Tourist spots in NewDelhi

Some more Upadates on the way>>>
India Gate

Built as a memorial to commemorate the 70,000 India soldiers killed in World War I, India Gate was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens .

Rashtrapati Bhawan:

Formely the Viceregal Lodge, the building is the highlight of Lutyen's New Delhi and was completed in 1929 at a cost of 12,53,000 pound sterling. Located in an area of 130 hectares, the palace has 340 rooms.

Red Fort ( recently added to the list of UNESCO HERITAGE SITES )
So called because of the red stone with which it is built, the Red Fort is one of the most magnificent palaces in the world. India's history is also closely linked with this fort. It was frorth here ht the British deposed the last Mughal ruler, Bhadur Shah Zafar, marking the end of the three century long Mughal rule. It was also fromits ramparts that the first prime. Minister of India, pandit Jawharlal Nehru, announced to the nation that India was free form colonial rule.

Qutub Minar:

The origins of Qutab Minar are shrouded in controversy. Some believe it was erected as a tower of victory to signify the beginning of the Muslim rule in India. Others say it served as a minaret to the muezzins to call the faithful to prayer. No one can, however, dispute that the tower is not only one of the finest monuments in India, but also in the world.

Purana Quila

The fort is said to be constructed on the historic site of indraprastha (900BC) by Humayun and Sher Shah. Covering a circuit of about a mile, the walls of the fort have three gates and are surrounded by a mat fed by the river Yamuna.

Jantar Mantar

At first sight, the Jantar Mantar appears like a gallery of modern art. It is, however, an observatory. Sawai Jia Singh II of Jaipur (1699-1743), a keen astronomer and a noble in the Mughal court, was dissatisfied by the errors of brass and metal astronomical instruments.

Humayun's Tomb ( another monument on the list of UNESCO HERITAGE SITES )

The mughals brought with them a love for gardens, fountains and water. The first mature example of Mughal architecture in India, Humayun's Tomb was built by the emperor's grieving widow, Haji Begum, in 1565 AD.

Jama Masjid

Work on the Jama Masjid mosque was begun in 1650 by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan to complement his palace at the Red Fort. More than 5,000 workers toiled for six years to complete the largest mosque in India. Every Friday, the emperor and his retinue would travel in state from the fort to the mosque to attend the congressional prayers.

Safdarjung's Tomb

Representing the last phase of the Mughal style of architecture, Safdarjang's Tomb stands in the centre of an extensive garden.

Rajghat
The mortal remains of mahatma Gandhi were cremated on this spot on the west bank of the river Yamuna on the evening of January 31, 1948.

The mortal remains of mahatma Gandhi were cremated on this spot on the west bank of the river Yamuna on the evening of January 31, 1948.

Lakshmi Narayan Mandir

Built in 1938, the temple is an ideal introduction to some of the gods of the India pantheon. The temple contains a large number of idols and visitors can also watch priests performing ritualistic prayers.

Akshardham Temple

The Akshardham Temple in Delhi, is the latest tourist attractions in India. Situated on the banks of Yamuna river was inaugurated on November 7, 2005. The temple constructed under the patronage of the Bochasanvasi Aksharpurushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), spreads over an area of 100 acres. . The Akshardham temple is considered as one of the wonders of modern India.

Iteneraries from Gauhati, Assam

In my blog i wil try to assimillate all the relevant information that i have gathered from the net and other sources along with my experiences will travelling in assam. Tourism is the most neglected industry though there is a vast potential which can be harnessed to improve the living standards in this northeastern state rich in natural beauty.

Package Tours From Guwahati

Gauhati to Kaziranga :
Day : Every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday
Tariff: Adult - Rs 530 ( for Indians) , Rs 1120 ( for foreigners ) Child - Rs 370 ( for Indians ) , Rs 665 ( for foreigners )
Itinerary:
Day 1 : Departure from Guwahati at 9 am and overnight stay at Kaziranga Tourist Lodge or at Wild Grass resorts
Day 2 : Departure from Kaziranga and arrival at Guwahati

Local sightseeing in Guwahati
Day: Every Wednesday and Sunday
Tariff: Adult - Rs 70 ; Child - Rs 50
Itinerary: Tour starts from Tourist Lodge in Guwahati at 9 am and ends in the afternoon.

From Guwahati to Hajo, Sualkuchi and Madan Kamdev
Day: Every Sunday
Tariff: Adult - Rs 100 ; Child - Rs 80
Itinerary: Tour starts from Tourist Lodge, Guwahati at 9 am and ends in the evening.

From Guwahati to Shillong:
Day: Every Wednesday and Sunday
Tariff: Adult - Rs 175 ; Child - Rs 120
Itinerary: Tour starts from Tourist Lodge, Guwahati at 7 am and ends in the evening.

Guwahati to Tezpur - Bhalukpong:
Day: Every Sunday .
Tariff: Adult - Rs 520 ; Child - Rs 400 .
Itinerary:

Day 1 : Departure from Guwahati at 8:30 am. Arrive at Tezpur at 1:00 pm. After lunch, sightseeing in and around Tezpur. Halt at Tezpur Tourist Lodge.

Day 2 : Depart from Tezpur at 7:00 am and arrive at Bhalukpong at 9:00 am. Local sightseeing from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon. Depart for Guwahati at 1:00 pm and reach Guwahati at 9:00 pm.

From Guwahati to Haflong:

Day: Every Wednesday

Tariff: Adult - Rs 1000 ; Child - Rs 400

Itinerary:

Day 1 : Depart from Guwahati at 7:00 am and reach Haflong at 7:00 pm.Rest at the Hotel

Day 2 : Sightseeing in and around Haflong. Check into the hotel

Day 3 : Depart from Haflong at 7:00 am and reach Guwahati at 7:00 pm.

Tourist Offices

Guwahati Directorate of Tourism, Station Road, Guwahati - 781001 Tel : 547102

Guwahati Tourist Information Office,

Guwahati Airport Guwahati Tourist Information Office,

Guwahati Railway Station.

Siliguri Tourist Information Office, Siliguri.

Calcutta Tourist Information Office, Assam House, 8, Russel Street, Calcutta - 71 Tel : 298331-3

New Delhi Tourist Information Office, B-1, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, New Delhi - 110001 Tel : 345897 top

Network of Goverment of India Holiday Homes

The Central Government Holiday homes are available for touring officers/ MP's etc at the below mentioned location. The booking form is available at http.estates.nic.in

Name of the Stations	No. of rooms	Location	Allotting Authority
Amarkantak	10	Central Govt. Holiday Home, Amarkantak (MP)	Manager (Reservation) Madhya Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation, Janpath Hotel, Connought Place, New. Delhi.
Goa	03	Holiday Home for the Central Government Employees, Bambolim, Opposite Goa Medical College Complex, Panaji- Madgaon Road, Goa Tele : 0832-2458292(O)	Asstt. Director (Regions), Directorate of Estates, Nirman Bhawan, New Delhi-110011. Tel: 011-23062231 Fax : 011-2306-2816
Kanyakumari	22	Holiday Home for Central Government Employees Kovalam Road (near Light House), Kanyakumari	Executive Engineer, Madurai Central Divn-I, CPWD, Madurai-625020 Tel: 0452-2535940
Mysore	12	Holiday Home, CPWD Office Campus, T.Narasipur Road, Sidhartha Nagar, Mysore-570011 Tel: 0821-2473661	Executive Engineer, Mysore Central Division, CPWD, Nirman Bhavan, T.Narasipur Road, Sidhartha Nagar. Mysore-570011. Tel: 0821-2473649 ,Fax : 0821-2473539
Mussorrie	05	Southwood Cottage in the ITBP campus (near library Chowk, Mall Road, Next to Dove Cottage), Mussoorie. Tele: 0135-2632271	Asstt. Director (Regions), Directorate of Estates, Nirman Bhawan, New Delhi-110011. Tel: 011-23062231 Fax : 011-2306-2816
Nainital	13	Central Govt. Employees Holiday Home, Khurpatal (Nainital) .Tele : 05942-240330	Asstt. Director (Regions), Directorate of Estates, Nirman Bhawan, New Delhi-110011. Tel: 011-23062231 Fax : 011-2306-2816
Ooty	26	Holiday Home for Central Government Employees, Good Shed Road, Near Railway Station, Udagamandalam, Nilgiris, Tamilnadu	Dte. of Estates, Shastri Bhavan,26- Haddows Road, Chennai. Tel: 044-28277759 .Asstt. Estate Manager, Dte. of Estates, Shastri Bhavan,26- Haddows Road, Chennai. Tel: 044-28277759
Shimla	109	Mall, Shimla- 171001 Tel: 0177-2658121 Grand Hotel, The Mall, Shimla- 171001 Tel: 0177-2658121	Tel: 0177-2658121(Office) 0177-2652587(Reception)For VIP Suites (Mayo Block): Asstt. Director (Regions), Directorate of Estates, Nirman Bhawan, New Delhi- 110011. Tel: 011-23062231 Fax : 011-2306-2816 Asstt. Estate Manager, Grand Hotel, Shimla-171001, Tel: 0177-2658121 (Office) 0177-2652587(Reception)For VIP Suites (Mayo Block): Asstt. Director (Regions), Directorate of Estates, Nirman Bhawan, New Delhi- 110011. Tel: 011-23062231 Fax : 011-2306-2816

Bishnupur a Tentative UNESCO heritage site in West bengal

Bishnupur was founded by king Raghunath 1, of the Malla dynasty is famous for its terracotta temples. It flourished as the capital of the Mallas till the early 19th century. Since there is no stone in the area, the traditional building material was brick. The terracota temples of Bishnupur is an example of the exquisite craftsmanship of the terracotta artisans of that age. The potters here derive their inspiration from the glorious history of kings, soldiers and wars.
Bishnupur is also known for silk (tussar) and the Baluchari Sarees. Woven on unusual 'punch-card' looms, these sarees have episodes from the Mahabharata woven into the border and pallu.

How to go:
It is located in Bankura district, 152km north-west from Kolkata. Bishnupur can be reached by both train and bus.
Where to stay: There are not much accomodation options so one can stay at the WestBengal Government, Tourism department operated hotel.
Bishnupur WB tourism hotel rates

P.O. - Bishnupur, Dist.: Bankura, Pin-722122 Phone-(03244) 252013 Mobile : 9732100950
A/C Dlx. Double bedded (South Block)	2	650/-	Tariff on EP basis, Restaurant , Bar & Conference Hall. Credit Cards are accepted Day Rate: Discount @40% on rooms for a period of 4 hours
A/C Standard Double bedded (South Block)	6	600/-
AC Double bedded (West Block FF)	2	650/-
Non-A/C 4 bedded Family Room (FF)	1	600/-
Non-AC Dlx. Double bedded (South Block)	2	350/-
Non-AC Double bedded (West Block GF)	5	350/-
Non-AC Double bedded (West Block FF)	4	400/-
Non-AC Double bedded (West Block 2nd SF)	4	300/-
Dormitory 4 bedded (South Block)/bed	1	100/- bed

Our Trip to rajasthan

We travelled to Rajasthan a few years back, but the experience is still vivid in my mind. This was our first outing with our kid, a 2yrs old bundle of energy. We had had to do some minute planning keeping her in mind. We tried to travel mostly by night trains as in Rajasthan the cities of Tourist interest are connected by overnight trains. You can check the indian railway site for the detailed planning to suit personal needs.

The itinerary was roughly like this:

The itinerary
Day	Start	Destination	Remarks
1st Day	Mumbai	Jodhpur	Caught the Train from Mumbai for Jodhpur , Reached Jodhpur early in the morning.
2nd Day	Jodhpur	Jaisalmer	Checked into a hotel and went for sight seeing. Caught the night train for Jaisalmer. Reached Jaisalmer in the wee hours at around 4 o'clock.
5th Day	Jaisalmer	jaipur	Stayed in Jaisalmer for 3 days. Left for Jaipur by train on the 5th afternoon.Reached Jaipur on the next day and checked into a hotel. Went for Sight seeing.
8th Day	Jaipur	Ajmer	Stayed 2 nights in Jaipur . On the 8th day Caught a RTDC bus to Ajmer. 1 night stay at Ajmer. To visit Pushkar.
9th Day	Ajmer	Udaipur	Caught the night train to Udaipur reaching udaipur early in the morning. 2 nights in Udaipur.
12th Day	Udaipur	Mt Abu	RTDC bus from Udaipur to Mont Abu
14th day	Mt Abu	Mumbai	2 nights in Mt Abu to visit the Dilwara temple of Mt Abu

Places to see:

In Jodhpur :

Mehrangarh Fort: The Rathore ruler Rao Jodha decided to build a new capital as the fort in Mandore, already over a thousand years old, was no longer considered strong and safe. In doing so he bequeathed to India one of her greatest forts and most beautiful cities. Mehrangarh has never been taken in a siege. Invincible and mighty as it is , it inspires awe, admiration, envy and fear in friend and foe alike. Some hotels provide very nice views from the rooftop restaurants eg Govind Hotel, which gets a mention even in lonely planet for its fantastic rooftop views and helpful owner.

The Umaid Bhavan Palace Hotel:

The Important Travel information are on the following links.............

http://www.rsrtc.org/time_table.asp

List Of UNESCO World Heritage sites in Madhya Pradesh

Buddhist Monastery at Sanchi.
The 'Great Stupa' at Sanchi was originally built by the emperor Ashoka the Great, in the third century BC. Its nucleus was a simple hemispherical brick structure built over the relics of the Buddha; it was vandalized by Pushyamitra Sunga but was restored by his Son Agnimitra who rebuilt it to twice its size. There are 4 Toranas or gateways which are exquisite ornamental carvings, the Toranas depict love, peace, trust, and courage.
Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka.
Situated 46 Kms from Bhopal, The Bhimbetka rock shelters are an archaeological site World Heritage Site, located in Raisen District in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. The paintings in over 500 caves depict the life of the pre-historic cave-dwellers. The Bhimbetka shelters exhibit the earliest traces of human life in India The rocks paintings are approximately 9,000 years old are among the worlds oldest.The colors have remained intact for many centuries due to the chemical reaction resulting from the oxide present on the surface of the rocks.
Group of Monuments at Khajuraho:
One thousand years ago, under patronage of the Chandela kings of Central India, 85 temples came up on one site, near the village of Khajuraho. The Chandelas later shifted their capital to Mahoba but Khajuraho remained the cultural and the religious capital of the Chandelas The amazingly short span of 100 years saw the completion of all the temples. Only 22 of the original 85 have survived. Some of the temples are Jain temples but the rest are dedicated to Hindu deities.
The temples follow the Shikhar form of Architecture predominant in The Northern India. Each contains an entrance, a hall, a vestibule and a sanctum The secondary shikharas (spires) cluster to create an appropriate base for the main shikhara over the sanctum.The Khajuraho temples do not contain erotic art inside the temple or near the deities but some external carvings bear erotic art. Against the popular belief , only 10% of the sculptures contain sexual themes and reportedly do not show deities, they show sexual activities between people. The rest depict the everyday life of the common Indian of the time when the carvings were made, and of various activities of other beings.

Assam Trip plan

General InformationTravelling to Assam , located the north-east corner of India and surrounded by Bhutan and Arunachal Pradesh on the north, Nagaland and Manipur on the east, Meghalaya and Mizoram on the south and Bangladesh, Tripura and West Bengal on the west is a nature lovers delight. The state is dominated by the river Brahamputra, whose lush green 700 kilometre valley is sandwiched between the Himalayan foothills to the north, and the hills and plateau of Meghalaya to the south.
Assam is a land of contrasts and a paradise for nature lovers. It has the UNESCO heritage site of Kaziranga and Manas wild life Santuaries , one of the few successful of wild life santuaries wordwide. Kaziranga is worth a visit to see the one horned asiatic rhinoes.
Important tourist centres of the state around Guwahati are Kamakhya Temple, Umananda (Peacock Island), Navagraha (Temple of nine planets), Gandhi Mandap, State Zoo, State Museum, Sukreswar Temple, Geeta Mandir, Madan-Kamdev Temple and Saraighat Bridge.
In the rest of the state the places of tourist interest are Kaziranga park (famous for one horned rhinos), Sib Sagar (Shiv Temple), Majuli (largest river island in the world), Chandubi lake, Batadrava (Birth place of great Vaishnav Saint Sankardev), and Saulkuchi (renowned for its silk industry).
The best time to visit the state is from October to April.
Guwahati
Guwahati - said to be the legendary Pragjyotishpur or City of Eastern Light .Situated on the bank of the mighty river Brahmaputra, is the gateway to north eastern India and is an important commercial centre. The name Guwahati is a combination of two words: Guwa meaning areca nut and Hat meaning market.The places to shop for handicrafts and handloom items include the State Government's department store, Pragjyotika at Ambari as well as several private shops in Pan Bazar and Fancy Bazar, which are two of the main commercial markets.Places to seeKamakhya Temple
The greatest attraction of Guwahati is the Kamakhya Temple, perched on the Nilachal hill, where Goddess Kamakhya is worshipped.The temple commands a fabulous view of the city and the mighty Brahmaputra. The ponds here are the home of some giant turtles.Nabagraha TempleNambagraha means nine planets.It is thus a temple of nine planets and is believed to be the ancient seat of the study of astronomy. It is just 3 km from the railway station.
Umananda Temple
It is a temple of Lord Shiva ,in the midst of river Brahmaputra, on the island of Umananda. The temple can be reached by crossing the river via country boats plying from Kachari Ghat. The place resembles a beehive during Shiva Ratri when pilgrims from all over flock to the island packed in boats.
Hajo
Hajo is a sacred place for Hindus, Muslims and Buddhists.This place is to the (25 km )west of Guwahati and is the site of the Pua-Mecca mosque, established by an Iraqi prince-turned-preacher, who travelled all the way to Assam in the 12th century to spread the Prophet's teachings.The town also boasts of the Hayagriba Madhava Temple, accessible via a long stone stairway. At the foot of the stairway is a large pond inhabited by one of Hajo's eminent residents: a giant turtle. Hajo is also renowned for its bell metal work.
The State Museum is another attraction of the city ,with exhibits dating back to the 7th century AD, ranging from stone sculptures to bronzes.
Pabitora
A small wildlife sanctuary, 60 km from Guwahati. Rhino and various species of deer abound here.
Chandubi
A natural lagoon and a fine picnic spot, 64 km from Guwahati. The lake is a perfect holiday resort, with ample fishing and rowing opportunities.
Madan Kamdev
About 35 km from Guwahati, this place is famous for its impressive archaeological ruins.
Baisisthashram
It is the hermitage of sage Basistha and also an ideal picnic spot. It is just 12 km from the railway station.
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary
Situated on the banks of river Manas, and 176 km from Guwahati, this sanctuary is the only 'tiger project' of its kind in Assam. Manas has its own peculiar species of fauna, the rarest of which are the hispid hare and the pigmy hog. Commonly seen animals are the rhino, elephant, water buffalo and the swamp deer. Hundreds of birds migrate to Manas during winter.
How to get there
Guwahati is well connected by air and rail with New Delhi and Calcutta.

Kaziranga National ParkKaziranga National Park lies on the south bank of the Brahmaputra and its boundary for the most part follows the Mora Diphlu river and runs parallel to National Highway No. 37. It covers an area of 688 sq. kilometres. The Park was first established in 1908, as a reserve forest with only about a dozen rhinos and was declared a National Park in 1974.
Kaziranga is famous for the great One-Horned Rhino. Tigers which are natural enemies of rhinos are also present in sizable numbers in this area. Other attractions of this national park include the wild buffalo, magnificent swamp deer, hog deer, wild boar, Hoolok gibbon, capped langur and ratel (badger).
A wide variety of snakes including the rock python and the monitor lizard are also found here. Amongst the birds, the crested serpent eagle is common while palla's fishing eagle and gray headed fishing eagle are frequently seen. Others include the Great Adjutant Stork, crane, Bengal floricab, bar-headed goose, whistling teal, and pelican.
Mihimukh is the starting area for the park and elephants can be hired from here to enter the sanctuary. Jeep safaris and early morning elephant rides can be arranged for at the Tourist Centre here.
How to Get There
Catch a Flight or train to Jorhat (94 kilometres) and Guwahati (220 kilometres) from the park. Nearest town is Bokaghat, 22 kilometre from the park.
When to visit
November to March
Where to stay
Forest rest houses and bungalows are available in the park area. Kaziranga Forest Lodge is also available with air conditioned rooms, bar, restaurant and other facilities.
Contact
Director, Kaziranga National Park, PO Bokaghat, District Jorhat, Assam.

Sibsagar
Sibsagar was the capital of the mighty Ahoms, who ruled Assam for more than six hundred years before the advent of the British. The town, which literally means 'the ocean of Lord Shiva', is strewn with the tell-tale ruins of a powerful empire. The most remarkable landmark of the town is the 200 year old Sibsagar tank. On its banks are three significant temples - Shivadol, Vishnudol and Devidol. Modern Sibsagar is a fast developing urban settlement. It is the headquarters of the district Sibsagar, a leading tea and oil producing centre.

Places to seeTalatal Ghar
About 6 km from Sibsagar is an immense seven storeyed palace, three of which are below the ground level - known as Talatal Ghar - and the rest of the storeys above. There are two secret tunnels here.
Joysagar, believed to be the largest man-made lake in India, sprawls over 318 acres on the edge of Sibsagar town. Another highlight is the Ahom Museum on the bank of the Sibsagar, which houses artifacts of the Ahom rulers, which include clothes, swords, manuscripts, goblets and platters.
Rang Ghar
The Rang Ghar is a two storeyed oval - shaped pavilion, from which Ahom royalties used to watch elephant fights and other sporting events. It was built by king Pramatta Singha ( 1744 - 1751 ).
Gargaon PalaceGargaon, the erstwhile capital of the Ahoms, lies 13 km east of Sibsagar. The old palace built in 1540 was destroyed, and the present seven-storeyed palace, known as Kareng Ghar, was rebuilt around 1762, by king Rajeshwar Singha.
Jaysagar Tank and Temples
The Jaysagar tank was built by king Rudra Singha in 1967. On its bank are three highly revered temples - Joydol, Shivdol and Devidol.
Gaurisagar Tank and Temples
The Gaurisagar tank was built by queen Phuleshwari Devi. Standing on its bank are three temples - Vishnudol, Shivdol and Devidol.
Rudrasagar Tank and Temples
The Rudrasagar tank was built by king Lakshmi Singha in 1773. It is 8 km from Sibsagar.
Namdang Stone Bridge
The Namdang bridge, cut out from a single solid rock over the Namdang river, was constructed by king Rudra Singha in 1703. Today, the National Highway 37, passes over this bridge.
Charaideo
Another old capital of the Ahom kings, Charaideo, built by the founder of the Ahom dynasty, Sukapha lies 28 km east of Sibsagar. It is famous for the 'maidans' or burial vaults of the members of the royalty.
Ajan Pir Dargah Sarif
At Saraguri Chapori ( 22 km from Sibsagar ) stands Ajan Pir Dargah Sarif. Ajan Pir was the first Muslim saint to compose 'Zikir' in Assamese language. On the day of the 'Urs', thousands of devotees gather here, to pay homage to this great Muslim reformer.
A day trip from Sibsagar takes one to Dibrugarh and Jorhat. Dibrugarh happens to be one of the major tea producing centres in the Indian sub-continent. Jorhat, another major tea producing area, located on the edge of the Brahmaputra, southwest of Sibsagar, is a fine cultural centre. Majuli, the world's largest inhabited riverine island, revered for its satras or Vaishnavite monasteries lies near Jorhat. These satras are historically significant for Assam, as they were established by Sankardeva, the pioneer of Vaishnavite revivalism, in the 16th century. Majuli is populated primarily by the Mishing tribe, among the only tribal riverine community in the Assam valley, which descended from the hills of Arunachal Pradesh years ago. Their exquisite handlooms are renowned all over, especially the brilliant Mirizen shawls and blankets.
How to get thereThe nearest airport, Jorhat, is only 55 km away. The nearest railhead, Simaluguri, is 16 km away. Bus services are available from Guwahati and other important towns.
Accomodation
Tourist Lodge, Assam Tourism ; Circuit House and Dak Bungalow on the bank of Sibsagar tank.

Tezpur

Tezpur was known as Sonitpur in the olden days and is a city steeped in mythology, legend and folklore. Tezpur or the 'city of blood' reminds one of the romantic legend of Usha and Anirudha. The ruins of Agnigarh, where this immortal romance blossomed, still bear silent testimony to this poignant legend.
The legend revolves around Banasura, the great Asura king (devotee of Shiva), his beautiful daughter Usha and her friend Chitralekha. The ancient Sonitpur was the capital of the Asura dynasty. The princess saw a handsome prince in her dreams and fell in love with him.Chitralekha, a talented artist, not only painted his portrait from Usha's description but recognised him to be Aniruddha,the grandson of Lord Krishna and ruler of Dwarka. Using her magical powers, Chitralekha spirited Aniruddha away to the princess' boudoir where the two married each other according to Gandharva rites, without the knowledge of the king. When Banasura learnt of the clandestine romance, he imprisoned Aniruddha, which led to the arrival of Lord Krishna to Sonitpur to rescue his grandson. A fierce battle followed and the entire city was drenched in human blood, hence the name Sonitpur. In the battle of Hari (Lord Krishna) and Hara (Lord Shiva in the form of Banasura), Bana was defeated and the lovers were united forever.
Situated on the banks of river Brahmaputra, this town known for its natural beauty and fascinating archaeological ruins, is the headquarters of district Sonitpur. Undulating green valleys surrounded by the lofty hills and snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, and lush tea gardens render Tezpur a tourist's delight.
In 1942, for the first time in entire British India, the tricolour was hoisted in the police station at Gahpur, a tiny mofussil town under Sonitpur district. Fourteen years old Kanaklata braved British bullets and died holding the national flag aloft.
Places to see

The Hazara Pukhuri
It is a large tank which preserves the name of Hazara Varman in Tezpur. It was excavated in the early part of the 19th century. This is the third largest tank in the area sprawled over 70 acres.
Bamuni Hills
The ruins of Bamuni Hills are famous for their exemplary artistic finesse. The sculptural remains date back to the ninth and tenth century A.D. The Bhairavi and Mahabhairab (where king Bana worshipped Mahabhairab, an incarnation of Shiva) temples and the twin tanks of Bar Pukhuri and Padum Pukhuri are the other architectural attractions of Tezpur.
Cole Park
It is, undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful places in Tezpur. Established by a British Deputy Commissioner, Mr. Cole, the park has two massive ornamented stone pillars, and the sculptural remnants of the famous Bamuni Hills.
Agnigarh
This is the site of the legendary romance of princess Usha (the only daughter of king Bana) and Anirudha. Usha was imprisoned inside the palace which was surrounded by a wall of fire. The present day Agnigarh, now only a hillock facing the Brahmaputra, provides a panoramic view of the great river and Tezpur.
Da Parbatia
The ruins of the door frame of the Da Parbatia temple, a few kilometres away from Tezpur, is perhaps the finest and oldest specimen of sculptural art in Assam. Its carving is characteristic of the early Gupta school of sculpture.
Eco Camp is situated about 50 kms from Tezpur, off the road to Arunachal Pradesh, near the Jia Bhoroli river .It is a unique experiment by the Assam Anglers' Association and the state's Forest Department. The Camp organises exciting white river rafting against the divine backdrop of lush forests and snow-capped mountains. Tourists can try their hand at casting for the elusive and endangered golden Mahseer fish, a denizen of the waters. This is part of an ecological campaign to save the mahseer - so part of the river is protected and the fish are caught and then released in a bid to stabilise their dwindling numbers.

Nameri National Park

Orang Wildlife Sanctuary

This sanctuary sprawled over an area of 72 sq. km, is only 65 km from Tezpur. The animals which this area includes, are the one-horned rhinoceros, buffalo, leopard, sambhar, barking deer and tiger.

Bhalukpung

Bhalukpung,60 km from Tezpur,on the road to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, is a charming picnic and angling spot. Other attractions of Bhalukpung are a hot spring and a huge orchid garden.

Bhomoraguri

It is a mammoth stone inscription made by the Ahom General Kalia Bhomora Phukan, who planned to construct a bridge over Brahmaputra. Almost two centuries later, a bridge at the same site now stands completed. The 3.05 km bridge, named after the great Ahom general, connects Nagaon district with Tezpur.
Accomodation :
Assam Tourism Department has a well - furnished tourist lodge with modern amenities. Circuit House, Dak Bungalow and a number of other hotels with reasonable tariff offer comfortable accomodation.
Contact :The Tourist Information Officer, Tezpur, Sonitpur District.

Manas Wildlife Sanctury

Formerly known as North Kamrup, Manas, in Assam, was declared a sanctuary in 1928. In 1985 it was given the status of World Heritage Site. The park encloses two rivers, the Manas and its tributary the Hakua, along the Assam-Bhutan border. The protected area extends into the Bhutan foothills.
Giant hornbills
Manas houses 19 of India's most endangered animal species.It homes the rare golden langur and a sizeable tiger population. Its wetlands are essential for the survival of the fast-vanishing hispid hare and pygmy hog. The species of the animal kingdom to be found here include the rhino, wild buffalos, elephants, gaur, swamp deer, capped langur and clouded leopard. The park in the eastern range is home to the chital and habitat of the sambar deer, also boasts a rich and diverse avian population. The main highlight is the giant hornbill, two subspecies of which, the pied and grey varieties, are to be found here.
When to visit
The best time to visit is November to March.
How to get thereCatch a flight to Guwahati, the nearest airport at 176 kms. The nearest town and rail-head is Barpeta Road, 41 kms away.
Within the Park, riding elephants and boats on the rivers are available for transport.
Where to stay
Tourist lodge and forest bungalows at Mothanguri are the means of accomodation available.
Contact :Field Director ,Project Tiger, ,PO Barpeta Road .District Barpeta ,Assam, 781315


Near the Jia Bhoroli river, the Nameri National Park spreads over from Assam to Aruachal Pradesh. As in Kaziranga, the best way to travel within the Park is atop elephants. There are no roads inside the park. The park is home to the Mithun or Indian bison and the rare White Winged Wood Duck, among the most endangered avian species in the world.

The Darjeeling Hill Railway

The railways built in the mountainous regions of India are collectively known as the Mountain railways of India. Four of these railways are running in 2007:
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
Siliguri situated at the base of the Himalayas is connected to Darjeeling Hill Cart Road on which "Tonga services" (carriage services)used to be available . Franklin Prestage of Eastern Bengal Railway Company proposed laying a train line Siliguri to Darjeeling which was accepted following a positive report of a committee formed by Sir Ashley Eden. Gillander Arbuthnot & Co. constructed the railway and the Siliguri to Kurseong stretch was opened on 23 August 1880, while the line up to Darjeeling was opened on 4 July 1881. Several engineering adjustments were made while construction of the railway line in order to ease the gradient of the rails. DHR continued to improve with new extension lines.Recently DHR is facing competition from bus services that operates on the Hill Cart Road, and takes less time than the railway to reach Darjeeling. During World War 2, DHR played a vital role transporting military personnel and supplies to the numerous camps around Ghum and Darjeeling.

After the independence of India, DHR became a part of Indian Railways, and became a part of the Northeast Frontier Railway zone in 1958. The line was later realigned at Siliguri and extended by to New Jalpaiguri (NJP). DHR was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999. It is only the second railway to be honoured, the first one being Semmering Railway of Austria in 1998.
· Nilgiri Mountain Railway : This is the only cogwheel railway line in india and runs on steam engines.
· Kalka-Shimla Railway
· Matheran Hill Railway
The collective designation by the Indian government is an attempt to nominate a representative example of its historic railways to UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was recognized in 1999, while the Nilgiri Mountain Railway was added as an extension to the site in 2005. They were recognized for being outstanding examples of bold, ingenious engineering solutions for the problem of establishing an effective rail link through a rugged, mountainous terrain.
Both the Kalka-Shimla Railway and the Matheran Hill Railway are on the tentative nomination list for that site.

Kaziranga Travel data

The Kaziranga National Park was declared a Wildlife sanctuary in 1950 and accorded the status of a National Park in 1974. It was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1985.  The Kaziranga National Park  is Situated in Jorhat Nawgaon district, it extends over an area of 430 sq.km and is bounded by the Mikir Hills on the South and Brahmaputra river on the north. he park is divided into central,eastern and western sectors consists of semi- evergreen forested highlands,rivulets, marshes and extensive plains covered with tall elephant grass up to 6 metres high.
The park is famous for Indian one horned rhinoceros which can reach a height of over two metres and weigh more than two tonnes. The area was declared a game reserve in 1908 to save the one-horned rhino. The total number of rhinoceros in the park totals more than thousand which is 70 percent of the total population of this species in the country. A single horn of the rhino is worth exorbitant amounts of money. ( US $40,000 in 1995).
The park also has elephants,swamp or wild buffalo (Over 70% of the world population), swamp deer, hog deer,barking deer, sambar/ Hoolock gibbon, pythons, civet cat, wild boar and tigers.There is a rich variety of fresh water fowls, over 450 species of woodland and grassland birds of which 18 species are globally threatened. Birds like the egrets, pond herons, river tern, black necked storks, pelican, partridges,Bengal florican stork, pied horn bill, fishing eagle are found in abundance. Theriver here, has the gharial (fish eating crocodile) and dolphins.
March - April is best for animal sightings. Trained elephants are available as mounts for seeing the rhinos at close range. Elephant rides which last around one hour, should be booked the previous evening at the park administrative Centre in Kohora.
Elephant rides between 0500 - 0600, 0630 - 0730 and 1530 -1630.;
Jeep drives are also available.The rides at dawn are best to see the animals.There are three road routes inside the park open from 0800 - 1100 and 1400 - 1630.

• Kazi ranga or central range - Kohora, Daglang, Foliomari;
  
• Western range (Best to see rhinos and buffaloes) - Baguri, Monabeel, Bimoli, Kanchanjuri.
  
• Eastern range (30km from Kohora best to see birds) - Agortoli, Sohola, Rangamatia. The observation towers are situated at Sohola, Mihimukh, Kathpara, Foliamari and Harmoti.

Other attractions here are the coffee and rubber plantations of the nearby Karbi Anglong and the tea gardens of Hatikhuli, Methoni, Difalu, Behora,and Borchapori.
Where to stay
The park has a wide range of accommodation including rest houses, dormitory and lodges maintained by the forest department and the ITDC. There are private resorts also.

• Bonani Lodge (ph:03776- 62444)
• Arayan Lodge(ph:03776- 62423)
  
• Kunjaban Lodge (ph:
  037626-62444, 62423)
  
• Bonoshree Lodge - budget
  
• Wild Grass Resort (ph: 03776-,62001, 62085)Email : wildgrss@gw1.net.in
  
• Shangrila River Cruise in Guwahati (ph: 0361-546210);Email :bonee2@sancharnet.in

How to get there:

Air:The nearest airports are at Jorhat, 97-km and Guwahati,
217-km away from the park.
Rail: The nearest railhead is Furkating, situated 75-km away from the park and Jorhat.
Road: The main gate for Kaziranga, at Kohora is on the National Highway 37. ASTC and private buses stop here on their way to and from Guwahati, Tezpur and Upper Assam; some private buses retain a seat quota for Kaziranga passengers. The 4hr drive from Guwahati along the Brahmaputra south bank on the NH37 passes Dispur, Nowgong and Bagjan to the park entrances at Kohora and Baguri.

For ConductedTours: There are conducted tours available to the park, arranged by Assam Tourism Offices in Guwahati (217km) and Jorhat (97km).

• Tourist Information Officer,
  Station Road, Guwahati,
  Assam - 781001
  
• Director, Kaziranga National Park,
  P.O Bokakhat, District. Jorhat,
  Assam (India) - 785612
  Phone : 03776-68095, 68086
  
• Reservation Authority:Joint Director of Tourism, Kaziranga,
  P.O Kaziranga National Park,
  District Jorhat, Assam - 785612
  phone : 037626-62444

The prigrimage Trail ( Char Dham)

Travelling to the Kedarnath temple in the himalayas form the first leg of the Do dham yatra. Himalayas ( Him- Snow + Alaya- home) has long been revered as the mystical abode of Gods. The snow clad mountains and the green valleys with gushing rivers have a magnetic pull that have drawn Tourists and pilgrims alike. Tucked away in the four riverine valleys are the Char Dham or the four holy pilgrimages : Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath.
Uttranchal has a multitude of other famous temples like Mansa Devi, Chandi devi, Dhari Devi, Rudranath & Tungnath which is two of the Panch ( Five) kedars or Shivas abode.
I had long been planning to do the trip but could still plan only a do dham trip covering Kedarnath and Badrinath. If you want to make this trip forget the luxury of hotels as it is a pilgrimage trail dotted with lot of Dharamshalas which will provide clean spartan accomodation and simple food.
So I left the dust and grime of Mumbai for Delhi which was hotter and murkier. Then caught a train from Delhi to Haridwar from Delhi, the Shatabdi express and stayed at the Bharat Sevashram which I had prebooked from Bombay. The ashram is very clean and has lot of rooms in a four storey building with four wings surrounding the central courtyard which houses the prayer hall. Canteen facilities available with prior booking, only veg stuff. Place is very cheap so do not expect much. Booking for Gaurikund and kedarnath can be done for the ashram (Bharat sevashram) from here. Do necessary homework on the net to get better deals. Many operators are available from Rishikesh who give cheaper rates for a six day car tour.

The Trip from Delhi to Badrinath and Back
Day 1	Delhi – Rishikesh:
Day 2	Departure from New Delhi for Rishikesh. Enroute visit Haridwar by road. (225 kms / 5 hrs). Upon arrival at Rishikesh, check in at your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the city on your own.Dinner & Overnight at The Tapovan Resort / SimilarDay 02- Rishikesh -Guptakashi (194 kms, 6-8 hrs )Leave from Haridwar for Guptakashi after breakfast. Lunch en route in Srinagar. Arrive and check in to the Char Dham Camp Guptakashi and relax. Dinner at the camp resort. Overnight at Guptakashi.
Day 3	Guptakashi-Kedarnath (Drive 32 kms, trek 14 kms )After breakfast, pick up some packed lunch and leave for Gaurikund (a 32 kms drive -one way). On arrival start your journey on the tough trek ahead. Stop for lunch en route and continue after that to arrive by late afternoon. On arrival check in at Punjab Sind Awas/ Bikaner House or any Dharamshala . After freshening up, perform Pooja and obtain Darshan at Shri Kedarnathji. In the evening visit Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi behind the temple. Dinner and overnight at the ashram in Kedarnath.
Day 4	Kedarnath -Guptakashi (Trek 14 kms, drive 32 kms)After breakfast, start you journey back to Gaurikund and on arrival leave for Guptakashi by road to reach the Char Dham Camp by evening. Relax with Ayurvedic Massage. Dinner at the camp resort. Overnight at Guptakashi.
Day 5	Guptakashi -Badrinath (215 kms 7-8 hrs): After breakfast leave for Joshimath via Chopta, one of the most beautiful sites on the whole trip. Enjoy the beautiful drive through the thick forest. Lunch at Joshimath. Arrive at Badrinath .Check in at Hotel. Day Free at Leisure .Dinner and overnight Hotel Naryan Palace
Day 6	Badrinath: Early morning holy Darshan Breakfast at Hotel . Afternoon spend timevisiting Mana village- the last village before the Tibetan border. Come backto the Hotesl for dinner and overnight stay
Day 7	Badrinath - Rishikesh 274 kms (Drive 9-10 hrs)After breakfast leave for Haridwar and on the way stop for lunch atSrinagar. Continue, and if time permits, visit Devprayag (The confluence of rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi, to become the Ganga). Reach Haridwar in the evening to check in to Hotel Tapovan Resort or similar .
Day 8	Rishikesh – Delhi: Depart from Rishikesh for Delhi. Arrive and transfer to Railway station / Airport

Accomodation for Touring Sunderbans

Some of the rates of hotels of West Bengal Toutism Corportaion India, which can be used for touring Sunderbans.

Type of Rooms	No of Rooms	Tariff Per day	Facilities Available
Bakkhali Tourist Lodge PO. Laxmipur-Prabartak , Dist South 24 Parganas, PIN-743357, Ph:+91 3210 225260 , Mobile : 9732510150
A/C Standard Double Bedded	2	850/-
Non A/C Standard Double Bedded	10	475/-	Tariff on EP basis , Restaurant Bar, Breakfast Complementary, Credit Cards Accepted, OFF season July, August , September Disount-15%
Non A/C Cottage ( 3 Bedded)	01	675/-
8 Bedded Dormitory ( CB)	03	100 per bed
Bishnupur Tourist Lodge , PO: Bishnupur, Dist Bankura, PIN:722122, Ph : +91 3244 252013 , +91 9732100950
A/C Deluxe Double Bedded ( South Block)	02	650/-	Tariff on EP basis , Restaurant Bar and Conferance hall, Credit Cards Accepted, Day Rate : 40% discount on rooms for a period of 4 hours.
A/C Standard Double Bedded ( South Block)	06	600/-
A/C Double Bedded	02	650/-
Non A/C 4 bedded Bedded family room ( FF)	01	600/-
Non A/C Deluxe Double Bedded ( South Block)	02	350/-
Non A/C Double Bedded ( West Block GF)	05	350/-
Non A/C Double Bedded ( West Block FF)	04	00/-
Non A/C Double Bedded ( West Block 2nd SF)	04	300/-
Dormitory - 4 bedded (South Block)/ bed	01	100 / bed
SajneKhali Tourist Lodge, Sunderbans, PO : Pakhiralaya, PS Gosaba, PIN-743379 Ph:+91 3218 214960, Mobile :9732509925.
Non A/C Standard Double Bedded ( South Block)	15	700/-	Tariff On MAP basis
Non A/C Standard Double Bedded ( East Block)	14	700/-
Dormitory (15 bedded)/ camp Cot	01	220 /- per bed

WestBengal Tourism Sunderban Package Tour:

Itinerary For 1 night and 2 day Tour rates from Rs 2850 - 1350 / person: 1st Day
0800 AM	Assemble at Tourism Center, 3/2 , BBD bag( Esat), Kolkata-700001
0830 AM	Depart Kolkata by Bus for Sonakhali
1130 AM	Arrive Sonakhali, Walk for 10 minutes for transfer to M.V Chitralekha or M.V. Sarbajaya, M.V Madhukar by mechanized boat
1200 PM	Dep Sonkhali, Visit Sudhanyakhali & SajneKhali Watch towers. Night Halt on Board at M.V Chitralekha/ Sarbajaya / Madhukar
2nd Day
0530 AM	Depart Place of Night halt
0900 AM	Arrive Dobanki, Visit watch Tower
1000 AM	Depart Dobanki
1330 PM	Arrive DSonakhali, Transfer to Jetty, Bus will be kept little off from the Bus Stand ( near Petrol Pump) Board the Bus.
1400 PM	Depart Sonakhali by Bus
1730 PM	Arrive Esplanede, Kolkata, the tour ends

Budjet Hotels in Kolkata

Will get back with the rates and contact Details ......

Tourists who visit Kolkata on a shoe string budget can try out the Budget Hotels in Kolkata for perfect comfort. The budget Hotels are known for providing services at affordable rates and Budget Hotels in Kolkata are no exception. For the large number of travelers who choose these hotels there are provisions for basic amenities as well as specialized services. The prices may vary substantially.
Tip: Do not choose a hotel near Howrah station. The hotels have bad reputation. Hoets in Sudder Street is very commom to the Foriegn travellers on a shoe string budjet. The Hotels near Chittaranjan Avenue are near the metro Station and are reasonably good if you have patience to look around a bit.

Budget Hotels
Aayash	DD-24A,Sector1,Salt Lake City
Bauddha Dharmankur Sabha	1, Buddhist Temple Road
Broadway Hotel	27A, Ganesh Chandra Avenue
Capital Guest House	118 Chowringhee Lane
Central Guest House	18, Prafulla Sarkar Street
Centrepoint Guest House	20, Mirza Ghalib Street
Gulistan Guest House	30 F, Mirza Ghalib Street
Classic Hotel	6/1 A, Dr M Ishaque Road
Gujral Guest House	88, Lindsay Street
Hotel Galaxy	3, Stuart Lane
Hotel Neelam	11, Dr M Ishaque Road
Hotel Palace	13, Chowringhee Lane
Hotel Hilson	4, Sudder Street
Hotel Maria	5/1, Sudder Street
Hotel East End	9/1, Dr M Ishaque Road
Hotel Royal Palace	30 F, Mirza Ghalib Street
Lindsay Hotel	8A & 8B, Lindsay Street
Modern Lodge	Stuart Lane-1
North Star Hotel	66 /1, Dum Dum Road
Paragon Hotel	2, Stuart Lane
Rail Yatri Niwas	Howrah Railway Station,
Royal Garden	163 A, Park Street
Salvation Army Guest House	2, Sudder Street
Shalimar Hotel	3A S N Banerjee Road
Shilton Hotel	5 A, Sudder Street
Sonali Guest House	21 A, Mirza Ghalib Street
Sourya Continental	233/3, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Road
Timestar Hotel	2, Tottie Lane
Tourist Inn	4/1, Sudder Street
YMCA	25, Chowringhee Road & 42, SN Banerjee Road
YWCA - 1,	Middleton Row

Visit to Kanha

Kanha Tiger Reserve, comprising parts of the Mandla & Balaghat districts of Madhya Pradesh, and located in the "Maikal" hills of the Satpuras.
Besides harbouring a viable population of the tiger, Kanha has distinguished itself in saving the endangered hard ground barasingha from extinction, and supporting the last world population of this deer species.
The entire National Park area of 940 sq. km. is visualised as a "core zone", free from all biotic disturbances. A buffer zone of 1009 sq. km. surrounding the core is treated as a "multiple use area".

Getting There:

The best way to go to Kanha is in your own transport as it located at quite a distance from any major town. However, if that is not a possibility, there are regular bus connections from Jabalpur to Kisli (at the park) via mandla. Also available from the neighbouring towns are taxis that are run by local operators. Some of them operate jeeps that can be hired for your entire trip along with a driver. It is difficult to find self-drive vehicles on hire without the additional driver. If you are staying at one of the bigger resorts at the park, it is possible to request them to arrange transport for you beforehand.

Park Visiting:
1. 15 November to 15 February - Sunrise to 12.00 noon and 3.00 pm to Sunset
2. 16 February to 30 April - Sunrise to 1200 noon and 4.00 pm to Sunset
3. 1 May to 30 June - Sunrise to 11.00 am and 5.00 pm to Sunset