TOURIST SPOTS

KUALA LUMPUR - CENTRAL MARKET

2009-03-17T23:38:00.000+08:00

Malaysia is well known for her multi-racial culture where people of different races live in peace and perfect harmony. Central Market has created a corner to display multi ethnicity and zoned the stalls based on the features of each race. The new zone therefore would consist of 3 lanes: namely the Lorong Melayu, Straits Chinese and Lorong India. The purpose of this new zone is to let the visitors have an insight of the cultural difference of the various races in Malaysia.

There’s also a Malacca Jonker street –a street featuring double storey and single storey Baba-Nyonya styled architectural buildings, a Batik Emporium which houses well known designer labels with the best Malaysian made batik items ranging from clothes, shoes, bags to home finishing.

Central Market is a one stop shopping centre for Malaysian products such as handicrafts, art, kebaya, songket, batik and the wide variety of Malaysian cuisine. Efforts to improvise and upgrade facilities in Central Market also include having a wider variety of F & B outlets such as Secret Recipe, Old Town Kopitiam, Kings Confectionary, Famous Amos, Precious Restaurant (Traditional Baba Nyonya Cuisine) , Ginger Restaurant (Traditional Malaysian Thai Cuisine) and many more.

Not to forget, the colorful Malaysian Traditional Cultural and Arts events are now held at the Central Market Outdoor Stage. Central Market celebrates all the Traditional Festival of each race in Malaysia such as Hari Raya Festival, Chinese New Year Festival, Deepavali Festival, Punjabi Festival and lots more. Other than the traditional cultural events, Central Market supports the local contemporary arts such as Art Exhibition, Video Screening, Independent Music Concert and lots more in The Annexe Gallery.

The proposed exercise is to give Central Market, a building with a 120 years history a new identity to attract younger generations to appreciate the need for racial tolerance and the need for racial integration. As we all know, Central Market is a historic landmark of Kuala Lumpur and there can be no other better place to remind the younger generations of the Malaysian Culture that has been so entrenched that people of all races can come together to live in peace and harmony.

Key Tips
Central Market is situated at the border of Chinatown, so it would be a good idea to wind-up with a walking tour of Chinatown at Central Market, where you can find some air-conditioning and a refreshing drink.

How to get there
By Foot or Taxi
Central Market is on Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock, opposite the Klang Bus Stand.

By Train
The Pasar Seni station on the PUTRA LRT line is right outside Central Market.

Who to contact
For more information, please contact Central Market Management at 0320310399/5399/7399/9399. Alternatively you could also surf their website at http://www.centralmarket.com.my for further updates.

Accommodation Overview
Kuala Lumpur offers a full range of accommodation, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.

KUALA LUMPUR - KL TOWER

2009-03-16T21:00:00.000+08:00

To experience the exhilarating view from the KL Tower, you can go to the 335-metre high observation deck on a high-speed lift. From here, the city's eccentric architecture and lush greenery will be laid out before you.

The Bukit Nanas Forest reserve, also known as the 'Green Lung' of KL City, is located just beside the KL Tower. This uniquely 'real' plot of ancient rainforest offers a walking trail and has flora and fauna indigenous to Malaysia. Here, you get the frankly surreal opportunity to see colourful butterflies, insects, monkeys, squirrels and exotic birds in their natural habitat - all within earshot of the hum of downtown traffic!

The latest attraction at KL Tower and Bukit Nanas is a reverse bungee called The G-Force. Not for the faint of heart, your ride will be recorded and given to you on a DVD.

On top of the KL Tower is the Seri Angkasa revolving restaurant where you can sample an international buffet spread while watching a continuously revolving view of the Kuala Lumpur skyline.

Key Tips
It is an uphill walk to the tower from the downtown streets, so if you are not overly fond of the heat and/or walking, do take a taxi. There are occasionally traditional and contemporary musical performances here, so get in touch with the tower information desk before you go.

How to get there
By Monorail or Taxi
The easiest way to get to the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve is via the KL Monorail and PUTRA LRT. The nearest PUTRA LRT station to Kuala Lumpur Tower is the Dang Wangi station. You could also take the KL Monorail and disembark at the Bukit Nanas station. From there you need to either take a taxi or walk up Jalan Sultan Ismail then turn right on Jalan P. Ramlee, and right again up the hill. The KL Tower entrance will be on your left.

Who to contact
For more information, please visit: www.menarakl.com.my

Accommodation Overview
Kuala Lumpur offers a full range of accommodation, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.

KUALA LUMPUR - NATIONAL MONUMENT

2009-03-16T20:57:00.001+08:00

The seven bronze human figures, atop an oblong base; each figure denoting one of seven qualities: courage, leadership, sacrifice, strength, suffering, unity and vigilance.

The topmost figure, at the centre, holds aloft the Malaysian flag. He is flanked on the left and right by two other soldiers, both armed; the figure on the left is armed with a machinegun, while the other carries a rifle and a bayonet.

Beside the National Monument are the ASEAN Gardens and the Memorial Tun Razak which, houses memorabilia of Malaysia's second Prime Minister, the late Tun Abdul Razak Hussein.

Key Tips
It is best to visit when it is cool as there isn't shelter at the Monument. Also, it would be a good idea to combine a visit to this monument with a trip to the Lake Gardens right next door.

How to get there
By Taxi
The National Monument, right next to Lake Gardens and is right off Jalan Parlimen.

Who to contact
For more information, please contact the Malaysia Tourist Centre (MTC) at telephone number +60 92354848/ 9235 4900 or Tourism Infoline : 1-300-88-5050.

Accommodation Overview
Kuala Lumpur offers a full range of accommodation, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.

KUALA LUMPUR - JALAN TUANKU ABDUL RAHMAN

2009-03-16T20:51:00.003+08:00

This stretch of road is flanked by pre-war buildings whose distinctive facades are preserved and re-adapted to accommodate modern retailing businesses. Here, you can walk through the archways of shops for an immersion into a shopping and cultural experience that goes back several decades to the days before modern shopping centres.

Many established names like GS Gill, P. Lal and PH Henry chose to remain when others moved out. The shops here offer a wide range of fabrics and textiles, imported leather goods, bags and luggage, carpets, sports goods and winter clothing.

Narrow alleys between the shops offer a fantastic range of clothing material at irresistible bargain prices. Other established names offer collections of silver and crystalware. The very modern Sogo Shopping Complex and Maju Junction Mall are also located along this stretch.

Every Saturday between 5.00 pm -10.00 pm, Lorong Tuanku Abdul Rahman is closed to traffic and transformed into a night market where petty traders and hawkers sell an assortment of goods in the open air.

The night market, or literally translated as "Pasar Malam" in the Malay language, offers you an interesting place to walk through and perhaps pick up some casual attire, local products, as well as sample some local delicacies. This experience is a feast for the senses.

Key Tips
The colourful neighbourhood of Little India lies parallel to Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman and has the genuine feel of an Indian bazaar. It's also just a 10-minute walk from Chinatown, so you can explore both places on the same outing.

How to get there
By Taxi
The busy part of Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman is in between Jalan Tun Perak (Dataran Merdeka, Merdeka Square) and Jalan Sultan Ismail. A good landmark to stop at is Sogo shopping mall.

By LRT
The Bandaraya station on the STAR line is on Jalan Raja Laut, which is parallel to Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman. Alternatively, you can get off at Masjid Jamek (both lines), walk into the little lane that leads into Little India and cut across the alley onto Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman.

Who to contact
For more information, please contact the Kuala Lumpur Tourist Office Tel: +603-2615 8188 Tourism Infoline : 1-300-88-5776

Accommodation Overview
Kuala Lumpur offers a full range of accommodation, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.

KUALA LUMPUR - LAKE GARDENS

2009-03-16T20:49:00.003+08:00

KUALA LUMPUR - LAKE GARDENS

Today, its landscaped hills and beautiful trails provide an escape for city dwellers out for a jog or some early morning t'ai chi. Its main attraction is the lake surrounded by lush greenery in a 92ha. (227 acres) parkland that provides a refreshing ambience.

Roam through the aviaries at the Bird Park and Butterfly Park. Or take a stroll through the beautiful Deer Park and Orchid Garden, which are all reachable either by foot or by regular shuttle buses. From the gardens, you can also visit other attractions such as the National Monument, the Planetarium and the Islamic Museum.

Key Tips
Carcosa Seri Negara is within the Lake Gardens. They serve scones that melt in your mouth and English tea on the verandah in the cool afternoons.

How to get there
By Taxi
Entrances to the Lake Gardens are on Jalan Parlimen and behind the National Mosque.

Who to contact
For more information, please contact the Kuala Lumpur Tourist Office Tel: +603-2615 8188 Tourism Infoline : 1-300-88-5776

Accommodation Overview
Kuala Lumpur offers a full range of accommodation, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.

KUALA LUMPUR - PETRONAS TWIN TOWER

2009-03-16T20:44:00.001+08:00

Inspired by the geometric shape found in Islamic architecture, this gleaming mega-structure was designed by Argentinian-American architect Cesar Pelli.

Stretching out to one side of this architectural masterpiece is the spacious and beautifully landscaped KLCC Park. Other attractions at KLCC are Suria Shopping Complex, Petronas Philharmonic Hall, Petrosains Science Centre, Petronas Art Gallery and Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, where The Aquaria Oceanarium is situated.

Key Tips
Visiting the sky bridge is a great experience, it is open to visitors between 8.30am - 5.00pm from Tuesday to Sunday.

How to get there
By Foot or Taxi
The Petronas Twin Towers are in between Jalan Ampang and Jalan Raja Chulan. It is also next to the Mandarin Oriental Hotel and opposite The Ascott.

By Train
The KLCC station is on the PUTRA LRT line.

Who to contact
For more information, please go to: www. suriaklcc.com.my

Accommodation Overview
Kuala Lumpur offers a full range of accommodation, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.

KUALA LUMPUR - PETRONAS PHILHARMONIC HALL

2009-03-16T20:36:00.002+08:00

Kuala Lumpur

A delightful mix of cross-cultural influences and traditions, Kuala Lumpur radiates an exciting, enticing charm, which will no doubt pique your interest throughout your stay.

Let the city's warmth embrace you as you lose yourself in its unique blend of tradition, cultureold world charm and new world sophistication. Explore its nooks and crannies, and you'll discover captivating sights, sensational sounds, aromatic smells and fantastic people.

Kuala Lumpur, affectionately known as KL, is an amazing cultural melting pot. Here, you will wander through communities of Chinese, Malays, South Indians, East Malaysian ethnic groups, Thais, Indonesians, Sikhs and a huge community of expats. Each community offering its own festivals, food, music, art and fashion while influencing each other's cultures.

KL has a lively nightlife scene and a fascinating art and performance culture, which blends contemporary and traditional styles from many backgrounds. There is the widest range of sporting activities available with state-of -the-art facilities to impress any sporting enthusiast. The architecture is somewhat eccentric and is certainly unique, from hundred year old mansions to awe-inspiring sky scrapers, and all within metres of each other. Treat your tastebuds to Kuala Lumpur's extremely varied cuisine, which is certainly a tasty adventure in itself! Above all else KL is a shopping haven, offering everything from street side trinkets to haute couture.

The resulting kaleidoscope of cultures, costumes and cuisines is nothing short of a whirlwind for the senses - more intense here than anywhere else in the country.

Tourists to Kuala Lumpur can also experience the magic of the city through a unique double decker bus tour. For further information, check out their website at: www.myhoponhopoff.com

KUALA LUMPUR - PETRONAS PHLHARMONIC HALL

It is home to the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra comprising an impressive cast of local and international musicians.The hall regularly features regular concerts, recitals, chamber concerts and traditional cultural performances by the Petronas Cultural Troupe.

Since opening its doors in 1998, visitors have been treated to a host of world-renowned classical artists and orchestras, as well as international jazz musicians, traditional Malaysian music and dance productions.

As the first purpose-built concert hall in Malaysia, the Petronas Philharmonic Hall aims to be the focal point for enthusiastic classical music audiences, as well as those of other complementary musical styles such as jazz and world music.

The good news for you is this, even if you are planning to spend just a few days in Kuala Lumpur, you stand a very good chance of catching an amazing performance at the Philharmonic Hall.

Key Tips
All guests are asked to dress formally to enter the hall. A good excuse to get dressed up!

How to get there
By Foot or Taxi
The Petronas Philharmonic Hall is within the Petronas Twin Towers, which is on Jalan Ampang.

By Train
The PUTRA LRT can also take you directly to KLCC. Just alight at the KLCC station.

Who to contact
For more information please visit http://www.malaysianphilharmonic.com

Accommodation Overview
Kuala Lumpur offers a full range of accommodation, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.

PENANG

2009-03-15T23:04:00.002+08:00

Penang, often referred to as the Pearl of the Orient, is one of the most picturesque and romantic cities in all of Asia. This tropical island lies in the Indian Ocean, just off the north-west coast of Peninsular Malaysia.

Penang received its name from the Pinang, or Betel Nut tree, once commonly found on the island. Established as the first British trading post in the Far East in 1776, Penang today is a bustling metropolis reflecting a uniquely exotic blend of East and West.

The state of Penang consists of the island of Penang and a strip of land on the mainland known as Seberang Prai.

The Penang Bridge, one of the longest in Asia at 13.5 km, links the two land masses. Penang is also connected by a ferry service to the mainland. On Penang Island sits the capital, Georgetown, a city steeped in history and tradition yet sparkling with progress and modern development. Certain sections of Penang present a quaint picture from the past where narrow side streets, trishaws, temples and traders plying their goods, seem to belong to a forgotten era. Penang is a shopper's paradise for goods old and new, at bargain prices.

The island also boasts some of the best food in the region, ranging from fabulous Chinese, Malay and Nyonya cuisines to foodstall favourites like nasi kandar, char kway teow and penang laksa, all of which are cooked in a uniquely 'Penang' way.

PENANG - BATU FERRINGHI

Soak in the sun or unwind on the beach while you enjoy a host of aquatic thrills from wind-surfing to canoeing. For a spine-tingling adventure, try parasailing to enjoy the view of the beach from the sky.

As the sun sets, Batu Ferringhi comes alive with a carnival-like atmosphere with an open-air bazaar selling anything from ornate curios to enticing souvenir items.

Watch local artisans demonstrate the intricate art of craft-making and batik-painting. Dubbed the Feringghi Walk, the bazaar offers shoppers a host of attractions.

Key Tips
A short taxi ride away is the Spice Garden, a beautifully landscaped garden with a little coffee house (delicious cakes!) and short jungle trail attached.

How to get there
Taxi
Your best option to get to and from Batu Ferringhi to Georgetown and back is by taxi. Buses are infrequent and it's just too far and too hot to cycle.

Who to contact
For more information, please contact the Penang Tourist Information Centre Tel: +604 2643494/ 263 4941 Email: mtpbpen@tourism.gov.my

Accommodation Overview
This popular stretch of beach is famous for its range of 4 and 5 star hotels lining the beach. However, there is also a good choice of backpacker's places.

PENANG- CHEONG FATT TZE MANSION

Rescued from the perils of development in the 1990s by a small group of Heritage preservationists led by Laurence Loh, the Cheong Fatt Tze mansion possesses splendid Chinese timber carvings, Gothic louvre windows, russet brick walls and porcelain cut & paste decorative shard works, art nouveau stained glass panels, Stoke-on-Trent floor tiles and Scottish cast iron work.Its layout is based on feng-shui principles, and filled with rare a collection of sculptures, carvings, tapestries and other antiques.

In 2000, the Cheong Fatt Tze mansion received the inaugural Unesco Asia-Pacific Heritage Conservation Award, selected as the 'Most Excellent Project' in the Asia Pacific Rim following its RM7.6 milllion restoration works.

Key Tips
Today, visitors have the chance to stay at the Cheong Fatt Tze mansion as its doors are open to visitors who wish to experience and absorb the aura of 19th-century architecture. Tours of Cheong Fatt Tze mansion are available at 11.00 am on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays.

How to get there
By Foot or Taxi
Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion is on Lebuh Leith, in between Lebuh Chulia and Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah.

Who to contact
For more information, please visit http://www.cheongfatttzemansion.com/

Accommodation Overview
This destination is a boutique hotel in its own right. If you choose to stay elsewhere in town, Penang has a wide range of accommodation available, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.

PENANG - GODESS OF MERCY TEMPLE

The Goddess of Mercy Temple, or Kuan Yin Temple, is the first temple ever built in Georgetown, Penang, by Chinese settlers. The temple honours Kuan Yin, a devout Buddhist who was said to have attained the coveted state of Nirvana but had chosen instead to remain on earth in order to provide guidance and help to those who are themselves striving to reach Nirvana. The temple interior is usually filled with the scent of sandalwood incense, burnt by devotees who visit the temple to pray and seek guidance from Kuan Yin.

The temple also honours Ma Chor Poh, the patron saint of seafarers, who was highly regarded by the Chinese settlers, many of whom had travelled great distances, crossing the seas from China to Penang.

Enjoy the temple's many beautiful features like the dragon-entwined pillars, carved from a type of green stone, which support the temple's high roof. Also look for the statue of Kuan Yin, located in an inner chamber, which depicts a woman with 18 arms, who has a countenance which exudes inner peace and worldly contentment.

Key Tips
The Goddess of Mercy's feast is celebrated on the 19th day of the 2nd, 6th and 9th lunar months each year. These events denote Kuan Yin's birthday, her initiation and the event of her attaining the state of Nirvana. If you happen to be in Penang during these times, you will be able to observe Chinese operas and puppet shows.

How to get there
By Foot or Taxi
The temple is in Central Georgetown on Jalan Masjid Kapitan Kling (Lebuh Pitt) in between Lorong Stewart and Lebuh Farquhar.

Who to contact
For more information, please contact the Penang Tourist Information Centre Tel: +604 2643494 / 263 4941 Email: mtpbpen@tourism.gov.my

Accommodation Overview
Penang has long been a popular stopover on the traveller's trail and, as such, a wide range of accommodation is available, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.

PENANG- SRI MAHA MARIAMMAN TEMPLE

The Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in George Town is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Penang. Its beginnings can be traced back to as early as 1801, when it was a small shrine.

Penang's rapid growth as a trading hub especially of goods such as nutmeg, clove and pepper attracted traders from Europe, America, Arabia, India and China. These traders eventually settled down in Penang.

At the same time, seeing the need for a proper worshipping space for the increasing Indian community on the island, the shrine was expanded into a proper temple. It was then enlarged into a temple in 1833. This year is significant as it is noted as the year the temple was founded.

It was decorated by artisans and built in elaborate South Indian architecture. Statues of Hindu Gods, goddesses and sacred animals adorn the temple throughout. There is also a priceless statue of Lord Subramaniam, the revered Hindu deity, adorned in gold, diamonds and emerald finery.

Throughout the years, the Sri Maha Mariamman temple is also known by several names: Sri Muthu Mariamman Temple, Sri Arulmigu Mahamariamman Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple. These names refer to the same temple.

The temple is easily recognisable, from its intricate gopuram (sculpted wall tower), and visitors are encouraged to observe the prayer sessions carried out by the temple priests. This temple is located at Little India in Georgetown at the junction of Lebuh Chulia and Lebuh Queen.

Key Tips
Please take your shoes off when entering a place of worship. Photography is allowed in the temple grounds, but not in the inner sanctum. Opening hours: 8.00 am - 12.00 noon and 4.00 pm - 9.00 pm

How to get there
On foot or taxi
Sri Maha Mariamman Temple is located in Central Georgetown on Jalan Masjid Kapitan Kling (Lebuh Pitt), in between Lebuh Pasar and Lebuh Chulia.

Who to contact
For more information, please contact the Penang Tourist Information Centre Tel: +604 2643494 / 263 4941 Email: mtpbpen@tourism.gov.my

Accommodation Overview
Penang has long been a popular stopover on the traveller's trail and, as such, a wide range of accommodation is available, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.

PENANG - FORT CORNWALLIS

The fort's walls, roughly 10 feet high, are laid out in a star-shape formation. A stroll along the perimeters takes roughly 10 minutes. Inside the fort, you can still see some of the original structures built over a century ago, including a chapel, prison cells, ammunitions storage area, a harbour light once used to signal incoming ships, the original flagstaff and several old bronze cannons, one of which is a Dutch cannon called the Seri Rambai, dated 1603. An interesting note about the Seri Rambai is that some locals believe that this particular cannon can have a positive effect on a woman's fertility.

Today, this privately managed historical site is popular among visitors. It is equipped with a tourist information kiosk, a cafe, an open-air amphitheatre, a history gallery, a souvenir centre as well as guides who can take you around the fort grounds and provide you with a glimpse into the fort's history.

Key Tips
Fort Cornwallis offers the service of friendly and knowledgeable tour guides, dressed up in smart, red colonial soldier outfits, who can give you a quick and insightful tour of the fort grounds for a small fee. Without the aid of a guidebook or background knowledge of Fort Cornwallis' history, engaging these guides to take you around will be well worth the money. Opening hours are from 8.30 am to 6.30 pm daily.

How to get there
By Foot or Taxi
Fort Cornwallis is on the edge of Central Georgetown on Jalan T. S. S. Barakbah off Lebuh Light.

Who to contact
For more information, please contact the Penang Tourist Information Centre Tel: +604 2643494 / 263 4941 Email: mtpbpen@tourism.gov.my

Accommodation Overview
Penang has long been a popular stopover on the traveller's trail and, as such, a wide range of accommodation is available, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels

PENANG -MUSEUM & ART GALLERY

Once you set foot inside the museum building, you will see why the State Museum located along Jalan Farquhar in Georgetown is reputed to be one of the best state museums in the country. Divided into galleries dedicated to Penang's historical communities, as well as particular historical events that took place in Penang, the museum houses a fine collection of old photographs, maps, historical documents, Chinese furniture, embroidery, costumes and other historical relics.

On the first floor where the Art Gallery is located, works of local artists and paintings of old Penang are on display, namely those by William Daniels and Captain Robert Smith. From time to time, special exhibitions are held here.

Key Tips
Opening Hours: Mondays through Thursdays, from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm (Lunch break from 1 pm to 2 pm). Fridays from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm (Lunch from 12.30 pm to 2.30 pm)

How to get there
By Foot or Taxi
Penang Museum & Art Gallery is in Central Georgetown on Lebuh Farquhar, in between Jalan Masjid Kapitan Kling (Lebuh Pitt) and Love Lane (Lorong Cinta).

Who to contact
For more information, please contact the Penang Tourist Information Centre Tel: +604 2643494 / 263 4941 Email: mtpbpen@tourism.gov.my

Accommodation Overview
Penang has long been a popular stopover on the traveller's trail and, as such, a wide range of accommodation is available, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.

PENANG - KAPITAN KELING MOSQUE

Surrounded by a low wall, this white-washed mosque is adorned with yellow Moghul-style domes and turrets. A madrassah (a place where religious classes are held) can also be found within the mosque's compound. The tall minaret, once used by the muezzin to deliver his call to prayers, is located on the corner of Buckingham and Pitt Street.

Key Tips
Visitors are welcome into the Kapitan Keling Mosque grounds. However, do remember to remove your footwear and wear modest clothing before you enter the mosque building.

How to get there
By Foot or Taxi
Kapitan Keling Mosque is on Jalan Masjid Kapitan Kling (Lebuh Pitt) in between Lebuh Chulia and Jalan Buckingham.

Who to contact
For more information, please contact the Penang Tourist Information Centre Tel: +604 2643494 / 263 4941 Email: mtpbpen@tourism.gov.my

Accommodation Overview
Penang has long been a popular stopover on the traveller's trail and, as such, a wide range of accommodation is available, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.

PENANG- KHOO KONGSI

One of five clan houses still standing in Georgetown, the Khoo Kongsi clan house takes on a remarkable resemblance to a mini clan village. One of the grandest clan houses in Penang, the Khoo Kongsi features tall thin columns supporting a gently sloping, red tiled roof, topped with carvings of dragons, phoenixes, mythical animals and various scenes from popular Chinese legends.

The clan house also has a grand hall adorned with resplendent and intricate carvings and richly ornamented pillars which are said to have been crafted by master craftsmen from China. Other major Hokkien clan houses that can be found in Penang are the Cheah Kongsi, Yeah Kongsi, Lim Kongsi and Tan Kongsi.

Key Tips
Opening hours: 9.00 am - 5.00 pm.

How to get there
By Foot or Taxi
There are two entrances to the Khoo Kongsi. One is on Jalan Masjid Kapitan Kling (Lebuh Pitt), in between Armenian Street and Lebuh Aceh. The second entrance is on Lebuh Pantai, also in between Armenian Street and Lebuh Aceh.

Who to contact
For more information, please visit http://www.khookongsi.com.my/

Accommodation Overview
Penang has long been a popular stopover on the traveller's trail and, as such, a wide range of accommodation is available, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.

LANKAWI

2009-03-15T22:46:00.004+08:00

Langkawi has been designated a UNESCO Global Geopark, Southeast Asia's first, and Malaysia's pride. This cluster of 99 islands offers beautiful beaches, world-class infrastructure, ultra-cheap duty-free shopping and fascinating myths and legends.

Off the coast of Kedah is a cluster of 99 islands with the best of many worlds; beautiful beaches, world-class infrastructure, mangroves rich in flora and fauna, ultra-cheap duty-free shopping and fascinating legends.

Langkawi has a lingering legend woven into its history. Ask anyone in Langkawi about the tragic legend of a beautiful young lady named Mahsuri, and you'll hear a tale of love, jealousy and a curse that was placed upon the island by the her for seven generations. Today, the seventh generation of Langkawiâ€™s inhabitants has long come and gone, but people here still believe that the prosperity and blessings the islands enjoy today and the passing of the curse is not a pure coincidence. The mysticism of this legend can be felt in many parts of this island, especially at Makam Mahsuri (Mahsuriâ€™s Mausoleum) where the famous legendary figure is said to be buried.

Langkawi is not only geared towards tourism. Many of the islanders are farmers, fishermen and entrepreneurs. Experience the beautiful countryside and the peaceful landscape of paddy fields by renting a car and taking a leisurely drive around the island. Some of Langkawiâ€™s most rustic and memorable views are along the road that circles the island. You'll pass small villages with wooden houses framed by palm trees, and children pedalling their old bicycles on an errand. Aside from experiencing the local lifestyle, there is no shortage of things to do in Langkawi.

Head up the thrilling new cable car to the summit of Mount Mat Cincang - Langkawi's second highest mountain - for an unrivalled view of the entire main island and beyond. You can also visit the Field of Burnt Rice, the Hot Springs, Telaga Tujuh (The Seven Wells) and the Beach of Black Sand. Boat tours are organised to Tasik Dayang Bunting, (Lake of the Pregnant Maiden), Gua Cerita (Cave of Stories) and the Gua Langsir (Curtain Cave). And if you're more outdoorsy, why not go trekking through the pristine rainforest that blankets most of Langkawi, or go on a boat tour of the mangroves, go diving, or play a round of golf at some of the 5-star resorts. Langkawi also has an underwater world, containing an underground tunnel that runs though a giant aquarium, that has gotten rave reviews.

For beautiful scenery, great adventures and five-star conveniences, Langkawi is the place to getaway.

LANKAWI - CABLE CARS

Key Tips
Simply fantastic views from the top! It would be a shame to miss this if you make your way to Langkawi.

How to get there
By Road
Langkawi Cable Car is located on the southwest coast of the main island, just a 30-minute drive from Kuah Town and only 15 minutes from Langkawi International Airport. Your best bet is to either hire a car or a taxi for the day and explore the island at your own pace.

Who to contact
The Cable Car Office is at Oriental Village, Jalan Telaga Tujuh, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah Darul Aman, Malaysia. Tel : 604-9594225 Fax : 604-9594121

Accommodation Overview
Langkawi offers a full range of accommodation, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.

LANKAWI - MANGROVES

Among the most exciting of these are the Brahminy Kites and huge Sea Eagles who nest in the crags overhead. One of the best ways to discover this usually inaccessible mangrove world is to join the regular small boat tours available. The highlight of any tour to the mangroves is the feeding of the eagles. Your boatman will throw food into the water near your boat and wait for these huge birds to circle overhead and swoop in for their 'lunch'.

Mangrove tours can include jungle trekking, cave exploration, village visits, high tide swims and guided exploration of mangrove flora and fauna. Decide on what itinerary best suits you before you book.

Explore kilometres of tidal forests, rugged limestone cliffs, secluded caves and unique flora. Pure Nature!

Key Tips
Once again, sunblock and water are the order of the day. Another top tip: Set your camera on wide-angle during the feeding of the eagles in order to get a decent shot of them swooping into the water to feed.

How to get there
By Taxi and Boat
The jetty for this tour lies just 15 minutes north of Kuah Town. But chances are you won't need directions as you will be part of a tour that does pick-ups and drop-offs at your hotel.

Who to contact
For more information, please contact the Langkawi Tourist Information Centre at 604-9667789.

Accommodation Overview
Langkawi offers a full range of accommodation, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.

LANKAWI - DATA BAI

There are several jungle trails that take you down to the peaceful Datai Bay beach. There is also a crocodile farm on the way to Datai Bay where you can watch the crocodiles as part of entertaining shows in the mornings and afternoons.

Key Tips
Unless you're on an organised tour, your best bet is to rent a car - very cheap in Langkawi - to give yourself the freedom to explore at your own pace.

How to get there
By Road
Teluk Datai is about 30km or 30 minutes' drive north of the Langkawi International Airport.

Who to contact
For more information, please contact the Langkawi Tourist Information Centre at 604-9667789.

Accommodation Overview
If you are not staying at the luxury resorts at Datai Bay, Langkawi offers a full range of accommodation, from basic backpacker's hostels to 5-star hotels.

LANKAWI - INTERNATIONAL FASHION ZONE

Choose from authentic and affordable brands such as Hugo Boss, Gucci, Versace, Prada, Armani, Valentino, Broni, Zegma, Gianco Ferre. Complete your dayâ€™s duty-free shopping with a stop at LIFZ and marvel at the wide selection available!

Key Tips
A one-stop multi-branded factory emporium outlet that houses world class brands ranging from men's, ladies wear and accessories

Who to contact
LIFZ Block E Oriental Village Jalan Teluk Burau 07000 Langkawi Te +6049591318

RISHIKESH - NORTH INDIA

2009-03-13T21:57:00.002+08:00

Spiritual Disneyland

Garhwal Himalayas hold different significance for different people. And Rishikesh is just about that. Adventurers (like of Bradd Pitt), spiritualists (likes of Beatles), Yoga and Meditation enthusiasts (likes of Kate Winslet) maintain a constant bee-line from across the world to this site-of-many-amusements. The ambiance of saffronised hippies and sadhus, an unceasing hum of hypnotic chants, backpackers squatting at every bend of street, and you-name-it merchandisers, might create an instant repulsion at having landed in a madhouse, very different from what you expected. Interestingly, this exactly is the purpose you came here for --- find peace amidst turmoil, spiritual rejuvenation in a world of constant worries! And you can actually find your way through the crowds to that little, precious space you can call your own, and henceforth, carry with you wherever you head, to retire to when you want to. This, and many more of spiritual secrets await you at Rishikesh. And yes, in this spiritual brouhaha, please do not undermine its rivers and rapids, hills and gorges --- it will be not just blasphemous, but foolish. Also, Rishikesh paves the way for the holy Char Dham Yatra of the Hindu pilgrim world.

Tale of the City

“Rishikesh” means the land of the Rishis. The legend says that Rishikesh is the place where Lord Rama came came on the advice of sage Vasishtha to do penance for killing Ravana. The scores of Ashrams and Temples shot up as a result of its confluence of sages and scholars that gathered here to preach, discuss Hindu philosophies and spiritualism. Its veritable positioning -- bounded by the Himalayas and the mighty Ganges roaring past its shores, have shot it to fame newly for a perfect haven for weekend adventurers.

Attractions

Triveni Ghat: Believed to be the confluence of the river Ganges and Chandrabhaga, on the south end of Rishikesh, this is the best place to witness the religious fervor that Rishikesh stands for. Try make it for the Arti ceremony every evening. And do not miss that soul-cleansing holy-dip.

Lakshman Jhoola (5 km): Search for Rishikesh in Google Images, and chances are 90% of them will be that of a suspended bridge, heavily roped. This is the famed Laxman Jhoola – a suspension bridge with iron ropes, named after Ram’s brother Lakshman, who crossed the river on a jute rope. The Raghunath temple and the Lakhman temples lie around this place, worth visiting.

Ram Jhoola (also called Shivanand Joola): A replica of the aforesaid, it leads to the Swargashram from the Shivanand Ashram, providing an alternative to the boat ride from one bank of Ganga to another.

Ashrams at Rishikesh: Fabled time and again, this remains a celebrated fact that the Beatles heralded their quest for spiritual salvation here at Maharishi Mahesh Yogi ashram. Shivanand Ashram (The Divine Society), towards the north of Rishikesh, and however the most famed for its Yoga and Meditation courses, lodging provision for backpackers and believers, charitable hospital and so on. Other prominent Ashrams are Omkarananda Ashram, Vanmali Gita Yogashram, Yoga Niketan Ashram, Dayananda Vedanta Ashram, Yoga Study Center and the Brahma Niwas.

Temples worth a visit: Bharat Mandir, Geeta Bhawan, Tera Manzil Temple.

International Yoga Week: Held every first week of February, you should not miss this event if your tour has coincided the celebration. Yoga maestros from across the globe and enthusiasts turn it into a different world altogether. Organized by the Rishikesh State Tourism, the event has yoga demonstrations, detailed lectures and seminars on Yoga.

How far can your legs dare: An excellent base camp for the treks in to Himalayas, especially to the Neelkanth from Swarg Ashram and to Kunjapuri Temple from Tapovan.

Rocking rapids: Sweet Sixteen (grade-1), Marine Drive (grade-2), Three Blind Mice (grade-3), Cross Fire (Grade-3), roller Coaster (grade-4) and Golf Course (grade-4). No they are not nicknames for beautiful schoolgirls. Adventurers with an water infatuation must have guessed already, while beginners can mug them up if they plan to dare the furious rapids at the 30 km Ganges that flows past Rishikesh right from the Himalayas.

Shopping

Here at Rishikesh, do not expect the razzle-dazzle of the usual Indian shops. All you have to load your bags with are ayurvedic and herbal medicines, religious items of made in brass, incense, bronze shiva statues, prasad and Rudraksh beads. The handicrafts on sale include those rich in beads, made of shells, pearls and wood. Visit UP Handlooms (en route to Haridwar), Khadi Bhandar or the Garhwal wool and craft shop for rugs and sheets.

The Laxman Jhula Area has many emporiums selling Rudraksh Malas, Navratna Mala, and silver Jwellery. Hunt for Jaipur Gems Center, one of the oldest and most reliable exporter of Rudraksh ,Gems studded silver and gold jewelery and pashmina Shawls. In the Ram Jhula Area, Geeta Press Cotton cloth Shop and Geeta Press Book Shop are best for buying locally wearable cotton and philosophical books respectively.

Cuisine

What you will not find in Rishikesh is non-vegetarian cuisine which is banned for obvious reasons – Rishikesh being an religious epicenter. All types and flavors of Indian cuisine is served in its myriad restaurants tucked in every nook and corner of its streets. The best bet for any foreigner, however, remains the Ayurvedic and health food restaurants, perfect for an after-yoga meal. In the main town area, check out Hotel Neelam that serves delectable Indian, and Italian dishes. In the Ram Jhula Area go to the Choti wala Restaurant for that unbeatable Indian ‘thali’, typically ‘Rishikeshised’. The Laxman Jhula Area’s Elachi Restaurent is a good bet for evenings. Do not miss this one called Chotiwala, lored to be the best one in Rishikesh.
Getaways

Kunjapuri (7,000 ft): Famed for its temple dedicated to one of the thirteen most important Goddesses of Shivalik range - Kunjapuri and the surrounding vista of Banderpunch (6316 mts) , Swarga Rohini (6252 mts) Gangotri ( 6672 mts) Chaukhamba (7138 mts) is too beautiful to be put into words.

Haridwar (24 km): Set on the foothills of Shivalik range, Haridwar is the gateway to Chardham (four pilgrimages - Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath) in the Uttarakhand region. Major attractions of the town are Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi Temple, Chanda Devi Temple, Sapt Rishi and Daksh Mahadev Temple. Besides, it is also one of the Shaktipeeths of the country.

Vashistha Cave (1-hr away): Meditate in this fine recluse where once sage Vasistha meditated. The ambience is still untarnished and perfect for soul-searching.

Valley of Flowers (16 kms away from Govindghat): There are places on earth you would have never believed to exist, until you see them. Valley of flowers, with its amazing floral diaspora of a zillion species and the rainbowed spectacle it presents, is one such place. A camera is a must-carry to this piece of little paradise up in the Himalayas.

Dehradun (43 kms): The tourist attractions of Dehradun are Tapkeshwar Temple, Sahastradhara, Dakpathar, Laxman Sidh, Asan Barrage and if you still aren’t amused, go there to have a look at what is called a Himalayan Beauty and for flights (it has an airport) to various destinations.

Location :
In the Garhwal Himalayas, Uttaranchal, North India

Go there for :
Yoga & Meditation Courses, Rafting, Treks

Altitude:
1,160 ft.

Climate :
41º-36.6ºC (Sum); 32.2º-18.3ºC (Win)

When to Go:
April to October

Local Tongue:
Hindi, Garhwali

Literacy :
65%

STD Code :
+91 - 135

LEH LADAKH HILL STATION - NORTH INDIA

2009-03-13T21:37:00.002+08:00

Ladakh - a slice of Tibet

Across the Kashmir Valley and over the famous Zoji La pass lies Ladakh the Himalayan kingdom of Ladakh, nestled between the world's highest mountain ranges - the Karakoram in the north-west, the Himalayas in the south-west and the Trans-Himalayas at its core. The Indus is the life-saving water-way that veins this high-altitude desert with a blazing sun and freezing wind. Leh, at an elevation of 3505 m, is the main city, and hence the appellation 'Leh-Ladakh'. The very road route to Ladakh is an adventure escapade.

Leaving the geographic brouhaha apart, Ladakh is about robed monks flocking about the undulating streets, brightly painted monasteries, hand-made wall-hangings in colorful woolen threads, and the aroma from the gurgling vessels of gurgur cha filling the air. And as adventurers reach sequestered Leh from their arduous expedition, a warmth seeps into their being inspite of the freezing weather. This is the magic of 'Little Tibet'!

Attractions

Leh Palace: The once nine storied 17th century Leh Palace, now in dilapidated state, rises from the edge of a hill and commands a breath-taking view of the entire locale. Above the palace, at the top of the Namgyal hill, is the Victory Tower, built to commemorate Ladakh's victory over the Balti Kashmir armies in the early 16th century.

Monastries

Monastries (gompas): These are the repositories of Buddhist religion and home to some thousands of monks. The 13th century Namgyal Tsemo Gompa (also called the Leh Gompa), with its paintings and a three-storey high seated Buddha image is beautiful, add to it the classic sweep of the entire valley that can be had once you are there. The residence of the head of the Gelukpa (yellow hat) order is the 17th century Sankar Gompa. The paintings in the main prayer hall are worth a dekko. To the west of Changspa, lies the large white stupa (commemorative cairn), Shanti Stupa, inaugurated by the Dalai Lama in the 1980s. This monument was conceived as part of a Japanese-inspired peace movement to spread Buddhism throughout the world. Needless to say, Ladakh is a revered name in the Buddhist world with a constant pilgrim bee-line, especially during festivals.

Hemis National Park: Situated 40 km SE of Leh on the bank of river Indus is the home to an exotic assemblage of cold desert fauna like the snow leopard, Tibetan wild or kiang, ibex, serow and Tibetan antelope.

Festivals: The gompa courtyards burst into a thousand hues during festivities. The biggest and most famous of the monastic festivals is that of Hemis monastery (Jun-July) dedicated to Padmasambhava (Guru Rimpoche), the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, when the resident Lamas perform ritualistic masked dances. Every 12 years, a magnificent embroidered silk thangka (tantric wall hanging) is displayed to the public; the next such unveiling takes place in June 2016, when the Year of the Monkey comes around again.
Adventure escapades: River rafting in the Indus and Zanskar rivers, mountaineering in the Great Himalayan Range, the Zanskar Mountains and the Karakoram Range are the raging favorites. The best trekking tracks are the 3 week trek from Indus Valley to Darcha (Lahoul), 10-day Markha Valley trek, the 11-day Lamayuru- Padum traverse, Hemis-Markha-Padum trek and the 4/5-day Stok-Khangri trek.

Shopping

Leh has superior quality woolen garments, hand-woven carpets with dragon motifs, rugs, wall-hangings and Pashmina shawls - the popular hunts in Ladakh. Tibetan handicrafts like prayer wheels, Buddhist masks and Thangka paintings. Traditional Ladakhi jewelry with turquoise carvings and Tibetan silver jewelry are sheer delight for connoisseurs. Packets of Ladakhi apricots make scrumptious souvenirs to gift away back home. Bargaining is not an alien concept, but at the govt. Emporiums the prices are fixed and considering the quality, one shouldn't really mind.

And the major locales are Tibetan Handicraft Emporium and Ladakh Art Palace on the Main Bazaar Rd., Cottage Industries Exposition and Women's Alliance in Changspa.

Cuisine

The tables here emanate the unmistakably refreshening aroma of boiled vegetables. Tibetan food mainly consists of Momos (dumplings stuffed with meat or vegetables) with fiery chilli sauce, Thukpas (a thick noodle soup with vegetables), Tsumpa (roasted barley flour, Ngampe in Ladakhi), Skyu (a heavy pasta dish with root vegetables), fresh breads with apricot jam and strong black tea flavored with butter and salt (gurgur cha). And if you have a taste for continental diet, you will love this version of boiled cuisine. The alcoholic beverage, Chang, made of fermented barley is considered heavenly, the succor to the taste buds and warmth to the body being the divine connection.

For traditional Tibetan food go to Himalaya Café, Shangri La for Korean cuisine, Budshah Inn for Chinese and Kashmiri cuisine, Dreamland Restaurant for Tibetan, Kashmiri, Indian and Italian food, Penguin Bar and Restaurant for fresh breads, Mentokling Restaurant for pizzas cooked over a traditional wood-fired oven and Pumpernickel German Bakery for lasagna and mini-meals.

Getaways
Nubra Valley: A 5-hour jeep drive over the world's highest motorable pass, Khardung-La (5,578m/18,000 ft.), leads to northern Ladakh's lush Nubra Valley, a fertile region with gompas, hot sulphur springs (at Panamik), and double-humped Bactrian camels. This route was a part of the legendary Silk Route used by caravans of traders operating between the Punjab and various regions within central Asia for many centuries. Rent a bike or hire a jeep and discover the off-the-beaten-track purlieus there. The Bactrian camel safari at the sand dunes in the Nubra valley is a must-dare!

Stok Palace: About 17 km from Leh, across from Choglamsar on the opposite side of the Indus is home to the 74th generation of the Namgyal dynasty - the Stock Palace (Open daily, May-Oct, 8am-7pm). The museum has an interesting collection of thangka, weapons, jewels and the queen's perak (a turquoise-studded headdress).

Monastery Circuit: All the monasteries fall on two routes and can be covered in two days. One is the route to Shey, Thikse, Stakna, Matio, Chembray, Tak Tok and Hemis. The other route leads out from the airport road and includes Spituk, Phyang, Likir, Alchi, Ridzong and Lamayuru. Inclusion of Lamayuru (125 km from Leh), in your itinerary makes it impossible to return to Leh the same day.

North of Leh, along the road to Srinigar are Phyang Gompa (16km from Leh), and 15th-century Spituk Gompa (8km from Leh), roosted on a rocky hill. Alchi (70km NW of Leh), along the left bank of the Indus, a short way off the Srinigar-Leh Rd. has is of the pilgrim hot-hubs with monasteries as old as 11th century.

The once majestic Shey Palace and Monastery (Open daily,May-Oct, 8am-7pm) is 15 km from Leh. The Thikse Gompa (Open daily,6am-6pm), 25km south of Leh, with its 12-story edifice all perched on a hilltop is an imposing spectacle.

Approaching the Tibet border, about 45 km from Leh is the Hemis Gompa, the wealthiest Ladakhi monastery. It bursts into a riot of colors during the Hemis Tsechu festival every summers in June and July.

Zanskar: A stark contrast to Ladakh's verdant valleys is Zanskar's treeless expanse - a trekker's delight. River rafting is possible from Serchu to Nyimu via Padam. Monasteries around Zanskar are Karsha (9 km), Stongde (20 km), Burdan (10 km), Zongkhu (20 km) and Phuktal (70 km).

The Drokpa Circuit: Banking the Indus near Khaltse, is the Drokhpa community of Aryan origin. Ethnically, linguistically, religion-culturally at variance from the rest of Ladakh and those in the surrounding villages, and this is what makes this locale worth a dekko.

Location :
Jammu & Kashmir, North India

Go there for :
Adventure sports, Buddhist Monasteries

Climate :
11°-26°C (Sum); Upto -30°C (Win)

When to Go:
Jun-Oct

Local Tongue:
Ladakhi, Urdu

Literacy:
24 %

STD Code :
+91 - 1982

PATNITOP HILL STATION - NORTH INDIA

2009-03-13T21:33:00.001+08:00

For new-weds

If solitude and altitude are your favorites, than label Patnitop, near the Jammu-Srinagar highway, as your next summer destination. Nature must have taken Her own sweet time to plot this dream retreat on a plateau 2024 m high, towering above the Chenab Gorge and looking up at Pir Panjal range. Trekking in the tall pine groves and fine skiing slopes make Patnitop an adventurers infatuation. Patnitop Tourism Authority has chalked a Tourist circuit that encompasses Jammu-Katra-VaishnoDeviji, Kud-Sanasar, Patnitop-Gourikund, Sudmahadev, Mantali, extending up to Latti-Dhuna.

Attractions

Adventure Sports : Come winters and the snow-fall at Patnitop beckons adventurers and honeymooners. January and February, is when skiing camps are thrown up here and there, banking on beginners and the exciting slope at Madhatop (5/6 km from Patnitop on Sanasar Road). Summers are best for trekking this 5 km hill-station. You can also hire ponies or drive about hunting for secluded picnic spots. An interesting one-day trek can be the one to Shiva Garh, about 11-km from Patnitop at an altitude of almost 3,500 meters. Trekking equipments can be hired from the tourism Dept. shops at Jammu and Kud. A newly introduced craze is Paragliding, popular in Sanasar and Jammu. Parasailing and Hotair ballooning are also coming up. Golf lovers can head for the 9-hole golf course at Sanasar.

Some must-visit spots : Chinar Garden, Picnic Spot, Skating Garden, the 6th century Nag Temple at Ishandhari, Sudh Mahadev ka Pahad (that has a holy trishul), the apple orchards and lemon and orange groves at Mantalai (where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati married) and the rest is for you to explore. The saffron fields, waterfalls and the high-altitude National Park of Kishtwar are other feast for the vision. Also consider visiting the 19th century Mubarak Mandi Palace with its Rajasthani, Mughal and Baroque European architecture and its delightful Sheesh Mahal.

Shopping

Patnitop might be quite a disappointment for shopaholics. Never mind, a few options still exist and that is better than none. From here you can pick some of the Kashmiri handicraft items and traditional specialties like namdas (embroidered wool carpets), pherans (embroidered long shirts) and woolens.
Cuisine

Other than the roadside dhabas (eatery), you will not really find free-standing restaurants at Patnitop. Diners are thus left with the only option of trying the various delicacies offered in their own Hotel dining lounges. At Vardaan Resorts, guest are feasted sumptuous buffet in the restaurant amidst a tranquil environ. The extensive a la carte menu offers tempting array of Indian and Chinese cuisine. Asia - The Oasis Resort’s multi cuisine dishes and authentic Kashmiri delights are famed.

Getaways

Sanasar (19 km): Carpeted green and laced with fir trees, Sanasar is a cone-shaped meadow, popular as ‘mini Gulmarg’ and excellent for adventure sports of a varied kind.

Jammu (112 km): Pilgrims will know why Jammu is a must-getaway after or before Patnitop. Famous as the ‘City of Temples’, Bahu Mata is the presiding deity of Jammu and the Dargah of Peer Budhan Ali Shah is the other shrine held sacred by Jammuites.

Vaishno Devi (80 km): The holy cave shrine of Vaishno Devi is located 61 km north of Jammu at a height of 5,200 ft in the Trikuta Mountains of the lower Himalayas. Pilgrimage treks up the hill from the base at Katra is raging popular for believers from across the globe.

Akhnoor (32 km west of Jammu): Famed for the legendary love-story of Sohni Mahiwal (in the lines of Romeo & Juliet), this historic town on the banks of the river Chenab still preserves ruins of the 2500 BC Indus valley civilization.

Location :
At 6640 ft, 112 km ahead of Jammu

Go there for :
Honeymooning, Skiing

Climate :
40°-5° C (Average)

When to Go:
All seasons beckon equally

Local Tongue:
Dogri, Hindi, Urdu, Kashmiri

STD Code :
+91 - 1992

DELHI - NORTH INDIA

2009-03-12T20:52:00.002+08:00

Delhi-India's potpourri

No other place qualifies so completely to deserve the sobriquet of 'The Capital City' as Delhi does! Delhi is made of everything that is India and vice-versa. The sixth most populous metropolis in the world (15.3 million/2005 census), Delhi is the melting pot of all Indian States and it remains a commendable absorbent even for those beyond the compass of the nation. The climate, however, may not be that inviting during the summers, but you have a choice of the milder seasons. The contrast of antiquity and modernization this land exudes is both curious and awesome.

The Tale of the city

Delhi is as old as 5000 BC. Staggering, isn't it? The earliest reference of Delhi was found in the Indian epic Mahabharata where it was the site of the Pandava capital Indraprashtha. A trail of dynasties 'came, saw, conquered' and left their imprints, viz. - Mauyras, Guptas, Rajputs, Afghans, Khiljis, Tughluq, Sayyids, Lodhis and lastly the Mughals to be finally overthrown by the British. It was, however, the Mughals who ruled India for over three centuries, that Delhi dazzles as an architect's archipelago. Over 60,000 historical remains echoing different ages of the past make Delhi a historians apple-pie.

Attractions

Old Delhi : The Mughals and Indian heritage seem to entwined that it would be nearing blasphemy to refer to them as mere conquerors. Old Delhi, an erstwhile walled city, Shahjahanabad, of Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan, actually seems like a piece of history sliced out and preserved, while the rest of the world marched ahead. The royal palace at the Red-Fort or the Lal Quila, named after its red-sandstone facade, the Jama Masjid (world's largest mosque) and the congested sprawl of Chandni Chowk, where the royalty once shopped about, the railway station with red-turban coolies flocking about - make Old Delhi (Purani Dilli) what it is. A befitting location indeed for the Indian Prime Ministers to pulsate the very air with his Independence Day speech from the premises of the Red Fort.

Purana Quila : The river Yamuna meanders along this vintage mile-long fort partly built by Mughal Emperor Humayun and by Sher Shah Suri. The notable buildings sheltered within are the Sher Mandal (Humayun's library) and the 16th century Quila-I-kholina Mosque (a landmark in Indo Islamic architecture).

The Qutub Minar : Its 72.5 meters (237.8 ft) makes it the tallest brick minaret in the world. Delhi's first Muslim ruler Qutb-ud-din Aibak wanted a replicate of Afghanistan's Minaret of Jam or even better. The walls have intricate carvings of verses from Quran.

India Gate : It is majestic 42 meters high arched gateway look-a-alike built as a memorial to the Indian soldiers killed in the World War I. India Gate, today has become synonymous with weekend family picnic-spot.

Akshardham Temple: Flanking the banks of river Yamuna, is this 2 billion architectural grandeur - an initiative of the Bochasanvasi Aksharpurushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS). A fine blend of faith and technology, Akshardham temple complex is replete with a majestic 11 ft statue of Lord Swaminarayan, 20000 other statues, an IMAX theater, artificial lakes and an elaborate musical fountain.

Lotus temple :A piquant lotus-shaped insignia of the Bahai faith, its quietude is a stark contrast to the bustling purlieu of Kalkaji where it stands. The Lotus temple is the meditative refuge that draws people from across the globe irrespective of creed and community

Birla Mandir: Embellished with statues, shrines, waterfalls, gardens and an ambiance so peaceful in spite of the tourists that throng the place. Janmasthami (Lord Krishna's birthday) is when you should tune your trip if you want to partake in its festive uproar.

Rashtrapati Bhavan : Where Indian President lives! The erstwhile residence of the Viceroy of India during the British Raj and designed by British architect Edwin Lutyens (who also laid the design for New Delhi), the Parliament House is larger than the Palace of Versailles. The plush Mughal Gardens, a Lutyenian replica of its counterpart in Kashmir, appositely adorn the House with its fantastic fountains, paved pathways, ornamental plants and of course a metropolis of most fantastic flowers.

The Art Galleries and Museums : Come and witness the India filtered through some of the more sensitive Indians. The India International Center (Max Muller Marg), Delhi Art Gallery (Hauz Khas Village), National Gallery of Modern Art (near India Gate) are the best picks amongst others. The Crafts Museum (Indian crafts, wooden Carvings, metal ware, paintings), Doll Museum (one of the largest collection of costume dolls from all over the world), National Rail Museum (tracks the genesis of Indian Railway), National Museum (pre-historic archeology, jewelery, paintings, manuscripts, Central Asian antiquities, arms and armor) - mouth watering historians

Shopping

The markets here are a melting-pot of everything found just anywhere in India. A grand spread neighboring the Old Delhi Railway Station, Chandni Chowk's crowded lanes, famous sweet shops of yore, the tourists visiting Jama Masjid and Lal Quila (Red Fort) - give it that 'just Dilli' air. Go there, but with some Indian friend or a guide, and shop just anything Indian in very reasonable rates.

In central Delhi, Connaught Place (tall pillared corridors and branded show-rooms) and Janpath (antique Indian souvenirs) are the must-go's. Also check out the different state's Government emporiums here for indigenous buys.

Other popular shopping arcades are Karol Bagh Market (in West Delhi,one of the largest in Asia), Kamla Nagar Market (North Campus), South Extension (close to the Embassies), Central Market (Lajpat Nagar), GK II M-block Market, Sarojini Nagar Market (the cheapest in Delhi) and Dilli Haat (a confluence of wares from all Indian States). Some very Indian brand-chains you should check out are - Fabindia, Anokhi, Kurta Palace, Nalli, Tantra, People Tree and so on.

Cuisines

Punjabbi khana (food from Punjab), tandoori chicken (roasted chicken), lassi (yogurt shake), chaat (savory snacks) of a hundred kinds, kulfi faluda (ice-cream cousin), kebabs (grilled meat) and biryani (a rich dish) - Dilli is synonymous with these for a well-versed gourmet.

For the best Mughal cuisines (kebabs, biryani, korma) go to Karims at Old Delhi and Nizamuddin where recipes date back to the days of the royalty or the Great Kaban Factory (Radisson). Hunt for Punjabi delights at Punjabi by Nature and Khaja Chowk (both at PVR Priya Complex), Bukhara (Maurya Sheraton), Delhi Ka Aangan (Hyatt Regency), Darbar (Ashoka Hotel) and Corbetts (Claridges). And Dilli Haat is the place where you can taste a flavor each of all Indian States.

Speciality hubs are a blessing and the noted ones are - EI Arab (at Regal Building); Dum Pukht (Maurya Sheraton); Kashmiri food at Chor Bizarre (Hotel Broadway); Thai food at Baan Thai (The Oberoi) and Sukothai (Hauz Khas Village); Japenese food at Tokyo (Ashoka Hotel) and Osaka (Hauz Khas Village); Chinese at I-Ching (Radisson), Tibetan food at eateries near Chanakya Theater; South Indian at the Sagar Ratna joints and Coconut Grove (Ashok Yatri Niwas); and Mexican food at Rodeo (Connaught Place).

Weekend Gateways

Delhi is veritably positioned and it initiates the Tourism industry highest-traffic zone, the Golden Triangle, i.e. Delhi - Jaipur - Agra.

Forts: Prithviraj Chauhan III's 15th century Neemrana Fort Palace is about 133 km SW of Delhi (just off the Jaipur highway). It is a resort now and a classic energizer for the city-sick metropolis. The 14th century Kesroli Fort is 155 km south of Delhi and situated atop the rare, dark Hornstone Breccia Rocks with ramparts 200 ft high, from where the eyes can sweep the entire locale. From Kesroli you can head for the neighboring palaces, museums and sanctuaries at Alwar, Sariska and Siliserh.

Surajkund (Haryana): Situated on the Delhi-Faridabad highway (opposite Tughlaqabad Fort), this sequestered hamlet nestled amongst the rocky outcrops of the Aravalli hills, is famed for its annual Crafts Mela (fair) held 1st to 15th February every year. The ancient tank, the amphitheater, the Surya Temple, the folk theatre and rustic performances during the fair, are tourist interests here.

Sultanpur (Gurgaon, Haryana): Located 46 km from Delhi, is this petite bird sanctuary. A former Salim Ali (famous Indian Ornithologist) haunt, the jheel (shallow lake) serpenting Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary takes on a multi-colored hue with migratory avian guests every November-December. Some exciting staying options are the Banjara Camps (with bonfires, adventure sports, jungle strolls), and farm-houses like the Kalki Mystic (with poultry farms, open fields, stress management programs), Golden Creeper (outdoor games - volleyball, hurdles race, horse, bullock cart, camel rides, treasure hunts), Great Escape (terracotta-red contrasted with lush rose lawns, poultry and a stud farm, carts, camels, horses to ride, puppet shows) and so on.

Kurukshetra (Haryana): The site for the Hindu mythological war of with the 'Kurukshetra Lake' is only 3 ½ hr drive away from Delhi.

Location :
North India

Go there for :
India in a capsule

Climate :
25°-44°C (Sum); 2°-16°C (Win/Dec-Jan)

When to Go:
Oct-Mar

Local Tongue:
Hindi

Literacy :
81.67%

STD Code :
011

DALHOUSIE HILL STATION - NORTH INDIA

2009-03-12T20:42:00.002+08:00

A walk in Eden

Carpeted on the crest of five hills on the western edge of the Dhauladhar Range is gift from the once Governor General Lord Dalhousie to the State of Himachal Pradesh. And what a gift at 6678 ft! Unlike the Shimlas and Darjeelings, Dalhousie still maintains to give her visitors that cloistered and cut-off-from-the-world impression, for that complete weekend rejuvenation. Very British in look and feel, Dalhousie is as small as your legs can encompass and as vast as your eyes can sweep. Trek the forests, pray in its churches, dance under its waterfalls, discover little villages, snooze under the blue sky, write a poem or propose marriage to your beloved, this piece of Eden is just perfect to unwind the bohemian in all of us. The greatest activity in Dalhousie is on and around the three level Malls which were laid in the early 1860s for promenades, carriages, horses, dandies, etc. these roads and the steeper by-lanes which connect them to the bus-stand are still the arteries of the town.

Attractions

Walk as far as legs can take : The five quaint towns, etched at an elevation of 5,000 feet to 7,800 feet, are as interesting as their tongue twisting names (Kathloang, Tehra, Bakrota, Potreyn and Balun). The five stately churches (the main being Catholic Church Of St. Francis at Mall road end), the Thandi and Garam sadaks (roads), the Mall road, Gandhi Chowks and Subhash Chowks are best explored on foot.

Woodlands beckon : Drive or trek up the winding 10-km, cedar forested route to the hilltop Kala-Tope from where you can have that hallucinating view of Pir Panjal mountains. On the way, set amidst thick forest is the small temple of Bhulwani Mata, in the village of Ahla. A fair is celebrated in July to venerate the goddess.

Little Tibet : Just 3 km off Gandhi Chowk is Himachal’s oldest Tibetan settlement, mostly visited for its handicrafts center from where you can pick varied Tibetan bric-a-brac as souvenirs.

Jandhri Ghat : Nearby Subhash Baoli is the elegant Chamba palace fringed by tall pine trees, with tiny streamlets gushing by. Go there if you have a whole day to spend picnicking.

Satdhara : As you head to Panjpulla, at an altitude of 2,036m. (6,678 ft), the sound of gurgling streams amidst that beatific locale will freeze you on your tracks. The waters of the seven tiny streams here is lored to have great therapeutic value. And you are done early, you can try the 2.5 km trek by the stream to Alah Water Reservoir on Bakrota Hill and then walk back to town.

Chamera Dam : At Banikhet is the once British race-course and some 8-km away is the Chamera Dam, locally nicknamed Bhadrakali Lake, with its rock-littered slope called Devi Dehra. Picnic here and head for Chamba.

Dainkund (at 2745m): About 10 km from the town, this tall peak affords a sweeping view of the hills, valleys and the river Beas, Ravi and the Chenab threading their silvery way down to the plains.

Shopping

Dalhousie shopping will consist of Tibetan curios, unless you explore and discover something totally out-of-place and unique. The town has so many undiscovered corners that chances are your hunt will be successful. For Buddhist paintings, woolens, trinkets, variety of copper and silver diyas, try the Tibetan Market at Gandhi Chowk. The Himachal Handloom Crafts Center on Potreyn Road has wonderful Chamba and Kullu shawls. For antiques, look for DC Khanna store on the Potreyn Loop. Tibetan Handicraft Center has excellent carpets that can be bought at reasonable rates.

Cuisine

For elaborate meals, your Hotel restaurants are the best bet. For quick bites, you can try the roadside dhabas that you will find in plenty at Dalhousie, especially about Gandhi Chowk or the Bus Stand. Amritsari, Sharma’s Dhaba, Sher-e-Punjab and the Royal Dhaba (on Court Road) are definitely worth checking out. Restaurant Preet Palace on Subhash Chowk offers Mughlai, Kashmiri and Chinese cuisine at reasonable prices. Moti Mahal, New Metro and Lovely are some of the other restaurants you could try. Kwality Restaurant on Gandhi Chowk is very popular too while Snow Lion near the bus stand does good Tibetan food.
Snippets

Though seemingly tucked away from the tourist humdrum, Dalhousie has been an old-time tourist favorite. Some of the distinguished personalities like Ravinder Nath Tagore, Subhash chander Bose and Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru visited Dalhousie in their formative period to immerse themselves in the leisurely quiet of this hill station and came back rejuvenated.

Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru (former Indian PM) on Dalhousie: “One of the finest hill station...It is not flashy...and there are few amusements… for my part, I would rather go to Dalhousie than almost any hill station in India, Kashmir apart…”.

As Shimla finds its focus in the mall, in Dalhousie action gravitates in the evening to the G.P.O. which presents a riot of colors and activity.

Getaways

Khajjiar (27 km): At 6,430 ft is this once saucer-shaped British golf-course, whose golden-domed temple dedicated to Khajinag, attracts neighboring believers. Go there for horse-rides, day-treks to Dharamshala, and overnight at the HPTDC cottages.

Location :
In Himachal Pradesh, between Dhauladhar & Pirpanjal range

Go there for :
Languid strolls, Nature at its best

Altitude :
6678 ft

Climate :
Upto 30°C (Sum); upto 0°C (Win)

When to Go:
Best all round the year

Literacy:
81%

STD Code :
+91 - 1899

NAINITAL - NORTH INDIA

2009-03-12T20:32:00.002+08:00

Nainital - enigma for vision

At an elevation of 6,350 ft (1938 m), Nainital is one of the loveliest of Kumaoni hill stations in the North Indian state of Uttaranchal. Way back in 1841, it so seduced the Briton, Mr. Baron that he construed a house called the Pilgrim's Cottage and gradually beckoned the world to behold at his quintessential new discovery and the rest is history. This erstwhile summer retreat of the colonial kingpins is now ranked amongst the best of vacationing destinations in India. This 'lake district' was once home to wildlife conservationist and man-eating-tiger hunter Jim Corbett, whose escapades and travelogues are still reiterated with pride. The Corbett National Park and the legion of lakes - Bhim Tal, Sat Tal, Naukuchia Tal and, of course, Naini - are Nainital's jeweled attractions.

Attractions

Naini Lake: Nainital was once brindled with about 60 lakes and was called 'Chakta'. A legend goes that after Sati committed suicide, her dazed husband Lord Shiva went about carrying her body and her eye happened to fall near a lake. The spot is commemorated with the Naina (means 'eye') Devi temple, and needless to say, the lake is the pristine Naini lake whose waters are still considered holy.

Naina Peak (or Cheena peak): At 8566 ft (2611m), Nainital's highest peak stands overlooking the beautiful eye-shaped Naini lake. The young and energetic can hike up the 6 km from the north-end of the town (Mallital) and for those who dare not, ponies can be hired in Mallital or on Snow View. But miss-it you should not!

Land's End: About 4 km away from the town center and perched at 9,452 ft. (2881 m) on the southern border of the lake, this hill affords a quintessential view of another lake, Khurpa Tal and of course of the entire Nainital.

Astronomical Observatory: The telescopes and binoculars set up near Hanuman Garh for those jaw-slacking views of the valley.

Snow View: The best and the most adventurous way to head for this curio at a supreme 7447 ft. (2,270 m) is to take the motorable cable-car from Mallital. It is the perfect vantage point for those breath-taking views. Some believe Muse sits there, for after the trip one is full of poetry and elated diction.

Adventure trails: Horse riding at the Mall and to reach roof-top joints like the Snow View Point, Tiffin top, Kilburi from the Mallital area. Boating cruises on the Naini Lake, treks in the verdant hill and the aforesaid cable-car ropeway offers some lip-smacking options perfect for sunny afternoons. Equipments for mountaineering and trekking can be hired from the Nainital Mountaineering Club and Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam. For angling and fishing, permits needs to arranged from different Govt. Centers. One can also hire yacht from the Yacht Club at Mallital.

Festivals: Come September and the quiet town throbs with tourists and pilgrims coming to attend the Nanda Devi Fair and watch the various cultural shows. Vasantotsav, held during Jan-Feb at Ramnagar - the Gateway to Jim Corbett National Park, for obvious reasons, attracts more tourists and cultural fiesta from the Garhwal and the Kumaon hills is showcased.

Shopping

The main shopping promenade is the Mall, which, along with Mallital, is good for wooden stuff and decorative candles. Also check out the Tallital bazaars and the Tibetan market for woolens, cane items and local handicrafts. The best one to head if you have a knack for collecting endemic products, is the Hill Top Tourist Point or Kasta Kala Kendra Collection.

Cuisine

Nainital doesn't have an authentic cuisine, but offers a wide-ranging variety of Indian and continental food. Most restaurants are located on either of the Malls, typically visited by tourists. Marino, at Tallital, is known for its vegetarian thalis, Embassy (Mallital), serves safe and trusty Mughlai food and Sakley's (Mallital) is known for its sumptuous continental dishes.

Getaways

Corbett National Park (63 km SW): Established in 1936 by Jim Corbett, among others, this national park is Himalayan India's last expanse of wilderness. For wildlife enthusiasts, the place to stay is Dhikala, the KMVN accommodation. From here you can head into the forest on an elephant or jeep safari. The park is closed from mid-June to mid-November.

Sattal (23 km): Literally meaning seven lakes, is a group of small lakes nested together, at an altitude of 1370 m. A spot less explored, this is where you must head for the solitude you so much need to cherish the bounty of nature.

Ramgarh (26 km): Located 26 km from Nainital, Ramgarh is surrounded by fruit orchards, especially apples.

Mukhteshwar (52 km NE): At 2286 m or 7,500 ft, it provides some eye-warming view of the Himalayas, especially of Trisul and Nanda Devi peaks. There is an All India Research Center for Animal Treatment here. For those interested in history, you must visit the PWD guest house at the end of the ridge where Jim Corbett once lodged when he came to shoot the man-eater of Mukhteshwar.

Bhimtal (22km): This lake, which is larger than Naini Lake, at an altitude of 1370 m has an island with a popular restaurant on it. There is also a 17th century temple complex, the Bhimeshwar, alongside a 40 ft high dam at one end of the lake. Tourist buses for Bhimtal leave Nainital at regular intervals.

Ranikhet (60 km): A sheer beauty at 1829 ft., its beautiful pine trees, orchards, the temples, create a feeling of nostalgia and followed by an heart-ache when you turn to leave.

Location :
In Kumaon hills, Uttaranchal

Go there for :
Lakes, Corbett National Park

Climate :
11°-27°C (Sum); 2°-16°C (Win)

When to Go:
Mar-Jun, mid-Sep to October

Local Tongue:
Kumaoni, Garhwali, Hindi

STD Code :
+91 - 5942

ALMORA HILL STATIONS

2009-03-12T20:16:00.002+08:00

Bells in the Mist

Once called Rajpur (the Land of the Kings), Almora is nestled over a horse saddle shaped ridge of the Uttranchal mountains. Unlike, the once summer-retreats of our erstwhile British colonizers, Almora is down-to-the-core Indian hill beauty, which has very covetedly preserved her cultural past amidst the tourist and pilgrim hum-drum. The temple of Goddess Nanda Devi located right in the center of the town, the Durga temples at Doonagiri, Harikhan Temple (4 km from Ranikhet), Chitai Temple (6 km from Almora) lend Almora its religious edge and make it the cultural heartland of Kumaon. Quaint hill resorts such as Chaukori, Ranikhet, Sitlakhet, Binsar, Kausani and Bageshwar further add to vacationers love for Almora. The eastern portion of the ridge is known as Talifat and the western one is known as Selifat. The market is at the top of the ridge where these two, Talifat and Selifat jointly terminate. For the celestial mountain sunsets head some 2 km further to Bright End Corner.

Attractions

The Mall : If you are thinking Is there the Mall in every Indian hill station,well, coincidently, there’s one in most of them and this undoubtedly is the main promenade where the pedestrian traffic squat about the shops. That is to say, the Mall is where to hub is. Overlooking the Mall is the Nanda Devi shrine built in typical Kumaoni style of stone temple architecture. The Nanda Devi festival in the month of August has the whole area resonating with cultural performances at the temple.

Govind Vallabh Pant Public Museum : Houses archaeological finds from the Katyur and Chand periods, a collection of apen or folk paintings and other remains of Kumaoni art, culture and history. (Open: 10:30 am till 04:30 pm. on all days except Monday).

Deer Park : Some 3 km from Almora is this interesting reserve that houses many deer species, leopards and the Himalayan black bear amidst tall pine groves. Another quick getaway in the forested hills is Simtola, about 3 km from Almora.

No one can trek just once : Almora is a trekker’s haven. Some of the most popular trekking routes with base camp at Almora are Almora (1638 m)--Shitalakhet (1828 m)--Ranikhet (1829 m), Almora--Pandhar--Jalna--Lamgarha--Saharphatak--Mornaula, Almora--Qarab--Mukteshat, Almora--Barechhina-Pannwanaula--Artola--Jageshwar, Almora (1638 m)--Kappharkhan--Biasar ( 2412 m). And with Kausani (Mahatma Gandhiji's staging point in 1929) as base, you can trek these routes: Kausani - Garur - Baijnath - Bageshwar, Kausani - Garur - Baijnath - Gwaldham, Kausani - Chhota Pinath - Bara Pinath.

Almorian memories : Right from the saint Swami Vivekananda, Nobel Prize winning poet and freedom fighter Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, First Indian PM Jawahar Lal Nehru, great dancer Udaya Shankar, musician Ravi Shankar, Bollywood actor of yore Guru Dutt - all have found their share of paradise and replenishment in the pine forests and serene breeze of Almora.

Shopping

Almora is definitely not a shopper’s paradise but its local handicraft items are unique and must-buys if you are holidaying there. The Woollens at Showroom Mall Road and Copper Works at Tamta Mohalla are the most famous Almora handicraft buys. The Almora women are excellent weavers and most of the woolens in the neighboring Nainital shopping hubs are exported from here. A special breed of Rabbit, Angora, produces this wool which is extremely soft, fine and very warm. The Garud Woollens of the Kumaon Schedule Tribe Development Corporation at Shikhar Hotel compound also has good priced woolens. For Bronze and Brass wares and decorative items you can hunt about in shops at Lal Bazaar and Chowk Bazaar.

Cuisine

Woolens apart, Almora’s other pride of place are sweets, especially the Singora and Bal Mithaiare. Glory Restaurant (The Mall, across the Madras Cafe) is a very good vegetarian place with Indian and Continental food. Mount View Restaurant, in the Hotel Shikhar, Swagar Restaurant (next to the Hotel Shikar), Soni Dhaba (at The Mall bus stand) are names gourmets should mug-up.

Snippets

Appetizing Quotes on Almora :
“In these hills, nature’s hospitality eclipses all men can ever do. The enchanting beauties of the Himalayas, their bracing climate and the soothing green that envelopes you leaves nothing more to be desired. I wonder whether the scenery of these hills and the climate are to be surpassed, if equaled, by any of the beauty spots of the world. After having been nearly three weeks in Almora Hills, I am more than ever amazed why our people need go in Europe in search of health.” -- Mahatama M.K. Gandhi

“These mountains are associated with the best memories of our race: Here, therefore, must be one of centers, not merely of activity, but more of calmness of meditation, and of peace and I hope some one to realize it.” -- Swami Vivekananda

Hollywood connection : The popular Hollywood star, Uma Thurman (of Kill Bill fame) spent considerable period of her childhood at Almora and being devout Buddhists, the Dalai Lama used to be one of their notable guests.

Getaways

Kasauni (51 km): The Katyur Valley, the picturesque hills, Mahatma Gandhi’s Anakshakti Ashram and the innumerable treks make Kasauni more than a part of the Almora vacationers itinerary. Pinnath (10 km), Bura Pinnath (5 km) and Bhakot are the highest points near Kausani.

Binsar Hills (30 km): Binsar hill, locally known as Jhandi Dhar, rises to a height of 2,412 m and plays a host to some of the most enchanting wildlife like the Panther and Barking Deer in its little wildlife sanctuary. A temple legend there threatens - should anyone take away anything belonging to the God or his worshippers and avenging spirit and compels him conscience stricken to restore it twenty fold.

Bageshwer (90 km): Situated at the confluence of the rivers Saryu and Gomti, every January Bageshwar hosts the famous Uttaraini fair. Visit its temples or explore the glaciers of Sunderdunga, Kafni and Pindari near Bageshwar.

Ranikhet (50 km): Ask an Indian army man and he will tell you, with pride, the lores of Ranikhet. Officially, this is where the prestigious Kumaun Regiment of Indian Army has its center. The Kumaun Regimental museum and amicably maintained green golf course are sites of interest for vacationers. From here, some 4 km away is Chaubatiya gardens famous for their sprawling orchards of delicious apples, plums, peaches and apricots. In and around Ranikhet there are some famous temples of the Hindus for religious minded like Jhoola Devi Mandir, Ram Mandir, Herakhan Mandir, Kalika Temple and Binsar Mahadeva.

Katarmal (17 km): Famous for the 800 years temple dedicated to the Sun God. The only other temple in India dedicated to Sun is the Konark temple in Puri at Orissa.

Patal Bhubneshwer(110 km): As you travel from Almora towards Gangolihat, in Pithoragarh district the underground cave of Patal Bhubneshwer beckons with its 40 m vertical tunnel shaped path. After reaching at the bottom, the main passage opens into several small horizontal caves, out of which the longest accessible cave is 120 meters horizontal in length. What interests the vision most is the mysterious natural carving of many animals, Gods and Goddesses inside the cave.

Location :
71 km North of Nainital, Uttaranchal

Go there for :
Treks, Temples, Woolens

Altitude :
1646 meters (5400feet)

Climate :
25-29°C (Sum); 8-14°C (Win)

When to Go:
April - June; September - November

Local Tongue:
Hindi, English & Kumaoni

STD Code :
+91 - 5962

UDAIPUR - NORTH INDIA

2009-03-12T20:06:00.002+08:00

Udaipur - of antique palaces

Yet another palatial city of Rajasthan, but like each one of them, this one too is painted in its own unique hue. The lakes are what gives Udaipur its claim to fame, other then the sprawling Forts and Palaces. And overnighting at an ex-palace and waking up to the chirping of some hundreds of migratory birds - varied and colorful - can be quiet an experience, isn't it? The finery of craftsmanship of Mewar (the Mewar School of Miniature Painting), add another stash of glory to this already proud Rajputana tourist-hub.

Tale of the City

Founded by Maharana Udai Singh in 1568, Udaipur is considered the jewel of Mewar. The Maharana of Udaipur is the highest ranked amongst Rajput rulers and is the head of the Suryavanshi (Solar) Rajput clan. It is also called the City of Sunrise and the Maharana's standard bears an image of the sun.

Attractions

City Palace: Towering over a serene lake Pichola is one of the most magnificent of Rajasthani palaces built in parts by its legendary Maharana kings, yet exuding a strange uniformity of structure. Today City Palace, as it is called, with with elegantly carved arches, cupolas, romantic balconies, is a regal Heritage Resort. The inhouse Museum has many treats to the vision - the Mor Chowk with its beautiful blue peacock mosaics, the Manak or Ruby Mahal has figures made in glass and porcelain, Krishna Vilas and Zanana Mahal has beautiful paintings and miniatures, Bari Mahal is known for its eclectic garden and the princely Chini Mahal is covered with ornamental tiles.

Lake Pichola: Udaipur's glittering necklace, 4 km long, is the Pichola lake. And like two pretty pendants are studded two palaces on the lake island - Jagniwas and Jagmandir. Jagniwas, now a Heritage Hotel, was the erstwhile summer retreat of prince of Mewar. While Jagmandir was constructed by Maharana Karan Singh to provide refuge to Shah Jehan, the reason being the latter was born of a Rajput mother. It is believed that this palace also provided some inspiration for the Prince's magna carta Taj Mahal. On the east bank is embellished the City Palace and a sprawling garden. A boat ride to the islands is undulating fun.

Jagdish Temple: Neighboring the City Palace is this classic Indo-Aryan shrine of Lord Vishnu, worshiped in a black-marbled image as Lord Jagannath.

Fateh Prakash Palace: An oriental beauty, preserved since the legacy of Maharana Fateh Singh, is this heritage palace-turned-hotel. The reflection of its magnificent turrets in the quiet waters of Fateh Sagar lake as you take a boat ride to the little island with a garden, creates an euphoria beyond words. The cafetaria at the island, serves excellent coffee.

Pratap Samak: The statue of Rajput demigod Maharana Pratap, who held the reigns of his homeland against the Mughals, stands proud atop the Moti Magri or the Pearl Hill, overlooking the Fateh Sagar Lake. Do drop by the interesting Japanese rock garden as you climb uphill.

Bharatiya Lok Kala (Udaipur Folk Museum): Here is where lies the virtual kaleidoscope to the heritage of this princely Rajput city. Look out for paintings, dolls, masks, musical instruments, dresses and the puppet show held almost regularly.
Shilpgram: The literal meaning is the Craftsmen's village and true to its name it is an archipelago of crafts from various Indian states like Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat and of course, Rajasthan. However this ethnic village is is earmarked for its exquisite terracotta work mainly in dark red and dark brown and its wooden carvings. The 26 huts set amidst a sprawling 70 acres bordered by the Aravalli hills add a slush of panoramic beauty to this otherwise shopping joint.

Festivals of Udaipur: The Mewar Festival is celebrated to welcome the advent of spring every March at Udaipur. Co-inciding with the festival of Gangaur, celebrated all over Rajasthan, Mewar Festival is when a procession of chariots carrying idols of the goddess, embellished elephants, camels and men on horseback, women decked up in their best attires, all march their way through the streets of Udaipur to the Gangaur Ghat at Lake Pichhola. The idols are then set adrift the decorated boats at the Lake. And the vista of these boats, with idols, flowers and lights, floating across the pristine lake, create ‘magic’ for the spectators.

Shopping

Ladling your bags with local crafts is sine qua non for tourists visiting Udaipur. Wooden folk puppets, tie-and-dye sarees, enamel or Meenakari work, colorful turbans, hand painted fabrics, silver jewelery, wall hangings and miniature paintings in Rajput style are the tourist favorites. Chetak Circle, Clock Tower, Hathi Pol, Palace Road and the City Market are some of the best places to go shop-hunting. The shopping festival at Shilpgram, the craft village (mid-December) is not to be missed incase you are there during that season.

Rajasthali (Chetak Circle) the government-run handicraft shop, is a good place to both pick up basic handicrafts for fair prices. Mangalam (Sukhadia Circle) is best for textiles, handicrafts, dhurries (rugs), while at the City Palace Museum shop buy pichhwai paintings (wall hangings painted on cloth or silk, often featuring scenes from Lord Krishna's life). For some quality paintings consider visiting four-time national award winner Kamal Sharma (15A, New Colony, Kalaji-Goraji). Jagdish Emporium on City Palace Road has traditional Udaipur (and Gujarati) embroidery items.

Cuisine

Indian delicacies you should not miss here are the vegetarian delicacies like paneer do pyaja (cheese cooked with onion, tomato and chilies), matar paneer (Indian cheese curry with peas and tomatoes) and traditional non-vegerarian favorites like Afghani murgh malai tikka (creamy chicken kebabs) and the famed fish a la Jagat (local freshwater fish from Jaisamand Lake cooked in a lemon sauce and served with chips).

The Lake Palace Hotel, Udaivilas's Suryamahal and Udaimahal (Udaimahal open for dinner only) sum up for the royal traditional palates. Ambrai (beyond Lake Pichola Hotel), Natural View (atop the Evergreen Guest House), Cafe Hill Park (SW of Sajjan Niwas gardens), 16 Chef Restaurant (16 Gyan Marg) serve good multi-cuisine.
Getaways

Eklingi (22 km): A little hamlet that has shot to fame in the Hindu pilgrimage map with some of the most ancient temples. The 734 AD Shiva temple with the four-faced image of the lord in black marble looks ethereal. At Nagada, a km before Eklingi, there a flock of three old temples. The Sas Bahu ('Mother and Daughter in-law') temple is as interesting as its name.

Haldighati (40 km): This is where the iconic Maharana Pratap on his charger Chetak, defeated the Mughal forces of Akbar in 1576. The chhatri (umbrella-shaped cenopath) of Chetak, the loyal war-horse, makes this destination an attraction of a different kind.

Nathdwara (48 km): The temple enshrining the black stone image of Lord Vishnu here, as per a legend, sunk into the ground when attempts were being made to move it.

Kumbalgarh Fort (84 km): Ranked next to Chittorgarh, this is one must-see fort with a plethora of palaces and temples within its impregnable ramparts. Check out the horse/jeep safaris from here.

Deogarh (135 km): On the Udaipur-Jodhpur road is this grand castle turned hotel. The interiors are simply fascinating with dexterous carvings.

Jaisamand Lake (48 km): This is one of Asia's largest artificial lakes made during the 17th Century by Maharaja Jai Singh. With the marbled cenopaths around, the locale looks beautiful - just right for your photographing spree.

Location :
Southern Rajasthan

Go there for :
Palaces, Lakes, Museums

Climate :
28.8°-38.3°C (Sum); 11.6°-28.3°C (Win)

When to Go:
Sep-Mar

Local Tongue:
Marwari, Hindi

Literacy :
59.26%

STD Code :
+91 - 294

KHAJURAHO - NORTH INDIA

2009-03-12T19:56:00.003+08:00

The very mention of Khajuraho, springs to mind a world of sculpted temples, cloistered covetously in the jungles of Madhya Pradesh. The 85 odd temples, dedicated to different Hindu deities, built during the 950-1050 AD by the Chandela kings, boggle the mind and their sight, belies the vision - because their maverick sculptures still seem too bold for what India seemingly portrays to be. The place still exudes that eerie quaintness, but amidst curious tourists, speckled archaeologists, the Taj Groups luxury lodges, the trinkets of the dancing maestros (Dance Festival every March), Khajuraho seems alien to its own gods.

Tale of the City

The town continued its religious importance until the 14th century, when it began to wade, perhaps under the Islamic influence. It was only in 1838, that a British army captain rediscovered this forgotten treasure trove and UNESCO followed suit by branding it a World Heritage Site about a century hence.

The Chandelas believed in the Tantric Cult which propounds that gratification of earthly desires is a step towards attaining the ultimate liberation. Tantrism as well as the expression of so-called erotica in the sculptures is often misunderstood. Whatever, be the debate and the conclusion, what interests us is the fact that their beliefs gave the world some of the inimitable expressions in stone.

Attractions

Temples

The Khajuraho temples are famed for their sculptural embellishments (minus the brouhaha over the eroticism of their postures). Their genesis dates back to the period of the Chandela dynasty which survived for five centuries before giving in to the Islamic onslaught. For the convenience of research, the locale has been sliced into three geographical sections - Western, Eastern and Southern groups.

Khajuraho Temple

The Western Group: Undeniably the best and most sensuous sculptures belong to this group. The baritone voice of Amitabh Bachhan, arguably India's most popular screen icon, narrates the fascinating history of Khajuraho for the 50-minute sound-and-light show held here every evening at 6:30pm.

The temples here include:

Lakshmi and Varaha Temple: Are two small shrines and the latter has a huge beautifully carved figure of the Varaha (wild boar), incarnation of Lord Vishnu worth seeing.

Lakshmana Temple: Has dexterously carved figures of Apsaras (celestial maidens) and the base of the temple has a frieze with scenes of the battles, hunting and processions.

Kandariya Mahadev: The largest (31 km high) and architecturally the most perfect, dedicated to Lord Shiva, has an interesting exterior with 646 statues and an equally amazing interior with 226 statues.

Mahadeva Temple: Though in ruins and probably the smallest temple, yet the sculpture of a sardula figure caressing a lion makes it a must-see.

Vishwanath Temple: Dedicated to Shiva, and his faithful vehicle Nandi (the cow). The depiction of women, fondling babies, writing letters, playing music and in some other erotic postures make it one of the most photographed temples.

Matangesvara Temple: The 2.5 m high Shiva lingum here is still worshiped and is perhaps the only temple here that is still used.

Chausath Yogini Temple: Believed to be the oldest here, it is only one made in granite, unfortunately in ruins now.

Devi Jagadamba Temple: The sculptures here are depicted in three bands running around the temple itself with the famous Mithunas (loving couples) on the uppermost one.

Chitragupta Temple: Dedicated to the Sun God (Surya), the sculptures depicting dancing maidens, elephant fights, hunting scenes and Surya driving his chariot and the 11-headed Vishu statue make the stroll in the complex very interesting.
Eastern Group: These are partly Hindu and partly Jain temples.

Adinath Temple: A typical Khajuraho Hindu temple, but with a striking black image that resonates a Jain temple.

Parasvanath Temple: Flanking the Adinath temple, is this largest Jain temple in Khajuraho. The feminine sculptures here echo classic, sensitive art more than anything else.

Shantinath Temple: Youthful, compared to its neighbors, where Digambara Jains come to worship Adinath.

Ghantai Temple: This has graceful carvings of the bell and chain motifs. The depiction of the 16 dreams of Mahavira's mother and a multi-armed Jain goddess riding on a winged Garuda are must dekko.

Javari Temple: With a plethora of Khajuraho maidens on the exteriors and Vishnu is the reigning deity.

Vamana Temple: Slightly older than the Javari Temple, stands alone in the middle of a field, dedicated to the dwarf incarnation of Vishnu.
Brahma and Hanuman Temple: One of the oldest in pure granite and actually dedicated to Vishnu and not Brahma. The nearby Hanuman temple has the earliest inscription dating back to 922 AD on a 2.5m statue.

Southern Group: With just two temples viz. Duladeo and Chaturbhuja. The sculptures here seem a monotonous repetition on the rest, perhaps built when the creativity of the artists were already beginning to fade.

Archaeological Museum (Open daily, except Fridays/Time: 10-5pm): Just near the Western group is a treasure trove housing some rare sculptures rescued from around Khajuraho. Here you can scrutinize closely the figures otherwise perched high on the walls.

Shilpgram: A 10-acre ethnic village with an heirloom of traditional crafts from various parts of India which can be both viewed and bought. The amphitheater within hosts various cultural programs.

Shopping

Shopping may not be a smooth sail out here in this quaint old city with touts and shopkeepers known for their irrefutable persistence. But if you are an adamant buyer and pick exactly what you want, then any place can be your shopping hub.

The ethnic souvenirs are erotic mini sculptures and a wide range of handicrafts. The areas around the temple complexes remain a shoppers bee-hive. Head for Shilpgram, the ethnic arcade, Artist ((Surya Hotel Complex, Jain Temple Rd.) for good buys. The latter has exquisite paintings on silk, fabric, and paper, and also some clever foldaway chairs, tables, and ornamental pieces at prices so low they'll make your head spin. And if you want some authentic Mughal art, you will have to find your way from here to either of the two Artist outlets in Khajuraho.

Cuisine

Now Khajuraho is not exactly a gourmet's dream come true, but you can have some luscious dishes on your palate if you check out the restaurants in the Five Stars. For snacks and mini-meals go to Raja's Café, while for delectable Gujrati food go to Shivam Restaurant. Try Italian at Mediterraneo and Japanese at Sakura.
Snippets

Legend behind the scluptures: A lore goes that Hemawati, the lovely daughter of a Brahmin priest, was seduced by the moon-god while bathing in a forest pool. The child born of this union was Chandravarman, founder of the Chandela dynasty. Brought up in the forests by his mother who sought refuge from a censorious society, Chandravarma, when established as a ruler, had a dream visitation from his mother who implored him to build temples that would reveal human passions. And the rest is history.

The Khajuraho Dance Festival: The classical dance maestros from across the nation match their steps during this week-long cultural fiesta with the silhouetted temples in the background. Khajuraho serves the befitting venue for 'expressions' in different hues right from Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Manipuri, and many more, in a land where the best is still expressed in the age-old stones.

Getaways

Dhubela (64 km): On the Khajuraho-Jhansi route is this old fort housing a rare collection of artifacts depicting the heritage of Bundelkhand through the Shaki cult sculptures and a cache of weapons, clothes and personal memorabilia of the Bundela rulers.

Ken Gharial Sanctuary (24 km): Here is where you will see a fearsome gang of the Indian gharial or the long-snouted crocodile basking recklessly under the sun.

Pandav Falls (32 km): The cascading Pandav Falls on the mighty Ken river samples a sight not to be missed.

Panna National Park (44 km): A fascinating wildlife park to head if you have a tiger fixation. Other wildlife life like deer, leopards, langur and sambar and about 300 avian species abound. The less known fact is this that Panna houses some beautiful temples which are a fine blend of Hindu and Islam architecture. Once there, consider a traip to the Raneh Falls and the Majhgawan Diamond Mines (Asias largest) close by.

Ajaygarh Fort (36 km from Panna) and Kalinjar Fort (25 km northwards): Ajaygarh is an old Chandela fort, built at an elevation of 688 m, to the ward off intruders still resonates something of that lost galore. Kalinjar Fort was an original Gupta product captured by the Chandelas later.

Banisagar Lake/Dam (11 km): This is a fine spot for picnicking while the adventure mongers can try boating and angling. Note: For angling and fishing prior permission must be gained from the Assistant Director Fisheries Department, Nowgong, Madhya Pradesh.

Orchha (150 km): On Jhansi-Khajuraho highway, is this medieval city flanked by the Betwa River and home to some beautiful 16th and 17th century palaces and temples. Paintings and mirror-work and intricate stairways in Jehangir Mahal, Raj Mahal and Rai Praveen Mahal are enchanting. The Ram Raja, Chaturbhuj and Laxmi Narayan temples and cenotaphs also worth a meander around.

Location :
Northern tip of Madhya Pradesh

Go there for :
Temples, Sculptures

Climate :
20°-45°C (Sun); 5°-27°C (Win)

When to Go:
Aug-Mar

Literacy :
53%

STD Code :
+91 - 7686

AMRISTAR - NORTH INDIA

2009-03-12T19:37:00.002+08:00

Believers’ land

Northwestern Punjab (NW India) cradles the seat of Sikhism Amritsar, with the quintessential Temple in marble, bronze and gold leaf. Not just the fascinating Golden Temple, Amritsar’s claim to fame also owes to the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak and Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, who found this land befitting to meditate in a gap of some 2000 years. Legends even have it that saint Valmiki wrote the great religious epic Ramayana here. A halo exudes from this land --- not for your vision, but for your senses, that leaves you sanctified by the time you are ready to leave.

Tale of the City

The city’s genesis can be traced back to the then prevailing belief that the waters of its lake (the present Amrit Sarovar or the lake of Nectar) had medicinal properties that could cure ailments as serious as leprosy. This place became the obvious choice of Guru Amar Das and his successor Ram Das to lay the cornerstone of their faith. By 1577 a tank was constructed and believers etched a small village its vicinity. The fifth Sikh Guru Arjan Sahib, constructed a temple right at the middle of that tank. Legends have it that at his behest Hazrat Mian Mir ji of Lahore (a Muslim peer), laid the cornerstone of the temple in December, 1588. Laborious toils of Sikh devotees followed to give to the world one of its most beautiful shrines ever. The tank was christened Amritsar - that became the very name of that place.

Attractions

The Golden Temple: The Golden Temple, popular as Sri Harmandir Sahib or Sri Darbar Sahib, is the sacred seat of Sikhism. Bathed in a quintessential golden hue that dazzles in the serene waters of the Amrit Sarovar that lace around it, the swarn mandir (Golden temple) is one that internalizes in the mindscape of its visitors, no matter what religion or creed, as one of the most magnificent House of Worship. On a jewel-studded platform is the Adi Grantha or the sacred scripture of Sikhs wherein are enshrined holy inscriptions by the ten Sikh gurus and various Hindu and Moslem saints.While visiting the Golden Temple you need to cover your head. Street sellers sell bandanas outside the temple at cheap prices.

Monument of Jalianwala Bagh: This is the Martyr's Memorial built in the memory of the unarmed people who died in an open firing by General Dyer on April13, 1919. The place still resonates of the tragedy that registers itself as one of the cruelest in the history of humanity.

Ram Bagh: Here is the summer palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and a museum. This garden is laid out on the pattern of Shalimar Bagh at Lahore. The museum houses miniatures, coins, weapons and the replica of most famous diamond Kohinoor.

Mata Mandir Temple: An old pious lady built a Hindu temple at Rani ka Bagh, in the lines of holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi at Katra (Jammu). Pilgrims from far and wide flock to seek the late Mata’s blessings.

Shopping

Shop at the Hall Bazar and Lawrence Road for souvenirs and other branded wears. Do not forget to pack your bags with some exquisite Amritsari woolens and blankets, juttis and embroidered stuff.

A lesser known fact is that 99% of the world's wooden chess is made in Amritsar ! Not just simple wooden chess, here you can buy Camel Bone Chess, Artistic Chess, Chess Boards, Chess Boxes and what not. Go to Focal Point (industrial Area) and you'll find many small houses who make chess boards right at their homes. Another souvenir is the orange colored Golden Temple banadana -- buy one for yourself and then a whole bunch for friends.

Cuisine

Amritsaris love to eat, drink and be merry. Punjabi culinary has always been a gourmet’s delight and with dhabas (roadside restaurants) at every bend of street, there is no end to feasting your taste buds. Piping-hot Makke di roti (corn-flour flatbreads), Sarso da saag (fried mustard leaves), lassi (yogurt shake) are the pride-of-the-platter amongst other concoctions. Butter and milk are an important and indispensable part of everything. And needless to say, a heavenly hiatus from those dietery regimes.

Some spots to head to: Kesar da Dhaba in Bazaar Passian for vegetarian food, Makhan Dhaba (Lawrence Rd.) for luscious Amritsari fish, Kundan Dhaba (opposite Hall Gate) for yummiest traditional Punjabi platter, Ahuja Lassiwalla (near Hindu Mahasabha College) for that glass of lip-smacking Lassi, Surjit Chicken (Lawrence Rd.) for delicious butter chicken and kulchas or lachedar parathas, Crystal for your very familiar Chinese and Continental cuisines, but with an emphasis on North Indian specialties.

Snippets

The Five “K’s” of the Sikh’s: The most distinguishing feature of every Sikh is undoubtedly the turban and the beard. Other than that, Sikh’s have five must-have’s known as kakkar in Punjabi to stand united as part of Guru Gobind Singh's sacred Khalsa brotherhood --- Kesh (hair they are not supposed to cut their hair ever), Kangha (comb, to keep the hair neat), Kirpan (saber or sword a symbol of dignity), Kaccha (loose underpants a symbol of their modesty), Karra (traditional steel bangle symbol of fearlessness).

Getaways

Wagah Border (28 km): Wagah, an army outpost on Indo-Pak border is of tourist interest because of the “Beating the Retreat” ceremony every evening. Soldiers from both countries march in perfect drill and the ceremonial lowering of the flags is carried out with great pomp. As the sun sets, nationalistic fervor reaches its zenith and lights are switched on amidst thunderous applause.

35 Gurudwaras around Amritsar: Buses leave from the clock tower near the Golden Temple at 8 am and returns around 5 pm after touring the 35 Gurudwaras including those at Gobindwala, Tarn Taran, Baba Bikala, Buddha Sahib, Khadoor Sahib, Damdama Sahib and Chheharta.

Hari-ka-patan: Situated just outside the city at the confluence of the Beas and Sutlej rivers, this is a favorite picnic spot peopled by tourists, myriad birds and anglers.

Location :
In Punjab, 410km NW of Delhi

Go there for :
Golden Temple, Wagah Border

Climate :
34°-15°C (Sum); 18°-0°C (Win)

When to Go:
Oct - Mar

Local Tongue:
Punjabi

Literacy :
71%

STD Code :
+91 - 183

SHIMLA HILL STATION - NORTH INDIA

2009-03-12T19:18:00.003+08:00

Shimla - the aging Charmer

The seven picturesque hills of Shimla are in Southern Himachal, 117 km from Chandigarh. This once favorite summer retreat of the erstwhile Britons have so changed over the years that if the souls of its founders are to be come back for a dekko, they would either be saddened or gladdened to see it transform into the poshest of tourist magnets amongst the Himalayan hill-stations. The Mall street is lined with branded showrooms, the city is studded with hep resorts and out of every seven heads, one is a rtourist. Considering the phenomenal tourist hobnob, at times, slicing out your space - so wanting of such laid-back vacations - may be difficult in a place Shimla. This difficulty is promptly attended to with the neighboring getaways, the resorts, the golf at Naldehra and skiing at Kufri and Narkanda, and Shimla continues to charm her visitors.

Attractions

The Mall: A languid stroll through the main pedestrian avenue, the Mall that runs along the top of the ridge, is sine qua non for everyone visiting Shimla. This hustling promenade is lined with shops, old colonial buildings, souvenir shops and eateries, once used to be animated with gossip-loving Britons. The Scandal Point, at the junction of the Ridge and the Mall is a legendary favorite and the views of the entire locale from here are as exotic. Overlooking it is the elegant Christ Church with its fine stained glass windows. And just below the ridge is the sprawling Annandale, the venue for races, polo matches, cricket and so on.

Gaiety Theatre: Located on the Mall road, is one of the oldest theatres in the world that was inaugurated way back in1887, Queen Victoria's Jubilee Year. Notable personalities of Indian cinema like K.L. Saigal, Prithvi Raj Kapoor, Shashi Kapoor, Jennifer Kendall, Raj Babbar, Anupam Kher, Manohar Singh, Nasseerudin Shah, have performed on the stage of the Gaiety theatre. An evening watching a local drama can be exhilarating.

Jhakoo Hill: A short, but steep climb east of The Ridge will take you to the base of the Jhaku Hill, the highest point in Shimla, at an altitude of 2,445m (7,800 ft.). You need to trudge up a steep 1.5 km (1mile) path to reach the summit, where is perched a little Hanuman temple - a curious blend of Hindu faith and Christian elements suggested by the tinsel and streamer decorations. Once there, adjust your lenses for the photo-shoot for natural beauty of this kind should not go unrecorded.

Institute of Advanced Studies: The grey Gothic-style Viceregal Lodge, set amidst sprawling gardens, houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies. Even in 1888 it had electric light and an indoor tennis court, both rare and advanced for that period. The ambience creates an aura of antiquity not to be missed. The grounds are open for visitors only on Sundays.

Himachal State Museum: Very close to the Institute, in a colonial building set in spacious lawns, is the museum. It has collections of Pahari miniatures, stone sculpture, local handicrafts, textiles and embroidery.

The Shimla Toy Train: The Indian Railway and Himachal Tourism revamped the 1903 toy train (fondly called), into a luxury train for tourists. The train sketches a track from Kalka to Shimla through 20 stations, 103 tunnels, 969 bridges and 919 curves in its entire journey. This 'small wonder' also appears in the Guinness Book of World Records as the greatest narrow gauge engineering achievement in India. This train journey through the panoramic hills should not be missed.

Adventure trails: Camping, Bungee Jumping, Cycling, Horse Riding, Para Gliding, Safaries, Skating, Trekking, Wild Life, Yak Riding are the various options you have once at Shimla.

Shopping

Hunt for colorful Kinnauri shawls, mufflers, and caps; Pangwali blankets from Chamba; Kangra-school miniature paintings; Buddhist thangkas (banners) from Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti and multicolored hand-knitted woolen socks from Lahaul at The Mall street locale. The Himachal Emporium, a little beyond Scandal Point, has the best buys. Right below the ridge is the Lakkad Bazaar which offers just anything imaginable carved out of wood. Diwanchand Atmaram is famous for its woollen ware. If you still have time head for the Tibetan market, right down the Scandal Point, for casual jeans, T-shirts, bags, shoes, jackets et al. And if you are a brand-freak, The Mall has lots of them lined up for you.

Cuisine

Non-vegetarian dishes, with a generous dose of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves and red chilies, are an integral part of Himachali cuisine, considering that vegetables are hard to get by during the harsh snow-bound months. These include exotic dishes like Chasnidar Maas (mutton in a sweet and spicy gravy) and mutton cooked in yoghurt. In Himachali cooking, spices are not fried in ghee or oil. Instead, these are added to the dish at the end, to retain the flavour. Another distinctive feature of Himachali cooking is that the rich, highly flavoured and seasoned preparations avoid the excessive use of onion and garlic, favouring the use of lassi (buttermilk) instead. Himachal is known as the fruit-bowl of India with a thriving food processing industry that churns out fruit-based drinks, squashes and concentrates. The popular flavours are plum, litchi, strawberry, mango and guava. For alcoholic drinks, try the locally brewed wines such as apricot, plum and apple & ginger cider. In predominantly Tibetan areas, a rice wine known as "Chang" is popular.

Go to Devicos, beyond the Scandal Point, for its pao bhaji. Baljee's, on the eastern end of The Mall, is popular for its delectable Indian and Western cuisine. As for the local cuisine, you only need to follow the direction of the aroma.

Getaways

Mashobra (12 km): The sequestered Mashobra village, with one of India's loveliest hotels - Wildflower Hall, is an ideal base for treks up the area's highest peak Shali at 10,000 ft. or for a stroll to the "sacred grove" of Sipur, which is crowned with a small indigenous-style temple dedicated to the local deity, Seep.

Naldhera (22km): Beyond Mashobra is the the popular recreational resort of Naldehra. Other than the Golf Course and the cedar forests, the charming log huts studded in the lush grasslands, make it a warm overnighting locale. The hot sulphur springs of Tattapani, noted for their curative effects, lie a farther 28 km away.

Chail (45 km): Go there to see for yourself how the world's highest cricket pitch at 7,800 ft. and the highest polo ground looks like. A romantic legend (a scandalous one for the Britons) goes that the Maharajah of Patiala, eloped with (or abducted, again depending on who's telling the story) the daughter of Lord Kitchener. Predictably, he was forced to return the daughter and was banished from Shimla for ever, which made his construe his own summer capital at Chail.

Kufri (12 km): Only half-hour drive away from Shimla is Kufri with a fine forested slopes and a ski-resort. It also has a Himalayan Nature park and close by is the Indira Tourist Park with HPTDC's Cafe Lalit. Here one can enjoy a Pony or a Yak Ride. Incase your trip is timed somewhere between January to March, don't miss out the winter sports festival held every February. One can also hike through thick forest around Kufri to the Mahasu Peak - the highest one in Kufri.

Narkanda (64 km): Narkanda, located amidst fragrant pine forests is a winter ski resort. It has a choice of slopes ranging from a beginners run and a slalom slope, to sharper descents for the experienced skier. A winding route with some breath-taking views link Narkanda with Shimla.

Location :
Center of Himachal Pradesh, North India

Go there for :
Resorts, Adventure, Shimla Toy Train

Climate :
-4° to18°C (Win); Upto 30°C (Sum)

When to Go:
April-Oct

Local Tongue:
Himachali, Hindi

STD Code :
+91 - 177

GULMARG HILL STATION - NORTH INDIA

2009-03-07T18:47:00.003+08:00

Snow in the Meadows

What better name can do justice to the eclectic diaspora of multi-colored Bluebells, Daisies, Forget Me Not’s, Buttercups flaked all over the 3 sq-km valley than “Gulmarg”, meaning Meadow of Flowers. Roosted at an altitude of 2,730 m in Baramulla district of the Pir Panjal mountains (one of the six ranges which make up the Himalayas), some 51 km from Srinagar, is this saucer-shaped bowl overhanging the main valley of Kashmir. Come winters and snow carpets Gulmarg’s grassy slopes, the fir trees wear white scarves, welcoming tourists for a rejuvenating vacation. Golfers raise a toast here in the evenings after their day of golfing at world’s highest golf-course. The slopes invite sledges and skiing enthusiasts to partake in myriad adventure escapades in this sequestered snow-land. The Gondolas (cable cars) that whiz across the valley create hallucinations of looking back at an heaven from the sky.

Attractions

Golf at 2,650m : Be prepared to witness a green spread with 18-hole course, with a par of 72 - something you will not see in the whole world at an altitude of 2,650 m above the sea-level. Gulmarg Golf Club was born way back in 1911 and the Clubhouse is a classic reminder of a Swiss chalet with its quaintly sloping roof. Tournaments of both amateurs and professionals, evening golfing and tourists scuttling by, make it a wonderful evening stoppage at Gulmarg .

Skiing & Heliskiing : All those skiers out there need not be informed about the enticing slopes of Gulmarg. As for the beginners, the white blanket of Gulmarg in December through January, serves as fine skiing slopes. In fact, Gulmarg is credited to have Asia’s most treacherous Heli-skiing slopes. And in case you are not sure about the difference between skiing and heliskiing --- the latter is actually the more adventurous version where you don’t use the ski-lift but a helicopter for downhill skiing. The descent from the Apharwat peak, that lasts for some 30 min, is one of its kind for advanced skiers. And good news is Gulmarg has well qualified instructors to teach the right techniques and excellent equipment for hire.

Gondola ride & Winter Sports : Gulmarg’s newly completed gondola, designed by France's Poma Group, ascends from the resort at 2650 meters, via a mid station and restaurant at 3050 meters, to an elevation of 3980 meters, providing lift served access to 1330 vertical meters of vast snow riding terrain. These Gondolas (cable car) pass across the hills from Gulmarg to Kongdor providing that unequaled sweeping glance of the entire valley. Sledging, Tobogganing, snow scooters, horse riding (horses can be hired directly or through the Tourist Office), and snow bobbing are other options that await at this famous hill resort.

Mighty treks : Gulmarg’s higest peak on the west called Affarwat is best for trekking. Treks to the alpine meadows of Khilanmarg (4km) are also wonderful. There is also a pony track from Gulmarg that leads upwards to Khilanmarg, Kongdori and seven springs - something you should check out if you have time.

Outer Circle Walk : Ask any local about this road circular 11-km road that runs around Gulmarg, from where you can have excellent scenic views of the massifs of Nanga Parbat (fourth highest peak on earth at 8,500 m), Harmukh, the rugged slopes of Ferozepur, Sunset Peak and Apharwat Ridge.

Pray close to the heaven : The Maharani Temple, St. Mary’s Church, shrine of Baba Reshi (Tangmarg) are the places to head for if you have somehow get this in your mind that prayers sent up from such great heights will reach the gods faster.

Shrine of Baba Reshi/Ziarat of Baba Reshi : On the slopes below Gulmarg, and surrounded by a courtyard of carved deodar is a tomb (Ziarat) of a well known Muslim saint, can be reached from either Gulmarg or Tangmarg. Every year thousands of devotees visit this shrine regardless of the faith they believe in.

Shopping

Gulmarg is definitely not a place to be if you want to pick knick-knacks for home. The traditional crafts include cane and bamboo work, metal-crafts etc. And to shop them, and other Kashmiri local handicrafts, the markets at Srinagar are the best. Brass and Silverware, willow baskets, artifacts made of papier-mâché and woolen garments swell the Srinagar markets. Hunt for curios at Lal Chowk, Badshah Chowk and Polo View area. Cricket bats made of Kashmiri willow, wicker baskets, limestone mortar and pestles are interesting buys available around Dalgate. Dry fruits and the likes should be shopped in plenty and the collection should at least include honey, walnuts, almonds, saffron and dried apples.

Cuisine

Kashmiri cuisine’s trademark spices emanate from every Gulmarg kitchen -- cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, saffron etc. With rice as the staple diet, a typical Gulmarg table is laid with non-veg specialties like mutton, chicken or fish cooked with vegetables. Some popular combinations are mutton and turnips, chicken and spinach, fish and lotus root. Pure vegetarian dishes include dum-aloo (roasted potatoes in curd-based gravy), and chaman (fried paneer or cottage cheese in a thick sauce). Kashmiris do not care much for sweet dishes and desserts. For beverage, they have Kahva or green tea where a slush of spices and almonds exude that replenishing aroma. The traditional Rogan Josh (meat balls in gravy) is a recommended non-veg delight.

Snippets

» Best winter: Gulmarg enjoyed one of its best winters on New Year Eve, 2004 when 3-m of snow (118 inches) fell in just four days beginning on 30th December.

» Is Kashmir Safe?: In spite of the terrorist brouhaha, Srinagar, the base for trips to Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Pahalgam, continues to attract thousands of tourists every year. Police checking points, frisking and questioning are a part of daily life and J&K is not like any other tourist spot of India. Walking about the dark should be avoided and be prepared that your cell-phones on roaming are not going to work there. Only after a complete sojourn in the Kashmir valley, you will realize why she has been the bone of contention between two great nations (India & Pakistan) for years. Kashmir is too paradisaical to be lost!

Getaways

Khilanmarg (6km): About 40-min away from Gulmarg, at an ascent of 600-meter is the site of the much hyped winter ski-runs. The very journey en route the valley of wild flowers from Gulmarg to Khilanmarg, with classic views of the imposing peaks (Nanga Parbat to the twin 7,100-meter peaks of Nun and Kun) and their reflections in Wular and other lakes, is breathtakingly beautiful.

Alpather Lake (13 km): Beyond Khilanmarg and at the foot of the twin 4,511 meter Apharwat peaks, is this frozen lake (winters till mid-June). Ride a pony over the 3,810 meter Apharwat ridge and then up the valley to the lake at 3,843 meters or trek straight up the boulder-strewn slope of the ridge and descend the other side to the path.

The Ningli Nallah (8 km): The Apharwat and the Alpather Lake melts into a dazzling stream that stream continues down into the valley below to joins the Jhelum River near Sopur. Meadows beckon picnicking families and camping troupes.

Ferozpore Nallah: Another mountain stream that meets the Bahan River at a popular picnic spot known as ‘waters meet’, Ferozpore Nallah is reputed for its stock of trout fish is an angler’s favorite at Gulmarg. Reached from the Tangmarg road or from the Outer Circular Walk, trekking up to the source of the stream - the rugged peak Ferozpore or Shinmahinyu - very close to the ceasefire line with Pakistan, is both interesting and treacherous.

Pahalgam (153 km): At 8957 ft, this is a pristine shepherd’s village popular as the base camp for the pilgrimage jaunt to the Amarnath Cave during July-August. The ancient Mamleshwar Temple, the best amongst the valley’s other 7th century limestone temple, is the recent tourist rage.

Location :
At 8,694 ft SW of Sri Nagar, J&K;

Go there for :
Skiing, Golf, Treks, Alpather Lake

Altitude:
2,730m

Climate :
Reaches (-)2°C in Winters and about 29°C (Sum)

When to Go:
May-Sep (Sum); Nov-Feb (Winter/good for Skiing)

Local Tongue:
Kashmiri, Hindi, Dogri

STD Code :
+91 - 1954

AGRA - NORTH INDIA

2009-03-07T18:10:00.002+08:00

Agra-hosting the 'monument of love'

So synonymous is Agra with the Taj Mahal, that one tends to forget which is what. There is something about this famed memento of love - the Taj Mahal - that an Emperor constructed to internalize the memory of his dead wife and got the hands of the artisans lopped off so that it cannot be imitated. There truly is no second Taj and a look at the white-marbled monument leaves one with an impression that it is too pretty to be a funeral shrine, and one tends to give in to the argument that it is actually a proud display of grandeur of an equally proud emperor who wanted to get his name embossed in the pages of history. Whatever be its genesis, Agra is beelined by blue-chip couples and honeymooners worldwide, for their postcard snapshot with the Taj behind them.

Tale of the City

The architectural marvels hewn across the city is a clear reminder of the Mughal presence here in their once Capital. While its significance as a political center ended with the transfer of the capital to Delhi in 1634, its architectural wealth has secured its place on the international map.

Attractions

Fatehpur Sikri (39 km): This was Akbar's walled palatial city in red sandstone. The Emperor had no heir and as lores go, only after visiting the saint Sheikh Salim Chishti of Sikri, he was blessed with a son. He was so bemused that he decided to build his capital there in Sikri. Other places of historical importance there are Panch Mahal, Dewane-e-Khaas, Dewane-e-Am, Buland Darwaja, Jodha Bai Palace and Birbal Bhawan.

The Taj Mahal: A visit to the Taj Mahal is sine qua non for tourists visiting India. This architectural wonder in white marble is inlaid with mosaic studded with precious-stones, Quranic inscriptions, four minarets, each 42 m high, flanking the onion shaped central dome. Avante garde writer Salman Rushdie puts it beautifully when he insists that the Taj must be seen "to remind us that the world is real, that the sound is truer than the echo, the original more forceful than its image". In fact, the beauty of this Mausoleum is beyond the grasp of lexicon. Except Fridays, which is the holy day for the Muslims, it is open everyday between 6 am to 7.30pm.

Agra Fort: A Mughal dynasty architectural grandeur in red sandstone, the Agra Red Fort or the Lal Quila is like a palatial city that houses some beatific buildings, including Moti Masjid, Diwane-i-Am, Diwane-i-Khas, Khaas Mahal, Sheesh Mahal and Musamman Burj, where the Emperor Shah Jahan died in imprisonment.

Akbar's Mausoleum: A blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture, this deep-red sandstone and marbled Mausoleum at Sikandra, was designed by the emperor himself and modified by his son emperor Jehangir. The Buland Darwaza or the Gateway of Magnificence at its entrance seems more majestic than the Mausoleum itself at times.

Itmad-Ud-Daulah's Tomb: It is a 17th century tomb, built by Empress Noor Jahan, in memory of her father, Ghias-ud-Din Beg. It was here that the "Pietra Dura" - the inlay work on marble, so characteristic of the Taj, was first used. The yellow hued marble is highlighted with white and black marble inlay, and the lacy pierced marble screens and rich, jewel-inlaid mosaics have a delicate, feminine quality that is pure enchantment.

Jama Masjid: A large mosque built by Princess Jahanara Begum, who seem to have inherited her father Shah Jehan's aesthetic sensibility. Notable for its unusual dome and absence of minarets.

Radhaswamy Samadhi, Dayalbagh: The headquarter of the Radhaswamy sect is another architectural wonder in the making, just that the process begun almost hundred years back and is still continuing. This grandeur in marble is built by the progeny of the laborers who built the Taj - some family craftmanship that gets passed on as an heirloom.

Shopping

The insignia of the Taj echoes through the markets and right from the print on the fabrics to the miniature sculpture piece in silver, it is a popular brand. So you will not have dearth of souvenirs to carry back from from this land of the World's Seventh Wonder. The Taj 'industry' apart, Agra is famous for its marble and soft stone inlay, as well as zardori-embroidered fabrics, leather goods, brass ware, carpets, and jewelry. Head for the Govt. Emporiums if you want to carry some local made stuff. Agra also offers semi-precious stone jewelery that is typical of the ornate Moghul style. Fatehabad Road and M.G. Road has some good shops that you can check out. Else, shopping at Delhi (which has almost everything that can be bought in Agra), is a recommended option. This tourist hub sells over-prized commodities more than often.

Cuisine

Mughal cuisines and their aesthetic sense are undeniably supreme. And Agra's kitchens exude that scrumptious Mughal aroma. The tandoor (earthen oven), was perhaps one of the most remarkable Mughal introduction that has become the stamp of Indian food in the dining tables worldwide. The kebabs, pulaos and kheer and petha are all must eats. These are safe bets if had from authentic restaurants, and let your taste buds taste and wonder what they are.

For some amazing Mughlai khana, go to Peshawari (Mughal Sheraton, M G Road), Mughal Room (Clarks Shiraz), where live ghazals (poetry readings) romanticize the atmosphere. The rates maybe higher, but after gorging the lot you will know that your pennies were worth it.

Snippets

Taj Mahotsav: Come February and Agra bursts into an orchestra of colors with the best handicrafts, cuisine, dance and music, bedecked elephants, camels, folk artisans, drum-beaters from all over U.P. blending about the Taj. Venued at Shilpgram, just next door to the Taj, this 10 days festival is a must visit.

Taj by the moonlight: Since 2005, the Taj has been opened for night viewing for 5 days each lunar cycle - the full-moon night and 2 nights before and after that. The ban on night viewing lasted for 20 years (due to terrorist threats) and now too, it can be viewed only from a certain distance. It can't be kept open every night for tourists because that would require floodlights and this might cause harm to this pristine marbled wonder.

The Taj is a delicate darling. In 1996, there were fears that the sound system at a concert by Greek musician Yanni may have damaged the delicate marble structure. Pollution has actually got it an yellowish tinge.

Getaways

Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary (54 km): The Park which used to be the Siberian Crane's, and a host of other migratory birds wintering destination, needs no introduction for ornithologists worldwide. Even if you don't know much about birds, its 350 species of multi-colored avian metropolis will leave you infatuated. Don't forget your binoculars.

Hindu Pilgrimage destinations: Mathura (or Brajbhoomi, 47 km NW of Agra), is Lord Krishna's birthplace; Vrindavan (10 km from Mathura) is where He spent his chilhood and Gokul (16 km south of Mathura) is where Krishna was secretly raised; Govardhan Hill (25 km from Mathura) is the hill Lord Krishna lifted with his small hillock to save the villagers from torrential rain.

Location :
In Uttar Pradesh, SE of Delhi

Go there for :
Taj Mahal, Agra Fort

Climate :
21.9-45 °C (Sum); 4.2-31.7 °C (Win)

When to Go:
Nov-March

Local Tongue:
Hindi

Literacy :
65%

STD Code :
+91 - 562

MUMBAI - WEST INDIA

2009-03-07T12:45:00.002+08:00

Mumbai-Dreams take you to..

The very mention of Mumbai sets the Indian eyes to sparkle. Can there be a better appellation than 'City of Dreams' for a place where ordinary people can become stars overnight. Studded with the Indian Hollywood - Bollywood, India's 'Little Paris' - the fashion industry that unabashedly boasts of the world's largest textile produce, Indian cricketers, India's largest Stock Exchange at Bandra and Asia's oldest at Dalaal Street, the racing maniacs' Mahalaxmi Race Course - Mumbai aka Bombay is the place to be. Welcome to a city which might pause at times for some breath but never sleeps.

Tale of the City

Bombay belonged to the Portuguese until 1661, when it was passed on to the British as a part of Catherine of Braganza's dowry when she married Charles II. Ever since, Parsis, Marwaris, Gujaratis and South Indian Hindus have some and settled here making it a classic cultural and religious medley.

Attractions

Festivals of note: The Elephanta Dance and Music Festival of the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), held at the Elephanta Islands, 10 km away from the Mumbai harbor, is something you should check out if you are timing your trip in February. Traditional folk dances by local fishermen, ethnic cuisine, dance and music performances by noted artists from across the nation make it a classic tourist attraction. Watch the majestic Shiva Idol that takes on a divine aura with brilliant light effects. You can easily take a Motor drive to the island.

Another riotously popular festival is the Ganesha Chaturthi or the festival of Lord Ganesha celebrated late August-early September. The city takes on a different entity altogether with nose-to-nail traffic.

Historical Echoes : The grandiloquent Gateway of India, built in 1911, with intricate latticework carved into the yellow basalt stone, is a matter of fact gateway (unlike the India Gate at Delhi) through which the British passed while departing independent India. For that mind-swirling view, the coffee shop at the Taj Mahal Hotel, will be the best bet. Flanking it is an insignia reminiscing Mumbai, just like the Statue of Liberty echoes America - the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji on horseback. An hour's sail across the Arabian Sea from the Gateway of India will take you to the Elephanta Caves, the mesmeric remains of the Konkan Mauryas and an UNESCO Heritage site.

If you have a taste for antiques, the Prince of Wales Museum, rated amongst the 20 best museums in the world, with its prized collection of miniature paintings of 16th - 18th century and remains of the Harappan and Mohenjodaro civilization, will leave you bewitched. Speaking of antiques, have you heard of the Parsi custom of leaving the dead in the open for the vultures to eat - an ultimate gesture of charity. Mumbai's Towers of Silence are some of the remnants of that lost tradition. Consider a visit to the lofty Hanging Gardens next door, built during the early 1880s over Bombay's main reservoir at the top of the Malabar Hills.

Mahatma Gandhi's Bombay residence, Mani Bhawan, with its heirloom of 2000 books, a photo feature of Mahatma's life, an original Charkha, a recording archive - make it a must-visit to re-discover India's saga of independence, so resonating other erstwhile colonial nations past.

The magnificent Gothic Victorian buildings in the Fort area are reminiscent of the great public buildings in London or Glasgow. The Victoria Terminus (known as CST), is one of the world's grandest railway stations, on a par with New York's Grand Central Station or London's St Pancras. Built in the Italian Gothic style, it looks more like a lavishly decorated cathedral than a railway station.

Beaches, of a kind : Chowpatty, in the city suburbs, is where you would see the swarm at its bustling best. Vendors, monkey shows, pony rides, fortune tellers, bhelpuri (a local lip-smacking snack) stalls, picnicking families, street plays or some surprise film shoot and what not, makes this beach one of its kind. Another boulevard so typically Mumbaiyya (of Mumbai) is the Marine Drive, dubbed Queen's Necklace, a dramatic curve laced with tall buildings and street lights on one side, and the turquoise sea on the other that extends from Nariman Point to Malabar Hills. Next is the Juhu beach. Now don't consider it any less important just because it is mentioned third. This is Mumbai's bourgeois locus constellated with many five star hotels that command an eye-rhyming view of the coast with its camel and pony rides, acrobats, and entertainers.

City of Dreams : Mumbai is India's celluloid capital. Bollywood - the Indian film industry, buzzes in its very life blood. The antique Prithvi Theatre belonging to the famed Kapoor lineage hosts plays on social themes - perfect for quiet evenings in your 'discover India' spree. Don't miss out some sightings of the legion of Bollywood studios where you can also have a quick chat with one of the stars, if you are lucky -that is.

Religious sites : Haji Ali's Mosque in the sea (often submerged during high tide), St Thomas's Cathedral (oldest British building in Mumbai), Zoroatrian Fire Temples (of Parsis), Jain temple (of the first tirthankara), Mahalaxmi (of resident goddess Mumbadevi).

Nocturnal hangouts : Mumbai remains blasphemously young with the nights pulsating with the beats of the bars and discotheques. Some names to remember incase you are a nocturnal: Slice of Lime, Insomnia (The Taj Mahal), Six Degrees the Champagne Lounge (The Leela Kempinski), Squeeze, Raspberry Rhinoceros (Juhu hotel), The Ghetto, H20 the Liquid Lounge (Khar), Poison (Bandra), Enigma (Juhu), Red Light (MG Road), to name a few.

Shopping

The very names of the shopping joints strike an enticing note. The shoppers swarm the Chor Bazaar and Crawford Market, where every thinkable buy can be made with your bargaining skills put to good use. Zaveri Bazar offers excellent range of jewelery items. Shop hop at Chor Bazar for antiques, jewelery, wooden articles, leather ware and general bric-a-brac. The World Trade Center (WTC) at Cuffe Parade and the shopping mall at Nehru Center are the shopping arcades with frequent exhibitions. Visit the various state's Govt. Emporiums at WTC for local wood carvings, brass ware, printed cotton from Nashik, traditional Marathi sarees and other souvenirs. The Central Cottage Industries Emporium (Apollo Bunder) and Khadi Village Industries Emporium (D.N.Road) with their fixed price tags, have authentic buys.

Go to Kemp's Corner, Warden Road, Breach Candy, Napean Sea Road, Fashion Street for trendy boutiques and western wear. For perfumes, walk into the famous Mohammed Ali Road that also has a splash of embroidery and Zari work besides artifacts and souvenirs. Bandra, the so-called Queen of Suburbs is where the Mumbai's top-shots reside and the adjoining Linking Road is agog with showrooms and Indian designer labels. And as you walk out, the pavements vendors offer both a contrast and a curious chance of frolicking about their interesting wares before you drive away to the comforts of your hotel.

Cuisines

Mumbai's multicultural lineage makes it a potpourri for the taste buds with delicacies from Goa, Mughal kitchens, Marathi flavors, Chinese, South Indian, Irani, Parsi and of course the local inventions like Bhel-puri (a snack of puffed rice, crisp noodles, chutney and chillies), Pao-bhaji (bun eaten with spicy cooked vegetables).

Gourmets, however, flock to the famed Khau Gallis of Mumbai. 'Khau', means to eat and 'Gully' means lane. And once you find your way to these lanes, you will realize, no other name would have done justice to the endless freshly made toothsome cuisine stalls bordering the sides of the lane. The cuisines include kebabs, baida parathas (kind of egg rolls), biryani, phirni (a rice and milk based pudding preparation), saviyia ki kheer (dessert made of vermicelli) and a lot more, we want you to explore and discover. Now, there are many of those 'Khau Gullies' in Mumbai and the to hunt them you need to remember (if you are tempted enough) the names of the localities - Zaveri Market, Mohammed Ali Road and Churchgate. But for those who has a special affinity for the term 'hygiene', it is advised to ignore this 'temptation', for such terms are typically alien to these roadside stalls. However, gourmets falling ill due to Khau Gullis is unheard of! And with some hundreds of Mumbaiites digging on those scrumptious palates, it is worth a try. What say?

The culinary voyage can have a safe sail at Viva Paschim (Maharashtrian food), Mahesh and China Garden (for seafood), La Rottisserie at the Oberoi, Zodiac Grill at the Taj and so on. Try India Jones & Opium Bar at the Oberoi Towers for the Pan-Asian cuisine and a dining experience with a difference.

Snippets

* Luxury Train lores: Deccan Odyssey, the luxury train begins here in Mumbai and trails through the most exotic locales in Maharashtra like Goa, Pune, Ajanta, Nashik and so on. A week-long jaunt in this truly royal carriage you will be pampered in the traditional way as train hisses through beaches, forts, palatial ruins, sculpted caves and some of the off-beat tracks still waiting to be explored.

* Mumbai's Dibbawalah: Mumbai's network of tiffin deliverers (or dibbawalahs) is one of the largest in the world. And thanks to the Forbes magazine who selected them as a colossal example of success of six sigma (a term used in quality assurance if the percentage of correctness is 99.999999). The lunch-carriers make one error on every 16 million transactions, a fete achieved only by giants like GE and Motorola. Infact, two tiffin carriers were invited to the wedding of Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall.

* Mumbai’s 189 crore Beggary Industry: Sure you have raised an eye-brow! One of the most thriving businesses here is ‘beggary’. And it is not just about spreading hands before people, the beggars are well-practised actors and master every art of gaining public sympathy. The revenue model and the food chain is so widely netted that it begins at those pennies/notes you drop at their spread hands and spans its way through many hundreds of pockets including those of local dons, politicians to underworld messiahs. For a sneak peek at what it is like, watch Bollywood’s famed director Madhur Bhandarkar’s flick “Traffic Signal”. A Mumbaiiya beggar is just not any-Beggar!

Getaways

Caves : The Karla Caves, near Lonavla, built by Buddhist Monks with many halls and a huge stone stupa along with the 2000-year-old teak wood ceiling is where you can head to add a streak of pilgrimage to your trip. Also visit the Kanheri caves, one of the biggest Buddhist monastic establishment on the Konkan coast, situated in the center of Mumbai's Borivili National Park.

Hill-Stations : Just 101 km SE of Mumbai and 69 km from Pune, is Khandala, an exciting hill-station in the Sahyadri mountain range. And at 120 km from Mumbai is Lonavla, another beauty in the hills with the waterfalls of Tungarly or exciting treks at the giant hillock aptly named Duke's Nose. Panchgani is another interesting option, 6 hours drive from Mumbai on the road to Mahabaleshwar.

Alibaug : A ferry ride or a 2 ½ hr drive from Gateway of India takes you to a super cool weekend resort Alibaug, laced with a sequestered beach, two forts - Shivaji's naval bases - Colaba Fort and Diamond Fort.

Location :
In Maharashtra, SW of Delhi

Go there for :
Beaches, Gothic buildings, Luxury Train Deccan Odyssey

Climate :
22-33°C (Sum);29-19°C (Win)

When to Go:
Nov-Feb

Local Tongue:
Marathi & Hindi

Literacy :
86%

STD Code :
+022

JODHPUR - WEST INDIA

2009-03-07T12:34:00.002+08:00

Jodhpur - rustic, yet regal

Rajasthan's second largest city where once walked the valiant Rathores looks bedazzling indeed when viewed from the ramparts of its hilltop Fort, with lamp-lit caravans and tired camels, bustling lanes with vendors and eager tourists bargaining over that sensuous leheriya sari and ornate sky scrapping palaces and havelis. Jodhpur is indeed beautiful and as you lark through the winding lanes following that luscious aroma of kachouri, bumping into localites more than often, you will be amazed at the warmth this templed city exudes.

Tale of the City

Founded in 1459 AD by the Suryavanshi Rao Jodha, Jodhpur was the former capital of the princely state of Marwar. The old city is enclosed within a 10 km long wall and the new city begins where the old ends. The wall has six huge gates called Nagauri gate, Merati gate, Sojati gate, Jalori gate, Siwanchi gate and Chand pol.

Attractions

Mehrangarh Fort: It means 'Majestic Fort' and a sweeping look at its facade will convince you how rightly was it named. Roosted right in the middle of the city atop a 125 m hill, this unassailable landmark encloses within its 36m high and 21m wide ramparts some of the most beautifully crafted palaces like Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana, exquisite conglomeration of palanquins, howdahs, royal cradles, miniatures, musical instruments, costumes and furniture. High on the rampart rests the second largest cannon in Asia, the recoil of which requires an area as large as a football field! Consider stopping by the museum shop which has a good collection of handicrafts, books and literature.

Jaswant Thada: As you climb down the Mehrangarh fort, watch out on the left for the white marbled cenopath of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. The sequestered monument is beautiful carved to look like a temple and with the collection of rare portraits of ex-rulers within, it exudes a mystic aura.

Umaid Bhavan Palace (Open:9am-5pm/Monday closed): Maharaja Umaid Singh was so infatuated with western lifestyle that he got the President of the British Royal Institute of Architects, Henry Vaughan Lanchester to construct what finally became a 347 roomed marvel in red Chittar sandstone. The Palace, completed just before independence, stands peerless as India's last of the great palatial buildings and one of the biggest private residences in the world. The 105 ft. singular cupola, the Throne Room with its exquisite Ramayana murals, an elegant wood-paneled library, a private museum, an indoor swimming pool, a Billiards Room, tennis courts and unique marble squash courts make Umaid Bhawan Palace a sheer delight. Turned a heritage resort, overnighting at Umaid Bhavan gives you the feel of waking up feeling like some Maharajah yourself. The museum has weapons, stuffed leopards, a huge banner presented by Queen Victoria and an incredible collection of clocks. There is more to this palace that inspires admiration - the noble cause of providing employment to the famine-stricken people.

Shopping

The ethnic items that can be bought from Jodhpur are tie and dye textiles, jootis, lacquerware, antiques, carpets and puppets. Most of the antique dealers perch in the road that runs between Ajit Bhawan and Umaid Bhawan. For exquisite tie and dye sarees, go to Sojati Gate. Station Road is where you get leather items and jooties (embroidered shoes). Head to Tripola Bazar for local handicrafts; to Mochi Bazar for lac works and bangles; to Nai Sadak for tie-and-dye fabrics, leather items, handlooms; to Clock Tower for handicrafts, textiles and spices. Check out Jodhpur Handloom House for beautiful Bandhni and Leheriya sarees.

Cuisine

A traditional Jodhpur palate is a tango of fiery spices and aromatic flavors emanating from the assortment of Mawa Kachori, Pyaaj Kachori, Hot & Spicy Mirchibada (made from potato, onion, chili and gramflour) and Panchkuta. Try On the Rocks (next to Ajit Bhawan) for its barbecue dishes, Haveli Guest House's rooftop or Mid Town restaurant for traditional cuisine and so on. And to balm your esophagus, incase the food was to spicy, wind up your meal with a tall glass of lassi (buttermilk). The best lassi can be had at Mishrilal Hotel.

Snippets

* Marwar Festival: Incase you have dropped in during the Festivals, don't miss participating. The Marwar Festival held during September-October is a gala event. The bards sing praises of the valors of Rajput warriors, kalbeliya dancers swirling their black skirts glittering with mirrors, beads and sequins in tune to mesmerizing desert music and the numerous food-stalls make it a maverick fiesta.

* Umaid Bhavan Palace Jodhpur is where the baggy/tight horse riding trousers were born. The jodhpurs (kind of riding breeches) took their name from here.

* Kite Festival: The International kite festival of Jodhpur, held at Polo Grounds, celebrated every January 14, last for three-days, and kite fliers from across the nation and abroad frolic here to participate.

Getaways

Mandore (9 km): The erstwhile capital of Marwar prior to the discovery of Jodhpur, is an interesting spot with a myriad old cenotaphs of the Rathore rulers, rugged caves, sprawling gardens amidst gurgling fountains and sights still waiting to be explored.

Osian (65 km NW): Some localites still refer to it with its old name 'Ukeshpur', while for tourists, whatever be it popular as, what scores the tourist-eye about this picturesque Thar desert town is some of the most spectacularly sculpted Brahmanical (16) and Jain temples. Camping right here in the deserland and touring the vicinity on the romping camel, samples an experience one would not like to forget easily.

Mahamandir (2 km NE): An old walled city that remains agog during the daytime with pilgrims coming to the 100 pillared Shiva temple here.

Balsamand Lake and Palace (4 km N): An old palace, frilled with a panoramic lake sums up for a quiet stroll in those muggy evenings. And if you have not forgotten your binoculars, head straight to the bird sanctuary just 3 km away. The palace is a luxury hotel now.

Wildlife parks: Sardar Samand Lake (55 km) is a wildlife center with herds of black bucks. The route has the Bishnoi villages (the Bishnois are the oldest conservationists in India) and a stroll in its placid lanes is a must. On the Jodhpur-Jaisalmer route, about 1 km from the Kalyana lake (near the Irrigation Dept. Dak bungalow), is the Machiya Safari Park with some amazing wildlife like deer, desert fox, monitor lizard, blue bulls rabbits, wild cats, mongoose, monkeys and rare birds.

Pali (SW of Jodhpur): Named after the Paliwal Brahmins who once inhabited the area, Pali once housed a highly evolved civilization. The ancient Naulakha Jain temple has elaborate carvings while Somnath Shiv temple is known for its handsome moldings.

Location :
In Rajasthan, 336 km E of Jaipur

Go there for :
Palaces, Forts

Climate :
20°-45°C (Sum); 5°-6°C (Win)

When to Go:
Oct-Mar

Local Tongue:
Marwari, Hindi

Literacy :
67%

STD Code :
+91 - 291

BIKANER - WEST INDIA

2009-03-07T12:23:00.004+08:00

Bikaner-snacks & sands medley

Bikaner on the edge of Thar desert, in the Northern Rajasthan is braided with curiously old, yet fresh looking colorful havelis, serene temples, especially the one where thousand rats are fed everyday, and some brilliant Indo-Mughal architectural specimens. But if you ask an Indian, other than a localite there, then way before the said attractions, what will come to his mind is the famous Bikaner bhujia (a gram-flour snack). Be it the foodies or the archaeologist, or the shopaholics with a taste for ethnic stuff, Bikaner, is a must-go once there in Rajasthan. The annual Camel Festival every January and the Camel Research Farm, makes it the camel's favorite joint, other than the tourists with a fixation for riding this otherwise ugly desert beast.

Tale of the City

Bikaner was named after its founder Rao Bika Ji - the son of Rao Jodha - a descendant of the founder of Jodhpur. Bika Ji found this place on the camel trade route most befitting to lay his capital and build it into an impressive city. Take a look at its attractions.

Attractions

Junagarh Fort (Timings: 10am-4:30pm): This 16th century Raja Rai Singh (a general in Akbar's army) fort has 37 bastions and a 986 m long wall to protect within quiet a legion of palaces - the Chandra Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Karn Mahal (to commemorate victory over Auranzeb), Rang Mahal, Bijai Mahal, Durga Niwas, Ganga Niwas, Anup Mahal - to name a few of its 37 palaces, each unique with elaborate carvings and a splash of sandstone magic. The formidable fort is encircled by a moat and it houses a museum (Prachina Museum), library of Persian and Sanskrit manuscripts and armory.

Lalgarh Palace: The Bikaner royalty still lives in a part of this beautiful red sandstone building embellished with some amazing lattice work. This oriental architectural orchestra with Rajput, Islam and European elements, termed Indo-Seresanic style, was designed by Col. Sir Swinton Jacob. The hunting trophies of some hundreds of Indian wildlife, a library branded fourth largest in the world, clay pigeon trap, an inhouse 22-rooms museum (Shri Sadul museum) with a collection of old photographs and many more items - make the red palace an exotic wonderland. A part of it is now a luxury hotel.

Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum (Open: 10.30am-4.30pm/Friday closed): If you have an eye for archaeological remains then the pre-Harappan, Gupta and Kushan dynasties, terracotta, pottery, miniature paintings of the Bikaner school, coins, armory - surely will set your nerves pulsating. This museum, established in 1937 on the eve of the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Maharaja Ganga Singh is one precious chunk of the bygone age preserved covetously.

Camel Research Center: Head for Jorbeer to have a sneak peek at the making of the Ship of the Desert! The camel breeding farm here (only one in Asia), a remnant of the camel Corp of the british army, boasts of more than 250 head-counts and whether you find the regular ones boisterous, the young camels are simply pretty.

Rajasthan State Archives (Timing: 10.30am-4.30pm/Sunday closed): A researcher-favorite, here is an indispensable collection of the administrative record of Mughal period like Persian Farmans, Vakil Report and various records created during administration of the Princely states of Rajasthan. It is furthermore bettered, with facilities like microfilming, reference library and research rooms available to researchers.

Bhandasa Jain Temple: This 15th century shrine of fifth tirthankara has Italian marbled floor, English tiled interior, bright frescoes, gold-leaf paintings - a beauty apart from its counterpart temples.

Havelis: Bikaner too has her share of the majestic havelis (mansions) where the noble and the wealthy dwell. What makes these havelis of tourist interest is their intricate craftsmanship and sprawling courtyards. The Gogagate, Daddhon Ka Chowk, Rangari Chowk, Assanion Ka Chowk, Mohta Chowk, Binnanion Ka Chowk Daga Chowk, BK School and Jassuar Gate, are areas where you see them in peppered prominently.

Heritage on Wheels: What can be a better and more interesting journey to discover the heritage and culture of an incredibly diverse nation than in a Luxury Train. The laid-back and relaxed journey takes you through the popular and off-the-beaten track destinations in Rajasthan like Jaipur, Bikaner, Haat, Gajner, Tal Chhapar, Ramgarh, Nawalgarh and Mandawa and finally takes you to the see the Taj Mahal in Agra.

Shopping

Who would mind some extra baggage when you have landed in one of India's most ethnic markets. Look out for Mojari (Bikaneri style footwear), Kundan work jewelery (stones hemmed with gold foil), rangi dupatta, wooden antiques, Lacquer Bangles, carpets, camel-hide products and bandhni (tie-and-dye) sarees. Some exquisite traditional buys will be Rajasthani puppets, mirror-work cushion covers, handloom shawls and so on. Bikaner is not exactly a place that can turn a shopaholic paranoid with its exciting options, but you are sure to come back to your lodge with bags full of souvenirs.
Cuisine

The very mention of Bikaner rings a different bell in an Indian gourmet's mind. Well, it is the famous Bikaner bhujia (a popular Indian snack made of gram flour) and this is another thing you can load your bags with for those quiet winter evenings, with a cup of tea. Since, this desertland has been an erstwhile warring nation, scarcity of water, greens, required the food to be preserved for a long time. Hence, Bikaneri food has less water, more of buttermilk, dried beans, gram flour and so on. The popular delicacies are dal-bati-churma, Raj Bhog, Gaund Pak, Ghevar, Fini, and Rabri.
Try Chhotu Motu Joshi Sweet Shop for sweets and snacks. For South Indian and Chinese cuisine go to Deluxe Restaurant.

Snippets

The National Research Center on Camel: Ever tasted camel milk products? Try Kulfi, soft cheese, flavored milk all made of camel milk developed, evaluated and sold at camel milk products parlor at NRCC.

The Camel Festival: The annual Camel Festival held every January is organized by the Tourism Department, and is a raging favorite for tourists all over. The festival starts with an elegant Camel Parade wherein the camels are decorated in all their finery. There are a variety of contests like the best-dressed camel, the camel with the best haircut to name a few. One can also experience the fine art of camel milking and gorge at the authentic desert sweets made out of the purest of camel milk. The evenings are a riot of colors folk performances.

Getaways

Gajner (34 km): On the Bikaner-Jaisalmer road, an architectural fantasy studs the arid desertland by a beatific lake - Maharaja Ganga Singhji's summer palace where he once used to stretch his legs after a tiring hunting escapade. Other than the pure oriental carvings, what makes the place all the more enchanting is the reserve forest flanking it with migratory avian visitors like the imperial sand goose and animals such as antelopes, black bucks, Nilgais, wild boar, chinkaras, deers and so on.

Deshnoke (34 km): Here lies a temple both revered and feared by believers. The temple is called Karni Mata Temple and legend has it that the souls of the dead, which were transmigrated in the body of rats, on their death would revert back into a human body. The floors swarm with the furry rodents of every thinkable size and the temple priests feed them every day.

Kolayat (50 km): Also termed mini-Pushkar, it is a Hindu pilgrimage joint with the Kapil Muni temple laced by a pristine lake. Take a dip in this river during Kartik Poornima (November) to wash away the sins of previous birth.

Katariasar Village (45 km): A tribal village with rolling sands and giggling women-folk with colorful dresses and who team their dances with acrobatic steps. Perfect for photographers to shoot wildlife in Bikaner.

Location :
NW of Rajasthan

Go there for :
Forts, Palaces, Temples, Heritage on Wheels Luxury Train

Climate :
28°-41°C (Sum); 5°-23°C (Win)

When to Go:
Oct-Mar

Local Tongue:
Hindi, Rajasthani

Literacy :
66%

STD Code :
+91 - 151

MOUNT ABU HILL STATION - WEST INDIA

2009-03-07T12:11:00.003+08:00

Mount Abu - oasis of Rajasthan

At about 4000 ft. above the sea level, Mount Abu is Rajasthan's only hill station sculpted in the Aravalli ranges. Legend has it that the place derived its name from Arbuda, a serpent who rescued Lord Shiva's bull, Nandi. An otherwise honeymooning treasure trove, the place is more renowned as a pilgrimage destination with its Dilwara Jain temples. The winding route to this summer retreat feels like a foray into a different world altogether. Visitors submit to nature completely and head for the Sunset Point to get infatuated by Her piquant antics.

Attractions

Dilwara Temples: The five marbled marvels built between 11th & 13th century AD enshrine the Jain tirthankaras (enlightened ones) and remains swarmed with pilgrims from across the world. Entry is free; but no shoes, cameras or transistors are allowed in. Non-Jains can visit between noon and 6 pm daily.

Gaumukh Temple (Vashistha Ashram): Of the many sages and seers who had their retreats on Mt. Abu, the most legendary was sage Vashistha. The temple was the site of his 'agnikund' fire rituals. The natural spring gushing out of the marbled cow (Nandi, Shiva's vehicle) creates an awe-inspiring spectacle not to be missed. It is accessible by car or jeep up to 3 km, from where a descent of 750 steps has to be covered on foot.

Govt. Museum: The museum was set up in 1962 within the premises of Raj Bhawan to preserve the archaeological wealth of the region. It also has Jain bronze carvings, brassworks etc., for viewing.

Nakki lake: The legend goes that gods actually etched out this spring using their fingernails ('nakh' means nail). The turquoise waters pose invitingly for boating cruises in India's only artificial lake roosted at 3937 ft. high. South-west of the lake, watch the sun douse between the Aravalli mountains. Nearby is the 14th century Raghunath Temple.

Summer Festival: Every June, Mount Abu bursts into a medley of tourists, pilgrims, folk performances, boat races at the Nakki lake, musical events like Sham-e-Qawwali, fireworks and what not, during the 3-day Summer Festival.

Adventure trails: Aravalli ranges heart-throb, Mount Abu at 4000 ft., is just perfect for those long treks and rock-climbing escapades. The resorts and the tour packages have such provisions for the adventure enthusiasts.

Shopping

Curios in marble, sandalwood and sandstone can be bought from the shops around Nakki Lake. Kota saris, linen with Sanganeri prints and bangles are also available. For Rajasthani Handicrafts there is Rajasthali, Rajasthan Government Handicrafts Emporium and Khadi Bhandar.

Cuisine

The cuisine here is basically a blend of Rajasthani and Gujrati tables, since Mount Abu lies so close to Gujarat.

Haveli, Nakki Lake Road serves delectable Gujarati thalis and Punjabi food. Maharaja, at Maharaja Hotel is renowned for Gujarati thalis. And if you want to sample some fast food try Veena, at Nakki Lake Road.

Getaways

Gurushikhar (15 km): About 15 km from the main town is the highest peak on the mount at 1722 m from where jaw-slacking views of the entire purlieu can be had. Don't forget to carry your video camera. A small shrine and a temple of Dattatreya standing on the shikhar are worth a visit.

Trevor's Tank (5 km): Constructed years back by a British engineer and hence, named after him, the Trevor's Tank is a must-visit for bird-lovers. The common sightings to expect if you have made your mind to visit are peacocks and pigeons.

Achalgarh (8 km): Drive to this mammoth 14th century Fort that houses some of the most beautiful Jain temples. The 1513 AD Kantinath Jain Temple, the 1412 AD Achaleswar Mahadev Temple and the neighboring sculpture of Parmar Dharavarsh and Mandakini Kund are popular tourist attractions here.

Location :
SW Rajasthan, West India

Go there for :
Honeymoon, Dilwara temples

Climate :
23°-33°C (Sum); 11°-28°C (Win)

When to Go:
Feb-May, Sep-Dec

Local Tongue:
Rajasthani, Hindi

STD Code :
+91 - 2974

JAISALMER - WEST INDIA

2009-03-07T11:30:00.003+08:00

Jaisalmer is ‘blue-blood’ of the desertland - Rajasthan. And without flipping the pages of the Government records, we can stick to the statement for here is the true Thar city replete with a 250 ft yellowed Fort guarding a city where sand dunes roll to the plaintive strain of Rudaalis (a Rajasthani mourner) and the slush of embroidered skirts as women frolic about amidst mighty havelis (mansions).

Tale of the City

The princely city was once a busy sea-port during the British era. But with Bombay shooting into limelight, replaced the traditional land routes. And finally the partition of India in 1947 spelled ‘the end’ for this desertland with the closing of all the trade routes on the Indo-Pak border and Jaisalmer turned into a drought-prone forgotten desert backwater on the international border. This continued till the Tourism industry turned their flashlights to its treasure trove of forts and palaces and the rest is history.

Attractions

Jaisalmer Fort: This 12th century Fort, standing tall and aloof almost 30m above the city on Trikuta Hill, emanates a golden-yellow halo, further accentuated by the 30 ft high sandstone walls and 99 turrets. The Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhoot Pol, Hawa Pol are its many entrances. Antiquity apart, what makes it a fort with a difference, a site that inspired famed Indian director Satyajit Ray for the novel-turned-movie Sonar Kella (the Golden Fortress), is an alive city pulsating in its interiors along Jain temples, shops, Jaisalmer’s oldest seven story palace (Raj Mahal), and what not. The lanes inside are twisting and at times so narrow that it can be blocked by a single cow. Amongst the Jain temples, the best ones, Rishabnath and Sambhavnath, are open to non-Jains between 7am and noon. Head for the Toap Khana (Place of Cannon) and from there let your eyes sashay the entire locality. If you hear bhajans (Hindu spiritual songs) loud and clear, then that must be from the Laxminath Temple nearby. A visit there too is recommended.

Havelis: Incase you are wondering what is this hung-ho about havelis, they are basically ethnic, ornate sandstone mansions of the Jaisalmer wealthy merchants with spacious courtyards, relief carvings, filigreed windows, and lacelike screens and jarokhas (small projecting balconies). The Jaisalmer Fort encloses a handful of havelis, but the best ones are there dotted down in the town. The most infatuating ones are the Patwon ki Haveli (five-story, largest of all), Salim Singh ki Haveli (with a beautifully arched roof capped with blue cupolas and carved brackets in the form of peacocks), and Nathmalji ki Haveli (ornate with interesting carvings). Some of the havelis are as old as 300 years and one will be but awed to witness the freshness they still exude.

Gadi Sagar Tank: South of the city walls is this once water source of the entire town. The legion of temples and shrines around this water-hole and the multi-colored avian invaders that make a foray every winter, make this place a fine rejuvenatory. The beautiful arched gateway to the tank is believed to have been built by a prostitute who also added a Krishna temple so that the then king could not tear it down.

Museums: The Jaisalmer Folklore Museum is a private Museum that boasts of an interesting heirloom of handicrafts, depiction of the love story of Princess Moomal and King Mahendra and so on. The other Museums you can drop by are the Government Museum and the Desert Culture Center & Museum.

Camel Safari: Camping amidst endless sands, frolicking the locales on the bestial camel, trekking to the sites, bonfires at night - are activities that make your desert tour stand apart from the rest other then the sun-tan and the dust. You can check out our exciting desert safari packages that are a fine enmesh of such activities and sightseeing.

Shopping

The best buys at Jaisalmer are wooden boxes with intricate carvings, ethnic rugs, hand-woven blankets, shawls woven in typical Rajasthani handiwork with mirror-works, silver jewelery, trinkets and dextrous embroidered fabrics. The major shopping arcades are Sadar Bazar, Sonaron ka Bas, Manak Chowk, Pansari Bazar and so on. The Govt. Emporiums are the safest bets anytime. Khadi Gram Udyog Emporiums are also recommended. Barmer Embroidery House (near Patwon ki Haveli) owned by Abhimanyu Rathi, legendary for his fine eye for antique textiles is another place you should not miss.

Cuisine

Once there, instead of opting for your continental palate, you must dare the typically fiery Rajasthani cuisine. Tango your taste buds with the the famed gatta curry, macchi/maas sulas, lal/safed maas and the ever present ker-sangri. Add to it the local musicians playing some exotic tune that take you right in the midst of rolling sand dunes and caravans with eyes closed. For desserts you have a variety of sweetmeats to devour. The Trio Restaurant, Gopa Chowk, Kalpana Khana, Monica Restaurant, Saffron, Bikaner, Natraj Restaurants, Top Deck are some of the best and safe bets for delectable dishes. And the escapade inside the Fort leaves you hungry, you can drop by at 8 July Restaurant and Little Tibet.
Snippets

Desert Festival: Held over three days in Jan/Feb every year, this is when the Kalbelia dances (gypsies and snake charmers), folk songs, fire dancers - all benchmark traditional performances, can be enjoyed. Besides, turban-tying contest, camel races, Mr. Desert contest are other spicy add-ons to this already popular festival.

Bollywood take on Jaisalmer: Director Samir Karnik (of Kyun Ho Gaya Na fame) is coming up with a Bobby Deol starer flick called “Nanhe Jaisalmer”, about a kid who calls himself Nanhe Jaisalmer (little Jaisalmer), and spreads the news that his camel is the best out there. What else lies in store remains a mystery, but it sure will be a good virtual tour of the place once released.

Getaways

Amar Sagar (6 km NW): A dilapidated Jain Temple stands amidst the ruins of an erstwhile palatial garden.

Lodhurva (15 km NW): Beyond Amar Sagar is the once capital-city of Jaisalmer founded by the Lodra Rajputs. The ornate Jain Temples and Kalputra (the divine tree) are attractions to look out for.

Sam Sand Dunes (42 km): An hour long jeep safari will take you to this locale of rolling sand-dunes. Even better if you jaunt on the camel to watch the vermilion sky engulfing the blazing desert sun with a Sahara lok-a-like spread before you.

Bada Bagh (7 km N): An oasis with a huge old dam awaits you at Bada Bagh which feeds Jaisalmer most of its vegetables and other products. Around the dam are gardens with royal cenotaphs and equestrian statues of former rulers. And if you have reached this place at sunset, turn your head to see Jaisalmer turn a warm golden brown.

Pokran (110 km): A yellow sandstone fort on the junction of Jaisalmer-Bikaner and Jaisalmer-Jodhpur roads marks this quiet town that was flooded with limelight when India carried out her first nuclear tests here. The furniture here is awesome and even better if you can arrange to ferry some home.

Location :
Westernmost in Rajasthan

Go there for :
Forts, Havelis

Climate :
25°-41°C (Sum); 7.9°-23.6°C

When to Go:
Oct - Feb

Local Tongue:
Marwari, Hindi

Literacy :
64%

STD Code :
+91 - 2922

AJMER - WEST INDIA

2009-03-04T18:24:00.003+08:00

Ajmer - aura of sanctity

The sprawling sands at this once quiet city in Rajasthan, has registered many footsteps ever since the peer (saint) Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti first stepped here and laid the cornerstone of Sufism in India. So revered is this place that both Hindu and Muslims pilgrims make a beeline with dreamy and sometimes tearful eyes, and lift their hands up in unison wishing and thanking the lord.

Tale of the City

A 7th century discovery of Raja Ajay Pal Chauhan, Ajmer became a a major center of the Chauhan power till Prithviraj Chauhan lost it to Mohammed Ghauri. Ever since, Ajmer has been the home of many dynasties that rose and fell, and the city passed on to another, and in the process left behind imprints of different culture and traditions, making it an amalgam of Hinduism and Sufism - and an exemplary one at that.

Attractions

Dargah Ajmer Sharif: Started by Akbar and completed by Humayun, it embodies Sufi tradition founded in India by Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti who reached Ajmer in 1190 AD. Intricate metal carvings, confluence of rich colors, heaped rose petals, satin drapes laced with dazzling zardozi, melodious Sufi chants and more than eager khadims (attendants) is what the tomb (dargah) has turned to due to its phenomenal popularity as a pilgrimage site amongst the adherents of Islam. Its massive gateway donated by Nizam of Hyderabad, a mosque in signature white by Shah Jehan, Akbar's Masjid, dome of the saint are grandeurs that await the eyes. Tradition has it that if your wish comes true, you must return to the dargah to offer your thanks. And if you are lucky to bump into a Qawwali (Sufi singing) gathering, your trip will take on a euphoric plane altogether.

Mayo College: Now this one is not exactly a tourist destination, but writing about Ajmer, Mayo College just cannot be skipped over. A British establishment of the 19th century, it was to educate the princes on the lines of an English Public School. A co-education now, studying in a palatial building that exudes an aura of a different age must be an experience of a kind. With special permits, we can get a student tour you around.

Adhai-din-ka-Jhonpra: Now here is an Indo-Islamic architectural marvel completed in 2 ½ days (Adhai-din). It was originally a Sanskrit college, which was converted into a mosque by Qutubuddin Aibak. Forty columns support the roof but no two are alike. Be it to admire its magnifience of a different kind, even in its dilapidated state or the intricate Islamic calligraphy - this one is something you should not miss. Check out the Taragarh Fort, built by Ajaipal Chauhan, perched on a hilltop just 3 km away.

Akbar's Palace and Museum: Akbar's pilgrimages to the Dargah got this palatial resthouse built. Today the interiors have been befittingly turned into a reservoir of Mughal and Rajasthani articles on display. Note that it here that emperor Jehangir read out the firman for trade between India and British East India Company, thereby paving the way for India's colonization by the British.

Nasiyan (Red) Temple (or Soni Ji Ki Nasiyan): This double-storey red-dyed Digambar Jain temple has interesting gold plated wooden figures from Jain mythology. The glass mosaic, precious stones, gold and silver work make it a feast to the eyes. It is open daily (8:30 am-4:30 pm).

Festivities: During Id, Muharram, Urs (the death anniversary of the Khwaja), Ramadan Ajmer turns into a pulsating beehive of pilgrims. It is recommended to check out the timings and avoid visiting during these festivals. But you can tune in to the Pushkar Mela during November a few miles away from Ajmer.

Shopping

Ajmer is famous for atar (perfume) squeezed out of rose petals. And this dates back to the age of Emperor Jehangir who patronized its use. As for the other knick-knacks, you can stuff your bags with some exquisite jootis or mojaris (sandals), silver and gold jewelery, tie-n-dye fabrics, block printed textiles (Rajasthani bandhni) especially , embroidered blouses. And if you have landed there during Urs (the death anniversary of the Khwaja), you can have some good buys as the local artisans congregate near the Dargah to sell their wares.

The Shopping arcades are Puraa Bazaar (upmarket items), Kaisarganj Purani Mandi, Madar Gate and Nala Bazaar.

Cuisine

Ajmer doesn't seemingly have any particular taste of cuisines endemic to itself. Its kitchens are a confluence of Rajasthani, Mughlai, Indian food, while the restaurants have a splash of Continental, Italian, Chinese and Kosher to tango the menu. Try the ethnic Rajasthani dal-batti-choorma and ghewar (a sweet khoya delight).

Head for Sheesh Mahal (a swanky eatery at Mansingh Hotel), Bhola (at Agra Gate), Honey Dew (Station Road), Jai Hind (Station Road), Tandoor Restaurant (Jaipur Road) for some scrumptious delicacies.

Getaways

Pushkar (11 km): A renowned Hindu pilgrimage destination, an interesting legend and the famed Fair makes it what it is - famous. Brahma, one of the Gods of the Hindu triology, was cursed by his consort Savitri that he would not be worshiped by those on earth, except at Pushkar. And hence the Brahma temples here. Come November and the annual cattle fair (Pushkar mela) makes it a swarming joint. Don't come back without a holy dip at the beautiful Pushkar lake. Another legend to it is that the 14th century Sanskrit poet and playwright chose this setting for his masterpiece Abhigyanam Shakuntalam. Banking it is the majestic Man Mahal, palace of Raja Man Singh of Amer, presently an RTDC tourist bungalow. The Pushkar palace Kishangarh House, is today a luxurious heritage resort.

Chhatra Sagar, Nimaj (100 km): Go there for some eye-warming sight of exotic birds around a more exotic lake (about 100 year old). And imagine the excitement if you can actually lodge right at the bank of that panoramic lake. October to March is the best period to head for this exotica.

Location :
In Rajasthan,
135 km West of Jaipur

Go there for :
Dargah Sharif, Monuments

Climate :
42°-48°C (Sum/daytime); 15°-4°C (Win)

When to Go:
Oct - Mar

Local Tongue:
Hindi, Rajasthani

Literacy :
74%

STD Code :
+ 91 - 145

VARANASI - EAST INDIA

2009-03-04T18:16:00.003+08:00

Short-cut to heaven

Born Kashi (City of Light) on the bank of river Ganges, christened Benaras and finally renamed Varanasi, this is one Indian city that has completely preserved its Babylon-old heritage and is ‘Indian’ in every sense of the term. This is also the land where the Hindus have discovered the secret link to achieving Moksha or salvation of the soul from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. Tens of thousands Hindu pilgrims from round the globe visit Varanasi and actually hope to die and blend in this holy land and get their ashes washed by the holy Ganges straight to heaven. The very dip in this river is believed to be soul-cleansing. Mark Twain, perhaps, gave the city its best appellation when he said Varanasi is “older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together”. Other than believers and temples, its rich silk brocades (the most notable being the Banarasi Sarees), ancient Yoga tradition and north Indian classical music --- all enmesh to give Varanasi a class unequaled by any other Indian tourist destination.

Tale of the City

The name Varanasi is derived from the names of two streams - Varuna and the Assi. The city’s genesis dates back to the age of the great epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana – some 8,000 years back, when it was called “the city of learning and burning”, and visited even by the enlightened Buddha (500 B.C.). Thus, its reputation as one of the holiest tirthas (meaning a sacred place where mortals can cross over to the divine) is virtually too old to be traced.

Attractions

The Riverfront : A boat cruise in the Ganges along the ghats at dawn or sunset is the best way to observe the ritualistic performances that animate these ghats. Dasashwamedh Ghat boasts of the most remarkable ambiance where young Brahmin priests perform age-old prayer rituals and the sound of conch shells and mantras compete with one another. Manikarnika Ghat, Assi Ghat, Panch Ganga Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat are other ghats worth visiting where pilgrims and sadhus jostle for a holy dip in the Ganges and incessant chants rent the air. A very prominent smell that predominates the Varanasi Ghats ghats (like Manikarnika ghat) is of funeral pyres, compounded with the smell of incense sticks and ghee.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple : This is Varanasi’s most sacred Shiva temple which is believed to preserve the original shiva-lingam in its Gyan Vapi tank. Its 800 kg of gold adornment has earned it another name, the “Golden Temple”. Go there to witness the religious fervor of Hinduism, so special to this Hindu-heartland. Note that only Hindus are allowed inside.

Ramnagar Fort (Oct-Mar daily 8am-noon and 2-6 pm, Apr-Sept daily 10am-5pm) : This is a 17th century palace that belongs to one of the former Maharajas of Varanasi. The Ved Vyasa (who authored Mahabharata) temple and a museum with interesting concoction of gold-plated howdahs, richly decorated palanquins, antique weapons, gruesome elephant traps, an astrological clock, and many swords and guns.

Gyan Kup : This is the “'Well of Wisdom” whose waters are believed to the source of highest spiritual illumination.

Gyanvapi or Aurangzeb Mosque : The mosque has minarets towering 71m above the Ganges and was constructed using columns from the Bineswar temple razed by Aurangzeb. The rear portion of the mosque reveals traces of its Hindu origin.

Banaras Hindu University (BHU) : Founded in 1917, this is India’s 3rd largest residential university with a classic Sanskrit School of learning. The Bharat Kala Bhavan and the Museum is worth visiting to have a dekko at the amazing collection of old manuscripts, ancient sculptures from the 1st to 15th centuries, old photographs of Varanasi and paintings.

Live performances : Go to International Music Center in Ganesh Mahal on Wednesdays or Saturdays for live Indian classical music performances by up-and-coming artists. Naach Ghar (Bungalow no. 25, Cantonment, near SSP Residence) is another place that puts on dance performances almost every evening around 7:15pm. Check out with our agents for exact timings and shows.

If you have time, consider visiting: A.B.C. Art Gallery (Opp. Tulsi Manas Temple), Alamgir Mosque, Annapurna Temple, Bharat Mata Temple, Carpet Weaving Centre (Bhadoi), Chhinmastica Temple, Durga Temple, Jantar Mantar, Jantar Mantar, Kaal Bhairav Temple, Man Mandir (Manmandir) Palace, Nandeshwari Kothi, Nepali Temple, St. Mary's Church, Tulsi Manas Temple.

Shopping

Benaras, to any Indian women, means much more than temples and pilgrimage. Yes, its the silk that gets woven into beautiful sarees (traditional Indian wear), that gets female tourists glued to its shopping arcades more than its ghats. Every Saree is a piece of art and unique with its beaitiful design and color scheme. The intricately designed Bhadohi carpets, instruments of Indian classical music, “Langda Aam” - a local variety of delicious mango are items worth trying and buying, besides Varanasi’s brassware, copperware, ivory-ware, stone inlay work, glass beads, bangles, wood and clay items. The best shopping locales are Chowk, Vishwanath Gali, Thatheri bazaar, Lahurabir, Godoulia , Dashswamedh Gali and Golghar. For best brass buys hunt Thatheri Bazaar, while for silk brocade and jewelery go to Jnana Vapi and Vishwanatha Gall with its Temple Bazaar and the state run emporia in Godowlia. Handloom House at Sigra is recommended for silk saris. Imtiaz Ali at Siddh Giri Bagh/Triveni Music Center at Godaulia is the best place to buy musical instruments.

Cuisine

Varanasi has myriad eateries good for Chinese and Italian to Continental and Indian cuisines. The lemony paapri-chat topped with yogurt and ginger-tamarind chutney is a Varanasi favorite. The legendary Bollywood hero, Amitabh Bachhan, shot to fame the Banarasi Paan (betel-nut & leaf, eaten as a mouth-freshener) in one of his songs (khaike paan Benaras wala) and you should make sure to try a bite once here at the paan-city.

In Old Benaras city, try Ganga Fuji for Indian/Chinese/Japanese cuisine, Ayyar’s Café for South Indian, Madhur Jalpan Grih for Snacks and Sweets. In the Cantonment Area, try Palm Springs and Canton Restaurant. Near Railway Stations, the best bets are Winfa (Chinese), El Parador (Italian/ Greek/ Mexican cuisine).

Getaways

Sarnath (10 km): Site of Buddha’s first sermon after enlightenment in 530 BC, this is a must-visit pilgrimage destination in the Buddhist world. The main shrine, Ashoka’s Sarnath Pillar, Dhameka Stupa, Dharmarajika Stupa, Digambara Jain Temple, Buddhist Temples and Archaeological Museum are names to mug up now and later visit when at Sarnath.

Chandra Prabha Wildlife Sanctuary (55 km): The main attractions of this sanctuary are beautiful picnic spots, dense forests, and scenic waterfalls like Rajdari and Devdari, besides chance spottings of Chinkara, Panther, sambhar, nilgai, blackbucks, porcupine, wild boar, python, gharial and some 150 species of birds.

Jaunpur (58 km): Its Indo-Islamic-Jain architecture mosques, Jaunpur Fort built by Feroz Shah in 1360 give this quaint village its place of importance.

Kushinagar (51 km): This is where Lord Buddha breathed his last and needless to say, a famous Buddhist pilgrimage destination. The town, once a celebrated center of the Malla kingdom, has many of the stupas and viharas that date back to 230 BC-413 AD. One of the important sites to see here is the Mahaparinirvana Temple, where you can find the famous 20-feet-long reclining statue of Buddha. Encompassing the temple are ruins of as many as eight monasteries.

Location :
320km (198 miles) SE of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

Go there for :
Temples, Holy dip at the Ganges

Climate :
Harsh summers (Up to 45°C); Mild winters (around 20°C)

When to Go:
September to March

Local Tongue:
Hindi, Bengali, English

STD Code :
+91 - 542

PURI - EAST INDIA

2009-03-04T18:00:00.003+08:00

Gods favorite beach

The Bay of Bengal’s most cherished shore on India’s eastern coast is Puri. Cherished, because it hosts the 15th century temple of the Lord of the World – Jagannath and cradles the tens of thousands of its pilgrims round the clock, round the year. A spectacle endemic to Puri and a major reason for its claim to fame, is the annual (June/July) Rath Yatra or the chariot procession when some 4500 devotees pull the 45 ft. high, 16-wheeled chariot through the streets in the hope of attaining salvation. If this one sound too frenzied, you have the beach and its myriad wares from sea-shells, prawns to crystals, the 13th century Sun Tempel some 35 km away at Konark, eulogized Black Pagoda by the sea-farers. Besides, Puri forms the Golden Triangle of Orissa together with Bhubaneswar and Konark.

Tale of the City

Originally known as Kalinga or Utkal, Puri was an important outpost at the Bay of Bengal linking India and Southeast Asia, until the Hindu reformer, Shankaracharya, declared Puri as one of his four mathas (centers for practicing of a new ascetic form of Hinduism). Scholars from across the entire sub-continent came here to debate Hindu beliefs and philosophies, thereby making Puri an epicenter of Hindu thinking. The four principles of Puri are Mahodadhi (the deep blue sea), Baba Danda (the main road in the city), Mahaprasada (the offering to Lord Jagannath) and Swargadwara (the beach, gateway to heaven).

Attractions

Jagannath Temple: Founded by Anantavarman Chodaganga in 1135 to enshrine Purushottama (Vishnu), the Preserver in the Hindu Trinity, today Jagannath Puri forms one of the Four Dhams of Hinduism and Lord Krishna (a Vishnu incarnation) is the presiding deity. The temple is ornately carved with tall shikharas. The inner chamber, supported by 16 pillars, is embellished with scenes from the life of Krishna. The Raths or Chariots of Lord Jagannath, his sister Subhadra and brother Balbhadra are taken to their aunt' s temple (Gundicha Mandir), a mile away to commemorate Krishna's return to His home in Vrindavan after a long period of separation from the people there. The Chariots taken back on the tenth day of the same fortnight to the temple. The temple also boasts of world’s largest kitchen where with a capacity to feed thousands of devotees round the clock. Note that the temple is beyond-limits of the non-Hindus. Lacing the temple are the Raghunandan Library (famous for its rare palm leaf manuscripts and religious texts), a Hindu cremation ground towards the South called the Swargadwar or the gateway to heaven.

Markandesvara Tank: Legends have it that Vishnu took the form of a neem tree near this temple. Devotees are found here in herds taking the holy dip. Other important temples in the town are the Gundicha, the Lokanath, the Sunaragauranga, the Daria Mahabir and the Tota Gopinath temples. And the holy tanks worth visiting are Narendra, Markandeya, Sweta Ganga and Indradyumna.

Museum and Sudarshan Workshop: Go there to see the replicas of the sacred chariots and the khondalite (same medium used for the Konark temples) idols. Buy some of them at reasonable rates to keep as mementos.

The Puri beach: Famous for its golden sands,sunsets and sunrises, the beach remains a sea of vacationers and devotees all round the year, bargaining with the vendors, swimming, sun-basking or sitting quietly watching the sun do its antics.

Shopping

For handicraft lovers, Puri is a virtual heaven with markets that boast of its appliqué (giant umbrellas, fans, wall-hangings), fine engravings on brass and bellmetal utensils, bronze bangles and pots, stone carvings, wood carvings, shale ((kind of rock) products, sola (spongewood ) carvings, handloom sarees, silverware and filigree ornaments (especially brooches and earrings), Patta Chitra and many more you will discover on exploring.

Appliqué objects can be purchased at the Utkalika - State Emporium in Bhubaneswar (there is also one in Delhi) that also arranges for shipment of large items like lawn umbrellas. Even better if you can go to Pipli (36 km away), where every household is engaged in this interesting craft and buy directly from the makers.

For Sarees and handloom items, go to Boyanika near Jagannath temple and Swarg Dwar, Utkalika near Sea Beach in Swarga Dwar. The important shopping arcades are Swarga Dwar area, New marine Drive Road, the sea-shore in front of the Swarga Dwar and Grand Center. Sun Crafts at V.I.P. Road, and Sudarsan Crafts are best for souvenir buys

Cuisine

With rice as the staple food, the tables at Puri are laid with a variety of lentils (dal), vegetable curries delicately spiced, seafood, saffron flavored sweetmeats and you name it. Interestingly, Orissa is the birthplace of the famous Indian Rasgulla (sponge balls made from milk and prepared in sugar syrup), made popular by the neighboring state of Bengal though! So do not forget to try this at its original homeland.

The Temple kitchen’s produce “Mahaprasad” served at the premises Anandabazar, is a much sought-for concoction. Abundance of coconut milk and yoghurt is another characteristic of Oriya cuisine.

The local cuisine is over-all scrumptious, less fried and less spicy --- meaning, tummy-friendly. Some names to remember when you are out searching for an eatery are: Sunatan for Vegetarian cuisine, Amber Restaurant for Indian/ Continental snacks, Chhotu Motu Joshi Sweet Shop for sweets, obviously.

Snippets

Lessons on Humility: During the Chariot Festival, there is this occasion when the Raja of Puri, called the Gajapati Maharaja, does the Chera pahara or dressed like a sweeper on duty in the palace, he cleans the space around the deities with a golden broom. This signifies the tenets on equality and humility that Lord Jagannath stands for and knows no distinction between a king or a pauper.

More Chariots around the nation: Car-festivals are common in India, but what makes the one at Puri Jagannath so unique is the labor that goes into its making. For the Rath Yatra, altogether new chariots are made every year and after the celebration, these are destroyed. The only parts retained are the topmost part of the chariot (Kalasha), the nine small painted wood carvings and the wooden horses attached of the chariot to be used again the next year.

The Jagannath Mantra (chant): Om Klim Krisnaya Govindaya Gopijanavallabhaya Namah.

Getaways

Konark (35 km): The Sun Temple with its magnanimous twelve-pair wheeled chariot drawn by 7 brawny horses is the pride of this small, but much visited coastal tourist hub. A beatific reflection of Orissa’s medieval architecture, the Sun Temple has been designated a United Nations (UNESCO) World Heritage Site.

Balighai (8 km): A fantastic beach where you can fill your bags with some of the most enticing beachside curios.

Sakshigopal (20 km): A must-visit after Puri, here is a temple dedicated to Lord Sakshigopal (Lord Krishna) and famous for its architectural grandeur.

Raghurajpur (10 km on NH 203): Go there if you are fond of paintings, for this quaint village is today prided for its attractive pattachitra and talapattachitra (paintings on silk and palm leaves) illustrations.

Pipli (36 km): Appliqué lovers should mark this place with red in their itinerary. Almost every household of this village is engaged in this craft and their batuas (cloth pouches) and sunjis (embroidered quilts) with intricate appliqué work make fine buys.

Location :
65km S of Bhubaneswar, Orissa

Go there for :
Temples, Beach

Climate :
In 30s during summer & around 17°C in winters

When to Go:
October to April

Local Tongue:
Oriya, Hindi, English

STD Code :
+91 - 6752

GUWAHATI- EAST INDIA

2009-02-28T11:26:00.004+08:00

Cuppa with Kamdev

Guwahati, part of the Kamrup district, is North-East India’s potpourri and a virtual epicenter with almost every soul from this part of the globe visiting it once in their lifetime, be it en route another destination, for commercial or educational purposes, tourism, health issues - you name it! The mighty Brahmaputra forms the very life-blood of this Assam metropolis both nourishing its fish-crazy gourmets, and ravishing its shores during monsoons. And Guwahati emerges phoenix-like and continues to absorb citizens and foreigners alike. Right from the annual floods, Bhupen Hazarika and Zubeen Garg (the favorite singers), Bihu functions held at every nook and lane to the Digholi pukhuri cruises, grandma’s muga mekhela-sador (traditional draping), Cotton-Handique (colleges) love-war stories, Kamakhya legends, Assamese films, Tea Auctioning - and what not, Guwahati makes finest sepia-memories to be cherished at leisure.

Tale of the City

Guwahati finds mention in the great Indian epic Mahabharata as the capital of the demon king Narakasura of Pragijyotispura. Another lore has it registered as the birthplace of the Hindu God of love and fertility - Kamdev (hence, Kamrup). The name however is a combination of two words - ‘Guwa’ meaning betel nut and ‘Hat’ meaning market, hinting at its commercial-connection that dates back some quaint age.

Attractions

Kamakhya Temple : Every tourist visiting Assam, religious or not, visits the Kamakhya temple at Guwahati. A 10 km drive uphill the Nilachal range brings you to this 10th century Koch King Naranarayan’s landmark to the kernel of Tantrism (not to be confused with Black magic) or Shakti worship. Unfortunately though, Kamakhya makes it to the headlines more than often for some other reason - the mass massacre of animals during festivals. But amidst the scholarly circle and believers, Kamakhya is a name revered. Devotees from all over India converge on this holy place during Ambubachi and Manasha Puja. Another belief is, blessings of Goddess Kamakhya may help a barren woman bear child. It is also one of very few Indian temples where foreign tourists are allowed to its inner sanctum inspite of its strict Hindu decorum. Also visit the Bhubaneswari Temple further uphill. Incase you are amused to the extent of picking up a novel while on your way, Assamese writer and Jnanpith awardee, Dr. Mamoni Raisom Goswami’s “The Shadow of Kamakhya”, is a recommended read.

Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra : Named after the greatest Vaishnava saint and the greatest integrator of the Assamese society, Srimant Sankardeva, the Kalashetra is a classic stopover for that sweeping-glance at the State’s culture, artistic excellence and heritage. The Central Museum houses objects and collectibles of different ethnic groups of Assam, the Open Air Theatre hosts regular folk performances and cultural festivities, an Artist’s Village, a Sahitya Bhavan with its rare collection of books and manuscripts, the Lalit-Kala Bhavan where some or the other exhibition, art and sculpture workshops is held round the year, and a Heritage Park. By now, you must have realized that once in Guwahati, it will be sacrilegious almost to miss out Kalashetra.

The Shiva Temple, Umananda : Go there not just to pray or seek blessing, but to partake in typical South Kamrup religious ambiance. Call it adventure or discovery jaunt, it begins at boarding the public ferry or the motor boat and ends in the same, but on your way back, the Brahmaputra currents will seem less fearful and you can try standing on top of your motorboat (with the herd of two-wheelers) and act out your Titanic-act (hands spread) or count river dolphins.

Cotton College : Life starts here and ends at places all over the world. Be it politics, drama, media, culture, this college has infallibly given Assam the best performers ever and over the years. Recently, on the occasion of the College’s Centenary celebration, the bee-hive of alumni from across the globe would have left anybody slack-jawed at the phenomenal ‘loyalty’ a Cottonian feels and will forever feel for his college. With some 8-9 hostels all over Panbazaar, it won’t be very difficult to get a clubable Cottonian help you tour around the college premises and load you with lores. Especially the Cotton-Handique (a nearby girls-college) love stories!

Brahmaputra River Cruise : With the world’s fourth largest river flowing by, a river-cruise is sine qua non for the tourists. Luxury cruise vessels like ‘Jolporee’, ‘Al Fresco’ offer a dramatic evening cruising experience with the vermilion sun melting into his (unlike other Indian rivers, referred to as ‘she’, Brahmaputra or the Son of Brahma, is an obvious ‘he’) azure waters, in the backdrop. You can also join the music troupe there with your favorite Bob Dylan number and enjoy your moment of instant fame.

Consider visiting these landmarks : Balaji Temple of Tirupati, Navagraha temple (temple of the nine planets colored red), Vashistha Ashram, State Zoo-cum Botanical Garden, which is the largest natural zoo of the country, The Guwahati planetarium, the State Museum, Forest Museum, Cottage Industries Museum, Guwahati Tea Auction Center (GTAC), Gandhi Mandap, ISKON Temple.

Festivals: If you ask for the best month to visit the Assam capital - Guwahati, it is undoubtedly April. This is the period when Nature decks Herself in Her best attires to mark the advent of spring. What Baisakhi is to Punjab and Vishu to Kerala, Bihu is to Assam. Locally called Rongali or Bohag Bihu. Celebrated on 13th & 14 th April, it marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year. The main attraction is the Bihu dance competition held at every bend of the street in Guwahati and rest of Assam. Both men and women partake in the dance extravaganza. The ladies decked in mugar mekkhela-sador (traditional saree made from a kind of silk), gracefully match their steps to the rhythm of the instruments. Some spectacles are best witnessed, words only diminish their aura. And Bihu truly is one of them, especially, the truly amazing movement of the waist of the Bihu dancers! You should not miss it! Consult with our agents or your hotel manager to find out the best venue around to enjoy the Bihu dance competition and the various local cuisines.

Brahmaputra Beach Festival, organized by the Assam state government, every year in January, gets the city romping with traditional contests like elephant race and kite flying, adventure sports activities like beach volleyball, kayaking, canoeing, hot air ballooning, para-dropping, wind surfing, and the most participated, beach cricket.

Shopping

Assam’s indigenous products like items made of bamboo and cane, Assam silk and Muga constitute the most recommended buys at the Capital City markets. Fancy Bazaar and the Pan Bazaar area has all the shopaholic crowd is the main shopping area and has everything from cane to silk in its myriad shops.

For exciting curios like cane jewelery, baskets and decorative items, jute bags, bamboo utensils and masks, countless local handicrafts, Assam traditional wear, visit Pragjyotika (G.N.B. Road, near Ambari). For those enticing silk and muga drapes and sarees, reha stoles, visit Kolpotoru (Pan Bazaar), Sualkuchi Silk House and Kumar’s Silk Center (Pan Bazaar).

Cuisine

An Assamese if often nicknamed “Khar”. You will soon know why. Khar is actually a form of baking-soda made from the ashes of dry banana-peel, once used as an alternative to salt. Though its use is now restricted to specific recipes, the lore that due to Khar the Assamese tongues have become inert and difficult words don’t roll out correctly, thereby resulting the appellation - “Khar khua Axomiya” (who only has Khar). This is added to different vegetables or cereals and had with rice.

Masor tenga (a cuisine that has fish and bottle-gourd tangoed with tomatoes), Bah-gaj (bamboo-shoot) dishes and pickles, Tomato tok (sweetened tomato sauce), Payesh (rice & milk-based dessert), kharoli (made of mustard seeds), different pithas (steamed or roasted rice cakes) and of course that peerless cuppa are specialties of every Assamese kitchen. Add to it the influences from the neighboring states and nations, that lend Assamese cuisine its tinge of Tibetan and tribal flavor. Non-veg dishes are a commonplace, especially fish-based. Pork Momos (dumblings stuffed with pork) and bamboo-shoot Pork curry is one of the local favorite, phenomenally popular amongst the youngsters. Infact the entire nations Momo-infatuation can be traced back to these roots in the North East India. Go to Momo-Ghar for that original bite. Hotel Paradise (Goswami Service), Ehaaj (Zoo Tiniali), Jooti Logai Kham (Near Ganeh Mandir, Ganeshguri) are names to mug-up for a lip-smacking Assamese thali. Chinese food is best served at Mingroom (near Commerce College) and Chung-Fa (near Zoo-Tiniali). Recently opened lounge-bars (Bluez and Traffik) give you the choice of both befriending the localites and soothing your journey-blues.

Getaways

Hajo (25 km West): A site where Hindu, Muslim and Buddhist pilgrims coalesce. The Hayagriba Madhava Temple with its giant ancient turtle is the most famous. Some belief that this is where Lord Buddha attained Nirvana and this temple contains his relics. Muslim saint, Pir Giasuddin Aulia built a mosque here which later came to be known as Poa-Mecca.

Madan Kamdev (35 km): History has been curiously silent about this site of archaeological ruins where legends hold that the God of Love, Kamdev or Madan was reunited with Rati, his beloved in this historic hillock.

Sualkuchi (32 km): An weavers village on the north bank of the Brahmaputra, famous across the globe for its silk weaving. The look and feel of Assam silk is best termed - enamoring!

The Manas wildlife sanctuary (176 km): Visit Manas, an UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its Big Cats.

Chandubi (64 km): The dilapidated cliffs and forests make beautiful natural lagoon a favorite picnicking spot of the city-chafed localite. Try fishing and boating in the pristine lake lacing it while the children can embark on a treasure-hunt jaunt.

Nagaon (120 km): Here, at Bordua, is the birthplace of Srimanta Shankardeva. Pose with the friendly deers or feed the fearless school of fish in the pond nearby, there is much more that awaits the vision there.

Cherrapunjee (1300 m): above sea level, known all over the world as the rainiest place on the planet. Cherrapunjee is 160 km from Guwahati.

Jatinga (330 km south): A sleepy village in North Cachar Hills, hosts a mass-suicide of migratory birds every year. The suiciding-spree lasts for 4 months beginning August and ornithologists from across the world flock here to study the phenomenon. Go there like a tourist and come back enlightened about secrets nature refuses to share with just anybody.

Jorhat (200 km/4hrs): The tea capital of the world hosts the Assam Tea festival (every November) where varied flavors of tea enchant tealovers and bidders from across the globe. At a distance of 20 km is Majuli, acclaimed as world’s largest fresh-water river island and has regular visits from rare migratory avian species. Besides, Majuli is also the famed center of many Vaishnava Monasteries, established by the great Vaishanav revivalist, Sankardeva.

Location :
On the banks of Brahmaputra, Assam

Go there for :
Kamakhya Temple, Tea

Climate :
34°C to 20°C (Sum); 20°C to 8°C (Win)

When to Go:
October to April

Local Tongue:
Assamese, English

STD Code :
+91 - 361

KOLKATA - EAST INDIA

2009-02-23T09:28:00.001+08:00

Kolkata - India's cultural kingpin

Kolkata, aka Calcutta, is the West Bengal Capital, third largest urban agglomeration in India, fourth-largest Indian city, a British capital for monitoring the sub-continent till 1911. Some tags attached, but these don't interest a tourist, do they!

The vengeful Kali (Lord Shiva's consort) is the patron Goddess here and the same passion, runs through the life and blood of the Bengalis. Be it the sacrifices at the pyre of nationalist struggle, the compulsive call of their sweet-tooth, a Rabindrasangeet (Rabindranath Tagore songs), political confabulate, film-making - the zeal is just enviably perfect. And before we head further, some legendary products this 'City of Joy' owes to the nation and perhaps, the world - Rabindranath Tagore (artist), Jyoti Basu (politician, CM for 23 years), Satyajit Ray (film-maker), Sushmita Sen (Miss World 1994), Mother Teresa (Missionary nun), Subhas Chandra Bose (nationalist), Ilish-masheer-bhappa (a fish curry), the Rôshogolla (a sweet), and a legion of writers, film-makers and what not. Come here to feel India painted in a different hue from what Delhi, Mumbai and the likes are!

Tale of the City

A part of the decolonization spree (that turned Madras - Chennai, Bombay - Mumbai) is Calcutta becoming 'Kolkata' derived from 'Kalikata'(called so before the British came), in turn, is an anglicized version of Kalikshetra (Land of the goddess Kali). During the colonial period it was called 'the City of Palaces'.

Attractions

Victoria Memorial: It is Lord Curzon's white marbled memorabilia for Queen Victoria, resonates the colonial era with its house of artifacts and impressive Western style architecture. Its 25 galleries, house about 3,500 articles relating to the Raj, plus the black marble throne of Siraj-ud-Daulah and the mammoth painting of a Jaipur royal procession (perhaps the largest in Asia). Don't miss the Light and Sound Show held everyday, except Mondays, when the Museum remains closed.

Howrah Bridge (Rabindra Setu): The third largest cantilever bridge in the world and an engineering marvel completed in 6 years, the gracious Howrah Bridge of Kolkata has a world record of being the third largest cantilever bridge. Its 71ft wide road has 8 lanes of traffic and 2 footpaths on both sides. As you travel, along with the 2 million that reportedly crosses the bridge daily, its 500 meters with no pillars in the middle, gives the spine a strange chill.

Birla Planetarium: Just near the crossing of the Theater Road and Chowringhee Road is one of world's most famous planetarium with an astronomical library and art gallery, an otherwise landmark (its dome shape) for tourists who feel lost and confused in this bustling city. Daily shows are held in English, Hindi and Bengali as the planetarium's gigantic projector recreates the night sky.

Eden Gardens: Now the name here is a confusion of sorts. Incase your mind is racing already, this place has got nothing to do with the Biblical Eden. And its fame as a garden is passe, considering its roaring popularity as a site for the international cricket matches. However, it still offers a quiet stroll along the banks of the Hoogly River, add to it a short cruise down the river with the Vidyasagar Setu Bridge silhouetted in the background.

BBD Bagh: The popular Dalhousie Square is just another one to come under the renaming spree. Benoy-Badal-Dinesh Bagh, after the three martyrs of Bengal, is the city's administrative hub with famed historical buildings like the Writers' Building, Raj Bhavan, State Legislative Assembly, Kolkata High Court, St John's Cathedral, GPO and Reserve Bank of India.

Botanical Gardens: Banking Hoogly, south of Howrah and sprawling a vast 270 acres, is this world famous herbarium with some 50,000 species of plants, the Botanical Survey of India, a 250 year old and 98 ft tall banyan tree, is the oldest botanics in India founded in 1786.

Dakshineswar Kali Temple: Flanking the mighty Ganges River, on the Kalighat Road, north of Kolkata is this sprawling temple with a Goddess Kali shrine in the center, surrounded by 12 of Lord Shiva. The great religious thinker Ramakrishna Paramahamsa is believed to have achieved spiritual nirvana, here and today pilgrims from around the world visit the temple to bask in its ethereal serenity. The goat sacrifice ritual everyday (that allegedly replaced the ancient practice of human sacrifice), however might leave one with a bad taste if sighted.

Paresnath Temple: This Jain temple at the Badridas Temple street, dedicated to Sitalnathji (the 10th of the 24 Jain tirthankaras or perfect souls), is more of an architectural orchestra with mirror-inlay pillars, marble floors with floral motifs, chandeliers from Paris and Brussels, blocks of glass mosaics and European statues painted in silver, gold-gilded dome and what not.

Marble Palace (former 'Palace of Arts'): If you have already had a dekko of Hyderabad's Salar Jung Museum, you will be amazed at the exactitude of this similar structure. Located in north Calcutta at Muktaram Babu Street, the conglomeration of some hundreds of marble varieties from across the world, pristine fountains from Rome, original painting masterpieces by Rubens and Joshua Reynolds, glass chandeliers and much more await your vision. A large pool near the small granite bungalow has ducks, peacocks and ostriches. It remains closed on Mondays and Thursdays.

Hangouts: The Park (despite its micro dance-floor), Someplace Else, Tantra are where you can shake a leg with Kolkata's hippest nocturnals. The evenings can be flavored with a visit to one of the many theatrical performances and cultural gatherings that are staged almost everywhere in the city. The local newspapers or your know-it-all travel agent will furnish the required information about venues et al. The Birla Academy of Art and Culture (108-109 Southern Avenue), the Centre for International Modern Art (Sunny Towers, 43 Ashutosh Chowdhari Avenue/Sun closed), the Academy of Fine Arts (2 Cathedral Rd.) are perfect retreats for connoisseurs of art.

Shopping

Home to some of India's best designers, the designer buys here are really worth the splurge. Some names to mug-up are Sabyasachi Mukherjee (one of India's bests), Kiran Uttan Ghosh and Shabari Datta.

Bengal's famous Tangail sarees can be had from Kundahar (10, Sarat Banerjee Rd.) and Ananda (Russell St.) For Bengali handicrafts, visit Dakshinapan or the Bengal Home Industries (11 Camac St.) or Sasha (27 Mirza Ghalib St.). The Central Cottage Industries Emporium in Chowringhee is where you must go if you want to pick different ethnic Indian stuff, not necessarily Bengali.

New Market, the erstwhile Hogg's Market, is Kolkata's oldest and most renowned shopping arcade on Lindsay Street. Right from leather goods, fancy silverware, jewelery, garments, fabrics, garment to dry fruits, poultry products, fish, meat, flowers - here is where everything can be bought right. Park Centre, on Park Street is the fashion hub with a wide variety of apparel, especially ladies' garments, cosmetics and electronic gadgets.

Cuisine

If you have a sweet-tooth, Kolkata is a paradise of a sort. Rasgollas (cottage cheese balls in sugar syrup) and mishti doi (curd sweetened with molasses) are almost religiously sought favorites. Others Bengali staples include curious names like sandesh, chanar payesh, and khir kadom, and more delicately sweetened gulab jamuns and halwas of North India. Try these at Ganguram Sweets (41 Bipin Behari Ganguly Street), K C Das (11A&B Esplanade East), Mithai (48B Syed Amir Ali Ave.), and Bhim Nag (Bidhan Sarani). And good news is, sweet-tooth or none, Kolkata is a gourmets Shangri-La. Sententiously put, the Bengali kitchens are where the gastronome is allowed to indulge in spicy, fried, tasty food, especially varieties of fish delights.Kolkata-Mughlai palate is what results when the Persian spices fall for the East Indian herbs and fish. Try Nizam's (1 Corporation Place) where the kathi kebab roll (kebabs wrapped in fried bread) was born. Shiraz is another option for similar flavors. The murgh mussalam (chicken) and the mutton chanps tikiya (chops) of the Royal Indian Hotel (147 Rabindra Sarani) are legendary. Kolkatans have a panache for Chinese platters and some toothsome flavors can be sampled at Mainland China (Uniworth House, 3A Gurusadary Rd.) and Taj Bengal's in-house Chinese restaurant, Chinoiserie.

Snippets

The Rôshogolla lore: Defying the popular belief, the Rasgulla is originally a Puri (in Orissa) product. The art was eventually transferred to Kolkata, and during the Bengal renaissance, and finally it was Nobin Chandra Das of Bagbazar (Kolkata) who evolved its 'spongy' form and threw it right at the international gourmets table. A popular limerick goes hence: "Bagbazar's Nobin Das, Rossogolla's Columbus".

Rabindranath Tagore: Asia's first Nobel laureate, Tagore - the avante garde poet, writer, philosopher, playwright, novelist - is a cult figure in Bengal. The English translation of his poetry collection Gitanjali was published under Yeats' auspices, and the Nobel Prize followed in 1913. The poems also appeared in Ezra Pound's magazine Poetry. The British crown's Knighthood was repudiated by this humble nationalist in 1919, in protest of the Jallianwalabagh Massacre (Punjab).

Getaways

Shantiniketan (212 km): Founded in 1901 by Rabindranath Tagore, a noted poet, writer and nationalist, this university resonates the Gurukul system of learning, where student and teachers reside together and learn the various aspects of life through practical experience and classes are held mostly in the open air, under trees. Noted alumni include India's ex-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

Digha (185 km): A classic fishing hamlet with an exotic beach on the east coast sum up for a perfect weekend getaway from the city hum-drum.

Malda (365 km N): Also called English Bazaar from the cenruries old British factory here, is a base for heading to the archaeological sites of Gaur and Pandua. Gaur has been the capital to three dynasties - Buddhist Palas, the Hindu Senas and the Muslim Nawabs. Pandua has the third largest concentration of Muslim monuments in Bengal.

Vishnupur (200 km): This slice of 17th-18th century with terracotta temples should not be missed. The endemic 'Bankura horse' is a popular handicraft item across the nation and once there you can buy some of its terracotta pieces to adorn your walls.

Location :
In West Bengal, East India

Go there for :
Museums, Art Galleries, Sweets

Climate :
38°-41.7°C (Sum); 16°-29°C (Win)

When to Go:
Aug-Feb

Local Tongue:
Bengali

Literacy :
80.86%

STD Code :
+91 - 33

TAWANG HILL STATION - EAST INDIA

2009-02-23T09:17:00.000+08:00

Monpas and Gompas

Your very route to this 11,155 ft hill-station - Tawang, will hint you about what to expect. Picture postcard landscapes flaked with sprightly colored monasteries (Gompas) and the sound of thundering waterfalls and hot water springs freeze your senses and you will have to shake your head to remind yourself, “This is real”! Bathed in the quintessential halo of Buddhism, Tawang is still more Tibetan than Indian. The grandiose of the myriad orchids and the warmth of the local Monpa tribes help you ward off the bone-numbing breeze of the Himalayas. God, the Himalayas and the devoted jawans (army-men) stand as undaunted sentinels protecting this land from the Chinese and evil-eye.

Attractions

Tawang Monastery : ‘Dramatically outlined’ against the verdant landscape is the 400 years old Galden Namgyal Lhatse, popular with the tourist-tongue as the Tawang monastery. It is said that the whole structure was brought from Tibet, piece by piece, on horseback and assembled here. Besides its famed assemblage gold lettered Buddhist scriptures, images, tapestries and the rare hand-written and block-painted thankas or manuscripts of revered books (in the Parkhang Hall), it is held significant in the Mahayana Buddhist world for the 26-ft high gilded Buddha housed in its inner sanctum over headed by a mural rich ceiling. The name of Tawang means “horse chosen”, a reference to the way in which Meera Lama’s horse wandered off on its own and discovered the perfect spot on which the monastery now stands.

Urgelling Mobastery : The 6th Dalai Lama was born of a Monpa mother in this monastery, 5 km away from Tawang.

Nunneries of Tawang : The Brahma Dungchung Ani Gompa, the Gyanganga Ani Gompa and the Singsur Ani Gompa are the important ones amongst the flock of nunneries near Tawang whose nuns are known to follow stricter norms than their male counterparts.

Se La Pass : Your very route to Tawang will be via this enigma perched 13,714 ft high (world’s third highest). The vista is best termed ‘enrapturing’ -- raise your head some 45° and behold the Se La Peak; next droop it 90° to discover the glorious curves of the Se La Lake.

Zimithang & the Lakes : The impressive Gorsam Stupa, the Tatsang gompa, the Khinme monastery and the Singshur nunnery here attract tourists visiting Tawang to this place just a stone-throw away. As your vehicle grinds its way up to the “Heap of Stones”, the LAC with China, lakes appear - bright turquoise or brooding gray according to the mood of the sky. The Sangeshar Lake, more popular as the Madhuri Lake after the Bollywood actress who starred in a film song (Koyla) canned here is one must-replenish beauty. The Lake freezes in winters.

Tawang for Adventurers : The rivers Tawang-Chu and Namjang-Chu are ideal for river-rafting activities. There is also an option for rock-climbing, paragliding, skating and other winter sport activities.

Shopping

The Craft Center of the Tawang Monastery produces fine woolen carpets in various colorful designs. Items that could make excellent buys are Serdukpen shawls, Apatani jackets and scarves, Adi skirts, Mishmi shawls, blouses and jackets, wancho bags.

There are Craft- Centers at Bomdila and Tawang producing very fine carpets of colorful designs and works. Carpets in ethnic Tibetan designs are very popular, made of pure wool.

Cuisine

Tibetan food is what you will find here at Tawang’s every eatery. Related Chinese cuisine, and lately, due to tourist demands, Indian food of the plains is also served. Apong is the local drink made from rice or mallet. Butter-tea is an Arunachal speciality and momos, a local favorite. The restaurants of your hotels are the best.

Getaways

Bhalukpong (52 km): En route Tawang from Tezpur, you can stop by at Bhalukpong before or after your main destination. Another postcard-perfect locale, for the North-Eastern vacationers this is one of their favorite weekend picnicking joint. The Pakhul Sanctuary’s wildlife embellishments and the Orchid Research Center at Tipi with some 600 species (including indigenous ones like “Ladies Sleeper”), are the prides of Bhalukpong, besides its gurgling streamlets.

Dirang (143 km): A concoction of some unique attractions make Dirang an excellent stop-over on your trip back from Tawang. Look out for the Kalchakra Monastery, Ngingmapa Monastery, kiwi and apple orchards, hot-water springs, Yak Research Center, medicinal plantations, Dirang Dzong (former Tibetan Jail), Sangti Valley (home of Black Neck Siberian Crane during winter). Dirang hosts the Buddha Mahotsav Festival every February-end with activities like Monastic Dances, Bay-Warrior dance, Sherbang Procession, flower and orchid show, food festival, hiking and trekking, traditional games and sports, you name it!

Bomdila (190 km): Another orchid-apple love-story will arrest your jaunt on your way to Tawang. Bomdilla is just excellent for your trekking, picnics and eco-tourism camps and the plummetted orchards, monasteries, forests, waterfalls and more than inviting for a day-long exploration - all on foot. The Craft center here is recommended for your souvenir buys. Irresistible, yes, but better save it to douse your Tawang hangover on your way back.

Bum-La (la, incidentally means a pass): This is where the Indian and Chinese force commanders on either side of the border meet every six months to sort out any minor problems. Bum-La does not have the non-commercial innocence of Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh separated from the plains by the Brahmaputra, reserve forests and the gradually ascending Himalayas. At Jaswant Singh Garh, near the Bumla Pass, the story of heroism of some Indian soldiers is retold. This is where Jaswant Singh of the 4th Battalion Garhwal Rifles held off the enemy for 72 hours single-handedly. Army convoys on the way to the border make it a point to stop and pay homage at the beautifully maintained memorial. The jawans (soldiers of the Indian army) at the outpost treat everybody passing through with tea.

Location :
At 11,155 ft near Indo-Burma border, Arunachal Pradesh

Go there for :
Treks, Angling, Monasteries

Climate :
Max 29° C; Min (-)5.5° C

When to Go:
Mar-April, Sep-Oct

Altitude:
Tawang - 10,000ft, Thingbu - 11,000 ft, Lumla - 8,000 ft

Literacy:
41.45%

STD Code :
+91 - 3794

DARJEELING HILL STATION- EAST INDIA

2009-02-23T08:35:00.000+08:00

Darjeeling - a Himalayan Queen

At an elevation of 6812 ft., this West Bengal hill-station, with its monastries and tea gardens set against the snow-capped vistas of the world's third-highest mountain, Mount Kanchenjunga (27,400 ft.), is just the perfect retreat if the mention of a cozy vacation peppered with adventure escapades ticks you on. Just as the flight of your imagination begins to take off, a quaint whistle of a century old little train penetrates the vista and you are reminded once again - it is Darjeeling!

Attractions

The Toy train: The century old Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, fondly nicknamed 'toy train', is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This engineering marvel begins from Sukna (533 ft.) and chugs up the hill to reach Darjeeling(6812 ft.) passing Asia's highest railway station Ghoom at 7407 ft. - making it one of the most treacherous rail jouneys in the world. The hung-ho apart, the toy-train trail is something should not be missed if you want to feel the spirit of a this paradisiacal land and of its humble denizens.

Tiger Hill: Roosted at 8482 ft. near the Ghoom Monastery and about 13 km from the town, the magnificient views of the sunrise over the Kanchenjunga makes it a photographer's dream-come-true. On a sunny day, the world's highest peak, the Mount Everest, can be spotted in the distant horizon. Flanking the Tiger hill is the Senchal lake with a 9-hole golf course (one of the highest in the world), a clubhouse and an exotic tourist lodge - that is a popular weekend escape.

Monastries: The Monastery at Ghoom, about 6 km south of the city has a 4.57-m high statue of a seated Maitreya Buddha (the coming Buddha) that attracts adherents from far and wide. Aloobari Gompa, about 3 km from the city centre, is a good place to drop by for some interesting Tibetan and Sikkimese religious accessories you can also buy as souvenirs. About 11 km from the city, with the backdrop of Kanchenjunga, is the colorful Bhutia Busty Gompa, whose library has the original Tibetan Book of the Dead, amongst thousand other Buddhist texts.

The Observatory Hill: For a good visual sweep of the entire purlieu climb up the Observatory Hill or the Mahakal Baba ko Sthan, held sacred by Hindus and Buddhists. The Kali shrine and the colorful fluttering Buddhist prayer flags strung between the pine trees make a beatific spectacle.

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: Perched on the Jawarhar Parbat, about 2 km from Chowrasta, is an institute for training the adventure mongers. Why you should go there for is the institute's collection of historic mountaineering equipment, specimens of Himalayan flora and fauna, a relief model of the Himalayas and a record of all attempts to scale the Mount Everest.

Zoological Park: Neighboring the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is the Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park that houses the Siberian tigers, Himalayan Black bear and the Red Panda. Not to be missed is the Snow Leopard breeding centre here.

Dhirdham Temple: Located just below the Darjeeling railway station, the temple is a replica of the famous Pashupatinath Temple of Kathmandu (Nepal).

Passenger Ropeway: Situated at 3 km from the city center at the North Point is the 5-km long India's first passenger ropeway that connects Darjeeling with Singla Bazaar on the Ranjit River at the bottom of the valley. A ride on this cable-car repletes the theme of adventure so typical of this roof-top city.

Adventure escapades: Trekking begins in Darjeeling and proceeds through Maneybhanjyang, Tonglu, Sandakphu and ends in Phalut. Teesta river is ideal for whitewater rafting.

Festivals: The Beni Mela is held on the banks of the River Teesta in January, the New Year for the Bhutias and the Lepchas. Tibetan New Year is celebrated in February and is marked by great festivities, religious ceremonies and colourful folk dances in monasteries. Every 14-20 November, the Teesta Tea and Tourism Festival is held here with cultural performances, tea estate visits and organised tours, treks and walks around the region.

Shopping

Shop for Himalayan curios like thangkas (Tibetan paintings), brass statues, Nepali khukris and masks, jewelery, woodcarvings, woven fabrics and bamboo baskets, carpets and of course, the famous Darjeeling tea. Chowrasta and The Mall are the shopping spots. For Tibetan souvenirs visit Habib Mullick and for local handicrafts go down to Hayden Hall.

Cuisine

Darjeeling momos (a steamed dough dumpling stuffed with pork, beef or vegetables) and thukpas (noodles in soup) are famous. Wai-Wai is a packaged snack comprising of noodles which can be munched dry or boiled. Churpee, a kind of cheese made from cow's or yak's milk. For the freezing evenings try Chhang, a local beer made from millet or the royal Darjeeling tea.

For Indian and Chinese food, check out Park (Laden La Road) and for wholesome vegetarian thalis and Indian snacks head to Hasty Tasty (the Mall).

Getaways

Kalimpong (51 km): A quieter hillstation at an altitude of 4,100 ft., Kalimpong is known for its magnificent views of Mt Kanchenjunga, abundance of wild orchids and educational institutions.

Mirik (48 km): At an altitude of 1,730 m this sequestered hill-station is carpeted with forests of Cryptomeria Japonica, orange orchards, tea gardens and cardamom plantations. Sumendu Lake, with its 3.5 km of cobbled promenade, offers boating facilities. Also visit the carpet-weaving centre at Krishnanagar. Trekking tracks to Kurseong and Sandakphu begin here.

Kurseong: The toy train hisses past this station midway between Darjeeling from Siliguri is Kurseong (1,458 m) famous for the Deer Park and Makaibari Tea Estate.

Phalut & Sandakphu: About 60 km away is a joint that commands the best views of the Himalayan grandeur. Giant flowering Rhododendron trees and a pointillism of reds, pinks and whites Dwarfs comprise of the en route trail. On attaining heights of over 3,048m, one is surrounded by skeletal trees devoid of leaves and branches, which are especially eerie when the clouds roll in and envelop the area. Sandakphu with over 650 avian species is an ornithologists paradise.

Rock Garden, Barbotay (15 km): The Chunu falls cascading over the boulders provides an ecstatic view.

Location :
500 km N of Kolkata, West Bengal, East India

Go there for :
Tea Gardens, Toy Train, Adventure

Climate :
8.5°- 15°C (Sum); 1°- 6°C (Win)

When to Go:
Mar-Jun, Sep-Dec

Local Tongue:
Nepali, Bengali, Hindi

STD Code :
+ 91 - 354

TRIVANDRUM - SOUTH INDIA

2009-02-18T11:33:00.000+08:00

The Anglicized ‘Trivandrum’, for the Capital of the South Indian ‘greenhouse’ Kerala seems a respite from the mouthful ‘Thiruvananthapuram’ (its original name), meaning the home of Lord Vishnu’s (preserver of Hindu Trinity) sacred Serpent Anantha. Located at the apex of southwest India lacing the Arabian Sea, Trivandrum is just the place to be if you are looking for some seaside Shangri-la with exotic lagoons, palm-fringed waterways, quite Resorts and endless leisure.

Tale of the City

The ‘city of seven hills’, Thiruvananthapuram had once been the port of call for Romans and Jews, Arabs and Christians. Legends have it that King Solomon’s ships landed here at a port called Ophir. Traders have been coming to these parts as far back as 190 AD for spices, sandalwood, and ivory. Even today it serves as a significant maritime hub.

Attractions

Kovalam Beach: Undoubtedly the most beautiful of Indian beaches and one of the best across the globe, drive south (16 km) from Trivandrum to find the exotic Kovalam beach. Ayurvedic spas, sea-food stalls, sun-bathers, water-sports, all make it an enticing beach front not to miss.

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple: Some 260-year-old Dravidian temple with a 100-ft gopuram, inside the East Fort in the heart of the city beckoning travelers to bask in its hallowed serenity. There is however strict dress code to be maintained. Men should be in dhoti, while women in sari and blouse. Besides, only Hindus are allowed.

The Zoological Gardens (Open: Tue-Sat; 9am-5:15pm): The botanical gardens in Trivandrum cradle one of the firsts amongst the Indian zoos famed for its huge trees and a reptile house with an interesting snake collection.

Government Art Museum (Open on all days except Monday and Wednesday; 10am-5pm): Popular as the Napier Museum, after the erstwhile Governor General of Madras, this building is a fine architectural landmark for the center of the city, just near the zoo. Besides the antique ornaments and costumes, musical instruments, intricate ivory carvings, a temple chariot, found there would infatuate any art-lover !

Veli Tourist Village (Open 8am-6pm): At the estuary of the Veli Lake, is a lovely lagoon that can be explored with rented paddle and speedboats. The sculptures that flake the landscape form a children favorite.

Puttan Malika Palace Museum (Open: Tue-Sun; 8:30am-12:30pm & 3:30pm-5:30 pm): The venue of the annual classical music festival between 27th Jan-3rd Feb, this Palace is a classic traditional Travancore style building with exquisite woodcarvings. The art collection and the other palatial exhibits form interesting eye-feasting for art lovers.

Indian School of Martial Arts (ISMA): This one is a must-visit if you want to have a dekko at India's 'crouching tiger hidden dragons' -- martial art experts down south -- that is. This 5,000-year-old martial art form of Kerala is called Kalarippayattu. Besides, ISMA's healing centre, famed for the traditional kalarichikitsa - a branch of medicine endemic to Trivandrum, and ISMA's collection of oltrivandrumnthas or palmleaf manuscripts are must-check outs for historians and the likes.

Festivals: The Great Elephant March (Jan-17-20) of decorated elephants is a real visual feast. The 10-day Attukal Pongala (18-26th Feb), celebrated at the Attukal Bhagavati temple is the most participated festival. Its traditional dessert, Pongala, made of sweet porridge, cooked in jaggery, coconut kernal, and plantain is not to be missed. Another reason to cheer if you are timing your trip in February is the Nishangandhi Dance Festival (21-27 Feb) conducted at Nishagandhi open air auditorium in Kanakakunnu Palace where performers from across the nation congregate. That means right from Bharathanatyam, Kathak, Kathkali, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Mohiniyattom and Oddissi the classical seduction is endless and fatal.

Shopping

Hunt for carved rosewood, Kathakali masks at MG Road. Visit Khadi Gramodyog Bhavan (opposite the Ayurvedic College, MG Road) if you are looking for those exotic Kasava sarees. Gram Sree, the village crafts centre around that area, is just the place for artefact admirers. Head for the Station Road, famed for its sandalwood and brass products, and the traditional Keralan bell-metal oil lamps. Savor the arresting fragrance of the tea and filter-coffee of Kerala, fresh from the Nilgiris, at Sankar's Tea and Coffee, on MG Road.

And if you happen to be in Thiruvananthapuram around Christmas time, ask anyone about Connemara, for this is the place you will have to head to for your mistletoe and wine!

Cuisine

Malyali cuisine uses coconut and rice in all states and forms. But surprisingly, Trivandrum does not really have a lot of options when it comes to good Restaurants serving their traditional cuisine. Coffee and banana chips are addictive. Good spots to buy the the best chips, fresh and tasty are near the British Library, or at a small shop in Kaithamukku (about 3km/2 miles west of the central train station), where A. Kannan has been frying some of the best banana chips in Kerala for close to 15 years.

Getaways

Varkala (40km): An enticing beach and an important Hindu center of pilgrimage, the hilltop mineral springs, a 2000-year-old Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple and the Nature Care Center are form the main and the must-visit attractions here.

Neyyar Dam (32km): This popular picnic spot has a high watch tower, deer park, lion safari park, crocodile farm and water sports facilities liek boating that make it one of Kerala Tourism's exotic favorites.

Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary (30km): This plush forest boasts of a reserve of some thousand species of flowers and plants, that includes orchids; endangered primates like the lion-tailed macaque and the Nilgiri langur and other fauna like barking and mouse deer, elephants, sambhar deer, gaur, giant squirrels, and wild boar.

Padmanabhapuram Palace (63km): Find this Travancore palace enroute Kanyakumari, famous for its floral carvings, jet black granite floor and original murals.

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary and Dam (50km): Spread over some 53 sq. km on the Western Ghats is a nature lover's sheer delight with some of the best concoction of plants and animals amidst plush hills, eucalyptus forests and verdant valleys.

Location :
Southern Kerala, South India

Go there for :
Beaches, Backwaters

Climate :
32°-23.8°C (Sum); 29°-20°C (Win)

When to Go:
September to May

Local Tongue:
Malayalam

Literacy :
90%

STD Code :
+91 - 471

HYDERABAD - SOUTH INDIA

2009-02-18T11:18:00.000+08:00

Hyderabad is rich, flamboyant, extravagant and imperial, just like her Nawabs, pearls, gold, steel, fabric and, above all, diamonds -- the 108 carat Koh-i-Noor, the Orloff, Regent, Hope diamonds and Jacob Diamonds - to name a few. Her riches apart, Hyderabad is loved for her architectural grandeurs - mosques and minarets, bazaars, lakes and kacchi biryani. Lately, the software industry has taken over the city, yet the quieter lanes still echo of history and nostalgia. Movie-buffs have another charm here - the Ramoji Film City, one of the most advanced and largest studios in the world.

Tale of the City

The Golconda Fort, some 10 km away from the city center, is believed to be the precursor to Hyderabad and the guardian of the diamond mine underneath. It was Golconda’s legendary riches that got many empires fighting fangs and teeth. The Nizam’s of the Asaf Jahi dynasty were the most influential and jealously guarded Hyderabad’s riches.

Attractions

Charminar: Four majestic minarets with a 180 ft. high central structure stands amidst the animated Lad Bazaar in the heart of the old city. The Charminar (Urdu: Four Minarets), a masterpiece of the Qutab Shahi dynasty built in 1591 to mark the end of a terrible plague, is the insignia of Hyderabad. The small open air mosque on the terrace of the monument facing the Muslim holy city of Mecca. Go there for a breathtaking view of the entire city and feel the so hyped grandeur of this “Pearl City”.

Golconda Fort: This irregular rhombus shaped citadel with a rough pentagon on the North Eastern side called ‘Naya Qila’, is the landmark of the once famed diamond mines Hyderabad so boasts of. The Kohinoor originally belonged to Golconda as did the Darya-I-Noor, the Orloff, the Pitt, and the great table of the Nizam. Consider strolling through the winding lanes of the little villages dotted around the Fort for your fill of those ‘rich’ diamond lores.

Qutab Shahi Tombs: Close to the Golconda Fort (1.5 km from the Balahisar Gate) are the tombs of the seven Qutab Shahi rulers. The tombs are surrounded by well-laid gardens. They can be visited between 9.30 am and 4.30 pm on all days except Friday.

Salar Jung Museum: World’s largest one-man museum named after the Prime Minister of the Nizam who was called Salar Jung Bahadur III, some 35,000 collectibles and 50,000 books dating back to the 1st century gathered during his globetrotting escapades. Open between 10 am-5 pm on all weekdays, except Fridays and government holidays.

Lord Venkateshwar Birla Temple: Pilgrims from across the globe visit this white-marbled temple overlooking the southern end of the Husain Sagar Lake. The temple is a classic synthesis of Northern and Southern culture that Hyderabad is so famous for. Open from 7 am to noon and 3 pm to 9 pm.

Mecca Masjid: This is one of the biggest mosques in India and can accommodate around 10,000 people at one time. It lies 100 yards southwest of the Charminar. The mosque is built on the lines of the Grand Mosque in Mecca, hence the name. Lores even have it that the bricks in the mosque are made of soil brought from Mecca and the door arches are made from single slabs of granite that were dragged to the site by nothing less than 1400 buffaloes for 5 years. The sacred hair of Prophet Mohammed is also one among other relics in an exhibition room off the courtyard.

Hussain Sagar: This lake conjoins the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. Good for boating and water sports, the pride of the place is the 18 m and 350 ton monolithic Buddha statue on the rock of Gibraltar in the middle of the lake. The making of the statue at Rajgir, 50 km from Hyderabad, took five years and during transportation, sank into the lake and languished there for two years till 1992.

Nehru Zoological Park: Some 3,000 different species of animals in this 1.2 sq km make it one of the largest in the nation. A lion safari trip, a natural history museum, a pre-historical animals park, a children's park with a toy train are some of its crowd-pullers.

Shopping

Once in the city of gems, needless to mention, you should load your bags with the best bets of pearl and diamond laden jewelry. The Laad Bazaar, around the Charminar, is a treasure trove of dazzling glass and lacquer bangles (some 450 shops and 2,500 craftsmen), exotic hand-woven carpets and some of the most inspired creations in silk. The zari (silver and gold embroidery) work and the print boutiques are undeniable seductions. You can even place an order of your favorite print on the fabric of your choice. Begum Bazaar, Sultan Bazaar, Generic Bazaar are other markets of use.

Antique hunt samples the charm of Hyderabadi bazaars (markets). The handicraft varieties to be checked out are the regional Bidriware (silver inlays in alloy), Filigree (objects made from silver, so finely crafted so as to appear as being made of thread weave), Pembarti (relief work in brass), Nirmal (wooden furniture painted with colorful motifs), and Kalahasti (intricate carvings on wooden furniture). Kondapally Toys, created in the village of Kondapalli, about 16km from Hyderabad, form another must-carry Andhra product. A lesser-known fact is that in Chandanpet (a few kilometers outside the city) an entire population is engaged in the delicate art of drilling pearls.

Cuisine

The geographical positioning of Hyderabad has conspired to churn out a unique cuisine with a strong Mughalai influence, dovetailed with pure Andhra 'hot-n-spicy' flavor. Hyderabadi Biryani ranks first amongst the delectable and popular Shahi Nizam cuisine, Hyderabad is so famed for. For desserts try khubani ka meetha (apricots and cream) or double ka meetha (bread pudding with cashews and almonds).

Hyderabad's claim to fame is its dum-style cooking (where the steam is locked so that the absorption of the aromatic spices if increased). Named fater this style is Dum Pukht (ITC Kakatiya Sheraton & Towers) and try kareli ki nahari (mutton pieces prepared in their own juices and spiced with saffron and cardamon), kakori kebabs (minced meat, cloves, cinnamon, green papaya are all mixed abd then chargrilled) that are served with sheermal (a kind of bread made in saffron and milk). For Hyderabadi biryani head straight to Azizia (near Nampally railway station), Firdaus (Taj Krishna, Rd. no. 1, Banjara Hills). For that scrumptious Andhra pesarattu (spiced mung bean flour pancake) eaten with allam pachadi (ginger pickle), go to Chutney's (Shilpa Arcade Rd. no. 3, Banjara Hills).

Getaways

Amravati (350 km): Here is one of the best-known Buddhist relics in India and the nation’s largest 2nd century Mahachaitya Stupa. Also famous is the temple of Amareswara, which consists of a massive Lingam. The extensive mounds of Dharankota located on the west of Amravati, together with Nagarjunakonda and Amravati form the Golden Triangle of Buddhism in Andhra Pradesh.

Warangal (157 km NE): Famous for its thousand pillar Chalukya temple and the freestanding gateway in the Buddhist tornan style.

Location :
Capital of Andhra Pradesh, SE India

Go there for :
Charminar, Precious Gems

Climate :
22°-42°C (Summer); 12°- 22°C (Winter)

When to Go:
Oct - Feb

Local Tongue:
Telegu, Urdu, Hindi

Literacy :
60%

STD Code :
+91 - 40

OOTY - SOUTH INDIA

2009-02-18T11:12:00.001+08:00

At 7440 ft., Ooty or Udhagamandalam (recent official Tamil name) in the Nilgiris (the Blue Mountains), is a sheer beauty and pride of the South Indian State of Tamil Nadu. Miles and miles of plush tea gardens, plummeting orchards, streets lined with green pine and eucalyptus trees and multi-colored floral diaspora give Ooty its sliced-out-of-paradise vista. The ersthwile Ootacamund (an obscure name for the sylvan beauty, isn't it?), is inhabited by the Toda tribes and the forested areas have a legion of wildlife, including the endangered Nilgiri mountain goat. What the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy train) is to Darjeeling, the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is to Ooty - indespensable and inherent part of the Blue Mountains.

Attractions

Botanical Garden: The 55 Acre Botanical Garden on the Dodabetta Peak - the highest point in Ooty, was founded by John Sullivan, the collector from Coimbatore, who is known to have first discovered Ooty for his summer dwelling. The diverse flora, including some 30 varieties of eucalyptus, and the colorful avian metropolis, attract tourists and passers-by alike. The Summer Festival held every May makes Ooty a bee-hive of various activities like flower shows, dog-shows, cultural programs and adventure sports like trekking.

Government Museum: Located on the Mysore Road, the museum houses a collection of tribal arts and crafts, the district's ecological details - and was set up with a view to educate the tourists about the Nilgiri purlieu. (Open: 10 am-5pm/Closed on Fridays, second Saturday, national holiday)

Ootacamund Club: This one the best preserved of all colonial clubs in the nation. You can go golfing or hunting or pick up one of the many activities offered by the club to soothe those worries away.

St Stephen's Church: Situated on Club Road, this gothic-style church is said to be the oldest in the Nilgiris. Its huge wooden beam came from the palace of Tipu Sultan in Srirangapatnam, carried all the 120 km by a herd of elephants. The attached cemetery contains the grave of John Sullivan, the founder of Ooty.

Rose Garden: About 3 km from Charring Cross is a 10 acre spread with 2000 variety of roses and lie on the way to the boathouse.

Ooty Lake: This 2.5km long lake is another John Sullivan construction and one of the most beatific spots in Ooty. There is a mini-train that takes you around the park or you can go boating. Fishing can also be done but with prior permission from the fisheries department. A tall pillar shooting out of the graveyard of William Patrick Adam, the Governor of Madras Presidency, overlooks the lake and on a quiet wintery evening, it creates a strange eerie feeling. Just 1 km away is the Deer Park.

Tribal Research Centre: This museum exhibits models of homes of the various Nilgiri hill tribes as well as a section on the tribes of the Andaman Islands. Toda researchers are available to give visitors a guided tour of the museum for that close insight into the way of life in the hills.

Kandal Cross Shrine: This Roman Catholic Shrine is the Nilgiri Catholics' "Calvary of Tamilnadu". The relic of the true cross here is said to cure the sick, bestow heavenly blessings, peace and joy on visiting pilgrims and tourists. Every 3rd May an annual feast is held.

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR): Declared a World Heritage Site in 2005, this curio covers a 46 km of treacherous trail in the Nilgiri Hills passing through 208 curves, 16 tunnels, and 250 bridges to reach Ooty. The uphill journey begins at Mettupalayum (1069ft.) and takes around 290 minutes to reach Ooty (at 7,440 ft.) and the downhill journey 215 minutes.

Adventure escapades: Hang-Gliding, Angling and Trekking are the activities to opt for if you want to tango your tour with some rush of the adrenaline.

Shopping

Toda jewelery, embroideries, shawls and a variety of endemic Nilgiri products like teas (eucalyptus, geranium, lemon grass, camphor), fruits, natural oils like Eucalyptas, honey are what to look out for in the ooty bazaars. The Taj Group's Savoy Hotel shop has a good collection of souvenirs. Also try out the cheddar, Wenleydale cheese and Planter's Special cigars made of Indian tobacco, at Spencer's Store.

Cuisine

The localite's taste bud is tuned in to favor typical South Indian cuisine. Go to Dashprakas located within the Hotel Dashprakash, south of the racecourse for some delectable South Indian cuisine and North Indian snacks. Shinkows, situated at 42 Commissioners Road, serve good Chinese food. Try Irani, on Commercial Road, for some scrumptious non-vegetarian cuisine (the menu's heavy on mutton and liver).

Gateways

Coonoor (10 km): It was the first of the three Nilgiri hill stations. Another 10 km away is the Dolphin's Nose Viewpoint which commands a majestic view of the St. Catherine Falls. The sprawling 12 hectares of Sim's Park here is one of the oldest and developed on the pattern of Japanese Garden. Some of the best camera shots can be had from its pristine heights.

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary (67 km): At an altitude of 1,140 m up in the Nilgiri Hills is the home to one of the largest populations of elephants in India, along with wild dogs, gaur (Indian bison), Nilgiri langur, bonnet macaque, jackal, hyena, and sloth bear, it even has a few tigers and panthers.

Avalanche (26 km): Best known for trout fishing escapades, and about 7 km away is the MacIvor's Bund and further away is the Mukurti Peak.

Mukurti (36 km): The 8,031 ft peak, the 6 km lake and a plethora of wildlife make thus place a sheer beauty to douse all tiredness. Check out Nilgiri Tahrs or the mountain goats in the Sanctuary flanking this locale.

Pykara (21 km): Go there for the well-protected fenced sholas, Toda settlements, undisturbed grassy meadows and some sudden, but regular wildlife pop-outs from the dense jungles. The Pykara Dam and the Pykara Falls add to the exotic aura of the place.

Kalhatty Falls (12 km): The 131 ft. drop of cascading water and the various wildlife on the Kalhatty-Masinagudi slopes draw nature lovers for some enchanting eye-feasting.

Location :
At 7440 ft, in Nilgiri hills, Tamil Nadu

Go there for :
Tea Gardens, Replenishing vistas

Climate :
25°C (Sum); 5°C (Win)

When to Go:
Nov-Mar

Local Tongue:
Tamil

STD Code :
+91 - 423

COCHIN - SOUTH INDIA

2009-02-18T10:55:00.000+08:00

It might come naturally to you to pass Kochi (or Cochin), as the Kerala Capital. No wonder, for this gorgeous beach-town is not just the most beautiful Kerala-cosmopolitan, but with its brimming coastline, enamoring backwaters, ayurvedic health centers, churches and synagogues rightfully positioned amongst National Geographic’s 50 top tourist destinations. Watch Kathakali performance, savor its seafood, dig at the antiques, try fishing with the Chinese fishing nets or attend a traditional marriage ceremony. Kochi is one place you will instantly fall in ‘like’ with!

Tale of the City

Kochi was the favorite seaside entry into India from the Arabian Sea for the Arabs, Chinese, European sea merchants and finally the Portuguese under Vasco da Gama in 1500, and the Franciscan friars. And what had been a quaint fishing hamlet became India's first European settlement. In 1663, Cochin fell to the Dutch, and then to the British in 1795. Each of these foreign influences left their impressions, resulting in a distinctly Indo-European culture, most evident in the architecture and lifestyle of Kochinites.

Attractions

Fort Cochin : A quiet landmark to this port-city, the Fort Cochin, comprising Mattancherry and Jew Town (that hosts a 1st century AD Jewish community), is a slice of sepia-tinted world, where they still speak 14 different languages and tumbled-down mansions line narrow lanes. Near the water's edge, old warehouses (or godowns) are filled with the state's treasured cash crops -- pepper, tea, Ayurvedic herbs, whole ginger, and betel nuts -- being dried, sorted, and prepared for direct sale or auction. Walk around at leisure and chances are you will discover something (curio/ architecture) belonging to a world you never thought existed.

Cherai Beach & Vypeen : Bordering one another, this is where the city-chafed locals arrive for a replenishing weekend. The beaches are beautiful; there is an old lighthouse and a 16th century fort. Get there by ferry from Fort Kochi. A typical Kerala village with paddy fields and coconut groves nearby add to the scenic beauty.

St. Francis Church : The oldest European church in India, it went through a myriad associations beginning from the Franciscan friars, Dutch Protestants, to Anglicans, and now this church finally belongs to the Church of South India. Something to keep in mind is, like Hindu temples and mosques, here too you are required to take off your shoes. (Open: Mon-Sat 9:30am-5pm; Sun 9:30am-noon)

Bolghatty Palace : Situated at the Bolghatty island and accessed by a ferry, is this once British mansion has a postcard golf-course and beautiful honeymoon cottages. Good news is KTDC has taken it up and made it into a heritage hotel.

Mattancherry Palace : Adorned with fine murals from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and some of the Puranic Hindu legends, this double-story palace is an architectural wonder. The Dutch maps of old Kochi along with palanquins and coronation robes of the former maharajas of Kochi are attractions you have to hunt out in here.

Jewish Synagogue : Here is the oldest (17th century) synagogue in the Commonwealth with some amazing hand-painted willow pattern floor tiles brought all the way from China. The Clock Tower, Hebrew inscriptions on stone slabs and ancient scripts on copper plates, along with other ancient artefacts are of tourist interest over there. (Open daily: 10am-12 pm & 3pm-5pm; Sat closed). The area surrounding is an antique-lovers paradise with a myriad curio shops, spices, furniture, artifacts, rare glass and beads, all centuries old.

Parishath Thampuran Museum : This hosts the genesis of Kerala in the form of oil paintings, murals, sculptures in stone and plaster of Paris, manuscripts and coins belonging to the Kochi royal family - all preserved in its complex of 49 buildings, in itself a fine example of Kerala architecture. The area encompassing it has a Deer Park and facilities for horse riding. (Open daily: 9 am-12:30 pm & 2 pm-4:30 pm; Monday closed)

Santhanagopala-Krishnaswamy Temple : About 8 km away from Ernakulam, this museum temple showcases history from the Neolithic Age to the modern era through intriguing life-size figures. One can also catch the sound and light shows, which have commentaries in English and Malayalam.

Find sometime to explore : Pazhassiraja Museum and Art Gallery, Willingdon Island, Kaladi, Vasco da Gama Square, Pierce Leslie Bungalow, Old Harbour House, Koder House, Delta Study, Loafer's Corner, Princess Street, Vasco House, VOC Gate, United Club, Bishop's House, ruins of Fort Immanuel, the Portuguese settlement.

Shopping

Your Kochi shopping spree must-have's are camel bone and wood carvings, various metal-ware, coconut shell decorations, cane crafts, embroidered pine mats and so on. Buy one piece each of the indigeneous handicrafts, that is. M.G. Road is where the shopaholics crowd at its various shops, emporiums and private showrooms. There's the huge GCDA shopping complex on Marine Drive, which should be explored at leisure. Antique shopping is another Kochi specialty and items to hunt for are rosewood artifacts, coir floor coverings and tablemats, old dowry boxes from Travancore, gold jewelery exclusive to the South, cotton saris, traditional khadi attire and antiques from Jewtown.

Cuisine

Kochi restaurants cater to both local and international tongues with cuisines ranging from Kerala cuisine to Chinese selections, American hamburgers, Italian spaghetti and so on. A permanent flavor you should expect in all traditional cuisine is that of coconut oil. The best food-joint are flaked around the at Fort Cochin and Willingdon area. Fresh seafood is an obvious favorite. And Kochi’s favorite palate will have rice, fish and coconut (in some form). Some restaurants you can trust for its quality of food and delight are Pandhal at M G Road (South Indian food), Bimbi’s at Jose Junction (low-priced Indian & Continental cuisine), Fry’s Village Restaurant at Chitoor Road, North End (spicy south Indian specialities like patthri, a Calicut-Muslim delicacy).

Snippets

Black Gold: In Kerala, pepper is referred to as karuthu ponnu, or "black gold," and represents the state’s international spice trade backbone. Consider a visit to the ginger, black pepper, betel nut, and Ayurvedic medicine warehouses, so very reminiscent of Salman Rushdie's The Moor's Last Sigh; or head for the Kochi International Pepper Exchange (Jew Town Rd., Mattancherry) to see Kerala's black gold being furiously sold off to the highest bidder.

Some Original names & Changed ones of Kerala’s cities:

Trivandrum -Thiruvananathapuram
Quilon - Kollam
Alleppey -Alappuzha
Trichur - Thrissur
Palghat - Palakkad
Cannanore - Kanoor
Calicut - Kozhikode
Cochin - Kochi

Getaways

Alwaye(21 Km):Banking the river Periyar, is this famous Shalvaite pilgrim center and a summer resort.

Malayatoor (47 km): Go there for the St Thomas Catholic Church on the 609 m high Malayatoor hill, specially if your trip coincides the annual Malayatoor Perunnal Festival (March-April).

Alleppey/Alappuzha (64 Km): This is the core tourist center for backwater cruises in Kerala and has often been referred to as the Venice of the East. If you are here in August, do not miss the Nehru Trophy boat race held here on the second Saturday.

Thrissur (80 Km): Former capital of Cochin, Thrissur is famous for the Vadakkumnatha Temple and is the venue of the annual Pooram Festival held in April/May. Buy some of its wood carvings and temple-arts are souvenirs.

Kumarakom (80 Km): Famed for its backwaters and the quaint village surrounded by paddy fields and the Vembanand lake.

Cheruthuruthi (100 Km): Go there if you are an art connoisseur to witness Kerala’s training center for art forms such as Kathakali, Mohinlattam, etc. The center is called Kalamandam.

Wynad: Located on the foothill borders of the state adjacent to both Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, is Wynad, famous for its temples, the Wynad Wildlife Sanctuary and its Lakkdi area known for its scenic beauty.

Lakshadweep Islands (300 km away in Arabian Sea): An archipelago of 12 atolls, 3 reefs, 5 submerged banks and 36 islands in the Arabian Sea forms a favorite getaway from Kerala. Only six of the 36 islands are inhabited and open for tourists - Androt, Amini, Bitra, Chetlat, Kadamat, Kalpeni, Kavaratti and Minicoy. They are the only coral reef island in India and rich in flora and fauna. Just the place for adventure enthusiasts who love snorkeling and other Watersports, Fishing etc.

Location :
On Arabian Sea coast, in Kerala

Go there for :
Backwaters, Antiques, Ayurveda

Climate :
Upto 35°C (Sum); Around 25ºC (Win)

When to Go:
December to May

Local Tongue:
Malayalam, English

Literacy :
94.3%

STD Code :
+91 - 484

BANGALORE- SOUTH INDIA

2009-02-18T10:38:00.000+08:00

Karnataka's Capital, Bangalore, has been embossed with new sobriquets ever since, reflecting its capacity for excellence. The erstwhile Garden City, still has an abundance of manicured gardens, but its cultural alignment earned it a reputation for hosting the best pubs in the nation. By the turn of the 1990s, Bangalore became the IT capital and was aptly nicknamed 'the Silicon Valley'. Home to more than 250 odd giant brands including the likes of Wipro and Infosys, and larger-than-life names like Kingfisher's Vijay Mallya, fashion guru Prasad Bidappa - Bangalore is one urban city unequaled.

Tale of the City

During the rule of the Vijaynagar Empire a local chieftain Kempe Gowda - whom many regard as the architect of modern Bangalore - built a mud fort in the city and established it as a province of the Vijayanagara Empire. This flourished to become today's hip-hep Bangalore.

Attractions

The gardens at Garden City: Various dynasties have left their imprints here, but the 18th century Ali Haider and his son Tipu Sultan are the the names embossed more prominently than others. Take Lal Bagh, a 2400-acre plush sample of the duo's regal taste. Located South of the city, it is studded with over 1000 species of flora (including species from Persia, Kabul, Turkey, and Mauritius), 100 year old trees, the Glass House (modeled on London's Crystal Palace), a lawn-clock, lotus beds, fountains and a 3000 million years old rock christened after the park.

Cubbon Park is curiously laid out with illuminated fountains and surrounded by Greco colonial-style buildings, the Bangalore Public Library, the Government Museum, the Venkatappa Art Gallery, the Technology Museum, the Government Aquarium and High Court. The museums have 10th century works from Khajuraho, Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, Buddhist figures from the 4th and 5th century Gandhara school, and Hoysala carvings from Belur, Halebid, and Hampi.

Ulsoor Lake: Cruise through tiny islands in this 1 ½ km lake that is the venue for the tumultuous Ganesha festivals held during August and September. For that sweeping view climb up the watchtower nearby.

Temples: A 16th century Kempe Gowda brain-child atop Bugle Hill is the Bull Temple, a majestic black-granite statue of Nandi (the bull-mount of Lord Shiva) that is kept glistening bright with coconut oil. Directly beneath is a three-tier Shiva temple so structured that every 14th or 15th of January a beam of light passes through the horns of the bull Nandi located on ground level, and illuminates the idol of god Shiva inside the cave underground.

Just neighboring it is one of the strangest statues ever. It is called Sri Dodda Ganapathi (elephant headed god), and is made of about hundred kilos of butter. Another interesting aspect is, this statue has to be remade every four years and the butter is distributed amongst all the devotees as 'prasad'. Visit the temple anytime between are 7:30-11:30am and 4:30-8:30pm. If you have heard of the famous Rath Yatra of Bangalore, well, the ISKON temple is the genesis. This modern building is Chord Road's landmark and the pilgrims come here to partake in the annual Krishna and Balaram Rath Yatra.

The Maha Bodhi Society Temple built as a replica of the historic stupa at Bodh Gaya is one of the pilgrimage joint of the Buddhists.

Monuments: The 18th century Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace (daily 9am-5pm) in teak wood, is a relic in a city committed more to progress than to preservation. And if you have time, consider stopping for the exhibition with texts about Tipu's and his father's life and military conquests - a brilliant peek into the region's heritage. Next door are the ruins of Bangalore Fort, largely destroyed during the Anglo-Mysore War. Exquisite carvings of religious deities and the Ganapathy temple located inside are views you and your camera should not miss.The Windsor Palace echo, the Bangalore Palace (City Center), with its medieval Normandy and English architecture and a touch of Tudor-style samples a piece sliced from Britain.

The neo-Dravidian style Vidhan Soudha, in M.G.Road, is Karnataka's State Legislature and Secretariat building. Watch it on a Sunday evening and with the floodlights it looks like a true insignia of Bangalore's glitterati. The 'Government Work is God's Work' inscribed over the entrance in gold makes one ponder of its pertinency over the years. If you cross the road, you have Karnataka's High Court, popularly called Attara Kacheri, modest and singular with Corinthian columns and red bricks.

Shopping

Bangalore markets are a concoction of South Indian buys and western branded wares. Right from the AC boulevard of Shopper's Stop and Kemp Fort to the bustling by-lanes of Chickpet, Kanchipuram silk to Swarovski crystals, Bangalore has it all.

The Commercial Street is where the beehive is. Textiles and garments, leather, jewellery, sports items - just anything can be bought here. M.G.Road or the South Parade is an entity in itself, more so, because of the youngsters that studs its lanes exuding the very spirit of the Silicon Valley. Once here, check out the Shrungar Shopping Complex, Barton Court, Public Utility Building, Spencer's Super Market, Natesan's Antiquarts, Saree Kemp, Central Cottage Industries Emporium, Cauvery Arts and Crafts Emporium (for Mysore sandalwood carvings) and others for fine handicraft, ethnic products and so on. Another name that sets the adrenalin of an average Bangalorean racing is the mention of Brigade Road. Interestingly, this used to be the area where once British soldiers bought their necessities. The westernized youngsters today hunt here for their's. The branded showrooms are roosted here. Residency Road is famous for steel furniture and handicrafts in metal, clay and wood. Also check out the government emporiums here.

Richard Square in Russell Market, is known for cutlery, crockery and household items. Chickpet is famous for its silk sarees, silver and gold jewelery and textiles. If it's metal items like brass, silver and copper ware that you are looking for, head for Arcot Srinivaschari Street. B.V.K. Iyengar Road has wooden products, plywood, paper and electrical goods. Avenue Road is best for its stationery, stainless steel ware and silver jewelery.

Cuisine

A traditional Bangalorean dinner basically resonates Konkani cuisine. The table is laid with of dishes seasoned with coconut, chilies, garam masalas, steamed rice cakes (idli), rice and lentil crepes (dosas). Coffee follows. Right from south Indian dishes to those from the kitchens all over the world, the restaurants specialize in many delicacies.
Idli-Vada in Bangalore
For authentic South Indian palate (Mangalorean, Goa, Karwar and Kerala style cuisine), head to Karavalli (Residency Road), Mavalli Tiffin Rooms (Lal Bagh Road), Konkan (Koramangala), Vidyarthi Bhavan (Gandhi Bazaar), Halli Mane (Malleswaram), Upaahara Darshini (one of the oldest and best) and so on. Amravati (Residency Road) has spicy Andhra delicacies served on banana leaves. Drop by at Nilgiri's Café (Brigade Road), for a fast bite at Mexican, Indian and Italian dishes and check out the prawn chips in the flanking supermarket. If desserts are what you want to palate, go to Herbs & Spice (Off CMH Road) or Sunny's (off Lavelle Road). For Italian delights, sample Little Italy (Indiranagar) and i-t.ALIA (Park Hotel). Shiok (Indiranagar) is for Thai, Malay, Indonesian, and Singaporean dishes with more than 60% of the ingredients flown in from overseas. Try lemon-grass chili prawns, spiced fish grilled in banana leaves, and Buddha's Feast. The lip-smacking list is endless and once there, you will see Bangaloreans can actually be sinful foodies.

Hangouts: The Pub City is more than true to its name. Western rock stars right from Mark Knopfler, Jethro Tull and The Rolling Stones to Joe Satriani, Bryan Adams - they have studded many a Bangalore night with their performance. Check out HiNT, Pecos (off Brigade Road), Nasa (Church street), TGIF, Tavern at The Inn (Museum Road), Opus (near Sankey Road), Styx (M.G. Road, for heavy metal), Purple Haze (Residency Road, for classic rock) et al.

Snippets

Art of Living: Bangalore is the hometown of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, a disciple of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi (he is the man who gave Beatles their spiritual edge), the new age spiritual guru and the propounder of the nonsectarian philosophy "Art of Living". Indian elites and those from foreign shores (San Fransisco has a phenomenal fan-following) swarm his hill-top ashram in south Bangalore for that special spiritual replenishment. Living life right is an art after all! The centers are spread all over the nation.

Spas: Bangalore's luxury spas have a prominent medical streak to it. The Spa at Leela Kempinski, Bollywood director Sanjay Khan's the Golden Palms Spa, and Angsana Oasis Spa have soothing massage sessions. Soukya International Holistic Health Centre (in Whitefield, 30 min from Bangalore) focuses more on therapeutic and holistic wellness programs (that includes Ayurvedic therapies to Hawaiian hot stone treatments) and with the classic visitor listing (Fergie, Princess of York; Archbishop Desmond Tutu; and healthy-living guru Andrew Weil), it must be some fete of its kind.

Bangaluru: India is shedding off all British leftovers one by one. This time, after Bombay aka Mumbai, Madras aka Chennai, Calcatta aka Kolkata, it is Bangalore's turn to be renamed Bangaluru, after Bendakalooru or the town of boiled beans, as it was originally named by an ancient king.

Getaways

Picnic Spots: Ramohalli is 28 km from Bangalore on the Mysore highway is Ramohalli - a beautiful picnic spot with a KSTDC restaurant. The Big Banyan tree there stands like some grandiloquent monument. Mekedatu, 98 km from Bangalore, is where the Arakavathi river flows through a deep gorge to meet the Cauvery River. Very picturesque picnicking ground with the Hindu temple of Lord Sangameshwara.

Banerghatta National Park: Drive 23 km South of Bangalore if you want ot feast on some exotic wildlife. Binoculars are a must carry to spot its exciting avian metropolis.

Nandi Hills: About 60 km from Bangalore is the erstwhile Tipu Sultan retreat with a 600 m high cliff called the Tipu's Drop. The Yoga Nandishvara Temple (a beautiful Chola temple), Dravidian-style Bhoganandishvara temple, the ropeway and para-gliding are what you should not miss out on.

Janapada Loka: 53 km from Bangalore, near Ramanagaram, is Janapada Loka or "Folk-culture World" - a subsidiary of the Karnataka Janapada Parishath dedicated to preserve and promote folk art and culture.

Mysore: The City of Palaces, Mysore, is 140 km from Bangalore known for its Sandalwood, crafts and several other places of interest like Srirangapatna and Krishna Raja Sagara Dam.

Location :
In SE Karnataka, South India

Climate :
23°-34°C (Sum);15°-27°C (Jul-Jan)

When to Go:
Sep - Feb

Local Tongue:
Kannada

Literacy :
83 %

STD Code :
+91 - 80

CHENNAI- SOUTH INDIA

2009-02-18T10:26:00.000+08:00

Chennai, the Capital of Tamil Nadu and the fourth largest metro in India, is a starking 368-year-old city that has wrapped up in its ambit much more than history, a political race-course, industrial marvels, a phenomenal automobile industry (also referred to as the Detroit of South Asia). The erstwhile Madras, was rechristened Chennai, as a part of the Indianizing spree of the Government. The tongue-twisting local language sounds interesting to the ears and the lovely oiled braids of the local womenfolk decorated with strings of flowers exude, both, an aura of mysticism and beauty, one tends to remember for quiet sometime long after.

Tale of the City

Chennai, shoring the Bay of Bengal, is the historical gateway through which the British first 'came, saw' and found the little fishing village a paragon site for their first settlement. The city grew up around the English settlement of Fort Saint George and gradually absorbed the surrounding towns and villages. However, the strong British influence has always been overridden with a stronger traditional lineage - so typically South Indian-like.

Attractions

Chennai Beaches: Welcome to the second longest (13 km) beach frill in the world - the Marina. What Marine beach is to Mumbai, Marina is to Chennai - synonymous and so truly representing the very pulse of the city. Early mornings are animated with the fishermen's hustle while dusk is when the real fun begins with picnicking families, vendors, food carts, couples, make it a living beehive. Knitted on the main-road flanking the beach are very-British ancient buildings, an Aquarium House, the Chennai Presidency College. About 40 km away from the bustling town is Covelong beach, an interesting locale if you are looking forward to basking under the sun unhindered watching fishermen in the distance Just 58 km, south of Chennai lies Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram with a sylvan beach, a crocodile farm, snake venom extracting center, schools of art and sculpture making it a popular venue. Elliot's Beach is spread along the coast down south from Marina, near Besant Nagar. This is where the nocturnals head for a quiet stroll along an equally quiet beach. Make sure to visit the Velankanni church and the Ashtalakshmi temple once here.

Fort St George: It would not be an exaggeration to state that Chennai grew around this first bastion of British power, built in 1640. The cluster of gray and white colonial buildings with pillared neoclassical facades now houses the Tamil Nadu State Legislature and the Secretariat. The fort houses the St Mary's Church, the oldest Anglican church in India. Look out for the numerous gravestones there, the oldest one being for the Latin memorial to Mrs. Elizabeth Baker (1652), believed to be the oldest British inscription in India. The Fort Museum (Sat-Thurs; 10am-5pm) has rare weapons, uniforms, coins, costumes fo the colonial era.

Religious joints: The Pallava's Parthasarathy Temple (at Triplicane, near Marina) is the oldest one at Chennai with some beautifully carved gopurams (arched gateway). Another Pallava boon is the Kapaleeshwar Temple (Malaypore), with a 120-ft gopuram painted vermillion red, blue and yellow and with Puranic legends sculpted on the sanctum sanctorum, giving it that 'awesome' look. And in case your visit is timed during the Arupathumoovar Festival (lasting 10 days in March), consider yourself lucky - best sights of the South Indian religious fervor guaranteed. South of it is the Mylapore's Basilica of San Thomas (Open daily, 6am-6pm), where Saint Thomas, a famed Jesus Christ disciple, breathed his last. This neon-lit 16th century building was made a basilica by the Portuguese in 1896. The 14 wooden plaques depicting scenes from the last days of Christ and the 3 ft. High statue of the Virgin, believed to have been imported from Portugal, make it a feast for the eyes. Atop St. Thomas Mount, is another 16th century Portuguese church - the Church of our Lady of Expectations. Head for the sprawling 270-acre garden housing the Theosophical Society, founded by Madam Blavatsky and Colonel Olcott in New York in 1875, whose headquarters were moved to Chennai in 1882. And don't miss out the Adayar Banyan tree.

Kalakshetra: Beyond Elliot's beach, in Thiruvanmiyur, is this Rukmini Devi Arundale's Gurukul - a center for dance, music, arts and crafts - that has disciples from across the globe. Reputed scholars and musicians like Tiger Varadachariar, Veenai Sambasiva Iyer, Mysore Vasudevachariar and Papanasam Sivan, an arts college, a senior secondary school and a craft education and research center - make it the 'Temple of Art'.

Hangouts: HFO (Hell Freezes Over) with 6000 sq. feet of floor space, 2500 watts of music, a billiards table, choicest spirits for the spirited, guest DJs from across the nation and some great music make it a perfect hangout. Dublin (Hotel Park Sheraton and Towers), Pasha (The Park, 601 Anna Salai), Leather Bar (The Park hotel), Distil (the Taj Connemara), Zaras Tapas (74 Cathedral Rd.) - are some of the best stages where you can stress-buster your hectic days and 'chillax' with a 'kewl' drink amidst a 'super-kewl' crowd.

Shopping

Right from the swanky malls to the roadside vendors, the typical South Indian influence is unmistakably prominent. When you go sight-seeing the traditional buys make excellent souvenirs. Pattamara Mats and the leaf and palmyra-fiber handicrafts from Tirunellveli, bronze and brass castings and traditional jewelry from Kumbakonam, metal works from Tanjavur, stone carvings from Mamallapuram, Silks from Kanchipuram - are terminologies to remember. They appear as beautiful to the eyes are their names sound to the ears. Visit Cottage Emporium, Poompuhar Emporium and Victoria Technical Institute all of which are at Anna Salai. For Kanjeevaram silk sarees Nalli's Rasi and Kumaran silks at T Nagar are the best bets. SIPA'S Craftlink (Kodambakkam High Rd) has indigenous articles made by local people. Burma Bazaar has very interesting imported goods at reasonable rates. Head for the shopping plazas or the malls if you want to check out the branded stuffs.

Cuisine

Idly(steamed rice cakes), dosai (a pancake made from a batter of rice), vada (deep fried doughnuts), pongal (a mish mash of rice and lentils boiled together and seasoned with ghee, cashew nuts, pepper and cummin seed), uppuma (cooked semolina seasoned in mustard oil) - mouth watering isn't it? There are several variations of the dishes mentioned above which are eaten with coconut chutney, sambar (seasoned lentil broth) and mulaga podi (a powdered mix of several dried lentils eaten with oil). And filter coffee is the favorite beverage. The coffee beans are first roasted and ground, and elaborate rituals follow till it is becomes the ideal frothy cup of filter coffee. For a lip-smacking South Indian fare go to Dakshin Restaurant at the Park Sheraton, Raintree at Taj Connnemara's Verandah or walk into any one of Saravana Bhavan's 17 restaurants strewn across the city. Amravathi specializes in Andhra cuisine, while, Kaaraikudi (Radhakrishna Salai) has scrumptious grilled stuffed pomfret and the special chicken pepper fry with appams. Those flavored with a 'difference' are Senor Pepes (its coffee is awesome), Buhari (Anna Salai, for Russian Chicken) and as for the rest, let your taste buds do the exploring - Chennai is full of foodie stop-overs.

Getaways

Mahabalipuram (58 km): Ancient heritage is covetously preserved at some places and the coastal-town of Mahabalipuram or Mammallapuram is just a case for example. This 7th century Pallava joint (a World Heritage site), has 9 rock cut temples and 5 monolithic temple, four out of five Pancha Pandava Rathas are supposed to have been carved out of a single rock. Today, the Dravidian shore temple, the largest bas-relief in the world called Arjuna's Penance and the famous and beautiful mandapams has made this town world famous.

Kanchipuram (75 km): The Coromandel Coast's Golden Triangle has Chennai, Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram clubbed together. Kanchipuram, literally means the Golden City, and true to its name, the weavers here craft some of the world's best and most exotic silk fabric. It is also one of the seven sacred cities of India, fondly called City of Thousand temples, with some exquisite reminders of the Dravidian architecture in the form of temples and gopurams. Indian Deer

Widlife: A 72 acres Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, located at about 86 km from Chennai, has some rare 24 species of local and migratory birds. About 28 km from Chennai is the Vandalur Zoo or the Anna Zoological Park, the biggest in South Asia with natural environs and a good conglomeration of wild animals. At 44 km from Chennai, not far from Mamallapuram, is the famed Crocodile Bank - crocodile breeding and research center where several species of Indian and African crocodiles and alligators are bred in captivity. Some hundreds of those large black bodies, one atop the other, basking in the sun is quite a spine-chilling sight.

Backwaters: If the idea of angling and some quiet backwater cruising turns you on, head for Pulicat (54 km). At the little fishing village of Annamalai Cheri see if you can persuade the fishermen to include you in their fishing venture. The ancient Dutch cemetery with its well-preserved tombstones repletes the eerie quietude of the place. Another joint is Muttukadu (16 km), a Tamil Nadu tourism spot where water sports enthusiasts make a beeline to participate in the various competitions.

Cholamandal Artist's Village (18 km): Artists and sculptors have conjoined to produce and also sell their wares in this antique village. The open-air auditorium here hosts a plethora of avant-garde theater, poetry-reading, dance recitals and the gallery here has a very rare collection of contemporary paintings and sculptures.

Location : In Tamil Nadu, South India

Go there for : Beaches, Temples

Climate : 21-37°C (Sum); 20-30°C (Win)

When to Go: Winters (Nov-Feb)

Local Tongue: Tamil

Literacy : 80.14%

STD Code : +91- 44