HORSLEY HILLS

PLACES AROUND HORSLEY HILLS

While in Horsley Hills you may plan an excursion to the Kaundinya wild life sanctuary. At the Kaundiya Wild life sanctuary you may spot the Cheetal, Four horned Antelope, Sambhar, Mouse Deer, Hare, Porcupine, Wild boar, Jungle Cat, Jackal, Sloth Bear, Panther, Jungle Fowl, Pea Fowls and Elephants. The Sanctuary is rich in flora too and boasts of Albizia Amara, Ficus Religiosa, Ficus Tomentosa, Ficus Bengalensis and Bamboo, Santalum Album et al. The Kaundinya Wild life Sanctuary is at a distance of 87 km away from the hillock of Horsley Hills and is worth visiting.

HOW TO REACH

BY AIR - The airports at Tirupati and Bangalore at a distance of 160 km and 165 km respectively cater to the air travel to Horsley Hills.

BY RAIL - The railhead at Madanapalle Road is the nearest to the Horsley Hills. From the Madanapalle Road station Madanapalle is at a distance of 13 km and Horsley Hills 43-km.

BY ROAD - State transport buses of Andhra Pradesh and taxis ply to the hill resort of Horsley Hills. There are daily buses to Horsley Hills from Madanapalle and Tirupati

WHERE TO STAY

Accommodation is easily available in Horsley Hills at the A.P. Tourism's Governors' Bungalow, Forest Bungalow, P.W.D. Inspection Bungalow or the Chittoor Cooperative Society guest house.

We offer excellent accommodation facilities in and around Horsley Hills.

Horsley Hills

Horsley Hills

INTRODUCTION

Horsley Hills is a serene hamlet in Andhra Pradesh that has been named after W.D. Horsley, the Collector of Cuddapah district. Collector Horsley who was also the British member of the Indian Civil service had made the hills his summer retreat. The natural beauty of the Horsley Hills is indeed irresistible. The Horsley Hills have been a popular refuge for the sun-scorched souls since long. The Chenchu tribes largely inhabit the Horsley Hills that are so rich in flora and fauna. BEST TIME TO VISIT Horsley Hills remain cool throughout the year. There are no major temperature variations and the Horsley Hills experiences a maximum of 32°C during summer temperature and minimum of 20°C. Thus you may plan your tour of Horsley Hills any time of the year. LOCATION The hill resort of Horsley Hills stands at an altitude of 1,265 meters above sea level on the southwest border of Andhra Pradesh. TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS The Horsley Hills need to be experienced to be enjoyed. There are the Sampangi flowers that spread their fragrance, on the shady slopes of the Horsley Hills. There are gorgeous greens as far as you may see. In the forest area of the Horsley Hills you may find a wide variety of flowers ranging from Reeta, Shikakai, Amla, Beedi leaves, Bay leaves, Sandalwood, Red sanders, Blue gum, Mahogany to Bamboo. While at the Horsley Hills you may even spot animals like bears, wild dogs, jungle fowl, sambars and panthers. While at Horsley Hills do visit the tourist attraction of the Eucalyptus tree namely Kalyani that is 150-year-old! As it is Horsley Hills is populated with the Eucalyptus, Jacaranda, Allamanda, Gulmohar trees. You may even visit the renowned Rishi Valley School that is being run by the Jiddu Krishnamurthy Foundation. The Rishi Valley School is in close proximity to the Horsley Hills The Mallamma temple is another major tourist attraction at Horsley Hills that is worth visiting. The Chenchu tribes who inhabit the Horsley Hills keep the renowned Pungannur cows. The Pungannur cows are known for their milk yielding capacity and low appetite.

ARUKU VALLEY

ARUKU VALLEY
INTRODUCTION

The picturesque paradise of the Aruku Valley is in fact a cluster of five valleys. The Aruku valley offers the nature at its best and has a rich tribal heritage. In the hill resort of Aruku Valley there is scenic splendor that soothes the eyes. The amazing Aruku valley boasts of the gorgeous greens, flourishing forests and the wondrous waterfalls. The various tribal settlements here are conserving their rich culture and traditions. The Dhimsa dance of the tribes is not to be missed.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The Aruku Valley experiences a pleasant weather all through the year. Thus you may plan your trip to the Aruku valley anytime.

LOCATION

The Aruku Valley in Andhra Pradesh is an altitude of 1300m above sea level and lies 110 km from Vishakhapatnum and 760 km from Hyderabad.

TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS

The hill resort of Aruku Valley has several tourist attractions. The natural beauty of the Aruku Valley is immense and incomparable. The entire landscape of the Aruku valley is dotted with lush orchards.

Since Aruku is renowned for its tribal heritage you must visit the Aruku tribal museum. The Museum in Aruku valley houses has a rich collection of exhibits that reveal the tribal tradition and number of artifacts pertaining to the Eastern Ghat Tribal Culture.

The pristine natural beauty of the Aruku Valley Ghats makes it an excellent excursion from the Aruku valley. The Anatagiri Coffee Plantations are must checkouts. The age-old Borra Caves are other option for excursion from Aruku Valley. You may take up a conducted tour to the Borra Caves.

Then there are the Sangda waterfalls that attract the tourists and the adventure seekers alike. The waterfall is not just wonderful it is indeed a spectacle to be enjoyed in the Aruku valley.

Matsyagundam in the Aruku Valley is another place of tourist attraction that is worth visiting. At matsyagundam you can spot fish of all sizes, pat them feed them et al. matsyagundam is rightly called the fish pool. You may visit the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva here.

Paderu in the Aruku Valley is another spot frequented by the tourists looking for a tranquil holiday in the lap of nature.

The Padmapuram Botanical Gardens, Tida Tunnel, Damuku View Point, Kothalasa Agriculture farm, Government Silk Farm and the Mulbary Gardens are the other places of tourist interest in the Aruku Valley.

The other hill resort of Aruku Valley Hills is in close proximity to the Aruku valley.

HOW TO REACH

BY AIR - The airport at Vishakhapatnum is the nearest to the Aruku Valley.

BY RAIL - Regular bus services are available from Vishakhapatnum that is at a distance of 110 km from Aruku Valley. Aruku it self has a railhead.

URISTS ATTRACTIONS

TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS

Hyderabad, the fifth largest city in the country, is the capital of Andhra Pradesh and has several prominent places in and around it. It has a Hindu-Muslim culture with a number of monuments of historical importance like Char Minar, Golconda, Salar Jung Museum, Mecca Masjid, Osman Sagar and Osmania University. The capital is in reality the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad linked together by the Hussain Sagar Lake.

The sites of historical importance include Warangal, Palampet, Vemulavada, Bhadrachalam, and Lepakshi. Andhra Pradesh is known for pilgrimages, not only for Hindus, but also for followers of other religions like Muslims, Christians and Buddhists. The state has a rich heritage of temples, mosques, churches and viharas. The state is known for the famous Sri Venkateswara temple at Tirupati, Birla Mandir at Hyderabad and Bhadra Kali temple at Warangal, Mecca Masjid at Hyderabad, the Buddhist viharas at Nagarjunasagar, and the Sai Baba Ashram at Puttaparthi. The Hindu pilgrimage sites include Tirupati, Srisailam, Basara, and Srikalahasti. The state was once the site of a flowering Buddhist culture. The Salivahanas, who were Buddhists by religion, followed the Satvahana dynasty. Several Buddhist stupas and viharas were built during their reign, and Buddhist centers flourished at Nagarjunakonda, Amravati, Sankara, Bhattiprolu, Guntupalli, Gantasala, Salihunda, Panigiri, Nelakondapalli, and Bahvikonda.

There are waterfalls at Ettipothala, Kuntala, and Gandipet. The caves at Undavalli and Borra are also major tourist attractions. Two large and world famous dams are located at Nagarjunasagar and Nizamsagar.

Many wildlife sanctuaries can be found in the state, namely, Kawal, Sivaram, Pakhal, Pranahita, Eturnagaram, Kinnerasani, Papikonda, Nagarjunasagar, Srisailam, Pocharam, Gundlabrahmeshwaram, Shri Venkateshwara, Srilanka Malleswara, and Kaundinya. There are four bird sanctuaries in the state at Kolleru, Rollapadu, Nelapattu, and Manjira.

The state has nearly 1,000 km of coastline, with eight of its 23 districts having direct access to the sea with azure water caressing golden sands, which accounts for the presence of so many beaches. Starting from Bheemunipattnam near Vishakhapatnam down to Mypad in Nellore district, the coastline of Andhra Pradesh offers unalloyed joy to the sun worshippers and sea bathers. Apart from the Ramakrishna beach, Lawson's bay and Rishikonda beach at Vishakhapatnam and Bheemunipattnam beaches there are other famous beaches such as Manginapudi, near Machilipattnam, Kakinada, Chirala, Kalingapatnam and Mypad.

places of interest

places of interest

Assam, as a destination corresponds to a world of contrasts and excitement with each place of the state having something amazing to offer. Some people call it a magic land while others call it a green paradise.

The State of Assam is one of the most beautiful regions of India. There is hardly any other state which has greater variety and colour in its natural scenery and in the cultural treasures of the people that inhabit it.

Agnigarh

Da-Parbatia The ruins of the door frame of Da-Parbatia Temple a few kms. from Tezpur town, is perhaps the finest and oldest specimen of sculptural or iconoclastic art in Assam. It's carving has the characteristics of the style of early Gupta School of sculpture. The door-jambs having two goddesses, Ganga and Yamuna, standing below with garlands in their hands in artistic pose and elegance are decorated with beautiful ornamental foliage. Agnigarh "Preserving the sweet memory of young lovers", Agnigarh or the rampart, surrounded by fire, is perhaps the most beautiful tourist spots in Tezpur. According to legend, Princess Usha, the only daughter of King Bana, was kept inside the palace which was surrounded by rampart of fire. The present Agnigarh, now only a hillock facing the mighty Brahmaputra, provides the tourist a soul touching panoramic view of both the river and Tezpur town.

Satra

Satra

The Institution of Satra is a unique feature of Vaishnavism in Assam, founded by Sankardeva, the father of Assamese culture.

Satras are basically monasteries which propogate neoVaishnavism. They also became centres for education and dissemination of the art of harmonius living.

In 15th century the first Satra was founded in Majuli. Since then sixty five Satras have come up for the propagation of ethics and socio-cultural ideals. However, at present there are only twenty two Satras in Majuli. The others had to be shifted to safer places due to the devastation of flood and erosion.

The main existing Satras are:

Dakhinpat Satra: Founded by Banamalidev, an exponent of Raasleela, which is now observed as one of the National Festivals of Assam. During Rasotsava several thousand devotees visit these holy Satras every year.

Garamurh Satra: Founded by Lakshmikantadeva. During the end of Autumn, traditional Raasleela (co-acting) is shown with great enthusiasm. Some ancient weapons called "Bortop" (canons) are preserved here.

Auniati Satra: Founded by Niranjan Pathakdeva, the Satra is famous for "Paalnaam" and Apsara Dance and also its considerable collection of Assamese old utensils, jewellery and handicrafts.

Kamalabari Satra: Founded by Bedulapadma, it is a centre of art, cultural, literature and classical studies. It's branch, Uttar Kamalabari Satra, has showcased the Satria Art in several states of India and abroad.

Bengenaati Satra: It is a storehouse of antiques of cultural importance and an advance centre of performing art. Muraridev, the grand son of Sankardeva's step mother founded this Satra.
The royal robes belonging to the Ahom king Swargadeo Gadadhar Singha, made of gold and an golden umbrella are preserved here.

Shamaguri Satra: The satra is home to famous Mask crafts.

Batadrawa Satra: It is the birthplace of the greatest Vaishnava Saint Srimanta Sankardev,a Shrine and a centre of Vaishnava art and culture. It is about 140 kms. from Guwahati and about 15 kms. from Nagaon town.

Barpeta Satra and Kirtanghar : This famous Shrine and Kirtanghara attracts Vaishanavas from all over India. It was established by Madhadeva, the greatest discipleof Shankardeva.

Madan Kamdev

Madan Kamdev

Barely 40 kms. away from the sprawling metropolis Guwahati, on N.H. 52 Madan Kamdev is an enigma, a mystery, a marvel and in the words of Omar Khayam, "a veil past which I could not see". Very little is known about the origin of this magnificient archaeological ruins.Written history is almost silent on it, leaving wide room for conjectures and hypothesis.

Kamrupa - the ancient name of Assam, is believed to have derived its name from the legend that love God Kama or Madan, after being turned into ashes by an angry Shiva, was reborn here. One school believes that Madan was reborn and united to Rati on this tiny hillock. The season to visit is from October to May.

Umananda Temple

Umananda Temple

The great Shiva temple situated on the Peacock island in the middle of the Brahmaputra in Guwahati attracts devotees from all over the country during Shiva Ratri. One can visit the temple by crossing the river by country boat plying from Kachari ghat. On the north bank of the Brahmaputra, opposite Guwahati, where the third Pandava Arjun is believed to have watered his horse while undertaking journey during Ashwamedh Yajna. Regular ferry services are available to this place.

Nabagraha Temple

Nabagraha Temple

The temple of nine planets situated on Chitra Chal Hill in Guwahati. It is 3 km away from the Railway Station. In ancient times, it was said to have been a great centre of study of astronomy and astrology. This is also one of the reasons why Guwahati is referred to as Pragjyotishpur or the city of eastern Astrology. It can be approached by taxi or auto-rickshaw.

Kamakhya Temple

Kamakhya Temple

The Shakti Temple of mother Goddess Kamakhya situated on the top of Nilachal Hills, overlooking river Brahmaputra, is 8 Km. away from the railway station of Guwahati.

The greatest shrine of tantric Shaktism find mention in the inscription of the Allahabad pillar of Samudragupta. Devotees from all over India converge on this holy place during Ambubashi and Manasha Puja. City buses ply regularly to Kamakhya. It can be easily reached by auto-rickshaw as well.

TOURISM SPOTS IN RAJASTHAN

TOURISM SPOTS IN RAJASTHAN

Rajasthan is a classic blend of beauty and historicity. Indeed, the State has so much going for it that it's difficult to decide where to start. The very images that it conjures up are steeped in romance and beauty. A line of supercilious camels silhouetted against a magnificent desert sunset. A blur of swirling color as a Rajasthani belle dances to hypnotic music. The handsome, hawk-like face of a Rajput man, fiercely mustachioed, regally turbaned, reflecting an arrogance and power that can be traced several centuries back. It is the unyielding facade of a splendid fort or the delicate kiosks and balconies embellishing a palace wall. The bold, colorful sweep of a phat painting, depicting sword-bearing chieftains going off to battle, rainbow-hued dupattas, ghagras and cholis, twinkling with the light of a hundred tiny glinting mirrors. All of which add to attractions of this wonderland we call-Rajasthan.

Rajasthan's almost 80% of the places are regarded as the places of tourist interest. The old city of Jaipur, capital to the state of Rajasthan, painted pink that gives a magical glow to the city, is one of the must visit places of the state. The 250-year-old city of Jaipur, also known popularly as the Pink City is a startling blend of forts and palaces, teeming markets and all the bustle and modernity befitting the capital of India's second largest State. The Hawa Mahal, the exquisite City Palace and the incredible observatory of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II Central Museum, Nagar Garh Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Amber, Albert Museum, Birla Mandir Planetarium, Sisodia Rani Park, Lakshmi Narain Temple, Kanak Vrindavan, The Rajmahal Palace, Rambagh Palace (now a Luxury hotel) and the Jantar Mantar are some of the sites that say about their contemporary time.

In the bleak desert that is Rajasthan, there is also a green oasis-Mount Abu, a cool hill station, a holy mountain retreat, the Aravali range; the verdant forests alive with a variety of flora and fauna; the stunning Dilwara Jain temples; the Nakki lake at 1,200 m above sea level; the city of Ajmer; the Dargah or tomb of the popular 13th-century; a number of monuments belonging to the Mughal era; the well-fed camels and citadels; the exotic camel safaris; the worship of thousands of holy rats at Mata Kali temple are some of the most interesting aspects of the state in general. The golden city of Jaisalmer, which lies courageously as the western sentinel of India, is a place worth visiting. Major points of attraction are Jaisalmer Fort, Manakchowk, Jain Temple, and different havelis.

Even further off the beaten track is the relatively unexplored Hadoti area of Rajasthan, comprising Kota, Bundi, Baran and Jhalawar. The princely State of Jhalawar, or the land of the Jhalas, was created in 1838, and unlike much of Rajasthan, has a rocky, but green and water laden landscape.

DESTINATION OF RAJASTHAN

HISTORY OF TOURISM DESTINATION OF RAJASTHAN

The past flavor lingers on. However, Rajasthan is much more than the imagination of few rulers. It is an identity created by people, who enjoy life and have ample proof to show for it.

The earliest inhabitants of Rajasthan belonged to the Great Harappan Civilization. This area saw the arrival of the horse riding Aryans from central Asia in about 2000 BC. The Mauryan dynasty-one of the first dynasties to rule over large parts of India controlled this area in about 400 AD. With the passing of time however this arid region became the scene of the ravaging onslaught brought about by the Huns and the Scythians. The settling of the Scythians in Rajasthan set the stage for the rise of the Rajputs who were the offspring's of the Indo-Scythians. With the passing of time this new race proliferated into a number of new clans. Rajasthan thus became the homeland of these groups of warrior clans, collectively called Rajputs, who dominated this region for over a thousand years. They carved out small kingdoms in this region during the 9th and 10th century AD that were often at war with each other. Due to this lack of unity, the Rajputs were unable to present a combined front against a common aggressor. This weakness ensured that every foreign aggressor in India created enough trouble for the Rajput rulers of Rajasthan. All this resulted in them being defeated or subjugated by the Mughals, who reduced them to the status of a vassal.

Nevertheless the bravery and, sense of pride and honor amongst Rajputs is unparallel in the history of India. Chivalry was the hallmark of the Rajputs. They fought with courage and determination. Death to defeat was the theme of Rajput warring ideology. They would face the enemy with all the might even if defeat were imminent; in which case jauhar was performed. In this grim ritual women and children would commit suicide by immersing themselves in a huge funeral pyre. It was for these qualities that some of the Rajputs rulers and chieftains adorned the court of most of the Mughal rulers especially Akbar. There warring skills were used to the fullest by Akbar who very effectively used the services of these brave fighters for the protection of his vast kingdom by inducting into his standing army. He also entered into matrimonial alliances with prominent Rajput families most important being the one with princess Jodha Bai, daughter of the Maharaja of Amber.

With the decline of the Mughal Empire, the Rajputs were gradually able to recover their lost territories and status. These turn of events were however short-lived, as very soon the British set foot on the Indian mainland marking the beginning of one of the most eventful phase of Indian history. The British Raj, as it was popularly called, was characterized by many anew trends and practices. One of these was their policy of signing articles of alliances with most of the princely states in India that ensured their independent existence subject to certain political and economic restrictions. This marked the decline of the once mighty and powerful Rajput dynasties of this region.

After independence Rajasthan became an integral part of the Union of India under the new constitution.

GOA

INTRODUCTION TO GOA: Best Tourist Place for India

Goa is definitely the best tourist place for India. "The pearl of the east," Goa is known for its Gothic churches, crumbling forts, palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves, ferry rides, bubbly folk music… the list is endless! With its 131-km-long coastline, Goa is an important locale in every tourist's itinerary. Sun, sand and sea being the major attractions, Goa trip is a perfect heaven for the ones who need and want relaxation. Goa Beach Resorts always add to the fun. Christian Pilgrimage tours to Goa are extremely popular. Besides pilgrimages Goa is famous for honeymoons also. Goa, honeymoon packages are extremely popular with Indians. Goa, honeymoon packages cater to the needs of the tourists with varying budgets. The all-inclusive Goa, honeymoon packages tour too make interesting options.

LOCATION OF GOA: Best Tourist Place for India

The location of Goa makes it easily accessible. Travelling to Goa, the best tourist place for India is comfortable. Situated on the western coastline of India, the Union Territory of Goa is sandwiched between the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka. The capital Panaji is at a distance of 592 km from Bangalore and 593 km from Mumbai. The waters of the Arabian Sea wash the coastline of Goa. It is split into two districts-North Goa (STD Code: 0832) and South Goa (STD Code: 0834). North Goa includes the capital city of Panjim, the former capital of Old Goa, Fort Aguada and Candolim, Chapora, Vagator, and the beaches Calangute, Anjuna, and Baga. South Goa includes Vasco da Gama Bogmalo, Margao, Colva and Benolem. Being near to the sea, Goa enjoys a maritime climate, with April and May being very hot. The Goa Beach Resorts sitauted on the beach sides are the best way to enjoy Goa. Christian Pilgrimage tours to Goa are usually taken up around the Christmas and New Year.

HISTORY OF GOA

HISTORY OF GOA: Best Tourist Place for India

Goa has been a key destination for Christian Pilgrimage tours in India. Goa was a part of the Mauryan Empire, around 3rd century BC. The Satvahanas of Kolhapur, and later the Chalukyas of Badami, took over the governance. Other dynasties followed, including a short-lived Muslim invasion, until the Vijaynagar Empire established itself for almost a century. This era, too, ended with the arrival of the Sultans of Gulbarga, from whom the rule passed on to the Adil Shah of Bijapur. Soon, the Dutch, English, French and Portuguese, all began struggling for its possession. Ultimately, in 1510, the Portuguese conquered Goa, with Alfonso de Albuquerque leading the invasion. Having ruled for around four centuries, in 1961, fourteen years after the country's independence, the Portuguese had to leave Goa.

TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS IN GOA: Best Tourist Place for India

Goa, the best tourist place for India offers several tourist attractions. Beaches and churches are the key tourist attractions in Goa. Christian Pilgrimage tours and Goan Carnival attract numerous visitors. In the local dialect, Goa is often referred to as "Goa Dourada," (meaning "Golden Goa") because of its beaches, forts, churches, waterfalls, seminaries, and caves. Today, Goa Beach Resorts are attractions in themselves.

"The queen of Indian beaches," Calangute is a stretch of 7 km. Baga beach is a handy commuting point to Anjuna. At a distance of 7 km from Panaji is the beach of Dona Paula, which is a good site for relaxation and sunbathing. At a distance of 6 km away from Margao is another beach, Colva, which offers good accommodation. Calangute, Baga, Candolim, Colva are dominated by package tourism. Anjuna, the traditional rave center is popular with the bag packers. Benaulim falls between hype and hip, and is filled with beach shacks and low-key Goa beach resorts. Arambol in the north and Palolem in the south are idyllic by nature. Other famous beaches include Miramar and Agonda. Goa Beach Resorts along these beaches in Goa are excellent accommodation options.

The Dudhsagar waterfall and Arvalem waterfall attract many tourists every year. The rock-cut caves of Khandepar and Arvalem are also worth mentioning. The Pilar monastery, Saligao seminary, and Rachol seminary attract the religious minded travelers.

While nature has been so generous to Goa, man too has contributed a lot to Goa's beauty. The strong Roman Catholic community, with the active support of the erstwhile Portuguese rulers, has had a number of churches built in this picturesque locale. In Panaji, one must visit the church dedicated to our Lady of Immaculate Conception, and the Chapel of St. Sebastian. No doubt that Christian Pilgrimage tours to Goa are so popular. The Goa State Museum, the Secretariat, the statue of Abbe Faria in the capital is a must see for lovers of art. The largest of the churches in Goa, the Se Cathedral is in Old Goa and is flocked by thousands of tourists every year. The holy shrine of Basilica of Bom Jesus, also in Old Goa, houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. It is a famous pilgrimage center among the Roman Catholic world. Most Christian Pilgrimage tours include visits to these churches of Goa. Other famous churches are the Convent and Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Church of St. Cajetan, Church of St. Augustine Ruins, Church and Convent of St. Monica, Church of Our Lady of Rosary, Chapel of St. Anthony and Chapel of St. Catherine-all of which are in Old Goa. Fort Aguada is worth a visit to savor the nostalgia of the Portuguese regime, especially in its lighthouse and the Aguada jail. Terekhol Fort in the Arambol beach has been now converted to a hotel. The Museum of Christian Art in Rachol Seminary and church and the Braganza House near Margao are also worth a visit. Besides these, to get a glimpse of the Hindu population in Goa, one has to visit Ponda. The Kerkar Art Complex in south Calangute is also an important tourist center. The Wednesday flea market at Anjuna is an important trading center for handicrafts from Kashmir to Gujarat.

Garden palace

The Garden palace

The Garden palace is a set of fine gardens, agricultural fields and orchards. Nawab Saheb Manovar Khanji Babi built it in 1883. The Garden Palace serves meal in a typical Nawabi period ambience; made from homegrown vegetables, milk from the palace dairy and chicken from its poultry.

Ramkrishna Math

Ramkrishna Math

Photos Ramkrishna Math

Ramkrishna Math In the mid 19th century, Ramkrishna Paramhans set out to revitalize Vedic philosophy and principles amongst the people of India. Following in his steps, the Ramkrishna Mission, Rajkot, located on a serene campus offers a value based education, has a public library and an Ayurvedic center, plus guest house and a permanent exhibition showcasing the life of Shri Ramkrishna Paramhans. Morning Aarti- 5am, Evening Puja- 7:30pm.

Khambhalida Caves

Khambhalida Caves

Photos Khambhalida Caves

Khambhalida Caves, Near Gondal, Dist:Rajkot At Khambhalida there are three caves, the central one being a 'chaitya' with a worn out stupa. The entrance of the chaitya is flanked by two large sculptures of the Bodhisatvas-Padmapani on the right and Vajrapani on the left. These caves dates back to 4th-5th century AD and are scooped out from the local limestone rock.

Wankaner

Wankaner

Royal Oasis & the Residency

Wankaner The former princely state of Wankaner is located 53 km from Rajkot. Nestled round a bend on the River Machchhu hence its nomenclature ‘Wanka’ meaning bend, ‘Ner’ a river, Wankaner formed part of an area in Saurashtra caller Jhalawar due to the predominance of the Jhala Rajputs ruling there. The Wankaner Royal Family known for their patronage of the arts had a personal interest in engineering and architecture, exemplified in the Ranjit Vilas Palace designed by His Highness Amarsinghji in the year 1907. This Palace built on a hilltop overlooking the town of Wankaner is an eclectic blend of various architectural styles. Gothic arches support oriental marble balconies, terraced porticos sport Doric and ionic columns and a seven storied clock tower capped with a Mughal dome. Franco-Italian window panes frame the exteriors overlooking magnificent grounds containing stables for thorough bred stallions and a fine collection of classic automobiles. The palace is occupied by the present royal family though sections have been converted into a museum showcasing a grand collection of armaments, stuffed animals, portraits and paintings, royal silver ware and exotic furniture. Two palace guest houses, The Royal Residency and the Royal Oasis are now Heritage Hotels. The Royal Oasis is situated on the banks of the Machchhu Lake amidst a serene orchard of leafy trees, the warbling of birds and an atmosphere of cool, meditative calm. It also houses a grand indoor pool in the Art Deco style with an early twentieth century step-well located near the palace grounds. Wankaner reflects the hospitality and grandeur of old Kathiawar

jetpur

jetpur

Photos Jetpur(Handicrafts)

Jetpur 70 km from Rajkot on the way to Junagadh lies Jetpur, a town renowned in history as a center for Block printing and dyeing. The very air is laden with the smells of dye stuffs spiraling out of large copper vats with translucent layers of colored fabrics drying to the percussion beat of wooden printing blocks. Jetpur is a pleasure for textile enthusiasts who can visit and experience the process of printing and dyeing.

Tankara

Tankara

Photos Tankara_Maharshi Dayanand Sarswati Birth Place

Tankara In 1824, Tankara - a village 44 km from Rajkot was blessed with the birth of a child who later grew up to be a great social reformer and began a Hindu movement based on Vedic principles. This venerable personage was none other than Swami Dayanand and the movement that he initiated is the Arya Samaj of today.

Gopnath Bungalow

Gopnath Bungalow

Gopnath Bungalow was the seashore retreat of the royal family of Bhavnagar. Built in a European colonial style with cottages and mansions surrounding a courtyard, the whole complex faces the sea. The tidal waves here are among the largest in the world. Blessed with lovely white sand beaches it is a nature lover’s paradise. You can see marine life in the rocky shoals, extensive coastal bird life including oystercatcher and plovers, stripes hyena and jackal in the coastal scrublands.

Adinath Temple

Adinath Temple

Photos Adinath Temple

Adinath Temple With a slender tower over the shrine, the Adinath temple honors the first tirthankar Lord Rishabhdev of Jainism, who is said to have achieved enlightenment on this spot. Lord Rishabhdev had a sign of an Ox on his thigh and before he was born, his mother Marudeva had seen 14 dreams out of which the first was an Ox. He was the first to start the religion and thats why he is also known as 'Adinath'.

SHAKING MINARETS

SHAKING MINARETS Just south of the railway station, outside the Sarangpur Gate, the Sidi Bashir Mosque is famed for its shaking minarets, or jhulta minars. When one minaret is shaken, the other rocks in sympathy. This is said to be a protection against earthquake damage.

Shri Vishal Jain Museum

Shri Vishal Jain Museum

Photos Shri Vishal Jain Museum

Shri Vishal Jain Museum At the foot of Shatrunjaya, this museum houses an excellent collection of artifacts, excavated idols from earlier temples, ancient manuscripts written on palm leaves, and an exhibit on the history of Jainism and the life of Lord Mahavira. Most of the accompanying information is in Gujarati, though some is in Hindi and occasionally English. Entry is Rs. 6/-. Open from 11am-3pm and 4pm-6pm daily.

Mira Datar

Dargah of Hazrat Sayed Ali Mira Datar

Hazrat Sayed Ali Hazrat Meeran Datar

Original Name - Hazrat Sayed Ali
Nasab - Hazrat Imam Hussain
Father - Hazrat Dost Mohammad
Born - 29 Ramazan, 879 Hizri
Shahdat : 29 Moharram, 897

“Think not of those, who are slain in the way of Allah, as dead. Nay, they are living. With their Lord they have provision.” (3: 169).

“And call not those who are slain in the way of Allah ‘Dead.’ Nay, there are living, only ye perceive not.” (2:154).

- The Holy Quran

For Complete information and Exclusive site visit :
www.sayedalimiradatar.com

HAZRAT SAYYAD ALI MIRA DATAR ( Rahmatullah Allaih )

Before we speak of the martyr saint, it will be relevant to give at least a sketchy glimpse about Jinns and demonic possessions. It is not unknown that in the Islamic world Jinns and demons and their possession are commonly accepted. The Holy Quran has a whole chapter named after The Jinn who have been created out of the searing fire. Some of them are Muslims and some are deviated who follow different paths. In fact various Surahs of the Holy Qur’an have some verse or another about the Jinn. The prophetic traditions of the Holy Prophet (s) are also replete about the knowledge of Jinn and their kinds and about the ways to seek protection from them. Satan or Iblis was from among the Jinns.

Ibn Taimiyah also confirmed the position of the majority scholars stating that the existence of the jinn was an established fact according to the Qur’an and the Sunnah and the agreement of the early scholars. The Jinn too are accountable for their good and bad deeds before Allah. Scholars have categorised the Jinn into a resident Jinn called Amaar, a malicious and wicked Jinn called Shaytan; the jinn stronger than shaytan is called Ifreet, while genie is one type of Jinn; and those antagonising young boys are called arwaah. There are various types such as those who fly in the air with wings, those who are in the shapes of creatures such as snakes, dogs, scorpions, lizards, etc. and those who rest in one place and then resume their journey.

Regarding possesson of a human body by a Jinn, scholars inform us that there is a consensus among Sunni Muslims that Jinn can dwell inside a human body. Ahmed Ibn Hanbal has categorically stated that those who deny that a Jinn can enter into the body of a human being are lying. Not only the human but also other objects, things, trees can be possessed by a Jinn. Demonic possession should, however, not be confused with medical ailments like epilepsy. However, again, all fits of madness may not be epilepsy but simply seizures by evil earthly spirits . It is in this state that the afflicted person may do things which are not normally done by a normal person. The person may, for example, speak a strange language, or lift a very heavy object, may remain motionless or may go on shaking the head, or keep running to and fro, or hurling abuses and screaming and so on for hours on end.

SIDI SAIYAD'S MOSQUE

	SIDI SAIYAD'S MOSQUE The mosque was constructed by Sidi Saiyad, a slave of Ahmed Shah, and has beautiful carved stone windows depicting the intricate intertwining of the branches of a tree. It is famous all over the world for its exquisite stone window tracery - a superb example of delicate carving that transforms stone into filigree.

Junagadh

Location:	Foothills of Girnar Hill
Distance:	327 km from Ahmedabad
Tourist Attractions:	Upperkot, Darbar Hall Museum, Ashoka's Major Rock Edict, Mujkund Caves, etc
Best Time to Visit:	October to March

Junagadh is located at the foothills of Girnar hill in the Junagadh district of Gujarat. It was the capital of the erstwhile Junagadh State under the Muslim rulers of Babi Nawabs. It is a historic city and its name means an ancient fort in Gujarati. Junagarh is a flourishing tourism destination in India, owing to the fact that it was ruled by many dynasties, which have enriched its cultural and historical heritage immensely. The profound influence of varied kingdoms is even visible in the architectural style of its monuments.

People travel to Junagadh to witness the magnificence of these historic structures. In addition to this, there are a number of other places apart from the monuments which are a must visit. The location of the city is such that the apart from the tourist attractions of the place, one can also enjoy a host of other places near the city. Owing to the fact that there is so much that Junagarh has to offer, one can easily say that it is a tourist paradise. Rarely has any other city in Gujarat been so richly endowed with historical and tourism wealth.

Rashtriyashala

Rashtriyashala

Photos Rashtriya Shala

Rashtriyashala Gandhiji returned back to Rajkot, the place of his former schooling in 1939 to help set up the Rashtriyashala, the first of many institutions expressly incubating the values of Swaraj and instigating a sense of pride leading to freedom from the colonial rule. The shala(school) today imparts education and vocational training and has initiated projects in weaving khadi, cotton and manual oil pressing. A shala initiative also introduced local weavers to the art of single ikat weaving leading to a distinctive Rajkot style of ikat saris which have gained acceptance in the market. The premises are open from 9am to noon.