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India Tourism Figures for 2006

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Beaches in India

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The information provided in the site has been taken from various sources with the main ones being the official tourism websites of India. Extravagant India! is in no way affiliated with these websites.

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Package

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The travel and tour operators registered with the Department of Tourism would be pleased to help you plan your India holiday. Please enter your requirements into the form below and we will forward it to the travel and tour operators who specialize in your area of interest.

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Official Tourism Websites

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National Capital Territory
Delhi

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Headquarters
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Port Blair
Pondicherry
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Silvassa
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Kolkata

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Eco-tourism is more than a catch phrase for nature loving travel and recreation. Eco-tourism is consecrated for preserving and sustaining the diversity of the world's natural and cultural environments. It accommodates and entertains visitors in a way that is minimally intrusive or destructive to the environment and sustains & supports the native cultures in the locations it is operating in. Responsibility of both travellers and service providers is the genuine meaning for eco-tourism.

Eco-tourism also endeavours to encourage and support the diversity of local economies for which the tourism-related income is important. With support from tourists, local services and producers can compete with larger, foreign companies and local families can support themselves. Besides all these, the revenue produced from tourism helps and encourages governments to fund conservation projects and training programs.

Saving the environment around you and preserving the natural luxuries and forest life, that's what eco-tourism is all about. Whether it's about a nature camp or organizing trekking trips towards the unspoilt and inaccessible regions, one should always keep in mind not to create any mishap or disturbance in the life cycle of nature.

Eco-tourism focuses on local cultures, wilderness adventures, volunteering, personal growth and learning new ways to live on our vulnerable planet. It is typically defined as travel to destinations where the flora, fauna, and cultural heritage are the primary attractions. Responsible Eco-tourism includes programs that minimize the adverse effects of traditional tourism on the natural environment, and enhance the cultural integrity of local people. Therefore, in addition to evaluating environmental and cultural factors, initiatives by hospitality providers to promote recycling, energy efficiency, water reuse, and the creation of economic opportunities for local communities are an integral part of Eco-tourism.

Historical, biological and cultural conservation, preservation, sustainable development etc. are some of the fields closely related to Eco-Tourism. Many professionals have been involved in formulating and developing eco-tourism policies. They come from the fields of Geographic Information Systems, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Photography, Marine Biology and Oceanography, National and State Park Management, Environmental Sciences, Women in Development, Historians and Archaeologists, etc.

Eco-tourism is considered the fastest growing market in the tourism industry, according to the World Tourism Organization with an annual growth rate of 5% worldwide and representing 6% of the world gross domestic product, 11.4% of all consumer spending - not a market to be taken lightly.

What is Eco-tourism?

Fundamentally, eco-tourism means making as little environmental impact as possible and helping to sustain the indigenous populace, thereby encouraging the preservation of wildlife and habitats when visiting a place. This is responsible form of tourism and tourism development, which encourages going back to natural products in every aspect of life. It is also the key to sustainable ecological development.

The International Eco-tourism Society defines eco-tourism as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people." This means that those who implement and participate in Eco-tourism activities should follow the following principles:
Minimize impact
Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect
Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts
Provide direct financial benefits for conservation
Provide financial benefits and empowerment for local people
Raise sensitivity to host countries' political, environmental, and social climate
Support international human rights and labour agreements
Aware of the Environment - Today the "Green Laws" of conservation are making people aware of how man and the environment can live symbiotically for more time to come and eco-tourism is the only way to maximize the economic, environmental and social benefits of tourism. Everyone is a stakeholder in the process and we clearly need to avoid our past shortcomings and negative impact that they have had.
In India too the movement is gathering momentum with more and more travel and travel related organisation's are addressing the needs of the eco-tourists and promoting eco-tourism in the country. Some basic do's and don'ts of eco-tourism are listed below:

Do's
Carry back all non-degradable litter such as empty bottles, tins, plastic bags etc. These must not litter the environment or be buried. They must be disposed in municipal dustbins only.
Observe the sanctity of holy sites, temples and local cultures.
Cut noise pollution. Do not blare aloud radios, tape recorders or other electronic entertainment equipment in nature resorts, sanctuaries and wildlife parks.
In case temporary toilets are set-up near campsites, after defecation, cover with mud or sand. Make sure that the spot is at least 30 meters away from the water source.
Respect people's privacy while taking photographs. Ask for prior permission before taking a photograph.
Don'ts

Do not take away flora and fauna in the forms of cuttings, seeds or roots. It is illegal, especially in the Himalayas. The environment is really delicate in this region and the bio-diversity of the region has to be protected at all costs.
Do not use pollutants such as detergent, in streams or springs while washing and bathing.
Do not use wood as fuel to cook food at the campsite.
Do not leave cigarettes butts or make open fires in the forests.
Do not consume aerated drinks, alcohol, drugs or any other intoxicant and throw bottles in the wild.
Do not tempt the locals, especially children by offering them foodstuff or sweets. Respect local traditions.
Polythene and plastics are non biodegradable and unhealthy for the environment and must not be used and littered.
As a traveller, you will have an impact on the environment and culture of the place you are visiting. Here are some rules of thumb to make this impact positive!
Golden Rules When You Travel

Learn about your destination before you get there. Read guidebooks, travel articles, histories,
and/or novels by local authors and pay particular attention to customs such as greetings,
appropriate dress, eating behaviours, etc. Being sensitive to these customs will increase local
acceptance of you as a tourist and enrich your trip.
Follow established guidelines. Ask your eco-tour operator, guide and/or the local authorities what their guidelines are for limiting tourism's impact on the environment and local culture. Staying on trails, packing up your trash, and remaining set distances away from wildlife are a few ways to minimize your impact in sensitive areas.
Seek out and support locally owned businesses. Support local businesses during your eco-travels to ensure maximum community and conservation benefit from your spending.
Eco-Tourism in India is still at a very nascent stage, but there are for sure conscious efforts to save the fragile Himalayan Eco System and culture and heritage of the indigenous people, which is probably the largest concentration in the world.

Holiday Camping vis a vis Hotel accommodation are gathering momentum amongst the metropolis traveller. A plethora of holiday camping options are available in the Himalayan belt, where soft adventure tourism is packaged with holiday camping to create an acceptable eco-tourism product. Resorts tucked deep inside jungles of Karnataka, House-boats of Kerala, Tree Houses at Vythiri combine to make India one of the most diverse eco-tourism destinations on the planet. Some of these are given below

Eco-Tourism Pioneers in Kerala - http://www.tourindiakerala.com
Jungle Lodges and Resorts - (Eco-Tourism Pioneers in South India) - http://www.junglelodges.com
The Camp RapidFire - Rishikesh, Uttaranchal
The Camp BodhiSatva - Rajgarh, Himachal Pradesh
The Himalayan Trout House - Tirthan, Himachal Pradesh - www.questrails.com
Info on Organic Farming & Eco-Tourism:
The Saat-tal Camp - Saat-tal, Nainital

The Camp Purple - Mukteshwar

The Camp Kyari (one of the finest models of Eco-tourism in the country) - Village Kyari, Ramnagar - www.wildrift.com
Camp Silver Sands - Rishikesh, Uttaranchal

Camp Lunagarh - Mori, Uttaranchal - www.treknraft.com
The Himalayan River Runner Camp - Rishikesh, Uttaranchal - www.hrr.com
The OAI Camp - Rishikesh, Uttaranchal - www.oai.com
The Leopard Beach Camp - Rishikesh, Uttaranchal - www.snowleopardadventures.com

These are but a selective panorama on the Indian Eco-tourism products. Some other eco-tourism spots in India are well detailed on the website http://ecoclub.com/india.html

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India is not just one of the world's oldest civilizations, it is also the world's largest democracy, and has made stupendous progress among developing nations. India's impressive variety of history and culture, from the ancient Gangetic Kingdoms to the present state, harmoniously blend to form a unique atmosphere in over a million square kilometers of scenic sights. A continent-sized country, India possesses an amazing wealth of sights and sounds, tastes and textures. From a bustling cosmopolitan city to the quiet countryside, hill station or a beach resort, India has destinations, which offer a backdrop of unmatched beauty for a business meet. You will find a fascinating amalgam of tradition & culture, beauty & nature, style & splendour, warmth, feelings & courtesies, comfort & convenience virtually everything the modern conference organiser or delegate could expect. Conferences here bring fresh meaning of the concept of combining work with pleasure.

What makes India different from any other destination is the myriad of experiences that it offers. This is one land where the ancient and the modern co-exist. India has literally everything that a visitor wants to experience and offers people a complete holiday both physical and mental. This is perhaps the reason why we have so many repeat visitors. To quote Mark Twain, "India is the cradle of the human race, the birthplace of human speech, the mother of history, the grandmother of legend and the great grandmother of tradition. Our most valuable and most instructive materials in the history of man are treasured up in India."

Amidst the countless ways that India can capture world attention as a tourist paradise, there also exists a dynamic business opportunity as a splendid venue for international conferences and conventions of no less than global standards.

India is undoubtedly a unique Conference Destination as it offers cultural and heritage sites, the exotic and mystical, excellent facilities of beach and adventure holidays which can be combined as pre and post conference tours.

Enchanting India's image as a conference destination is also projected through the chains of Hotels, providing international standards in facilities and services. Exclusive business hotels and exotic resorts, with meeting rooms of distinction, spacious convention facilities, modern business centres and a wide range of conference facilities.

India is in a continual process of upgrading its MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions) facilities. There are multiple plans on the anvil for more world-class convention centers, airports that contest with the best in the world and efforts to team the famous Indian hospitality with customisation as per a visitor's requirement. You could also offer the credit to the world class incentive programs, her ability to heal spiritually, her unmatched offering as a health destination or continually improved infrastructure facilities that over 3 million foreign tourists thronged her this year generating over US $30 billion as revenue, even as most other preferred hotspots marked a decline in their tourism graphs.

The inbound MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and events) segment is growing at 15 to 20% annually. It is estimated that the total national and international MICE meetings market all over the world is in excess of $270 billion. According to industry estimates, the Indian in-bound MICE market in first seven months in 2004 was $20 million, which is 40% more than the same period last year. India ranks 27th in the Global Meetings market.

The Infrastructure - India provides an impressive combination of accommodation and other conference support facilities to hold a successful Conference. To mention a few; Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, Centre Point, Renaissance Hotel and Convention Center in Mumbai, the BM Birla Science and Technology Centre in Jaipur, the Jaypee Hotels & International Convention Centre, Agra and the Cochin Convention Centre, Kochi etc together with facilities in the business hotels and resorts at various centers in the country.

India is going the global way and MICE is fast becoming a major part of its travel and promotional budgets. In the Indian context, incentives is at present the largest component of MICE but in a maturing market, it's only a matter of time before the entire gamut of MICE activities are undertaken by the Indian corporate world.

With the expansion in the network of airlines operation on the domestic routes, better tourist surface transport systems including the Indian Railways, new centers of information technology, many new convention centres, hotels and meeting facilities, India is now an important MICE destination. The Indian sub-continent is emerging as one of the finest Incentive destinations in the world owing to the diverse culture and geography. From the icy Himalayas to the tropical islands and from citadels in the desert to verdant jungles it is a world in itself. With the emergence of exciting new destinations every year one has unparalleled choices for the incentive operator here. The incentive programmes are a combination of old world charm and tradition interlaced with modern cosmopolitan sophistication.

Today, there are distinct travel divisions within tour companies and airlines that exclusively target MICE movement. Destinations have also begun to market MICE products to specialised agencies and the corporate world at large. The business of MICE holds enormous potential for any country. It is estimated that a person travelling to a country for a conference or convention spends anywhere four to eight times more than a normal leisure traveller. They spend more on food, more on business centre services.

India is globally connected to a network of over 50 international airlines and several domestic airlines, which provide convenient connectivity within India.

Added to this is an elaborate network of surface transportation system. There is an excellent Railway system running through the entire country. All-important cities are connected with state-of-the-art 'Shatabdi & Rajdhani' Express trains. Special trains like Palace on Wheels and Royal Orient Express, comprising of air-conditioned saloons decorated in the old Maharaja style offer guests a chance to stay on the train and visit colourful Rajasthan and fascinating Gujarat.
An excellent network of roads, national and state highways, luxury coaches, Indian & foreign-make vehicles add to the convenience and comfort of surface travel.
And, to add to this, India offers an educated manpower base where fluency in English and other official international languages can be expected.

A large number of Convention Centres are available in India with a seating capacity of up to 1700 persons. The important conference centres in the country are at New Delhi, Mumbai, Agra, Bangalore, Chennai, Cochin, Goa, Hyderabad, Jaipur & Kolkata. Some important hotel chains like the Taj Group, ITC-Welcomgroup, the Oberoi's, Meridien Hotels, Marriott Hotels etc. also have excellent conference facilities.

The exhibition industry has also gained fresh impetus with exhibition centres like Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, the Nehru Centre in Mumbai and the Chennai Trade Centre in Chennai amongst several other options.

To Top
Facilities available at all the Recommended Venues :
Convention Centres, Conference & Banquet Halls
Exhibition Centres
Auditoriums & Stadiums for hosting opening/closing ceremonies & other events
Accommodation in good 5-star and 4-star hotels
Restaurants & Bars
Recreation activities like Golf Course, Yoga & Ayurveda Centre, Discotheque, Sports like Tennis, Squash, Badminton, Health Club with Spa facilities
Easy accessibility in terms of domestic and international flights

Allahabad

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Location

How to Get There

Attraction of Allahabad

Pilgrimage Attractions

Excursions

Festivals

Location : Uttar Pradesh
Attractions : Kumbh Mela, Sangam Bath, Ardh Kumbh
Languages : Hindi, English
Allahabad, sacred city of Hinduism was formerly called 'Prayag' in commemoration of a sacrifice done by Lord Brahma. It is best known as host to the mind-boggling number of Kumbh pilgrims who visit this endearing city every 12 years. According to Hindu mythology for the 'Prakrishta Yagna' Lord Brahma chose a piece of land on the earth on the confluence of the three rivers - the Ganga, the Yamuna, and the mytical Sarswati would merge into a confluence. The land being surrounded by these 3 rivers would serve as the prime and central altar and came to be known as 'Prayag' today known as Allahabad.

The most sacred spot in Allahabad is Triveni Sangam, the confluence of three of the holiest rivers of the Hindu mythology, the holy Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati. Devout Hindus from all over India come to this sacred pilgrimage point to offer prayers and take a dip in the holy waters. It is believed that a holy dip taken at the Sangam washes away all sins.

Lord Brahma performed the Prakrista Yajna here. That is how it received its ancient name, Prayag. Allahabad is also called Tirtha-Raja, king of all holy places. It is said that Lord Rama visited Allahabad when in exile.
Location

Allahabad is one of the oldest cities in India. It is located 135 km west of Varanasi, at the confluence of India's two most important rivers-the Yamuna and Ganges. It is 585 km southeast of Delhi and 160 km south of Ayodhya. The main spiritual reason for coming here is to take bath in the Sangam, to confluence (where rivers meet), of the Yamuna, Ganges, and the underground Saraswati Rivers. It is one of the major pilgrimage sites in all of India.
How to Get There

By Air : The nearest airports are Varanasi, Kanpur and Lucknow.
By Rail : The city has direct rail connections with important cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Patna, Gwalior, Meerut, Chennai, Mumbai, Varanasi and Guwahati.
By Road : Allahabad, on National Highway 2 and 27, is connected to the rest of the country by good, motorable all-weather roads.

Unique Pilgrimage Attraction of Allahabad Kumbha-Mela

Kumbha -mela is held here every 12 years. It also takes place in three other holy places in India every 12 years-Haridwar, Ujjain and Nasik. The Kumbha-mela in Prayag (Allahabad) is considered especially auspicious. It draws about 15 million people and is the largest attended event in the world. This is a very interesting event. There are several especially auspicious bathing days. A huge temporary city is created for the millions of pilgrims that arrive for the most auspicious bathing days.

Every 6 years there is an Ardha-mela (half mela), which draws about 7 million people. Each year there is a regular Mela during the month of Magha, January-February, which draws one or two million people. The next Kumbha-mela is January, 2001. One of the most auspicious bathing days is Amavasya, the new moon day.

Kumbha-mela is like a "Yogi Convention", where yogis, sadhus(saints), holy people, and pilgrims come from all over India. Many sadhus come from various holy places, the most remote forests, and mountain caves in the Himalayas. The most famous are the Naga Babas, Siva worshipers who are completely naked. They cover their bodies only with ash and wear their hair in dreadlocks.

On the most auspicious bathing days there is a big parade, and the bathing order is very strictly observed. Not only are there especially auspicious days, but there are especially auspicious times of the day to bathe, and people are willing to die to bathe at the most auspicious time. The first to enter the water are the Naga Babas, who arrive dancing with enthusiasm. Then each different religious group enters the water in a prearranged order.

Pilgrimage Attractions

Holy Ganga

The holiest of all the rivers, Ganga or the Ganges is a perennial river, which is held in high regard by the Hindus. The Ganga River has an exalted position in the Hindu ethos. The Gangotri Glacier, a vast expanse of ice five miles by fifteen, at the foothills of the Himalayas (14000 ft) in north Uttar Pradesh is the source of Bhagirathi, which joins with Alaknanda (origins nearby), to form Ganga at the craggy, canyon-carved town of Devprayag. Sangam Bath

This is where the Ganges, Yamuna and Saraswati meet. This place is considered to be the most important holy bathing place in India. The muddy-colored Ganges in shallower and more rapid. The Yamuna is bluer and deeper. The most auspicious time to bathe in the Sangam is during Kumbha -mela. It is also especially auspicious to bathe here during the month Magh (January-February).
Hanuman Temple

Hanuman is in a reclining posture, a few feet below the ground, instead of his usual standing posture. It is said that every year the Ganges floods until it touches the sleeping Hanuman's feet and then it starts receding. This temple is located by the Sangam side of the Fort and is busy small temple open to non-Hindus. There are nice carvings on the nearby Sri Adhi Shankara Temple, which has a Sri Tirupati Balaji Deity.
Patalpuri Temple (Undying Tree)

It is located through a small doorway, in the wall of the fort, on the way to the boats that go to the Sangam. It is an underground temple with many different deities carved in stone. The Akshayavata Tree is said to never die, even when the entire world is destroyed. It is located in the underground temple. The tree is on a deep niche, above an underground hole that is said to lead to the Triveni.
Bharadwaja Ashram

This ashram is mentioned in the Ramayana. Allahabad University now occupies the place where the ashram of Bharadwaja Rishi and his 10,000 disciples is said to have been located. There are the temples of Bharadwajeswara Mahadeva, Rishi Bharadwaja, and Kali here. It is said that Lord Rama and Sita visited this place when they began their 14-year exile.
Sri Rupa Gaudiya Math

There is a Gaudiya Math temple, the Sri Rupa Gaudiya Math, on South Mallaca Street, in the Madhavapur area. This temple is by the Ganges River on the way to the Sangam from downtown. Srila Prabhupada took initiation here from Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Maharaja.

Excursions At Ramchaura-Shringverpur(40 km.), on the bank of the Ganges, there is a platform called Ram Chabutara, which marks the spot where Lord Rama is supposed to have stayed before going to the forest in exile. It is said that before Lord Rama corssed the Ganges here, the boatman washed His feet. There are also temples dedicated to Panchmukhi (five-faced) Hanuman and Shring Rishi. Lakshagriha (45km) is said to be the place where the house of lac of the Pandavas was located. A big mound marks this spot.

Festivals

Kumbh Mela - Held every 12 years.
Ardh Kumbh Mela -Held every six years
Dussehra -Dussehra time in Allahabad is an experience, unrivalled by any other in the rest of northern India. During this period, in the evening and at night, beautifully decorated tableau are taken out from different localities, depicting various scenes from Indian mythology.

Hindusim

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Hindu Destinations

Allahabad Amarnath Yatra Ayodhya Badrinath
Bhubaneswar Chidambaram Dwarka Gangotri
Haridwar Kanchipuram Kanyakumari Kedarnath
Konark Madurai Mahabalipuram Mathura
Puri Pushkar Puttaparthi Rameshwaram
Rishikesh Shirdi Sai Baba Thanjavur Tirupati
Varanasi Vrindavan Yamunotri

Hinduism Pilgrimages

The major religion of India is one of the oldest living religions in the world. Evolving in India where 83% of the population is Hindu. Hinduism in India affects family life, food, dress and architecture. The caste system as applied to Hindus determines their way of life and often even their occupations. With traveling becoming easier as each day passes Hindus have settled throughout the world and have taken their faith with them. Today Hinduism is found in many countries, the Hindu literature and philosophy have influenced people throughout the world.

Pilgrimage or Tirthatan is the oldest way of traveling from one place to other in India. From the first instance of civilization to the present day, millions of Hindus leave their home in search of salvation. The destination could be any place with a legend attached. From the high hills of Himalayas to small islands in Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal and from the fertile plains of Northern India to the Southern Peninsula, Hindu pilgrimage centers are in thousands and multiplying. We are giving you information about some of the most important out of them.

RELIGION

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Hinduism

Buddhism

Jainism

Christianity

Islam

Sikhism

Future generations will recognise value of n-deal: Sonia

2008-10-07T02:04:00.000-07:00
Nellore (Andhra Pradesh), July 17 (IANS) Stating that the India-US nuclear deal was in the nation's interest, a combative Congress chief Sonia Gandhi Thursday hit out at the Left and said the government would not compromise on national security, the nuclear programme and foreign policy.

In her first public remarks after the Left withdrew support to the ruling United Progressive Alliance (UPA), Gandhi said the future generations would recognise the value of the deal -- which last week led to the Left withdrawing support to the government.

In a strong defence of the much discussed deal and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Gandhi said: 'The nuclear agreement is in the best interest of the country. Future generations will recognise the value of this nuclear agreement and what the prime minister is doing today.'

Gandhi was addressing a crowded rally in this Andhra Pradesh town, about 500 km from the state capital Hyderabad.

Attempting to take the deal to masses, she explained how this would benefit the people: 'This (deal) would enable more nuclear power plants so that we can generate more power. Our demand for electricity is growing day by day.'

'To eliminate power cuts, we need access to nuclear technology and this is what we want to do for the people. We need more and more power for farms, farmers, schools, hospitals and for every single village and house in the country.'

'We need latest nuclear technology and fuel power from other countries. This is what we want to do for our people. And how can we be faulted for striving to provide all this for our people?' she asked.

With only five days to go before the Congress-led government faces the crucial trust vote in parliament, Gandhi also asserted that the ruling coalition 'was not compromising on our national security and foreign policy'.

'There is no question of compromising on our security interest, on our nuclear programme and our independent foreign policy,' Gandhi said.

She hit out at the Left and the opposition for their criticism on the deal and said the Congress did not need a certificate from anyone on patriotism and national interests.

'Which party gave India the independence and an independent foreign policy? It is the Congress party and no other party. It is the Congress party which launched and strengthened the nuclear programme. We need the support of other parties but we don't need a certificate from any party on our patriotism and national interests.'

She was launching the Rajiv Arogyashri, the second phase of a health insurance scheme for the poor named after her late husband Rajiv Gandhi.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's government was reduced to a minority last week after the Left parties pulled out following differences over the nuclear deal. The government faces a trust vote in parliament July 22.

Modified Kaveri engine to propel Indian Navy ships

2008-10-07T02:03:00.000-07:00
Bangalore, July 17 (ANI): The Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), Bangalore of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) which has been indigenously developing Kaveri engine for propelling the Indian Light Combat Aircraft (Tejas), has now come up with a modified marine version, as a spin off during research, to develop shaft power for propelling Indian Naval ship.

Using the core of the Kaveri engine, the scientists of GTRE have added low pressure compressor and turbine as a gas generator and designed a free power turbine to generate shaft power for the maritime application.

The Kaveri Marine Gas Turbine (KMGT) as it has been named has been transported to naval dock yard, Vishakapatnam and installed on to the marine gas turbine test bed which is an Indian Navy facility capable of testing the gas turbines up to 25 MW of shaft power through a reduction gearbox and a water brake dynamometer.

The Indian Navy has been involved in the development of the engine and participated and supporting the testing phase.

The engine has been tested to its potential of 12 MW at ISA SL 35 degree C condition which is the requirement of Indian Navy for propelling the SNF (Rajput) class of ships.

This engine has been demonstrated to the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and others including the Scientific Advisor to Defence Minister M. Natarajan, Vice Admiral B.S. Randhawa, Dr. D.Banerjee, Chief Controller of DRDO.

With this development, India will become self-reliant in the technology of gas turbines for ship propulsion.

This will put India in the elite club of Marine Gas Turbine designers for example USA, Russia, UK and Ukraine. By Kestur Vasuki (ANI)

India's first moon mission to take off on Oct. 22

2008-10-07T01:59:00.000-07:00
NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India will launch a locally built rocket for the country's first unmanned mission to the moon on Oct. 22, the head of the project said on Tuesday.

"If at all there is any delay, it will be because of the weather, otherwise I don't foresee any technical difficulties," M. Annadurai told Reuters.

The launch, earlier scheduled for April but delayed due to technical difficulties, has been given a window between Oct 20 and Oct 28 for takeoff from a southern town.

Six countries, including the United States, are directly involved in the project, which will cost an estimated 3.86 billion rupees ($80.8 million).

It aims to map a three-dimensional atlas of the moon through high-resolution remote sensing and map the surface's chemical and mineral composition.

EXTENSIVE FUNDING

Despite limited funding, India operates an extensive space programme consisting of launch vehicles, satellites and data-processing centres.

India plans to send an astronaut into space by 2014 and a manned mission to moon by 2020. As part of preparations for that, it launched four satellites on a single rocket for the first time in January 2007, including one that was brought back to earth.

India's space programme was launched as a scientific research effort, but has now begun to make money from commercial launches.

At least 16 Indian satellites currently orbit the earth, supporting telecommunications, TV broadcasting, earth observation, weather forecasting, remote education and healthcare.

India's constellation of seven earth-observation satellites is the largest of its kind in the world, but its space programme lags behind its Asian rival China, which in 2003 became only the third nation after the United States and the former Soviet Union to launch a man into space aboard its own rocket.

China celebrated the completion of the country's first spacewalk last month, hailed as a major victory by its leaders.

Archives

2008-10-06T03:03:00.000-07:00

Magazine Issue Title

  Air France      The Colours of India

  GEO      The Indian Joint Family

  Conde Nast Traveller   Oct-04   Beyond the Bungalow

  SilverKRIS      Pure Gold

  Going Places      The Flower People of Chennai

  Going Places      The Dye that Binds

  Serendib   Sept/Oct-04   From India with Love

  Serendib   Sept/Oct-04   In Search of the World's Hottest Chilli

  Serendib      Lutyen's Legacy

  Australian Way      A Passage to India

  Discovery      "Tiger, Tiger"

  Conde Nast Traveller (U.K.)   Dec-04   Rarely a dal moment

  Conde Nast Traveller (U.K.)   Dec-04   Mumbai a la Moda

  Conde Nast Traveller (U.K.)   Dec-04   Magic Show

  Financial Times   30th Oct 04   Clean,efficient,on time…Welcome to the new India

  Financial Times   28th Oct 04   India moves to ease the strain for air passengers

  Financial Times   12th Oct 04   India's Wild West… Jaisalmer

  GEO   Oct/Nov 04   Special on South India and Sri Lanka

  Travel & Leisure   Oct-04   India's Road to Riches

  The Independent U.K.   25th Sept 04   Five Best: Palace Hotels

  Conde Nast Traveller   Jan-05   The Gold List 2005, The Best Hotels In The World

  Travel & Leisure   Dec-04   Holidays 2004:Darjeeling India

  Travel & Leisure   Dec-04   Bombay Drinks

  Financial Times   11/12 Dec 04   Sensual delights in a paradise regained

  How to spend it.   Dec-04   The Long Luxurious Weekend

  Conde Nast Traveller (U.K.)   Feb-05   Spa Retreats

  Conde Nast Traveller (U.K.)   Feb-05   The World's top 25

  Ulisse      (8 page all colour story on India)

  Air France   Jan-05   Palais de Maharajas

  Conde Nast Traveller   Feb-05   All the Time in the World

  National Geographic   Feb-05   India Bonus

  National Geographic   Feb-05   Inside Bollywood

  Departures   Jan/Feb 05   Raj Revival

Articles

2008-10-06T03:01:00.002-07:00
Delhi

Orissa

Rajasthan

Uttaranchal

Incredible India interview

Mr Kant interview

Articles - Delhi

2008-10-06T03:01:00.001-07:00
Delhi: Confluence of two worlds

INDIATIMES NEWS NETWORK[ FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2005 01:34:52 PM ]

Delhi, capital city of the Federal Republic of India. It is one of India's fastest growing cities. It has sprawled over the West Bank of the river Yamuna, straddling the river. The city has two distinct parts, Old Delhi and New Delhi.

Delhi is the second most widely used entry point into the country, being on the route of most major airlines. It is well linked by rail, air and road to all parts of the country.

The remains of seven distinctive capital cities, among them Shahjahanabad and Qutub Minar, can be seen. Here, museums, art galleries and cultural centers attract the finest exhibitions.

Delhi, the commercial hub has many tourist attractions to offer. Visit vibrant shopping complex of Connaught Place, Delhi Haat for handicraft goods and delicious food bonanza. Pay a visit to Red Fort and Qutub Minar to view the excellence of Mughal architecture.

Or just drop in at Janpath, for buying a variety of cheap and best items. If you are looking for spiritual peace, visit Lotus temple, which is also famous for its marvellous architecture and heavenly beauty. Take a stroll at Rajpath. Or pay a visit to India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhawan for viewing monuments made during British era.

For more information click on the following link:
http://www.incredibleindia.org/newsite/cms_Page.asp?pageid=1112

Articles - Orissa

2008-10-06T03:00:00.001-07:00
Orissa: A treasure house

INDIATIMES NEWS NETWORK[ FRIDAY, MARCH 18, 2005 01:22:44 PM ]

Orissa is an attractive treasure house of cultures and customs, religions and traditions, languages and literature, art and architecture, scenic beauties and wildlife. Situated on the eastern coast along the Bay of Bengal, Orissa stands for its ancient glory and modern endeavour.

Orissa is endowed with nature's bounty including a 482 km stretch of coastline with virgin beaches, serpentine rivers and waterfalls and forest-clad blue hills of Eastern Ghats with rich wild life. Orissa is dotted with exquisite temples, historic monuments as well as pieces of modern engineering feat.

Ashokan pillar, presently in the State Museum, speak volumes of Orissa's past glory. The rock-cut caves of Khandagiri and Udaygiri and the inscriptions recording Kharavela's short but eventful reign during the first century B C constitute the second phase of the evolution in Orissan art.

Orissa is also known for exquisite handicrafts. Silver filigree work of Cuttack, horn work of Cuttack and Parlakhemundi and the famous applique work of Pipili deserve special mention. Pattachitra, a form of folk painting of Orissa, is a unique craft.

Brass and bell metal ware, particularly vases and candle stands, are beautiful and long lasting. The black stone bowls and plates of Nilagiri and Khiching and multi-coloured stone statues are other attractions. Silk and cotton handloom products, especially saris are simply bewitching. The Sambalpuri saris and Maniabandhi patas are matchless in their texture and designs.

Must visit places in Orissa are Balasore, Berhampur, Bhubaneswar, Chilika, Cuttack, Dhenkanal, Jeypore, Konark, Phulbani, Puri, Rourkela, Sambalpur.

For more information click on the link :
http://www.incredibleindia.org/newsite/cms_Page.asp?pageid=1298

Articles - Rajasthan

2008-10-06T02:59:00.001-07:00
Rajasthan: Live life, king size

INDIATIMES NEWS NETWORK[ TUESDAY, MARCH 15, 2005 01:11:17 PM ]

Rajasthan, literally translated as the land of kings and princes, is the ultimate confluence of history, chivalry, romance, natural beauty and colour.

Located on the northeast borders of India, Rajasthan stretches out into the Thar Desert.

It is the land of colourful people and attire, which narrate amazing legends of heroism and romance. Legends, which still resound from its equally amazing architecture standing erect, a witness to a glorious bygone era.

The once impregnable sand coloured forts, perched on rocky hills, still tell the story of the bravery of its men, the stoic sacrifice of women and the chivalrous old world manners of all.

The magic of Rajasthan is unparalleled in the world for its heritage, culture, safaris, sand dunes and lush green forests with its wildlife.

It is action-packed with outdoors too: take a safari on horses, camels, elephants or even jeeps with the Aravalis - India's oldest mountain range in the backdrop, or caress your eyes on the sloppy sand dunes, or trail a tiger or just watch birds on wetland. Or you can choose to pamper yourself in the lavish heritage properties.

Take part in the vibrant dances with swords and swirling skirts, with lamps and horses. Indulge yourself in shopping: buy exclusive craft of mirror work embroidery, metal and leather craft, exalt the beautiful miniature and pichwai paintings or taste the distinct cuisine.

Rajasthan has something for everyone, just choose your activity. Live like a prince in the land of kings & princes.

For more information click on the link :
http://www.incredibleindia.org/newsite/cms_Page.asp?pageid=1213

Articles-Uttaranchal

2008-10-06T02:57:00.002-07:00
Uttaranchal: Dream come true

INDIATIMES NEWS NETWORK[ TUESDAY, MARCH 15, 2005 04:50:33 PM ]

Blessed with magnificent glaciers, majestic mountains, gigantic peaks, valley of flowers, skiing slopes and dense forests, Uttaranchal is a dream come true.

While the nature lovers get a real treat of the panoramic view of Himalayas, the adventure seekers visit the state for sports like river rafting, mountaineering, skiing and trekking.

With the four most sacred and revered Hindu sites Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri nestled in the mighty mountains, Uttaranchal is a destination for the pious. Rishikesh is one of the most popular pilgrim centres and gateway to the four shrines.

Many famous hill stations, other than the Capital Dehradun, like Mussorie and Nainital are also situated here.

Nainital is a glittering jewel in the Himalayan necklace, blessed with scenic natural splendour and varied natural resources.

Dotted with lakes, Nainital has earned the epithet of 'Lake District' of India.

The Corbett National Park and the Rajaji wildlife park famous for its tigers and wildlife is another reason to visit the state.

Corbett National Park has captured the imagination of many with its diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. The natural uniqueness of the area was recognised long ago and so in 1936 Corbett attained the distinction as the first national park to be established in mainland Asia.

The Yoga centres of Rishikesh have enhanced the significance of the place. UP Tourism organises an International Yoga Week here every year between February 2 and February 7.

For more information click on the link :
http://www.incredibleindia.org/newsite/cms_Page.asp?pageid=1363

Articles - Incredible India Interview

2008-10-06T02:57:00.001-07:00
'Incredible India' set for a new push

TIMES NEWS NETWORK[ TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2005 09:37:43 AM ]

NEW DELHI: India Tourism is set to give a new push to its high-profile 'Incredible India' campaign by inviting private sector's participation.

Large private tour operators in addition to travel agents could be roped in to lend a hand in showcasing India more effectively.

This suggestion is part of the new policy guidelines being formulated by the Ministry, according to a senior Tourism Ministry official.

"We are in the process of drafting the guidelines and fixing various parameters.

"But to specify exactly who or what will form part of the new India Tourism initiative overseas is difficult at this stage," says Leena Nandan, director in the Tourism Ministry.

What is certain is that 'Incredible India' is ready to move on to the next level.

The multi-million dollar campaign, into its third year now, has been seen to be highly successful overseas and instrumental in increasing the number of tourists to India.

Prior to the 'Incredible India' campaign, Tourism Ministry was solely dependant on the stray marketing efforts of its officers posted at the various overseas offices whose output levels largely influenced the tourist inflow from that country.

'Incredible India' marked the first time when India Tourism mounted a concerted, focused and centralised effort to increase what until then was an abysmal tourist inflow.

The results are there for everyone to see.

According to Nandan, actual arrivals have gone up 25 per cent up last year whereas there has been a 36 per cent increase in forex earnings year on year basis.

In fact, foreign tourist arrivals grew 17.3 per cent in February from a year earlier as the sector posted strong growth for the second month after the tsunami.The country recorded 372,269 foreign visitors in the past month against 317,498 a year earlier, while foreign exchange earnings rose 28.8 per cent to $570.53 million.

"Before the campaign, India was perceived to be having a very limited tourism product that included the Golden Triangle, Goa, Kerala and Himalayas etc.

"However, we are now focusing a lot on the country's diversity which has begun to pay rich dividends," says Nandan.

"We are offering a lot more: the colours of India, the food, the flavours, the people, various cultures and the like...

"We want to showcase the complete variety that India has to offer: from historical places to the modern India, all that is our strength," she adds.

A mix of niche marketing promotions for special interest groups are also in the offing, be it adventure tourism, spiritual tourism, flora and fauna or beaches of India.

Hence, a Buddhist Circuit Trail is being seen as a niche effort to woo a larger number of tourists from South-East Asia, China and Japan.

The scope of the campaign itself now spans not just the print media, but also television, radio and Internet in a big way.

Incidentally, Nandan believes this has generated the extra interest among global tourists and catapulted India to fifth position in the list of most attractive global destinations (as per the Lonely Planet Pulse Survey).

"Incredible India's success is still nowhere as commensurate with the country's tourism potential or the size of its economy and population, but the campaign has helped our cause like nothing before," says Nandan.

And this fact has not been lost on the Tourism Ministry.

"Overseas travelers have begun relating to 'Incredible India'. We have therefore planned a series of initiatives this year to achieve the campaign's full potential," adds Nandan.

The government has earmarked an enhanced $48.16 million for the campaign in the Union Budget for 2005-06.

Deserts

2008-10-06T02:46:00.000-07:00
India offers immense climatic diversity and topographical varieties. Deserts form the backdrop of many a legend in India, and in the present times, are touted as destinations of tourist interest.

The Thar or Great Indian Desert is an arid region (800 km) long and (400 km) wide, in North West of India and East of Pakistan, between the Indus and Sutlej river valleys on the west and the Aravali Range on the east. Largely a desolate region of shifting sand dunes, broken rocks, and scrub vegetation, it receives an annual average rainfall of less than 25 cm. The sparsely populated region has a pastoral economy. Through the extension of canals fed with Sutlej and Beas waters, irrigation has reclaimed some land for agriculture along the northern and western edges.

Nothing can prepare the visitor for the sheer magic and brilliance of the desert cities of Rajasthan. The camel rides on the sand dunes are an unforgettable experience as are the sunsets. These places boast of some very fine reminders of the glorious past - palaces, forts, temples and other elegant monuments of architectural and historical value and unforgettable treat for any visitor.

Explore the enigmatic desert of Rajasthan that will mystify your mind with its beauty and vastness. The gateway to the great Indian Thar desert through Jodhpur will take enchant you with a vast waste dotted with shifting sand dunes and sparse hamlets with cenotaphs called 'Chattris'. At Jaisalmer in the heart of the desert the majestic golden fort is a memorable sight as is the camel ride at nearby Sam. Equally enchanting are the forts at Bikaner and Madwa, which drifts your mind to the medieval times.

Rajasthan

•Jodhpur

•Jaisalmer

•Bikaner

•Barmer

Gujarat

•Bhuj

Deserts:Bhuj

2008-10-06T02:44:00.000-07:00

Bhuj, 48 kms from Gandhidham in the state of Gujarat, has been associated with three pre-historic legacies (the Indus Valley civilization, the Mahabharata, Alexander's conquest of India), Naga chieftains, the Chavda dynasty and the Solanki Rajput kings. However, it came into prominence during the reign of the Jadeja Rajputs - a clan that claimed descent from Lord Krishna and the moon god. The Jadejas went on to become one of the major Rajput powers of the region, commanding respect even from the Mughal emperors for their naval expertise - all ports other than those along the Gulf of Kutch fell to European maritime invaders.

A walled town, pictorially placed between two streams, Bhuj, like Jaisalmer and Bikaner, is a classic example of a desert township. Its' sandstone monuments give it a medieval aura and the 10.5-metre high city wall, forming an irregular polygon with five gates and towers, is an architectural marvel. The Bhujia Fort, from which Bhuj derives its name, overlooks the town from a 160-metre high hillock.

The Kutch Utsav commencing on the last day of February is a window to this ancient land of heroism and romance. It is a journey through a panorama of unending and enchanting images amidst diverse landscapes. Staged on the occasion of Mahashivratri, the festival provides a kaleidoscopic glimpse of the simple and hardy life of the myriad tribes, steeped in artistic tradition and suspended in time.

What to See

Darbargarh Palace - This historic palace complex, erected in various stages, is an intricate maze. It has three sections separated by open courtyards. The palace is built in typical medieval Rajput style with fabulous carved jharoka balconies, jail-screens and cupolas offering splendid views of the old fort, which now houses a government office and a school.

Sharad Bagh Palace - A retreat of the Maharaos of Kutch, this museum displays a collection of silver caskets, stuffed tigers, elephant tusks and even Maharao Madan Sinhji's tennis trophies! The folk museum has a re-created Kutchi village in the forecourt and an outstanding collection of beadwork, embroidery, leather articles, woodcarvings, pottery, and historic relics.

The Kutch Museum - Founded in 1877, this has a shipping display, Buddhist relics and a memorable collection of musical instruments.

Rao Pragmalji's Palace - Built in the 1860's and 70s in a Venetian-Gothic style, Pragmalji's Palace has pointed Gothic arches, classical colonnades and European truss timber roofs. The massive staircases and deep passages are floored with colourful Minton tiles and lined with handrails on classical balusters. The highlight is the Durbar Hall, which has Corinthian pillars, molded ceilings, huge Venetian chandeliers, Greco-Roman statutory, classical balustrade galleries and ceiling murals of Shakespearean characters. The furnishing is in the Victorian-Edwardian and art deco style. The Hall, which has a collection of hunting trophies, has now been converted into a museum.
The Maharao's chattris - The royalty of this desert kingdom made spectacular burial grounds, Chattardis, to match their larger-than-life images. All the funeral rites of the kings of the Rajor dynasty were done at these Chattardis. The grandest among them is the Chattardi of Raja Lakhpat who died in 1796. His 15 queens committed sati after his death and the main hall of his Chattardi has their idols along with his. Located adjacent to Lakhparo lake in the heart of the town, the cluster of cenotaphs have a rich array of beautiful and intricate carvings on sandstone. Additionally, there are the palias or funeral stones in memory of warriors, bardic poets and queens who committed sati.

Rudra Mata Mandir - 14 kms from Bhuj, on the road to Khavada, this temple, located at a scenic spot on the banks of the river Khari, is the presiding deity of the Maharajas of Kutch - the Jadeja family. According to mythology, it is 400 years old. A stone's throw away from the temple is the Garha Safari Lodge, a theme hotel that has a panoramic view of the river and offers an experience of staying in bhoongas, the traditional dwellings of the villagers but with all the modern comforts.

Deserts:Barmer

2008-10-06T02:43:00.001-07:00

The grandeur of sun-drenched sands.

Your journey t Barmer will be through rural Rajasthan. Stop and see the mud-walled houses decorated with delicate folk motifs. Barmer, once on ancient camel trade routes, is today a centre of woodcarving, carpets, embroidery and block printed fabrics.

Shopping - Wood carvings, hand-knotted carpets, embroidered and block-printed fabrics.

Festivals - Tilwara Cattle Fair, Ramdera Fair

Deserts:Bikaner

2008-10-06T02:41:00.000-07:00
Bikaner the royal fortified city stands on a slightly raised ground and is circumscribed by a 7 km long embattled wall with five gates. The magnificent forts and palaces created with delicacy in reddish-pink sandstone bears testimony to its rich cultural heritage. Bikaner more popularly called the camel country is renowned for the best riding camels in the world.

Junagarh Fort - The Junagarh Fort, built by Rai Singh between 1588 and 1593, has a 986-metre-long wall with 37 bastions, a moat and two entrances. Situated at a height of above seven hundred feet above sea level, it towers over the city and can be seen from a distance. The fort and its palaces are profusely decorated with magnificent stone carvings. The major buildings within the fort include the Anup Mahal, Diwan-e-Khas, Hawa Mahal, Badal Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Phool Mahal, Rang Mahal, Dungar Mahal, and Ganga Mahal. The Chandra Mahal has remarkable frescoes. Beautiful mirror work adorns the walls of Phool Mahal while golden pen work decorates the Anup Mahal.

Lalgarh Palace - Built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in memory of his father, the Lalgarh Palace is situated 3 km north of Bikaner city. Designed by Sir Swinton Jacob, the palace is quite imposing with overhanging balconies and delicate latticework. Peacocks and blooming bougainvillea in the garden welcome the visitor to the palace. To promote tourism, the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation has converted a portion of this palace into a hotel.

Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum - One of the best museums in Rajasthan, the Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum has one of the richest collections of terracotta ware, weapons, miniature paintings of Bikaner school and coins dating back to Harappan civilization and Gupta and Kushan era.

Raj Ratan Bihari and Rasik Shiromani Temple - These temples are situated inside the Ratan Bihari Park on the northern side of KEM road. Built in early 19th cent by Ratan Singuji and Sardar Singuji. They are of red sandstone and constructed in a mansion style of architecture.

Deserts:Jaisalmer

2008-10-06T02:40:00.000-07:00

The magic of a golden fortress.

Centuries ago, Jaisalmer was on the camel trading route between India and Central Asia. It is a city that rises from the desert like a golden mirage. Dominating the view is the awesome citadel on the hill - a fort built with the golden yellow stone of the area. Jaisalmer is a visual delight. Wander through its lanes and discover the 'Havelis' with delicately carved stone facades

Jaisalmer Fort - Built in golden yellow sandstone, this fairy-tale fortress stands on Tricuta Hill. Still inhabited, there are palaces and bazaars within the fortress.

Havelis - Healthy merchants built these exquisite Havelis, with profusely-carved stone facades. Don't miss Patwon Ki Haveli, Salim Singh Ki Haveli and Nathmal Ki Haveli.

Rishabdeviji Temple, Ashta Padi Mandir & Sambhavnath Temple - Dating from the 12th to 15th century, these three exquisite Jain temples contain a treasure of Jain manuscripts.

Shopping - At Manik Chowk, pick up woven blankets and shawls, mirror-work textiles, silver jewellery and block-printed textiles.

Festivals - Annual Desert Festival

Deserts:Jodhpur

2008-10-06T02:39:00.000-07:00
Grandeur by the sand dunes - Founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, Jodhpur was the capital of the princely state of Marwar, where the Rathor clan ruled. Set right at the edge of the Thar Desert, Jodhpur is strewn with forts and palaces that go back to the 15th century. On top of a hill, at the edge of the town, looms the Mehrangarh Fort, giving it a touch of medieval majesty.

Mehrangarh Fort - His formidable hilltop fort is one of the most impressive in Rajasthan. A series of gates lead into it, like Jayapol built by Maharaja Man Singh in 1806 and Fatehpol or 'Victory Gate' erected by Maharaja Ajit Singh to celebrate his victory over the Mughals. Inside the fort, see the palaces: Moti Mahal or 'Pearl Palace', Sukh Mahal or 'Pleasure Palace' and Phool Mahal or 'Flower Palace'.

Jaswant Thada - Marble cenotaph built in 1899 as a memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II.

Ummaid Bhawan Palace - Built by Maharaja Ummaid Singh in1943, this marble and sandstone palace is an imposing sight. The museum here has a fascinating collection of antique clocks and miniature paintings.

Shopping - At Mochi Galli. Look for embroidered leather shoes, tie and dye fabrics, lacquer ware, antiques and puppets.

Cuisine - Try makhaniya lassie- a delicious creamy drink. And popular desserts - mawa laddoo, mawa kachori, dhood firni.

Festivals - Marwar festival, A cattle fair in Nagaur, Shitlamata fair at Kaga, Gangaur Fair at Pipar.

Deserts:Rajasthan

2008-10-06T02:38:00.001-07:00

Rajasthan still retains an elusive fairy-tale character. It is a land where tales of valour of its medieval Rajput warriors are still sung by its travelling bards. Rajasthan is the 'Land of the King'. Opulent palaces dot the desert landscape and battle-scarred fortresses appear on every hill like sentinels of the past. Here, folk culture still retains all its colour and vivacity with exuberant celebrations of fairs and festivals, a music that echoes across the desert emptiness and a tradition of craftsmanship with a highly developed aesthetic sense.

Begin your desert adventure at Jodhpur, a fortress-city at the edge of the Thar Desert. Then travel to Jaisalmer to see its unforgettable golden fortress. The trade route outpost of Bikaner still retains a medieval flavour and the route to Barmer will take you through typical Rajasthani villages.

Cool Retreats

2008-10-06T02:23:00.000-07:00

Andhra Pradesh
Arunachal Pradesh
Assam
Jharkhand
Gujarat
Haryana
Himachal Pradesh
Jammu & Kashmir
Karnataka
Kerala
Madhya Pradesh
Maharashtra
Meghalaya
Rajasthan
Sikkim
Tamil Nadu
Uttaranchal
W est Bengal

Cool Retreats:West Bengal

2008-10-06T02:22:00.000-07:00
Darjeeling

It is the dreamland of the East; it has been a popular hill station since the British period. Darjeeling is surrounded by lofty mountains. Except for the monsoon months and if weather is clear then the Kanchenjunga peak can be seen. Down below in the valley flow the rivers swollen by rain water or melting snow. Darjeeling is a fascinating place rich in natural beauty and surrounded by the Buddhist monasteries. Its beauty surpasses any other hill station. The toy train coming from Siliguri is some thing, which is liked by the elders and the children equally. The real fun in coming to Darjeeling is on the toy train. It takes six to seven hours to cover a distance of 82 kms and the slow speed gives you enough time to watch and appreciate the beauty which nature has provided it. This train passes through the Forests, waterfalls, over deep valleys and through the mountains and tunnels

Kalimpong

A small but bustling town in the Himalaya foothills of West Bengal- Kalimpong is at an altitude of 1250 meters. This bazaar town was originally a part of Bhutan but later it was taken over by the British and finally it became a part of West Bengal. Kalimpong is famous for its monasteries, Churches and a private library for the study of Tibetan and Himalayan languages, culture etc. This place also has the Sericulture centre and the orchid nurseries and of course the place provides some beautiful sights of the Himalayan range. Though not all travellers visit this place, which demands some attention. The journey from Darjeeling along the Teesta River is very interesting.

Mirik

It is 52 kms from Siliguri and 55 kms from the nearest Airfield of Bagdogra. Mirik is being developed as a new hill station in the mountains. Mirik is surrounded by tea estates, orange orchards and cardamom plantations. Mirik has all the facilities to fulfil the needs of a tourist, it is surrounded by forests, flowers and is a very peaceful place which attracts the tourists automatically. This fast developing as a tourist paradise. This place is 5,800 feet above the sea level and has very thin population of 10,000 people. Mirik has not yet acquired the hustle and bustle of the regular hill station and is from pollution. Thus the little time spend here is enough to refresh you.

Cool Retreats:Uttaranchal

2008-10-06T02:21:00.000-07:00
Almora

Almora is one of the most beautiful places in Kumaon region in Uttaranchal. Almora is very virgin hill-station and is full of scenic beauty. It appears that Mother Nature has spread and blessed this place with her pure love. Nestled in the lap of nature this region has small houses built on the slopes and splendour of this place are added colourful attire of the natives. Just besides city flows the Koshi (Kaushaki) and Suyal (Salmali) rivers

Mussoorie

It is located at a height of 2,500 meters in the green Himalayan range. Due to its location and beauty Mussoorie is considered as the best hill station in the northern region. In 1820 Captain Young from the British army was influenced by the beauty of this place and made this place as his residence. The name, Mussoorie, is derived from plants of 'Mussoorie' which were found in abundance here. The modern bungalows, malls and well-laid gardens, which are located on the small hills around the area, are enough to attract any tourist.

Nainital

A small town in the hills of Kumaon, Nainital is a lovely hill station surrounded by mountains on three sides. Once this area had many lakes and it was called the City of 60 lakes or 'Chakta'. Most of the lakes in the region have disappeared and whatever remains is just a glimpse of what they might have been in the past. Today the life of Nainital revolves around the lake of Naini. But there are few other lakes around Nainital, which are equally beautiful and attractive as the Naini Lake.

Pithoragarh

The easternmost hill district of Uttaranchal, Pithoragarh is often referred to as Miniature Kashmir. Nestling in a small valley, barely 5 km long and 2 km wide, the town also known as Sore Valley was an important landmark of the Chand Rajas of Kumaon. It is situated at an altitude of 1,650 m above sea level and has the facility of three spoken languages, namely Hindi, Kumaoni and English.

Cool Retreats:Tamil Nadu

2008-10-06T02:20:00.000-07:00
Coonoor

Coonoor is situated on the eastern side of the southern extremity of the Doddabetta range, at an altitude of 1,858 metres above the sea level. It is the second largest hill station in the Nilgiris. Coonoor is located 19-km away from Ooty, a famous hill station of India. Coonoor is the first of the three hill stations in the Nilgiris- Ooty, Kotagiri and Coonoor - that one comes across when leaving behind the southern plains. Grassy meadows, tea bushes and profusion of Sunflowers, Marigolds and Rhododendrons, all growing wild cover it. Coonoor is essentially a small tea garden town where the weather remains pleasantly cool throughout the year. The town is physically divided into upper and lower Coonoor.

Kodaikanal

It is located amidst the folds of the verdant Pali hills is one of the most popular serene hill stations in India, which mesmerises any visitor. With her wooded slopes, mighty rocks, enhancing waterfalls and a beautiful lake, Kodaikanal is a charming hill station. Kodai is situated at an altitude of about 2,133-m high and covers an area of 21.45-sq-km. The pride of Kodaikanal is the 'Kurinji-flower', which blossoms once in 12 years. The hill-plantain fruits and plums are known for their freshness and taste.

Kotagiri

Kotagiri is located 16-km away from Ooty and it is the oldest hill station of the Nilgiris. Kotagiri is situated at an altitude of 1950m, which was once a British hill resort, that dates back to 1819 and is quieter than Ooty. Elk Falls, Kodanad Viewpoint and Catherine Falls are a few places to visit.

Ketty

Ketty is famous for having the highest railway station in the country, situated at a height of 7,000 ft, in the Nilgiri Mountains of South India. The weather of Ketty valley is salubrious. Ketty is a wealth of natural beauty reposing in the Wenlock Downs, the Municipal Gardens and Doddabetta Peak, at 2,623 m the highest in the Nilgiris.

Udhagamandalam (Ooty)

The capital of Nilgiri district, is popularly known as the "Queen of hill stations' among the tourist circuits. It is situated at a distance of 105 km away from Coimbatore. The height of the hills in the Nilgiri range varies between 2280 and 2290 meters, the highest peak being Doddabetta at a height of 2623 meters.

Yercaud

Yercaud is a lesser-known hill station when compared to Ooty and Kodaikanal. Yercaud is situated at an altitude of 1,500 meters (4,920 feet), on the Shevaroy hills of the Eastern Ghats. The lofty hills are of extraordinary scenic beauty endowed with a salubrious climate. Yercaud is also called "Ooty of the Poor " and is known for Coffee Plantations and Orange Groves.

Courtallam

High up in the Western Ghats, on the Kerala border, Courtallam is halfway between the towns of Shencotti & Tenkasi in Tamilnadu. It is known as the "Spa of the South" for it's numerous Waterfalls. A major tourist attraction for bathers during the peak summer seasons from June to September. There are six major waterfalls, Main Falls, Shengadevi Falls, Honey Falls, Five Falls (made of five distinct streams) and the Old falls.

Cool Retreats:Sikkim

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Gangtok

Kanchenjunga seen from Gangtok
Gangtok, the "Lofty Hill" or the "Hill made flat to build the Gangtok monastery in 1716". Gangtok is a city, which, till one sees it, one would believe exists only in picture-story books. In the mystery-laden mists prayer flags whip in the breeze; wheels spin in the hands of Lamas mumbling invocations to God, in the distance are the snows, on the streets amidst brightly painted pagoda roofed houses, lined with friendly smiling people are silver, silk and spice and jewellery to gladden an maiden's heart, from across the seven seas are gadget and goods to delight the collector of "imported goods', while directly overlooking the city is the hill Lukshyma, the 'Mother of Pearl' citadel of the magic mountain, Khang-Chen-Dzod-Nga. An air of enchantment hangs over the city, indeed the whole valley; the mysticism, the stupas, the monasteries reach out as soon as one has crossed the border. While across the hills and valleys comes the sounding of the long trumpets by robed lamas.

Cool Retreats:Rajasthan

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Mount Abu

The only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu huddles among the rocks on a 1,220-m granite table mountain at the far southwestern end of the Aravalli hills. It is built around a lake and is surrounded by forested hills. According to a legend, the place derives its name from Arbuda, a serpent who descended to the spot to rescue Shivas bull, Nandi. Besides having all the features of a pleasant hill resort, Mount Abu is also well known for the famous Dilwara temples and many more archaeological remains. There are interesting treks and picnic spots, romantic royal retreats of the various erstwhile families of bygone Rajputana and some relics of the Raj period. The scenic landscapes include gigantic blocks of rocks in weird shapes, an array of coniferous trees, flowering shrubs, lovely lakes and the cool climate much in contrast to the arid environs of the state.

Cool Retreats:Meghalaya

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Shillong
Perched at an altitude of 1,496 m, this lesser known hill station is also called the "Scotland of the east". The charms of Shillong begin to work gradually but effectively. The road snakes up through lush green forests, seeping into the senses like heady wine. Even before the effect of Umiam Lake wears off, Shillong spreads out with its lush green undulating hills, cottages tucked in its folds with a sprinkling of old world cathedrals and churches and localities with quaint names like 'Laitumkrah', 'Sunnyhill', 'Lachumiere', 'Mawalai', 'Nongthymiah' and 'Pokseh'.

The legends might have vague roots but there is no disputing that nature has been more than partial where Shillong is concerned. Towering pines and gurgling mountain streams, awesome waterfalls that go by the name of Elephant, Crinoline, sweet falls, and the twin Bishop and Beadon. Then there are lakes and gorges and caverns that all combine to make Shillong a tourist's delight.

Cool Retreats:Maharashtra

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Amboli

The British political agent, Colonel Westrop, developed Amboli as a hill station after the opening of the Ghat Road from the coastal town of Vengurla, now in southern Maharashtra, to Belgaum. It is located in Sindhudurg district at an altitude of 690m form the flat beaches. Amboli is the last mountain resort before the coastal plains begin in the southern ranges of the Sahyadri Hills. Submerged by dense forests and steep valleys, this tranquil mountaintop offers some of the best panoramic views of the Konkan coast.

In rainy season, the hill station is wrapped in mist. In other seasons there are fine views of the Konkan coastal belt. Amboli is one of the few hill stations from where one can really see the sea. It is quiet and peaceful. If one is looking to spend a few days in splendid isolation with the family, Amboli is an ideal resort.
Mahabaleshwar

The Queen of all Hill Stations is situated at an altitude of 1,372m in the heart of Sahyadri Hills in Satara District. The name 'Mahabaleshwar' is derived from a temple of Lord Mahadev and three Sanskrit words, "Maha" (great), "Bal" (power) and "Ishwar" (God). Mahabaleshwar is famous for its scenic beauty and the splendid views of the valleys and the sea, which is quite visible in clear days pony rides on the lanes of Mahabaleshwar, are quite thrilling. Several charming hill resorts nestle in these mountains.

Bhandardara

Bhandardara is located 70-km away from Nasik. An exquisite holiday resort and an ideal getaway for fun-loving trekkers and picnickers, Bhandardara houses exhilarating waterfall - Radha Falls, a deep valley, a clean and large Arthur Lake, a historical Ratangadh Fort, an ancient temple - Amritheshwar Temple, a peaceful Agasti Rishi Ashram, Wilson Dam also known as Bhandardara Dam, and Viewpoints. It also hosts an ideal trekking destination - Mount Kalusubai.

Toranmal

It is located in middle range of Satpuda Hills in Akrani Taluka, Nandurbar district. A hill station situated at an altitude of 1461m. Due to higher elevation and the wooded surroundings, Toranmal plateau has a very cool and bracing climate like any hill station. The natural flora and fauna of the Satpuda forests are some of the pleasures one will find along with the calm and serene beautiful spot engulfed by 7 towering ranges of the Satpuda Mountain.
Chikaldhara

Chikhaldara is located in Amaravati district of Vidarbha region. The only hill station in the Vidarbha region offers you an abundance of wildlife, viewpoints, lakes and waterfalls. It is named after "Keechaka". This is the place where Bheema killed villainous Keechaka and threw him into the valley. It thus came to be known as "Keechakadara"-"Chikhaldara" is its corruption.

Jawahar

Jawhar is located in Thane District. It is a hill station with a difference that makes one to forget one's daily chores and all the turmoil's with exotic valleys, thick rich forests and a pleasant climate. It is famous for the vibrant Warli paintings. A hill station with raw jungle beauty is one of the few tribal kingdoms in Maharashtra

Lonavala & Khandala

They are two charming little hill stations on the western slopes of the Sahyadris, 5-km apart, that straddle the Mumbai - Pune highway at an altitude of 625m, quite popular as health resorts. Blessed by the nature in bounty, the hill resorts have plethora of places of Tourist Attraction in Lonavala & Khandala - Beautiful Hills, Deep Green Valleys, Huge Lakes, Historic Forts, Waterfalls, etc.

Panhala

It is situated at an altitude of 977.2m is a fascinating hill station with a rich historical heritage. Dotted with ancient fortifications and buildings that have witnessed the rise and fall of the Maratha Empire, Panhala is an enchanting place. Peaceful beyond imagination, free from pollution, and scenic enough to overwhelm your senses.

Panchgani

It is an idyllic mountain retreat in the Krishna valley. Tucked away in the Satara district of Maharashtra, Panchgani is a well-known hill station of Maharashtra on the highway to Mahabaleshwar from Pune. It derives its name from the five hills around it. At an altitude of 1,334m, it is just 38m below Mahabaleshwar. These 38m translate themselves into a breathtaking 18-km approach, offering heart-stopping views of the River Krishna on one side and the coastal plains on the other. It is the first hill town one reaches from Mahabaleshwar on the Pune road.

Cool Retreats:Madhya Pradesh

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Pachmarhi

At an altitude of 3,555 feet, surrounded by Satpura hills is located the summer capital of Madhya Pradesh- Pachmarhi. As a hill station this place has been untouched and unexplored. The natural beauty of Pachmarhi has remained unexploited and is lesser known to the foreign tourists. Geographically Pachmarhi is a group of waterfalls. Apart from the ancient temples and buildings, this place is known for its naturalbeauty. Though Pachmarhi has no comparison with the hill stations of the Himalayas still it carries a charm of its own which is unique to this place.

Cool Retreats:Kerala

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Attappady

Located 38 kms from Mannarkkad, the place consists of mostly hilly highland terrain, fed by the tributaries of the River Cauvery. An extensive mountain valley above the crest of the Ghat ranges with numerous rivulets of the Bhavani River, Attapady is inhabited mainly by tribes and some settlers from Tamil Nadu. A beautiful synthesis of mountains, rivers and forests, Attapaddy is of great interest to anthropologists, as this is the habitat of many tribes like the 'irolas' and 'mudugars'.

Devikulam

Located 16 kms from Munnar, this gorgeous hill station symbolizes nature in her pristine glory. The crisp and cool mountain air heavily laden with the fragrance of wild flowers and rare herbs is any nature lover's paradise.

Topstation

The idyllic hill station is located 32 kms from Munnar, on the Munnar-Kodaikanal Road. Perched at an altitude of 1700 m above sea level, it is the highest point on Munnar-Kodaikanal Road. The rare Neelakurinji (Strobilanthus), the flower that blooms once in 12 years, belongs to this region.

Munnar

This hill station, located at an altitude of 1600 m above sea level, was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picture book towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular resort town. Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands is the 'Neelakurinji'.

Peerumedu

It is a small hill station, snuggled at an altitude of 914 m above sea level, on way to Thekkady. The famous plantation town takes its name from Peer Mohammad, a Sufi saint and close associates of the erstwhile royal family of Travancore.

Nelliyampathy
Located at a distance of 52 kms from Palakkad, the cool hills of Nelliampathy, nestling atop the Western Ghats, offer a breathtaking view of the misty mountains and enchanting valleys interspersed with sprawling tea, coffee, cardamom and orange plantations.

Pakshipatalam

It is located 7 kms north east of Thirunelli Temple in Brahma Giri Hills is a challenging tourist spot. A trekkers' paradise, this place is accessible only by trekking. Located at an altitude of 1740 m above sea level, this hill station offers great opportunities for bird watching. One has to trek 17 kms through the wild forests, to reach 'Pakshipathalam'
Ponmudi

The salubrious hill station of Ponmudi is at a distance of 61 kms from Thiruvananthapuram. Perched at an altitude of over 100 m above sea level on the Western Ghats, the shimmering green waters of the winding streams and verdant woods of Ponmudi do not spare anybody. Trekking is a passion with the visitors to Ponmudi, lying within easy driving distance from Thrivandrum.

Wayanad

The forests of Wayanad are a veritable treasure house of Flora & Fauna. Wildlife freely roams in the sanctuaries of Matthunga, Begur and Tholpetty. Home to stunning orchids, pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, rubber, bamboo and coffee, Wayanad has a surprise in store for you at every nook & corner. Tucked in the verdant tropical womb are the twin lakes of Vythiri & Lakkidi. 3 Km from Lakkidi is the Pookote Lake, covered in parts with lotus, a picture out of a fairy tale book. At 6,890 ft is Chembra Peak just 24 Km from Vythiri.
Silent Valley
One of the least disturbed forests of 'God's own country' the Silent Valley. It is popular that it is named so because it is devoid of the most common sound found in the Rain forests; The incessant chirping of cicadas. The local name of the forest is 'Sairandhri', another name of Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas. Some believe its name is derived from the lion-tailed Macaque, whose scientific name is Macca Silenus. Due to its topographic isolation no human being has ever made it their home. Places to see around Silent Valley, Attapady (35 Km) -- a tribal settlement for the Irulas and Mudugars, Malleshwaram Peak -- worshipped as a Shivaling by the Tribals.

Malampuzha

Malampuzha Dam is in the foothills of the Western Ghats. It is known as the abode of Yakshi, because of the exquisite sculpture of Yakshi in the landscaped gardens of the irrigation dam at this popular picnic spot. The central attraction of this town is the unabashed yet enticing sculpture created in concrete by Kanai Kunhiraman, Kerala's best-known contemporary sculptor. Referred as the Vrindavan of Kerala, the place derives its name from the Malampuzha River a tributary of Bharatpuzha, the state's second largest river. The Rock Garden here, created by the fames re-cycling artist Nekchand, is particularly worth spending time. Also boating on the reservoir is another favourite sport.

Snake Park (Malampuzha)

Set up in 1984 by the state govt. the park houses several snakes like the Forsten's cat snake, the brown vine snake and of course the King Cobra, Indian rock python, kraits, the trinket snake and the rock pit viper, the wolf snake, and a variety of vipers like the saw scaled viper and Russel viper. There are various types of cobra like the common cobra, the monocled cobra, and the spectacled cobra. Also in the park are some varieties of water snakes, crocodiles and the American green iguana. Also in Malampuzha is the thread garden, a museum of a replica of nature, all made of thread.

Palakkad

Palakkad the rice bowl of Kerala is a gateway between Kerala & Tamil Nadu. The Palakkad Fort built by Hyder Ali of Mysore in 1776, is popularly called Tipu's fort. The once proud Granite fort of strong bastions & thick walls and a drawbridge, maybe crumbling with age, yet is worth a visit.

Cool Retreats:Karnnataka

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Baba Budan

To the north of Chikmaglur town is the Baba Budan Range or Chandra Drona Parvatha as it was known in the ancient times, which has one of the highest mountain peaks between the Himalayas and the Nilgiris.

Biligiriranga Betta (B.R.Hills)

120 kms from Mysore and 247 kms from Bangalore, the Biligirirangana range of hills is picturesquely situated between the Cauvery and the Tungabhadra rivers. At a height of 5,091 ft above sea level, this hill stretches from north to south for about 16 kms. Surrounded by deciduous trees, the forests are teeming with wildlife. So if you're looking for a 'cool' time with a little bit of 'wild' excitement thrown in, welcome to B.R. Hills. Wake up to the chirping of birds and the humming of bees. Breathe in fresh, clean air. Take a stroll through the sylvan surroundings. And let the cool breeze blow your cares away. As the day slips quietly into night, watch the stars come out, one by one. The moon casts a silver light. And somewhere in the distance you hear a tiger roar. One can feel the proximity with the nature.
Best Season: Sep To May

Kudremukh

The Horse-Face Hill Station 95 kms south-west of Chikmaglur town is the Kudremukh (Horse Face) range. Overlooking the Arabian Sea, the broad hills are chained to one another with deep valleys and steep precipices. As yet 'undiscovered' by tourists, Kudremukh is a secluded hill station, which retains much of its pristine, natural beauty.

Kemmanagundi

In the Tarikere Taluk of Chikmaglur District is a picturesque hamlet - Kemmanugundi, also called K.R.Hills, after the Wodeyar king Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV, who made it his favourite summer camp. Nestling amidst lush green forests, the quiet, peaceful and serene Kemmanugundi is sure to revive and rejuvenate you physically, mentally and spiritually. The panoramic views, the ornamental gardens, the songs of the birds, the rays of the sun trying to peep through the trees, all are sure to leave the visitors spellbound. Time tiptoes gently here.

Nandi Hills

60 kms north of Bangalore is the summer resort called Nandi Hills. Also known as Nandidurga, it was one of the summer retreats of Tipu Sultan. Nandi Hills was popular with the British too who built bungalows and laid out gardens here. It is a hot favourite among Bangaloreans who find this an ideal get-away for weekends. The 1478-m high Nandi Hills is the originating point of many rivers. And the forests surrounding the hills abound with wild animals. Around the Nandi Hills are several smaller hills, which can be visited on foot.

Gopalaswamy Betta

Perched at a height of 1454 m the relatively unknown Betta is an idyllic and especially beautiful hill station tucked 75 km away from Mysore. Enveloped in mist most of the time, the hills are literally an abode in the clouds giving one an ethereal feeling of walking in them. As the mist rises from the hillock, the surroundings become visible offering breathtaking glimpses. There are many scenic valleys, gorges and hills like Neeladri, Hamsadri, Garudadri, Pallava and Mallikajunagiri. Abounding in rare flora, the region is virtually a storehouse of medicinal plants.

Cool Retreats:Jammu and Kashmir

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Gulmarg

The valley of Gulmarg, a large meadow about 3-sq-kms in area, stands at 2,730 meters, 56-km south west of Srinagar. The name means 'Meadow Of Flowers' and in the spring it's just that, a rolling meadow dotted with countless colourful Bluebells, Daisies, Forget Me Nots and Buttercups. The valley itself is about 3-km long and up to a km wide. All around are snow-capped mountains, and on a clear day one can see all the way to Nanga Parbat is one direction and Srinagar is another. It's a popular day trip from Srinagar to Gulmarg, although many people extend their stay or use it as a base for trekking. The road from Srinagar rises gently towards the lower slopes of the range, passing through rice and maize fields.
Best Time To Visit:
In Summer - May to September
In Winter - Nov to February

Pahalgam
At an altitude of 2,130m and about 95-km from Srinagar, Pahalgam is probably the most popular hill resort in the Kashmir valley. Since it is rather lower than Gulmarg the night time temperatures do not drop so low and it has the further advantage of the beautiful Lidder River running right through the town. Pahalgam is situated at the junction of the Aru and Sheshnag Rivers and surrounded by soaring, fir-covered mountains with bare, snow-capped peaks rising behind them.
Best Time To Visit:
In Summer-May To September
In Winter-Nov To Feb.
Patnitop
With all its beauty at a hill station, it is a charming plateau at 2, 024m. The meadow is surrounded by dense woods and lush greenery of Pines. Tracks lead to pockets where time stands still and calm prevails. Picturesquely situated at a high altitude, there are good bridle paths passing through wooded lanes and fascinating scenery link Patnitop with Kud and Batote. There are three, gushing, ice-cold freshwater springs in the area, which are said to have medicinal properties. The complete tourist circuit covers Jammu-Katra-Vaishno Deviji, Kud-Sanasar, Patnitop-Gourikund, Sudmahadev, Mantali, extending upto Latti-Dhuna.
Best Time To Visit:
Summer- May To June
Autumn-September To October
Winter - December To March

Srinagar
The capital of Jammu and Kashmir and the largest city in the state, Srinagar (1,730m) is famous for its canals, houseboats and Mughal gardens. The city itself is quite unlike most other large Indian cities for here you are much more in Central Asia than on the sub continent. It's a city full of intriguing alleyways and curious buildings. A place where it's very easy to spend a few hours simply wandering - particularly along the old city streets near the Jhelum river.
Best Time To Visit:
In Summer - June To Early Nov
In Winter - Dec To Feb

Cool Retreats:Himachal Pradesh

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Chamba
It is the land of antiquity, art and scenic beauty, is a wonder in itself for every visitor. Situated at the height of 996 m. above sea level on the south bank of the Ravi River, the ancient Pahari capital was founded in 920 A.D. by Raja Sahil Verma, who named it after his favourite daughter Champavati. The valley is noted for the magnificence of it's scenery-touching the fringe of the Shivaliks and having three well-defined snowy ranges, the Dauladhar, constituting the outer Himalayas, the Pir Panjal or the mid Himalayas, and the Zanskar range or the inner Himalayas.
Kullu
Located in Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of 1220m. Kullu was once known as Kulanthpitha, which means the end of the habitable world. Beyond rose the forbidding heights of the Greater Himalayas, and by the banks of the shining river Beas, lay the fabled 'Silver Valley'. The mountain-scapes remain spectacular whether in brilliant sunshine or in the haze of the mist. The 'Silver Valley' has nature's treasures that lie carelessly scattered as flowers on the high meadows. The town of Kullu has long been a centre of faith. In the 17th century, Raja Jagat Singh installed here an idol of Lord Raghunathji, which he brought from Ayodhya. As a mark of his penance, he placed the idol on his throne and it became the presiding deity of the valley.
Best Time To Visit: Mid-May To Mid-October.

Lahaul
Lahaul and Spiti, situated at an altitude of 6,500 mtrs are two remote Himalayan valleys of Himachal Pradesh lying on the Indo-Tibet border. Strange, exciting, primitive, these valleys are incomparable in mountain scape, in the rugged beauty of their rocky escapements and the splendour of their snow covered peaks.
Best Time To Visit: Lahaul- Mid June To Late October / Spiti- August To October.
Manali
Situated at an altitude of 2,050m. The Kullu valley has an ancient town in its lap called Manali. Surrounded by towering peaks at an arm length, Manali's major asset is its proximity to the snowline. It is a flourishing orchard industry, a popular honeymoon destination and trailhead for numerous treks as well as a great countryside ideal for adventure sport lovers.
Best Time To Visit: May To October.
Dalhousie
This hill station spreads over five low-level hills at the western edge of the Dhauladhar range, just east of the Ravi River. The picturesque town is interspersed with the colonial-era buildings, low roofed stalls and hotels. The pine-covered slopes around it are intersected with paths and treks, which are ideal for short undemanding walks.
Dharamsala
Set against the backdrop of the dramatic Dhauladhar mountains, Dharamsala is perched on the high slopes in the upper reaches of Kangra Valley. Dharamsala over looks the plains and is surrounded by dense pine trees and Deodar forests. A nearby snowline with numerous streams and cool healthy atmosphere makes the surroundings very attractive. Dharamsala is a busy bazaar town and has established itself as the travellers base camp, who come to explore the nearby mountains.
Best Time To Visit: Mid-May To Mid-October
Shimla
Shimla is situated at an altitude of 2,159m. Shimla has been blessed with all the natural bounties, one can think of. Dwelling on a panoramic location, the hilly town is surrounded by green pastures and snow-capped peaks. The spectacular cool hills accompanied by the structures made during the colonial era create an aura, which is very different from other hill stations.
Best Time To Visit: April To August & December To January.
Chail
Chail is situated at 43 km higher then Shimla it was created by Maharaja of Patiala who was banned from Shimla on account of a mild romantic flutter at scandal point on Shimla's Mall. He created his own 75 acres Himalayan resort, which has now become a prominent tourist spot. Chail is set amidst tall cedars & stately oaks. When trekking through forest you are sure to meet barking deer & the highly endangered kaleej pheasant. And when tired, sit down & be refreshed by dazzling views of the Choor Chandani Peak
Kufri & Fagu
Situated at 8,602 ft 17 km away from Shimla guarded by the vast expense of ancient cedar forests, bring back memories of day long picnics, horse riding & languorous walk during lazy hazy summer hols. Mahasu peak the highest point in Kufri ,makes a challenging hike.When the sky's a cloudless blue , watch the views of snowy clad peaks of Badrinath & Kedarnath The hills come alive with shouts of young voices throwing snow balls on each other during winter season .Kufri also provide finest ski slopes thus attracting ski expertise from all over the country
Mashobra
This tiny Raj-era retreat is at height of 7,047 ft, 10 km north of Shimla. Mashobra was the first choice of British officials and their families who wanted proximity to as well as privacy from Shimla. Decades after they left, their indulgence still marks Mashobra's stylish properties Two of the village's most prominent structures, The Wildflower Hall and The Retreat are delight to stay having world class facility.

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Places to Visit Before You Die

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KASHMIR: PARADISE ON EARTH
ALMORA
RANIKHET: QUEEN’S MEADOW
MANALI: VALLEY OF THE GOD
SHIMLA: QUEEN OF THE HILLS
GOA: TOURISTS’ PARADISE
NAINITAL : CITY OF LAKES
KAUSANI: SWITZERLAND OF INDIA
KHAJURAHO: TEMPLES OF LOVE
LUCKNOW: BADA IMAMBADA

KASHMIR: PARADISE ON EARTH

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Official Website: www.jktourism.org

Despite of all sorts of militancy in Kashmir, the paradise on earth was visited in May 2006. Best season is March to October.

Cradled in the lap of majestic snow capped mountains of the Himalayas, Kashmir was the most beautiful place on earth. On visiting the Valley of Kashmir, Jehangir, the Mughal emperor, is said to have exclaimed: “If there is paradise anywhere on earth, it is here, it is here, it is here.”
Srinagar, the city of great antiquity, is located in the heart of Kashmir at an altitude of 1730 mtrs above the sea level, with the three majestic Himalayan ranges of Karakoram, Zanskar and Pir Panjal framing the landscape from northwest to northeast.
The biggest attraction of Kashmir is the Dal Lake which is host to the word’s famous Shikaras and Houseboats. This jewel in the crown of Kashmir is a sight worth beholding in winter when the lake freezes.
Dal lake is one of the most beautiful and famous lakes of India and it is one of the best spots in Kashmir for the tourists. The Dal Lake is 6 Km long and 6 Km in width and situated at a distance of 2 km from the main city Srinagar. Inside the lake there are many Islands and floating gardens. The lake is surrounded by high mountain peaks, Cheenar, deodar and Pine trees.
Shalimar Garden (shown above) was built by Jehangir, the Mughal emperor, in 1619 for his beloved wife.Chasmeshahi or the Royal Spring(below) was laid by Emperor Shah Jahan, famous for its refreshing digestive natural mineral water.
Gulmarg(above), 57 kms from Srinagar and a meadow of flowers is best known for unparalleled beauty. Sonmarg or Sona marg, the golden meadow at an altitude of 2470 mtrs, is the gateway to Ladakh.
Pahel gam (above) is a quaint, nomadic village, with scenic beauty, 96 kms from Srinagar, still unspoilt by the ravages of progress.

Kashmiri woman

The valley remained favourite shooting spot for Bollywood Hindi films producers till 1980s before the onset of militancy in 1990. Several blockbusters like Kashmir ki kali, Silsila, karma, Arzoo, Betaab and recently Mission Kashmir were shot here.

ALMORA

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The Township of Almora is the district headquarter and has all the facilities for tourists. This ancient hill station is reputed for it’s healthy climate and is perched on a five Km. long horse saddle shape ridge in. Rabindranath Tagore spent some times at Almora and composed some of his poems here. In May and Jun, the climate is very pleasant and best for visitors.One can have a panoramic view of the snowy peaks of Himalayas on any clear day and in addition a glimpse of the township.
This ancient town seems to be more modern than other towns. Here hotels are more tasteful and provides better services than other places. As a tourist its my experience, which may not be correct to everybody. Spectacular views of sunrise, sunset and Himalaya peaks can be enjoyed From the rooftop of the Hotel Himsagar, where we stayed.


RANIKHET: QUEEN’S MEADOW

2008-10-05T03:09:00.000-07:00

It was a favourite place of the queen of Chandraja Suridev. This is what made the place known as Ranikhet (Queen’s Meadow). In clear sky snow capped Himalaya ranges - Nandadevi, Neelkantha, Kamet Gouriparvat, Hatiparvat, nandagunti, Trishul, Nandakote and many more peaks are visible from this place. The place is having natural beauty decorated with Pine, Ceeder, Oak, Cyprash etc. It is situated at a height of 1829 meters. It is the HQ of Kumaon rifles.

MANALI: VALLEY OF THE GOD

2008-10-05T02:58:00.000-07:00
Official Website: himachaltourism.nic.in/kulu.htm

Manali in the Beas River valley, at an altitude of 1,950 mtrs, is an important hill station in the Himachal mountains of Himachal Pradesh, India. Manali and its surrounding areas are of great significance to the Indian culture and heritage as it was the home and abode of the Saptarshi or seven sages. The word Manali literally means “the abode of Manu”. Manali is known as the “Valley of the Gods”. The ancient cave temple, Hidimba Devi Temple is not far from town. Picture below shows the Beas river (as seen from Van Vihar) and Buddhist Monastery.

It is famous for adventure sports like skiing, hiking, mountaineering, para gliding, rafting, trekking, and mountain biking. It also offers hot springs, spectacular religious shrines and temples, Tibetan Buddhist temples.
Rohtang Pass (Above picture ), at an altitude of 13,050 feet above sea level, is another adventure tourist site where it can be cold even on a summer day. It is the highest point on the Manali-Keylong road and provides a wide panoramic view of mountains rising far above clouds, which is truly breath taking.

Manikaran, 85 km from Manali and 45 km from Kullu, lies in the Parvati Valley. Here icy cold waters of the Parvati river co-exist with hot-water springs side-by-side. The springs are known for their healing properties.

SHIMLA: QUEEN OF THE HILLS

2008-10-05T02:53:00.000-07:00

Official Website: himachaltourism.nic.in/shim.htm

Simla is a important hill station in Himachal Pradesh, India. In 1864, Shimla was declared the summer capital of the erstwhile British Raj in India. A popular tourist destination, Shimla is often referred to as the “Queen of Hills”. Located in north-west Himalayas at an altitude of 2,130 metres, the city of Shimla, draped in forests of pine, rhododendron and oak, experiences pleasant summers and cold, snowy winters. Shimla is connected to the city of Kalka by one of the longest narrow gauge railway routes in India. Shimla is approximately 115 km (71.4 miles) from Chandigarh the nearest major city, and 365 km (226.8 miles) from New Delhi, the national capital. The city is named after the goddess Shyamala Devi, an incarnation of the Hindu Goddess Kali.

GOA: TOURISTS’ PARADISE

2008-10-05T02:45:00.000-07:00
Official Website: www.goatourism.org
Beaches in Goa
Goa, in India, is world famous for its beaches. The Goan coast is lined with a number of beaches, each with a distinctive flavor, some have golden sand, some white, some have fine sand grains, some with coarse etc. But one thing common is the distinctive blue Arabian Sea and the swaying coconut and palm trees. Some of the photograph of some beaches are displayed here below: (See Beaches in Goa for more)
Dona Paula Beach : The beach is named after Dona Paula de Menzes, daughter of a viceroy (in colonial India), who threw herself off the cliff, when refused permission to marry a local fisherman, Gaspar Dias. The myth says that Dona Paula is entombed in the Cabo Chapel of the Raj Bhawan and is supposed to be seen emerging from the moonlit waves wearing only a pearl necklace. With the romance and myth attached to it, haunted by Dona Paula de Menzes, tourists throng the Dona Paula Beach.

NAINITAL : CITY OF LAKES

2008-10-05T02:38:00.000-07:00

Nainital is a lovely hill station surrounded by mountains on three sides. Nainital is also known as the city of lakes attracting millions of tourists every year worldwide. Nainital is set in a valley containing a pear-shaped lake, Naini Jheel named after goddess Naina, approximately two miles in circumference, and surrounded by mountains.
Official Tourism Wemsite: www.nainitaltourism.com

KAUSANI: SWITZERLAND OF INDIA

2008-10-05T02:31:00.000-07:00

Submitted by Anonymous
Official Website: gov.ua.nic.in/uttaranchaltourism/districts/almora/kausani.html
KAUSANI is known as the “Switzerland of India”. After my visit to Kausani, this summer, I find it as an ideal destination for those who seek to escape from the din and dust, hustle and bustle of big cities and wish to spend a quiet holiday in the lap of nature. Here, in the early morning, the birds sing for you to rise. Indeed, Kausani is a veritable heaven of beauty and it makes you feel that heaven has descended on this earth and the beauty of nature and heavenly calm of the place will inspire you to think differently. It is situated at a height of 1890 meters (from the sea level) in the Kumaon range of mountains. Kausani commands an unobstructed view of the Himalayan peaks. Several snow- capped peaks of Himalaya stand in a row, over 300 kms. in length, are visible from Kausani and enviable spectacle (if the climate favours you).

Every moment it changes its picturesque beauty. From the hotel rooms it is sometimes seen that the clouds are stagnant at the valley and the same is fully covered by the thick clouds which looks like a ocean of snow.
The peaks of Kumayun ranges spreads over the regions looks like paintings on a canvas with little variation of colors and stand like layers. These picks are sometimes covered by the clouds and nothing can be visible underneath. The thick white clouds comes down to the valley and stagnant there when you will feel like walking on those clouds cause they are below your level (look at picture below).
A village named “Gouri Gaon” in the down valley is now fully covered by clouds. Such incredible changing scenes of nature really takes us on to the cloud seven.

KHAJURAHO: TEMPLES OF LOVE

2008-10-05T02:22:00.000-07:00

One of the most celebrated manifestations of Indian architecture is to be found in a group of temples at Khajuraho in central India. Situated a hundred miles south-east of the town of Jhansi in the modern-day state of Madhya Pradesh.
Once a great chandela capital, Khajuraho is now a quiet village. The town of exotic temples, Khajuraho is one of India’s major honeymoon attractions. They are India’s unique gift to the world, representing a melody to life, which encompasses all emotions ranging from love, sex and joy. Life, in every form and mood, has been captured in stone, testifying not only to the craftsman’s artistry but also to the extraordinary breadth of vision of the Chandela kings.

The city was once the original capital of the Chandela Rajputs, a Hindu dynasty that ruled this part of India from the 10th to the 12th centuries. The Khajuraho temples were built over a span of a hundred years, from 950 to 1050. There were originally over 80 Hindu temples scattered over an area of about 8 square miles of which only 22 now stand in a reasonable state of preservation.

The temples of Khajuraho underwent destruction by early Muslim invaders. Following their abandonment, a number of them survived to be discovered by the British in the 19th century.
Thousands of artisans worked on stones and they created the most beautiful figures on the temples. Khajuraho statues of stones speak, sing, dance which seems to be alive and coming out of temple walls.
All the erotic sculptures are at the outer walls of the temples. But there is no erotic sculpture inside the temples. In fact, inside most of the temples there is nothing- just silence, a cool peaceful milieu, with the vibes of thousands of years of people meditating.

LUCKNOW: BADA IMAMBADA

2008-10-05T02:15:00.000-07:00

Submitted by Rajat Shetty on 5/10/08
Official Website: www.up-tourism.com

The Bada Imambada or Asafi Imambada was built by Nawab Asaf-ul-Daula in 1784 as a relief work during the terrible famine that year. Apart from the galleries in the interior, there is no woodwork anywhere. The interior vaulted hall, measuring 162 feet in length, 53 feet in width and 50 feet in height, is said to be one of the largest apartments of its kind in the world.
Sunset at Bada Imambada
From the outside, a staircase leads to a series of artfully designed labyrinths (bhoolbhulaiyan) where it is very easy to get lost. You can wander through the zigzag narrow galleries for hours without finding your way out! It/’s a very eerie sensation, moving towards the sunlit corridors that seem to be going out, only to find that you are actually deeper in the labyrinth. Most visitors therefore are only allowed inside with guides who are familiar with the maze.

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2008-10-05T02:07:00.000-07:00

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Durga Puja

2008-10-05T01:56:00.001-07:00

Durga Puja is the year’s largest Hindu festival in India in the eastern states of West Bengal, Orissa, Tripura, Assam, Jharkhand and some other parts. In fact this festival has no boundary. It is celebrated in every cities of India, in some form or the other. It is celebrated in all metro cities of India and abroad. In Bangladesh, Hindus celebrate Durga Puja. This year celebration starts from 6th Oct and will continue till 9 Oct 2008 (Saptami, Mahashtami, Nabami and Vijaya Dashami).
On the day of Mahalaya, (the day pitri paksha ends and matripaksha starts i.e. seven days before Durga puja) at the crack of dawn all will be waken up to the tune “Jaago Durga” - a song that tunes the mind to the festive spirit. Last 75 years this programme is being broad casted by All India Radio at early dawn (like Ajaan). Nobody can miss this invocation of Mother Goddess Durga by “Jaago Durga”. Its not a piece of music ; it’s part of spirituality and our culture. Many tried to change this invocation programme but all were utter failure. Our culture did not accept anything other than this.
Durga puja has many forms. In northern India it is celebrated as Dussehra and in western India as Navaratri (nine nights) and as Vijayadashami in south India. Durga Puja or Dussera or Vijayadashami is celebrated through out the country in autumn (Sharat) every year. Although it is a Hindu festival, religion takes a backseat on these festive days. Durga Puja in Bengal, particularly in Kolkata takes a shape of a carnival, where people from all walk of life and backgrounds, regardless of their religious beliefs, participate and enjoy themselves throughout the nights. The Durga puja is a festival of Bengal, Bengalis, therefore wherever Bengalis are there Durga Puja will be celebrated there. This is the reason behind the Globalization of Durga Puja and celebration in Europe and America.

In the epic Ramayana, Rama invokes the powerful goddess Durga in his battle against Ravana. Although she was traditionally worshipped in the spring, due to contingencies of battle, Rama had no other go but to invoke her in the autumn. This untimely invocation in autumn is known as “akaal bodhan”. This invocation has become more popular in the society and started to celebrate it every year in a grand manner. The reason may be because of Rama, Rama’s battle with Ravana and winning of the battle which marked as the victory of good forces over the evil forces.

Dussera or Navaratri or Vijayadashami in other parts of India are the celeration of homecoming of Rama with his wife Sita after his victory over Ravana ( the king of Lanka), the victory of the forces of Good over Evil forces. Burning of effigy of Ravana is the part of the celebration in some parts of India.

Durga puja has many angles and accordingly it is celebrated at different parts of India. Durga puja celebrated by Bengalis is having little difference from the others. Durga is the the Goddess of divine power against all evils. The story goes that Mahisasur (the Buffalo Demon), through years of praying, received blessing from Lord Brahma, that no power can kill him which means he is invincible. But once gaining this power he started ravaging the whole world and killing people. And finally he wanted to uproot the Gods too. The Gods, in dismay, combined their powers to create a beautiful maiden, and each placed his or her most potent weapon in one of her ten hands riding a lion. Then there was war between Durga and the Mahishasur (the Buffalo demon) and finally Durga Killed the demon. Rama, as per the epic Ramayana, invoked this powerful Goddess Durga before the battle with Ravana. The invocation of Goddess Durga, by Rama is celebrated every year by Bengalis for five days. It is celebrated to mark the victory of Good forces over the evil. But this Durga puja has some social angle too.

In the modern society, this social angle acts more strongly than any other to celebrate. Durga, daughter of Himalaya, and wife of Lord Shiva and they have four children. The Idol worshipped in the pandals (temporary place of worship) is seen Goddess Durga killing demon Mahishasur and her four children are standing by the side of hers. This coming with her children is seen like our married daughters’ home coming with her family. When the married daughter come to her parental home with her husband and children, parents welcome their daughter with tears of joy and there will be happiness, joy and celebration in the family. The Durga puja too traditionally viewed as home coming of Durga, a married daughter of ours to her home with her children. The Godliness and social cultures, customs have mixed up and have taken a shape, which is beyond explanation but to be felt.

Therefore, it is a matter of our culture to invite daughters and son-in-laws during this festive season and all married daughters wait to join their parents. Parents gift them with new dresses, saree etc etc and since they come in the festive season, try to gift their parents too. All these five days lot of sweet dishes and special dishes will be prepared as per choice of their daughter and son in law. Every body, children, young and aged people wear new dresses on these days. On these days, people move from pandal to pandal to see the art, theme of the idols and pandals throughout night. The whole city, small or big will be glittering with dancing colorful lights, sound of microphones and sound of vehicular traffic and their horn sounds. But vehicles move like snails as people throng to the streets and walk to enjoy the festive atmosphere. It takes a shape of carnival.

On fifth day when the idols goes out for immersion, all women come to the pandal to bid farewell with sweets, paan, sindoor. It creates an atmosphere like biding farewell to our own daughter when they leave for in-laws house for one long year. Women become emotionally charged with and tears rolls down from their eyes.

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2008-10-05T01:39:00.000-07:00

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Economy

2008-10-02T02:57:00.001-07:00

The Indian economy is going through a burgeoning growth phase, propelled by increased consumerism. Economy of India is rise and shining. In terms of purchasing power parity(PPP) India ranks fourth in the world, with only USA, China and Japan ahead of it(source: IMF). According to the World Bank estimates of 2006, in terms of GDP(nominal), India ranks twelfth in the world with a GDP of $906,268 million. India's GDP grew by 9.4 percent during 2006-07, which was an improvement over the already impressive GDP growth rate of 9 percent in the 2005-06 fiscal, and 7.5 percent in the 2004-05 fiscal. By 2025, India's economy is projected to be 60 percent of the size of the US economy. In 2006, the estimated per capita GDP in terms of purchasing power parity was $3800.Despite the significant increase in private enterprises in the recent times, thanks to liberalization of the Indian economy, some one-and-a-half decades back, we still remain, by and large, a mixed economy.

A mixed economy is an economic system where both free market forces and state control in pricing and production co-exist; where the means of production and services are controlled both by the private and the public sectors. In terms of employment, the economy of India has primarily been agrarian in its focus and character, and despite the continuing boom in the service sector in the recent times, it continues to remain so.

The Indian Culture of Agriculture

However, in terms of GDP it is fast losing ground to the services sector. As late as 2005, agriculture accounted for 60 percent of the country's labour force, though it constituted only 18.6 percent of the country's GDP. The 2006 estimates show that agriculture accounted for 19.9 percent of India's GDP, whereas during the same year, services sector accounted for 60.7 percent of India's GDP, with industry accounting for a share of 19.3 percent of GDP. Agriculture is no longer the backbone of Indian economy, as it was in the early years of its independence,and also in the sixties, seventies and eighties, but it is still the major source of livelihood in India, and as such must be given its due importance. India's primary agricultural produce are milk, tea, ginger, cashew nuts, black pepper, turmeric, wheat, rice, tobacco, oilseed, cotton, jute, sugar, sugarcane, groundnut, inland fish and cattle.

In the seventies, we experienced Green Revolution and Milk Revolution, which have positively influenced the agricultural climate in India and caused boom in Indian economy, but still much needs to be done. Indian agriculture is showing signs of revival, after a period of stagnation during the late nineties. During the tenth plan period(2002-07), India's agricultural production has shown an average annual growth rate of 2.5 percent. However, India's agricultural productivity can show further enhancement, and the gnawing poverty of the farmers can be reduced, if proper land reforms and technologies are being deployed in the Indian agriculture on a stringent basis, and if agricultural laborers are given interest-free credit, as a part of agricultural policy of the states.

Industrious India

Textiles, chemicals, food processing, steel, transportation equipments, cement, mining, petroleum, and software are some of the major industries, playing pivotal role in the economy of India. India's major mineral resources include coal (fourth-largest reserves in the world), iron ore, mica, manganese, bauxite, natural gas, thorium, chromite, limestone and petroleum. All these propel the industrial growth of Indian economy. India's industrial sector is also making successful inroads and is making its presence felt in the global arena. India had experienced an industrial growth of 11.3 percent in 2006-07 as compared to 8.2 percent in its previous fiscal. This was India's highest industrial growth since 1995-96.

The manufacturing sector accounts for more than 80 percent of industrial production in India, and its growth is an ample indicator of the industrial health of India. The manufacturing sector of India had grown from 6 per cent in 2002-03 to 12.3 percent in 2006-07. In March 2007, it experienced a growth of 14.1 percent- the highest growth of Indian manufacturing sector in a decade- as compared to 10.1 percent growth in the corresponding period of the last year. The fact that six Indian corporations have made it to the Fortune Global 500 list for the year 2006, is an ample reflection of resurgence of economy of India and its enviable progress in the industrial sector. The six corporations are Indian Oil Corporation Ltd., Reliance Industries Ltd., Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd., Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd., Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd. and State Bank of India Ltd.

IT's Story of Service

From the above-mentioned statistics, there is no denying the fact that India's service sector is experiencing an unprecedented growth, which is having direct impact on Indian economy and promising new vistas for the new-age professionals, but is also propelling India into the status of a knowledge superpower and taking economy of India to the road of advancement. Though services sector accounts less than one third of India's labour force, it generates more than half of India's output. As a result of its huge supply of skilled and cheap manpower, in this era of globalisation, where geography is fast getting translated into history, India has emerged as the number one destination for 'back office' operations of global conglomerates, which are outsourcing their customer services and technical support services to India. All this in turn has worked wonders for Indian economy.

The economy of India is growing leaps and bounds. The success story of the services sector in India, in the recent past, is built on the edifice of its skilled and cost-effective human resource in the software industry, whose services have great demand in the western markets. IT is making India a knowledge economy to reckon with. However, the recent BPO (business process outsourcing) revolution, whose most public face is the mushrooming of the call centers, the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors have also contributed to India's reputation as the leading exporter of skilled human resource to the west and bringing Indian economy into the limelight.

Besides the availability of skilled and fluent in English manpower and its consequent demand in the western markets(particularly the US markets), the impressive infrastructure in the services sector is another cause for its huge growth in India. All these have spearheaded an outsourcing boom in the west, with its main base being India. Indian services sector has come a long way since the days of early years of independence; it contributed only 15 percent to the Indian GDP in 1950, whereas in 2005, it contributed 53.8 percent to India's GDP.

Trade and Investment

India's balance of trade has also shown impressive performance since liberalization of Indian economy in 1991. Though the balance of payments(on the current account) continues to be negative, India's exports have been steadily rising since liberalization. India's foreign currency reserves in 2005-06 was an impressive $141 billion, which has further increased to $200 billion. These foreign reserves can in turn fuel India's growth and development. India's dependence on external assistance and commercial borrowings has showed welcome decreases since 1991-92, and since 2002-03, it has gradually been repaying these debts. India's exports stood at $125 billion during 2006-07, whereas the 2006 estimates of India's imports were $187.9 billion. India's major trading partners are the USA, China, the UAE, the UK, Singapore, Hong Kong and the EU. Besides skilled human resource, the main export items of India are textile products, gems and jewelry, engineering goods, chemicals and leather manufactures, whereas the main imported products of India are crude oil, gems, fertilizers, chemicals and machinery.

Economy of India is booming and also emerging as a major player in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI). In the pre-liberalization era, India's rigid FDI policies and increased red-tapism were a deterrent for the foreign investors, but since liberalization of its economy, India is becoming a preferred destination for foreign investors. India's recently liberalized FDI policy in 2005, allows up to a 100 percent FDI stake in ventures, which is expected to increase FDI inflows to a great extent. Furthermore, industrial policy reforms have substantially reduced the rigmarole of industrial licensing requirements, and removed a lot many restrictions, which have together facilitated easy access to foreign technology and foreign direct investments.

The Lacunae of Indian Economy

However, everything is not hunky dory with the Indian economy at present, despite its successes in many areas. The estimated inflation in 2006 was 5.3 percent, is quite disturbing for economy of India. The distribution of income is also quite unequal with top 10 percent of income group accounting for 33 percent of the income. Still more than 75 percent of Indians live at less than Rs.20 a day, and 17.59 percent of Indian population lives below the poverty line. The unemployment, though reduced, is still numbering in lakhs. Child labour, though illegal, is still very much rampant in India. Unless we address these daunting challenges on a war footing, Indian economy cannot reach the twenty-first century in true sense, despite its impressive infrastructure investments and successes in the IT revolution.

Cool Retreats:Haryana

2008-10-02T02:49:00.001-07:00

Morni Hills

    On the opposite hillside of the Pinjore valley, 45 kms from Chandigarh lie the Morni Hills, past the township of Panchkula. Past sleepy hamlets and cultivated terraces, one witnesses the calm altitudes of the Morni Hills, on chugging up a hill climb of above 3900 ft. with wilderness all around. Situated in the lower reaches of the Shivalik range, Morni is ideal for a holiday with its cool climate, beautiful natural vistas and myriad opportunities for trekking, rock-climbing and other adventure sports.
Best time to visit: September to March.

Cool Retreats:Gujrat

2008-10-02T02:48:00.001-07:00

Saputara

    The picturesque hill station is perched on a plateau at an altitude of about 1000 mtrs in the Dang forest area of the Sahyadari Range. It has a cool bracing climate the highest temperature even in the summer months not exceeding 28 deg C. Saputara is situated 160 kms from Surat. Legend has it that Lord Rama spent 11 years of his exile in these very forests. 'Saputara' means the 'abode of serpents' and a snake image on the banks of the river Sarpagana is worshipped by the 'adivasis' (tribals) on festivals like Holi.

Gira Falls

    1 km off the Saputara - Waghai Road, leads to a vast clearing where the picturesque Gira Falls emerging from the Kapri tributary can be viewed. An absolute must from June to November. Visitors can get refreshments from a small tea and snack stall. Picnic huts make it an ideal spot for relaxing and picnicking.

Cool Retreats:Jharkhand

2008-10-02T02:47:00.001-07:00

Hazaribagh

    The Hazaribagh plateau has Parasnath mountains on its eastern side. According to Jain tradition, no less than 23 out of 24 Tirthankaras (including Parsvanatha) are believed to have attained salvation in the Sammetasikhara of the Parasnath hills. The hill seems to have been an abode of Jains.

Netarhat

    The popular hill station, Netarhat, which is 156 kms from Ranchi is known as the Queen of Chotanagpur. Situated at a height of 3,700 ft. above sea level, Netarhat is a beautiful resort, during summer. Dense forests, serpentine roads, cool bracing breeze, moonlit nights all add to the beauty of the magnificent place. This place is an out of this world experience.

Ranchi

    Situated picturesquely in the heart of Chotanagpur, at an altitude of 2, 140 ft. above sea level, Ranchi is the nucleus of the region. Once the summer capital of Bihar, Ranchi is well known for its scenic attractions, waterfalls, barren rocks & hillocks.

Cool Retreats:Assam

2008-10-02T02:46:00.001-07:00

Haflong

    It is located 84 km away from North of Silchar, Assam. In the lush hilly terrain lies this lovely lakeside resort, which is Assam's only hill station. It is the name of variety of orchids, one of them being the rare Blue Vanda. Haflong Lake is situated in the heart of the hill station is a picturesque area. The Jatinga village unravel the mystery of the flocks of little migratory birds crashing to death on still dark nights.
Best Time To Visit: Aug - Nov

Umrongso / Umrongshu

    It is located at the borders of Assam and Meghalaya, 112-km away from Haflong. This hill station is blessed with the natural backdrop of North Cacher Hills region. For the sake of enjoying this alluring journey, one should travel from Haflong Hill to Umrangshu and from their via Jowai to Shillong hill. Near Umrangsu, there is a hot water spring (Garampani), which is believed to possess medicinal properties.

Cool Retreats:Arunachal Pradesh

2008-10-02T02:45:00.001-07:00

Along

    This hill resort is located 125 km away from Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh. It is one of the older towns of Arunachal Pradesh and headquarters of west Siang district. Set in a wide open valley where the Sipu river merges with Siyom against the backdrop of hills covered with snow during winters, it presents a panoramic view tot he delight of visitors. Along by night with hundreds of electric lights flickering and glowing over the broad valley looks like a wonderland from the top of the hills.
Best Time To Visit: April to Oct

Pasighat

    Pasighat and its surrounding areas abound in natural beauty and the place has rightly been called as a photographers delight. It is a land to have a rendezvous with Mother Nature in her purest form. The mighty Brahmaputra River, called the "Siang" here transcends down from Tibet and gives its name to the district. It flows through the entire length of the area until it descends down into the plains of Assam south of Pasighat town, where it meets Dihang and Lohit and becomes the Brahmaputra.
Best Time To Visit: Nov - April

Cool Retreats:Andhra Pradesh

2008-10-02T02:44:00.001-07:00

Anantagiri Hills

    The only hill station in Rajasthan, Mount Abu huddles among the rocks on a 1,220-m granite table mountain at the far southwestern end of the Aravalli hills. It is built around a lake and is surrounded by forested hills. According to a legend, the place derives its name from Arbuda, a serpent who descended to the spot to rescue Shivas bull, Nandi. Besides having all the features of a pleasant hill resort, Mount Abu is also well known for the famous Dilwara temples and many more archaeological remains. There are interesting treks and picnic spots, romantic royal retreats of the various erstwhile families of bygone Rajputana and some relics of the Raj period. The scenic landscapes include gigantic blocks of rocks in weird shapes, an array of coniferous trees, flowering shrubs, lovely lakes and the cool climate much in contrast to the arid environs of the state.

Araku Valley

    Araku Valley is Located 115 km away from Vizag district of Andhra Pradesh, Araku Valley is close to the Orissa State border. This place lures people with pleasant weather, hills and valleys. The natural beauty of this valley comes alive with its rich landscape. The area of the valley is roughly 36-km and the altitude is between 600 and 900 mtrs above the sea level.

Horsley Hills

    Located 144 km away from Tirupathi, Horsley hills are one of the famous hill resorts of Andhra Pradesh. It is named after WD Horsley, who was the collector of Cuddapah district. Horsley chose this spot for his summer residence. It is situated at an altitude of 1,265 m, which makes this place delightfully cool, with a max summer temperature of 32 C, and minimum of 20 C the shady slopes found in this are wooded with luxurious vegetation.

Beaches in Maharashtra

2008-10-01T06:28:00.001-07:00

Maharashtra is another coastal state of India with a good number of seaside resorts and beach resorts. If one has a special interest in forts and their history, check out the costal fort sites of Maharashtra, the perfect place to start on an enlightening heritage tour.

Juhu Beach - one of the largest and frequently visited tourist beaches of India on the shores of Arabian Sea, mostly famous as the best hangout zone of Mumbai city, famous Mumbai Bhelpuri and Kulfi.

Marine Drive - Chowpatty Beach - situated in the heart of Mumbai, rich historical link with the freedom movement, the spot where Lord Ganesha's images are immersed after the conclusion of the Ganesha Chaturthi festival.

Madh Island Beach - a popular picnic spot, dotted with exquisite bungalows and an urban aura, the most lavish beach parties held outside Mumbai.

Marve-Manori-Gorai - three beautiful and serene getaways. Marve is a quaint little fishing village, the nearest and the quietest of the three. Gorai and Manori, a little further away popular for all night beach parties.

Ganapatipule Beach - a beach with a religious flavour, one of the 'Ashta Ganapati' pilgrimage sites of India.

Murud - Janjira - a convenient base for the nearby beaches, former capital town of the Siddis of Janjira, popular for its alluring and spacious beach fringed with palm trees, two new beach sites of Kashid and Nandgaon nearby.

Baseein - served as an important shipbuilding center, the site of the Portuguese defeat at the hands of the Marathas, a similar backdrop to that of Goa, one of the best choices to take some time off from the hectic schedule of city life.

Dahanu-Bordi Beaches - a beautiful seaside in Thane district, vast stretch of unspoilt beach, coastline 17-km long, Chickoo (fruit) orchids.

Harnai Beach - A very secluded beach site usually the most visited hotspot for the people of Mumbai and Pune.

Kihim & Mandwa - a beautiful and clean beach, unspoilt and isolated ambience.

Vijaydurg - Sindhudurg - once naval-bases of the Great Chattrapati Shivaji, picturesque beaches, Vijayadurg fort built by Shivaji in the 17th century.

Shriwardhan - Harihareshwar - an irresistible beach site blessed with gentle winds, soft sands and inviting waters, attracts beach lovers in large numbers, a splendid place for seafood lovers

Tarkarli - a secluded golden beach with aquamarine waters.

Velneshwar - beach is clean and natural and is lined with coconut trees, swimming and other water sports, beach is free from rocks.

Vengurla - Malvan - a beach famous for its long stretch of shimmering sand, thick cashew, coconut, and jackfruit and mango groves, Vengurla rocks, known as Burnt Islands.

Beaches of India

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Andhra Pradesh    Andaman and Nicobar    Goa    Gujarat

Kerala    Karnataka    Lakshadweep Islands    Maharashtra

Orissa    Tamil Nadu     Pondicherry    Shell Beaches in India

Family Beaches of India    Beaches In Daman and Diu

Thousands of sun-deprived tourists visit India because it incredibly has the most diverse varieties of beaches anywhere in the world. Placid backwaters and lagoons, bays and rough lava-rocked seas, marine estuaries with fish, crashing surf, powdery golden sand or palm fringed shores - Incredible India has them all.

The West Coast with the Arabian Sea and the East Coast with the Bay of Bengal offer many a verdant vistas to the traveller. The coasts of India have their own seafood cuisine, relaxing spas, diving and water sports and great places to stay for a balmy holiday.

Kovalam undoubtedly is one of India's best sea resorts. The long coastline lined with swaying coconut palm trees dotted with an occasional fishing hamlet is fast developing into one of the world's finest string of beaches. The sea applauds the beach temple in Mahabalipuram, gloriously silhouetted against the spectrum of the seven colours in the sky. Puri, on the East Coast, is surely one of the world's most picturesque beaches. And then there is Digha, a three-hour drive out of Kolkata, a beautiful beach, splendid in its isolation.

The beach holiday to beat them all is in the Isles of Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshwadeep, where you can see the myriad colours of the flashy fish in the coral reefs from above the green waters.

Now fully developed as an international beach resort, Goa offers the best holiday villages on its beaches. Everything about Goa is spellbinding from the landscape dotted with Portuguese architecture, to the way of life that exudes an irresistible Old World charm. Anjuna or Calangute Beach, and Miramar Bay in Panjim are quieter. Beach vendors sell all manner of kitsch in Anjuna and Calangute. You can rent beach mats and mattresses, sunglasses, and the usual tourist paraphernalia. You can even get all sorts of spaghetti, German bread and Italian food. The beach at Calangute is rocky. At Anjuna the waters are gentle and offer opportunities for boat rides, sea scooter rides, spot-the-dolphins rides, and motorboat rides. Colva and Benaulim are quieter and less crowded than Anjuna. The Fort Aguada beach offers gorgeous views that merit a visit. Sinquerim and Candolim are also quiet beaches that afford anonymity.

Whether it's the isolated horizons of the Konkan Coast or the Arabian Sea; the golden sands or the water drenched seashores, every beach in India makes a picture perfect holiday destination.

Beaches by state have been classified Above and brief descriptions are provided.

Beaches in Tamil Nadu

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The beaches of Tamil Nadu, the southern most state of India have got a charm of their own. A must visit is the second longest beach in the world, Marina Beach. Do not miss the fantastic joyride along vast stretches of sand lashed by the Bay of Bengal. Once the place of relaxation and sun bathing, Elliot's Beach is now a favourite shooting location for Tamil movies in Chennai. Your beach vacation is South India won't be complete without visiting the beaches of Tamil Nadu; India's last coastal destination for rides on motorized boat or wind surfing.

Marina Beach, Chennai - one of the longest beaches in Asia, a major crowd puller, golden sand, good surfing opportunities, shimmering clear blue seawater.

Mahabalipuram Beach - primitive times port city located south of Chennai, stone carvings, caves Rock cut temples attract tourist from all over the world.

Rameshwaram Beach - one of the most popular pilgrimage centres of South India, serene beach, shallow waters, ideal site for swimming and sunbathing.

Kanyakumari Beach - The India's Land end, a unique beach site, three seas Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea surround it, breathtaking view of the sunrise and the sunset.

Covelong Beach - salubrious beach, nice breathing space, numerous fishing activities.

Beaches in Orissa

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The long coastal belt of Orissa offers some of the finest white sand beaches in the world. The Puri beach is the main venue for countless pilgrims, and makes one of the major religiously sacred beach side spots of India. The seaside beach resort of Chandipur is another favourite seaside holiday hideout among beach lovers. Gopalpur-On-Sea, an ancient seaport, is one of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches one should definitely visit, when taking touring Orissa's beaches.

Gopalpur On Sea - a favourite spot for sea and water sport lovers, golden beach, an ideal place to swim or laze around.

Chandipur Beach- famous beach resort, a unique sea beach, seawater recedes 5-kms during low tide

Konark Beach - world famous site of the most exquisite Sun temple,

Paradeep Beach - major seaport of India's trade activities, fine sea, evergreen forests, a huge estuary of the Mahanadi with islands and creeks, a good marine drive and beach, famous for its temple site of Lord Baladeva.

Puri Beach - one of the three major spots of the Orissa Golden Triangle, one of the four major holy places in India. Located on the shores of Bay of Bengal it is one of the finest beaches in the world.

Balighai Beach - casuarinas-fringed beach, tranquil atmosphere, Sea Turtle Research Centre.

Talasari - 8-km from Digha (in West Bengal) is the tranquil beach at Talasari.

Beaches in Pondicherry

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The beaches offer miles of nirvana in Pondicherry to all those in seach. Cool and soothing waters, clear and sparkling sands in splendid seclusion. Many resorts, cottages, cafes and bars command an excellent view of the sea.

Serenity Beach - virgin sands, ideal for a quick dip, a touch of the sun and a cool reprieve in the shade.

Plage Paradiso (Paradise Beach) - a stretch of tropical paradise, a relishing experience of the great outdoors, short, pleasant cruise into the sea, memorable sight of playful dolphins in natural habitat, horsing around.

Karaikal Beach - magnificent view of sun rise over the bay, Arasalar river reaching out to the sea, canoe or kayak in picture-book surroundings, a round of beach volley ball, armed with the angling gear, you can reel in a surprise.

Mahe Beach - luxuriant crop of tall palm, dotted with numerous fishing hamlets.

Lakshadweep Islands

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Lakshadweep Islands is known as the ultimate exotic diving location. 36 islands scattered like emerald green jewels in a sea popularly known as the Lakshadweep Island Group are also called "the Laccadives". They are located 400-kms away from the state of Kerala on the Indian mainland.

The beaches of Lakshadweep are a paradise for divers, but out of Lakshadweep's 36 Arabian Sea coral islands and islets, ten islands are inhabited, and just two, Bangaram and Kadmat, are open to visitors.

The most romantic feature of an island beach is the quiet and uninhabited atmosphere and that's where the beaches of Lakshadweep come into the picture. The palm-fringed beaches of Lakshadweep provide coolness even at in the hottest summer months, making this island region as a destination that can be travelled throughout the year.

Water Sports At Lakshadweep

Snorkelling in the shallow water around Bangaram Island is one of the favourite water sport activities of Lakshadweep beaches. There are dive centres on both the open islands. Wind surfing and Kayaking are the best day out water sport activities at the Bangaram Island.

Marine Life In Lakshadweep

With 36 coral islands, Lakshadweep's marine life is the most unique and distinctive island treasure found in India. The lagoons located at the Kadmat and Bangaram islands are home to a spectacular and unexplored world of marine life. Popularly known as the diver's haunt, the pure exotic beauty of soft and hard coral of Lakshadweep islands provides an invitation to this island beach paradise.

The Shell Treasure Of Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep Islands present a unique combination of wilderness experience on both land and sea. Beside the marine life, the one thing that can lure to the tropical beach island destination of Lakshadweep are the shells that are as exquisite and beautiful as the island itself. So how about choosing these islands as your next beach travel destination!

Beaches in Karnataka

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The coastline of Karnataka throws open to the visitors a picture perfect world of fascinating palm-fringed beaches. The 320-kms long coastline offers a perfect excuse for those who are looking for a vacation from their busy work schedule. The scenery and unspoilt charm of the beach areas make Karnataka beaches a must visit beach holiday destinations.

Karwar Beach - gentle waves, palm-laced beaches, silver sand, and calm, peaceful alleys..

Malpe Beach - popular picnic spot, pristine beauty and peaceful surrounding of its virgin beach, the St Mary's Island close by.

Maravanthe Beach - unique seaside town of Karnataka, a promising site for water sports and holidaying.

Bhatkal Beach - shimmering sea and rolling hills, favourite tourist spot, gorgeous temple perched on a hillock by the shore.

Murudeshwar Beach - some beautiful carvings and statues.

Beaches in Kerala

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Kerala beaches may be take a backseat because of the backwaters, but entire 900-km length of the Kerala coast is lined with sandy beaches, rocky promontories and coconut palms that definitely merit a visit in every tourist itinerary. Touring the beach sites of Kovalam can make any beach holiday a delightful one, as Kerala's beaches are renowned for the gentle surf and blue waters. Beach travel has never before been so exciting!

Kovalam Beach - small village along the shoreline, fabulous beaches, most popular is the Lighthouse Beach, the northern most Samudra beach, least affected.

Marari Beach - one of the local fishing villages, completely new to the holidaymaker, endless miles of superb sand beaches backed by swaying palms, virgin territory, local charm and traditional Kerala

Kumarakom Beach - cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, part of the Kuttanad region. The bird sanctuary spread across 14 acres is a favourite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. Birds include Egrets, darters, herons, teal, waterfowl, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian storks. The best way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary is a boat trip.

Alappuzha Beach - a popular hangout and relaxation spot, around 140 years old pier that extends in to the sea, lagoons, vast lakes and numerous fresh water rivers, Alappuzha is a natural wonderland.

Beypore Beach - prominent ports and fishing harbours of ancient Kerala, also known for its ancient ship building industry.

Varkala Beach - the most popular beach resorts in Kerala, mineral water springs with medicinal properties, also an important Hindu pilgrimage centre.

Fort Kochi Beach - historic fort, leisurely walk through the lanes of the city to learn about eventful colonial history and European regimes who ruled it.

Kappad Beach in Kerala - Vasco da Gama landed on its shores on 27th May 1498 with 170 men in three vessels. A pillar with inscription "Vasco Da Gama landed here, Kappakkadavau in the year 1498" stands on the beach. The beach here is very calm with a stretch of rocks projecting into the sea.

Dharmadam Island - beautiful beach island, coconut palms, green bushes, breathtaking sight. Permission is required to enter this privately owned island.

Ezhimala Beach - a picturesque site with a hilly backdrop, carved Stone Pillars, an ancient Burial chamber and an ancient Cave can be seen at the foot of the hills, famous for medicinal herbs.

Mopila Bay - natural fishing harbour with quite a modernised fishing harbour look, built with assistance under the Indo-Norwegian pact, ruined fort and temple.

Muzhappilangad Beach - one of the longest beaches in Kerala, also the only drive-in beach in India.

Pathiramanal Beach - island beach on the Backwaters, a favourite natural hub of hundreds of rare migratory birds that reside over here from different parts of the land.

Payyambalam Beach - beautiful beach sites, surfing in calm and peaceful waters.

Sankhumugham Beach - breathtaking sunset, a favourite haunt of sunset watchers.

Tanur Beach - coastal fishing town believed to be visited by Francis Xavier in the year 1546 AD.

Thangassery Beach - a seaside village of historic importance, ruins of an old Portuguese Fort and churches built in the 18th century. 144 feet high Thangaserry Lighthouse open to visitors from 1530-1730 hours every day.

Thirumullavaram Beach - beautiful beach filled with coconut palms, ideal for an early morning walk.

Beaches in Gujarat

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The best way to start touring the beach journey of Gujarat is from the nearby island destination of Diu. Diu has got a laid back atmosphere and is blessed some of the most scenic beaches of situated on the west coast of India. Gujarat also boasts with the longest coastline of India, with a stretch of the 1600-kms.

Ahmedpur Mandvi Beach - lazing in the beach, swimming, or enjoying water sports, lovely blue waters, lots of bird life, sandy beaches and colourful fishing hamlets.

Beyt Dwarka - a popular pilgrimage centre, always thronged with pilgrims and tourists, some fine stretches of beach, shore birds gather in large numbers along the coast at dusk.

Somnath & Veraval Beach - famous temple and busy port town and fishing centre

Chorwad - a small fishing village and a delightful beach with its resort on the sunny coast of Gujarat, perfect for long beach walks.

Gopnath Beach - summer home of Maharaja Krishna Kumar Singhji of Bhavnagar, favourite beach site of Gujarat, breathtakingly beautiful sea coast, spectacular limestone cliffs, great views, sea breezes and colourful bird life.

Beaches in Goa

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The world famous beaches of Goa are the highlights of travel in this state, making Goa the premier beach vacation destination. The first beach stop over in Goa is Anjuna beach also famous for its flea market and rave parties, then the Baga and Dona Paula beaches that can make any beach holiday a memorable one. 100-km long coastline gives an enthusiastic beach lover an opportunity to discover new secluded beach sites every day.

Anjuna Beach - fluorescent painted palm trees and infamous full moon parties, 8 km west of Mapusa, most "alternative", the dancing and lying on the beach, famous flea market.
Baga Beach - watch the sun go down in isolation, 10-km west of Mapusa, basically an extension of Calangute wooded headland.
Dauna Paula- Fine view of the Marmagao Harbour nestled on the south side of the headland that divides the Zuari and Mandovi estuaries, former fishing village, today's commercialised beach resort, idyllic spot to relax and sunbathe.
Calangute Beach - Goa's busiest and most commercialised resort. During the 70's and 80's this peaceful fishing village became the favourite haunt of the hippies.
Benaulim Beach - sea is safe for swimming generally jellyfish-free, village area near beach side boasts a few serviceable bars and restaurants, various culinary delights of the seafood, most succulent, competitively priced seafood in Goa.
Cavelosim Beach - last major settlement in southwest Salcete, visit to Mabor, South Goa largest, and most obtrusive, package tourist enclave.
Chapora Beach - a lot busier than most north coast villages, dependent on fishing and boat building, many regular cafes and restaurants
Condolim Beach - good options to stay offering better value, a good first stop to head North.
Bogmolo Beach - a small-scale beach resort, reasonably safer site for swimming, quite good eating joints and shopping options.
Miramar Beach - just 3-km away from the capital city of Panjim.
Pololem Beach - a favourite beach destination, crescent shaped bay, swaying curtain of coconut palms, irresistibly photogenic, beautiful beach huts.
Vagator Beach - cool rural area, no big shopping complexes.
Varca Beach - community of Christian fisher folk, palm thatched long houses, grassy dunes.

Beaches in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

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Andaman & Nicobar the most unique Island state of India with beaches and coastal areas still untouched and unspoilt makes it an ideal beach holiday destination. Even if there aren't many beach resorts present on these tropical islands, still the climate and isolation has given these islands a prominence among the best tropical beach islands and a paradise of exquisite marine life.

Corbyn's Cove And Chirya Tapu - picturesque beach, ideal for sea bathing and sun-basking.

Radhnagar & Vijaynagar Beach - real exposures of unpolluted nature of Andman & Nicobar Islands for an environment lover.

Harminder Bay Beach - beautiful beaches 100-km from Port Blair connected by Inter Island shipping services.

Karmatang Beach - turtle nesting ground being developed as tourist complex in northern part of Middle Andaman

Ramnagar Beach - sandy beach situated at Diglipur Islands connected by two daily boat services from Mayabunder and from Port Blair twice a week.

Beaches in Andhra Pradesh

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With nearly 1000-kms of naturally enriched coastline, out of the twenty-three districts of Andhra Pradesh, eight are have direct access to the sea. The beaches of Andhra's coast are pure, unspoiled and ideal for a beach holiday. The sands soaked with golden sunshine are ideal for travellers seeking a healthy tan in the most natural surroundings.

Bheemunipatnam Beach - matchless for its beauty, safest beach sites in Andhra Pradesh state, finest sea resorts of India, known as Bheemli.

Ramakrishna Beach - very picturesque site contrast from the busy city life of Vishakhaptnam.

Manginapudi Beach - must visit place with some of the most mesmerizing scenic sites, a historic port city, popular health resort, ideal picnic spot in Andhra Pradesh.

Mypad Beach - one of the most luring sites for beach lovers.

Rishikonda Beach - golden, unspoilt beach ideal for water sports lovers, especially swimmers, water skiers, and wind surfers.

Vodarevu Beach - a nice weekend hideout in tranquil settings.

Beaches in Daman and Diu

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Devka Beach : A sandy, shady & rocky beach.

Jampore Beach : The picturesque shores of the Jampore beach in Moti Daman are situated at the southernmost point of the district.

Diu Beach : 125 kms from Junagadh, Portuguese colonial period architecture, churches, public buildings, bungalows, clean wide roads, neat clean beaches etc.

Family Beaches of India

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Planning on taking that long delayed family vacation, then take your family to the fun filled site - a beach. Beach is the spot to look forward to if you want a family get together. Beaches provide a nice change from the hectic everyday life and if you are looking for a change, then hop on to the nearest beach site with your family and catch up with the lost time.

Some of the best beach resort options include Juhu, Marine Drive and Chowpatty Beaches in Mumbai. Popular as snack joints and hangout zones of Mumbai, these beach sites provide best options for evening walks on the soft sand of the sea. Kovalam Beach in Kerala provides a refreshing change from the other over crowded beach sites of India. Kovalam stands apart from the rest of the Indian beaches because of its lavish green landscape and the coconut trees along the coast. A great feast for the eyes!

With beautiful blue waters Marine and Elliot's Beaches provide a pleasant sightseeing experience to visitors and the pony rides will always delight the kids. Muttukadu is an ideal picnic spot because of its beach. Tamil Nadu Tourist Development Corporation runs a Boat House at Muttukadu, where facilities for boating and wind surfing are available for the pleasure of beach buffs.

Puri, and Konark Beaches in Orissa also make perfect beach destination for some exciting family vacation. The tourist inflow on these beach sites still mainly includes pilgrims, besides being important temple sites of India, the waters of these beaches are prefect whether you want to take a holy dip or go for a swim.

Among the beach areas of Andhra Pradesh, the Vishakhapatnam beaches are the beat known for its picturesque natural environs and long beach stretches. The Ramakrishna Beach and the Lawson's Bay are foremost places for fun and relaxation one looks for at a beach site. Near Vishakhapatnam is Bheemunipatnam, one of the safest beaches on this part of the East Coast.

Other Family Beaches:

    Juhu Beach, Mumbai, Maharashtra

    Marine Drive/Chowpatty Beach, Mumbai, Maharashtra

    Marina Beach, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

    Gopalpur-On-Sea, Orissa

    Chandipur Beach, Orissa

    Puri Beach, Orissa

    Konark Beach, Orissa

    Kovalam Beach, Kerala

Shell Beaches in India

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The entire coastline of Andhra Pradesh is a good place for a shell collector's exploration tour, starting from Bheemunipatnam near Vishakhapatnam down to Mypad In Nellore District.

Situated 8-kms away from Vizag is another golden, unspoilt beach, Rishikonda, which attract tourists to visit its picturesque beach surroundings and make most of their beach holiday. The beaches of Pondicherry also provide a virgin setting; the golden yellow sand of the beach area is unpolluted, making this place and noteworthy pleasure and relaxation spot.

Mangalore's two beaches Taneerbhavi and Panambhoor are a delight to visit, or check out the coastal pilgrimage beach centres of Ganapatipulle in Maharashtra. One is rewarded with a varied choice of shells over here. Beyt Dwarka in Gujarat has some fine stretches of beach, though crowded by pilgrims; you can always find a quiet spot to relax.

Malpe in Karnataka is another coastal pilgrimage beach centres with a sheltered harbour making it a quiet beach retreat, just 6-kms away from Udupi, the temple town, renowned for a fascinating idol of Lord Krishna. Close to Malpe is Ullal, yet another beach resort, the silvery beaches of which command breathtaking views of the sunset, especially, when viewed through the Casuarina groves. Marwanthe beach is a very family kind of beach where one can come to in the evenings to just relax and let the smooth breeze caress you and tease your hair.

Still, the foremost shell collector's destinations are the islands of Lakshadweep and Andaman & Nicobar. The natural beauty has stayed unspoiled, as each island and beaches of Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar has existed since time immemorial, with little influence from the outside world.

Other Shell Beaches:

    Calangute Beach, Goa

    Beaches of Andaman & Nicobar Islands

    Beaches Of Lakshadweep Islands

    Diu Beach, Gujarat

    Benaulim Beach, Goa

    Ganapatipule, Maharahstra

    Bheemunipatnam Beach, Andhra Pradesh

    Malpe Beach, Karnataka

Ceremonial Changing of the Guard

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Ceremonial Changing of the Guard

The President's Bodyguard

The Army Guard

The Ceremony-Every Saturday

The Ceremony-Every Saturday

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See img.:http://presidentofindia.nic.in/images/weekpgm.jpg

THE ARMY GUARD

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The motto of the Regiment, 'ASAM VIKRAM' (Unique Valour), symbolizes the aspirations and achievements of the Regiment. The Regimental emblem, The Rhinoceros, embodies the essence of the Regiment and its troops; toughness, martial ardour, usual calmness and good humour changing to a frightening aggressiveness and determination when threatened or aroused. From this comes the Regimental war cry - "RHINO CHARGE", which makes the ground tremble, and epitomises the ethos of the Regiment.

As part of 20 Infantry Division, the Battalion battled against stiff enemy opposition in the Eastern Front in 1971, and affected the surrender of the Nator Garrison of the Pakistan Army. 41 Officers, 198 Junior Commissioned Officers, 5500 other ranks and 1865 Para Military Forces along with 09 tanks, 25 Artillery Guns and 10773 Small Arms laid down their arms in front of the Battalion on 17 Dec 1971. The Battalion has not looked back after it tasted first blood, and has time and again proved its mettle in treacherous mountains, hostile high altitude areas, burning deserts and the sensitive Line of Control. True to its reputation, the Battalion gave a superlative account of its courage and humanity in Counter Insurgency duties in J&K, and the Battalion was the proud recipient of the Northern Army Commander's "Unit Appreciation".

In keeping with the Battalion's glorious past, it was accorded the honour to take over as the "Ceremonial Army Guard Battalion" of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India.

THE PRESIDENT'S BODYGUARD

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The President's Bodyguard (PBG), as is known today, was raised in 1773 at Benares by the then Governor, Warren Hastings. Since being first christened as 'The Guard of Moguls' in 1773, the Regiment has had various titles viz. 'The Governor General's Bodyguard (GGBG)' in 1784, 'The Viceroy's Bodyguard' in 1858, the '44th Divisional Reconnaissance Squadron GGBG' in 1944, before getting back it's old title 'The Governor General's Bodyguard' in 1947. With India becoming a Republic on 26 January 1950, the Regiment came to be known as - "The President's Bodyguard".

The Regiment was formed as a select Cavalry Unit, primarily for the personal and battlefield security of the Governor, and later Governor General, who often had to personally lead his forces into battle. The Raising Charter clearly spelt out the role of The PBG, namely - "To act as Bodyguard to the Governor in peace and to accompany him as Commander-in-Chief in battle". However, continued engagement of the British Forces overseas in the Nineteenth Century saw the operational role of PBG get redefined.

This unique band of select troops saw active service all over the Indian peninsula, as well as overseas in Egypt (1801-1802), in Java (1811), in Burma (1824-1826 and 1886), and in the Middle East and Mesopotamia (1914-1918). In 1944, after mechanization in World War II, they trained as paratroopers to form part of the 44th Indian Airborne Division for the invasion of Malaya.

Post Independence, the PBG repeatedly proved its martial prowess. In 1962, its armoured cars were deployed for the Defense of Chushul at heights of over 14,000 feet. The Regiment saw action in "Operation ABLAZE" (1965) in the Western Theatre, with the Indian Peace Keeping Force in Sri Lanka (1988-1989) and with the Indian United Nations Contingents in Somalia, Angola and Sierra Leone. The valiant Troopers of the PBG have also left their indelible mark in the world's highest battlefield, the Siachen Glacier where detachments of PBG serve till today.

The soldiers of PBG today are adept at ceremonial punctilio, trained Combat Paratroopers and Armoured Vehicle Crewmen. Honed to perfection in diverse combat skills, the PBG personnel have proven their worth in battle, as well as in mounted tourneys and equestrian skills. This elite body of troops is the senior most Regiment of the Indian Army, whose distinction, is in its position as 'Right of the Line' on all official and ceremonial occasions.

CEREMONIAL CHANGING OF THE GUARD - An Unforgettable Spectacle

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'Changing of the Guard' is a military tradition whose origins are lost in antiquity. From time immemorial, guards and sentries at Forts, Palaces and Defence Establishments change periodically to enable a fresh body of soldiers take charge.

Come Saturday and the Forecourt of the grand Rashtrapati Bhavan- the official residence of the President since Independence, resounds to the hoof beats of horses and the tune of soul-lifting music. Every Saturday, it's time for the Ceremonial Changing of the Guard - a traditional ceremony in which Infantry Army Guards and the President's Bodyguard, in spectacular red, riding well - bred horses, change guard with clock-work precision, demonstrating time honoured military ethos and discipline of both animal and man. This tradition of Ceremonial Changing of Guard dates back to the raising of the President's Bodyguards with 50 handpicked Horsemen in 1773, then called 'The Guards of Moguls'.

The 40-minute Ceremony includes inspection of the New Guard, nomination of sentries, a formal march to take post and an exchange of compliments by the Guards. A formal military ritual, the Ceremony is a coming together of smartly-attired soldiers of the impressive Army Guard and statuesque President's Bodyguard Troopers, astride their caparisoned, sleekly muscled, powerful and exquisitely groomed steeds. The regal bearing and hard training of the noble mounts of the President's Bodyguard, greatly enhanced by their superb ceremonial equipage, heavily embroidered saddle cloths, ceremonial bridles and bits, lend a regal dignity and spectacle of incomparable colour and pageantry at this Ceremonial Parade. A zestful Band and the impressive arrival and dispersal of the guard, makes the Ceremony an unforgettable spectacle.

The New Guard marches from Rashtrapati Bhavan to the Dominion Columns lining the two wings of the Central Secretariat in perfect military tandem. After inspection, Officers of the guards take salute, and march past smartly. Upon entering the driveway, just inside the Iron Gate of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the New Guard takes position alongside the Old Guard for formal salutation. After exchanging salutes, the sentries of the Old Guard hand-over the keys to the New Guard. Sentries of the New Guard on duty take post and the remainder troops march off to the tune of "Saare Jahan Se Achcha".

The Ceremony-Every Saturday

The Palace on Wheels

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Introduction

Travel Rajasthan by palace on wheels and witness the history unfolding itself gracefully at Rajasthan. Rajasthan is also famous for its hospitality. The chivalrous men with long moustaches and their brightly coloured turbans and the attractive ladies in their resplendent ghaghra-cholis are always ready to go out of their way to make you feel special. The traditional music and dance are genuinely captivating.

The Palace on Wheels tours makes you experience all the luxuries worthy of the affluent Indian maharajas of yore. Exuberance and extravagance are the key words. This royal journey by palace on wheels is a first-hand experience of the lavish lifestyles of the Indian kings. The décor, food and hospitality speak of sheer luxury and opulence. So relax, enjoy and indulge yourself!

The ornate passenger coaches were originally meant to be the personal Railway coaches of erstwhile rulers of the princely states of Rajputana, Gujarat, the Nizam of Hyderabad and the Viceroy of British India. The Indian Railways did not use these coaches after Independence in normal passenger trains on account of the very rich and traditional interiors. The coaches were very old and were meant to run on meter gauge. As a result they were parked in different yards and cited as part of heritage that was far too ornate, old and historical to be of any practical use. They remained in this state for a quarter of a century until 1981-82 when the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation, the Indian Railways and the Tourism Department of the State launched them as a special heritage tourist train to provide a unique memorable experience to the tourists visiting Rajasthan.

The name "Palace on Wheels" (POW) was derived from the royal background of the coaches. The Train undertook its inaugural trip on 26th January 1982. Only five promotional trips were run for the purpose of familiarization and publicity. It started to roll on its regular operations from October 1982 and undertook 13 weekly and 13 short trips.

The original coaches that belonged to the rulers of the erstwhile princely states of India become unworthy for the smooth rail journey after their continuous running for 9 years from its inception. This was replaced in 1991 by the air-conditioned meter gauge train whose interiors were done in accordance to the aesthetics of the old saloons. This train was fabricated at the Integral Coach Factory of Madras.

In order to further increase the amenities on the train and due to over all gauge conversion in the state, a new broad gauge Palace on Wheels was constructed with the same amenities and facilities like its predecessors - 14 Saloons that are now inter connected, 2 Restaurant-cum-Kitchen cars, 01 Bar-cum-Lounge and 4 Service cars. The train also has a well-appointed lounge, library and bar.

Apart from this other services include - laundry services at Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur, Foreign Exchange, Doctor on call.

The Saloons

The names of the saloons are based on the princely states of Rajasthan - Jaipur, Jodhpur, Alwar, Bundi, Kota, Jhalawar, Dungarpur, Dholpur, Bharatpur, Jaisalmer, Sirohi, Bikaner, Udaipur and Kishangarh.

The decor of each saloon has highlighted the cultural ethos of the state, represented through the use of furniture, handicrafts, paintings and furnishings. The ceiling in the lounge is of particular interest. Each coupe is different but the over all ambience of the decor of the saloons has been taken care of to provide continuity. Each saloon has cream yellow colour on its exterior walls and bears the Coat of Arms (logo) of the erstwhile princely states.

Each saloon has 4 coupes (sleeping rooms) with attached bath and toilet. In every saloon, there is one saloon captain and 2 attendants to look after the personal needs of its guests. Each saloon has a mini pantry properly equipped to provide ready tea/coffee and snacks.

Services On Board

14 saloons attached with bath and shower.

An additional upper berth is available in case 3 persons wish to travel together.

Each Saloon is equipped with a Lounge.

Separate Dining Car offering Continental and Indian Cuisine and snacks with the Chef's special
variety of the day.

Separate Lounge-cum-Observation car with a Bar.

Each cabin has its own wash basin with mirrors and sockets for shavers and dryers.

Saloon captain in each Saloon for personalized service.

Sound system for announcements and music.

Laundry service is available in Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur.

First aid facilities and foreign exchange counter is also provided.

A well stocked bar serving Indian liquor and variety of scotch, wine and cocktails.

Games for children.

A souvenir shop "The Bazaar" in the Lounge where souvenirs and gift items are sold bearing the
insignia of the POW.

The Itinerary

Day 1

Wednesday
Departure from Delhi Cantonment Railway Station
Evening Tea and Dinner on Board 17:45 hrs

Day 2

Thursday
Arrival at Jaipur. Breakfast on Board 06:00 hrs
Departure by coach for sightseeing of Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort,
Elephant Ride 08:00 hrs
Lunch at a Palace Hotel 13:00 hrs
Visit City Palace and Jantar Mantar Observatory 14:30 hrs
Depart for Jaisalmer 17:30 hrs
Dinner on Board 20:00 hrs

Day 3

Friday
Arrival at Jaisalmer. Breakfast on Board 06:15 hrs
Sightseeing of Fort and Havelis 08:30 hrs
Return to Palace on Wheels for Lunch 13:00 hrs
Visit Sand Dunes and enjoy a Camel Ride 17:00 hrs
Dinner and Cultural Programme in Jaisalmer 19:30 hrs
Depart for Jodhpur 23:00 hrs

Day 4

Saturday
Arrival at Jodhpur. Breakfast on Board 08:00 hrs
Sightseeing of Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada 09:00 hrs
Lunch at a Palace Hotel 13:00 hrs
Depart for Sawai Madhopur 15:30 hrs
Dinner on Board 20:00 hrs

Day 5

Sunday
Arrival at Sawai Madhopur. Breakfast on Board 06:30 hrs
Visit to Ranthambhore National Park 07:00 hrs
Depart for Chittaurgarh 11:00 hrs
Lunch on Board 13:00 hrs
Arrival at Chittaurgarh 15:30 hrs
Sightseeing of Fort 16:00 hrs
Dinner on Board 20:00 hrs

Day 6

Monday
Breakfast on Board 06:30 hrs
Sightseeing of Udaipur 07:30 hrs
Lunch at a Palace Hotel 12:30 hrs
Depart for Bharatpur 20:00 hrs
Dinner on Board 20:00 hrs

Day 7

Tuesday
Arrival at Bharatpur. 06:00 hrs
Visit the Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary 07:30 hrs
Breakfast at Forest lodge 09:30 hrs
Sightseeing of Fatehpur Sikri 10:30 hrs
Lunch on Board 13:00 hrs
Sightseeing of Taj Mahal and Agra Fort 15:00 hrs
Depart for Delhi 20:00 hrs
Dinner on Board 20:00 hrs

Day 8

Wednesday
Arrive Delhi Cantonment Railway Station 06:00 hrs
Breakfast on Board 08:00 hrs
Tour Ends 09:00 hrs

Note - Venues for Lunch and Dinner are subject to change as per management's decision, without prior notice.

DEPARTURES EVERY WEDNESDAY

BEGINNING SEPTEMBER TILL THE LAST WEDNESDAY OF APRIL

Tips for Passengers

Climate : Varies from 20° to 35° C between October to March.

Clothing Recommended: Light tropical/light woolens.

Carry some sunglasses, caps and parasols and wear comfortable walking shoes. Its also good to have one pair of canvas shoes for visiting sand dunes / jungle during the tour.

Tariff in USD per person per night

Plan                           October 2004 - March 2005    September 2004 & April 2005
Single Occupancy                      485                                        395
Double Occupancy                    350                                        295
Triple Occupancy                      285                                        240

Plan                           October 2005 - March 2006    September 2005 & April 2006
Single Occupancy                     485                                         395
Double Occupancy                   350                                         295
Triple Occupancy                     285                                         240

NOTE : 10% surcharge shall be levied on departure during Christmas / New Year.

Children below 5 years permitted free. Children below 12 years charged at only 50% of the rate. Valid only if accompanied by parents.

Indian passengers can pay in equivalent Rupee amount at the exchange rate prevalent at the time of payment.

Tariff is inclusive of :

Travel

Catering

Conducted Sightseeing

Entrance fees at monuments/parks/palaces

Cultural Programs

Elephant Ride at Amber Fort

Camel Ride in Jaisalmer

Boat Ride in Udaipur

Rickshaw Ride in Bharatpur

Tariff does not include :

Video camera fees

Liquor

Expenses of personal nature like laundry etc

The Deccan Odyssey

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Introduction



The Deccan Odyssey is a joint venture between the Indian Railways and the Government of Maharashtra represented by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC). The train showcases the tourism assets of Maharashtra, the grandeur of Konkan coast, the art, culture, the heritage of Maharashtra as well as local arts, crafts and cuisine of the state during the journey. It takes 80 passengers on a tour of the Konkan region, including Goa, and northwestern Maharashtra. It will halt at Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Goa, Pune, Aurangabad, (for Ajanta and Ellora) and Nashik. On the itinerary will be visits to forts, other historical places, museums, beaches and boat rides in the backwaters.



As the wind whispers through the halo of legends crowning the land of the mighty Marathas, a lone majestic whistle blows its salutation of honour as it gracefully traverses this land of fantastic fantasy. Welcome to the mesmerizing Maharashtra experience aboard the luxurious Deccan Odyssey. The weeklong Deccan Odyssey tour includes several exotic destinations covering the vast expanse of Maharashtra and a pinch of Goa. Experience the finest and the best of train journeys of the world. The Deccan Odyssey is much more than a mere luxury train cruise. It's a 'classical odyssey' of time beyond the realms of the present. Welcome aboard!

The Itinerary

Day 1 - Wednesday
Departure Mumbai In the evening depart from CST Terminus. Wine and dine in the luxurious comforts of this train and whistle off on your royal voyage.

Day 2 - Thursday: Jaigadh - Ganapatipule - Ratangiri
Morning arrival at Bhoke railway station. Reach Rai Bhatgaon Jetty by a/c bus for Backwater Cruise up to the historical Jaigad Fort. Thereafter travel by road to Ganapatipule. Free time & lunch at Ganapatipule beach resort. Noon board the bus for sight seeing tour of Ratnagiri town. Visit the Ratnadurg Fort, Lokmanya Tilak Smarak and free time in Ratnagiri Bazar. Board the train at Ratnagiri railway station.

Day 3 - Friday: Sindhudurg - Tarkarli - Sawantwadi
Morning arrival at Sindhudurg Nagari railway station. Departure by a/c bus to Malvan Jetty to see the Sindhudurg Sea Fort. From jetty proceed to Tarkarli beach resort for lunch & free time. After lunch Back Water Cruise through the Tarkarli creek up to Kalse Jetty followed by visit to Sawantwadi town by bus to witness fabulous lacquer handicrafts, paintings and furniture at the "Shilpagrama" in the town. Late in the evening board the train at Sawantwadi railway station.

Day 4 - Saturday: Goa
Morning arrival at Karmali railway station in Goa. The most frequented tourist spots in India. Board the bus to reach Old Goa to witness; Basilica De Born Jesus, Se Cathedral, Se Cathedral and the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, that began as a mosque but now is an archaeological museum for Goan antiques. Proceed to Panjim by bus. Free time for short walk in city and bazaar followed by lunch at Fort Aguada Beach Resort. After lunch visit the Dona Paula & 250 years old House. Late in the evening board the train from Madgaon railway station.

Day 5 - Sunday: Pune
Morning arrival at Pune, the Erstwhile Capital of Maharashtra. Board the bus to visit the Mahatma Phule Mandai, the old central market, Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, Sir David Sasoon Synagogue built in 1867, the Osho International Commune. Lunch & free time at Hotel Le Meridian. Thereafter visit the Tribal Museum, Aga Khan Palace, a place where Mahatma Gandhi was incarcerated during freedom struggle presently converted in to a Museum dedicated to Gandhi family. Witness a Sound and Light Show at Shaniwarwada. Late in the evening board the train from Pune railway station.

Day 6 - Monday: Aurangabad
Morning arrival at Aurangabad railway station. Proceed by road to witness the historical Daulatabad Fort, Ellora Caves, a World Heritage site. Lunch and Cultural programme at Hotel Taj. After lunch visit to the Shivaji Museum, Aurangabad Caves No. 7 & 8, Bibi-ka-Maqbara. Free time for shopping Paithani, Himroo, Bidriwork from showrooms for a perfect memorabilia. Late in the evening board the train from Aurangabad railway station.

Day 7 - Tuesday: Ajanta & Nashik
Morning arrival at Jalgaon railway station. Board the bus to reach Fardapur resort. After break fast proceed to visit renowned Buddhist caves of Ajanta a World Heritage Site. At noon board the train at Bhusawal Railway Station. Proceed to Nashik. Lunch on-board. Arrival at Nashik railway station. Departure to visit Panchawati Ghat and Sula Winery Yard. Wine and dine at the winery yard. Late in the night board the train at Nashik railway station.

Day 8 - Wednesday: Morning arrival at CST Trminus
Journey Ends. Enjoy the breakfast on board as the sun rises over the commercial capital of India. The royal journey is over, the memory of which, will live on forever.

Other Information

Climate Varies from 8o C to 30o C between September to March and in April it is around 35 o C.

Clothing recommended Light tropical/light woollens.

The Deccan Odyssey Tour starts on every Wednesday of the week* from Mumbai.

Months of Operation (October till April next year)

Train thus does not operates in the months of May, June, July, August and September.

The Tariff

From October 2004 to March 2005
Single occupancy US$ 485
Double occupancy US$ 350
Triple occupancy US$ 285
Presidential Suite US$ 700

For the month of April 2005
Single occupancy US$ 395
Double occupancy US$ 295
Triple occupancy US$ 240
Presidential Suite US$ 550

Half fare for children between 5 and 12 years.

Rates Subject to change without notice.
Any leg of minimum of 3 nights subject to availability will be given at the above-mentioned rates. Thus Mumbai-Goa and Goa-Mumbai sector will be sold as available segments to clients. If however, the client undertakes the day programme at Goa & Mumbai, an extra $ 100 USD per person will be charged.

Indian passengers can pay in equivalent Rupee amount against US $ at the exchange rate prevalent at the time of payment.

Tariff is inclusive of travel/catering/conducted sight-seeing/ entrance fee at Monuments / Parks / Palaces / Cultural Programmes / Boat Ride.

The guest has to pay for video cameras, liquor, laundry and other items of personal nature.

Note : 10% Surcharge shall be levied on departure during Christmas / New Year.

Passenger reservations/cancellation on the Deccan Odyssey may be done as per the following terms and conditions :

Booking

25% of ticket value at the time of booking

75% of ticket value 45 days before departure of the tour

Cancellation

10% of the Ticket Value if the request is received before 60 days.

25% of Ticket Value if cancellation is received within a period of 45-59 days from schedule date of departure.

40% of ticket value if cancellation request is received within the period of 24-44 days from schedule date of departure.

60% of ticket value if cancellation request is received within the period of 8-23 days from schedule date of departure.

100% of ticket value if cancellation request is received within the period of 7 days or before the schedule date of departure.

The Saloons

The Deccan Odyssey has 21 coaches out of which 11 are passenger cars with 4 coupes each. There are two Presidential Suite Cars with 2 coupes each car. The cars have channel music, intercom, CD/MP3 player, attached toilets, running hot and cold water, shower, wall-to-wall carpeting and other amenities. The train also has a conference car (can be redesigned as dance floor in the night) and two restaurant cars. There is also a lounge/bar car and one surprising addition is a Spa Car. Apart from the above there are generator cars with luggage store and staff car or spare car. The Deccan Odyssey has exclusive non-smoking suite cars and separate suite cars for the guests who love to smoke.

On Board Facilities

A complimentary bottle of wine courtesy the Deccan Odyssey in all the rooms.

Each guest is provided with an arrival kit consisting of stationery items, brochures, cards, etc. Anything additional can be asked for, from the attendant, always available at your service.

The two restaurant cars, serve a range of Indian, Continental, Maharashtrian, Goa and Chinese cuisines. Menus are changed seasonally.

A well stocked bar serves wine, liquor and spirits of Indian and international brands.

Conference Room with capacity to host 50 guests with facility for satellite communication, Internet, computer with printer and fax, and telephone exchange.

The leading dailies and newspapers greet you every morning. Also available for you is a large collection of magazines.

Ayurvedic Massage Centre, Steam Bath, Gymnasium, Beauty Parlour.

Business Centre.

Special Suite for Physically challenged.

Fully loaded mini pantry in each coach.

Telephone in each saloon.

Television in each coach.

Plasma TV in Lounge Car.

PA System / 6 Channel Music System.

Lounge in each passenger car.

Money exchange facility / credit cards.

Complimentary mineral water on board/in the coach during sightseeing and at hotels.

Voltage available on the train 110/230 V.

Adequate safety and security arrangements.

Wide collection of CD's/MP3.

All essential toiletries like soaps, shampoos, moisturisers etc. are provided in the train.

An attendant is always available at your service, to take care of all your travel needs.

A mailbox is provided on board, which discharges your mail with utmost care and efficiency.

Doctor on call at the next station.

For physically challenged persons special assistance is available in the form of wheel chairs, creches and a special attendant for manual assistance.

Assistance for travel arrangements on completion of the tour.

THE FAIRY QUEEN

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1855 was the year when the majestic Fairy Queen rolled out for the erstwhile East Indian Railway. For the first time after 1908, the Fairy Queen rolled again on Feb. 1st, 1997 from Delhi to Alwar. The steam engine is the oldest working engine in the world. Finding its pride of place in the Guinness Book of World Records and also capturing the National Tourism Award, this prestigious pristine beauty that graces the National Rail Museum, New Delhi, is steaming once again. The Queen, with the privileged ones aboard reaches the picturesque town of Alwar in Rajasthan the same day, from where the guests are taken to Sariska National Park. The selected guests will certainly go back with fond memories of a once-in-a lifetime experience. Go ahead and book your journey back into time.
It is a two-saloon train makes a short journey from Delhi to Alwar. The Fairy Queen, which finds mention in the "Guinness Book of World Records", is the oldest running steam locomotive in the world. For an idyllic weekend trip between Delhi and Alwar, the Fairy Queen comes to the rescue of those bored with the same old blaze ways of travelling around the place. The Fairy Queen with the privileged ones aboard reaches the picturesque town of Alwar in Rajasthan the same day, from where the guests will be taken to Sariska Tiger Reserve for an overnight stay.
ITINERY
Day 1 - Saturday
1000 hrs. Train leaves Delhi Cantonment Station.
1030 hrs. Light snacks on board.
1300 hrs. Lunch on board.
1500 hrs. Light refreshments on board.
1600 hrs. Arrival Alwar Railway Station.
1620 hrs. Departure Alwar by air-conditioned Coach.
1730 hrs. Arrival Hotel Sariska Palace.
1930 hrs. Cultural programme & Theme dinner. Night stay at Hotel Sariska Palace.

Day - 2 Sunday
0630 hrs. Jeep Safari for Tiger Sanctuary.
0930 hrs. Return from Sanctuary & breakfast at Sariska Palace.1200 hrs. Departure Sariska by air-conditioned Coach.
1245 hrs. Arrival Alwar Railway Station.
1300 hrs. Fairy Queen leaves Alwar.
1330 hrs. Lunch on board.
1600 hrs. Light refreshments on board.
1845 hrs. Fairy Queen arrives Delhi Cantonment Station.

HISTORY
Earlier worked from Howrah to Raniganj (121 miles) on EIR
1895 Christened as “Fairy Queen”
1908 Stopped Service
1971 First exhibit of National Rail Museum
1996 Completely overhauled in Perambur workshop of Southern Railway
1997 Revived for working on main line. Chair car for carrying 60 passengers and service car including Generator (230V supply) & Compressor (Air Brakes for the train) readied for the engine to work commercial trips.
18.07.97 First commercial trip
13.01.98 Certification of Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s oldest working locomotive
25.01.99 National Tourism award given by Prime Minister of India for the most innovative & unique tourism project
The Fairy Queen Round Trip Package Tariff
Options
Full Package : 7500/ 3750
One-way train journey between Delhi & Alwar + sightseeing/stay at Sariska : 5500/ 2750
One-way train journey, between Delhi & Alwar only : 2200/ 1100
All inclusive except alcoholic drinks
(Half fare for children above 5 years but below 12 years of age)

The foreign tourists will be charged as per the prevalent exchange rate of INR vis-à-vis US $. The travel agents booking the passengers will get a commission at 10% on the tariff.
The Fairy Queen, a special heritage train, hauled by the Fairy Queen Steam locomotive will start running from 27th October; 2007 during the Tourist season 2007-08 as per the following package, schedule, trips, tariff and the agencies from where the bookings can be made:

The comprehensive two-day tourist package includes on-ground catering, lodging, boarding, transfer facilities, visit to Sariska National Park, cultural programmes etc. In the package, the tourists would be taken to Alwar and would be lodged in Hotel ‘Tiger Den’ at Sariska.
SCHEDULE
The departure dates from Delhi Cantt. railway station will be as follows:

Months - Dates

October 2007 - 27th

November 2007 - 10th and 24th

December 2007 - 8th and 22nd

January 2008 - 12th and 26th

February 2008 - 9th and 23rd

March 2008 - 8th

Dates of Departure for the year 2008-09

Months - Dates

October 2008 - 25th

November 2008 - 8th and 22nd

December 2008 - 13th and 27th

January 2009 - 10th and 24th

February 2009 - 14th and 28th

March 2009 - 14th
For bookings please contact:
International Tourist Bureau
New Delhi Railway Station
New Delhi – 110 001
Ph.: 91-11-23405156, 23346804
Fax: 91-11-23343050
email: itbnrind@hotmail.com

The Director
Tourism & Marketing
Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd.
9th Floor, Bank of Baroda Building, 16, Parliament Street, New Delhi – 110001, Ph. No. 011-23311258.

Manager
Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation
Bikaner House
Pandara Road, New Delhi -110011
Ph: 91-11-23381884, 23386069
Fax: 91-11-23382823
email: powrtdc@mantramail.com
The train can also be booked for special chartered trips.

INTERESTING FACTS AND FEATURES OF THE FAIRY QUEEN ENGINE
1855: Built by Kitson, Thompson Hewitson, UK for the erstwhile East Indian Railways (EIR)
Weight :: 26 tonnes
Coal Tender :: 2 tonnes
Water Capacity :: 3000 litres (under slung water tank)
Horse Power :: 130
Gauge :: 5 ft. 6 inch or 1.67 m (Broad Gauge)
Wheel arrangement :: 2-2-2 Driving wheel diameter 1800 mm
Maximum Speed :: 40 Kmph
Cylinders :: 2 outside (12 inch x 22 inch)

Luxury Trains

2008-09-25T01:18:00.000-07:00

The Fairy Queen
The Palace on Wheels
The Deccan Odyssey
The Royal Orient
The Golden Chariot
Below:
Shimla
Ooty (Udhagamandalam)
Darjeeling
Matheran

If you have some time to spare, take a slow toy train up to the hill resort of Shimla, Ooty (Udhagamandalam), Darjeeling or Matheran. There is nothing to match the experience of chugging up the hills, past little hamlets and terraced fields, making your way through tunnels and over breathtaking bridges. Its leisurely pace offers you a panoramic view of changing vistas. The invigorating air and the delights of scenic hill resort provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Shimla - The toy train journey from Kalka to Shimla is entertaining with 107 tunnels and lofty arched bridges. The dazzling view and the stops at the picturesque stations along the way - Dharmpore, Taksal, Gamma and Solan all add up to an exhilarating experience.

Access to Shimla - A broad gauge line up to Kalka connects Shimla. 'The Toy Train' covers the distance of 96 km between the two stations within six hours.

Ooty (Udhagamandalam) - The Nilgiri Mountain Railway starts from the town of Mettupalayam and thus begins a journey full of twists and turns as this narrow gauge train ascends 46 km, on its way to the hill resort at Ooty. At a maximum speed of 33 km per hour this 'toy train' treks across plains, plantations and forest clad hills. The 16 tunnels and tall bridges on the way along with the breathtaking view make this toy train journey to Ooty an extraordinary experience!
Access to Ooty - Ooty is connected by a narrow gauge line from Mettupalayam, which serves as the railhead for mainline trains.

Major Trains to Mettupalayam - The Nilgiri Express conncets Mettupalayam with Chennai daily. Coimbatore, the nearest city is 90 kms away and linked to all the major cities by rail . Mettupalayam is easily accessible from Coimbatore by frequent bus or train services.

Darjeeling - The most famous of the little trains, is the one linking the town of New Jalpaiguri the plains to the lovely hill station of Darjeeling. With a 2 ft gauge, the Darjeeling Hill Railway is indeed a 'toy train' being the narrowest of the regular narrow gauges. The tiny century-old engine is connoisseur's delight. The 86 km Darjeeling line has no tunnels, thus allowing the traveller an uninterrupted view of the breathtaking scenery of the Himalaya. The 7 1/2 hour ride is a journey especially for rail buffs.

Access to Darjeeling - New Jalpaiguri , the starting point of the hill train to Darjeeling, has direct connections to Calcutta, Delhi, Guwahati and other places in India.

Matheran - The 77 year old line, connecting Neral (on main line of Central Railway) to Matheran , is the main way to reach the tiny hill resort, close to Mumbai. As the little train wheezes up into the clear mountain air one can view the scenic vista of hills and plains below. The lack of vehicular traffic at Matheran makes it an unusual and peaceful retreat.

Access to Matheran - The toy train to Matheran commences from Neral (Mumbai- Pune line), which is connected from Mumbai by local train. The journey up to Matheran from Neral takes about 1 1/2 hours. The toy train runs between sunrise and sunset.

Visa Information

2008-09-23T03:24:00.000-07:00
a. Visa fees are non-refundable and subject to change without notice. The High Commission reserves the right on granting and deciding type/duration of visa irrespective of the fees tendered at the time of making application. Granting of Visa does not confer the right of entry to India and is subject to the discretion of the Immigration Authorities. Visa can be applied for in person or by post at the High Commission of India in London. Visa applications from persons not ordinarily residing in the UK or from people of Pakistani, Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan origin are considered only in the High Commission of India, London and Consulate General of India, Birmingham and their processing may take one week or in some cases much longer. Applicants not ordinarily resident in the UK and Sri Lankan nationals are required to complete an additional form. Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals have to file special visa application forms. In the following cases processing of applications will take longer: (a) British Nationals holding dual nationality or of other origin, (b) applicants not resident in the UK, (c) where clearance from India is mandatory, (d) visitors to restricted areas and (e) certain cases where documents may need to be verified. Visa Section will contact the applicant about the time of delivery for such passports. Please note that each application is examined individually and the time taken for issuing Visa will vary from case to case.

Visitors to restricted/protected areas need special permits and for this purpose an additional form has to be completed. Please contact the High Commission of India, London if you wish to ascertain whether any of the places you intend to visit fall in the category of restricted/protected areas.

Specific Visas are granted for a variety of purposes. The principal types of Visa issued are mentioned below. Please contact the High Commission of India for further details if you are visiting India for purposes other than tourism, such as journalism, conferences, yoga, voluntary work, mountaineering or other expeditions. The visa application form is, however, the same. Separate forms are available for Pakistani and Bangladeshi Nationals.

b. Requirements for Visa
1.
1. Original passport valid for at least 6 months
2. Correct visa fee
3. Two passport size photographs (5 photographs in case of Pakistani Nationals)
4. Supporting documents, where necessary
5. Duly completed application form (Pakistani and Bangladeshi Nationals need to apply on special application forms)

2. Additional requirements for different types of Visa are given below.
a. Tourist Visa
Tourists wishing to visit India will normally be granted tourist Visa, effective from the date of issue. Tourist Visa are non-extendible and non-convertible. Travel Agents who have to visit India frequently may be granted tourist Visa for a longer duration.

b. Business Visa
Business Visa are normally granted for 3 or 6 months. However, multiple-entry Business Visa for up to 2 years validity may be granted to technicians/experts going to India in pursuance of bilateral agreements or joint venture projects having government approval.

c. Student and Employment Visa
Student Visa can be obtained on furnishing proof of admission to recognized Universities/Institutions in India. Employment Visa can also be obtained on furnishing of proof of employment with companies in India.

d. Transit Visa
Transit Visa are valid for halts of up to 72 hours in India within 15 days from the date of issue of the visa and must be obtained before departure. Transit Visa cannot be obtained from immigration counters at ports of entry in India. Evidence of onward travel to a destination outside India is required.

e. Entry Visa
Entry Visa are issued to persons of Indian origin for a duration of up to 5 years. These can be obtained, depending on the purpose of visit and eligibility, on a case by case basis.

Please Note : Persons holding long term Visa (having validity exceeding 6 months) are normally not expected to stay in India more than 6 months during each visit. Please refer to the boxed note further down for requirement to register with the Foreigners Registration Office (FRO)/Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).

Visa Exemption Letters for Minors
Visa Exemption Letters previously granted to children of Indian origin (for a maximum validity of 90 days from the date of issue) have been discontinued since 1 July 1999. Visa Exemption Letters issued in the past are hence no longer valid. All children holding separate passports are now required to obtain regular Visa.

For more information, please visit the site
http://passport.nic.in/visrules.htm

Heritage Sites

2008-09-23T03:07:00.000-07:00

Properties inscribed on the World Heritage List:
Cultural
Agra Fort
Ajanta Caves (1983)
Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi (1989)
Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park (2004)
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus) (2004)
Churches and Convents of Goa (1986)
Elephanta Caves (1987)
Ellora Caves (1983)
Fatehpur Sikri (1986)
Great Living Chola Temples (1987)
Group of Monuments at Hampi (1986)
Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram (1984)
Group of Monuments at Pattadakal (1987)
Humayun's Tomb, Delhi (1993)
Khajuraho Group of Monuments (1986)
Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya (2002)
Mountain Railways of India (1999)
Qutb Minar and its Monuments, Delhi (1993)
Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka (2003)
Sun Temple, Konârak (1984)
Taj Mahal (1983)
Natural
Kaziranga National Park (1985)
Keoladeo National Park (1985)
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary (1985)
Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks (1988)
Sundarbans National Park (1987)

Credits: http://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/in (for Images & Content)

Cruises

2008-09-23T03:00:00.000-07:00

http://www.cruiselinesindia.com/index.htm
http://www.starcruises.com/Destinations/India/mumbai.html
http://www.i-cruise.com//cruise_content/India_ports.htm
http://www.royalcaribbean.com

Agents

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International Travel Agents
Domestic Travel Agents

Flights

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www.travelhouseindia.com
www.journeymart.com
www.makemytrip.com
www.expedia.com/daily/home/default.asp
www.travelocity.com

Communication

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The Indian telecommunications Network is the fifth largest in the world and is the second largest among the emerging economies of Asia.

Today it is the fastest growing market in the world. Private operators have made mobile telephony the fastest growing (over 164% p.a.) in India.

With more than 33 million users (both CDMA and GSM), wireless is the principal growth engine of the Indian telecom industry. Intense competition between the four main private groups - Bharti, Hutch, Tata and Reliance and with the State sector incumbents-BSNL and MTNL has brought about a significant drop in tariffs. The 3 G spectrum has too launched recently.

The Government has played a key enabling role by deregulating and liberalising the industry, ushering in competition and paving the way for growth.

Languages

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India is a land of a variety of linguistic communities, each of which share a common language and culture. Though there could be fifteen principal languages there are hundreds of thousands dialects that add to the vividness of the country.

18 languages are officially recognized in India of which Sanskrit and Tamil share a long history of more than 5,000 and 3,000 years respectively. The population of people speaking each language varies drastically. For example Hindi has 250 million speakers, while Andamanese is spoken by relatively fewer people.

Tribal or Aboriginal language speaking population in India may be more than some of the European languages. For instance Bhili and Santali both tribal languages have more than 4 million speakers. The vividness can be ascertained by the fact that schools in India teach more than 50 different languages; there are Films in 15 languages, Newspapers in 90 or more languages and radio programmes in 71 languages!

Indian languages come from four distinct families, which are: Indo-European, Dravidian, Mon-Khmer, and Sino-Tibetan. Majority of Indian population uses Indo-European and Dravidian languages. The language families divide India geographically too.

Indo-European languages dominate the northern and central India while in south India; mainly languages of Dravidian origin are spoken. In eastern India languages of Mon-Khmer group is popular. Sino Tibetan languages are spoken in the northern Himalayas and close to Burmese border. In terms of percentage, 75% of Indian population speaks languages of Indo-European family, 23% speak languages of Dravidian origin and about 2% of the population speaks Mon-Khmer languages and Sino-Tibetan languages.

Cuisine

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The Indian cuisine boasts of an immense variety not restricted to only curry. An authentic Indian curry is an intricate combination of a stir-fried Masala - a mixture of onion, garlic, ginger, and tomatoes; various spices and seasonings with which meat; poultry, vegetables or fish is prepared to produce a stew-type dish. Note: the word Masala also means spice.

Food in India is wide ranging in variety, taste and flavour. Being so diverse geographically, each region has its own cuisine and style of preparation. Indian cuisine, renowned for its exotic gravies seems complicated for any newcomer. The Mughlai cuisine of North differs sharply from the preparations of the south. The Wazwan style of Kashmir is luxurious but the same can be said about Bengal's Macher Jhol, Rajasthan's Dal Bati, Uttar Pradesh's Kebabs and Punjab's Sarson Ka Saag and Makki di Roti. In India, recipes are handed down from generation to generation.

The unique and strong flavours in Indian cuisine are derived from spices, seasonings and nutritious ingredients such as leafy vegetables, grains, fruits, and legumes. Most of the spices used in Indian cooking were originally chosen thousands of years ago for their medicinal qualities and not for flavour. Many of them such as turmeric, cloves and cardamoms are very antiseptic, others like ginger, are carminative and good for the digestion. All curries are made using a wide variety of spices.

In Indian cuisine, food is categorized into six tastes - sweet, sour, salty, spicy, bitter and astringent. A well-balanced Indian meal contains all six tastes, not always can this be accomplished. This principle explains the use of numerous spice combinations and depth of flavour in Indian recipes. Side dishes and condiments like chutneys, curries, daals and Indian pickles contribute to and add to the overall flavour and texture of a meal and provide balance needed.

Fairs and Festivals

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The Colourful mosaic of Indian festivals and fairs - as diverse as the land, is an eternal expression of the spirit of celebration. Observed with enthusiasm and gaiety, festivals are like gems ornamenting the crown of Indian Culture. They are round the year vibrant interludes in the mundane routine of life.

Every season brings along new festivals, each a true celebration of the bounties of the rich traditions followed for time immemorial. That's not all! The birthdays of Gods and Goddesses, saints and prophets, great historical happenings and the advent of the New Year, all find expression in colourful festivities. The same festival, though celebrated differently in the various parts of the country, exhibits an eternal harmony of the spirit of celebration.

Packed with fun and excitement, festivals serve as an occasion to clean and decorate houses, to get together with friends and relatives and to exchange gifts. New attire, dance, music and rituals- all add to their joyful rhythm. It is a time for prayer, for pageantry and procession…a time to rejoice, in celebration of life.
Some Festivals are:
Durga Puja
Diwali

Indian Folk and Tribal Dances

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Indian folk and tribal dances are simple , and performed to express joy. Folk dances are performed for every possible occasion, to celebrate the arrival of seasons, birth of a child, a wedding and festivals. The dances are extremely simple with minimum of steps or movements. The dances burst with verve and vitality. Men and women perform some dances exclusively, while in some performances men and women dance together. On most occasions, the dancers sing themselves, while being accompanied by artists on the instruments. Each form of dance has a specific costume. Most costumes are flamboyant with extensive jewels.

The northeast part of the country is the home for over 60 tribes. Each tribe has its own range of tribal dances. The exciting dances of the Nagas and the Bihus of Assam, are performed to celebrate spring and harvesting.

The chief folk dance of Gujarat, the Dandiya, is performed using sticks. Each performer holds two sticks, which they strike alternately to the right and left while the group dances. They also move diagonally, clockwise, anti-clockwise, as they strike the sticks.

The Bhangra dance of Punjab is performed by men, to the rhythm of the drum. The dance includes a wide range of leaps and jumps. Dancers stand on each other's shoulder while dancing to the music.

There are hundreds of Indian folk and tribal dances. Each region of India has its own folk dance. Both men and women perform the bamboo dance of Mizoram. While the men hold the bamboo, the women folk dance between the bamboo. In this performance, the sound of the bamboo hitting each other is the rhythm. Though dangerous if a rhythm is missed, these experienced dancers perform with grace and with care.

In the south, the dummy horse dance or the Poikalkuthirai, is very famous. Dancers fit dummy legs to their legs and dance to the tune of the music. Both men and women perform this form of art. In Tamil Nadu, dancers place a karagam or a decorated jug, on their head and dance while balancing the karagam.

While there are numerous folk and tribal dances, they are constantly improved. The skill and the imagination of the dances influence the performance.

Music

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Classical Dance and Music

Indian Classical Dance "..abstraction of Upanishadic thought which is assiduously translated in to well designed concrete language of artistic media."

It all started with Natya Shastra

Said to be written 2000 years ago by Bharata Muni, it is the seminal source book for dancers and performers. The mammoth book covers all technical and aesthetic aspects of the art of the Indian Theatre and Dance.

From the purpose of natya, to the architectural format, stage rituals, Rasa, Bhava, Abhinaya, gestic communication, music, types of instruments. 37 chapters that together form the nucleus of this fascinating performing art. Later century works like Abhinaya Darpana, Abhinaya Chandrike, also have great relevance to the dancer today.

Legend has it that the Devas (Gods) had vanquished the Asuras (Evil) and were relating the happenings to Brahma, the God of Creation. The Asuras thought this was a renewed attack and retaliated. Brahma intervened - "This is only a performance, hence forth it will only be held on earth".

And Brahma passed on all the information on Dance and Drama to Bharata Muni who compiled it as the Natya Shastra.

Sculpture Comes To Life

Temples were raised to the house the Gods and became the focal point for the community. They also became centres of learning and contributed to the advancement of such arts as sculpture, painting, music and dance. Mostly built by Kings, who were also the patrons of arts, encouraging a continuity and enriching rituals of worship, the earliest basis of the classical performing arts.

It was from the temple that the Devdasi cult (Temple Dancers who performed for the Lord) began. Once a practice countrywide - the Kulvantalu in Andhra Pradesh, the Maibi in Manipur, the Devdasi in Tamil Nadu and the Mahari in Orissa, all trace their roots to the temple. The countless sculptures of dance poses in the temples, hint at the potency of dance as a path to spiritual exaltation and lays out a complete lexicon of dance techniques.

For instance, it is said that the greater part of vocabulary of Odissi dance is preserved in stone.

A rich heritage to be brought alive by the artist.

People and Lifestyle

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In a country as diverse and complex as India, it is not surprising to find that people here reflect the rich glories of the past, the culture, traditions and values relative to geographic locations and the numerous distinctive manners, habits and food that will always remain truly Indian. According to five thousand years of recorded history.

From the eternal snows of the Himalayas to the cultivated peninsula of far South, from the deserts of the West to the humid deltas of the East, from the dry heat and cold of the Central Plateau to the cool forest foothills, Indian lifestyles clearly glorify the geography. The food, clothing and habits of an Indian differ in accordance to the place of origin.

Indians believe in sharing happiness and sorrow. A festival or a celebration is never constrained to a family or a home. The whole community or neighbourhood is involved in bringing liveliness to an occasion. A lot of festivals like Diwali, Holi, Id, Christmas, Mahaveer Jayanthi are all celebrated by sharing sweets and pleasantries with family, neighbours and friends. An Indian wedding is an occasion that calls for participation of the family and friends. Similarly, neighbours and friends always help out a family in times of need.

Ethnically Indians speak different languages, follow different religions, eat the most diverse varieties of food all of which add to the rich Indian culture.The beauty of the Indian people lies in the spirit of tolerance, give-and-take and a composition of cultures that can be compared to a garden of flowers of various colours and shades of which, while maintaining their own entity, lend harmony and beauty to the garden - India!

Classical Dance

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Below:
Bharat Natyam
Kuchipudi
Mohini Attam
Kathakali
Odissi
Manipuri
Kathak
Chhau
Bharat Natyam

Bharat Natyam, one of the oldest Indian Classical dance forms is an essence of dedicatory dance. This was performed by Devadasis in the temples, primarily in Tamil Nadu and to lesser extent in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.
Bharat Natyam is compounded from 'bha' for bhava or emotional projection, 'ra' for raga or melody and 'ta' for tala rhythm. Natyam means the art of dance.

The Sangam Age from 500 B.C to 500 AD marks the evolution of this dance form. The early part of the present century saw the resurgence of this dance form.

The key posture of this dance form requires the upper part of the body to be erect, the legs bent halfway down with the knees spread out, and the feet positioned like a half open fan. Practically every part of the body has its distinct movement.

The songs used are composed from the poetic literature of Tamil, Telegu, and Sanskrit and to some extent Kannada. The accompanying music is in pure Carnatic style.

Today, Bharat Natyam is not a dance style but a dance technique.
Kuchipudi
The art form takes its name from the village of its birth, in the Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh. Kuchipudi was the result of the Bhakti Movement in the 6th Century, Siddendra Yogi, the progenitor of the form, presented a dance drama with boys from the village of Kuchipudi. Consciously they raised the form above the reach of Devdasi. The boys were committed to an annual presentation of the form and they passed on the techniques to the next generation. So a tradition and a form were born.

The performer has to express through the language of gestures, speech and song. The Kuchipudi artiste, apart from being a dancer and an actor has to have a high proficiency - in Sanskrit and Telegu languages, music and the texts of performance.

Kuchipudi plays are performed in the open air on improvised stages at night. The sutradhar, or master of ceremonies plays an integral role introducing characters, providing humour and tying together the show. The fast paced nature of the form has made it a popular dramatic form.

It is better known as a solo form today but the wheel has come full circle with group work, with experimental choreography much in demand.
Mohini Attam
Mohini Attam is one of the youngest Indian Classical dances. This form of dance came into its own by the 16th Century and was evolved under the patronage of Maharaja Swati Thirunal of Travancore (present day south Kerala).

Mohini means a maiden who excites desire and her dance is known as Mohini Attam. From the inception itself, Mohini Attam was conceived as a form of social diversion. The themes of the songs were both religious and social.

In the matter of technical format, there are many similarities between Mohini Attam and Bharat Natyam and also the central motif of adavus (gestures) being the same. It is essentially a solo dance and performed by women with tender and graceful body movements belonging to the lasya style. The hand gestures play an important part as a communication medium.

The costume comprises a white sari with gold ornaments on the neck, waist, wrists and a typical hair bun with flowers on the left side of the head.

The dominant emotion in Mohini Attam is of shringara (love).
Kathakali
Kerala presents to the country one of the most imposing and colourful spectacles of dance Kathakali. It is heroic, majestic and epic in character.

Though this form of art is not more than 300 years old, the actual roots can be traced to 1500 years earlier. It symbolises the blending of the Aryan and Dravidian cultures and is presumed to have evolved out of the various ancient theatre traditions of the region like Krishnattam, Ramanattam, Koodiyattam, Mudiyyetu and Teyyam. Mahakavi Vallathol of Cherutoorthi (Palakkad) contributed greatly in the revival of this art by forming Kalamandalam, the famous teaching institution, set up in the thirties.

Mostly based on the mythology and the themes of Ramayana and Mahabharata, a Kathakali performance opens with the thunder of drums, which invites the audiences. The performance lasts night long and till recently only men were allowed to perform even in female roles. Nowadays, though, many women have made their mark in this art form

As a form of art, Kathakali is a sophisticated spectacle of the supernatural.
ODISSI

A dance form born in the state of Orissa, manifested in temple sculptures from 2nd century BC, practiced and enriched by the Devadasis or maharis (as the temple dancing girls are called in Orissa). With the construction of the Jagannath Temple in Puri in the 12th century, the practice of dedicating maharis in the service of the temple was initiated and continues to this day.

At once sensuous and spiritual, it has the ability to portray erotic sentiments in a deeply reverential manner. Odissi is a highly stylised dance with tribhanga or the three-bend attitude of Hindu sculpture. The bhava or feeling is chaste and orthodox, with flashes of heightened dramatization.

The accompanying music is pure and classical, with graces of both the Hindustani and the Carnatic styles. The instruments traditionally used are the mandala-drums, gini-small cymbals and the flute.

Odissi has been restored to its rightful place only in the last few decades with the tireless work of Gurus like Pankaj Charan and Deba Prasad Das, Kelucharan Mohapatra and Mayadhar Raut .
MANIPURI

The Manipuris have song and dance woven in to their lives and regard themselves as the descendents of the Gandharvas. Their love for dance reflects their rich lore of legend and mythology.

There is no authoritative record of the history of Manipur's dance and music prior to the 18th Century AD.

However the lasting developments in technique and methods took place during the time of Jai Singh (1764-1789), who was a great devotee of Lord Krishna and a follower of Vaishnavism.

Among the legendary and mythological tales, the Rasa Lila, dance performed by Shiva and Parvati and Lai Haraoba of Khamba and Thoibi the celebrated lovers, deserves special mention.

In the Ras Lila, the movements are extremely graceful coupled with soft and light steps in which the heels never touch down. The dancers have a fixed angelic expression on their face. The costume is extremely colourful and glittering.

Lai Haraoba is the oldest dance form of Manipur and belongs to the pre Vaishnava period. The dance style is diffused and meandering. The dancers make stylised hand and body movements, but the face remains blank. The steps are gentle yet powerful.

Even today dancing remains a key element in the art and daily ritual of Manipur.
KATHAK

Kathaks were originally story tellers who used to dance to illustrate 'Kathas' or stories. They were attached to the temples of North India.

With the advent of Muslim rule, Kathak went from the temple to the courts. Consequently Kathak flowered as a form in the Hindu courts of Rajasthan and the Muslims courts of Delhi, Agra and Lucknow. Court patronage evolved Kathak into a highly technical and stylished art with emphasis on the solo performers and their virtuosity.

Gradually, the two schools became distinctively different the Jaipur Gharana focussed on layakari, or rhythmic wizardly, while the Lucknow Gharana expounded bhava or moods and emotions. Nawab Wajid Ali Shah was instrumental in the Lucknow Gharana's growth, ( Satyajit Ray's film Shatranj Ke Khilari, deals with the period). However, both schools have Radha & Krishna as their central theme.

Rhythm, timing and so footwork are the main planks of Kathak. The musical accompaniment to the 200 ghungrus or bells on the dancer's feet, are the sarangi and the tabla.

Kathak is a true fusion of the Hindu and Muslim genius in art and it the only Classical dance of North India.

CHHAU

The etymoligal root of the word Chhau is traced to the Sanskrit Chhaya or shade, referring to the mask used by the dancers. Others aver, it is derived from the word 'Chauuni' where the pharikhanda (shield & sword) soldiers stayed.

The technique of the dance, infact, draws on steps and gait which have stemmed from the 'Pharikhanda System'. It is basically a martial dance where the mask holds the dominant Rasa while the body creates, projects, and develops the moods.

Chhau has three schools as such, coming from Seraikella in Bihar, Mayurbhanj in Orissa and Purulia in West Bengal. While all the three Chhau forms are danced by men, Mayurbhanj uses no masks but the others do.

The themes are based on mythology, everyday life, aspects of nature or just a mood or emotion. Purulia Chhau, however, has a single focus - good triumphs over evil. The music is based on Hindustani Ragas and the Accompaniment is with a Nagara, a huge kettledrum, Dhol, a cylindrical drum, and Shehnai or reed pipes.

The strenuous nature of the dance restricts performances to brief periods, but in Purulia Chhau a single item could be a forty minutes and a performance, night long.

Union Territories	Headquarters
Andaman and Nicobar Islands	Port Blair
Pondicherry	Pondicherry
Dadra & Nagar Haveli	Silvassa
Daman and Diu	Daman
Lakshwadeep	Kavaratti
Chandigarh	Chandigarh

States	Capital
Andhra Pradesh	Hyderabad
Arunachal Pradesh	Itanagar
Assam	Dispur
Bihar	Patna
Chhattisgarh	Raipur
Goa	Panaji
Gujarat	Gandhinagar
Haryana	Chandigarh
Himachal Pradesh	Shimla
Jammu and Kashmir	Srinagar (Summer capital)
	Jammu (Winter capital)
Jharkhand	Ranchi
Karnataka	Bangalore
Kerala	Thiruvananthapuram
Madhya Pradesh	Bhopal
Maharashtra	Mumbai
Manipur	Imphal
Meghalaya	Shillong
Mizoram	Aizawl
Nagaland	Kohima
Orissa	Bhubaneswar
Punjab	Chandigarh
Rajasthan	Jaipur
Sikkim	Gangtok
Tamil Nadu	Chennai
Tripura	Agartala
Uttar Pradesh	Lucknow
Uttaranchal	Dehradun
West Bengal	Kolkata