/countries/show/india/2.rss en-us The Nilgiri Biosphere reserve covers three states of South India, and is rich in flora and fauna. It includes a belt of forests essential for the migration and long-term survival of the Asian elephant, and it is also home to popular wildlife sanctuaries like the Bandipur National Park, located in the foothills of the Nilgiris. Bandipur National Park is also a Tiger reserve, being one of the earliest to be brought under “Project Tiger”. This is a program that was started in 1973 to save India’s national animal, the tiger, from extinction in specially designated “tiger reserves”. Located in the state of Karnataka, Bandipur National Park covers around 880 sq km, and is home to a fifth of the Asian elephants in the world, and about 130 tigers. You can see a few of them in the safari zone. This is the part of Bandipur National Park which is open to tourists, and where you can see a plethora of wildlife in its natural habitat. Stay in one of the many resorts or hotels in Bandipur, and take a safari into the jungle. You can go into the Bandipur National Park twice a day (early morning and evening) in a bus or open jeep, accompanied by trained naturalists, and see different species of wildlife at close quarters. Naturalists can identify the tigers by their distinctive stripes, so the tigers and tigresses have been given typical Indian names like Ram, Agastya, Gowri and Kaveri. Bandipur National Park was once the private hunting grounds of the Maharajah (king) of Mysore because of its rich wildlife, including tigers. This is due to the variety of vegetation and the presence of a number of waterholes within Bandipur National Park. The forests range from scrub and dry deciduous, to moist in the interior, bamboo forests (which are favourites of elephants) and grassy expanses, which are suitable for grazing deer (which is in turn the tiger’s prey). As the jeep bumps over the winding dirt tracks of Bandipur National Park, remain alert for unexpected sightings. Some tourists know only of the tiger, but there is a fascinating display of other wildlife in Bandipur National Park. There is the deer like the chital (spotted deer), and sambar (the largest Asiatic deer), wild boar, langur (monkey), sloth bear, dhole (Indian wild dog), mongoose, gaur (commonly known as the Indian bison), and of course, herds of elephants. Do not be alarmed if there is a “mock” charge by a matriarch leading the herd, which is to ward off any apparent danger to the young ones in the herd. You can have this electrifying experience on almost every Bandipur Park tour. A number of reptiles can be seen, and if you’re lucky, a tiger or tigress with cubs; or the graceful leopard may just cross your path. A bird enthusiast will soon lose count of sightings, as there are over 300 species of birds in Bandipur National Park. These include the shy jungle fowl, noisy woodpecker, flycatcher, crested serpent eagle, common hawk cuckoo, lapwing, shrike, cormorant, black winged stilt, snake bird, kingfisher and fish owl. Water birds are commonly visible around the waterholes of Bandipur National Park. A spellbinding sight is that of a peacock, India’s national bird, in a graceful dance with its colourful feathers fanned out. Even if you do not spot a tiger or your favourite wildlife on a Bandipur Park tour, you will not be disappointed with its natural beauty—the play of light and colour in the jungle, the beauty of the light mist at dawn, the first rays of the sun highlighting the beauty of the grazing chital, and the last rays lighting up Bandipur National Park in a surreal glow. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast or a first-time visitor to the jungle, it is sure to be a life-changing experience, especially if you can get a glimpse of the famed Indian tiger. Even seeing the pugmarks of the tiger on the tracks is a thrilling experience. The odds are that you will hear the call of the wild, and be drawn back to Bandipur National Park, many times over. Thu, 01 Dec 2011 17:17:52 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/bandipur-national-park http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/bandipur-national-park The Sunderbans is the largest mangrove forest in the world, with one third of it in India, and the rest in Bengal. You’ll be amazed at how beautiful the Sunderbans is as the world’s largest and most fertile delta. Here, the Ganges breaks up into hundreds of tributaries, and flows through the forests, finally emptying its water in the Bay of Bengal at Ganga Sagar. The Ganges is India’s holiest and most fertile river, and millions of people depend on it for its water and other services, such as washing, bathing, drinking and agriculture. The Ganges brings along rich deposits as it flows from the Himalayas to the plateau, to the plains. It is best to explore Sunderbans by taking a 2-day government-run package or a private package from Kolkata. You start at around 8 a.m. and catch the bus to the tributary, about one hour away. You’ll be spending the next 30 hours on a boat, taking in the splendid scenery through your cabin window. There’ll be a terrace on the boat which has arranged tables and chairs. The view of the mangrove forests from the terrace is spellbinding. The whole scene appears to be right out of a fairytale. The Sunderbans is the home of the famous Royal Bengal Tiger. There are hundreds of small villages and settlements along the banks of the tributaries, and the village folk sure have a problem with the impending tigers, but they respect that it is a near-extinct animal, and the killing of tigers is banned. Villages have now trained dogs that can sense the presence of a tiger in the vicinity. You can sit back and relax on the terrace of the boat, enjoying the splendid views of the mangrove forests. There are about four points where the boat takes you for a glimpse of the wildcat or deer. However, the chances of seeing a tiger are very slim and you should come to Sunderbans not to see a tiger but to appreciate the beauty of the forests. Food is served on the terrace, and the package includes lunch, tea, and next day’s breakfast. The boat anchors itself during the night and continues its route again at 4 a.m. (going at a very slow pace so as not to wake you up). When you wake up at around 8 a.m., you see the mangrove forests pass by. After an hour, you can see the mighty banks of the Ganges River. The river appears so wide at that point that even the seas may look small in comparison. After all, this is the world’s largest delta. Fri, 02 Sep 2011 19:19:52 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/the-sunderbans http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/the-sunderbans There are a number of wildlife destinations, including elephant camps, in the south Indian state of Karnataka. The most popular and unique camp is Dubare Elephant Camp, where you can interact at close quarters with the Asian/Indian elephant. At the Dubare Elephant Camp, visitors can help to bathe and feed the elephants, watch them at a training session, and finally enjoy a short ride on one of these gentle giants. They are all tamed and trained elephants, and are not dangerous. Dubare Elephant Camp is located in the beautiful Coorg district of Karnataka, on the banks of the river Cauvery. Therefore, the last part of the journey is a short ride in a motorboat across the river. Visitors are greeted by unique scenes at the camp: a line of majestic elephants being led by their mahouts (care takers) down to the river for a bath. The elephants spend the night in the jungle, and return to Dubare elephant camp for a few hours every morning and evening. As they enter the river, drinking deeply, playing and splashing around, their mahouts lovingly tend to their charges. You too can wade into the water to help scrub and clean the elephants. The bathing ritual at Dubare Elephant camp can take an hour or more, and as soon as it is over, the elephants climb up to the feeding area for the mid-morning snack. Go to the enclosure for visitors, and see the elephants lined up along the enclosure wall. You can feed them bananas and ragi balls (an indigenous cereal), with some help from the mahouts. The kitchen for Dubare Elephant Camp is within the enclosure. You can see men stirring the ragi in huge pots over open fires. At least fifteen kilograms of the cereal is cooked every day. Once the meal is over, the elephants are led back to the forest for the day. Special training sessions are sometimes held inside Dubare Elephant Camp, such as two elephants being trained to pull down, stack and arrange logs of wood according to the mahout’s instructions. You really have to see these animals at work to believe their dexterity, precision and tirelessness. Afterwards, you can enjoy an elephant ride around Dubare Elephant Camp. Elephant interaction is not the only activity at the Dubare Elephant Camp. You can also enjoy fishing, rafting (in season), bird watching and coracle rides (a circular, indigenous boat made of bamboo and waterproof material). Float lazily down the river in a coracle to relax and forget the stress and grime of the city. If you are a bird watcher, train your eyes on the lush green vegetation and overhanging branches along the banks. You will spot partridges, cormorants, kingfishers and woodpeckers. A trip to the Dubare Elephant Camp is bound to be an unforgettable experience, especially if you can stay there for a couple of days. Tue, 30 Aug 2011 20:05:35 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/dubare-elephant-camp http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/dubare-elephant-camp Laxmi Narayan Temple of Delhi is the place where Hindus go to feel the presence of Lord Narayan and Goddess Laxmi. Located on Mandir Marg near Connaught Place in Delhi, this grand and architecturally rich temple is a major landmark and famous religious attraction of the city of Delhi. The Laxmi Narayan Temple is dedicated to Lord Narayan and Goddess Laxmi. The construction of Laxmi Narayan Temple started in 1933, and took almost 6 years to complete. Since this temple was constructed by the industrialist Birla family, it came to be popularly known as Birla Mandir after some years of its construction. The Laxmi Narayan Temple is a perfect example of Orissan architectural style, and has three tall shikaras (spires) that can be easily seen from some distance. The tallest spire of the Laxmi Narayan Temple is around 165 feet high. To get to the main courtyard of the temple of Laxmi Narayan, you have to climb a series of steps. After you reach the courtyard, you can easily get into the main shrine of the temple where there are elegant idols of Goddess Laxmi and Lord Narayan. Lord Narayan is said to be the preserver of the world, and is one of the ‘Tridevs’ (three important deities) in Hindu religion. His consort Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, is said to bestow wealth to her devotees or to any person with whom she is highly pleased. Along with the main shrine, a number of smaller shrines with idols of Lord Krishna, Ganesha, Hanuman, Shiva and Parvati, Goddess Durga and other deities are present in the Laxmi Narayan Temple. Geeta Bhawan is a big hall, ornate with beautiful images illustrating interesting stories from Indian mythology. Group prayers are held every day in this hall. Engraved stones displaying sacred text from holy books adorn the walls of the temple. The whole complex is decorated with beautiful paintings done by artists from Rajasthan, and various impressive sculptures add to the beauty of this temple which also enshrines holy Vedas: a set of four highly sacred religious books in Hindus philosophy. The tranquil ambience of the Laxmi Narayan Temple is interrupted regularly by the devotional music that is played in the main shrine. Priests and music groups can be seen here singing religious and devotional songs. Each year in the month of August, the festival of Janmashtami (birthday of Lord Shri Krishna) is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the temple of Laxmi Narayan. Devotees eagerly wait for months to be part of the celebrations of this festival. They sing and dance to please Lord Krishna. Celebrations continue until midnight when the priest declares the birth of Lord Krishna. Charnamrat (holy water) and prasad (food offered to the lord) is then distributed among devotees. After all these celebrations, people return to their homes. Laxmi Narayan Temple is a place that boasts a rich spiritual legacy. Any cultural trip to Delhi without a visit to the temple of Laxmi Narayan is simply incomplete. Fri, 05 Aug 2011 18:11:23 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/laxmi-narayan-temple-of-delhi http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/laxmi-narayan-temple-of-delhi Have you ever seen a garden without flowers? Do you think any such garden, even if it exists, can become so famous that even international tourists come to see it? If you think this whole story is doubtful, then come and visit the Rock Garden of Chandigarh in India. Only one of its kinds in the whole country, the Rock Garden of Chandigarh is a sculpture garden famed for amazing artwork made with the help of industrial and household waste products. The Rock Garden of Chandigarh is an epitome of human creativity, imagination and vision. Chandigarh Rock Garden is simply a unique place in itself, difficult to find anywhere else in the world. The Rock Garden of Chandigarh is also sometimes referred to as Nek Chand’s Rock Garden due to its creator Nek Chand who created it secretly and kept it away from the eyes of the world for many years. When Nek Chand first came to Chandigarh, the city was being established as the first planned city of India. Luckily, Nek Chand got a government job in the public works department around 1951. At that time, the present site of the Rock Garden was being used as the disposal ground for the urban and industrial waste of the city. In around 1957, Nek Chand started working on his dream project. He started picking different types of waste materials such as foundry limekiln and metal wastes from the waste disposal site and started giving them shapes of humans, animals, and other imaginary creatures. He started his secret mission at a place that was part of a forest reserve area and where construction work was not allowed. He continued making hundreds of sculptures from broken ken glass bangles, chinaware, fluorescent tubes, and many other items. He used to visit nearby lakes and rivers and collect rocks with unique, peculiar shapes. He collected large quantities of recyclable materials from the village sites in the city that were demolished to make way for new buildings. Within a few years, Nek Chand had a large collection of rocks, crockery, stones and other waste products. He created hundreds of sculptures by working on weekends, nights, or whenever he had free time to work. Very soon, he built his secret kingdom which had huts, palaces, pavilions and hundreds of sculptures. Fortunately or unfortunately, in 1975, the city authorities got the news about Nek Chand’s kingdom and his creations. By that time, Nek Chand had developed his secret world into a 12-acre complex. When the news spread, hundreds of locals started visiting the site every day to get a glimpse of the unique creation of the unique artist. Initially the city administration was not very much happy about the Nek Chand’s world as it was constructed on the government land. However, it had to give permission to the artist to open his kingdom for the public. The secret world of Nek Chand was given the name Rock Garden and was opened for public on January 24, 1976. Today, Rock Garden has turned into a 40-acre sculpture garden. There are interlinked courtyards in the garden. Thousand of sculptures displayed here are made of discarded materials such as frames, forks, metal wires, porcelain, auto parts, broken bangles and other items. They include different human forms, animal forms such as monkeys, elephants, and a variety of imaginary creatures. A waterfall, a theater, swings, pottery-encrusted concrete figures, and thousands of other sculptures are part of the garden. Dozens of swings hanging from big concrete arches were installed in the garden a few years back. Construction work is still going on under Phase III of the garden with plans to add an aquarium, pavilions for soft rag sculptures, and an open-air theater in the garden. A large number of birds have made the garden their habitat and use the small crannies as their nesting places. Rock Garden is simply an example of how a person can shape life out of the rubbish and what a person can achieve with a clear vision and hard work. Don’t miss a visit to this lovely garden if you ever plan a trip to the city of Chandigarh. Sat, 30 Jul 2011 02:29:18 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/rock-garden-of-chandigarh http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/rock-garden-of-chandigarh India is home to seven Sun Temples, among which the Konark Sun Temple is the most prominent of all. Situated in Orissa state of eastern India, Konark Sun Temple is one of the oldest temples of India and a living example of Orissan architecture. It dates back to the 13th century and was built by King Narasimhadeva I as a mark of victory over Muslim invaders. Konark Sun Temple is dedicated to the Sun God, and is also known as “Black Pagoda”. Situated at a distance of 35 kilometers from the holy city of Puri in Orissa, Konark Sun Temple is a must-see during any east India tour. The Konark Sun Temple derives its name from a combination of two words. “Kon” means corner, and “Ark” means sun, which together implies “The Corner Sun”. The entire structure of the Konark Sun Temple is that of a celestial chariot with twelve giant wheels (representing months of a year) driven by seven horses (only one remains intact). King Narasimhadeva I had built Konark Sun Temple on the bank of river Chandrabhanga. Over the ages, even though the river has dried up and the sea has distanced itself from the temple, you can still hear the roaring waves and mesmerizing beauty of the sun from the temple ruins. According to the legends, King Narasimhadeva I chose this place because of its sanctity, quite apart from its beauty and navigational ease. Samba, son of Lord Krishna, was distressed by leprosy imposed on him by Narada, the divine sage. For twelve years, Samba worshipped The Sun God, and finally the God appeared before him in the form of an idol of Surya in standing position with a lotus in both hands. Samba installed the idol in the temple in his ashram and was cured of the disease. The Konark Sun Temple, although in ruins today, speaks gallantly about its once marvelous architecture. Those interested in archeology can easily pick up stories from the unmatched artistic carvings on the stones. Every stone has a story to tell of the splendor of the bygone era. It took twelve years and 12,000 artisans to create this magnificent masterpiece of the medieval period. Among the ruins, you can figure out the three main sections that constitute the temple complex: the main temple where the deity was worshipped, the gathering hall where the devotees gathered to take a glimpse of the deity, and the dancing hall where the devdasis performed during pujas. The only visible structures of the Konark Sun Temple are the temple entrance and the dancing hall. However, the splendor of the temple complex remains unmatched. The carving on the temple walls were a representation of Hindu mythology and artisan ideas. To catch the sun rays during the day inside the temple, the Sun God was depicted in the form of three images: Brahma (The creator) as the morning sun, Mahashwara (The destroyer) as the noon sun, and Vishnu (The Preserver) as the evening sun. The walls would also be adorned with many beautiful carvings of women dancing in various poses, musicians, warriors, men and women socializing, images of animals and non-humans in various forms. The Konark Temple is also known for its magnificent erotic carvings. The imagination of the artisans should be applauded for the fantastic carvings of the erotic images which signify higher knowledge of human anatomy. All the images have well defined expressions and gestures which shows how minutely the work was done. Tue, 26 Jul 2011 03:00:17 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/konarak-sun-temple http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/konarak-sun-temple Uttarakhand is a hilly state in India known for its immense natural beauty, cool environment, and some prime Hindu religious sites. Dehradun is the capital of Uttarakhand. It’s a charming little city that offers scenic surroundings and lots of interesting attractions for tourists to explore. Buddha Temple is one such place in Dehradun that is visited by hundreds of people every day. This important landmark of Dehradun is famed for its impressive architecture, beautiful interiors, decorations, and appealing surroundings. The wall paintings in Buddha Temple illustrating the life events of Lord Buddha are simply incomparable. The Tibetan community of Dehradun constructed the Buddha Temple as the replica of a Tibetan monastery in 1965. Buddha Temple was built to protect and promote Tibetan culture in India, and lots of renovation and additions were done to the temple building and whole temple complex during later years. The main stupa of the temple, about 220 feet in height, is built in the Japanese architectural style. It is claimed to be the largest reliquary in Asia. The Buddha Temple building has five floors in total, and there are stairs to access each floor. All five floors enshrine statues of Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava, and feature colourful wall paintings that completely mesmerize first-time visitors. After viewing ornate decorations on three floors of the Buddha Temple, you will reach the open viewing platform on the fourth floor of the temple, which offers a magnificent 360-degree view of the entire Dehradun Valley. Another great attraction within the temple complex is the great statue of Buddha. This statue is nearly 103 feet high and was constructed about 10 years ago. It is dedicated to the Dalai Lama, the spiritual guru of Tibetan people. The beautiful garden of the temple features a wide variety of beautiful flowers, and the calm and tranquil environment offers a soothing ambience to visitors. A book shop within the Buddha Temple complex has a good collection of books in the Tibetan language because Tibetan people living in the area purchase books from this shop. About five hundred lamas live and study in the Buddha Temple complex. They are provided with free accommodation, clothing, food, and many other facilities by the Buddha Temple authorities. The shops and temple garden are open for the general public seven days a week. However, the interior of the temple remains open only on Sundays. Don’t forget to remove your shoes before entering the main hall of the Buddha Temple. You can easily reach Buddha Temple from any part of Dehradun city. You just need to first get to the Inter State Bus Terminus (ISBT) and then drive towards Clement Town on Delhi-Saharanpur Road. Moving about 4 km from ISBT, you reach the turn for Subhash Nagar-Clement Town. Take the left turn and continue until you reach T-point near the Air Force building. From here, the temple lies nearly 1 km towards your right side. You’ll be able to see the spire of the temple from a distance. Thu, 21 Jul 2011 19:43:03 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/buddha-temple-dehradun http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/buddha-temple-dehradun It is an irony that Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated by his own countrymen on January 30, 1948, just a year after India’s independence. Raj Ghat is the samadhi (cremation site) of Mahatma Gandhi, where he was cremated on January 31, 1948. His ashes were buried at Raj Ghat, and the memorial was developed during the later years. The main Gandhi memorial at Raj Ghat is set amid beautiful green lawns. The design of the memorial was prepared by Vanu G. Bhuta, a renowned architect of his time; and the Gandhi memorial has won many prizes in India for reflecting the simplicity of the life of Mahatma Gandhi and many other features usually seen in the small ashrams of Gandhi. The Gandhi memorial is made up of a square-shaped platform featuring black marbles. A stone pathway all around the platform is used by the visitors to circumambulate the samadhi of the Mahatma. The platform also features the epitaph “Hey Ram” inscribed in Hindi—which were the last words spoken by Mahatma before collapsing in the arms of his followers due to bullet wounds. An eternal flame burns at the site signifying the eternity of the principles of this great leader. The spiritual ambience of Raj Ghat touches the hearts of many visitors. Many changes were done at the Gandhi memorial site during later years. The last renovation work at Raj Ghat was completed around 2007 to beautify the whole area. The Gandhi memorial lies within a landscaped garden featuring fountains and a variety of tall trees. The whole area is very peaceful and tranquil. Located nearby Raj Ghat is the Gandhi Memorial Museum that houses a collection of different items and photographs related to the life of Gandhi and the freedom struggle of India. Raj Ghat is visited by thousands of visitors every day. Almost every important political leader on state visit to India also visits Raj Ghat to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi. You can visit Raj Ghat every day of the week. Special prayer sessions are held on the occasions of Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday (October 2) and the anniversary of his death (March 30). Prayers are also offered every Friday. Before entering the main Gandhi memorial site, every visitor has to remove their shoes at a prescribed place. Tue, 12 Jul 2011 20:36:55 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/raj-ghat-delhi http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/raj-ghat-delhi A perfect example of the rich heritage and culture of Delhi—the Old Fort, known locally as Purana Qila— stands elegantly near Pragati Maidan in Delhi. This is a majestic structure that survived the voyages of time, and draws the attention of tourists with its rugged beauty. Delhi’s Old Fort served as the seat of administration for a number of Delhi emperors. The legendary king, Prithviraj Chauhan, is also said to have ruled the city of Delhi from this place. The foundation stone of Delhi’s Old fort was laid by Mughal Emperor Humayun in 1533. The main purpose of constructing this Indian fort was to protect the city from enemy attacks. In 1540, Sher Shah Suri, an Afghan Emperor, defeated Humayun and captured the throne of Delhi, thus bringing the Old Fort under his control. He added many impressive structures in the fort and renamed it Shergarh Fort, literary meaning the “Adobe of Tiger”. Sher Shah died in 1545, and then the fort came under the control of Islam Shah. Humayun recaptured the throne of Delhi and the fort in 1555. However, his reign could not last long as he died in an accident within Delhi’s Old Fort complex in 1556. The recent excavation work done within the Old Fort complex revealed many items dating from the Mahabharata period. The relics and artifacts found included polished wares, coins, terracotta figurines and seals. The findings confirmed the fact (though only to some extent) that the Old Fort in Delhi was built on the site called Indraprastha during the Mahabharata era that served as the capital of Pandavas. Delhi’s Old Fort is a fine example of the blending of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. The walls of the Old Fort in Delhi are as high as 18 meters at a number of points. These walls have holes made in attractive patterns that serve as the nesting places for birds. Earlier, the Old Fort had three massive gateways named: Humayun Darwaza, Talaqi Darwaza and Bara Darwaza. However, Bara Darwaza is the only gateway that remains open for visitors now. One of the most important buildings within Delhi’s Old Fort is the Kulna Mosque that is considered an architectural masterpiece. The arched openings in the inner west wall of the mosque look beautiful with white and black marble. The central section features white marble and red sandstone. An inscription on one of the marble slabs of the mosque means: “As long as there are people on this earth, may this edifice be frequented and people be cheerful and happy in it”. Another notable structure is the Sher Mandal: a double-storey tower with octagonal shape. This tower is made of red sandstone and marble, and has an octagonal chhatri at the top. Every evening, a Sound and Light Show is held at Old Fort focusing on five thousand years of Delhi history. This is a great show for visitors to get acquainted with the rich culture and heritage of the whole country, and especially of Delhi. Thu, 07 Jul 2011 01:29:21 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/old-fort-delhi http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/old-fort-delhi India is a land of rich culture and heritage, visible in the form of folk arts and crafts, regional dance and music, colourful paintings, sculptures, and much more. In India, lots of fairs and events are organized regularly to exhibit regional art and craft traditions to the general public as well as to visitors from other countries. Surajkund Crafts Mela (fair) is one such event that gives you a chance to get acquainted with colourful arts, crafts and folk traditions prevalent in different regions of India. Surajkund Crafts Fair is organized every year at Surajkund in Haryana from February 1 to 15. The fair is organized by the Haryana Tourism department in collaboration with India’s Ministry of Tourism. The Crafts Fair of Surajkund is completely unique, and talented artists, craftspeople, weavers, painters, and sculptors arrive from different regions to exhibit their skills in one or the other art. Even artists from other countries have now started taking part in the interesting and bright Surajkund Crafts Fair. Every year, the theme of the Surajkund Fair is selected to focus on some particular state of India, as well as some specific craft. As you enter the fair ground, a bustling village displaying the interesting customs and traditions of India welcomes you. Different uneven paths take you to innumerable stalls filled with exquisite paintings, textiles, pottery items, stoneworks, and much more. As you start exploring the stalls, you can find hundreds of colourful handicrafts and paintings ready to catch your eye. If one stall showcases the intricacies of Kalamkari art (with its hairline fineness of lines), another stall exhibits different varieties of wood and craft items, such as rosewood carvings of south India, Chikri woodcraft from Kashmir, and cane craft from West Bengal, to name a few. As you move from one pavilion to another, you get a chance to see Kolhapuri footwear, Ragamala paintings, Madhubani art, handmade bags, home décor items, Indian toys, batik paintings, silk fabric, Mithila paintings, and hundreds of other art and craft items of India that you would never have seen before. Surajkund Crafts Fair is also a perfect place for dance lovers. Folk dances and musical events are organized every day at the fair site. Stages at the ground are set for folk dances and musicians coming from almost every state of India. Artists wearing their regional dress create such an atmosphere that visitors leave spellbound. Apart from the music and dance events, puppet shows and snake charmers are also there to entertain you for the whole day in the fair. For visitors interested in a culinary experience, a wide array of options is available at the Surajkund Crafts Fair. You will find delicacies from almost every region of India. Food stalls offer tasty snacks from spicy north Indian cuisines, south Indian masala-dosa and sambhar-vada, and lots of other varieties are at your service anytime of the day. Tue, 28 Jun 2011 20:51:34 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/surajkund-crafts-fair-haryana http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/surajkund-crafts-fair-haryana Vagator beach in Goa is ideal for those who prefer a tranquil beach holiday. A stretch of pure white sand dotted with black rocks and swaying coconut and palm trees awaits tourists of Goa’s Vagator Beach. Though not as famous as its illustrious neighbours, the Calangute beach and the Anjuna beach, Vagator Beach offers a perfect idyllic getaway. The 500-year-old Chapora Fort, and two fresh water springs near the shore, form a picturesque backdrop to this Goan beach resort.   Goa’s Vagator beach lies on the northern side of Bardez Taluka, Goa. This Goan beach resort is made up of two main beaches, separated by a seaside headland. The beaches are North Vagator beach (Big Vagator) and Ozran beach (Little Vagator). Backed by a steep wall of laterite, Ozran beach is accessible through a footpath that starts at the end of the lane off the main Chapora-Anjuna road. Vagator beach is home to a number of makeshift cafes which greatly appeal to budget travellers. The fact that Little Vagator beach is frequented by mainly Israeli and British tourists is evident from shop signs and restaurant menus in Hebrew and English; and the seaside headland sports a number of stalls selling trinkets, clothes, soft drinks and snacks.    Goa's Chapora Fort offers a magnificent view of the adjoining coastline, and at present, only the ramparts of this Portuguese fort exist. Chapora Fort was originally built by Adil Shah of Bijapur. It was again rebuilt by Goa's viceroy (the Count of Ericia) to guard the entrance to the Chapora River, and the strenuous climb up the hill is worthwhile for the stunning views this enchanting fort provides.   Trying out various Goan delicacies, such as the Bebinca (which is made of tender coconuts), is a favourite pastime among tourists. Other activities include swimming and water sports in the North Vagator beach. The necessary swimming gear is available for rent from local shacks near the beach, and jet skiing, ringo riding, parasailing and windsurfing are the other major water sports.   There are two fresh water springs in Vagator. The North Vagator Spring is tucked at the foot of the hill past the rocks, and if you follow this spring, it will take you all the way to the fishing jetty at Chapora village. On the other hand, the spring in Orzan is a bit difficult to locate, and it is advisable to ask for directions.   Vagator’s Chapora village is decked with tiny cottages with pretty gardens, ramshackle farmhouses and picturesque Portuguese bungalows. You are sure to get a hands-on experience of the local way of life at Chapora village in Vagator. You can watch the fish being unloaded from the trawlers at the Chapora fishing jetty, which is ideal for angling. Also, a number of boat operators arrange dolphin-spotting cruises from this jetty. Wed, 04 May 2011 03:29:48 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/vagator-beach http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/vagator-beach India Gate, popularly known as the All India War Memorial, is the national monument of India. It is a 41-m high gateway made of red buff stone, and is located at Rajpath in New Delhi. This impressive monument, designed and planned by Edwin Lutyens, was completed in 1921, and Lutyens also designed the layout of New Delhi, which now encompasses all the major buildings of central government. India Gate is of great historical importance for India. It was constructed in memory of the 90,000 soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the British Army during World War I and the third Anglo-Afghan War. The names of those soldiers are engraved on the massive All India War Memorial. The foundation stone of India Gate was laid by the Duke of Cannaught, and Lord Irwin (the then Viceroy of India) dedicated it to the nation. India Gate lies at Rajpath, which leads to the President House. It stands at a point from where a number of roads spread out, and is located nearly a mile from Cannaught Place. Rashtrapati Bhawan (President House), North Block, South Block, and Parliament House are some of the important government buildings located near India Gate. Below the arch of India Gate lies another memorial dedicated to Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives for India after independence. It features an inverted rifle with a soldier’s helmet on top, and the words “Amar Jawan” are inscribed in Hindi on the four faces of this monument, with the eternal flame of immortal warrior—“Amar Jawan Jyoti”—burning there since 1971. On occasions of important state functions, such as Independence Day and Republic day, the Prime Minister of India visits the All India War Memorial to pay homage to soldiers who offered their supreme sacrifice for India. The area around India Gate serves as a favourite relaxation spot for the locals who throng to the gardens around India Gate during the evening time when the All India War Memorial is lit up. The atmosphere appears like a carnival during the evenings in summers, and numerous vendors sell a wide variety of food items including fruit salad, bhelpuri, pakodas, ice cream, tea, soft drinks, etc. You can also enjoy the performance of monkeys on the road as well as the snake charmers around India Gate. The most special event to watch at India Gate is the Republic Day parade that is held on 26th of January every year. This all-inclusive Republic Day parade includes a display of the Indian armed forces of India as well as the rich culture of different regions of the country. People love to see marching soldiers, missiles, tanks, as well as the folk dances performed by artists from different states. However, you need to purchase a special pass to watch the Republic Day parade at India Gate, which is available at most tourist offices. Fri, 29 Apr 2011 04:38:35 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/india-gate http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/india-gate If you want to watch an Indian tiger living in its natural surroundings, then Ranthambore National Park in India is the best place to visit. You’ll hardly find any other tiger reserve in India that offers as much chance of spotting a tiger as Ranthambore Park. Tigers in this park can be watched hunting in the broad daylight, and Ranthambore National Park is absolute heaven for the wildlife photographer and wildlife enthusiast. Ranthambore National Park lies about 15 km west of the Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan, close to the “Golden Triangle” of Delhi-Agra-Jaipur, and covers an area of around 1,330 sq. km. This region was mostly ruled by the Rajput rulers, and served as the hunting grounds of the royal family of Jaipur. It was given the status of a tiger sanctuary after independence. In 1972, the area was declared a national park and also became one of the few national parks in India where Project Tiger was implemented. The landscape of Ranthambore National Park is very charming, and a number of rivers flowing through the park have been turned into beautiful lakes. The best way to explore the Ranthambore National Park Safari is in a six-seat jeep. A seat on the jeep must be booked at the Project Tiger office in Sawai Madhopur, and the fee is around Rs. 1200. This includes the guide and the jeep entrance fee, but you will need to pay an individual park entry fee. A cheaper option to spot the Ranthambore tigers is in the twenty-seat truck, known locally as “canter”. However, it is noisy and less enjoyable than the jeep. Canters and jeeps enter the Indian tiger park twice a day at around the same time, and they remain within the park for about three hours. The vehicle takes you within the wilds of Ranthambore Park where you can watch tigers relaxing or hunting during the day. The tigers usually remain unperturbed by the human presence. Panthers, striped hyenas, langurs, jungle cats, black bucks, boars, civets, desert cats, and Indian foxes are the other wild animals that you might spot in Rajasthan's Ranthambore Park. The reptile species present here include the snub-nosed marsh crocodiles, cobras, snakes, monitor lizards, pythons, turtles, and vipers. For birdlife enthusiasts, a wide variety of bird species are available in the park, such as peacock, crested serpent eagle, painted stork, graylag goose, hornbills, owl, dove, sandpipers, darters, egrets, flamingos, and wood shrikes. More than 250 bird species can be spotted in the Ranthambore National Park, and the best locations are Malik Talao, Padam Talao, and Jhalra. Apart from the exciting wildlife in Ranthambore Park, you can explore many interesting places in and around the park; the most popular being Ranthambore Fort, Jogi Mahal, Bakaula, Kachida Valley, Lakarda, Anantpura, Raj Bagh Ruins, Padam Talao, Rajbagh Talao, and Malik Talao. There are many ancient Rajput palaces within the area, and the most prominent one is Chauhan Fort that appears rising above the forest canopy, dating from the 10th century. Sat, 16 Apr 2011 01:09:14 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/ranthambore-national-park http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/ranthambore-national-park The northern part of India is not a region where you would normally the see grand, ancient temples that you do in Southern India. However, the Akshardham Temple in Delhi is such a grand and massive temple complex that only a few temples in India can match its magnificence and splendour. The Akshardham Temple is the biggest Hindu temple complex of Delhi, also referred to as Swaminarayan Akshardham; and it is the best place to experience the traditional culture, spirituality, heritage and architecture of India all in one place. The Akshardham Temple complex is located near the Commonwealth Games Village at the bank of Yamuna River, and is visited by thousands of locals as well international tourists every day. The Akshardham Temple in Delhi was the vision of Pramukh Swammi Maharaaj, the head of BAPS Sanstha. The construction work for the temple was started in the year 2000, although the site of the temple was not an ideal location due to being very close to the riverbank. After some ingenious building techniques and the innovative use of materials, the construction work of Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple was completed in November 2005. Opened to the public on 6 November 2005, nearly 25,000 guests were present at Akshardham Temple, including the President and Prime Minister of India. India's Akshardham Temple is undoubtedly an architectural marvel. The central hall of the complex is about 110 m long, 96 m wide and 43 m high. Beautiful figures of deities, animals, dancers, etc., are carved on every wall of the monument. Different architectural styles popular in different parts of the country have been used in the design of the structure. Rajasthani pink sandstone was extensively used in the construction, and it is amazing to see that no steel or concrete was used in the building. Ornately carved pillars, all 234 of them, and nine domes, are the main features of the central hall. Nearly 20,000 statues and figures or Hindu saints and acharayas are present within the central hall. The Hall of Values, or Sahajanand Pradarshan, is the hall where you can see numerous realistic robotics and dioramas. These exhibits portray the life events of Swaminarayan and the message of peace and humanity given by him. Use of robotics, light, sound effect, and the 18th-century atmosphere of the hall, makes it a completely unique experience for the visitors. Another important section of the Akshardham Temple is the Neelkanth Kalyan Yatra, or the theatre with a screen measuring 85 feet x 65 feet. It is a unique section where visitors are shown the film “Neelkanth Yatra,” especially produced for the Akshardham Temple. The film focuses on the 7-year long journey of Swaminarayan during his teenage years when he visited different regions of India. The most interesting section to enjoy within the Akshardham Temple is the Sanskriti Vihar, or boat ride in an artificial river. During this boat ride, visitors get a chance to know the 10,000-year-old history of India in just 12 minutes. Sat, 09 Apr 2011 01:52:47 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/akshardham-temple http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/akshardham-temple Nestled in the Garhwal Hills of Uttarakhand in India lies the little charming hill station of Mussoorie, also popularly referred to as the “Queen of Hill Stations”. Kempty Falls is undoubtedly the most famous attraction of Mussoorie. This gorgeous site is simply the place that nobody should miss during their trip to Mussoorie. The exact location of Kempty Falls is nearly 15 km from the main Mussoorie market, and a well sealed road takes you near the falls to a hilly trail, from which you can reach the site of Kempty Falls. High mountain ranges surround this spot at an altitude of about 4,500 feet. Mussoorie is blessed with immense natural beauty and pleasant climate, and is visited by hordes of tourists during the summer months of May and June. The town with its cool, pleasant climate offers perfect respite to visitors from the scorching heat of the plains during the summer. Mussoorie lies nearly 35 km from Dehradun, and also offers magnificent views of the Himalayan peaks, the Shivalik ranges, and the Doon valley. As you reach near to the Kempty Falls, you can see a magnificent view of the water cascading down from a height of nearly 40 feet, and splitting into a number of streams before striking the rocks above the ground. The sight of the water falling from this height and doing somersaults is an incredible experience for the first-time visitors. As you move towards the flow of the stream, you are able to see rocky coral naturally created by the streams, and during the peak tourist season in the summer, this spot remains heavily crowded with hundreds of tourists coming to enjoy the dip in the water pool or getting wet under the streams. No visit to this place is complete without bathing under the cascading falls. Fishing can be enjoyed after getting a permit from the authorities, and you can find a good number of trout in the pool. John Mekinan developed the site of Kempty Falls into a tourist spot in the mid-19th century. The name “Kempty” was derived from the phrase “Camp tea,” as it was a favorite spot among the British officers to organize tea parties. Moving nearly 12 km downhill from the Kempty Fall, you reach the bank of Yamuna River, where the water of the falls merges. Apart from Kempty Falls, you can also enjoy many other interesting tourist places in Mussoorie. The mall is the most lively and crowded place in the town, always bustling with tourist activities. Lal Tibba is the highest point of Mussoorie and offers a bird’s eye view of the whole region, and you can enjoy sightseeing with the help of a telescope installed on a tower in Lal Tibba. Company Gardens and Gun Hill comprise other major attractions of Mussoorie. Fri, 01 Apr 2011 03:29:17 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/kempty-falls http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/kempty-falls Valley of Flowers, as intoxicating as the name suggests, is a UNESCO world heritage site located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand in India. It is an exceptionally beautiful valley situated at high altitudes in the Himalayas. Famed for its exceptional charm and vast meadows filled with hundreds of varieties of flowering plants, this clutch of land on the upper region of Bhyundar Ganga is also a national park. The Valley of Flowers National Park is spread in an area of 87.5 sq km, and received national park status in 1982.   You can reach the Valley of Flowers National Park from Govindghat near Joshimath, and if you are coming from Rishikesh, you will pass through some important towns before getting to Govindghat. Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Karnprayag, Chamoli, and Joshimath are some of these main towns en route to Govindghat from Rishikesh. After you reach Govindghat, you cross the Alaknanda River and start the journey on a small trek along Bhyundar Ganga that leads to Ghangharia, about 13 km from Govindghat, and the Valley lies just 3 km from Ghangharia.   The Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand is known for nearly 300 species of naturally blooming wild flowers, many of which have medicinal properties. During the months of July and August, the Valley appears to be splashed with colour when hundreds of varieties of flowers bloom to their full extent, and the shades of colour change every 15–20 days. By the end of September, the Valley of Flowers starts experiencing change in weather conditions. As autumn comes to the end and snowfall starts in the area, the vegetation growth slows down and then stops completely for the next six months. From mid March to mid April, hundreds of varieties of plants start growing again, and the Valley of Flowers, in addition to flowering plants, also serves as the home of different species of animals and insects. Some of these include butterfly, musk dear, and snow leopard. You can also see Himalayan bear in the Valley region.  Valley of Flowers National Park, a wonderful spot of nature, is among the core zones of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. Frank S. Smythe and R. L. Holdsworth are believed to be the first to have reached this valley. They were British mountaineers who reached here by chance in 1931 after returning from Mount Kamet. Frank S. Smythe was so enthralled with the exquisiteness of this region that he revisited the Valley of Flowers alley later in 1937. He also wrote a book about this valley, which was published one year later in 1938, entitled “Valley of Flowers”.   The Valley of Flower lies at an altitude ranging from 3,200 m to 6,675 m, and Alaknanda, Laxman Ganga and Pushpavati are the main rivers of this region. River Pushpavati, originating from Tipra Glacier, flows through the Valley. Gauri parvat (6,590 m), Rataban (6,126 m), Kuntkhal (4,430 m), Saptsring (5,030 m), and Nilgiri Parvat (6,479 m), surround the Valley from different sides.  Valley of Flowers also finds a place in Hindu mythological stories. Local people believe that fairies inhibit this valley and come out of their shelters in the night-time. The Valley of Flowers National Park is easy to access and thus visited by large number of tourists, botanists and environmentalists every year. However, the visitors also have to follow some rules while trekking in the Valley region, such as, nobody is allowed to do night camping within the Valley area. Collecting or destroying plant and animal specimens, live or dead, is also strictly prohibited in the Valley region. Wed, 23 Mar 2011 03:31:23 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/valley-of-flowers http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/valley-of-flowers If you want to see the tallest monumental structure in India, you’ll have to visit Delhi: the capital of India. Qutub Minar, a wonderful structure ranked as the tallest stone tower of India, is an attractive and popular attraction of Delhi. Other towers in the world that give competition to Qutub Minar are the Great Pagoda of Pekin and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Qutub Minar dates from late 12th century, and this red sandstone tower is a living example of the rich architectural skills of ancient India. When admiring the Qutub Minar, the only question that usually comes to mind is: “Why was this tall monument built?” Most historians believe that the construction of Qutub Minar was started by Qutub-ud-Din Aibak, who belonged to the Slave dynasty. It was meant to be used by the mu’azzin to give prayer calls. There are also some references that suggest the Qutub Minar was started by Prithviraj Chauhan or Vigraharaja. However, it is certain that construction was completed during the period of Qutub-ud-din and Iltumish in early 13th century, suggested by a number of inscriptions present on the minar. The first storey of the tower was completed during Aibak's period. Three storeys were later added by Shams-ud-Din Iltumish, the successor of Aibak. All these storeys featured surrounding balconies and impressive honeycomb designs. The Qutub Minar was designed in such a way that it narrows down from bottom to top, giving strength to the structure. The tower is 72.5 m (237 feet) high, and the diameter is 14.32 m at base, and 2.75 m at the top. In earlier days, people were allowed to go to the top of the Qutub Minar using the 378 stairs inside, and the top of the Qutub Minar offers a bird’s eye view of Delhi. The Khilji and Tughlaq kings also used this minar to watch the activities of invaders to Delhi, specially the Mongols. A number of earthquakes damaged Qutub Minar to some extent. However, it was restored again each time by the reigning rulers of Delhi, including Firoz Shah and Sikandar Lodhi. Presently, the structure is well maintained and looked after by the authorities. You can find a number of monuments within the Qutub Minar complex. The gateway dates from 1310 AD, and other important structures include the Alai Darwaza, the Alai Minar, the Iron Pillar, and Quwat-ul-Islam Mosque. The tombs of Iltumish, Ala-ud-din Khilji and Imam Zamin are also present in this area. Quwat-ul-Islam Mosque, dating back to 1198 AD, lies in the northeast of Qutub Minar. It was constructed by Qutub-ud-Din Aibak and is the oldest existing mosque in Delhi constructed by Delhi sultans. It features a rectangular courtyard, and cloisters with carved columns enclose the courtyard. Remains of ancient Hindu and Jain temples can be seen here, and some inscriptions suggest that these temples were destroyed by Aibak. Additions to this mosque were done during the period of Shams-ud-din Iltumish during early 13th century, and later by Ala-ud-din Khilji. An interesting structure in the courtyard is the Iron Pillar with an inscription in the Brahmi script. This inscription dates from 4th century and tells that the pillar was erected as a symbol of Lord Vishnu in memory of King Chandra. The southern gate of the Quwat-ul-Islam Mosque is known as Alai Darwaza. It dates from 1311 AD and was built by Ala-ud-din Khilji. Application of Islamic architectural styles can be seen in this structure. The Iltumish tomb is also present in the complex and consists of red sandstone with inscriptions. Geometrical patterns can be found at the entrance and on the tomb. Alai Minar lies towards the north of Qutub Minar. The work on this minar was started by Ala-ud-din Khilji, who wanted to make it double the size of Qutub Minar. However, only the first storey of the minar could be completed, to a height of 25 m, as Ala-ud-din died during the construction. Wed, 02 Mar 2011 17:22:23 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/qutub-minar http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/qutub-minar The ancient Hindu epic “The Mahabharata,” tells of a family of five brothers known as the Pandavas who were accused of killing their cousins during the Kurukshetra war. The brothers sought out Lord Shiva to pardon them of this accusation, but Shiva was convinced of their guilt, took the form of a bull, and went into hiding. Shiva re-emerged in five different locations, where the hands, hump, head, stomach, and hair of his bull-body were found. The Pandavas built a Shiva temple, or “Panch Kedar,” at each of these places. I trekked to the temple built in reverence to where the bull's hands are said to have materialized. This is the highest temple in the world, called Tungnath (“the lord of the peaks”). Seated in the Tungnath mountain range of the Indian Himalayas, in the province of Uttarakhand, the Tungnath temple sits at an impressive 3,680 m above sea level, and is believed to be over 1,000 years old. Hindu mythology was not particularly on my mind when I signed up for a trek with Red Chilli Adventure; and I simply needed some respite from the throngs of crowds flooding the small town of Rishikesh for the Kuma Mela (aka “Kumbh Mela”: India's largest spiritual pilgrimage). Yet as soon as I hastily stepped off the bus after an intrepid and winding 8-hour drive through the mountains to our departure point, Sari village; I was awestruck with the divine landscape before me. After a short yet steep hike, perfect for getting the feeling back into your legs after the long drive, we reached Lake Deorital, our first camp site. Our small trekking group was comprised of tourists from all over the world, and we got to know each other over a delicious pasta meal in the mess tent as the sun set over the mountains, reflecting a crimson sky into the lake. Day two of the four-day trek was the most challenging. Greeted at dusk by a clear sky and a breathtaking view of the snow-covered mountains, we commenced the 7-hour hike. Weaving through rhododendron trees in full bloom—which made the hills look as though they were on fire—we eventually came to Chopta camp, home for two nights. Day three was the apex of the trip: the hike to Tungnath temple and the top of the Tungnath mountain range called Chandrashila ("moon rock"). The Chandrashila summit is approximately 2 km above the Tungnath temple, stands 4,000 meters above sea level, and is replete with ancient lore of its own. One popular legend states that Chandra, the moon-god, spent time on this summit in atonement: a most spectacular jail-cell! From Chopta camp to Tungnath temple is a 5 km hike along a well-maintained and very wide footpath, with much appreciated benches and rest spots along the way! Once at Tungnath temple, some people may feel slight effects of the altitude, such as difficulty catching ones breath. It is completely safe however, and one of our fellow trekkers, feeling slightly affected, adjusted quickly with some rest, juice, and a snack (all provided by the company). The last 2 km hike to the summit is a mental and physical challenge. There is a small trail, but many hikers find their own route, and it can be dizzying to look down: but the effort and bravery is worth every bead of sweat. Once you are sitting on the summit, gazing out across the formidable mountain-scape, which yields a perfect view of India's highest peak (Nanda Devi, 7,816 m above sea-level), your heart pounding and body aching in effort—it becomes abundantly clear why, for millennia, this place is believed to be home to the gods. Tue, 22 Feb 2011 00:44:44 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/worlds-highest-temple-tungnath http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/worlds-highest-temple-tungnath Whether you want to explore a land of mythological stories or enjoy an adventure trip in India, Gangotri is the perfect place to visit. Gangotri, the site from where the holy river Ganga originates, is a popular spot among pilgrims and nature lovers alike. It is the place where you can enjoy lovely sights of daunting rivers as well as peek into Hindu mythology. Gangotri also offers you a chance to experience the spiritual feel of India. The small town of Gangotri is located about 100 km (62 miles) from Uttarkashi in the charming Garhwal hills of Uttarakhand. The town lies at an altitude of about 3,048 m (10,000 feet) above sea level, and close to the right bank of the Ganga river in this charming town lies the Gangotri Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga. The present structure of the temple dates from the 18th century and was constructed by Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa. Standing at about 6.1 m (20 feet) high, thousands of devotees visit the sacred Gangotri Temple in the months of May to October/ November when Gangotri Temple remains open for the people. Starting from December, Gangotri receives heavy snowfall and the Gangotri Temple is closed for the general public until May. Gangotri is associated with a number of mythological stories narrated in Hindu religious books. The most famous story is about the penance of King Bhagirath, who wished to bring Goddess Ganga to earth from heaven. The purpose was to help the souls of his ancestors get liberation from the unrest they were experiencing after their deaths. Goddess Ganga agreed to come on earth, and while she was descending with her full force from heaven, Lord Shiva captured her in his locks to save earth from being devastated with her force. He then released the river in the form of a little stream. There is a holy stone named Bhagirath Shila near the Gangotri Temple that is believed to be the very spot where Bhagirath did his penance. This legend explains why Ganga, before merging with the river Alaknanda in Devprayag, is known by the name “Bhagirathi”. Another legend related to this spot is about Pandavas who performed a “Yagya” at this place to atone the deaths caused by them during war of Mahabharata. A narrow trek near the Gangotri Temple leads to Gaumukh and Gangotri glacier. Gaumukh, the snout of the glacier, lies about 20 km (12.5 miles) from Gangotri and is the source of the river Bhagirathi. As you walk about 2 km, you come across the forest check post where you need to deposit a refundable fee for your journey. Moving ahead, about 7 km (4.3 miles) from Gangotri, you reach Chirbasa where you can enjoy a cup of tea in a tea stall before proceeding on your journey. The path continues to high mountain desert where you might come across falling pieces of rocks and stones from above, thus demanding great attention while moving ahead. The path at some points is very narrow and dangerous. After you cross a stream, you get the first glimpse of Gaumukh as well as the glacier, nearly 22 km (13.6 miles) long. About 5 km (3.1 miles) from Chirbasa is the Bhojbasa: a small hamlet that offers basic accommodation facilities for night stay. The Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) has set up a tourist lodge here that offers dormitory rooms and tent facilities, but the subfreezing temperature means you need to be well equipped with woolen and warm clothes. From Bhojbasa, the ice cave Gaumukh, from which the river emerges with great force, lies about 5 km (3.1 miles) away. Massive pieces of ice fall into the gushing water at the mouth of the cave, and many people have died under the falling ice in the past, so it’s better to be careful while in this area. However, watching the pilgrims taking a holy dip in the freezing water of the river is the most interesting sight at Gaumukh. Fri, 18 Feb 2011 02:43:28 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/gangotri http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/gangotri Kanyakumari, or Cape Comorin, as it was formerly known, is a quaint little town in the southernmost tip of the Indian sub-continent. The confluence of the three seas—the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean at Kanyakumari—make it a unique geographic location. The Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the gigantic Thiruvalluvar statue located on two rocky islets just off the shore are the major tourist spots in Kanyakumari. Kanyakumari has been named after the virgin goddess, Kumari Amman. Legend has it that Lord Shiva did not turn up at his wedding with Kanya Devi, an avatar of Parvati. The grains kept for the wedding feast are supposed to have turned into stones over the years, and locals even believe that the small ricelike stones on the shore are indeed grains from this cancelled wedding. A temple dedicated to this virgin goddess is located on the sea shore, and while visiting this temple, you should keep in mind that males can enter the premises only with bare torsos as a mark of respect to the deity. The Thiruvalluvar statue, situated on a rocky islet off the shore, is one of the biggest statues in Asia. Dedicated to the Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar, the 133- foot statue has been carved out of many rocks and then joined together, and its height corresponds to the 133 chapters of Thiruvalluvar’s epic: Thirukkural. A breathtaking view awaits the visitors of this islet. Another popular location for pilgrims and tourists alike is the Vivekananda Rock. It is believed that Swami Vivekananda meditated on this rock for three days. Situated around 100 metres from the sea shore, this rock has two Mandaps (or halls) along with a tall statue of Swami Vivekananda. While one Mandap is dedicated to Swami Vivekananda, the second one contains a rock with a foot-shaped carving. According to Hindu mythology, this is the footprint of the virgin goddess. The adjoining meditation room allows visitors to meditate. While at Kanyakumari, be sure to visit the Church of Our Lady of Ransom, dedicated to Mother Mary. This 100-year-old church is situated on the shores of the Bay of Bengal. Built in Gothic style, this church has three spires, stained-glass windowpanes and a 153-foot-high Central Tower, and the highlight is a cross made of pure gold atop the Central Tower. A colourful 10-day carnival is held every year in the second week of December. Another spot on the must-see list is The Gandhi Memorial, dedicated to the Father of the Nation. This memorial is built on the spot where Gandhiji’s ashes were kept for public viewing before being immersed in the sea. Specially engineered, the spot where Gandhiji’s ashes were kept will receive Sun’s rays through a hole in the roof only on his birthday, October 2nd every year. Tue, 15 Feb 2011 01:39:09 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/thiruvalluvar-statue http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/thiruvalluvar-statue In a country sometimes synonymous with chaos and disorder, it might seem peculiar that Kerala, India is the birthplace of the highly stylized and precise art form known as Kathakali Dance. Originating during the 17th century, Kerala's Kathakali is a dance-drama that recounts various Hindu themes and mythologies, particularly the epics of Ramayana and the Mahabharata. There are many studios you can visit to enjoy a Kathakali show, but an excellent one is the Kerala Kathakali Centre in Fort Cochin. Here you can enjoy the tradition in an intimate setting and take in the entire process from costumes and makeup preparation, an introduction to the art form, right through to the final performance. After sunset the Kathakali show preparation begins, so be sure to come early so that you can take it all in. As is tradition, dancers assemble on stage about an hour or so before the show to begin makeup application. The elaborate and colourful makeup donned is carefully self applied. The decoration doesn't stop there though, as many of the characters makeup also involves applying pieces of paper that are cut on the spot and glued to the individuals face, this requires a helping hand. The dancers even go to the extreme of changing their eye colour to be red, done by putting a little bit of chundappoo herb into their lower lids. Following the completion of makeup the dancers scurry backstage to finish their costumes with huge skirts, head-dresses and other embellishments. In preparation for the Kathakali dance the stage is set and auditorium prepared with flowers and Kalamezhuthu art is drawn on the floor. The percussionists and vocalist enter the stage and a brief introduction to the history of Kathakali dance is given, as well as some background on the meaning behind the highly extensive facial movements and hand gestures (maduras) the dancers use to convey the story. The legend is narrated by the vocalist, accompanied by cymbols and three types of drums - maddalam, edakka and cena. Now although you may not understand the what is being said, or the meaning behind the intricate gestures, fear not, as they do provide a show guide that outlines the basis of the acts and meaning of each particular show. Thu, 10 Feb 2011 03:58:50 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/kathakali http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/kathakali A symbol of India’s power, the Red Fort locally known as Lal Qila, is the largest monument of Old Delhi. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates from 17th century and was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. This fort complex lies near the bank of Yamuna and was constructed within the walled city of Old Delhi. Adjacent to its wall on the northeastern side lies the Salimgarh Fort dating from mid-16th century. The Red Fort was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a palace and political center of his new capital Shahjahanabad that was founded as the seventh city in Delhi. The emperor shifted his capital to Shahjahanabad from Agra. The construction work for the fort started in 1638 and took almost 10 years to be completed in 1648. Being the home of the royal family, it was originally called ‘Qila-i-Mubarak’ meaning the blessed fort. It was an important center in the medieval Shahjahanabad city and a symbol of power and superb architectural skills. Red Fort is a perfect example of the great skills of Indian art and architecture. The grand monument showcases the mixture of rich Persian and Indian art forms. The planning and layout of the fort describes the imagination and creativity of the Mughal Empire. The perimeter of the walls of this grand monument are around 2.41 km. The height of the walls varies from 33.5 meter to 18 meter at different sides. A number of additions were done to this fort during the rule of later Mughal kings. Tourists enter the fort from the Lahori Gate. The path leads to Chatta Chowk, a long market street featuring numerous shops with jewelry and crafts items. The open space of Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audiences) is the place that was reserved for the emperor to meet his officials and general public and listen the complaints of the public. In earlier days, it featured gold-painted columns and a gold silver railing that separated the emperor’s throne from the general public. Presently, this marble-clad area features pillars with floral carvings. The precious stones of this hall were looted in 1857 after the mutiny. Moti Masjid or the Pearl Mosque was constructed in 1659 by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. This three-domed mosque was the private mosque for the emperor. Presently, this mosque is closed for the general public. Diwan-i-Khas or the Hall of Special People was the section reserved for the private meetings of the emperor. Towards the north of the Pearl Mosque lies the large Hayat Baksh Bagh or ‘Life-Bestowing Garden’. It features two water channels and some pavilions. One of the pavilions was constructed by the last Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar in 1842. Every year on the occasion of Independence Day (15th August), the Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag at Red Fort. The museum here has good collection of items depicting the history of Indian freedom movement. In the evening, a sound and light show is held here to describe the glorious history of the fort. Fri, 28 Jan 2011 05:54:15 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/red-fort http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/red-fort Every visit to South India is like travelling to the era of ancient kingdoms. South India is the region where you can see beautiful temples, grand palaces, natural wonders, and much more. Viewing imposing, magnificent temples of South India is always a unique experience, and Meenakshi Temple of Madurai is one to be admired. Meenakshi Temple lies in Madurai, one of the most ancient cities of Tamil Nadu. Also known as “the city of nectar,” Madurai is situated near the bank of the River Vaigai. Meenakshi Temple is the most famous and important landmark of the Madurai, and is dedicated to Meenakshi: the consort of Lord Shiva. According to mythological stories, this is the place where Lord Shiva and Goddess Meenakshi were married to each other. Most of the buildings were constructed between the 12th and 18th centuries, and include two main shrines, a dozen gopurams (an ornate monumental tower at the entrance of a temple), and hundreds of mandapams (hallways), all featuring magnificent sculptures and paintings. The Meenakshi Temple is a living example of the great architectural skills of ancient India. In the 14th century, during the attack of Malik Kafur, the Meenakshi Temple was badly damaged. Soon afterwards, Madurai came under the control of Muslim rulers, and during Muslim rule, the sanctum of Sri Meenakshi Temple remained closed for about fifty years. When Madurai was liberated from Muslim rule, the sanctum was reopened. Stories narrate that when Meenakshi Temple was opened, the devotees present there were stunned to see two burning oil lamps, fresh flowers, and sandalwood paste within the sanctum. Ashta Shakthi Mandapam is the way through which devotes enter the shrine of the Goddess Meenakshi to offer their prayers. The ceiling of this striking structure is hemispherical in shape. The shrine features colourful bas-reliefs all around, with one depicting the marriage of Lord Shiva (or Somasundara) and Meenakshi. Potramaraukulam, or Golden Lotus Tank, is the ancient pool where people enjoy a holy dip. The walls of the pillared corridors all around the pool have pictures and paintings of numerous deities. The Thousand Pillar Mandapam is the most famed building in the complex, and (as you can guess) gets its name from nearly a thousand sculptured pillars (actual count is 985), each being a fine example of Dravidian art. Within this mandapam is a museum with a large collection of paintings, photos, icons, etc., demonstrating the ancient history of the region. Wed, 05 Jan 2011 18:54:42 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/meenakshi-temlpe http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/meenakshi-temlpe Thissur in Kerala, India, is possibly best known for it's annual elephant festival, Thissur Pooram. As one of the biggest festivals in Kerala, it is often called the “pooram of all poorams", or the "meetings of all meetings." Devotees and spectators from all parts of the state make a beeline to the Thissur Pooram festival to enjoy the colourful celebration and ornately decorated elephants. Thrissur Pooram is about 200 years old and was introduced during the reign of Sakthan Thampuran, the Raja of Kochi. The legend behind the annual elephant festival is believed to trace back to a time when neighbouring gods and goddesses met up for a day of celebration. Arriving with an entourage of elephants draped in ornaments, tusks decorated, and a panchavadyam (five piece band), the group would celebrate at a local temple for 36 hours and end the festivities with a grand fireworks display. Over the years Thissur Pooram has evolved into a friendly competition between neighbours: Paramekkavu and Thiruvambadi, which lavishly decorate up to a maximum of fifteen elephants each for display at the festival. Next is the 'Kudamattam', the swift and rhythmic changing of brightly coloured and sequinned parasols with 'Pandimelam', the traditional orchestra. Two lines of caparisoned elephants face each other, each one bearing an umbrella and a peacock fan carrier. When the percussion and wind orchestras standing between the lines reaches a crescendo, the display of umbrellas over the elephants will be changed by the mahouts (the men who drive the elephants). This will continue until the elephants depart at sunset, and many umbrellas of various sizes, shapes, colours and designs will have adorned each elephant. Thrissur's elephant festival draws to a close in the evening and early hours of the next morning amid a mind-blowing fireworks display. In keeping with the competitive spirit, both the Paramekkavu and Thiruvambadi, try to make their fireworks display grander and more colourful than the other. There is no match for the visual splendour of the Thrissur Pooram with its assembly of caparisoned elephants, pyrotechnic displays, and spellbinding ensembles of percussion instruments and enthusiastic crowds. Fri, 05 Nov 2010 21:38:26 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/thrissur-pooram http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/thrissur-pooram Renowned as an exceptional example of Buddhist art and architecture, the Sanchi stupas is a great UNESCO world heritage site in India. The town of Sanchi lies 45 km north of Bhopal in the state of Madhya Pradesh. The stupas of Sanchi (“heaps” containing Buddhist relics) are some of finest and most well preserved structures of ancient India, especially for those interested in Sanchi Buddhist monuments that were constructed between the 3rd century BC and 12th century AD. Sanchi also makes a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site for thousands of Buddhists from all around the world. It is among the few Buddhist sites in India that give visitors an opportunity to see how Buddhist art and architecture originated and prospered in India about 2,000 years ago. The Sanchi stupas are situated on the top of a hill near the small Sanchi village in Raisen, and the stupas are located about 45 km from Bhopal (the capital city of Madhya Pradesh), and about 10 km from Vidisha. There are nearly fifty structures present in this area, which include many different stupas and temples. Buddhist stupas are hemispherical domes made of bricks, and feature a central chamber in which were kept the holy relics of the Buddha. The stupas are surrounded by the toranas (gates) with each one symbolizing love and peace. The Great Stupa at Sanchi is the most prominent and important structure of all the stupas and monuments around this Indian town. Ashoka, one of the great emperors of India, constructed the Great Stupa around the 3rd century BC. It features four carved gateways, and is surrounded by a railing. You can wander the path around the stupa and see the very beautiful motifs and designs made on the four gates. This Great Stupa of Sanchi was enlarged and highly decorated by the kings of the Shunga period. The Sanchi stupas were made to be a symbol of Buddha, much like the wheel of fortune and the bo tree. More precisely, these stupas represented the Parinirvana, meaning the final liberation from the cycles of birth and death. They also represent the cosmos, and the hemisphere of the stupas represents the whole word shaped like an egg, with the summit depicting the axis of the world. You can find a number of symbolic representations of Lord Buddha in the form of footprints and wheels. The various life events of Buddha have been magnificently portrayed on the gateways with the help of sculpture designs. It is believed that during Ashoka’s period, eight stupas and the monolithic pillar were constructed at Sanchi. Many other structures were added in the later centuries during the period of different kings. However, the monuments of Sanchi got ruined with the decline of Buddhism in India, and were completely lost in the pages of history until their rediscovery and restoration by the British in India. General Taylor, a British officer, first discovered these ruins in 1818, and around 1881, restoration work was started under the guidance of Sir John Marshall. This continued for many years and was finally completed in 1919. An archaeological museum was also established here in 1919. Mon, 01 Nov 2010 15:57:40 +0000 http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/sanchi-stupas http://www.thecircumference.org/experiences/sanchi-stupas