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Indian Enchanted Circuits
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Lose yourself in the wonders, that is India. Meander through lands
steeped in chivalry and pageantry that being before recorded history.
Explore modern cities that have grown, organically from the roots
of multi-hued past. Abandon yourself to culture, art and aesthetics
in a bewildering variety of moods, forms and manifestations.
Make a pilgrimage to holy shrines that echo with tales of antiquity.
Frolic at a vast array of golden beaches that dot an enviable coastline,
washed by tow seas and an ocean. Sport with adventure in style, whether
on land, sea or air. Let the jungle lure you to a fascinating world
at a diverse array of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks....
Indian travel agents offers indian destinations tour packages, neatly
packed for you. Tours plan, you should logged on itineraries page.
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| The Golden Triangle: DELHI
- AGRA - JAIPUR |
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 This
triangle of three cities, perfectly captures the pageantry of India.
A gorgeous panorama of majestic architectural creation and a rich
tradition of wonderful breathtaking art and culture.
Here you can see some of the images that epitomize India. The marble
symphony of Shahjahan's Taj Mahal, the imperial elegance of Lutyens'
New Delhi, the splendor of the desert city of Jaipur. Every city
offers its unique blend of sights, sounds and experiences. From
the opulence of modern India. We would recommend that you start
your tour at Delhi, which is connected to most cities in the world. |
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| Delhi: A Capital
Way To Begin Your Discovery Of Ind |
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Delhi
- a canvas that reflects the complexities, contradictions,
beauty and dynamism of a city where the past co-exit with the present.
Many dynasties ruled from here and the city is rich in architecture
of its monuments. It can be a case of mistaken identity if you go by your first impressions of the capital city of India Delhi. Behind all the frantic and frenzy of a modern city there lies a serene peace which is an integral part of Delhi. A city of dynamic contrasts and colors, Delhi is deep with history and rich with culture. As corollary to all these, tourism in Delhi is fast increasing.
A travel to Delhi will cast an irresistible spell of charm to the tourist. Both 'Old' and New Delhi exert a beguiling charm on visitors. Explore Old City and get immersed in the Mughal past. Stroll down the labyrinthine streets of Old Delhi before coming out in the lush boulevards of imperial New Delhi, with its planned governmental offices and tree-lined avenues.
Apart from being the capital of India, Delhi is also the travel point for visitors from overseas. It's an excellent base for visiting Agra and the Taj Mahal, and the chivalrous land of Rajasthan. If you're planning to immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenic beauty or adventure activities in the lap of the Himalayas or east to the ghats of Varanasi, Delhi is the most appropriate base.
Bounded by the state of Uttar Pradesh and on three sides by the state of Haryana, Delhi is located at the western end of the Gangetic Plain. A great tourism destination, a travel to Delhi will give you two cities for the price of one. 'Old' Delhi, the capital of the Mughal India between the mid-17th and late 19th centuries, is full of forts, great mosques and monuments. It's a lively area of narrow streets and colorful bazaars. In contrast, New Delhi, the imperial city of the British India, is replete with generous leafy avenues and impressive government vistas, and has a sense of order absent from other parts of the city.
Though extensive in area, the city is easy to navigate. The commercial hub of Delhi is Connaught Place, where you'll find most of the offices of travel agents, tours operators, banks and airlines. 'Old' Delhi is two kilometers north of Connaught Place, and its main thoroughfare is Chandni Chowk. Paharganj, near New Delhi Railway Station (budget), and Janpath, on the southern side of Connaught Place (budget and mid-range). Are the two main centers for accommodation. There are a number of art galleries, cinemas, theatres and performing arts center around Connaught Place. Though nightlife is strictly curtailed in Delhi, now-a-days process is on to make licensing laws more flexible.
Places Of Interest
: Qutab Minar, Purana Qila, Humayun's Tomb, Jama Masjid,
Red Fort, India Gate, Jantar Mantar, Parliament House, Lakshmi Narayan
Temple, Raj Ghat, Teen Murti House and Lotus Temple.
Reach :
By Air - connections to all major world cities and important Indian
cities.
By Rail - linked with most Indian destinations.
By Road - Agra 200 kms, Jaipur 250 kms and links to neighbouring
states.
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| Agra:: The Land Of World's
Wonder - Taj Mahal |
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In Agra layers of history are peeled away to reveal an amazing tapestry of life - of wars waged, of great architectural magnificence and above all a testimony of the undying love of a king for his queen.
That Agra is unparalleled as a travel destination is an established fact. Even Bill Clinton testified to as much when he declared the world was divided into two: those who have seen the Taj and those who have not! Besides the Taj Mahal though, there are a lot of other important sights in and around Agra. The Agra Fort, Moti Masjid and innumerable other attractions make the city feature on every travellers must-do-sightseeing list.
Travel a little outside Agra and you'll come to Fatehpur Sikri, a site for monuments that are historically as important as the Taj Mahal. Every tour guide who does Agra ensures that Fatehpur Sikri is also visited. There development in architectural style from Akbar's Sikri to Shah Jahan's Agra is important, and only if you see the monuments at both will you have begun to explore Mughal architecture. Fatehpur Sikri's sights include monuments from the times of Akbar: the Buland Darwaza and the Dargah of Salim Chishti.
The first time you travel to Agra, the city can be a bit overwhelming with its noise and big crowds. There are government run and private tourist information centres galore and you should take advantage of them. Most of them offer tour guide services, which is useful if you're stuck in a chaotic Indian city, particularly if you're low on knowledge about its premier attraction. There are also nearly as many touts as tourists! Beware of them and stay with registered guides. However, no matter how many times you've done Agra and the Taj Mahal, their attraction never fades. If you're an old Agra hand of course, you'll be quite at home in this crazy bustling
town.
Places Of Interest : Taj Mahal, Agra
Fort, Itmad- Ud-Daulah's Tomb, Chini-Ka-Rauza, Ram Bagh, Sikandra,
Fatehpur Sikri. Reach :
By Air - flights are operational during the winter season.
By Rail - well connected to Delhi, Jaipur and other major towns.
By Road -Agra is connected to Delhi- 204 kms, Jaipur- 237 kms, Khajuraho- 395 kms, Mathura- 54 kms, Gwalior- 110 kms, Lucknow- 257 kms, Bharatpur- 54 kms.
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| Jaipur: The City Of Lobe
Legends And Lore |
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Popularly known as the Pink City , Jaipur, the capital city of the Indian State of Rajasthan, is nestled amidst the Aravallis Mountains . Founded in the 17th century, the city is home to magnificent architecture and careful town planning, colourful bazaars and friendly people. Renowned as one of the most picturesque cities in the world, Jaipur offers a wealth of attractions for the tourists.
Famous for its colourful culture, forts, palaces, and lakes… the city basks in the glory of a rich and eventful past. Jaipur is a planned city which is made all the more attractive by the pink wash that most buildings are periodically given. Besides, it remains the only city in the world that symbolises the nine divisions of the universe, through nine rectangular sectors. It is for these reasons that Jaipur has been included on the popular tourist ‘Golden Triangle' of Delhi-Jaipur-Agra.
Jaipur was founded by Maharaja Jai Singh II, almost 300 years ago, during the decline of the Mughal Empire. The city was designed by a Bengali architect, Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, using the town planning principles of Shilpa Shastra (a primeval Hindu architectural dissertation). During the rule of Maharaja Man Singh II, the entire city was painted in pink, thereby earning it the name ' Pink City '. Even today, the people living within city limits are bound by law to paint their houses in pink.
Surrounded by serrated hills and featuring magnificent fortresses, elegant buildings and temples, Jaipur is a city, well-worth the visit. Apart from its architectural splendour, the city is also popular for arts and crafts and semi-precious stones. The city of Jaipur is famous for handcrafted gemstone studded silver jewellery and for its lacquer bangles. From chunky tribal jewellery to exclusive and delicate jewellery studded with precious stones, the range available is astounding. Meenakari, the art of enamelling gold or silver, is done in Jaipur. Kundan Jewellery is exclusive both in terms of design and workmanship. ‘Thewa' work in gold on a green or red enamel base is exquisite. Places Of Interest : City Palace,
Amber Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Sisodia Garden, Hawa Mahal,
Jantar Mantar, Central Museum, Maharaja Sawai Man Singh Museum.
Reach : By Air - connected by air
from Delhi, Bombay, Jodhpur. Udaipur. Aurangabad and Bombay By Rail
- services from Delhi, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Ahmedabad.
By Road - linked with Bombay, Delhi and major towns. |
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| The Heart Of Heritage:
GWALIOR–SHIVPURI-ORCHHA-KHAJURAHO-KONARK |
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 Discover
the heart of India as you travel through Madhya Pradesh. A landscape
of abundant forests, soaring hills and silver rivers, that was once
Kipling's India. Here, experience the timeless spirit of ancient
India. Where empires rose and fell, leaving behind in forbidding
fortresses and ornate palaces, the memory of their past glory.
The pilgrim's route meanders through temples where stone carvings
capture every facet of life. And the faithful worship at Buddhist Stupas.
Begin your journey at the ancient city of Gwalior. Take a break
at Shivpuri, a national park. At Orchha, the temples and palaces
of the Bundela rulers line the banks of a river. And the highpoint
of your trip will be the final destination – the incomparable temples
of Khajuraho. |
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| Gwalior: Of Warrior
Kings And A Poet's Song |
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The ancient
capital of the Rajput clans, presents many magnificent monuments celebrating their rule.
It is a city that remembers not only its kings but also its poets,
singers and saints with pride. And preserves with care every monument
of its historical and cultural heritage. Gwalior, steeped in the splendour of its past, the ancient capital of Gwalior has yet made a successful transition into a modern Indian city, vibrant and bustling. A multitude of reigning dynasties, of the great Rajput clans of the Pratiharas, Kacchwahas and Tomars have left indelible etchings of their rule in this city of palaces, temples and monuments. Gwalior's tradition as a royal capital continued until the formation of present day India, with the Scindias having their dynastic seat here. The magnificent mementoes of a glorious past have been preserved with care, giving Gwalior an appeal unique and timeless.
Places Of Interest : Gwalior Fort,
Man Mandir Palace, Gujari Mahal , Sas Bahu Ka Mandir, Teli Ka Mandir,
Jai Bilas Palace, Museum, Tansen's Tomb.
Reach : By Air - connections to Delhi,
Bhopal, Indore and Bombay.
By Rail - well connected with major towns.
By Road - Delhi 317 kms and Agra 118 km
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| Shivpuri: A Summer Resort
Of Kings |
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Shivpuri is steeped in the royal legacy of its past, when it was the summer capital of the Scindia rulers of Gwalior. And earlier, its dense forests were the hunting grounds of the Mughal emperors when Emperor Akbar captured great herds of elephants. Much later, it was the tiger that roamed the wooded hills and many a magnificent beast was ' bagged' by royal shikaris. And, with its luxuriant forests and undulating hills, Shivpuri was a natural choice as the summer resort capital of the Scindias. Shivpuri's royal ambience lives on in the exquisite palaces and hunting lodges and graceful, intricately embellished marble chhatris (cenotaphs) erected by the Scindia princes. A sanctuary for rare wildlife and avifauna, Shivpuri has transformed a royal past into a vibrant, hopeful present.
Places Of Interest : Gwalior Fort,
Man Mandir Palace, Gujari Mahal , Sas Bahu Ka Mandir, Teli Ka Mandir,
Jai Bilas Palace, Museum, Tansen's Tomb.
Reach : By Air - nearest airport
is Gwalior.
By Rail - nearest railhead is Gwalior.
By Road - Gwalior 112 kms.
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| Orchha: With A Medieval
Majesty |
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Orchha was the
capital of the Bundela Rajputs between 1531 and 1783. Built by an
11th century king of the Bundela dynasty. The medieval city of Orchha, in the state of Madhya Pradesh, seems to have frozen in time, its palaces and temples still retaining their original grandeur. Orchha had the distribution of being the capital of one of the largest and most powerful kingdoms of Central India. The Bundela Rajput chieftain, Rudra Pratap, founded the city, located by the side of the beautiful Betwa River, in the 16th century. The word Orchha means 'hidden'. When the Tughlaqs, who were ruling Delhi in the 15th century, pushed the Bundelkhand rajas out of Garkhundar, they retreated to distant Orcha.
Place Of Interest: Jehangir Mahal, Raj Mahal, Ramraja Temple, Chaturbhuj
Temples, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Rai Praveen Mahal.
Reach : By Air - nearest airport
is Gwalior.
By Rail - Nearest railhead is Jhansi.
By Road - Gwalior 120 kms. Jhansi 19 kms. Orchha lies on the Jhansi-Khajuraho
road.
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| Khajuraho: Celebration
Of Life And Worship |
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The legendary
temples of Khajuraho are an incomparable experience. The fascinating temples of Khajuraho, India's unique gift of love to the world, in the state of Madhya Pradesh, were built between 950 and 1050
A.D. It derives its name from the Khajur tree (the date palm tree) which can be found in abundance in the area. The divine sculptures in these temples are a tribute to Life itself, embodying everything that is sublime and spontaneous about it. With the wane of the Chandela Empire, these magnificent temples lay neglected, and vulnerable to the ravages of Nature. It was only in this century, that they were rediscovered, restored and granted the recognition that they justly
deserve. Originally there were 85 temples, of which only 22 still exist. These magnificent temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and the Jain Tirthankaras. The three main compartments are the entrance (ardhamandapa), assembly hall (mandapa), and the actual sanctum (garbha griha). The temples are grouped into three geographical divisions: western, eastern and southern. Places Of Interest: Kandariya Mahadeo,
Chaunsat Yogini, Chitragupta Temple, Parsvanath Temple Vishwanath
Temple, Lakshmana Temple.
Reach : By Air - links to Delhi,
Agra and Varanasi.
By Rail - connected with Harpalpur, Mahoba, Jhansi.
By Road - Jhansi 175 kms, Gwalior 280 kms.
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| Konark: Worshipping The
Sun God |
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Legends say
that Samba the son of Lord Krishna was afflicted by leprosy of a
curse by his father. After a penance of 12 years, Samba was cured
by Surya, the Sun God in whose honour he built this temple. Konark is renown for Sun Temple probably remains as the last remnant of the glorious temples of Orissa an extant example of the architectural excellence of the times. Built in the 13th Century, here a colossal image of the chariot of the Sun, drawn by seven horses and 24 wheels symbolizes the divisions of time. The Konark Sun Temple also houses a Natamandira or dancing hall. Only two subsidiary temples out of the 22 exist today. The Vaishnadevi Mayadevi Temple stand to the West it. The Sun temple of Narasimhadeva is a depiction in stone of the life of those times – royal, social, religious and military. The intricate carvings on the walls and wheels of the chariot are unprecedented in history.
The fine sculptures depicting court life, hunting, scenes and celestial deities are epitomes of precision and grace. Graceful sculptures from the world of the Kamasutra, epic of eroticism also adorn the structures. The Sun Temple standing in solitary splendor is the relic of a great past. Places Of Interest :
Sun Temple: Kuruma – Chaurasi – Ramachandi – Astranga.
Reach : By Air - Nearest airport
is Bhubaneswar.
By Rail - Nearest railhead is Puri.
By Road - Puri 31kms, Bhubaneswar 65 kms. |
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| The Beaches Of India:
GOA - DIU - KOVALAM - MAMALLAPURAM |
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 A
sunrise over the horizon turning the sea into molten gold. The crashing
surf streaming up the sand and then receding again, leaving behind
sea shells and driftwood. The swaying fringed shadow of the palms.
On the eastern and western coasts of Kerala, endless beaches offer
you a balmy holiday. The Konkan coast in the west has the beaches
of Goa and Diu. Go southwards to the white sands of Kovalam on the
Malabar coast. On the Coromandel coast in the east are the rock
– cut temples by the sea at Mamallapuram. These breathtaking beaches
promise the perfect escape to tranquility. |
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| Goa: A Beachside Carnival |
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Unforgettable
Goa, a heady blend of serenity and excitement down a 100 km coastline,
studded with some of the world's most beautiful beaches- Calangute,
Colva, Baga, Dona Paula, Bogmalo. Goa, a Portuguese explorer, Afonso de Albuquerque sailed up the river Mandovi, defeated the Bijapuri army and rode into the capital triumphantly bearing a Portuguese Standard in one hand, and a Gold Crucifix in the other. A curious blending of cultures took place, affecting every sphere of Goa life, from religion to architecture, cuisine to art. The chapter of Goa's history ended 451 years later when Goa ceased to be a Portuguese colony, and became a part of the Indian Union. Parasailing, yachting, windsurfing, and deep sea diving are some of the more popular water sports, facilities for which are available. 451 years of Portuguese rule has imbued Goa’s towns and villages with a unique culture. Whitewashed chapels and churches that dot the landscape are surrounded by sleepy villages and rice fields.
Places Of Interest : Panaji, Mandovi
River, Old Goa for churches - Basilica of Born Jesus, St.Cathedral
and St. Francis of Assissi , Aguada Fort.
Reach : By Air - links to Bangalore,
Bombay, Delhi, Cochin.
By Rail - nearest railhead is Vasco da Gama, 35 kms from Panaji.
By Road - links to Aurangabad 699 kms, Bangalore 592 kms, Bombay
597 kms, Pune 473 kms.
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| Diu: An Island Fantasy |
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A Portuguese colony like Goa, Diu is an off - shore island on the western coast, off the Gulf of Cambay. The coast has limestone cliffs, rocky coves and sandy beaches, the best of which are at Nagoa. A massive fort built by the Portuguese dominates the skyline.
An island of breeze and beauty. The island of Diu, an erstwhile Portuguese colony, is situated off the Saurashtra coast of Gujarat bordering Junagadh district. It is an exquisitely beautiful getaway with golden sand beaches, dense palm-groves and historical monuments sans commercial exploitation and environmental degradation. Diu stands out, in marked contrast to other places, as a tiny island, where people have an excellent civic sense. With the magnificent serenity of its ambience, it is perhaps one of India’s last undiscovered jewels.
With a pleasant climate throughout the year, it affords unprecedented peace and
tranquility to tourists. The beautiful tiny island, is lying on the west coast of India, with a coastal length of 21 kms., is at a distance of about 930 kms. from Bombay. The word 'Diu' is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Dweep'. During the period from the 14th to 16th century Diu was one of the best Sea Ports and a Naval base. Merchants of various lands carried on trade here.
Nagoa beach which is horse-shoe in shape, could well be one of the best beaches of the world. The other equally beautiful beaches are Ahmedpur,
Mandvi, Chakratirath, Jallandhar, and Gomtimata all having their own charm and thrill. The administration has provided water-sports facilities. Diu can boast of several historical monuments which are imposing in architecture and design, like the Diu Fort built in 1535, St. Paul’s Church built in 1610 and St, Thomas Church converted into a museum. The Church and the Museum have been floodlit by the administration and gardens, parks and fountains have been created around the monuments to beautify them. Diu is all about lazy days and hazy nights.
Places Of Interest: Diu Fort, Forte do Mar, Gupta Prayag at Delwada , Gangeshwar Temple , Nagao Beach , Shaking Tower at Delwada.
Excursions: Girnar Hill, Junagadh-185 kms, Palitana-195 kms, Somnath Temple- 72 kms, Sasangir-128 kms, Tulsi Shyam- 45 kms, , Chorwad- 97 kms, Ahmedpur Mandvi-130 kms.
Reach :By Air - Diu is connected by
air with Bombay and Ahmedabad.
By Rail - Nearest railhead is Delwada (9 km) connected via Veraval by
meter gauge line. However Veraval (85 km) is the convenient railhead connected to Bombay via Ahmedabad.
By Road - Diu is well connected by road via Una (30 km), to Ahmedabad (495 km), Bhavnagar (225 km), Bombay (930 km), Daman (763 km), Sasangir (128 km), Rajkot (261 km), Somnath (87 km), Veraval (77 km).
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| Kovalam: Golden Sands
By The Arabian Sea |
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The sheltered
coves and white sands of Kovalam are among the best beaches in India.
Palm fringed bays in secluded coconut groves, promise a relaxed
stay. The city is known as the most beautiful beaches in the world. Kovalam is located at the Malabar Coast along the Kerala shoreline is a small village; called Kovalam is 16 kms away from Trivandrum, a sheltered bay endowed with unusual beauty. This natural bay is a safe sea-pool free from high waves and surge. The beach resort here is of international standard. Today Kovalam has become one of the most popular beach hangouts in India. Kovalam means a grove of coconut trees and truly the coconut trees along the beaches gives it a paradise of nature.
Places Of Interest : Beside the vision
of beaches, one can visit Kanyakumari - famous for brilliant sunset
and sunrise and Trivandrum city.
Reach : By Air - nearest airport
is Trivandrum.
By Rail - nearest railhead is Trivandrum
By Road - Trivandrum 16 kms.
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| Mamallapuram: A Temple
Town By The Sea |
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South of Madras,
Mamallapuram was once a port city of the Pallava rulers. The temples
and rock cut sculptures of that period create a unique blend of
history and natural beauty. Mahabalipuram with its picturesque location on a rocky outcrop between the beach and a lagoon is a happy combination of history, good beaches, hassle-free tourism and fabulous fish and lobster! Despite the many visitors, drawn by the former Pallava dynasty town, the place is friendly, relaxed, and the villagers are remarkably unperturbed by their crowds of visitors. Mahabalipuram is renowned for its series of charming rathas and the spectacular carved relief depicting Arjuna's Penance. The magnificent Shore Temple, built by king Rajasimha in the seventh century, is a unique temple that houses the shrines of both Shiva and Vishnu while the Varaha Cave is one of the many rock-cut caves in Mahabalipuram. The Krishna Mandapam has a bas-relief of Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan hill in his fingertips. Places Of Interest : Rock
Cut Caves, Arjuna's Penance, The Rathas, Shore Temple.
Reach : By Air - nearest airport,
Madras 49km.
By Rail - rail links to Madras. Kanchipuram and Arkonam.
By Road - links to Madras, Pondicherry and Bangalore.
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| The Back Waters of Kerala:
ALLEPPEY-COCHIN-KUMARAKOM--QUILON |
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 Kerala
is said to have sprung from the ocean. All along its coast, these
exotic backwaters, canals, lagoons and inlets create an intricate
maze that stretches for 1900km across the land. Begin your journey
at Allapuzha floating slowly past coconut palms dipping down towards
the water and serene villages, as the moving landscape creates a
living portrait of Kerala's rural life. Other country crafts will
go by some carrying a load of fresh bananas or coir, others filled
with people traveling to nearby villages.
Another exciting snake boat Race is held during the Great Elephant
March in January. The luxurious way to enjoy the backwaters of Kerala
is on one of the luxury cruises. Elegantly furnished and completely
equipped to handle anything from a conference to a holiday cruise.
If you are looking for a relaxing idyllic holiday in a picturesque
setting the palm trees and sun dipped waterways of Kerala waits
for you. |
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| Alleppy: The Boundless
Beauty Of Back Waters |
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Alleppey known
as Allapuzha is the most important city of the state, has earned
for the place its sobriquet " The Venice Of The East". The large
network of the canals provides Alleppey its life line. It has a
long sand beach, which is very spectacular. This busy city, a center
for coir and carpet industries. It is an ideal headquarter for backwaters
touring. Alleppey is also known for its spectacular Snake Boat races
held on the second Saturday of August every year. Places Of Interest : Backwaters Tour,
Krishnapuram Palace, Ambalappuzha, Sri Nagaraja Temple 32 kms. enroute
to Quilon.
Reach : By Air - Nearest airport
is Cochin 70 kms.
By Rail - well connected with major towns.
By Road - one and half hour drive from Cochin By Ferry - connected
with Kumarakom, Kottayam, Quilon, and Cochin.
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| Cochin: The Queen of
Arabian Sea |
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Come to Cochin.
Queen of the Arabian sea. Believed to be the finest natural harbour
in the world. With ferry rides commanding its breathtaking view.
As you cruise around man-made islands with lush green lawns sloping
down to the water's edge. Giant Chinese fishing nets that billow
from massive teak and bamboo poles dot the entrance to the harbour.
Silhouetted against the setting sun, they present a magnificent
sight of the water front. Cochin is the oldest European settlement
in India. Places Of Interest : Mantacherry
Palace, Synagogue, Museum, Vypeen and Gundu islands, Chinese Fishing
Nets and Kath Kali Centers.
Reach : By Air - linked with direct
air services from Delhi, Bombay, Madras, Goa, Trivandrum, Hyderabad
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By Rail - Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam town stations are connected
by all major cities.
By Road - well connected with all major destination of India.
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| Kumarakom: The Birds
Retreat |
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One of the shores
of enchanting Vembanad lake 16 kms from Kottayam, an ideal place
for backwaters cruises. There is 14 acre Bird Sanctuary situated
on eastern banks of Vembanad Lake. Bound by Vembanad Lake on two
sides, the swaying paddy fields, on one side and a Bird Sanctuary
on the other. You could sail the backwaters in houseboats, which
are poled by local oarsmen and are simply furnished with living
room a bedroom and bath, together with raised central platform creating
private sit-out for you. A unique experience of stay and joy. Places Of Interest : Kumarakom Bird
Sanctuary and backwaters tour.
Reach : By Air - nearest airport
is Cochin 76 kms.
By Rail - nearest Railhead is Kottayam 16 kms.
By Road - well connected with major destinations of Southern India.
By Ferry - one & half hour journey by speedboat.
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| Quilon: The Picturesque
City Of Ports |
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The picturesque
city of ports is on the banks beautiful Ashtamudi lake. Quilon is
an inviting gate way to backwaters. Traces of once prosperous trade
with China are still seen in form of Chinese fishing nets, water
pots, blue & white porcelain and sampan-like boats. For the
most intense backwater experience, take a house boat tour to Alleppey
- a rigorous ride lasting more than 8 hours. As the boat putters
from one village on the water front to another you are treated to
a full range of lives and activities.
Places Of Interest : Backwater village
tours, Thirumullavaram, Palaruvi Water Falls, Shasthancottah Lake:
the largest fresh water lake in Kerala (29 kms).
Reach : By Air - nearest airport
is Trivandrum 71 kms.
By Rail - nearest railhead is Trivandrum.
By Road - Trivandrum 71 kms, well connected with other major town
of Southern India.
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The Lure of Jungle: CORBETT-
KANHA- BANDHAVGARH- SARISKA- RANTHAMBHOR - KEOLADEO- PERIYAR- BANDIPUR-
GIR- MANAS |
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 The
total area of India's protected wilderness is approximately 140,000sq
km and constitutes 4 percent of the country's total land area. The
emphasis has not only been on protecting wildlife in reserved forests,
but in areas where man and animal continue to live in harmony.
The country's protected wilderness consists of 75 National Parks
and 421 Sanctuaries, of which 19 fall under the purview of Project
Tiger. Its climatic and geographic diversity makes it the home of
over 350 mammals and 1,200 bird species, many of which are unique
to the subcontinent. The land of the tiger and the elephant, the
peacock and the rhinoceros, India's wildlife is a delight for the
nature lover. The wildlife parks and sanctuaries spread across the
country offer a fascinating diversity of terrain, flora and fauna.
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| Corbett: The Wild Land
Of Himalayas |
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Located in the
Patlidun Valley at the base of the Himalayas in Uttar Pradesh, Corbett
was established in 1936 in area of 520 sq. kms. , as the Hailey
National Park. India's first national park and the first sanctuary
to come under project Tiger, Corbett supports a variety of vegetation
making it the ideal habitat for the tiger and its prey. The prominent
fauna: Tiger, leopard, elephant, sloth bear, jungle cat, fishing
cat, dhole, yellow-throated marten, Himalayan palm civet.
Reach : By Air - nearest airport
is Delhi. .
By Rail - nearest railhead is Ramnagar
By Road - Ramnagar 50 kms. Delhi 290 kms. |
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| Kanha: The Density Of
Fauna |
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No other wildlife
reserve in India offers the density of fauna, found at Kanha in
the state of Madhya Pradesh. Often called Tiger Land. Kanha is located
in a horse – shoe shaped valley bound by two distinct spurs, and
supports 22 species of mammals in the central parkland and the adjoining
plateaus. Over the years, animals at Kanha have become bolder and
more confident, making the park excellent for wildlife viewing and
photography of tiger, leopard, barasingha, gaur, sambhar, chausingha,
nilgai, barking deer, black buck, red jungle fowl.
Reach : By Air - nearest airport
is Nagpur.
By Rail - nearest railhead is Jabalpur 160 kms.
By Road - Mandla 65 kms. Nagpur 266 kms.
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| Bandhavgarh: Recalling
The Past |
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Located in the
Vindhya Hills, Bandhavgarh encompasses hills covered with a mixed
forest of sal, dhobin and saga and large stretches of grassland
with bamboo groves. Dominated by a large fort said to have been
built by Lord Rama, the hero of the Indian epic Ramayana, Bandhavgarh
is famous for its tigers. jungle cat, hyena.
Reach : By Air - nearest airport
is Khajuraho.
By Rail - Nearest railhead is Umaria.
By Road - Umaria 35 kms. Khajuraho 210 kms.
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| Sariska: The Home Of
Tigers |
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The landscape
of Sariska is dominated by sharp cliffs of hills and narrow valleys
of the Aravali. The forests are dry deciduous. Within the sanctuary
there are the ruins of medieval buildings. The ruins of temples
of Garh- Rajor of the 10th centuries are scattered in the jungle.
A 17th century castle on a sharp hilltop at Kankwari, provides a
panoramic view of flying Egyptian vultures and eagles.
Reach : By Air - Nearest airport
is Jaipur.
By Rail - Nearest railhead is Alwar.
By Road - Alwar 37 kms, Delhi 200 kms and Jaipur 107 kms. |
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| Ranthambhor: Gateway
To The Tigers' Den |
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Experience of
royal past and encounter with majestic tiger. The great Ranthambhor
Fort perched atop a creek 200 mts. high. Ranthambhor is said to
have India's friendliest tigers. Assured of protection, they have
changed their nocturnal habits and are seen quite frequently during
the day. Sprawled over the Aravali and Vindhya mountain ranges.
A system of three artificial lakes enhances beauty of the park.
Reach : By Air - Nearest airport
is Jaipur 132 kms.
By Rail - Nearest railhead is Sawai Madhopur.
By Road - Nearest town is Sawai Madhopur 14 kms. |
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| Keoladeo: Exotic Migratory
Birds Sanctuary |
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The first wildlife
park on the Golden Triangle of tourism is Keoladeo, 55km from the
Agra. The rich aquatic plant and animal life in the shallow, fresh-water
marsh of Bharatpur has been attracting resident and migratory aquatic
birds in thousands since times immemorial. It has a recorded history
of 100 years of duck shoots. There are over 353 species, belonging
to 56 families. The Siberian Cranes visit no other waters in India,
except the marshes of Keoladeo. For the number and variety of birds
to be seen, Keoladeo is matchless.
Reach : By Air - nearest airports
are Agra & Jaipur.
By Rail - nearest railhead is Bharatpur 3 kms.
By Road - Agra 55kms, Delhi 212 kms. |
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| Periyar: Most Picturesque
Reserve |
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Periyar is one
of India's most picturesque reserves. A dam constructed on the periyar
river led to the submersion of a large forest area and the formation
of a 55 sq. kms lake, which assured the local wildlife a perennial
source of water and led to its rapid growth. The home of elephant,
tiger, mouse deer, wild dog porcupine, lion tailed macaque, flying
squirrel.
Reach : By Air - nearest airport
is Kochi
By Rail - nearest railhead is Kottayam 114 kms.
By Road - Kumily 4 kms. Kochi 200 kms. |
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| Bandipur: Evergreen Open
Forest |
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Part of the
lushly-forested Deccan Plateau, Bandipur in Karnataka, offers a
rich and varied wildlife habitat. Covered with a mix of deciduous
forests, evergreen forests and scrub well irrigated by the Moyar
river, the prominent fauna: Asian elephant, wild pig, four-horned
antelope, black-napped hare. Bandipur has a fairly open forest floor,
making it easy for visitors to spot wildlife.
Reach : By Air - Nearest airport
is Bangalore.
By Rail - Nearest railhead is Nanjangud .
By Road - Bangalore 60 kms, Gundulpet 20 kms, Nanjangud 55 kms.
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| Gir: The Wild Palace
Of The King |
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The last surviving
population of the Asiatic lion can be seen at the Gir National park.
Located in the Saurashtra peninsula in Gujarat .Gir is composed
of terrain with steep rocky hills, deep ravines and occasional stretches
of grasslands. Irrigated by many rivers, the park supports a mixed
semi-arid deciduous forest.
Reach : By Air - nearest airport
is Keshod.
By Rail - nearest railhead is Sasan.
By Road - Veraval 42 kms, Keshod 80 kms. |
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| Manas: Blend Of Flora
And Fauna |
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The Manas river
divides the lush mixed deciduous forests that run through India
to Bhutan. On both sides, the habitat is zealously protected as
it houses no less than 20 species of birds and animals that are
highly endangered and listed in the IUCN Red Data Book 'Manas' is
also the primary habitat of the rare golden langur, wild buffalo,
hispid hare, pigmy hog, capped langur, India one-horned rhinoceros,
water buffalo, elephant, tiger and hog deer.
Reach : By Air - nearest
airport is Guwahati.
By Rail - nearest railhead is Barpeta Road.
By Road- nearest town is Barpeta Road 41 kms, Guwahati
186 kms. |
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| The North East: GANGTOK
- DARJEELING - LACHUNG |
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 A
misty dawn on the mountains. A bronze sunset across the expanse
of the Brahmaputra. The clang of prayer bells at a monastery. Life
moves at a serene pace in the North East. The North East is composed
of seven states whose natural beauty has earned them the sobriquet
of 'seven sisters'. Assam, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh Manipur,
Tripura, Mizoram and Meghalaya have been generously blessed by nature.
Verdant valleys, emerald tea gardens, lush forests and tumultuous
rivers blend to create magnificent landscapes. You begin your travels
at the picturesque city of Gangtok, capital of Sikkim, where orchids
bloom on the hillside. Then journey to Darjeeling, Pelling &
Lachung - the incomparable jewels of the North East. With salubrious
climate, fascinating customs, of its gentle people. |
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| Gangtok: Splendours Of
Nature |
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Gangtok, the
'Lofty Hill' or the 'hill made flat' to build Gangtok Monastery
in 1716. Cradled in the manifold splendors of nature, deep within
the snow clad Himalayas is Sikkim's capital - Gangtok. Overlooking
the city is the hill Lukshyma, ' the mother of pearl ' citadel of
magic mountain, Khang-chen-dzodnga. Gangtok offers a hospitable
base to explore the varied wonders of this highland its picturesque
valleys, monasteries, mountain, lakes and trekking trails. Places Of Interest : Chorten, Deer
Park, Enchey Ancient Monastery, Government Cottage Industries Institute,
Orchid Sanctuary, Research Institute Of Tibetlogy, Tashi View Point,
Tsuklakhang.
Reach : By Air - nearest air port
is Bagdogra.
By Rail - nearest railhead is New Jalpaiguri 126 kms and Siliguri
111 kms.
By Road - Bagdogra 124 kms, New Jalpaiguri 126 kms. Siliguri 111
kms, Kalimpong 72 kms, Darjeeling 110 kms.
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| Darjeeling: Simply Out
Of This World |
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Popularly know
as the 'Queen of Hill Stations' Darjeeling is at the height of 2134
meters, offering magnificent view of Himalayan panorama including
the Kanchenjunga peak. Tiger hill top, offering a breathtaking view
of sunrise over Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga. Darjeeling Rangeet
Valley Ropeway, a 2 kms-long journey between Darjeeling and Takvar,
with fantastic overview of hills, undulating valleys and tea gardens. Places Of Interest : Lloyd Botanical
Gardens, Natural History Museum, Dhirdham Temple, Himalayan Mountaineering
Institute, Buddhist monastery.
Reach : By Air - nearest airport
is Bagdogra connects Calcutta, Delhi, Guwahati.
By Rail - Nearest railhead is New Jalpaiguri, Toy train runs between
New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling.
By Road - Bagdogra 90 kms, New Jalpaiguri 90 kms, Gangtok 110 kms.
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| Lachung: An Imaginary
Paradise On Earth |
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One of the most
exquisite valleys in Sikkim, Lachung is resplendent with snow-capped
mountains, breathtaking waterfall and all that nature can offer.
Its on the North of Sikkim highway - a highway which can boast of
being one with the most beautiful surrounding. Lachung is situated
at height of 8610 ft. Blessed by the goddess of nature. The most
picturesque village of Sikkim, where the time stands still. Take
one and half hour drive to Yumthang situated at a height of 11,800
ft, gets covered with rhododendron flowers with riot of colours
bursting on each other. Places Of Interest : Yumthang flower
valley, mountain trekking and village tour.
Reach : By Air - Nearest airport
is Bagdogra.
By Rail - Nearest railhead is New Jalpaiguri 250 Kms.
By Road - Gangtok 124 Kms, Bagdogra 250 Kms.
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