These Ancient Architectures Will Brim You with Pride

Are you ready to experience the historical beauty of India that lured conquerors and Colonists? To talk about the beauty that fascinates millions of tourists and inquisitive architects in the nation again and again. So, get ready to travel through the gorgeous Indian craftsmanship!

Mahabodhi Temples

India had possessed a rich and diverse tradition of learning and knowledge and the upright leader of it is Lord Buddha. Mahabodhi is the temple wherein Lord Buddha once embraced enlightenment. The prince who left all worldly desires behind to communicate peace and diminish the suffering of the world Siddhartha came to perform reparation under a Peepul tree; it was the tree that was later adopted the name of the region Bodhgaya and Bodhi tree. This temple was first built by the great emperor Ashoka in 250 BC.

Taj Mahal

If you ask any person who has ever been to India, you will get to know that he had paid a visit to the Taj Mahal. It was constructed by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It is amongst the most magnificent gestures of love to ever be occurred on Earth. There is a surpassing charm and grandeur. It has mapped itself into the hearts of people around the globe.

Temple Rani Ki Vav

It is an ancient Stepwell that was formed by Rani Udayamati in the eleventh century AD for worshipping the hallowed waters of the Saraswati River. Located in Patan, Gujarat, it is a beautiful example of subterranean architecture; it is sixty-four meters long, twenty meters wide, and twenty-seven meters deep and goes downwards to a length of seven stories. The central theme of this place is the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu.

Elephanta caves

It is a wonderful blend of sculptural art and aesthetic beauty. The spectacular archaeological existence echoes the tale of the enriched dynasties which once ruled the entire place. These magnificent rock-cut caves of Elephanta were built somewhere in the mid-fifth to sixth centuries. The huge Cave is at a sophisticated height of thirty-nine meters rambling from the front entrance to the back. An individual can engulf in this massive world of rock-cut architecture.

Nalanda

Nalanda had been an ancient hub of higher learning in Bihar, India. The University of Nalanda is placed in Bihar. It was a Buddhist heart of learning. The prodigious library of Nalanda was so grand that it is stated to have burned for three long months after the attackers set fire to it, looted and demolished the monasteries, and herded the monks from the place.

Sun Temple, Konark, Odisha

The Surya Mandir of Konark is popular not just for its architectural splendor but also for its obscurity and abundance of sculptural work. The whole temple has been regarded as a chariot of the sun god with twenty-four wheels, every about ten feet in diameter, along with a set of spokes and intricate carvings. Seven horses slog the temple and two lions protect the entry, devastating the elephants. One must not skip its panoramic view. Check Out: Odisha Tour Packages

Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park

The architecture at this place bears a soundless testimony to the epoch bygone and showcases an amazing blend of Indo- Muslim architecture, which outcomes in a complete and unaffected Islamic pre-Mughal city. The park includes no less than sixteen heritage structures that comprise a main mosque, a helical Stepwell, a hill temple of Goddess Kali, and many other spots.

The Iron Pillar, Delhi

Created in the 4th century A. D., the Iron Pillar of Delhi stands for Sanskrit inscription in the Brahmi script that states that it was created in admiration of the Hindu god, Vishnu and in the reminiscence of the great Gupta King Chandragupta II. It highlights the ancient achievements of India in metallurgy. This pillar is formed of ninety-eight percent of wrought iron and has stood for more than sixteen hundred years that too without rusting or decomposing. This pillar is seven meters high and 17 seventeen inches in diameter at the base and twelve inches in diameter at the top.

Bhimbetka Rock Shelters

This Bhimbetka shelter denotes an amazing reference to what we now refer to be the middle stone age. It is situated at the foothills of the Vindhyan Mountains in Madhya Pradesh. It was discovered late as in the year 1957. The cave paintings denote a near interaction between man and nature.

Chola Temples

The stunning Chola temples are living stories of the huge empire which Cholas created in Thanjavur. These splendid temples formed during the rule of Raja were the essence of the huge religious feeling of these rulers as the inscriptions and chronicles on the wall sing about their lavish rule. This temple in ancient times was not just a religious center but a completely functional business founding which was served and managed by a permanent staff of several hundred priests, four hundred devadas, and fifty-seven musicians.

Thus, while a slight peep is making you feel so proud, how about the practical experience? Just pay a visit to these places and embrace the splendor of India.

Kasauli – The Land of Enchantment

I got associated with the land of Kasauli when I was very young. I was born there in the district of Solan in the state of Himachal Pradesh. I did my schooling there and this quaint little place with the best of scenic splendor would never let you down anywhere. After years of staying in other places, when my cousin suggested we go visit Kasauli again, obviously I was quite excited and so we made our way towards this lovely paradise. We traveled by train from Delhi and reached Kasauli after getting down and then taking a car.

For your information, this land of Kasauli was the brainchild of the British. It was earlier a British cantonment and the entire place is the place where the Pasteur Institute founded by Dr. David Semple is still there. Today it is known as the Central Research Institute. We get vaccines for snake bites, rabies, etc. here and the cure for yellow fever was found here. Then you also have the Lady Linlithgow Sanatorium which is closed now. It was the main institution for the cure of tuberculosis in those days.

It is also said according to Indian mythology that lord Hanuman was looking for the medicinal herb Sanjeevani which would revive the unconscious Lakshman. He set his foot at Monkey Point here and till today the top of the mountain is shaped like a foot. There was a temple that was built here in the 1970s when I was a small child. There was a shila here that was around during this time, and hence the temple was built. My mother says that there were a great many accidents here and after considerable investigation, the shila was found. I love to go to this place but feel sad I can’t take my camera along as photography is not allowed here. The entire climb is a trekker’s delight.

With this small land, there is not much to see but there is everything to see. Intriguing isn’t it? This small hill station Kasauli has the best of sights and is also the quietest of places. There is no hurry here and everything seems to be in slow motion. There are three main areas of interest, the Main bazaar, the Upper Mall, and the lower mall. The lower mall is the place where you would get the best view of the hills of the Shimla region. Then there is the valley below you can see from here. Make this trip after the sun has set and enjoy the beautifully clear nights of Kasauli. Then the upper mall has a view of the Shimla hills and also the Lawrence school. This too is a great spot to visit and I love to go here. The view of the entire city of Chandigarh and the Ambala region is a sight to behold. The small bulbs and the beautiful night makes it a must for any tourist.

Go to Sanawar lying around 5 kms from Kasauli and go to the Sanawar School here which is very popular. Then also visit the Baba Balak Nath Temple here.

Visit Dharampur and go by the toy train here. You can eat the Bun Samosa which is famous in Kasauli. This is around 12 kms from Kasauli. A tuberculosis cure center is located here.

Then go to Sabathu which is Gorkhaland for here is where you have the Gurkha Regiment Training Centre of the Western Command. There is a fort here built by the Gurkhas sometime in the 19th century. At a height of around 1437 m, this fort is a great sight. Then the history of this place where the British soldiers were quartered during their rule also adds to the beauty.

Visit the Gambhar Pul here which is a bridge built over a fresh flowing water body. All picnickers like to come here.

Then I went to the Old Brijieshwar Mahadev temple which is a very old temple with a lot of heritage value and is still a favorite of old-timers.

I then made my way towards Dagshai which is an old cantonment that was set up by the British. At a height of around 6000 ft, I had the time of my life going up. This is the place where the Durrand Cup Matches are played.

The next day I went on a timber trail in the Shivalik range region. There were two hills next to each other and they were joined with a cable. One could go on this and enjoy the idyllic surroundings.

Then I visited the Bon monastery which is around 53 kms from Kasauli. My cousin got nostalgic going to these places and I too liked to see this second-oldest monastery in the entire world.

We then went to the Chail the summer capital of Patiala, then the cricket ground here and also the Hotel Chail Palace.

On the last day, we visited the Wildlife sanctuary and had a good time seeing the goral, sambhar, and Khalif. The red jungle fowl and cheer pheasants are also found here. Then we went over the Sadhu Pul over the Ashwani stream. The last we saw was the Kairighat which was earlier a Dak bungalow and today a lovely hotel.

Interesting Facts About Kailash Parvat

The Heaven of Shiva, Kailash Parvat has many mysteries to share, which continue to captivate travellers and devotees all over the world. It unites different religions because it is a symbol of unity and strength, and it is a pilgrimage for all. With its interesting stories and legends, Kailash Parvat is a true legend in itself. For trekkers, it is a virgin peak that has never been climbed or explored due to its unique weather and shape. It is also known as the staircase to Heaven. Let us explore more to know these interesting facts and stories.

To feel the power of Shiva and his abundant blessings book yourself for a divine visit through the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and revere for an eternal peaceful life.

The Legend Behind Kailash Parvat

The legend says that Kailash is the abode of Shiva, Parvati, the devtas, the yogis, the yakshas. It is also known as the spiritual center of the world. Also termed as the Pillar of The world and is situated in the heart of six mountain ranges that represent a lotus. The mountain, as Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati’s residence, expounds the philosophy of Purusha and Prakriti, which is Shiva and Shakti. The throne of Truth, Wisdom, and Bliss is the radiant Silvery summit. There are numerous legends hailing with the mountain all of which boils down to faith. Every year, a large number of devotees from Hinduism, Sikhism, Bon, Jainism, and Buddhism come here to seek blessings and soak in the spiritual aura of this serene location. It is a haven for nature lovers, pilgrims, adventurers, and peace seekers.

Explore The Facts

Stories are told when faith around a place becomes strong, same goes for Kailash Parvat. So let us know the facts which makes Kailash more intriguing.

The Symbol Of Life

The symbol of life, purusha and prakriti is defined through the steep peak of the Parvat. Also the sign of purity the swastika emerges on the peak. It is believed that the early settlers, those of the Bon faith, in the Kailash region call Kailash ‘Nine-Story Swastika Mountain’. The swastika is a religious symbol from the Bon religion. As the sun sets, the shadows cast by the massive vertical ice fissures and horizontal rock layers on its southern slope form a (partial) left-facing swastika symbol. The bottom half is crystal clear; the top half, above the snow line, is not. The left-facing swastika represents eternal existence, auspiciousness, and protection in Mahayana Tibetan Buddhism and Bon beliefs. So the symbol of life unifies all humanity in this world.

Stairway to Heaven – Spiritual Divinity and Pillar of the World

It’s believed to be a stairway to heaven. According to Hindu mythology, it is the home of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Because it was sacred to other religions as well, climbing this holy peak is forbidden. It is also the physical manifestation of Mount Meru, which is thought to have superhuman divine beings’ with divine power. This holy mountain is said to be the centre of the universe. It is regarded as the axis of the universe, the centre of the world, and the pillar of the world. It is the meeting point of the earth and the heavens an unusual yet divine experience.

Satellite View and Acceleration of Ageing

It is believed that ageing is faster in this divine peak, yes you heard right. Many facts have shown that mountaineers who have crossed the line beyond access have aged ten years more at a time and have died of old age. Also it is reported that people staying back more than twelve hours have seen hairfall and finger nail growth at a much higher pace than general. Also the satellite view shows that the reclining shadow of the peak falls in such a way that it depicts the smiling face of Lord Shiva himself.

A Pyramid and Source Of Divine Rivers

Kailash Mansarovar is the source of four major divine rivers in Asia. The Indus River, Sutlej River, Brahmaputra River, and Karnali River, which forms the major left-bank tributary of the Ganges River, all have their origins in the Kailash Himalayas and Mansarovar Lake. Also the odd shape has given rise to many speculations even by scientists that Kailash Parvat is a manmade pyramid which is hollow from within and surrounded by smaller ones to give the effect it has. But yet it is not proved as no one has ever been able to trek the peak. Also the unexpected deaths of the climbers who tried to climb has given life to the stories around, as if Shiva stops entry of human being in his own abode.

Presence of Good and Evil – The Balance of Life

Without evil good cannot survive and here at Kailash Parvat that balance is maintained well. Manasarovar Lake and Rakshastal Lake are two lakes in the Kailash Himalayas region. There are many myths associated with these two lakes. They depict the two sides of human nature, good and evil. Both the water bodies compliment each other although being different and distinct, yet this balance of life brings forth the human nature too where we as humans have both positivity and negativity, and choose according to the nature. So precisely Kailash Parvat is the epitome of life depicting all the facts of life in its huge grandeur.

India Travel Guide and Travel Information

India is the nation with diversities. On one hand this country is popular for its natural terrains such as beaches, backwaters, hill stations, deserts etc., on the other hand tourists can witness the places of historical significance such as forts, palaces, temples, mosques, churches and many more. Get India Travel Information for India Tourism.

Every state of India bears a distinct superiority in itself. We can take some wonderful instances in this respect. If you go to Kerala, you witness beautiful beaches, backwaters, houseboats and many more. Moreover, Kerala is termed as “God’s own country” and you can see the places of worship of different religions in this state. On the other hand, if you visit Rajasthan you witness excellent sand dunes, palaces & forts of some brave emperors, wildlife sanctuaries etc. Taj Mahal of India, which is situated in the city named Agra, is one of the wonders of the world and a lot of people from across the globe visit this place every year. Kashmir is recognized as a heaven of earth by some great poets and the scenic beauty of this state is marvelous. Delhi is the capital of India which has seen rise and decline of some great empires. So, there is no doubt that Delhi is the place with historical significance.

You can get a lot of luxurious hotels and resorts and travel information of India in which you can stay during your visit to this nation. In these hotels and resorts, most of the modern amenities are available which perfect suit to the needs of the present day people. You get India Travel Information and also get luxurious beds, bathrobes, telephones, high-speed internet access, swimming pools, arrangements of different sports like golf, cycling etc., in these hotels or resorts. The trip to India undoubtedly proves to be memorable one for the lifetime of the tourists. It is a nation in which you will like to come again in order to explore it more.

Indian Geography

Indian Geography covers the area of 3.28 million sq. meters and it is the seventh largest nation of the world. You can see diverse geography in India in its different states. Jammu & Kashmir is the state in which you can witness beautiful landscapes, scenic beauty of snow-capped mountains and many more. Kashmir is known as a ‘paradise of the earth’ due to its unmatched beauty. On the other hand, Kerala is the southern state of India which has also been counted under the ten paradises of the world by the national geographic traveller. Exotic beaches, backwaters etc., are the specialties of the state. Goa, Maharashtra and West Bengal are also the states with wonderful beaches. Actually, India is surrounded by water from three sides, and you can see the beaches of Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal in the different states of this country.

Wonderful sand dunes can also be witnessed in the India in the Rajasthan state. This state is popular for its deserts; however plains can also be seen in the cities of this state. Delhi, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and many other states of India bear plains, but several places of the nations are situated on the banks of some great rivers. Ganges, Yamuna, Brahmaputra, Kosi etc., are some of the popular rivers of India. Some of these rivers have religious significance as well.

The climatic conditions of distinct states and cities of India are different from each other. You can get cool atmosphere in the places like Kashmir, Kullu Manali etc. On the other hand, great heat can be witnessed in the states like Rajasthan and West Bengal. Moreover, natural vegetation is available in many parts of India and a large number of natural resources are also found here. So much diversity in geography of India undoubtedly makes India a perfect tourist spot.

Indian Culture

Likewise geography, Indian Culture is also diverse in different states. But, a few things of the culture of India are common in every state. Most of the people, who believe in the culture of India, treats the guests as gods and give them respect like family members. Moreover, respect to elders can be seen in most of the families and the elders are believed as the driving forces.

On the other hand, differentiation in culture can be seen in the architecture, languages, religions, dances and cuisines. Time to time different people came to India and this country accepted the good notions from outsiders as well.

A great traditional touch can be seen in the marriages of India, and different states and religions have distinct customs of weddings. Today, a lot of craze among to foreigners can also be seen about enjoying Indian Culture style of marriages. Arrangement marriages are going on in India from hundreds of years and the amazing thing is that these marriages are also getting successful. It doesn’t mean that people of India do not believe in lover marriages. Some great legends of love are popular in India.

Different salutations are used in the country to greet the people. “Namaste” and “Namaskar” are the most common words which are used by the people of country, however the word for salutation may differ according to the state, religion and language. Vanakkam, Assalamualaikum and Sat Shri Akal are also used by a large number of people. Name of God and deities are also used for greeting others.

Tradition scriptures of India culture are popular across the globe. In India cultural tours a lot of respect about Vedas, Bhagwat Geeta, Ramayan etc., can be seen among several intellectuals of the world. Besides, books like Quran, Bible and Guru Granth Sahib (Sikh scripture) are also read in India. For sure, the culture of India itself has a great attraction for the tourists.

Fairs and Festivals

India is the nation with rich culture. A lot of cultural diversity can be seen in this country and a number of Indian fairs and festivals can be seen in this country in different states. Some of the Fairs and Festivals are common in different states, however the way of celebrations may be different. Holi and Diwali are two popular festivals of India. Holi is celebrated due to geographical and mythological reasons. Holi is the time when farmers get new crops in their fields. On the other hand, the mythological story of Prahlada, a great worshipper of Lord Vishnu, is popular in many parts of India which is also believed as the reason for celebrating Holi. Diwali is celebrated in the memory of Lord Rama coming from the exile. Before around 20 days of Diwali, Dussehra is celebrated in many parts of India, however the way of celebrating it may differ depending upon the customs of the states. The custom of burning effigy of Ravan is very popular in northern India.

Besides Holi & Diwali, Durga Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi, Janmashtami, Christmas, Eid, Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra, Vasant Panchami, Ram Navami, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Lohri etc., are many other fairs and festivals of India. Most of these fairs and festivals are based on the religious beliefs of the people. Apart from the above-mentioned ones, a number of many other festivals can be witnessed in India in different parts of the nation. Some festivals are celebrated in certain cities of India by the local people. You can see a vast variety of fairs & festivals the places like Kerala, Ladakh etc. Most of these festivals are celebrated on the bases of the dates of the Indian calendar. There is no doubt that these fairs and festivals provide the special attraction to the tourists which come from different parts of the world. You can know about these Indian fairs and festivals easily from the internet and the guidebooks.