Khajuraho - World Heritage Site

The temples of khajuraho are india’s unique gift to the world, representing, as they do, a paean to life, to love, to joy, perfect in execution and sublime in expression. Life, in every form and mood, has been captured in stone, testifying not only to the craftsman’s artistry but also to the extraordinary breadth of vision of the Chandela Rajputs under whose rule the temples were conceived and constructed.

The Khajuraho temples were built in the short span of a hundred years, from 950-1050 AD in a truly inspired burst of creativity. Of the 85 original temples, 22 have survived till today to constitute one of the world’s great artistic wonders.

The creators of Khajuraho claimed descent from the moon and the legend behind the founding of this great dynasty and the temples is a fascinating one. Hemwati, the lovely young daughter of Brahmin priest, was seduced by the moon god while bathing in a forest pool. The child born of this union was Chandravarman, founder the Chandela dynasty. Brought up in the forests by his mother who sought refuge from a censorious society, Chandravarman, when established as a ruler, had a dream visitation from his mother. It is said that she implored him to build temples that would reveal human passions, and in doing so, bring about a realization of the emptiness of human desire. It is also possible that the Chandelas were followers of the Tantric cult, which belives that gratification of the earthy desires is a step towards attaining the infinite liberation or nirvana.

Why they chose Khajuraho, even then a small village, as the site for their great complex is also open to speculation. One theory is that, given the eclectic nature of their faith and the many beliefs represented in temples, the learning, to bring together many sects.

With their decline, the temples lay forgotten for many centuries, covered by the encroaching forests, victim to the ravages of the elements. Re- discovered in the early 20^th century, restored and cleaned, the temples of Khajuraho once again testify to a past glory.

Architecturally too, they are unique, being different from the temple prototype of their period. Each stands on a high masonry platform with a marked upward direction in the structures, further enhanced by vertical projection to create the effect of grace and lightness. Each if the chief compartments is mounted by its own roof, grouped so that the highest is in the center, the lowest over the portico a highly imaginative recreation of the rising peaks of the  Himalayas abode the gods.

The three main compartments are the entrance (ardha-mandapa), assembly hall (mandapa) and sanctum (garbha griha) with further additions in the more developed temples.

WHAT TO SEE

Western Group:

Kandariya Mahadeo: The largest and the most typical of the Khajuraho temples, it soars 31 m high, Dedicated Shiva, the sanctum sanctorum enshrines a lingam. The main shrine is exquisitely carved and features in delicate details, gods, goddesses, celestial maidens and lovers. Perticularly noteworthy are the entrance arch, the ceilings and pillars of the interior compartments.

Chaunsath Yogini:  The only granite temple and the earliest surviving shrine of the group (900 AD), it is dedicated to Kali. Only 35 of the original 65 shrines remain. Another Kali temple (originally dedicated to Vishnu) is the Devi Jagdambe Temple.

Chitragupta Temple: Facing eastwards to the rising sun, the temple is dedicated to the sun god, Surya. The image of the diety in the inner sanctum is particularly imposing: five feet high, and driving a horse drawn chariot. The group scenes depict royal processions, hunting scenes and group dances, reflecting the lavish lifestyle of the Chandela courts.

Vishwanath Temple: A three headed image of Brahma is enshrined in this temple. The approach is equally impressive, with lions flanking the northern and elephants the southern steps that lead up to it. A Nandi bull faces the shrine.

Lakshmana Temle: The lintel over the entrance of this beautiful Vaishnavite temple shows the trinity of Brahma. Vishnu and Shiva with Lakshmi, Vishnu’s consort. The finely carved sanctum has a three headed idol of Vishnu’s incaenations, Narasimha and Varaha. This boar incarnation also appears in a nine-feet high statue at the Varaha temple.

Matangeswara Temple: Still a living place of worship, the temple is dedicated to Shiva, has an eight feet high lingam and is outside the precincts of the Western group.

Eastern Group:

Parsvanth Temple:  The group’s largest Jain temple and exquisite in details. The sculptures on the northern outer wall are particularly noteworthy. The themes depict, in charming detail, everyday activity. Within a throne faces the bull emblem of the first tirthankara, Adinath. The Parsvanath image was installed in 1860.

Ghantai Temple: This Jain temple has a frieze which depicts the 16 dreams of Mahavira’s mother, and a jain goddess on a winged Garuda.

Adhinath Temple:  Dedicated to the Jain saint , Adinath, the temple is lavishly embellished with sculpted figures, including yakshis.

The Three Hindu temples of the group are the Bramha, containing a four-faced lingam, the Vamana, which is adomed on its outer walls with carving of apsaras in the variety of sensuous attitudes and the Javari, with a richly carved gateway and exterior sculptures.

Southern Group

Duladeo Temple: Dedicated to Shiva the apsara and ornamented figures are the temple’s most striking features.

Chaturbhuj Temple: This temple ha a massive, intricately-carved image of Vishnu in the sanctum.

Sanctum & Light Show: This fascinating Son-et-Lumiere spectacle evokes the life and times of the great Chandela Kings and traces the story of the unique temples from the 10^th Century to the present day. Mounted in the complex of the Western Group of temples, the 50-minute show runs in Hindi and in English every evening. Amitabh Bachchan, the Indian super star, narrates the story of Khajuraho in his mesmerizing voice.

State Museum of Tribal and Folk Arts : A fine collection of masterpieces of tribal and folk arts and artifacts from all over Madhya Pradesh is on display at the Chandela Cultural Complex. The State Museum has more than 500 representative items of terracottas, metal craft, woodcraft, tribal and folk paintings, tattoos, jewellery and masks. Timing: The museum is open on all days except Mondays and Government Holiday from 12 noon to 8:00pm.

New Temples Excavated: In recent excavations at Bija Mandal, located 3 Km south-east of the western group of temples, remains of several temples even older than the originally known 85 have been found.

EXCEURSIONS

Panna National Park: Panna National Park, 32km away and a mere 30-minute drive from Khajuraho, spreads along the river Ken. The jungles today harbor many species of wildlife. The tiger can be glimpsed here, with other rare species such as the leopard, wolf and gharial. Herds of bluebull, chinkara and sambar are a common sight. On the road to Panna are the spectacular Pandav Falls, Alternate picnic sites are Benisagar Dam, Raneh Falls and Ranguan Lake, while interesting trips can be made to Rajgarh Palace, now being converted in to a Heritage Hotel, and Dhubela Museum. Further away is Bandhavgarh National park and tranquil Chitrakoot.

HOW TO REACH

BY Air: Regular services link Khajuraho with Delhi and Varanasi.

By Rail: Khajuraho has its own railway station linking it to Delhi, Jhansi (172 Km), Harpalpur(94Km)& Mahoba (64 Km), Satna (117 Km) which is on the Mumbai-Allahabad line of the Central Railway is a convenient rail link for those coming from Mumbai, Kolkata and Varansi.

By Road: Khajuraho is connected by regular buses with Satna, Harpalpur, Jhansiand Mahoba.

Best Season: July to March

This article written by Madhya Pradesh Tourism and posted by MakeYouTravel.com, which provides the Cheap International Tour Packages and Cheap Holiday Packages in India

Green Times for Kids

“Kids today are occupied with swanky gadgets, but spending time with nature plays a significant role in shaping them”

Is your child spending more time in front of electronic screens than in a natural environment? A study by Public Health England has found that children who spent more than four hours a day watching a screen were quite likely to have a number of anxiety problems.

I am sure you will agree that a toddler chasing butterflies with the hope of catching one is a more pleasant sight than watching little fingers manipulates a joystick to get a smooth hairpin-turn on a gaming console. Research shows that children who are more exposed to nature do well in school since they have better attention spans, good observation skills and much lower stress levels.

WALK AND WATCH

Your nature trip with kids does not have to be an ambitious one or planned much in advance. The neighbourhood park is the best place to begin your child’s green journey; it can provide the much needed daily dose of greenery.

Let your child find a small patch of soil to dig up with a toy spade. Watch his eyes light up as he rubs his palm against the mud, stones and grass, and gets sown to some serious work. Help him spot sanils, earthworms, lady birds and various bugs crawling by, and see him get mesmerized by their colour, size and gait. Seeing a praying squirrel a nagging crow or a shy mongoose can help your child get familiar with the animal stories he has been reading. Watching an ant hillbeing made makes for interesting viewing, but the challenge lies in keeping those little feet away from stomping it down!  I can recall how earlier the use of a magnifying glass to burn ants was considered a lesson in science, but now we also need to teach our kids to respect every life.  Exploring nature in groups is popular among children, and very often parents also join them. Ramit Mitra, Founder, Delhi by Foot. Organizes nature walks for children, covering various green spots in and around Delhi. He says, “Children learn best from ‘experiential learning.’ What they read and are taught in schools translates into experiencing it in real life, which then turns into a permanent imprint on their impressionable minds. A walk amidst verdant greens means initiating kids to the ever-increasing importance of conversing our forests and the natural habitats of animals and birds. During our walks, naturalists and bird specialists help Children to understand various natural habitats, identify bird calls, recognize varieties of trees and appreciate the bio-degradation of wastes.”

BIRD WATCHING

Indulging in bird watching is another enriching experience for a child of any age. This can be done at a bird sanctuary, a park, and for the really time-crunched parent, the humble balcony can also give a good view! Encouraging your child to identify birds, sometimes just by their second, can help him bond with these winged beauties. Peeping into a bird’s nest is ‘highly unethical’, but if it is at a visible distance, let your child have a glimpse of the eggs or fledglings – it’ll calm a curious mind. You can hang a bird feeder outside your house as it would ensure a regular stream of feathered visitors, and will give your child some quit time with nature. Sometimes you may see scores of pigeons and doves flock together at road roundabouts and near historical places. Feeding these birds can be fun for children.

While with nature, should children take picture or not? Ideally it is best to stay clear of taking pictures since one tends to go overboard clicking everything in sight, and the beauty of the moment gets lost while the child is busy looking through a lens.

GREEN TIME

According to Ajay Mahajan, environment educator, Kalpavriksh and Vividhara, “When children are exposed to nature they follow a natural learning process, and do not need any structured instructions. I believe that children who spend time with nature experience a sense of peace and tranquility. When kids connect well with their natural surroundings, their chances of feeling alienated are reduces and they find solace in nature during difficult times.”

Reducing the time spent by children with electronic media is an uphill task that most parents face. You will notice that when adults become enthusiastic about any activity, their children follow, Parents and educators must therefore set an example of kids and help them build a relationship with nature.

When author Mariam Karim – Ahlawat holds workshops for kids. She talks to them about animals and trees so that they may live in the world around them, and not just interact with technology. She says, “Kids can learn so much from nature since it is soothing, friendly, accepting; and gives joy, peace and harmony. We must respect and preserve our natural surroundings.”

They simple joy of running around the park crunching dry leaves underfoot and smelling different flowers is something every child would enjoy. So the next time your child wants to go to mall. Try suggesting a walk in the park!

This article written by Jacquiline Robets Singh behalf of Spice Route Magazine and posted by MakeYouTravel.com, which provides the International Tours and Domestic Tours Packages.

A Living Heritage of Heroism – Gwalior

The ancient capital of Gwalior is steeped in the splendor of its past. A multitude of reigning dynastic, of the great Rajput clans of Pratiharas, kachwahas and Tomaras have left indelible the magnificent momentoes of a glorious past have been preserved with care, giving Gwalior a unique and timeless appeal.

Gwalior’s history is tracked back to a legend. In 8 A.D. a chieftain called Suraj Sen was stricken by a deadly disease. He was cured by a hermit saint, Gwalipa, and in gratitude founded a city which he named after the saint who had given him the gift of a new life.

The new city of Gwalior became, over the centuries, the cradle of great dynasties and with each, the city gained new dimensions from warrior kings, poets, musicians and saints, contributing to making it a capital renowned throughout the country. Today, Gwalior is a modern Indian city, vibrant and bustling.

WHAT TO SEE

The Fort: Standing on a steep mass of sandstone, Gwalior Fort dominates the city and its most magnificent. It has been the scene of momentous events: imprisonments, battles and jauhars.

A steep road winds upwards to the fort, flanked by statues of the Jain tirhankaras, carved into the rock face. The magnifivent outer walls of the fort still stand, two miles in length and 35 feet high, bearing witness to its reputation for being one of the most invincible forts of India. This imposing structure inspired Emperor Babur to describe it as “the pearl amongst the fortresses of Hind.”

Gujari Mahal: Within the fort are some marvels of medieval architecture. The 15^th Century Gujari Mahal is a monument to the love of Raja Mansingh Tomar for his intrepid Gujar queen, Mrignayni. The outer structure of Gujari Mahal has survived in an almost total state of preservation; the interior has been converted in to an Archaeological Museum housing rare antiquities, some of them dating back to to the 1^st century AD. Even through many of these have been defaced by the iconoclastc Mughals, their perfection of form has survived the ravages of time. Particularly worth seeing is the statue of Shalbhanjika from Gyaraspur, the tree goddess, epitome of perfection in miniature. The Statue is kept in the custody of the museum’s curator, and can be seen on request.

Man Mandir Palace: Built between 1486 and 1517 by Raja Mansingh. The tiles that once adorned its exterior have not survived, but at the entrance, traces of these still remain. Within the palace rooms stand bare, stripped of their former glory, testifying to the passing of the centuries. Vast chambers with fine stone screens were once the music halls, and behind these screens, the royal ladies would learn music from the great masters of the day. Below, circular dungeons housed the state prisoners of the Mughals, Emperor Aurangzeb had his brother, Murad, imprisoned, and later executed here. Close by is Jauhar Pond, where, in the Rajput tradition, the ranis committed mass sati after their consorts had been defeated in the battle. At Man Mandir Palace, a poignant ambience of those days of chivalry and heroism still lingers in the silent chambers.

A superbly mounted Son-et-Lumiere here brings it all alive every evening.

Suraj Kund : Through major portions of the fort were built in the 15^th century, reference to this gigantic complex can be traced back to 425 A.D. Older than the city is the Suraj Kund within the Fort walls, the original pond where Suraj Sen, or Suraj Pal as he was later known, was cured by saint Gwalipa.

Teli Ka Mandir and Sas Bahu Ka Mandir : The 9^th century Teli ka Mandir, towering 100ft high, is a Pratihara Vishnu temple of a unique blending of architectural styles, The shape of the roof is distinctively Dravidian, while the decorative embellishments have the typically Indo Aryan characteristics of northem India.

Also dedicated to Vishnu is the graceful Sas-Bahu Ka Mandir built in the 11^th century.

Gurudwara Data Bandhi Chhod : Built in the memory of Guru Hargobind Saheb, the 6^th Sikh Guru who was imprisoned here by Emperor Jahangir for over two years.

Jaivilas Palace and Museum :  A splendor of a different kind exists in the Jaivilas Palace, current residence of the Scindia family. Some 35 rooms have been turned into the Jivaji Rao Scindia Museum, and in these rooms, so evocative of a regal lifestyle, the past comes alive. Jaivilas is an Italianate structure which combines the Tuscan and Corinthian architectural modes. The imposing Darbar Hall has two central chandeliers weighting three and a half tones each and hung only after ten elephants had tested the strength to the roof. Ceilings picked out in gilt, heavy draperies and tapestries, fine Persian carpets and antique furniture from france snd Itally are feature of these spacious rooms. Eye-catching include: a silver train with cutglass wagons which served guests as it chugged around the table on miniature rails; a glass cradie from Itally used for the baby Krishna each Janmashtmi, silver dinner services and swords that were once worn by Aurangzeb and Shah Jehan.

There are besides personal mementoes of past members of the Scindia family : the jeweled slippers that belonged to Chinkoo Rani, four-poster beds, gifts from practically every country in the world, hunting trophies and portraits. The Scindia Museum offers an unparalleled glimpse into the rich culture and lifestyle of princely India.

Tansen’s Tomb : A pillar of Hindustani classical music, the great Tansen, one of the ‘nine jewels’ of Akbar’s court, lies buried in Gwalior. The memorial to this great musician has a pristine simplicity, and is built in early Mughal architectural style. More than a monument, the tomb is part of Gwalior’s living cultural heritage: it is the venue of a music festival on a national scale held annually in November – December.

Ghaus Mohammed’s Tomb:  The sandstone mausoleum of the Afghan prience, Ghaus Mohammed is also designed on early Mughal lines. Particularly exquisite are the screens which use the pierced stone technique as delicate as lace.

Memorials: The earliest freedom fighters, Tatya Tope and the indomitable Rani of Jhansi, are commemorated in memorials in Gwalior. There are cenotaphs at major public crossings, memorials of Scindia kings and queens. Throughout the city, there are these reminders of proud past, of the great men and women of Gwalior who has their place in the nation’s roll of honour.

Kala Vithika and Municipal Museum: The Kala Vithika is another treasure house of the arts. It remains closed on Sundays and public holidays. The Municipal Corporation Museum, open all days except Mondays, has a very fine natural history section.

Sarod Ghar : This museum of music has been set up in the old ancestral house of the legendary Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan. It houses ancient instruments of the great India masters of yesteryear's.

Sun Temple: Located near the Residency at Morar, the sun Temple takes its inspiration from the famous Konark Sun Temple in Orissa.

Excursions

Bateshwar Group of Temples: (40 Km via Malanpur)

The Bateshwar Group of Temples consists of large number of temples in various states of preservation. Most of these are single cell shrines with shikharas, surmounted by amalakas. The main temple here is known as the Bhuteshwar Mahadev Temple. The temples at Bateswara belong to Pratihara and Kachapaghata period spanning between 8^th and 12^th century AD.

Sihoniya (Kakanmath Temple) – 90 km via Morena

The Shiva Temple locally known as Kakanmath is built on a spacious platform which, on plan consists of sanctum, a pillared hall and a porch. The lofty spire now partly in ruins was covered with sculptures and artistic designs. The pillars in the halls are a massive, fall and majestic covered with fine decorative carvings. The temple is dated to 11^th century AD.

Padavli – 38 km via Malanpur

The fortress at Padavli was built by the Jat Ranas of Gohad. Among the most conspicuous architecture at this site in the temple inside the fortress. This Shiva temple consists of Mandapa with intricately carved ceiling and study pillars. The temple is embellished with depiction of Mythological scenes from the Ramayana. It is dated to the reign of Kachhapghatta rulers

Mitavli – 40km via Malanoy

The temple stands on a circular platform in an open court enclosed by a circular wall with small cells and colonnade in side with a Shiva image in each cell. It is dated to the 14^th century AD. On the basis of an inscription dated to V.S. 1380 (1323 AD,  it can be claimed that the temple was built by the erstwhile ruler Maharaja Devapala. This type of circular architecture is unique to the Gwalior region.

HOW TO REACH

BY Air: Gwalior is connected to Delhi and Jabalpur.

BY Rail:  Gwalior is on the Central Railway’s main Delhi- Mumbai and Delhi- Chennai lines. Among other major trains, the Taj and Shatabdi Expresses connected Gwalior with Delhi and Agra.

BY Road: Gwalior is connected by regular bus services with Agra, mathus, Jaipur, Delhi, Lucknow, Bhopal, Chanderi, Indore, Jhansi, Khajuraho, Rewa, Ujjain and Shivpuri.

This Article written by Madhya Pradesh Toursim and Posted by MakeYouTravel.com, which provides the International Travel Package and Domestic Travel Packages

Short Singapore Tour – 2 Days

Certainly the model of an ‘Ideal City’, Singapore is friendly without being ‘in your face’. It also has strong economics, great shopping, solid infrastructure, lots of green space, unique multiculturalism, good food and more. There is loads of public art and an incredible tube system. And the city is cheap and reliable

“Public art, clean streets and fun places.. You return home enriched, as you get to explore an ‘experiential touch-do-and-engage vacation’ instead of mere ‘checklist holiday’ ”

Day: 1

9Am: HAWKER CENTER

A visit to the Hawker Centre is perhaps the best way to start your Singapore tour as there can be no better way to sample authentic local favorites without forking out too much moolah. Most of the hawker centre is open air and yet offer shelters, letting you enjoy your food even if it’s raining (which is certainly not an uncommon thing in Singapore)! Go to Maxwell, just nest to China Town , Recommendations go to all out for huge tumblers of refreshing and sweet sugar care juice and chai tow kway (Fried Carrot Cake) in both black and white versions. Also try some congee, paper roast chicken. Duck noodle soup, the famed kaya toast  with half boiled egg… astonishingly  decadent truly nowhere else in the world can one find such an electric array of food! And I must admit the cleanliness of the place is a big plus.

10Am: CHINA TOWN

Interestingly this cultural hub of the Chinese community, alongside being a historical district, is known as ‘ox cart water’ owing to the fact that ox-drawn carts were used to transport water in the past in this area. The architecture here is very Victorian with red rooftops to be seen everywhere. The food street has around 100 hawker stands, selling seafood in particular. It is also a great place to buy inexpensive souvenirs for fashion goods to electronic gear. Not t be missed are the three restored shop houses showcasing the rich heritage and serving as a repository for memories, sights and sounds. Needless to add, this China town is also the cleanest in the world.

“Don’t forget to try the famed kaya toast with half boiled egg”

11:30 Am: WALK ALONG ORCHARD ROAD

Considered the hub of Singapore’s retail and entertainment scene, this popular road attracts both locals and tourists alike owing to it being a shopper’s paradise. Interestingly this name was based on the numerous orchards that could be found in this area before the 20^th century. But a time came when plague infested the land and killed all the trees. And now, it’s like being at the 5^th Avenue of the New York among hundreds of high-end shops that populate the area. Needless to add, like true Indians, you can shop till you drop out here. Have your lunch at any of the restaurants around that catches your fancy – they’re all good.

6PM: SINGAPORE FLYER

Nothing quite beats the romance of a sky-high drink amid an unbeatable aerial view of Singapore’s Marina Bay including the new Marina Bay floating Platform, which is used for Singapore’s National Day parades and even the island city’s central business district.  As the capsule gradually climbs towards the apex, one can see the lights which make the city skyline glitter. The 360 degree view of the city throughout the experience is thrilling.

7:30PM: CLARKE QUAY

Walking along the river you will come across the statue of Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles who is known to have converted Singapore from a tiny fishing village into a major British trading port. A little ahead you can spot three leaning towers on the other side of a bridge. This is the G-Max reverse bungee right at the entrance of Clark Quay, unique to Singapore, and is unlike the conventional one. In this case, you are strapped up in an open-air capsule, thrown up and then spun around. Of course you scream. Post this thrilling experience you can check out the various bars and restaurants (former warehouses), and treat yourselves to a Singapore Sling (a cocktail) and some seafood dinner.

Day 2

8:00AM: BEHIND THE SCENES

Jurong Bird Park is the world’s largest aviary. After a look at the whole park, you can scoot off literally (on battery operated scooters), for some behind the scene feeding frenzy. It is an unforgettable tour which provides an opportunity to get up close to long legged flamingo beauties, taller than life ostriches, three toed cassowaries, white-tailed Nicobar pigeons and lace like crested crowned pigeons among many others. It was also interesting to discover how the avian team incubates eggs and cares for chicks.

2:00PM: BOTANIC GARDENS AND LUNCH

Whether you want to smell the flowers, learn about medicinal plants or just enjoy the open space, the Botanic Gardens deserve a place on you Singapore to do list. The National Orchid Garden (One of the biggest attractions, with a small entrance fee) within is home to more than 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids. The other themed gardens are completely free and just as enjoyable. Highlights include fragrant frangipani, fruit trees, the ginger garden with a walk through waterfall, and a swatch of virgin rain forest with trees reaching heights over 40 meters. For your lunch break check out Halia, which whisks you away from the hustle and bustle of Singapore, transporting you into a charming world of flora and fauna, fine wines and above all, one of the most delectable multi- dimensional palate experience.

6:00PM: FAMED MERLION

Take a boat ride from the Clarke Quay and sail a along into the open water in front of the Merlion fountain and just along the esplanade, across the Singapore River and you arrive a Merlion Park, The Merlion is a mythical creature said to have been dreamt up by the founding father of Singapore. Legend has it that a Sumatran prince, the son of Alexander the great, discovered an island when out sailing the oceans. Upon landing on the island the prince was confronted by a ferocious lion. By showing respect to lion he survived to see another day. The lion, combined with the Marine nature of the island, inspired the Merlion – a creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish.

10:30 PM: NIGHT SAFARI

End your day with a tram ride through the zoo, after dark, when all the night animals are out and in their natural environments. The Singapore Zoo is huge and they really do let the animals roam wild, some of them come right up to the tram! You would come across rhinoceros, giraffe, elephant, ox, lions and all manner of local beasts and animals including an Asian tiger. But the best part is the flying squirrel. You may actually find one flying over you.. an unforgettable experience.

This article written by Rupali Dean, behalf of Spice Route Mag and posted by MakeYouTravel.com, which provides the International Holiday Package and Domestic Holiday Package. 

India Natural Beauty - Gangtok, Sikkim

A delightful mix of natural beauty and spirituality, Gangtok is perfect for a twosome to create unforgettable memories, Kanchenjunga, the world’s third- highest mountain, forms the backdrop ti this city.

Dedicate one early morning to Ganesh Tok, the highest point around Gangtok (6500 ft), the steep ascend accessible in a taxi. On a clear day, you will be able to witness the beauty of the city. Tashi viewpoint is another option with breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga. And if you want fulfillment of joint wishes, go to Hanuman Tok – a Hindu temple complex dedicated to Lord Hanuman.

Bird Eye View of Gangtok

"If you want fulfillment of wishes, go to Hanuman Tok, a Hindu Temple"

There are also picturesque waterfalls on view, including Bakthang Waterfalls and Banjhankari Falls. In the letter, statues demonstrate how the Jhankari tribesmen heal people using natural products and herbs. For enchanting view of flowers, go to Tsomgo Lake, 40 km away. Clear waters are surrounded by snow-capped mountains, along with eye catching blue and yellow poppies. Rhododendrons and primulas that bloom between May and August. Add to the experience- ride a yak here!

For a spiritual high, visit Rumtek monastery, 24km away. The largest monastery in Sikkim, it has many sacred objects including a magnificent golden stupa containing the relics of the 16^th Karmpa. Or go to Temi tea garden, 124km away. Spread out on a gentle hill slope, it provides panoramic views.

MakeYouTravel.com (Tour Operator) offers mountain biking excursions – if you’re up for the challenge, it’s a great way to bond as you explore the lush gree hills and dales with a hint of thrill. Don’t forget to feast on momos and thukpa. Avoid visiting during the rainy season.

This article written by Spice Route Magazine and posted by MakeYouTravel.com, which provides the Domestic Tours Packages and International Tours Package

Goa Airport: Better Than Ever

Goa is one of most popular tourist destinations among foreign as well as domestic travelers. With a record increase of 12 % in the number of tourists visiting the state in 2013 as compared to the previous year, the Goa Airport is one of the most visited airports in India.

“Keeping in mind the increased football, the new integrated terminal was recently opened offering hassle-free experience to passengers”

NEED FOR MORE

Goa is one of the most sought after tourist destinations in India. The city sees more foreign football in the peak season (December to February) than domestic travelers. Keeping in mind the huge rush, there was a rising need of better facilities at the airport. As an Answer to this increasing need for improved facilities and growing capacity, the new terminal was given a makeover. It can now handle up to 2,750 passengers during peak hours (2,000 domestic and 750 international passengers approximately), the equivalent of an annual capacity of 4.5 million passengers.

SPACIOUS & MODERN

The new terminal is now an integrated building capable of handling both domestic and international operations with equal ease. The Terminal building is equipped with modern, state of art facilities. Five passenger boarding bridges, CUTE-enabled check in counters (Common User Terminal Equipment) which make the check in process more comfortable during rush hours, inline compatible baggage handling system, software based building management system, elevators and escalators.. All these and much more will all enable the airport to handle more passengers, with ease. With more space and modern designing, the terminal is now all set to welcome visitors to Goa. According to Airport Authority sources, the next plan is to further develop the western side finger of the terminal building, to enhance the handling capacity and operational efficiency.

This article by Spice Route and posted by MakeYouTravel.com, which provides best services for Domestic Travel and International Travel .