Vanishing stripes: Quest to save tigers a losing battle

The new census conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India is out and the results are not bright. The census says that more than half of the tigers have gone missing in Central India in the last five years.

Tiger numbers have come down by 61 per cent in Madhya Pradesh since 2002, 57 per cent in Maharashtra and 40 per cent in Rajasthan. The census puts the blame of decline in numbers squarely on urbanisation and poaching.

The study is based on a new methodology that the Wildlife Institute says is more accurate in estimating the tiger population.

The findings that cover 16 of India’s 28 tiger reserves have been released after two years of monitoring, and cover 16 of the country's 28 tiger reserves. A final census is expected by the end of the year.

The question that was being debated on Face The Show was: Has India lost the battle to save the tiger?

The panel tackling the debate comprised CSE Director, Sunita Narain; Director Wildlife Protection Society, Belinda Wright; and Director Conservation, ISLT, Raghunandan S Chundawat

Can the New Census Help?

After the last census was taken, not much was done to save the tiger, and many feel that conducting the new census is a sheer waste of time.

Raghunandan S Chundawat affirmed that counting was important for monitoring. However, he said that the knowing the numbers every year is not essential. What was important was to know where the tigers were now and whether they will be present in the future.

But the question is does counting stop the officials from taking steps to save the tiger?

“The decline in numbers is actually due to poaching. We are losing tigers very fast so the census could help check the reduction in numbers. But there could be other reasons also which we need to address,” said Chundawat.

So did Sunita Narain who headed the task of counting that was set up by the Prime Minister in May 7, 2005 and made several recommendations as well, think that counting was essential to save the tiger?

“I think that a lot more needs to be done but counting is important because unless we know how deep the crisis is it is really difficult for us to act. We also need to know where the tigers really are. We have been protecting areas without clarity, without even knowing where the tigers are, what is the state of their habitat and what is the state of their prey. To conduct any strategy it is essential for us to know the numbers. And the task once taken up should be done with rigour and commitment. We have set out in our task force a set of recommendations which includes the use of this methodology for counting and it also includes setting up a crime bureau,” said Sunita Narian.

Fighting a Losing Battle

Narain said the though the Government was addressing the issue of the decline in the number of tigers, a lot more still needed to be done.

Belinda Wright was of the opinion that the census is important but along with that the Government has to ensure that the tigers that come under the count have to be protected. The Government has yet to recognise the real problem.

“The average age of a forest guard is 50 years. There has been no recruitment in the forest department in the last 10 years. The frontline staff is only middle school pass and 50 per cent of the staff is untrained in criminal investigative matters that relates to poaching. Apart from that, 500 national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in India exist only on paper. So the figures only go on to say that it is a losing battle to save tigers,” said Wright.

Improve Your Self Confidence in 15 Minutes

Some people have naturally high levels of confidence
but everybody canlearn to be more confident. Firstly,
it's important to get a clear idea
of what self confidence really means, otherwise you
won't know when you've got it!
So, self confidence means:

1. Being calm. For every situation in life you need to
run on the appropriate level of emotion. Too much emotional
'leakage' into aexperience can spoil the experience.
You make great strides towards confidence when you begin
to relax in a greater range of situations.

2. Being cool. The second part of self confidence is
about being able torelax with uncertainty. To be 'cool'
in a situation really means relaxing with not knowing
how things will pan out. If you truly tolerateuncertainty,
you can do pretty much anything.

3. Not being too concerned with what others think of
you. You know when you imagine what some place is
going to be like before you go there but when you get
there it is totally different to your imagination? That's
how reliable your imagination is! Stop trusting your
imagination so much. I've long since stopped bothering
to imagine what others think of me because so often
I've turned out to be wrong.

4. Being specific - where do you want confidence?
'Confidence' is meaningless until you tie it
to something specific.You are already
confident that you can read these words or can switch
a light on and off. So you don't need more
confidence everywhere. To get what you want
in life you have to establish exactly what you do
want. Where do you want confidence in your life?
 Think about the specific situations now
and write them down. You beginning to steer your brain
towards confidence.

5. Understanding that what you expect is what you get.
Your brain is an organ that needs clear goals to work towards.
When a task has been set in your brain it will do everything
 it can do to bring about the completion of that task.
If you've tried to recall someone's name but
can't, hours later you'll often find their name pops
into your head.

The 'trying to recall' experience set the task or
blueprint for your brain's future subconscious behaviour which
eventually produced the name for you - when you weren't
 thinking about it consciously. You can use this natural
 mechanism to start feeling more confident. But, to ensure you
 set the right task for your subconscious mind, the
next point is vital.

6. Don't task your mind with negatives. Instead of: 'I
don't want to screw up' (which sets the task of
'screwing up' for your brain), set the blueprint for what
 you do want! Your brain doesn't work towards what to do by
being told what not to do. And nature has given
you a wonderful natural tool to set the right task blueprints with.

7. Use nature's goal-setter: Now you understand how
vital it is to set the right task for you brain, you
need to know how to do this reliably.Good hypnosis will
 strongly 'program' the right blueprint in your mind
through the use of your imagination. If you powerfully
imagine feeling confident and relaxed while in a relaxed hypnotic
state it will be hard for your unconscious mind to do anything
else. The blueprint for relaxation has been set firmly into your
subconscious mind.

3 simple strategies to get you feeling confident
quickly:

1. Think specifically of the time/place/situation you
want to feelconfident in. Remember 'confidence' doesn't mean
anything until you attach it to something specific.

2. Focus on words in your mind right now that describe
how you do want to be in that time and place. Maybe words
 such as 'calm', 'relaxed' or 'focused'. Remember your brain
works on clear positive instructions.

3. Close your eyes for as long as you like and think
about how those words feel. Then, imagine the situation
itself and rehearse it in your
mind feeling confident and relaxed. This way you set
the right blueprint or 'task' for your unconscious mind.

You can repeat this often to make it more effective
and use it with asmany areas of your life as you need to.
If you listen to a hypnotic cd or download that can make
the benefits even more powerful. So if you
feel like you'd be blessed with less confidence than
some other people you can start redressing the balance by using your
mind in the right way right now.

It took me years to learn how to be more confident -
now you can do it in a fraction of the time. Good luck!

Taj Mahal

¤ Taj Mahal -A Marvel of Love


Take a constitutional down Shahjahan Park in the chilly mauve light of dawn, and the pale white dome of the Taj Mahal, India looms in the distance. Set against the azure skyline, it looks like a mirage in a desert. Inch closer and the supreme majesty of the greatest monument to love comes into focus – with its dew-coated lawns and its pearl-white mausoleum.

Travel to Taj Mahal Agra to baptize into the true glory of this passion of love. As the sun rises to cast a reverential beam on the sepulchre, the ‘dream in marble’ turns from lavender to yellow, while nightfall sees the monument bathed in moonlight – looking like a woman wreathed in smiles while waiting for her lover.

There are many theories as at which time the Taj Mahal, India looks the best, but there is no substitute to viewing it at all hours of the day and the night if you want to understand its myriad facets. Taj Mahal, India is a microcosm of the universe – it contains within it both the yin and the yang, taking on a new personality to suit the occasion. It can be harsh, dry and strong like alabaster, delicately chaste and fragile like porcelain, noisily populous or quiet and secretive.


¤ The Monumental Heritage

A copious amount has been written about the Taj – Agra’s window to the world. Nobel laureate Tagore called it ‘a tear on the face of eternity’, while the painter William Hodges wrote in 1876 that ‘it was like a most perfect pearl on an azure ground’. From Princess Diana to President Clinton to Yanni – the Taj draws every éminence grise from across the ‘seven seas’ to it like a magnet.

As Clinton said during his presidential visit to India, “the world is divided into those who have seen the Taj and those who have not.” The American President joined the list of ‘haves’ this year, but for anyone bitten by the travel bug, a visit to the luminescent monument is an essential part of their resume. To say the ‘miracle in human design’ is the Mughal Empire’s magnum opus is to state the obvious.

Like Picasso’s ‘Guernica’, Omar Khayyam’s ‘Rubaiyat’ or Beethoven’s ‘Eroica’, the Taj instills in you a sublime passion. It uplifts you – one feels more significant as a human being within its confines than outside it.

Quick bytes

State :	Uttar Pradesh
Location :	Taj Mahal stands majestically in Agra city on the banks of river Yamuna.
Watch Out :	Taj Museum; Closed on Mondays and Fridays
Look Out :	Taj Mahotsav, February, Held for 10 days.

¤ The History Manifest

Taj Mahal India was made in commemoration of Arjumand Bano Begum. The queen was married at the age of 21 to emperor Jahangir's son Khurram. During all the phases of Khurram life, Arjumand Bano Begum supported him through out. She was like a supporting pillar in his life. In AD 1628, Khurram became king after a bloody battle of succession. He changed his name from Khurram to Shahjahan or the King of the World. Arjumand Bano also changed her name from Mumtaz Mahal.

Mumtaz Mahal was not destined to be a queen for a long period of time. She died at the age of 39 while delivering a child at Burhanpur. That auspicious day turned into a mournful event. When Arjumand Banu Begum (better known as Mumtaz Mahal) died in childbirth in 1629, her husband, Emperor Shah Jahan immortalised their love by building the ‘dream in marble’ – the finest illustration of Mughal architecture. The dream took over 22 years to fructify and over 20,000 craftsmen were employed to build it.

¤ Designing of Taj

Who designed the Taj Mahal India is shrouded in mystery – some historians credit the Venetian architect Veroneo with its construction, while others believe it was the work of a Persian called Ustad Isa.

But we do know of the lesser luminaries connected to it with certainty – the central dome was built by Ismail Effendi from Turkey, the calligrapher was Amanat Khan from Shiraz, the mosaicist, Chiranji Lal hailed from Delhi while the goldsmith, Qazim Khan was summoned from Lahore.

A story which is probably apocryphal but has been doing the rounds for generations, says that Shah Jahan had the chief mason’s right hand amputated to preclude him from replicating the ‘marvel in marble’ anywhere else in the world.

¤ Taj Nestles On The Banks of Yamuna River

Located at the southern end of the city on the banks of the Yamuna River, the site where the Taj stands belonged to a Hindu nobleman, Raja Man Singh. Abdul Rehman Lahori, the court historian recorded that five million rupees were spent on the building – a king’s ransom in those days.

Once complete, the upkeep of the mausoleum and its 42-acre garden was funded with the revenue obtained from 30 neighbouring villages. There are three lofty gateways to the Tajmahel complex. The central portal is richly decorated with floral arabesques and is inscribed with passages from the Koran. A huge forecourt leads onto a lush garden, which is divided by an aqueduct.

The main monument is a two-storeyed octagonal building with a huge rotunda as its crowning glory. Four sky-scraper tall minarets position themselves as sentries on each side of the monument – all built out of brick and encased in marble. The graves of the celebrated duo, Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal are housed in the catacomb below. The Taj is remarkable for its perfect proportions and rich pietra dura, and every minutiae in the monument has been etched with consummate skill. In a nutshell, the Taj is the ‘Embodiment of the Islamic Concept of Paradise’



¤ The Architectural Marvel - Paradise on Earth

In the Koran, the garden symbolises paradise. Islam originated in the deserts of Arabia where greenery and water was very much coveted. “Gardens underneath which rivers flow” is a phrase, that appears no less than 30 times in the Koran. The four main rivers of paradise are also mentioned: water, milk, wine and purified honey.

It is unmistakable that Shah Jahan conceptualised the Taj Mahal as ‘heaven on earth’. As you enter the gates of the Taj, it is like an ingression into heaven. The watercourses divide the garden into quadrants. It was Babur who had introduced the char-bagh (four-garden) concept into India. The imagery is threefold: it is a symbol of paradise to reward the faithful; an oasis from the dry desert heat; and a summation of the secular tradition of the royal pleasure garden. and the watercourse, which divides the garden into four, epitomises both, the life source and the meeting of man and God.

In this context, the spacious lawns surrounding the Taj Mahal become as important as the mausoleum itself.Your travel trip to Taj definitely leaves you mesmerize, a ‘Paradise on Earth’ really summarises its ethereal appeal – the monument rivals any of the other wonders of the world.

¤ Taj Mahotsav

The best time to visit this 17 th century monument is during Taj Mahotsav. Taj Mahotsav is 10 day saga held annually at Shilpgram, near Taj Mahal. Bedecked elephants and camels, drum beaters, folk artists and master craftsmen together recreate the glorious past of the Mughals.

During this fest, Taj Mahal comes alive with culture and traditions. Taj Mahostav provides an opportunity to its artisans to perform their art and craft. You can actually purchase crafts which includes wood carvings from Saharanpur, handmade carpets of Badohi, the pottery of Khurja, chickan-work of Lucknow, the silk of Banares and much more.

Through Taj Mahotsav, performers get a platform to showcase profusion of folk music and dances of Dundelkhand, 'Nautanki' (Drama), 'Sapera' dance of Rajasthan, Lavani of Maharashtra.


¤ Shopping At Taj Mahal

Just at the entrance, there are number of shops. These shops sells exquisite crafts and arts at affordable price. You can purchase leather work, footwear and embroidery. Infact, you small Taj Mahal miniature made of white marble are quite popular amongst the tourists.

¤ Getting to Taj Mahal

Air : Just 7 kms from Agra city lies Kheria airport. From Delhi, Indira Gandhi Airport, Taj Mahal is just 204 kms away.
Rail : The nearest rail head for the Taj Mahal is Agra Cantonement railway station. The city is connected with Palace on Wheels, Shatabdi and Taj Express.
Road : Express bus service are available from Delhi, Jaipur, Lucknow, Gwalior, and Jhansi.

¤ Accommodation at Taj Mahal
Taj Mahal is one of the major attractions of Agra India. Due to its locale, Taj Mahal offers best of accommodation facilities.

Cyber cop helps you fight those viruses

Pop-ups, viruses and files that make your system crash. Sounds familiar? Well, there's help at hand.

Never fear as cyber cop is here. Here’s how to clean up your system with the best free downloads.

Has your computer been running slow? Surfing the web has probably crammed your computer with unwanted files.

You can easily blow them away with the Toni Helenius easy cleaner. It sweeps away the clutter but saves the files you really want.

It identifies and destroys the files before any noticeable change in performers. But once it is done cleaning, you will notice the change in speed.

Now if viruses have got your hard disk down, get smart. Download the AVG anti-virus 7.

Certified the top free anti-virus by CNET's editor and given 4.5 stars out of 5 by the users, this will give even jumbos like Norton a run for its money.

On the downside, it doesn’t come with a manual and the live phone support is expensive. But it’s small, regularly updated and free. So what more do you want?

Now the big daddy of them all is the Zone Alarm Internet Security Suite.

It blocks spam mail, pop-ups, viruses and cleans out useless files. Plus, it's easy to set up, just what the doctor ordered.

Now remember, free software are great only for use at home. If you have got some very important files to guard, like precious office projects, switch to paid software.

Lakshadweep Islands

¤ Lakshadweep At A Glance

Lakshadweep is not as renowned a destination as Goa or Kerala, but its lagoons and beaches are just as beautiful. The wealth of coral formations attracts a variety of tropical fish – angel, clown, butterfly, sturgeon, sweetlip, snappers and groupers. Kavaratti, which is the administrative capital of Lakshadweep, is located in the centre of the archipelago.

Its two most significant mosques are the Ajjara and Jamath Mosques, which are characterised by exquisite woodcarvings. The former in particular has a beautiful ceiling carved out of driftwood, which is the handiwork of local craftsmen.

The Aquarium at Kavaratti with tropical fish and corals, the Kavaratti Lake, and the splendid tombs it houses, are the other attractions of the place.


¤ Island Attractions

Kalpeni -- Famous For Its Water Sports
Those keen on water sports will enjoy visiting Kalpeni along with its three uninhabited satellite islands.
Surrounded by a lagoon rich in corals, Kalpeni offers excellent facilities for water sports such as snorkelling and diving. The coral remains on the eastern shores of the island are the remnants of a violent storm that took place in 1847. The main monument at Kalpeni is the Moidin Mosque that has walls made of coral.

The best part of the Kalpeni Islands is that it is crime-free – women dress in wrap-around lungis (sarongs) and wear heavy gold jewellery without fear of being assaulted.
While in the area, do not miss the two traditional dances of Kalpeni – Kolkali and Parichakkali – which illustrate themes drawn from folklore and religious legends to the accompaniment of music and song.

Minicoy Island
One of the most interesting islands in Lakshadweep is the Minicoy Island – not only, because it is the largest, but also because it is closer in language and culture to the Maldives.
While the rest of the archipelago speaks Malayalam, the lingua franca in Minicoy is Mahl. Mahl is written from right to left and is very similar to Dhivehi – the language of the Maldivians. Many of their customs are similar to those of the Maldives.
The people of Minicoy are a sea-faring community and have a closely-knit matrilineal society. In fact, the dominance of women led the famous explorer Marco Polo to dub Minicoy as a ‘female island.’ Minicoy is a picturesque island dotted with palm trees and enclosed with coral reefs. One of the most spectacular sights of Minicoy is a 50 metre tall Lighthouse, built by the British.

Amindivi Group of Island
The Amindivi group consists of the Islands of Chetlat, Bitra, Kiltan, Kadmat and Amini.
Bitra, the smallest of the group is an ornithologist’s delight – it is heavily populated with birds and is a rich source of birds’ eggs. Kiltan is located on an ancient trade route – ships travelling from Aden often made a stopover at the Island en route to Colombo.
The densely populated Amini and Kadmat are rich in coconut palms and were occupied by the Portugese for a short while.
Kadmat is an island, nine kilometres long and only 200 metres in width. However it has a fine beach and a beautiful bay and is ideal for swimming and diving.

Pitti Island
Finally, Lakshadweep boasts of the barren and desolate Pitti Island, comprising of a square-shaped reef with a sand bank at its southern end.

Pitti Island is a vitally important nesting place for terns (a kind of sea swallow), and has been listed as a Wildlife Sanctuary. Terns are an endangered species and conservation groups are pressing for a ban on the planting of trees and the mining of coral – which they believe, threaten its habitat. However, the main threat to terns comes from anglers who collect terns’ eggs for food and disturb the birds’ natural habitat.

¤ A Tourist Destinatioin

However, tourism is still in its infancy because of infrastructural bottlenecks. Foreigners are only allowed into Bangaram and Kadmat, while Indian nationals are granted access to Minicoy, Kavaratti and Kalpeni as well.

Beaches in Karnataka

Karnataka has a 320-km long coastline, arrayed with famous beaches, that invites those wants a break from the chafing grind of urban life. The tranquility and the charm of the region coupled with the impetuousness of the coastal folk, and their delightful cuisine is just awesome.


¤ Bhatkal Beach

Famous Bhatkal Beach is located at a distance of 16-km from Bhatkal and 126 km from Karwar. Dotted by the calm blue seas and majestic hills, this beach is a popular tourist spot and known for the exquisite temples. Best season to visit Bhatkal beach is from August to March.


¤ Karwar

Karwar is situated just 100 km from Goa is a perfect holiday with gentle waves, palm-laced beaches, silver sand, and calm, peaceful alleys. A voyage through Goa makes a good starting point of discovering the thrills of the sea, sand and sun. Major attractions of this place include the Sadashivgad Hill fort with a Durga temple, the unique Octagonal Church, and the 300 year old Venkataramana Temple.


¤ Murudeshwar Beach

Located 16 km from Bhatkal, Murudeshwar beach another famous beach of Karnataka is believed to have been sanctified by Pranalinga of Mahabaleshwara thrown by Ravana. It is a popular picnic spot, having beautiful blue waters of the sea and the majestic mountains. Other attractions around this beach are the Murdeshwar temple, the Kanduka Giri and the fort of Tipu Sultan. This lovely destination can be visited throughout the year.


¤ Kurumgad

Kurumgad -a tortoise-shaped island is situated at a distance of 4 km from the mainland. The beach is famous for the hilltop Narasimha Temple where thousands of devotees throng the temple during the annual jatra held on Pushya Purnima every year in early January. One can enjoy viewing the sea and the sand.

The beach also facilitates number of beach activities, one can indulge in water sports such as trekking, fishing, dolphin and seal-spotting, a boat cruise to other nearby islands, diving, snorkeling, treasure hunts, guided tours, or star-gazing.


¤ Malpe

About 6 km from Udupi is Malpe, Malpe is a perfect hangout zone with its virgin beach. The infinite tract of golden sand, pleasantly swaying palm trees, the clear blue sky and the ripple of the sea all set an ideal disposition for an unforgettable holiday here. An idyllic resort for boating, fishing and bathing the town lies around 386 km from Bangalore. Between October - January is the best time to visit this place.
The St Mary's Island is another enchanting holiday destination. A boat cruise can be taken from Malpe to reach the beach resort, it is yet another beach destination that holds the charm of awe-inspiring views of the sunset.


¤ Gokarna

Gokarna, a beach town has some most splendid beaches of the region. Om beach, one of Gokarna's five famed beaches, is in the shape of a 'Om,'- most spiritual symbol of Hindus. The other famous beaches, compressed between massive steep rock that project like delicate fingers into the sea, are Gokarna, Kudle, Half Moon and Paradise. One can visit Gokarna any time round the year.


¤ Kaup

Kaup is situated at a distance of 12 km from Udupi, on the coastal belt. Kaup has a lovely beach that offers a perfect holiday destination with calm sea and beautiful location. Beside it beach, Kaup has attractions of a ruined fort and an old 100ft high lighthouse.


¤ Maravanthe

Maravanthe beach is 50 km from Udupi. The endless stretch of golden sand, swaying palm trees, clear blue sky and the flow of the sea attracts a large number of tourists to this spot. At sunset, the red sky and golden rays convert the entire environs into a fairyland of scenic beauty. A drive further up are the Belekal Theertha falls, near Baindur.

The Maravanthe Beach has an ideal location for taking up water sports activities. Seawater is safe for swimming with gentle tides beckoning. The pristine splendor and serene enfolding of its virgin beach make it a most desired hang out spot.

Beaches in Andhra Pradesh

The beautiful state of Andhra Pradesh has a 1000 kms long coastline with some of the most exotic beaches in India. Eight out of twenty three districts of Andhra Pradesh have beaches nearby.

The beaches of Andhra Pradesh are mesmerizing, with sliver sand and golden sunshine. They are an ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle of the cities. Here, tourists can spend some calm and serene holidays.


¤ Bheemunipatnam Beach

The famous Bheemunipatnam Beach is also known as Bhimli. It is situated in Bheemunipatnam, just 25 km north of Visakhapatnam. This beautiful beach offers some outstanding views. The water at Bhimli beach is shallow, therefore it is considered one of the safest beach for swimmers and surfers.


¤ Ramakrishna Beach

The imporatant Ramakrishna beach is located in Vishakhaptnam. This lovely beach provides some scenic sites, with long and calm water stretches. It offers a respite from the the busy life of the city. Apart form this, there is another beach here, called the Lawson's Bay.


¤ Manginapudi (Machilipatnam) Beach

The Manginapudi beach is located at Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh. This beach is bestowed with exotic sites and a historic port city. It is famous as a health resort as well as a perfect picnic spot. A must visit beach.


¤ Mypad Beach

The Mypad beach is located in the Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh. This beach is an exquisite beach with lush greenery and long stretches of silver sand. An enchanting beach that lures innumerable tourists.


¤ Rishikonda Beach

The Rishikonda beach is located 8 km from Vizag or Vishakhapatnam. This virgin beach along with sun kissed sand and clear blue water of sea, attracts tourists from all over the world. An ideal for water sports lovers, especially swimmers, water skiers, and wind surfers.


¤ Kakinada-Uppada Road Beach

This beach is located on the Uppada Road which is about 5 km away from Kakinada town. The famous Kakinada beach is an enthralling beach with clean waters and wide shore. The slope at the beach is quite gradual. The beach also owns a beautiful park that adds to its beauty.


¤ Kalingapatnam Beach

The Kalingapatnam beach is located in Srikakulam district of andhra Pradesh. This beach has now been developed into a beach resort by andhra Pradesh Tourism.


¤ Kottapatnam Beach

The Kottapatnam beach is located about 18 km from Ongole town in andhra Pradesh. offering a clean environment with exciting recreational activities, this beach is a must visit.


¤ Motupalle Beach

The Motapalle beach is situated in the Motupalle village which is about 12 km away from Chinaganjam and 45 km from Ongole. The beach area looks extremely eye pleasing with rows of Casuarina plantations offering scenic beauty to the beach.


¤ Perupalem Beach

The Perupalem is located quite close to Narsapur town in West Godavari district. As you drive to the Perupalem on the State highway, you can view vast, green paddy fields and lines of coconut trees.


¤ Suryalanka Beach

The Suryalanka Beach is located 9 km from Bapatla. This flat beach has a gradual slope with a wide shore. It is an ideal beach for spending weekends and holidays. So, do not miss visiting it.

Famous Kerala Beaches

he state of Kerala has so much to offer to its tourists, that the synonym 'God's Own Country' sounds very true. The lush greenery, scenic hill stations, serene blue backwaters, amazing wildlife, pristine beaches and delicious cuisine attracts thousands of tourists on their Kerala Beach Travel. Though the backwaters of Kerala are a prime tourist destination, the beaches are not far behind. Kerala beaches are among the finest beaches of India.


¤ Kerala Coastal Attractions

The 600 km length of the Kerala coast is lined with sandy beaches, rocky promontories and coconut palms that definitely merit a visit in every tourist itinerary. On your Kerala beach Travel relax on the golden beaches, indulge in beach activities, sip refreshing and fresh coconut water and try the ayurvedic massages by the professional masseurs. Unlike beaches of Goa, which are flooded with tourist rush, the beaches of Kerala are more serene, and yet undiscovered by most of the people.


¤ Some of the famous beaches of Kerala -

Kovalam Beach, Marari Beach, Kumarakom Beach, Alappuzha Beach, Beypore Beach, Varkala Beach, Muzhappilangad Beach, Payyambalam Beach, Shankhumugham Beach and Thangassery Beach.

These beaches are mostly un-spoilt. There beauty lies in the untouched natural aura. The beaches offers a complete relax to the body and mind. The delicious seafood of Kerala is generally available outside the beaches.

Beaches in Maharashtra

Maharashtra has a 720 km long stretch of coastline. The beautiful Arabian Sea washes the land of Maharashtra. It is a perfect amalgamation of sun, sand and surf. The state has many lovely beaches along with a good number of seaside and beach resorts. One of the major features of the beaches of Maharashtra is that they are quite safe, ideal family beach sites. There are many historical forts near these beaches that mark the history of Maharashtra. Thus, the beaches of Maharashtra are a must visit.


¤ Juhu Beach

The famous Juhu beach is situated in Mumbai. It is one of the largest and most visited tourist beaches of India on the shores of Arabian Sea. Juhu beach is famous as the best hangout place of Mumbai city. The famous Bhelpuri and Kulfi sold on the beach lures innumerable tourists.


¤ Marine Drive - Chowpatty Beach

The Marine Drive beach is also an important beach known as the Chopwpatty beach. It is situated in the center of Mumbai and is related to the historical freedom movement. This beach is also a popular picnic spot for tourists as well as for locals residents. The idols of Lord Ganesha are immersed at this beach, on the last day of famous Ganesha Chaturthi festival.


¤ Madh Island Beach

Madh Island is another popular picnic spot, marked with lavish bungalows and an urban aura. At this beach some of the most lavish beach parties are held.


¤ Marve-Manori-Gorai

This beach is located at the north of Mumbai. Here, there are three beautiful and serene getaways. These places offer ideal breaks for those looking for a much needed break. Marve is a little fishing village, the nearest and the quietest of the three. Gorai and Manori, a little far away. These two are popular for their exciting all night beach parties.


¤ Ganapatipule Beach

Ganapatipule is a religious beach, with a very good resort. It is situated along the western cost of Maharashtra and is famous as one of the 'Ashta Ganapati' pilgrimage sites of India.


¤ Murud - Janjira

Alibaug is the main town of the Raigad district, from where the beaches are nearby. Janjira and Murud are one of the most popular and important beaches fringed with palm trees. A few kilometers away from here are two undiscovered beach sites of Kashid and Nandgaon.


¤ Baseein

Baseen is located 77-km away from Mumbai. This beach served as an important shipbuilding center during 17th century. In 1739, Portuguese were defeated by the Marathas. It is a beautiful beach similar to that of Goa beaches.

Beaches of Tamil Nadu

The south Indian state of Tamil Nadu is situated by the Bay of Bengal and is famous for its natural beauty especially for its chromatic beaches and clear skies. Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu has some of the loveliest beaches,ideal for a beach holiday on the coastal line of southern India. The Marina beach in Chennai is the second longest beach in the world. It has a wonderful golden foreshore and is known as the 'Pride of Chennai'. The Covelong beach is quiet far away from the distractions of the city and the Elliot's beach is the favorite destination for those looking for a clean and peaceful atmosphere. After a short 20-minute drive from Chennai City, one reaches the VGP Golden Beach Resort that offers a tranquil and comfortable atmosphere, a respite from the hustle and bustle of the cities. The Mahabalipuram beach is situated around 60-km south of Chennai, famous for its unique 7th century shore temple and stone sculptures. All in all, the exotic beaches of Tamil Nadu are definitely a must visit.


¤ 'The Pride of Chennai' - Marina Beach

The Marina beach one of the most loveliest beaches in India, is located on the eastern side of Chennai nearby the Bay of Bengal. The sunsets and the sunrises at this mesmerizing beach are absolutely awesome. Though bathing and swimming can be dangerous, as the undercurrent is very strong, the beach attracts several visitors, who come to spend their holiday in the laps of natural beauty of coastal region. In the evenings, virtually, the beach becomes a fair ground with various kinds of entertainment and food stalls lining the beach.


¤ The Potpourri of Hues - Kaniyakumari Beach

The KaniyaKumari or Cape Comorin, is the end of the tip of India's land. This famous beach is an marvelous assortment of multi- hued sand. It is surrounded by Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea. It is also called 'Thriveni Sangamam', where you can enjoy the breath-taking views of the Sun Shine and the Sun Set on your travel holiday in the region. It is also famous for Gandhi Mandapam and Kanyakumari Amman temple. Amidst the sea of Kanyakumari, a small hillock houses the memorial of Swami Vivekananda.


¤ The Port of Pallavas - Mahabalipuram Beach

Mahabalipuram, also known, as "Mamallapuram" is situated 60-kms, south of Chennai, nestled on the shores of the Bay of Bengal. It was once a port of the Pallavas, who have created many marvelous monuments with Sculptural Panels, Caves, Monolithic Rathas (chariots) and Temples.


¤ Rameswaram Beach

Rameshwaram is an island situated off the mainland surrounded by Palk Strait and the Gulf of Mannar. It is also a famous pilgrim center, where according to the epic Ramayana, Lord Sri Rama worshiped Lord Siva, before invading Lanka to save his wife Sita from the clutches of Ravana. It is believed that Lord Sri Rama constructed the mythological bridge to Sri Lanka.


¤ Covelong Beach

The magical Covelong beach is located at a distance of 40 km from Chennai. It is a calm beach, far from the distractions of the cities, offering a perfect holiday beach destiantion in the scenic environment. One of the best weekend getaway, the salubrious Covelong beach is also famous for its fishing activities.

¤ Muttukkadu

Muttukkadu is known for its backwater and estuary. It is ideal for rides on motorized boats or for wind surfing. One can hire a pedal boat or a row boat for cruising leisurely. Other activities one can indulge at Muttukkadu are angling and fishing.


¤ Mandapam

Mandapam is the mainland linking the island of Rameswaram. It is the Gateway to many small islands and is bestowed with a quite beach dominated by sun and surf.

¤ Kurusadai Islands

The Kurusadai islands are wee-known for their natural beauty and is situated off Mandapam. It is famous for coral reefs and rare species of marine life such as Dolphins. Permission from the Fisheries Department in Chennai is necessary to visit the Islands and make it your holiday destinatiion.

Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Distance : 1,190km from Madras, 1,220km from Calcutta
Area : 8,249 sq km
Population : 450,000
Capital : Port Blair
Temperature : 23^oC to 31^oC, Humidity 80%
Best time to visit : Mid-November to April

¤ The Pristine Beauty of Andaman Islands

Travel to India to feel the cool, blue waters of the Bay of Bengal stretch for miles along the East Coast of India – unbroken except by the sound of waves nudging each other. The waters of the Bay of Bengal silently meet the Indian Ocean somewhere between Ceylon and Myanmar (formerly Burma). Out of the sapphire expanse rise islands with sands the colour of the purest gold. Seemingly virgin country, swaying palm trees and forests dot these golden beaches. Where the sands are not forged of gold, the beaches are stretches of pure white, with sky-blue waters lapping their shores. This is Andaman and Nicobar, a group of 300 islands, of which only 50 are inhabited. Paradise, some might say, but not so about a century ago. For Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman s, is where the British built one of the most dreaded penitentiaries in all of India.


¤ The Island Habitats

The Andaman and Nicobar islands are inhabited by native aboriginals like the Onges, the Shompens, the Sentinelese, the Andaman ese, the Jarawas and the Nicobarese.
Their numbers are fast dwindling, with the Sentinelese in particular numbering a little over a hundred. However, they are still fighting shy of the outside world and every effort by ‘outsiders’ to colonise them is met with fierce resistance. Similarly, the Jarawas have constantly resisted all contact with the modern world – happy with their ‘sequestered existence’.


¤ The Dwelling of The Tribes

The Sentinelese and the Onges tribes paint their naked bodies. Some of them hunt pigs, fish and turtles with harpoons made of metal. Most of the tribes are agriculturists with only a few thousand of them surviving today. Tourists are discouraged to interact with these tribals and the areas in which they live are cordoned off, to ensure nothing untoward occurs.


¤ The Vegetation

Tropical rain forests cover the Andaman and Nicobar islands in a dense, green shroud. The archipelago houses more than 3,000 species of plants and fruit. The region is susceptible to flash storms, which makes fishing difficult during the monsoons when high velocity winds sweep the islands. The temperature does not fluctuate too much – it hovers between 20^oC-32^oC round the year.


¤ Perquisite of Permit

To travel these magnificent Andaman Islands some formalities are required as these islands are not very easily accessible. For instance, foreign svisitors require a ‘Restricted Area Permit’ that is valid for 30 days. Permits can be obtained from Indian embassies abroad or from Calcutta, Chennai and Port Blair. Initially, a 15-day permit is issued, which can be extended for another 15 days.

The permit allows foreigners to stay in South Andaman , Little Andaman , Bharatnag,, North Passage, Neil, Havelock and Long Islands. Foreign tourists are barred from visiting the Nicobar islands. On arrival, they need to report their presence to the Deputy Commissioner of Police, and while departing, their permits are stamped.

North Goa Beaches

¤ Miramar

Miramar is at a distance of 3km from Panaji. Although it is the beach that is closest to the capital, it is not the most spectacular. But if you feel that a beach with a name straight out of Top Gun is worth trying out, then accommodation should not be a problem. A range of budget hotels and a youth hostel are available here.


¤ Dona Paula

Sprinkled with palm trees and casuarina plantations, the beach of Dona Paula in North Goa is a peaceful stretch next to the little town and fishing village of Dona Paula. It is also a popular picnic spot. You can take a ferry from here to Vasco da Gama. Resorts with swimming pools and beach cottages are available in Dona Paula.


¤ Vainguinim

The five-star deluxe hotel – Cidade de Goa, stands on the lovely Vainguinim Beach. Their USP is that their hotel is run by Goans, so they give you the complete Goan experience, coupled with all the five star frills.


¤ Sinquerim and Candolim

The Sinquerim Beach in North Goa has a dramatic backdrop in the form of the 16th century Fort Aguada. Sinquerim and Candolim beaches in North Goa are both popular with backpackers, and tend to be a little more sober compared to the Calangute Beach. Built in 1612 by the Portuguese, the Fort Aguada is pretty much in ruins, but the view from the top of the fort as you look down to the mouth of the Mandovi River, is simply breathtaking.


¤ Calangute and Baga

Ever since the 60’s, the flower children have not looked at another beach. They’ve headed straight for Calangute; their abode, their psychedelia, and their Mecca. God knows if they ever found their existential-or-otherwise, ‘meaning in life’ but in their quest to do so, some of them went too far for the local sensibilities. The result was police clampdowns, and other drastic measures taken to control the ‘bunch of hippies’ of the lost generation.

Though the beach is still pretty ‘active’ and the ‘Om Namah Shivai trance’ continues to linger; today, Calangute is a far cry from what it used to be. The shacks and palms have given way to a rapidly-growing, package-tourist market, rows of shops, guesthouses and other budget hotels. The tidy little fish market in town is worth a visit.

Baga formed a twin beach with Calangute, and therefore shares Calangute’s colourful past. Nestling close to the estuary, this beach has more character.


¤ Anjuna Beach in North Goa

Anjuna Beach in North Goa is a stretch of straight sand, with a backdrop of feathery coconut groves. It’s a big favourite with backpackers and travellers staying on for a long time. Anjuna beach took the relay from Calangute, and became the next haven of the flower children. The beach still has an intoxicating atmosphere and draws a motley crowd of passover hippies, travellers, philosophers, thinkers, babacools, rastamen and musicians. It’s a great place to meet people and generally collect material for a thesis on human psychology. Anjuna is known for its flea market, held under the shady coconut groves, every Wednesday. You can pick up trinkets, get a tattoo, or just hang around to enjoy the crazy colourful atmosphere.



¤ Chapora & Vagator North Goa Beach

The old Portuguese Chapora Fort stands on a hill which looks down on the tiny Chapora village, the estuary, the coconut groves and the beach. With their hidden sandy coves and creeks, Chapora and Vagator North Goa beach are easily amongst the most beautiful beaches in Goa. Besides the strip of the Little Vagator Beach , the North Goa beaches are quite peaceful, as they are not yet a major hub for travellers.


¤ Arambol North Goa Beach

Arambol served as the rudimentary getaway for travellers from Anjuna Beach when Anjuna came under scrutiny of the police and the locals. Arambol North Goa Beach is a beautiful stretch of silky sand dotted with basalt rocks, and is still comparatively uncluttered. There is a freshwater lake and some sulphur springs, close by.

Kanyakumari Temple

¤ The Temple of Virgin Goddess

Kanyakumari is the southernmost tip of India and the merging point of three seas; the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal. It is named after the virgin Goddess Kanyakumari whose temple is situated here on its shore.

This temple is devoted to a manifestation of Parvati, the virgin goddess who performed penance to acquire Lord Shiva's hand in marriage. The temple is a major tourist attraction with neighboring ghat, beautifully placed overlooking the shore. It is an eminent belief that the diamond nose-ring of the deity is so shiny that it is visible even from the sea.

There are two rocks emerging out of the ocean, located southeast of the Kumari Amman temple. One among these is Sri Padaparai, where the footprints of the virgin goddess are believed to be imprinted on this rock. It is said that Swami Vivekananda sat in deep meditation here and therefore the Vivekananda Rock Memorial was built in 1970. Along with this there also a dhyana mandapam, which provides a tranquil atmosphere to meditate.


¤ Legend Related To The Temple

Legends say that the wedding of Kanya Devi, an avatar of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva was to be held here. But he did not arrived at the auspicious time and the wedding never took place. The food that was to be cooked was left uncooked. Here the stones resemble rice and cereals which can also be bought. According to the people residing here these stones are the leftovers of the legendary marriage that could not be solemnized. As for the princess Kanya Devi, she became a virgin goddess, blessing everyone who visits this temple.


¤ The Features of The Temple

The temple is entered mainly through the northern gate, inspite of the fact that the deity is facing east. The eastern entrance remains closed except for special occasions when the deity is taken out for ceremonial bath.

There are all together three corridors that skirt the sanctum. The outer corridor is deprived of special shrines, but after a walk round it the devotees cross the 'Navarathiri mandapam'. A pathway leads to the second corridor surrounding the shrine. There stands the flag mast or 'Kodisthambam'. The Goddess can be clearly viewed from here. Moving further you will reach the front of the sanctum.

The Idol of the Goddess stands with rosary in one hand as if in prayer. It is said to be installed by Parasurama and is made of blue stone. In the inner corridor, the shrines of Vinayagar and Thiagasundary are present, which is visited by devotees after worshiping the Goddess.


¤ Festivals

The temple festivals celebrated here are held in the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May/June) . Navarathri festival is an important festival celebrated in the months of September/October.


¤ Opening Times

The temple is remains open for the public from 4.30 AM to 11.45 AM and 5.30 PM to 8.45 PM.

Sati Anusuya Temple

This Hindu temple is dedicated to a woman called Anusuya, who lived during Lord Rama’s time. In more recent times, sati was a rite whereby a widow immolated herself on the pyre of her dead husband. This practice was legally abolished by Lord William Bentick in 1829, and is now a criminal offense.
Literally speaking, sati is an exemplary woman. Sati Anusuya was completely loyal, faithful and dedicated to her husband, the great sage, Atri. Nonetheless, Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, (Creator, Preserver and Destroyer of the Universe) themselves were greatly attracted by her divine charms. This enraged Anusuya to such an extent that she transformed them into infants.

This explains why the Hindu Holy Trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, appeared in the form of infants, in Chitrakoot.
In the temple are also enshrined idols of the sages Durvasa and Atri, along with those of Anusuya’s son, Dattatreya, and, Chandrama, or the moon-god.

Teli Ka Mandir - An Architecture Splendor

This Rajput Temple is an amalgam of the northern and southern architectural styles of India, although many opine that it is closer in design to the temples of Orissa than the South.
The tallest and most impressive temple within the precincts of the Gwalior Fort, there are several theories as to how the shrine acquired its name.

According to one surmise Rashtrakuta Govinda III occupied the Fort in 794, and appointed the Telang Brahmins (check Religion for details on Brahmins) to supervise all religious ceremonies.
The temple got its name from them. According to another version, the monument is called the Teli Temple, because men of the Teli caste or oil merchants handled its construction. A third conjecture is that the name suggests a link with the Telangana region in modern Andhra Pradesh, suggesting the fusion of Dravidian and North Indian architectural styles.


¤ Magnificent Architecture Splendor

Whatever the truth, the fact remains that the Teli Temple, is a marvellous amalgam of the architecture features of the temples of North and South India.
The shikhara (spire) is definitely Dravidian in style, while the decorative details are in the Nagara style – specific to North India. Figures of river goddesses, amorous couples, coiled serpents, and a flying Garuda (Lord Vishnu’s vehicle) abound in the temple complex.

Mahakaleshwar Temple

¤ Temple Dedicated To Lord Shiva -- The Destroyer of Universe

MahakaleshwarTemple, mentioned by the great poet Kalidasa in his works, is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Destroyer of the Universe. The Shiva linga is worshipped throughout India as it symbolises Shiva’s incarnate power on earth. On the other hand, a jyotirlinga is the swayamabhu (self-manifested) linga, which is found only in 12 places in India.


¤ Rituals Performed

One of the rituals performed in this temple is the Bhasm Arti that involves smearing the linga with hot ashes from the burning ghats (cremation grounds). Shiva is believed to dwell in cremation grounds, and the ash-smearing ceremony is a homage to the Destroyer of the Universe himself. This form of worship is symbolic of Death and Life being inseparable, an idea that is inherent to most of the Hindu schools of thought. The idol of MahakaleshwarTemple is called Dakshinamurtias it faces south (dakshin: south, and murti: idol).


¤ Reconstruction of The Temple

The original temple was destroyed during Muslim invasions, and the temple was rebuilt recently by the Sindhias in the traditional Central Indian style.
It is a five-storeyed structure at the south end of the city. The curved superstructure is adorned with motifs on all sides, rising above the colonnaded porches.
Along the walls of the corridors in the temple rest old statues and sculptures, while in the courtyard lie ruined ancient shrines.
The storeys are ornamented with pierced balustrades, and the balconies have richly decorated roofs reminiscent of the Rajput style of architecture. Screens and pavilions are combined with marble colonnades leading to the linga within the sanctuary, making Mughal architecture come alive right in the heart of this Hindu temple. The Mahakaleshwar Temple is indeed a cherished site and a sculptural delight as well.

Meenakshi Temple

¤ The Most Celebrated Temple in Madurai

The Meenakshi temple complex at Madurai is a city temple. It has eminent and exquisitely carved towers enveloping the temple, dedicated to Goddess Meenakashi in Madurai. Considered as the south gateway, the Meenakshi temple consists of the twin temples of God Shiva and Goddess Meenakshi, each one as high as about nine storeys.

The exact time of temple's origin is not confirmed but the structures that are standing today date mostly from the 12th to the 18th century. The present temple standing today was built in the 17th century A.D. by th Nayak rulers. The temple is superb example of sculpture and magnificent architecture.

The Meenakshi temple has majestic stonewalls and towers rising out of the swarming streets of the city center. The image of Goddess Meenakshi is said to be carved out of a single emerald. This exotic temple was renovated by various kings, adding coiled corridors and larger-than-life sculptures. According to the legend of this temple the marriage of the goddess Meenakshi to Shiva actually took place in Madurai and is still celebrated every summer with great enthusiasm and gaiety.


¤ Special Features of the Temple

The Temple Towers or The Gopurams
The temple has 12 temple towers also known as the Gopurams. The outer towers of the temple work as landmarks of Madurai.

Gopura
The Gopuras or the Pyramidal gates have an enormous height of more than 50m. The entrance to the temple complex is indicated by towering gateways at the four cardinal points, while lesser gopuras lead to the sanctums of the main deities.

Stucco Work
After every 12 years, the figures of deities on the tower are reconditioned, repainted and ritually reconsecrated.

Ashta Shakthi Mandapam
To enter the temple through the eastern gateway, one has to first enter the Asta Shakti Mandapam (Hall). Built by Thirumalai Nayakar's wives Rudrapathi Ammal and Tholimamai. Next to this hall is the Meenakshi Nayaka Mandapa, a spacious columned hall used for shops and stores. This hall has a dedicated lamp-holder with 1,008 lamps, which are lit and decorated on festive occasions. The sculptures on the pillars tell us about some of the miracles of Lord Shiva and also the story of Meenakshi's birth and her life as the princess of Madurai.

Meenakshi Nayakkar Mandapam
Adjacent to the Ashta Shakthi Mandapam, this big hall consists of 110 pillars carrying the figures of a queer animal with a lion's body and an elephant's head called Yalli.

Potramaraikulam (Golden Lotus Tank)
The Potramaraikulam temple tank is an ancient tank where devotees take bath in the holy water. It is believed that the area around this tank was the meeting place of the TamilSangam - the ancient academy of poets. The tank is encircled by a pillared corridor. There are steps that lead down to the tank, enabling worshippers to take bathe in it.

Oonjal Mandapam
The Oonjal (swing) Mandapam and Killikoontu (parrot cage) Mandapam are situated on the western side of the tank. The golden idols of Meenakshi and Sundareswarar are seated on the swing in the Oonjal Madapam every Friday and hymns are sung as the deities swing to and fro. There many parrots in the Kilikoontu Mandapam who have been trained to repeat Goddess Meenakshi's name. The 28 pillars of the Mandapam are the most interesting parts, exhibiting some excellent Sculptures of figures from Hindu mythology.

Swami Sundareswarar Shrine
The Shrine of Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva) the consort of Goddess Meenakshi is to the north of Kilikoontu Mandapam . There's a gigantic idol of Sri Ganesh called Mukkurini Pillaiyar on the way. There's a stump of a Kadamba tree, in the outer pragaram (corridor outside the main shrine), which is said to be a part of the same tree under which Indra worshiped Shiva linga. There's also Kadambathadi Mandapam in the outer corridor and big hall called 'Velli Ambalam'. There's also an idol of Nataraja (Shiva as the Lord of Dance), covered with silver leaves. Thus this hall is named as Velli Ambalam (Silver Hall).

The Thousand Pillar Mandapam
The thousand pillar mandapam is regared as the 'wonder of the palace'. There are around 985 beautifully decorated columns. Each pillar is beautifully sculptured and presents the glory of the Dravidan sculpture. This hall also houses a Temple Art Museum, where you can see icons, photographs, drawings, etc., exhibiting the 1200 years old history. Other than this mandapam there many smaller and bigger mandapams in the temple.

Vasantha Mandapam
Built by Thirumalai Nayakkar, the mandapam is the venue of the Vasanthosavam - the Spring festival, celebrated in Vaikasi (April/May). The pillars present at the mandapam has elaborate sculptures of Lord Shiva, Goddess Meenakshi. There are scenes from their wedding as well as the figures of ten of the Nayak Kings and their consorts. The Vasantha Mandapam is also called Pudhu Mandapam.

Birla Mandir

Also Known As Lakshmi-Narayan Mandir
¤ Also Known As Birla Mandir

Strictly speaking, this structure is not part of the New Delhi Lutyens designed. Famous Birla Mandir in Delhi is essentially a Hindu temple which came up alongside with New Delhi and has therefore been pegged with it. Popularly known as the Birla Mandir, it is the first of the temples built across the country by the industrial family of Birla. Located just off Connaught Place on Mandir Marg, it is dedicated to Vishnu, the second of the Hindu Trinity of creator-preserver-destroyer, and his consort Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth.


¤ The Most Important Temples of Hindus

Built in 1938, famous Birla Mandir in Delhi was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi (Father of the Indian Nation) on the express condition that people of all castes and especially untouchables would be allowed in. (Refer to section People). Consequently a plaque at the gate reiterates that people of all faiths and classes are welcome. Till date, it remains one of the most popular temples in Delhi.


¤ The Architectural Brilliance of The Birla Mandir (Temple)

Birla Mandir is also famous for the festival of Janmashtami (birth of the Hindu deity Krishna). The festival is celebrated here with much goodwill and cheer.

The temple is designed in the Orissan style, with tall curved towers capped by large amalakas (circular ribbed motif at the summit of a temple tower). The exterior is faced with the white marble and red sandstone typical of Delhi’s Mughal architecture. The interior court is overlooked by two-storey verandahs on three sides; there are gardens and fountains at the rear. The profusion of sculptures, idols, spires and jalis, the Birla Mandir in Delhi is also considered as splendor in terms of its architecture.

Lotus Temple - Modern Temple of Delhi

Lotus Temple - a modern of Delhi is one such temple that facilitates the Bhai's Faith of Worship. The Baha’i House of Worship is dedicated to the oneness of all religions and mankind. Subsidiary buildings that afford relief to the suffering, sustenance to the poor, shelter to the wayfarer, solace to the bereaved and education to the ignorant will abound around the House of Worship.

There is no clergy in the Baha’i Faith and its service consists of prayers and readings of selections from Baha’i scriptures, and religious texts of the other faiths of the world.


¤ The Bahai's Faith

The Baha’is lay great emphasis on prayer and meditation. These, they believe are important instruments for the progress of the human soul, both in this world and the next. The Baha’is pray to one God, the Creator of the Universe.

The act of praying is described as ‘Conversation with God’.Meditation is perceived as the ‘Key for opening the doors of mysteries’. In that state, man withdraws himself from all outside objects and immerses himself in the ocean of spiritual life.

In the Baha’i Holy Writings, there are prayers for all occasions. Prayers can be offered individually or collectively. Great importance is given to prayers as is revealed in all the Scriptures.

However, the Baha’i Writings specify that the mere act of praying is not sufficient. The inspiration drawn from one's prayers must be translated into action that promotes the well being of humanity.

Kalkaji Temple

Situated beyond the commercial complex of Nehru Place lies this temple dedicated to the goddess Kalka Devi. Its oldest section dates back to 1764 and additions were made in the mid-19 ^th century. However most of the building is modern. Thousands of pilgrims throng the temple, especially in October during the nine days of navratrey, when a huge fair is held here.

Kedarnath North Indian Temple

¤ The Holy Pilgrimage Centre of Hindus

Altitude : 3,581m
Temperature : Max: 17.9°C, Min: 5.6<°C
Distance : 77km from Rudraprayag
42km from Badrinath, 228km from Rishikesh

Situated on the banks of the Mandakini River, Kedarnath is one of the four main Hindu pilgrim centres in Uttarakhand (Himalayan Uttara Pradesh). Though mainly famous as a religious centre, this place, surrounded by mountain ranges, also attracts tourists because of its beautiful landscape.

¤ Main Attractioins

The most famous monument of Kedarnath is the Kedarnath Temple. It is dedicated to Shiva(Destroyer in the Hindu Holy Trinity of Creator-Preserver-Destroyer) who is worshipped mainly in the form of a linga(symbolic phallus of Shiva). The jyotirlinga(the phallus of light) in this temple is one of the twelve jyotirlingasthroughout India, which makes Kedarnath one of the most sacred Hindu cities. The difference between a jyotirlingaand an ordinary lingais that while the former derives power from within itself, the latter is invested with mantra-shakti(power of a verse or phrase that has magical efficiency) by priests. Legend has it that the Temple was built by the Pandavas(the heroes of the epic, Mahabharata) to redeem themselves for the sins they had committed during the Bharata War (for more detail about the Bharata War see Ancient Scriptures). Going by this reckoning, the temple must be very ancient, probably dating back to the pre-Christian era. But evidence shows that it was built in the 8th century a.d. As a matter of fact, in the 8th centurya.d., the temple was reconstructed and renovated by Shankaracharaya (for more detail see History of Kerala) who also established a matha(Hindu monastic establishment) at Badrinath.

As the temple is located on the snowy heights of the Himalayas, the entrance into the temple is restricted throughout winter. Therefore, it is open six months a year, from May to October.


¤ Around Kedarnath

Vasuki Tal
Situated at an altitude of 4135m and surrounded by the Chaukhamba Mountain Ranges, Vasuki Tal is a lovely lake. You can get an excellent view of the Chaukhamba Peak (7,138m) from here.

Ukhimath
62km from Kedarnath
Well connected by road with Rudraprayag, Ukhimath is a peaceful place. The deities of the Kedarnath Temple are installed at this matha (Hindu monastic establishment) when the Kedarnath Temple closes during winter.

Devaria Tal
68km from Kedarnath
Located at a height of 2,430m, it is a very beautiful lake.You can get an excellent view of the Chaukhamba Peak from here.

Ajanta Caves

The famous Ajanta caves are situated about 99-kms away from Aurangabad district in the state of Maharashtra. These caves are regarded as a world heritage site and were carved out from the 2nd century BC to 6th century AD. They are placed in a horseshoe shape about 3.5 m away from the village. The river Wagura, a mountain stream flows along the bottom of the ravine. This river falls from a height of 200 ft, thus making a series of waterfalls. The sound of the waterfalls can be heard in the caves also.

The intriguing Ajanta Caves are carved out of large rocks and are 30 in number. These caves are dedicated to Lord Buddha. The followers and students of Buddhism resided here to study this religion. They have decorated these caves with the help of their excellent architectural skills and artistic paintings.

The carvings and the paintings in the caves depict the life stories of Lord Buddha. Along with this, several types of human and animal figures are also carved out of the rocks.


¤ Depiction of Contemporary Society

The carvings and the murals in the Ajanta depicted the contemporary society of that period. These artistic pieces showed all kinds of people from kings to slaves, women, men and children interwoven with flowers, plants, fruits, birds and beasts. There are also figures related to the people of that time, some of them are 'Yakshas', 'Kinneras' (half human and half bird) 'Gandharvas' (divine musicians) and 'Apsaras' (heavenly dancers).

Discovery The enchanting Ajanta caves were discovered accidentally by a company of British soldiers in the 19th century. Before the excavation of these caves they were hidden under the thick vegetation for a long time.


¤ The Caves

The incredible caves of Ajanta are dedicated exclusively to Buddhism. There are around 30 caves here and are divided into 'Chaitya-Grihas' (stupa halls) and 'Viharas' (dwelling halls). Around five of these caves (9, 10, 19, 26 and 29) are 'Chaitya-Grihas'. The rest of the caves are 'Sangharamas' or Viharas (monasteries). The caves 1, 2, 16 and 17 are important from the art point of view. They are great pieces of art compared to the contemporary art world.

These caves have exotic paintings illustrating the life and incarnations of Buddha. The carvings and the paintings of the Ajanta caves tell us about the imagination and creativity of the artist. The murals on the walls of these caves are still in a good condition, maintaining the freshness of the color and spreading vibrancy in the atmosphere. Visitors will definitely enjoy watching these great historical pieces of art.


¤ The Viharas

The Ajanta caves were divided into several viharas (dwelling halls) and chaitya-grihas (stupa halls), scooped out of the sloping rocks in the fifth century CE. The viharas consisted of a broad verandah. The roof of this verandah was supported by pillars and giving towards the interior on to a hall averaging in size about 35 ft. by 20 ft. Also there are dormitories to the left, right and back , opening on to this hall. The number of dormitories varied according to the size of the hall, and in the larger ones pillars supported the roof on all three sides, forming a sort of religious residence running round the hall.

There is also a shrine of lord Buddha in a niche facing the entrance and sometimes facing the subsidiary shrines to the right or left of the entrance. With the help of carvings, the facades of the viharas were decorated and the paintings adorned the walls and ceilings.


¤ The Chaityas

The chaitya-grihas are greater than the viharas. The largest chaitya-grihas being 94 1/2 ft. from the verandah to the back and 41 1/4 ft. across, including the cloister. Earlier, the chaitya-grihas at Ajanta had stupas, but later they had a standing or seated image of the Buddha in front of them.

One of the signs of changing patterns of worship is the bodhisattva cult that was practiced at Ajanta. The Bodhisattvas are heavenly beings on the brink to Buddhahood. It is said that they chose to remain in the world to help others towards salvation. The figures off these bodhisattvas are carved at the entrance of a vihara or chaitya-griha or are painted on walls.


¤ The Wall-Paintings

The Ajanta caves are divided into three groups. The oldest group is believed to belong to the period between 200 BCE to CE 200, the second group is believed to belong to the sixth and the third group to the seventh century. Almost all the interior walls and ceilings of the caves are covered with murals.

At the time of discovery (1817), these paintings were in a better condition than now. But fortunately, the school of art in Bombay has the copied versions of the paintings which have now disappeared from the caves. These copies are the major evidence of pictorial art in India before the rise of Hinduism. Thus, they are valuable and need preservation.


¤ Reach Ajanta

By Air : The nearest airport from Ajanta caves is the Aurangabad domestic airport (99 kms). Aurangabad is directly linked to Delhi, Udaipur, Jaipur, and Mumbai.

By Rail : Aurangabad is directly linked to Mumbai and Pune by rail. Jalgaon, a railhead on the Central Railways line, is 59 kilometres from Ajanta. Two trains Tapovan Express and Devgiri Express depart daily from Mumbai to Aurangabad.

By Road : Ajanta Caves are connected to a network of excellent roadways with Mumbai, Pune, Ahmednagar, Jalgaon, Shirdi, Nasik, Dhule, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Indore, Bijapur, and Aurangabad. One can easily get a bus ply for Ajanta from Aurangabad.

Dilwara Jain Temples

Dilwara Temples are one of the finest Jain temples & many even consider them architecturally superior to the Taj Mahal.
*Built between 11th & 13th century, the most outstanding feature are its exquisite carvings in marble.
The two temples Vimala Vasahi & Luna Vasahi are singled out by experts as superb examples of architecture.


¤ Dilwara Temples - An Architectural Marvel

Mount Abu's chief claims to fame are the Jain temples architecture at Dilwara, about 5km from Nakki lake. The Dilwara temples were built during the age of Jain supremacy and are one of the finest Jain temples India has to offer. Many experts consider them architecturally superior to the Taj Mahal. The architecture is marked by carvings that are not just ethereally beautiful in form but are often presented in a highly poetic context. For instance, one of the marble nayikas (maidens) is depicted as having just emerged from her bath. Droplets falling from her long hair are shown being drunk by a swan sitting by her feet.


¤ Exquisite Temple Carvings

Perhaps the most outstanding feature of Jain temple architecture is its carvings. and that is an understatement. Wherever one looks, be it pillars, ceilings, walls and floors, Jain temples go to the extreme – and beyond it – when it comes to adorning their temples with the very stone they work with. Jain mythology, saints, gods and goddesses, monks, devotees or just good old religious motifs all find their way in a spectacular rendezvous in marble and rock. Each nook and corner of Jain temples are so diligently carved that it’s a wonder that the edifice was created out of plain stone. Carving is perhaps not the right word for Jain temples – chiselling would be more appropriate. Their fragile delicacy merged with an architectural lexicon is what constitues the basis of these amazing temples. Simply put, there is not an inch where one can place his hand and not encounter a spectacular frieze.


¤ The Methodology of Carving

In the temples in Mount Abu even chiseling was put aside, and artisans adopted the sedulous task of thinning the marble into carved images, a worth noticing architectural splendor. This was done by gently scraping away the surface till a figure eventually emerged, so intricate and fine that it was intelligibly magnificent. This is the reason why the temples in Mount Abu and Ranakpur are said to be the finest Jain temples in the world.


¤ Marvelous Architecture Splendor

The architectural vocabulary of the region included ornamental rendering of flowers and creepers. The portrayal of Yakshini Chakreshwari, the attendant deity of Adinatha (first Jain saint) is an integral part of the temple. Keeping with the prevailing aesthetic norms the figures have sharp facial features set in broad faces and narrow waists. The intricately sculpted arches here are of two types; one with regular wavy undulations and the other, which is seen in the Vimala Vasahi, with exaggerated curves. Two of these temples have been singled out by many experts as outstanding. These are the Vimala Vasahi built in 1031-32AD and Luna Vasahi built in 1230.


¤ Vimala Vasahi Temple

This Jain temple was built by Vimala Shah (variously described as a merchant and a minister of the Solanki ruler of Gujarat) to atone for his sins. This temple, dedicated to the first Jain tirthankar (fordmaker) Adinatha, involved a work force of 2,700 men and took a total of 14 years to complete at an exuberant cost, a worth noticing specimen of architectural splendor. Prithvipala, a descendant of Vimala, is also known to have added to the magnificent temple in 1150AD. The temple of Vimala is supposed to the oldest and the most `complete’ example of Jain temple architecture. The rather simple façade hides an amazingly beautiful interior.


¤ The Gateway

The entrance to the temple is from the east through a domed porch which leads to a six-pillared pavilion with a three-tiered smosan (a conventional representation of the holy mountain of the Jains) in the center. The smosan is surrounded by 10 statues including that of the founder Vimala and his family, each seated on a beautiful elephant chiseled out of a single block of white marble, about four feet high. These representations are now badly defaced, having been destroyed by plundering zealots.


¤ The Shrine of Jina Adinatha

From the pavilion one passes into a secluded courtyard. Here the temple resolves itself into a colonnade which forms an open arcade containing the shrine. Seated in the center of this shrine is the cross-legged seated figure Jina Adinatha, to whom the temple is dedicated. The entire interior architecture is leniently covered with elaborate carvings, but the splendour of the domed ceiling of this hall is what sets it apart from all others. Percy Brown, in his book Indian Architecture: Buddhist and Hindu Period, details the profusion of imagery that went into this ornate ceiling: "This dome is built up of 11 concentric rings, five of which, interposed at regular intervals, depict patterns of figures and animals…The lowest contain the forefronts of elephants, their trunks intertwined, as many as a 150 of these in close ranks. A few mouldings above is another border representing images in nichés, also repeated many times, and again over that a similar course of dancing figures. This is followed higher up in the concavity by a series of horsemen, finishing in the topmost storey with more figures engaged in an endless dance. Between these various figured courses are ornamental repeats, gradually becoming more pronounced until towards the apex they culminate in a grouping of pendants not like festoons of foliage suspended from the high trees of a forest." Superimposed upon all this, athwart the outer concentric rings, are 16 brackets that easily catch the eye. Each of these is a female figure, representing a Vidyadevi, or goddess of knowledge.


¤ Luna Vasahi Temple

The temple of Luna Vasahi dedicated to the 22nd Jain saint Neminath, was built two centuries later by two brothers, Tejpala and Vasupala. The inscription in this temple, however, ascribes its erection and endowment to Tejpalaa in memory of his brother. The inscription records that it was consecrated in 1230AD. This temple, though slightly smaller than Vimala Vasahi, illustrates further efflorescence of the style, accompanied by a richer elaboration of decorations. The doorways are framed by ornate bases, and the eight pillars of the assembly hall are loftier and of different types. In some places the marble is so finely carved that it seems translucent. The highlight is again the ceiling with magnificently carved figures of dancers, animals, mythological figures and processions of horsemen. From the center of the ceiling hangs a clustered and finely carved marble pendant. It is said that its artisans were told to make the pendant the only one of its kind, and were offered the weight of their marble shavings in gold. The more intricately they chiseled out the marble the more weight the scales got, making the artisans richer with each shaving.


¤ Other Temple Attractions

There are two other temples in the complex, dedicated to Parshavantha and Adinatha. The Chaumukha temple, built in 1459, is the tallest and is notable for its pillared mandapa (hall). The Sri Risha Deoji temple is unfinished and has a huge 4.3 ton brass statue of a saint made of panchadhatu (five metals – gold, silver, brass, copper and zinc).