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.

Kangra

Introduction and history: Kangra town is a picturesque spot in the confluence of Bener and Majhi streams, overlooking the Ban Ganga torrent, in Kangra District, Himachal Pradesh. In ancient times, this historic town, then called Nagarkot, had witnessed several invasions and political upheavals. The ruined Kangra Fort stands testimony to its glorious past. The region is also known for its ancient temples. Kangra was the ancient capital of the erstwhile rulers of Chand dynasty, but faced a series of invasions by Mahmud of Ghazni in AD 1009 and Feroz Shah Tughlaq in AD 1309. It was under the reign of Maharaja Sansar Chand Katoch that Kangra witnessed an upsurge in miniature paintings. Although a severe earthquake in 1905 destroyed most of the palace buildings, you can still see some of the paintings and murals on its walls.

What to see and when to go: There are many temples to visits such as Behna Mahadev, Brajeshwari Temple, Brijraj Behari Temple, Masrur Temple, Shiva Temple and Siddhanatha Temple. Kangra fort and Sujanpur forst are a must watch to understand the history of Kangra. The ideal time to visit Dharamshala is from the months of May to October.

Things to do: Kangra gives opportunity to become a wild-life lover by exploring the virgin jungles around that. One can visit the Pong Lake sanctuary and other nature parks at Kufri, Manali and Gopalpur.

Accommodation: There are lot of hotels available depending on the budget. The hotels are spread well across the valley and one can suite themselves as per his own preferred style of accommodation.

Mode of transport: Kangra airport is 7 Kilometres away and has got straight flights from Delhi. Nearest railhead at Pathankot is 86 Kilometres away and one is situated at Mukarian is 30 Kilometres. Kangra Valley express is a narrow gauge train, starting from Pathankot and continues to Bajinath. Kangra is well connected by road with Dharamsala, which is 18 Kilometres away. Tourists can hire taxis at reasonable cost from the major intersection of the city.

Related links:

• Official web site: www.hpkangra.nic.in

See also (nearby places): Macleodganj, Chamunda, Haripur, Dharamshala, Bhagsunath, Jawalamukhi, Nadaun, Una, Bilaspur, Rohtang Pass, Keylang, Manali, Kullu Valley, Pragpur.

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.

Ellora

Introduction and history: Ellora caves, also known as ‘Verul Lani’ locally, are located 30 kilometres North-West of city Aurangabad. Spanning a period of about 600 years between the 5th and 11th century AD, the earliest excavation here is of the Dhumar Lena (cave 29). The most imposing excavation is, without doubt, that of the magnificent Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) which is the largest single monolithic structure in the world. These caves, unlike those of Ajanta, were never lost only because of their proximity to the trade routes since ancient period.

What to see and when to go: The exquisite carvings and paintings found in Ellora are its major highlights. These carvings have marks of Hindu, Jain and Buddhsim expressions. The wooden beams, graceful angles, steps and the mystical figures of gods and goddesses are absolutely spellbinding. They exhibit the creative excellence of the artist of that time. The best time to visit these marvellous caves is during the monsoon season that spans from Late-June to early November.

Things to do: All the caves at Ellora face west and can be seen best in the afternoon. Although, the Ellora caves are not much different from the Ajanta in terms of space and time, the Chaityas and Viharas of Ellora are architecturally and sculpturally quite different. It is interesting to note that the Ellora representations are earthier, taking elements from the Vajrayana school of Buddhism. This is the primarily reason why the dwarapalas, the gigantic Boddhisattavas and their consorts have lot of earthiness about them. The Ellora Caves are known more for their architectural skills rather than the sculptural aesthetics that Ellora is noted for.

Accommodation: There are hotels available at Aurangabad depending on the tourist’s pocket. Travellers can also choose to stay at Mumbai, Nashik or Pune so as to make a perfect trip to the caves.

Mode of transport: Aurangabad is connected to metro cities in India through rail, road and air. Nearest Airport, railway station and bus station to Ellora caves is Aurangabad. It is recommended to hire taxis for local transport for tourists.

Related links:
• Related Website: www.indiasite.com/maharashtra/aurangabad/ellora.html

See also (nearby places): Dalutabad fort, Ghrishneshwar Temple, Ajanta Caves, Khuldabad, Lonar, Shani Shignapur, Pariyon ka Talab (Lake of Fairies), Paithan and Pithalkora

Elephanta

Introduction and history: Elephanta caves, was known ancient times as ‘Gharapuri’ or The Place of Caves during the ancient times. The Portuguese took possession of the island and named it ‘Elephanta’ after the great statue, which they had found on the seashore. There are in all seven caves, of which the most important is the Mahesha-Murti Cave. The main body of the cave, excluding the porticoes on the three open sides and the back aisle, is 27 m square and is supported by rows of six columns. The gigantic figures of Dvarapalas, or doorkeepers are very impressive.

What to see and when to go: The main temple consists of a large pillared hall and there exists a freestanding square shrine at the west end of the hall. The pillars and relief in the cave are gigantic in scale. Set in various niches are a number of large reliefs depicting different aspects of Shaivaite iconography. Around the perimeter of the cave are sculptured compartments with images from the Hindu mythology. The best time to visit these beautiful caves is from the months of November to March.

Things to do: Elephanta Island is a scenic beauty and a piece of solace, with light-green foliage and monkeys scampering about. It is strongly recommended that visitors do not bring any food to avoid any interaction with moneys. This place is depicting Lord Shivas different avatar. While you enter from the north gate, a 6.3 meter tall sculpture of three faced Shiva will take away your breath. The three faces depict his role as a creator, protector and destroyer. As you progress you will come across his other avatars as Yogisvara, Shiva Nataraja, and Ardhanarivra.

Accommodation: Mumbai is the commercial capital of India and offers wide variety of accommodation depending on your budget. You can choose your accommodation price from 200 Rupees to a five-digit number.

Mode of transport: You would have tae a ferry from Apollo port near gate way of India. Mumbai is very well connected to rail, road and water ways to national and international regions.

Related links:
• Related Website: www.templenet.com/Maharashtra/elephanta.html

See also (nearby places): Crawford Market, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Flora Fountain and the Gothic/Victorian buildings of the Fort Area, Jehangir Art Gallery, Prince of Wales Museum, National Gallery of Modern Art, Gateway of India, Marine Drive and Chowpatty Beach, Malabar Hill, Mani Bhavan, Mahalaxmi Temple, Haji Ali Shrine, Siddhivinayak Temple, Juhu Beach.

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 .

Bhubaneswar

Introduction and history: Bhubaneswar city is the capital of Orissa state, which derives its name from Bhuban (Universe) and Swarg (God).The Eswar, which is the alternate name for Shiva is known as ‘Tribuhuvaneswara’ here which means ‘Lord of the Three Worlds’. Hundreds of temples surround the city, which once had more than 2000 temples. History traces back its origins back about one thousand years ago the Kalinga period, when it was knows as ‘Temple Town’ for its Orissan style architecture. Today the city is the state capital, which is primarily responsible for administration of the state. Added to that, it also makes an ideal tourist destination.

What to see and when to go: There are number of tourist attractions, mainly the temples. Starting with Lingaraj Temple, the list of other temples includes Markandeswar Temple, Mukteswar, Mohini Temple, Papanasini, Parsurameswar Temple, Rajarani Temple, Vaital Temple. The Khandagiri and Udaygiri caves, situated about 8 kilometres from the city, serves as the site of an ancient Jain monastery, dating back to second century. It has some of the caves have beautiful carvings, which is one of the masterpieces. October to March is the ideal time for travellers to visit Bhubaneswar.

Accommodation: There are numerous hotels available in the city, which can accommodate every type of visitor. The Orissa Tourism Development Corporation’s ‘Panthanivas’ is available for more budget accommodation. The price will range from 750 to 8000 rupees per day.

Mode of transport: Being the capital city, Bhubaneswar is well connected by air, rail and road to the rest of India. Local travel can be arranged by booking taxis.

Related links:
• Tourist information : http://www.orissatourism.gov.in
• City information: http://www.come2bhubaneswar.com/

See also (nearby places): Dhauli, Hirapur, Nandankanan and Atri are some of the nearby tourist attractions.

Port Blair

Introduction and history: Port Blair is the classic, small but picturesque town which is the capital of Andaman and Nicobar islands off the east coast of India. It also serves as a major base for the Indian Navy. Owing to its silent beaches, crystal clear waters, exquisite coral life and virgin islands, it is often referred to as a Tropical Paradise that has recently received the appreciation of divers and nature-lovers alike. It is named after Lieutenant Archibald Blair of the East India Company. The imposing Cellular jail (nicknamed ‘Kala-pani’) is the sole reminder of the gloomy times when Port Blair served as a penal colony for the British during the Indian independence movement.

What to see and when to go: The Cellular jail, Samudrika Marine museum, Anthropological museum, The Zoo and forest and fishery museums all have something unique to offer. The best time to visit these tropical islands is between mid November and April.

Things to do: Water Sports complex is famous for snorkelling, boating, wind surfing and even water-skiing. Trekking the Mt. Harriet, pleasant beach walks by the Corbin’s cove, visits to the beautiful islands nearby. Cinque Island has some of the finest coral reefs. The Samudra, Port Blair Underwater and Andaman’s Adventure Sports provide experienced guides and dive equipment to go scuba diving–a journey that is sure to enthral any visitor.

Accommodation: Hotels accommodating all ranges are available. Rents can vary from as low as 100 rupees to as high and expensive as 5000 rupees per day. Middle range hotels charge around 700 rupees.

Mode of transport: Due to the hilly terrain, bicycling can be difficult. Bikes and motorcycles can be rented. Taxis are also available. For inter-island movement regular ferries and boats are the best choice. Port Blair can be reached by regular flights from Kolkata and Chennai.

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

See also (Nearby places): Neil Island, Long Island, Rangat, Cutbert Bay beach, Mayabunder, Diglipur and Little Andaman Island.

Ajanta

Introduction and history: Situated 100 kilometres from the city of Aurangabad, Ajanta caves are one of the most magnificent Buddhist caves in the entire India. John Smith, a British captain, accidentally discovered them in 1819, while on a hunting expedition. The 29 caves at Ajanta provide a unique combination of architecture, sculpture and paintings. The carvings and the paintings in the caves depict the life stories of Lord Buddha. Along with this, several types of human and animal figures are also carved out of the rocks.

What to see and when to go: There caves are divided into ‘Chaitya-Grihas’ (Stupa halls) and ‘Viharas’ (dwelling halls). Around five of these caves (9, 10, 19, 26 and 29) are ‘Chaitya-Grihas’. The rest of the caves are ‘Sangharamas’ or Viharas (monasteries). The caves 1, 2, 16 and 17 are important from the art point of view. It is said that if you are in Maharashtra, Ajanta caves are a must visit, so you can travel any time throughout the year.

Things to do: Cave 1 & 2 depict paintings including, variety of designs, scrollwork, geometric patterns, miniature seated Buddha’s, dream of the Buddha’s mother, Maya and the birth of the Buddha, procession of female devotees carrying offerings and scenes from the Hamsa Jataka and Vidhurapandita Jataka. Caves 4 & 6 are Viharas or Monasteries of architectural interest. Cave 9, 10, 12 & 15A, are Chaitya Halls of the Hinayana period. Each cave has something special hidden from the history.

Accommodation: There are hotels available at Aurangabad depending on the tourist’s pocket. Holiday resort at Fardpur is just 4 km from caves and provides clean and comfortable accommodation.

Related links:
• Official Website: http://www.ajantacaves.com

See also (nearby places): Dalutabad fort, Ghrishneshwar Temple, Ellora Caves, Khuldabad, Lonar, Shani Shignapur, Pariyon ka Talab (Lake of Fairies), Paithan, Pithalkora, Shirdi, Nasik.

Vivekananda Memorial, Kanyakumari

Introduction and history: The Vivekananda memorial is a rock located in Kanyakumari district about 500 meters from the main land. This is one of the important monuments which speak for India’s spiritual wealth and one of its masters Swami Vivekananda. When Swami visited this place in 1892, he went on deep meditation thereby making it one of the ideal places to attain solace. Kanyakumari has been named after the Goddess Kanyakumari amman who is the popular deity of the area. Legend has it that the Goddess parvati in one of her incarnations as Devi kanni did penance on one of the rocks of this land’s end to obtain the hand of Lord Shiva.

What to see and when to go: The memorial consist of two main portions namely Vivekananda mantapam and Shripada mantapam. The former is ideal place for performing meditation and the later forms the outer platform, which serves as an excellent vista point. This is ideal to visit any time during the year.

Things to do: Apart from visiting Vivekananda memorial, one can check out yoga camps nearby in the Vivekanandapuram area.

Accommodation: There is lot of hotels available depending on the budget. Hotels in Vivekanandapuram are very economical with price ranging about 300-500 rupees per day.

Hotel Pioneer Paradise
Tower Junction,
Nagercoil
Kanyakumari
Tamil Nadu
Tele:04652-238451,238542,238544

Hotel Manickam
East car street,
Near seashore,
Kanyakumari.
Tamil Nadu
Tele:04652-246387,246687

Hotel Sangam
Main Road,
Kanyakumari
Tamil Nadu
Tele:04652-246351,246352,246629

Mode of transport: The nearest Airport to Kanyakumari is Trivandrum (80 kilometers), the capital city of Kerala. For train journey, one needs to get down at Kanyakumari junction itself, where many long distance trains are available. Taxis are the main mode of transport for local travel.

Related links:
• Official website: http://kanyakumari.nic.in/
• Vivekananda memorial: http://www.rockmemorial.org/

See also (nearby places): Suchindrum, Udayagiri Fort, Mathoor Hanging Bridge, Padmanabhapuram Palace, Uppirika Malika, The Navarathri Mandapa, Pechiparai Dam, Peer Mohammed Durga, Tirparappu Water Falls, Maruthuva Malai, Chitharal, Muttom Beach, Sanguthurai Beach, Vattakottai (Circular Fort), Chothavilai Beach, Ulakkai aruvi, Mukkadal, , Sri Padaparai, Kanyakumari amman temple, Gandhi mantapam, Vivekananda pictorial exhibition, Thiruvalluvar statue, St.Francis Xavier church and wandering monk exhibition.

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