Tourism at Porbandar

A visit to Tourism of Gujarat along with a guided tour across the city of Porbandar, situated in Gujarat, India, would take an interested tourist across the delights and historic masterpieces of Porbandar, located in Gujarat, India. Tourism of Gujarat, offers to a tourist information that Porbandar, situated in Gujarat, India, was home to the Jetwa Rajputs, who ruled the majority of the region in the Kathiawar Peninsula for a period of 2000 years. Along with this, Porbandar, in a more recent past happens to be the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhiji, in the year 1869 A.D. Porbandar, situated in Gujarat, India, is home to the names of Indian founding fathers like Swami Vivekanand and Rabindranath Tagore, to site a few of the names.

Tourism of Gujarat, offers to the tourist, access to the delights of Porbandar, located in Gujarat, India. Porbandar, situated in Gujarat, India, is also home to travel destinations like Huzoor Palace, which resemblances a European villa or a mansion and the various structures of the building are built in a zig-zagged formation which leads to places being made open for gardens and fountains, courtyards and forecourts, too. Mahatma Gandhi's family haveli is three storied with a photographic display of Mahatma Gandhi's life and times and the role he played in the Indian freedom struggle.

Tourism at Rajkot

Rajkot is located on the banks of the Aji river in the west Indian state of Gujarat. Founded by Vibhoji AjojiJadeja in 1612, it was once the capital of the princely state of Saurashtra and the seat of the erstwhile Jadeja clan. The city has a rich cultural history and is also associated with India's freedom struggle. It is the place where Mahatma Gandhi spent the early years of his life. The city was a former British government headquarters and still has a number of massive structures and educational institutions which remind one of the city's colonial past. It is famous for silver,and furniture, Bandhani sarees, bead work,patch work, silk embroidery, jewellery and a National weaving institute which promotes traditional weaves. The city is also a religious centre and is a must visit for those interested in colonial history and architecture.

Nehru Gate

Tourism at Purna Wild Life Sanctuary

he Purna Wildlife Sanctuary in Dangs is scattered over a sprawling plot measuring approximately 160.8 square kilometers and positioned at the southern fringe of the state of Gujarat.

Being regarded as a flank belonging to the Western Ghats, Purna Wildlife Sanctuary in Dangs is jam-packed with damp deciduous trees and thick bamboo brakes which provides an apt ambiance for an entire caboodle of fauna to flourish.

The Purna Wildlife Sanctuary in Dangs gained the recognition of being considered as a sanctuary in the year 1990.

The Purna Wildlife Sanctuary in Dangs houses a wide variety of fauna, as many as 170 species that attracts the attention of a major bulk of botanists from all over the country. The diverse gamut of fauna that is proudly displayed at the Purna Wildlife Sanctuary at Dangs truly deserves appreciation.

The Purna Wildlife Sanctuary in Dangs is however not lonely in this endeavor to secure the lives of various biological resources. The Vansda National Park has also joined hands with the Purna Wildlife Sanctuary located at Dangs to revive various life-forms and preserve them.

Tourism at KUTCH MANDVI

One of the finest beaches in Gujarat is at Mandvi, a historic port town of the Maharao of Kutch. The port of Mandvi was an important sea trade post between the near east and the far east, and brought considerable prosperity to the royal family of Kutch. The sailors of Mandvi were known to be adventurous and it is said even Vasco Do Gama used a Sailor from Mandvi to navigate to Zanzibar. As most of the top ports of India were controlled by Europeans, specially the Portugese, even the Mughals held the Maharaos of Kutch in high esteem, as they needed the port of Mandvi for exports, imports and for pilgrimages to Mecca. Mandvi town was therefore as important to the Maharaos as their capital city of Bhuj, and they endowed it with some splendid palaces and buildings.

The famous Aina mahal of Mandvi, built in the mid-18^th century by Ram Singh, who had been ship wrecked in Europe, learnt the arts of foundry, glass blowing, stone carving etc in the Dutch and Venetian tradition, and was patronised by the Maharao Lakhpat Sinhji of Kutch, is no longer as grand as the same sort of extravangaza they created in Bhuj, having been converted into a college for girls, but still has some interesting sculpture of Dutch sailors and dancing girls. Instead, you must see the much more recent Vijay vilas palace, erected in the 1940s, with splendid architectural features- umbrella domes and cupolas of the Rajasthani and Bengali styles consort with Gothic arches and Baroque features! The impressive palace is now open to visitors who can see the paintings and trophies inside, and enjoy views of the huge grounds to the sea, from the terrace.

Tourism at PIROTAN IsLAND" MARINE NATIONAL PARK

The entire forest & Island have various marine lives, such as a Various types of Crabs, Neptune, Wolf, King crab, Hermit crabs, Ghost crabs, Scorpions, Wiper- Isosceles, Sea snakes, Sea slugs, etc. The forest is very rich and dense in wild life, Marine creatures, Sea animals, and really a very good Paradise for Bird watchers and Nature lovers.

There are 250 species of Mangroves are available among 60 species, in India. At the wide Sea-Shore, Participants found very beautiful & colorful Reeforon, Grey Heron, Avocet, etc. The various species of Octopus, Sea Anemone, Sea Horse, Squid, Sea Slug, Sea Warm, sabella, Mud Skipper, Sea Bonellia, Coaster Cather, Sea Urchin, etc., marine lives & creatures. In the Deep Sea , we can found " DOLPHIN" ,too. Around the Light House and Mangroves forest,- Area of colorful Red, Blue, Violet,and Pink sponges.Various types of Corals- Moon coral, Star Coral, Finger Coral, Brain Coral, etc. Each Coral is a live colony of small & tiny marine lives, developing In & Under Coral. In the Local Language "Coral" is calling as "Parwada". They are certain Species of Fish- such as a Puffer fish, Brittle Star,Ray fish, Coral fish, Lobster fish, Pistol shrimp, etc. with more than 250 species are available, here.There are also so many varieties of birds are found here. I can say; " Pirotan is the heaven for the Bird watchers." Flamingo, Cranes, Sea Gull, Haring Gull, Blackhead Gull, Crab Plover Gull, Puffin etc., many birds are available here.

Tourism at SAPUTARA HILL STATION

Saputara means the 'Adobe of Serpent', is oerched at an altitude of 1000 mtrs, and is situated in the heart of Dangs district. Ity is located on the second highest plateau of the Sahyadari range with cool bracing climate and a scenic view of the verdant valley. Saputara has been dveloped as a planned hill resort with a;; the necessary amenities. The thick forest around Saputara is dotted with tribal villages and their unique dances are of great interest. Gujarat's picturesque hill station is perched on a plateau in the Dang forest area of the Sahyadri Range. At an altitude of about 1000m.

In winter, at the spill of dawn, trek up to the Gandhi Shikhar as the river of light bathes the streams over undulating mountains and the drifting birds, into a magical dance of awakening.

In rains, breathe in the rolling hills of Saputara, echoing green hues, lush with flowers, and watch the meditating rain drops sitting still on sloping leaves. Some of the thickest forest cover in the state envelops you.

In summer, walk carefree on the expanse of the Governor’s hill and see the sun dip into the Saputara lake as the sky begins to shimmer with stars.

As your bus chugs uphill, crisscrossing over the Ambika river, you leave all the congestion of towns and cities far below you and enter the spirit world of tribal people. Nestled in the Sahyadri range, at an altitude of about 1000 m, this Dangi enclave derives its name from the Snake god revered by the tribals and translates as ‘the abode of serpents’, Saputara.

In spite of being the only hill station of Gujarat, it is minimally commercialized, still unspoiled.

Tourism at Chittorgarh

Chittaurgarh - Rajasthan

Chittaurgarh is located in the southern part of Rajasthan. About 158 km from Bundi and 112 km from Udaipur, Chittaurgarh is famous for its massive Chittaurgarh fort that symbolizes the valor and romance. Established in the 8th century, Chittaurgarh is one of the oldest cities in India. Several tourists from the corners of the country travel to Chittaurgarh to see the magnificent fort of Chittaur. Chittaurgarh Fort is a most important landmark or historical monument in Rajasthan. The Fort stands proudly on a 280 hectare of area on top of a hill. All the tourist attractions of Chittaur aresituated within the walls of the fort. The fort of Chittaur reminds of the charm of yesteryear. Rana Kumbha Palace, Tower of Victory, Gaumukh Reservoir, Rattan Singh Palace, Padmini's Palace, Fateh Prakash Palace and Ratan Singh Palace are some of the Chittaurgarh's attractions. In Chittaurgarh lived kings and queens that are narrated so impressively in the history. View a world full of grand palaces, elegant forts and an origin to many courageous stories. Chittaur was bagged for the first time in 1303 AD by Alauddin Khilji. He was driven by a passionate desire to have beautiful queen Padmini. It is said that he saw her face in the reflection of a mirror and was taken aback by her hypnotizing beauty. Then there is a long saga of unsung heroes that ruled Chittorgarh from time to time. Rajasthan has been a land of chivalry and valor. Not only men are celebrated for their bravery but also the women who chose novelty to disgrace.

Tourism at Udaipur

About Rajasthan welcomes you to the most romantic city of the state. Tenderly named as the Venice of the East, this city of lakes boasts of its rich Rajput architecture and heritage. Udaipur is located in the southern region of Rajasthan. With About Rajasthan, experience the fascinating city of Udaipur and its magic. There are uncountable tourist attractions in Udaipur that will surely enrapture you. On your travel tour to Udaipur, do not miss to visit the City Palace. Built in 1725, the City Palace of Udaipur displays a magnificent architecture. A part of the City Palace of Udaipur has converted into a heritage hotel and rest is a museum that narrates the history of Udaipur. Erected by Maharana Singh in 1651, Jagdish Temple is the largest temple in this city of lakes. Encircled by rolling hills, palaces and temples,Pichola Lake is a splendid lake that envelops charm and pomp of bygone era. Other worth visiting places on your Udaipur tour is Saheliyon-Ki-Bari, Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandir, Gulab Bagh, Sajjan Garh, Fateh Sagar, Ahar, the Suraj Gokhada and Pratap Memorial.

The various lakes in the Udaipur city have made it the Venice of the East. The pleasant climate of the city offers a welcome respite from the harsh climate of Rajasthan. From lakes in midst of the sandy terrain to green forested hills, the city offers many surprises that will leave you mesmerized.

Its narrow and colorful streets make it a place worth more than a brief visit. The city also offers a variety of handcrafted items including dainty folk toys, brightly colored garments, hand-printed textiles, batiks, and tie & dye sarees and fabrics.

Tourism at Mount Abu

Mount Abu is perched on a 1,219 metres high rock plateau at the far southwestern end of the Aravalli hills. Well-known for its exquisitely carved marble Dilwara temples, Mount Abu is an appealing hill resort that attracts locals and foreigners alike. Being very close to Gujarat, it is a popular summer resort built around a lake and surrounded by thick woods and hills. It is said that the place was named after Arbuda, a serpent who descended to the spot to rescue Shiva's bull, Nandi. Besides the famous temples and other archeological remains, there are fascinating treks and picnic spots, romantic retreats of various erstwhile royal families of Rajputana and some remnants of the Raj period. Weirdly shaped gigantic rocks, lovely lakes and cool climate make Mt Abu a unique place in the arid desert land of the Thar.

Tourism at Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer in Rajasthan paints a real picture of Arabian Nights. Coming straight from your Arabian Night imagination, Jaisalmer is a jewel of the desert state and is dotted with forts, havelis and palaces. The best time to take a tour to Jaisalmer in Rajasthan is October-March. Jaisalmer is a beautiful town dotted with forts and palaces. There are numerous tourist attractions in Jaisalmer that will undoubtedly make your Jaisalmer tour an unforgettable experience. Jaisalmer Fort is the second oldest fort of the state and offers surely a vision of beauty and charm. The Fort of Jaisalmer has retained its old charm. Stroll around the market outside the fort. Havelis of Jaisalmer invite you to walk through the memory lane of nostalgia. Jaisalmer's havelis are known for their explicit artworks and carvings and are examples of blend of Rajput and Islamic style of architecture. For an ideal picnic with friends and family, visit Gadsisar Lake. For adventure enthusiasts get a peek into desert life. Visit SAM sand dune and enjoy camel safari. Jaisalmer is one of the most loved towns of Rajasthan. As a tourist destination, this city renders countless moments of pleasure for the yearning tourist. The traditional warmth and culture dominates the city of silvery sand dunes. The special magic and aura that this city creates is another feather in its cap. The city manages to sustain even during Brisith Raj and Mughal dynasty.

Tourism at Jaipur

Location:	Rajasthan, India
Significance:	Capital City of Rajasthan State
STD Code:	0141
Best Season:	October To March
Language:	Hindi, Urdu, Rajasthani
Distance From Agra:	232 Km
Distance From New Delhi:	258 Km

Conceived and built by the great and mighty king, Sawai Raja Jai Singh, the name of the city 'Jaipur' has dual emphasis. 'Jai' means victory and and is also the first name of its maker. Today, the city is a major tourist attraction in India because of its magnificent forts, grandiose palaces, vivacious temples, multihued bazaars, pulsating streets and its renowned pink color to which the city owes its oft-used name 'The Pink City'. This famous pink color symbolizes 'welcome' and was adopted during the times of the ruler Ram Singh II when he received the Prince of Wales in 1876. The color was chosen after several experiments to cut down the intense glare from the reflection of the blazing rays of the sun. Today, every home within the old city is obliged by law to maintain this uniqueness of the city. Throughout the old city you can see the traditional, marvelous, pink-colored houses with latticed windows lending charm to a scene which is almost miraculous at sunset.

Tourism at Bikaner

In the heart of the scorching Thar Desert, lies Bikaner of Rajasthan in India. The captivating desert scenery with all the majesty of its sand dunes, hard, rocky soil and thorny shrubs growing here and there, makes Bikaner endearing to nature lovers. The forts and red sandstone construction are the chief attractions of the city. It is a royal city surrounded by a mammoth fortification wall, more than 5 km in circumference and about 5 to 9m high.

Lying on the northern tip of the desert tourist triangle, Bikaner was a one of the significant staging post of the silk route in the days when businessmen used to travel mostly on camel caravans. Bikaner was founded in 1486 A.D. and was named after its founder, Rao Bikaji.

The Camel Breeding Farm in Bikaner is only one of its kinds in whole Asia and so is the illustrious Camel Festival. Bikaner is bright and alive and colorful with its traditional costumes, vivacious fairs and festivals, paintings and murals and electrifying wares and hoards of artistic skills that have been there for centuries.

Tourism at Ajmer

Location:	Rajasthan, India
Significance:	Famous for Dargah of Sufi Saint Chisti
STD Code:	0145
Best Season	October To March
Language:	Hindi, Urdu, Rajasthani
Distance From Jaipur	131 Km
Distance From New Delhi:	389 Km

Cradled amongst the barren hills, Ajmer in indeed a green oasis with an interesting past. The city was named after its founder, Raja Ajai Pal Chauhan, who founded it in the 7th century. Since then, Chauhans reigned over Ajmer till Prithviraj Chauhan lost the city to Mohammed Ghauri. Nonetheless, the culture and traditions of the city were strongly influenced by its rulers and one can see the indelible imprint of various cultures on the city. Just like old days, Ajmer continues to be a popular pilgrimage centre for both Hindus and Muslims. Dargah Sharief, the tomb of the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, is equally revered by both the communities and Urs fair attracts thousands and lakhs of pilgrims every year.

Tourism at Bodhgaya

Bodhgaya is one of the most important and sacred Buddhist pilgrimage center in the world. It was here under a banyan tree, the Bodhi Tree, Gautama attained supreme knowledge to become Buddha,the Enlightened One. Born; in the foothills of the Himalayas as a Sakya prince of Kapilvastu (now in Nepal), most of the major events of his life, like enlightenment and last sermon, happened in Bihar. Buddhism as a religion was really born in Bihar and evolved here through his preaching and the example of his lifestyle of great simplicity, renunciation and empathy for everything living. Significantly, the state's name of 'Bihar' originated from 'Vihara' meaning monasteries which abounded in Bihar. Several centuries after Buddha's passing away, the Maurya Emperor Ashoka (234-198 BC) contributed tremendously towards the revival, consolidation and spread of the original religion. It is the monasteries, Ashoka built for the Buddhist monks and the pillars known as Ashokan Pillars erected to commemorate innumerable historical sites associated with the Buddha's life, mostly intact to this day, that helped scholars and pilgrims alike to trace the life events and preaching of a truly extraordinary man. There is a magnificent Mahabodhi temple and the Tree from the original sapling still stands in the temple premises. The temple is an architectural amalgamation of many centuries, cultures and heritages. While its architecture has a distinct stamp of the Gupta era, it has later ages inscriptions describing visits of pilgrims from Sri Lanka, Myanmar and China between 7th and 10th century AD. It is perhaps still the same temple Hieuen Tsang visited in 7th century.

Tourism at Vaishali

Vaishali today is a small village surrounded by banana and mango groves as well as rice fields. But excavations in the area have brought to light an impressive historical past. The epic Ramayana tells the story of the heroic King Vishal who ruled here. Historians maintain that one of the world's first democratic republics with an elected assembly of representatives flourished here in the 6th century B.C. in the time of the Vajjis and the Lichchavis. And while Pataliputra, capital of the Mauryas and the Guptas, held political sway over the Gangetic plain, Vaishali was the center for trade and industry.

Lord Buddha visited Vaishali frequently and at Kolhua, close by, preached his last sermon. To commemorate the event, Emperor Ashoka, in the third century B.C. erected one of his famous lion pillars here. A hundred years after the Mahaparinirvana of the Buddha - Vaishali hosted the second great Buddhist council. Two stupas were erected to commemorate this event. Jainism, too, has its origins in Vaishali, for in 527 B.C., Lord Mahavir was born on the outskirts of the city, and lived in Vaishali till he was 22. Vaishali is then twice blessed and remains an important pilgrim center for both Buddhists and Jains, attracting also historians foraging for the past.

On the outskirts of Vaishali stood the grand double storied Buddhist monastery. Buddha often discoursed here. He extended spiritual enfranchisement to women by admitting them to the Holy Order which was founded here. Legend has it that on one of his visits, several monkeys dug up a tank for his comfortable stay and offered him a bowl of honey. This is regarded as one of the great incidents in the legends of Buddha, who announced his approaching Nirvana and preached his last sermon here.

Tourism at Nalanda

Tourism at Patna

Patna once called Pataliputra the capital of Bihar,is among the world's oldest capital cities with unbroken history of many centuries as imperial metropolis. A very fertile arched stretch of land along the bank of the Ganga. The history and heritage of modern day Patna go back well over two millennia. Like Delhi, Patna too had been the regal seat of governance for successive kingdoms since ancient times. And to this day, it is the capital city of the state. As each ruler ascended in power and established dynastic glory, he gave his capital a new name. Thus, the ancient Kusumpura metamorphosed through Pushpapura, Pataliputra, Azeemabad and now into Patna, a continuous history ranging from 6th century BC to present times - a record claimed by few cities in the world. It was Ajatshatru the Magadha king who first built a small fort in Pataligram on the bank of the Ganga in 6th century BC, which later blossomed into the ancient glory still to be seen in the neighboring archaeological sites at Kumrahar. Bhiknapahari, Agamkuan, Bulandi Bagh and Kankar Bagh. Pataliputra dominated the political fortunes of the whole of north India between 6th century BC and 5th century AD, a fact established by archaeological excavations. After a temporary eclipse, in 16th century, Sher Shah Suri returned the city to its former glory and established the present Patna. After the decline of the Mughals, the British too found Patna a convenient regional capital and built a modern extension to this ancient city and called it Bankipore. It was in Gandhi Maidan in this area, that Mahatma Gandhi held his prayer meetings.

Tourism at Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary

Just 42 km away from Delhi, this bird sanctuary was founded by the famous ornithologist Peter Jackson. Here, there are more than a hundred species of birds. The sanctuary has hideouts, watch towers, and a museum.

Tourism at Yadavindra Gardens

Located in Pinjore at a distance of 22 km from Chandigarh, the Yadavindra Gardens are perhaps the only Mughal gardens, that have a symmetric design. One of the most sought after holiday resorts, the gardens offer a restaurant, bar, conference hall and guest rooms. A mini zoo, and a Japanese garden are the other attractions.

Tourism at Badhkal lake

Just 32 km from Delhi, in the district of Faridabad, Badhkal lake is a popular picnic spot. Badhkal charms with its vibrant gardens and overwhelming serenity. It boasts of a bath complex, which comes equipped with a swimming pool and sauna facilities. Boating facilities are also available.

Tourism at Kurukshetra

Kurukshetra has been, the fountainhead, as it were, of Hinduism. This was the place, where the glorious epic battle of the Mahabharata was fought. Kurukshetra is dotted with about 360 places of pilgrimage, intrinsically related to the Mahabharata. Principal amongst the holy water tanks of this revered land, is the Brahma Sarovar. The main attraction of this tank, is the small temple built at its very centre. Another sacred water tank is the Sannihit Tank. Beside this lake, are temples of Lord Vishnu, Lord Hanuman and Goddess Durga. The Krishna Museum has beautiful wooden carvings, and other images depicting the various phases of Lord Krishna's life. The Gurudwara dedicated to Guru Hargobindji, the sixth Guru of the Sikhs, is near the Sannihit Tank.

Tourism at Sarnath

Buddhists worldwide look upon India as the land of the Buddha and a visit to this country means a pilgrimage to those places sacred to the memory of the Enlightened One.

After the Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya he came to Sarnath. Here in the Deer Park, he delivered his first sermon, or in religious language, set in motion the Wheel of Law (Maha-Dharmachakra Pravartan.). On the day before his death Buddha included Sarnath along with Lumbini, Bodh Gaya and Kushinagar as the four places he thought to be sacred to his followers.

The Emperor Ashoka, who spread Lord Buddha’s message of love and compassion throughout his vast empire, visited Sarnath around 234 BC, and erected a stupa here. Several Buddhist structures were raised at Sarnath between the 3rd century BC and the 11th century AD, and today it presents the most expansive ruins amongst places on the Buddhist trail. Sarnath is 10 km from the holy city of Varanasi, and is an exceedingly tranquil place. The ruins, the museum and temple are all within walking distance.

Tourism at Varanasi

Varanasi is one of the oldest living cities in the world. Many names have been given to Varanasi, though its recently revived official appellation is mentioned in the Mahabharata and in the Jataka tales of Buddhism. It probably derives from the two rivers that flank the city, the Varuna to the north and the Asi to the south.. Many still use the anglicized forms of Banaras or Benares, while pilgrims refer to Kashi, first used three thousand years ago to describe the kingdom and the city outside which the Buddha preached his first sermon; the "City of Light" is also called Kashika, "the shining one", referring to the light of Shiva. Another epithet, Avimukta, meaning "Never Forsaken", refers to the city that Shiva never deserted, or that one should never leave. Further alternatives include Anandavana, the "forest of bliss", and Rudravasa, the place where Shiva (Rudra) resides.

Varanasi’s associations with Shiva extend to the beginning of time: legends relate how, after his marriage to Parvati, Shiva left his Himalyan abode and came to reside in Kashi with all the gods in attendance. Temporarily banished during the rule of the great king Divodasa, Shiva sent Brahma and Vishnu as his emissaries, but ultimately returned to his rightful abode protected by his loyal attendants Kalabhairav and Dandapani. Over 350 gods and goddesses, including a protective ring of Ganeshaa form a mandala or sacred pattern with Shiva Vishwanatha at its centre.

Each name carries an additional meaning in terms of the sacred symbolism of the city, with each defining aprogressively decreasing arc starting and ending on the west bank of the Ganges. While the boundary of Kashi is delimited by the circular Panchakroshi Road, Varanasi is the main city, extending from Asi Ghat and circling around to the confluence of the Ganges and the Varuna. Yet a smaller area, defined as Avimukta, starts at Kedara Ghat in the south and ends at Trilochana Ghat. Most important of all is Antargriha, the "Inner Sanctum" around the Vishwanatha Temple, which encompasses Dashashwamedha Ghat, Surya Kund, the lingam of Bharabhuta, and Manikarnika Ghat. Another, later, interpretation suggests three sectors of khandas in the form of Shiva’s trident, each centered around a temple – Omkara to the north, Vishvanatha in the centre and Kendra to the south.

A city which, since it is both an exalted place of pilgrimage and an idealize centre of faith, has been likened to Jerusalem and Mecca.According to the historians, the city was founded some ten centuries before the birth of Christ. The city is mentioned in Holy Scriptures like 'Vamana Purana', Buddhist texts and in the epic 'Mahabharata'.Mark Twain,the English author and litterateur,who was enthralled by the legend and sanctity of Banaras,once wrote:"Banaras is older than history,older than tradition,older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together."

Varanasi's prominence in Hindu mythology is virtually unrivalled. For the devout Hindu the city has always had a special place, besides being a pilgrimage centre,it is considered especially auspicious to die here, ensuring an instant route to heaven.The revered and ancient city Varanasi is the religious centre of the world of Hindus. A city where the past and present, eternity and continuity co-exist.

The city of Banaras is situated on the west bank of the holiest of all Indian rivers, the Ganga or Ganges. The relationship between the sacred river and the city is the essence of Varanasi - 'the land of sacred light'. The Ganga is believed to have flown from heaven to wash away the worldly sins of the human race.of mortal's .The life and activities in the city centre around the holy river. Life on the banks of the Ganga begins before dawn when thousands of pilgrims - men, women and children - come down to the river to wait for the rising sun when immersion in the sacred river will cleanse them of their sufferings and wash their sins away.

Tourism at Ayodhya

Ayodhya is situated on the right bank of the river Ghagra or Saryu, as it is called within sacred precincts, on latitude 26^o 48’ north and longitude 82^o 13’ east in north India. Just 6 km from Faizabad, Ayodhya is a popular pilgrim centre. This town is closely associated with Lord Rama, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The ancient city of Ayodhya, according to the Ramayana, was founded by Manu, the law-giver of the Hindu. For centuries, it was the capital of the descendants of the Surya dynasty of which Lord Rama was the most celebrated king. Ayodhya during ancient times was known as Kaushaldesa.

Skand and some other Puranas rank Ayodhya as one of the seven most sacred cities of India. It was the venue of many an event in Hindu mythology, today pre-eminently a temple town, Ayodhya is also famous for its close association with the epic Ramayana. It is a city of immense antiquity full of historical significance and sacred temples. The Atharvaveda described Ayodhya as `a city built by Gods and being prosperous as paradise itself’. The illustrious ruling dynasty of this region were the Ikshvakus of the solar clan (Suryavansa). According to tradition, Ikshvakus was the eldest son of Vaivasvata Manu, who established himself at Ayodhya. The earth is said to have derived its name `Prithivi’ from Prithu, the 6^th king of the line. A few generations later came Mandhatri, in whose line the 31^st king was Harischandra, known widely for his love of truth. Raja Sagar of the same clan performed the Asvamedha Yajna and his great grandson Bhagiratha is reputed to have brought Ganga on earth by virtue of his penance. Later in the time came the great Raghu, after whom the family came to be called as Raghuvamsa. His grandson was Raja Dasaratha, the illustrious father of Rama, with whom the glory of the Kausala dynasty reached its highest point. The story of this epic has been immortalized by Valmiki and immensely popularized by the great masses through centuries.

Ayodhya is pre-eminently a city of temples yet, all places of worship here, are not only of Hindu religion. At Ayodhya several religions have grown and prospered simultaneously and also at different periods of time in the past.

Remnants of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Islam can still be found in Ayodhya. According to Jain tradition, five Tirthankaras were born at Ayodhya, including Adinath (Rishabhadeva) the 1^st Tirthankar.

Tourism at Jhansi

he Rani of Jhansi

Rani Lakshmi Bai, better known as the Rani, or queen, of Jhansi was one of the great nationalist heroines of pre-independence India. Born the daughter of a Benares brahmin, she was married off to Raja Gangadhar of Jhansi, but never bore him children – a fact exploited by the British to force her and her adopted baby son into retirement in 1853. The Rani retaliated in 1857, the year of "Mutiny", by leading her personal bodyguard of five hundred Afghan-Pathan warriors to seize Jhansi fort. The British dispatched troops to see off the insurgents, but took seventeen days to blow a beach in the walls of the citadel. Three days of fierce hand-to-hand fighting ensued, in which five thousand soldiers were killed. With her son strapped tightly to her back, the Rani somehow managed to slip through the British net and rejoin the main rebel army at Gwalior, where she rode to her death, dressed as a man using her sword with both hands and holding the reins of her horse in her mouth".

Statues of Rani Jhansi in this heroic pose stand all over northern India. For many in the Independence movement, she was India’s Joan of Arc; a martyr and icon whose example set in motion the freedom struggle that eventually rid the subcontinent to its colonial rulers.

Tourism at Mandi - Himachal Pradesh

Location: Himachal Pradesh
Altitude: 800m.
Main Attractions: Shivratri Festival
Best Time To Visit: May To October

Built along the Beas river is the historic town of Mandi, the gateway to the Kullu valley . Literally meaning market, Mandi was on the salt route to Tibet. This place offers better option to break journey to the Kullu valley . A district headquarter, Mandi is also renowned for its 81 old stone temples with exquisite carvings, thereby earning it the title of 'Varanasi of the Hills'. The town also has some remains of old palaces and notable examples of the 'colonial' architecture.

The Shivaratri Bhutnath celebrations in the Bhutnath temple attract tourists every year in large numbers. There are also two lakes near Mandi, which provide a good breather for the visitor. About five kms from the main town is the Tarana hills and on the top of the hill is Rani Amrit Kaur Park. From here one gets very good view of the nearby areas. The park has enclosed the Syama Kali temple, which was, built some where in the 17th century.

In the days of yore, the pious sage, Mandavaya, performed long and severe penance and practised unthinkable austerities on his body, on the right bank of the river Beas, near the present town, which, then took his name.

TEMPLES

Triloknath Shiva Temple:
It is built in the Nagari style with a tiled roof. The temple at the centre of a group of sculpted stones shrines, overlooks the river and offers good views. Inside the temple, Lord Shiva has been depicted as the lord of the three worlds, at the Panchvakhra he has five faces, expressing his five aspects.

Bhutnath Temple:
Practically synonymous with Mandi and located in its very heart, this temple is as old as the town itself, dating back to the 1520's. It has a Nandi or god Shiva's bull facing the ornamental double arch to the sanctuary. The modern shrines nearby are brightly painted. In the month of March, the festival of Shivratri is a major event and Bhootnath Temple is its focus.

Syamakali Temple:
Also known as the Tarna Devi Temple, this temple is situated on the Tarna Hill, which rises above the town. Raja Syama Sen built the temple in the 17th century after a particularly trying time when the goddess gave him success.

Ardhanarishvara Temple:
This 7th century specimen of temple architecture, enclosed structure of Lord Shiva in a composite form with the right half as male and the left half as female- symbolising the male and female principles of cosmic evolution

Tourism at KANGRA Himachal Pradesh

Once known as an important seat of administration, Kangra the capital city of Chand dynasty tells a story of glory, which has faded into history. One of the most picturesque valley of lower Himalayas, the valley, sheltered by the sublime Dhauladhar hills, is green and luxuriant.
The temple of Brajeshwari Devi is very famous in the area. It is believed that in the bygone era this temple was very rich and each time it was plundered it was always able to restore itself. The valley also comprises of the famous Kangra fort, which was taken over by the British in 1846 on clause of a treaty. In 1905 an earthquake destroyed both the temple and the fort, but the temple was rebuilt.
The town was attacked by Mohammed Ghaznavi and conquered by Emperor Feroz Tuglak and Maharaja Rant Singh. Prior to this episode, Kangra was the capital of the great Hill State, its renowned ruler being Maharaja Sansar Chand Katoch, a great patron of arts. It was during his reign that the Miniature and Rajpur Schools of hill paintings flourished. Close to Kangra is Nagarkot a beautiful area with the fort perched on top of a ridge overlooking the confluence of Manjhi and Baner rivers. Kangra valley provides a tremendous contrast in nature of places to be visited. Dharamshala is full of Buddhist air whereas ancient Hindu Temples such as Brajeshwari, Baijnath, Jawalamukhi and Chamunda Devi dot the countryside

Tourism at Palanpur-HP

Situated at an altitude of 1219 meters in the lap of Dhauladhar range. Set amidst the hills the small and clean exquisite town of Palampur is bejeweled with lush green terraced fields, the majestic deodar trees, beautiful tea gardens, pine forests the snow clad and breath taking Dhauladhar range with its imposing sky high peaks. It is a beautiful spot in Kangra valley. Palampur has beautiful gardens and lovely walks. It has a moderate climate which is suitable for all type of the tourists. The Agriculture University is located here. Many short and long walks/treks originate from here. It has a quite a reasonable accommodation and is well connected by rail, road and air. An amusement park with cable car is being developed to attract more and more tourists. Nearby is Neogal khad a 300 meters wide yawning chasm through which gushes the Bundla stream that become roaring trrent during the monsoon. The thundering water in the 300 meters wide chasm is a never to be forgotten sight.

Tourism at Kullu-HP

Enclosed by the last snow range of the Himalayas, the Dhaula Dhar, and Pir Panjal, running parallel to the south of it, is a valley that leaves the spectator awe-struck at the breath-taking grandeur of its mountains, its torrents and its vast expanses of snow in its upper regions. Fascinating, calm, placid and gorgeous, this is the Valley of the Gods, who in turn can be benign, angry and capricious.
It is fascinating when the gold of the morning sun flatter the snow-capped mountain tops, it is calm and placid when the gentle breezes move the wispy clouds over the blue vault, making the pines whisper secrets that the gods alone know and it is gorgeous when the breath-taking beauty of the Fall (Autumn) colours, gold, red and scarlet turn the valley into a veritable paradise. When the gods are benign, they bathe the valley with the kindly Sun gently giving energy and sustenance below when they are angry they pour down torrents of rain which brings down whole mountain sides making access to the valley impossible & when they are capricious, they are dangerous - the rivers rise and carry away bridges, houses, sheep and even the men who propitiate them in every hemlet, every village and every town. The very approach fills the traveller with a senseof the majesty of God, as he proceeds along a narrow and winding road that runs along the Beas through a gorge, where the rocky walls tower perpendicularly above over a thousand feet high, and the raging torrent is barely a few feet below. Blasted through solid rock the road runs for 40 km (25 miles) through the Mandi-Larji gorge till finally it opens out and every mile up the river treveals the changing beauty of the heavenly region. This is Kullu Valleytravellers have rhapsodied over the unique character of the journey up-the region, not more than a mile wide, in most parts, and 31 km [50 miles] in length.
Literally the valley of hundred temples and a thousand derties, it offers peace, a mysterious, spiritual peace which pervades every nook, every corner, and a peace breathed into the mountains, trees, stars and streams by countless sages and `rishis' who came here to contemplate. Here came Rishi Vyas, the author of the Mahabharata giving the river Vipasha his name, here came Vashisht, the hot sulphur springs are sacred to his memory, and here came the omniscient Brighu to sojourn at the lovely lake, near Manali, and 4,267 metres (14,000 ft) above sea level.
Finally, here, too, wandered the Pandvas in their years of exile and cultivated rice at Pandva-ka-Ropa, 3,658 metres (12,000 ft) above, from where the snow-covered ranges and glaciers reveal themselves in a magnificent panorama. Bhim, one of the Pandva brother, fell a victim to the charms of Hidamba, and had to engage in mortal combat with her maneating gaint brother, Hidamb. She overcame her filil love and with her help, Bhim killed the brother and married the sister. The Pandvas resided in Manali for a year and in due course, Hadimba presented Bhim with a son, the valiant Ghatotkatch, who died a hero's death in the battle of kurukshehtra. The women of the valley are famed for their beauty. The Kullu valley begins at Aut on the northern end of the gorge in the Dhaula Dhar, cut by the river Beas at Larji, above Mandi.
This is the second portion of Kangra, and the Beas here flows amidst broad cultivated terraces, about 1,000 metres (3,281 ft) above sea level. Above Vashisht, the valley is glaciated snow-truncated spurs and is U-Shaped. There is rock cliff below Kothi, which has been cut into a narrow I-shaped gorge, hardly 10 metres (33 ft) wide and 30 metres (984 ft) deep. It is a major rock step. Further the valley is again an open U, here, the road 73 climbs in a zig-zag manner to the Rohtang Pass across the Pir Panjal, where the river Beas rises. Falling rapidly at first, it tumbles headlong at the Rahalla Falls. Crystal spray against sheer rock, it falls into the alpine valley. At the top of the pass the air seems to glitter against the snow as one looks down over herring-bonned ridges in the Lahaul Valley.