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Haridwar Travel Guide Haridwar - "The Temple City" Haridwar, one of the most holy cities for Hindus, literally means 'Gateway to God'. Legend goes that the Suryavnshi (belonging to Sun Dynasty) Prince Bhagirath performed penance here to salvage the souls of his ancestors who had perished due to the curse of the sage Kapila. The penance was answered and the river Ganga trickled forth from Lord Shiva's locks and its bountiful waters revived the sixty thousand sons of King Sagara. Mythologically, drops of nectar churned out from the primordial ocean fell at the four sites of the Kumbh mela, including Haridwar. The Kumbh mela, happening once every 12 years and the Ardha Kumbha Mela, every six years are big draws. Haridwar is said to be visited by every god, to perform penance and meditation here. The Ganga leaves the mountains and enters the plains at Haridwar, becoming very quite and calm. It is said that taking bath here purifies the soul and opens the way for the ultimate freedom, the Nirvana. Haridwar has come up as a major learning center for arts, science and culture. This place has maintained the Gurukul traditions of teaching. Haridwar has since ages been a source of Ayurvedic medicines and has been providing herbal remedies. One of the first towns to be developed on Ganges, Haridwar is still lush and green with forest and trees. With Rajaji park in the vicinity Haridwar has also been the destination for the wildlife and nature lovers. The city acquires a unique charm in the evening when the ghats become breath takingly beautiful with thousands of Diyas and Marigold floating in the waters of Ganges.  Getting There Air - Haridwar is 35 Km from Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, where one can get taxis and buses for Haridwar. Rail - Haridwar is a major railhead on the rail routes to Uttaranchal. Haridwar is connected to the major cities of India by direct trains. Road - Haridwar is connected to major cities of Uttaranchal and Uttar Pradesh via roadways. Some of the major distances are Rishikesh- 24 Km, Delhi- 214 Km, Agra- 386 Km, Badrinath- 325 Km, Dehradun- 52 Km, Kedarnath- 250 Km and Nainital- 286 Km. The city trasport of Haridwar consists of Hand-rickshaws, Tongas and Auto-rickshaws. Major Attractions Har ki Paudi The sacred Ghat on Ganges was constructed by King Vikramaditya in memory of his brother Bhartrihari. Har ki Paudi means Steps (Paudi) of Shiva (Hari). It is believed that Shiva and Vishnu have visited the ghat in the Vedic Era. The ghat is said to have a large footprint, supposed to be that of Vishnu. Legends have it that Brahma had performed a Yagna (Prayers) at the banks of Ganga, on Har ki Paudi. Chandi Devi The temple of Chandi Devi is set atop the Neel Parvat. The modern temple was constructed by Suchat Singh, ruler of Kashmir, in 1929 AD. The temple is a 3 km trek from Chandi Ghat. It is believed that the main statue was established by the Adi Sankaracharya in 8th Century AD. Chandi Devi Tetple is also accessible by a ropeway, which starts near Gauri Shankar Temple. Maya Devi Temple The temple is said to be at the site of the place where heart and navel of Sati fell. The temple is amongst one of the Shaktipeeths in India. Mansa Devi Temple The temple on the top of Bilwa Parvat is dedicated to the Goddess Mansa Devi. Here, one statue of the Goddess has three mouths and five arms while the other statue has eight arms. The rope way carriage operates between Upper road, near the station and Mansa Devi Temple. Gurukul Kangri University The university follows the ancient Indian way of teaching. Students dress up as monks and study in Gurukul. There is Ved Mandir in the premises, which houses many archaeological exhibits. The Ved Mandir museum with archaeological exhibits in display can also be seen. Haridwar Temples Haridwar, the temple city, houses uncountable number of temples. The temples of Haridwar are of high religious importance, as Haridwar is amongst the most sacred cities of India. As per myths, Haridwar has been visited by Gods and Goddesses as a part of performing penances. Kumbh Mela Haridwar is the site of Ardh Kumbh mela. One of the four sites of Kumbh Mela, Haridwar hosts Kumbh mela every 12th year, on Har-ki-Paudi. The Kumbh Mela is the most revered Hindu fair. It is believed that during Kumbh Mela in Haridwar, water of Ganga acquires medicinal properties. A bath in Ganga, during Kumbh Mela, is therefore considered very beneficial. Accommodations Haridwar is the major pilgrimage centres of North-India. It is one of the most holy cities of India. There are many hotels, ranging from luxury to economy class. There are many ashrams which offer excellent services to the guests. The food served in the city is strictly vegetarian and liqour is neither sold nor served in the bounds of city. Jaipur Travel Guide The picturesque capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is also known as the Pink city. The colour pink is associated with culture. There is a timeless appeal in the colourful bazaars of Jaipur ,where one can shop for Rajasthani handlooms and trinklets. Beautifully laid out gardens and parks, attractive monuments and marvellous heritage hotels,which were once the residence of Maharajas, are worthy of admiration. Not to mention the ambling camels and cheerful people in multi-hued costumes, that make your trip to the pink city a memorable one. History : Built in 1727 A.D. by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur displays a remarkable harmony and architectural splendour. The ancient heart of the pink city, still beats in its fairy-tale palaces, rugged fortresses perched on barren hills and broad avenues, that dot the entire city. The only planned city of its time, Jaipur is encircled by a formidable wall. A young Bengali architect, Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, formalised the plans of the city, in a grid system. The wide straight avenues, roads, streets, lanes and uniform rows of shops on either side of the main bazaars, were arranged in nine rectangular city sectors (Chokris), in accordance with the principles of town planning set down in the Shilpa Shastra - an epochal treatise on the Hindu architecture. Culture : Hospitality is the main feature of the cultural specialities here. The city is also known for its colourful atmosphere, associated with well being and cheer. Climate & Geogaphical Location : Jaipur is very hot and dry in summer and extremely cold in winter. Jaipur is located at 431 metres above sea level. How to Reach By Air : Jaipur is well connected to Mumbai, Delhi, Rajkot, Aurangabad, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Ahmedabad. By Rail : Jaipur is the main railhead and has excellent connection with Delhi, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Ahmedabad, Secunderabad, Agra, Lucknow, Mumbai and Kolkata. By Road : Jaipur is on National Highway No. 8 connecting Delhi to Mumbai via Jaipur, Ajmer, Udaipur and Ahmedabad. Jaipur has a thorough network of comfortable deluxe tourist buses. Rajasthan Roadways runs excellent regular services of AC and Deluxe coaches from Delhi. Some road distances are Delhi 259 km, Udaipur 405 km, Jodhpur 336 km, Ahmedabad 657 km. Places to See : Samod 40 km north-west of Jaipur. The beautiful Samode Palace, has been rebuilt and renovated and provides a fine example of the Rajput haveli architecture and is an ideal spot for outgoings. Ramgarh Lake At 32 km north-east of Jaipur. A huge artificial lake, was created, by constructing a high bund admist tree covered hills. While the temple of Jamwa Mata and the ruins of the old fort, are some of its antiquities, its beautiful landscape, especially during monsoons, makes it an idyllic picnic spot. Nahargarh A sentinel to the Pink City, is Nahargarh Fort, situated beyond the hills of Jaigarh. Although much of it is in ruins, the lovely building, added by Sawai Ram Singh II and Sawai Madho Singh II provides interest to the fort. Sanganer At a distance of 12 km away from Jaipur city,Sanganer is located on the Tonk road. In addition to its ruined palaces, Sanganer ,has exquisitely carved Jain temples. The town is entered though the ruins of two tripolias (Triple gateways). The town is an important centre for the crafts industry and produces some of the finest hand printed textiles, from units of block and screen printers. This textile is popular all over the country and abroad. It is well connected by roads from Jaipur, apart from other cities. Amer Palace A beautiful complex of palaces, halls, pavilions, gardens and temples built by Raja Man Singh, over a period of about two centuries, still stand in a magnificent state. The palace complex, emerges dramatically from the placid waters of the Maotha Lake and is approachable only through a steep path. Tourists often ride on the elephant back to the Singh Pol and the Jaleb Chowk. Two flights of stairs rise from one end of the chowk, one leading to the Shila Mata Temple and other to the palace complex. The image of the patron goddess, worshipped by thousands of devotees, was brought from Jessore in East Bengal (now in Bangladesh) by Raja Man Singh, to be installed here. A spectacular pillared hall-- Diwan-e-Aam and a double storeyed painted gateway, Ganesh Pole, dominate the front courtyard. An elegant tiny garden in Charbag style, beyond the corridors, has Sukh Niwas to its right and Jas Mandir to its left. The latter combines the Mughal and Rajput architecture, seen in its beautiful interior with intricately carved Jali screens, delicate mirror and stucco work and painted and carved dadoes. The well proportioned Mohan Bari or Kesar Kyari in the centre of the Maotha Lake and the Dilaram Bagh at its north end provides a spectacular view of the palaces above. Sisodia Rani Garden Beautifully landscaped gardens, laid out in the 18th and 19th century, by kings and courtiers, dot the narrow gorge in the south-eastern corner of the walled city, along the road to Agra. Sisodia Rani Garden, has tiered multilevel gardens with fountains, water channel and painted pavilions and suites of living rooms. Amongst others, Vidyadhar-ka-Bagh, is the best preserved one, with shady trees, flowing water, and an open pavilion. It was built by the planner of the city, Vidyadhar. Amer Amer or Amber, was the former capital of the Kachhwaha Rajputs, of the old state of Dhundhar, for seven centuries. In the high season, this is one of India's most popular tourist sites, with a continous train of colourfully decorated elephants, walking up and down the ramp. From the side of the main road, one can catch a dramatic view of the hilltop palace. The Palace and the Jaigarh fort shows distinct Mughal influence. The City Palace In the heart of the old city, is the former royal residence, built in a blend of the Rajasthani and Mughal styles. The carved arches, are supported by grey-white marble columns, ornate with floral motifs in gold and coloured stones. Two carved elephants in marble, guard the entrance. The retainers whose families have served generations of rulers serve as guides. The Palace houses a museum with a superb collection of Rajasthani costumes and armoury, of Mughals and Rajputs, including swords, of different shapes and sizes with chased handles, some of them inlaid with enamel and embellished with jewels, and encased in magnificent scabbards. The palace also has an art gallery, with an excellent collection of miniature paintings, carpets, royal paraphernalia and rare astronomical works, in Arabic, Persian, Latin and Sanskrit, acquired by Sawai Jai Singh II, to study astronomy in detail. The palace is within city limits and accessible by road. Jantar Mantar This stone observatory, is the largest of Jai Singhs five remarkable observatories. Its complex instruments, whose settings and shapes are scientifically designed, represent the high points of medievial Indian astronomy. The most striking of these, are the Ram Yantras used for guaging altitudes. Hawa Mahal Built in 1799 A.D.,the Hawa Mahal or Palace of Winds, is a major Rajput landmark. This five storey building, along the main street of the old city, is in pink splendour, with semioctagonal and delicately honey combed sandstone windows. The monument was originally conceived, with the aim of enabling ladies of the royal household, to watch the everyday life and royal processions of the city. Govind Devji Temple This is the most popular spireless temple of Jaipur, and is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is located in the central pavilion of the Jai Niwas Garden to the north of Chandra Mahal. The image of the patron Deity-Govind Devji, originally installed in a temple at Vrindavan, was reinstalled here by Sawai Jai Singh as his family deity. Albert Hall Museum A lush spacious garden with a zoo, an aviary, a greenhouse, a herbarlum, a museum and a popular sports ground. It was built by Sawai Ram Singh II in 1868 A.D. as a famine relief project. The Albert Hall, a fine example of Indo-Sarcenic style of architecture, designed by Sir Swinton Jacob, was opened later with an exquisite collection of sculptures, paintings, decorative wares, natural history specimen, an Egyptian mummy and the celebrated Persian carpet. Recently, the Rabindranath Manch, with an auditorium, a modern art gallery and an open air theatre, has been added to promote cultural events. Galtaji An ancient pilgrimage centre, lying beyond the gardens, amidst low hills,temples. pavilions and holy kunds (natural spring and reserviors) along with lush landscape, make it a delightful spot. The small temple of the Sun God, built by Diwan Kriparam, on the top of the highest peak is visible from all parts of the city. BM Birla Planetarium The Planetarium offers unique audio-visual education and entertainment, with its modern computerised projection system. For school groups, concessions are available. It is closed on the last Wednesday of every month.
Jodhpur Travel Guide Jodhpur History : Set at the edge of the Thar desert, the imperial city of Jodhpur echoes with tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the desert. Once the capital of the Marwar state, it was founded in 1459 A.D. by Rao Jodha-chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs who claimed to be descendants of Rama - the epic hero of the Ramayana. The massive 15th century A.D. Mehrangarh Fort looms on the top of a rocky hill, soaring 125 Mts. Above the plains. The city is encompassed by a high wall -10 km long with 8 gates and innumerable bastions. A major trade centre of the 16th century A.D. the fortress-city of Jodhpur is now the second largest city of Rajasthan. How to Reach By Air : Jodhpur is well connected to all the major cities which includes Delhi, Mumbai, Calcutta, Jaipur, Udaipur. By Bus : Rajasthan Roadways run very comfortable deluxe & air conditioned buses from Delhi (Bikaner House, Nr. India Gate) to Jodhpur. The roads are very good, and it takes around 8-9 hrs from Jodhpur. You can also come by taxi. By Rail : Jodhpur is on the Broad Gauge and hence connected to all the metro cities of India. There are daily trains from Jaipur, Delhi, Mumbai & Kolkata. Getting Around : In the city you can travel by un-metered auto-rickshaws, buses, cycle-rickshaws or you can also use car cabs and car-taxi. The Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation operates of Jodhpur from 8.30 to 1.00 pm and 2 to 6 pm. The tour starts from the Tourist Bungalow. Places to See : Mehrangarh Fort Mehrangarh Fort was founded in 15th century by the Rathore Rajputs when they shifted their capital from nearby Mandore to Jodhpur.Mehrangarh appears to rise from bluff-coloured sandstone hill itself , so well built into the base that it is difficult to tell where the hill ends and the walls begin. It is approached by a series of seven gateways set at an angle so that armies could not charge them with any success. Past the gates, the fort-palace takes one's breath away . Across from huge courtyards are the set wings of palatial apartments that have been built over five centuries of bristling history. Today, managed as a museum by the royal trust that maintains it, only some of the more spectacular palaces of Mehrangarh are open to the visitors .These consists of Moti Mahal with its pierced screen windows overlooking the coronation seat where the Rathore ruler have been ritually anointed to rule ; Jhanki Mahal , the apartment from where the zenana women would watch ceremonial events ; Chandan Mahal, where affairs of state were discussed ; the royal Darbar Takhat or throne room with its octagonal throne ; and the Rang Mahal where the maharaja would play Holi with his Zenana .Also noteworthy are Sheesh Mahal , Phool Mahal , Umaid Vilas and Maan Vilas , while a large tent seized from the Mughals in battle is spread for viewing in what has came to be referred to as the Tent Room . Mehrangarh from the outside is impressive, and certainly forbidding. There is a surprizing lightness to it though, once actually within the fort. Jaswant Thada About Jaswant Thada The Jaswant Thada, located half way up the interminably long road that climbs onwards to the fort, is the traditional cremation ground of the rulers of Jodhpur. Taking pride of place amongst the ornamental gardens and chattris is the fabulous white marble memorial to Jaswant Singh II, built in 1899. The cenotaphs of other rulers , in the same neighborhood , are relatively simpler. Umaid Bhawan Palace Constructed of marble and pink sandstone this immense palace is also known as the Chhittar Palace because it uses local Chittar sandstone. Begun in 1929, it was designed by president of the British Royal Institute of Architects for Maharaja Umaid Singh and took 15 years to complete. Probably the most surprising thing about this grandiose palace is that it was built so close to Independence, after which Maharajas and their grand extravagances were a thing of the past. Umaid Singh died in 19478, four years after the palace was completed; the current Maharaja Gaj Singh II, still lives in part of the building. The rest has been converted into a hotel. Museum The museum has fine collection of sculptures, weapons and stuffed animals, including almost featherless desert birds in two glass cases. The military section includes wooden biplane models. Bal Samand Lake A pretty lake with a pleasure or summer palace, the Balsamand palace, on its banks. These are built around the artificial lake constructed in 1159 AD. Luni Fort Fort Chanwa of Luni is an exceptional example of Elegance and Symmetry in Indian architecture of the last century. The entire fortress is carved out of the famous red sandstone of Jodhpur and with its ornately carved lattice work friezes and intricate Jherokas it exquisitely captures the romance and grace of a bygone age. The Fort is composed of a lyrical complex of courtyards, towers, water-wheels, stables, passages and unexpected stairways to secret pavilions and panoramic roof tops spanning the village below and the Thar horizon beyond. The traditional paintings on the walls harmoniously reflect the skill of the master craftsmen and the bygone days. The village of Luni nestles in the shadow of the Fort walls and is a hub of activity with its many artisans fashioning metal, clay or wood into intricate forms and demonstrating the skills passed down over the centuries by their ancestors. The Fort has been beautifully restored to its former glory by its owners Maharaj Dilip singhji, the youngest son of H.H. Maharaja Umaid Singhji and his wife Rani Madhu. Each room has been created and decorated with its own particular charm and the many courtyards, verandahs and gardens all offer a setting and ambiance set to capture your heart. Khajuraho Travel Guide The temples of Khajuraho are India's unique gift to the world, representing, as they do, a paean to life, to love, to joy; perfect in execution and sublime in expression. Life, in every form and mood, has been capured in stone, testifying not only to the craftsman's artistry but also to the extraordinary breadth of vision of the Chandela Rajputs under whose rule the temples were conceived and constructed. The world renowned temple town of Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh designated by UNESCO as a world heritage site for its archaeological and historical monuments. The Khajuraho temples were built in the short span of a hundred years, from 950-1050AD in a truly inspired burst of creativity. Of the 85 original temples, 22 have survived till today to constitute one of the world's great artistic wonders. The Creators of Khajuraho claimed descent from the moon and the legend behind the founding of this great dynasty and the temples is a fascinating one. Hemwati, the lovely young 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 sensorious society, Chandravarman, when established as a ruler, had a dream-visitation from his mother. It is said that she implored him to build temples that would reveal human passions, and in doing so, bring about a realization of the emptiness of human desire. It is also possible that the Chandelas were followers of the Tantric cult, which believes that gratification of earthly desires is a step towards attaining the infinite liberation of nirvana. Why they chose Khajuraho, even then a small village, as the site for their great complex is also open to of their faith and the many beliefs represented in the temples, the Chandelas conceived Khajuraho as a seat of religion and learning, to bring together many sects. With their decline, the temples lay forgotten for many centuries, covered by the encroaching forests, victim to the ravages of the elements. Re-discovered only in this century, restored and claned, the temples of Khajuraho once again testify to a past glory. Architecturally too, they are unique, being very different from the temple prototype of their period. Each stands on a high masonry platform with a marked upward direction in the structure, further enhanced by vertical projections to create the effect of grace and lightness. Each of the chief compartments is mounted by its own roof, grouped so that the highest is in the centre, the lowest over the portico; a highly imaginative recreation of the rising peaks of the Himalayas, abode of the gods. The three main compartments are the entrance (ardha-mandapa), assembly hall (mandapa) and sanctum (garbha griha), with further additions in the more developed temples. How to Reach By Air : Regular services link Khajuraho with Delhi, Agra and Varanasi. By Rail : The nearest rail heads are Harpalpur (94 km) and Mahoba (61 km ) . Jhansi (172 km) is a convenient rail head for those traveling from Delhi and Madras; Satna (117 km) , on the Mumbai-Allahabad line of the Central Railway for those coming from Mumbai, Calcutta and Varanasi. By Road : Khajuraho is connected by regular buses with Satna, Harpalpur, Jhansi and Mahoba. Best Season : July to March. Places to See : The Creators of Khajuraho claimed descent from the moon and the legend behind the founding of this great dynasty and the temples is a fascinating one. Hemwati, the lovely young 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 sensorious society, Chandravarman, when established as a ruler, had a dream-visitation from his mother. It is said that she implored him to build temples that would reveal human passions, and in doing so, bring about a realization of the emptiness of human desire. It is also possible that the Chandelas were followers of the Tantric cult, which believes that gratification of earthly desires is a step towards attaining the infinite liberation of nirvana. Why they chose Khajuraho, even then a small village, as the site for their great complex is also open to of their faith and the many beliefs represented in the temples, the Chandelas conceived Khajuraho as a seat of religion and learning, to bring together many sects.f 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. Eastern Group of Temples Adinath Temple : Dedicated to the Jain saint, Adinath, the temple is lavishly embellished with sculpted figures, including yakshis. The three Hindu temples of the group are the Brahma, containing a four faced lingam, the Vamana, which is adorned on its outer walls with carving of apsaras in a variety of sensuous attitudes; and the javari, with a richly-carved gateway and exterior sculptures. More Details Western Group of Temples The Western group is certainly the best known, because it is to this group that the largest and most typical Khajuraho temple belongs: The Kandariya Mahadev. More Details Southern Group of Temples Dulah Deo Temple : This finest temple at Khajuraho also called Kunwar Math offers some of the choicest sculptures especially the Shalbhanjika. It is a fully developed temple measuring 21 m by 12 m (69 ft. by 40 ft.) with the ardhamanadap, the mandapa, the maha mandapa, the antarala and the garbha griha with no circumambulatory passage. Kullu Travel Guide The land of valley, Kullu is situated on the banks of pristine river Beas. Spread over a beautiful landscape of Himachal Pradesh, the city of Kullu is 240 km away from the state capital Shimla and 40 km from Manali. Kullu is considered as one of the famous hill stations of Himachal Pradesh, showcasing its panoramic splendor. Kullu - 'The Silver Valley' The name Kullu is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Kuluta' which means the suitable place to live in. Known for the 17th century old statue of Lord Raghunath, the city holds significance place in the history. From the pages of history, the existence of Kullu can be traced back in the first century of Christian era, founded by Behangamani Pal a native from Tripura. The city has great faith in the God that can be noticed in the surroundings of Kullu valley, where every village has got their own deity or tutelary. Travel to Kullu to discover the tradition, culture and habitat of the region. A land of nature’s pride, Kullu remains green throughout the year that offers an excellent venue to enjoy the most adventurous sports like trekking, skiing, para-gliding and water surfing. Tourists travelling to this part of country enjoy such activities, which is full of fun and thrill. Apart from adventure charms the city also houses the famous temples and wildlife and handicrafts work, that can be witnessed on the trip to Kullu. While moving around the market of Kullu, try to get one of those beautifully crafted hand woven shawls and cap. And if you are lucky enough to be there in the month of October then must attend the famous festival of Kullu called Kullu Dussehra. How To Reach By Air : Nearest airport is Bhuntar, which is located at a distance of 9 km from Kullu. Jagson airline connects Delhi, Shimla and Chandigarh to Bhuntar through its regular flights. Indian airline and Jagson airline runs extra flights during the peak summer season. Private taxi or bus services are available from the airport to the major part of city. By Train : Nearest railway station is Jogindernagar, which is located at a distance of 95 km from Kullu. Tourist cabs and state bus transport is available from the station to Kullu city on regularly basis. By Road : Situated on the national highway 21, Kullu is well connected by the road to Delhi-Chandigarh-Manali on a stretch of 570 km drive. HPTDC (Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation) runs deluxe and semi deluxe buses and connect kullu to major cities of India and Himachal Pradesh. Internal Transport To move in and around the city, one can hire private taxi or take local bus service. Generally, a tour is organized by the government or private agencies that cover the entire region of Kullu. Accommodations Kullu offers a wide range of options for the perfect leisure, holidays and business trip. Various types of accommodations available are from heritage and five star hotels and resorts to three star hotels. Places to See : Raghunath Temple Built by Raja Jagat Singh in 1660 AD, Raghunath temple is one of the famous tourists attractions in Kullu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, who is considered as tutelary of the entire Kullu Valley. It is believed that the temple is constructed by Raja Jagat Singh to compensate for the sin, committed by him. Bijli Mahadev Temple Located at an altitude of 2640m above sea-level, the Bijli Mahadev Temple is 11 km away from the Kullu valley. It is said that the temple attracts the divine blessings in the form of lightening. A perfect view of the Kullu valley can be seen from the temple. Wild Life Sanctuaries Kullu is famous for the wild life sanctuaries, that attracts huge number of tourists throughout the year, during the month of April - June and September - October. There are five wild life sanctuaries located in the surroundings of Kullu valley such as Great Himalayan National Park, Kais Sanctuary, Khokhan Sanctuary, Manali Sanctuary and Kanawar Sanctuary. These sanctuaries are known for highly endangered species like Western Tragopan, Musk Deer, Brown Bear, Snow Leopard and Cheer Pheasant. Hot Springs Hot spring in Kullu is much known for its medicinal value located at a distance of 4 km from the city. A bath in the hot water springs is said to cure all kinds of skin diseases. Monasteries in Kullu There are several monasteries located in the Kullu region depicting the events of Lord Budhha’s life. It also makes Kullu as one of the preferred pilgrim destinations for the followers of Buddhism religion. Excursion From Kullu Naggar Remained capital of Kullu for 1400 years, Naggar is famous for 16th century old stone and wood castle. The castle was build by Raja Sidh Singh in 1460 A.D. and later on handed over to HPTDC to run as a heritage hotel. Once in Naggar, must visit the gallery that showcases the paintings of the Russian artist, Nocholas Roerich. The city of Naggar is located at a distance of 26 km from Kullu and witness cold winter but pleasant summer. Parvati Valley & Manikarna Manikarna is known for its hot water springs, which is located at a distance of 45 kms from Kullu. Every year it attracts huge number of devotees, who takes holy dip in the hot water springs. The water is so hot that food can be cooked in it. It is believed that the divine associate of Lord Shiva Parvati gave birth to this magnificent hot water springs on the bank of river Parvati. Camping Sight Raison Located at a distance of 16 km from the Kullu valley, Raison is a perfect getaway for spending quite and peaceful holiday. The site provides an excellent view of the snowcapped peaks of Kullu region. HPTDC have developed it as one of the best picnic spots in the Kullu region. There are 14 wooden huts and a big grassy ground overlooked by the trees and apple orchards. Adventure Activities Skiing Travel to Kullu for best skiing experiences. Solang, which is located at a distance of 13 km from Kullu valley is one of the best ski area in India. Skiing courses and competitions are organised every year at Solang by the mountaineering institutes and Government of Himachal Pradesh. The most favourable season for skiing is from mid December to end of June. One should be equipped with skiing clothes like ski pants, gloves, caps and sunglasses. Fishing Places for trout fishing include Katrain, Raison, Kasol, Naggar, and along Tirthan river near Larji, in the Sainj Valley and Hurla Khud. Along with fishing the Beas offers excellent opportunities for whitewater rafting. Trekking Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges are the main trekking areas in Himachal Pradesh. These ranges are easily accessible from Kullu valley. Several treks lead over from Kullu valley to Lahaul & Spiti, Zanskar, Kinnaur and Kangra. Most treks pass through rugged and unspoiled terrain, deep forests and beautiful streams. Many old temples lie along the way. The best period to enjoy trekking in this region is from April to mid June and mid September to mid October. River-Rafting River rafting or white water rafting can be enjoyed in the Kullu valley on the downstream of Beas river from Pirdi to Jhiri. This is a 16 km long trek ranging from mild, medium and most difficult rapids. Other Attractions of the City Kullu Dussehra Dussehra is a week long celebration in kullu. Celebrated in the month of October, Kullu Dussehra is one of the important festivals of this region. On this day, the raths (Chariots) of Raghunathji, tutelary deity of the valley along with other deities are taken in a procession through the town to Dhalpur Maidan, where they reside for the next seven days.Cheerful crowds throng every road leading to Dhalpur Maidan, there are also various folk dances, exhibitions and cultural programmes held on this auspicious day. Shopping In Kullu The entire Kullu valley is famous for its embroidered work on shawls and caps. Shawls made from the hair of Angora rabbits and Pashmina goats are quite expensive and famous among the tourists. Other woolen items produced here are colourful Kullu caps and blankets. Travelers can purchase these handicraft items from the Akhara Bazar, a local market in Kullu.
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