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Main Sights in India
Pilgrimage Sites in India
India is a place of mixed cultures, ethnicity and religions. In fact Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism have their roots here. A tour to India is generally undertaken for its cultural inclinations; but the religious facet of the nation no less excites people all over the world. Some of the prime pilgrimage destinations of India are as follows:
Vaishno Devi
Located in a cave in the upper Trikuta Mountains in Jammu-Kashmir, it is associated with goddess Mahalakshmi. Vaishno Devi occupies a crucial place among all the pilgrimage places of India and is most popular for the holy shrine of Vaishno Devi which is located here. It is a highly revered shrine located at a height of more than five thousand feet in the Trikuta Hills of the Shivalik Range. Vaishno Devi is also known as Mata Rani and Vaishnavi and is the second most visited one after the Tirupati Balaji temple of Andhra Pradesh. A large number of devout pilgrims drop in to this holy temple to seek the blessings of the goddess and include newlyweds, vacationers and family holidaymakers.
The temple dedicated to the goddess is the main tourist attraction in Vaishno Devi and is at a distance of thirteen kilometers from Katra. The pilgrims pay a visit to this shrine which is in a hundred feet long cave with a narrow opening. A subtle presence of spirituality infuses even the most reluctant tourist with zest as he embarks on the difficult journey to catch a glimpse of the deity. The tourism in Vaishno Devi is gaining immense popularity due to the presence of this holy shrine and its picturesque and serene locale.
Tirupati Balaji
Set on a hill at Tirumala, a group of seven hills known as Seshachalam in south India, with an elevation of 2,800ft above the sea level, it is one of the richest temples in the world. Among all the pilgrimage destinations of south India, Tirupati-Balaji has an inimitable position and is recognized for the much popular Lord Venkateshwara deity, which is visited by numerous tourists all the year round. The meaning of the name Tirupati-Balaji is ‘lord of Lakshmi’. The renowned shrine of the deity is located on a hill at Tirumala, which is a cluster of seven hills. When you travel to Tirupati-Balaji, you must pay a visit to this temple, which is one of the lively cultural and philanthropic institutions with an impressive history. The Dravidian architecture depicted through this shrine will take you back to the ancient times.
There are numerous places to see in Tirupati-Balaji and the Lord Venkateshwara temple is the best known among these. This temple is a Mecca for the Hindu pilgrims and devotees line up in long serpentine queues to offer prayers and offerings to the deity. The other leading places of tourist interest you will come across here are Sri Govindrajaswamy Temple, Sri Kapileswaraswami Temple, Sri Kodandaramaswami Temple and Sri Kalyana Venkateswaraswami Temple. Due to the presence of these hallowed shrines at this picture perfect town, tourism in Tirupati-Balaji is increasingly growing in popularity.
Apart from these attractions, further excitement awaits you when you embark on the weekend excursions. On a fine day, you can set out for a journey that will take you to the interesting sites such as Chandragiri, Sri Kalahasthi, Agastyaswamy Temple, Kalyani Dam, Horsley Hills and Kailasakona Waterfalls. The fun and excitement get enriched when your tour covers the festive seasons. The entire town pulsates with a festive spirit. Brahmotsavam is the most prominent among the festivals here. The temple car festival is also marked with great excitement and enthusiasm.
Golden Temple
Situated in Amritsar, Punjab, the Golden Temple or Darbar Sahib, it is steeped in the history and ideology of Sikhism. Located in the heart of the city of Amritsar, the 40.5 square feet Golden Temple stands on a 67 square feet platform amid a square tank. There is a bridge leading to the Golden Temple. The shrine is representative of the tenets of Sikhism. It also stands for the valor and vigor of the Sikhs. With doorways on all four sides, it symbolizes the tolerance of Sikhism – greeting all four religions with open arms. On your tour to India you will thoroughly like your visit to the Golden Temple in the city of Amritsar as it offers itself as a religious as well as architectural genius. One of the several tourist attractions in Amritsar, the Golden Temple was constructed by Guru Ram Das in the 14th century. It stands as one of the favorite tourist destinations in India.
Also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib as well as Darbar Sahib, it is considered to be one of the most sacred sites of Sikh religion. Reflecting both Hindu and Muslim styles of design and architecture, it exhibits a large dome made of gold. Its structural brilliance draws the interest of one and all around the world. Even though, chiefly a sacred pilgrimage for the Sikhs, it is also traveled by travelers from various corners of the world. This temple arranges for Bundara (Lunch/Dinner) all through the year for the tourists.
Hemkund Sahib
World’s highest shrine, it lies at an altitude of 4329 meters. It is one of the most sacred destinations of the Sikhs. The high altitude Lokpal lake, known as Hemkund ( 4329 mts.) lies in heavenly environs. A steep trek from Ghangharia leads one to this spot in about four to six hours. It is an important pilgrimage for both Hindus and Sikhs, as well as for people from other faiths. There is a Sikh Gurudwara and a Lakshman temple built on the bank of the lake. Encircled by seven snow clad peaks and their associated glaciers, it reflects its surroundings enchantingly on its crystal clear serene waters. The glaciers from Hathi Parvat and Saptrishi peaks feed the lake and a small stream called Himganga flows out of this lake. As alluded to, in the holy Granth Sahib, Guru Govind Singh, the tenth Guru of the Sikh faith had meditated on the bank of this lake in one of his earlier births. It is widely believed among Sikhs that Guru Govind Singh introduced the features now universally associated with Sikhism. On 15th April 1699, he started the new brotherhood called the Khalsa meaning the pure, from the Persian word 'Khales') an inner core of the faithful, accepted by baptism (amrit).
Bodhgaya
Most significant of all the Buddhist pilgrimage destinations in India, it is a significant archaeological site, and a vital Buddhist centre. Located in the Indian state of Bihar, Bodhgaya is a magnificent tourist destination as well as an important pilgrim points for the Buddhists. It earns much of its claim to fame from the fact that Buddha attained enlightenment here. For the Buddhists, it is an important religious site and every year is visited by a large number of devotees. The main attraction of this town is Mahabodhi temple which is positioned near the spot where Lord Buddha attained spiritual enlightenment. Bodhgaya is not only an important Buddhist pilgrim center, but it is also an important center for the study of Buddhism. Hence, Bodhgaya is one of the most inescapable tourist destinations and occupies an important place for the Buddhists.
The major tourist attractions of Bodhgaya are the various Buddhist monasteries and Mahabodhi Tree. The Mahabodhi complex is the place where Buddha meditated and attained Nirvana under the famous Bodhi Tree. The solitude and peace seekers are surely going to find Bodhgaya a magnificent tourist destination that is away from the din and rush of the town and you will get the desired level of peace and joy during your Bodhgaya tour. Bodhgaya is also declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and the number of tourists visiting this religious place is increasing day by day. Hence, there are also several accommodations in Bodhgaya that are known for their utmost hospitality and warmth in services. Bodhgaya can be reached by air; rail and road transport quite easily as there is an international airport in Bodhgaya that provides services to the various domestic and international flights. The road network in Bodhgaya is also equally good and the major cities in and around Bodhgaya are connected by the road transport system. The facility of railways is also available as the huge numbers of pilgrims and tourists drop in to this town for the tour.
Rishikesh
Located barely 24 km from Haridwar at the base of the lower Himalayas, it is a scenic and spiritual paradise with the Holy Ganga flowing through. Nestled picturesquely in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, Rishikesh is an important pilgrim destination of north India and is also popular as the “world capital of yoga”. This spiritual town has gained immense significance and occupies a permanent position in the itinerary of a globe trotter who is on his north India tour. It is the point from where the journey to the char dhams (four sacred spots) commences. This place is also an irresistible lure for the adventure seekers as it offers a number of adventure options such as trekking expeditions to the snow capped Himalayan peaks and water rafting. Travel to Rishikesh for an amazing experience involving religion, adventure, culture and ancient Yoga practices.
Rishikesh, being a center of religious importance has excellent network of transportation and you can reach here from the distant towns of India. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant in Dehradun and the carriers for the other destinations of India operate from here including New Delhi. You have to come down to Haridwar in order to reach Rishikesh from where other rail connections are also available. Rishikesh is well linked by road with the capital city Delhi and which is further connected by the national highways to other destinations of India.
Haridwar
Set along the right side of the bank of the holy Ganga, it is associated with both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, and is one of the four venues for the famous Kumbh Mela. Haridwar, literally Gateway to God, is one of the Hindu holy places in India and a center of Hindu religion and mysticism for centuries. Located on the banks of River Ganges (Ganga), at the point where the Ganges descends from the hills to the North Indian plains, Haridwar attracts a large number of Hindu pilgrims from all over the world. Haridwar is the site of many religious festivals. Most notably, once every twelve years it is the venue for the Kumbh Mela, humanity's largest festival, which drew a record 70 million in 2003. (The festival rotates between Haridwar and Allahabad, Ujjain and Nashik.) The Ardh Mela, or "half mela", is held every six years. Both will be held in Haridwar for the next time in 2010. Other yearly festivals include:
Baisakhi, April.
Kanwar Mela, July. The largest yearly festival, drawing up to 300,000 visitors.
Somwati Amavasya, July. Almost as large as the Kanwar Mela.
Kartik Purnima, held 15 days after Diwali on the first night of the full moon in November.
Varanasi
One of the oldest living cities in the world, it is one of the prime India pilgrimage destinations. Varanasi, also popularly known as Benares and Kashi, is one of the world’s oldest living cities situated on the banks of the holy River Ganges in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Steeped in tradition and mythological legacy, this City of Lord Shiva is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations for not only Hindus, but Buddhists and Jains as well.
Believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, who stood upon this land at the beginning of time, Varanasi is “older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend” as Mark Twain had rightly put it. Since time immemorial, Varanasi has attracted hordes of pilgrims and devotees from all corners of the world, who come here to explore the religious places and other tourist attractions in Varanasi. To be in Varanasi is an experience of a lifetime, a self–discovery of its own kind, whereby you’ll experience an eternal oneness of the body and soul.
Varanasi can be easily accessed by the major modes of transport, that is, air, rail and road. Several domestic flights ply daily to Varanasi from various cities in India. Being located in the heartland of the North Indian plains, Varanasi is also decently connected by rail to major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and others. An excellent network of roadways facilitates road transportation from Varanasi to all the major towns of Uttar Pradesh and surrounding areas.
Kanyakumari
Lying at the junction of the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal it is associated with goddess Devi Kanya, an incarnation of Shiva’s wife. Kanyakumari is said to be the southernmost point of the Indian peninsula and is an inescapable tourist destination of south India for the tourists. With its clear beaches and vast stretches of sands,it remains one of the most favored tourist spots for the visitors. It is also a popular temple town as it features some of the finest temples found in the state. A tour to this place would result in a whole lot of fun and pleasure for the tourists.
Kanyakumari is located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu and you cannot afford to miss out the sunrise and sunset while you are here for your vacations. The most fascinating feature of this town is its multi-hued beaches. On your travel to Kanyakumari, you will come across the Kumari Amman Temple which is devoted to the goddess Parvathi. The renowned Vivekananda Rock Memorial is built in several architectural styles off the coast on rocks that project from the Indian Ocean.
Kanyakumari is home to lots of other tourist attractions including the Gandhi Memorial, Government Museum and Sripada Parai where the virgin goddess is believed to have set her foot. Lots of important landmarks are located close to the town and a day trip to those places would definitely make for a wonderful travel experience. Kanyakumari is also popular for its mouthwatering regional cuisine that is available in a large number of hotels and restaurants. There are many food and beverage outlets that are located near the important tourist attractions and you should not miss out the lip-smacking seafood which is served there. The affable people and their culture cast a spell on the tourist and they long to visit this place again and again. Kanyakumari is well-connected by air, rail and road transport. The nearest airport is Chennai and Thruvananthapuram which is located in the neighboring state—Kerala. Vacations in Kanyakumari are incomplete without shopping; various articles that are sold here include Handcrafted trinkets, seashell art and palm leaf drawings.
Madurai
Also called the Meenakshi Temple, it is located along river Vaigai. Believed to have been set up by the Pandyan King, Kulasekara in the 6th century BC, it is also referred to as the Athens of the East. Madurai, in Tamil Nadu is one of the most ancient cities of India that dates back to the Sangam period long before the Christian era. Madurai boasts of a rich past during which it was the center of Tamil literature and many masterpieces were produced during those days. Madurai is also home to a large number of temples that reflect the refined architectural works of yore. There are numerous tourist attractions in Madurai that will fill your trip to Madurai with joy and excitement.
The most renowned landmark of this town is Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple which has architecture par excellence. You will also find concentric rectangular streets surrounding the temple and symbolize the structure of the cosmos. Lots of devout pilgrims drop in to this place for worshipping the immensely revered idol.
On a city tour of Madurai, you will also come across the Thirumalai Nayak Palace that was built by a king in the year 1636 with the assistance of an Italian architect. The intricate art work and stunning interior decorations of this palace are worth taking a look on a travel to Madurai. There is no dearth of the lodging options that are available in Madurai and you can find varied classes of hotels here. Some of the famous hotels in this town that are ideal for the accommodation purpose include the Taj Garden Retreat, Madurai Ashok and Madurai Park Inn. These hotels offer great value for money and promise a gratifying stay. Madurai is easily accessible by the air, rail and road network. There is an airport in Madurai that connects the city Chennai and Mumbai by regular flights. Cities like Coimbatore, Chennai, Rameswaram and Kanyakumari are well-connected by the rail network. The road transport is equally good and the nearby destinations of Tamil Nadu and other south Indian states can be conveniently accessed by well maintained roads.
Mathura
Set along the right banks of the Yamuna this town has a continuous line of ghats (riverbanks) which is picturesque in itself. Mathura City in Uttar Pradesh is a place greatly revered by the Hindu pilgrims and it is an indispensable stopover on the itinerary of a tourist who is on his Uttar Pradesh tour. Mathura is most reputed as the birthplace of Lord Krishna and is also called as the Krishnajanmabhoomi. Mathura is a wonderful place for exploring the mythological associations the city has, especially with the events related in the Mahabharata. One of the most important tourist attractions in Mathura is the Krishna Janambhoomi temple. Located in the heart of the city, it is believed to have been built on the place where Lord Krishna was born. There is a stone slab marking the exact site of his birth which fascinates the believers.
The Dwarkadhish temple is another attraction in this temple town that should not be missed out by the tourists. The temple is located on the way to Yamuna and is highly venerated by the Hindu pilgrims. Mathura city in Uttar Pradesh is also famous for the production of the images of Buddha and they would also make for some of the best buys for the souvenir hunters.
Mathura is a growing tourist hub and hence it offers to its tourist’s fine lodging options. The city has three star hotels such as Best Western Radha Ashok and Hotel Sheetal Regency. You will also find Economy Hotels such as Hotel Mukund Palace and Hotel Surya International. There are also budget hotels such as Dwaper Resorts and Hotel Kaveri. Mathura has a good transportation network and it can be reached from all corners of India. The nearest airport is Kheria in Agra which connects the cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore and Ahmedabad. The rail transport is equally good and the cities of Delhi, Agra, Mumbai, Jaipur, Gwalior, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chennai and Lucknow are connected by the super-fast and express train network.
Hampi
One of the earliest Hindu pilgrimage destinations of India, Hampi has many temples, flaunting Hindu style of architecture. Located on the banks of Tungabhadra River about 350 kilometers north of Bangalore and 13 km from Hospet, the village of Hampi in North Karnataka alludes to tremendous historical importance. Sprawled over more than 25 square kilometers, Hampi, the erstwhile major trading center is home to giant temples, market streets, palaces, and aquatic structures, forts and a plethora of other ancient monuments.
The 15th-century Virupaksha Temple rises majestically to the western end of the famous 35 yards wide and nearly 800 yards long Hampi Bazaar area. The temple has a 120 feet tall tower at its eastern entrance. The temple houses the shrines of Shiva, Pampa and Bhuvaneswari. Located 3 kms down the road, the temple of Malyavanta Raghunathaswamy is constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture. Strange motifs of fish and marine monsters engraved along its outer walls deserve appreciation.
The Vithala Temple Complex with its 56 musical pillars is one of the most splendid monuments and one of the finest tourist attractions in Hampi. To the east of the hall is located the famous Stone Chariot with stone wheels that actually move. Facing the shrine stands the great mandapa on a richly sculpted basement. Its roof is pillared with granite, around 15 feet in height, each again consisting of a central pillar enclosed by detached shafts, all cut from one single block of rock. House of Victory was built to commemorate the victory of Krishnadeva Raya against the King of Orissa. The internal spaces between the rows of the plinth-moldings here are most intricately carved. Westwards from the House of Victory, guiding through two ruined gates, the way leads to the Hazara Ramaswami temple which is believed to have been the private place of worship of a royal family. The chief attraction of the temple is the sequence of scenes from the Ramayana engraved on two of the inner walls of the mantapa.
The King’s Balance is where kings were weighed against gold, grain, or money which was later distributed amongst the poor. The Queen’s Bath used to be a swimming pool, 50 feet long and 6 feet deep, flaunting arched corridors, balconies and lotus-shaped fountains of perfumed water. Sculpted in the shape of a lotus flower, the two-story structure of the Lotus Mahal with beautiful archways set in geometric pattern was an air-cooled summer palace of the queen. The Elephant Stables is a beautiful example of the blend of Hindu and Muslim style of architecture, and was home to around 11 elephants in separate sections. Familiar as we are with the glory of Hampi through the leaves of history, it highlights the ruins of the Vijaynagar kingdom of the late fourteenth century. Accordingly, the city has been drawing several tourists for a long time now. Hampi has numerous temples, monolithic structures, figures and monuments – all exhibiting rich Hindu architectural culture. The Vittal temple, Virupaksha temple, and Kodandarama temple are examples of the same. Owing to the later influence of the Muslims in the mid 16th century, have come up the Lotus Mahal and Queen’s Bath which show signs of Muslim culture during that era.
Shirdi
This sacred site of Sai Baba is located 260 kms from Mumbai, 130 kms from Aurangabad. Shirdi is a small holy town located near the city of Nasik in the state of Maharashtra. The lure of this town is so intense that even the most demanding visitor will be impressed by its irresistible appeal. Shirdi is a must visit for the religious tourists since it was the abode of noted Saint Sai Baba, who used to reside here. A huge number of pious devotees flock in to Shirdi to seek the blessings of Sai Baba, believed to cure incurable diseases. A strange mystic aura seems to exude from here that is simply enchanting and thus tourism in Shirdi has also experienced considerable growth. This charming town is dotted with many religious sites that are visited by many tourists no matter to which religion they belong to. The most prominent among the tourist attractions in Shirdi is the Sai Baba mandir (temple) and his samadhi (memorial).
The other highlights of this town include Dwarkamai (mosque), Gurusthan, Chavadi, Lendi Baug, Maruti Mandir, Chawadi and Samadhi of Abdulbaba. Apart from all these, there are also many other places of religious importance that you must pay a visit to during your travel to Shirdi. All these places hold immense importance for the pilgrims and are highly revered. The degree of joy and excitement gets doubled when your vacations coincide with the important events and festivals of this place. Some of the noted festivals of Shirdi are Guru Poornima, Dussehra, and Ram Navami. The ambiance during the festivals is simply mesmerizing and will fill you with fervor. For a gratifying vacation, accommodation plays a key role and Shirdi offers a number of accommodation options for the tourists that include a five star hotel called Sun n Sand Hotel and several other hotels that include Shraddha Park Inn, Hotel Sai Leela, Sai Baba International and Hotel Sai Mahal. These hotels would make for wonderful retreats for spending vacations as they provide a wide range of professional facilities and personalized services.
The transportation system in Shirdi is quite good and the tourists can reach there by the air, rail and road transport as well. The major nearby airports are located in Mumbai, Pune and Aurangabad from where one can easily reach there by road. The rail network is equally good and one can come down to Kopargaon, which is the nearest railhead connecting the other destinations. The state transport corporation and private operators run frequent bus services from the nearby destinations of Shirdi thus making road transport to Shirdi quite convenient.
Puri
Set along the Bay of Bengal, Puri offers the great temple of Lord Jagannath for several Hindu pilgrims. Puri is well-connected by air, rail and road transport and is accessible from the distant corners of India with ease. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik airport which is located in Bhubaneshwar and the town has its railway station that links the major towns of India. Road transport is equally good and can be used to travel from the neighboring states.
Puri is an ideal tourist destination if you want a break from the usual chores of the city life and spend some moments in peace and seclusion exploring the exquisiteness and religious flavor of Orissa. Puri is home to some of the most stunning attractions in the state of Orissa and the tourists can look forward to a vacation that will not only be a feast to the eyes but a highly educative and enjoyable one. Puri is a haven of exquisite temples, fantastic monuments, alluring beaches and natural landscape. It is located in the eastern Indian state of Orissa along the coastline of Bay of Bengal and is popular for its beaches and an excellent point for viewing sunset. It is one of the most important places of tourist interest in the entire state of Orissa and attracts scores of tourists all the year round. There are many things to watch in Puri which would make your tour to Puri an unforgettable experience. Jagannath Temple is unquestionably one of the most visited tourist attractions in Puri and is highly venerated by the locals. The temple dates back to the 12th century and is an architectural wonder. Lying along the coat of Bay of Bengal, there are many beaches that are located here but the beach by the name Puri is the most sought-after one.
Pushkar
Pushkar is famous for its biggest cattle fair which falls in the month of Kartik. It commences two days before the full moon of the month and ends a day after it. Men and women congregate from all over Rajasthan and other nearby places with their horses, camels and cattle to buy and sell. In addition to its commercial importance, the fair is also a window to the cultural richness of Rajasthan. Days before it begins, tradesmen, craftsmen, troupes of dancers and singers, all gather here. Pushkar is also a sacred town for the Hindus, situated 11 km to the North-West of Ajmer. The charm of this sleepy, lakeside settlement so captivated the great Indian poet, Kalidas,that it found a place in his classic, Abhigyan Sakuntalam. The Great Hindu epics of Mahabharat and Ramayana make references to this religious place regarded to be Adi Tiratha. Evidence points to its having existed during the fourth century B.C. lake in the inhospitable surroundings of a desert is no less than a miracle. Pushkar boasts temples, though few are as ancient as you might expect at such an Sarovar and city wiew from top important pilgrimage site, since many were destroyed by Aurangzeb, a Mogul ruler and subsequently rebuilt. The most famous is the Brahma Temple, said to be the only temple in the world dedicated to this deity. It stands on a high plinth with the Marble steps leading up to it. A silver turtle is set on the floor facing the Sanctum-Sanctorum or Girbha-griha. Around the turtle the Marble floor is inset with hundreds of silver coins. Coins engraved with donors names are also embedded in the walls. Peacocks adorn the temple walls as they are supposed to be the vehicle of lord Brahma's consort Saraswati. A small image of the milkmaid Gayatri, flanks the four-faced image of lord Brahma and is called Chaumurti The sanctuary has silver doors inside a carved marble gateway.
Puttaparthi
Birthplace of Sri Satya Sai Baba, it is one of the religious destinations on your India tour. Located in the south-western part of Andhra Pradesh, Puttaparthi is surrounded by the arid and rocky hills bordering Karnataka. Famous for its Sathya Sai Baba Mandir, it is one of the famous religious tourist destinations of the world. A number of domestic as well as foreign tourists visit this place every year just to have a glimpse of the legendary Sathya Sai Baba and also to see his most talked about ashram. It is believed that the present Sai Baba is the Sai Baba Aashram reincarnation of the former Sai Baba of Maharashtra popularly known as Sai Baba of Shirdi. The income of the ashram has been used for the establishment of a number of public utility services. Although there is not much to see in Puttaparthi, the ashram itself keeps the attention of the visitor with its varied attractions. Puttaparthi belongs to the Bangalore Circuit of South India. The other destinations that come under the circuit are Bangalore, Kolar, and Nellur. Being at Puttaparthi, the best thing one can do is to visit the ashram and pay reverence to Sai Baba. The nearby areas like Lepakshi are also worth visiting.
The Sai baba ashram itself is a huge complex with room for thousands, with canteens, shops, a museum and library, and a vast assembly hall where Sai Baba gives darshan twice daily (6.45-7.00 AM and 3.45-4.00 PM). Queues start more than an hour before the appointed time, and a lottery decides who gets to sit near the front.
On the way between Bangalore and Puttaparthi, one can find the Veerbhadra temple at Lepakshi. At the entrance of the town, there is a huge, monolithic Nandi, the sacred bull of Lord Shiva. The temple is about 500 meters away. On November 23, the birthday of Sai Baba is celebrated in the ashram. On this day Sai Baba delivers a message to his devotees. The devotees of Sai Baba regard this day as a holy day.
Ranakpur
One of the five most significant pilgrimage sites of Jainism, it is located about 60 km north of Udaipur in Pali district. Jain Temple Ranakpur is a picturesque village located in the Pali district of Rajasthan and is one of the most important pilgrim sites recognized for its magnificent temples. It is nested in a valley on the western side of the Aravalli Range and lies between the Jodhpur and Udaipur. Ranakpur has carved a niche among the other places of tourist interest and is now one of the most visited ones in the entire state of Rajasthan. Make your tour to Ranakpur an amazing experience since it has exquisite Jain temples that are known for their marvelous architecture. The Jain temples are some of the leading tourist attractions in Ranakpur. The temples are acknowledged for their outstanding beauty and remain the most visited ones among the various pilgrim sites in Rajasthan. The chief temple is the Chaumukha temple (four-faced temple) and it is dedicated to Adinath, who was the first Jain tirthankar ( Jain Spiritual head ). You will also come across the other Jain temples that are located within the complex including the Sun temple and Amba temple that are equally popular for their brilliant architecture. Lots of pilgrims drop in every day at these temples for offering prayers.
Ranakpur, in Rajasthan can best be visited from October to March due to pleasant climatic conditions. For the numerous tourists dropping in to Ranakpur, there are several lodging options available here in heritage, deluxe heritage and budget categories. There is a heritage hotel, Maharani Bagh Orchard Retreat and deluxe heritage hotel, Hotel Fateh Bagh where you can put up. There also the budget hotels among which Hotel Shilpi and Shivika Lake Hotel are notable.If you want to reach Ranakpur, then you have to come down to Udaipur from where you can easily access Ranakpur. Udaipur is conveniently accessible by air, rail and road transport from the distant corners of India.
Churches of Goa
Owing their roots mostly to early Portuguese settlers, Goan churches are fine examples of late 16th and early 17th century art and architecture. Basilica of Bom Jesus and Goa Se Cathedral are the most prominent among them. Many buildings in Goa are reminders of the Portuguese who ruled over this small state in India, even after the rest of India achieved independence from the British. The churches of Goa are among the most obvious signs of Portuguese presence in Goa. These churches are the center of tourism in Goa as they attract a large number of tourists each year. The white structures of these churches are an integral part of the landscape of Goa. Some of these churches can be counted among the top tourist attractions in Goa, as they house important relics or documents related to the history of the state.
Famous churches of Goa:
Basilica of Bom Jesus:
This is undoubtedly the most famous among the churches of Goa. This church contains the mortal remains of Saint Francis Xavier. The remains are brought out for public viewing every ten years and this occasion attracts numerous pilgrims from all over the world. The sacred body is believed to be devoid of decay even after more than four centuries. It is believed that the saint has been protecting the people from various calamities for centuries. The church was built in 1605 and has been declared a World Heritage site.
S E Cathedral:
This cathedral is famous for the cross of Miracles which is believed to be growing in size. The cathedral is dedicated to the memory of Saint Catherine. The martyrdom of the saint is depicted in the central altars that are heavily gilded. The building is enormous in proportions and built in Tuscan style.
Convent and Church of St. Francis of Assisi:
This church is a remarkably beautiful structure and one of the important places to visit in Goa. The interior is superbly decorated with paintwork and woodcarving. The tombstones are elaborately engraved with themes form the life of St. Francis. The convent houses the archaeological museum which exhibits many items related to the tribal past of Goa among other artifacts.
Church & Convent of St. Monica:
This church used to enjoy royal patronage and was called the Royal monastery on that account. The large three storied structure was completed in 1627. Laterite is the main building material. Since 1964, the building has also been used by the Mater dei Institute as a nunnery.
The Church of Mae de Deus:
This beautiful Gothic structure is set among scenic surroundings. The chief attraction of this church is the shrine of the Mae de Deus or Mother of God, which was brought from the ruins at Old Goa. The Church of St. Cajatan, Church of Our Lady of Rosary, Reis Magos Church, Church of St. Alex and the Rachol Seminary are some of the other important churches of Goa.
Heritage Destinations in India
Taj Mahal
The construction of this marble masterpiece is credited to the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan who erected this mausoleum in memory of his beloved wife, Arjumand Bano Begum, popularly known as Mumtaz Mahal, who died in AH 1040 (AD 1630). Her last wish to her husband was "to build a tomb in her memory such as the world had never seen before".
The designer of Taj Mahal was Ustad Ahmad Lahauri. The material was brought in from all over India and central Asia and it took a fleet of 1000 elephants to transport it to the site. The central dome is 187 feet high at the centre. Red sandstone was brought from Fatehpur Sikri, Jasper from Punjab, Jade and Crystal from China, Turquoise from Tibet, Lapis Lazuli and Sapphire from Sri Lanka, Coal and Cornelian from Arabia and diamonds from Panna.
The immortal monument of love, Taj Mahal is one of the most visited medieval buildings of the world. Such is the importance of this eternal monument that it has almost become a symbol of India. Most foreigners who visit India are lured by the Taj and it is one of the first things that they want to visit in the country. The Taj Mahal tours take tourists on the fascinating journeys of the city of Agra and its surrounding locates, all of which still smell of history. With the numerous historic monuments that a tour of Agra promises, the erstwhile capital of the mighty Mughuls is one of the highlights of tourism in North India.
Besides the above, the Taj Mahal tours also cover some other monuments which have been outfamed by the Taj and the imposing Agra fort. These include the tomb of Nurjahan’s father, given the title Itmad-ud-daulat, Chini ka Rauza, which is a tomb of one of Shahjahan’s ministers, and is known for its brilliant glazed tiles. The city also has a few beautifully laid out gardens, whose origins date back to the times of Babur, the founder of the Mughul dynasty. The tomb of Akbar at Sikandara is located about 5 kms from Agra and is among the city’s major attractions.
Last but not the least, the Taj Mahal tours let you visit the nooks and corners of the city that are still deep rooted in its history. The bazaars, the handicrafts, the fabrics, and even the sights and sounds, all make up the city of Agra.
Nalanda
Nalanda Located in the state of Bihar in the eastern region of India, Nalanda is famous as the location of the oldest university of the world. During its heydays, it was known as one of the most important seats of learning in the world. The university was also an important center of Buddhist studies, and used to attract a large number of students from far off places like China, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and other countries where Buddhism had made an impact. At present only a small section of the once sprawling complex lies in ruins near Bada Gaon, a small village about 55 miles south east of Patna. It is an important part of Tourism in Bihar, as several tourists, especially from the countries where Buddhism has thrived, visit this spot.
The tours of Nalanda take tourists to the ruins that are the only remaining evidence of the past glory of this ancient residential university. These ruins are among the most renowned tourist attractions in Bihar, and are important to the Buddhist tourists from China, Korea, and other countries along with the other major Buddhist sites in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh like Budh Gaya, Sarnath and Kushinagar. A glimpse of the ruins takes one back to the ancient times when this complex used to bustle with activity. The halls would be filled by students and the ceremonial chanting of monks would be heard from the temples. The desolate ruins would also make one empathize with the tragic end that this glorious institution had to face.
The Museum – among the important places in Nalanda, the Nalanda museum is the most notable. The museum houses relics from the last days of the university. Some beautiful bronze figures of Buddha are also exhibited here, apart from a fine collection of coins and pottery. The Nava Nalanda Mahavihar is also established at this site, and is devoted to the studies of Buddhism and Pali literature. There are some other tourist spots around Nalanda, including Surajpur and Rajgir, which should be covered by tourists during their tours of Nalanda.
Neemrana Fort
Neemrana town in Alwar, Rajasthan is quite ancient and is located on the Delhi-Jaipur highway. This magnificent town is located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan and commands scenic vistas of its rugged surroundings. Neemrana has got its name from a valiant local chieftain named Nimola Meo. He had to suffer defeat at the hands of the Chauhans and appealed that his name should be given to his lost kingdom. Neemrana is an ideal base to explore the surrounding destinations that have lots in store to offer to visitors.
A trip to Neemrana is incomplete without a visit to the Neemrana Fort, which is the most popular among the tourist attractions in Neemrana. Neemrana Fort is located on a high hillock and it commands magnificent views of the surrounding beauty. Nowadays, the Neemrana fort is a leading heritage resort and is an ideal venue for weddings and conferences. When you step inside this hotel, you will virtually get transported to an entirely different world. The ambiance is simply captivating and features period furniture, antique works of art and frescoed paintings.
As for the lodging, you can put up in the Neemrana Fort Palace or Hill Fort Resort that provide excellent accommodation options to the tourists. While staying in these hotels you can expect the utmost in terms of traditional hospitality and impressive services. The most modern range of facilities is extended to the guests thus making their stay an exclusive one. Neemrana is well-connected by air, rail and road transport. The nearest airport is New Delhi from where you can get flights for the other destinations of India and abroad easily. The rail and road transport from Delhi is equally good and you can avail any of two transport systems in order to reach here.
Devigarh Palace
Devigarh is a fort palace nested in the old Aravali Hills of Rajasthan. It is an 18th Century Fort in the village of Delwara. This Fort forms one of the three main passes into the valley of Udaipur. The city has a rich cultural heritage and offers abundant scope for sightseeing. The village of Delwara, which houses the Devigarh Fort takes pride in housing four 14th Century Jain temples. It is a 450 year old village and consists of Muslims, Jains, Rajput and tribal people. The village is a perfect place for enjoying vacation and attracts tourists from all over India and abroad by its scenic beauty. We at touristplaceinindia.com provide you with complete information on all that you want to know about the beautiful Fort Palace of Devigarh in the village of Delwara in Rajasthan. Devigarh has a good transportation network and is about 45 minutes drive from Udaipur. Udaipur has road, rail and air network with all major cities in India. Besides, the Fort Hotel at Devigarh provides accommodation at luxury. One can also choose from among the budget and economy accommodation at Udaipur, which is about 28 km from Devigarh. The attractions which attract tourist to Devigarh include:
Bapparawal: It is a small lake which is about 3 km from Devigarh Fort. One can visit this fort in a horse or a camel safari and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Aravalis which on the journey to Bapparawal.
Udaipur: This city is about 40 minutes drive from Devigarh Fort and is one of the most beautiful cities in India. Udaipur is a city of Palaces, gardens, and lakes. The two major attractions in the city are the Lake Palace and the City Palace.
Eklingji: It is a temple complex consisting of about 108 temples made of sandstone and marble and is only 5 km away from Devigarh.
Ranakpur: The city situated about 110 km from Devigarh has some of the beautiful Jain temples with exquisite carvings depicting the beauty of Indian craftsmanship.
Nathdwara: This site is just 24 km away from Devigarh and has a 18th Century Temple dedicated to Shti Nathji.
Nagda: This site near Devigarh has a cluster of temples with stone carvings. It is situated about 6 km from Devigarh has a beautiful lily pond, which add beauty to the place.
Fatehpur Sikri
The magnificent mughul capital at Fatehpur Sikri was built by the greatest of all mughuls, emperor Akbar. The complex is located near Agra city in Uttar Pradesh in India. The story goes that Akbar was blessed with a son, who was to become Emperor Jahangir in the coming years, after offering prayers to the revered Sufi saint Salim. He then shifted his capital to Fatehpur because he believed it to be lucky for him and his empire. The construction of the complex was started in 1571, but in 1584 it had to be abandoned, most probably due to shortage of water. Fatehpur Sikri is a World Heritage site, and is one of the most important tourist destinations in Uttar Pradesh. Tourism in Uttar Pradesh benefits immensely from Agra and Fatehpur Sikri as they are one of the most famous historical sites in India. The entire complex has been built with red sandstone, a typical material used in many of the mughul buildings. Marble has also been liberally used in the more elegant buildings inside the complex. The entire complex is very spacious and has an informal feel to it. The architecture is an interesting mix of Hindu and Jain traditions interspersed with Islamic features. The complex gives an impression that it was built more as a place of relaxation than a capital city. The prominent structures in the complex are –
The Agra Gate – this is the entrance to the gate. Facing Agra, this gate is typical of the gates in all mughul forts. Imposing yet intricate, this gate sets the tone as one enters the complex through it.
Naubatkhana – this was the drum house from where announcements were made upon important arrivals.
Diwan-i-am – this structure greets visitors once they enter the complex. This used to be the place of the daily durbar, or public audience. The seat of the emperor is enclosed in an elevated area. Beautiful gardens surround this structure.
Sikriff Diwan-i-khas – this spectacular structure, sometimes also called the jewel house, is the first thing that meets your eyes as you enter the inner complex. The highlight of this structure is the beautifully crafted red sandstone column topped by a throne and joined by ramps to the four corners.
Birbal’s House – the house of Birbal, the favorite minister of Akbar, is an interesting structure with horizontal sunshades depicting traditional contemporary styles.
Jodhabai’s Palace – Said to be the private quarters of the Hindu wife of the emperor, this is an entire complex in itself. The open courtyard leads to the inner chambers. The interesting features of this building are the concealed seats perched at a height to enable the women to observe the outer courtyard without being seen.
Pachisi Court – Pachisi is an ancient board game, very popular among the royalty of the medieval ages. This court is unique as it is said that people used to act as pawns and moved over the court following the players’ instructions.
Panch Mahal – this magnificent structure towers over the complex, and is one of the most beautiful mughul structures ever built. Opinions about the exact purpose of the building vary. The five stories go up in steps, the area decreasing with each step. A panoramic view of the entire complex can be seen from the top of the Panch Mahal.
Buland Darwaza- this gigantic doorway was built by Akbar as a memorial to the conquest of Gujarat. The door is decorated with intricately painted Quranic verses, and a large number of steps go down from it on the outside of the complex.
Salim Chisti’s Tomb – the tomb of the sufi saint Salim is a pious spot within the complex
Konark
Set along the Bay of Bengal, 65 km from Bhubaneswar, the small town of Konark in the state of Orissa has a significant history and adds a lot to the Indian cultural scene on the whole. Mostly famous for the Sun Temple, it sees the advent of several tourists and historians at various points of the year from various parts of the world. Located near the holy city of Puri and believed to have been built by Narashimhadev I in the mid-13th century, the temple is devoted to the Sun God or Surya and is an extraordinary work of art reflecting Orissa’s medieval architecture, designated as a (UNESCO) World Heritage Site by the United Nations.
Surya Temple of Konark The massive structure of the eminent temple of Konark, now largely dilapidated, has been structured in the shape of a chariot bearing the Sun God across the heavens. The huge intricately carved wheels of the chariot, around the base of the temple, are the key attractions of the temple. The spokes of these wheels act as sundials, and the shadows formed by these will give you the exact time of the day. The pyramidal roof of the temple, made of sandstone, rises up to 30 meters in height.
Like the temples at Khajuraho, the Sun Temple at Konark is full of erotic sculptures.
Apart from the above, there are other tourist attractions in Konark that will make your tour to Konark all the more exciting. Konark Archaeological Museum, Konark Beach, Ramachandi temple and Konark Math are amongst them. Situated on the northern part of the Sun temple, the museum preserves a large variety of antiques. The museum has four galleries that display nearly 260 antiquities, collected from the complex of Sun Temple.
Konark Beach, located at a distance of three km from the famous Sun Temple, is one of the most visited tourist attractions of Orissa. The amazing views of the lovely sunset and sunrise are extraordinarily enchanting. Positioned towards the southwestern part of Sun Temple, the Ramachandi temple has been thus named after Goddess Ramachandi. Some people believe that the temple is devoted to Goddess Ramachandi and so it is known as Ramachandi temple.
Mahabaleshwar
Hotels in Mahabaleshwar nestled in the lush valleys of the Western Ghats, Mahabaleshwar is a perfect getaway for spending some quality time away from the din and rush of the city. It is located in the Statara district of the state of Maharashtra and the British used it as the summer capital of Bombay to escape from the scorching heat of the plains. In the present days, Mahabaleshwar is a popular tourist spot and also a pilgrimage site. The Mahabaleshwar temple, from which the place has got its name, is much revered by the Hindu pilgrims who drop in from the far corners of the state. With a pleasant climate and many things to watch, your trip to Mahabaleshwar will certainly be a memorable one.
The tourist attractions in Mahabaleshwar are many in number and make sure that you have ample time in hand if you want to explore this spectacular hill station in entirety. On your travel to Mahabaleshwar you will come across several important places such as Mount Malcolm, Catholic Church, Mahabaleshwar Club, Morarji Castle and Pratapgad Fort. There are also several scenic points in Mahabaleshwar that you just cannot afford to miss out and they are Lodwick Point, Elphinstone Point, Wilson Point, Helen’s Point, Badington Point and Carnac Point. Mahabaleshwar is also home to some remarkable temples and you will come across Krishna and Mahabaleshwar temple here. There is also a black stone, which is a little distance from the other temples and holds a venerated place among the locals and the pilgrim tourists frequenting this place. Mahabaleshwar has a fine network of motorable roads and you can enjoy a scenic ride of the most fascinating landscape in and around the place. Besides, an excursion from Mahabaleshwar would take you to Panchgani which is a picturesque spot offering breathtaking natural beauty. Dotted by the casuarinas and silver oak groves, it is an ideal base for indulging in the trekking and hiking activities. The region is also known for many fruit processing units. Strawberry farming is one of the most widespread occupations of the local villagers here. You can step into any of the strawberry farms you pass by while on your drive or trek, and have a look at the farmers picking fresh strawberries from the gardens.
For the tourists there excellent lodging options are available in the bungalows and cottages, apart from a large number of luxury and budget hotels. The accommodations are elegantly furnished and you can relax and expect the homely services here. Fountain Hotel, Brightland Holiday Village, Hotel Anarkali, Hotel Dreamland, Hotel Panorama and Strawberry Country Resort are a few of the notable hotels here. Mahabaleshwar is accessible by the air, rail and road transport. The nearest airport and railway station is Pune and Mahabaleshwar can be reached by road transport quite conveniently from Pune.
Khajuraho Temples
This modest little village has only 3000 residents and is surrounded by forest areas. Every year tourists from different parts of the world visit Khajuraho. This place is famous for the temples, consisting of erotic sculptures and images, depicting passion, music, dance and other creative arts. The popularity of Khajuraho has been a big boost to tourism in Madhya Pradesh. All these temples have been constructed between 9th century to 12th century.
These temples were constructed during the era of Chandela dynasty and depict the rich quality of architecture which was prevalent in that period. Initially 85 such temples were constructed, strictly adhering to the North Indian 'Nagara' style of architecture. Khajuraho has emerged as one of the major historical sites in India apart from being one of the major tourist destinations in Madhya Pradesh. These temples are generally built of sandstone and belong to the Vaishnava, the Shiva or the Jaina sects. Khajuraho has its own airport which makes it even more accessible for the tourists. Getting accommodation here is also quite convenient.
Ajanta Ellora Caves
Chiseled during the span between the 2nd century BC and the 8th century AD, the Ajanta and Ellora caves are two of the most alluring tourist destinations in India. Your tour to India is, in fact, incomplete without a trip to this wonderful tourist site near the city of Ahmedabad in Gujarat. Discovered by John Smith, a British Army Officer with his group on their expedition in 1819, the caves of Ajanta and Ellora lay amidst the Sahyadri hills, carved into the mountain side, over the Waghora River. They illustrate the story of Buddhism, spanning over a period from 200 BC to 650 AD. There are 29 caves which were built as isolated retreats of the Buddhist monks, who preached and performed religious rites in the Chaityas and Viharas, the ancient centers of learning of the Buddhist cultural movement. The saints carved out the stunning figures to decorate the walls of these structures with the help of hammer and chisel. A lot of the caves exhibit panels demonstrating stories from the Jatakas - tales of the several incarnations of the Buddha. One can notice images of nymphs and princesses amongst others.
At 30 kms from Aurangabad are located the Ellora caves, 34 in number. They are carved into the sides of a basaltic hill. The facades and finely designed interiors are some of the finest examples of cave - temple architecture. Carved during 350 AD to 700 AD, these structures depict the three faiths of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. The 17 in the centre are dedicated to Hinduism, 12 caves to the south are Buddhist and the 5 caves to the north are Jain. The Kailasa temple in Cave 16 stands as one of the greatest architectural wonders with the entire composition chiseled out of a monolith. This mountain, believed to be the holy abode of Lord Shiva, is probably the world's largest monolith. The pavilion, gateway, assembly hall, sanctum and tower, are all cut out of a single block. Unlike most of the other temple constructions that start from the base, the sculpture here starts from the very top and the sides. Though massive in size, it exhibits the most delicate and intricate works of art. The Dumar Lena cave is built in resemblance of the famous cave - temple at Elephanta, and is devoted to Lord Shiva.
The Jain caves are located almost a mile away from the Kailasa temple, among which Cave 32 has a beautiful shrine decorated with exquisite carved forms of a lotus flower on the roof, and a yakshi on a lion under a mango tree. Caves 32 and 34 house the majestic statues of Parasnath. The other Jain caves have the illustrations of Tirthankaras, and one of them, even has a seated figure of Mahavira. The Ajanta and Ellora caves gracefully convey the aspects of nobility, grace and serenity reminiscent of Buddha himself and his teachings.
Wildlife Destinations in India
Every rational being with a longing for knowledge, is expected to have a taste for the wild and the unknown. Visits to the various wildlife destinations of India can satisfy this craving to a certain extent. Make use of your tour to India to stay at any of these wildlife destinations of India among the 441 sanctuaries, 80 national parks and 23 tiger reserves, and live life to the fullest in your own style among the deep and dark forests of India to satiate your urge to watch the untamed and feel the adventure. The wildlife destinations of India that have preserved the Indian wildlife over the years are as follows:
Bandhavgarh National Park:
Occupying an area of 105.40-sq-kms, this park in the Umaria District of Madhya Pradesh preserves several white tigers, chausingha, nilgai, chital, chinkara, and wild boar. The Siberian Cranes, Barons, Ibis, Pelicans and Painted Storks that traverse more than half the globe to make Bharatpur Bird Sanctaury their nesting place in winters. This bird paradise of India is a famous refuge of migratory birds.
Corbett National Park:
Occupying 1,200-sq-kms in Uttaranchal, amidst the hilly and temporary marshy depressions, plateaus and ravines this national park is home to a large number of tigers, leopards, and crocodiles.
Gir National Park and Sanctuary:
Situated in the Sasan Gir of Junagarh district, the park is home to the famous Asiatic lion and preserves other species too, like Chinkara, Nilgai, Sambhar, Black Bucks and many more.
Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary:
Located on the riverbanks of Mandovi, this sanctuary is of a meager 1.8 sq km and preserves several local and migratory birds that come from Siberian plains during winter.
Kanha National Park:
Located in the Mandla District of Madhya Pradesh, the Kanha National Park is mainly home to tigers, leopards and bears. The Surpan River, the grasslands and the steep rocky edges make for a wonderful scenic bliss.
Kaziranga National Park:
Situated partially in the Golaghat District and partially in Nagaon District of Assam, along the Brahmaputra River, this national park is famous for preserving the rare species of one horned rhino.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary:
Located along the banks of the lovely Vembanand Lake, it is one of the favorite destinations of the migratory birds like the Siberian stork, heron, egret, darter and teal.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary:
Located in the Cardamom hills region of the Western Ghats in the state of Kerala in SW India, this wildlife reserve is home to several elephants and other animals like Dhole, Nilgiri Tahr, leopard and Sambar.
Ranthambore National Park:
Considered as one of the most visited tourist attractions in India, this national park has a variety of dense forests and open bush land. Apart from the tigers, that it is famous for, it also preserves sambar, chital, nilgai, gazzelle, boars.
Sasangir Wildlife Sanctuary:
Chiefly a preserver of the Asiatic Lion, this national park in the Kathiwad peninsula of Gujarat is one of the finest India wildlife destinations.
Sariska Tiger Reserve:
Declared a Tiger Reserve in 1979, this national park is famous as home to tigers, chital, sambar, leopard, chinkaras.
Sunderbans National Park:
Offering mangroves, swamps, marshlands and several rippling streams for the geographical features, it is famous worldwide for the Royal Bengal Tiger.
