Incredible India - Agra the 'City of Taj'

Agra - the city of world famous Taj Mahal

Fast Fact

Location: Located on the banks of Yamuna River, Agra in Uttar Pradesh

Distance: 210 kms from Delhi

Best Road: Yamuna Expressway (approx 2.5 hours drive)

Altitude: 169 metres/ 554 feet above sea level (NA)
Best time to visit: Agra can get unbearably hot, so the best time to visit Agra is during winters between October and February.

Overview of Agra

Agra. The word conjures a romantic image of the Taj Mahal created by Emperor Shah Jehan in memorandum of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Agra is the epitome of a cultural city, with many historical relics beginning from the Persian to the Mughal era. Interwoven with tombs, a trip to Agra is a treat, not just to your eyes, but to your senses as well. But hidden behind these beautiful monuments is a thriving industrial city getting richer by the day. Agra could just as well be a Mecca for shop-a-holics with marble artefacts, leather goods and silk fabrics available at dearth cheap rates. 

How to reach Agra

Agra is well connected by air, rail and road. Depending on your pocket and time, you can choose from a range of options available to you. Recently Jaypee Group has constructed Yamuna Expressway between Delhi which has reduced the distance and driving time as well. 

By Air: Agra Airport, located in Kheria is well connected to Delhi and Jaipur. From Kheria, you need to take a cab to get to Agra, which is about 6 kms away.

By Rail: Bhopal Shatabdi Express connects Delhi with Agra, which takes around 2 hours. Agra has 3 railway stations: 

Agra Cantonment (AGC) – is the main railway station in Agra and most of the trains stop here. Taxis, cabs, autos and cycle rickshaws are easily available from here. 

Agra Fort Railway Station (AF) – has some interstate express trains and some east-bound trains passing it.

Raja Ki Mandi (RKM) – is a small station with a laid back and relaxed attitude. Otherwise quiet and un-happening, RKM springs to life whenever the Intercity Express or the Taj Express trains arrive at the station. 

By Road - The best thing about going to Agra is the recently started Yamuna Expressway, which takes about 2.5 hours from Delhi to Agra. Although the one way toll tax for Yamuna Expressway is Rs. 320 and Rs. 510 for round trip the driving on Yamuna Expressway is amazing experience. Take Kalindi Kunj - Sarita Vihar road and proceed onto Greater NOIDA Expressway from Mahamaya Flyover. After driving for 30 kilometers you will see the signboard for Yamuna Expressway. The drive for next 165 kilometeres will remain full of amusement. Be careful and enjoy a pleasant trip to city of Taj Agra. 

What to carry?
Agra is pretty self sufficient, however you may want to carry your own battery cells for your camera and film rolls. Though available, they cost a bomb in Agra. Also, smokers should carry their own cigarettes. Most of the cigarettes available in Agra are fake and you don’t want a sore throat smoking the wrong cigarettes. 

What to wear?
Agra is predominantly a hot city and remains so almost throughout the year except for winters, when it becomes exceptionally cold. Carry light cottons between March – September and woollens between October – February. Also, foreigners are accepted as they are – the cultural difference is perhaps well taken in by the locals. But if you are an Indian, you will be under the scrutiny of the locals about the way you look, you talk and the clothes you wear. Be prepared to be judged upon, leered at and commented on.

Recommendation (what kind of travellers / tourists?)

Agra is a safe city and ok for all sorts of travellers from single women travellers, to families and back packers.  However, beware of touts who might pester you with the ‘best’ and ‘cheap’ hotels and promise you with the best place to buy souvenirs from. Be warned: rickshaw pullers and auto drivers will haunt you to board their vehicles for a ride within the city and taxi drivers will rob you poor. Though the places to see in Agra are pretty close by, you can book an auto for the entire day or if you enjoy the luxuries of life, you can hire an air conditioned cab as well. 

Getting Around in Agra

Small as it is, Agra is pretty easily navigable. Fatehabad Road is a central road around which, most of the hotels are located. From there, rickshaws, autos and cabs are readily available. Walking might not be your favourite thing especially during summers, but in winters walking down the mist covered roads of Agra and surrounded by green leafy tress can turn out to be pretty romantic.

Must See in Agra

What is a tour to Agra without a beautiful moonlit night with your beloved by your side? Well, actually only a lucky few can do it. Taj Mahal is open to public only on full moon nights, barring which; entry is closed after 6:30 pm every day. Nevertheless, it is amazing to witness the monument of love with its sprawling gardens in the typical Mughal style. Akbar’s Fort, Itmat-ud-Daula and Bara Imambara are some of the other things that you cannot miss in Agra. Equally important is a visit to Taj Ganj, earlier known as Mumtazabad, which was created to provide accommodation to the lakhs of people who made the Taj Mahal. You may still see some of the original constructions in Taj Ganj, with a terrace offering a view of the Taj Mahal. 

Must Do / Must Experience in Agra

An Agra trip is not complete if you have not ridden a horse chariot to the Taj Mahal. There are numerous ‘tanga-wallas’ along the east gate of the Taj Mahal and a clobbering ride to the Taj Mahal might bring you close to the regal lifestyle led by the Mughal rulers. 

The view of the Taj Mahal from across the Yamuna River is simply wonderful. It is said that against the setting sun, the Taj Mhaal looks its best from here. 

Feel the cultural essence of Agra with an evening dedicated to the performing arts of Agra – Braj Rasila, Charukala and Rasiya. Braj Rasila is a theatrical form associated with the life of Lord Krishna, whereas Charkula is a traditional folk dance of Braj, where a female dancer balances a column of lighted ‘diyas’ over her head while dancing. Rasiya is a rich tradition of folksongs that is found in the Braj area of the Agra region. Rasiya songs describe the love of the divine couple Radha and Shri Krishna.  

Shopping in Agra

Shopping. Yes, besides touring the monuments, an important agenda in your Agra trip should be shopping. Agra is a shopping hub for marbles, leatherwork, crafts, Zardosi thread work and Panchi Petha and Dalmoth. Visit the local factories for excellent leather buys – wallet, shoes, jackets and belts. There are extensive marble shops from where you can select high quality marble work for your house fittings and souvenir shops selling beautiful marble carvings, tables, mirror frames etc. Zardosi is a unique 3 dimensional thread work that originated in Agra during the Mughal reign and has held on till today. Shop for beautiful Zardosi wall hangings, table cloth and cushion covers in Agra. The Agra State Emporium is a good place to shop for silk ‘sarees’ and ‘dupatta’. It is said that the real silk used is so fine, that it can pass through your finger ring! So better check before you splurge! You cannot return without the famous Panchi Petha, a sweet typical to Agra. Originally white, the Panchi  Petha is quite a favourite with the locals. However, flavoured pethas are readily available these days. ‘Dalmoth’ is a savoury snack popular in Agra. 

Eating (Food) in Agra

Like any other tourist place, Agra has a mix of everything – Indian, Chinese, Mughlai and Continental. You can try Mughlai food - that will be the closest to any authentic food that you will get there. The dhabas are the best place to try Mughlai cuisines, however keep hygiene in mind. By and large, all the hotels have their own restaurants and they serve buffet and a la carte meals. 

Nightlife in Agra

There is not much of nightlife in Agra. However, some of the 4 star and 5 star hotels have pubs and discotheques. 

Events / Festivals in Agra

Agra and its neighbouring areas are largely influenced by its proximity to Mathura and Vrindavan, associated with lord Krishna and his consort Radha. Most of the fairs and festivals organized in the region are either temple festivals, religious festivals or cattle and village fairs based on Krishna's life such as Dauji ka mela, Kans Lila, cattle fair Jat Devi, cattle fair Kund Mela, cattle fair Gwal Balba, Meta ki Puja Jat Devi, Holi Milap, Mata-ka-mela, Shitla Mela, Parikrama of Shivji, Kailash Mela, Janamashthmi, Dussehra, Kali-ka-mela, Ram lila, Urs Sufi Sahib and Bateshwar cattle fair.

Some of the larger festivals, celebrated with much fan fare is the Taj Mahotsav organized annually for ten days during February. Enjoy extensive display of arts, crafts and culture along with classical dance and song performances. 'Mushairas' and 'Ghazal' programmes by well-known Indian artists, camels and elephant rides and a wild fiesta of Indian cuisines, dance, music, arts and crafts make it a mahotsav in the real sense. 

Ram Barat is a special marriage procession of Shri Ram, a festival that precedes Dusshera. Kailash Fair is organised at the Kailash Temple about 12 km from Agra. The fair is celebrated to commemorate the appearance of Lord Shiva in the form of a stone lingam here in the monsoon months of August and September.

Excursions from Agra

Fatehpur Sikri, about 40 km from Agra is an ideal excursion. Made of red sandstone, Fatehpur Sikri was founded by Emperor Akbar in 1571 to honour the Sufi mystic Sheikh Salim Chishti who had predicted the birth of a son to the ruler. Fatehpur Sikri boasts of magnificent architecture in the form of arches, courtyards and buildings that indicate a Persian ancestry and yet it is a synthesis of Hindu and Islamic architecture, giving credence to the religious tolerance of the emperor. The Buland Darwaza, the Panch Mahal, the Jama Masjid Mosque, the palace of Maryamuzzamani, Birbal Bhawan and the life-size chessboard where courtiers could play the roles of pieces are must-sees!

About 12 km from Agra in a place called Sikandra, lies Akbar’s Tomb, the sandstone and marble covered grave. 

The temples of Mathura (46 km) and Vrindavan, associated with Lord Krishna are of interest to those with a religious bent of mind. Be careful of monkeys and rats in the temple complexes – they are a nuisance and can be totally repelling! Besides the Dwarkadeesh Temple, you can see the Jama Masjid, Govardhan Hill and the Archeological Museum in Mathura. Vrindavan, on the other hand is said to have have house around 400 temples at one point of time. The most popular temples here are Bankey Bihari Temple, Govind Dev Temple and ISKON Temple. 

Top 5 to See / Do in Agra

• Taj Mahal – Revel in the majestic beauty of the Taj Mahal, stroll through the manicured gardens, watch the orange sunset cast a romantic glow on the sloping domes and enjoy the beautiful view of the Yamuna River.

• See other architectural splendours of the Mughal rule – Akbar’s Fort, Idmat-ud-Daula and Bara Imambara. A trip to Fatehpur Sikri or the ‘Ghost Town’ will make you happy.

• Walk through the ancient township of Mumtazbad or Taj Ganj, as is known today to see remnants of the housing colonies built for the masons who built the Taj Mahal.

• Enjoy being an audience to cultural extravaganza - Braj Rasila, Charukala and Rasiya

• Treat yourself with the marvellous marble inlay work, leather goods, Zardosi artefacts from Sadar Bazar. A trip down the lanes of this bazaar takes you to ‘khandani’ artisans making these masterpieces with hands, without the use of any modern equipment. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that each item is hand made and different from the other.  

• Locate ‘Panchi Petha’ outlets across the city and see the colourfully myriad display of the famous Panchi Pethas of Agra. In different flavours, choose from a desi variety like kesar flavoured to something more sophisticated like rose flavoured for those cousins and friends sitting at home. The original (real) 'Panchi Petha' brand pethas outlets are located at Sadar Bazaar and M.G Road or Highway.

Incredible India - Delhi and its tourist attractions

New Delhi - the national capital of India

Overview

New Delhi, the capital of India is an easily accessible destination with flights available from all cities across the country. Many airlines offer cheap air tickets. If you are not keen to make a flight booking to Delhi, you can also make reservations on a train through Indian Railways. Once in Delhi, there are several cheap packages available from budget to luxury, star rated hotels. Public transport in the city is convenient and easily available. There is the Delhi Metro that connects most parts of the city as does a bus network. From Delhi, you can visit several nearby tourist destinations including Agra and Jaipur. Inter state Volvo and luxury sleeper bus services are the best way to reach and bus tickets are easily available. You can also reach these places by booking a train ticket. So if you’re planning to visit Delhi soon, get your flights or trains or bus bookings and accommodation reservations done today.

The National Capital Region (NCR) comprises Delhi, Gurgaon and Noida. Delhi lies on the banks of the River Yamuna, in the Gangetic plains, circumscribed by the Aravali mountains to the south. Delhi has an extreme climate with very hot summers and very cold winters. To get to Delhi, you can make a flight booking after checking airline schedules across different LCCs. Air travel in India has become fairly economical so getting cheap flights should be quite easy. For more information on things to do, events and activities in Delhi, the Delhi Tourism and Transport Development Corporation offers guided sightseeing tours.

Sightseeing in Delhi

When visiting Delhi, tourists can choose from deals for cheap budget or luxury star packages that are readily available from travel agents across the country. Alternatively, you can make an online booking from a trusted travel and tours company. In Delhi, there is plenty to see and do. The main sightseeing hotspots are India Gate, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, Chandni Chowk and Jama Masjid, which is Asia’s largest mosque. Delhi also has a lot of art and culture attached to it with several theatrical groups having their roots in the city. It would be advisable to catch a play or show for a truly unique holiday experience in Delhi.

Nearby Getaways from Delhi

Delhi serves as a gateway to many popular tourist destinations around the city. Most of these places can be easily reached by bus or train. Famed for the famous Taj Mahal, Agra lies three hours away from Delhi. There are regular inter state bus services including luxury AC and sleeper buses plying to Agra so a day trip can be done. Get bus bookings done online or purchase bus tickets at ISBT. Another popular destination from Delhi is Ranthambhore National Park in Rajasthan. Wildlife lovers can take any one of the many trains to Sawai Madhopur. It’s advisable to make reservations in advance as the Indian Railways sees heavy tourist traffic on this route during season time.

Areawise Tourist Attractions of Delhi


New Delhi: New Delhi, the capital of India, is a large and sprawling city, that when combined with the rest of the National Capital Region (NCR) is one of the largest urban area in the world, the sixth largest in terms of population. New Delhi is known for its education (University of Delhi, IIT Delhi, and AIMS), culture, handicrafts, 5-star hotels, numerous monuments, historical landmarks, the Parliament, India Gate, commercial areas, and wide tree lined roads. New Delhi is also known as Lutyens’ Delhi, as it is was planned and built by Sir Edwin Landseer Lutyens from 1912 to 1929, and officially inaugurated in 1939.  

North Delhi: Another important administrative district of Delhi, North Delhi is bounded by the Yamuna River on the East, and the districts of North West Delhi to the North and West, West Delhi to the South-West, Central Delhi to the South, and North East Delhi to the East across the Yamuna. The district is divided into three subdivisions, which are Sadar Bazar, Kotwali, and Civil Lines. Important areas and places in North Delhi include Delhi Gate, Kashmere Gate, Darya Ganj, Model Town, Pitampura, and Delhi University. North Delhi also houses the ISBT (Inter State Bus Terminal), as well as Old Delhi Railway Station.

Central Delhi: The most important administrative district of Delhi is Central Delhi. With delightful architecture, important monuments, wide open roads, lush green gardens, and vibrant alleys, Central Delhi is a must see for all visitors to Delhi. Areas and monuments such as the Connaught Place, Parliament Building, Rashtrapati Bhawan, India Gate, Lodhi Gardens, National Museum, Jantar Mantar, Pragati Maidan, Karol Bagh, Chandni Chowk, and Jamma Masjid all fall under Central Delhi. Apart from all these, some of the best hotels in New Delhi are to be found here, such as The Imperial, Le Meridien, The Oberoi, Taj Palace, and Ambassador Hotel, are all to be found in Central Delhi.

South Delhi: Known as the most posh areas of Delhi, South Delhi houses some of the best hotels, shopping centres, restaurants, historical monuments, and nightspots in Delhi. Important places and monuments include the Qutub Minar, Garden of Five Senses, Vasant Kunj, Safdarjung, Saket, Greater Kailash, Nehru Place, Lajpat Nagar, South Extension, and Mehrauli. Chanakyapuri is also part of South Delhi, and houses most of the embassies and high commissions in India. South Delhi is bounded by South-West Delhi to the West, Dwarka and Gurgaon to the South-West, and Faridabad and Noida to the South-East and East. Some of the important hotels in South Delhi include the Radisson, Ashok, Samrat, and Grand Hyatt. 

Connaught Place: Officially called Rajeev Chowk, Delhi's Connaught Place area is the central business district of the city. With its obvious Victorian architecture, Connaught Place is planned as a big circle in the middle with various radial roads spreading out in all directions. Divided primarily in to Inner Circle and Outer Circle, each partition is known as a block, wherein prominent business houses have their offices along side restaurants and retail chains. Connaught Place is also where Delhi's Palika Bazaar is; a circular underground market famous for shops selling all kinds of electronics and gadgets. The sprawling Central Park built over the Delhi Metro station is another attraction in Connaught Place.

India Gate: The India Gate in Delhi was built in 1921 to commemorate Indian soldiers who died in the First World War. Located on Rajpath, the Amar Jawan Jyoti - flame of the immortal warrior - burns under the monument, marking the tomb of the Unknown Soldier. India Gate is a famous tourist spot in Delhi and in proximity to the Connaught Place area. Especially popular with visitors on the weekends, the roads leading to and around India Gate are flanked by vendors selling everything from postcards to balloons to ice cream. Stop by Delhi’s famous landmark when visiting the city next.

Dhyan Chand National Stadium: Named after the Hockey legend Dhyan Chand (known as the Hockey Wizard), the Dhyan Chand National Stadium is a field hockey stadium located in Central Delhi, in Delhi. The Dhyan Chand National Stadium has a capacity of 25,000 spectators, and is also the venue for the 2010 Boxing Cup, and has served as the venue for the 1st Asian Games in 1951. Major Dhyan Chand Singh has led the Indian Hockey Team to 3 consecutive Olympic Golds (1928 Amsterdam, 1932 Los Angeles, 1936 Berlin). Considered to be a true master of the sport of hockey, there is little wonder that the Dhyan Chand National Stadium was named after him.

Delhi National Railway Museum: Set up in 1977, the Delhi National Railway Museum is over 20 years old and is a must visit when in New Delhi. It is situated in Chanakyapuri in New Delhi, spread over 10 acres of land, and showcases the history of the efficient Indian Railways. The Delhi National Railway Museum, also known as NRM, has a wide collection of rare and antique steam locomotives and other railway artefacts. The Delhi National Railway Museum has live exhibits as well as models, and runs a toy train around the grounds. Famous trains here include the Old Patiala State Steam Monorail, and the Fairy Queen, the world's oldest operational steam locomotive.


Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University: One of the best universities to be based out of Delhi, the Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, commonly referred to as Indraprastha University, is an ISO 9001:2000 Certified university. The Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University currently offers more than 60 programmes in 8 University Schools of Studies and 86 Institutes across the country, with more than 40,000 students. The office and varsity of the Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University is currently in the former campus of Delhi College of Engineering at Kashmere Gate in Delhi. The Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University aims to facilitate and promote studies; research and extension work in emerging areas of higher education.

Gurudwara Sis Ganj Temple: The famous Gurudwara Sis Ganj Temple in Delhi was built on the site of the beheading of Guru Tegh Bahadur in 1675 AD by order of Aurangzeb, a Mughal emperor. It is located in the Chandni Chowk area of Old Delhi and is one of the most important sites of religious worship for Sikhs from all over the world. The Gurudwara Sis Ganj Temple was built a century later, by a zealous devotee named Baba Baghel Singh. Inside the Gurudwara Sis Ganj Temple, one can see the trunk of the tree under which the Guru was executed, and the well where he took his daily bath while being imprisoned in Delhi.

Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium: The famous Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi is one of the most important stadiums in India, apart from being the third largest. The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium is located about 7.5 km from the New Delhi Railway Station, and was built in 1982, and was constructed to host the 9th Asian Games in New Delhi. The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium will also host the upcoming 2010 Commonwealth Games. The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium is an all-purpose sports arena that hosts football, cricket and other sporting events, apart from large-scale concerts and other entertainment events. The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium also houses the headquarters of the Indian Olympic Association.

Karol Bagh: One of the most famous commercial areas of New Delhi, Karol Bagh is considered to be one of the largest shopping areas in the world. Enjoying a central location, Karol Bagh is just 3 km from New Delhi Railway Station, 12 km from the Domestic Airport, and 16 km from the International Airport. Almost everything under the sun is available in Karol Bagh, from electronics, jewellery, clothes, fabric, spare parts, furniture, and spices to name a few. Karol Bagh is the vivid centre of vibrant Delhi, an amalgamation of air-conditioned shops, busy thorough fares and narrow alleys. Karol Bagh is well-connected with a Metro Rail Station nearby.

Lodhi Garden: An oasis in the middle of Delhi, Lodhi Gardens is a popular garden in South Delhi where people from all over congregate to picnic, take a walk and generally enjoy the green environs. Spread out across 90 acres, the Lodhi Gardens houses many tombs of Sikander Lodhi and other monuments from the Pathan dynasty. The Lodhi Gardens is also where famous personalities of Delhi can be spotted – from politicians to authors. With it’s proximity to Khan Market and Safdarjung Tomb, Lodhi Gardens is popular with tourists coming to Delhi. With Lodhi Gardens, there is also a plant and flower nursery and along side Lodhi Gardens, is a fine dining restaurant, The Lodhi. Lodhi Gardens is located on Lodhi Road, opposite India Meteorological Department Mausam Bhawan in Delhi.

National Museum: The National Museum, located on Janpath in Central Delhi, is one of the most important museums in India, containing exquisite exhibits of art and Indian history. The National Museum has more than 200,000 works of art, as well as cultural and archaeological exhibits displaying 5,000 years of India’s heritage. The museum is one of the best places to spend a quiet afternoon in Delhi, and is close to many other attractions of New Delhi such as the Parliament, India Gate, and Connaught Place. Some of the sections at the National Museum include Jewellery, Paintings, Central Asian Antiquities, Arms and Armour, and many others.


Qutub Complex Mehrauli: One of the most interesting monument complexes in Delhi, the Qutub Complex, also spelled as Qutab Complex, is a historical wonderland that is almost a thousand years old, and contains the world famous Qutab Minar, which was conceived and partially built by Qutab-ud-Din Aibak. With inscriptions of the Holy Quran on it, the Qutab Minar is a red sandstone tower that rises to a height of 72.5 metres, dominating the landscape of Delhi. Other monuments in the famous Qutub Complex of Delhi include the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque, Alai Darwaza, a 4th century Iron Pillar. The Qutub Complex is a must see for all visitors to Delhi.

Safdarjung's Tomb: The famous Safdarjung's Tomb of New Delhi is located at the beginning of Lodhi Road in New Delhi, and is one of the city’s most interesting landmarks, as well as one of the last of mausoleums of the Mughal dynasty. It was built in 1754 AD by Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula for his father, Mirza Mukin Abul Mansur Khan, who was known as Safdarjung. Safdarjung's Tomb is designed on the pattern of Humayun's Tomb which is also located in Delhi, approximately 2.5 km away. Safdarjung's Tomb is located in the middle of a beautiful Mughal Garden, in the Mughal Charbagh style. Safdarjung's Tomb is a must visit when in Delhi.

Sarojini Nagar Market: Sarojini Nagar Market in south Delhi is a popular market amongst people of all ages. It’s most prominently known for its export market where shops line a central lane selling clothes that are export rejects. You can get some great deals on top international brand name clothing lines in Sarojni Nagar Market. Sarojni Nagar Market also has a notable vegetable and fruit market with vendors selling fresh groceries daily. Besides the export surplus market and vegetable market, Sarojni Nagar houses a variety of stores that sell everything from furniture to silver to home furnishings to shoes. Sarojini Nagar is truly a one-stop shopping hub for everything. The Sarojni Nagar Market is closed on Monday.

Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple: The Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in New Delhi is one of the most famous temples in the world, and was constructed in a five year period from 8th November 2000 to 6th November 2005. It showcases India’s ancient culture, art, and architecture, and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Delhi. Grandiose and beautiful, the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple complex contains many interesting features apart from the central built-entirely of stone temple. These include the Hall of Values, Theatre, Musical Fountain, Garden of India, Boat Ride, and many other features. The Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in New Delhi was opened with much pomp and splendour in 2005.

Teen Murti Bhavan: Teen Murti Bhawan in New Delhi was originally the house of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawahar Lal Nehru. After his death, the Teen Murti Bhawan was converted into a museum and a library with some of the best books on Indian history in Delhi. Teen Murti Bhawan is also referred to as the Nehru Memorial Museum. The name Teen Murti is derived from the “three statues” memorial built for Indian Soldiers who lost their lives in World War I. The Nehru Planetarium of Delhi is housed in the Teen Murti Bhawan. Teen Murti Bhawan is closed on Mondays and on all public holidays.

University of Delhi: University of Delhi is the central university in Delhi. Established in 1922, University of Delhi offers a number of graduate and post-graduate courses in a variety of streams from fine-arts to engineering. The importance of the university and Delhi is evident in the fact that Vice-president of India is the Vice-chancellor of the University of Delhi. The University of Delhi has a two campus concept, keeping expansion into consideration, with one campus in North Delhi and one in South Delhi. Most of the famous colleges of Delhi come under the University of Delhi. The campus at North Delhi is well connected with central Delhi with the Delhi Metro.

Gurgaon: Part of the National Capital Region (NCR) trio comprising Delhi, Gurgaon and Faridabad, Gurgaon as a suburb has fast developed into a mini metro. Gurgaon is divided in to Old Gurgaon and New Gurgaon by NH8. Famous for its shopping malls, Gurgaon has also emerged as the hub of IT with several international companies setting up their offices here. Along with IT companies, Gurgaon is home to various MNC offices, renowned schools and hospitals. Gurgaon has emerged as a choice location for housing projects as well with builders setting up self-contained residential developments and high rises similar to those in foreign countries.

Urs of Khwaja Gharib Nawaz / Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti

About the Ajmer Sharif Dargah Urs

The Urs of Khwaja Gharib Nawaz (R.A.) / Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti also called as Ajmer Sharif Urs is celebrated every year in the first week of Rajab (on seeing the moon of Rajab) the seventh month of the Islamic calendar. On the appearance of the moon for the month of Rajab, there comes a change in daily routine which is generally held at the Holy Shrine of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti. The main entrance of the Holy Shrine that is usually closed on normal days in night, is kept open through out the day and night (barring for 2 or 3 hours at night) during the six days of Urs. All other daily and weekly programmes are suspended and few functions and ceremonies commence from that night.

Celebrations during Ajmer Sharif Dargah Urs

The holy shrine and its surrounding area become many times happening than the normal days during the Urs. The drums ( big dhols) are beaten to herald the commencement of the annual ceremony. The permanent Chauki (troupe) of qawwals arrive, and after Maghrib (sunset prayers) they sit in front of the shrine and sing the following verses:

“Bartui mehfil-shahana-mubarak-bashad, Saqia-badao-paimana mubarak bashad”

(Felicitation to thee for this blessed and majestic assembly; salutation, ‘Oh Saqi for your bountiful goblet of sacred wine).

 “Ilahi ta-abd-astana-i-yar-rahe, Yeh-asra-hai-gharibon-ka-barqarar rahe”

(Oh God, may this Shrine of the beloved exist till the last day, may this refuge of the poor remain forever!)

Qul Day ( Final Day): Qul ceremony takes place on the last day of Urs which is also the sixth day of the month of Rajab. This is considered to be a very important day. After the morning prayers, people start gathering the Holy Tomb. The activities include recital of Glorious Qoran, Darood, Shijra-e-Chishtia and other verses. People also tie small turbans on each other’s head and pray for the benefit of the people, for peace, prosperity and happiness.

Time Table Ajmer Sharif Urs Festival 2012 (Dargah Khwaja Gharib Nawaz, Ajmer Sharif,  India)

Ajmer Sharif Dargah Urs  Flag Ceremony: May 17 / May 18 2012

Ajmer Sharif Dargah Urs  Beginning Date:  22 May / 23 May 2012

Ajmer Sharif Dargah Urs Jannati Darwaza to open on: 22 May 2012

Ajmer Shariff Dargah Urs  Namaz-E-Juma: 25 May 2012

Ajmer Shariff Dargah Urs  Chhati Sharif:  27 May / 28May 2012

Ajmer Sharif Dargah Urs Annual Fathea Jannati darwaza will be closed on: 27 May / 28 May 2012

Ajmer Shareef Dargah Urs Bara Qul Day: 30 May / 31 May 2012

How to Reach Ajmer:

The Dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti is situated in the city of Ajmer in Rajasthan. The city has a big railway station and also well connected with highway with other parts of the state and rest of the country. Ajmer Junction Railway Station is well-connected by trains with the Indian capital city New Delhi. Ajmad Shatabdi Express runs everyday daily between Delhi and Ajmer.

Where to Stay in Ajmer:

Accommodation is not at all an issue in Ajmer as the city is dotted with several guest houses, budget hotels, economy hotels and star category hotels. Hotels can be booked online or directly after reaching to the city of Ajmer. 

Contact Details of Ajmer Sharif Dargah

Syed Sameer Chishty Shah

S/O: Pir Baba Ji  Syed Sultan Chisty Shah

Gaddi Nashin Aastana-e-Aliya Khwaja Garib Nawaz

111 , Faiz Manzil, Nathwan Shah, Khadim Mohalla, Dargah Sharif

Ajmer-305001 (Rajasthan) India 

Mobile No: +91 9314747893;  +91 9351929593, +91 9252829999,  +91 9887679999, +91 9829135838

 Telephone No: + 91 0145  2426590

E-mail: sameerchishtyshah@gmail.com

Mother's Day

Mother also called Mummy, Mom or Maa in India is considered the most respectable and significant person on the planet. Be it the society or religion, Mother is ranked after the God by all. In the recent time, the tradition of celebrating a special day dedicated to mothers is celebrated across the world as Mother’s Day. The special day meant for honouring mothers, motherhood and maternal bonds in celebrated across various days in different parts of the world commonly in the months of March, April or May. Most countries around the world including India celebrate the Mother’s Day on Second Sunday in May

With the onset of May, fragrance of motherhood and maternal bonds has spread around the globe.  Every person whosoever loves mother or wants to express his or her feelings to mother are planning in their own ways to celebrate the Mother’s Day in a grand way. While some are purchasing precious gifts for their mothers, some have bought especially customize holiday packages for mothers. The big shopping malls, shopping outlets, retail chains, popular brands of clothes and accessories, the eating joints and restaurants, and various other outlets and business firms have come out with special offers for Mother’s Day. 

History of Mother’s Day

There is not a fixed or well defined history of Mother’s Day. Different countries have their own history of celebrating Mother’s Day. In the United States, the Mother's Day date was declared by US President Woodrow Wilson on May 8, 1914 when he signed a Joint Resolution designating the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day. The US tradition of celebrating Mothers Day and paying tribute to mothers spread across several countries over the years and these countries too adopted second Sunday of May as Mother's Day.

Celebrations of Mother’s Day

In countries around the world the way Mothers Day is celebrated in various ways and is quite different from the manner in which Mothers Day is celebrated in US. When it was adopted by other countries and cultures, it was given different meanings, associated to different events (religious, historical or legendary), and celebrated on a different date or dates. But what is more important than the date and fashion of celebration is the feeling behind the festival. The idea of celebrating Mother's Day the world over is to pay tribute to mothers for all their love and support and to make them feel special.

Mother’s Day Cards

Usually the people around the world prefer to gift a beautiful card to their mothers with their personal messages and thoughts expressing love. The cards of Mother’s Day are nowadays available in popular gift item chains like Archies in various sizes, shapes and colours that surely enhance the bonding between a mother and son or daughter. In fact, the card works as an effective tool to develop the eternal mother and child bond. Just purchase a card for Mother’s Day from the nearest outlet and express your feelings to your lovely mother in words. 

Mother’s Day SMS

SMS (Short Message Service) is one of the best ways to express your love for mother. A short and simple SMS to mother from any part of the globe can make a huge difference in mother & child bond. 

Below are some of the SMS (Messages) for Mother’s Day

Mother's Day SMS in English

God could not be everywhere and therefore he made mothers. 

Happy Mother's Day!! 

Mother is an abbreviation of

"M" is for the million things she gave me,

"O" means only that she's growing old,

"T" is for the tears she shed to save me,

"H" is for her heart of purest gold,

"E" is for her eyes, with love-light shining,

"R" means right, and right she'll always be.

Your arms were always open when I needed a hug.

Your arms were always open when I needed a hug.

Your heart understood when I needed a friend.

Your gentle eyes were stern when I needed a lesson.

Your strength and love has guided me and gave me wings to fly.

(Sarah Malin)

Love u mother

Mother is the biggest gift of god

to all human being

Believe it or not she is the real queen

she protect her child and not mean

Essay on mother

In an exam,

chldrn wer gvn to write an esay on mother.

A cute child wrote:

"combination of million wrds

4m 26 alphabets

can never express my loving mom."

I LOVE YOU Mom

I love you

And care for you

Very much

My

Adorable

Nice

Always

Loving

Mom!

Wish u a very happy mothers day

The Miracle of Life nurtured by a woman who gave us love and sacrifice...MOTHER 

Happy Mothers Day!! 

Once upon a memory

Someone wiped away a tear

Held me close and loved me, 

Thank you, Mother dear. 

Immeasurable contribution to my life

I take this opportunity

to thank you for

your immeasurable

contribution to my life.

Thank you Mom!

And wish you a

Very Happy Mother's Day!

Super most example of love.

The Super most example of love in My life.

'When apples were 4 & we were 5,

then my mother said,

'I dont like Apples.'

(Bu Ali Sina)

When you feel you are alone in the crowd, 

When you think No.1 can understand you, 

When your love is rejected by others, 

& when you hate your Life, 

Just close your eyes, & see, her face who loves you

more than any 1 else, 

who care for you in loneliness, 

& dies when you cry. 

She is no 1, but your sweet loving mother. 

Love your mom first and always. 

Mothers Day SMS in Hindi   

Pyar karna koi tumse seekhe 

Pyar karana koi tumse seekhe

Tum mamta ki murat hi nahi,

Sab ke dil ka ek tukda ho

Main kehti hun Maa,

Tum hamesha aisi hi rehna.

Meri pyar ki list mein hai sirf tumhara naam

Selection ki bhi list mein hai sirf tumhara naam

Tum hi meri maa aur meri dost ho 

Mera pyaar hamesha tumhare saath ho.

Maa ki mumta kaun bhulaye,

Kaun bhula sakhta woh pyaar,

Kis tarah bataun kaise ji rahae hum,

Tu toh baitee pardesh mein,

Gale tujhe kaise lagaun,

Lekin bhej raha hae pyaar ish sms mein,

Tera betta meri pyari maa…

Mother's Day Date in Different Countries 

India: Second Sunday in May


United States: Second Sunday in May 

Australia: Second Sunday in May

Belgium: Second Sunday in May

Brazil: Second Sunday in May

Canada: Second Sunday in May

Denmark: Second Sunday in May

Finland: Second Sunday in May

Germany: Second Sunday in May

Greece: Second Sunday in May

Italy: Second Sunday in May

Japan: Second Sunday in May

New Zealand: Second Sunday in May

Singapore: Second Sunday in May

Turkey: Second Sunday in May

United Kingdom/England: Mother's Day is called Mothering Sunday and falls on the fourth Sunday in Lent.

France: First Sunday in June or last Sunday in May

Mexico: - May 8

Albania: - March 8

Russia: - November 28 

Poland: - May 26 

Indonesia: - December 22 

Egypt: - March 21 

Norway: - February 13

Thailand: Birthday of Queen Sirikit Kitiyakara - August 12

Sweden: Last Sunday in May 

Lebanon: First day of Spring 

Norway: The second Sunday in February 

Austria, Hong Kong, Netherlands, Taiwan, Hungary, Portugal, South Africa, Spain: First Sunday in May 

Antwerp (Belgium), Costa Rica: Assumption day - August 15 

Argentina: The Día de la Madre - The second or third Sunday in October 

Much of South America, Bahrain, Malaysia, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates: May 10

Incredible India! Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Munnar, Kerala

The highest tea estate in the world at 8,000 feet, Munnar, Kerala

Thirty-five km outside of Munnar, India, the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate is built high atop the precipitous ridge that rises above the plains. Known for its excellent, flavorsome teas, this estate is also known for its panoramic views and the for the rugged mountains that surround it.

It's remote - it takes about 90 minutes to reach Kolukkumalai from Munnar - but on clear nights, you can see Kodaikanal from the estate because of its height. The factory at the center of the estate has stood for several generations, having been built more than 70 years ago. It uses traditional techniques even today that serve as a draw for tea enthusiasts. Orthodox tea-making is a seven-step process that includes withering, rolling, sieving, fermenting, drying, fiber extraction, and grading. All of this work happens in the small factory that has not been changed since the British constructed it in the 1930s.

The estate was the 2005 Southern Tea Competition winner of the Golden Leaf India Awards.

Incredible India! Wagah Border, a masterpiece of bonhomie between India and Pakistan

If you have not seen the Wagah Border ceremony live, you have really missed something in life. Here ICD (Incredible India Directory) takes you to a a part of our country’s culture that can reduce the mammoths into a blubbering mass. It’s an hour’s drive from Amritsar. Do visit if ever in that part of the country you will really come across a pleasant expereince and come back with lifelong memories.

Each evening the Indian military, and the Pakistani Rangers step out to the cheers of thousands of spectators. While one side screams "Pakistan Zindabad", the other shouts "Jai Hind". Wearing almost identical military regalia of boots, spats, uniforms, metals, and plumed hats the two sides are distinguishable by the differing colors of their uniforms: dark green for the Pakistani Rangers and tan for the Indian Military. Heated looks, mimicked threats, goose stepping and the slap of boots hitting the pavement are all part of the ritual and the movements all bear a distinct resemblance to those of angry birds. Carrying loaded weapons the two sides perform a final elaborate series of steps, speed marching towards each other in an aggressive dance before meeting in the middle and taking the flags down simultaneously. There is the briefest of handshakes with the angriest of looks in their eyes and then the gates are closed. The ceremony, for that day at least, is over.

If you step there once, you’ll see the fervor that spreads amongst the crowds of both sides. You can slice an axe though the emotional thickness in the air. People are so overwhelmed & overcome with the patriotism and the display of anger and pride by their respective militaries that the majority break down and shed a tear or two. Angry shouting of slogans of Jai Hind (on the Indian side) by grown men with tears in their eyes is what marks the actual end of the evening’s ceremony. The same is reciprocated on the other side. As you step down, you notice that you do not hate the other side of the bordered land, it’s just you love the one you live in too much; and then shed another one in pride as you walk back to you waiting car.

Incredible India! Unexplored Attraction! Masrur Temple, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh

Intricately carved from one single piece of sandstone, almost nothing is known about the Masrur Temples. Besides conjecture and legend, there are no hard facts connecting the complex to a people or even a time period. When the temples were first constructed, there were 19 in total, all ranging in size and complexity. Over the years, invasion and natural disaster has left only 15 ruins standing, but the high concentration and unique architecture make it one of the most intriguing temple sites in India.

The temples were built by the Pandava, five brothers who engaged in a massive war with their cousins in the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Later archeological speculation supposed the temples were built in the 9th century by wealthy traders, who built the complex as a shrine to Shiva, Rama, Lakshman and Sita. A number of stone statues depicting these deities still exist inside of the larger temples. Along with the actual structures, a 50 meter-long reservoir that is also hollowed from sandstone lies in front of the main structure, and reflects the stone-carved mystery in its waters.

The setting, the carvings and the layout is a must-see.

Incredible India! Bodh Gaya - The sacred town for Buddhists

Situated in the state of Bihar, Bodh Gaya is one of the most sacred places for the followers of Buddhism. Bodh Gaya is renowned worldover for its conncetion with founder of Buddhism Gautam Buddha who had spent many years of his life in the sacred town. Buddishts throng the town of Bodh Gaya from different parts of India and abroad from China, Tibbat, Bhutan, Japan, Thailand, Korea and many parts of the world. Bodh Gaya has an international airport which is served by flights from several cities of India and foreign destinations.

It took a 1,000 years post the sacred enlightenment for the authorities to build a monastery & temple where Buddha was blessed. The Mahabodhi Temple reaches up to 180 feet  at its highest point and has the tree which sheltered Buddha. Though not the same tree from 2500 years ago, it is the descendant of the original Bodhi tree. Although the tree at Mahabodhi is considered a cutting from the original tree and in the original meditation location, a number of other cuttings exist around the world and are also frequently visited by Buddhist pilgrims.

Besides the sacred tree and temple, the area is similarly dotted with Buddhist relics, marking the locations where Buddha reflected on his enlightenment. One of the most prominent sites, is the the unblinking stupa, which stands in front of the tree. Following legend, the stupa is supposedly in the same place where Buddha stood and stared at the Bodhi tree after attaining enlightenment. In 2002, the entire area was nominated for preservation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is frequently visited by pilgrims and curious onlookers alike.

Incredible India! Roopkund Lake, Uttrakhand

Roopkund (Skeleton Lake) is a glacial lake in Uttarakhand at an altitude of about 5,029 metres. It is famous for more than five hundred human skeletons found at the edge of a lake. In 1942 a British forest guard in Roopkund, India made an alarming discovery. Some 16,000 feet above sea level, at the bottom of a small valley, was a frozen lake absolutely full of skeletons. That summer, the ice melting revealed even more skeletal remains, floating in the water and lying haphazardly around the lake's edges. Something horrible had happened here.

A 2004 expedition to the site seems to have finally revealed the mystery of what caused those people's deaths. The answer was stranger than anyone had guessed. As it turns out, all the bodies date to around 850 AD. DNA evidence indicates that there were two distinct groups of people, one a family or tribe of closely related individuals, and a second smaller, shorter group of locals, likely hired as porters and guides. Rings, spears, leather shoes, and bamboo staves were found, leading experts to believe that the group was comprised of pilgrims heading through the valley with the help of the locals. All the bodies had died in a similar way, from blows to the head. However, the short deep cracks in the skulls appeared to be the result not of weapons, but rather of something rounded. The bodies also only had wounds on their heads, and shoulders as if the blows had all come from directly above. What had killed them all, porter and pilgrim alike?

Among Himalayan women there is an ancient and traditional folk song. The lyrics describe a goddess so enraged at outsiders who defiled her mountain sanctuary that she rained death upon them by flinging hailstones “hard as iron.” After much research and consideration, the 2004 expedition came to the same conclusion. All people died from a sudden and severe hailstorm. Trapped in the valley with nowhere to hide or seek shelter, the "hard as iron” cricket ball-sized [about 23 centimeter/9 inches diameter] hailstones came by the thousands, resulting in the travelers' bizarre sudden death. The remains lay in the lake for 1,200 years until their discovery.

Incredible India! Root Bridges, Cherrapunji

Renowned as one of the most rain receiving places in India and world, Cherrapunji is equally famous for Root Bridges. Fondly it called that Cherrapunji is a place where bridges are not built, they’re grown.

In the wettest place on this earth, the living bridges of Cherrapunji, India are made from the roots of the Ficus elastica tree. This tree produces a series of secondary roots from higher up its trunk and can comfortably perch atop huge boulders along the riverbanks, or even in the middle of the rivers themselves. In order to make a rubber tree's roots grow in the right direction - say, over a river - the Khasis (local tribe) use betel nut trunks, sliced down the middle and hollowed out, to create root-guidance systems.

The thin, tender roots of the rubber tree, prevented from fanning out by the betel nut trunks, grow straight out. When they reach the other side of the river, they're allowed to take root in the soil. Given enough time, a sturdy, living bridge is produced. The root bridges, some of which are over a hundred feet long, take ten to fifteen years to become fully functional, but they're extraordinarily strong - strong enough that some of them can support the weight of fifty or more people at a time.

Unlike bridges built by man, which weaken over a period of time, these don’t. Because they are alive and still growing, the bridges actually gain strength over time - and some of the ancient root bridges used daily by the people of the villages around Cherrapunji may be well over five hundred years old. One special root bridge, believed to be the only one of its kind in the world, is actually two bridges stacked one over the other and has come to be known as the "Umshiang Double-Decker Root Bridge."