Ajanta- World Heritage Site

Hailed as one of India''s greatest artistic treasures, and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Ajanta is the location of some of the finest examples of ancient Indian sculptures and murals, housed in 28 caves that served as a major Buddhist monastery from the second to seventh century BC. Work started on these caves in AD 400 when Buddhist monks started carving out these temples and prayer halls from the cliffs located within the Sahyadri Hills. 

The rock-cut caves demonstrate the skill and artistry that Indian craftsmen had achieved several hundred years ago. The amazing thing about these caves is that both the paintings and sculptures have withstood the passage of fourteen centuries and visitors are stunned by their complexity and beauty.

Historically Speaking

The paintings and frescoes at Ajanta relate the story of the development of Buddhisim from BC 200 to AD 650. The 29 caves, over a period of time evolved into prayer halls and monasteries. A greater part of the sculptures depict portraits of animals and gods, whereas the paintings depict life in the courts illustrations from the Jataka legends.

Sightseeing

Transport yourself back to the past in Ajanta – take a torch-lit tour of the Caves and marvel at the beautiful paintings that glow softly in the dark and gasp at the life-size and miniature sculptures that abound here. You can amble though the Ajanta Caves on your own or take a guided tour – the art contained in these Buddhist Caves are great works by themselves and one can spend hours studying them. Guides are helpful in explaining the pictorial stories and in pointing out some of the more amazing aspects of the paintings and sculptures that transform the rocky cave walls.

Begin with Cave 1 , which has some of the finest painting specimens, particularly the two bodhisattvas of Padmapani and Vajrapani and an impressive seated Buddha sculpture. Move on to Cave 2 with its beautiful ceiling painted to resemble a tent and its lovely animated sculptures. Walkthrough the other caves observing many more murals and frescoes, many of them illuminating stories from the Jataka tales, and episodes from the Buddha’s life. Exquisite sculptures capture your eye, their fine detailing adding to the aesthetic beauty of the Caves. Of particular interest are Cave 17 with its exquisite murals, Cave 19 with some astounding sculptures and Cave 26 with its impressive carvings. At Ajanta, you can spend the whole day transfixed by a single monumental image or get your fill of a million visual delights. Whatever you choose, chances are that you will come away with some wonderful memories.

Cave Timings : 9.00AM to 17.30PM Indian Standard Time (IST) Ajanta Caves remain closed on Monday

Where to Stay

Accommodation in Ajanta is limited and most visitors prefer to stay in Aurangabad or Jalgoan where there are a variety of hotels, from budget to luxury. Hotel Rama International is a five star hotel, Resident Park and Hotel Aurangabad Ashok are four and three star respectively.

How to get there by Air

The closest airport is at Aurangabad, 108 kms away.

How to get there by Rail

The closest railhead to Ajanta is Jalgaon which is approximately and hour and a half away. It is possible to hire a car or take a bus from here to the caves.

How to get there by Road

Regular buses ply from Jalgaon and Aurangabad to Ajanta. Otherwise you can choose to hire a private taxi to take you around.

Getting Around

Whether you drive or take a bus to Ajanta you will get off a couple of kms from the caves. The only way to get to the caves is by one of the shuttle buses and to explore the caves you must do it on foot.

Best Time to Visit

Winter months (from October to February) or during the monsoons are a good time to visit the Ajanta Caves. Weekends and holidays tend to be very hectic with plenty of visitors to the caves.

DAMAN - Union Territory

Daman (Damão in Portuguese), is a city and a municipal council in Daman district in the union territory of Daman & Diu, India. Although there is no public airport in the area, the Indian Coast Guard operates the small Daman Airport which is sometimes used by public companies (mostly state run airlines operate some aircraft from there).

Daman is a tiny little area sandwiched between the State of Maharashtra, Gujarat and the Arabian Sea. It is blessed with the very best natural resources and beauty that God can possess. Daman prides itself on its rich and varied historical heritage covering more than 2 millenniums. The history of Daman dating back to over 2000 years is replete with various rulers, conquests and surrenders. Starting from the First Century AD as a part of the country known as Lata until the Portuguese noticed this port in the 16th century and acquired it from the Shahs. 

Blessed with an affable climate and people Daman is an ideal place for tourists without any climatic restrictions. Replete with Casuarinas windbreaks, tranquil seashores, heavenly beaches and easy availability of liquor thrown in as a bonus makes Daman a tourist haven. The territory also attracts many history students and enthusiast due to its palpable Portuguese influence. 

The beaches and religious places of Daman are an invigorating combine silver talcum sands, stretches of lazy palms and ancient monuments. Add these attractions to the amazing attitude and zeal of the locals and you get festive occasions with illuminated parks throughout the year. 

Daman, in true sense presents a posy of attractions and a wide choice for shopping. The leather products, bamboo mats and baskets (not to forget some of the exotic brands of Indian and foreign liquors available freely) are sure to make a shopaholic drop with joy. The hand made (intricate works) articles are also a must buy.

This union territory of Daman is particularly popular with the people of surrounding state of Gujarat for a very special reason and that is liquor. As the surrounding parts of Gujarat have been declared dry or no liquor zones. Daman offers a paradise for those who are interested in drinking India's finest scotch whiskey or trying there hands on the local drink of feni. Streets of Daman are lined with endless bars.

Nani Daman Fort, Daman, India

CLIMATE

Daman is having a pleasant climate all over the year.  In summer, Daman is blessed with cool breeze coming from over the Arabian sea. Maximum Temperature is 39 degree centigrade and minimum is 11 degree centigrade. The average annual rainfall is 1687 mm. Beginning September & culminating May is the perfect period for exploring and fascination of this wonderland, but planning a holiday in monsoon is no less appealing and will evoke a great deal of exhilaration and mirth.

CULTURE

Daman can boast of a rich and multi - faced cultural heritage. Dance and Music are very much part of the daily life of Damanite. Here is a true fusion of cultures - tribal, urban, European and Indian.This ornate amalgam is reflected in the traditional dances of Daman.

Various Portuguese dances are well preserved and still widely presented.Tribal dances with caustic social comments are much in vogue. 

The local population consists of mostly fishermen called Tandels. in Gujarati. The major part of the population is a mixture of Hindus, Muslims and Christians, with Hindus being dominant in number. There has never been any communal violence reported in this area.

PLACES TO SEE

Jetty Garden, Nani Daman

A beautifully designed riverside garden located at the bank of Damanganga river, Near Jetty, Nani Daman. With attractive fountain, fun rides for children, river faced seating and a cool green lawn the garden offers a joyful evening for all age groups.

Nani Daman

Nani Daman is a place renowned for its rugged fort called the Nani Daman. Fortwidely famous for its exquisite architecture and carved archways. Many historians acclaim that Nani Daman Fort still preserves the smell of hoary past in its crumbling walls. The lighthouse here offers a mystic charm and adds to the beauty of the beach. The fort of St. Jerome at Nani Daman is simply enchanting and you can also visit the Jain temple nearby.

Devka Beach

Devka Beach in Daman, with a number of colorful fountains, is lively tourist destination and it has an amusement park where one can merrily frolic around. Among the beaches in Daman & Diu, Devka beach is arguably the most romantic beach and is characterized by sun-kissed sands, turquoise waters and an overall peaceful ambience.

Moti Daman

The entry of Moti Daman Fort.

Moti Daman, a quaint fort with carved archways, dating back to 16th century, is a standing testimony to thesuperiorskills of Portuguese architecture and no visitor to Daman must miss this site. It is reported that a large number of Portuguese gentry used to reside with their families within the confine of this Fort and one can therefore visualize somewhat their lifestyles by going through this place. The Our Lady of Rosary Chapelinside Moti Daman fort is certainly a marvelous structure worth visiting.

Cathedral Church of Bom Jesus

Cathedral Church of Bom Jesus is a commodious building and one of the most revered sites that has been dedicated to Bom Jesus. The aesthetically gilted carved pieces near the altar are truly wondrous and speak volumes about the mastery of the Portuguese craftsmen. The Church built by the Portuguese in 17th century is also famous for its impressive rosewood carvings.

Jampore Beach

Jampore Beach is a salubrious and romantic beach located just a few kilometers from Moti Daman. The serene Jampore beach is an ideal place to unwind and listen to the rumblings of the palm tress and be one with nature. Visitors who come here can assuredly enjoy seclusion and spend quality time with their family and loved ones. The lovers of water sports can take a plunge in the cool blue waters of the exquisite Jampore beach and spend some delightful hours.

HOW TO REACH 

Through Railway:

Nearest railhead is Vapi just about 12 Kms. Vapi is on the main railway line between Delhi and Mumbai. All major Express/Mail and Local trains stoppage are accessible at Vapi. Taxi Service is available between Daman & Vapi on charge per head basis. Other nearby railway head is Valsad Jn. just about 35 Kms. Through Air:     Nearest Airport is Mumbai. Domestic and International flights are available. Through Road:              Mumbai-Ahmedabad National Hihghway No. 8 connects Daman via Vapi. Some prominent distance: ·            Mumbai - 193 Kms. ·            Ahmedabad - 367 Kms. ·            Diu - 763 Kms. ·            Panaji (GOA) via Mumbai - 787 Kms.

BENGALURU

Bangalore, India's Silicon Valley and the country's pub capital, along with aerospace research, biotechnology and dozens of premier education institutions attract people from all over India and from abroad to look for endless opportunities in business and higher education making it cosmopolitan in nature. The garden city Bangalore has been popular amongst the tourists for its scenic surroundings laden with gardens. The marvellous architecture of the historical buildings leaves you spellbound in any case. As a tourist you can explore the scientific and art museums, the fort and palace, temples and lakes within the city.

PLACES TO VISIT

Sravanabelagola

Sravanabelagola (160km)

A little gem of calm, unspoiled township tucked away between the large Indragiri and the smaller Chandragiri hills. Sravanabelagola has remained a great Jain center and thousands of pilgrims flock to see the magnificent, gigantic statue of the Jain saint, Lord Gomateswara.

Hoysala temples at Belur (222 kms) and Halebid (216 kms)

The temples of Belur and Halebid are the remnants of one of the most artistically exuberant periods of Hindu cultural development. The sculptures depicted on these temples rival those only found on Khajuraho and Konarak. The Hoysaleswara temple of Halebid is an outstanding piece of Hoysala art and architecture. Every part of the temple is covered with endless variety of Hindu deities, sages, animals and birds and scenes depicting the life and times of the Hoysala rulers. Halebid also has a smaller temple known, as Kedarswara.

Chickmagalur (251 kms)

It is a town resting in Baba Budan Mountains. The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Kemmanagundi, Sringeri are a few tourist places near Chickmagalur

Mangalore (357 kms)

Kudroli Temple, Manglore

It lies west of Bangalore.In the early times it was the major port of HyderAli's Kingdom. It is hilly area with places like St. Aloysius Chapel, Mangala Devi Temple, Ullal beach to be seen. There are many places around Mangalore like Moodabidri, Karkala, Udupi, Malpe beach, St.Mary's island etc. Mangalore has lots of beautiful beaches and picnic spots all around.

Hampi (353 kms)

This was the old capital of Vijayanagar Kingdom on the bank of the river Tungabhadra.It is 6 kms from Hospet.You can see vast relics and ruins of the empire here. It tells the visitors about the glory that was the Vijayanagar empire. You can also find the Tungabhadra Dam located six kms from Hospet.

BijaPur (550 kms)

It is a fascinating city to explore with wealth of 15th -17th century Islamic architecture from mosques to palaces,mausoleums and fortifications.It is best known for its Gol Gumbaz,the tomb of Mohammad Adil Shah. It is the second largest dome in the world, 44 meters in diameter.Its unique feature lies in its sensitive echo chamber where the tick of a clock held at one end can be heard at the opposite end, 125 feet away. You can visit Ibrahim Rouza one of the most finely proportioned Islamic monuments in India.It was built by Ibrahim Adil Shah 2 for his queen Taj Sultana.The citadel surrounded by fortified walls and a wide moat, once contained the palaces,gardens and royal court of the Adil Shahi kings.Now only the ruins of Gagan Mahal can be seen around.Mohammad Adil Shah's seven storey palace the Sat Manzil is nearby.You can find Jala Manzil once a water pavilion surrounded by courts and gardens.The other monuments are Asar Mahal,Mihtar Mahal,Malik-e-Maidan and Jod Gumbad.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Bangalore is considered to be climatically a well-favored city situated in the heart of the South Deccan of Peninsular India. Bangalore enjoys a very agreeable climate and it is free from extremes. You can visit the city any time of the year and enjoy the salubrious climate. But the best time to visit is between September and March. 

HOW TO REACH

AIR TRAVEL

Bangalore is well connected by air with other cities. There are daily flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Calcutta, Hyderabad, Goa and Thiruvananthapuram and other cities by Indian Airlines and other Airlines like Jet Airways and Sahara.

RAIL

There are two major railway stations in Bangalore-The Bangalore city railway station and Bangalore cantonment railway station. The Cantonment station is convenient for passengers in and around the M.G. Road area. On the broad gauge it is connected to all major cites like New-Delhi, Chennai, Calcutta, Mumbai and Hyderabad You can get full information about the trains from Bangalore City Railway Station, Enquiry Tel.: 131, Arr. & Dep.: 134, Reservations Tel.: 132.

ROAD

Bangalore is located at the junction of National. Highway 4, 7 and 48 that connects it to all parts of the country with good roads.

LOCAL TRANSPORT

Bangalore boasts of an efficient and economical bus-service. The Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) handles all the buses plying within the city, and the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates the buses within the state as well as outside the state. There are daily buses at regular intervals to places like Tirupati, Mysore, Mumbai, Ooty, and Panaji.

Nainital

Capital of India's Lake district, Nainital was Jim Corbett's home for many years. Tough Nainital had expanded and the surrounding forests that once teemed with bears, tigers and deer, the soul remains the same. Nestled in the serene and peaceful hamlet of beautiful lakes and mountains, watch the sun rise and set over the mountains of Nainital. Move across the ravines and valleys, and see localized weather patterns appear over the higher peaks as winds are driven upward. Blessed with picture perfect and varied natural resources, Nainital is dotted with lakes. Nainital's attractions range from quiet walks in meadows the forests of pine and deciduous, the adventure sports as well as popular entertainment.

Places to Visit

The hill resort of Nainital tourism is dotted with places of tourist interest. Amongst the many landmarks in Nainital is the Naini Lake. The Lake is also referred to as the Tririshi Lake. The tourists find the lake breathtakingly beautiful. You may even enjoy boat rides on the lake. Nainital Boat Club also offers yachting facilities at the Lake. The prime attraction of Nainital hosts the annual Kingfisher Yachting Competition in the third week of June. 

While in Nainital you must visit the Cheena Peak or the Naina Peak. You can enjoy the panoramic vistas of the snow-capped Himalayas and the Nainital Valley. Then there is the View Point that is another vintage point in the hill resort of Nainital tourism. Check out the spectacular sights of the Himalayas and the Tibetan borders too. You may carry or hire binoculars to get the better views. You may take the ropeway that starts at the Mall in Nainital.

Then there is the Hanumangarh temple. Besides praying you may enjoy the sunset from the temple. Close to the temple is an observatory. Night view of the moon from the observatory should not be missed.

Nainital also has the St. John Church. The church is one of the oldest buildings of Nainital built after the British turned it into a hill resort.

The British Cemetery and the vintage point of the Dorothy's Seat on the Tiffin peak are other places worth seeing in Nainital.

How to Reach

The hill resort of Nainital is easily accessible. The Airport at Pant Nagar is 71 km away from Nainital. Flights link Pant Nagar with other places like Delhi. From Pant Nagar you may reach Nainital through bus or taxi.

The Kathgodam Railway Station is 35 km from Nainital. It connects Nainital with Delhi, Agra, Bareilly, and Lucknow. From the station you may reach Nainital through bus or taxi.

The excellent road network links Nainital with Delhi, Bareilly, Almora, and Ranikhet. The bus stand of Tallital is just one km from the city center of Nainital.

For local transportation within and around Nainital there are taxis, Ponies, cycle rickshaws and buses run by the State Road Transport Corporation.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit any hill resort in India is certainly the summer months from March to June. The months of September and October are also pleasant to be visited. Though the monsoon season in between from end of June to August should be avoided.

Where to Stay

Accommodation is easily available in Nainital. You may take your pick from the several hotels and lodges that cater to the needs of the tourists. The accommodation options are in ample in Nainital. They suit the budget of the varying tourists that flock to the hill resort, especially during the summer months. Good food is also available at the several restaurants and eateries in Nainital.

NEW YEAR IN MATHERAN

Matheran is just the right destination to spend a tranquil holiday in the lap of nature. Though it is a small hill station, Matheran never fails to attract people. Amidst striking waterfalls, picturesque surroundings, lush green valleys, vantage points, trails cloaked with shady trees & glittering lakes, Matheran is a complete package for tourists. Snuggled cozily in the Sahyadri hill range of Maharashtra, Matheran is amongst the very few places in the world which is debarred of motor vehicles. You must be wondering that Matheran is a small hill station and you might have accommodation problems. But leave all your worries aside regarding accommodation since there are numerous hotels in Matheran.Matheran, located at a distance of 100 km from Mumbai, is one of the tiniest hill stations in India. With its pleasant climate, sylvan green forests, majestic mountains and its close proximity to the nearby cities of Mumbai and Pune, it is one of the most preferred holiday resorts for people willing to escape the city blues.


How to Reach Matheran

By Air
The nearest airport is in Mumbai (Bombay), located at a distance of 100 km from Matheran. Passengers willing to travel to Matheran can board a bus, taxi or private car from the airport for getting to the place.

By Train
Various Express and local trains are available from the nearby cities of Mumbai and Pune that travels till Neral. From Neral, passengers can board the mini-train (toy-train) that ascends towards Matheran, traveling a distance of 21 km in 2hrs.

By Road
It is the most convenient and quickest way of reaching Matheran. A 24 hr taxi service operates between Neral and Matheran, and it takes only twenty minutes from Neral to reach Matheran by road.

Trekking
Some people also cover the distance between Neral and Matheran on foot. The trip though arduous, can be quite exhilarating, as hikers mount the steep hills enjoying the scenic beauty stretched all around.

Matheran Tourist Attractions

Echo Point 
This is a crucial point that offers a panoramic view of the whole place. As the name suggests, Echo point is well-known for allowing you to enjoy your echoes. This has made the place very popular amongst locals as well as tourists.

Monkey Point
It is a well-known point, famous for the large number of mischievous monkeys that throng the place. The point also offers a mesmerizing view of the verdant plains below.

More Tourist Attractions
Other important points are Heart Point, Malang Point, Honeymoon Hill, Lords Point, One-tree Hill, Olympia, Paymasters Park, Artists Park, Mount Barry, etc.