Friday 28 March 2014

new delhi

New Delhi, the vibrant capital of India


There is famous saying that goes…One who knows Delhi is a loser and one who doesn't know Delhi is also a loser, which is very true. Because, a person who has known Delhi finds it very difficult to adjust and accept any other place while a person who has not known Delhi at all is simply missing out all the fun that Delhi has to offer. Actually, Delhi is a small mirror that reflects India. Over the millennia, the capital of the world's largest democracy has wooed rulers who just could not resist its charm. The best way to know about the glorious heritage of Delhi is to know itsmonuments, to travel through time back into centuries of history filled with the rise and fall of dynasties that ruled the land.

Location: Delhi also known as New delhi lies in the northern part of India, it is the capital of India.

Delhi Tourist Attractions:
There are a number of attractions for the tourists on New Delhi tour. A must visit is the the India Gate, Red Fort,Qutub Minar and Humayun's Tomb and many more.

Qutab Minar
The Qutab Minar is located in a small village called Mehrauli in South Delhi. It was built by Qutub-ud-din Aibek of the Slave Dynasty, who took possession of Delhi in 1206. It is a red sandstone tower, standing tall at a height of 72.5 metres and is covered with intricate carvings and verses from the holy Qur'an. Qutub-ud-din Aibak began constructing this victory tower as a sign of Muslim domination of Delhi and as a minaret for the Muslim priest, the muezzin, to call the faithful to prayer.
However, only the first storey was completed by Qutb-ud-din. The other storeys were built by his successor Iltutmish. The two circular storeys in white marble were built by Ferozshah Tughlaq in 1368, replacing the original fourth storey. The projected balconies in the tower are supported by exquisite stalactite designs. The tapering tower has pointed and circular flutings on the first storey and star-shaped on the second and third storeys. The bands of calligraphic inscriptions are amazing in perfection with the exquisite stalactite designs seen on the exterior of this tower.

Humayun's Tomb
Humayun's Tomb was built nine years after Humayun's death by his wife Haji Begum. Designed by a Persian architect named Mirak Mirza Ghiyas, and completed in 1565, the edifice was a trendsetter of it's time. It is said that all later Mughal monuments, including the Taj Mahal, followed its design.

Situated in Old Delhi, where the lanes are narrow and always filled with people, Red Fort stands tall and proud-a great witness to history, a mute spectator of the present. The decision for constructing the fort was taken in 1639, when Shahjahan decided to shift his capital to Delhi. Within eight years, Shahjahanabad was completed with the Red Fort-Qila-i-Mubarak (fortunate citadel)-Delhi's seventh fort, ready in all its magnificence to receive the Emperor. Though much has changed now because of large-scale demolitions during the British occupation of the fort, its important structures have survived, though the glory has faded with age but it still looks impressive.

Purana Quila
The Purana Quila is a good example of medieval military architecture. Built by Humayun, the Purana Quila is a monument of bold design, which is strong, straightforward and every inch a fortress. It is different from the well-planned, carefully decorated, and palatial forts of the later Mughal rulers. Purana Quila is also different from the later forts of the Mughals, as it does not have a complex of palaces, administrative and recreational buildings, as is generally found in the forts built later on. The main purpose of this, now-dilapidated fort was its utility, with less emphasis on decoration.

Baha'i Temple (Lotus Temple)
The Baha'i Temple, situated in South Delhi, is shaped like a lotus. Built by the Baha'i community, it offers the visitor a serenity that pervades the temple and its artistic design.

Rashtrapati Bhawan
Rashtrapati Bhawan is architecturally a very impressive building, with the India Gate opposite it. This stretch called the Rajpath is where the Republic Day parade is held. The imposing plan of this area conceived by Lutyens attracts lots of tourists as well as the residents of Delhi who make it a point to visit the place often.

India Gate is a memorial raised in honour of the Indian soldiers martyred during the Afghan war. The green, velvety lawns at India Gate, particularly, are a popular evening and holiday rendezvous for young and old alike, who come packed in cars and enjoy a picnic-dinner in the lawns while children enjoy boating and playing around the place.

Monday 24 March 2014

Ranakpur tourism

Ranakpur Tourism - The City Of Temples


Ranakpur, City Of Temples Is A Jain Pilgrimage Center. A Serene Destination With No Jostling Crowds, Famous For The Marble Jain Temple And Sun Temple, Ranakpur In Rajasthan Is A Favored Tourist Destination.
Ranakpur is among the five holiest places of the Jain religion. Situated on the banks of River Maghai, the Ranakpur Temple is five hundred year old. It has a unique design and style. The main temple of the Ranakpur temple complex is called the Chaumukha Temple (four faced temple) and is dedicated to Adinathji, the first Jain tirthankara.
The stone carvings of this temple are stunning and have to be seen to be believed. It has 29 halls and intricately carved 1,444 columns, with no two columns looking alike. The assembly hall has two massive bells, each weighing a 108 kgs. Their sound echoes in the entire complex. The temple is in extremely good condition. The Ranakpur temple was nominated as one of the top 77 wonders in a contest for the new seven wonders of the world.
Also well worth a visit here is the Sun Temple. Built with Amber stone, its polygonal walls have remarkable carvings of warriors, horses & massive chariots.
The Ranakpur town has a beautiful ambience that is enhanced by its isolation. Situated in a verdant valley in the Aravali mountain range, its climate and serenity make for a relaxing holiday destination. The Royal retreat of Ranakpur is now a heritage hotel. Located just 98 Km away from Udaipur, it can easily be included in travel plans for Udaipur, as well as a destination by itself.

Shopping In Ranakpur


Being a small village, Ranakpur does not offer much for shopping. However, you can go for shopping in Udaipur, which is located around 98 km from Ranakpur. A wide variety of handicrafts such as jewelry, paintings, wood craft, leather craft, blue pottery, semi-precious gems etc are available in the bustling bazaars of Udaipur.
Accommodation In Ranakpur
If you are tilted towards luxury, then stay at the heritage hotel Maharani Bagh in Ranakpur. Offering luxuriously appointed rooms with best of facilities, the hotel was once the abode of the Maharani of Jodhpur. Falling into different categories, there are several other hotels in Ranakpur.

How To Reach


By Air: Dabok airport located near Udaipur is the nearest airport from Ranakpur.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is also at Udaipur, which is well linked to the other major cities of Rajasthan.
By Road:Ranakpur is well connected to Udaipur(90 km from Ranakpur) by road, which in turn is connected to the other major cities of Rajasthan.

Friday 21 March 2014

Mount Abu Tourism


Mount Abu Tourism


Mount Abu, Home To Dilwara Jain Temples, Beauty In White Marble, The Only Hill Station In Rajasthan, Has A National Park And Is Also A Pilgrimage Centre. Mount Abu In Rajasthan Travel Is Also Known For Brahma Kumaris.
Mount Abu, the only hill station not just in the desert state of Rajasthan, but also in entire North- West India, even finds a mention in the 'Puranas', as an abod
e of the Rishi Vashishtha. Mount Abu is famous the world over, for its Dilwara Jain temple complex. It also houses the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, spread over an area of 290 square kilometers in the Aravali mountain range.
At an elevation of 1220 meters, Mount Abu is an excellent holiday spot, offering natural beauty for a peaceful sojourn away from the big cities. Enjoy a boat ride in the beautiful Nakki Lake surrounded by the Aravali mountains when in Mount Abu. Other place to visit are the Gurushikar (a 1722 meters high mountain peak), Toad Rock and the Sunset Point. Or else, just stay put in your hotel and bask in the sunshine and the glorious weather. Mount Abu has a selection of heritage hotels as well as budget hotels.
Mount Abu used to be a pilgrimage centre for followers of Vaishnava and Shaiva sects of Hinduism till the 11th century and has many famous temples dedicated to these. Today however, it is renowned for the Dilwara Jain temples, carved poetry in marble. Mount Abu is also the world headquarter of the Brahma Kumaris, an order of lady renunciates.
Dilwara is not a single temple but a complex of temples with breathtaking carvings and pillars. These temples were built between 11th and 13th centuries. In the central temple of this complex built in the Solanki style of architecture, the most striking feature is the marble pendant in the dome of the porch. It drops from the ceiling like a cluster of half-open lotuses with cups so finely carved that they appear to be transparent.
Shopping In Mount Abu
On your trip to Mount Abu you can take back home some arresting souvenirs such as marble crafts, sandalwood items, sandstone items, leather ware, fabrics,jewelry, metal crafts, Rajasthani bangles and gem stones. There is a Rajasthan Government Handicrafts Center in Mount Abu where you can get these handicrafts at reasonable prices.

Accommodation In Mount Abu

Developed and decorated on royal theme, the heritage hotels in Mount Abu beckon tourists to have a regal experience. A few heritage hotels to be mentioned are Hotel Palanpur Palace, Cama Rajputana Club Resort and Hotel Rising Sun Retreat. A variety of other hotels such as budget hotels are also available.

How To Reach

By Air: Udaipur is the nearest airport located 185 km from Mount Abu.
By Rail: Abu Road is the nearest railway station, which is 28 km from Mount Abu.
By Road: Mount Abu is well connected to the major cities of India by road.

Osian Tourism


Osian Tourism


Travel To Osian (Osiyan) Rajasthan Near Jodhpur, A Religious Centre In Marwar, A Major Jain Pilgrimage Centre, An Oasis In Thar Desert, For The Beautiful Cluster Of Ancient Jain Temples, Camping And Camel Rides.
Osian near Jodhpur is an ancient town and used to be a trading centre of renown from 8th to 12th centuries. An oasis in the Thar desert of Rajasthan, it has a cluster of Hindu and Jain temples built around the 8th century, lending it the status of an important Jain pilgrimage centre. Some of the temples have inscriptions going back to 783 AD. It is believed that the earlier inhabitants of Osian were of Naga extraction, i.e. snake worshippers and were later converted to Jain religion.
The temple complex includes a Sun Temple, a Kali Temple, and the main Jain temple. These temples stand on high terraces. The temples are made of red sandstone and as is typical of the region, have exquisite carvings and beautifully decorated walls. The Sun temple is the oldest in this cluster and its impressive doorway is considered to be among the finest temple doorways in India. Among other temples of note are the Harihara I and III temples and the Vishnu temples III, IV and V.
For the tourists, Osian is an opportunity to not just view some exquisite temple architecture but also experience the desert in utmost comfort with a stay in a luxurious camel camp. Guest can also experience camel rides and enjoy the performing arts of Rajasthan. Osian is easily accessible from Jodhpur, Khimsar and Nagaur and also makes an ideal base camp for safaris towards Jaisalmer. If starting your travel into Rajasthan first with Jaisalmer, then the reverse plan for safaris can be followed.

Pokhran Tourism

Pokhran Tourism

Pokharan Near Jaisalmer Is Called The The Place Of Five Mirages. Fort Pokharan Is Made Of Red Sand Stone And Is A Heritage Hotel.
Pokharan houses a fourteenth century fort made of red sand stone, lying equidistant from Bikaner and Jodhpur on the way to Jaisalmer. The fort has now been converted into a heritage hotel and is a charming place for a relaxing break.
Pokharan means 'The Place Of Five Mirages'. It gets its name from the five salt ranges surrounding the town. The terrain is rocky and sandy. Pokharan once was an important trade hub that exported salt, silk and spices to Persia and other places.
Mughal Emperors Humanyun, Akbar and Aurangzeb have been hosted at the Fort Pokharan that is now a prestigious heritage hotel. A holiday at the Fort Pokharan presents the opportunity to enjoy the hospitality of the current Thakur Nagendra Singh Pokharan and his wife Thakurani Yashwant Kumari Pokharan. The Fort also has a museum that houses the family's collection of armoury, handicrafts, miniature paintings and garments. There is also a Grand Library with several classic and valuable books.
Pokharan finds favour with Damsel Cranes, Houbara Bustard, a rare bird; The Great Indian Bustard, Migratory Bird the Imperial Sand Grouse that travels from Siberia to the desert, the Indian Gazelle and the 'Chinkara' (deer). Take a jeep safari in the dried salt ranges to view the birds and animals. Excursions are also available to view the local terracotta artists at work and also weavers of carpets, blankets and shawls.
A vibrant ten day fair dedicated to Lord Ramdeoji (said to be an incarnation of Lord Krishna) is also a popular occasion with tourists. This fair is held every year in the month of September.
Shopping In Pokharan
Tourists can buy amazing handicrafts from the bazaars of Pokharan such as interior crafts and furniture. The interior crafts available here reflect the royal beauty of Rajasthan. Adorn your house with such rafts to give a new and traditional look to it.
Accommodation In Pokharan
The most talked about accommodation option in Pokharan is the Pokharan Fort, which has been superbly converted into a heritage hotel. Attracting tourists who are inclined towards luxury, they must plan a stay at this heritage hotel while on their tour to Pokharan.
How To Reach
By Air: Jaisalmer(112 km) and Jodhpur(175km) are the nearest airports from Pokharan.
By Rail: There is a railway station at Pokharan.
By Road: Pokharan is easily accessible from all the cities of Rajasthan by road.

Tuesday 18 March 2014

Mandawa Tourism

Mandawa Tourism


Mandawa, An Open Art Gallery, Prime Example Of The Art And Architecture Of Rajasthan, Beautifully Painted Fort And Havelis. Mandawa, Located In The Shekhawati Region, Is Main Tourism Destination In Rajasthan And India.
Mandawa, first established as a remote feudal principality, is a fort town in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. The entire Shekhawati region, and Mandawa in particular, are famous for Frescoes and painted Havelis (mansions), chhatris (cenotaphs) and temples. An extravagant architectural and visual delight, these frescoes depict themes from mythology, history and animal life. The Havelis are living art, as people still reside in them and several have been converted into exquisite hotels and guest houses.
Like other parts of Rajasthan, Mandawa is also replete in history. Mandawa was a trading outpost on the caravan route connecting india with China and the Middle East. The The Mandawa fort was constructed in 1755. The battlements of the fort overlook the entire town and have an enchanting view.
Havelis of Mandawa are magnificent mansions that were built by prosperous merchants of that era. The painting style includes decoration with gold or silver leaf and small mirror. Travel to Mandawa is extremely rewarding for any art lover. Several excursions and sightseeing destinations in the region all make for a satisfying holiday.
Shopping In Mandawa
Mandawa is well known for its rich art and paintings, which are a hit with tourists coming here from far and wide. The royal paintings of Mandawa are made on cloth or paper. Take back home of the handicrafts from Mandawa to create a royal ambiance in your home. Other fabulous handicrafts available here are carved wooden furniture, beautifully decorated chairs, cradles, low tables, utensils, bangles and tie and dye fabric.

Accommodation In Mandawa


Treat yourself with a fascinating accommodation experience at the heritage hotels in Mandawa, which were once the royal abodes of the erstwhile Raja-Maharajas. Castle Mandawa, Desert Resort, Hotel Heritage Mandawa, Jai Niwas Resort, Hotel Rath Mandawa and Welcome Heritage Singhasan Haveli are some of the best accommodation options in Mandawa. Other hotels falling into budget category are also available here.

How To Reach


By Air: The nearest airport is at Jaipur, which is 168 km from Mandawa.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is at Jhunjhunu, which is well connected to the main cities of India like Delhi, Jaipur, Bikaner etc.
By Road: Mandawa is easily accessible from all parts of Rajasthan by road.

Wednesday 12 March 2014

Khimsar Tourism

Khimsar Tourism


Khimsar Near Jodhpur Has A Unique Fort With A Rich History. The Fort Is Now A Heritage Hotel. Khimsar Is A Must Visit Destination Also Because Of The Nagaur Cattle Fair.
Khimsar, a stunning fort constructed in 1523 has a wing still occupied by Thakur Onkar Singh, the 17th direct descendant of Rao Karamsi. Live the royal life and interact with royalty, an exhilarating experience at this beautiful property being managed by the family that owns it for nearly five hundred years now.
Tourists to Khimsar can also look forward to experiencing a living testimony to the glorious past of Rajasthan. The walls and turrets of this fort are battle scarred. A must visit destination if you want to sample the Royal India and Rajasthan, Khimsar is located on the edge of the Thar Desert in Nagaur, halfway between Jodhpur and Bikaner.
Khimsar tourism is a great opportunity to view the rural life in Rajasthan, the Nagaur Cattle Fair that is a major cultural event in the region and feast on the traditional Rajasthan cuisine. Also easily available for an enjoyable holiday are Jeep, Horse and Camel Safaris.

Shopping In Khimsar


The handicrafts available in Khimsar have their own unique feel and charm. Apart from the local shops, there are Government Emporiums where a wide variety of colorful handicrafts are available at reasonable prise. Bargaining is a trend in Khimsar, so hone your bargaining skills before you go for shopping in Khimsar. Carpets, gold and silver jewelery, bandhini textiles, embroidered jutis are the most famous handicrafts available here. If you are interested in antiques, then before  buying them you need permission of the archaeological survey of India. 
Accommodation In Khimsar
Giving a real taste of the rural life of Rajasthan, Khimsar village offers amazing accommodation options. The most famous hotel here is Khimsar Fort, the heritage hotel. Located ideally on a picturesque location at the edge of the Thar Desert, this heritage hotel is simply stunning and so are its facilities and services.
And if you want to feel the fascinating beauty of the desert, then the Sand Dune Resort is the best option. The resort has well furnished huts with sand dunes in the background. How interesting!

How To Reach


By Air: Jodhpur is the nearest airport located 92 km from Khimsar.
By Rail: Jodhpur is the nearest railway station.
By Road: Khimsar is well connected with the other cities of Rajasthan by road.


Tuesday 11 March 2014

Bharatpur Tourism

Bharatpur Tourism


Bharatpur, Reputed For It Keoladeo Ghana National Park Or The Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary Is A Favoured Haunt Of The Siberian Crane, A World Heritage Site Of UNESCO, And Is Very Popular For Bird Watching
Bharatpur, once a well armed princely city with an impregnable fort, lies just 50 km from Agra, the city of Taj Mahal. Now Bharatpur is a bird watchers paradise, known the world over for Keoladeo Ghana National Park, a World Heritage Site of UNESCO and also home to nearly 364 species of birds including the rare Siberian Crane. Noted ornithologist Salim Ali is credited with having brought Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary to the notice of the world.
Bharatpur is named after Bharat, the younger brother of Lord Rama and has recorded history since early 17th century. A majestic state and a force to be reckoned with, Bharatpur under British Rule enjoyed a salute of 17 guns. The name Keoladeo of the National Park is derived from an ancient Hindu temple devoted to Lord Shiva, at the park’s centre. 'Ghana' is Hindi for dense, referring to the thick forest.
Spread over 29 square kilometres, the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is inhabited by indigenous water- birds, migratory water birds and waterside birds, as well as by Sambar, Chital, Nilgai and Boar. It also had one of the best duck - shooting wetlands in the world. Hunting is now banned. Pythons, Spotted Deer, Blue Bull, Jackals, Black Buck, Otters, Fishing Cats and Monitor Lizards are also in abundance.
The sanctuary has forest trails that can be accessed on foot, cycles or covered on cycle rickshaw. The rickshaw pullers are trained by the park management and are very knowledgeable about the birds. There are boat trips also available for bird watching as well as jeep safaris. Remember to bring binoculars with you for bird watching.
There are various other travel attractions as well including the Bharatpur Palace, Bharatpur Government Museum, Lohagarh Fort and Deeg Palace. The Palace on Wheels also covers Bharatpur on its travel through the Rajput State.

Accommodation


Good accommodation options are available in and around Bharatpur. Almost all tourists come to Bharatpur city to visit Bharatpur National Park, which is known the world over for its huge population of birds. There are several wildlife resorts,hotels, forest lodges and cottages in and around the Bharatpur National Park. Some of the best accommodation options are the Bharatpur Forest Lodge, Forest Guest house, Circuit House, Hotel Gol Bagh Palace, Shanti Kutir and Tourist Lodge.

How To Reach Bharatpur


By Air: Agra is the nearest airport located 54 km from Bharatpur. Regular flights from Agra connect it to the major cities of India like Delhi, Bombay, Varanasi, Lucknow etc.
By Rail: The railway station at Bharatpur link it to the other major cities of Rajasthan and to the cities like Delhi, Bombay and Ahmedabad.
By Road: Bharatpur is easily reachable from Agra, Mathura, Delhi, Jaipur etc by road. 
Tourists can move around in the Bharatpur city by auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws and tongas. They can also hire bicycles to explore the city.

Monday 10 March 2014

bundi tourism

Bundi Tourism

Travel To Bundi, An Undiscovered Picturesque Destination In Rajasthan, And Discover Ornate Forts, Beautiful Palaces And Stepwell Reservoirs Called Baoris That Have Amazing Architecture.
An undiscovered town of historical splendour, Bundi has fairy tale like forts and palaces. Its history dates back to 1193 AD to the reign of Prithviraj Chauhan. Located near a narrow gorge, it is encircled by the Aravali mountain range on three sides. Bundi is also a princely town, like most others in Rajasthan. The town is surrounded by a massive wall with four gateposts at four corners.
Bundi finds mention in the works of Rudyard Kipling. To quote from Kipling’s Letters of Marque .... "Jeypore Palace may be called the Versailles of India; Udaipur's House of State is dwarfed by the hills round  it and the spread of the Pichola Lake; Jodhpur's  House of strife, gray towers on red rock, is the work  of giants, but the Palace of Bundi, even in broad daylight, is such a palace as men build for themselves in uneasy dreams-- the work of goblins rather than of men."
The tourist attractions in Bundi include the Bundi Palace, Taragarh Fort or the Star Fort, Nawal Sagar, Nagar Sagar twin step wells and Dhabai Kund with predominantly Rajput architecture shining through the intricately carved brackets and pillars. There are also various excursions to be enjoyed in and around the town.
A hot favourite with the tourists is the Kajli Teej, a festival celebrated with gaiety on the onset of the monsoon. A palanquin carrying the Goddess Teej is carried through the streets. The celebrations coincide with the festival of Janamashtami, Lord Krishna's birthday.
Bundi is an important member of the Rajasthan school of miniature painting. The Bundi school of paintings tells tales of chivalry, valour, romance and sacrifice. It also has plenty of Mughal influence.
Bundi and Kota are twin cities, barely a short distance of 36 kilometres away that takes about 40 minutes of travel. Tourists can easily cover both at the same time, by making a base in one of the two places. Both Bundi and Kota have excellent quality of hotels available including heritage properties. Bundi and Kota are a part of the Hadoti circuit, so called as they were settlements of Hada rulers.
Shopping In Bundi
Retaining their age-old appearance, the bazaars of Bundi offer wonderful handicrafts. Bundi is famous for its cotton carpets, miniature paintings, wooden toys, lac bangles and colorful odhinis (shawls).
How To Reach
By Air: International Airport at Jaipur is the nearest airport located 220 km from Bundi.
By Rail: The railway station at Kota (36 km from Bundi) is well connected to the cities like Chittorgarh, Agra, Jaipur, Banaras and other major cities of India.
By Road: Bundi is well linked to Ajmer, Jaipur, Kota, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and other main cities of the country by road.

Friday 7 March 2014

Bikaner Tourism

Bikaner Tourism


Bikaner, In The Midst Of Thar Desert In Rajasthan, Is A Princely State. Bikaner Is Famous For Its Red Sandstone Forts, Exquisite Architecture Of Its Palaces , Havelis And Camel Safaris.

Bikaner is a marvel of Rajput architecture. It is among the three important cornerstones of the Rajasthan travel circuit and offers a glimpse into the real Rajasthan.
Founded in 1488 AD, Bikaner the erstwhile princely state of the same name, is a shining example of Rajasthan heritage. Bikaner used to be an important trade route linking the country with China and Central Asia.
Bikaner is justifiably famous for its buildings made of red and yellow sandstone, outstanding forts and palaces, and camel safaris. Bikaner is home to the largest Camel research and breeding farm in the world, so it is also called the Camel Country. Bikaner is proud of the riding quality of its camels and its camel festival is very popular among the tourists.
Bikaner city is surrounded by high fortification comprising of a seven km long wall, that encircles the old city and has five entrances, all constructed in the eighteenth century. Famous places to see in Bikaner include the Junagarh Fort. Bound by a moat, it has thirty-seven palaces and pavilions as well as a museum. The Lalgarh Palace, Jain Haveli, Bhandeswari Jain temple and the Gajner wildlife sanctuary are also tourist delights.
Bikaner lends its name to 'Bikaneri Bhujia', a spicy savoury and is also famous for various sweets. The handicrafts, leather products and intricately carved Jharokas (stone screens) of Bikaner are also well known. Usta Art, a style of miniature painting with gold embossing, is a centuries old technique of this region.
The fairs and festivals of Bikaner include the Akshaye Tritya, Karni Mata fair, Kapil Muni fair and Gangaur festival. Bikaner also has shopping to satiate the most jaded shoppers. An enameled form of jewelry called Kundan, uncut stones particularly diamonds set in beautifully crafted gold, lightweight quilts called Nokha, paintings in a signature miniature style and pretty cotton fabric with sanganeri prints, tie & die, all call out for attention.

Accommodation In Bikaner


Offering best of the facilities and warm hospitality, the accommodation options in Bikaner are many in number. The heritage hotels in the city are a major attraction for tourists as they offer a royal stay. Some of the popular Deluxe heritage hotels of Bikaner are  Hotel Lalgarh Palace, Gajner Palace Hotel, Hotel Bhanwar Niwas. The best hotels falling into heritage categories are Hotel Maan Bilas, Hotel Bhairon Vilas and Hotel Jaswant Bhawan. Depending on your need and budget you can also choose from the budget hotels such as Hotel Dhola Maru, Hotel Palace View and Hotel Thar.

How To Reach


By Air: The nearest airport is at Jodhpur, which is located at a distance of 235 km.

By Rail: The railway station at Bikaner connects it with cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kolkata and Bhatinda.

By Road: Bikaner is well connected to almost all the major cities of India by road.

Thursday 6 March 2014

Ajmer Tourism

Ajmer Tourism


Ajmer Is A Famous Symbol Of Unity In Diversity In India. Pushkar Fair And Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti Urs At Ajmer Dargah Are Important For Both Hindu Pilgrimage And Muslim Pilgrims.
Ajmer is a green oasis surrounded by the hills of the Aravali mountain range. Ajmer has a long history and has been a witness to many battles. Once ruled by Prithviraj Chauhan, Ajmer was founded by Raja Ajay Pal Chauhan in the tenth century CE. Ajmer has always been strategically important in the military history of India, having first been sacked by Mahmood of Ghouri and later conquered by the Mughal Emperor Akbar.
For the itinerant tourist, Ajmer offers the most amazing example of the religious diversity and tolerance of the idea that is India. The dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, the Muslim Sufi saint, is revered by both Hindus and Muslims equally. Other tourist attractions here are the Adhai-din-ka-Jhonpra (built in 2 ½ days, Akbar's Palace and Museum and Nasiyan Temple (famous for glass, precious stones and gold and silver work).
Ajmer is also the base for visiting Pushkar, a mere 11 kilometers away. Pushkar is home to the only temple in the world, dedicated to Lord Brahma, reverred as the creator of all creation, in Hindu religion. It also has a beautiful lake. A dip in the lake is considered sacred by Hindus and is thronged by millions in the month of Kartik (October - November).
The pilgrimage is also the occasion for the famous Pushkar Cattle Fair that has become extremely popular among the tourists for its colour, Camel Races, fun and revelry.
Shopping In Ajmer
Tourists can shop for amazing shopping items in the holy city of Ajmer. The famous items one can buy from the markets of Ajmer are antiques, jewelery, bandhini(colorful tie and dye fabrics), embroidered jutis and ittar( a special type of local perfume). The well known shopping destinations of the city are the Puraa bazaar, Kaisarganj Purani Mandi, Madar Gate and Nala Bazaar.
Accommodation In Ajmer
Ajmer has several hotels falling into different categories such as three star, heritage, boutique and budget. Offering courteous service and best of facilities, the heritage hotel Bijay Niwas Palace is a wonderful option here.

How to Reach Ajmer


By Air: Jaipur is the nearest airport located 135 km from Ajmer.

By Rail: Ajmer is well connected to the main cities of Rajasthan and to the main cities of India by rail.

By Road: Ajmer is easily accessible from the major cities of Let's Go! India Tours such as Bikaner, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Agra, New Delhi and Jaisalmer.

Wednesday 5 March 2014

Jaisalmer Tourism


Jaisalmer Tourism

Jaisalmer, The Golden City Is Known For Its Forts, Havelis, Desert Festival, Desert National Park, And It's Sand Dunes! Jaisalmer Is A Favorite Of Haunt Of Celebrities, Including The Hollywood Royalty.
Famous for the Yellow Sandstone, Jaisalmer is called the Golden City, after the 12th Century Fort and numerous Havelis constructed with this stone.
Founded by Rawal Jaisal in 1156 
AD, Jaisalmer in the medieval times was an important part of a trade route connecting India to Egypt, Arabia, Persia, Africa and the West. The Havelis were constructed by the prosperous merchants of those times.
The magnificent fort, a poem in yellow sandstone, seems to rise out of the sand haze and is aptly called the Sonar Kila (the Golden Fort) by the locals. This fort is special because it is a living, bustling place, with most of the town housed within its ramparts. The fort was attacked by Ala-ud-din Khilji, the Emperor of Delhi in the 13th century and besieged for nine years, in his effort to take back the treasure. When the fall of the fort was imminent, the women of the fort committed Jauhar, an act of mass self-immolation, while men donned saffron robes and rode to the battle to face certain death.
It is this history that attracts tourists to Jaisalmer, apart from the Arabian Nights like beauty of its architecture, noticeable for intricately carved Jharokas, the sea of sand dunes, thrilling camel safaris, Jeep night safari and its Desert Festival when the sands come alive with a riot of colours, performing arts, folk music and Rajasthani folk culture.
Jaisalmer was untouched by external influences for a long time, due to its remoteness. It escaped direct conquest by the Mughals and was the last to sign the Instrument of Agreement with the British. Having been largely unaffected by outside influences, the princely culture of Jaisalmer charms the travelers.
Shopping In Jaisalmer
Shopping in a classy city like Jaisalmer is an exhilarating experience as there is so much to buy. Jaisalmer pleases the senses of tourists with beautiful handicrafts such as puppets, embroidered jutis, tablecloths and rugs in mirror work, textiles, camel leather items, stonework, tie and dye fabrics and wooden boxes.
Accommodation In Jaisalmer
Although Jaisalmer offers a variety of accommodation options to cater to budgets of all types of tourists, but the heritage hotels are simply fantastic. You can choose from the two star hotels, three star hotels, budget hotels, heritage hotels and deluxe resorts. Fort Rajwada, Hotel Rang Mahal, Jaisal Castle and Jawahar Niwas Palace are some of the popular heritage hotels in Jaisalmer.



How To Reach
By Air: The airport at Jaisalmer connects the city to New Delhi, Jaipur and Jodhpur by regular flights. However, the airport is operational from September to March only.
By Rail: Jaisalmer can be easily reached from the major cities of India such as Jaipur, Jodhpur,Agra, New Delhi and Mumbai.
By Road: Jaisalmer is well connected to the cities of Rajasthan and major cities of the country by road.

Tuesday 4 March 2014

Jodhpur

Jodhpur Tourism

Jodhpur was founded in the year 1459 A.D. by Rao Jodha, who was part of the Rathore clan and is claimed to be a descendent of Lord Rama. He chose Mandore, a place nine kilometers away from the city, as the capital of Jodhpur. To strengthen his foothold he built a fortress to which additions were done by his successors over the centuries. 

Jodhpur has been ruled by a string of rulers from 15th century A.D. It was under the rule of Rao Gaj Singh from 1516-32, when he allied with Rana Sanga, the leader of the Rajput clans, and fought against the then reigning Mughal emperor Babar. Rana Sanga and Rao Gaj Singh were defeated by Babur, and the dawn of the Mughal Age in India began. Over the next half century, the rulers of Jodhpur joined hands with the Mughals and this relationship flourished. Until the reign of the Mughal prince Aurangzeb, that is. The Mughal prince tried to deceive the then king Maharaja Jaswant Singh by sending him to the frontiers and trying to seize his infant son, but the infant prince was saved by the Maharaja’s loyalist. The Jodhpur prince later formed an alliance with the rulers of Jaipur and Udaipur and eventually overthrew the Mughal and ended their rein over India.

The lifestyle in jodhpur is unusually fascinating with folks wearing , artistically designed lovely costumes. Women folk wear wide gathered skirts and a hip length jacket, with three quarter length sleeves , covering the front and back. The colorful turbans worn by the men folk add more color to the city . It was from here that the popularity worn baggy - tight , horse riding trousers- ‘ Jodhpurs’ took their name. Shopping in Jodhpur bazaars is a heady experience with a colorful display of the rich collection of exquisite handicrafts. The tie and dye fabric, embroidered ‘jutis’ or slippers in suede, camel skin, velvet add more colors to the city. Countless festivities celebrate the rich past and culture of the princely state. The Marwar Festival held annually is one such spectacular bonanza. 

Place to see
Mehrangarh Fort
Situated on a steep hill, Mehrangarh fort is one of the largest forts in India. The beauty and the grandeur of numerous palaces in the fort narrates a saga of hard sandstones yielding to the chisels of skilled Jodhpuri sculptures. 

Umaid Bhawan Palace
The only palace built in 20th century under the famine relief programme, has now been converted into a hotel with some parts being retained as a museum.

Jaswant Thada
The 19th century royal cenotaph is built in white marble, in commemoration of Maharaja Jaswant Singh. Some rare portraits of the rulers of Jodhpur are also displayed here. 

Lakes & Places
Balsamand Lake & Palace
This picturesque artificial lake is 7 kms from the main city. Summer palaces along the embankment and a bird sanctuary has made it a picnic spot.

Sardar Samand Lake and Palace
Rajasthani village life and vibrant cultural colours come alive as you drive along the 55 kms stretch. The monotony of the drive is broken by Chinkaras and Black Bucks who frisk pass the road. 

Jodhpur Excursions
One places which you can visit around Jodhpur is Osian, which is the largest center of Jain and Hindu temples in Rajasthan. It is about fifty kilometers from Jodhpur. Mahamandir is another place of interest near Jodhpur. It was built in 1812 and is a small walled town clustered around a one-hundred pillared Shiva temple. Another nearby excursion is to Balsamund Lake and palace, which is around seven kilometers from Jodhpur.

Jodhpur Climate
The climate of Jodhpur is characterized by extreme heat in summer and cold in winter, which is typical of a desert region. The temperature ranges from 50°C in summer to 1°C in winters. Rains are scarce, as the rainy period is limited to a maximum of a couple of weeks in the year. Jodhpur is also known for its huge sandstorms, which is somewhat of an attraction for people from other regions of the country and tourists in general. 

Jodhpur Cuisine
Jodhpur cuisine is mouth watering and delicious, and there are many restaurants where you can try the fare. Jodhpur is especially famous for recipes like Dal, Bati, and Churma, kair-sangri and panchkuta. It is a must for visitors to at least taste Jodhpur food, or they would be missing something exquisite. Dal, Bati, and Churma is a combination of Dal, which is a mixture of 5 different pulses cooked together, and bati bread, which is kneaded flour baked and then soaked in ghee. Churma is a sweet ladoo, a desert and for sure a delicacy of the place. Jodhpur cuisine is also quite spicy; Mirchi vade and Pyaz Ki Kachori are other items which should not be missed by the foodies. 

How to get there?
Air
Jodhpur has its own airport and regular flight services conect the city with other major cities in and around Rajasthan.

Rail
The city is also well connected by the railway lines and trains are available for other major cities in the country from here. The 'Palace on Wheels' also visits this city of royal splendour. 

Road
The state transport has bus services from other cities of the state and some services are interstate too.

Friday 28 February 2014

travel facts

What are the best items to shop for in India?
Shop for wood carvings, fabrics, brassware, copperware, bronzes, silver, fossils and crystals, sandalwood items, paper-mache, paintings and prints, dhurri rugs, dolls, tea, saffron, batiks, carpets, and gems (if you know what to look for).
Bargaining is the norm. Beware of copycat brand-name items and animal products such as skins and horns- they are illegal. And remember to shop at the local markets!
What is the weather like in India?

When traveling to India, November thru March is the best time to visit. Temps in the north are between 40-60 F and temps in the south are between 65-85 F. March-June is dry and very, very hot. June-October is monsoon time. When traveling to the mountain region, the months of March, April, October and November are ideal.

Are there any health precautions I should take?

According to the Center for Disease Control, all areas lower than 2,000 meters (6,561 feet), including cities are considered high-risk areas for malaria. The cities of Delhi and Bombay are also risk areas. Consult your physician about inoculations and the use of antimalarial drugs.

What is the currency?

In India, the currency is the rupee. Please review the current exchange rate on the rupee.

Thursday 27 February 2014

rajasthan - the magical land


RAJASTHAN-THE MAGICAL LAND


Rajasthan, the magical land set amidst the desolate desert beauty, is a perfect paradise for travelers and ultimate destination not to be missed while visiting India, Nepal and Sri Lanka. It offers an experience you will cherish for a lifetime. 
The land synonymous with romance and chivalry is immensely rich in culture, history and natural beauty. Always teeming with colour, joy and friendliness.
Everything about Rajasthan fascinates – from miles of golden stretches of sand to the kaleidoscope of magnificent forts, opulent palaces and marvelous havelis, each a splendid architectural creation having a legend of its own.
Beautiful temples dates back over centuries dot the entire state, making it a popular pilgrim land for people from many faiths.
Even for wildlife enthusiasts, the state is an excellent retreat with its arid zone of the Thar Desert and the dry deciduous forests that offers rich variety of flora and fauna. Some of the finest national parks and sanctuaries are here.
Rajasthan is also known for exquisite miniature paintings and frescoes, not forgetting the incredible fabulous Rajasthani fabrics and jewellery along with a wide range of beautiful handicrafts.
Rajasthan is well connected by air, rail and road with all the major cities of the country. Besides some charter flights landing at Jaipur, Indian Airlines has introduced direct international flights from Jaipur to Dubai, Bangkok and Singapore. 
About Rajasthan : 
Rajasthan is a land of vibrant colours, known for its valiance and chivalry. It has an unusual diversity in all its forms- people, customs, culture, costumes, music, manners, dialects, cuisine and physiographic. The land is endowed with invincible forts, magnificent palace havelis, rich culture and heritage, beauty and natural resources. 
It is a land rich in music, Dance, Art & Craft and Adventure, a land that never ceases to intrigue & enchant. The inherent buoyancy and dryness of the land is evident in every aspect of the lifestyle of the people, and also, in the colorful turbans and soup-strainer moustaches sported by the Men and bright mirrored skirts and silver jewellery worn by the women. This abode of kings is one of the most exotic locales for tourist world over. 
Rajasthan has not only survived in all its ethnicity but owes its charisma and colour to its enduring traditional way of life. It is one of the 26 states that, along with seven union territories, form the republic of India. So rich is the history of the land that every roadside village has its own tales of valour and sacrifice, the winds sing them and the sands shift to spread them. India is Spicy, but then, what is life after all without a little bit of spice, India provides abundant scope to explore it. 
The panoramic outlook of the state is simply mesmerizing, with lofty hills of Aravali's - one of the oldest mountain ranges of the world and the golden sand dunes of the Great Indian Desert - the only desert of the sub-continent. No other region in the country is a conglomeration of so many paradoxes. It is a land of superlatives, everything over here is breathtakingly beautiful, impressive and fascinating!

Tuesday 25 February 2014

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Monday 24 February 2014

Indian culture

Indian Culture



Culture is a symbolic, continuous, cumulative and progressive process. In the words of Green, culture means "the socially transmitted system of idealized ways of knowledge, practice and beliefs along with the artifacts that knowledge and practices produce and maintain as they change times."
Culture is the short-hand version of the rules that guide the way of life of people. It is the common learned way of life shared by members of a society. In a word, culture is the expression of finer aspects of the life style of a group. As Johann Von Herder says, "the culture of a people is the blood of its being."
In the famous words of Arnold J.Toynbee, "civilization is a movement - not a condition, a voyage and not a harbour." This is true especially in the context of India. Though one of the oldest of ancient civilizations, India is the only example of a continuous process of the growth and evolution of its ancient civilization. In a word, Indian civilization is a continuum and, therefore, unique. As such, the culture of India has always been integral in its approach. '
It has never been one-sided. One of the greatest scholars on the culture of India, Basham has this to say on the subject,".... in no other part of the ancient world were the relations of man and man, and of man and the state, so fair and humane. In no other early civilization were slaves so few in number, and in no other ancient lawbook are their rights so well protected as in the Arthasastra. India was a cheerful land, whose people, each finding a niche in a complex and slowly evolving social system, reached a higher level of kindliness and gentleness in their mutual relationships than any other nation of antiquity."

Saturday 22 February 2014

Friday 21 February 2014

india

Travel and Tourism in India 



India is one of the oldest countries in the world, full of charming and attractive historical sites and challenging and mysterious stories that were laid in the foundation of Indian cities, regions and even buildings. India is the country of contrasts from architectural and cultural perspectives. If you want to amuse yourself with food, culture, language, clothing and various traditions, India is the right place for you to visit. With the population of over one billion people, India is very multicultural and each of the twenty eight states in the country has its unique identity that determines and directs its history.
India is the motherland of such famous people as Mahatma Ghandi, Siddhartha, Tata and the others. Everybody knows and heard the names of Taj Mahal, Mumbai, Great Indian Himalayas and Bengal Tiger, which became the icons of India tourism. For those who prefer beach and sun tourism India is ready to offer famous Goa and Kerala Beaches with more than hundred kilometres long sea line.
For visitors who prefer something exotic, India is opening the doors of the Khajuraho temples with its magnificent arts of early medieval period. Constructed back in the ninth and tenth centuries, these buildings keep the history of India and will not leave even the most demanding tourist uninterested.
Cultural India is for those who love to dive into local traditions and celebrations to feel the real country’s spirit. Goa carnival, Varanasi Ghats and Pushkar Fair are the places that you cannot miss if you are in search of spiritual and cultural tourism. There is no other country that is able to…

Thursday 20 February 2014

Wednesday 19 February 2014

hawa mahal

HAWA MAHAL,JAIPUR


The renowned 'Palace Of The Winds', or Hawa Mahal, is one of the prominent tourist attractions in Jaipur city. Located in the heart of Jaipur, this beautiful five-storey palace was constructed in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh who belonged to Kachhwaha Rajput dynasty. The main architect of this palace built of red and pink sandstone, is Lal Chand Ustad and the palace is believed to have been constructed in the form of the crown of Krishna, the Hindu god. Considered as an embodiment of Rajputana architecture, the main highlight of Hawa Mahal is its pyramid shape and its 953 windows or 'Jharokhas' which are decorated with intricate designs. The main intention behind the construction of the Mahal was to facilitate the royal women and provide them a view of everyday life through the windows, as they never appeared in public. Read further to know more about Hawa Mahal, its history, architecture and its visiting hours.

Tuesday 18 February 2014

TAJ MAHAL

TAJ MAHAL

Taj Mahal is regarded as one of the eight wonders of the world, and some Western historians have noted that it’s architectural beauty has never been surpassed.  The Taj Mahal is the most beautiful monument built by the Mughals, the Muslim rulers of India.  Taj Mahal is built entirely of white marble.  Its stunning architectural beauty is beyond adequate description, particularly at dawn and sunset.  The Taj seems to glow in the light of the full moon.  On a foggy morning, the visitors experience the Taj Mahal as if suspended when viewed from across the Jamuna River.
A Muslim, Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his dear wife and queen built the Taj Mahal at Agra, India.  The society at the time was very productive and created a lot of success and hope for the Indians there.  When Mumtaz Mahal was still alive, she extracted four promises from the emperor:  first, that he build the Taj Mahal; second, that he should marry again; third, that he should be kind to their children; and fourth, that he visit the tomb on her death anniversary.  He kept the 1st and 2nd promises.  The construction began in 1631.  The expert craftsman from Delhi, Qannauj, Lahore, and Multan were employed. They constructed the monument over a period of twenty-two years, with employment of 20,000 workers.  The total amount spent on the beautiful and sacred monument was 32 million rupees.
The problems and issues of the Taj Mahal was very difficult back then.  Actually, it was two main issues, but they were very burdensome.  The only issue was the death of his wife and getting the beautiful monument done.  The lengthy wait and the overcoming of her death was too much for Shah Jahan, but he had promised to his loving wife that he would eventually complete the sacred monument in her name.
Everyone has their own favorite time to see the Taj Mahal.  Crowds will distract you from the cool, serene presence of this flawless monument.  The best way is to try arriving just as it opens or as it is about to close.  A few minutes alone in the perpetually echoing inner sanctum will reward you far more than several hours spent on a guided tour.  The sensuously curving lines of the temple of love demand to be savored without interruption, then the presence of the building itself will impart its own message.
The event has triggered being part of the wonders of the world.  It started to attract many people from other cultures because of its beauty and the mystery behind it.  It intrigues people on how one person designs a monument for his wife and tries to accomplish the promises she gave before she had died.  People wonder how that much love from one man to his wife can show that there is always hope in a relationship even after the significant other dies.
Negative events were not really triggered in this situation.  In this case, Mumtaz Mahal was in love with her husband, Shah Jahan.  She wanted to have the love continue and that is why she had given those four promises to help realize that the love can still grow strong.  The monument symbolizes the love that Shah Jahan had for his deceased wife, Mumtaz.  Mumtaz wanted this monument more than anything.  She wanted to be remembered with a monument, which symbolizes “eternal love.”
As a tribute to a beautiful woman and as a monument for enduring love, the Taj Mahal reveals its subtleties when one visits it without being in a hurry.  The rectangular base of the Taj Mahal is in itself symbolic of the different sides from which to view a beautiful woman.  The main gate is like a veil to a woman’s face that should be lifted delicately, gently, and without haste on the wedding night.  In my tradition, the veil is lifted gently to reveal the beauty of the bride.  As one stands inside the main gate of the Taj Mahal, his eyes are directed to an arch that frames the Taj Mahal.  The dome is made of white marble and the background works its magic colors.  The colors change at different hours of the day.  It sparkles in the moonlight when the light hits the white marble and catches the glow of the moon.  The reflections of light seem to depict the different moods of the woman.
The tombs of Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal are actually located in a shadowy burial crypt.  At ground level, in the very center of the building is the cenotaph dedicated to Mumtaz.  If you sing in the inner shrine of the monument, the notes will float upwards in a flow of music of the spheres.  This event was very influential in the time of its occurrence because looking at this building, you will see how much love there is and how strong this love stood.  It represents so much to many of the visitors on different levels.
It has really affected my life because I feel very proud of my Indian heritage and how I can go to my homeland and have the chance to see a monument I can be very proud of.  I’m so happy that India has one of the great wonders that I can admire and tell about to others.  I hope to gain a lot of knowledge about the Taj Mahal whenever I go there.  Just to experience it in person and to admire the beauty and artistic views would be amazing.
I think what inspired me the most was the strong love between Shah and Mumtaz.  To have such a love would make such a relationship grow and blossom solidly.  I just hope in my life that I can find the right person and experience the love and solid trust that Shah and Mumtaz had between them.
This event will be important to me in an hundred years because this is a part of my Indian background.  I’m going to teach this story to my children and I hope it will be passed on down throughout the coming generations.  It is just so interesting on how it all came together and how unique it is today.
Under the full moon, the pearly white exterior is shrouded in mystery.  That would be love, the greatest mystery of all.  In India, take the time you will be spending there to learn and gain new perspectives.  Someday you can use the stuff that you have learned and apply it to your daily relationship and acquire the “eternal love” that Shah and Mumtaz created.