Sunday, August 26, 2007

DELHI VACATIONS

Delhi - Immortal City

Sprawling on the banks of the river Yamuna, Delhi, the capital of India, typifies the soul of the country. In time the city conceals within its bosom annals of civilisations that flourished for more than three thousand years. Indraprastha, according to legends, the city founded by the Pandavas in the times of the epic Mahabharata (1500 B.C.), was located near the Old Fort that stands on a large mound overlooking the river.

Since those early days many dynasties and rulers flourished on its regal soil. The legacy of that past survives in the many monuments left behind by the regents, each a chronicle of the glory of its time and an imprint of the character of the ruler. Today, the city is a curious blend of the modern and traditional, skyscrapers, beautiful gardens and wide tree-lined avenues perpetuate the Mughal passion of landscaping and architectural excellence. More important, however, Delhi blends within its folds the great cultural variety of India; an unceasing range of activity, a million ways of saying 'You are Welcome'.

Tourist Hot Spots
Delhi's history is so ancient that the story of its origin derives more from mythology than written history. Recorded history testifies to the fact that at least eight different cities have been established here. Through the ages, different rulers and their followers have left their mark on Delhi in the form of numerous architectural gems of great historical and social value.

Red Fort:
Red Fort is laid out along the river Yamuna as an irregular octagon , surrounded by a wall of about 2.4 km in circumference and is built of red sandstone. The Mughal king Shah Jahan transfered the capital from Agra to Delhi and the Fort was completed in 1648. The fort has two main entrances , the Delhi Gate and the Lahori Gate which faces the famed Chandni Chowk market.The Fort has Diwan-e-am, and Diwan-e-Khas where the king would grant audience to the public and would grant audience to important people respectively. Another attraction is Light and Sound show held in the evenings.

Qutub Minar:
This magnificent structure in the southern part of the capital was built by a Muslim King , Qutub-ud-din Aibak in 1199 A.D. A part of it which he could not finish was completed by another Muslim King Iltutmish. Minar is 72.5 m high and has as its base a mosque. In front of the imposing structures an Iron Pillar believed to have been built in the 5th century A.D. which has not caught rust ever since it was built.

India Gate:
Straight down the road from Rashtrapati Bhavan is India Gate which is primarily a memorial to unknown soldier. Designed by Lutyens , the 42 meter high structure is a war memorial in honour of soldiers who died during the second World War. The structure has an eternal flame (Amar Jawan Jyoti) to honour the memory of the unknown soldiers.

Jantar Mantar:
Within the Connaught Place are is the Jantar Mantar observatory built by the Rajput King of Jaipur, Sawai Jai Singh in 1724. It was believed to have been built with mmasonry instruments for observing the movements of the stars and the planets.

Humayun's Tomb :
This tomb, which as built by emperor Humanyun's wife, took eight years to complete. The emperor's wife Begai Begum was buried in the tomb and the structure is first of its kind built in the center of a well - planned garden. The combination of white marble and red sand stone was a great influence on later Mughal architecture. It is generally regarded as a prototype of the famed Taj Mahal of Agra.

Lotus Temple:
Is a very recent architectural marvel of the Bahai faith and is visible from several spots in south Delhi. Located in Kalkaji in the south of Delhi. It is Lotus shaped and has rightly been given the name.It is made up of marble,cement dolomite, and sand.

Rastrapati Bhavan:
Formely the Viceregal Lodge, the building is the highlight of Lutyen's New Delhi and was completed in 1929 at a cost of 12,53,000 pound sterling. Located in an area of 130 hectares, the palace has 340 rooms. At one time, 2,000 people were required to look after the building and serve the Viceroy's household. The lodge also has impressive garden called the Mughal Garden, which is open to public twice in a year, usually in February and March.

Tughlaqabad:
The walled city and fort of Tughlaqabad with its 13 gateways lies east of the Qutab Minar.The third city of Delhi, it was built by Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq.Its construction involved a legendary quarrel with the saint Nizamuddin, when the Tughlaq ruler took away the workers the latter wanted for work on his shrine.


Cultural Capital of India - Arts and Crafts
As the seat of empires for centuries, and with royalty as patrons, Delhi has long been a cultural center, attracting the best of painters, musicians and dancers. Though today's patrons have changed, Delhi is more than ever the cultural capital of the country, and is also visited by foreign dancers, musicians and theatre groups en route to the Far East.

Prime Attractions
October to March is the "cultural season" of Delhi, during which time a plethora of events take place in the fields of the visual and performing arts. The best of the performing arts representing the range of classical dance forms and schools of music from all over India can be viewed at Kamani Auditorium, the Chamber Theatre at Triveni Kala Sagam, FICCI Auditorium, the India International Center, Siri Fort, LTG Auditorium, Pragati Maidan and Sri Ram Centre, where one can enjoy the privilege of seeing, and listening to, the legendary gurus as well as their disciples.

Theatre
Theatre in Delhi receives a constant impetus from the presence of the National School of Drama. The variety offered ranges from Hindi translations of European plays, to regional theatre, as well as folk forms. Delhi's numerous art galleries reflect the country's burgeoning art scene. Well-known and new artists from all over the country display their works in these galleries.


Food and Specialties
From age - old eateries in the by lanes of the Walled City to glitzy, specialty restaurants in five - star hotels, Delhi is a moveable feast. It offers a choice of Indian and international cuisine in different ambiences to suit varied budgets. For gourmets, Delhi is synonymous with Mughlai and Frontier cuisine. The best of Mughlai cuisine can be enjoyed at Karim, (both in Jama Masjid and Nizamuddin) where recipes, dating from the times of the Mughals have been the closely - guarded secret of generation of chefs.

Popular Places
Delhi Ka Aangan (Hyatt Regency), Darbar (Ashoka Hotel) and Corbetts (Claridges) are among the many options available in the expensive range, while Gulati Restaurant (Pandara Market), Angeethi (Asiad Village) and Degchi (Regal Building) are among those catering to more modest budgets. The finest Frontier cuisine is available at the Bukhara (Maurya Sheraton), Frontier (Ashoka Hotel) and Baluchi (The Hilton). Delhi is also synonymous with the omnipresent tandoori chicken and tandoori roti, which, when freshly had from the tandoor, makes a delicious meal. This is often available at roadside dhabas at a moderate cost.

Shopping in Delhi
Delhi is a veritable paradise for shoppers, who can buy objects ranging from the simplest of Indian handicrafts to international designer labels, and often within the same shopping area. Delhi is unique in that it has representative outlets for the handicrafts of each Indian state. This in it self presents a staggering array of goods, and at very affordable prices

For visitors to Delhi, shopping is high on the list of "things to do". Tourists find a wide choice of items- such as carpets, silks, jewellery, leather and silver ware, handicrafts and handprinted cotton - that are synonymous with India. Each item is available in a range of prices, depending on the quality and the outlet. The exploration of Delhi's markets could be begin at Chandni Chowk. Despite the pressures of traffic and population, its historic land marks survive to tell the story of the last three centuries.

There are some antique stores behind Jama Masjid, and more lining the entrance to the Red Fort, where the Meena Bazar once was. These offer items arranging from jewellery to painting and furniture, and cater almost entirely to tourists. Connaught Place, New Delhi's original shopping arcade was planned as part of the Imperial capital in 1911. The Santushi Shopping Arcade opposite the Ashoka Hotel has become another popular up market haunt.

Tuesday, August 21, 2007

GOA VACATIONS

Goa - Where even the Sun Worship the Sea
Many moods of life....caressed by nature... Silvery sands cascading into turquoise turbulence.....Waves receding marking the golden beaches with shells. Sun burnt colonial cottages and white washed chruches standing in mute testimony to a glorious past. Wondrous cuisine, mouth watering flavours and aromas whiffing in the air. Beckoning and era bygone. Unveiling the moods of life in an alluring land - Goa.

Goa - The Land Of Exotica
Bathed in the warmth, washed in the waves, the sands embalming the spirit of time. Colours of life transforming the bright yellow to a fiery orange and to a mysterious rust; all merging into a pensive blue. Sheer poetry of life coming into existence in an amalgamation of celebrations-celebrating the joy of being in a land that is Goa.

Legancy of a Glorious Past Goa
For centuries Goa has taken in its folds dynasties and religions-Mauryas, Kadambas, Yadavas, Chalukyas, Dravidians, Aryans and Delhi Sultans. Each era leaving behind an indelible mark on the sands of Goa. A collage of the Portuguese architecture, Oriental richness and Imperial grandeur, all blending into one culture-Goan!

Sun, Sand and Sea
Goa is endowed with a coastline that stretches to almost 100km. Pristine, palm fronted beaches entice tourists with their inviting azure waters. Though Calangute, Vagator, Anjuna and Baga beaches are part of the same coastline, each is different in its natural beauty and temperament. There are a wide variety of places to stay and eat suiting every budget. The action point has shifted from Calangute, the paradise of the sixties to the adjacent Baga beach. Anjuna Beach is famous for its Wednesday flea market and its ability to attract all kinds of eccentrics and die-hard hippies.

Abode Of Gods
Built in the 16th century, Basilica of Bom Jesus is the most popular and famous of the churches of Goa. Dedicated to Infant Jesus, the mortal remains of St.Francis Xavier, kept in a rich casket are enshrined here. Other than Basilica of Bom Jesus the Church of Our Laldy of Rosary, the Se Catthedral with its 14 splendid altars and the convent of St.Francis of Assisi are some of the other magnificent sites.

The Hindu Gods are partial to Goa too! The better known temples include Shri Shanta Durga, Shri Mangeshi, Shri Saptakoteshwar and Tambdi Surla temples. Mahadeva temple at Tambdi Surla is the only specimen of Kadamba Yadav architecture of the 13th century in Basalt.

Cruises & Outings
River cruises and other past times: The most popular cruise on the river Mandovi is Santa Monica. Situated near the typically Goan village of Aldona is a mineral water spring of Pomburpa which can be approached by a short cruise. Water sports facilities are available at Dona Paula, 7 km from Panaji, the state capital. Dona Paula also offers a magnificent view of the Zauri river estuary and Mormugao harbor. 60km from Panaji are Dudhsagar falls, plummeting hundreds of feet, cascading to form one of the richest ecosystems.

Goa- Where Life Is A Perpetual Celebration
Three days a year Goa surrenders to the spirit of fun & frolic and celebrates the Carnival. A Portuguese legacy,Goans celebrate the Carnival with dances, music,food and festivities and float parades in all the major towns. Held usually in February, the Carnival exudes the spirit of joie de vivre, with tourists and locals dancing in the streets. The mixed culture of Goa is manifest in other festivals too. The dance forms like Kunbi & Mando are vivid examples of this fusion of Oriental and Western cultures-with predominantly western music and oriental movements.

Wine & Dine In Goan Style
Mouth watering Goan dishes to suit every palate-from Chicken Xacuti and Pork Sorpatel to Prawn Balchao- are a must of every visitor's itinerary. Apart from the ubiquitous sea food, Goa offers some of the very best of Chinese, Punjabi, Continental, South Indian, and course, Portuguese restaurants. Cashew feni and Coconut Palm feni complete the heady experience of dining in Goa. Appreciated the world over, drinking Feni is a singularly Goan experience. It is potent, has a very distinctive aroma, and is an experience not to be missed.

RAJASTHAN VACATIONS

The Land of Romance and Chivalery

The magical land set amidst the desolate desert beauty. The land synonymous with romance and chivalry. Immensely rich in culture, history and natural beauty. That's is Rajasthan. Always temming with colour, joy, and friendliness that's unique to this part of the country. Everything about Rajasthan fascinates - from miles of golden stretches of sand to the kaleidoscope of magnificent forts, opulent palaces and marvellous havellis , each a splendid architectural creation having a legend of its own. The beautiful laid out gardens and lakes contrasting perfectly with the hilly ranges are a sight to the gladden eyes.

Rajasthan is a land where the vagaries of nature have settled to co-exist with the good cheer of its people. The architectural grandeur of royalty and the tales of valour and chivalry are the essence of its very spirit. The mountainous Aravalis and Vindhyas on the one hand and the desert landscape on the other form a contrast which blends perfectly with the history of Rajasthan.

Rajasthan is a destination that enchants the visitor with every little discovery that is made, because the more one discovers, the more is the urge is to stay on or come back.

Fairs and Festivals

The Spirit of Celebration
The Rajashthani's love for colour and joyous celebrations is proved by the elaborate rituals and the gay abandon with which he surrenders himself to the numerous fairs and festivals of the region. In addition to the festivals celebrated by the Hindus, Muslims and others, there are also the traditional fairs.

There are animal fairs, there are religious fairs and there are fairs to mark the changing seasons. In fact, celebrations occur almost round the year and are a splendid opportunity for the visitor to gain an insight into the life of the Rajasthan. Other than the traditional fairs, recently established festivals that involve elephants, camel races, dance and music have been specially organized for the tourists. Among the better known fairs of Rajasthan are :Nagaur fair, Desert Festival, Gangaur, Summer Festival, Nagaur fair and lot more.

Architecture Heritage

Forts and Palaces of Rajasthan
What is there in Rajasthan if not its forts and palaces that together give the image that Rajasthan is famous for. Built over the hilltops, in the middle of enormous deserts and inside the wild world, these forts and palaces also showcases close association between the men and their close possessions. Surprises are the second name of these architectural marvels spread throughout the land of Rajasthan.

Make sure while you are a journey to the eternal land of Rajasthan to stay in any of these forts and palaces, as many of these places are again regaining their past glory. Popularly known as the Heritage Hotels, these places are the blend of royal past and modern world. The most popular of these forts are Amber palace, City palace - Jaipur, City palace - Udaipur, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Mehrangarh fort, Chittaurgarh fort, Junagarh, Kotah fort, Kumbhalgarh fort.

Art and Culture
In Rajasthan, the spectacular is commonplace. Many civilizations forged by waves of settlers ranging from ancient Indus Valley urbanites to pastoral Aryan herdsmen that have all shaped this region called the land of kings. Colorful costumes, festivals and customs relieve the tedium of coping with a harsh, demanding land. Discover it all in the fairs and festivals like Pushkar and Desert Festival.

Dances and Music
The desert landscape of Rajasthan certainly does not inspire colorful and lively images. But it is because of the sheer festive spirit of the people, imagination of a colorless and dull lifestyle is often proved wrong. Yes! The Thar, and with it, all of Rajasthan, is known as the most colorful desert in the world. Fairs & Festivals, lilting music, lively dances and the dazzling attire of the people punctuate its barrenness, turning the land into a fertile basin of color and creativity.

Encompassing the spirit of the Thar Desert, Rajasthan has been a haven of various folk art forms. Vibrant, vigorous and graceful, the dances of Rajasthan evoke the desert in all its moods. The dances, found in limitless variations in Rajasthan, punctuate its barrenness, turning the land into a fertile basin of color and creativity and are an expression of human emotion as much as the folk music. Rajasthan popular dance include Bhavi, Chari, Gair, Ghoomar, Kalbeliyas, Kathputli and Terathtalli.



Monday, August 20, 2007

VACATION IDEAS

RAJASTHAN VACATIONS
The magical land set amidst the desolate desert beauty. The land synonymous with romance and chivalry

AGRA VACATIONS
There are very few cities in the world that can match the history and heritage of Agra - the city of Taj Mahal

HIMALAYA VACATIONS
Himalayas - undoubtedly one of the most spectacular and impressive range in the world

TAJ MAHAL
There is no other monument in the world, which can match the beauty and grandeur of the Taj Mahal.

GOA VACATIONS
Goa is endowed with a coastline that stretches to almost 100km. Pristine, palm fronted beaches entice tourists with their inviting azure waters.

JAIPUR VACATIONS
A twinkling fairy tale Pink City in Stone, chiselled out of the desert, reflecting a spur of colour, pulsating bustle and charm of the Old World.

KHAJURAHO
The temples of Khajuraho are undoubtedly masterpieces and a great work of art. But they are not the only attractions around Khajuraho.

KERALA VACATIONS
This small state in the southern tip of the Indian peninsula is an easy winner owning to its great mind-blowing landscape.

UDAIPUR VACATIONS
The city of dawn, Udaipur is a lovely land around the azure water lakes, hemmed in by the lush hills of the Aravalis.

VARANASI VACATIONS
Varanasi, also known as Benaras or Kashi, the "City of Light," is the oldest living city in the world.

DELHI VACATIONS
Sprawling on the banks of the river Yamuna, Delhi, the capital of India, typifies the soul of the country.

JAISALMER VACATIONS
Rising from the heart of the Thar desert like a golden mirage is the city of Jaisalmer.

MUMBAI VACATIONS
Travel to the historical city of Mumbai, a perfect destination in India for the pleasure loving tourists.

HYDERABAD VACATIONS
Travel to one of the most magnificient places in India and d iscover a beauty and warmth that reaches straight to the heart.

CHENNAI VACATIONS
Travel to the enchanting city of Chennai and enjoy a walk on the breathtakingly beautiful Marina beach, visit some of the most amazing creations of man.

BANGALORE VACATIONS
Travel to the beautiful city of Bangalore to explore its historical legacy and modern developments and understand what makes Bangalore what it is today.

LADAKH VACATIONS
Travel to the remote and high places in Ladakh and spend your holidays amidst the natural surroundings, the one you had never come across before.

KASHMIR VACATIONS
Take a trip to Kashmir, the ‘Paradise on earth’ and enjoy a beauty you have never seen before. A memory for lifetime.

SIKKIM VACATIONS
Travel to the Sikkim to explore the mystical beauty of its landscape and distinctly different lifestyle of the people. The place will leave you spellbound.

KOLKATA VACATIONS
Travel to one of the most magnificient places in India and d iscover a beauty and warmth that reaches straight to the heart.



VACATIONS IN INDIA

India is country with whole lot new feat and adventure to offer. Spend your vacations in India and explore the fascinating dimension encompassed by the exotic state. Retreat your eyes and senses with the enchanting splendor of the state on your vacations in India. Bet on the fact that you will not be dissapointed on your Indian vacations. Entice yourself on your Indian Vacations and make your travel to India a worthwhile experience.