Archive for the ‘Maharashtra’ 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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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.
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.
Lonavala is a popular hill station and a municipal council situated in Pune District, Maharashtra. The city is located 64 km from Pune city and 96 km from Mumbai. It lies 622 m above sea level in the Sahyadri Ranges, which separate the Deccan Plateau and the Konkan Coast.
The hill station is spread over an area of 38 square km. The name of the city is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Lonavali’ which refers to a ‘group of caves’. The name was given to the place due to the presence of many caves in and around the city.
The city is popular for its sweet Chikki. It also connects Mumbai and Pune via rail. The best time to visit Lonavala is during the monsoon, between October and May, when the scenic spots become lush green and the waterfalls are in full flow. The place has valleys, hills, waterfalls and lush greenery due to which it is also called the ‘Jewel of Sahyadri’.
About the Place
Lord Elphinstone, who was the Governor of the Bombay Presidency, discovered the city of Lonavala along with Khandala in 1871.The present day Lonavala was a part of the Yadava Dynasty, which was taken over by the Mughals, who ruled the region for a long time.
There is also an important role of the Malva Warriors and the forts of the city in the history of the Maratha and Peshwa Empires. Lonavala was also the main stay of the Malva Warriors, who were regarded as the fiercest Hindu fighting clan. The city has also witnessed great warriors like Sardar Dabhade, who was the commandant of the Peshwa armies. Later, the nearby villages were used as the battleground for many battles between regional Indian rulers and British armies.
The Governor of Bombay favoured Lonavala in 1811 due to its large forest cover. This forest cover made the city a vacation and hunting spot by the British administrators, which lead to its reputation as a tourist destination.
The Tungi Fort of Lonavala is one of its famous tourist spots. Malik Ahmed founded the fort near the village of Kajrat. This fort is known for its natural strength. Apart from this fort, there are also many caves present around the city namely Karla Caves, Bhaja Caves and the Bedsa Caves.
One of the most prized possessions of the country, the Gateway of India is situated on the waterfront in South Mumbai. Anyone coming to Mumbai from this harbor is greeted by the huge monument, which stands as a testimony to the imperial bygone era of the city. As you pass through the gate from the city side, the first scene that looms into view is that of the waterfront of South Mumbai. A popular harbor, it is used by a large number of people for traveling to the other parts of Bombay, especially the Elephanta Island.
The architecture of the Gateway of India comprises of a huge arch, which is approximately 26 m in height. The entire structure has been made by using yellow basalt and reinforced concrete. It has mainly been constructed as per the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. One can also find the features of the Muslim architectural styles that were very much popular in Gujarat in the 16th century. The top of the monument stands adorned with a central dome, which has a diameter of 15 m. The construction of the Gateway of India led to the displacement of the harbor and it had to be completely realigned. The monument was constructed in the early 20th century, at the astronomical price of 21 lakh rupees. The major burden of the cost was undertaken by the Government of India. However, even the 21 lakh rupees could not prove sufficient and the idea of constructing an approach road from the monument had to be discarded. The construction work of Gateway of India was undertaken by Gammon India Limited, established by J C Gammon.
History
Built in the Indo-saracenic style, the Gateway of India is meant to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Bombay, prior to the Darbar in Delhi in December 1911. The foundation stone was laid on March 31, 1911 and George Wittet’s final design sanctioned in August 1914. Between 1915 and 1919 work proceeded on reclamations at Apollo Pier for the land on which the gateway and the new sea wall would be built. The foundations were completed in 1920.
The Gateway is built from yellow Kharodi basalt and reinforced concrete. The central dome is 48 feet in diameter and 83 feet above ground at its highest point. The whole harbour front was realigned in order to come in line with a planned esplanade which would sweep down to the centre of the town. The cost of the construction was Rs. 21 lakhs, borne mainly by the Government of India. For lack of funds, the approach road was never built, and the Gateway now stands at an angle to the road leading up to it.
Main Attractions
Behind the arch, there are steps leading down to the water. Here, one can get onto one of the bobbing little motor launches, for a short cruise through Mumbai’s splendid natural harbour. One can buy tickets for a short cruise on the motor launches from here.
Near the Gateway of India is Taj Mahal Hotel, one of the most famous and luxurious hotels in India. Close by are the statues of the Maratha leader Shivaji astride his horse and of Swami Vivekananda, that add to the charm of this monument.
Arts, aristocracy and graciousness. A legacy of velour combined with a culture steeped in spiritualism, education and modernism. Kolhapur with its myriad images emerges as a city with a multifaceted persona and a rich cultural, historical and mythical past. Ancient texts such as the Padmapurana and the Skandapurana speak in glowing terms of Karveer or Dakshin Kashi which is, in fact modern-day Kolhapur on the banks of river Panchaganga nestling among the Sahyadri ranges.
A journey through the past reveals that Kolhapur has lived through the regimes of various rulers from the mythical past to the modern age. The Hindu era lasted till 1347, followed by the Muslim rule which was from 1347-1700. The magnificent temples of Kolhapur were built during the glorious periods of the Satavahana kings and the Shilaharas. The Marathas controlled this area from 1700 to 1849. In 1849, the British took over and Chhatrapati Sahu Maharaj was installed as the ruler of Kolhapur.
Chhatrapati Sahu Maharaj’s reign lent a progressive spirit to the city and he extended his patronage to theater, films, music, painting, sculpture, wrestling and crafts. As result, the city has a rich cultural ethos. In 1945, archaeological excavations close to a hill named Brahmagiri on the banks of the river Panchaganga revealed the existence of an ancient town dating back to the Roman times. Today, Kolhapur combines its artistic past with a dynamic present and is a modern, industrial city.
Places To Visit
Mahalaxmi Temple
The Shri Mahalakshmi Temple of Kolhapur in Maharashtra India is one of the Shakti Peethas listed in various puranas of Hinduism. The temple belongs architecturally to the Chalukya empire and may have been first built circa 700 AD. Mounted on a stone platform the image of the four armed and crowned goddess is made of gemstone and weighs about 40 kilograms. A stone lion the vahana of the goddess stands behind the statue. The crown contains an image of the Sheshnag the serpent of Vishnu. In Her four hands the deity of Mahalakshmi holds objects of symbolic value. Kolhapur Mahalakshmi Temple is surrounded by about 35 temples. Navratra is the grand annual festival of this temple.
Narasimha Wadi
Narsobawadi is a small village located close to Kolhapur, which attracts tourists in quite a large number. It is popularly know as “Narsobachi Wadi”. Narasimha Wadi has a great archaeological significance and is situated at the confluence of river Krishna and Panchganga.
Narsobachiwadi Temple is at Narsobachi Wadi, located about 22 km away from Sangli city and 45 km from Kolhapur in Maharashtra. The temple is devoted to Lord Dattatreya, an incarnation of Brahma, Vishnu and ShivaNarsobachiwadi Temple is at Narsobachi Wadi, located about 22 km away from Sangli city and 45 km from Kolhapur in Maharashtra. The temple is devoted to Lord Dattatreya, an incarnation of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.
Chhatrapati Shahu Museum
This is an ancient building on the Bhavani Mandap-Kasaba Bavda Road. It was constructed during 1877-1884. Being an excellent specimen of architecture build in black, polished stone, it has been an attraction for the tourists. It has extensive premises with a beautiful garden, fountain and wresting ground. The whole building is eight-angled and has a tower in the middle. The clock on it fixed in 1877. At separate distance there are small towers. On every glass are painted the events in Shivaji’s life. There is zoo and a ground lake. Even today, it is the residence of Shreemant Shahu Maharaj.
Shalini Palace
Shalini Palace is located very close to the Rankala lake.It was built in 1931-1934 and cost approx 8.00 lacs to build. Surrounded by tall palm trees and lush green lawns this palace offers visitors a magnificient place of interest in kolhapur which at the same time provides a wonderful backdrop to the lake. The palace was constructed with italian marble and black stone. The main door has Belgium glass and the inscription work on it reflects the majesty of the Royal family of kolhapur. The columns made of black stone as well as the entrance porch is a architectural masterpiece. In 1987 this palace was converted into the only palace hotel in the state. You can enjoy the reflection of the palace on a moonlit night on the Rankala lake,as well as its serene beauty during sunset.
Aurangabad city serves as the headquarters of the district of the same name. Located on the right bank of the Kham River, the city is visited by a large number of tourists every year. One of the major attractions of Aurangabad is that it serves as the gateway to the exotic caves of Ajanta and Ellora, two of the World Heritage Sites in Maharashtra. Apart from that, there are a number of other tourist places near the city that make excellent excursions from it. These excursion places, combined with the attractions of the Aurangabad city itself, make it so popular amongst visitors. Given below is information on the major excursions from Aurangabad.
Places Of Attractions
Bibi Ka Maqbara
Bibi Ka Maqbara is situated 5 km away from Aurangabad. Aurangazeb’s son, Prince Azam Shah built it in 1678 in the memory of his mother Begum Rabia Durani. This mausoleum is a replica of the famous Taj Mahal. Despite the layout and surrounding of the tomb is very much similar to Taj Mahal, somehow the architecture fails to produce the magic of the Taj. Hence, it is considered to be a poor imitation of the Taj Mahal.
Amjhar Sharif
Amjhar Sharif bears religious significance for being an important Islamic pilgrimage centre of Aurangabad. Located about 10 km away from Panchrukhia, on the Daudnagar-Gaya Road, Amjhar Sharif is abode of an ancient mazaar (grave) of a Muslim saint – Hazrat Saiyadana Mohammad Jilani Amjhari Quadri. Thousands of Muslims visit this pilgrimage center on the anniversary of the great saint, which is held in the first week of June. The holy hair of the saint is put on display on the occassion.
Aurangabad Caves
Aurangabad caves are just a few kilometers away from the famous monument of Bibi Ka Maqbara. These caves are believed to be excavated between 2nd and 6th century AD. Aurangabad caves are carved out of the hillside and are a fine piece of architecture. A major chunk of the caves in Aurangabad are Viharas. Total number of caves is twelve; out of which cave number 3 and 7 are the most fascinating ones. Cave number 1 to 5 are in the western group and caves from 6 to 10 are in the eastern group. Tantric influences are noticeable in Aurangabad caves.
Nasik ranks among the popular tourist spots in India. It is also a well known pilgrimage spot and hundreds of pilgrims come here every year. The tourist places in Nasik are a must see attraction during a trip to this great city.
Nasik is located on the banks of the Godavari River. It is a part of the state of Maharashtra in India. The capital city of Mumbai is also close by.
The ideal time for coming to Nasik is between the months of October and February. The weather in Nasik is mainly tropical and as such this period is the best to come for a trip. The summer months are hot and humid while the winter months are cool and mild. Rainfall ranges between moderate and high.
Tourist Attractions
Shirdi
122 kms from Nashik is the abode of one of Maharashtra’s most revered saint, Sai Baba of Shirdi. Popularly known as the ‘Child of God’, Sai Baba preached tolerance towards all religions and the message of universal brotherhood.
Every activity at Shirdi revolves around the vast temple complex dedicated to Sai Baba. Devotees start queuing up in the early hours of dawn to catch a glimpse and seek the blessings of the life-size statue of Sai Baba. Thursday is marked by special pujas and darshan of the Sai Baba statue.
There are other places of interest that devotees can visit as well including Dwarkamani Mosque where the Baba meditated and slept on alternate nights. Near the mosque, in a corridor is the dhani or eternal flame that burns day and night. Other places of importance are the Gurusthan, the Kandoba Temple, Shani Mandir, Narsimha Mandir, Changdev Maharaj Samadhi and the Sakori Ashram.
Jain Mandir
A huge newly built temple complex dedicated to Jain saints, Jain Mandir is located at Vilhouli, Nasik. This pretty three-storied shrine presents a different architectural grandeur than that of the other temples. Shree Dharmachakra Prabhav Tirth, which is popularly called as Jain Mandir is constructed with white marble and pink sand.
The ground floor of these eloquent building houses a Pravachan Hall, where sermons and meditations take place “Choumukhji” is placed in the first floor and the third floor is reserved for “Ashtapadji”. One among the deities of this Mandir is the 24th thirthankara of the Jains. This amazing deity weighs 12 ton and it is made up of Panchdhatu. Situated in a serene ambience, all the idols enshrined in this temple adorns a serious outlook.
Panchavati
All religious activities in Nasik are centered around the majestic Godavri River, especially on its Northern banks. Considered as the most holy spot, Panchavati is believed to be a shelter to Lord Ram, Lakshman, and Sita during their exile.
This sacred spot gets its name from the five banyan trees that stand by the riverside. Believed to be a part of the Dandakaranya Forest, Panchavadi is the right option to begin the tour. Since this place acquire a prominent place in the epic, people frequent here to take a holy dip so that they will be cleansed from their sins.
Ganga Ghat
One of the famous holy places in India, Nask is a hub of religious activities, which are centered around the sacred banks of the Godaveri River.The banks of this holy river is wizened with well maintained ghats and numerous temples. These bathing ghats reverberate with holy recites of people who gathers there to offer the last rituals of their beloved ones. Ganga bathing ghat whose waters are presumed to cleanse the sins, offers an awe-inspiring view to the spectator.
The majestic Ganga ghat, looks incredibly stunning in the twilight, when the holy waters of the sacred rive is enlighten with multitude of oil lamps and hovers of flowers.