Here are some Pictures of Maharaja Palace, Samode a heritage resort 30 from Jaipur. We went there in a of season time but it was still good. I hope you like the pictures. For a detailed review of Maharaja Palace visit my squidoo lens.
The Manager welcomes us into the Resort
One side of the back courtyard. There is a wood behind the palace and hill all around it.
Large Front Courtyard with Fountain
Varanasi is one of the oldest cities of India situated on the banks of River Ganges. People used to mean this city as one of the holiest cities from India. The place is believed to be a sacred city with very old tradition and culture. Varanasi or Banaras is a place which still yet hasn’t flown down by the western culture. It is still very orthodox but also booming as modern cities. The city has all those major amenities which a modern advance city requires.
Varanasi is famous for spiritualism, mysticism, Indian philosophy and Hinduism. All these are reflected in numerous sects, temples, Ashrams and Ghats. Varanasi is associated not only with Hinduism but also with Buddhism and Jainism. Varanasi also boasts of Buddhist Stupas and Jain temples. Varanasi is mainly associated with Hinduism, temples form the main attraction. The Ganges Ghats (river fronts) are the main center of religious activities and rituals and also form one of the main attractions of Varanasi. The most important temples of Varanasi are Durga temple, Vishwanath temple, Sankat Mochan temple, Tulsi Manas temple and the Bharat Mata temple.
Varanasi is a place can be considered as the place especially for different temples. The place has great spiritual importance with so many other attractions. Varanasi is home to about 2,000 temples, and also known as the city of temples. Many important and famous temples are located at the Ghats of Ganges. The holy river Ganges in the place is like icing on the cake. Varanasi is also called Kashi, “the City of Light”. The “Kashi Vishwanath temple”, located near the Ganga Ghats, is the most famous and important temple of Varanasi.
Here is a detailed coverage of the Temples of Varanasi.
Spiritual life in Varanasi revolves around the ghats, the long string of bathing steps leading down to the water on the western bank of the Ganges. Most are used for bathing but there are also several ‘burning ghats’ where bodies are cremated in public. The main burning ghat is ‘Manikarnika’. There, one can often experience watching funeral processions threading their way through the backstreets to this ghat. The best time to visit the ghats is at dawn when the river is bathed in a mellow light as pilgrims come to perform puja (literally ‘respect’; offering or prayers) to the rising sun, and at sunset when the main ‘ganga aarti’ ceremony takes place at Dasaswamedh Ghat. One can explore a trip from Dasaswamedh Ghat south to Harishchandra Ghat and can have a great knowledge about the place Varanasi.
Varanasi is mainly popular for these ghats and the spiritual environment over here. People here come to explore about the Hindu culture, tradition and religion. Thus this place is very famous and caters a good quantity of visitors every year.
Bharat Kala Bhavan, located inside the BHU campus, is an art and architecture museum and houses a vast collection of paintings, Hindu and Buddhist sculptures and other materials of archeological importance. Bharat Kala Bhavan was established in the year 1920 A.D. In the main hall of the Bharat Kala Bhawan, there is a figure of a man standing on one leg and one hand on his hip and lifting a mass of stone above his head, with one hand.
Bharat Kala Bhavan also has a great collection of miniature paintings from the courts of Mughals and other Kingdoms and principalities. Some of the important sections in the Bharat Kala Bhavan are Mahamana Malaviya gallery, Nicholas Roerich gallery, Chhavi (Painting Gallery), sculpture gallery, Nidhi (Treasures) gallery, sculpture gallery, archaeological gallery, decorative art gallery and Banaras through age’s gallery.
The Banaras Hindu University or BHU is an internationally reputed University and is situated in Varanasi. The great nationalist leader, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, founded the Banaras Hindu University in the year 1916. Dr Annie Besant also played an important role in the formation of the BHU. The Banaras Hindu University played an important role in the Indian independence movement. Over a period of time, it has developed into one of the greatest centers of learning in India. The BHU has produced many great freedom fighters and Nation builders. It has immensely contributed to the progress of the nation through a large number of renowned scholars, artists and scientists.
Jantar Mantar is an observatory, built by Jai Singh, the Maharaja of Jaipur in the year 1737. Jai Singh was a great admirer of science and technology and he was particularly passionate about astronomy. Before the commencement of construction (of observatories) he sent scholars abroad to study the foreign observatories. The emissaries returned with many manuals on astronomy. The Jantar Mantar at Varanasi was built in line with Delhi, Mathura, Ujjain and Jaipur observatories. There are Jantar Mantar Clones in Delhi and Jaipur as well.
The Ramnagar fort lies about 14 km. from Varanasi and is situated on the opposite bank of river Ganga. It is the ancestral home of the Maharaja of Banaras. Maharaja Balwant Singh built this fort-palace in the eighteenth century. The fort is built in red sandstone. The Ramnagar fort has a temple and a museum within the grounds and the temple is dedicated to Ved Vyasa, who wrote Mahabharata, the great Indian epic. Legends have it that Ved Vyasa stayed here for a brief period.
The Ramnagar fort is a museum displaying the Royal collection which includes vintage Cars, Royal ‘palkies’, an armory of swords and old guns, ivory work and antique clocks. The ‘Durga Temple’ and ‘Chhinnamastika Temple’ are also located at Ramnagar. A temple of Dakshin Mukhi Hanuman is there. Inside the giant walls of the Ramnagar fort-palace, there is a big clock. This particular clock shows of the movement of the stars. An interesting array of ornate palanquins, gold-plated howdahs and weapons are some of the artifacts on display in the Ramnagar fort-palace museum.
Besides these places you can also look for places like; Sarnath Museum, Ashoka Lion Capital, Buddhist Temples, Chaukhandi Stupa, Dhamekh Stupa, Dharamrajika Stupa etc.
Varanasi is a place which basically carries the tradition or the old Indian Culture. So, you can’t expect any rocking night life over here. But for amusement purpose you can roam in the city. There you are able to find many sorts of restaurants or multi cuisine foods and beverages. Along these you can also able to see different branded costume stores, stores of traditional Banarasi Saree Houses, Cinema Halls and many other things.
Are you thinking to come to Varanasi? Then, don’t think, just come and know the Mythology and all the Purans related to Hinduism. This is one of the most sacred places which can make you feel revive surely, after coming.
The Bharat Mata temple at Varanasi is the only temple dedicated to Mother India. It is located in the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth campus. The Bharat Mata temple was built by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupt and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936. The statute of Bharat Mata is built in marble and is a model of undivided India, depicting the mountains, plains and oceans. The most peculiar thing about the Bharat Mata Temple is that instead of the customary gods and goddesses, it houses a relief map of India, carved out of marble.
Durga Mata temple, also known as the “monkey temple”, because of presence of large number of monkeys, is one of the important temples of Varanasi. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga. The Durga temple was built in the eighteenth century. A Bengali Maharani built the Durga temple in Nagara Style (the North Indian style of temple architecture). It is stained red with ochre and has a multi-tiered shikhara (spire). The Durga temple is situated on a rectangular tank, called the Durga Kund. According to the Puranas, Goddess Durga has kept this place for many centuries and protects the holy city, Varanasi, from the South.
The present idol of Goddess Durga was not made by man but appeared on its own in the temple. According to Hindu Mythology, Durga is represented as the embodiment of shakti or female power, clad in red, riding a tiger and fully armed. Non-Hindus can enter the courtyard of the Durga temple but not the inner sanctum. Thousands of Hindu devotees visit the Durga temple during “Navaratri” and other auspicious occasions.
New Vishwanath temple of Varanasi is located in the premises of the Banaras Hindu University (BHU). The temple is also known as Birla Temple. New Vishwanath temple is a replica of the old version of Vishwanath temple situated at Varanasi in another place. The temple is built in white marbles, and was planned by Madan Mohan Malviya, the founder of the Banaras Hindu University. The specialty of the temple is that it is open for the all cast and communities and built in beautiful white marbles, and was planned by Madan Mohan Malviya, founder of BHU.
Sankat Mochan temple is one of the sacred temples of Varanasi. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The word “Sankat Mochan” implies one who helps in removing sufferings, according to Hindu mythology. The famous author of ‘Ramcharitamanas’, Tulsidas was the founder of the temple. It is one of the most sacred temples of Varanasi, and always remains crowded by worshipers and visitors.
Tulsi Manas Temple is a very famous temple of Varanasi. The temple can be considered as one of the importance place to visit in Varanasi. Tulsi Manas temple is located near the famous Durga temple. It was built in the year 1964 with white marble. There is a magnificent arranged landscape around the temple. It increases the attraction quotient of the place. Tulsi Manas temple is dedicated to lord Ram. It is believed to be built at the same place where Tulsidas wrote the famous Indian epic, Ramcharitamanasa. The walls of the Tulsi Manas temple are engraved with verses and scenes from the Ramcharitmanas, the Hindi version of the Ramayana.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple is situated in the heart of spiritual capital of India, Varanasi. The temple is situated on the western bank of India’s holiest river Ganges. Kashi Vishwanath temple is the center of faith for millions of Hindus. The Jyotirlinga of Shiva, Vishweshwara or Vishwanatha, is enshrined in the Kashi Vishwanath temple, considered as one of the holiest temples of India. It is believed that a simple glimpse of the Jyotirlinga is a soul-cleansing experience that transforms life. “Darshan” of Vishweshwara Jyotirlinga is considered to merit more than the visit of other jyotirlingas, situated in various parts of India.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple attracts Hindu devotees and other visitors not only from India but also the world over. Lord Vishwanath is considered the supreme repository of the spiritual truth and strengthens the bonds of universal brotherhood.
Kashmir is labeled the “Paradise on Earth” and Srinagar is the summer capital of this paradise. That should suffice as the description of the Srinagar but I would still add some more. Srinagar etymologically means the city (nagar) of wealth (sri). It has a long history of 2000 and more. It was an independent kingdom at the time of partition of Indian mainland. Since Hari Sing decided to join Indian Union following Pakistani incursion Jammu Kashmir has remained a state of Indian Union.
Tourism is the main component of economy. Kashmir is one of the most favorite places in India among both domestic and international tourists. What attracts them to Kashmir? Nature? Mountains Snow Valleys Wildlife Lakes Gardens People Hospitality . Do I need to explain why people are so fascinated by the paradise? It is actually hard to believe unless you experience in person. It often leads all lists of top 10 hill stations in India.
Here is a list of places you could include in you Srinagar itinerary. We understand that it becomes hard when you have limited time unlimited enthusiasm. Choose wisely then. It would be a hard task picking one place and dropping the other. Good Luck.
Dal Lake is the second largest lake in Kashmir Valley and forms the lifeline of the city of Kashmir. Often quoted as the “jewel of Kashmir” Dal Lake is a unique ecosystem and center of tourism activity in the state. It is flanked by Mughal Garden and Nishat Garden, built by Mughal Emperor Jahangir – the great nature lover and patron of art. Do not forget to spend a night in the house boats and a Shikara ride. House boats and Shikaras along with the natural wetland flora forms the floating garden of Kashmir. Time just flies by as you take a leisurely ride of the little decorated boats on the smooth surface of Dal lake, enjoying the view of the boulevards around and mountains in the horizon.
One of the holiest Muslim Shrines in India, Hazratbal or Assar-e-Sharief is is preserving a relic that many believe to be the hair of Prophet Mohammad. It is located on the left flank of Dal Lake and commands deep respect among believers. You won’t miss it if you are strolling around the lake or taking a lazy ride in the Shikaras.
Considered the largest fresh water lake in Asia, Wular Lake is a major tourist attraction in Kashmir. It is located around 33 Kilometers form Srinagar city. This Lake is a natural wetland fed by river Jhelum and acts as a natural flood control mechanism too. Surrounded by lofty snow capped mountains and coniferous trees it provides the perfect setting for a boat ride, stroll or trek which ever you prefer.
Fish lover and Bird watchers are in for a delight. This area, along with the surrounding wetlands acts as a winter breeding and resting ground for migratory birds. Wular is house to a large no of resident birds and accounts for 60% of the state’s fish production.
There is an old 15th century ruin on a man made lake at the center which was created by King Zain-ul-abidin.
“Mughal Garden” is also an important place to visit in Srinagar. The garden is situated at the distance back from the lake. The garden can be reached by a small canal. ‘The Shalimar’ or the groups of garden were originally constructed by Emperor Jehangir for his wife Nur Jahan. It is also known as the ‘light of the world’. The flowers here are like lights as they blossom elegantly throughout the year. The garden is an identification sign of the royalty of Mughal era. The decoration of the place has remained the same as it was earlier. The place has been well preserved.
Srinagar is beautifully decorated with so many gardens. The colors of beautiful flowers enhance the beauty of the place. The place becomes more elegant because of the fragrance come from these flowers. After “Mughal Garden” it is one of the finest gardens in Srinagar. It is one of the top hottest destinations for the tourists. The garden is situated encircling the Dal Lake. Reportedly, the garden was built by Empress Nur Jahan’s brother Asaf Khan. The garden was built in the fond memory of Asaf Khan’s beloved sister Nur Jahan. Very famous the third Mughal Garden was reportedly established by Jehangir. ‘The Nishat Bagh’ is the garden with total 12 terraces representing the 12 different zodiac signs. People love to see the variations of different modes of zodiac and can relate with different columns of gardens.
Most of the people do know about the famous philosopher Shankaracharya. The Shankaracharya Temple is situated approximately one thousand feet above the city. Reportedly, the shrine is situated in the top most part of Srinagar. It is one of the very important places to visit. There are many followers of philosopher Sankaracharya. They generally wish to visit the place. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Reportedly, the place existed from the dates back to 2,500 BC. According to history, the philosopher Shankaracharya stayed at this place in the time when he visited Kashmir. The personality visited Kashmir approx ten centuries ago and he came to revive “Sanatan Dharma”.
Hari Parbat is also known as Sharika Hill in earlier times. There was a big fort which was established in the 18th century. The fort is clearly visible and situated in the increasing portion to the west of Dal Lake. The big famous Dal Lake is clearly visible from the Sharika Hill. History says, the fort was constructed by Atta Mohammed Khan in 1776. But according to the archeological department the surrounding wall of the fort is much older. Reportedly, the wall was built between 1592 and 1598 during the Akbar rule.
Image Credits : 
commons.wikimedia.org
The “garden city of the country” is not just named for this astounding place in India, it’s really meant. Bangalore, currently the IT capital of the nation and a land of endless opportunities, is a dream city for many.India’s India’s third most populous city and Fifth-most populous urban agglomeration, Bangalore is Carved in the Deccan Plateau at an altitude of 949 meters (3113 ft.) above sea level, Bangalore derived its name from Bendha Kaalu” (which means boiled beans in the local language Kannada). King Veera Ballala of the Vijayanagara kingdom was once lost in a forest. An old woman that lived there could offer the starving king only boiled beans “Bendha kaalu” and the place came to be known as “Bendha kaaLu ooru” (ooru in Kannada means a city). The modern city of Bangalore was founded by the Kempe Gowda, the Vijayanagar Chieftain of Yelahanga, over 400years ago. Known for its greenery and the climate, Bangalore else known as the silicon valley of India provides some of the best tourist attractions and amazing historical monuments that sing the saga of the city.
Built in granite, this mammoth and picturesque building serves the center for all major political proceedings of the state. This 46m high complex houses 22 departments and 300 rooms. The sculptures of 4 headed lions on the gateway of the building represent the symbol of Indian sovereignty. Dressed in the beauty of lights, it holds special visits for its viewers every Sunday evening.
Near to the MG road, lies the Cubbon Park built by Lord Cubbon in the year 1864. with major attractions being the lush green patches, blossoming rows of flowers, and some structural buildings, the Cheshire Dyer Memorial Hall, Ottawa Chatter, Museum, Century Club and the Press Club are too other attractions around. One can relax in here away from the chaos and alohas of the city enjoying some of the best moments with Mother Nature. The aquarium is housed inside an octagonal-shaped building at the entrance and boasts of having an exotic variety of aquatic life. A beautifully planned amusement park as well as recreation center for children, the Bal bhavan’s center of attraction is the small train running inside the park The battalion and the army quarters on the Cubbon road provide discipline around the area.
In the heart of the city lies this small replica of the Windsor castle in England built by Rev Garrett who was the first principal of the central high school in Bangalore. The palace bought in 1884 by the maharaja of Mysore, chamaraja Wodeyar, the palace is currently owned by the scion of the Mysore royal family Srikanta Datta Narsimharaja Wadiyar. The palace is known for its style and elegancy. The durbar hall in the first floor contains a massive elephant head structure. The sprawling ground around the palace known as the Palace grounds can accommodate thousands of people is often a favored location for stage events. The international fames like rolling stones, Bryan Adams, Elton john and Joe Satriani have staged their shows with thousands of applauding fans. Mayhem, the Norwegian black metal band is scheduled to perform here in Feb. 2010.
One of the India’s well known botanical garden and an amazing tourist attraction, Lalbagh is an evidence of why Bangalore is named as the garden city. Spread over 240 acre, lalbagh was commissioned in 1760 by the then ruler of mysore, Hyder Ali and then was completed by his son Tipu Sultan. The glass house at the center is one of the major tourist attractions. The garden accommodates a small rocky hill on which one of the four kempegowda tower is held. The bagh also contains a lake which adds up to the attractions. While strolling in the bagh one can even relish on some natural fruit nectar. The flower shows in January and august allures millions of audience.
Situated just opposite the Vidhan Soudha, Attara Kacheri is well known for its gothic style of architecture. Also known as the High Court Building, this European classical style was built under the reign of Tipu Sultan, the emperor of Mysore. The name Attara kacheri meaning eighteen offices or departments was given by Tipe sultan himself.
Witnessing the arduous struggle against the british, this fort dates back to the year 1537. built by kempegowda and then extended by Tipu Sultan. History says, Hyder Ali imprisoned David bird and some army officials of the british in this fort. The major attractions in this fort is carved arches built as per the Islamic style, the well preserved ganapati temple inside and the palace of tipu sultan built entirely of teakwood as his summer residence. Situated near the city market, the fort visit can also be accompanied with some shopping.
On the west chord road, stands this neo classical style architecture of Sri Sri Radha Krishna Chandra temple, Iskcon’s largest temple complex across the World. Built in 1997, the Iskon temple is a major tourist attraction now. The folk program, the multi vision cinema, the dakshina kirti, the shila prabhupada museum are some of the major attractions of this temple complex. Free prasadam (a bowl of khichri) is given to each of its visitor. Recently started a bakery, the iskon egg less cakes and biscuits has become quite popular in Bangalore.
The major reason of bangalore’s greenery and the climate is the presence of lakes all around, known as the kheres. The Ulsoor Lake near M.G road is one of the major tourist attractions. Spread over an area of 1.5 square kilometers, it is famous for boating and the dotted islands. One can hire cruises and dock in any one of the island to spend some time with the nature.
The museum and the planetarium are also included as the major attractions of the city. The outskirts of Bangalore too provides a great source of tourist attractions. One can even go for trekking around. The Ooty and Mysore are nearby destinations for some amazing sight seeing.
