about LEH LADAKH
Travellers flock to Ladakh from all corners of the globe. This trans-Himalayan district of Jammu and Kashmir has now become a favourite of both adventure freaks and culture enthusiasts. As a specialist Leh-Ladakh travel management company, we provide you with both destination and product knowledge and wish to offer you some great real life experiences during your holidays in Ladakh.

Leh, the capital of Ladakh is situated at a height of 3505 meters and is towards the eastern parts of Jammu and Kashmir. The region is watered by the Zanskar River, which flows into the Indus River just below. Spilling out of a side valley that tapers north towards eroded snow-capped peaks, the Ladakhi capital sprawls from the foot of a ruined Tibetan style palace - a maze of mud-brick and concrete flanked on one side by cream-coloured desert, and on the other by a swathe of lush irrigated farmland. As one approaches Leh India for the first time, via the sloping seep of dust and pebbles that divide if from the floor of the Indus Valley, one will have little difficulty imagining how the old trans -Himalayan traders must have felt as they plodded in on the caravan routes from Yarkhand and Tibet: a mixture of relief at having crossed the mountains in one piece, and anticipation of a relaxing spell in one of central Asia's most scenic and atmospheric towns. Leh in India is a beautiful destination with so many attractions and is the center of Tibeto-Buddhist Culture for ages. Its colorful gompas have attracted the devout Buddhists from all over the globe. Besides, it is also a favorite hiking locale and is known for some of the best hikes in the country. Travel to leh this vacation to enjoy its mystic beauty, nut before that acquaint yourself a little bit about the past and present of Leh India

HISTORY
LADAKH is a mysterious land shrouded in myth and legend. Much of its ancient history is known only through the mythology of its people as its written history is of very recent origin. Known for centuries as the 'land of passes' (La-pass; Dakh-land), Ladakh was described by Fa-hian, who travelled across its inhospitable terrain in 399 A.D. as 'The land where snow never melts and only corn ripens'.

Very little is known for certain about Ladakh prior to the 7th century. In the 7th and 8th centuries Tibetanisation of Ladakh began. Kashmiri artistic influence can still be seen in the wood carvings of the early monasteries at Lamayuru and Alchi, and early Kashmiri Buddhist bronze statues are found in several Ladakh monasteries. At the end of the 9th century, central Tibetan culture began to heavily influence the history, culture and religious development of Ladakh. The rulers of Tibet, known as the Yarlung Dynasty, steadily expanded Tibet's borders, being strong enough to place a puppet emperor on the Chinese throne in 768 AD. Only when the Islamic kingdom to Tibet's west allied itself with China was Tibet forced to stop its military expansionism. Increasing tension developed between the followers of Buddhism and those of Tibet's earlier religious belief - Bon or Bon-Shamanism. Tsong-Kha-pa, a famous commentator on Tibetan Buddhism (1357-1419) became the founder of the Gelug pa, or yellow-hat sect in the 14th century. His followers who came to Ladakh at the end of the 15th century, established Spitok, the first Gelug pa gompa in Ladakh. Other gompas already established in Ladakh gradually began to follow this new religious order

In the early 18th century, the king began appointing village elders to assist in ruling. This practice was probably the basis of the village headman tradition that is still current. Printing presses to produce religious texts were also introduced at this time. All religious texts are still written in Tibetan: further testimony to Tibetan influence in Ladakh.

In the 18th century Sikh rule was established over Jammu and Kashmir. A general in the Jammu army, Zorawar Singh, invaded Ladakh in what became known as the Dogra Invasion of 1834. Leh Palace was heavily damaged and the King of Ladakh retreated to Stok, where the family still lives (the most recent king was crowned in 1992).

GEOGRAPHY
Ladakh is the largest province within the North Indian State of Jammu and Kashmir, covering approximately 60,000 square miles (100,000 sq. km). It is surrounded and bisected by some of the highest mountain ranges in the world.

Its landscapes are forbidding by any measure. Snow-swathed mountains rise to several thousand feet above one of the most elevated plateux on earth. A treeless wind-swept country, much of Ladakh can be termed as mountains, Arctic desert, where everything is parched bt the rarefied dryness of the atmosphere. Scattered here and there, a few narrow fertile valleys provide a stark contrast to an otherwise barren, beautiful country of intense sunlight and clear sparkling air.

The limpidity of the atmosphere, in fact gives the night sky a unique clarity, so full and bright with stars that one feels transported to some etheral setting far removed from earth. For endless years, mad had even discovered this remote land, several hardy animals and birds lived together here in an exquisite equilibrium. Circumstances have now changed as they have almost everywhere else on the subcontinent. Today, Ladakh's flora and fauna are threatened and protection is vital if the ancient ecosystems are to survive the trauma of modern man. Through the fabric of this account runs a strong statement, that the armed forces possible contribution to conservation remains untapped. Harnessing this vital potential force may be the single most important conservation advance India could make in the battle to save what remains of its natural wealth.

Major Tourist Destinations LADAKH is situated between 30 degree to 36 degree east latitude and 76 degree to 79 degree north longitude. The region of Ladakh spread over to an area of 96,701 Sq. Kms and comprising a population of 2 Lakhs habitants and consists of two districts, Leh and Kargil. The region of Ladakh normally remains land locked between November to June every year as Srinagar-Ladakh and Ladakh-Manali highways, which connect Ladakh with the other parts of the country, remain closed during this period because of snow and rigorous winter.

Ladakh is also the land of many lakes and springs. Among the springs,the famous are the sulphar springs of Panamic(Nobra), Chumathang and Puga of Changthang ,which are famous for early curing of joints/rheumatic diseases. Many mineral springs are also found in some remote parts of Ladakh. People of region use the spring water as medicine to prevent and cure themselves from many diseases. The important lakes which fall within the jurisdiction of Ladakh are Pangong lake (150 Kms.long, 4 Kms. wide situated at a height of 14,000 ft.).

Tsomoriri lake, (Tsokar means salty lake). Since ancient times till the end of 1959 salt was being extricated from this particular salty lake for human consumption. Ladakh has two districts namely Leh and Kargil which stand in contrast with each other in terms of geography and climate. The great Himalaya mountain,lying to the south ,forms a barrier to monsoon in this area. Due to this region Ladakh is an isolated cold desert region. Altitude in Ladakh varies from place to place and is the main factor affecting local climate. The winter temp. touches as low as minus 30 degree(Leh & Kargil) and minus 60 degree in (Drass) subzero temp. prevails from December to February throughout Ladakh, whereas, zero degree temp. is experienced during rest of winter months. This result in freezing of all conceivable water resources. During summer the maximum temp. increases from 20 degree C to 38 degree C in July and August. The relative humidity is low and ranges from 31 to 64 percent.

Religion
The predominant religion in Ladakh is the Tibetan form of Buddhism, although Islamic influences are found from the Kashmir Valley as far as Kargil, and there are some Christian families in Leh.

The Tibetan influence in Ladakh is manifest: all religious books and prayers are in the Tibetan language, the monastic orders in the gompas are those developed in Tibet and the gompa artwork is clearly Tibetan in origin. Even the architectural design of Leh Palace is very similar to that of Lhasa's Potala Palace. Tibetan Buddhism is built on an earlier Tibetan religion - Bon or Bon-Shamanism - and it incorporated many of Bon's demons and gods. It similarly incorporated many of the gods in the Hindu pantheon, transforming them into Bodhisattavas or different incarnations or manifestations of various personalities.

The walls of Ladakh's gompas are covered with illustrations of the Lord Buddha, his manifestations and followers, and the incorporated Bon and Hindu guardian deities in their various incarnations. It all makes for colourful and varied wall murals in every Ladakh gompa.

The monasteries follow each of the two main sects of Buddhism that developed in Tibet: the Karyu pa or red-hat sect and the Gelug pa or yellow-hat sect. The Dalai Lama, believed to be a reincarnation of the Boddhisattva Avalokitesvara, is the head of the Gelug-pa sect.

The gompas represent the monastic side of Buddhism, or lamaism. The lamaist side of Buddhism, requiring lon tation, contrasts with the everyday practice of Buddhism by Ladakhi lay people.

People
The Mon, a term applied by Tibetan-speaking peoples to valley-dwellers, are probably the builders of many of the castles found in Ladakh, particularly those in the Zanskar Valley. The Mon were early Buddhists who derived their religion directly from India; thus, their form of Buddhism does not show the Chinese or Tibetan Tantric influences so prevalent in the later monasteries of Ladakh. Today the Mon are musicians in many Ladakhi villages, providing musical accompaniment to secular occasions such as social gatherings, parties or marriage ceremonies.

The Dards, also agriculturists like the Mon, similarly arrived in Ladakh sometime before the 7th century and settled primarily in the Dras Valley. Having converted to Islam in the 17th century, little remains of their prior religious practices. Traditionally, the men's dress is a goncha, a long maroon or brown gown of heavy wool tied with a bright pink sash slightly below the waist, although any men now wear western clothes.

Women do not wear western dress as frequently; their goncha is slightly more fitted than the men's version, gathered into small pleats near the waist and worn with a brocade or goatskin cape (fur side turned towards the wearer) on the back. Alternatively, women wear a buckoo, a sleeveless wrap-around dress, although this is more typical of Tibetans than Ladakhis.

Women usually wear their hair in two long braids and a Kantop, a sort of top hat with part of the front cut out. The Dard women of Baltistan wear distinctive head-dresses of orange ribbons curled to look like flowers, while Ladakhi women wear peroks - head-dresses with brown fur side flaps and a large band decorated with turquoise and coral reaching from their forehead to part way down their back.

TOURIST ATTRACTION

Leh Palace
The beautiful nine story 17th century palace was the residence of the royal family. The royal palace resembles a mini-Potala Palace. The palace house Buddhist paintings on walls and artifacts. On the top of the Namgyal hill, the palace has the Victory Tower, built to commemorate Ladakh's victory over the Balti Kashmir armies in the early 16th century. The palace was built for King Singge Namgyal, It serves as Indian Government's archaeological conservation organization office in Leh.

Leh Monastery and Gompa
The central area of Ladakh has the greatest concentration of major Buddhist monasteries or gompas. Of the twelve situated on or near the Indus, the oldest monastery is that of Lamayuru, which is believed to have been a sacred site for the pre-Buddhist religion known as Bon. The monasteries of Phiyang, Hemis and Chemrey were all founded under the direct patronage of members of the ruling Namgyal dynasty. Phyang represents an act of penance by the 16th century King Tashi Namgyal for the violence and treachery by which he reached the throne.

Spituk Monastery
The gompa stands prominently on the top of a hillock, 8 Kms. from Leh, and commands a panoramic view of the Indus Valley for miles. Many icons of Buddha and five thankas are found in 15th century monastery. There is also a collection of ancient masks, antique arms, and an awe inspiring image of Mahakal

Shanti Stupa
Shanti Stupa (means 'World Peace' in Japanese) was built by a Japanese who harbored the ambition of spreading Buddhism across the world, in 1985 with aid from the Japanese Government. It is located at Changspa, on the hilltop, and was inaugurated by Dalai Lama in 1985. Its state of the art work attracts a lot of tourists to Ladakh and is spectacular to watch. The stupa is connected by a ‘motorable’ road and a steep flight of stairs. Once on top, you can stop for a snack in the tea shop, then relax and enjoy the panoramic view of the chain of mountains and the peaceful little village of Changspa with typical Ladakhi houses built along a gushing stream, and the towering Namgyal Tsemo in the distance.

Namgyal Tsemo Gompa
The Namgyal Tsemo Gompa was built in 1430 by King Tashi Namgyal on Namgyal Tsemo peak overlooking the town. The monastery contains a three-story high solid gold idol of Maitrieya Buddha (future Buddha also called laughing buddha) and a one-storied statue of Avaloketesvara and Manjushri along with ancient manuscripts and frescoes. The fort above this gompa is ruined, but the views of Leh from here are breathtakingly beautiful. The associated temples here remain intact, but they are kept locked except during the morning and evening hours when a monk toils up the hills from Sankar Gompa to attend to the butter - lamps in front of the images.

Sankar Gonpa
The Sankar Gonpa is a couple of kilometers away from Leh town. It belongs to the Gelukspa school of Tibetan Buddhism. This small Gonpa is a branch of the Spituk Monastery, founded by the first incarnation of Skyabje Bakula (head monk of Spituk)

Shey Gompa
15 Kms upstream from Le, . the palace is believed to have been the seat of power of the pre-Tibetan kings. A 7.5 metre high copper statue of Buddha, plated with gold, and the largest of its kind, is installed in the palace

Soma Gonpa (Jokhang), Leh
The Ladakh Buddhist Association in 1957 built the small Gonpa opposite to SBI, in the main bazaar, which is open throughout the day for visitors. The Gonpa contains a statue of Joyo Rinpochey (crowned Buddha).

Leh Mosque
The striking green and white Leh Mosque, an exquisite work of Turko-Iranian architecture, stand in the Main Bazaar of Leh. This historical mosque was built in 1666-67 A.D. consequent to an agreement between the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and then ruler of Ladakh, Deldan Namgyal. The mosque is open only to men. This is also a good place to find out about the possibility of doing voluntary work with various organizations. If interested, inquire at the reception centre or simply check the information board.

Stok Palace Museum
17 km from Leh town, this museum exhibits precious stones, thangkas, coins, royal crowns and dresses and prayer instruments.

The Nubra Valley
Known as a flowering den Nubra valley gets clad in endless bushes of yellow and pink wild roses. Once the valley is through with the season of roses around August, a carpet of wild lavender lies gently on it. Nubra is also a relatively warmer valley in Ladakh making it perfect for crops and fruits to grow. Diskit Village located near Khalsar, dotted with apricot plantations is one of the larger village of the Nubra valley. The road between Diskit and the quaint little Hunder Village winds through a gorgeous stretch of sand dunes. A quiet and pleasant evening can be spent amidst nature with snowcapped peaks in the background.

Pangong Lake
This lake is situated at a elevation of 14,000ft. In the Eastern sector of Ladakh, at a distance of 154km. from Leh across Changla pass (17,000ft.). This lake is one of the largest and most beautiful natural brakish lakes in the Country.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Location of Ladakh India
A land of freezing winds and burning hot sunlight, Ladakh is a cold desert lying in the rain shadow of the Great Himalayas and other smaller ranges. Little rain and snow reaches this dry area, where natural forces have created a fantastic landscape. Surrounded by rugged mountains this land is completely different from the green landscape of many parts of the Himalayas. Bounded by two of the world's mightiest mountain ranges, the Great Himalaya and the Karokaram, it is a land which has no match.

Formation of Ladakh India
In geological terms, this is a young land, formed only a few million years ago by the buckling and folding of the earth's crust as the Indian sub-continent pushed with irresistible force against the immovable mass of Asia. Its basic contours, uplifted by these unimaginable tectonic movements, have been modified over the millennia by the opposite process of erosion, sculpted into the form we see today by wind and water.

Water in Ladakh India
The main source of water in this land remains the winter snowfall. Ladakh was once covered by an extensive lake system, the vestiges of which still exist on its south -east plateaux of Rupshu and Chushul - in drainage basins with evocative names like Tso-moriri, Tsokar,and grandest of all, Pangong-tso.

Temperature in Ladakh India
The temperature rarely exceeds 27 degree celcuis in summer while in winter it may drop to minus 20 degree celcuis
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Administrative Divisions in Ladakh India
Made up of two administrative districts - Leh and Kargil, Ladakh covers a total area of about 59,000 square kilometers. Leh is the chief town.

People & Lifestyle in Ladakh India
Allied ethnologically and geographically with the Tibet region of China, the area has a predominantly Lamaist Buddhist population. It was nominally a dependency of Tibet. After 1531 it was invaded periodically by Muslims from Kashmir; it was annexed to Kashmir in the mid-19th cent.

However todays Ladakh which forms a part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir in India has some of its areas under the illegal occupation of Pakistan and China.

Influence of Buddhism in Ladakh
Buddhism reached Tibet from India via Ladakh, and there are ancient Buddhist frock engravings all over the region, even in areas like Drass and the lower Suru valley which today are inhabited by an exclusively Muslim population.

The approach to a Buddhist Village is invariably marked by 'Mani' walls, which are ling chest-high structures faced with engraved stones bearing the Mantra "Om Mane Padme Hum" and by 'Chorten', commemorative cairns, like stone pepper-posts. Many villages are crowned with a 'Gompa' or monastery, which may be anything from an imposing complex of temples, prayer halls and monks' dwellings, to a tiny hermitage housing a single image and home to a solitary Lama

Women of Ladakh
In Leh area women of both the communities, Buddhist and Muslim, enjoy a greater freedom than other parts of the region. They not only work in the house and field, but also do business and interact freely with men other than their own relations. In Kargil and its adjoining regions on the other hand, it is only in the last few years that women are merging from semi-seclusion and taking jobs other than traditional ones like farming and house-keeping

Traditional Rituals & Leisure Activities
The natural joie-de-vivre of the Ladakhis is given free rein by the ancient traditions of the region. Monastic and other religious festivals, many of which fall in winter, provide the excuse for convivial gatherings. Summer pastimes all over the region are archery and polo. Among the Buddhists, these often develop into open-air parties accompanied by dance and song, at which 'Chang', the local brew made from fermented barley, flows freely

Wedding Process
There is a mix of music and dance, joy and laughter, in the air whenever a marriage is held. The first day is spent in feasting at the bride's house, the second at the groom's place. The bride goes to live in the house of bridegroom after marriage. Boys are usually married or promised for marriage at about 16, girls at about 12. To make a proposal a relative of the boy goes to the house of the girl and gives a ring together with presents of butter, tea and 'Chang'. If the gifts are accepted then the marriage follows some months later. The boy offers a necklace and clothes to the girl. The parents of the girl give the couple clothes, animals and land if they are rich. These gifts are known as a "Raqtqaq" or dowry.

fairs & fastivals
Festivals in Ladakh are celebrated as the occasions for merry-making. These festivals provide people with ample opportunities to interact with each other, form new ties and renew the old ones.

Many of the annual festivals of the Gompas take place in winter, which is a relatively idle time for majority of the people. These take the form of dance-dramas in the gompa courtyards. Lamas, attired in colourful robes and wearing masks, perform mimes symbolising various aspects of the religion such as the progress of the individual soul and its purification or the triumph of good over evil. Local people flock from near and far to these events and the spiritual benefits they get are no doubt heightened by their enjoyment of the party atmosphere .

Hemis Festival in Ladakh
Hemis is the biggest and most famous of the monastic festivals.Ladakh is a storehouse of culture and adventure. The Buddhist culture in Ladakh has been inviting travellers for ages from all parts of the world. Fairs and festivals of Ladakh are a perfect mirror to the cultural practices and traditions that carry on in Ladakh. The Hemis Festival of Ladakh is a major crowd puller and holds a lot of significance in terms of culture. The festival, which runs for two days, is celebrated to mark the birth anniversary of the Buddhist guru Padmasambhava. The festivities of Hemis take place at the world-famous Hemis Gompa, located at a distance of 45 km from the capital town of Leh.

The two-day-long festival falls on the 10th day of the Tibetan Lunar month. According to Georgian calendar, it is the time during June and July..

Dosmoche Festival in Ladakh
Dosmoche, the festival of the scapegoat, is celebrated with fervor at Leh. Falling in the second half of February, Dosmoche is one of two New Year festivals, the other being Losar. At Dosmoche, a great wooden mast decorated with streamers and religious emblems is et up outside Leh. At the appointed time, offerings of storma, ritual figures moulded out of dough, are brought out and ceremonially cast away into the desert, or burnt. These scapegoats carry away with them the evil spirits of the old year, and thus the town is cleansed and made ready to welcome the new year. Spituk, stok, thikse, chemrey and Matho all have their festivals in winter, between November and March. Likir and Deskit (Nubra )time their festivals to coincide with Dosmoche.

Losar
Losar -this spectacular festival celebrates the Ladakhi/Tibetan new year. Festivities last for 2 weeks during December or January,depending on the Lunar calander . All Ladakhi Buddhists celebrate it by making offerings to the gods, both in gompas and in their domestic shrines. The festival is marked with ancient rituals,the stage fights between good & evil, chanting and passing through the crowds with fire torches. The dance of the Ibex deer and the dramatic battles between the King & his ministers add to the joyous atmosphere. Full of music,dancing and merry-making ! This important festival changes location & dates every year.

Sindhu Darshan
Sindhu Darshan Festival, as the name suggests, is a celebration of river Sindhu, also known as the Indus. People travel for a Darshan and Puja of the River Sindhu (Indus) which originates from the Mansarovar in Tibet. The Festival aims at projecting the Sindhu river as a symbol of multi-dimensional cultural identity, communal harmony and peaceful co-existence in India. Whilst promoting tourism in this area, this festival is also a symbolic salute to the brave soldiers of India who have valiantly fought the odds at Siachen, Kargil and other places.

It is also an opportunity for people from around the country and overseas to visit the beautiful regions of Leh and Ladakh. Celebrated first time in the year 1997, the festival is organised annually at Leh in the month of May-June by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir with the support of the Ministry of tourism and culture, Government of India. The festival is kaleidoscope of Indian culture and showcases an exciting array of performing arts being brought together at an exciting place. As part of the celebrations, various groups from different states in India bring water from the other mighty rivers in the country in earthen pots and immerse these pots in the Sindhu river, thereby mingling the river water with other waters of the land.

Ladakh Harvest Festival
The festival usually starts from 1st september and lasts till sepftember 15th. It is a colourful celebration of the rich,cultural diversity of Ladakh's people. The weeks long festivities are held all over the region. Music, theatre, polo, archery,& wedding ceremonies,are performed daily along with mask and folk dances,with the final carnival parade passing through the streets of Leh.

Ladakh Festival The blend of various cultures of Central Asian, Tibetan, Northern India are found in Ladakh.The duration of Ladakh festival is of 15 days i.e From the 1st to the 15th of September.Various sports such as polo and archery are conducted. Folk dances and songs, its age-old social And cultural ceremonies, its art and handicrafts, all come alive in a colorful kaleidoscope.

Tak -Tok Festival
Tak-Tok festival is celebrated at cave Gompa of Tak- Tok . It is among the major festivals of Ladakh. Celebrated in summer, it is yet another tourist attraction. The festival is celebrated with fanfare and locals from far-flung areas storm the place on the occasion.

Getting to leh ladakh

By Air
Leh has the highest airport in India, it is Just 8km away from the city centre and well connected to Delhi, Jammu, Chandigarh and Srinagar.

By Rail
Jammu is the nearest railway stations i.e. 620 kms from Leh. The station is well connected to all major cities with few express and regular trains.

By Road
Leh - Shrinagar road is the main route to leh which include a night halt at Kargil. You can try the regular or the deluxe buses operated by the Jammu and Kashmir start road transport or you can take private taxis.

about sasan gir

Sasangir National Park was established in order to conserve the Asiatic Lion, on 18th September 1965, as a Forest Reserve with an area of about 2,450 hectares. A principal part of the Junagadh District of Gujarat, it is 90 kms from the Keshod Airport in the Kathiawar (Saurashtra) Peninsula. A small town named Sasan with a forest rest house, is the headquarters of the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary. A hilly terrain with a dense network of rivers is the distinct feature of Sasangir National Park. Sasangir was declared partially as a Wildlife Sanctuary and partially a National Park in 1975.

Gir Wildlife Sanctuary is one and the only existing habitat of the Asiatic lion found only in these forests since 1884 whose statistical figures are around 300 presently. The Asiatic lion differs from the African Lion in its size, which is slightly smaller than its African cousin. The national park is made of three adjoining reserves - the Nalsarovar Lake and Sanctuary inhabiting several water-birds; the Little Rann of Kutch, home to the Indian Wild Ass; and the captivating Flamingo Island make the Sasangir National Park an ideal place for wildlife buffs.

The Sasangir National Park boasts of many antique temples like Kankai Mata and Tulsishyam. The best way to explore the national park and enjoy the wildlife viewing in the Sasangir wildlife sanctuary is by jeep safari. The best long jeep drives from Sasan are conducted to Baval Chowk and Kankai, Chodavdi, Tulsishyam and to Kamaleshwar dam.

tourist attraction

flora in sasan gir national park
The Gir is an area with mixed deciduous forests with Teak, Ber, Flame of the forest, Jamun and Babool. A wildlife sanctuary owes a distinct belt of vegetation along the main rivers and streams. The rare tree species like the Jambu, Karanj, Umro, Vad, Kalam, Charal, Sirus and Amli are found here abundantly. These wide and tall, broad leaved and evergreen trees provide a cool shade and moisture to the area.

Wildlife in Sasangir Wildlife Sanctuary
The Sasangir National Park accommodates the wild animals like chinkara, wild boar, striped hyena, jackal, common langur, porcupine, hare, black buck and other animals. There are more than 200 bird species including the peafowl, grey partridge, Bonelli's eagle, crested serpent eagle, jungle bush quail, painted sandgrouse, common green pigeon and several species of doves. The Kamleshwar Dam in Sasangir Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the marsh crocodile commonly seen in the river. There is also the only crocodile-breeding farm in this national park.

getting to Sasan Gir

By Air
Keshod is the nearest airport from Sasangir via Veraval. Daily flights are also available from Mumbai to Keshod.

By Rail
The nearest railhead from Sasangir is Ahmedabad.

By Road
Sasangir is well connected with Ahmedabad via Rajkot, Junagadh and Mendarda. The state transport buses are also easily available from Junagadh and Veraval to Gir between November to June.

ABOUT jay somnath
With unstinted support from faith, mythology and history, the temple town in Gujarat Somnath proudly stands with the towering shikharas of grand old ancient Somnath temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Somnath temple, dedicated to one of the 12 revered Jyothirlingas, directs all the movements in city. It enlivens the life of the locals and visitors.

Somnath, literally means Lord of Moon, derived its name from the temple Somnath temple. This religious destination was earlier known as ‘Prabhas Patan’. This town, unaffected by the modern luxuries and concrete jungles, still holds its historical, mythological and religious appeal to masses of Hindu devotees.

Somnath has got its mention in Puranas and Hindu Epics including Mahabharata. This place is considered as a place where Moon (Soma) worshipping the Lord Shiva and hence Shiva is called as Somnath here. Another Hindu mythological story mentions Somnath as the place where Lord Krishna was shot by an arrow in his foot. It is believed that the Yadavas, the descendents of Lord Krishna, fought among themselves and destroyed the Yadav community.

Placed at the extreme southwest Arabian Coast in Sourashtra, Somnath town encloses a serene beach, few streets and a bus stand. It is believed that Somnath is located at a place where the holy River Saraswathy flows into the Sea.

This sacred temple town vibrant with ‘Shiv Bhajan’ is visited by millions of tourists every year. Several nearby attractions, including Somnath Museum, Somnath Beach, Junagadh gate, Bhakta Teertha, Akhilabai temple and Mai Puri, makes this town as a perfect tourist destination for the pilgrims to India.

history
Maintaining the original site, the present temple is said to have built for the seventh time. The first temple of Somnath is regarded as a structure in Gold, made by Moon God himself. In the 7th century, Somnath Temple was reconstructed by Maitraka kings of Vallabhi inGujarat. The second structure was destroyed by the Arab governor of Sind by the name of Junayad in 725. Again in 815, the third structure was built by Nagabhata II, who was a Pratihara King.

This structure was erected out of red sandstone. In 1024, the temple was raided by Mahmud Ghazni, who took camel-loads of jewels and valuables from here. The Paramara King Bhoj of Malwa and the Solanki King Bhima ofGujarat(Anhilwara) took the initiative to rebuild the temple during 1026-1042. For the fifth time, the wooden structure was replaced with a stone structure by Kumarpal.

Consequently, the temple was destroyed in 1297 by the Sutanat of Delhi and once again in 1394. The last attack was made by the Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb in 1706. The present temple was built in 1995 by Shree Somnath Trust in the company of the Government of India. Today, Somnath Temple is under the maintenance of Shree Somnath Trust.

tourist attraction

Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple
One of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Kamyak forest
In between of Somnath and Verabal is situated the Kamyak forest (of the Mahabharata) or Bhaluka or Bhaluka Tirtha Mandir. By Town bus, auto or tonga, you may view this Krishna Temple. While the Jadu Dynasty was ruined, having been cursed by Kaurav-mother Gandhari and other sages, Krishna visited Pravash Tirtha to attain peace. However, he found his nemesis in Jara the hunter. If one takes a dip in the kund adjoining this temple on Sukla Dwadashi Tithi, surely he will find his place in heaven, as believed by the devotees. Sree Krishna had washed his bleeding foot here in this kund. It is thus known as Padam Kund ( padam means foot). The legendary 3 rivers as referred in Purana has become non existent in Bhaluka; but Pravash Tirtha is coherent with the reference to Purana is still there in its full glory.

The Gitamandir and Laxminarayan Mandir
are located in Dehotsarg campus. The divine message of Bhagwan Shree Krishna in the form of Shrimad Bhagwat Geeta is carved here on eighteen marble pillars. Laxminarayan Mandir houses divine shreevigraha of Bhagwan Laxminarayan.

Shree Parshuram Temple
This is a sacred spot on the holy banks of Triveni where Bhagwan Parshuram conducted his long penance and he was relieved from the curse of Kshatriya killings by Bhagwan Somnath. Divine Leela Parshuram is perpetuated here by a beautiful Parshuram Temple and two ancient kunds.

Treeveni Sangam Snanghat
The holy confluence of the three rivers Hiran, Kapila and Saraswati and their sangam with the ocean is a very sacred moksha tirtha for Hindus. The bathing facilities are being renovated by Shree Somnath Trust with the assistance of the State Government.

Shree Shashibhushan Mahadev And Bhidbhanjan Ganapatiji
The holy temple of Shashibhushan is located at a distance of 4 km from the Somnath-Veraval highway with a beautiful sea-shore. The Jara poacher is said to have taken aim from this spot while shooting an arrow towards Bhagwan Shree Krishna. The ancient Somnath Poojacharya Shri Bhav Brihaspati is said to have built this temple. Bhagwan Shashibhushan with Bhidbhanjan (Saviour form of) Ganesh is worshipped here with traditional spiritual traditions.

Shree Veneshwar Mahadev Temple
The devotional episode of the princess "Veni” is depicted in the novel by Shri K.M.Munshi. The temple was outside of the fort wall of Prabhaspatan at the time of holy war with Gazani.The soldiers of Gazani attempted an abduction of "Veni” who regularly visited the temple to offer her services to Shiva. The traditions maintain that the Shivling was spontaneously divided and the princess buried in it. The Shiv temple here is knows as "Veneshwar” temple after the fond memory of divine episode of Veni.

Timing for Darshan at Somnath Temple:- 6:00am to 9:00pm
Timing for Aarti:- 7:00 am, 12:00 Noon and 7:00pm

getting to somnath

By Air
The nearest airport is Keshod. Located at a distance of about 55 km from Somnath, this domestic airport is well connected to Mumbai. There are flights at regular intervals from Mumbai to Keshod. Mumbai is in turn well connected to all important cities in the country as well as to various other important places in the world. After reaching Keshod airport one can easily avail of any local means of transportation like bus or else hire a car to reach Somnath.

By Rail
Veraval is the nearest rail head which is merely 7 km from Somnath. A special train "Somnath Express" runs from Ahmedabad to Veraval. Ahmedabad is the state capital of Gujarat and is well linked by rail not only to different places in the state of Gujarat but also to many of the prime cities in India. All you have to do is to take a train to Ahmedabad from any part of the country and then catch the corresponding train to Veraval. From Veraval, just get into a bus or else hire a car or auto to reach Somnath.

By Road
A good network of roads connects Somnath to the different important places in the state of Gujarat. The state capital Ahmedabad is 400 km away; Junagadh, Bhavnagar and Porbandar are at a distance of 85, 266 and 122 km respectively but all of them are well linked to Somnath by roads and buses ply on these road routes. In fact Bombay which is 889 km from Somnath is also connected to it by road.

ABOUT saputara
Saputara is a verybeautiful place situated in the Dang district of Gujaratwhich draws a lot of tourists. Saputara at an altitude of about 875 meters is an ideal place to escape from the hustling bustling city life giving peace of mind and calm to the tourist. Saputara with its youthful features and beautiful landscapes in the midst of the green woods offers a refreshing atmosphere to the visiting tourist. Alandwith a long and deep historical past, Saputara is a favorite choice of many Indian travelers. There are various tourist places in India. Travel business in India has been growing day by day. Owing to the variety that the country of India as to offer to the tourists in terms of locations, climate, culture, topography, cuisine, art and architecture, you will have at your proceed a number of tourist places in India deserving a visit or two. This portal not only gives certain information about tourist places in India but also gives in-depth information about Saputara, a tourist place in Gujarat. Saputara is one of the ancient and renowned places in Gujarat, India. Saputara is popular for its splendor.

Every couple wisheshoneymoonto be one of the best phases of their life. Saputara is one of the best tourist places in Gujarat where any couple can plan out their honeymoon in the enchanting atmosphere of Saputara. The honeymoon experience in Saputara for any couple would be the most memorable. Saputara has the best of scenic views, climate, sightseeing, attractions and honeymoon resorts. There are many hotels and restaurants in and around Saputara so that every visitor can obtain cheap and enjoyable accommodation and delicious food as per one's taste. Saputara is a striking place and chief tourist attraction place in Gujarat. Saputara hotels are very famous for their accommodation facilities and hospitality. Hotels in Saputara are easily available. Saputara hotels are reasonably inexpensive as well as hotels at Saputara have very good status. There are various five star & three star hotels at Saputara and many more hotels are still coming up in Saputara. Hotels in Saputara are developed in such a way that all the tourist attraction places, shopping centers and markets are nearby so that the visitors can travel easily. Hotels in Saputara even provide transportation facility. The tours and travel facility is also accessible to roam around the town as well as to reach Saputara from various places around it.

history
This beautiful hill station is perched on a plateau in the Dang forest area of the Sahyadri Range. At an altitude of about 1000 m. it has cool climate, the highest temperature even in the summer do not exceed 28 °C. Saputara though not has much on its history, legends has it that Lord Rama spent 11 years of his exile in these very forests. Saputara means the 'Abode of Serpents' and a snake image on the banks of the river Sarpagana is worshiped by the Adivasis on festivals like Holi. Saputara has been developed as a planned hill resort with all the necessary amenities like hotels, parks, swimming pools, boat club, theaters, ropeways and a museum to ensure an enjoyable holiday in the cool of the hill. Saputara attracts lots and lots of tourist to its scenic lap, owing to its stunning view, lively location and cool climate. Saputara has marvelous waterfalls and the place is ideal for watching sunrise and sunset. In the pleasant monsoon, Saputara offers breathtaking scenes for nature lovers. The Saputara Lake in the backdrop of lusting greenery and charming surroundings is a major attraction here. Boating facilities such as paddle boats or row boats are available on the lake.

tourist attraction

Gira Waterfalls
The Gira waterfalls which comes in full pour in the months of June to November is just 52 km away from Saputara. It is a very pleasant place for picnics and week ends. The tourists never miss this waterfall in Saputara

Saputara Lake
Saputara Lake is the major attraction of tourists in this hill station. There is a Boat Club here from where you can hire sailboats, paddleboats and rowing boats and enjoy boating in the lake. The Sun Rise and Sun Set Points provide landscape and varied views of the sun.

Vansda National Park
Vansda National Park is spread over an area of about 24 sq km and it is the home of tigers, leopards, python, four-horned antelope, pangolin, rusty-spotted cats and giant squirrels. This park which draws a lot of tourist's attention was initially a private forest of the Maharaja of Vansda.

Purna Century
The Purna Sanctuary at a distance of about 60 km north of Dang is situated at Mahal in the Western Ghats of Gujarat. It is a dense damp deciduous forest full of bamboos leading the path.

Forest Nursery
Forest Nursery in Saputara offers many varieties of plants and trees. The nursery is run by the forest department. Many flowered plants can be spotted here; different varieties of Hibiscus flowers attract many visitors. Saplings of fruit trees, flowered plants, creepers and many other trees are showcased here and one can purchase these saplings for a reasonable price.

Lake Garden
Lake Garden is a major entertainment for both the locals and the tourists coming here. This is a very beautiful garden very well maintained enclosing nice plants and rare kinds of trees. The Lake garden looks very fertile, full of lush green trees and plants. Apart from the garden it also accommodates a play area for the children

Rose Garden
This is a beautiful garden which has different species and variety of roses. The different colors of the roses give a spectacular view to the visitors.

Step Garden
One another attractive place in Saputara, step garden has the unique feature of a garden set up in steps. Well laid out steps are adorned with beautiful plants, flower pots and in the midst of nice woods. There is a Forest hut for a comfortable stay to the visitors, placed amidst the garden. The Garden is well maintained and offers variety of flowers and plants.

Nageshwar Mahadev Temple
The Nageshwar Mahadev Temple is known for its holiness and is one of the most religious places in this area. The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Shiva. This temple has hundreds of devotees visiting daily.

Saputara Museum
The Saputara museum is centrally located in the town near the main market. The museum mainly exhibits the various lifestyles and culture of the tribal people of this area namely the Dangis. Museum provides spectacular exhibition of variety of clothes, utensils, traditional artifacts, lifestyles, house objects, musical instruments, ornaments and many such objects which are used by the native tribal Dangis. Apart from this exhibition the museum also conducts a workshop on most of the days which teaches the making of the traditional objects.

saputara excursions

Botanical Garden, Saputara
It islocated about 49 kms. from Saputara. A huge garden spreading over twenty four hectares with 1,400 species of plants from all overIndia. The novice nature lovers can wonder at different varieties of bamboo like the Golden Bamboo, Chinese Bamboo, and Beer Bottle Bamboo etc. and enjoy meandering along the beautiful passages each queued upwith different species of tree.

Gira Falls, Saputara
It is situated about 49 kms. from Saputara. It is located at a fair distance from Saputara on Waghai Road which takes you to an enormous clearing where the vivid Gira falls emerging from the tributary named Kapri can be viewed

Saptashringi Devi Mandir, Saputara
It is situatedabout 68 kms. from Saputara. Saptashringi known as one of the sister of Kali (Hindu Goddess). Sapta stands for seven and shring stands for pinnacle so Saptashringi means the mountain with seven peaks. This temple is visited by the religious followers throughout the year and the rush period is Dashera when a fair is organized where lakhs of devotees visit the mandir during Navarathra.

getting to saputara

By Air
Saputara connectivity is provided by Mumbai and Surat. Mumbai is 248 km from Saputara and Surat is 205 km from Surat. Ideally, passengers can take flights from Surat airport due to its closer distance to Saputara.

By Rail
Nasik railway station is nearest to Saputara only 79 km from the hills of Saputara.

By Road
Saputara is directly connected with major cities and towns of India. Gujarat and Maharashtra State transport buses and private operator buses are available to reach this travel destination. Both luxury and ordinary buses are available, you may also hire a private taxi to reach Saputara. If you want to reach Saputara by your own car, be sure to fill petrol tank at waghai, which is 51 km from Saputara. Another option is to fill petrol tank at a filling station 40 km towards Nasik, as there is no petrol or diesel filling station in Saputara.

ABOUT porbandar
The city where Mahatama Gandhi was born The ancient port of the Saurashtra peninsula, on the Arabian Sea is mentioned in Skanda Puran as Sudamapuri and Ashmavati. It is the city of a mythological story about the great friendship between Lord Krishna and Sudama. Porbadar was the last capital of the Jethwa Rajputs, who ruled this area for about 1200 years – shifting capitals from Ghumli, Ranpur and Chhaya. Present day Porbadar was established as a capital by Rana Sartanji in 1785 AD. Porbandar originally a fortified town, with high rampart walls, bastions and five gates, lost its fortification by the order of Colonel Lally in 1888 AD. Even today, a ritual to circumambulate the fortification is performed by Hindus.

The prosperity of Porbandar was due to maritime trade and it was a thriving port in the Mughal period. It was attacked by the Portuguese in the wake of achieving supremacy over sea trade in 1531 AD. The Walker Treaty of 1807 AD between the ruling clans of Saurashtra and the British put an end to the feuds and it resulted in a favorable environment for the civic development of the Porbandar State.

The most impressive feature of Porbandar is the city planning and the stone buildings with ashlars masonry and rich carving. The facades of the houses on either side of the streets, with series of windows, carved gateways, using eclectic architectural language, invites tourist to experience the streetscape on foot. The series of vistas enriched by a skyline of temples and beautiful public buildings and edifices overlooking the sea on Marine Drive puts Porbandar on the list of coastal heritage towns of Gujarat.

Kirti Mandir is built next to the birthplace of Mahatama Gandhi, who was born here in 1869 AD. Lacs of Indian tourists visit the house of the Mahatama and Kasturba, his wife. Kirti Mandir has a Gandhian library and a prayer hall.

There is no Indian, who has not heard of the legendary friendship of king and devotee – Krishna and Sudama – starting from the ashram of Sandipani Rishi and culminating at the court of Lord Krishna, in the city of gold, Dwarika. The story comes alive with the sight of a beautiful temple in the middle of Porbandar town. In whole of India, this is the only temple dedicated to Sudama. The maze on the platform in the campus is an interesting feature.

Rana Sartanji built Darbargadh, the fortified palace, with a huge carved stone entrance gate flanked by high turrets and massive wooden doors. It is a typical example of such royal enclosures situated within the town of Gujarat. The nearby edifices on the left of the entrance are also good examples of large mansions with courtyards and intricately carved wooden elements.

Rana Sartanji built the three-storeyed summer pavilion, Sartanji Choro in Rajput style as a retreat in the midst of the garden, each side representing a different season. The pillars with images of musicians, profusely carved foliated arches and a single done at the top gives an idea of bygone days, when Rana Sartanji used to compose poems in Braj bhasha, sitting under this pavilion.

Huzoor Palace is located at the end of Marine Drive, in a huge campus. The sprawling palace, built in the European style with sloping roofs is a horizontal structure with several wings and big windows, overlooking the sea. The wings are interspersed with the back and front yards, bringing nature and the building together by gardens and fountains. The semi circular porticos with neo classical pillars, decorated entrance gate and commanding view makes it a must for the visitor. Other such examples of royal and public heritage buildings from the colonial period are public library, old Raj Mahal (now a college), Victoria Jubilee Madresa, Collectorate, Bhavsinhji High School, Natwarsinhji Sports Club.History of Porbandar
Porbandaris one of the smaller districts of Gujarat, and spans over an area of 2,286 sq km. Porbandar has Jamnagarin the north, Junagadh in the east, Rajkot Districtin the west, and the Arabian Seain the south. In the 10th century it was known as 'Pauravelakul' and then 'Sudamapuri'.

Many memon merchants lived here before partition and some still continue living there.The port here was a great atraction for merchants in older days. Porbandar has a climate that is ideal for cultivation for Cotton, groundnut, bajra, gram, wheat, and jowar . the rivers Ozat, Meghal andBhadar further enhanced the cultivation of these major crops over the years.In modern times Cement industry and Soda-ash industry have become two major industries in Porbandar.

The Hindu mythological story about the friendship between Lord Krishna and Sudama is related to this place,which shows how ancient this area had been.It is also known as the birthplace of Gandhiji .

The most impressive feature of Porbandar is the city planning and the stone buildings with ashlar masonry and rich carving. The facades of the houses on either side of the streets, with series of windows, carved gateways are the beauty of the city. It is also known as "White City" because of its white stone construction.

The beautiful historical buildings overlooking the sea on Marine Drive puts Porbandar on the list of coastal heritage towns of Gujarat.

Porbandar was originally a fortified town, with high walls, bastions and five gates, lost its fortification by the order of Colonel Lally in 1888 AD.

During Mughal reign Porbandar served as a thriving port .It was attacked by the Portuguese to achieve supremacy over sea trade in 1531 AD. The Walker Treaty of 1807 AD between the ruling clans of Saurashtra and the British put an end to the feuds and it resulted in a favorable environment for the civic development of the Porbandar State.

tourist attraction

Kirti Mandir
Kirtimandir the birth place of our national father, Mahatma Gandhi. It is mainly center of attraction for the foreign tourist. Imagination and dream of Kirtimandir was incarnated by Shri Nanji Kalidas Mehta and complied with proficiency by Shri Purushottam Mistry. The original birth place of Mahatma Gandhi and close to it the symbol of faith for all the religion i.e. Kirti Mandir make up of marble stones are the great place to visit Porbandar.

Chowpatty
Porbandar’s coastal line is just half a kilometre away from the city. Popularly known as Chowpatty, it is one of the main attractions for the local population as well as tourists, to visit and enjoy the beautiful scenery throughout the year.

Sudama Temple
Do you know whose friendship is being recognized as the best example in the hearts of the Indians? Extremely poor but self-respected Sudama and Krishna’s friendship brings tears of joy, when remembered. It is in memory of this Sudama that a temple has been built in the heart of the city, known as Sudama Mandir.

Bharat Mandir
Pictures, sculptures and symbols belonging to the Indian are culture and religion have been exhibited in the place. It is the mirror of Indian tradition.

Tara Mandal (Planetarium)
All heavenly bodies like stars and planets are shown and explained vigorously and scientifically by the special effect movies on a round screen upside in a Theatre, which seems wonderful.

Other Attection
Temples, Mosques and Cemeteries

Satyanarayan temple, Bhutnath Mahadev temple, Jadeshwar temple, Ramdhun temple and many more temples welcomes to pilgrims in Porbandar.

Seven mosques named Nagina Masjid, Jumma Masjid, Mitthi Masjid, Khari Masjid, Sunni Vora Masjid, Takia Masjid are also famous for the visitors. Roman Catholic Church, C.N.I Protestant Church, are also well known here. Hindu crematorium, Muslim, Parasi cemetery are also here. In olden days Britisher’s graveyard was found here.

getting to porbandar

By Air
Jamnagar, 145 kms away, is the nearest airport.

By Train
Dwarka is a station on the Ahmedabad-Okha broad gauge railway line connected to Jamnagar, Rajkot (217 kms) and Ahmedabad (378 kms).

By Road
There is regular bus service from Jamnagar, Rajkot and other nearby towns connected to Dwarka.

ABOUT kanya kumari
The name of this place has been christened after the virgin goddess – Kanyakumari Amman. Mythological stories depict that Goddess parvati under the disguise of Devi Kanniya did a penance in one of the rocks in this area to reach the hand of Lord Shiva. This place is also a popular pilgrimage. The tourists who visit this southern most tip of India would certainly enjoy the exuberant scenes of the sunsets, the sunrises especially on full moon days. The nature of the sand in the beaches of Kanyakumari is unique as it is multicolore.

Lakhs of tourist, round the year are lured by the serene beauty of this place and the spectacles of sunrise and sunset. Though sunrise can be viewed throughout the year, sunset is visible only from October 15 to March 15 from this southernmost tip. But one can view both sunrise and sunset throughout the year from atop a hill called Murugan Kundram which offers a panoramic view of Kanyakumari. The sunset and moonrise can be seen almost simultaneously on full moon days from the same spot. It is a unique spectacle.

Amidst the sea there are two rocks known as ‘twin rocks’ both contributing to the rich Indian heritage with the monuments of swamy Vivekananda and Saint Thiruvalluvar.

Kanyakumari and its surroundings are believed to be part of the land which was created by Parasurama, incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Folktales and mythological stories speak volumes about Kanyamymar.

tourist attraction

Thiruvalluvar Statue
If you are looking for magnificence along with a monument that reams at you with cultural heritage and history then Thiruvalluvar Statue is definitely one of the best things that you must see in your visit to India. It is a symbol of greatness that stands 133 feet tall (38 feet is the height of the pedestal) Thiruvalluvar Statue weighs just a little bit more than 7000 tons and more than 500 craftsmen or workers have worked in its construction. Thiruvalluvar Statue was designed to be a beacon of art for the whole humanity. Thousands come every month to see this great work of art and culture..

Padmanabhapuram Palace
When you think of palaces then perhaps besides England with its famous palaces, the second place that comes into the mind is definitely India. Padmanabhapuram Palace is one of these many palaces that symbolize the rich and diverse cultural heritage of India that has been around for many centuries. However, what is interesting about this palace is the fact that Padmanabhapuram Palace is made entirely from wood and not any other substance. Kerala Government is responsible for maintaining this magnificent palace and Padmanabhapuram Palace draws hundreds of visitors every day continuously. It is one of the best 10 palaces in the world.

Gandhi Mandapam
Gandhi Mandapam is a special temple that is one of the most important places to visit when you go to Kanyakumari in the southern tip of India. Gandhi Mandapam is built near the famous Anna University. Gandhi Mandapam is one of the greatest monuments that you can look at when you go to India. This temple or monument the Gandhi Mandapam was erected to honor the world famous Indian leader Mahatma Gandhi. It is an important tourist spot that is favored by many people who come to visit India and its monuments that depict its rich cultural heritage.

Vivekananda Rock Memorial
Vivekananda Rock Memorial is one of the most interesting places to see in the southern part of India. It is situated in Kanyakumari and it is a fort and an island. Vivekananda Rock Memorial stands on top of a two rocks that are situated approximately 500 meters off the island. Although the Vivekananda Rock Memorial itself is fairly recent and built around the 1970's, the two rocks themselves have been there since the millennia. It is thought that the great philosopher Swami Vivekananda had meditated on the rock seeking enlightenment. Vivekananda Rock Memorial is open everyday and attracts many visitors constantly.

Wax Museum
Although in general India is all about different kinds of temples and religious monuments, there are some different type of interesting places to go in India that will definitely be of value to you. Wax Museum is definitely one of those places. Wax Museum is situated in Kanyakumari region in the city of Baywatch. The museum houses all the important figures of the Indian History as well as the world history in wax form. The wax figures are realistic and the Wax Museum is reminiscent of its famous counterpart in London. There are also many current international figures like the wax counterpart of Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Thirunandhikarai Cave Temple
Perhaps India is one of the countries in which the most temples in the world exists. Thirunandhikarai Cave Temple is definitely one of the hundreds of temples that are found in the southern most region of India. Thirunandhikarai Cave Temple is a very ancient temple that is a symbolic pillar of Indian religion and culture. There are many sculptures inside the temple which are extinct now. The Thirunandhikarai Cave Temple is one of the founding stones of the Jainism region. Currently the Thirunandhikarai Cave Temple is under the purview and care of Archeological Survey of Indias.

Keeriparai
Keeriparai is one of the most beautiful natural attractions that you can come and see when you visit India. Keeriparai is actually a natural habitat that has been transformed into a natural trek for those international visitors who wish to see the lush jungles of India. Keeriparai has a wide variety of Fauna and Flora that is unparallel by many natural treks and habitats in the world. It is very easy to see big roaring wide elephants in the plains of Keeriparai. In addition, there are many herbal and medicinal plants that can be found there for many purposes.

Thiruparrapu Falls
Thiruparrapu is the beautiful water falls in the southern part of India, that makes up for one of the most beautiful landscapes that you can go and visit. Thiruparrapu Falls is definitely one of these beautiful landscapes that are destined to capture your attention. Thiruparrapu Falls is located in the Tamil Nadu region of India. It is rumored that the Thiruparrapu Falls has recuperative powers to he visitor which goes there. People visiting the falls can dearly enjoy having a good bath under the water stream. They can spend an excellent time in standing underneath the light thudding water stream. Thiruparrapu falls will be a classy place to plan your trip during the vacation times.

Kumari Amman Temple
If you are going to visit India and especially the city of Kanyakumari then one place that you should definitely go and see is Kumari Amman Temple. You can find the many cultural heritages of the Indian people in Kumari Amman Temple. Many India people come to pilgrimage and to bathe in the Kumari Amman Temple. This magnificent temple is situated in the coast overlooking the beach and thousands of Indians comes there creating very big lines. However, unless you are a Hindu you will not be permitted to enter Kumari Amman Temple even for sight seeing.

Kodhayar
Kodhayar is one of the places of interest that is situated on the southern tip of India in the region of Kanyakumari. Kodhayar is a natural habitat in which you can see a variety of fauna and flora. Kodhayar is also called Kodhayar Lower Camp and it is possible to see bison and bears along with different wild animals. Kodhayar is about 60 km long, and it does require a very interesting wild path to get there. However, Kodhayar is definitely a very nice wild park and a habitat that needs to be seen when in India.

Lord Subramanya Temple
Lord Subramanya Temple is one of the most interesting temples to visit when you go to India. It has pillars and towers that give it a magnificent look. Lord Subramanya Temple is one of the many places in India, where you could get a taste of the wonderful things that await fro you there. Lord Subramanya Temple has also attracted thousands of pilgrimage visitors from all over India. Many festivals are hosted at Lord Subramanya Temple and especially during certain religious holidays, it is very hard to get in there. It is very easy to travel to the Temple either by bus or by train.

St. Xavier Church
Although India has been mainly associated with the religion of Hinduism or Buddhism and even Islam; the fact is that India is also one of the pillars of Christianity in the world. Due to the fact that India was a former British Colony, it has many different churches ad temples that are of interest to the Christian Community. St Xavier church is definitely one of them. St Xavier church was built around 1600 AD. St Xavier church (also called Cottar in the Town) was built by St. Francis Xavier and this church still remains a historic site to be seen even after these centuries.

Udayagiri Fort
Udayagiri Fort is in the state of Tamil Nadu in India and thus located in the region of Kanaykumari, which is the southernmost part of India. Udayagiri Fort is a very ancient for that is just simply packed with history. The fort is thought to be made around 1600 when it was built as a defense fort. Udayagiri Fort was also called De Lannoy's Fort due to the Dutch who had occupied the fort in the 18th century. Udayagiri Fort is now a major attraction that has the portion of the fort and it also has a bio diversity park inside for the visitors.

Thiruparrapu Falls
Thiruparrapu is the beautiful water falls in the southern part of India, that makes up for one of the most beautiful landscapes that you can go and visit. Thiruparrapu Falls is definitely one of these beautiful landscapes that are destined to capture your attention. Thiruparrapu Falls is located in the Tamil Nadu region of India. It is rumored that the Thiruparrapu Falls has recuperative powers to he visitor which goes there. People visiting the falls can dearly enjoy having a good bath under the water stream. They can spend an excellent time in standing underneath the light thudding water stream. Thiruparrapu falls will be a classy place to plan your trip during the vacation times.

Thengapattinam Beach
Although it is the smallest of the world's oceans, the Indian Ocean is definitely the most calm and most peaceful oceans that you can swim at. Thus many people and tourists who come to India, definitely go and visit the many beaches that are stationed especially in the southern most part of India. Thengapattinam Beach is definitely one of these beautiful beaches that you can go to with its white sand and calm waters. Thengapattinam Beach is near Nagercoil and besides being a beach it is the perfect picnic spot with its background trees that provide shade and comfort to the visitor.

Olakaruvi Falls
Olakaruvi Falls is definitely a place to go if you are a naturalist or a person looking for a natural attraction. It is one of the many waterfalls that is situated in the southern tip of India. According to the old legends Olakaruvi Falls has the rejuvenating power for the old people. Thus many people come to Olakaruvi Falls to feel rejuvenated. Olakaruvi Falls is about 20 km distance from Nagercoil and it is a very popular tourist attraction. It takes more than an hour's drive plus some walking to get there but due to its popularity many people go there.

Baywatch
If you ever go to India, then besides Bombay, perhaps the most interesting place you need to go is the city of Baywatch situated in the region of Kanyakumari. It has a very famous water amusement park that is especially suitable for families. There are many different types of rides available like the Bumping Car, Crazy Chairs, Giant Wheel, Milky Way, and Multiple Splash. Baywatch Water Amusement park is open every day of the year and it has many different attractions for adults and children including its world famous wax museum that is the counterpart of Wax Museum at London..

Sitharal Jain Monuments
When you visit the southernmost region, Kanyakumari is one of the prominent tourism places which have to be visited. These monuments and temples are the representation of the diversity of the culture and the religions that are founded in India. Sitharal Jain Monuments are one of these culturally rich monuments. Almost every day, you can see people who are traveling to Sitharal Jain Monuments to honor their gods and values. This monument grabs the attention of quite number of visitors with its excellent mesmerizing divine and spiritual values. Plenty number of visitors make their visit to the place and enjoy the beauty of its rich look.

Courtallam Falls
Although it is the smallest of the world's oceans, the Indian Ocean is definitely the most calm and most peaceful oceans that you can swim at. Thus many people and tourists who come to India, definitely go and visit the many beaches that are stationed especially in the southern most part of India. Thengapattinam Beach is definitely one of these beautiful beaches that you can go to with its white sand and calm waters. Thengapattinam Beach is near Nagercoil and besides being a beach it is the perfect picnic spot with its background trees that provide shade and comfort to the visitor.

getting to Kanya kumari

By Air
Nearest Airport is Trivandrum International Airport which is at a distance of 87 km from Kanyakumari.

By Rail
The Kanyakumari Junction is just 1 km away from the central bus stand. The major railway station near Kanyakumari is Trivandrum Central, which is connected to all parts of India by rail.

By Road
Lots of public and private bus services are available from Kanyakumari. Kerala and Tamil Nadu Road Transport Corporation buses connect Kanyakumari with many cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

ABOUT MUKTESHWAR
Mukteshwar is a small town, and one of the most-sought tourist destinations, in the Kuma on hills of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an altitude of 7,500 ft above sea level and is famous for the wonderful 180-degree view of the captivating snow capped mountain ranges that it provides. The second highest mountain-peak of India, Nanda Devi, is also visible from Mukteshwar. The other ranges one can see from Mukteshwar are Neelkantha (Blue-throated Shiva), Trishul (Shiva’s Trident), Nanadaghunti (the Veil of the Goddess), and the Panchuli Group.

Apart from the scenic vistas of mountain ranges it provides, Mukteswar is also famous for its beautiful orchards, dense coniferous forests and old colonial bungalows. One of the most famous attractions of this place is the Shiva Temple, known as ‘Mukteshwar Dham’, after which the entire region was named Mukteshwar. A 350-year-old temple, it is situated at the highest point in Mukteshwar. The temple consists of a beautiful white marble Shiva lingam. Other than this, one can also visit Chauli-ki-Jali, a site marked by mountain-rocks that project out from the hill at a bizarre angle.

Chauli-ki-Jali also provides opportunities for rock climbing and rappelling. It promises to offer astonishing views of many scavenger birds, pouncing down on their praise, as well. According to the local belief, the wishes made here are certainly fulfilled. When in Mukteshwar, you can also visit the sunrise point at PWD guest house and have a mesmerizing experience of dawn. People interested in science and technologies have two more places to visit in Mukteshwar, the Indian Veterinary Research Institute and ‘Renewable Park’, developed by Energy and Research Institute of India.

TOURIST ATTRACTION

Mukteshwar Temple
One of the sacred places to visit in the area is the Mukteshwar temple. Dedicated to lord Shiva, it is a legendary pilgrimage and Mukteshwar has acquired its name from the name of the temple. It is situated at the top of a hill and can be reached by climbing a series of steep stone stairs. For those who are deeply religious, trekking to the temple can be a heavenly experience, in part because of the natural splendor of the place. The temple is adorned with a marble Shivling and idols of some other Hindu deities.

Chauthi Jali
It is a historical place which is also called Chauli Ki Jali by the locals and is situated adjacent to the Mukteshwar temple. Mythology believes that a demon and a goddess had fought a battle in this place and bleak outlines in the place are to be seen which resemble a shield and the trunk of an elephant which are testimonials of the battle. Legend also has it the barren women who came here and touched the lattice around the rock were blessed with a child.

Indian Veterinary Research Institute
A British legacy, Indian Veterinary Institute is one of the leading advanced research facilities engaging in live stock research and is dedicated to the development of the region. It was established at the Imperial Bacteriological Laboratory in 1889 at Pune on the recommendation of the Cattle Plague Commission, and was later relocated to Mukteshwar in 1893. Further, it was developed into the Indian Veterinary research Institute. There is a library and museum as well inside the institute campus.

Mukteshwar Inspection Bungalow
The PWD inspection Bungalow in Mukteshwar is an architectural wonder. It is situated close to the Mukteshwar temple and is a landmark in the town. The bungalow has lush green surroundings and beautiful views which makes it a must-see in the hill station. In fact, it is the perfect place to stay in Mukteshwar if you are halting for a couple of days. Blessed with amazing natural beauty and beautiful architecture, the bungalow has a unique charm.

Fun Activities To Do in Mukteshwar

Trekking
Mukteshwar is famous for trekking trips as it makes for the perfect combination of adventure and fun. Some of the trekking trails are Peora to Mukteswar (8kms), Peora to Almora (16 kms), riverside trek (6 kms) and Binsar to Artola Trek (73 kms). Trekkers can also chart some new trekking paths if they wish to explore the unknown. Don’t forget to put on your trekking shoes and make minimum noise while you trek, so as not to disturb the nature.

Nature Walks
Mukteshwar is the ideal destination for those who want to connect with the nature and absorb its soothing beauty. While it provides for some amazing sightseeing, quite walks in the natural environs have an enticing charm of their own. Nature walks are the best way to rejuvenate your mind and feel afresh. One can go for a long walk in the evening. Early morning nature walks can be the very pleasant to delight in the morning freshness and admire the matchless beauty of the mighty Himalayas.

Rappelling
Rappelling in Mukteshwar can be a fabulous experience. A lot of tourists visit Mukteshwar for the purpose of engaging in rock climbing and rappelling. This can also be coupled with forest picnics or camping to double the fun. Take the necessary equipments along and ensure that you are taking proper protection against danger. Seek the help of professional instructors, if you have not done rappelling before.

Heritage Viewing
The Indian Veterinary Research Institute in Mukteshwar is a legacy of the British reign in India. It is one of the premier institutes in India conducting research on livestock. The tourists can also check out the library and museum inside the institute. There is a PWD inspection bungalow in Mukteshwar which is known for its colonial architecture and is landmark in the hilly town. Visitors can put up in the Bungalow for a day or two for a complete experience.

GETTING TO Mukteshwar

By Air
The nearest airport to Mukteshwar is the Pantnagar Airport, located at a distance of 111 km. Pre-paid taxi services charge around Rs 1700 to drop you till Mukteshwar from the airport. Daily flights connect Pantnagar to Delhi, which is also the nearest international airport from Mukteshwar, connecting it to most of the cities in India as well as abroad.

By Rail
The nearest railway station from Mukteshwar is Kathgodam, which is at a distance of 73 km. Kathgodam is well connected to other major Indian cities of India, by regular trains. After getting down at the station, you can either take a bus or a taxi to reach the scenic hill station of Mukteshwar.

By Road
Mukteshwar is at a distance of 353 km from Delhi, 51 km from Nainital and 42 km from Haldwani. State run bus services connect the other cities of Uttarakhand, such as Kathgodam, with Mukteshwar. Privately-owned luxury buses also run on Delhi-Kathgodam route. Buses can be taken from the Delhi's ISBT Anand Vihar terminal. It takes 8 hrs to reach Kathgodam from Delhi, by road. From Delhi, the route to follow is the one from NH 24 to Rampur and then NH 87 to Ranibagh. From there, take the state highway to Bhowali and then another state highway will take you to Mukteshwar, via Ramgarh.