Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Top 10 Coolest Places in World

1) Rogers Pass, USA

Rogers Pass is located in the US state of Montana,right along the continental divide. Rogers Pass had the coldest temperature ever recorded in the continental US when it dropped to a low of -69.7ºF on January 30, 1954. It is visited by thousands of adventure travelers every year who come here to enjoy the wilderness and to take part in winter sports in these cold temperatures.

2) Fort Selkirk, Canada

Fort Selkirk in Yukon, Canada is an established settlement and home to the Selkirk First Nation. It is one of the oldest settlements in the Yukon, and it was believed to have been established in the 1850s. It is an important stop along the Yukon River and today, it is managed as a historical site by the Yukon Department of Tourism and the Selkirk First Nation.

3) Prospect Creek, USA


Prospect Creek had the distinction of becoming the coldest place in the USA when the temperatures dropped to -79.8ºF on January 23, 1971. Located in Alaska, Prospect Creek's small established settlement is mainly due to the mining activities that took place in and around this area. A temporary housing settlement was established here during the construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System (TAPS) to house construction workers.

4) Snag, Canada


Located in the Yukon Territory of Canada, Snag is a small village that was inhabited by a handful of natives and military personnel until few decades ago. Now uninhabited, it was originally established during Canada's Klondike Gold Rush, and boasted a military arifield until 1968.

5) Eismitte, Greenland


Eismitte is located in the interior of Greenland and was the campsite of an Arctic expedition that took place during the early part of the twentieth century. Also known as mid-ice, Esmitte set a record for the having the second lowest temperature in Greenland when the barometer touched -85ºF.

6) North ice, Greenland


Northice is the name of a research station that was set up by the British in the northern part of Greenland. Northice holds the record for the lowest temperature in Greenland with its recorded temperature of -87ºF on January 9, 1954.
The temperature here went below -59.4ºF on 16 different days during a two-year period, making it one of the consistently coldest places in the world.

7) Verkhoyansk, Russia


Verkhoyansk is located in the Sakha Republic in Russia, near the Arctic Circle. Founded in 1638, it is one of the oldest towns in Russia. According to the 2010 census, there are about 1,300 people living in this cold community, where a record low of -90ºF was set in 1892. It also has one of the biggest temperature differences in the world with its winter averages around -50ºF and the summer temperatures at 73ºF.

8) Oymyakon, Russia


Located in the Sakha Republic of Russia, Oymyakon is a small village with a population of 472 according to the 2010 census. This is one of the coldest places in Russia and the ground is frozen all throughout the year. The lowest temperature ever recorded here was -96.2ºF in 1924. Antarctica is the only place that has temperatures lower than Oymyakon.

9) Plateau Station, Antarctica


Plateau Station is an American research base that is no longer in use. This was one of the most remote American stations in Antarctica and it was in operation for a brief three years from 1966 to 1969. It is about 4,000 meters above sea-level and was used for high-altitude viewing and research.

10) Vostok Station, Antarctica


Vostok Station in Antarctica is a Russian station near the south pole. It is at an altitude of 11,400 feet above sea level and is one of the most isolated places on Earth. Its lowest recorded temperature was -138.6º F, making it the coldest place in the world. Vostok is also characterized by a lack of moisture and oxygen. Usually, ten scientists live and work there all through the year to research the climate, topology and magnetic waves of the south pole.

Sunday, July 22, 2012

10 Wonderfull Tourist Attractions In Switzerland For Your Vacation

1. The Matterhorn


The Matterhorn is the tallest peak and is situated right on the border of Switzerland and Italy. It was the last of the Alps to be scaled by climbers, thanks to it’s impressive height. A cable car can be taken to one of the bases, to get a feel for the scale of this giant mountain. Visit this tourist attractions will gives you the great experience.

2. Swiss National Park


The Swiss National Park, founded in 1914, is the oldest in the Alps. This is one of the amazing Swiss tourist attraction. Swiss national park, covering nearly half the nation as a whole. It is a refuge for a variety of wildlife such as Elks, marmots and eagles.

3. The Chillon Castle


The Chillon Castle – Also known as the Chateau de Chillon, the Chillon Castle is one of the most famous castles in Switzerland located near Montreux. The castle become one of the best tourist attractions in Switzerland. It was home to the Count of Savoys from the 12th to the 14th century, and consists of 100 buildings, several dungeons, three courtyards and four great halls.

4. Zermatt


Being located at the base of the Swiss Alps makes this ski resort one of the most beloved. Although there are many beautiful ski resorts in Switzerland, Zermatt stands out as one of the top Switzerland tourist attractions because it is located at the foot of famous peak of the Swiss Alps.

5. The Tropical Alps


In this tourist attractions you will find palm trees here. Ticino is very close to Italy, and offers glaciers as well as palm trees. The culture is rich and diverse in this area, and is little known to those who don’t live in Switzerland.

6. Lake Geneva


Lake Geneva is one of the largest lakes in all of Europe, and lies near the French/Swiss border. The lake itself is a gorgeous destination, but the quaint nearby towns add to the charm of the area.

7. Interlaken


Be active in Interlaken. The city boasts countless recreational activities, from the more tame hiking and skiing to adventure sports like paragliding, bungee jumping, or even river rafting! With beautiful scenery surrounding the area, it is no surprise that most visitors head here to explore the great outdoors.

8. Zurich


You can’t forget about the 2000 year old town rich in history. Zurich is the city of Switzerland is full with trendy cafes, international boutiques, and the hustle and bustle of modern life.

9. The Rhine Falls


The Rhine Falls are located in the town of Schaffhausen, and are the largest waterfalls in all of Europe. Take in the stunning sights of these waterfalls from the several viewing platforms, or take a boat ride around the falls themselves, which are lit up each summer for a special celebration.

10. Aletsch glacier


This is the longest and most breathtaking glacier in the Alps at 23 km long. It is the easiest to access, and is the sight of the first UNESCO World Heritage site. This glacier is found in the western-southern part of Switzerland in the Aletsch region.

Friday, July 13, 2012

The best top 10 romantic honeymoon spots of the world


Honeymoon is a dream of a lifetime and people start thinking of it when they are teenagers. Now its time to make it real after marriage. But have you thought of how to make your honeymoon experience a remembrance of a lifetime. To achieve that goal of a dream honeymoon, you must choose from the best top 10 honeymoon spots of the world. The best honeymoon spots in world have all the ingredients to a successful and exciting honeymoon experience. Its not easy to plan a honeymoon because there are so much places to look for and also to have an eye on the budget. So, keeping these things in mind we have decided to help you out by choosing the top 10 best honeymoon destinations for an exciting romantic travel experience.


1. Skye, the paradise of Scotland: If you love the rain drops on a slate roof and dream of huge mountains with lakes in between for a honeymoon, you must visit Skye in Scotland. In the northwestern coast of Scotland lies this mysterious foggy island welcoming the adventurous honeymoon couples. All the villages here have big fireplace with beautiful inns and a traditional whisky for the visitors. What else you need with a scenic landscape drive in the daytime and a big fireplace with villagers singing and dancing beside you at night. The right place for couples, go and have a visit and so has made in oue 1st position for a honeymoon romantic travel.


2. Rome a romantic city: Amidst the big city life and crowds, Rome offers romantic couples the best of an urban honeymoon experience. Rome has been built over traditional methodologies with scenic gardens and historical masterpieces. It has live music venues and opera concerts, cafes and classic restaurants with a wonderful charm of the Roman Empire. Hotel de russie are one of the best hotels of the world and all of these, you find simply in Rome and so has been the second in our top 10 honeymoon spots.


3. Carribean Islands: The Carribean Islands are a bliss of wonder with volcanic mountains and green pastures all around along the sea waters. The villages are made near the volcanoes and it’s a hot thrilling experience for the honeymoon couples out there. Also this is the best vacation spots in the world and many tourists come to visit Dominica every year. Honeymoon near volcanoes and tropical forests with waterfalls, just wonder the experience you and your mate will gather for a lifetime.


4. Tahiti, the Polynesian experience: Tahiti is the largest of all islands of French Polynesia located in Society Islands archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean. It has a paradise in itself, thatched roof houses kissing the crystal clear Coral Sea beaches and small island hillocks full of greenery. Polynesian spas and restaurants are an added advantage to the excellent dream destination. Couples can scuba dive or get on a boat and have a wonderful experience along the islands.


5. Paris the lovers point: Paris has long been the center of attraction for honeymoon couples all over Europe and all over the world. It is considered to be one of the best place to visit mainly because of the Eiffel Tower and the warmth and affection the city and its people provide to visitors. Just to sit near the Eiffel Tower at sunset and watch the lights flash up cuddled by your mate is a wonderful experience one can ever miss. Luxemburg gardens and cruise travels with French cuisines make up for every dollar spent.


6. Hawaii, land of beautiful beaches: Sixth in our top 10 honeymoons spots is the Hawaii islands, a range of beautiful islands perfect for honeymoon visits. The romantic travel can start in any of the islands, but the Big island is preferable because of it is less crowded than others. Tropical waterfalls and lush green landscapes with meadows and thick rich forests are excellent for a honeymoon tracking. Kohala island and Kīlauea Volcano craters are a must visit in the Hawaiis.


7. Argentina, the wine country: With its gorgeous landscapes and lively culture, Argentina tops the seventh position in our honeymoon travel list. Argentina is less expensive than California or Europe in terms of wine and the couples can relax here with a shot of red wine and go for an Andes mountains tracking. Epic adventures are thrilling from Ushuia to Santiiago and charm up with some tango lessons.


8. Costa Rica, the tropical wonder: If a honeymoon couple wants to visit tropical forests and adventure though the rainforest, Costa Rica is the ultimate destination. Howlers monkeys to toucans you will get a glimpse of wildlife and get some great photoshoots. Also tree houses and canopy islands with volcanoes and beaches make Costa Rica the ultimate adrenaline experience for adventurous couples.


9. India, the Taj Mahal and Mughals: If you are thinking of an affordable and allaround unforgettable experience, just think no more and step out for India. You and your mate will be amazed with the variety of cultures in every state and the warmth welcome it possess. From the romantic Taj Mahal to the scenic Kerala, from the Himalayas to the exotic beaches of Goa so much to see and so much for an offering. You just cannot miss the Indian honeymoon experience.


10. Morocco, the ultimate natural landscape: Morocco is diverse in its culture as well as in its landscape. There are many places for a honeymoon couple to visit for ranging from the world’s tallest mosque minaret to the massive Sahara sand dunes. The great cities of Marrakesh and Roman ruins will certainly overwhelm a honeymoon couple with the Islamic welcome style.

Though the top 10 honeymoon spots of the world are according to the reports of travel expertise, the ultimate decision lies on the newly-wed couple. Remember love and affection is the best experience in any honeymoon tour and the romantic travel just strengthens the relation more effectively. So, get on to the top 10 honeymoon spots with the bond of love and care followed by a lifelong happy relationship.

Sunday, July 08, 2012

Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations in India


Looking for a special destination for that special someone in your life?

Well, you got it here! Couples worldwide come to India to spend a splendid time with the most beautiful person in their life. India offers a multitude of choices from mountains to beaches, to forts and gardens to start your relationship with a romantic essence.

To make your honeymoon the most cherishing and exciting moment of your life, we present below the top 10 honeymoon destinations in India.

Lakshadweep Islands:

The pristine coral paradise of Lakshadeep with a tinge of bluish-green waters is an exotic archipelago in the Arabian Sea. It possesses everything required for a perfect honeymoon. Lakshadweep Islands lives up to the expectation as the best romantic destination in India.

Honeymooning in Lakshadweep will turn your fantasy into real-life experience. This sparsely inhabited land has extraordinary beautiful ambience setting stage for an incredible romantic vacation. You can relax on the beaches of this wonder world amidst the sound of the roaring waves, the rustling sound of the swaying palm tree, and the amazing marine life.

The most romantic place to stay at Lakshadweep would be the beach cottages. Your window will give you an amazing view of long stretch of white sand and Palm trees. You can step out for sunbathing or building sand castle. If you are adventurous, you can engage in snorkeling, diving, or maybe parasailing. Otherwise you can head off on a boat scrutinizing the natural lagoons, enchanting coral reefs and visiting the fantastic Bangaram and Agatti. An experience that is indescribable is a bird’s eye view of Lakshadweep Islands through the helicopter rides.

The adventurous sports along with a wonderful combination of scenic splendor adds a special dimension to the island Lakshadweep. The matchless beauty of these emerald islands will certainly overwhelm each honeymoon couple. This solitude island will provide the newly weds with ethereal moments of sheer wonder and bliss.

Andaman & Nikobar Islands:

If you are dearly looking to find a pleasurable and romantic start to your life then Andaman & Nicobar Islands would be the best choice. This is the place, where you could find opportunities to spent quality time with each other.

Exploring this island is a mesmerizing experience by itself and the coconut palms surrounding the coastline add zest for rejoicing and merriment. You can spend an excellent time by visiting the stunning places of these islands. The fabulous company of your beloved one will enable you to look at the island from a different perspective.

The island hotels are extremely pleasant and peps-up your mood with tastefully done up rooms. You can enjoy both North Indian and South Indian food. The pleasant and soothing climate is ideal for the romantic mood. This island is neither very hot nor very cold either. If you are planning to take a romantic trip, December to April would be an ideal choice because of pleasant weather.

The bravura of the Andaman and Nicobar islands will provide you with more than just a week of fun, togetherness and relaxation. Romantic getaways to these islands of Andaman and Nicobar will grant you with memories of special moments, memories that will carry on for a lifetime. A blend of natural beauty, stunning marine life and adventure sports will make your stay peaceful and pleasurable one.

Goa:

The setting sun, miles upon miles of golden sand, coconut palms playing with the wind. This is the charm of Goa. If having a great time with a dear one is on your mind, Goa is the perfect place for togetherness. Multi-cuisine restaurant, clean and secluded beaches make Goa an ideal setting for romance and relaxation.

The lush natural beaches, excellent infrastructure and facilities, warm and welcoming people - all add to the special magic of Goa. A 131-km long coastline means choices are aplenty. Visit Anjuna for its lively flea market, Palolem for water sports and Calangute and Dona Paula for shopping, nightlife, food and drink. Head to Vagator, where dramatic red cliff looks down on the shore. These unique features make Goa the coolest hot spot for honeymooners.

Life in Goa is full of song, dance and merriment to the lilting beat of guitar and drum. It’s peaceful and serene here, just the right atmosphere for the lazing holiday-maker seeking Sun-n-sand, food-n-wine.

Goa is a hot honeymoon destination not just for celebrities, but also for foreign and domestic tourists who want to associate the most important event of their lives with the picturesque settings of one of the beautiful states of India. Goa has a little bit of everything, both for the extrovert and as well as the introvert. Goa gives the opportunity to newlyweds to savor it their way and to keep its landscape etched in their heart forever.

Kovalam:

With natural beauty at its best, planning your honeymoon in Kovalam is no brainer. Rows of swaying coconut trees are lined along the sandy beaches of Kovalam. Chatting and relaxing under the palm trees with swishing sound of the waves and the breeze in the background will add a romantic touch.

Taking long walks with your dear one, relaxing beneath the swaying coconut palm, sunbathing and trying luscious seafood are some of the common activities that couples can join in.

A canopy of lush green vegetation to shade you, and the gentle swoosh of your boat sliding through Kovalam’s jewel-green backwaters is an idyllic, and perhaps an unusual way to explore the place with your spouse. A luxurious boat-ride gives you a fascinating glimpse of village life in the little town.

Adventurous couples can jointly participate in water sports like kayaking, swimming, surfing, waterskiing and kayaking.

With its expertise in ayurvedic techniques over centuries, Kovalam makes sure you pamper yourself and leave in the pink of health. While every hotel will offer at least a rejuvenation package, for more specialized treatment, you can head to any of the renowned ayurveda centres.

It is said that the best things in life are free. With Kovalam renowned for its cerulean colored water, silky sand, beautiful beaches, and lush green coconut trees, you’ll start believing in this adage. These natural and romantic surrounding add luster and vibrance and make your moment with your loved one captivating and delightful.

Srinagar:

The lush valleys, sparkling lakes, high mountains and beautiful scenery make Srinagar a tempting place for honeymooners. Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is a very popular honeymoon destination. It is a perfect place to start you life in the wonderful company of your partner.

No hotel in the world can compete with the charm of the shikaras (houseboats) in Dal Lake. The most luxurious ones are furnished with the finest carved walnut wood, hand-embroidered fabrics and carpets; a passionate place for the honeymooning couple. The amazing view of snow-covered mountains by the side will make the experience a memorable one.

The grandeur of the charming Mughal gardens of Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh and Chashma Shahi will add color and radiance to happy moments of your life. The sight of fresh flowers, tempting fragrance emanating from them will help you to unwind and enjoy every minute of your honeymoon in Srinagar.

The gigantic mountains and thick pine forests add splendor to the already charming city. Beautiful lakes, charming rivers, lofty glaciers, and pleasant weather throughout the year make it an ideal destination for newly weds. A holiday in this paradise, glittering in nature’s beauty will linger in the minds of the visitors for long.

Darjeeling:

In the refreshing hilly air of Darjeeling, acres of tea plantation will offer you a majestical and cherishable honeymoon like no other destination. The narrow hilly path of Darjeeling leading to beautiful quaint spots has a magical effect. The red and golden hues of the sunrays early in the morning give a spectacular effect to this hilly region. The picturesque land in the east India, although remote, is a charming honeymoon spot.

You can plenty to do in Darjeeling. Catch the spectacular view of the Kanchenjunga from the Tiger hills early in the morning. Visit the elegant monasteries of Darjeeling. Take a leisurely walk amid the tea bushes observing tea pickers at work and watching fresh tea leaves converted into tea. It is this amazing experience of this secluded region that makes it popular among honeymoon couples.

The poignant, multifarious scenery and astounding beauty of Darjeeling will make your honeymoon an experience that will linger in your memories for a lifetime. The exotic fir forest, the emerald green tea plantations, undulating hillsides and the white magnolias add magnificence to this rightly called ‘Queen of all Hill Stations’. It gives honeymooners respite from the usual cacophony of our day-to-day life.

Whether you prefer to relax, adventure or savor the flora and fauna of this region, Darjeeling is really a traveler’s delight. River rafting and canoeing are also widespread in Darjeeling apart from mountaineering and trekking.

Invigorating environment with splendid view of the beautiful valleys and the breathtaking view of the sunrise and sunset makes Darjeeling qualify as the most popular honeymoon destination.

Jodhpur:

Jodhpur offers a unique honeymoon experience sans the run-of-the-mill mountains and beaches. If you are a couple who are fascinated by the rustic villages, heritage structures and palaces, Jodhpur is where you want to go.

You can explore this ancient land of loyalty, dedication and love through unique village safaris. These village safaris will take you to the interiors of the village and give you ample opportunities to mingle with the locals. The newly weds will be spellbound by the architectural splendor of the majestic forts and palaces. Jodhpur is filled with romantic legends and sagas. Bejeweled camels, enthralling havelis and colorful crafts will add glamour to your honeymoon.

Some of the palaces, which have now been converted to hotels, are best to stay in. This will add a touch of yesteryears passion to your honeymoon period. The hotels of Jodhpur have the right historic ambience that will set the atmosphere right for a splendorous romance.

You can embark on a romantic excursion to the lakes and historic spots and spend time together as you begin to bond on this land of lovers. Include tours to Umaid Bhawan Palace, Phool Mahal, Mehrangarh Fort, Balsamand Lake and Mandore Gardens in the honeymoon itinerary. The romantic destinations of Jodhpur will leave a romantic spell on the honeymoon couple.

Don’t forget to pick traditional handicrafts, jewelry and textile items of this region while you are on a shopping spree.

Choose Jodhpur as your destination and this land will bear testimony to your love story, as it has been doing to love stories since age-old times.

Coorg

Honeymooning in the intoxicating and invigorate beauty of Coorg would be a wise choice if a secluded getaway is what the couple is looking for. The orange orchards, the refreshing aroma of coffee and acres of verdant greenery is ideally suited for a cozy honeymoon. Your time here promises to be loads of fun. So look no further for a holiday that rejuvenates and offers tons of peace.

Coorg’s evergreen dense forest on the southern range of the Western Ghats and the plantation that cover this landscape make the visual imagery mystically charming with a chilling eeriness to it. At the bottom of the hill slopes under canopies of huge trees are grown orange, black pepper, anthurium flowers, paddy and cardamom and coffee. These plantations exude a heady fragrance setting the atmosphere right for a romantic getaway.

Sprawling in the midst of cloud-wreathed hills, this misty town is a haven for walkers. Coorg can be visited around the year owing to its pleasant weather.

Accommodations at the well-networked home stays are usually run by the well-off local population who own plantations around Coorg. These spacious homes built inside the estates promise an even more tranquil experience for the newly weds. A home stay will also provide the best opportunity to savor the mouthwatering spice-rich Coorgi cuisine.

This one-traffic signal town is the ideal destination for honeymoon with a tempting combination of solitude and fresh air minus the frills and fanfare of what most typically tourist spots have to offer.

Ooty:

Located on the Nilgiri hills and surrounded by blue mist, Ooty is probably the most celebrated honeymoon destination in India. And rightly so. Plethora of beautiful flowers on the hilly slopes, splendid tea and cardamom plantation and mist covered mountains indeed make Ooty a very romantic place.

Ooty is serene enough for lovebirds that are looking forward to a quiet retreat. You can pick a start to your day among a romantic walk into the dense forest or a gorgeous mountain trails. Complement it with a visit to beautiful spots of Doddabetta Peak and Ketty Valley. You could also gallop on ponies wandering through the Blue Mountains. Top it with a romantic meal in the woods. Waterfalls arising out of the blue and sight of variety of bird species add to the excitement.

In your spare time, you can visit the botanical garden and glance at the incredible collection of shrubs, trees and beautiful collection of roses. For couples wanting to join in some action, venture into the lakes and spend time together in the pedal boats. A ride in the mini blue train which will take you through the eucalyptus forest and tea plantations is a must.

The abundant flowers, lushy vegetation and majestic hills add charm to this quaint hill-station. Ooty is perfect place for couples who like to be in the lap of nature.

Shimla:

Shimla is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations of India. The moment you enter, you’ll be greeted with salubrious climate, and picturesque green hills with snow peaks surrounded by thick forests of fir, pine and oak making it a favorite among honeymoon couples.

To the delight of the visitors, Shimla has gorgeous views of the Himalayas, trips to the surroundings countryside coupled with excellent hotels and impressive vestiges of its colonial past in the old vice regal Lodge, the Mall and the Christ Church with its stained glass windows. For more energetic entertainment, hit the indoor roller-skating rink in Lakkar bazaar or go open-air ice-skating above the Rivoli Bus stand.

Easy accessible, good infrastructure and numerous places of attractions make Shimla a worthwhile destination. The gushing sound of streams, swaying fields, natural surroundings as well as man-made edifices accompanied by tranquility and peace will make honeymoon in Shimla pleasurable. The extravagance and solace of Shimla has made it a crowd-puller.

Shimla’s enchanting beauty is available all around the town. Exotic places of interest like the Chadwick falls, Jakhoo hill, Summer hill, Prospect hill add romance to Shimla honeymoon. Affordable hotels are also available to suit every couple’s budget.

Shimla has plenty to offer trekking enthusiasts as well as those looking for easy hikes and scenic drive. You can view some of the most beautiful mountainscapes and flower-filled meadows in Shimla. A drive around Shimla will take you to rustic villages, river gorge, temples and pastures. Exploring Shimla with your beloved will add zing to your romantic holiday.

Tuesday, July 03, 2012

Famous temples in India

Golden Temple

Amritsar:
Amritsar, literally means the Pool of Nectar. Amritsar derieves its name from Amrit Sarovar, the holy tank that surrounds the fabulous Golden Temple. The Sikh cult largely dominate the city. During centuries, this complex of Sikh culture grew from a sacred village pond into a spiritual-temporal center. The passionate pilgrims of the faith of Guru Nanak (15th century), who united Hindu and Muslim elements and initiated a reformation, flocked here generation after generation.

History unfolded:
Guru Arjan Sahib, the Fifth Nanak, conceived the idea of creating a central place of worship for the Sikhs and he himself designed the architecture of Golden temple also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib. Guru Arjan Sahib got its foundation laid by a muslim saint Hazrat Mian Mir ji of Lahore in December 1588. The construction work was directly supervised by Guru Arjan Sahib himself and he was assisted by the prominent Sikh personalities like Baba Budha ji, Bhai Gurdas ji, Bhai Sahlo ji and many other devoted Sikhs.
Front View of Golden Temple
Side View of Golden Temple

Meenakshi Temple

Tamil Nadu- Madurai:
Thousands of temples with lofty towers dot the skyline of the southernmost state of Tamilnadu in India. These temples are torchbearers of the glorious heritage of the Tamil speaking region. Madurai is called the `Athens of the East' because of the way myth meets life here. Legends of warrior princesses, the gods falling in love and divine promises abound. Originally called Madhurapuram because honey (madhu) is said to have dripped off the locks of Shiva here, Madurai is now the second largest city in Tamil Nadu. is now among the most important pilgrimages for Hindus.

History Revisited:
The original temple was built by Kulasekara Pandya, but the entire credit for making the temple as splendid as it is today goes to the Nayaks. The Nayaks ruled Madurai from the 16th to the 18th century and left a majestic imprint of their rule in the Meenakshi-Sundareswarar Temple.


Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam: The tank has a mandapam at the centre enshrining Lord Vigneshwara. In this tank, float festival is conducted in January/February.
Tirumalai Naik Palace: Tirumalai Naik palace is a gracious edifice built in the Indo-Saracenic style famous for the stucco-work on its domes and arches. Here Sound and Light shows are being conducted by the Department of Tourism.

Ranakpur Jain Temples

Ranakpur: Ranakpur is located in the mountain ranges of Pali district, 23 kms. away from the Phalna railway station. Ranakpur in the state of Rajasthan, is one of the five most important pilgrimage sites of Jainism. Amidst the sandy land stands the Chaturmukh Jain Temple of Rishabhadev or The Ranakpur Jain Temple.
Location: Ranakpur complex is one of the biggest and most important Jain temples in India, the extremely beautiful. Ranakpur is located about 56 miles north of Udaipur. It lies in a remote and quiet valley of the Aravalli Range 60 km from Udaipur.
The past: Ranakpur is one of the five holiest places of the Jain community and spectacular in architecture. It is probably the most complex and extensive of Jain temples in India. The Ranakpur Jain Temple were built under the reign of monarch Rana Kumbha in the 15th century and is the largest Jain temple in India.
Key attractions:

Kumbhalgarh: It is the most important fort in the Mewar region after Chittaurgarh. A historical site around 30 km northeast of Ranakpur. The other important place to visit in Kumbhalgarh is a wildlife sanctuary known for its wolves.
Sadri: 8 km away, Sadri is famous for some beautiful temples and an old dargah of Khudabaksh Baba. The Varahavtar temple and the Chintamani Parsvanath temple are the oldest of the temples situated here.

Somnath Temple Gujarat: Gujarat, the 'Jewel of the West,' is a tourist destination that offers something for every visitor. A journey through Gujarat unfolds a religious, cultural and historical panorama. The state with the longest coast line (1290km) in the country is renowned for its beaches, holy temples, historic capitals replete with immense architectural assets, wildlife sanctuaries and hill resorts. However the famous Somnath temple here is an exemplar of architectural splendor.
Location: Somnath at Somnath Patan, near Veraval in Gujarat is a pilgrimage center held in great reverence throughout India. Somnath is considered to be the first of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiva. Somnath Gujarat is situated on the south coast of Saurashtra.
Prime locations:
Palitana Jain Temple
Traditional Pithora Mural

Thanjavur Temple
The Granary of South India, Thanjavur was the royal city of the Cholas, Nayaks and the Mahrattas in the ancient India. Thanjavur or Tanjore reached the acme of art & culture and development during the rule of the Chola king, Rajaraja Cholan. Even today, Thanjavur is remains to be the center of all the classical arts and music. This city has produced many classical musicians and bharathanatyam dancers and is also well known for its unique painting style called Tanjore Painting.

Thanjavur boasts of numerous beautiful temples and the Big Temple of Thanjavur stands tall with its beaming tower. It's one of the architectural marvels of the world. Known for its exquisite handicrafts, bronzes and south Indian Musical Instruments, Thanjavur is also famous for its distinctive art style and world famous weaving silk sarees.

Key Attractions:

The Palace

The Palace The Palace of Thanjavur, located near the temple is a vast structure of masonry built partly by the Nayaks around 1550 AD and party by the Marathas. This the architecture of this palace is worth seeing. Two of the palace towers, the armoury and the observation tower are visible from every part of the city. The palace also houses an art gallery, a library and a hall of music.
Brihadeshwara Temple & Fort

Built by great Chola king in the 10th century AD, Brihadeshwara Temple & Fort is an exquisite example of Chola architecture and is listed in world heritage. A monolithic cupola made of a single granite block weighing 80 tons covers the head of the temple. The cupola was taken to the top by being pulled on a 6 km long inclined ramp, a technique used by pyramid builders of Egypt. For over thousand years, the temple has been the centre of continuous worship. Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the temple.