Jaipur City Tour

Posted on May 1, 2012 by admin

This abode of Kings is one of the most exotic locales for tourist world over. The state has not only survived in all its ethnicity but owes its charisma and color to its enduring traditional way of life. It is a land of superlatives; everything over here is breathtakingly beautiful, impressive and fascinating. The state is well connected with the other parts of the country and easily approachable by trains, bus and air that makes travel easy and comfortable.Jaipur, Rajasthan’s vibrant capital, is a city where culture echoes, traditions speak and diversity delights. Whether you have tourism on your agenda, are a fly-by night business traveller, have a penchant for shopping or just a gourmand, the city has plenty on its platter for them.

Once in Sawai Jai Singh’s ‘Pink City’ you could whirl your mind, dazzle your eyes and fall in love with history a rich fusion of people and their lifestyles, then and now. While in Jaipur open your mind to the times of yore for it is a city where the old and the new throb in absolute harmony. Jaipur - Hawa Mahal
While you do have the option of exploring Rajasthan on your own, we bring you well studied circuits that could facilitate your itinerary and help you to see all and do all. The conducted half-day and full-day tours will enable you to see the important monuments.

Places of Interest


Where do you begin? Well you have options. In Jaipur you could begin your tour with 274 years old walled city with narrow winding streets. The Hawa Mahal or simply take a tour out to the forts and gardens. Beginning with the forts is an option most tourists opt for.Amber Fort Jaipur

The enchanting Amber Palace once the throne of power, in Red Sandstone with marble interiors is a fascinating blend of the Rajput and Mughal architecture. A guided tour will showcase the Kali Temple, with huge silver lions and silver doors also known as Shila Devi Temple and the hall for public audiences, Diwan-I-Aam, Ganesh Pol, The Hall of Victory, Jai Mandir with stunning ceiling adorned with mirror work arid inlaid panels are simply fantastic.Elephant Festival Tour - Jaipur

On your way back, you could visit the old township of Amber that lies at the foothills with ancient temples that you would like to see. The Jagat Shiromani Temple, the Narsingh Temple and the Panna Meena Ki Baodi are temples worth a visit. Little ahead are the carved cenotaphs that stand memoirs of the kings and the Queens. Beautifully located Gaitor and Maji Ki Chhatri, or the Maharani’s cenotaphs, are a must see.Jeep Drive - Amber Fort Jaipur

A little detour would take you on the road uphill to the spectacular Jaigarh and the Nahargarh Fort. Get pedestrian and you could explore the rugged nevertheless majestic forts. Begin with Jaigarh that houses the largest canon on wheels- Jai

Van. In the 15th century for architecture showcases an emplary art of rainwater harvesting with water channels creating a well-concealed step well for the queens. And do carry your camera. You can capture some beautiful shots that would stay as pleasant reminiscences.

Done with the hills, then halt at the gardens and lake. The newly restored Kanak Vrindavan Temple complex and the Jal Mahal Palace are a sight to behold more so after the rains.

Now take a break from the forts, and go explore the old walled city. Shops stocked with local wares lace the wide streets. And while you fill your bags with the most exquisite handcrafted items, typically rajasthani bandhej (Tie and Dye) or blissful sanganeri fabric, you have the option of  being a part of the artisans at work.

For More Details :  Rajasthan Tours – India, Golden Triangle Tour India and North India Nepal Tours.

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Kerala Honeymoon Packages

Posted on April 2, 2012 by admin

Kerala is the ultimate for backwater weddings and a fantastic honeymoon. The ‘God’s Own Country’ has wonderful prospects for a beach wedding and a honeymoon at Kovalam, Somatheeram, Varkala and ShanghumUkham. Kerala’s dreamy watery havens like Kollam, Allapuzha, Kuttanad, Kumarakom, Kasargod, Thiruvallam, and Kozikode have everlasting charm. Huge and slow-gliding barges called Kettuvallam are traditional backwater cargo carriers. Allapuzha, ‘the Venice of the East’ alone has 600 plus.

Houseboat-in-keralaIf wedding and honeymoon in Kerala is your calling, then the choice could be between resorts and Kettuvallam.

Kerala Honeymoon Packages
Taj Garden Retreat Kumarakom offers a three-day Malyali-Style wedding package.

Kerala Honeymoon Tour

Right from Thalapoli, where girls dressed in Malyali attire holding lamps and garlands welcome the guests; to recreating a Kerala temple ambience at the dinner; a cruise on Vembanad lake Syrian Christian buffet, and a traditional wedding by Namboodiri priest can be a part of the package. The entertainment includes enjoying Kathakali and Mohiniattam. The typical Kerala cuisine of rice, vegetable dishes along with seafood and meat topped with ‘Payasam’ is bound to add that spicy tang to your special trip.

For More Details: Kerala Honeymoon Packages and South India Tours.

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About Old Delhi

Posted on March 2, 2012 by admin

Delhi’s seven cities, the seats of empire, made it an important hub during the British rule and thus, in  1857, when almost two-third of  India came under their control, the British shifted their headquarters to Delhi, and soon after, in December 1911, shifted their capital from Kolkata to Delhi.

As the decision to build the eighth city of Delhi was formed, search for a good location led the British to lay the foundation stone at Kingsway Camp, only to be removed later and shifted to Raisina Road, around which, Delhi’s eighth city — New Delhi — was decided to be built. With Lutyens and Baker as the key architects, the task about making up of  New Delhi was started with full gusto that took as many as 20 years of arduous work to complete. The area of  New Delhi was called DIZ — Delhi Imperial Zone. Here no procession no protest and no opposition were allowed or could take place in the British rule. India Gate, which at that time was called the War Memorial, was the privilege of the few. British had lened the hierarchy and the caste system from India and used it judiciously to keep their workmen at bay. 

The imperial Delhi was way out of reach of the commoner in the 1930s. The Connaught Place, which today pulsates with life, was devoid of any Indian food and Indian movie in the inner circle for many years as per the instructions by its then rulers. The only Indian touch to the place during the pre-independence time was a Laxmi Restaurant in the outer circle and later on, a Nirulas was added for company.

Not many of us know that New Delhi, which was designed by Lutyens and Baker and planned by the British, was done keeping a population of 40,000 - 50,000 in mind. Well, no wonder the city is in a bad condition, juggling to create space at every corner. Delhi today is totally a chaotic mess. It is neither urban nor rural. It is just a communal mess, inhabited by people who have no idea what Delhi was — the beautiful city of gardens that had charmed an adolescent like me on my many frequent visits from Lahore.

Back in the times of the British, the Havelock circle (what we today call the Gol dakkhana that lies in shambles) was the main square and the Havelock road was the main area in the DIZ. It was the most prominent area of the imperial Delhi. The road used to be sprinkled with water at 4 am every morning and one could walk barefoot on the stretch, while taking in the serene beauty that Delhi exuberated then. Today, it’s all a concrete jungle.

However, Delhi’s charms exist untouched in its older parts, i.e., the good Old Delhi. Mughal’s architectural imprint, in the form of various monuments and gothic structures, are the pride and soul of  Delhi. From the parathe wali gali to the coffee shops,  payes served at Jama Masjid, Jama Masjidthe chat shops, owners of which are families that have been into these businesses for many years now, all leaves a person in complete awe of the place. I can safely say that the charm of Old Delhi has not lessened with time, or population. In fact, with the metro having made inroads in this old part of Delhi, the region has become all the more accessible for people today.

For More Details. City Tours of Delhi and Photo Gallery of Delhi Thanks.

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Heritage Tour of Goa

Posted on February 1, 2012 by admin

It is no wonder that there are many UNESCO designated World Heritage sites in India. The masterpiece of Taj Mahal, the Fort of Agra, the temples of Khajuraho are just a few of the examples. The churches and convents of Goa were inscribed by UNESCO under the World Heritage List in 1986 as cultural property.

Archaeological Museum Velha Goa
A visit to Old Goa will reveal the archaic flavour of Christianity. Here, one can visit St. Francis Tomb at the venerable Basilica de Bom Jesu. Across the Terreiro de Sabaio square one can reach Se Cathedral, dedicated to St. Catherine and at the western end of Old Goa stands the Chapel of Our Lady of the Rosary, one of Goa’s oldest churches. Keeping her company are the Royal Chapel of St. Anthony and the Convent of St. John of God. These sites display an impressive array of medieval European architecture, a beautiful amalgamation of Portuguese-Gothic style with a Tuscan exterior and Corinthian interior.

Church Francis Assisi

Goa’s heritage is a fusion of Hindu and Portuguese influences. It is this cultural richness that makes this destination a historical paradise.


Goa, the world famous tourist place of India is mostly known for its spectacular beaches, but this is the high time to explore Goan heritage as well. There is no need to think that Goa is only about old churches and monuments. Goa actually has a lot of ancient temples in the heart of the city as well as various parts of the state. Even Goa Tourism has a ’PilgrimTour — Temples’, where you can visit Shri Mahalakshmi Temple at Panaji,

shri-mahalakshmi-temple

Shri Mahalakshmi Temple

Gomanteshwar Temple at Bramhapuri, Shantadurga Temple at Kunkoliem, Mangesh
Temple at Pirol, Mahalsa Temple at Mardol, Ananta Temple at Savoi, Ramnath Temple at Ramnathi, ShantadurgaTemple at Kavle, Naguesh Temple at Bandora and Gopal Ganapati Temple at Farmagudi.

Shree Ramnath Temple

On the other hand, for ‘Pilgrim Tour – Churches’, you have to visit old Goa for the Pilar Seminary at Pilar, Basilica of Born Jesus, St. Cajetan, Se Cathedral, St. Francis of Assisi, Museum of Christian Art and St. jerome’s Church (Milagres)
at Mapusa, Mae de Dues Church at Saligao and Reis Magos Church at Verem.

Shree Gopal Ganpati Temple

Archaeological Museum, Velha Goa, is one of the most significant site museum of the Archaeological Survey of India which has been functioning since 1964 from the convent of St. Francis of Assisi. The antiquities displayed in the gallery include sculptures of Brahmanical deities like seated Uma-Maheshvara with Kartikeya, Bhringi, Kala Bhairava, Lakshmi, torso of a warrior, Shiva Linga, of the early Chalukyan period followed by the Silharas and Kadambas of Goa.The objects showed here are various Shikharas of temples, replicas of pillar, Nandi, Ganesha, Mahishasuramardini and a standing Vishnu with Garuda. Hero and Sati stone of early and medieval periods, portraits of Governors and Viceroys of Goa, currency revenue and court fees stamps, wooden and bronze sculptures and armoury of the Portuguese period. There is an old drawing of the city of old Goa dated back to  1509 AD a 2.2 metre high stone statue of Afonso de Albuquerque and another 3 metre high bronze statue of Luize de Camoes ( 1524- 1580), the national poet of Portugal. The one eyed poet holds in his hand scrolls of his poem, the Lusiads, which describes the voyage of Vasco da Gama from Portugal to India and return. The conjectural site plan of chandor, the ancient and medieval capital city on the river bank of Kushavati, is on display here.

For More Details : City Tours of Goa and Photo Gallery of Goa.

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God’s Own Country Kerala

Posted on January 2, 2012 by admin

KERALA THE LAND OF MYRIAD PLEASURE, IS A PLACE WHICH ATTRACTS TOURISTS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD. SITUATED ON THE SOUTHERNMOST TIP OF INDIA, IT HAS ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL AND ROMANTIC LANDSCAPES.

Kerala’s unique culture and traditions blended with its eye catching demography take tourists to another world. Kerala is famous for its lush green forests, beautiful houseboat, sensational beaches, and divine hills, palm fringed backwaters and scared wildlife. The hills of Kerala dot the Western Ghats from Ponmudi in the South to Munnar in the centre and Sultan’s Bathery in the North. The beaches are spread along the 550 km of Arabian Sea. Star ting from the beaches of Kochi to the hill station of Munnar tourist tend to explore fascinating things about the place.

Beach of Kerala

The journey starts from Thiruvananthapurarn or Trivandrum which is the capital of the state located on the southernmost tip of India. Trivandrum is one of the urbanized cities of south India. Kovlam Beach located just 16km from the capital is one of the loveliest beaches of the country. Trivandrum is the blend of ancient artifacts with the modern living.

If one wants to see the cultural heritage and archeological wealth then, Thrissur is the best place to visit. Considered as the Cultural Capital of Kerala. Thrissur is the home of number of pilgrimage centers.View of Backwater
The city of Kochi is best known for its ancient cultures of Dutch, Portuguese and English. One can find ancient churches, colonial structures and enchanting backwaters which makes Kochi a niche place for the tourists. If one wants to have some fun on backwater houseboat then Kumarakom is an ideal place to visit. The backwater journey will led the tourist to the rich Green, rural area of Kumarakom leading to beautiful vedamond Lake. Kumarakom is also famous its birds sanctuary that attracts nature lovers.
Alappuzha or Alleppey also known Venice of the East Is equally an ideal place for backwater houseboat cruise. Alleppey is famous globally for its snake boat race. One can experience village lifestyle during his stay on houseboat cruise along the backwaters of Alleppey.
If someone is looking for exotic hills, then Munnar is the place to visit. Its brilliant hilly resorts are world famous. One can experience the beauty of the nature and get themselves involved in adventurous activities. Glorious Mountain blended with beautiful waterfalls tends to make the tourist forget all his tensions and worries. Er- avikulam national park is one of the main tourist attractions, where one can find the endangered species. Thekkady which conjure the image of elephants has an unending chain of hills and spice scented plantations. In the Periyar forest of Thekkady is one of the finest wildlife reserves In India, and spread across the entire district are picturesque plantations and hill towns that hold great opportunities for treks and mountain walks.
Tourist coming to Kerals takes enchanting memories of the place and its mind blowing natural beauty with them. Every moment of holiday in Kerala move the travellers ahead in the conclusion that Kerala’s awe-inspiring scenic beauty is beyond comparison and the land is truly called. God’s own country.

For More Details: South India Tours and Tours of South India .

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Ayurveda Treatments

Posted on December 9, 2011 by admin


Ayurveda is as ancient as the beginnings of human understanding and yet, it is as rooted in the every day and the here and now. It encompasses the five primal elements that surround us – earth, water, fire, air and space. At the same time Ayurveda also implies a belief in the idea of matter being in a continuous state of flux, or flow, or of cycles of creation and destruction that you may see in so many symbols of Eastern art and mythology.

For instance, in Indian iconography, there is the image of a snake swallowing its own tail, which finds an echo in the symbol used by Aesculapius, the Greek god for healing that shows a snake curling around a rod. Or in the perfectly balanced image of yin (dark) and yang (light) energy with two opposing dots or circles. The concept is said to have been originally created by the father of traditional Chinese medicine, Emperor Fu Xi, some 3000 years ago. Finally, of course, there is the tremendous image of the Shiva Tandava, leg raised, hair and outer garments swirling within a ring of fire, doing what is described as a cosmic dance of creation and destruction.

Part of the practice of Ayurveda consists of striving for a state of balance between the different forces that underlie the elements. This balance creates an inner sense of harmony that is contained in the idea of a centre that remains radiant with the possibility of infinite change. A person is made up of four parts body, sense, mind and soul that is also rendered sometimes as body-mind-soul. Each level envelops the other like a seed, protected by different layers that make it possible for it to grow. The individual who understands this becomes the vehicle for taking on and maintaining the divine order by making sure that he or she preserves the laws that can lead to a happier healthier way of living. That is why Ayurveda is often described as the fifth Veda, a word that means complete knowledge. Ayus means life, thereby indicating a complete blueprint for life.

According to popular legend it all began when the gods themselves realized that it was not enough to have the ability to live to a grand old age. They needed to know the secret of good health. To this end they organised a conclave and deputed the Sage Bharadwaja to look into the matter. He went to Indra, who was known as the thousand-eyed one, who had intuited the study of Ayurveda. It is said that he passed his knowledge on to Athreya, the earliest authority on Indian medicine, who had it given to him from Shesha the Serpent gods, the one with a thousand hoods. It’s fascinating to note how often serpents come into the picture. Sometimes they are depicted as the guardians of some special herb, or mineral that is hidden in the ground. At other times, they represent the vital force or energy that rises through the channels, that are said to lie parallel to the spinal column in the body. Eastern medicine describes the different ways of awakening the nodal points, that are referred to as chakras by practitioners of yoga and meditation.

One of the aims of Ayurvedic treatment is to keep the channels through which the life force, or prana, travels, free from obstruction. Or as a practitioner explained: “It’s a system of energy where the jirana flows in all the parts of an organism, interacts and influences one another. We believe that everything is inter-related and the body is a miniature replica of the universe.” Amongst the early practitioners of Ayurveda, Charaka was believed to be an incarnation of Shesha. It’s from him that he learnt the science of healing and compiled the first text on medicine, called Samhita. Sushruta is credited to have produced the first major treatise on surgical procedures.

At the most basic level, Ayurveda describes the body as being influenced by three forces, or humours, or types of individuals, which is determined by birth, or what we may call our genetic pattern. Equally, these three main categories may form subcategories. Part of an Ayurvedic physician’s diagnostic skills that may depend on ‘reading’ the pulse, studying the condition of a person’s tongue, skin, saliva, sweat, smell, colour and other physical attributes is in identifying the body type and finding out what blockages might have occurred in the system to put it out of sync.

They then match their findings with ten other principles or factors, such as age, season, mental state, compatibility and so forth with a close study of the dietary habits of the patient. A well known saying that is attributed to Charaka has him telling a student who asked him, whether food constituted half the success of finding a cure in ayurveda, “No, it is almost all of Ayurveda.” A strict regimen of fasting and eating must almost always be followed while taking the cure. The preparation and even the sequence in which some of these food items are prepared and consumed is also given great significance.

Though the practice of Ayurveda declined in or about the 15th century, there has been a tremendous revival of interest since the early 20th century. One of the earliest centres was started at Kottakkal in Kerala in 1902, when Vaidyaratnam P.S.Varier started the Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala to research and revive the ancient systems of treatment. The various forms of oil massage using herbal oils have become a part of the tourism industry now. There is also an interest in studying and tracking down the innumerable herbs and medicinal plants that grow in the Western Ghats and Himalayan regions.

As one of its practitioners says, “Ayurveda uses all forms of known medical systems and naturally occurring substances to treat all forms of disease, so we welcome the interest that people are showing for our way of treating disease in all parts of the known world.”


ELEMENTS OF AYURVEDA


Ayurveda distinguishes three main elements in distinguishing body types. These are called humours or doshas and may relate to physical characteristics as well as personality.

• The vata dosha is related to the wind. It contains the idea of lightness and speed. Persons tend to be lean and artistic in nature
• The pitta dosha is related to fire. It contains the idea of warmth and empathy with other people. Persons tend to be passionate and caring.
• The kapha dosha related to water. implies the idea of binding and creating a sense of belonging. Like the element of water, they are life sustaining people who radiate love.

Click for South India Ayurveda Tours

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UNESCO ‘World Heritage Sites’ in India

Posted on November 3, 2011 by admin

Monuments of India

Beginning from 1983, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has recognised these as ‘World Heritage Sites’. It’s a long trek since the West began to take active interest in the archaeological and natural heritages of India in the late 18th and 19th centuries. Take for example the Ajanta Caves in Maharashtra — dating back to 2nd century AD – brought to light by Lieutenant (later General Sir) James E. Alexander in 1824. He wrote an account of the caves and their murals in Royal Asiatic Society’s journal Transactions in 1829. There are at present 22 cultural i.e. historical and five natural ‘world heritage sites’. Some 19 more are awaiting recognition for the last ten to two years respectively. An Indian Journey profiles the UNESCO world heritage sites of India region-wise for you.

(The years mentioned in the brackets represent the year in which the site was declared a UNESCO world heritage site).

India’s architectural genius has blossomed across two millennia and found expressions in numerous ageless monuments. Indian Journey takes you on a region-wise tour of 22 cultural sites on UNESCO ‘World Heritage Sites’ list.

Taj Mahal (1983)
Taj Mahal is considered a masterpiece of Mughal architecture. it is a glorified mausoleum of Emperor Shah Jahan and his favourite wife Mumtaz Mahal who predeceased him. The white domed marble structure, with its four characteristic minarets is a post card icon of India. It is set in a spacious Charbagh, or Mughal Garden complex. Taj is known to have been built over a period of 17 years, using labour and money onan unimaginable scale.

Friday closed.

Taj Mahal Agra

Related this tour : Golden Triangle Tour of India and Colors of Rajasthan.

Agra Fort (1983)

Also called the Red Fort of Agra, it looks down upon the famed mausoleum Taj Mahal across the river Yamuna. . Mughal Emperor Akbar (1542-1605) made Agra his capital and commissioned this massive red sandstone fort. Built in eight years with combined labour of more than a million masons, it was expanded to its present shape by his grandson Shah Jahan and harbours a number of ornate structures.

Agra - Red Fort

Fatehpur Sikri (1986 )

Fatehpur (‘the City of Victory’), 26 kilometers from Agra, served as the short-lived capital of Mughal Emperor Akbar between 1571 and 1585. The Emperor’s ambitions wilted due to shortage of water before he reinstated the capital to Agra. Buland Darwaza (‘Gate of Grandeur’), Panch Mahal (‘Five Storied Palatial Structure’) and wisecracker Raja Birbal’s house make some of the interesting sites.

Open all days.

Buland Darwaza

Minar and its Monuments (1993)

Qutab Minar, the 238-ft (72.5 m) five storey high sandstone minaret in Mehrauli area makes a travel guide icon of Delhi. Its construction history spanned three hundred years of Delhi Sultantate. The other important structure in the complex is the ruined mosque of Quwwat-ul-lsIam (The Might of Islam).Qutab Minar - Delhi

Red Fort Complex (2007)

Hen Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan shifted the capital from Agra to Delhi in 1639, he built the Lal Qua (Red Fort). The major buildings inside the fort are Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), Khas Mahal (Imperial Chambers), Zenana (Women’s Chambers), Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque), and Hayat Baksh Bagh (a garden).

Red Fort Delhi

Related this tour : Impressions of India and Rajasthan Tour.

Humayun’s Tomb (1993)

The earliest Mughal monument of repute in India ranks also amongst best preserved one. Humayun’s tomb in Delhi was commissioned either by his eldest widow Haji Begum, or his on Emperor Akbar. The Mughal practice of building gardened-tombs began with Humayun’s Mausoleum.

Humayun Tomb

Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka (2003)

The rock shelters of Bhimbetka, 45  km south of Bhopal, harbour exquisite Stone Age rock paintings dating approximately 9,000 years ago. According to popular legend the place was reinvented as the parlour of Bhima (Bhima Bhaitaka), the third Pandava brother in the Mahabharata. The paintings, actually a handiwork of pre-historic cavemen, depict scenes from their everyday life.

Buddhist Monuments, Sanchi (1989)

Sanchi, a quaint village 46-km northeast of Madhya Pradesh capital Bhopal, was the site of protracted Buddhist architectural activities between 3rd century BC and 12th century AD. The great Stupa or Buddhist relic mound- commissioned by Emperor Asoka became the nucleus of architectural and artistic enterprise that continued through Sunga, Satvahana and Gupta period.

Buddhist Monuments Sanchi

Related this tour: Land of Buddha Tours India.

Khajuraho Group of Monuments (1986)

The much publicized erotic sculptures of Khajuraho constitute a small niche. The vast temple complex hardly has a member of Hindu pantheon unrepresented. There were 85 temples around the Sibsagar Lake, out of which 22 are in reasonable state of repair. Khajuraho is the magnum opus of Rajput Chandela kings who flourished between 9th and 13th century.Khajuraho Temples

Related this tour: Golden Triangle with Varanasi.

Champaner-Pavagarh (2004)

Champaner-Pavagarh, 50 km from Vadodra, is an awe inspiring complex where Hindu and Muslim architectures jostle. The Pavagarh hill was the site of famous Rajput fortress built by Solanki kings of Gujarat, followed by Khichi Chauhans.

Elephanta Caves (1987)

The island locally called Gharapuri got its name Elephanta from Portuguese colonizers. It has a huge rock cut complex adorned with beautiful stone steles, sculptures and temple of Lord Shiva. A group shrines, courtyard, halls and porticos maintain amazing symmetry, hewn from stones.

Elephanta Caves

Ajanta Caves. (1983)

Built as a Buddhist monastic complex dating back to 2nd century BC, the Ajanta caves are most renowned for their pseudo-frescos and relief sculptures. Jataka Tales, or legends from Buddha’s many lives, constitutes the principle theme of the Ajanta murals.

Ajanta Caves

Ellora Caves (1987)

One of the largest rock- hewn temple complexes in the world, the Ellora Caves mark the apogee of Indian rock cut architecture. The 34 ‘caves’ of this groovy complex were carved out between 5th and 1 2th centuries. The sequence has 12 Buddhist, 17 Hindu, and five Jam caves. The Buddhist Caves are spacious multi-storied monasteries adorned with images of Buddha. The Jam caves, although smaller in size, display most intricate workmanship.Ellora Caves

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (2004)

Formerly called Victoria Terminus or Bombay VT this grand British-era railway terminus is one the busiest in India. It also houses the headquarters of Central Railways. It is arguably the most photographed monument in India after Taj Mahal. It was renamed as Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in 1996. The illuminated facade of VT adds stunning sheen to nocturnal Mumbai, against the backdrop of Arabian Sea.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminu

Related this tour : City tour of Mumbai.

Group of Monuments at Hampi (1987)


Hampi ruins are the ‘remains of the day’ when the ‘never to be forgotten Hindu empire’ Vijaynagar succumbed to the Bahmani coalition on January 23, 1 565 at the battle of Talikot. Vijaynagara, beside Tungabhadra river, a tributary of River Krishna, and described by various European and Arab travelers has attained a legendary status in public memory.

Great Living Chola Temples (1987)

Cholas, the mighty empire builders, also erected some magnificent temples in Tamil Nadu between 10th and 12th century. On UNESCO world heritage list is Brihadeeshvara Temple at Thanjavur, constructed by feisty warrior Rajaraja Chola I, whose soul found peace at the feet of Lord Shiva. The other Brihadeeshvara Temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram, was the work of his illustrious son Rajendra Chola I. The Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram, named after the white elephant of Lord Indra, was built by Rajaraja
Chola II in 12th century.

Churches and Convents of Goa


The Churches and Convents of Goa, built in 16th and 17th century, include earliest specimen of European architecture in India. The Church of St. Cajetan is modeled upon the original design of Rome’s St. Peter’s. Also featuring in the group are St. Francis of Assisi Church, Chapel of St. Catherine, Church of Lady of Rosary; Church of St. Augustine. The Basilica of Born Jesus is one of the grandest churches in Asia.

Churches Goa

Related this tour: City tour of Goa.

Mahabalipuram Temple Complex (1984)

Mahabalipuram temple complex is an alfresco museum of religious architecture and sculpting. The Pallava kings of Kanchi, who held sway in the Tamil country between 3rd and 9th centuries, were renowned patrons of art, architecture, music and scholarship. Mahabalipuram, their second capital, became the setting for grand theme based architecture and sculpting.Mahabalipuram Temple

Related this tour: South India Tours.

Monuments’ Complex at Pattadakal (1987)

An 8th century-wonder of consecrated architecture, Pattakadal temple complex in Karnataka was primarily a work of Chalukya kings. Chalukyas were renowned Shaivites. There are around eight major temples, including one Jam shrine. The most iconic of them viz. Virukpaksha Temple was built by Queen Lokamahadevi in 745 as an act of thanksgiving to Lord Shiva.

Mahabodhi Temple Complex, Bodh Gaya (2002)


Gautam Buddha (566-486 B.C.), famously attained his enlightenment below a Bo tree near today’s Gaya (Bihar) in 526 B.C. The place, Bodh Gaya, became an international pilgrim spot with propagation of Buddhism in Asia. The place attracted renewed interest in British period with reclaiming of ruins.

Mahabodhi Temple Gaya

Related this tour: Golden Triangle with Buddhist Circuit.

Sun Temple, Konark (1984)

Konark, a small coastal town in Orissa, is best known for its 13th century architectural wonder, the sun temple. This black granite temple was commissioned by King Narasimhadeva I (1236-1264). The temple was conceived as an exquisite 12-wheeled chariot of Sun god, being pulled by seven horses.

Related this tour :  Temple Tour India.

Mountain Railways of India (1999)

When British developed hill stations in India, they were faced with the challenge to connect them meaningfully with the plains. This was achieved through construction of mountain railways that were an engineering miracle. The UN has acknowledged the mountain railways of India viz. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Kalka-Shimla Railways and Nilgiri Mountain Railway as world heritage property.

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Indian Art Forms on UNESCO’s heritage list

Posted on November 2, 2011 by admin
The UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) inscribes three Indian performing-art forms, the Mudiyettu, a ritual art form of Kerala; the Chhau dance, a traditional mask dance from Eastern India; and the Kalbelia folk songs and dances of Rajasthan in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This annual list, unlike the World Heritage list that focuses on monuments and natural sites, spotlights performing art forms of outstanding value and are vulnerable due to lack of support.Traditional Mask Dance Festival of India
The Mudiyettu, the ritual dance drama which is more than 250 years old is annually performed after the harvest of summer crops in Kerala. This art form involves elaborate drawings on floors, masks made of areca nut fronds and playing of drums. Mudiyettu, once famous and well patronised, is now performed only by three traditional families of regular performers.
Chhau dance is a genre of Indian tribal martial dance, which is popular in the Indian states of West Bengal, Jharkhand and Orissa. Chhau Dance Festival Tour
Songs and dances are an expression of the Kalbelia community’s traditional way of life. Once professional snake handlers, Kalbelia songs disseminate mythological knowledge through stories, while special traditional dances are performed during Holi, the festival of colours. The songs also demonstrate the poetic acumen of the Kalbelia, who are reputed to compose lyrics spontaneously and improvise songs during performances. They demonstrate their community’s attempt to revitalize its cultural heritage and adapt it to changing socioeconomic conditions.
The Kalbelia Community of snake charmers are also impacted and are in need of support. The inscription of Kalbelia folk songs and dances on the Representative List could help to raise awareness about the importance of safeguarding intangible cultural heritage by offering an example of a marginalized community’s adaptability and creativity;
Every year various governments forward nominations for inscribing in the Representative List. In addition, separate nominations are also sent for inscribing in the Urgent Safeguarding List. This list focuses on art forms “whose continuous recreation and transmission” are threatened and are in need of immediate support.
This year, the UNESCO received 54 nominations for the Representative List. The subsidiary body, after reviewing them advised seven nominations to be withdrawn, rejected one and recommended the rest for the inscription. Six nominations were received for the Urgent Safeguarding List of which two were withdrawn, one was rejected and three were recommended for inscription. All the three nominations proposed by India for the Representative List were recommended.
The Fifth Session of the UNESCO Inter-governmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage accepted this recommendation. So far, about eight Indian heritage elements, including these three, have been inscribed in the representative list.
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Madhya Pradesh: In the heart of India

Posted on October 3, 2011 by admin

Located and branded as the Heart of India, Madhya Pradesh is perhaps the most endowed state. Neolithic rock shelters in Bhimbetka, eroticism captured in the stones of Khajuraho, over a millennium of Buddhist heritage starting from 300 BC in the remains at Sanchi, its Tiger habitat, MP is a landscape carved by God’s own hands.

In terms of variety, Madhya Pradesh offers more than the most. Its cities, national parks, World Heritage Sites, forts & palaces, pilgrimage sites, history, cultural heritage, flora & fauna, the ravines of Chambal and other such tourist attractions make Madhya Pradesh the undisputed number one destination in India to visit.

World Heritage

The Heart of India is truly incredible!  The erotica of Khajuraho temples, Capturing human passion in stone, are magnification in form and are richly carved. They have attracted tourists from the world over. More than 1,000 years old, these 22 surviving temples of the original 85 are world heritage Sites. Sanchi, another World Heritage Site, located dose to the capital Bhopal is known for its Stupas, monasteries, temples and pillars dating from the 3rd century BC to the 12th century AD.Khajuraho Temple
Khajuraho Temple

Wildlife & Nature
Wildlife & Eco Tourism is the next big thing. With close to 1,00,000 sq km of forest dotted with National Parks, Sanctuaries and ‘Tigers, the state has attracted both the international and domestic tourists alike. Today Eco Tourism offers a wide array of natural wealth and eco product like nature trails, safaris, adventure sports, camping, bird watching and more.National Park In Bandhavgarh
Bandhavgarh National Park
Festivals
The tribal festivals of Jhabua are marked by carefree revelry, exotic entertainment like cockfighting and uninhibited dancing. The Khajuraho festival of dance and music in February is a unique seven-day extravaganza. The festival draws the best classical dancers in the country every year, who perform against the
spectacular backdrop of the floodlit temples . The tomb of Tansen, one of the nine jewels of the great Mughal king Akbar, is part of Gwalior’s living cultural heritage. It is the venue of annual Indian classical festival held in November-December.
The old world charm and the modern day hustle-bustle co-existing in perfect harmony in the cities of Bhopal. Gwalior and Indore is a touristic delight. Their bazaars and malls highlight the contrasts that exist side by side in these cities. The rich arts and crafts found here exhibit extraordinary and painstaking craftsmanship and evoke a desire to visit the land that is coloured with myriad shades of tourist delight.
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Yoga and Meditation

Posted on September 5, 2011 by admin
The word Yoga evokes different Images to the mind of different people. For Some, it is a set of mystical rituals and mantra chanting practiced by half- naked monks and ascetics in Himalayan caves. One often hears of miraculous feats performed by yogis, like remaining underground for days together and so on. Yoga seems to endow them with superhuman powers. Others think yoga to be a battery of body-twisting ‘asanas’ and braeathing exercises that help in shedding flab and curing various bodily ailments. Advertisements proclaiming “reduce weight through yoga (No side effect)” are seen frequently.
Ayurveda and Yoga Tours
As a young person, you may have sometimes wondered about yoga, and concluded that it is not for you. If you are neither obese, nor do you want to say goodbye to the world and pack off for the mountains, how possibly could yoga be of any use to you? How can a student, a young person, benefit from something that seems to be a thing of the past something irrelevant to a modern, fast-paced life?
Tours Yoga
To being with, both the impression about yoga – that it is a set of religious, mystical rituals, or that it is  physical culture are absurd. Yoga is not fitness training, nor is it a path to achieve superhuman power. Question, then is what is yoga ?
Great yoga master of the past like Patanjali, Vasistha, and above all, Lord Krishna have defined Yoga. These definitions look different, but convey the same meaning. In his Yogasutra, an immortal treatise on the subject, Patanjali defines yoga as “Yoga is the annihilation of the tendencies of mind”.
Wellness and Yoga Tours
“Yoga is the technique of calming down the mind”
In Shrimadbhagvat Gita, the world yoga has been use at a number of places to clarity the many facets of this science.
Etymologically, the root of the word Yoga in Sanskrit is Yuj, Which means to join. Literal meaning, therefore, of Yoga is union. Union of what, you may ask. To join together, there must be at least two objects or entities. One meaning of this is the union of Jeevatman (Individual Self) with Paramatman (supreme Self). Another meaning of this joining is the union of the two energy channels in human body: Ida and Pingala. According to yogic litratue, every human being possesses three bodies: physical, astral and causal. The two energy channels referred to above are not necessarily present in the physical body. They only have their seats there but belong to the astral body.
The popular notions about Yoga among people at large are incorrect because they are incomplete. Physical exercise, Asanas, Pranaya, meditation etc are only components of Yoga. None of them is Yoga in its entirety. The integrated Yogic system is made up of eight parts: Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayam, Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi. This system of Yoga is also known as Ashtanga Yoga (‘eight limbed Yoga). There are several paths for achieving the union of Individual self and supreme self. But the integrated system of Yoga. which was propounded by patanjali, is the most exhaustive and thorough of all. It is, therefore, also Called raja yoga, or ‘King among Yogas’. Some of the other yogic system are Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Nada Yoga, Laya Yoga and so on.  The purpose of all these systems is the same. The choice of a particular path depends on the mental make-up and capabilities of  individual  sadhaka while the final goal of all yogas remains identical.
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