The Land of the Asiatic Lions- Gujarat

If you ever ask a person their top things to do in life, more often than not you will not be surprised by getting a response of ‘travel’ being on top of their list. Every avid traveller or a person who wishes to explore new places will have a list of places that they would like to explore and be a part of. India as a country offers innumerable choices to that very traveller to explore and revel in. Every part of the country offers something extraordinary and something very unique from the other parts of the country. One such state that is a sheer delight to visit and explore is Gujarat. A state full of surprises along with multiple picturesque locales, Gujarat is one state that should be explored while touring India. 

There are many beautiful facets to this western destination that range from plush foliage to dense forests, shimmering beaches to monumental places of worship and so one. A travel to the state of Gujarat will definitely leave some pleasant memories in your mind that will stay with you for a long time. With multiple cities to visit and exquisite monuments and ancient heritage to explore, Gujarat offers innumerable accommodation options to you as a tourist. You can explore the beautiful land of the exotic Asiatic Lions by choosing from the various accommodation options around the state. For the budget traveller, there are many budget accommodation options in Gujarat that can be booked round the year. The pleasant aura of the cities and the unforgettable monuments leave strata of pride in your memory that leave you mesmerized throughout your journey.

The budget accommodation options in Gujarat provide you with good and hygienic amenities that you would require during your visit to the city or cities of the state. With good interiors, warm hospitality and good cuisine options, budget accommodations in Gujarat have flourished and changed the city scape to a great extent. You can enjoy spending some quiet time with your spouse on your honeymoon and be sure to have warm hospitality meted to you or you can choose to have a lavish family outing with your folks, all within you budget. Some chains of budget hotels that you can opt from are – Savshanti hotels, Budget Inn Chain of Hotels, Ginger hotels, Sarovar Portico, Comfort Inn, etc. 

You can visit the city at your own pace, enjoy the beautiful landscape and amazing sightseeing options around the holiday destination and enjoy a pleasant stay in the hotel, without hampering your budget.

Budget accommodations in Gujarat create a perfect blend for the travellers wishing to explore more of the city than spend huge amounts on just accommodation. Every city has different budget accommodation options hence it would be advisable to pre-book it through a good travel planner before checking in. Enjoy a memorable stay exploring the various cities of Gujarat along with a budgeted stay!

The City of Temples- Varanasi

The oldest living city of the world- Varanasi or Kashi or Banaras, can easily be considered at the top pilgrim destination for Hindus from across the world. Situated on the banks of River Ganga, this magnificent city of Gods is an epitome of culture and heritage that has stood the test of time and age and is now one of the most revered sacred cities of the world. The effervescence of Varanasi is defined by the age old history and tradition that defines the city itself. Though the exact time of origin of Varanasi cannot be defined however the history of Varanasi or Kashi- as mentioned in Rig-Veda is said to be in existence since the creation of Mankind and is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and his consort Goddess Parvati. A visit to the shores of the River Ganges flowing through Varanasi is said to rid all mortals of their sins and cleanse your soul of all evil. 

Words will never be enough to gather the magnificence of this city of temples where religions have co-existed harmoniously for centuries. Even with the Mughal invasion and the plundering of temples by Mohammad Ghauri, the city has arisen from all adversity and brings peace to mind, body and soul of the pilgrim and tourists. You can visit and sit at the Ghats or shores of the river in Varanasi and experience such tranquillity that encompasses you with positive energy and leaves you mesmerized. The continuous chanting of Shloks or prayers from the temples of Varanasi leaves you in a peaceful state of mind throughout your trip to this holy city. The origins of many astute figures and founders in history have their origins in Varanasi. It is not only sacred to Hindus but also Jains and Muslims. It is said to be the birthplace of the 23^rd Tirthankar of Jainism, Parshvanath, The Theosophical Society of India founded by Dr. Mrs. Annie Besant is said to have its origins from Varanasi; it is home to the largest university in Asia founded by erstwhile educationist Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya- Banaras Hindu University (BHU); The origins of the famous natural stream of medicine- Ayurveda, is said to have its humble beginnings and origins in Varanasi as well and Lord Buddha- the founder of Buddhism is said to have delivered his first sermon at Sarnath, near Varanasi. With innumerable accolades and a glorious past, the history of Varanasi leaves the visitors in a state of awe and beckons you to come back for more. While in Varanasi you may like to visit the important temples and religious structures like Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat and other pious Ghats of Varanasi, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Durga Temple, Gyanvapi Mosque, Bharat Mata Temple, Kalabhairav temple, Alamgir Mosque also known as Beni Mahadev ka Darera, etc. 

An utter state of equanimity surrounds you while visiting the holy city of Varanasi!

Pride of Garhwal and Kumaon- Jim Corbett National Park

Having been to a place that gives you perfect tranquillity and a sense of balance, Jim Corbett National Park serves as a perfect setting for a great holiday. With many tour packages today available for Jim Corbett, there has been a great influx in tourism in this region. You can go for a weekend and enjoy a peaceful holiday or you can plan a wonderful long vacation to Jim Corbett by including destinations close to the National Park. Whatever your desire, Jim Corbett National Park gives you every reason to come back again and again to just relax and rejuvenate yourself. With the growth in tourism at the national park come many options for accommodation to choose from! Whether you want to spend your time at a luxury accommodation or at a budget one, Jim Corbett National Park offers you a multitude of options fitting your pocket. 

The land of the Tigers, Jim Corbett National Park attracts thousands of tourists every year from all corners of the world to experience the delightful environment of these nature’s predators. While planning a holiday at Jim Corbett, make sure that you have your hotel or resort reservations booked in advance to avoid last minute disappointments. To observe and enjoy many wonderful wildlife species along with a variety of reptiles and birds, are a specialty of the park. You can make this tour even more splendid by opting for the accommodation of your choice and budget. You can take a glance at the number of accommodation options available at Jim Corbett and then pick your preference. Few options to choose from are- The Hridayesh Spa and Wellness Resort, The Golden Tusk, Brys Caves, The Corbett Hideaway, Aranya Safari Resort, 3 Palms Wild Exotica, Aamod Spa and Resort, Corbett Aroma park, Corbett Riverside Resort, Corbett River Creek, Corbett Woods Resort, Corbett Wild Iris Spa and Resort, Country Inn Corbett, Infinity Corbett Wilderness, The Den, Le Roi Resort Corbett Health Retreat, Jaagar- Village Resort, Jukaso- Manu Maharani Resort, The Riverview Retreat, The Solluna Resort, Mapple Leisure Resort, Wood Castle resort and spa, Tarika Jungal Park, etc. which are all 4 star and 5 star accommodations.

You can also choose from a wide variety of budget and cheap Jim Corbett tour accommodation options such as – Ashoka’s Tiger Trail Resort, Corbett International Spa and Health Resort, Corbett Comfortable Resort, Corbett Adventure Resort, Corbett Jungle Club Resort, Corbett Machaan resort, Corbett Suman Grand, Corbett Leela Vilas, Corbett Tiger Den Resort, Corbett Treff, Hotel Corbett Wilds, La Perle River Resort, Jim’s Jungle Resort, Pine Tree Resort, Tarangi Resort, The Tiger Groove, Serenity Corbett Resort, Escape Corbett Resort, Parwati Wild Abode, Corbett Roop Resort, Kamya Safari Resort, Corbett Wild Retreat and Camps, Tiger Camp, etc. These hotels provide you with options of guided safari of the jungle along with a promising stay.

Escape into the realms of the park and enjoy an enthralling vacation with family and friends!

Jantar Mantar In Varanasi Is A Marvel Of Ancient Indian Science

Ancient Indian scholars and astronomers have always been fascinated with the planets and stars and there are texts that have details on the various studies that have been done on these. From manually observing the changing seasons and the effects of the planetary positions on these seasons to maintaining a record of these observations, the studies on planets and especially the sun have been continuous. Before the advent of technology and satellite pictures, Indian scholars and astronomers had built observatories to study the movements of the sun and other relevant planets. Some of the noted observatories are in Delhi, Jaipur, Ujjain, Mathura and in Varanasi. 

The Jantar Mantar in Varanasi was built by the Raja of Jaipur, Jai Singh in 1737 and he was well known as a keen astronomer and as someone interested in science and technology. Records indicate that he sent his scholars abroad to observe observatories and they returned armed with many manuals on astronomy and the latest findings from their visits. He then started work on the Jantar Mantar in Varanasi based on the ones already existing in different places in India. The main purpose of the Jantar Mantar was to study the stars and the planets, the declination of the stars, the Suns declination and altitude and importantly to measure time. Many instruments were built of masonry that recorded the motion of the stars and planets along with their speed and to further study astronomy, the most relevant fact about the Jantar Mantar in Varanasi is that it is still relevant today and is as efficient as it was when it was first built. Its most important structure is the equatorial sundial that is installed allowing for an in depth study of the suns movements that also helped in anticipating the next eclipse.

The accuracy in the geometry here has fascinated historians and astronomers and records show that there were yantras or instruments here too like the Ram Yantra, Samrat Yantra, Disa Yantra, Krantivritta Yantra etc. This structure must be a definite stop on ones itinerary while in Varanasi and it is situated quite close to the famous Dasavamedha Ghat. Varanasi is also a very ancient city, reputed to be among the oldest living city in the world and is a sacred city for Hindus. It has an importance in Buddhism as well as for the Jains and sees thousands of visitors every day. Many people come here for the religious experience while others come to see and to experience the unique feeling that this fascinating city has. Varanasi is also known as the Lord Shiva’s favorite place on earth and his devotees come here to pay homage to him as well as to the Goddess Ganga who is found here in the form of the holy river, Ganga.

Visit the ancient temples and the Ghats of this city as well as the Jantar Mantar in Varanasi to get a glimpse of the various facets of this incredible place.

Aavo Padharo – Maaro Gujarat

Planning a holiday has never been an easy task. In today’s world, with the advent and growth of each state in and around India, tourism too has reached new heights. But if you are planning a holiday that will give you a complete package that includes adventure, wildlife, leisure and tradition, then Gujarat is the place to be! Gujarat, a quintessential epitome of tourism and wonderful sights, has taken the world tourist circuit by a storm. Gujarat is blessed with many aspects to its credit that make it easier or difficult for you to choose your choice of place and holiday. There are innumerable holiday destinations in Gujarat that cater to all your needs and help you take back memories that are unforgettable. 

Gujarat Tourism has grown steadily over the years and with the advent of many tourists from world over, visiting Gujarat atleast once is definitely recommended. You can enjoy a quite holiday around the coastal belt of Gujarat or enjoy the historical monuments that are constructed in the cities of this magnificent state or simply enjoy the wild side of nature by visiting its numerous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. Whatever your requirement, tourism Gujarat helps you live that and much more. Enjoy the tradition and heritage of Gujarat by visiting forts at Uparkot in Junagarh, Surat Castle in Surat, Pavagadh fort and ancient temples of Champaner-Pavagadh, Lakhota Palace and museum at Jamnagar, Palaces of Bhuj, Lothal, Jamnagar, Kutch, etc.; Step wells of Junagarh, Mehsana, Ahmedabad, Pavagadh, Patan, Bhuj, etc.; Beautiful places of worship like Sun Temple of Somnath, Gomati Ghat Temple at Dwarka, Ambaji Temple at Ambaji, Siyot Caves, Koteshwar Temple, Narayan Sarovar at Northeast Kutch, Jain Temples at Patan, Mt. Girnar at Junagarh, Siddhshila, Kotishila, at Taranga Hills, beautiful temples dedicated to Lord Krishna at Dwarka, etc. You can also visit the eco-zones like Gir National Park, Narayan Sarovar National Park, Thol Lake Bird Sanctuary, Kutch Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary, Purna Wildlife Sanctuary, Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, Sardar Sarovar Dam, Padamdungari camping site, Waghai botanical gardens, Gira Waterfalls, Girmal waterfalls, Dediapada Range, etc.; Beautiful beaches of Gujarat coast like Okha Madhi, Beyt Dwarka, Lighthouse, at Dwarka, Ahmedpur beach, Chorwad beach, Somnath beach, Veraval at Somnath, Bharuch along the banks of River Narmada, Nargol at Surat, Jamnagar beach, etc. Besides being blessed with this variety of holiday options, Gujarat has some of the most beautiful lakes and gardens like Hamirsar Lake at Bhuj, Kankaria Lake at Ahmedabad, Gomti Lake at Dakor, Gopi Talav at Surat, Ranjitsagar Dam at Jamnagar, etc. and some traditional shopping in the streets of Gujarat. Gujarat Tourism brings to you a variety of places to visit and sights to see while on a holiday. Never a dull moment is what Gujarat Tourism promises you of and ensures that you enjoy your trip as much as they would enjoy catering to you.

Come to land of many facets and enjoy the beauty and glory of this marvellous state along with your family and friends!

Come face to face with wildlife at Kaziranga

Situated in Golaghat and Nagaon districts of Assam, Kaziranga National Park is a World Heritage Site, as it is home to two-thirds of the world’s one-horned rhinoceroses. This expansive national park contains the highest density of tigers and is inhabited by wild water buffalo, swamp deer and elephants. It is also regarded as an important site for the conservation of birds. The park was established in 1904 when the wife of then Viceroy of India could saw that the number of single rhinoceros were reducing drastically. The park displays diverse kind of landscape including tall elephant grass, broadleaf forests, marshland as well as 4 rivers flowing in a criss-cross manner. 

 

The main attractions of this national park is undoubtedly the one-horned Rhinoceros and therefore one can opt for a jungle safari to view the exotic creatures of the wild. Besides, the famous one-horned rhinoceros, one will also come across the Royal Bengal tigers, elephants, deer, otters, Indian gaur, jackal, wild Indian boar etc. Some of the most beautiful species of birds can be spotted at this park such as grey-headed fishing eagle, Indian roller, black kite, storks, Bengal florican, palla’s fishing eagle etc. Bird watchers will definitely enjoy the experience of discovering some of the more rare and beautiful species of birds.

Sightseeing in Kaziranga is about discovering and getting to view from close quarters the magnificent creatures of the wild. One of th best ways to view the beasts of the wild is through a safari. You can choose between an elephant safari or a jeep safari. There are certain parts of the park where it will only be possible to visit on an elephant, hence it is better to enjoy a combination of both. The elephant safari is best enjoyed in the wee hours of the morning when it is easier to spot a variety of animals and if luck favors then it is possible to even spot a tiger. Elephant safari in Kaziranga passes by Mihimukh, Hole Path, Arimarah, Kohora-Central path and Baguri. 

 

Jeep safari is the other mode of transport through which you can enjoy an amazing experience through the jungles. Early in the morning or during early afternoon are the best times to go on a jeep safari. The jeep safari takes you through most parts of the jungle thereby allowing you to explore different species of animals and birds. Some of the areas that the jeep safari covers include Agarotoli Range, Burapahar Range, Kohora Range, Bagori Range and Panbari Reserved Forest. Even though Kaziranga National Park can be visited all throughout the year, the best time to visit the park is between mid-November and early April. This is the perfect time to visit the park due to the pleasant climatic conditions. 

 

Besides the national park, there are some more sights in and around Kaziranga. Some of these include Panbari Forest Reserve, Kakochang Waterfalls, Kalyani Mandir, Akadohia Pukhuri, Borchapori Tea Gardens etc. These are just some of the other attractions that one can visit as well.

A Visit To A Wildlife Sanctuary In Gujarat Is Among The Top Things to Do While On Holiday In The State

Gujarat, a state in western India is a favorite destination for those interested in art and craft and it is also well known for its unique cuisine. There is another reason why Gujarat is a popular holiday destination and that is because of its many National Parks and Wildlife sanctuaries. Wildlife enthusiasts from across the world and from all corners of India come here to experience its varied and diverse wildlife. Experts in wildlife including bird and marine life can find rare species here to study. The wildlife in Gujarat is spread across its grasslands, its deciduous forests that vary between both dry and wet ones, wetlands and even marine ecosystems. A layman interested in the wildlife that India has can also get to see a wide variety of species this way. In Gujarat these natural habitats were converted into sanctuaries in order to preserve many species that were on the verge of extinction.

Wildlife in Gujarat has gained a boost in the last couple of years with the numbers of the Asiatic Lion increasing in the Gir Forest which is a very popular sanctuary and tourist attraction. With a tour for wildlife in Gujarat one can easily view the majestic Asian Lion, leopards, wild asses, sloth bears, the four horned antelope, black bucks, the Indian Bustard and many others. The awe inspiring Rann of Kutch is also home to the world’s largest flamingo grounds. There are so many convenient package tours that one can take to view the wildlife in Gujarat. These packages can include more than one wildlife sanctuary or national park and there are options to stay within these parks as well. Wildlife in Gujarat is also thrilling when seen with the help of an experienced guide and a jungle safari. Viewing these magnificent beasts especially the endangered Asian Lion is an unforgettable experience and seeing him or a pride of lions in their own habitat is worth making the trip for.

Another mention among the options for wildlife in Gujarat is the Nal Sarovar Bird Santuary. This is very close to the capital Ahmedabad and while there are many recreational activities here what stands out is the lake that stretches to almost 100 kms and is home to an incredible number of 210 species of birds, many of them migratory. Winters are a great time to visit and one is sure to see birds like Geese, cranes, fishing eagles, osprey, the Brahmani duck, storks, herons and so many more. Choose from options like the Gir National park, the Vansda National Park, Purna Wildlife sanctuary, the Marine national park, the Essore sloth bear sanctuary etc. Viewing the wildlife in Gujarat is a good way to spend a vacation and is also a good way to help our future generations to respect and guard these species.