Himachal Pradesh Tourism

Himachal Pradesh Toursim

The mountain state of Himachal Pradesh is incredibly beautiful with its lush green valleys, fierce rocky ravine nines, flowering meadows and the mysterious snow-clad mountains. Himachal Pradesh people are simple, lively and good-natured. Life moves at a serene pace in the state, far from the travails of the modem age. The simple rhythm, revolving around the tending fields, flocks and orchards, is punctuated by the celebration of festivals and fairs that bring alive colourful traditions of music and dance. For the visitors there are exquisite locations for a relaxing holiday and marvelous opportu­nities for trekking, mountaineering, white river rafting, Para sailing and angling. Geographical diversity offers a whole range of adventure activities such as golf, trekking, heli – skiing, camping, ice-skating, vehicle safari, mountaineering and rock climbing.

History

The earliest known inhabitants of the region were tribal called Dasas. Later Aryans came and they assimilated three tribes. In the later centuries, the hill chieftains accepted the suzerainty of the Mauryan Empire, the Kushans, the Guptas and Kanuaj rulers. During the Mughal period, the Rajas of the hill State made some mutually agreed arrangements, which governed their relations. In the 19th century, Ranjit Singh of Punjab annexed many of the States. When the British came, they defeated Gorkhas and entered into treaties with some Rajas and annexed the kingdom of others. This situation persisted till 1947. After independence, 30 princely States of the area were united and the present Himachal Pradesh was formed on April IS, 1948. With the reorganization of Punjab on November I, 1966 certain areas belonging to it were also included in Himachal Pradesh. On January 25, 1971 Himachal Pradesh was made a full-fledged State.
Airports: Bhuntar (Kullu Valley), Gaggal (Kangra), Jubbarhatti (Shimla).

Important Hill Resorts

Chail,
Chamba
Dalhousie
Dharamshala
Kasauli
Kullu
Mamali
Shimla


Shimla

Shimla, capital of the State, came into prominence nearly a century ago as the summer capital of the British Raj.Shimla is named after its patron goddess Shamla Devi, a manifestation of Kali.Shimla’s salubrious climate, easy accessibility and numerous attractions have made it one of the most popular hill station in northern India. The splendid views of the snow-clad ranges of the Himalayas, fine walk through oaks and flowering rhododendron, enchanting resorts with easy reach, golf at Naldehra, skiing at Kufri and Narkanda, make Shimla attractive throughout the year.

Place of Interest
(1) The Mall (2) Viceregal Lodge (3) Himachal State Museum (4) Jakhoo Hills (5) Sanjauli (6) Chadwick Falls (7) Annandale (8) The Glen (9) Summer Hills.

Kullu

Kullu, located on the banks of the Beas River was once known as Kulanthpitha – the end of the habitable world. Beyond its perimeter loomed the magnificent Himalayas, and by the Beas sprawled the ‘Silver Valley’ came to be accessible only after independence. Kullu valley is the meeting point of several trek routes, maily those from Chanderkhani Pass to Malana, over the Jalori Pass or Bashleo Pass to Shimla and over the Pin Parvati Pass to Sarahan.The Magnificent Beas also offers ample opportunities for some exciting white river rafting.

Manali

Situated at the northern end of the Kullu Valley, Manali has spectacular views of snow capped peaks and wooded slopes along the banks of the Beas.It is the main holiday destination in the entire valley. The Manali market is crowded with myriads of interesting shops selling Tibetian carpets and crafts. Manali is a popular base for trekking and mountaineering in summer and skiing in winter.

Spiti

Spiti is linked by road with Shimla and Manali. A high altitude cold desert, Spiti is out of the land of fairy tales and fantasies. Small village of box-like houses along the river valleys, it is blanketed with snow and temperature falls below zero except during the three months of summer. Sipti is influenced by Buddhism and nearly 30 monasteries guard a rich cultural heritage. SUMOD is entry point into Spiti from Kinnur district. TABO, close to Sumod has a thousand year old Tabo Gompa, established by the legendary Rinchen Tsangpo. This Gompa is considered important next to the Tholing Gompa in Tibet and has priceless collection of manuscripts and thangkas. SHCHICHILING 50 km from Sumado is famous for Dhankar Monastery built on a high rugged hillside and has interesting murals and stuccos.

ATTERGU, a small village along the N.H.22 has another important Gompa at Kungri. KUNZAM PASS (4,590 m) is the other entry point into Spiti traversing through Lahul. KAZA is noted for its historic Kyi Gompa. Established in the 14'h century AD, it has breathtaking murals and valuable collection of 'Kangyur' -ancient Buddhist texts. Over 200 monks reside at Kyi.



Dharamshala

Is the main hill station in the, Kangra valley. A fertile, undulating valley, lying between the gentle Shaivalik hills and the foothills of the mighty Dhauladhars - 'The white mountains' rising 400 m above sea level, a valley noted for the beauty of its scenery-lush terraces, wooded hills, manicured tea garden and sparking streams commands a splendid view of the surrounding country.

Place of Interest

(1) Macleodganj (2) St.John in the Wilderness (3) Triund Dharamkot (4) Kareri (5) Kunal Pathri (6) Machhrial (7) Tatwani (8) Chamunda Devi Temple.
Dalhousie

Dalhousie

Standing at the foot of the spectacular Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas. Sprawled over five hills – Kathlog, Portrevn, Moti Tibba, Bakrota and Balum.Dalhousie is noted for the magnificence of its scenery. Set amidst the thickly wooded hills, clothed in deodar and pine, Dalhousie has marvelous forest trails and picnic spots with splendid vistas over the Chamba Valley.

Place of Interest

(1) Subhash Baoli (2) Satdhara (3) Bakrota Hills (4) Kalatope (5) Dhanikund (6) Bara Pathar.
Chamba

The serene town of Chamba lies on the bank of the Ravi River. An erstwhile princely State, it was the capital of the former rulers of Chamba.

Chail

Chail was once the summer resort of the Maharaja of Patiala.Located on a wooded spur, hail (2150 m) overlooks the Sutlej Valley. There are excellent sports along the Gaura River with opportunities for anglers to tangle with Himalayan mahaseer.
Kasauli (73 km from Shimla)

Located 1927 m above sea level-forest of pines, oak and the crisp mountain air are incentives for picnics here. Monkey point, the highest point offers a panorama of green hills.

Andhra Pradesh Tourism

Andhra Pradesh Toursim

Covering an area of over a quarter million sq. kms, Andhra Pradesh is the largest state in the south both in terms of area and population. The word 'Andhra' is equally applicable to the land, the people and the language, although the language in coarse of time developed a name of its own - Telugu. Richly endowed with mineral and organic resources, including oil and natural gas, the land .of the Telugu-speaking people has seen a succession of dynasties 300 BC onwards.

Originally an Aryan race, the Andhra migrated south of the Vindyas where they mixed with the non-Aryan stocks and they first enter history as part of the great Mauryan Empire. Subsequently Satvahanas, Ikshavakas, Pallavas, Eastern Chalukyas, Cholas, Kakalyas, Vijanagar kings, Qutab Shahi Sultans, the Mughals and finally Asaf Jahi Nizams ruled Andhra till he was who was forced to enter into a subsidiary alliance with the British in 1800.

Following independence, Andhra was the first state in India to be formed on purely linguistic basis. Basically a Hindu state influenced by the Buddhism and ruled for nearly two centuries by the Muslims, Andhra has a diversely rich heritage of Mughal architecture, Buddhist centres and is home to Indias most important place of pilgrimage the Tirupati Temple at Tirumalai.

The Telugus are warm and friendly and have a very interesting cuisine because of its northern influence and large number of non-vegetarians.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Area: 277,354 sq Kms; Capital: Hyderabad; Population: 77 million; Language: Telugu, and Urudu; Literacy: 30%; Best time to visit: October to February; Airports: Hyderabad, Visakapatnam, Vijay Wada, Tirupati & Puttaparthi.

The Geography

Bounded by Madhya Pradesh and Orissa in the north, the Bay of Bengal in the east, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka in the south, and Maharashtra in the west, Andhra forms a major link between the north and south of India. From its extensive coastline, the coastal plains give rise to the Eastern Ghats. These in turn rise to form one of the oldest geological formations in India, the Deccan Plateau, on which most of Andhra Pradesh is situated at approximately 500m above sea level. Northern Andhra is mountainous. The highest peak in northern Andhra, Mahendragiri rises 1500m above sea level. The climate is generally hot and humid.

The Krishna and the Godavari are the major river systems in the state. The Godavari is the largest and broadest river of South India and the Tungabhadra is an important tributary of the Krishna. The other important rivers are the Pennar, Vamsadhara and the Nagavali, all of which is rain fed and of great economic significance because of their rich hydropower and irrigation potential. Andhra Pradesh is fed primarily by the southwest monsoon, which at times can wreck havoc in the low-lying areas, flooding the deltas and destroying lives and crops.

Highlights of Popular Places

Temples: Tirupathi - Tirumalai

Special sites: Golconda, Hyderabad, Nagarjunakonda, Qutb Shahi tombs, Warangal

Hyderabad and Secunderabad

Hyderabad was established in the 16th century on the southern banks of the River Musi by Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah and named after his queen Hyder Mahal. Emperor Aurangzeb routed the Qutb Shahis and appointed Asaf Jah the governor of Deccan. As the Mughal Empire tottered, under Aurangzeb's successors, the Asf Jahis made themsel ves independent rulers under the title of Nizam. The Nizams became involved in the Anglo-French wars in the Deccan and had finally to enter into a subsidiary alliance with the British in1800. With Secunderabad, the former British military barracks of early 19th century, which is linked to Hyderabad by the Hussain Sagar; it forms a twin city and is the capital of Andhra Pradesh.

Hyderabad is a combination of Hindu and Islamic cultures, and is a city of f ascinating contrasts with centuries old monuments standing chock-a block with modern skyscrapers and shopping malls.

Places of interest in and around Hyderbad

(1) Charminar (2) Laad Bazaar (3) Chowmahalla Place (4) Mecca Masjid (5) Salar Jung Museum (6) Birla Mandir Temple (7) Palanetarium & Science Museum (8) Buddha Statue & Hussain Sagar (9) Archaeological Museum (10) Osmania University (11) Nehru Zoological Park (12) Tombs of Qutb Shahi Kings and (13) Golconda Fort.

Hotel Accommodation: The Taj Krishna, Welcome Group Grand Kakatya Hotel, Holiday Inn Krishna, Hotel Bhaskar Plalace, Ramada Hotel Manohar, Viceroy, Ashok, Asrani International Hotel, Hotel Basera, The Central Court Hotel, Hotel Golonda, Hotel Java Internations, Hotel Nagarjuna, Hotel Rajdhani, Hotel Ambassador.

Nagarjunakonda

Named after Nagarjuna one of the most revered monks of Buddhism, Nagarjunakonda one of India's richest Buddhist sites is situated on the banks of the Krishna River in central Andhra Pradesh about 150 Kms away from Hyderabad. Archaeological evidences point to human inhabitation here from pre-historic times as early as 200,000 years back.



In 1950, the area was chosen as the site for a massive reservoir, the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam to generate electricity and for irrigation. The reservoir when full rises to a level of 180m arid is 175 Kms wide. Before the flooding in 1960, evidences of early inhabitations were excavated and restored within the walls of the nearby hilltop fort, now an island in the middle of the dam.

The Nagarjunakonda Museum also situated on the island is well laid out with Stone Age tools, coin moulds, coins and impressive sculptures including those of the Buddha. Apart from the exhibits, which offer a fascinating insight into the history of ancient Buddhist and Hindu civilizations, a model of the NagaIjunakonda Valley with the original positioning of the stupas, monasteries and university is also displayed. The museum is open on all days except Fridays and there are launches which ferry visitors between the small village of Vijayapuri on the banks of the Nagarjuna Sagar to the island twice a day.

Nagarjuna Sagar - Srisailam Wild Life Sanctuary

The largest Wild Life Sanctuary in the state, it is located 200 kms from Hyderabad near Srisailam. It is also India's largest Tiger reserves covering an area of over 3500 sq kms, it is deeply incised by the Nallamalai Hills and has a mixed deciduous and bamboo forest as well as semi-desert scrubland. There are tigers, leopards, Indian pangolins, panther, wild dogs, civet, hyena, jackals, wolves, giant squirrels, crocodiles, lizards, pythons, vipers, kraits etc., apart from over 150 species of birds.

Vishakhapatnam

This industrial and commercial heartland of Andhra Pradesh is India's largest shipbuilding yard. Popularly referred to as Vizag for short, it is the Eastern Headquarters' of the Indian Navy and the best-known sight here is the Dolphin's Nose a rocky cliff jutting into the harbour with a lighthouse on top. The hilly seaside twin city in the north known as Waltair has long beaches overlooking the Bay of Bengal.

Hotel Accommodation: Taj Residency, The Park, Dolphin Hotels, Hotel Daspala, Green Park, Hotel Meghalaya, Welcome group Grand Bay.

Vijayawada

This ancient city over 2000 years old is located at the head of the Krishna delta 70 Kms away from the coast and is surrounded by bare granite hills. Originally known as Bejjawada, its current name is believed to be after Goddess Kanakadurga or Vijaya, the presiding deity. During the Qutb Shahi rule Vijayawada was an important inland port. Today it is a major industrial hub of Andhra Pradesh and is about 256 Kms east of Hyderabad.

A colossal granite Buddha statue in the museum bears witness to the fact that Vijayawada was an important Buddhist site in the 7th century. The other attractions here include the Hindu temples, the ancient rock cave temples, 2000 years old Jain Temples and Amaravathi one of the most important Buddhist sites.

Vijaywada airport is about 20 Kms from the city and there are regular flights connecting it to Chennai and Vizag. As it is on the main Chennai to Kolkata and Chennai to Delhi railway lines, Vijaywada is an important railway junction and all express trains halt here and connects to the rest of the country very well. Being an important commercial center, Vijaywada is also well connected by road to all major towns and there is an efficient network of bus routes connecting Vijaywada to all parts of Andhra Pradesh including half hourly services to Hyderabad.
Places of interest in and around Vijayawada

(1) Kanakadurga Temple (2) Mogalarajapuram Caves (3) Undavalli Caves (4) Gandhi Stupa (5) Prakasam Barrage (6) Amaravathi (7) Kuchipudi (8) Kondapalle (9) Khamman Fort.

Hotel Accommodation: Hotel La Puram, Hotel Kandhari, Hotel Krishna Residency, Hotel Mamata, Hotel Raj Tower

Tirumala & Trirupathi

The Tirumala hills provide a picturesque setting for one of the most important pilgrim centres in India and one of the busiest in the world, overshadowing even Jerusalem, Rome and Mecca in the sheer number of devotees visiting here. Everyday is a festival here and shops remain open day and night to serve the multitudes that throng here throughout the year. Tirupathi town situated about 20 Kms downhill Tirumala. Organization here is efficiently administered by the Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanams [TTD], keeping visitors fed sheltered and moving. There are special pilgrim shelters both at Tirumala and Tirupathi called Choultries. There are private hotels and lodges too at Tirupathi and buses plying from dawn to dusk ferrying visitors 'up and down the hill.

Places of interest in and around Tirumala & Tirupathi

(1) Venkateshwara Temple (2) Sila Thoranam (3) Chandragiri (4) Sri Kalahasti Temple

Hotel Accommodation: Guestline Hotels and Resorts, Hotel Mayura, Bhima Deluxe Hotel, Hotel Bhimas Paradise.

Puttaparthi

In the southwestern comer of Andhra Pradesh is Puttaparthi, the birthplace of Satya Sai Baba who claims to be the reincarnation of the Sai Baba of Shridi. The main ashram of Sri Sathya Sai Baba called "Prasanthi Nilayam" or the Abode of Highest Peace is the centre of attraction here. Thousands of his followers converge here to catch a glimpse of the Sai Baba who spends most of his time here apart from his visits to Whitefield Ashram near Bangalore in neighboring Kamataka or Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu during the hot season. He is reputed to perform various miracles and his messages of universal brotherhood have become very popular, swelling his followers worldwide to over a million.

Places of interest in and around Puttaparthi

(1) Penukonda (2) Lepakshi.

Warangal

Warangal – “one stone” – 150 km northeast of Hyderabad, was the Hindu capital of the Kakatiyan Empire in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries. Warangal’s fort, 4km south, is famous for its two circles of fortifications: the outer made of earth with a moat, and the inner of stone.

Hotel Accommodation: Hotel Ashok, Hotel Ekasila, Hotel Chariot.

West Bengal Tours

West Bengal Tourism

West Bengal – a sojourn through its historic plains, snow – clad mountains, rolling hills, beautiful coastline or through its deep forests in Sundarbans or Sub-Himalayan doors - imprints memory on the minds of the visitors.
History

Bengal finds a coveted place even in pre-historic times. At the time of Alexander's invasion a powerful king called Gangaridai ruled over Bengal Ascendancy of the Guptas and the Mauryas had little effect on Bengal. Later Sasanka became King of Bengal and is said to have played an important role in northeastern India in the early half of the seventh century. He was succeeded by Gopala, who founded the Pala dynasty, which ruled for centuries and had created a huge empire. The Palas were followed by the Sena dynasty, which was ended by Muslim rulers from Delhi. Various Muslim rulers and governors till the Mughal period in 16th century ruled Bengal.

After the Mughals, history of modem Bengal begins with the advent of European and English trading companies. The Battle of Plassey in 1757 changed the course of history when the English first gained a strong foothold in Bengal and India. In 1905 it was partitioned to achieve some political returns but people's growing movement under the auspices of the Congress Party led to the reunion in 1911. This triggered of the hectic movement for freedom, which culminated with Independence in 1947 and partition.

After 1947, the merger of native settlement began which ended with its final reorganization in 1956 when some Bengali speaking areas of a neighboring State were transferred to West Bengal.
At a Glance

Area: 88,752 Sq.Km; Capital: Kolkata; Languages: Bengali, Hindi and English; Airports: Dumdum, Kolkata; Hill Resorts: Darjeeling (2127 m), Kalimpong (1450 m), Kurseong (1450 m), Mirik (170 m).

Popular Places: Kolkata, Shantiniketan, Darjeeling, Murshidabad.

Wildlife Sancturies: Sunderbans Wildlife Sanctuary, Jalarpara Wildlife Sanctuary

Kolkata

Kolkata is over 300 years old and had a fairy tale beginning. Amongst the British merchants sailing down the river Hooogly was one Job Charnock who rowed ashore to Sutanati, one of a cluster of three villages, the other two being Govindpur and Kalikata. Kolkata owes its origin to this English gentlemen as he did pronounce the name of the last village. During the British Raj Kolkata was known as the Jewel of the East and was the Capital of the country till 1911. It still bears the Victorian imprint on its streets and structures. Today, it is still the most important city in the east, the nerve center of trade and industry of the State.

Places of Interest

(1) Victoria Memorial (2) Botanical Garden (3) Horticulture Garden (4) Zoo (5) Lake (6) National Library.
How to Reach

Kolkata is connected by air with Jorhat, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, Patna, Port Blair, Ranchi, Silchar, Tezpur, Visakhapatnam, Amritsar, New Delhi and Leh.Kolkata is well connected by train with all major cities of India. Tourist can travel by road to all major part of India.

Hotel Accommodations : The Oberoi Grand, Taj Bengal, Hotel Airport Ashok, The Park Hotel, Hotel Hindustan, The Kenilworth, Peerless Inn, Hotel Rutt Deen, Hotel Shalimar, Astoria Hotel.

Shantiniketan

Shantiniketan is 211 km from Kolkata and there are regular bus services. Maharshi Debendranath, father of Rabindranath Tagore, had founded an Ashram here in 1863 AD. Almost 40 years later, Rabindranath started an open-air school at Shantiniketan that gradually developed into an international university named Visva Bharati where the cultures of the East and the West meet in common fellowship and thereby strengthen the fundamental conditions of world peace. KANKALITALA: 9 km from Shantiniketan has one of the sacred Satipithas and temple. DERR PARK: Located at Ballavpur forest is 4 km from Shantiniketan.

Darjeeling

Darjeeling, center of India’s most celebrated tea growing district, has possibly the most picturesque views among all Indian hill resorts. The View across the snowy peak of Kanchenjunga and other mountains down to the swollen rivers in the valley are simply magnificent. Darjeeling is a fascination place, where one can see Buddhist monasteries visit a tea plantation and is a convenient base for trekking.

Places of Interest

(1) Observatory Hills (2) Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (3) The Zoological Park (4) Lebong Race Course (5) Lloyd Botanical Garden (6) Dhirdham Temple (7) Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Ropeway.

How to Reach

Murshidabad

Murshidabad, named after Murshid Quli Khan, the Dewan of Bangel, Bihar and Orissa under Emperor Aurangzeb, is related to events that ultimately changed the history of India. At Plassey near Murshidabad the historic battle between Nawab Siraj – Ud – Daula and lord Clive had taken place. The relics strewn today speak of those times. But the history of this region date back perhaps further. The famous Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsiang, who made the long journey to India in 629-645 AD, in his world famous travelogue describes Karanasubarna near Murshidabad as the first capital of the ancient Bengal. The region is rich in textile and handicrafts. Baluchari sari, now a product of Vishnupur was originally woven at Jiaganj.

How to Reach

Nearest airport – Kolkata 223 km; Easily accessible by rail from Kolkata (197 km). Tourist can travel by road to all major part of India.

TREKKING


The East Himalayas present perhaps the best trekking routes in the whole of India. A popular trekking route from Darjeeling takes one to Sanakphu and Phalut from where one can have breathtaking views of Kanchengunga and Mt.Everest.

The most popular trek in Sikkim is from Yuksom to Dzongri and Goccha La for superb view of Kanchengunga. Two peaks in Dzongri area of West Sikkim, Thingchen Khang and Jopunob, have been declared 'Trekking Peaks', which means they are free of royalty payment. Foreigners have to obtain permits for trekking on most routes in Sikkim.

GOLF: The East Himalayan region is now part of the all India golf map with the introduction of the Duncans Runglee-Rungliot Golf Tournament at Chalsa in the Doors Valley. Introduced in 1998,the Tournament is billed to be an annual feature from '99.Adventure

RUN’N’TREK: Every year, in November, a faithful band of enthusiast assemble at the Himalayan foothill for a 'run' & trek' adventure covering a distance of 100 miles, from Manebhanjan to Sandakphu.

HAND GLIDING/BALWONING: Both these sports have been experimentally introduced at Dhoteria in Darjeeling district, during the Tea & Tourism festival in November 1998. The topography with its high ridges, cliffs and deep-down valleys is an ideal venue for such sports.

RIVER RAFTING: The river Teesta, with its deep gorges, rapids and strong currents, is tail made for river rafting, for much of the stretch covering both Sikkim and North Bengal. Canoeing and kayaking have also been introduced on the river Teesa and the lake in Mirik.

MOUNTAIN BIKING: An exciting spot that has been introduced in the region is mountain biking. The route takes you from Martem to Gangtok in Sikkim, via the famous Rumtek monastery.

ROCK CLIMBING: Rock climbing is regularly conducted at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling. Tourists with experience in the spot may contact the Institute.

ARCHERY: Archery competition, with traditional Sikkimese bows and arrows have been introduced for the tourists, as part of the annual Tea & Tourism Festival in the month of November.

ELEPHANT RIDES: Regular elephant rides are conducted inside some of the most exciting jungle land in India at Jaldapara for a once in a lifetime sighting of one-homed rhinos and Bengal tigers .

Jammu & Kashmir Toursim

Jammu & Kashmir Tours

Valley of Kashmir: set in the lap of the Himalayas towering to 18,000 feet with the sinuous Jhelum river cutting across in coils and curves forming the highway and the main source of sustenance. This fertile land has over century’s enticed people from all over the world to behold its legendary beauty. Indeed no other place on earth has more widely been referred to as "PARADISE".

History
Jammu has been mentioned in the Mahabharata. According to a legend, which is even mentioned in Rajatarangini and Nilmat Purana Kashmir was once a large lake. Kashyap Rishi had drained off the water making it an abode.

Emperor Ashoka introduced Buddhism to Kashmir in the 3 rd century BC, which was later strengthened by Kanishka. Huns got the control of the valley in the early 6th century. The valley regained freedom in 530AD but soon came under the rule of the Ujjain Empire. After the decline of the Vikramaditya the valley had its own rulers. There was a synthesis of Hindu and Buddhist cultures. Lalitaditya (697 - 738 AD) was most famous Hindu ruler who extended his kingdom up to Bengal in the east, Konkan in the south and Thrkistan in the north. Islam came into Kashmir in the 13th and 14th centuries. Zain-ul-Abedin (1420 ­70 AD) was the most famous Muslim ruler who came to Kashmir when the Hindu king Sinha Dev reigned there before Thtar invasion. Later Charaks Haider Shah, son of Zain-ul-Abedin, continued to rule till 1596 AD when Akbar conquered Kashmir. In 1752 AD, Kashmir passed on from the feeble control of the Mughal emperor of the time to Ahmed Shah Abdali of Afghanistan. The Valley was ruled by the Pathans for 67 years.

The land of Jammu was divided into 22 hill participants. Raja Maldev, one of the Dogra rulers conquered many to consolidate the kingdom. Raja Ranjit Dev ruled over Jammu from 1733 to 1782 AD. His successors were weak and thus Maharaja Ranjit Singh annexed the territory to Panjab.He later handed over Jammu to Raja Gulab Singh, a scion of the Dogra family. The state was governed by the Dogra rulers till 1947 when Maharaja Hari Singh the Instrument of Accession in favour of the Indian Union on October 26,1947.

Airports : Srinagar, Jammu and Leh.
Hill Resorts : Julmarg (2730m), Leh (3514 m), Pahalgam (2130 m), Srinagar (1586 m).

Srinagar
Srinagar is located in the heart of the Kashmir Valley, and is spread on both sides of the Jhelum River. Srinagar is a pleasure resort for tourists. It is a unique city because of its lakes – the Dal, the Nagin and the Anchar, which provide delightful houseboat holiday.

Places of Interest

(1) Pather Masjid (2) Shah Hamdan Mosque (3) Jamia Masjid (4) Dal Lake (5) Mughal Gardens (6) Chashma Shahi (7) Nishat Bagh (8) Shalimar Bagh (9) Hazratbal (10) Harwan (11) Pari Mahal (12) Shankaracharya Temple.


Houseboats: Houseboats are peculiar to Srinagar and perhaps the most memorable accommodation available. There are over 1000 houseboats moored on the banks of the Jhelum River, the Dal Lake and the Nagin Lake. They are known for their comfort and have been categorized into Deluxe, A, B, C, and D categories. Meals are generally included in the tariff.


Gulmarg: Gulmarg is rated as one of the matchless hill resorts in the world. Gulmarg is the valley, lush and green, located in the uplands of Jammu and Kashmir. All around are snow-capped mountains, and on clear day one can see all the way to Nanga Parbat, in one direction and Srinagar to another. In winter Gulmarg becomes country’s premier skiing resort. One can hire snow boots, mufflers, woolen socks, windproof jackets and caps.

Places of Interest

(1) Alpather Lake (2) Khilanmarg (3) Ningal Nallah (4) Ziarat of Babareshi
Pahalgam

Pahalgam is an idyllic resort, located on the banks of river Lidder and Sheshnag.It is the base for several treks in the region and for the annual pilgrimage to the cave shrine of Amarnath.The surroundings are ideal and allow for relaxation and leisure in the true spirit of traditional hill resort. Lidder River offers excellent fishing beats for brown trout.

Places of Interest

(1) Amarnath (2) Balsara (3) Kolahol Glacier (4) Mamlesvara (5) Tarsar Lake (6) Mamal.

Sonmarg

Sonmarg is sheer scenic splendour. The very way - metalled road snakes through massive mountains laden with forest and firs. The valley is rimed by mountains scaling 5300 m in height. The river meanders across the valley and abounds in trout and masher an angler’s delight. Major trekking routes begin at Sonmarg.Two lakes ‘Gadsar and Satsar are on the periphery of Sonmarg.

Leh

Leh is nestled in a side valley just to the north of the Indus Valley.Leh is an important strategic center for the military, which has a large presence here and is a reminder that the region is along India’s sensitive border with Pakistan and China.Leh’s character changed when Ladakh was opened up to foreign tourists in 1974.Since then, more than 100 hotels have been established and many of the shops o Main Bazaar Rd have been converted to sell arts and crafts. Leh is dominated by the dilapidated nine-story Leh Palace, home of the Ladakhi royal family before it was exiled to Stok Gompa in the 1830s.

Jammu

Amongst the three regions of Jammu and Kashmir State, Jammu perhaps, offers the widest diversity of terrain and beauty. In its undulating plains and lower hills of the south to its fierce heights of Kishtwar to the northeast, one is witness to its history, arts, religions and an abundance of natural beauty. The entire region is pocketed with lakes and valley. The foundation of the settlement of Jammu is attributed to King Jambulochan of the 91h century BC when, as the legend goes, he saw. Tiger and a goat together drinking at the same pool. At this auspicious spot he constructed a fort, believed to be the present Bahu Fort. Little is known of its subsequent history. Till 1730 AD, it remained under Dogra rule of Raja Dhruv Deva. Dogra rulers moved their capital to present site across the river Tawi and Jammu became an important centre for arts and culture, now renowned as the Pahari School. Religion too, played an important part in its development. So beautifully evidenced in its various ­Shrines and temples spread throughout the region.

HOW TO REACH

Air: Jammu is connected by air to Delhi, Chandigarh, Amritsar and Srinagar.
Rail: Jammu is connected by rail to Ahmedabad, Chennai, Delhi, Howrah, Jodhpur, Lucknow, Mangalore, Mumbai and Pune.

Delhi Tourism

Delhi Tours

History of Delhi

History of Delhi dated back to the Mahabharata period and much earlier as this was the site of the ancient Indraprastha. The city of Delhi was founded in the 11 th century by a Rajput chieftain of Tomara clan. Chauhans had obtained possession of the city from the Tomars. Prithvi Raj, the Chauhan ruler of Ajmer and Delhi made the city of Delhi famous by his heroic valour and romantic adventures. Delhi under Prithvi Raj and Kanauj under Jai Chand were the principal kingdoms of North India at that time.

The invasion of India by Muhammed Ghori was beaten back by Prithvi Raj in the first Battle of Taran in 1191 AD. Next year Ghori came back to avenge his defeat and in the second Battle of Taran in 1192 AD, the Rajput army was routed. Prithvi Raj was captured and put to death. Delhi thus passed into the hands of Muslim rulers for six centuries. Delhi was here after ruled by a series of Muslim dynasties, the Qutub Shahis Khiljis; Tughluqs; Sayyids and Lodis, each of whom built forts, tombs and palaces of different artistic styles.

After the 1857 the mutiny by Indian troops the British deposed the titular Emperor Bahadur Shah. A new capital was designed by Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker, English architect. New Delhi – a city of imposing dimensions was laid out by the side of the old city by the British Indian Government.Independent India has retained this historic capital.

Places of Interest

Qutub Minar: The tallest stone tower in India was started by Qutub – Ud – Din Aibak as a memorial of victory and also as an accessory to the adjoining mosque to call the faithful to prayer.

Alai – Darwaza, Alai – Minar and Iron Pillar: Alauddin Khilji, in 1300 AD added a court to the east of Quwwatul – Islam mosque and the magnificent Alai – dar – waza.

Siri: Siri, the second city of Delhi, was built by Alauddin Khilji in about 1303 AD.

Kotla Firoz Shah: Replete with history is the abandoned capital of Firozabad, the 5 th city of Delhi.

Haus Khas: In 1300 Ad Sultan Alauddin Khilji excavated a Hauz today known as Hauz Khas, to supply water to his new city of Siri.

Humayun’s Tomb: Located near the crossing of Mathura road and Lodi road, this magnificent garden tomb is the first substantial example of Mughal architect in India.

Red Fort: Built with red sandstone by the great Emperor Shah Jehan, when he shifted his capital from Agra to Delhi.

The Puranaquila

The foundation of the citadel was laid on the 16th April 1639 A.D. the construction took about nine years and it covers an area of 124 acres. Its fortification walls covering a perimeter of 2.41 km have height varying from 18m along river side 33.5 m on the other side. A wide moat (22.8 m wide and 9.14 m deep), surrounding the fort was originally connected to Yamuna River. Originally it had six gates but now entry into the for is through Labori and Delhi gates. The fort houses Diwane-e-Khas, the hall of public audience and Diwan-e-Khas, the hall of private audience the Moti Masjid or Pearl mosque, Rani Mahal and Hammam (royal baths).

Red Fort is the most prestigious place where Independent day celebration is held every year. Each evening the Sound and Light show recreates events of Indian history.

Jama Masjid : Built in red sandstone, Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, was built by Shahjahan. It has three gateways and two. Minarets, which stand 40 m high and are constructed of alternative vertical strips of red sand stone and white marble. The courtyard of the mosque is enclosed by an arched colonnade with domed pavilions at the corners. Along the western front is the prayer hall, which can accommodate 20,000 worshippers.

Jantar Mantar: The unique-observatory with masonry instruments was designed by astronomer king - Sawai Jai Singh of Jaipur in 1724 A.D.It is a popular place for staging dharanas (protests) and hunger ­strikes.

Safdarjung’s Tomb: Built in the 18th century by Nawab Shuja-ud-Daulah (1753-54 A.D.). It is the last enclosed garden tomb in Delhi. It has several small pavilions with evocative names like Jangli Mahal (Palace of Woods), Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) and Badshah Pasand (King's favorite). The complex also has a madarsa. The Archaeological Survey of India maintains a library over the main gateway.

Rastrapati Bhawan: Standing on Raisina Hill. It was earlier the Viceroy’s House is today the official residence of the President of India.

Secretariat: On the either side of the ventral vista leading up from Rajpath to Rastrapati Bhawan, are the two blocks of the Secretariat buildings.

Parliament House: The parliament house is a circular colonnaded building. It also houses ministerial offices, numerous committee rooms and library.

India Gate: Further east from the secretarial Building lies the All India was memorial arch, now known as India Gate. The 42 meter high freestanding arch was designed by Luteyens and built in 1931.India Gate was raised in the memory of 90,000 Indian soldiers killed during the World War I.

How To Reach

Air: Delhi is the main gateway city for northern India. All major international carriers operate direct services to New Delhi from various centers in the world. Domestic Airlines connect the city with all major centers of tourist and business interests in the country.

Rail: Delhi is the hub of the Indian Railways network with express trains to all parts of the country. Delhi has three major railway stations – Old Delhi, New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin.
Roads: Delhi is linked by bus services – air conditioned, deluxe and ordinary – to all major destinations in North India. Delhi Transport Corporation and Road Transport Corporations of neighboring States provide frequent bus services.

Uttar Pradesh Tours

Uttar Pradesh Tours

Uttar Pradesh is one of the most fascinating States of India. It has something to offer; hill stations to enjoy the holidays - jungles for hunting - rivers for angling and pilgrim places echoing the glories from the past.
History

Uttar Pradesh is recognized in the later Vedic age as Brahmanrshi Desa or Mashya Desa. Many great sages of the Vedic times like Bharadwaja, Gautam Yagyavalka, Vasista, Vishwamitra and Valmiki had lived in this area. Several sacred books of the Aryans were also composed here. Two great epics of India the Ramayana and Mahabharata based on the happing in this area.

In the 6th century BC Uttar Pradesh was associated with two new religions - Jainism and Buddhism. It was at Sarnath that Lord Buddha had preached his first sermon and laid the foundation of his order and it was in Kushinagar in U.P. where he had breathed his last. In the post Buddhist period, several centers in U. P. ( Uttar Pradesh) like Ayodhya, Prayag, Varanasi and Mathura became reputed centers of learning.

Sri Sankaracharya the great Hindu reformer established one of his ashrams at Badrinath in U.P. ( Uttar Pradesh). In the medieval period, U. P. ( Uttar Pradesh) passed under the Muslim rule and led the way to a new synthesis of Hindu and Islamic cultures. Ramananda and his Muslim disciple Kabir, Tulsidas, Soordas and many other intellectuals contributed to the growth of Hindi and other languages.

Uttar Pradesh preserved its intellectual leadership even under the British administration. The British combined Agra and Oudh into one province and called it United Provinces of Agra and Oudh. The name was shortened to the United Provinces in 1935.After Independence. In January 1950, United Provinces was renamed as Uttar Pradesh.
At a Glance

Area: 2,38,566 Sq.km; Capital: Licknow; Language: Hindi; Airports: Allahabad, Agra, Gorakhpur, Jhansi, Kanpur, Varanasi, Bareilly, Hindon (Ghaziabad), Sarsawa, (Saharanpur) Pantnagar (Nainital), Jolly Grant (Dehradun), and Fursatganj (Rae-Bareli); Museums: Agra (Taj Mahal), Allahabad (Allahabad Museum, Kausambi); Mathura (Government Museum); Sarnath (Archaeological Site Museum); Varanasi (Bharat Kala Bhavan; Pilgrim Centres: Allahabad, Ayodhya, Faizabad, Gorakhpur, Jaunpur, Kushinagar, Mathura, Sankasia,Sarnath,Sravasti and Varanasi.

Popular Places: Lucknow, Agra (Taj Mahal), Allahabad, Bundelkhand, Jhansi, Deogarh, Mahoba, Chitrakoot, Kalpi, Kalinjar, Kanpur, Varanasi, Kushinagar, Sravasti, Kapilvastu, Ayodhya and Mathura.

Wildlife Sanctuaries: Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary.
Lucknow

Lucknow, capital of Uttar Pradesh, extends along the banks of the Gomati River. The creator of Lucknow as it is today was Nawab Asaf­ud- Daulah. The city became center of Urdu poetry and reached its acme during the reign of Wajid Ali Shah who was a connoisseur of music and poetry. Today the city is dotted with remnants of its historic past. Lucknow is also known for its elaborate cuisine and "CHIKANKAARI" on fine cloth.
Places of Interest

(1) Hussainabad Imambara (2) Shah Najaf Imambara (3) Residency (4) Asafi Imambara (5) Rumi Darwaza (6) Kaiserbagh Palace Complex (7) National Botanical Research Institute.

Excursions: (1) Kukrail Reserve Forest (2) Nawanganj Bird Sanctuary (3) Neemsar (4) Ayohdhya (5) Hanumangarh.

How to Reach

Lucknow is connected by air with Kolkata, New Delhi, Patna and Mumbai.Lucknow is a major railway junction and connected directly with main cities of India. Tourist can travel by road to other main cities of Uttar Pradesh and India.

Hotel Accommodations: Taj Residency, Hotel Clarks Avadh, Carlton Hotel, Hotel Charan International, Deep Hotel, Hotel Deep Avadh, Kohinoor Hotel, Capoor’s Hotel, Hotel Gomti, Arif Castle.

Agra (Taj Mahal)

Agra was the capital of the Mughal empire in the 16 th and 17 th century and its significance as a political center ended with the transfer of the capital to Delhi in 1634 AD by Shah Jahan.But its architectural wealth ‘TAJ MAHAL’ has secured its place on the International Map. Agra is also known for its superb inlay work on marble and soapstone.
Places of Interest

(1) Taj Mahal – The inimitable poem in white marble, one of the seven modern wonders of the world, the finest expression of love of Emperor Shah Jahan for his queen Mumtaz is located on the banks of the Yamuna river here. The construction of the Taj Mahal had commenced in 1631 AD and had ended in 1653 AD.Taj Mahal will remain a symbol of eternal love. (2) Agra Fort (3) Itmad – Ud – Daulah’s Tomb.

Excursions: (1) Ram Bagh (2) Sikandra (3) Chini – Ka - Roza (4) Radhaswamy Samadhi (5) Jama Masjid (6) Mariyam’s Tomb (7) Sur Surovar (Keetham Lake) (8) Fatehpur Sikri (37 km) (9) Bharatpur Bird Sanctury (10) Aligarh (11) Mathura and Vrindavan.
How to Reach

Agra is connected by air with New Delhi, Khajuraho and Varanasi.Agra is connected by rail with all major cities of India. Tourist can travel by road to other main cities of Uttar Pradesh and India.

Hotel Accommodations: Welcomegroup Mughal Shereton, Hotel Taj View, Hotel Clarks Shiraz, Hotel Mansingh Palace, Hotel Agra Ashok, Hotel Howard Park Plaza, The Trident, Hotel Amar, Hotel Atithi, Hotel Grand, Mayur Tourist Complex, Agra Deluxe, Hotel Taj Khema, Hotel Ganga Ratan, Hotel Amar

Allahabad

Allahabad, sacred city of Hinduism was formerly called 'PRAYAG' in commemoration of a sacrifice done by Lord Brahma. According to Hindu mythology for the 'Prakrishta Yagna' Lord Brahma chose a piece of land on the earth on the confluence of the three rivers - the Ganga, the Yamuna and the mystical Saraswati. This confluence is called SANGAM. The Sangam is the venue of many sacred fairs and rituals and attracts thousands of pilgrims throughout the year. Akbar had visited Prayag in 1575 AD and founded a new city by the name Illahabad which has now become Allahabad. The city was an important cantonment during the British Raj and has some beautiful remnants of colonial architecture. In the early 20th century, Allahabad was the foremost center of learning in the country.
Places of Interest

(1) Sangam (2) Fort (3) Hanuman Temple (4) Anand Bhawan (5) Allahabad University (6) Allahabad Museum (7) Patthar Girja or All Saint’s Cathedral.

How to Reach

Allahabad is connected by air with Lucknow, Kanpur and Varanasi.Allahabad is the major rail junction and connected by rail with all major cities of India. Tourist can travel by road to other main cities of Uttar Pradesh and India.

Hotel Accommodations: Hotel Kanha Shyam, Hotel Allahabad Regency, Presidency, Hotel Samrat, Hotel Yatrik, Hotel Tepso and Hotel Prayag.

Bundelkhand

Bundelkhand, which emerged from the mists of history during the rule of the mighty Chandelas in the 9th century AD, governed the destiny of central India for nearly 300 years. The Bundelas who came to power six centuries later were also to command influence in this region. Bir Singh Ju Deo (1605-1627 AD) a favorite of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir was a powerful ruler. Centuries later during the 1857 Mutiny against the British Raj, Bundelkhand produced charismatic leader in the Valiant Rani Laxmibai of Jhansi who led her troops into war against the might of the British.

Bundelkhand today is identified with districts of Jhansi, Lalitpur, Jalam, Hamirpur, Banda and Mahoba in Uttar Pradesh and Sagar, Chattarpur, Tikamgarh, Panna and Damoh and parts of Gwalior, Datia, Shivpuri and Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh.

Main cities of Bundelkhand are Jhansi (U.P.), Orcha (M.P.), Shivpuri (M.P), Datia (M.P.), Sonagiri (M.P.), Deogarh (U.P.), Mahoba (U.P.), Chitrakoot (U.P.), Kalpi (U.P.), Kalinjar (U.P.) and Khajuraho (M.P.).
To visit Bundelkhand the convenient itinerary begins in New Delhi, from where one can travel for Gwalior proceeding to Jhansi-Orcha-Khajuraho-Mahoba-Kalinjar-Chitrakoot-Allahabad- and back to New Delhi.

Jhansi

Jhansi, the gateway to Bundelkhand, was a stronghold of the Chandela kings but lost its importance after the eclipse of the dynasty in the 11 th century. It rose to prominence again in the 17th century under Raja Bir Singh Deo who was a close associate of Mughal Emperor Jahangir. However its greatest claim to fame is its fiery queen Rani Laxmibai who led forces against the British in 1857 AD sacrificing her life to the cause of Indian independence. Jhansi is ideal base to reach Orcha, Shivpuri, Deogarh and Khajuraho.

Places of Interest

(1) Jhansi Fort (2) Government Museum (3) Rani Mahal.

Excursions: (1) Barua Sagar (24 km) (2) Parichha (25 km) (3) Todi – Fatehpur (4) Samthar (66 km) (5) Orcha (18 km) (6) Shivpuri (101 km) (7) Datia (34 km) (8) Sonagiri (45 km).

How to Reach

Nearest airport is Gwalior 98 km; Khajuraho 175 km. Jhansi is the major rail junction and connected by rail with all major cities of India. Tourist can travel by road to other main cities of Uttar Pradesh and India.

Hotel Accommodations: Hotel Sita, Hotel Chanda, Jhansi Hotel, Prakash Guest House, Raj Palace Hotel.

Deogarh
Deogarh is situated on the right bank of the Betwa River at the end of the Lalitpur range of hills. The cliffs, immediately overhanging the bank rise to a height of 300 feet and form a long steep ridge of red sandstone. Deogarh is of great antiquarian, epigraphical and archaeological importance and has figured in the history of the Guptas, the Gujaras - the Pratiharas, the Gondas, the Muslim rulers of Delhi, and Kalpi, the Marathas and the British. The thickly forested hills around Deogarh harbors a variety of wildlife.

Places of Interest

(1) Dashavatar Temple (2) Jain Shrines (3) Deogarh Archaeological Museum.

Excursions: (1) Chanderi (2) Barua Sagar.

How to Reach

Nearest airport is Gwalior 235 km. Convenient railway station – Lalitpur – 35 km. Tourist can travel by road to other main cities of Uttar Pradesh and India.
Mahoba

Mahoba is the ancient capital of the mighty Chandelas. The Chandelas were great warriors and builders and have left behind an extraordinary legacy. The impregnable hilltop fort and the lakes they created are considered engineering feats and their water management system can still be seen. The lakes include Rahila Sagar built by Rahila (885-905 AD), the Kirat Sagar built by Kirtivarman (1060 - 1100 AD) and the Madan Sagar built by Madan Verma (1128 - 1165 AD). Near Madan Sagar lies the famous granite Shiva temple known as Kakramath, built in the Khaujuraho style of temple architecture. On the island in the lake stands Majhari, the ruins of another Vishnu temple. There is an old Chandela fort known as Quila Mismar, Maniya Devi temple and the Dargah of a Muslim saint from Arabia, who settled in 1252 AD are to be visited in the fort area. Mahoba also has two famous Chandela period tanks Ram Kund and Suraj Kund lined with granite slabs in a reserve pyramid shape. The town is also known for the excellent varieties of paan (beta leaves) that are despatched to all parts of the country.

How to Reach

Nearest airport – Khajuraho 65 km; Mahoba is connected by broad gauge rail line with Mumbai, Allahabad, Gwalior, Varansi etc. Tourist can travel by road to other main cities of Uttar Pradesh and India.

Hotel Accommodations: Atithi Hotel, Shivam Hotel, Paras Hotel, Trishul Hotel, and Tourist Bungalow.


Chitrakoot

Chitrakoot is the hill of Many wonders of the Vindhyas.A city with more than legendary significance, it was the abode of Lord Ram and Sita for eleven year when in exile, the place where Sage Atri and Sati Anusuya meditated, the divine spot saw the incarnation of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh.

Places of interest: (1) Ramghat (2) Kadamgiri (3) Janaki Kund (4) Sati Anusuya (5) Gupta Godavari.

How to Reach


Nearest airport – Khajuraho 185 km; Nearest railway station – Karvi 8 km. Tourist can travel by road to other main cities of Uttar Pradesh and India.

Hotel Accommodations : Hotel Pramod Van, Tourist Bungalow, and M.P.State Tourist Bungalow.


Kalpi

Kalpi is believed to have been originally founded by Kalib Dev, a ruler of the area in ancient times. One of the eight forts of the Chandelas the earliest authentic mention of Kalpi is found in the annals of its capture by Qutb – Ud – Din Aibak in 1196 AD.

Kalinjar

Located in the ancient land of Jejakbhukti, an integral part of Bundelkhand this fort and town were of strategic importance during medieval times. There are several other places of interest within the fort.

Kanpur

Kanpur, situated on the banks of the holy Ganga River, is the largest industrial city and known for its historic and religious past. During the Mutiny of 1857 it was the headquarters of a large Indian garrison and was called “CAWNPORE”. It still bears landmarks of the British Raj.It is also famous for its leather industry.

Excursion: Bithoor (22 km), Bhitargaon (59 km), Kannauj (80 km).

How to Reach

Nearest airport – Kanpur and Lucknow 65 km; Kanpur is a major railway junction and connected directly with main cities of India. Tourist can travel by road to other main cities of Uttar Pradesh and India.

Hotel Accommodations : The Landmark Hotel, Hotel Swagat, Hotel Meghdoot, Meera Inn, Geet Hotel, Hotel Deep Mayur, Hotel Gaurav.

Varanasi Kanpur and Lucknow 65 km; Kanpur is a major railway junction and connected directly with main cities of India. Tourist can travel by road to other main cities of Uttar Pradesh and India.

Hotel Accommodations : The Landmark Hotel, Hotel Swagat, Hotel Meghdoot, Meera Inn, Geet Hotel, Hotel Deep Mayur, Hotel Gaurav.

Varanasi




Varanasi is one of the oldest living cities in the world and the ultimate pilgrimage for Hindus, who believe that to die in the city, is to attain instant salvation. Varanasi is the tract of holy land lying between the Ganga and the Assi rivers. The Assi River also flows into Ganga. Varanasi is also known as Kashi, the city of light since one of the twelve 'Jyortinglinga's is installed here. Varanasi has been a great cultural center, especially in the fields of music, learning and the craft of silk weaving.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary: A peaceful spot about 100 km south of Varanasi.This sanctuary boasts tigers, panthers, sambar and spotted deer. There are also waterfalls and ancient cave painting in the area.
GHATS: At dawn, pilgrims, standing waist-deep in water, pray to the rising sun.


KASHI VISHWANATH TEMPLE: Also known as the Golden temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Varanasi is said to be the sight of the first Shivlinga. The original temple was destroyed by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and the present temple was built by Rani Ahalyabai of Indore in the 18111 century. The Temple is open only for Hindus .

GYANVAPI MOSQUE: It was built by Aurangzeb near the present Vishwanath Temple.

DURGA TEMPLE: Commonly called the 'Monkey temple' it was built in the 18th century.

TULSI MANAS TEMPLE: Dedicated to Lord Rama it is situated at the place where Tulsidas lived and wrote his Ramacharitmanas.

BANARAS IDNDU UNIVERSITY: Founded by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya as a centre for the study of Indian art, culture, music and also Sanskrit it is developed into a modern academic centre of various disciplines. It is believed to be the largest residential university in Asia.

RAM NAGAR FORT AND MUSEUM: A 17th century fort Ram Nagar is the home of the Maharaja of Banaras, who is revered as the representative of Lord Shiva in the city. The Museum has unique collection of furniture, palanquins, costumes, coins and weapons.

River Trips: A boat ride on the Ganges has become one of the must –dos of a visit to Varanasi, but be prepared to see the odd corpse floating down the river. It’scustomary to do the trip early in the morning when the light is particularly inspiring.

HOW TO REACH

AIR: Varanasi is connected by air with Delhi, Agra, Khajuraho, Calcutta, Mumbai, Lucknow, Bhubaneshwar and Kathamandu.

RAIL: Varanasi is an important railway junction having train connections with all major cities of India

ROAD: Varanasi is well connected by road to rest of the India. Tourist can travel by road to other main cities of Uttar Pradesh and India.

Hotel Accommodations : Hotel Taj Ganges, Hotel Clarks, Hotel Hindustan International, Hotel Ashok, Hotel De Paris, Hotel Ideal Tops, Diamond Hotel, and Hotel India.

Kushinagar

Kushinagar is a peaceful, green town and makes a great respite from the chaotic larger towns in north-east Uttar Pradesh.Kushinagar, one of the principal centers of Buddhist pilgrimage, is the place of Mahaparinirvana.The monuments of Kushinagar are situated in three distinct comprising the main site of the Nirvana Temple, the central sputa and surrounding monasteries. Kushinagar Museum houses finds from exactions at the site.

How to Reach

Nearest airport – Gorakhpur 44 km; Nearest railway station Gorakhpur 51 km; Kushinagar is well connected by road to rest of the India. Tourist can travel by road to other main cities of Uttar Pradesh and India.

Hotel Accommodations: Hotel Nekko, Pathik Niwas, International Guest house.

Sravasti

Sravasti, capital of the ancient Kosala kingdom is sacred to Buddhists because it is here that Lord Buddha performed the greatest of his miracles to confound the TIrthika heretics. These miracles include that of the Lord Buddha creating multiple images of himself and have been among the favorite themes of Buddhist art. Buddha himself spent many summers here to deliver important sermons. Here Anathapindaka was built in the garden of Prince Jeta for the reception of the Buddha. Today, the remains unearthed testify to the flourishing condition of this sacred spot in the Gupta period.


Place of Interest

(1) Maheth (2) Sobhnath temple (3) Saheth.

How to reach
Nearest airport – Lucknow 176 km; Nearest railhead – Balrampur 17 km; Sravasti is well connected by road to rest of the India. Tourist can travel by road to other main cities of Uttar Pradesh and India.

Hotel Accommodations: Inspection Bungalow, Burmese Temple Rest House, and Chienese Temple Rest House.

Kapilvastu

Kapilvastu, modem Piprahwa lies at a distance of 20 km from Siddarthnagar. Kapilvastu was the ancient capital of the Sakya clan whose ruler was the father of the Buddha. Prince Gautam, as the Buddha was then known, left his palace in Kapilvastu at the age of 29, and revisited it 12 years later after he had attained enlightenment. A large stupa stands at the ancient site, which is said to have housed the bone relics of the Buddha. The presence of these relics is testified by an ancient Brahmi inscription discovered at Piprahwa. The ruins of the palace are spread over a large area.

Lumbini, 95 km from Kapilvastu, is situated across the border in Nepal, which is the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Buses ply upto the border from where the remaining 8 km has to be covered by private vehicles or cycle rickshaws.

How to reach

Nearest airport – Gorakhpur 104 km, Khajuraho 130km;Nearest railway station – Siddharth Nagar 20 km; Kapilvastu is approachable by road from Gorakhpur 97 km, Kushinagar 148 km, Varanasi 312 km, Lucknow 308 km. Tourist can travel by road to other main cities of Uttar Pradesh and India.

Ayodhya

Ayodhya (134 km from Lucknow), the holy city and the popular pilgrim centre is situated on the right bank of the Saryu river. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The ancient city of Ayodhya according to Ramayana was founded by Manu, the lawgiver of the Hindus. For centuries it was the capital of the descendants of the Surya dynasty of which Lord Rama was the most celebrated King. The story of the epic Ramayana has been immortalized by Valmiki and immensely popularized by the great masses through centuries. Ramkot is the chief sacred place of worship. On 'Ramnavami, this place attracts devotees from India and abroad.


Mathura (62 km from Agra)

Mathura is traditionally recognized as the capital of the Braj Boomi, the land which gave birth to Lord Krishna.Mathura Ghats are of great ritual interest.

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Bihar Tourism

Bihar India Tourism
The History of Bihar

Bihar has a very ancient glorious and colorful history. Several of its cities are very ancient having mythological background and finds mention in the Vedas and Puranas. Bihar was the main scene of activities of Buddha and 24 Jain Tirthankaras. Great rulers of the State before the Christian era were Bimbisar Udayin who founded the city of Patliputra, Chandragupta Maurya and Emperor Ashoka under whom, Magadha and its capital Patliputra became famous all over the world. With the death 'of Ashoka, its fortunes declined. However, under the Gupta emperors, it regained its lost glories. During the medieval period the Muslim invaders made in-roads here. The first to conquer Bihar was Mohammed-bin-Bakhtiar Khaliji. The Khalijis were followed by the Thghluqs and then Mughals. Taking advantage of the disintegration of the Mughal Empire the British established their footholds in Bihar with the battle of Plassey in 1757. Through successive battles and annexations the British consolidated their position till 1911. Bihar formed part of the Bengal Presidency when on 12 December 1911; a separate province of Bihar and Orissa was created. In 1936 Bihar was made a separate province.
Patna

History and heritage of capital city of Patna goes back to more thanl two millennium years. Patna had been the regal seat of governance for successive kingdoms each ruler was ascended in power, gave his capital a new name-Kusumpur, Pushapapura, Patliputra, Azeemabad but now being called Patna. A continuous history ranging from 8-7 century BC to present times a record claimed by very few cities in the world. From 6th century BC to 6th century AD Ajatshatru, second in the line of Magadha kings, built a small fort at Pataligram at the confluence of the Ganga and Sone rivers. This later becomes the famous


Mauryan metropolis of Pataliputra and was ruled by Chandragupta Maurya and his grandson Ashoka who becomes immortal for the spread of Buddhism.Today, Patna is an important business center of eastern India and also the gateway to the Buddist and Jain Pilgrim centers of Vaishali, Rajgir, Nalanda, Bodhgaya and Pawanpuri.
Places of Interest

(1) Kumrahar (2) Golgarh (3) Har Mandir Takht (4) Marty’s Memorial (5) Pathar Ki Masjid (6) Sher Shah Suri Masjid (7) Khuda Baksh Oriental Library (8) Sadaqat Ashram (9) Maner (10) Agam Kuan (11) Jalan Museum (12) Patna Museum.
Buddhist Circuit

Gaya

About 92 km from Patna, Gaya is one of the most important pilgrim centers for the Hindus since times immemorial. It is believed that a Hindu will reach heaven if his post – cremation rites are performed under the celebrated ‘Akshayobat’ or immortal banyan tree standing in the courtyard of Vishnupad temple. Believed to be built on the footsteps of Lord Vishnu the grand temple was removed by a Ahalyaba, queen of Indore.

Bodhgaya

Serene and quiet this tiny little village, holiest among the Buddhist religious centres is Bodhgaya.

It was here that the quest of Prince Siddharth was fulfilled after years of quest for the ultimate truth; the supreme enlightenment and he became 'THE BUDDHA’, the enlightened one. Thus, in a way, Buddhism was born under the Peepal Tree here. The tree still

appears to radiate an aura of abiding serenity, spiritual solitude and peace. It is believed that the original Bodhi tree sprang up on the day of Buddha’s birth. Lying in sylvan solitude this sacred place is situated on the banks of Niranjana river (modern Falgu). It is 13 km from Gaya.
Places of Interest

(1) The Bodhi Tree (2) Mahabodhnini Temple (3) Vajrasana (4) The Ancient Railing (5) Chankaramana (6) Animeshlochana (7) Ratnagar and (8) Lotus Tank.

Rajgir

Rajgir is located in a verdant valley surrounded by rocky hills. An aerial ropeway provides the link with a hill top sputum “Peace Pagoda" built by the Japanese. On one of the hills is the cave of Saptaparni where the first Buddhist Council was held. Hot water springs here have curative properties and are sacred to the Hndus.Rajgir is 10 km south of Nalanda, sacred to the memory of the founder of both Buddhism and Jainism as the Buddha lived here in the sixth century BC.Once a great city, Rajgir is just a village today but vestiges of a legendary and historical past remain, like the cyclopean wall that encircles the town and the marks engraved in rock that local folklore ascribes to Lord Krishna’s chariot.
Places of Interest

(1) Amaravana or Jivaka’s Mango Garden (2) Venuvana (3) Ajatshatru’s Fort (4) Bimbisara’s Jail (5) Swarna Bhandar (6) The Cyclopean Wall (7) Griddakuta Or Vulture’s Peak (8) Jain Temples (9) Hot Springs and (10) Pippala Cave.
Nalanda

Nalanda has a very ancient history. Lord Vardhamana Mahavira and Lord Buddha had frequently visited it in 6 th century BC.It is also supposed to be the birth place of Sariputra, one of the chief disciples of Lord Buddha.

Hieum Tsang, the Chinese traveler of the seventh century, says, that according to tradition the place owned its name to a Naga saint of the same name who resided in a tank here. The University of Nalanda was founded in the 5 th century BC by the Gupta emperors and recorded as the world’s earliest university. There were thousands of students and teachers. It was a great center of learning and students from foreign countries were also attracted to this university. Nalanda acquired a celebrity spread all over the east as a center of Buddhist theology and education activities. The ruins extend over a large area and represent only a part of the extensive establishment.
Places of Interest

(1) The Nalanda University Archaeological Complex (2) The Nalanda Archaeological Museum.
Vaishali



Vaishali has a past that pre-dates recorded history. It is believed that the town derives its name from king Vishal whose heroic deeds are narrated in the Hindu epic Ramayana. However the history records that around the time Patliputra was the centre of political activity in the Gangetic plains, Vaishali became the centre of trade. Lying on the north bank of the Ganga it was the seat of the republic of Vajji. Vaihshali is credited with being India's first and the world's finest republic to have a duly elected assembly of representatives and efficient administration in those ancient days.

Lord Buddha had visited Vaishali and announced his approaching. Mahaparinirvana' (death). And a hundred years later the second Buddhist council was held here. According to one belief, the 24th Jain Tirthankar, Lord Mahavira was born at Vaishali. The Chinese travellers Fa-Hien and Hieun Tsang had also visited Vaishali in the early 5th and 7th century BC respectively and had written about the city in their memoirs.

Places of Interest
(1) Ashoka Pillar (2) Bawan Pokhar Temple (3) Buddha Stupa I (4) Buddha Stupa II (5) Raja Vilas Ka Garh (6) Kundpur (7) Coronation Tank 


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Tamil Nadu Tours

Tamil Nadu Tours

Tamil Nadu is one of the most ancient regions of India. Civilization flourished in Tamil Nadu long before the beginning of the Christian era. The heart of the Dravidian culture and tradition, home of Classical dances Bharat Natyam, the visual legacy of the culture of the Tamil Nadu is among most satisfying spectacles in India.
History

Tamil Nadu is one of the most ancient regions in India history of which dates back some 6000 years. Tamil Nadu represents the nucleus of Dravidian culture in India, which antedated the Aryan culture in India by almost a thousand years. Tamil Nadu was variously ruled by the Cheras, Cholas and Pandyas prior to the Christian era. Karikalan Chola, the greatest of the earlier Chola, ascended the throne at the beginning of this era. He took several measures for the welfare and constructed a barrage across the Kaveri River. Prominent Chola cities were Thanjavur and Kumbakonam. The Pandyas excelled in trade and learning.

The Cholas were followed by the Cheras and were powerful on the west coast. Madurai was most important city under them. The reign of the great temple builders the Pallavas began sometimes during the second quarter of the 4th century AD, and dominated the south for 400 years. Dravidian architecture attained great heights during this period. Some of their major contributions include the beautiful monuments of Mamallapuram, the Kailasnather temple at Kanchipuram and, the Kapaliswarar and Parthasarthy temples at Chennai. The Pallavas continued to hold sway until the 10th century. The end of 11 th century once again saw the alternative rule of the Chalukyas, Chola and Pandyas.

In the 13th century, the Pandyas became dominant. Their kingdom was a great center of international trade. The Muslim invasion of South India came in 14 th century. With the establishment of East India Company at Madras in 1639, a new chapter was opened in the history of Tamil Nadu.In 1641 Fort St.George became the headquarters of the East India Company on coromondal coast.

When India became independent, the old Madras province comprising Tamil Nadu,Andhra Pradesh and part of Kerala continued as the State of Madras. Agitation for a separate Andhra State compelled the government to bifurcate the State into two different State, Andhra Pradesh to include the Telugu speaking and Madras the Tamil speaking people. On 14 th January 1969 Madras State change its name to Tamil Nadu.The capital city Madras was renamed Chennai in 1996.
General Information

Area: 1,30,058 sq.km; Capital: Chennai (Madras); Population: 60 million; Language: Tamil; Best time to visit: November to February; Airports: Chennai, Tiruchirapali, Coimbatore, Madurai; Popular Places: Chennai (Madras), Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram), Kanchipuram, Tiruvannamalai, Pondicheery, Yercaud, Chidambaram, Thanjavur, Kumbakonam, Nagore, Velanganni, Tiruchirappalli (Trichi), Madurai, Rameswaram, Kanyakumari (Kanniyakumari), Kuttralam (Courtallam), Kodaikanal, Coimbatore, Ooty and Mudumalai.
Highlights of Popular Places

Temples: Madurai, Chidambaram and Kanchipuram.

Beaches: Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram), Kovalam (Covelong).

Hill Stations: Kodaikanal and Ooty.

Wildlife Sanctuaries: Mudumalai and Anamalai.

Chennai (Madras)

Chennai (formerly known as Madras) owes its origins to the British Empire, which established a fort – Fort St.George – and trading post here in the 17 th century. Small clusters of earlier hamlets were incorporated to form the 1 st Municipal Corporation in India and what is today the 4 th largest city in India. Despite its rapid growth into a bustling metropolis, Chennai is however an enthusiastic and friendly city that has retained something of its distinctive nature and is indeed the Gateway to South India.

Places of Interest

(1) Fort St.George (2) Kapiliswara temple (3) Marina Beach (4) Santhome Cathedral (5) Kalakshetra (6) Theosophical Society (7) Valluvar Kotlam (8) Sittarangam (9) Kishinda Picnic Park.
How to Reach

Chennai is an international airport with flight connections to all major parts of the world. Regular train services connect Chennai directly with all major cities of India.
Hotel Accommodations: Taj Coromondal, Connemara Hotel, The Trident, Welcome Group Chola Shereton, Ambassador Pallava, Madras International, Hotel President, Savera Hotel, Quality Inn Aruna, Breez Hotel, Hotel Kanchi, Hotel Atlantic, Hotel Grand Orient, Hotel Ranjith.

Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram)

Mamallapuram renowned for its shore temple is still popularly referred to as Mahabalipuram, after the Pallva ruler Narasimhavarma I Pallavammala – who made this port town famous in the 7 th century and was largely responsible for its magnificent temples. There are 14 cave temples,9 monolithic raths or shrines in the shape of temple chariots,3 stone temples and 4 relief sculptured rock panels.
Places of Interest

(1) Shore Temple (2) Arjuna’s Penance (3) Ganesh Ratha (4) Trimurti Cave temple (5) Mandapams (6) Five Rathas (7) Museums.
How to Reach

Situated just 52 km south of Chennai, Mamallapuram is easily accessible by road from Chennai, which is also the nearest airport.

Hotel Accommodations : Golden Sun Beach Resort, Hotel Surya, Ideal Beach resort, ITDC Temple Bay Ashok Beach Resort, La Vie en Rose, TTDC Hotel Tamil Nadu, VGP Golden Beach Resort.
Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram is one of India’s most spectacular temple cities and its many gopurams can be seen from miles away. Situated just 76 km west of Chennai, it is one of the 7 sacred cities of India. Unlike other cities of India, which are usually dedicated to either Lord Vishnu or Lord Shiva, Kanchipuram is dedicated to both and is also the most important city dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi (Durga).
Places of Interest

(1) Kailasnatha Temple (2) Sri Ekambaranath Temple (3) Kamakshi Amman Temple (4) Vardarajaperumal temple.
How to Reach

Situated on the Chennai – Bangalore highway, Kanchipuram is well connected by both. Bus and train services with Chennai, Pondicherry and nearby cities. The nearest airport is Chennai.

Hotel Accommodations : Baboo Soorya Hotel, Hotel Abhirami Lodge, and Hotel Jayabala International.
Tiruvannamalai

This small town about 90 km away from Vellore and 175 km from Chennai is situated at the base of the Arunachala Hill. There are over a hundred temples here, but the Shiva Parvathi Temple of Arunchaleswar is said to be one of the largest in India covering an area of 10 hectares.
Places of Interest

(1) Arunachaleswarar Temple (2) Sathanur Dam (3) Thirukoilur (4) Gingee Fort (5) Rajagiri.
How to Reach

It is about 175 km from Chennai and many buses ply daily. It is 66 km from Pondicherry and 68 km from Villupuram.As it is on the Katpadi – Villupuram meter gauge railway track, one can also reach it by train.

Hotel Accommodations: Park Hotel, Modern Café.
Pondicheery

A former French colony settled in the 18 th century, Pondicherry is indeed is a beautiful Indian town with traces of French culture still intact and ashram by the sea. Together with the other former French colonies of Karaikal (Tamil Nadu), Mahe (Kerala) and Yanam (Andhra Pradesh), it was voluntarily handed over to the Indian Government in 1954 and now forms the Union Territory of Pondicherry.
Places of Interest

(1) Sri Aurobindo Ashram (2) Sri Aurobindo Handmade Paper Factory (3) Auroville (4) The Pondicherry Museum (5) Botanical Garden.

How to Reach

The nearest airport is at Chennai, about 165 kms away from Chennai.There are regular train services connecting Pondicherry to Chennai.You can travel by road to other cities to Tamil Nadu.

Hotel Accommodations: Aristo Hotel, Blue Star, Hotel Soorya, Hotel Surguru, Hotel Jayram, Kanchi Hotel, Ram International, Rende Hotel, Hotel Rolex, Vailan Kanni Hotels, Felix Hotel, Hotel Priya, Hotel Ravikrishna, Hotel Pondicherry Ashok and Hotel Mass.

Yercaud

This is a popular hill station, at an altitude of about 1500 meters above sea level. Situated just 35 km from the town of Salem, which is also the nearest railway station, Yercaud is pleasantly cool with many a picturesque spots. Surrounded by the coffee plantations this is an excellent place to unwind and relax.

Places of Interest

(1) Lake (2) Ladys’ seat (3) Killiyur Falls (4) Pagoda Point (5) Arthur’s Seat (6) Anna Park (7) The Grange Pagoda Point (8) Bear’s Cave (9) Shevaroyan Temple.

How to Reach

Nearest airport – Trichy; Rail: Salem (32 km); Yercud is connected by major cities of Tamil Nadu.

Chidambaram

Chidambaram situated 60 kms south of Pondicherry, and about 245 kms away from Chennai is most famous for the Nataraja Temple, depicting the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva, which is one of the oldest and loveliest temples of the Chola period.

Thanjavur (Tanjore)

Thanjavur was once the capital of the Chola dynasty and later of the Thanjavur Nayak and the Maratha rulers.The Cholas built most of the 93 odd temples here.One of the greates of the Chola emperors was Raja Raja (985 – 1014),who built the Brihadishwara Temple,Thanjavur’s main attraction.

Places of Interest


(1) Brihadishwara Temple (2) Thajavur Palace and Museum (3) The Raja Raja Chola Gallery(4) The Sangeeta Mahal.

How to Reach

Nearest airport: Trichy 60 km; Thanjavur is connected by rail with all major towns of Tamil Nadu; Tourists can travel by road to all major town of Tamil Nadu.

Hotel Accommodations: Hotel Parisutham, Hotel Oriental Towers, Hotel Sangam, Pandiyan Residency, Hotel Gnanam and Hotel Tamil Nadu.

Kumbakonam

This dusty, busy commercial town 37 km away fro Thanjavur is noted for its many temples with erotic sculptures. The most famous are the Brahma, Nageshwara, Kumbeshwara and Sarangapani temples.

Nagore

Burial place of the revered Muslim saint Hazat Meeras Sultan Syed Shahabdul Hameed, the village of Nagore is situated 12 km south of Karaikal.It is today an important pilgrim center especially for Muslims.

Velanganni

South of Karaikal, about 35kms away and 95 km from Thanjavur is the township of Velanganni, famous for the Roman Catholic Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health. People from all religions flock to the Church, many donating gold and silver models of cured body parts. There are frequent buses from Tanjavur, Chennai and many towns of Tamil Nadu.

Tiruchirappalli (Trichi)

Situated 55 kms from Thanjavur at the head of the Cauvery delta is this ancient town of Tiruchirappalli often referred to as Trichy or Tiruchy for short. The town and its fort, as it stands today, was built by Nayakas of Madurai.The Carnatic Wars between the British and the French were fought around this fort. Today, the city is a blend of history and tradition, a pilgrim center as well as a thriving commercial city.

Places of Interest

(1) Rock Fort Temple (2) Jambukeshwarar temple (3) St.John’s Church.

How to Reach

The airport is situated 8 kms from the town. Trichy is an important railway junction on the Chennai to Madurai and Chennai to Rameswaram lines. Tourists can travel by road to all major town of Tamil Nadu.

Hotel Accommodations: Hotel Sangam, Jenneys Residency, Femina Hotel, Hotel Anand, Hotel Royal Siuthern, and Ashbey Hotel.
Madurai

Madurai one of South India’s most ancient cities is situated on the banks of the Vaigai River.Madurai is believed to have been built by the Pandyan King Kulasekara.Madurai’s history can be divided into 4 periods, beginning over 2000 years ago, when it was the capital of the Pandyan Kings. The Meenakshi Temple in the heart of the old town is the supreme attraction here. A rightfully flamboyant example of Dravidian architecture it has gopurams covered from top to bottom with vibrant images of deities, animals and mythical figures. Its magnetism lures pilgrims and tourists here in hundreds of thousands, and it is estimated that on an average not less than 10000 visit here every day! Today Madurai is a lively bustling city and an important commercial hub of Tamil Nadu popular with travelers too.
Places of Interest


(1) Meenakshi Temple (2) Tirumalai Nayak Mahal (3) Gandhi Museum (4) Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam (5) Alagarkoil (6) Pazhamudirsholai.

How to Reach

The airport is situated 12 kms from the city center. Madurai is an important raiway junction of Southern Railway and is directly connected with Chennai and various cities of South India. Tourists can travel by road to all major town of Tamil Nadu.

Hotel Accommodations: Taj Garden Retreat, Hotel Madurai Ashok, Hotel Park Plaza, Hotel International, Fortune Pandiyan Hotel, Hotel Sulochana Palace, Hotel Supreme, Madura Park Inn, The Madurai Residency, Hotel Empee, Best Western Germanus, Royal Court.


Rameswaram

Often referred to as the ‘ Island of Prayer’ and also considered the Varanasi of the South India this major pilgrimage center is on an island in the Gulf of Mannar.Connected to the mainland by the majestic Indira Gandhi Bridge, one India’s engineering marvels, this small fishing village’s center of attraction is the Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the most important temples in South India.
Places of Interest

(1) Ramanathaswamy Temple (2) Kothandaramaswamy temple (3) The Gandhamathana Parvatham (4) Coral Reefs (5) Adam’s Bridge (6) Mandapam.

How to Reach

Rameswaram is connected by rail to both Madurai and Chennai.The nearest airport is at Madurai (167 kms). Tourists can travel by road to all major town of Tamil Nadu.

Hotel Accommodations: Hotel Tamil Nadu, Hotel Maharaja, Hotel Venkatesh, and Hotel Chola.

Kanyakumari (Kanniyakumari)

The southernmost tip of India, Kanyakumari is the point where three seas meet at the Bay of Bengal – the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. On the Chitra Pournima day (full moon day in April) on can witness the Sun and the Moon are face to face at the same horizon. A place of immense significance to Hindus, Kanyakumari is a major pilgrim center with devotees visiting it from all over India.
Places of Interest

(1) Kanyakumari or Kumariamman Temple (2) Vivekanand Memorial (3) Gandhi Memorial (4) Guganathaswamy Temple (5) Suchindram (6) Padmanabhapuram Palace.

How to Reach

Nearest airport – Thiruvananthapuram 80 km; Kanyakumari is connected by rail with Chennai, New Delhi, Tirunelveli and Thiruvananthapuram. Tourists can travel by road to all major towns of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Hotel Accommodations: Kerala House, Hotel Singaar International, Hotel Tamil Nadu, Hotel Sangam, Hotel Ganga, Hotel Maadhini and Hotel Manickan.

Kuttralam (Courtallam)

About 135 km out of Kanyakumari at the base of the Western Ghats is the popular family health retreat town of Kuttralam whose waterfalls are believed to be rich in mineral deposits and processing curative qualities. Bathing here under the falls is a truly revitalizing experience.
Kodaikanal

Situated on the southern crest of the Palani Hills at an altitude of 2100 m is this charming retreat of Kodaikanal, often referred to as Kodai for short. This is one of India’s most popular hill stations and is frequented by tourists throughout the year.

The hill town has the distinction of being the only one to be set up by the Americans during British colonial period and is famed for its Kodaikanal International School set up in 1901 by American Missionaries for European children, and is today one of the most prestigious private school in India.

The pride of Kodai is the ‘Kurunji’, a shrub with light purple coloured blossoms that flower only once every 12 years. The surrounding hills have plantations of Australian blue gums or Eucalyptus trees, which lend its unique fragrance to the air.
Places of Interest

(1) Kodaikanal lake (2) Astrophysical Laboratory (3) The Flora & Fauna Museum (4) Coaker’s Walk (5) Bryant Park (6) Green Valley View (7) Berijam Lake (8) Bison Wells

How to Reach

Tourists can travel by road to all major towns of Tamil Nadu.Kodai is very well connected by bus services to trichy, Kanyakumari, Coimbatore, Chennai and Balgalore.This nearest rail connection is at Palani to the north on the Coimbatore – Madurai – Rameswaram line. The nearest airport is Madurai 120 km away.

Hotel Accommodations: Bison Wells, Hotel Anjay, Hotel Astoria, Hotel Garden Manor, Hotel Hill Top, Hotel Jewel, Hotel Kodai International, Hotel Tamil Nadu, Kodai Resort Hotel, Lilly Valley Resort, Hotel Jai, The Carlton Hotel, The Nest, Valley View Hotel.

Coimbatore

Coimbatore called the ‘Manchester of South India’ is famous for its handloom products. It is also known for the manufacture of the centrifugal pump sets and is host of engineering goods. Situated at the opening of the Palghat Gap in the Western Ghats, Coimbatore has a pleasant climate right around the year.

Places of Interest

(1) Perur Temple (2) Maruthamalai Temple (3) V.O.C. Park (4) Anamalai or Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary (60 Km).

How to Reach

Coimbatore is connect by air with Chennai, Trichy, Calicut, Madurai and Mumbai.Coimbatore is a major railway junction and all trains connecting the rest of the country to Kanyakumari stop here. Tourists can travel by road to all major towns of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Hotel Accommodations: Heritage Inn, Sree Annapoorna Lodge, Hotel Surya International, Hotel City Tower, Nilgiris Nest, Resort Black Thunder, The residency, Hotel Tamil Nadu, Hotel Alankar, Hotel Seetharam.

Ooty (Udhagamandalam)

Ooty called the Queen of hill stations is located at the Nilgiri hills at 2240 meters above sea level. Botanical Gardens were established here in 1847. This 50­acre garden includes a variety of exotic ornamental plants. It is also a venue for the flower show held in May every year. There is a fossil tree trunk, which is 20 million years old. Artificial Lake was constructed in 1824 by Mr. John Sullivan, the then Collector of Coimbatore. Row and Motorboats, toy trains are available at the lake. Rose Garden covering an area of 10 acres inside Vijaya Nagar farm has about 1900 varieties of roses. Government Museum has items of tribal objects, ecological details and representative sculptural arts and crafts of Tamil Nadu. Deer Park houses sambar, chital, and hares besides water birds. The Mukurthi Peak and Mukurthi National Park contains viable population of nilgiri tahr. Fascinating feature of the Mukurthi sanctuary is its relationship with the Himalayan flora and fauna. Pykara, 21 km from Ooty, has Toda settlement well-protected fenced sholas, undisturbed grassy meadows and a rich wildlife habitat. The Pykara Dam and the reservoir attract many tourists. Dodabetta, 10 km from Ooty, lies on the junction of western and Eastern Ghats, offer beautiful vistas of the Nilgiri hill ranges. There is a telescope house run by the T.T.D.C. Avalanchi, 28 km from Ooty is a beautiful lake. There are places so dark and dense that even sunlight does not penetrate. Uppar Bhavani lies 20 km from Avalanchi, which is the area of undisturbed wildlife habitat. There are lots of trekking routes.

How to Reach

Coimbatore is the nearest airport. The miniature Blue Mount Railway is the best way to get here. Tourists can travel by road to all major towns of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala.

Hotel Accommodations: Hotel Charing Cross, Holiday Inn Gem Park, Hotel Dasaprakash, Hotel Durga, Hotel Khems, Hotel Nahar, Hotel Ooty International, Hotel Tamil Nadu, Nilgiri Woodlands Hotel, Savoy Hotel.

Mudumalai

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary & national park is situated at the trifurcation of the three southern states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and kerala. Part of the ‘Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve’, these 322 sq kms of tropical wilderness was established in 1932 and was the 1 st to be declared a national park. Easily accessible from both Ooty and Mysore, this place is a favorite among day-trippers who often unfortunately destroy the tranquility. The wild elephant, gaur, deer and primates like the bonnet macaque and langurs all inhabit the park. Riding elephants are the best means of transportation at Mudumalai and animals can also be watched from machans, which are strategically located near water holes and salt licks.

How to Reach

Frequent buses from both Ooty and Mysore ply through Theppakkadu every 20 to 30 minutes. The nearest airports are Coimbatore 135 km away and Bangalore 250 km away Trains are available from Ooty, Mysore and Bangalore.Tourists can travel by road to all major towns of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala.
Hotel Accommodations: Bamboo Banks, Jungle Trail Lodge, Forest Hills Guest House, Hotel Dreamland, Hotel Yamil Nadu, Jungle Hut Guest House, Jungle Retreat, The Monarch Safari Park.