Exotic India

Forests In India

2011-12-29T23:03:00.000-08:00

India has a diverse geographical, topographical and climatic features that present a varied and rich vegetation. The sundry natural ecosystems of the regions result variety of vegetation ranging from evergreen tropical rain forests to dry alpine scrub high in the Himalayas. Nearly 67.83 million hectares and constitute 20.64 percent of geographical area is covered by forest. It is the second largest land use in India next to agriculture. India forest areas are principally divided into eight distinct floristic regions - the Western Himalayas (extend from Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh through Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan, Meghalaya and Nagaland and the Deccan Peninsula); the Eastern Himalayas (eastward Sikkim to Darjeeling, Kurseong and the adjacent tract); the Indus plain that are the plains of Punjab, western Rajasthan and northern Gujarat; the Ganga plain; the Deccan (Indian Peninsular), Malabar (humid belt parallel to the west coast of the peninsular); the Andamans (rich in evergreen, mangrove, beach and diluvial forests)

Types Of Forest

Evergreen Forests (Tropical) - These type of forests are predominant where rainfall is higher and between 200-300 cm. Western Ghats and Sub Himalayan regions are covered with evergreen tropical forest. These are coniferous forests with trees having needle-shaped leaves and provide Teak, Rosewood, Ebony and Bamboo.

Deciduous Forests (Monsoon) - Deciduous forests are found where the rainfall is around 150-200 cm. Most of the Deccan Plateau of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka are places where deciduous forests are dominant. Most of the trees are Sal, Teak and Sandalwood.

Dry Forests - Rajasthan deserts and south of Punjab are covered by dry forests where rainfall ranges between 75-100 cms.

Hill Forests - Hill forests are mainly found in southern India and the Himalayan regions and provide timber like Oak, Deodar, Pines and Chi.

Tidal Forests (Mangrove) - Tidal forests are dominant in coastal plains, generally submerged on river deltas on the east coast, (the Ganga, the Mahanadi and the Godavari). The forests on the Gangetic delta in Bengal are called Sunderbans named after the Sundari trees in the forests.

Flora And Fauna In Indian Forests

In many parts of India forests enjoy a privileged position of religious significance and the wildlife gets a secure position. Although in last 3 decades India has seen a pathetic poaching that destroyed a large number of animals especially tigers and rhinos. The diverse India's climate and topography is reflected in its rich flora and fauna and famed for tigers, elephants, rhinoceros and varieties of birds and other species. India captivates the wildlife enthusiasts for long and attract overland travelers to experience the rich flora and fauna. India holds 80 national parks and 441 wildlife sanctuaries of which 19 fall under the purview of Project Tiger. India is blessed with over 2,000 species of birds over 500 species of reptiles and amphibians and 30,000 species of insects.

Traditional Arts And Handicrafts Of India

2011-11-03T00:37:00.000-07:00

Indian arts and handicrafts tradition has a great aesthetics and multifarious history, which reflects through its exquisite designs, patterns, intricately crafted monuments, temples and sculptures. Indian crafts epitomize heritage, history, social culture and even everyday living and it's a mirror of the cultural diversity of the country. From ancient times Indian Arts and Crafts had has a deep impact on the social structure and depicts the culture, traditions and style of living of that particular era. Each era has its own flavor and the political and social influences are quite visible on the crafts belonging to those times.

History Of Arts And Handicrafts

Indian crafts history dates back to Vedas when people involved in pottery making, weaving, wood crafting and crafted their artistic skills on the daily routine of their lives. During the Mauryan period India saw an uprising of spectacular artistic brilliance, which reflects on the relics of Stupas and Sculptures of Bharhut, Mathura, Amravati and Vaishali. In the Gupta Age rock cut temples of Ajanta and Ellora caves showcases the incredible perseverance and brilliance of artistic skills. Apart from that, artists were involved in jewelry making, woodcarving, sculpture, stone carving and weaving.

The Medieval period of Indian history saw a makeshift of art from north India to the Deccan and southern parts of the country. However, the artisan brilliance of northern India still flourished at its fullest. Under the Delhi Sultanate the art and crafts in the sphere of pottery, weaving, wood carving, metal working, jewelry saw a highest level of artistic brilliance of that era. The contribution of the Cholas and the Vijaynagar Empire in the medieval times saw an aesthetic inventiveness in the field of bronze sculpture, silk weaving, jewelry, temple carving etc. Rich and fantastic wood and stone carving can be found in medieval temple of Jagannath at Puri in Orissa.

Folk And Tribal Art

Indian diverse cultural and social dimensions are perfectly displayed through various forms of art and craft of the regions. Every region has a unique specialized artistic style and pattern, which originated in the villages. These are known as folk art. Another form of traditional art is very popular in India, practiced by different tribal called Tribal art. The folk and tribal arts and crafts are simple yet exquisite and showcases a colorful and vibrant artistic brilliance of tribes of India.

The folk arts and crafts has a great demand in international market because of its traditional aesthetic sensibility and authenticity. The simple yet eye catching painting of Madhubani, Bihar or Patachitra paintings of Orissa gives a strong impression of artistic creativity of rural people. Folk art is however not confined only to paintings, but also expands to various other forms such as pottery, home decorations, ornaments, cloths-making, jewelry and so on. Due to its popularity among foreigners, many fairs and festivals display folk and tribal arts.

Indian government emphasizes on rural and tribal arts and handicrafts and give proper support to the people who are engaged in the art. However, many tribal art forms are still to be unleashed properly. They have a huge potential in international market and display a wide range of art forms such as wall paintings, tribal dances, tribal music, and so on.

Click on the following links to know more about some of the famous Folk and Tribal Art of India:

Tanjore Art
Madhubani Painting
Warli Folk Painting
Pattachitra Painting
Rajasthani Miniature Painting
Kalamezhuthu

Further Read:

Ethnic Miniature Paintings

West Bengal Handicraft Association

Study Fine Arts In India

New Delhi Art Galleries

Wildlife of India

2011-09-27T06:45:00.000-07:00

Introduction To Wildlife India

Wildlife of India is diverse and fascinating. The picturesque hills and homely plains of central and southern India act as haven to a host of signature species like monkeys, tigers, elephants, leopards, rhinos and antelopes. With a remarkable figure of 89,451 recorded species of fauna, the country has some of the richest biodiversity in the world. Apparently, wildlife watching is one of the prime tourist activities in India. There are a number of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries offering opportunities to spot some of the rarest and unusual wildlife.

India has a substantial populations of panthers, leopards, snow leopards and jungle cats, Asian Elephant, Bengal Tiger, Indian Rhinoceros, Asiatic Lion and many more. Some of the Indian animals are ingrained in culture, generally associated with deities. There are about 2546 species of fishes thriving in Indian waters, which counts to about 11% of the world species. Around 197 species of amphibians and above 408 reptile species are found in the country.

Endangered Species Of India

India has an amazing biodiversity but Indian wildlife is exposed to tough challenge from the exploding human population of the country. As per the last census, India had 569 threatened species comprising 89 species of mammals, 26 species of reptiles, 82 species of birds, 35 species of fish, 68 species of amphibians, 22 species of invertebrates and 247 species of plants.

Listed below are few of the critically endangered and endangered species of Indian Wildlife:

Critically Endangered

Jenkin's Shrew
Ganges Shark
Himalayan Wolf
Indian Vulture
Malabar Large-spotted Civet
Namdapha Flying Squirrel
Pygmy Hog
Salim Ali's Fruit Bat

Endangered

Asiatic Black Bear
Asiatic Lion
Blue Whale
Chiru (Tibetan Antelope)
Nilgiri Leaf Monkey
Snow Leopard

Conservation Of Wildlife In India

In India the need for conservation of wildlife is often questioned against the vast spread poverty of the people. The Wildlife Protection Act was passed in the year 1972 to check the abuse of wildlife, followed by a series of similar pieces of legislation with high objectives but low enthusiasm to actually take any action in that direction. Amongst the very few success stories, one has been of Project Tiger, which was launched in 1972 to conserve India's big mammals.The tiger is of particular importance and Project Tiger was a major effort to protect the tiger and preserve its habitats. Project Elephant, though not as popular as Project Tiger, started in 1992 and works for the protection of elephants.

Famous Wildlife Sanctuaries & National Parks

About 4.7% of Indian territory is dedicated to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. India has 486 wildlife sanctuaries, 93 national parks and 14 biosphere reserves that overlap many of the national parks and sanctuaries. The biosphere reserves provide safe migration channels for wildlife and allow easy monitoring of biodiversity by the scientists. Some of the world renowned wildlife sanctuaries and national parks of India are listed below:

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: Kumily, Kerala
Nearest Access: Kumily (4 kms)
Main Wildlife Found: Elephants, Nilgiri Tahr, Tiger, Nilgiri Langur
Coverage Area: 777sq kms

Gir Sanctuary
Location: Gir, 42-kms from Junagadh, Gujarat
Nearest Access: Junagadh (42 kms)
Main Wildlife Found: Asiatic Lions, Leopards, Chowsingha
Coverage Area: 1412.13 sq kms

Kaziranga National Park
Location: Bokakhat (23 kms), Assam
Nearest Access: Bokakhat
Main Wildlife Found: Tigers, Rhinos, Leopards
Coverage Area: 430 sq kms

Manas Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: Assam, North East India
Nearest Access: Guwahari (176 kms)
Main Wildlife Found: Tigers, Rhinos, Elephants
Coverage Area: 391 sq kms

Corbett National Park
Location: Uttarakhand
Nearest Access: Ramnagar
Main Wildlife Found: Tigers, Leopards, Crocodiles
Coverage Area: 1,200 sq kms

Sundarbans National Park
Location: Piyali, West Bengal
Nearest Access: Gosaba (50 kms)
Main Wildlife Found: Bengal Tiger, Ridley Sea Turtle
Coverage Area: 1330.10 sq kms.

Read More about wildlife..

Balpakram National Park In Meghalaya

Wildlife In Rajasthan- Ranthambore National Park

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Wellness In India

2011-09-13T18:29:00.000-07:00

Wellness is a supreme state of mental, physical and emotional well-being. It implies an internal feeling of absolute freedom from worries or, at least, attaining the potential to keep the worries at bay or fight the adversities without getting nervous. It can be defined as a healthy balance of the mind, body and spirit that results in an overall feeling of well-being. The term wellness was coined by Halbert L. Dunn, a renowned physician from US, back in 1950 in the context of alternative medicine. Dr. Dunn saw wellness as a way of living for the attainment of highest states of physical and psychological well-being. Wisconsin-based National Wellness Institute defined the term as "an active process through which people become aware of, and make choices toward, a more successful existence."

History of Indian Wellness

Though basically understood as a western concept largely due to the "Wellness Movement" initiated by Dr. Dunn late in the 1950, wellness is not to India. Its root can be traced to the ancient Indian Holy Scriptures such as the 'Vedas'. According to these scriptures, human problems engender in the mind and affect the thought process of a person. The physical predicament one experiences is the manifestation of mental unrest leading to the derailment of a person's well-being. That was the reason the ancient sages emphasized on the importance of spiritual well-being for a healthy life.

Wellness Need In Modern Lifestyle

Modern lifestyle has thrown tough challenges to every human being for remaining fit and fine. stress of work, pressure to perform, writing papers for the exams, running a family, and many similar responsibilities add to human worries. People across all age groups and sexes are equally affected by the transforming way of living. In this backdrop, one has to learn to keep oneself in fine shape while coping with the everyday challenges. For offering remedies to fight everyday blues and manage personal stress, many wellness centers sprung up all across the globe in the later half of the 20th century. And India has emerged as one of the top destinations with scores of such centres providing valuable alternative treatment methods. Following section would discuss briefly about the various types of wellness alternatives in India for leading a healthy life.

Indian Holistic Wellness

Ayurveda

Composed of to words, Ayu (life) and Veda (knowledge), the literal meaning of the word Ayurveda is the 'science of life'. Its a holistic healing science dealing not only with the treatment of some diseases but a complete way of life.

Ayurveda traces its roots in the four vedas, the origin of which dates back to 4000 years. It is known to promote positive health, preserve natural beauty and enhance human life. Ayurveda has eight specialized branches, namely internal medicine including gynecology, surgery, the treatment of diseases of the head and neck, toxicology, paediatrics, psychiatry and rejuvenation therapy. Ayurveda is not an artificial invention but a divine gift discovered by ancient Indian health specialist. In India, Ayurvedic spas are spread all over the country among them the most famous Ayurveda Shalas are found in Kerala.

Yoga

In the contemporary times, Yoga is considered to be the best method in keeping oneself free of diseases. Promoters of Yoga see daily practice as advantageous in itself, leading to personal well-being. India has a host of Yoga centres scattered across different states. In addition to the Yoga centres, there are many Yoga experts such as Baba Ramdev who organizes Yoga Shivir to impart the benefits of this practice among the followers. There are many forms of Yoga such as Hath Yoga or Ashtanga Yoga for curing specific types of personal problems. Ashtanga Yoga, or the eight fold path, is meant for the overall development of human personality while Hath Yoga promotes spiritual well-being.

Naturopathy

This is fast emerging as an alternative treatment method of various types of diseases. It emphasizes more on the elimination of the causes of diseases than on the cure per se. The proponents of Naturopathy believes that all the diseases arise due to the accumulation of morbid matter in human body and if there could be scope of its removal then that will ultimately result in cure or relief. There are many methods of nature cure for specific types of problems such as water therapy, air therapy, fire therapy, space therapy, mud therapy, massage therapy, acupressure, etc. A Naturoptahy physician helps with natural methods to overcome diseases and control the natural forces to work within safe limits.

Spa

There are many natural and man-made spas found all across India. Kerala, the God's own country, has a handful of spas and health resorts. Some of the well-known spas are Aranya Nivas in Thekkady and Arya Vaid Shala in Kottakkal. North India has also many spas such as Ananda in Gharwal district of Uttrakhand, Milap Mansion in Haridwar, Sunny View Arya Spa in Amritsar and many others. Besides, there are few group of hotels that includes Taj Group of Hotels and Oberoi Group of Hotels offering an array of Indian and foreign forms of massages.

Study Fine Arts In India

2011-09-01T11:35:00.000-07:00

What do you come out with?

BFA (bachelor of fine arts) as offered by the Sir J.J School of Art, Mumbai, and Delhi College of Art; BVA (bachelor of visual arts) as offered by the Government College of Art and Craft, Calcutta; or a diploma/certificate in fine arts.

Why do it?

Because you are a creative person and have a strong urge to express your feelings and reactions in an art form. You are imaginative and love to sketch and draw. As this is a form of self expression, there is a lot of satisfaction you derive from your work. Although the initial years will be a period of struggle, fame and fortune will come your way eventually. And moreover, these days, there are many other areas you can specialize in after fine arts, which can launch you into a great career. You can, for example, specialize in graphic design, animation design, ceramics, etc. opportunities in advertising agencies and media houses are good. It only need a little exploration.

What’s it about?

In the first year, you will have preparatory courses where you will be taught the basics of drawing, painting, design, clay modeling, sketching etc. you will have to study a language and literature and history of art. Later, you will have to specialize in one of the areas – drawing and painting (western style), drawing and painting (Indian style), graphic design/applied art, modeling and sculpture, ceramic art and pottery, textile design, woodwork, leather craft and toy making etc.

How long is a degree?

Four years for a BFA course after higher secondary and three years for BVA course after secondary examination. The duration of diploma courses vary. You can also go for an integrated five year course after class X.

How is it packaged?

In case of the four year course, the first year consists of the preparatory or the foundation course, with the next three years spent on an area of specialization in fine arts. Courses are typically designed as theoretical and practical work. There are annual exams at the end of each academic year. Outdoor sketching is compulsory for students of all streams. At the Government College of Art and Craft, Calcutta, there are 100 seats in the seven categories offered. The good thing is the number of scholarships and awards available here.

How cool is it?

Unlike other undergraduate areas, one should go for fine arts only if he/she is absolutely sure about the career he/she wants to pursue. For there is no turning back from here, besides it requires a lot perspiration and then some? But for the committed, the process of creativity is something that can keep one spellbound.

From outdoor sketching to studying live models, the learning process is very involving. The presence of famous artists is also very stimulating. Campus life is a discovery, from the intellectual aura to the close bonhomie with classmates, models and staff. The regularity of notes and classes is replaced by the rule of the muse.

What are the students like?

If there is a profusion of the pony-tailed and baseball capped in the campuses, it is a sign of the times. But lurking behind them, you will find the gangly boy from the village, or the girl in plaits from the mofussil, toiling away on a piece of canvas or driftwood. In general, the city bread show a liking for the more job oriented courses like commercial art, graphic design, textile design etc.

One thing common among most of them is the urge to be involved in their work. Creativity, for them is not just making something unusual, but an attempt to interpret the world in their own way. Thus observing and absorbing influences from everyday life, besides other art forms is a necessary part of their learning.

Where To Study Fine Arts In India?

GOVERNMENT COLLEGE OF ART AND CRAFT, 28, Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Calcutta 700016

VISVA-BHARATI UNIVERSITY, Santiniketan 731235

SIR J.J SCHOOL OF ART, 24 Tilak Marg, Delhi 110001

MAHARAJA SAYAJIRAO UNIVERSITY OF BARODA, Opp Drug Laboratory, Shastri Bridge Road, Fatehganj, Vadodara 390002

GOVERNMENT COLLEGE OF ART AND CRAFT, Chennai 600003

BANARAS HINDU UNIVERSITY, FACULTY OF FINE ARTS, Varanasi 221005

The Story Of Calcutta

2011-08-30T06:55:00.000-07:00

Hooghly River In Ancient Calcutta

The present clamoring Calcutta was once a place of dense forest where tigers, rhinoceros, snakes etc had merry time with the population here. With the advent of time, numerous changes took place and the city not only witnessed these changes but also actively involved in it. The name of this city too was not exception to these changes and the original "Kalikhetra" became "Kil Kila" for a short while and "Kalikata" ultimately.

Actually the changes occurred through decades and centuries. The experts' submit that this city emerged from the sea with a saucer shape. Actually the name Calcutta or Kalikata was established in the history due to the existence of a Kali Temple. Nobody can correctly predict the age of the temple. Kalikata was composed of three villages -Sutanati, Kalikata and Govindapore. The Kalikata comprised Behala on the south, Dakshineswar on the North, the Bhagirathi on the West and Salt water Lake on the East.

The three villages were in primitive time known as "Kalikhetra". Round about 12th century, in the time of Ballal Sen, pilgrims would come to this temple through the dense forest on horse back, and in Palkis. As "Kalikhetra" believed even now to be one of the fifty one "Ptihas", the "Saktas" I.e worshipers of the Divine Mother used to come in great number, to perform their Worship here as depicted in "Tantra Sadhana".

Birth Of Calcutta With East India Company

At the end of 17th century the East India Company with five ships full of various valuable articles set sail for India and finally they landed in Surat. After awaiting a long time the English merchants, with the help of Tomas Roe got entry in the Mughal Durbar. The English got the "Fireman" from the Mughal Emperor Jahangir by means of bribes and valuable presentations. With this "Fireman" the English had acquired the authority of doing business in Bengal too.

Though the Englishmen had the "Fireman" Mughal Badshah to trade, the SUbedar of the then Bengal did not allow them to do so. The Englishmen were subjected to harassment on the smallest pretext even after paying handsome bribes and ultimately they had to combat with the soldiers of the ruler. They had to face the ignominious defeat and was driven out of their settlement around the river Hooghly.

Job Charnock with his men took shelter at 'Sutanati'. This particular place I.e. "Sutanati" was not an unknown place to the ENglish leader, Job Charnock. After considering both advantages and disadvantages of the places he decided to make an English settlement there and lay the foundation of business for Englishmen.

The Company had no permanent settlements and their small tenements were often demolished by the local merchants. Charnock, with going to clash with the natives, asked his men to take shelter in the ship on the Bhagirathi after the day's business until he managed for a shelter on a suitable place. Ultimately he contacted with the 'Sabarnas", the Zamindar to sanction a portion of his pucca "Serestha" on a rent, where valuable articles and papers were decided to be kept. This may be called the first step of success of Job Charnock to strengthen his grip over Calcutta.

Kalikata soon became a lucrative earning place and people of all status from many places of Bengal began to throng the place. Smelling the atmosphere and also calculating the erosion of the control of the local Zamindar over Kalikata, the English proposed to take lease of Kalikata, (i.e Sutanati, Kalikata and Govindpore) from the Sabarnas. Ramchandra Roy and Monahar Roy and two others of Sabrna Zamindars agreed to this as they were also induced to accept the power of the English and considered them the protector of Kalikata.

Four Stages Of Life – Hindu Perspective

2011-08-14T01:38:00.000-07:00

Traditional Hindu Texts distinguish several stages in the social and spiritual lives of human beings, and rituals have formed to mark the progress of development, from conception to death. Life-cycle sacraments (samskaras) begin for a child with ceremonies for such events as naming, first feeding and learning the alphabets. These and other samsharas provide forms of education and a process of socialization as young men and women mature and take on more responsibilities within the family and the community. Intended to make a person fit for the next stage of life, each rite involves a degree of reconciliation with certain gods and atonement for sins.

The four stages of life, also call ashramas that are traditionally acknowledged for men of three “twice-born” classes are those of the student, the householder, the hermit and the ascetic. Special responsibilities are ascribed to each of these stages. For example, the student is enjoined to study and to serve his guru; while the householder has the specific duty of begetting children. Such responsibilities are codified in treatises, known as dharma-shastras, which prescribe duties for every class, caste and stage of life, and also provide guidelines on general moral behaviour. Women’s responsibilities are usually linked to the dominant male in their lives, whether he is a father, husband or son. In general, women’s duties are in service to their families, and they are entrusted with maintaining the health and welfare of their husbands and children.

The upanayana samskara initiates a young Hindu into the first stage of life, that of th student. This rite takes place when a boy is between the ages of eight and twelve. Traditionally, a student was required to undergo a rigorous course of study of religion texts under a guru in the guru’s house, in preparation for the ritual and social responsibilities that he would be expected to assume as an adult Hindu male.

The ashrama of concentrated study and celibacy is followed by the householder stage of life, which is initiated by the marriage samskara. During marriage, a husband and wife are considered partners in dharma: together they share ritual and social responsibilities that are centered on bearing and raising children and maintaining the family’s welfare. The householder ashrama is critical to sustaining the three other ashramas (the student, the hermit and the ascetic), all of whom depend on the householder for hospitality and alms.

The man is advised to enter the third stage of life, and become a hermit or forest-dweller, when he sees his first grey hair and lays eyes on grandchildren: these signs indicate that he has completed his social and householder responsibilities.

The final stage is of ascetic. In this stage, through complete renunciation of all previous attachments and identities, a person’s life becomes absorbed in the mystery of understanding the nature of the self and its relationship to the universe.

Hindu Marriages

A Hindu marriage is a complicated affair. The marriage known as vivaha, while joining two families in a social alliance, also celebrates the union of a man and woman as they enter the householder stage of life. This is one of the most important of all samskaras and involves elaborate rituals.

The marriage ceremony takes place after a prolonged period of matchmaking, which includes the consultation of horoscope in order to fix a date for the wedding as well as to ensure a harmonious and fruitful match between the partners. The ritual of the seven steps, which legalizes a marriage, emphasizes the fruits of this partnership. The ceremonies culminate with a magnificent wedding feast, during which it is customary for the newly married couple to ladle clarified butter onto the plate of each guest.

Indian Writers No Longer Knock Foreign Doors: Big Fat Indian Publishers Here

2011-08-12T23:59:00.000-07:00

Sarat Chandra Chattopadhay or say Munsi Premchand were born in the wrong era, as it seems. Devdas, the famous tale of infamous protagonist was written by Sarat Chandra in 1917, and in 2002, after almost a century later, the novel was portrayed on the silver screen, of course in a gross distorted manner. In the present time, writers are conscious, not for the plot, storytelling or say subject, but aware of futuristic movie they see based on their literature. Even more conscious are publishers, as they have suddenly discovered the untapped market of book reading and transformed them from a tight fisted circle to a big fat money supplying machine, even before the actual work. For the past few months, they have been punting dizzily on manuscripts by untried Indian authors, coughing up millions in advance royalties. Even the hype is so high, literary agents seek publishers from West, demanding fat checks for not so fat literature.

Take Palash Mehrotra, for instance. The young schoolmaster aspired to become a writer. He searched for literary agency and sent them his book proposal. He caught a fat literary agency in UK, AP Watt, who replied him with three publishers – Rupa, Penguin and Harper Collins. Rupa, after a bidding war won the publishing right of Mehrotra’s as yet unwritten book on a generation straddling two worlds: socialist India and global India. ‘The Butterfly Generation’ fetched him a handsome 10,000 pounds. He left his job as a teacher and full time devoted time to writing.

Book auctions are now very much a part of publishing trade in India. India still doesn’t have big publishing houses, and as the matter of fact, Indian writers are quite popular in global scenario, thanks to Bookers, Pulitzer and other prizes. The attitude has changed. Instead of waiting for some alms from literary agents, Indian publishers are now throwing dollars in a bid to grab the attention of literary agents and to be taken seriously by the global publishing fraternity.

The scenario has changed. Indian writers now don’t have to run after publishers with their manuscripts in a begging bowl. Book auctions in the capital city are grabbing advances for local writers from a diminutive few thousands to lakhs. Take example of a first time writer Karan Bajaj who presented his debut novel, ‘Keep Off the Grass’, to a literary agent, Osian’s Renuka Chatterjee. His advance rose to paltry sum to Rs. 1 Lakh.

The apartheid between local authors and Diasporas has been changing fast in Indian market. The Diaspora style of storytelling is becoming old, Indian readers do not want to read the books through the eyes of the diaspora.

The high advances trend work in two ways: some of them doll out unrealistic large advances. And in another where the publisher’s neck on the lines and the royalty depends on the selling of the book.

Top Indian Writers’ Paychecks

Amitav Ghosh | SEA OF POPPIES TRILOGY
Advance received: Rs. 44 lakhs
Genre: An epic trilogy combining the drama of individuals lives with history’s big themes

Aravind Adiga | THE WHITE TIGER
Advance received: Rs. 14 lakh
Genre: Fiction, a slim novel about India’s globalization in the form of a letter from a village-born driver to China’s premier

Nandan Nilekani | IMAGING INDIA
Advance received: Rs. 14 Lakhs
Genre: Non fiction, A blueprint for India pinpointing the ideas that have shaped us over the last 60 years.

Tarun Tejpal | THE STORY OF MY ASSASSINS
Advance received: Rs. 22 Lakh
Genre: Fiction, About a journalist who attracts the ire of the government on account of his outspoken politics

Dev Anand | ROMANCING WITH LIFE
Advance received: Rs 15 lakh
Genre: Memoir, Kiss-and-tell story of Dev Anand’s many loves

New Indian Writer’s Paycheck

Palash Mehrothra | THE BUTTERFLY GENERATION
Advance received: Rs.8 Lakh
Non fiction: Part memoir, part travelogue, the book is about two Indias and the urban young today

Shrabani Basu | VICOTORIA & ABDUL
Advanced received: Rs. 6.3 Lakh
Non fiction: The story of Queen Victoria’s close relationship with her Indian servant, Abdul Kareem

Tony S’Souza | THE KONKANS
Advance received: Rs. 3-4 Lakh
Fiction: A romantic comedy and family saga incorporating Konkan history and moving ahead to their life in the US

Make Your Home At Indian Homestays

2011-08-04T00:40:00.001-07:00

There is a popular proverb that says “make home everywhere”. With soaring inflation rates, the proverb seems to mean for some capitalists. Even nowadays, that capitalist will have to run for money in case he/she wishes to implement it literally. So! The proverb ambiguously means a person should have friends everywhere. Here, again, I have manipulated this proverb with an intention to give you an introduction of the current trend of Hotel Industry. Hotel and home are completely different sectors, although very much related with each other as both are meant to provide shelter. Feeling dislocated? Take a dip to the brief below.

There are hospitable families in India that have ventured into the hotel industry with an idea to make their home a modestly priced accommodation. These families are amiable and provide amenities like station and airport pickups, homemade food, safe drinking water, homely bed, and much more, depending upon the charges. In case you are a foreign national, the homestay trend provides you an opportunity to peek in the real India. You can find majority of Homestays in Delhi, Kerala, and Rajasthan. These are largely run by middle class or active retired professionals. Among all these, I assure you that most of the families follow the traditional Indian culture of treating guests i.e. 'Atithi Devo Bhavah'. Being a traveler, you will surely take back lots of love and a long lasting relationship. Obviously, you are going to give something back; a promise to come back again. Friends forever!

Here is the list of popular Homestay options in India. Some of them are luxurious, real manifestation of India treasury, few of them are affordable, and the others are an opportunity to come closure to Indians, Indian lifestyle, and natural bounty.
Sirohi House-Old Delhi

Just two metro stops from the famous Chandni Chowk and you land up to this beautiful mansion, formerly owned by the Maharaja of Sirohi. Leaving the thick throng behind, this place gives you a moment of belief, that India is the most culturally beautiful country, and the disbelief, that a place can beautiful to this extent, so chirpy yet soothing and serene. Inside the doors, you will find chandeliers, embellished fireplaces, Hindu temple, carved hardwood, and antiques. You will get the option of two standard doubles and two suites, decked with Indian handicrafts. The amenities include air conditions, cable TV, European style bathrooms, and plush communal rooms inclusive of cocktail lounge with bar. It believes that good food is mandatory for travelers and thus serves delicious meals, buffets, barbecues, canapés, and more. Enjoy the Indian capital in the most luxurious way.

Mr and Mrs Mehra's home, Dehradun

Panoramic view of Shivalik hills will leave you mesmerized in your calm and cozy room. While taking this view, you can enjoy the lip-smacking cuisines like Tandoori Chicken or the lamb brain Kebabs. Roam around in the beautiful and well-maintained garden and if you want a touch of adventure, borrow the Mehra’s car and driver at modest price and take a trip to the lush green forest. You can also enjoy the beauty and depth of misty forest from your balcony as well. This naturally assertive place is located in the Doon valley and comes in the circumference of capital of Uttarakhand. The owners Mr. Mehra is retired wool processing specialist and Mrs. Mehta, a housewife looking after the kitchen affairs.

Vikram and Paaro Ranawat's home, Jaipur

Make the most of your Indian trip by residing in the culturally rich place. Although, Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, itself is a culturally rich location but the heart of it is this magnificent home of Paaro and Vikram Ranawat. The latter is a retired air force officer while the former has an aristocratic background with her own clothing company. Their suburban villa flaunts open-planned living spaces, marble floors, antique modern furnishings, a roof terrace, flower-filled atrium, two guest bedrooms with an aesthetically designed private lounge, and a self-contained cottage in the garden. Know the Indian culture at its best by taking Hindi lessons, yoga classes, and tips for clothing, and more from Paaro.

Glenora Homestay, Wayanad, Kerala

Located in the 90 acres of coffee, guava, beetle nut, lime, peeper, avocado, and many other fruit and spices farms, Glenora Homestay introduce you to the land of agriculture, India, in the most artistic and luxurious way. This “farm tourism provider” belongs to amicable Rajgopal family where aristocracy is the way of living. Three artistically lighted well furnished rooms with latest amendments in the form of two cottages on the stilts make the place a choice of someone to whom success means celebration of life in every moment. Get one to one with the species ruling the woods such as monkeys, birds, and more. The adventurous rides are inclusive of trips to Meenmutty Falls, Sunrise Valley, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Jeep Safaris, and many more.

Capella, Northern Goa

In between the town of Mapusa and Baga beach locates this exotic Capella, a homestay that invites travelers from all over the globe. The owners, Ayesha, a former journalist and. Jamshed, an ex-merchant mariner have together structured this traditional style house. There are three spacious guestrooms-two in the house and other located in a self-contained cottage. Here, you can experience the well-furnished antique beds and snazzy modern bathrooms. Enjoy the homemade traditional Indian cuisines and drinks from the honesty bar. A marvelous beach is away from just 15 minutes’ drive.

Spiti Homestay, Himachal Pradesh

The unique bunch of homestay where the whole community is engaged in welcoming people. The 14 families live at high-altitude villages all in the isolated Pin Valley, set against the frosted peaks of the Himalayas. The rooms are rough, toilets are composting squats and you will get enough hot water. The rooms are clean and vibrant with rugs and folksy fabrics. You will get home cooked typical Spitian food overlooking big mountains, smiling faces and perhaps a lazy yak safari.

New Delhi’s Art Galleries

2011-08-01T22:45:00.000-07:00

In a quiet revolution that’s passed almost unnoticed by the well hoi polloi, New Delhi has not only become the capital of modern and contemporary art, but its most happening events now centre around it as well. Of course, not everyone has a reason to celebrate. The distinction that Mumbaikars were more exposed and better educated in matters of art has now been debunked and along with Delhi’s serious buying power, has resulted in a proliferation of art galleries spread throughout the city.

• Naren Bhiku Ram Jain’s Art Mall – Located at the Mukherjee Nagar, is a three capacious floors of mostly mediocre art that the promoter hopes will attract the masses. In apartments and garages, just as the fashion designers had once opened boutiques tacky galleries are chasing the hope of big money and bigger artists.

• Delhi Art Gallery – Located in posh Hauz Khas, Ashish Anand came virtually out of nowhere a decade ago, to create one of the most stunning centers for art in the city. The gallery has one of the best collections of art and this allows him to put together retrospectives of artists along with spectacular book launches archiving their work and processes. In fact, catalogues are increasingly giving way to books as gallerists woo collectors with information and gloss. Anand’s collection at the Delhi Art Gallery is now a formidable one, rumored by some to be among the largest in the country, and certainly in the top three.

• Bodhi Art Gallery – Amit Judge’s Bodhi Art Gallery (the original at Qutab Institutional Area was sealed by the Delhi government), which works mostly with contemporary artists with an international buzz, has managed to create a brand that though homegrown in Delhi and nurtured in Gurgaon, is also now in Mumbai, Singapore and New York, Bodhi’s show are low key events, attract only serious art lovers and collectors, but its list of publications is well researched and has possibly the highest archival value of all.

• Visual Arts Gallery – It is located at the India Habitat Centre that is the most high voltage arts address in New Delhi. Every few days, or at most every week, some of the best curated shows, booked by galleries in Delhi, or elsewhere, present works by India’s senior most, best or aspiring artists. This is the heartbeat then of not just the art fraternity in the capital but the country as a whole. One any day, sculptures or photographs or watercolors or oils or mixed media or installations or experimental art can be seen mounted, being taken down, being assembled.

Khajuraho Story

2011-07-30T07:17:00.000-07:00

Built over a span of 100 years, 950 AD to 1050 AD, in bursts of creativity, the Khajuraho temples has been inscribed on the World Heritage List for their outstanding universal value and human creative genius. The mural depicts the life and times of the Chandelas, and celebrate the erotic state of being. Khajuraho or Khajur Vahika derives its name from the golden gate palms abound a plenty in the region.

Khajuraho is not just another sleepy hamlet of India, but a tourist paradise where thousands of tourists every year throng the place. The 25 Indo-Aryan architecture stle temples do the explanation. The explicit sexual friezes in fine sandstone and granite, ever since Khajuraho’s rediscovery by the East India company military officer, TS Burt, in 1839, spawn an uninhibited carnal celebration.

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History Of Khajuraho

History says the Rajput rulers Chandelas, ordered and aided the construction of Khajuraho temples while they reigned over the area now known as Bundelkhand region. With the wane of the Chandela Empire, these magnificent temples lay neglected, and vulnerable to the ravages of nature. It was only in this century, that they were rediscovered and restored, though only 25 of the original 85 survived and stand in varying stages of preservation. The Chandelas were believers of the Tantric cult, which emphasizes that gratification of earthly desires is a step towards attaining ultimate liberation.

Architecture Of Khajuraho Temple

The temples are clustered into three geographical divisions: the Western group with temples of Shiva and Vishnu, the Eastern group with a mixture of Hindu and Jain temples, and the Southern group with the Chaturbhuj and the Duladeo temples. The Western group is the best known, because it is to this group that the largest and most typical Khajuraho temple Kandariya Mahadev belongs. Perfectly symmetrical, it soars 31 meters high. The grand dimensions, symmetrical proportions and superb sculptural embellishments mark it out as the most evolved and finished achievement of the central Indian building style and one of the sublimest creations of Indian architecture.

A typical Khajuraho temple sits upon a lofty stone terrace with a distinct upward direction to their build, further enhanced by several vertical projections to simulate the effect of an overall lightness. The three main compartments are the entrance, ardhamandapa, assembly hall or the mandapa, and the actual sanctum or the garbha griha.

It has largely been acknowledged that the temples have in their makeup, an overwhelming influence of the Tantrik cult. But how the Tantrik cult, and its approach came into being in these captivating sculptures in Khajuraho remains a mystery. It is also surprising, how the followers of the Tantrik cult became so predominant that they could build such majestic edifices for the propagation of their beliefs and their doctrines.

Wild Holidays in India

2011-07-30T04:21:00.000-07:00

• The Great Indian Elephant Safari – Elephant safari is most wonderful way to venture into the wild territories and there is no better place than Arunachal Pradesh. Eastern Arunachal Pradesh is green and has dense forested cover. The elephant safari starts from Chongkham (130 km from Dibrugarh), a tiny cluster of villages in Lohit district, and the safari continue through thick forest to the small town of Wakro, and then to Miao, beyond that lays majestic Namdapha Tiger Reserve. It is one of the obscure forest reserves in India. The forest landscape is crisscrossed by small streams and rivers, and all of them lie in the Mishmi and Patkai hill ranges of the Eastern Himalayas.

• Birding Adventure – Harike, a small place in Punjab, just an hour drive from Amritsar is a different world for birds, if not human. The place is also considered as one of the important wetlands of India. The wetland was created when in 1953, when a barrage was constructed at the confluence of the Beas and Sutlej rivers. The avifaunas are well spread over the marshy shallow area. Over 368 species of migratory and domiciled birds have been recorded here. There is one big problem arise when the water hyacinth which chokes the water and industrial pollutants dumped in the rivers also harm the fish and bird life.

• Trek in the Jungle – Walking along the line of beasts is the best way to imbibe in the thrilling adventure. Although it is not possible for travellers in most of the national parks in India but there are small wildlife sanctuaries, which are equally thick forested, and where walking is allowed. One of these sanctuaries is Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary, in Kerala’s Thrissur district. This sanctuary is spread across 85 sq km on the western slopes of the Nelliyampathi hills of the Western Ghats. The forest is a home to sloth bear, elephant, deer, bonnet macaque and over 160 bird species. There are thousands of smaller creatures too, the most colourful of which are the butterflies – Blue Mormon, Sword Tail and the Southern Birdwing, India’s largest butterfly. The trekking is not so easy affair in this sanctuary, there are arrangement of tents surrounded dense forest.

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Spiritualism In India

2011-07-26T06:29:00.000-07:00

Each nation must give in order to live. When you give life, you will have life; when you receive, you must pay for it by giving to all others; and that we have been living for so many thousands of years is a fact that stares us in the face, and the solution that remains is that we have been always giving to the outside world, whatever the ignorant may think. - Swami Vivekananda

Being an Oriental, India's greatest gift is the gift of spiritualism and its not a category but imbibed in every grain of this land. The land from time immemorial is been recognized as a land of religion and philosophy. The land where wisdom put the first step before it ventured in another regions and India takes pride of being a nation where wisdom and philosophy do not march upon bleeding human bodies, never conquered anyone and stride not with violence but wings of peace and love.

Indian spiritualism do not contradict any other form of metaphysics because it says about the faith in oneself. The various ancient schools of philosophy says the same thing garbed in different lines. The study of oneness and realization of spirit within is the main motto of ancient seers and truth seekers. A constant struggle to realize the reality and renunciation from the worldly pleasures bestowed many saints and seers to got the realization behind the secret of this incredible calculation of the universe. The best part of Indian spiritual tradition is, not to contradict any other method of knowing the truth but to assimilate all knowledge and realize the ultimate. Unlike Occidental method of understanding the reality, spiritualism in India do not much bother about reasons and logic but with a constant meditation on Self and thinking about one goal bestows them with a knowledge that present an omniscience vision.

The foundation of India spiritualism and scientific heritage is found in the ancient seminal Sanskrit classics like the Early Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita and the Yoga Sutras. These sacred books are considered as an evergreen classics and contain wealth of wisdom and knowledge, both pure and applied that applies even in the modern circumstances. The sections are divided into two parts - Para Vidya(science of the imperishable soul, self, or spirit, i.e.,spirituality) and Apara Vidya (science of the perishable, transient and material, i.e., science). The science and spiritualism is finely impregnated and stresses on human health, growth and evolution. Both the branch do not contradict but fulfill each other. The study of spiritualism in India may not be direct but indirectly influence society through derivations of different text.

Religion Is The Beautiful Name Of Spiritualism

The spirit or self, according to Hinduism is a part of universal self. According to monist school, this is not dual but one self that shows different pictures in the universe, and within the power of Maya we see different pictures. Like if we understand one grain of clay, we can explain the nature of lump of clay, in the same way if we understand our self, then we can understand the universal self. This universal self or soul is called God. To understand and to made people understand, organized religions are formed. India boasts the origin of religion and all the major religions in the world are directly or indirectly came from a principle one theory of understanding the self. The environment of Indian supported and secured all religions in the world. India boasts the presence of multifarious religions such Judaism, Islam, The Bahá'í Faith, Christianity, Jainism, Zoroastrianism, Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism and many other.

Since in India religion is the backbone and preservative of social customs, architecture, diet, thought and way of life, therefore, one can find an unparalleled variety of customs, and social rituals in every part of the country.

Dodital Trek – Garhwal Moderate Trek

2011-07-13T13:04:00.000-07:00

Title : Dodital Trek
Category : Moderate
Duration : 6 Days
Location : Uttaranchal
Season : Summer (mar - june)
Autumn (sep - nov)
Grade : Easy

Although a moderate trek, Dodital invites lots of danger during winter, and especially in rainy seasons. The landslides are more frequent in this part of the world and without a proper guidance it would be a real problem. The trek is moderate in grade, although seasoned trekkers call it easy one, starting from the Bhagirathi valley and trek through perfect wilderness to a pristine Dodital Lake. The place is surrounded by alpine meadows and leads to Darwa Pass (4150m) to the Yamuna watershed. The place was earlier a habitat of the Gujjar tribe, the nomadic herdsmen who get their buffaloes to high meadows during summer.

Day 01: Delhi to camp Kuflon (1550m)

From capital city of Delhi, you either take an express train to reach Haridwar or bus to reach the same. Then 6-7 hours drive to Kuflon via Uttarkashi. Overnight stay in hotel or tent (if you find appropriate place to pitch your tent)

Day 02: From second day, gear your belt for some walk, from Kuflon to Bevra (2400m) is 8 km walking distance. It will take 4-5 hours walking along with Assi Ganges stream, and pitch your tent 1.5 km ahead of Agoda village. Go for a dip in Ganges to wash out the tiredness.

Day 03: Bevra to Dodital (3310m) 6-7 hrs

Third day is vital for you because you need plenty of energy to climb a steep trek from Bevra to Dodital. It is a hard trek and more harder if you have more than 12 kg of backpack on your shoulder, the 16 km trek will take 6-7 hours, passing through the rhododendron and oak trees with occasional SeaBuck thorn bushes. You will only find a small habitation in Majhi.
Day 4: Trek Dodital to Darwa Pass and back to Dodital. 4-5 hrs

It is toughest of all in this journey. Darwa Pass is perched on 4150 m and 5 km walk takes 3-4 hours. The entire walk is an uphill climb into a thick birch forest opening and finally opening into a wide meadow. The pass offers you an amphitheater view of adjacent Bandarpunch and Swargarohini range of peaks.

Trekking Tips and Suggestions

1. Carry all essentials such as knife, chocolate, rainproof ponchos, big water bottle, compass, swiss knife, medicines, lamp etc. apart from regular things like tent, sleeping bag, mat

2. Carry some winter clothes even you trek in Summer.

3. Before couple of months of your trek, start exercising and if you are a smoker, then stop smoking. Trust me it will greatly help

4. Avoid alone journey.

5. If you trek in a group, don’t put efforts to come first. It is not any competition. It will harm your body to put extra exertion.

6. Acclimatization is an important factor, especially when you trek more than 3000m. The air becomes thin and you will find a bit oxygen problem.

7. Your tent should have a separate outer cover for rain protection.

8. Carry a proper map.

Gita Press – Churning Holy Words

2011-06-29T03:01:00.000-07:00

Much before Ramayana was a gleam in Ramanand Sagar’s eyes, a tiny printing press made Hindu scriptures part of the middle class Indian’s everyday life…

The Gita Press, the old and rather majestic press, is one of the most authentic publishing house whose main work is to churn out whole of Hindu scriptures and transform into book form. Located amidst the bustling market of Gorakhpur is dedicated to publish Hindu scriptures from Mahabharata, Puranas to literature for children. The entrance is indeed epitomizes the Indian history in a grand manner – an entrance symbolizes Indian temple architecture while the pillars are inspired from the cave temples of Ellora, the gopuram is influenced by the Meenakshi temple in Madurai. Inside the house, around 150 employees are dedicatedly working their job – editing and proof reading, a man goes from table to table, room to room. He mutters “Narayana- narayana”, much like mythological Narad Muni, to people working there. Perhaps he was imbibing spiritual fervor to people, to work more sincerely.

The record publishing of the Gita Press can astonished even a cold man. Established over nine decades ago, this publishing house has published 6.34 crore copies of the Gita (in different editions) and 6.49 crore copies of the Ramcharitamanas, despite the large quantities that it prints, is unable to meet the demand from readers. In 2006, it consumed 3,600 ton of paper and had a sale of Rs. 25 crore.

The press has given an absolutely new dimension to book culture in the world. Perhaps no other publishing house in the world has so much success solely publishing religious scriptures and mythological stories. The stalls are to be found even in all the cities of India.

The printing press the revolutionized religious books, was formed accidentally. In the 1920s, devotees of Seth Jai Dayal Goyandka, a Gita preacher, suggested he publish his interpretations. The Vanik Press in Kolkata published a book but full of mistakes. The furious Goyandka started thinking about setting up his own printing press. One of his pupils Ghanshyam Jalan convinced him to start one at Gorakhpur, which was where Gita Press was first set up on April 29, 1923.

Gita Press is a name that is now virtually engraved on the soul of spiritual India. It has become synonymous with a pioneer, a publishing house that re-introduced the scriptures, religious texts and the Vedas to people, taking it from the portals of temples to modern India’s drawing room.

People And Lifestyle Of India

2011-05-24T14:16:00.000-07:00

India never makes anyone really prepare for her as the very nature of this land is elusive, a mystic entity where the mind boggling cultural cocktail astonish people, yet addictive - not to loathe but a lovely unforgettable experience cherish for long. The country displays an amazing mixture of ancient ritualistic culture and modern lifestyle at the same time. India showcases a multidimensional spectrum of people having various culture and lifestyle, which is indeed an incredible amalgamation of versatile customs and traditions, values and lifestyle - people here vociferously represent their own regions. Undoubtedly, the incredible diversity of culture and lifestyle of people owes to geographical diversity conditioned the entire way of life.

India diverse attire

Indian Clothing

Indian traditional clothing style greatly varies from region to region. Clothes have an integral part of regional culture and diversify country's connotation a little more. The attire of different regions is a subject to observe and reflect the striking lifestyle of the different region though not much separated by geography and distance. For example, the traditional attire of Rajasthani women is Salwar Kameez along with Dupatta or Chunni that goes with the colorful image of the region. The women of West and East India especially West Bengal and Orissa mostly wear sarees as traditional costumes while in Goa they prefer skirts and tops, trousers and shirts, wrap-arounds. The women of south India wear Saree while young girls wear half Saree and the men wear either Dhoti or a colourful Lungi with different styles and patterns. So one can observe variation of lifestyle through different attires of the country.

Indian Marriage (typical North India wedding)

Indian Wedding

Indian wedding is not just an affair between bride and groom but an association between two families and reflect the culture of particular society in every possible manner. Indian wedding is no less than any festival and more often stretches to a week or so. In India marriages are complex social ceremony with innumerable customs and rituals. Before the actual marriage ceremony religious customs and rituals play a significant role. Indian geographical diversity and culture largely affects on the customs and rituals of marriage. Every zone has its own way of celebrating the ceremony. For example Rajasthani marriages are generally of 8-15 days whereas in Bengal the ceremony is less illustrious.

Indian Festivals (Basant Utsav at Shantiniketan)

Indian Fairs And Festivals

The Indian calendar showcases a plethora of fair festivals throughout the year. Every season brings a new joy in the form of vibrant festivals. The festivals are an expression of color, dance, music and drama. The culture of India is well reflected through its rhythmic cycle of festivals, bringing out the true spirit of the Indian people and their society. The Indian festivals find their roots in the traditions, religious beliefs, myths and the seasons of the country.

Indian facebook generation

The Emerging Lifestyle Of India

The global image of India is progressing and has risen in many sectors like commerce, technology and others. With the rising per capital income of the middle class urban people, the lifestyle of people also get affected. With increasing complexities in one's lives nowadays, people are also looking for something more peaceful and comforting. Therefore, the age old holistic science of Yoga and meditation and chanting is nowadays prevalent in urban class. A significant development in India's recent history has witnessed the breaking the social unwritten rules for women. In general Indian women are predominantly homemakers but the emergence of new age woman sees a different picture all together. In the urban areas the cost of living makes both genders to work and as a result women are more independent. In the rural area also more and more women are elected in the Panchyati system and parents force girls to schools and colleges for higher studies.

Andaman & Nicobar Islands Tourist Attraction

2011-04-25T11:20:00.000-07:00

Located in the Indian Ocean and the Southern part of the Bay of Bengal, Andaman & Nicobar Islands is a part of Union Territory of India, attracting horded of tourists for its veritable natural elegance. The Islands are 70 percent covered by tropical rain forests and the seducing beaches are quite distinctive from other beaches in India. The Islands are the collection of diverse kinds of plants, and marine animals and interspersed with flat stretches of crescent shaped beaches. The place is also famous for various water sports such as snorkeling, Scuba diving and others. One can also find ample opportunities for adventure sports such as trekking, island camping etc. For tourists there are plenty of attractions dispersed throughout the Islands.

Islands

Jolly Buoy

Jolly Island is famous for renowned Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park. The park offers several marine lives and corals. The Island is a hot spot for various marine water sports and trained personnel are there to help people to help in snorkeling, scuba diving etc.

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Cinque Island

This island is famous for underwater coral gardens and virgin beaches. The main attraction is of course a sand bar that joins two islands that looks splendid. This is a very fine place for swimming, SCUBA diving, angling and island camping.

Havelock Island

This beautiful resort lies about 38 km from Port Blair, offering fresh air and fascinating beaches. Camping facility is available near Radhanagar beach. There is a guesthouse of Tourism Department available for the tourists.

Monuments

Cellular Jail

Cellular Jail stood mute witness of tremendous struggle of Indian freedom fighters who were exiled in this jail. The punishment was called 'Kala Pani' or Black Water. The jail is situated at Port Blair and draw people to see the solitary cells where prisoners were kept for long years. It originally was a seven pronged, puce-colored building with central tower acting as its fulcrum and a massive structure comprising honeycomb like corridors. The place is now declared a National Memorial by Central Government.

Viper Island

Viper Island is yet another Prisoner's hell during the British regime. The convicts who are far more dangerous were put in fetters and forced to labor in the Island. Notorious freedom fighters like Nanigopal and Nandlal Pulindas who were once imprisoned in the Cellular Jail, resorted to hunger strike and transferred to this Island. The place has some relics of the past British administrative buildings.

Museums

Anthropological Museum

The Anthropological Museum is situated at Phoenix Bay, showcases the life of the Paleolithic Islanders. The museum houses models of the aborigines tribes and their tools. The museum remain closed on Monday and Gazetted holidays.

Samudrika (Naval Marine Museum)

This museum is built to create awareness on various aspects of Oceanic environment. The museum houses a large collection of shells, corals and a few species of colorful marine fishes.

Time: 8.30 AM – 12.00 Noon, 2.00 PM – 5.00 PM, Monday & holiday closed
Entry fee - Rs. 10/-

Adventure Activities

Mangroove Canopy Walk

A famous soft adventure activity is to walk around Baratang Island with the 240 meters long Mangrove canopy. While walking around the Island there are display boards that serves as an open mangrove interpretation centre. These boards helps tourists to know the detailed information about mangrove forests and importance and conservation of coastal areas.

Bird Tours

Andaman & Nicobar Islands are the bird watcher's paradise. There are number of known and unknown species of birds are seen in the Island. Bird watching is indeed an interesting subject if one is passionate about it. Bird watching is a new activity on the Indian adventure sports circuit still the popularity is fast growing up.

Snorkeling/ Scuba Diving

Snorkeling and scuba diving are the most sought after adventure water sports in Andaman & Nicobar Islands. There are government recognized who conduct water sport activities in different islands. Some of the addresses are as follows: -

Barracuda Diving India S-6023
C/o Cidade De Goa, Dona Paula
Panjim Goa 403 004
India

Andaman Scuba Club Pvt. Limited
P.O. Bag 9, Port Blair 744 101
Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Calcutta Coffee House - Heritage of Calcutta

2010-07-28T10:36:00.000-07:00

In the midst of ultramodern coffee shops like Barista, Costa and CCD (Cafe Coffee Day), Kolkata still hold the pride of drawing a chunk of people to its age old coffee house. It's still a best place for the people in mid 60s or even older. Because of the proximity to college street, it's also a stamping ground for young bloods. The college street of Kolkata is specially famous for its book stores. All the major publications of Bengal located here. College street is also a hub of numerous colleges. Some of the prestigious institutes like Presidency college, Indian Institute of Social Welfare and Society, Scottish Church College, Bethune College and many more stand tall among many other colleges.

Albert Hall in college street was the major stone to built the coffee house. History of coffee house starts from here, which was found in 1876. At that time Albert Hall was the hangout place for posh Britisher, later coffee board decided to make a coffee joint and this way coffee house took birth in the year 1942. Once a stamping ground of Britishers, their families and children, senesced coffee house in Kolkata witnessed the presence of some renowned personalities like Rabindranath Tagore, and Subhash Chandra Bose. The place was a nest of intellectual activities and many literary pieces sprouted here.

Coffee house took pride of serving personalities like Satyajit Ray, Manna Dey, Amartya Sen, Aparna Sen, Mrinal Sen, Jagdish Chandra Bose, Ritwik Ghatak and many other intelectuals and artists, who were the regular visitors of coffee house. Several literary magazines, which are now popular now a days owed their origin to the inspiration from the adda sessions at this coffee house.

Still the same decrepit doors that open to a smoky big hall where people laugh, discuss, debate and sometimes romance. Still coffee house see number of people seems emerge from naxal period sport in long beard, kurta, slim looking with a cigarettes in their hand, always on their toes for heated political debate. Coffee house in Kolkata still has the colonial style wooden tables and chair, ceiling fans suspended from ropes, waiter dressed in white uniforms and tall turbans and wall of peeling paints. Really, in this era Kolkata coffee house fights considerably well with modern coffee house’s despotism.

Medical Tourism - India A Hub Of Medical Tourists

2010-07-12T04:07:00.000-07:00

Although medical tourism is relatively a new term but the concept is age old when people traveled to other places in search of better medical treatment. The presence of reputable medical services has often acted as a spur to local economic activity either directly or as a spin off. One only need look at the hive of small businesses bustling around the location of any medium large hospital to realize the truth of this statement. You not only find pharmacies, laboratories and medical supply stores but also a number of eateries, hotels, lodges, banks, general stores and transportation hubs. Secondly India has also for many decades now served as a destination for those seeking better medical treatment or facilities within SAARC and West Asia region.

Medical Tourism As A Part Of Globalization

The determining factor that lower costs play in driving medical tourism cannot be overstated. A heart bypass surgery in India cost about USD 6,500, while in the US it costs between USD 30,000 to USD 80,000. The great emphasis placed on keeping costs down makes medical tourism part and parcel of the process of globalization. The economic logic that has resulted in the transfer of industry and services to regions where costs of production are the lowest is the same that underlies medical tourism as well.

Health care is also considered as a service industry like any other industry like BPO (Business Process Outsourcing). India being a cost efficient country fulfill the needs of overseas people especially US and UK, and radically transformed the economic dimension of the country. Due to heavy medical expense in the first world country, the leading multinational corporations to off-shore and outsource business process and production to other countries, also compels private and national health insurers to encourage their customers to consider undertaking certain medical procedures in India.

Why India

The advantages that India offers as a destination for medical tourism are similar to those that make it an attractive option for IT off shoring. Much like the legion of engineers that dominate the IT sector, Indian doctors are educated in English under a medical curriculum that was closely modeled on the British system. In the last decade or so there has been growing private investment in medical education as well, with a number of private medical colleges being started. The cost of a medical education has been relatively cheaper in India with a bulk of expense being subsidized by the government.

A major selling point of medical tourism is precisely its ability to attract Indian doctors who goes to first world countries for better prospect. Newly returned non-resident Indian (NRI) physicians have served not only as the poster-boys (and girls) of medical tourism in India but in some cases have been prime movers in setting up such hospitals incorporating the latest in medical technology and medical practices, and often bringing with them their entire support staff in order to replicate in minute detail the environment of a first world facility.

There are certainly large sums being bandied about the full potential of medical tourism in India. A much cited CII-McKinsey study estimates that medical tourism can contribute Rs. 5000, 10,000 crore additional revenue for up-market tertiary hospitals by 2012. Leaving aside these astounding figures for the moment, a few preliminary remarks may be in order here regarding the larger effects of medical tourism for Indian economy and society.

Lower cost being the bedrock of medical tourism, this capital intensive service industry cannot sustain itself on temporary cost advantages. In order to ensure that costs remain lower, the industry will have to encourage, directly or indirectly, investment in medical education and research. This may take form of lobbying the government or accreditation bodies such as the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to periodically raise the quality of medical and nursing graduates and the standard of the medical curriculum, it may take the direct form of setting up new medical colleges with updated educational curricula and facilities, increased focus on research and development of various kinds, or more plausibly greater avenues for apprenticeships and training of medical personnel so that skills are continually updated.

Nagaland At A Glance

2010-06-30T00:42:00.000-07:00

Introduction

Nagaland is a colorful and distinct land, tucked in the extreme northeast corner of India. Nagaland is bordered by Myanmar in the east, Assam in the west, Arunachal Pradesh in the north and Manipur in the south. Nagaland is particularly distinguished for its explicit culture, tradition, and lifestyle that makes the state a singular entity from the other parts of the country. The state is dominated with Naga tribes who originally came from Southeast Asia and distributed all along Myanmar border and India. Except Dimapur, Nagaland is densely populated with this people and known for powerful and indomitable spirit. History says they are valiantly put off any intruders and even fought within their own community. Major Naga groups include the developed Angami and Rengma of Kohima district, the Lotha of Wokha district and the Konyak of Mon district where villages strikingly reflect a singular architecture of houses.

This exotic hill station of India is housed by 16 odd tribes and sub-tribes whose culture, colorful attire and jewelry are somehow very different and intriguing. The present Naga people have adopted western culture and quite modern in outlook than other parts of India. Most of the young generation are involved in fashion designing and other creative work. Nagaland is famous for its natural abundance of beauty; the picturesque landscapes, the colorful sunrise and sunset, lush green hills bestow an enchanting charm and an experience that can't be missed.

History

Naga tribes were originally from the Southeast Asia and settled around the border of Myanmar and some northeastern states of India. They were called as Naka in Burmese language, which means 'people with pierced ears'. Naga tribes had a close similarity with tribes of Assam and Burma in respect to political and socio-economic perspectives. During an invasion in 1816, Burma got control over the Nagaland and Assam and the period was notorious for atrocious and oppressive rule and turmoil. By 1892, the major parts of Nagaland was under the control of British and politically mingled with Assam. Most of the Naga people are Christians, owing to Christian missionaries who converted a large population into their religion.

After independence, Nagaland was a part of Assam but soon a separatist called Naga National Council demanded a political union of their ancestral and native group, adopted a violent means to echoed their voice, damaging several civil infrastructure and attacked government officials and buildings. The insurgency continued for a long time till in July 1960, a political consensus formed and centre admitted that Nagaland should be granted a consituent and self-governing state in the Indian union, statehood was officially granted in 1963.

Geography

Nagaland is tucked in the extreme northeastern corner of India. It is a mountainous land covered by lush green valley and mountains. The Naga hills rise from the Brahmaputra Valley of Assam to about 2000 feet and at the peak to the southeast as 6000 feet. Mount Saramati at an elevation of 12,552 feet is the state's highest peak. There are four rivers named Doyang and Diphu in the north and Barak and Chidwin river in the southwest crisscrossed the entire state.

Nagaland is enriched with exotic flora and fauna and covered by tropical and sub-tropical evergreen forests. Some of the main plants are palms, bamboo and rattan as well as timber and mahogany forests. The forests are rich in various animals such as monkeys, sambar, harts, oxen, and elephants, porcupines, leopards, bears and wild dogs. The great Indian Hornbill is one of the most famous birds found in the state.

Nagaland experiences a largely monsoon climate with high humidity levels. Annual rainfall averages around 70–100 inches (1,800–2,500 mm), concentrated in the months of May to September. Temperatures range from 70 °F (21 °C) to 104 °F (40 °C). In winter, temperatures do not generally drop below 39 °F (4 °C), but frizzing at high elevations.

Demography

Based on 2001 census, the population of Nagaland is 1.99 million and spread over 11 districts, 52 blocks and 1317 villages. The sex ratio of the state is lower than the national average. The state is largely dominated by different tribes such as Angamis, Zeliangs, Rengmas, Kukis, Semas, Aos, Lothas, Chang, Sangtam, Koyaks.

Culture & Heritage

Nagaland has a vibrant culture and an integral part of their lifestyle. The forests of Nagaland is enriched with bamboo trees and hence people are well skilled in weaving bamboo baskets and other crafts. Interestingly, the craft of Naga is restricted to men only, the Naga men knows how to weave mats of split bamboo, which is the chief material besides wood for constructing walls and floors of houses.

Cuisine of Nagaland has a distinctive flavor and mostly prefer non-vegetarian and hot food. Pork meat with bamboo shoot forms the common dish among the Naga people. The well known Naga dish is Anishe that is made up of dry yam leaves, which are smoked and then boiled with pork.

Different tribes of Nagaland have their own festivals and participation in the festivals is compulsory for every members of the tribes. Most of the festivals revolve round agriculture, most of the people are directly dependent on agriculture and lives in a thousands and odd villages located on hills or slope overlooking verdant valleys humming with murmuring streams.

Tripura At A Glance

2010-06-21T04:46:00.000-07:00

Tripura – a land underlined by verdant expanses and cultural fascinations is the second smallest state in the country located in the northeastern fringe of India. Rocked by a distinctive line of historical hot spots, monolithic carvings, Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries and wildlife parks, Tripura teems with attractions galore. Surrounded on the north, west and south by Bangladesh, the state shares a common boundary with the neighboring states of Assam and Mizoram on the east.

Though about 70% of Tripura population comprises of Bengalis, the state shows an eclectic mix of culture and customs owing to different tribal communities such as Tripuris, Reangs, Jamatia, Noatias, and Halams that have been peacefully coexisting here since ages. A microcosm of India with Agartala as its capital, Tripura has also been long associated with poet laureate Rabindranath Tagore, which extols its rich cultural scenario to renewed heights.

History

The earliest history of Tripura finds mention in ancient epics like the Mahabharata and the Ashokan pillar inscriptions of the 3rd century BC. As per early history, the Tripuri Kings ruled the land from the Kailashahar region in North Tripura during the 7th century. The 14th century was a watershed in Tripura history with the shifting of its capital from Kailashahar to Udaipur and the adoption of the title “Manikya” by the Tripuri kings. This Manikyas of Indo-Mongolian origin held their sway in Tripura for around 3000 years.

In the early 17th century AD, Tripura came under the administration of the Mughal regime, with the Manikya rulers retaining some of their powers. With the advent of colonialism in India, some portions of Tripura came under the British rule. Since Manikya Maharajas had good relations with the British, they enjoyed enough liberty of administration even while the land was under colonial hegemony.

On 9th September, 1947, monarchical rule in Tripura collapsed after the death of the last Manikya Maharaja, Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya. Tripura officially became part of India on Oct. 15, 1949. It subsequently became a Union Territory on 1st November 1956 and remained so until Jan 21, 1972, when it finally got its statehood.

Geography & Climate

Enclosing a total area of 10,491.69 sq km, Tripura is predominantly a hilly region where lofty hills and tiny hummocks blend well with the river valleys. The altitude of the state varies from 50 to 3080 ft above sea level. North Tripura has four valleys forked by hills with heights of about 1,000 m, whereas the South Tripura district has three hill ranges with considerable altitudes. Deotamura is the principal hill range of South Tripura District that stretches across a distance of 85 km. The two other hill ranges are the South Baramura and a part of the Atharamura hill range. About 54.5% of land in the state is forested, whereas only 24.3% area is available for agricultural use.

Typical of mountainous regions, the climate of Tripura is normally pleasant. The state records a low average temperature of 10 degree Celsius in the winter season (December- February). During the summer season (March-May), the maximum average temperature soars to 35 degree Celsius. Monsoon (May-September) is the longest season with frequent showers. The average annual rainfall is recorded at 2100 mm, with Kamalpur receiving the maximum amount of rainfall of 2855 mm while Sonamura receiving the lowest average of 1811 mm.

Demographics

Inspite of being the smallest state in the region, Tripura is the second most populous state in North-East India, after Assam with a total population of 3,199,203 (2001 Census). The population density of the state is 305 people per square kilometer with inhabitants residing over 4 districts, 40 blocks and 870 villages. Principal languages of the state are Bengali and Kokborak.

Culture & Heritage

a) Fairs & Festivals- Apart from the regular Hindu festivals observed throughout India, numerous festivals that are unique to the state are celebrated with great fervor and gaiety round the year. With 19 tribes dominating its cultural scene, Tripura has a huge variety of tribal festivals such as The Garia, Ker Ganga, Gajan festivals, etc. The Ashokastami Festival Unakoti in the month of April, Kharchi Festival in July, Manasa Mangal in August, Pous Sankranti Mela in January, Rasha Festival in November, the Boat Race at Melaghar in August, the Orange and Tourism festival in the Jampui Hill range in November are some other important festivals celebrated here.

b) Dances- Dances in Tripura reverberate the cultural heritage of its people. Garia dances celebrated in the middle of April where people pray to the God 'Garia' for a good harvest is the most popular folk dance of Tripura. Dances of the Reang community; 'Bizu' dances by the Chakmas denoting the culmination of the Bengali calendar year; 'Basanta Raas' of the Hindu Manipuris in Tripura, 'Hai Hak' dances of the Halams, and the Cheraw dance associated with the confinement of Lusai woman are a few other notable folk dances of different tribal communities in Tripura.

c) Art & Craft- Artisans in Tripura use simple items such as bamboo, cane, palm leaves and yarn to shape an exquisite variety of handicrafts, including bamboo screens, furniture, panels and partitions, lamp stands, tablemats, sitalpati, baskets, etc. Ornaments made of bamboo and cane etched with intricate designs are peculiar to the place and earn recognition worldwide. Exquisite silk sarees with rich pageantry of colors also reflect the unique handicraft of Tripura.

Tawang - A Spiritual Home Of Buddhist

2010-05-29T05:50:00.000-07:00

Tawang, the gateway to Tibet, the abode of Dalai Lama, spiritual home of the Buddhists, a tourist's nirvana. This magnificent town is a miraculous proof of the human race's will, perseverance and physical strength. Located at a distance of 555 kilometers from Guwahati and at a dizzying height of 8700 feet, it requires an perilous bus or cab ride through serpentine roads of the Himalayas. Tawang town serves as the headquarters of the district having the same name which is spread over 2085 square kilometers bordering Bhutan and Tibet. The temperatures are usually mild but can fall up to six degrees below zero in winters.

Tawang is an important religious site for the Monpa tribes whose numbers dominate other tribes in the vicinity. The 17th century Galden Namgyal Lhatse, popularly known as the Tawang Monastery, overlooks the expanse of Tawang's valleys and its gentle inhabitants.

Reach Tawang

The most convenient but pricey option is the Pawan Hans helicopter service from Tezpur, Assam. The 80 minute ride will cost Rs. 3000 single way. However, most people opt for the 13 hour bus journey beginning from Bomdila which will take you through scenic mountainous roads and the awe-inspiring Sela pass situated at a height of 14000 feet. One can also consider the shared taxis from Tezpur at Rs. 350 per head.

Where to stay

One can find a lot of options for lodging in the budget category such as the Tourist Lodge and Htel Gourichan. For a more confortable stay, one can choose the pricey Tawang Inn. Most hotels in the area are good value for money and are conveniently located.

Places To See In Tawang

The Tawang Monastery is a an imposing structure built on a ridge overlooking the western edge of the the town. The exquisite architecture and its stunning grandeur has lent this obscure town its identity of a spiritual and tourism hot-spot. Tawang Monastery, which was rebuilt with concrete in 1997, is the home of about 450 Buddhist monks or Lamas. It houses historic and priceless Kangyur scriptures in the Parkhang library. One may also have a look at the Sutras, Tangym, Sungbhum and a variety of other books which have been handwritten and printed. A 8.3 meter high statue of Buddha is kept inside the Dukhang which also houses the main temple. The principle deity of the monastery is Goddess Dri Devi whose Thankas – embroidered paintings are kept in a silver casket next to the altar. The monastery is gathering point for all major ceremonies and festivals in Tawang.

The Urgelling Monastery's importance in Tawang is second only to the Galden Namgyal Lhatse as the former is the birthplace of Tsangyang Gyatso, the sixth Dalai Lama. It was constructed around the year 1498 A.D., 5 kilometers South of Tawang Town. Prior to its destruction by a certain warrior clan of ambiguous origins, it housed various scriptures include the Kangyur manuscripts. To protect them, they were moved to the Tawang monastery. Currently, only a modest temple exists on the site.

A modern day shrine dedicated to the brave Indian soldiers, defending against the violent and invasive army of China, has been erected 21 kilometers ahead of the Tawang Town. Named after rifleman Jaswant Singh, who along with two other soldiers held their post for 72 hours and successfully stalled the Chinese progress, the Jaswantgarh Army Memorial is a symbol of bravery and sacrifice.

One can also indulge in some high-altitude trekking around this historic town. Tawang is a shopper's delight where one can find hand weaved carpets, wrap skirts and shawls. Wooden items such as spoons, masks and bowls are popular and can be found in the Old Tiber market.

Coorg – The Scotland Of India

2010-05-17T10:25:00.000-07:00

Geological formations in the Archachean era, about 2600 million years ago, created a captivating mountainous landscape with lush green vegetation and picturesque deep valleys and shinning waterfalls in south western India. This Kodagu or Coorg, literally meaning “Hill Country”. An abode of Gods in the mythological age, dotted by primitive dolmens in the pre-historic age. Coorg was coveted and controlled by various rulers of neighboring kingdoms from the 2nd century. In the 16th century, Coorg attained a separate identity under Viraraja of the Keladi royal family, who made Mercara his capital and he and his descendants ruled till 1834 when Coorg was annexed by the British.

Coorg or Kodagu home to the Kodavas, a unique warrior race, known for their rich traditions and distinct way of life, and to many other indigenous tribes is one of India’s most stunning and unique tourist destinations. Here, you start your day with farm fresh eggs and cream and honey, washed down with coffee and wild passion fruit juice and then go where you will. A trek, a safari, a round of golf, a walk through paddy fields and coffee plantations or just a visit to a fort, a temple or the palace. Nothing will disappoint you. Coorg will only fascinate you.

Places To See In Coorg

• The Madikeri Fort – Originally a mud fort, Tipu Sultan rebuilt it in granite. Tipu ruled briefly over this region in the 18th century. One can find two life size masonry elephants in the north-east corner and a church built by the British after the accession of Kodagu. The fort presently houses the state government offices, the law courts and the public library.

• Gaddige – Gaddige or the tombs of Veerarajendra and Lingaragendra at Madikeri is one of the important monuments of Coorg. It was built to commemorate the contributor of these people to the region. The tomb in the center, which is the largest, has the grave of King Veerarajendra and Queen Mahadeviamma. The biggest tomb has the grave of King Lingarajendra and the smallest tomb has the grave of Rudrappa, who was the Guru of King Lingarajendra. One can see the architecture was influenced by the Islamic style, with Muhammadan-style edifices with domes in the center and turrets at the angles.

• Abbey Falls – Abbi in Kodava means ‘falls’. This beautiful waterfall is a mere 8 km from Madikeri and is a big hit with locals and tourists, especially from the filmdom alike. Even during summers there is plenty of water in these falls. The roar of the falls can be heard from the main road, from where a path goes through the picturesque coffee and cardamom plantations right up to them.

• Golden Temple – This is situated near Kushalnagar, 30 km from Siddapura and known as “Byle Kuppe”. Golden temple is India’s second biggest Tibetan monastery, housing 250 monks. It has two universities and two monasteries. Although refugees, Tibetans have kept their culture and heritage intact. Tourists can witness their way of life, architecture; even taste Tibetan dishes and buy Tibetan handicrafts.

Colors of India

2010-04-26T08:06:00.000-07:00

India virtually holds miscellaneous cultures and lifestyles belonging to its diverse people. Its landscapes extend from the eternal snows of the Himalayas to the humid deltas of the east; from the dry heat of central plateau to the cool southern forest foothills. Food habits, clothing and skills of Indian communities differ with regard to their places of origin. A trip around India will surely cause one to stumble upon a peculiar traditions, costumes or artifact that will always remain truly Indian. Here we mention but a few.

Luscious Indian Mango

Once the famous Indian poet Kalidasa sang its praises and the Greek conqueror Alexander the Great relished its taste. And today, people all over the world just love it. Here, we are talking about the delicious Indian mango.

Nearly 1000 varieties of mangoes are grown in India, which makes the country the world’s largest mango producer. Contributing more than 50 percent of the world’s total mango production, Indian mangoes are vastly harvested in Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Orissa, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. Whenever you a pay a visit to one of these states, mango will be a part of you culinary delight.

Melancholic Shehnai

It is said that no Indian marriage is complete without the sound of shehnai filling the air of the wedding hail. Of course, most Hindu marriages are conducted to the tune of melodic shehnai. Apart from being an instrument of celebration, the shehnai has overtones of melancholy in its sound. When the Indian nation is in deep crisis or sorrow, the shehnai shares the dispirited grief of the country.

Also known as ‘oboe of North India’, the shehnai is a double reed wind instrument with a widening tube towards lower end. Comprising of either eight nine holes, the upper seven are for playing and the lower ones are for tunning. The shehnai comes under the category of Sushir Vadya (aerophonic musical instrument). During ancient times the shehnai was one of the nine instruments associated with the ensembles of royal courts. Ustad Bismillah Khan was India’s foremost legendary shehnai player.

Timeless Bidriwares

If you missed Charminar on your last Hyderabad visit, you really missed something. But if you missed Bidriwares, you missed everything. Though the craft of Bidriwares originated during the reign of Bahamani rulers in Karnataka, it spread to various parts of the country and finally the finest pieces currently exist only in Hyderabad.

Bidriwares are indeed exquisite designs with shining silver artwork carved on a dull black background. Bidri craftsmen are not just skillful but extremely creative in bringing these eccentric designs into existence. The erstwhile Mughal Dynasty of India must be applauded for these artifacts.

Tsunamika Dolls

The name itself almost reveals their story of origin. Tsunamika dolls reflect the livelihood of fishermen dwelling in the Tsunamika areas of coastal Tamil Nadu. In the wake of December 26 Tsunami tragedy, the livelihood of many inhabitants of the region was completely destroyed. Even the possibility of long term recovery – apart from immediate needs of food and shelter – was a big question. Amid hue and cry, a misanthropic group that emerged to rescue those affected people was an international community called Auroville. In an attempt to teach life skills to fishewomen, Auroville initiated a doll making workshop. This gave birth to the remarkable Tsunamika doll.

Though ther are made of leftover cloths and threads, Tsunamika dolls are more than mere dolls. Right from their birth, Tsunamika dolls gained global recognition for their attributes of hope and regeneration. A more remarkable thing about Tsunamika dolls is that they are not for sale. People give and receive them as gifts. Upon hearing the story behind the dolls, many have been inspired to donate funds to support the Tsunamika Relief and Rehabilitation Project that spreads the word about the dolls around the globe. Donations received from all over the world enable poverty ridden people to earn from each doll they create. Today, the term Tsunamika is no longer stuck only on dolls; it can also apply to hair clips, bookmarks and rakhi.

Indian Contemporary Fashion Statement

2010-04-20T07:33:00.000-07:00

If there has been one fashion story this year, then it has been bold, vibrant color. From bright rani pinks to loud neon greens; mixing and juxtaposing many colors has been the style mantra of the season. But of course, fashion always goes around in circles, so next year you can be sure that things will be less cheerful. There will be a more severe and darker take on style next spring. Two colors that nay have predicted to be the rage of the season are black and purple. Both have very bold yet mysterious connotations.

Fashion has become more serious and it’s about toning down the color without being boring. So if you want to stay one step ahead of the trend cycle, start looking for darker colors.

While Bohemian Chik ruled this year, look out for more classic cuts next year. Women will find that trousers will be straighter, jackets will make a comeback and the shirt is in for a revival. For men “bespoke” details such as pocket detailing and button through cuff will be the sign of a well dressed man. The suit is cut slim and close to the waist. All these styles lend themselves to the color black. And let’s face it, if clothes become more tailored, they will be less forgiving. Black will compensate for this anything in black just makes you look slimmer. According Kolkata based designer Shantanu Goenka, “black is universal color, after which comes red or white; people from every age to every gender wear these basic colors.”

Wearing colors such as black, purple and burgundy may seem a bit heavy for the daytime. You just need to remember not to wear dark shades from head to toe; to keep your look current, mix and match darker shades with neutrals or light colors. Dark bottoms always work well on pear shaped women, and at work men should keep things on the muted and darker side anyway, it looks more professional.

Traditional Twist

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Since India is known for its bright colors and love of everything vibrant, going dark when it comes to traditional wear, may seem a little incorrect. For men there is nothing more classic than a Bandhgala in black, you add that touch of color by going for colored buttons and look for a bright lining, a suggestion of color will add some youthful individuality to your look.

For women, a black sari has the same look. Obviously for a wedding a black sari would not be the correct attire, but purple, burgundy and Prussian blues work well. Though purple may be in fashion, it’s a color that not many can carry, so do be careful when choosing an outfit in purple. Again go in for more tonal or not too high contrast embroidery and embellishments. You mustn’t look boring, but nor do you want to look too loud.

Sway By The Sea – Coconut Bay Beach Resort

2010-04-14T08:19:00.000-07:00

Perched on a low hump at the very edge of the sea next to a rocky outcrop, the resort commands sweeping views of the beach on both sides and the shimmering sea. Villas and beach rooms lie scattered across four acres of terraced land, delightfully landscaped with scores of swaying palms, tropical plants, bushes and swathes of green lawns. Hammocks strung between slender palm-trunks and park benches placed strategically invite you to relax and unwind. Most of the villas and the beach rooms sit along the edge of the property facing the beach, while some are clustered in the shady backyards around the pool.

In keeping with the local building style, peaked tile roof supported on wooden slats is common. Cane and wooden furniture and an adequate bath and A/C, TV and a mini fridge take care of creature comforts. A wide deck in front reaching to the edge of the beach sporting reclining chairs, hammocks and beach beds allows unfettered views with only the beached catamarans and rocky outcropping between you and the glittering sea. Fishermen can be seen hauling in the nets in tandem, with the day’s catch – starting at the break of dawn and going on till the sun is high in the sky. By early evening, fishing boats venture out and as dusk falls lights from scores of these can be seen twinkling like fireflies fat at sea.

A multi-cuisine restaurant housed in a large, airy structure offering a commanding view of the blue sea is ideal for relaxed dining. While sea-food is a specialty, traditional Kerala food is popular too. The Ayurvedic centre here boasts on Olive Leaf classification and has some well qualified and committed doctors. A whole gamut of treatments and rejuvenating therapies are available. Most of the guests check-in for a week or one month long packages, ready for a strict regimen of massages, medications, yoga and a specially devised menu tailor made for each individual. At mealtimes, the restaurant lays out a special buffet with loads of aromatic, carefully prepared vegetarian food each marked with the kind of ‘dosha’ it is devised to alleviate. Those who are only on a holiday though follow the a-la-carte.

While the well stocked resort library allows you to catch up on your reading, sight seeing trips to local tourist centres and back waters boat rides offer a peek at the surrounding countryside and native life. Options include a day trip to Kanyakumari, a drive to the hill station Ponmudi, a trip to Allepy with an overnight stay in a houseboat or even a foray into the elephant camp at Kottoor. Shopping trip to Thiruvananpuram for jewellery, textiles and handicrafts is another prospect.

Hemkund Sahib Lake in Uttarakhand

2010-03-07T08:36:00.000-08:00

When I first went to Hemkund Sahib Lake in Uttarakhand, i wasn’t anticipated that it happened to be a cauldron of religious activities. Hemkund Sahib lake is nestled in the lap of the Himalayas at 4,572m and it is one of the highest shrines in India. It is a holy trip for sikh community and it is as relevant as Haj is for Muslims.

It is said Guru Govind Singh meditated here, a mighty gurdwara stands on the banks of a lake surrounded by the range of seven peaks. For eight months of the year, Hemkund Lake is inaccessible. Pilgrimages are mainly from sikh community but numerous travelers like are seen dipping in the ice cold water, which is believed to have healing power.

Rishikesh is the base camp, the trek to Hemkund Sahib take six days to complete. The trek is scenic, the river Ganga accompanying me all the way. I passed through some small and holy towns of Devprayag and Rudraprayag, Srinagar, Pipalkoti and Joshimath and reached govind Ghat. From Govind Ghat road is divided into two; one goes to Badrinath, the other To Govind Dham, Hemkund Sahib.

The pentagon-shaped gurdwara in Hemkund Sahib is designed like an inverted lotus. The roof can withstand the weight of heavy snowfall. Gurdwara has five doors on five sides welcomes visitors from every directions and faith.

How To Reach Hemkund Sahib Lake?

• Rishikesh to Govind Ghat – 250 km
• Govind Ghat to Govind Dham or Ghangharia – 12 km trek lakes 4 to 8 hours
• Govind Dham to Hemkund sahib- 6 km of walk require 3-5 hours
• Govind Dham to Valley of Flowers: 3 km, on foot require 2 hours.

New Releases – Books, Reflect Indian Sentiments In A True Sense

2010-03-01T08:53:00.000-08:00

• Title – Can You Hear The Night Bird Call?
Author – Anita Rau Badami
Publisher – Penguin Viking

This captivating book narrates the stories of three different women- Bibiji, Leela and Nimmo, who are intricately connected in love and tragedy with each other, over a span of fifty years. Their stories and lives collide with one another sweeping from the Partition to explosion of Air India flight 182 in 1985. Written with lyrical splendor and filled to the brim with poignancy, Anita Rau Badami’s capability of absorbing like a sponge, the sights, smells and sounds from her surroundings and weaving them into a story, has in a way recreated the magic, much s her previous bestseller Tamarind Mem.

• Title – A Poem For Cry: Favorite Poems of famous Indians
Compiled & Edited: Avanti Maluste & Sudeep Doshi
Publisher: Penguin Viking

An experience entirely unusual is what this book will give you. Maluste and Doshi, two brilliant youngsters endeavored and made their dream come true of creating this extraordinary compilation. It consists of favorite poems of famous Indians, living in India and abroad, ranging from the world of entertainment to sports, politics, corporate, literature and more… they are all her to share their favorite piece with us!

• Title – Saying From The Bhagvad Gita
Complied: Ashok Dilwali
Publisher: Niyogi Books

In the Indian epic Mahabharata, Arjuna lost control over his nerves when he had to fight his blood relations, mentors and illustrious teachers at the battlefield. Lord Krishna, in the avatar of Arjuna’s charioteer understood his despondency and advised him what he should be doing. This sermon by Lord Krishna, known as the Bhagvad Gita, is held in the highest esteem by the Hindus and others alike.

• Title: Saying From The Vedas
Complied By: Ashok Dilwali
Publisher: Niyogi Books

The word Vedas derived from the root ‘Vid’ means ‘to know’. It indicates a vast body of sacred knowledge revealed by the supreme God to the rishis while there meditating at the time creating life. Today the nectar of the Vedas is restricted to scholars and priests. This book makes a humble attempt to fuse the verses with nature photographs and distill the essence of the holy books for the benefit of the common man.

Kerala – An Ayurvedic Destination

2010-02-06T09:52:00.000-08:00

Want to spend a vedic holiday in an unimaginable peaceful ambiance? Kerala a mecca of tourism and ayurveda is also famous for its heavenly backwaters, seducing beaches and traditional medicinal therapies. There are chains of hotels, spa and resorts welcome tourists from across the world for yoga and ayurvedic treatment. There are five stars hotels like Kozhikode Taj Residency, which has full fledged treatment center run by doctors and masseurs. For their professional treatments, these star hotels are also called as hospital attached to a luxury hotels.
Ayurvedic treatment demand time and thats why most of the hotels and resorts doesn’t offer weekend packages. The shortest one is week long package. The treatment is a serious business, moreover patients are discouraged from sightseeing while treatment. At these ‘hospitals’ first patient are diagnosis and according to that they prescribe the necessary therapies. Therapies ranging from herbal oil massages, poultice applications, fomentations, the five point detoxification or panchkarma, which includes enemas and purgation, medication and a strict diet.

Apart from ayurveda patients are also given an intensive yoga lesson. Yoga schedule is tight and people get little time for tourist temptations. The schedule may look regimented, but that’s where a hotel differ from a hospital. The well appointed treatment rooms make guests forget that they are patients,as they surrender themselves to the expertise of the masseurs.

Food is also play an important part in the vedic treatment. Ayurvedic cuisines have the restrictions, no flesh, no sour, no spices and of course no liquor. It sounds unappetizing but chefs in hotels are alsways ready to take the tough challenge. Over seven years, they have come up with a variety of dishes-Indian, Continental and Chinese that abide by ayurvedic restrictions but in the same time scrumptious.

Patients throng to the hotels and spa during the time of monsoon, most of the patients are here on long term treatment packages of up to 42 days. Not all the problem can be completely cured but they can at best be managed and prevented from worsening. Patients are given a year long medicinal dose after the initial treatment.

Some Ayurvedic Treatments

• Pizhichil - A special rhythmic massage using warm herbal oil. Time taken is from 60 to 90 minutes and extend from 7 to 21 days. Effective to cure rheumatic and nervous disorders. Boost virility.
• Njavaraakizhi - This is a traditional method of sudate the certain part of the body by application of boluses wrapped in muslin and soaked in warm medicated oil. Treatment is very effective against rheumatism, joint aches, high blood presure, cholesterol and skin diseases.
• Sirodhara - Pouring herbal oils, medicated milk or buttermilk on the forehead for 40 minutes over seven to 21 days. Effective against insomnia, memory loss, headsches and stress realted diseases.
• Vasthi – Medicated enema-herbal oils and extracts are applied through the rectum daily for five to 25 days. Effective against paralysis, numbness, gastric disorders and chronic constipation.
• Sirovasthi – warm herbal oil is poured into the cap fitted on the head for 15 minutes for seven days. Effective against facial paralysis, dryness of nostrils, mouth and throat and severe headache.
• Nasayam – herrbal oil is applied through the nostrils for seven to 14 days. Ideal for those suffering from sinusitis, headaches and mental disorders.

Ayurvedic Treatment For Beauty

• Slimming program - herbal powder and oils are used to massage twice every day for 28 days. Also therapy include steam bath, ayurvedic diet, herbal juices and tea.
• Body purification therapy – Detoxify the body by herbal massage, steam bath and ayurvedic diet.
• Rejuvenation Therapy – Refreshes the body, enhance virility and vitality and reduce stress.

Common Diseases Cure By Ayurveda

• Rheumatism
• High blood pressure
• Skin diseases
• Stress related diseases
• Gastric disorders
• Paralysis
• Obesity
• Sinusitis
• Mental disorders
• Chronic constipation
• Nervous disorders

Ayurvedic Treatment Cost/ Price of ayurvedic and yoga therapy in Kerala

For Eurpoean typically for one treatment, it would cost 229 Euro. Sometimes it would 90-100 Euro package also. Slimming program and body purification therapy cost heavy, anything 600 Euro to 1000. In pound it would cost almost 300 pound and in for US resident it would cost almost 600 dollars. For Indian however, cost is quite less.

How to reach? Location of Kerala. Travelling to kerala

Air- There is three airports in the state - Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode. Thiruvananthapuram is also an international airport, connecting the state to many places in India and the world.
Rail: There are as much as 200 railways stations in Kerala connecting most of the places in the state to places in the other parts of India and inside the state.
Road - An extensive network of metalled roads connects most of the places in the state. National highways 47, 17, and 49 connect Kerala with other parts of India.

Curative Leaves Of India

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• Neem – Perhaps no other botanical tree better meets the true definition of a panacea than neem, a tropical evergreen tree native to India. Every part of this fascinating tree has been used, from ancient to modern times, so treat hundreds of different maladies. Comprehensive research has proven that neem has a far wider array of uses than any other herb and has been in use since 4,500 years ago. Ancient Sanskrit verses also illustrated the benefits and attributes of Neem. The whole Neem tree has tremendous pharmacological properties that prevent virus, fungal infection, bacteria and anti inflammatory properties.

• Betel – Betel leaf has been used from ancient times as an aromatic stimulant and anti-flatulent. The plant has many traditional medicinal uses. Powdered betel leaf nut is used as a constituent in some tooth powder. Betel leaves are beneficial in the treatment of nervous pains, nervous exhaustion and debility. Betel juice mixed with honey is a good tonic for pain and to cool the inflammation. The tonic also helps to reduce intense migraine.

• Mint – The name mint has its origin in the Greek word ‘mentha’. Mint’s health benefits were well known to ancient people. All mint varieties contain menthol, a compound that facilitates digestion and has antiseptic properties. The ancient wisdom is well practiced in modern system of medicine. It is a common practice in India to take mint infusions to assuage migraine pains and cure sudden hiccups. In India mint is being used to cure various ailments such as indigestion, headaches, colic, gingivitis, irritable bowel syndrome, spasm and rheumatism. The mint oil has innumerable curative properties. It is famous in ayurveda because of anti bacteria and anti viral properties.

• Tulsi – Tulsi has been known and honored in India from time immemorial. The name ‘Tulsi’ means ‘the incomparable one’. And it is not an exaggerated statement however. The herb is considered as the one of the pillars of Indian holistic ayurveda system. The peculiar property of Tulsi is it acts differently on different person according to body type and nature. Tulsi reduces stress, enhances stamina, relieves inflammation, lower cholesterol, eliminates toxins, protect against radiation, prevent gastric ulcers, lower fever, and improve digestion. It has a great antioxidant property as well.

• Aloe Vera – The tales of aloe vera plants have been found 3, 500 years ago. There are more than 200 species of aloe vera available throughout the world. But one of these species, only four of them is treated to possess therapeutic healing properties. This cactus like plant has been used for centuries for treating the stomach disorders, kidney ailments and burns. Aloe vera is well known for soothing sunburned skin as well as healing dry skin. High in vitamin C and selenium, aloe vera is considered to be an antioxidant, which protects the cells from free radical damage.

Spiritual Journey to Rishikesh

2010-01-26T04:41:00.000-08:00

Rishikesh where people try to reach for another world, where belligerent Ganga provides a perfect ambiance alongwith Himalayas, ashrams, sadhus, classical songs, the smell of incense and a divine emotion. Rishikesh is all this and more. Unlike Varanasi Rishikesh is subtle and showy, it’s pretentious, ashrams are neat and clean and sadhus are sober and humble. Most unique nature of Rishikesh that make it separate from other holy places is presence of numerous yoga Ashrams and foreigners throng to this place for little bit of spiritual enlightenment. it’s a city where ancient, religious traditions exist happily together with youthful, adventurous sports. It tempts people with heady, bodily diversions- white water rafting and challenging treks.

Traveler’s Choice In Rishikesh

• Ram Jhula – More people talk about Lakshman Jhula but from my experience I tell you Ram Jhula is much better for various reasons. It’s less crowded, during winter and summer ( except monsoon) you can easily step down to ghats and walk along the sandy bank of Ganga. Experience the chill water, crystal clear Ganga. I had an absolutely inconceivable experience of bathing on the banks and that also in the month of January. Ram Jhula connects Shivanand Ashram on the east bank with Swargashram on the west.

Walk Through The Bank To Reach Lakshman Jhula – It’s a really difficult proposition and I had tried but failed. Big boulders were the biggest problem while walking alongside Ganga. After half and hour of trekking( it was no difficult than any trek) I threw my idea and took a short cut route via various ashrams.

• Breakfast At Lakshman Jhula – It is the centre of good times with its noisy bazaars and crowded cafes. The most happening part of the town. Strictly vegeterian Rishikesh has some wonderful restaurants and cafes ( I liked German cafeteria). Inspiring view from a top cafeteria overlooking Lakshman Jhula- temples, bathing ghats, prayer flags and clear sandy beaches shouldn’t be missed.

• Yoga Ashrams – Rishikesh have gained immense popularity among foreigners, as a center for learning yoga, Hindu philosophy and ayurveda. I saw more than 30 ashrams offering some sort of yoga courses and lectures on Hindu philosophy. Some famous ashrams are Shivanand Ashram, Omkarananda Ahram and Swargashram.

Adventure Activities - Apart from Sadhus, yoga and spirtualism, Rishikesh is favorite spot for adventurers. River rafting, Kayaking, trekking, camping everything arrange at several trekking and mountaineering offices that mushrooming fast in Rishikesh. Although I never took any guide or tour package but I recommend to contact only GMVN Trekking and Mountaineering Office.

How To Reach Rishikesh?

By Air- Nearest airport is at Jolly Grant In Dehradun around 25 km from Rishikesh.
By Road - If you are coming from Delhi, you have to take NH58 that takes you via Meerut, Khatauli, Roorkie, Haridwar and Rishikesh. Takes around 6 hours. You will get ample buses from Kashmere Gate ISBT.
By Rail – haridwar station is better connected with major cities of India. It is advisable to come to Haridwar and take bus or share auto to Rishikesh.

Ganga Aarti at Har ki Pauri – Haridwar

2010-01-24T09:48:00.000-08:00

Haridwar is the religious capital of India, is at the foothills of the Shivaliks in Uttarakhand. Though a much crowded place filled up with pilgrims, Haridwar instantly evokes a strong religious fervour. The place is dotted with Hindu pilgrims, ubiqutious temples, shops hawking religious bling – rudraksh necklaces, shloka – printed T- shirts in hues of deep ochre, clay figurines, jewelleries and many more.

The best thing is undoubtedly the much famed evening aarti at Har-ki-Pauri. Its’s the most awaited event occurs everyday at Har-ki-Pauri ghats. Thousand congregate at either side of the bank, and the river Ganga is embelleshed like newly wedded bride, aglow with phosphorescence of a million diyas and marigold petals, is an ethereal sight. Air is stuffed with incense and rhythmic chants filled the air. The ambiance suddenly turns into another world. Everybody closes their eyes and sway in tempo. The religious fervour is unimaginable. In a six minutes the aarti reaches a crescendo and people scramble madly for prasad.

Excursions From Haridwar

• Rishikesh - The nearest holy town, only 24 kms from Haridwar. Rishikesh is an attraction for both pilgrims and adventurers. The Ganga here is in full flow and bluish green. This is also where the Ganga begins it’s long journey through the plains.

• Dehradun – A nice place to spend your holiday, around 54 kms from Haridwar. The place is an excellent amalgamation of bustle of small town with the lush green cool of the hills.

• Mussoorie – A hours drive away, Mussoorie still deserves it’s ‘ Queen of the Hills’ title. Ramble all over the charming hillside and market.

Facts On Haridwar

• Getting There – Haridwar is approximately eight hours journey from Delhi (214km) and it is linked with major cities of India by railway network. The town is also connected to all north Indian towns by bus.
• Stay Option – Hotels are plenty. As Haridwar is always crowded with pilgrims all over from India, there is every type of hotels ranging from budget to luxury. I recommend Haveli Hari Ganga on the banks of river Ganga is a luxurious boutique hotel.
• Timeline – Spend some time here, and make your base to explore nearby surrounding areas like Rishikesh, Rajaji National Park and other hill sides.
• Shopping- Shopping is must in Haridwar. Pick anything from colorful bangles to clay idols, plenty options to collect good souvenir.
• Activities In Haridwar – There are plenty of treks nearby into the foothills and plenty of natural attractions around.
• Food In Haridwar– Non vegetarian is strictly no no. But it can counterbalance by various vegetarian cuisines.

Culinary Souvenirs Of India

2010-01-21T07:45:00.000-08:00

Food is an easy medium by which to explore traditions and cultures in countries we travel to, and a souvenir in the form of food or food related objects – culinary souvenirs shall we say – make excellent keepsakes. Ornamental and serviceable at the same time, they also make lovely gifts for people back home. India is a rich country for culinary souvenirs.

While some culinary souvenirs cost you nothing, beyond the effort of obtaining them – one of the paper napkins from Britannia and Co. in Mumbai (embellished with a picture of their mascot, the owner’s per rooster and proclaiming, “There is no love greater than the love of eating”), there are some that could cost you every last bit of your allowance! Indulgence could mean you stir the finest saffron into your next dish or serve a special meal in a brass urli from Kerala. Some of the wines being produced in India are great as well.

Of course spices are one of the first things one thinks about carrying back from India but your culinary souvenir need not always be food; there are lots of other options. Every region in India produces indigenous cookware, spice mixes and traditional kitchen gadgets. Terracotta chattis and urlis from Kerala, bhaddus from Uttarakhand, even a tiffin or dabba like the famous dabbawallas of Mumbai, might add a little weight to your luggage, but in case you don’t fancy using these as utensils – fill them up with pot pourie or float candles in them!

Pick up east Indian bottle masala in Mumbai; a spice blend of 20 spices or more, individually dried in the hot sun, roasted over a slow flame, powdered, mixed by hand and tightly packed in air tight, dry beer bottles. The bottle is then sealed and properly stored and used to flavor curries through the year.

The east Indians use it for everything. They swear that the cuisine does not taste the same without it! The Bottle Masala travel far and wide; East Indian emigrants take it with them to Canada and Australia, and there are some restaurants abroad, like Namita Panjabi’s Chutney Mary in London, that uses it in their cooking. Bottle Masala differs in pungency, flavor, and even colors depending on the ingredients

Waterfall Around Ranchi

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• Jonha Falls – It is also known as Gautam Dhara as Lord Buddha is believed to have bathed here. A temple and ashram dedicated to Buddha was built atop Gautam Pahar by the sons of Raja Baldevdas Birla. A sign clearly proclaims that the ashram was originally meant for people of the Hindu faith as well as all branches of arya dharm (Buddhist, Jains, Sikhs, Sanatani, Aryasamajis). Locals also call Johna the Gunga Nala because the stream apparently comes from Ganga ghat. 453 steps take you down to the waterfall and to the farflung villages of Konardih and Duarsini on the other side of the stream.

• Sita Dhara – Named after Sita who is believed to have bathed here during her years of exile, Sita Dhara is less visited and hence more difficult to access. The steps leading down often get obscured by foliage. Those who take the trouble to go down to the bottom of the fall will be rewarded by the sight of a pair of footprints, which are believed to belong to Sita.

• Hundru Falls – Hundru Falls is perhaps most famous of all. Located at the distance of 45 km from Ranchi this falls is created by the Swarnarekha river falling from a height of over 320 feet.

• Dassam- It means ‘ten’ after the number of rivulets, Dassam atually means falls in the local Mundari language. The Kanchi river plummets from a height of about 144 feet and you can see the waterfall from platforms at different elevations.

• Hirni Falls – The Ramgarha river which travels 12 km through dense jungles, plunges down in a broad torrent as Hirni. From the car park, a walkway to the left takes you to the other side of the river to a tourist hut whereas steps to the right lead up to the top of the hill. From an observation tower at the top you can see the mighty fall and the jungles that lie beyond. A little further up there’s a bridge spanning the river and a shed. It is believed that Hirni name comes from the profusion of deer in the area. Even today, the limestone caves deep inside the jungles above, are home to beasts like tigers, bear and porcupine.

African Dances in India

2010-01-17T08:37:00.000-08:00

Have you ever dance the Dogon or Manjini? No? Don’t be embarrassed of your inferior knowledge. It’s very obvious to unheard about those names because most of the people relates Afro –American dance with much rollicked salsa, hip hop and raps. Though the footwork of black culture is not popular in India but Dogon and Manjini rules in Africa their every occasion from birth and baptism to wedding and funeral.

In India there is now a growing rage of learning the traditional black dances than Beyonce’s toady gyrations. In the capital Delhi, short courses on black dances are conducted in few place. In the courses anyone between 20 to 40 years old can join, only condition is, the person has to be dance aficionado. The pelvis the basis of Afro jazz dance. Manjini, a Senegalese dance, which is world’s fastest require strong and flexible stomach and back muscles.

Delhi based institution offers a 12 week course, have few Indian students as compared to major white Americans. According to some students, move are very different from Western dance and based on beats rather than melody. Sometimes, 12 drums beats simultaneously and a dancer must move the upper torso to the beats of one drum and hips and legs to another.

African And Other Dance Schools In Delhi

Western Dance,Aerobics,Creative Dance Classes are held for 15 to 35 age group, For Female only. Mon, Wed, Friday. Morning and Evening classes. Contact Person: Trishna Sarkar Address: Mayur Vihar Phase 3, New Delhi, New Delhi - 110011
• Western Dance Classes are held for Western Dance. Contact Person: Chandan Kumar Timings: 7.00 PM to 10.00 A.M. Address: Laxmin Nagar, Delhi Delhi - 110019
• Dance School In Noida
Near PVR Spice World, C-48, Sector-28
Noida

West Bengal Handicraft Association

2010-01-05T09:33:00.000-08:00

West Bengal is always rich in rural handloom and handicrafts but as like any other states of India, it needs good promotion. Way back in 1916, few intellectuals of Kolkata came together and took an initial initiative to preserve and promote the old arts of West Bengal. In the year 1917, Bengal Home Industries Association was formally formed. The first honorary secretary was artist Gaganendranath Tagore started the activities of the association’s by designing a scarf with the traditional mango-leaf motif. The association is still runs actively after 90 years. The first flagged off item to start the association is still makes limited editions of good bearing the first motif.

The Bengal Home Industries Association has revived some of the lost crafts and traditional wares. As rural artists of Bengal finds difficult to compete with cheap, mass-produced goods. The Association has become a boon for artists as it acts as the artisans window to the world, offering them a chance to take their goods to a wider audience through their showroom. The office bearers of the Association continue to provide honorary service to the work of the association.

There are few showrooms in Kolkata, one of the popular one is at Camac Street. They stock large variety of handicrafts and handloom of West Bengal. Apart from that it also keep few items of different states of India. The showrooms generally buy the goods directly from the artisans. Sometimes limited monetary help is provided to poorer and less skilled artisans but highly skilled artisans are provided with well remuneration. Sometimes, Association help artisans with ideas and innovation. They help rural artists with modern designing methods and technology so that they can make products in less time with a better market value.

The showrooms of Bengal Home Industries are racked with all types of attractive items. Wooden toys sit cheek by jowl with terracotta and brasswares, dokra artifacts, carpets, wall hangings, scarfs and handkerchiefs will simply spoil you for choice. Among popular gift items are terracotta figurines of Bankura horses, saris from Murshidabad and Vishnupur are popular items. Not only that you will get ample choice from Shantiketan to Darjeeling. The most exciting part is the cost of items that are pocket friendly. Most of the budding lovers from school and colleges are frequent visitors of the showroom to impress their beaus or girl.

Red Fort - Delhi Showpiece Heritage Fort

2010-01-03T20:23:00.000-08:00

The biggest monument of Delhi is the Lal Quila, or the Red Fort, which is made up of red sandstone, bulging with turrets and bastions was the mute witness of several cabals, battles, scandals.... and still withstood firmly with the vagaries of nature and time. It is located along the river Yamuna in the northeast corner of of original city of Shahjahanabad now known as old Delhi. It is a mammoth structure, wall extend up to two kilometers and height of 18 meters on the river side and 33 meters on the city side. During Mughal era the Yamuna river used to flow on the eastern side of the fort therefore, filled up the moat, which was a good obstacles for a foe.

Lal Quila or Red Fort was credited to Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. He built this mammoth structure after he transfered his capital from Agra to Shahajahnbad, royal architect Ustad Hamid and Ahmed prudently designed this fort. The Red Fort was well-planned to combat with enemies, it has huge walls and all the trappings.

The wall of the fort are smoothly dressed and open to two gates, one is Lahore and always has a special significance to Indian freedom movement as this gate witnessed so many freedom speeches and activities since the first war of independence in 1857. The Lahore gate is baronial structure laid by semi-octagonal towers. Lahore gate has several apartments inside it and it is believed that the large bronze-covered wooden door of the gate was so heavy that elephants were used to open and close the doors. The Lahore gate leads to Chatta Chowk popularly known as Meena Bazaar, was a prestigious shopping hub at Mughal era and still attracts tourists for its artistic objects. Main attraction of shops here are jeweleries, carpets and different artifacts. Just beyond the Chhata Chowk, Naubat Khana, which is also known as Drum House. This was the place where emperor spent umpteen hours listening to his musicians. The music gallery was decorated with large number of musical instruments of that era like kettledrums,hautboys (shenai)and huge cymbals. the place was also an important significance as from here royalty and festivities were harbingered. Rectangular Naubat Khana’s walls were designed in stone and originally painted in gold. The first floor of Naubat Khana is now converted into a War Memorial Museum, which has arms and ornaments of Mughal era. Also having painting of different Mughal rulers and a brief description of First War Of Independence.

Diwan-i-Amor or the Hall of Public Audiences was a place to watch. Here the emperor listened to common people complaints. The wall was marble –paneled and decorated with precious stones although much of stones were looted during the mutiny of 1857.

The Diwan-i-Khas or Hall Of Private Audiences was the place where emperor Shah Jahan had private meetings with his ministers. This marble carved hall had a center attraction that was the Peacock Throne, which was Nadir Shah took away to Iran in 1739. Diwan-i-Khas of todat still preserce the relics of past and remind us of its grandeur.

Other attractions of this Fort was the ‘hammam’ or royal baths was known as Shahi Burj, that was supposed to be emperor’s private area. Till date the grandiosity of the structure shows the lavish life of Mughals. Moti Masjid or the Pearl Mosque is another structure built by last illustrated Mughals, Aurengzeb who used it for his personal use. The Rang Mahal or house of colors was specially designed for the wives and mistresses of emperors.

The Red Fort lost most of its splendor during the First War Of Independence in 1857 when British occupied red Fort and demolished number of palaces and structures and massive barracks of soldiers were constructed inside the fort. Despite of being razed by battles, Red Fort still reflects the zenith of Mughal’s grandiose and craftsmanship. Red Fort is now maintained by Archaeological Survey of India. Recently, Red Fort has been given the heritage status by UNESCO on 21st of June 2007.

Even today, Lal Quila or Red Fort speaks loud of Mughal’s glory and the structure and interior is simply awesome. One of the sought after monument in Delhi welcomes tons of travelers across the world every year.

How to reach
By air: Delhi's Indira Gandhi Airport is well connected with major destination of the world and country.

By Train: There are two stations, New Delhi and Old Delhi. Connected with most of the major stations of India.

By Bus: Kashmere Gate is the major bus terminal, Red Fort is near Chandni Chowk.

Charminar - Hyderabad Famous Tourist Monument

2009-12-26T12:03:00.000-08:00

The most popular landmark in Hyderabad is the Charminar, a historic monument with four graceful minarets. Built two years after the founding of Hyderabad to mark the end of an epidemic in the city, it is often referred to as the Arc of Triumph of the east. Its central structure soars to a height of 180 feet.

Most of the fabled Hyderabad bazaars are located around the Charminar. A few steps from this spot is the Laad Bazaar which is well-known for its attractive bangles in different colors and designs.

The city’s pearl trade also originates at this place. The rough estimate of the annual turnover of the trade is around is Rs 3 billion. The old Bazaar throbs with the hectic trading of pearls, lac bangles and all other accessories to adorn a Hyderabadi bride.

History Of Charminar

The end of the 16th century saw the royal residence of the Qutb Shahi dynasty at Golconda facing a water shortage, which resulted in the change of headquarters to the fresh city of Hyderabad. In 1687, Hyderabad was overrun by the Mughal Emperor, Aurangazeb. The Mughals installed viceroys. Th e death of Aurangazeb saw the Hyderabad taken over by the viceroy Asaf Jah in 1724; the dawn of Nizams. With this, Hyderabad became the centre of art, music and learning.

The Nizam dynasty survived numerous threats, The British and French came in and by 1800, the British managed to establish military barracks.

In 1908, severe flooding destroyed several parts of Hyderabad causing rebuilding of the city. With independence in 1947, amidst some resistance, the state of Hyderabad finally became a part of the Indian Union.

Near By Attractions Of Charminar

Birla Mandir: Birla Mandir is one of Hyderabad’s major attractions. Built at an altitude of 280 feet on the high Naubat Pahad overviewing the picturesque Hussain Sagar, The temple of Lord Venkateswara is built with 2000 tonnes of white marble. The magnificent architecture of the temple is a synthesis of North and South Indian styles. The main temple is a blend of the Khajuraho and Bodh Gaya of North Indian and Rajagopuram and Garudalaya of South Indian architecture. The main deity is a magnificent nine and a half feet high granite idol.

Golconda Fort: It is located at a distance of 13km from Hyderabad, is a magnificent structure that reflects the genius of its builders with walled enclosures and palaces on a hillock. The origin of the Fort city is traced back to the Yadavas of Devagiri and the Kakatiyas of Andhra. The significant features of the Golconda Fort include 87 bastions and over 69 feet high eight gates, Kohinoor diamond; two guns of about 20 feet in length, which were part of Aurangzeb’s artillery, are still found at the Fort. There is a Son er Lumiere show at the fort at 7 pm from March to October and at 6:30 pm from November to February.

Mecca Masjid: Mecca Masjid, the largest historical mosque in south, located near Charminar, was built by the sixth Kutub Shahi King in 1614. The final finishing was, completed by the Mughal King Aurangazeb. The beautiful mosque can accommodate at a time nearly 10,000 people for offering their prayers.

Legend has it that some bricks brought from Mecca, were used in the construction of the central arch of this mosque.

Salar Jung Museum: The Salar Jung Museum in Hyderabad is the repository of the artistic achievements of diverse European, Asian and Far Eastern countries of the world. The museum houses a grand collection of antiques and other articles of the Nizam of Hyderabad.

The museum is a real treasure of antiques and there are paintings, weapons, porcelain, carpets, furniture, toys, clocks, fabrics, howdahs, jewellery, sculpture, rare manuscripts and many other artifacts in the museum.

Qutub Minar - A Fine Example Of Indo Islamic Architecture

2009-12-15T03:58:00.000-08:00

The 239 ft red sandstone is an awesome example of Indo-Islamic architectural marvel and one of the pride of Indian heritage. It is the tallest brick minaret in the world and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has five storeys and each one is marked by a projected balcony. It takes 399 steps to get to the top. The storeys are indented with different styles of fluting, alternately round and angular on the bottom floor. The first three floors are made up of red sand stone and remaining floors are built by marble and plain sand stone. Surrounding of Qutub Minar one can witness variety of Indian artwork. The decoration of the Qutub Minar is purely Islamic in character although there are some evidence of Feroj Shah’s intervention on the monument in latter part of the history. Various inscriptions written in Arabic and Nagari are embedded in the form of encircling bands in the plain fluted masonry of the Minar. Near by Qutub Minar, famous Iron Pillar is also favorite among tourist for its amazing non-corrosive phenomenon. Despite of harsh weather and different turmoil, the Iron Pillar withstood corrosion for the last 1500 years.

Who Built Qutub Minar ?

Qutubuddin Aibak, the illustrious ruler of slave dynasty made this monument in small village known as Mehrauli in Delhi. However, he only started the construction and could finish upto a height of 40 feet. Later on his successors, Illtusmish completed it in 1368. The Qutub Minar is situated in Mehrauli in the south of Delhi.

Look Beyond Qutub Minar

Red Fort - The majestic UNESCO World Heritage monument is one of the sought after site among tourists. The fort has a historic as well as national importance. The huge bastion was built by famed Mughal emperor Shahjahan. Also witnessed the first war of independence of India. it is must see for any visitor.

Lotus Temple – Lotus Temple is new architectural wonder situated in kalkaji. The temple is huge white shaped lotus like structure made up of marble, cement, dolomite and sand. Here different people from various creed and cast comes and meditate in the same wide hall.

The ISKCON Temple - Very near to Lotus Temple, famous ISKCON temple is situated in East of Kailash in Delhi. Temple has devotees of Lord Krishna and amazingly most of the devotees are foreigners. It has a well-maintained restaurant, a museum, a library, and every day a special animatronics show.

How To Reach?

By Air - New Delhi’s International airport is well-connected to different foreign destination. Almost all the major airlines land on Delhi. Also Delhi has a domestic airport in Palam, connected with all the cities.

By Train - Delhi railways stations are the hub of all the railways routing from different destination of India to Delhi. Therefore, it is not at all any problem to catch a train to go to different destination of India.

By Bus – You can find buses plying to different adjacent state of New Delhi. Buses runs to destinations like Shimla, Nainital, Dehradun, Kashmir, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and many other places.

India Become a Global Ecotourism Destination

2009-12-07T23:20:00.000-08:00

Why India has become a global hot spot for Eco-tourism? Why people across the globe keep visiting the place with much enthusiasm and curiosity? Despite of poverty smitten and complex structure, why Indian travel industry keep booming at a multiple pace? All the answers lies in Indian landscape that comprise of all the imaginable geographical variations and diversities that can flummox anyone.

Eco-tourism is not only venturing onto wilderness adventurous places but also appeals for ecological and social consciousness. It is not only a popular tourism pitch but while traveling to different destinations, it emphasize on local culture, personal growth, learning new dimensions of life and discover different cultural heritage.

Eco-tourism is a buzzing word in today’s travel world, mainly satisfy the conservation of biological as well as cultural diversity through a well –mapped ecosystem protection, also it promotes the sustainable use of biodiversity and spread cognizance among tourists about the environmental and cultural do(s) and don’t(s). Most importantly, through Eco-tourism one can promote their local culture and indigenous flora and fauna.

Now the question arise, why India keep calling thousands of tourists every year Look around the Indian landscape and get the answer. Diverse landscape of various geographic and climatic conditions can give plenty of options. Imagine traveling on the desolate ranges of Himalayas seeing beautiful monasteries and upstaged civilization or sweeping on a country boat through the mesmerizing backwaters of Kerala or imagine yourself resting on laid back beach in Goa and enjoy the life at its fullest. Indian geography and topography promotes a variety of flora and fauna with some endangered species in its surroundings. To stop the poaching and illegal trading, Indian government has made some strident laws and to conserve the wildlife several places are now become a popular National Park and Wildlife Sanctuaries. Currently there are around 87 national Park and about 441 sanctuaries. Some of them are even counted in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

However, the concept of Eco-tourism often misunderstood grossly and become a cat's-paw to promote tourism that is somehow related to nature. Actually , Eco-tourism is bit different from other tourism as it demand a level of responsibility among tourists to minimize the negative aspects of conventional tourism activities and also to intensify the cultural unity of localities. While traveling through different places Eco-tourism demands a high level of environmental and cultural awareness such as limit use of plastic bottles or carry bags (though its a common practice in India to use plastics) disposing waste to trash cans, try to visit famous places during off seasons, leave the rock, log, plants (it is a common habit to tear flowers from the plants) and animals, respect the cultural traditions of local people, buying local products to promote indigenous businesses, and spread the Eco-tourism message to other fellows.

Eco-tourism has a wide role in India where there is a abundance of natural wealth equally susceptible to impairment due to tourists rush. Environmentalists and different organizations believe that Eco-tourism has great potential for sustainable development.

Kerala Pulikali Dance Festivals

2009-12-02T23:33:00.000-08:00

Pulikali, or tiger dance is colorful procession that takes place on the fourth day of Kerala’s Onam festival. in Thrissur, considered by many the cultural capital of the state, huge numbers gather to watch the dance. There are nearly twenty local groups that put floats sponsored by the residents of their neighbourhoods. Each group consisits of thirty to forty men with tiger faces painted on their bellies.

The dancers shave their bodies early in the morning to prepare for the event. Layers of paint are applied to strenghten the colors of tiger faces. While each coat dries the dancer must wait. While each coat of paint dries, the dancer must hold out his arms so that they don’t end up stuck to his body. The painting takes till 3 pm, after which the men put on their masks and costumes and join in a warm up dance.

It’s not just the tigers that are featured. Black panthers, lions, cheetahs and leopards are also represented. The sponsors from each neighborhood pay Rs 750 to the dancer, the more experienced dancer gets more payment but but the determining factor is the size of the tummy. In earlier days, dancers simply painted stripes or spots on their bodies and wore tiger masks.

The tiger dance is believed to be originated among the Muslims, who indeed still perform a similar dance during Muharram, the dancers going from house to house. In earlier times the hunting theme was more prominent. Dancers would enact the drama of a tiger preying on a goat, or tiger being hunted by men. For the Thrissur performance, each group of dancers is accompanied by a float, which often raise the issue like perils of globalization or stressed out out elephants running amok during festivals.

The procession takes about five hours, during which the tigers dance continuously to the beat of the chenda and other percussion instruments, egged on by the crowds that surge around them. The dance is simple: take three steps forward, jiggle the belly, take three steps back and jump. But the overall effect is mesmerizing. The shifting stomach muscles create the illusion of changing expressions of the tiger faces. To see this crowd is overjoyed.

Balpakram National Park – Wildlife Sanctuary of Meghalaya

2009-11-01T05:08:00.000-08:00

The 'Land of Perpetual Winds’ to the outside world but the tableland is in the south eastern corner of the Garo Hills. It has an importance for both Garo and Hindu religious beliefs. Balphakaram, which is declared as a national park in 1987, is the land of scenic beauty, lying at an altitudeof narly 3000ft above sea level, covering an area of 200 sq.km.

It is vast tableland of dense forest, teeming wildlife and quite an unknown rich bio diversity spot in India. it is a home many rare and exotic species of fauna, some endemic to the area, many almost extinct, evokes interest among wildlife enthusiasts. The Garos consider Balphakram to be sacred as the land where the spirits of the dead sojourn. The steep rock cliffs of the canyon are believed to be the natural habitats of the gonchos or evil spirits. Interesingly, on the Khasi hills border, there is a natural water tank of the rock, which is perpetually clear and transparent.

The main fauna of Balphakaram is birds. There are hundreds of species of birds are found. Apart from birds there are other wildlife like langur, cheetal deer, leopard, different reptiles and many other. But the main attraction is to explore the mythical and fiercesome terrain of this high altitude. Acres and acres of vast tableland is covered with ground orchids and other herbs and bush in multi colour blooms present an unforgettable sight. Also mid April to Mid June , it is the best time for bird watching and wildlife study.

• How To Go Balphakram
167 km from Tura, the district headquarter of West Garo Hills District. It only can be reached by road. Local road transport and private taxis are available from Tura. Tura is also connected by regular helicopter service from Shillong.

• Best Time To Visit Balphakram
March To June
• For Details, Contact
Director of Tourism, Govt.of Tourism Nakrek Building, Lower, Lachaumiere Shillong -793001

Durga Puja - Integral Part Of Bengali's Culture

2009-10-18T07:27:00.000-07:00

Durga Puja reminds a pleasant weather, the luxuriant foliage, mild fragrance of shiuli, the chanting mantras, titillating people, and the ambiance is simply perfect for any festivals.

The Worship of Durga in the autumn is one of the most important festivals in India and holds a lot of prominence for Bengali’s. Durga Pooja in Bengal is also called as AkalBodhan (untimely awakening of Durga). One gets to see the most emphatic celebrations in the state. The festival can be sensed with the squirt of its fanfare. During these 4-5 days whole Bengal embellishes in its best attires. The whole city is set to look as a bride.

Durga Pooja is the major festival of Bengal; even people who reside abroad come to their home state to celebrate the puja in their traditional way with pomp and glory. People fancify them in their traditional attires and ornaments to look more prettify. And this is also the time to taste the sumptuous cuisine of Bengal.

Religious Significance

Durga, in Sanskrit means” she who is inexplicable or manifestation of the absolute power.” The idol of Durga signifies the victory of good over evil. According to a legend, the demon Mahisasur who started ravaging the whole world and wanted to uproot the celestial Devas, gave a reason to Devas to combine their powers to create a beautiful maiden and then god emerged in the form of female. Deity Durga is revered in numerous forms in India as Lakshmi, Kaali, and Saraswati. Durga also varies from place to place. Goddess Durga is celebrated as Dussehra in south India whereas Navratri in North India.

Celebration Of Durga Puja In India

North India

People of Northern India celebrate Navratri with great ardor. Strict Devotees take milk only for seven days. And on the eighth day they revere girls and invite them to eat and commend gifts. Unlike Bengali’s they strictly extricate meat, alcohol, and other intoxication.

West India

In Gujarat, people worship Goddess durga in the form of Amba Mata. They celebrate the festival by playing the sticks known as Dandia, a dance form which is played in public squares, open grounds and streets.

East India

In West Bengal Durga Puja is celebrated as a Sharad Navratri. They celebrate it by making the splendid and gigantic clay idols of Durga and by creating exquisite Durga Puja Pandals.

South India

In the southern states of India especially Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, sharad navratri is celebrated by inviting guests to their place and they all enjoy the festivities.And in Karnataka It is celebrated in a grand style when elephants flaunts with jewelries and colorful robes paraded on the streets.

Further Read:

Calcutta Coffee House - Heritage of Calcutta
The Story Of Calcutta

Waterfall Around Ranchi

2009-10-16T11:19:00.000-07:00

Ranchi is surrounded by several waterfalls, though they are scattered in different directions, if you start early you can cover all these in a day. The Panchghagh and the far flung Hirni lie on the route to Chaibasa. From Dassa, you can also cover Panchgagh, by continuing on the diversion from Taimara to Khunti, Sadni, Lodh, Sugabandh and Mirchaiya are best covered if you are travelling between Netarhat and Betla.

• Jonha Falls – It is also known as Gautam Dhara as Lord Buddha is believed to have bathed here. A temple and ashram dedicated to Buddha was built atop Gautam Pahar by the sons of Raja Baldevdas Birla. A sign clearly proclaims that the ashram was originally meant for people of the Hindu faith as well as all branches of arya dharm (Buddhist, Jains, Sikhs, Sanatani, Aryasamajis). Locals also call Johna the Gunga Nala because the stream apparently comes from Ganga ghat. 453 steps take you down to the waterfall and to the farflung villages of Konardih and Duarsini on the other side of the stream.

• Sita Dhara – Named after Sita who is believed to have bathed here during her years of exile, Sita Dhara is less visited and hence more difficult to access. The steps leading down often get obscured by foliage. Those who take the trouble to go down to the bottom of the fall will be rewarded by the sight of a pair of footprints, which are believed to belong to Sita.

• Hundru Falls – Hundru Falls is perhaps most famous of all. Located at the distance of 45 km from Ranchi this falls is created by the Swarnarekha river falling from a height of over 320 feet.

• Dassam- It means ‘ten’ after the number of rivulets, Dassam atually means falls in the local Mundari language. The Kanchi river plummets from a height of about 144 feet and you can see the waterfall from platforms at different elevations.

• Hirni Falls – The Ramgarha river which travels 12 km through dense jungles, plunges down in a broad torrent as Hirni. From the car park, a walkway to the left takes you to the other side of the river to a tourist hut whereas steps to the right lead up to the top of the hill. From an observation tower at the top you can see the mighty fall and the jungles that lie beyond. A little further up there’s a bridge spanning the river and a shed. It is believed that Hirni name comes from the profusion of deer in the area. Even today, the limestone caves deep inside the jungles above, are home to beasts like tigers, bear and porcupine.

Kalimpong - A Hill Destination Of Bengal

2009-08-20T02:58:00.000-07:00

Places of Interest in Kalimpong in West Bengal
1) Durpin Dara – Nestled at an altitude of 1402m is located 3km from the town. It is an observatory point where you can have breathtaking view of Himalayas. Durpin Dara is the highest point in Kalimpong that can be accessible by car from Kalimpong.
2) Pedong Monastery – Pedong monastery is established in 1837, near the Damsang fort. It was made by Bhutanese king and situated just near the Damsang Fort.
3) Flower Nurseries – Kalimpong is famous for exotic flora. There are number of known and unknown species of flowering plants can be found in the nurseries. Also if you are an orchid lover, it is the right place for you.
4) Mangal Dham – recently made, the place is revered among local people, especially popular among tourist for its wonderful architecture.
5) Dr. Graham’s House – Established by Dr. John Anderson in 1900 on the lower slopes of Deola Hills. A fine educational institute is made in a sprawling campus of 500 acres. very year in the month of May a gala festival called May Fair is organised here.

Places of Attractions in and around Kalimpong
1)Lava - Distance-30 km
3)Pedong - Distance 20km
4)Darjeeling- 56km
5) Gangtok - 85km

Best Beaches In South India

2009-08-08T00:07:00.000-07:00

Kovalam Beach In Kerala - The popular beach in the “God’s Own Country”. It consists of two palm-fringed coves, the lighthouse beach and the Hawah beach. Kovalam is actually combination of three beaches. A less populated rocky beach separates these two sandy beaches. One can walk into the sea about 100 meters without losing ground. This cove is also famous as a safe swimming destination. Earlier it was an angler’s paradise , also it is an excellent place for some underwater splashes. The underwater corals can be visible during the snorkeling. The best part of Kovalam beach is its cleanliness. It is just 16 km away from Trivandrum, the capital city of Kerala.

The Calangute Beach In Goa– Goa is India’s most favourite beach destination. Among many beaches Calangute beach is my picked up because of its calmness (though during festival season it is crowded), stretching well over four miles where palm trees run parallel to the sea. It was once a little village of fishermen but later took by hippies and ultimately turned into commercial. Located at a distance of 45 minutes from Panjim, this beach destination is perfect destination for relaxing. The sandy Calangute beach also affords various adventure sports like para sailing, wind surfing and water skiing.not far away is Kerkar Art Complex where every Saturday you can shop some beautiful local art and crafts. For those travelers who wish to stay for long, there are excellent inexpensive cottages near sea.

Marina Beach In Chennai– A crowded and most sought after beach in South India, is famous for its wonderful arary of beach activities, entertainment and relaxation. The most striking characteristic of the beach is the set of beautiful stone status that adorn the roadside area of the beach. Marina beach is famous for its pristine beauty, jolly ambiance and rich eco system.

Beaches Of Karwar – Karnataka is blessed with 320km of coastline, located at soaring Western Ghats. The coastlines of Karnataka is embellished with many virgin beaches and seafront temples. The Karwar beaches in Karnataka are the biggest draw. Climate is fantastic and seducing beaches coupled with charming town makes the place a worth visit. One of the celebrated beaches is Devbagh. The beach has furnished log huts, which gives a fascinating experience for travelers.visit. One of the celebrated beaches is Devbagh. The beach has furnished log huts, which gives a fascinating experience for travellers.

Lalbagh Garden in Karnataka

2009-08-04T02:13:00.000-07:00

Famous Lalabagh garden was laid out by Hyder Ali and developed by his son Tipu Sultan in the 18th century. One of the towers set up by Kempegowda can be seen on a hillock here. Huge old trees with their canopy of green foliage and rare species of plants vie for attention along with the flaming red of the Gulmohar trees. The Glass House modelled on London’s Crystal Palace where flower shows are held twice a year is also impressive. Lalbagh has an attractive floral clock also. Plant lovers can but rose plants, crotons and other exotic shrubs and plants from the Horticulture Society located near the Double Road gate at bargain price.

Near By Attractions:

Bull Temple: The Holy Craft – Kempegowda, the founder of the city is credited with the construction of this temple, which has a mammoth of Nandi (Shiva’s Bull) carved out of a single rock. It is one of Bangalore’s oldest temple and an example of the Dravidian stlye of architecture.

Tipu’s Palace And Fort – The fort is a sturdy creation built in 1537 by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. Though much was destroyed by British, it’s worth a quick visit. The palace that was built in 1791 AD, as a summer palace by Tipu Sultan, is known for its attractive wooden interior and teak pillars. The construction was begun by Hyder Ali and completed by Tipu Sultan.

Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary

2009-08-02T23:26:00.000-07:00

An enthusiast bird watcher, Peter Jackson first identified the place as an excellent place for bird watching and went on to convince Mrs. Gandhi, the then prime minister of India, on need for giving protection to this area. With a massive area of 359 acres and keeping its potential in mind, the area was declared a Bird Sanctuary in 1971 and was upgraded to the status of National Park in 1991 by the Haryana government.
The park is an ideal place for winged creatures and best visited in winters to witness the incredible picture for all to experience the numerous visa less friends. Apart from birds, the park also a home of number of organism including crustaceans, fish, unique insects and much more. With a revival of rare species such as the Bugun Liocichla, Indian bird sanctuaries prove to be a good breeding ground. The bird has olive feathers with a distinguished balck cap and red, black and white patches on its wings.

The trees such as Acacia Nilotica, acacia Tortilis, Beirs and Neem have also become popular.There are number of resource available in the park that instill exuberance among bird lovers. Such as library, films, slides and binoculars. There are four watch towers errected at different points. For those who want to stay here for night, there is a nice resort providing all the facilities. The Haryana Wildlife Department has dedicated a room in the memory of renowned ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali. The room preserves his bust, photographs, write ups and other personal things.In Haryana alone a record number of more than 450 species of birds arrive, 250 have been recognised, some of them are residential while other are migratory, comes form distant regions like Siberia, Europe and Afghanistan.

Common Species Of birds In Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary

Common Hoopoe, Paddyfield Pipit, Purple Sunbird, Little Cormorant, Eurasian Thick-knee, Gray Francolin, Black Francolin, Indian Roller, Painted Stork, White Ibis, Black Headed Ibis, Little Egret, Great Egret, Red Venter Bulbul, Rose ringed Parakeet, Red wattled Lapwing, Shikra, Eurasian Collared Dove, red Collared Dove, Laughing Dove, Spotted Owlet, Rock Pigeon, Magpie Robin, Greater Coucal, Weaver Bird, Bank Mynah, Green Be Eater, white Throated Kingfisher, Cattle Egret are prominently placed.

Ethnic Miniature Paintings – Ancient Art of India

2009-07-27T03:54:00.000-07:00

The birth of Indian miniature paintings can be traced back to 6 and 7th century AD. Miniature art has intricate, colorful illumination or paintings, small in size, executed meticulously with delicate brushwork. Several styles have emerged in varied locations and this could be explained by the shifts of royal lineages in the corridors of power. The first to arrive were the Kashmiri Miniatures and the earliest to arrive were the 11th century ‘ Pala’ miniatures.

The miniatures artists expressed themselves through mediums on paper, ivory panels, wooden tablets, leater, arble, cloth and walls. The ‘ Kangra’ miniatures of the Pahari schools in the 18th century had an influence of the Mughals, yet had specialty. They were replications of religious texts like ‘Gita Govindam’ from Hindu mythology.

The Jain manuscripts of western India, now preserved in the temples of rajasthan and Gujarat, are the source of miniatures of the Jain school of art. These manuscripts are inscribed on palm leaves and are illustrated with stylish miniatures. Mughal court style and several distint schools of Rajasthan miniatures were born: the Mewar or Udaipur school, the Bundi school, the Jishangarh school, the Bikaner school and the Alwar school.

Miniature paintings were once made on a base of ivory but since the use of ivory has been banned now, this art has now found expression on canvas.

Weekend Holiday Spots in Gujarat

2009-07-27T00:41:00.000-07:00

• Spa and Golfing break, Gandhinagar - Take a blissful relaxation at the Cambay resort in Gandhinagar, Gujarat's premier spa resort. on offer is an exhaustive menu of treatments that will leave you feeling rejuvenated like never before -choose from a wide range of ayuvedic techniques, sweedish and Balinese massages, aromatherapy, reflexology, scrubs, wraps, baths, facila and even yoga and meditation. Cambay Spa& resort is located 15km from the airport.
• Prehistoric Tour Of Balasinor - Spend a fun weekend with the kids in the town of Balasinor, home to a record cache of prehistoric fossils including fossilised dinosaur eggs thta weigh more than five kilos and have a diameter of over 30cm. visit the Raiyoli site near Balasinor, considered one of the three largest dinosaur sites in the world. Against the setting of a fossil site among th ancient volcanic rocks, your prehistoric safari is sure to exite you. You cans tay at Garden Palace Hotel, little expensive but worth to stay.

• Horse Riding Break At Danta - Mahipendra Singh, the former ruler of Danta, runs his country house, the Bhavani Vila, as a heritage property. Besides lots of horse talk and information from a man who is passionate about India's equine breeds, guests can go riding in his 108 acre wooded estate where he keeps his Marwari horses. For accomplished riders, a cross country horse safari in the surrounding hilly countryside can be a superb experience. You can stay at Bhavani Villa that cost about Rs 5000 that includes meals, horse safari and picnic arrangement.

• Architectural Trail - The 11th and 12th century Solanki Rajput reign over Gujarat ushered a golden period of architecture in the state. Start from Ahmedabad and visit the 11th century Sun Temple of Modhera, with astopped tank featuring 108 small shrines. Continue to Patan, which has a huge 11th century stepwell with superb sculptures of the Vishnu avatars, deities and apsaras along the seven storey stairway to the water level. Up ahead, Kumbhariyaji houses a cluster of five Jain Temples built between 1064 and 1132 AD, while Taranga's sandstone Jain Temple is among Gujarat's largest. Return to Ahmedabad via the 12th century fortified town of Vadnagar. You can stay at Balaram Palace Resort.

India – A New Angler Destination

2009-07-25T04:11:00.000-07:00

India with countless rivers and streams, offers vast opportunities for sport fishing and angling. Not matter whether you are novice or a professional angler with the latest tackle, all you have to need is patience. The best time for fishing is from October to November and mid February to mid May when rivers and streams are replete with all collection of fishes. But nothing is compare with mighty Mahseer. The majestic Mahseer is to fishing what the tiger or elephant hunt was to big game hunting.

India has a coastline of more than 3000 km and an estimated 55000 km of lakes, streams, rivers, tributaries and reservoirs. With this huge amount of water resources at its disposal, it is an ideal destination for fishing. There are strong effort put by department of fisheries of various states to promote fishing as an attractive tourism. The biggest advantage in India is that all the major rivers are sited in easily reachable places and near major cities. Some major rivers and its tributaries where fishing can be enjoyed are Mahanadi, Yamuna, Kaveri, Ganga, Brahmaputra, Sutlej, and Teesta.

The most common fishes for angling are golden mahseer, silver mahseer, silver grey mahseer, black mahseer, trout, rohu, katla, brown trout and others. The coastal water also have some amazing species like sea bass, mackerel, marlin etc.

The biggest myth is that the best fishes are found in the remotest streams or rivers. All you need is the experience and knowledge of fishing because every fish has different traits and breeding seasons. Also in India fishing need a permit from the tourism and fisheries department of the state in which you intend to go fishing. Fishing license are not issued during the breeding season.

Some Good Places For Sport Fishing

• Himachal Pradesh – Streams feeding the Beas river is well known for brown trout.
• Uttar Pradesh – The best is Dodital lake nestled between the Himalayan peaks is best for different types of trouts.
• South India – Cauvery Fishing Lodge neat Mysore is a great place to catch Mahseer. In Kerala streams around the hill stations of Munnar are ideal for fishing.
• Kashmir – Indus and Lidder rivers are major point of fishing. You can also fish in one of many high altitude lakes (14000 ft).

Heritage Cities of Rajasthan

2009-07-23T00:21:00.000-07:00

Jaipur – The blushing city is the beautiful capital of Rajasthan, renowned as ‘Pink City’. The buildings were colour-washed pink when Prince Albert, the consort of Queen Victoria of England visited the city in 1883 AD. The city was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh in 1727 AD, is credited with first planned city designed in accordance with ‘ Shilpa Shastra’ – the epochal treatise of Hindu architecture.

From each crag of the surrounding Aravalis rises a fort that bears testimony to the imperial grandeur. The visitor to the Pink City is struck by the timeless appeal of fairy tale palaces, rugged fortresses, huge mansions, broad avenues and beautiful laid out gardens.
In the heart of the city is the Cit Palace –A beautiful blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. ‘Hawa Mahal’ or the palace of winds that provides some excellent views of the streets from its fifth storey.

Shopping In Jaipur

Shopping in colourful, traditionally designed bazaars is a heady experience. Especially, famous for Meenakari and Kundan jewellery, blue pottery, embroidered shoes, fantastic fabrics and beautiful trinkets.

Places To Visit In Jaipur

• Hawa Mahal
• Citi Palace
• Jantar mantar
• Govind Deo Ji Temple
• Jal mahal or water Palace
• Jaigarh Fort
• Nahargarh Fort

Samode – 40 km northwest from Jaipur is the splendid palace set amidst fairy-tale surroundings. the ornate interiors are a fine example of the Rajput haveli (palaces) architecture. encircled by hills, it is a refreshing retreat with spectacular landscapes.

Ramgarh – A huge artificial lake amidst forested hills. 32 km northeast from Jaipur, it is a lush picnic spot that comes alive during monsoon. Ancient treasures worth visiting are the ruins of the fort and the Jamwa Mata temple.

Information On Ajanta and Ellora Caves

2009-07-01T00:52:00.000-07:00

Ajanta and nearby Ellora caves are one of the most bewildering archaeological place in India. located in the Maharashtra, the site is about 300 kilometers northeast of Mumbai, has been designated as World Heritage Site by UNESCO. These caves are not natural but man-made, built by cutting huge granite hillside. It is said that caves were built by Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monks, who worshiped and meditated in the caves. One the walls and the pillars of caves elegant status are carved, in addition there are separate places in the caves believed to be as a meditation rooms. The caves were discovered by a British army officer in 1819, John Smith till it was enshrouded in oblivion. Ajanta and Ellora caves upholds an artistic legacy that will be an educative lesson for the generation to come.

Ajanta caves are the relics of Buddha’s two phases , separated from each other by good four hundred years. The architectural marvels concurred with two school of thoughts in which one thought says of older Hinayana, which represent Buddha in pillar, stupas, footprints or throne. Another thought known as Mahayana gives lord Buddha a human form. There are 29 caves those were reclusive place for Buddhist monks who used simple chisel and hammer to carved elegant figures on the walls of caves. Carved paintings are depicting the story of Jatakas, stories of various avatars of Lord Buddha. There are beautiful images of nymphs and princesses well portrayed. Among various Hinayana caves are those of number 9, 10 both chaitayas(stupas) and 8, 12, 13 and 15 are of only viharas (old Buddhist monasteries). the carved figures are dressed that resemblance of the Sanchi and Barhut stupas. The caves are not numbered chronologically, for example Mahayana monasteries comprise of 1,2,16 and 17 and chaitayas are in the caves 19 and 26. Here the paintings and sculptures depicts the Lord Buddha’s life as well as several tales of incarnations.

The major difference between Ajanta and Ellora caves is that the latter were never ‘lost’. These are 34 in numbers and carved into sides of basaltic hill. It is situated kms away from Aurangabad. This caves preserves some of the finest specimens of ancient times also houses detailed facades and beautifully graced interior. The structure depicts the life of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism were built during 350AD to 700 AD period. There are 12 caves that are dedicated to Buddhism , 17 dedicated to Hinduism and 5 dedicated to Jainism. Caves 6 and 10 are especially unique as it house both the images of Buddhist and Hindu faith. The most illustrated structure of Ellora caves is the Kailasha temple, it is the largest monolithic construction in the world. It is in the cave 16 and considered one of the greatest excavated architectural wonder of the world. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and named after his home ‘Kailash mountain’. The corridors have been carved into mountains and studded with small bays, sculptured figures telling the epics of Hindu mythology decorated the whole of corridor.

Look Beyond Ajanta and Ellora Caves

Bibi-Ka-Maqbara

This mausoleum was built by Aurangzeb in the memory of wife Rabia-ud-Durrani in 1679. This masusoleum was modelled after the Taj Mahal.

Aurangazeb Caves

There are another caves that is nine kilometers from Auranagabad. Although it is less illustrated than Ajanta and Ellora but still these are worth a see.

Panchakki (WaterMill)

Panchakki or watermill was built during the Mughal era named after a water powered mill grinding corn for military and poor people. This was basically built to commemorate a Muslim saint Baba Sha Muzaffar.

How to Reach

Ajanta is 99 km from Aurangabad, 487 km from Mumbai (via Jalgaon), 487 km (via Manmad) and 499 km via Pune. While Ellora is about 30 km from Aurangabad.

Air :
Nearest airport is Aurangabad that 108 km away. Aurangabad's Chikalthana airport is 10 km from the city center. There are several flights fly daily to Aurangabad from Mumbai
Rail :
Jalgaon is the nearest station, which is 58 km away.
Road :
State Transport buses run from Jalgaon to Ajanta.

Vaishno Devi Tour In Jammu

2009-06-30T23:49:00.000-07:00

Faith empowers people to conquer the most exorbitant path with a divine energy. One of the most visited pilgrimage place in India, Vaishno Devi witness this energy every year when thousands of faithfuls throng to the temple of Mata (Mother) to get glimpse of her. Vaishno Devi is perhaps the most popular scared destination in India also one of the oldest shrines in India, nestling on top of the Trikuta Hills of the Shivalik Hill range at an elevation of 1,700 mt.
Vaishno Devi is located at a distance of 61 kms from Jammu. This is a long but amazingly narrow cave around 30 meter long but just 1and half meter high. The sacred cave shrine is consecrated to three form ‘Shakti’ (mother goddess) – Mahakali, Mahalakshmi and Mahasaraswati. Walk through ice-cold waters, through a narrow dark path, visitors have to reach the shrine. The whole journey is full of joy and air is filled up with unlimited enthusiasm as people scream ‘Jai mata Di’ while people jaunting through the holy path. Acorrding to Hindu mythology, mother goddess enshrouded herleself in the cave while escaping a devil and finally the demon was killed by goddess in the cave itself.

The shrine of Vaishno Devi is approached through katra, which lies 13 km from the shrine and is the base for the pilgrimage. It is quite a long journey with lots of fervor in the air. Pilgrims trek 14 km to Banganga and halt for a while and then again travel six km to another cave shrine of Ardhkunwari, where it is said mother goddess meditated for nine months. The penultimate halt is the Bhawan where people rest for a long time, washing, accomodation and depositing their belongings and other important works. Vaishno Devi is the place where it is believed that pilgrims prayers will get answers. If anyone planning to visit the religious destinations in India, Vaishno Devi is must see.

Other Attractions

Raghunath Temple- The temple is dedicated to Lord Ram and located in the heart of city. It is also a major attraction of Jammu and if you get time don’t forget to visit the place once.
Amarmahal - In the midst of beautiful valley of Jammu, this magnificent palace (mahal) made up of red sandstone stand alone in a full grandeur. From this place you will witness some amazing picturesque locations of Shiwalik hills and calm river Tawi flows down below.

Bahufort - The oldest fort in the city is located 5 km away from the Jammu. It was constructed 3000 years ago and a shrine dedicated to ‘Kali Mata’. Behind Bahu Fort, not so dense city forest surrounds one of the sacred Maha Maya temple. An excellent spot of picnic goers.

Mansar Lake – Guarded by lush green forest hills, Mansar Lake is a popular destinations for families. Boating facilities are available and every year in the month of March -April government have organized a food and craft festival here.

Sanasar – This is a cup shaped meadow fenced by large conifers. A good place for a holiday is now also a big attraction for golf lovers as there has been a big golf has been devloped here.
Some Important Suggestions

Before proceeding to journey make sure to take a yatra slip from the yatra registration counter, this slip will be issued free of cost near the Katra bus stand.
• Maintain the holiness of the journey by avoiding loud dresses, and offensive gesture or talk. Remember it is not a picnic so maintain the decorum of this sacred journey.
• At Bhawan obtain a slip to get your group number. You have to stand in the queue and maintain the discipline.
• While trekking maintain a steady pace with fellow pilgrims.
• For any kind of assistance contact the shrine board. They will there to help you out.
• Drinking is not permitted.
• Open your shoes while entering the cave.
• Photography is strictly prohibited inside the cave.

How To Reach Vaishno Devi

Trip To Vaishno Devi
By Air – Jammu is the nearest airport. Well connected with Delhi and other parts of India.
By Train – Jammu railway station is well connected to most of the important citites of Indai. Such as Kolkata, Delhi and Kanyakumari.
By Road – From Delhi you can take a bus from Interstate Bus Terminal to reach Jammu. Also you can take taxis or private car to reach Jammu.

Travel To Nainital Uttarakhand

2009-06-14T23:32:00.000-07:00

The pride of the Kumaon region, the hill town of Nainital is a jewel in the Himalayan necklace due to its beauty, natural splendour and infrastructure Known as the “Emerald Eye of Kumaon”, it is cradled in the majestic Himalayan range amidst valley full of deodars, firs and pines.

Nainital became famous as a hill resort as early as 1841. It was discovered by a wealthy English sugar merchant, Mr. Barron, and soon became a popular escape from the summer heat of the plains. Nainital was also the summer palace of the Rajas of Awagarh.

Quick Facts

Location: Situated at Kumaon foothills of the outer Himalayas, at an altitude of 1,938 meters (6,358 feet) above sea level.
Climate: Moderate Temperature
Accommodation: There are plenty of hotels available in Nainital ranging from Deluxe to budget such as 800 to 2500.
When to visit: March to June, September to November
How to Reach:
By air – The nearest airport is at Pantnagar, 70km away.
By Rail- Kathgodam, 35km away, is the last terminus of the North East Railways. From Delhi you can take the Ranikhet Express.
By Road: National Highway No 87 connects Nainital with other parts of the country. The distance from Delhi is 310km.
Where to Eat: Ashok, Kwality, Capri, and Nanak’s Restaurant

Must See

Palace Belvedere: Built more than a century ago in 1897 by Raja Balwant Singh, Palace Belvedere today is the epitome of regal living. An hour’s drive from Nainital and then a short hop will take you to Belvedere. The palace, a neat rectangle with blocks of stone edged in white, is a pleasant sight. It has white and open-colonnaded patios on the ground level and a lounge and dining hall adjoining the reception area. Renovated and refurbished, this stately colonial mansion is now run as a heritage hotel under the personal supervision of the erstwhile royal family.

Naina Peak: Naina Peak is the highest peak in National and is also known as china peak. It provides bird’s eye view of Nainital and of the sparkling Himalayas. About 5-6 km from the main town, it takes you through one of the most beautiful treks.

Raj Bhawan: The Raj Bhawan was modeled after Buckingham Palace and completed in 1900. With its wooden interiors, vivid lawns and old deodar trees, it is reminiscent of the English countryside.

Hanuman Garhi: A religious centre, Hanuman Garhi, is immensely famous for watching the setting sun. It is situated at a height of 1951 and has a Hanuman temple atop of its peak. The Uttar Pradesh Government Observatory is also nearby.

What to Shop For

Shopping in Nainital is a delightful experience. Decorative and colorful wax candles, copiously carved wooden sticks and beautiful and exquisite handicrafts made of pine seeds are popular items and also make for good souvenirs. Hang out in the fruit market and relish the fresh-from-the-orchard apples, peaches and cherries. To strike a real deal, stroll along The Mall where the streets are swarming with shopaholic tourists. All knick-knacks are available at affordable prices.

Rock Climbing Adventure Guide

2009-06-13T00:18:00.000-07:00

Climbing, an act of going up, whether it is on a hill, mountain, or artificial wall. Veer strength, fit body, and unlimited ardor for adventure are the qualities that are needed for a tough, yet a thrilling adventure sport called rock climbing. Rock climbing demands passion, determination and a strong zeal to reach your destined height.

Rock climbing can be attributed to mountaineering. A person can easily identify with rock climbing who has experienced mountaineering because the difference involved is only of snow instead of rocks. The thrill and excitement is same. In rock climbing one has to face a sharp rock and has to creep it with his bare hands, feet and a safety rope. Sometime rock climbing seems to be a toughest job but the enthusiasm and zeal around you persuades you to do it and mesmerize you by its magic and always keep you in high spirits.

Types of Rock Climbing

Most of the climbing done in modern times is considered free climbing, in this, one doesn’t require much safety equipments but a self confidence, strength and skills to climb a height. Whereas, in aid climbing the climber ascends by hanging on and climbing on his or her equipment. There are many other styles of Rock Climbing: Bouldering, Top roping, lead climbing, Trad climbing, Sport climbing, Indoor Climbing and Free Soloing.

As years passed, the trend was to make shorter but more difficult climbs. Knowing that Rock Climbing as an outdoor sport could be really dangerous, safety and protection were greatly considered. Specific techniques and gear were developed as the routes became harder and more challenging to climbers.

Travel Equipments

Gloves
Headgear
Shoes
Ascenders
Hammers
Rope
Bolts and Drills
Helmets
Chalk
Chest harness
Harness seat
Nut

Techniques

Belaying: In rock climbing, belaying is a technique used to control the rope so that a falling climber will not fall very far and will be caught by the rope.

Abseiling: Abseiling is also known as rappelling. This technique is very dangerous and many people have become injured in abseiling. Jammed ropes, equipment failure, ropes being cut on rocks and sharp edges, as well as other accidents have occurred.

Leading: In leading, the leader is responsible for placing protection for those following behind. The leader should always remain calm and the leader will attempt to place protection as needed.

Invaluable Suggestions

Take a basic lesson from a recognized institute.
Beware of used gears.
Physical Fitness as well as mental fitness is must.
Any heart problem or blood pressure patient must avoid the sport.
All safety considerations should be made.

Beaches and Water Sports In India

2009-06-12T03:28:00.000-07:00

Silvery white sands, tranquil seas in color ranging from blue to green and purple, rich marine life, pristine coral reefs and ample opportunities for water sports, Indian beaches are tourist’s delight. It s virtual paradise for tourists, thousands of tourists every year across the globe rushing Indian beaches for a different mood.

Goa - Majority of people have voted this destination as a most favorite among all other beaches in India. It is an experience of a lifetime. Besides the adventurous windsurfing, para sailing, water scooters and scuba diving, swimming in Goa, in the calm waters of the Arabian Sea is also a relaxing experience.

Adventures beyond the golden sands of Goa are ample. Goa is major destination for water surfing. Beaches such as Calangute, Colva, Pololem, Vagator, Baga, Dona Paula, Miramar and Bogmolo are considered perfect spots for surfing under the brilliant sun. Sailing is another pleasant experience that any sport lover as well as beach lover would love to try out.

Kerala – Kerala known for its exotic backwater, wide lagoons, ayurveda and coffee farm also famous for beaches. The beaches of Kerala offer everlasting pleasure and there is plenty of opportunity to indulge in water sport or beach sport at the beaches of Kovalam, Cochin, Alappuzha or Varkala. Swim in the warm coastal waters, or go for kayaking and canoeing. Water-skiing, and surfing equipment is available at many of the beach resorts dusting the sunny shores of Kerala.

Andamans and Nicobar Islands - Picture perfect holiday at the tropical paradise check out the wildlife sanctuaries, tribal reserves, national parks, copious mangroves, exotic wild orchids and exciting water sports , Andaman and Nicobar Islands spoil tourists in every way. For all the adventure seekers amongst the tourists Andaman and Nicobar offer an amazing array of water sports. Andaman Nicobar Islands offer several opportunities for adventure water sports like scuba diving, skiing, sailing, para sailing, wind surfing, snorkeling along with the options of trekking through their dense evergreen forests and island camping in the beach front forests.

Lakshadweep - Lakshadweep, located in the blue waters of the Arabian Sea, is a mesmerizing destination. The Lakshadweep islands offer beautiful beaches, ideal for a relaxing beach holiday in India. The island with its turquoise waters is the only real coral islands in India. The white coral beaches with its natural beauty is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The fantastic beaches of Lakshdweep offer an amazing variety of water sports such as scuba diving, snorkeling, deep sea fishing, kayaking and yachting etc. The tourists can enjoy sunbathing or sailing on glass-bottomed boats to watch the exotic coral and marine life in the island. Lakshadweep has 36 island, out of which only 10 are inhabited and five are open to tourists.

Gopalpur on sea, Orissa – One of the most virgin beaches of India, it is a small beach located about 16-km from Berhampur. Gopalpur with a unique picturesque splendor, often more preferred beaches of overland travelers for its clear beaches and tranquil surrounding. The gratification of the blue beach on its backwaters continues to entice the adventure lovers. Gopalpur-on-Sea is a surfer's delight and excellent for sailing.

Gujrat Beaches – With a long coastline extending to 1,600 kms, Gujrat has dotted with some finest beaches, popular for its clear blue water, swaying palm trees and various adventure water sports.. The Gujarat beaches promise for a pleasant beach holiday by relaxing on sea beaches and with sightseeing and adventure sports like water skiing, sailing and swimming.

Synopsis - Adventure holidays in India, Water Sports in India, India best adventure destinations, beach destinations in India, holiday in beaches India.

Wildlife Travel In Rajsthan - Ranthambore National Park

2009-06-11T01:19:00.000-07:00

Basic Facts
Location – It lies in the state of Rajasthan, 450km south west of Delhi, 185km from Jaipur.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Jaipur and the closest railhead is Sawai Madhopur, 11km away.
When to Visit – The summer is the best season to see wild animals. The peak season is March. However, it is more convenient to visit on the winter month months.
Ranthambore Opening Hours - Safaris run for three hours from dawn and again from around 3 p.m. The park is closed from July 1 to October 1 due to the monsoon rains.
Ranthambore Cost - The park entrance fee is 200 rupees ($4.50) for foreigners. There is also an entrance fee of 125 rupees ($3) per vehicle. A guide costs 150 rupees ($3.50). Vehicle hire charges are additional.
Ranthambore Hotels – There are very hotels inside and outside the sanctuary. Some of the best hotels and resorts are Ranthambore Regency, TigerMoon Resort, Ranthambore Bagh, Khem Villas, Aman-I-Khas tent resort.

Overview
Ranthambore National Park is one of the most illustrious parks in India, widely famous for illusive Royal Bengal Tigers. The park is located in the eastern Rajasthan in the middle part of Aravali Mountain and Vindhyan plateau. Moreover, two rivers Chambal in the south and Banas in the north further beautify the place. The central attraction of the park is six men made lakes that winding through the entire park. Most of the forests are covered by dry deciduous flora with plenty of ancient Banyan trees, Dhok and Pipal trees enshrouded the area. The massive rock structures, steep scarps and small shrubs of different kinds make the place a royal retreat of beasts.

Ranthambore National Park is mainly known for tigers. Though tigers are rarely seen but there is an estimation of 40 tigers in the park. There are other numerous rare wild animals found in the park such as leopards, stripped hyenas, sloth bears, Indian wild boars, flying foxes, Indian false vampires, Indian porcupines, small Indian Mongoose and many others. Other than that there are 50 aquatic plants, 272 bird species, and 12 reptiles’ species.

Park Safari Timings in Ranthambore National Park:

Months Morning Afternoon
October-March 0600-0900 21500-1800 hrs
April-June 0630-0930 hrs 1530-1800 hrs

Travel Information
Clothing:
Summer: Light Tropical
Winter: Light Woolen
Temperature
Months Morning Afternoon
October-March 10-15 º Celsius 20-25 º Celsius
April 20-25 º Celsius 30-35º Celsius
May-June 30-35 º Celsius 40-45 º Celsius

Tags - Rantambore national park tour, travel to Ranthambore National Park, Wildlife National Park Ranthambore, Ranthambore Wildlife Guide.

Travel To Orchha - Madhya Pradesh Medieval Heritage

2009-06-10T03:46:00.000-07:00

Orchha, a “Lost Paradise” certainly lives up to its name. The place is a former capital of the Bundela Rajas and remains an architectural gem. This small town is located between Jhansi and Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh which was founded in the 16th century by Bundela Rajput Chieftain Rudra Pratap. This Enchanting place is decked with exquisite temples, palaces, and chattris in amidst.

A place of tales and fables showcases palaces and temples, many of which still retain their pristine perfection. In this magnificent, lost world, one can still have the echoes of love everywhere in the surroundings of Orchha.

Orchha witnessed aroma of love, sacrifice and bravery of the Rajputs of the Bundela phratry, who ruled over Orchha for over two centuries. Orchha became a symbol of love and gallantry. It is also believed that Rajput prince intended to sacrifice their life to goddess Vindhyavasini.

Quick Facts

Location - It is a small town in Tikamgarh district of Madhya Pradesh.

Climate - summer: Max, 47oC, Winter: Min, 4oC

Accommodation – There are plenty of hotels available in Orchha, ranging from deluxe to budget such as Bundelkhand Riverside Hotel, Amar Mahal Hotel, and The Orchha Resort.

When to Visit – October to March

How to Reach – By rail: Jhansi (Uttar Pradesh) is the nearest city (16 kms away) from which one can easily reach Orchha.

By road: There are regular bus services from Jhansi to Orchha, as Orchha lies off the Jhansi-Khajuraho road.

Tourist Attractions In Orchha

From the 300-year-old classic vignette that is Orchha, to a modern-day state of Madhya Pradesh has imbibed the best of both worlds. Discover Orchha’s beautiful palaces that are frozen in time.

Rai Praveen Mahal – This Palace is a tender fable of poignant love. King Indramani built a special palace to express his love. It is a low, two-storeyed brick structure, designed to match the height of the trees in the surrounding area.

Jahangir’s Mahal Palace – This exquisite Palace, which Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo built to honor Emperor Jahangir’s visit to Orchha is a magnificent example of medieval palace- fort architecture. Its strong lines are counter- balanced by delicate chhatri and trellis work. The whole structure conveys an effect of extraordinary richness. From here, one can have a spectacular view of soaring temple spires and cenotaphs. This perfect amalgamation of different tart forms gives these monuments a unique aesthetic expression.

Raja Mahal – The third palace that completes the trio of magnificence and beauty is Raja Mahal. The temple is surely one of the most extraordinary sites in India. The significance of this place also increases, as it is the only temple in India where Rama is worshipped as a King.

Phool Bagh –Kings and queens are lost in the whirlpool of time, but their legacy of beauty and love still reigns here. Phool Bagh testifies to the refined aesthetic qualities of the Bundela dynasty. A central row of fountains culminates in an eight pillared palace-pavilion. A subterranean structure constructed below, was used to provide a cool summer retreat to the Orchha Kings.

Orchha never leaves the visitor untouched. As a visitor turns to have a last look at these mystic palaces, echoing with the fabulous stories of love and bravery, one cannot help the feeling that perhaps, ages ago, you were here too, behind that tree…that archway…dreaming of your love… waiting for your lover…

Information On Himalayan Trekking

2009-06-08T00:25:00.000-07:00

What’s Trekking?

The word trekking means multi - day hiking trips through rural, rugged territory. It involves moving on foot in a non - structured manner, in a group. Trekking involves a lot of things, like interacting with the nature, navigating a mountain. Trekking, as an adventure sport in India is not very old. However, still it has gained wide acceptance and popularity amongst tourists. The reason for this is that the country is blessed by Mother Nature with beauties. There are brilliant green meadows, dense pine forests, fruit orchards, snow capped peaks and rushing streams to fascinate the onlookers.

Be it north or south, east or west, India has a series of breathtaking trekking trails.
While passing through these bounties of nature, your eyes feast on the beauties while your soul gets an opportunity to rejuvenate in the freshness of the surroundings. Walking past various villages or small hamlets, you interact with different people. Their way of living, stories, culture and tradition have much to make you feel that a trip is worth all the effort made.

Trekking Grades
Three Kind Of Trekking Grades are recognized in Trekking:
» Grades 1 - 3 - Easy Grades : Also known as Easy Grades these are for the beginners or for an average level of fitness of people. These usually do not exceed 3500 meters of height, provide a good view of the Himalayas and can be taken up by teenagers too.

» Grades 4 - 6 - Medium Grades: Known as medium grades, these are a challenge for the beginners. Approaching a maximum height of 5000 meters, these higher, tougher and more exhilirating than the 1-3 graders. People of all ages can go for these. The medium grade trekking usually last for fourteen days.

» Grades 7- 10 - Hard Trekking: The hard treks assume a height of 6000 meters and are the toughest among the group. Covering the remote and the undeveloped heights, these require exceptional fitness - above than the average. Aged people and children are not allowed for the Hard Treks due to the peculiar weather conditions of the heights.

Conquering the Giants
Trekking safely captures the top spot in tourist's list of things to do. Set amidst the highest and youngest mountain range in the world, there is an overflow of well defined trekking tracks in Jammu and Kashmir. The state is the best known trekking region in the whole country. All tracks are surrounded by such exquisite sceneries, that you will spend double the time that is actually required to cover the track. These trek routes also prove to be a great way to exploring the real life in the many villages of the state that adorn these routes. Of all the three regions in the state, the best region for trekking undoubtedly is Ladakh. The best thing about trekking here is that you need not be a professional or an experienced trekker. Definitely, Himalayas are one of the toughest ranges to trek on due to the extreme climatic conditions, but these giants also have many gentle slopes that are the best tutors any learner can ever get. Before starting your trek tour, there are few things that you must know about trekking and the state as a whole.

Physical Fitness

Physical fitness is of paramount importance for trekking. Before embarking on a trip, you must give yourself ample time to adjust to local climate of the state. This is because the climate of Himachal is very coarse. Select your trek routes depending upon your physical fitness. Trek plans can be modified to suit your level of energy. The starting and the end destinations can be the same, still the entire plan can be reworked upon.

Environment Protection
Last but not the least; you should take care of the environment and surroundings. Ecology is extremely delicate, so be very careful not to disturb it while trekking through the areas. Be especially cautious about disposing of waste; carry out all tins, bottles, altogether don’t leave rubbish behind you. Whether you prefer an easy low altitude trek for simple fun or difficult high altitude trek for real challenge, trekking is an adventure sport which gives you pleasure and enjoyment of a lifetime in an adventurous way.

Agra - Medieval Heritage City Of India

2009-06-05T00:42:00.000-07:00

Overview

Agra, the name instantly reminds us the stunning Taj Mahal and gigantic Agra Fort. Agra was once the illustrious capital of Mughal dynasty and still boasts of a rich culture and heritage. With the time much of the scenario has been changed but the mystic flavor of royal city still beguiling travelers across the globe. The fine essence of bygone period is still lingering the landscape.

Agra was ruled by three generation of most dynamic dynasty in the country. The city was gifted by some incredible heritage monuments by Mughals from time to time. The monuments are undoubtedly the pride of India as people millions of visitors every year come here to have a glimpse of the monuments. The most dominant attraction in Agra is no doubt is the majestic Taj Mahal. However, the glory of Taj Mahal eclipses the charm of other monuments like Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri and others. Each Mughal Emperor left his mark on this city. It is a city where Mughal Emperors lived on their dreams and each one of them was credited to some unique monument that would be difficult to recreate now even with the best technology available.

Babar was the first Mughal who founded the city and set the first Persian gardens on the banks of the river Yamuna. His grandson Akbar again created a new whole city called Fatehpur Sikri and built his own mausoleum at Sikandra, also credited for the gigantic Agra Fort. Later on, Shah Jahan who was the epitome of Mughal creation renovated the Agra Fort and built mosques and palaces with gem inlaid white marble. Undoubtedly, Agra epitomizes Mughal architectural extravaganza and its rich culture and heritage even overshadows Delhi.

Quick Facts

State – Uttar Pradesh
Location – Western bank of river Yamuna
Climate – Agra falls in the tropical zone and experiences extreme temperature swings
Accommodation – Being one of the top most visiting sites in India, Agra has plenty of hotels ranging from deluxe to budget.
Transportation – Agra can be best covered on foot. Though the city is dusty and little clamorous, may be just walking would not be really convenient for most of the people. There are cycle rickshaws and auto rickshaws in plenty and they don’t even cost much.

Sightseeing and Activities

• Agra Fort – Though the history of Agra fort is very old but it was first came to notice in 1574 when Mughal Emperor Akbar, on the bank of the river Yamuna built this fort. Some of the part of fort was closed to visitors and offers a varied and long list of sites of immense architectural and historical importance. There are exquisite palaces and structures inside the fort. Some of the renowned are Diwan-i-Aam or Hall of Public Audience and Diwan-i-Khas or Hall of Private Audience. The other attractions are Khas Mahal and the Shish Mahal that surely mesmerize tourists.

• Taj Mahal – One of the most beautiful structures of the world epitomizes the love and glory of Emperor Shah Jahan. There are no words appropriately define the magnificence and glory of Taj Mahal. This symbol of love was built in a span of 22 years by more than 20000 artisans and craftsman. Taj is popular among architectures for its incredible perfect proportion and majestic scale. Not only than the detailed carvings that are visible on closer inspection is also fantastic. The hue and color of Taj changes from different mood. Taj can be best viewed in moonlight and remain unforgettable.

• Fatehpur Sikri – The city made up of red sandstone was founded by Emperor Akbar in 1571. He built the city to pay respect to great Sufi saint Seikh Salim Chisti who had predicted the birth of a son to the ruler. This small city is built 40km away from Agra and boasts of incredibly beautiful structures in the form of arches, courtyard, and buildings. All those structures are fine impregnation of Hindu and Islamic architecture. The must see here is include the highest gate of India call Buland Darwaza, the Panch Mahal, the Jama Masjid, the palace of Maryamuzzami, Birbal Bhavan and the life-size chessboard where courtiers could play the role of pieces.

• Shopping – The main shopping centers are Sadar bazaar and Fatehabad Road. There are plenty of good crafts available in the markets. The most popular one is the miniature Taj Mahal. Other noticeable things are shawls, platters, trays, zardozi-embroidered fabrics, leather goods, brassware, carpets and finely carved jewelry. It is advisable to but only from government emporium.

Warli Art – Pictures from the past

2009-06-04T05:26:00.001-07:00

Culture is not one dimensional aspect of life but it is itself a whole that expresses in various ways. . Indian culture, as it is seen today, is an eclectic mix of people and traditions, what with the country being a melting pot of civilizations for thousands of years. The earliest known art form in India is tribal art. While each tribal art form has its own history and influences, there is one that by virtue of its inherent simplicity, commands attention – the unique art of the Warli tribe from Western India.

Warli art was first discovered by the modern world in the 70s and was accepted and appreciated widely among people. The style of Warli art is reflective of a folk and ethnic culture hitherto unknown to Indians. Unlike other traditions such Madhubani that illustrate mythical tales or those that depicts sensuality such as the art forms from Eastern India, Warli paintings deal with the relatively mundane happenings of daily life.

The Warlis are from the western region of India, primarily Thane in Maharashtra, where the tribe resides. It is more or less certain that the Warlis have followed a tradition rooted in the Bronze age, before 3,300 BC, when paintings were done on cave walls. It is also assumed to be the period when the early human discovered agriculture and nature’s seemingly unlimited output.

The Warlis’ perception about life being a recurring cycle is best represented in their paintings with circular patterns that seem to have no beginning or end. Also death for the tribe marks the beginning of a new journey and not an end. This belief is represented in the curved and circular patterns their painting take. This approach to their paintings lends a sense of objectivity that is essential as it gives a keen observer an abstract panoramic view of life. It reinforces the traditional idea that life and death are not ends in themselves, but in fact a continuous process of evolution.

Warli paintings reflect the tribe’s abundant reverence for nature and their simple lifestyle. The Warlis also draw inspiration from regular events in their lives, which make the paintings very easy for the viewer to relate to. Human figures in paintings are small, yet represented with utmost clarity. They are triangular in shape and their limbs are symbolized by thin line drawings. Geometrical design is many a time the basis of the paintings; the paintings are a representation of various events, which look beautiful when the baseline is drawn. On a plain brown background, the paintings look almost three dimensional, making them come alive.

The most renowned of all the traditional Warli paintings is the marriage chauk or square, drawn during weddings. The walls of the kitchen become the canvas for the women as they consider the kitchen walls to be the most sacred in the house. The women are savasini or women who are married and whose husbands are still alive. The center of attraction of the paintings is Goddess Palaghata. The term Palaghata means that the Goddess is, in essence, a teeming pot of plants and fertility. Her presence in wedding ceremonies is a must. Dotted trees form the border of the chauk and enclose the whole painting as if shading the goddess and those participating in the ceremony.

Despite the challenges of maintaining traditions in our transient and fast-paced world, the Warli paintings are a reminder of the rich tribal culture that continues to thrive in our country.

Synopsis - Art And Craft Of India, India Old Art Heritage, India Art Heritage, India Traditional Art, India Village Art, India Rural Art Forms, India Artistic Heritage.

Travel to Shangrila

2009-06-01T07:20:00.000-07:00

Capital of Ladakh and tourist’s resting place Leh, is like a large colony that perched at a height of about 11000 ft. The vast nine storey palace of Sengge Namgyal , the erstwhile ruler of Leh overlooks the small town. In the early morning we left for Nubra Valley, a stark land, once part of the Central Asia trading route that connected eastern Tibet with Turkistan via the famous Karakoram Pass.

While our jeep was silently moving towards Khardung La, we were almost mesmerized by the creeping silence and stark beauty of the place and wondering how could a place be so pristine and gloomy? In the month of June Khardung La top was covered with snow. On our right side there were countless ridges and snowcapped peaks of the mighty Zanskar range. Jaw dropping giant Sasser Massif, an obstinate outcrop of Karakoram range followed us from the north.

Once we landed in the valley, got to understand why this was famed as second most best valley after Switzerland. The valley lying between Khardung La and Siachen Glacier, cut off by Nubra river – a tributary of Shyok river. We stopped at a point and rested for a while, some of us wanted to cruised further so we again trailed to some unknown destination. Cruising further at an average elevation of 11000 ft, the road bifurcated, with the left limb, along Shyok river leading to the monastery town of Disket. We further traveled to Panamic , the last inhabited village enroute to Siachen Glacier. We decided to spend our night at Deksit. Along the road we came across a number of sulphur springs. Next early morning we had driven up to ancient Diskit monastery, finely balanced on a conical mountain ridge. We spent couple of hours in the monastery and after that again chased for something unknown. The valley continued to spring surprises on us. It was an amazing experience of witnessing 60-80 ft sandunes surrounded by lofty snowcapped mountains.

Synopsis - Travel to Ladakh, Ladakh Tour and Travel, Adventure in Ladakh, Ladakh Travelogue, What to do in Ladakh, Ladakh Tourism.

Kalimpong in West Bengal – North Bengal Tourist Resort

2009-05-28T02:33:00.000-07:00

Kalimpong is a small town set at an altitude of 1800m on the Bhutan-Tibet-Sikkim border on the eastern part of Darjeeling. In the ancient time, it was an important trading centre when trading between Tibet, Bhutan and Sikkim were very much active. Later on, the fantastic climate of Kalimpong town in West Bengal attracted British, who later set up their establishment here. The relics of British era such as Graham's home, the Morgan House, Golf Course are still speaking the glory of Kalimpong town in West Bengal.

The most exciting is the off course the journey that starts from Siliguri passing through the dense forest of Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary. This is 64km journey and must be driven carefully. It is a beautiful place where there are a lot of chances to see elephant, bison and tiger. Fleeing deer and colorful flight of peacock are surely enthralling travelers. The journey through the sanctuary ends at Sevok and suddenly travelers expose to a huge canvas painted with forested hills, mighty river and vast river basin. The Teesta River will accompany travelers to Tista Bazaar. From Teesta Bazaar you will have to take a sharp upward turn through the meandering roads toward Kalimpong in West Bengal.

Welcome to Kalimpong! The dense forests, lone roads, distant vision of mighty Himalayas, vast valleys, green meadows, it is indeed a heaven of the eastern part of India. Not only nature but the culture and tradition of Kalimpong are also a nice thing to experience. Kalimpong in West Bengal is a major center for traditional handicrafts, thanka paintings, metal crafts, Tibetan and Leptcha jewelries, wooden mask and other indigenous products. A large number of tourist throughout the year flock to this small town for its unique beauty.

Places of Interest in Kalimpong in West Bengal

1) Durpin Dara – Nestled at an altitude of 1402m is located 3km from the town. It is an observatory point where you can have breathtaking view of Himalayas. Durpin Dara is the highest point in Kalimpong that can be accessible by car from Kalimpong.

2) Pedong Monastery – Pedong monastery is established in 1837, near the Damsang fort. It was made by Bhutanese king and situated just near the Damsang Fort.

3) Flower Nurseries – Kalimpong is famous for exotic flora. There are number of known and unknown species of flowering plants can be found in the nurseries. Also if you are an orchid lover, it is the right place for you.

4) Mangal Dham – recently made, the place is revered among local people, especially popular among tourist for its wonderful architecture.

5) Dr. Graham’s House – Established by Dr. John Anderson in 1900 on the lower slopes of Deola Hills. A fine educational institute is made in a sprawling campus of 500 acres. very year in the month of May a gala festival called May Fair is organised here.

Places of Attractions in and around Kalimpong
1)Lava - Distance-30 km
3)Pedong - Distance 20km
4)Darjeeling- 56km
5) Gangtok - 85km

Curative Indian Laburnum Tree

2009-05-23T02:28:00.000-07:00

The Golden Shower or Indian Laburnum is a deciduous, medium size tree that grows to about 10m in height. The tree flowers after shedding its leaves. While in bloom, it looks extremely beautiful – each branch is laden with a large number of yellow flowers. The ground beneath the tree is often resplendent in yellow with the flowers that cascade in large numbers. Probably, this is the reason why tree is also called Golden Shower.

Laburnum is native to India. One of its Arabic names, Kathaul Hind, also corroborates the fact that it is Indian. Laburnum is planted as an avenue tree and in gardens for its shade and beautiful, yellow flowers. There are many beliefs associated with the Laburnum. In certain parts of Karnataka, the stakes obtained from the tree are driven into the ground and worshipped. In Chhattisgarh, it is commonly believed that the tree brings good luck and fortune; so, people plant it near their houses.

The tree is also useful in many other ways. The wood obtained from the tree is used for making furniture, decorative panelling, etc. The bark from the tree is used in the tanning industry.

Laburnum has a wide range of medicinal uses. The tree finds mention in various treatises on Indian systems of medicines. Almost every part of the tree has some medicinal properties, but the fruit is considered the most important. The fruit contains a jelly like pulp, commonly called ‘ casia pulp’, and is a well known laxative. It is considered so safe that it can be administered even to pregnant women and new born babies.

Fresh Laburnum flowers are used for treating liver and spleen related problems. Seeds obtained from the fruit are emetic and improve appetite, while the root is a strong laxative, antipyretic and provides immunity from viral infections. Laburnum seeds, when ground and mixed with water, can be administered to cattle for controlling diarrhoea. According to Ayurveda, the root is useful for treating burning sensations, skin diseases, leprosy, syphilis and tuberculosis.

Pictorial Gallery of Indian Faith

2009-05-21T04:36:00.000-07:00

The greatest religion is to be true to your own nature. Have faith in yourselves!
- Swami Vivekananda

India is a personification of faith; with us, it is often interchangeable with religion. A mother awaiting her son’s return from war, holy men in various stages of meditation, a child lighting a candle, or the sight of hundreds of devotees silently feeling the presence of a higher power – if faith could be captured in pictures.

Indian Mystic Wanderers

Faith Is Everywhere

Ganga- The eternal source of Faith

Ashirwad (Blessing) From Elephant God

Surrender yourself to the feet of God

Practice Spiritual Meditation in India

2009-05-15T05:47:00.000-07:00

When the mind is balanced and well intense, the supreme self of man is perceptible. When mind is not balanced we only see the apparent man and all the cardinal sins seems prominent in us When, however, the mind becomes cleared, the inner self in otherwise the real man in ourselves comes out in its true self and we do not need to give an effort to recognize that.

If our mind is disturbed, we aren’t able to see things in proper lights. But how in this tumultuous world we prevent the mental disturbance? The Indian meditation practice helps us to attain this stage. Our mind is made of different impressions of our deeds and again these impressions are done because of our lower nature. We can say that the lower natures of man that are selfishness, anger, ambition, desire are all manifestation of ego. The terrible ‘I’ that sowed within us actually governs us from day to night. Unknowingly we think that we are doing well for us and our loved ones but that’s actually sheer immaturity. These natures are like waves that come and go and disturbs our serene lake of mind. Only through intense concentration of mind towards our inner self can pacify the disturbance. Indian meditation practice helps us to attain this stage.

Why we suffer?

When somebody say some bad words to us, it is first outside of us, then it penetrates inside us and as a result we grow angry. At first anger and we are separate entity but soon we become one. It is because anger can easily harmonized with our real nature and we suffer. Only way to avoid this thing is through a sound meditation practice. Indian meditation practice bestows us all the golden rules to start a new journey.

The mind falls naturally into three general states: the mute condition, the hyper condition or scattered state and the peaceful and focused state. These are three qualities of state of mind. These qualities are innate in every living being and manifest in human mind as conscious, subconscious and superconscious state.

How the Mind Becomes Pure?

Many meditation practice of west advocates on focusing mind on some external and simple object first. But Indian meditation practice says that mind should always be focused on inner self. The abode of God we must quest for that. Limit your mind to external object is actually a low form of concentration. Meditation without spiritual awaking gives very little or no result. Scientific study shows that every brain composition is same and there is no such type that one brain is superior to other. Only thing separate us from each other intellectually is the subtle power of mind. Our mind is powerhouse of infinite strength, infinite wisdom, and infinite love. Those who control their mind can control over world. Therefore, we should always concentrate on our inner self. If we continuously practice in this way, we will gradually able to take out our nature that is our Ego. We should concentrate to remove our Ego because ego is only the force behind anger, selfishness, worldly desires, tension and many other vices.

The baffled mind is like a single thread: it can easily be broken; but the concentrated mind is like many pieces of thread twisted together: it is difficult to break. Therefore, we must govern our thoughts and hold them steadily on the object of our concentration. Indian meditation practice is the only way to attain ultimate bliss.

List of Meditation Institutes in India

Vipassana International Academy
Postbox No. 6, Dhamma Giri, Igatpuri 422403, Disst. Nasik Nasik,
India Yoga Centre

Academy of Meditation World Centre of Spiritual Regeneration Movement
Sankaracharya Nagar P.O. Swaraagashram Rishikesh,
India Yoga Centre

Brahma Kumario Ishwari Vidyalaya Meditation Centre
Pandav Bhavan Mt. Abu
India

Institute of Physical & Spiritual Research
11, Sarsdar Patel Marg New Delhi India
Yoga Institute

Tushita Meditation Centre
McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala Kangra District,
Himachal Pradesh 176 219 India

Exotic Shawls of Orissa

2009-05-05T03:01:00.000-07:00

The hand woven shawls of the Dongoria Kondhs in Rayagada district of Orissa are the most eye-catching among the handcrafts of the state. These beautiful shawls of the Dongoria Kondhs are associated with fortunes of matrimony. The cloth is called ‘Kapada Gonda’ or main cloth, embedded colourful motifs on off-white ‘chaddars’ are attractive works of art. The shawls are distinguishing mark to the social standing of the wearer. People wear it on the special occasions like marriages or religious rituals and for the eminent people they also wear it for weekly bazaars.

Kondhs are the regional tribes who inhabited and the Dongor literally means hill. Tribes who inhabit the hilltops here are called Dongoria Kondhs. Niyamaraja, worshiped by the Kondhs as their ancestral god, is the presiding spirit in the Niyamgiri hills of Rayagada and hence, the name of the terrain. Flanked by green hills and pebbled streams, the Dongoria belt stretches for over 115 km. to reach the Dongorias, one has to go uphill for 10 km from Chatikona town, a small railway hub or travel seven km from the Bissamkatak railway junction.

Whenever the tribals go to the plains, The Dongoria Kondh shawls can be identified from a distance. The cloth for the shawl is usually obtained in exchange for paddy or vegetables or even a cock from scheduled caste tribe called Dombs, who live nearby. Each shawl is slightly different in size and style and the motifs woven on them are drawn on impressions from the forests they live in. their surroundings – hills, streams, trees, birds and flowers – find portrayal in their craft.

Woven only by girls for their lovers or brothers, these shawls are suggestive of warmth and comfort and are playing a major role in attracting mates and courting sweethearts, the owner of a spectacular shawl is the cynosure of all eyes. During the ceremonial dances or in a bustling marketplace, if a boy flings his wrap at a girl, it signifies that he wants to marry her. The girl either accepts the shawl or throws it back. If she accepts, the couple meets and marries with the consent of their respective families. At times, the boy makes the marriage proposal by snatching away the shawl from a girl.

Even while it is being embroidered, the shawl undergoes scrutiny, approval and recognition by fellow members or elders of the community. The girl who gets a shawl as a gift from her lover never parts with her precious possession. Today, however, the shawl is sold at a few tribal produce-selling units at prices ranging between Rs 500 and 700.

Fairs and Festival of Central India

2009-04-27T03:02:00.000-07:00

Madhya Pradesh is deeply entwined with festivals and fairs. Apart from celebrating all traditional religious festivals of the Hindus, Muslims and other communities, the state also celebrates its unique tribal festival that are celebrated through different colourful tribes with varied ethnic lifestyle. Here listed down some of the major festivals of Madhya Pradesh.

• Khajuraho Festival of Dance – This seven-day gala (February-March) witnesses performances by the best and the most renowned classical dancers in India and is watched by locals, tourists and celebrities alike. A showcase for the diverse Indian classical dances, the festivals attracts the best performers of Odissi, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, Bharatnatyam etc. The festival is held before the floodlit temples in the Western Group at Khajuraho where the dancers perform on stage as an offering to the temple gods. The festival has been granted the status of an international event and attracts tourists and dance lovers from around the world.

• Shivratri Mela – Shivratri Mela at Pachmarhi, is a unique experience. Held in February or March, the festival is attended by lakhs of devotees of Lord Shiva….who rests in a shrine on the Satpura Range. The Mahadeo Temple is decked up with tridents.

• Chethiyagiri Vihara Festival – A Buddhist festival held at Sanchi at the end of November, Chethiyagiri Vihara Festival is attended by thousands of Buddhist monks and pilgrims. They attend the festival to view the relics of Buddha’s two initial disciples, Sari Puttha and Maha Moggallana, whose remains were discovered in Stupa 3.

• Navratri Festival – Ujjain and its temples come alive during the festival season of Navratri (Dusehra) that usually falls in the month of September or October. Another famous festivals festival of Ujjain in central India is the Kumbh Mela that s held every 12 years. Millions then flock to Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh to take a dip in the holy waters of Shipra River.

• Tansen Music Festival – If you want to catch gold of different and intriguing sounds, styles and instruments, the best place is the Tansen Music Festival at Gwalior, held in November/December. It is attended by India’s best vocalists and musicians whether from the classical, folk or fusion genre. The festival is spread over a period of five nights. Classical music legends perform for the huge audience that gathers here from around the world.

• Bhagoriya Festival – The colourful Bhagoriya festival of the Bhills and Bhilalas held in the Jhabua district, is a festival of fun and joy, and is actually a mass svayamvara, a marriage market, usually held on the various market days falling before the Holi festival in March. As the name of the festival indicates, (to run), after choosing their partners, the young people elope and are subsequently accepted as husbands and wife by society through predetermined customs. Young men and women rejoice with ritual dancing to the beat of drums and sweet melody of bansuri (flutes).

Synopsis - Madhya Pradesh Fairs and Festival, Information on Madhya Pradesh Festivals, Madhya Pradesh Fairs, Information on Fairs and Festivals of Madhya Pradesh, What to Experience in Madhya Pradesh.

Bull Fight Festival in West Bengal

2009-04-18T02:47:00.000-07:00

Bull fight is not just a Spanish monopoly but in our own country a small village called Barasharsha in West Bengal, don the mantle of matador. During the Gorukhunta festival beings on the eve of Kali Puja/Diwali, the humble tribals (adivasi farmers) usurp the role of matadors for three days of adrenaline pumping excitement.

It is not an easy task to face the bull and for those farmers who betray a small and frail image. However, they take the challenge with their sheer guts. Indeed, it takes lots of that quality to face a bull and an angry one at that. According to village lore, the bulls, tired of ploughing, pulling carts and doing all their masters’ bidding all year long, know they have only three days to even the score. The festival traces its roots as far back as memory itself.

The event is undoubtedly a great affair for the villagers. For some days before the great event the village is charged with excitement. At the local football field, the venue for the action, bamboo poles were being stabbed deep into the ground. The bulls, which pack a powerful punch, will be leashed to them to give the farmers-turned-matadors a fighting chance.

The bull fight occurs only on the last day of the festival. The first day is spent sanctifying the ground on which the fights are scheduled and sprucing up the houses to invite Goddess Lakshmi, who ensure the villagers get a good crop. On the second day, the bulls are worshipped, with women tendering apologies for the rough treatment they will get the next day.

Little wonder, then, that for a month preceding the festival, the stars of the show are given treatment fit for the Gods. Fresh grass, enlivening massage, long baths and plenty of grazing hours to prime them for the fight. On the day of festivities, the bulls are smeared with vermillion, their horns wrapped in streamers and bodies painted to make them look attractive. It’s a sight to behold. The villagers throng the field dressed in their best. Spectators eagerly await with soaring spirits the participants, who are as high on hooch. The bulls, in comparison, seem a tame lot. However, not very long, the deafening beats of drums and baiting of crowd have the desired effect. What follows can well classify as an animal activist’s worst nightmare – a ton of tethered temper against a mob of maniac matadors and at the end both parties are thoroughly exhausted.

It seems a grand affair, yet today, with the community dwindling – many having bartered traditional sources of sustenance for the good life and better living that cities promise – such traditions are on the verge of disappearing forever. With its origins lost in time and the norms diluted, only the last bastions of adivasis fringing Bankura, Purulia and the lone village of Barasharsha stick to this timeless ritual.

Synopsis - West Bengal Tribal Fairs, Tribal Festivals in West Bengal, Village Festivals in Rural Bengal

A Path of Flowers – Trek to Valley of Flowers

2009-04-15T02:52:00.000-07:00

As the first showers of the monsoon hit the parched plains of North India, dusty hills turn into green carpets and there is romance in the air. A different breed of tourists, namely adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, hardy trekkers and botanists, heads for the higher reaches of Himalayas in search of a different kind of holiday.

While it is true there are numerous valleys and meadows that would make ideal trekking zones, it is the Valley of Flowers in the Chamoli district of the Garhwal Himalayas that is the most popular. You can travel by car all the way to Govind Ghat, 10km away from Joshimath. The 13km trek from Govind Ghat is common for pilgrims going to Hemkund Sahib, till Ghangaria, also reffered to as Govind Dham. The trail passes through a narrow valley sandwiched between mountain ranges. On the way we crossed a few waterfalls by the side of the river, as well as the hamlets of Pulna and Bhuyunder. Pitching our tents a little short of Ghangaria that evening, we called it a day.

Next morning, we reached the bifurcation of treks for Hemkund and Valley of Flowers. We took the left for the valley. As we moved along the trek, thousands of flowers seemed to greet us. Finding myself in the large valley, I was rooted to the spot. Right before my eyes were thousands of flowers of different hues. It seemed that a fairy had cast her magic wand over the valley.

The flowers remain in full bloom between May and September. During this period, the valley changes colours like a cinema screen, it you here in May and June, you may find carpets of yellow caltha palustrisvar and white anemones sprinkled with the violet iris, lavender roskoia and the yellow and magneta pedicularis.

As the monsoon sets in, the valley is awash with pink and red robes of inpatients and bistorta. I also saw patches of campanulas, morina longifolia and many exotic plants and flowers of every imaginable shapes and hues.

I had this tremendous feeling to stay in the valley for many days but it is not possible for me and my friends for stay there for long as there is no permit to stay there and only three groups at a time were allowed to enter into the valley. However, before leaving the place we had decided to come here soon.

Tags - Valley of flowers, path to valley of flowers, valley of flowers adventure, how to reach valley of flowers, valley of flower travel guide

Indian Textile – A Hand-woven Story

2009-03-31T23:14:00.001-07:00

You will hardly find me striding through back lanes and narrow alleys in the cities that I visit. It’s a conscious aspect of my risk management and strategy. Yet, in Varanasi, I was drawn into their shadows like an insect to the underside of a stone; narrow lanes or gallis are as much a part of the city’s character as the famous ghats that lead down to the Ganges. Not to explore them means forsaking a chance to understood more about the planet’s longest continually inhabited city and its best known industry, handloom weaving.

Even without heading deep into the labyrinth of gallis, it’s possible to view and buy products crafted by Varanasi weavers. In common with cities throughout the country, handicraft shops and sari stores are never difficult to locate. Hand-painted signs direct tourists up from the ghats, touts offer anyone gripping a camera an invitation to what they claim to be their family shops and silk emporiums in the streets around Godaulia and the chowk.

Although I recoiled at the traders’ high asking prices, I couldn’t help but be impressed at the quality of many of the heavy silk brocades. I ran my fingers over the smoothness of the fabrics, appreciated the multi-toned sheen. It became clear to me why the delicate patterns of Banarasi saris are so sought after ahead of weddings. Royal patronage was a factor in establishing Varanasi’s reputation for high quality silks. Maharajas from across India, who built palatial residences down by the ghats, were patrons of the city’s weavers. They used the silks not only in their apparel but also for the canopies that gracefully and fashionably provided shade to royalty during the Mughal rule.

Apart from the presence of electric lighting and punched cards hanging above the looms, a layman would notice very few differences between the wooden handlooms that operate in Varanasi today and those of bygone centuries. Weavers sit with their legs hanging over cool pits and use a shuttle, known as the nar, traditionally made from the buffalo horn. Anecdotal evidence suggests that weavers are descendants of the families who moved to the city from Gujarat in the 1300s, though some historians believe the majority of the artisans relocated from Delhi about a hundred years later. Even before that – way back in the seventh century – Bana Bhatta, the poet who composed Harshacharita mentions that brocades was being woven in the city.

Today, many of Varanasi’s handloom weavers believe that no generation has faced anything that quite matches the challenge of the present age. Changes in the global economy mean cheap competition from abroad. They feel that in a price oriented mass market, hand produced wares are overlooked in favour of machine produced goods. They are complaints that middlemen, known gaddidars, buy the finished goods at low prices and quickly sell them for a sizable profit. There are even reports that some weavers, frustrated with their low pay, have moved away from weaving saris and now produce filter meshes for use in the automotive industry.

Fortunately, though, a number of families are still able to weave themselves a living. High quality, hand produced fabrics are now much sought after by elite fashion houses.

Synopsis - Indian Textile, Information on Indian Handwoven Cotton Industry, Indian Textile Industry, Story of Varanasi Handloom Weavers, Information about Handloom Weavers of India

Exotic Spa Therapies

2009-03-31T23:14:00.000-07:00

Magic of Mewar

Indulge in a treatment that rejuvenates and revitalises, as you experience the ‘Magic of Mewar’. Start off with Honey Seed body scrub, in which black sesame seeds and other natural products combine with honey to make an excellent body cleanser. Follow it up by a full body massage, wherein the signature Oberoi massage use palms and fingertips to apply pressure with continuous strokes to stimulate blood circulation. The Ayur face message with mild aromatic facial oil then leaves the skin glowing. The finishing touch is provided by the calming Marigold flower bath before you emerge completely revitalised.

Indulge at: Oberoi Spa by Banyan Tree at The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur
Time Taken: Two and a half hours
Health Factor: Honey refreshes the skin and marigold has astringent properties, which leaves the skin feeling firm.

Dry Floatation

Increase your perception and awareness followed by deep relaxation over ‘Dry Floatation’. A floterium or a small room size tank containing warm saline water guarantees buoyancy, while the ceiling is lighted with optic fiber light and energising music. We recommend that you spend time in the darkness, isolating yourself from any kind of external stimuli. Floating not only helps in relieving pain, but also boosts energy, reduces blood pressure, eliminates addiction and releases toxins from the body. An hour of floatation is equal to four hour of sleep.

Indulge at: Amatra Spa, The Ashok, New Delhi
Time taken: 60 minutes
Health Factor: Relaxes the mind and increases sensitivity.

Kaivalya Spa

To beat the stress and enjoy an oasis in midst of dry land of Rajasthan, Kaivalya Spa is a respite for the travellers who come to Pushkar. Kaivalya actually a term from yoga that means total detachment. It portrays the yogi, who has attained kaivalya, as an entity who has gained independence from all bondages and achieved the absolute true consciousness. The spa is an integral part of Pushkar Resorts and a relaxation point where you can indulge in Jacuzzi, steam bath and the gentle exfoliation with full Aromatherapy body massage to rejuvenate the body as well as mind.

Indulge at: Kaivalya Spa
Time Taken: More than an hour
Health Factor: Relaxes the body, also treatment for patients suffering from bone and muscle problem.

Alepa

Experience Alepa all on your own or in a group. You may apply the paste on yourself or on each other, for an interactive, engaging and bonding experience. As you linger in the vapours of the hammam, feel the steam moisten and soften your skin. Savour the sacred act of anointing the paste on your body yourself, by your companion or therapist, as you relax. Savour the sweet fragrance of essential oils and the contact of clay speckled with herbs. After the mud dries, spray yourself or your companion with rose water to soften the dry clay. To rinse off, step under the water ledge for an invigorating outdoor shower.

Indulge at: Jiva Spa at Taj Malabar, Cochin
Time Taken: 120 minutes
Health factor: Detoxifies, leaving you rejuvenated and the skin taut.

Bird’s Eye View

2009-03-31T22:39:00.000-07:00

Nestled in the lap of nature, Karnataka’s Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is the ideal destination for both, amateur and seasoned bird watchers. Bird watching is a hobby and also a passion for some. Dr. Salim Ali, the famous ornithologist, had said, “Man does not live by bread alone. Just look at the people who have no hobbies and spend all their time solely in earning a living. After fifty when they retire from official chair-warming, they don’t know what to do with all the time in their hands and just spend it watching the clock! If they cultivated a hobby like bird watching – it is very healthy because you have to be out of doors to watch birds – they would have lived longer to enjoy their pension.”

There is much that one can do amidst the serene settings of the sanctuary – take long walks in the verdant surroundings, go for boat rides or coracle rides, pursue bird watching or simply do nothing but listen to the wind rustling through bamboo shoots! The peaceful settings are complemented by the absence of crowds – no raised voices, no loud music and hence no disturbance to the natural habitat of these birds. Birds are seemingly unafraid and felt safe here, allowing us to view them at close quarters. In fact, at such proximity, one doesn’t even need binoculars to observe the birds, although a pair would certainly aid in getting finer details such as the plumage on the neck, the colour of the legs, and the shape of the beak – all useful inputs in identifying a bird species.

The ambience is filled with characteristic sounds of the birds chirping and the young ones seeking food, and we also noticed a few adults dedicated to just protecting territory. On the other hand, the slightly grown-up birds, soon to embark on their maiden flight, were busy training themselves in stretching and flapping wings.

A visit to Ranganathittu is a highly recommended antidote to the stress the inevitably develops as a part of corporate life. Only a seeking spirit, and if possible, some beginner’s book on bird-watching is needed. For a bird lover, there is incredible pleasure in being able to identify birds on your own and it is possible to pursue bird watching in modules; even a single day spent at a bird sanctuary reveals the vast treasures of the avian world. If hooked, one would return again and again to get deeper into the subject. If not, one would simply draw the benefits of the relaxing ambience and feel recharged.

Fact File

Getting There

By air – Jet Airways has daily flights to Bengaluru – the closest major airport from various parts of the country.
By rail: The nearest railway station, Mysore, is 18 km away from the sanctuary.
By road: The sanctuary is on the Bengaluru-Mysore highway. KSRTC buses ply from Bengaluru to Mysore every 15-20 minutes, taking 3 hrs to reach.

Accommodation

There are a few riverside cottages available near the sanctuary. One can also choose to stay in Mysore.

Tags - Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary in Karnataka, Famous Bird Sanctuary in Karnataka, Bird Sanctuaries in India

Tribal Life of Chattisgarh

2009-03-31T04:24:00.000-07:00

Chattisgarh is home to the oldest and densest tribal populations in India that still remains largely unadulterated by the outside world. Thanks to the remoteness and the inaccessibility of the region, the tribes have managed to keep living in more or less the same manner as their ancestors have for centuries. Subsistence farming and foraging for forest produce continuous to be the mainstay of their livelihood.

Ageless Art

The ancestral legacy of the various tribes on in their arts and handicrafts that are studied by design schools all over the world as examples of unadulterated design. The relative isolation of the region and its diverse tribes means that their crafts have remained unaffected by alien influences and are crafted in more or less the same fashion as they had been for centuries.

The region’s unique terracotta, bell metal and wrought iron sculptures are indeed distinct and could not possibly by mistaken for the work of any other region. A number of ‘Shilpagrams’, or artist villages in the district offer the perfect opportunity to witness the master craftsmen at work. These villages are not tourist traps set up with the specific purpose of lightening your pockets. They are real villages, where the artists have lived with their families for generations. The tradition traces its origins to the kings of Bastar, who recruited artists and gave them entire villages to live and work in.

Nagarnar, an hour’s drive from the district headquarters at Jagdalpur, is one such potter’s village. Near little houses with thatched roofs and walls freshly plastered with mud and decorated with colourful tribal motifs line the narrow streets. Konda Gaon, 90 km from Jagdalpur, is a sculptor’s village. Jaidev Baghel, a master craftsman whose passport would put most CEOs to shame, is somewhat of a local celebrity who has earned international acclaim for his exquisite bell metal sculptures. Individual threads of wax are placed for each strand of hair, each eyelas, each wrinkle on the smooth form made from clay. The clay mould with the wax detail is covered with another layer of clay mixed with straw and heated so that the wax melts, leaving behind a mould between the two clay surfaces. Molten metal is then poured into this cavity and allowed to cool. The mould has to be broken to reveal the metal sculpture, which means no two pieces can ever be the same.

Tags - Tribes of Chattisgarh, Village Life in Chattisgarh, Chattisgarh Village Tourism, Chattisgarh Rural Tourism

Bhimbetka Caves – A Journey Into The Past

2009-03-27T02:45:00.000-07:00

No graffiti. No love affair on the wall. This is the best feature of the caves in Madhya Pradesh. The biggest repository of pre historic art in India and are one of the earliest dwellings of human beings. Bhimbetka Caves are located 46 km S-E of Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh.

The caves are the treasure house of prehistoric art in the country. Dr. V.S Wakankar, a renowned archaeologist discovered the caves while on his way to Nagpur in 1958. After that it took 16 years to excavate the area. The entire region has more than 600 caves. Some of these caves preserve paintings that traverse various eras. There are enchanting rock paintings that date back to Palaeolithic, Mesolithic and Neolithic period. Some of the paintings are huge linear figures, which have then evolved to become smaller, shapely and more precise.

Bhimbetka Caves – The Covetous Place in Madhya Pradesh

Every year tourist flocks to the caves and in a short span of time, the caves have become the most visited place in Madhya Pradesh. These caves have been used as shelter by the people from the earliest periods. The paintings are a mirror showing the evolution of humanity through time. The style of paintings from separate periods is so different that you can easily differentiate between them.

Paintings of Bhimbetka Caves

The paintings show striking similarity to the aboriginal rock paintings of the Savanna region of Australia done by the pygmies of the Kalahari Desert and the Palaeolithic Lascaux Cave paintings of France. Paintings are of different illustrations. Various activities like birth, burials, dancing, hunting and animal hunting are depicted in these paintings. Pictures of animals like rhinoceros, tiger, buffalo, bears, antelopes, lions etc. find depicition. The colours of the paintings have avoided the vagaries of time. Natural red and white pigments are common colours used in the paintings, green and yellow are also used.

When To Visit Bhimbetka Caves

It is open throughout the year. You can visit the caves anytime of the year. 12 caves are open to the public and Bhimbetka is very easily accessible from Bhopal.

Tags - Bhimbetka Caves, Bhimbekta Caves in Madhya Pradesh, Bhimbetka Caves Tour, Bhimbetka Caves World Heritage Site

Love in the Air

2009-03-20T02:39:00.000-07:00

When kite carry hidden love letters, they soar on more than the wind.

In India kite flying season, which starts in April, tends to peak with Independence Day. but going by Old Delhi lore, there was something more than kites soaring. kite flying season in the Walled City is also known as lover's season and Independence Day is when this season of romance reaches its pinnacle.

Chunna Ja, Mirza Ghalib's dancer lover, used to receive romantic couplets on kites. Ghalib himself used to make the kites and fly them from his haveli in Gali Qasimjan. Though the romance didn't materialise on the ground.

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Even today, the young girls are seen roaming around on their rooftops - at least safer off than in some dingy corner in the intertwining Old Delhi streets. These girls accept messages ti fix the point of meeting place, there are lines from Hindi movies. Usually the girl play safe by not replying to the messages. May be a glance is enough!

Sometimes, the girls are with companions. The lover too is vigilant as to who is beside his sweetheart on the rooftop. If it is her mother, father or brother, he indulges in an ordinary kite flying match, where he tries to cut the string of another's kite with his skill.

With or without hidden secrets, Old Delhi's kite-flying is a unique spectacles. Kites of all hues and sizes can be seen in all the localities. Various kind of kites such as Tiranga, Pari, Chand-tra, Kal chura, Bhedia, Shakrapara, Puncchal, Angara, Nagdara and others.

A Paradise is Found

2009-03-19T06:55:00.000-07:00

One of the most neglected tourist destinations of India, Tawang is a paradise found. One can easily get mesmerize by the cloud-kissed mountains, yellow mustard fields, dense forests and glistening rivers at every turn. Surreal experiences where one get lost in the beauty of untouched landscapes and in the brilliant hues of mountains.

It was on 10 days Puja holidays when we four friends decided to venture into some untouched yet exciting place. We didn’t take much time in argumentation to decide the destination; it was surely the north eastern part of India. We reached Guwahati in the evening and convinced to stay there for couple of days. We started a long journey to Tezpur in the next day afternoon and reached the transit before reaching our destination, Tawang, at a distance of 400 km uphill nestled at 10000 ft.

There were bit of unrest and there was some heavy security at that time. Everything seemed shut and a grim silence hung about the place. We were told that there was a strike. Though not so disappointment but surely a dull beginning to a holiday. We overnight stayed in Tezpur.

On the second morning the morning sunlight enlivened our adventurous spirit and started our journey to cross into Arunachal Pradesh from Assam. Dirang, en route to Tawang was our destination. We covered the route with the glimpse of mighty Brahmaputra. A beautiful garden overlooking the river was once the prison of a princess. We continued the journey and gradually the landscape had changed from rough hill to golden mustard fields, lush dense forests, gushing streams, waterfalls and colourful orchids filled the landscape as we reached Diranga hill station, tucked away in a valley of orchards. The cold had just set in…that was exactly the adventure we were looking for. We had begun to enjoy our holiday.

We all agreed on one voice that we didn’t take any bad decision to come to this place. People called Kashmir a heaven in earth and we realized that this place was the real one. A valley of clouds hid everything from mountain peaks to grasslands, flowers and birds, and touched our cheeks gently just as we got down to capturing it on our lens. On the third day, we were driving from Dirang, a small hill station in Arunachal Pradesh towards Tawang, set high in the Eastern Himalayas. The mountains curved steeply around us River Kameng flowed along with us.

We most enjoyed the Sela Pass, where history and romance meet at 13,700 ft. At the peak of Indo-China war in the 1960s, Sela was a local maidan who had fallen in love with Jaswant Singh, an Indian soldier. She died a martyr and the pass was named after her and was marked as a boundary between India and China. There are little shops lined the road and trace of local people there. We enjoyed much of local noodles and a cuppa.

Only thing that perturbed us all is the temperature. There was seldom sunshine and the temperature recorded below zero. We put layers after layers clothing but our skins were much habituated with tropical city’s climate. Tawang, which literally means chosen horse, is full of monasteries and mystical gompas on one end and a war memorial on the other. The monastery once belonged to the Mompa people who reigned in the Mon kingdom that stretches from Tawang right to Sikkim, was founded in 17th century. Tawang is known for its lakes and waterfalls and we set out looking for them.

We saw several bunkers used by the Indian Army way back in the 1960s. The war memorial was a tribute to the martyrs. We crossed several tombstones on the way. It is a scary thought that this peaceful place was once a battlefield. Our enthusiasm and love for this place grew as we were discovering the landscape more and more. However, there is always an end to every journey as so ours.

Fact File

Getting there

By air: The closest airport is at Guwahati. Jet airways has regular flights to Guwahati from across the country.
By rail: The nearest railhead to Tawang is at Rangapara, Assam.
By road: The best bet is to get to Tezpur, then drive to Bhalukpong in West Kamend district and from there to Dirang/Bomdila and Sela Pass and finally Tawang. It is advisable to break the journey and stay in Bomdila or Dirang en route to Tawang.

Accommodation

Government tourist lodges at reasonable rates are available at Bomdila and Tawang. At Tawang Inn provide good accommodation and other facilities. Smaller hotels, lodges are available at both the places.

Travel Tips

Any domestic tourist coming to Arunachal Pradesh has to obtain an Inner Line Permit. Inner Line Permits can be obtained from officers of the Government of Arunachal Pradesh.

Tags - Arunchal Pradesh Travel, Arunachal Pradesh Travel Tips, Arunachal Pradesh Travelogue, Travel to Tawang Monastery, Tawang Monastery Travel Guide

Mountain Biking on Indian Hills

2009-03-19T06:41:00.000-07:00

India is a destination that offers you numerous adventurous sports, Mountain Biking being a popular among them. From the tricky mountain ranges of the Himalayas to the popular trekking tracks in the southern part of India, mountain biking is truly a pleasurable adventure sport to undertake in India.

Biking in Hills is no less than climbing a mountain. It drain out all the energy but it provide the enthusiastic rider with a feeling of utmost exhilaration, this sport is for skilful people who have loads of strength to conquer the rickety terrains in India.

Since riders are often far from civilization, there is a strong ethic of self-reliance in the sport. Riders learn to repair their broken bikes or flat tires to avoid being stranded miles for help. This reliance on survival skills accounts for the group dynamics of the sport. Another good thing about Mountain Biking is that it does not emit any form of pollution as other means of transportation. Hence, it is good for our eco-system too, as it does no harm to the environment.

If you are looking for the enthusiasm of challenging the climbs and some of the best sliding for mountain biking in the world, then head for the Himalayan ranges in India. Set amongst ever-changing and beautiful scenery, Himalayan Mountain ranges offers some hard to beat tracks for the adventure lovers. Most of these mountain bike tours here involve some single track riding and asks for technical skills.

Off-road trips are cheaper because they involve camping or staying in fairly off beaten path accommodations. In general, mountain biking trips focus on those who are born to be wild. Mountain Biking in Himachal Pradesh is truly a mind boggling experience. He entire Himachal Pradesh is appealing as well as adventurous. The terrain is challenging enough but the friendly ecosystem here makes biking an absolute satisfaction.

Don’t forget to pack you bag with all essentials. Services, facilities or whatsoever required for Mountain Biking, in India everything is easily available. Also you get high quality bikes and cycles with modern gears and water bottle cages, helmet, water-bottles, apparels, back pack etc. equipments to safety measures; here you get everything pretty easily. In addition, one can also make use of mountain guides, maps, tools and other things necessary.

Further Read

Rock Climbing Adventure Guide

Contemporary Indian Art

2009-03-19T06:29:00.000-07:00

Contemporary art from India is seeking space in global market on equal footing. But the challenge is these fast changing times is to retain the Indian ethos in our art form. The sheen of traditional art hasn’t diminishing in India. Lord Ganesha is being constantly re-invented in painting, designing and sculptures; and keeping many homes under his auspicious shade. Batik, tanjore, Pichwai, Kangra and Jaipur paintings; brass, bronze, stone and wooden statues of deities still find good markets. But most of these are fine specimen of craft rather than art. ‘Art’ – said George Elliot – ‘is the nearest thing to life’. And art, like life, is one that could constantly re-invent itself with time.

India has a rich artistic tradition throughout her history. But idealism, rather than Hellenistic realism, had dominated her art (once their ways crossed in 2nd century BC culminating in Gandhara School of Buddhist Art). Indian art was an expression of her spirituality. The individual identities of the artists, whose work continue to amaze us at a distance of a millennium, remain unknown.

There is no dearth of artists in India, and when it comes to contemporary Indian art, the list has new names being added every second. In such a scenario, work of few does stand out. There are several artists whose expressions of inner self is well depicted on the canvas. Raghu Vyas, Budhaditya Chattopadhya, Gautam Bhatia, Nitin Mukul and Alexander Keefa, Pratibha Singh, Tybe Mehta, Amrita Shergil, Maqbool Fida Hussain, Rameswar Broota, Manit Bawa and Satish Gujral are few without whose mention any write up is incomplete.

While contemporary artists in India take inspiration from various sources and styles, Indian art still retains its distinct ‘Indianness’. Newer styles never seen before are also emerging on the scene; forms and styles, which cannot be categorised into any specific existing genre.

Tags - Indian Art, Indian Modern Artists, Indian Contemporary Art, Modern Indian Art