Monday, June 28, 2010
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Best Honeymoon Resorts
Best Honeymoon Resorts
There are many romantic destinations in India to explore on a honeymoon tour. From Goa, Kerala, Orissa to Mussoorie and Ooty, the list seems endless. In fact, places like Manali, Shimla and Darjeeling also make for interesting choices. Some of these are exotic hill stations and some fall under beach destinations. However, preference is not restricted to these obvious categories only. Many newly-weds like to plumb the architectural legacy of the country as well and, it is due to this, Orissa, Jaipur and Udaipur are seen grabbing top positions on the popularity chart. You can take your beloved to any of these destinations and can look for an accommodation in best honeymoon resort of your choice for a fulfilling experience.
You must be wondering why resorts and not hotels? Well, the answer is simple. Apparently, the range of services and facilities offered by the resorts are far extensive than the hotels. And, as honeymoon is the most crucial period of life, you cannot afford to leave things on fate.
To help you in your search, some of the best honeymoon resorts in India have been listed below. You can take a look at them and see if they meet for your purpose.
Fort Aguada Beach Resort in Goa
Kairali Ayurvedic Health Resort in Kerala
Sterling Fernhill in Ooty
River Country Resort in Manali
Marigold Holiday Cottages in Shimla
Country Inn Resort in Mussoorie
Dekeling Resort in Darjeeling
Toshali Sands Resort in Orissa
Best Honeymoon Resort in Goa
Fort Aguada Beach Resort is one of the famous resorts in Goa. Tourists, especially the honeymooners, get attracted to its romantic setting. Lying over 73 acres, the resort affords the magnificent views of Arabian Sea. It has been built with a scintillating range of cottages, villas and suites. It has 9 restaurants that provide tasty meals and drinks. The resort has excellent provision for adventure for sports loving couple and fitness facilities for the health conscious guests. You can go for the signature spa massage services of this Taj group of resort to further reinstate your energy. Its regular guest-friendly services are also extensive.
Best Honeymoon Resort in Kerala
Kairali Ayurvedic Health Resort in Palakkad can be selected for a pleasurable experience of honeymoon in Kerala. This idyllic resort is extended over 45 cares of verdant land and enjoys the mesmerizing panorama of the Western Ghats. Its 30 villas and presidential suites are synonymous with comfort. You can visit its onsite restaurant for Indian, Continental and Chinese preparations. Besides, at this resort, you will get access to the facilities of health center, outdoor pool, steam room, spa tub, residential astrology and palmistry. Yoga and meditation services are the added feature of the resort.
Best Honeymoon Resort in Ooty
Reflecting the true romantic spirit of Ooty, the Sterling Fernhill Resort sweeps all its guests off their feet through its exotic surroundings. The assimilation of terracotta tiles and sloping roof in the resort’s structure creates an impressive sight. You will be delighted to see the choice of cottages and apartments here. You and your partner can embark on a relaxing dining journey at the resort for Indian, Continental and Chinese treats. Barbecue and disco nights are pretty enjoyable. You can visit its club to try hand at different sports.
Best Honeymoon Resort in Manali
River Country Resort in Manali is a new entry. It’s an ideal place for the honeymooners. Away from the hustles of mall road, the resort commands the enticing views of pine & cedar forests and sparkling river. Its wooden cottages and suites are very fascinating. You will enjoy the flavors of Indian and Oriental cuisines concocted at its onsite restaurant. The bar is well stocked with imported drinks and wines. In addition, you can avail its health spa and gymnasium facilities for a complete leisurely experience.
Best Honeymoon Resort in Shimla
Marigold Holiday Cottages in Shimla evokes a different feeling of romance altogether. It has been designed with Duplex Cottages and Studio Apartments. Its dining facilities are limited. But, you cannot surely resist the taste of its multi cuisine recipes. If you prefer to have something cooked by yourself, you can certainly make use of its kitchenette facility. You can indulge your time in indoor games here. In addition, you can also seek its services for outdoor activity.
Best Honeymoon Resort in Mussoorie
Country Inn Resort in Mussoorie is also an ideal choice. Facing the spellbinding Doon Valley, the resort offers you the comfort of 13 brilliantly appointed rooms. The cottage accommodations of the resort are magnificent in size and truly comfortable. It has an onsite Multi-cuisine restaurant. Besides, its whole array of recreational facilities comprising indoor games, nature walks, trekking, paragliding, rock climbing, boating and rappelling are absolute fun trying. You would enjoy its bonfire arrangement as well.
Best Honeymoon Resort in Darjeeling
Amidst the serene surroundings of Darjeeling, the Dekeling Resort offers its honeymoon guests an experience of ultimate comfort and luxury. Whole ambiance of this resort is stunning. You would find here elegantly appointed rooms and a host of modern amenities. Its dining and wining facilities are moderate but quite enjoyable. On putting up at this resort, you will be entitled to use its exciting indoor and outdoor game facilities. There is a travel desk also at the resort. You can seek its assistance to explore the in and out of the locations in Darjeeling.
Best Honeymoon Resort in Orissa
Toshali Sands Resort in Orissa is also recognized as the preferred accommodation choice of the honeymooners. The resort is situated in Konark Marine Drive in Puri. Few minutes away from the famous attractions, the resort property has been built over 30 acres of verdant gardens. It houses as many as 105 rooms, suites and cottages. There is an onsite restaurant to savor inter-continental recipes and a bar to sample signature drinks. You and your better half would enjoy its ayurvedic massage treatments. In addition, moments of joy can also be sought at its swimming pool. The health and fitness services of the resort are also enviable.
Honeymoon Hotels in India
Honeymoon Hotel in Mussoorie | Honeymoon Hotel in Nainital
Honeymoon Hotel in Kerala | Honeymoon Hotel in Goa
Honeymoon Hotel in Rajasthan | Honeymoon Hotel in Udaipur
Honeymoon Hotel in Jaipur | Honeymoon Hotel in Delhi
Honeymoon Hotel in Mumbai | Honeymoon Hotel in Andaman
Honeymoon Hotel in Agra | Honeymoon Hotel in Cochin
Honeymoon Hotel in Darjeeling | Honeymoon Hotel in Kashmir
Honeymoon Hotel in Khajuraho | Honeymoon Hotel in M.P.
Honeymoon Hotel in Kanha | Honeymoon Hotel in Manali
Honeymoon Hotel in Ooty | Honeymoon Hotel in Shillong
Honeymoon Hotel in Shimla
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Kanya Kumari
Kanyakumari is a small town in the state of Tamil Nadu and is the southern most tip of the Indian sub-continent. Kanyakumari takes its name from the virgin Goddess Kumari Amman of Kanyakumari Temple situated in the town, on the sea-shore. Lakhs of tourist, round the year are lured by the serene beauty of this place and the spectacles of sunrise and sunset. Though sunrise can be viewed throughout the year, sunset is visible only from October 15 to March 15 from this southernmost tip. The sunset and moonrise can be seen almost simultaneously on full moon days from the same spot. It is a unique spectacle. Kanyakumari lies at the meeting point of the three oceans, Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea.
Andamaan and Nicobar Islands
Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a group of 572 emerald island islets in the eastern part of the Bay of Bengal south of Myanmar. The Islands float in the crystal clear blue water of Bay of Bengal. Andaman and Nicobar is one of the Union Territories of India that stretches over a length of more than 700 km from north to south. Andaman and Nicobar islands are the most beautiful beach destinations in India. The clear blue sea, the sunny sands and the colorful corals lure visitors to these islands. The Islands are in two groups; the Andaman and the Nicobar. The rare flora and fauna, underwater marine life, corals, tall coconut trees sway to the sea rhythm, crystal clear blue water, slow pace life makes this place an exceptional tourist destination.
Balaji Temple
Tirupati Balaji is one of the sacred Hindu temple in the state of Andhra Pradesh. The ancient and sacred temple of Lord Venkateshwara is located on the seventh peak of the Tirupati Hills. The Peak on which the temple is situated is called Venkatachalam. The other manes of Lord Venkateshawara are Balaji, Srinivasa and Perumal. The Balaji temple is the richest and most visited place of worship not only in India but around the globe. The temple encounters a huge number of visitors. The temple is visited by about 50,000 to 100,000 pilgrims daily, while on special occasions and festivals, like the annual Brahmotsavam, the number of pilgrim shoots up to 500,000, making it one of the most visited holy places in the world.
Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep is located at about 200 -300 km away from the west coat Kerala in the Arabian Sea. Lakshadweep is basically a group of 36 small islands. these islands are small and flat and hardly 4-5 m. above the sea level. Lakshadweep is the smallest UT of India. Out of 36 coral islands of Lakshadwep only 10 islands are inhabited. These islands in the Indian Ocean are surrounded by lagoons, tall coconut trees, and crystal clear blue water.he coral formations underwater form an amazingly colorful garden and the variety of fish that inhabit these waters is truly exotic. It is a great tourist destination for Divers.
Coorg
Also known as Kodagu, Coorg is a place said to haunt you forever with its timeless beauty. Described as the Scotland of India, Coorg lies at an altitude of 1,525 m on the Western Ghats about 252 kms from Bangalore in Karnataka. Misty hills, lush forest, acres and acres of tea and coffee plantations, orange groves, undulating streets and breathtaking views are what make Coorg an unforgettable holiday destination.Coorg has many verdant trekking routes in the midst of forests and hills, and it's best to go in the months from October to February. Some of the known trails are in the hills of Brahmagiri, where you could trek your way to the Iruppa Falls. Or you could trek to Pushpagiri, the second highest peak of Kodagu, or even Tadiandamol, the highest peak.For white water rafting check out the camps around Madikeri, which offer rafting down the Cauvery. Some fast paced action visit the Upper Barapole River to the south of Coorg in Brahmagiri. The best time for rafting is from mid-June to mid-September.
Ajanta and Ellora
Ajanta and Ellora are the pride of Maharashtra, India. The rock-cut caves of both these sites are world famous and illustrate the degree of skill and artistry that Indian craftsmen had achieved several hundred years ago. Ajanta dates from 100 B.C. while Ellora is younger by some 600 years. The village of Ajanta is in the Sahyadri hills, about 99 kms. From Aurangabad; a few miles away in a mammoth horseshoe-formed rock, are 30 caves overlooking a gorge, each forming a room in the hill and some with inner rooms. Al these have been carved out of solid rock with little more than a hammer and chisel and the faith and inspiration of Buddhism. Here, for the Buddhist monks, the artisans excavated Chaityas (chapels) for prayer and Viharas (monasteries) where they lived and taught. Many of the caves have the most exquisite detailed carvings on the walls, pillars and entrances as well as magnificent wall paintings. Ajanta and Ellora has formed an epicenter of interest for those who appreciate and are eager to know more about Indian history and art.
Khajuraho
The Heart of India is Madhya Pradesh, and the hearth of Madhya Pradesh is Khajuraho. Khajuraho is an example of rich cultural heritage of India. Khajuraho is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Khajuraho is one of the best tourist destinations famous for its sculptures, temples and architecture. The realistic sculptures of the temples are famous world wide. These temples were built during the Chandela Empire. Most of the temples depict the lifestyle of a woman in medieval age. They represent life in 11th century. The Sculptures of Khajuraho are an example of a highly matured civilization. These temples were constructed in between 950 – 1050 A.D. The name Khajuraho came from the tree “Khajur” (the date palm tree) which is found in good number in this region. Now there are only 22 temples left after the natural calamities. Prior there were a total of 85 temples at Khajuraho.
Tajmahal
I guess no one in the world is unaware of this Monument of Love. This monument has found a place in the Seven Wonders of the World. Taj Mahal was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaj Mahal. Thus the Monument was also named after her name. The monument was constructed by 20,000 workers and took about 16 years to complete. The white marble which was used to build Taj Mahal was brought from the quarries of Makrana, in Nagaur district of Rajasthan. Over 1000 elephants were used to transport the big rocks of white marbled used in construction. 28 kind of rare & semi precious and precious stones were used to decorate the ineer inlay of Taj Mahal. The central dome of Taj Mahal is 187 feet high at the centre. May people say that after the completion of Taj Mahal Shah Jahan ordered amputation of the hands of all the workers. So that nobody is able to construct a monument like this again on this earth.
Akshardham Temple
The Akshardham temple in Gandhinagar Gujarat is one of the popular pilgrimage sites in India. The Temple attracts nearly 2 million visitors each year. The Temple is dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan. The temple is famous for its unusual and massive architecture. The Akshardham temple is the largest temple in Gujarat in terms of the complex. The surroundings are peaceful and clean. About 6000 metric tons of long durable pink sandstone was imported from Rajasthan and has been engraved by the skilled artisans of Bansipahadpur. It stands tall with a height of 108 feet. The shrine is located in the multi-acre patch, called Sahajanand van, with convoluted figurine of Hindu Gods, magnificently landscaped patch of land, eatery and amusements. The interiors have stunning columns that mount up to an elevated dome. A special light and sound show is organized for the visitors here. The show depicts the glorious past of Sanatan Dharam.
Golden Temple
Golden temple :
Golden Temple, Amritsar is one of the famous Sikh Shrines in India. People across the world come here visit Shri Harmander Sahib. It is one of the holy pilgrimages where not only Sikhs but people from different countries and of different religion pay their homage. It is popularly known as “Golden Temple” because of the Gold coating on the main building of the Darbar Sahib. The Harmandir Sahib was invaded and destroyed many a times by the Afghan and other rulers. Sri Harmandir Sahib, is built on a 67ft. square platform in the center of the Sarovar(tank). The temple itself is 40.5ft. square. It has a door each on the East, West, North and South. Main attractions to see inside Golden Temple premise are Akal Takht, Baba Atal, Sri Guru Ramdas Niwas, The SGPC Office, Central Sikh Museum and the food at Guru ka Langar.
Proud Of INDIA
Believe me there are so many fabulous places to see in India but to compile a list of only 20 best places was not an easy task. Still I tried my level best to cover the best of India. In my last article 20 Places to see in India Before You Die (Part I), I covered Leh Ladakh, Kashmir, Goa, Rajasthan, Bombay, Kerala, Ooty, Madurai, Uttaranchal and Kodaikanal. In this article I'll cover Golden temple, Akshar Dham, Taj Mahal, Khajuraho, Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Coorg, Lakshadweep, Tirupati Balaji, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Kanyakumari.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Friday, June 4, 2010
Kerala
Kuttanad :
The much acclaimed “Rice bowl of Kerala”, spread over 75 km, is famous for its vast green paddy fields with the scenic backwaters in the backdrop. This picture-postcard place is surrounded by a vast expanse of water. Enjoy the surreal beauty of the enchanting backwaters of Kerala with a houseboat cruise along the picturesque Vembanad backwaters. Kuttanad is also famous for its coir related industries with many households in the region tied to this sector directly or indirectly.
Pathiramanal :
A safe sanctuary for indigenous and rare migratory birds, this island situated in Vembanad Lake is an Ornithologists delight. This beautiful island is located between Thannermukkam and Kumarakom.If you like, you can rent a speed boat to reach the island.
Karumadikkutan Temple :
Kerala was once a Buddhist centre; though much has been lost a few remnants lie scattered throughout the state. Karumadi village, a small town near Ambalappuzha, is famous for Karimadikkuttan - a black granite statue of Lord Buddha dating back to the 10th century AD.
Mannarasala :
The Sree Naga Raja Temple at Mannarasala is a famous pilgrim centre for worshippers of serpent gods. The temple is quite unique as the rituals are traditionally conducted by a high priestess. The temple is located near Harippad at a distance of about 32 km from Alappuzha town. The temple has more than 30,000 images of the serpent gods and is the largest of its kind in Kerala.
Mararikkulam :
Located at a distance of 12 Km from Alleppey, Mararikkulam is famous for its palm fringed golden sand beach. The beach is ideal for indulging in swimming and other water-sports..
Punnapra :
Punnapra has its name written on the chronicles of history, not with golden letters but with red. It is here during the 1946 revolt, the communist activists and Travancore state police confronted each other. The place is famous for the memorial monument erected to honor the valor and courage of these brave martyrs.
Ambalapuzha Temple :
The Ambalapuzha Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna is popularly known as the “Dwaraka” of South. The temple is famous for its exquisite mural paintings and the “Ambalapuzha Palpayasam” – sweet milk porridge. Kunjan Nambiar performed his satirical art form - “Ottan Thullal”, for the first time in the temple premises. The temple is built in the traditional Kerala architecture style. Ambalapuzha is located at a distance of about 10 km south of Alleppey town.
Krishnapuram Palace :
The Krishnapuram Palace was built in the 18th century by the ruler of erstwhile Travancore kingdom Marthanda Varma Maharaja. The palace is famous for its exquisite mural paintings and architectural marvel. The huge “Gagendra Moksham” mural measuring 14 feet by 11 feet is the largest of its kind in Kerala. The palace is today an archeological museum housing many antique sculptures, bronzes, paintings etc.
Alleppey Beach
The beach, frequented by both local and international tourists, is famous for its natural beauty. The 137 year old pier that extends out into the sea is a remnant of Aleppey’s glorious past when it was a major port city. Dense palm grooves, a beautiful garden on the sea shore, an ancient light house all these further accentuate the beauty of this scenic beach. There are facilities for relaxing and unwinding at the nearby Vijay Sea Park and Sea View Park.
QST and R Block Kayal
This land has been reclaimed from the backwaters and is protected by dikes to prevent it from flooding. The place boasts of an uncanny resemblance with the famous dikes of Holland..
Arthunkal Church
This famous shrine dedicated to St. Sebastian was built by the Portuguese friars. The church is located at a distance of 22 km to the north of Alleppey near Cherthala. Christians and people from different faiths converge here during the annual feast of St. Sebastian held during the month of January.
The much acclaimed “Rice bowl of Kerala”, spread over 75 km, is famous for its vast green paddy fields with the scenic backwaters in the backdrop. This picture-postcard place is surrounded by a vast expanse of water. Enjoy the surreal beauty of the enchanting backwaters of Kerala with a houseboat cruise along the picturesque Vembanad backwaters. Kuttanad is also famous for its coir related industries with many households in the region tied to this sector directly or indirectly.
Pathiramanal :
A safe sanctuary for indigenous and rare migratory birds, this island situated in Vembanad Lake is an Ornithologists delight. This beautiful island is located between Thannermukkam and Kumarakom.If you like, you can rent a speed boat to reach the island.
Karumadikkutan Temple :
Kerala was once a Buddhist centre; though much has been lost a few remnants lie scattered throughout the state. Karumadi village, a small town near Ambalappuzha, is famous for Karimadikkuttan - a black granite statue of Lord Buddha dating back to the 10th century AD.
Mannarasala :
The Sree Naga Raja Temple at Mannarasala is a famous pilgrim centre for worshippers of serpent gods. The temple is quite unique as the rituals are traditionally conducted by a high priestess. The temple is located near Harippad at a distance of about 32 km from Alappuzha town. The temple has more than 30,000 images of the serpent gods and is the largest of its kind in Kerala.
Mararikkulam :
Located at a distance of 12 Km from Alleppey, Mararikkulam is famous for its palm fringed golden sand beach. The beach is ideal for indulging in swimming and other water-sports..
Punnapra :
Punnapra has its name written on the chronicles of history, not with golden letters but with red. It is here during the 1946 revolt, the communist activists and Travancore state police confronted each other. The place is famous for the memorial monument erected to honor the valor and courage of these brave martyrs.
Ambalapuzha Temple :
The Ambalapuzha Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna is popularly known as the “Dwaraka” of South. The temple is famous for its exquisite mural paintings and the “Ambalapuzha Palpayasam” – sweet milk porridge. Kunjan Nambiar performed his satirical art form - “Ottan Thullal”, for the first time in the temple premises. The temple is built in the traditional Kerala architecture style. Ambalapuzha is located at a distance of about 10 km south of Alleppey town.
Krishnapuram Palace :
The Krishnapuram Palace was built in the 18th century by the ruler of erstwhile Travancore kingdom Marthanda Varma Maharaja. The palace is famous for its exquisite mural paintings and architectural marvel. The huge “Gagendra Moksham” mural measuring 14 feet by 11 feet is the largest of its kind in Kerala. The palace is today an archeological museum housing many antique sculptures, bronzes, paintings etc.
Alleppey Beach
The beach, frequented by both local and international tourists, is famous for its natural beauty. The 137 year old pier that extends out into the sea is a remnant of Aleppey’s glorious past when it was a major port city. Dense palm grooves, a beautiful garden on the sea shore, an ancient light house all these further accentuate the beauty of this scenic beach. There are facilities for relaxing and unwinding at the nearby Vijay Sea Park and Sea View Park.
QST and R Block Kayal
This land has been reclaimed from the backwaters and is protected by dikes to prevent it from flooding. The place boasts of an uncanny resemblance with the famous dikes of Holland..
Arthunkal Church
This famous shrine dedicated to St. Sebastian was built by the Portuguese friars. The church is located at a distance of 22 km to the north of Alleppey near Cherthala. Christians and people from different faiths converge here during the annual feast of St. Sebastian held during the month of January.
Alappuzha - Alleppey
Alappuzha - Alleppey
The Enchanting Venice of the East
Alappuzha or Alleppey is a place where beauty abounds and nature’s surprises await you at every turn. This land of timeless beauty will hold spectators captivated with its lush greenery, emerald backwaters and sparkling white-sand beaches. Situated in the southwestern part of Kerala, the place is famous for its stunning natural splendors. Alleppey, popularly known as the “Venice of the East”, is famous for its labyrinthine network of backwaters and canals and its extensive sea shore stretching over 82 km.
Being flanked by an extensive network of backwaters and, paddy fields, the inhabitants of Alleppey lead a distinct water-based lifestyle quite unique to the region. The region is well acclaimed for its religious tolerance - with people from different walks of faith living together harmoniously and peacefully for centuries. The “Vallamkaly” or Snake Boat Race, a major event held in the backwaters of Alleppey attracting hoards of travelers, is supposedly the biggest team-sport event in the world.
Marthanda Varma Maharaja, the erstwhile ruler of the princelyTravancore state, made Alappuzha his stronghold bastion after he defeated the Dutch in the 17th century. In the year 1762 AD, Raja Kesavadasan, the then Diwan of Travancore, built an extensive network of canals crisscrossing the town of Alleppey, which became a crucial factor that fuelled the economic growth of the region.
Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal.
A monument of love, Symbol of art & beauty, Wonder of architecture.
Taj Mahal Information
Taj Mahal - Location
The Taj stands proudly on the bank of river Yamuna, in the historic city of Agra in India. The city of Agra is located in Uttar Pradesh, a north Indian state. Agra once used to be capital of Mughal Empire in India.
Today this sixteenth century historical structure is one of the most celebrated monument in the world.
Who built the Taj Mahal?
It was Mughal emperor Shah Jahan who built (actually got it built) the Tajmahal, in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The theory about 'who built the Taj mahal?' has different views. A few people argue that the structure was already there which Shahjahan used later and thus it was not him who built it. But this theory has negligible acceptance and as the literature world over states, it was Shahjahan who built the Taj Mahal.
Taj Mahal Story
The brief story of why TajMahal was contructed is like this.
Mumtaz Mahal (Mum-Taj Mahal) was most beloved wife of Shahjahan, Mughal Emporer who then had rule over most parts of India. As literature states Mumtaz Mahal died while giving birth to their fourteenth child. But before her death she had asked to ShahJahan for three promises
ShahJahan would marry again
Shahjahan would contruct Taj for Her
Shahjahan would visit Tajmahal every year on her dealth anniversary
It is believed that death of Mumtaz Mahal had saddened Shah Jahan so much that his hair turned grey in just a few days. But, he kept his first two promises.
Taj Mahal was bulit and it took 22 years for building it (different literature has mentioned different timespan ranging from 16 year to 22 years). Best architects and artists from different parts of world were used in the construction. The chief architect was believed to be from Iran, we don't know his name (again there many arguments regarding who was architect of Taj Mahal).
Mumtaj Mahal perhaps died in Burhanpur, a city in Central Indian state Madhya Pradesh. It is said that her body was initially kept in this city ( which is on the bank of river Tapti ) , and then body was shifted to her final home - The Taj Mahal, when construction of this monument was complete.
Shahjahan could not keep his third promise, though. He was dethrowned by his son Aurangzeb and was kept under house arrest untill his eventual death.
The story of building of Tajmahal also has a sad note. It is argued that the thumbs of best artists involved in the construction of Taj Mahal were cut to ensure that they could not build such masterpiece again anywhere else. Some people believe hands were cut while some believe that no hands or thumbs were cut but only contract was made for not building such architecture again.
A monument of love, Symbol of art & beauty, Wonder of architecture.
Taj Mahal Information
Taj Mahal - Location
The Taj stands proudly on the bank of river Yamuna, in the historic city of Agra in India. The city of Agra is located in Uttar Pradesh, a north Indian state. Agra once used to be capital of Mughal Empire in India.
Today this sixteenth century historical structure is one of the most celebrated monument in the world.
Who built the Taj Mahal?
It was Mughal emperor Shah Jahan who built (actually got it built) the Tajmahal, in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The theory about 'who built the Taj mahal?' has different views. A few people argue that the structure was already there which Shahjahan used later and thus it was not him who built it. But this theory has negligible acceptance and as the literature world over states, it was Shahjahan who built the Taj Mahal.
Taj Mahal Story
The brief story of why TajMahal was contructed is like this.
Mumtaz Mahal (Mum-Taj Mahal) was most beloved wife of Shahjahan, Mughal Emporer who then had rule over most parts of India. As literature states Mumtaz Mahal died while giving birth to their fourteenth child. But before her death she had asked to ShahJahan for three promises
ShahJahan would marry again
Shahjahan would contruct Taj for Her
Shahjahan would visit Tajmahal every year on her dealth anniversary
It is believed that death of Mumtaz Mahal had saddened Shah Jahan so much that his hair turned grey in just a few days. But, he kept his first two promises.
Taj Mahal was bulit and it took 22 years for building it (different literature has mentioned different timespan ranging from 16 year to 22 years). Best architects and artists from different parts of world were used in the construction. The chief architect was believed to be from Iran, we don't know his name (again there many arguments regarding who was architect of Taj Mahal).
Mumtaj Mahal perhaps died in Burhanpur, a city in Central Indian state Madhya Pradesh. It is said that her body was initially kept in this city ( which is on the bank of river Tapti ) , and then body was shifted to her final home - The Taj Mahal, when construction of this monument was complete.
Shahjahan could not keep his third promise, though. He was dethrowned by his son Aurangzeb and was kept under house arrest untill his eventual death.
The story of building of Tajmahal also has a sad note. It is argued that the thumbs of best artists involved in the construction of Taj Mahal were cut to ensure that they could not build such masterpiece again anywhere else. Some people believe hands were cut while some believe that no hands or thumbs were cut but only contract was made for not building such architecture again.
Angkor…
The history of Angkor Wat dates back to the kingdom of Funan. This kingdom was established by an Indian Brahmin, and in AD200, the country was peacefully settled by Indian traders. Four hundred years later, the kingdom had become a prosperous trading region. As the area was located on the Pilgrim rout between China and India, Hinduism and Chinese Buddhism was adopted by the new settlers. The Indian and Chinese influence can still be felt in Cambodia, and the temples of Angkor Wat closely resembles Hindu and Buddhist temples that can be found in Northern India and in Nepal. In the end of AD600, the Funan Empire lost much of its power to the kingdom of Chenla. The capital of this new empire, Sambor, was located about 40 miles to the Southeast of Angkor. During this time, beautiful sculptures and carvings in sand-stone was popular. In AD750, a king with a reputation of being a war-like person, who was able to expand the Chenla kingdom. However, trade with India stopped, and the Indonesian Empire raised to power.
In AD800, the kingdom of Kambuja was established, and king Jayavarman I took control over the kingdom. He built several capitals near Angkor Wat, were responsible for many social changes, and was able to size land to the North and to the East. In AD889, a nephew of Jayavaram became the new emperor, and he was able to bring peace and unity to the Khmer Kingdom. In AD944, Jayavarman V established many Mahayana Buddhist temples near Angkor, and moved the court to Yasodharapura, at Angkor. Cultures prospered, and so did the Khmer empire. In AD1000, Suryavarman, a young man who may have come from the Malayan provinces of the empire, ascends the throne of Kambuja. He would become the king of Kambuja for over 50 years. He is responsible for the planning and foundations of the city of Angkor. In AD1051, Udayadityavarman II succeed Suryavarman, and continued to build the city of Angkor, and restored many of the temples. Angkor was now both a sacred temple city and the center of a vast irrigation system.
The city of Angkor…
Angkor Wat, one of the most beautiful and mysterious historical sites in the world. Located over 192 miles to the North-West of Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh, Angkor has been “protected” from tourism, and the customs and the cultures of the people living there have not changed much. However, intense internal warfare for over fifty years has impacted on the people and to an extent on the physical structure of the temples at Angkor.
For many years, Angkor Wat was totally isolated from the Western World. Large, thick jungles covers the area, and it is located in the center of Cambodia. The French colonialists were the first westerners to get exposed to Angkor. They heard rumors from the local population about “temples built by gods or by giants.” Most of the colonialists referred these rumors to folk tales, but some believed that there really was a “lost city of a Cambodian empire”, which had once been powerful and wealthy.
The temples were first discovered by French missionaries in 1860. Henri Mahout, a French botanist started intensive research and restoration programs. These research efforts continued until 1968, when the Vietnam war disrupted the studies. Initially, he did not believe that the temples were built by Cambodians, but by another race which had concurred and occupied Cambodia for over 2000 years ago. His theory would later be proven to be incorrect, after that researchers discovered scripts on the walls of the temples, and stone sculptures, that have made it possible for archeologists to piece together the history of Cambodia. Now it is known that Angkor, was the great capital city of the Khmer empire from the city’s founding in about AD 880 until about 1225.
Kumbhalgarh Fort - Rajasthan
Located 64 kms north of Udaipur in the wilderness, Kumbhalgarh is the second most important citadel after Chittorgarh in the Mewar region. Cradled in the Aravali Ranges the fort was built in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha. Because of its inaccessibility and hostile topography the fort had remained un-conquered. It also served the rulers of Mewar as a refuge in times of strife. The fort also served as refuge to the baby king Udai of Mewar. It is also of sentimental significance as it is the birthplace of Mewar's legendary King Maharana Partap.
The fort is self-contained and has within its amalgam almost everything to withstand a long siege. The fort fell only once that too to the combined armies of Mughal and of Amber for scarcity of drinking water. Many magnificent palaces an array of temples built by the Mauryas of which the most picturesque place is the Badal
Mahal or the palace of the clouds. The fort also offers a superb birds view of the surroundings. The fort's thick wall stretches some 36 kms and is wide enough to take eight horses abreast. Maharana Fateh Singh renovated the fort in the 19th century. The fort's large compound has very interesting ruins and the walk around it can be very rewarding.
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