INDIAN RIVERS

India is a land of great physical diversity with its mountains, plateaus, valleys, waterfalls, tourist place, etc. Such a large country in area is bound to have these various physical features. But rivers in the country hold a special place in the lives of the people. There are many rivers in India and most of them do a lot more than just supply water to people. Since ancient times, rivers have held a very important position in one’s lives. These are considered holy, especially according to the Hindu mythology. At all big occasions, people go and take a dip in rivers like Ganga so as to purify their souls. Also, there are other rivers too in various parts of the country which have some mythological importance or the other and therefore are considered holy. Also, India being an agricultural country, a major role is played by these rivers in providing irrigation to the fields. If it would not have been for these rivers like Yamuna, Kosi, Ganga, Brahmaputra, Godavari, Kaveri etc, India would not have been flourishing. The water for irrigation of all the crops is provided by the rivers itself. Other than the religious importance and irrigation, there is a lot more that is provided by the rivers. It is an important means of transportation. Also, electricity is provided by these rivers to a large population. Also, it is a source of employment to a number of people. Even tourism is promoted to a great extent by these rivers. A lot of adventure sports are being done in these rivers which has made them an attraction for tourists. The rivers of India have a special place in the hearts of the people, so much so that they even worship them. A glimpse of the beautiful landscaping that these rivers have would enchant any one and attract them towards the culture of the country all the more.

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All About Amarnath

Shiva is one of the holy Trinity of the Indian mythology. And linga? Well, that is the phallic symbol of Shiva. That is Amarnath. Shiva lingas are a common sight everywhere and worshipped in every nook and corner of India.
Then what is so special about the one in Amarnath? Here it is a natural formation of snow seen only during July-August every year. And it waxes and wanes with the moon. There is not just one. There are two more ice stalagmite, close to the main one. These represent Parvathi, Shiva's consort, and their son, Ganesha.
There is a legend associated with Amarnath: It's that Shiva disclosed the secret of creation to Parvathi in a cave at this place. That was overheard by a pair of doves. Once the secret was known, they could be reborn and reborn. Doves can, therefore, be sighted at Amarnath cave even today.
There is another on the creation of the cave. That the Amarnath cave and the lingam were discovered when Kashyap rishi drained the Kashmir valley, which was a lake at that time, of all waters.
A third one has a little historical anecdote underlying Amarnath cave. It is that once upon a time a sadhu gave Buta Malik, a Muslim shepherd, a bag of coal which on his reaching home turned gold. The spot where the bag got changed hands became a pilgrim centre. A part of the donations received at the Amarnath temple is given to the descendants of Malik Saab every year even today.

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Tourist Place - Mahabaleshwar

Technorati Profile

Traveling in Maharashtra can be quite the experience .There are quite a few places within the state that the residents themselves are not aware of. To start with, some of forts that should not be missed out while traveling the Great State include,Raigarh , This was the capital of the State's greatest Leader ,Shivaji .This was where he was crowned and the same place where he died. At 210kms south of Mumbai, and spread out at 5.12sqkms ,the forts architecture was focused on making sure that it was easily accessible to his associates , whereas it making it impossible for his enemies. Some of the other forts you might want to visit include, Pratapgarh, Lohagarh, Kulaba, Ajinkyatara, Ahmadnagar forts. Home to many of the monks dating back to the 2nd BC, Maharashtra has a number of Caves, which depict amazing architecture and are even compared to the structures today. Among them Ajanta and Ellora caves stands out, as the formation of these caves can be called as one of Maharashtra's and probably even India's greatest events which took 600 years to complete. These caves showcase an artistic collage of sculptures influenced mainly by Buddhist, Hindu and Jain culture. It is recommended that you stay at Aurangabad as there are daily services from here to these caves. The Elephanta caves, is another masterpiece which could really add to your trip. This 7th century marvel can be visited by ferry which is conducted everyday, except Monday from The Gateway of India. 145 kms from Mumbai, Bordi Dahanu, in the Thane district, is a beach that stretches 17kms and is considered as an important place of worship by the Zoharastrians. It is known for a temple that houses their sacred fire which is said to have been kept alive for about 1000 yrs now.Along the Konkan Coast, 375 kms south of Mumbai, Ganapatipule is a spectacular beach that holds the self originated temple of Swayambhu Ganesh, which is visted by thousands every year. There are many more beaches along the coast of Maharashtra which are of historical importance; some of those are Mandwa and Kihim 12miles from Alibaug. Marve, Manori and Gorai is located about 40 kms by road from Mumbai and Tarkarli, 546 kms south of Mumbai has one of the clearest beaches you can find in India. Off the coast, and into the mainland, you will find a number of hill stations, some which are visited by thousands of tourists a day. Among them Mahabaleshwar, which is considered as the Queen of the hill station, stands out at an altitude of 4500 feet. Apart from its beautiful landscapes, it provides tourists with a chance to experience nature at its best. Boating and fishing at Venna lake, horse riding, Golf, Polo are some of the attractions here .Mahabaleshwar is also known for its Strawberries, Jams, Leather and Tribal jewelry, which makes shopping here special. It's easy to get here by either public transport or on your own and accommodation is available in plenty.Panchgani not too far away from Mahabaleshwar, is another gorgeous hill station apart from Matheran, Amboli, Malshej Ghat and Chikhaldara Hills.

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Kashmir

jewel glittering atop India, Jammu and Kashmir is one of the most beautiful destinations in India. Often referred to as the 'Switzerland of India', it is the northern extreme of the country. Home to mighty mountains and lovely glades and forests, the region is bestowed with abundant of natural beauty overflowing from everywhere. Ruled by a Maharaja Hari Singh in the past, Jammu & Kashmir is made up of many regions but is called Jammu & Kashmir because the two most populous regions in the state are called Jammu and Kashmir. Tourist Attraction in Kashmir: • Amar Mahal Museum Set in a picturesque setting of Himalayas, Amar Mahal Museum and Library, is an epitome of royal grandeur and magnificence. It is a repository of books and paintings and attracts art lovers and historians from all over the world. The museum building forms the major part of the majestic Amar Palace, which has a French touch in its architectural style. • GulmargThe meadow of Flowers is a world famous tourist spot in the Baramulla Distt of Kashmir. The altitude of Gulmarg is 2730 meters. surrounded by dense forests of tall conifers, Gulmarg is known for unparalled beauty nad is rated as one of the matchless tourist spots of the world. It is famous for Golf hikes and boasts of a beautiful highland golf course. It is premier resort for winter sports in the country. • Hari Parbat FortThe Mughal fort situated on the banks of the Dal Lake of Srinagar, it is positioned on top of the Sharika Hill. Originally, it was built during the reign of Akbar but its present structure owes itself to the Afghan governor of Kashmir in the 18th century. It has a Parvati temple on the western slope and the Muslim shrines of Khwaja Makhdoom Sahib and Akhund Mullah Shah on the southern one. • SrinagarSrinagar is located in the western part of the State of Jammu and Kashmir and is famous for its lakes and the charming rows of houseboats floating on them. It is also known for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and dry fruits. The Mughal Gardens are an important tourist attraction. The best time when tourists can seize an opportunity to travel to Srinagar is from June to early November to enjoy the extended summer and from December to February in winter. • Hazratbal ShrineThe Hazratbal Shrine, which is situated on the left bank of the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar. This unmatched reverence is anchored in the love and respect for the Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him), whose Moi-e-Muqqadas, (the sacred hair) is preserved here. • PahalgamThe Pahalgam valley is situated at the confluence of the Seshnag Lake and the Lidder River. Pahalgam is associated with the annual Amaranth yatra. The region is extremely popular among tourists for its outdoor activities like fishing, horse riding, golf and trekking. Tours and travel to Pahalgam usually offer opportunities for outdoor activities. Excursion of Kashmir: AchabalAchabal is situated at a distance of 58 km from the district of Srinagar. Reached via Anantnag, Achabal served as the pleasure retreat of the Mughal Empress Nur Jehan. Situated at a height of 1,677 m, Achabal is a visual treat for the eyes. Achabal is adorned with one of the best Mughal Gardens in India. The beautifully laid out garden in the Mughal (Persian) style sparkles with a charm and character, which is quite unique to it. KokernagSituated at a height of 2,020 m, Kokernag is approximately 70 km from the district of Srinagar. Blooming gardens surround this spring, which bubbles at seven places at the foot of the forested mountain. The water of Kokernag in Kashmir is believed to have medicinal and digestive properties. Wullar LakeWullar Lake is approximately 60 km from the city of Srinagar, between the towns of Bandipore and Sopore. Spreading over an area of 125 km, Wular Lake is said to be one of the largest fresh water lakes in Asia. The Wular Lake of Kashmir changes character after every few miles of its course. The lake serves as a natural flood reservoir for Jhelum River, draining off the excess water. YusmargYusmarg is approximately 47 km from the Srinagar and lies in the Badgam district of Jammu and Kashmir. The two-hour drive to the place is an enjoyment in itself. Grassy pastures stretching to acres of land, the dense forests full of pine trees, with the backdrop of splendid snow capped mountains leave you almost speechless. How to get there: By AirSrinagar airport is approximately 14 km from the city. There are daily flights to Srinagar, operated by Indian Airlines (from Delhi, Mumbai and Jammu) and Jet Airways (from Delhi and Jammu). By RailJammu Tawi, approximately 305 km far, is the nearest railhead for Srinagar. Trains from Delhi, Calcutta, Pune, Mumbai and other cities arrive at this station only. During holiday season, when there is a heavy rush for Kashmir, additional trains operate for and from this station. By RoadNational Highway 1-A is the main highway connecting Srinagar with Jammu. J&K State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) as well as a number of private Super deluxe, A-class and B-class busses operate to and from the state. Private taxis are also available for traveling to Kashmir.

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Your Holidays In India

India has become very popular with tourists in recent years. This beautiful country has so much to offer not just in terms of scenery but also its diverse range of culture and people. Many holiday makers now rent holiday home accommodation while on holiday in India. By staying in a holiday villa or self catering holiday apartment they are able to experience the true culture of India.A land of rich culture and Heritage, India is unique for diversity in language, culture, landscape, climate and religion. India is home to a five thousand year old civilization. India has become a popular destination among the tourists, across the world. The diverse attractions of India consists of deep blue seas, mysterious deserts, sprawling beaches, splendid green valleys, majestic mountain ranges, exotic back waters, temples, royal forts, man-made monuments, natural wonders, jungles, national reserves and stunning waterfalls.The crowning glory of India is the Taj Mahal. Constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan, in the memory of Mumtaz Mahal, his wife, this marble monument is the 'symbol of love'. Built overlooking River Yamuna, the monument was built to enshrine the body of Mumtaz. The design and structure of the monument with an impressive garden, reflective pond, semi-precious stones embedded in the marbles and engravings from Koran is a specimen of architectural brilliance. Hawa Mahal of the pink city of Jaipur, Rajasthan is another prominent attraction of India. Built in the year 1799, the palace is a five-storey edifice, which is built in the shape of the crown that decorates Lord Krishna's head. The Hawa Mahal is located on the edge of the City Palace complex of Jaipur and is replete with hundreds of screened windows and balconies. The building is smaller than other palaces but the pink hue of the palace and the honeycombed stone work enhance the royal appeal of the palace.The Bahai temple, popularly known as the Lotus temple is located in Kalkaji, in the southern part of Delhi. This architectural splendor was built in the twentieth century. People from all sects and religions visit this temple. The temple is shaped like a Lotus and is made of white marble, dolomite, cement and sand. The temple, devoid of any images of Gods offers a great setting for meditating and is visited by hordes of people for the peace and tranquility it offers. A holiday to India is incomplete without a visit to Kerala. Kerala is replete with golden beaches, temples, resorts, natural beauty, paddy fields, palm fringed landscape, churches and back waters. This land of Ayurveda baffles the tourists with its splendid landscape, art forms, culture, heritage and cuisine. The back waters are a major attraction in Kerala. The exotic maze of rivers, lakes, canals and estuaries lined with greenery make Kerala a great boating destination.The eternal city of Varanasi is the religious capital of India. The city is built along the banks of the sacred River Ganges. A visit to Varanasi and a dip in the sacred waters of Ganges is believed to cleanse a person of misdeeds and sins. The sacred city also houses the Golden Temple. The temple with its gilded towers is the highlight of the city, apart from the Ganges.Other great places for tourists to visit while on holiday in India are the beaches in Goa. When in Goa rent a holiday villa by the sea. Other places to visit are Kerala, the temples in Orissa, South India and numerous historical places. The opulence and the variety of India have captivated tourists the world over. It is also home to vibrant festivals and tradition. A visit to the various destinations of India unravels the mystery of the enigmatic country, India! It has now, emerged as one among the major tourist hot spots of the world.Many tourists fall in love with this beautiful country of contrasts. It is a good idea to rent holiday home accommodation on a trip to India. By staying in a holiday villa or self catering apartment in India gives you the freedom to explore the sights and experience the local culture of this magnificent country.

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