tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-123904682023-10-24T03:02:14.684-07:00India - A ringside view....This blog will provide a common platform for people within India and outside...to obtain information about various places in India...Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger7125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12390468.post-1118061450487538972005-06-06T05:00:00.000-07:002005-06-06T05:37:30.493-07:00Puri - The abode of Lord JagannathOne of the celebrated religious centers of India, Puri, the abode of Lord Jagannath needs no introduction. <br />According to tradition Puri was once a thickly wooded hill inhabited by the Sabaras <br />(Pre-Aryan and Pre-Dravidian tribes of the Austric linguistic family).The sunny beach at Puri is one of the finest in the world. Watching the sunrise in a symphony of colours is a treat to the eyes. It is one of the most popular sea-side resorts where visitors from any part of the globe can comfortably relax.Many tourists consider the sea beach at Puri to be one of the most peaceful of all beaches in this part of the world.<br /><br />There are several places of tourist interest. However, the Jagannath temple stands out as the destination where people from far and wide come to pay their respects.<br />The celebrated Temple of Lord Jagannath now existent at Puri was constructed by Raja Ananta Varman Chodaganga Dev in 12th century A.D. and dominates the landscape for kilometers around.The wooden images of Jagannath Balabhadra and Subhadra were installed in that temple. <br />The management of the temple continued under the Hindu rulers till 1558, when the State of Orissa was conquered by the Afghan Nawab of Bengal and the temple was attacked by the Afgan General ‘Kalapahad’. Then, an independent Khurda kingdom was established by Ramachandra Deb, who assumed the management of the temple. He <br />reinstalled the deities. Raja Mansingh, a General of the Mughal King Akbar, defeated the Afghans and annexed Orissa in to the Mughal dominion. It remained under the Mughals till 1751 A.D. Till 1760, the temple continued under the Khurda Raja, who was paying tribute to Mughals and Marhattas. Marhattas took up direct management of the temple till 1803. The Britishers annexed Orissa into British empire in 1803 and allowed Puri Raja to manage the temple. <br /> <br />It is the tallest temple (65 metres) in Orissa and it is one of the most magnificent pieces of monuments of India. In front of the main gate stands a 16 sided monolithic pillar (11 metres high), called Aruna Stambha which formally stood in front of the Sun Temple and was brought to Puri during the 18th century A.D. Some of the other important temples are Gundicha, Lokanath, Sunaragauranga, Daria Mahabir and Tota Gopinatt. There are also a number of holy tanks like Narendra, Markandeya, Sweta Ganga and Indradyumna. There are many Monasteries locally known as Mathas also of <br />touristic interest.<br /><br />Puri can be visited by reaching Bhubaneswar by air and then travelling from there .Puri is 60 kms (approx.) from Bhubaneswar. Puri is also accessible by road and rail.<br /><br />Puri has several hotels to appease all kinds of visitors with varying budgets. The handicrafts of the region like Soap Stone, Sea-shell, Pattachitras and Palm Leaf paintings, Horn work, Wood carvings, and Solapith work can be purchased from Puri.<br />Puri offers a plethora of colourful fairs and festivals round the year. However the Ratha Yatra or Car Festival, Puri Beach Festival, Ganesh Puja, and Jhulana Jatra are among the more widely celebrated ones.There are various places around Puri which assume significance.<br /> <br />Balighai<br />(8 km)*<br /> The Casuarina fringed Balighai beach is a famous picnic spot. The Sun and fun at the mouth of the river Nuanai is unforgettable.<br /> <br />Brahmagiri<br />(25 km)*<br /> Brahmagiri is known for the living shrine of Alarnath. Streams of pilgrims visit Alarnath during Anabasara of Lord Jagannath. Nearby is the shrine of Baliharachandi on the solitary sand dunes.<br /> <br />Satyabadi<br />(20 km)*<br /> Satyabadi or Sakshigopal is known for the shrine of Lord Sakshigopal. It is believed that the visit to Puri is incomplete without a visit to Sakshigopal. The temple is only 2 km away from the main road leading to Puri and is convenient to visit.<br /> <br />Baliharachandi<br />(27 km)*<br /> 27 km to the south-west of Puri is the temple of Baliharachandi. Situated on a sandy hill near the sea and adjacent to the mouth of the river Bhargavi, Goddess Durga is worshipped here as Baliharachandi. The scenic beauty of this place is ideal for group picnic.<br /> <br /><br />Raghurajpur<br />(16 km)*<br /> One of the most famous artists village in Orissa, the village of Raghurajpur boasts not only of the exquisite pattachitra's and talapattachitra's, but also of being the native place of Guru kelucharan Mohapatra, the famed Odissi dancer. Even today, under the tutelage of renowned Guru's, young boys can be seen practicing the Gotipua dance here. A visit to Orissa would definitely be incomplete without a visit to this little village. <br /> <br />Satapara<br />(52 km)*<br /> Satapara, a retreat in nature on Chilika Lake, has been thrown open to visitors. Its location near the confluence of the Lake with the Bay of Bengal, and proximity to Puri (52 km), makes it an ideal spot to enjoy Chilika. The thrilling sight of dolphins round the year and abundance of migratory and resident birds in winter make it a preferred place for a vacation with nature. <br /> <br />A pilgrimage of India is incomplete without a visit to the abode of Lord Jagannath.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12390468.post-1117730101011867042005-06-02T09:27:00.000-07:002005-06-02T09:35:01.016-07:00Goa - The Rome of the EastGoa, a tiny emerald land of 3072sq.km was once a pride of Portugal's Eastern Empire.<br />The relatively new state of India with its wide and attractive beaches and beach resorts is a haven for holidaymakers. <br />Goa is a place for holidaymaker who seeks sun and sand,food and wine and even old forts and temples. Stretches of endless silver sand and white surf beaches is wetted by the rush of the 'azure' Arabian sea.<br /> <br />But there's so much more than the sun, sand and trance. The allure of Goa is that it remains distinct from the rest of the other Indian states, and is yet small enough to get hold of and explore in a myriad of different ways. Its not just the familiar remnants of European colonialism that make Goa seem so accessible,but rather the prevalence of Christianity and some form of socio-political progressiveness that tourists most notably Westeners, can relate to.<br /><br />This former Portuguese enclave located on the western coast of India has enjoyed a prominent bookmark in the travellers diary since the early days of the 1960's.<br /><br />The palm-lined coastal plains, the wooded uplands and beaches so still and endless, create an illusion of lethargy. But in reality, Goans are hardworking, full of song, dance and merriment. Tourism is the main money-spinner and the majority of the population is engaged in related business. <br /><br />Blend of East & West -- Goa's 450 years under Portuguese domination produced a unique, syncretize blend of East and West. Beer is cheap along with the more traditional tipples of feni, the local drink.<br /><br />A tropical paradise on the Konkan Coast, Goa is a perfect holiday destination. Goa tourism perhaps brings into one's mind the golden beaches those stretch for miles and it's numerous beach resorts. But there are more here - scores of temples and churches and the ruins of ancient monuments those were built during the Portuguese era. <br /><br />Goa is the domicile of a fun loving people. There is none more full of song, dance and merriment than the Goan and both the town and countryside spring to life during the carnival time or any other festival time. Goa Tourism means to celebrate with the Goans to enjoy the life to the fullest. <br /><br />Beaches are the most attractive and frequented spots in Goa. In fact, Goa is almost synonymous with beaches and beach resorts. Nearly the entire coastline is dotted with world-class beaches and beach resorts to suit one's liking. Kissed by the passionate, azure sea and embraced by the land and shaded by swaying palms, these miles of golden sand sparkling in the sun are the most desired places you can ever love on earth. <br /><br />Goa Tourism Development Corporation, an autonomous Government organization, is at the helm of the tourist programmes in Goa. They conduct package tours and provide all required assistance for the tourists. <br /><br />Facts at a Glance <br /><br />Capital City: Panaji<br />Aiport: Dabolim (29kms from Panaji)<br />People: Goans<br />Language spoken: English is widely spoken and understood. Konkani (The Official State language) and Hindi are the other languages used for communication.<br />Religion: Hindu, Christian and Muslim<br />Time: Five and a half hours ahead of GMT.<br />Climate: Maximum temperature of 35 degrees Celsius. Minimum temperature of about 15 degrees Celsius. Rainfall is upto 900 mm in the monsoons (June-August). <br /><br />Best times to visit <br /><br />Goa's lifestyle is best experienced during the winter months between October and end of February. At any other time, you're likely to either roast under the sun or find yourself threatened by the downpour of the seasonal monsoon rains that lash the state between the months: June - August and a little in September. The months of January, February and March are the best for witnessing Hindu festivals and celebrations. January has the colourful festival of Shantadurga Prassana, February, the 3-day zatra of Shri Mangueshi, and in March is the festival of Holi, called Shigmo.<br /><br />Goa is one destination in India you just cannot afford to leave out in your travel plans.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12390468.post-1116036265256542332005-05-13T18:58:00.000-07:002005-05-13T19:10:24.096-07:00Kanyakumari - The tip of IndiaKanyakumari is located at the Southern most part of India and is the place where the Indian ocean,the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian sea confluence . The multicoloured sand is an unique feature of the beach at Kanyakumari.<br />By its very location, Kanyakumari occupies a unique place among the tourist centres of India. <br />It is one of the important pilgrim centres of India.This is the only place in India where one can enjoy the unique experience of watching the sunset and moonrise simultaneously on a full moon evening.<br />Palm leaf articles of Kanyakumari are very famous. <br />Kanyakumari was once referred to as the "ALEXANDRIA OF THE EAST".<br />During the early part of the 8th century A.D,Islam entered the southern part of India through the sea route with traders and Missionaries through St.Thomas,one of the twelve Apostles of Christ.<br />Islam,Christianity and Jainism religions have greatly contributed to the Architectural wealth and literal heritage of this place.Kanyakumari was also under the control of the Cholas,the Cheras,the Pandyas and the Nayaks who were the great rulers of South India.<br /><br />The shore temple in this famous Pilgrim centre is dedicated to the virgin goddess Devi Kanyakumari, who eternally protects the country.The temple is a symbol of unity and sanctity.One can also see "SRI PADAPARAI", the footprints of the virgin goddess.The Guganathaswamy temple is a 1000 year old temple which was built by Raja Raja Cholan. <br />Kanyakumari is the place where every Indian craves to visit at least once and international tourists to India rarely miss the enigmatic beauty of Kanyakumari.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12390468.post-1115817607729079002005-05-11T06:14:00.000-07:002005-05-11T06:20:07.736-07:00Jaipur - The Pink City of IndiaJaipur, popularly known as Pinkcity, was built in 1727 AD by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and designed by the brilliant young Bengali architect Vidhyadhar Bhattacharya. <br />Encircled by a formidable wall, Jaipur was the only planned city of its time. <br />The palace lies in the heart of the city . The wall has seven gates and was built for protection from invading armies and animals that lived in jungles which surrounded the wall that time.<br />Today, ofcourse, the city has spread beyond the walls and there is hardly any jungle left even in the vicinity of the walled city.<br />Jaipur was color washed pink to create an impression of red sandstone buildings of mughal cities. There's an amazing appeal to Jaipur's colorful bazaars, beautifully laid out gardens, parks & the monuments.<br /><br />Places of interest are located mainly in the walled city.<br /><br />Jaipur cannot be explained. It is a city with a timeless quality where the ancient and the modern coexist in complete harmony. <br />A must visit if you are in India.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12390468.post-1115368463981617552005-05-06T01:30:00.000-07:002005-05-06T01:34:23.990-07:00Bhubaneswar- The City of templesOrissa lies on the eastern coast of India wedged between the states of West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh with the waters of the Bay of Bengal swirling along its eastern and southeastern boundaries. The capital city of Orissa is Bhubaneswar - the city of temples.<br />Bhubaneswar-with its over a hundred temples-provides an ideal introduction to the rich cultural heritage of the state of Orissa. The Lingaraja Temple and the Rajarani Temple (11th century AD) are important in the city and warrants a visit. <br /><br />Nearby places like the Khandagiri and Udayagiri caves (Approx 8 KMS)belonging to the 1st-2nd century BC can be taken up. A visit to Dhauli (8 km) with the Buddhist Peace Pagoda and the Botanical Gardens at Nandan Kanan (120 km) cater to a variety of interests from all walks of life. <br /><br />One of the four religious centres in India, Puri (60 kms from Bhubaneswar) in Orissa is famous for its Jagannath Temple. <br />Puri, a popular beach resort is of special attraction for visitors fond of swimming in the sea. Excursions to Balighai (8 km), a picnic spot and Satyabadi (20 km) with its shrine dedicated to Lord Sakshigopal are recommended.<br /><br />With its famous Sun Temple, Konark is the high point of a visit to the Golden Triangle of Orissa. The temple, built in the 13th century and now in ruins, is replete with stone sculptures. The temple is one of the unrivalled technical marvels of ancient India. <br /><br />HOW TO REACH <br /><br />By Air <br /><br />Bhubaneswar is the only civil airport in the state connected to different parts of the country through regular flights. The major cities connected to Bhubaneswar are Calcutta, Chennai, Visakhapatnam, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. <br /><br />By Rail <br /><br />There is an extensive railway network that connects different parts of the state to the other parts of the country. Bhubaneswar and Puri are the major railheads for the state. <br /><br />By Road <br /><br />There is a good road network in the state connecting it with the other parts of the country as well as different places within the state. The National Highways 5, 6, 23, 42, and 43 pass through the state.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12390468.post-1115272261253292912005-05-04T22:44:00.000-07:002005-05-04T22:51:01.256-07:00Agra - The City of the 'Taj Mahal'Agra, better know as the city of 'The Taj' is famous all over the world for its magnificient edifice - The Taj Mahal. Agra is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh in the northern region of India. It is approximately 200 kilometers from Delhi, the capital of India. Agra can be visited throughout the year, but one must avoid the extreme hot summers (April-June) and rainy season (July-Sept). The most suitable time to visit Agra is in winters.<br />There is no other monument in the world, which can match the beauty and grandeur of the Taj Mahal. The massive marble structure of the Taj is awe-inspiring. The Taj Mahal was built in the 17th century by Shahjahan- the fifth Mughal emperor, in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Shahjahan loved his wife so much that after she passed away in 1631, he decided to immortalize their love in the form of the Taj Mahal. It is more than 350 years since Taj Mahal was built, but it has not lost its romantic aura, which attracts millions of visitors towards it all over the world.<br /><br />The importance of Agra and more particularly- The Taj Mahal can never be over emphasised in the topography of India. It is a must visit.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12390468.post-1114307799867002782005-04-23T18:47:00.000-07:002005-04-23T19:07:10.946-07:00Welcome aboard !!!India...they say.....is a land of temples.....but there is obviously more to it....which is evident from the number of tourists visiting India from all corners of the globe....This platform....is exactly that...a common platform to gain an insight into the numerous places....in India...India..is a land of villages...and it will not be fair...to leave villages...and towns...out of this platform...It is a difficult task....indeed...considering the vast ...and diverse ...cultures and languages spoken in the country...and my attempt is to make this platform as large...as I can...just like India...I welcome any one interested to contribute to this common platform....to please get in touch with me....Let's say...you are from a remote town in India...you can contribute ...with events, places of tourist interest, geography...and the history of your small town....and anything under the sun relating to your town...for that matter.....COME ON !!! Let's make this a vibrant blog....as vibrant as India....Let's do it....together....we can !!!!.............<div class="blogger-post-footer"><script type="text/javascript"><!--
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</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0