|
|
|
|
PLACES TO
VISIT IN INDIA |
Taj Mahal, Agra
The Taj Mahal in Agra is undoubtedly the zenith of Mughal architecture and one of the world's most marvellous buildings.
At its most alluring in the relative quiet of early morning, it is shrouded in mists and bathed with a soft red glow. As its vast marble surfaces fall into shadow or reflect the sun, its colour changes, from soft grey and yellow to pearly cream and dazzling white; it's well worth visiting at different times.
This play of light is an important decorative device, symbolically implying the presence of Allah, who is never represented in anthropomorphic form.
Legend has it that Shah Jahan decided to construct another Taj Mahal in black marble on the other side of the river Yamuna and to connect the two by a bridge. This structure was intended to be his own tomb.
Click here for tours to Taj Mahal
Red Fort, Delhi, India
Built in red sandstone, this imposing fort is the living symbol of the Mughal power. At the Lahore gate, the main entrance, sits a small bazaar, that was once open only to women on Thursdays during Mughal times.
The arcade leads to the Naubat Khana or the drum house. Above this is the Indian war memorial museum housing a rich collection of armors, guns and swords. The Dewan-i-Am or the place of public hearing and the Dewan-i-Khas, where the emperor met his ministers are of prime interest.
The Red Fort, is not just any historical monument; the Prime minister addresses the nation from here on Independence Day. A major attraction, Delhi Tourism organizes a light and sound show here, which narrates the history of the city in context of the Red Fort in the evening.
Click here for tours to Red Fort
Charminar, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh
Built by Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah, in honor of his wife, Bhagmati, the famous monument derives it's name from the four pillars surrounding the structure. Built in 1591, these 180-ft minars are classic reminders of the many ups and downs that Hyderabad has been witness to. Quli Qutub Shah built it to commemorate the end of plague in the state.
Elegant balconies, stucco decorations and the small mosque - one of the oldest mosques of the city -- Charminar is the pride of Hyderabad.
An underground path is believed to connect Charminar with the Golconda Fort. At the heart of the city, Charminar is surrounded by markets. Shahali Banda, Laad Bazaar, Kali Kaman and Patthar Gatti flank Charminar on its four sides.
Khajuraho Temples
Khajuraho, a monument to erotica is a unique example of Indo-Aryan architecture. The Chandela rulers between 950-1050 built these temples. There were 85 temples, which were built, and only 22 of them survive today.
Unlike other temples, Khajuraho is believed to have a theme, the celebration of the feminine form, her myriad moods and facets. There are carvings of a woman writing letter, applying makeup to her eyes, combing her tresses, dancing, and playing with her child. Innocent, coquettish, smiling, seductive, passionate and beautiful, all depicted in intricate detail, sharply etched, sculpted with consummate skill.
The temples are divided into three geographical groups: Western, eastern and southern. The western group are the most famous and the most typical of the Khajuraho temples.
Click here for tours to Khajuraho
Ajanta & Ellora Caves
Leaving Aurangabad on the craggy, rocky and barren terrain towards the Western ghats, there appear the 34 magnificent caves of Ellora. Built somewhere between 5th and 10th century A.D, the caves are numbered from North to South and can be divided into three distinct sections.
The first sixteen, carry Buddhist descriptions while 13 have mostly Hindu God and Goddess. Rest are dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras or Lord Mahavira. A 99 kms ride from Aurangabad are the Ajanta caves. Unlike Ellora, the 30 Ajanta caves are dedicated solely to Buddhism.
These caves were carved out between 2nd century B.C to 6th century A.D. Ajanta caves were hidden for a long time under the thick under growth till the 19 century, when they were accidentally discovered by a company of British Soldiers.
Click here for tours to Ajanta & Ellora
Golden Triangle Tours ||| Rajasthan Palace Tours ||| India Cultural Tours
Ladakh Travel ||| North Indian Cultural Tour ||| Mountaineering Tours in India
Rajasthan, Ajanta & Ellora Tours ||| Indian Wildlife Tours ||| Wildlife Photosafari Tours
Buddha Tours ||| Buddhist Travel Package ||| East India Tours ||| Beach Tour of India
Southern India Tours ||| Magic of India and Nepal Tours ||| North India and Nepal Tour
