Khajuraho - The city of Erotic Sculptures

Situated in the historic Bundel Khand region of Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho is famous world over for the temple art forms of early medieval period. Khajuraho is home to a massive complex of world famous Hindu and Jain temple, built during the 900 AD to 1000 AD by Chandela rulers. The Chandelas were renowned for their love of art and luxury and gifted to the world some of the best sculpted images.

Initially there were 85 temples, but now only 22 temples have left, describing the splendour of that period. The intricately done temple carvings are highly erotic and sensual attempting to depict in pure form a whole range of human emotions and relationships.

Khajuraho is well connected by air, rail and road. So one can easily reach the town and enjoy a fine glimpse of the era gone by. For accommodation plenty of hotels are available ranging from luxury to mid range categories.

Major Attractions
Khajuraho Temples: Temples are of course, the major attractions of Kahuraho. The temples of Khajuraho are divided into three categories, namely Western Group, Eastern Group and Southern Group. The Western Group temples are the largest, precise and centrally located. The Eastern Group temples comprise of five separated sub-groups in and around the present village of Khajuraho. While, the Southern Group temples are located at some distance.

Kandariya Mahadeo Temple (Western Group): Kandariya Mahadeo is the biggest and most typical of Khajuraho temples. The temple rises to a height of 31 metres from the ground and around 900 statues, most of them in erotic postures could be seen in the temple. The deity worshipped in this temple is Lord Shiva.

Chaunsat Yogini Temple ( Western Group): Chaunsat Yogini Temple is the only temple of Khajuraho made of granite. Here the deity worshipped is goddess Kali. Unfortunately, no any image of goddess Kali could survive the adverse condition. Besides, only 35 of the original 65 cells have remained intact.

Chitragupta Temple (Western Group): Facing eastwards to the rising sun, Chitragupta Temple is dedicated to the sun-god, Surya. The inner sanctum houses a very attractive image of the Sun God. In addition, there are numerous beautiful images on the walls depicting royal processions, group dances and other scenes of sheer luxury.

Parsvanath Temple (Eastern Group): One of the finest of sculpted Khajuraho temples, Parsvanath Temple is the largest Jain temple of the place. Originally dedicated to Adinath, Saint Parsvanath is now worshipped in the temple. The art forms of the temple are very beautiful and sensitive, but don’t have sexual motifs. The sculptures on the temple walls have an amazing depiction of everyday activity of that period.


Adinatha Temple (Eastern Group): Adinatha is the last of Jain temples in Khajuraho. The temple walls have some of the most attractive sculptures of yakshis among others.

Duladeo Temple (Southern Group): Duladeo Temple is one of the most attractive temples of the southern group in Khajuraho. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has a number of sensuous images of the Apsaras (heaven women) and a few other exquisite sculptures.

Pandav Falls (30 km): The picturesque Pandav Falls lies at a distance of 30 kms from Khajuraho. Falling down to the Ken River from great heights, the sight of the falls is really breathtaking. It is believed that the Pandavas spent some years of their exile here and hence it had been named as Pandav Falls.

Panna National Park (40 km): Situated at a distance of 40 kms from Khajuraho, Panna National Park is home a wide variety of fauna. Here you can spot antelopes, chinkaras, sambars and boars. If you are lucky enough, you can have a glimpse of the elusive tiger. Many varieties of bird species can also be spotted in Panna National Park.

Dhubela Museum (64 km): Dhubela Museum is located at a distance of 64 kms from Khajuraho. The museum has an impressive collection of garments, weapons and paintings belonging to the Bundela rulers. The museum also has some sculptures belonging to the Shakti cult.

Manali - A Quaint Hill Town in Himachal

Quick Facts
Situated in: Himachal Pradesh.
Major Attractions: Hadimba Temple, Tibetan Monastery, Manali Club House and Mountaineering Institute
Suitable Time To Visit: November to March.

Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali is a quaint hill town, located 40 kms north of Kullu Valley. Perched 1928 m, above the sea level, Manali is a perfect destination for discerning travellers and adventure seekers. Earlier, Manali was a village called ‘Dana Agha’, even today traces of that period can be found in the town.

Set along the banks of Beas River, Manali abounds with natural gifts like beautiful landscape, pine and deodar forests, snow-capped peaks, steep cliffs, rolling valleys, adventure and mystery. Besides these, the lush meadows of wild flowers and fragrant fruit orchard in full bloom, add more charm to the hill resort.

Manali can be easily reached by road, bus services to important cities of North India are available. Kullu Airport is the nearest airport, while Shimla and Chandigarh are nearest railheads. Accommodations in all range are available, from five star to budget hotels.


Major Attractions in Manali
Hadimba Temple: Hadimba Temple also called Dhungri Temple has historic as well as archaeological importance. One can reach this temple on foot or by hiring cars or taxis that ply along the Bipasha and take you to the temple gate. Dedicated to goddess Hadimba, the temple was built by Maharaja Bahadur Singh in 1553. The 27 metre high temple is made of wood and has four-tiered pagoda type roof and the well-decorated front gate which comprises the images and symbols.

Tibetan Monastery: Tibetan Monastery is another major attraction of the town. The monastery has a good collection of Tibetan paintings and handicrafts.

Gadhan Takechokling Gumfa: Located next to Tibetan Monastery, Gadhan Takechokling Gumfa was constructed in 1969. The cave has an idol of Shakyamuni.

Manali Mountaineering Institute: Manali Mountaineering Institute offers basic and advance training courses for adventure sports like mountaineering, trekking, skiing and plenty of water sports. Skiing and trekking equipments can be hired here by advance booking.

Manali Club House: Manali Club House lies 2 km from the main town on the left bank of Manalsu Nallah. Around the Club House there are fine spots for picnic, where you can pass a good time. Cultural events are also organized in the auditorium of Club House.

Manu Temple: Just 3 kms from the main market in Old Manali, there is a temple dedicated to Manu Rishi, the creator of human race on the earth.

Solang Valley (13 km): Solang Valley is situated between Solang village and Beas Kund. The picturesque valley has some fine ski slopes, where you can undertake the adventure sports. For adventure seekers there is also a Ski lift here for skiing training. The winter skiing festival is also organized at Solang Valley.

Rahala Waterfalls (16 kms): Rahala Water Falls is located 16 kms away on way to Rohtang Pass. The water fall is famous as a picnic spot.

Rohtang Pass (51 kms): Rohtang Pass is situated on Keylong - Leh Highway at an altitude of 3,979 mts. A gateway to Lahaul, Spiti, Pangi and Leh Valley, Rohtang Pass remains open from during summers, from June to October. From Rohtang Pass you can enjoy spectacular view of glaciers, peaks and the Chandra River flowing down in the Lahaul valley. Close to Rohtang Pass are the twin peaks of Geypan.

Adventure in Manali: Adventure seekers can enjoy adventure sports like jeep safari, mountaineering and snow skiing

Darjeeling

Quick Facts
Situated in: West Bengal
Also Known As: Queen of Hill Stations
Major Attractions: Ghoom Monastery, Dhirdham Temple, Tiger Hills, Bhutia Busti, Observatory Hill, Zoological Garden, Natural History Museum
Suitable Time to Visit: March to May and September to November

Darjeeling, one of the most popular hill stations of India and the world alike is situated in West Bengal. The hill station is about 680 km from the state capital city Kolkata, 80 km from Siliguri and 150 km from Kishanganj in Bihar. Located at a height of 2,134 metres above the sea level, close to the Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bhutan borders, Darjeeling draws discerning travellers, honeymooners and adventure seekers from across the globe.

Nature has blessed Darjeeling with unmatched beauty and one can experience the nature at its best here. Flanked by snow capped Himalayan mountain ranges, Darjeeling abounds with fresh invigorating hill air, lush green tea plantations, exciting trekking trails, spectacular sunrise and sunset views, rich and varied fauna. Besides, the live hearted locals welcome visitors with their open arms and offer warm hospitality.

As Darjeeling is located at very high altitude so the climate remains cold most of year, especially during winters when the temperature falls below 0 degree. Temperatures in summer remain in the range of 15-20 degrees. Don’t forget to carry sufficient warm clothes to prevent yourself from the chilly weather.

Besides being a famous hill station, Darjeeling offers excellent shopping opportunities.
Darjeeling is a nice place to buy decorative items, thangkas, brass statues, religious objects, jewellery, wood carving, woven fabrics and carpets. Main shopping areas are Chowrasta and Nehru Road.

Bagdogda Airport (100 km) is the nearest airport, served by several flights from Delhi and Kolkata. From the airport, taxis are available for Darjeeling. New Jalpaiguri Railway Station at a distance of 90 km is the major railhead close to Darjeeling. The toy train connects New Jalpaiguri with Darjeeling, the journey takes approximately 8 hours. Jeep services are available to Darjeeling from Silguri and New Jalpaiguri at regular intervals.

Plenty of accommodation options are available in Darjeeling. There are several good hotels, lodges and guest houses in the budget and mid-range categories.

Major Attractions in Darjeeling
Ghoom Monastery: Any trip to Darjeeling usually begins with the Ghoom Monastery. Set at an altitude of 2,410 mtrs, Ghoom offers magnificent views of Darjeeling town. Ghoom Monastery has collection of rare handwritten Buddhist manuscripts and it also houses a massive statue of Maitreya Buddha.

Dhirdham Temple: Situated in the heart of Darjeeling town, Dhirdham Temple attracts tourists in large number. The temple is known for its architecture which is similar to the famous Pashupatinath Temple of Kathmandu.

Tiger Hills: Perched at an elevation of 2,590 metres above the sea level, Tiger Hills offers splendid views of the sunrise. Tourists throng the Tiger Hill in early morning to have a glimpse of the spectacular sunrise. From the hills, one can also enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped Mt. Kanchenjunga.

Bhutia Busti: Bhutia Busti is a beautiful Gompa (monastery) located at the backdrop of the Mt. Kanchenjunga. The tastefully decorated Gompa has a fine collection of Buddhist texts in its library. A branch of the Nyingmapa sect's Phodang Monastery in Sikkim, the Gompa also has a copy of the Tibetan Book of the Dead in its library.

Observatory Hill: The Observatory Hill offers magnificent views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and the beautiful landscape below. On the hill there are some temples and monasteries, which deserve a visit.

Zoological Garden: Zoological Garden is situated on the outskirts of Darjeeling. The zoo houses some rare varieties of Himalayan flora and fauna species, including the Siberian Tigers. The rare Red Panda is another attraction of the zoo. One can see Snow Leopards, Great Grey Birds and Snow Yaks in the zoo.

Natural History Museum: A must visit place in Darjeeling, the Natural History Museum has an impressive collection of over 4,300 specimen. The museum has a rich collection of fauna found in the Himalayas and in West Bengal region. Visitors can see a fine collection of butterflies, estaurine crocodile and mineral forms of various stones.

Bangalore - The High-tech City of India

Quick Facts
Situated in: Karnataka
Popular As : Capital City of Karnataka, Pub City of India, High Tech City of India
Major Attractions: Lalbagh Garden, Cubbon Park, Government Museum, Technological and Insdustrial Museum, Vidhana Soudha, Bangalore Fort, Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace, Bull Temple etc.
Suitable Time To Visit: October to March

Bangalore also called the ‘high-tech city of India’ is the capital Karnataka state. Founded in the early 16th century, Bangalore became an important fortress city under Mysore rulers Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. The fifth largest city of India, Bangalore now presents a fine blend of old and new, through its colonial buildings and modern high rising buildings. Bangalore serves a base for many global companies and abounds with massive office complexes, swanky shopping malls and arcades.

Of course, today Bangalore is a bustling capital city but it still remains one of pleasantest cities of India. Situated about 1,000 mts above sea level, Bangalore enjoys a pleasant climate round the years and draws tourists as well as business travellers from across the globe. With beautifully laid out parks, lush green gardens and wide tree-lined avenues, Bangalore promises a memorable vacation. Besides, the thrilling pub culture and score of eating joints add more charm.

One of the frequented destinations of India, Bangalore is easily accessible by air, rail and road. For accommodation, Bangalore offers a wide range of options, from five star to budget hotels. For discerning shopper's Bangalore is a paradise. Traditional buys of Bangalore include silks, jewellery, sandalwood, agarbatties, antiques etc.

Major Attractions in Bangalore
Lalbagh Garden: Lalbagh Garden is famous park and situated in the southern part of the city. A beautiful old bark, Lalbagh was founded in the 18th century by Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan. Some of the park attractions are centuries-old trees, lakes, lotus ponds, flower beds and a deer park. Besides, Lalbagh has one of the largest collections of tropical and sub-tropical plants in India.

Cubbon Park: Cubbon Park was laid out in 1864 and is full of flowering trees spreading over an area of 120 hectares. The the park area one can see the red Gothic building which houses the Public Library, the High Court, the Government Museum and the Technological and Industrial Museum.

Government Museum: Situated on Kasturba road, Government Museum is one of the oldest museums in India. Established in 1886, the museum has sections on geology, art, numismatics and relics from Mohenjodaro (one of the cradles of Indian civilisation), dating back to 5000 years.

Technological and Industrial Museum: This museum is also situated on Kasturba road close to the Government Museum. The theme of the museum is the application of science of technology to industry and human welfare. The museum is open daily between 10 am to 5 pm (close on Mondays and public holidays).

Vidhana Soudha: Considered one of the most spectacular buildings of the city and the country alike, Vidhana Soudha houses both the Secretariat and the State Legislature. The building is built of granite in the neo-Dravidian style of architecture. Major attraction of the building is the cabinet room, which is known for its huge door made of sandalwood. Visitors are allowed to Vidhana Soudha only after 5.30 pm and prior permission must be obtained to see the interior.

Bangalore Fort: Bangalore Fort is located on Krishnarajendra road close to the city market. Built in 1537 by Kampegowda, the fort was originally a mud-brick structure. In the 18th century it was rebuilt by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan but much of the fort was destroyed during the wars with the British. Today the fort is mostly in ruins but it deserves a visit, and you would be missing little if you left it out of your itinerary.

Bull Temple: Bull Temple, one of the oldest temples of Bangalore, lies on Bugle Hill at the end of Bull Temple Road. Built by Kempegowda in the Dravidian architectural style, the temple contains a huge monolith of Nandi. Non-Hindus are allowed inside the Bull temple and priests are very friendly.

Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace: Situated on Albert Victor Road, this palace was started by Hyder Ali and later completed by his son Tipu in 1791. Adjacent to this massive palace there is an interesting temple.

Kolkata - The Cultural Capital of India

Quick Facts

Situated at: West Bengal
Also Known As: Capital of West Bengal, Cultural Capital of India, City of Joy
Major Attractions : Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Birla Planetarium, Indian Museum, Eden Garden, Zoological Garden, Dalhousie Square, St.Paul's Cathedral, Nakhoda Mosque and Sunderbans.
Suitable Season To Visit: October to April

Previously known as Calcutta, Kolkata is the capital of West Bengal state. Set on the banks of the River Hoogly, Kolkata is one of the four metropolitan cities of India. Kolkata has also served as the capital of India during the British rule till 1911 and even one can see the colonial imprints on streets of the city. Fondly referred to as the ‘Cultural Capital of India’, Kolkata is famous for its old culture and traditions, delectable Bengali cuisines and colourful festivals. Kolkata is also famous for its dazzling markets, where shoppers can buy shoes, clothes and several other items at reasonable rate.

Kolkata is well-connected by air, rail and road with important places of West Bengal and rest of the country. For accommodation the hotel has numerous hotels ranging from five stars to economic hotels. Also called the city of joy and offers a lot to please the visitors.


Some of the tourist attractions of the city are:
Victoria Memorial: Victoria Memorial is an elegant edifice built in while-marble. Victoria Memorial was built in the memory of Queen Victoria. Constructed in the year 1921, with an attempt to match the Taj Mahal, Victoria Memorial presents an excellent combination of classical European architecture and Mughal architectural style. The white marble memorial has a fine collection of rare items belonging to the British Raj.

Howrah Bridge: An engineering marvel, Howrah Bridge is a hanging bridge, without any pylon in the river. Hawrah Bridge is the principle landmark of the city, runs over the Hoogly River and connects the Hawrah Junction with the city.

Birla Planetarium: One of the biggest planetariums of Inda, Birla Planetarium is a fine place for entertainment and infotainment. Birla Planetarium hosts regular astronomical shows in Hindi, Bengali and English. Astronomical shows are held on held on all weekday (closed on Mondays).

Indian Museum: Indian Museum was constructed in 1875, in the Italian style of architecture. The museum has six sections for Art, Archeology, Anthropology, Geology, Zoology and Industry (Economic Botany). The museum has a rare collection of antiques including more than 54000 coins, some over 2400 years old.

Eden Garden: Eden Garden one of the biggest cricketing ground of the world is one of the prime attractions of Kolkata. Supposed to be the largest in Asia, Eden Gardens has a seating capacity of more than one lakh spectators.

Alipore Zoological Garden: Alipore Zoological Garden, popularly known as Chidiakhana is situated near the National Library at Belvedre Road. The Chidiakhana is home to Lions, tigers, giraffe and other anima specias. Avian species also live in the zoo.

Dalhousie Square & Writers' Building: Dalhousie Square is the administrative centre of the city, having a lake at its centre. Writer's building is the prime attraction here, which represents rare Gothic-style architecture. Till the mid-19th century, the Writer's building was the place of residence for the junior servants of the East India Company. Presntly the Writers building houses the Secretariat of West Bengal Government.

Fort William: Fort William is one of the most impressive edifices of British Raj in Kolkata. Built of brick-and-mortar in the shape of an irregular octagon, the fort has six gates namely Chowringhee, Plassey, Calcutta, Water gate, St Georges and Treasury Gate. Fort William also has a museum with a fine collection of arms, armours, swords, muskets and machine guns. Now the fort serves as main hub of the Indian army in Eastern India.

Sunderbans Tiger Reserve: Situated at a distance of 112 kms from Kolkata, Sunderbans is World's largest mangrove forests and delta. Sunderbans houses the biggest colony of the Royal Bengal Tigers. The Tiger Reserve also houses Chital Deer, Rhesus Monkey, Ridley Sea Turtle, King Cobra, Rock Python, Crocodiles Water Monitor and several other bird species.

Mumbai - The Entertainment Capital of India

Quick Facts

Situated at: Maharashtra
Also Known As: Capital of Maharashtra, Commercial Capital of India, Entertainment Capital of India
Major Attractions: Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Chowpatty Beach, Jain Temple, Mahalaxmi Temple, Haji Ali Tomb, Prince of Wales Museum etc.
Suitable Season to Visit: October to April


Previously known as Bombay, Mumbai is the capital city of Maharasthra. Fondly referred to as the commercial as well as entertainment capital of India, Mumbai is famous as the home of world’s second largest film industry, ‘Bollywood’. Situated off the west coast of India, Mumbai is the base of numerous big Indian companies and MNC. Mumbai is also home to important finanical institutions such as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE).

Mumbai is considered the most happening city of India and the city never sleeps. The city abounds with late night parties, eating joints and even chaiwallas pedalling along the sea-facing streets. For shoppers Mumbai is a paradise and any trip to the city is incomplete without shopping. You will find everything of daily use that include clothes, shoes, perfumes and cosmetics, gadgets and gizmos, furniture, books etc in the shopping centres of Mumbai. Some of popular shopping markets of Mumbai are Chor Bazaar, Oshiwara Joona-Poorana Market, Zaveri Bazaar, Gandhi Market and Crawford market.

Mumbai is easily accessible by air, train and bus from all over the country. The city is also well-connected to foreign countries by air. For local transport prepaid taxis, city buses, auto-rickshaws and local trains are available. Plenty of accommodation is available in Mumbai ranging from five star hotels to budget hotels. Equipped with the contemporary facilities the hotels of Mumbai provide comfortable stay to guests.

Mumbai offers much more to see and experience to the visitors. It is impossible to sum up all in few words, better you visit the city on your own. Some to the tourist attractions of the city are:

Gateway of India: Mumbai’s principle landmark, Gateway of India is thronged by thousands of visitors everyday. Officially opened in the year 1924, the Gateway of India is known for its exquisite architecture which has been derived from the 16th century Muslim styles of Gujarat.


Marine Drive: Also called Netaji Subhash Road, Marine Drive runs along the shoreline of Back Bay, starting at Nariman Point, passes Chowaptty Beach and runs up to Malabar Hill. One of the Mumbai's most famous attractions, Marine Drive is flanked by the high rising buildings and visited by people mostly in the evening.

Chowpatty Beach: Mumbai's most popular famous beach, Chowpatty Beach draws large number of visitors every day. Here you can indulge yourself in plenty of leisure activities and enjoy Mumbi's popular snack, Bhelpuri and Kulfi ice cream.

Jain Temple: Dedicated to the first Jain Tirthankar, Adinath the temple was built in 1904. The marble temple is constructed on the lines of typical modern Jain temples, i.e. the mirrored style.

Haji Ali Tomb: Haji Ali Tomb is dedicated to a Muslim Saint who was drowned here and attracts people of all religion in addition to Muslims. You can reach the tomb buildings by a long causeway which can only be crossed at low tide.

Prince of Wales Museum: Prince of Wales Museum also called the Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastusangrahalaya was built in 1905 to commemorate King George V's first visit to India. The museum has rare collection of miniature paintings, idols and bas reliefs from the Elephanta Caves, Buddha images and models of the Parsi Towers of Silence. The museum is open from 10.15 am to 6 pm, all weekdays (closed on Mondays).

Elephanta Caves: A short ferry ride from the Mumbai Harbour takes you to the Elephanta Island, the home to 7th century rock-cut temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. A World Heritage Site, Elephanta Caves houses the Maheshamurti, a three-headed sculpture of Shiva the main central cave, resplendent in all his forms namely the creator, preserver and destroyer. Apart from this, the cave also has delicately-carved panels depicting the life of Lord Shiva.

Indian Tourism Offices in Foriegn Countries

For providing essential assistance to Indian tourists, visiting various parts of the world, the Tourism Department of Government of India has set up Tourism offices across the world. Outbound tourists can contact the respective tourist offices of the country for any kind of assistance. Below is the list of Tourism Offices of India in alphabetical order, situated in various countries.

Argentina
950-Cordoba Avenue,
9th Floor 'A' 1054,
Buenos Aires,
Argentina

Australia (Sydney)
Level 2, Piccadilly,
210 Pitt Street, Sydney,
NWS-2000

Canada (Toronto)
60, Bloor street (West) Suite 1003,
Toronto,
Onlario M4 W3B 8

France (Paris)
11-13 Bis Boulevard Hausmann,
75008 Paris,

Germany (Frankfurt)
Baseler Strasse-48,
60329, Frankfurt,
AM-MAIN-10

Israel (Tel Aviv)
C/O Indian Embassy 4,
Kolfman Street
Tel Aviv

Italy(Milan)
Via-Albricci 9,
21022 Milan

Japan (Tokyo)
Pearl Buliding 7-9-18-Ginza, Chuo-ku,
Tokyo 104
Netherlands (Amsterdam)
Rokin 9-15 1022
KK Amsterdam

Russia (Moscow)
C/O Embassy of India Moscow

Singapore
20 Kramat Lane, #01-OIA
United House

South Africa (Johannesburg)
PO Box No: 412452, Craig Hall 2024,
South Africa

Spain (Madrid)
Avenida Plo XII 30-32
Madrid 28016

Sweden (Stockholm)
Sveavagen 9-11 S-II 157
Stockholm

UAE (Dubai)
Post Box 12856, NASA Building,
AL Maktoum Road, Deira,
Dubai

UK (London)
7,Cork Street London WIX 2LN

USA (Los Angeles)
3550 Wishire Boulevard,
Room 204, Los Angeles
California 90010

USA (New York)
Suite 1808 1270,
Avenue of Americas New York,
NY-10020.

God’s own country, Kerala celebrates Onam

God’s own country, Kerala is known all over the world for its unparalleled beauty. With its internationally renowned beaches, tranquil backwaters, picturesque hill stations, rich and varied wildlife and historic monuments, Kerala draws visitors from every nook and corner of the globe. Besides, the South Indian state is equally famous for its colourful festivals and traditional snake boat races. Among the festivals, Onam is the most important and the biggest festival of Kerala. In fact, due to popularity of Onam, the Government of India announced it as a national festival of Kerala in the year 1961.

An annual harvest festival, Onam begins today (September 12) with traditional gaiety and enthusiasm. People of all ages from children to elders celebrate the festival in the traditional way. Onam is one of the most important festivals for Malayalese community, celebrated in the month of Chingam, the first month of Malayalam calendar, generally falls in August - September. Usually the weather seems very pleasant and soothing during Onam and whole Kerala looks green. Leaving behind the religious boundaries the highly spirited Keralan people come outside their houses to celebrate the harvest festival. Farmers also fell very delighted looking at their yield and they express their happiness in their own way.

Legend has it the Onam festival marks the arrival of legendary King Mahabali in the state. It is believed during the rule of demon King Mahabali, the region of Kerala witnessed a golden era. At that time, everybody in the region was happy and prosperous, and they had deep respect and affection for King Mahabali. However, egoism was one of the major drawbacks of the King Mahabali that eventually ended his reign. Later, for all his good deeds, God granted King Mahabali a boon that he could annually visit his people. Hence, traditionally people of Kerala make all efforts to welcome their dear King and celebrate the festival in a grand way to impress him as well.

According to tradition festivities of Onam lasts for ten days and during this period best of Kerala’s culture and tradition can be observed. Ten days of Onam carnival have been named as Atham (Day 1), Chithira (Day 2), Chodhi (Day 3), Visakam (Day 4), Anizham (Day 5), Thriketa (Day 6), Moolam (Day 7), Pooradam (Day 8), Utharadam (Day 9) and Thiruvonam (Day 10).

Of the ten days, first day Atham and the tenth day Thiruvonam are considered the most important. But in some part of Kerala, ninth day Utharadam is also regarded important from the celebrations point of view. Each day of the Onam is celebrated according to set rituals and traditions by the people of the state.

During the Onam carnival Keralan people remain in complete funny mood and they don’t wish to miss single minute of merriment. Some of the major highlights of Onam include exquisitely decorated Pookalam (Rangoli) with flowers and colours, ambrosial Onasadya, extraordinary Kaikottikali dance and entertaining Snake Boat Race.

Onasadya is the most exciting part of Onam celebrations, which is prepared on Thiruvonam, the tenth day of carnival. The grand feast, Onasady is a nine course meal comprised of 11 to 13 essential dishes. After preparation Onadadya is served on banana leaves and people sit on a mat laid on the ground to enjoy the delectable meal.

Snake Boat Race is another thrilling feature of Onam, which takes place on the river Pampa. Numerous colourfully decorated boats competing with each other in the boat race and enthral the crowd.

Sunderbans the home of Royal Bengal Tigers.

Sunderbans, one of largest delta of world is famous as home to Royal Bengal Tiger. Spread over an area of 1,330 sq. km of swamp and mangrove forests, Sunderbans is nothing less than a paradise for nature lovers. Sunderbans' strategic geographical location provides it one of the most unique ecosystems of the world.

In fact, Sunderbans is often compared to the Amazon basin for its biodiversity. The tiger reserve encompasses both land and water and the delta is formed by the meeting of three rivers – the Brahmaputra and Ganges in India and Meghna in Bangladesh. When sailing through the mangrove forests, you will realise that you have reached the sea and there is no sign of land anywhere.

Sunderbans mainly comprises of three islands namely Sandeshkali, Basanti and Goasaba. These three island constitute the northern boundary of the mangrove forest, while the southern side is flanked by the Bay of Bengal. To the west lies the Malta and Bidya rivers, while Bangladesh lies to the east.

The beauty of the fairytale-ish forests unveil as you penetrate deeper and deeper. Within a short while, most probably you will catch a glimpse of the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. Sanjekhali Sanctuary situated at the junction of Peechkhali and the Gomti river is home to the King of the jungle.

The Mangrove Interpretation Centre is a must visit spot in the Sanjeckhali region, The centre houses the various facets of the mangrove forests and make people aware of the requirement to conserve them. The temple of Bon Bibi, the goddess of the forest is another place that deserves a visit.

Sudhankhali Watch Tower, located deep within the Reserve Forest Area is the perfect place to view wildlife. Most wild animals visit the nearby sweet water pond to quench their thirst. If you are lucky enough, you may even spot the tiger. In addition to tigers, you can spot other wild animals such as monkeys, deer, Olive Ridley turtle, a wide variety of fish, red fiddler crabs, hermit crabs, humongous crocodiles etc. Sunderbans is also home to avian species such as kingfishers, plovers, lap wings, white bellied sea eagles, sandpipers, whimbrels, pelicans, curfews and many other species.

Getting Sunderbans

Kolkata is the nearest airport from Sunderbans. River cruise is the best way to reach Sunderbans from Kolkata. You can reach the nearest town Canning and hire a motor launch to reserve. The river cruise will allow you to witness rural life of Bengal and also to enjoy the nature at its best. Foreign nationals require permits from the Secretary, West Bengal Forest Department to travel to the tiger reserve.

Where to Stay

Numerous accommodation options are available at Sunderbans, that include Sundar Chital Tourist Lodge, Sunderban Tiger Camp. Bali Island and Vivada cruises.

Golden Chariot - Karnataka's first luxury train

A journey aboard on luxury train has always been a fascinating experience. However, if you get a chance to spend a week long vacation on train the adventure increases many fold. Palace on Wheels, Deccan Odyssey, and Heritage on Wheels are such trains which offer the luxurious journey. The Golden Chariot is the latest addition in the list of India’s luxury trains.

Introduced by KSTDC (Karnataka Tourism Department) few months back, the luxury train has become very much popular among the tourists. Named after the popular stone chariot in Hampi, in South India the train travels trough historic heritage sites, magnificent palaces, rich and varied wildlife and golden beaches of Goa. The Golden Chariot’s 7 Nights / 8 Days journey starts every Monday from Karnataka’s capital city Bangalore and finally ends at Bangalore as well.

On your journey you will traverse through Mysore, visiting Srirangapatna, Mysore Palace, Nagarhole National Park (Kabini) and the historical sites of Shravanabelagola. Further you visit Belur-the 11th century cradle of Hoysala architecture and a world heritage site, Halebidu, Hamp. Thereafter you enter into the triangular heritage site of Badami, Pattadakal, Aihole, and finally reach the Golden Beaches of Goa before coming back to Bangalore.

Golden Chariot Journey Details
Places Covered : Bangalore - Mysore - Kabini - Hassan - Hospet - Gadag - Goa - Bangalore

Duration : 07 Nights / 08 Days

Facilities in the Golden Chariot
Golden Chariot is equipped with all the contemporary luxurious amenities, you will yourself like Maharaja. In fact, while traveling you get a wonderful chance to experience the royalty of the bygone era. Highlights of the train are :

Coaches – Each coach of the train has been named after the dynasties that ruled Karnataka. The coaches have been named as Kadamba, Hoysala, Rastrakota, Ganga, Chalukya, Bhahamani, Adhilshahi, Sangama, Shathavashna, Yudukula and Vijayanagar. Every coach has fully air-conditioned 26 twin beds, 17 double bed cabins and 1 cabin for the physically challenged.

Each cabin is equipped with Wi-Fi, LCD television, DVD with 6 satellite channels, wardrobe, vanity/writing desk and private bathroom with luxurious amenities and accessories. The chambers in which you travel narrate tales of the Mysore Maharajas. Admire the intricate carvings on the ceiling, the wall panels and furniture inspired by Mysore and Hoysala architecture.

Restaurants – The Golden Chariot has two restaurants namely Nala and Ruchi serving a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies. Enjoy the culinary delights of South India in 4-seater and 2-seater dining cabins amidst the interiors inspired by the timeless aesthetics of Hampi and Halebid.

Madira (Lounge Bar) – Madira the lounge bar aboard serve invigorating range of spirits alongwith life performance of local artisans. Order the liquor of your choice and relax in the bar, enjoying the soothing music in the royal interiors modeled after the Mysore Palace.

Conference Coach – Conference Coach can accommodate 30 persons and is equipped with 42 inch LCD television and high-speed internet surfing area.

Gym Coach – Gym Coach has fully equipped gymnasium, and ayurveda and spa centre as well. While on board discover age old traditions and cures to modern day stress. The coach has two massage rooms for exhilarating rejuvenation experience. For those who prefer a local flavour - Ayurveda massages are provided.