Monday, June 22, 2009

Ranthambore National Park

Location : Ranthambore, Rajasthan
Area : 1,334 Sq Kms.
Specialty : Tigers.
Notified In : 1980
From Agra : 294 Km

Ranthambore National Park is located in the eastern part of Rajasthan at a comfortable distance of 130kms from Jaipur. Nestled between the Aravali and Vindhya mountain ranges, Ranthambore National Park used to be the hunting ground of Maharajas of Jaipur. The Park is an eye treat for the lovers of wild-life. Various natural rivers and man-made lakes flow through the National Park of Ranthambore.

Ranthambore National Park is one of the best tiger reserves in India. The friendly tigers of the sanctuary have brought it many a times on the silver screen. The tigers can be seen even during the day. Here you can also get a chance, to click the best tigers of India, in their relaxing moments. The park has dense deciduous forests which used to make the jungles of the primeval India. The rugged terrain of the Park provides ground to a large variety of wildlife species. Apart from Tigers, the Park has the largest and most diverse collection of wildlife species in India.

The Sanctuary has a great variety of flora and fauna including 300 trees, 50 aquatic plants, over 300 species of birds, 12 reptiles and 30 mammals. It makes home for both resident and migratory bird population. The Park is adjoined by two other sanctuaries, i.e. the Kaila Devi Sanctuary and the Mansingh Sanctuary. The best feature of Ranthambore National Park is that out of the whole park some areas are open for the tourists to travel around and explore the flora and fauna of the park. Hunting is prohibited in the grounds of this National Park.

Ranthambore National Park is also classified as a heritage site as it possesses some of the ruins of old monuments. The Lake Palaces, Cenotaphs and Old Citadels stand amidst the park that dates back to thousand years. The Jogi Mahal, Ranthambore Fort and the Padam Talao are exclusive attractions of the Park. Ranthambore Fort occupies the principal position, as the Park was named after this Fort. The fort is probably the oldest existing fort in Rajasthan, built in 10th century. Jogi Mahal, the forest rest house, has the second largest Banyan tree in India.

For wildlife photographers, the park is an awesome deal where they can capture the tigers and other fauna in their camera. To enjoy the tour into this sanctuary, you can hire a jeep that would take you in the deep forests without any fear. Ranthambore National Park is one of the best places in the country to see the imposing wild-life in natural ambience. If you are coming to Jaipur, don't miss this "must-see" place of Rajasthan, India.

Thursday, November 6, 2008

Holy Places In Agra


Tourist Attractions in Agra rich history, delightful tourist attractions and a vibrant presence - that is Agra for you. Though the city has come a long way since its days as a Mughal stronghold, it still retains its old worldly feel that simply delights every visitor. Moreover, the tourist attractions in Agra are such that one simply cannot have enough of them.

The very first thing that comes to the mind at the very mention of Agra is the ethereal Taj Mahal. Having inspired many singers, artists and poets till date, this exquisite creation is a heartfelt tribute to Mumtaz Mahal by her husband, Emperor Shah Jahan. Right from brochures to promotional videos, the Taj has featured in almost everything when it comes to promoting India to tourists around the world. Indeed, so overwhelming is the presence of the Taj that it is sometimes felt that the other tourist attractions in Agra pale in comparison.

However, Agra boasts of many other delightful attractions that can make your trip an affair to remember. The Red Fort in Agra is one such monument that is sure to amaze you no end. Built in 1565 by Emperor Akbar, this fort houses many interesting structures and exquisite palaces that dazzle the eyes. The Jama Masjid that is one of the largest mosques in India is another monument to visit. Other Agra tourist attractions include the tomb of Itimad Ud Daulah, Chini ka Rauza, Rambagh Gardens, Dayalbagh Gardens and Buland Darwaza. You can also travel a little distance to visit the Akbar's tomb at Sikandara and the Fatehpur Sikri complex.

Shopping in Agra is something not to be missed. Indeed, Agra is a shopper's paradise where you can buy everything from marble products to delicate rugs that can brighten up your living room. The next time you plan a visit to India, don't forget to travel to Agra and its tourist attractions. Just get in touch with us and allow us to take you on a joyride through time.

Jama Masjid Agra
Popularly also known as the Jami Masjid, the Jama Masjid in Agra is perhaps the largest mosque in India. It was constructed in 1571 A.D. during the reign of Emperor Akbar and is one of the most sacred sites in Fatehpur Sikri. The fact the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri was built around the Jama Masjid, which speaks volumes about its importance. The Jama Masjid has been built at a great height and has a large courtyard for prayers and is flanked by the Jammat Khana hall and the Zenana Rauza (the tomb of the women of the royal household) on both sides.

Moti Masjid
Moti Masjid derives its name from the pearl white color of the mosque. The Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan built the mosque between the year 1648 and 1654. This mosque was the proposed site of worship for the royal members of the court. The mosque stands erected near the 'Court for Common People' or the 'Diwan-E-Aam' in the Agra Fort. The prayer hall of the mosque lies on the western side.

Mangleshwar Temple
Agra, the city of Taj Mahal, one of the wonders of the world boasts of a number of Hindu temples. Agra is famous for its exquisite architecture, Imlay work and fine jewelry. The temples of Agra also carry the rich legacy of the city. Mangleshwar Temple, Agra is an eminent religious site of the city. Mangleshwar Temple, Agra is one of the prominent temples of Agra. This temple is located in the Gokul Pura area of Agra. Several pilgrims and tourists visit the Mangleshwar Temple in Agra every year. The festive days in Agra see the Mangleshwar Temple, Agra decked up in ornate embellishments. This temple stands as a testimony to the religious diversity of the city.

Bageshwarnath Temple
The Himalayas offer you excellent scenic beauty. Often most sought after retreat for sages, keen to seek the path of God, Himalaya became a home to many. Visiting Bagnath Temple, Bageshwar can be an enchanting experience amidst the mountain ranges and the splendid sceneries around. Known for pilgrimage, Uttaranchal is rightly named as the abode of Gods. Hindu temples can be found at almost every fold as you take to the mountains of Uttaranchal.

Guru Ka Taal
The Gurudwara is located in the region of Sikandra in the city of Agra. The Gurudwara is one of the chief attractions of Agra. Its premises remain open daily from dawn to dusk. There are no charges required for admission into the Guru Ka Taal. This tourist attraction is well connected by road from all over the city. The nearest railway station to Sikandra is Baluchpura Railway Station that is located at a distance of 5 kms from the place. The religious sanctuary, Guru ka Taal is a revered place for the Sikhs and a major tourist attraction of India.

Festival In Agra

The city of Agra is dominated by Muslim and Hindu population. The region as such celebrates the popular festivals as occurs in these faiths. The popular Muslim and Hindu festivals are celebrated in the region with the same enthusiasm as that of the rest India. Important Muslim festivals include Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha and Moharram. Hindu population celebrate Holi, Ramnavmi, Janmashtami, Ramlila, Dussehra, Diwali, . The festivals as elsewhere are accompanied with prayers, offerings, decorations and traditional food, singing and dancing.

Apart from popular festivals the residents also celebrate local fairs and festivals. The local festivals like Taj Mahotsav, Bateshwar Fair, Kailash Fair and Rambarat are celebrated with great fanfare and pomposity. Taj Mahotsav is celebrated in the month of February at Shilpgram which is about one kilometer from the Taj Mahal. The celebration is a good occasion to see and hear the traditional performers of the region. There is display of traditional crafts and arts during the occasion. Bateshwar Fair is celebrated in the month of October and November. Associated with the fair is livestock trade and various temple offerings. The Kailash Fair is held at Kailash, which is about 12 kms from Agra. The fair is celebrated in the honor of Lord Shiva. Rambarat is celebrated to pay homage to the wedding ceremony of Lord Rama. During this festival which lasts for 10 days plays based on the sacred book of Ramayana are enacted .

Taj Mahotsav
Taj Mahotsav Come February and it's springtime! The time of the year when nature dawns all it's colorful splendour and Agra bursts into colorful celebrations. For 10 days there is a sheer celebration of Uttar Pradesh's rich heritage of arts, crafts, culture, cuisine, dance and music. There are festivities all around and Agra truly puts on the colors of joy and gets transformed into one non stop carnival. Organised by Uttar Pradesh Tourism, and held as an annual event at Shilpgram, literally next door to the Taj Mahal, the Taj Mahotsav is indeed a fitting tribute to the legendary skills of matercraftsmen and exponents of art, music and cuisine. Not only this, it is also a gentle peep into the rich heritage and extraordinary legacies of this wonderful land.

Rambarat Festival
Rambarat or Wedding ceremony of Lord Rama is celebrated every year during Ramleela celebrations. Ramleela celebrations continue for 10 days where on each day in the evening, plays are enacted by local artists based on the holy book of Ramayana. Every year, a new locale of the town is chosen as Janakpuri- the place to which Sita belonged or the kingdom of Raja Janak ( King Janak)-father of Sita. The place is elaborately decorated to perform the royal wedding. The Rambarat (marriage procession) starts from Lala Channomalji Ki Baradari for Janakpuri, passing through different parts of the town. The barat is a large procession of tableaux or the 'jhankis', followed by the portraits of Ram-Lakshman mounted on elephants, which moves throughout the city during whole night.

Bateshwar Fair
Situated at a distance of 70 km. from Agra on the banks of river Yamuna, Bateshwar is an important spiritual and cultural centre.This is where one of the major streams of Braj lore begins. Today, the once glittering metropolis, has been reduced to a small village. The place is named after the presiding deity of the region, Bateshwar Mahadeo and has 108 temples dedicated to the gods and goddesses of the Hindu pantheon. During the months of Oct. & Nov. a large fair is organised from Shashthi of Kartik month to Panchami of Agrahayan month. Devotees congregate here in large numbers to worship Lord Shiva and take holy dips in river Yamuna. A livestock fair is also organised and owners and buyers conduct serious business combined with the gaiety of a market place.

Kailash Fair
Held at Kailash, 12 km. It is major fair celebrated in honour of Lord Shiva who is believed to have appeared here in the form of a stone lingam. Shiva (Sanskrit: Auspicious One), or Siva, is one of the main Deities of Hinduism, worshipped as the paramount lord by the Saivite sects of India. Shiva is one of the most complex gods of India, embodying seemingly contradictory qualities. He is the destroyer and the restorer, the great ascetic and the symbol of sensuality, the benevolent herdsman of souls and the wrathful avenger.

Wildlife Holiday In India

Wildlife Holiday In India

Duration :10 Days

Places Covered : Delhi/ Jaipur/ Ranthambore/ Bharatpur/ Agra/ Varanasi/ Khajuraho/ Bandhavgarh/ Kanha/ Bombay

Day 01 : Delhi
Arrive Delhi and transfer to the hotel. Rest of the day free to relax. Overnight at Delhi hotel.

Day 02 : Sightseeing of Delhi
Full day tour of Old and New Delhi visiting Chandni Chowk, Jama Masjid, Raj Ghat, Humayuns Tomb, Qutab Minar, India Gate. Drive past through the Houses of Parliament and Janpath. Overnight at Delhi.

Day 03 : Delhi - Jaipur
This morning drive to Jaipur. Arrive Jaipur late afternoon and check in. Later proceed to the city centre for phortographs. Watch the daily life of the Pink City , which truly is a photographers delight. Overnight at Hotel in Jaipur.

Day 04 : Jaipur
Morning proceed on an excursion to the Amber Fort. Ascend the fort on Elephant back. Afternoon visit Jantar Mantar, City Palace Museum, Royal Observatory. Jaipur is a great place to shop for carpets, semi precious stones, blue pottery, bed spreads. Overnight at Jaipur hotel .

Day 05 : Jaipur - Sawai Madhopur - Ranthambore
This morning drive from Jaipur to Sawai Madhopur, arrive check in and relax. Afternoon proceed for a jungle ride into the Ranthambore Wildlife reserve by jeep. Overnight at Sawai Madhopur.

Day 06 : Sawai Madhopur
Morning re visit the wildlife reserve. Overnight at Sawai Madhopur.


Day 07 : Sawai Madhopur - Bharatpur
Morning drive to Bharatpur. arrive check in and proceed for a visit of the bird sanctuary. There is a unique eco friendly way to visit this sanctuary - Cycle Rickshaw. Overnight at Hotel in Bharatpur.

Day 08 : Bharatpur - Agra
This morning proceed first to Fatehpur Sikri. The capital of Emperor Akbar for 14 years. Later drive to Agra. Arrive Agra, check in and relax. Afernonn visit the Red Fort and the famous Taj Mahal. ** THE TAJ MAHAL REMAINS CLOSED ON A MONDAY. Overnight at Hotel in Agra.

Day 09 : Agra - Varanasi
After a relaxed morning transfer from the hotel to the airport. Arrive at the airport and fly to Varanasi. Transfer to the hotel. Afternoon visit Sarnath. Overnight at Varanasi.

Day 10 : Varanasi
Early morning boat ride on the Ganges river. Later relax. Afternoon city tour of Varanasi. Overnight at Varanasi. .

Panna Wildlife Sanctuary

Panna Wildlife Sanctuary

Panna National Park is situated in at a distance of around 57 km from Khajuraho in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Besides being famous for its diamonds, Panna is also well known for some of the best wildlife species in India.

Fast facts:
Area: 543 sq km
Maximum Temperature: 31.4°C
Minimum Temperature: 13.5°C
Rainfall:
1422.95 mm
Languages: Hindi, English
Best Time to visit: January-May

Panna Wildlife Sanctuary:
Panna National Park situated in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh at a distance of around 57 km from Khajuraho. The region, which is famous for its diamonds, is also home to some of the best wildlife species in India and is one of the better Tiger Reserves in Panna National Park,Panna National Park Madhya Pradesh,Panna National Park Tour,Wildlife in Panna Park the country. Panna National Park is known worldwide for its wild cats, including tigers as well as deer and antelope.
Due to its closeness to one of the best-known Indian tourist attraction in India, Khajuraho, the park has the potential of becoming a major tourist attraction. Situated in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh at a distance of around 57 km from Khajuraho is the Panna National Park. The region, which is famous for its diamonds, is also home to some of the best wildlife species in India and is one of the better Tiger Reserves in the country. The park is known worldwide for its wild cats, including tigers as well as deer and antelope. Due to its closeness to one of the best-known Indian tourist attraction in India, Khajuraho, the park has the potential of becoming a major tourist attraction.

anna is situated in the Vindhyan hill range and spreads over Panna and Chhtarpur districts in the northern part of the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh (M.P.).One of the most significant ecological aspects of the Reserve is that the district Panna makes the northern most boundary of natural distribution of teak and the eastern limits of teak-kardhai (Anogeissus pendula) mixed forests.The Ken river, which flows through the Reserve form south to north, is the home for Long Snouted crocodile (gharial) and Marsh Crocodile (mugger) and other aquatic fauna. Ken is one of the sixteen perennial rivers of M.P. and is truly the life-line of the Reserve. It offers some of the most spectacular scenery while it meanders for about 55 km. through the Reserve.

Best Season for Panna National Park Tour:
The Panna National Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is in the cooler months; in summer the heat can take on furnace-like proportions.

Access (Panna National Park) :
Access to the park is from the village of Madla, 22 km from Khajuraho.

Wildlife Resorts or Hotels in Panna National Park:
Tree houses and tourist lodges are available in the vicinity of the Panna National Park to accommodate the visitors.

Ken River Lodge:
Ken River Lodge is 2 km from the Panna National Park. Swiss cottage tents with attached toilets and showers give you all the modern amenities along with the thrill of staying in a tent. There are 10 tents. Jungle visits are organized in the morning and evening by boats and jeeps. Pugdundee treks can also be organized for the keen birders.

Since Panna National park is located in close proximity to the world famous heritage site - Khajuraho, it is best to stay at a hotel here. There are many hotels/ chains, including 5 star properties operating in Khajuraho, we suggest the hotel Jass Trident :

Jass Trident Hotel / Khajuraho
A Government approved five-star hotel, Jass Oberoi is located 2 kms from the airport, 170 kms from Jhansi railway station and 110 kms from Satna railway station.

How To Reach:
Panna Wildlife National Park The airport at Khajuraho is the nearest to the Panna National Park, which is at a distance of 57 km. Daily flights connect Khajuraho with Delhi, Mumbai and Varanasi.

The nearest Railway Station is at Santa, which is 90 km away from the Panna National Park. It is connected with many cities and towns of Central and Western India.

Panna is well connected with many major cities and towns by a good network of roads. Madla at a distance of 24 km is major transport center.

There are options for accommodation at Panna national Park like tourist lodges, tourist houses etc. Better accommodation facilities are available at Madla. A day trip can be organized to Panna National Park while staying at Khajuraho where there are plenty of accommodation options suitable for all budget types.

Indian Tiger Trail

Indian Tiger Trail

Duration: 15 Nights / 16 Days

Destinations Covered: Delhi - Jaipur - Ranthambore - Bharatpur - Agra - Khajuraho - Bandhavgarh - Kanha - Nagpur

Day - 1 -- Delhi
Arrive in New Delhi before or after midnight. Spend overnight at the hotel in Delhi.

Day - 2 -- Delhi
Spend morning at leisure. An afternoon sightseeing tour of New Delhi. Visiting places include India Gate, drive past President's House, Qutab Minar & Humayun's tomb. Overnight spend at the hotel.

Day - 3 -- Delhi - Jaipur
Early morning departure towards Jaipur (260-km / 6 hr.). In the afternoon enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of the Pink City covering City Palace, Palace of Winds, Hawa Mahal & Jantar Mantar Observatory. Overnight spend at the hotel in jaipur.

Day - 4 -- Jaipur - Ranthambore
Enjoy a elephant ride while visiting the Amber Fort. After lunch, a jeep safari to Ranthambore National Park (5 hr.). Arrive back to the resort in the evening. Overnight at the wildlife resort.

Day - 5 -- Ranthambore National Park
Enjoy the morning and evening trips in open trucks and jeeps to Ranthambore National Park and spend time tracking tigers and viewing other wildlife attractions of the park. Overnight at the resort.

Day - 6 -- Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
Have some wildlife watching early in the morning and tiger tracking in open-top trucks and jeeps. After lunch, drive to Keoladeo National Park (6 hr.). Arrive back to the resort in the evening. Overnight spent at the hotel in Bharatpur.

Day - 7 -- Bharatpur - Agra
Enjoy a day inside the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary on a cycle rickshaw. Have a picnic, lunch in the Reserve itself. Overnight at the hotel.

Day - 8 -- Agra
Depart for Agra and en route visit the walled city of Fatehpur Sikri. After lunch, enjoy a guided tour of Taj Mahal. Overnight spend at the hotel in agra.

Day - 9 -- Agra - Khajuraho
Tourists can opt for a early morning visit to Agra's Red Fort or spend the morning at leisure. At noon fly to Khajuraho. Arrival at Khajuraho by 1.00 pm. After lunch, guided city tour of Khajuraho temple complex. Overnight in a hotel.

Day - 10 -- Bandhavgarh National Park
Leaving for Bandhavgarh National Park (6 hr.). Arrival at Bandhavgarh by noon. Afternoon visit to the park in jeeps for tiger tracking. Overnight at a wildlife resort.

Day - 11 -- Bandhavgarh National Park
Enjoy jeep safari in the park during morning and evening. Overnight at a wildlife resort.

Day - 12 -- Kanha National Park
Early morning visit to the park. Later on after lunch, drive to Kanha National Park (7hr.). Arrive at Kanha in the evening. Overnight at a wildlife resort.

Day - 13 & 14 -- Kanha National Park
Morning and evening jeep safari at Kanha for tiger tracking, exploring the park's natural wilds or bird watching. Overnight at a wildlife resort.

Day - 15 -- Kanha National Park - Nagpur
Morning jungle visit in the park. After lunch drive to Nagpur (5 hr.). Overnight at the hotel in Nagpur.

Day - 16 -- Nagpur- Delhi/Onward Destination
Catch the flight from Nagpur to Delhi in the morning. Day room at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for your connecting flight to the onward destination.

Madhya Pradesh Wildlife Tour

Madhya Pradesh Wildlife Tour

Duration : 06 Nights / 07 Days

Destinations : Delhi - Nagpur - Kanha - Bandhavgarh - Khajuraho - Delhi

Day 1 : Arrival Delhi
Arrive Delhi by international flight.Welcome and assistance upon arrival at the airport. Later transfer to hotel.
Afternoon optional sightseeing tour of old and new Delhi visiting the Red Fort ,Jama Masjid, Qutub
Minar, Govt. Sect. Etc.Overnight.

Day 2 : Delhi - Nagpur - Kanha National Park
After breakfast transfer to airport for flight to Nagpur. Arrive Nagpur and transfer to Kanha by Surface .
On arrival check-in at hotel. PM Jungle Safari. Overnight .

Day 3 : Kanha National Park
After breakfast get on the back of a elephant for a elephant safari trip or take a trip inside the Kanha Jungle early morning to track tigers or indulge in bird watching. You can also enjoy a good wild photography on your 3 hour long trip to Kanha Wildlife Sanctuary Return to the resort to get fresh and for having lunch. Visitors can also enjoy exploring the surroundings and to do some bird watching. Take up an afternoon drive to the jungle for animal viewing. Overnight.

Day 4 : Kanha National Park - Bandhavgarh National Park
After breakfast proceed for the morning drive into the forest tracking the tigers. Later drive on to Bandhavgarh. On arrival check-in at hotel. PM Safari. Overnight.

Day 5 : Bandhavgarh National Park
After breakfast get on the back of a elephant for a elephant safari trip or take a trip inside the Jungle early morning to track tigers or indulge in bird watching. You can also enjoy a good wild photography on your 3 hour long trip to Bandhavgarh. Return to the resort to get fresh and for having lunch. Visitors can also enjoy exploring the surroundings and to do some bird watching. Take up an afternoon drive to the jungle for animal viewing. Overnight stay in the resort.

Day 6 : Bandhavgarh - Khajuraho
After breakfast drive to Khajuraho. On arrival check-in at hotel .PM visit temples. Overnight.

Day 7 : Khajuraho- Delhi - Onward destination
After breakfast transfer to airport for flight to Delhi. On arrival transfer to airport for flight to onward destination.