Archive for the ‘States of West India’ Category
February 3rd, 2012 | 
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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.
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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.
Colva beach is situated about 6 km from Margao City, Goa. It is situated around 40 km from Panaji (Panjim), the capital of Goa, India. The distance of Colva beach from the Benaulim beach where tourists often go to spend some quiet moments is only 2 km. Colva beach of south Goa is the most popular beach in Goa. This picturesque beach is less packed than Anjuna and Calanguate beach. This is the beach where tourists want to only relax, relax and relax. According to popularity, this picturesque beach has the honor of being second after Calanguate beach.
Colva is not one of the traditionally known beaches of Goa. As compared to other popular destinations it is a more recent discovery. But whatever it may be it is 20-km long bliss of virgin white sands, palm fringed,and sun beaches. Undoubtedly, Colva is the most popular beach of Goa. Off lately, the quiet life of Colva
has been punctuated by the number of hotels and buildings that have come up here in quick succession of one another. The annual religious event of Fama of Menino Jesuse (Child Jesus) is held at the church in Colva since the 17th century.
Specaility Of Colva Beach
Many choose to go to the Goa Colva beach to experience a change from the crowded Anjuna or Calangute beaches. Colva beach in Goa is one beach which is usually less crowded. There are many shacks lined up along the Colva beach which offers you delicious Goan cuisine to be washed down by innovative cock-tails. Sit in one of those shack, savour the mouth-watering food while looking at the vast sea in front of you.
Though there are eating joints and hotels around Colva, the Colva beach still manages to keep its serenity in tact. Unlike Anjuna or Calangute, Colva beach in Goa gained popularity only lately. Over the years, many hotels and buildings have sprung from nowhere in and around these beaches in Goa. Colva beach is one of those beaches in this small Indian state of Goa that is developing at a very good pace.
Mahabaleshwar, Queen of all Hill Stations, is situated at an altitude of 1,372m in the heart of Sahyadri Hills in Satara District. The hill station has a legendary past. The name ‘Mahabaleshwar’ is derived from a temple of Lord Mahadev and three Sanskrit words, “Maha” (great), “Bal” (power) and “Ishwar” (God). But, some say that the name ‘Mahabaleshwar’, which simply means very mighty God, seems to have a mythological past.
The British in order to escape the summer heat of the plains and in their search for cooler pleasant climates, were always looking for mountain tops and plateau for recreation and change. So it happened that Col. Lodwick (Late General Sir Peter Lodwick) stationed at Satara, in April 1824 with a contingent of soldiers and Indian guides climbed up the mountain face reaching what is now known as the Lodwick Point. Thus Mahabaleshwar was “Discovered”.
Mahabaleshwar is famous for its scenic beauty and the splendid views of the valleys and the sea, which is quite visible in clear days pony rides on the lanes of Mahabaleshwar, are quite thrilling.
Main Attraction
Mount Malcolm:
It used to be the most famous building in the olden days. it was built in 1829 with magnificient architectural skills. Unfortunately, it has lost a lot of its old charm now.
Catholic Church:
A visit to the old Raman Catholic Holy cross church is worth a detour. although the church is practically falling apart, its stained-glass windows are still a sight to behold. this deserted church is now looked after by a Hindu family.
Mahabaleshwar Club:
The club was built in 1881 and is still flourishing and well-maintained. Only members of the club can stay here. It is very popular for its well-tended roses and lovely jogging track. Christmas is grandly celebrated by loyal members every year. Fortunately, one facility is open to visitors; who can use the golf course whenever they feel like it.
How To Go
Air:
Pune is the nearest airport both for Mahabaleshwar (120 km and Panchgani (98 km)
Train:
For Mahabaleshwar, the nearest railhead is Wathar (62 km) but Pune (120 km) is the convenient railhead.
For Panchgani, the nearest railhead is Wathar (45 km). Mumbai-Wathar via Pune (312 km). Pune-Wathar (120 km)
Road:
From Mumbai via Pune, Mahabaleshwar is 290 km and via Mahad it is 247 km. The State Transport buses ply from Mumbai and Pune to Mahabaleshwar. MTDC operates daily bus services except during the monsoon, between Mumbai-Mahabaleshwar-Mumbai. Also sightseeing tours for Mahabaleshwar and Mahabaleshwar-Pratapgad Fort.
Duration : 7 Nights / 8 Days
Destinations : Periyar – Cochin – Goa – Mumbai
Day 01: Periyar
On arrival at Periyar, you will be taken on a tour of the sanctuary. The night will be spent at Periyar.
Day 02: Periyar – Cochin
From Periyar, you will be taken to Kottayam. Tour the backwaters of this paradise on earth. Take a cruise to Alleppey. After disembarking at Alleppey, you will be driven to Cochin.
Day 03: Cochin
Tour the ancient port city of Cochin, famed for its ancient maritime links to civilizations in Europe, Asia and Africa. Visit the Mattancherry Palace, the St. Francis Church and the Synagogue. 7th century rock – cut cave temples dedicated to Lord Shiva are situated a top a hill on the island. With everlasting memories of the day spend night at hotel.
Day 04: Cochin – Goa
In the morning, you will be taken to the Cochin airport, from where you will take a flight to Goa. Overnight at Goa.
Day 05: Goa
Tour this beach paradise. Spend the day at the beach, explore the old churches, visit the ancient monuments at Goa.
Day 06: Goa – Mumbai
Take a flight to Mumbai from Goa. After arriving at Mumbai, you will be taken to a hotel where you can spend the rest of the day relaxing.
Day 07: Mumbai
Tour this busy western metropolis, the financial capital of India. The Elephanta Caves are the highlight of the Mumbai visit. The Kamla Nehru Park and Hanging Gardens are also a must visit.
Day 08: Departure from Mumbai
You will be taken to the Mumbai airport, from where you will board a flight for home
Day 09 – Hospet
Come with us this morning to explore the beautiful world of Hospet. The touristic importance of this lies in its proximity to Hampi, the site of the medieval Vijaynagar empire, (13 kms) is the most evocative of all the ruins in Karnataka.. Overnight at hotel.
About Shirdi
Location : Ahmednagar district, Maharashatra
Climate : Dry Climate
Temperature : Max – 40 C, Min – 70 C
Languages : Marathi, Hindi and English
Best Time to Visit : June to August (Monsoons)
Special Day : Every Thursday
Attractions : Samadhi Mandir, Guru Sthan, Khandoba Temple
Nearest Airport : Aurangabad (144km)
STD Code : 02423
History Of Shirdi
Shirdi, mostly known for the great saint Shirdi Sai Baba, is situated in the Ahmednagar District of Maharashtra. Shirdi, also known as the Land of Sai, is a popular destination of pilgrims throughout the year. The earlier history of Shirdi is not known but Shirdi shot to fame during the earlier 20th Century.
The name ‘Shirdi’ is interconnected with the life of Shirdi Sai Baba. Shirdi Sai Baba visited Shirdi when he was sixteen years old and stayed there until his death in 1918. Through Shirdi Sai Baba, Shirdi has earned a significant place among the pilgrimage destinations of India.
Shirdi is a small town in Maharashtra that comprises an area of about 3 sq. km. Shirdi is located at a distance of about 297 km from Mumbai, 82 km from Ahmednagar and 80 km from the religious city of Nasik and 16 km from Kopargaon.
The State Government of Maharashtra along with the Shirdi municipal council & Shri Sai Baba Sansthan are planning for infrastructure development in Shirdi, keeping in mind the 100th anniversary of Shri Sai Baba Punyatithi on the day of Dusshera in 2018. Another project for the integrated development of Shirdi and its surrounding villages has given boost to the thriving hospitality industry in the area.
Places Of Interest In Shirdi
Located in Ahmednagar District of Maharashtra, Shirdi is home to many sites that stand testimony to the time when it was the home of Sai Baba, the great saint of the 20th century. Near the Shri Sainath Hospital, Shri Khandoba Mandir is located. 
This temple is revered for its idol of Khandoba, along with those of Banai and Mhalsai. Legend states that when Sai Baba set his foot in Shirdi for the second time, Khandoba was the first place where he was welcomed.
It is believed that when Sai Baba appeared in Shirdi for the first time, as a boy of 16 years, he was first seen at Gurusthan. In Sai Sat-Charitra, Neem (Margosa) tree situated here, finds its reference. A garden where Sai Baba used to go daily, for watering the plants, Lendi Baug contains a Neem tree. Beneath the shade of this tree, Sai Baba used to rest every morning and afternoon.
Samadhi of Abdul Baba contains the mortal remains of the man who used to read Quran to Sai Baba. At a few minutes’ distance from the cottage of Abdul Baba, Maruti Mandir is located. It is believed that Sai Baba had a special devotion for the temple and used to visit it on a regular basis. At the temple, Sai Baba used to conduct satsangs.