Almora: Capital of Hills

According to Hindu faith trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh is creating, looking after and destroying the universe. To perform the task these Gods have to be born on the earth as one or other incarnation. In India one can find numerous places and temples dedicated to the incarnations of the God and named accordingly. One such region is Kumaun dedicated to Kurmaavtar [Tortoise incarnation of God Vishu], though the deity of the region is Nanda Devi. Rulers of the area were the Kayuri and Chand dynasty. History indicates that Almora city was founded by the King Kalyan Chand in the 1560. In the words of our father of Nation Mahatma Gandhi, He was amazed why the people were going to Europe for the search of health, when a place like Almora with health supporting climate and most beautiful nature is there in India.

The city is constructed on the horse saddle shaped rock between the rivers Kosi and Suyal. If you wish to have panoramic view of peaks of Himalayan range covered with white [Snow] Almora is most suitable place. The rich fauna and flora of the adjoining area in addition to climate and scenic wonders are supporting the adverb Capital of Hills used for the city.

During the visit to tourist spots of north India, one district which leaves footprints in the memory of the tourist for its rich picturesque natural beauty, magnificent wild life, rich cultural heritage and climate to support health is Almora presently part of Uttranchal State.

There is no direct Air or Train leading to Almora. If you wish to travel by air you can go up to Pantnagar famous for the Agriculture University and from there by a road journey of about 130 km. will take you to this place. You will have to detrain at Kothgodam railway station, situated at a distance of about 90 km. from the Almora; again to reach the city you have travel by road. This journey of about 3 hours, on the roads like the snake walk with the most beautiful scenic nature and healthy climate not only gives your eye the matchless experience but will also touch your soul.Kumaun Mandal Holiday Home just about 2km. from the bus stand is an ideal and affordable place to stay at Almora.

Local Tourist spots
Nanda Devi Temple
Collectorate
Bright End Corner
Simtola
Kalimath
Kaser Devi Temple
Cranks Ridge
Upreti Khola
Chitai

There are many places in the vicinity of Almora city, which can be considered as the must visit places such as

Katarmal: A place famous for the 800 years old Temple of God Sun is about 17km. away from the city.

Jogeshwar: A fair held during the monsoons every year is a star attraction for the people. There are about 120 temples. Mahabharata also have some references for the place.

Ranikhet: famous as the regimental centre of the Kumaun regiment of Indian Army is just 50 km. away from the city. Presence of Pine and Oak trees, filling the sky of Ranikhet with a healthy climate and balmy breeze makes it pollution free.

Kausani: Birth place of famous poet Sumitranandan Pant is just 52 km. away. The place is famous for the close view of Himalayan peaks and greenery.

Binsar: At the distance of just 30 km and under the Wild life sanctuary where one can see Panther and Barking Deer. The place is circled by forest and temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Mount Abu: Hill Station in Desert land

The nature that has filled the land of Rajputs with sandy desert has also made arrangement for the rescue of Rjasthanis form hot summer by providing this place of high religious values. The only cool hilly destination in the sandy desert land of Rajasthan is the Mount Abu.

Mount Abu a place known to world as the summer resort of Chouhan Dynasty and headquarter of the residents related with Rajputana during the British rule over India, is so hugely covered with lush green shrubs and forests, that this southern end of Aravali range of mountains is many time referred as green oasis of desert that covers almost all the Rajasthan. The presence of flowery shrubs makes the place most scenic.

In the Vedic era the city was known as Mount Arbuda, the story behind this goes like Once Mooni Vashishta’s cow Nandani was trapped in hills with narrow opening and for rescue prayed to lord Shiva, who in turn ask Goddess Saraswati [Goddess of Knowledge]. Mooni Vashishta wishes to avoid such incidents in future so he asked to youngest son Himalaya for a permanent solution who in turn with the help of Arbuda- the mighty snake covered the entire gorge of the mountain. Present name Mount Abu is originated from this name. It also faith that all the 33carores God and Goddesses of Hindus have visited this mountain which is unique and adds to the importance of the place. Yet another page from the history of cities states that near the cow head natural spring Mooni Vashishta performed a Yagya and generated Agnicula to protect humanity from the attacks of evil forces.

Mount Abu is not just a hill station but is a place of winds of high velocity and presence of wired rocks produce most staining music. Lord Mahaveera – 24th tirthankar of Jainism also visited the city which presently become a pilgrimage due to presence of Delwara Jain Temples. The city is connected with world by Air [Nearest Airport Udaipur], train [nearest railway station Mount Abu Road about 20 km. away] and by bus.

Places of Tourist Attraction

Delwara Jain Temples are the star tourist attraction of the city. There are two temples dedicated to Adinath [First tirthankar] and Neminath [22nd tirthankar] respectively and named as Vimal Vasahi [Built in 1031] and Tejpal Temple [built in 1231]. These temples were constructed by the ministers of Gujrat rulers, Vimal vasahi by Vimal and Tejpal Temple by Tejpal brothers Tejpal and Vastupal. The temples are the true illustration of genius architect of that era. Craving of marble stones to such a great efficiency that at some places the stone become transparent makes the tourist mesmerized and visitor remains spell bound while looking at the lotus flower hanging from the center of dome.

Museum and Art Gallery This is another prominent tourist spot of the city. Here you will find various types of ornaments special earrings and the Garments used by the native people. Series of miniature paintings based on the rag raginis is indicating the ancient art. Another attraction is the craved statutes of Devdasis from the era of 6th Century A.D. to 12th Century A.D. Among the almost 400 sculptures available here most notable are VishKanya, Surya, Shiva, the chanvar vahini and laxmi.

Like the most of hill stations Abu is also famous for the scenic view of Sun set and there is an especial place View point for this which is just 1 km. from the city heart and one can fell the Royal life by going there on riding horse.

Gomukh Temple, Aadhar Devi Temple, Honeymoon point, Shri Raghunathji Temple and Nakki Lake are some other places worth to watch. Headquarter of World famous religious Prajapati Brahamkumari is also situated here.

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Ajmer: City of Prayer Fulfillment

If you are with a desire of glancing at the religious integrity and the true secular face of India, No place will even think of, to compete with Ajmer in this aspect. During the Urs [Annually from First to sixth day of Islamic month of Rajab] of Hazarat Khawaja Muinuddin Chisti, not only Muslims but people from all religions can be seen here busy in praying for their well being. For the Muslims Dargah here is next to Macca Madina, Who is unable to go there for Haz, is visiting this place as their pilgrimage. Ajmer is also important religious place of Hindus, as tirthraj Pushkar is just 11 km. away from the city. During the month of Kartik [October – November] people are visiting the place to have a bath at Pushkar lake. City is also famous for the Mayo College [founded in 1870] one of the oldest colleges in India. Maharaja of Alwar was among the first students of college.

City with present population of just over five lakhs was established by the Raja Ajay Pal of Chouhan Dynasty some time in the seventh century. In the 1193 A.D. city went under the Muslim rulers, when Prithaviraj Chouhan was defeated by the Mohmad Ghauri. After the Independence, when people of Sindhi community were forced to migrate to India, many of them preferred this city as their residential place, hence a considerable number of Sindhi people are making this city among the few cities of India with a dense population of Sindhis. Major spoken languages of city are Rajasthani, Hindi, Sindhi, Urdu and English.

Pushkar Fair and lake

Beside the annual urs of Khwaja Sahib, Ajmer city is also famous for Pushkar Mella. It is also an annual celebration and star attraction is the race of camel – cart. This is arranged on the Full Moon day of Hindu month Kartik. Pushkar Lake is with about 52 Ghats. According to purans Lord Vishnu, in the form of boar has visited this lake. Another episode says that Brahma with Lord Mahadev and Lord Vishnu has taken bath here for performing Yagya. One Ghat is also named as Gandhi Ghat in the memory of Mahatma Gandhi. It is common faith that water of this lake is capable of providing salivation. This is a common custom there, people on pilgrimage are floating lighted candle on the plates made from the leaves in the east direction.

Dargah and Urs

Khawaja Muin-ud-ddin Chisti came here from the Persia and was sufi saint. He was so helpful to poor that was named as Garib Nawaz. Due to his “living holy spirit” city is also called as Ajmer Sharif. It is common saying here
KHAWAJA KE DAR SE NA KOI KHALI HATH LOTA
AAYA JO BHI YAHAN PURIKAR MURADEN LOTA

Main attraction of the Dargah is the tomb of Khawa Saheb. Among the two buland darwaja, the one which is on north side was build by the Hyderabad Deccan Nizam Usman Ali Khan [1915] where as other by the Mandoo Sultan Ghyasudin Khilji. There are two huge Naggara, it is said that King Akbar was used to visit here annually and before going to Bengal prayed for the victory, after conquering Bengal he gifted these Naggaras.

During the urs , devotees offer Chadar, Ghilap and Neema at the Majar of Darvesh. It is fact, those singers who get chance to sing Kawali during this celebration are considered lucky and blessed one. Writers are making there most possible efforts for giving their best creation for the same.

Other Places to Visit

Shahjhan’s Mosque
Adhai-din-ka-jhonpra
Taragarh Fort
Mayo College
Man Mahal

The most suitable time for visiting Ajmer is from October to March. The Nearest Air port is Jaipur; Trains from almost all major cities are available for the city. While your visit to city do remember to taste the faous Ajmeri Chat and Khadi Kachori.

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Alwar: Historic City with Tiger Reserve

Rajasthan the land of forts and desert is also famous for acts of bravery by the Rajput rulers. A city that is closely related with famous Maharaja Pratap Singh and was ruled by Muslims from 13th to 18th century, situated in the hills of famous Aravali moutain Range with rich forests and palaces is the Alwar. The lake surrounded city with a population of about 2 to 2.5 lakhs, is almost at equal distance from National capital [Delhi about 170 km] and state capital [Jaipur 150 km.] and is famous for the Sariska [Tiger Reserve] wild life sanctuary. Traditionally Rajasthan is hot during the summers hence the most suitable time to visit is from mid of September to Mid of March.

In the page of the history city is mentioned as the land of the people who were not with an attitude of liking the interference of external forces in their life style and dare to protest against the encroachment. Sultan Bulban [1267 -1287 A.D.] brought the area under the Muslim rule but it was bravery Kuchhwaha Rajput Maharaja Pratapsingh, who belongs to same group of families of the Jaipur rulers, made this area free from the Mughal regime and ruled with his own Kingly Status.

Among the major tourist attractions of the city some most prominent places are as follows
1] The Bala Fort
2] The City Palace
3] Government Museum
4] Sagar
5] Sariska
6] Vijay Mandir Palace

The Bala Fort: It gives you the bird’s eye vision of the city as being at the height of more than 300 mts. This fort was constructed before the establishment of Mugal Kingdom in the India. Internal carpet area of the fort can be measured as about 5km.expansion in the direction from North to south and about 1.6 km. in the direction from east to west. With the existence of 8 huge towers fort has many gates.

The City Palace: The construction is an illustration of 18th century’s Rajput and Mugal Architect. Presently used as the Museum.

Government Museum : This will take you in the era of almost 200 years back A rich and nice collection of Indian armory is on the show for you. You can also see here “Mahabharat” in paintings prepared by artists from the Alwar School. Many manuscripts in various language, Such as Persian, Arabic, Urdu and Sanskrit, including Biography of Mugal King Babar are available here.

Sagar: the back yard area of City Palace, A piece of land with lush green flora and artificial lake constructed by Maharaja Vinay Singh in 1815. Moosi Maharaj’s Chhatari, with the roof and arches of Bengali style makes the place ideal rest place for the hot summer noons.

Vijay Mandir Palace : The Palace was constructed by Maharaja Jai Singh in 1918. During the Ramnavami place attracts thousands of visitors for the Seeta Ram Temple situated in the premises.

Sarsika: During the 50’s in India Project Tiger was started and in the 1955 area of about 770 sq.km. From Arvali range has been chosen for the wild life sanctuary. Though the whole Aravali range is worth to watch from the lenses of camera but this valley is the most pictorial part of it. Distance of just 37 km. from the city makes the place assessable. You can see here not only the Tigers but also Nilgai, Sambhar, Chetal, and four horned antelope.

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Skeleton Lake: Mysterious Roopkund

Himalaya the place of Hindu Gods and Goddess is also full of mysteries and is the most beautiful place on the earth. In my childhood I have heard that during the Pralay [Black day, the day of elopement of earth for the start of new era of human civilization] whole earth goes under water baring about 1k.m. circumference area at Himalaya and human population remains there starts the life once again as the forefathers of new human civilization, after several years of being under water, when earth slowly start coming out.

A remote place of the Himalayan mountain range Roopkund came in the news around 1942, when a park ranger Madhwal discovered some skeletons under the layers of the ice. Presently the place comes in the Chamoli district of recently constructed state Uttranchal. Being situated in the lap of Tirshul Roopkund [altitude of 5029 mts] is also an attraction for the trekkers. Roopkund is on the way of Nanda Jat route to Homkund, Here earth surface remains covered by the ice all most whole year only in summer for few weeks, when ice melts it is possible to have a look of earth. During the ice melting period of 1942 one park ranger saw some skeletons floating in a hardly two meters deep lake, due to this very less depth lake is also known as the Shallow lake. The mystery of whose skeleton are these is unsolved hence people also call the lake as the Mystery lake. The strength thing is that some skeletons are with the flesh.

In 1960, some samples of skeletons were tested for the carbon dating and results showed that the skeletons are of the people from between 12th and 15th century. Radio carbon dating pinpointed the period to 9th century. Initially it was thought that the skeletons are of the Chinese people but DNA test at Hyderabad based centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology [CCMB] have not only proved the Indian origin of the skeletons but also concluded the death time to 8th century. According to officials of CCMB these enormously tall people were most probably belongs to same family and having an extra bone in head. All the skeleton samples indicates present of two groups and were died under the effect of Hail storm of hails of size equivalent to cricket ball.

Local Version about the origin of Skeletons

According to local people all most 600 years back there was a king Raja Jasdal of the Kanauj area, He was married with Gadwal princess Balpa. Balpa was religious sister of Goddess Nanda Devi. King Jasdal decided to go for pilgrimage, pregnant queen Balpa was also with him and at this place has given birth to a babe. Goddess Nanda Devi thought that they have violated the sacredness of the place, she brought the ice storm and all were fall pray of death by this. The skeletons founds belongs to that group. This story might be the reason behind the faith that if a lady goes for the journey of Roopkund, natural calamity bound to occur.

Another story says that these skeletons are of the General Zorawar Singh and his army, who last their lives in the storms of Himalaya, on their way back to Kashmir from the Tibet war. Presence of horse skeleton supports this but presence of woman skeleton goes against it and also the history which indicates period of Zorawar Singh around 1830, where as the skeletons are recognized as about 600 years old.

In the opinion of some people these skeletons are of the Nar Bali [Offering living human] to Goddess Nanda devi. In the old days it was tradition that an elder person was selected as Nar Bali offering and the cremation of the person done, while the person was alive. Symbolically hairs and nails were cut down and present as the offering to Goddess. It was faith the person dies soon after all this and the skeletons found are of those persons.

A few people say that skeletons are the some of the traveler groups belonging to some royal family were on the excursion of Himalaya with the local group of local guides. The lost their way and adverse situations forced them to lose their lives. Presence two groups of skeletons go in favor of this story.

There is also a story about the formation of shallow lake at Roopkund. Once Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati was walking in Himalaya. All of sudden Parvati expressed her desire of seeing own face to Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva has made a small lake with the help of Tirshul and in the water of that Parvati saw her face. The place was Roopkund and lake was one which is presently also known as the Skeleton Lake.

The complete mystery is still to be unfolded. The questions related to the origin and cause of death needs more satisfying answers. Geographical location of Roopkund and adverse climatic conditions also making it difficult for research scholars to go for the search of truth but one thing is sure one day we will be with the answer of Roopkund Mystery.





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Alibag: Historic beautiful Kokanz beaches

Alibag, a destination of beautiful, marvelous sandy and slightly unexplored beaches. I have not visited Miami beach but those who enjoyed both the places are of the opinion, beaches of this Kokanz city are, if not thousand times surely hundred times better and worth place to visit.

Alibag a village as per the vision of Americans and a small town as per our self is part of Raigad district from the western coastal area of India. There are some historic evidences that the city was established, by Sarkhel Kanhoji Angre, Naval chief of the Maratha King Shivaji, some time in the 17th Century. Forget about the history that is not going with you but surely the long queues of shadows of coconut tress will remain in your memory for the years and years.

Alibag is just about 130 km. away from the Mumbai and about 120 km. away from the Pune and almost 170 km. from Kolhapur; hence a drive of say three hours is more than sufficient to reach here. Some of the most prominent beaches those are ready to provide you the feeling of removal of physical fatigue and senses of mental comfort in the lap of natural beauty are:

Nagaon Beach: A minor distance of about 10 km. and about 30 minute traveling is sufficient to reach this calm and quite beach which is famous as Satad beach. Rishi kapoor and Dimple Kapadia were without the words for the praise of the place, when they shooted song “Sagar Kinare Dil Ye pukare” for the Hindi movie Sagar.

Mandwa Beach: The beach is with jetty and traffic up to Gateway of India goes on whole day. If you love to see travel you can also take launch for this place. “L” shaped jetty is enriched with natural beauty.The beach and village was picturised in the Bib B starer Hindi Film "Agani Path" to best of its beauty and glory.

Kihim Beach: A village with the residences of employees of RCF and with soft and golden sand beach. The spot is among the favorite places of Dr. Salim Ali.

Akshi Beach: This is usually not a crowded place though full of fishers. The deep shadows of betel nut and coconut tress are sufficient to present houses as the most attractive portrait created by the human with the participation of nature.

If you are with the spare time you can also visit Kashid beach, about 30 – 35 km. from the heart of town. Other places where you can go are Colba fort [Constrcuted by Maratha King Shivaji in 1680], Birla temple and Kankeshwar. If you are on a long business tour to Mumbai this is the most ideal place for your weekend outing. There are MTDC resort and RCF rest – house available for the tourists but if you wish to have a real and touchy feel of local life style it is advisable to prefer private bungalow or rented house for your stay here.

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Kokan Journey: Amboli Forest Hill Station

Kokan is the highly blessed area of the Maharashtra; Mother Nature has showed her mercy on this area in abundance. The Kokan area is locally famous for rich forests and beautiful sea shores. At the level of National and international tourism this area can be said as the unexplored because at these levels when Kokan is pronounce it means only the Goa but in fact this is a separate tertiary which slowly and gradually attracting tourist especially after the start of Kokan railways. Kolhapur – the city of the Goddess Mahalaxmi [ http://www.kolhapurworld.com/ ] is at the distance of less than 200 km. from the most of the tourist attractions of Kokan. If you are interested to a have a drive on hilly roads, Kolhapur is most suitable place for the base camp of your Kokan tourism.

Amboli the gateway to Goa planes, is in fact is a spot where western ghat is ending. This the last Hill resort on the sahyadiri range as after this, boundary of Goa state starts. A height of 690mts from the sea level makes this cool place an idol destination for spending a few days with family in isolation from the rest of the world and in the lap of Mother Nature.

Here at Amboli you can go to Nagatta falls, Narayan Gad or Mahadev Gad for the family picnic. Just 10 km. away are situated Bauxite mines, a visit there will be make your excursion more colorful and memorable. There are many views points to see the lush green and coastal fields of Kokan. During the summer cool breeze makes Amboli a real enjoyable place. One thing is sure, during the months of June and July the hide and seeks game of fog, cloud and rain will not allow you to keep your cloths in dry situation. Most suitable time for visiting the Amboli is from the end of September. During the rainy season wild life study tours can be arranged. If you are in search of a quite, calm and a place with rich natural beauty than Amboli is most perfect choice. Try to include Sunday in your stay here, as on this day every week almost 5,000 people from the Kolhapur and Goa are visiting Amboli as one day family picnic. This will add a guanine feel of local and surrounding culture and traditions to your knowledge base.

Red Gilled fish, Prawns and special black Mutton curry [Kale masale chi mutton curry, vade sagoti] are the famous non vegetarian cuisines where as the taste of vegetarian malavani thali and desert serve after, prepared from the coconut will remain alive on your tongue for many years to come.


The nearest Airports are Belgaum and Kolhapur. Sawantwadi a station on Kokan railways is about at the distance of 30 km. There is a resort managed by MTDC [Maharashtra tourism Development Corporation] for which booking can be made from Mumbai, Pune and Kolhapur [ http://www.kolhapurworld.com/ ]. There are some other Hotels and motels also to accommodate tourists.


I recognize help of my e-friend Sharad Rao Rane for this article.

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Allahabad: Famous Hindu Religious City: Home Town Of Personalities

Agani [Fire] Jal [water] and Aakash [Spaces] are three dominant words of spiritual world; the same and equivalent importance is given to rivers Ganga and Jamuna [Yamina] in the life world of Hindus. Allahabad is city where these two rivers fuse with each other [Sangam]. It is believed that another holly river Saraswati, flowing in the forms of underground currents meets with the Ganga and Yamuna forming “Tirveni “[Confluence of three rivers]. According to Hindu Faith, bath at Tirveni Sangam is capable of making Sin free.

Allahbad is among the oldest cities of the world, reference of the city can be drawn from the oldest knowledge books Vedas. In the ancient time city was pronounced as Priyagraj [Still at various references name is in the use] According to Purans, Brahama, the creator of universe, called Priyag as the “Tirth Raj” [King of religious places]. History revels that the city was constructed by rulers of Hasthinapur [A reference of city is available in the most commonly read religious books Ramayan and Mahabharat] near the Piryag and name it Kaushambi. During the Kingdom of King Harshvardhan, Chinese traveler Huien Tsang and according his writings he visited Piryag in 643 A.D. Allahabad is one among the four cities where at the interval of every twelve years Kumbh Mela are organized the other three cities are Haridwar, Ujjain and Nasik. This also elaborates the religious importance of the city.

According to recent history the city was founded by Mughal King Akbar in 1575 who named it as “Illahabad”. During the British rule Allahabad University the forth one in country [Three previous one are Calcutta, Bombay and Madras] was established on 23 September 1887 and was famous as the Oxford Of east. Allahabad is also known as the main center of Hindi. It is also the Allahabad city where for the first time voice for the separate Muslim state were heard during the Annual Meeting of All-India Muslim league in the year 1930.

Population wise Allahabad is among the top fifty cities of the country with a population around 12 lakhs. Main language of the city is the Hindi but it is not difficult to listen conversations in Urdu, Bengali, Kashmiri and Punjabi Languages. After the independence a considerable population from adjoining state Bihar had shifted to city. Awadhi and Khadi Boli, dialects are also in use here.

Places to Visit

During you visit to city besides having a bath at sangam remember to visit
1] Anand Bhavan : Residence of Nehru Family, Presently a Museum.
2] Allahabad Fort: Presently used by Army so a limited portion is open for the visitors. Akshay Vat – Immortal Banyan Tree and Ashoka Pillar are the another attraction for visiting this.
3] Allahabad Planetarium: If you have a scientific attitude this place is worth to visit and will add some thing to your knowledge.
4] Someshwar Mahadev Temple and Patalpuri Temple
5] Company Garden, Minto Park and Khusaro Bag : these three places are not just gardens but are speaking legends of various times of Indian history.

Personalities Related with Allahabad

Allahabad is the only city which is related with more than one Prime Minister of India. Several Politicians, Freedom Fighters, Educationist, Artist and scientist are born and brought up in the streets of this city. It is next to impossible to give list of all those a few prominent known to me are:
1] Nehru Family [Two Prime Ministers Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru and Smt. Indira Gandhi]
2] Lal Bahadur Shastri and Vishawnath Pratap Singh [Both Prime Ministers]
3] Some other Politicians are Madanlal Khurana, Dr. Murali Manohar Joshi and Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna [Who was defeated by Amitabh Bachan]
4] Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya [Founder of Banaras Hindu University]
5] Some other personalities related to the field of Education and literatures are: Dr.Harivanshrai Bachan [famous for “Madhushala” poetry collection], Mahadevi Varma, Firaq Gorakhpuri, Munshi Premchand [Famous for Novel “Godan”], Suryakant Tirpathi Nirala.
6] Film Actress Nargis and Ever young Super star Amitabh Bachan
7] Magician of Hocky Major Dhyan Chand and Mohd. Kaif, fielding inspiration, of the, present Cricket team.
8] Scientist like Meghnad Shah and Harish Chandra
9] Famous Flute Maestro Hari Prasad Chourasia.

Asansol: Coal Mines

India is a country, famous for a variety of flora and fauna has in its eastern part a series of coal mines. States like the West Bengal and Bihar are said to Motherland of Black Diamond Coal. In the West Bengal, if the state's largest city Kolkatta is famous for Durga Pooja, Sandesh and other bengali sweets than the second largest city Asansol is famous for coal mine fields[reserve of coal in West Bengal is more than 22 Billion tons and most of it belongs to area of Asansol] and Railways, In fact this city is the largest employment provider city for the citizens from the eastern area of India, Beside the coal mines many industries are established here some major one are Steel Authority of India, Chitranjan Locomotive works and Hindustan Cable Ltd. In the recent years the city also has become the one of main trading center of the state.

It is said that last tirthankar Mahaveer Vardhman of Jainism was fond of living in this area and presence of many temples prove the high activities of Jainism in the area. History revels that though the coal mines of the area were discovered around the 1770 but it took almost Half decade up to 1820 for the regular and proper mining. Asansol also became famous for the railway activities especially due locomotive workshops. Chitranjan locomotive workshop, first in India is situated here. After the independence Asansol became divisional headquarter of the eastern railways. Locomotive shed here is capable of accommodating more than 100 locomotive engines. The first steam locomotive Deshbandhu, produced here in 1950 was dedicated to nation by honorable President Dr. Rajendra Prasad. On the 14 November 1998 when first electric locomotive Navyug was produce here India was included in the select class of the countries with the capacity of producing electric locomotives. Chitranjan Locomotive workshop is the major contributor for the technical advancement of railways in India. As per the reports up to the economic year ended on 31 March 2006 there are 3380 electric locomotives produce here are on the run.

After the 1947 when free India planed for the multipurpose river valley projects, the first one Damodar Valley Project was started in this area. An artificial lake was constructed behind the dams Maithon and Panchet has exposed this area as the most suitable picnic spot for the lovers of natural beauty. Beside these two dams just 8 km. away from the city is situated one of most ancient Hindu Temple of Lord Shiva “ Baidyanath Dham” According to purans King of Link Mahabali Ravan has brought Jotirling from the kailash and establish here. Another tourist attraction of the area is the Simul Tala famous for flower nurseries and also as the health resort.

The city holds a very high value for the students of mining and those who wish to go deep in the life of labours this is the most suitable place for them. A considerable major portion of Amitabh's famous film Kala Pather was picturised in this area.

Anantnag: Gateway to Kashmir Valley

According to a saying if the heaven exists on earth it is here at Kashmir and this city Anantnag, situated just, 55 k.m. away, from the capital Shrinagar of this northern Indian state is said to be Gateway of this heavenly valley. If you wish to have a real feel of the natural beauty of the state it is advisable that instead of shrinagar use this city as your base camp. The area of the district is about 3984sq.km. And population is in the vicinity of 15 Lakhs with the sharing of boundaries with Shrinagar, Pulwama, Doda, Kishtwar, Kargil, Ramban, Budhal [Rajouri District] almost all the places of tourist attraction in the valley. In the west direction of the district presence of mighty Pir Panchal range of mountains increase the beauty of the district.

Anantnag is the city where you can visit at any time of the year as here every season has its own charms and offer some thing for the tourists. It is fact that the most tourist friendly time here is from the May to September but even if you can adjust with the low temperatures even below 00 C you can visit in the December and can enjoy the ice games. If you wish to see the fantastic beauty of the valley in the shadows of long Chinars, October and November months are the most suitable for that.

The nearest Air port to the city is the Shrinagar almost at the distance of just 65 km. so a road journey say of two hours will be sufficient to reach here. Nearest railway station is Jamu from where you can take taxi or bus to reach here by national highway NA-1A.

When you are here remember to taste Nun Chai – A type of tea with milk and salt and Kahawa – another type of tea without milk, ingredients used to make this are of the nature of supplying heat to body. Kashmiri Mutton Pulaav is another dish which will keep you eager to visit this place again, use of dry fruits makes this dish such delicious that even the fragrance of this is sufficient to work as catalytic power for your appetite.

Among the places of tourist attraction ruins of Martand Temple – A temple dedicated to sun is one and are situated about 10 km away from the heart of Anantnag city. There are many stories regarding the construction of this temple but the central idea suggest that the temple was constructed some where around between A.D. 300 to 500. Shrine of Hajarat Azinuddin wali is another place to visit this is on the Pahalgam Anantnag road and is situated at a hill almost 100 meters of height from the road level a view of surrounding from here will remain alive in your memories for the rest of life. Pahalagam, Khilanmarg and Golf course are some other places. If you can able to locate a local resident to guide you in your tourism it will make your travel not only more comfortable but will also help you to see some of the unexplored attractions.

Agartala: Destination for Nature Lovers

If you are believer of the fact that the most beautiful thing created by God, to fill human life with peace and pleasure is the nature, and are planning to visit a place enriched with flora and fauna with some exotic natural beauty than the most suitable place is Agartala – capital city of small Indian state Tirpura.

Tirpura it self was estabilied just about one and half century back around the 1838 by the king Maharaja Krishan Kishore Manikya and was become part of India in the year 1956. In 1972 the area was granted the statehood by the government of India. Agartala is situated on the planes of river Haora and just few miles away from the city is the Indo Bangala Border. The main spoken language of the city is Bengali. Though the temperature remains moderate between 10 and 35 through out the year but most suitable time to visit the place is from October to April.

You can reach here by National high way 44 which connects Agartala with Assam and rest of India. By air you can take flight from Delhi, Calcutta or Guwahati.Here you will find some hotels and rest houses for accommodation the rates are very much affordable ranging from Rs. 100 to Rs. 500. Activities of some terrorist groups have become the main obstacle for heavy tourist traffic to the area; otherwise the beauty of the place is sufficient to provide sense of living in the heaven.

State legislative assembly house Vijjayanta Palace was build in the year 1901 is one of major tourist attraction. The construction is based on the mixed Mughal - European style. The main building is surrounded by the gardens and artificial lakes and covering an area equal to almost 800 acres of land. The two orage colored temples Umanneshwar Temple and Jaggannath Temple are situated at the Palace ground. Just 1k.m. away from the city is the Venubhan Vihar – A temple of Buddhasim. You can also visit to Gedu Mian Mosque – a place decorated with broken crockery articles. The State Museum is yet another star tourist attraction here you will find ethnographical and archeological exhibits on display for the tourist there is no entry fees at the place. If you wish to gain knowledge of Tirpura’s tribal groups you must visit the Tribal Museum. In the old Agartala city at the temple of Fourteen Deities a special function Karchi Pooja is celebrated every year in the month of July.

Amritsar: Dream City of Sikhs: Heart of Punjab

If you are on India tours, a destination is bound to come in your traveling of the northern part of India. Every Sikh and most of the Hindus from all over the globe, are with an unexpressed desire, may it be there destiny to visit and have the opportunity of "Matha Tekana" [a special way of worship in which devotee bowed and keep the head at the door of God] at the most sacred place on the earth, the city of Gurus, The city of Hari Mandir - Golden Temple, A city called as the crown of Punjab and pronounced as Amritsar. The city name is derived from the Amrit Sarovar, a tank constructed by Guru Ramdas ji. Amrit means the nector and sarovar means the lake. Golden Temple is situated in the centre of this Amrit Sarovar.
History revels that the land used for establishment of the city was acquired by sikh Gurus on payment of Rs. 700/- and sometime around the 1570 - 1580 the construction for the city was started by Guru Ramdas Sahib ji. Guru sahib ji constructed a tank there which was bricked by Guru Arjan Dev Ji and side stairs were also constructed. This is the famous Amrit Sarovar.
A story indicating the sanctify importance and healing effect of the water, was narrated to us by our father late Dr.Premchand Manghirmalani. There was a king who had seven daughters but his most of affection and love was with the younger one. All the girls were grown up and parents were thinking about their marriage. One day King call all the seven daughters and ask about the authority that is making their life full of comforts, starting with elder one, all the six girls thanks father for making their life filled with such unmatched comforts but the answer of the youngest one was Waheguru is there to load the life of every one with comfort according to ones ability, listing this king become angry and in that anger he decide to arrange marriage of youngest daughter with a person suffering from leprosy who was even unable to walk at its own so the daughter can realize that it is the king who is making her life comfortable. The person was called in the palace and king narrated all to younger daughter but instead of acknowledging king as the comfort provider she preferred to marry with that person with word "I thanks to God for making my life full of comforts till today, and if it is my destiny that I will have all these comforts in future also my husband will brought back to health by Waheguru." As the Hindu traditions the princes left the palace with husband in a cart and decided to go in search of medicine which can heal disease of her husband. One day she came to the construction site of city Amritsar, she stopped the cart at the bank of lake and went to bring food for husband from the lungar [community kitchen]. Here the husband saw that a crow came flying and fall down in the water of lake he was surprised to see that the crow when came out of water was no more crow but was become a swan, With a lot of pains and sufferings he started crawling and succeeded to allow his body to fall in the water by the time the youngest princes was back with food in hands for the husband, when she saw the empty and disturbed cart she started crying loudly, suddenly a handsome young boy tapped her shoulder and asked to stop crying as he was her husband, she was not ready to believe that but when the boy told her all that which happens with them during the last six month after the marriage, she has to accept the boy as her husband , than both went to Guru Ramdas Sahib Ji for paying their thanks. Dear Friends the faith is still paying [I don’t know what the experts of medical science will call it], whoever with pure heart and faith come to have a dip, all the illness goes away.

Other Tourist Spots in and around
Jalianwalla Bag [Garden]
Durgian Temple [Laxmi Narayan Temple]
Ram Tirth
Wagha Border
Bird Sanctuary
Not to Forget
When you are in Amritsar, make sure to eat Chhola Bhtura a very very special and delicious Punjabi dish. You will found this available even at the various road side stalls, similarly do take lassi it will make you to forget about all the cold drinks for which you are used to take.
Woolen cloths with the embroidery work are the star attraction of shopping at Amritsar; Shawls of the city are world famous. Remember as there are no M.R.P’s hence bargaining is the key for the shopping.
Though Punjabi is the key language but Hindi, Urdu and English are also significantly used here so the language is not proving an obstacle for you.
To reach Rajasansi airport just about 11k.m. away from the city heart, you can take flights from Delhi, Where as from most of the cities you will find trains leading for the city.
So when you plan to visit India make sure to visit this city with high historic and religious value and with rich Punjabi tradition and culture the most suitable time for visit is from October to December.

TRAVEL SAFETY

Nature of human beings is can only be compared with the ocean of unsatisfaction. Since very early years of existence this feeling of not being satisfied has worked as the catalyst for the adoption of traveling in the human nature. In fact during those days human has to travel a lot even for capturing the suitable food stuffs. With the time our travel purpose and the appliances used to assist in travel have gained a very high and notable speed from bull cart to horse riding or the chariot to steam engines and to modern jets, going with velocity of sound or even more, but one aspect related with travel was area of concern than and even today is the most concerned area related with travel and this is none but the travel safety.

It might be a travel trip, business visit or any other reason but the fact remain unchanged that in comparison of our forefathers we have to and we are traveling more hence concern about the travel safety become more highlighted than ever before. Traveling can be said the workshop of learning practical knowledge about the art of conversation as only during this part of life it is assured that we have to not only to meet people first time but also to interact with them. Is it possible for us to allow our every travel to create a reasonably strong impression on our cerebral cortex? What precautions should be taken during every travel? How the traveling can be made an experience loaded with comforts?

Pleasure trips are planed; hence we are with the spare time to make all the comfort arrangements at our destination and during the journey, any how if you wish to make it memorable the rules are very simple.

· Associate your trip with some special day [say birthday or anniversary] of your life to allow this trip to remain alive in your memory for ever.
· Try to associate friends or relatives with you on this trip as their presence will boost your pleasure. Here one thing must be kept in mind that your friend or relative must have the same food habits that of you but also be mentally close to you and your family.
· While deciding the destination take advise of your family members and give it due importance, after all due to them you are planning this trip.
· Keep your luggage within your own carrying capacities as this will not only save the time that you have to otherwise loose in search of getting assistance for carrying, but also make you tension free during the journey.
· Chose the most suitable time, so that nothing will miss due to bad weather. There are so many travel agencies in every city from where you can opt the needed information. You can also take help of your friends or relatives who visited the place in the past.
· Don't forget to include things related with your and other family member's hobby. Suppose you are fond of natural scenes than a camera photograph that you took there will make the travel memory unforgettable. A sketch drawn there will keep refresh the memories for the years to come.
· If you or any other family member is going with regular medicine such as tablet for Blood pressure or diabetes, keep the medicine in your personal box. Carrying a first aid box will prove handy.
· Avoid taking precious material like the ornaments etc with you. After all you are going for a pleasure trip and not for the fashion show. Chose your cloths according to the climate of your destination.
· If you are going by your own vehicle, get it checked from the service center on earlier day. Before proceeding check the necessary documents of the vehicle, even if it is a rental one.
· Avoid exchanging your personal & business information with strangers during the journey.
· You might be with a very mixing nature and fond of making friends but during trips keeping this greed in control always proves beneficial.

If you think that I missed some thing do add as your comments.

Kamayakhya Temple Guwahati

India is said to be country of religions, saints and souls of high caliber from the regime of spirituality. In India you are intended to found Temples equal to population or even more. All these pages I wish to load with the information about the some of the most famous and significant Hindu Temples. To start with I have chosen this temple only because of being situated in the east, - the direction of sun rise and this is my sunrise for exploring India.
Guwahati, the city Pragjyotishpur, as was known in ancient time, is situated on banks of river Brahamputra, the life line of Assam and limits of the city are marked with the mountain Nelachal. People of the area used to call Red river to Brahamputra where as the Nelachal Mountain is also referred as the blue mountain, so if you wish you can say that Guwahati is the city of Red River and blue mountain. Just two km. from the city is the Kamayakhya temple, a temple of Sati [Wife of Lord Shiva - The terminator of the universe] constructed by the Kamdev and Rati [God & Godess of Love] with the statues of Bhairav and sixty four Yoginis. As Kamdev with the help of Vishawkarama [God of Builiding construction] constructed this temple hence the area becomes famous as the Kamroop and there are so many stories about the magic of Kamrrop.
The temple was under the layers of time and was brought back in the notice way back in Shak Sambat 1681, when the King Rajeshwar Sing from the Ahom dynasty invited Pandit Krishnand from the simila not only for taking care of the temple but also to teach the people about the Shaiv Mat of Hindu religion.
Some of the most famous events and worships of this temple are
Ambovasi Utsav
Dev Dhani
Ratani Shyama Pooja
Basanti Pooja
Rajeshwari Pooja
During these events and days of worship the number of visiting devotees and tourist from all over India goes up to 15- 20 thousands, which is almost ten times of average daily visitors. The natural beauty of the surroundings is making this a place, worth to visit.