Best of India Tour

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Best of India Tour


Places:- ( Delhi - Jaipur - Pushkar - Udaipur - Mount Abu - Jodhpur - Jaisalmer - Bikaner - Bharatpur - Agra - Delhi - Madras - Tanjore - Madurai - Periyar - Allepey - Cochin - Coimbatore - Ooty - Mysore - Belur - Halebid - Bangalore - Mumbai)
Duration:- (28 nights & 29 days)

Jantar Mantar, DelhiDay 01: Arrival Delhi
Assistance on arrival and transfer to your hotel where a welcome ceremony awaits you. Girls dressed in traditional Indian attire anoint your forehead with ‘a red tikka’ followed by ceremonial garlanding.

Day 02: Delhi
After a leisurely breakfast embark on a sightseeing tour of Old Delhi including the Red fort and the Jama masjid, post lunch tour of New Delhi to include Qutab Minar, India Gate, Humayun's tomb and the Lakshmi Narayan temple.

Day 03: Delhi/Jaipur
Morning drive to Jaipur, the fabled ‘pink city’ of the desert named after Jai Singh, the former Maharajah of Jaipur. Arrive Jaipur by lunch and check inn to your hotel. After Lunch and some rest visit the City Palace, the royal residence of the Maharajah of Jaipur and later visit the Observatory dating back to the 18th century and also visit the Palace of winds (Hawa Mahal). Evening enjoy your dinner with cultural Rajasthani folk dance programme.

Day 04: Jaipur/Pushkar
Morning after breakfast visit the majestic Amber Fort where you ride up on elephants back to the former capital of the royals set against the backdrop of wooded hills. Later explore shopping centres of jaipur and drive to Pushkar. Arrive Pushkar and check inn to your hotel. Evening enjoy the camel Fair.

Day 05: Pushkar
Enjoy the various events and activities in Pushkar fair the whole day.

Day 06: Pushkar/Udaipur
After breakfast drive to Udaipur (the Venice of the east). Arrive Udaipur in the evening and check inn to your hotel.

City Palace, Udaipur Day 07: Udaipur
After Breakfast make a visit to the City Palace, built in 1725 and later visit Sahelion ki Bari, the gardens the maids-of-honour. After lunch make a trip to Nagda and Eklingji to see the beautiful temples in their ruins.

Day 8: Udaipur/Mt.Abu via Ranakpur
Morning drive to the only hill resort of Rajasthan Mt.Abu enroute visiting the famous Jain temples of Ranakpur. Arrive Mt.Abu and check inn to your hotel. Evening at leisure.

Day 09: Mt.Abu/Jodhpur
Morning at leisure to enjoy the scenic beauty of this hill station. After lunch transfer to Jodhpur.

Day 10: Jodhpur
Start the city tour of Jodhpur visiting the Mehrangarh Fort museum and Jaswant thada, the cremation spot of the royal family. After lunch visit the ancient capital of Marwar-Mandore.

Day 11: Jodhpur/Jaisalmer
Morning drive to Jaisalmer situated deep in the heart of the Thar desert. Arrive Jaisalmer and shortly after lunch visit the Chhatris of Maharwals and later Camel ride at Sam for sunset.

Day 12: Jaisalmer/Bikaner
Leave for Bikaner and arrive by lunch. After lunch make a tour of Junagarh Fort and its fabulous palaces.

Day 13: Bikaner/Mandawa
After breakfast transfer to Mandawa (an old castle in Rajasthan). Post lunch session includes a small visit of Mandawa to appreciate the painted Havelis on the ancient and the famous silk route.

Day 14: Mandawa/Bharatpur
Drive to Bharatpur (famous for keoladeo Ghana bird sanctuary). Evening make a visit to the sanctuary.

Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur Day 15: Bharatpur/Agra
Early morning make a visit to the sanctuary to see the birds in their natural habitat. After breakfast drive down to Agra (The city of Tajmahal). Arrive Agra by lunch after a tour of the beautiful city of Fatehpur Sikri, the Old capital of Mughal emperor Akbar. Post lunch tour of the world famous Tajmahal and of the Red Fort. Later explore the shopping centres of Agra. Evening enjoy special cocktail dinner.

Day 16: Agra/Delhi/Madras
Morning at leisure. Afternoon transfer to Delhi domestic airport to connect flight to Madras. Arrive Madras in the evening and check inn to your hotel.

Day 17: Madras
Full day city tour of Madras including the Snake park and Kapaleeswara temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and the museum.

Day 18: Madras/Tanjore
Morning drive to Tanjore and check inn to your hotel. Evening at leisure.

Day 19: Tanjore/Madurai
Morning start the tour of Tanjore visiting the Brihadeshwara Temple, a typical architecture from the 11th century. Later visit the Saraswati Mahal Library. After lunch depart for Madurai , arrive in the evening and transfer to your hotel.

Day 20: Madurai/Periyar
Morning visit the world famous Meenakshi Sundereshwara temple, a huge Dravidian temple complex. After lunch depart for Periyar wild life sanctuary. Arrive Periyar in the evening and check inn hotel.

Day 21: Periyar/Alleppey
Morning boat cruise on the lake to get a closer look at the wild elephants. Later drive to reach the small beautiful town of Allepey situated on the backwaters of Kerala.

Day 22: Alleppey/Cochin
After breakfast boat cruise on the backwaters of Kerala (three hours from boat) and than continue by Road to Cochin. Arrive Cochin and visit the Chinese fishing nets in the backwaters of Cochin. Overnight at boat.

Day 23: Cochin
Sea Boat Ride To Visit Various Islands And Churches, Santa cruz Basilica, Mattancherry Palace, Jewish synagogue, Dutch palace, St. Franchis. Overnight at boat.

Day 24: Cochin/Coimbatore
After breakfast drive to Coimbatore also called the ‘Manchester of South India’. Arrive by lunch and soon after lunch visit the Maruthamalai temple.

Day 25: Coimbatore/Ooty
Morning drive to the queen of hill stations,Ooty known for its salubrious climate and scenic beauty. Arrive Ooty by lunch and rest of the day is at leisure.

Ooty, TamilnaduDay 26: Ooty/Mysore
Morning depart for Mysore (wonderful historic town and evidence city to exhibit the oldest Indian richest economy). Arrive by lunch and shortly after lunch visit the Mysore Palace, once the capital seat of power of the ruling Wodeyars. Also visit the Brindavan Garden, Chamundeeswri temple, Tipu’s summer palace.

Day 27: Mysore/Belur/Halebid
Transfer to Belur, the superbly preserved Chennkesava Temple here is a tribute to the skill and genius of the medieval craftsman. Later visit Halebid temple 10 kms. From Belur, a riot of carvings left incomplete after 80 years of labour.

Day 28: Halebid/Bangalore
Drive to Bangalore to catch flight to Mumbai. Arrive Mumbai in the evening and transfer to your hotel.

Day 29: Mumbai and Departure
After breakfast proceed for a half day city tour of Mumbai visiting Kamla Nehru park, Hanging gardens situated on the slopes of Malabar hill offering a panoramic view of Marine Drive and Chawpatty beach, Prince of wales museum, Mani Bhawan, Dhobi Ghat, Gateway of India and drive through the Crawford market.

Evening Transfer to international Airport in time to board flight for onward destination.

Ajnta Elora Caves

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A LEGACY FROM A GOLDEN AGE
Ajanta Cave
Ajanta and Ellora are the pride of Maharashtra. The rock-cut caves of both these sites are world famous and illustrate the degree of skill and artistry that Indian craftsmen had achieved several hundred years ago. Ajanta dates from 100 B.C. while Ellora is younger by some 600 years. The village of Ajanta is in the Sahyadri hills, about 99 kms. From Aurangabad; a few miles away in a mammoth horseshoe-formed rock, are 30 caves overlooking a gorge, `each forming a room in the hill and some with inner rooms. Al these have been carved out of solid rock with little more than a hammer and chisel and the faith and inspiration of Buddhism. Here, for the Buddhist monks, the artisans excavated Chaityas (chapels) for prayer and Viharas (monasteries) where they lived and taught. Many of the caves have the most exquisite detailed carvings on the walls, pillars and entrances as well as magnificent wall paintings.
These caves were discovered early in the 19th century quite by chance by a party of British Officers on manoeuvres. Today the paintings and sculptures on Buddha’s life, belonging to the more mellow and ritualistic Mahayana Buddhism period, are world famous. Copies of them were shown in the Crystal Palace exhibition in London in 1866. These were destroyed in a fire there. Further copies were published soon afterwards and four volumes of reproductions were brought out in 1933 by Ghulam Yazdani, the Director of Archaeology of the then Hyderabad State. Ajanta has formed an epicentre of interest for those who appreciate and are eager to know more about Indian history and art.
Ajanta Cave It is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India and has been listed in the World Heritage list of monuments.The 30 caves of Ajanta were created over a span of some 600 years.
In their range of time and treatments they provide a panorama of life in ancient India and are a source of all kinds of information... hair styles, ornaments, textiles, musical instruments, details of architecture, customs etc. It was from this collection of classical Indian art that a particular style was formed that traveled with Buddhism to many parts of the world. Similar paintings can be seen in Sigiriya in Sri Lanka, Bamiyan in Afghanistan, temples and shrines in Tibet, Nepal, China and Japan.
Royal patronage made Ajanta possible. Professional artists carried out much of the work and each contributed his own individual skill and devotion to this monumental work.
Visitors often ask how the artist who painted the detailed frescoes and chiseled out the intricate carvings, managed to work in the dark interiors of the caves. It has been noticed that the caves are illuminated by natural light for part of the day and it is presumed that metal mirrors or sheets of white cloth were used to reflect sunlight into the inner recesses.
Highlights of some of the major caves
Ajanta Cave
Here, briefly, are some of the highlights of the caves. In the Cave 26, the sculpture is elaborate and beautiful though the painted frescoes are incomplete. The arched chapel window set in an elegantly simple façade, is repeated in an elaborate frontage in Cave 19 with its complete Chaitya and a slender votive stupa enclosing a standing Buddha at the far end. Of particular note is a sculpture of a seated Nagaraja with his consort and female attendant.
Cave 16 is an elegant Vihara with an inscription that mentions the king and his minister who had the cave built. Here a towering Buddha sits preaching. He is flanked by attendants with fly whisks.
Ajanta Cave No. 1 There are undamaged portions of the wall paintings that are clear and vibrant in Caves 1, 2, 16 and 17. Cave I has the well known Bodhisattva Padmapani which is a wonderful portrayal of tender compassion. A gentle figure holding a lotus delicately in one hand.
In the same cave is the golden figure of Avalokiteswara, elaborately adorned. The women, nymphs, princess and attendants are elegant and beautifully attired. Here also is a lively panel of dancing girls and musicians. In Cave 2 there is a detailed panel of Queen Maya’s dream, of the white elephant which was interpreted by royal astrologers to mean the birth of an illustrious son. The row upon row of Buddhas, can be seen in this cave. In Cave 17, there is a flying apsara in a fashionable embroidered turban and splendid jewellery.
It is worth walking away from the caves in order to look back on to the horseshoe gorge. The ingenuous water cistern system can be seen which must have provided water for the monks and their visitors. Ajanta was on the ancient trade route leading to the coast so there must have been considerable activity and many visitors. Nobody really knows what life was like in those times and visitors can interpret the past as they wish, which is perhaps yet another secret charm of Ajanta.
A Matter of History View this article on the Ajanta and Ellora Caves
Listing of Caves  
Phase I: 2 nd century BC to 1 st century BC
Caves 9 & 10: Chaitya Halls or shrines
Caves 12 & 13: Viharas or monasteries
Phase II: 5 th century AD to 6 th century AD
Caves 19,26 & 29: Chaitya Halls or shrines
Caves 1-7, 11, 14-18, 20-25, 27 & 28: Viharas or monasteries
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Unfinished Caves: 3, 5, 8, 23-25, 28 & 2
Getting There  
There are plenty of tours operated from Aurangabad to the Ajanta Ellora Caves. These tours cover all the other attractions enroute the caves from Aurangabad.
Air Nearest airport is Aurangabad 108 kms.
Rail Jalgaon, 58 kms. on Central Railway is a convenient railhead.
Mumba-Ajanta, 491 kms. via Jalgaon. Mumbai-Ajanta, 487kms. via Manmad. Mumbai-Ajanta, $99 kms. Via Pune. State Transport and luxury buses run from Aurangabad and Jalgaon toAjanta.
Top
Accommodation  
Accommodations MTDC Hotel at Ajanta-a choice of single (2 blocks) and double (2 blocks) rooms. Fardapur : selfcontained (1 block-14 beds) Fardapur (Kanhaiya Kunj self contained rooms (12blocks) group. Accommodation ( 2 block 18 beds).
Check out time  
9.00 a.m.
 

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Uttarkhand Tour

Duration : 2 Nights / 3 Days
Destinations Covered : 2 Nainital - 2Kasauni - 1Almora

Tour Cost - Per Couple in INR Valid up to 30 MAR 10
Packages Off Season Season Nainital Kasauni Almora
Superior Rs. 25950 Rs. 31000 Elphinstone Hotel Pine havens Mount Heaven
Deluxe Rs .27500 Rs.35000 Chevron Fairhavens Hotel Chevron mountain villa Kasaar Jungle Resort
Super Deluxe Rs .36500 Rs.41000 Arif Castles Suman Royal Resort Kalmatia Sangam(1N)

Season :
1st OCT to 15th NOV , 15th DEC to 5th JAN and long week ends

Off Season :
All dates except season dates New Year Cost will be additional
Uttarakhand Tours
Child Cost :
Child with extrabed sharing parents room 35% of the above cost and child without extrabed has to pay 25% of the above cost (below 12 years)

Cost includes
Accommodation : on twin sharing basis in standard room.
Daily breakfast and Dinner.
Transportation using Indica Non-A/c car as per the itinerary including all taxes, parking, toll, driver allowance.
All applicable hotel taxes and service taxes.

Cost does not include
Lunch, Entry ticket , telephone, laundry,safari charges or anything which is not mentioned above.

Uttarakhand Tours


Day 01 : Delhi - Nainital
Our representative will receive you in Delhi and then proceed to Nanital, where you shall be checked in at a hotel. Nainital is a town in the Indian state of Uttarakhand and headquarters of Nainital district in the Kumaon foothills of the outer Himalayas. Situated at an altitude of 1,938 metres (6,358 feet) above sea level, Nainital is set in a valley containing a pear-shaped lake, approximately two miles in circumference, and surrounded by mountains, of which the highest are Naina (2,615 m (8,579 ft)) on the north, Deopatha (2,438 m (7,999 ft)) on the west, and Ayarpatha (2,278 m (7,474 ft) on the south. Dinner and overnight stay will be provided at the hotel.

Day 02 : Nainital
Have breakfast and then go out for local sightseeing at the tourist spots like Naukuchiatal, Sataal and Bhimtal.Dinner and overnight stay at hotel.

Day 03 : Kasauni
Breakfast will be followed by a trip to Kausani enroute Ranikhet visiting Chaubatia, Kalika and Upat in Ranikhet. Kausani is the place situated in the Bageshwar district of the Uttarakhand state of India.Kausani is the Himalayan tourist destination, which is 117 kms from Nainital, the altitude of this place is about 1890 mts. This place offers an excellent 350 km view of the Himalayan peaks like Trisul, Nanda Devi and Panchchuli. There are very few places in the Himalayas which can compare with the beauty of Kausani - A picturesque hill station famous for its scenic beauty and its spectacular 300 km-wide panoramic view of the Himalayas. Kausani lies on the atop the ridge admist dense Pine trees overlooking Someshwar valley on one side and Garur and Baijnath Katyuri valley on the other on Almora-Bageshwar-Didihat Highway. Mahatma Gandhi called this place the 'Switzerland of India', due to similarity in landscape. Dinner and overnight stay at shall be provided at a hotel in Kausani.

Day 04 : Kasauni
The fourth day shall be booked for local sightseeing and leisure activity at Kausani.

Day 05 : Almora
A journey to Almora will begin after breakfast. It is a cantonment town in Almora district in the state of Uttarakhand, India, founded in 1568 .Almora is located at an altitude of 1638 meters (5,500 feet), on a ridge at the southern edge of the Kumaon Hills of the Himalaya range. It is a horse saddle shaped hillock, which is surrounded by thick forests of pine and fur trees, flowing alongside the city are rivers of Koshi(Kaushiki) and Suyal(salmale) and to top it all are the snow capped Himalayas in the background. Almora is a town bustling with activity, and has a rich cultural heritage and history. It is considered the cultural heart of the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand.Dinner and overnight stay shall be provided at Almora.

Day 06 : Departure Almora
After breakfast, back to Delhi (380 kms/7 hours).

Nainital Tours

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Nainital Tours


Duration : : 4 Nights / 5 Days
Destinations Covered : 1Night Jim Corbett National Park - 3Nights Nainital with Ranikhet


Tour Cost - Per Couple in INR Valid up to 30 Sep 10
Packages Off Season Season Jim Corbett Nainital
Superior 23,500 28,000 Chevron the Camp, Elphinstone
Deluxe 24,500 31,000 Corbett Suman Grand(1N) Chevron Fairhavens
Super Deluxe 36,000 39,000 Corbett Riverside resort Arif Castles

Season :
1st OCT to 15th NOV , 15th DEC to 5th JAN and long week ends

Jim Corbett Nainital Tours Off Season :
All dates except season dates New Year Cost will be additional

Child Cost :
Child with extrabed sharing parents room 35% of the above cost and child without extrabed has to pay 25% of the above cost (below 12 years)

Cost includes
Accommodation : on twin sharing basis in standard room.
Daily breakfast and Dinner.
Transportation using Indica Non-A/c car as per the itinerary including all taxes, parking, toll, driver allowance.
All applicable hotel taxes and service taxes.

Cost does not include
Lunch, Entry ticket , telephone, laundry,safari charges or anything which is not mentioned above.

Nainital Tours


Day 01 : Delhi - Jim Corbett National Park
Our representatives will receive you in Delhi and from there journey to Jim Corbett National Park(300kms/7hrs) will begin. Jim Corbett National Park is named after the hunter and naturalist Jim Corbett who played a key role in its establishment - is the oldest national park in India. The park was established in 1936 was initially named, Hailey National Park. Located in Nainital district of Uttarakhand, the park acts as a protected area for the critically endangered Bengal tiger of India, the secure survival of which is the main objective of Project Tiger, an Indian wildlife protection initiative. Dinner and overnight stay will be provided in the resort.

Day 02 : Jim Corbett - Nainital
A safari inside the national park in the morning, and later in the afternoon proceed to Nainital(60 kms/2 hours), Nainital is a town in the Indian state of Uttarakhand and headquarters of Nainital district in the Kumaon foothills of the outer Himalayas. It is situated at an altitude of 1,938 metres (6,358 feet) above sea level, Nainital is set in a valley containing a pear-shaped lake, approximately two miles in circumference, and surrounded by mountains, of which the highest are Naina (2,615 m (8,579 ft)) on the north, Deopatha (2,438 m (7,999 ft)) on the west, and Ayarpatha (2,278 m (7,474 ft) on the south. Evening free for leisure. Dinner and overnight stay at Hotel.

Day 03 : Nainital - Ranikhet - Nainital
After a hearty breakfast an excursion trip to Ranikhet shall be scheduled. Ranikhet is a hill station and cantonment town in Almora district in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is at an altitude of 1829 metres above sea level and within sight of the western peaks of the Himalayas.Ranikhet gets its name, which mean Queen's meadow in English, from a legend that an Indian queen visited the site and built herself a palace here, though no palace exists in the area. In 1869, the British established the headquarters of the Kumaon regiment here; it served as their holiday home for the summers. Ranikhet is a cantonment town and is the home for the Kumaon (KRC) & Naga regiment and is maintained by the Indian Army. Places to visit at Ranikhet are Upat, Kalika and Chaubatia. Upat and Kabika is a paradise for golfers having one of the best 9 hole golf course links in the country,Upat is a famous attraction in Ranikhet. A temple of Goddess Kali is also located in Upat, which is worth paying a visit during a tour to Ranikhet. Again Chaubatia is the abode to many fruit orchards, gardens and the government fruit research centre, it is equally famous for its enchanting views of Himalayas. After viewing Ranikkhet back to the hotel in Nanital.

Day 04 : Nainital
The forth day after having breakfast, go out for local sightseeing including tourist spots like, Naukuchiatal, Sattaal, Bhimtal. This day shall be entirely spent in viewing Nanital.

Day 05 : Departure
After breakfast, back to Delhi (322 kms/7 hours).

Kasmir Tour

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 Kasmir Tours:

Duration : 04 N / 05D
Destination : Srinagar - Gulmarg - Srinagar - Sonmarg - Pahalgam.

Tour Cost : Per couple

Price Srinagar
Superior 22500/- Zaffer Houseboats
Deluxe Rs 23500/- Meena Houseboats
Book Your Tour
Child Cost :
Child with extrabed sharing parents room 25% of the above cost and child without extrabed has to pay 15% of the above cost (below 12 years).

Kashmir Tours Cost includes :
  • Transportation and Sightseeing in Non Ac Tavera as per the itinerary below inclusive of all transportation related charges.
  • Accommodation in mentioned hotels or similar in a standard room.
  • Daily breakfast & Dinner.
  • All applicable taxes.
Cost does not include :
  • Lunch, Telephone, Laundry, Entry tickets or anything which is not mentioned above.
Kashmir Tours :

Day 1 : Srinagar
Upon arrival at Srinagar airport, our representative will meet you and transfer you to the Houseboat. Rest of the day is at leisure in the houseboat amid the extraordinary beauty of Kashmir Valley. In the eveining, dinner and overnight stay in the Houseboat.

Day 2 : Srinagar
Today morning after breakfast, proceed for local sightseeing tour of Srinagar which includes Mughal Gardens, Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Hazratbal Shrine and Shankarcharya temple. In the afternoon return to the houseboat and dinner and overnight stay in houseboat.

Day 3 : Srinagar - Gulmarg - Srinagar
Today morning after early breakfast, we take you for a full day excursion to Gulmarg(60kms/2hrs drive).Gulmarg is mostly famous for its golf course with 18 holes and has got one of the best ski slopes in the world. In the evening come back to the houseboat and dinner & overnight stay in houseboat in Srinagar.

Day 4 : Srinagar - Sonmarg - Srinagar
Today morning after breakfast we take you for a full day excursion to Sonmarg(85kms/3hrs drive). The drive through this valley presents a spectacular facet of the Kashmir countryside. Sonamarg is surrounded by colourful mountains and thick pine forest and is primarily famous for its natural beauty, alpine flowers, sycamore silver birch and pine trees. In the evening come back to the houseboat and dinner & overnight stay in houseboat in Srinagar.

Day 5 : Departure
Today after breakfast, check out from the houseboat in Srinagar and travel by surface to Pahalgam (90kms/3hrs), Pahalgam , Once a humble shepherd’s village, it is now Kashmir’s one of the premier summer resort, cool even during the height of summer. Pahalgam is not just a hill-station it is a recreation resort and also the starting point for the annual Amarnath Yatra held in summer. Upon arrival at Pahalgam, check in to the hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure in the lap of nature. Dinner and overnight in the hotel

Day 6 : Pahalgam
Breakfast and morning is at leisure in the hotel. In the afternoon we take you for a local sightseeing tour of Pahalgam. In the evening return to the hotel, Dinner and overnight in the hotel.
Book Your Tour
Day 7 : Pahalgam - Srinagar - Departure
Today after breakfast, check out from the hotel and you will be transferred to Srinagar airport to board the flight to your onward destination.

Languages of India

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Languages of India

Languages of India Overview


Mainly the Indo-Aryan dialect splits in east as Bangla and Oriya and again Bangla gave rise to Assamiya. The north-western dialect gave rise to mainly Kashmiri, Sindi and Punjabi languages. The western apabharamsha split into 'Hindi' and it is the 19th century existed language again gave rises to different dialects namely Marathi and Gujarati.

Schedule languages namely Manipuri, Kashmiri, Sindhi, Nepali, Konkani as well as Sanskrit, altogether don't have more than 0.75 crore speakers in India. Other languages namely Kannada, Oriya, Punjabi, Tamil, Assamese, Bengali,Gujarati, Malayalam, Marathi and Urdu in all are spoken by the half citizens of the country.

This all explains that the languages are in five stages, at top there are Hindi and English, in the very next stage there are major literary languages like Bengali, Oriya, Marathi, Tamil, Kannada, Punjabi and Urdu. In the next stage there are other major group with less number of speakers namely Konkani, Sindhi and Manipuri. In the last there are Marwadi, Kachchi and Ahirani, which are not recognized as separate languages like Bhantu spoken by many tribal and nomadic communities.

History of Languages in India


In all the Indian country has total eighteen different languages as per the constitution and nearly 1600 different minor languages and more than thousand groups separated because of the pronunciations, grammar rules and vocabulary and style.

Many urban citizens of India know as well as speak 'English'. Where as 'Hindi' is the national language and spoken in northern states of the country predominantly. But in every area of India now people knew 'Hindi' as it is required for tourism across country and popularity of Hindi films increased nationally.

The variety of languages is the cultural ornament of India and it is because of the history of assimilation of different tribes and traditions. Four hundred million people speak 'Hindi' as their mother tongue in India and this is also official language of the country. In the north India dialects as well as the apabhramsha added to the original language also considered as new and independent language.

English is widely used for the official purpose by the Constitution, so as to make ease of communication between Hindi and non-Hindi speaking states. But in the second millennium many languages had started to emerge newly from the sub-continent of the country. These were expressions of regional ambition against the dominancy of 'Sanskrit' and it's Sanskriti.

Languages Used Officialy in India


The Hindi tradition has interactions with Islam and gave rise to Urdu and Arabic languages. Also in the southern part of the country Tamil got divided into Telagu and Kannada mainly and regenareted Malayalam as the combination of Telagu and Kannada.
In start all the languages of India are considered as they are originated from Sanskrit, but some time after Dravidic family is the origin of Tamil language. Hindi was selected as the mother tongue by 20.85 crores peoples in India in 1971 and by 26.45 crores in 1981 and so finalised as the national language.
In India there are 29 states and 6 union territories having 18 official and 114 total languages, 216 different mother tongues. But Hindi is national language and English is used for national, political and educational purposes as well.
States and the Official Languages

Following is the listing which provides you the information about which is the official and the co-official language used in the different states of India.
  • Hindi : This language is the most used official language of many states in India like UP, Bihar, MP, Jharkhand, Uttaranchal, Rajasthan, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh as well as in the National Capital Territory of Delhi.
  • Marathi : This is official language of state Maharashtra.
  • Punjabi : This is official language of state Punjab.
  • Gujarati : This is official language of state Gujarat.
  • Tamil : This is official language of states Tamil Nadu, Pondicherry as well as Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
  • Malayalam : This is official language of states Kerala and Lakshadweep.
  • Kannada : This is official language of state Karnataka.
  • Telugu : This is official language of state Andhra Pradesh.
  • Oriya : This is official language of state Orissa.
  • English : This language is used co-officially in the Indian Union and many above mentioned states, but some may have different co-official language as well.


Darjeeling Queen of the hills

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Darjeeling is also called 'Queen of the hills'. This famous hill station in the state of West Bengal in India is one of the highlights of Indian tourism and West Bengal tourism benefits significantly from the vast number of Indian and international tourists that visits Darjeeling every year. The town is also the capital of the Darjeeling district which is the northernmost district of West Bengal bordering Nepal. The town offers fantastic vacations in summer as well as winter. The view of the Himalayas, particularly the magnificent view of the Kanchenjungha is one of the major attractions of Darjeeling. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, popularly known as the toy train, has become the symbol of Darjeeling

Major tourist attractions in Darjeeling
Every nook and corner of Darjeeling fascinates the tourist. The mall, the sloping streets, the beautiful colonial buildings, the pines, temples, monasteries and even the whistling toy train combine to make Darjeeling one of the best hill stations in India. The major tourist spots in Darjeeling are-

Darjeeling Mall
The mall is one of the most popular places in Darjeeling. It is the center of tourist activities in the town and most of the hotels are clustered around the mall. The mall is also the location of the taxi stands from where tourists can hire taxis to the sites in and around Darjeeling. Many shops including old bookshops and curio stores are a major draw in the mall. The first site to welcome tourists at the mall is the local people offering pony rides and photographers clicking pictures of people as they ride the ponies. People tired from walking can take a break and sit on the many benches placed in the mall and sip the excellent tea sold by local tea vendors. There are many restaurants, cafes, and ice cream parlors around the mall. Early morning and evenings are the best time to stroll in the mall.

Ghoom Monastery
Ghoom is the last destination of the famous Darjeeling toy train. Located six kilomerters from Darjeeling, Ghoom is home to the famous Ghoom monastery at an altitude of 2407 meters. The main attraction of the monastery is the 4.5 meter statue of Maitreya Buddha.
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Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
This institute is an interesting tourist spot offering information about mountain climbing and the history of mountaineering in the region. Mountaineering gears are on display here along with rare pictures related to Mt Everest and other important mountain expeditions. The institute was established in1954 after the successful conquest of Mt Everest, and offers training in mountaineering and rock climbing.

Bhutia Busti
This beautiful monastery situated on CR Das road was transferred in 1879 from its original location on the observatory hill. The monastery has an interesting library that contains many old Buddhist texts and scrolls.

Observatory Hill
This place is a popular point from where tourists can get a magnificent view of the entire region and Mt Kanchenjunga on a clear, sunny day.

There are many other tourist attractions in Darjeeling. These include the famous tiger hill, Dhirdham temple, Lebong race course, and the handicrafts museum. Kalimpong, Takdah, Mirik, Lava, Lolegaon and Sandakphu are some of the important tourist spots near Darjeeling. A tour of Darjeeling offers wonderful opportunities for shopping and many adventure activities.

Touristplacesinindia.com offers all inclusive information about Darjeeling and other tourist places in India.

Beaches of gujarat

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Beaches

Kutch Mandvi Beach GujaratGujarat has the longest coastline of all the states in India. As a result, the state and its neighboring Union Territories offer a plethora of beaches. These beaches are the finest in the country and attract a huge number of tourists every year. The pristine waters, soft sands and rich flora and fauna are their main attractions. You can relax and unwind amidst the natural serene surroundings. It's a promise that your trip to these exotic beaches of Gujarat will provide you with an unforgettable experience. Apart from this, the towns located near the beaches have immense possibilities for sightseeing. They house a number of historical forts, palaces, churches and museums worth seeing.

Ahmedpur Mandvi Beach
Ahmedpur Mandvi Beach is situated on the coastline of the state of Gujarat and is one of the finest beaches in India. It is located in Ahemdpur Mandvi, which is the historic port town of Maharao of Kutch.

Chorwad Beach
Chorwad Beach of Gujarat is another splendid beach situated on the west coast of India. It is situated at a distance of 66 km from Junagadh. Chorwad has a high potential of attracting both domestic as well as international tourists. The beach constitutes of rocky hills and presents opportunity for thrilling boat rides.

Diu Beach
Diu beach is situated off the Saurashtra coast and is connected to the state of Gujarat via a causeway. Diu is a secluded island and does not have much population. This makes it the place ideal for a serene vacation, away from the worries of daily life.

Gopnath Beach
Gopnath Beach is situated in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat. It is located on the coast of the Gulf of Kambhat, at a distance of 75 km from the city of Bhavnagar. Gopnath is a pristine beach known for its natural beauty.

Kutch Mandvi Beach
Kutch Mandvi is an important beach in Gujarat, situated at Mandvi. Mandvi is the historic port town of Maharao of Kutch, located at a distance of 75 km from Bhuj. Kutch Mandvi was once inhabited by the Maharao of Kutch and was an important seaport.

Bhavnagar Tourist Attractions

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Bhavnagar Tourist Attractions

Gandhi Memorial GujaratBhavnagar boasts of a number of tourist attractions. Situated near to Ahmedabad, the city is yet another destination in the state visited by tourists in large numbers. It was once the princely state of the Maharaja of Bhavnagar. This glorious past has resulted in Bhavnagar being dotted with a number of lakes and temples. It even houses the Samaldas College, where the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi was once a student. The college is more than 100 years old. Apart from this, there are many interesting places to see on the sightseeing tours of the city.

Gandhi Memorial
Gandhi Memorial is also known as Gandhi Smriti Museum. The museum has a collection of some rare photographs and memorabilia associated with Mahatma Gandhi.

The Barton Library
Barton Library is one of the oldest libraries in Gujarat. It is located in the center of Bhavnagar. There is also a museum in the building. which is a worth visiting spot in the city.

Gaurishankar Lake
Gaurishankar Lake is a popular picnic spot. A number of fairs and other public events are also organized here. The lake is flanked by a beautiful garden known as Pil Garden. There is also a small planetarium in the vicinity.

Takhteshwar Temple
Takhteshwar Temple is located on a hillock near the city. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is an important pilgrim place for the nearby region. It was built in the year 1893 by Maharaja Takhatsihnji. The temple and the whole complex are made up of white shining marble. It is a much sought after picnic spot and offers a panoramic view of the city.

Water Lock Gate
Water Lock Gate is a one of its kind structure in Gujarat. It was

Ahmedabad famous city of gujarat

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Ahmedabad
 
 
ahmedabad.jpgNamed after a Sultan who founded it in 1411 and graced it with splendid monuments; associated with Mahatma Gandhi, the apostle of peace and nonviolence whose simple ashram on the banks of river Sabarmati is now a site of national pilgrimage; renowned as a great textile & commercial centre and as the 'Manchester of India'. Ahmedabad is today the second largest prosperous and thriving city in western India. Ahmedabad also played a prominent role during the freedom movement of India as it was the centre of Mahatma Gandhi's activities for some years. The city has number of attractions for travellers. It is one of the best places which blend Islamic and Hindu architectural styles. Ahmedabad tours makes for a very interesting ride for those who like to shop and roam.

General Information

Climate: Semi-arid climate
Weather: Min 5° C & max 47° C
Best Time to Visit: November- February
Suggested Clothing: Woolens in winter & cotton during summers

Places to visit

  • Sabarmati Gandhi Ashram:
    Situated along the bank of Sabarmati River, this ashram was founded by Mahatma Gandhi and has become a place of pilgrimage. It was from here that he set out for his famous Dandi March undertaken in 1930 to have the Salt Tax repealed. It served as Mahatma Gandhi's headquarters during the struggle for Indian Independence. Gandhiji's living quarters are preserved as a small museum with pictorial exhibits of major events in his life.
  • Kankaria Lake:
    South-east of the city, this artificial lake complete with an island summer palace, was constructed in 1451 and has 34 sides, each 60m long. Once frequented by Emperor Jehangir and Empress Noor Jahan, it is now a local picnic spot. There's a huge zoo, a small aquarium and boat club. The entire Kankaria area with the introduction of open air theatre and children's garden is known as 'Balvatika'.
    Bhadra Fort: The foundation of this old fort was laid in 1411 it once enclosed the royal palaces and gardens.
  • The Jumma Masjid:
    Described by some as one of the most beautiful mosque in India. This Friday or Congregational Mosque, was built by the city's founder, Sultan Ahmed Shah in 1423. It stands on 26 pillars supporting 15 domes at varying elevations. The mosque is located in the centre of the old city.
  • Rani Rupmati Masjid:
    The Queen's Mosque in Mirzapur, built between 1430 and 1440, is more representative of the pattern of mosque building in 15th century Ahmedabad. Three domes stand on twelve pillars each, with the central part so raised as to let in natural light without sunlight.
  • The Shaking Minarets:
    The Shaking Minarets of Sidi Bashir's Mosque is unique in its own way, when one minaret is shaken the other minaret vibrates too.
  • Sidi Sayyad Mosque:
    One part of the wall in the old citadel of the mosque built by Ahmed Shah's slave, Sidi Sayyad, is celebrated world over for its exquisite stone window tracery - a superb and peerless example of delicate carving that transforms stone into filigree.
  • Nal Sarovar:
    This delightful bird sanctuary of Gujarat nestles around the Nal Lake is 1 km from Ahmedabad. The lake extends over a vast, low-lying stretch which serves as a catchment area for the monsoon rains and provides a perfect habitat for resident birds as well as a huge number of species that migrate here starting from November to February. Winter migrants from the north include the Rosy Pelicans, the Flamingos, the White Storks, Brahminy Ducks and Herons.
  • Three Gates:
    The triple-arched gateway was built by Sultan Ahrned Shah to serve as the royal entrance to the Maidan Shah or the Royal Square.
  • Adalaj Step-well:
    It is situated 17 km north of Ahmedabad. The step well at the village of Adalaj is another fine example of this magnificent architectural faun. Adalaj Vav is richly carved, every pillar and wall surface covered with leaves and flowers, birds and fishes and friezes of ornamental designs. .
  • Lothal:
    A find of tremendous archaeological significance. This site 87 km from Ahmedabad was discovered some 20 years ago. Lothal has proved to be a full-fledged settlement of the Harappan era dating as far back as the 2nd millennium B C.

Highlights of Ahmedabad Tourism

Navratri Festival at Ahmedabad
While the basic celebrations are alive and joyous, as they are elsewhere, at Ahmedabad the garba parties are enormous. In large public squares, group of musicians sing the traditional garba song. A bhajan singer with a harmonium sings into a microphone in crowded localities, where open space is not available; the garba ceases to be the circular dance but instead becomes a long line of people, comprising both men and women moving in accordance with the turns and bends of the street. The scene is fully fantastic.
Food
Ahmedabad is mainly a vegetarian city which enjoys one of the richest culinary traditions. A Gujarati thali (platter) comprises of various vegetables, dal, rice along with pickles and more. The meal is vast and is prepared with few spices making it an enjoyable treat for especially foreigners who hesitate from spicy food of India. An array of Indian and international cuisines are served at numerous restaurants though most of it is only vegetarian for the state which has large number of Hindu and Jain populations promote vegetarianism. Now- a-days numerous international outlets such as Pizza Hut and more are also making their way in the local bazaars.

Access

  • Air: International and various domestic airlines connecting Bombay, Delhi, Madras, Calcutta, Bangalore and other major centres of India.
  • Rail: Ahmedabad is linked by rail to Delhi, Bombay, Jaipur, Udaipur, Calcutta, Madras, other major centres of India, and several other tourist centres.
  • Road: State Transport buses and private luxury coaches connects various centres of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi and Rajasthan. It is 555kms from Bombay, 1076 kms from Delhi via Udaipur and Jaipur.

Dwarka a holy place

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Dwarka
 
 
Dwarka.jpgDwarka is an important city for Hindu Pilgrimage. This was the kingdom of Lord Krishna. The entire city was revealed by marine excavations. The city of Dwarka, renowned in myth and legend, was once the capital of Lord Krishna's empire. He is believed to have settled there after leaving Mathura, thousands of years ago. The site is undoubtedly ancient but its association with Lord Krishna gives it a sanctity which draws millions of pilgrims. It is one of India's seven oldest towns or sapta puris, where he reigned for decades as leader of a growing clan.

On the eve of the great battle of Kurukshetra, Lord Krishna set out from Dwarka to the site of the battle, to instruct Arjuna, the Pandava, and these instructions form the text of the Bhagavad Gita. Famous for his divine compassion, Krishna was devoted to those whom he loved. When Sudama, the humble friend of his childhood, visited him hesitantly at Dwarka, he was received like a royal prince by Lord Krishna and his queen, the beautiful Rukmini. There are many other legends connected with Dwarka. It is said that when the Lord finally abandoned his body, the city slipped into the sea and its waves closed over it for ever.

Today's Dwarka, like its ancient counterpart, stand poised on the edge of the Kutchh peninsula, facing the Arabian sea. In times gone by, it was a seaport from where goods were borne to the Mediterranean world. The city was also the gateway to western India. It is clear that Dwarka was a populour town with buildings constructed of stone and brick, even before the Christian era. Its archaeological remains point to a level of prosperity unusual at that time. Throughout the centuries, Dwarka has been visited by many persons whose names illuminate the pages of history. Among these were Adi Shankaracharya (c 780 to 820 AD), Ramanuja (12th century A.D), the great mystic Narsinh Mehta, Mira, the devout princess from Chitor, and the great saints Kabir and Nanak.

Places to visit

  • Jagat Mandir
    Dwarka is famous for the temple of Dwarkadhish, the ` Lord of Dwarka' also known as Jagat Mandir or temple of the world. It is sup- posed to have been constructed over 1400 years ago, although many claim that it is even older. It houses the image of Lord Krishna and is the beacon which draws pilgrims from all over India and abroad. Magnificently built on traditional lines, the temple has five floors and is profusely carved from base to pinnacle. The festival of Lord Krishna's birth is celebrated there every year in the auspicious month of Shravan with great splendour and amidst great rejoicing. Navratri and other festivals celebrated there during the year recall special events in the Lord's life. It is during these festivals, redolent as they are with mystic fervor and joy, that the true significance of Dwarka can be understood.
  • The Sharada Peetha
    This is one of the four Mathas established by Jagat-guru Shankaracharya, all of which survive to this day. The Matha runs an educational society, an arts college and a Sanskrit Academy, which prepares scholars for doctorates in Sanskrit and Indology.
  • Bet Dwarka
    Also known as Bet Shankhoddar, Bet Dwarka is only 5 kms from Okha Junction in sea and Okha is 30 kms from Dwarka. It is said to be the place where Lord Krishna lived with his family when the ruled at Dwarka. It is also the place where Vishnu slew the demon Shankhasura. Visitors make it a point to visit the Krishna temple at this site which holds much of interest to be seen and experienced.
  • Nageswar Mahadev
    The Puranas mention 12 Jyotirlingas or columns of light representing Lord Shiva, who manifested himself in that form in different parts of India. This shiva shrine near Dwarka is one of these and is there- fore accorded great respect. 

Photo Gallary

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Photo gallery is being presented by 'Services International Ltd'. We offer you images of Indian people, nature, monuments and real life. For high resolution images click on the image itself.
 
 
Fairs & Festivals Dance
     
     

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Places To See, Agra

Places To See, Agra


Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal, the one and only one of its kind across the world. The monumental labour of love of a great ruler for his beloved queen. The ultimate realisation of Emperor Shahjahan's dream. One of the wonders of the world. From 1631 A.D., it took 22 years in the making. An estimated 20,000 people worked to complete the enchanting mausoleum, on the banks of the Yamuna.

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Agra Fort
Though Agra is more famous world over as the city of Taj,Agra Fort is another dimension to the city thatattracts tourists in hordes. Built by Akbar in Red Sandstone when he was through with.....

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Ram Bagh
Laid out in 1528 by Babur the first of the Mughal emperors this is the earliest Mughal garden. It is said that Babur was temporarily buried here before being permanently interred at Kabul in Afaganisthan.....

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Dayal Bagh
In Dayal Bagh, 10 km north of Agra. The white marble samadhi of the Radah Soami religion is currently under construction. It was started in 1904 and is nor expected to be completed until sometime next century.

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Jama Masjid
The mosque at Sikri was the first structure to be built in 1571. The exterior is modest but the interior carries the most gorgeous ornamentation in the floral arabesques and ingenious geometrical patterns in brown....

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Fatehpur Sikri
Unfortunately I've not visited Fatehpur Sikri, a ghost city 37 km from Agra, simply because I didn't know it existed. I would encourage any future visitor of Agra to pay it a visit....

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Jahangir Mahal
Undoubtedly, the most noteworthy building inside Agra Fort is the Jahangir Mahal (Jahangir's Palace), which was the principal zenana palace (palace for women belonging to the royal household), used mainly by the Rajput wives of Akbar.....

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Diwan-I-Am
Diwan-I-Am (Hall of Public audience)was again a building constructed by Shahjahan who replaced an earlier wooden structure....

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Diwan-I-Khas
Diwan-I-khas (Hall of Private audience) is a small hall with double marble columns inlaid with pietra dura decoration. Shahjahan built the structure between 1636 and 1637 and it is where the emperor used to receive the important dignitaries.....

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Seesh Mahal & Khas Mahal
Both Jahangir (Akbar's son) and Shahjahan (Akbar's grandson) were enamored of the sensuous effect of white marble; in their quest to make buildings of marble.....

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Moti Masjid
Further north stands the Moti Masjid (pearl mosque), its three domes in white marble....

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Panch Mahal
Panch Mahal, a five storeyed pavilion, stands on the western line of the courtyard.This is the badgir, the Persian wind tower for ladies of the harem......

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Buland Darwaza
Buland Darwaza, the colossal triumphal arch, was built in 1575 on the southern wall of the courtyard. It celebrates Akbar's conquest of Gujarat.....

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Octagonal Tower
Musamman Burj is the most romantic, ornamental pavilion wherein lived two most beautiful and powerful Mughal queens-Nurjahan and Mumtaz Mahal....

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Itmad-Ud-Daulah
The city of Agra is full of architectural wonders. On one hand, it has the famous Taj Mahal, and on the other hand, it has the Agra Fort and Itimad-ud-Daulah’s....

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Akbar Mausoleum
At Sikandra 10 km north of Agra, the tomb of Akbar lies in the centre of the large garden. Akbar started its construction himself but it was completed by his son,......
PLaces To See, Agra · · ·› Taj Mahal · · ·› Agra Fort · · ·› Ram Bagh · · ·› Dayal Bagh · · ·› Jama Masjid · · ·› Fatehpur Sikri · · ·› Jahangir Mahal · · ·› Diwan-I-Am · · ·› Diwan-I-Khas · · ·› Seesh Mahal & Khas Mahal · · ·› Moti Masjid · · ·› Panch Mahal · · ·› Buland Darwaza · · ·› Octagonal Tower · · ·› Itmad-Ud-Daulah · · ·› Akbar Mausoleum

Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery

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Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery

Baroda Museum, Gujarat TourismLocated in the popular Sayaji Bagh, the museum houses a collection which belonged to the former maharaja Sayaji Rao Gaekwad. Indian rulers during the Raj often collected all kinds of European art and other knick knacks.


Largely being the personal collection of the maharaja, the exhibits span across centuries and continents, as well as diverse art forms. There are Greek and Roman sculpture with European paintings of earlier periods. Asian section has items from Burma, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, China and Japan made of wood, ivory, bronze and pottery.


The Indian art section is a line collection of ancient objects. There is a bronze jar circa 2nd century AD, perhaps associated with the Graeco-Roman trading with India around Gujarat in pre historic times. There are painted manuscripts from Rajasthan school, a Ragamala series and family portraits.


Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery
Sayaji Park Vadodara

Timing: 10.00 am to 5.00 pm

Closed on Mondays and government holidays

Junagadh Tourism

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Junagadh Tourism

Junagadh TourismThe history of junagadh is chequered by the rules of the Mauryans, Kshatrapas, Guptas, Vilabhis, Chudasamas, Gujarat Sultans and Babi Nawabs. Junagadh, at different times in history, was under the influence of four major religions. Hindu, Bhuddhist, Jain and Muslim. Both political powers and religious influences enriched the culture and created edifices leaving their mark on the architecture of Junagadh.

Junagadh was the capital of the Junagadh State under the Muslim rulers of Babi Nawabs. In Gujarati, `Junagadh' literally means an ancient fort. The junagadh town is located at the foothills the sacred hill of Girnar and occupies a special place in the history of Gujarat.

There are two fortifications: the fort walls surrounding the town and Uparkot in the west. Uparkot, an ancient citadel located on the higher level of the town, was a stronghold of Mauryans and Gupta Empire and is said tp have survived 16 sieges in the last 1000 years due to its strategic location and difficult access. The entrance of Uparkot has a fine specimen of Hindu Toran, leading to flat land dotted with archological sites. The major sites are Buddhist caves, Baba Pyara caves (2nd century), Adi-Kadi Vav, Navghan Kuvo and Jami Masjid.

The Buddhist caves are fine examples of rock cut architecture with ornamented pillars, carved entrances, water cisterns, chaitya hall, monastic cells for meditation and chaitya windows. The Khapara-Kodia caves located in the town are also worth visiting.

Adi-kadi Vav and Navghan Kuvo were built by the Chudasama Rajputs and are unique water structures among the numerous step wells of Gujarat. Both these served as sourcesf during teh sieges lasting for years and were essential parts oft he basic need of the hill fort. The Adi-Kadi Vav(15th century) has a long flight of 120 steps leading to water, while the Navghan Kuvo (1260AD) is hewn from soft rock and is 52 meter deep, reached by a circular staircase winding around the shaft.

Jami Mosque was originally a palace of Ranakdevi, converted into a mosque by Muhammad begada to commemorate his victory over Junagadh in 1470 AD. Another interesting artefact from past is `Nilam' canon, brought to Diu from Egypt to fight against the Prortuguese and it was manufactured by the order of Suleyman, the Magnificent, King of Turkey.

The Babi rulers of Junagadh, Nawab Mahobat Khat II (1851-82 AD)undertook the beatification of Junagadh and patronized the construction of several building and urban design projects like Aina Mahal, Circle Chowk with clock tower and Dewan Chowk. Other important buildings of the Nawabi period are Bahauddin College, Manoranjan Guest House, Mahobat Madresa (Narsi Vidya Mandir). The most interesting structures are the maqbaras (musoleums) of the Royal Family. The group of maqbaras represent the creative and eclectic phase of Nawabi architecture of Junagadh (1878-1911 AD). All the architectural elements are phase of Nawabi architecture of Junagadh (1878-1911 AD). All the architectural elements are highly decorative and remind one, of the last phase of architecture of Lucknow.

The 14 rock edicts (257-56 BC) of the great Emperor Ashoka, inscribed on a huge stone in Pali script, inscrption by King Rudradaman (150 AD) and Skandagupta (456 AD) are the proof of importance of Junagadh from ancient times. The city was home to one of the great poets of India, Narsinh Mehta (15th century). He was an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna, a scholar, philosopher and a social reformer. The `Narsinha Mehta no Choro' near Najewadi Gate was a platform for his religious discouses and Bhajans. Other places to be visited are the Sakkarbag Zoo, Welingodn Dam, Damodar Kund, Bhavnath Temple, city Rajmahal and Darbar Hall Museum. Girnar is a sacred hill with five peaks visited by millions of Hindus and Jains. The Mahashivratri fair held here is attended by naga sadhus and pilgrims from all over India.

Excursions in Junagadh
Gir National Park (the only home of Asiatic Lions)60 km, Prabhas patan-Somnath (one of eh twelve most sacred Shiva Shrines)79km, Chorwad (a delightful resort on the beach) 72 km.

Junagadh Travel Information

By Air:
Nearest Airport is Keshod (40km), Porbandar(113 km)

By Train:
Railway Station of Ahmedabad-Junagadh and Rajkot-Junagadh line

By Road:
Rajkot(102km),Porbandar(113 km), Ahmedabad (327 km)

Local transport:
Non-Metered Autorickshaws and Local buses.
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