Enjoying Jaipur City Tour || The India Tourism

Jaipur City Tour Packages : - Jaipur is the capital of India’s Rajasthan state. It evokes the royal family that once ruled the region and that, in 1727, founded what is now called the Old City, or “Pink City” for its trademark building color. At the center of its stately street grid (notable in India) stands the opulent, colonnaded City Palace complex. With gardens, courtyards and museums, part of it is still a royal residence

Amber Fort - Amber (pronounced Amer) is at a distance of about 11 kilometres from Jaipur. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was the bastion of the Kachwahas of Amber, until the capital was moved to the plains, to what is today Jaipur. The palace, located in craggy hills, is a beautiful melange of Hindu and Mughal styles. Raja Man Singh I began construction in 1592 and the palace, which was built as a strong, safe haven against attacking enemies, was completed by Mirza Raja Jai Singh. The contrast between the harsh exterior and the inviting interior couldn’t be more surprising. Made entirely of red sandstone and white marble, visitors are left spellbound by the magnificence of the palace that utilises carvings, precious stones and mirrors. The splendour of the palace is enhanced by the breath-taking vista of the Maota Lake in front. The palace is nearly seven centuries old and has a legendary past. Originally a small structure that the Rajputs won from the Meena tribes, it was later transformed into the grand Amber Palace.



City Palace - Located deep within the walled city, the City Palace Complex was conceived and built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. A beautiful fusion of Mughal and Rajput architecture, the palace is still home to the last ruling royal family which lives in a private section of the palace. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II is credited with building most of the structures, but it was expanded upon by later rulers as well. The City Palace Complex includes the Mubarak Mahal (the palace of reception) and the Maharani’s Palace (the palace of the queen). Mubarak Mahal now houses the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum and displays a vast and unique collection of royal costumes, delicate Pashmina (Kashmiri) shawls, Benaras silk saris, and other dresses with Sanganeri prints and folk embroidery. The clothes of Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I are also on display. The Maharani's Palace, surprisingly, has an interesting display of very well-preserved Rajput weaponry, some dating back to the 15th century. Other than the arms, the palace is adorned with beautiful paintings on the ceiling that are well-maintained.

Nahargarh Fort -Nahargarh Fort sits proudly on a ridge of the Aravalli Hills, creating an impressive northern backdrop to the city of Jaipur. It was constructed during the reign of Jai Singh in 1734, and was later expanded in 1868. Nahargarh, which means abode of tigers, was a formidable barrier, defending Jaipur against attacking enemies. Within its walls, the fort houses Madhavendra Bhawan, the summer destination for the members of the royal family. Built by Sawai Madho Singh, the palace has 12 matching boudoirs for the queens, at the head of which is a suite for the king. They are all connected by corridors decorated with delicate murals. Even today the palace is a favoured spot for local picnickers. The fort looks brilliant when floodlit at night. Overlooking the city, it presents a glittering view of the city lights.



Jaigarh Fort - About 15 kilometres from Jaipur, Jaigarh Fort was built by Sawai Jai Singh II sometime in the early 18th century amidst the arid, rocky and thorn-scrub covered hills. Despite its ancient construction, it still retains most of its imposing citadel appearance. Visitors can see the world’s largest cannon – Jaiban, at the fort.



Birla Mandir -The Lakshmi-Narayan Temple, or the Birla Temple, as it is more popularly known as, is located at the base of Moti Dungari. Built on an elevated platform, this comparatively modern temple is built entirely of white marble and dominates the skyline of south Jaipur. The temple was commissioned and built by renowned Indian industrialists, the Birlas, in 1988. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, also called Narayan, and his companion, Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and good fortune. The temple is a work of art and has a marvellous display of exquisite carvings and sculptures covering many mythological themes. The eye is drawn to the images of Laxmi and Narayan, carved as they are, from one piece of marble. The top of the temple has three domes, each representing the three religions followed in India. This is designed to pay homage to secular India. The temple looks spectacular at night when it is lit up. Other than the main temple, the complex has a museum that exhibits the earlier belongings of the Birla family.

Jal Mahal - One of the most wonderful sights in Jaipur is the beautiful Jal Mahal or Lake Palace. The light, sand coloured stone walls and the deep blue of the water make for a wonderful contrast. The palace appears to float in the centre of Man Sagar Lake, where its magnificent exteriors can be enjoyed by tourists.



Gaitore Jaipur - Gaitore, one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Jaipur, is a royal cremation ground for the Kachwaha Rajput kings and the members of the royal family. The word 'Gaitore' is believed to be a mispronounced form of the Hindi phrase, 'Gaye ka Thor' which means 'resting place of the departed souls'. Located on a narrow valley on Jaipur-Amer road, this place is 15 km away from Jaipur. The valley has cenotaphs (chhatri) made of marble and sandstone with Rajastani carvings, dedicated to legendary kings who ruled Jaipur. A perfect blending of Islamic and Hindu temple architecture, Gaitore has cenotaphs of Sawai Ram Singh, Sawai Madho Singh and Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and so on. Among these kings, the cenotaph of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II is quite impressive with its intricate peacock carvings and designs on beautiful white marble structure. It is said that the carvings on each cenotaph reflects the taste of the respective king. Read further to know more about Gaitore and its historic significance.



Sisodia Rani Palace and Garden – Sisodia Rani Palace and Garden is located 8 kilometres from Jaipur on the Agra road. Laid out in Mughal style, it is painted with the legends of Radha and Krishna. The garden is multi-tiered and has fountains, water courses and painted pavilions. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II built it for his Sisodia queen.

Govind Dev Ji Temple – The Krishna temple is a rare spire-less temple and houses the idol of Govind Devji that Sawai Jai Singh brought from Vrindavan. The deity, worshipped by the erstwhile royal family, is also revered by the the locals in the area.



Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple –Moti Doongri is a small hill around which the city of Jaipur flourishes. Moti Doongri means pearl hill, because the hill indeed resembles a pearl drop. Visitors go there to pay homage at the famous Ganesh temple, the most auspicious and important religious temple in Jaipur. The Ganesh temple was built by Seth Jai Ram Paliwal, sometime in the early 18th century. A legend goes, the King of Mewar was heading back to his palace after a long journey and was carting a massive Ganesh idol on a bullock cart. The king had decided that he would build a temple for the idol of Lord Ganesh wherever the bullock cart stopped. Apparently the cart stopped at the foot of the Moti Doongri, which is where the temple is situated today. The hill also has an exotic palace perched right on top. A replica of a Scottish castle, it was once the royal home of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh. It continues to belong to the royal family. The mere view of this castle is extremely exotic.



Digamber Jain Mandir – The ancient Digambar Jain temple at Jaipur is in Sanganer, 14 km from the city. The principal idol in the Sanghiji Temple is of Lord Adinath in the Padmasan (lotus position) posture. The temple is made of red stone and has attractive carvings. The seven-storied temple has sky-high 'shikharas' (spires) and its inner sanctum is a stone shrine with eight sky-high shikharas.

Jantar Mantar -Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jantar Mantar in Jaipur is considered to be the largest of the five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. It contains sixteen geometric devices, designed to measure time, track celestial bodies and observe the orbits of the planets around the sun. It also houses the Interpretation Centre that helps the tourists to understand about the working principles & chronolgy of the observatory.



Hawa Mahal - Hawa Mahal, literally the Palace of Winds, was built in 1799 by the poet king Sawai Pratap Singh as a summer retreat for him and his family. It also served as a place where the ladies of the royal household could observe everyday life without being seen themselves. This unique five-storey structure is a blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture, and the exterior, with its small latticed windows (called jharokhas), resembles the crown of Lord Krishna. The windows also serve as an air-conditioner of sorts, blowing cool air throughout the palace, making it the perfect retreat during summers. Built from pink sandstone, the Hawa Mahal is Jaipur’s iconic landmark and visitors can view its complete magnificence from outside, from across the road. However, it is also possible to climb right up to the top for a wonderful view from the windows. Today, the Mahal is maintained by the Archaeological Department of the Government of Rajasthan and also houses an archaeological museum in the courtyard.



Albert Hall Museum - The building gets its name from The Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the inspiration for its design. The exquisitely built Albert Hall is housed in the centre of Ram Niwas Garden. Sir Swinton Jacob (who is also the mastermind behind many other palaces in Rajasthan) conceptualised and designed it using styles from the Indo-Sarcenic architecture and the Prince of Wales laid the foundation stone of the building in 1876. The museum displays a wide range of metal objects, wood crafts, carpets, stone and metal sculptures, arms and weapons, natural stones and ivory goods. It also houses a large collection of miniatures from Bundi, Kota, Kishangarh, Udaipur and Jaipur schools of art.



Galtaji Temple – Galtaji is an ancient pilgrimage centre in Jaipur. Set amidst low hills and packed with locals and tourists alike, the attractive spot has temples, pavilions and holy kunds (natural springs and water tanks). Visitors to Galtaji will come across the complex of Ramgopalji temple, locally called the Monkey temple (Galwar Bagh). It gets this moniker because of a large group of resident monkeys. The green landscape and chattering monkeys add to the delight of the area. On top of the hill is a small temple dedicated to the sun god, called the Surya Mandir. Constructed by Diwan Kriparam, the temple can be seen from anywhere in the city.

Nahargarh Biological Park – Nahargarh Biological Park, a part of the Nahargarh sanctuary is located about 12 km from Jaipur on the Jaipur-Delhi highway. It encompasses a large area of 720 hectares and is situated under the Aravalli range. The Park is famous for its vast flora and fauna, and its main aim is to conserve it. It also doubles up as a great place to educate people and conduct research on existing flora and fauna. At Nahargarh Biological Park, ornithologists can expect to see over 285 species of birds, of which, the most popular is the white-naped tit, which can only be found here. When you visit the Park, make sure you also head to Ram Sagar, which is a famous among bird watchers and makes for a great spot to catch different varieties of birds. While here, you can stay at well-equipped and famous places such as Ganga Vilas, Gopal Vilas and Lalit Vilas, which were famous with the maharajas of the yore as hunting lodges. The Nahargarh Zoological Park is also worth a visit and houses animals such as Asiatic lions, Bengal tigers, panthers, hyenas, wolves, deer, crocodiles, sloth bear, Himalayan black bear, wild boar, etc.







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Rajasthan Wildlife Sanctuaries & National Parks Tours - The India Tourism Blog

Rajasthan, India - Rajasthan is home to some of the most famous and highly visited wildlife sanctuaries as well as national parks. Those who have interest in visiting wildlife sanctuaries can now make the most of wildlife travel packages in Rajasthan which also takes you to some of the offbeat destinations. There are many underrated national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan. Here you will learn about three off beat wildlife sanctuaries and national parks.

Ranthambore Tiger Reserve -  Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, before a princely game conserve is the scene where the celebrated Indian Tiger is best seen. Ranthambore Tiger Reserve lies on the junction of Aravali and Vindhyas just 14 Kms from Sawai Madhopur in Eastern Rajasthan. It sprawls over a varying and undulating landscape. The scenery changes dramatically from gentle and steep slopes of the Vindhyas and sharp and conical hills of the Aravali. A tenth century fort also blends amicably with the background. Pure sands of Dhok (Anogeissus pendula) interspersed with grasslands at the plateaus, meadows in valleys and luxuriant foliage around the canals make the jungle. Three big lakes – Padam Talab (meaning Lake), Malik Talab and Raj Bagh – are similar turquoises studded in the vast forest that abounds with aquatic vegetation including duckweeds, lilies and lotus.

A significant geological feature within the park is the ‘Great Boundary Fault’ where the Vindhaya plateau meets the Aravali range. The Rivers Chambal in the South and the Banas in the North bound the National Park. The park is dotted with steep rocky hills and the dominating architecture of Ranthambore Fort (built in the 10th century), adds to its landscape. The rugged park terrain alternates between dry deciduous forest, open grassy meadow, dotted by several lakes and rivers that are only made passable by rough roads built and maintained by the Forest Service.The tiger is not the only attraction at Ranthambore although it is the one park resident that people come to see. A variety of birds including Owlets, the ubiquitous Langur (monkey), Leopard, Caracal, Hyena, Jackal, Jungle Cat, marsh Crocodiles, Wild Boar, Bears and various species of Deer are the other attractions.

Sariska Tiger Reserve - Sariska Tiger Reserve is situated only 200 km from Delhi and 107 kms from Jaipur. Although larger than Ranthambore, it is less commercialised and has less tigers but a similar topography. It covers an area of 800 sq km in total, with a core area of approximately 500 sq km. The Northern Aravali Hills dominate the skyline with their mixture of sharp cliffs and long narrow valleys. The area was declared a sanctuary in 1955 and became a National Park in 1979.

The landscape of Sariska comprises of hills and narrow valleys of the Aravali hill range. The topography of Sariska supports scrub-thorn arid forests, dry deciduous forests, rocks and grasses. The broad range of wildlife here is a wonderful example of ecological adoption and tolerance, for the climate here is variable as well as erratic.

It is located in the contemporary Alwar district and is the legacy of the Maharajas of Alwar. Pavilions and Temples within Sariska are ruins that hint at past riches and glory. The nearby Kankwari Fort has a long and turbulent history.In morning and evening, wildlife in Sariska heads towards the many water holes, which litter the park, thus providing the guests with their best chance of viewing game. At some of these watering holes it is possible to book hides which are situated in prime spots for wildlife viewing.

The park is home to numerous carnivores including Leopard, Wild Dog, Jungle Cat, Civets Hyena, Jackal, and Tiger. These feed on species such as Sambar, Chital, Nilgai, Chausingha, Wild Boar and Langur. Sariska is also well known for its large population of Rhesus Monkeys, which are found around Tal Vriksh.

So, while choosing wildlife Travel Packages in India, make sure that you do include above slated three parks and sanctuaries.

For more information please visit our website - https://www.theindiatourism.com/

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Mussoorie - The Queen of Hills , Snowy Mountains

Mussoorie (Uttarakhand Tourism) - 

Mussoorie is a hill station and a municipal board in the Dehradun District of the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is about 35 kilometres (22 mi) from the state capital of Dehradun and 290 km (180 mi) north of the national capital of New Delhi. The hill station is in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayanrange. The adjoining town of Landour, which includes a military cantonment, is considered part of 'greater Mussoorie', as are the townships of Barlowganj and Jharipani. The pin code for Mussoorie is 248179.

Mussoorie is at an average altitude of 1,880 metres (6,170 ft). To the northeast are the Himalayan snow ranges, and to the south, the Doon Valley and Shiwalik ranges. The second highest point is the original Lal Tibba in Landour, with a height of over 2,275 metres (7,464 ft). Mussoorie is popularly known as The Queen of the Hills.

Mussoorie gets its name from the Mansoor plant that grows in abundance in this region. It was founded in 1820 by Captain Young from the British army. The British officials visited it as a getaway from the heat during summer. During the 1959 Tibetan Rebellion, the Central Tibetan Administration of 14th Dalai Lama was first established in Mussoorie before being moved to its present location in Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh. The first Tibetan school was established in Mussoorie in 1960. The lush green hills, the varied flora and fauna and the majestic view of the Himalayas attract thousands of tourists both domestic and international to Mussoorie each year. Mussoorie has several interesting tourist places like Kempty Falls, Gun Hill, Camel's Back Road, Jharipani Falls, Mall Road, Childer's Lodge, Bhatta Falls, Dhanaulti, and Kanatal. Mussoorie also offers some adventure and shopping opportunities. Tourists can enjoy horse riding or a leisurely walk across Camel's Back Road and a ropeway ride to the top of Gun Hills.

Mussoorie has also developed into an important center of education and business. It is also famous for the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration where officers are trained for the Indian Administrative Service and the Indian Police Service. Mussoorie has several European schools, which started during the colonial period. Some of the oldest and best boarding schools in the country are located here. Jolly Grant Airport at Dehradun is the nearest airport, which is about 58 km from Mussoorie. It is well connected by flight with Delhi. The nearest railhead is at Dehradun, 34 km from Mussoorie. It has trains from Delhi, Okha, Indore, Trivandrum, Ujjain, Madurai, Saharanpur, Mumbai, Allahabad, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Amritsar, Howrah and Kathgodam. Mussoorie has two bus stations, Library Bus Stand (inter-state buses) and Picture Palace Bus Station (buses to nearby places). It has buses from Delhi, Dehradun, Haridwar, Shimla and Saharanpur. 

Best tourist places to visit in Mussoorie:

Gun Hill - The highest peak in Mussoorie is one of the major attractions in Mussoorie. Due to an unexpected gunfire on this peak heard by the local people, it used to be called as Gun Hill. We took a rope car from Kutchery on the Mall to reach this place in about 40 minutes Here we got an opportunity to see the stunning beauty of Doon Valley...

Cloud's End – Built in 1838, A beautiful bungalow flanked by dense forests with great variety of flora and fauna turned into a hotel and became major tourist attraction of Mussoorie. We were spellbound seeing the snow capped Himalayas and the sky-blue river Yamuna from here.

The Mall – Stretches from Picture Palace at its eastern end to the Public Library at its western end. In one of the bookshops here we located the famous novel writer Ruskin Bond. A book autographed by him was presented to us. Indians are Not Allowed". Racist signs of this type used to be commonplace here founded by' the British. Motilal Nehru, father of Jawaharlal Nehru, used to violate this rule every day during his visits to Mussoorie and paid fine without any hesitations.

Lal Tibba – At a height of 7500 ft is another attraction of Mussoorie with an average elevation of about 2005.5 metres. The other name for this place is a lovely lookout point within a short distance of actual peak

Kempty Falls - One of the main attractions of Mussoorie, situated at an altitude of 4,500 ft, on way between Dehradun-Mussoorie road is is a beautiful waterfall, which falls from a height of about 40 ft from a mountain. This place was developed by Lord Mekinan in 1835 as a tourist spot. Its name is derived from Camp-Tea. , the Britishers during their Raj used to organized team parties near this falls. A pond under the falls used by many tourists for bathing.

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Best time of the year to visit Mussoorie is September to May. In rainy seasons people avoid this place because of torrential rain and landslides. Mussoorie has some of the best luxury and budget hotels. The can be booked on line with the help of trip-advisor or make-my-trip. Distance from Delhi is about 290 km with 6 hours journey. Air and Train services are available up to Dehradun. Cabs are available at reasonable prices.

For more information please visit our website– https://www.theindiatourism.com/india-tourism/mussoorie.html 

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Visit The Desert City Jaisalmer - The India Tourism

Jaisalmer Tour Operator –  Jaisalmer is a former medieval trading center and a princely state in the western Indian state of Rajasthan, in the heart of the Thar Desert. Known as the "Golden City," it's distinguished by its yellow sandstone architecture. Dominating the skyline is Jaisalmer Fort, a sprawling hilltop citadel buttressed by 99 bastions. Behind its massive walls stand the ornate Maharaja's Palace and intricately carved Jain temples. 



Jaisalmer Fort - The Jaisalmer Fort also goes by the name Sonar Quila (Golden Fort) as it rises from the desert itself and seems to become one with the golden hues of the sand. The setting sun adds its own magic and shrouds the fort with mystique. The fort is constructed in the classic style of the royals by local craftsmen. This fort is a world heritage site and forms an important plot point in one of Satyajit Ray’s famous Feluda stories and corresponding movie, Sonar Kela (The Golden Fortress).



Jaisalmer Government Museum -  Established by the Department of Archaeology and Museums, it is a prime attraction for tourists visiting Jaisalmer. The most striking display is the trophy of Rajasthan‘s state bird Godawan (the great Indian bustard). Traditional household items, rock-cut crockery, jewellery and statues from the 7th and 9th century AD displayed here are remnants of the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli -Two architect brothers built Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli in the 19th century. They worked on the haveli from two sides and the outcome is a beautiful blend of the symmetrical construction. Miniature style paintings and mighty tuskers carved out of yellow sandstone are used for decoration.



Salim Singh ki Haveli -This haveli was built in the first half of the 18th century and a part of it is still occupied by descendants of the original residents. The high arched roof is supported by carved brackets designed in the shape of peacocks. Legend has it that there were two additional wooden storeys that made it match the Maharaja's palace in height, but he ordered for the upper level to be demolished.

Patwon Ki Haveli -mong the largest and the most elaborately carved havelis in Jaisalmer, this five-storey structure sits proudly in a narrow street. While the haveli has lost some of its early glory, a few paintings and mirror work art can still be seen on the inside walls.



Mandir Palace -The five-storeyed majesty of the Badal Mahal (Cloud Palace) is further enhanced by its pagoda-like Tazia Tower. Each floor of the palace has an intricately carved balcony. The Badal Palace owes its beauty to the skills of Muslim craftsmen who moulded the tower in the shape of a Tazia (a float that’s part of the procession of Muharram).

Jain Temples of Jaisalmer -The Jain Temples located inside the Jaisalmer Fort date back to the 12th and 15th centuries. The temples are dedicated to Rikhabdevji and Shambhavdevji, famous Jain hermits known as 'Tirthankars' (wise teachers who taught people how to attain nirvana). Like all other structures in Jaisalmer, the temples are carved out of yellow sandstone. They have been built in the famed Dilwara style which is known for its beautiful architecture.



Gadsisar Lake - Gadisar Lake was constructed in the 14th century by Maharawal Gadsi Singh to meet the water needs of his arid lands. Considering its importance, many small temples and shrines were constructed around it, transforming it into a pilgrimage centre and a tourist attraction.

Bada Bagh -About 6 kilometres to the north of Jaisalmer lies Bada Bagh, also called Barabagh (literally Big Garden). This garden complex houses chhatris or royal cenotaphs of the Maharajas of Jaisalmer state, including that of Jai Singh II. The location of the garden is such that it offers wonderful sunset vistas to tourists.



Desert National Park - The Desert National Park displays the best of the Thar desert’s ecosystem and its varied wildlife. The Park is formed of undulating sand dunes, jagged rocks, dense salt lake bottoms and inter-medial areas. Various species of animals such as black buck, chinkara and desert fox inhabit the Park. The highly endangered Great Indian Bustard, one of the world's heaviest flying birds, can also be seen here. In winter, the park hosts an incredible variety of migratory raptors such Himalayan and Eurasian Griffon Vultures, Eastern Imperial Eagle, and the Saker Falcon.



Kuldhara - The underlying history of Kuldhara has piqued the curiosity of one visitor too many, and makes it one of the most enigmatic destinations to visit in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. The story has a beautiful daughter, an unscrupulous minister, scared villagers, an exodus in the middle of the night, and no idea where the villagers vanished. This is not the story of a movie, but the unfathomable legend that lies behind the abandoned village of Kuldhara. Located about 18 km from the city of Jaisalmer is this old town that was abandoned by its villagers in the 1800s. It was like the entire town vanished in the course of a single night. With about 85 villages full of people, it remains a mystery as to how no one saw them leave; in fact, even to this date, no one knows where all of them went either. The village remains uninhabited to the day, in the same state that the villagers had left it, hundreds of years ago. The location has become a major tourist destination as people from all over the world travel here to revel in the mysteries of the past. The desolate outline of Kuldhara etches a story in front of your eyes, if you are keen enough to read it!



Vyas Chhatri - Located in Bada Bagh in Jaisalmer, Vyas Chhatri is one of the most beautiful examples of Rajasthani architecture. This old Brahmin cemetery, full of local versions of cenotaphs, is dedicated to Ved Vyaas, the sage who wrote the epic, Mahabharata. Filled with cenotaphs all throughout, this place is more popularly referred to as the sunset point of Jaisalmer. Every evening, hordes of people visit the Vyas Chhatri to get a glimpse of the beautiful desert sunset. Everywhere around here you can see beautiful golden sandstone chhatris that are covered in intricate and delicate carvings. A popular destination among tourists, Vyas Chhatri offers a bird’s eye view of Jaisalmer, the fort, and even the adjoining areas. Visitors can also witness a number of locals at Vyas Chhatri, playing Rajasthani tunes on the algoza, a double fluted instrument, making it an experience that astounds the senses.

Ramdevra Temple - Located 12 kilometres from Pokhran on the Jodhpur – Jaisalmer route lies Ramdevra Temple. While most people assume it is a temple dedicated Lord Ram, it is in fact, dedicated to renowned saint Baba Ramdevji. The temple marks the eternal resting place of Baba Ramdevji and is visited by people of all faiths. Between August and September, a large fair known as Ramdevra Fair is held here, and it attracts large numbers of devotees who sing devotional songs all night long.



Amar Sagar Lake - Amar Sagar Lake, located about 7 km towards the western outskirts of Jaisalmer, is a lake cum oasis lying adjacent to the Amar Singh Palace. The palace itself was built in the 17 th century. The complex that includes the palace and the lake is also home to several ponds and wells, along with an old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Numerous figureheads of animals carved in stone surround the lake, and according to legends, these carved figureheads are supposed to be protectors of the royal family. At one end, there are pavilions with stairs that lead down to the lake; while at the other end is a beautiful, aesthetically carved Jain temple. A peaceful and tranquil place, the Amar Sagar Lake is yet another spot in Jaisalmer where you have an opportunity to watch a gorgeous sunset.

Tanot Mata Temple - Some 120 kilometres away from Jaisalmer is the Tanot Mata Temple. Tanot Mata is considered to be a reincarnation of Goddess Hinglaj. There are many stories of how during the 1965 India-Pakistan war, Tanot was under heavy attack and shelling. However, none of the shells or bombs fired at the temple exploded. This reaffirmed people’s faith that Goddess the temple. Post the war, the Border Security Force (BSF) rebuilt the temple and today, the temple is managed by a BSF Trust.






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Bundi - The Hadoti Region of Rajasthan India

Bundi (Rajasthan Tourism) - Bundi is a town in the Hadoti region of Rajasthan state in northwest India. It is of particular architectural note for its ornate forts, palaces, and stepwell reservoirs known as baoris. It is the administrative headquarters of Bundi District. Bundi has many temples, so it is called "Chhoti Kashi".

Kshar Bag - Located near the Chhatra Vilas Garden, Kshar Bag, sometimes known as Saar Bagh, houses the memorial cenotaphs of the royal family of the Bundi state. It is located on the Shikar Burgh Jait Sagar Road.



Sukh Mahal - Sukh Mahal, a small, two-storied palace was a summer retreat of past rulers. Today, it is quite famous for being the place where Kipling wrote ‘Kim’. Many credit the palace as a having played muse to the renowned novel. In fact, part of a movie based on the novel was even shot here.



Raniji ki Baori - Raniji ki Baori, also known as 'Queen's Stepwell', is a famous stepwell built in 1699 by Rani Nathavati Ji, the younger queen of the ruling king Rao Raja Anirudh Singh of Bundi. This multi-storied stepwell displays excellent carvings of Gajraj with his trunk turned inwards, giving the impression of having drunk from the baori on its pillars. Its high arched gate gives it an inviting appearance.



Nagar Sagar Kund - Located outside the Chauhan Gate, the Nagar Sagar Kund, a set of twin step wells, was constructed to provide water during times of famine.



Taragarh Fort - Built in 1345, Taragarh is one of the most impressive structures in Bundi. While it may be a bit ramshackle and strewn with overgrown vegetation, the palace grounds are a great place for a leisurely stroll. With its curved roofs topping pavilions, excess of temple columns and elephant and lotus motifs, the palace is a tribute to Rajput style.



84 Pillared Cenotap - As the name suggests, the 84 Pillared Cenotaph is a structure supported by 84 columns. Commissioned by Rao Anirudh, the Maharaja of Bundi, this cenotaph is a tribute to his beloved wet nurse, Deva, who he loved dearly. A popular tourist attraction, this impressive structure is decorated with carvings of deer, elephants and apsaras.



Nawal Sagar Lake - Nawal Sagar Lake is an artificial lake that is a major tourist attraction and can even be seen from the Taragarh Fort. There is a half-submerged temple dedicated to Lord Varun Dev in its centre. What makes the lake unique is that one can see the reflection of nearby palaces and forts in its waters.



Garh Palace Bundi - The Garh Palace in Bundi is counted among the largest palaces in India, even if it is a little less known. Inside, the palace is a collection a number of palaces that were built by different rulers over the span of 3 centuries. Garh Palace is known for its Rajput architecture, which is easily noticeable in the jharokhas and pillars, many of which sport elephant carvings. Some of the famous palaces here include Chhatra Mahal, Phool Mahal and Badal Mahal, but one of the most famous ones has to be the Chitrashala, which has a fascinating pavilion and gallery of miniature murals. The palace is open to visitors from 8.00 am in the morning till 5.00 pm in the evening. There is a small entry fee that has to be paid, and one has the option to hire a guide who can take you through the stories and history of this beautiful palace.



Hathi Pole - The steep climb to the Garh Palace in Bundi ends at two main gates that are used for entrance. Of these two gates, the most popular is the Hathi Pole. This gate is a huge architectural feat that evokes a sense of grandeur. The gate has two elephants depicting blowing bugles, and was commissioned by Rao Ratan Singh. Marking the entrance of the Garh Palace, the Hathi Pole forms a major point of attraction in Bundi.



Ramgarh Vishdhari Sanctuary - Ramgarh Vishdhari Wildlife Sanctuary is located 45 kilometres from Bundi on the Bundi-Nainwa road. Covering an area of 252 sq. km., this sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Established in 1982, it forms a buffer for Ranthambore National Park. The best time to visit is between September and May.



Dabhai Kund - Shaped like an inverted pyramid, the Dabhai Kund, also known as Jail Kund, is the largest of its kind in Bundi. The fantastic carvings on the steps that lead to the water alone are reason enough to warrant a visit.

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Visit Famous Monuments Bijapur state - Karnataka Tourism

Bijapur (Karnataka Tourism) - Bijapur, officially known as Vijayapura, is the district headquarters of Bijapur District of Karnataka state of India. It is also the headquarters for Bijapur Taluka. Bijapur city is well known for its historical monuments of architectural importance built during the rule of the Adil Shahi dynasty. Bijapur is located 530 km northwest of the State Capital Bengaluru and about 550 km from Mumbai, and 384 km west of the city of Hyderabad.



Bijapur, one of the popular heritage city located in the Karnataka state of India is also one of the top ten populated cities in Karnataka. The Bijapur city has been declared as one of the corporations in the state of Karnataka last year.Bijapur urban population as per 2011 census is 326,000, perhaps the 9th biggest city in Karnataka. Vijayapura Mahanagara Palike (VMP) is the newest Municipal Corporation formed under the KMC act along with Shimoga and Tumkur Municipal Corporations. The other existing city corporations in Karnataka state in descending order of population are Bangalore, Hubli-Dharwad, Mysore, Gulbarga, Belgaum, Mangalore, Davangere and Bellary.



Administratively, Bijapur district comes under Belgaum division along with Bagalkote, Belgaum, Dharwad, Gadag, Haveri and Uttara Kannada (Karwar) districts. The civic administration of the city is managed by the Bijapur City Corporation and office of Deputy Commissioner in Bijapur. The office of Deputy Commissioner as the responsibility of rural areas in Bijapur, while the corporation administrates the city of Bijapur. Effective administration of the heritage city of Bijapur is the main intention behind all the activities of Bijapur City Corporation.



Bijapur, the land of five rivers and the domain of different cultures, is an ancient city. The city established in the 10th and 11th centuries by the Chalukyas of Kalyani was known as Vijayapura (City of victory). Bijapur was the biggest district place of the state with 11 taluks, but after forming Bagalokote new district in 1997 Now it consists of five taluks viz. Basavan Bagevadi, Bijapur, Indi, Muddebihal and Sindagi.



The city was established in the 10th-11th centuries by the Kalyani Chalukyas and was known as Vijayapura (City of victory). The city was passed to Yadavas after Chalukya's demise. The city came under the influence of the Khalji Sultanate in Delhi by the late 13th century. In 1347, the area was conquered by the Bahmani Sultanate of Gulbarga. By this time, the city was being referred as Bijapur.

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Bhubaneswar The "Temple City of India"

Bhubaneshwar (Orissa Tourism) –  Bhubaneswar, also spelt as Bhubaneshwar or Bhuvanēśvar is the capital of the Indian state of Odisha. It is the largest city in Odisha and is a centre of economic and cultural importance in Eastern India. Along with the old town, the region, historically was often depicted as Ekamra Kshetra (Temple City). With the diverse ranges of heritage resources, it showcases significant sacred cultural landscape components which have evolved with the support of available natural resource base and cultural trigger.

 

Although the modern city of Bhubaneswar was formally established only in 1948, the history of the areas in and around the present-day city can be traced to the 3rd century BCE and earlier. It is a confluence of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain heritage boasting of some of the finest Kalingan temples. With many 6th-13th century CE Hindu temples, which span the entire spectrum of Kalinga architecture, Bhubaneswar is often referred to as a "Temple City of India". With Puri and Konark it forms the Swarna Tribhuja ("Golden Triangle"), one of eastern India's most visited destinations.

Bhubaneswar replaced Cuttack as the capital on 19 August 1949, 2 years after India gained its independence from Britain. The modern city was designed by the German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946. Along with Jamshedpur and Chandigarh, it was one of modern India's first planned cities. Bhubaneswar and Cuttack are often referred to as the 'twin cities of Odisha'. The metropolitan area formed by the two cities had a population of 1.7 million in 2011. Bhubaneswar is categorised as a Tier-2 city. An emerging information technology (IT) and education hub, Bhubaneswar is one of the country's fastest-developing cities.

Lingaraja Temple – Lingaraja Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva and is one of the oldest temples in Bhubaneswar, the capital of the Indian state of Odisha. The temple is the most prominent landmark of Bhubaneswar city and one of the major tourist attractions of the state.

Mukteshvara Temple– Mukteshvara Temple is a 10th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India. The temple dates back to 950–975 CE and is a monument of importance in the study of the development of Hindu temples in Odisha.

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Visit Ranthambore & Nearby Monuments During This Rajasthan Trip

Ranthambore – 
Ranthambore National Park is a vast wildlife reserve near the town of Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan, northern India. It is a former royal hunting ground and home to tigers, leopards and marsh crocodiles. Its landmarks include the imposing 10th-century Ranthambore Fort, on a hilltop, and the Ganesh Mandir temple. Also in the park, Padam Talao Lake is known for its abundance of water lilies.



Places to Visit in Ranthambore –
Ranthambore Fort - The noteworthy Ranthambore Fort was built by the Chauhan rulers in the 10th century. Due to its strategic location, it was ideal to keep the enemy at bay. The fort is also related to the historical legend of the royal women performing ‘jauhar’ (self-immolation) when the Muslim invader Alauddin Khilji laid siege on this fort in 1303. The fort is characterised by temples, tanks, massive gates and huge walls.



Trinetra Ganesha Temple – Ranthambore Ganesh ji is very old temple on the palace of Ranthambore fort. It is very heart touch place for devotee and visitors. Ranthambore Ganesh Temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha is located in the fort of Ranthambore, about 12 kms from Sawai Madhopur It is said that; in 1299 AD, there was a war between King Hammeer and Alauddin Khilji. During the time of war they filled there godowns with foods and all the necessary things in Ranthambore Fort, where King resides. Since the war lasted for several years, the stock in godowns were over.

One night when King Hammer; who was a great devotee to God Ganesh, was sleeping, he dreamed that Lord Ganesh came to him and said that by tomorrow morning all the problems and lacking would be over. In the morning an idol of Lord Ganesh with three eyes*(Trinetra), embossed from one of the fort’s wall. As a miracle the war was over and the godowns were full. In 1300 AD King Hammer built a temple of Lord Ganesh and placed Riddhi Siddhi, his wife and two sons Shub Labh along with the idol of Ganesh. His vehicle mushak (mouse) is also placed there. Ganesh Chaturthi holds a special place in Ranthambore and is celebrated to commemorate the origin of Lord Ganesh, who is said to have been born on this day. The Ganesha temple in the fort of Ranthambore is one of the most eminent Ganesha temples of Rajasthan.

Surwal Lake - Surwal Lake, a beautiful seasonal lake, is situated at about 25 km away from Ranthambore. The lake is heaven for a variety of birds. Travellers are mesmerised and captivated by the beauty of this lake, especially, during the months from November to March. Surwal Lake is another popular tourist destination, which offers beautiful view of flora and fauna in Ranthambore.  This lake is situated at a distance of 25 km from Ranthambore. The ideal time to visit this place is during the months of November to March, when nature presents beauty at its best. During winters, many migrated birds can be seen at this lake. Plenty of birds which can be witnessed by visitors are demoiselle cranes, pelicans and many others. The place is mostly frequented by nature lovers, who can enjoy sunrise and sunset along with the chirping of birds. Tourists should avoid visiting this place in the months of April and May because there is no water in the lake.

Padam Talao - The famous Ranthambore National Park is home to one of the largest lake around this place named as Padam Talao. The name of this lake comes from the lotus flower (called as Padam in Hindi language) that grows readily here. It is a major source of water for animals and birds living in this national park. It is one of the prominent places where tourists can watch different wildlife animals as they often come here to quench their thirst. Wildlife lovers can climb the machans that are built around this lake and watch the wild inhabitants of this park closely.



Kachida Valley - Kachida Valley is situated in the outskirts of the Ranthambore National Park. The valley treasures an array of flora and fauna. A majority of the panther population of the park is found here.  Tourists can also witness sloth bears and deer in this part of the park. Travellers can hire Safari Jeeps to tour and enjoy the beauty of Kachida Valley. Kachida Valley is one of the picturesque and a must-visit place in Ranthambore. It is blessed with wide range of flora and fauna species. This area contains a majority of the Panther population of the park. The Panthers avoid venturing into the main jungle to avoid conflicts with tigers, which are known to kill them. Tourists can also see a variety of sloth bears and deer in this valley. Visitors will have to reach this valley via the jeep safari.

Jogi Mahal -The Jogi Mahal, an elegant guest house at the foothills of the Ranthambore, was built by the royal families of Jaipur. It served as their hunting lodge for many generations. This forest guest house provides all modern facilities to the visitors.ranthambore tour packages Jogi Mahal is a favorite watering hole of the animals of Ranthambore. Tigers, Leopards, Deer, Monkeys and Peacocks can be seen drinking at the lakes edge during the early morning and late evening. Machans or huts on observation posts near the Padam Talao are an excellent platform from where visitors can see the animals in their natural habitat. Genghis, one of the legendary tigers of Ranthambore was famous for hunting deer that came to the lakeside to drink. The hunting lodge called Jogi Mahal is situated on the banks of the Padam Talao. The view from the Jogi Mahal is a splendid one. Jogi Mahal was built by the royal families of Jaipur and served as a hunting abode to various generations of Jaipur Maharajas. After the decline of ruling authorities of Jaipur, this Mahal is turned into a guest house which offers comfortable stay to tourists during their visit to Ranthambore.



Raj Bagh Ruins - Raj Bagh Ruins are an agglomeration of prehistoric ruins including arches, palace outhouses, domes and minarets. This place lies between the Raj Bagh Talao and the Padam Talao. The Rajbagh ruins located along the banks of the lake add to its exotic ambience. The ruins of these structures consist of broken down rooms and outhouses with arches, partly standing walls and domes. The majestic tigers of Ranthambore can be seen relaxing in the shade of these structures in Ranthambore National Park. These ruins are what give the Ranthambore National Park such a unique mixture of a wildlife reserve and a reminder of the past, which together make it one of the most picturesque parks in the world.



Malik Talao - Malik Talao is best known as a haven for birds and it attracts a large number of visitors. The lake is quite important to the wildlife of the park as it serves as the source of water and food for the animals and birds inhabited there. This small yet scenic lake is also home to the Marsh Crocodiles. Herds of wild boar and groups of peacocks, eagles and various migrated birds can be seen browsing along the banks of the lake.ranthambore tour packages Kingfishers, egrets, herons, ibis, storks and cranes are some of the commonly spotted birds at Malik Talao making it the perfect place for bird watching in Ranthambore. Malik Talao is one of the lakes present in the Ranthambore National Park. These water bodies are vital for the ecosystem of the park as they act as a source of food and water for birds and animals. The lake attracts a large bird population that includes plovers, moorhens, herons, storks, kingfishers, kites and hawks. Crocodiles can also be seen resting on the banks while, at times, tigers are seen too.



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