Qutub Minar in Delhi

Qutub Minar : This most famous landmark of Delhi towering above the Lal Kot monuments, is one of the World Heritage Sites of UNESCO. It is 72.5 metres tall and tapers from a base diameter of 14.4 metres to a peak diameter of 2.4 metres. The five storeyed minar has three storeys built of red sandstone and two of marble and sandstone. Each storey is clearly distinguished from the outside because of its projecting balconies. Its foundation was laid by Qutbud-din Aibak (1193) and was completed by his son-in-law and successor Shamsuddin Iltumish. The Devanagari inscriptions on the minar mentions that the it was damaged in 1326 and repaired by Muhammad-bin Tughlak and in 1368, Firoz Shah replaced the upper storey and added two floors, making liberal use of marble stone. A unique 7 metre high Iron Pillar in courtyard of Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque was perhaps a flagpole of a 4th – 5th century Vishnu temple. It has remained completely rust free for over 1500 years and is a tribute to ancient Indian metallurgy. Other attractions nearby are – the Tombs of the Sultans Iltumish (1235), Alauddin, Balban and of Adham Khan, son of the emperor Akbar’s wet nurse.

Reaching there:
By Air :
From Qutub minar, nearest airports are Indra Gandhi International Airport and Palam Domestic Airport. Both these airports are situated in Delhi & well connected with regular flights from important cities of the country and the world as well. Frequent shuttles run between these airports.
By Train :
Delhi has three major railheads namely – Delhi, New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station. These stations are served by many express and super fast trains from various parts of the country. You can easily reach to Qutub Minar from these railway stations by local transport.
By Bus :
Qutub Minar is quite easy as Qutub Minar is very well connected with the low floor DTC buses. Delhi Tourism offers Delhi Darshan Day tours and cover Qutub Minar.
Local Transport :
Buses, Taxis, Cars, Auto-rickshaws are available as local modes of transport, you can reach Qutab Minar by opting any mode.

Patiala: Moti Bagh Palace & Sheesh Mahal in Punjab

Patiala

It was founded in 1753, by Maharaja Ala Singh and named Patiala, literally the territory (pati) of Ala. In 1948, it became the capital of a new state, PEPSU (Patiala and East Punjab States Union), created by merging the princely states of East Punjab. The rulers of Patiala were great patrons of art and crafts, which made the city an important centre of Punjabi language and culture.
Moti Bagh Palace : The magnificent palace in Indo-Saracenic style was completed in early 20th century and is one of the largest residences in Asia. It is surrounded by beautiful terraced gardens and water channels. The main palace now houses the National Institute of Sports and Sports Museum.


Sheesh Mahal : The charming palace near a small lake was built during the reign of Maharaja Narinder Singh (1845-1862). Its interiors are beautifully embellished with pieces of glass and mirror (sheesh). An Art Gallery here displays antique paintings, bronzes, sculptures and portraits of the Maharajas of Patiala. World’s largest collection of medals, decoration and orders of various countries are exhibited here.

Reaching there:
By Air
The nearest airport is located in the city of Chandigarh. You can take a flight to the airport in Chandigarh and can take a taxi or bus from there to Patiala. There are many domestic flights to Chandigarh as this is an important airport, and the airport is well connected to all Indian cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai and Bangalore.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Patiala. There are regular trains from the cities of Mumbai, Chandigarh and Delhi and train fares will cost around Rs 450 to 550 (approx.). You can take air conditioned coaches or normal coaches, and tickets need to be booked well in advance.
By Road
Travelling to Patiala from local destinations through bus can be easy. Buses to Patiala will charge fares of around Rs 150 to 250 (approx.) within Punjab.

Golconda Fort (from Hyderabad 12 kms.) in Andhra Pradesh

The glorious remains of this once impregnable fort sprawl over a hill side about 1000 feet above the surrounding countryside. The forts name is derived from the Telugu word “Golla Konda” meaning “Shepherd’s Hill”. Originally, it was a mud fort built by the Kakatiya kings of Warangal in 1143. The Qutub Shah dynasty held it from 1518 to 1687 and the first three Qutub Shahi kings rebuilt Golconda over a span of 62 years. The prosperous city was famous for its diamonds and hand painted textiles. Attracted by the wealth and prosperity of Golconda, the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb conquered Golconda after an eight month siege. The grandeur of this mammoth fort can be experienced from the top of the citadel. Within the fort are – an armoury, palaces, the store, courtyards, fountains, mosque, public and private meeting halls and temple. The fort is noted for its magnificent acoustics, the structural grandeur of its palaces, factories and ingenious water supply system. A sound and light show is held here in the evenings.

Reaching there:
By Air
The nearest airport from Golconda fort is Hyderabad International Airport (12 Kms.). It is well connected to many important cities abroad.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Secunderabad, one of the twin cities with Hyderabad, is a major station with the head quarters of Southern Railway.
By Road
Andhra Pradesh state owned buses connect Hyderabad city with all cities in the state and the neighboring states. Golconda fort is well connected with Hyderabad. Hyderabad is a hub of deluxe, super deluxe, A/C and Volvo tourist buses. Hyderabad is connected by these superb buses to many cities, including Bangalore, Chennai, Vishakapatnam and Vijayawada.

Somnath Temple in Gujarat

Somnath, the shrine eternal facing the blue expanse of Arabian Sea is said to be as old as creation. Like a phoenix, it has risen seven times from ashes and depicts a saga of devotion and heroism. The legendary temple is believed to have been built by the Moon God – ‘Soma’ and enshrines one of the 12 jyotirlingas. Somnath celebrates a large fair on the day of the full moon of Kartik Purnima in November/December. Maha Shivratri in the month of March is also a major festival here. The present temple structure was commissioned by Sardar Patel in 1950’s. One can visit the place round the year but the best season to visit is winters-from October to March.

Reaching there:
By Air
The nearest airport from Somnath is Keshod 55 km away and linked to Mumbai. There are regular buses and taxis plying between Keshod and Somnath.
By Train
The nearest railhead is 6 km away at Veraval, which is connected by train to Ahmedabad and some other cities in Gujarat.
By Road
State transport corporation buses and private coaches run regular service to other cities in the region. Somnath is connected by a good road network to the other nearby places like Veraval 6 km, Mumbai 890 km, Ahmedabad 400 km, Bhavnagar 265 km, Junagarh 86 km, and Porbandar 121 km.

Surajkund in Haryana

Surajkund is located just 8 kms. from south Delhi on the Delhi-Agra National Highway and is also very well connected by road with Faridabad and Gurgaon. Today, it is synonymous with the world famous Surajkund Crafts Fair, held every year from Feb.1 to Feb15. Some of the finest handloom and handicraft traditions of India are on display here. Visitors can buy these products directly from the weavers or craftsperson, bypassing the middlemen and distributors. One can also view the craft and loom techniques in the demonstration sections. The fair is also an introduction to rural life in India. One can enjoy the various colorful cultural programmes as well as the authentic Indian cuisine at the mini Food Festival. Hermitage Huts, Rajhans and Sunbird are the three tourist resorts run by Haryana Tourism at Surajkund.

Reaching there:
By Road
Surajkund is 8 km from South Delhi. The approach road branches off from the Mehrauli-Tughlaqabad highway and goes past the Rifle Shooting Range. Alternatively, Surajkund and Badhkal can be approached from the Delhi-Agra highway, turning right before Faridabad.
By Air
Surajkund is 25 km from Palam Airport and 35 minute drive from the Indira Gandhi International Airport.
By Train
The nearest railway junction is Old Delhi railway station. Faridabad and Gurgaon are both connected to Delhi via railway lines. The car/cab/tourist coach is available from the railway station to Surajkund.

Chandannagar (at Hooghly) in West Bengal

Around Kolkata (39 kms from Kolkata)

Chandannagar (Chandernagore) : This former French colony on the banks of the river Hooghly is dotted with churches, convents and other relics of colonial past. A picturesque promenade beside the river hooghly is ideal for strolls; it is also called “Strand”. The city is also known for the Jagaddhatri Puja.

Jagaddhatri Puja: this is, the most important festival of Chandannagar, held in the month of November. Images of the four-armed Goddess are worshipped in houses and at Pandals erected specially for the Puja. After the four-day ceremony, these images are immersed in the river. Also lighting of this festival is very colorful & attractive. If you want to come in Chandannagar, this time of Jagaddhatri Puja i.e. Oct-Nov is the best season for coming.

Visiting places: Chandannagar Museum, Strand (alongside of the river), Sacred Heart Church, Library, Clock tower & Rabindra Vaban at strand, Jora Ghat (Twin quay/ bathing place), Nandadulal Temple, Temple of Maa Borai Chandi, Probartak Ashram, Bhasa Sahid Minar, Patal Bari (Underground home), KMDA & Chhuti park etc. Chandannagar is also called as “Jagaddhatri Nagar” for the famous festival of Jagaddhatri Puja. If you visit the West Bengal, you must visit this charming city for the one time and you will get plethora memorable experiences for lifetime.

Reaching there:
By Train
The city has a small railway station that is well connected to Howrah. Regular trains are available and this is a good option. Few express trains also halt at the station. Autos and taxis can be hired from the station to the city.
By Air
The nearest Airport is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport ( Dum Dum Airport). Distance of Airport to Chandannagar is about 40 kms. You can easily travel from airport to this city by taxi or Bus.
By Road
Chandannagar has good road connectivity and one can reach the place using buses or taxis. The city of Kolkata is situated at a distance of around 39 kilometers from the place.
By River
The city has a small quay (Rani Ghat) of ferry service which is well connected with Kolkata / Howrah by the river ‘Ganga’( Hooghly river). When you travel using the waterway for reaching Chandannagar, you can feel pleasant and see the scenic beauty alongside the ‘Ganga’ river which will be superb experience to you forever.

Darjeeling in West Bengal

Delightful Darjeeling, the ‘Queen of Himalayas’ perched at an altitude of 2,135 metres is said to be named after a Tibetan word, ‘Dorje ling’ or ‘Place of the Thunderbolt’. It is endowed with exceptional scenic beauty and offers a magnificent view of the grandeur and beauty of the mighty Himalayas. The beautiful town is indeed a paradise for holiday and adventure seekers as well as botanists, ornithologists, photographers and artists. The lovely lush woods around Darjeeling are full of conifers like fir, pine and birch and are known for exotic orchids and are home to rich animal and bird-life. The name Darjeeling is also synonymous with the most exquisite tea of the world. There has many attractable tourist spot; these are Batasia Loop(5kms.), Bhutia Basti Monastery, Dhirdham Temple, Chowrasta or Crossroad, Natural History Museum, Tenzing Norgay Mountaineering Institute, Observatory Hill, Lloyd Botanical Garden, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Garden, Japanese Peace Pagoda etc.

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR)
The famous Toy Train of Darjeeling is listed among the World Heritage Sites of UNESCO and is a living reminder of the 19th century Darjeeling. It runs between Shiliguri and Darjeeling, covering a distance of 82 kms. on a 610 mm gauge. The mini train is a marvel of rail engineering and weaves a magical spell as it passes through the beautiful landscape teeming with tea gardens, serpentine streams and excellent view points. The Ghoom railway station on this track is located at the highest altitude in the country. One should at least take a joy ride on this magnificent train from Darjeeling to Ghoom.

Darjeeling Ropeway
There are two ropeway systems at Darjeeling. The first one is 1,410 m long, connecting Darjeeling with Bijanbari at the little Rangeet Valley. While the second one is a bi-cable passenger ropeway that connects Darjeeling’s North Point and Singla, covering an aerial distance of 8 kms. It is the first bi-cable passenger-carrying ropeway in India and the longest of its kind in Asia.

Reaching there:
By Air
The nearest airport is Bagdogra near Siliguri, which is at a distance of 92 km from Darjeeling. This airport is connected to Kolkata, Delhi and Guwahati. International travelers can get connecting flights from Kolkata or Delhi. Both are well connected with many cities in India and abroad.
By Train
The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri. This is well connected to most of the major cities in India. The town of Darjeeling is approachable from Siliguri, nearly 80 km away, by Darjeeling Himalayan Railway also known as Toy Train.
By Road
Regular bus services connect Darjeeling with many cities in and around Darjeeling. Siliguri, Kurseong, Gangtok and Kalimpong are well connected by private vehicles also.

Kollam in Kerala

Kollam, one of the oldest sea ports on the Malabar Coast was a flourishing centre of trade and commerce and had trade links with the Arab, China, Greek, Roman and later on with Portuguese, Dutch and British. Early travelers mentioned it as the largest port in the world and its market as one of the finest in India.

Ashtamudi Lake: The scenic lake amidst red cliffs and swaying palms, stretches northwards from Kollam town. The huge lake is named ‘Ashtamudi’ as it branches off into 8 creeks. The eight hour trip between Kollam and Alappuzha is the longest and most enchanting experience on the back waters of Kerala. It also provides extensive facilities for retting coconut husks which makes the district a hub of coir industry. Chinese fishing nets add to the spectacular scenic beauty of the lake.

Kochupilamodu Beach: The model park at the beach is worth a visit.

Thirumullavaram Beach (6 kms. from Kollam): It is yet another attraction of Kollam.

Reaching there:
By Air
The nearest airport from Kollam is Thiruvananthapuram, which is 71 km away from Kollam.
By Rail
Kollam is connected by rail with several important cities of Kerala and India.
By Bus
Kollam is also connected through a well laid out network of roads making it accessible from anywhere in Kerala.

Mysore Palace in Karnataka

Mysore
Majestic Mysore, the city of palaces and parks is the ‘cultural capital’ of Karnataka. The historical town has legendary origins and its name is said to be derived from the word “Mahishasurana Ooru”, which means the town of Mahishasura.
Mysore Palace: This magnificent three storeyed palace in the heart of the town was built between 1897-1912 on the foundation of an old palace which was partially destroyed in a fire in 1897. The palace has splendid square towers at cardinal points, crowned with domes. The main attractions are-‘Durbar Hall’ with its ornate ceiling and sculpted pillars and the Kalyanamandapam (Marriage Pavilion), noted for its chandeliers, cast-iron pillars, Belgian stained glass arranged in peacock designs in the domed ceilings and glazed tiled flooring. The palace is also known for its rich collection of priceless articles like, a golden howdah (elephant seat), fine paintings and a 200 kg. gold throne encrusted with precious stones. About 97,500 electric bulbs light up the palace in the evenings on Sunday, Public Holidays and during the Dassara celebrations.

Reaching there:
By Air
The nearest airport to Mysore is Bangalore (139 km). All the domestic airlines in the country operate their flights to Bangalore from all the major cities in the country. Some international airlines too have flights to Bangalore. Bangalore is to have an international airport shortly.
By Train
Mysore is connected with a number of trains to Bangalore. The super fast luxury train the Shatabdi Express connects Mysore to Madras. The quickest and most comfortable way to reach Mysore is via Bangalore.
By Road
Mysore is 139kms to the south west of Bangalore. The state highway that connects these two cities is very well maintained. Traveling from Bangalore to Mysore by road is a pleasant experience and will take about 3hrs. The Karnataka Road Transport Corporation has excellent bus service to Mysore. There are ordinary buses, semi-luxury buses and luxury buses operated by the Government of Karnataka.

Murud-Janjira Fort in Maharashtra

The beautiful coastal town is famous for Janjira, an impregnable island-fortress, 5 kms. south of Murud & 165 kms. from Mumbai. It was built in 1140, by Siddi Johar and became the capital of Siddis during 16th century. The fort remained virtually invincible in its lifespan. The palace of the Nawab and the Janjira Caves are worth visiting.
Reaching there :
By Air
The nearest airport is Mumbai International Airport which is 165 km away from Murud Janjira. Mumbai Chatrapati Shivaji International airport is well connected to all major cities in India and connected to many cities in abroad.
By Rail
Roha (50 kms.) railway station on the Konkan line is the nearest one which is connected by rail to Mumbai. Murud Janjira is connected to all major railheads through Mumbai.
By Road
State owned buses connect nearest cities with Murud Janjira. Buses are available from Pune, Thane, Borivli, Mumbai central and Dadar.

Kanniyakumari in Tamil Nadu

Kanniyakumari the ‘lands end’ of India is one of the most popular tourist spots of the country. It nestles elegantly on the very tip of the Indian peninsula, at the confluence of the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. The town is at its best during the Chaitra Poornima (full moon day in April), when the Sun and Moon are face to face at the same horizon. Other full moon days are also special, when one can view the sunset and moon rise almost simultaneously.

Vivekananda Rock Memorial: The memorial built in 1970 on a rock in the sea, marks the spot where Swami Vivekananda, the great philosopher –guide, meditated at the end of 1892, before his departure to Chicago (USA), for participating in the World Religious Conference in 1893. It affords a fine view of the land’s end. Ferry services ply from the shore to the rock memorial at regular intervals.

Thiruvalluvar Statue: The 133 feet high statue of Tamil saint poet Thiruvalluvar is set on a rock amidst sea near Vivekananda Rock Memorial.
Reaching Kanyakumari:
By Air
Thiruvanathapuram (at a distance of 80 km) is the nearest airport to Kanyakumari. The airport has both domestic and international terminals. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Kanyakumari.
By Bus
There are regular bus services between Kanyakumari and Chennai (705km/16 hrs), Thiruvananthapuram (2.30 hrs), Rameswaram (410km/9 hrs), Madurai (245km/6 hr) and Nagercoil.
By Train
Kanyakumari is well-connected by rail to all the major cities in India.

Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand

The magnificent park established way back in 1936, is one of the best known sanctuaries of India. It is named after Jim Corbett, the famous hunter author and conservator. The park covers a large forested area of over 525 sq. kms., comprising of foot hills of Shivalik ranges and the Patlidun Valley with swiftly flowing river Ramganga. The varied topography thus provides home to rich and diverse wildlife. The dense jungles of the park are famous for the tigers of Kumaon. It is also a haven for the panther, wild boar, sloth bear, elephant, deer, python, cobra, crocodile and gharial etc. The river Ramganga is full of mahseer, trout and goonch fishes. The park is also an ‘ornithologist’s paradise’, as over 537 species of birds have been recorded here. Kaladhungi (80 kms.) is known for Corbett’s Museum, dedicated to the great hunter.

Reaching there:
By Air
Patanagar airport is the nearest airport to Corbett National Park. It is a domestic airport at a distance of nearly 130 km from Corbett National Park.
By Train
Ramnagar railway station is the nearest railhead which is about 50 km away. The station is well connected to many major cities in India.
By Bus
Corbett National Park bus station connects to all nearby cities by the public transport systems in Uttarakhand state. Deluxe and semi deluxe buses can be availed from Delhi to Corbett National park.

Jodhpur-Mehrangarh fort in Rajasthan

Jodhpur – A valiant sentinel in the desert, on the eastern fringe of the Thar desert was founded in 1459, by Rao Jodha, the chief of Rathore clan of Rajputs, who claimed descent from Rama, the epic hero of the Ramayana. A high stone wall nearly 10 kms. in length and eight gates once protected the city. Within, stands an imposing fort on a low range of sandstone hills, about 125m above the surrounding plains.
Mehrangarh fort: Magnificent Mehrangarh crowning a perpendicular precipice was built by Rao Jodha in 1459, when he shifted his capital from Mandore. It houses a palace intricately adorned with long carved panels and latticed windows exquisitely wrought from red sandstone. The apartments within have their own magic –the Moti Mhal (Pearl Palace), Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana with a rich collection of palanquins, howdas, royal cradles, miniature paintings of various schools, costumes, furniture and an impressive armoury. The display of cannons on the ramparts is among the rarest in India.
Reaching there:
By Air
The Jodhpur Airport is 4 or 5 km from the city center. Regular flight services connect the city with other major cities in and around Rajasthan. There are daily flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Udaipur and Jaipur.
By Train
Jodhpur is well connected by railway lines. Trains to Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata are easily available.
By Road
The main highway between Jodhpur and Jaisalmer is via Agoli and Pokaran. The highway is well connected with Agra, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Delhi, Jaipur, Jaisalmer and Udaipur by bus.

Howrah-Belur Math in West Bengal

Howrah-Belur Math: It is the international headquarters of the Ramkrishna Mission. Swami Vivekananda established the shrine in 1899, by placing the ashes of Sri Ramkrishna at this spot. The unique architecture of the shrine reflects the message of religious fraternity, as it represents a church, a temple and a mosque, when viewed from different angles. The Sri Ramkrishna museum was set up with the assistance of the National Council of Science Museum. It houses articles associated with Sri Ramdrishna, Ma Sarada and Swami Vivekananda.
Reaching there:
By Air
The nearest Airport is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport ( Dum Dum Airport). Distance of Airport to Belur Math is about 10 kms. You can easily travel from airport to Math by taxi or Bus.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Belur Math station. Local train departures from Howrah station to Belur Math station everyday.
By Road
Belur Math, Northern part of Howrah, is about 4 km from Howrah railway station. You can travel there by bus, auto or taxi. It takes 20-25 mins to get there and around 40 mins to return. All modes of transportation are easily accessible from adjacent to the Howrah railway station area/Howrah bus stand.

Sanchi-The Great Stupa (No. 1),No.2 & No.3 in Madhya Pradesh

Sanchi: Spectacular Sanchi is recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its archaeological and historical value. The Sanchi hill teems with stupas, monastries, temples and pillars and is the largest site of Buddhist remains in India. However, it is not directly connected with the life of Lord Buddha as other Buddhist pilgrim centres. The history of Sanchi dates back to Emperor Asoka’s reign in the 3rd century BC and continues upto the 11the century AD. It is one of the most revered centres of Buddhist art in the world. Its architectural forms and sculpture display the Jataka tales in cinematographic continuity. The Great Stupa (No. 1): The world renowned stupa was originally built by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka and is an icon of India’s cultural heritage. The present stupa is a superstructure over the original brick stupa and comprises a hemispherical dome. It measures 36.5 mts. in diameter and 16.4 mts. in height. Stupa No.2: The 2nd century BC. stupa lies on the edge of the Sanchi hill. Stupa No.3: This stupa was built during 150-140 BC. The relics of Sariputta and Mahamogallan, two of Buddhas chief disciples were found in the stupa. These relics are at present housed in the Sri Lankan Vihara here.

Reaching there:
By Air
The nearest airport is at Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh, is 45 kms away from the site. Bhopal is an important domestic airport in central India, which is served by several airlines.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is at Vidisha, approximately 10 km from Sanchi.
By Road
Sanchi is located close to important cities in Madhya Pradesh. It is connected with all nearby cities like Bhopal (45kms), Vidisha (10kms), Indore (230kms).

Mandu-Jahaz Mahal (Ship Palace) in Madhya Pradesh

Mandu , set picturesquely at the edge of the Vindhya range, overlooking the Narmada river was once known as Shadiabad, the ‘Citadel of Joy’. It was the pleasure resort of the rulers of Malwa and echoes with love tales of poet prince Baz Bahadur and Ran Rupmati.
Jahaz Mahal (Ship Palace): The 400 ft. long and 50 ft. wide double storey pleasure palace built between two lakes, resembles a ship. This remarkable edifice in stone is said to have been built by Sultan Ghiyas-ud-din Khilji for his large harem of 15,000 women.

Reaching there:
By Air
Mandu does not have an airport and the nearest airport is Indore Ahilyabai Holker airport. Mandu is about 100 km from the airport. Indore is a domestic terminal which is connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Jaipur and Ranchi. Delhi is the major international airport connecting to many major cities abroad.
By Train
Nearest railhead is Ratlam railway station, which is about 124 km away from Mandu. This station is well connected to the rest of the major cities in India and is an important junction in the western railways.
By Bus
Many cities in Madhya Pradesh to Mandu are connected by State owned buses. Many private bus services are available from major cities in India to Mandu. Regular deluxe and semi deluxe buses are available from Indore (100 km), Bhopal (277 km), Ratlam (124 km) and Ujjain.

Ajanta Caves in Maharashtra

Around Aurangabad
Ajanta (107 kms.)

Ajanta Caves: Ajanta is world renowned for the rock-cut Buddhist caves, dating from 2nd century BC to 5th century AD. There are about 30 caves nestling in a panoramic gorge amidst Sahyuadri ranges in the form of a gigantic horseshoe. This treasure house of art and architecture was discovered in 1819, by a group of British officers. Today, Ajanta has been designated as a ‘World Heritage Site’ by UNESCO. The caves were once the retreat of Buddhist monastic orders and comprises of Chaitya halls or shrines dedicated to Lord Buddha and Viharas or monasteries, used by monks for meditation and the study of Buddhist teachings. The frescoes in 5 caves and some of the sculptures are considered to be among the greatest achievements of Indian artists. The nearest convenient railhead for Ajanta is at Jalgaon (58 kms.).

Reaching There:
By Air
The closest airport is at Aurangabad, 107 kms away.
By Rail
The closest railhead to Ajanta is Jalgaon which is approximately and hour and a half away. It is possible to hire a car or take a bus from here to the caves.
By Road
Regular buses ply from Jalgaon and Aurangabad to Ajanta. Otherwise you can choose to hire a private taxi to take you around.

Lord Venkateswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh

Tirupati – Tirumala

This the sacred abode of Lord Venkateswara or Balaji is one of the oldest and richest Hindu pilgrim centers of the country. Tirupati, literally the ‘Lord of Lakshmi’ is the town and transport hub set in the foot hills of Tirumala. The sacred Tirumala hill in the Eastern Ghats has seven peaks, representing the seven headed serpent Adisesha, on whose coil Lord Vishnu sleeps.

Lord Venkateswara Temple : The majestic shrine of Lord Venkateswara nestling amidst the Tirumala Hill, About 650 meters above the town is one of the most popular Hindu temples in the world. It is visited by over 30,000 pilgrims a day and the number reaches up to 100,000 on festival days. The temple staff alone accounts to a number of about 17,000. The popularity of the temple can be judged by its annual income, which is over two billion rupees. Devotees offer money and precious articles etc. in the hundi or collection box placed at various sites in the temple. The entire sum is administered by the temple trust which ploughs this bulk of money back into hundreds of choultries and charities, such as schools, colleges, art academies, craft training centers and in the home of poor and orphans. The sacred temple finds mention in the ancient religious texts and was perhaps built during the 9th century. Several additions and renovations were later made under the patronage of Pallavas, Pandyas, Cholas, the Vijayanagar rulers and the Maharaja of Mysore. This masterpiece of Dravidian architecture has a huge outer courtyard or sampangi pradakshinam, which is dotted by several interesting mandapams. The glittering gold Vimanam, known as Ananda Vimanam rises protectively over the sanctum sanctorum, which enshrines the ‘swayambhu’ or naturally formed two meters high jet-black stone idol of Lord Venkateshwara. The magnificent idol depicts the Lord with four hands in a standing posture over a lotus and is adorned with exquisite jewelery. ‘Brahmotsavam’ (Sept. – Oct.) is the main temple festival celebrated in a grand way for nine days and catch the attention of a large number of devotees. Another attraction of the shrine is the 'Prasad' cooked in the temple kitchen. This mouth watering delicacy is of great value for the devotees. Many devotees also consider very auspicious to have their heads shaven on visiting the temple, as an act symbolic of renouncing their ego.

Reaching there:

By Air
Located at Renigunta, about 15 km from the city, Tirupati Airport has regular flights to and from Hyderabad, Bangalore and Chennai. One can hire taxis from the airport for reaching Tirupathi. Another major airport situated near the holy city is sited at Chennai, which has international connections too.
By Rail
Tirupati Railway Station has direct trains to and from Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, Visakhapatnam, Chennai, Madurai, Puri and Hyderabad. Stations at Renigunta (15 km) and Gudur (100 km) also serve as the major connections across the country. From Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam, there are overnight trains for Tirupati.
By Road
Almost every town and city of Andhra Pradesh is connected with Tirupathi by regular bus services. The town is linked by road to Ahobolam (272 km), Bangalore (280 km), Horsley Hill (145 km), Hyderabad (555 km), Kalahasti (36 km), Lepakshi (379 km), Chennai (140 km), Srisailam (436 km), Vijayawada (380 km) and Renigunta (55 km). Taxis are available throughout Andhra Pradesh and neighboring states to reach Tirupathi.