links

Hotels of Cyprus
United Removers Home Moving Service - United Removers understand that every move is different and so we offer a uniquely personal and professional service.
Budapest Hotels: Apartment Hotel Budapest, Apartments, Accommodation in Budapest, Hungary Destination Budapest is an Online Accommodation & Hotel Reservation Service in Budapest. We provide selected accommodation such as Hotel, Apartment, Pension, and Hostel at affordable prices.

Hotel Budapest - Hostel Budapest: Hotel Rila - Rila Hostel Budapest - Hungary
Hotel** & Hostel Rila situated in the center of Budapest - Suggested for travelers searching for a budget Budapest Hotel - Perfect for tourists and backpackers looking for a cheap Youth Hostel in Budapest.

Art and Culture Tours In India

Indian Arts and Handicrafts are one the oldest cultures of the world. Exclusive in their style manifests the mood in Indian heritage.

Art and architecture
Art and Culture Tour Package India, India in both history and traditions is prehistoric. It has been an affluence of rich handiworks which form the naturally artistic behavior of the people of India.

Architecture and Sculpture
Religious patterns mainly encouraged the movements in Indian architecture and sculpture. But after independence, modern architecture in buildings came to India in a big way that changed that guide.

Carpet weaving
Indian Art and Culture, Kashmir is the most creative region for carpet weaving in India. The pattern of a carpet is governed by a module, the talim, which denotes the number directed by a module, the integer of knots per square inch and the colour scheme along the weft line of wool or silk, while the enfold is always in cotton.

Indian textile and handicrafts
Art and Culture Tours India, Indian textile is well-known industry as the significant ones are the Rajasthani bandhej and Bagru print. Jaipuri jutties are also has eminence. Different types of handwork make the country distinct from other countries.

Paintings
Art and Culture Tour Package India, Indian paintings include two major kinds: wall paintings and miniatures. The custom of painting in India goes back to ancient times, as is evident from the murals of Ajanta, Ellora and other frescoes, the Buddhist palm-leaf manuscripts, the Jain texts and the Deccan, Mughal and Kangra schools.

Dance
Indian Art and Culture, Indian dance is separated into nritya, the musical and rhythmic elements with expression and natya, the impressive element. The Indian folklore, ritual and traditional literature offer the themes of the Indian dance, both of the classical and folk type. The classical dance forms include Bharat Natyam, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Odissi and Kathak.

Music
Art and Culture Tour Package India, Music is the soul of the universe. In India, music has been categorized into two major tributaries acknowledged as the classical and folk. Some well-known personalities in this field are Bhimsen Joshi, Jasraj, M.S. Subbulakshmi, Dr. M. Bala Murali Krishna, Yamini Krishnamurthy, Sonal Mansingh, Swapna Sundari, Girish Karnad and B. Alkazi.

Literature
Indian Art and Culture, India has shaped great works of literature from the Vedas and Upanishads. Almost every foremost Indian language has a affluent practice of literature.

Theatre
In India, theatre is possibly as old as its music and dance. But traditional theatre in the country stayed alive only in some cities.

Music
Art and Culture Tour Package India, Music is the soul of the universe. In India, music has been categorized into two major tributaries acknowledged as the classical and folk. Some well-known personalities in this field are Bhimsen Joshi, Jasraj, M.S. Subbulakshmi, Dr. M. Bala Murali Krishna, Yamini Krishnamurthy, Sonal Mansingh, Swapna Sundari, Girish Karnad and B. Alkazi.

Literature
Indian Art and Culture, India has shaped great works of literature from the Vedas and Upanishads. Almost every foremost Indian language has a affluent practice of literature.

Theatre
In India, theatre is possibly as old as its music and dance. But traditional theatre in the country stayed alive only in some cities.

Sangeet Natak Academy
It was founded in 1953, the national academy of music, dance and drama (Sangeet Natak Academy) has performed the role of supporting study, broadcasting, admiration and benefaction of the performing arts.

Sports
Indian Art and CultureHockey is the national game of India, in which the country has an impressive record with eight Olympic gold medals. Additional popular sports are football, cricket, basketball, volleyball and badminton.

Indian Culture
Indian culture is prosperous and varied. Our manners, way of communicating with the other person are important ingredients of our culture. Even we have received modern means of living and improved our lifestyle but our values and beliefs still remain unchanged. Indian culture enlightens us to increase and distribute joy and happiness and allocate sadness and pain. Indian culture regards guests as god and attends them. Elders and the respect for elders is a major part in Indian culture. Respect one another is the other thing in Indian culture. In Indian culture the relation between the boss and the members of staff is more like homely relationships unlike foreign countries. Helpful nature is another remarkable feature in our Indian culture. From childhood, we are educated to help one another in need of assist and misery.

United Removers Home Moving Service - United Removers understand that every move is different and so we offer a uniquely personal and professional service.

Uttarachal Tours

Uttarachal Tours
Uttarachal is the 27 th state of Republic of India which came into existence on 9 th November 2000.Uttaranchal is one of the most beautiful, well preserved and enchanting places located in the northern part of India. Uttaranchal - the Devbhumi has attracted tourists and pilgrims from world over since time immemorial. The region is blessed with magnificent glaciers, majestic rivers, gigantic and ecstatic Himalayan peaks, natural biosphere, valley of flowers, skiing resorts and dense forests. Sacred pilgrimages of different religions including the Char Dham or the Hindu pilgrimage destinations Shri Badrinath ­Kedarnath-Gangotri- Yamunotri; the sacred Sikh pilgrimage of Hemkund - ­Lokpal, Nanakmatta and Meetha-etc. have drawn pilgrimages and seekers for spiritual fulfillment to Uttaranchal. This is the land where Vedas and Shastras were composed and the great Indian epic-The Mahabharata was written. The region has always been the source of inspiration for nature lovers and seekers of peace and spirituality.

Himalayas: The highest and the youngest mountain range on the earth, the Himalayas, from the northern border of the Indian sub­continent in Asia. To Sanskrit the name Himalaya means, "Abode of snow". In the heart of these- majestic mountains lies the state of Uttaranchal with Kumaon region in its east and Garhwal in the west. This mountainous region offers a wonderful panorama of high snow clad peaks. The Queen of Hills, Mussoorie, the lake district of India.Nainital, Kausani, Pauri, Landsdone, Raniket, Almora, Pithorgrah, Munsyari and many more attractive destinations are part of Uttaranchal.

Uttaranchal is a paradise for adventure sports. The sheerer variety from mountaineering (Bhagirathi, Chowkhamba, Nanda Devi, Kamet, Pindari, Sahastrataal, Milam, Kafni, Khading, Gaumukh), trekking, skiing (Auli, Dayara, Bugyal, Munsyari, Mundali), skating, water sports (in the lakes and rivers including the Tehri), to aero sports like hang gliding, paragliding (Pithorgraph, Jolly Grant, Pauri) make Uttaranchal one of the most attractive destinations for adventure sports not only in India but the world over.

Along with the world famous Corbett National Park, Uttaranchal has several breathtaking destinations for Wildlife Tourism. These are the Rajaji National Park, Govind Pashu Vihar, Asan Barrage, Chilla and Saptarishi Ashram, the last four being a delight for bird watchers.

Uttaranchal has a flora and fauna, which is diverse as well as rare. This makes Uttaranchal an ideal destination for eco-tourism including jungle safaris, trekking on forest trails, nature walks, catches and release Mahaseer and other fish spices (at Pancheshwar).

The Ganga and the Yamuna and sources of other rivers originate in Uttaranchal. Ganga-the most holy river represents the soul of India, her culture, history and civilization. There are several local fairs and festivals like Jhanda mela (Dehradun), Surkanda Devi Mela (Tehri), Magh Mela (Uttrakashi), Manna Devi Mela (Nainital), Chaiti Mela (Udham Singh Nagar), Purnagiri Mela (Champawat), Piran Kaliyar Mela (Bageshwar), indicative of the immense possibilities for cultural
tourism in Uttaranchal.

At a Glance

Area: 55,845 Sq.kms; Capital: Dehradun; Language: Hindi; Airports: Pantnagar – Naintal, Jolly Grant – Dehradun.

Hill Resorts

Almora (1646 m); Railhead –Katgodam 92 km; Chakrata (2138 m); Railhead – Dehradun 92 km; Kausani (1890 m); Railhead –Katgodam 142 km; Lansdowne (1829 m); Railhead – Kotdwra 40 km; Mussoorie (2000 m); Railhead – Dehradun 36 km; Nainital (1938 m); Railhead – Katgodam 35 km; Pithoragarh (1815 m); Railhead – Tanakpur 151 km; Raniket (778 m); Railhead – Katgodam 84 km; Tehri (778 m); Railhead – Rishikesh 82 km.
Pilgrim Centers

Badrinath – Kedarnath – Joshimath – Gangotri – Yamunotri – Gomukh – Hemkund – Panchapyrayag, Hardwar, Rishikesh.

Dehradun

Nestled in a wide and thickly forested valley of the Shivalik ranges, Dehradun is known' for its Salubrious climate. Once a stronghold of Garhwal kings and later appropriated by the British as a residential resort, the town has several institutions and public schools. Dehradun is famous for its fruit orchards.

Places of Interest

(1) Forest Research Institute (2) Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (3) Robber’s Cave.

How to Reach

Nearest airport is Jolly Grant 24 km. Dehradun is directly connected by rail with New Delhi, Howrah, Varanasi and Allahabad.Tourist can travel by road to all major centers of Uttaranchal and rest of India. There are regular buses operated by private and UP Government from Delhi (225 km), Haridwar (54 km), Rishikesh (43 km). Agra (382 km), Shimla (221 km). Yamunotri (174 km). Kedamath (274 km). Nainital (297 km).

Hotel Accommodations: Hotel Madhuban, Hotel President, Hotel Relax, Hotel Great Value, Hotel Hilton, Indralok Hotels, Hotel Drona, Hotel Nishima, Hotel Meedo, Hotel White House, Hotel Gaurab, Motel Himshri, Hotel Meedo’s Grand.

Rishikesh

Situated 24 km upstream from Haridwar, at the confluence of the Chandrabhaga and Ganga, Rishikesh has long been a spiritual center. It is said that the sage Raibhya Rishi did severe penance here and as a reward, God appeared to him in the form of Hrishikesh, hence the name. Rishikesh has numerous Ashrams, some of which are internationally recognized as center of philosophical studies, yoga and meditation.

Places of Interest

(1) Triveni Ghat (2) Lakshman Jhoola (3) Shivananad or Ram Jhoola.

Badrinath

Badrinath is considered the holiest of the main four shrines of Uttarakhand and is one of the four Dhams. A devout Hindu has to visit it in his lifetime to attain salvation. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and was built about two centuries ago by kings of Garwal. The temple is divided into three parts-the Garbha, the Darshan 'Mandap and Sabha Mandap. The principal idol is of black stone and represents Vishnu seated in a meditative pose and flanked by Nara-Narayana TAPT KUND and SURYA KUND are famous springs of sulphurous water with 55 C.A dip, considered holy and refreshing the body as well as soul, is a must before offering prayers to Shri Badrinathji.

How to Reach

Nearest airport is Jolly Grant (Dehradun) 18 km. Rishikesh is directly connected by rail via Haridwar which is on the main route to Mumbai, Lucknow, Kalka, Sri Ganganagar New Delhi, Howrah, Varanasi and Allahabad.Tourist can travel by road to all major centers of Uttaranchal and rest of India. There are regular buses operated by private and UP Government from Delhi (238 km), Haridwar (24 km), Yamunotri (288 km). Kedamath (228 km), Dehradun (42 km), Mussoorie (77 km), Gangotri (258 km), Uttarkashi (154 km), Badrinath (301 km) and Chandigarh (252 km).

Hotel Accommodations: Hotel Ganga Kinare, Hotel Natraj, Hotel Mandakini International, Hotel Indralok, Hotel Akash Ganga, Green Hotel, Hotel Brijwasi Palace, and Hotel Rajdeep.

Kedarnath

Kerarnath, at the head of the Mandakini River, is amongst the holiest pilgrimage for the devout Hindu.Kedarnath temple built in the 8 th century AD is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Gangotri

Gangotri is one of the Char Dham of Uttarakhand.It is situated in Garhwal Himalayas at an elevation of 3048 meters.

Yamunotri

One of the four sacred dhams of Uttarakhand and revered in Hindu mythology Yamunotri is the source of Yamuna River. The Yamunotri shrine stands on the western flanks of the Bandarpunch peak (20,731 ft).
Mussoorie

Mussoorie lies 38 km from Dehradun. Mussoorie offers views of both the Himalayan ranges to the north and the Shivalik hills and plains to the south. This erstwhile aristocratic resort is now a popular hill station and promises a variety of entertainment round the year. BHADRAJ TEMPLE is dedicated to Lord Balbhadra, brother of Shri Krishna. GUN HILL is known for ropeway ride and offers a beautiful view of the Himalayan ranges. MUNICIPAL GARDEN is a picnic spot and has artificial lake for boating. The MUSSOORIE LAKE is a delightful spot where paddleboats are available. It commands an enchanting view of the Doon Valley; GEORGE EVEREST HOUSE ­ The park estate of Sir George, the first Surveyor-General of India, who had his office and residence here, 8 km from Mussoorie. Mt.Everest, the highest peak of the Himalayas is named after him; KEMPTY FALLS -15 km from Mussorie is a picturesque waterfall at an altitude of 4500 ft; SURKHANDA DEVI – 35 km is an important pilgrimage center. The temple is located atop the hill. ASAN BARRAGE – 42 km is a water sport resort with water skating sailing boating facilities.
Hotel Accommodations : Hotel Clark’s, Hakman’s Grand Hotel, Hotel Horizon, Hotel Raghushree, Hotel Kasmanda, Carlton’s Plaisance Hotel, Hotel Padmini Nivas, Savoy Hotel.

Auli

Auli, 16 km from Joshimath nestles in the lap of the snow – capped peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas and is an ideal ski resort with its slopes comparable to the best in the world.
Nainital

At 1938 m, this attractive hill station was once the summer capital of Uttar Pradesh and is the largest town in Kumaon. The Kuman hills have long been known for their idyllic beauty. Nainital, a most beautiful resort of north India is a beautiful settlement around a blue green lake – Naini from which the town takes its name. Nainital offers varieties of adventure sports as well as popular entertainment. This hill resort can be enjoyed at any time of the year.
How to Reach

Nearest airport – Nainital (Pantnagar); Nearest railway station – Kathagodam which is connected by meter gauge to Agra, Bareilly and Lucknow. Tourist can travel by road to all major centers of Uttaranchal and rest of India.

Hotel Accommodations: Hotel Gauri Niwas,Hotel Prashant,Hotel Elphinstone,Hotel Grand, Hotel City Heart, Royal Hotel, Swiss Hotel.

Ranikhet

50 km from Nainital. Situated at 1829 meters offers interesting mix of hill and military culture. It is an ideal holiday resort. Golf course, the orchards of Chaubatia and Jhoola Devi Temple are the palaces of interest. Ranikhet has forests of Oak wood, pine and is a fine place to enjoy a panoramic view of the Himalayas. Golf course is the main attraction of the city.

Almora

90km from Nainital.) Situated at an elevation of 5400 ft in the Kumaon Hills Almora is known for its healthy climate. The town was founded about 1560 AD by Balo Kalyan Chand, Raja of Champavat, who later made it the capital of Chand kingdom. Almora is the cultural centre of Kumaon district and a picturesque mountain resort.
Kausani

180 km from Nainital. A scenic hill station-compared with Switzerland, in the Himalayas is located at 53 Ian north of Almora. It is also the birthplace of Hindi Poet Sumitra Nandan Pant. Mahatma Gandhi stayed at Anasaki Ashram, which offers a good resting place for travellers.

Haridwar

Haridwar is associated with both Lord Shiva as well as Lord Vishnu. It is among the seven sacred cities of India. Haridwar is situated on the right bank of the holy Ganga and is the point where the river spreads over the northern plain. It is also one of the four venues for the Kumbha Mela held in its magnitude every twelfth year. Essentially a religious centre which holds the promise of salvation for devotees, it is also a centre of herbal medicines and traditional studies at Gurukul kangri.

Main places of interest are CHAND! DEVI temple, BHARAT MATA temple; SHANIKUNJ; MAYA DEVI temple, BHIMGODA, MANSA DEVI temple; PAWAN DHAM; VAISHNO DEVI temple.

HARI-KI-PAIRI-Most important ghat on the Ganga River, where a holy dip is a must for every devotee. The Ganga Arati performed every evening is a spectacular sight when thousands of lighted lamps are set afloat the river.

How to Reach

Nearest airport - Jolly Grant, Dehradun 35 km; Haridwar is connected directly by train with Mumbai, Delhi, Varanasi, Allahabad, Lucknow, and Kalka. Tourist can travel by road to all major centers of Uttaranchal and rest of India.

Hotel Accommodations: Hotel Himgiri, Hotel Arati, Hotel Deluxe, Hotel Shiva, Hotel Mansarovar, Hotel Mayur, Hotel Marwari Niwas, Hotel Teerth, Hotel Alpana, Hotel Ashok, Sagar Ganga Resort.

Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve

Corbett Tiger Reserve was established in 1936 as India's first national park by the legendary tiger-hunter, Jim Corbett, who put Kumaon on the map with his book The Man-Eaters of Kumaon. Held in awe by local villagers for shooting tigers who had developed a taste for human flesh, the British hunter was nevertheless one of the first people in India to realize that tiger numbers were declining. With the help of UP governor Sir Johns Hewett, Corbett was instrumental in setting up the Hailey Na­tional Park, which was renamed Corbett National Park in 1957. With the inclusion of the Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary to the west, the park now covers 1318 sq km, which may grow further if the planned mi­gration corridor to nearby Rajaji National Park is ever completed.

United Removers Home Moving Service - United Removers understand that every move is different and so we offer a uniquely personal and professional service.

Manipur Tourism

About Maipur

The word Manipur literally means a 'jeweled town', a name that rightly justifies the small and picturesque land. The people here are very polite and hospitable. Rich in its culture, tradition, and ethnicity, Manipur is one of the seven northeastern states of India. The Raasleelas and the classical dance of Manipur hold a very significant position in the cultural map of India. With sites like the Loktak Lake and the Khonghampat Orchidarium, Manipur is also famous for its natural beauty.

LOCATION

Manipur is situated in the northeastern part of India. Manipur is bordered on its north by Nagaland; on its east lies Myanmar (Burma). The southern part is bordered by the state of Mizoram, while the green valleys of Assam bound the western part.

Manipur has a low-lying basin in its center surrounded by high-range mountains that sometimes reach up to a height of about 2000 meters.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The climate of Manipur varies from the tropical to sub-alpine types. The summer months here are moderately hot and the winters comfortable.

HISTORY

Manipur always used to be independent of its neighboring tribal areas. Though often invaded by Burma, the state usually enjoyed long and stable governments for a good time. Manipur became a part of British India following the Yandaboo treaty with the East India Company in 1826. This treaty was an agreement at the end of the Indo-Burmese war that established the sovereignty of the British government. During the World War II, the Japanese forces marched to Manipur. It was given the status of a full-fledged state in 1972.

FAIRS & FESTIVALS

The festivals of Manipur hold special importance to the people of the state. Most of their festivals are characterized by traditional dance and music along with some traditional refreshment. Yaosang is a festival celebrated on the full-moon day of February/March. This festival is also regarded as the festival to welcome spring season. Moreover, there are festivals like the Manipuri New Year celebration known as the Cheirouba and the festival to reassure the loving relationship of the siblings known as Ningol Chakaouba. Kut is another festival that marks the harvesting season in Manipur. Feasts, traditional drinks, and merrymaking characterize the festival.

TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS

Manipur has a lot to offer to the tourists visiting this state. Some of the places worth visiting are the Shree Govindajee Temple (a pilgrimage as well as historic center of the Vaishnavite), Kaina (a sacred place of Hindus), Khwairamand Bazaar (a market place run by women), Manipur Zoological Garden (renowned for the rare sangai deer), apart from the beautiful Loktak Lake and Sendra Island. Besides, Langthabal (historic sites), Moirang, Moreh, Phubala, Singda, Khongjom, Sahid Mandir, Khonghampat Orchidarium, Keibul Lamjao National Park, Sekta Archeological Living Museum, and the Manipur State Museum are surely worth a visit.

HOW TO REACH

BY AIR - The capital of Manipur, Imphal, is well connected with the rest of the country by air. Imphal connects the place with Guwahati, Delhi, and Calcutta.

BY RAIL - As Manipur has no railway network, the nearest railhead to reach Manipur is Silchar in Assam.

BY ROAD - Manipur is well linked with the rest of the country by both national and state highways. The state transport corporation plies regular scheduled buses from Imphal to the other cities in the region.

WHERE TO STAY

We offer excellent accommodation facilities in and around Manipur.
Manipur Tourism provides complete information about tourism in Manipur. Tourism-of-India.com offers various tour packages to make your visit comfortable. You can pick the one that suits you most.


United Removers Home Moving Service - United Removers understand that every move is different and so we offer a uniquely personal and professional service.

Goa Tourism

Goa India Tourism
About Goa

Goa traces its history to a very ancient period. It was known as Gopakpattan or Gomant in the Bhimparva of the Mahabharata and as Govanpuri in the Sutra-Samhita. Ptolemy, the great geographer, astronomer and mathematician of Alexandria (2nd century AD) refers to Goa as Gouba. Goa was under the Satavahanas from the 2nd century BC, thereafter under the sway of the western Kshetrapas from 150 AD. Chalukyas of Badami ruled over it for over 200 years from 540 AD. Then Rashtrakutas dominated the area from 753 AD to 797 AD. Kadambas of Goa replaced them and ruled over Goa from 1008 AD to 1300 AD. Goa at that time became a great centre of maritime trade. Thereafter Goa came under the control of Yadavas of Devagiri, Delhi Sultans (1336 to 1378 AD), Vijaynagar rulers (1378 to 1470 AD), Bahamani sultans of Deccan and later the Adilshahis of Bijapur (1470 to 1515 AD)

After the discovery of the sea route to India by Vasco-da-Gama in 1498, many Portuguese expeditions came to India. In 1510, Afonso de Albuquerque with the help of the emperor of Vijaynagar attacked and captured Goa. With the arrival of the Jesuit Saint Francisco Xavier in 1542 began proselytisation in Goa. However, the Portuguese continued to rule over the territory except for an interlude during the later half of the 17rb century when Shivaji conquered a few areas in and around Goa. Even after India's independence, Goa continued to remain in the hands of die Portuguese. However, they could not fulfill the aspirations of Goa people and ultimately on 19 December 1961, Goa was liberated and made a composite Union Territory with Daman and Diu. On 30 May 1987 Goa was conferred Statehood and Daman and Diu made a separate Union Territory.

Goa is a land of golden beaches tucked away between the hills of the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea. Its land is covered with groves of cashews, mango and coconut, and is edged by long sunny beaches. A languid tropical climate, a gentle people it is popular for local liquor feni. Which beach beach you opt for when you arrive largely depends on what sort of holiday you have in mind. More developed resorts such as Calangute and Baga in the north, and Colva and Benaulim in the south, offer more "walk­ in“ accommodation and tourist facilities than elsewhere. Even if you're looking for a less touristy scene, it can be worth heading for these centres first, as finding places to stay in less commercialized corners is often difficult. Anjuna , Vagator, and Chapora, where accommodation is generally more basic and harder to come by, are the beaches to aim for if you've come to Goa to party. However, the bulk of budget travellers taking time out from tours of India end up in Palolem, in the far south, or Arambol, both beyond the increasingly long reach of the charter buses. That said, Palolem, in particular, has become a resort in its own right, with thousands of long-stay visitors in peak season.
Panaji (Panjim) and Central Goa

Panaji, the capital of Goa is a small town, laid out on a grid pattern overlooked by the Altinho (hill) to the south, which offered defensive advantages. The riverside boulevard (Devanand Bandodkar Marg) runs from the new Patto Bridge, past the jetties, to the formerly open fields of Campal. Along it there are some of the town's main administrative buildings.
Palolem Beach,Goa,India
Palces of Interest


Palces of Interest

(1) Idalcao Palace (2) Abbe Faria (3) Braganza Institute; Largo Da Igreja; Church of Immaculate Conception (4) Jama Masjid (5) St.Thome (6) Mint (7) Sebastian Chapel.
Beaches

(1) Miramar (2) Dona Paula (3) Vainguinim


Palolem Beach,Goa,India
Palces of Interest

(1) Idalcao Palace (2) Abbe Faria (3) Braganza Institute; Largo Da Igreja; Church of Immaculate Conception (4) Jama Masjid (5) St.Thome (6) Mint (7) Sebastian Chapel.
Beaches

(1) Miramar (2) Dona Paula (3) Vainguinim

Old Goa – Velha Goa

A one-time byword for splendour with a population of several hundred thousand, Goa's erstwhile former capital, OLD GOA, was virtually abandoned following malaria and cholera epidemics from the seventeenth century onwards. Today you need considerable imagination to picture the once-great capital as it used to be. The maze of twisting streets, piazzas and ochre-washed villas has gone, and all that remains is a score of cream-painted churches and convents. Granted World Heritage Status by UNESCO, Old Goa today attracts busloads of foreign tourists from the coast, and Christian pilgrims fie around India, in roughly equal numbers. While the former come to admire to gigantic facades and gilt altars of the beautifully preserved churches, the main attraction for the latter is the tomb of St Francis Xavier, the renowned sixteenth-century missionary, whose remains are enshrined in the Basilica of Born Jesus.
Palces of Interest

(1) The Tomb of St.Francis Xavier in the magnificent Cathedral of Bom Jesus. (2) Arch of the Viceroys and the Church of St.Cajetan (3) The Se (St.Catherine’s Cathedral (4) The Archbishop’s Palace (5) The Church of St.Francis of Assisi and Archeological Museum.

Calangute Beach,Goa,India
North Goa

Beyond the mouth of the Mandovi estuary, the Goan coast sweeps north in a near-continuous string of beaches, broken only by the odd saltwater inlet, rocky headland, and three tidal rivers. Goa beaches are among the best in the world. Calangute and Candolim are the two beaches at a distance of the 15km from Panaji.Once Calangute was the paradise of the Hippies.Baga beach is 2km north of Calangute and is a favourite tourist spot.

Palces of Interest

Fort Aguada: The Fort, built in 1612,at a distance of 19km from Panaji at the mouth of Mandovi river had the first lighthouse in Asia equipped with a room for ammunition, barracks and a church. It was a place of strength and power. It houses a jail today.

Main Beaches

(1) Calangute (2) Baga (3) Candolim (4) Anjuna (5) Vagator (6) Chapora (7) Arambol
Mapusa

Mapusa stands on a long ridge, which runs east west, fertile agricultural land occupying the flat valley floor rights up to the edge of the town. Mapusa is known for beautiful gardens and houses. Panaji to Mapusa covering a distance of 13 km.

South Goa
Ponda
Ponda is surrounded by hills on all sides and has many Hindu temples.

Madgaon Or Margaon
Madgaon is the commercial capital of Goa, capital of the Salcete province. It is well connected by rail and road. Madgaon is famous for its well-maintained gardens and beautiful houses. The king of the beached the Colva Beach is located at a distance of 2km from Madgaon (40 km from Panaji). Benaulim Beach is 2 km south of Colva.Other important beaches are Varca Beach and Betul Beach.

Vasco Da Gama

Vasco is 31 km from Panaji.The only airport of Goa is located at the fringe of Vasco city.

Hotel Accommodation: Cidade De Goa Beach Resort, Fort Aguada Beach Resort, Four Seasons Leela Beach Resort, Goa Renaissance Resort, Holiday Inn Resort, Sarovar Park Plaza Resort, Hotel La Paz Garden, Hotel Mondovi, Nanu Resort, Hotel Nova Goa, Hotel Prainha, Ronil Beach Resort, Sea Queen Beach Resort.


United Removers Home Moving Service - United Removers understand that every move is different and so we offer a uniquely personal and professional service.

Maharashtra Tourism

Maharashtra, the great land as the name itself suggests, has great di versity of riches to offer to the tourists. Overlooking the vast expanses of the Arabian Sea on one side, Maharashtra is a strong blend of very tra ditional and very contemporary, each co-existing with the other with the surp rising ease.
History

The first well-known rulers of Maharashtra were the Satvahanas (230 BC to 225 AD) who were the founders of the Maharashtra and have left a plethora of literary, epigraphic, artistic and archaeological evidence. Then came the Vakatakas who established a pan-Indian empire. Under them Maharashtra witnessed an all-sided development in the fields of learning, arts and religion. Some of the Ajanta caves and fresco paintings reached high-level mark during their rule. After the Vakatakas and after a brief interlude of the KaIachuri dynasty, the most important rulers were the Chalukyas followed by the Rashtrakutas and the Yadavas apart from the Shilaharas on the coast. The Yadavas, with Marathi as their court language, extended their authority over parts of the Deccan

While the Bahamani rule brought a degree of cohesion to the land and its culture a uniquely homogeneous evaluation of Maharashtra, as an entity became a reality under the able leadership of Shivaji. With the rise of Shivaji, Maharashtra entered a new phase in history. Shivaji welded the Marathas into a powerful nation and become the rulers. The Peshwas who succeeded Shivaji built up a Maratha empire, which extended from GwaIior in the north to Tanjore in the south. The Maratha power received a set back at Panipat in 1761 AD when the Afghan ruler Ahmed Shah AbdaIi routed the Maratha forces. They recovered only to confront the British power and were decisively defeated in 1818 AD. After this defeat Maharashtra settled down as part of the Bombay Presidency under the British administration till Independence in 1947.

The administrative evolution of the State of Maharashtra is bringing together all contiguous Marathi – speaking areas, formed the outcome of the linguistic re-organization of the States in India, affected on May 1,1960.

Area: 3,07,690 Sq.km; Capital: Mumbai; Language: Marathi; Airports: Mumbai, Amravati, Baramati, Chandrapur, Dhule, Gondia, Jalgaon, Karad, Kolhapur, Kinwat, Latur, Nanded, Osmanabad, Phaltan, Ratnagiri, Sangli, Sholapur, Nasik, Pune and Yatmal.

Hill Resorts: Lonavala – Khandala (625m), Mahabaleshwar (1372 m), Matheran (803 m), Panhala (831 m).

Popular Places: Mumbai (Bombay), Aurangabad, Ajanta, Ellora, Kolhapur, Nasik, Pune.

Mumbai (Bombay)

Mumbai is home to people of all Indian creeds and cultures, a fascinating city, throbbing with life and for many people ‘Gateway to India’. Mumbai is a group of seven islands (Colaba, Mahim, Mazgaon, Parel, Worli, Girgaum, and Dongri) whose inhabitants, the Kolis have given the city its Indian name Mumbai, after their Goddess Mother Mumba Aai.
Places of Interest

(1) Gateway of India (2) Hanging Gardens and Kamala Nehru Park on Malabar Hill (3) The Queens Necklace (4) Haji Ali Tomb and Mosque (5) Mani Bhawan (6) Prince of Walles Museum (7) Juhu Beach (8) Kanheri Caves (9) Elephanta Caves.

Hotel Accommodation: Hotel Centaur, Leela Kempinski, The Oberoi, The Oberoi Tower, The Taj Mahal Hotel, Centaur Airport, Holiday Inn, The president Hotel, Ramada Hotel, Hotel Sea Princes, Sun – N – Sand Hotel, Hotel Bawa International, Mercure Hotel Guestline, Fariyas Hotel, Hotel Midtown, Ritz Hotel, Sands Hotel, Hotel Airlink, Hotel Accord, Hotel Diplomat, Garden Hotel.
Aurangabad

The present city of Aurangabad was founded by Malik Ambar, Prime Minister of Murtaza Nizam II, in 1610 AD around khirki village. Aurangzeb renamed it Aurangabad.

Places of Interest

(1) Aurangabad Caves (2) Bibi – Ka - Maqbara (3) Pan Chakki (4) Daulatabad (5) Bani Begum Gardens.

Hotel Accommodation: Hotel President, Hotel Ambassador, Taj Residency, Welcome Group Rama International, Hotel Aurangabad, Hotel Amarpreet.

Ajanta

Early in the 19th century a party of British officers scrambling over the thickly wooded slopes of the Sahyadri hills discovered these caves buried under debris and screened by foliage. Strung out in a sweeping horseshoe shape in an inner fold of the hills, the caves were a secluded retreat for Buddhist monastic orders and yet offered easy access to the trade routes that swung past here to the coast. With little more than hammer and chisel but with a deep faith inspiring them, these simple monks excavated chaityas, chapels for prayer and viharas, monasteries where they lived and taught and carried out ritual performances. The 29 caves at Ajanta, some unfinished, span a period of 800 years and contain numerous images of Lord Buddha. They depict the story of Buddhism, spanning the period from 200 BC to 650 BC.

Cave 1 houses some of the most well preserved wall paintings, which include two great Boddhisattvas, Padrnapani and Avaloketeshwara. Cave 2, 16 and 17 also contain amazing paintings, while caves 1, 4, 17, 19, 24 and 26 boasts of some of the most divine sculptures. The flying Apsara of cave 17 and the image of Buddha preaching in cave 17, are a couple of unforgettable works of art. In their range of times and treatment the paintings of Ajanta are a panorama of life in ancient India.

Ellora

The cave temples and monasteries at Ellora, excavated out of the vertical face of an escarpment, are 26 km north of Aurangabad.Extending in a linear arrangement, the 34 caves contain Buddhist Chaityas, or halls of worship, and Viharas, or monasteries, Hindu and Jain temples. Spanning a period of about 600 years between the 5 th and 11 th centuries. AD, the earliest excavation here is of the Dhumar Lena (Cave 29). The sculpture in the Buddhist caves accurately convey the nobility, grace and serenity inherent in the Buddha. Caves 6 and 10 houses images from the Buddhist and Hindu faith, under the same roof, the latter dedicated to Vishvakarma, the patron saint of Indian craftsmen. The Vishvakarma cave is both a Chaitya and a Vihara, with a seated Buddha placed in the stupa. Its two-storied structure sports a colourfu1 pageant of dwarfs, dancing and making music. The Kailasa temple in cave 16 is an architectural wonder, the entire structure have been carved out of a monolith, the process taking over a century to ­ finish. This mountain-abode of Lord Shiva is in all probability, the world's largest monolith, the gateway, pavilion, assembly hall sanctum and tower, all hewn out of a single rock.

The Jain caves are about a mile away from the Kailasa temple, amongst ­which cave 32, houses a beautiful shrine adorned with fine carvings of a lotus flower on the roof, and a yakshini on a lion under a mango tree, while cave 32 and 34 contain grand statues of Parasnath. The other Jain caves sport the images of Tirthankaras and one of them, also has a figure of Mahavira.

Kolhapur

Kolhapur is located on the Panchganga River nestling along the Sahyadi ranges surrounded by hillocks and fortresses, woven around the temple of Goddess Mahalakshmi built in the 9 th century.
Places of Interest

(1) The Mahalakshmi Temple (2) The New Palace – Shree Chhatrapati Shahi Museum (3) The Town Hall Museum (4) The Old Palace (5) Binkhambi Ganesh Mandir (6) Rankala Lake.
Nasik
Nasik is a bustling township with an interesting blend of the ancient and the modern.
Places of Interest

(1) Ramkund (2) Muktidham Temple (3) Coin Museum (4) Kalaram Temple (5) Andavleni.

Hotel Accommodation: Hotel Panchavati, Hotel Panchavati Elite Inn, and Hotel Panchavati Yatri.

Pune

Pune was home for a long time to the Maratha leader Shivaji.It later become capital of the Peshwas.The British captures the city after the battle of Koregaon in 1818 AD. One of the city’s most famous residents was the self proclaimed Guru, Bhagwan Rajneesh, later known as Osho.Although the died in 1990,the ashram he had set up in Pune still attracts thousands of devotees, sightseers, curious onlookers despite lot of controversy.
Places of Interest

(1) Kasturba Samadhi in the Aga Khan’s Palace (2) Parvati Hill (3) Shanwarwada (4) Shinde’s Chattri (5) Raja Kelkar Museum.
Hotel Accommodation: Le Meridien, Hotel Holiday Inn, Hotel Blue Diamond, Hotel Panchshil, and Hotel Sagar Plaza.


United Removers Home Moving Service - United Removers understand that every move is different and so we offer a uniquely personal and professional service.

Haryana Tourism

Haryana Travel

Haryana was once part of Punjab and was separated in 1966 to be made an independent State. The hard working people made it self-supporting in a short time through agriculture.” THE GREEN LAND". Department of tourism and Haryana Government started gaining importance in modem tourism promoting adventure tourism in big way and Hayrana Tourism repeatedly won awards from P.A.T.A. and T.A.A.I.
History

Haryana has a proud history going back to the Vedic Age. The State was the home of the legendary Bharata dynasty, which has given the name Bharat to India. Haryana finds mention in the great epic of Mahabharata. Kurukshetra, the scene of the epic battle between the Kauravas and the Pandavas is situated in Haryana. The State continued to playa leading part in the history of India, till the advent of the Muslim and the rise of Delhi as the imperial capital of India. Thereafter, Haryana functioned as an adjunct to Delhi and practically remained anonymous till the first war of India's Independence in 1857. When the rebellion was crushed and the British administration was re-established, the Nawabs of Jhajjar and Bahadurgarh, Raja of Ballabgarh and Rao Tula of Rewari of the Haryana region were deprived of their territories. Their territories were either merged with the British territories or handed to the rulers of Patiala, Nabha and Jind. Haryana thus became a part of Punjab province. With the reorganization of Punjab on November 1, 1966, Haryana was made a full-fledged independent State.

Haryana lies on the crossroads of North India. All main routes to Delhi go through this state has taken advantage of this fact and built hotels, motels and resorts and restaurants on the Delhi –Agra; Delhi Jaipur; Delhi-Amritsar and Delhi-Fazilka highways.

Major Cities: Chandigarh, Surajkund, Sultanpur, Rohtak, Hansi, and Sirsa.
Chandigarh

Chandigarh was conceived and born in the 1950 and was the master plan of the European modernist architect Le Corbusier.No other Indian city feels quite like this one. Indians are very proud of it and it’s the cleanest and healthiest city in the country.

Hotel Accommodations : Panchayat Bhavan, Hotel Satyadeep, Chandigarh Yatri Nivas, Hotel Jullundur, Amar, Hotel Alankar, Hotel Kwality Regency, Aroma Hotel, Hotel Sunbeam, Hotel Piccadilly, Hotel Mountview.
Places of Interest

(1) Badkal Lake (2) Dabchick (Hodal) (3) Karna Lake (Uchana) (4) Magpie (Faridabad) (5) Saras (Samdama Lake) (6) Sohna (7) Skylark (Panipat) (8) Yadavindra Gardens (9) Surajkund.
Airport: Chandigard, Hisar, Jind and Karnal.


United Removers Home Moving Service - United Removers understand that every move is different and so we offer a uniquely personal and professional service.

Punjab Tours

Punjab Travels>
Punjab is a State of traditional hospitality proud heritage and captivating grandeur. This rich abundant region with its fun-loving people offers so many visual- spiritual and culinary – delights to the tourists. Despite centuries of persecution and conflict, Punjab, with double the average income per capita and the highest consumption of alcohol in India, is a prosperous state. Many of its sights, sounds and smells are often strangely familiar to Westerners who have sampled Indian culture at home and the turbaned Sikhs have unwittingly become a symbol of India.

History

Ancient Pinjab, the land of the Vedas, Indus Valley Civilisation, Taxila University, of milk and honey, art and artifacts, rich agriculture formed a part of the Persian Empire in 522 BC when king Darius had occupied it. In 322 BC Alexander had entered India through Punjab. In later years it saw the rise and fall of the Mauryans, Dactrians, Greeks, Sakas, Kushans and Guptas.The medieval Punjab saw the supremacy of the Muslims.15 th and 16 th centuries mark a period of watershed in the history of Punjab. It was Guru Gobind Singh, the 10 th Guru, who transformed the Sikhs into the Khalsa.But soon after his death Raj based on secularism on account of internal intrigues and British mechanization. After two abortive Anglo-Sikh wars, Punjab was finally annexed to the British empire in 1849.Punjab was constituted as a separate province of India in 1937.With the partition of India Punjab was divided between India and Pakistan as East Punjab and West Punjab.

At A Glance

Area: 50,362 sq.km; Capital: Chandigarh; Language: Punjabi; Airports: Amritsar andChandigarh; Popular Places: Amritsar, Jalandhar, Anandpur Sahib, Ludhiana, Sirhind, Patiala, Bathinda, Faridkot, Firozpur, Pathankot.
Amritsar

The home of the world famous Golden Temple founded by Guru Ramdas, the 4 th Guru of the Sikhs, in 1579 and completed by Guru Arjun Dev who also enshrined in it the holy book of his successor Sikhs the Guru Granth Sahib. In 1803,the renowned Maharaja Ranjit Singh, covered the lower half of the temple with marble and the upper half was encrusted later with pure gold leaf which has given the name Golden Temple.Amritsar is the most important seat of Sikh history and culture, trade center and also the gateway for travelers coming to India on the overland route through Pakistan.

Places of Interest

(1) Golden Temple (2) Jallianwalla Bagh (3) Baba Atal Rai Tower.

How to reach : Amritsar is connected by air with Delhi and Chandigarh.You can travel by rail to Bhopal, Delhi, Howrah, Jaipur, Lahore, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nanded, Patna, Tatanagar and Vadodara.Amritsar is connected by road with all major cities of Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh.
Hotel Accommodations: Hotel Mohan International, Hotel Ritz Plaza, Hotel Suncity Tower, Hotel Astoria, and Grand Hotel.

Anandpur Sahib

One of Sikhism’s holiest sites with a number of historic gurdwaras, Anandpur Sahib has been a pilgrimage site for over 300 years. Anandpur Sahib, which lies 75km northwest of Chandigarh, can be reached by road or train. Gurdwara Kesgarh Sahib is a large gurdwara and the spot where the Khalsa was born.
Ludhiana

Ludhiana is famous in the world for its hosiery goods. The textiles center of India, Ludhiana the site of great battles during the First Sikh War. The archaic, bureaucratic muddle of the offices of the old law courts is worth a look.

Sirhind

Standing amidst the ruins of beautiful mosques and tombs, Sirhind was an important city during the Mughal period. It is an important site of pilgrimage for Sikhs and Sunni Muslims. Most trains between Delhi and Amritsar stop here.
Patiala

About 35km south of Sirhind is Patiala, which was once the capital of an independent Sikh state. Off the main tourist route, it is a city of palaces and gardens. One of the largest palaces in Asia, Motibagh Palace is a mish – mash of European, Mughal and Hindu styles surrounded by lawns and gardens. The Punjab Government Archives in the Baradari complex has a rich collection of manuscripts. The palace is at the south end of Mall Road. There are hotels and restaurants in the town center and local buses link Patiala with local towns and train stations.

Bathinda

The railway line from Delhi passes through Bathinda, which was an important town of the Pathan Sur dynasty but now focused on industry.

Faridkot

Faridkot is named after a famous Sufi mystic, Baba Farid, whose work appears in the Guru Granth Sahib. Some 350 km northwest of Delhi, close to the Pakistan border, it was once the capital of a Sikh states of the same name and ha a 700-year-old fort famous for its mirror work and murals.

Firozpur

Firozpur, almost on the border, is 382km northwest of Delhi; before Partition the train line continued to Lahore, now in Pakistan.

Pathankot
Pathankot, in the extreme north of Punjab, is an important railhead for those traveling to Dharamsala and Dalhousie.

Nepal Tours

Nepal Tours
Tour Duration: 10 days
Destination(s): Nepal (Kathmandu-Nagarkot-Chitwan-Lumbini-Pokhara)
Specialty Categories: Art/Architecture, History Tours, Museum Tours, Safari Tours, Mountain views, Pilgrimage Tours
Season: Round the Year. Best season Oct. to Dec. and Feb. to May
Tour Starts at: Kathmandu
Ends at: Kathmandu.

Nepal, the land of splendid nature and rich culture is waiting for you exploration through its different facets. Explore Nepal tour gives you an opportunity to explore three different regions of the country, varying from the cultural hub teemed with fascinating ancient building like Kathmandu, the breathtaking scenery of Annapurna Range like Pokhara, and the vast, fertile forest like Chitwan National Park in Terai region. This remarkable trip will make you realize that Nepal has much to offer.

Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu
Arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport, Kathmandu, you are welcomed by the hospitable meeting and then you will be transferred to your hotel. Our guide will explain briefly the program upon arrival at hotel.

Day 2: Kathmandu - Nagarkot
After welcome breakfast, we will take you a glimpse of half day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu Valley; Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most important Hindu temple in Nepal. We keep going for walk to see the huge of stupa of Buddha, also known as Bodhanath, the largest stupa in Nepal. Afterward taking a ride to Bhaktapur, a fascinating town, visit Bhaktapur's Dubar Square featuring the Victorian illustrations style with temples and temples complex. Keep the route connecting to Nagarkot and stay overnight in resort.

Day 3: Nagarkot - Kathmandu
After breakfast, we return to Kathmandu and keep half day valley sightseeings with Kathmandu Durbar Square, the place of the Malla and then the Shah Kings of Nepal, visiting Kumari Temple, house of the virgin goddess, visiting Swoyambhunath, a stupa on the top of hill - from here you can overlook the scenery of Kathmandu Valley. Enjoy yourself on Rickshaw ride to have a Typical Nepalese Dinner at a local restaurant, Thamel before getting back to the hotel.

Day 4: Kathmandu - Pokhara
After breakfast, we depart for Pokhara and commence a full day sightseeing of Pokhara, the most popular destination in Nepal after Kathmandu, spend enjoyably the morning trip along the bank of Phewa Lake, you can admire the stunning view of the Fish Tail's Peak reflected in the silver surface of the water. You can also see the wonderful Annapurna panorama forms a superb backdrop to Pokhara from the lake. Aside from Phewa Lake, we keep visiting the Seti River gorge - one of the best places to see. You will have an opportunity to take a glimpse to the limestone cave of Mahendra Gufa, used to be well-known for its stalactites. Stay overnight at hotel.

Day 5: Pokhara - Chitwan
After breakfast, we travel overland from Pokhara to Royal Chitwan National Park. We experience you a lots of Safari activities; jungle walks, canoeing, 4WD safaris and so forth… Once the night falls down, we entertain you with cultural performances including bonfire before getting in bed.

Day 6: Chitwan
Breakfast, the next, you get a full day safari activities in Royal Chitwan national Park - if you are lucky, you will see many amazing creatures that you spend most time to looking for; rhinoceroses, Chitwan's royal Bengal tigers, leopards, monkeys, many types of deer and reptiles. Check your camera gear - preferably with a telephoto lens and you will not miss any shots. Stay overnight.

Day 7: Chitwan - Lumbini
After breakfast, we travel overland from Chitwan to the Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, where has been revered as the place of holy pilgrimage. Lumbini has been included as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO - if the time permits, we take you to visit Manakamana Temple, believed as the wish fulfilling goddess by cable car.

Upon arrival Lumbini, we transfer you to the hotel, check-in and then we go walking through the Sacred Lumbini Garden where the Buddha was born converges on the Ashoka pillar, visit the Maya Devi Temple with its bas-relief sculpture depicting Maya Devi holding on with her right hand to a branch of pipal tree and giving birth to the infant Buddha who stand up on a lotus pedestal.
Day 8: Lumbini
After breakfast, we begin the trip by driving away, 27km west of Lumbini; visit the important archaeological site, Tilaurkot, the ancient palace of King Suddodha (Siddhartha Gautam's father), where the Buddha spent his formative years as a Shakya Prince. Allow yourself for a moment to wander around and soak the atmosphere. There's a museum nearby, The Kapilvastu Museum; the pottery, jewelry and ornaments are gathered in-house. End up the remarkable tour in Tilaurkot by visiting the shrines, monasteries and stupa near the sacred garden.

Day 9: Lumbini - Kathmandu
After breakfast, we leave Lumbini by road and back to Kathmandu. Check-in at hotel, rest of the day is at your own leisure.

Day 10: Depart Kathmandu
After breakfast, rest of day is at leisure until we pick you up at the hotel and then transfer to airport for your next stop.

Rajasthan Tours

Rajasthan Tourism

Rajasthan - Land of Forts :

Rajasthan, the Land of the Kings, is India at its exotic and colorful best: battle-scarred forts, palaces of breathtaking grandeur and whimsical charm, riotous colour, and a romantic sense of pride and honour.

The state is diagonally divided into the hilly and rugged south-eastern region and the barren north-western Great Thar Desert, which extends across the border into Pakistan. There are plenty of historic cities, incredible fortresses awash with legends, and rare gems of impressionistic beauty such as Udaipur.There are also a number of centers which attract travelers from far and wide, such as Pushkar with its holy lake, and the desert city of Jaisalmer which resembles a fantasy from The Thousand and One Nights.

Rajasthan is one of India’s prime tourist destinations. Nobady leaves here without priceless memories, a bundle of souvenirs, and an address book full of friends. Rajasthan or Rajputana of the old –days, the land of chivalrous brave and people with a warlike around whom grew the most amazing legends of romance, heroism and sacrifice; the land endowed with invincible forts, magnificent palaces and havelis. The cities of Rajasthan still retain the medieval touch keeping alive the timeless traditions in their rich art and crafts.The state represents and unusual diversity in all its forms-people, culture, customs, costumes and cuisine.

History

Rajasthan was known as Rajputana or the home of Rajputs, a martial community who ruled over this area for centuries. History of Rajasthan dates back to the pre-historic times. From 3000 to 1000 BC it had a culture akin to that of the Indus valley civilization. It were the Chauhans who dominated the Rajput affairs from 7 th century and by 12 th century they had become an imperial power. After the Chauhans it was the Guhilots of Mewar who controlled the destiny of the warring tribes. Besides Mewar other States also historically prominent, were Marwar, Jaipur, Bundi, Kota, Bharatpur and Alwar.The other small states were only the offshoots of these. All these States had accepted the British Treaty of Subordinate Alliance in 1818 as it protected the interests of the princes. It naturally left the people discontented.

After the revolt of 1857,the people united themselves under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi to contribute to the freedom movement. With the introduction of provincial autonomy in 1935 in British India agitation for civil liberties and political rights becomes stronger in 1948 to 1956 when the States Reorganization Act was promulgated.

First came the Matsya Union (1948) consisting of a fraction of the States. Slowly and gradually other States merged with the union. By 1949,major States like Bikaner, Jaipur, Jodhpur, had joined this Union making it a united State of greater Rajasthan.

Ultimately in 1958 the present State of Rajasthan formally came into being with the Almer State, the Abu Road Taluka and Sunel Tappa jointing it.

At Independence, India’s ruling Congress Party was forced to make a deal with the nominally independent Rajput states in order to secure their agreement to join the new India. The rulers were allowed to keep their titles, their property holding were secured and they were paid an annual stipend commensurate with their status. It couldn’t last forever and the crunch came in the early 1970s when Indira Gandhi abolished both the titles and the stipends and severely sequestered their property rights.

While some of the rulers have survived this by converting their palaces into luxury hotels, many have fallen by the wayside unable to cope with the financial and managerial demands of the 21 st century.

Getting Around

Rajasthan has an extensive network of bus and train services, although the trains are less useful in places such as the Shekhawati region. Some rail services, particularly around Udaipur in the south, still operate on the slower metre-gauge system. The conversion to broad gauge is taking place but is a painfully slow process. More and more travelers are engaging a private taxi and driver to get around. The best way to travel in Rajasthan by road is to hire a taxi. A large number of tour operators run package tours (holidays) to Rajasthan, covering such activities as trekking, camel safaris, wildlife safaris, hotel booking as well as sightseeing, travel by train or palace on wheels.

How to plan your tours:

We are pioneer travel agents and tour operators in India tour packages and travel itineraries for Rajasthan and North India… We also offer most ideal tour itineraries to explore Indian tourist destinations. Visit us at our site : http://www.tour-india.net/rajasthan.htm to whalk out your tour plan or write us… your choice of destination with travel period and budget for an exclusive and customized holiday.

Gurarat Tourism

Gurarat Tourism

The State of Gujarat occupies the northern extremity of the western seaboard of India. The State is renowned for its beaches, holy temples, historic cities replete with immense architectural wealth and wildlife sanctuaries. The fascinating handicrafts, mouth-watering cuisine and colorful lifestyle of the people of Gujarat, are renowned all over the country. The hard work and civilized approach of the people of Gujarat are evident in every walk of life.
History

Over a long period, Gujarat has been the abode of a number of races-settlers as well as conquers-and amalgamated their cultures into its very own. It is believed that Lord Krishna had left Mathura to settle on the west coast of Saurashtra, which later came to be known as Dwarka, the gateway. Being a coastal State, Gujarat has had contacts with the Western trading world since Greco - Roman times. In fact, in Lothal a civilization dating back to 3000 BC has been excavated which bears testimony of the State. Later the Aryans from Central Asia found it a good entry point. It saw various kingdoms ­Mauryans, Guptas Pratiharas and others. It was with Chalukyas (Solanki) that Gujarat witnessed progress and prosperity. After the golden age of Gupta's, Gujarat successively came under the Rajput kings, the Muslim Sultans, the Mughals and finally under the British Raj, which however, excluded Saurashtra and its 202 princely States.



Before Independence, the present territories of Gujarat used to be in two parts-the British and the princely territories. With the recognition of the State, the Union of the State of Saurastra and the

Union Territory of Kutch along with the former British Gujarat became a part of the bilingual State of Bombay. The present state of Gujarat came into being on May 1, 1960.

Highlights of Popular Places

Special Sites : (1) Ahmedabad (2) Gandhinagar (3) Vadodara (Baroda) (4) Bharuch (5) Surat (6) Daman (7) Saputara (8) Bhavnagar (9) Palitana (10) Diu (11) Veraval (12) Somnath (13) Sasan Gir Wildlife (14) Junagadh (15) Porbandar (16) Dwarka (17) Jamnagar (18) Rajkot (19) Bhuj (20) Mandvi (21) Little Rann of Kutch

Pilgrim Centres : (1) Ambaji (2) Bahucharaji (3) Bakaram (4) Dakor (5) Dwarka (6) Junagarh (7) Khumbariya (8) Mahudi (9) Miradatar (10) Palitana (11) Pavagadh (12) Shamlaji (13) Somnath (14) Taranga Hill (15) Udwada (16) Virpur.

Hill Stations : Saputara.

Airports: Ahmedabad, Baroda (Vadodara), Jumnagar, Bhuj, Keshod, Rajkot, Kandla, Bhavnagar and Surat.

Ahmedabad

Founded in 1411AD by Ahmed Shah, Ahmedabad was at one time considered to be India's finest city. Associated with Mahatama Gandh the Apostle of peace and non-violence, whose simple Ashram on the banks of the Sabarmati River is now a site of national pilgrimage. Renowned as a great textile and commercial center and as 'MANCHESTER OF INDIA' today it is the second largest prosperous and thriving city in western India.

Places of Interest

(1) Jumma Masjid (2) Siddi Sayed Mosque (3) Bhadra Fort or Walled City (4) Hatheesingh Jain Temple (5) Rani Rupmati Mosque (6) Kankaria Lake (7) Gandhi Ashram, Sabarmati (8) The Shaking Minarets (9) Three Gates and (10) Calico Textile Museum.
How to Reach

Air: Ahmedabad is connected by air with Mumbai, Bhuj, Chennai, Delhi, Rajkot, Vadodara and Bangalore.

Rail: Ahmedabad is connected directed by rail with all major cities.

Gandhinagar

25 km away from Ahmedabad.It is the new capital city of Gujarat built in 1960,on the banks of the Sabarmati River after the bifurcation of the old Bombay State into Maharashtra and Gujarat.Gandhinagar presents the spacious well organized look of an architecturally integrated city.

Vadodra (Baroda)

Vadodara, Gujarat’s cultural capital, has a long tradition of music, fine art and education. The former capital of Gaikwads, this city has many palaces, museums and spacious gardens. The Fine Arts School at the university here is well known for having given rise to a prominent style of contemporary painting 0 ‘The Baroda School’.

Places of Interest

(1) Nazarbagh Palace (2) Kirti Mandir (3) Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum (4) Makarpura Palace (5) Pratap Vilas Palace at Lalbagh (6) Vadodara Museum and Picture Gallery (7) Tambekarwada.
How to Reach

Air: Baroda is connected by air with Ahmedabad, Delhi and Mumbai.

Rail: Baroda is on main route between Mumbai and Delhi and is therefore connected directly to major cities.

Bharuch

This very old town was mentioned in history records nearly 2000 years ago. It’s on the main rail line between Vadodara and Surat, about one hour from each. The fort overlooks the wide Narmada River from a hilltop and at its base is the Jama Masjid.On the riverbank, east of the city, is the Temple of Bhrigu Rishi, from which the city took its name.
Surat

Since the earlier times, the ancient port of Surat has been renowned for its fine silks and exquisite brocades and its trade in spices. Surat has been one of the most prosperous of Indian cities in the 17 th and 18 th century. In Mughal times, Surat was the main port from which pilgrims sailed to Mecca. Today Surat is more known for diamond cutting and polishing industry. Surat is on the main Mumbai to Ahmedabad railway line.

Places of Interest

(1) The Old Fort (2) Sardar Patel Museum (3) Rangupavan
Daman

In the far south of Gujarat is the 56 – Sq-Km enclave of Daman.Along with Diu and Goa, Daman was taken in 1961 from the Portuguese, who had seized Daman in 1531.For a time after reverting to Indian rule, Daman and Diu were governed from Goa but both now constitute the Union Territory. The streets of Daman are lined with bars selling beer, Finest Scotch Whisky – Made in India’ and various other spirits such as feni.

Saputara

This cool hill resort in the south – east corner of the state sits 1000m high. There is picturesque lake, attractive gardens, an artist’s village and the views from both Valley View Point and Sunset Point are worth the climb. It’s a popular base for excursions to Mahal Bardipara Forest Wildlife Sanctuary (60km) or the Gira Waterfalls (52km).
Bhavnagar

Once the capital of the princely state, Bhavnagar was founded in 1743 AD and is now a flourishing port on the gulf of Khambat.For tourist it is the convenient base for visits to the town of Patlitana and the sacred hill of Shatunjaya.

Places of Interest

(1) Gaurishankar Lake (2) Takhteshwar Temple (3) Lock Gate.
Palitana

Palitana lies 56 km from Bhavnagar at the foot of the Shatrunjaya Hill with the Shatrunjaya River flowing to its south. The sacred hill rises in a crescendo of magnificent temples – 863 in all – that soar in marble splendour to the top of the hill.
Diu

Diu is for many the highlight of Gujarat with its relaxed pace of life, decaying Portuguese architecture, huge fort and quiet beaches. Diu is a popular hang – out with travelers and you’ll probably see more foreigners here than anywhere else in Gujarat. Although the beaches are nothing compared to Goa’s,it is still a great place to let your hair down and watch the world drift by.

Beaches: (1) Nagoa (2) Gomptimata (3) Jallandhar (4) Chakratirth (5) Sunset Point.
Veraval

On the south coast of Saurashtra, Veraval was the major seaport for Mecca pilgrims before the rise of Surat.Apart from the port and the outside of the eerie old Nawab’s Palace in the west of the town, there’s not a lot to see in but the main reason to come here is as a base for a visit to Somnath Temple, 6km to the east.
Somnath

One of the most sacred and renowned Hindu pilgrimage centers being one of the 12 Jyortirlingas of Lord Shiva. This city has seen a tumultuous history – having been plundered more than once for its legendary wealth and having been resurrected every time by its devotees. Somnath has a large fair at the full moon of Kartika Purnima in November/December, during the statewide festival. Most travelers prefer to stay in Veraval, 6km away.
Sasan Gir Wildlife

This last refuge of the Asiatic lion is 59km from Junagadh via Visavadar.The 1400 sq-km sanctuary was set up to protect the lion and its habitat. Apart from lion there are more than 30 other species, including leopards, hyenas, foxed, wild boars and a number of deer and antelope.

The best time to visit the sanctuary is from December to April; it is closed from 16 June to 15 October, or even later if there has been a heavy monsoon. The lions are elusive but you’d be unlucky not to see at least one on a safari.
Junagadh

An ancient fortified city rich in myth and legend, Junagarh lies at the foot of Girnar Hills and takes its name from the ‘old fort’ which circles the medieval town. There are 14 rock edicts cut into a great rock outside the city of that period.

Places of Interest

(1) Upar Kot or Upper Fort (2) Ashoka’s Rock Edicts (3) Damodar Kund (4) Chorwad Beach.
Porbandar

On the south east coast, midway between Veraval and Dwarka, the modern day city of Porbandar is chiefly noted, as the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, beyond which there are no reasons to visit.
Dwarka

On the extreme western tip of the Kathiawar peninsula, Dwarka is one of the four most holy Hindu pilgrimage sites in India and is closely related to the Krishna legend. It was here that Krishna set up his capital after fleeing from Mathura.

Places of Interest

(1) Dwarkanath Temple (2) Rukmini Temple (3) Sabha Mandapa (4) Nageshwar Mandir.
Jamnagar

Founded in 1540AD,Jamnagar has been the abode of the Jains – the Jadeja Rajput ruler of Nawanagar, and has been the capital of their State. It is renowned for pearl, fisheries, a naval base and a certain type of tie-and dye fabrics.
Places of Interest

(1) Solarium (2) Lakhota Fort and Kotha Bastion.

Rajkot



Rajkot was once the capital of the princely state of Saurashtra.Today it is best known as the town where Mahatma Gandhi spent the early years of his life when his father was a Diwan to the king of Saurashtra.



Rajkot was once the capital of the princely state of Saurashtra.Today it is best known as the town where Mahatma Gandhi spent the early years of his life when his father was a Diwan to the king of Saurashtra.

Places of Interest

(1) Kaba Gandhi No Delo (2) Watson Museum and Library (3) Lal Pari Lake and Randerda (4) The Rajkumar College (5) Rastriya Shala (6) Jagat Mandir.

Bhuj

The gateway city to Kutch, Bhuj is the most important town of Kutch area. Kutch Museum formerly called the Ferguson Museum, built in 1877 AD, is the oldest museum in the State and has an exquisite collection of exhibits including a picture gallery, anthropological and archaeological sections displaying of textiles, weapons, musical instruments and stuffed animals.
Mandvi

Mandvi founded in 1581 AD has a fortification with 25 bastions. The place is known for being the center production of country crafts. Mandvi is also well known for its beautiful sea beach and Vijayvillas Palace built in 1935 AD.
Little Rann of Kutch
The Little Rann of Kutch, the barren expanse of ‘desert’ (Actually salt plain) which divides Gujarat’s western region of Kutch from the rest of Gujarat, was described by one traveler as ‘a striking desert of mud, salt and mirages. The Little Rann of Kutch is the home to the last remaining population of khur (Asiatic wild ass).

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.