42 Famous Historical Places In India To Visit In 2024

Historical places in India include Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur, Gwalior, Jodhpur, Delhi, Khajuraho, Alwar, Abhaneri, Bikaner and few more. Read the blog till end to know more about other historical places of India.

India can be listed among one of the most vibrant countries which is rich in heritage. The evidence of its rich heritage, culture and golden past can be seen in the form of various historical spots that are speckled all over.

Not only people within India find it exciting to discover the historical places of the nation but also people from across the globe drop in to admire the historical monuments and stories related to them. The historical masterpieces in India are not clustered rather they are scattered in such a manner that to any nook or corner of the nation you move to, you’ll surely find an interesting historical place with an even more interesting story attached to it.

If you are planning to travel India and get the feel of the history of India then have a look at some of the paces you must visit.

Historical Places one Must Visit in Southern India

If you are planning a tour to Southern India and that too a historical one then probably you have an amazing choice. The southern India is spotted with numerous historical places in cities like Hyderabad, Bijapur, Badami, Hampi, Mysore, Bangalore, etc.

Some of the amazing historical monuments you’ll can visit in southern India include Golconda, Char Minar, Mecca Masjid, Gol Gumbaj, Badami Fort and caves, Pattadakal, Mysore Palace Belur, Halebid, etc. One can also enjoy the amazing architectural beauty of the city of Hampi and refresh the mood the garden city of Bangalore. A historical visit to the south India is an amazing option for a refreshing holiday.

Historical Places to Visit in Eastern India

The culture and history of the eastern India is expressed to the world by the means of forts and monuments. If you are planning a splendid historical holiday in the eastern India then some of the places you must visit are Khuda Baksh Oriental Library, Kesaria Buddhist Stupa, Tomb Of Shamsher Khan, Hien Tsang Memorial Hall, Maner Fort, Agan Kuan, Son Bhadra caves, Padri Ki Haveli, Pathar Ki Masjid, Lomas Rishis Cave, etc.

Having a splendid culture and rich beautiful look, the eastern India is an exciting place to visit. History lovers, it’s going to be a refreshing retreat for you.

Historical Places in Western India

When exploring the western India, you’ll come across a number of cities which are highly rich in historical beauty. Western India not only is found rich in historical beauty but is also rich in natural beauty. One can easily plan a historical tour to western India and explore the monuments and architectures of the past.

Some of the interesting places that one should not miss in one go are Gateway of India, Aurangabad, Modhera Sun Temple, Khajuraho, Ajanta and Ellora. Rajasthan is famous for its forts and havelis-visiting places in Rajasthan will keep you enchanted with its old world charm.

Historical Places of Northern India which are Amazingly Interesting

Northern India is the richest part of the nation when it comes to culture and history. If you are planning to see the various monuments of northern India in one go then please plan a long long trip as Northern India is supposed to extremely rich when it comes to history.

Government has also contributed a lot in terms of finances and man force for perseverance of the historical culture. Some of the must visit historical places of northern India are Taj Mahal, Humayun Tomb, India Gate, Red Fort, Hawa Mahal, Jaisalmer Fort, Jantar Mantar, Jewish Synagogue, Ajmer Sharif, Sheesh Mahal, etc.

List of 42 Famous Historical Places In India To Visit Now

1. Agra

Agra is one of the most famous historical place in India. What makes the city of Agra in Uttar Pradesh famous? Is it the Taj Mahal or the Petha (sweetmeat)?

The argument is an interesting one but whatever might be the reason for its fame, Agra is a perfect choice for a memorable holiday. Agra is definitely an ancient city since its origins can be traced back to the times of the Mahabharata. As far as its name is concerned history puts forward various theories.

To some, it derived its name from the forest named Agrabana while many state that it came to be called Agra under the rule of the Marathas and the Jats. However, the city born under the reign of Sikander Lodi in 1504, Agra rose in prominence only under the rule of the Mughals. A period of cultural development soon followed and Agra witnessed the birth of some of the magnificent buildings and gardens during this time which consisted of the Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Jama Masjid, Ram Bagh to name a few.

Bounded by Mathura on the north, Dhaulpur on the south, Firozabad on the East and Bharatpur on the west, Agra is counted as the third biggest city in the state of Uttar Pradesh.

With the river Yamuna flowing by, Agra is also hailed as a city of festivities. A number of cattle fairs, religious and social fairs and festivals with their customs and colors make it a colorful affair. Some of the worth mentioning one’s are the Janmashtami, Dussehra, Taj Mahotsav, Rambarat, Kailash Fair and the Bateshwar Cattle Fair.

The city can be hailed as a Shopper’s Paradise too. Tourists can check out some of the big places like Sanjay Place and Sadar Bazaar or take back costly souvenirs at cheap price from the markets of Raja Mandi, Kinari Bazaar, Lohamandi and Fuhaara.

With the summer and winter temperatures going extreme, the best time to visit the city are from mid January to April or in the months of September to mid December.

What To See In Agra

Agra, the city with a long history in its background is situated on the banks of the beautiful river Yamuna in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Easy to reach and with plenty of accommodation opportunities readily available, the city of Agra has been an all time favorite of tourists from all over the country and world alike.

It is well known primarily because of the eternal symbol of love, Taj Mahal and a number of historic monuments and beautiful gardens. The Taj Mahal built by Shah Jahan in the loving memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, is the first among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the other two being Fatehpur Sikri and the Agra Fort. This trio makes Agra the pride of any Indian national. The land once ruled by the royal Mughals, Marathas and the Jats was born under the hands of Sultan Sikander Lodi in the year 1504.

Even if ruled by different hands, Agra witnessed a period of glory under the deft hands of the Mughals. The city was gifted some of the prominent capitals like Shahjahanabad and Akbarabad, historical monuments and lovely landscaped gardens during their rule. Fatehpur Sikri, the city made out of stone by Emperor Akbar, came to serve as a military camp.

The other notable places of tourist importance consist of the Jama Masjid, Mehtab Bagh, Ram Bagh, Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb, Chini Ka Rauza, Soami Bagh Samadh, Tomb of Akbar also known as Sikandra and the Tomb of Sheikh Salim Chisti.

2. Jaipur

Jaipur is the first stepping stone to your Rajasthan sojourn. Hailed as the “Pink City”, Jaipur is the capital of the Rajasthan State. Rajasthan has always been associated with royalty and glory. It is not only the desert or the camel or the Palace on Wheels that makes Rajasthan famous, but the fame of Rajasthan is attributed to the innumerable forts and palaces and superb architectural specimens that dot the city. The meandering lanes, the houses of the nobles and the desert breeze, all seem to whisper the legends of gallantry and bravery of the bygone era. Rajasthan is definitely colorful. Whether it is the traditional rajasthani attire or the fairs and festivals or the buildings- Rajasthan often resembles an artist’s canvas.

That Jaipur is nicknamed as the Pink City is quite true to its appearance. The capital city of Rajasthan derives this name from the color of the buildings, painted thus to resemble the red sandstone architecture of the Mughal cities. The color that adorns the buildings now was due to the repainting done in 1876 for the purpose of the visit of Prince of Wales.

Jaipur was founded by the Maharaja of Amber, Sawai Jai Singh II in the year 1727. The town planning of this city is considered to be one of the best by urbanists and has earned the city the name of the first planned city in the pages of history.

The gateway to other cities in Rajasthan like Jaisalmer and Jodhpur, Jaipur is a must visit tourist destination for the domestic and overseas traveler alike.

What To See In Jaipur

Being an important heritage city, Jaipur tops the list on a traveler’s trip to Rajasthan. The charm and glory of the old days is still prevalent in the forts and the meandering streets of Jaipur, the beckoning of which is hard to resist. Founded in 1727 by Sawai Jai Singh II, the Maharaja of Amber, Jaipur has endless attractions waiting for the tourists to explore. Jaipur has its own share of attractions in the form of forts, palaces, temples and gardens. Bearing the mark of royalty, the forts and palaces are the finest specimens of architecture.

Among the fascinating forts, the Amber Fort deserves the first mention. Slightly pastel yellow in color, this fort served as the royal palace of the Kachwaha kinsmen. Next in importance comes the Jaigarh Fort famous for housing the Jaivana Cannon, famous as the largest cannon on wheels in the whole world. The fort also offers a spectacular view of the Aravalli ranges. The third most important fort is the Nahargarh Fort. The scene of the Man Sarobar Lake from this fort is simply awesome.

The palaces of Jaipur take you back to the golden age. The notable names include the City Palace and Jal Mahal. The City Palace however requires a special mention. A magnificent specimen of Mughal architecture, it houses the Chandra Mahal, Diwan-e-Khas, Diwan-e-Aam and Ridhi Sidhi Pol, the notable gateway. The Hawa Mahal built exclusively for the royal ladies was also a part of the City Palace.

Once in Jaipur, do make it a point to visit the temples that are strewn all over the city. Notable temples in Jaipur are the Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Ahshardham Temple, Govind Devji Temple, Moto Doongari, Shivdas Pura Jain Mandir and the ancient Hindu pilgrimage site of Galtaji near Sisodia Rani Garden on the Jaipur Agra highway.

The numerous gardens in Jaipur add the much needed green color to this otherwise desert city. The gardens worth a visit here are the Zoological Garden, Sisodia Rani Palace and Garden, Vidyadhar Garden, Ram Niwas Garden and Central Park.

Without a tour of the Jantar Mantar, your Jaipur trip remains incomplete. This is one of the biggest astronomical observatories among five of them and was build by Maharaja Jai Singh. A trip to the Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing, B.M Birla Auditorium and Convention Centre, Ramgarh and Statue Circle sort of completes your sightseeing tour of Jaipur.

3. Udaipur

Rajasthan is famous for its historical tales and one legend also goes behind the making of Udaipur. Founded by Rana Udai Singh, Udaipur served as the capital of the ancient kingdom of Mewar once ruled by the gallant Ranawats of the Sisodia clan. Initially, Chittor enjoyed the position of Mewar’s Kingdom. The ancient legend states that Rana Udai Singh once met a hermit one of his hunting expeditions in the foothills of the Aravalli Ranges. The Maharana was blessed by the saintly person and was asked by him to establish a kingdom on the very spot and that kingdom will always remain unconquered. On his words, the Maharana built his residence there. Later when Chittor was annexed by Akbar in 1568, Udai Singh shifted his base to the place where his residence stood and gradually laid down the foundation of the grand city of Udaipur.

A festive land, the Mewar Festival and the Shilpgram Crafts Fair are the two added attractions of Udaipur other than innumerable forts, monuments, gardens and temples. Shopping in Udaipur is a must for all as the colorful sarees and dress materials, silver jewellery, wall hangings, handicraft items, turbans make for priceless souvenirs. The best time to visit this city is during the months of September to March.

What To See In Udaipur

The beautiful Lake city of Rajasthan, Udaipur opens up its doors to the tourists from all over the world to some of the exotic palaces, forts, museums and gardens in Rajasthan. A historic place no doubt, this picturesque city at the foot hills of the Aravalli ranges has a lot of tourist attractions to be explored.

Among the colorful and magnificent forts and palaces of Udaipur the first and foremost name that emerges is the City Palace. Strategically located on the eastern banks of the Pichola Lake, City Palace can very well be termed as a complex of palaces which were constructed at various times during the entire 1559 A.D. From the balconies of these royal palaces, one can enjoy spectacular views of the Jag Mandir, Jag Niwas and the sprawling city of Udaipur. The triple arched gateway- known as Tripolia is the entrance to this place. Apart from the palaces like the Sheesh Mahal, Moti Mahal, Dilkhush Mahal and Krishna Vilas, other notable places within the City Place consist of the Peacock Courtyard, Suraj Gokhda, Bhim Vilas and Chini Chitrashala. The Pratap Museum is also housed within the City Palace.

The Jag Niwas or the Lake Palace which is now a luxury hotel and the Sajjangarh Fort are the other prominent palaces and forts.

Udaipur also has its own share of beautifully landscaped gardens. The Nehru Garden, Saheliyon Ki Bari, Dudh Talai and Jag Mandir are some of the well known names. The Jag Mandir situated on the Pichola Lake is famous for its island garden.

The identity of the city, the shimmering lakes however is the prime centre of attraction. While the Pichola Lake remains to be the favorite, the Fateh Sagar Lake located in the north of the Pichola Lake is fast gaining popularity among the masses.

The Museums play a vital role in preserving the priceless relics of the past. Bagore -Ki-Haveli, Ahar Museum and the Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal are the prime draws.

The Ambika Mata Temple and the Neemach Mata Temple are an integral part of the religious life of the Udaipur city. Especially the Ambika Mata Temple is a must visit for it is a supreme example of Indo Aryan architecture.

Other attractions include the Sukhadia Circle, Udaipur Solar Observatory and the Shilpgram Crafts Village. The Shilpgram Crafts Village is held annually. One of the greatest events of the state, this craft fair is an integral part of the cultural heritage of the country.

4. Gwalior

Gwalior, a historic city located in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh is a great historical place to visit in India. The land of great warriors, Gwalior is attributed to a significant place in India’s medieval history and the freedom struggle. A seat of Jain worship, Gwalior is famous for its massive Gwalior Fort and the some of the magnificent palaces that were built during this period. The palaces of the rajas and maharajas are supreme examples of Indian architecture. Home to some of the well known educational institutions, Gwalior is an important centre of learning. Just 122 kilometers south of Agra, Gwalior can also be easily reached from the capital Delhi and Khajuraho.

The Gwalior fort is reputed to be one of the indestructible forts of India. Built by Raja Man Singh Tomar, this fort occupies a central position in Gwalior. The eastern side of the fortress houses is known as the Old Town of Gwalior. Two separate towns, Morar and Lashkar are also a part of this fortress area. While Lashkar is situated on the south, Morar is positioned in the east. A local legend however states that it was the Kachwaha Chief, Suraj Sen who laid the foundations of the original fort of Gwalior. Among the various palaces built during this era, his was the outstanding one followed by some built by the Mughal rulers Jahangir and Shah Jahan. One of the palace houses is the Baradari, which is counted among the most awesome looking palace halls in the world.

With all its glory, Gwalior is a place worthy of a visit. Before it came to be known as Gwalior, the region was hailed by the name of Gopasetra. According to some sources, Gwalior was named after a sage called Gwaliap.

What To See In Gwalior

A historic city never runs out of places to explore and the same goes for Gwalior too. Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh has innumerable sites to visit. There are palaces, forts, ancient temples and museums to explore which not only have interesting legends behind them, but are indispensable part of Indian history.

The first in prominence comes definitely the Gwalior Fort. An identity of the city itself, the fort is reputed as one of the invincible forts of India.

The Man Mandir Palace was built by Raja Man Singh between the periods 1486 and 1517. The former glory does not exist but are still found in some places in the wall tiles and huge music halls.

A symbol of love is the Gujari Mahal built by Raja Man Singh Tomar and dedicated to his beloved Gujar Queen, Mrignayani. Time has left its marks on the exterior but has failed to ruin the interior beauty. The interiors of the Gujari Mahal are now turned into an Archaeological Museum to preserve the priceless antiques.

Another important historical monument worth a visit is the Jai Vilas Palace and Museum. The Jai Vilas Palace is designed in the form of the Palace of Versailles in France. Some 25 rooms have been demarcated to form the Jivaji Rao Scindia Museum. Other places worthy of visit in Gwalior is the Gurudwara Data Bandhi Chhod dedicated to the 6th Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Saheb, Sun Temple, Gopachal Parvat and Sarod Ghar.

5. Jodhpur

Standing on the threshold of the Thar Desert, Jodhpur is counted as the second largest city of Rajasthan. Rightfully called the Gateway to Thar, the city of Jodhpur was founded by the Rao Jodha. He was a Rajput Chief and belonged to the Rathore clan and hailed from the town named Mandore. He led the foundation of the city of Jodhpur in the year 1459. After successful conquests of the near by territories, Rao Jodha gradually built up a separate state as his kingdom. Initially, Mandore, his hometown served as the capital, the role of which was later taken up by Jodhpur. Being situated on the main trading route that led from Delhi to Gujarat, Jodhpur prospered a lot by trading in items like silk, copper, opium, date palms, and coffee.

The desert landscape of Jodhpur forms the perfect natural background to the magnificent forts, palaces, havelis, gardens and temples. As Jaipur is nicknamed as the Pink City, Jodhpur is called Blue City. The name is attributed for the blue colored residential houses primarily meant for the Brahmins located in the surrounding areas of the Mehrangarh Fort. A thick stone wall surrounds the old city of Jaipur. Six massive gates adorn the protective wall and are named Merati Gate, Nagauri Gate, Jalori Gate, Sojati Gate, Chand Pol and Siwanchi Gate.

This colorful city is well known for its fairs and festivals. The Nagaur Fair, Jodhpur International Desert Kite Festival and the Marwar Fair are an integral part of the cultural life of the city and attract thousands of tourists every year. A perfect shopping haven, tourists can spend a great time here picking up colorful bandhni fabrics, antique pieces, jewellery, local handicrafts, lac bangles and leather goods. Some of the well known shopping areas are Sojati Gate, Tripolia Bazaar, Station Road, Clock Tower and Mochi Bazar.

The Sun City enjoys an extreme climate and so the best time to visit this historic city is during the months of October and March. The color, the aroma of the spices, the history and the legends, all weave a web of attraction which traps the heart of every wandering tourist.

What To See In Jodhpur

A land so rich in history and legends can never run out of attractions. The past is very rich in Jodhpur and that is what attracts thousands of tourists to this place all the year round. So whether you are in search of history, or a memorable holiday, it is Jodhpur in the state of Rajasthan which should be your next holiday destination.

Among the forts, the main attraction lies with the Mehrangarh Fort. Known to be one of the largest forts in India, the Mehrangarh Fort houses the Sheesh Mahal, Moti Mahal, Zenana Deodi and the Phool Mahal. The beautiful and massive Umaid Bhawan Palace, The Rai Ka Baag Palace and The Jaswant Thada are the other prime attractions.

The past is preserved in the form of antiques, relics and other priceless artifacts in the various museums of Jodhpur. To catch a glimpse of the royal glitz and glamour, a tour of these museums is a must. There is the Umaid Bhawan Palace Museum which houses the items belonging to the royalty, the Government Museum and the Mehrangarh Fort Museum.

Amidst the desert, the green patch in Jodhpur is attributed to the lovely landscaped gardens. The Nehru Park, Mandore Garden and the Umaid Garden are the notable names. Among these three, the Umaid Garden consists of an aviary and zoo.

Who says that you cannot find water in the desert? The presence of three shimmering lakes in Jodhpur challenges the ancient belief and adds beauty to this desert city. The Balsammand Lake is the most appreciated one for its beauty. The Sardar Samand Lake and the Kaylana Lake follow closely in popularity.

Religion, customs and rituals formed an important part in the life of the common people and the rajas and maharajas of Jodhpur. Hence a number of temples can be located in various parts of the city. Some of the noteworthy names include the Chamundaji Temple, Siddhanth Shiv Temple, Achal Nath Shivalaya, Raj Ranchhodji Temple, Kunj Bihari Temple, Baba Ramdeo Temple, Ganesh Temple, Ghanshyamji Temple and Rameshwar Mahadev Temple.

6. Delhi

Delhi is popular as the capital city of India. It is located in North India. It is one such city where people belonging to different languages, religion, and different cultures. In this city, most of the major events like Independence Day or Republic Day along with popular festivals of every religion are celebrated with great enthusiasm and excitement. It is in this city where you get to see a cosmopolitan India and can enjoy different cuisines and delicacies of India other than typical tempting local fast food collection.

A city which has been the real witness to power and royalty rightfully deserves to be the capital of India. The seat of power for many royal dynasties in India, Delhi is a living example of the past. Coming right out of the pages of history, this place named Delhi is a buzzing metropolis of the present day located in Northern India on the banks of the beautiful river Yamuna. Known to be the second largest metropolitan city in the country, politically Delhi is addressed as a federally administered Union Territory also known as the National Capital Territory of Delhi. The 1991 constitutional amendment act graced Delhi with this special honor according to which Delhi has its own Legislative Assembly. Geographically, Delhi covers a total area of 1, 483 kilometer square and is surrounded by Uttar Pradesh on the south and Haryana on the west. Situated right in the midst of the Gangetic plains, the Delhi ridge and the Yamuna flood plains are worth noticeable topographical features of Delhi.

In ancient times and in the days of rapid urbanization too, Delhi is one of the main hubs of trade and commerce. Old Delhi specially has been successful in keeping that old charm intact. Famous for the numerous historical monuments and archaeological sites, Delhi is a real charmer. Standing tall like the sentinels of the past glory, these historical monuments narrate the real tales of bravery and sacrifice, the power battles that has rocked Delhi for ages. The city has become modern, but Old Delhi still reminds one of the glorious rules of the Mughal Empire. New Delhi came into being as the administrative centre of the colonial rulers and was awarded the title of the capital of India only after she gained independence in the year 1947. Many important offices of the Federal government including the Parliament of India are situated in Delhi.

Delhi is rich in culture and is rightfully called the heart of India. Colorful festivals, mouth smacking biriyanis, kebabs and chaats are the real essence of Delhi. In every nook and corner of this city, glimpses of the past can still be felt. A shopper’s haven, Delhi is the best place to hit the cheapest of bargains whether in garments or accessories.

The only one thing that makes Delhi inhospitable is its semi arid climate with extremes of summer and winter temperatures. But the magic of Delhi is such that even the climate is dreaded and tourists find a way into the heart of the country.

Delhi is known because of its rich cultural background. There are many historical places to visit along with significant monuments and some popular architectural buildings. Places like Jantar Mantar, Akshardham, Jama Masjid, Laxminarayan temple, Red Fort and India Gate are popular ones. You can also enjoy other tourist spots of Delhi city which are worth visiting. Delhi is one commercial hub that offers various tourist spots which are worth visiting. Shopping in Delhi is also popular. Make sure that you visit the shopping complex of Connaught Place which is the most popular mall in the city.

What To See In Delhi

Delhi is history personified and tourists will come across a number of attractions to visit in this capital city. The first among all that claims no introduction is the Red Fort. It can be equated with the identity of the city and is one of the first and foremost important places to visit. Built out of red sandstone, by the Emperor Shah Jahan, this massive structure was finished in the year 1648. Maintenance has kept the place in good shape and there are a numerous other structures of tourist importance within the fort grounds. The component parts are the Diwan-i-Am, Diawan-i-Khas, Hayat Baksh Bagh, Chatta Chowk, the Emperor’s private grounds or the Khas Mahal, Rang Mahal, Mumtaz Mahal, the Swatantra Sangrama Sangrahalaya and the Dawat Khana. There is only one entrance to the Fort complex and that is through the Lahore Gate that is located on the west side. Another added attraction for the tourists is the Light and Sound Show held within the fort grounds.

Next in prominence comes the Qutub Complex and the other associated monuments. Honored as an UNESCO World Heritage site, the Qutub Complex is located in south Delhi at a place named Mehrauli and the monuments within the complex dates back to the Slave dynasty. Apart from the celebrated Qutub Minar built by Qutb-ud-din-Aibak, the other notable monuments are the Ala-i-Minar, Ala-i-Darwaza, Tomb of Imam Zamin, Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the Iron Pillar.

The Humayun’s Tomb follows closely in importance. Situated near the Hazrat Nizamuddin station, the other notable structures along with this consist of the Tomb of Iza Khan shaped in the form of an Octagon, West Gate and the Southern Gate which was the original entrance.

A city well known for its monuments, tourists must also pay a visit to the historic India Gate, Rajghat Memorial of Mahatma Gandhi, Nehru House also known as the Teen Murti Bhavan, the Parliament House and Lodi Estate. The Rajpath that leads to the Rashtrapati Bhavan is also a must see.

Delhi has its own share of museums which are great repositories of the relics of the past. Among the famous museums there is the National Museum, International Doll’s Museum, India Habitat Center, National Railway Museum and Tibet House.

This city of monuments also stands out for the innumerable religious buildings. Worth visiting ones are the Lotus Temple, Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, Jama Masjid, Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Iskcon Temple and Gurudwara Sis Ganj .

The Parks and Gardens in the capital city are welcome treats for the metro dwellers and also keeps the pollution level under check. Beautifying the city and also serving as jogging and picnic spots, the worth visiting parks and gardens are the Nehru Park and the Lodhi Park.

7. Khajuraho

Temples and only temples are the real attractions of Khajuraho. A historian’s delight and a tourist’s treasure trove- that is what Khajuraho can be summarized as. Khajuraho can be termed as a picturesque village with the Vindhyan ranges as the perfect backdrop or a gradually developing town situated in the Bundelkhand region or more precisely, the Chhatarpur district in Madhya Pradesh. With its close proximity to the capital city, Delhi, Khajuraho is convenient to reach and consists of a good number of medieval Hindu and Jain temples that dates back to the 950 to 1050 A.D. Finest specimen of Indian culture and heritage, the rock carvings and the sculptures denote the practices and beliefs of the medieval times. Human as well as animal world are intricately depicted. Society, lifestyle, love and human passion are recurrent themes. Dwelling deep into the theories of Indian aesthetics, the sculptures are timeless assets of Indo Aryan architecture.

As far as history states, the temples of Khajuraho came into prominence during the reign of the Chandela dynasty of Central India. With the glorious rule over during the 13th century, the temples trailed into non existence and were covered under dense over growths of date palm trees. According to the common belief, the place came to be known as Khajuraho from Khajur (Indian meaning of date palm). Initially, the place was familiar to people as Vatsa. Credit goes to the British army engineer named T.S. Burt who excavated these temples in 1838 and gave them back their real glory.

A must visit for all art and history lover’s, Khajuraho is listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The place is best to visit in the months from September to March.

What To See In Khajuraho

The structures prevalent in the temples of Khajuraho, not only depicts human forms, but other institutions of society like marriage, kinship, war and royalty. Human emotions like love and passion are also noticeable. Deities of gods and goddesses and their creations in the animal and human world are interestingly depicted. Genuine and timeless works of art, the temples at Khajuraho are numerous and is divided in groups. The largest and the most beautiful ones are categorized as the Western Group of Temples followed by the Eastern Group of temples and the Southern Group of temples.

Among the Western Group of Temples, the most outstanding one is the Lakhmana Temple. The most notable feature of this temple is the horizontal beam at the entrance which depicts the holy trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. Goddess Lakshmi is also seen gracing the structure with the other three respected Gods of Hinduism. The Devi Jagdamba Temple, Chausat Yogini Temple, Kandariya Mahadeo Temple, Matanageswara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and the Chitragupta Temple built for the Sun God are other notable temples belonging to this group.

The Ghantai Temple, Adinath Temple, Parsvanath Temple, Hanuman Temple, Javari Temple, Vamana Temple and the Brahma Temple fall under the Eastern group of Temples. The granite and sandstone temple dedicated to Lord Brahma is considered one of the oldest temples of Khajuraho.

The Southern Group of Temples makes for the last group among which the Chattarbhuj Temple or the Jatkari Temple dating back to the 1100 A.D is a marvel of architecture and is well known for the 9 feet idol of Vishnu. The Dulhadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and another famous temple belonging to this group is the Beejamandal Temple.

The Light and Sound Show held daily at the site of the Western Group of Temples is another major attraction here.

The Khajuraho Dance Festival is another grand event that brings a good number of tourists to this city in Madhya Pradesh.

8. Alwar

Alwar is a beautiful place in the state of Rajasthan. It is very famous for its beautiful palaces, jungles and heritage hotels that make the place worth visiting. Alwar city is the administrative headquarters of Alwar district. It is located in the state of Rajasthan at about 160 kms from Delhi and 150 kms from Jaipur. Alwar was founded in the 18th century by a Rajput Pratap Singh of Kachwaha lineage. It has a lot of beautiful architecture with Muslim and Rajput influence. It was also called as Ulwar in olden days.

Where is Alwar Located?

Bala fort in Alwar is located on one of the prominent hills in the Aravalli range. This fort belongs to the 10th century and was build of mud by the Mughals and Jats before it was taken over by the Pratap Singh of Alwar. There are pretty Nikumbh Mahal and Salim

In the past, the place Alwar was the capital of the princely state of Alwar wherein it was called ‘Ulwar’ during the British rule in India. In 1770, Pratap Singh, a Rajput of the Kachwaha lineage founded the princely state of Alwar wherein legacy says that his son did the work of aiding the Britishers in opposition to the Marathas.

How to Reach Alwar?

Alwar city is well-connected to various other adjacent cities like New Delhi and Jaipur as frequent flights are easily accessible. Alwar’s railway station is also well managed wherein you can take rail route from cities such as Mumbai, Jaipur, Jodhpur, New Delhi etc. If you wish, you can also take roadways wherein bus services connect the city with places like Bharatpur, Deeg, Jaipur, and Sariska with which you can easily reach the tourist place.

What to See in Alwar?

Bala fort in Alwar is one of the must see tourist places. It is located on one of the prominent hills in the Aravalli range. This fort belongs to the 10th century and was built of mud by the Mughals and Jats before it was taken over by Pratap Singh of Alwar. City palace is another major tourist attraction in Alwar. This city palace was built by Vinay Singh in 1793 and called as Vinay Vilas Mahal after him. The architecture is a beautiful blend of the Mughal and Rajput architecture. The curved roofs and pavilions are simply superb and there is exquisite delicate embroidered work on the windows. The museum spreads over three halls and houses a splendid collection of manuscripts that include copies of Babur Nama and Persian Poet Gulistan.

Just behind the city palace lies an artificial lake Sagar. It belongs to the 18th century and was built by Maharaja Vinay Singh.

After Jaipur and Jodhpur, Alwar is the third most heavily populated city of Rajasthan. The city is situated approximately 160kms to the south of the Indian capital, New Delhi. As the city faces very high temperatures during the summers; it is advised to plan well to make adequate arrangements, so that your trip to the city and journey is comfortable. To make your stay comfortable along with your loved ones, make timely arrangements for lodging and boarding, so that you can get the best possible rooms and good quality hotels to stay.

9. Abhaneri

Abhaneri village located in Rajasthan is a fascinating town which is also known as Tank garden or Chand Baori in the native language. Located on the Jaipur-Agra road, Abhaneri has many beautiful places to explore. Some of the must places to visit and things to do in Abhaneri are

A visit to the beautiful old buildings situated in the olden parts of the city is a must. Tourists can hire a guide and discover the history of the people who lived in those beautiful buildings. Moreover, enthusiasts can also capture the beauty of the striking architecture as they do attract photographers.

The small and rustic village, Abhaneri also contains large number of mud dwellings that attract people from urban areas, who visit the city for sight-seeing. These act as a good model to capture beautiful pictures of village life, wherein children playing in the village and waving at tourists is indeed an adorable view.

A visit to Chand Baori is a popular thing that most of tourists look forward to. It is situated opposite to the Harshat Mata Temple, whose architecture that dates back to the ninth century attracts lots of tourists. The most fascinating part about the step well is that it has around 3500 narrow steps, around 13 story structure and a depth of about 100 feet. Tourists from close by villages and states take a trip for sight-seeing.

Were basically used as cool resort places that were also utilized as pools for the purpose of cleansing, which is a common ritual before visiting a temple. Besides this, the tanks were also used as an arrangement for dry weather as Rajasthan usually has hot and arid atmosphere throughout the year. Food lovers can take delight in various dhabas that are lined up on the highway. Most of the dhabas are situated on the 95 kms stretch that connects Jaipur-Agra road to the city. Shree Dhaba is one of the popular eating points that offer plenty of snacks and good food. There you can see turban clad locals as well as camels which is a fascinating scene to capture in your lenses.

Shopping can also be enjoyed at Abhaneri; however, there are not much good shopping options. To get real good stuff, you can visit Jaipur – the pink city as it offers vast options to the shoppers. You can buy some of the best jewelry where you can get ornaments made up of kundan and minakari, colorful gems and stones, and good cloth material. You can get saris made up of Kota Doria, beautiful potteries, carpets made of wool, artistic shoes, and idols of gods and goddesses. If you happen to visit Abhaneri during the festive period, you can take active part in various fairs and festivals that are held in an enthusiastic manner. For example: In the honor of Harshat Mata, an annual fair is held every year during the months of March-April that lasts for usually three days.

To make your journey to Abhaneri happy and to have a comfortable stay, you can make bookings before actually visiting the place. For this, a good online research can be done to get an idea about the rates and to check the availability of the rooms. Moreover, you can also collect information about various discount packages.

What to See in Abhaneri

Abhaneri is small town located in Rajasthan, India that attracts large number of local visitors as well as tourists from the nearby villages, cities, and states. The village is an attractive location for sight-seeing, wherein ruins of various monuments and temples too act as a nice option for the tourists to explore. Apart from the monuments and ruins, visitors can also do sight-seeing of the reservoirs and various pieces of sculpture. However, good planning is required so that the places of attraction are not missed. For this, a good research is required that can be done by doing internet research or by referring to travel magazines and books on places to see in Rajasthan.

Must Visit Places in Abhaneri

The very first thing that will attract your attention is the beautiful “Baoris”. These step wells give you an insight of the wonderful effort at rainwater harvesting. The beautiful sculptural and architectural brilliance is reflected in the structures and the constructions of the wells. These wells point out to the fact that this place was a great center of arts in the olden days. The chand baori is the most famous baoris of all and impresses you with its ornately carved panels on its sides.

The Harshet Mata temple is one of the must visit places in Abhaneri. This temple is the goddess of mirth and happiness and the temple dates back to the 9th century. The walls of the temple are graced with carved niches and are decorated with the images of deities. The temple is a brilliant example of the early medieval architecture in Rajasthan. The columns and walls of the temple are exquisitely adorned with scenes of dance, love, music, and sports.

What to Buy in Abhaneri?

Abhaneri is a good place for shopping. The markets are lively and you can buy kundan jewelry and minakari jewelry here. There are beautiful gems and semiprecious and precious stones available here. The blue pottery and the kota doria saris are the best buys here. You can even buy some enamelware, brassware, woolen carpets, and embroidered jutis that are a big hit among the tourists. You get very good quality of marble idols of gods and goddesses in Abhaneri and these idols are world famous.

Things to do in Abhaneri

Abhaneri is a wonderful tourist place with plenty of sight-seeing places. Some of the must visit tourist places are as under: At Abhaneri, tourists can do sight-seeing at the famous Chand Baori that is the Step Wells that are also known as Tank Gardens. Originally used as cool resorts due to the hot and arid climate of the region and for the purpose of rainwater harvesting, the wells are also used for the purpose of cleaning as a part of rituals. Located opposite the famous Harshat Mata temple, the huge tank, its fortification, and its ruins that tell stories about the mysterious ancient past of the small village, Abhaneri attracts thousands of visitors. Every year people from nearby areas like Jaipur and Agra, visit the place by means of public transportation such as private buses and enjoy some relaxing moments with their loved ones, wherein the enthusiasts can take beautiful pictures of the place.

The Harshat Mata Temple which is believed to be of the tenth century is another major attraction in Abhaneri that pulls crowds every year. Believed to be built by King Bhoja of the Gurjar Pratihar community, the local Goddess is known to spread joy and cheer to the village. Ruins of the temple attract large number of tourists who visit the place to witness its beautiful architecture which is almost thousand years old. Moreover, every year, a fair is held that lasts for around three days. Number of native devotees and people from nearby villages visit the Harshat temple to take part in the annual fair and to seek blessings of the goddess. In the temple, you can see the idol of Harshat Mata in a happy and jovial mood that provides brightness and happiness to the small village. As the word Abha means brightness in Hindi language, the town was originally named as Abha Nagri which was later rechristened to its current name Abhaneri.

Where to Stay in Abhaneri?

Lots of budget and economy hotels are available in close proximity of Abhaneri. To get the best accommodation facility for a comfortable stay, timely booking is required. Tourists can refer to the travel related websites that give appropriate information about the availability of accommodation along with the rates and discount offers.

10. Bikaner

Bikaner is the blooming desert town in Rajasthan state. This place is dotted with scores of sand dunes and the city stands on the slightly raised ground fortified by a 7 km massive wall. The city boasts of one of the largest camel research and breeding farm in the world. Some very dazzling fairs and festivals here draw many tourists from all over the world.

Bikaner is one of the largest districts of Rajasthan state. Bikaner is a district situated in the northwest of the Rajasthan state. The city of Bikaner is the administrative headquarters of the Bikaner division. It was the capital of the princely state of Bikaner in olden days. The city of Bikaner was founded by Rao Bika in 1486. The Bikaner city is also referred as green city. The Ganga canal was completed in 1928 and the Indira Gandhi canal was completed in 1987. These supply water to agriculture and crops like mustard, cotton and wheat are grown. Other industries in Bikaner include the Bikaner wool, mining of gypsum, bentonite and plaster of paris.

The Karni mata fair and Kapil muni fair are very famous. The state government organizes a camel festival and camel races along with many other cultural events. Fire dances are performed by the sidh people. All this is organized in the month of January.

Bikaner is famous for its handicrafts and leather articles, Bikaneri wool, palaces and has Asia’s biggest camel farm. About the notable places to visit are Bikaner fort, Bikaner palace and Bikaner rat temple.

Climate: As the city is situated in the Thar desert area, it experiences extreme temperature and little rainfall. During the summer the temperature reaches to about 50 degrees Celsius and in winters, it comes to freezing point. The city experiences extreme temperature changes. The area receives an annual rainfall of 260 to 440 millimeters.

Transportation: The main modes of transport within the city are buses and auto rickshaws. Rail route forms the main medium of transport from Bikaner to other major Indian cities. Some of the cities having direct rail route to Bikaner include Thiruvanandpuram, Jalandhar, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi, Jammu, Kolkata, Chandigarh, Surat, Ahmedabad, Agra, Jaipur, Baroda, Jalandhar, and Kanpur. If you are coming from cities like Indore, Bhopal, Jabalpur, Gwalior, Ranchi, Chennai, Puri, and Gorakhpur, you may not get a direct train route to Bikaner. Through the roadways it has direct linkage to cities like Haridwar, Ahmedabad, Bhatinda, Ludhiana, Jaipur, Agra, Delhi, Ambala, Jodhpur, Indore, etc. An airport is under construction at NAL, which is situated about 14 kilometers from Bikaner. It is expected that the service starts its flight to Delhi and Jaipur from January 2012.

Some of the things for which Bikaner is famous for include the Bikaner bhujia that you can get in any part of the country. Many brands sell it in packaged form. It has a camel research farm (NRCC) which is very famous. Bikaner is also famous for PATA culture (in this culture a square shaped wooden table is placed at the street and local people sit there at their leisure time), wool production, etc. The famous Bikaneri Bhujia, which is a spicy snack, is made from moong or moth daal and edible oil. Bikaner also has some good handicrafts. Leather articles of the place are also famous and the camel farm organized here forms the Asia’s largest.

Bikaner is a very famous city in Rajasthan today and has a rich cultural history.

What To See In Bikaner

Bikaner is well known for its intricately carved Jharokas or windows. These windows are jails or screens carved on sandstone. They are found on the the windows of the Junagarh fort, temples and havelis. These jails were used for ventilation and for women to watch the world outside while remaining hidden behing it. The nearby village of Dulmera supplied the red sandstone used for the jharokas.

Bikaner is also famous as a center of Utsa Art and is produced by Utsa masters. This utsa art was very prominent during the 16th to 20th century. It consists of the techniques for painting on paper and other objects using translucent and other opaque water colors. The secondary technique is embossing and unembossing.

Other places around Bikaner worth visiting are:

• You can see the Lalgarh palace 3 situated km from the city
• Camel research farm managed by the state government and situated 8 km
• Devi kund (8 km)
• Gajner wild life sanctuary (32 kms)
• Shiv Bari Temple near the camel research farm which is fortified by a very high wall
• Deshnok Temple (30 km)

Food: Bikaner is very famous for its Bikaneri Bhujia, Alu bhujia and its sweets. These are made from moth dal, spices and oil. They have a lip smacking variety of food and it is a prime feature of the culture of Bikaner. Roti and kheechadi comprises of the main meal and you can have butter milk and lots of butter along with it. The deserts of Bikaner like rabid are very appreciated.

Shopping in Bikaner: The best time to shop in Bikaner is during the camel festival. Apart from this the famous spots foe shopping are Kota Gate and the Junagarh Fort area. The most famous shopping items in Bikaner are the camel leather products like the camel leather shoes, camel leather chairs, camel leather belts, camel fur rugs, leather bags, wallets, etc. the most beautiful item you get there are the miniature paintings on camel hides.

Bikaner is famous for arranging uncut stones, especially diamonds into gold as decoration for swords, sweet boxes, etc. You can buy Rangi dupatta, kundan work, carpets, cotton fabrics with sanganeri prints and Nokha Quilts which are unique to Bikaner.

11. Bundi

If you are impressed by forts, palaces, havelis and beautiful temples, then Bundi is the place for you. Bundi is a town place in Rajasthan state that is situated in the state of Rajasthan. It is the district headquarters of the Bundi district. This town of Bundi is unexplored and is full of rich historical wealth. It is surrounded by the beautiful Aravalli hills on three sides and is circumscribed by a massive wall with four gateways. The palaces and forts of Bundi have a royal tale to tell. Hada Chauhans ruled it and the place is said to derive its name from the king called as Bunda Meena.

Fairs and festivals of Bundi reflect the vigor and lifestyle of the people. Tejaji fair is dedicated to the folk deity, while Keshav Rai Patan fair starts on Kartik poornima. The cultural programmes are worth watching.

Bundi is renowned for its famous Baoris or the step wells. Some of the notable ones are the Nagar Sagar Kund, Raniji ki Baori and Nawal sagar. A beautiful temple of Lord Varuna is half submerged in the waters of the lake.

You can shop for mementoes for your loved ones from the bazaars in Bundi. The most preferred buys are the Kota Saris, colorful odhnis or shawls, stone studded statues, wooden toys and lac ornaments.

What To See In Bundi

Taragarh Fort was built in 1345 is a great ramble if you have leisure time. The view of the Bundi town and the surrounding county side are magical. There are huge reservoirs carved out of rocks inside the fort. Bhim Burj is the largest battlefield and there is a famous cannon mounted there.

Sukh Niwas Palaces are worth visiting. It evokes memories of Rudyard Kipling who stayed there and found inspiration for his famous work Kim.

Sar Bagh has 66 royal cenotaphs and step wells that provided water during summer. Chitra mahal has beautiful wall paintings of the famous Bundi School while the Zanana mahal and Badal mahal are also worth watching.

Pool sagar is an excellent and well-planned structure and has beautiful decoration of Rajput edifice. Taragrah has the same beauty and has a medieval atmosphere.

Rattan daulat is a very interesting structure forming a stable for nine horses and hatai pol. Naval sagar is a square artificial lake visible from the fort. It is broken up by islets and a temple of Lord Varuna stands half submerged in the lake.

Shopping in Bundi

The shops in Bundi are not very big but are very striking, as they have retained their medieval look. Bundi is very famous for its cotton carpets and miniature paintings. You can buy beautiful Kota saris, colorful shawls, wooden toys and stone statues in the market.

12. Pilani

Once a small village, Pilani is now a very famous place for being the hometown of the foremost business and industrial family of the Birlas. The town of pilani is in the Jhunjhunu district in the state of Rajasthan

The town of Pilani is also famous for its Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS). The engineering college is very reputed and other places of interest are BITS museum, shiv Ganga temple, Saraswati temple and the Pachwati.

The celebrated king Raja Chand founded the village of Pilani. There are some temple ruins in Pilani, which date back to the 10th century. There is a massive tank called the Chand Baori, which is just opposite to the temple. Walls from all sides with bastions for defense surround this tank.

It comes under the Shekawati region of Rajasthan. This region is very famous for its forts, frescoes and temples. It is necessary visit destination on any Rajasthan tour and you will have to tour it to experience the grandeur. The area boasts of the largest and most beautiful frescos in the world. They have mythological and historical themes, life stories of Lord Rama and Lord Krishna. “The open galleries of Rajasthan” are a visitor’s delight and you can enjoy these on your trip to Pilani.

Abhneri is situated near to Pilani and is now in ruins. It tours are very important as this place has a lot of historic importance and it is well known for its post Gupta or early medieval monuments. The place is worth a visit and has a discrete reminiscence about itself. The Harshat Mata temple is very old and dates back to the 10th century. The Archeological department of the government of India protects it.

Hotels in Pilani

Pilani is reputed for its educational institutes and centers. It is the house of the best and finest technical schools like BITS and CEERI in the country. It is visited by a lot of people from India and abroad and is now emerging as one of the major tourist destinations in Rajasthan.

Pilani has a lot of historic importance as well. These are some very famous temple ruins here, which belong to the 10th century. The Chand Baori is another stepwell, which is very big and is surrounded by walls from all sides. There are some temples like Shiva Ganga temple, Saraswati temple and the Pachwati, which attract tourists because of their beautiful structures. The BITS museum is also a must visit place and there are many places like Abhneri, which can be seen during this trip.

Since Pilani has many educational institutes and is famous for its historic monuments, people from all over the world visit it. It has developed as a very popular tourist destination and you can very easily find good accommodation here. There are five star hotels, 4 and 3 star hotels that provide you with good accommodation facilities and facilitate your stay. You can stay in budget hotels that offer you good value for money and are very pocket friendly. You can find amazing offers and deals for all classes of hotels and resorts here and it lives up its legacy of being one of the best places for hospitality in Rajasthan.

How to Reach Pilani

Pilani is the hometown of the famous Birlas and is situated in Jhunjhunu district in Rajasthan. It comes in the Shekawati region, which is very famous for its forts, temples and frescoes. The frescos in this region are world famous as they are the largest concentration and are very beautiful ones in the world. The temples like, shiv Ganga temple, Saraswati temple and the Pachwati are worth a visit. There is a very old temple in Pilani, which dates back to the 10th century, and there is a huge step well, Chand Baori near it. Tourists flock to Pilani as it is a very famous educational hub and has a lot of tourist attractions.

You can reach Pilani by rail or roadways as it does not have a airport of its own.

By Air: There is no airport in Pilani, but you can come to Delhi or Jaipur and take a bus to Pilani.

By Rail: The nearest railway station to Pilani is Chiwara on the western railway and Loharu on northern railway. You can take a train from Delhi or Sarai to Loharu. Loharu is just 25 kms away from Pilani and you can take a bus or jeep from there.

By Road: There is a regular bus service between Delhi, Jaipur and Pilani. It is well connected by inter state bus terminals. You can take a direct bus to Chiwara from Delhi airport and reach Pilani. You can also take a direct bus from Delhi and Jaipur to Pilani.

What to See in Pilani

Pilani is a very famous place in Rajasthan. It is an educational hub and has a lot of historical places. It houses famous institutes and technical schools like BITS and CEERI. It has places of historic importance like the BITS museum, shiv Ganga temple, Saraswati temple and the Pachwati. You can visit the Shekhawati region and take delight in the forts, temples and Frescoes of various Hindu Deities.

You can explore Abhaneri, very ancient village in Rajasthan, which attracts tourists from all over the globe. Abhaneri is a beautiful village situated about 95 kms from Jaipur in the state of Rajasthan. It lies on the Jaipur Agra road and is a place worth visiting as it is one of the most celebrated ancient village in the entire state of Rajasthan. This place is popular for its post Gupta and the ancient monuments. Abhaneri has contributed a large number of ancient sculptures to various museums all across the globe.

Abhaneri is very famous for its ancient step wells also called as ‘Baoris’. The Massive Chand Baori and the temples of Shiv Ganga, Saraswati and Pachwati are very famous and worth seeing. The tour of Abhaneri which is in ruins is discreet and reminiscence. This place is well known for the post Gupta or early medieval monuments. This place has contributed to a lot of sculptures to various museums all over the world.

The Harsha Mata temple was built in the 10th century and is under guard by the Archeological department of the government of India survey.

13. Pali

Located in central Rajasthan, Pali is a well-known tourist destination. It got its name from the Paliwal Brahmins that inhibited it. This place has witnessed many battles. It has played an important role during the time of freedom struggle towards the British. It has a lot of historic importance and it is a place with many temples and other places of worship. The three temples namely, the Hatundi Rata Mahabir temple, Rankapur temple and the Surya Narayana temple are the famous pilgrim centers of Pali.

The temples are an architectural delight as they have a unique style. The ceilings of the temple are carved with fine lace like foliate scrollwork and beautiful geometric patterns. The domes have concentric bands and the brackets connect the base of the dome.

The 15th century Adishwar temple or the Chaumaukha temple is a very fine structure. It is in the form of a Nalinigulm vimana or a heavenly aircraft, the shah had seen in his dream. It took sixty-five years to complete it and it is the largest Jain temple. It is very complex Jain temple and boasts of being one of the five most important holy shrines of Jains in India. The town of Pali is a district headquarters of the Pali district in Rajasthan state. It is situated on the banks of the river Bandi and is 72 kms from Jodhpur. Pali was a part of the Pratihara dynasty kingdom in marwar.

Pali is also known as the industrial city as it has textile industries. The cotton and synthetic clothes manufactured here are exported. There are leather based industries, agriculture instruments, chemical industries and mineral based industries.

What To See In Pali

Bangur museum is situated near the Pali bus stand and has many old historical things. It has artifacts like epigraphs, miniature paintings, stone tools, old dresses, coins, arms and other interesting items on display.

Sojat fort of the 14th century is worth looking at and it has a mosque as well as temple ruins.

Lakhotia garden is a beautiful spot and it is surrounded by a pond. There is a beautiful shiv mandir at the center of the pond.

Somnath mandir is situated in the heart of the Pali city. The king of Gujarat Kumarpal Solanki constructed it in 1209.

The nimbo Ka Nath is another interesting place to visit. It is believed that, Pandavas stayed here during their exile period.

Hatundi Rata Mahabir Swami Temple is another popular place in Pali. There is a most magnificent temple of Saint Mahavira in Rajasthan, which has exquisite pink and white color. It is built in the shape of the pyramids of Egypt and this multicolored marvel is an unusual sight for travelers. There is an imposing statue of Lord Mahavira housed inside the inner sanctum.

There are numerous step wells in Pali, which are called as Barois. Each of the step wells has a unique design and is an architectural excellence that symbolizes the refined taste of people of that period.

Surya Narayana temple is a beautiful place and you should visit it to marvel at it. The temple was build in the 15th century and has towers over the altar. It follows a circular plan and has numerous projections. The base has small protruding niches and the adjacent sanctum is laid out on an octagonal plan with six protruding porches. The idol of the Sun God is a wonder in itself. The temple is embellished with friezes of lord Surya in his chariot drawn by seven horses.

Other places of importance are the naulakha Jain temple, Radha Krishna Astrological house, Bajrang baug.

14. Nagaur

Nagaur is a historical town that houses palaces, shrines and a fort. It is one of the hot tourist destinations in Rajasthan. It is famous for its colorful lifestyle and one of the biggest cattle fairs in the state. It attracts many tourists who want to enjoy a different Rajasthan.

Nagaur city is the administrative headquarters of the Nagaur district in the state of Rajasthan. Nagaur lies in between Jodhpur and Bikaner. It was founded by the Naga Kshatriyas in the 4th century and is known as the village Khatwan and Ahichhatrapur. Nagaur is also mentioned in Mahabharata and Nagaur fort is a place of historic importance.

Tarkeen Dargah is a famous Muslim shrine. It is dedicated to Hamiduddin Nagauri who was a disciple of the Khwaja of Ajmer. The Muslims and the Sufis consider this shrine as a very holy place.

Glass Jain temple is exquisitely carved out of glass and Jains consider this a very sacred place.

Nagaur is famous for its cattle fair and is the second largest in India. Thousands of animals are gathered at the fair and traders all over come to buy and sell cows, bullocks and camels. There are various cultural activities taking place during that time. Camel races, cock fights and dances provide entertainment to the visitors and the local people. The joyous atmosphere in Nagaur is worth experiencing.

What To See In Nagaur

Nagaur is a beautiful place in the state of Rajasthan. It is one of the most popular tourist locations as it has palaces, havelis, temples, mosques and a fort. It is also famous for the cattle fair held, as it is the biggest in the state.

Achitragarh Fort was built during the fourth century and as three gates, Sir Pol, Beech ka pol and Kacheri pol. There are various palaces built during various periods by the rulers and they are worth seeing. The prominent among them are Hadi rani mahal, Deepak mahal, Bhakt Singh palace, Amar Singh mahal, Akbari mahal. There are two temples the Krishna mandir and the Ganesh mandir along with the Shah Jahani mosque within the fort complex.

Tarkeen Dargah is hugely revered and occupies the place just after the Dargah of Ajmer-e-sharief. It is dedicated to the Khwaja Hamiduddin Nagauri.

The Jain temples in glass are grand structures that command an unfading respect in the hearts of the jains. The paintings are beautiful and showcase the motifs related to the life of Lord Mahavira and Parsvnath.

Saiji ka temple is another sacred tourist place in Nagaur.there is a Samadhi of an estimated saint and stands for the liberation of the soul with simplicity and the truthfulness. This Samadhi is also a symbol of communal harmony.

You can witness a big cattle fair in Nagaur if you happen to visit it during the month of February. This fair is one of the major tourist attractions of the place. The fair has cockfights, puppet shows, camel races, dances and other activities.

15. Kumbhalgarh

Set amidst an array of about thirteen mountain peaks of the Aravalli range in mewar is a impregnable medieval castle. Yes, this is the castle of Kumbhalgarh! Is gives you a glimpse of the past glory of its kings and princess. A two and a half drive from Udaipur, Kumbhalgarh is a place to visit.

Kumbhalgarh fort is a very famous mewar fortress in the Rajsamand district of Rajasthan state. Kumbhalgarh fort has a wall of that extends 36 kms in length around the perimeter of the fort. This wall is the second longest wall after the Great Wall of China. The frontal walls have a thickness of 15 feet and Kumbhalgarh has seven fortified gateways.

Kumbhalgarh is a birthplace of Maharana Pratap who was a great king and warrior of Rajasthan. The fort is now open to the general public and used as a public museum. It is spectacularly lit for some time each evening and this is a remarkable sight.

Badal mahal soars high in the sky. You can gaze at the serpentine lines of the fort walls and other distant landscaped from here.

Kumbhalgarh has a very famous sanctuary, which is famous for chowsinghas, nilgai, sloth bears, wild boar, sambar, leopards and jackals. Kumbhalgarh wildlife sanctuary protects the rare species of animals like the wolf. It is situated in the lush green region of Udaipur.

What To See In Kumbhalgarh

Kumbhalgarh has a beautiful fort, which has a unique structure. It is located at an altitude of 1100m from sea level. The massive perimeter wall of the fort is very ling and is the second largest in the world after the great wall of china. This wall is 36 kms across the Aravalli Mountains and has frontal thickness of 15 feet. This fort is surrounded by 13 mountain peaks and guarded by seven massive gates and seven ramparts. It is further strengthened by rounded bastions and immense watch towers. The beautiful winding road leads through deep ravines and thick forest to the Arait pol. There are Hulla pol, Hanuman pol, Ram pol, Bhairava pol, Paghra pol and the top-khana pol.

There is a beautiful Badal mahal palace, which encloses beautiful rooms. These rooms have pleasant color schemes of green, white and Turquoise, which provides a contrast to the otherwise raw, earthy and grim fort.

Haldighati is a very famous battle of the 1576 that was fought between Rana Pratap and the massive forces of the Mughal emperor Akbar. There is a beautiful chhatri or canopy of white marble dedicated to Rana Pratap.

Kumbhalgarh wildlife Sanctuary is worth visiting. You can travel here on horse back and can see the rare wolf. It is a perfect place for you if you are a wildlife lover. This sanctuary is a home to many endangered species of wildlife like sloth bear, Hyena, wolf, leopards, jackal, jungle cats, Nilgai, sambhar, chinkara and many other animals. The bird population includes flamingoes, Sarus cranes, painted storks, spoonbills, cormorants, purple heron and rosy pelican to name a few.

The celebrations of the Gher Ghoomer festival before the Chamunda Devi are very famous. These celebrations are taking place since the last six centuries and retain the old charm. There is a lot of dancing and singing and colored water is splashed along with the mesmeric beating of drums.

16. Kota

Kota in Rajasthan is very famous for its palatial palaces, forts and monuments. It is synonymous for Kota Doria saris and the Kota school of miniature paintings.

Kota formerly known as Kotah is a city in Rajasthan state. It is situated on the banks of the Chambal River and is a trade center of the surrounding area. The historical temples and palaces are getting surrounded by the modern developments of factories and other industries. Chambal river valley project is an irrigation and power project that has come up here.

The city was founded in the 12th century A.D and became the capital of the princely state of Bundi. It became a separate state in the 17th century. Kota is very famous for its distinctive style of paintings and the vibrant education center which prepares the students for the countries elite engineering and medical colleges. The Crosthwaite Institute in Kota is as old as the palaces of Maharao.

The prominent tourist attractions in Kota are the historical places and the museum. It has an excellent collection of Rajput miniature paintings, frescoes, exquisite sculptures and armory. There is a beautiful Jag Mandir located in the middle of an artificial lake, Kishor Sagar Lake. It is built in red sandstone and is an excellent structure that dates back to the 14th century. Besides boating in this lake, you can visit the Kesar Bagh, which is very famous for its cenotaphs. You should visit Devata Shirdharji as it has splendid frescoes and lovely paintings on the walls of the beautifully designed rooms.

What To See In Kota

Kota is a very famous historical city in Rajasthan. The city of Kota is very famous for its architectural splendor all over the world. There are some very magnificent Palaces, temples and museums here, which are worth visiting.

The Rao Madho Singh museum is definitely worth visiting as it is one of the best museums in the state. This was a palace which was named after the son of the former ruler and who was the first ruler of the princely state of Kota.

Govt. museum houses various archeological finds in the vicinity of Kota. It has sculptures from the temples of Baroli and belongs to the 9th century.

City palace and Kota fort make a huge complex overlooking the Chambal River. The Chambal gardens are a spot very popular with the tourists.

Jagmandir temple is situated at the center of the artificial lake Kishor Sagar which dates back to 1346 A.D.

Haveli of Deaji has many frescoes and paintings worth looking at. There are other tourist places like Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary, Baroli, Nahargarh Fort, Bundi< Nawal sager, Jahalwar, to name a few.

Shopping in Kota

Kota is a very small place and shopping in Kota is a very pleasant experience. It has rich tradition of art and craft pieces.

Kota Doria saris are a must buy here as you can get a lot of variety, colors and very good quality at very reasonable rates. These cotton and silk saris are hand woven and the weave is very fine and the method very primitive.

Exquisite potteries and stone crafts are also some of the very famous things of this place. The very beautiful artifacts and utilities made of stone serve as excellent gift items.

Another very popular handicraft from Kota are the beautiful miniature paintings. You should definitely visit the government emporia and other renowned outlets for a variety of local handicrafts and knickknacks.

17. Kishangarh

Kishangarh is a city in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan state. Kishangarh was founded by the prince of Jodhpur Kisan Singh in 1609. It is the birth place of the unique Kishangarh style of painting. This is known for the beautiful depiction of a courtesan who was a poet known as Bani Thani. The paintings are very attractive and painted on the background of pristine environment and lusting green landscapes.

The Kishangarh fort and the Phool Mahal also called as the palace of flowers are the major attraction. You can feast your eyes on the stunning vistas create by the vast lake near the majestic Kishangarh fort. You can spot some very rare birds here if you are lucky enough. Some very old and beautiful paintings are well preserved here. The typical characteristics of the paintings are the portraits of women with sharp profiles, long necks, slanted eyes, curly hair and aquiline nose.

A huge wall surrounds Kishangarh fort and there is a big moat around it. There are a number of monuments and palaces in the fort, which makes it a great place to explore.

Recently Kishangarh is known as the marble city of India. It is the only place in the world which has a temple of the nine planets or the Navgrah temple.

You can get good Rajasthani food and good accommodation facilities here. This is the place to visit if you want to experience the real Rajasthan.

How To Reach Kishangarh

Kishangarh is a small sleepy town in Rajasthan. This place is just 27 kms away from Ajmer. This city is famous for marbles and for miniature paintings. There are a number of forts, palaces and large lakes that make the city very beautiful and attract many tourists. The place is easily accessible to the tourists as it is well connected to other places with good transportation facilities.

By Air : The nearest airport is the Jodhpur airport which is situated about 145 kms away from Kishangarh.

By Rail : The nearest railway station to Kishangarh is Ajmer which is just 27 kms.

By Road : Kishangarh is connected to all other major cities of Rajasthan by a good network of roads. It is on the national Highway no 8 and has good road network.

What To See In Kishangarh

Kishangarh fort build in 1653 by Maharaja Roop Singh is a major attraction. The fort is surrounded by huge walls and has many palaces and museums. There is a canal that surrounds the Kishangarh fort and it was build by Kishan Singh. It is believed that this fort was built by Maharaja Roop Singh on the spot where he saw a sheep defending her lambs from a pack of wolves. The fort is situated near a magnificent lake and it was a prominent center of the Kishangarh School of miniature paintings. The famous and unique Bani Thani style of painting originated here. The Maharaja Sawant Singhji and his lover Bani Thani modeled as Lord Krishna and Radha for the paintings. The interiors of the fort are beautiful and there are some wonderful frescoes.

There is a beautiful pond called as a Gong Talab and there are many beautiful spots around it. There are some temples and the best of all is the one of the nine planets, the Navgrah temple. This is the only temple of the nine planets in the entire world.

Phool Mahal or the Palace of flowers is located in the vicinity of Kishangarh fort. It was built in 1870 by Maharaja Prithvi Singh as his monsoon palace. The beautiful Phool Mahal is now a heritage hotel.

Shopping in Kishangarh

You can buy miniature paintings from Kishangarh. Gold jeweler, silver jewelry. Bandhani saris, embroidered jutis and ittar a local perfume are available in the vibrant markets of Kishangarh and Ajmer. You can buy the famous miniature paintings popularly known as the Bani Thani paintings.

18. Nagpur

Nagpur is one of the very important cities of central India and is known as the ‘Orange city’. It is the third largest city of Maharashtra after Mumbai and Pune. Moreover, it has distinction of being the second capital of the Mahrashatra state. For the entire Vidharab region, Nagpur is the center for political and commercial issue. Nagpur city is the headquarters of Nagpur district and for the Nagpur division too. Population of Nagpur city is around 2,420,000, which makes it a 14th largest urban conglomeration in India and 143 in the world. The History of city states that Gonds established this beautiful and charming city, but later it was consolidated under the Martha Empire.

Well, Nagpur is situated in the eastern part of Maharashtra. This city is located on the Deccan plateau of the Indian Peninsula. The climate of this city is tropical wet and dry. In the season of monsoon, it receives an annual rainfall of 1,205 mm. The main language spoken in Nagpur is Marathi and Hindi. Nagpur city has a number of natural as well as man made lakes like Futual Lake, Gorewada Lake, Telangkhedi Lake, Sonegan Lake, Ambazari Lake, and Gandhisagar Lake. Almost 90% of the city population is engaged in non-agricultural activities.

In central India, Nagpur is an important educational center. This city has both the types of schools such as Municipal schools run by NMC and Public schools run by Private bodies. Students come here from all over the country; Nagpur University is the main university that offers plethora of graduate and postgraduate degree. This city has some of the reputed medical as well as engineering colleges which includes Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology, Raman Science centre and Laxminarayan Institute of Technology.

In Vidrabh region of Maharahshtra, Nagpur is one of the very important trading centers. However, with the rise of economic progress in the cities like Mumbai and Pune, the economy of this city has witnessed some decline in the past days but gradually it is developing too. The regional branch of the Reserve Bank of India is also situated at Nagpur. In addition, this city is the major industrial hub of the Nagpur region. Butibori industrial area in the Nagpur city is one of the largest industrial areas in the Asia. The largest unit of the Nagpur estate is Indo Rama Synthetics, which manufactures synthetic polymer yarns. The Hingna Industrial estate is located here, in the western part of the city. Mahindra and Mahindra, NECO Ltd, Bajaj Auto Group, and Candico are some of the important unites, which are being located in Nagpur city.

Nagpur is very well accessible by almost all the means of transport such as railways, airways, and Roadways. Nagpur railway station is one of the important Railways junctions of the region, which almost connect every important city of the country. Nagpur city is also well connected with two national highways such as NH-7(Kanyakumari – Varanasi) and NH-6 (Hajira-Kolkata). In addition, it has two Asian highways, which includes AH43 Agra to Matara in Srilanka and AH-6 connecting Kharagpur to Dhule. Nagpur aircraft is the busiest air traffic control in India.

Nagpur city is among all the fastest growing urban area of India. The Real estate market is also on the boom in this city. The city has been witnessing a tremendous development in the industrial as well as the economical front. Now, the city is abundant in all kinds of properties such as residential, commercial, and industrial investment. The Government has also developed a new project called SEZ (Special economic Zone) for the expansion of the commercial estate. An MIHAN project (Multi-modal International Cargo Hub and Airport at Nagpur) is among the ambitious projects of Nagpur city.

One must visit the City of Oranges (Nagpur), since it is the geographical center of India.

What To See In Nagpur

Nagpur is a city, which is vibrantly alive and busting. One may feel delighted to visit Nagpur with its lush green gardens and serene lake. Often, Nagpur is referred to as “Orange City.” The cultivation of oranges is the main stay of agricultural activity at Nagpur with a production of near about five lakh tone oranges. This city has an excellent location at the center, which connects it to almost all the cities of India namely- Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and New Delhi.

Nagpur is the second most important cities of Maharashtra; it is also called as second capital. The king of Deogad founded Nagpur city. In the earlier centuries, this city has also served as the capital of the Bhosale ruler, since situated in the center of India. The modern era has resulted in enrichment of the Nagpur city, as far as monument heritage is concerned. There are number of tourist attraction in Nagpur city, which will keep you busy in sight viewing of city. Below is some of the important information related to major places of attraction, which should be visited on a trip to Nagpur.

Dragon Palace Temple

Dragon Palace temple is one of the Buddhist temples. It is situated in Kamptee, a satellite township of Nagpur district. This Dragon Palace temple is dedicated to Lord Buddha. This palace boasts of the architecture and picturesque of landscape. Mother Norika Ogawa Society of Japan has founded the Dragon palace temple.

Seminary Hill

Seminary hill is a small hillock, which is situated at a distance of near about 6 km from the old Nagpur city. Seminary of St. Charles is located on the hill, after which this hill is named. This hill is known for providing some of the stunning and beautiful view of the city.

Ambazari Lake

Ambazari Lake is a peaceful lake, which is situated on the western outskirts of the Nagpur city. This lake is spread over an area of 15.4 sq.m and beautifully surrounded by landscaped garden, which adds to its beauty as well. Apart from the good walking trails, the other major attraction of Ambazari Lake is boating facilities that have been provided here.

Sitabuldi Fort

Sitabuldi Fort is a magnificent structure built by the British Officer in the year 1857. However, this stands balanced on the twin mountains and is been visited on a frequent basis by tourists.

Maharaj Baug and Zoo

Later, Maharaj Baug was converted into a Botanical garden. Bhosale ruler had set this Bagh, but today it also houses a zoo. This zoo serves a house to some rare species of animals and birds.

Sri Poddareshwar Ram Mandir

Shri Poddareshwar Mandir is a temple, which is being dedicated to Lord Rama. This temple dates back to the year 1923. This Poddareshwar Ram Mandir is constructed out of marble and adorned with sandstone carving work. This Ram Mandir enshrines the idols of Lord Rama, Sita Mata, and Lakshmana (Brother of Lord Rama).

Balalji Mandir

Balaji Mandir is a temple, which is surrounded by tranquil and awesome environment all around the Seminary hill. As the name suggest, this temple is dedicated to Shri Balaji, presiding deity. Here there is also the idol of Lord Kartikeya, who is regarded as the commander of the God’s Army.

Gandhi Baug

Gandhi bagh is named after the Mahatma Gandhi – The father of Nation. Gandhi Baug is beautifully landscaped garden.

Shri Ganesh Tekdi Mandir

This Ganesh Tekdi Mandir is believed to be near about 250 years old. Shri Ganesh Tekdi Temple is one of the most popular and famous temple in Nagpur city. Its name is given as Tekdi Ganapati because it is constructed on a hill and in Marathi Language; a hill is called as Tekdi.

Deeksha Bhoomi

Deeksha Bhoomi is one the most important religious places for the Buddhist people and also for the Neo Buddhists. This place is situated almost in the heart of the Nagpur city on a very big ground with a structure of Stupa. Deeskshabhoomi is the place where, Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar embraced Buddhism in the year 1956 and at the same time more than five lakhs of his followers too changed to Buddhism on Vijaya Dashami Day.

Nevertheless, after reading this article, surely you would have developed an interest to visit the city of orange, Nagpur. Do not wait, go ahead, and catch a lifetime experience by visiting this awesome Nagpur city.

19. Nanded

Nanded in Maharashtra is one of the historical places in Marathwada region. The city of Nanded is situated on the banks of Godawari River. The place is very famous for Sikh Gurudwaras. The place is of great antiquity and it is known to have been ruled by Nandas for generations. Pandavas traveled through the land in Puranic days. It was also a part of the Mauryan Empire during the rein of Emperor Ashoka.

Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth spiritual leader of the Sikhs came here in Nanded in 1708. He declared himself the last guru and established the Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal guru of the Sikhs. The Granth is considered as a living Guru by the Sikh community. There is a monument where the Guru Gobind Singh breathed his last. Maharaja Ranjit Singh built the sacred temoles Takth Sri Patna Sahib and Takth Sri Hazur Sahib. The later is in Nanded and the Gurudwara features an imposing golden dome with intricate carvings. The artwork at the gurudwara in Nanded is breathtaking.

Sachkand Gurudwara is among the five Takhts and houses the holy Sri Guru Granth Sahib. Nearly Millions of pilgrims visit this place each year. There are eight beautifully constructed Gurudwaras in Nanded along the river and all these are connected to the life of the tenth Guru.

There is a Masjid in Nanded, the Masjid of Biloli. This place of worship for the Muslims was constructed in the 17th century. Sarfaraz Khan built it and hence is popularly called as Nawab Sarfaraz Masjid.

Shrikshetra Mahurgad is a Hindu Pilgrimage center and a very popular Shaktipeeth. The temple is on top of a hill just a mile away from Nanded. The Yadava rulers built it in the 11th century.

The village of Unkeshvar is located on the banks of River Penganga. There are hot water springs here and they are supposed to have healing powers. The spring waters are miraculous and have miracle skin rejuvenating properties.

Nanded fort and Kandhar fort are the forts in Nanded. Nanded fort is near to the Railway station and has beautiful landscaped gardens and fountains. The Nanded fort is surrounded by water from three sides. Kandhar fort was constructed by King of Malkhed. The architecture of the fort has some amazingly elaborates security designs. There is a ditch in the periphery and Mogul style construction in the Kandhar fort is remarkable.

Other places of tourist interest in Nanded are the narrow winding and tightly knit streets. The designs lend its character to dense buildings with elongated courtyards. The traditional dwellings are aesthetically constructed and the temples and Gurudwaras have uncanny appeal.

What To See In Nanded

Nanded is well known as an important holy place of the Sikhs. Millions of pilgrims and tourists visit the city of Nanded every year. The tenth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh made Nanded his home. He breathed his last here and there is a monument at tat place. He declared himself the last guru and revered the Granth to Granth Sahib as a living Guru. The Granth is the eternal guru of the Sikh community and is housed in Sachkand Gurudwara.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh constructed the beautiful Gurudwara of Nanded around 1835 AD. The Gurudwara has a gold dome and is decorated with intricate carvings. The artwork on the walls and the building of the Gurudwara is breathtaking. This place is known as Shri Huzur Abchalnagar Gurudwara. Eight other Gurudwaras are beautifully constructed along the banks of the river Godavari. All these gurudwaras are connected with the life of Guru Gobind Singh.

Mahur is a popular pilgrim center of the Hindus. It is one of the Shaktipeeths in Maharashtra state. The place has a beautiful temple of Goddess Renuka Mata. The temple is located on a hillock, amidst natural beauty. The temple was built by the Yadava kings of Devgari about eight to nine hundred years back. There is a big fair held here during Dasara festival and people from all over come her to seek blessings.

Masjid of Biloli is a popular place of worship belonging to the Muslim community. Sarfaraz Khan who was an Army officer in the Mughal force built this Masjid. Hence this place is also famous as Hazrat Nawab Sarfaraz Khan Masjid. The masjid is beautiful and carved out of a stone. The minaret in the North side has eight chains and encloses a bell shaped figure.

Kandhar fort is popular tourist place in Nanded. This fort has water ditch that encompasses the fort. The Rashtrakuta King Krishna of Malkhed built the fort of Kandhar. The fort was carved during the Nizamshahi period and the domes are of Ahmednagar style.

Nanded fort is located near the Nanded railway station. The most amazing thing about the fort is that it is surrounded by River Godawari from three sides. There are beautifully laid out gardens in the fort and the fountains add to the beauty. The scenic beauty of this fort in Nanded attracts tourists from all over.

Malegaon has a popular temple of Khandoba. A fair is held here every year and it is called as Malegaon yatra. The fair has a animal market and people from far off places come her e to trade animals.

Hottal is a place in Degloor Taluka. There is a very important Shiv Mandir here. The temple has some art forms from the Chalukya era that are carved out of stones.

Shopping in Nanded

The shops in Nanded have all assortments of swords and knives. These weapons are exquisitely decorated and have beautiful sheaths. Nanded is good for a fantastic photo shoot and you can get a photo in a warrior Sikh make up. You can have good deals while you are shopping in Nanded market while buying a copper ring and various kadhas before entering the Gurudwara.

20. Nasik

The city of Nasik situated on the banks of Godavari River, at an altitude of 565m above the level of sea. Nasik is situated in the northwestern part of Maharashtra state, India. Nasik is the major Hindu pilgrimage center with rich culture and tradition. However, there are number of beautiful ghats located on the banks of the Godavari River. Moreover, the major part of Nasik lies on the right bank of the river Godavari. Panchavati, the left bank also has several temples on its side. During the festival season, Nasik becomes very crowded. Well, Kumbha Mela is the largest religious gathering in India. It is believed that, a holy dip in the Godavari River in a predetermined time may wash away all the sins of devotees.

Nasik is also well known as the Grapes city. Grapes are the major production of fruit in Nasik. Day by day, the wine companies are increasing in Nasik, so it is also known to be a wine city. The city houses to near about 20 lac peoples. Nasik is the city, which is interspersed by forts, wineries, temples, and industrial units. The important temples in Nasik city are Kalaram Mandir, Sundar Narayan Mandir, Kapaleshwar, Someshwar, Trimbakeshwar, Sita Gunfa, Tapovan, Bhaktidham, Muktidham, Kalika Mandir, Navashya Ganpati, Modakeshwar Mandir, Ichhamani Ganpati, Ved Mandir, and Ekmukhi Datta Mandir.

The term Nasik is derived from the word Nashik. It is based on the Indian mythology of Laxmana (brother of Lord Rama) who cuts off the nose of Shurpnakha; during the period of their exile, from this story the word Nashik is derived. In Sanskrit, nose is referred as ‘Nasika’, hence known as Nasik. Sita Gumpha caves, where the Lord Rama, Sita, and Laxmana had stayed is still here. This is the place from where the Sita (wife of Lord Rama) was abducted by the demon King, Ravana.

The history records of Nasik dates back to the 150 BC. Earlier, Nasik was also known as one of the most important trade centers of India. During the Mughal period, city was also known to be as Gulshanabad. However, later under the rule of Peshwas gave the present name to city as Nashik, when they had taken the control of city in the year 1818. When the rule of peshwas under set and soon the glorious city went in the hands of British Raj. Till 1947, Nasik remained under the influence of colonial rule of Britishers.

During the British Raj, the major events in the history of Nasik include the establishment of the first modern libraries of Mahabharata in the year 1864. In the year 1869, Nasik was made as a district. However, Nasik is the city, which is also well known for the exceptional bravery shown by a teenage, named as Anand Kanhere at the time of freedom struggle movement of India. In the later years, the city has again seen the movement launched by Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar. This movement was for the abolition of untouchability and elevation of the Dalit people status in the social fabrics of contemporary India.

After independence, the Government established several plans to boost the industrial development of Nasik. Because of which, Nasik also emerged as a prominent place on the Map of India. In recent years, Nasik has become a well-balanced modern city with excellent infrastructural facilities for agriculture as well as IT based industries. The growing pattern of the city has attracted many investors from and across the country to invest in Nasik properties.

However, Nasik does not have the characteristics of an established hill station, but the location in which it is situated makes it an appealing holiday destination.

What To See In Nasik

Nasik city is situated on the banks of the River Godavari, Maharashtra. This city is home to number of temples and ghats. Apart from the ghats and temple, Nasik has many other attractions. However, all these attractions make a wonderful experience while on a visit to Nasik city. Kumbha Mela is said to be the largest religious gathering on earth, which is well promoted by Maharashtra Tourism.

Coin Museum

Coin museum is the only museum of its kind in Asia. However, it is the most famous destinations in Nasik for visitors.

Kalaram Mandir

Another major attraction in Nasik is the Kalaram Mandir. This temple is situated in the Panchavati area of Nasik city. It was constructed by Sardar Odhekar of Peshwa in the year 1790. This temple is the biggest and at the same time, simplest among all the temple being situated here. This temple is carved out of black stones. In addition, these stone were brought from Ramshej and about 200 years ago. Near about 23 lakhs rupees and 2000 worker were employed for the construction of this temple. The mount of Kalaram Mandir is made up of 32 tons of Gold.

Pandu Lena

Pandu Lena caves are situated near the Nasik city, India. It is situated at a distance of only 8km towards the south region. Pandu Lena is one among the numerous Buddhist caves, which were built in the country during the flourishing days of this religion.

RamKund/ Gandhi Memorial

It is believed that, here in Ramkund, Lord Rama bathed. Mortal remains immersed in this Ramkunda are absorbed in the water immediately. A dip in this kunda is considered very pious. Gandhi Lake or Talav situated near the Ramkund is a memorable monument built in the memory of the Father of Nation Mahatma Gandhi. This monument is carved out of white marble.

Muktidham Temple

Muktidham temple is situated 7 km away form the center of Nasik city. This temple is built with a shining white makrana marble. However, the temple is very popular for its magnificent and unique architecture. The white walls of the temple have been adorned with the 18 chapter of the Gita. In the Hindu religion, it is been believed that visiting Muktidham temple holds a significance as visiting the four dhams or holy centers.

Someshwar

Someshwar is a village, which is located on the outskirts of the Nasik city and on the banks of River Godavari. Someshwar village is surrounded by lush greenery. The picturesque of village boasts of temple, which are dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Hanuman. Navasha Ganpati Temple is quite popular here. The weather condition of the village is pleasant. In addition, the village is popular for swimming as well as boating. In addition, it has been used as a shooting location for many of the movies.

Deolali Camp

Deolai camp is among the oldest military centers in India. However, it dates back to the year 1861.The main aim behind the establishment of Deolali camp was to provide a place where the mentally strained and worn out soldiers could take rest here. One of the major attractions here is Khandobachi Tekadi temple, which is visited by many devotees in a large numbers.

Artillery center

Artillery center of Nashik city is situated behind the Pandav caves. This center is regarded as one of the biggest artillery center in Asia. However, earlier it was situated in Pakistan but after the partition in the year 1947, it was shifted to Nasik. At this center, training is provided to soldiers and officers of the Indian Army. Moreover, army officers are taught to handle the ‘Bofors Gun’.

Panchavati

Panchavati is a place, which is situated in the northern part of Nashik. According to the legends, Lord Ram along with his wife Sita and brother Laxmana stayed here for some time during their period of exile. Panchavati derives its name from the five banyan (“Vad”) trees here.

Sita Gumpha

Literally, Sita Gumpha means a cave. Sita Gumpha cave is located near the Panchavati. It is one of the major attractions of the Nasik city, There is a narrow staircase which is used to enter the Sita Gumpha caves. In the caves, one can see the idols of Lord Rama, Sita, and Laxmana. It is believed that, it was from here, Ravana kidnapped Sita.

Nasik is a very large city but it does not appear to be. To relax from the busy world, Nasik is a best city and worth visiting too. There are a number of places and sites that you will admire.

21. Bharatpur

Bharatpur has its share of forts and beautiful palaces that are steeped with tales from the past. Bharatpur is a beautiful city in Rajasthan state. It was founded in 1773 by Maharaja Suraj Mal. It is located in Mewat region and is located almost 50 kms from Agra. During the earlier times, Bharatpur was known as an impregnable and well fortified city.

It was the capital of the kingdom ruled by the jat maharajas and it played an important part in the history along with places like Deeg and Dholpur. The royal house of Bharatpur has a history since the 11th century AD and claims their descent from the Yadav vanshi Sindha Pal. Bharatpur is also known as Lohagrah. In this region you will find statues of well-respected royals of Rajasthan.

History states that Bharatpur was named after Bharata, the youngest brother of Lord Rama. Lord Laxman is the family deity of the royal family of Bharatpur. Bharatpur is known to be founded by Lord Aditya Consul in the 17th century. The part of Bharatpur is its location. This location is really convenient for tourists from many states, so that you can easily reach the place. The land keeps history in its heart. Bharatpur tells many stories about Rajasthan Royals of braveries against the attack by Mughals and British. The area is also famous for palaces, forts, and the Rajput and Mughal architectures. These palaces are beautifully built. Each palace and architecture has its own story about their fighters.

Lohagarh fort, Bharatpur fort and Dholpur forts are worth a trip. Jawahar Burj, Fateh Burj palaces and the Bharatpur Lake are also sites worth visiting for their natural beauty. However, the most beautiful monument is the Deeg Water Palace, which was built by Raja Suraj Mahal in the 18th century. It has a very well laid out garden and the most amazing water conservation and natural cooling systems.

If you find watching birds and counting the colorful feathers, then you are welcome to Bharatpur. This is the place that will give you an idea about why Dr. Salim Ali was mesmerized by birds. You will find range of birds in and around the Bharatpur region. These beautiful varieties of birds attract tourists every year and make a great paradise to visit. Bharatpur is synonymous with the Keoladeo Ghana National Park, which is India’s most famous bird sanctuary. The marshy wetlands were the hunting grounds of the maharajas and British sahibs.

It is now a protected home for thousands of water birds both local and migratory. You can spend your time watching the wonderful varieties of birds like ducks, geese, strokes, flamingoes, and pelicans that have flown in from distant countries. Prince Bhamil of Morvi was pretty much active in implementation of the region converting into a wildlife reserve. It was practice to that they organize duck shoots almost every year in the honor of Lord Curzon who was Viceroy at that time. Bharatpur also used to be one of the states that located on the edges of famous Thar desert.

Bharatpur welcomes you with all its uniqueness to enjoy all the aspects of this little city.

What to See in Bharatpur

Bharatpur is situated in eastern Rajasthan in India. It is known for the Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary. The STD code of the city is 05644. A huge number of tourists come here to visit the Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary. The best season for visiting this place is considered as the months between October and February. The people here speak Hindi and English. It is situated 56 kilometers from Jaipur and 215 kilometers from New Delhi. This city was founded by Maharaja Suirajmal. Bharatpur has a rich history of its architecture and heritage. But today it is lagging behind from other cities of Rajasthan. Even though Bhratapur is considered as one of the best places in Rajasthan for the tourists, the primary reason for this is that it has exotic bird life here. In the historical period, this place was famous as a duck shooting spot and today it has become a place where you can find more than 380 species of birds. Here is some information on your query as what to see in Bharatpur.

Climate of Bharatpur Being in Rajasthan, the climate of this place is hot. The temperature ranges from 38 degrees Celsius to 45 degrees Celsius. During the monsoons the temperature falls to about 27 degrees. The months from July to August experiences the monsoons here. The temperature during the winters may be as low as 10 degrees or below. Fog and mist is prevalent during the month of January.

Things to See in Bharatpur

The Bharatpur bird sanctuary is listed among the UNESCO world heritage sites. The most important attraction in Bharatpur is the Keoladeo National Park named after lord Shiva. It is a paradise for bird lovers and you can find more than 375 species of birds. The other major attraction here is butterflies. There are about 35 species of butterflies and you can visit this park during monsoons as well as winter season. You can hire a cycle and tour the place or take a cycle-rickshaw. The rickshawalas are very knowledgeable about the various bird species and can give you a running commentary when you are touring the place.

Bharatpur palace is a fusion of Mughal and Rajput art and now has a museum. Ganga mandir was built in the 18th century and each person employed in the services of the state was asked to donate a month’s salary to construct it. Laxman mandir has beautiful stonework with carvings in doors, pillars and arches. Deegh has many palaces that are in excellent conditions and are worth a visit. There is unique and beautiful furnishing in these palaces and there are well-planned Mughal gardens with calm pools and fountains. There are richly ornamented and carved cornices, pavilions and attics in the palaces.

Shopping in Bharatpur

Shopping in Bharatpur can be fun and very exciting. There are some great deals at shopping arenas like the Mathura gate, Chaurburja Bazaar, Ganga Mandir and Laxmi Mandir. You can take home some of the typical Indian souvenirs and curios. If you are a hard-core shopper, you can shop at Jaipur, which is very near to Bharatpur. You can buy some ethnic jewelry and textile items. The most beautiful things for shopping are the lac bangles and jewelry laiden with colorful precious and semi-precious stones. The bandhej (tie and dye) clothes are a must buy here as you can buy some very vibrant and colorful stuff here.

Hope you know have enough information on what to see in Bharatpur.

22. Jhalawar

Jhalawar is a city in the Jhalawar district of the state of Rajasthan. It was known as Brijnagar in the olden days. Today, the main town of Jhalawar it is known as Patan or Jhalrapatan. It was founded by the side of an artificial lake by Zalim Singh in 1796.

Jhalawar has rich historic as well as natural wealth. If you are a nature lover, Jhalawar is a place for you. Jhalawar lies on the south eastern region of Rajasthan state at the edge of the malwa plateau. It has a rocky and water laden verdant landscape. There are some very beautiful pre-historic cave paintings, massive forts, thickly wooded forest which is a home to a variety of exotic wildlife. You can spot countless species of birds as you drive by the lush countryside and you can also enjoy the red poppy fields and orange laden orchards.

The Kartik fair also called as the Chandrabhaga fair is the the hot attraction of the region. An extensive and elegant ruin near the town is worth a look and the finest feature of this is the remains of a temple of Sitaleshwar Mahadeva.

The Jhalawar fort is located in the heart of the city. It has some very beautiful mirror works and frescos on the walls of the zenana khas or the women’s quarters.

The Buddhist caves at Kolvi are a must visit on the tours to Jhalawar. These are said to date back to the age of Ashoka, the Maurian emperor. There is a massive statue of Buddha that is very beautiful. The caves are carved out of single rocks and have rectangular doorways that lead to the dark interiors where there are images of Buddha displayed.

You can visit the Gagron fort, the Bhavani Natya shala and the government museum on your visit to Jhalawar.

What To See In Jhalawar

Jhalawar fort lies at the center of the town. There are some very exquisite paintings and mirrors on the walls of the Zanana Khas.

Government museum is one of the oldest museums of Rajasthan state and was established in 1915 A.D. it has a fine collection of paintings, rare manuscripts, idols and very beautiful statues of Laxminarayan, Lord Vishnu. Krishna, Ardhanarishwar, Nataraj amd Trimurti.

Bhawani Natyashala is the most unusual theater in India. This theater was constructed in 1921 A.D. and Parsi theater was performed there.

Rein Basera is a picturesque wooden cottage on the banks of Kishan sagar pond and is a very good picnic spot. The most amazing thing about this cottage is that it was build in a different spot and as later transported.

Chandrabhaga temple lies on the banks of the Chandrabhaga River and was build in the 7th century. There are temples and intricately carved pillars and arched gateways in the temple. The temple of Shantinath Jain is also noteworthy and has very fine murals and exquisite sculptures.

Gagron fort was built over several centuries like 8th to 18th century and has witnessed many battles. This fort is surrounded by tranquil waters of the ahu and kali Sindh Rivers on the three sides. There is a beautiful mausoleum of a Sufi saint Mitheshah just outside the fort and is a venue of a colorful fair during Muharram.

Jhalrapatan ruins cover an area of more than a mile from east to west and about a mile from north to south. It is famous for very beautiful and large temples. The most famous of the temples is the Sitaleshwar Mahadeva. Other temples of Kalika devi, Varaha Avtar and Jain temple of Shantinath are equally beautiful.

23. Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer nick named as the ‘Golden City of India’ is situated in the state of Rajasthan. The town of Jaisalmer stands on the ridge of yellowish sandstone and is crowned by a fort. The fort has a palace and several ornate Jain temples. The houses are amber hued and temples are finely sculptured and are an architectural delight. The sand Dunes, camel safaris are a truly unforgettable experience and you can enjoy the breath taking beauty of the desert at sunset. No wonder then, the city is hence is also referred to as “The Jewel of the Desert”.

Jaisalmer is named after the founder Rao Jaisal and literally means the Hill Fort of Jaisal. This is a living fort and even today, most of the city’s population lives in the fort.

Jaisalmer was one of the last states to sign a treaty with the British rulers. The present royal descendent Brijraj Singh does a lot of welfare work in the city and the royal family still commands respect from the people.

The city has given dancers and musicians to the world. The manganyar musicians play all over the world and are liked by many. Jaisalmer festivals held in Jan-Feb are very colorful and vibrant are a major tourist attraction.

Among the not to be missed at all are the Jaisalmer fort, Patwon ki haveli, Salim Singh Ki Haveli. Nathmalji Ki haveli, Tazia Tower, Bara Bagh and the very beautiful Gadsisar Lake.

What To See In Jaisalmer

You can see the Sam sand dunes situated 40 kms away form the city. You can watch cultural programmes and Rajasthani dances organized by the RTDC.

Khuri sand dunes are another such location you should visit. There are also some private tents available at reasonable rates. You can also enjoy good food and camel safari to the dunes and enjoy the folk dances

The major attraction is the Jaisalmer fort also known as Sonar Kila as it is built out of yellow sandstone. The setting sun and the golden hues of the desert ambience give it a fairy tale look. The interiors of this fort are amazing and you can visit many havelis.

Jain temple is another place to see. There are seven beautifully carved temples in the fort area. These temples belong to the 12-15th century. These are connected by walkways and corridors. There is a mandir of Chandraprabhu who is the eight Jain Tirthankar.

Gadi Sagar is a rainwater lake and it supplies water to the city. It is surrounded by beautiful temples and tombs of saints and you can enjoy a boat ride in it.

Shopping in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is very famous for its embroidery, Rajasthani mirror work, blankets, rugs and the finely cut antiques. You can buy exquisitely embroidered garments with beautiful mirror work here, as it is a good place for buying. Traditional rugs, blankets and shawls are a must buy items here as you get very good quality at very reasonable rates here. Silver jewelry, stonework, carpets made of camel hair, colorful silk and cotton clothes are also available here at very reasonable rates.

24. Deshnok

Did you know rats are worshipped? There is this amazing temple in Deshnok in Rajasthan where rats are worshipped. Deshnok is a small village in Bikaner district along the Jodhpur road in Rajasthan state. This is a sacred place which was formed by taking the corner land of ten nearby villages. There is a famous temple of Karni Mata which is very revered. Karni Mata is said to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga born to a Charan.

The temple of Karni Mata is the only place in the world where rats are worshipped and fed by the devotees. The temple is a house to a number of brown rats. The temple comes out live during navratras. A fair is held twice a year in and people all over the country pay a holy visit to the temple.

What To See In Deshnok

Deshnok is a fascinating place to visit and the temple of Deshnok is a great attraction. This temple is dedicated to Karni Mata and the temple is a wonder as it houses thousands of rats who are given a royal treatment. The temple is situated about 30 kms from Bikaner and attracts tourists from everywhere. Other important features of the temple are the silver doors with gold domes. The main gate of the temple is beautifully carved and the sanctum houses the image of goddess. It is amazing to see the holy rats all around the place. This is the only place where the rats are free and are worshipped.

Apart from the Karni Mata mandir you can visit Sri Nehri Ji, a place where Karni Mata used to meditate. There is an ever green tree which is situated 2 kms from Deshnok and it is believed to be 591 years old. Legend goes that, Karni Mata stuck a stick and sprinkled it with some curd and from it grew this holy tree. It has been worshipped for centuries and there is also a statue of Karni Mata installed below this tree.

There is a Karni Mata museum which is situated opposite to the temple of Karni Mata. The hall is very big and has beautiful marble flooring. Huge paintings adorn the walls of the museum and there are antique paintings that bring to life the incidents from the life of Karni Mata.

You can visit Bikaner, which is an ancient fortified town situated 30 kms away and explore it. It is a good place for shopping typical Rajasthani items. You can buy some thing as gifts for friends back home.

25. Chittaurgarh

Chittaurgarh is the name that evokes countless images of the courageous Rajput rulers. The Rajput rulers laid down their lives in the battlefield and the queens entered the sacred fires to save themselves and their children from atrocities of the invading army. The history of Chittaurgarh leaves an impression that is wondrous, awe inspiring, confusing and heart rending. The sacrifice by the women folk to preserve their honor and of the city inspires a patriot heart. Your heart will fill with sorrow for the innocent lives lost due to the greed of some people.

Chittaurgarh city is the administrative headquarters of the Chittaurgarh district in the state of Rajasthan. It was the former capital of the Sisodia clans of Chattari Rajputs of Mewar. The fort area of the Chittaurgarh fort is good for exploration. Chittaurgarh fort is a living testimony of the brave Rajput rulers. The architecture of the fort is simply superb. The main places of interest within the fort are the two towers known as ‘Kirti Stambh’ or the tower of fame and the ‘Vijay Stambh’ also called as the tower of victory.

You can ride a bicycle or take an auto -rickshaw to look around the place. Let’s see what all you can see in this fort.

Vijay Stambha: Vijay stambha is one of the two main victory towers which are the symbol of triumph and was built by Rana Khumba, approximately between 1458 an 1468 to remember his victory over Mahmud Shah Khaji in 1440 AD. It raises 37.2 meters. The dome was damaged but again repaired in the 19th century. Today, the stambha enlightens in the evening which flashes a wonderful view. There is a beautiful Sammidheshwar temple near the tower of victory.

Rana Sabha Palace: Near the Vijay Stambha at the entrance gate is Rana Kumbha’s palace. This is the oldest monument. Maharaja Udai Singh was born here, who was the founder of Udaipur. The palace is built from plastered stone. There is a beautiful Sammidheshwar temple near the tower of victory. There is a Gaumukh reservoir and according to the legend, Ala-ud-din-Khilji, the sultan of Delhi was allowed to see the reflection of Queen Padmini in these palaces. Water in this reservoir gushes out of a rock that looks like a cow’s mouth, hence the name Gaumukh. The queen Padmini and other women are believed to have performed Jauhar here. Now there is an archiological office and a museum across the palace. The Singa Chowri Temple is also nearby.

Padmini Palace: It is at this palace where Alauddin was allowed to glance at the mirror image of Rani Padmini, she was the wife of Maharana Rattan Singh. It is believed that the glimpse of Padmini’s beauty obsessed him and persuaded him to destroy Chittor to gain control over her. Maharana Rattan Singh was killed and Rani Padmini committed Jauhar. It is believed that Rani Padmini’s beauty and life story was comparable to Cleopatra and her life history. Akbar removed the bronze gates that belonged to the porch area and transported it to Agra.

Other spots like Bhimtal tank, neelkanth Mahadeva Temple, Meera Temple, Kumbha Shyam Temple and the kalika Mata temple are worth visiting. Visit this fort to see the architecture and to experience the rich history.

What Else See In Chittaurgarh

Chittaurgarh fort is the biggest fort in the country seated on a 180-meter hill and covers an expanse of 700 acres. The famous battle of HaldiGhati took place here between the Sisodias and the Mughals. There is a zigzag road that ascents for one km and leads you through several gateways to the main gate. The two chhatries or the cenotaphs are beautiful and they mark the spots where Jaimal and Kalla fell during the 1568 siege. There are some beautiful views over the town from the fort of Chittaurgarh.

Kalika Mata temple was originally built in the 8th century for the sun god. It was later converted into the temple for Goddess Kali.

Vijay stambh is a very huge nine-storey tower build by Maharana Kumbh in 1440 to celebrate his victory over the Muslim rulers of Malwa. This tower is 122 ft high and has a base of 10 ft. there are beautiful sculptures and carvings on the walls of this tower. The insides of the tower are carved with images of Gods, weapons and other things.

Kirti stambh is another such tower, which is dedicated to Adinath who was the first Jain Tirthankar.

Rana Kumbh Palace is situated near Vijay stambh and is the birthplace of Maharana Udai Singh. This palace is very famous as Rani Padmini committed Jauhar with other women in one of the underground cellars.

Shopping in Chittaurgarh

Chittaurgarh is known for its range of exquisite handicrafts, beautiful thewa jwellery and jutis mad from camel leather. Shopping here is very fascinating and you can buy wooden painted toys from Bassi village.

You can buy curios in marble, sandalwood and sandstone from the markets around Nakki Lake in Chittaurgarh. Kota saris are famous here and you can buy bangles, linen with sanganeri prints. You can buy Rajasthani handicraft items from the Rajasthan Government Handicrafts Emporium in Chittaurgarh.

26. Shekhwati

Shekhwati is a semi desert region in Rajasthan situated entirely in the triangle between the Delhi-Bikaner-Jaipur.

The area of Shekhwati encompasses the area of several villages and towns in the northeastern parts of Rajasthan state. Shekhwati literally means land of Shekhwat rulers. It was founded by Rao Shekha, who came to power at the age of 12. The people of Shekhwati are considered very brave, sacrificing and hardworking. Shekhwati provides the highest number of persons to the Army and hence it is known as the ‘Scotland of India’.

Another very interesting thing about the place is its exquisite frescoes which are popularly known as the open art galleries. This is the largest collection of frescoes in the world and people all over the world come here to admire them. The landscape here is totally bare, flat and colorless, but the culture makes this place vibrant and interesting.

The villages of Shekhwati have kept their rustic charm intact and you can drive along these painted towns and get a wonderful experience. You can also see the unique architectural style of the havelis. You will just marvel at the magical designs and the four pillared wells, temples and step wells when you reach there.

The havelis in Shekhwati are very beautiful and consist of several courtyards. These havelis are exquisitely latticed, carved and most of them have mirror work and mural work. Some of the havelis adorn beautiful paintings on the walls.

Dundlod is situated in the heart of the city and the fort here dates back to the 17th century. The fort has typical Rajputana style that consists of spacious rooms, minarets, flower motifs and paintings.

Sikar has a clock tower and the painted Biyani, Murarka and Somani havelis. The Jain temple and these havelis deserve a visit.

What To See In Shekhwati

Shekawati is a beautiful place located in Rajasthan and is situated entirely in the triangle between the Delhi-Bikaner-Jaipur. The region is world famous for its beautiful Frescos and beautiful havelis. It is called as the ‘Open Art Gallery of Rajasthan’ and many people from all over visit it to get a glimpse of the rich culture of the place.

Havelis of Shekhwati are exceptionally beautiful and painted. The fresco paintings adorn the walls of the havelis and there are intricately carved windows. Most havelis have mirror work and paintings decorated with gold or silver leaf.

Mandawa is also famous for its beautiful havelis. There is a beautiful archway decorated with Lord Krishna and his heard of cows which lead to the main bazaar. There is a fort and a castle which gives you a beautiful view of the place. Chokhani, saraf, goenka, ladai and gulabrai havelis are the most beautiful havelis in Mandawa and are decorated with the finest murals on the exterior as well as the internal walls.

Dundlod is located in the heart of Shekhwati region. Dundlod is very famous for its fort and havelis. The Divan e Khana of the fort is furnished with stained glass windows and very beautiful paintings. The fort dates back to the 17th century and has now been converted into a hotel.

Sikar fort is a site worth visiting and has a market, clock tower and a painted havelis like the Biyani, Murarka and Somani. One haveli is painted in blue like the typical Chinese blue and is a beautiful place to visit. The Jain temples of Gopinath, Raghunath and Madan Mohan are worth a visit.

You can take excursions to places like Khetri that has beautiful fort, temples and paintings. Mukandgarh has a good handicraft market and you can buy some very pretty textile here.

27. Sariska

Sariska tiger reserve is a very famous tourist spot in Rajasthan. It lies in the Alwar district and is well known as a tiger reserve. Sariska is a picturesque place nestled in the valley of the Aravalli hills in the state of Rajasthan. The hills are of different color in different season. They are suffused with scarlet color due to the ‘Flame of the forest’ and other flowering trees which blossom in rich abundance. The park is parched brown during the summer season and gets bathed in the monsoons and becomes lush green. There are beautiful streams and water holes along the jamun trees, Arjun trees and the bamboos that etch filigree against the blue sky.

You can visit the Sariska sanctuary at any point of time and the best way is to take a jeep which can be arranged by the forest reception office in the city. This was the hunting reserve of the maharajas of Alwar and was totally protected for their shoots. The Sariska wild life sanctuary was established in 1955 and taken over by project tiger in 1979.

Apart from the sanctuary, there are many places of religious and historical importance. Pandupol is a well-known place and it is believed that the pandavas stayed here during their exile. This place has a very beautiful natural arch engraved in the limestone by the action of water.

Another interesting place is the Hanuman temple. This place is covered with dense forest and there is a mystery surrounding it. There is a huge idol of Lord Hanuman that goes back to the days of Mahabharata. The presence of monkeys in this area is a delight as these are friendly and do not harm anyone. Other places worth visiting are the Kankawad fort and the Neelkanth temple.

What To See In Sariska

Sariska in Rajasthan is well known for wildlife sanctuary. It also has a lot of historical significance and is mentioned in many religious and ancient texts. There are a number of temples in this region that symbolizes the rich culture if the place.

You can visit the Pandupol situated 24 kms form Sariska. As the legend goes, the pandava brothers founded it as a good hiding place in the 13th century. This has given the place a lot of significance and historical importance and hence many people visit it en route to the national park. This place is a natural arch engraved in limestone because of the action of water on limestone.

On the outskirts of the Sariska sanctuary there are breathtaking views of the ruins of the Bhangarh. This city was founded by Madho Singh, young brother of Man Singh ho was emperor Akbars famous general.

Other places worth visiting are Kankawadi and Neelkanth as they have a picturesque fortress overlooking the lake. Emperor Aurangazeb built Kankawadi fort and he kept his brother as a prisoner inside the fort.

Talbraksha is another place you can visit and take a dip in the sulphur springs adjacent to the temples.

The Hanuman temple is a place with a lot of cultural and religious significance. This temple is situated near the watchtower and is covered with dense foliage that creates a mysterious ambience. There is a huge statue of lord Hanuman that goes back to the days of Mahabharata. There are many monkeys in this area and it is very interesting to watch them.

Located in the Aravalli ranges, the Sariska wildlife sanctuary is a heavenly treat for the nature lovers. The wildlife is a Tiger reserve and the unique feature of these tigers is that they are nocturnal and cannot be spotted like the ones in Ranthambore. There are other rare animals like the porcupine, striped hyena, Sambar, chital and others to name a few. There are different rare species of birds that can be seen in the park. The trees hare are deciduous and dry and mainly include Dhak, Acacia, Ber and Salar.

28. Ranakpur

Ranakpur is a must visit place situated in the picturesque great Aravalli valley region of Rajasthan state. Ranakpur is a village located in the Desuri tehsil near Sadri town in the Pali district. Ranakpur village is very captivating, is located between Jodhpur and Udaipur, and derives its name after Rana Kumbha who was the most open minded and gifted monarch.

The Ranakpur Jain temple is world famous and is one of the most important pilgrim places of the Jain community. This temple was built of white limestone and elaborately adorned with intricate sculptures during the 15th century. There are images of all the 24 tirthankaras are carved on the porticoes in corridor around the shrine. The temple is a unique mix of the Hindu and Jain influence. The most outstanding feature of this temple is its infinite pillars. These pillars are places in such a way that none of them obstructs the view of the image of God.

There is also a very old Sun temple in front of the Jain temple. This temple is adorned with polygonal wall richly embellished with beautiful carvings of warriors, horses and solar deities. The deities are riding splendid chariots the vehicle of the sun god. Sun god is considered as the god of prosperity according to mythology and a shining destiny in this world.

Ranakpur is also famous for its wildlife sanctuary. Here you can enjoy the beauty of the Aravalli ranges and encounter the wildlife. There are rare birds, wild pigs, jackals, panthers and other wild animals in the sanctuary.

What To See In Rankapur

Ranakpur is a village located in the Desuri tehsil near Sadri town in the Pali district. Ranakpur village is very captivating, is located between Jodhpur and Udaipur.

Ranakpur has some excellently carved 15th century Jain temples in amber stone. It is one of the five holiest places of the Jain community. The basement of this great complex of the Jain temple covers 48,000sq ft area. It features four additional shrines with 24 pillared halls and domes. The dome is supported by more than 4oo columns and there are in all 1444 columns that support the temple. All the columns are carved intricately and have a different appearance. The most beautiful are the engraved nymphs playing flute in various dance positions at an elevation of 45 feet.

There is the temple dedicated to The Sun God. This temple is very beautiful and is adorned with polygonal wall richly embellished with beautiful carvings of warriors, horses and solar deities. This is another important tourist spot in Ranakpur, which is very popular.

You can take a ride to the outskirts like the Sadari- Desuri-Ghanerao and Narhai. You can enjoy a jeep safari through the Ranakpur valley or take a Horseback safari from Udaipur to Ranakpur. You can also indulge in other things like night drives, nature hikes through the beautiful Aravalli mountains.

The Ranakpur wildlife sanctuary is beautiful and is surrounded with the beautiful Aravalli range. You can watch wildlife like birds, wild pigs, jackals and other wild animals from close quarter.

29. Pokran

Pokran literally means the place of five mirages. The name is apt, as it is surrounded by rocky and sandy topography and has five salt ranges. It is en route from Jodhpur to Jaislamer and Bikaner to Jaislamer. It is strategically located in between the triangle of Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Bikaner.

Pokran city is located in the Jaisalmer district in the state of Rajasthan. It is located in the Thar Desert and is more famous for the site for India’s first underground nuclear weapon detonation. The operation was ironically named as The Buddha Smiles. Pokran once again caught the world attention in 1998 when five more nuclear tests took place under its sandy surface. This operation was named as The Buddha Laughs.

The town is famous for a fair held in the name of local Deity, Baba Ramdev. There is a red fort located in the heart of the city. The havelis are a major tourist attraction along with the Kailash Tekri temple and Bhairav’s caves. The largest library in Asia is housed here. There are other places of tourist importance like the Sathlmer and narasar ponds, Hingalaj temple, Shakti sthal and many more.

Pokran is also an abode to thousands of Damsel cranes, Houbara Bustard, The great Indian Bustard and the Imperial Sand Grouse. These come all the way from Siberia to the desert for food, water and to sunbathe. You can also see the Chinkara if you are lucky enough.

What To See In Pokran

Pokharan is en route from Jodhpur to Jaislamer and Bikaner to Jaislamer in Rajasthan. It is strategically located in between the triangle of Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Bikaner.

The main attraction in Pokran is the Pokran fort. The fort was built in the 14th century citadel and is also known as Balagarh. You can stay here and enjoy the view of the ornamentally carved red sandstones of the mahal. The traditional jharokas and the grand turrets give a peep into the royalty and reflect the fusion of the Rajput and Mughal style of Architecture. You can look at the in-house museum of the family collection of the armory, garments, handicrafts and the miniature paintings. The grand library has classic books dedicated to the great Rao Bahadur Rajshree Thakur.

There is a beautiful lake called as Salam Sagar situated in the backyard of the fort. Ramdevsar is another attractive spot, which is very beautiful during the rainy season. The lakes are frequented by migratory birds and inhibited by tortoises. Pokran is also a home to the shrine of the deity Ramdeoji who is considered as the reincarnation of Lord Krishna. A fair named after him is held for 10 days in the month of September and people all over come to visit the place.

The Jain temple near Gandhi chowk has a cluster of three temples. It has temples of Adeshwar Bhagwan, Chintamani Parshwanath and Shanti Parashwanath. These temples are very important pilgrimage centers for the Jain community and are one of the five centers of worship.

Shopping in Pokharan

The Bhuralal Kaluram Soni is a famous jeweler shop in western Rajasthan. You get unique jewellery pieces with traditional touch and people all over the world shop here for the traditional gold items like Mohan Kanthi, Chandan Haar, Mohan Mala, Pankhi Haar, Aad Jhalara, Timaniya, Bajoo Bandh, Jhoomar and other things.

30. Aurangabad

Aurangabad city from Maharashtra is a city of great historic importance. The place is a tourist hub and is surrounded by a number of historic monuments. These include the famous Ajanta caves, Ellora caves, Bibi Ka Makbara and others.

In medieval history, Aurangabad was used as a base to visit the sites that were considered as World Heritage like Ellora and Ajanta caves. The city got its name from the last great Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb; this city acquired many monuments with rich culture as its pride during the middle ages. Because of this great emperors role in the history of medieval India, Aurangabad has become a popular place and one great tourist attraction. Due to his efforts and under his rule, Aurangabad became the seat of the powerful Mughal Empire. This place is also popular because of architectural structure called Bibi-ka-Maqbara, which resembles the Taj Mahal of Delhi.

Malik Amber founded it in 1610 AD on the site of a village called Kharki. He was the prime minister of Nizam Shah of Ahmednager and made it his capital. Since Ambar cherished a strong love and inclination towards architecture, Aurangabad was Ambars architectural achievement. Later on Fateh Khan succeeded Amber and changed the name to Fatehnagar.

Among the most important tourist attractions in Aurangabad, the most beautiful is the Bibi Ka Makbara. It is an excellent example of Persian art and architecture of those times. This place is the mausoleum of Rabia Durani, wife of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. It is the replica of the Taj Mahal of Agra.

Other places that are popular in Aurangabad are Aurangabad Caves like Ajanta and Ellora, Khuldabad, Daulatabad Fort, Panchakki, Grihneshwar Temple, Himroo Factory, Shirdi, Darwazas, Paithan, and History Museum of Marathwada University.

The Ajanta and Ellora caves are very famous as Aurangabad caves. They were excavated between the 3rd and 11th century. UNESCO lists these Aurangabad caves as Heritage structures.

You can go to Aurangabad by airways or roadways. Airport of Aurangabad is linked with Delhi, Jaipur and Mumbai. Two trains are also available from Mumbai to Aurangabad. Luxury and state buses are available from Mumbai to Aurangabad, which offers good service at affordable prices.

There is a panchakki or water mill that belongs to the 17th century. It is famous for its underground water channels which pass through more than 8km from their source in the mountains. These channels provide water fountain that powers the mill.

There are 52 gates to the city of Aurangabad and each one of them has a story to tell. Hence, Aurangabad is also called as “A city of Gates”. Ghrishneshwar temple is a 18th century structure that has an outstanding structure and carvings. This temple is on of the five Jyotirlinga places in Maharashtra. There is a temple of Devi Ahilya Holkar nearby.

Khuldabad is a walled town which has a number of shrines. The most famous ones are the ones of the saints of Dakhan. Earlier this place was known as the garden of paradise-Rauza. At present, it is called as a valley of saints or the abode of eternity. This is because several sufi saints chose to reside here in the 14th century.

Quila-E-Ark was ordered to build this place in 1692. the space covered by it is the whole ground between the Mecca Gate and the Dehli gate. There is a nagarkhana for the musicians and has 5 gateways. The walls are battle-mented and loo-holed and have circular towers. Guns were once mounted on these towers.

What To See In Aurangabad

Aurangabad is the most visited tourist place in Maharashtra. The city is named after Aurangazeb who established it in 1633. the city is emerging as an industrial center with silk and Himroo fabrics as the major industry products. There are a number of places of tourist attractions in Aurangabad.

Panchakki or the water mill is the major place of attraction. The water mill is an engineering marvel. The mill is driven by the water brought from 6 kms away in earthen pipes. There is a shrine of Baba Shah Muzaffar nearby Who was the spiritual guru of Aurangzeb.

Bibi Ka Makbara is the tomb of Begum Rabia-ud-Durani. She was the wife of Aurangzeb and this monument was built in her honor. This structure has a lot of resemblance to the Taj Mahal from Agra. Hence, it is also called as Poor Man’s Taj Mahal. The monument is an excellent example of Persian architecture and is in excellent condition.

Himroo factories are siuated in the old town of Aurangabad. These produce hand woven Himroo shawls and fabric. These are prepared from cotton, silk and silver threads. This art is also popularly known as Kam Khab. This thing is taken as a cheaper version and substitute to the prized brocades of silk and gold threads.

Aurangabad caves are located at a distance of 5 kms from the city. These caves are situated amidst the hills and date back to 3AD. These caves show Tantrik influence evident from the iconography and Architectural designs.

The caves of Ajanta and Ellora are the world famous structures. These are so famous that people from all over the world come to Aurangabad to see them.

Quila-E-Ark is another popular tourist spot in Aurangabad. It has a nagarkhana for the musicians and five gateways. There are remains of extensive garden and half ruined tanks. The Darbar hall and the Jama masjid.

Aurangabad ruins are the most conspicuous ruins of palace of Asaf Jah and Qila Ark. Malik Ambar established himself here and built many mosques and buildings. He built Naukonda palace in 1616.

31. Viratnagar (Bairat)

The city of Viratnagar was founded by king virat in whose kingdom the pandavas spend their exile in disguise. There is a place called as Bhim ki Dungari or Pandu’s hill where there is a large cave. This was supposed to be the abode of Bhim and several other small rooms were occupied by his brothers. There is also Kichaks palace in this area. Parleys were conducted in viratnagar to avoid the war of Mahabharata. The king of Viratnagar, played a important role in the peace parleys which eventually failed and lead to the most famous and destructive war of the Mahabharata.

Beejak ki pahari is a wonderful site which has remnants of a Buddhist Monastery dating back to the 1st and 3rd century AD. This place also has some very important Ashokan inscriptions and the beautiful Jain temple tells you about the antiquity at this place. The inscriptions on the ruins indicate that king Ashoka built the monasteries.

Ganesh Giri temple and the museum have scenic beauty. The museum has about 170 articles of great archaeological importance. Jain nasiya has beautiful irrigation and water flow system and a small garden with children’s playground. The Jain temple has an oblong open courtyard surrounded by high walls and has beautifully carved pillared porticos at the entrance.

Mughal gate is a historical monument and is supposed to be a small replica of the Taj Mahal. There are some beautiful frescoes on the walls and the building is in good condition.

32. Sojat City

Sojat city is world famous for its mehandi or henna powder. Sojat city is India’s largest producer of mehandi and more than 70% of the production is exported all over the world. The mehandi plantations are really worth a visit, as you will not find it anywhere. The leaves of this plant are squashed and the paste is used to decorate the palms. Many tourists that happen to come here on their way to Udaipur of Mount Abu take a break here and apply mehandi to their palms and feet. The beautiful decorations of mehandi are unique and beautiful experience.

What To See In Sojat City

Sojat city also known as Henna city is located near Pali in Rajasthan. Sojat city is famous all over the world for the best quality of henna. Henna is used in the cosmetic industry which is now a days using natural ingredients for the cosmetic products. The mehandi plantations are a major attraction in Sojat city. Mehandi or henna application is now becoming a fashion statement all over the world. Many tourists who happen to cross Sojat city on their route towards Udaipur or Mount Abu take a break here and get their palms and feet decorated by henna.

The fort of Sojat city has a big reservoir and various beautiful temples. The oldest of the temples is that of Chamunda Mata which is located on the top of a hillock. There are other temples like Sejal Mata temple, Chaturbhuj temple and many other temples. The most famous of all is the Dargah of Pir Mastan which is very popular and is visited by Muslims and Hindus alike.

Another prominent tourist places are the Ramdeoji temple near village Bairatiya and the fort of Desuri. Kurki which is the birth place of saint Meerabai who was a poet is another place worth visiting. She was a famous poetess and dedicated her life worshipping Lord Krishna and spreading his message all over.

33. Warangal

Known as the capital of the very famous Kakatiya Dynasty, Warangal is the city which holds immense beauty of nature. Not only abundant in relics of the past and antiques, the city also possesses numerous beautiful lakes and a rich wildlife. Entering into the city, you’ll get the aura which stand as a silent witness to ancient past’s glorious legacy. As India is a nation where religion and tradition have always held an important position, the constructions and structure of Warangal clearly states that this was also never an exception. The city has numerous tourist attractions and legends which generally are a cause of interest of people visiting the city.

Why Visit Warangal?

If you have plans to check out the city of Warangal, then here you’ll get numerous options to amuse yourself. The scenic turquoise lakes of the city, the rich wildlife, abundant flora and fauna along with magnificent architectures of the past make the city a place to be visited at least ones in a lifetime. Holding a prime location in the country, the city is at a distance of just 175 Kms from Hyderabad. It is a place which can be called a paradise for temple lovers.

Places of Interest in Warangal

As you are aware by now, the city is speckled with numerous tourist destinations. Among some of the very famous tourist destinations, we can enumerate places like Warangal Fort, Bhadra Kali Temple, Someshwara Temple, Jain Mandir, Pakhal Lake, Kolanupaka Museum, Thousand Pillar Temple, etc. So, if you have plans to check out Warangal then do not skip out the given tourist destinations of the city.

Beat Time to Visit Warangal

If you want to check out the best months of Warangal and enjoy here then the months which will suit you the most are September to February. In the given months, one can enjoy maximum in the city. This is the time of the year when city sees really pleasant weather and the flora and fauna is at its full swing.

Moreover, it is also very easy to reach Warangal as the city is well connected with all means of transport. The city is well connected to other places in India by airways, railways and roadways. So if you have a plan to visit Warangal, then get your tickets done well in advance and also try booking a hotel in the city which suits you in all aspects.

What To See In Warangal

The rich culture and the majestic monuments of Warangal dotted on the most scenic backdrops, make it one of the most interesting tourist destinations to visit. Also known as the former capital of Kakatiyas, Warangal is speckled with various monuments which are somewhat ruined paint a distinct picture of what the times then were like. The legacy and grandeur of the times is evident through various such evidences which are found in the city. Some of such tourist sites include the names which are mentioned below.

Warangal Fort is one of the very popular tourist attractions of Warangal: An attraction of the city which is immensely popular among tourists is Warangal Fort. This is a colossal architectural wonder which was erected in the era. The Warangal Fort lies towards the south eastern region of the city and although not in a very good condition, the ruins of its architecture are enough to exhibit the dexterity of the people of that era.

Bhadra Kali Temple is one of the best tourist destinations of Warangal: When counting the best tourist destinations of Warangal, Bhadra Kali Temple is one which generally tops the list of tourists. This beautiful temple occupies one of very scenic locations on one of the hills of the city. It is one of the best examples of Chalukyan architectural style which was encouraged in the period of the Kakatiyas. The temple sees immense crowd during the times of Kali Pooja and Navarathri.

Someshwara Temple is one of the places of immense tourist interest in Warangal: When checking out temples and tourist places in Warangal, do not skip out the very beautiful Someshwara temple which is located in the city. This Colossal temple was built in honor of Lord Shiva and holds its origin in the Kakatiyas era. Sculptural dexterity and dedication is clearly shown in the picturesque figurines of the temple.

Jain Mandir is a famous tourist spot of Warangal: When pointing the tourist spots of Warangal, a place which is immensely popular in Warangal is Jain Mandir. A trip to the Jain Mandir must be planned out in trip to Warangal as this is a monument which is known especially for its marvelous architecture and intricate carvings. The beautifully crafted 5 ft idol of lord Shiva which is known be made of jade is immensely striking.

If you are wondering about which place to check out for a perfect religious tour then probably, Warangal is the best option. Moreover, it is not only the place meant for temple lovers but also allures lovers of history and nature. So, plan a trip to Warangal and enjoy one of the splendid tours of your life.

34. Chikmagalur

The extremely picturesque city of Chikmagalur enjoys a prime location in Karnataka’s south western region which is at a distance of about 200 Kms from the state capital, Bangalore. This very beautiful city lies on the Baba Budan Hills with an altitude of about 1037 M above the level of sea. This place is an absolute paradise for the lovers of solitude. Here you can find the most fascinating scenes which are like an artist’s creation composing of the lofty hills, religious places which hold immense faith of people, vivacious waterfalls, etc. It is one of the places which hold one of the top positions in the tourist spots of Karnataka.

Legend Behind the City of Chikmagalur

Actually, the literal meaning of Chikmagalur is the young daughter’s town. It was the town given as the dowry to the youngest daughter of Rukmangada. This is reason because of which the city gained this peculiar name.

Specialty of Chikmagalur

If you are in Chikmagalur then remember to get interfaced with the specialty that the town bears. The tea and coffee, not only in terms of quality but also in terms of quantity is famous all over the nation. Not only Indian tourists, but also people visiting from other nations must buy for themselves some packets of tea and coffee the best time to see the place is somewhere between the months of October to March. This is the season which will welcome you with the most pleasant weather. Although, you’ll never find any time of the year which is pinching, still to enjoy the best time of the city plan your trip in the advised months.

Tourist Attractions of the City

The city of Chikmagalur is speckled with awesome tourist spots where people can enjoy some of the moments worth cherishing for lifetime. Some of the major tourist attractions of the city include places like Kemmanagundi, sringeri mutt ,Kudremukh, Sringeri, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, etc. The awesome tourist attractions of the city make one of the popular cities of Karnataka in terms of tourism.

Reaching Chikmagalur is not at a task involving much hassle as the city is well linked with all means of transportation. In simpler terms, the city is connected via all means of transport including air, road and rail transport. As you reach the city, you’ll never find it difficult to accommodate yourself as the city is abundant in hotels and guest houses. So plan a trip to the city and bag some of the liveliest moments of your life.

What To See In Chikmagalur

The beautiful city of Chikmagalur is perched at a height of around 1037 meters above the level of sea and is beautifully embellished with picturesque scenes. This is the city which is the heaven for those who love solitude. Like an artist’s imagination of the artist, the city is beautifully adorned with lush green forests, echoing valleys, gurgling water streams, picturesque peaks and impressive temples. In short this is a city which is mushrooming with interesting destinations which tourists absolutely love to check out. Here are some of the places one must check out in Chikmagalur to make a trip to the place an ideal one.

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the popular tourist destinations of Chikmagalur: If you actually want to check out the most interesting tourist spot of Chikmagalur then Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is an ideal place. This is one of the places which have been much appreciated not only by lovers of nature but also by those who love adventures. Here you’ll come across some of the most interesting species of animals which include Chital, Samberg, Gaur and other interesting species as well. It falls in the north western region of the city.

Kemmanagundi is an interesting tourist spot of Chikmagalur: If you actually want to make your trip to Chikmagalur an ideal one then one of the destinations you must visit in Chikmagalur is Kemmanagundi. This is a very beautiful picturesque hill station at a distance of about 55 Kms from Northern Chikmagalur. This is the place where you’ll beautiful rock cut temples and some of liveliest waterfalls.

The coffee plantations are the very famous tourist attractions of Chikmagalur: If you actually want to have a look at the specialty of the town of Chikmagalur then the coffee plantations of the city is a place you must not skip out. Chikmagalur is regarded as the hub of coffee plantation of the nation. Here you can have a look at the various stages through which coffee passes before reaching you. Plucking of the beans, drying, shelling, winnowing, grading and finally packing all can be seen if you plan your trip to Chikmagalur in the month of April.

Apart from the given destinations, there are some interesting places as well which must be checked out in a trip to Chikmagalur. Other places of tourist interest in Chikmagalur include places like Kudremukh, Baba Budan Range, Kondadarama Temple, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Sringeri, Hebbe Falls, Kudremukh National Park, kalahasti waterfalls etc. So, in all, if you are planning a trip to Chikmagalur be prepared for one of the liveliest vacations of your life.

35. Hampi

Very famous for ruins and remains of the time of erstwhile medieval Vijaynagar’s Hindu Kingdom, Hampi has been declared as a site known for its World Heritage. The fascinating temples and mesmeric monuments of Hampi, the monolithic sculptures and the excellent craftsmanship exhibited here are more than just a factor to obtain an ever increasing tourist graph. The splendor of the Vijaynagar’s empire is clearly noticeable because of the magnificent architectural pattern that is shown in the monuments here. The historic ambience of the city is enhanced by the rugged landscapes that the land possesses.

Geographical position enjoyed by Hampi

Acquiring a prime position somewhere in the mid of Karnataka, Hampi is one of the very popular destination of Southern India. The city is at a distance of just 353 Kms from Bangalore. The city is well adorned with the presence of Tungabhadra River in it. As the city is at a height of 467 meters above the level of sea, Hampi generally holds a tropical climate. So, one can say that the best time to visit Hampi is between October to March.

Great tourist attractions of Hampi

Pointless to mention, Hampi is a city which is dappled with tourist attractions. Some of the great tourist attractions of Hampi include eminent names like Achutarava Temple, Vithala Temple, Queens Bath, Ugra Narasimha, Monolithic Ganesha, Hazara Rama Temple, Virupaksha Temple, Royal enclosure, Riverside trek Path, Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stables etc. So, if you’re interested in visiting Hampi, remember to check out the given places of tourist interest in the city.

Tourist activities to indulge in a trip to Hampi

The major activity in which tourists indulge in Hampi is undoubtedly exploring and admiring the ruins and remains of the past. Other than getting lost into the flashback of the past, one can also visit the museum which is situated at the foot of Matangi Hills. Another thing one can enjoy in Hampi is a ride in Famous Coracles. The coracles give the appearance of a huge coconut shell, in which people love to ride. Mountaineering adventures of Matangi Hills is also not an activity worth missing out in Hampi.

In a nutshell, if you lover of history and love some adventure as well in your vacation trip, then one of the places which is best suggested to you is Hampi. Plan a trip to the city and experience the most unique feel anyone can ever have in a vacation. But hey, in excitement, do not forget to carry a camcorder and a digi cam, as this is the place which gives innumerable places where some of the most memorable moments of life can be captured.

What To See In Hampi

When exploring the city of Hampi, one will come to notice that the tourist destinations of the city fall in its rocky outcrop and boulder laden countryside. The landscapes of the city are also hemmed with lush green surroundings making the place even more attractive to look at. But when, one scans the city well, reminisce of Mughal past seen by the city makes a flash back. The city is dappled with the remains of the mighty Mughal Empire, adorning the city with various historical awe inspiring monuments. Given under are some of the tourist attractions which make the city immensely popular as a tourist place in India.

Virupaksha Temple comes under important tourist spots of Hampi: When enumerating the famous tourist places of Hampi, one of the places worth noting is the Virupaksha temple. This is a temple which stands tall amid the Hampi ruins. In spite of being pillaged by invades, no blemishes were seen on the existence of this temple. From ages worshippers come to this temple and worship Lord Shiva’s incarnation, ‘Virupakeshwara or Pampapathi’.

King’s Balance is a place of immense tourist interest in Hampi: When counting the places of interest in Hampi, one of the places worth admiring is the King’s Balance. This is an amazingly unique tourist spot of Hampi consisting of two lofty pillars of granite. The height of these pillars is about 15 feet which supports a stone beam of around 12 feet. The place is also popular by the name of Tula Bhara/ Tula Purushadana.

Lotus Mahal is a significant tourist attraction of Hampi: Among the significant tourist attractions of Hampi, one is the Lotus Mahal. This is a beautifully built Mahal exhibiting the synthesis of Hindu and Muslim architectures styles. The beautifully architected temple strongly resembles the geometrically blossomed lotus.

Vithala Temple is one of the best tourist destinations of Hampi: If you actually want to get the essence of city of Hampi, then do not forget to visit the Vithala Temple. Enjoying the picturesque location of the beautiful river Tungabhadra, Vithala Temple is another structure which has been a speechless witness to the days Mughal dynasty. The distinguishing features of the temple are the 56 musical pillars located here. The magnificently built stone chariot is also an awe inspiring piece of architecture here. Apart from the given places, some other places one must check out in Hampi are Pushkarini Tank, Noblemen’s Palaces, Elephant Stables, etc. In a nutshell, one can call Hampi an absolute paradise for the lovers of history as well as for the people who love magnificent architectures. So, plan a trip to Hampi and get a flashback of those good olden days of India’s historical past.

36. Tanjore

Tanjore is the shortcut for Thanjavur. The name is derived from Tanjan asura who devastated the neighborhood. Sri Ananandavalli Amman and Vishnu killed him. He requested that the city be named after him and his last request was granted.

Cholas, Cheras and Pandya kings ruled Tanjore. It flourished during the rule of Rajaraja Cholan and started declining after that. The Cholas built a very great temple of Sri Bragatheeswara in Tanjore. The temple is in the fort called as Sivaganga fort. This temple is also well known as the big temple in Tanjore. The Kalasha of the temple was put there by the Raja himself and the Vimana weighed nearly 235 lbs in gold. The main shrine here is of Sri Brihadisvsra, which in Sanskrit means Peruvudaiyar. There are five divisions in the temple: the sanctorum, Aradhana Mandapam, Maha Mandapam, Narthana Mandapam and Vaadya Mandapam. There are three portals in the main shrine guarded by Dwarpals. These guardians of the gate are huge and are of exquisite workmanship. Some of the guardians are very huge and have dimensions of 18 feet by 8 feet. There are many such guardians in the temple. These are of great artistic merit and are made of monolith.

There is also a big fort that encircles the city and there is a palace built by Vijayaraghava. There are many tourist places in Tanjore and around Tanjore. The Tanjore palace is a very vast building of masonry built partly by the Nayaks in 15th century. The Maratha rulers built the other part. The art gallery in the palace is worth a visit. There are many granite and bronze statues of the Chola period in the gallery. There is a library in the palace called as the Saraswati Mahal library. There are some very old manuscripts in the library and there are over 30, 000 palm leaves and paper manuscripts in there. There are books in Indian and European languages in this library. There is a hall of music in the palace that is acoustically perfect. There is another museum in the palace worth a visit. This museum is called as the Royal museum of Tanjore. This museum has a mixed collection of manuscripts, weapons, dresses, utensils, musical instruments and other very interesting things. All these things once belonged to the royal families of Tanjore.

Schwarta Church is a legacy of Tanjore’s colonial past. This church belongs to the 18th century and stands near Shivganga tank.

Nearest tourist places to Tanjore are many. Darasuram has a temple of Lord Shiva situated just 34 kms from Tanjore. Kumbakonam has the famous Mahamaham festival and boasts of five temples with erotic sculptures. Mannargudi has a 12th century temple of Lord Krishna. Mayiladuthurai situated on the banks of the River Cauveri has a beautiful Mayurnatha Swami temple. Poompuhar was the capital and port city of the Cholas. The River Cauveri drains in Bay of Bengal here. This place is very famous for the Epic Silappathikaram.

Other tourist places in Tanjore include the Shivganga garden with its beautiful plants, flowers and birds. Rajarajan Manimandapam and the Tamil university, Punnai Nallur Mariamman Kovil are popular tourist spots around Tanjore.

What To See In Tanjore

Tanjore or Thanjavur is situated near Trichy and Coromandel Coast. This ancient place of the Chola rulers is named after the Demon Tanjan Asura. It was the capital of the Cholas for many centuries and hence is the best among the Cholomandalam. This place has the most fertile lands and is known as the granary of the south. Since this place is so rich it gets reflected in the art and architecture. Tanjore is famous all over the world as a royal city and its classic heritage. There are number of temples from the Chola period. The most popular is the Brihadeswara temple that is very mighty and magnificent.

Brihadeswara temple is one of the most celebrated Hindu temples in the world. This thousands years temple is a World heritage site of UNESCO. This temple is a brilliant example of the Dravidian style of architecture. The Vimana of the temple is about 70 meters high and is the tallest in the whole world. It weighs 82 tons and is carved of a single stone. Later many additions were made to the temples that are worth looking at.

Tanjore is the cultural capital of South India and is a center of classical arts and music. It is a treat to watch the performances of the classical musicians, percussionist and the Bharatnatyam dancers. Kumbakonam is a must visit for every tourist. The temple sculptures have erotic overtones and are very beautiful. This is the venue of the Mahamaham festival celebrated once in every 12 years.

Excursions around Tanjore are a very good option for tourists. The city of Gangaikondacholapuram has a number of temples from Chola era. Airavateeswar temple is exquisite and belongs to the 12th century. It is one of the best specimens of Chola temples in the country and is a recognized site by UNESCO. Other tourist places in Tanjore include the Shivganga garden with its beautiful plants, flowers and birds. Rajarajan Manimandapam and the Tamil university, Punnai Nallur Mariamman Kovil are popular tourist spots around Tanjore.

Apart from all this, you should see the Tanjore paintings. These paintings attract tourists from all over the world. Tanjore style of paintings is unique as they are developed over multiple layers of colors. These paintings have beautiful themes and are mostly centered on Hindu mythology and deities.

Shopping in Tanjore

Tanjore is shopper’s paradise for craft lovers. The place is very famous for Tanjore paintings that are very subtle and magnificent. You can buy exquisite handlooms and handicrafts in Tanjore markets. Weaving, painting, jewelry and woodwork are very popular among the tourists. Tanjore paintings are a must buy and these are richly adorned with Hindu deities. One more thing is very popular among the tourists visiting Tanjore. The Thailaiyatti Bammai doll that nodes head and the Thanjavur plates.

Silk weaving is a traditional craft of the people in Tanjore. Kanchipuram and Tanjore are the most renowned centers in Tamil Nadu. Tanjore specializes in silk saris with broad borders and unique motifs laden with zari.

37. Puttaparthi

Throughout the globe, India is popular as the land of spirituality, occult as well as has been observed to be the birthplace of numerous prophets and seers. The high level of religious consciousness that people have here make India one of the well accepted religious destinations of the world. Among the some of religious places in India a name which stands out is Puttaparthi. This is one of the very pious places of India which is known as the birthplace of Sri Satya Sai Baba. This is a destination where tourists from allover the world flock and fell the divine presence of the almighty.

Geographical positioning of the Puttaparthi

If you are a planning to visit Puttaparthi, you’ll have to check out the southern flank of India. Nestling in the southwestern part of the nation i.e. in Andhra Pradesh lays the devout city of Puttaparthi. The divine destination of Puttaparthi is bordered by rocky and arid mountains of Karnataka. This destination is known to be the seat of Prasanthi Nilayam the very popular ashram of Satya Sai Baba. From the months of July to March, Satya Sai Baba is resides here amid his devotees.

Historical past of Puttaparthi

The date was November 23rd 1926 when Satyanarayana Raju was born in Puttaparthi. This is a merely a small village in the presidency of Madras. The prodigious talents exhibited by him and his evident purity as well as his compassion made him stand out of the regular crowd at a very early age. At the delicate age of 14, he announced that was actually the reincarnation of Sai Baba of Shirdi. From that time, the fame of the city spread al over and in the year 1950, a grand ashram of Satya Sai Baba was in inaugurated.

Some famous tourist attractions of Puttaparthi

Apart from the very famous ashram of Puttaparthi where the devotees are facilitated with various shops, library, museum and assembly hall there are other attractions in Puttaparthi as well. The other tourist destinations of Puttaparthi include places like The Village Mosque, Sathyabhama Temple, Birth place of Bhagwaan Sai, Sri Raju Kalyan Mandapam, Chitravati River, Samadhi, Gokulam, Satya Sai Nagar, Sri Satya Sai Hill View Stadium, chaitanya jyoti museum etc. In all, there are numerous places of interest which one can check out in Puttaparthi.

So, if you are planning a trip to Puttaparthi, then make sure you visit maximum number of tourist attractions of the city. The city is beautifully adorned with scenic beauty and has a special air of its own which give the tourists as well as the local crowd a feeling of divinity.

What To See In Puttaparthi

The ever divine city of Puttaparthi is blessed with the very graceful presence of Sri Satya Sai Baba. If you are planning a trip to this city then, be ready to experience the splendid charisma of the godly city. Although, Puttaparthi has nothing special like the metropolitan cities to boast about, still here one can find a graph of tourist which is ever increasing. The colossal ashram and other tourist spots of the city are enough to grab the attention of tourists from world over. Have a look at some of the main tourist attractions of the city.

Sathya Sai Baba Ashram is the major tourist attraction of Puttaparthi: If you want to give your trip a kick start by checking out the most phenomenal tourist destination of Puttaparthi, then you should surely plan a trip to the colossal Satya Sai Baba Ashram here. This is the place where Satya Sai Baba stays between the months of July to March. It was the year 1926 when the mankind was blessed with the divine soul to rely upon and the year 1950 was the one in which this ashram came into existence.

Birth place of Sri Satya Sai Baba is another important tourist spot of Puttaparthi: A destination in Puttaparthi which is not worth missing out is the birth place of Sri Satya Sai Baba. At the given date, the original place where the birth of Baba took place has been transformed into the temple of Lord Shiva. This was the shire which was initiated and accomplished by Baba himself in the year 1979. As the actual birthplace of the seer is not known, people believe that it must be somewhere close to the river.

Chitravati River is a place of immense tourist interest in Puttaparthi: If you are wondering about if there is a place of immense scenic beauty in Puttaparthi then all that you need is a trip to Chitravati River. The pious river is given the name of the pious new Ganges, as Sri Satya Sai Baba used to bathe here. At present, this river serves as the main source of sand used for constructions in the entire city. Moreover, till date, the clothes of Baba are washed in this river only.

Apart from the given tourist attractions of Puttaparthi, there are other places in Puttaparthi as well which a tourist visiting the city must check out. Other places of tourist interest in Puttaparthi include Sathyabhama Temple, Sri Raju Kalyan Mandapam, The Village Mosque, Kalpa Vriksha, Samadhi, Gokulam. Sathya Sai Nagar, Sai Gita-The Elephant, Anjaneya Swamy Temple, etc. So, in a nutshell, the city is speckled with various places of tourist interest which people can check out in Puttaparthi. Plan a trip to Puttaparthi and get the unforgettable divine feel in the beautiful city.

38. Mysore

The mesmeric city of Mysore enjoys a prime location in the state of Karnataka which is well known across the world for a high tourist graph. The beautiful city of Mysore a popular legend attached to its name which narrates an interesting story about Mahishasura- the Demon. The story tells about the chaos and havoc this demon created in the city and how he made the life of the people miserable. Later one, it was Goddess Chamunda who killed him and made the life of the people living here worthwhile. In short the presence of Mahishasura in the region gave the city the name of Mysore. The city is known for its beautiful culture and traditions. Let us have a look at what all does the city hold in store for people who come to visit the city.

The enchanting festival of Dussehra in Mysore

The city of Mysore is popular for its beautiful festivals and fairs. In the festive season, the city is adorned with beautiful traditional arty pieces and lights. The most famous festival of Mysore is Dussehra. A sight of this festival is worth remembering for a lifetime. People here believe that the presiding deity of Mysore holds the powers to conquer wicked thoughts and deeds and this is the basic reason for the celebration of this grand festival. Magnificent decor, processions, torchlight parade, fairs, exhibitions, music and dance are the important elements of the festival. The festival falls somewhere between the months of October and November. To get the maximum of the city, one must visit Mysore at the time of this grand festival.

Places of tourist interest in Mysore

The place is also adorned with some of the places of great tourist interest. Without visiting these places, the trip to Mysore is incomplete. Among some of the popular tourist attractions of Mysore one can easily enumerate places like The Mysore Palace, St. Philomena’s Church, Shri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery, The Mysore Zoo, The Chamundeshwari Temple, etc. Thus one can say that the place is speckled with numerous interesting tourist destinations which sightseers can check out.

In a nutshell, Mysore is a place which has something or the other to keep all its tourists busy. Be its youngsters or be it aged people; Mysore has attractions for every age group and class of tourists. The best part of Mysore is that one will never find a pinching weather in any month of the year. So if you are planning a trip to the city just select any random month in which you have vacations and check out the city of Mysore. Am sure, a trip to the city will leave you with handful of memories to cherish forever.

What To See In Mysore

Karnataka is one of the most popular Indian states when it comes to tourist destinations and here we’ll interface you with a very interesting city of the state, Mysore. The city of Mysore is one of the top ranking tourist destinations of Karnataka which is speckled with numerous interesting tourist destinations. The city is also known for its rich culture and heritage. Basically one will find that the city is rich not only in architectural but natural beauty as well. Here is a list of some of the destinations which one must check out in a trip to the city.

Mysore Palace is an important tourist destination of Mysore: When it comes to a tourist destination which acts as the landmark of the city, then a name worth mentioning is Mysore Palace. This is beautiful witness of the good old times and the royal splendor enjoyed by the city. The palace was the official residence of the Mysore’s royal family.

A place of great tourist interest in Mysore is Brindavan Gardens: A place one must visit in a trip to Mysore is the Brindavan Gardens. This is a spot of great tourist importance in Mysore. Te symmetric patterns and designs have made the gardens world famous. Basically it is a terrace garden which is beautifully laid. The garden enjoys a mesmeric location close to the Krishna Raja Sagara Dam.

The Chamundi Hills are a great tourist attraction of Mysore: One of the tourist attractions which people love to visit in Mysore is the Chamundi hills. The Chamundi hill abodes the beautifully build Chamundeshwari Temple and Nandi. One can enjoy some of the most panoramic views from the hill top. One can take a breathtaking view of the city at the time of dusk. If you are in the city at the time of Dussehra then do not forget to see a view of the Mysore palace from the hill. It actually glitters like gold.

In a nutshell, the beautiful city of Mysore is well adorned with beautiful tourist attractions to keep the visitors of the city engaged. Some other destinations which one can check out in a trip to Mysore include the mysore palace, Mysore Zoo, bandipur national park, St. Philomena’s Church, Datta Peetham, Jaganmohan Art Gallery, Karanji Lake, Kukkarahali Lake, Krishna Raja Sagara, Jayalakshmi Vilas, Lalitha Mahal, Namma Mysore, sri chamarajendra zoological garden etc. So, if you are planning a trip to the city then try to make it long as the city is mushrooming with interesting places of tourist interest and missing out any of them will be a loss on your part. So when are to plans to check out the very interesting city of Mysore?

39. Wardha

Wardha in Maharashtra is a popular tourist place. The town derived its name from the river Wardha. The place was founded in the year 1866 and is now a very popular tourist place. Tourists come to Wardha to visit the Sevagram Ashram founded by Mahatma Gandhi.

Kelzer has a beautiful temple of Lord Ganesh popularly called as Varad Vinayak. It is one of the temples from the Ashtavinayak in the Vidarbha region. The sculpture of the Lord belongs to the Arya period.

Vishwa Shanti Stupas are found in Wardha. Fuji Guruji came to Wardha from Japan and met Mahatma Gandhi in 1935. He wished to set up a Stupa where the Buddhists can offer prayers. Gandhiji agreed to this proposal and eight Shanti Stupas were built at different places in India. One of them is at Wardha. The stupas in Wardha describe the history and life of Lord Gautam Buddha.

Gitai Mandir is the place where Acharya Vinobha Bhaves Gitai became perpetual. Achrya ji translated the Bhagwat Gita into Gitai. For this reason, a number of polished stones were brought from different places and arranged vertically. These stones were arranged to form a cow and 18 shlokas of the Gita are engraved on it. This temple is unusual as it has no ceilings and no walls. There is a permanent exhibition arranged in Shanti Kuti in the memory of Mahatma Gandhi and Jamnalal Bajaj.

Gandhi Gyan Mandir is a public library opposite to Bajajwadi. The most interesting feature of this library is that there are books written by Mahatma Gandhi and Books on Mahatma Gandhi. In addition, there is a valuables collection of reference books of literature, Economics, Politics, social science and other subjects. Dr Rajendra Prasad laid the foundation stone of Gyan Mandir in Wardha in 1950. Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru inaugurated the library.

Sewagram or Bapu ki Kuti is the most popular tourist spot in Wardha. Tourist from all over the world come here as Gandhiji started his freedom movement from here. Mahatmaji came here in the year 1934 and was requested by Jamnalal Bajaj to select Segaon for his Kuti or Ashram. Accordingly, a Kuti was established here. The Ashram premises have Adi Niwas, Ba Kuti, Akhari Niwas, Kishor Kuti, Mahadeo Kuti and other historical places. Many things used by Mahatma Gandhi are on display here. A permanent exhibition of Gandhijis rare photos is also a hit among tourists visiting the Ashram.

Acharya Vinoba Bhave established Pawnar Ashram in the year 1934. It is on the banks of River Dham in Pawnar which is just 5 miles from Wardha. He stayed in Gandhijis Ashram for some time and then followed an inner call and started the Bhoodan and Gramdan movements. He also worked for the Bharat Chodo movement from this Ashram in Pawnar.

Other tourist places in Wardha are the Museum of Wardha or Magan Sangrahalaya, Rashtra Bhasha Prachar Samiti, Laxmi Narayan temple and Bajajwadi.

Other picnic spots near Wardha are Bor Dam with its beautiful gardens, Dhamma Kendra and its beautiful stupas, the forests of Garpit, Tomb of Sheikh Farid Baba in Girad, Forests of Dhaga and Koteshwar which has a beautiful ancient Hemadpanthi temple of Lord Shiva.

What To See In Wardha

Wardha is a town in Maharashtra state which is associated with Mahatma Gandhi. The place derives its name from the Wardha River that flows through it. The town was founded in the year 1866 and is a very popular historic tourist destination in Maharashtra. The town is very famous for Gandhiji’s Sevagram Ashram which is a National Institute. Sewagram or Bapu ki Kuti is the most popular tourist spot in Wardha. National and international tourists come here to see the Ashram as it is associated with the Father of the Nation.

Mahatma Gandhi established the Ashram in the year 1933. It was named as Sevagram which literally means, “Village of Service”. It was once a headquarters of the Indian National Movement led by the Mahatma. Gandhiji lived in this ashram for over 14 years.

The Ashram premises have Adi Niwas, Ba Kuti, Akhari Niwas, Kishor Kuti, Mahadeo Kuti and other historical places. Many things used by Mahatma Gandhi are on display here. You can find Gandhijis spinning wheels, spectacles, and other personal things of the Mahatma on display here. There is a very interesting exhibition of rare photos depicting Gandhijis life. The environment in the ashram is peaceful and quiet. Acharya Vinoba Bhave established Pawnar Ashram in the year 1934. It is on the banks of River Dham in Pawnar which is just 5 miles from Wardha.

Kelzer has a beautiful temple of Lord Ganesh popularly called as Varad Vinayak. It is one of the temples from the Ashtavinayak in the Vidarbha region. The sculpture of the Lord belongs to the Arya period.

Fuji Guruji came to Wardha from Japan and met Mahatma Gandhi in 1935. He wished to set up a Stupa where the Buddhist can offer prayers. Gandhiji agreed to this proposal and eight Shanti Stupas were built at different places in India. One of them is at Wardha. The stupas in Wardha describe the history and life of Lord Gautam Buddha.

Gandhi Gyan Mandir is a public library opposite to Bajajwadi. The most interesting feature of this library is that there are books written by Mahatma Gandhi and Books on Mahatma Gandhi. In addition, there is a valuables collection of reference books of literature, Economics, Politics, social science and other subjects. Dr Rajendra Prasad laid the foundation stone of Gyan Mandir in Wardha in 1950. Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru inaugurated the library.

Gitai Mandir is the place where Acharya Vinobha Bhaves Gitai became perpetual. Achrya ji translated the Bhagwat Gita into Gitai. For this reason, a number of polished stones were brought from different places and arranged vertically. These stones were arranged to form a cow and 18 shlokas of the Gita are engraved on it. This temple is unusual as it has no ceilings and no walls. There is a permanent exhibition arranged in Shanti Kuti in the memory of Mahatma Gandhi and Jamnalal Bajaj.

Other tourist places in Wardha are the Museum of Wardha or Magan Sangrahalaya, Rashtra Bhasha Prachar Samiti, Laxmi Narayan temple and Bajajwadi.

Other picnic spots near Wardha are Bor Dam with its beautiful gardens, Dhamma Kendra and its beautiful stupas, the forests of Garpit, Tomb of Sheikh Farid Baba in Girad, Forests of Dhaga and Koteshwar which has a beautiful ancient Hemadpanthi temple of Lord Shiva.

40. Trichy

Tiruchirapalli is situated in the Tiruchirapalli district in the state of Tamil Nadu. It is situated on the banks of River Kaveri. The city is called as Trichy or Tiruchi in short. It is well known for its educational institutions, industries and temples. The place is a popular tourist destination. The place is an upcoming commercial center in the state and it is very famous for artificial diamonds, Cigars, Handloom cloth, wooden and clay toys and glass bangles.

The most famous landmark of Trichy is the Rock Fort temple. It is a spectacular monument perched on a massive rocky outcrop. It rises abruptly from plain to tower over the old city of Trichy. The Nayaks of Madurai built the city of Trichy and the fort of Trichy. It was one of the main centers around which Carnatic wars were fought in the 18th century.

Some prime attractions of Trichi are the Viralimalai Sanctuary, Sittanavasal, Government museum, Kudumianmalai. The Viralimalai Sanctuary is very famous as a peacock sanctuary. There is also a famous temple, Murugan temple in the sanctuary premises. Sittanavasal is a site of an ancient Jain monastery. There are some fine frescos in the rock cave. Many paintings are typical of the 19th century and have beautiful pictures of animals, ducks, people gathering lotus flowers, dancers, etc. the inscriptions here date back to 9th and 10th century. There are also some pre-historic burial sites around Sittanavasal which are very important in Historic terms.

The government museum at Thirukokarnam has some very rare collections of things related to geology, Anthropology, Paintings, Zoology, Epigraphy and historical records.

Places of worship or the popular temples in Trichy are many. The Rock Fort Temple complex consists of three temples, the Manikka Vinayakar temple, Uchhi Pillayar Koyil and the Shivastalam temple. The Shivastalam temple is a rock cut temple and is a landmark of Trichy. Gangaikondan cholapuram has a magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. There are beautiful sculptures like the huge Nandi, Dancing Ganesha, Lion headed well and a stunning Rajendra being crowned by Lord Shiva and Parvati. Koduumbalur has some temples that belong to the 10th century. The architecture of these temples is unique and the sculptures are interesting masterpieces. The temple of Muchukundeswara is an excellent specimen of the early Chola period. Other important temples in Trichy are the Sri Ranganathaswami Temple at Srirangam is the largest temple of Lord Vishnu in India. It is also a navagraha sthals or temples representing the planets. Tiruvanaikkaval temple has excellent architectural designs. This beautiful Shiva temple is called after the elephant who worshipped Lord Shiva here. The lingam here is under the Jambu tree, partially submerged in water.

There are some churches in Trichy which you should visit. St.John’s church was built in 1812. The doors of this church open and convert it into an airy pavilion. The ancient church at Elakurichi is very popular and is known as Veeramamunivar. One more church at Avur is ancient.

There are many fairs and festivals of Trichy. The float festival celebrated at the Rock Fort Temple is a popular one. There are other festivals like the flower festival, car festival, sittanavasal and others to name a few.

What To See In Trichy

Trichy is one of the most important cities in the state of Tamil Nadu. Trichy is located on the banks of River Caveri and is an important tourist destination in Tamil Nadu. It has some very fine temples and historic monuments. The most important one is the Rock Fort temple in Trichy. Hence, this place is also called as Rock City.

The Rock fort temple was built in 1736 AD by the Vijaynagar emperor. This temple is the oldest sediment fossil rock. The age of this rock is more than 3800 million years. There are nearly 300 steps laid here and you have to climb these to reach the temple. The temple is an architectural marvel and has letters engraved on the walls. The Rock Fort Temple complex consists of three temples, the Manikka Vinayakar temple, Uchhi Pillayar Koyil and the Shivastalam temple. The Shivastalam temple is a rock cut temple and is a landmark of Trichy.

Erumbeeswarar is a magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. There are beautiful sculptures like the huge Nandi, Dancing Ganesh, Lion headed well and a stunning Rajendra being crowned by Lord Shiva and Parvati. Koduumbalur has some temples that belong to the 10th century. The architecture of these temples is unique and the sculptures are interesting masterpieces. The temple of Muchukundeswara is an excellent specimen of the early Chola period.

The Jambukeshwara temple in Thiruvanikaval is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple houses five concentric walls and seven gopurams. As the legend goes, an elephant once worshiped this deity under the holy Jambu tree. Hence, the name of this place is Jambukeshwara. The Shiva Lingam is submerged in water that flows from the subterranean spring. This temple represents the panchabhoota sthalam- representing the five basic elements.

Other important temples in Trichy are the Sri Ranganathaswami Temple, Kudumianmalai temple , Gangaikondan cholapuram temples, etc. Srirangam has the largest temple of Lord Vishnu in India.

The government museum at Thirukokarnam has some very rare collections of things related to geology, Anthropology, Paintings, Zoology, Epigraphy and historical records.

There are some churches in Trichy that you should visit. St.John’s church was built in 1812. The doors of this church open and convert it into an airy pavilion. The ancient church at Elakurichi is very popular and is known as Veeramamunivar. One more church at Avur is ancient.

Shopping in Trichy:

Trichy is popular for Cigars and Cheroots. You can buy excellent brass handicrafts, handloom textiles, pith models of temples, jwellery, carved brass and copper plates inlaid with silver, musical instruments and wood and clay toys.

What to eat in Trichy

Tamil Nadu is famous for its delicious cuisine. The most popular one is the Chettinad cuisine. These are hot and spicy preparations of fish, mutton and chicken. Vegetarian food consists of sumptuous spread with many vegetables curries, sambar, chutneys, rasam and curd. The most famous dish is the Pongal, which is made of mash rice and lentils. These are seasoned with cashew nuts, ghee, pepper, etc.

41. Madurai

The temple town of Madurai is an ancient heritage site of India. It is in the state of Tamil Nadu situated on the banks of River Vaigai in the Madurai district. Madurai is well known as a temple city, city of four junctions, cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, City of Jasmine, Athens of the East and sleepless city.

The city of Madurai is an important commercial center and is known to have trade relations with Rome and Greece since 550 BC. Megasthanes visited Madurai in 3rd century BC. Madurai is build around the Meenakshi temple or the Sundareswarar temple. The concentric rectangular streets around the temple are symbol of cosmos. The city is laid in the shape of a lotus flower. The streets in the city are having interesting names. They are named after the Tamil months.

Madurai is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. Large numbers of tourists visit this place, as it is a popular tourist place in the country. Meenakshi temple in Madurai is an architectural marvel. It was built by Pandya King Kulasekara and rebuilt by Thirumalai Nayak. The most striking feature of this temple is the Ayiramkaal Mandapam or the hall of thousand pillars. Each pillar has beautiful life size sculptures. The pillars appear to be in a straight line from any angle and there are some musical pillars in the outermost corridors. These pillars are carved out of stones and produce different musical note when tapped. This temple has patronized literature, art, music and dance since early days. Madurai Meenakshi temple attracts around six thousand visitors a day and the annual revenues of the temple are around sixty millions. It has scored the 26th place in the top nominees for the Seven Wonders of the World.

Thirumalai Nayak Palace has indo – Saracen style. It is a national monument at present. It is divided into Swargavilas and Rangavilas and was used as royal residence. There is a theater, shrines, apartments, armory, palanquin place, royal bandstand, quarters, pond and a garden. The ceilings have large paintings and the stuccowork on the domes and arches is remarkable. The gigantic pillars are an architectural marvel and the entire octagon arcade is constructed of bricks and mortar without any rafter or girder. The exhibition has a number of interesting things on display, like the furniture, utensils, etc used by the royal family.

Thirupparankundram temple is one of the six abodes of Lord Subramanya. The shrine is cut of solid rock.

Alagar Koli is a popular Vishnu temple in Madurai and dedicated to Lord Alagar. The temple has panoramic surroundings and the temple is situated on a beautiful hill. The temple of Alagar Koli has some very beautiful carvings.

Gandhi Museum is housed in an old Palace of Rani Mangammal. It has some rare pictures of freedom struggle and has a gallery of Gandhian movement. There are also some interesting things like the gallery of relics, khadi and village industries section and a section dedicated to South Indian Handicrafts.

Other important tourist places are the Mariamman Teppakulam, Kazimar Mosque, Goripalayam Dargah, St. Mary’s church, Athisayam Water Park, Eco park, Hava valley, etc.

What To See In Madurai

Madurai is a very popular tourist place in the state of Tamil Nadu. It is a very ancient place and is an important commercial centre of the south India. Madurai is build around the Meenakshi temple or the Sundareswarar temple. The concentric rectangular streets around the temple are symbol of cosmos. The city of Madurai is laid in the shape of a lotus flower. The streets in the city have interesting names like they are named after the Tamil months.

Meenakshi temple in Madurai is an architectural marvel. It was built by Pandya King Kulasekara and rebuilt by Thirumalai Nayak. Large numbers of tourists visit this place, as it is a popular tourist place in the country. The most striking feature of this temple is the Ayiramkaal Mandapam or the hall of thousand pillars. Each pillar has beautiful life size sculptures and the pillars appear to be in a straight line when seen from any angle. There are some musical pillars in the outermost corridors of the temple. These pillars are carved out of stones and produce different musical note when tapped.

Thirumalai Nayak Palace has indo – Saracen style. It is a national monument at present and has two parts Swargavilas and Rangavilas. It was used as royal residence and has a theater, shrines, apartments, armory, palanquin place, royal bandstand, quarters, pond and a garden. The ceilings have large paintings and the stuccowork on the domes and arches is remarkable. The gigantic pillars are an architectural marvel and the entire octagon arcade is constructed of bricks and mortar without any rafter or girder. The exhibition in the palace has a number of interesting things on display, like the furniture, utensils, etc used by the royal family.

Thirupparankundram temple is one of the six abodes of Lord Subramanya and the shrine is cut of solid rock. The temple has panoramic surroundings and the temple is situated on a beautiful hill. The temple of Alagar Koli has some very beautiful carvings. Alagar Koli Vishnu temple in Madurai is dedicated to Lord Alagar.

Gandhi Museum is housed in an old Palace of Rani Mangammal. It has some rare pictures of freedom struggle and has a gallery of Gandhian movement. There are also some interesting things like the gallery of relics, khadi and village industries section and a section dedicated to South Indian Handicrafts.

Other important tourist places are the Mariamman Teppakulam, Kazimar Mosque, Goripalayam Dargah, St. Mary’s church, Athisayam Water Park, Eco park, Hava valley, etc.

Shopping in Madurai

You can buy some good cotton and Batik saris and dresses, which is the specialty of Madurai. You can buy some handicraft items from the Government Poompuhar handicraft shops, cottage arts emporium and Madurai gallery.

You should try the famous Jil Jil Jigarthanda, Paruthi Pal and sugarcane juice in Madurai. Jigarthanda is a delicious drink made of algae, milk and sugar and Paruthi is prepared of cottonseeds, flour of raw rice, coconut and jaggery. The best try are the different dosas and pongal.

42. Chidambaram

Chidambaram is a lovely and charming town! It is located in the east-central parts of Tamil Nadu state of Southeastern India. However, it is situated in the Coleroon River Valley. The Madras Thanjavur road and the Rail system connects the Chidambaram. This town is also known as Thillai. Literally, it means the sky permeated by the atmosphere of Wisdom and intelligence. However, this pilgrimage center is one of the five Shaivite mukti sthalams. The other four-pilgrimage center includes the Kalahasti, Kanchipuram, Tiruvannamalai, and Tiruvanaikaval.

Mainly, the tourism of Chidambaram highlights the beautiful temples of the city. The temples are dedicated to Lord Nataraja. Lord Nataraja is one of the forms of Lord Shiva who is in the form of a cosmic Dancer here. Chidambaram temples are one of the few temples where Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu are enshrined under one roof. However, the Cholas built this ancient temple of Chidambaram. The temples are truly devoted to the art of Bharatnatya. They are one of the rare temples where the Lord Shiva is represented by an Idol and not by the Lingam. This Shiva temple is spread in an area of about 40 acres with a gopuram on each side. Moreover, temple is distinguished through the sabhas or the courts present there. The sacred land of Chidambaram has many temples and attractions. One of the unique features of Chidambaram city is a person of any religion, caste, or race can visit the Shrine and pray.

Here, one can find good number of tourist attraction situated in Chidambaram city. The major attraction of Chidambaram is the Nataraja Temple. Nataraja temple is located in the heart of the town. This temple covers near about 40 acres of land. The Nataraj temple is one of the ancient temples of Tamil Nadu state. The main highlights of this temple are the Sivakamianmman Temple, The Thousand Pillar Hall, and the Sivaganga Tank. The other temple located in Chidambaram includes Kali temple, and Viadanatheeswarar Temple. In Chidambaram, Thillaikaliamman Temple is located on the northern end of the town. The Kopperunjingan built Thillaikaliamman Temple. Kopperunjingan ruled the city in between the 1229 AD and 1278 AD. One of the other major attractions of Chidambaram is Annamalai University. Annamalai University is a residential university of Chidambaram. Raja Sir Annamalai Chettiar of Chidambaram founded the university.

The tourism of Chidambaram offers an array of excursions options. You can find many scenic and lovely destinations here. However, this excursion makes your trip happening and memorable. Pichavaram is a town, which is located at a distance of near about 16km at the east of Chidambaram. Pichavaram is the most beautify spot, which is abundant of varied tourism resources. Neyveli is located at near about 30kms from Chidambaram. However, Neyveli is one of the biggest industrial complexes in India. The Kalvaryan Hills are situated at near about 150 kms at the North West side of Chidambaram. Kallakaurichi Taluka is spread in an area of about 600sq. kms. This hill is situated at a height of about 315mts to 1190mts. However, Kalvaryan Hills are the ideal place for trekking. Moreover, every year a grand festival is organized here in the month of May. The other most exciting destination at Chidambaram is the Tarangambadi. The important festivals celebrated in Chidambaram are Markazhi Thiruvadhirai Day festival in the months of December January. The Adi Thirumanjanma festival is being celebrated in the month of June. In Chidambaram, Panguni Uthiram is also celebrated in the month of March.

One must visit the Chidambaram since it full fill all the desires of tourist which includes longs beaches, temples, tourist site, and many more.

What To See In Chidambaram

Chidambaram is a city that greets us with a stunning and beautiful temple, which are dedicated to Lord Natraja. Chidambaram is situated at a distance of near about 250 kms from Chennai. This city is located in the east central part of the Tamil Nadu state. However, it is an important pilgrimage spot for the Devotees of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva is also known as Lord Natraja while in the form of a cosmic Dancer. This temple is among the few temples of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu who are enshrined under one roof. Lord Shiva is represented here in the form of idol and not as a customary Lingam. Chidambaram is the northern frontier of the ancient Chola Kingdom. However, now Chidambaram is famous for its cluster of temples, some of them are of absolute gems in the architectural domain. The famous temple here is the Nataraj temple, which is being dedicated to Lord Shiva. Generally, the temples in the city are in the Dravidian Style.

Following are some of the major tourist’s attractions of Chidambaram town, which includes

Natraja temple

Natraja Temple located here is one of the ancient temples of Tamil Nadu State. This temple has a unique concept. The Natraja temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva who is in the forms of Cosmic Dancer. However, this temple is one of those rare temples that represent Lord Shiva in an idol form and not in a Lingam form. The Natraja Temple is said to be the place of dance competition between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. This temple is build up of Granite. During the rule of Chola King in the 10th Century, Temple was constructed. Moreover, Nataraj temple is a blend of piety, tradition, History, and art. Millions of devotes visit this temple not only from India but also from Sri Lanka. The architecture and art of temple is just stunning and remarkable. It is located in the center of the city and covers near about 40 acres of land.

Annamalai University

Raja Sir Annamalai Chettiar founded Annamalai University. This is one of the residential Universities located here on the eastern outskirts of the Chidambaram town. Annamalai University is a great center of Tamil learning and carnatic music. It offers educational facilities in the various disciplines including the medicines and engineering degrees etc.

Pichavaram

Pichavaram is situated around 16 kms of Chidambaram city. It is also known for its mangrove ecosystem. This place is considered among the few of the most beautiful scenic spot with an overflowing natural wealth and tourism resources. Moreover, it is famous for its backwaters, which are interconnected by the Kollidam system and Vellar. Pichavaram is one of the excellent destinations for water sports, rowing, and canoeing. So, pack your bags and get ready for a thrilling experience, which one would surely enjoy!

Kali temple

Kali temple is located on the northern extremity of Chidambaram town. This temple was built by Kopperunjingan while his rule in 1229 AD to 1278 AD.

Kalvarayan Hills

Kalvarayan Hills are situated at a distance of near about 150 kms North West of Chidambaram. However, Kalvarayan Hills are located on the western side of Kallakurichi. Kalvarayan Hills are spread over an area of near about 600 sq. The height of Hill ranges from 315 m to 1190m. This hill has a pleasant climate. It is one of the ideal spot for the Solitary moments. One can also visit the botanical Garden on the hills and other two waterfalls here. Kalvarayan Hills are one of the ideal places for trekking. Do enjoy the summer festival which held in the months of May on the hill.

Seerkazhi

Seerkazhi is located near about 20 kms from the Chidambaram town. Seerkazhi has three shrines, which includes Sree Brahmapureeswarar, Sattanathar, and Thonaiappar Shrines. These shrines are dedicated to Goddess Tirunilai Nayaki and God Child Ganansambandar.

Poompuhar

Poompuhar is a small city, which is situated at a distance of near about 40 kms from Chidambaram. During the reign of Chola Kings, place used to serve as a major port. However, now the place serves as home to an art gallery built by the Government of Tamil Nadu.

Moreover, Chidambaram is famous for its temple. Apart from temples, this city is very famous for its history, trekking, dancing, music, scenic beauty, and more attractions. One must visit the glorious city of Chidambaram, in order to add a Cherishing moments in life!

Conclusion

So be it any part of India, one finds immense in terms of historical beauty. Moreover with the support of government the maintenance of these places and the conveyance facilities to these places are never a problem. Just plunge into the historical past of India and feel experience the feel which drags you into the past.