Waterfalls in India

Usually a waterfall is a geological formation resulting from water of river, flowing over an erosion-resistant rock formation and forms a sudden break in elevation. Most of the waterfalls are natural, while some may be artificial too.

Waterfalls are one of nature most precious gifts and India is bestowed with several picturesque waterfalls. Apart from geological importance, the waterfalls have tourist important as well and attract large number of tourists.

Adyanpara Falls (Kerala ) : Adyanpara falls is set in the Kurmbalangod village of Nilambur Taluk in the state of Kerala. Kurmbalangod village is rich is wildlife and it attracts numerous variety of birds including the migratory birds. On your Kerala trip visit the Adyanpara Falls to enjoy picnic or some leisure time with your family members.

Chachai Waterfall : Situated on the banks of Bihad river in Chhattarpur District of Madhya Pradesh, this area is known for its picturesque surroundings and rare white tigers. Visit the area to have a look of beautiful water fall, falling in torrents from a height of 130 mts.

Chunchanakatte Falls : A beautiful fall, Chunchanakatte Falls is located on the bank of river Kaveri, close to the village of Chunchanakatte in Mysore District of Karnataka. Here the water falls from a height of 20 mts, and the peaceful and lush green surrounding will surely spell bind you.

Jog Falls : Karanataka’s Jog Falls is a unique creation of nature, and considered as the highest waterfall of Asia. Here the Sharavati river crashes about 900 ft downwards, forming four cascades popularly known as – king, queen, rocket and roarer. Set amidst the wild and unspoilt surroundings, the Jog Falls offers perfect environs for a leisure. During the rainy season when the river swells and the water gushes down, the entire area covers in mists and arching rainbows appears.

Dudhsagar Falls : Falling from a height of 600 mts, Dudhsagar Falls is one of the highest falls in India. Situated on the Karnataka-Goa border, it is an area of tropical forests criss-crossed with wonderful streams. The area near the Dudhsagar Falls is also dotted with shallow pools, where you can enjoy swimming. From the top of the waterfall you can also enjoy the breathtaking view of the surroundings.

Duduma Waterfall : Set in the heartland of Orissa, Dudma Waterfall is a jewell in the crown of the state. Flanked by quiet forest, the waterfall is a hidden wonder and deserves a visit.

Gersoppa Falls : One of the most beautiful falls of Karnataka, Gersoppa Falls protrudes out from Sharavati river. Here the river falls over a sharp cliff that divides into four cascades, the highest among them is 830 ft high. Far from the madness of the city, the waterfall provides you a welcome break.

Jonha Falls : Jonha Falls is located in Jharkhand, just 40 kms away from the state capital Ranchi. Set on the banks of the Kanchi river, Johna Falls is rich in wildlife. Apart from getting the spectacular view of the fall, you also get a chance to visit the nearby Gautam Buddha Temple. Due to its location close to the temple, the fall is also known as Gautam Dhara.

Kiliyur Falls : Kaliyur Falls are nestled in the Servarayan hill range of the Eastern Ghats in Tamil Nadu. Here you will get breathtaking views of waters falling from a height of 300 feet. Besides the views of the lake and the valley will mesmerise you.

Kutralam Falls : Kutralam Falls is situated 160 kms away from Madurai city in Tamil Nadu. A major water body, Kutralam Falls comprises nine waterfalls namely the Peraruvi (Main Falls), Chitra Aruvi, Shenbaghadevi Falls, Then Aruvi (Honey Falls), Aintharuvi (Five Falls), Puli Aruvi(Tiger Falls), Pazhaya Courtrallam (Old Falls), Puthu Aruvi (New Falls)and Pazhathotta Aruvi (Fruit Garden Falls). Also known as the ‘Spa of the South’, Kutralam Falls is noted for its medicinal properties. A huge crowd of believers visit the falls for cure from ailments.

Muthyalamaduvu Falls : Popularly known as ‘Pearl Valley’, Muthyalamaduvu Falls is situated 45 kms south of Bangalore in Karnataka. A gushing stream, Muthyalamaduvu Falls cascading down from a height of 92 metre. It’s true that the drops of water strewn across the rock surface gives the appearance of scattered pearls. Set in the lush green valley amidst tranquil environment, the falls draw huge number of visitors.

Shivanasamudra Falls : Shivanasamudra Falls are located 85 kms east of Mysore. Here the river Cauvery cascades down from a height of about 80 mts into a deep rocky gorge. Shivanasamudra Falls is a beautiful natural spot and you will really like its lush green surroundings.

Vazhachal Falls : A scenic waterfall, Vazhachal Fall is set on the edge of the Sholayar forest range in Kerala. In fact, the Vazhachal Fall is a part of the Chalakkudy river and its cool, misty waters offers a scintillating experience for visitors.

Other Popular Water Falls of India
Andhra Pradesh : Tada (Ubbalamdugu) Falls close to Chennai
Chhattisgarh : Chitrakot (100 ft), Teerathgarh Falls (300 ft)
Himachal Pradesh : Bundla Falls (328 ft), Palani Falls (492 ft)

Jharkhand : Dasam Falls (144 ft), Lodh Falls (468 ft), Hundru Falls (320 ft)
Karnataka : Barkana Falls (850 ft), Magod Falls (650 ft), Hebbe Falls (551 ft)
Kerala : Adyanpara Falls, Athirappilly Falls (80 ft), Meenmutty Falls (984 ft), Soochipara Falls (656 ft).

Madhya Pradesh : Gatha Falls (427 ft), Keoti Falls (427 ft), Rajat Prapat Falls (350 ft)
Maharashtra : Kune Falls (656 ft), Pandavgat Falls (350 ft)
Tamil Nadu : Kiliyur Falls (300 ft), Kutralam Falls (167 mts), Thalaiyar Falls (297 mts).

Tourist Offices in India

India is a vast country comprising of 28 states and 7 Union Territories. In fact, every state and Union Territory in India is a tourist destination in itself and known for its distinct charm. For first timers, visiting these destinations is very difficult. So one needs some assistance from the local tourist offices before visiting these places. For the convenience of global as well as domestic tourists, below I have a compiled a list of tourist offices located in various cities of India.

Assistant Director, Indiatourism(Agra)

191, The Mall, Agra - 282 001Tel.: 0562-2226378,

Telefax: 2226368

E-mail: goitoagr@sancharnet.in

Manager, India Tourism (Aurangabad)

‘Krishna Vilas’, Station Road, Aurangabad - 431 005.

Tel.: 0240-2331217

E-mail: indiatourism@sancharnet.in

Manager, India Tourism(Andaman & Nicobar Island)

VIP Road, 189, IInd Floor, Junglighat Port Blair - 744 103 (Andaman & Nicobar Islands)

Telefax: 03192-233006

E-mail: goitopb@hotmail.com

Director, India Tourism (Bangalore)

K.F.C. Building, 48 Church StreetBangalore - 560 001 (Karnataka)

Telefax: 080- 5585417, 5321683

E-mail: indtour.kar.nic.in

Manager, India Tourism (Bhubaneswar)

B/21, B.J.B. Nagar Bhubaneswar - 751 014(Orissa)

Tel.: 0674-2432203, Res. 2432203Telefax: 2435487

E-mail: itobbs@ori.nic.in



Indiatourism (Chennai)

154 Anna Salai, Chennai - 600002, Tamil Nadu

Tel: 044- 8461459, 8460285, Fax: 044-8460193

E-mail: goirto@vsnl.com; goitochn@tn.nic.in

Manager, India Tourism (Hyderabad)

3-60-140, IInd Floor, Himayat Nagar, Netaji Nagar,

Liberty RoadHyderabad - 500 029 (A.P.)

Tel.: 040-23261360/ 3, 23260770,

Telefax: 23261362

E-mail: indtour@hd2.dot.net.in



Manager, India Tourism (Imphal)

Old Lambulane, Jail Road, Imphal-795 001(Manipur)

Telefax: 03852-221131



Director, India Tourism (Jaipur)

State Hotel, Khasa Kothi Jaipur - 302 001 (Rajasthan)

Telefax: 0141-2372200

E-mail: indtourjpr@raj.nic.in



Manager, India Tourism (Khajuraho)

Tourist OfficeNear Western Group of Temples Khajuraho - 471 606 (M.P.)

Tel.: 07686-42347, Fax: 07686-42348

E- mail: goito@bom6.vsnl.net.in

India Tourism (Kochi)

Willingdon Island,Kochi - 682 009, Kerala

Telefax: 0484 - 2668352, Dir. 2669125

E-mail: indiatourismkochi@sify.com

Information Assistant, India Tourism (Naharlagun)

Sector C, Barapani Police PointNaharlagun - 791 110,

(Arunachal Pradesh),Tel.: 0360-2244328



Manager, India Tourism (Panaji)

Communidade BuildingChurch Square,

Panaji - 403 001 (Goa)Tel.: 0832-2223412,

Telefax: 5641653

E-mail: goito@sancharnet.in

Manager, Indiatourism(Port Blair)

VIP Road, 189, IInd Floor,

Junglighat Port Blair - 744 103 (Andaman & Nicobar Islands)

Tel.: 03192-33006

E-mail: goitopub@hotmail.com

Director, India Tourism (Patna)

Sudama Place, Kankar Bagh Road,

Patna - 800 020 (Bihar)

Telefax: 0612-2345776

Manager, India Tourism (Shillong)

T.S.S. Road, Police BazarShillong - 793 001 (Meghalaya)

Tel.: 0364-225632

E-mail: goitoslg@shillong.meg.nic.in



Information Assistant,India Tourism (Thiruvananthapuram)

Airport Counter, Thiruvananthapuram,

KeralaTel.: 0471-2451498

E-mail: gitotvm@md5.vsnl.net.in

Manager, India Tourism (Varanasi)

15-B, The Mall,Varanasi - 221 002 (Uttar Pradesh)

TeleFax: 0542-2501784

E-mail: goitovns@satyam.net.in

Wildlife in India

A geographically diversified land, India is bestowed with rich and varied wildlife. India’s forest cover includes tropical rainforest, coniferous forest, moist deciduous forest, dry deciduous forest etc. that provide shelter to a variety of wild animals.

 

In the pre-independence era there were vast wildlife areas all over India providing natural habitat to a variety of faunal and floral species. In the post-independence due to continuous poaching and other encroachment all these areas were in danger of extinction. To save the wildlife all these areas were designated as wildlife parks and sanctuaries. Now all over India there are several wildlife sanctuaries and national park whose areas extend over thousands of square kilometres. You can observe a variety of wildlife in the natural surroundings of Wildlife parks and sanctuaries.

Each sanctuary and national park supports several species of wildlife, while at the same time, some are well known for one particular species. In some wildlife sanctuaries you can even see rare or endangered species. Gir Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat is the only surviving home of the Asiatic lion, while Kaziranga and Manas national parks in Assam have significant population of the one-horned rhino. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala is best known for wild elephant. Thamin deer at Keibul Lamjao National Park in Manipur and blackbuck at Velvadhar in Gujarat are the only homes of these species. Apart from these, you can see tiger, and several other variety of wildanimals in these wildlife areas.

In the year 1973 Project Tiger was initiated in India that identified major areas inhabited by tigers. A significant increase in the tiger population was recored in areas protected by project tiger. Bandhavgarh and Kanha National Parks in Madhya Pradesh, Ranthambore and Sariska in Rajasthan, Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand and Dudhwa National Park in Uttar Pradesh are some of country’s best known tigers reserves. In addition to tigers, you can see other animal species such as lions, deers, elephants, nilgais etc.

Just 60 kms away from Agra, Bharatpur has the largest bird sanctuary in Asia. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is also known as Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Stretched over 29 sq km of swamps and marshes, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary has causeways which can be covered on foot or bicycle. Here you can see migratory waterbirds that include herons, ibis, pelicans, painted storks, egrets, openbilled storks and spoonbilss. Various species of ducks and geese migrate from places in Russia, that include the endangered Siberian crane.

Accessibility : All wildlife sanctuaries and national parks are accessible by road. Jeep Safari and Elephant Safari are offered in most of the big wildlife sanctuaries.

Accommodation : For accommodation jungle resorts and hotels are available close to wildlife sanctuaries.

Best Time to Visit : October to March is the most pleasant time to visit any sanctuary and national park in the country.

Some of India's famous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks include :

Corbett National Park (Uttarakhand)
Ranthambore National Park (Rajasthan)
Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary (Rajasthan)
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary (Rajashtan)

Kaziranga National Park (Assam)
Manas National Park (Assam)
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala)
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (Kerala)
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala)

Sunderban Tiger Reserve (West Bengal)
Bandhavgarh National Park (Madhya Pradesh)
Kanha National Park (Madhya Pradesh)
Panna National Park (Madhya Pradesh)

Gir Wildlife Sanctuary (Gujarat)
Dudhwa National Park (Uttar Pradesh)
Great Himalayan National Park (Himachal Pradesh)

World Heritage Sites in India

UNESCO (The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) says "Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live with today, and what we pass on to future generation. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration." With an aim to encourage the identification, protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage around the world, in the year 1972 UNESCO adopted an international treaty called the Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site may be forts, monuments, forests, mountain range, lake, desert, city, railway, city, complex etc. India is bestowed with so many such sites which have been declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Presently India is home to 27 World Heritage Sites that include forts and monuments, caves, wildlife parks and sanctuaries and old heritage properties.

Ajanta Caves (Declared World Heritage Site in 1983) : Situated in Aurangabad District of Maharashtra, Ajanta Caves were inhabited around 200 B.C by the Buddhist monks. Ajanta Caves are also famous for magnificent paintings considered as masterpieces of Buddhist religious art.

Ellora Caves (Declared World Heritage Site in 1983) : Ellora Caves are located in Aurangabad District of Maharashtra. Constructed between 600 AD to 1,000 AD, the Ellora Caves have 34 Buddhist monasteries, and Hindu and Jain temples.

Elephanta Caves (Declared World Heritage Site in 1987) : Elephant Caves are located on Elephant island at a distance of 9 km from Mumbai. For reaching the caves you have to take boat or jetty ride from Gateway of India, Mumbai. Carved out between the years 450 AD and 750 AD, the Elephanta Caves are known for rock-cut temples.

Taj Mahal (Declared World Heritage Site in 1983) : World’s one of the seven wonders, Taj Mahal lies in Agra city of Uttar Pradesh. Built around 350 (1631 and 1653 AD) years ago by Mughal Emperor Shahjanah,Taj Mahal stands as a symbol of eternal love between Shahjahan and his beloved queen Mumtaz Mahal.

Agra Fort (Declared World Heritage Site in 1983) : Situated just one km away from the world famous Taj Mahal, Agra Fort speaks of the splendour of Mughal architecture. Built by Mughal Emperor Akbar in 16th century, Agra Fort Houses picturesque palaces like Jehangir Palace, Khas Mahal etc.

Fatehpur Sikri (Declared World Heritage Site in 1986) : Fatehpur Sikri is located at a distance of 40 kms from Agra. Built by Emperor Akbar in 1569, Fatehpur Sikri remained the capital of Mughal Empire for about 15 years. Also referred to as the ‘Deserted City’ Fatehpur Sikri houses a number of interesting structures like Jama Masjid, Diwan - I - Aam, Diwan - I – Khas, Buland Darwaza etc.

Red Fort, Delhi (Declared World Heritage Site in 2007) : Situated in India’s capital Delhi, Red Fort has been declared a World Heritage Site recently. Constructed between 1638 and 1648 by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan, Red Fort houses a number of magnificent palaces and Moti Masjid (mosque).

Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram (Declared World Heritage Site in 1984) : Located in Chinglepur District of Tamil Nadu, the group of monuments were founded by the Pallava Kings between 630 AD and 800 AD. Carved out of rock, these monuments are known for rathas, mandapas, giant open air reliefs, the temple of Rivage and sculpture dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Group of Monuments at Hampi (Declared World Heritage Site in 1986) : Situated in the Bellary District of Karnataka, Hampi was the last capital of Hindu Kingdom of Vijayanagar. Constructed between the 14 th and 16 th centuries, these monuments are considered as masterpieces of Dravidian style of architecture.

Group of Monuments at Khajuraho (Declared World Heritage Site in 1986) : Built by the Chandela rulers between 950 AD and 1050 AD, the Khajuraho temples are located in Indian state of Madya Pradesh. Originally there were 85 temples but now only 22 temples remain and known for the collection of erotic and sensual sculptures.

Group of Monuments at Pattadakal (Declared World Heritage Site in 1987) : Situated in Bijapur district of Karnataka, Pattadakal is home to an impressive series of monuments including nine Hindu temples and Jain Sanctuary.

Buddhist Monastery at Sanchi (Declared World Heritage Site in 1989) : Sanchi is located at a distance of 40 kms from Bhopal and houses a group of Buddhist monuments. Here you can see monolithic pillars, palaces, temples and monasteries an interesting specimen of the Buddhist architecture of that period.

Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi (Declared World Heritage Site in 1993) : Built in 1570 AD by Haji Begum, wife of Humayun, Humayun’s Tomb is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture.

Qutab Minar and its Monuments, Delhi (Declared World Heritage Site in 1993) : A 72.5 mtr high tower, Qutab Minar was built in 1193 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak. Apart from the imposing tower, in the Qutab complex you can see notable monuments like Alai Darwaza and the Quwwatul Islam mosque.

Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka (Declared World Heritage Site in 2003) : Situated in the foothills of the Vindhya mountain ranges Madhya Pradesh, Bhimbetka is the place where earliest known traces of human life in India were discovered.

Wildlife Parks in India : India is varied land and it is home to a number of protected wildlife areas called the wildlife parks and sanctuaries. UNESCO has designated some of the national parks of India as World Heritage Sites for providing shelter to unique floral and faunal species. Presently five wildlife parks of India are designated as World Heritage Site that include Kaziranga National Park (Declared World Heritage Site in 1985), Manas National Park (Declared World Heritage Site in 1985), Keoladeo Ghana National Park (Declared World Heritage Site in 1985), Sunderbans Tiger Reserve (Declared World Heritage Site in 1987) and Nanda Devi National Park (Declared World Heritage Site in 1988).

Other World Heritage Sites : Sun Temple, Orissa (Declared World Heritage Site in 1984), Brihadisvara Temple (Great Living Chola Temples) (Declared World Heritage Site in 1987), Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodhgaya (Declared World Heritage Site in 2002), Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Declared World Heritage Site in 2002), Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Station (Declared World Heritage Site in 2004), Champaner – Pavagadh Archaeological Park (Declared World Heritage Site in 2004) and Churches and Convents of Goa (Declared World Heritage Site in 1986).

For more info visit :

http://whc.unesco.org/

Thiruvananthapuram

Kerala’s capital city Thiruvananthapuram is also known as Trivandrum. A coastal city, Thiruvananthapuram is set on seven low hills, just 87 kms away from the southern tip of India bounded by the Arabian Sea on the west and Tamil Nadu on the east. Besides its administrative importance, Thiruvananthapuram is an easy-going city known for attractive mixture of narrow backstreets, traditional red-tiled gabled houses, beautifully laid-out parks and acres of palm trees.

The wooded highlands on the Western Gahts in the eastern and northeastern borders give Thiruvananthapuram some of India’s most enchanting picnic spots. A long coastline, with some internationally renowned beaches, historic monuments, tranquil backwater stretches and a rich cultural heritage made Thiruvananthapuram a much sought after tourist destination.

Although Thiruvananthapuram has a few monuments, but it is an ideal first stop in the state of Kerala, as a window of Keralan culture. Fort area, Shri Padmanbhaswamy temple and Puttan Malika Palace are most interesting part of the town. While other interesting places are Shri Chitra Art Gallery and Napier Museum stand together in a park in the north. In addition to these, martial art and dance schools specializing in Kathakali and Kutiyattam, offer visitors an insight into the Keralan art forms. You can also shop for a variety of artifacts and items of daily use in the shops located at the MG Road.

For more info visit :

http://www.footstops.com/somak_sen/blog/1848/

Kota

Once the capital of the Kota state, Kota is now the industrial centre of Rajasthan. Set along the east bank of the Chambal river, Kota is home to the hydroelectric power plants. At the centre of the town is the Tourist Office or Bungalow and a number of small hotels. On the southern side of the town is the Chambal Garden while to the north there is the Civil Lines.

Chambal Gardens are a famous picnic spot and have a pond well stocked with crocodiles. Upstream from the Chambal Gardens at Bhitariya Kund, there is a famous swimming spot in the clear waters of the Chambal river. The Kota Barrage acts as a control over the Chambal river’s waters and also feeds an irrigation canal system.

Adjancet to the gardens is the Kota Fort. The fort has two museums, namely the government museum and the Rao Madho Singh museum. Both this museum have a good collection of old items. Jag Mandir is another place of tourist interest in Kota. Located near the tourist bungalow this large tank has a building on a small island in the centre. In addition to tourist Bungalow there is a fine collection of royal tombs. Visit this charming town of Rajasthan and enjoy a good vacation alongwith your family.

For more info visit :

http://momentsofkota.blogspot.com/

Bundi

Bundi is a beautiful small town, situated 142 kms to south-east of Ajmer and only 39 km west of Kota. The town of Bundi is picturesquely seated in a narrow valley, brooded over by the imposing Taragarh Fort. The road that leads to Bundi town comes in along the other side of the valley so you have a good view over the town and across the fort as you arrive.

Bundi is a historic town known for its ornate forts, places and baoris (stepwells) or water reservoirs. Taragarh Fort is the main attraction of the town. Built in 1372 AD, the fort can be reached by a steep road up the hillside to its massive gateway topped by rampant elephants. Inside the fort there are palaces and the Chitrashala or picture gallery with the walls covered in murals of hunting and religious scenes painted in the Bundi style. From the fort ramparts you will get the fine view of the Bundi town and the surrounding areas. Directly below the fort are the Ratan Daulat or horse stables.

Naval Sagar is an artificial lake visible from the fort as well. In the centre of the lake, there is a temple dedicated to Varuna, the Aryan God of Water. Just one km out of the town, the modern palace lies at Phool Sagar with its beautiful artificial tank and gardens. Shikar Burj is a small hunting loge and picnic spot near Bundi. You can see the cenotaphs of Bundi’s rulers near here at Khshar Bagh. Another small palace, Sukh Niwas is situated at the Jait Sagar tank.

For more info visit :

http://incrediblebundi.blogspot.com/

http://taragarhfort.blogspot.com

Mount Abu

Mount Abu, the only hill resort of Rajasthan spreads out along a 1,200 mtr high plateau in the southern part of the state, adjacent to the Gujarat border. A popular hill station of India, Mount Abu provides a pleasant retreat to the people living in the plains of Rajasthan and Gujarat. Apart from India visitors, Mount Abu is visited by large number of foreign tourists every year.

Mount Abu stretches along a hilly plateau about 22 km long and six km wide and it is lovely place to wander around at leisure. The main town extends along the road from Abu Road to the Nakki Lake and the nearest railway station is located 27 kms away at Abu Road. Mount Abu also has a number of noted temples including the Dilwara group of Jain temples. Dilwara Jain Temples is a very important pilgrimage centre for Jains and the marble carvings of the temples are considered among the best in Rajasthan.

Nakki Lake is another major attraction of Mount Abu which is surrounded by hills, parks and unique rock formations namely Toad Rock, Nandi Rock and Nun Rock. Virtually situated in the centre of the town, the Nakki Lake derives its name from the legend that it was scooped out by a god using only his nails (nakh). Nakki Lake is the centre of all activity in Mount Abu and here you will find juice stalls, ice cream parlours, balloon vendors, shops and small food stalls. Beside the lake, the Raghunath temple stands which was built in the 14th century.

Just 3 kms north of town is the Adhar Devi Temple. Dedicated to goddess Durga the temple is built in a natural cleft in the rock. Brahma Kumaris Spiritual University and Museum is another highlight of Mount Abu. Apart from these, Mount Abu has a number of viewpoints where visitors stroll out every evening to catch the setting sun, the food stall and the entertaining activities. Some noted viewpoints are Sunset Point and Honeymoon Point.

For more info visit :

http://daysatmountabu.blogspot.com/

http://dilwarajaintemples.blogspot.com

Bharatpur

Situated at a distance of 55 from Agra, Bharatpur is a historic town of Rajasthan. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Bharatpur was a major centre of Jat stronghold. During those days the Jats maintained a high degree of autonomy and they successfully opposed the Mughals.

Once surrounded by an 11 km long wall, the town is now known for its Bird Sanctuary. Also known as Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary lies just 5 kms south of the city centre and it easily reachable by cycle-rickshaw. Many travellers rate this park as one of the best parks which they have visited earlier.

If you are a bird-watching enthusiast, then you would surely like to spend a few day at Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. The park is open from 6 am to 6 pm daily, walking or cycling along the road provides unique opportunities to closely observe the rich avian life. Just at the entrance to the park, you will see a range of stuffed birds, map of the park, nests of the various bird species, examples of the aquatic species found in the park and a photographic display. Entry to park is free. Don’t forget to carry binoculars for better bird-viewing, try to get some with a strap so you can conveniently hand them around your neck.

Apart from the bird sanctuary, Bharatpur is home to a number of other tourist attractions namely – Lohagarh Fort, Government Museum, Nehru Park and Ganga Temple. Maharaja Suraj Mal built the Lohagarh Fort also known as Iron Fort in the 18th century and which withstood an attack by the British in 1805 and a long siege in 1825. The fort took its name from its supposedly impregnable defences. The fort is open from 9 am to 5 pm daily and admission is free. The Government Museum housed in Durbar Hall of the fort, has a good collection of sculptures, inscriptions and works of art from the region.

For more info visit :

http://bhartpurbirdsanctuary.blogspot.com/

Ajmer - Pushkar

Ajmer a major religious centre for Muslim pilgrims is 131 kms south-west of Rajasthan’s capital Jaipur. A sacred city, Ajmer houses some fantastic examples of early Mughal architecture in the form of magnificent monuments. Actually Ajmer doesn’t have the same rustic charm as other Rajasthani towns and is more of a pilgrimage centre than a tourist destination. The main streets of Ajmer remain crammed with heavy traffic, pedestrians and busy bazaars. Despite, such negative points, Ajmer has its distinct charm and once you visit the town you feel yourself enriched with the spirituality.

Ajmer is famous for the tomb of Sufi saint Khawaja Moinuddin Chisti, who founded the Chishtiya order. Situated at the foot of a barren hill in the old part of town, the tomb is one of the most important places in India for Muslims. Not only Muslims, but people of other religions also visit this tomb for fulfillment of their wishes. Construction of the shrine was finished by Humayun and the main gate was completed added by the Nizam of Hyderabad. Before entering inside the main entrance of the tomb you have to remove your shoes. You have to cover your head inside the shrine complex so remember to carry a top or scarf, that are available at the bazaar outside. Inside the shrine complex there are two mosques, two big pots namely – Badi Degh and Small Degh and a well as well.

Besides, the Dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti there are other famous places in Ajmer which deserve a visit. Ana Sagar Lake, Adhai Di Ka Jhonpra, Taragarh Fort, Akbar’s Palace, Nasiyan (Red) Temple etc. are other popular attractions of Ajmer.

Just 11 kms from Ajmer, Pushkar is another pilgrimage destination related to Hindus. Pushkar is home to the only temple of India dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator of the Universe. Pushkar Lake is the major attraction of the town, on the banks of the lake a number of temples stand. Pilgrims take holy dip in the lake in the early morning, while in the evening the ritual of AARTI is performed on the ghats of lake. Every year during November the Pushkar Fair is held here, which is known for cattles and a number of fun-filled activities. Lakhs of people visit Pushkar from far and wide to participate in the cattle fair.

For more info visit :

http://ajmer-asacredcity.blogspot.com/

http://holypushkar.blogspot.com/