JAMMU & KASHMIR

   1

 

 

Jammu and Kashmir is the sixth largest state in India-Including the area occupied by Pakistan and China. The crown of India lies in the extreme north of the country and shares international boundary on three sides with China, Afghanistan and Pakistan. It is bounded in the south by Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. The mountainous state is blessed with lofty snow clad peaks, deep gorges, glaciers, lush green meadows and verdant valleys full of Chinar trees, beautiful silvery lakes, charming flora and fauna, making it a “Paradise on Earth”. It is a excellent base for leisure and adventurous holidays amidst breath taking scenery.

            Jammu and Kashmir has a very rich history and a distinct culture where people of all faiths live in perfect harmony; it houses some of the most sacred temples, mosques, monasteries and caves. Kashmiri handicrafts are well known all over the world. The ancient tradition of crafting papier mache, wood carving, carpet and shawl making etc. generates substantial amount of foreign exchange. The world’s highest observatory is to be set in Hanle, Ladakh in 1999. A visit to this paradise, resplendent in nature’s glory, will linger long in the memory of the visitor.

 

 

 

 

PLACES OF INTEREST

 

*ACHABAL:              Gardens, Camping and Picnic site, Fishing.

*KOKARNAG (13): Mineral springs, Gardens, Fishing.

*AKHNUR:               Fort, Picnic spot.

*AMARNATH:         Major Pilgrim center, Emerald Lake frozen till June.

*SHESHNAG (19):    Lake, glaciers.

*ANANTNAG:          Sacred spring, gardens.

*ATHWATOO:          Holiday resort.

*BASOLI:                  Frescoes in places, Temples.

*BILAUR:                  Pilgrim center.

*BATOTI:                  Jammu Hill resort.

*DACHIGAM:          Wildlife sanc. & National Park.

*DRAS:                      Coldest place in Asia.

*GULMARG:            Meadow of flowers, Holiday resort, Golf, Winter sports.

*KHILANMARG (4): Meadow of flowers.

*TANGMARG (6):   Camping site.

*HARWAR:               Excavations, Fishing.

*JAMMU:                 Temples, Palaces, Art Gallery, Fort, Tombs, Museums, winter capital of the state.

*MANSAR LAKE:   Antiquities, Boating, Picnic spot.

*PURMANDAL:       Hindu pilgrim center.

*KARGIL:                 Base for trekking, Mountaineering, visiting Monasteries and Orchards.

*LAMAYARU:          Oldest monastery, Frescoes.

*MULBEKH:            Sculptures.

*KHAJIAR GLACIER: scenic beauty.

*KISHTWAR:           Tombs, Sapphires.

*KUD:                        Hill station, scenic beauty.

*PATNITOP: Picnic spot, Pilgrim center, Sudh Mahadev murals in temple, fair.

*SANSAR:                 Scenic beauty.

*LEH:                         Palaces, nearby Buddhist monasteries, Mosque, highest Airport and Golf course in the      world, handicrafts, cuisine, trekking.

*ALCHI GOMPA:    Murals.

*HEMIS GOMPA:    Biggest and richest Buddhist monastery in Ladakh.

*SPITOK GOMPA:  Monastery of Ladakh’s Head Lama.

*MARTAND:            Temple ruins, Sun temple, sacred springs and Gardens.

*PAHALGAM:          Holiday resort, Fishing, nearby Picnic spots and Saffron fields.

*ARU:                        Scenic beauty, Meadows in the forests.

*KOLHOI GLACIER: Scenic beauty.

*LIDDERWAT:        Meadows, Camping site, Trekking.

*RAMNAGAR:         Palace, Ramnagar WLS.

*SONAMARG:         ‘Meadows of Gold’, Flowers, and Lakes, Camping site.

*GANGABAL:          Lake-side, Hindu pilgrim center.

*SRINAGAR:            Lakes, Gardens, Temples, Mosques, Handicrafts, winter capital of the state.

*ANCHAR LAKE:    Major Muslim pilgrim center, Hazratbal Mosque.

*AWANTIPURA:      Temple ruins.

*BURZAHOM:         Excavations.

*CHARAR-I-SHARIF: Muslim pilgrim center.

*CHASHMASAHI:   The royal spring, water with healing properties, Gardens, Picnic spot.

*KHIRBHAWANI:   Hindu pilgrim center.

*MANASBAL LAKE: Bird watching, Lotuses.

*TASRAR SHARIF: Shrine sacred to Muslims and Hindus.

*WULAR LAKE:      Scenic beauty, Fishing, Largest fresh water lake in Asia.

*TARSAR:                 Lake, Scenic beauty.

*VERNAG:                Famous spring, gardens, shrines.

* WAISHNODEVI:   Major Hindu pilgrim center.

*KATRA:                   Base for Waishnodevi, Fort, Shrines.

*WATLAB:                Camping site by Wular Lake.

*YUSMARG:             Camping site on beautiful meadows.

 

*Town with good accommodation                                                                  Best Season – April to September

 

 

 

 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HIMACHAL PRADESH

   2

 

Himachal Pradesh, renowned as the “Apple Land of India”, and the “Abode of Gods”, is a veritable paradise, a tourist’s dream and delight. It is situated in the north-west corner of India, right in the lap of Himalayas. It is bordered by Jammu and Kashmir on north, Punjab on west and south-west, Haryana on south, Uttaranchal on south-east and by Tibet on east. Himachal became a full-fledged state on January 25th 1971, with Shimla as its capital. Himachal is India’s18th largest state in area and 20th in population. It is one of the most beautiful states of the country where landscaping knows no bounds. Its geographical diversity ranges from green meadows and pastures to the stark grandeur of Himalayas. The state is endowed with mighty snow covered peaks, deep gorges, verdant valleys, flower filled meadows, fast flowing rivers, glaciers and enchanting lakes. Himachal is studded with several excellent hill resorts, Shimla, the former summer capital of the Britishers, is one of the most popular hill station of the country. The celebrated Kullu and Kangra valleys, and Manali have a unique charm and personality, and are considered to be more gracious and exciting than Kashmir valley. Kullu Valley, 217km. From Shimla, is famous for its scenic beauty, apple orchards, and lively tribal music and dances. It’s worth making a special trip to Kullu, to witness Dusshera, the most exuberant festival of the Kullu valley. The Dusshera festival is celebrated here for 10 days with traditional fervour. The celebrations here are quit different as compared to other parts of the country. Shri Raghunathji is the principal deity of the region, and during the Dushera festivities about 360 gods goddesses of the various temples in the Kullu valley are brought in beautifully decorated raths (chariots) to pay homage to Raghunathji. Himachal, a tourist’s paradise, also provides great opportunities to adventure and fun seekers. There are facilities for trekking, mountaineering, fishing, river rafting, skiing, para gliding, ice-skating and golf. A visit to this enchanting land is the most relaxing and satisfying experience.

 

 PLACES OF INTEREST

 

*BILASPUR:             Caves, Temples, View of Anandpur Sahib, Lake.

*NAINA DEVI:         Hindu pilgrim center.

*CHAIL:                    highest cricket ground in the world, Hill station, Palace, Woods ideal for trekking and bird watching, Fishing.

*CHAIL SANCTUARY: Birds and Wildlife.

*CHAMBA:               Temples, Museum, Gateway to Tisa & Pangh valleys, Gardens, Murals and Paintings.

*BHARMAUR:         Ancient capital, Temples, ‘Switzerland of India’.

*DALHOUSIE:          Hill station, Handicrafts Picnic spot.

*DHARMSALA:       Hill station, Tibetan handicrafts, Headquarters of Dalai Lama, Tibetan monastery, Bhagsunag Temple.

*JAWALAMUKHI:  Temple, festival of Flame Goddess.

*KALPA:                    Handloom shawls, Folk dances, Forest Flora and Fauna.

*KANGRA:               Fort, Ancient town, Miniature paintings, Temples.

*KASAULI:               Hill station.

*KHAJIAR:               Lake-side valley, Golf.

*KHOKSAR:             Gateway to the Lahaul and Spiti valleys, the Land of the Lamas.

*KYELANG:              Buddhist monastery.

*TRILOKINATH:     Buddhist pilgrim center, Monastery.

*KOTGARH:             Orchards.

*KULLU:                   Orchards, Temples, Scenery, Trekking, Trout fishing.

*BAIJNATH:             Pilgrim center, Temple, Scenic beauty.

*BAJAURA:              Temples, Orchards.

*GOBIND SAGAR:  Boating.

*MANIKARAN:       Hot springs.

*NAGAR:                  Roerich’s home now a museum, Temples.

*MANALI:                Hill resort, Trekking, Temples, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Orchards, Four tiered wooden temple with pagoda shaped roof.

*BASHISHTA:          Hot sulpur springs.

*MANDI:                   River-side hill station; Pilgrim center, Temples, Floating islands, Sculptures.

*REWALSAR:          Sacred lake for Hindus, Buddhists and Sikhs.

*NAHAN:                  Hill station, Temples.

*NARKANDA:          View of Himalayan Peaks.

*NURPUR:                Fort, Handlooms.

*PALAMPUR:           Hill stations, Plantations.

*PAONTA SAHIB:   Sikh pilgrim center, Fort.

*RENUKA:                Sacred lake, Lake-side Wildlife Sanctuary, Handicrafts.

*SHIMLA:                 Major hill resort of India, Year-round Holiday center, Meadows and forests, Handicrafts.

*KUFRI:                    Winter sports.

*FAGU:                      Scenic beauty.

*MASHOBRA:         Hiking, Picnic spot .

*NALDEHRA:          Golf.

*TATTAPANI:          Sulphur springs.

*THEOG:                   Trout fishing.

*WILD FLOWER HALL:    Floral beauty.

*SOLAN:                   Hill station, Brewery.

*BAROG:                  Hill resort, Scenic Rly. Stn.

 

*Towns with good accommodation.                                                           Best season—April-October.   

 

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UTTARANCHAL

 3

 

Uttaranchal is the 27th state of the Indian Union. It came into existence on 9th November 2000, when it was formally separated from the parent state of Uttar Pradesh. This charming hilly state consists of two regions, Garhwal in the west and Kumaon in the east. Both the regions are blessed with exceptional natural beauty, and are studded with stunning snow covered peaks, which rank among the most beautiful mountains of the inner Himalayas. The antiquity of the state can be traced back to 2nd century B.C., when the region was under the domain of Kuninda’s, the central Himalayan tribe, who practisedearly form of Shaivism. There is also a Ashokan edict at Kalsi, in Garhwal region, which indicates that Buddhism also reached these parts of the country. Between the seventh and fourteenth centuries, the region came under Shaivite Katyuri, and thus Brahmanical culture flourished here. While between thirteenth to fifteenth centuries, Chandras dominated the eastern Kumaon. Under the Chandras, eastern Kumaon became a center of learning, and various art forms including Garhwal School of painting was developed. Since independence, the local aspiration steadily grew demanding a separate state of Uttrakhand or Uttranchal. After a long and determined struggle by the hill people, Prime Minister Deve Gowda on 15th August 1996 declared that Uttrakhand would be granted full statehood. But it was only in June 1998; the central Government announced its decision to create a new state named Uttranchal. On Sept. 23, 1998, the U.P. Assembly passed the draft bill for the formation of Uttranchal, which included Udham Singh Nagar and excluded Hardwar. After a long political debate the hilly region of U.P. finally acquired its dream of statehood in November 2000, and Udham Singh Nagar as well as Hardwar were included in it.

GARHWAL:  This holy land is the source to two holiest rivers Ganga and Yamuna of Hindu mythology. Gangotri Glacier, the source of great river Ganga, in north-central Garhwal is one of the most revered spot for the Hindus. The Chardgam’s—Badrinath, Kedarnath, Haridwar Rishikesh, where people come to discover a past but end up with a future, are also located here. Every year between may and November, when the snows melt in the mountains, pilgrims and trekkers undertake the adventurous journey to visit the holy shrines and mighty peaks.

KUMAON:     The tourist potential of this part of the state, is not fully exploited as in the case of the Garhwal. There are important pilgrim centers like Jageshwar, Bhageshwar and Baijnath. The beautiful hill resort like Nainital, Almora, Ranikhet and Kausani have a charm of their own. The Corbett National Park, one of the best game reserves of the country is located south-east of Nainital.

 

 

PLACES OF INTEREST

 

*ALMORA:                           Hill station, nearby Temples and Ashrams, trekking, starting point for visit to Glaciers.

*JOGESHWAR:                    Ancient temples.

*PANWANAULA:                 Temples nearby.

*PINDARI GLACIER:         Himalayan scenery.

*BADRINATH:                     Major Hindu pilgrim center, Hot springs, Temples.

*CHAKRATA:                      Hill station.

*CHAMOLI:                         Hill station.

*CHAMPAWAT:                  Old capital of Kumaon and ancient architecture.

*CHAUKHUTIA:                  View of Himalayas, Garden.

*CORBETT (DHIKKAL):    National Park.

*DEHRADUN:                      State’s capital, Scenic beauty, Gateway to Mussorie.

*DEVPRAYAG:                    Hindu pilgrim center, Temples.

*GANGOTRI:                       Source of sacred river Ganga, Hindu pilgrim center, Temples.

*HARIDWAR:                      One of the seven sacred cities of Hindus, Temples, Ghats Ashrams.

*HEMKUND:                        Major Sikh pilgrim center, Lake, Temples.

*JOSHIMATH:                     Hindu pilgrim center, Temples.

*GOVINDGHAT:                 Starting point fir Hemkund and valley of flowers.

*VALLEY OF FLOWERS:   Spectacular scenic beauty.

*KARNAPRAYAG:              Hindu pilgrim center, Temples.

*NANDPRAYAG:                 Hindu pilgrim center, Temples.

*KASAUNI:                           ‘Switzerland of India’, View of snow peaks, Ashrams.

*KATHGODAM:                  Railway station for Kumaon hills.

*KEDARNATH:                   Major Hindu pilgrim center, Temples.

*LANSDOWNE:                   Hill resort.

*LOHAGHAT:                      Hill station.

*MUSSORIE:                        Major hill resort, Gardens, Fishing, and Trekking.

*NAINITAL:                         Major hill resort, Gardens, Fishing, Boating.

*NARENDRANAGAR:       Hill station.

*PANT NAGAR:                   Agricultural University.

*PITHORAGARH:               Hill station.

*RANIKHET:                        Hill station.

*RISHIKESH:                       Hindu pilgrim center, Ashrams, Temples.

*SRINAGAR:                        Temples.

*UTTARKASHI:                   Temples, Hill station.

*YAMNOTRI:                       Source of sacred Yamuna River, Hindu pilgrim center, Hot springs, Temples.

 

*Town with good accommodation                                                                       Best Season—April-October  

 

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PUNJAB & CHANDIGARH

  4

 

Punjab is the 19th largest state in India. The land of five rivers—Ravi, Satluj, Chanab, Beas and Jhelum, is highly fertile and is now the granary of India. Ancient Punjab, the land of the Vedas, Indus valley civilization, Taxila University, of milk and honey, arts and artifacts, rich agriculture, warm hospitable and brave people was subjected to repeated onslaughts from the Persians, Mauryans, Scythians, Parthians, Kushans and then the Mughals. Fifteenth and sixteenth century mark a period of watershed in the history of Punjab. Through the teachings of Guru Nanak, Bhakti movement received a great impetus. It was under the leadership of the tenth guru of the Sikhs, Guru Govind Singh, the Sikhs were transformed into the militant outfit ‘Khalsa’, to challenge the tyranny of Mughals. The state also made great contribution to the India’s struggle for freedom on all fronts in India and abroad. Punjab faced the holocaust of partition after India’s independence. But the enterprising and industrious people of Punjab bounced back to become one of the most affluent states of the country. Today it is synonymous with high spirits, prosperity and passionate involvement with life itself. Punjab’s roll in the field of ‘green revolution’, industrial development, sports and armed forces has been unique and unparallel. It has alone contributed59.2%of wheat and 50% of rice to the Central pool in 1995-96 marketing year, despite the fact that it comprises only 1.53% of the total area of the country. Punjab is dotted with places of historical and cultural interest.

Chandigarh has been a Union Territory since 1966. It is the capital of both Punjab and Haryana. This is the best planned modern city of India. This new city was planned and designed by a famous French architect Le Corbusier and his cousin Pierre Jeanneret and can be called a papean to the urban planning. This city has been divided into several self-contained sectors, each with its own market-place, hospitals, educational institutions, worship places, gardens and open play grounds etc.

 

PLACES OF INTEREST

*AMRITSAR:                       Sacred city of the Sikhs, the Golden Temple, Shrines, Gardens, Fort, Museums.

*RAM TIRATH:                   Temples, Hindu pilgrim center, Birthplace of Lav & Kush (the epic Ramayana).

*TARN TARAN:                   Sikh shrine.

*ANANDPUR SAHIB:         Temples, Fort.

*BATHINDA:                        Fort.

*MAISAR KHANA:             Maisar Khana Mai Mandir.

*BEAS:                                   Radhaswami Satsang Ashram, Religious center.

*CHANDIGARH:                 Museum, Art gallery, Rock Garden, Asia’s biggest Rose garden, Sukhna Lake, Secretariat and Legislature Building, Punjab University campus.

*DERA BABA JAIMAL SINGH: Ashram colony of all faiths.

*DERA BABA NANAK:      Sikh pilgrim center.

*DHOLBAHA:                      Temple, Antiquities.

*FATEHGARH SAHIB:       Sikh pilgrim center.

*FARIDKOT:                        Fort.

*GOVINDWAL:                    Sikh pilgrim center.

*JALANDHAR:                    Sports goods & publishing center, Fort.

*KAPURTHALA:                  Palace, Temples, and Mosque.

*KIRATPUR:                        Sikh pilgrim center.

*LUDHIANA:                        Major center of small-scale industry, Hosiery ‘Capital’, Fort.

*NEELON:                            Holiday resort.

*PATHANKOT:                    Gateway to Jammu & Kashmir and the valleys of Himachal.

*SHAHPUR:                          Fort, Muslim antiquities.

*PATIALA:                            Palace and museum, Fort, National Institute of Sport, Gardens, Art Gallery.

*SAIFABAD:                         Fort.

*RUPNAGAR:                      Archaeological site, Boating and fishing on lake.

*SANGAL:                             Major Archaeological site of Harappan period.

*SANGRUR:                         gardens, Antiquities Sikh holy places nearby.

*SIRHIND:                            Sikh and Muslim shrines, Lake-side Garden, historical town of Aam Khas Bagh (5).

 

*Towns with good accommodation.                                                   Best season—October-March

 

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 HARYANA & DELHI

  5

 

Haryana, the “Green Land of India”, is 20th largest in area and 17th in population. The modern state of Haryana came into being on November 1st 1966. The state is bounded by Uttar Pradesh in east, Punjab in west, Himachal Pradesh in north and Rajasthan in south. National Capital Territory of Delhi forms an enclave into the eastern border of Haryana. The fertile state can be divided into two natural areas viz., sub-Himalayan Terai and Indo-Gangetic plain. Haryana has no perennial river. For most of the year, climate of Haryana is of a pronounced character-very hot in summer and markedly cold in winter. Haryana has a proud history going back to the Vedic age. The state was the home of the legendry Bharata dynasty, which has given the name “Bharat” to India. Haryana is immortalized in the great epic Mahabharata, Kurukshetra, the scene of the epic battle between the Kaurvas and the Pandavas, is situated in Haryana. The state continued to play a leading role in the history of India till the advent of Muslims and the rise of Delhi as the imperial capital of India. This state has an agriculture-based economy, it also has a very sound industrial base. Haryana produces the largest number of tractors in the country. Panipat has earned the reputation of being the “weaver’s city” of India for its exquisties hand-tuffed woolen carpets and colourful handloom products.

Delhi, the capital of India and major gateway to the country, is a fine blend of ancient and modern India. The antiquity of this great city dates back to the age of Mahabharat. Contemporary Delhi is a conglomerate of seven ancient cities. Down the ages the region in and around modern Delhi saw Lalkot built in mid-eleventh century; Siri, established by Allauddin Khilji; Tuglakabad by Tughlaks; Ferozabad by Lodis; followed by Shahjahanabad by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. New Delhi built by the imperial British reflects the grandeur of the bygone era, and is one of the most modern metropolis cities. On the contrary the walled city is all tradition where one can peep into the past lifestyle in all its facets, colours and spells. The historic city is full of magnificent monuments, mosques, Bhavan, Parliament House, Old Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, National Museum, Raj Ghat etc.

 

PLACES OF INTEREST

 

*AMBALA:               Sikh pilgrim center, City of Scientific instruments.

*BADKHALLAKE:  Picnic spot, Boating, Fishing.

*BHIWANI:               Temples, Stately homes, Jewellery.

*CHANDIGARH:     Capital of State.

*DHARUHERA:       Industrial center.

*FARIDABAD:         Industrial center.

*GURGAON:            Industrial center.

*SULTANPUR:         Bird sanctuary, Migratory birds.

*HATHNI KUND:    Fishing.

*KALESAR:              Wildlife sanctuary.

*HISAR:                    Palaces, Mosques, Fort, Livestock center.

*HANSI:                    Historic town, Fort, Temples.

*JHAJJAR:               Ancient town, Palace, Museum, Gurukul.

*JIND:                       Palace.

*KARNAL:                Historic walled town, Livestock center.

*CHAKRAVARTI LAKE: Picnic spot, Boating, Fishing.

*KURUKSHETRA:  Historic town, Pilgrim center, Temples, Sacred tank

*MORNI:                  Hill resort, Bir Shikargarh Wildlife sanctuary.

*NARNAUL:             Antiquities.

*PANIPAT:                Historic town, Babar’s Mosque and Tank, Tombs

*PEHOWA:                Hindu pilgrim center, Temples.

*PINJAUR:                Asia’s best 17th century Gardens, Boating.

*ROHTAK:                Boating, Wrestling center, Excavations.

*SOHNA:                   Sulphur springs.

*SURAJKUND:        Temple ruins, Forts, nearby Boating, Fishing, and Health Resort.

 

*Towns with good accommodation.                                                   Best season: October-April. 

 

 

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RAJASTHAN

  6

 

Rajasthan, the largest state of India, is the land of vibrant colours and breathtaking variety. The land of proud people whose chivalry, pride, honour and martial traditions are legendary. It is the land that revives age-old legends of brave Hadi Rani, of the beautiful Padmini of Chittaurgarh, the pious Mira Bai and the love stories of Dhola- Maru and Moomal- Mahendra of Marwar. A bewitching state with so much to offer…imposing forts, magnificent palaces and haveli’s, exquisite monuments and temples, rich heritage, culture and art, beautiful gardens, enchanting lakes and exotic wildlife.

 

PLACES OF INTEREST

 

 

*AJMER:                   Dargah of Sufi Saint Moin-ud-din Chisti, Mayo (Princess) College, Museum, Fort, Lake.

*FOY SAGAR:          Lake-side picnic spot, Fishing.

*PUSHKAR:              Hindu pilgrim center, Lord Brahma’s temple, Camel fair.

*ALWAR:                  Fort, Palace, and Museum.

*SILISERH:              Palace, Lake, Fishing, water birds.

*BAYANA:                Historic Fort.

*BHARATPUR:        Fort, Palace, and Museum.

*DIG(DEEG):            Palaces, Forts, Gardens.

*KEOLADEO NATIONAL PARK: Largest water bird sanctuary in India.

*BIKANER:              Fort, Palace, Museum, Desert Town, Handicrafts, and Temples.

*DESHNOK:             Karni Devi Temple, famous haven of rats.

*GAJNER:                 Wildlife sanctuary.

*BUNDI:                    Fortress, Palace overlooking lakes.

*BIJOLIA:                 Temples, Fort, Sculpture.

*CHITTAURGARH:‘City of Valour’, Frt, Temples, Palaces, Memorials, and Tower of Victory.

*CHURU:                   Havelis, Frescoes, Sand dunes.

*JAIPUR:                   ‘The Pink City’, a fine example of Medieval Town Planning, Forts, Palaces, ancient Observatory, Handicrafts, Museums.

*AMER:                     Ancient Capital, Palace, Temples.

*GAITOR:                 Cenotaphs and Palace.

*GALTA:                   Temples, Picnic site, Mineral springs.

*JAMWA RAMGARH: Wildlife sanctuary, Lake-side picnic spot.

*SANGANER:           Famous Textile block printing center, Temples, Ruins of Palaces.

*JAISALMER:          Desert town, Palace, Fort, Jain Temples, Library, Mansions, Citadel, Cenotaphs, Camel and Sheep’s hair handicrafts.

*AKAL WOOD FOSSIL PARK: Fossils 180 million years old.

*SAM:                        Sand dunes, Camel safari, Landscape study.

*JAISAMAND:         Largest artificial lake in Asia, Boating, Fishing, Picnic spot, Marble Palace, Tribal area, Wildlife Sanctuary.

*JHALAWAR:          Fort, Museum, Scenic Landscape.

*JHALARAPATAN:‘City of bells’, Old Cave, Temples.

*JHUNJHUNUN:      The capital of Shekhawati-‘The Open-Air Art Gallery’, Frescoes, Havelis.

*JODHPUR:              Fort, Museum, Palace, Handicrafts, Cenotaphs, Temples.

*MANDORE:            Ancient Capital, Ruins of Palaces and Temples, Garden.

*OSIAN:                    Ancient Hindu and Jain Temples, Sand Dunes.

*KOTA:                      Industrial center, City Walls, Museums.

*BANLOLI:               Old Temple, complex.

*DARRAH:               Wildlife sanctuary.

*KUMBHALGARH: Ancient Citadel, Fort, and Temples.

*MOUNT ABU:        Hill resort, Pilgrim center, Lake, Temples, Parks, Gardens, Boating, Wildlife sanctuary.

*ACHALGARTI:      Fort, Temples, and Lake.

*DILWARA:              Exquisite Jain Temples and Pilgrim center.

*NAGAUR:                Fort, Murals in Temple, Largest camel fair, Darga Bade Peer Sahib.

*PILANI:                   Educational center, Frescoes.

*RANAKPUR:          Jain Temple complex, Sculptures.

*RANTHAMBHOR: Fort, Temple, National Park, Tiger Reserve.

*SAMBHAR:                        Largest salt lake in India.

*SARISKA:               Wildlife sanctuary.

*UDAIPUR:               Lakes, Palaces, Handicrafts, Museum, Fountains.

*AHAR:                     Archaeological excavations of ancient capital.

*EKIINGJI:               Temple.

*NATHDWARA:      Hindu pilgrim center, Temples.

*KANKROLI:           Pilgrim center.

 

*Town with good accommodation.                                                                 Best session: Oct-March.

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UTTAR PRADESH

  7

 

Uttar Pradesh, the holy land of Ganga and Yamuna, is a place never-ending history and unlimited legends. For instance the ghats at Varanasi never fail to fascinate. Just like the tales of Rani of Jhansi, the faint echoes of striking swords at Kalinjar in Bundelkhand. The Triveni (confluence of three holy rivers Ganga Yamuna and Saraswati) at Allahabad and the culture and architecture of Avadh at Lucknow. The wonderful Taj Mahal and Mughal splendour at Agra and Fatehpur Sikri, and the route to Nirvana at Sarnath. The rich and colourful history of the state goes back to Vedic times. The state finds mention in Rig Veda as Brahmarishi Desa or Madhya Desa. Great sages of Vedic times flourished here, which include Bharadwaja, Yajnavalkya, Vasishta, Viswamitra and Valmiki etc. Many sacred books of the Aryans were also composed here during that time. The state also features prominently in the two great epics of India, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. In 6 century B.C.U.P. became great center of two new religions Jainism and Buddhism. Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, is said to have breathed his last at Doora, and Sarnath was the venue where Buddha preached his first sermon. Later on, several great centers of learning like Ayodhya, Prayag, Varanasi and Mathura emerged here. In medieval period U.P.passed into the hands of Muslim rulers, and a fine blend Hindu and Islamic cultures can be witnessed here, with great contributions from sage- poets like Ramananda and his Muslim disciple Kabir, Tulsidas and Birbal etc. The state went on to play a very significant role in the national politics in the pre and post independence era.

Uttar Pradesh, the land of diverse culture is today known for its secular character, and is studded with temples and monuments of all religions, viz., Hindu, Muslim as well as Buddhist. U.P.is also the heartland of Hindu, the principal indigenous language of India. It is endowed with rich natural wealth, and is the largest producer of food grains and oilseeds in the country. It is also known as ‘India’s sugarcane bowl’, as about 43 lakh tones of sugarcane is produced annually; which is about one half of the total production in the country.

 

PLACES OF INTEREST

 

*AGRA:                     Taj Mahal, Palaces, Fort, Mausoleums, Gardens.

*SIKANDRA:            Akbar’s Mausoleum.

*ALIGARH:              Fort, Mosque, Aligarh Muslim University.

*ALLAHABAD:        Hindu Pilgrim center, Sacred Sangam (Kumb Mela is held here once in 12 years), Forts, Temples, Center of Hindi literature, Muslim cultural center, libraries.

*BHITA:                    Archaeological excavations.

*AYODHYA:             One of the seven sacred cities of the Hindus, Birthplace of Lord Rama, temples.

*BAREILLY: Mosque.

*CHUNAR:                Fort, nearby Pilgrim center.

*DUDWA:                  National Park.

*ETAWAH:                Cattle fair.

*FAIZABAD: Muslim monuments.

*FATEHPURSIRKI: Ancient capital of Akbar, Forts, Palaces, Mosques, Tombs.

*GORAKHPUR:       Temples, Railway maintenance center.

*JAUNPUR:              Indo-Saracenic architecture.

*JHANSI:                  Fort.

*KANNAUJ:              Ancient capital Ruins.

*KANPUR:                Industrial center, Temple, Church, Museum, Gardens.

*KUSHINAGAR:      Buddhist pilgrim center Ruins.

*LUCKNOW:            State capital, Muslim cultural center, Gardens, Historic buildings and architecture.

*MATHURA:            One of the seven sacred cities of the Hindus, Ancient city, Birth place of Lod Krishna, Temples, Mosques, Museums.

*SONKA:                   archaeological excavations.

*VRINDAVAN:        The town of thousand shrines, associated with Lord Krishna, Ashrams.

*MIRZAPUR:           Handicrafts, Temples.

*MORADABAD:      Mosque, Metal handicrafts.

*SRAVASTI:             Ruins of ancient Buddhist city, Stupas.

*VARANASI:            One of seven sacred cities oh Hindus, Center of learning, Temples, Mosques, Palaces, Metal handicrafts, Silk Saries, Banaras Hindu University.

*RAMNAGAR:         Fort, Palaces.

*SARNATH:              Major Buddhist pilgrim center, Museums, Monastries and Shrines, Old Stupas.

 

*Town with good accommodation.                                                                             Best season: Oct.-March     

 

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BIHAR

8

 

Bihar gets its name from Vihara or Buddhist monaster, as this is the land from where the great religion of Buddhism started and spread all over the world. The state has a very ancient, glorious and colourful history. Some of the great rulers and dynasties which held sway over the region before the Christian era include Bibisara; Udayin, who founded the city of Patliputra; Chandragupta Maurya and Ashoka the Great of the Mauryan dynasty; the Sungas, Kanvas and Kushan rulers followed by Chandragupta Vikramditya of Gupta dynasty. During the medieval times it came under the regime of Muslim rulers, and they went into the hands of Britishers. Great religions flourished here, and was an important center of learning, where students from all over the world came to study.

 

PLACES OF INTEREST

 

*BARAUNI:              Industrial center.

*BHAGALPUR:        Silk center.

*BODH GAYA:         Most sacred Buddhist pilgrim center, Bodhi tree, Stupas, Museum.

*BUXAR:                   Hindu pilgrim center.

*DARBHANGA:       Center of Maithili culture and handicrafts.

*GAYA:                      Major Buddhist & Hindu pilgrim center.

*KISHANGANJ:       Pilgrim center.

*KATIHAR:              Major railway junction.

*MADHUBANI:       Maithili cultural center and home of Madhubani paintings.

*MANER:                  Muslim pilgrim center.

*MUNGER:               Historic city.

*MUZAFFARPUR:   Lichi orchards, Commercial center.

*NALANDA:             Ruins of ancient Buddhist University, Museum, Buddhist research institute.

*BIHAR SHARIF:    Muslim pilgrim center, Tombs.

*KUNDALPUR:        Jain pilgrim center.

*RAJGIR:                  Ancient Buddhist cultural center, Jain pilgrim center, Temple, Fort, Mineral spring, Hill station.

*PATNA:                    Museums, Golghar Granary, Mosques, Ruins of ancient city Patliputra, Sikh pilgrim center, Oriental library, Ashram, Archaeological site, hemispheric silo.

*SASARAM:             Antiquities, Mausoleum, and Lake.

*SITAMARHI:          Pilgrim center, Ramnavami mela (fair).

*VAISHALI:              Ancient capital, Buddhist & Jain pilgrim center, Museums, Ashok Pillar.

 

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JHARKHAND

 9

 

The newly formed Jharkhand is the 28th state of the Indian union. It was carved out of Bihar on 15th November 2000. This landlocked state covers an area of 79,714 sq. km., and is bounded by Bihar in the north, Orissa in the south, West Bengal in the east and Chhattisgarh in the west. This mineral rich state consists of succession of thickly wooded hills, mainly inhabited by tribals. The region although endowed with rich natural resources is considered to be one of the most backward regions of the country. Thus for the development of the tribal region, Bihar Government signed an agreement with the Centre on Sept. 26, 1994to set up a ‘General Council’ for the 18 districts falling in the Jharkhand area. In 1997 the Bihar assembly recommended the creation of Jharkhand state to the Centre. The state ranks at the top in terms of mineral production in the country. It is the sole producer of coking coal, pyrites and uranium, and leading producer of coal and mica. Industries based on iron ore, coal etc. are spread around Jamshedpur, Bokaro, Ranchi, Dhanbad etc. In 1908 India’s first integrated iron and steel mill was established at Jamshedpur, by Jamshedji Tata. Since independence jamor industrial projects have been undertaken by the Government of India in this region, which include Bokaro steel mill in the Damodar alley project and Bharat Heavy Electricals at Ranchi.

 

PLACES OF INTEREST

 

 

*BOKARO:               Steel city.

*DEPGHAR:             Hindi pilgrim center.

*DHANBAD:             Coal capital of India, Research institutes.

*TOPCHANCHI:      Lake-side picnic spot, Boating, Wildlife sanctuary.

*DUMKA:                 Scenic beauty and quiet vacation spot.

*GHATSHILA:          Scenic beauty and quiet vacation spot, nearby Copper mines.

*HAZARIBAGH:      Beautiful town, Holiday spot.

*HAZARIBAGH NATIONAL PARK: Exotic wildlife.

*JASIDIH:                 Rose Garden.

*JAMSHEDPUR:     ‘Steel City’, Modern India’s first planned city, Industrial center, Gardens.

*JHARIA:                  Coal town.

*KODARMA:           Mica capital of India.

*MADHUPUR:         Holiday station.

*NETARHAT:           ‘Queen of Chotanagpur’ pretty Hill resort.

*PALAMAU:             Mandu national park, Tiger Reserve Sanctuary.

*PARASNATH:         Most sacred Jain Pilgrim center, Lord Mahavira achieved nirvana at this spot, Twenty for shrines dedicated on eper tirthankara, including the main Parasnath temple are located here. Also a major shrine for Santhal tribals.

*RANCHI:                 State capital Hill an Health resort, Jagannath temple, Waterfalls, Sunset points, Picnic spots,

*MACLUSKIEGANJ: Vacation site, considered to be haven for Anglo-Indians.

*HUNDRU FALLS:  Most picturesque falls, especially during rpansoons.

*SINDRI:                   Industrial center, Lake, Boating.

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   WEST BENGAL & SIKKIM

10

 

West Bengal, the 13th largest state, stretches from the foot hills of Himalayas in the north to the Bay of Bengal in the south. Gopalkrishna Gokhale once said, “What Bengal thinks today, India thinks tomorrow.” Bengal can perhaps be justifiably proud of producing men and women whose ideas helped to shape modern India. Ram Mohan Roy, Vidyasagar, Ramkrishna and Vivekanand, lead social and religious movements. Bankimchandra Chatterjje, Madhusudan Dutta, Rabindranath Tagore among others ushered in an era of new literature. A movement to evolve a true ‘Indian art form’ found its expression in Gaganendranath Tagore, Nandlal Bose, Jamini Roy and others. Proscenium theatre came into the country with Satyajit Ray. In this land, India’s freedom movement found some of the great sons like Sir Suren Banerjee, C.R.Das, Netaji S.C.Bose, Maulana Azad, as it drew inspiration from Rishi Aurobindo. Bengal, indeed, a proud land of no less than 5 Nobel Laureates (Tagore, Raman, Ronald Ross, Teresa & Amartya Sen) is also known for its sweet language, appreciative audiences, connoisseurs of art and culture and for a highly cultured people.

Sikkim, the 22nd state of the Indian Union, is a small cute mountain state in the eastern Himalayas. The state, very rich in flora and fauna, is today, providing an enchanting new world of friendly, extroverted people, serene monastic settlements and fabulous vistas.

 

PLACES OF INTEREST

 

 

WEST BENGAL—

*ASANSOL:              Industrial center.

*BAKRESHWAR:    Hot springs, Hindu pilgrim center.

*BETHUADAHARI: Wildlife sanctuary.

*BISHNUPUR:          Temples, Ruins of ancient capital. Fort, Terracotta works.

*BOK-KHALI:          Beach.

*CHITTARANJAN: Industrial center, manufacture of locomotives.

*KOLKATA:             Howrah bridge, Gardens, Museums, Temples, Churches, Mosques, Libraries, Cultural center, Planetarium, Fort, Sporting center, Monuments, Zoo, Metro Railway, Tramways, Memorials, Boating, Lakes.

*BELUR:                   Ramakrishna Mission Headquarters.

*DAKSHINESHWAR: Temples.

*CHANDANNAGAR: French relics, Churches, Temples, Handlooms.

*CHUNCHURA:       Dutch relics.

*BANDEL:                Portuguese relics, Church, Picnic spot.

*BANSBARIA:         Temples.

*DARJILING:           Major hill resort, Trekking, Himalayan Mountaineering institute, Museums & Art Galleries, Temples, Handicrafts, Fishing, Zoological gardens, Tea Estates, Ropeway, Horse-racing.

*GHUM:                    Buddhist monasteries.

*MINK:                     Hill resort with view of the Himalayas, Lake, Oranges, Temples, Treks.

*SHILIGURI:            Toy Train to Darjilling, base to visit Bhutan and Nepal by road.

*DIAMOND HARBOUR: Riverine picnic spot, Fort.

*DIGHA:                    Beach resort, nearby Temples.

*DURGAPUR:          Major industrial center, Gardens, Deer park, Toy train.

*GAUR:                     Ancient capital of Bengal, Mosques, Ruins, Museum, Handicrafts.

*JAIRAMBATI—KAMARPUKUR: pilgrim center.

*JALDHAPARA:      Wildlife sanctuary.

*JANPUT:                  Beach, Fishing.

*KAKDWIP:              Sugar mela.

*KALIMPANG:        Hill station, Plantations, Handicrafts, Handlooms, Buddhist Monastery.

*KANGSABATI:       Dam-site picnic spot.

*KARSIYANG:         Small hill station, Scenic beauty, Buddhist Monastery, Gardens.

*KOCH BIHAR:       Palace Temples.

*KRISHNANAGAR: Palace, Clay Handicrafts.

*MURSHIDABAD:  Ancient capital and metropolis, Palaces, Mosques, Handloom, Buddhist Monastery.

*NAVADWIP:           Pilgrim center, Temples.

*SANDAKPHU:        Spectacular view of the Himalayas.

*SENCHAL:              Wildlife sanctuary, View of Mount Everest & Kanchenjunga, Scenic beauty, Golf Lake.

*SHANTI NIKETAN:  Tagore’s Viswa Bharathi University of fine Arts, Cultural festivals, Handloom textiles, Deer and Bird sanctuary.

*SRINIKETAN:        Handicrafts and Gardens.

*SHRIRAMPUR:      Christian Missionary Center, Temples, Handlooms.

*SUNDERBANS:      Wildlife sanctuary.

*TARKESHWAR:    Hindu pilgrim center.

*ANTPUR:                 Hindu pilgrim center, Handloom, Terracotta temple art.

*TARAPITH:             Hindu pilgrim center, Temples.

 

SIKKIM----

*GANGTOK:             Handicrafts, trekking, Palace, Tibetan Research Institute, Orchid sanctuary, Deer park, Dodrul Chorten, Monasteries, Botanical gardens.

*LACHUNG:             Waterfalls, Yak Country, Scenic beauty.

*YUKSOM:               Mini lakes, Scenic beauty, Training base for Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Historic Town, Brewery.

*YUMTHANG:         Yak country, Hot springs.

 

*Town with good accommodation.                                                                       Best season: October—March

 

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NORTH EASTERN STATES

11

 

North Eastern States, or the ‘Land of Seven Sisters’, viz., the seven states—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura, is a land of perhaps the most colourful people on the earth. These states with natural grandeur have immense agricultural and industrial potentials, which are yet to be tapped. It is a most fascinating land of Brahmaputra with tropical forests, lush green landscape. The place of highest rainfall in the world, Mawsynram, is also on this land. It is also called the ‘Tea Basket’ of India. The region is blessed with a very rich variety of exotic flora and fauna, including the most famous one-horned Indian rhino.

PLACES OF INTEREST

 

ARUNACHAL PRADESH:

*ALONG:                   Ramakrishna Ashram, Tribal temples, nearby waterfalls, Archaeological remains of Malinithan.

*BHISMAK NAGAR: Ruins of Temple & Fort.

*BOMDILLA:           Scenery, Buddhist temples, Handicrafts, Museum, visits to Rupa and Dhirang valleys.

*ITANAGAR:            Ruins of ancient Mayapur nearby, Botanical gardens, Fishing, Buddhist Temple, Dony-Polo tribal temple.

*PARASURAM KUND: Hindu pilgrim center, Lake.

*PASHIGHAT:        Scenic beauty.

*TAWANG:               Monastery.

*VIJAYA NAGAR:  Remains of Buddhist center, Tribals.

ASSAM: --

*BARPETA:              Temples, Cultural center, Vaishnava monastery.

*CHANDUBI:           Laks-side, Picnic spot, Fishing.

*DARRANG:            Small trading town, winter picnic spot on river bed, Oranges.