|
Home : Profile : Contact Us : Reservation : E-mail |
|
|
|
Agra Travel Guide Agra, or the city of the Taj, as it is known all over the world, forms the first destination on the itinerary of most travelers coming into India. Forming part of the famous 'Golden Triangle' (Delhi-Jaipur-Agra), it is placed on the western bank of the Yamuna. The magnificent Taj Mahal which is the pride of this city is set around a Charbagh or 'four garden' plan, which is split by watercourses - a reflection of the Persian style.  Agra finds mention in the Mahabharata as Agraban. This city of the Taj ,was established in 1475, by Badal Singh, but came into its own when Sikander Lodi, chose it as his capital ,but was eventually defeated by Babur, who laid the foundation of the Mughal empire. Agra reached its zenith during the reign of the Mughal Empire, to become the center of art, culture, commerce and learning. By mid 16th and the earlier 17th century, Agra witnessed a frenzied building activity purely in the contemporary Mughal style, and it was during this time, when the symbol of love - TheTaj Mahal was built. Culture Agra has witnessed the rise of the pomp and pageantry of the Mughal Monarchs, who lavished on this fabled city, their love and riches, bringing a change in the culture and life-style among the people. Agra is one of the most important centres for handicrafts, made of marble and soft stone inlay work. Major handicraft products of Agra, besides inlay work are leatherware, brassware, carpets, jewellery and embroidery work. The major languages spoken here are Hindi, Urdu and English. How to Reach Agra is well connected by road, rail and air. By air, Kheria airport is 6 kms from Agra and is well connected to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Khajuraho, Jaipur, Varanasi and other important cities. By rail, the nearest and main railheads are Agra Cantt, Raji-ki-Mandi and Agra Fort railway stations which are well connected to Delhi, Gwalior, Bhopal, Bangalore, Jammu Tawi and other parts of the country. By road, Agra is well connected by good motorable roads. For those driving from Delhi, the best route is by Mathura Road via Faridabad. It is well connected to the neighbouring state of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh as buses depart for Khajuraho, Jaipur, Jodhpur and Mathura frequently. Tourist Places : The Taj Mahal Taj Mahal is one of the wonders of the world and the epitome of love, beauty and sacrifice. Built by Shah Jahan in the memory of his queen, Mumtaz Mahal, its construction is believed to have taken 22 years to complete with over 20,000 craftsmen working round the clock. Even as the world is caught in the skirmishes of War and peace, Nuclear and Non-Nuclear; Taj has stood as the epitome of love. One of the most visited and most photographed places in the world, this extravagant monument of love is the culmination point of Indo-Persian architecture. Itmad-ud-Duala Situated opposite the Taj Mahal on the other side of the River Yamuna, Itmad-ud-Duala houses a magnificent mausoleum of Ghias Beg, father of Noor Jehan and the Chief Minister of Emperor Jehangir. This white marble tomb and the first complete marble Moghul structure may not be as mammoth as the Taj but the inlay designs and carvings are no less than Taj if not more. The delicate marble latticework in the passages allows the light to enter the interiors. Nur Jahan built a similar tomb for Jehangir in Lahore. Jehangirs Palace Dayal Bagh is the birthplace of the Radhaswami sect, which was founded by a banker of Agra, Swami Shiv Dayal, in 1861. It is a place of pilgrimage for members of this sect and a temple is built here in honour of their fourth Guru. Agra Fort Agra Fort is situated in the center of the town. Built principally as a military establishment by Akbar in 1565, the red sandstone Agra fort was partially converted into a palace during Shah Jahans time. Though Akbar built the principle structure, his grandsons made many more additions. Sikandra This deserted city lies along the top of a ridge. This new capital of Akbar had to be abandoned, only 14 years after it was created, due to lack of water. But the splendid palaces and mosques remain as a vanquished dream. However, this ghost city, is worth a view for its buildings, and can be classified into religious, secular and architectural wonders. The latticework of Jama Masjid and the Dargah of Sheikh Salim Chishti are among the finest in India. The Bais Palace, Birbals House, Mariams House, Panch Mahal, Shahi Darwaza and the Buland Darwaza definitely deserve a visit. Bikaner Travel Guide The royal fortified city with a timeless appeal. Lying in the north of the Desert State, the city is dotted with many sand dunes. Bikaner retains the medieval splendor that pervades the city's lifestyle More popularly called the camel country, the city is renowned for the best riding camels in the world. The ship of the desert is an inseparable part of life here. Be it pulling heavy carts, transporting grains or working on wells. Camels are the prime helpers. The well of Bikaner-an important source of water are another attraction of the city. These are built on high plinth with slender minareted towers on each of the Four Corners and can be noticed even from a distance. Bikaner's history date backs to 1488A.D. when a Rathore Prince. Rao Bikaji- a descendant of the founder of Jodhpur(1459A.D.) Rao Jodhaji, established his kingdom here. Rao Jodhaji had five sons but Rao Jodhaji had five sons but rao Bikaji was the most enterprising of them. Bikaji chose a barren wilderness called "jangladesh" and transformed it to an impressive city, called Bikaji after the Founder's Name. The strategic location of Bikaner on the ancient caravan routes that came from west/Central Asia, made it a Prime trade center in the times of the year. Bikaner stands on a slightly raised ground and is circumscribed by a seven km long embattled wall with five gates. The magnificent forts and palaces created with delicacy in reddish-pink, sandstone, bear testimony to its historical and architectural legacy. Undulating lanes, colorful bazaars and bright and cheerful folks make Bikaner an interesting experience. Places to See : Bhandasar Jain Temple : Beautiful 16th century A.D. Jain temple dedicated to the 13rd Trirthankra. Camel Research Farm : Spend a day with indispensable ship of the desert at their camel research and breeding centre-one of its kind in Asia.Timing 15.00hrs to 17.00hrs (Closed on Sundays and government holidays) Photography prohibited. The farm extends over 2000 acres of semiarid land is managed by the central Government. The camel crops of Bikaner were a famous fighting force during the Raj and are still an important part of the desert warfare and defence through the border security Force (BSF) Devi Kund : Ayoyal crematorium with several ornamented cenotaphs or "chhatris' built in the memory of the Bika dynasty rulers. Maharaja Suraj Singh chhatri is the most impressive of all creative entirely in white marble with spectacular Rajput painting on the ceiling Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary : The lush foliage of woods on the Jaisalmer road are a heaven to nilgai chinkara, black buck, wild coar and folk of imperial sand grouse. The Gajner palace a summer retreat of the king stands on the bank of the lake and has been converted into a hotel. Shiv Bari Temple : Built by Doongar Singhji in the late 10th century. The temple in surrounding by an embattlement wall. It has beautiful painting and a bronze Nandi facing the Shiva Lingam. Deshnok's Karni Mata Temple : The famous 600 year old temple on the Jodhpur road dedicated to Karni Mata, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple has huge intricately carved silver gates, which were donated by Maharaja Ganga Singh The most interesting thing about the temple are the rats who scamper freely within the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. They are regarded as sacred and are fed by priests and devotees owing to the belief that they will be reincarnated as holy men. Kolayatji : A famous pilgrimage spot with a temple dedicated to Kapil Muni (saint) The temple is the venue for an annual fair held in the month of Kartik (oct-nov)when thousands of devotees gather in large number to take a sacred dip in the holy waters of the Kolayat lake on the full moon day. A cattle fair, especially for the trading of camels is a part of the festivals. The small oasis town is now an idyllic picnic spot. Chamba Travel Guide Occupying the northwestern portion of the state of Himachal Pradesh, the town of Chamba stands on a plateau on the right bank of the river Ravi valley. The valley itself, is located between the mighty Dhauladhar and Zanskar range in the south of inner Himalayas. The town of Chamba, which also happens to be the headquarters of the district by the same name was founded by Raja Sahil Verman in the 10th century AD. It was named after his daughter Champavati who is considered the patron deity of the place. For tourists, Chamba holds immense scope, mainly in form of temples and festivals. Apart from these, the art work of Chamba like its exquisite miniatures and handicrafts are also famous. The best time for tourists to visit Chamba is between the months of March and June. Places to See : Champavati Temple This temple is dedicated to the patron deity of the Chamba town, Goddess Champavati. It was built by her own father, king Sahil Verman. The architecture of the temple follows the shikhara style. There are exquisite stone carvings as well as the wheel roof. As far as the size of the temple goes, it can compare with the famous Laxmi Narayan temple of the town. Vajreshwari Temple This is another temple in Chamba which is built in Shikhara style. It is dedicated to Devi Vajreshwari or the goddess of lightening. In the absence of any historical records, it is difficult to ascertain the actual year of construction. However, people believe that the temple is around 1000 years old. Two other minor temples also stand closeby to this main temple. Chamunda Devi Temple The temple, dedicated to the wrathful form of Goddess Durga, is situated atop the Shah Madar hill. A small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva also stands right behind the main Chamunda temple. Infront of the temple, there are two old peepul tree standing on a platform. These trees have been providing shelter to the incoming visitors for long. Moreover, from this platform, you can also catch fantastic views of other temples and landmarks of the town. Because of this reason, the temple is also a pretty well known picnic spot of the town. Currently, the temple is under the protection of the Archaeological Survey of India. Sui Mata Temple The temple is dedicated to the sacrifice of a rani who laid down her life to ensure that Chamba did not go waterless. The temple is located on Shah Madar Hill. There is also a fair organised every year from 15th of the Chait to the first of Baisakhi. The fair is specially important for the women and children. They sing devotional songs in praise of the rani extolling her supreme sacrifice for the betterment of the people. Gandhi Gate This gate was constructed to welcome Lord Curzon in the year 1900. He was then, the viceroy of the British Government. The gate instantly catches attention due to its saffron colour. Hari Har Temple This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and has a beautiful bronze image of the lord in its interiors. The construction of the temple, dating back to the 11th century, is credited to Salbahana. The temple itself is constructed in the shikhara style, like most of the other temples in Chamba. Standing on an elevated platform, it is the only temple that is close to Chaugan. Chaugan A grassy land, 805 m in length and 73 m in width, is the principal centre of social and cultural activities. Apart from being the venue for the annual Minjar mela, Chaugan is also used by Gaddi tribals for camping, and the local people for taking a walk. From Dussehra till April, Chaugan is closed for visitors. This is because of the maintenance work that is carried out during this period. Akhand Chandi Palace This palace was constructed as a royal residential palace by Raja Umed Singh in the middle of the 18th century. Later renovation and reconstruction work were carried out by Raja Sham Singh, Capt Marshal and Raja Bhuri Singh. Still later, the palace was sold to the Himachal government. Today, it offers some spectacular views of the Chaugan, Laxmi Narayan temple, Sui Mata Temple and other prominent attractions of the town. Bhuri Singh Museum The museum, named after Raja Bhuri Singh, was formally inaugurated on the 14th of September in the year 1908. Bhuri Singh himself gave his family collection of paintings to the museum. Apart from the paintings, other items on display are the the embroidered Chamba rumaals, coins, hill jewellery and costumes- both traditional and royal, arms and armour, musical instruments and various decorative objects. The museum is opened from 10 in the morning to 5 in the evening all through the week except Mondays and gazeted holidays. Other Attractions Fairs & Festivals Minjar Mela : Highly popular amongst the locals is the annual Minjar mela which is oraganised on the second Sunday of the Shravana month. The fair commences with the distribution of minjar or the silk tassel which is symbolic of the paddy and maize grown at this time of the year. A flag is hoisted in the Chowgan which is followed by a week long cultural and social programmes. Business carries on simultaneously. At the end of the week, a colourful procession is taken out from the Akhand Chandi Palace for the venue near the Police Line Nalhora. The chief guest at the occasion throws a coconut, a rupee, a seasonal fruit and a minjar tied in a red piece of cloth into the river water. In the erstwhile era, this ceremony was performed by the king. Coming back to the present, this ceremony is followed by common people throwing their minjar into the water as well. Thereafter some traditional song are sung. Betal leaves as well as ittra are offered to guests as a mark of respect. Adventure Activities & Sports : Chamba offers many exciting treks over the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges. The region situated between Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal is called the Chamba valley while the area lying between the Great Himalayan Range and Pir Panjal comprises Pangi, Lahaul and Spiti valleys. Some of the treks from Chamba are to Killar over Sach pass, and then to Kishtwar in Jammu and Kashmir or to Manaii via Udaipur in Lahaul; Bharmaur to Triloknath/Udaipur over Kalicho pass (4803m); to Udaipur over Chobia pass (4966m), to Manaii over Kugti pass (5040 m) and to Manimahesh lake (4172 m). Duration of these treks which are operational from June to October is 5 to 8 days. Chamba is also a base for (out and back) one-or-two day delightful treks. These are to Jhamuar, Kandi-Bassu and to Khajjiar. How to Reach By Air : The nearest airport is at Gaggal (Kangra) 180 km from Chamba and 140 km from Dalhousie. By Rail : Chamba town is 122 km from Pathankot, the nearest broad gauge rail head which is linked by direct trains to Amritsar, Delhi, Bombay and Calcutta. By Road : Chamba is 52 km away from Dalhousie. Bus run Chamba to Pathankot, Delhi, Dharamsala, Shimla, Chandigarh, Jammu and most of the Punjab cities along the national highway. Dalhousie Travel Guide Dalhousie is a beautiful, quiet and peaceful small town of North India, famous among the honeymooners. Away from the maddening crowds of plains, Dalhousie is surrounded with attractive cottages, villas, sky touching deodar and pine trees and evergreen ornamental shrubs that makes it one of the most preferred tourists destination in Himachal Pradesh. Dalhousie - A Dream Destination Situated at a distance of 145 km from Dharamsala, the existence of Dalhousie dates back to the British age in India. The city was established in 1854 by the British governor- general Lord Dalhousie. Covering an area of 14 sq km and surrounded by alpine vegetation, Dalhousie has charming architecture and panoramic views of both plains and the white-capped views of the mountainous ranges. The beauty of the city can be explored and discovered through for some of the best forms of adventure activities, trekking and mountain-climbing.Covering the beautiful landscapes of Dhauladhar ranges, trekkers witness the trees dressed in different shades , lush green tea gardens, and blooming orchards of roses. The travel department of Himachal Pradesh have preserved this unfold beauty of nature in its best form that attracts huge number of tourists from entire world. Apart from the scenic beauty of Dalhousie, tourists can also visit this place for the famous embroidered woollen shawls, chappals embroidered with gold thread and famous life-like dolls. Dalhousie enjoys a comfortable weather throughout the year. Though the place can be visited anytime in the year, the ideal time is during the summer months when the hill resort beats the heat of the plains. Cotton clothing is applicable for the summer months whereas woolens are required for the winters. How To Reach By Air : Gaggal airport is the nearest one, located at a distance of 140 km from Dalhousie. From the airport tourists can reach Dalhousie by private taxi or bus. By Train : Pathankot is the nearest railway station, located at a distance of 80 km from Dalhousie. Private taxi and bus services are available from the railway station to Dalhousie. By Road : Dalhousie is connected to all the major cities of Himachal Pradesh. Pathankot-Chamba route is the connecting way to Dalhousie. Internal Transport Tourists can hire taxi to move in and around the city. There are many local travel agents that organizes tour to different attractions in city. Accommodations Dalhousie has plenty of tourist accommodation that suits the tastes and budget of every individual. The accommodations are available in the range of deluxe and budget category. The Government of Himachal Pradesh has its own accommodation that offers world class services and amenities. Places to See : Subhash Baoli Named after Subhash Chandra Bose, a famous freedom fighter, Subhash Baoli is located at a mere distance of 1 km from Dalhousie. An enthralling spot, Subhash Baoli is surrounded by majestic trees that attracts huge number of tourists from India as well as abroad. Panchpula Located at a distance of 3 km from Dalhousie, Panchpula is known for its monuments which has been built in the memory of the freedom fighter, Sardar Ajit singh. Kalatop kalatop is a wild life sanctuary located at a distance of 10 km from Dalhousie. 'Ghoral' and Himalayan black bear can be found here. Satdhara Located on the way to Panchpula, Satdhara is a famous picnic spot nearby Dalhousie. The place is known for the seven hot water springs, that has great therapeutic value in it. Bakrota Hills Located at a distance of 5 km from Dalhousie, Bakrota hills give breathtaking view of the snow covered city Excursion From Dalhousie Khajjiar Located at a distance of 27 km from Dalhousie, Khajjar is considered as 'Switzerland of India' . Famous for the lovely mountain landscape and comfortable summer, Khajar is the best place to spend vacations. Khajjar is also famous for the 12th century old Khajjinag temple and a golf course that even increases the beauty of this wonderful plain. Chamba Famous for the palace, temple and museum, Chamba is described as a jewel of the Himalayas. Located at a distance of 56 km from Dalhousie, Chamba is one of the best excursion sites near Dalhousie. In this part of Dalhousie, tourists can visit the famous Lakshminarayana ( name of Hindu deity) temple complex, rang Mahal, the Palace built in the shape of a castle and the Bhuri Singh Museum. The Museum adorns with the paintings, sculptures, stone inscriptions, wonderful embroideries, ancient weapons, and other rare artifacts. Palampur One of the perfect hill station of Himachal Pradesh, Palampur is located on the turf of Dauladhar ranges. Famous for the tea gardens, rice fields and flowers, Palampur is considered as best excursion sites nearby Dalhousie. The best way to explore this beautiful scenic destination is through trekking and mountaineering. Baijnath Baijnath is known as a famous pilgrimage center, located on the Dauladhar ranges. A landmark in the Baijnath is the famous spire temple of Baijnath, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva (Hindu Deity). A large number of tourists and devotees travel to this place to get blessing from the Lord Shiva. Especially the waterfall at Baijnath is famous among the tourists, it is believed that the water contains some medicinal value in it. Trekking & Mountaineering Pir Panjal range is the main trekking range nearby Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh. The treks are surrounded by thickly populated forests and mountain slopes giving thrilling excitement to trekkers. Shopping in Dalhousie Dalhousie is famous for the shawls, chappals, cane baskets, woolens and dolls. There are many outlets for daily stuffs, but Himachal Handloom Industry Emporium on Thandi Sarak and Tibetan Handicraft Centre are genuine stores for handicrafts, woolen shawls, bags and purses. Delhi Travel Guide Delhi is the capital city of India, and can be called as a major gateway to India. Delhi is one of the most important metropolis in India,as it is the city of power. It has a very good combination of both modern, as well as ancient culture. It is also known as the Headquarters of Indian politics, as most of the heads of the Indian government and other political parties, reside here, including the Prime Minister, and President of the country. In these 3000 years of its existence, there has been the origin of seven more cities ,where the traditional Indian capital is. Strategic location, mixture of modern and Indian culture, rich history, medieval market, beside the modern ones etc are the main reasons for choosing it, as the seat of power. Delhi is a city waiting to be explored. History Down the ages, the region in and around modern Delhi, saw Lalkot built in the mid-11th century; Siri established by Allauddin Khilji; Tughlakabad and Ferozabad built by the Tuglaks, followed by the city of the Lodis; and then came Shahjahanbad, the capital of the Mughals under Shah Jahan. New Delhi also reflects the legacy, the British left behind. The division between New and Old Delhi, is the distinction, between the capitals of the British and the Mughals respectively. So, wherever the visitor goes, he will invariably confront the past of the city. Culture The throbbing presence of Delhi, pulls one out of the reflections of a mute past. The divisions in the Walled City and New Delh,i also mark their varied lifestyles. The Walled City, is all about traditions, whereas New Delhi, in contrast, is a city living up to contemporary international standards. Climate & Geogaphical Location It is extremely hot and dry in summer and cold and pleasant in winter. Standing on the west bank of the Yamuna river, at the narrowest point between the Aravalli hills and the Himalayas is Delhi. How to Reach New Delhi is well connected by rail, road and air. By air, New Delhi has two terminals, one for domestic and the other for international flights. 4.5 km apart ,the two are linked by coach services. The Indira Gandhi International Airport connects Delhi , to the world. On the domestic front, it is well connected with all state capitals and major metros all over India. By rail, Old Delhi, New Delhi and Hazrat Nizammuddin stations ,connect Delhi to all parts of the country. All these 3 stations ,are located at a distance of maximum 5 km from each other. By road, Delhi is connected by National Highways ,to all the parts of the country. It is also linked by bus services of Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and state roadways ,of neighbouring states to all important cities and destinations in North India. Delhi is well connected by road ,with many major cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Shimla, Nainital, Agra, Ajmer, Gwalior etc. Tourist Places : Raj Ghat Mahatma Gandhi was cremated here in 1948. This sprawling site, on the banks of the Yamuna, is marked by a brick platform, flanked by an eternall flame, surrounded by lush green lawns and imposing boundary walls of concrete. Rashtrapati Bhavan The official residence of the President of India, it stands at the opposite end of the Rajpath, from India Gate. This palace-like building, is an interesting blend of Mughal and western architectural styles, the most obvious Indian feature being the huge copper dome. Attached is a Mughal garden which remains open to the public, only in February and early March. Prior to Independence this was the viceroy's residence. Sansad Bhavan Although a large and imposing building, Sansad Bhavan, the Indian parliament building, stands almost hidden and virtually unnoticed,at the end of Sansad Marg. A circular colonnaded structure, its relative physical insignificance in the grand scheme of New Delhi, shows how the focus of Power has shifted,from the viceroy's residence, which was given pride of place during the time of the British Raj, when New Delhi was conceived. Bahai Temple Lying to the east of Siri Fort, is the Bahai Temple shaped like a lotus flower. Completed in 1986, it is set amongst pools and gardens, and adherents of any Faith, are free to visit the temple and pray, or meditate silently, according to their own religion. It looks spectacular at dusk, particularly from the air, when it is floodlit, but is rather disappointing close up. The temple lies just inside the Outer Ring Road, 12 km southeast of the city centre. Red Fort The red sandstone walls of Lal Qila, the Red Fort, extends for 2 km, and vary in height from 18ms on the riverside, to 33ms on the city side. Started by Shah Jahan in 1638, the construction of the massive fort was completed in 1648. But he was never able, to move his capital from Agra to this new city of Shahjahanabad in Delhi, for he was imprisoned in Agra Fort by his son Aurangzeb. Dating from the very peak of Mughal power, the Mughal reign from Delhi, was a short one. However Aurangzeb was the first and last great Mughal emperor to rule from here. Chandni Chowk This main street of Old Delhi, is the colourful shopping bazaar, known as Chandni Chowk. A very sharp contrast to the open, spacious streets of New Delhi. At its eastern end is a Digambara Jain Gurdwara (temple), with a small marble courtyard, surrounded by a colonnade. There is an interesting bird hospital here, run by the Jains. Jama Masjid The largest in India, and the final architectural extravagance of Shah Jahan; Jama Masjid is the great mosque of Old Delhi. It has three great gateways, four angle towers and two minarets constructed of alternating vertical strips of red sandstone and white marble. Broad flights of steps, lead up to the imposing gateways. The Eastern gateway was originally, only opened for the emperor, but is now only open on Friday and Muslim festival days. So large is the mosque's countryard, that it can hold 25,000 people. Connaught Place A business and tourist centre, it's a vast traffic circle, with an architecturally uniform series, of colonnaded buildings around the edge, mainly devoted to shops, banks, restaurants and airline offices. Willing to shop, you can have any and every thing at your disposal. Its spacious, but busy, and the people will be willing to provide you with everything imaginable, from an airline ticket to Timbuktu, to having your fortune read. The outer circle is known as Connaught Circus. Jantar Mantar A short stroll down Sansad Marg, from Cannaught Place, this strange collection of salmon -coloured structure, is one of Maharaja Jai Singh II's observatories. The ruler from Jaipur constructed this observatory in 1725 and a huge sundial known as the Prince of Dials dominates it. Other instruments, plot the course of heavenly bodies and predict eclipses. Lakshmi Narayan Temple To the west of Connaught Place, the industrialist B.D. Birla, erected this garish modern temple in 1938. Its dedicated to Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity and good fortune and is commonly known as Birla Mandir. India Gate This 42ms high stone of triumph, stands at the eastern end of the Rajpath. It bears the names of 85,000 Indian army soldiers, who died in the campaigns of WW I, the NorthWest Frontier operations of the same time, and the 1919 Afghan fiasco. Qutb Minar One of the earliest Muslim monuments in India, it was erected in (c.1230) by Iltutmish of the Delhi Sultanate. Built in the early 13th century, a few kilometres south of Delhi, the red sandstone tower is covered with relief work and has a symbolic function, its a Victory Tower, for glorifying Islam's victory against idolators. The highest monument of India, Qutb Minar is 72.5 m high, tapering from 2.75 m in diameter at its peak, to 14.32 m at its base, and alternating angular and rounded flutings. An indoor staircase leads to the outside galleries, from where the muezzin calls for prayer. The monument is decked out with huge strips of Koranic verses. The surrounding archeological area contains funerary buildings, notably the magnificent Alai-Darwaza gate, the masterpiece of Indo-Moslem art built in 1311, and two mosques, including Quwwatul-Islam, the oldest in northern India, made from materials from about twenty Brahmin temples. Dharamshala Travel Guide Dharamshala stands at the foot of snow wrapped lofty Dhauladhar ranges and offers a magnificent view of snowy peaks, deodar and pine forests, tea gardens and beautiful hills. Dharamshala with a number of Tibetan settlements and the residence of the spiritual and temporal leader of the Tibetan people, the Noble Laureate His Holiness the Dalai Lama, now really has become a place of international significance. Dharamsala is an important township of Kangra district in the state of Himachal Pradesh in the northern part of India. Numerous streams, cool healthy air, attractive surroundings and the nearby snowline, Dharamsala has everything for a perfect holiday. It is full of life and yet peaceful. Today, Dharamshala in the north Indian State of Himachal Pradesh is home to a large Tibetan Community who have made Dharamshala their home. Major Tourist Attractions in Dharamshala Mcleod Ganj The arrival of the Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, along with thousands of refugees to Dharamshala in 1959 made this place more lively. A number of Tibetan settlements with religious education and other rehabilitation centres have emerged all over Mcleodganj. Today, Mcleodganj is a major Buddhist centre of pilgrimage and learning. Bhagsunag Fall The fall is about 11 km. from Dharamshala town, known for its old temple, a fresh water spring, water falls and slate quarries. This spot can be easily accessed by road. The Bhagsunag fall is one of the major attractions of Mcleodganj. St. John's Church At a distance of 8 km. from Dharamshala, the church lies amidst the deodar forest between Mcleod Ganj and Forsyth Ganj. The church houses a monument dedicated to Lord Elgin, one of the viceroys of India, who died at Chauntra ( Mandi district ) and was buried here in 1863 A.D. Dharamkot About 14 km. from Dharamshala, Dharamkot is situated on the crest of a hill. This favourite picnic spot offers a panoramic view of the Kangra valley and the snow clad Dhauladhar ranges. One can easily reach Dharamkot by a simple trek from Bhagsu. En route there are several small restaurant type of shops offering quick relaxation and beverages. War Memorial The War Memorial is situated in Dharamshala town, near the entry point to Dharamshala commemorates. This was built in the memory of those who fought valiantly for the honour and defence of the mother land. The place is ideally located amid the pine forest. There is also a cafe just close to War Memorial serving fast food and beverages. Kunal Pathari 3 km from Dharamshala is Kotwali Bazar, a level walk from where leads upto the rock temple of the local goddess. This is an amazing place to visit in Dharamshala. How to Reach By Air : Nearest airport is Gaggal airport located 15 km. from Dharamshala. Other airports having regular service are : Jammu 200 km., Amritsar 210 km. and Chandigarh 260 km. By Rail : Nearest broad gauge railhead is Pathankot 95 km. A narrow gauge railway line between Pathankot and Jogindernagar passes through Kangra, 17 km. from Dharamshala. By Road : Almost each and every part of the state is linked by roads. The Himachal Road Transport Corporation is running its buses covering the whole state. There is huge network of HRTC to cater the needs of the people. Accommodation There are numerous place at Dharamshala providing world class facilities and services to make the stay of the tourists comfortable. Providing panoramic views of the surroundings, Dharamshala hotels offer best facilities within the premises. The hotels in Dharamshala are available in all categories from deluxe hotels to economy hotels. Pick the one which most suites your need and make your India tour most memorable.
|
|||
| Home : Profile : Contact Us : Reservation : E-mail |
 All rights reserved by All India ToursThis Site is Designed, Developed and Promoted by Drishti Infotech & E-Business Online |
