Ujjain

Introduction and history: The city of Ujjain is situated on the banks of the river Shipra the holy river. According to Hindu mythological tale, there was a churning of the ocean by the Gods and Demons happened to get the Nectar for attaining immortality. It is believed that during the wild scramble for immortality, a few drops were spilt from the Nectar which fell over Ujjain because of which it is regarded as a holy city. In the contemperory history the city was governed by the likes of Vikramaditya and Ashoka. Kalidas the famous poet wrote his thought provoking poetry from here. Today, Ujjain represents an interesting blend of an age old legacy and the modern day lifestyle. The Mahakal of Ujjayini is known among the twelve celebrated Jyotirlingas in India.

What to see and when to go: Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir, Chintaman Ganesh, Pir Matsyendranath, Bhartrihari Caves, Kaliadeh Palace, Mahakaleshwar and Sandipani Ashram are some of the major attractions of the city. This city can be visited throughout the year. The Kalidasa Academy, setup by the state government for promoting classical studies and research in Sanskrit. It is an important visit for travelers who want to understand the classical work done by this great poet.

Accommodation: There are multiple luxury and budget accommodation available in the city, which can go up to 3000 rupees per day. Government promoted guest houses are available offering extremely affordable accommodation.
Mode of Transport: Indore is the nearest Airport located at 55 Kilometers from the Ujjain. It is well connected by flights with Delhi, Bhopal and Mumbai. Ujjain’s railway station is connected by train with all major destinations in India. Regular bus services connect Ujjain with Indore, Bhopal, Ratlam, Gwalior, Mandu, Dhar and Omkareshwar.
Related links:

• Official Website: http://ujjain.nic.in/
• Tourist information: http://www.mptourism.com/

See also (nearby places): Amarkantak, Bandhavgarh,Bhopal, Gwalior and Indore are nearby tourist attractions.

Orchha

Introduction and history: The town of Orchha is located in Madhya Pradesh, was founded in the 16th century by Bundela Rajput chieftain Rudra Pratap. He choose the place along the Betwa river, which also served as its capital. Followed by him many smaller kings ruled the place, most notable was Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo who built the exquisite Jehangir Mahal. With its rich history the town of Orchha is famous for multiple palaces and temples built in the 16th and 17th centuries. In this medieval city, Orchha’s grandeur has been captured in stone, frozen in time and the architectural splendor of the monuments in Orchha reflects the glory of its rulers. Known for its rich heritage in Art, exteriors are interiors of these monuments represent the Bundela School of painting.
What to see and when to go: The Jehangir Mahal is the main attraction of Orchha, which was built in the 17th century to commemorate the visit of Emperor Jehangir to the town. Its rich architectural beauty is reflected in delicate Chhatris and trellis work. Raj Mahal, Rai Parveen Mahal, Chaturbhuj Temple, Laxminarayan Temple, Ram Raja Temple, Dinman Hardaul’s Palace and Phool Bagh are the main tourist attractions. The best time to visit Orchaa is between October and March.
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Accommodation: The accommodation available in Orchha is cheap and economical in nature. There is an important hotel located inside the Jehangir palace, which is called as Hotel Sheesh Mahal. There are not many luxury accommodations available here.

Mode of Transport: Gwalior is the nearest Airport located about 119 Kilometers from Orchha. It is well connected with Delhi, Bhopal, Indore and Mumbai. Nearest railhead is Jhansi, located at 16 Kilometers distance which is on the Delhi-Mumbai main line. All major mail and express trains stop at Jhansi. By road Orchha can be reached by taking the Jhansi-Khajuraho road, which is having regular bus services from Jhansi.

Related links:

• Bundelkhand District website: http://bundelkhand.in
• Tourist information: http://www.mptourism.com/

See also (nearby places): Jhansi, Gwalior, Khajuraho, Panna, Sunderbans, Kanpur and Pench are nearby tourist attractions.

Jabalpur

Introduction and history: The ancient city of Jabalpur is located in central India on shores of holy river Narmada. The Narmada River valley having world famous Marble Rocks the only of its kind in the world. The city name is derived from the Arabic word Jabal, meaning mountain. According to Hindu mythology, it is also believed that Jabalpur was a place where sale Jabalie attained salvation. During 8th Century it was taken over by the Kalachuri dynasty who made Jabalpur their capital. During the 16th century the Gond raja of Garha-Mandla extended his power over fifty-two districts, including the present Jabalpur. During the minority of his grandson, Asaf Khan, the viceroy of Kara Manikpur, conquered the Garha principality and held it at first as an independent chief. Eventually he submitted to the Mughal emperor Akbar. From time to time, the Mughal rulers tried to overrun it. The legendary Gond Queen Rani Durgavati also died fighting the Mughal forces led by the great Mughal Emperor Akbar.
What to see and when to go: Madan Mahal Fort, Sangram Saga, Bajana Math, Tilwaraghat, Bedaghat, Dhuandhar, Chausat Yogini Temple, Tripur Sundari Temple, Rani Durgavati Memorial and Pisanhari ki Madiya are some of the major tourist attractions in Jabalpur. The Narmadha Valley is another major attraction in Jabalpur, which is a treat for nature lovers. October to March is the ideal time to visit this place.
Accommodation: As Jabalpur is an important gateway for Kanha and Bandhavgarh National parks, it plays a significant part in state’s tourism. It offers a range of accommodation starting from low-end to high-end hotels. Most of the economy hotels are located near the main bus stand.

Mode of Transport: Jabalpur has an airport called Dumna, located at 20 Kilometers from the city center. It is connected with all major airports in India. Jabalpur’s railway station is connected with all major cities in India, having direct trains to Satna (189 Kilometers), Varanasi (505 Kilometers) and Bhopal (336 Kilometers). The National Highway number 7 (NH-7) connects the city by road with other nearby places. Regular bus services are available to the city.

Related links:

• Jabalpur District website: http://jabalpur.nic.in/
• Tourist information: http://jabalpurguide.com/

See also (nearby places): Kanha and Bandhavgarh National parks form the major nearby attractions. Marble rocks is another attraction nearby.

Indore

Introduction and history: Indore is the largest and the commercial capital of Madhya Pradesh. Situated on the Malwa Plateau, Indore is an important administrative headquarters. The city derives it name from its ‘Indreshwar’ temple, which is located near the banks of river Saraswati. One of the rulers, Nandlal Singh found the location to be safe, being surrounded by rivers started moving multiple operations to this place. Followed by that, he built the Shree Sansthan Bada Rawala fort to protect his people, primarily from Marathas and Mughals. The ancestral origin of Indore traces back to its founders, belonging to traditional lana owners of Malwa, from there the power was passed on to the Mughal. Post India’s independence, Indore along with a number of other princely states, became part of the state of Madhya Bharat, which eventually became Madhya Pradesh.

What to see and when to go: The Lalbagh Palace of the Holkars on the banks of the Khan River is one of the grandest monuments the Holkar dynasty left to Indore city. Other attractions include Krishnapura Chhatris, Khajrana, Kanch Mandir, Rajwada, Bada Ganapati and Annapurna Mandir. October to March is the ideal time to visit Indore.

Accommodation: There are multiple luxury hotels available at Indore, which are run by famous hotel chains at the most prominent sections of the city. Being the industrial and tourist hub of Madhya Pradesh, there are multiple options for accommodation. A luxury accommodation can cost up to 5000 rupees per day.

Mode of Transport: Indore has its International Airport, located at a distance of 8 Kilometers form the city. Being the most important airports in the state, it is connected with all the major cities of the country, including and international locations. The city has four railway stations from where connecting trains to all the metro cities and the other important neighboring cities. Well maintained national highways (NH-3, NH-69, and NH-86) provide excellent road journey to and from Indore.

Related links:

• Official Website: http://indore.nic.in/
• Tourist information: http://www.indoreonline.com/

See also (nearby places): Ujjain, Patal Pani, Omkareshwar, Dewas and Bhopal are nearby tourist attractions.

Bhopal

Introduction and history: The city Bhopal is the capital of Madhya Pradesh. Founded during the 11th century by Raja Bhoja, it today presents a multi-faceted profile. Followed by its formation the city was originally named as ‘Bhojpal’, with its first part derived from the founder and the second one meaning the dam (’pal’), which he constructed to form the lakes surrounding Bhopal. It is also the second largest Muslim state in pre-independence period ruled by four Begums from 1819 to 1926. Though India achieved Independence in August 1947, the ruler of Bhopal acceded to India only on 1 May 1949. Even though the modernization has happened in the city the old city old mosques and palaces still taking us back in time. The city is also known as the ‘Lake City’ as its landscape has a number of natural as well as manmade lakes.

What to see and when to go: During the Begum rule, they constructed Jama Masjid which has cold spikes crown this beautiful mosque. There are multiple other mosques which include Moti Masjid, Shaukat Mahal, Sadar Manzil, Taj-ul-Masajid and Gohar Mahal. The government promoted Archaeological Museum is another place to take a walk back in the history. Van Vihar, Regional Science Centre, Upper and Lower Lakes are other major attractions in Bhopal, which can be visited during any part of the year.
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Accommodation: Being the capital city, Bhopal offers accommodation in all sizes and shape. The governments promoted luxury hotels are available, where accommodation can cost up to 5000 rupees per day.

Mode of Transport: Bhopal has its Airport where regular flights connect it with Delhi, Gwalior, Jabalpur, Indore and Mumbai. It forms one of the important railway junctions of Madhya Pradesh, which falls on the Delhi route. Regular bus services connect Bhopal with nearby cities of the state which include Indore (186 Kilometers), Ujjain(188 Kilometers), Khajuraho(383 Kilometers) and Gwalior(423 Kilometers).

Related links:

• Official Website: http://bhopal.nic.in/
• Tourist information: http://www.mptourism.com/

See also (nearby places): Bhimbetka Caves, Sanchi, Pachmarhi, Udaigiri and Bhojpur are some of the nearby tourist attractions.

Almora

Introduction and History:Almora is a small tourist and also a cantonment town situated at an altitude of 1600 meters in the state of Uttaranchal in India. It has a quaint picturesque setting, with gushing rivers, snow-capped peaks and thick forests. Situated on a horse-saddle shaped ridge, it is one of the three hill districts of Kumaon range of the Himalayas. Almora town was founded in 1560 by Raja Kalyan Chand and has the distinction of being one of the few hill stations not founded or developed by the British in India. The place offers comfort to tourists without being overly urbanized and retains its cultural heritage. Vivekananda and Mahatma Gandhi have visited this place. He had left behind an elaborate account of the pleasures of solitude and the varied moods of nature in his various letters written from this place to his daughter. Numerous temple festivals and fairs are organized which attract many people from all over India.

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What to see and when to go:There are many places to sightsee in and around this small town. However the most famous among tourists are the Chitai temple that has a huge collection of pretty brass bells donated by devotees (since centuries), the very sacred and important Kasar davi temple and also Nanda Devi temple. Bright End Corner and Martola are beautiful picnic spots. Vivekananda memorial and library is also a nice place to visit for interested tourists. Govind Vallabh Pant Public Museum, Lala Bazaar is other attractions. Not only is the town of Almora, but nearby getaways to Ranikhet, Binsar and Kausani bound to enchant any tourist. The best season to visit is from April-June and from September to December.

Things to do: Taking a leisurely stroll through the town to take in the scenic beauty and splendor of the distant hills is something that should not be missed out. Sunrise and sunset views at Bright End corner are highly recommended. Binsar is an ideal place for nature-lovers. Lala Bazaar and Karkhana bazaar are popular markets for shopping.

AccomodationsVarious types of hotels and resorts are available to suit all budgets. Many hotels charge from 500 up to 2000 rupees per day.

Mode of Transport Almora is easily accessible from many parts of the country. The nearest airport is at Pantnagar which has regular flights during summer. The nearest railway station is at Kathgodam (90 Kilometers), which in turn is well-connected with

Dehradun

Introduction and History :Dehradun is the capital of Uttarakhand state in India and is a very famous hill-station. Renowned educational, engineering organizations, research institutes such as world-renowned Forest Research Institute are located here. The city is famous for basmati rice, lychees. According to Mahabharata, the city was founded by Guru Dronacharya. Doon is a reference to a local term used for a river valley between a smaller range (Shivaliks) and the main Himalayas. Dehradun celebrates the Jhanda Fair on the fifth day after Holi every year in March/April. The Tapkeshwar temple of Dehradun celebrates the Shivarathri fair. The city was given a boost by the Brits who transformed it into a hill station.

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What To See :Visit the majestic and beautiful Tapkeshwar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. A place called Tapovan is said to have a mythological connection with the roots of Dehradun. Pilgrims will also find a temple for Lakshmann Siddh.Also visit the sai Darbar and Tibetan temple. Malsi Deer park among others is a tourist hotspot. Robber’s cave is yet another picnic spot to marvel at the beauty of this city. Visit the world renowned Forest Research institute located here. A must visit is the place called Sahashtradhara, renowned for its hot water sulphur springs of curative nature. The best season to visit is during the summer from April to July.

Things to do : Dehradun is famous for its woolen wear. Sahakari Bazaar, Rajpur Road, Astley Hall, Paltan Bazaar, and Connaught Place offer countless opportunities to purchase.The ski resort at Auli near Dehradun attracts enthusiasts from all over the country and abroad. The valley of flowers, Har-ki-Doon, Dodital, and Pindari glacier etc. make excellent trekking routes from Dehradun. Asan Barrage water sports resort is another place for adventure lovers.Things to do: Dehradun is famous for its woolen wear. Sahakari Bazaar, Rajpur Road, Astley Hall, Paltan Bazaar, and Connaught Place offer countless opportunities to purchase.The ski resort at Auli near Dehradun attracts enthusiasts from all over the country and abroad. The valley of flowers, Har-ki-Doon, Dodital, and Pindari glacier etc. make excellent trekking routes from Dehradun. Asan Barrage water sports resort is another place for adventure lovers.

Accomodations :Many hotels are available at an economical price. Budget tariff ratings are less than 2000 Rupees per day. Expensive hotels and resorts are also available.

Mode Of Trasport :The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport (25 Kilometers) that is directly connected to Delhi. The city is well-interconnected by railways. Delhi, Calcutta, Mumbai, Varanasi, Lucknow and other places can be reached. Excellent roads link Dehradun with other cities and tourist places.

Related links :
• Official website: http://www.dehradun.nic.in
• Tourist information: http://www.gmvnl.com

See also : Mussourie, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dakpathar,Chakrata and Kalsi

Chaturbhuj Temple

Introduction and Histroy :The Chaturbhuj Temple is the only temple in Khajuraho which lacks erotic sculptures, with the bands on the walls of the temple set with images of dikhpalas, ashtavasus, nymphs and the recesses of mythical lions. The history of the Chaturbhuj temple, Orchha is associated with an interesting legend that imposes the faith of the people.It is said that Maharani Gansh Kunwar, wife of the Ruler of Orchha, raja madhukar built the temple for Lord Rama. She wanted to relocate the idol of Rama that was placed in Rani Niwas, her private apartments to the temple.But the idol refused to move.Thus , the king instead of Lord rama, places the idol of Lord Vishnu, with four arms in the temple. That is how; the name Chaturbhuj temple was attained.

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What To See :An amazing architecture from the ancient time, the Chaturbhuj Temple has a huge meditation hall that attracts devotees mostly from the Krishna- bhakti cult. The artistically carved conical shaped shikharas of the Chaturbhuj Temple add to the beauty of this religious shrine. Best time to visit this shrine is from September to March period.

Things to do: Apart from visiting this temple, one can definitely enjoy the other temples and the great archeological structures at Khajuraho. Duladeo temple is nearest temple and is a must visit as you would have covered the Southern group temples of Khajuraho.

Accomodations :Accommodation at Khajuraho is ranging from budget to deluxe. Hotels in here offer good accommodation at your price.

Mode Of Transport :Khajuraho airport is just 5 kilometers from the city centre and has flights bounded to Agra, Varanasi and Katmandu. Mahoba, Satna and Jhansi are the nearest railway stations. Khajuraho is connected by regular bus services from Mahoba, Harpalpur, Satna, Jhansi, Gwalior, Agra, Jabalpur and Bhopal. Khajuraho is 590 kms from Delhi.

Related links:• Tourist information: http://www.mptourism.com/
See also (Nearby places): Benisagar Lake, Ranguan Lake, Pandav Waterfall, Ranch Waterfalls, Rajgarh Palace, Panna, Dhubela Museum, Ajaygarh Fort, Kalinjar Fort, Panna Diamond Mines, Panna National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park, Angling at Benisagar and Ranguan lake, Boating at Benisagar lake, Western group and eastern group temples at Khajuraho.

Holy City Of Varanasi

Introduction And History : Varanasi, also known as Benares or Kashi, is situated on the western bank of Ganges. The name Varanasi has derived from two streams; The Varuna on the north side of the city and the Assi, a small trickled on the south. This city has been a symbol of Hindu renaissance, Knowledge, philosophy, culture, devotion to Gods, Indian arts and crafts. The history of Varanasi is very old but it however lives in the form of old manuscripts and the folk traditions; however most importantly through its people.

What to see and when to go: Varanasi has 7 km long sweep of about 100 bathing ghats along the western bank of Ganges. Most tourist attractions are Ramnagar , Chunar Fort , Ram Nagar Fort and Palace , ABC Art Gallery , Banaras Hindu University (B.H.U) , Asoka Pillar , Vishwanath temple (Golden Temple) , Durga Temple , Kedareshvara Temple , Sankat Mochan Temple , Shoal Temple and Chausath Yogini Temple . The best time to visit this holy city is from October to March.

Things to do: With a rich and cultural heritage, Varanasi rewards its visitors will a glittering array of festivals, with plenty of things to do, and fun events to get involved with. One of the biggest of all the annual events staged in Varanasi is without question the cities ever-popular Ganga Festival (Ganga Mahotsav), which takes place over a period of five days each October or November.

Accommodation: Varanasi finds its place with delight in every heart. The hotels and rest houses are available as per your pocket. It ranges from a lodge near bank of Ganges to five start hotels.

Mode of transport: It is very well connected through rail, road and air routes across the India. Cycle rickshaws and auto rickshaws are the most widely available public transport within Varanasi. If the pocket permits, taxi and cabs are also available.

Related links:
• Tourist information: http://www.varanasicity.com/

See also (nearby places): Jaunpur, Kaimur Sanctuary, The Mukha waterfall, Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary, Chunar Fort at Chunargarh, Vindhyavasini, Asthbhuja and Kalikhoh temples at Vindhyachal, Tanda Fall, Wyndham Fall, Kaushambi, Shrines at Allahabad, the Lucknow city.

Sarnath And The Stupa

Introduction and history: Sarnath, about 10 kilometers in the north-east of the holy city of Varanasi, is the blessed locale where more than 2,500 years ago Buddha chose to deliver his first sermon, after attaining Nirvana. Dhamek Stupa marks the place where Lord Buddha gave away his first sermon after he got enlightened in Bodh Gaya. Dhamek Stupa is arguably the most remarkable structure at Sarnath. Typical of Stupas of that period, Dhamek is cylindrical in shape with a base that is more than 28 meters in diameter. The Stupa stands 31.3 meters above the pedestal whereas the entrance measures 43.6 meters on its feet.

What to see and when to go: The architectural pattern of Dhamek Stupa is unique in its own way. The decorative patterns on the trunk of Stupa are mesmerizing. Panels that are carved with geometric and floral designs mark the trunk of Dhamek Stupa. The design also consists of a broad band of Swastika (fylfot). These Swastikas have been carved in different geometrical patterns with a finely chiseled lotus wreath, running over and below it. It has been explored that the structure was expanded and enlarged as many as 12 times in the course of history. One can visit Sarnath any time of the year, however it is recommended to visiting during the months from October to March.

Things to do: Sarnath is a much-frequented pilgrim centre not only for the Buddhists but for the Jains and Hindus as well. Apart from Dhamek Stupa, you can visit Dharmarajika Stupa, Ashok’s column, Mulagandhakuti Vihara Temple and Deer Park.

Accommodation: There is tourist bungalow at Sarnath for staying there. However, since its proximity to the holy city of Varanasi, visitors often tend to stay at Varanasi.

Mode of transport: Closest airport and railway station is Varanasi. The place is very well connected through road as well. For local travel multiple options are available in form of cab, auto or rickshaw.

Related links:

• Tourist information: www.varanasicity.com

See also (nearby places): Ghats at Varanasi, Royal Museum at Ramnagar and Chunnar fort.

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