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.

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.

Lake Palace In Lake Pichola

Introduction and history: The Lake Palace is located right in the middle of Lake Pichola, Udaipur Rajasthan. It was conceived in romance by the Maharana Jagat Singh, which is now called as Jag Niwas. The boat ride in the blue waters of the Lake Pichola, especially, in the backdrop of setting sun is enough to seduce anybody to come to it. It is one of the most beautiful holiday spots of the world, the one-time summer residence of the royalty of Udaipur. It has now been converted into a magnificent heritage hotel with beautiful pavilions, planned out gardens and legends that always move hand-in-hand with any Rajasthani marvel.

What to see and when to go: Pichola is encircled on all sides by numerous palaces, marble temples, family mansions, dark hills and rows of bathing ghats which is thronged by bathers at dawn. The lake at places narrows down and both its banks almost touch each other. Here, at these places the lake is spanned with ornamental bridges and their attractive arches. Another interesting spot on the lake is the Shikarbadi or the Khas Odi. As the winter season in Rajasthan is extremely cold, it is suggested to visit the place between September and March.

Things to do: Udaipur has many other tourist attractions as well. It is an incredibly beautiful small city with tranquil lakes surrounded by gently rolling hills, which is popularly known as “city of lakes”. Some of the other attractions include Jagdish Temple, Lake Fateh Sagar, Saheliyon-ki-Bari, Jag Mandir, and Nathdwara.

Accommodation and local travel: There are ample numbers of government approved accommodation available in Udaipur. These two cities are well connected via air and rail ways.

Related links:
• Udaipur tourist information: http://www.udaipurtourism.com/
• Udaipur city information: http://www.udaipur.org.uk/

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.

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