FTC Forum

Special Category => பயண கட்டுரைகள் - NATURE AND TRAVEL => Topic started by: MysteRy on March 15, 2014, 10:12:53 AM

Title: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on March 15, 2014, 10:12:53 AM
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Roopkund Lake

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When you look at Roopkund Lake from a distance, it lulls you into believing that it’s just another picturesque glacial lake in the Himalayas. However, at the bottom of this clear water lake lays a mystery that dates back hundreds of years and has been the subject of speculation among scientists, historians and mountaineers from all over the world.


It is located at an altitude of about 5,000 meters above the sea level in Chamoli district, Uttaranchal. When this glacial lagoon begins to melt, hundreds of corpses can be seen floating around. This revelation shook people worldwide and different theories were formed as to how such a terrible incident could’ve occurred. Were these people on a pilgrimage tour? Did they die in an epidemic? What were these people doing in one of the most inhabited regions of the Himalayas? It is also for this very reason that the lake is also referred to as the “Skeleton Lake”.

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The matter was investigated and it was found that the people were from the 12th century to the 15th century. Remnants of 500 people were found and it is believed that more than 600 people lost their lives.

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According to local legends, King Jasdhawal of Kanauj wanted to celebrate the birth of an heir by going on a pilgrimage to the Nanda-Devi Mountains in the Garhwal Himalaya. However, he ignored the rules of pilgrimage by indulging in unruly singing and dancing. The entourage thus had to face the wrath of the local deity, Latu. It said believed that they were caught in a dreadful hailstorm and were thrown into the Roopkund Lake.

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As it turns out, it was not all folklore. National Geographic television channel commissioned a team of European and Indian scientists to examine the skeletons. They found jewelry, bones and even flesh and clothes of a few bodies that had been preserved in the icy ground. However, what really caught their attention were the skulls which showed short, deep cracks. No other part of their body had been harmed. The only plausible explanation that scientists in Hyderabad, Pune and London could come up with is hailstorms. With hailstones as large as cricket balls and nowhere to seek protection from them, it is quite possible that many, if not all of them, perished.

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The world breathed a collective sigh of relief when this age-old mystery was finally uncovered. However, a number of questions still remain unanswered. Where were all those people originally from? Where were all they headed to? Science still has quite a way to go before all answers can be found.
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on March 15, 2014, 10:17:17 AM
Pondicherry

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Pondicherry, a Union Territory and once French Colony in India, is a very popular getaway location in Southern India. Famous for its architecture, beaches, food and spiritual retreats. Its also known as “The French Riviera of the East”. Pondicherry is also a city with a dual personality, half Indian sea side city, and half french town.


Pondicherry is first and foremost a beach town, and while the once famous Promenade is still a major toursit attraction, it has off-late been overshadowed as the city’s pre-eminent beach by the nearby Paradise Beach – which is about 8km south of town on the Cuddalore Highway. Auroville beach too, in the opposite direction – 12km to the north is also a much better beach to visit, with shallow waters and small waves making it a good place to swim. The main attraction otherwise is walking, or cycling around the French Quarter and sampling some of the delectable cuisine on offer. Pondicherry’s French Quarter is officially as close as you can get to a beautiful European town, without leaving the country. The mueseums in the area are also worth a visit especially Pondicherry Museum and the Bharathidasan Museum. Mahatma Gandhi’s magnificent statue on the Promenade is also a major tourist attraction and landmark.

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12km away, one finds Auroville, which is worth a visit for both the Matirmandir – their showpiece building signifying Aurobindo’s philosophy and beliefs, as well a for the many restuarants, shops and hotels that dot the area around it – which are mostly run by emigrant French or Italian citizens, and provide a very authentic culinary experience.

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The best way to get around Pondicherry is by renting a bike, or even better ( and in the non monsoon season ) – a bicycle. All travel options including rental car, bike, scooty and bicycle are easily available along Mission Street and MG Road. The Pondicherry Tourism Department also has a daily bus covering all the attraction of the area, which serves as a good introduction to the city, or might be just the thing the time-strapped tourist is looking for. But anything longer than a weekend is best spent exploring the city on foot and by bike, and leaving ample time to relax by the beaches, and savours the city’s mixed cultural influences – especially in Architecture and Food. Le Cafe, on Rue de Bussy is a 24 hour cafe that serves very good food, and comes highly recommended.

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The best part of Pondicherry though remains the many walks one can take through the beautiful French Quarter ( which is the area bounded roughly by NSC Bose St, SV Patel Rd and Goubert Ave). One option is to take Puducherry’s heritage walk.  Focus Books sells heritage walking trail brochures, but for those who want to go on their own – start at the north end of Goubert Ave, the seafront promenade, and wander south, past the French consulate and the Gandhi Statue. Turn right at the town hall on Rue Mahe Labourdonnais, past the shady Bharathi Park, from take a leisurely walk down Dumas, Romain Rolland and Suffren Sts.

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Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on March 15, 2014, 11:15:08 AM
Yumthang Valley

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The famous Yumthang valley in North Sikkim lies 140km north of Gangtok. Lachung provides the base for exploration of Yumthang, the valley of flowers. Situated at an altitude of 11800 ft ( 3564m) with a close proximity of Tibet, Yumthang is a unique place where the tree line ends, but rhododendron and primula still bloom covering the whole area in a surreal shade.


Yumthang Valley also offers views of a stunning array of peaks with Pauhunri and Shundu Tsenpa. The best season for visiting the valley starts in late February and continues up to mid June, when thousands of colourful flowers are in full bloom. However, to enjoy a clear sky and brilliant view of snow-capped mountains, the September – December season would be ideal. During the summer months, villagers take their cattle to these heights to graze (a practice known as yaylagpastoralism). In view of increasing number of tourists, there is possibility of environmental degradation in the near future.

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The Valley has an astounding, over 24 species of Rhododendrons which paint the Valley red in spring. Rhododendrons are shrubs or trees, and different species of Rhododendron cover different large stretches of the Valley. In spring, the Valley looks like a collage of little forests of different colors. The flowering of Rhododendrons is over by May end. During monsoons, starting in June, the Valley blooms with all kinds of tiny Himalayan flowers, like the Primroses, Cinquefoils, Louseworts and Cobra-lilies. This is a much more enchanting scenario, but takes a keen viewer, with an eye for detail, to truly appreciate. A number of hot springs are scattered in the valley providing an unexpected opportunity to feel the warmth of the water even in freezing temperature. Rich in sulphur these springs are believed to have miraculous healing power.

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There is no accommodation available at the valley. Visitors may stay at Lachung from where the valley is about an hours drive. Accommodation in Lachung is basic and can not be compared to other destinations in Sikkim. Lachung has been described as the “most picturesque village of Sikkim” by British explorer Joseph Dalton Hooker in his definitive, The Himalayan Journal (1855). Skiing is conducted in Phuni near this town. The region has been opened to tourists during the recent years although trekking is still not allowed. Tourism infrastructure in the area is still very basic but fast improving. The road to Yumthang from Gangtok follows the Teesta River, crossing a spectacular gorge over the Rang Rang suspension bridge. The last major town is Chungthang about from where Lachung is an hours drive where tourists stay overnight.

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The experience of visiting Yumthang Valley should not be missed. From the beautiful drive through breathtaking forests, the awe-inspiring views of the mountain ranges and peaks, the added attraction of staying at the wonderful hamlet of Lachung, and finally the incredible Yumthang Valley itself – tour operators in the area ( who are your only option for visiting locations in North Sikkim ) generally offer a 2 night, 3 day package, and with a little care in picking one with a good reputation – you can surely count on having one of the most pleasurable and memorable holidays of your life.

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Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on March 15, 2014, 11:18:53 AM
BR Hills

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The Biligiriranga Hills, commonly called B R Hills, is a hill range situated in south-eastern Karnataka, at its border with the district of Erode in South India. The area is called Biligiriranga Swamy Temple Wildlife Sanctuary or simply BRT Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a protected reserve under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. Being at the confluence of the Western Ghats and the Eastern Ghats, the sanctuary is home to eco-systems that are unique to both the mountain ranges. This beautiful sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in December 2010.


Besides the fantastic scenery on offer, as well as ample trekking opportunities, BR Hills is best known for the high likelihood of animal sightings and the diversity and richness of the flora and fauna in the area. This is due to the fact that the BR hills links the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats allowing animals to move between them and facilitating gene flow between populations of species in these areas. Thus, this sanctuary serves as an important biological bridge for the biota of the entire Deccan plateau.

The most conspicuous mammals in the BR Hills are the herds of wild elephants. The BR hills is the only forest east of the main Western ghats mountain ranges in the central southern peninsula to harbour these panchyderms in large numbers.

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A recent tiger census conducted by forest officials has confirmed the presence of 17 tigers in the sanctuary.
The forests are also well known for many indian bison. There are about 26 species of mammals in total recorded in the sanctuary. The other mammals include sambhar, chital, the shy barking deer which are quite common here and the rare four-horned antelope. Carnivores include tigers, leopards, wild dogs, lesser cats and sloth bears and among arboreal mammals two species of primates and three species of squirrels including the giant flying squirrel are recorded. 254 species of birds recorded in the BR hills. These include the enigmatic southern population of the White-winged Tit (Parus nuchalis), a specimen of which was collected by R. C. Morris and now housed in the Natural History museum at Tring.

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The hills are famous for the temple of Lord Ranganatha or Lord Venkatesha which is situated on the highest peak of the hill range, on the ‘white cliff’ which gives the hill its name. The sanctuary is about 250 kilometres away from Bangalore by road, which is the easiest way to get to the sancutary. The nearest train station is Chamrajnagar about 40km away. BR Hills also houses “Dodda Sampige” – a sacred grove revered by the local tribes and home to many beautiful trees. The climb to the grove is a favourite among avid trekkers. Accomodation is available inside the sanctuary itself, for all budgets.

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Arguably, the most unique and important feature of BR Hills is that it provides daily living proof that biodiversity conservation can go hand-in-hand with people and their livelihoods. The tribal Soliga people have lived in harmony with these forests for hundreds of years and provide BR Hills with a peerless model for conservation of our heritage.
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on March 15, 2014, 11:22:19 AM
Bhangarh

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Located between Jaipur and Alwar in Rajasthan, Bhangarh is India’s very own ghost town.  Known as one of the most haunted places in the country, it is famous for its historical ruins. It is definitely worth a visit for its temples, havelis and a palace. However, be sure to finish all your sightseeing during the day as the spooky place is strictly out of bounds at night.


A signboard displayed by ASI, a Government of India organization clearly states “Entering the borders of Bhangarh before sunrise and after sunset is strictly prohibited. Legal action would be taken against anybody who does not follow these instructions”. All this talk about the supernatural has resulted in making it one of the popular tourist destinations today.

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It is believed that the city of Bhangarh was cursed by the Guru Balu Nath, which led to the town’s evacuation. He sanctioned the establishment of the town but with one clause, saying, “The moment the shadows of your palaces touch me, the city shall be no more!” Ignorant of such a threat, a descendant raised the palace to such a height that it cast a shadow Balu Nath’s forbidden retreat and thus the town was cursed as predicted. The small Samadhi where Balu Nath is said to lie buried is still there.

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According to another legend, the beauty and charisma of the Princess of Bhangarh Ratnavati, was incomparable to anyone in all of Rajasthan. As soon as she turned eighteen, she started getting matrimonial offers from other regions. In the same region lived a tantrik, a magician well versed in the occult, named Singhia. He was madly in love with the princess knowing that nothing could ever come of it. One day when he saw the princess’s maid in the market buying scented oil for her, he thought that this was his chance. He used his black magic on the oil which would hypnotize the princess by her merely touching the oil and would surrender herself and run to him. His plan did not work out as the princess had seen the tantric enchanting the oil and thus poured it on the ground. It touched a stone, which started rolling towards the tantrik and crushed him. Dying, Singhia cursed the palace with the death of all who dwelt in it, without any rebirth in their destinies. The next year there was a battle between Bhangarh and Ajabgarh in which Princess Ratnavati lost her life.

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The grounds of Bhangarh are enclosed by a partially ruined wall. The beautifully carved temples Gopinath, Shiva, Mangla Devi and Keshava Rai are definitely worth a visit. There’s also the dancer’s haveli. The most mysterious building of all is the chhatri that stands atop the hill, which is believed to have been inhabited by the tantrik.

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The town continues to draw visitors many of whom claim to have heard “sounds” of music and tinkling of anklets. Some even swear they have heard spine-chilling screams. Whether its fact or myth, you decide.

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Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on March 16, 2014, 10:15:45 AM
Gwalior Fort

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Described by Mughal Emperor Babur as, “The pearl amongst fortresses in India”, this imposing fort is hard to miss as it can be seen from every nook and corner of Gwalior.  Built on an isolated hill of sandstone 100 m above the city, the Fort spreads out over an area of 3 km and is considered as North and Central India’s most impregnable fortress.

The Fort itself was built in two parts, at different times. The first part, the main Fort was built during the Tomar rule, in the 8th century. The Gurjari Mahal and the Man Mandir Palace was later constructed by Raja Man Singh Tomar in the 15th century for his favorite queen, Mrignayani.

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In the 500 years since then, the Fort has seen many ups and downs in history. It has also changed hands many times and has been held by the Tomars, Mughals, Marathas and the British, who finally handed it over to the Scindias. The fort has quite a gory history. There’s the Jauhar Kund, which marks the spot where the women of the harem burnt themselves to death after the defeat of the King of Gwalior in 1232. The Mughal emperor Aurangzed imprisoned and later murdered his brother Murad in the striking Man Mandir Palace.

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Surrounded by concrete walls of sandstone, the Gwalior Fort encloses three temples, 6 palaces and several water tanks. Easily the most beautiful place in the Fort is the Man Mandir Palace. It is an amazingly elaborate structure that seems to hang on at the edge of the fort. Blue ceramic tiles form the façade of this palace. It is also host of the spectacular sound and light show which is held there every evening. It is so well executed that you will feel as if you’re a part of the rich history of the fort and the love story of Raja Man Singh and his Queen Mrignayani.

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The Fort also contains many other marvels of medieval architecture. The Gujar Mahal is one such structure whose outer covering has survived the many battles the Fort has encountered. The inside of the Mahal has been transformed into an archaeological museum which houses an impressive collection of exhibits, some of which date back as far as 1st century AD.

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Out of the three temples, the Teli-Ka-Mandir is the most prominent. It is a 9th century Dravidian style shrine rising to a height of over 100 ft. It is famous for its blend of South Indian architecture with North Indian decorative motifs and is notable for its liberally sculpted exterior. The Saas-Bahu temples can be found on the eastern side of the fort. They are dedicated to Lord Vishnu and are larger-than-life examples of 11th century temple architecture.

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The Karan Palace, the Jahangir Mahal and the Shah Jahan Mahal are also all palaces what are definitely worth seeing.

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The fort also has a special place in the field of human civilization as it was the place which has the first ever recorded use of 0.

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A visit to Gwalior is incomplete with a visit to Gwalior Fort, one of the best heritages of our country and the most prominent structure in the Gwalior skyline. The best time to visit Gwalior fort is between October to March.
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on March 16, 2014, 10:19:31 AM
Rock Garden

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One of the most unique and spectacular attractions in Chandigarh is the Rock Garden.  It is a classic example of innovation and recycling at its best.  Designed to look like a lost kingdom, this sprawling 40 acre garden is situated between the Capitol Complex and Sukhna Lake.

Set amidst waterfalls, plazas and various sculptures, the sight is something that the world has never seen before.

What makes this garden so impressive is the fact that everything in the garden is created from industrial and home waste and items that have been discarded.

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Established in the form of an open-air exhibition hall, theatre trove and a miniature maze, the Rock garden is set in large mosaic courtyards connected by walled paths. Moreover, several important performances have taken place in this small but very artistic theatre. Enter into the most breathtaking arrangement of rocks, boulders, frames, broken chinaware, metal wires, broken bangles, play marbles and much more through a modest yet classy entrance. It is truly a treat to the eyes. The layout of the garden is built around the fantasy of a lost kingdom. The Rock garden displays sculptures made from everything from clay to auto parts which have aided in creating a world of palaces, soldiers, monkeys, village life, women and temples. This garden, which is without a single flower, is also the venue of the annual Teej Festival. During this time the entire garden lights up and attains a festive look.

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The Garden itself has 14 different chambers housing natural rock-formations which include a musician’s chamber and the main court (Darbar) where the king’s throne is placed.

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This beautiful garden also has a very interesting history behind it. It was initially started secretly by Nak Chund in 1957. He was a road inspector in the Engineering Department of the Chandigarh Capital Project at the time and spent seven years (1958-1965) collecting natural material, urban and industrial waste. However, his work as discovered by the authorities in 1975 and in 1976, it was inaugurated as a public space. It even appeared on an Indian stamp in 1983.

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The garden attracts more than 12 million visitors from around the world every year and is viewed as one of the modern wonders of the world.
Summer opening hours
(1st April to 30th September)
9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Winter opening hours
(1st October to 31st March)
9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The rock garden is open all seven days of a week.

Entry prices:
Rs. 5 for adults
Rs. 3 for children.
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on March 16, 2014, 10:23:08 AM
Madurai Temple

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Madurai, also known as the Temple City of South India, is the second largest city in Tamil Nadu.  Situated on the banks of the river Vaigi, this city is tantamount with the Meenakshi Sundareswarar twin Temple.  This gigantic temple complex is dedicated to Shiva, known here as Sundareshwara and his consort Parvati who is known here as Meenakshi.  This temple is the focal point around which the city of Madurai has developed over 2500 years.

The sprawling temple complex is one of the oldest and largest of its kind in our country and is almost like a city unto itself. It covers an area of over 65,000 square meters. Even though the temple was originally built by the Pandya King, Kulasekaran, the temple has grown due to the contribution of each dynasty and victorious monarchs. The Temple, as we see it today was built by Tiurmalai Nayakar who ruled Madurai from the 16th to the 18th century.

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The Temple itself is set within a high-walled enclosure at the centre of which are the two shrines for Meenakshi and Sundareshwara. There are four massive gateways enclosing there two shrines which are surrounded by a number of smaller shrines and majestic pillared halls. The complex also contains 14 impressive gopurams (gateway towers) which range from 45-50 m in height. The towers have solid granite bases and are covered with stucco figures of deities, mythical animals and monsters painted in bright colors. There is not a single visitor who is not overwhelmed by the vast number of paintings and sculptures. About 33,000 sculptures can be found in the temple complex.

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The most stunning feature of this temple is the magnificent Hall of Thousand Pillars or “Ayiramkaal Mandapam”. It is an architectural marvel wherein each pillar features high, elaborate and bold sculptures that look life like. What’s more, these pillars appear to be in a straight line when viewed from any angle. The beautiful musical pillars are located in the outermost corridors and are carved out of stone. When tapped, each pillar produces a different musical note.

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The temple is one of utmost importance for the Tamil people, which can be seen by the number of visitors it attracts. Around 15,000 people visit this temple daily with it increasing to 25,000 on Fridays. It was even in the list of Top 30 nominees of the “New Seven Wonders of the World” and gets annual revenue of sixty million INR.

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Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on March 16, 2014, 11:05:21 AM
Keoladeo National Park

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For all the nature lovers out there, who wish to spend some time away from the buzz and din of the cities, the clean fresh air and in the company of some of the rarest of the rare birds which are never seen in the cities, there is a place called Keoladeo National Park which is known as “Bird Paradise”. The Keoladeo National Park, formerly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, is one of Asia’s finest bird areas with over 380 resident and migrant species which include Demoiselle, Common and the rare Siberian Cranes.

Situated in the State of Rajasthan, this park derives its name from the temple of Keoladeo (Shiva) and ‘ghana’ which in the local dialect means dense, referring to the nature of vegetation found here. The area of park may not be very large but it supports a tremendous diversity of plant and animal species in a wide array of habitats. These include dry grasslands, woodlands, woodland swamps and wetlands.

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The flora consists of over 372 species of angiosperms, out of which 96 species are aquatic species. Along with the birds, it is also an excellent place to watch mammals like Golden Jackal, Striped Hyena, Fishing Cat, Jungle Cat, Nilgai, Sambar, Blackbuck and wild Boar.

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This National Park has an interesting history. In the past, this area used to be the shooting ground for ducks for the Maharaja Suraj Mull of Bharatpur. It continued to be a hunting preserve for the British and the Maharajas till 1964, after which hunting was banned here. It was declared a National Park in 1982 and UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.

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Today, the park is acknowledged as one of the most important breeding and feeding grounds for the birds in the world. There are well-defined treks in the park which can easily be covered on foot, by bicycle or you can even hire a rickshaw. One can also enjoy a serene boat ride in the early morning or evening.
The park is open throughout the year.

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Entry Fee:
• Foreigners: Rs.200/-
• Indians: Rs.25/-
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on March 16, 2014, 11:09:54 AM
Enchanted Valley of Flowers

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“High in the Himalayan ranges of Garhwal hills of Uttaranchal lies an enchanted Valley.” About 600 kilometers from Delhi, in the Chamoli district of Uttaranchal can be found The Valley of Flowers, a breathtaking array of over 500 different species of wild flowers spread over an area of 87.5 km².  It is situated a height of 11,000 feet to 14,000 feet above the sea level in the Western Himalayas.

This mysterious valley was hidden from the outside world, with only locals frequenting the place. Initially, it was avoided by the shepherds who believed this magical valley to be the celestial playground of the Gods, nymphs and fairies.

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The Valley was discovered by Frank Smith, a mountaineer, botanist and an explorer who came across it quite accidentally in 1931. He was so captivated by its outstanding beauty, which was in its full bloom at the time that he wrote a book about it called “Valley of Flowers”. Thus, the Valley remained a secret no more much to the delight of nature enthusiasts all over the world.

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The Valley itself is flanked on either side by imposing peaks, capped with snow. It is divided into two sections due to the Pushpawati River which cuts through the valley. The major portion of this valley is on its right bank and is every trekker’s dream come true. The entire trek from Govindghat to the valley via Ghangharia is a feast to the eyes. The Valley of flowers changes color almost every day, as it blooms with hundreds of new different flowers along with the changing shades of the old flowers as time passes by. It has been acknowledged by botanists, mountaineers and nature lovers as one of the most picturesque high altitude valleys in the world.

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It was only in 1982 that an area of 8,950 hectares of the valley was declared a National Park. In July 2005, it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This is mainly due to the fact that the valley contains so much rich diversified fauna within its area especially as it is a meeting point of Zanskar, Himalayan ranges and Eastern and Western Himalayas. The importance of this beautiful valley is furthered as many endangered flower species and medicinal plants can be found here.

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From November to May, the valley is covered in a bed of snow but the flora here is well adapted to the harsh climatic conditions. The best time to visit the Valley of Flowers is in the months of July and August after the snow has melted. The flowers are in full bloom during this time, giving you ample opportunity to enjoy the never ending charm of this place.
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on March 16, 2014, 11:13:52 AM
Gangtok

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The Kingdom of Sikkim which was not a part of India decided to merge its state with the Indian Republic in the year 1975. With that decision, India got a gift of a beautiful hill station know as Gangtok, capital of the Himalayan state of Sikkim. The journey to this stunning place is equally beautiful and 90% of the road is by the side of the river Teesta.


Gangtok is situated at an altitude of 1437 meters above the main sea level. There is hardly any plateau in Gangtok and the entire place is located on different steps at various levels which add a special dimension to the view of the place. The word “Gangtok” has been derived from the Tibetan word for “hillside”. Although Sikkim has taken pains to preserve its history, ancient traditions, culture as well as historic monuments which are of religious significance to them, at the same time, it has taken care to keep pace with the modern age by building hospitals, wide roads and other modern amenities that the new age citizen wishes to have.

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During the British rule, Sikkim was an important trade centre between India and Tibet. Gangtok has been the capital of the state of Sikkim since 1894. When India gained independence in 1947, Sikkim chose to remain an independent monarchy till 1975 when due to certain internal circumstances; it decided to become a part of the Indian Republic. During the Sino-Indian war when the Nathu La Pass was blocked for trade, Sikkim suffered economically. However, since 2006, the pass has been reopened and it has thrown open new opportunities for trade between India and Tibet and a gateway to the prosperity of the Sikkimese.

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Sikkim has a long tradition of association with Buddhism. It boasts of quite a few ancient Buddhist monasteries and temples. The chief amongst them being the Enchey Monastery established in the latter part of the 19th century. These Buddhist temples have made Gangtok an important site of pilgrimage for Buddhists all over the world. The town’s former Royal Palace, the open-air Lall market and the Namgyal Institte of Tibetology also evoke the tourist’s interest. Lush parks and gardens are also spread over the landscape.

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The city of Gangtok is quite cosmopolitan with people of different ethnicities such as Nepalese, Chinese, Tibetans, and Indians living side by side and celebrating the Sikkimese festivals like Losum and Losar enthusiastically. Gangtok also enjoys communal harmony despite the diversity of ethnic backgrounds in its population of about 80,000. Due to the multiplicity of the cultures in its population, Gangtok also offers a multi-cuisine menu to its tourists to satisfy everyone’s culinary habits. Gangtok market also offers a very different kind of merchandise with Buddhist designs right from carpets to wall hangings and many items of handicrafts. Lall Bazaar is one of the best and cheapest areas for shopping.

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Overall, Gangtok offers a totally different and absolutely satisfying experience to every visitor. The best time to visit Gangtok is from March to late May or October to mid-December.
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on March 22, 2014, 08:24:36 PM
Elephanta Caves

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About 10 kilometers to the east of Mumbai, lies the island of Elephanta.  A true example of Hindu cave culture, it consists of seven caves which can be divided into two groups.  The first is a large group of 5 Hindu caves while the second is a smaller group of two Buddhist caves.  The Hindu caves are the glorious abode of Lord Shiva. Nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, this unique island is not only a worthy destination in itself, but it also provides a great view of Mumbai’s skyline and is a perfect escape from the chaos of the city.


The origins of these temple caves is still quite vague, though there are believed to date back to about the 7th century. The island was originally a Hindu place of worship and was called Gharapuri, until the Portuguese rule began in 1534. They renamed it Elephanta after they found a large stone statue of an elephant near their landing place. Unfortunately, the figure collapsed in 1814 and has been reassembled and placed in the garden outside the Bhau Daji Lad Museum at Jijamata Udyan in Mumbai. Moreover, many of Elephanta’s priceless statues were damaged or destroyed by the Portuguese, who apparently used the Hindu gods for target practice.

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One enters the caves through the main northern entrance to a massive hall which is supported by large pillars. The caves are felled from solid basalt rock. All caves were painted in the past but now only traces remain. The most notable cave among them is Cave 1 or the Mahesamurti cave. It is a rock cut temple which is enormous in size covering an area of 60,000 feet supported by a row of six columns each.

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The main temple consists of a large pillared hall and a freestanding shrine at the west end of the hall. The huge Mahesamurti statue is housed in the massive hall. At a height of 6.3m, this impressive sculpture depicts Shiva in his three-headed aspect: as Creator (facing right), Protector (the crowned face at the center) and Destroyer (facing left, with serpents for her). Other sculptures near the doorways and on the side panels celebrate Shiva’s accomplishments. What makes this sculpture all the more remarkable is that in spite of Shiva’s multiple actions, this work of art still conveys a sense of grace and peace. The temple consists of a main chamber, two lateral chambers, courtyards and subsidiary shrines. Is it the residence of Shiva.

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On the eastern side of the island is the Stupa hill. It gets its name from the religious Stupa monument that the caves display. This is where the caves which house the Buddhist monuments are located. One of the two caves is incomplete, while the other contains a Stupa made out of brick.

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An outstanding dance festival is held at the Elephanta caves every February, hosted by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC). The best time to visit this island is between November and March.

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Timings: 9:30am-5:30pm (closed on Mondays)

Entry fee:
• Rs.10/- for Indian Nationals.
• Rs.460/- for Foreigners.
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on March 22, 2014, 08:47:27 PM
Mysore Palace

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Mysore Palace or Mysore Maharaja Palace is one of the largest and most spectacular monuments in the country. Also known as Amba Vilas, it is located in the heart of the city of Mysore. The palace was initially built by the Wodeyar kings in the 14th century. Unfortunately, as it was made of out wood it got burnt down in 1897 during a royal wedding. The current palace construction was commissioned in 1897 and was completed by 1912. Designed by the famous British architect, Henry Irwin, it was built for the twenty-fourth Wodeyar Raja. It was the residence of the Wodeyar Maharaja’s of the Mysore State.


The current palace is built in Indo-Saracenic style and blends together Hindu, Muslim, Rajput and Gothic styles of architecture. The palace itself is a three-storey stone structure which has a series of square towers with arches covered with domes. There is also a large open space in front with an open courtyard in the center which is covered by a gold plated dome about 145 feet off the ground. A striking sculpture of Gajalakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, good luck is located above the central arch with her elephants. The palace is surrounded by a large garden. The palace houses a collection of exquisite carvings and works of art from all over the world.

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The palace also has several unique rooms. These include the public durbar, where the king would host major ceremonial gatherings. There’s also the Kalyana Mantapa, a spectacular octagonal shaped hall where all royal weddings, birthdays and ceremonial functions were celebrated. The Private Durbar, the Gombe Thotti and the portrait gallery are also worth a visit.

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The palace is now converted into a museum that is home to souvenirs, paintings, jewellery, royal costumes and other items which were once possessed by the Wodeyars. However, the erstwhile Royal family continues to live in a portion of the Palace. It’s a rainbow of stained glass and mirrors. The lavishly decorated rooms are hidden behind elegantly decorated and intricately carved doors. Musical instruments, costumes, children’s toys and portraits are displayed on the ground floor while the upper floor has a small collection of weapons. It is said that the palace displays the largest collection of gold objects quantity wise.

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The Mysore palace complex has a selection of 12 Hindu temples. They have been built over a vast expanse of time with the oldest being built in the 14th century. The latest one was built in 1953. Someshvara Temple, dedicated to God Lord Shiva and Lakshmiramana Temple, dedicated to God Lord Vishnu are some of the more famous temples.

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The palace is illuminated with ninety seven thousand bulbs at night on Sundays and during the holiday season of Dasara. It is truly a sight to behold.

Mysore Palace Timings: 10:00am-5:30pm
Entry Charges:
• Indian National- Rs.20/-;
• Foreign Tourist- Rs.200/-
• Free entry for children up to the age of 10.
Mysore Palace Illumination Timings:
• 7:00-8:00pm only on Sundays, National holidays and State festivals.
• 7:00-9:00pm during the Dasara festival.
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on March 22, 2014, 09:01:47 PM
Sariska Tiger Reserve

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Sariska Tiger Reserve is a national park which lies in the Alwar district of Rajasthan state of India.  In the pre-independence period the forests within the Reserve were maintained as a hunting reserve area for the royalty of the former Alwar State. After independence, it got the status of wildlife reserve in the year 1955 when it became unlawful to hunt, shoot, net, trap, snare, capture or kill any kind of wild animals. It was promoted to a Sanctuary in 1958 and finally became a Tiger reserve in the year 1978 making it a part of India’s Project Tiger scheme.


It is now a prime tiger country. The present area of the Reserve is 866kms which is divided into dry deciduous forests, steep cliffs, grasslands and rocky landscape. The two main types of forest present are tropical dry deciduous forest and tropical thorn forest.

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The main species of flora here are the Dhok (Anogeissues pendula) trees which cover nearly 90 percent area of the forest. The other types of trees are Kattha (Acacia Catechu) and Bamboo which are common in the valleys. Dhak (Butea monosperma) and Ber (Zizyphus spp) are also found in the valleys. Salar (Boswellia serreta) and Gol ( Lannea coromandelica) grow at rocky patches. Besides there, some other notable trees are Arjun (Terminalia arjuna), Gugal (Commiphora wightii), Kadaya (Sterculia urens) and Bargad (Ficus benghalensis). Shrubs such as Kair (Capparis deciduas), Adusta (Adhatoda vesica) and Jhar ber (Ziziphus nummularis) are plentiful.

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A variety of other wild animals like leopard, jungle cat, caracal, striped hyena, golden jackal, chital, sambhar, blue bull, chinkara, wild boar, hare and langur are found here apart from the tiger. The Sariska National Park is home to India’s largest population of peafowl, harbours quail, sand grouse, golden-backed woodpeckers and crested serpent eagles along with many other species of birds. Moreover, the Siliserh lake on the edge of the park has a large number of replies including crocodiles.

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The reserve also houses several places of historical importance. The ancient Kankwari Fort is situated in the middle of the Reserve. It was originally built by Jai Singh II. The Mughal emperor Aurangzeb briefly imprisoned his brother, Dara Shikoh, here in the struggle for succession of the throne. There’s also a famous temple of Lord Hanuman which is situated at Pandupol which was believed to be one of the retreats of the Pandavas. Archaelogical treasures, Nilkanth and Garh Rajor of 9th and 10th century are ruins of Shiva and Jain temples, contemporary of the world famous Khajuraho. Nilkanth temples were built by the Bargujars.

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Whether you love wildlife watching, visiting medieval palaces, enjoying the exciting jeep safaris or just go shopping in the surrounding areas, Sariska Tiger Reserve will offer you all this and much more.
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on March 22, 2014, 09:12:57 PM
Leh Ladakh

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If you’re a fan of adventure, then Ladakh is the place for you. One of the most exciting ways to explore the landscape wonders as well as the remote areas of Ladakh. Crossing the Khardungla pass, considered to be one of the highest motor able roads in the world is a high like never before. Moreover, Ladakh is also a paradise for trekking and mountaineering due to its high peaks and mountains. You can also take part in and enjoy a number of fairs and festivals like the Losar festival, Hemis, Ladakh festival and tak-tok festival.

Ladakh is a part of Jammu & Kashmir in the north of India. It consists of two districts Leh and Kargil.


The district headquarters is based in Leh. Leh district consists of Leh town and 112 inhabited villages and one un-inhabited village. The total population of Leh district is 1.17 lacs. It is the second least populated district of Jammu and Kashmir, after Kargil.

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There are several ways of reaching Leh but it depends on the route that would be open. Srinagar and Manali are the two major gateways to Leh Ladakh. Ladakh was under the administration of Leh until the 1st of July, 1979, when the Kargil and Ladakh administrative districts were created. Religion had been the cause of a lot of distress between Buddhists and Muslims since the late 20th century and was one of the main contributors of this division. Tibetan and Buddhist cultures have prevailed for centuries now in these two places of India. A lot of Buddhist monasteries are prominent pilgrimage centers in the country. Its colorful gompas have attracted devout Buddhists from all over the world.

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Travelers flock to this beautiful destination from all over the globe. It has plenty to experience and explore. The most impressive is the royal palace known as Leh Palace. The palace, which overlooks Leh, has a certain mystery to it. It was constructed by King Sengge Namgyal in the 17th century. According to history, it was later abandoned as the Kashmiri armies surrounded in the mid 19th century and the royal family that was residing here earlier moved to Stok Palace on the southern bank of the Indus. The palace comprises of nine stories of which the upper floors are meant for the royal families whereas the lower floors function as stables and store rooms. Exploring the palace from the inside will make you reminiscent of the days gone by.

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Leh is the second largest district in the country with an area of 45, 100 square kilometers. It is at an altitude of 3524 meters. The district is constrained by Pakistan occupying Kashmir in the west and Ghanche district, China in the north. Aksai Chin and Tibet are to the east, Kargil district to the west and Lahul and Spiti of Himachal Pradesh to the south.

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Leh-Ladakh is truly a voyage into the most magnificent peak and religious zone of the world. The best time to visit Lakadh is from the months of June to September which are its summer months.

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Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on March 22, 2014, 09:25:39 PM
Jaisalmer

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Jaisalmer, also known as “The Golden City” is a town in Rajasthan.  It was once known as Jaisalmer state and is the administrative headquarters of the Jaisalmer district.  It’s not a very large town, with a population of about 78,000. However, it has a charm of its own and is a paragon of beautiful culture and harsh climatic conditions.  Jaisalmer is named after Maharawal Jaisal Singh who founded the city.  He was a Rajput king in 1156 AD. “Jaisalmer” means “The hill fort of Jaisal”. 

The entire city is built out of yellow sand and yellow sandstone due to which it came to be known as “the Golden City”. The old city was completely encircled by a wall but much of it has crumbled sadly for want of building material in recent years. Just like all the other cities in Rajasthan, Jaisalmer also has its own glorious past.

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According to the legends, the then Rajpur ruler of Jaisalmer, Maharawal Jaisal Singh founded the city at the behest of a local hermit named Eesaal, whom he respected a lot. In order to ensure his safety he built the fort on the Trikut hill because its location made it quite inaccessible and he could keep a watch on his surroundings. This helped him to know the movements on his enemies well in advance. The main source of income of the Bhatti Rajput rulers in the past was through the collection of taxes from the passing caravans. Jaisalmer was situated on one of the very important routes which connected India to several counties including Persia, Egypt, Africa and many western countries. Thus, it was a very busy business route and provided ample opportunity for the Bhatti rulers to collect taxes and amass huge wealth.

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Due to its peculiar location, it remained out of bounds of any invaders for a long time. Only when the Bhatti Rajput rulers dared to loot the imperial caravan carrying treasures of Ala-ud-din Khilji, the Sultan of Delhi, they incurred this wrath. He led a siege around Jaisalmer to concur it and the siege lasted for 9 long years. In the final battle for their independence, the then ruler of Jaisalmer, Raja Jaisimha ‘s son Duda died while fighting the forces of the sultan. In the subsequent years, the rulers of Jaisalmer maintained good relations with the Mughal emperors. However, they did not accept the British rule easily. In fact, Jaisalmer rulers were the last to sign the Instrument of Agreement with the British Government.

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Besides being a place of historical importance, Jaisalmer is still a living town and a major tourist attraction in Rajasthan. Unlike other forts, a quarter of the town’s population still lives inside the fort. This spectacular fort houses a royal palace (Raj Mahal), Jain temples and many sites worth visiting. The walls of the fort are constructed out of red sandstone which assumes a lovely honey-gold hue as the sun sets.

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The people of Jaisalmer are very hospitable and are gifted with a lot of folk music, dance and art forms. The main means of transport in this part of the country are camels. One can enjoy a camel ride during a visit to this place.

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Jaisalmer has also got a rich cultural heritage and to display its rich past, the place has got a museum dedicated to the many artifacts used in the by-gone era. People interested in history would definitely enjoy a visit to this Government museum. In addition, there are mansions known as Havelis which used to the abodes of the rich, famous and powerful people belonging to the Raj Darbar of the rulers. These beautiful havelis were very well-crafted and are a piece of art and architecture of that time. Some of the most famous havelis are Patwon-ki-Haveli, Salman Sigh-ki-Haveli, Nathmalhi-ki-Haveli and Haveli Shreenath. A visit to these havelis will give you an idea of how lavishly the rich and powerful of that era lived.

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People of Rajasthan are mostly vegetarian but they do prepare, serve and enjoy a variety of delicacies in their everyday life. A visit to Jaisalmer will definitely be satisfying to your culinary appetite besides capturing you with its magnificent sites and architecture. A visit to Jaisalmer will definitely prove memorable in all respects.
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on June 01, 2014, 02:01:23 PM
Gokarna

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Gokarna is a village in Karnataka, in the district of Uttara Kannada of Karnataka state.  Gokarna literally means “Cow’s ear”.  It is believed that Lord Shiva emerged from the ear of a cow here. Hence it is also known as the temple town and is an important pilgrimage center for the Hindus.  Another probable reason for the name Gokarna could be due to its Geographical location. The area where it is located is the convergence of rivers Gangavali and Agnashini and resembles the shape of a cow’s ear.

The early settlements of this region can be traced back to the Brahmins.  They escaped from Gomantak to avoid forcible conversions by the British and Portuguese and settled in and around Gokarna around the 15th century.  At that time, Gokarna used to be a part of the kingdoms of Vijaynagar and Sodhe.  However, it later came under the Portuguese rule as the Konkan region was vehemently taken over by them.  Gokarna is also an important center for Sanskrit studies. It is the residence of Bhandikeri Math and Togu Math where Sanskrit knowledge is passed down from generations in Brahmin families.  The main language spoken here is Kannada. However, Konkani and Marathi are also widely spoken.

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Mahabaleshwara temple is one of the chief temples here. It is a famous Shiva temple. There is a custom that one has to bathe in the sea and pay respect to a Shivalingam, made out of sand.  The famous Atmalinga is housed here. It is preserved in a square called Saligrama Peetha. It is opened for viewing once in forty years.

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The other temples are Maha Ganapathi Temple, Uma Maheshwari Temple, Varadraj Temple and many more. Gokarna also has many mythological stories associated with it.

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Gokarna is not just a temple town.  It is also a popular tourist destination with its endless coconut and palm trees and clear blue seas.  It is a paradise for beach lovers.  Four of the most gorgeous beaches are located in the south of Gokarna.  First is the Kudle beach, a beautiful beach that seems to go on forever and is surrounded by palm trees.

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Next is the Om beach, which is shaped like its name.

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The final two are Half-moon beach and Paradise beach.  These beaches have huts (shacks) on them which are available for rent.

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They also have hammocks and guitars which give a hippy feel to the small village. They attract both foreigners and Indians alike.  You can explore this quaint little town by walking through the two main streets which are lined with shops and conventional houses.

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The presence of beaches and temples together create a contrast that few other places in the world possess. The best time to visit Gokarna is from October to March.
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on June 01, 2014, 02:06:57 PM
Hampi

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Also known as Humpi or Hampe, Hampi is a small village situated in Northern Karnataka.  It was the capital of the Hindu empire, Vijayanagara, who ruled south India from 14th to 16th century AD. With the help of his devotee disciples Hakka and Bukka, Saint Vidyaranya established the base of Vijayanagara Empire in 1336 AD. It gained popularity because of its re-establishment of Indian culture and its support for music, art and literature.  They also encouraged the renovation and reconstruction of temples throughout India.  With their main focus being on caring for the people and their welfare, this empire soon spread from Karnataka to Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra as well.


The name Hampi itself is derived from Pampa, which is the old name of the Tungabhadra River on whose banks the city was built. The destruction of the Empire by the Mughal invaders reduced this beautiful city to ruins.

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Even then these ruins are filled with museums, markets, temples and plenty of other ancient monuments. It is both a historic as well as religious place in India and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Spread over an area of about 25 square kilometers, amidst giant boulders and vegetation, Hampi boasts of past riches, grandeur and wealth. It is packed with places to see.

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First and foremost is the Vittala Temple Complex, the most magnificent monument of Hampi. It is dedicated to Vittla, a form of the Hindi God Vishnu. The temple contains many halls and shrines, the former known for its beautiful pillars with animated carvings on it. It also contains ‘musical pillars’, a set of pillars that resonate when tapped. It also houses the great stone chariot which has stone wheels that actually revolve.

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Next is the Virupaksha temple, one of the oldest active temples which dates back to 7th century AD. It is dedicated to the Hindi God of destruction and is located at a riverbank.

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The hampi bazaar is a sight that is not to be missed. It is 35 yards wide and nearly 800 yards long and is lined with beautiful houses. Moreover, there is also the King’s Balance where kings were weighted against grain, gold or money which was then distributed to the poor.

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There’s also Royal enclosure, Hemakuta hill temples, queen’s bath…the list of monuments is endless. The best time to visit this historical place is between October and March.

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Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on June 01, 2014, 02:12:09 PM
Humayun’s Tomb

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Located in Nizamuddin East, Delhi, Humanyun’s tomb is the tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun.  He passed away in 1556 and his wife Hamida Banu Begam supervised the construction of his tomb from the year 1562. This spectacular piece of architecture took almost 9 years to complete. Humayun was the second Mughal Emperor to rule India, after his father, Babur being the first.

The architect of the project, Mirak Mirza Ghiyuath, was Persian and hence the architecture of the tomb has a Persian influence. It is not only the first garden-tomb of its kind in India but is also the first classic example of Mughal architecture.

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The tomb was constructed at a cost of 1.5 million rupees (15 lakh). The tomb is situated at the banks of Yamuna River. It was chosen because of its proximity to Nizamuddin Dargah which is the mausoleum of the famous Sufi saint of Delhi. Humayun’s tomb is also the first structure to use red sandstone at such a scale.

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Along with the tomb of Humayum the compound also has the tomb of his wife, Hamida Begum and also of Dara Shikoh, son of the late emperor Shah Jahan. It is also the burial ground for many other Mughals. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. It also boasts the Charbagh gardens, a typical Persian garden which was never seen before in India.

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The mausoleum is a 140 feet high structure with a central dome. The tomb itself stands on a platform and in the centre of a square garden which is divided into four main parterres by ramps, in the center of which ran shallow water-channels. They were filled with water to keep the gardens green and natural at all time. The main gateway of Humayun’s tomb consists of a large square enclosure and Humayun’s tomb can be seen at the center.

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Built over acres of lush green land and surrounded by fountains this complex is home to a well manicured garden, a beautiful mosque and several other tombs. It represents Mughal architecture at its best.
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on June 01, 2014, 02:18:11 PM
Ranikhet Hill Station

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Situated at an altitude of 1869 meters above the sea level, this idyllic hill station is located just 59kms away from Nainital. It was discovered and built entirely by the British in 1869. The serene hills, the blooming valleys, the pleasant climate will cast an instant spell on the visitor.


As it located in the Northern region of India in the Kumaon hills, all four seasons here have something special to offer. The hill station also experiences snowfall in the months of December and January. This is the perfect destination to unwind and rejuvenate while enjoying the magnificent views offered by the Western Himalayas. Today, Ranikhet is preserved by the Indian Army.

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According to local legends, Ranikhet gets its name from Rani Padmini. She was the queen of Raja Sukherdev, the local ruler. When she saw the place, she was so captivated by its beauty that she decided to make it her residence. Ranikhet literally means ‘Queen’s field’. The region around Ranikhet was ruled by the local Kumaoni rulers and later came under the British rule. The British then proceeded to develop it as a hill station for their troops and established a cantonment in 1869. They used it as a retreat during the summers. Ranikhet is still a cantonment town and is the Kumaon Regimental Center.

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There are many attractions in Ranikhet along with the scenic views offered by nature. First and foremost is the Nanda Devi Mela. It is a fair of great religious and cultural significance. It is held in September at the Nanda Devi temple to celebrate the memory of goddesses, Nanda and Sunanda. Even if you’re unable to make it to the fair, a visit to the two famous temples Jhoola Devi Ka Mandir and Kali Devi Ka Mandir is a must.

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Ranikhet also presents a wide array of sports such as tennis and golf. It has a well-equipped residential club which offers temporary membership to tourists. Moreover, there’s Chaubatia, which are the four fruit gardens. This is well worth the visit as it also houses the sales depot and a cafeteria along with a Government Fruit Research Centre. Last but not the least, is the Bhalu Dam, known for its fishing. The main source of the town’s water supply comes from here.

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All this and much more ensure that Ranikhet is one hill station you cannot afford to miss. The ideal time of visit this paradise on Earth is between the months of March and September.
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on July 11, 2014, 09:12:58 AM
Golkonda Fort

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One of the most spectacular monuments of India, Golkonda fort is located 11kms west of Hyderabad.  This historic fort derives its name from the Telugu word “Golla Konda” which means Shepherd’s hill.  The fort stands on a 400 ft high hill and was initially built by the Kakatiya dynasty in the twelfth century.

It was originally a mud fort but was later reconstructed in stone. This was done by Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah Wali , the fourth Qutub king of the Qutub Shahi dynasty. 

This dynasty had ruled the kingdom of Golkanda from 1512. The fort was rebuilt for the purpose of defense from invading Mughals from the north. They transformed it into a mighty fort which has three imposing walls one within the other that rise to a height of over 12m.

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A deep moat surrounds the outer most wall covering a substantial area of the town with a circumference of 7km. Besides having walla ranging from a thickness of 17 to 34 feet, the fort also has 87 semi circular bastions which are 50 to 60 geet high.

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This majestic citadel boasts 8 gates or Darwazas as they are known locally, the main gate being Fateh Darwaza which means Gate of Victory.The door is 13 feet wide and 25 feet high and is studded with steel spikes to protect it from charging elephants. All this rendered the fort impenetrable and made if one of the strongest forts of the Medieval Deccan.

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Apart from its impressive exterior, there are quite a few attractions within the fort. One of the most impressive features of this fort is its acoustics system. By means of this system, a hand clap sounded at the fort’s main gate, the grand portico, can be heard clearly at the ‘Bala Hissar’, the highest point a kilometer away.

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The Golkonda fort is divided into four distinct forts. The exceptional architecture still shines through in each of the apartments, halls, temples, mosques and even the stables.The important structures inside the fort are the striking Silai Khana, a three-storied armory building, Nagina Bagh, guide lines, Akkanna-Madanna Offices, Ramdas jail, Darbar hall and a Masjib founded by Ibrahim Qutub Shah. Moreover, the fort also has an ingeniously evolved water supply system.

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Last but not the least, a visit to the Golkonda fort isn’t complete without the viewing of the Light and Sound show. It brings the legend of Golkonda to life.

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Opening hours: 8:00am-6:30pm daily

Best time to visit: September to March

Entry Fee: Adult-Rs.120/- & Child-Rs.100/-
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on July 11, 2014, 09:15:42 AM
Mehrangarh Fort

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Situated at a height of 400 feet above the city of Jodhpur, Rajasthan, this majestic fort offers breathtaking views of Jodhpur. Its immense size makes it one of the largest forts in India and it has been designated as “the work of giants” by Rudyard Kipling.

The fort, constructed out of red sandstone, was built by Rao Jodha in 1459 when he transferred his capital from Mandore. 

The fort itself is surrounded by impressive fortifications that are six meters thick. Moreover, seven gates have to be crossed in order to reach the fort.

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The gates of the fort are witness to the attacks it bore by various attackers in the past. The second gate still carries the scars and impressions of the cannonballs which were hurled at it during attack. To the left of the fort is a memorial dedicated to the brave soldier by the name of Kirat Singh Soda who sacrificed his life to protect the fort.

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Out of these seven gates, two are marked specially as gates of victory. The first one is Jayapol was built by Maharaja Man Singh to celebrate his victories over Jaipur and Bikaner armies. The second one, Fattepol, was built by Maharaja Ajit Singh to commemorate the defeat of the Mughals. The palm imprints on these gates are the centre of attraction of tourists even today.

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The major attractions of this fort are the palaces located within the fort. The most prominent of these grand palaces being the Moti Mahal or Pearl Palace that houses the royal throne of Jodhpur, known as Sringar Chowki. It is also a living proof of the magnificent Jodhpuri architecture and craftsmanship. The other palaces within the fort area are the Phool Mahal, whose ceiling is adorned with beautiful embroidery carved in gold, the Rang Mahal and the Chandan Mahal. Umaid Villas, Ajit Villas and Maan Villas are the other mansions in this spectacular fort. Ajit Villas exhibits the musical instruments and the royal attires while Umaid Villas displays the Rajput miniature paintings.

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Various articles of historical importance which were used by the Rathores such as old royal palanquins, arms, costumes and paintings have been stored in the museum of the Mehrangarh Fort. This museum has got one of the largest collections of that period.

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Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on July 11, 2014, 09:19:14 AM
Golden Temple

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The Harmandir Sahib(or Hari Mandir) located in Amritsar is not only of utmost importance for the Sikhs but is also a major tourist destination due to its immeasurable beauty.  Previously and commonly known as the Golden  Temple, it was officially renamed Harmandir Sahib in March 2005.

It is situated in the middle of a large lake or temple tank in what was originally a deep forest.

The construction of this gurdwara was initially started by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru in 1574, on land donated by the Mughal emperor Akbar. It was completed by Guru Arjan Dev, his successor.

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Unfortunately, the gurdwara occasionally damage during the eighteenth century as it was the place of conflict between the Sikhs and either Mughal or Afghan forces. However, in the earth nineteenth century, Maharaja Ranjit Singh protected it from outside attack. He also decorated the upper floors of the gurdwara with gold which led to it being named as the “Golden Temple” worldwide. It also made it one of the most spectacular sights of worship.

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What makes this sacred place especially unique is the fact that’s its construction combines Muslim, Hindu and European design principles.

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Not only is it a major pilgrimage destination for Sikhs from all over the world, people from all walks of life irrespective of caste, creed, color, sex and religion are welcomed. Visitors can enter through one of the 4 entrances of the temple.

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The temple itself is lower than the surrounding area so one must step down in order to reach Harmandir Sahib. It also houses Guru Ka Langar which is a 3 storied communal, open kitchen. It serves approximately 40,000 meals daily to devotees and visitors. On entering the gurdwara complex, one will find many shrines to past Sikh gurus, saints and martyrs. There are also many memorials that commemorate past Sikh Historical events, saints and martyrs. It is also believed that Buddha spent some time here.

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All this and much more truly make the Golden Temple one of the most sacred and stunning places to visit.
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on July 11, 2014, 09:22:17 AM
Alleppey - Venice of the East

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Located in Kerala, in God’s own country lies Alleppey, a quaint town in the Alappuzha district. The pristine backwaters flanked by palm trees have earned it the name “Venice of the East”.

It provides you with a true insight into the backwaters of Kerala with a glimpse into the life of the country folk.


Alleppey derives its support from the large network of canals.

Considered to be the oldest planned town in this region, Alleppey is one of the most important tourist centers in the state. The sun-kissed beaches, the timeless coves, the bustling shores and canals will bowl you over and leave you wanting more.

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It the past, it was one of the busiest centers of trade with one of the best known ports along the Malabar coast. Even today, it is famous as the centre for Coir carpet industries and prawn farming.

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An event not worth missing is the fabulous snake-boat races which are held on the second Saturday of august every year.  Known as the Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race, it is named after India’s first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who inaugurated it in 1952.  It is a sight to behold as each snake-boat manned by over a hundred oarsmen zoom through the water, competing for the cup.

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The Ambalapuzha temple festival is also worth a visit. The Krishna idol is carried over quite a distance by 5 elephants. The temple is 14 kilometers away from Alappuzha and is renowned for its rose palpayasam.

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Complete your stay by staying on one of the many different varieties of houseboats on offer.  As they come with drivers and a cook, you can gorge on delicious fish and prawns while observing the life of the village people and relax on the lake.

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Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on July 11, 2014, 09:25:28 AM
Amber Fort

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Built by Raja Man Singh in the 16th century Amber Fort (also known and pronounced as Amer fort) is located in Amer, a small town 11km from Jaipur, Rajasthan. It is a fascinating merge of Mughal and Hindi architecture, built in marble and red sandstone.

The Amber fort was occupied by the Rajput’s from the 16th century till 1927, when Jaipur was created. They used it both for residential as well as defense purposes. It is a symbol of the valiant lifestyles of Rajput’s. Situated at the forefront of the palace is the Maotha lake.

 Situated at the forefront of the palace is the Maotha lake. The reflection of this sprawling palace on the water of the lake is mesmerizing.

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Tourists are often deceived by the outer appearance of the fort as it is rocky and rough. However, this is completely different from its interiors which are filled with lush gardens, intricate decoration and exquisite paintings. The majestic halls with the minute mirror work and carvings on the walls and ceilings leave the visitors captivated.

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The fort is divided into four subparts. Diwan-I-Aam, also known as the Hall of Public Audiences, is a marquee with double row of columns. At the entrance of the palace is Kali temple or Sila Devi temple which is famous for its heroic past, silver doors and huge silver lions. The Ganesh Pol, another aspect of the fort, leads us to the apartments of the King. Amber fort also has Jai Mandir, a renowned temple which has Sheesh Mahal. This is a magnificent hall of mirrors designed in such an artistic way that even a tiny ray of lights gets reflected.

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The fort also houses numerous other halls which have their own special characteristics. Moreover, the grand walls ensure the protection of the Fort against the invasion of enemies.

In addition to all the above, many visitors come here to enjoy the joyful elephant ride. A ramp is designed to take you to the hilltop palace on beautifully decorated elephants so that you can truly take in the flawless beauty of this royal Fort.

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All this and much more will definitely make your trip to Amber fort a memorable experience.

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Timings- 9:30 am- 4:30 pm (Open on all days)

‘Best time to visit-October to February

Entry fee-The entry fee for Indian nationals is Rs. 25 per head whereas for foreign tourists it is Rs.200 per head. Elephant ride for Rs 450 per person one way.
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on July 11, 2014, 09:28:51 AM
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

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Located in Kerela, amidst the lush green forests of the Western Ghats, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is the most famous wildlife sanctuary in South India. It is also commonly known as the “Elephant Reserve” and the “Tiger reserve” and is spread over 777 km out of which the 360 km is covered by dense, evergreen forests.

It was declared a Tiger Reserve in the year 1972. Four species of primates are found at Periyar – the rare lion-tailed macaque, the Nilgiri Langur, Gee’s Golden Langur, Common Langur And Bonnet Macaque.

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Periyar wildlife sanctuary also has a 100 year old artificial lake which offers a one of a kind experience of observing and photographing wildlife from a very short distance. It is home to a 1000 elephants and 46 tigers as well as sambars, boars, deer, bison, lion-tailed macaques and so on.

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As if all this wasn’t enough, this unique sanctuary has 49 species of mammals, 246 species of birds, 28 species of reptiles, 8 species of amphibians, 22 species of fish and 112 species of butterflies. The Nilgiri Tahr, which is rarely to be seen also inhabits this park.

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In addition to all the fauna, the Periyar wildlife sanctuary is also known for its flora. Some of the deeper valley contains trees that have grown to a height of up to 130-140 feet and seem as though they’ve been there since the beginning of time. They form an extremely thick cover which even bright sunlight sometimes finds hard to penetrate.

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The edges of the lake and other water bodies contain marshy grasslands. Throughout the park one will also find areas of semi-evergreen forest which are used by many of the animal species as cover.

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You can also enjoy a trek to the ruins of the Mangala Devi Temple, a picturesque old stone temple situation in the heart of the Thekkady forest. However, most people come to Periyar to watch the elephants that come down to play at the lake.

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From the lovely scenery on the road up to the lake cruise and a walk through the jungle makes one long to come back for more.

Ideal time to visit the park: From the months of October till June.

How to Reach Priyar wildlife sanctuary:

Air : Kochi (Cochin) at 200 km or Madurai in Tamil Nadu at 140 km are the nearest airports from Periyar.

Rail : Kottayam at 114 km is the nearest railhead from Periyar.

Road : Kumily, the nearest town from Periyar is well served by both state and private buses from Kottayam, Ernakulam and Madurai in Tamil Nadu.
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on July 11, 2014, 09:31:35 AM
Hawa Mahal

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Situated in the picturesque city of Jaipur, the stunning Hawa Mahal overlooks one of the city’s main streets.  The palace, which is part of a huge complex is also popularly known as the “Palace of Winds” due to its unique design which allows wind to circulate freely through the 950 windows, keeping the palace cool.

This impressive five-storied, semi-octagonal structure was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Singh.

Its purpose was to allow royal ladies to observe everyday activities as well as to enjoy the processions without being seen.

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This architectural marvel is made up of small casements, each with small windows and arched roofs with hanging cornices.

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The overhanging balconies, domes and spires, carved sandstone grills and lace screens truly make it one of the finest examples of Rajpur artistry.

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Its fascia makes Hawa Mahal look more like a screen than a palace.

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Built as part of the City Palace located in Sireh Deori Bazaar, this monument is also known as “fantasy in pink stone”. Along with the numerous distinctive structures inside, the palace also has a museum near the entrance displaying a beautiful collection of handicrafts, paintings and many other such displays.

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The top storey of the palace offers magnificent views of the city and its many attractions. The entrance of the palace is from the back side.

Hawa Mahal Fee- Rs. 50

Hawa Mahal Timings- 9:30am-4:30pm (Open on all days)
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on July 11, 2014, 09:36:02 AM
Jadhavgadh Fort, Hotel Pune

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Jadhavgadh Fort is the world’s first museum heritage hotel & resort and offers an unparalleled experience. Built in 1710 by “Pilaji Jadhavrao”, a valiant Maratha general, the Jadhav Gadh fortress lies in the heart of the 25 acre Jadhav Wadi.

An imposing and impressive structure, the Fort Jadhavgadh Pune is now a unique luxury hotel and it stands, quite literally, in two worlds: the traditional and the modern.

Jadhavgadh is situated in the beautiful rolling hills of Saswad located 22 kms away from Pune on the old Pune – Satara Road at a height of 2511 ft above sea level.  Fort Jadhavgadh was made in the year 1710 as a place of residence as well as a safe haven when being attacked by enemies. Although not as magnanimous as other Maratha era Forts like Sinhagad, Jadhavgadh had quite a few architectural similarities and a fine example of Maratha craftsmanship. Built on a quaint hill top all that was visible of the fort, and still is, were the gigantic walls of brown black stones.

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The steps going up the main entrance were huge stone blocks making it easier for the animals like horses and elephants going up the fort. But the step way itself was curved. A sharp left turn after the initial climb and then again a steep climb with a left turn after entering through the main spiked doorway. This was essentially done to make the task of a probable enemy and his troops all the more cumbersome if they had to force entry through the main door, inadvertently giving precious time for those inside for last minute preparations.

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Inside the fort was divided into the outer walled area and an inner structure where the women folk resided. This area was also utilized for rain water harvesting, dexterously taking benefit of the ample showers the region received and saving water for future use. A number of dungeons were also made in the fort, the main purpose of these being to store grains and as was inevitable during those tumulus times, to keep prisoners of war. Till date, four of these enigmatic dungeons have been traced and are being restored. It is believed that one of the dungeons may be a secret pathway that Pilaji Jadhavrao and his men used in times of crisis.

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Fort Jadhavgadh is a hotel property with modern amenities catering to International Standards of a leisure hotel, without hurting its heritage status,which truly reflects the spirit of the local province, its people and its customs. Value-for-money luxury, after considering the secluded location and concept of a museum fort hotel, it is extremely neat and clean with the natives of the province making perfectly courteous hosts. Two restaurants, one serving authentic Maharashtrian cuisine and the other, a round the clock eatery, serving continental and Italian food (not quite great ) are the options in-house, whereas several dhabas (street side eateries serving variety of Indian cuisines) are in close proximity which do not belong to the hotel.

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The hotel also has a temple (which is a part of the ancient fort) consisting the idol of Lord Ganesha. It has premium rooms (the preferred mid-category to stay) with a choice of mountain views or rain shower equipped bath-spaces attached individually to each of such rooms.

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To conclude, Jadhavgadh Fort is a good family outing for the local people whereas a great, one of its kind cultural stay for foreigners seeking an exceptional life-time experience!
Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on July 11, 2014, 09:39:25 AM
Marina Beach, Chennai

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Enjoy these Stunning Marina Beach Pictures, which is a popular urban beach in the city of Chennai,  India along the Bay of Bengal. The beach runs from near Fort St. George in the north to Besant Nagar in the south, a distance of 13 km (8.1 mi), making it the longest urban beach in the country and the world’s second longest.

Bathing and swimming at the Marina Beach are legally prohibited because of the dangers, as the undercurrent is very turbulent. It is the among the most crowded beaches in the country.

Attractions in the Beach

Marina beach is a major tourist attraction of the city. People visiting Chennai make a point to visit the beach. It is also the main place for the local people to escape from the summer heat.The beach is popular for its shops and food stalls run by about 500-odd vendors. The memorials and statues, morning walk, joggers’ track lovers’ spot, aquarium, and the like make it a hangout for people of all ages. Kite flying and beach cricket are common sports at the beach, and there are also facilities for pony rides. The sea is generally rough and waves are strong. There are fishermen colonies present at both ends of the beach.

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Walking Path

In 2009, a 4.5-km-long stretch along the beach was announced plastic-free zone, prohibiting the sale and use of plastic. In November 2010, the corporation imposed a fine of 100 on the usage of plastic items that are less than 20 microns thick on the entire stretch. Within a couple of years since the ban, the use of plastics on the beach was reduced by 70 per cent.

In 2012, the government allotted 89 million for the renovation of the memorials of Anna and MGR. This include 12 million and 43 million towards renovation of Anna Memorial and MGR Memorial, respectively, 34 million towards additional construction at the MGR Memorial

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Events

Being the most prominent open space in the city, the Marina Beach hosts several events throughout the year. The annual Independence Day and the Republic Day ceremonial parades and air shows are held along the promenade along with the unfurling of the national flag in the Marina. The annual idol-immersion event following the Hindu festival of Vinayaka  Chathurthi takes place at the beach where most of the idols of Lord Ganesh kept on display during the festival in the city is immersed into the sea. The event occurs in the month of August–September. The beach is also the venue for several marathon and walkathon campaigns throughout the year conducted for various cause.

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Title: Re: ~ INCREDIBLE INDIA > LET'S TRAVEL TO INDIA ~
Post by: MysteRy on July 11, 2014, 09:44:48 AM
Stunning Alibag Beaches and Forts

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Beautiful Sea, a Fort that gets surrounded by sea water, a few temples and a lot of fun. Alibag (Alibaug) is the ideal place for a one day return trip. Alibaug is 145 kms away from Pune and 30km to the south of Mumbai. There are some stunning beaches here along with forts and temples!

The Kolaba/Kulaba fort lies 2 kms inside the sea. Kulaba fort gets surrounded by sea water at the time of tide. There are the Uma Maheshwar and Balaji temples in Alibag too.

Alibag was developed in 17th Century by Sarkhel Kanhoji Aangre the naval chief of King Shivaji’s Kingdom. Bene Israelite Ali was a rich man in the city and owned many plantations of mangoes, coconuts in his gardens. So the local people called the place Alicha bagh (Gardens of Ali) which became in due course, Alibag.

Alibag Fort

Alibag Fort: Alibag is the seat of District Administration of Raigad (formerly Kolaba) district since 1852. The name Kolaba is attributed to a Sea Fort Kolaba built by Shivaji the great, in 1680 to fight the mighty naval prowess of the Siddis’ (Abyssenians) of Janjira and the British of Mumbai. Kolaba fort is famous for many battles, between Siddis and Kanhoji Angre, the British and the Portugese.
Safety Tip – It is safe to go in the fort before or after 1 hours of fall. But one should always keep in mind that he should come back within 1 hour after the full fall. If you get stuck inside the fort you cannot come back for at least for 5 hours.

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Beaches in Alibag

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The following are the main beaches in and around Alibag:

Alibag beach: This is the main beach of the town.
Thal beach: Isolated Beach 5 km from Alibag.

Varsoli Beach:Located about a mile from the main beach, home to a very large naval base.It is situated just on the outskirts of Alibag. It is relatively less visited site and as a result is a quiet beach with sparkling white sand and cleaner seawater. Varsoli is a small satellite village across Alibag, complete with thick vegetation of coconut and Casuarina.

Akshi Beach: It is situated 8 km away from Alibag.The famous Kashid beach is located 18 km from Murud. The specialty of this beach is the beautiful slivery white sand. literally dazzling silvery on this clean beach. It is a favourite spot for advertising, TV serial and film shoots. The beach is complete with small-food stalls. This beach is well suited for the children and ladies as the sea is flat for a long distance. One can walk through to a considerable distance towards the sea.

Nagaon beach: It is situated about 10 km away from Alibag and is famous for coconuts and betel nuts.

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Kihim-Navgaon Beach: Kihim is a secluded place at a distance of 12 km from Alibag. The Kihim beach is famous for dense cover of Coconut trees. It is also famous for woods which are home to rare butterflies, birds and flowers.

Awas: It is situated about 16 km away from Alibag.

Saswane: It is situated about 18 km away from Alibag.

Rewas: It is situated about 24 km away from Alibag.

Chaul Revdanda: It is situated about 17 km away from Alibag.

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Kaneshwar Mandir: It is situated about 17 km away from Alibag to Karlekhind – Chondi road.13 km from Alibag in Northeast direction is this very famous Shiv temple on a 900 ft. high hill. It is a 5000 ft. long climb on well paved stairs, which takes around one hour. Landmarks along the route are tombs of MohanGiri and Balgiri, Nagoba Rest, Jambhali Plateau, God’s stair, Gaymandi etc. It comprises various small temples of Sri Paleshwar, Sri Hanuman, Sri Balram Krishna and Lord Shiv.

Mandawa: It is situated about 20 km north of Alibag. The catamaran/ferry services are available from Mumbai to the Mandawa jetty. Many Bollywood celebrities own bungalows here.

Kashid Beach: It is 36 km away from Alibag, on the Alibag-Murud highway, also this beach is possibly one of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in the region with almost ‘white’ sand. There are many cottages and resorts available ranging from around RS:1500 to RS:20,000. Prakruti resort is the luxury and the costliest of all. One can find water sports facility and number of small shops for snacks.

Korlai Beach: A quiet serene beach with alternate white and black sands, along a serene stretch of the Arabian coastine, adjacent to a village of Korlai Creole Portuguese speaking Indians.Just across the bridge, to the right there is Korlai fort within the sea and attached to the mainland by a narrow land strip through the Korlao fort through the Korlai Village. It is supposed to have been built by the Portuguese in 1521. The main gate has an inscription which means ‘no entry without a fight’. The fort has seven gates, a sweet water well, a church in disuse, a Hindu timple and a Lighthouse

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Hotels & Resorts in Alibag

‘KARPE WADI’- Agro Tourism center approved by ITDC. Must visit for good local food and Great Ambience.

“Kill nothing but Time, Carry nothing but Memories, Leave nothing but Footprints.”

Karpewadi Agro-Eco tourism hub practises sustainable management and encourages you to do so too. Located just 100 kms from Mumbai and 155 kms from Pune, Karpewadi is an ‘agrotel’ where proximity to Nature is the central theme. For those who crave for action, there is private beach access, a range of activities to choose from onsite and a number of sightseeing destinations nearby. Professionally managed services, a no- compromise approach to providing basic creature comforts and the best quality home- cooked cuisine ensure that you are well taken care of.

‘AQUA SPLASHH..’ – Maharashtra Maritime Board Approved Water Sports. They have certified lifeguards and well trained staff.

A vacation is all about fun. Adrenalin racing, heart thumping and amusement. At Aqua Splashh you get all that and a bit more — Memories. Come have the fun and tell the world what you did this vacation at Aqua Splashh. Enjoy shooting your loved ones or friends with Paint Ball. Celebrate the water waves in Jet Ski, Bumpy Rides, Banana Rides & Boat Rides. Enjoy the sea shore on All Terrain Vehicle ( ATV ) and Beach Buggy. Come make your vacation an unforgettable fun.

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Samudra manthan’- An ideal resort for groups

Prasanna’- Economical resort right next to the beach