Vasco and also of the rice fields and coconut plantations of the Tiswadi taluka.

Naval Aviation Museum
Inaugurated on October 12, 1998, the Naval Aviation Museum is divided into two sections, an out-door exhibit and a number of indoor galleries.
Starting off with a humble collection of six vintage naval aircrafts, the museum has metamorphosed into India’s second largest aviation museum with twelve aircrafts on display. Among the aircraft collection, the piece-de-resistance is the giant Lockheed L-1049G Super Constellation borrowed by the Navy from the Indian Air Force. Other aircrafts include Sea Harrier, Sea Hawk, Sealand, Alize, Dove, Vampire and Hughes. If the outdoor exhibits swell your heart with pride, the indoor galleries are no less impressive. Step inside and massive replicas of aircraft carriers INS Vikrant and INS Viraat will welcome you. The weapons and armaments galleries display a variety of bombs, torpedos, sensors and cannon used by naval aircraft over the ages. The archive section features a photo gallery where old photos are on display profiling the Naval Aviation History from 1959 onwards in pictures and footnotes.

Cabo Raj Niwas
Built in 1540 AD opposite Fort Aguada on the south headland of the river Mandovi, the Cabo (the Portuguese word for cape) Palace fortress housed the Franciscan monastery, which later (1594 AD) became the official residence of the Governor of Goa. The beauty, solitude and uniqueness and well-planned features are some of the main attractions of the Cabo. A small Chapel was constructed at the very end of the mansion dedicated to Our virgin lady of The cape (Nossa Senhora do Cabo). It also served as a landmark for the seafarers.

The official reception area consists area consists of a large hall called the Darbar Hall, used at the time of receptions and swearing in ceremonies and other official occasions. The Dining room has a seating capacity of over 30 persons. The living quarters of the Governor and his family are on the same floor. A glossy verandah runs along the entire portion overlooking the Mandovi Bay and the Arabian Sea giving one a feeling of being on a ship’s deck.

Mormugao Fort
It is situated at the extreme northwestern point of Salsete and guard the entrance to the port. Located just north of Vasco Da Gama city and just south of Mormugao Port, this is the closest fort to Goa’s airport. Primarily, Mormugao was generalized to be the capital of the Portuguese empire, hence the fort was erected and in 1703 the viceroy moved into the town. The fortress is about 10 km in circumference and boasts of possessing some ancient articles like 20 bulwarks, three magazines, five prisons, a chapel and quarters for the guard. There were two beautiful fountains. The Fonte de Malabar kept the royal arms and was said to bob up from a gold mine and the Fonte de Santo Ignacio which had a more modest beginning in a sulphur mine.

Tiracol Fort
The fort has in its courtyard the century old Church of St. Anthony. The church is opened only on special occasions and has a classical late Goan facade. The church is full of light and dominates an elegant look. Cross the court and walk up the narrow stone stairs, through short passages into split level rooms, which follow the shapes of headland: old furniture, superb views over the river Tiracol and the beaches and are the main attractions of the fort. Fort Therekol in “Goa” now runs as a hotel called Fort Tiracol. The rooms within the church have been converted into beautiful massive rooms with multi-cuisine bar and restaurant. All rooms are equipped with modern facilities.onstituent of Goan history, and being one of the most important India forts it is also very popular with those indulging in historical travel activities of Goa.

Aguada Fort
The fort was constructed in 1612 to guard against the Dutch and the Marathas. It was a reference point for the vessels coming from Europe at that time. This old Portuguese fort stands on the beach south of Candolim, at the shore of the Mandovi river. It was initially tasked with defense of shipping and the nearby Bardez District. A spring within the fort provided water supply to the ships that called there, giving it the name “Aguada” (meaning ‘water’ in Portuguese). On the northern side, it provides a harbour for local shipping. The fort, at present, houses the central jail. A 19th century built lighthouse is situated inside the fortress.

Chapora Fort
Chapora fort was built by the Adil Shah of Bijapur on the southern headland of the Chapora River. It was also known as “Shahpur” and is now mostly ruined. It has a commanding view of the Vagator beach and is near to Anjuna beach.

The red laterite bastion, crowning the rocky bluff, was built by the Portuguese in 1617 on the site of an earlier Muslim structure. Deserted in the 19th century, it lies in ruins today, although the views up and down the coast from the weed-infested ramparts are still superb.

Cabo De Rama Fort
Unlike many other forts in the state, the Cabo da Rama fort predates the Portuguese invasion of Goa. Possession of the fort changed hands many a time as dynasties fell and rose during the ages. In 1763 the Portuguese claimed the Cabo de Rama fort after defeating the Raja of Soonda and renovated it subsequently. The present ramshackle structure with turrets and rusty cannons is a remnant of the Portuguese. Apart from scattered ruins here and there, the Cabo da Rama fort does not hold any attractions. Within its ramparts, the moated fort houses the church of Santo Antonio which is in excellent condition and is still in use. The western side of the fortress, where the cliffs drop sharply to the sea, provides a panoramic view of the surrounding areas.

Juhu beach is one of the most attractive sea beaches of Mumbai. This flat beach is located almost at center of the Mumbai town. Located 18-km north of the city centre, it’s a major beach site on the shores of Arabian Sea and is one of the posh localities of Mumbai where one can find the bungalows of the famous film personalities of Bollywood. It’s also a favourite shooting site among the filmmakers as many film shootings are also held over here.

On the southern end of the Juhu beach one can find many Luxury hotels and apartments, which are regarded as a favourite haunt of Mumbai’s movers and shakers. The beach, which almost seems deserted during weekdays, always tends to get very crowded on weekends. One of the major attraction of Juhu beach is Sunset.

Juhu has the specialty of being the largest as well the most frequently visited beaches in India. Climate being uniform that is warm, except during monsoon rains from June to September, Juhu is a wonderful resort for the tourist. Juhu is the best place to bring the entire community (Mumbaikars – residents of Mumbai) on common social grounds and much interaction takes place amidst the natural ambience provided by the beach. Children, adults and aged, locals and tourists all make up the population that inhibits the beach especially on weekends.

The beach was in news in mid 2005 following the diamond rush. It is believed that high tides had brought with it colored crystals called Ámerican diamonds’ and people next day joined in great numbers for the treasure hunt. The American diamonds were for sure recovered but their worth goes no more than 10 rupees.

Porbandar was the last capital of the Jethwa Rajputs, who ruled this area for about 1200 years- shifting capitals from Ghumli, Ranpur and Chhaya. Present day Porbandar was established as a capital by Rana Sartanji in 1785 AD. Porbandar is situated along the Arabian Sea in the western Indian state of Gujarat. Famous as the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, the city is well connected to the other parts of the country by rail, road, and air. The most impressive feature of Porbandar is the city planning and the stone buildings with ashlar masonary and rich carving. The facades of the houses on either side of the streets, with series of windows, carved gateways, using eclectic architectural language, invites tourists to experience the streetscape on foot. The series of vistas enriched by a skyline of temples and beautiful public buildings and edifices overlooking the sea on Marine Drive puts Porbandar on the list of coastal heritage towns of Gujarat.

Kirti Mandir : It is built next to the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, who was born here in 1869 AD. Lacs of Indian tourists visit the house of the Mahatma and Kasturba, his wife. Kirti Mandir has a Gandhian library and a prayer hall.

Huzoor Palace : It is located at the end of Marine Drive, in a huge campus. The sprawling palace, built in the European style with sloping roofs is a horizontal structure with several wings and big windows, overlooking the sea. The wings are interspersed with the back and front yards, bringing nature and the building together by gardens and fountains. The semi-circular porticos with neo-classical pillars, decorated entrance gate and commanding view makes it a must for the visitor. Other such examples of Royal and Public heritage buildings from the colonial period are public library, old Raj Mahal (now a college), Victoria Jubilee Madresa, Collectorate, Bhavsinhji High School, Natwarsinhji Sports Club.

Sati Anusuya Ashrama
Sati Anusuya ashrama is in Chitrakuta, located further upstreams the Mandakini, 16 km from the town, set amidst thick forests that round to the melody of birdsong all day. It was here that sage Atri, his wife Anusuya and their three sons ( who were the three incarnations of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh), lived and are said to have meditated. Sati Anusuya ashrama at present is a very peaceful place where various streams from the hills converge and form the Mandakini River. It is said that Rama along with Sita had visited this place to meet Maharishi Atri and Sati Anusuya. It is here Sati Anusuya explained to Sita the grandeur and importance of satitva.

Ramghat
Ramghat is the most important pilgrimage site of Chitrakoot located on the banks of River Mandakini. A lot of religious activities take place at the Ramghat . A large number of devotees throng the area to offer their prayers. You can also take a boat ride in the rippling waters of the River Mandakini. The view of the banks of the river from the boats is lovely and is sure to impress you. The activity builds up in a crescendo of colour and spontaneous expressions of faith through the day, past high noon, gently diminishing as the setting sun picks out the bright colours of flower petals floating down the river, while the evening ‘arti’ lends its melodious cadences to the deepening dusk. At all times, Ramghat witnesses a deep and abiding faith which finds expression in the rituals which honour the sanctity of chitrakoot.

Janaki Kund
Janaki Kund is a beautiful stretch of the river Mandakini. The blue water of the river well compliments the crystal clear sky. Everything seems to be in absolute harmony with nature. There is not a chord which is out of place. You will surely be impressed by the tranquil surroundings of this place. There are two approaches to janaki kund: 2 km up from Ramghat by boat, or by road along a foliagelined drive. Certainly, this quiet spot seems to have been specially blessed, for an aura of total harmony and quietitude haloes it, seting it apart from the bustle of the everyday world.

Gupt-Godavari
Gupt-Godavari is situated at a distance of 18 km from town. Here is a pair of caves, one high and wide with an entrance through which one can barely pass, and the other long and narrow with stream of water running along its base. It is believed that lord Rama and Lakshmana held court in latter cave, which has two natural throne-like rocks.

Hanuman Dhara
Hanuman Dhara is a spring located on a steep hillside in Chitrakut. On foot one has to climb a steep flight of 360 steps to reach this place. There is a big statue of Lord Hanuman, on which the water of this spring tumbles over. It is believed that, Hanuman Dhara was created by Ram to assuage Hanuman when he returned after setting Lanka on fire. A couple of temples commemorate this spot which offers a panoramic view of Chitrakoot. There is an open, paved area here in the shade of a massive peepul tree, a lovely halting place after the long climb up.

Here are some more places to see in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.

Tomb of Mohammad Ghaus
Ghaus’ tomb is built in the shape of a large square with hexagonal towers at its corners. The walls of the building have elaborate carved-stone latticework. The whole building is surmounted by a large dome, which was earlier covered with blue glazed tiles. The tomb of Mohammad Ghaus, a saint of the Islamic faith of the 16th century. Associating hardly any importance from a historical point of view, the tomb exudes sheer beauty. The stone carvings in the panels of screen work create a magical charm.

Memorial of Tansen
Next to the tomb of Ghaus is located another small tomb – the Memorial of Tansen. This is the memorial built to commemorate Tansen, the great musician and one of the nine gems of Akbar’s court. It is here that the annual Tansen Sangeet Samaroh, a world-renowned music festival, is held. This pillar of Hindustani classical music is built in the early Mughal architectural style. More than a monument, the tomb is part of Gwalior’s living cultural heritage. It is the venue of the annual Tansen Music Festival.

Kala Vithika
Located near the Gwalior Railway Station, Kala Vithika bears a major part of the town’s history and culture. Kala Vithika is one of the treasure houses of arts in Gwalior. It remains closed on Sundays and public holidays. The tourists can get a glimpse of the history and culture of Gwalior at Kala Vithika. The museum offers a delightful experience to the tourists coming to Gwalior.

Surya Mandir
The Surya Mandir (Sun Temple), a replica of the famed Sun Temple at Konark in Orissa is one of the important tourist attractions of Gwalior. It was built by G. D. Birla, the famous Indian industrialist. The Surya Mandir, Madhya Pradesh is one of the new entrants into the list of the places of interest in Gwalior. The temple is one of the architectural wonders and has a beautiful sculpture of Lord Surya in the temple premises.Surya Temple, Gwalior has captivating exteriors which has been built of red sand stone.The temple interior has white marble and this adds to the exotic beauty of this marvelous creation.

Teli-ka-Mandir
The ninth century temple of Teli-ka-Mandir, built in Dravidian form, is believed to be the oldest in the fort. The sculptures are particularly North Indian. Devoted to Lord Vishnu, a figure of garuda (mythical bird) resides on top of the 10-metre-high doorway. A figure of Garuda crowns the high doorway, which is the highest structure in the fort.