Sanchi Stupa

Introduction and history: One the most wonderful structures of ancient India is the Stupa at Sanchi. It has been included by the UNESCO as one of the heritage sites of the world. The Sanchi Stupa is a fine example of the development of the Buddhist architecture and sculpture beginning from the 3rd century B.C. to the 12th century A.D. The site of Sanchi was discovered in the year 1818 by General Taylor and an archaeological museum was established in 1919 by Sir John Marshall. When the British came to India, this Stupa was quite dilapidated. Buddhism had been virtually wiped out in its country of origin by then. The archaeological Survey of India did a beautiful restoration job.

What to see and when to go: This place is the hub of great architecture and sculpture during the reigns of King Ashoka. The finest specimens of early classical art, the gateways are delicately carved and bears images from the life of Lord Buddha or King Ashoka. The images carved on the pillars and the Stupa tells motivating stories from the life of Buddha. The best time to visit this place is from November to February.

Things to do: Sanchi is unique, not only for having the most perfect and well preserved Stupa, but also for offering the visitor a chance to see, in one location, the genesis, flowering, and decay of Buddhist art and architecture during a period of about 1500 years — almost covering the entire range of Indian Buddhism. This is surprising as Sanchi was not hallowed by any incident in Buddha’s life nor was it ever the focus of any significant event in the history of Buddhism. The other attractions at Sanchi are The Ashoka Pillar, The Buddhist Vihara, and Archaeological Museums.

Accommodation: Sanchi, being a part of heritage India, gives you easy accommodation. There are many hotels ranging from Luxury to economy.

Mode of transport: The nearest airport is Bhopal, while the nearest railway station is at Vidisha (10 kilometres). Good drivable road connects Sanchi with Bhopal, Indore, Sagar, Gwalior, Vidisha and Raisen, besides other places.

Is it a world heritage site: Yes
• Item number: 524
• UNESCO link: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/524

See also (nearby places): Udaigiri, Videsha, Raisen, Gyaraspur, Udaipur, Sonari and Satdhara, Bija Mandal mosque, Udaigiri caves.

Khajuraho Temples

Introduction and history: Built over a period of hundred years, from 950 to 1050 AD, the temples of Khajuraho were never underwent massive destruction by early Muslim invaders between 1100-1400 AD. Only 22 of the original 85 temples still exist. The murals depict the life and times of the Chandelas, and celebrate the erotic state of being. They testify to not only the mastery of the craftsman, but also the extraordinary breadth of vision of the Chandela Rajputs under whose reign, these temples were constructed. Visiting Khajuraho is a unique experience and is an exciting location for conservationists, students, environmentalists, culture lovers or simply those in search of an exotic destination with multiple attractions.

What to see and when to go: The temples of Khajuraho are grouped into three geographical regions: western, eastern and southern. There are two temples in southern and six each in western and eastern regions. Khajuraho dance festival and Mahashivratri are the festivals worth experiencing. The best time to visit these temples is from September to March.

Things to do: Apart from visiting the temples at nominal fee of Rs 10 for Indians and $5 for foreigners, the sound and light show on the history is the must watch as it is embodied with the voice of Indian legend actor Amitabh Bacchhan. The fee for this show is Rs 50 for Indians and Rs 200 for foreigners.

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

Mode of transport: Khajuraho airport is just 5 km from the city centre and has flights bounded to Agra, Varanasi and Kathmandu. 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: www.khajuraho.org.uk

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 and Boating at Benisagar lake.

Gangotri And Gomukh

Introduction and History: The Gangotri is the source of river Ganga, which is called as Bhagirathi at this place. The origin river Ganga is at a place called Gaumukh, which is a 19 kilometers trek from Gangotri. This small town is situated in Uttaranchal state, centered on a temple of the goddess Ganga. The temple was built by the Gurkha General Amar Singh Thapa in the late 18th century. Due to its unique location Gangotri serves multi purpose as a pilgrimage spot, trekker’s delight and a place for nature lovers. Submerged in the river there is a natural Lingam where, according to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva sat when he received the Goddess Ganga in his matted locks.

What to see and when to go: This is an ideal place for trekking, which is the major tourist attraction. The Gangotri-Gaumukh-Tapovan and Gangotri-Kedartal trekking routes are known a famous place for trekking. May - June and Aug – Oct is the ideal time to visit this place.

Accommodation: There is good number of hotels located near Gangotri temple. State government approved tourist bungalows are also available. Unlike other tourist attractions, Gangotri doesn’t have many attractive places to stay. Travelers can also check out other accommodation options like Ashrams and Dharmashalas located there.

Mode of Transport: The nearby airport is Dehradun (24 kilometers), which is well connected with major cities in India. The nearest major railway junction is located in Rishikesh, which is about 250 kilometers away. Gangotri is also accessible directly by car and bus. Bus services of Samyukt Rotation Yatayat Vyawastha Samiti connect Gangotri with Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun, Delhi etc.

Related links:
• Uttaranchal official site: http://www.uttaranchal.ws/

See also (nearby places): Tapovan, Kedal tal, Dayara Bugyal, Uttarkashi, Harsil and the Nehru institute of mountaineering are some of the nearby attractions. Apart from that
the state of Uttaranchal is known for its pilgrimage tourist destinations like Auli, Yamunotri temple, Kedarnath temple, Badrinath temple and Sangura temple. The Jim Corbett National Park is another natural attraction nearby.

Bodhgaya And Mahabodhi Temple

Introduction and history: The place where Gautama Buddha attained unsurpassed, supreme Enlightenment is Bodhgaya. The term Mahabodhi literally means Great Awakening. The temple is one of the few early monumental brick structures to have survived in eastern India. Its enormous central tower (55 metres tall) is a 19th century renovation faithful to the earlier towers that existed on the site. The tower comprises numerous horizontal bands of mouldings and arch motifs that extend upward to an amalaka topped by umbrella-shaped forms, recalling the umbrella motifs found at Buddhist Stupa dating back to the time of Asoka and earlier. Around the central tower are four smaller towers added at the end of 19th century that mimic the form of the central tower.

What to see and when to go: The Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhgaya courtyard is filled with many Buddha statues and at the back of the temple is the sacred Bodhi Tree. A place called the ‘Jewel Walk’ is near the tree where Lord Buddha practiced walking meditation for seven days after enlightenment. The best time to visit this temple is from October to March.

Things to do: One can go for a picnic at the banks of the river Niranjana. A visit to Bodh Gaya archaeological museum is a must for an art lover.

Accommodation: Bodhgaya offers a fairly extensive range of accommodation facilities which includes three budget hotels, star hotels, and a number of guesthouses and tourist bungalows. In addition to the regular accommodation offered by commercial establishments, rooms (or beds) are offered by some monasteries in Bodhgaya.

Mode of transport: Patna, the capital city of state of Bihar, is the nearest airport, approximately 100 kilometres from the Bodhgaya. The nearest railway head is Gaya (15 kilometres). The main means of transportation within Bodhgaya are `Tongas’, cycle rickshaws and auto rickshaws.

Related links:
• Tourist information: www.mahabodhi.com

See also (nearby places): Sun Temple at Deo, Prestshila Hills, Vishnupad Temple at Gaya, Barabar caves, Dungeshwari , Muchalinda Lake , Gaya , Rajgir , Nalanda, Pawapuri, Patna, Maner, Sasaram, Vaishali .

Rishikesh

Introduction and history: The holy town of Rishikesh is located in Uttarakhand in India. It is located where the Ganges River comes down from the Himalayas. The town is still known as the World Capital of Yoga. It is believed that meditation in Rishikesh brings one closer to attainment of moksha, as does a dip in the holy river that flows through it. Rishikesh is also the Gateway to the Himalayas, where the sacred journey begins from here. According to Hindu mythology, Rishikesh is the abode of Shiva, where it is also believed that Lord Rama did penance here for killing Ravana, the demon king of Lanka. In the recent past the town is also becoming a popular spot for white water rafting enthusiasts, both from India and abroad, as it offers medium to rough rapids in the course of river Ganges.

What to see and when to go: Trayambakeshwar Temple, Lakshman Jhula, Triveni Ghat, Gita Bhavan, Swarg Ashram, Parmarth Niketan, Bharat Mandir and Neelkanth Mahadev Mela. Owing to the location it is ideal to visit Rishikesh between June to mid of October

Things to do: Apart from enjoying the places mentioned above travelers can also spend their time in learning Yoga, White water rafting, Rock climbing and Trekking.

Accommodation: There are ample amount of accommodation available at all price points starting from 150 rupees per day.

Mode of transport: The nearby airport is Dehradun (15 kilometers), which is well connected with major cities in India. The nearest major railway junction is located in Hardiwar, which is connected to Delhi (230 kilometers) with multiple frequent trains. Busses are available from Delhi, which would take 5-7 hours to reach Rishikesh.

Related links:
• Tourist information: http://www.rishikesh.org

See also (nearby places): Shivpuri is one of the most visited places near Rishikesh, which is 10 kilometers away. Rajaji National Park is another place for nature loves, which is just 20 minutes drive away.

Red Fort, New Delhi

Introduction and history: Red Fort, known as Lal Quila in Hindi, was constructed in 1639 A.D. by mughal emperor Shah Jahan. The art work of Fort is an odyssey of Persian, European and Indian art which gave rise to new style called Shahjahani style. It hides within itself the history of Mughal dynasty in India. The fort lies near Yamuna river and is used as a place to celebrate the independence day of India every year along with Prime minister’s speech. It has a wall that extends up to 2.5 kms and the height of the wall varies from 60ft to 100ft. It became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007.

What to see and when to go: This large fort has some heritage buildings within the premises which are: Naqqar Khana, Diwan-i-Aam, Nahr-i-Behisht, Hamam, Zenana, Khas Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, Moti Masjid and Hayat Bakhsh Bagh. The place is good to visit throughout the year and local guides are available for a person’s alacrity towards understanding the culture in depth.

Things to do: Apart from visiting Red Fort, one can visit Salimgarh Fort. It has its own history from Mughal Dynasty and its role before Red Fort was constructed. This fort has been renamed as Swatantrata Senani Samarak (Freedom Fighters’ Memorial) after India got Independence from British rule.

Accommodation: There are lots of hotels available depending on the budget. Hotels in Pahargunj area are very economical with price ranging about 350-4200 rupees per day.

Mode of transport: Delhi is very well connected to every part of India through rail, air and road routes. It has three railway stations namely: New Delhi, Old Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin. Also, it has three bus terminals, namely: Inter State Bus Terminus (ISBT) at Kashmiri Gate, Sarai Kale-Khan Bus Terminus and Anand Vihar Bus Terminus. The Indira Gandhi International Airport of Delhi is well connected with domestic and international flights. Taxis, buses, auto-rickshaw and metro railways are mode of transport for local travel.

See also (nearby places): Purana Quila, Chandni Chowk, Dolls museum, Akshardham Temple, Raj Ghat, India Gate, Jantar Mantar, Rashtrapati Bhawan, Humayun’s Tomb, Isa Khan’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, Safdargunj Tomb, Natural History Museum. National Rail Museum, Modern Art Gallery, Tiber House, Indira Gandhi Museum, Sanskriti Museum, Sangeet Natak Academy, Crafts Museum.

Ranthambore National Park

Introduction and history: Ranthambore National Park was a sanctuary till 1955, after which it was declared tiger preserve site in 1973. Finally, it was made a national park in 1982, due to intrusions from humans that depleted the tiger population. Spread over 392 square kilometres in the district of Sawai Madhopur, which is approximately 130 kilometres from the pink city Jaipur. Although much care is taken to protect tigers, the number of tigers has constantly reduced from 44 in 1982 to 26 in 2005 and in 2008 it does not get any better as it stands a mere 14.

What to see and when to go: The old Ranthambore Fort, which sits on a rocky outcrop in the heart of the Park, is the major attraction. Travellers can get the ecstatic experience to spot a tiger, by following the pugmarks with proper guidance. Other attractions include plenty of spotted chitals in the golden grass, a huge Barasingha with a pair of magnificent antlers in the shadows, antelopes like: Nilgais, Sāmbhar and Chital. One a lucky day, travellers get to see the Sloth Bear, Wild Boar, Chinkara, Porcupines and Jackals, Leopard, Jungle Cat and Marsh Crocodile. The lakes and water holes in the Ranthambore national park are the best places to sight the animals. The best time to visit this park is from October to June.

Things to do: While approaching Ranthambore sanctuary, one can see the green wheat fields and the mustard fields of Rajasthan with the ruins of old forts set atop hillocks surrounded by the yellow haze of mustard. A ride on the Tonga would add more fun to the journey.

Accommodation: There are many accommodation options available at Ranthambore. There are many wildlife resorts near Ranthambore, which offer accommodation ranging from comfortable rooms to luxury tents.

Ankur Resort
Ranthambhore Road
Sawai Madhopur - 322001
Phone : +91 7462/20792, 21257

Hotel Broadway
Agra Road
Jaipur - 302004
Phone : +91 141/641275-79
Fax : +91 141/640576

The Jaipur Emerald Hotel
Near Amarapura Sthan, M.I. Road
Jaipur - 302001
Phone : +91 141/370476, 378682-3

Mode of transport: The nearest Airport is available at Jaipur, from where one can take road journey to Ranthambore National Park, which is 130 kilometres away. Sawai Madhopur is the nearest railway station to reach this place. For local travel Jeeps offer the best mode.

Related links:
• Official Website: www.ranthamborenationalpark.com

See also (nearby places): Mansarovar lake, Surwal lake, Pali Ghat, Rameshwaram Ghat, Kandhar Fort, Amreshvar Mahadev Temple, The Ranthambore Fort and Ganesha Temple.

Humayun Tomb At Delhi

Introduction and history: The tomb of Humayun is located in the Nizamuddin area of Delhi. Humayun inherited Mughal dynasty in 1530 after the founder of Mughal Empire Babur. His addiction to luxury left the door open for ambitious men to plot behind his back. Ten years into his reign, Humayun was overthrown by the opportunist Sher Shah, who took advantage of Afghan tribesmen to force Humayun into exile in Iran. After coming back to Delhi and conquering Sher Shan in 1555, Humayun died in the same here. This monument was built by Hamida Banu Begum, Humayun’s widow starting in 1562. This monument is designed in Persian-style garden layout, which was the first of its kind. In fact this inspired several major architectural innovations, culminating in the construction of the Taj Mahal.

What to see and when to go: Humayun’s Tomb was the first garden tomb made in India, which is divided into 36 squares by water channels. The laying down of the gardens in the Persian style was introduced by Babur and continued till the period of Shah Jahan. On the way to Humayun’s tomb there are gateways, which offer a glimpse of the tomb. The place is good to visit throughout the year and local guides are available for a person’s alacrity towards understanding the culture in depth.

Accommodation: There are lots of hotels available depending on the budget. Hotels in Pahargunj area are very economical with price ranging about 350-4200 rupees per day.

Mode of transport: Delhi is very well connected to every part of India through rail, air and road routes. It has three railway stations namely: New Delhi, Old Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin. Also, it has three bus terminals, namely: Inter State Bus Terminus (ISBT) at Kashmiri Gate, Sarai Kale-Khan Bus Terminus and Anand Vihar Bus Terminus. The Indira Gandhi International Airport of Delhi is well connected with domestic and international flights. Taxis, buses, auto-rickshaw and metro railways are mode of transport for local travel.

Word heritage centre: Yes
• Item number : 232
• Official UNESCO link: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/232

See also (nearby places): Purana Quila, Chandni Chowk, Dolls museum, Akshardham Temple, Raj Ghat, India Gate, Jantar Mantar, Rashtrapati Bhawan, Red fort, Isa Khan’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, Safdargunj Tomb, Natural History Museum. National Rail Museum, Modern Art Gallery, Tiber House, Indira Gandhi Museum, Sanskriti Museum, Sangeet Natak Academy, Crafts Museum.

Gwalior Fort

Introduction and history: Gwalior is one of the important cities in Madhya Pradesh, where the ancient monument and modern development go hand-in-hand. The city has served as the center of several of North India’s historic kingdoms. Museums, art galleries and beautifully maintained palaces speak for the city and centuries gone by. The Gwalior Fort dominates the city as it is the most magnificent monument and the history traces it back to 15th century. The fort contains multiple statues of Jain Tirthankaras.The, who created the Jain community.

What to see and when to go: Apart from enjoying the main fort it consists of multiple other monuments like Man Mandir Palace, Teli ka Mandir, Jai Vilas Palace, Tansen’s Tomb in the nearby areas. In order to get the real historical information one can visit the nearby Gujari Mahal Archaeological Museum and Kala Vithika. Gwalior has a famous Zoo which is a good attraction for children. The ideal time to visit the fort the city is between July and March.

Things to do: Known for its art and culture, the Gwalior city is one of the best places to different kinds of local dances. Starting with Ahiri Dance and list grows with many others including Yadav dance, Saharia dances, Lur dance, Lanhgi dance and Dul-Dul Ghori dance.

Accommodation: There are many heritage hotels available in the city, which are cost effective. The average price will range from 500 to 1200 rupees per day for a good accommodation.

Mode of transport: The city is well connected with regular flights from Delhi & Bhopal. As the city forms a major junction in Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Chennai lines, there is ample number of trains on a daily basis. It is also well connected by regular bus service from places like Agra (65 kilometers) and Delhi (270 kilometers).
Timings:
• Sound and Lighting at the Fort : 7:30 PM to 9:15 PM (Summer time) and 6:30 PM to 8:15 PM (Winter time)
• Gwalior Zoo: 8 AM to 3 PM

Related links:
• Madhya Pradesh Tourism site : http://www.mptourism.com/
• Gwalior district official site: http://gwalior.nic.in/

See also (nearby places): Datia, Sonagiri, Tigra Dam, and The National Chambal sanctuary are some of the nearby places for nature lovers.

Interesting information:
• The city also produced music legends like Amjad Ali Khan and Dr. Ishwar Chandra Karkare.
• The earliest freedom fighters, Tantya Tope and the indomitable Rani of Jhansi, are commemorated in memorials in Gwalior.

Golden Temple At Amritsar

Introduction and history: The Golden Temple is located in the city of Amritsar, is the temple of God for Sikhs. Sikhs all over the world, daily wish to pay visit to Sri Amritsar. It is also known as Harmandir Sahib is considered holy by Sikhs because it is the eternal Guru of Sikhism. Guru Arjan Sahib, the Fifth Nanak, conceived the idea of creating a central place of worship for the Sikhs and he himself designed the architecture of Sri Harmandir Sahib. Earlier the planning to excavate the holy tank (Amritsar or Amrit Sarovar) was chalked out by Guru Amardas Sahib, the Third Nanak, but it was executed by Guru Ramdas Sahib under the supervision of Baba Buddha ji. The temple construction was started in 1570 and 1577.

What to see and when to go: The temple is surrounded by Sarovar lake. There are entrances to the temple on all four sides to welcome travelers from all directions. Inside the temple complex there are many shrines to past Sikh Gurus and saints. There are three holy trees each associated with a historical event or Sikh saint. Inside the temple there are many memorial plaques that commemorate past Sikh historical events, saints, martyrs. October to March is the ideal timeframe to visit this temple.

Accommodation: As Amritsar is one of the most famous temples in Punjab, there is lot of hotels available around the temple premises.

Mode of transport: The city of Amritsar is reachable and well connected by air, road and train. It has frequent flights connecting with various domestic and international locations. It also has a major train junction. The city has an international bus terminal operated by the Department of Transport, Punjab which is equipped with most modern amenities.

Related links:
• Tourist information: http://www.aboutgoldentemple.com/
• Official website: http://sgpc.net/

See also (nearby places): Akal Takht, Baba Atal, Gurudwara Lohgarh Amritsar, Ramsar Sahib, Gurudwara Dera Baba Nanak, Gurudwara Taran, Gurudwara Khadur Sahib, Gurudwara San Sahib, Baba Bakala, Damdama Sahib, Wagah Border, Gurudwara Anandpur Sahib and Gurudwara Kiratpur Sahib are some of the nearby religious and tourist attractions in Amritsar.

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